July 12, 2014

Best of Birmingham - Breweries



Loosened liquor laws across the state of Alabama led to a jump in local brewmasters creating their own crafts and selling them. Lucky for Julie and I, several breweries have made their homes here in Birmingham. Here are some of the top breweries in the city that are sure to bring out the craft beer lover in all of us.

Cahaba Brewing Company
2616 3rd Avenue South

The Spot: Nestled in the Pepper Place/Lakeview district of Birmingham, Cahaba Brewing Company is an 8000-square-foot brewery and tasting room. This brewery came to be after a group of friends decided to put their combined love of craft brew to use. The group of friends hand-selected their equipment and actually use the equipment originally used by Straight to Ale of Huntsville.

The Brew: Cahaba Brewing Company is home to a wide selection of seasonal, single-hop, jump-in and specialty beers that will suit any taste. Their four core beers are the classics and include American Style Amber Ale, American Style Blonde Ale, American Stout and Indiana Pale Ale.


Good People Brewing Company
114 14th Street South

The Spot: Good People can be found near Birmingham’s Railroad Park, just across the street from Region’s Field (where the Birmingham Barons play). What is more American than a brewery that sold its first keg on Independence Day? The taproom is open from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. daily and starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. You can even bring your own food!

The Brew: Good People brews include five year-round brews, four seasonals, and an occasional one-off. You can find them throughout the state of Alabama and Tennessee if you aren’t able to come in to the taproom.


Avondale Brewing Company
201 41st Street

The Spot: Located in the quaint neighborhood of Avondale, Avondale Brewing Company (ABC) sports rows of lustrous tanks in its taproom. This building holds a unique history, as it has been a fire station, a pharmacy, a bank and even a brothel over the past 100+ years. With a popular courtyard that hosts regular events, patrons enjoy bringing their food from nearby restaurants and enjoying it in the taproom or outside with an ABC beer.

The Brew: Every beer is named after the folklore of Avondale, so as to always carry a unique story. ABC carries a solid selection of Flagship brews and savory seasonals that is sure to satisfy any taste. For the Auburn fans, don’t be surprised by the elephant references. Avondale’s slogan is “Trunks Up!”


Carrigan’s Public House
2434 Morris Avenue

The Spot: While not necessarily a “brewery,” Carrigan’s is the ideal spot for anyone from young professional to seasoned retiree, Carrigan’s includes not only a nice selection of craft brews but also specialty cocktails, wine and food. Originally Birmingham’s Blackwell Building, Carrigan’s exterior includes aesthetically unique exposed pipes and both patio and rooftop seating. I recommend the loaded fries – make sure you have a napkin!

The Brew: While Carrigan’s does not brew their own beer, they do include a wide selection of craft beers and local beers. Their full liquor bar makes them unique with an emphasis on Bourbon, Scotch or Whiskey. Make sure to try one of their signature Craft Cocktails for a true taste of Carrigan’s!

No comments:

Post a Comment