There’s nothing quite like enjoying an ice-cold beer on the patio of your favorite local pub with your friends and family.
Whether you’re looking to take a day trip with the kids or planning an evening out with some of your closest pals, here are ten great breweries in the Capital Region to check out. And if you’re hungry, grab some food along with your brew—most of these locations serve delicious bar eats that pair well with their signature beers!
1. Druthers Brewing Company
Druthers Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery located in the Capital Region of New York. The company was founded in 2012 by Chirs Martell, passionate about brewing high-quality beer.
Druthers brew various beer styles, including stouts, IPAs, and sours. It also offers a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-release beers. In addition to its flagship Albany taproom, Druthers has pubs in Saratoga Springs and Schenectady.
The company also operates a wholesale business, distributing its beer to bars, restaurants, and regional retailers.
Druthers is committed to using high-quality ingredients and local fruits and grains in its beers. The brewery also partners with local farmers and purveyors to source ingredients for its food menu.
Druthers beers are available in cans and kegs and can also be enjoyed at the brewery’s three taprooms.
2. Artisanal Brew Works
Artisanal Brew Works is a restaurant in Saratoga Springs, Capital Region of New York State that specializes in locally sourced, seasonal food.
The menu changes regularly to reflect what is freshest and most available. Some famous dishes include roasted chicken with preserved lemon and garlic, seared scallops with pancetta and sage, and slow-cooked pork shoulder with fennel and apple.
The restaurant also features an extensive wine list with local and international options. And for those who prefer not to drink alcohol, a variety of non-alcoholic beverages are available, including artisanal sodas, fresh-pressed juices, and handcrafted coffees.
Make sure to try their Double Dry Hopped IPA- to get the knack of apricot tanginess!
Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a multi-course feast, Artisanal Brew Works is sure to have something to satisfy your appetite.
3. Fort Orange Brewing
Fort Orange Brewing is a brewery located in Albany, New York. The brewery was founded in 2017 by two friends who shared a passion for craft beer. Since then, the brewery has become known for its unique spin on traditional beer styles.
The brewery’s flagship beer is its Fort Orange IPA, with rich citrus and a crisp finish.
Other popular beers from Fort Orange Brewing include Fortitude #9, which has a dominating peach, pineapple, and melon flavor.
In addition to its delicious beer, Fort Orange Brewing also offers a food menu with items such as pretzels, wings, and burgers.
Whether you’re looking for a great meal or a nice cold beer, Fort Orange Brewing is the perfect place.
4. Unified Beerworks
Nestled in the heart of New York’s Capital Region, Unified Beerworks is a family-owned brewery crafting high-quality beer since 2018.
Founded by Husband and Wife Jeff Mannion and Erika Anderson, the brewery has become a staple of the local community, known for its delicious brews and friendly staff.
In addition to its Flagship IPA and seasonal offerings, Unified Beerworks also offers a rotating selection of limited-release beers, allowing fans to try something new with each visit. Try itsThe Thron Of Odin, which has a tropical hint.
Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun place to relax with friends, Unified Beerworks is the perfect destination. So come on down and enjoy a pint or two! You won’t be disappointed.
5. Browns Brewing Company
Browns Brewing Company is a local brewery in Troy, New York, specializing in handcrafted ales and lagers. Founded in 1993 by Garry Brown, the brewery has won numerous awards for its beer, including a gold medal at the World Beer Cup in 2004.
Browns Brewing Company’s beer is available on tap at their brewpub in Troy and select retailers in New York State. The brewery also offers tours of its facility, which includes a 10-barrel brewhouse, fermentation cellar, and taproom.
Brown’s Brewing Company is committed to producing high-quality beer and supporting the local community. Do not forget to try their famous Oatmeal Stout.
If you’re looking for a great local beer, check out Browns Brewing Company!
6. Rare Form Brewing
Rare Form Brewing is a local Troy, New York brewery that started in 2014. The husband and wife team of Kevin Mullen and Jen Kozek had a dream to create their own brewing company, and they did just that.
Troy’s Rare Form Brewing is known for its famous Freshy Hoppy Lager. The beer is brewed with a mix of fresh and dry hops, giving it a unique flavor that has made it a favorite among locals.
The brewery also offers a variety of other beers, including a porter, stout, and IPA. In addition to its signature lager, Rare Form Brewing also offers a variety of seasonal beers, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cold one all year round.
Whether you’re looking for a summertime refresher or a winter warming ale, Rare Form Brewing has something to suit your taste.
7. Mad Jack Brewing Company
Mad Jack Brewing Company is a local brewery in Schenectady, New York, that specializes in original craft beer. The brewery was founded in the 1990s by Mac Rankin and Jack Schropp. Since then, Mad Jack has become known for its inventive and flavorful brews.
The brewery’s flagship beer is the Pinhead Pilsner. Other popular beers include the Mountaintop IPA, a hazy and juicy New England-style IPA, and the Honeybadger Stout, a rich and chocolatey stout brewed with honey.
In addition to its year-round offerings, Mad Jack also produces seasonal and limited-edition beers throughout the year.
Whether you’re a beer lover or simply looking to support local businesses, Mad Jack Brewing Company is worth checking out.
Wrapping Up!
So, if you want to find some of the best breweries in Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs, and other parts of New York’s capital region, then don’t hesitate to select from the list above! Grab your friends and head out for a day of craft beer exploration.