Brewing: A Craft with Deep Roots in Cincinnati
Historically, Cincinnati’s beer brewing culture not only started before it was even a city, but it was also once the beer capital of the world before Prohibition laws took effect. The Queen City has a long, frothy, and hop-filled history with brewing that continues to this vibrant day with an impressive selection of microbreweries.
Navigating Cincinnati’s Beer Scene
Armed with a thirst for craft beers and a sense of adventure, we set out to explore the top breweries that are redefining Cincinnati’s beer legacy. Buckle up, and let’s embark on this brew-tiful adventure.
Rhinegeist Brewery
Resurrecting Cincinnati’s Brewing History
Located in the historic Over-The-Rhine district, Rhinegeist Brewery is arguably the most recognized name in Cincinnati’s beer scene today. Resting in an old bottling plant from the late 1800s, this bustling brewery is a testament to Cincinnati’s rich brewing history, employing 21st-century techniques to innovative, flavorful beers.
MadTree Brewing Co.
Where Friendship and Beer Meet
This Oakley brewery has been a hub for beer enthusiasts since 2013 due to their excellent brews and inviting atmosphere. MadTree Brewing Co. combines the warmth of a neighborhood pub with the excitement of a top-notch brewery, creating a unique, welcoming experience for all visitors. After a few carefully-crafted pints, it’s not hard to see why MadTree has grown to be a Cincinnati favorite.
Fifty West Brewing Company
Beer with a Side of Adventure
Located on Route 50, hence the name, Fifty West Brewing Company takes the craft beer experience to a whole new level. It’s not just the variety of brews that makes this brewery a standout but also its ability to pair the beer tasting experience with outdoor adventures, from volleyball to canoeing. It’s a match truly made in Cincinnati.
Taft’s Ale House
A Tasty Salute to History
Named in honor of Cincinnati’s own 27th President, William Howard Taft, Taft’s Ale House serves beer in a beautifully restored church from the 19th century. With a perfect balance between its historical ambiance and bold flavors of craft ales, it has become a brew hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
Christian Moerlein Brewing Co.
Staying True to German Roots
One cannot talk about Cincinnati breweries without mentioning Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. Known for their authentic, high-quality craft beers, Moerlein keeps Cincinnati’s German brewing history alive and well. The brewery’s lagers and ales hark back to tradition while incorporating contemporary flavors, making it a must-visit for beer lovers.
A City A-Buzz with Breweries
From well-established names like Rhinegeist and Christian Moerlein to the promising newcomers, the brewery scene in Cincinnati is more alive than ever. So next time you’re in the Queen City, make sure to raise a glass (or two) to its undying spirit of production, community, and, of course, fantastic beer.
This article presents a beautiful journey through Cincinnati’s rich brewing history and its modern evolution. The text dives into how deeply the brewing craft is embedded in Cincinnati, once known as the beer capital of the world, and how it continues to thrive today. It provides an engaging ride through the city’s vibrant beer scene, with features on notable breweries like Rhinegeist and MadTree Brewing Co., demonstrating how they contribute to this lively legacy. It’s a must-read for beer lovers and history buffs alike.