Or should I say “Hoppy” Western Maine breweries?
If you’re a craft beer fan, come imbibe the elixir at six happy Western Maine breweries. Western Maine is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery, rich history, and a burgeoning brewery scene. If you’re staying at Wolf Cove Inn in Poland, Maine, you’re in the perfect spot to explore some fantastic local breweries. Within an easy drive, you can sample unique brews and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Maine’s craft beer culture.
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Tips for Your Brewery Tour
- Plan Ahead: Check each brewery’s hours and whether they require reservations for tours or tastings.
- Taste Responsibly: Many breweries offer flights, allowing you to sample a variety of beers without overindulging.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water between samples can help keep your palate fresh and prevent dehydration.
Explore Local Food Options: Many breweries have food trucks or nearby restaurants that pair perfectly with their beers.
1. Oxbow Beer Garden
📍 Address: 420 Main St, Oxford, ME 04270
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 8 miles
Oxbow Beer Garden is by far our favorite place to go for fun and great beer. I love every beer or sour they have. Honestly, they have one of the best lagers I’ve ever had. Both Nicold and I highly recommend the Oxbow for the drinks and the amazing rustic space that provides a ton of fun activities for all.
The folks there renovated a 200-year-old barn into a restaurant and taproom. They also have an on-site small tasting room features fermentation space used to produce blends for the restaurant.
The beer on tap at the Oxbow Beer Garden is brewed at the main Oxbow Brewery in Newcastle. Oxbow focuses on European-influenced farmhouse ales. Brewing water consists of soft spring water originating from an artesian well adjacent to the brewery. In addition to beer, the restaurant, featuring a wood-fired oven, serves up sourdough pizza as well as seasonal produce and meats.
2. Baxter Brewing Co.
📍 Address: 130 Mill St, Lewiston, ME 04240
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 20 miles
Baxter Brewing Co. is one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in Maine. Located in a historic mill building in Lewiston, Baxter is known for its innovative beers brewed with quality ingredients. Try their flagship “Pawtucket Pale Ale” or “Stowaway IPA.” The brewery offers tours on weekends, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing process.
3. Lone Pine Brewing Company
📍 Address: 8 Houghton St, Portland, ME 04102
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 35 miles
The Lone Pine Brewing Company is known for its hop-forward beers and innovative brews. The brewery’s flagship “Pine Tree Pale Ale” and “Sunkissed” series are local favorites. Enjoy the laid-back vibe of their taproom, often featuring food trucks and live music.
4. Definitive Brewing Company
📍 Address: 35 Alexander Rd, South Portland, ME 04106
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 40 miles
Definitive Brewing is all about the balance between flavor and drinkability. With a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there’s something for everyone. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a sunny afternoon with friends.
5. Sebago Brewing Company
📍 Address: 616 Main St., Gorham, ME
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 25 miles
Sebago Brewing Company is one of the most established breweries in Maine, known for its commitment to sustainability and community. Their flagship “Sebago Pale Ale” and the popular “Lake Trout” amber ale are must-tries. The brewery’s Portland location has a beautiful waterfront view, making it an ideal spot for a beer after a day of exploring.
6. Norway Brewing Company
📍 Address: 237 Main Street, Norway
🚗 Distance from Wolf Cove Inn: Approximately 12 miles
The folks at the Norway Brewing Company are committed to the farm-to-table concept of knowing where your food and ingredients come from. Their goal is to use as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. To that end, they’ve established an extensive network of local farmers and grain and hop growers to provide the raw ingredients for their brews and the food they serve. Some local favorite brews include “Inglorious Bastard”, a farmhouse pale ale, and “Mr. Grumpypants”, an oatmeal stout with coffee.
The Maine Beer Trail
Maine’s craft brew scene extends beyond western Maine. In fact, the Maine Beer Trail invites visitors to explore a vibrant array of state-wide breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Nestled in stunning landscapes, each stop offers unique flavors and crafted beverages. From artisan beers to small-batch spirits, this trail celebrates Maine’s rich culinary heritage, perfect for tasting enthusiasts and scenic adventurers alike.
FAQ: How many breweries are on the Maine beer trail?
- The Maine beer trail has over 100 breweries! When the trail first began, there were only about 25, but that number has grown significantly over the years.
Savoring Maine Breweries
A trip to imbibe in 6 happy western Maine breweries offers not only great beer, but a taste of the local culture and community. From the innovative offerings of Baxter Brewing to the welcoming atmosphere of the Norway Brewing Company, your journey will be filled with new flavors and experiences. So, grab your friends, hop in the car, and set out on a memorable craft beer adventure from Wolf Cove Inn.
Cheers to exploring the best of what western Maine has to offer! Check availability and book your brewery adventure today.
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