Top Breweries in New Brunswick:
A Taste of Local Craft Beer
New Brunswick has quickly become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, with a growing number of breweries offering unique and flavorful brews that reflect the province’s rich culture and diverse ingredients. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, New Brunswick’s craft beer scene has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top breweries in New Brunswick that you definitely should visit for an unforgettable beer experience.
1. Picaroons Traditional Ales (Fredericton)
Arguably the most well-known brewery in New Brunswick, Picaroons Traditional Ales has been brewing craft beer since 1995. Located in Fredericton, Picaroons is a staple in the province’s craft beer scene, offering a wide range of beers that highlight both traditional and modern brewing techniques. Their Picaroons Best Bitter and Celtic Knot Ale are fan favorites, while seasonal and limited-edition releases always offer something new for beer lovers to try. The brewery’s Fredericton Taproom is a great place to sample their beers and enjoy the cozy, local vibe that makes Picaroons a must-visit.
2. Grimross Brewing Co. (Fredericton)
Another gem in Fredericton, Grimross Brewing Co. offers a refined selection of artisanal beers made with quality ingredients and a focus on European-style brewing. Known for their exceptional Belgian-style ales and English-style porters, Grimross creates beers with complexity and flavor. Their flagship beer, Grimross Best Bitter, is a traditional British-style ale that’s rich in malt flavor with a balanced bitterness. The brewery also offers a variety of seasonal releases, making it a great spot for craft beer enthusiasts who enjoy trying new styles and flavors.
3. Big Tide Brewing Co. (Saint John)
Big Tide Brewing Co. in Saint John is known for its laid-back atmosphere and incredible beer offerings. With a focus on bold and hoppy beers, Big Tide has a loyal following and is a local favorite for both residents and visitors. Their Blonde Ale and Hoptical Illusion IPA are especially popular, with the latter being a refreshing and well-balanced IPA that pairs perfectly with pub fare. The brewery’s spacious taproom offers a relaxed spot to sample the beers while enjoying great food and company. Whether you're new to craft beer or a seasoned enthusiast, Big Tide offers something that will excite your taste buds.
4. Saint John Ale Works (Saint John)
Located in the heart of Saint John, Saint John Ale Works is a standout brewery known for its creative and bold beer styles. From IPAs to saisons, the brewery has a diverse range of beers that cater to different tastes. Their Loyalist Lager is an easy-drinking, smooth beer, while their Devil’s Half Acre IPA offers a bold, hoppy punch. Saint John Ale Works is also committed to producing sustainable beers, using local ingredients and minimizing waste in their brewing process. The brewery has a welcoming taproom, where visitors can enjoy flights and find the perfect beer to suit their preferences.
5. Bore City Brewing (Fredericton)
Bore City Brewing in Fredericton brings a unique vibe to the province’s craft beer scene with its innovative and creative beers. Known for their experimental and small-batch brews, Bore City focuses on crafting beers with complex flavors and intriguing ingredients. Popular offerings include the Bore City Black IPA, which combines dark malts with hoppy bitterness, and their seasonal maple-infused brews, which capture the essence of New Brunswick's syrup-producing culture. The brewery’s industrial-style taproom provides a great atmosphere to try out their latest creations.
6. Tire Shack Brewing Co. (Moncton)
Tire Shack Brewing Co. in Moncton has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, flavorful beers in a welcoming, fun environment. Located in a renovated warehouse, Tire Shack’s taproom is a vibrant space for enjoying their craft brews, including their popular Hopstravaganza IPA and Pineapple Express pale ale. With a focus on creativity and high-quality ingredients, Tire Shack Brewing also experiments with unique flavors like fruit-infused beers and barrel-aged brews. If you're in the Moncton area, be sure to stop by their taproom to enjoy their excellent beer and lively atmosphere.
7. Riverview Brewing Co. (Riverview)
In Riverview, just outside of Moncton, Riverview Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery that produces a diverse selection of beers with an emphasis on freshness and quality. Their Riverview IPA and Amber Ale are favorites, known for their balanced profiles and hoppy flavors. The brewery prides itself on crafting beers that reflect the province's agricultural roots, often incorporating locally-sourced ingredients into their brews. Riverview Brewing Co. is also known for their friendly service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot to try something new while enjoying great company.
8. Angry Dragon Brewing Co. (Woodstock)
Located in Woodstock, Angry Dragon Brewing Co. is a brewery with a fun name and even better beers. This family-owned and operated brewery has become known for its bold ales and creative craft beers. With a rotating selection of beers such as their Hazy IPA and Angry Dragon Amber, there's always something new to try. The brewery has a cozy taproom where guests can sample their brews and enjoy a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. For beer lovers looking to explore New Brunswick’s craft beer scene outside of the larger cities, Angry Dragon Brewing is a great hidden gem.
Conclusion
New Brunswick is home to an exciting and diverse craft beer scene, with breweries that showcase everything from traditional ales to bold experimental brews. Whether you’re exploring Fredericton, Saint John, or small towns like Woodstock, there’s no shortage of fantastic breweries to visit. From hop-forward IPAs to smooth stouts, New Brunswick’s craft breweries offer something for every beer enthusiast. So, grab a pint, enjoy the local flavors, and experience the best of New Brunswick’s craft beer culture.
