Best Breweries in Charlotte: The Ultimate Guide to Local Brews
Charlotte is quickly becoming one of the most exciting craft beer destinations in the Southeast. With its incredible blend of traditional breweries and innovative new spots, the Queen City is serving up some of the best brews you'll find anywhere. Whether you're a die-hard hophead or just looking for a great place to grab a cold one, these top breweries are a must-visit. From bold IPAs to smooth stouts, here’s your ultimate guide to the best breweries in Charlotte. So grab your pint glass, take a seat, and get ready to explore Charlotte’s brewing scene!
Hiwire Brewing
Hiwire Brewing is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and vibrant atmosphere paired with exceptional beers. Their flagship beer, Citraquench'l IPA, is an explosion of tropical citrus with a smooth, balanced bitterness that keeps you coming back for more. For something a bit lighter, try Gose the Extra Mile, a tart and refreshing German-style sour with a zesty lime kick. With locations in both South End and North End, Hiwire Brewing is known for its welcoming vibe, spacious taprooms, and a solid lineup of both traditional and experimental brews. If you're a fan of creative flavors, Hiwire is a spot you won't want to miss!
Legion Brewing Company
Legion Brewing Company is one of the trendiest spots in Charlotte, with a great mix of delicious beers and a lively atmosphere. Known for their unique takes on traditional styles, Legion Brewing's The Poet oatmeal stout is a rich, creamy beer with roasted coffee flavors and a smooth finish. For something on the lighter side, their Citrus Wheat is a refreshing, citrus-infused wheat beer that’s perfect for a sunny day in Charlotte. Whether you're sipping on a cold one inside their taproom or out on the sunny patio, Legion Brewing is a fun spot for any beer lover.
Divine Barrel Brewing
If you’re looking for beers that push the boundaries of creativity, Divine Barrel Brewing is the place to go. Known for its experimental and unique brews, Divine Barrel focuses on innovative styles that are hard to find anywhere else. Their Hazy IPA is a crowd favorite, packed with juicy citrus and tropical fruit notes that burst with every sip. For those who love a more adventurous brew, try their Tart and Tasty series—a line of fruited sours that are tart, refreshing, and loaded with bold flavors. Divine Barrel’s welcoming atmosphere and one-of-a-kind beers make it a standout on the Charlotte beer scene.
Wooden Robot Brewery
Wooden Robot Brewery is a local gem that perfectly blends innovation with traditional European brewing techniques. This brewery is known for its quality Belgian-style brews as well as its hop-forward American IPAs. One of their most popular offerings is Robot Juice IPA, a smooth and juicy IPA with a tropical flavor profile that has made it a fan favorite. For something a little lighter, the Pale Ale offers a crisp, refreshing balance of hops and malt. With its cozy taproom and expansive outdoor seating, Wooden Robot is the perfect place to enjoy a craft beer while soaking in the charm of Charlotte’s South End neighborhood.
Resident Culture Brewing
Resident Culture Brewing is all about crafting beers that are as unique as the city they call home. Known for their experimental ales, Resident Culture delivers exciting flavors with each pour. A top pick here is the Flowering Citrus IPA, which combines citrus hops with floral notes for a bright and refreshing experience. Another standout is Old Gods, a rich and malty imperial stout that’s perfect for cooler evenings. The brewery has a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a craft beer with a little bit of everything.
Sycamore Brewing
Sycamore Brewing is the go-to spot if you’re looking for a fun and vibrant atmosphere to sip on some seriously tasty beers. This brewery blends creativity with tradition, offering a variety of unique and flavorful brews. One of their fan favorites is Mountain Candy IPA, a juicy, tropical beer with a burst of citrus and pine flavors. If you're in the mood for something different, check out their The Southern Girl Berliner Weisse, a tart and fruity wheat beer perfect for those warm Charlotte afternoons. With its spacious taproom, pet-friendly outdoor area, and rotating seasonal offerings, Sycamore Brewing is a great place to spend an afternoon.
Monday Night Brewing
A staple in the Charlotte craft beer scene, Monday Night Brewing brings a mix of classic styles and bold new flavors to the table. Their flagship beer, Atlanta IPA, has a perfect balance of hop bitterness and floral notes that makes it a go-to for IPA lovers. For those looking for something a little more indulgent, try the Drafty Kilt Scotch Ale, a rich, malty beer with flavors of caramel, toffee, and dark fruit. Monday Night Brewing is all about community, and their Charlotte taproom provides a welcoming, lively spot for beer lovers to enjoy a drink with friends.
Charlotte is truly a beer lover's paradise, with a wide range of breweries that offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer classic styles or bold, experimental brews, there’s a spot for you in this vibrant city. So next time you're in Charlotte, make sure to check out these incredible breweries and raise a glass to the Queen City's ever-growing craft beer scene!
