The Maine Beers You Need to Drink
As someone who drinks for a living, I hear the term “craft brewing” thrown around a lot. These breweries are the real deal and provide a great snapshot of where the state’s beer scene is right now. If the bar or restaurant you’re at doesn’t offer something from at least one of them, move on. **
Courtesy Allagash Brewing1/5Allagash Brewing, Portland
One of Maine’s pioneers in Belgian-style ales, limited edition releases keep them evolving beyond their hugely successful flagship brew, Allagash White. (Credit: Courtesy Allagash Brewing)
2/5Maine Beer Company, Freeport
Maine Beer Company came out of nowhere with its ultra-refreshing Peeper Ale, then went on to produce a fruity, complex IPA called “Lunch” that made beer geeks like me lose their minds. (Credit: Courtesy Maine Beer Company)
3/5Marshall Wharf, Belfast
Instead of focusing on one style, Marshall Wharf masters many, from the aggressive and popular Sexy Chaos vanilla stout to the thirst-quenching summer pour, Umlaut Kolsch. (Credit: Courtesy Marshall Wharf) **
4/5Oxbow Brewing, Newcastle
Specializing in saison-style brews, Oxbow has taken the scene by storm with their anything-goes Freestyle series and sour ales. In you’re near Newcastle, visit them in the woods! (Credit: Randy Harris)
5/5Rising Tide Brewing Company, Portland
Rising Tide is known mostly for bright, flavorful American-style ales. New limited releases like “Tempest,” brewed with local Bard Coffee, have gained an almost cult-like following. (Credit: Courtesy Rising Tide)
