Sipping Through Bluff City: A Guide to Memphis Breweries
Memphis is more than just the birthplace of blues and home to world-famous barbecue. It’s also a vibrant craft beer destination with breweries that embody the city’s unique character. Whether you’re a hophead, a stout lover, or just curious about craft beer, this guide will take you on a flavorful journey through the best breweries Memphis has to offer.
Wiseacre Brewing Company
Locations: Broad Avenue & Downtown
Website: www.wiseacrebrew.com
Wiseacre is a cornerstone of the Memphis craft beer scene. Their flagship taproom on Broad Avenue is an industrial-chic space perfect for relaxing with friends.
Must-Try Brews:
Gotta Get Up to Get Down: A silky coffee milk stout that’s perfect for stout enthusiasts.
Tiny Bomb: A crisp, refreshing American Pilsner, hailed as one of the best pilsners in the country.
Pro Tip: Visit the Downtown location for a larger space and proximity to attractions like the Mississippi River.
Memphis Made Brewing Co.
Location: Cooper-Young
Website: www.memphismadebrewing.com
Located in the heart of the vibrant Cooper-Young district, Memphis Made offers a laid-back vibe with rotating seasonal beers and crowd favorites.
Must-Try Brews:
Junt: A juicy pale ale with a balanced hop profile.
Fireside: A toasty amber ale that’s great for cooler weather.
Pro Tip: Check out their events calendar for trivia nights and live music.
Ghost River Brewing Co.
Location: Downtown
Website: www.ghostriverbrewing.com
Ghost River is named after the Ghost River section of the Wolf River, which supplies Memphis with its famous aquifer water—a key ingredient in their beers. Their Downtown taproom features a spacious patio and frequent live music.
Must-Try Brews:
Golden Ale: A light, approachable beer perfect for any palate.
Zippin Pippin: A pale ale named after Elvis Presley’s favorite roller coaster.
Pro Tip: Pair your pint with food from local food trucks parked onsite.
High Cotton Brewing Co.
Location: North Midtown
Website: www.highcottonbrewing.com
High Cotton embraces traditional brewing methods, offering a cozy taproom with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Must-Try Brews:
ESB (Extra Special Bitter): A classic English-style ale with balanced malt and hops.
Scottish Ale: A malty, caramel-forward beer with a smooth finish.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss their Sunday "Pints and Pups" event—perfect for dog lovers!
Crosstown Brewing Co.
Location: Crosstown Concourse
Website: www.crosstownbeer.com
Nestled in the iconic Crosstown Concourse, Crosstown Brewing offers a modern, airy taproom with a variety of beers to suit every taste.
Must-Try Brews:
Traffic: A citrusy IPA with bold hop flavors.
Sir Isaac: A fig-infused ale that’s both unique and delicious.
Pro Tip: Explore the Concourse’s many shops and galleries before or after your visit.
Boscos Squared
Location: Overton Square
Website: www.boscosbeer.com
While technically a brewpub, Boscos deserves a spot on this list for its long-standing contribution to Memphis’ beer scene. Their wood-fired pizzas make the perfect pairing for their handcrafted brews.
Must-Try Brews:
Flaming Stone: A smooth, malt-forward amber brewed using hot stones.
Isle of Skye Scottish Ale: A robust, flavorful beer with a rich history.
Pro Tip: Visit during happy hour for great deals on both beer and food.
Bonus Stops for Beer Lovers
Hampline Brewing (Highland Strip): Small-batch brews with experimental flavors.
Website: www.hamplinebrewing.comBlues City Brewery (Location): Known for contract brewing but worth a visit for a glimpse into large-scale beer production.
Website: www.bluescitybrewery.com
Tips for Brewery Hopping in Memphis
Stay Safe: Use rideshare apps or a designated driver if you plan to visit multiple breweries.
Hydrate and Eat: Many breweries partner with local food trucks, so grab a bite between tastings.
Check Events: Breweries often host live music, trivia, and other events that add to the fun.
With its thriving craft beer culture, Memphis offers a brewery experience that’s as soulful and diverse as the city itself. Cheers to exploring Bluff City, one pint at a time!