Finding Cincinnati’s Best Craft Brews
Beer and baseball seem to go hand in hand.
No matter who is playing, if you’re watching a baseball game at any ball park, you will see more people than not with a cold brew in their hand.
Cincinnati is no different.
And if you are a Cincinnati Red’s fan, we have found some great places to hang out either before or after the game.
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait for a ball game to imbibe on some fantastic beers.
There are plenty of places around Cincinnati that offer amazing craft beers by the bottle or on tap.
With such a wide selection to choose from, there is sure to be one that will please everyone in your group.
Rhinegeist Brewery
With a touch of history, the Rhinegeist Brewery is located in a massive old factory that used to make parts for the old Model T Fords.
Don’t let the location turn you off, as it is located in one of the more run down parts of Cincinnati.
Once you climb the four flights of stairs, you will find yourself in a huge open-air warehouse space.
The tap room itself is off to the corner with tables and a TV.
Some of the highest-rated beers offered by the Rhinegeist Brewery include the Rhinegeist Truth, with a rating of 97, and the Rhinegeist Saber Tooth Tiger, rated at 96.
The Rhinegeist Truth is hopped intensely with Amarillo, Citra, Simcoe, and Centennial hops and has fruity notes of passion fruit, peach, and mango.
If you’re looking for something so good it comes only a few times a year, the Rhinegeist Saber Tooth Tiger is what you’re looking for. This beer is an Imperial IPA and is strongly hopped thanks to the Bravo, Simcoe, Citra, and Amarillo hops used in its magnificent creation.
Fifty West Brewing Company
Timing is everything with this brewpub.
It happens to be one of the most popular stops for beer lovers in Cincinnati, so you should plan to visit when it isn’t ridiculously packed.
Their popularity stems from their vast selection of beers as well as their quick and friendly staff and cozy atmosphere.
Fifty West Brewing Company’s highest rated-beer is the Fat Heads Hop JuJu Imperial IPA with an impressive rating of 100.
However, be sure to try the creatively named Spoatieoatiedopaliscious pale ale that combines oatmeal and multihead hops that gives off an apricot aroma.
This was so popular it actually won first place in the brewing company’s Cannonball competition.
Dutch’s Bar & Bottle Shop
There is a reason this place is number one on RateBeer.com.
Dutch’s Bar & Bottle Shop has recently added an additional 10 taps and indoor and outdoor dining, all while remaining true to their original love of beer.
Their loyal fan base speaks highly of their incredible selection of beers as well as their amazing food options.
The beer store opens out to the sidewalk, which easily grabs the attention of all those passing by.
One of the favorites offered by Dutch’s would be the Mikkeller X-mas Porter 2012 Fra Til Via. With an overall rating of 98, you will be able to see why everyone loves it so much. The dark, almost black pour, along with the large tan head, this beer boasts of a delicious dark chocolate and toasted malt aroma and flavor.
Another must-try option would be the Carnegie Special 175th Anniversary Porter with its heavenly sweet sugary aroma and vanilla and dark chocolate bitter aftertaste. This option is definitely worth its own overall rating of 98.
Whether you are coming to Cincinnati for a baseball game at the iconic Great American Ball Park, or just to play tourist around the city, take some time out of your trip to visit these amazing brew pubs and beer stores. They offer plenty of options to satisfy everyone’s love of this magnificent malted beverage.
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Photo: Flickr – Joakim Westerlund