According to the Oregon Public Broadcasting Documentary, Oregon Experience: Beervana, "Portland is the beer capital of the world." With humble roots as a refreshing drink for miners and lumberjacks, Portland's affinity for a good brew has evolved into a burgeoning craft beer movement since the early 1980s. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPA's or a nice smooth Porter, there are multiple breweries in town that will definitely have your favorite on tap. What better way to experience the movement than by tasting a few pints for yourself?
BridgePort Brewing Co.
BridgePort stands as Oregon's oldest craft brewery with the introduction of the BridgePort Ale in 1984. Their award-winning beers range from the hoppy India Pale Ale and Blue Heron to the maltier Rope Walk and Porter. It would also be a shame to visit BridgePort without sampling the English-style ESB Ale. BridgePort's Brew Pub is located at 1313 NW Marshall Street in the Pearl District. The Ale House is located on the other side of the river at 3632 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Widmer Brothers
The Widmer Brothers brewery was founded in 1984 and has been brewing American and European style beer for over 25 years. Located on Portland's east side, the brewery is the perfect destination for an excellent beer tour and sampling. A few of their regular beers on tap include the Widmer Hefeweizen and Drop Top Amber. If you're feeling adventurous, Widmer seasonals are always an excellent choice. Widmer Brothers Brewery is located at 929 N. Russell Street, just a short walk from the Albina/Mississippi MAX stop on the Yellow Line.
Rogue Ales
The first Rogue Ales was located in Ashalnd, OR and released the first two brews, Amber and Gold, in 1989. Rogue has since expanded across Oregon to include the Portland Public House and Distillery, among others. With over thirty varieties of ale, choosing just one or two might be a tough decision. However, each beer is crafted with the finest ingredients and free range coastal water. The Chipotle Ale, brewed with roasted chipotle chilis, packs a punch. Dad's Little Helper malt liquor, on the other hand, is a refreshing treat. The Rogue Distillery & Public House is located in the Pearl District at 1339 NW Flanders Street.
Laurelwood Brewing Co.
Laurelwood began brewing Oregon's first certified organic beers and won the Champion Brewery Award in the 2004 World Beer Cup. Their solid selection of beer on tap, both at the northeast and northwest Public House locations, guarantees that you'll find a favorite. For the beginner, the Mother Lode Golden Ale is a crisp and refreshing light beer that is perfect for a hot summer day. For the more seasoned beer drinker, try the Organic Free Range Red or the Workhorse IPA. Laurelwood also excels in the kitchen, so don't hesitate to try an order of fish and chips with your brew. Laurelwood Brewing Co.'s Public House and Brewery is at 5115 NE Sandy Blvd. The NW Public House is located in the Alphabet District at 2327 NW Kearney Street.
McMenamins Pubs
The McMenamin brothers opened their first pub in 1974 and haven't stopped since. The McMenamins name is quite common throughout the Portland area with multiple pubs, hotels, and restaurants. The company's motto, "Be wary of things too formal, too complicated and too orthodox," is certainly conveyed at all of their locations with fun, comfortable interiors and good food and beverages. The classic Ruby, a crisp wheat beer brewed with raspberries is a perfect light choice, while the medium-bodied Hammerhead and dark Terminator Stout are more hearty and always on tap. The Rams Head at 2282 NW Hoyt Street is just one of many of McMenamins pubs in the greater Portland area.
