Portland, Maine Breweries: Exploring the Best New England Craft Beer

Discover the vibrant craft beer scene in Portland, Maine with our guide to the best breweries in this famed New England city. From classic IPAs to unique sours, this coastal city has something for every beer lover.

March 11, 2024

Embark on a beer journey in Portland, Maine, where the thriving brewery scene mirrors the city's eclectic charm. Nestled in the heart of New England, Portland boasts a dynamic array of craft breweries, each with unique flavors and stories. From hop-forward ales to rich stouts, this coastal city is a haven for beer enthusiasts.

Here, we will cover a brief history of the city's brewing past, a comprehensive list of Portland breweries, and a detailed review of the 10 best Breweries in Portland, Maine including each brewery’s address, location, operation hours, website, history, awards, signature beer styles, taprooms, ambiance, foods on the menu and mor. Enjoy, and cheers to the spirited taste of New England!

History and Overview of Beer and Brewing in Portland

Portland, Maine's brewing legacy is a tale woven into the city's history. In the 1800s, Portland's streets echoed with the clinking of beer mugs as brewing became a cornerstone of local culture.

Historically, Prohibition cast a long shadow over the city's beer industry. In fact, Portland was the origin of the Temperance movement. Nevertheless, Portland's beer brewing spirit endured. The late 20th century witnessed a revival and marked the onset of a craft beer renaissance in Maine. Numerous microbreweries and brewpubs proliferated, bringing diverse flavors to discerning palates.

Pioneering establishments laid the foundation, and today, Portland stands as a brewing mecca within New England. This resurgence resurrected old traditions and fostered a culture of innovation which brewers used to experiment with diverse styles, ingredients and techniques.

As you navigate the city's streets, the aromas of hops and malt tell the story of Portland's enduring love affair with beer. The city invites enthusiasts to savor its rich brewing heritage and the contemporary creativity that defines its thriving beer culture.

Breweries Located in Portland, Maine

Venture into the heart of Portland, Maine, and discover a mosaic of breweries, which paint the city's landscape with diverse flavors. Let’s explore the breweries that form the backbone of Portland's vibrant and ever-evolving beer scene.

10 of the Best Breweries in Portland, Maine

Portland boasts a rich tapestry of breweries that cater to all palates within cutting-edge taprooms that push the boundaries of flavor.

Now let's explore 10 of the top breweries that have left their mark on Portland's brewing landscape based on a number of factors as well as customer ratings from Untappd.

1. Allagash Brewing Company

Established in 1995, Allagash Brewing Company is one of the pioneering forces in the American craft beer scene. Founder Rob Tod's passion for Belgian-style beers inspired the brewery's inception in Portland, Maine.

Allagash gained acclaim for its commitment to traditional brewing methods, including open fermentation and oak aging, which resulted in a distinctive flavor profile.

Over the years, the brewery has received numerous awards, notably the 2010 World Beer Cup for Best Belgian-Style Tripel and, the Brewery of the Year award at the Great American Beer Festical in 2021 and 2023.

With a dedication to quality, creativity and sustainability, Allagash continues to push boundaries and redefine the craft beer landscape to hold its place as an industry leader.

Overall Rating: ⭐3.87
Total Ratings: 1,449,921
Number of Beers Rated: 168
Address: 50, Industrial Way, Portland, ME, 04103
Operation Hours: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Website: Allagash Brewing Company

Notable Beers Released by Allagash Brewing Company

Allagash White: The brewery's flagship beer, a Belgian-style wheat beer with a refreshing blend of spices, citrus and a smooth, hazy finish.
Curieux: A unique offering, Curieux is a bourbon barrel-aged Tripel that infuses rich vanilla and oak flavors which adds depth to the traditional Belgian style.
Coolship Resurgam: A tribute to traditional Belgian Lambics, this spontaneously fermented ale showcases complex, tart, and funky notes, a result of Allagash's commitment to traditional brewing methods.
Fluxus: An annual release, Fluxus is a rotating series that features experimental and diverse ingredients to provide beer enthusiasts with a taste of Allagash's creativity.
Saison: Allagash's take on the classic farmhouse ale, this beer balances fruity, spicy, and earthy notes to deliver a crisp and refreshing experience.
St. Klippenstein: A rich and robust Belgian-style stout, aged in bourbon barrels, that offers layers of chocolate, vanilla, and roasted malt complexities.

Tasting Rooms and Events

Allagash Brewing's tasting room at 50 Industrial Way stands out as a unique haven for beer enthusiasts. This exclusive space boasts an extensive array of signature brews including the hop-rich IPA, Trippel Golden Ale, Allagash White and barrel-aged cider, elevating the experience with diverse culinary offerings.

From delectable lobster rolls to savory pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, caprese and grilled cheese, the tasting room provides a gastronomic journey to complement the exceptional brews.

Beyond the libations and culinary delights, Allagash Brewing offers a range of immersive events including brewery tours, guided tastings, exclusive beer releases and private gatherings to ensure a dynamic and engaging experience for all patrons.

2. Bissell Brothers Brewing Company

Founded in 2013 by brothers Noah and Peter Bissell, Bissell Brothers Brewing has become an influential force in the craft beer industry. Originating in Portland, Maine, the brewery has crafted a compelling history marked by a commitment to quality, innovation and community engagement.

With a portfolio of a diverse range of beer styles, Bissell Brothers has earned widespread acclaim for its exceptional brews, and it has garnered prestigious awards,including the Chamber Business of the Year in 2023, which underscores its dedication to brewing excellence.

The brothers' visionary approach to brewing, coupled with a keen sense of tradition, has positioned Bissell Brothers as a beacon in the craft beer world. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a revered institution, the brewery's story is one of passion, craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of brewing perfection.

Overall Rating: ⭐4.16
Total Ratings: 521,400
Number of Beers Rated: 164
Address: 38, Resurgam Place Portland, ME 04102
Operation Hours: 11 AM to 8-11 PM
Website: Bissell Brothers

Notable Beers Released by Bissell Brothers

Swish: The iconic Swish is a Double IPA by Bissell Brothers where a bold hop profile harmoniously dances with balanced bitterness.
The Substance: Bissell Brothers' flagship American IPA is celebrated for its exceptional drinkability and a burst of citrus-forward flavors that tantalize the palate.
Reciprocal: An example of the exquisite world of barrel-aged beers which is a testament to Bissell Brothers' mastery in offering a complex and rich drinking experience.
LUX: A popular Pale Ale by Bissell Brothers which embodies a refined balance of hop intricacies and offers a palate-pleasing experience with its crisp demeanor.
Umbra: Within the realm of stouts, Bissell Brothers presents Umbra, a robust and velvety exploration that delves into the profound depths of dark malts.

Taprooms, Food and Events

Bissell Brothers extends warm hospitality through two distinct taprooms with plenty of high-quality beer on tap. These locations are strategically located in Portland and Three Rivers. These spaces provide beer enthusiasts with a curated selection of the brewery's renowned creations including Substance, Swish, Lucky, Reciprocal, Precept, Fire Road and more.

Both taprooms feature an extensive menu that showcases a diverse range of foods including signature sandwiches, wings, fries and non-beer beverages alongside a kid’s menu. The culinary offerings complement the brewery's exceptional beer selection to ensure a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Bissell Brothers also arranges an impressive number of unique events hosted at both taprooms, which include public and private gatherings for beer releases, cocktails and exclusive in-taproom events. Notably, while the Portland taproom accommodates private events, the Three Rivers taproom does not host private gatherings.

3. Battery Steele Brewing

Founded in 2015 within a South Portland barn, Battery Steele Brewing's humble origins marked the inception of a pursuit for brewing perfection.

Initially crafting the signature Flume Double IPA, the brewery has since expanded its repertoire and earned the loyalty of patrons at the original taproom on Industrial Way in Portland and the Kitchen+Bar in Wells.

The Wells-based Kitchen and Bar, nestled near the beach, elevates the culinary experience, which emphasizes its partnerships with local farmers for the freshest ingredients.

With a commitment to excellence, Battery Steele Brewing has become a revered name in Maine's craft beer and culinary scene.

Overall Rating: ⭐4.05
Total Ratings: 123,219
Number of Beers Rated: 109
Address: 1 Industrial Way, Portland, Maine
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Website: Battery Steele Brewing

Notable Beers Released by Battery Steele Brewing

Flume Double IPA: Battery Steele Brewing's flagship beer, the Flume Double IPA exemplifies brewing excellence with a perfect balance of hop intricacies, leaving a lasting impression on beer enthusiasts.
Avalon: A captivating creation from Battery Steele Brewing, Avalon IPA presents a nuanced tapestry of flavors that define the brewery's commitment to exceptional brewing.
Golden Path: A refined expression of brewing artistry, Golden Path by Battery Steele Brewing is a Pilsner that invites enthusiasts to traverse a palate path of golden hues and exceptional flavors.
Firn: A Pale Ale from Battery Steele Brewing, which beckons discerning palates into a realm of crisp refreshment and balanced complexity.
Looming Illusion: Looming Illusion unfolds as a symphony of tropical delights — mango, pineapple, coconut, orange, and vanilla harmoniously blended by Battery Steele Brewing.

Taprooms and Events

Battery Steele Brewing operates its only taproom in Portland, exuding a welcoming ambiance with carefully selected brews that encapsulate the essence of craftsmanship.

Additionally, the brewery offers distinguished events through its taproom. Every Monday to Friday, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, patrons can partake in a delightful Happy Hour where the air is filled with camaraderie with offerings showcasing their brewing excellence.

Wednesday nights transform the brewery into a cinematic oasis called Movie Night, offering a curated selection of films that pair harmoniously with their artisanal brews. This unique midweek experience of Battery Steele Brewing creates an atmosphere of relaxation and shared enjoyment.

For those seeking a distinctive venue, Battery Steele Brewing extends its space for private events. The taproom, with its rustic charm and industrial chic aesthetics, serves as an ideal backdrop for corporate functions, birthdays and special occasions.

4. Austin Street Brewery

Established in 2014 by two brothers Jake and Will Austin, this Portland-based brewery has carved its niche by focusing on quality and innovation.

Inspired by both traditional and modern brewing techniques, the Austin Street Brewery has garnered recognition for its diverse lineup of beers. Awards, including prestigious accolades at events like the Great American Beer Festival, underline their commitment to excellence.

Austin Street Brewery's rich history continues to unfold and solidify its reputation as a leading player in the vibrant and ever-evolving craft beer landscape of Portland, Maine.

Overall Rating: ⭐3.95
Total Ratings: 125,756
Number of Beers Rated: 86
Address: 1, Industrial Way, #8 Portland, ME 04103
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Varies)
Website: Austin Street Brewery

Notable Beers Released by Austin Street Brewery

Patina Pale Ale: A flagship beer of Austin Street Brewery, known for its balanced hop character, this American Pale Ale showcases a blend of citrus and floral notes with a crisp finish.
Six Grain Milk Stout: This velvety and rich milk stout features a complex malt profile including six different grains to deliver layers of chocolate, coffee, and caramel flavors.
Continuum IPA: An approachable and well-balanced India Pale Ale, Continuum boasts a harmonious blend of hop bitterness and citrusy hop aromas.
Obelisk Double IPA: This bold and hop-forward Double IPA offers an explosion of tropical fruit and pine resin flavors to provide a robust and satisfying experience.
Duncan Vienna Lager: A Vienna-style Lager characterized by its smooth maltiness, subtle caramel notes, and clean finish.

Taprooms, Food and Events

Austin Street Brewery allows guests to explore its two vibrant taprooms situated on Fox Street and Industrial Way to offer a dynamic setting to savor their finely crafted beers.

Additionally, the brewery offers an array of snacks including their signature Deep River chips and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages to complement the diverse beer offerings.

Among the brews, enthusiasts can enjoy classics such as Patina and Original Maine Ale alongside unique offerings like the Pilot series and Fair Fight, among others.

Adding to the social ambiance, Austin Street Brewery hosts engaging events like Trivia nights and live music events to provide an immersive experience that extends beyond their exceptional craft brews.

5. Foundation Brewing Company

Foundation Brewing Company was founded in 2013 and has established itself as a prominent player in the beer industry of Maine. Co-founders Joel Mahaffey and John Bonney merged their passion for brewing and love of Belgian-style beers to create a brewery dedicated to innovation and superior beer.

Embracing a farmhouse-style approach, Foundation Brewing has gathered acclaim for its diverse and flavorful beer offerings. The brewery has received recognition at various beer competitions, which reveals an unerring commitment to excellence.

Foundation Brewing Company's history is a testament to its dedication to crafting unique and exceptional brews that contribute to the rich tapestry of Portland's craft beer community.

Overall Rating: ⭐3.92
Total Ratings: 261,601
Number of Beers Rated: 192
Address: 1, Industrial Way #7, Portland, ME 04103, United States
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Website: Foundation Brewing Company

Notable Beers Released by Foundation Brewing Company

Epiphany: A flagship beer, Epiphany is a bold Double IPA that features a blend of American and New Zealand hops to create a harmonious balance of tropical fruit and citrus flavors.
Burnside: This rich and malty Brown Ale offers a smooth blend of caramel and chocolate notes to provide a satisfying and robust drinking experience.
Zuurzing: A part of their sour series, Zuurzing showcases tantalizing tartness with fruity undertones to create a refreshing and complex sour ale.
Afterglow: An homage to farmhouse brewing traditions, Afterglow is a Belgian-style Saison with a spicy and fruity profile to offer a crisp and satisfying taste.
Venture: A hop-forward American IPA, Venture boasts a blend of citrus and pine flavors to deliver a refreshing and aromatic drinking experience.

Tasting Rooms, Food and Events

Foundation Brewing Company stands as a unique destination, boasting the only tasting room in Portland with an outdoor patio, allowing patrons to choose between indoor seating and outdoor seating. Guests can enjoy foods like pizza and cheesy bread complemented by snacks such as chips, salsa as well as tempting desserts.

The beer selection of this tasting room is diverse and features renowned brews like Josef, Chaos Elixir, Epiphany and Burnside. Foundation Brewing Company also allows engaging events including Trivia and Game Night to create a lively atmosphere while Club Discussions offer a platform for beer enthusiasts.

Foundation Brewing also caters to private events to provide a versatile space for fundraisers, parties, weddings, corporate gatherings and the quintessential pizza party.

6. Lone Pine Brewing Company

Founded in 2016 by brothers Tom and John Madden along with head brewer Tom Madden Jr., the brewery focuses on brewing bold and innovative beers.

Their commitment to quality has earned them recognition in the form of awards including accolades at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup for the Juicy or Hazy Imperial IPA beer style.

Lone Pine Brewing Company has become synonymous with creativity that pushes the boundaries of traditional brewing to deliver a diverse range of flavorful and meticulously crafted beers.

Overall Rating: ⭐3.90
Total Ratings: 291,624
Number of Beers Rated: 172
Address: 219, Anderson Street
Operation Hours: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Website: Lone Pine Brewing Company

Notable Beers Released by Lone Pine Brewing Company

Brightside IPA: A flagship India Pale Ale of Lone Pine known for its vibrant hop profile that boasts citrus and tropical fruit notes to create a refreshing and balanced brew.
Oh-J Double IPA: This Double IPA is characterized by its hazy appearance and a burst of juicy hop flavors to deliver a tropical experience.
Portland Pale Ale: A session-able Pale Ale that features a harmonious blend of malt sweetness and hop bitterness to offer a crisp and easy-drinking option.
Tessellation Double IPA: A bold and aromatic Double IPA with a mosaic of hop flavors including tropical fruit, pine, and citrus to create a complex and satisfying profile.
Blueberry Sparkler: A fruited Sour Ale infused with blueberries to offer a tantalizing blend of tartness and fruit sweetness which make it a refreshing and vibrant choice.