2023's Ultimate Guide to Bend, OR's Best Breweries - Don't Miss Out!

Introduction:

Bend, Oregon is known for its gorgeous landscapes and thriving craft beer scene. With its own brewery trail and the title of "Beer City USA," Bend remains a popular spot for beer enthusiasts. Here's an outline of some of the most popular breweries in Bend and their unique offerings.

I. Popular Breweries in Bend

A. Goodlife Brewing Company

Goodlife Brewing Company is one of Bend's most popular breweries, and it's easy to see why. Their extensive beer menu, lively pub, and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients make it a hot spot for locals and visitors alike. The Descender IPA is a fan favorite, offering a well-balanced taste with notes of pine, citrus, tropical, and peach. This smooth and drinkable beer is a must-try.

B. Silver Moon Brewing

The third oldest brewery in Bend, Silver Moon Brewing offers a unique blend of hops and grains. Its quirky taproom with a disco ball, rich history, and beautiful location make it a popular choice. While it may not be known for its food options as much as its beer, it serves impressive IPA-smoked juicy brats and has beautiful outdoor seating. Their IPA 97 is a must-try, offering a tropical bomb or citrus flavors produced by Australian and New Zealand hops.

C. Worthy Brewing Company

Worthy Brewing Company boasts a beautiful three-story tower with a giant telescope and retractable roof, providing a unique drinking experience. The brewery combines locally-sourced food, world-renowned beer options, and a chance to look at the stars, making it one of the best breweries in Bend. Their Lights Out Milk Stout is a deliciously smooth and creamy drink with a pleasant chocolate taste brewed with oats, milk sugar, and vanilla beans.

D. Crux Fermentation Project

Crux Fermentation Project is a must-visit brewery in Bend, with a backdrop of the beautiful Cascade Mountain. Its use of wild yeast varieties and non-traditional styles makes it a unique experience. Crux's BANISHED series offers barrel-aged beer varieties, with their (BANISHED) Tough Love being a must-try. The deep brown beer boasts roasted malts, hints of dark fruit, vanilla, chocolate, fudge, and has dark cherries, raisins, and earthy notes.

E. 10 Barrel Brewing Company

10 Barrel Brewing Company has two vibrant brewpubs, each serving an extensive and diverse beer menu. The new east Bend brewpub features an open kitchen and pet-friendly outdoor patio. Their Apocalypse IPA is a fan favorite, with a deep golden color and a fruity and citrusy hop aroma, matched with a smooth and clean malt character.

F. Boneyard Beer

Boneyard Beer opened in 2018 inside an old auto shop. Being the new kid on the block, the brewery quickly gained popularity for its hop-forward beers and award-winning signature drinks. Their Hop Venom Double IPA is a well-balanced beer, with a sweet caramel malt aroma and fruity hops that translate into flavor.

G. Bridge 99 Brewery

Bridge 99 Brewery stays true to the craft beer scene, brewing each batch using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. The brewery's focus on sustainability makes it a unique experience for visitors. Their Tiramisu-inspired Porter is a deliciously sweet beer, brewed using a combination of malts and cascade hops.

II. Breweries with Impressive Food Options

A. Monkless Belgian Ales

Monkless Belgian Ales is located next to Deschutes River, offering a serene and peaceful vibe for beer enthusiasts. The brewery produces award-winning European-style beers inspired by the slow and patient brewing methods of actual monks in Belgium. The pub-grub is delectable, including juicy brats and bistro classics such as beer-steamed mussels, duck fat frites, and poutine. The 2019 Oregon Beer Awards Bronze-winning Peppercorn Imperial Wit is a must-try, offering a light-bodied drink with citrusy orange peel notes and a clean peppery finish.

B. 10 Barrel Brewing Company

10 Barrel Brewing Company makes a second appearance on our list, this time for their extensive food menu. Their various beer options pair well with pub-style food, including steak nachos, specialty pizzas, and a variety of chicken wings. The refreshing Apocalypse IPA goes well with a hearty meal of Gorgonzola steak nachos, made with Cajun fries, bacon, gorgonzola, and a four-cheese sauce.

C. Crux Fermentation Project

Crux Fermentation Project has food trucks, games, and plenty of outdoor seating. Their barrel-aged stout, Tough Love, pairs well with the Cuban pork belly, a greasy sandwich made with fire-roasted pork belly, ham, house pickles, and melted Swiss cheese.

Conclusion:

Bend's craft beer scene continues to evolve, offering visitors exciting and unique drinking experiences. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, Bend has what you're looking for. Visit these breweries and try out their unique offerings, you won't be disappointed.