Hop Heaven: A Brewery Tour in Scenic Vermont
Hello, beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike! Today, we venture into the captivating state of Vermont, where the picturesque scenery is rivaled only by the extraordinary craft beer scene. Our itinerary includes visits to three iconic breweries: Alchemist Brewery, von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall, and Idletyme Brewing Company. Prepare for a unique sensory journey as we explore these illustrious beer havens.
Stop 1: Alchemist Brewery
Our first stop brings us to the Alchemist Brewery, located in the charming town of Stowe. The brewery is home to Heady Topper, a Double IPA that has reached near-legendary status in the craft beer world. The Alchemist boasts an exclusive selection of beers, each expertly crafted and packed with unique flavor profiles.
While the Heady Topper often steals the show, don't miss out on the rest of their stellar lineup, which includes Focal Banger, an American IPA, and Crusher, a strong Double IPA. Enjoy the educational self-guided tour where you'll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the brewing process, and make sure to sample the brewery's offerings in the welcoming tasting room.
Stop 2: von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall
From one Stowe landmark to another, we venture next to the von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall. This brewery, part of the Trapp Family Lodge resort, draws inspiration from the traditional lagers of Austria. With the Green Mountains serving as the backdrop, you might just feel transported to the European countryside.
Enjoy a guided tour of the state-of-the-art brewery and delve into the von Trapp family history along the way. Later, unwind in the Bierhall with a pint of Vienna Style Lager or Dunkel Lager, complemented perfectly by Austrian-inspired cuisine. The von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall successfully marries old-world tradition with Vermont's natural beauty and hospitality.
Stop 3: Idletyme Brewing Company
Our final stop is the Idletyme Brewing Company, a truly unique entity on the Vermont beer scene. Housed in a building that's been a beloved part of the Stowe community for generations, Idletyme brings a distinctive charm and an array of finely brewed beers to the table.
From the double IPA appropriately named Idletyme to the subtly sweet Vanilla Porter, each brew is a testament to the mastery of their craft. Pair your drink with a delicious meal from their 'from scratch' kitchen and be sure to relax in the beer garden - a perfect spot to sip your brew and enjoy the beautiful Vermont landscape.
A tour of Vermont's breweries offers not just the chance to sample some outstanding beers but also the opportunity to immerse oneself in the history, community, and culture of this splendid state. Each brewery brings its unique flair, setting the stage for a memorable exploration of Vermont's vibrant craft beer scene.
So, fellow travelers, get ready to raise a glass to Vermont's craft beer heritage and experience these breweries for yourself. After all, good things do come in brews!
We'll see you on the beer trail!