Beer lovers, book a flight out to visit Albuquerque, New Mexico right now, because the breweries and craft beer situation in ABQ is just what the beer doctor ordered!
Disclosure: As part of a press trip, I toured breweries in Albuquerque, but opinions and love for beer are 100% my own.
On my latest trip out to the Southwest (actually, my first trip ever to the Southwest), we tasted our way through some of the best breweries in Albuquerque and I’m here to let you know Albuquerque is for Beer Lovers! Today, I’m sharing the top three breweries in town that are a must visit when you’re in New Mexico – you’ll find a variety of brew styles, good food that pairs exceptionally well with beer, and beer professionals that will be able to guide your tasting sessions!
Rio Bravo Brewing Company
Our first stop takes us to Rio Bravo Brewing Company, a very community driven brewery with a gorgeous tasting room and bar, where they not only have a large variety of their beers on tap, but also cater to your hunger pains and provide a delicious menu for guests. Don’t want to sit at the tap room? The entrance has a couple of picnic tables sprinkled around that overlook the brewery, where you can see the beer being produced. During the warmer months, the beer garden will be welcoming you to sip beers under the warm New Mexican sun while listening to live music at times. My favorite brew: Rio Bravo Amber, with some notes of sweet fruit.
Canteen Brewhouse
Next up, Canteen Brewhouse (formerly known as Il Vicino Brewery). The former opened in 2004 and on their 20th birthday decided to rebrand – still the same great beer, just new packaging and name. They’ve won over 140 local, national and international medals (including thirteen wins at Great American Beer Festival). Make sure to have lunch when at Canteen, because their menu is outstanding – swanky sandwiches like the Frenchy Sandwich makes me wish I was back in ABQ right now! My favorite brew: La Luz Wheat – barely hopped, incredibly light American Wheat Ale.
Red Door Brewery Company
Last but not least, the Red Door Brewing Company. The atmosphere at Red Door is quite inviting and fun – thus the “red door”. Tradition states that red doors were signs of hospitality, thus you can see them all over the US (New England is big on this!) and it was a lovely sight in Albuquerque. It’s just the place to relax after a long day at work (rumor has it they even have an original Nintendo with Mario Kart – how did I miss that?!). My favorite brews (I could’t choose just one): Unhinged Cider and Roamer Red Ale.
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