New Orleans, known for its unique culture, rich history, and culinary delights, is also home to a burgeoning craft beer scene. From historic establishments to innovative newcomers, the city’s breweries offer diverse flavors that reflect its special spirit. In this article, we explore the best breweries in the city, delving into their histories and highlighting their standout products.
NOLA Brewing Company
History: NOLA Brewing Company, founded in 2008 by Kirk Coco and Peter Caddoo, was one of the first craft breweries to open in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The brewery was born out of a desire to bring local brewing back to the city, a tradition largely absent since Dixie Brewing Company’s closure in 2005. NOLA Brewing quickly became a cornerstone of the city’s craft beer scene, and it is known for its commitment to quality and community.
Best Products:
- NOLA Blonde Ale: A light and refreshing ale, perfect for the hot New Orleans climate. It’s brewed with a blend of American hops, giving it a crisp finish.
- Hopitoulas IPA: This is one of NOLA’s flagship beers. It is a robust IPA with a strong hop profile and a blend of six different hops, creating a complex and balanced flavor.
- Irish Channel Stout: A rich, dark stout named after one of the city’s historic neighborhoods. This beer features roasted malt flavors with hints of coffee and chocolate.
Urban South Brewery
History: Urban South Brewery was established in 2016 by Jacob Landry and Kyle Huling. Its mission is to combine the heritage of European beer-making with the American South’s unique flavors. Located in the Lower Garden District, Urban South has become one of the fastest-growing breweries in the region, known for its innovative and approachable beers.
Best Products:
- Holy Roller IPA: This hazy IPA is a favorite among locals. It offers a juicy hop aroma with flavors of citrus and tropical fruits.
- Paradise Park Lager: A light and crisp lager, Paradise Park is an easy-drinking beer that has become a staple in New Orleans bars and restaurants.
- Spilled Series: Urban South’s Spilled Series features fruited sours that push the boundaries of traditional beer, offering vibrant flavors like raspberry, peach, and passion fruit.
Parleaux Beer Lab
History: Parleaux Beer Lab opened its doors in the Bywater neighborhood in 2017. Founded by Eric Jensen, Parleaux is a microbrewery focused on small-batch, experimental brews. The name “Parleaux” is a play on the French word “parle aux,” meaning “speak water,” reflecting the brewery’s location near the Mississippi River and its emphasis on creating unique, water-based concoctions.
Best Products:
- Watermelon Gose: A seasonal favorite, this gose is brewed with fresh watermelon, offering a tart and refreshing experience.
- Bywater Blonde: A smooth and balanced blonde ale that pays homage to the brewery’s neighborhood, with a subtle malt sweetness and a clean finish.
- Mixed Fermentation Saisons: Parleaux is known for its saisons, brewed using a mix of wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in complex, earthy, and slightly funky flavors.
Port Orleans Brewing Company
History: Port Orleans Brewing Company was founded in 2017 by friends, including former New Orleans Saints player Zach Strief. The brewery was built on the idea of creating high-quality, approachable beers that reflect the laid-back lifestyle of the Crescent City. Located on Tchoupitoulas Street, Port Orleans has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and visitors.
Best Products:
- Riverfront Lager: A smooth and easy-drinking lager, Riverfront is a perfect representation of the brewery’s commitment to crafting accessible beers.
- Slack Water Brown Ale: This brown ale features rich malt flavors with hints of caramel and chocolate, making it an excellent choice for cooler evenings.
- Dorado Double IPA: For hop lovers, the Dorado Double IPA offers a bold, hoppy profile with a strong, bitter finish.
Second Line Brewing
History: Second Line Brewing, located in Mid-City, was founded in 2014 by Mark Logan, his wife Karen, and their friend Polly Watts. The brewery’s name is a nod to the traditional New Orleans second line parades, symbolizing the celebration and community spirit that defines the city. Second Line Brewing is known for its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to sustainability.
Best Products:
- Batture Blonde Ale: This flagship beer is a light, crisp blonde ale with a slightly sweet malt backbone and a clean finish.
- IPA: Simply named, this IPA is a well-balanced beer with a strong hop presence and notes of citrus and pine.
- A Saison Named Desire: This saison is a tribute to the famous streetcar line, offering a spicy, fruity, slightly tart flavor profile.
Care Forgot Beercraft
History: Care Forgot Beercraft is one of the newer entries to the New Orleans craft beer scene, opening its doors in 2021. Founded by local beer enthusiasts and longtime friends Paul Dupre and Marie Landry, the brewery’s name is a nod to New Orleans’ unofficial nickname, “The City Care Forgot.” Situated in the Marigny neighborhood, Care Forgot Beercraft focuses on brewing beers that are as eclectic and vibrant as the city itself. The founders were inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans, and their beers often reflect the flavors and traditions of the region.
Best Products:
- Bayou Bohemian Pilsner: This pilsner is a modern take on a classic style. It features a crisp, clean finish with a subtle hop bitterness. It’s brewed with a blend of European and American hops, making it a refreshing option for any occasion.
- Voodoo Queen Porter: A robust porter with deep malt flavors, the Voodoo Queen Porter is a tribute to the mystical side of New Orleans. This beer is rich and satisfying, with notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and a hint of vanilla.
- Creole Saison: The Creole Saison is a farmhouse ale brewed with a blend of spices commonly found in Creole cooking. The result is a beer with a complex flavor profile, featuring hints of pepper, citrus, and a slight earthiness that pairs well with various dishes.
Conclusion
New Orleans’ craft beer scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city. Each brewery brings something unique: innovative brewing techniques, a deep connection to local culture, or a commitment to community. The next time you’re in the Crescent City, visit these breweries and experience the best of New Orleans’ craft beer offerings.
