Central Ballard Brewery Tour in Seattle, WA

In the center of the highest concentration of craft breweries in the world, three amazing breweries stand out. We will taste 12 beers that range from old world classics, such as Czech style Pilsners and old English Ales, to contemporary Northwest IPAs and experimental beers.

The exact line-up of beers changes for each tour because each season has its own unique styles. During the summer we may try a refreshing lager, a wheat beer or a sour ale flavored with local fruit. The fall brings Oktoberfest lagers, pumpkin spiced ales, and fresh hopped IPAs. During the winter we may find a Christmas-spiced Old English Ale or a Whiskey Barrel Aged Stout, while the spring favors strong Bocks or a refreshing Kölsh.

For each guided tasting we will learn about the different beer styles, what to look for when you are tasting beer, the history of beer, and the craft brewing renaissance in the Pacific Northwest. For example, we'll learn how an obscure export ale for British soldiers was reborn in the Pacific Northwest to become the most popular craft beer style in North America or how a small Czech town gave its name to one of the world's most popular beer styles.

Reuben's Brews
Our tour begins at Reuben's Brews, one of the neighborhood's most popular spots. This brewery is truly a family affair. In fact, young Reuben was only a month old when he inspired his dad to start brewing. Let's drop in and enjoy Reuben's father's handiwork.

Obec Brewing
Our next stop is Ballard's newest micro-brewery. Obec is a Czech word (pronounced "O-Betz") meaning "community" and their ideal is to build community around beer. You will feel right at home with their traditional styles and cozy taproom. It is all about building community around Obec, and making the world a better place through beer. We will also get a look at the brewing process.

Stoup Brewing
Stoup has that crazy, mixed-up Seattle, hipster, family vibe. The beer garden features a fire pit for those cool evenings and there is always something new and exciting on tap. Besides traditional styles and IPAs, you may find experimental beers and old world beers you typically find only in Europe.