Nothing tastes quite like a sip of locally brewed beer. Depending on the company and the brewing process they use, each beer has a unique taste that is unlike any other beer out there. Here is a guide to some of the best local beer establishments in Albany.
Druthers Brewing
Druthers Brewing offers an unparalleled combination of local beer and great food. Originally opened in Saratoga, Druthers brings a wide selection of beer to its Albany location. It offers five signature beers all year long, including Golden Rule Pilsner, Fist of Karma Brown, Against the Grain Hefeweizen, The Dare, and All-In IPA. Seven additional beers join the regular menu with the seasons. Every beer has a clear description, along with the alcohol content, so both beginners and experienced craft beer drinkers know what to expect.
They also offer a comprehensive menu of tasty snacks and full dishes to go along with your choice of brew. A local favorite is the beer cheese dip. Other classics include pizzas, pasta, and burgers. The brewery is open for lunch and dinner and has a catering menu as well.
Fort Orange Brewing
The Fort Orange Brewing Company opened its doors in Albany because the three owners were passionate about making delicious craft beer. It has a rotating menu of beers and snacks, like popcorn and pretzels for purchase. Fort Orange IPA is the company’s signature beer. It is juicy with just a bit of bitterness. Other beers on the menu include The General and Nipper, an amber ale and IPA, respectively.
Fort Orange has a family-friendly atmosphere too. Locals with very young children go there for a night out. Adults without children enjoy their delicious craft beers over a variety of available arcade games. The brewery also holds events, like trivia nights and Paint with a Pint.
Rare Form Brewing Company
The Rare Form Brewing Company, in nearby Troy, is another option locals frequent. It is a small brewing company that reflects the tastes of the East, Midwest, and West — places where the owners have lived. You will find the refreshing Bling of Zeus Imperial Pilsner and sweet and nutty Members Only as available options, among other specialty beers. They also have kombucha and rotating cider on tap.
You will see that Rare Form Brewing Company also embraces art as each of their beer labels are made by different artists. Customers can buy poster prints of the art, too. The profits proudly go straight to the artist. Mixing a love of craft beers with a bit of culture, attend “Rare Forums” on Monday evenings, once a month, and listen to Gerry Lorentz — a professor, local beer historian, and author — as he speaks about various topics on beer history.
Drinking craft beer is an adventure because each company has its own unique take on the brewing process. Passion and knowledge of what a good beer tastes like connect people. Make time to visit one of these brewing companies on your next trip to Albany.
