Kentucky is renowned for its bourbon distilleries and rich agricultural heritage, and is now home to a burgeoning and increasingly diverse craft beer scene. From the rolling hills of the Bluegrass region, passionate brewers are crafting innovative and flavorful beers that reflect the state’s unique character. This month’s list delves into the heart of Kentucky’s brewery landscape, exploring the stories behind the taps and the vibrant community shaping its beer culture. Join me and raise a glass to the breweries putting Kentucky firmly on the map for craft beer enthusiasts.
The original Lexington Brewing Co. operated in the 1890s but ceased during Prohibition, undergoing several ownership changes. In 1999, despite its dilapidated state, Pearse Lyons, driven by his family’s brewing and distilling heritage, envisioned its potential. He then revitalized the brewery, reinstating a craft beer legacy started in the 18th century.
One of their modern ales presents a complex tapestry of flavors, commencing with the soft, pillowy texture characteristic of a well-crafted wheat beer. The bourbon barrels lend a nuanced warmth, contributing gentle notes of vanilla, caramel, and a whisper of oak, rather than overpowering the fruit. Tart cherry emerges as the star, its vibrant acidity cutting through the richness with a refreshing tang, offering a natural, almost jam-like depth rather than an artificial sweetness. This is not merely a flavored beer; it is a thoughtfully composed symphony of ingredients, demonstrating an understanding of how fruit, barrel aging, and grain selection can coalesce into a truly elevated drinking experience.
It wouldn’t feel right talking about the rising craft brew scene without shouting out some friends across the Ohio River. While Rhinegeist Brewing isn’t located in Kentucky, its close proximity to Northern Kentucky, just 20 minutes from Cincinnati, Ohio, makes it a crucial component of the brewing community and culture in that part of the state.
In 2013, Rhinegeist opened in Cincinnati with a small team serving their first beers, including a last-minute batch of Truth IPA, to over 2,000 excited locals. Since that busy beginning, the brewery has expanded its reach, beer selection, and team, even adding a second Facility in Erlanger, Kentucky. Yet the spirit of bringing people together over craft beer and good vibes remains at the heart of Rhinegeist’s journey.
One of my current favorites would have to be an Imperial Hazy IPA by the name of Mysticore. Mild bitterness is balanced by mild sweetness, allowing the hop-derived fruit notes to dominate the profile. With Galaxy and Nectaron hops combined, expect a vibrant aromatic profile. Galaxy often contributes intense notes of passionfruit and peach, while Nectaron adds layers of juicy pineapple, more pronounced citrus. Together, they create a powerfully tropical and stone fruit-forward character that is both bright and lush.
The final destination on our tour lands us right here in Bowling Green! White Squirrel Brewery, located at 302 State Street, officially opened its doors April 2023 for testing. Mostly, it was an opportunity to welcome in the people of Bowling Green and help them capture the vision. Co-owners Sean and Brian made a significant step by appointing Nash Davis as their Master Brewer by the summer of 2024. White Squirrel is a legend in the making and the beers live up to the hype.
Picture this: a crisp, golden Kölsch, brewed to refreshing perfection, now kissed with the subtle warmth of fresh jalapeños. It’s not about fiery heat, but rather a delightful dance of flavors – the clean, slightly fruity notes of the classic ale elevated by a gentle, grassy pepperiness. Each sip offers a unique experience, the initial coolness giving way to a lingering, pleasant tingle that invigorates the palate without overwhelming it. White Squirrel has a passion for serving the Bowling Green community with quality beverages, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Kentucky’s craft breweries are crafting beers with a distinct sense of place. They are not only embracing global brewing trends but also creatively incorporating the state’s rich heritage, resulting in a diverse and exciting beer landscape. As the community continues to grow and experiment, one thing is clear: Kentucky’s breweries are more than just producers of beer; they are becoming integral threads in the state’s cultural fabric. So, the next time you’re here at Mellow Mushroom, be sure to seek out these local brews, and discover the liquid artistry that is flowing from Kentucky’s taps.
-by Maeve Black
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