Even with the A1A Ale Works, a St. Augustine brewery, bowing out we remain with unique and exciting breweries in the country.
Did you know that St. Augustine is not only the oldest city in the United States but also home to innovative craft beers?
Today, we will look at the brewing history in St. Augustine, the top breweries in St. Augustine, and what they offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just looking for a new hangout spot, St. Augustine fl breweries promise a memorable experience.
Let us first see the origin of brewing in St. Augustine.
The History of Brewing in St. Augustine, Florida
The history of brewing in St. Augustine, Florida, is deeply rooted in the city’s rich past.
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States.
Early Spanish settlers brought their love for fermented beverages with them, although the primary drinks were wine and rum due to the climate and available resources.
Brewing beer in St. Augustine didn’t gain significant momentum until much later.
The craft beer movement in the United States, which gained traction in the late 20th century, eventually made its way to St. Augustine.
Local entrepreneurs and beer enthusiasts saw an opportunity to create unique brews that would reflect the city’s vibrant culture and history.
A1A Ale Works, the first St. Augustine brewery, was opened in the 1990s. It became a beloved local spot, offering handcrafted beers and a stunning view of Matanzas Bay.
Although A1A Ale Works has since closed, its influence helped pave the way for other breweries.
Today, St. Augustine boasts several innovative breweries that attract locals and tourists alike.
These establishments often incorporate local ingredients and historical themes into their brewing processes, creating a unique experience that pays homage to the city’s storied past while embracing modern craft brewing techniques.
Let’s have a look at the top breweries in St Augustine, Florida:
1. Ancient City Brewing
Ancient City Brewing is known for creating quality craft beer in St. Augustine.
Located off S.R. 16, just west of I-95, this St. Augustine brewery serves six favorite original brews daily and rotates about 16 others depending on the season and the brewmaster’s creativity.
The six fan-favorite brews include;
- Galleon’s Golden Ale,
- Augustine’s Orange Amber Ale,
- Matanzas River Red Ale,
- Ponce’s Pale Ale,
- Castillo Coconut Porter,
- and Anastasia Island IPA.
These popular beers are always available at their brew pub.
For those looking for something different, Ancient City Brewing offers seasonal, specialty, and one-time-only brews, which are served only at their brewhouse and downtown taproom locations.
The brewery also offers wine and has 20 brews on tap.
They host special events and weekly activities throughout the year, such as cornhole, pool, shuffleboard, darts, regular food truck appearances, improv shows, and live music.
Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun place to hang out, Ancient City Brewing provides a great atmosphere with a wide selection of beer and wine right in St. Augustine, Florida.
2. Dog Rose Brewing Co.
Dog Rose Brewing Co. opened its doors in October 2017 in the historic Lincolnville neighborhood, just blocks from the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district.
They specialize in handcrafted ales and lagers, brewed with a focus on style and tradition.
Their beer selection ranges from German-style Hefeweizens and Maibocks to fruited sours and West Coast IPAs, using only the finest ingredients to achieve the perfect flavor profile.
The spacious and open taproom is cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot to relax.
Inside, you’ll find a handcrafted Ambrosia maple bar and professional shuffleboard, cricket, and dartboards for some friendly competition.
With 5,000 square feet of space, there’s plenty of room to spread out with friends.
Dog Rose Brewing Co. also serve various wines, sodas, and light snacks.
The taproom often features live music, adding to the lively ambiance. If you’re in St. Augustine, Dog Rose Brewing Co. is a must-visit for local craft beer and good times.
3. Bog Brewing Company
Located in the Historic West King Street District, Bog Brewing Company brews and serves a variety of classic beer styles, Belgian-inspired ales, barrel-aged farmhouse beers, and lagers.
Opening its doors in March 2016, Bog Brewing has grown alongside the Northeast Florida craft beer scene.
Head Brewer and Co-Owner Steve Mendoza bring his years of experience and overseas travels to create inspired, seasonal beers.
The draft list features Belgian, German, and American-Farmhouse style ales.
Visitors can enjoy unique seasonal beers like the Smoked Datil Ale, brewed with locally sourced hot peppers, or the Saison Blanc, aged in Sauvignon Blanc barrels for 11 months.
The St. Augustine brewery constantly rotates half of the draft list, offering new beers and experiences with each visit.
While the brewery doesn’t serve food, guests are welcome to bring their snacks or meals, and food trucks like Taco My Blessing often park behind the brewery to serve patrons.
With ample parking available next to the building, Bog Brewing Company is a must-visit spot for craft beer lovers looking to experience the local brewing scene in a historic setting.
4. Old Coast Ale’s Brewery and Taproom
Old Coast Ales, a Saint Augustine brewery, began with brewing only 10 gallons at a time many years ago.
The first beer they ever brewed was the Empirical IPA.
Now brewing 200 gallons at a time, Old Coast Ales brings a wide selection of favorite styles to life:
- Malty stouts,
- Porters,
- Brown ales
- Double red,
- Classic ESB,
- and Burt’s Summer American wheat ale.
They also offer special barrel-aged ales and world-class IPAs.
The 7-barrel brewhouse is the heart of all Old Coast beers.
Old Coast Ales offers up to 12 taps of pure liquid excellence. With two separate patios, there is ample outdoor seating to enjoy the warm Florida sunshine.
Old Coast Ales also offers a selection of wines, non-alcoholic kombucha, and all-natural soda. Classic bar games such as foosball, ping pong, and table shuffleboard are available for visitors to enjoy.
Experience St. Augustine Breweries With Experts
For those interested in the flavors and stories of any St. Augustine brewery, St. Augustine Brewery Tours provides the perfect blend of education and libation.
The team, including owner Amanda Reed, with her profound beer and history knowledge, and tour manager Patrick Robinson, a certified beer expert, will take you through an unforgettable journey.
From team-building outings to bachelor(ette) parties, or simply a just-for-fun adventure, we will ensure that you get a personalized and enjoyable experience.
What Awaits You
Here’s what to expect when you book a tour:
- Insightful commentary on St. Augustine’s history.
- Exclusive tastings of signature brews and seasonal offerings.
- A chance to meet the masterminds behind your favorite local beers.
Join the Celebration of Craft
St. Augustine’s local breweries offer both taste and tradition.
With the return of St. Augustine Brewery Tours, consider purchasing a gift card for the beer lover in your life.
The breweries of St. Augustine are not just stops on a tour; they are destinations where every pint is a story, every sip a memory in the making.