The Top 30 Breweries in California Ranked

California’s craft beer scene is a haven for beer enthusiasts, with breweries across the state pouring creativity into every glass. From San Diego’s sunny coast to San Francisco’s lively urban core, these spots craft everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs with unmatched skill. This article rounds up the best breweries in California, spotlighting those that excel in flavor, atmosphere, and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned beer fan or just curious, these taprooms offer a warm welcome and a chance to enjoy top-notch brews in settings that feel like home.

Each brewery on our list brings something special, whether it’s a unique take on classic styles or innovative new flavors. You’ll find cozy, laid-back spots perfect for a casual pint and larger venues buzzing with energy. We’ve handpicked these gems to showcase California’s diverse beer culture, ensuring every stop is worth your time. With a focus on quality and character, these breweries capture the state’s love for craft beer, making them ideal for locals and travelers alike looking to enjoy a memorable sip.

#30 – Three Weavers Brewing Company

Three Weavers Brewing Company, based in Inglewood, California, has been a standout in the craft beer scene since its founding in 2013. Known for its commitment to community and quality, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various tastes. Their flagship beer, Expatriate, is a West Coast IPA brewed with two-row barley, English crystal malt, and American hops like Simcoe, Mosaic, and El Dorado, delivering tropical fruit flavors with a resinous finish . For those who prefer a lighter option, Seafarer is a Kölsch-style ale made with German Pilsner malt and noble hops, offering a crisp and refreshing experience. The brewery also caters to fans of hazy IPAs with offerings like Cloud City and Vela, both known for their juicy profiles. Three Weavers’ dedication to innovation and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Southern California.

#29 – North Coast Brewing Co.

North Coast Brewing Co., located in Fort Bragg, has been a cornerstone of California’s craft beer scene since 1988, earning a loyal following for its bold, high-quality brews and inviting taproom. Known for its innovative takes on classic styles, the brewery shines with beers like Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, a rich, intense brew with complex flavors and a warm finish that’s a favorite among stout lovers. Their Scrimshaw Pilsner, crisp and clean with a subtle hop kick, is another standout, perfect for casual sipping. The brewery’s commitment to tradition and quality has made it a go-to for beer fans, with its coastal taproom offering a cozy vibe and a menu that pairs perfectly with its diverse lineup. North Coast’s focus on sustainability and community, plus its wide distribution, keeps it popular across the state and beyond, making it a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional craft beer in a relaxed setting.

#28 – Enegren Brewing Company

Enegren Brewing Company, nestled in Moorpark, California, has carved a niche as a go-to spot for German-inspired craft beer since its founding in 2010. Renowned for its lager-focused lineup, this brewery draws crowds with its crisp, clean beers like The Lightest One, a 4.8% ABV Munich-style Helles lager with a subtle hop finish, and Valkyrie, a malt-forward Altbier boasting toasty caramel notes. Their Schöner Tag Hefeweizen, with its refreshing banana and clove flavors, is a fan favorite for sunny days. Enegren’s lively Biergarten and taproom, located in The Alley, create a family-friendly vibe with food trucks, trivia nights, and beer yoga, making it a community hub. Its dedication to traditional German brewing techniques, paired with a modern twist, has earned it a loyal following. With a focus on quality and a knack for hosting fun events, Enegren is a standout for craft beer lovers seeking authentic, approachable brews in Ventura County.

#27 – Moksa Brewing Company

Moksa Brewing Company, based in Rocklin, California, has become a craft beer hotspot since opening in 2018, celebrated for its bold, flavorful beers and welcoming taproom. Specializing in hazy IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, and sours, Moksa draws fans with standouts like Cloud Curtain, a juicy double IPA bursting with tropical hop notes, and Pastry Party, a rich stout with dessert-like depth. Their taproom, with its modern, open vibe, offers 20 rotating taps and food trucks, creating a laid-back spot for locals and visitors. Moksa’s focus on quality and innovation, paired with limited-release cans that sell out fast, keeps beer enthusiasts coming back. The brewery’s knack for balancing intense flavors with drinkability has earned it a strong reputation in Northern California’s competitive beer scene. With community events and a pet-friendly patio, Moksa is a must-visit for anyone seeking creative, high-quality brews in a relaxed, social setting near Sacramento.

#26 – Burning Barrel Brewing Co.

Burning Barrel Brewing Co., located in Rancho Cordova, California, has built a strong reputation for its creative and diverse beer offerings. Known for pushing boundaries, the brewery gained attention for crafting what they claim to be the world’s hottest beer, infused with six of the hottest peppers, requiring participants to sign waivers before tasting it. Beyond such bold experiments, Burning Barrel consistently delivers quality brews. Their flagship, Side Pull Pillows, is a Czech-style pilsner celebrated for its crisp and clean profile. The brewery’s tap list frequently features a rotating selection of inventive beers, including hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and barrel-aged stouts. With a spacious 150-seat tasting room and a shaded patio, Burning Barrel offers a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors. Their commitment to innovation and quality has solidified their status as a must-visit destination in Northern California’s craft beer scene.

#25 – Fieldwork Brewing Company

Fieldwork Brewing Company, founded in Berkeley, California, in 2014, has become a craft beer favorite for its diverse, ever-rotating tap list and taprooms across the state. Known for its experimental approach, Fieldwork excels in hop-forward IPAs like Pulp Free, a juicy, citrus-packed hazy IPA, and crisp lagers like King Citra, a single-hop pale ale with bright, tropical notes. Their focus on fresh, small-batch brews ensures there’s always something new to try, from sours to stouts. With multiple locations, including Sacramento and San Mateo, their dog-friendly taprooms and beer gardens create a relaxed, community-focused vibe, often paired with local food trucks. Fieldwork’s popularity stems from its commitment to quality, innovative recipes, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a hophead or seeking a refreshing pilsner, Fieldwork’s creative brews and laid-back settings make it a top stop for craft beer enthusiasts in California’s bustling beer scene.

#24 – Pizza Port Brewing Company

Pizza Port Brewing Company, a Southern California staple since 1987, is a beloved brewpub chain with locations in Solana Beach, Carlsbad, San Clemente, Ocean Beach, and Imperial Beach, known for its award-winning beers and laid-back, beachy vibe. Famous for Swami’s IPA, a citrusy West Coast IPA with a crisp finish, and California Honey, a refreshing blonde ale with local honey, Pizza Port has racked up over 100 Great American Beer Festival medals, including gold for Junk In Da Trunkel Dunkel in 2024. Their brewpubs buzz with surfer-inspired charm, offering tasty pizzas alongside beers like Sharkbite Red Ale, a robust, hoppy red. Each location has its own brewhouse, ensuring fresh, unique brews, while the Bressi Ranch site handles canning for wider distribution. Pizza Port’s commitment to quality, fun atmospheres, and community focus—paired with its pioneering role in San Diego’s craft beer scene—makes it a top destination for beer lovers seeking great brews and good times.

#23 – Societe Brewing Company

Societe Brewing Company, founded in 2012 in San Diego, California, has earned a stellar reputation for its meticulously crafted beers and welcoming taproom in the heart of America’s craft beer capital. Known for its hop-driven offerings, Societe’s The Pupil IPA, a balanced blend of tropical and piney notes, is a fan favorite, while The Coachman, a session IPA with bright citrus flavors, appeals to those seeking lighter brews. Their Out West series, including sours and stouts, showcases their versatility. The brewery’s spacious, industrial-style taproom in Kearny Mesa fosters a community vibe with food trucks and events, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Societe’s focus on precision brewing, using high-quality ingredients, has garnered awards and a loyal following. With a knack for creating approachable yet complex beers, Societe stands out in San Diego’s competitive beer scene, offering a must-visit experience for craft beer enthusiasts craving bold flavors in a relaxed, social setting.

#22 – Kern River Brewing Company

Kern River Brewing Company, tucked away in Kernville, California, has been a craft beer standout since 2006, drawing fans with its bold, hoppy brews and rustic mountain-town charm. Famous for Just Outstanding IPA, a balanced West Coast IPA with citrus and pine notes, and Citra Double IPA, a hop-heavy favorite with juicy tropical flavors, Kern River has earned multiple Great American Beer Festival medals. Their Class V Stout, with its rich, roasty profile, is a hit among dark beer lovers. The brewery’s cozy taproom and brewpub, complete with hearty food and a welcoming patio, make it a perfect stop for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Kern River Valley. Known for limited-release beers that spark excitement among fans, Kern River’s small-batch approach and focus on quality keep it a beloved gem. Its laid-back vibe and stellar beers make it a must-visit for craft beer fans seeking flavorful brews in a scenic, relaxed setting.

#21 – Ballast Point Brewing Company

Ballast Point Brewing Company, founded in 1996 in San Diego, California, is a craft beer pioneer celebrated for its bold, award-winning brews and taprooms. Best known for Sculpin IPA, a grapefruit-infused, hoppy masterpiece with bright citrus notes, Ballast Point also shines with beers like Victory at Sea, a rich imperial porter with coffee and vanilla undertones, and Aloha Sculpin, a tropical hazy IPA. With multiple locations, including Miramar and Little Italy, their spacious taprooms offer a lively, nautical-themed vibe, paired with tasty pub fare that complements their diverse beer lineup. Ballast Point’s commitment to quality and innovation, backed by over 400 awards, including World Beer Cup medals, has made it a household name in craft beer. Its wide distribution and experimental small-batch releases keep fans excited. A must-visit for beer lovers, Ballast Point blends tradition with creativity, offering flavorful brews in a welcoming, coastal-inspired setting perfect for locals and tourists alike.

#20 – Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., based in Chico, California, is one of the most respected breweries in the country and a key name in craft beer history. It’s best known for its Pale Ale, which helped introduce many people to bold, hop-forward beers with balanced flavor. This flagship beer remains one of the most popular and widely recognized in the craft beer scene. Sierra Nevada also offers other favorites like Torpedo Extra IPA and Hazy Little Thing, which have earned praise for their fresh taste and approachable styles. The Chico location features a welcoming taproom, beer garden, and brewery tours that give visitors a chance to see the brewing process up close. The brewery is also recognized for its strong commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly brewing methods and energy-saving practices. With decades of experience and a focus on quality, Sierra Nevada continues to be a top choice for craft beer lovers across California and beyond.

#19 – Wondrous Brewing Company

Wondrous Brewing Company, located at 1306 65th Street in Emeryville, California, is a small-batch brewery that opened its doors in May 2021. Founded by Wynn Whisenhunt, a brewer with experience at Lagunitas Brewing Co. and Sante Adairius Rustic Ales, Wondrous Brewing focuses on crafting thoughtful beers that inspire wonder and creativity. The brewery’s commitment to quality is evident in its diverse beer offerings, which include styles such as West Coast IPAs, Czech-style Pilsners, and dark lagers. Notable beers include the Wondrous Hell Munich-style Lager, which won a Bronze Medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival, and the Eternal Echo Dark Lagerbier. The brewery’s taproom features a modern, minimalist design with concrete floors, stainless steel brewing equipment, and a spacious beer garden. Wondrous Brewing Company also emphasizes community engagement, welcoming all ages and allowing guests to bring food from nearby restaurants to enjoy with their beers.

#18 – Beachwood Brewing

Beachwood Brewing, with locations in Long Beach, Huntington Beach, and Garden Grove, is a standout in California’s craft beer scene. Founded in 2011, the brewery has earned a loyal following for its commitment to quality and innovation. Beachwood is known for its hop-forward beers, particularly its West Coast-style IPAs. Flagship offerings include the Amalgamator, a 7.1% ABV IPA featuring Mosaic, Warrior, Columbus, and Amarillo hops, and the Citraholic, another 7.1% ABV IPA brewed with Citra, Warrior, Columbus, and Simcoe hops. These beers are celebrated for their bold flavors and balanced profiles. The brewery also offers a variety of other styles, including the Beachwood Blonde, a light and easy-drinking ale, and the Mocha Machine, a rich imperial porter infused with coffee and cacao nibs. Beyond the beer, Beachwood Brewing is recognized for its dedication to sustainability and community engagement. With multiple locations and a diverse beer lineup, Beachwood Brewing continues to be a favorite destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

#17 – Moonraker Brewing Co.

Moonraker Brewing Co., located in Auburn, California, has quickly become a standout in the craft beer scene since its founding in 2016. Known for its hop-forward New England-style IPAs, the brewery has garnered a dedicated following among beer enthusiasts. Flagship beers like YOJO, Electric Lettuce, and The Holy Hermit showcase bold flavors and have received high ratings from the craft beer community. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its diverse beer offerings, which include a range of IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Moonraker Brewing Co. also emphasizes sustainability, operating with over 1,100 solar panels to power its brewing operations and taproom. The Auburn location offers a welcoming atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or new to the scene, Moonraker Brewing Co. provides a memorable experience for all.

#16 – Humble Sea Brewing Co.

Humble Sea Brewing Co., founded in 2015 in Santa Cruz, California, has become a standout in the craft beer community. Known for their hazy, hop-forward “foggy IPAs,” the brewery offers a variety of styles that appeal to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Their flagship IPA, Socks & Sandals, is a double dry-hopped brew with Citra, Centennial, Simcoe, and Chinook hops, delivering a creamy mouthfeel with tropical fruit flavors. Beyond IPAs, Humble Sea produces a diverse lineup, including German-style lagers like the Landline Shark and the Wave Czech pilsner. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned them recognition in the craft beer scene. With multiple locations in Santa Cruz, Pacifica, and Alameda, Humble Sea Brewing Co. continues to expand its reach and share its passion for craft beer with a broader audience

#15 – Riip Beer Co.

Riip Beer Co., located in Huntington Beach, California, is a standout in the Southern California craft beer scene. Founded in 2015, the brewery has quickly gained recognition for its hop-forward beers and commitment to quality. Flagship offerings like the Dan K IPA and Raider Bob Double IPA showcase bold flavors and have earned high ratings from beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s dedication to innovation is evident in its diverse lineup, which includes a variety of IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Riip Beer Co. also emphasizes community engagement, hosting events like trivia nights and offering a dog-friendly taproom environment. With multiple locations in Huntington Beach, including a brewery and taproom on Pacific Coast Highway, Riip Beer Co. continues to be a favorite destination for craft beer lovers seeking fresh, high-quality brews.

#14 – Stone Brewing

Stone Brewing, based in Escondido, California, is a major name in the American craft beer scene. Founded in 1996, it helped shape the industry with bold, hop-forward beers that stand out for their strong flavors. Its flagship beer, Arrogant Bastard Ale, is well-known for its rich malt and piney bitterness, attracting a loyal following. Stone also offers popular brews like Stone IPA and Stone Delicious IPA, both praised for their tropical and citrus notes. The brewery’s Escondido location features a large beer garden and a focus on local ingredients. Beyond great beer, Stone Brewing is committed to sustainability and community involvement. In 2022, it was acquired by Sapporo but has kept its focus on quality and innovation. Known for pushing boundaries, Stone Brewing remains a top choice for craft beer lovers who enjoy bold flavors and well-crafted brews.

#13 – Firestone Walker Brewing Company

Firestone Walker Brewing Company, founded in 1996 in Paso Robles, California, is well-known in the craft beer world. Their flagship beer, 805 Blonde Ale, is a light and easy-drinking brew that has become one of California’s top sellers. They also offer the Mind Haze IPA, a hazy IPA with juicy, tropical fruit flavors, and Union Jack, a West Coast IPA with balanced bitterness and citrus notes. The brewery is recognized for its innovative barrel-aged beers like Parabola and Anniversary Ale, showing their focus on quality and creativity. Firestone Walker runs several locations, including their main brewery in Paso Robles, a barrel-aging facility in Buellton, and a smaller brewhouse in Venice. The company also prioritizes sustainability and supports local communities. With its wide range of popular beers and dedication to craft, Firestone Walker Brewing Company remains a key player in California’s beer scene.

#12 – Alvarado Street Brewery

Alvarado Street Brewery, founded in 2014 in Monterey, California, has quickly made a name for itself with its quality, ingredient-driven beers. The brewery runs several locations including its main brewpub in downtown Monterey, a lager-focused spot in Carmel-by-the-Sea, and a taproom in Oldtown Salinas. These venues offer fresh, locally brewed beers and a welcoming atmosphere. Alvarado Street has earned multiple awards, including gold, silver, and bronze medals at the 2025 World Beer Cup for beers like Howzit Punch (American-style Sour Ale), Contains No Juice (Hazy Double IPA), and Gold Label Mai Tai P.A. (American Strong Pale Ale). Their commitment to using quality ingredients and crafting unique flavors has helped them stand out in California’s craft beer scene. Whether you prefer sour ales, hazy IPAs, or strong pale ales, this brewery offers a solid range of choices that appeal to many beer lovers.

#11 – Cellarmaker Brewing Co.

Cellarmaker Brewing Company, founded in 2013 in San Francisco, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, focusing on small-batch, hop-forward beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. The brewery has expanded its presence with locations in San Francisco’s Mission District, Oakland’s Jack London Square, and Berkeley, each offering a unique experience that combines expertly crafted beers with inviting atmospheres. Cellarmaker’s commitment to quality and creativity is evident in its diverse lineup, which includes popular offerings such as Dobis, a juicy pale ale, and Coffee & Cigarettes, a smoked porter infused with locally roasted coffee. The brewery’s dedication to freshness and innovation has earned it a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re enjoying a pint at one of their taprooms or picking up cans to go, Cellarmaker Brewing Company continues to be a standout in California’s craft beer scene.

#10 – Highland Park Brewery

Highland Park Brewery, founded in 2015 in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, has quickly become a favorite among craft beer fans. Known for its spacious taproom, full kitchen, and outdoor patio, it offers a welcoming spot to enjoy fresh beers brewed on-site. The brewery has earned multiple gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival, highlighting its quality and creativity. Popular beers include Timbo Pils, a West Coast Pilsner that balances crispness with bold hop flavors, and Hello, LA, a West Coast IPA with juicy tropical fruit notes. With a strong focus on innovation and community, Highland Park Brewery stands out as a key player in LA’s growing craft beer scene. Whether you live nearby or are just visiting, it’s a great place to try well-crafted, flavorful beers in a lively environment.

#9 – Pure Project

Pure Project, a San Diego-based brewery, has garnered recognition for its commitment to quality ingredients and sustainable practices. With multiple locations, including Balboa Park, North Park, Carlsbad, Miramar, and Vista, it offers a diverse range of beers that blend Southern California style with unique flavors. The brewery’s dedication to excellence was acknowledged in 2024 when it was named a runner-up for best brewery by The Beer Connoisseur magazine, with three of its beers featured in the magazine’s top 25 list, two of which received a “world class” rating . Popular offerings include Diamond Dust, a hazy IPA known for its juicy flavors, and Früt Riot, a hard smoothie made with tropical fruits. Pure Project also emphasizes community engagement through events like Wine Wednesdays and collaborations with local farms, reflecting its mission to be a force for good in the craft beer industry.

#8 – Green Cheek Beer Co.

Green Cheek Beer Co., founded in 2017 by Evan Price and Brian Rauso, is an independent brewery with locations in Orange, Costa Mesa, Sunset Beach, and Oceanside, California . Known for its commitment to quality and community, Green Cheek offers a diverse range of beers, including hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, and innovative hard seltzers. Popular selections include Like Super Profound, a Japanese-inspired rice lager, and Zombi Shark Fight, an Italian-style pilsner that won a gold medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival. The brewery also collaborates with local businesses, such as Heritage Barbecue, to create unique offerings like the Smoky Piña-rita, a smoked pineapple margarita-inspired hard seltzer. With a motto of “drink while smiling,” Green Cheek Beer Co. continues to be a beloved part of Southern California’s craft beer scene.

#7 – North Park Beer Company

North Park Beer Company, established in 2016 in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood, has quickly become a staple in the city’s craft beer scene. Known for its innovative brewing and commitment to quality, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Their flagship location at 3038 University Ave features a spacious taproom with a full kitchen, providing a welcoming environment for beer enthusiasts. North Park Beer Co. has garnered national recognition, being named among the top breweries in the United States by VinePair in 2023 . Popular offerings include the Hop-Fu! West Coast IPA, celebrated for its bold hop character, and the Bird Park Bohemian Pilsner, a GABF medal-winning lager known for its crisp and clean profile . With a focus on quality and community, North Park Beer Company continues to be a favorite destination for craft beer lovers.

#6 – AleSmith Brewing Company

AleSmith Brewing Company, founded in 1995 and located in San Diego’s Miramar area, is one of the city’s most respected craft breweries. Known for its large tasting room, AleSmith offers a welcoming space for beer lovers to enjoy fresh brews. The brewery has won numerous awards, including medals from the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup, showing its strong reputation for quality. Its popular beers include Speedway Stout, an imperial stout with rich coffee flavors, and .394 Pale Ale, named after baseball legend Tony Gwynn’s career batting average. AleSmith is known for combining tradition with innovation, consistently delivering well-crafted beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and serious enthusiasts. Their dedication to quality brewing and community involvement has helped them stay a top choice in San Diego’s busy craft beer scene. Whether visiting the taproom or enjoying their beers elsewhere, AleSmith Brewing offers something for nearly every palate.

#5 – The Bruery

The Bruery, founded in 2008 in Placentia, California, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, specializing in barrel-aged and experimental ales. Located at 717 Dunn Way, the brewery offers a spacious tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating, providing a welcoming environment for beer enthusiasts. The Bruery has garnered national recognition for its unique creations, including the acclaimed Black Tuesday, a bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout known for its rich flavors and high alcohol content. Additionally, their Goses Are Red, a gose-style ale infused with Syrah grapes, showcases their commitment to blending traditional brewing techniques with creative ingredients. With a focus on quality and innovation, The Bruery continues to be a significant player in the craft beer industry, attracting visitors from across the country to experience their exceptional offerings.

#4 – Bottle Logic Brewing

Bottle Logic Brewing, established in 2013 and located at 1072 N Armando St in Anaheim, California, has garnered a reputation for its innovative and bold approach to brewing. The brewery offers a diverse range of beers, including barrel-aged stouts, IPAs, and hard seltzers, catering to a variety of palates. Notable offerings include Darkstar November, a bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout known for its rich flavors, and Recursion, a West Coast IPA celebrated for its tropical fruit aromas. Bottle Logic Brewing has received recognition for its exceptional brews, including a silver medal at the World Beer Cup for Darkstar November and Cobaltic Porter . The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a standout in the Southern California craft beer scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Bottle Logic Brewing offers a unique and enjoyable experience for beer enthusiasts.

#3 – Sante Adairius Rustic Ales

Sante Adairius Rustic Ales, a small yet influential brewery in Capitola, California, has earned a dedicated following for its distinctive approach to brewing. Founded by Adair Paterno, the brewery specializes in barrel-aged and mixed-fermentation beers, often aged in wine barrels and fermented with wild yeasts. Their flagship location at 103 Kennedy Drive offers a cozy taproom experience, complemented by a dog- and family-friendly outdoor patio. Sante Adairius has garnered national recognition, including being named the 9th best brewery in the world by RateBeer in 2015. Popular offerings include Saison Bernice, a mixed-fermentation saison known for its peachy and floral notes, and Reasonable Reasons, a hazy IPA featuring Strata, Citra, and Mosaic hops, praised for its balanced bitterness and juicy profile. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation continues to make it a standout in California’s craft beer scene.

#2 – Monkish Brewing Co.

Monkish Brewing Co., founded in 2012 by Henry and Adriana Nguyen, is a renowned craft brewery located in Torrance, California. Initially focusing on Belgian-style ales, Monkish gained national attention for pioneering the New England-style IPA on the West Coast. Their Torrance taproom offers a diverse range of beers, including hazy IPAs, Belgian-inspired brews, and barrel-aged sours. Popular offerings include Foggier Window, a double dry-hopped IPA with Citra, Galaxy, and Nelson Sauvin hops, and Moonk, a triple IPA featuring Strata and Galaxy hops. Monkish’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a dedicated following and numerous accolades in the craft beer community. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, Monkish Brewing Co. provides a welcoming space to enjoy exceptional beers and experience the craft beer culture of Southern California.

#1 – Russian River Brewing Company

Russian River Brewing Company, established in 1997 and located at 725 4th Street in Santa Rosa, California, is a cornerstone of the craft beer community. Founded by Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo, the brewery is renowned for its hop-forward IPAs and innovative barrel-aged sours. Its flagship beer, Pliny the Elder, an 8% ABV double IPA, has garnered a dedicated following and is considered a benchmark in the West Coast IPA style. Another notable offering is Pliny the Younger, a triple IPA with an ABV of 10.25%, released annually and highly anticipated by beer enthusiasts. Beyond IPAs, Russian River excels in barrel-aged sours like Consecration, a dark ale aged in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels with currants, and Supplication, a brown ale aged in Pinot Noir barrels with sour cherries. The brewery operates two locations: the original Santa Rosa brewpub and a larger facility in Windsor, offering a range of year-round and limited-release beers, guided tours, and a pet-friendly beer garden.

California Beer Scene: The Heart of American Craft Brewing

California has played a major role in shaping what craft beer looks like today. It’s where Anchor Brewing helped spark the modern craft movement in the 1970s and where Sierra Nevada set a new standard in the 1980s. Since then, California has led the way in brewing innovation, hop-forward styles, and setting national trends.

With over 1,100 breweries, California has more than any other state. The beer scene stretches from San Diego to Sonoma and offers something for every taste. San Diego is known for bold IPAs and barrel-aged beers. The Bay Area brings a mix of old-school legacy and creative experimentation. And Los Angeles has exploded in recent years with new breweries pushing limits.

California breweries are known for their laid-back taprooms, strong connection to agriculture, and constant experimentation. Whether you’re drinking a hazy IPA in a beach town or a wild ale in wine country, you’re part of a state that takes craft beer seriously—but never too seriously.

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FAQs About California Beer

How many breweries are in California?
As of 2025, California has more than 1,100 breweries, the most of any state.

Which California breweries are the most iconic?
Anchor Brewing (San Francisco), Sierra Nevada (Chico), and Russian River (Santa Rosa) are a few of the most influential names.

What beer styles is California known for?
The state helped popularize the West Coast IPA—crisp, dry, and hoppy—as well as modern hazy IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, and sour ales.

Is California a good state for beer tourism?
Absolutely. From brewery trails in San Diego to hop farms in the Central Valley to wine-country beer spots in Sonoma, it’s a top destination for beer lovers.

Are California breweries pet- or kid-friendly?
Many are, especially those with outdoor patios. Brewery policies vary, so it’s smart to check ahead.