The Top 30 Breweries in New Mexico Ranked

New Mexico’s craft beer scene has grown into one of the most exciting in the Southwest, with breweries offering everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and creative small-batch releases. The state is home to a mix of long-established names and newer spots that have quickly built a strong following. In this guide to the best breweries in New Mexico, we’ll highlight standout locations across Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Las Cruces, and other towns. Each one is chosen for quality, consistency, and the experience it gives visitors, whether you’re stopping in for a pint or picking up cans to go.

This list is built with both locals and travelers in mind. It gives you an easy way to see which breweries are worth your time and why they’ve earned a place in the conversation. We focus on what makes each place unique, from their popular beers to the atmosphere that keeps people coming back. This article serves as a reliable starting point for anyone looking to enjoy the best breweries New Mexico has to offer.

#30 – Dripline Brewery

Dripline Brewing in Albuquerque is one of the newer names in New Mexico’s craft beer scene and has already built a loyal following. Since opening in November 2024, it has become known for approachable beers and a space that feels inviting to both locals and visitors. Their Le Chat Roux, a red-tinged ale, is a standout that many keep asking for. Another well-liked beer is Super Bloom APA, which showcases a crisp pale ale style. The brewery also features a large outdoor garden with plenty of seating and games like cornhole, bocce, and pétanque, making it a great place to spend time with friends. Inside, the taproom has a bright and modern look, with house beers served alongside guest taps from other New Mexico breweries. Dripline Brewing is already a must-visit stop in downtown Albuquerque.

#29 – Kaktus Brewing Company

Kaktus Brewing Company in Bernalillo is a small brewery that has earned a strong following among craft beer fans. Since opening in 2013, it has focused on brewing high-quality, small-batch beers using German-made equipment that allows for crisp, clean flavors. Among its offerings, Helles Lager is a light and refreshing beer perfect for those who enjoy approachable lagers. Puddle Stomper IPA is another popular option, providing a balanced hop profile that appeals to fans of hoppy beers. The brewery features a cozy taproom with both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a welcoming space for friends to gather or for visitors to relax. Kaktus Brewing also rotates its selections regularly, giving customers a chance to try new beers throughout the year. Its focus on quality and community makes it a notable stop in New Mexico’s growing craft beer scene.

#28 – Turtle Mountain Brewing Company

Turtle Mountain Brewing Company, established in 1999, is a key part of Rio Rancho’s craft beer scene. The brewpub has become known for its approachable beers and welcoming atmosphere. Among its offerings, Hopshell IPA is popular for those who enjoy a balanced, hoppy flavor, while Wooden Teeth is another favorite that appeals to a wide range of beer drinkers. The brewery features a friendly taproom and patio seating, creating a relaxed space for locals and visitors to gather. Turtle Mountain also focuses on pairing their beers with good food, which has helped them maintain a strong community presence. Their dedication to quality and variety has allowed them to expand and continue serving craft beer enthusiasts in the Rio Rancho area. Whether stopping by for a pint or spending an evening with friends, Turtle Mountain Brewing Company provides a reliable craft beer experience.

#27 – Rowley Farmhouse Ales

Rowley Farmhouse Ales, established in 2016, is an independent brewery and gastropub located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Specializing in rustic farmhouse and sour-style beers, the brewery focuses on traditional methods and small-batch production. One of their standout beers is Germophile, a Berliner Weisse-style ale known for its tart and refreshing taste that has helped the brewery gain recognition among craft beer enthusiasts. Another popular option is Tea for Two, a mixed-culture fermented saison brewed with Earl Grey tea, offering subtle fruity and spicy notes. Rowley Farmhouse Ales frequently experiments with seasonal and limited-edition beers using local ingredients, offering unique flavors throughout the year. The taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed environment for locals and visitors to enjoy these distinctive brews. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and approachable beers, Rowley Farmhouse Ales has become a respected name in New Mexico’s craft beer community.

#26 – Second Street Brewery

Second Street Brewery, founded in 1996, has become one of Santa Fe’s most established breweries. With multiple locations including the Rufina Taproom and The Railyard, it has built a reputation for approachable beers and a community-focused atmosphere. One of its most popular offerings is the 2920 IPA, which balances hop character with smooth drinkability. Boneshaker Amber is another favorite, known for its malty backbone and subtle caramel notes. The brewery also features a full kitchen at each site, serving food that pairs well with its beers, and often hosts live music and events that bring locals and visitors together. Over the years, Second Street Brewery has continued to grow while maintaining its focus on quality and consistency. Its wide range of beers and welcoming spaces make it a reliable stop for anyone wanting to experience Santa Fe’s craft beer culture.

#25 – Thirsty Eye Brewing Company

Thirsty Eye Brewing Company in Albuquerque is known for blending craft beer with art and community. Located in the historic Huning Highland district, the brewery features a cozy taproom, an outdoor patio, and an adjoining gallery that hosts regular exhibits from local artists. Among its beers, El Drac IPA stands out for hop lovers, while Citrus Buzz Honey Wheat is a lighter option with refreshing notes. Thirsty Eye also supports the local scene through live music nights and rotating art shows, making it more than just a place to enjoy beer. Its commitment to creative brewing and fostering community connections has helped it earn recognition as one of Albuquerque’s standout small breweries.

#24 – Sierra Blanca Brewing Company

Sierra Blanca Brewing Company, founded in 1996, is one of the oldest craft breweries in New Mexico. Originally located in Carrizozo, it later moved to Moriarty where it continues to brew a wide range of beers. Alien IPA is one of its most popular offerings, recognized for its hop-forward flavor. Another favorite is De La Vega Pecan Ale, which highlights nutty notes inspired by local ingredients. The Moriarty location features a half-acre beer garden with activities such as bocce ball, horseshoes, and a gazebo by a pond, creating a family-friendly space to enjoy a pint. Visitors can also find their beers served at the Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room in Ruidoso, which pairs food with Sierra Blanca’s house brews. With a mix of tradition, variety, and community atmosphere, Sierra Blanca Brewing Company has earned a lasting place in New Mexico’s craft beer scene.

#23 – Comanche Creek Brewing Company

Comanche Creek Brewing Company is a family-owned microbrewery located just outside Eagle Nest, up in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Northern New Mexico. It sits at high elevation and uses mountain water in its brewing process, which helps give the beers a crisp and clean taste. They rotate up to ten beers on tap throughout the year, including seasonal styles and small-batch brews. Two of the popular regulars are Homestead Amber, known for its malt-forward and easy-drinking character, and Gold Rush Kolsch, a lighter style that is smooth and refreshing on warm days. The taproom has large windows that look out toward mountains and meadow, a roomy porch with views, and outdoor games like horseshoes and cornhole. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food. Comanche Creek Brewing blends good beer, natural beauty, and a relaxed setting, making it a standout stop when traveling through Northern New Mexico.

#22 – Canteen Brewhouse

Canteen Brewhouse is one of the longest-running craft breweries in Albuquerque, first opening in 1994 under a different name before adopting its current identity. It has built a reputation for a wide range of styles, from lagers and ambers to hop-forward IPAs and dark ales. Among its well-known beers is Dougie Style Amber, which is praised for its balance of malt sweetness and hop character. Another favorite is Exodus IPA, recognized for bold citrus and tropical hop notes. The spacious taproom and patio offer a relaxed setting where guests can enjoy live music and regular community events. Canteen Brewhouse also serves a food menu with casual dishes that pair well with its beers, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors. Its consistency and variety have helped it remain an important part of New Mexico’s growing craft beer community for decades.

#21 – Differential Brewing Company

Differential Brewing Company sits at 500 Yale Blvd SE in Albuquerque and focuses on beers that are easy to drink without sacrificing flavor. One of their house beers, Bluecorn Cream Ale, uses locally sourced blue corn for a light and refreshing taste. Another popular beer is Extra Pale Ale, which leans toward citrus and mild bitterness but stays gentle overall. Their taproom offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including two large outdoor areas for sunny evenings and weekend gatherings. Differential Brewing is a go-to spot for drinkers who want something approachable and well made in a relaxed setting.

#20 – Flock of Moons Brewing Company

Flock of Moons Brewing Company is a neighborhood brewery and taproom located in Albuquerque’s Bricklight District near the University of New Mexico. All of its beers are brewed on-site, and the tap list usually features around fifteen selections that range from lighter lagers to hop-forward IPAs. Retrograde Rebel IPA is one of their standout beers, offering bold hop character, while Bandada de Lunas Mexican Lager has become their most requested and approachable option. The brewery also serves rotating seasonal and limited releases, giving visitors new flavors to try throughout the year. Guests can enjoy their beer inside the cozy taproom or outside in the secluded beer garden. Food trucks stop by often, and patrons are welcome to bring food from nearby restaurants. With its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and consistently fresh beer, Flock of Moons Brewing Company has earned a strong following in Albuquerque’s growing craft beer community.

#19 – Truth or Consequences Brewing Company

Truth or Consequences Brewing Company is a craft brewery based in downtown Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, with a second taproom in Las Cruces. It opened around 2016 and has become known for its friendly atmosphere, live music nights, and community-oriented events. Their beer selection tends to lean toward approachable ales and lagers. Two popular beers are Street Taco Lager, which reflects local flavor, and Monticello Green Chile Amber, featuring a twist with local chile. The main taproom in Truth or Consequences operates with food brought in from nearby restaurants or food trucks, since there is no full kitchen on site. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available and the setting is pet friendly. With its mix of good beer, live entertainment, and a relaxed vibe, this brewery has become a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike.

#18 – Bathtub Row Brewing Co-Op

Bathtub Row Brewing Co-Op opened in 2015 and has become a community hub in Los Alamos. Often called “The Tub,” it operates as a member-owned cooperative where locals can purchase lifetime memberships that provide benefits such as discounts and voting rights. Popular beers include New Mexi Lager, a light and approachable option, and Hoppenheimer IPA, which is known for its hop character. The brewery also offers other rotating beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Its taproom at Central Park Square provides both indoor seating and outdoor space with a firepit, creating a comfortable setting for gatherings. Over the years, the co-op has expanded its brewing system to meet demand while maintaining its focus on quality. Regular events such as live music and seasonal beer releases add to its appeal. Bathtub Row Brewing Co-Op is one of the few cooperative breweries in the country and remains deeply connected to its community.

#17 – Taos Mesa Brewing Co.

Taos Mesa Brewing Co. in Taos is known for pairing good beer with a lively community atmosphere. It has two locations, the Tap Room downtown and the larger space on Hondo Mesa called The Mothership, which is popular for its live music, mountain views, and open sky setting. Beer lovers often enjoy Kolsch 45, a crisp German style ale, and Mesa IPA, which delivers a balanced hop character. Some beers are made with locally grown grains through its “Grain to Glass” program that supports New Mexico farmers. With its mix of craft brewing, live entertainment, and scenic surroundings, Taos Mesa Brewing Co. has become a favorite for both locals and visitors.

#16 – La Reforma Brewery

La Reforma Brewery blends Mexico City-style food with craft beer and house-distilled spirits in Albuquerque. Their menu centers on street tacos, tortas, burritos, and quesadillas using tortillas made in-house daily, and their beer lineup spans Mexican lagers and style-driven ales. Two beers people often talk about are La Ref Lager, a crisp Mexican lager brewed with Tettnanger hops and a touch of corn sweetness, and Maximilian, a Munich Dunkel that draws in fans of darker lagers. In addition to their core beers, they offer seasonal and experimental releases like a chocolate stout infused with cacao nibs and chile, and a hazy IPA variety. The space has colorful Mexican-inspired decor, indoor seating, a patio, and a full bar that features their cocktails made with their own distilled agave, rum, and vodka. La Reforma has earned a reputation for pairing solid beer with top-tier food and creative drinks in a lively, casual setting.

#15 – Three Rivers Brewery

Three Rivers Brewery in Farmington has been a local favorite since 1997 and is housed in the historic Andrews Building downtown. The brewery has grown into a full complex with a restaurant, pizzeria, tap and game room, and a brewstillery lounge that produces spirits alongside beer. Their lineup offers a wide range of styles, with popular choices like Papa Bear’s Golden Honey Ale, a light golden ale brewed with honey malt, and Arroyo Amber, a copper red ale featuring Amarillo hops. Guests can also find rotating beers such as dark lagers, IPAs, and seasonal releases that keep the tap list fresh. The atmosphere is welcoming, with spaces designed for groups, families, and community events, making it more than just a place to drink beer. Three Rivers has built its reputation on variety, consistency, and its strong connection to the local community.

#14 – Tractor Brewing Company

Tractor Brewing Company started in 1999 in Los Lunas before moving to Albuquerque, where it has grown into one of the most recognized breweries in the state. The brewery now operates multiple taprooms across the city, including locations in Nob Hill and Wells Park, and is known for combining craft beer with a strong community presence. Two of its well liked beers are Farmer’s Tan Red Ale, a smooth red ale with caramel malt flavor, and Almanac IPA, which offers a balanced hop profile. Tractor also produces a wide variety of other beers giving visitors plenty of choices on tap. This combination of variety, accessibility, and community focus has made Tractor Brewing a popular name in New Mexico.

#13 – Quarter Celtic Brewpub

Quarter Celtic Brewpub in Albuquerque mixes good craft beer with hearty Celtic food in a welcoming neighborhood pub setting. They brew many styles in house and serve traditional fare like Irish stew, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and other Celtic classics. Two beers many people enjoy are Pedro O’Flanagan’s Mexican Lager, known for its clean, balanced lager taste, and Mor-Buck IPA, appreciated by hop lovers for its bold hop character. Also popular are Crimson Lass Irish Red Ale and MacLomas Stout. The space is casual with both indoor and outdoor seating, and the menu supports the beer with comforting food that pairs well. Between its variety of beer styles, friendly atmosphere, and strong food offering, Quarter Celtic Brewpub stands out among Albuquerque’s brewpubs.

#12 – Sidetrack Brewing Company

Sidetrack Brewing Company opened on New Year’s Day 2016 and quickly built a reputation for good beer served in a relaxed and welcoming space. Located in a renovated 1940s building near downtown Albuquerque, it features a comfortable taproom and a dog friendly patio that has become popular with locals. Two beers often highlighted are Basecamp IPA, known for its strong hop flavor with citrus and tropical notes, and Shinobi Rice Lager, a clean and crisp option for those who prefer lighter beers. The brewery frequently partners with local food trucks and hosts small community events that add to the neighborhood atmosphere. With its combination of quality beer, friendly service, and inviting environment, Sidetrack Brewing Company stands out as a go to spot in Albuquerque’s craft beer scene.

#11 – Boxing Bear Brewing Company

Boxing Bear Brewing Company has grown into a well known Albuquerque brewery with multiple taprooms that combine creative beer styles and a relaxed setting. Two popular choices are Uppercut IPA, a hop forward beer with a clean finish, and Chocolate Milk Stout, which has a smooth blend of roasted malt and chocolate flavors. At its taprooms, guests can enjoy a full kitchen menu with pizzas and other casual food options that pair well with the beer. The atmosphere is friendly and laid back, with both indoor and patio seating that invite customers to stay and spend time with friends. With its combination of consistent core beers, seasonal creativity, and approachable spaces, Boxing Bear Brewing Company has secured a strong place in Albuquerque’s craft beer community.

#10 – Nexus Brewery

Nexus Brewery & Restaurant has become a well known Albuquerque spot by pairing craft beer with New Mexican and Southern inspired food. Since opening in 2011, it has expanded to include its main location on Pan American Freeway NE and a second site called Nexus Blue Smokehouse on Broadway SE. Two popular beers are Honey Chamomile Wheat Beer, which combines light wheat character with floral notes, and Imperial Cream Ale, a smooth and balanced option that has helped define the brewery’s lineup. Nexus also produces seasonal releases that appeal to regulars looking for variety. The food menu includes fried chicken, gumbo, smoked meats, and other dishes that bring together Southern and New Mexican flavors. The Blue Smokehouse location focuses heavily on barbecue with meats smoked on site using pecan and hickory. With its combination of quality beer, hearty food, and community atmosphere, Nexus Brewery has earned a loyal following.

#9 – Gravity Bound Brewing Company

Gravity Bound Brewing Company is a small brewery and taproom in downtown Albuquerque that earns praise for both creative beers and a strong sustainability focus. They catch rainwater for landscaping and grow some ingredients on-site. Among their standout beers are Quick Take, a hazy IPA that won the 2022 New Mexico IPA Challenge, and Nightly Ritual, a Mexican dark lager that draws people in when they want something smooth and easygoing. The brewery keeps its offerings rotating, so you’ll often find goses, fruit sours, and fresh hop brews alongside lagers. Their taproom features indoor and outdoor seating plus regular food trucks, making it a laid-back spot to try beer with friends. With quality, variety, and environmental care, Gravity Bound stands out in Albuquerque’s craft beer scene.

#8 – Bosque Brewing Company

Bosque Brewing Company opened in 2012 and has since become one of the largest and most recognized breweries in New Mexico, with taprooms in Albuquerque, Bernalillo, Las Cruces, and Santa Fe. The brewery is known for a wide range of styles that appeal to different tastes. Two popular beers are Elephants on Parade, a wheat ale brewed with raspberry and tart cherry, and Scotia, a Scotch Ale with rich malt and caramel notes. Other well received beers include Scale Tipper IPA and Riverwalker IPA, both staples for hop lovers. Each taproom offers a welcoming space with indoor seating, patios, and some locations featuring full kitchens that serve food alongside the beer. Bosque also keeps a steady rotation of seasonal releases and collaborations that add to the variety. With its combination of consistent core beers, community focus, and growth across the state, Bosque Brewing Company plays a major role in New Mexico’s craft beer scene.

#7 – Marble Brewery

Marble Brewery has been a staple in Albuquerque since 2008, well known for brewing high quality classic and seasonal beers and for spreading out with multiple taprooms around the city. Two of its most popular beers are Double White, a hazy Belgian-influenced wheat ale with notes of orange peel and traditional spices, and Desert Fog, a hazy IPA combining pineapple and grapefruit aromas. The brewery also makes Cerveza, their take on a Mexican-style lager built for patios and warm days. Because of its mix of dependable beers, friendly taproom spaces, and commitment to both core and seasonal offerings, Marble Brewery remains one of New Mexico’s go-to craft breweries.

#6 – Steel Bender Brewyard

Steel Bender Brewyard is located on 2nd Street in Los Ranchos, just north of Albuquerque, and combines a full kitchen with a wide lineup of house beers. A well known favorite is Compa Blue Corn Lager, which uses New Mexico blue corn to highlight local flavor, and another is Skull Bucket IPA, a hop forward beer that has become one of their most popular offerings. The brewpub has a welcoming space with indoor seating, a dog friendly patio, and views of the Sandia Mountains. Steel Bender also distributes its beers and ciders across New Mexico, making them easy to find in stores and bars throughout the state. The brewery often collaborates with others in the region and continues to add seasonal and experimental releases to its tap list. With its mix of creative brewing, good food, and comfortable setting, Steel Bender Brewyard has built a strong following.

#5 – Bombs Away Beer Company

Bombs Away Beer Company is a veteran-owned brewery and taproom in Albuquerque’s Skyline Heights neighborhood. It opened in 2017 and was built with a lot of care, using handcrafted furniture and fixtures. With sixteen taps available, you’ll find many styles from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs. Two beers that are local favorites are Proximity Pilsner and 10 Seconds to Helles. The taproom feeling is relaxed and comfortable with a spacious patio, and the brewery sees strong support from veterans and locals alike. Their approach leans into quality over quantity, especially when producing lagers, which have become defining beers for them. Whether you’re stopping by after work or looking for a place to enjoy a quiet evening, Bombs Away delivers solid beers in a welcoming space.

#4 – Santa Fe Brewing Company

Santa Fe Brewing Company, founded in 1988, is the oldest craft brewery in New Mexico and continues to be a leader in the state’s beer scene. It is best known for popular releases like Happy Camper IPA and Santa Fe Pale Ale, both widely enjoyed for their balanced flavors. Other standout beers include 7K IPA, which is one of its top sellers, and Chicken Killer Barley Wine, known for its strong malt character. Starting out in a small horse barn in Galisteo, the brewery later moved to a larger facility near Santa Fe, where it now operates with modern brewing and canning systems. Over the years, it has added multiple taprooms such as The Beer Hall at HQ, The Bridge, the Eldorado Taproom, and The Brakeroom. These spaces are known for their mountain views, live music, and relaxed settings, making Santa Fe Brewing a go-to spot for locals and travelers.

#3 – Ex Novo Brewing Company

Ex Novo Brewing Company opened its Corrales, New Mexico location in 2019 and has since added a taproom and restaurant in downtown Albuquerque. They are known for a wide range of beer styles, from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs. Two popular choices include Dusty Spur American Pilsner, valued for its clean and refreshing profile, and Mass Ascension IPA, a bold and smooth IPA that has become a favorite. The Corrales site features a brewery, taproom, and beer garden set on three acres, often hosting food trucks and community events. The Albuquerque location pairs their beers with New Mexican dishes, a cocktail bar, and café-style options, making it a versatile spot for locals and visitors.

#2 – Bow & Arrow Brewing Company

Bow & Arrow Brewing Company is an Indigenous- and women-owned brewery founded in 2016 in Albuquerque, now considered the first of its kind in the U.S. under that ownership. Their beers often celebrate Native culture, local ingredients, and wild yeast. Two standout brews are Denim Tux Pilsner, made with blue corn sourced from the Pueblo of Santa Ana, and Scenic West Hazy IPA, a juicy and hop-forward beer that has become one of their most popular offerings. The brewery also explores sours, mixed culture farmhouse ales, and foeder-aged beers that feature regionally harvested ingredients like sumac, lavender, peach tree yeast, and wild hops. Their main location features a beer hall, communal seating, patio with a wood-burning fire pit, and regular events like food trucks and live music.

#1 – La Cumbre Brewing Company

La Cumbre Brewing Company opened in 2010 in Albuquerque and has become one of New Mexico’s most well known breweries. It offers two taprooms (the main one on Girard Blvd NE and a Westside location on Coors Blvd NW) where people can try its year-round and seasonal beers. Among its regular beers, Elevated IPA is a flagship IPA famous for its hop intensity and won a gold at the Great American Beer Festival. Another popular one is Azulito Blue Corn Mexican Lager, brewed with blue corn, which offers a lighter alternative for those preferring refreshment. The lineup also includes styles such as stouts, pale ales, and rotating experimental IPAs. Taprooms are casual and welcoming, with rotating food trucks, indoor and patio seating, and space for groups and dogs. Because of its strong core beers, variety, and community-minded vibe, La Cumbre is often cited as a top brewery in New Mexico.

Brewing Roots and Revival: How New Mexico’s Beer Scene Came to Be

New Mexico’s brewing history goes back more than a century. In the 1880s, towns like Las Vegas and Socorro had breweries such as Leining & Rothgeb and Hammel Brewery that served their local communities. These early establishments were important not only for beer but also for producing and storing ice, which was vital in that era. Many of them closed in the early 1900s and did not return after Prohibition, leaving a long gap before modern brewing began to take shape.

The state’s beer culture saw real growth in the late 20th century. Craft breweries started to appear in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and beyond, building momentum for what has now become a thriving industry. Local brewers began experimenting with styles and ingredients unique to the Southwest, often using native crops or drawing inspiration from the desert climate. The creation of the New Mexico Brewers Guild gave breweries a unified voice for advocacy and helped shape the state’s modern beer landscape.

FAQs About New Mexico Breweries

Are there many breweries outside Albuquerque and Santa Fe?

Yes. Breweries can also be found in towns like Ruidoso, Red River, Carlsbad, and Las Cruces.

What kind of license do you need to open a brewery in New Mexico?

You need either a Small Brewer or Craft Brewer license issued by the New Mexico Alcoholic Beverage Control Division.

Can breweries serve wine or cider as well?

Yes. State law allows breweries to also serve wine and cider with the proper licensing.

Is homebrewing allowed in New Mexico?

Yes, homebrewing is legal for personal use, but selling homebrewed beer without a license is prohibited.

Do New Mexico breweries win national awards?

Yes. Breweries like Marble Brewery and others have earned medals at the Great American Beer Festival.