One would expect a state as passionate about cuisine as Louisiana to be equally passionate about how to wash it down. And like its world-acclaimed food, Louisiana is ready to share its homegrown beverage of choice—craft beer—with the world.
Since its inception in 2013, the Louisiana Brewery Trail has grown to over 30 breweries statewide. The highest concentration of brewers is in New Orleans and the area north of Lake Pontchartrain—what we call the Northshore—about a half-hour north of New Orleans. But you’ll find craft brewers in both booming cities and small towns in every corner of the state!
Take a tour and spend some time talking with their owners and their brewmasters (often the same person). They often talk in an unfamiliar lingo, giving details on choosing ingredients and efforts to source them, the various processes that go into the actual brewing, scrupulous timing and other details. You’ll walk away having gained knowledge about the brewing process and an appreciation for the exceptional attention to detail that goes into each vat, keg, can and bottle.
Frequently the brewmasters go back to our passion for food and their passion to accent it as brewers. For example, Karlos Knott, the founder of Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville, will be the first to tell you he intentionally formulated his pale ale, Bière Pâle, to go with Louisiana cuisine, particularly seafood. Bayou Teche is also one of the breweries that features an onsite restaurant. If you’re looking for a bite with your brew, try Port Orleans in New Orleans, Red River Brewing in Shreveport, or Broken Wheel Brewery in Marksville.
Other popular Louisiana Brewery Trail stops include Abita Brewing Company in Abita Springs, Tin Roof Brewing Company in Baton Rouge, Gnarly Barley in Hammond, Parish Brewing Company in Broussard, Flying Tiger Brewery in Monroe, Crying Eagle Brewing Company in Lake Charles and so many more.
Travelers flock to Louisiana to eat our cuisine, dance to our music and pass a good time. The Louisiana Brewery Trail is Louisiana’s way of filling in the missing piece in “eat, drink and be merry” for locals and visitors alike.
For more on Louisiana’s breweries, plus information on the state’s distilleries and wine producers, visit Libations.LouisianaTravel.com.
