Visiting Allagash Brewery

History

Created by founder Rob Tod, who saw a need for quality Belgian-style beer this side of the Atlantic, the Allagash brewery released its first brew in 1995. Allagash White, modeled after the wheat-based "white" beer of Belgium, was a hit, and Tod released a second beer, based on the techniques of Belgian Trappist Monks, soon thereafter. Using authentic brewing practices and inventive ingredients to create new beers in the Belgian tradition, the brewery's scale and offerings have continued to expand over the years. Today, the Allagash brewery brews seven yearly releases and numerous one-time batches in addition to its six year-round beers.

Tours

Discover the secrets behind one of Maine's best breweries in a free tour of the place where all the magic happens. Sampling tours of the brewery run three times a day during the week and twice on Saturdays or holidays, lasting about thirty minutes. Families are welcome, but Junior won't be able to sample anything without a valid I.D. Each tour begins with tastes of just a few of their award-winning beers and a history of the Allagash brewery. The upbeat tour guides will share plenty of ale trivia as you witness the beer-making process, and are sure to answer any of your questions about the unique techniques of this small craft brewery.

Famous Types of Beer

The beer that started it all at the Allagash brewery is also one of the most renowned. Allagash White, a light beer made with wheat, coriander, and Curacao orange peel, has won several awards, including more than one Gold Medal at the World Beer Cup. Try this Allagash favorite for a fruity, flavorful experience.

For a stronger brew with a full-bodied flavor, try the Allagash Curieux. Aged in Jim Beam bourbon barrels, this 11% ale has hints of vanilla and coconut—and, of course, bourbon. And because this award-winning beer is offered year-round, you'll never need to worry about running out.

The Allagash Victoria Ale, however, is offered on a limited yearly basis by the brewery, so get this one while you can. Fusing the worlds of wine and beer, the Allagash brewery created this innovative brew after a visit to Portland's historic Victoria Mansion. Inspired by the mansion's references to Bacchus, god of wine, this beer uses Chardonnay grapes in its recipe, which gives the ale a fruity, spicy flavor. Even better, the Allagash brewery donates all proceeds from the Victoria Ale to the museum inside the iconic mansion. Now that's one brew with a benefit.

One brewery not enough? Check out the other great bars in Portland.