The Breweries and Distilleries Trail

Craft Breweries to Explore

Little Rock's vibrant craft beer scene offers a diverse array of flavors and experiences for both casual drinkers and serious beer enthusiasts. The city boasts a growing number of craft breweries that reflect the area's unique character and taste preferences.

1. Lost Forty Brewing: As one of the most popular breweries in Little Rock, Lost Forty Brewing is known for its innovative and bold beer selections. Their premier brew, Love Honey Bock, is a must-try, offering a smooth, slightly sweet malt backbone with floral and honey notes. The brewery's rustic atmosphere, complete with a spacious patio, makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a pint or sample their rotating seasonal beers.

2. Diamond Bear Brewing Company: Diamond Bear is among the oldest craft breweries in Arkansas and is celebrated for its classic, German-style beers. Pale Ale, their flagship offering, has garnered numerous awards for its balanced profile and crisp finish. At Alehouse Restaurant, located adjacent to the brewery, visitors can enjoy freshly brewed beer with locally inspired pub fare, such as the tantalizing beer cheese soup.

3. Stone's Throw Brewing: Nestled in the heart of Little Rock's MacArthur Park Historic District, Stone's Throw offers a cozy taproom experience. This community-focused brewery features an eclectic beer lineup, including the Amber Ale, which pairs perfectly with their seasonal charcuterie boards. Stone's Throw also hosts a weekly Black Hops series, spotlighting unique and experimental brews.

Local Distilleries Offering Tours

In addition to craft beer, Little Rock has a delightful selection of local distilleries showcasing the artistry and passion of small-batch spirit production. Visitors can explore the processes and sample crafted spirits through informative tours.

1. Rock Town Distillery: As the first legal distillery in Arkansas since Prohibition, Rock Town has set a high bar with its award-winning spirits. Their exhaustive tour covers all aspects of production, from grain selection to fermentation. Spirited visitors can savor the Arkansas Bourbon Whiskey, known for its smooth, caramel-forward profile, or explore innovative offerings like the Bourbon Cream.

2. Core Public House: While best known for its beers, the Core Brewing Company's distillery branch offers a fascinating insight into the fine art of spirit-making. Their craft vodkas and gins are infused with distinctive local botanicals, making for intriguing tasting sessions. A tour at this venue often includes talks from the master distiller, who shares insights into the distillation process and flavor composition.

Pairing Drinks with Local Cuisine

Pairing local craft drinks with the rich flavors of Little Rock's cuisine can elevate dining experiences to new heights. Understanding pairing principles can enhance the appreciation of both beverages and dishes.

• Beer Pairings: Lost Forty Brewing's Love Honey Bock harmonizes well with spicy dishes, where the malt sweetness offsets the heat. It's a delightful complement to local Cajun dishes like jambalaya, balancing out spicy and herbal flavors. Meanwhile, the crisp, clean finish of Diamond Bear's Pale Ale complements tangy barbeque dishes, allowing the smoky and sweet sauces to shine without overpowering the palate.

• Spirit Pairings: The smooth texture and caramel richness of Rock Town's Arkansas Bourbon Whiskey pairs beautifully with chocolate-based desserts. Try indulgent pairings with chocolate ganache cakes or hearty dark chocolate brownies to savor a decadent symphony of flavors.

By exploring Little Rock's breweries and distilleries, and discovering perfect pairings, visitors can truly appreciate the city's dynamic food and drink landscape. This adventure through local craft beverages offers a taste of Little Rock's innovative spirit and hospitality.