Editors’ Choice
RiverWalk Brewing Co.
Newburyport
Just a few years ago, these brewers were making beer in a 3-gallon pot in a garage along the Riverwalk in Amesbury. Fast-forward to last year, when they were named one of
the fastest growing small and independent craft breweries around by the Brewers Association. Cans of popular favorites like their flagship IPA or the dark, lush Storm Door Porter are in quality packies around the state, but visit the taproom for something truly unique. You might just find your new favorite, like the bright, floral Trust Fall IPL (India Pale Lager), which has the distinction of being crafted by women and celebrates the Pink Boot Society, an organization dedicated to promoting women in the brewing industry.
40 Parker St., Newburyport, 978-499-2337 (BEER), riverwalkbrewing.com
Readers’ Choice
True North Ale Company
Ipswich
In their dizzying array of taproom-only selections, you might find a Meyer lemon witbier or a German sour alongside regular offerings like the Cerveza Mexican Lager and North Shore hazy New England–style IPA.
116 County Rd., Ipswich, 978-312-6948, truenorthales.com
Runner Up
Notch Brewing Co.
Salem
You won’t find monster 8 percent ABV brews here—only session beers clocking in at 4.5 percent and lower, so you can enjoy a few on a summer afternoon without embarrassing yourself.
283 Derby St., Salem, 978-238-9060, notchbrewing.com