Colorado's Best Beer: Where To Buy And Enjoy

Colorado has a unique market for alcoholic beverages, with taprooms and tasting rooms that have become popular destinations for consumers and suppliers. The state has specific laws regarding the sale of alcohol, including where and when it can be purchased. Beer can be bought at bars and restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, breweries, and taprooms. Grocery and gas stations can sell full-strength beer between 8 a.m. and midnight, while bars and restaurants can sell beer from 7 a.m. to midnight. Package and liquor stores can sell beer, wine, or liquor from 8 a.m. to midnight.

Bars and restaurants

Colorado's bars and restaurants are also subject to rules regarding food service. They must provide food or snacks to patrons after 8 p.m. if they intend to continue selling alcohol. This rule is in place to promote responsible drinking and protect public safety.

The sale of alcohol in bars and restaurants is governed by the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division, which oversees licensing and enforces the state's liquor control laws. The agency is responsible for licensing, tax collection, auditing, fee collection, and enforcing regulations for manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of alcohol.

Colorado has a unique alcohol market, with taprooms and tasting rooms that have become popular destinations for suppliers and consumers nationwide. The state was an early leader in popularising craft beer and has since embraced the craft spirits category. As a result, Colorado's alcohol market attracts consumers and suppliers from across the nation.

Gas stations

Colorado's laws on alcohol sales in gas stations and other retailers are unique and differ from those in most other states. Before the recent changes, liquor stores were the only establishments allowed to sell beer, wine, and spirits. Grocery stores were previously only permitted to sell low-strength beer (3.2%), which few consumers bought. Now, grocery stores can sell full-strength beer, and a new ballot initiative is seeking to add wine to the list of approved products for sale in grocery stores.

The sale of alcohol in Colorado is regulated by the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division, which oversees licensing and enforces the state's liquor control laws. All businesses dealing with alcohol in the state must be licensed, and manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers must follow a federally regulated route to market.

Colorado has strict laws regarding alcohol, and penalties for violating these laws can be severe. It is important for residents and visitors to familiarize themselves with the state's liquor laws to avoid legal consequences.

Grocery stores

Until recently, grocery stores in Colorado could only sell low-strength beer (3.2% ABV), which very few people bought. However, a new law took effect on 1 March 2023, allowing them to sell full-strength beer. This law also permits grocery store employees aged 18 or older to sell beer.

In addition, a new ballot initiative is seeking to allow grocery stores to sell wine, which would bring Colorado in line with most other states.

Breweries and taprooms

Colorado is known for its thriving craft beer culture, and its taprooms and tasting rooms have become popular destinations for both suppliers and consumers. The state is home to a wide variety of breweries, from large, well-known brands to small, independent craft brewers. Each offers a unique selection of beers, ranging from classic styles to innovative experimental brews.

When visiting a brewery or taproom in Colorado, you can expect to find a range of options available for purchase. These may include:

• Packaged beer: Many breweries offer a selection of bottled or canned beers that can be purchased and enjoyed at home. These may include limited-edition releases or seasonal varieties.
• Draft beer: On-premises consumption is a key part of the brewery experience, with fresh beers available on tap. You can often purchase a flight or sampler to try a variety of styles.
• Growlers and crowlers: Some breweries offer the option to fill growlers or crowlers, which are large containers that allow you to take draft beer to enjoy at home.
• Merchandise: Breweries often sell merchandise such as t-shirts, glassware, and other branded items, allowing you to show your support for your favourite brewers.

In addition to the wide range of beer options, breweries and taprooms in Colorado often provide a unique and inviting atmosphere. From industrial-style taprooms to cozy brewpubs, each establishment has its own character. Many breweries also offer tours, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the art of craft beer.

When planning your visit to a Colorado brewery or taproom, it is always a good idea to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, as well as any special releases or events that may be taking place.

Package and liquor stores

In the past, Colorado's liquor laws were unique compared to other states. Before the new law, liquor stores were the only establishments permitted to sell beer, wine, and spirits. Grocery stores like King Soopers, Safeway, and Whole Foods were restricted from selling full-strength beer and were entirely barred from selling wine and spirits. This gave liquor stores a monopoly on beer, wine, and liquor sales.

However, recent changes to Colorado's liquor laws have impacted the market. A law that took effect on March 1, 2023, now allows grocery stores to sell wine, in addition to full-strength beer. This change has increased competition and provided consumers with greater convenience and pricing options.

Despite these changes, package and liquor stores remain a vital part of the alcoholic beverage market in Colorado. They offer a more extensive selection of products, including spirits, which are not available in grocery or convenience stores. For those looking to purchase spirits or a wider variety of beer and wine, package and liquor stores continue to be the primary option.

It is important to note that Colorado has strict laws and regulations regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol. The legal drinking age in the state is 21, and there are severe penalties for driving under the influence (DUI). These laws are in place to promote responsible drinking and protect public safety.

Frequently asked questions