Utah's Best Beer: Where To Buy The Good Stuff

If you're looking to buy good beer in Utah, you're in luck! The state offers a wide range of options, from local craft breweries to specialty wine and liquor stores. Here's a guide to help you navigate the beer scene in Utah:

Firstly, it's important to note that Utah has specific laws regulating the sale and consumption of alcohol. Beer with an alcohol content of 5% or lower can be purchased at most grocery and convenience stores, while higher alcohol content beers are available at state liquor stores. These state liquor stores are closed on Sundays and certain holidays, so it's important to plan ahead. Additionally, you must be at least 21 years old and provide valid identification to purchase alcohol in Utah.

When it comes to craft breweries, Utah has seen a boom in recent years, with many local breweries offering unique and innovative beers. Some popular breweries in Utah include Epic Brewing Company, Red Rock Brewing Company, Uinta Brewing Company, and Moab Brewery. These breweries sell a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, and more.

If you're looking for a wider selection, you can visit the breweries themselves, such as the Red Rock Brewery in Salt Lake City, or one of the state's specialty wine and liquor stores. These stores offer a diverse range of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits.

Utah also has a number of bars and restaurants that serve craft beers. However, it's important to note that tap beer in bars and restaurants is typically limited to 3.2% alcohol content, while bottled or canned beers may have higher alcohol content.

So, whether you're a fan of microbrews, German beers, or local craft beers, Utah has something to offer. By exploring the state's breweries, liquor stores, and restaurants, you're sure to find a good beer that suits your taste.

Liquor stores

If you're looking for a wide selection of beers in Utah, your best bet is to head to a liquor store. These stores offer a range of options, from German beers to local craft brews, and you can find them in most areas across the state.

Utah's liquor stores are operated by the state and offer a full line of liqueurs, wines, spirits, and some full-strength beers. There are over 50 state liquor and wine stores located in the more populated areas of Utah, such as Salt Lake City and Park City. These stores are generally open Monday through Saturday, with hours varying by location, and they are closed on Sundays and holidays.

In addition to the state-run stores, there are also over 100 Package Agencies located across the state. These are liquor outlets operated by private individuals or corporate entities and can be found in smaller communities, wineries, distilleries, breweries, resorts, and hotels.

When purchasing alcohol in Utah, it's important to note that you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID. The state also has strict DUI laws, with the limit set at 0.05%, so it's always a good idea to have a designated driver or use public transportation when drinking.

So, whether you're looking for a local microbrew or an imported beer, Utah's liquor stores have you covered. Remember to plan your purchase accordingly, as the stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, and always drink responsibly.

Grocery and convenience stores

In Utah, beer that is 5% ABV (alcohol by volume) can be purchased at most grocery stores and convenience stores every day of the week. These stores also sell beer that is 4% alcohol by weight.

There are over 100 package agencies across the state that sell a selection of beer, wine, and spirits. These are liquor outlets operated by private individuals or corporate entities under contract with the state. Package agencies are located in communities that are too small to have a state liquor store.

There are also three specialty wine stores in downtown Salt Lake City that sell limited-production wine, beer, and liquor with a diverse and constantly changing selection.

Breweries

There are plenty of breweries in Utah where you can buy good beer. Here are some of the top breweries in the state:

Epic Brewing Company

With multiple awards under their belt, Epic Brewing Company is one of the most popular breweries in Utah. They have a wide range of beers, including their signature Big Bad Baptist series, which features different variations such as the Double Barrel, Sextuple Barrel, and Chocolate Rapture. Their creative and experimental approach to brewing has earned them a dedicated following.

Red Rock Brewing Company

Red Rock Brewing Company is known for its diverse selection of beers, ranging from Belgian Pale Strong Ales to Russian Imperial Stouts. Their Paardebloem and Elephino are particularly well-regarded, and they have a strong lineup of seasonal and limited-edition beers as well.

Uinta Brewing Company

Uinta Brewing Company is a well-established brewery with a diverse portfolio of beers. Their Sea Legs Baltic Porter and Hop Nosh IPA are among their most popular offerings, and they also experiment with unique flavours, such as their Peppermint Patty American Imperial Stout.

Templin Family Brewing

Templin Family Brewing, or T.F. Brewing, is another highly-rated brewery in Utah. Their Ferda Imperial IPA and Albion Tripel are standouts, and they have a range of creative and innovative beers that showcase their brewing expertise.

2 Row Brewing

2 Row Brewing has a variety of beers on offer, including IPAs, stouts, and saisons. Their Feelin' Hazy and Dark Alley releases are particularly notable, and they often collaborate with other breweries to create unique and exciting beers.

Moab Brewery

Moab Brewery has been expanding its distribution of full-strength beers and is known for its range of IPAs and stouts. Their Black Raven Oatmeal Stout is a favourite among locals, and they also have a strong selection of seasonal releases.

Squatters - Utah Brewers Cooperative

Squatters is a well-known brewery in Utah, with a range of IPAs and stouts that have won multiple awards. Their Outer Darkness and Fifth Element beers are particularly popular, and they have a strong presence in both Salt Lake City and Park City.

In addition to these breweries, Utah is home to many other excellent craft breweries, such as Wasatch Brewery, Saltfire Brewing Company, and Kiitos Brewing, each with their unique offerings and interpretations of classic styles.

Restaurants and bars

When it comes to restaurants and bars in Utah, the alcohol laws are a little different. Alcoholic drinks can only be served with food, but at breweries or any beer-only establishments, food is not required to place an order.

For bars and clubs, anyone 21 or older with a valid ID can enter and drink, but customers under 21 are not allowed in the bar or lounge areas. Last call for alcohol is generally 1 am, and bars must close by 2 am.

If you're looking for a bar or restaurant with a wide selection of beer, you might want to try the following:

• Porcupine Pub & Grille in Salt Lake City
• Epic Brewing Company in Salt Lake City
• Beer Bar in Salt Lake City
• T.F. Brewing in Salt Lake City
• UTOG Brewing Company in Ogden

If you're looking for a specific beer, you can try the RateBeer website, which lists the best beers available in Utah's stores and restaurants.

State liquor stores

You can find a state liquor store near you by searching "liquor stores" on Google Maps, or by using the UT DABC App for Apple or Android.

• Big Bad Baptist (Epic Brewing Company)
• Monkshine and Ready Set Gose (Uintah)
• Hell's Keep and Hop Rising (Squatters)
• Paardableom and Elephino (Red Rock)
• Ghost Rider and Devastator (Wasatch)

Frequently asked questions