Denver's Ale Trail 🍻: A Hoppy Adventure

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[{"address":"Denver Beer Co. Platte Street","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.75812926321131,"longitude":-105.00730279999998},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJs2kmHut4bIcRkQyaPSHmobk"}},{"type":"text","content":"Ahoy, ye merry travellers! Brace yourselves for the second touchdown of our swashbuckling journey along Denver's Ale Trail 🍻: A Hoppy Adventure. Do you hear the divine call of frothy brews, the clink of clinking glasses, the laughter of happy patrons spilling forth? Look no further than the Denver Beer Co. on Denver's iconic Platte Street, a brew heaven nestled right along our trail. Can you guess what's so unique about this bustling brew house? Well, just like the Platinum Triangle of Broadway's thespians, this place is home to the Liquid Gold of Denver!\n\nNow, plunk yourselves down at one of those inviting picnic tables. As we sit here engulfing in the essence of craft beer brewing, imagine the rush of the founders, Charlie and Patrick, back in 2011 when they pursued their dream of turning their home-brewing hobby into a full-fledged business. Their mission, you ask? To serve the best dang beer in Denver. Cheers to that!\n\nBut wait, there's more. As you take a sip of that crisp, cold brew, can you taste that distinctive character? That's Colorado barley, my friends, and they make their beer entirely from it. In fact, Denver Beer Co. is one of the few breweries in the world to stay season-fresh. Their beer menu changes with seasons and harvests- Keeping it fresh and keeping you hooked!\n\nHere's a fun challenge for you. Let's play \"Aroma Roulette\". Take a moment, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and see if you can identify the distinct elements in your beer. Is it citrus you're sensing, or possibly raspberry, or is it clove-like phenolics? It's surprising what your senses can detect when you take a moment to relish!\n\nFor the love of trivia, do you know Denver Beer Co.’s brew, Graham Cracker Porter, bagged the prestigious gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival? It's an alluring, dark ale with a tinge of Colorado's wilderness. Don't forget to try this unique flavor, tagged as a \"campfire in a glass.\"\n\nDon't rush, enjoy, and once you've satiated your beer appetite, signaled you're ready to lace up your shoes and refill your belly with more Denver offerings. Next up we head to Jagged Mountain, remember to save room for a side of Venezuelan treats accompanying their bold brews 🌯. Let us toast one last time to great beer, great company, and an unforgettable Denver vibe before we continue our epic ale trail! 🌟 #DenverBrewCrawl\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/5055743/pexels-photo-5055743.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.75222341320853,"longitude":-104.99151260000001},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJvYxIWdl4bIcRUyEqYYTPM1Y"}},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome, everyone! Our next stop is the legendary Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery, the veritable Everest of Denver's Ale Trail. Can you believe that Jagged Mountain carries over twenty diverse, adventurous, and bold craft brews, right in this historic building? As a tech co-founder and beer enthusiast, it's fascinating to immerse into the ingenious craftsmanship behind each brew on all my visits.\n\nAs you observe your surroundings, you can't miss the reclaimed wood and steel-clad bar. Jagged Mountain's decor embodies that Colorado spirit, just like each beer they brew - daring, untamed, and a little wild. How about taking a moment to observe? Do you notice the differing nuances in this place compared to Denver Beer Co, our previous stop?\n\nNow, let's exercise our taste buds. I challenge each one of you to try their Wolfpack Black Saison, a dark, spicy Belgian-Style ale. Or for the brave souls wanting to flirt with danger, the 'First Descent'—an imperial red ale aged in Bourbon barrels. They say it’s the highest ABV beer in the whole of Downtown Denver. So who is up for the challenge?\n\nWhile we enjoy our tasting, let me share a fascinating fact about this gem—at Jagged Mountain, they believe in pushing boundaries and doing what hasn’t been done before. That's why they became the first Denver brewery to use Colorado Malting Company’s local malt. It’s the kind of trailblazery you'll only find on our Brew Crawl.\n\nWhile Jagged Mountain's bold flavors delight our taste buds, it's important not to forget the wonderful community aspect. As we stand here, appreciating beer's divine complexity, we're also a part of a thriving local institution. For those of you interested in the business side of things, it's worth noting that this brewery has become a gathering hub, fostering community ties, something we truly value at FreeGuides.\n\nAs a lover of all things culture, history, and beer, I can't help but get excited each time I set foot in a unique place like Jagged Mountain. Can you feel the vibrant energy mixed with the rustic charm around us? It really amplifies the craft beer experience, doesn't it?\n\nAlright, everyone, once you've taken in the incredible atmosphere and fantastic beer at Jagged Mountain, we're moving on to a little slice of iconography next - the Great Divide. So, gather around, signal when you're ready to continue on our hop-filled journey across this incredible city. Till then, let's raise a toast to Denver – a city that loves its beers adventurous, just like it loves its mountains – jagged and majestic. Cheers, everyone!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/159291/beer-machine-alcohol-brewery-159291.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"Great Divide Brewing Co","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.75370446320925,"longitude":-104.9883859},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJo_c5KN94bIcRf-MnunKDJug"}},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome, fellow beer enthusiasts, to the next stop on our Denver's Ale Trail: the iconic Great Divide Brewing Co! Did you know that it was rated as one of the 'Top 50 Breweries in America' for twelve consecutive years? How's that for a hoppy fact to kickstart your visit?\n\nAs we stand here, immersed in the heart-throbbing buzz typical of this local brewing hotspot, try and absorb the character of this place. With its casual charm and warm wood accents, Great Divide gives off a feeling of comfort not unlike the taste of its cozy, full-bodied brews.\n\nImagine it's 1994, and a fellow beer-enthusiast named Brian Dunn quits his boring job to give the city of Denver something they had been missing: character-filled beers. Working alone for the initial years, Brian crafted his beer with determination. His obsession turned Great Divide Brewing Co. into a beer wonderland renowned across the country!\n\nNow, it's time for some fun! If you were tasked with creating your own beer, what would you name it? Share with your fellow explorers for some laughs and who knows, you may just catch the ear of an enthusiastic brewer.\n\nWhen you walk through Great Divide, don't forget to check out the quirky quotes scattered on the walls. Noticing them is like a mini treasure hunt, and the prize? A hearty chuckle and a unique perspective towards beer making.\n\nAs we stand here, in the heart of Denver's brewing scene, I want you to savor the robust smells, a delightful fusion of raw materials and careful craftsmanship. It's a testament to Great Divide's commitment to creating quality craft brew that floods the senses.\n\nTake a sip of their Titanic Stout or mythical Yeti and notice the complex flavors dancing on your palate. As the rich taste of these unconventional ales lingers, remember, it is an echo of the city's vibrant beer culture, transcending beyond ordinary flavors.\n\nThe Great Divide Brewing Co. isn't just a brewery. It's a testament to persistence, risk, and a deep-seated love for beer. So let's raise a toast to Brian, a regular guy whose passion for beer led to a legacy recognized nationwide.\n\nOnce you've taken it all in, savored the flavors, and captured some memories, signal when you're ready to move forward. Our stomachs may be full, but there's plenty more hop-filled fun ahead as we continue down Denver's unforgettable Ale Trail. Our next stop? The harmonious blend of the old world and the new at Woods Boss Brewing.\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/1267361/pexels-photo-1267361.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"Woods Boss Brewing Company","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.750943963207945,"longitude":-104.9846215},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ26hhmSd5bIcR7PIWBk1RCvM"}},{"type":"text","content":"Ladies and gentlemen, let me welcome you to a hidden gem in the craft beer scene of Denver - Woods Boss Brewing Company - where the energy is as intoxicating as the brews themselves! Ever wondered about the story behind the name? Interestingly, the name \"Woods Boss\" refers to the leading person on a logging crew. But what's that got to do with a brewery, you ask? Keep that question ready as a delightful little nugget on the house for those curious minds.\n\nFrom our earlier stop at the Great Divide, you've tasted the bold flavors that characterize Denver's craft beer scene. As our trail hops into Woods Boss, you'll notice that this place exudes a different kind of charm. Look around, admire the wooden interiors which are reminiscent of an Old World beer hall, yet resonating with a modern, hip vibe. Now, let's slowly sip into the history of this place.\n\nWoods Boss is more than just a brewery, it's a symbol of sustainability. Imagine this, all the furniture you see around was hand-built by the owners themselves using reclaimed wood. Not just that, the taproom walls have been adorned by artwork from local artists. Doesn't it give you the sense of a strong community bond? You see, every element here has been designed to echo the vision of creating a harmonious blend between brewing and nature, just like a Woods Boss oversees harmony in the wilderness.\n\nFor those of you who have an explorer streak, I challenge you to find a peculiar feature of this place; a massive tree trunk that holds the taps. Have you found it? Quite an eye-catcher, isn't it?\n\nAs we stand here in this heartwarming brewing space, what really immerses you is the intoxicating aroma of brewing barley. If you're hungry for more than just beer, they serve amazing food pairings too. Try their homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Feller Belgian Golden Strong, the combination is truly inviting.\n\nThis unique place cultivates a sense of togetherness, something that brings a different flavor to Denver's Ale Trail. While you take it all in, I'll gladly answer any queries. Feel free to lose yourself in the magic of Woods Boss Brewing Company. Once you're ready, we'd hop over to our next stop, The Denver Central Market, for a gastronomical delight. But until then, enjoy your brew, cheers to the Woods Boss!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/1267700/pexels-photo-1267700.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"The Denver Central Market","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.75932281321187,"longitude":-104.98450485000001},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJJScW7h95bIcRje8-s9qYG4M"}},{"type":"text","content":"Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the heart of the city. As we turn the corner just up ahead, you'll see its beating pulse - The Denver Central Market! Can you smell it? That lingering aroma of freshly baked bread mixed with a whisper of roasting coffee? Or is it the gourmet cheese counter summoning you over? That's right, buckle up, my foodie friends because this stop is a real treat!\n\nWe've been exploring delicious ales along Denver's Ale Trail, but now, it's all about feasting at a revered Denver foodie destination. Have I told you about how this enchanting edifice came to be? Well, it used to be a simple deserted building until the day two culinary enthusiasts, Ken Wolf and Jeff Osaka, came along and decided to sprinkle some magic, bringing life to this now bustling food hall that debuted in 2016. It's fascinating how much flavor they've packed in these historically rich walls, isn't it?\n\nNow, as we make our way through the laughter and chatter, take a moment to soak in the sights and sounds. See the vendors around you? From artisan pizza, handcrafted gelato, to slow-roasted barbeque delights - they’re all little pieces of this organic puzzle that blend into a tasteful harmony. Go on, challenge yourself to guess the ingredients of that mouthwatering fragrance floating your way.\n\nHere at The Denver Central Market, there's a secret waiting to be unraveled at every nook and cranny - like the bakery counter, Izzio’s, named after owner Maurizio Negrini who hails from a long line of bakers tracing back to Italy in 1886. Now that's not something you handle casually, is it? Similarly, local stories and histories are baked into each corner here.\n\nAs we stand here, give the vibrant mural on the walls a closer look. It's by Denver artist, Forrest J. Morrison. A fun fact? The scene depicted is a fanciful clockwork interpretation of the cornucopia or the “horn of plenty,” symbolizing abundance in Greek mythology!\n\nOnce you've sampled the food and relished the art, savored a peek into history, let me know when you're ready to continue our journey. Next, we try a toast at Our Mutual Friend and Odell Brewing, sound good? Oh and keep an open mind, for we never know what unexpected twist awaits us in the tale of our next craft brew!\n\nKeep those spirit high! There's much more to discover and relish. Cheers, my fellow adventurers, to Denver's icon of gastronomy - The Denver Central Market!\n\nAnd remember, there’s no right or wrong food pairing on a brewery tour. After all, the joy that an ale brings you is similar to how you dissect the complexity of flavors when indulging in a meal – it's all about the texture, flavor, and experience. Happy discoveries!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/1089930/pexels-photo-1089930.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"Our Mutual Friend Brewing","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.76056316321246,"longitude":-104.98256554999999},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJwXUKCR95bIcRt-x24xExeKM"}},{"type":"text","content":"Gather round, everyone, and prepare your senses! Can you feel that? That's the bubbling energy of creativity that's always on tap here at Our Mutual Friend Brewing, our next stop on Denver’s Ale Trail. Is it just me or can anyone else already taste the delicious craft beer that Anticipate every beer geek's craving?\n\nSituated in the heart of one of Denver’s oldest neighbourhoods, Our Mutual Friend (often lovingly abbreviated as OMF) made its mark on the Denver community in 2012, seeking to curate not just flavoursome and innovative brews, but also meaningful experiences and a deeper connection to the craft. Though relatively young compared to some breweries, OMF has already won numerous awards including a Bronze medal at the Great American Beer Festival... and you'll soon find out why!\n\nAs we stand here, take a look around you. From the recycled wood tables to the walls adorned with local art, OMF is all about supporting local, pretty amazing, right? direct your eyes to that chalkboard, can you see the list of all the ingredients they've sourced from Colorado? They even share the love by assuring us that every grain used in their brewing process is recycled to a local farmer for feed. I think it's incredible how OMF is keeping it all in the 'family', don't you?\n\nDid you know that the name 'Our Mutual Friend' comes from a Charles Dickens novel? So while you're sipping on that aromatic Saison, imagine the intimate gatherings of the past, with animated conversations and laughter, where the brew maybe tasted a tad different but the mirth was just the same.\n\nNow, the hard part - the tasting. With a revolving tap list, there's always something new and refreshing to enjoy, from classics like their Proletariat Pale Ale to adventurous brews such as their Trendy Monk, a barrel-aged mixed-culture Brett beer. And if you're up for a challenge, try your hand at guessing the concoction of aromatic ingredients in your glass. I know a round is on me if anybody gets it spot on!\n\nBe sure to engage all your senses. Taste the craftiness that goes into every beer. Smell the lovingly sourced ingredients. Feel the warmth of this enclosed space that promotes friendship. Hear the light music in the background that sets the mood. And finally, feast your eyes on the detailed, yet chic interiors, and don’t forget to appreciate the local artwork adorning its walls.\n\nAs you finish your perfect pour, perhaps with some delicious food from the rotating food trucks outside, reflect on the loving craft and community spirit embedded in every bubble. Once you've swirled, sniffed, and savored to your heart's content, signal when you're ready to continue our journey.\n\nNext, we move on to the rustic yet contemporary Odell Brewing. Trust me; you're not going to want to miss their sours! Let’s raise our glasses and toast to this unforgettable Denver brew crawl!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/1267349/pexels-photo-1267349.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"Odell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.76209951321318,"longitude":-104.9808671},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJW7kEcvB5bIcRl5ji_aVrEIk"}},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome ladies and gentlemen to our next fabulous stop, the Odell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse. Can you smell that tantalizing aroma wafting through the air? That, my friend, is the scent of craft beer being brewed with passion and love!\n\nDo you know that Odell Brewing has a rich history dating back to 1989 when it first started as a small homebrewer's cooperative in Fort Collins? Ever since then, they've been brewing up unique blends and bold flavors that have delighted beer enthusiasts around the country. Now, don't you feel lucky to be standing right here where all the magic happens?\n\nNow, there's an amusing story that goes with this place. Back when Odell Brewing was a growing name, they had to swap over 100 cases of their famous 90 Shilling Ale for an old grain silo they needed. Talk about dedication and passion for one's craft! As we stand here, just imagine all those bottles being swapped, one by one, for that towering silo.\n\nFeel the energy and excitement in the air? I want you to take a moment. Look around and take in the neon signage, the rustic wood beams, and the gleaming brewery equipment that all make Odell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse such a vibrant and unique spot.\n\nThe hidden gem of this place is its marvelous rooftop patio. Here's a challenge for you: climb up there and try not to fall in love with the breathtaking view of the city. Don't forget to grab one of the exclusive-to-this-location brews and savor it as you take in the skyline.\n\nOdell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse is not only a beer lover's paradise, but it's also a testament to the city's unpretentious love for great beer and even better company. So mend your chats, create memories, and, let's not forget, enjoy some flavorful beers.\n\nNow, my friends, once you've experienced the vibe, savored the drinks, and delighted your senses, signal me when you're ready to continue our journey. Our next stop awaits us - the 14er Brewing, another gem in Denver's incredible Ale Trail! Let the Hoppy Adventure continue!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/1267684/pexels-photo-1267684.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]},{"address":"14er Brewing & Beer Garden","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.14475378507279993,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":39.7649885632145,"longitude":-104.98028699999999},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJW7kEcvB5bIcRl5ji_aVrEIk"}},{"type":"text","content":"Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to welcome you to our next alluring stop on Denver's Ale Trail: the splendid Odell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse! Can anyone guess why it's named 'Five Points'? That's right! This charismatic establishment is nestled in the heart of Denver's iconic Five Points neighborhood, a storied district known for its rich multicultural history.\n\nAs we stand here, nestled amongst the thriving urban expanse, you can almost feel the resonating pulse of an historic neighborhood that has nurtured jazz legends like Billie Holiday and moving personalities such as Jack Kerouac. And here we are, in the company of beloved artisan beers!\n\nNow, a fun fact about Odell - this innovative company is employee-owned! That's right! The passion and dedication poured into each pint isn't just for profit, it's personal. And what's more, Odell was the first craft brewery in Colorado to install a photovoltaic solar panel system on the roof – adding a sprinkle of sustainable energy into their brewing process.\n\nJust look around us and you can feel the energy, the dedication, and the passion that bubbles beneath the surface of this vibrant brewhouse. From its rustic brick walls resonating with the echoes of the city's history, to the festive murmur of patrons savoring top-quality craft beers, it's a tasting experience steeped in authenticity.\n\nNow for a little challenge! I want you to select one of Odell's diverse range of beers. Whether it's their popular '90 Shilling Ale', exotic 'Good Behavior', or something more seasonal, this is your chance to broaden your beer horizons. While you sip on your choice, try to pinpoint the different flavors. Any hints of citrus, caramel, or perhaps even a touch of pine?\n\nFor those interested in the culinary arts, did you know that brewing shares many similarities with baking? Both require precise measurements, meticulous timing, and a deep understanding of how ingredients interact. If you listen closely, you might overhear the brewers discussing malt profiles and yeast strains, just like bakers debating on dough consistency and yeast fermentation.\n\nOnce you've taken in the eclectic sights, sounds, and tastes of Odell, relished the craft of brewing, and perhaps even learned a little about solar energy and the art of tasting beer, signal when you're ready to continue our hoppy journey. I promise, the delights of Denver's Ale Trail are far from over. Summing it up, folks – fun, flavorful, and sustainable – that's Odell Brewing Five Points Brewhouse for you!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://images.pexels.com/photos/2707972/pexels-photo-2707972.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940"}]}]