Family-owned and Weedsport proud, Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Co. brews small-batch, hand-crafted beer in the historic Erie Canal village, where it opened in 2014 as Cayuga County’s first licensed brewery since Prohibition. Derric and Kristen Slocum have built the business around classic beer styles, creative seasonal experiments and a welcoming taproom experience that now includes wood-fired pizza, live music and a second taproom on Sodus Bay. Its beers have earned medals in the New York State Craft Beer Competition and other national competitions.
Steuben Brewing CompanySince 2014, brewer-owned and family-operated Steuben Brewing Company has made beer at its small farm brewery on the west side of Keuka Lake. Its Local Liquid series is brewed entirely with New York State ingredients, reflecting close relationships with the farmers and maltsters who grow and process its grain and hops. The Hammondsport taproom also serves as a community gathering place, hosting live music, rotating food vendors, and the Pedal for Pilsners cycling club.HAMMONDSPORT, NY
Willow Rock Brewing CompanyWillow Rock Brewing Company grew from Rockney Roberts and Kevin Williams’ 2015 garage brewery into a Syracuse-area beer maker with two Central New York taprooms. Its rotating pours are brewed locally and served alongside made-to-order pizza, with a neighborhood-minded atmosphere that includes free brewery tours, Brewer’s Hour, and regular community events. The company has also earned New York Craft Beer Awards medals and recognition through the New York Green Business Program.SYRACUSE, NY
Fulton Chain Craft BreweryFounded in 2014 by Adirondack friends Richard Mathy and Justin Staskiewicz, Fulton Chain Craft Brewery makes small-batch beer in Old Forge, where its 7-barrel production brewery supplies an Adirondack taproom and beer garden. The New York State farm brewery uses 100% New York hops and more than 85% New York grain, with head brewer Justin developing beers that range from the signature Go Fluff Yourself to seasonal releases. Its family- and dog-friendly gathering place also serves handcrafted cocktails and food for visitors heading out on the region’s trails, lakes, and winter routes.OLD FORGE, NY
Twisted Rail Brewing CompanyTwisted Rail Brewing Company grew from founder John’s home-brewing hobby into a Finger Lakes brewery opened in 2013, now run by Ian and his wife Megan. Its small-batch beer is made under New York’s farm-brewery license, with local sourcing built into the operation and spent grain returned to nearby farmers as livestock feed. The company also brews for New York businesses seeking private-label beer.CANANDAIGUA, NY