Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, is often associated with wine country, but did you know it’s also a craft beer haven? Over the past decade, Santa Rosa has become a destination for beer enthusiasts looking to sample unique brews and experience the local craft beer scene.
Whether you’re staying in town for a weekend or just passing through, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the breweries that make Santa Rosa a craft beer hotspot. Here’s some of our favorite breweries within a stone’s throw of The Bolton House.
1. Russian River Brewing Company
No guide to Santa Rosa’s breweries would be complete without starting with the world-famous Russian River Brewing Company. Known for its cult-favorite Pliny the Elder and the even rarer Pliny the Younger, this brewery is a must-visit for any beer lover. The brewery offers a variety of IPAs, sour beers, and barrel-aged brews, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Location: 725 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA (0.9 miles from Bolton House)
What to try: Pliny the Elder (IPA), Supplication (Sour)
2. Hen House
This beloved craft brewery is known for its bold and inventive beers.From hazy IPAs to rich stouts, HenHouse is dedicated to creating quality beers with a focus on unique flavors and sustainability. The brewery also features a welcoming taproom where visitors can sample their latest creations, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy the vibrant craft beer culture of Sonoma County.
Location: 322 Bellevue Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (4 miles from Bolton House)
What to try: Best Life Blonde Ale
3. Shady Oak Barrel House
If you’re a fan of sour beers, Shady Oak Barrel House is the place to be. This brewery specializes in wild ales and barrel-aged sours that are bursting with complex, tart flavors. Shady Oak offers a rotating selection of innovative beers, each batch aged to perfection. Their taproom also has a cool, casual vibe, making it a fun spot to spend an afternoon.
Location: 420 1st St, Santa Rosa, CA (1.1 miles from Bolton House)
What to try: Farmhouse Saison, Wild West (Sour Ale)