Maine Craft Beer Lovers Must Try These Aroostook County Brews

Maine is known as a state that produces great craft beer.

According to the Maine Brewers' Guild, as of early 2022, Maine had 165 active, licensed breweries, representing over 100 unique brands.

There is quality beer all over the state, including up in Aroostook County, in far northern Maine.

Up in Aroostook County, two of the breweries that stick out are Northern Maine Brewing Company and First Mile Brewing Company.

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Northern Maine Brewing Company in Caribou

Northern Maine Brewing Company, located on Main Street in Caribou, takes pride in using ingredients grown in Aroostook County.

"As we sat around one night drinking beer and brainstorming how we could grow our local economy, we came up with the crazy idea of brewing some great beers using local ingredients grown right here in Aroostook County," the company says on its profile on the Maine Brewers' Guild website.

Some of the company's brews include Farmers IPA (American IPA), River Driver Red (Red Ale), Windrower Wheat (Farmhouse Ale), and Skidder Grease (Stout).

First Mile Brewing Company in Fort Kent

First Mile Brewing Company is located on Market Street in Fort Kent, off the first mile of U.S. Route 1, in a converted grain warehouse.

"Using a 4-barrel brewing system and 8 taps we produce a wide range of beer styles for a 'something for everyone' approach," the brewery says on the Maine Brewers' Guild website.

Their beers can be found in bars, restaurants, and grocery stores around northern Maine.

Some of their popular brews include Valley Haze (New England IPA), River Valley Haze (New England IPA), La Creme Biere (Creme ale), Harry Porter (English Porter), and First Snow (Imperial IPA)

Read more: Here Are 5 Bangor-Area Breweries You Need to Check Out

When it comes to Maine craft beer, the Portland area has the most breweries and is known as a great area for beer lovers.

There are fewer breweries up north, but Northern Maine Brewing Company and First Mile Brewing Company offer some quality brews.

If you live up north or are in the area visiting, make sure to check them out.

Are there any northern Maine breweries you love? Feel free to share and leave a comment. Cheers.