Cigar city brewery tour
Today we talk about Cigar city brewery tour.
Cigar City Brewery Tour Overview
As an enthusiast of craft beers, I was thrilled to discover the vibrant Cigar City Brewery located in Tampa, Florida. This brewery, founded in 2009, has made a significant mark in the craft brewing scene, producing over 60,000 barrels of beer annually with a strong focus on quality and creativity. The anticipation grew as I approached the brewery, eager to immerse myself in the world of craft beer culture that so many have come to adore.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When I arrived, the energy in the air was palpable. At the Cigar City Brewery tour, I expected and witnessed:
- A welcoming atmosphere with dedicated staff ready to share their knowledge.
- Insightful discussions detailing the brewing process, including the impact of local ingredients, which they proudly highlight in their beers.
- A closer look at their state-of-the-art brewing equipment, showcasing a facility that has an impressive annual capacity of over 100,000 barrels.
- A tasting of at least five signature brews, while the average brewery tour offers just three, allowing for a more in-depth tasting experience.
On Tap: Featured Brews
The heart of any successful brewery is its beer, and at Cigar City Brewery, the lineup is impressive. Here are the brews that I found absolutely essential to try:
Jai Alai
This flagship West Coast IPA is truly a staple, characterized by its 7.5% ABV and a blend of tropical citrus aromas. I found myself captivated by its bold, hoppy flavor, which pairs well with spicy dishes or enjoyed solo during a warm afternoon.
Florida Man™
A strong and unapologetic Double IPA with an ABV of 8.5%, Florida Man™ offers layers of complexity that kept my palate intrigued. I recommend it for gatherings where you want to spark lively conversations with friends; it’s certainly a showstopper.
Maduro Brown Ale
In my experience, the Maduro Brown Ale stands out with its rich chocolate and caramel notes, making it a perfect choice on chilly nights, especially when paired with a hearty stew. Its 5.5% ABV made it manageable to sip and savor over hours of conversation.
Guayabera®
This 5.5% ABV pale ale is incredibly refreshing and has become my go-to during Florida’s humid summer days. Its light and crisp flavor complements salads and seafood beautifully, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Space Pope IPA
With an alcohol content of 6.8%, Space Pope IPA impressed me with its unique blend of hops and a distinct flavor that I can’t quite put my finger on. It’s a fantastic conversation starter when shared with fellow beer lovers!
Brewery Tours Offered
Cigar City Brewery provides several tour options to suit various tastes and interests.
Regular Tour Experience
This guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and provides a comprehensive overview of the brewing process, from raw ingredients to the finished product. On average, regular tours accommodate groups of 10 to 20 people, making it intimate yet informative.
Private Tour Options
For a more customized experience, I booked a private tour for a special birthday. This option allows for a maximum of 15 participants, which means I had the opportunity to ask detailed questions and enjoy exclusive tastings tailored to our group.
Special Events and Tastings
Cigar City often hosts seasonal events and specialty tastings. Their annual releases, such as “Guava Grove,” have seen ticket sales reach over 500, highlighting the local demand for unique beers and experiences. Participating in these events is a delightful way to relish their creativity.
Cigar City Brewing Amenities
The amenities at Cigar City Brewery enhance the overall experience for visitors.
Taproom Features
The taproom features a variety of seating options, allowing for intimate gatherings or larger get-togethers. It’s well-designed, with a capacity to host over 100 patrons, making it a popular spot in the local community.
Outdoor Seating Availability
The outdoor seating area is expansive and provides a laid-back atmosphere where I enjoyed sipping my brews while basking in Florida’s sunshine. I found the outdoor space a perfect venue for small group meet-ups or post-tour relaxation.
Food Pairings with Brews
Food plays an essential role in the brewery experience. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
Recommended Snacks and Dishes
- Soft pretzels with a side of jalapeño cheese sauce, which pairs excellently with the hoppy notes of Jai Alai.
- Barbecue brisket that complements the bold flavors of Florida Man™.
- Chocolate chip cookies that enhance the sweetness of Maduro Brown Ale.
Brews to Pair with Your Meal
For a fantastic experience, consider enjoying Guayabera® with grilled shrimp tacos or Space Pope IPA with spicy chicken wings. These combinations elevate the tasting experience, as I found out firsthand!
Visiting Details
If you’re planning to visit, here are some essential details:
Location & Hours
Cigar City Brewery is conveniently located in Tampa and operates seven days a week from 12 PM to 10 PM, making it easy to fit into my travel itinerary.
Accessibility Information
The brewery is fully accessible to everyone, with ramps and facilities tailored to ensure every visitor can enjoy the experience without difficulty.
Nearby Attractions
Enhance your brewery tour by exploring nearby attractions.
Must-See Spots Near the Brewery
I recommend checking out the Florida Aquarium and the Tampa Bay History Center, both within ten minutes’ drive, to further immerse yourself in the local culture.
Other Breweries in the Area
If you have the time, explore nearby breweries like Angry Chair Brewing and Tampa Bay Brewing Company. Each has its unique offerings and contributes to Tampa’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Reviews and Experiences
How does Cigar City Brewery fare in the eyes of its visitors?
Customer Testimonials
Many rave about the engaging guides and the knowledge they provide during tours; on review platforms, I’ve noted an impressive rating averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars. People frequently mention how memorable the experience is.
What Others Are Saying
Across social media and beer enthusiast blogs, common threads include the brewery’s community engagement and the quality of their craft beer, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit brewery.
Tips for Your Brewery Tour
To make the most of my visit, I found these tips helpful:
Preparing for Your Visit
Make a reservation ahead of time, especially for weekends when tours sell out quickly. I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a pre-tour brew.
What to Bring
Bring an ID for verification, comfortable shoes for walking during the tour, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler indoor areas.
Conclusion
Why You Should Visit Cigar City Brewery
If you have a passion for craft beer, the Cigar City Brewery represents an unforgettable experience. With unique brews, engaging tours, and a vibrant community spirit, it’s a location I highly recommend and one that has solidified my love for craft beer.
FAQ
Where is the original Cigar City brewery?
The original Cigar City Brewery is located in Tampa, Florida, where it was founded in 2009 and has continued to thrive since.
Who bought out Cigar City Brewing?
Cigar City Brewing was purchased by the Canarchy Craft Brewery Collective in 2018, which has allowed it to expand its reach while maintaining its unique Florida identity.
Does Cigar City Brewing have cigars?
While Cigar City Brewing specializes in craft beer, they reflect the cigar culture in Tampa through their branding and product names, but they do not manufacture cigars.
How long is Cigar City Jai Alai good for?
The freshness of Jai Alai IPA is best realized within six months of its original put on the market date. Always check the can dates for optimum flavor enjoyment.
