Taste craft beer at Left Hand Brewing Company in Longmont Colorado

Have you ever wanted to taste a lineup of carefully brewed beers while learning what makes a Colorado craft brewery special?

Taste craft beer at Left Hand Brewing Company in Longmont Colorado

This article guides you through tasting craft beer at Left Hand Brewing Company in Longmont, Colorado, and helps you plan a memorable visit. You’ll get practical tips, tasting notes, pairing ideas, and suggestions for getting the most from the brewery experience.

Why Left Hand Brewing matters to craft-beer lovers

Left Hand Brewing has built a reputation for quality and consistency, making it a reliable stop for any beer enthusiast visiting northern Colorado. You’ll find a mix of year-round staples and creative seasonal releases that demonstrate a commitment to both tradition and experimentation.

A brief history of Left Hand Brewing

Left Hand Brewing was founded in 1993 and has grown from a small regional brewery into a brand recognized across the U.S. You’ll appreciate their early role in Colorado’s craft-beer scene and how they kept a focus on barrel quality and approachable beer styles.

Planning your visit

Planning helps you maximize your time at the brewery, whether you want a relaxed tasting or a full tour experience. This section gives practical details so you can arrive prepared and comfortable.

Location and contact basics

Left Hand Brewing Company’s main location in Longmont is easy to reach from Denver and other Front Range communities, and you’ll find clear signage directing you to the brewery when you arrive. Before you go, check the brewery’s official website or social channels for the most current information on hours and special events so you don’t miss anything.

Typical hours, tours, and reservations

Hours can vary by season and by special events, and the brewery sometimes offers scheduled tours, tastings, or special release events that require reservations. You should plan ahead if you want a guided tour or to attend a release party, as those activities can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

Getting there and parking

You’ll typically reach Left Hand Brewing by car, ride-share, or local transit, depending on where you’re coming from, and the brewery usually provides on-site parking or easy street parking nearby. If you’re driving, designate a sober driver or arrange for a ride home, because Colorado enforces strict DUI laws and the area can be busy on event nights.

Accessibility and family considerations

The taproom and most public areas are generally accessible, and staff can help you with seating or accommodations as needed to make your visit more comfortable. If you’re bringing children, confirm the brewery’s family policies—many breweries welcome families in the taproom but may restrict access during late-night events.

The brewery experience

A visit to Left Hand is more than drinking beer; it’s about learning how beer is made and sharing that story with friends. You’ll get a sense of the brewery’s personality in the taproom ambiance and in how the staff present beers.

Taproom atmosphere and seating

You’ll find the taproom is designed for relaxed socializing, with both indoor and outdoor seating that suits groups of different sizes. The atmosphere usually leans friendly and casual, with staff who can talk you through the beer menu and make solid recommendations.

Tours, tastings, and what to expect

If you join a guided tour, you’ll typically walk through production areas and learn about ingredients, fermentation, and packaging before tasting a selection of beers in the taproom. Tastings may be structured as flights or single pours, and you should expect to sample a range of styles that showcase both core beers and seasonals.

Taproom etiquette and tips

When you arrive, it’s polite to wait to be seated or to check in at the bar according to the taproom’s system, and you should be respectful of communal tables and other patrons’ space. You’ll get the best experience by asking staff for tasting suggestions and by pacing your sampling to enjoy the full range of flavors.

Left Hand signature beers and what to taste

Left Hand has several beers that frequently appear on tap and define the brewery’s approach. You’ll find these staples alongside rotating and limited releases.

Milk Stout Nitro: the flagship experience

Left Hand’s Milk Stout Nitro is a well-known beer that highlights smooth, creamy texture and subtle roast character, often served from a nitro tap for a cascading, velvet mouthfeel. When you taste it, look for chocolate and coffee notes with a gentle sweetness and a silky finish that many people find approachable even if they aren’t usually stout drinkers.

Core ales and lagers you’re likely to find

You’ll commonly encounter a balanced amber or pale ale and at least one crisp lager that shows the brewery’s ability to handle hopped styles and clean-fermented beers. These core offerings help you gauge the brewery’s consistency and brewing skill across different beer families.

Seasonal and special releases

Left Hand frequently releases limited-edition beers—these can be barrel-aged versions, collaborations, or highly hopped seasonal IPAs—and trying them gives you a sense of the brewers’ creativity. You should keep an eye on the brewery’s release calendar so you can plan to be there for a special event if a particular limited beer interests you.

How to taste beer like a pro at Left Hand

Tasting beer thoughtfully helps you notice nuances that make craft beer rewarding, and the taproom provides a perfect setting for this practice. You’ll get better at identifying flavors and textures by using a simple, repeatable approach.

A simple tasting method you can use

Start by examining the beer’s appearance, move on to the aroma with short and then deeper sniffs, take a small sip to coat your mouth, and then evaluate the finish and aftertaste. You’ll improve your palate over time by comparing beers side-by-side in a flight and by noting differences in bitterness, maltiness, and aroma.

What to look for in aroma and flavor

You’ll detect hop aromatics (citrus, pine, floral) in more hoppier beers and malt-forward notes (caramel, toast, chocolate) in darker or maltier styles; pay attention to carbonation level and mouthfeel as well. Consider whether the flavors are balanced or if one element dominates, and notice any off-flavors that might indicate a packaging or serving problem.

Using flights to compare styles

Flights let you sample several beers in smaller portions so you can compare a stout to a lager or a hop-forward IPA to a malt-forward amber without becoming overwhelmed. You’ll benefit from asking the server to arrange the flight from lighter to heavier flavors so your palate adjusts gradually.

Tasting notes and style guide (table)

This table gives an easy reference to common beer styles you’ll likely encounter at Left Hand, with quick tasting notes and ideal pairings to help you choose.

Style	Typical ABV Range	Key tasting notes	Suggested food pairings
Milk Stout (Nitro)	4.5–6.5%	Creamy mouthfeel, cocoa, coffee, mild sweetness	Chocolate desserts, smoked meats, soft cheeses
Amber/Pale Ale	4.5–6.5%	Toasty malt, balanced hop bitterness, caramel	Burgers, roasted vegetables, cheddar
Pilsner/Lager	4.0–5.5%	Clean, crisp, light biscuit or grain notes	Seafood, lighter salads, spicy foods
IPA (varied)	5.5–8.0%+	Citrus, pine, tropical fruit, resinous bitterness	Spicy dishes, grilled meats, bold cheeses
Barrel-aged/Special	Varies	Oak, vanilla, dark fruit, complex oxidation	Rich desserts, aged cheeses, charcuterie

You should use this table as a starting point when choosing a flight, because local variations and brewer intent can shift flavor profiles. Sampling along these lines helps you match your food choices and mood to the right beer.

Food options and pairing suggestions

A good beer tasting pairs well with food, both to cleanse the palate and to highlight complementary flavors. You’ll find on-site options at many breweries or food trucks nearby that work well with Left Hand’s beer lineup.

On-site food and nearby food trucks

Left Hand’s taproom often hosts food trucks or has partnerships that make it easy for you to order a meal alongside your beer. If on-site options are limited when you visit, there are usually local restaurants in Longmont where you can pick up something to bring back to the taproom if allowed.

Pairing by beer style (table)

This table helps you pair common beer styles with food to enhance both the beer and the meal.

Beer style	Why it works	Example pairing
Milk Stout Nitro	Creamy texture balances sweet or smoky flavors	BBQ brisket or chocolate cake
Amber/Pale Ale	Malt backbone complements roasted or caramelized flavors	Roasted chicken or caramelized onions
Pilsner/Lager	Clean finish refreshes the palate between bites	Oysters, sushi, or light fish tacos
IPA	Hop bitterness cuts through rich, fatty dishes	Spicy curry or blue cheese burger
Barrel-aged	Complex flavors stand up to bold desserts	Bourbon pecan pie or aged gouda

You’ll find that small changes in cooking technique or seasoning can significantly alter how a beer pairs with a dish, so feel free to experiment during your tasting.

Purchasing beer to go and packaging

If you enjoy a beer on-site, you’ll probably want to bring some home, and Left Hand typically offers several packaging options to make that easy. You should consider how soon you’ll consume the beer to choose the best packaging for freshness.

Growlers, crowlers, and packaged cans

Many breweries sell beer to-go in growlers (glass or stainless), crowlers (32-oz cans filled and sealed on demand), and pre-packaged cans or bottles for off-site sale. You’ll want to drink fresh-hopped beers sooner rather than later and store them cold and away from light to preserve flavor.

Rules, limits, and tips for transport

State laws and brewery policies may dictate container sizes, fill limits, or requirements for sealed containers, and staff will inform you of local regulations when you buy beer to go. If you’re flying or traveling a long distance, pack cans safely and check airline or transportation regulations ahead of time.

Seasonal releases, collaborations, and limited editions

Brewery creativity often shows up in limited releases and collaborations, and these beers can be some of the most exciting to taste. You’ll get a feel for the brewery’s experimental side by tracking what comes out seasonally.

How seasonal schedules usually work

Seasonal beers are often timed to ingredient availability or festival calendars—think light, refreshing beers in summer and darker, spiced styles in winter. You should expect the brewery to announce seasonal drops in advance and to release them through taproom events, retailers, or subscription channels.

Collaborations and special projects

Collaborations with other breweries, local businesses, or charities can produce unique beers that reflect shared creativity or a cause. You’ll often see these beers promoted heavily and sometimes only available in limited quantities, making them ideal for fans who like rarity and variety.

Events, live music, and community activities

Left Hand frequently hosts events that bring people together, providing extra reasons for you to time your visit around a special night. These gatherings can add a social and cultural dimension to your tasting experience.

Typical event types you might attend

You’ll find live music, trivia nights, release parties, brewery anniversary celebrations, and charity-focused events among the options, each offering a different vibe and crowd. Events can make the taproom busier and more festive, so plan for crowds if you prefer quieter tasting sessions.

Private events and group bookings

If you’re organizing a group visit, Left Hand often offers private event spaces or options to host gatherings at the brewery, and staff can explain package options for food and drink. You should book private events in advance, especially for popular times like weekends and holiday periods.

Sustainability and brewery practices

Many craft breweries adopt sustainable practices in brewing operations and packaging to reduce environmental impact, and Left Hand has engaged in measures that align with this trend. You’ll appreciate breweries that invest in energy efficiency, water conservation, and responsible sourcing.

Common sustainability initiatives

Efforts may include recycling spent grains by sending them to local farms, implementing energy-efficient equipment, and using recyclable packaging options like aluminum cans. When you ask staff about these practices, you’ll often get a quick tour or explanation that highlights their sustainability priorities.

How your choices matter as a visitor

You can support sustainability by returning growlers for reuse, recycling cans and bottles properly, and choosing beers packaged in recyclable materials. Your purchasing preferences and questions about sourcing can encourage breweries to continue investing in eco-friendly operations.

Nearby activities and places to stay

Longmont and the surrounding area offer additional attractions that pair well with a brewery visit, so you can plan a multi-stop trip that includes outdoor recreation and local dining. You’ll find lodging choices from boutique hotels to comfortable chain options within a short drive of the brewery.

Things to do in the local area

You can pair your beer tasting with a stroll through historic downtown Longmont, visits to other nearby breweries, or outdoor activities in the Rocky Mountain foothills. Planning an afternoon hike or a scenic drive before or after your brewery stop can make for a very satisfying day.

Where to stay if you’re making it an overnight trip

There are multiple lodging options near Left Hand Brewing, including small inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and larger hotels, depending on your preference and budget. You should book early during peak seasons or big event weekends to secure the best location and rates.

Tips for responsible enjoyment and safety

Enjoying craft beer is about quality as much as quantity, and you’ll have a better time when you approach tasting with moderation and attention to safety. Following a few basic guidelines keeps you and others safe while still making the most of the brewery visit.

Simple rules for responsible tasting

Pace yourself by ordering flights or smaller pours so you can savor multiple beers without overconsumption, and alternate beer with water to stay hydrated. Always arrange a designated driver, ride-share, or alternate transportation if you plan to consume alcohol away from the taproom.

Health and legal considerations

Be aware of alcohol laws in Colorado and the brewery’s own policies on service for minors and intoxicated guests, and bring ID if you might be carded. If you have dietary restrictions or medical concerns, let the staff know so they can help you make informed choices.

Frequently asked questions

This section answers common questions you might have before your visit, giving direct and useful guidance so you can plan effectively. You’ll find clear, concise answers to practical concerns.

Do I need a reservation?

You don’t always need a reservation for the taproom, but tours and special events often require booking ahead. If you’re visiting with a large group or want a structured tour, reserving a spot reduces the chance of disappointment.

Can I bring kids or pets?

Policies vary by brewery and by event; many taprooms allow children in family-friendly hours but restrict them during late-night events, and some outdoor areas may be pet-friendly. You should confirm the policy on the brewery’s site or by phone before bringing kids or pets.

Are there non-alcoholic options?

Left Hand and many guest taps often offer a limited selection of non-alcoholic beverages, like sodas or bottled water, and occasionally non-alcoholic beers. If you require a broader selection, bring your own non-alcoholic drink or ask staff about alternatives.

How long should I plan to stay?

A typical taproom visit lasts 45 minutes to two hours, depending on whether you’re doing a flight, a full meal, or taking a tour. If you plan to attend an event or have a late lunch, allow extra time for lines, seating, and socializing.

What’s the best time to visit for a quieter experience?

Weekday afternoons and early evenings are usually quieter than weekend nights, and you’ll often get more personal attention from staff during these hours. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, aim for weekend evenings or event nights when the taproom buzzes.

Final tips to make your visit memorable

You’ll get the most out of your time at Left Hand by combining curiosity with a few practical preparations, like checking the tap list online and arriving with comfortable footwear. Ask questions, try a flight that covers a range of styles, and take notes on what you enjoy so you can find similar beers later.

How to bring the experience home

If you find a beer you love, purchase cans or a growler to enjoy later, and consider joining any brewery membership or release notification lists to get early access to new beers. Sharing bottles with friends or buying a multi-pack from your local retailer spreads the tasting experience beyond your visit.

Conclusion

Visiting Left Hand Brewing Company in Longmont offers you a chance to taste well-crafted beers, learn about brewing, and enjoy a friendly taproom atmosphere. With thoughtful planning and an open palate, your tasting experience can become a highlight of a Colorado beer trip.