Image source: purebalboapark on instagram
San Diego is a mecca for craft beer lovers. With dozens of breweries scattered across the city, it can be hard to decide which ones are worth visiting. But don’t worry—I’ve done the legwork and scouted out the very best breweries that San Diego has to offer. This is the first of my new series: a beer enthusiast guide to exploring San Diego's best breweries.
Pure Project brewery is one of my absolute favorites in all of San Diego. They have locations scattered throughout the city (Carlsbad, Miramar, North Park, Vista) but my favorite one by far is their Balboa location. It's outdoor beer (and pizza) garden is the perfect setting for a romantic evening date or to simply enjoy some good brews on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
With San Diego's thriving beer scene, it can be difficult to decide which brewery you should visit. Not only is the taste, quality and ambience of each brewery important but also the mission behind them; what companies do you want to support and why? With so many options available in San Diego, it is essential that one takes into consideration not just the taste of their favorite brews but also how they align with your personal values.
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If you're looking for a brewery that is dedicated to sustainability and environmental protection, then Pure Project Brewery in San Diego should be at the top of your list. This business not only produces delicious beer, but they also take their commitment to sustainability seriously. From utilizing renewable energy sources, to reducing their carbon footprint and waste output, they are doing everything they can to lessen their impact on our planet. In addition, they have implemented initiatives such as composting spent grains and hops for local farms or donating used barrels to greenhouses in an effort to reduce landfill waste. For those seeking out environmentally conscious breweries that produce quality beer with an emphasis on sustainable practices, Pure Project Brewery is definitely worth recommending!
Now let's talk about the beer! The number one thing I think about when I think about Pure Project, is their amazing selection of Saison and Sour beers. This brewery puts in the work into their unique Saison and Sour beers that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!
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Living up to their mantra:
“For those who believe that quality ingredients and attention to detail matter. From grain to glass.”
They brew with the seasons using local and organic ingredients whenever possible, so let’s take a look at some of my top picks!
ELECTRIC DEPTHS
METHODE TRADITIONELLE W/ CHERRIES & RASPBERRIES 6.9% ABV
EVERYTHING GOLD MAY STAY BATCH 4
OAK BA GOLDEN FLANDERS SOUR W/ RASPBERRIES5.8% ABV
note* A sour beer tastes like a fizzy drink that is sometimes sweet, and sometimes has a bitter taste!
ROES RED
OAK BA FLANDERS RED ALE7.5% ABV10 IBU
note* A Red ale beer tastes like a mix between sweet and bitter. It has a rich, malty flavor and can have hints of caramel or toffee. For my barista, coffee lover soul :)
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FAMILIAR FACES
IMPERIAL STOUT W/ PUMPKIN SPICES AND COFFEE11.0% ABV
note* An imperial stout is a type of beer that is made with a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) and usually has a darker color. It typically has an intense, complex flavor profile that is rich and deeply roasted.
Food wise they partner up with local pizza restaurant URBN. The Balboa location, offers woodfire pizzas out in the beer garden and let me tell you, it's SUCH A VIBE!
Overall, this brewery always serves unique, and delicious brews and I highly recommend it! The vibes are cozy and inviting, making it an ideal place to hang out with your girls after work or spend a relaxing weekend afternoon. And if that wasn't enough, they also have an impressive retail space with fridges full of fresh craft beer you can enjoy at home or take to a dinner party with friends, trust me when I tell you, you will not be leaving empty handed!