Blackstone Brewing Co

Blackstone Brewing Company is a gem in Nashville’s craft beer scene, having been around since 1994. It’s the city’s oldest craft brewery and a must-visit for anyone who loves a good brew. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Nashville, this place is a delightful mix of history, culture, and, of course, fantastic beer.

History

Blackstone Brewing Company has been crafting exceptional beers for nearly three decades. They’ve racked up awards from prestigious events like the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup. One of their standout brews is the St. Charles Porter, an English-style porter with delicious notes of chocolate and caramel. In 2011, they upgraded to a 30-barrel brewhouse complete with its own bottling facility, making it a full-fledged brewing powerhouse.

How to Get There

You’ll find Blackstone Brewing Company at 2312 Clifton Ave, Nashville, TN 37209. It’s easy to reach by car, and there’s plenty of parking. If you’re using public transport, there’s a bus stop nearby. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also convenient options to get you there.

Things to See

1. Taproom: With 16 beers on tap, the taproom is a cozy spot to sample Blackstone’s award-winning brews.
2. Food Bus: This quirky 1989 Ford School Bus serves up classic beer pairings like burgers and fries or fish and chips, with daily specials to keep things interesting.
3. Bottling Facility: Visitors can check out the entire brewing process, thanks to the brewery’s own bottling setup.
4. Guided Tours: These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and the brewery’s history.
5. Historical Tours: Once a month, local historian Scott Mertie leads tours that explore Nashville’s brewing history from the 1800s to the 1950s.
6. Founders Tour: Co-founder Kent Taylor offers a private tour that’s perfect for beer enthusiasts and home-brewers, providing an in-depth look at the brewery’s operations.

Ticket Information

– **General Tours:** $10 per person, includes a souvenir pint glass and beer samples. Tours last about 45 minutes.
– **Historical Tours:** $15 per person, includes two 16-oz beers. These tours run for about 1.5 hours.
– **Founders Tour:** $30 per person, includes a detailed tour and beer sampling. This tour lasts around 2 hours.

Tips for Visiting

1. Dress Appropriately: The brewery isn’t climate-controlled, so dress for the weather.
2. Face Masks Required: Masks are needed upon entry.
3. Safety First: It’s an active production facility, so be careful and watch your step.
4. Beer Selection: Pick your beer in the taphouse 10 minutes before your tour starts.
5. Group Size: General tours accommodate up to 12 people, while the Founders Tour is limited to 10.
6. Booking Tours: It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially for larger groups.

Blackstone Brewing Company is a fantastic spot for anyone interested in craft beer and history. With its storied past, award-winning brews, and comprehensive brewing operation, it promises an unforgettable experience for both beer lovers and locals.