Cool Breweries in Natchitoches

The word “artisan” seems to be thrown around quite liberally these days and with good reason. Consumers want something a little different and the mass production of before doesn’t seem to hold as much weight anymore. Consumers want a unique experience when it comes to their food and beverages as well, which is why the artisan beers and ales hold so much weight. Natchitoches, Louisiana, is not far off when it comes to these demands and offers some unique breweries.

Great Raft Brewing

A team of young and inspired brewing artists has decided to combine their special talent and passion for a cold one to create one of Natchitoches’ finest brewing experiences. The brewery is based in Dalzell Street and offers patrons a delicious sampling of patience and dedication. Some of the options on tap include Mixed Feelings, which uses fermented saison in the mix. The brew contains fresh notes of lime and orange.

Another favorite is the Barrel Aged Old Mad Joy. This brew features a layered malt with hints of chocolate, coffee, and roasted barley. This is a Baltic porter that offers a dark shine and surprising fruitiness. The offers on tap change from time to time as these brewmasters hone their craft on the hunt for the perfect recipe.

Flying Heart Brewing

This venue, situated on Barksdale Boulevard, provides patrons with more than just a glimpse into the world of brewing. Comfortable seating and a fully kitted-out tasting room provide that extra special experience. The brewery also hosts special events from time to time to keep things fresh and exciting. They have a selection of brews to look forward to. These include the Firehouse Blondie, which is a delightfully fresh and crisp Kolsch-style ale. It offers guests a perfect balance between sweet and bitter, which makes it the ideal choice for a balmy summer day.

The Milk Maid Stout, on the other hand, provides a rich and creamy alternative to the regular brew. It’s dark, sweet, and rich and it offers a scintillating aroma of cocoa and espresso roast.

Red River Brewing Company

Marshall Street is home to the Red River Brewing Company, a modern brewing company with old-school values when it comes to the brewing process. The venue itself features plenty of space to sit back and relax while sipping on refreshing hops and barley. The unique approach to the fermentation process allows the brewery to come up with some of the freshest tastes around. Guests are spoiled for choice with brewing options. These include the Heliopolis, which is a light German lager. This is a refreshing burst for hot summer days.

The Penalty Bock is another favorite for those who like their lagers on the sweet side. For those who prefer something a little darker and perhaps slightly more bitter, there is the Hay Ryed.

Although there are many pubs and bars in Natchitoches, there are few that offer the full experience of an actual brewery. These breweries are big enough to provide a city with a constant supply of delicious brews but small enough to still have a personal touch.