The craft beer revolution in Paris is a relatively recent phenomenon. For many years, the French beer market was dominated by industrial lagers and pilsners, with little room for experimentation. However, in the last decade, there has been a surge in the popularity of craft beer, driven by a growing demand for high-quality, locally-produced beverages. This shift has been influenced by the global craft beer movement, as well as a renewed interest in artisanal products among French consumers.

Parisian craft breweries are known for their creativity and willingness to push boundaries. Many brewers draw inspiration from traditional French ingredients and techniques, resulting in beers that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the local culture. Additionally, the city’s vibrant food scene has played a significant role in the development of its craft beer industry, with many breweries collaborating with chefs and restaurants to create unique pairings and experiences.

Top Parisian Craft Breweries

Brewery Paname Brewing Company

Located along the scenic Canal de l’Ourcq, Paname Brewing Company (PBC) is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. Established in 2015, PBC has quickly become a staple in the Parisian craft beer scene. The brewery is housed in a former warehouse, providing a rustic and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

PBC is known for its diverse range of beers, which often incorporate local ingredients and flavors. One of their standout beers is the “Bête Noire,” a rich and complex imperial stout brewed with French chocolate and coffee. Another popular choice is the “Amiral,” a refreshing and hoppy IPA that showcases the best of French hops. In addition to their core lineup, PBC regularly releases limited-edition brews, ensuring that there’s always something new to try.

The brewery also features a spacious taproom and a beautiful outdoor terrace, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a pint. PBC frequently hosts events, such as beer tastings, live music, and food pairings, providing a lively and engaging experience for visitors.

Deck & Donohue

Founded by two friends, Thomas Deck and Mike Donohue, Deck & Donohue has been making waves in the Parisian craft beer scene since its inception in 2014. The brewery is located in the vibrant 11th arrondissement, an area known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops.

Deck & Donohue prides itself on producing high-quality, approachable beers that appeal to a wide range of palates. Their flagship beer, “Mission Pale Ale,” is a well-balanced and easy-drinking pale ale with notes of citrus and pine. Another popular offering is the “Monk,” a Belgian-style ale with a rich malt profile and subtle hints of spice.

In addition to their core beers, Deck & Donohue often collaborates with other breweries and local businesses to create unique and experimental brews. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal following and numerous accolades within the craft beer community.

The brewery’s taproom is a cozy and inviting space, perfect for enjoying a flight of their latest creations. They also offer guided tours and tastings, providing visitors with an in-depth look at their brewing process and philosophy.

Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or

Situated in the multicultural neighborhood of La Goutte d’Or, Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or is a brewery that truly embodies the spirit of its surroundings. Founded in 2012 by Thierry Roche, this brewery is known for its bold and adventurous beers that draw inspiration from the diverse flavors and ingredients of the neighborhood.

One of Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or’s most popular beers is the “Charbonnière,” a smoky and robust porter brewed with roasted barley and smoked malt. Another standout is the “Château Rouge,” a red ale infused with exotic spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom, reflecting the vibrant culinary traditions of the area.

The brewery’s taproom is a lively and welcoming space, often hosting events such as beer tastings, art exhibitions, and live music. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the brewery’s history, brewing techniques, and the inspiration behind their unique beers.

The Brewing Process: From Grain to Glass

Understanding the brewing process can enhance your appreciation of craft beer and give you a deeper insight into the artistry and science behind each brew. While each brewery has its own unique methods and techniques, the basic steps of brewing remain the same.

Milling

The brewing process begins with the milling of malted grains, usually barley. The malt is crushed to break open the grain kernels, exposing the starches inside. This step is crucial because it allows the enzymes in the malt to convert the starches into fermentable sugars during the mashing process.

Mashing

Once the grains are milled, they are mixed with hot water in a large vessel called a mash tun. This process, known as mashing, activates the enzymes in the malt, which break down the starches into simple sugars. The resulting liquid, called wort, is then separated from the spent grains.

Boiling

The wort is transferred to a kettle and brought to a boil. During this stage, hops are added to the wort to impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma to the beer. The boiling process also sterilizes the wort, ensuring that any unwanted bacteria or wild yeast are eliminated.

Fermentation

After boiling, the wort is rapidly cooled and transferred to a fermentation vessel. Yeast is then added to the wort, initiating the fermentation process. During fermentation, the yeast consumes the sugars in the wort and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide. This process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the style of beer being brewed.

Conditioning and Packaging

Once fermentation is complete, the beer is conditioned to allow the flavors to mature and develop. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as aging the beer in tanks, barrels, or bottles. After conditioning, the beer is filtered and carbonated before being packaged in bottles, cans, or kegs for distribution and consumption.

Beer Styles and Tasting Notes

Craft breweries in Paris produce a wide range of beer styles, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Here are some common beer styles you might encounter while exploring Parisian craft breweries, along with tasting notes to help you appreciate their nuances.

Pale Ale

Pale ales are known for their balanced flavors and moderate hop bitterness. They often feature notes of citrus, pine, and floral aromas, with a malt backbone that provides a hint of sweetness. Pale ales are versatile and pair well with a variety of foods, making them a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.

IPA (India Pale Ale)

IPAs are characterized by their strong hop presence, which imparts bold flavors and aromas of citrus, tropical fruit, and resinous pine. They can range from moderately bitter to intensely hoppy, with a higher alcohol content than pale ales. IPAs are perfect for those who enjoy a more assertive and flavorful beer.

Stout

Stouts are dark, rich beers with flavors of roasted malt, coffee, chocolate, and caramel. They can range from dry and bitter to sweet and creamy, depending on the brewing techniques and ingredients used. Stouts are often enjoyed as a dessert beer, pairing well with chocolate and other rich, sweet treats.

Belgian-style Ale

Belgian-style ales are known for their complex flavors and aromas, often featuring fruity esters, spicy phenols, and a malty sweetness. These beers can vary widely in color and strength, from light and refreshing to dark and robust. Belgian-style ales are typically bottle-conditioned, which means they undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in natural carbonation and a rich, effervescent mouthfeel.

Sour Ale

Sour ales are brewed using wild yeast strains and bacteria, which produce tart and tangy flavors. These beers can range from mildly acidic to intensely sour, with additional flavors of fruit, funk, and earthiness. Sour ales are often aged in barrels, which can impart additional complexity and depth to the beer. They are a great choice for those looking to explore more adventurous and unconventional flavors.

Beer and Food Pairings

One of the joys of exploring craft beer is discovering how well it can complement and enhance different foods. Paris, with its rich culinary heritage, offers endless opportunities for delightful beer and food pairings. Here are some classic combinations to try while visiting Parisian craft breweries.

Cheese

France is famous for its wide variety of cheeses, and many of them pair wonderfully with craft beer. For example, a hoppy IPA can cut through the richness of a creamy Camembert, while a malty Belgian-style ale can complement the nutty flavors of a Comté. Experimenting with different cheese and beer pairings can be a fun and delicious way to explore the local flavors.

Charcuterie

Charcuterie, or cured meats, is another staple of French cuisine that pairs beautifully with craft beer. A smoky porter or stout can enhance the savory flavors of smoked sausages, while a crisp pale ale can balance the richness of pâté. Charcuterie boards often include a variety of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, making them perfect for sharing and sampling with a flight of beers.

Seafood

Paris is home to many excellent seafood restaurants, and craft beer can be a great accompaniment to dishes like oysters, mussels, and fish. A light and refreshing pale ale or Belgian-style ale can complement the delicate flavors of seafood, while a sour ale can provide a bright and tangy contrast. Pairing beer with seafood can be a refreshing and satisfying experience, especially on a warm day.

Chocolate

For those with a sweet tooth, pairing craft beer with chocolate can be a match made in heaven. The rich, roasted flavors of a stout or porter can enhance the deep, complex flavors of dark chocolate, while a fruity sour ale can provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of milk chocolate. Exploring different chocolate and beer pairings can be a decadent and indulgent way to end a meal.

Conclusion

The craft beer scene in Paris is a testament to the city’s spirit of creativity and innovation. From the diverse range of beer styles to the unique and flavorful brews, Parisian craft breweries offer something for every beer lover. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring the craft beer breweries of Paris is an adventure worth undertaking.

As you visit these breweries, take the time to savor the flavors, learn about the brewing processes, and appreciate the artistry that goes into each pint. The world of craft beer is vast and ever-evolving, and Paris is quickly becoming a key player in this exciting movement. So raise a glass, and toast to the vibrant and dynamic craft beer culture in the City of Light. Cheers!