The best small-town craft beer scene in the nation is right here in Cody, Wyoming. That’s according to a recent USA Today poll.
With beers like Outlaw Justice Pale Ale, What’s My Name Again Dry Imperial Oreo Stout, New Wonderland Wheat and Jellystone Sour, Cody’s breweries are building a fine reputation for creative takes on regional suds, many made with local ingredients.
USA Today readers voted for their favorite beers from the pool of nominees chosen beer experts. Cody came out on top.
One of them – Cody Craft Brewing – is a recent addition to the craft brewing scene. It’s only been open for a little more than two years, but it was an overnight success. Brian Walker is the co-owner with his wife Jen. They tell USA Today that Cody is “punching above our weight class.”
Another is Pat O’Hara Brewing Company, the oldest of the bunch. It first opened in 2013 and was later bought out by former employees Norfleed Gifford and Ariel Fishman. Gifford dreamed of increasing the quality and number of offerings at the brewery while working as a server.
She made her dreams come true with the purchase and then the co-owners hired Alexandria Cain as the brewer. Cain immediately made big changes on the taps. There are now nine house brews on tap, all of which are Cain’s personal recipes.
Her top-selling beers are Pat’s Blue Ribbon Blonde Ale and Juni Ripper IPA, made with juniper berries.
Among the specialties is Pat’s Brew House, Wyoming’s first all-female owned and operated brewery. There’s the Taproom in Cody with a “pour-your-own” theme. And WYOld West, which opened its doors in Powell in 2016.
Park County Travel Council Executive Director Ryan Hauck said they have led the effort to lobby for Cody since first being contacted by USA Today that they were nominated for the award.
Hauck had previously introduced several “high-level” national media members to Cody’s nightlife through the Council’s Sippin’ Trail campaign; a journey through our region’s vibrant bar and restaurant scene with the Sippin’ Trail Drink Pass. The free pass offers the opportunity to visit numerous locally famous locations “boasting exceptional libations including brews,” according to the council while winning fun prizes.
Hauck said each of the breweries brings something different to the table.
“All four breweries bring a different kind of flavor and feel to this destination,” he said. “It gives us bragging rights for the next full year.”
This year should be a great opportunity to celebrate Cody brews when the Yellowstone Beer Festival is moved downtown to City Park on July 20. The festival draws in brewers from all over the U.S. and is attended by the region’s biggest craft beer fans, as well as visiting tourists to the city.
