Maine Ranks #2 State in the Nation With the Most Breweries

If you've ever sipped a frosty pint in Northern New England, you'll likely understand why the region boasts a bustling beer scene. And if you're familiar with the brewing landscape here, it won't come as a shock that Maine has secured the runner-up position in the national brewery count per capita.

According to Vinepair.com, the top spot for breweries per capita goes to Vermont, our neighboring state, which flaunts a staggering 15.59 breweries per capita, totaling 78 breweries in all. But we are not far behind here in Maine, with an impressive 14.16 breweries per capita and a grand total of 154 breweries statewide as of 2022. That said, every year sees a display of new breweries popping up, so it's likely that number is even higher now. That's a lot of options for a state with a population more famous for lobsters and lighthouses.

What's driving this beer boom in our Pine Tree State and our neighboring Green Mountain state? Well, for one, locals in both states take pride in supporting their homegrown businesses, and breweries are no exception. Whether it's a cozy taproom in Portland or a rustic brewery tucked away in the mountains of Vermont, there's a passionate sense of community surrounding these establishments.

Maine and Vermont breweries have a penchant for creativity and innovation, helping to make it quite the fertile ground for beer entrepreneurs to thrive.. From wild ales aged in oak barrels to hop-forward IPAs bursting with flavor, there's no shortage of experimentation happening, and brewers here aren't afraid to push the boundaries, constantly exploring new flavors, styles, and brewing techniques to keep beer lovers coming back for more.

I also don't want to leave out our neighbors in New Hampshire. They rank quite impressively as well at #8, showing that Northern New England has affirmed our status as a beer destination worth raising a pint to. Cheers!