It’s almost as hard to narrow down what makes a brewery great as it is to create a list of the city's best. Austinites are clear enough about their desire to hang outside with a cold drink. But does greatness come from perfectly executed classic brews or experimental signatures? How about appealing to beer fanatics versus accommodating friends who struggle with a strong IPA?

The only obvious answer is versatility, and all our Brewery of the Year nominees for the 2025 CultureMap Tastemaker Awards are overflowing with it.

Only one brewery can walk away with the coveted trophy at our Tastemaker Awards ceremony and signature tasting event on May 8 at Fair Market. Meet our eight nominees below, and consider scheduling some time to make a visit and order a flight.

Readers can see all of the Tastemaker Award nominees here and learn more about them in our special editorial series leading up to the big event.

A limited number of Early Bird tickets are still available at discounted rates of $60 for general admission and $99 for VIP (includes early access to the event and a dedicated bar). Prices will increase soon. Grab your tickets now, because this party will sell out — just like it does every year.

Prost to our nominees for Brewery of the Year 2025 in Austin:

Austin Beerworks
Austin Beerworks has one of the most recognizable beer lineups in the city, known for its brightly colored cans and a bold “A” emblazoned on the front. The Small Time is the perfect light beer for a social gathering, at only 3 percent ABV, while the hop-forward Fire Eagle American IPA has that classic punchy flavor that triumphs over some of Austin’s best IPAs.

Central Machine Works
This East Austin brewery takes what fans love about breweries — the openness, a chance to hang and spread out for no reason at all — and applies more maturity and sleeker design. (It makes sense that this place has an art gallery.) Whether guests spent their visit sipping a citrus-forward Hazy IPA or a creative Mango Sticky Rice Cocktail, they likely walk out talking about the pizza.

Fitzhugh Brewing
This family-friendly brewery is a fun place to visit while enjoying a day trip to Dripping Springs. Head brewer Nathan Rice likes to experiment with Fitzhugh’s rotating selection, which has produced innovative brews like the spring-inspired Texas Bluebonnet beer. His most recent release, the Japanese Kinako, is made with toasted soybeans and jasmine rice, and it’s fermented using sake yeast to develop its earthy yet refreshing flavor.

Hopsquad Brewing Co.
Most of this colorful North Austin brewery’s events calendar revolves around sports, but there are frequent wellness offerings and events that support the LGBTQ community, too. Core beers like the Architetto Ruffini Italian pilsner and Lord Zanate IPA go for balance and drinkability, while other creations employ adaptogens, THC, CBD, and more. Extra fancy cocktails from Hopsquad’s new sister bar further elevate the ever-expanding menu.

Live Oak Brewing Co.
Meat isn’t the only thing Austinites are smoking. (No, not the other stuff, either.) Live Oak’s smoked beers are some of its more interesting options, adding beechwood and oak flavors to its European brews. However, it’s the renowned Hefeweizen that draws most folks in. Once there, guests love the 18-hole disc golf course and beautiful natural surroundings.

Prost Alehouse Texas
Since its opening in late 2023, Prost Alehouse has solidified itself as a must-visit destination in downtown Pflugerville. Its Formula 1-themed decor matches its motorsport-inspired beer releases, like the Checo Mexican lager and the Renault French saison. The brewery has an extremely welcoming staff that hosts many regular events, such as watch parties, trivia, and lotería nights.

St. Elmo Brewing Co.
This popular Austin brewery opened its second taproom in East Austin in September, further expanding its reach from its South Austin roots. St. Elmo’s Carl Kölsch is essential for enduring the brutal Texas summers, while the Angus Irish stout is a mainstay for the milder months. Fruity brews like the Penelope Passionfruit sour and the Jimmy Peach blonde ale add unique flavors to the lineup.

Vacancy Brewing
Simplicity is key at this small South Austin brewery. Vacancy is known for its lagers, like the award winning Jet Lag that features German pilsner malt, wheat malt, and Citra and New Zealand Wai-iti hops; or the seasonal Pool Aid with electrolytes. The brewery could rest on its well-earned beer laurels, but the team is also well-known just for being nice — and that’s what really makes beer lovers hoppy.

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