Homer, Alaska, famously known as "A small fishing village with a drinking problem," is more than just a quaint town with picturesque views and abundant fishing opportunities. It's a haven for those who appreciate the art of fermentation.
With an award-winning winery and two breweries in the Top 10 Alaskan Breweries on Trip Advisor, traveling our Fermentation Trail is one of the top things to do in Homer Alaska!
This hidden gem on the Kenai Peninsula offers a unique experience: the Fermentation Trail. This trail takes you through some of the area's finest breweries, meaderies, and wineries.
It is a must-visit for anyone seeking things to do in Homer, Alaska. Let's dive into the distinctive establishments that make up this flavorful adventure.
Grace Ridge Brewery
Innovation Meets Tradition
Grace Ridge Brewery is where innovation meets tradition. Inspired by the natural beauty surrounding Homer, this small-batch craft brewery offers a variety of unique brews that reflect Alaska's adventurous spirit.
Grace Ridge Brewery is known for special releases, such as Winter King Kolsch for Homer's 30th annual Winter King Salmon Tournament and Grapefruit Peony Hazy Double IPA, the release for Homer's 5th Annual Peony Celebration.
Each special release features a label by a local artist, and the release party, usually held on the First Friday of the event month, includes an artist meet-and-greet and display of their work.
Highlights:
Oystercatcher Stout: Nine years ago, this brew made its debut to the delight of locals and tourists. Fresh-picked oysters from Kachemak Bay ensure a taste of nature with every sip of this iconic stout.
Sadie Peak IPA: This IPA is a must-try for hop enthusiasts. It boasts a bold hop aroma and a balanced bitterness.
Community Vibes: The brewery is a local favorite for First Friday events, held on the first Friday of each month. A local artist is featured in the display hosted for the month.
Grace Ridge also hosts weekend pop-up events featuring local crafts. These events are a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals.
Food Truck: Pika Pika Bento is in the Grace Ridge Brewing and offers Japanese and Vietnamese-inspired dishes in the Grace Ridge Brewery.
Homer Brewing Company
A Tradition of Quality Craft Beer
Homer Brewing Company is a cornerstone of Alaska's local craft beer scene. Established in 1996, this brewery prides itself on producing unfiltered, unpasteurized beer, using traditional brewing methods emphasizing quality and taste.
Their brews are available at eateries throughout the Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage.
Highlights:
Beluga Brown Ale: A crowd favorite, this ale is rich with a malty backbone and notes of chocolate and caramel, perfect for those cool Alaskan evenings.
China Poot Porter: Named after a local area, this porter offers a deep, roasted flavor with a smooth finish.
Tasting Room Experience: The cozy, rustic tasting room, located off Ocean Drive, provides a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy your beer while chatting with the friendly staff and locals.
Sweetgale Meadworks & Cider House
Exploring Ancient Flavors
Venturing into the world of Mead and Cider, Sweetgale Meadworks & Cider House offers a delightful change of pace. Mead, often called the "nectar of the gods," is an ancient fermented beverage made from honey. Sweetgale combines this tradition with local ingredients to create unique and refreshing drinks.
Highlights:
Wildflower Mead: Made from local wildflower honey, this Mead is light, floral, and slightly sweet, capturing the essence of Alaskan summers.
Alaskan Apple Cider: Crisp and refreshing, this cider is perfect for a sunny day. It offers a balanced sweetness with a touch of tartness.
Tasting Flights: Their tasting room provides flights of Mead and cider, allowing visitors to sample a variety of flavors and find their favorite.
Shiva Shiva Boom, a food truck serving Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, is in Sweetgale Meadworks' parking lot.
Odin Meadery
Norse Mythology in a Glass
Continuing our Mead adventure, Odin Meadery brings Homer a touch of Norse mythology. This meadery draws inspiration from ancient Norse legends, crafting beverages that would make the gods proud.
Highlights:
Mjölnir Mead: Named after Thor's hammer, this Mead is solid and robust, with a bold honey flavor and a hint of spice.
Freya's Delight: A lighter, fruit-infused mead, perfect for those looking for something sweet and refreshing.
Charcuterie: Odin has a fantastic cheese and meat shop. You can select your favorite cheese and meat or purchase a carefully curated charcuterie board to accompany your flight of Nordic Mead.
Themed Events: Odin Meadery often hosts themed events with Viking costumes and storytelling, adding more fun to your visit.
Brian Odermatt, Odin Meadery's Artist in Residence for 2024, will be carving one-of-a-kind art pieces on Saturdays throughout the summer.
The Boatyard Cafe features Odin Mead Slushies on its summer menu.
Bear Creek Winery
Elegance in Every Sip
Homer's Fermentation Trail is only complete with a visit to Bear Creek Winery. Internationally recognized for its elegant fruit wines, Bear Creek Winery offers a sophisticated end to our trail of Things to do in Homer Alaska. Their wines, made from local fruits and berries, provide a taste of Alaska's natural bounty.
Highlights:
Alaskan Chardonnay: A unique twist on a classic, this wine is crisp and dry, with hints of apple and pear.
Raspberry Rhapsody: This sweet, fruit-forward wine captures the vibrant flavors of Alaskan raspberries.
Wine-making tours: Complimentary tours are available on Mondays and Wednesdays at 2 p.m. from mid-May through Labor Day and noon on Saturdays after Labor Day through mid-May.
Private Tastings: This 2-3 hour tour includes a winery tour, 6 pre-selected wines, and a charcuterie board. Reservations Required.
Beautiful Grounds: The winery's picturesque location, with gardens and scenic views, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Lodging: Bear Creek Winery has Luxury Lodging at the winery. Located just outside Homer, it's ideal for a Romantic Getaway.
Bear Creek Wines are served in fine dining establishments throughout Alaska.
Fun Things to Do in Homer Alaska
The Fermentation Trail in Homer, Alaska, offers a diverse and delightful journey through the world of locally crafted beverages.
From the traditional ales at Homer Brewing Company to the innovative brews at Grace Ridge Brewery, and the ancient allure of Mead at Sweetgale Meadworks & Cider House and Odin Meadery, to the elegant fruit wines at Bear Creek Winery, there's something for every palate.
Exploring this trail is one of the top things to do in Homer, Alaska. It showcases the town's unique charm and creativity and supports local businesses passionate about their craft.
So, next time you find yourself in Homer, set aside time to experience the Fermentation Trail - one of the many Things to Do in Homer Alaska. Your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How many breweries and meaderies are in Alaska?
Alaska has approximately 50 breweries and meaderies - and 10% of them are in Homer, Alaska!
How many wineries are in Alaska?
Alaska has four wineries. The Internationally Proclaimed Bear Creek Winery is located in Homer Alaska.
How do I get to Homer, Alaska?
There are several ways to get to Homer, Alaska. One of the most scenic routes to Homer, Alaska, is to fly into Anchorage's Ted Stevens International Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive the scenic 225-mile journey down the Sterling Highway or take a regional flight to Homer Airport. The drive offers breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and coastline.
Comments