The Best Seasonal Craft Beers in Portland, ME

A flight of seasonal craft beers from a Portland, ME brewery with autumn leaves.

Jan 21, 2026

Category
News

Key Takeaways

Taste the Calendar: Portland brewers use the changing seasons as a creative canvas, crafting unique beers with timely ingredients that capture the essence of spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Visit the Breweries Directly: The best way to experience seasonal beers is right at the source. Taprooms offer the freshest pours, exclusive releases, and a direct connection to Portland’s vibrant beer community.
Secure Limited Releases in Advance: Don’t miss out on sought-after seasonal brews. Check brewery websites for updates, follow them on social media, and use online pre-order options to guarantee you get a taste.

Why Is Portland a Top Spot for Seasonal Craft Beer?

If you ask any beer enthusiast about top-tier beer cities, Portland, Maine, is always part of the conversation. It’s not just about the sheer number of breweries packed into one place; it’s about the creative energy you can feel—and taste—in every pint. This city has a deep appreciation for craft, and that passion shines brightest with the changing of the seasons. Here, brewers don’t just follow trends; they use the seasons as a canvas for creating unique, memorable beers that capture a specific moment in time.

The breweries in Portland are known for constantly pushing the boundaries of what beer can be. At Bissell Brothers, we thrive on that spirit of innovation, and we’re in good company. The entire local scene is built on a foundation of quality and experimentation. This isn’t just local pride talking; Portland breweries consistently earn national recognition for their incredible brews, which tells you everything you need to know about the standards here.

This commitment to craft results in a wide variety of seasonal craft beers that go far beyond your typical pumpkin ale. In the spring, you might find a delicate, floral lager, while summer brings a wave of IPAs bursting with tropical fruit notes. As the weather cools, rich stouts and inventive harvest ales take over the taps. There’s a constant rotation that keeps things exciting and gives you a reason to visit your favorite taprooms again and again.

Ultimately, this vibrant beer culture is a cornerstone of the city’s identity. Maine’s craft breweries contribute significantly to the state’s economy, drawing in both locals and visitors who are eager to taste what’s new. When you enjoy a seasonal beer in Portland, you’re doing more than just having a drink—you’re taking part in a thriving local scene and supporting the creative people who make it all happen.

Portland’s Must-Visit Breweries for Seasonal Beer

Portland’s craft beer scene is always buzzing, but it truly comes alive with the changing seasons. Local breweries are constantly experimenting, using the freshest ingredients to capture the essence of spring, summer, fall, and winter in a glass. From crisp, floral IPAs that taste like the first thaw to rich, spiced stouts perfect for a snowy evening, there’s always something new to try. The city is packed with incredible talent, and every brewery brings its own unique perspective to seasonal brewing.

Exploring these limited releases is one of the best ways to experience what makes Portland’s beer culture so special. It’s a chance to taste the creativity and passion that brewers pour into their work. Whether you’re a long-time local or just visiting for the weekend, making a point to sample the seasonal offerings is a must. To help you get started, here are five breweries that consistently knock it out of the park with their seasonal beers. Each one offers a distinct experience, from the taproom atmosphere to the brewing philosophy.

Bissell Brothers Brewing Co.

While we’re known for our flagship IPAs like The Substance Ale, our team loves to play with flavors and styles that reflect the time of year. Our seasonal beers are where we really get to experiment, offering everything from refreshing pilsners in the summer to complex, darker ales as the weather cools. We believe that beer should be an experience, and our seasonal releases are designed to create memorable moments. Stop by our Portland taproom to see what’s currently on tap—there’s always something new and exciting to discover, perfectly paired with a bite from our kitchen.

Definitive Brewing Company

If you’re looking for innovation, Definitive Brewing Company is a great place to find it. They are constantly rolling out new and interesting beers, with a special focus on seasonal creations and one-off limited releases. Their tap list is always changing, which makes every visit feel like a new adventure. Definitive is known for its creative recipes that often feature fresh, timely ingredients, making their seasonal offerings a true reflection of the Maine landscape. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves to be surprised and wants to taste the very latest in craft beer.

Allagash Brewing Company

A true Portland institution, Allagash Brewing Company has been a leader in the craft beer world for years. They specialize in Belgian-style beers, and their approach to seasonal brewing is deeply rooted in this tradition. You can expect thoughtfully crafted ales that honor the changing seasons, from their crisp, refreshing Saisons in the spring to their rich, warming Dubbels in the winter. A visit to their brewery offers a chance to taste these expertly made beers and learn more about the Belgian brewing process. Allagash provides a classic and consistently excellent Portland beer experience.

Lone Pine Brewing Company

With a fun, welcoming atmosphere in their tasting rooms, Lone Pine Brewing Company is a fantastic spot to enjoy a pint of something seasonal. They brew a wide variety of craft beers, and their seasonal selections are always a highlight. In the warmer months, you might find bright, citrusy IPAs or light, crushable ales perfect for a day by the water. Lone Pine’s commitment to quality and community shines through in everything they do, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors looking to sample some of Portland’s finest seasonal brews.

Maine Beer Company

Maine Beer Company operates with a simple but powerful motto: “Do what’s right.” This philosophy extends from their commitment to sustainability to the high-quality ingredients they use in every batch. Their seasonal beers are a direct reflection of this dedication, showcasing pure, clean flavors that let the ingredients speak for themselves. When you drink a seasonal beer from Maine Beer Company, you can taste the care and intention that went into brewing it. They are a must-visit for any craft beer lover who appreciates a well-made beer with a conscience.

A Guide to Portland’s Seasonal Beer Styles

One of the best parts of living in a place with four distinct seasons is how the beer menu changes right along with the weather. Portland’s brewers are masters at capturing the essence of each season in a glass, using specific styles and local ingredients to match the mood. From the first thaw of spring to the coziest winter nights, there’s always a perfect pint waiting for you. Let’s walk through the flavors you can expect to find throughout the year.

Spring Flavors: Wheat Beers and Fresh Hop IPAs

When the snow melts and everything starts to feel fresh and new, your taste buds are probably craving something similar. Spring is a time for refreshing wheat beers and vibrant fresh hop IPAs, which are celebrated for their bright, floral notes and crisp finish. These styles are light, clean, and exactly what you want to be sipping on a sunny patio. As a brewery known for its innovative approach to IPAs, we at Bissell Brothers always have something special on tap to welcome the season. It’s the perfect time to explore beers that feel as hopeful and bright as a Maine spring day.

Summer Sips: Fruited Sours and Refreshing Lagers

Nothing says summer in Maine like a day at the beach or a backyard barbecue. During these warmer months, Portland’s breweries shine with their fruited sours and refreshing lagers. These beers are built for beating the heat, often featuring tart, juicy fruit flavors or a clean, crisp finish that’s incredibly crushable. Local spots are fantastic at showcasing styles that highlight seasonal ingredients, offering a rotating variety of options that taste like summer in a can. You can find an incredible selection of these styles at places like the Portland Beer Hub, which always has a great pulse on what’s fresh and local.

Autumn Ales: Spiced Brews and Harvest IPAs

As the leaves change, so do the beer styles in Portland. Autumn brings a desire for cozier, more complex flavors. This is the season for spiced brews and harvest IPAs, which often incorporate warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg or feature the rich, earthy notes of freshly harvested hops. These beers are the perfect companion for a crisp fall evening or a weekend of leaf-peeping. Here at Bissell Brothers, we love crafting seasonal options that capture the spirit of autumn. You can always check our current beer list to see what we’ve brewed up for the cooler weather.

Winter Warmers: Imperial Stouts and Holiday Brews

When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, Portland’s craft beer scene fully embraces rich, robust beers that warm you from the inside out. In winter, it’s all about imperial stouts and holiday brews. These beers are often higher in alcohol and feature complex flavors of chocolate, coffee, and dark fruit. Think of beers like the legendary “Angels With Filthy Souls – Mocha Chai,” which offers a comforting warmth and layers of flavor ideal for the season. According to BeerAdvocate, these are the styles that help make a Maine winter not just bearable, but something to look forward to.

A Taste of Maine: Local Blueberries and Foraged Ingredients

What truly sets Maine’s beer scene apart is its connection to the landscape. Our state provides a bounty of local ingredients, including wild blueberries, cranberries, and foraged herbs, which many breweries incorporate into their seasonal offerings. This focus on local sourcing creates beers that are uniquely Maine. This ethos of using what’s around you results in some of the top-rated beers in the state, reflecting the region’s natural beauty and agricultural richness. It’s a delicious reminder of the amazing resources we have right in our own backyard.

How to Get Your Hands on These Seasonal Beers

Now that you know what to look for, the next step is the fun part: the hunt. Seasonal beers are often released in limited quantities, so knowing where to look is key to snagging that special brew before it’s gone. Luckily, Portland offers plenty of ways to track down your new favorite beer, whether you want to make an afternoon of it or just grab something on your way home. Here are a few of the best ways to find the seasonal beers you’re looking for.

Go Straight to the Source: Brewery Taprooms

There’s nothing better than enjoying a beer right where it was made. Visiting a brewery’s taproom is the most direct way to sample their freshest seasonal offerings, often straight from the tank. It’s also a great way to fully experience the brewery’s vibe. At the Bissell Brothers taproom, for example, you can try our latest creations while enjoying the energetic atmosphere. Many breweries also host live music, trivia nights, and other events, turning your beer run into a memorable outing. Plus, the staff are always happy to tell you the story behind the beer you’re drinking.

Check Out Local Bottle Shops and Retailers

Think of local bottle shops as curated galleries of craft beer. These spots are fantastic for discovering seasonal releases from multiple breweries all in one place. Shops like the Portland Beer Hub are treasure troves for beer lovers, specializing in the best brews from across Maine. You can often find unique IPAs, lagers, and sours that you might not see anywhere else. It’s the perfect option when you want to explore a variety of seasonal styles or pick up a few different things to try at home. The knowledgeable staff can also point you toward hidden gems you might have otherwise missed.

Order Online for Same-Day Pickup

When you’re short on time or just want to make sure you get your hands on a limited release, ordering online is a game-changer. Many local breweries, including us here at Bissell Brothers, let you preorder your beer for easy pickup. This is the best way to guarantee your share of a popular seasonal brew without worrying about it selling out. Breweries like Lone Pine Brewing Company also offer this convenient option. It combines the ease of online shopping with the satisfaction of supporting local businesses and getting your beer at its freshest.

Use Brewery Websites and Beer Finder Apps

To stay ahead of the curve, make brewery websites your first stop. We keep our online beer list constantly updated with our current lineup, including all our seasonal options. It’s the most reliable source of information for what’s on tap and what’s available in cans. Beyond individual websites, beer finder apps can also be a huge help in tracking down specific brews around town. These tools let you search for a particular beer and see which local retailers have it in stock, saving you time and making your search much more efficient.

Don’t Miss These Portland Beer Events

Portland’s craft beer scene is about more than just what’s on tap—it’s about the experience. The city is buzzing with events that bring brewers and beer lovers together, creating a real sense of community around a shared passion. From large-scale festivals that take over the waterfront to intimate release parties at your favorite taproom, there’s always something happening. These gatherings are the perfect way to discover new seasonal flavors, meet the people behind the beer, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Getting involved in local beer events is one of the best ways to explore the depth of Portland’s craft culture. You can be the first to try a highly anticipated limited release, learn more about the brewing process directly from the source, or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon with good music, great food, and even better beer. Whether you’re a seasoned regular or new to the scene, these events offer a welcoming space to celebrate everything that makes Portland’s beer community so special. Keep an eye on brewery calendars and social media, because you won’t want to miss out.

Mark Your Calendar for Annual Festivals

Throughout the year, Portland hosts several major beer festivals that are absolute must-attends for any craft beer fan. These events bring together dozens of breweries from Maine and beyond, giving you a chance to sample a huge variety of styles in one place. For example, Mast Landing’s Wavy Days Beer Fest features guest breweries from all around the country, pouring their best beers right here in Portland to celebrate summer. These festivals are fantastic for discovering new favorites and tasting brews you might not otherwise get to try. Grab your tickets early, as these popular events often sell out.

Join a Brewery Release Party or Tasting Event

For a more focused experience, head straight to the source for a brewery release party. This is where you can celebrate a new seasonal beer the day it drops, often with special food pairings and a festive atmosphere. Here at Bissell Brothers, we love celebrating new brews with our community. Our events calendar is always updated with what’s coming up, from live music and trivia nights to our next big release. These gatherings are a great way to get a first taste of a limited-edition beer and chat with the brewers who made it. It’s a chance to be part of the excitement from the very beginning.

Keep an Eye Out for Limited-Edition Drops

Part of the fun of seasonal brewing is the thrill of the chase. Many of Portland’s most sought-after beers are released in small, limited-edition batches that disappear quickly. Bissell Brothers is known for our innovative and envelope-pushing brews, including unique seasonal craft beers that we release throughout the year. To make sure you don’t miss out, follow your favorite breweries on social media or sign up for their newsletters. This is the best way to get insider info on upcoming drops, so you can be ready to preorder online or plan your visit.

Find Community at Taproom Events and Collabs

Brewery events are about more than just beer; they’re about connection. Our events are an extension of what we’ve always believed in—sharing good beer, good company, and good times right here in Maine. Taprooms are community hubs where you can find everything from weekly trivia nights and live music to fundraisers for local causes. Brewery collaborations are another highlight, bringing two creative teams together to produce a unique, one-off beer. These events celebrate the collaborative spirit of the craft beer industry and offer a fun way to support your local breweries while enjoying a truly special pint.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’m new to craft beer. With so many options, where should I start? The best way to begin is by visiting a brewery taproom and ordering a flight. This lets you sample several different beers in small portions so you can figure out what you like without committing to a full pint. Don’t hesitate to chat with the staff, either. They’re passionate about what they do and can guide you toward a style that suits your taste, whether you think you prefer something light and crisp or rich and complex.

How can I find out what seasonal beers are currently on tap before I visit? The most reliable way is to check the brewery’s website or their social media pages right before you go. Most breweries, including us, keep an updated list of what’s currently pouring and what’s available in cans to-go. Tap lists can change quickly, especially for popular seasonal releases, so a quick look online will ensure you know exactly what to expect when you arrive.

Are seasonal beers really that limited? How quickly do they sell out? Yes, part of what makes them special is that they are brewed in smaller batches for a specific time of year. The most popular releases can sell out very quickly, sometimes within a day or two. If you hear about a beer you’re excited to try, your best bet is to plan a visit soon after it’s released or use a brewery’s online preorder system to reserve your cans for pickup.

What’s the best season to visit Portland for craft beer? That really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Summer is fantastic for enjoying refreshing lagers and fruited sours on an outdoor patio. Autumn brings a cozy vibe with harvest ales and festivals. Winter is perfect for rich, warming stouts, while spring offers bright, fresh IPAs that mirror the energy of the season. Every season has its own unique charm, so there’s never a bad time to explore the city’s beer scene.

Do brewery taprooms offer more than just beer? Absolutely. Many taprooms are community hubs that offer a full experience. You can often find a full food menu, like at our kitchen, designed to pair perfectly with the beers on tap. It’s also common to find a calendar full of events like live music, trivia nights, and local markets. They are great places to gather with friends and family for an afternoon or evening out, not just for a quick drink.