If there’s one thing Nashville knows how to do, it’s great beer. From crisp, refreshing lagers to bold, hoppy IPAs and smooth, malty stouts, the Music City’s craft beer scene is booming with must-try brews. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer lover or just looking for the perfect pint to pair with your meal, we’ve got you covered.
Best Local Beers to Try This Year
Here’s your go-to guide to the best local Nashville draft beers you’ll want to sip on in 2025. Plus, a sneak peek at what’s new on the M.L.Rose Spring Draft Menu!
For Hopheads Who Enjoy Bold, Juicy, and Hoppy Beers
If you love an IPA that packs a punch, Nashville’s breweries are serving up some fantastic options:
- Hippies & Cowboys (Tennessee Brew Works, Nashville, TN) – A tropical, citrus-heavy IPA with luscious aromas and a smooth, crisp finish. Perfect for IPA lovers who want a balanced bitterness.
- Melrose Hazy IPA (Hi-Wire Brewing Co. + M.L. Rose, Asheville, NC) – Juicy pineapple, bright citrus, and ripe mango make this hazy brew a must-try for fans of unfiltered, smooth IPAs.
- Tunnel Vision (Bearded Iris Brewing, Nashville, TN) – A layered, juicy IPA featuring Mosaic and Citra hops with a candy-like lemon starburst zing.
Need food pairings? Try spicy wings, loaded nachos, or a juicy burger.
For the Lager Lovers Who Want Crisp, Light, and Refreshing Beers
Prefer something smooth and easy-drinking? These lagers are perfect for any occasion:
- Owl Lager (Hi-Wire Brewing Co., Asheville, NC) – A true American lager with the perfect balance of Pilsner malt and German hops. Pairs beautifully with anything on the menu.
- Von Elrod’s Neighborhood Pilsner (Jackalope Brewing Co. + Von Elrod’s, Nashville, TN) – This traditional German-style pilsner is a light, flavorful brew that’s easy to sip all day.
- Music City Light (Music City Beer Co., Nashville, TN) – A smooth, refreshing American light lager that’s great for casual drinking.
Looking for food options? Go for a classic cheeseburger, fries, or a grilled chicken sandwich.
For the Malt Lover Who Prefers Roasty, Smooth Beers
If you’re into beers with deep malt flavors, chocolatey notes, and smooth finishes, check these out:
- Bearwalker Maple Brown Ale (Jackalope Brewing Co., Nashville, TN) – Infused with pure Vermont maple syrup, this chocolatey, malty ale is complex yet balanced.
- Black Abbey Pub Ale (Black Abbey Brewing Co., Nashville, TN) – A light-bodied, malt-forward ale with biscuit malt notes and a smooth finish.
- Leather Jacket Porter (Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co., Charleston, SC) – A roasty American porter with rich chocolate and oak flavors balanced by a touch of caramel sweetness.
Best pairings? Definitely BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or rich desserts like brownies or chocolate cake.
For the Sour & Fruity Lover Who Loves Fun Beers
Love a little zing? These local Nashville sours and fruit-forward brews will wake up your taste buds:
- Sour SZN (East Nashville Beer Works, Nashville, TN) – A bold sour overflowing with strawberries and limes, perfect for a refreshing, tart kick.
- Southern Grist Tropical Citrus Hill (Southern Grist Brewing Co., Nashville, TN) – A sour ale with tangerine, calamansi, guava purée, and a touch of lactose for balance.
- Jackalope Lovebird (Jackalope Brewing Co., Nashville, TN) – A slightly pink, wheat-based fruit beer with strawberries and raspberries in every batch.
Not sure what to eat with these? Pair them with spicy tacos, tangy salads, or creamy cheeses like goat cheese.
Feeling Adventurous? Try a Beer Flight & Find Your Favorite
Still can’t decide? Try a seasonal beer flight at M.L.Rose! Pick from the best local lagers, ales, and sours and sample a little bit of everything. Whether you’re craving a classic pilsner, a bold IPA, or a fruity sour, we’ve got the perfect lineup waiting for you.
Come grab a pint (or a flight) and taste the best of Nashville’s craft beer scene!
Cheers! 🍻
