Local Craft Breweries near Concord, TX (4)

Stesti means “happiness” in Czech and Stesti Brewing Company hopes you can drink some from their glass or bottle. The brewery was originally called "Dej Bůh Štěstí" Brewing Company, or “God gives happiness”. The phrase is a traditional saying by Czech brewmasters. Owners Dennis and Ana Gore shortened it so it's easier to remember. The small family-owned brewery specializes in Czech-style beers. Master brewer Dennis is a surgeon and professor on most days, and studied his craft in Plzeň, Czech Republic under renowned Czech masters. Wife Ana is the brewery’s business manager. Unlike most breweries, they don't have a taproom. Instead, they only conduct tours and tastings at their beautiful property in Lovelady. They require a two-day advance notice, and there you can sample their flagship beers Pivo Pils and Bohemian Lager, and some seasonal varieties. Otherwise, check your local supermarkets for their bottled beers. Traditionally, Czech lagers come in bottles not cans.

Texas now has plenty of brewpubs, but when Blackwater Draw Brewing Co. (aka BWD) opened in Northgate in College Station, it was the first in College Station. In November 2013, BWD stayed ahead of the trend by opening even before Houston had its first brewpub. Just after their second anniversary in December 2015, they opened their second location in historic downtown Bryan. They closed the Northgate College Station location in mid-2018 because of rent and property taxes, but continue to operate the Bryan location. Their love for coffee made them create their first signature brew, a coffee porter named Contract Killer. Since then, they’ve added Mulligan (a German style Kolsch), Border Town (a Mexican style lager), and Hazy Lady (a New England style IPA) in their lineup of year round beers. The brewery also produces seasonal beers. Visitors can also check out the taproom for one-off specials. With a 20 bbl Brewhouse system, they are gearing up to supply the Brazos Valley area.

The Pint and Barrel Drafthouse is a great place to enjoy a pint and some of their flavorful pub food. Situated in Old Palestine, Texas, the Pint and Barrel Drafthouse has over 18 different brews that you can try out. Their menu also has some Texas beer-match favorites like pulled pork sandwiches, or enjoy a customized burger with different styles to choose from.

Tree Farm Brewing takes its name from its original location: a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm in Navasota owned by Josh’s parents and lovingly referred to as the "Tree Farm". In 2013, the brewers premiered a small batch “India Pale Ale” as their first official beer at Briarcrest Country Club. The IPA is representative of the hop-forward beers that are the brewers’ favorite, but their line-up is also set to include batches of “American Wheat, Blonde, and Pale ales.” The goal with each batch is to create a beer that is flavorful and aromatic, but also finely balanced and approachable. Whether you favor a quaffable American wheat or a bright, citrusy IPA, Tree Farm will have something to show you.