McNeill's Brewery

I've waited a few weeks to write this review because I needed some time to come down from the heady realization that this is without a doubt the best brew pub I've ever had the pleasure to frequent. I've been a home brewer since 1980, all my travels are done extensively in search of the perfect brew, and I can now sleep better knowing I've been to the Mecca of brew pubs. My former favorite brewery is located in a little town in the Czech Republic known as Velke Popovice, whose brew is known as Kozel. They don't import to the US, so now the 5.5 hour trip from NJ to Brattleboro will seem like heaven is just down the street. I've already changed travel plans for NY State to return to MacNeill's in a few weeks. Brewpubs are about the beer, and MacNeill's offers a large variety of distinct individual beers and ales. Other brewpubs that have attempted to offer such variety have always seemed to miss the point - they go for volume instead of quality. If you like high end atmosphere, stay in the city nearest you. If you like haute cuisine, go to Paris. If you like excellent beer, go to MacNeill's.

Where to start... They no longer brew on premises, don't offer tasters, and I caught the bartender microwaving a burrito as standard practice. I'm sure the locals love it as the place was full of drunks at 1PM on a Saturday, but it dosen't impress me.

I was skeptical about this place because of the other reviews on Yelp.  We stopped here on our way home to hit one last breweryon the Vermont Brewery Challenge before we left.  When we walked in, there was a large group singing traditional folksongs acapella.  What a treat! We sat at the bar and the bartender was extremely friendly and helpful.  We each purchased two four ounce glasses of different brews to try - so reasonably priced and so delicious!  

The place is definitely a drinks only place - we saw a board outside indicating food specials but inside all we saw was a strange little kitchen area with a microwave and such.  So I wouldnt eat here, and it is a little dumpy - but I would definitely go back for the beer!