Whether you're just getting started or you're a seasoned brewer, finding the right supply shop can make or break your batch. Here are five homebrew stores that stand out for their unique strengths.
The Homebrew Supply Landscape
The homebrew supply industry has grown from a niche hobby into a thriving community of passionate brewers. Today's shops offer everything from basic starter kits to advanced all-grain systems, plus a dizzying array of ingredients and accessories. Online retailers have expanded access, but local shops still provide that personal touch and hands-on advice. As you explore your options, you'll find that each store has its own personality, whether it's a focus on education, a wide product range, or a commitment to local service.
How We Evaluated These Stores
We looked at each store's product selection, pricing transparency, and how well they serve different types of brewers. We also considered their online presence, community engagement, and any unique services like rentals or used equipment. Each store was assessed on these factors to highlight what makes them stand out, not to crown a single winner.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five stores we're featuring, so you can see at a glance what each one brings to the table.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Northern Brewer | Comprehensive selection and educational resources |
| Oregonized Brewing | Local service and used equipment deals |
| Craft a Brew | Beginner-friendly kits and variety |
| Keystone Homebrew | Expertise and specialty equipment |
| RahrBSG | Wholesale quantities and professional-grade ingredients |
The Deep Dive: Your Homebrew Supply Options
#1 Northern Brewer
A screenshot of the Northern Brewer website.
Northern Brewer is a heavyweight in the homebrew world, offering an extensive catalog that covers everything from beginner kits to advanced equipment. Their website is packed with resources, including video courses and articles, making it a great learning hub. You'll find a wide range of ingredients, from malts to hops, plus specialty items like the Master Vintner wine kits. They frequently run promotions, like their sitewide 20% off deals, which can help you save on bigger purchases. If you're looking for one-stop shopping with plenty of support, Northern Brewer has you covered.
#2 Oregonized Brewing
A screenshot of the Oregonized Brewing website.
Oregonized Brewing is your local homebrew supply store in Central Oregon, and it shows in their community-focused approach. They offer a solid range of equipment, from all-grain systems to kegging gear, plus a variety of ingredients and kits. What sets them apart is their used equipment section and rental services, which are perfect for brewers looking to save money or try before they buy. Their website also features handy tools like an ABV calculator and a hops substitution chart, making it a practical resource. If you value local service and a personal touch, this is the place to check out.
#3 Craft a Brew
A screenshot of the Craft a Brew website.
Craft a Brew focuses on making homebrewing accessible and fun, especially for beginners. Their starter kits come in 1-gallon and 5-gallon sizes, and they offer a variety of recipe kits for beer, wine, mead, and even kombucha. The website is clean and easy to navigate, with clear product categories and helpful descriptions. They also provide free shipping on orders over $99, which is a nice perk. If you're new to the hobby or want to experiment with different styles, Craft a Brew is a friendly entry point.
#4 Keystone Homebrew
A screenshot of the Keystone Homebrew website.
Keystone Homebrew has been serving the homebrew community for decades, and it shows in their deep product knowledge and extensive inventory. They carry everything from grains and hops to specialized equipment like electric brewing systems and cask supplies for real ale. Their site also includes a wealth of information, including brewing guides and a staff blog, which can be a great resource for troubleshooting. They offer both extract and all-grain kits, plus a range of wine-making supplies. If you're looking for a store with serious expertise, Keystone is a solid choice.
#5 RahrBSG
A screenshot of the RahrBSG website.
RahrBSG is a wholesale supplier that also caters to homebrewers, offering a professional-grade selection of ingredients and equipment. Their catalog includes a wide range of malts from top brands like Briess and Weyermann, plus hops, yeast, and additives. They also carry Grainfather systems and a variety of cleaning and sanitation products. While their site is more utilitarian, it's a treasure trove for brewers who want to buy in bulk or access commercial-quality supplies. If you're serious about your craft and want to stock up, RahrBSG is worth a look.
How to Choose the Right Homebrew Supply Store
Start by thinking about your experience level and what you want to brew. If you're a beginner, look for stores that offer starter kits and clear guidance, like Craft a Brew. For those who want a wide selection and educational content, Northern Brewer is a strong option. If you prefer supporting local businesses and want to save on used gear, Oregonized Brewing is your go-to. Consider your budget and whether you need specialty equipment or bulk ingredients. Finally, check shipping costs and delivery times if you're ordering online, and don't forget to read reviews from other brewers.
Streamline Your Brewing with These Tools
Many of these stores offer online calculators and recipe software to simplify your brewing process. For example, Oregonized Brewing provides an ABV calculator and a hops substitution chart, while Northern Brewer has video courses to walk you through each step. You can also use Brewfather recipe software, which integrates with several of these stores, to plan and scale your recipes. By leveraging these digital tools, you can focus more on the fun part—brewing—and less on the math.
Final Thoughts
No matter which store you choose, the key is to find one that fits your brewing style and needs. Whether you're drawn to the local charm of Oregonized Brewing or the vast selection at Northern Brewer, each of these shops has something unique to offer. Take your time to explore their websites, compare prices, and see which one feels right for you. Happy brewing!