If you’re traveling from afar to reach Stowe, it’s always good to have options for stopping along the way. Recently I visited one such option, Whetstone Station in Brattleboro, Vermont. Brattleboro is about 10 miles north of the Massachusetts border and still a good two-hour drive from Stowe. The good news is that Whetstone is only about 5 minutes off of Interstate 91, meaning you can take a break without adding substantially to your drive.
In truth, Whetstone feels more like a bar/restaurant than a brewery. With a deck overlooking the Connecticut River, it’s a great spot for a quick lunch of pub-style fare, paired with a fresh pint of your choice.
Whetstone prides itself in being a true “micro-brewery”, specializing in small batches and in experimentation. They have their own brand of IPAs, and I took away a crowler (32 oz.) each of the Whetstoner (Vermont-style session IPA at 4.3% ABV) and the Ames Hill Amber (5.2% ABV). A pour of the Whetstoner produced a nice, dark orange glow with a slightly small head. It a had light, hopped taste and was consumed easily. Overall, a good, but not remarkable IPA.
The Cicerone says: In addition to their own makes, Whetstone has a rotating guest list of other, fine local brews for the sampling.
Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery
36 Bridge St, Brattleboro VT
Open: Sunday – Thursday 11:30am – 10pm, Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 11pm.
Website