Nestled in the coastal town of Groton, Connecticut, Outer Light Brewing Company has become a beloved destination for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With its welcoming atmosphere and impressive selection of craft beers, this award-winning brewery offers a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy quality brews. You’ll appreciate the friendly staff and vibrant environment that has made Outer Light a standout in Connecticut’s beer scene.
Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or simply looking for a pleasant place to spend an afternoon, Outer Light Brewing Company delivers an experience worth seeking out. Located at 266 Bridge Street, the taproom is open several days a week with varying hours, making it easy to plan your visit. The brewery’s waterfront location adds to its charm, creating an ideal setting to sample their unique beer offerings while soaking in the local vibe.
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Outer Light Brewing Company
Outer Light Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery tucked away in Groton, Connecticut. This local gem offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can sample unique, handcrafted beers in their tasting room. Their brewing philosophy focuses on creating balanced, flavorful brews that appeal to both craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
When you visit Outer Light, you’ll find a relaxed space perfect for meeting friends or making new ones. The brewery has built a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike for their consistent quality and friendly service. Their tap list regularly features seasonal specialties alongside their core offerings.
The brewery takes its name from the nautical heritage of the Connecticut coastline, reflecting the maritime culture of Groton and the surrounding area. You’ll notice these coastal influences in both the brewery’s atmosphere and some of their beer names, creating an authentic local experience that can’t be found elsewhere.
Rating: 4.6 (219 reviews)
Location: 266 Bridge St, Groton, CT 06340
Contact: (475) 201-9972
Website: Visit Website
History of Outer Light Brewing Company
Outer Light Brewing Company has a fascinating journey from its founding to becoming one of Connecticut’s beloved craft breweries. Their story shows how passion for brewing can develop into a thriving local business.
Founding and Early Beginnings
Outer Light Brewing Company was founded in Groton, Connecticut in 2015 by Tom Drejer and Matt Ferruci. The duo combined their brewing knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit to create a brewery focused on crafting beers inspired by life’s simple pleasures.
Tom Drejer took on the role of co-owner and president, though as he mentioned in interviews, the team didn’t focus much on formal titles. Instead, they concentrated on building their brewing expertise and creating unique flavor profiles.
When you visit the taproom at 266 Bridge Street in Groton, you’re walking into a space that represents their dream come true. The founders approached brewing as both a science and an art form, with Drejer describing it as “like being a chef” with a focus on how flavors and ingredients blend together.
Evolution Over the Years
Since opening in 2015, Outer Light has celebrated each anniversary by introducing a new beverage to their lineup. This tradition shows their commitment to innovation and keeping their offerings fresh for customers like you.
Their hard work paid off as they developed award-winning brews that gained popularity throughout the region. Some of their most popular creations include:
- Subduction IPA
- Lonesome Boatman Amber Ale
- Cloudbreak Double IPA
- Libation Propaganda Stout
After a decade of independent operation, a significant change came in 2025 when Outer Light Brewing Company was acquired by Rhode Island-based Grey Sail Brewing. This acquisition marks a new chapter in the brewery’s evolution while building on their established reputation for exceptional beer selection.
The brewery continues to be a popular destination in Groton, with thousands of visitors experiencing their craft beverages and welcoming atmosphere over the years.
Craft Beer Offerings
Outer Light Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of craft beers inspired by life’s simple pleasures. Their Groton taproom showcases both year-round favorites and creative seasonal offerings that have helped establish them in Connecticut’s brewing scene since opening in 2015.
Signature Brews
Outer Light’s core lineup features beers you can enjoy any time of year. These signature brews showcase the brewery’s commitment to quality and flavor. You’ll find these reliable favorites both at the taproom and distributed to local restaurants, bars, and liquor stores throughout Connecticut.
When visiting the brewery at 266 Bridge Street, you can sample their flagship beers right where they’re made. The taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can try several varieties through a flight or enjoy a full pour of your favorite.
Want to bring some home? Outer Light offers their core beers in kegs (1/6 BBL logs) through their online store, though remember to bring $30 cash for the deposit and your ID when picking up.
Seasonal and Special Releases
Beyond their year-round offerings, Outer Light regularly introduces seasonal and special release beers that highlight creative brewing techniques and seasonal ingredients. These limited-time brews give you something new to look forward to with each visit.
The rotating lineup ensures there’s always something fresh to try whether you’re a regular visitor or making your first trip to the taproom. Special releases often celebrate seasons, local ingredients, or experimental brewing approaches.
For the most current tap list, check their website before visiting. The taproom is open Wednesday through Sunday, with varying hours each day (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
Want the complete experience? Visit on weekends when the taproom is busiest and you can enjoy their full selection along with games and the vibrant atmosphere of this Groton craft brewery.
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