Sep 12

Fall beer cans on a red chair in the biergarten featuring Cider and Pumpkin Ale

Beers of Fall

By Nolan Blog

Beers of Fall

Fall vibes are setting in for us here in Upstate New York. With the change of season comes a shift to fall beer cravings. Crushable summer sippers give way to roasty delights that pair with the crisp, cooler air. The brewery and coffee crews have been hard at work over the past months, bolstering our fall lineup for the harvest season.

Here is your guide to all things fall beer & refreshment at Common Roots:

Märzen Magic: Fritzi

Märzen is the classic German lager that built Oktoberfest traditions. Known for its smooth, malty backbone and toasty notes, it is an inherently celebratory beverage.

Our take, Fritzi, leans into that timeless character while carrying its own signature balance. The rich caramel, malty flavor is countered by a crisp finish, making it approachable for fall beer drinkers of all palettes. Named after the matriarch of the Weber family: Elfriede “Fritzi” Weber, this brew pays homage to the Weber’s German heritage. It’s the kind of beer that feels right at home alongside fall foliage, hearty meals, and the golden September sun.

Can of Fritzi infront of the Albany Outpost fallscape

Can of Pumpkin Ale infront of the Flagship Taproom

A Seasonal Classic: Pumpkin Ale

Pumpkin ales have quickly become a quintessential fall beer over the past decade, signaling the arrival of cooler nights, golden leaves, and cozy gatherings. Our Pumpkin Ale seamlessly blends smooth malt character with warming spices that capture the essence of the season. It strikes a perfect balance. Robust and aromatic, offering depth and nuance without tipping into overwhelming sweetness.

Expect a deep amber color with golden highlights on the pour, and inviting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and subtle caramel. Notes of baked pumpkin and brown sugar are rounded out with just a hint of sweetness. The result is a beer that feels both familiar and inviting, ideal for pairing with your favorite autumn traditions.

Cider Delights

Few things hit the spot like a crisp hard cider when the air turns cool and the trees show their colors. Ours is made with a blend of fresh, locally sourced New York apples, resulting in a naturally bright, slightly tart sip. Common Roots Cider is light yet flavorful, striking the perfect balance between sweet and dry without ever feeling heavy. It’s a refreshing choice you can enjoy anytime throughout the season.

Craving something a little richer? Keep an eye out for Common Roots Cider Doughnut. Brewed with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and lactose, this special release captures all the nostalgia of a cider donut in liquid form.

Whether you’re heading to the orchard, gathering friends around the fire, or planning a fall feast, our ciders fit right in. They’re also a favorite for anyone seeking a gluten-free option that still delivers full, vibrant character. Stock up for weekends, share with friends, and savor every fleeting moment of autumn.

cider donught can next to two cider donughts

Outdoorsy Refreshment: Public Lands Pale Ale

Public Lands Pale Ale is a crisp, hop-forward fall beer built for autumnal adventures. Bright citrus and pine notes lead the way, with a clean, snappy finish that offers a refreshing break from the richer, heavier brews of the season. It’s the ideal pale ale for fall, ready to enjoy after a day on the trail, casting a line in a quiet stream, or soaking in the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

Brewed in partnership with the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Association, this beer celebrates the wild spaces that bring us together. Whether you’re hiking to a hidden overlook, wading into a cool river for some fall fly-fishing, or simply gathering with friends to share stories of the day, Public Lands is a toast to the places and the people that make autumn adventures unforgettable.

Darker Nights, Darker Beers

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing better than a well-crafted dark beer to match the season. These styles bring depth and comfort to cool-weather sipping, each with its own distinct character.

Shadow Figures Porter – Smooth and satisfying, this porter layers roasted malt and chocolate notes for a rich yet approachable pint.

Coffee Cup Imperial Stout – Bold and warming, this brew features our house-roasted coffee for a robust flavor and a little extra kick, perfect for long, chilly nights.

Together, these beers showcase the range of dark beers ideal for fall. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire, capping off a day of outdoor adventure, or simply savoring the flavors of the season, this lineup offers the best dark beers for fall in every shade and style.

Café Twist: Pumpkin Spiced Latte

Fall flavors aren’t just for beer lovers. The Café is rolling out pumpkin-spiced lattes for the harvest season. Made with house-roasted coffee, perfectly blended with warming spices and silky steamed milk. The result is a warm, aromatic cup that brings the flavors of fall to life.

Whether you’re fueling up before a leaf-peeping road trip, warming your hands after a cool morning walk, or simply treating yourself to one of the season’s best fall coffee drinks, the Café is the perfect spot to settle in and savor the Autumn months.

Fall Beverages for any Occasion

Fall is full of rich flavors, from bold fall beers to warm, spiced drinks. Whether you’re enjoying a dark, roasty pint, sipping a crisp cider, or starting the day with a seasonal latte, there’s something here for every taste and every moment.

Stop by the Flagship Taproom, Albany Outpost, or Café to explore our fall lineup and bring a few favorites home. Here’s to crisp evenings, colorful days, and raising a glass to everything we love about this season.

Flagship Taproom

Albany Outpost

The Café

Aug 22

Can of Rising from the Ashes 2025 with a pour behind it

Rising from the Ashes 2025 Foundation Weekend

By Nolan Blog

Rising from the Ashes: A Tradition Rooted in Community

Here’s to another round of Rising from the Ashes. Each year, this commemorative release supports the Common Roots Foundation and its mission to build a more just, active, and inclusive community. Every edition highlights a new style, and 2025 features a classic done right: a crisp and refreshing Kölsch-style ale.

Collage of past year's rising from the ashes labels

This Year’s Brew: Kölsch with Character

The Kölsch style bridges the gap between lager and ale. Brewed with fine Pilsen malt and traditional German hops, this year’s Rising from the Ashes delivers a clean, refreshing profile with subtle ale-like complexity.

The 2025 can art showcases the Albany skyline, complete with The Egg, Empire State Plaza, and the Alfred E. Smith Building. The design reflects our connection to the Capital Region and the opening of the Albany Outpost, a space that further roots us in the local community.

Brewing with Purpose: The Story Behind the Name

The name Rising from the Ashes pay tribute to the strength and support that carried Common Roots forward in the wake of a devastating fire that destroyed our original brewery in 2019. From that moment of loss came overwhelming community support and the determination to rebuild stronger. What began as a beer brewed in gratitude has become an annual tradition and a lasting symbol of resilience.

Proceeds from each pint or pack continue to fund the Common Roots Foundation, extending the ripple of community strength year after year.

Common Roots Foundation: Supporting Community and Equity

What began as a way to give back after the fire has grown into a year-round effort to strengthen the communities we call home.

The Common Roots Foundation was created to give back the same support we felt in the wake of the fire, and today it drives year-round efforts to strengthen the communities we call home. Grants and partnerships support projects that align with its mission to foster a more just, active, and inclusive region.

The Foundation funds initiatives that expand access to the outdoors, provide resources for youth development, and advance equity-driven programs. Whether you join a fundraiser, grab a 4-pack to-go, or enjoy a pint at the taproom, every pour of Rising from the Ashes beer helps fuel this mission.

Foundation Weekend 2025:

In addition to the release of Rising from the Ashes, the Common Roots Foundation is hosting two fundraising events for Foundation Weekend during the first weekend of October 2025. Participants will receive a discount on to-go beer all weekend long! Sign up for one event for 10% off or both events for 20% off.

River Run for the Roots 5K in South Glens Falls

Enjoy a scenic 5K run/walk/stroll along the Hudson River in South Glens Falls, followed by a post-race celebration at the Flagship Biergarten. Awards will be given for overall winners, age-group winners, and a stroller division.

Date & Location: Saturday, October 4th, Common Roots Flagship Biergarten.

Learn More & Sign Up

Beat the Brewers Disc Golf Challenge

Our fifth annual Disc Golf Challenge brings together teams for a day of friendly competition, tasty beer, and community support. The format is simple: two rounds, morning and afternoon, with prizes for challenges like Ring of Fire, Longest Drive, and Closest to the Pin. The team that tops the Brewers’ score will claim the grand prize (and bragging rights). Expect plenty of craft beer, good food, and great company out on the course.

Date & Location: Sunday, October 5th, Crandall Park Disc Golf Course.

Learn More & Sign Up

Raise a Glass for a Great Cause

Rising from the Ashes is more than a beer—it’s a reminder of what can grow from challenge. Every year, it connects people, supports the Foundation, and celebrates the spirit of resilience that defines our community.

Grab a pint, sign up for an event, or simply share the story. Together, we can keep the tradition alive and the mission moving forward.

Find Rising from the Ashes at both taprooms and in select retail locations throughout the region.

Learn About the Foundation

Foundation News

Jul 29

Can of Zero Wake NA Helles with Brewery in background

Responsibly Refreshing Guide to Light and NA Options

By Nolan Blog

Responsibly Refreshing: Your Guide to Low ABV and NA Options

Summer is in full swing here in Upstate New York, which means there’s no shortage of reasons to raise a glass. With more people reaching for non-alcoholic and low ABV options, that glass doesn’t always have to come with a buzz. Whether you’re pacing yourself, craving something lighter, or just want a refreshing, hop-forward drink, we’ve got plenty of options to fit the moment.

From non-alcoholic brews to easy-drinking lagers and low-ABV IPAs, we’ve been rolling out a variety of new offerings designed to keep you refreshed and in the moment. Here’s your guide to enjoying Common Roots when you’re looking for something responsibly refreshing.

Cans of Hop Hydration, Zero Wake, and Common Roots Cold Brew lined up on a barrel in the beergarten

Non-Alcoholic Options

Zero Wake Helles (NA)

We’re thrilled to introduce our first Non-Alcoholic Brew: Zero Wake Helles. Crafted with specialty malts and noble hops, similar to our Common Roots Lager, this “near beer” delivers a crisp, clean profile that is made for all-day enjoyment. With just 65 calories and less than 0.5% ABV, it’s a flavorful and easy drinking alternative for when you want an alcohol free beer experience. Available now in 12oz cans and 6-packs at both locations, and heading to local retailers soon.

Hop Hydration

Riding the wave of non-alcoholic innovation, Hop Water has become an increasingly popular choice in our taprooms. Blending the clarity and carbonation level of sparkling water with the hop character of beer, Hop Hydration delivers bright citrus notes and a refreshingly familiar mouthfeel. With a rotating selection of flavors, our current Lemon Lime version leans into the citrusy profile that pairs seamlessly with the addition of Citra Hops. Think a lemon-lime seltzer water with a bit more depth. Hop Hydration is available by the can or by the 6-pack in all locations.

Cold Brew

For those seeking a caffeine boost, our non-alcoholic lineup is complemented by Common Roots Cold Brew. Roasted and brewed in-house with specialty beans, our cold brew is smooth, refreshing, and a great way to keep the day moving. Available in cans at the Café and both taprooms, it’s a great grab whether you’re heading out for a hike or just need a pick-me-up that doesn’t involve hops.

Liquid Leisure Lime, Tropic, Low Wave, Shreddie and Capital Light cans on a biergarten chair

Low ABV Beers

For those looking to keep things light but not totally dry, the brew crew has been cranking out some stellar low ABV brews perfect for summer sipping. From hoppy beers to Lagers and beyond, our sessionable beer lineup has something crushable for every beer drinker.

Session IPAs

On the hoppy side, Low Wave pushes the boundaries of what a low-ABV IPA can be at just 94 calories and 4% ABV. Dosed with a rotating selection of fruit, Low Wave delivers full hop character expected from an IPA with a burst of citrus. Perfect for keeping it light during any summer hang.

Shreddie is our quintessential Session IPA. Bringing forward a full hoppy profile at 5% ABV, this easy sipper is the ultimate après beer. Like its wintertime counterpart, Gondola Session, Shreddie was made to serve as a reward for a day of outdoor activity.

Crushable Lagers

The summer selection also features a trio of light-bodied, low-alcohol Lagers. Capital Light Lager checks all the boxes of this style. Crisp, clean, refreshing, and highly drinkable. At only 99 calories and 4% ABV, Capital Light is an excellent option for Lager lovers looking for something super crushable. Liquid Leisure Lime posts many of the same specs as Capital Light. 99 Calories, 4% ABV, but also brings along a hefty dose of lime character.

Reference Method is a true-to-style German Pilsner at 4.2% ABV that packs an impressive punch for a low alcohol option. Slightly more complex than the Light Lagers, Reference Method provides a welcoming touch of hoppy bitterness with the same refreshing finish.

Low Alcohol Sour

If pale and hoppy beers aren’t your thing, Tropic Sour Ale offers the tart punch of a sour beer at a lower ABV. Brewed with Citra hops and conditioned on raspberries and lime, Tropic is a highly approachable low alcohol option for those who don’t love a hoppy beer.

Brewed for Balance

Our lineup of non-alcoholic and low ABV options is brewed with the same care and creativity as everything we make. Designed to keep you enjoying great beer (and coffee) all year long, no matter your pace. Here’s to staying refreshed, staying present, and making the most of the season, one responsibly refreshing sip at a time.

Learn More About Our Beer

See What's Available in ALB

See What's Available in SGF

Jul 01

Summer 2025

By Nolan FoundersMessages

In Praise of Dogs

Those of us who have dogs and appreciate the summer months likely see the connection between the phrase, “The dog days of summer” and how our canine companions act on hot, humid days. At least that’s what I thought. When it’s hot out, our dog Gracie is very happy to just lay around in any cooler spot or seek comfort of the indoor space and not move. That said, I decided to do a little digging into this saying and other facts about dogs and discovered that our ancestors thought the onset of hot, humid weather was because of the rise of the bright Dog Star, Sirius, near the sun. So, the origin of the phrase…dog days of summer has nothing to do with our pets’ reaction or lack thereof to summer weather.

Our pooch, Gracie, who is a lab/hound rescue, is now 13 years old, in overall good health, but I know she really suffers in the heat, and so I must limit her time outdoors during the dog days of summer. When she was younger, heat didn’t seem to affect her as much; I loved her company on hikes…off leash when it was appropriate. It was easy to see how much she loved that time… we both enjoyed it. On hot days, I always made sure we had a stream or lake for her to swim in. Sadly, those days are over for Gracie in the hot summer. Now she looks forward to getting back inside quickly…even after our neighborhood walks.

Those of us who have made the conscience decision to have a dog in our lives understand that we can’t imagine ourselves without one now. As much as we love them, it could never compare to the love we get in return. Is there any better feeling than having them greet you at the door at the end of a tough day, or how excited they get when they know they are being included in your trip? While having a dog can be expensive and certainly carries a fair amount of responsibility with it, many of us humans cannot imagine our days without them. The bond between dog and human goes far back in history and is unlike any other.

So why this special bond? Most experts agree this special bond started some 15,000 years ago as our ancestors first domesticated the descendants of wolves during the start of our hunter-gatherer period. They served as protection and helped with hunting.

Other fun fact…dogs are good for our health. A study at UC-Davis found that people who have dogs are generally healthier and less depressed. “With stress and burnout rates on the rise, having a furry friend waiting for you at home is scientifically proven to improve your mental and physical health. Plus, owning a pet can help you age in a healthy way”. The study also found that dog owners tend to be more generous and have a better sense of humor. (Cultivation Health- April 2024 UC Davis Health)

Perhaps even more interesting is the idea that owning a dog makes you appear more trustworthy! Megan Mueller, professor at Tufts University, in the article, “How the Presence of Pets Builds Trust in People” (April 2022) stated, “The presence of an animal can also enhance perceptions of trustworthiness and responsibility, which in turn fosters positive social interactions. Researchers found that people were more likely to help a stranger with a dog than one without a dog, suggesting that the presence of an animal conferred perceptions of trust.” I think probably most of us made these connections without any scientific studies. I meet a person with a dog, I usually enjoy the encounter.

Perhaps this partially explains why almost every President of the United States has had a dog! In fact, only three U.S. presidents have never had a dog. Andrew Johnson, James Polk, and Donald Trump. Enough said.

As you may have guessed, we are dog lovers here at Common Roots. We enjoy them as our companions and as our guests in our Biergarten at all locations. Sadly, the health department doesn’t allow them indoors in our taproom spaces unless they are special service dogs…but we think all dogs are special.

I know none of this is news to those of us who are already on the dog train, but perhaps something to consider if you are thinking about an adoption. Common Roots has hosted several pet adoption days at our facilities in the past…if you’re thinking about it…why not visit your local SPCA or animal shelter and bring home a new family member?

For many of us, our pets are family and bring us happiness, companionship, and a sense of purpose. Dogs specifically have been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise, and improve your overall health. At Common Roots, we welcome all responsible dogs and their owners to any of our outdoor biergartens and spaces. This summer you don’t leave that special friend home…go have a beer together (beer for you, water for your friend) and celebrate the dog days of summer with us!

Jun 27

Photo of the Exterior of the Common Roots Albany Outpost

Brewery Vibes for your Private Event in the Heart of Albany

By Nolan Blog

Brewery Vibes for your Albany Private Event

From casual happy hours to wedding rehearsal dinners, your event deserves a space that feels relaxed and welcoming. At the Common Roots Albany Outpost, you’ll find flexible spaces that fit whatever you’re planning, whether it’s drinks with coworkers or celebrating with family and friends. With great beer, scratch-made food, and a team focused on making things easy, your event will feel less like a production and more like a good time everyone can enjoy.

A Space that Works for You

At Common Roots Albany Outpost, we offer three distinct event spaces designed to accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner, shower, or company happy hour event in Albany, we offer a space that invites your guests to relax and enjoy.

The Great Room is our largest and most versatile space. With soaring ceilings, tall windows, and a striking stone fireplace, it’s an ideal setting for wedding welcome dinners, large corporate mixers, or milestone celebrations. The open floor plan can be customized to suit seated dinners, cocktail-style receptions, and everything in between.

The Montgomery Mezzanine offers a semi-private space that seats up to 60 guests. Overlooking the taproom, it features high, open ceilings and a relaxed but polished atmosphere. It’s a great choice for birthday parties, retirement celebrations, and business meetings. Need more room? Pair the Mezzanine with the Quackenbush area to expand your guest list, gain access to a private bar, and create a fully private experience.

The Quackenbush is perfect for more intimate gatherings, such as cocktail parties, off-site meetings, or smaller private events in Albany. It offers flexibility and charm, overlooking the Great Room from a cozy corner of our space.

Each of our event spaces features warm wood accents, abundant natural light, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Whether you’re aiming for a professional setup or a laid-back vibe, our dedicated event staff will help customize the layout and atmosphere to match your vision.

Large room with massive stone fireplace, brick walls, and long wooden tables

Balcony seating with high top tables and brewing equipment nearby

Dedicated Team, Smooth Execution

Planning an event can be stressful. But at Common Roots Albany Outpost, our goal is to make it feel easy.

From your first inquiry to the event day, you’ll work with the same dedicated event coordinator every step of the way. An experienced point person who knows the space, understands your vision, and makes sure everything comes together just right.

Whether you’re deciding which space best fits your vision or choosing the right menu for your guests, our coordinator will guide you through the entire process. We’ll help with floor plans, timelines, food and beverage selections, and day-of logistics, so you can focus on hosting, not troubleshooting.

Our hospitality team is experienced putting on all types of events, from formal corporate dinners to casual birthday gatherings. No matter the size or type of event, we’re here to make sure things run smoothly behind the scenes, so your event feels seamless from start to finish.

You bring the reason to celebrate. We’ll handle the rest.

“The entire process from our initial request to the last moments of the event was so easy. They were responsive to all of our questions, made every effort to understand what our needs were, and explained how Common Roots could meet them.”
Laurie Rankin

“I cannot recommend them enough. The staff is amazing and friendly. The food is incredible. It made for a really special evening and the next chance I get to use them again, I will.”
Charlie Mahoney

“My husband and I had our elopement after party here and it was perfect! It couldn't have gone any smoother. Easy, fun, and professional.”
Andrea Tabor

“We have heard so many wonderful things about the event, the location, the people, the food and the atmosphere. Thank you all so much for your hospitality, kindness, and collaboration!”
Laura Jensen

Award-Winning Beer and Scratch-Made Fare, Tailored to Your Event

We strive to deliver food and beverage options that live up to the occasion for your event. Treat your guests to a selection of our award-winning beer, alongside a curated selection of wine and spirits. It’s the perfect complement to a menu built entirely in-house, featuring scratch-made fare and customizable stations that can be tailored to your preference.

Guests can choose from crowd-pleasers like smash-style burger sliders, wraps, tacos, and pizzas. With plenty of options, including vegetarian (gluten friendly) choices, you can mix and match to create a spread that suits your vibe, whether it’s casual or more refined.

When it comes to drinks, we offer flexible bar packages to match your needs and budget. Hosts can opt for a full open bar, cash bar, or choose one of our hybrid options. Our limited bar package allows you to set a price limit for open bar, transitioning to a cash bar after a certain price is hit. Alternatively, a ticketed bar gives guests a number of drink tickets to be used before switching over to a cash bar.

Crispy chicken on a fluffy bun with fresh slaw and pickles.

Let’s Make it Happen

Interested in hosting your event at the Albany Outpost? Follow the links below to explore our menu options and view sample drink lists. Fill out an inquiry form to get started on planning your event!

Our Spaces

Inquire Today

Menu Options

May 29

4 bags of Common Roots House Blend Coffee

What is Specialty Coffee

By Nolan Blog

What is Specialty Coffee

Specialty coffee is the top tier of coffee quality. It’s known for its smooth, balanced flavor and clean finish without that harsh bitterness you might find in commercial roasts. These beans are usually roasted in small batches and sold fresh. Delivering a cup with more depth and character. Grown in high-altitude, tropical regions, specialty coffee is also sourced through ethical practices like fair trade and direct trade, which support both farmers and the environment.

If you’re already deep into your coffee journey or just starting, specialty coffee offers an elevated caffeination experience.

What Qualifies as Specialty Coffee?

To earn the title of “specialty,” coffee beans must score 80 points or more on a 100-point scale. This grading is done by certified Q Graders. These professional tasters evaluate aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and defects. Only beans that pass this rigorous test are graded specialty.

At Common Roots Coffee Company, our head roaster Luke Rock is a CQI-certified Q Grader. He uses those same standards in our process, making sure each roast is in the top quality tier.

How We Source Our Coffee

We exclusively use ethically sourced, specialty-grade beans from Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. Our sourcing approach puts sustainability and fair trade first. We partner with small farms that are fair trade certified, Rainforest Alliance members, and are often organic and female-owned. Many also focus on water conservation and apiary-friendly practices.

By paying a premium for these beans, we help small, independent farmers compete without relying on mass production. Unlike commercial coffee, which often uses chemical-heavy sun cultivation, our farms grow shade-grown coffee in healthy ecosystems that preserve biodiversity.

Every bag of green coffee we roast is handpicked with care. We evaluate origin, processing method, and flavor potential with guidance from our green coffee partners, like Covoya Coffee. This lets us consistently deliver coffee that tastes great and reflects our values.

Our Roasting Approach

When a new variant of green coffee arrives, we start small. A 100-gram test roast helps us fine-tune for flavor before we move to larger batches. The pilot batch allows us to make educated adjustments and dial in the roast before scaling up. Perfecting the roast of new variants is paramount in bringing out the best character representation for the roast.

We look to develop the bean’s natural sweetness, build a satisfying body, and create a balanced, low-acid roast. The goal? Perfecting the roast to deliver a cup that’s smooth, and easy to enjoy though any brew method.

Small Batch Coffee

While all of our coffee products start with high-quality specialty beans, our Small Batch Coffee series takes things a step further. Launching in the coming weeks, this rotating lineup will highlight carefully selected single origin coffees sourced from distinct growing regions around the world. Each roast is handcrafted in small quantities by our team in Glens Falls, ensuring maximum freshness and precision.

We dial in the roast level to bring out the unique flavor profile of each bean—whether it’s a bright and citrusy Ethiopian or a rich, chocolatey Colombian. If you’re looking for fresh roasted coffee beans with real character, our Small Batch Coffee offerings are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the world of specialty coffee.

What About Cold Brew?

That same attention to detail carries over into our canned cold brew. We work with McManus, a co-packing partner that uses cold chain packaging to preserve roast quality. This lets us design roasts specifically for cold extraction, bringing out a smooth, sweet profile with low acidity.

The cans are also pasteurized, making them shelf-stable without sacrificing taste. You can pour one over ice or sip it straight from the can and still get that fresh-roasted character we’re proud of.

Ready to Try Specialty Coffee?

Whether you’re curious about specialty coffee or looking to shake up your usual routine, we’ve got you covered. Order online anytime, or stop by the Flagship Taproom, the Café at the Bierhall & Barrelhouse, or our Albany Outpost. You can also find our coffee at local Market 32 locations.

No matter where you pick it up, you’re getting coffee that’s thoughtfully sourced, skillfully roasted, and ready to enjoy.

Shop Whole Bean Coffee

Cold Brew Cans

May 01

Sycamore Tree infront of the Common Roots Albany Outpost

Spring 2025

By Nolan FoundersMessages

A Tree Grows in Albany

As you might have guessed, we love trees. They are not only a dominant feature of our company logo, but they also represent the very ethos of our business and how we view community and its resilience and connections though our common roots. This spring, as you wander through neighborhoods or your favorite hiking trails, take a moment and notice the trees there…the old and the new. Trees are cool!

On one of my doggie walks in our neighborhood in Glens Falls, I’ve noticed the new trees that have been planted by our city. They are still getting established and need some extra care with watering and staking to keep the wind from pushing them over. New tree plantings are an investment for future generations and always bring a smile to my face. As a science and history guy, I must admit that it’s the old trees that really get my imagination going. Especially in established neighborhoods like ours. If you allow some personification here…you know these trees have seen some things in their lives! They’ve had to put up with less-than-ideal growing conditions. Limited soil, sidewalks, road salt, heat, ice storms, spongy moth infestations…you name it, the old trees have been through it and yet they’ve persevered…some for hundreds of years.

What’s also remarkable is that we now understand that trees need each other! They need community and interact through a complex mycorrhizal network of soil fungi and other organism. Forest tree communities have a distinct advantage in this regard over their urban counterparts and yet… even the urban trees have somehow found community and a way to survive.

Continuing the tree analogy, our brewery in South Glens Falls just celebrated ten years of business back in December. In “tree years”, we would still be a young, immature specimen. Like the young tree, our business has flourished because we found a caring community connection here.

A little over a year ago we also acquired the CH Evans Brewery Company in Albany that had its “roots” dating back to 1786 in the Hudson Valley. Like those old trees, we were very excited to acquire the old building that now houses our Outpost in Albany. We think this old building is magnificent and has seen some stuff in its history and still has a story to tell.

Old buildings, like old trees, still need a connection to community to thrive. Part of our mission at the Albany Outpost is to not only honor this old building but to recreate a new community that will thrive here. The renovation of the building and our investment in Albany was a natural extension for both our business and our Foundation… one we are committed to see thrive and grow.

We know caring for trees in an urban environment can be a challenge, but we also know that with the right care and connection to community…they too can thrive.

Common Roots Brewing Company and our Foundation are committed to making those connections and thriving in the Capital Region and beyond. When you visit us at the Outpost…take a moment a say hello to the beautiful American Sycamore (Plantanus occidentalis) growing near our front entrance. The tree is about 80 years old right now and with some love and the right conditions, it should continue to grow for another 100 years or more!

Our Sycamore tree, let’s call her Francie, can be our symbol of hope and resilience in Albany as we all look to face the challenges of an uncertain future. At Common Roots we are confident that if we continue to support each other and stay connected, we can all flourish in challenging times.

Cheers to connections to old friends and the new ones we make every day.

Apr 09

Rising From the Ashed 4 Pack infront of taproom

Brewing For A Cause

By Nolan Blog

Brewing for a Cause

Since opening our doors in 2014, Common Roots Brewing Company has been directed by our core principles: healthy living, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusiveness. These pillars continue to guide us as we grow and serve our community and are exemplified in our cause beers.

One of our favorite ways to support organizations with like-minded values is by doing what we do best: brewing great beer to support great causes. From clean water advocacy to celebrating diversity and inclusion, our “cause beers” are brewed to serve a bigger purpose. Here are a few releases that are making an impact in our local community this year.

Rising From The Ashes

Rising from the Ashes is a commemorative cause beer that benefits the Common Roots Foundation. The foundation was created to elevate and assist our community in times of need and promote our shared values of creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and safe community. The most recent iteration of Rising from the Ashes featured an Italian Pilsner brewed with CMC Euro-Pils, and hopped with Saphir & Hersbrucker. Previous years have featured IPA and Double IPA variations – all brewed with the same sense of purpose.

Pure Water, Pure Beer

Clean water is essential for a thriving community – and for brewing exceptional beer. Pure Water, Pure Beer is a crisp lager, brewed to support our friends at the New York Section American Water Works Association (AWWA). Their mission to building a better world through better water is one we proudly support. The AWWA shares many of our core principles, particularly regarding sustainable practices. They provide expertise, resources, and advocacy to meet the evolving needs of water systems and the communities they serve. Pure Water, Pure Beer will be available on 4/18 and symbolizes our gratitude for the AWWA’s work in our region.

SHMD Good Fortune

Each spring, we support the South High Marathon Dance (SHMD), with special edition cans of Good Fortune IPA. This beloved community tradition is a staple in our area. Each year, we feature new can art with designs from local artists. Proceeds from 4-packs of this special edition can art directly to support SHMD’s fundraising efforts. We also host a pre-dance Happy Hour, where a portion of every beverage sold is donated to the South High Marathon Dance.

Carousel of Colors

Brewed in collaboration with our friends at Saratoga Pride, Carousel of Colors IPA has become an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and inclusion. Released each June, proceeds from the sale of this beer support Saratoga Pride’s mission to foster and support a thriving LGBTQ+ community in our region. To further the celebration, we host an annual release party and Saratoga Pride Happy Hour, bringing people together over great beer, and the shared interest in supporting a meaningful cause.

Think Pink, Drink Pink

Each year, we participate in the Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day, an initiative celebrating women and non-binary individuals in the fermented beverage and alcohol industry. Since 2020, this annual brew has been featured on our tap lines – including this year’s hazy pale ale crafted with a unique hop blend from our friends at Yakima Chief.

Cheers to Giving Back

At Common Roots, we believe great beer has the power to bring people together and catalyze meaningful change. Whether it’s protecting our clean water sources, supporting local organizations, or uplifting our community, each of these cause beers exemplify our dedication to making a difference. So, next time you’re enjoying a perfect pour at the Flagship Taproom or Albany Outpost, know you’re raising a glass to something bigger than the beer.

Cheers!

Learn More About the Common Roots Foundation

Mar 10

Winter 2025

By Nolan Blog, FoundersMessages

Our Upstate New York winters are a good time to be reflective and plan for the coming months. This past December our brewery celebrated its 10 Year Anniversary and for us it was certainly a time to celebrate, be reflective and to ask ourselves what’s next?

The reflective exercise was the easy part and while we certainly had our ups and downs as a business, in retrospect, we all felt especially fortunate to be where we are now. The fire in 2019 followed by the pandemic in 2020 could have been death blows to our company but, through it all and with the help of a lot of people, we were able to maintain our vision for growing a community around making beer. The uncertainties we faced back then seemed daunting and yet we felt confident that if we kept to our core principles, treat people well, make a delicious product, create a warm and welcoming environment…it should work out.

As we know now, so far, things have worked out! We rebuilt our brewery and taproom, survived the pandemic, added a special event space and cafe, started a foundation, expanded our company into Albany, and started a coffee company while adding hard cider to our list of delicious craft beverages we produce.

When we started Common Roots Brewing Company, we had a saying, “Expect good things to happen!” This simple phrase is our way of focusing our intentions on a vision of where we want to be as business. It still requires us to do the work, but it also allows for a positive vision of what that “good” looks like. Just saying we want to be a successful business would not be enough. In our case, we defined success in a different context. Our intentions were not just to make delicious beer but to create a community and an experience around brewing that would bring people together and create a sustainable business. Taking an abandoned warehouse and transforming it into a brewery and community hub was our vision then and, in many ways, it continues today. The new spaces we created in South Glens Falls and Albany were intentionally designed to encourage gatherings of all kinds. Bringing people together in welcoming and safe places is good for the collective soul and the economy of a community and hopefully, our bottom line.

What will the next ten years bring? The one sure thing we do know is that the market has changed and just making delicious beer is not enough. For the first time in our history, according to the Brewer’s Association, we’ve seen more brewery closures than openings. Fortunately, at Common Roots we’ve kept a close eye on the market trends and have made, what we believe are some strategic decisions to keep Common Roots relevant and true to our core beliefs. Critical to those core beliefs is our firm understanding that our success as a company is indelibly linked to the success of our community.

Supporting one another and our local businesses will be especially important in the coming months and years. We know that just expecting good things to happen is not enough; we all need to take actions that are measurable and meaningful. As a consumer, you have many choices where to spend your hard earned dollars and purposefully spending those dollars at local businesses makes a measurable and more meaningful impact in our communities.

In the coming years, we can safely predict that Common Roots will continue to invest in our community and work with our partners that helped bring us here. As you plan gatherings with friends or business colleagues, we hope you’ll continue to join us at Common Roots and help us grow a more sustainable and vibrant community!

Thank you.