Narrowing down the best breweries in Denver can be rather difficult given that there are dozens of them in the metro area, many of which are churning out award-winning creations in some pretty amazing digs. In fact, Colorado breweries took home the second largest medal haul at the Great American Beer Festival this year in October, and a handful of those were doled out to deserving Denver brewers. Lounge on a sun-drenched patio or warm up in a cozy taproom at these fantastic breweries in the Mile High City whose crafty creations sure to tickle your taste buds. Down the hatch!

1. Cerebral Brewing

Whether you want a traditional brew or one that pushes the beer lover's envelope, this science-based operation at 1477 Monroe Street off Colfax Avenue has got the brew for you. You'll find consistent, high quality beer in both their "Constants" like their Milk Stout and IPA, as well as roughly a dozen "Variables," including their wondrous Work From Home, made with maple syrup and cold brew coffee. Cerebral Brewing also took home a Gold medal this year at the GABF for their Brett Beer, Dreamy Thing.

2. Fiction Beer Company

Fiction Beer Company is a unique literature-inspired brewing company located in Park Hill at 7101 East Colfax Avenue. Their mission is to tell a story with each of their craft beer recipes, using flavors, aromas, and textures to tell the tale. Don't miss out on their Alternate Present, a German-Style Schwarzbier that snagged a Silver medal at the GABF.

3. Great Divide Brewing Co.

Since 1994, Great Divide has been brewing exceptional beers of all styles and flavors and has become "one of America’s most decorated and celebrated craft breweries." Their delicious beers paired with their dedication to the local community and the environment deserves all the gold medals in my book. We believe! Find Great Divide at 2201 Arapahoe Street Downtown.

4. Call to Arms Brewing Company

Call to Arms is a labor of love crafted by three guys whose aim is "to create a timeless, moody, neighborhood-friendly brewery focusing on craft beers, artisan provisions, and community awareness." They got their start at Avery Brewing Company in Boulder (which is also fab!), and are now at the helm of an amazing taproom at 4526 Tennyson Street.

5. Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project

Located in the spectacular Source in RiNo, Crooked Stave's 20-barrel brewhouse is slinging delicious signature sours that have developed a cult following in the Mile High City. Stop by their spot at 3350 Brighton Boulevard and get your sour on!

6. Little Machine Beer

Little Machine in Jefferson Park has an industrial retro vibe and boasts unique and seasonal beers created with a brewing system that is entirely Colorado-made. Find Little Machine at 2924 West 20th Avenue and embrace the local!

7. Spangalang Brewery

Spangalang Brewery is providing the people of Five Points (and beyond) with fresh, high-quality micro brews and seasonal specials like their Nightwalker Imperial Stout and their Birth of Cool Gose with cucumber juice. Spangalang is located at 2736 Welton Avenue.

8. Ratio Beerworks

The guys at Ratio went from punk rockers to brew masters by learning the craft in Germany and perfecting their skills here in Colorado. Their hip, eclectic taproom at 2920 Larimer Street has art and music programs, as well as a fantastic dog-friendly courtyard with games, and a 20-barrel brewing system, which means the well will never run dry! Ratio rocks!

9. Renegade Brewing Company

This Lincoln Park Renegade brews "offensively delicious" craft beers at their original taproom at 9th and Sante Fe, as well as their new 15,000 square-foot warehouse-style brewery located just eight blocks south. It's the perfect spot to pre-game before a First Friday Art Walk or just a night out on the town. Find them at 925 West 9th Avenue, with a perfectly dog-friendly patio and a plethora of scrumptious beer.

10. Baere Brewing Company

This small 2.5-barrel brewhouse at 320 Broadway Street in Baker, just celebrated their two year anniversary and a big win at the GABF for their Classic Saison, which took home a Bronze. At the Baere Den, they're "committed to supporting local products, sustainable solutions, community endeavors and an all around good time." Sold!

11. Denver Beer Co.

Another Fido-friendly joint providing the good people of the metro area with delectable brews, is the landmark Denver Beer Co. at 1695 Platte Street. Don't miss their Drama Queen, which snagged a Gold in the Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer category at GABF.

12. Deep Draft Brewing Company

Nestled in a lovely little nook at 1604 East 17th Avenue in City Park West, this fine brewing company is a local favorite which also has great food, rotating art, and rockin' live bands. With a killer ambiance and tasty brews, Deep Draft will reel you in and never let you go!

Need something to soak up all those satisfying suds? Chow down at these 10 spots that are serving up the best fries in the Mile High City!