Scratch Brewing Company
4.8 (346 on Google)
About Scratch Brewing Company
Scratch Brewing Company is a farmhouse brewery and farm in Ava, Illinois, about five miles from the Shawnee National Forest. It brews with estate-grown and foraged ingredients. The brewery says Outside Magazine named it one of the top four breweries for foraged beer.
The beer list rotates. Nettle, elderberry, ginger, dandelion, maple sap, hickory, lavender, juniper and chanterelle mushrooms all find their way into the brews. Owners Marika Josephson and Aaron Kleidon aim to showcase the terroir of Southern Illinois.
In 2017 the brewery opened the Serpent Room, filled with floor-to-ceiling art and sculptures by Brett Douglas Hunter. The room can be rented for private events and for non-profits. The brewery says All About Beer called it one of the most beautiful places to drink beer in the world.
The brewery also says its owners have been nominated for four James Beard Awards. Scratch bottles special release offerings.
From Scratch's own website and its Google listing, read October 31, 2026.
Been here? Write the first Brewery.fyi review.
Amenities
- Bar onsite
Map
Questions people ask
Does Scratch Brewing take credit cards?
No. Scratch is cash only, so bring cash with you.
Can I take beer home from Scratch?
Yes. Many beers can be filled into growlers, and others are sold in bottles. To-go orders are also available by appointment Monday through Thursday.
Can I bring a large group?
Parties of 12 or more should call ahead. Buses are not allowed.
Can I rent a space for a private event?
Yes. The Serpent Room is available to rent for private events and for non-profits.
Which breweries are close by?
Big Muddy Brewing in Murphysboro is 8.3 miles away. Route 51 Brewing Company and Banquet Center in Elkville is 11 miles away, and St Nicholas Brewing Co in Du Quoin is 14 miles away.
Answers come from Scratch's website and its Google listing, read October 31, 2026.
Before you visit Scratch
Bring cash, because Scratch does not take cards. The brewery is open for on-site enjoyment on the weekend, and groups of 12 or more should call ahead.
The draft list changes, so check scratchbeer.com before you go. The site also has the news page and details on renting the Serpent Room.
Big Muddy Brewing in Murphysboro is 8.3 miles away, and Route 51 Brewing Company and Banquet Center in Elkville is 11 miles. Both are an easy second stop if you want to spend the day in southern Illinois.