Covert Artisan Ales, Sioux Falls, SD
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
FAST FACTS:
Address: 601 S Watson Ave Unit 100, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Hours:
Sun-Thurs Closed
Fri 4pm - 9pm
Sat 1 pm - 6 pm
Phone:
Dog-friendly: YES - everywhere
Parking: Small lot on site
First visited: 2/6/2026
Sometimes the best breweries are the smallest ones - the ones you will totally miss if you aren't looking for them, but absolutely won’t forget once you’re there. Covert Artisan Ales is that kind of place. Small location, huge personality, and one of the most exciting sour selections I’ve come across in all of my brewery tour adventures.
Covert Artisan Ales is a husband-and-wife brewery that they built around creativity, curiosity, and wanting to do things a little differently. The idea behind Covert wasn't about mass production or huge crowds - the focus was small batches, big ideas, and beers that are intentional.
I think the name Covert fits them perfectly. This is a brewery that operates somewhat under the radar, quietly putting out some amazing beers without the need for a massive taproom or overly-flashy production. It’s intimate, personal, and very clearly a labor of love.
What's On Tap?
Believe me, I don’t say this lightly - I hit the jackpot with the sour selection here. Every single one brought something new to the table, and that alone makes Covert worth seeking out. And it honestly bums me out that they're 4 hours away from home! Their flavors were amazing, some of the best I've had. Easily putting them in the top 3.
Lawn Darts - Fruited Sour Ale | 5% ABV
Passionfruit, lime & guava
WOW. This one immediately got my attention. Nice and bright, punchy, and unique - just like I want them... Lawn Darts balances tartness and fruitiness perfectly. It’s brought and punchy without being overwhelming and it was incredible.
4.5 / 5
Saturn – Sour Ale | 7% ABV | Gluten-Free
Gin oak-aged with passionfruit, orgeat & farnum
You could definitely tell this one was a lot more complex and layered with different flavors. Still tasty, with more of a fun cocktail-like twist, but I did prefer the tartness of Lawn Darts. That said, this is a really well-done sour and still a great option if you like depth and appreciate the uniqueness.
After School Special – Fruited Sour | 7% ABV | Gluten-Free
Peanut butter & concord grape
Same name as a Nouvelle favorite by a similar name (Pack Lunch), but completely different - and I LOVE it - even (do I dare say) more than the local version. This isn’t the thick, heavy PB&J sour you might expect. It’s light, smoot, and somehow still nails that super unique flavor combination. It’s weird in the best way, and I could totally see myself stocking my fridge with this one.
Drink Score: 4.5/5
Food Finds
They've got fresh made popcorn, that's enough in itself to make me happy! Not to mention, the friendly folks in the taproom offered me some of their pizza! It was a big win for me! But - if you're going in hungry, it's highly recommended that you pick something up on your way! Otherwise, you'll be filling up on popcorn - though that's not such a bad thing!
Food Score: 2.5/5
The Vibe Inside & Out
Covert is small. There’s no getting around it - but honestly, it's part of the charm. The space feels personal, cozy, and very welcoming. You’re close to the beer, close to the people pouring it, and close to other patrons in that “we all discovered something cool” kind of way.
It’s not really a place for a big group takeover - but it is the place for savoring truly good beer, throwing a game of darts, and just enjoying a Friday night out.
Vibe Score: 3/5
Dog Friendly Details:
Yes, pups are welcome here, and that alone earns Covert some extra love in my book. Seeing dogs hanging out while their humans enjoy good beer just adds to the relaxed, personal connection-driven feel of the space.
Score: 5/5
Insider Info
Best time to visit: Covert isn’t open every day - which makes it even more worth your time when it is. From what I’ve seen, the best times to check this place out are Friday or Saturday evenings - since that's when the taproom is open!
Parking: There’s a parking lot right near the taproom, and if that’s full, you’ll find street parking within a block or two.
Merch: Covert doesn’t have an enormous merch wall - but what they do have is really good. Love their simple concept hoodies, along with their selection of beanies, hats and I'm sure they'd sell you a glass if you simply asked!
Tapped In Takeaway
Covert Artisan Ales is a must for sour lovers. The space may be small, but the beers are anything but...they're creative, bold, and very well executed. Add in the husband-and-wife ownership, dog-friendly taproom, and a clear passion for doing things different than the rest, and you’ve got one of Sioux Falls’ (and the Mid-Wests') most exciting hidden gems.
If you love sours and appreciate breweries that aren’t afraid to get weird (in the best way), put this one at the top of your list.
Final Score: 4.5/5
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