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Wisconsin is known for its beer culture, and for good reason. The state has a rich history of brewing, dating back to the mid-1800s when German immigrants brought their brewing traditions with them. Today, Wisconsin is home to over 200 breweries, each with its unique style and flavor.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking for a fun weekend activity, exploring the best breweries in Wisconsin is a must. From small, family-owned operations to larger, well-established breweries, there’s something for everyone.
Some of the best Wisconsin breweries include Central Waters Brewing Company, New Glarus Brewing Company, and Lakefront Brewery. Each of these breweries has its distinct style and offers a wide variety of beers to choose from.
History of Wisconsin Breweries
Wisconsin has a long and rich history of brewing beer, dating back to the Territorial era in the 1830s. The growth of breweries in Wisconsin is often linked to the increased settlement of German immigrants in the state. By the Civil War, Wisconsin boasted nearly 160 breweries, and Milwaukee earned a reputation as “the beer capital of the world,” the home of such prominent companies as Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz.
During Prohibition, many breweries in Wisconsin were forced to close their doors. However, after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the brewing industry in Wisconsin began to recover. Today, Wisconsin is home to over 200 breweries, producing a wide variety of beers, from traditional German-style lagers to innovative craft brews.
Some of the oldest breweries in Wisconsin are still in operation today. For example, Minhas Craft Brewery was established in 1845 and is one of the oldest breweries in the Midwest. The existing facility has expanded over the years to include three city blocks. Within this complex is the Herb and Helen Haydock World of Beer Memorabilia Museum, valued at more than $1 million.
In recent years, the craft beer industry has exploded in Wisconsin, with many small, independent breweries popping up across the state. These breweries often focus on using local ingredients and experimenting with unique flavors and brewing techniques. Some of the most popular craft breweries in Wisconsin include New Glarus Brewing Company and Lakefront Brewery.
Top Rated Wisconsin Breweries
When it comes to craft beer, Wisconsin is a state that should not be overlooked. With over 200 breweries, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here are three of the top-rated Wisconsin breweries that are worth a visit.
New Glarus Brewing Company
New Glarus Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery located in the quaint town of New Glarus. Known for its fruit beers, particularly the Spotted Cow, New Glarus Brewing Company has won numerous awards and gained a loyal following.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the brewery and enjoy a tasting in the tasting room. The brewery also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and beer to take home.
Lakefront Brewery
Lakefront Brewery, located in Milwaukee, is a brewery that has been around since 1987. Known for its Riverwest Stein beer, Lakefront Brewery has won numerous awards and gained a loyal following. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and enjoy a tasting in the taproom. The brewery also has a restaurant that serves up delicious food that pairs well with their beers.
These are just a few of the top-rated Wisconsin breweries that are worth a visit. Each brewery has its unique style and flavor, making it a great way to experience the diverse craft beer scene in Wisconsin.
Craft Breweries in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a craft beer lover’s paradise, with over two hundred breweries in the state. The breweries in Wisconsin offer a wide variety of flavors and styles, from classic German lagers to hoppy IPAs. Here are two of the best craft breweries in Wisconsin.
Central Waters Brewing Company
Located in Amherst, Central Waters Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The brewery has won numerous awards for its beer, including the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup. Central Waters is known for its barrel-aged beers, which are aged in bourbon, brandy, and other barrels to develop unique flavors.
Some of the brewery’s most popular beers include the Satin Solitude Imperial Stout, the Bourbon Barrel Stout, and the Cassian Sunset Imperial Stout.
Lake Louie Brewing
Lake Louie Brewing is located in Verona, just outside of Madison. The brewery was founded in 2013 by two Wisconsin natives who wanted to create a brewery that celebrated the state’s brewing heritage.
Lake Louie’s flagship beer is the Badger Club Amber, a smooth and easy-drinking amber ale. The brewery also offers a variety of seasonal and limited-release beers, including the Chocolate Lab Porter and the Barrel-Aged Porter.
Both of these breweries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the best beer in Wisconsin. Whether you’re a Wisconsin native or just visiting, be sure to add these craft breweries to your must-visit list.
Wisconsin Breweries with Unique Beers
If you’re looking for unique and innovative beers, Wisconsin has plenty of breweries to offer. Here are two breweries that stand out for their creative and unusual brews.
MobCraft Beer Brewery and Taproom
Located in Milwaukee, MobCraft Beer Brewery and Taproom is known for its crowdsourced beers. Each month, customers can submit their ideas for a beer, and the most popular ideas are brewed and served in the taproom. Some of their unique brews include a S’mores Porter, a Peanut Butter and Jelly Ale, and a Beer-rito Mexican Lager.
In addition to their crowdsourced beers, MobCraft also offers a variety of other creative brews. Their flagship beer, Bat$h!t Crazy, is a Belgian-style ale with a twist – it’s brewed with coriander and orange peel. They also have a Sour Series, which includes beers like the Sour Golden Ale and the Sour Raspberry Ale.
Raised Grain Brewing Company
Located in Waukesha, Raised Grain Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery that prides itself on using local ingredients and experimenting with different brewing techniques. Some of their unique brews include the Black Walnut Belgian Dubbel, a dark beer with a nutty flavor, and the Kilted Kölsch, a light beer with a Scottish twist.
Raised Grain also has a Barrel-Aged Series, which includes beers that have been aged in bourbon, rum, or wine barrels. These beers have a unique depth of flavor and are perfect for sipping and savoring. Some of their barrel-aged brews include the Bourbon Barrel-Aged Black Walnut Belgian Dubbel and the Rum Barrel-Aged Coffee Stout.
Both MobCraft Beer Brewery and Raised Grain Brewing Company are great options for beer lovers who are looking for something unique and different. With their creative and innovative brews, they are sure to satisfy even the most adventurous palates.
Wisconsin Breweries with Tours
If you’re a fan of beer, Wisconsin is the place to be. The state is home to some of the best breweries in the country, many of which offer tours to visitors. Here are two of the most popular breweries in Wisconsin that you can tour.
Leinenkugel’s
Leinenkugel’s is a brewery that has been around since 1867. Founded by a German family, the brewery has been in Wisconsin almost as long as Molson. Leinenkugel offers tours of its brewery to the public, where visitors can learn about the history of the brewery and the beer-making process.
The tour includes a visit to the brew house, bottling line, and the Leinie Lodge, where visitors can sample some of the brewery’s beers.
Miller Brewing Company
Miller Brewing Company is one of the largest breweries in the world and is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The brewery offers tours to visitors, where they can learn about the history of the company and the beer-making process. The tour includes a visit to the brew house, packaging center, and the historic Miller Caves. Visitors can also sample some of the brewery’s beers in the Miller Inn.
Both Leinenkugel’s and Miller Brewing Company offer great tours for beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of the breweries or the beer-making process, these tours are a great way to spend an afternoon in Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin is home to over 200 breweries, making it a beer lover’s paradise. From the mega-breweries that put Wisconsin on the map to the humble craft breweries that have blossomed into beer powerhouses, there is something for everyone in this state.
After thorough research, we have compiled a list of the 25 best breweries in Wisconsin, based on their unique offerings, quality of beer, and overall experience. Each brewery on our list is worth a visit, and we have provided information on how to find them.
Whether you’re looking for a classic lager or a bold IPA, Wisconsin has it all. Some of the breweries on our list specialize in certain types of beer, while others offer a wide range of options. Many of them also have food options, making them a great spot for a meal or snack along with your beer.
Overall, Wisconsin’s beer culture is a world of its own, and we highly recommend exploring some of the breweries on our list if you’re ever in the area. Cheers to great beer and great experiences!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one beer in Wisconsin?
The most popular beer in Wisconsin is Spotted Cow, a farmhouse ale made by New Glarus Brewing Company. It is a regional favorite and widely considered one of the most important beers to the craft beer scene in Wisconsin.
What are the major brewers in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is home to many major brewers, including MillerCoors, Pabst Brewing Company, and New Glarus Brewing Company. These brewers have a strong presence in the state and produce a variety of beers that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
What is the best-selling beer in Wisconsin?
The best-selling beer in Wisconsin is Miller Lite, a light beer made by MillerCoors. It is a popular choice among beer drinkers in the state and is widely available at bars and restaurants.
What famous beer is made in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is known for its beer, and many famous beers are made in the state. Some of the most famous beers include Spotted Cow, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, and Miller High Life.
What are some of the best breweries in Wisconsin?
There are many great breweries in Wisconsin, but some of the best include New Glarus Brewing Company, Lakefront Brewery, and Ale Asylum. These breweries produce a variety of high-quality beers and offer a unique experience for visitors.
