Milwaukee, WI Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Itinerary
Milwaukee, WI has firmly cemented itself as a bastion for craft beer enthusiasts. With a rich brewing history and an ever-growing scene of innovative microbreweries, the city is a haven for those seeking to explore the world of locally crafted beers. As an integral part of the city's culture, the craft breweries in Milwaukee offer a diverse range of styles and flavors, catering to a wide array of palates.
The local beer guide to Milwaukee provides insight into the selections offered by the city's top breweries. Among them, Gathering Place Brewing is known for its Treffpunkt, a beer celebrated for its crisp flavor profile and sessionable nature due to its low alcohol by volume. Eagle Park Brewing Company, noted for their inventive brews, signifies the city's acceptance and encouragement of fresh talent in the craft beer industry.
Navigating Milwaukee's craft beer scene becomes an exciting journey with the help of such guides, including interactive brewery maps and expert local perspectives. The city's breweries not only serve up exceptional brews but also immerse visitors in the welcoming community atmosphere that has long been associated with Milwaukee's beer culture. Whether a resident or a traveler, a comprehensive guide is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to experience the best of Milwaukee's craft beer offerings.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Milwaukee
Milwaukee's craft beer scene is a dynamic tapestry, woven from its rich brewing history and sustained by a culture that cherishes quality and innovation. This city's resurgence as a beacon for beer enthusiasts aligns with its storied past as a beer capital.
Brewing History and Culture
Milwaukee's brewing roots reach back to the 1840s, spearheaded by European immigrants who brought their beer-making traditions. Beer quickly became a cornerstone of the local culture, fostering a community that celebrated its brewing prowess. Over the years, Milwaukee became synonymous with beer, housing some of the country's largest breweries.
The city's passion for brewing is evident in the modern craft scene. City Lights Brewing Co. is a testament to this legacy, merging historical ambiance with modern brewing techniques to create beers that resonate with both tradition and contemporary tastes.
Milwaukee as the Beer Capital
Once dubbed "Beer Capital of the World," Milwaukee continues to uphold its reputation with over 30 craft breweries operating as of 2022. These breweries range from established names to innovative newcomers, each contributing unique flavors and styles.
Established Breweries: Institutions such as Lakefront Brewery have helped sustain Milwaukee’s title as a beer capital through decades of consistent quality and diversity in their offerings.
Newcomers: New breweries continue to emerge, enriching the city's beer tapestry with modern twists and fresh perspectives. They don't just ride trends; they set them.
The craft beer movement in Milwaukee is not merely surviving; it's thriving, driven by a community that values its deep-seated brewing history and looks forward to its spirited evolution.
Prominent Breweries and Brewpubs
Milwaukee boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, home to both established breweries and exciting up-and-comers. Below is a list of prominent breweries and brewpubs that make Milwaukee a must-visit destination for beer aficionados.
Eagle Park Brewing Company
Eagle Park Brewing Company is recognized for its innovative approach to brewing, often experimenting with new flavors and styles. It has quickly become a staple in the Milwaukee craft beer community.
Good City Brewing
Good City Brewing focuses on quality ingredients to produce a wide array of beers, from bold IPAs to rich stouts, catering to a multitude of palates. Their dedication to "Seek the Good" is reflected in their craft.
Mobcraft Beer
Mobcraft Beer distinguishes itself with a unique crowdsourced business model, taking customer suggestions for beer recipes and turning them into reality. This approach has garnered a loyal following and an array of unique brews.
Third Space Brewing
Known for creating a "third space" for people to gather and enjoy well-crafted beers, Third Space Brewing has a reputation for its balanced and flavorful offerings that provide a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Lakefront Brewery
Lakefront Brewery is a pioneer in the microbrewery movement in Milwaukee with a longstanding history. Their brewery tours are a popular attraction, providing insights into the brewing process and their sustainable practices.
Milwaukee Brewing Company
Milwaukee Brewing Company upholds the city's brewing traditions through a collection of both classic and modern beer styles. Their community-focused mindset is evident in their involvement in local events and sustainability efforts.
Raised Grain Brewing
Raised Grain Brewing has an emphasis on bold and adventurous beers, boasting an impressive selection that highlights the meticulous craft that goes into their brewing process.
Central Waters Brewing Co
Central Waters Brewing Co is renowned for environmental stewardship and a vast selection of barrel-aged brews. Their commitment to sustainability is as strong as their commitment to quality beer.
Exploring Different Beer Styles
Milwaukee's craft beer scene is as diverse as it is dynamic, showcasing a broad spectrum of flavors across various styles. Here's a closer look at the lagers and IPAs, as well as seasonal offerings that define the city's beer craftsmanship.
Lagers and IPAs
Milwaukee's local craft breweries proudly present a variety of lagers that are as crisp and refreshing as they are meticulously brewed. These lagers range from light and approachable to dark and complex, catering to a plethora of palates. MKE IPA from Milwaukee Brewing Company is a standout with its citrus aroma and balanced bitterness, thanks to Citra and Mosaic hops.
Notable lagers:
Light Lager: Crafted for clean, easy drinking
Dark Lager: Offers richer, more robust flavors
IPAs, or India Pale Ales, are a staple in the craft beer world and remain a favorite among Milwaukee beer enthusiasts. They are known for their hop character, ranging from juicy and fruity to piney and resinous.
Popular IPA profiles:
Juicy/Hazy: Characterized by a cloudy appearance and juicy, fruity hops
West Coast: Known for their clarity and pine-forward hop profile
Seasonal Specialties
Craft beer connoisseurs will find that Milwaukee brewers excel in matching their beer selection with the seasons. Seasonal specialties provide an opportunity to indulge in limited-time offerings that highlight seasonal ingredients and traditional brewing cycles.
Spring/Summer: Expect lighter, fruit-infused ales or crisp pilsners.
Fall/Winter: Brewers often turn to spiced ales or robust porters to complement the colder weather.
Brewers in Milwaukee bring creativity and seasonal sensibility to the table, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Craft Beer Tasting and Tours
Milwaukee's rich brewing heritage and vibrant craft beer scene make it an essential destination for beer enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of scheduled brewery tours and a diverse range of tasting rooms and taprooms, providing visitors with immersive experiences and the chance to savor local brews.
Scheduled Brewery Tours
Milwaukee Brewing Company offers a compelling dive into the local craft beer culture. Interested participants can book a tour at one of their two locations—613 S. 2nd St. or 1128 N. 9th St.—to explore the brewing process and sample their beer selection. The Explorium Brewpub also entertains visitors with a well-structured brewery tour that combines both education and tasting.
To Schedule a Tour:
Milwaukee Brewing Company: Tours offered throughout the week; reservations can be made by calling 414-964-2739 or online.
The Explorium Brewpub: For current tour schedules, it is recommended to contact the brewpub directly.
Tasting Rooms and Taprooms
Milwaukee's tasting rooms and taprooms present an informal, yet insightful way to enjoy craft beers directly from the source. City Lights Brewing is renowned for its cozy taproom atmosphere and variety of craft beers that reflect the innovative spirit of Milwaukee's local brewing scene. Patrons can savor a pint, get a growler filled, or just chat with the knowledgeable staff about their beer offerings.
Featured Taprooms:
City Lights Brewing: Offers a selection of crafted beers in a historic setting.
Other notable taprooms: Many local breweries host taprooms, where guests can enjoy the freshest beers and often limited-edition brews.
When visiting Milwaukee, these tasting and tour options offer a glimpse into the heart of the city's craft beer identity. For the most current and detailed information, potential visitors should refer to each brewery's official website or contact them directly.
Events and Community Engagement
Milwaukee's vibrant craft beer scene is not just about the beer itself; it's equally about the events and the sense of community that brings enthusiasts together. Whether it's through festivals that showcase local brews or gatherings that foster connections among beer lovers, Milwaukee stands out as a city that celebrates its brewing culture.
Beer Festivals and Events
Milwaukee plays host to a variety of beer festivals and events throughout the year, providing ample opportunity for both residents and visitors to engage with the local craft beer scene. These events feature a range of offerings, from new seasonal releases to rare finds:
Great Lakes Brew Fest: Featuring over 450 craft beers from nearly 100 breweries including many from Milwaukee, this festival combines the region's passion for craft beer with live music and proceeds supporting local causes.
Milwaukee Brewfest: This event offers samples from over 100 breweries focused on craft beer, including unique brews from local Milwaukee makers such as Dead Bird Brewing Co.
Craft Beer Week: A dedicated week celebrating Milwaukee’s beer culture, offering special events at various venues, including tap takeovers, pairings, and limited edition releases.
Local Craft Beer Community
The sense of community within Milwaukee's craft beer realm is strong and dynamic, with enthusiasts who are both knowledgeable and welcoming:
Brewery Tours and Tastings: Many of Milwaukee's craft breweries, like Dead Bird Brewing Co, open their doors to the public for behind-the-scenes tours and tastings, allowing an intimate look at the brewing process and a chance to connect with the artisans themselves.
Homebrew Clubs: There are multiple clubs where homebrewers and craft beer aficionados can share techniques, recipes, and their love of the craft.
Beer-Centric Social Clubs: Groups like WI Craft Notes bring together those with a taste for local brews to explore Milwaukee's beer scene, often featuring special events, discounts, and "meet the brewer" nights.
Milwaukee's beer events and community efforts combine to create a scene that's as much about camaraderie and shared experiences as it is about enjoying a good pint.
Pairing Food with Craft Beer
Milwaukee's craft beer scene is intricately tied to its food offerings, with a range of food options available at breweries and local eateries that complement the city's beer varieties.
Food Options at Breweries
Many breweries in Milwaukee understand the synergy between their beers and a well-matched culinary experience. They often feature on-site food trucks or menus designed to enhance the flavors of their craft beers. The presence of food trucks at these breweries provides a rotating selection of cuisines, turning each visit into a unique pairing opportunity. Food options may include anything from gourmet grilled cheese and artisanal pizzas to international dishes, each paired with a specific style of beer to heighten the taste experience.
Brewery food pairings might look like:
Crisp and Clean Beer: Paired with light fare such as salads or seafood.
Malty and Sweet Beer: Complemented by smoked meats or rich stews.
Dark and Roasty Beer: Ideal with chocolate desserts (What wine goes well with chocolate desserts?) or hearty burgers.
Hoppy and Bitter Beer: Enhanced by spicy dishes (What wine goes well with spicy dishes?) or sharp cheeses.
Fruity and Spicy Beer: Pairs well with tangy barbecue or sweet desserts.
Sour, Tart, and Funky Beer: Best with funky cheeses or tart fruit pies.
Milwaukee's Culinary Complements
In the heart of the city, restaurants like Nessun Dorma highlight Milwaukee's craft beer acumen with their curated menus. Such establishments expertly pair their dishes with local brews, offering a harmonious blend of Milwaukee's culinary delights. They select beers with flavor profiles that match or contrast their dishes, creating a balance of flavors that elevates the dining experience.
Examples of culinary complements:
Appetizers: A light pilsner may accompany bruschetta or shrimp cocktails. (What wine goes well with shrimp cocktail?)
Entrees: Amber ales can be paired with richer dishes like lamb or pork.
Desserts: Stout or porter makes a perfect match with chocolate or caramel desserts (What wine goes well with caramel desserts?).
In conclusion, whether one is savoring a meal at Nessun Dorma or enjoying a casual bite from a food truck at a local brewery, Milwaukee offers an array of choices for those looking to explore the art of food and craft beer pairing.
The Business of Craft Beer
The rise of local craft breweries in Milwaukee reflects a vibrant enterprise trend, shaping the city's image and offering diversity in the business landscape.
Craft Breweries as Enterprises
Milwaukee's craft breweries serve as significant enterprises, contributing to both tourism and the local economy. Two notable breweries include Bavarian Bierhaus and Stock House Brewing, both exemplifying how tradition and innovation can coalesce to form successful business models. Bavarian Bierhaus offers an experience steeped in German brewing traditions, while Stock House Brewing taps into the community-based approach, often engaging with local events and clientele.
Brewery Business Features
Bavarian Bierhaus Traditional German-style beer, authentic experience
Stock House Brewing Community engagement, local event participation
Sprecher Brewing, an established name in Milwaukee's craft beer scene, showcases how expansion and branding can lead to longevity and success within this industry. They highlight it's not just about brewing beer but also about crafting a well-loved brand.
The Role of Brewers and Owners
Brewers and owners are the linchpin of the craft beer industry. At Westallion, for instance, the owner's passion is palpable, and it translates into their beer portfolio which emphasizes quality and variety. The business acumen of these individuals is crucial, as they often wear multiple hats: managing logistics, marketing their brand, and ensuring their brewery remains a staple in a competitive market.
The success of breweries like Westallion often hinges on the owner's ability to innovate and adapt to changing market trends while maintaining the authenticity that draws in their customer base. Thus, owners not only dictate the business structure but also define the cultural impact of their breweries on the local community.
Staying Informed and Updated
In the dynamic landscape of Milwaukee craft beer, staying current is essential. Enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike rely on the latest information to navigate new brewery releases and events.
Keeping Up with New Releases
To keep abreast of the newest beer offerings, one should mark their calendars with release dates, often shared on breweries' social media pages and official websites. Untappd, a social networking service focused on beer, is a valuable tool where users can track and share their experiences with new brews. Here patrons can also see up-to-date reviews and ratings.
Follow Breweries on Social Media: Updates on latest brews, events, and exclusive releases.
Check Brewery Websites Regularly: For the most accurate dates and times of new releases.
Use Untappd: To track new beers and see what others are saying.
Resources for Craft Beer Aficionados
Sources for thorough information on Milwaukee's craft beer scene are plentiful. From online guides updated annually to local publications that feature brewery news, these resources are key for those wanting to stay informed.
Local Craft Beer Guides: Periodically revised with the latest brewery info.
Brewery Newsletters: Subscribe for the most updated announcements.
Milwaukee Brewery Events: Keep an eye on event calendars for tastings and festivals.
To remain up-to-date, enthusiasts should utilize tools that are regularly maintained and leverage community-driven platforms such as Untappd. It is advantageous for the beer aficionado to become familiar with reliable sources that specialize in the latest brewery happenings in Milwaukee.
Conclusion
Milwaukee's reputation as a heralded beer city is well-supported by its array of local craft breweries. These establishments showcase a blend of traditional brewing techniques and innovative approaches. The city's breweries cater to a variety of palates, from rich stouts to crisp lagers, ensuring there's a beverage for every type of beer enthusiast.
The following highlights summarize Milwaukee's craft beer scene:
Gathering Place Brewing is noted for its beers with crisp flavor profiles, particularly the Treffpunkt.
The Explorium Brewpub and City Lights Brewing Co. are among the popular destinations worth visiting.
Vennture Brew Co and 1840 Brewing offer unique brews with the latter having limited hours and being closed Mondays through Wednesdays.
Whether one is looking for an ideal session beer or a robust, full-bodied ale, visitors can find a brewery in Milwaukee to quench their thirst. Milwaukee encourages both residents and tourists to embark on brewery tours, which serve as a testament to the city's rich brewing history and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship in the art of beer-making.
Brewery visitors can also engage with local communities at these social hubs, tap into the knowledge of expert brewers during tours, and utilize apps like Untappd to track their beer-tasting journey. Milwaukee continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in brewing, remaining a must-visit destination for beer lovers.
