Some of the newest beers that are about to hit the tap lines of Madison breweries have familiar styles.
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![]() This Weeks Articles for 5/27/2022 ...
Wisconsin Craft
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![]() MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A distillery in downtown Milwaukee is pranking drivers, with a purpose. If you park near Central Standard Distillery on West Clybourn Friday afternoon and find a ticket on your windshield, you may want to look twice. The tickets are a prank with a purpose... ...While this may be a joke, the prank does have a purpose. For every ticket redeemed during a happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Friday, April 1 at Central Standard, a $2 donation will be made to World Central Kitchen. It`s a charity feeding women and children fleeing the war in Ukraine... Ken Notes: Ticket ME!!! What a great idea... I hope they do this again! If we can help promote your Ukraine fund raiser drop us a note: WisCraftNews@gmail.com! ![]() |
![]() Paul Verdu, the former leader of Molson Coors’ craft beer division, has been appointed president of Wisconsin Brewing Company, the Verona, Wisconsin-based brewery announced today. Verdu will take over for Wisconsin Brewing president and CEO Carl Nolen, who will stay with the company “in a leadership role” and will remain a member of the brewery’s board of directors, according to a press release... ...more Ken Notes: My apologies are the articles are behind paywalls. Welcome Paul Thanks for all the fish... Obscure reference to Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. We need an affordable craft product to compete with Miller Light and Bud Light if you are looking for a home run in your first at bat.... ![]() |
![]() Indulging in a cocktail, whether at brunch with friends, on a fancy date, or even to unwind after a long day, is one of many ways we can treat ourselves to something special. The artful science of mixology has been deeply embedded into cultures around the globe, particularly when it comes to celebrating regional cuisines and experimenting with both new and familiar flavors. There exists a vast variety of sippers for just about any occasion imaginable, each with a unique recipe and history... See Also: ...more Ken Notes: This is a great idea for distilleries, but do not forget the aspect of getting together with friends at the local watering hole. We need to develop some bottom shelf Wisconsin craft liquors so our local taverns and restaurants are mixing with Wisconsin Craft product. Just a thought... ![]() |
![]() As Milwaukee Brewers fans file into American Family Field on Thursday, they might notice a few new additions to the ballpark. First for the adults, there’s the Cream City Cocktail bar located on the Loge Level near the right field foul pole. While the Brewers and Milwaukee are known for beer, the cocktail bar features drinks with local spirits, such as a Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned and the Sidecar, each made with Central Standard Craft Distillery brandy. Other offerings include a Dark n’ Stormy made with Twisted Path Distillery white rum, a Mai Tai made with Doundrins Distilling white rum, and the Southside Cocktail made with Rehorst Gin from Great Lakes Distillery.... SEE ALSO: ...more Ken Notes: A brilliant idea! I can not wait th check out a game... Local craft should become the norm of cocktails in Wisconsin. ![]() |
![]() WAUWATOSA, Wis. — Cy Young Award-winning pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, Corbin Burnes, surprised fans at Leff`s Lucky Town of Wauwatosa on Wednesday. Burnes covered the tab for the evening at the first-ever Brewers Eve Bash. Hundreds of Brewers fans joined the rally-style event ahead of the 2022 Home Opener game. Bernie Brewer and the Famous Racing Sausages were also in attendance... ...moreKen Notes: Corbin Burnes is the WisconsinCraftNews.com person of the week. ![]() |
![]() The beer is made with raw honey, according to Phil Hoechst, owner of Hop Haus. A portion of the sales from the beer will help support the Clean Lakes Alliance and the Henry Vilas Zoo.... ...more ![]() |
![]() Ty Maiden of Wisconsin Brewing Company said the Verona-based craft brewery decided to invest in the Lake Country DockHounds stadium — called Wisconsin Brewing Company Park — and decided to use the park as a testing ground for new beers. Dogs and suds: Dockhounds have their own beer, on-site brewery - 2 Photo provided by the Lake County DockHounds That includes Walk-Off, a light-tasting lager that Maiden said is an ideal summer baseball drink. It will be brewed in one of the stadium’s five in-house barrels and is aiming to become the team’s signature sip. “We didn’t want something heavy,” Maiden said. “It’s something absolutely perfect for a 90-degree day watching baseball, that ballpark experience.”... Ken Notes: Brilliant! ![]() |
![]() A decade ago, Grant Pauly and his 3 Sheeps Brewing began making beer in the basement of an old sock factory in Sheboygan – without a dedicated taproom to serve it in. This week, he and his team will celebrate its 10th anniversary as an integral part of the Wisconsin brewing scene. Pauly’s first brewhouse was in a spot adjacent to Hops Haven Brew Haus, a building on 14th Street in Sheboygan where Wigwam once made socks. Two of his first beers – Waterslides IPA (then called Really Cool Waterslides) and Rebel Kent Amber (formerly Rebel Kent the First) – are still a big part of the lineup. “It was a great way to get going,” Pauly says. “We just kind of focused on brewing 10-barrel batches over and over, trying things and seeing what kind of brewery we wanted to be when we grew up. We did kegs only for the first year and a half before we started bottling.” The brewery is releasing two more barrel-aged beers to mark its 10-year anniversary. Once More Around the Sun is an imperial stout finished in 12-year Elijah Craig barrels. Double Digits is a bourbon barrel-aged stout made with vanilla from Uganda and cocoa nibs from Ghana. Both are available for presale and can be picked up at 3 Sheeps’ anniversary party this Saturday... ...more Ken Notes: Congrats! And one of my favorite beers is Cashmere Hammer so I hope they are good for another ten+!!! ![]() |
![]() There are more than a million reasons to support Brat Fest!Since 1983, the World’s Largest Brat Fest has sold more than 4 million brats to help raise almost $2 million to benefit 100+ local charities. Brat Fest brings the community together each Memorial Day weekend—rain or shine—for 3 days of free music, fantastic food and family-friendly fun to help kick off the start of summer in the heart of downtown Madison, Wisconsin. Brat Fest is a volunteer-run nonprofit event that provides an opportunity to be part of something larger than yourself, something that has evolved into a yearly tradition of honoring Wisconsin history and heritage, as well as showing appreciation to community leaders who help make Madison such a great place to live. Brat Fest is much more than just a festival—it’s an opportunity to build a better community while having fun and creating cherished memories with family and friends. Your support of Brat Fest is essential in helping us help others to succeed. Come join us to celebrate the warmth of summer and the warmth of giving back to the community. ...more Ken Notes: AND they have there own craft beer!!! ![]() |
![]() In fact, Wollersheim Winery and Distillery in Prairie du Sac, which this year is marking its 50th anniversary, just released brandy old fashioned in cans. Some people will doubt you can get top-notch quality in a can. Yet the category of spirits-based canned drinks is growing, and they’re different from malt-based hard soda or seltzer. Plus, they tote easily to picnics and parties... ...more ![]() |
![]() There are a proliferating number of wineries in the area.When it comes to wine destinations, south central Wisconsin might not cross the serious global wine aficionado’s radar. The state has a reputation for sweeter varieties?—?most famously Door County’s fruit-infused bottles. But in our area, there’s an oversized cellar’s worth of high-quality wineries that offer not just an array of signature vintages for dry- or sweet-loving palates, but also unforgettably rustic and pastoral environs in which to drink them.
Ken Notes: Check out the article for locations are reviews. I see a road trip in my future! There are some great destinations here, bookmark and share this story... ![]() |
![]() “When you arrive here you get a sense of space. The farm and this land gives you a sense of being in a bigger place, but the bigger space of the 6,000 square foot building, every inch of it is used. We knew to pair food with beer is a Wisconsin tradition. We always knew the sausage and beer pairing was necessary for the success of our business,” Sommer said... See Also: ...more ![]() |
![]() Tattersall recently strengthened its Midwest footprint through partnerships with distributors in Illinois and Michigan. Restaurants, bars and liquor stores in those two states – and 23 others – will be stocked with Tattersall spirits produced in Wisconsin, not Minnesota... ...more ![]() |
![]() Octopi Brewing LLC is one seven finalists in the Medium Category with 100-249 employees, according to an announcement from the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. The MOTY program recognizes the state’s top manufacturers of all sectors and sizes for their commitment to quality careers, good business practices, financial growth, innovative processes and reinvestment into local communities... ![]() |
![]() Karben4 Brewing on Madison’s eastside was busy canning and packaging the beer last week. “Oh, it’s a clean, crisp, pilsner,” said Ross Hubbard, sales director for Ale Asylum. “It’s really good!” Brat Fest teamed up with Karben4 and two other craft breweries, Capital Brewery in Middleton and Madison’s Ale Asylum to brew a special pilsner for the event... ![]() |
![]() "tastes like soaking wonderbread in carbonated water." "look, nobody is coming to a PBR expecting to drink a life-changing beer. its a joy just to share some cheap fizzy hops drink with your buddies, making some memories." So say the crowd-sourced reviews on Beer Advocate about Pabst Blue Ribbon, a standard, pale-yellow American lager with a 4.8% alcohol by volume, but one whose colorful history stretches back some 178 years and includes being serenaded in song (Johnny Russell`s 1973 country hit "Rednecks, White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer"), and winning some best beer awards... Ken Notes: Arghhhh, we need to create and share a recipe that can win an award in this century and market it nationally. We also need to educate Americans on the value of hand crafted product... Read this article, it is a masterclass in marketing... ![]() |
![]() Located on 101 Bay Beach Road, Feld opened in 2021 after years of planning. He came to the project with decades of business experience in everything from high-level consulting to partnerships in other businesses. The most important ingredient, he said, is to be passionate about the business. That’s what he was seeking when he started to pursue his dream... Their Website is here: https://paradisenorthdistillery.com/Ken Notes: Great story! ![]() |
![]() MILWAUKEE (May 12, 2022) – On Thursday, May 5th, the World Beer Cup was held at the Craft Beer Conference in Minneapolis. In the category of gluten-free beer, Lakefront Brewery’s La Gosa Rita Margarita-Style Ale won Gold. “The World Beer Cup is known as the Olympics of beer,” said Lakefront Brewery President, Russ Klisch. “To win gold means your beer is one of the best in the world.”... see Also:
https://lakefrontbrewery.com/![]() |
![]() Located on 101 Bay Beach Road, Feld opened in 2021 after years of planning. He came to the project with decades of business experience in everything from high-level consulting to partnerships in other businesses. “Other than the hospitality industry, there isn’t any other type of business that I haven’t been part of, but prior to this, I had never had a startup business," Feld said. "What I learned through working with other owners is that if your No. 1 focus is to make money, it won’t end up well.” The most important ingredient, he said, is to be passionate about the business. That’s what he was seeking when he started to pursue his dream... ![]() |
![]() Stone’s Throw Winery has taken pride in being a supportive business in the community since 1997 and is looking forward to being able to assist the incredible hardworking staff of the WHS Door County Campus in this way... Ken Notes: Congrats! and Thank You... ![]() |
![]() Door County Memorial Weekend Live MusicWhat`s happening in Ripon this weekend?![]() |
![]() Octopi was presented with a special award for Rapid Growth. The annual Manufacturer of the Year Awards program recognizes Wisconsin companies that are dedicated to quality careers, good business practices, financial growth, innovative processes and reinvestment into local communities... ...more ![]() |
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![]() 9. Walkers Point Makers Market & Bar Hop...more ![]() |
![]() However, they couldn’t wash it down with an official Brat Fest Beer. That is, until now. To mark their fortieth anniversary, organizers revealed they teamed up with local brewers and distributors for their own branded beer... We have partnered with General Beer Distributors Madison and in collaboration with Karben4 Brewing, Ale Asylum
and Capital Brewery and Bier Garten…..we are bringing a one-of-a-kind
Brat Fest Collaboration Beer to Metcalfe`s Market Madison Locations on
May 1st with proceeds supporting the festival!... ...more ![]() |
![]() MobCraft Beer Inc., which specializes in customer-suggested brews in exotic flavors, is the new owner of the former village fire station at 122 Second St. Since 2018, village officials had been looking for a brewery operator to take over the firehouse and turn it into a beer-themed attraction along the Fox River. MobCraft Night & Day Established in 2013, MobCraft bills itself as the world’s first “crowd-sourced” brewery, meaning that the company creates new beers based on customer ideas. The result has been brews flavored like apple pie, fruity breakfast cereal, blueberry waffles and peanut butter cups... ...more ![]() |
![]() Earth Rider Brewery is distributing their line of beer to both Madison and Milwakee. Employees returned to the Twin Ports this afternoon after delivering can hours away. One of Earth Riders sale representatives, Peter Knutson told us, expansion has been on their mind for quite some time. “So one thing we know about Wisconsinites is they love great beer and we love to make it. So sharing our product further from home has always been a goal of ours. We love providing great beer and getting it to great people,” says Knutson... Ken Notes: we need to work together to market our products especially to local taverns and restaurants... ![]() |
![]() Some of the newest beers that are about to hit the tap lines of Madison breweries have familiar styles. There’s a wheat beer, American red ale, Belgian-style tripel, golden ale and a stout. Only the recipes for these brews are far from local. In March, Pravda Brewery in Lviv, Ukraine, released its beer recipes for all to see and invited brewers from around the world to make its beers to show support for its home country, invaded by Russia in February. The beers will also carry the brewery’s original labels, some bearing caustic messages about the conflict. Eleven Madison-area breweries have taken up the cause and on Sunday will serve them at the “Brew for Ukraine Brewing Festival” at Wisconsin Brewing Co. in Verona. The event, from noon to 5 p.m., will include music and food and could raise more than $20,000 with the proceeds going to Ukraine relief efforts... See Also:
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![]() Eclectic doesn’t even begin to describe this list that includes everything from big beer releases to a strongman competition. Friday, April 22 Saturday, April 23 Sunday, April 24 ![]() |
DE PERE (NBC 26) — "I definitely would have thought we`d have, we`d be open for a year by now," said Matt Walters. He and his brother had the idea to open up their own craft brewery back in 2019, Cocoon Brewing. They had planned to be open by the spring 2020, but that dream stopped dead in it`s tracks when March came around. First it was the pandemic that slowed them down, but now inflation and supply issues are causing more setbacks. Thankfully, the groundbreaking is happening in the next few weeks. Ken Notes: We need to work together also we need to think about product to compete with the global "big guys" worth 768.17 billion in 2021. I hope we can get draft with good margins into every pub in the state. I would be happy to promote this and if we can show jobs I`ll bet we can get WEDC and the legislature on board... ![]() |
![]() The Viking Octantis docked at the Port of Milwaukee May 6, marking not only the first cruise ship to visit since 2019, but also the first Viking ship and the largest cruise ship to ever dock in the city. Polka music from an accordion player greeted 307 passengers as they disembarked for various excursions around the city, from tours of local breweries to birdwatching at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center... Ken Notes: We need to get some craft products on board... ![]() |
![]() The Mish riverside venue and sister company Chipper`s Lanes Entertainment venues (830 North in Fort Collins, 2454 West in Greeley, and 100 Nickel in Broomfield) and Fieldnotes Organic Vodka and Gin are proud to announce a new partnership bringing these 4 music venues and craft distillery, La Crosse Distilling Co. together to support musicians. Wisconsin-based La Crosse Distilling Co. distributes their organic spirits throughout the state of Colorado including their flagship brands Fieldnotes Vodka, Fieldnotes Gin, Downtown Toodeloo Rock and Rye, Robber`s Straight Rye Whiskey and more... ![]() |
![]() From elephants to aliens, this weekend is jam-packed with outstanding events.3. Uncooped Block Party & Bottle ReleaseFRIDAY FROM 6-10 P.M. | GREAT LAKES DISTILLERY Great Lakes Distillery is hosting a block party to celebrate the release of its Chicken Shack Straight Rye Whiskey. 10. Saws & SudsSATURDAY AT NOON | BLACK HUSKY BREWING 13. Brew City Birding Festival
15. Wine and Wag Around the WardSee Also:
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![]() These beer-forward businesses will gladly welcome your fur baby into their dog-friendly spaces.These beer-forward businesses will gladly welcome your fur baby into their dog-friendly spaces. The Boneyard
O’so Brewing Co.’s Madhouse
Capital Brewery
Wisconsin Brewing Co.
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![]() Last year alone, those craft brewers produced nearly 25 million barrels of beer, according to a new report from the Brewers Association, the trade association that represents small and independent craft brewers in the U.S... Below are the other top-selling craft breweries, courtesy of the Brewers Association:
Ken Notes: We could dominate this list with a little co-op marketing. I look a Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (the former Milk marketing Board) for a perfect example of how to get this done. ![]() |
![]() First, Badger State Brewing`s BRW-SKI cracked the craft beers lineup at American Family Field. Now, the rest of Milwaukee gets a crack at the Green Bay brewery`s beer lineup. Same for Madison. And La Crosse. Andrew Fabry, president and co-founder of Badger State Brewing, said the brewery was doing some self distribution in those markets for the past year, mostly at independent liquor stores, restaurants and bars. Working with wholesalers will expand the company`s reach, he said... ![]() |
The Badger State`s charming small towns, thriving farm-to-table movement and rich brewing heritage guarantee quality vacations for all types of travelers.America`s Dairy State may not be on everyone`s vacation radar, but the state boasts pristine state parks, iconic architecture and rich culinary traditions supplemented by craft beer and farm-to-table experiences. Also, of course, its residents are famous for their Midwestern hospitability. America`s Dairyland is well worth the trip for weekend getaways or week-long vacations. It`s no exaggeration to claim Wisconsin offers something for every type of traveler – world-class art for culture enthusiasts, metropolitan food tours for foodies, numerous waterparks for families and relaxing scenery for outdoors lovers, including rolling hills, lush farmland, forests and lakes. Read on to explore the top things to do in Wisconsin... Ken Notes: A great list invite your out of state friends in for a visit and buy the first round or two... ![]() |
Milwaukee Tonight focuses on the people, places, and events that make the community special. From artists to architecture, food to festivals, neighborhoods to nightlife - this show is a nightly reminder that our city is filled with stories to be proud of. Watch weekdays at 6:30 p.m. on TMJ4... SEE ALSO:
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![]() Local effort raises $30,000 for war reliefA crowd of more than 1,000 showed up at Wisconsin Brewing Company in Verona on Sunday to drink Ukrainian beer in a fundraiser for the war-torn country. More than 1,000 craft beer enthusiasts filled Wisconsin Brewing Company’s beer garden on April 24 to support Ukraine in the war with Russia. The beer festival raised $30,000 in relief funds for Ukraine, with more donations expected. The fest featured five beers based on Ukrainian recipes made by Madison breweries with recipes from the Pravda brewery in Lviv, Ukraine, in a worldwide project called “Brew for Ukraine.” Ken Notes: Some of the mega brewers are jumping on this as a marketing ploy. Thumbs up to Wisconsin Brewing and Madison area brewers for actually doing this for the right reasons... ![]() |
![]() ...more Ken Notes: It is a pretty cool place. ![]() |
![]() The history of brewing in Wisconsin is predominantly white-centered. But, in the late 1960s two Black men left their mark on the state’s brewing industry. Edward McClellan created a Black-owned beer brand, and contracted with a company in West Bend to brew their beer. Ted Mack, along with his business associates from the United Black Enterprises, purchased and ran the first Black-owned brewery in Wisconsin... ![]() |
![]() A five-hour event on Sunday, April 24 featuring five Ukrainian beer recipes was a huge success, Wisconsin Brewing Company bar and events manager Sara Eustice told the Press. Because there were five other breweries involved, it took a couple weeks to figure out how much money was raised, but Eustice has now confirmed that $31,000 was raised, which has gone to Pravda Brewery, located in the city of Lviv, Ukraine... See Also: ...more ![]() |
![]() WiscCrantNews is developing a list of event calendars from across the state that feature Breweries Wineries of Distilleries and their related events. We will make this a permanent part of WisCraftNews so you can always find what going on in real time... Ken Notes: By the way we recommend adding your event to eventbrite... ![]() |
![]() Tattersall will have to ramp up its Wisconsin production once again as it continues to expand its reach across the Midwest.Minneapolis-based Tattersall Distilling’s libations will now appear in more stores across Michigan and Illinois thanks to new partnerships with a pair of out-of-state distributors. Tattersall will enter the Michigan market for the first time through a new partnership with the distributor Imperial Beverage, the company announced this week. It has also entered a new partnership with Illinois distributor Romano Beverage, which will expand its existing distribution within Illinois. Tattersall said the news won’t change anything about the distillery’s Minnesota operations... See Also: Ken Notes: It would not take much for Wisconsin to become a Distilling and Brewing mecca. ![]() |
![]() Lakefront Brewery is planning a series of upgrades on its Riverwalk beer garden in time for next summer. The changes include an outdoor overlook at the dining room level, opening up the stairs to the lower Riverwalk, permanent restrooms for beer garden guests, more outdoor coverings, and a more functional outdoor bar. The city Plan Commission on Monday approved the improvements. Lakefront hopes to begin the upgrades after Labor Day weekend. "One
thing last year was I could tell how much people like the area that we
created outside," said Lakefront Brewery President Russ
Klisch. "It`s very popular, and we`re looking to upgrade it." ... ![]() |
![]() Milwaukee Day is Thursday, and so is the home opener for the Brewers. Throw in a few beer events, and it’s busy week in Brew City... Friday, April 15 Saturday, April 16 Head to 1840 Brewing and join them and Eagle Park Brewing for the Joint IPA Street Party. From noon to 8 p.m. they’ll be pouring two versions of Joint IPA (one from 1840 and one from Eagle Park). Live music starts at, ahem, 4:20 p.m. and Riley’s Good Dogs is there to take care of the munchies. ![]() |
![]() Here’s your next excuse to visit the southern shores of Lake Superior: serenityLast summer, the Federal Highway Administration minted
49 new National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads—its first such
designation in more than a decade. One of the chosen thoroughfares was
the Lake Superior Scenic Byway in Wisconsin, a 70-mile stretch running
from Port Wing to Washburn in bucolic Bayfield County. A lakeside
agrarian paradise with fewer than 15,000 residents, Bayfield also
happens to be the gateway to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and home
to Wild Rice Retreat, a beautiful new wellness sanctuary hugging Lake
Superior. One of the first stops on our three-day road trip to the South Shore was Copper Crow, the country’s first Native American-owned distillery. The spirits here are made with provincial ingredients; the gin and vodka, for instance, are produced with whey, a byproduct of Wisconsin cheesemakers... Ken Notes: Well worth the trip! ![]() |
![]() "Our calendar is really pretty full and has been filling up," said Lynn Forbes-Kearns, the president of Mosinee Brewing Company. However, that does not mean everyone is thriving. "There is something here that is exasperating the problem and that is the oversaturation of breweries in Wisconsin," said Michael Zamzow, co-owner of Bull Falls Brewery in Wausau. Travel Wisconsin says there are more than 200 breweries in the state. Once you factor in the factor in the pandemic, those businesses have to fight for resources, creating high costs for everyone... ![]() |
![]() The Brewhouse will open June 18 with beer, brats and live German music to celebrate. Free koozies will be handed out while supplies last. The Brewhouse grand opening will celebrate Wisconsin beer history from corner bars to the big label and microbrews that have been made in this state. Brewers will make authentic historic recipes out of kettles, and guests over 21 can enjoy samples of beer produced in the brewhouse. Koozies will be handed out at 11 a.m. June 18, with the keg tapping at 11:20 a.m. From 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beer and brats will be for sale while live German music plays.... Ken Notes: Check out the photos!!! ![]() |
![]() A fruity new hop that tastes like the citrus fruit bergamot is entrancing beermakersThere is a lot of talk in the local craft beer world about bergamot. Not to be confused with Monarda fistulosa, the wild mint plant often seen locally, this is Citrus bergamia, a fruit often found in Italy. The orange accent has been turning up in everything from IPAs to saisons. “Bergamot is one of those beautiful aromas, and after a first smell you just can’t stop smelling it. It’s sweeter than [other] citrus, with more layers,” says Alex Wenzel of Lion’s Tail Brewing in Neenah, who used it to make a spring saison. Bergamot can be added to beer like orange zest (fresh or dried peel); however, much of the excitement is about a new hop varietal, also called Bergamot, that lends an intense orange aroma and flavor. Those hops blend very well with juicy-tropical IPAs like a new release from Vintage Brewing simply called Bergamot IPA. It’s part of Vintage’s Hop S’Mitten series of single-hop beers ($6.50/glass, $10.50/crowler) and features assertive orange character.... ![]() |
![]() This classic cocktail comes in `sweet` or `sour` versionsTo most of the cocktail-drinking universe, the recipe for an Old-Fashioned is the distillation of simplicity: bourbon or rye, sugar syrup, a dash of bitters and an orange peel for a garnish. It’s a drink formula that has held up for more than 200 years – except in Wisconsin. At some point around the turn of the last century, the local Sconnies decided to blend up a unique take on the Old-Fashioned, substituting brandy for bourbon and adding carbonated soda and a fruit mash to create a sweeter drink to appeal to immigrants from brandy- and schnapps-loving countries like Germany and Poland... Ken Notes: Not news to us but nice to see the National attention, and Central Standard got a nice plug and image... ![]() |
![]() On Wednesday, VISIT Milwaukee announced the launch of this new, free pass. So what exactly does it do? It gives deals on cheese curds at 19 — and soon to be more — area bars, restaurants and shops. People can sign up for the pass, which is built for mobile devices, at visitmilwaukee.org/cheesepass. The passport will be delivered via text and email, and can be saved to a phone`s home screen, according to the website.... Ken Notes: I would love to do a Wisconsin Craft Passport if there is any interest... Maybe a one time two for one so they have to bring a friend! ![]() |
![]() This year`s program, in its 25th year, has 25 awards. They will be presented at a 5 p.m. May 18 ceremony at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning, 2131 E. Hartford Ave. The honorees are divided into four categories: Spaces and Places, Test of Time, Neighborhood Renaissance and Vibrant Connections...
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![]() “After an extremely successful event in 2019, which raised nearly $30,000 for the YMCA’s annual campaign, the pandemic caused the [event’s cancellation] in 2020 and 2021,” said Alyssa Dantoin, the Door County YMCA’s annual giving director. The event assists more than 1,200 YMCA members with their fees... ...Wine provided by Twelve Eleven Wine and Provisions in Sister Bay, a featured beer from One Barrel Brewing in Egg Harbor, and craft cocktails from Hatch Distillery in Egg Harbor will also be highlights this year, along with a live auction... ![]() |
![]() Sat, May 21, 2022 at 9:00 AM This is a Rummage Sale centered on all kinds of advertising particularly Beer and Brewery items. The Badger Bunch is celebrating their 50th anniversary and we are having our annual Beer Rummage Picnic in Waukesha... ...more![]() |
![]() The 20th annual conference, to be held at the Italian Community Center on June 1-2, returns in-person to the Cream City to celebrate the region’s rise as a startup and scale-up hub. Registration is open at witrepsconference.com... ...more Ken Notes: If you are starting out this conference is a must. ![]() |
![]() The line-up
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If Green Bay Packers is your first thought when someone says "Green Bay", you’re not alone. Nor is that a misguided thought. After all, ever since Earl “Curly” Lambeau and George Whitney Calhoun founded the Packer organization in 1919, the team has been an integral part of the city. ... ...So yes, Green Bay is all about football. But this blue-collar town – with its history of iron smelting, lumber milling, and paper product production – is also a perfectly satisfying spot for a weekend getaway that has as much – or as little – to do with football as you like... ...more ![]() |
![]() The pandemic and international conflict have wreaked havoc with supply chains around the world – Octopi Brewing is adjusting to these increasingly uncertain business conditions, trying to keep raw materials flowing and machinery running as interest in its canned beverages grows. Wisconsin manufacturers are continuing to be challenged by supply chain dysfunctions amid a sustained rise in materials and labor costs — a pattern that began with the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued into 2022... Showaki opened Octopi in 2014 expecting some of the typical challenges
that come with starting a business. He never imagined the dizzying
disruptions that accompany a long, deadly pandemic.
The trouble began in March 2020, when the spread of COVID-19 prompted public health restrictions and consumer actions that ground public life and various sectors of the economy to a halt. "When it hit in March, all of a sudden, over 48 hours, about 60% of our orders got canceled," Showaki said.. ![]() |
![]() “When we first started serving the cocktails in our Crafthouse & Kitchen last summer, they became top sellers,” says Evan Hughes, who cofounded the distillery with Pat McQuillan.... ...more Ken Notes: Old News, National attention!!! ![]() |
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![]() The brewery was founded in 1985 by Randy Sprecher. The new root beer labels pay homage to the original Walker`s Point location of Sprecher Brewery, including the iconic smoke-stack over the city. CBS 58 spoke with Tim Cigelske, Director of Communications at Sprecher Brewing Co. about the new effort to honor Milwaukee Day. Cigelske hopes the new labels provide a taste of Milwaukee`s history. "We have 414 root beer this week in honor of Milwaukee Day on Thursday, April 14.".. ...more Notes: ![]() |
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Now, the couple, which has copious experience in the hospitality industry is working to open The Copper Turtle Brewery & Taverne in the 3,200-square-foot former Bavette La Boucherie space at 330 E. Menomonee St. in the Third Ward by summer. As Ben and Amanda work to open the Milwaukee brewery – which they hope will be doing business by July or August – we caught up with Ben Rossi, who has 24 years of experience behind him – including operating a brewery in Illinois – to ask him about their plans.... ...more![]() |
![]() Wisconsin was made for road trips. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Wisconsin experience focused on visiting the best craft breweries and farm fresh cheese stands or you’re looking to spend time hiking, biking and wildlife watching, the Badger State won’t disappoint.Kenosha-Madison; 115 miles (185km) ...moreWisconsin is known for two things: good beer and great cheese. And while you can find both pretty much anywhere in the state, you’ll find the most options along this route, which could be modified as a long day trip or stretched out to a weekend road trip. Start out in Kenosha and visit the gigantic Mars Cheese Castle (conveniently located right on the highway) and the Kenosha Brewing Company, which is located at the site of the first post-Prohibition brew pub in the Midwest... ![]() |
![]() There are more than a million reasons to support Brat Fest!Since 1983, the World’s Largest Brat Fest has sold more than 4 million brats to help raise almost $2 million to benefit 100+ local charities. Brat Fest brings the community together each Memorial Day weekend—rain or shine—for 3 days of free music, fantastic food and family-friendly fun to help kick off the start of summer in the heart of downtown Madison, Wisconsin. Brat Fest is a volunteer-run nonprofit event that provides an opportunity to be part of something larger than yourself, something that has evolved into a yearly tradition of honoring Wisconsin history and heritage, as well as showing appreciation to community leaders who help make Madison such a great place to live... ...more ![]() |
![]() Cinco de Mayo events include a dance party workshop, restaurant deals, beer gardens and brewery launches.WAUKESHA, WI — While Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico`s military victory over the French empire in 1862, it`s also a good excuse to visit a local restaurant for authentic eats and to sample a margarita. Because it`s May in Wisconsin, it also means people can visit beer gardens and breweries as they open too. Patch has put together a list of local restaurants and breweries that are offering parties, beer launches and meal specials. Here are some places to try on Thursday... ![]() |
![]() Saturday, June 11, 2022 | 11am – 5pmJoin us on June 11th for Wollersheim’s 50th Anniversary Celebration!Come and see where Wisconsin wine and spirits are made. Grab a brat from the Bistro outdoor grill and enjoy cocktails or wine by the glass while listening to live music from local bands, at either the winery or distillery. Tickets are NOT required for this event... ![]() |
![]() Bailey’s Run Vineyard is in the middle of a massive expansion project as they prepare to host a 5k for charity this weekendNEW GLARUS, Wis. (WMTV) - A winery in New Glarus is playing host to a charity event on Saturday and the cause is very near and dear to the owners’ hearts. “Both my husband and I both have Alzheimer’s and dementia running through our families so it’s a very important cause for us,” said Janet Kuehl, co-owner of Bailey’s Run Vineyard. The winery is hosting the 4th annual “Remember Me Red Run” 5k on Saturday. Proceeds from the event go to the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin (ADAW)... ...If you’d like to sign up for the 5k, check out their registration page.
You can also show up and sign up on race day. The race starts at 10
a.m. on Saturday, May 7. The race will start and finish at the winery.
After the race, there will be live music and plenty of fun! ...more![]() |
While the tasting room at Great Northern Distilling in Plover, near Stevens Point, has been dark for more than a year, the stillhouse has been anything but quiet, as the nearly 10-year-old distillery stocks up in preparation for a big move... ...Cummins hopes to be in a newly constructed home on the north end of downtown Stevens Point by autumn...
Ken Notes: Another great story and the project sounds impressive. ![]() |
Bay View`s 1840 Brewing Company is opening a taproom in downtown West Bend that will have some expanded features.Bay View`s 1840 Brewing Company will open a new taproom in downtown West Bend mixed-use development called The District at Washington and Main Streets. ...moreThe 6,400-square-foot taproom is expected to open in the 177-unit luxury apartment complex by the end of the year. The District should be entirely complete by next spring... ![]() |
![]() The Brewers Association developed the World Beer Cup Competition in 1996 to celebrate the art and science of brewing. Often referred to as “The Olympics of Beer Competitions,” the World Beer Cup says it is the most prestigious beer competition in the world. It is held every two years at different locations... ![]() |
![]() The microdistiller not only sources grains, fruit and materials from local suppliers — it repurposes as many byproducts of the distilling process as possible, in what’s likely one of the most scalable examples of circularity so far in the spirits business.While the Upper Midwestern US might not be the first region that comes to mind for sustainable distilling, the work Tattersall Distilling is doing should put it near the top of the list.... ...Tattersall operates two locations: a healthy bar & distillery in central Minneapolis; and a brand new, 75,000 sq. ft. flagship facility in River Falls, WI, about 45 minutes east of the Twin Cities. The River Falls facility — which boasts the largest rooftop solar array of any craft distiller in the US — offers the opportunity for the company to scale up production (which currently sits around 300K-500K bottles, according to Kreidler) and continue leveraging the company’s deep connections with grain providers in both states. ...more ![]() |
![]() TOWN OF NORWAY — Anyone who enjoys wine knows that there are plenty of places in Racine County that sell it. But there’s only one place in the county that grows its own grapes, ferments its own creations, and bottles and ships nearly a hundred different wines. That place is Spirits of Norway Vineyard, located at 22200 W. Six Mile Road, just east of Wind Lake. ![]() |
Fox Cities, WisconsinMickala Brown, who works with the Fox Cities Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, offered these details for a cheap getaway to the Fox Cities, which she said is a destination in the heart of Wisconsin that’s under a five-hour drive from all Midwest hubs and about three hours from Chicago. Free activities include:
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Amorphic Beer has not one, but two patios, each with its own vibe and style. Now is the perfect time to compare and contrast them as the Riverwest Brewery is about to launch it`s a first collab brew, an unusual IPA created with a Brazilian brewer.When Amorphic Beer
opened at 3700 N. Fratney St. in Riverwest in early December, it was
still a little too cold to think about a patio, but that’s all changed
now and the science-inspired craft brewery and taproom now has picnic
tables, Adirondack chairs and flowers out front. But for a completely different outdoor experience, walk through the taproom and out back to the beer alley, a long narrow space adorned with objects from the apparently vast and varied collection of the building’s owner, and offering a mix of sun and shade..
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![]() Bare Bones Brewery in Oshkosh is joining other breweries worldwide, making Ukrainian style beer... ...more![]() |
![]() It`s the Greatest of All Time(s)…of year for the spring seasonal. Plus a roundup of other noteworthy beers around town.April is the height of maibock availability. Among those I’ve been enjoying most this year is Wisconsin Brewing Company’s GOAT,
a solid example of the traditional German maibock, a style that is all
about the subtleties of malt. GOAT is a dark golden lager, soft, smooth
and easy drinking, with an inviting sweetness from Vienna and Pilsner
malts. There is also the herbal accent of Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops.
Brewmaster Kirby Nelson is well known for his German lagers. GOAT has
actually evolved over the past few years, emerging from the brewery’s
previous maibocks including Betrayal Ale and Big Sweet Life. Ken Notes: What a great read and many more great beers at the link. Enjoy! ![]() |
![]() MILWAUKEE (April 14, 2022) – While the weather would disagree, summer has made it to Milwaukee in the form of a fruity & refreshing tropical ale. Tropical Nimbus is cousin to last summer’s Raspberry Nimbus, except with pineapple, orange, and guava flavors. Tropical Nimbus sports a soft, wheat haze and a 4.8% alcohol by volume. “After a few different test batches, the brewers really dialed in the fruit,” said Lakefront’s Director of Business Development, Chris Johnson. “It’s a beautiful summer liquid.”... ...more Ken Notes: Send us your summer releases! ![]() |
![]() Public beer gardens are all the rage. Our list doesn’t include some great outdoor drinking spaces at breweries and bars like the massive outdoor area at Third Space, Gathering Place’s Vienna Avenue Biergarten, the rooftop at Cafe Benelux or the Zen experience at The Baree. There are far too many outdoor drinking options to list here, and that’s a good thing... ![]() |
![]() Brat Stop Located at 12304 75th St, Kenosha, WI 53142Saturday, April 30, 2022 (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)The Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival is a fundraiser that was created to benefit Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha. This fun-filled event features a variety of Wisconsin cheeses, some of the most sought after beers from Wisconsin and beyond as well as great live music. This is a “don’t miss event” for anybody who likes beer, cheese, and music! Located at the historic Brat Stop.
All proceeds help support Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha after-school
programs for at-risk youth of our community. All VIP ticket proceeds
will go toward expanding attendance at the Youth and Teen Center at the
Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha!.. ![]() |
![]() "I probably looked like a little brewery representative," Torzala laughed. With brewing in his blood, Torzala dreamed of opening his own brewery for decades. "I`ve been chasing this dream for probably 20-plus years," he said. His dream will become a reality in June, when he and his wife, Tricia, open Torzala Brewing Co. on the second floor of the Lincoln Warehouse, 2018 S. First St., in Bay View... ![]() |
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![]() A gem of the Great Lakes region, Wisconsin has something for every visitor.Milwaukee provides the festivals, nightlife and big-city entertainment urban-loving travelers crave, while foodies flock to uber-diverse (and ultra-bikeable) capital city, Madison. Couples and solo travelers have their pick of charming small towns around the state, while families will find plenty of playgrounds and water parks to keep little ones satisfied. Beautiful beaches cover much of the extensive coast along two Great Lakes, while fabulous foliage viewing and countless other outdoorsy opportunities await in every corner of the state. Here are eight unmissable places to visit in Wisconsin... ![]() |
![]() Jerry Janiszewski is an Old World Wisconsin volunteer brewer and also a member of the museum`s brewing experience committee. He shares more about the life and legacy of Joseph Schlitz. Janiszewski starts, "It`s incredible to examine his life because he only lived for 43 years and he was born in Mainz, which back then was called the Kingdom of Prussia. He was born in 1831 and he set foot in New York on June 15 of 1849 and made his way to Milwaukee." ... ![]() |
![]() The water parks are probably what first drew you to the Dells, and they’re worth a visit on a hot summer (or cold winter) day — especially this year, with new attractions like a rotating water slide at Mount Olympus, a tube ride with multicolored lights at Chula Vista, and two dueling waterslides at the renovated Wild West Waterpark at the Wilderness. But water parks are not the only things worth visiting in the area, and they’re not what first brought visitors more than a century ago. The area’s natural water attractions are to thank for that... Ken Notes: Both breweries and wineries made the list, and I would toss in Driftless Glen Distillery is worth the trip as well... ![]() |
![]() Join PBS Wisconsin for an all new Around the Farm Table as host Inga Witscher learns about Kernza, a new perennial grain being used in brewing, baking and as a forage crop for livestock. The all-new episode premieres Thursday, May 5 at 7 p.m. on PBS Wisconsin. You can also stream the episode online on at pbswisconsin.org... ![]() |
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![]() Friday Joey Halbur — 5-9 p.m., Geneva Lake Distilling + Studio Winery, 401 E. Sheridan Springs Road, Lake Geneva. Jeff Trudell — 5-8 p.m., Topsy Turvy Brewery, 727 Geneva St., Lake Geneva. Ken Notes: Dozens more at the link! ![]() |
![]() Great minds think alike — especially the ones that created MobCraft Beer and Dee Tacko. With creative ideas and entrepreneurial mindsets, this partnership is one of the best that could form for Denverites. By looking to support the public intentionally, these two businesses are now merging to create a restaurant like no other. Henry Schwartz, founder of MobCraft Beer, finds inspiration from the public eye and has mirrored this idea throughout his entrepreneurial journey. Born in Lakewood, Schwartz began his own skateboard business during his ripe middle school years. He continued on this path, opened his own skateboard store and learned what it really takes to run a business.. ...moreKen Notes: MobCraft continues to innovate... ![]() |
![]() Door County Cherry Vodka Expands Retail ReachCentral Standard Distillery has announced that Kroger stores will now sell its Door County Cherry Vodka in 110 locations throughout the state.The Milwaukee-based distillery infuses its award-winning vodka with juice from Door County cherry farms – 15 pounds of fresh Door County cherries, in fact, go into every batch. “Simply put, our Door County Cherry Vodka is the ultimate taste of Wisconsin,” co-founder Pat McQuillan said... ![]() |
![]() ...more Ken Notes: Story blocked but great photos at the link... ![]() |
![]() The annual awards honor Milwaukee projects that contribute to the character of their surroundings, add value to their neighborhoods and contribute to the urban fabric...
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![]() The Wisconsin Brewing Company Head Brewer is responsible for the supervision of brewing personnel and all processes and activities involved in brewing and blending of alcohol and non-alcohol products to meet the needs of beer for distribution and products required for co-pack operations. This critical role will combine actual hands--on brewing with guiding a team of skilled brewery personnel...
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![]() From Mega LEGO displays, to earth day cleanup and Milwaukee Bucks
watch parties, there is a lot to do in and around Milwaukee this
weekend. With temperatures expected to be in the 70s on Saturday, being outside and enjoying a park or a beer garden might be the way to go!... ![]() |
According to Eat This Not That, the best spot to buy a beer in Wisconsin is at Lakefront Brewery in Milwaukee. Lakefront Brewery gained popularity for creating a series where brewery employees brew their favorite kind of beer and serve it to customers. They also offer gluten-free brews! Here is what Eat This Not That had to say about the best spot to buy a beer in Wisconsin: ![]() |
![]() However. The inferiority complex that some have to their neighbors to the south borders on concerning at times... ...more Ken Notes: We actually love Chicagoians, they come, they spend and they go home. I think we should make a Cubbie Old Fashioned, Wisconsin Brandy, Extra Bitters, and the cherry is available in 1908, 2016, and 2124... Of course Wisconsin is still building our cocktails... ![]() |
![]() When you’re enjoying a night out at Trader’s Island, you don’t have to go home and you can indeed stay here. This unique business not only operates a lively a bar & grill, it also has a nearby campground. It’s a winning combination that’s perfect for anyone who loves a good time and the great outdoors. Here’s what you need to know about Trader’s Bar & Grill in Wisconsin and Trader’s Island Campground. ...moreKen Notes: This is such a great idea for expanding your presence and customer base. From free overnight parking in you lot to a full blown campground and everything in between tourism and craft just go together... ![]() |
![]() Easter time returns with plenty of events to celebrate the holiday in the Lake Geneva area. Here is a list of area Easter egg hunts and Easter brunches....
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![]() MILWAUKEE — When you think about a brewing company, cannabis reform may not come to mind. Indeed Brewing Company partnered with the Last Prisoner Project to raise money to go toward its mission on Wednesday. Indeed We Can is an initiative by Indeed Brewing Company and focuses on raising money for local or national non-profits. ...more![]() |
![]() “This is an extraordinary place,” Evers said at the conclusion of his tour Friday afternoon. “I’m impressed how they persevered through the pandemic, how they’ve survived and thrived.” Evers, joined by an entourage of 50 people including several secretaries of state agencies, spent more than an hour at the brewery, learning not just about the beer-making process, but how the brewery revitalized its 100-year-old building and became a tourism draw. ...more ![]() |
This position will be responsible for the following state: Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin.The Sales Representative position is a key resource within the Country Malt Group Sales team providing sales services to breweries, distilleries, homebrew stores, wineries, and other specialty stores and manufactures. Sales Representative will be the primary account owner for an assigned territory, and work closely with the Sales Managers & Customer Solutions Team to support sales functions within the small craft segment. SR`s are the main point of contact maintaining an exceptional level of service for our new & existing customers as we continue to grow our market share and increase profitability. This position will report to the Sales Representative Manager. Ideal Candidate would be located in Oregon... ...more ![]() |
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