When it comes to major breweries in Wisconsin, there are several that have made a significant impact on the beer industry. Let's take a closer look at some of these breweries and the beers they produce.
1. Miller Brewing Company: Miller Brewing Company, now known as MillerCoors, is one of the largest breweries in the United States. Based in Milwaukee, Miller has a long history dating back to 1855. They are known for iconic brands such as Miller Lite, Miller High Life, and Milwaukee's Best. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the craftsmanship and consistency that Miller brings to their beers.
2. Pabst Brewing Company: Another Milwaukee-based brewery with a rich history is the Pabst Brewing Company. Established in 1844, Pabst is known for its flagship beer, Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR). Pabst also produces other popular brands like Old Milwaukee and Schlitz. These beers have a nostalgic appeal and are enjoyed by many beer enthusiasts.
3. Lakefront Brewery: Lakefront Brewery, located in Milwaukee, is a prominent craft brewery in Wisconsin. As a sommelier, I am always excited to explore the diverse range of beers they produce. Some of their popular offerings include the Riverwest Stein Amber Lager, Eastside Dark Munich Dunkel, and the Fuel Cafe Coffee Stout. Lakefront Brewery is also famous for its unique brewery tours, which offer an interactive and educational experience.
4. New Glarus Brewing Company: Nestled in the hills of New Glarus, Wisconsin, this brewery is known for its commitment to brewing traditional European-style beers. Their flagship beer, Spotted Cow, is a farmhouse ale loved by locals and visitors alike. As a brewer, I admire New Glarus for their dedication to using locally sourced ingredients and their focus on quality over quantity.
5. Central Waters Brewing Company: Located in Amherst, Central Waters Brewing Company has gained recognition for its exceptional barrel-aged beers. Their Bourbon Barrel Stout, Brewer's Reserve Bourbon Barrel Barleywine, and Peruvian Morning Imperial Stout are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts. I appreciate the complexity and depth of flavors that Central Waters brings to their beers through the aging process.
6. Ale Asylum: Based in Madison, Ale Asylum is known for its bold and flavorful beers. Their flagship beer, Hopalicious, is a hop-forward American Pale Ale that showcases their commitment to quality ingredients. Ale Asylum also produces a wide range of other styles, including stouts, IPAs, and lagers. As a sommelier, I appreciate their focus on balance and innovation in their beer offerings.
These are just a few examples of the major breweries in Wisconsin. Each brewery brings its own unique style and flavor profile to the table, making Wisconsin a vibrant and diverse beer destination. As a sommelier and brewer, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beers produced by these breweries, and I encourage others to do the same. Cheers!