Stillwater, Minnesota is a hidden gem for beer and wine enthusiasts alike. With its historic charm and picturesque scenery, it's no wonder that Stillwater is home to a thriving craft beverage scene. In fact, Stillwater is ranked as one of the Best U.S. Beer Cities, so you can expect to find a variety of breweries and taprooms to explore.
Currently, there are two breweries located in Stillwater: Lift Bridge Brewery and Maple Island Brewing Company. Both of these breweries offer unique and flavorful craft beers that showcase the creativity and passion of the local brewers. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, you're sure to find a beer that suits your taste buds in Stillwater.
Lift Bridge Brewery, located just a short distance from downtown Stillwater, has become a staple in the local beer scene. They are known for their flagship beer, the Farm Girl Saison, which is a refreshing and fruity beer that pairs perfectly with a sunny day on their outdoor patio. In addition to their core beers, Lift Bridge also offers a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-edition brews, so there's always something new to try.
Maple Island Brewing Company, situated in the heart of downtown Stillwater, is another must-visit brewery in the area. They pride themselves on brewing traditional and innovative beers using high-quality ingredients. From their smooth and creamy Brown Eyed Girl Brown Ale to their hop-forward and citrusy St. James IPA, Maple Island Brewing offers a diverse range of beers that cater to all palates.
Aside from the breweries, Stillwater also boasts a vibrant wine scene. In fact, it is home to three vineyards: Saint Croix Vineyards, Northern Vineyards Winery, and Aamodt's Apple Farm and Winery. Each of these vineyards offers a unique experience, from wine tastings to vineyard tours. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a glass every now and then, Stillwater's vineyards provide a delightful opportunity to savor locally produced wines.
The local restaurants in Stillwater also embrace the craft beverage culture, offering an impressive selection of wines and local beers on tap. Whether you're dining at a cozy bistro or a trendy gastropub, you can expect to find a well-curated wine list and a variety of local brews to complement your meal.
In recent years, Stillwater has seen the addition of two new distilleries on Main Street, further expanding the craft beverage options in the area. These distilleries offer a range of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, and gin, that are crafted with care and attention to detail. If you're a fan of craft cocktails or enjoy sipping spirits neat, these distilleries are definitely worth a visit.
Stillwater, Minnesota offers a delightful array of craft beverages to sip and savor. Whether you're a beer enthusiast, wine lover, or enjoy exploring the world of spirits, you'll find plenty of options to indulge your taste buds in this charming town. So, next time you're in Stillwater, be sure to ask for the wine list or local beers on tap at the restaurants and make time to visit the breweries, vineyards, and distilleries that call this beautiful city home.