Tap Talk: Tour Of Stillwater Breweries
Everyone loves a good pub crawl. But with the influx of breweries popping up all over the Twin Cities it can be hard to know where to start. What city should I visit? Which neighborhood has the most breweries? What are the beers like at each place? And, of course, can I walk or bike to these places?
Well, after a few months of touring the cities and tasting the beers each brewery has to offer, Tap Talk decided to offer our services and is putting together local taproom tours to help guide you in your drinking travels.
First up, Stillwater.
The beer scene in Stillwater is just beginning to grow, so it's a fun time to go check it out. There are two breweries currently located there, Lift Bridge Brewing Company and Maple Island Brewing, and they are just 2.6 miles away from each other. View our map below for directions.
Lift Bridge Brewing Company
Creators of the sought after mini doughnut beer from the Minnesota State Fair, Lift Bridge, began brewing nearly 14 years ago. But since 2010, they have called Stillwater home. Just before heading to downtown Stillwater, or on your way out, stop by this now city staple and indulge in biscotti, mango and coffee flavored ales.
Things To Know…
Flagship beers: Farm Girl (Saison), Crosscut (Pale Ale), Chestnut Hill (Brown Ale), Hop Dish (IPA)
Most popular: Farm Girl
Most awarded: Silhouette (Barrel-aged Stout)
Owner's favorite: Farm Girl
What to start with: "Well, whether it's here or at any brewery, I'd probably recommend they try out a flight," owner Dan Schwarz said.
Owner's one word description: Quality
Author's note: This is a great brewery to visit if you're just starting to drink craft beer. Their brews are flavorful but approachable. Farm Girl is an easy-drinking, light, citrus-y brew that is really enjoyable. And if you're already a craft beer lover, their seasonals are creative and rich, and the seven-hop Hop Dish IPA is sharp.
Quick Info
Lift Bridge is located at 1900 Tower Drive W. in Stillwater. They are open 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 12 to 10p.m. Friday and Saturday and 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Learn more about Lift Bridge by reading their feature on Tap Talk.
Maple Island Brewing
Drive, walk, bike or boat up to Maple Island Brewing, located right in downtown Stillwater. This historic building was home to a creamery, hardware store and now a brewery. Open only seven months, Maple Island is already attracting attention and brewing up some innovative beers.
Things To Know…
Flagship beers: Burlesque Kolsh (Kolsh), Maple Island Bock (Bock), Cup of Joe Freak Show (Oatmeal Stout)
Most popular: The Kolsh
What to start with: "I usually have them look at the IBUs," head brewer Nic Brau said. "I usually tell them to start on a lower end and to read the IBUs in the beer that they're drinking."
Owner's one word description: Adventerous
Author's note: This brewery has an extremely fun atmosphere. They are right on the river and open a large garage-style door in the summer so it's as if you're sitting on the water. They make really interesting and out there brews like pineapple IPAs, or Crunch Berry infused cream ales. If it's Friday, try the Firkin. It's beer sold in the way old-style taprooms would sell their ales, and it's usually a fun flavor. Also, Nic also recommends trying a flight, as do I. They have so many different, intriguing flavors that it's the best way to taste all of them.
Quick Info
Maple Island is located at 225 Main Street North in downtown Stillwater. They are open 12 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 12 to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Learn more about Maple Island by reading their feature on Tap Talk.
Hudson, Wis. And Beyond
If you're feeling adventurous, your day doesn't have to end in Stillwater. Just across the border in Hudson, Wis., a mere 9.5 miles away, lay American Sky Brewing Co. and Pitchfork Brewing. Or, head the opposite direction and visit Oliphant Brewing in Somerset, just over 8 miles away.
For more breweries, check out the Tap Talk features. Or have a brewery we should check out? Email Cole Premo or Katie Fraser.