Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in Wisconsin? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer in Wisconsin so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Wisconsin, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Badger State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#11 New Glarus Brewing Company – 3.90 average Untapped rating

Note- we enjoy this brewery so much that we had to include them in the top 10 😄

New Glarus Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in New Glarus, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of New Glarus Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: New Glarus Brewing Company is situated in the charming town of New Glarus, Wisconsin, at 2400 WI-69, New Glarus, WI 53574. The brewery is nestled amidst the picturesque rolling hills of southern Wisconsin.

2. **Founding**: New Glarus Brewing Company was founded by Deborah and Daniel Carey in 1993. The Careys embarked on their brewing journey with a dedication to creating world-class beers using traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: New Glarus Brewing Company is committed to brewing exceptional craft beers that showcase the rich brewing heritage of Wisconsin while incorporating innovative techniques and flavors. They prioritize quality and craftsmanship in every aspect of their brewing process, from selecting the finest ingredients to maintaining strict quality control standards.

4. **Beer Selection**: New Glarus Brewing Company offers a wide range of craft beers, including a variety of styles such as lagers, ales, IPAs, stouts, and sour beers. They are best known for their iconic “Spotted Cow” farmhouse ale, which has become a Wisconsin staple. Additionally, New Glarus produces seasonal and limited-edition releases that highlight the diversity and creativity of their brewing portfolio.

5. **Taproom Experience**: While New Glarus Brewing Company does not operate a traditional taproom, they offer guided tours of their brewery facilities, providing visitors with insights into the brewing process and the history of the brewery. Visitors can explore the brewery grounds, learn about New Glarus’ brewing techniques, and sample a variety of their beers during the tour.

6. **Distribution**: New Glarus Brewing Company primarily distributes its beers within the state of Wisconsin. They are known for their commitment to maintaining local distribution, focusing on serving their loyal customer base in Wisconsin rather than expanding to out-of-state markets. New Glarus beers are available at retail outlets, bars, and restaurants throughout Wisconsin.

Overall, New Glarus Brewing Company holds a special place in the hearts of Wisconsin beer enthusiasts, known for its dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation. Whether you’re enjoying a pint of Spotted Cow at a local tavern or exploring the brewery’s scenic surroundings on a tour, a visit to New Glarus Brewing Company offers a quintessential Wisconsin craft beer experience.

#10 Young Blood Beer Company – 3.94 average Untapped rating

Young Blood Beer Company is a craft brewery located in Madison, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Young Blood Beer Company:

1. **Location**: Young Blood Beer Company is situated in Madison, Wisconsin, at 112 King St, Madison, WI 53703. The brewery is centrally located in downtown Madison, making it easily accessible to locals and visitors alike.

2. **Founding**: Young Blood Beer Company was founded by Kyle Gregorash and Tom Dufek. The brewery opened its doors in 2019, with a mission to bring innovative and high-quality craft beers to the Madison community.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Young Blood Beer Company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of craft beer by experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques. They prioritize creativity, quality, and consistency in their brewing process, aiming to create beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.

4. **Beer Selection**: Young Blood Beer Company offers a diverse selection of craft beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, saisons, and sour beers. They are known for their rotating lineup of beers, with new and innovative brews frequently added to the tap list. Young Blood often collaborates with local artists and businesses to create special releases and limited-edition beers that reflect the vibrant culture of Madison.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Young Blood Beer Company operates a taproom at their brewery in downtown Madison, providing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a modern and industrial-chic design, with ample seating and a lively ambiance. Visitors can sample a variety of Young Blood’s beers on tap, enjoy brewery tours, and engage with the friendly staff.

6. **Distribution**: While Young Blood Beer Company primarily serves its beers on-site at their taproom, they occasionally distribute kegs to local bars and restaurants in the Madison area. They also offer crowlers and growlers for customers to take their favorite beers home.

Overall, Young Blood Beer Company has quickly become a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Madison, known for its innovative brews, welcoming taproom, and commitment to the local community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor to the area, a visit to Young Blood Beer Company promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#9 Hacienda Beer Co – 3.94 average Untapped rating

Hacienda Beer Co is a craft brewery located in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Hacienda Beer Co:

1. **Location**: Hacienda Beer Co is situated in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, at 8025 WI-57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202. Baileys Harbor is located in Door County, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant tourism industry.

2. **Founding**: Hacienda Beer Co was founded by the owners of Door County Brewing Company, John McMahon and Danny McMahon. The brewery opened its doors in 2017, adding a new dimension to Door County’s craft beer scene.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Hacienda Beer Co is dedicated to producing innovative and high-quality craft beers that showcase creativity and craftsmanship. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and experimenting with unique flavor combinations and brewing techniques. Hacienda aims to create beers that excite and inspire both seasoned craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers to the scene.

4. **Beer Selection**: Hacienda Beer Co offers a diverse and rotating selection of craft beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, saisons, and barrel-aged specialties. They are known for their creative and experimental approach to brewing, often incorporating unusual ingredients and collaborations with local businesses and artists.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Hacienda Beer Co operates a taproom at their brewery in Baileys Harbor, providing a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a rustic and cozy ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options. Visitors can sample a variety of Hacienda’s beers on tap, enjoy brewery tours, and purchase merchandise and packaged beer to take home.

6. **Distribution**: Hacienda Beer Co distributes its beers throughout Wisconsin and to select locations in other states. They work with a network of distributors to ensure that their beers are available at retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and other establishments across the region. Additionally, Hacienda occasionally releases limited-edition and specialty beers exclusively available at their taproom.

Overall, Hacienda Beer Co has become a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts visiting Door County, known for its innovative brews, picturesque location, and welcoming taproom experience. Whether you’re exploring the scenic beauty of Baileys Harbor or simply seeking out exceptional craft beer, a visit to Hacienda Beer Co is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.

#8 Octopi Brewing – 3.95 average Untapped rating

Octopi Brewing is a prominent brewery located in Waunakee, Wisconsin. Here’s a detailed overview covering various aspects of Octopi Brewing:

1. **Location**: Octopi Brewing is situated in Waunakee, Wisconsin, at 1131 Uniek Dr, Waunakee, WI 53597.

2. **Founding**: Octopi Brewing was established in 2015 by Isaac Showaki. The brewery was founded with the vision of providing contract brewing and production services to a wide range of beverage producers, including breweries, cideries, and other beverage companies.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Octopi Brewing is dedicated to producing high-quality craft beverages while adhering to the highest standards of brewing excellence. They prioritize innovation, quality ingredients, and meticulous attention to detail in their brewing process. Octopi Brewing aims to push the boundaries of traditional brewing and continuously experiment with new flavors and brewing techniques.

4. **Beer Selection**: Octopi Brewing offers a diverse and extensive selection of craft beers, including a wide range of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. Their portfolio includes both core beers and limited-edition releases, showcasing a variety of flavors and brewing styles to cater to different tastes and preferences.

5. **Taproom Experience**: While Octopi Brewing primarily operates as a production facility and contract brewery, they do not have a dedicated taproom open to the public. However, they occasionally host special events, tastings, and brewery tours for industry professionals and partners.

6. **Distribution**: Octopi Brewing distributes its products extensively throughout Wisconsin and beyond. They work with a network of distributors to ensure that their craft beverages are available at retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and other establishments across the region. Additionally, Octopi Brewing offers packaging options such as cans, bottles, and kegs to meet the diverse needs of their clients and consumers.

Overall, Octopi Brewing is a leading player in the craft beverage industry, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration. While they do not have a public taproom, their focus on contract brewing and production allows them to partner with a diverse range of beverage producers and contribute to the vibrant craft beer scene in Wisconsin and beyond.

#7 Twelve5 Beverage Co – 3.95 average Untapped rating

Twelve5 Beverage Co is a beverage distributor located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview focusing solely on the company and its offerings:

1. **Location**: Twelve5 Beverage Co is situated in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 5225 W Electric Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53219.

2. **Founding**: Twelve5 Beverage Co was founded to serve as a distributor of a wide range of beverages, including craft beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. The company was established to provide a platform for beverage producers to reach a wider audience and for consumers to access a diverse selection of beverages.

3. **Product Selection**: Twelve5 Beverage Co offers a diverse portfolio of beverages, including craft beer from local and regional breweries, domestic and imported wine, a variety of spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages such as craft soda, kombucha, and sparkling water. They work with a wide range of producers and brands to curate a selection that appeals to different tastes and preferences.

4. **Distribution**: Twelve5 Beverage Co distributes its products to retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and other establishments throughout Wisconsin. They work closely with their partners to ensure timely delivery and support in marketing and promoting their products.

5. **Partnerships**: Twelve5 Beverage Co collaborates with beverage producers to develop marketing strategies, organize promotional events, and facilitate product launches. They aim to build strong partnerships with their suppliers and customers to foster long-term relationships and mutual success.

Overall, Twelve5 Beverage Co plays a vital role in the beverage industry in Wisconsin, serving as a distributor of a diverse range of craft beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. While community engagement may not be their primary focus, their dedication to providing high-quality beverages and excellent service has earned them a reputation as a trusted partner among producers and retailers in the region.

#6 Vennture Brew Co – 4.01 average Untapped rating

Vennture Brew Co is a craft brewery and coffee shop located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview focusing solely on the brewery and its offerings:

1. **Location**: Vennture Brew Co is situated in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 5519 W North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53208.

2. **Founding**: Vennture Brew Co was founded by Brian Weber and Simon McConico. The brewery opened its doors in 2018 with a unique concept that combines craft beer and specialty coffee under one roof.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Vennture Brew Co is dedicated to producing high-quality craft beers with a focus on creativity and innovation. They aim to create a diverse range of beer styles, drawing inspiration from traditional brewing techniques and experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations.

4. **Beer Selection**: Vennture Brew Co offers a rotating selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, ales, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their approachable yet flavorful brews, which often feature balanced flavors and a focus on quality ingredients.

5. **Coffee Selection**: In addition to craft beer, Vennture Brew Co also offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks. They roast their own coffee beans on-site, ensuring freshness and quality in every cup. Their coffee menu includes espresso drinks, pour-overs, cold brews, and more.

6. **Taproom Experience**: Vennture Brew Co operates a taproom at their brewery in Milwaukee, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers and coffee. The taproom features a modern and minimalist design, with ample seating and occasional events such as live music or trivia nights.

Overall, Vennture Brew Co has become a beloved destination for craft beer and coffee enthusiasts in Milwaukee, known for their dedication to quality, creativity, and community involvement. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious craft beer or a specialty coffee drink, a visit to Vennture Brew Co is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.

#5 Untitled Art – 4.02 average Untapped rating

Untitled Art is a unique collaborative brewery located in Waunakee, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview focusing solely on the brewery and its offerings:

1. **Location**: Untitled Art is situated in Waunakee, Wisconsin, at 1131 Uniek Dr, Waunakee, WI 53597.

2. **Founding**: Untitled Art was founded in 2016 by Isaac Showaki, the owner of Octopi Brewing, and Levi Funk, the founder of Funk Factory Geuzeria. The brewery operates as a collaborative project, partnering with various breweries and artists to create innovative and experimental beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Untitled Art is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of craft beer by collaborating with other breweries, artists, and creative minds. They aim to create beers that challenge traditional styles and flavor profiles, resulting in unique and memorable brews.

4. **Beer Selection**: Untitled Art offers a diverse selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, fruit beers, and experimental brews. They are known for their creative and boundary-pushing collaborations, which often feature bold flavors and unconventional ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Untitled Art operates a taproom at their brewery in Waunakee, providing a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a rotating selection of draft pours, cans to-go, and occasional special releases. They also host events and collaborations with other breweries and artists, creating an engaging and dynamic experience for visitors.

6. **Distribution**: Untitled Art distributes its beers throughout Wisconsin and to select locations in other states. They also release special releases and limited-edition beers periodically throughout the year, often generating significant excitement among craft beer enthusiasts.

Overall, Untitled Art has become known for its collaborative and experimental approach to brewing, partnering with other breweries and artists to create innovative and boundary-pushing beers. While community engagement may not be their primary focus, their dedication to creativity and quality has earned them a loyal following among beer enthusiasts.

#4 Eagle Park Brewing Company – 4.03 average Untapped rating

Eagle Park Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview focusing solely on the brewery and its offerings:

1. **Location**: Eagle Park Brewing Company is situated in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with two locations:

   – Main Brewery and Taproom: 823 E Hamilton St, Milwaukee, WI 53202.

   – Muskego Tasting Room: S64W15680 Commerce Center Pkwy, Muskego, WI 53150.

2. **Founding**: Eagle Park Brewing Company was founded by brothers Max and Jackson Borgardt, along with Jake Schinker. The brewery opened its doors in 2017 with a focus on producing innovative and flavorful craft beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Eagle Park Brewing Company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of craft beer by experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques. They aim to create beers that are both approachable and exciting, appealing to a wide range of beer enthusiasts.

4. **Beer Selection**: Eagle Park Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged specialties. They are known for their rotating lineup of hazy IPAs, pastry stouts, fruited sours, and experimental brews, which often feature bold flavors and creative twists.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Eagle Park Brewing Company operates two taprooms, each offering a unique and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The main brewery and taproom in Milwaukee features a spacious and industrial-chic design, while the Muskego tasting room provides a more intimate and relaxed setting. Both locations offer a variety of seating options, including indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as occasional events and food trucks.

6. **Distribution**: Eagle Park Brewing Company distributes its beers throughout Wisconsin and to select locations in other states. They also release special releases and limited-edition beers periodically throughout the year, often drawing long lines of eager beer enthusiasts.

Overall, Eagle Park Brewing Company has quickly become a prominent player in the Wisconsin craft beer scene, known for their innovative approach to brewing and their commitment to quality and creativity. While community engagement may not be their primary focus, their dedication to brewing exceptional beers has earned them a loyal following among beer enthusiasts.

#3 Central Waters Brewing Company – 4.03 average Untapped rating

Central Waters Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in Amherst, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview focusing solely on the brewery and its offerings:

1. **Location**: Central Waters Brewing Company is situated in Amherst, a small village in central Wisconsin. The brewery’s address is 351 Allen St, Amherst, WI 54406.

2. **Founding**: Central Waters Brewing Company was founded in 1998 by Mike McElwain and Jerome Ebel. The brewery initially started as a brewpub in Junction City, Wisconsin, before relocating to its current facility in Amherst in 2007 to accommodate its growing production.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Central Waters Brewing Company is dedicated to producing high-quality craft beers using traditional brewing techniques and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They focus on a wide range of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and barrel-aged specialties.

4. **Beer Selection**: Central Waters Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of beers, including their popular Mudpuppy Porter, Ouisconsing Red Ale, HHG APA, and a variety of barrel-aged beers, such as their Bourbon Barrel Stout and Bourbon Barrel Barleywine. They are also known for their Brewer’s Reserve and Anniversary series, which feature limited-edition and experimental brews.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Central Waters Brewing Company operates a taproom at their brewery in Amherst. The taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers, with a rustic and industrial-chic design. They offer brewery tours, tastings, and occasional events, providing visitors with an immersive brewery experience.

6. **Distribution**: Central Waters Brewing Company distributes its beers throughout Wisconsin and to select locations in neighboring states. They also release special releases and limited-edition beers periodically throughout the year, which often generate significant excitement among craft beer enthusiasts.

Overall, Central Waters Brewing Company has become a beloved fixture in the Wisconsin craft beer scene, known for their commitment to quality, innovation, and community involvement. While community engagement may not be their primary focus, their dedication to brewing excellent beers has made them a respected name in the industry.

#2 1840 Brewing Company – 4.07 average Untapped rating

1840 Brewing Company is actually located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, not Iowa. Here’s an overview of 1840 Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: 1840 Brewing Company is situated in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 342 E Ward St, Milwaukee, WI 53207.

2. **Founding**: 1840 Brewing Company was founded by Kyle Vetter. The brewery opened its doors in 2017 with a focus on producing artisanal, barrel-aged, and mixed fermentation beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: 1840 Brewing Company is dedicated to creating unique and complex beers using traditional brewing methods combined with modern techniques. They specialize in barrel-aging and mixed fermentation, often blending different batches to achieve balanced and flavorful brews.

4. **Beer Selection**: 1840 Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of beers, including barrel-aged stouts, farmhouse ales, sour beers, and experimental brews. Their beers are known for their complexity, depth of flavor, and attention to detail.

5. **Taproom Experience**: 1840 Brewing Company operates a taproom at their brewery in Milwaukee, providing a welcoming and cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a rustic and industrial-chic design, with communal tables, a bar area, and occasional events such as bottle releases and tastings.

6. **Community Engagement**: While 1840 Brewing Company may not heavily focus on community engagement, they do participate in local beer festivals, events, and collaborations with other breweries. They also have a strong following among beer enthusiasts who appreciate their innovative approach to brewing.

Overall, 1840 Brewing Company has become a respected name in the craft beer scene, known for their exceptional barrel-aged and mixed fermentation beers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or new to craft beer, a visit to 1840 Brewing Company is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.

#1 Funk Factory Geuzeria – 4.12 average Untapped rating

Funk Factory Geuzeria is a renowned brewery located in Madison, Wisconsin, specializing in spontaneously fermented and barrel-aged sour beers inspired by traditional Belgian lambics. Here’s an overview of Funk Factory Geuzeria:

1. **Location**: Funk Factory Geuzeria is situated in Madison, Wisconsin, at 1602 Gilson St, Madison, WI 53715.

2. **Founding**: Funk Factory Geuzeria was founded by Levi Funk in 2013. Funk had a passion for sour beer and was inspired by the traditional lambic producers of Belgium. He set out to create his own interpretation of these complex and flavorful beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Funk Factory Geuzeria is dedicated to producing authentic and innovative sour beers using traditional brewing methods. They focus on spontaneous fermentation, which involves exposing the beer to wild yeast and bacteria present in the environment, resulting in unique and complex flavors.

4. **Beer Selection**: Funk Factory Geuzeria offers a wide range of sour beers, including gueuze, lambic-inspired ales, fruited sours, and barrel-aged blends. These beers are aged in oak barrels for extended periods to develop layers of complexity and character.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Funk Factory Geuzeria operates a taproom at their brewery in Madison, providing a cozy and intimate space for patrons to sample their unique sour beers. The taproom offers a rotating selection of draft pours, bottles, and occasional special releases.

6. **Recognition**: Funk Factory Geuzeria has received numerous awards and accolades for their sour beers, earning acclaim from both beer drinkers and industry professionals. They are widely regarded as one of the top sour beer producers in the United States.

Overall, Funk Factory Geuzeria has become a destination for sour beer lovers, known for their commitment to quality, innovation, and tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or new to sour beers, a visit to Funk Factory Geuzeria is sure to be a memorable and flavorful experience.