It’s no wonder Madison plays host to the annual Great Taste of the Midwest, one of the premier beer fests in the United States, it’s the kind of town that knows its beers, and has a raft of brewmeisters well versed in brewing.
1. If you want to be locked in a room with seriously great beer, Ale Asylum offers a selection only a crazed brewmeister could concoct. With off-the-wall names such as Ambergeddon, Sticky McDoogle and Contorter Porter, you know you’re in for something different. As the name suggests, ales are their thing, but they also boast a variety of seasonal brews. Their taproom is a cozy urban hangout where the pizzas are as delicious as their beers.
2. On the banks of the Wisconsin River, local legend Tom Porter has grown his garage operation into a full-fledged brewery. Lake Louie Brewing features beers which retain a quirky, homemade spirit. Porter insists the source of his good fortune is the water from a nearby well, which he claims is ideally suited for ales. Warped Speed Scotch Ale is a stellar example of his otherworldly brews. Beam me up Tommy!
3. A short drive from Madison, in the rolling hills of southern Wisconsin, New Glarus Brewing is surrounded by pastures reminiscent of the alpine farmlands of Switzerland. One of their most popular beers is Spotted Cow. It’s cask conditioned, and they refer to it as their “farmhouse ale.” You know you’re in Wisconsin, when you see a Spotted Cow!
4. Located just outside Madison, in the quiet streets of downtown Middleton, Capital Brewery goes about it’s business making the lighter varieties of lagers, pilsners and wheat beers. A recent hit, Island Wheat, uses wheat grown on Wisconsin’s remote Washington Island. At the brewery, they offer a “Bier Stube” in the cooler months, and a raucous “Bier Garten” in the summer, featuring weekly live music.
5. For more traditional beers, a full menu selection, and a place to watch Madison’s beloved Badgers play football, head to The Great Dane. They offer a variety of styles to meet any taste — from American-style lagers to hoppy ales. While their offerings are fine brews, they don’t stray far from standard fare. You can’t buy their beer in stores, but their re-usable growlers are great for filling up at the tap and taking home fresh brew.