Features

Last call: From White Oak and Roaring Table to Hopewell and Kinslahger, we asked craft beer enthusiasts and industry professionals for the most underrated breweries in Illinois
Brewer’s Choice: Bubblehouse Brewing Company’s Jon Miller on memorable beers from Werk Force and Skeleton Key, making patrons feel at home, and how it’s never to early to plan for Lisle’s Bluegrass Oktoberfest
Illinois Brewing Insider Daniel Booth on his admiration of Phase Three, Roaring Table and Art History Brewing, the assortment and community vibes at The Beer Cellar, and why The 1899 Pub is a must-stop in Ohio
Spotlight on Wolfden Brewing: This cozy Bloomingdale brewery has a Wisconsin lodge vibe, a ghost named Jack, and an emphasis on classic beer styles with modern twists
Q&A with Dan Ochwat and Jessica Sedgwick — This Chicago couple co-authored “Beer Hiking Chicago and Beyond,” a new guidebook made up of a curated collection of 30 family-friendly beer hikes
Brewer’s Choice: Horse Thief Hollow’s Andrian Morrison on the Sgt. Reckless pale ale from Evil Horse, admiring Hailstorm Brewing, winning two gold medals and helping veterans with PTSD
Spotlight on Roaring Table Brewing Co. — Rich details, warm vibes, an upcoming expansion and quality examples of a wide range of beer styles — it’s all happening in Lake Zurich
Illinois Brewing Insider: Flipside Brewing owner Erik Pizer on the impressive variety at Werk Force, Horse Thief Hollow’s Little Wing pilsner and relaxing at The Open Bottle and Sheboygan’s 3 Sheeps Brewing
Spotlight on Spiteful Brewing: From humble beginnings in a 400 square-foot basement to churning out award-winning beers with a cozy taproom and patio on Chicago’s far north side
Business spotlight on TBI Pro Brew Supply: This rapidly growing company isn’t just suppliers, but also consultants with a focus on the growth and development of breweries, brewpubs and homebrew stores
Brewer’s Choice: White Oak Brewing co-owner and head brewer Scott Schahrer on Destihl’s Dosvidanya stouts, an appreciation for Triptych and Roaring Table, and his own taproom expansion and Rippin’ Lips sessionable pale ale
Illinois Brewing Insider: Tina Overton on a love of Sew Hop’d Brewery, the creativity of Energy City, Jonamac’s homemade ciders and a South Florida hidden gem called LauderAle Brewery
Spotlight on Forgottonia Brewing: Utilizing ingredients from local farms, this friendly brewery in downtown Macomb focuses on bringing people together
Illinois Brewing Insider: John Streetz on the West Coast IPAs from Flipside Brewing, the Varitace dark Czech lager from Art History Brewing, and feeling at home with the crew at Lunar Brewing
Breweries in Bunches: Venture up to Rockford to find a quartet of unique craft breweries, each with its own charm and plenty of great beer options
Brewer’s choice: Kishwaukee Brewing’s Mark Gres on Revolution’s Cold Time, being a fan of Roaring Table and enjoying filling his own tanks with traditional lager styles
Spotlight on Alter Brewing + Kitchen: Delicious craft comfort food and a seriously stylish space in Oak Brook Commons highlight this company’s third location
Illinois Brewing Insider: Black Lung Brewing’s Josh Grubbs on Mikerphone’s quality hazy IPAs, his own barrel-aged Belgian quad, Denver’s Bierstadt Lagerhaus and expanding one’s palate at Beer Bazaar
Spotlight on Half Day Brewing: This Lincolnshire favorite will draw you in with their lagers and barrel-aged stouts, extensive menu (try the smoked wings) and versatile event spaces
Brewer’s Choice: Une Année & Hubbard’s Cave co-owner Dave Nelson on Sketchbook Brewing’s consistency, a tasty imperial stout from Pulpit Rock, and his own impressive barrel-aged program and BBQ
Last call: From Revolution’s Straight Jacket barrel-aged barleywine to Odell’s Isolation Ale and Pig Minds’ Joe Daddy coffee stout, we asked for your favorite winter beer
Business spotlight on Insure the Brewery — Born out of an agency with more than 90 years of experience and brewery owners themselves, Beau Ingledue and his staff have developed a niche for insuring fellow craft brewers
Spotlight on Maplewood Brewery & Distillery: This Chicago favorite has grown from brewing in basements as far back as 2005 to creating one of the state’s most diverse programs
Brewer’s Choice: Emancipation Brewing’s Lincoln Slagel on the dry-hopped lager from Werk Force, an appreciation for Old Irving and Triptych, and celebrating his own brewery’s thoughtfully curated menu and 5-year anniversary
Spotlight on Springfield Beer Company: Two distinctly different locations in central Illinois, a diverse lineup of beers and a new production facility in the works — not a bad four years for Ryan Kunken & staff
Illinois Brewing Insider: Beer on the Wall’s Josh Sissman on an appreciation for Alarmist, Hop Butcher and Hopleaf, quality family time on the Une Année patio, and exploring the artistry from Alpha Brewing in St. Louis
Q&A with Beckie O’Connor about the long-awaited official grand opening of The Vogt House by Banging Gavel Brews in Tinley Park
Spotlight on One Allegiance Brewing: Zack Judickas’ entrepreneurial spirit, patience and creativity have made this SW suburban brewery and beer garden a true destination
Brewer’s Choice: Nik & Ivy’s Chrissy Ivnik on Maplewood’s Charlatan pale ale, the variety at Noon Whistle, and how her founder memberships can be the perfect holiday gift
Spotlight on Broken Tee Brewing: North suburban Highwood is home to this passion project from a former golf pro whose love of the sport is evident throughout
Breweries in Bunches: NW suburban Huntley and Woodstock are home to a handful of some of the state’s more creative and comfortable craft breweries
Illinois Brewing Insider: Bubblehouse Brewing’s Evan Nimke on lagers by Art History and Goldfinger, the friendly vibes at The Beer and Now and Freedom Brothers in the west burbs, and their own grodziskie collaboration with Brother Chimp
Spotlight on Evergreen Farm Brewing: This fifth-generation farm near Peoria serves as an authentically cozy backdrop for a destination brewery
Spotlight on Crust Brewing: This modern, inviting hotspot in the heart of Rosemont’s entertainment district is known for its handcrafted food, cocktails and German-inspired beer
Brewer’s Choice: Mickey Finn’s Jason Martens on Roaring Table’s appeal, creating a level of approachability, and his own Santa’s Magic Belgian strong ale
Illinois Brewing Insider: Chicagoland Brews Cruise owner Kirk Kilker on the passion shown by Alter Brewing and Whiskey Hill, appreciating the grodziskie style, and the Sidecar Supper Club in Batavia
Illinois Brewing Insider: Timothy Ficken from Midwest Coast Brewing on the lagers and hefeweizens and Dovetail and Metropolitan, the return of his own Friendsgiving spiced strong ale, and hidden gem bars like Tuman’s Tap
New kids on the block: A handful of exciting new breweries have opened in Illinois, and we couldn’t be happier to hoist a pint with them
Business spotlight on Apple Growth Partners: Complete and personalized accounting and consultation services for businesses of all sizes
Brewer’s Choice: Scratch Brewing’s Marika Josephson on the perfection that is Duvel’s golden ale, the thought-provoking creations from Is/Was Brewing, and supporting her community in southern Illinois
Spotlight on Two Hound Red: West suburban Glen Ellyn is home to this visually striking brewery with an innovative menu and a focus on lighter, simpler flavors of beer
Breweries in Bunches: Chicago’s Malt Row district just happens to be one of the more prolific craft beer neighborhoods in the country
Q&A with Rob Hunter: We sat down with Crust Brewing’s head brewer to discuss his brewing background, a history of Oktoberfest beer, and getting things rolling in Rosemont
Last call: We asked craft beer insiders and enthusiasts for their favorite Oktoberfest and fall beers
Brewer’s Choice: Burnt City’s Ben Saller on being impressed by Phase Three and Roaring Table, constantly tweaking recipes, and tapping his own traditional Oktoberfest
Spotlight on Triptych Brewing: Located just outside of Champaign, this 10-year-old brewery with 28 beers on draft has seen significant expansion while focusing on owning the local market
Illinois Brewing Insiders: The Midwest Brew Review guys on Maplewood and Art History doing great things, the charm of New Glarus, and how Horse Thief Hollow’s award-winning pilsner is ideal for summer
Last call: We asked Illinois craft-beer professionals and enthusiasts for the summer brews they look forward to most
Unique beer gardens and patios: We went on a quest to find some of Illinois’ most intriguing outdoor spaces to have a beer and soak up the last of summer
Spotlight on Chicagoland Brews Cruise: Public and private tours of area breweries with personable guides, generous pours and “beer talks” with the brewers? Count us in
Spotlight on Burning Bush Brewery: The creation of a former pastor, this newer brewery in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood offers a beautiful riverfront patio, tasty beers and a perfect stop-off on the way to Wrigley
Brewer’s Choice: Double Clutch Brewing’s Scott Frank on the unique vibe at his award-winning brewery, a fondness for Evanston neighbors Temperance and Sketchbook, and gearing up for a big Oktoberfest party
Spotlight on Church Street Brewing Company: This custom-made, family-run brewery is celebrating 11 years in Itasca and offers up a little something for everyone
Illinois Brewing Insider Eric Farrell from Bottle Theory in Elmhurst on Hop Butcher’s small-batch offerings, Goldfinger’s stellar Mexican lager and his own easy-drinking collaboration with Riverlands
Brewery spotlight: Hangar Two by Tangled Roots Brewing Company offers an impressive menu and stylish space in north suburban Glenview
Brewery spotlight: The Old Bakery Beer Company in the historic town of Alton is the creation of a talented husband-and-wife duo focused on community, the environment and great beer
Brewer’s Choice: Old Irving Brewing’s Trevor Rose-Hamblin on discovering Pipeworks’ dortmunder, growing his own lager series, and a delightful cocktail-inspired sour from MORE Brewing
Spotlight on Zorn Compressor & Equipment: Seven decades of providing — and maintaining — reliable, efficient and cost-effective compressed air solutions
Illinois Brewing Insider: Beermiscuous co-manager Phil Vasquez on becoming a Lukr tap fanatic, his love of a good ESB (especially Art History’s) and how Half Acre’s new lime lager will be a summer staple
Brewery spotlight: Both innovative and unconventional, Off Color Brewing, the self-proclaimed “fermentation-focused brewery,” has been racking up awards for 10 years in Chicago
Brewer’s Choice: Door 4 Brewing’s Justin Curtis on Twisted Hippo’s dark lager and Noon Whistle’s hop water, Old Irving making their guest tap list, and excitement for patio season in Decatur
Brewery spotlight: Located in the heart of thriving downtown La Grange, Milk Money Brewing is enjoying “leaning into their creative side”
Breweries in Bunches: The Bloomington-Normal area is bursting at the seams with a half dozen popular craft breweries that offer a little bit of everything
Illinois Brewing Insider Samantha Lee, co-owner of Hopewell Brewing, on collaborating with Goldfinger, her own Outside Voice session IPA, and the quality BBQ and beer list at Green Street Smoked Meats
Spotlight on Hailstorm Brewing: An award-winning brewing team, spacious patio, expanding barrel-aging program and delicious smoked wings in south suburban Tinley Park
Spotlight on Reserve Artisan Ales: This newish, family-owned brewery offers a pour-you-own tap system and beautiful event space in downtown Galesburg
Brewer’s Choice: Trail’s Edge head brewer Dan Luksetich on getting inspiration from Koningshoeven and Rodenbach, a love of Goldfinger lagers and launching his own pairing events in Frankfort
Spotlight on Illuminated Brew Works: “Producing quality beer for interesting times” with a funky, neighborhood bar kind of vibe on Chicago’s far NW side
Illinois Brewing Insiders Romeo & Brewliet on the excitement surrounding Phase Three’s second location, partying with (and learning from) Chaos Brew Club, and the impressive tap selection at Church Street
Spotlight on Tighthead Brewing Company: Offering plenty of friendly “English pub culture” and award-winning beers in north suburban Mundelein
We’ve got apps: Here are a few brewery appetizers from around the state that have caught our eye — and made our stomachs growl
Spotlight on Analytical Brewing: Opened in 2022 by three neighbors, they’re churning out a balanced lineup of beers along Route 66 in Lexington
Brewer’s Choice: Noon Whistle head brewer Paul Kreiner on Half Acre’s Bodem, Revolution’s Deep Woods series, and his very own hop Water and Hop Prism IPAs
Spotlight on Haymarket Brewing Company: Plenty of award-winning beer, scrumptious food and a lively, versatile space in Chicago’s dynamic West Loop
Small-business spotlight on Leaders Beverage: The experts in draft system designs, maintenance and beverage consultancy
Illinois Brewing Insider Cesar Marron on his own Common Culture oatmeal stout, drinking Belgians at Hopleaf and spending a day on Metropolitan’s patio
Fresh on the scene: Learn more about the new venues from District Brew Yards, Alter Brewing + Kitchen, Burning Bush Brewery and Hop Butcher for the World
Spotlight on Scorched Earth Brewing: Head to NW suburban Algonquin for this cozy taproom, cavernous event space, live music and a variety of tasty brews (donuts, anyone?)
Brewer’s Choice: Rt. 66 Old School Brewing’s Paul Bidne on his “Mango Is Our Middle Name” sour, local disc golf bar crawls and an appreciation for Blue Island Beer Company
Illinois Brewing Insider Mike Zoller on a love of Dovetail’s Czech dark lager, Chicago’s best barrel-aged options and the experience that is Treehouse Brewing Company
Spotlight on Door 4 Brewing Co. — This Decatur favorite offers a wide variety of beer styles, axe throwing, a popular stage, and even its own food truck
Breweries in bunches: West suburban St. Charles is booming these days, and at the center of its popularity is a quartet of fantastically unique breweries
Spotlight on Mickey Finn’s Brewery: Expect great grub, award-winning beers, a stylish space and beer garden, live music and more at this long-time Libertyville favorite
From the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild: A journey toward direct-to-consumer shipping for Illinois craft breweries
Brewer’s Choice: Elmhurst Brewing co-owner Frazer Donaldson on Deth’s Tar from Revolution, Kinslahger’s mash-hopped lager and his own 5-year anniversary party Feb. 4
Spotlight on Alarmist Brewing: Recipe development is key at this northwest Chicago brewery that’s home to several award-winning beers
Illinois Brewing Insider Tommy Riemer on Maplewood’s Morbidly Obese Pug, a love of Phase Three and Lil Beaver Brewing, shopping at Bottle Theory and crossing the border for Beer Church and Journeyman Distillery
Spotlight on Rabid Brewing: There’s no shortage of fun to be had at this SW suburban Homewood brewery, designed with “the creatives, the nerds, the rebels and the odd ones in mind”
Spotlight on Une Année/Hubbard’s Cave Brewery: This Niles taproom is known for its variety of quality beer and sun-filled patio, but wait till you try their BBQ
Illinois Brewing Insider Geoff Hutchins on a love of Hubbard’s Cave’s dessert-style stouts and Phase Three’s Pixel Density Lite, breweries on vacation, and finding Goose Island Green Line again
Spotlight on Crushed by Giants: The team behind DryHop Brewers hit a home run with this gem overlooking Michigan Ave
New beginnings: How perseverance and the support of the Illinois craft brewing community helped Skelton Key and Twisted Hippo back from disaster
Illinois Brewing Insider Sean West on an admiration for Triptych Brewing and Two Brothers’ Domaine DuPage, drinking seasonally and his plans at Forgottonia
Spotlight on Imperial Oak Brewing: Experienced ownership, a versatile venue and strong barrel-aged program is quite a trifecta in Willow Springs
Breweries in bunches: North suburban Evanston may be best known for Northwestern University, but it’s also home to five uniquely charming breweries
Spotlight on Blue Cat Brewing Co: Old-school vibe, Midwest comfort food and 30 years of brewing experience in the heart of Rock Island
The Tap List: Beer on the Wall owner Ryan Tracy chats about humble beginnings, selling individual cans and which Illinois breweries have caught his eye
Spotlight on Scratch Brewing Company: This unique farmhouse brewery near the Shawnee National Forest focuses on homegrown, locally farmed and foraged ingredients
Spotlight on Bubblehouse Brewing Company: Open just a year, this family-focused brewery in Lisle values community and conversation
Illinois Brewing Insider: Ryan Daniels on the Half Acre beer garden, the Clockwork English barleywine from Foreign Exchange Brewing, and what’s caught his eye of late
Spotlight on Eris: This woman-owned brewery, cider house and restaurant on Chicago’s NW side has plenty of character — not to mention great beer, cider and food
Spotlight on Mikerphone Brewing: With music and flavor as their inspiration, this popular Elk Grove Village brewery is celebrating seven years with big plans ahead
Q&A with Ray Stout: The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild’s new executive director chats about the industry surviving Covid, the state’s impressive array of beer, and local breweries having each other’s backs

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