Wisconsin is home to a variety of breweries, ranging from large-scale producers to small-batch craft brewers. The state's drinking culture is centred around the bustling taprooms of its many breweries, where beer enthusiasts gather to discuss and enjoy their favourite drinks. Wisconsin's beer landscape is diverse, with breweries offering everything from classic IPAs and lagers to more experimental options like sours and fruit beers. The state is also known for its brewpubs, which combine brewing operations with full-service restaurants, providing a unique dining and drinking experience. Wisconsin's most popular beer is the iconic Spotted Cow, a farmhouse ale by New Glarus Brewing Company, which has achieved cult status among locals and tourists alike.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Beer | Spotted Cow |
Beer Style | Farmhouse Ale |
Brewery | New Glarus Brewing Company |
Beer Distribution | Only available in Wisconsin |
Beer Characteristics | Fun, fruity and satisfying |
Beer Ranking | 1st in Wisconsin, 10th in the US |
Number of Breweries in Wisconsin | 266 |
Beer Recommendations | Moon Man, Two Women, Totally Naked, Summer Shandy, Miller Lite, High Life, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Summer Sour, First Kiss, Sproose |
What You'll Learn
Spotted Cow, a farmhouse ale by New Glarus Brewing Company
Spotted Cow is a blend of Pilsner malt, white wheat, and caramel malt. The water used in the brewing process comes from a well on the brewery property, and the hops are carefully selected each year in Europe. Spotted Cow is fermented with a German ale yeast, and the yeast is left in the bottle to enhance the fullness of the flavours, resulting in a naturally cloudy appearance. The beer is described as fun, fruity, and satisfying, with a rich golden-orange colour and a foamy head.
The New Glarus Brewing Company is based in Wisconsin and only distributes within the state, so Spotted Cow is a true local beer. The company is known for its commitment to using only natural ingredients, and Spotted Cow adheres to the Reinheitsgebot purity law, using just four hand-selected ingredients: yeast, hops, water, and malted barley.
Spotted Cow has a loyal following, with some considering it a "holy grail" among beers. It has received mostly positive reviews, with drinkers praising its smooth, malty flavour and fruity undertones. However, some have found it underwhelming, describing it as "average" and noting that it needs better balance.
Overall, Spotted Cow is a beloved Wisconsin beer, with a unique flavour profile and a dedication to quality that has earned it a dedicated fan base.
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Miller Lite, an American lager by Miller Brewing Company
The Miller Brewing Company has a long history in Wisconsin. Founded in 1845 as the Monroe Brewing Company, the company changed hands numerous times before becoming the Miller Brewing Company in 1997. The company now operates breweries in multiple locations and is a subsidiary of Molson Coors Brewing Company.
Miller Lite has a strong following in Wisconsin and is known for its crisp, refreshing taste. It is often enjoyed by those looking for a lighter, more easy-drinking beer option. The lager has a 4.2% ABV and is known for its clear, golden colour. It has a mild, sweet flavour with a hint of malt and a clean, crisp finish.
The beer is brewed with a blend of premium hops and a variety of malted barley. It is fermented at a lower temperature to give it a smoother, less bitter taste. This brewing process also helps to keep the calorie count relatively low, making it a popular choice for those conscious of their calorie intake.
Miller Lite is widely available throughout Wisconsin and is a popular choice for those looking for a refreshing, easy-drinking beer. It is a staple at taverns, restaurants, and breweries across the state and is often the go-to choice for locals and tourists alike. The beer's wide appeal and accessibility have made it an iconic beverage in Wisconsin, and it continues to be a top choice for beer drinkers in the state.
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Moon Man, an American pale ale by New Glarus Brewing Company
Moon Man is an American pale ale by New Glarus Brewing Company, a seriously cool cat that never tries too hard. It's a "no coast" pale ale with a bright, bold blend of five hops that flirt with a smooth malty finish. It's a session beer, brewed to be enjoyed fresh, and is bold and engaging without pretense. In Wisconsin, you don't have to be extreme to be real.
Moon Man is an aromatic beer with a bright hoppy blast. It has a citrusy, resiny, and floral aroma with notes of grapefruit, orange, and pine. Poured, it has a clear, golden colour with a nice foamy head. On the first sip, it's delicious, sessionable, and super tasty. It's well-balanced, smooth, and flavourful, with just the right amount of ABV. It's crisp, fruity, and well-carbonated, with flavours that dance on your tongue.
Moon Man replaced Hop Hearty, New Glarus' IPA, in the 2010 brewing schedule. It's a great beer that fills a gap in the New Glarus lineup, offering an American Pale Ale that is hoppy and drinkable. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a beer that is both refreshing and sessionable, appealing to both beer newbies and enthusiasts.
Moon Man is named after a brewer's cat and is a wonderful example of what a Pale Ale should be. It has a bright golden-straw colour and a fluffy white head. The beer contains a blend of five hops that complement its smooth malty character. It's refreshingly crisp with a nice punch that's not overwhelming. The taste is unique, with a light pale malt body and a light resinous hop character. It excites the senses while retaining an APA approach. It's not too heavy or hoppy, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
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Summer Shandy by Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company
The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company has stayed true to its founder's vision of combining German brewing traditions with the innovative spirit of Wisconsin. The company offers a wide range of German-inspired beers, including shandies, IPAs, weiss beers, bocks, spritzens, and helles. The Leinie Lodge, located in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, is the central hub for Leinenkugel's drinkers, where they can sample new beers, shop for beer gear, and learn about the brewery's 155-year history.
Leinenkugel's has also introduced innovative products such as Leinenkugel's Lakewater Taffy, which combines their Summer Shandy with real lake water from the Great Lakes for a sweet and refreshing taste. This non-alcoholic treat is the perfect way to end a summer day by the lake.
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High Life, an American lager by Miller Brewing Company
Miller Brewing Company has a long history in the world of beer, and its presence in Wisconsin is notable. The company operates breweries in multiple locations and is now a subsidiary of Molson Coors Brewing Company. While they offer a range of beers, High Life holds a special place in the hearts of many Wisconsinites.
High Life, also known as "The Champagne of Beers," is a classic American lager. It has a crisp, smooth taste with a hint of sweetness and a clean finish. The beer is known for its light golden colour and its bubbly, champagne-like carbonation. It has a moderate alcohol content, typically around 4.6% ABV, making it a refreshing choice for many occasions.
The history of High Life in Wisconsin goes back decades. It has been a staple in the state's beer culture and is often associated with the hardworking people of the region. High Life has a reputation for being an affordable, yet high-quality beer, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. It is commonly found in bars, restaurants, and stores across the state.
The beer's popularity in Wisconsin can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the state has a strong brewing heritage, and locals take pride in their local breweries. Secondly, High Life's positioning as a premium yet affordable beer resonates with the pragmatic nature of Wisconsinites. Additionally, the beer's versatility makes it suitable for various palates, from those who prefer a light, easy-drinking lager to those who appreciate a touch of sweetness in their beer.
In conclusion, High Life, an American lager by Miller Brewing Company, holds a special place in the beer culture of Wisconsin. Its widespread availability, affordable price point, and refreshing taste have made it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. As one of the top beers in the state, High Life continues to be a go-to choice for those looking to enjoy a crisp, bubbly lager and be a part of Wisconsin's rich brewing history.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular beers in Wisconsin include Spotted Cow, Miller Lite, Moon Man, and Pabst Blue Ribbon.
Spotted Cow is a cask-conditioned farmhouse ale.
Spotted Cow is brewed by New Glarus Brewing Company, which was founded in 1993 in New Glarus, Wisconsin.
Spotted Cow is only sold in Wisconsin.
Other beers brewed by New Glarus Brewing Company include Moon Man, Two Women, and Totally Naked.