The Taste Test: Hazy IPA

The Growler’s editorial staff partnered with official BJCP judges in a blind tasting to determine the best Hazy IPAs in Minnesota. The results may surprise you.

5 Minnesota brewers proving root beer is craft, too

Brewers across the state take pride in crafting drinks that are innovative and refreshing—and that includes root beer. Root beer not only provides a non-alcoholic option at local taprooms, but it also allows brewers to experiment with flavors through handcrafted sodas. “Much like the craft beer scene, it’s been fun to watch and sample and … [ Read more]

Taking center stage: The beer revival in middle Minnesota

Breweries in the heart of Minnesota are popping up faster than holiday décor in big-box stores, but do they have what it takes to make it long-term? You probably have a mental image of what an outstate Minnesota beer drinker looks like. It’s a guy. He’s middle-aged, a little paunchy, wearing a jacket with his … [ Read more]

Breweries Boom in Greater Minnesota

If there are two things craft breweries in greater Minnesota have proven, it’s that there is no such thing as a “typical” craft-beer drinker, and demand for new and interesting beers doesn’t stop at the 694–494 loop. “Customers just blow stereotypes out of the water,” said Bemidji Brewing Company Head Brewer Tom Hill. “We’ll have … [ Read more]

Now Open: Big Axe Brewing

Quick, what comes to mind when you hear the words, “Brainerd, Minnesota?” Fishing? Resorts? Golf? If Chris French, owner and head brewer at Big Axe Brewing Company, which is located just north of Brainerd in Nisswa, has anything to say about it, “craft beer” will soon be joining that list. “The area’s really evolving,” said … [ Read more]