Minnesota Beers: Discovering the Best Brews of the Land of 10,000 Lakes

Minnesota’s craft beer scene is diverse and vibrant, with breweries across the state producing outstanding beers that showcase a range of styles and flavors.

From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, Minnesota offers something for every beer enthusiast.

Here are ten of the best Minnesota beers you absolutely must try.

1. Surly Brewing Co.’s “Furious”

Surly Brewing Co.’s Furious is a flagship American IPA known for its bold hop character and balanced bitterness.

• Style: American IPA
• ABV: 6.2%
• Description: Bold and hoppy with flavors of grapefruit, pine, and a smooth malt backbone.

2. Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s “Paddle Break”

Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s Paddle Break is a well-crafted pale ale with a refreshing and balanced taste.

• Style: Pale Ale
• ABV: 5.2%
• Description: Crisp and balanced with flavors of citrus, pine, and a smooth malt finish.

3. Summit Brewing Co.’s “Saga IPA”

Summit Brewing Co.’s Saga IPA is a popular IPA that offers a robust hop profile with a smooth finish.

• Style: IPA
• ABV: 6.2%
• Description: Hoppy and aromatic with notes of tropical fruit, pine, and a touch of caramel.

4. Indeed Brewing Co.’s “Day Tripper”

Indeed Brewing Co.’s Day Tripper is a session IPA that’s easy-drinking and full of flavor.

• Style: Session IPA
• ABV: 4.0%
• Description: Juicy and hoppy with flavors of citrus, pine, and a refreshing finish.

5. Lakefront Brewery’s “New Grist”

Lakefront Brewery’s New Grist is a unique gluten-free beer with a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Style: Gluten-Free Beer
• ABV: 5.0%
• Description: Light and crisp with flavors of citrus, herbal hops, and a touch of malt sweetness.

6. Modist Brewing Co.’s “Dreamyard”

Modist Brewing Co.’s Dreamyard is a New England IPA known for its hazy appearance and juicy flavor profile.

• Style: New England IPA
• ABV: 6.5%
• Description: Juicy and hazy with notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and a smooth malt finish.

7. Bad Weather Brewing Co.’s “Saison”

Bad Weather Brewing Co.’s Saison is a well-crafted farmhouse ale with a refreshing and complex character.

• Style: Saison
• ABV: 5.6%
• Description: Dry and spicy with flavors of pepper, citrus, and a hint of farmhouse funk.

8. Bauhaus Brew Labs’ “Wonderstuff”

Bauhaus Brew Labs’ Wonderstuff is a crisp and flavorful German-style pilsner.

• Style: German Pilsner
• ABV: 5.2%
• Description: Crisp and clean with flavors of herbal hops, biscuit malt, and a refreshing finish.

9. Castle Danger Brewery’s “Cream Ale”

Castle Danger Brewery’s Cream Ale is a smooth and creamy ale with a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Style: Cream Ale
• ABV: 5.0%
• Description: Smooth and creamy with notes of caramel, toasted malt, and a touch of hops.

10. Wrecking Bar Brewpub’s “Blackberry Farmhouse Ale”

Wrecking Bar Brewpub’s Blackberry Farmhouse Ale is a unique fruit-infused farmhouse ale with a refreshing taste.

• Style: Fruit Farmhouse Ale
• ABV: 6.0%
• Description: Fruity and tart with flavors of fresh blackberries and a touch of farmhouse yeast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the flagship beer of Surly Brewing Co.?
Answer: Surly Brewing Co.’s Furious is a bold American IPA known for its hop-forward character and balanced bitterness.

What makes Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s Paddle Break a popular choice?
Answer: Paddle Break is known for its refreshing and balanced taste, with flavors of citrus, pine, and a smooth malt finish.

What are the key characteristics of Summit Brewing Co.’s Saga IPA?
Answer: Saga IPA offers a robust hop profile with notes of tropical fruit, pine, and a touch of caramel.

What distinguishes Indeed Brewing Co.’s Day Tripper?
Answer: Day Tripper is a session IPA that’s easy-drinking with juicy, hoppy flavors of citrus and pine.

What is special about Modist Brewing Co.’s Dreamyard?
Answer: Dreamyard is a New England IPA known for its hazy appearance and juicy flavor profile with notes of tropical fruit and citrus.

Summary

Minnesota’s craft beer scene is vibrant and diverse, with breweries across the state producing a wide range of exceptional brews.

These top picks represent some of the best beers Minnesota has to offer, reflecting its rich brewing traditions and innovative spirit.

Enjoy exploring the flavorful world of Minnesota’s craft beer!