“Something that’s always a mainstay here in Madison and Wisconsin in general is our craft breweries and distilleries,” said Rob Guard, senior manager, PR and communications of the Greater Madison CVB.
“Our brewing tradition is such a part of who we are," he added.
Indeed, anyone seeking a local take on craft spirits will find not only a tremendous range of offerings in and around Madison but distinctive venues for downtime adventures and group dining.
The Lone Girl Brewing Company in Waunakee, which bills its brews as “Craft beers that are unique but approachable for all,” invites anyone who is curious to learn about all components of the brewing process. The full-service tap room and farm-to-table restaurant can be booked for groups between 12 and 70.
Five miles south of Madison, Verona’s Wisconsin Brewing Company was started by Wisconsin natives Carl and Mark Nolen along with Brewmaster Kirby Nelson. Though the brewery does not have food service, it does have dedicated event space both indoors and outdoors.
Wollersheim Winery and Distillery in Prairie du Sac offers public events, tastings and tours of its estate, which has been in operation since the mid-1800s.
J. Henry & Sons offers by-appointment tours and tastings of their fine spirits for groups from two to 30. Groups of 10 or more have the option of pairing their tour with the distillery’s associated caterer.
Founded in 2010 in Madison by a University of Wisconsin graduate, Old Sugar Distillery is a labor of love to the city where it lives and has integrated important sustainability features like solar panels and domestically manufactured glass. The tasting room can be reserved for smaller groups.
With personality to spare, New Glarus Brewing offers tours, tastings and a gift shop for beer enthusiasts.