Maple Island Brewing

 

Really great building, and great location right by the St Croix River. Selection was middling, though, and none of the beers I tried were terribly impressive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New place in Stillwater and they have it going on! Killer vibe and diverse brews. Real nice maple back and their IPA was fantastic. Service was fantastic. No food yet.

If one was to rate this place on scenery alone, it would be a 5. Perfect location and close proximity to the river. Not often you can see a paddle-wheeler pass by while sitting at a bar in a taproom. The building is awesome as well. A couple different patios to sit outdoors if one chooses.. Large parking lot in an otherwise PITA city to find parking.

The beer on the other hand, leaves a bit to be desired. Out of the 10 they had on-tap, I found only two that I would consider drinking repeatedly. Those were the kolsch and the maibock. One I would of spit out if I was outdoors but sitting at the bar I forced myself to swallow and left the rest of the glass full on the bar. There is a good selection of different styles to chose from. With a brewery like Lift Bridge in town, seems like Maple Island will really have to step up their game to have customers return. I will go to Lift Bridge if I find myself in Stillwater and skip this place.

Prices for flights are also a bit out of whack. $10 for a flight of 5?! $20 to try all 10?!! But pint prices seem on par with taproom going rates.

I have heard reports that you cannot ask for a sample without paying for one. That should tell you something about the quality.

 

 

 

 

New brewery in Stillwater MN. The location is great. I happen to stop there on the way home from regularly scheduled meetings i the area and it is close to closing time. The tap room is open and airy. The staff are friendly. The beer is not spectacular but it is tasty. They are still feeling their way. The summer of 2015 should tell the tale. Great outdoor patio overlooking the St Croix River. Plenty of parking.