Ranking Minnesota's Breweries

This is exactly I rarely stop at Bauhaus anymore. I love the space, the beers are solid, but there are only the 4 main beers on tap, and maybe 1 special tap if you're lucky...everytime I go there.

 

I have to agree .. easily one of the best spaces anywhere, great people and branding but lack of new beers stops me going back much . Surly had 21 beers on tap this weekend and Bad Weather had 10 so I tend to gravitate to them a lot more.

Speaking of German Lagers won't the revamped Yeorg brewing be out this summer if Blackstackbrew can get there brewery finished and taproom open . https://m.facebook.com/Yoergbeer/

 

Really? People actually like Hayes!? We've only been there once, over a year ago. But three of the four beers we tried were badly infected. I shudder to even think of it. But it sounds like maybe they've worked out their problems? I'm sceptical, but I suppose we'll have to give them another chance.

This matches my experience too. The first two times I went, I thought their beer was average, and a bit overpriced. But the last time I was in St. Cloud, I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was.

 

Reportedly, they are expanding the taps a bit, and going to do some brewery only releases. So the tap list should get more interesting in the future.

 

I get both sides of it. Having just the core four and their seasonal (with occasional casks) does limit them some, but I also really like their beers and a lot of times when I go out I want to have what I know. Hopefully with their added capacity they'll start to mix in some stuff here and there. Especially new breweries I get nervous when they have just a ton of beers right off the bat. I don't see how they can really nail down their recipes when they are spread like that. Rather they do smaller number of beers and knock them out, then look to expand. Surly is a different animal but 21 taps is a bit ridiculous to me. it starts to get like the Cheesecake Factory. Just a huge menu that I get tired of going through it all and get the basic thing anyways.

 

The first time I got out there was just after Thanksgiving this year, so I cannot speak of past issues. Since then we have made the trip out there 4 times, and we have seen no problems. I would for sure give it another go if you happen to be in the area.

 

I visited Ballast Point a little over a year ago and they had 70 taps of their own beer. There were a few repeats, but the vast majority were unique.

 

You missed Surly ?!?

 

So, I went to Able yesterday afternoon and really enjoyed myself. The space is very nice, as is the staff. I thought all of the beers, except for the Pale Wheat, were pretty solid. The stout was by far the best IMO. As for the IPA, I did order a pint as you suggested and I do agree that I didn't fully get into the beer until about half way through. Overall, I think they did a nice job with it, but it's a little too grassy for my liking. I prefer my IPA's to be citrus/fruit forward, this was grassy with citrus undertones. The red ale and pub ale were very balanced and easy drinking. I am not sure what went wrong with the Pale Wheat, but it was just awful. Also tried the infused version, which was equally as bad. That being said, I will definitely be going back. That stout is off the chains!

 

No growler sales. This was a requirement to make the list.

 

BLK WLF from Able is delicious

 

Reading is FUNdamental!

 

Probably why Summit isn't on the list too. Makes sense now. Thanks.