Trip to IL from MN

[jerpois1970]

Hey guys. I am taking a trip from central MN to Freeport IL the weekend of October 8th. I am looking for some advice from the locals on what we should do while we are there. Already on the list is a stop at New Glarus to take a tour and pick up some beer. We'd also like to hit up a bottle shop or liquor store to pick up some other brews that are not available back in MN. So, suggestions for stores in or around Freeport (within an hours drive) that carry a good selection of craft brews would be appreciated.

Also, if there are any other breweries or even winery's that we shouldn't miss while we are there, let me know.

I'm also open to other suggestions beer related or otherwise.

Thanks!
Jeremy

[Crinkle]

First off, why would anyone in their right mind go to Freeport, IL? (home of the Pretzels!)

When you come down through WI, you could stop at Patosi Brewing Co. in Patosi, they have a brewing museum there (haven't been yet.) If you're that close to Iowa, you should see if you can find some Millstream (stout is great) or Peace Tree Brewing (Double IPA, Hopwrangler IPA.)

East Dubuque, IL has a great liquor store "Family Beer and Liquor" gotta love the name, great beer selection, can make sample packs easily. Alot has been written about Goose Island Brewing out of Chicago, I'm hit and miss with their stuff being any good (mostly miss) but if you want to shell out the big bucks, their Bourbon Stout is supposed to be awesome (you can get at above store too.)

Happy hunting...and drinking.

[crazytwoknobs]

ok, so I'm from Chicago, and I've never had the infamous BCS.

The Goose IPA is great.

The Goose Oatmeal Stout is great.

Two brothers is NOT TO BE MISSED. "Heavy Handed IPA" Just came out last week, and I'm going to have it at my wedding. It's as good as the first year they made it. Anything of theirs is something you should be drinking. Their more bland styles are more bland. DO NOT MISS "Resistance IPA".

Three Floyds is great. Most anything they make is worth picking up if it's not been on the shelf for a year.

Metropolitan brewing is also good, but they do lagers mostly.

Half Acre is decent.

Past that, you're on your own.

[crazytwoknobs]

Just had a look at where Freeport, IL is. You're screwed. It's going to be the same as MN.