It’s no secret that craft beer companies are thriving. They’re more than just a place to drink beer. They're a destination. They feature local artisans, food trucks, game nights, and live music. They release seasonal brews, offer innovative flavor combinations, and often source local ingredients. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, you’re probably no stranger to the breweries in our community. And even if you aren’t a regular, you’ll likely find that you don’t need to love craft beer to find value in these venues.
Waconia Brewing Company is family-owned and operated and is celebrating its 10-year anniversary later this year. As their motto suggests, approachable beers by approachable people, this brewery is all about customer service and a family-friendly atmosphere. The DeLange family likes to make sure their customers never feel intimidated or overwhelmed by their beer. The staff prides themselves on being knowledgeable and welcoming. There is no dumb question when someone sits down and wants to know more about craft beer. Their goal is to educate and help the patron find their favorite flavor.
WBC’s taproom is home to five flagship beers that have been brewing since the beginning and are always in season. They also rotate 7-10 seasonal brews that complement the calendar. Not into beer? Try their seltzer or a refreshing seltzer slushy for those warmer days.
If you’ve ever visited their space, you’re familiar with their patio during warmer weather and their cozy fireplace for cooler temps. You might also know they partner with various organizations and clubs in the community and provide an opportunity for charitable events. Want to bring the whole crew? Check out their calendar for a Sunday fun day with the family where kids can enjoy their own slushy, root beer, coloring, and games. You’ll also find other events like food trucks, painting, charcuterie boards, and fundraisers that allow you to pair philanthropy with a perfect pour!
Schram Haus Brewery is the result of a successful hobby that originally started at Schram Vineyards. As popular as their wines, the craft brews proved to be standalone champions, and in 2019, they moved into their own establishment in downtown Chaska. This brewery sits on three acres overlooking the Minnesota River Valley. The bluffs create a beautiful backdrop for an outdoor space that hosts two large events each year. You may have just visited in April for their annual GOAT FEST, or you might be familiar with OKTOBIERFEST, held each year in September. If not, add them to your list!
One of the most unique aspects of this brewery is its accessibility to a winery. The connection to their original vineyard home allows head brewmaster Brian VanHout the opportunity to play with equipment and barrels to create small batches with specialty flavors. Think hybrid recipes that combine wine with beer, such as their exclusive rosé-champagne mixed with a lager that’s released on New Year’s.
A love for the local leads the way. Since their intent is to connect with the community, you will find their calendar filled with a variety of events and opportunities to sip, savor, and socialize; trivia nights, bean bag tournaments, painting nights, food trucks, a maker’s market, and of course, live music. There is no shortage of fun or flavor. Schram Haus offers a selection of brews and seltzers that you just won’t find anywhere else. From light to hoppy to dark and fruity. They harvest locally sourced ingredients like plums from abandoned fruit trees in the area, even dandelions in a field nearby!
ENKI Brewery began in what was once the Victoria Creamery. However, it didn’t take long until they outgrew that space and moved just down the street, where they now sit near the shores of Stieger Lake. It’s a renovated warehouse that provides an open atmosphere with an intimate industrial feel. It’s the perfect place for trivia, date night, or a group just looking to unwind from a long day. Its ownership was created out of a passion for the pint and its people. They aim to make good beer and great friends.
ENKI’s offerings are always changing, and their taproom is a spectrum of brews, including light and golden, IPA’s, sours, wheat ale, pilsner, and stout. And if you have an affection for coffee, you might love their popular Mocha Porter, created with cold-press coffee.
This brewery is more than your typical taproom. One of the unique features is their on-site event center. Imagine hosting a business meeting, reception, or family celebration with their handcrafted beers served at your private bar. Big or small, ENKI is a gathering place for friends and family to delight in diverse and delicate flavor profiles.
Discover a new [local] place with your people. Visit Chaska, Victoria, or Waconia and see what sets each one apart. We can assure you that all these breweries tell a unique story, so saddle up and cheerfully enjoy a hoppy taste in a happy place!
Waconia Brewing Co.: https://www.waconiabrewing.com/
Schram Haus Brewing: https://www.schramhausbrewery.com/
ENKI Brewery: https://www.enkibrewing.com/