5 Best Minnesota Beers to Launch You Into Summer

It's the time of year when many Minnesotans can joyfully shed their hats and coats to frolic in the warm weather!

It’s also the time when beer lovers want to explore the latest and greatest from local breweries. So, whether you're a beer enthusiast or just like to enjoy a cold one on a hot day, you’ve come to the right place. 

In this post, we’ve composed a list of 5 Minnesota beers to try this summer. We’ve included our tasting notes, food pairing ideas, and callouts to local breweries. As you explore these brews, we hope you discover a new favorite and support a local brewery!

1. Fulton Brewing: 300 Mosaic IPA 

This beer is truly an explosion of flavor! It has strong juicy and tropical fruit flavors and aromas. It’s an excellent IPA to have on hand for grilling and BBQs. 300 Mosaic pairs well with sour or slightly acidic foods think tangy mustard seed or salty coleslaw. Head over to Fulton Brewing Taproom for a pint or two of this delicious IPA.

2. Waconia Brewing: Cookies & Creme 

Who said ice cream is just for kids? Waconia Brewing took this delicious dessert and turned it into a smooth and creamy milk stout. It has strong flavors of chocolate cookies and sweet cream. After a hot day outside, cool off with a Cookies & Creme milk stout! Keep the sweet train rolling as this pairs great with s’mores around a fire!

3. Summit Brewing Co: Cabin Crusher Kolsch-style

Cabin Crusher is an easy-drinking beer that has a subtle sour lemon flavor, making it a perfect beer when you want to relax on a hot day by the pool or on the lake. This beer pairs with all types of food but goes exceptionally well with grilled chicken and summer salads. You can familiarize yourself with Summit Brewing at their taproom in St. Paul.

4. Bauhaus Brew Labs: Wonderstuff

Bauhaus describes Wonderstuff to have a “... clean, balanced flavor, one you'd expect from a Bohemian Style Pilsner, but with a powerful, citrus hop twist. Truly the stuff of wonder, this beer will change the way you think about light lagers.” Paired with tangy Korean-styled chicken wings, you will be in summertime heaven. The smooth, clean texture of the Pilsner contrasts brilliantly with this sticky sweet chicken wing.  

5. Indeed Brewing Company: Mexican Honey Light Draft Ale

The Mexican Honey Light Draft Ale from Indeed Brewing retains a crisp honey taste with a light sweetness that's balanced with a mild citrusy hop. It's perfect for summer days and sunny patios. As for food pairings, go with spicy dishes like Mexican Street Tacos. You can find this beer at Indeed’s Northeast Minneapolis brewery.

If you’re not so into the brewery scene but still want to sip on these delicious brews, Haskells has you covered. And if beer just isn't your thing, we don't judge: check out some of our favorite local wine picks! Stop by and we will be sure to fill your fridge with these summertime favorites!

There you have it, five delicious and refreshing beers to enjoy this summer. We hope this list encourages you to get out and discover your newest brew of choice. You’ll be supporting local businesses and indulging in some of the tastiest brews crafted in Minnesota. Whether it’s a cookies and creme Milk Stout, a citrusy Kolsch, or a juicy IPA, there is something for every beer lover!