Dave's BrewFarm - A Farmhouse Brewery

JAN Open Tap Room Hours

2012-01-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Upcoming Tap Room open hours for JAN: Saturday the 7th we'll be open 2-6 (note the time shift, for this day only) and the 8th from 3-7. Also, JAN 14 & 15th from 3-7. The next opens will not be until FEB 11 & 12 (Bring your sweetie for some tasty pre-V-day beers!)

Pre-Party NYE at the BrewFarm!

2011-12-28T09:02:00.000-08:00

Looking for a place to begin your NYE festivities? Join the BrewFarmer's NYE Pre-Party DEC 31! The LaBrewatory beers will be flowing from 3-7, with a nice selection of liter take-aways for later in the evening. Hope to see all you BFFs as we ring in the New Year.

December Open Tap Room Schedule

2011-12-12T08:18:00.000-08:00

Looking for something fun, tasty and unique to do this holiday season? We'll be open this upcoming SAT/SUN DEC 17 & 18 and then FRI (new!) DEC 23 & 24 and DEC 31 (but not SUN the 1st). Open hours are 3-7:00 each of those days. Bring those out-of-town beer lovin' friends and family and snacks to keep the fire burning. Happy holidays from the BrewFarmers - putting the Beer in Christmas since 2009!

Next open and potential additional DEC open dates

2011-12-06T09:03:00.001-08:00

For all you planners, the next open Tap Room

weekend is DEC 17 & 18, 3-7 pm.

With the holidays coming up, we're "trial balloning" some additional open dates: FRI (yes, Friday!) DEC 23, DEC 24, DEC 31, JAN 1 2012. The usual hours of 3-7:00 for those dates as well.

Also, I'd be "open" to liter takeaway sales by appointment.

Let the feedback begin!

"Prey" for good weather - open Tap Room weekend

2011-11-29T08:20:00.001-08:00

Join the BrewFarmers and their fine feathered friends this weekend for another LaBrewatory open Tap Room. We'll be open DEC 3 & 4 from 3-7:00 each day and have at least eight unique beers on draft. Perhaps our "death from above" predators will be around for you to enjoy - they're quite the sight. Per usual, bring snacks, your grill/grillables and whatnot to make the most of your trip to the BrewFarm.

Final November Tap Room Weekend

2011-11-17T06:49:00.001-08:00

Ack, sorry on the late post but we're gearing up for the November finale of open Tap Room hours this weekend (19 & 20) from 3-7:00 each day. Days are getting shorter, Saturday's weather looks to be potentially craptastic and cold is the new norm. All that doom-n-gloom can be solved with a trip to the BrewFarm! Bring hot-n-spicy snacks to ward off the chill while you enjoy some tasty LaBrewatory treats.

Looking for Some November Love - Open Tap Room Weekend

2011-11-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Can anyone think of a better way to welcome November into 2011 than with an open Tap Room weekend at the BrewFarm? We'll be open this SAT/SUN (5&6th) from 3-7 each day - bring snacks, grills, what-have-you to make for a lovely way to wile away a Fall afternoon.

Sunday (10/23) ONLY Tap Room Hours

2011-10-19T07:23:00.000-07:00

The LaBrewatory will be open this Sunday 10/23 from 3-7 (we have a private event on SAT). Come on out and enjoy some tasty treats from the draft tower.

Fantabulous Fall Open Tap Room Hours

2011-10-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Looking for a Peak Experience this weekend? Yup, the LaBrewatory will be open this weekend (10/8-9) from 3-7 each day. The Fall colors are near or at peak and what better way to celebrate the season than with some tasty BrewFarm beers. Bring snacks, your grill and hang out for a spell, and soak in the beauty.

Some BrewFarm PSAs if you're coming out...

2011-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

* The bridge is still out on Hwy 128 - follow this easy detour. You'll come to the stop sign on Hwy's 128 & 12, take a right (east), go one mile to Wilson (first left / north), cross the train tracks (look both ways!) and continue straight (north) for 1.5 miles (the major road Cty W goes to the right but don't go to the right - straight ahead! And mind the dip in the road. No, not me...) and we're on the right (you know, the one with the wind generator).

** Park on the BrewFarm lot around the perimeter until it's full and then it's best to park on 80th Ave. (east/west road) as parking on Wilson St. is potentially hazardous due to limited sightlines.

*** We're cash-only.

**** The colors are starting to pop, though still a couple weeks from peak.

***** See ya soon!

So Long September!

2011-09-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's open Tap Room weekend! We'll be open this SAT/SUN (24&25th) from 3-7:00 each day. Appears it's gonna be a most excellent weekend of beer drinking weather, so bring snacks, a picnic or your grill for a complete good time. Bound to be some new and tasty LaBrewatory creations on tap - see ya!

Open Tap Room Hours 9/10-11

2011-09-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

We'll be holding open Tap Room hours this weekend (9/10-11) from 3-7 each day. Looks to be gorgeous weekend weather ahead - may even be a bit "chili" (sorry...). Come on out, bring some snacks and enjoy the latest LaBrewatory creations.

Open LaBrewatory hours this weekend (8/27-28)

2011-08-24T08:42:00.001-07:00

Quick note: The LaBrewatory will be open this weekend (8/27-28) from 3-7 each day. More info to come (gonna be a busy weekend!).

Tap Tap Tap Room Hours! - AUG 6-7

2011-08-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

After the past few weekends of private events, we're throwing open the Tap Room doors this weekend (AUG 6-7) from 3-7 each day. More than likely, there'll been something new (24K Saison?!?) on the draft tower. Stop on by, bring snacks, a picnic or your own grill to make a day of it.

Bee HERE! Open Tap Room Hours - 7/9-10

2011-07-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

The ONLY Open Tap Room hours of July are this weekend (7/9-10) from 3-7:00 each day. Stay tuned for this weekend's tap line-up. There's sure to be something new, something tasty and...

Beer at the End of the 'Bow - Open Tap Room Weekend 6/25-26

2011-06-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Wooo, it's open Tap Room this weekend! If you're coming out SAT 6/25, later in the afternoon we'll have a large group of Morris Dancers stopping by to dance and enjoy some general merriment. Early weather report looks to be peachy. And given the potential crowd, you may want to bring your own chairs like "P&G" did (as in Paul Wakeen and Greg Tellijohn - we've got Norms!!!)

Red Sky at Night, Beer Drinker's Delight - Open Tap Room Hours

2011-06-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

Heatwave aside, this weekend looks to be peachy, especially when there's beer drinking involved. To celebrate, we're having open Tap Room hours this weekend (6/11-12) from 3-7:00 each day. Bring snacks, grills, "picnicables" and hang out for a spell. Hope to see ya!

Memorial Day Weekend Open Tap Room Hours

2011-05-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

We'll be open the SAT/SUN of Memorial Day weekend (5/28-29) from 3-7:00 each day. Things green have exploded around here, the hops are hopping and the "manicured lawn nemesis" has made it into the brew kettle. Bring all your beer lovin' friends and relatives who are in town for the weekend for some great beers. Bring your grill/grillables, picnic snacks and make a day of it! See you!

LaBrewatory Open Tap Room Hours & New Bee Petting Zoo!

2011-05-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

The LaBrewatory will be open this weekend (5/14-15) from 3-7:00 each day. Come on out and sample the latest brews and pet the honeybees! Or the puppies, who are becoming less puppy-like and more like *real* dogs. (Big Sob - they grow-up so quick...) Hope you can make it out!

AprilWrap and MayDay Tap Room Open Hours

2011-04-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

We'll be holding open Tap Room hours this weekend (4/30-5/1) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out, sample some of the LaBrewatory's latest creations and see the "Eternal Flame" (well, that was a few mornings ago but was pretty cool...). Bring your umbrellas and wellies to keep the rains away! And meet the new "Bee(r)Farmers" our Italian honeybees.

April Showers and Open Tap Room Hours

2011-04-06T06:02:00.000-07:00

Good morning BFFs: it's open Tap Room hours this weekend (APR 9 & 10) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Snow's mostly gone, Spring rains are washing away the muck and creatures are stirring. And the beers will be a-flowin'! Puppies will be available on a first-come, first pet basis... See ya!

Beer or Puppies? Puppies or Beer? Open Tap Room Hours 3/26 & 27

2011-03-23T06:18:00.000-07:00

Why choose one when when you can have both! Yup, we're having open Tap Room hours this weekend (3/26 & 27) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out and watch Scamp grow before your very eyes - it is amazing!

Meet the new BrewFarmers + Open Tap Room hours 3/12&13

2011-03-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

A weekend of beer and puppies! The BrewFarm Pack grew by two - come on out and meet Scamp and Mocha Diablo (he really is a chocolate devil-dog...) and sample some tasty BrewFarm beers.
It's an open Tap Room weekend - 3/12&13 from 3:00-7:00 each day. Fun will be had by all! (Well, Potatoe may not think so...)

A Fond Farewell to February: Open Tap Room Hours!

2011-02-23T09:28:00.000-08:00

The LaBrewatory will be open this weekend (2/26&27) from 3-7 each day. We'll be ready for you with your tasty favorites and new creations to sample. Gonna be chilly but with lots of snow, bring your outdoor gear to "earn those beers!" Will try and post what's on later in the week. Hope to see ya!

Pre-Romance is in the Air - Open Tap Room Hours 2/12&13

2011-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

What could be more "pre-romantic" than coming out to the BrewFarm this weekend? The LaBrewatory will be open from 3:00-7:00 each day (2/12&13) and we'll be slingin' beers that'll make any boy or girl swoon with delight. And be sure to pick-up a dozen Select man flowers packed in a convenient carry case for the hard-to-buy-for guy in your life!

Game? What game??? Open Tap Room Hours FEB 5&6

2011-02-01T16:46:00.000-08:00

FarmerD is gettin' a jump on announcing open Tap Room hours for this weekend (2/5&6). SAT we'll be open from 3-7 and yes, it's someone's B-day, so bring your A-game for some major candle blowing. Evidently, there's some "game" on SUN, so hours will be from 1-4 so you can get your BrewFarm on B4 the best advertising of the year is aired. C-U!

2, 2, 2-in-a-Row: Open Tap Room hours!

2011-01-12T16:01:00.000-08:00

Late (for me...) posting of upcoming open Tap Room hours this weekend (1/15&16) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out early on SAT and get yer flight in before the big Pack-o-Rama game @ 7:00. See ya soonly!

Happy New Beers! Open Tap Room.

2011-01-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

It's time for the 2011 inaugural open Tap Room hours! Yes, this weekend (1-8/9) we'll be open from 3:00-7:00 each day. Weather *may* cooperate. Will post what's pouring later in the week. Hope to see ya'll this weekend!

Closed, Part II

2010-12-12T11:25:00.000-08:00

The LaBrewatory is once again closed (SUN 12/12) due to gnarly winter weather. Stay warm-n-snug and enjoy Mother's work!

Snow CLOSED!

2010-12-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry to say but the BrewFarm is closed today 12/11 and more than like closed tomorrow 12/12 as well. It's nearing a foot on the ground already with more on the way. And the wind... (it's great for making the kWhs though!). Will keep all posted.

Update for SAT/SUN 11-12

2010-12-10T11:46:00.001-08:00

For those contemplating coming out to the BrewFarm this weekend, the looming snow storm *may* require us to cancel at least SAT's open Tap Room hours (starting FRI through SAT they're predicting 9-15 inches, with gusts SAT night up 30+ mph - and up here it'll be howling more than that!). Putting this out there for planning - will post tomorrow a.m. when it's reality.

LaBrewatory Open Hours 12/11-12

2010-12-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Yuppers, we're gonna throw open the LaBrewatory this weekend 12/11-12 from 3:00-7:00 each day. Gonna be the the last open of the month (crazy busy the following weekends). Weather's looking fair to partly snowy with a chance (a really good chance, at that...) of really tasty beers. Hope you can make it out and say Hi to some of our woodland friends!

December 4-5 Tap Room Hours

2010-12-01T08:27:00.000-08:00

In celebration of "meteorological winter" beginning today, we'll be having open Tap Room hours this weekend (12/4-5) from 3:00-7:00 each day. We've also begun filling our 1-liter swing-top "growlers" but would like to know what people would like in them - votes??? Hope you can make it out!

T-day Reminder - LaBrewatory Open Hours

2010-11-25T08:02:00.000-08:00

T-day weekend reminder: The LaBrewatory will be open SAT/SUN (11/27-28) each day from 3:00-7:00. The weather looks to be peachy both days and we'll have a selection of tasty new creations going on draft. Bring out yer beer-lovin' friends and family for a convivial afternoon of great beers and company.

Some fresh "ink" for the BrewFarm

2010-11-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

Nice write-up by James Norton and photos by his wife Becca Dilley of Heavytable.com:
http://heavytable.com/daves-brewfarm-in-wilson-wi/
(It's always a bit surreal when you check out a web site and BAM! there you are...)

Cheers!

Upcoming Open Hours @ The LaBrewatory

2010-11-17T15:36:00.000-08:00

Breaking News! (well, not that breaking but a li'l drama never hurt...): We're having open LaBrewatory hours this weekend (11/20-21) AND T-giving weekend (11/27-28) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Got some beer lovin' friends or relatives rolling in for the weekend? Bring 'em on out to the BrewFarm for some tasty, non-turkey treats.
We'll be tapping "The Bruiser" starting 11/27 (though it'll hit prime in about two months) cuz that's the way we tap around here! Probably a few other newbies making their "faucet-release" debut as well. Mmmm, beer....

Sunday Open hours???

2010-11-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

Anyone interested in coming out to the BrewFarm today (SUN 14th)? Frankly, it's not much better, weatherwise, than yesterday. I imagine the major roads are OK but the roads around here are sloppy/slippery/crappy. And the driveway here is not an option unless you've got 4x4... If anyone is game, we'll be open 3:00-7:00. Be Safe!!!

Late notice: weather cancels SAT open hours.

2010-11-13T09:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry this is late and may not get to some people but this winter storm is bad and will be throughout the day (SAT 13th). We feel it's better to cancel the open hours for today (and possibly SUN) in the interest of safety, as we like our fans to come and go in once piece safely when visiting the BrewFarm. Will post tomorrow (SUN 14th) as to whether or not we're open. Thanks for understanding!

With Less Daylight, More Beer! Open Hours.

2010-11-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

The BrewFarm Tap Room dry spell is nearing its end: we'll be open this weekend (11/13-14) from 3:00-7:00 each day. And since daylight is dwindling at an alarming pace, you'll be able to see Luna and have a beer with the Milky Way. Or, if the Weather Wizards are anywhere near accurate, you'll see some snow... Either way, hope to see you here!

October 23 & 24 Open Tap Room Hours

2010-10-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

With the tipping point of the workweek nearly reached, we'd like to announce open Tap Room hours at the BrewFarm this weekend (10/23&24) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Lots going on this weekend but if you're looking for some laid-back, "curious" beers to enjoy (BrewFarm Breakfast Lager for example...) the BrewFarm is the place to be. Bring the kids, (well-behaved) dogs, snacks, picnic goodies, etc. (Note: the colors in the picture are loooong gone - but it's still beautiful out here!)

They say it's your Beerthday!

2010-10-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

It's Beerthday Weekend! And what better way to celebrate than to have open hours in the LaBrewatory's Tap Room. Yup, this SAT/SUN (9/10) we'll be open from 3:00-7:00 each day. Stay tuned for the what's-on-tap list - growing older never tasted this good! Come on out and see the fading colors and enjoy some tasty beers.

2010-09-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

Leaf Peepers + Beer Drinkers = Open Tap Room this weekend

2010-09-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

The colors are a-poppin' and the beers are a-flowin' = open Tap Room hours this weekend (9/25-26) from 3:00-7:00 each day. As we'll be pouring at the Autumn Brew Review in Minneapolis the following weekend (10/2), this weekend will be "it" for a spell. Lots of new beers on the draft menu - come on out and play!

Sunday ONLY open Tasting Room Hours

2010-09-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

The BrewFarm will be having open Tap Room hours this Sunday (9/19) ONLY from 3:00-7:00. (Saturday has a prior engagement...). Some new saisons coming on plus a new hybrid - tasty LaBrewatory treats!

Got Labor?!? Open Tap Room Hours!

2010-09-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

See Jake. See Jake labor. Taste the fruits of Jake's labor this weekend as we'll be holding open Tap Room hours this Labor Day weekend SAT/SUN (but not MON) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out and throw a tailgater, picnic or just enjoy some fresh beers on the deck.

Gettin' ready for Fall - Open Tap Room hours (8/28-29)

2010-08-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Feeling parched? After a long dry-spell, the LaBrewatory will be having Open Hours this weekend (AUG 28-29) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out and see the giant hop cone - only one hop needed per batch - it'll revolutionize brewing as we know it! Hope to see ya this weekend - the weather's looking mighty fine for some BrewFarm R&R (or R&D - Rest & Drinking...).

It's a Mad, Mad, Beery Weekend!

2010-08-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Team BrewFarm is MadTown ready! Swing by the Old Fashioned in Madison, WI tonight from 5-8 for some Brewfarm Select and Matacabras to warm-up for tomorrow's Great Taste beer-a-thon. Saturday will hold many tasty LaBrewatory treats - we're in booth 510, so stop on by and see what we've got!

Thistle this! And open hours...

2010-07-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

The BrewFarm will be having open hours this SAT/SUN (7/31,8/1) from 3:00-7:00 each day. SAT has a good chance a group of Morris dancers making the scene around 4:30. Weather's looking stellar for some beer drinking fun.
We won't be open for the next three weekends due to the Great Taste (woo!) and private events. Hope ya'll can make it out!

Open Tap Room hours this Weekend 7/24-25

2010-07-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Who wants to come out and play this weekend? The LaBrewatory's Tap Room will be open SAT/SUN (24/25th) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Check out our new bumblebee petting zoo! And try "Bumbled" (FIRE BEE!! that didn't repeat its prior smoky "ooops") a tasty Strong Ale.

Open Tap Room hours this Weekend 7/10-11

2010-07-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

The LaBrewatory will be having open Tap Room hours this weekend (7/10-11) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Come on out and meet our newest neighbor, "Cutie Cow Boots" - drop me a note if you need directions or more info. Hope to see ya'll!

1st Annual BrewFarm Invitational Overnight Classic

2010-06-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

You Are Invited. . .

to join us for the 1st Annual BrewFarm Invitational

Overnight Classic, a two-day extravaganza of biking,

camping, eating, beer, family and fun. Riders leave from

Hiawatha Cyclery and wend their way to Wilson. Families

arrive by car. Everyone brings a potluck dish and

BrewFarmer Dave will be providing a main dish for

carnivores and vegetarians alike. Oh, and beer.

Email Lanny at lannyhoff@gmail.com for more information

or to reserve your space.

What: A road ride of approximately 70 miles from Minneapolis to The BrewFarm + Camping + Beer + Food

When: June 26-27, 2010

Where: Starts at Hiawatha Cyclery

Time: Ride Leaves 8 AM
Other: Cost with Beer: $20. Without $10. Camping is free, so are kids. Limited to 25 riders.

Best. Father's Day. Ever.

2010-06-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Stumped on what to do this upcoming Pop's Day? The BrewFarm will be having open Tap Room hours June 20 from 3:00-7:00 - bring Dad out to the scenic WI countryside for some tasty BrewFarm selections. And if you can't make it out to the BrewFarm, pick him up a dozen man flowers packed in this convenient vase!

Last minute

2010-06-10T16:46:00.000-07:00

Quick note: the LaBrewatory will be having open hours this weekend (6.12 & 6.13) from 3:00-7:00 each day.
Remember: red sky at night, beer drinker's delight!

Hangin' with the Hummies

2010-06-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

Come on out this weekend and mingle with our resident hummingbirds - they are SO funny and full of personality. Plus, they really like to party!
We're having Open Tap Room hours 6/5 & 6/6 from 3:00 - 7:00 each day. Get a hold of some Saison Dandy or the Wee Wheatless Wonder - sure to please and intrigue one's palette. Hope to see you!

Open Tap Room hours this Memorial Weekend

2010-05-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

Got plans for this Memorial weekend? Now you do - Open Tap Room hours! We're going to be open this SAT & SUN from 3:00-7:00 each day. The fine folk at weather.gov are predicting sunny and upper 70s - perfect for some BrewFarm fermented fun. A few new offerings: Wee Wheatless Wonder and Saison Dandy.

Spring has been superbusy at the BrewFarm: the hops are jumping (you can practically hear them grow) and a bunch on new raised bed gardens are going in.

The dairy farmers who lease some of our land are putting in corn for their cows. I need a BIG tractor....

Hope to see you this weekend - bring those beer-loving relatives and friends out for the BrewFarm Experience!

Yee & Haw, it's Open Tap Room this weekend!

2010-05-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

Dang, it's been a spell since we last threw the doors to the LaBrewatory's Tap Room, so clear your weekend (well, at least a few hours...) and stop on out for some fresh country air, green things a-poppin' everywhere and some tasty beers. Per usual, it's this May 15& 16th from 3:00-7:00 each day and I've heard rumors of decent, deck lounging weather. Rumors...
Hope we can see you this weekend! (cash only please...)

Harukaze

2010-03-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

Come one, come all to this weekend's open hours at the BrewFarm Tap Room, 3/27-28 from 3:00-7:00 each day. Try our new Spring offering, "Harukaze" which is Japanese for "Spring wind" which we have in abundance. Harukaze is a gruit ale, which is an ancient "style" brewed primarily with herbs and spices. It's refreshing, spry and dry - hope to see you here! (cash only, please)

Celebration of The Muds

2010-03-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

If the fog ever lifts, you'll be able to see the annual Spring "Rite of The Muds" when you come out for Open Hours at the LaBrewatory this weekend, (3/13-14) from 3:00-7:00 each day. Enjoy the technicolor of The Muds as well as the variety of tasty BrewFarm offerings on tap. Hope to see you this weekend!

A Farewell to February

2010-02-22T15:27:00.001-08:00

Open Tap Room hours at the BrewFarm's LaBrewatory this weekend, 2/27&28 from 3:00-7:00 each day. Sample old favorites, or make some of the ongoing "experiments" you new best friend. Six-packs of Matacabras are in stock as well - get yerself some Goat Killer today!

Happy One-Year Anniversary Jake!

2010-02-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

A year ago today, "Jake," our 20 kW wind generator went "on-line" and began producing electricity for the BrewFarm. To date, he's produced 12,944 kWhs (a bit behind estimated output - but he's still breaking-in and the winds have been less-than-normal). When he is cranking, it pays nicely: our electric bill for last month was $.81 - yup 81 cents, with everything powered by electricity (except our gas range - just love cookin' with gas...).

Join us this weekend as we celebrate his one-year anniversary!

What could be more Romantic?!?

2010-02-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

Wondering what to do this Hallmark / Cupid's Playground weekend?

Why not give your loved one the gift of a drive out to the country with a stop at the BrewFarm? We're having open LaBrewatory Tap Room hours this weekend, 2/13&14 from 3-7 each day. Which leaves plenty of time afterwards for that romantic dinner at White Castle...

Remember fellows: give her the beers she's always dreamed of: Mocha Diablo, McAnderNook, AuBEXXX, Dichotomy and other tasty treats.

Pre-Stupor Bowl Open Tap Room hours at the BrewFarm!

2010-02-05T07:46:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Sat. 2/6 from 3-7:00 p.m. Stop in to sample some old favorites and a few new experiments from the LaBrewatory: Mocha Diablo - a pepper stout and a hybrid ale/lager with a healthy dollop of hops - which needs a name. Hope to see you out here and help name the "hoppy lager" - get your Stupor on!

Crappy Weather and Most Excellent Beers

2010-01-22T14:46:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, 1/23 from 1:00-6:00, the LaBrewatory will open the doors and beer will flow. But there's this:

Saturday: Rain or freezing rain, becoming all rain after noon. High near 36. Breezy, with a southeast wind between 18 and 22 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New ice accumulation of less than a 0.1 of an inch possible.

It doesn't bode well, but what-the-hell. Bring your 4x4 and/or your sleeping bag. We'll be here - maybe (and I mean maybe...) we'll see you here. Be safe!

Matacabras - coming soon!

2010-01-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

Having rolled the boulder up the proverbial hill for more times than I care to talk about, the next beer launch from the BrewFarm's LaBrewatory is on its way.

From the bottom of the six-pack:

In Spain, MATACABRAS is “the wind that kills goats.” In Wisconsin, it's the first in a series of wind-themed specialty beers from the BrewFarm.

In our part of the Upper Midwest there’s nothing like a brisk north wind to get your attention. So when we stumbled upon the name of this wicked Spanish breeze, we decided to brew up something that would likewise stop folks in their tracks.

We brew for flavor and for the overall “beer experience,” and our results are often curious and always distinctive. This unique new ale is no exception. Like its name, it is dark, mysterious, and difficult to translate into a familiar category. The deep hue and creamy body might suggest one style, but the floral aroma and Trappist-inspired flavors say another.

It is dark, yet not heavy; complex, yet balanced; strong, yet very smooth ... and unusually satisfying.

I dunno about you, but that kinda makes me thirsty...

Working with the crew at Sand Creek Brewery in Black River Falls, WI, Matacabras was crafted last week and is fermenting away nicely. Hoping to get "Mata" packaged in early February - but that all depends on the yeasties. They're in "control" of the process and timelines at the moment. We gave them an abundant amount and variety of sugars, a healthy dose of O2 to start and a balmy ferment temp to get the party started.

Farmer Dave hard-at-work on the grain-out of Matacabras. (Note the OSHA-approved Sponge Bob safety hat...)

We look forward to sharing a bottle or two of Matacabras with the growing legions of BrewFarm Friends (aka BFFs...).

Cheers!

A new BrewFarm Family Addition!

2010-01-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

We at the BrewFarm would like to welcome the latest addition to our brewing family, "Milkee" our hot liquor storage tank. She joins us at a bouncing 550 pounds, 8-feet long, 5-feet wide and about 4.5-feet tall, with a capacity of 600 gallons.

She was a rescue from an old, decrepit dairy barn and comes from the excellent bloodlines of the Mueller family of tanks. She'll eventually be hooked-up to our solar thermal system to provide the brewery with a bounty of hot water.

Ain't she shiny and purdy! (Doesn't every parent say that?!?) Stop by soon and welcome our new addition!

Nice article

2010-01-18T08:27:00.000-08:00

A nice view of the BrewFarm: http://michaelagnew.hoppress.com/2010/01/18/daves-brewfarm-brewing-sustainably/

Winds of Vicissitude - A New Year, Many New Beers.

2009-12-31T12:19:00.000-08:00

Come visit the BrewFarm Tap Room this weekend (Jan. 2&3) from 3:00-7:00. Freshly-tapped Matacabras and the growing favorite, Cow Pie Stout are among beers that will be on draft. Brave the cold and start your New Year with some tasty wind-brewed beer! Drop a note if you need directions. Cheers!

Winter Winds & Longer Days - A Celebration

2009-12-23T10:22:00.000-08:00

The BrewFarm Tap Room will have Open Hours this weekend 12/26-27 from 3-7 p.m. Bring your snowshoes and hike the Kodiak trail, sample some Labrewatory creations, buy a glass of your favorite and escape all those post-holiday stresses. Drop us a note if you need directions - hope to see you all this weekend.

My Homage to Kodi

2009-11-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

How does one pay tribute to the Kodi Experience?

After 17 years, three months and change, my best friend and constant canine companion was freed from the physical and started onto his next journey. Kodi came into my life in 1992, a little fur ball with those puppy pin teeth and more energy than one could imagine. But then again, what does one expect from a Border Collie puppy?

I know there are many people who Kodi touched and made quite an impression upon - he wasn't an "ordinary" dog by any stretch. A look into those devilish eyes spoke of depth and intelligence - you knew someone was home.

It is somewhat odd to think he was a part of my life for a third of my existence on this planet. Next to my family, it is the longest relationship I've ever had. And I really feel the word "relationship" here is key, as that implies much more than the usual "man/dog" scenario - aka "just a pet" - Kodi was so much more. He taught me many life lessons: the importance of play, running 'til my tongue drags, belly rubs daily, staring at something long enough will eventually cause something to happen, looking cute will score treats and avoid punishment, and so many others.

My biggest failing with Kodi was never following through on my promise to get him a herd of sheep. I do feel bad about that. He did find, on occasion, other things to wrangle, such as horses and small children. At his prime, he was faster than the wind - I still remember him chasing a deer running through the pasture and being *right on* the deer's hocks as I was screaming at him to stop. Good sport for him!

As a pup, it was imperative for him to be exercised until his tongue was dragging, which usually entailed at least a couple of hours of frisbee tossing. On those days when time or weather didn't allow, he would attempt to recreate some version of fetch inside - no easy feat. And if he didn't get his exercise, he would be bouncing around and off the ceiling. An un-exercised Border Collie is not a pretty sight.

There is a preternatural silence now that he's physically gone. Hard to explain but it's like a solemn quiet that's a blanket covering our living space. Never knew quiet could be so silent!

He fought age to the very end and left us peacefully, eased into eternal slumber. He's buried up on the hill next to the wind generator, overlooking our house and valley below. You know how Border Collies have to keep their eye on things...

I miss him deeply.

The Story of BrewFarm Select

2009-11-16T06:09:00.000-08:00

Now that BrewFarm Select (aka BFS) is starting to make its way into the market, I thought I'd take a moment to "explain" BFS (no, not in the Harley-Davidson mantra of, "...if you have to ask, you wouldn't understand...") - it's become apparent that coming out with a full-flavored, all-malt craft-brewed golden lager in cans as a "premier" debut of all things BrewFarm was kind of a head-scratcher to many in the craft beer universe.

It's because I'm not targeting you.

The key word here is "targeting" - BFS was conceived and executed to appeal broadly without compromise or being generic. There's plenty of that out there already. But there's really not an easy-drinking, full-flavored lager beer you can bring to football parties or holiday gatherings where it will be accepted and enjoyed by both craft beer drinkers and non-geeks alike. I envision it as a staple in many refrigerators across the region. That go-to beer before or after those triple IPAs, Russian Imperial Stouts and other tastebud rearrangers. There's just not a lot of craft lagers out there that aren't "extreme" or watered down.

An interesting observation after a couple of tastings with people in the industry came from two different people who tried BFS and were professed non-beer drinkers: they were both quite effusive in their surprise at how good BFS tasted. High praise indeed. And I think that reaction and enjoyment will continue to play out as BFS gets out deeper into the marketplace.

Some early reviews: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/21405/53745

Trust me, not everyone will embrace/enjoy BrewFarm Select - it's just not possible. I've heard comments like, "tastes like Bud/Miller/Coors..." to which I say, "Have you done a direct blind taste comparison, because if you did, you'd realize there's really not a lot in common other than they're all Pale American Lagers."

And this is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. I've got some very interesting beers cooking in my "Labrewatory" and will begin to unleash them as they become ready. Our upcoming BrewFarm Pre-Solstice Preview Open House on December 13th (details to follow) will allow the public a peek into potential offerings and a chance to check out the Brewery. Stay tuned!

Doing the Can-Can

2009-10-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the inaugural canning run of "BrewFarm Select" at the Point Brewery in Stevens Point, WI. Approximately 1300 cases of 2x12-packs were canned (about 31200 cans...).

It was semi-surreal.

In that, after months of hard work (Thanks DB!), supreme frustration and loving support from my wife Pam, actual cans of actual beer went into actual 12-packs. I was giggling like a little boy.

A couple of firsts for the day: it was the first time I had seen the 12-pack cartons - stunning! Everyone who saw them was really impressed at the execution and how "different" (in a good way - which will be HUGE among the clutter of the beer aisle) they looked.

And the liquid within - it was love at first sip! I envisioned BFS as an easy-drinkin' beer that would appeal to beer geeks and non-geeks alike - broad appeal without being generic. I went down into the beer cellar with Ken Carlson, the brewing director at Point. He pulled off a sample and wow! was I more than pleased with what I tasted. Full-flavored and full of character, yet smooth, crisp and easy to drink. Here's BrewFarm Select spec’s: six-row and Briess Caramel 20 malts, Cluster and Perle hops (’bout 25-30 ibu’s), 5.5% abv. Comes across as a “hoppy pils” - medium- to full-bodied, lingering bitterness, hint of malt sweetness but finishes dry. Easily sessionable.

We look forward to sharing a pint or two with you in the near future!

Ranching Rainbows

2009-09-28T18:40:00.001-07:00

Off. The. Charts.

What an amazing show Ma Nature provided. Insane winds (cha-ching!) and an amazing rainbow show. Often double and intensely vibrant - all we could do was stand back and jaw drop. Pics are just a glimmer of the real deal. Come visit soon!

Kegs, Kegs, Kegs

2009-07-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

Ah, kegs.
Acres and acres of kegs. A lovely sight to see.
The problem is, someone's gotta clean all those kegs, strip the former "brand" off them (much like cowboys marking their cattle, brewers have their own brand to visually differentiate their kegs so they don't wander off to some other cowboy's pasture...) and re-brand them in BrewFarm colors. Gonna be a couple days of hard work. And I couldn't be happier. It sets the mind loose thinking of all the different beers waiting to go into those kegs.
I believe these kegs carry good beer "ju-ju" as they were last in the stable of Sierra Nevada, one of my long-time favorite brewers. People often ask, "what's your favorite beer?" and the usual response is, "the one in front of me in my right hand...". But when push comes to shove, my desert island beer (that one-and-only beer you could have to drink all the time when stranded on said island) has always been Sierra's Celebration Ale.
I love it for what it represents: balance. Strong, crisp hop character. Full malt flavors. Light sweetness that finishes dry. I never get tired of that beer and am sad to see its season fade into the next.
So, does anyone wanna wash some kegs?!?

BrewFarm Test Batch #2

2009-07-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

You'd think with a name like Dave's BrewFarm, there'd be some brewing happening every now-n-then. Yesterday, test batch #2 went into the fermenter and is bubbling away like mad - happy yeast make for a happy brewer!
I'm often asked, "...so, whatcha gonna brew?" and especially out here in the middle-of-nowhere, anything other than light colored lagers are viewed with furrowed brow suspicion. ("You're not gonna brew any of that dark stuff, are ya?")
People who know me and my beer/brewing philosophy know I really don't do "style" - I approach brewing much like I cook - and it really doesn't fit into an easily defined style category. That makes for a challenge when I'm trying to explain the beers I'll be brewing. I like to refer to it as "amorphous brewing" or just brewing for the "Beer Experience."
What went into the soup pot yesterday? Here's the laundry list: Dingeman Pale and Special B malts, Weyermann rye malt, brown sugar, molasses, Centennial, Perle and Amarillo hops and Westmalle yeast.

You tell me what it's going to be?!?

Hop Shots

2009-07-20T09:08:00.001-07:00

Just a couple mid-season shots of the hopyard and Jake. Currently varieties we're growing this year (expansion is planned): Fuggles, Centennial, Santium, Horizon and a new hybrid from New Mexico (not sure of the lineage as of this posting - gotta get that info...). There's about 150+ plants growing at present. Most are first year rhizomes, and getting established is a 2-3 year journey to productivity. Some of the more "active" hops are starting to flower. Not gonna be a bumper crop but the should be some hops to make some fresh hop beers come harvest.

When Cows Attack

2009-07-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning started out as most mornings on the BrewFarm do - dogs out for their morning rounds, deep inhalation of sweet country air and a gander at Jake (nickname for the wind generator) to see what the winds are doing.
As I walked up the driveway, I saw a strange dark spot further up the driveway: it was a huge spray of cow pie! My first thought was, "damn kids" but the hoof prints pointed to a more likely bunch (or shall I say, herd...) of suspects. Living where we do, cows on the loose is a fairly common occurrence. What set this apart was the stealth and sheer carpet bombing of cow pie spray this pack of bovines was able to accomplish without making a sound. We're talking Ninja Cows! As I walked around the building, evidence of this assault was everywhere. On the bright side, once dry, the poo will go into the compost bin for this fall's soil augmentation.
Thankfully the marauders didn't wreak havoc on/in the hopyard, as I've heard happened to another hop grower in Idaho - cows trampled fencing and tore through the hopyard, destroying their entire field.
Bullet dodged.

Wind Brewed Beer!

2009-02-01T09:46:00.000-08:00

DAVE'S BREWFARM™ IS ONE STEP CLOSER TO CRAFTING WISCONSIN'S WIND-BREWED BEER™!

Wilson, WI

Please join us for the raising of what will be the start of Wisconsin's Wind-Brewed Beer on Dave's BrewFarm, a sustainably-based craft brewery in Wilson, WI. On February 3, 2009, at approximately 9:00 a.m., we'll be putting up a Jacobs 31-20, a 20kW wind generator on a 120-foot tower to harvest the bountiful winds on the northern ridge of Wilson. The generator is projected to provide up to 50% of the needed electricity for the brewery/residence.

The wind generator is but one component of the sustainable aspect of the BrewFarm project, with geothermal heating/cooling and solar thermal rounding out the renewable energy mix. Greywater recycling will handle the brewery's wastewater, which will be used in the hopyard and orchards of Little Wolf Farmstead, the agricultural component of the project.

The BrewFarm is an innovative demonstration project showcasing the latest in renewable and sustainable business practices, and rural development. Our hope is that through "leading by example" other businesses will adopt these (and other) sustainable strategies, realizing that every effort helps the planet - and the bottom line.

Be sure to dress warm, as this is an outdoor event - and may take some time given the variable conditions of the day. It "usually" takes about a half hour for the crane to lift the tower - the crane is scheduled to arrive at 8:30 a.m. and will take a half hour (+/-) to get set-up. If there's any questions be sure to call first.

Address: (click on link below)

2470 Wilson St.
Wilson, WI 54027

(takes about an hour from the Cities)

**Directions link:

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&q=N%2044%2058.415%20W%2092%2010.551&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl

For further information or directions contact:

"Farmer" Dave
612.432.8130
or
davesbrewfarm@gmail.com