Milwaukee

So much beer, so little time. (Left, an impressive collection of taps at Water Street brewery.) With a little more planning, we could have done so much more in Milwaukee. Alas, we resigned ourselves to do what we could. There's so much more to the story, but I'll try to stick to the beer and leave the rest to my better half.

Here are the beers we tasted, in order:

1. Lakefront Amber
   Solid brew from a local, storied brewery. Unfortunately we weren't able to get in to see the Lakefront facilities, because of (as we were informed by Lakefront staff) "some wedding shit going on."
   
2. Leinenkugel (Leiny) Summer Wheat
   Leigh says "tasted like lemonade." Leiny is a Miller brand edging in on the craft beer market, and a perfect example of why craft brewers need not worry about major brands encroaching on their turf.
   
3. Rock Bottom Sampler (9 beers)
   Rock Bottom is a large chain of brewpubs across the US, and their beer has suffered for it. Though not as transparently macro as Leiny, Rock Bottom offers craft-style beers with not much character or individuality. The nine beers we sampled were rote executions of their respective styles, and left us thirsty.
   
4. Water Street Sampler (9 more beers)
   By far our best experience was at the Water Street Brewery, where conspicuously attractive and friendly bar staff served us a pallet of their brews. The most notable characteristic across styles was a smokiness, evident in the lightest lager, the bock, and even the pale ale. The oh-so-friendly bar staff were pleasant enough, but knew nothing about the beer they were serving or how it was made. Regardless, one suggested a hip brunch spot for the following morning, where I enjoyed
   
5. Three Floyds Pride & Joy Ale
   A well-executed flagship brand from this Indiana establishment. A great way to start the morning.