Top 35 Minnesotan Beverages

Keeper's Heart Whiskey, produced by O'Shaughnessy Distilling Co. in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a unique blend that marries Irish and American whiskey-making traditions. Founded by cousins Patrick and Michael O'Shaughnessy, the distillery embodies their family motto, "Fugit Hora" ("The Hour Flies"), emphasizing the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. The distillery features three copper pot stills and spans over 15,000 square feet dedicated to the whiskey-making process. It also houses a restaurant and bar, offering shared spaces for guests to enjoy food and signature cocktails. Master Distiller Brian Nation, formerly of Jameson, Redbreast, and Midleton, brings his expertise to Keeper's Heart, crafting whiskeys that blend the smoothness of Irish whiskey with the boldness of American styles.Expand

Lost Woods Whiskey Company is a Minneapolis-based distillery founded in 2018 by local nature enthusiast Tom Sheppie. Driven by a passion for bringing people together outdoors and preserving the environment, Tom created a brand that combines premium whiskey quality with a commitment to conservation. Lost Woods produces American single malt whiskey made from 100% malted barley grown in Wisconsin, distilled in Northeast Minneapolis. After distillation, the whiskey undergoes accelerated aging and finishes in sherry-soaked barrels, giving it unique flavors of honey, caramel, and roasted grains. Known for its quality, the brand has won three consecutive Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, achieving a Platinum Award in 2023. Additionally, Lost Woods donates 1% of all sales to environmental organizations, reinforcing its commitment to planet preservation.Expand

2XO is an award-winning Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey brand founded by renowned American whiskey blender Dixon Dedman. The name "2XO" stands for "Two Times Oak," reflecting Dedman's innovative blending process that involves additional oak exposure for each expression. This technique enhances the sweetness to balance the spice from the rye in the mash bills, resulting in a unique combination of intense flavors, character, and complexity in each release. Dedman, known for his high-proof, robust bourbon and rye blends, aims to revolutionize the American whiskey category by moving away from traditional narratives and focusing on innovation backed by exceptional liquid quality. Expand

Forager Brewery in Rochester, Minnesota, blends craft brewing, seasonal gastronomy, and the local art scene. The brewery stands out for its “locally foraged” philosophy, sourcing wild-harvested herbs, mushrooms, spices, and regional grains in collaboration with farms across southeastern Minnesota. Beer is produced in creative small batches that reflect the terroir of the Driftless region, combining technical precision, seasonal ingredients, and an experimental approach. Their lineup spans a wide range of styles - from juicy, aromatic New England IPAs with pronounced tropical fruit notes, to light, refreshing pilsners, and complex barrel-aged stouts matured in whiskey, rum, or wine barrels, developing rich chocolate, caramel, and oaky tones. A special segment of their portfolio features fruit-forward sour ales, often enriched with local berries, rhubarb, or floral accents, delivering refreshing acidity and layered aromatics. For hop-forward beers, they select premium American and New Zealand hops, while their farmhouse and saison releases draw inspiration from European traditions, adapted with local raw materials. Experiments with wild yeast and spontaneous fermentations result in unique, one-of-a-kind batches, making each release distinct. The taproom offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying lunch or dinner alongside a diverse range of beers that showcase the creativity and terroir of this brewery.Expand

Surly Brewing is an independent craft brewery from Minnesota, founded in 2006 by Omar Ansari, that has redefined the craft beer scene of the American Midwest with its innovative approach and strong identity. Based in Minneapolis, the brewery is known for its boldly hopped beers as well as powerful dark styles like the Darkness Russian Imperial Stout. At their taproom, visitors can enjoy craft pizzas paired with a diverse selection of house-made beers and a rich food menu. In addition to its core lineup, Surly regularly releases seasonal and limited-edition brews, and actively organizes brewery tours, tastings, and a variety of public events - further strengthening its connection to the community and promoting the craft beer culture.Expand