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Brewing up another Madison Craft Beer Week

By Kayla Schmidt x’15

It’s that time of year again, when the smell of hops and the sound of clinking glasses fills the air. It’s Madison Craft Beer Week. From May 2-11, beer enthusiasts come together in Madison for the fourth annual celebration of all things beer. Participants can enhance their knowledge of Madison’s brewing heritage, experience showcases of local breweries, businesses and retailers, attend events and promotions or simply immerse themselves in Madison’s beer culture.

beer tap istock

Co-founder of Craft Beer Week and owner of The Malthouse tavern Bill Rogers says the week will welcome beer beginners and experts and events tailored to both men and women.

“There are several more Mother’s Day brunches this year compared to last,” Bill said. “Plus the fish fry events are upping the ante on the beer styles being offered.”

Bill is looking forward to people being able to get more active during Craft Beer Week, as some of the events being offered include bike rides and even golf outings. According to Bill, “really solid beers people need to find out about” will be offered at both The Malthouse and other Craft Beer Week locations.

Another feature of Craft Beer Week is the “Common Thread” where event organizers and brewers come together to make a collaborative beer. Assistant Director of Union Dining and Recreation Dee Hughes is excited that the Sett in Union South will be one of the few venues to have Common Thread on tap this year.

“The style changes each year; the 2014 edition of Common Thread is a Bohemian Pilsner that was brewed at the new Wisconsin Brewing Company,” Dee explained. “This year’s Common Thread also features local grown hops from Gorst Valley Hops of Mazomanie, Wisconsin.”

As part of Craft Beer Week’s mission to enhance participants’ knowledge and appreciation of beer, the Sett will be promoting a “Beer Education Series” throughout the week. “Our intention is to treat beer much like wine where tastings are focused on learning and appreciation as the best way to enjoy a pint,” Dee said.

Thirsty yet? Then stop by the Sett for some Craft Beer Week-inspired events this May:

 Traditional Wisconsin Fish Fry

May 2 & May 9

A traditional Wisconsin fish fry in the heart of campus—featuring made-to-order cod or spicy catfish served with traditional sides.

 Beer Geek Trivia
May 5 (8 -10 pm)

Join us to test your knowledge of all things beer during our special edition of Team Trivia during Craft Beer Week. There is no fee to play and prizes include Sett Gift Cards. Come early for a complimentary pint glass while supplies last!

 Wisconsin Craft Brewers Forum
May 6 (6-7:30 pm)

Find out all you’d ever want to know about the Wisconsin craft brewing scene featuring: Anello Mollica (Owner  of Central Waters), Tom Porter (Owner of Lake Louie Brewing), Tanner Brethorst (Owner Port Huron Brewing) and Page Buchanan (Owner/Founder of House of Brews). $10 at the door includes tastings and a free pint glass.

 Beer Class: Pioneers in Craft Brewing with Sierra Nevada
May 7  (6-7:30 pm)      

Who said class is boring? Come to The Sett and uncover the history behind one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement. Class will include a lecture featuring a brewer from Sierra Nevada as well as tastings and pint glass to take home. $10 at the door includes lecture, tastings and a free pint glass.

 NFL Draught with Titletown Brewing
May 8 (7-10 pm), May 9  (7-10 pm) & May 10 (11 am-2 pm)

Who will the Packers’ draft? Who will the Bears’ draft? More importantly, what draught beer will you select? Join us during prime time to catch the NFL draft on the biggest screen in town. Enjoy a selection of Titletown Brewery beer while you cheer or jeer your team’s selections. Guests will keep their Titletown pint glass while the draft is on. Meet Titletown reps on Thursday night when we will also tap a special Titletown firkin.

What event are you most excited for? Share in the comments section below! To learn more about Madison Craft Beer Week, click here.

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