Three Best Microbrews in Illinois

Three Best Microbrews in Illinois

The task of identifying my three favorite beers in the entire state of Illinois is daunting; the research alone could tax my taste buds and belabor my liver. Regardless of these hazards, I decided to take on the endeavor.

Readers must recognize that I am the Chicago Beer Pairing Examiner, and having been witness to the eternal waging of war between downstate and the city. I could be accused of having a bias. The fact that non-Chicago beers are missing from the list is simply due to the fact that there are so few non-Chicago breweries in Illinois.

Lunar Brewing Company's Armstrong Ale is a tremendous beer, big and bold. Drink enough and you too will walk on the moon. Four blocks from the Villa Park Metra stop, at 54 E. St. Charles Rd., it is quite accessible. Free parking in back and on the street.

Piece Brewery and Pizzeria's dazzling dunkelweizen - Dark-n-Curvy - mixes banana and clove esters with wheat and classic caramel malts. Have one, or three, with a handcrafted mushroom pizza. At 1927 W. North Avenue, east of Damen in Wicker Park, parking on the street is limited and enforced. Payboxes are available.

Two Brothers'Cane and Ebel, their red rye offering, is delicious served from a beer engine. There is something about drawing a beer from a cask conditioned keg that enhances the flavor profile, evening out potentially harsher tastes. Parking at their Warrenville site is free, but be sure to print out the location of their brewhouse and taproom. Note: four-packs and cases are available at quality liquor stores.

The thing is I will maybe acquire three friends and more likely make a dozen other brewers mad as hornets as a result of this project. This is my opinion as of right now. Metropolitan, Flossmoor Station, and Revolution have serious contenders that on other days would make the cut.

What I will suggest: enjoy local beer wherever you are. The rising tide of quality craft beers will float all boats.