If there’s one thing that’s always in season, it’s beer. There’s always a good time to have a beer from winter to summer, rain or shine. Being in the Chicagoland area, we’re lucky to have tons and tons of breweries. Aside from the industry giants calling Chicago home, we’re surrounded by awesome, smaller breweries that have crafted favorites no matter the season. Now that we’re getting into winter, it’s time to move away from the lighter brews and enjoy all the exciting flavors this season offers. Uncover yourself from your favorite blanket, spot on the couch, and stop at these Chicago breweries around the city and suburbs for new winter beers!
Noon Whistle Brewing
1748 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
Starting out in one of the biggest suburbs, Noon Whistle Brewing brings us two beers to sip on this winter. First, from October through December, you can grab their “Don’t Worry be Gummy,” which is a Northeast India Pale Ale double dry hopped with “Mosaic” and a 6.8% ABV. Now that is a great way to kick off winter. Next up on their seasonal rotation is the “Gummy Vortex” loaded with Citra hops and a 7.5% ABV. You’ll definitely feel nice and warm after drinking a few of these.
Begyle Brewing
1800 W Cuyler Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Right in the heart of “Malt Row” you’ll find Begyle Brewing. This microbrewery (who also offers tours) has one of the best brews you can enjoy this season – their Christmas brew! This spiced bear features seasonal spices like cinnamon sticks and bay leaves, which is essentially Christmas in a cup. Don’t miss a great seasonal beer this season – it’ll be like a Christmas gift to your taste buds.
Fibs Brewing Company
260 Howard Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Just a stone’s throw away from O’Hare Airport is Fibs Brewing. This Des Plaines native brewery is known for having an eclectic tap room and a welcoming atmosphere to well-behaved dogs and kids, and has the perfect beer for when you’re looking for something a little heavier this winter. The Guatemalan Grappler, a Chocolate Coffee Stout, is the perfect drink for those long winter days. With the perfect combination of robust flavors like Guatemalan chocolate and coffee, this is a beer you’ll keep coming back for all winter long.
Mikerphone Brewing
121 Garlisch Dr, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Music and beer? I don’t think we can name a better combination, and that’s what brings us back to MIkerphone Brewing. Located in Elk Grove Village, this brewery takes naming inspiration from classic songs and pairs it up with delicious beers.. This winter, try out their new 160 Swiftly, a double-dry double IPA that merges different types of hops like Nelson Sauvin, Motueka, and Vic Secret for a perfectly blended brew.
Buffalo Creek Brewing
360 Historical Ln, Long Grove, IL 60047
Each month, Mike brews new handmade beers to add to his extensive taproom menu. As winter approaches, we have our eyes on quite a few launches:
- Limited Edition Holiday Hell: a Helles style brew made with cranberries and blood oranges and ready to heat up opening weekend at the Alpine Biergarten & Ski Village. Launching on Nov. 25th.
- Barrel Aged Hallows: a velvety smooth Russian Imperial Stout aged in bourbon barrels with Cacao Nibs and Tahitian Vanilla Beans for more than nine months. Launching on Dec. 1st.
- Krampus: a Belgian Tripel style beer that promises to punish all those who misbehave the holiday season! Launching on Dec. 7th.
Additionally, BCB is also turning their Biergarten into an Alpine ski village this year! If you want the full festival experience, be sure to pay them a visit!
Bubblehouse Brewing Company
2121 Ogden Ave Unit A, Lisle, IL 60532
If you’ve never had a beer that has every notable flavor of the season, it’s time to take a trip to Bubblehouse Brewing Company. Their Cran Box sour combines cranberry kettle sour with fresh orange peel, ginger, and holiday spices to create a perfect beer for this holiday season. Plus, with different food truck events, trivia nights, and $1 off your pints, you’ll always have a great reason to stop into this brewery.
Elmhurst Brewing Company
171 N Addison Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
As a UM favorite, you can rely on Elmhurst Brewing Company to have a special winter brew. Santa’s Liquid Helper, a winter lager, is brewed each year on St. Nicholas Day, then aged to perfection for one year in oak barrels. This beer will surely put you in the holiday spirit, and you’ll feel festive knowing that Elmhurst Brewing Company only has this special brew once a year. Thanks, Santa! Meanwhile, you can also enjoy their full list of winter beers, such as the Smooth Jammies Oatmeal Stout, Go To Helles Lager, and more!
Crust Brewing
5500 Park Pl, Rosemont, IL 60018
Pizza and beer is an established elite combination, and Crust does the whole thing right. Along with an expansive and delicious food menu, Crust offers a few homemade beers that are sure to elevate your experience. From the “Dough Roller” featuring a spicy hop balance to the “Smokey the Beer” with flavors similar to a traditional Oktoberfest, you’re sure to be toasty warm as you make your way through both the dinner and beer menus.
Featured Image: Elmhurst Brewing Company