Nestled in the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin, the Driftless Brewing Company shines – because it’s run partially on solar power in Soldiers Grove, the nation’s first “solar city.” Driftless Brewing started up in 2013 with a 1 BBL system in the town’s “solar village,” an initiative that dates back to the 1970s when Soldiers Grove relocated their whole downtown to avoid the floods that would happen often and, at the same time, tried to become the first truly solar-powered town in the U.S. – see that full story here.
Driftless Brewing does indeed use solar power to the maximum extent it can at this point, and the beers they’ve brewed – with a particular focus on local ingredients – have created demand in nearby cities and states. The need for expansion culminated in a new 15 BBL system and a refurbished Tap Room in 2019, right along U.S. 61 as you enter the town.
Driftless Brewing Company’s beers include six core brews and guest taps from other Wisconsin and nearby craft breweries. Their six core beers include the Local Buzz Blonde Honey Ale, Dirt Brown Ale, Kick-Axe Pale Ale, Cow Cult Milk Stout, Saison de Jardin and Rolling Ground IPA. Seasonal, special, and guest beers rotate across their 10 taps. They don’t have a kitchen, just pretzels for palate-cleansing. There is a popular Italian restaurant and pizza place adjacent and beer lovers are welcome to bring food in from wherever to enjoy.
Driftless Brewing’s brewing equipment is always working, but the Tap Room is only open Fridays and Saturdays. Hours vary based on the time of year, but the winter hours are 3pm – 9pm Fridays and 1pm – 7pm on Saturdays.
You’ll find Driftless Brewing along U.S. 61 in Soldiers Grove, just south of Highway 131 in northern Crawford County. Highway 171 is a few miles to the south, and U.S. 14 is a few miles to the north. It’s a beautiful drive no matter which way you arrive!
Driftless Brewing Company Address:
102 Sunbeam Boulevard West (U.S. 61)
Soldiers Grove, WI 54655
(608) 624-5577
Website
