I visited Is/Was Brewing in Chicago’s Malt Row district! A distinctive brewery specializing in wild ales and sour beers that hits hard for those it resonates with.
📅 Based on a visit in 1/2026, published 1/2026
りほくん
Is/Was Brewing on Chicago’s Malt Row — I decided to visit immediately when I heard they specialize in wild ales!Floodland Brewing, they’re a brewery dedicated to mixed fermentation.
Located in Chicago’s brewery-dense area known as Malt Row. An industrial-vibe taproom specializing in wild ales that utilize barrel aging and mixed fermentation. A gathering place for curious beer enthusiasts.
ルネちゃん
There’s a tart smell… but also a woody aroma! So many barrels lined up!
🍺 Beer Experience: Wild Ale / Sour Beer
Wild ales utilizing wild yeast and bacteria (Lactobacillus, Brettanomyces, etc.). Characterized by complex acidity and distinctive funky flavors. Barrel aging adds even more depth. An acquired taste, but the ultimate beer for those who get hooked.
🍺 味わいプロファイル
Flavor Element
Intensity (1-5)
Characteristics
🌿 Bitterness
2/5
Mild and restrained
🍯 Sweetness
2/5
Dry and crisp
🍋 Acidity
5/5
Pronounced acidity
💪 Body
3/5
Medium body
👃 Aroma
4/5
Rich and complex aroma
りほくん
Barrel-aged sour beer has incredible complexity. The acidity and oak barrel flavors intertwine exquisitely, with the character changing with every sip.2nd Story Ale Works‘s farmhouse ales take a different approach.
💬 Our Team’s Impressions
ホップくん
Wild ales use Brettanomyces yeast and lactic acid bacteria! Natural wild yeast creates complex acidity and distinctive funkiness. Combined with barrel aging, the complexity increases even further!
りほくん
Wild ales are an acquired taste, but once you find them delicious, you’ve truly fallen into the depths of craft beer appreciation! Is/Was Brewing’s酸味の使い方、本当に上手いと思った。
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