Try a Guttenberg Beer that Pre-Dates Prohibition: 148 Years in the Making

I love to explore with my family. My latest weekend excursion took me back to Big Springs in Guttenberg, but while you're there a trip to the local watering hole is a must. It's not just about longevity in this case, but that tradition is a big part of the equation at the Guttenberg Brewing Company. And after a day on the trails, and the epic 2-mile trip along the river walk, some cold and refreshing brews is the only way to go.

While we were there, my wife and I tried a total of five different beers. Flights of four are available, so we split a flight so we could try a variety of their brews. Our first rounds included Smoked on the Water, a New England IPA that quickly became my personal favorite of the day.

My wife gravitated toward the Blood Orange Ginger Beer, which ended up being her top pick with its refreshing citrus kick. By the way, that drink tastes really close to a Moscow Mule, which they also serve. We also sampled a Blueberry Cider and an Orange Pineapple Cider, both easy-drinking options that are perfect after a day spent outdoors.

Curiosity got the best of me though, so I had to try just one more brew. The Big Mounds Chocolate Coconut Stout immediately caught my attention. At 9.5% ABV, it’s the strongest beer on their menu, but it certainly didn’t taste like it. As I told our server, “That’s a beer that could get you in trouble real quick.”

The atmosphere at the brewery is welcoming and relaxed, making it a great place to sit back and enjoy a drink after a long day outside. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, and the space works great whether you're stopping in for a quick drink or planning to stay awhile for some good eats.

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By the way, the food looked amazing if you're hungry. I'm not gonna' lie, with my love of a good Reuben sandwich, the one listed on their menu immediately caught my eye. It looked incredible, and I’ll definitely have to make another trip back to Guttenberg for lunch sometime soon.

Now the beer that impressed me the most was also the one with all the history to it. Their black lager, Rudolf’s Schwarzbier, is a beer that has seemingly stood the test of time. Sitting at an enjoyable 4.9% ABV, the recipe traces its inspiration back 148 years to old country Germany.

The beer is named after Rudolf Wolter, the original owner of the Guttenberg Bottling Works Brewery, which was founded in 1874. Rudolf Wolter also happens to be the 5th great-grandfather of brewery co-owner Jon, making this beer a meaningful tribute to the town’s brewing heritage that dates back well before Prohibition.

Behind the taps at Guttenberg Brewing Company now is brewmaster Kathryn Klaes, who founded the brewery in 2022. Klaes has a background in chemistry and engineering, something that shows in the balance and creativity of the beers on tap. As both an owner and head brewer, she oversees everything from recipe development to the brewing process itself.

And the place is easy to find, located just a short distance from the Mississippi River, Guttenberg Brewing Company has quickly become a gathering spot for both locals and visitors exploring Guttenberg. Guests can also purchase merchandise and canned beer to take home, making it easy to bring a little taste of Guttenberg with them after their visit.

Between the great beer, welcoming atmosphere, and deep local history behind some of their brews, Guttenberg Brewing Company is definitely a must-stop the next time you find yourself exploring this scenic river town.