In 2019, the Wisconsin brewing landscape witnessed a significant transformation with the introduction of BRW-SKI American Lager, a game-changer that swiftly carved out its niche as one of the first pure craft light lagers in the state’s new brewing era. Situated in the heart of Wisconsin, Badger State Brewing Co. set out with a clear mission: to craft a lager that not only paid homage to the state’s rich brewing heritage, but also pushed the boundaries of traditional craft beer, staying away from production of “light” beers.
Andrew Fabry, founder of Badger State and creator of BRW-SKI, had long dreamed of creating a beer that would resonate with both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. He envisioned a lager that was both accessible and complex, embodying the spirit of Wisconsin’s brewing history while appealing to contemporary tastes. After selling co-founder Sam Yanda on the idea of making a light beer, the team finally hit on a recipe that captured their vision.
BRW-SKI American Lager was crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including water sourced from Lake Michigan which lended an excellent profile suitable to lager production.
The launch of BRW-SKI was met with anticipation and excitement. From the outset, the lager was a hit, characterized by its crisp, refreshing taste with subtle hints of sweetness and a smooth finish that appealed to a wide array of palates. Its branding, which features the Wisconsin State license plate, has helped cement its identity as a quintessentially Wisconsin brew.
BRW-SKI’s success goes beyond flavor and marketing. It sparked a renewed interest in craft lagers within the state, inspiring other breweries to explore and innovate within this often-overlooked category. The beer has become a staple at local drinking establishments, celebrated for bringing a beloved tradition back into the spotlight.
As BRW-SKI American Lager has grown in popularity, it has not only highlighted the possibilities within the craft lager niche, but also set the standard for future brews. In doing so, it has played a pivotal role in ushering in a new era for Wisconsin’s brewing industry — one that respected its roots while eagerly embracing the future.
Company: Badger State Brewing
Innovation: BRW-SKI American Lager
badgerstatebrewing.com
