10/21/2017 Tribute Brewing Company, 1106 Bluebird Road, Eagle River, Wisconsin 54521 phone: 715-480-BEER (2337)   website: TributeBrewing.com
Hours: Wednesday – Friday 3pm–9pm | Saturday 1pm–9pm

This was a typical boys weekend at the cabin. Summer was over and the dock was still out in the water so up we went to beautiful Hagerman Lake in Iron River, MI to do our duty. A quick stop first in Baraboo, WI to pick up Jim and look at the wonderful rainbow and then we hit the road. High School buddy Bruce was going to meet us up at the cabin to help with our chores. The three amigos often tend to the duties of cabin ownership. Put the dock in the water and drink some beer in the spring. Take the dock out of the water and drink some beer in the fall. So on this October weekend, time was running out because snow and ice happen UP North early in the year!

By Saturday afternoon our duties were done and our throats were dry so we headed into Eagle River, WI to look for a brewery. We found a great brewery called Tribute Brewing Company and pulled right in. Selfie shot in the front and then we went in and found a table. Now, Clyde loves to sit at the bar and so do I, but on this day, the table was the better choice. We didn't want to sit on anyone's lap at the bar.

Tribute is a very interesting place. All of the beers are named as a Tribute to someone or something in Eagle River's history and lore. They say that Eagle River is full of stories and stories are best told over a couple of beers so it's a concept that definitely works! I started with the Old Eagle Porter . . . "Brewed as a tribute to the first steamboat to navigate the Eagle River, Old Eagle Chocolate Porter is a smooth, dark beer with notes of dark chocolate derived from malted grain." I could almost hear the steamboat chugging away as Bill, the owner, told us the tale. Jim had the Barefoot Charlie IPA . . . "“Barefoot Charlie” Haase was a colorful character who went barefoot all year long. He built and ran a tavern/museum/restaurant just south of Land O’ Lakes and featured intricate woodworking, all done by Charlie himself. Much like Barefoot Charlie, our India Pale Ale is bold, creative and leaves a lasting impression." Charlie sounded like a real character. Bill told us that he was a 1960's promoter extraordinaire! He had an event where he parachuted into the parking lot once. The plane circled and he jumped! As he fell, the people all noticed that his parachute was not opening. In horror, the crowd gasped and shuddered and then he stepped through the door and said "Ta Da!" as the dummy hit the pavement.

Bruce had the Ghost Lights Amber Lager . . . "A tribute to the mysterious lights near Paulding, Michigan. This lager is light bronze in color with a delicate malt aroma and a slightly toasted malt character followed by a mild, pleasant hop finish. So well balanced it will leave you wondering…is this for real?"

Bill's been running the place for about five years and it looked like a local favorite. It's right by the Eagle River airport and across the street from the location of the World Championship Snowmobile Derby, held every January. Eagle River is a great tourist town and now has yet another reason for you to visit. We'll be back to the Tribute Brewing Company on many visits to come! Good luck Bill and I hope to hear more of your stories soon! Back to the cabin we went for a nightcap around the fire. Such a strenuous work weekend!

Until next time and remember.........

Go get'cha one!!