GWBT #6: District 14 Brewery & Pub

*This is the sixth post in an on-going chronicle dubbed the Great Wisconsin Brewery Tour. Follow the journey here.*

District 14 Brewery & Pub
2273 S Howell Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207
(414) 744-0399
Visit date: 1/6/15

Quick Hits:

1) How many different beers?
6 of their own on tap, 20 total all-time

2) How long open?
October 2014

3) Why? (here, this, etc)
Homebrewed for >10 years. Father passed away and inheritance helped fund brewery. All woodwork was done in his honor.

4) Distribution?
Growlers to go and  kegs/firkins to be sent to neighboring restaurants.

5) What sets you apart?
Owner is not beholden to anyone, so brews are different each time, left up to his imagination.

When I first moved to Bay View, just south of downtown Milwaukee, I was surprised such a hip and young-ish neighborhood didn’t have its own brewery on the main drag. Recently District 14 Brewery & Pub stepped up to fill that noticeable void, situating itself and its big bay window-bank at one of the most well-worn intersections in the area at Lincoln, KK, Allis, and Howell.
Five of us came on a Tuesday night, as they’ve started bringing in Quizmaster Trivia. It’s not the biggest place, with maybe 6-7 high-top tables, seating for 10ish at the bar, and a some low benches on either end of the space. It filled up completely by 6:50 (Trivia at 7). While its very easy to miss the dimly-lit windows and tiny sign outside, D14 is warm and comfortable inside, where it smells of rich mahogany. They’ve added a smattering of local art to the walls as well.
While my friend indulged in what he described as an absolutely delicious pepperoni pizza ($5), I asked for their beer flight. This night they had 8 of 10 taps filled, 6 of which were their own concoctions. I got all 6 for $13.

1) Dirty Blonde
Wife’s favorite; a bright and summery ale.

2) Local Legend Brown Ale
My least-favorite, musty and earthy flavored.

3) Sesual Shocolate
It borders both stout and ale, but is all chocolate/coffee.

4) Workmans Comp
11% ABV Tripel Saison; dangerously tasty.

6) Blackr’Eye RyePA
An IPA trying to mask bitter with rye. Sorta mouthy dark brew.

8) Malty McHoppenstein
Favorite of the batch, malt-forward APA (American Pale Ale) with hoppy kick.

Bartender Carly was bubbly and friendly, and owner/brewer Matt seems like a nice guy. While they continue to refine their recipes, District 14 is a nice local hangout for a fresh beer.