*This is the ninety-sixth post in an on-going chronicle dubbed the Great Wisconsin Brewery Tour. Follow the journey here.*
Barley John’s Brewing Company
1280 Madison Ave
New Richmond, WI 54017
(715) 246-4677
Visit date: 01/15/17
Quick Hits:
1) How many different beers?
13 on tap.
2) How long operational?
Around 1.5 years.
3) Why? (here, this, etc)
Previous home brewer who decided to take it to the next level. Moved brewery from New Brighton, MN for a better location.
4) Distribution?
Cans in the local area.
5) What sets you apart?
Relaxed environment friendly to locals.
6) How did you get your name?
“Owner John kind of resembles a gnome.”
Barley John’s Brewing Company in New Richmond. All photos by Joe Powell for The Squeaky Curd.
Rising from the snowy plains of New Richmond stands a large, red, barn-style warehouse with a friendly hop-hatted gnome welcoming weary travelers. Barley John’s Brewing Company isn’t the easiest place to track down, but we were glad for the journey.
A large patio space greeted us as we walked to the front door, probably more inviting in summer months.
Inside, though, we were quick to heat up. The tap room is like a large sun-room, with plentiful windows letting in the natural light and warmth. The two flights of beer we tried surely helped with that warmth, as well.
Little Barley Session Ale
Noticeable barley taste, but light and airy.
Wild Brunette Wild Rice Brown Ale
Malty, cherry-wood notes, slight hops.
Winter Ale with Caraway and Fennel
Your new winter best-friend. Makes standing in the snow enjoyable.
Orange Ginger Warrior
“Ooo!” Extremely tasty. Heavy on the orange, mellowed by the ginger.
Mango Double IPA
Passionate fruit explosion. Leans like a cider.
Armagedognome Barrel Aged Wheat Wine
Booze Town, population this beer.
Hell Yes Pilsner
Candied, honeyed, poundable.
Amber Ale
“Give me more.” Malty and satisfying.
Besides the outdoor patio and indoor taproom, the brewery floor itself hosts an event space with build-your-own mini golf setups and lawn games. Our bartender told us the Barley John’s is “like a second home for our regulars.”
We could definitely appreciate that sentiment. Local, wildlife-themed artwork adored every wall, and the decor made us feel as if we’d walked into our cabin up north.
It’s a relaxed environment at Barley John’s, whether you’re sitting at a table with Cribbage built into the top, at the bar making new friends, or in front of a roaring fire watching the brewers at work. Even way out in New Richmond, you’re sure to feel right at home.
