by David Nassar

Wolverine State Brewing Co. touts themselves as having “Michigan’s most drinkable beers,” and if you don’t find yourself visiting microbreweries very often, this might be the perfect place to start.  Wolverine State specializes in lagers–a time-consuming method resulting in slow-aged, cold-fermented beers.  Lagers tend to be lighter in body and have a cleaner, crisper flavor than is found in most ales.

During my visit to WSBC, I was able to sample each of the nine beers they had on tap (selections change regularly).  Starting with their flagship beer, Wolverine Premium Lager, I could see why this has become their most popular brew.  Made entirely from American ingredients, the brilliant golden color and rich flavor make this the very definition of easy-drinking.  One of my favorites—also, the next beer slated for bottling and distribution—is the Wolverine Dark Lager, which is still as easy-drinking as the Premium, but with a rich and smooth maltiness for those who aren’t afraid of the dark.

District 16 Amber Lager is a toasty, copper-colored Vienna-style lager with a complex maltiness.  Round 12 Dunkel is, in my opinion, a damn-near perfect beer.  Dark, rich, and complex, this brew balances roasted-malty sweetness with hints of dark chocolate and slightly spicy hop-bitterness.  While every beer in the sampler was delicious, this was the one that made me go back for another pint.

Head Brewer Oliver Roberts said that in addition to some barrel-aged selections soon to be released, WSBC is very excited about their newest creation, the Classic American Pilsner, which has been a crowd-pleaser since its recent release. WSBC will be featuring  their Premium Lager, Dark Lager, Common Reaction (California Common) and Wench’s Westside Wheat at this year’s Summer Beer Festival.

We caught up with E.T. Crowe, the Beer Wench, and she added, “We are thrilled with our success so far and thank all our loyal regulars, fellow craft brewery owners and new Wolverine brew drinkers.  Lots more fun still to come!” Her blog is updated every other day with beer industry and Wolverine specific news and can be accessed by visiting www.a2beerwench.com.

Pints are reasonably priced, ranging from $3 — $4.50, and you can carry-out your favorite beer either in bottles or growlers.  The only drawback at WSBC is their lack of a kitchen, so eat before you visit—but save room for pint of your favorite lager.  Wolverine State Brewing Co. is located at 2019 West Stadium in Ann Arbor.  For more information visit WolverineBeer.com.