Culmination Brewing – Brewery Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"What's the vibe here? Culmination feels like an old-school microbrewery in the best way. The small space offers a few barrels with round wooden tabletops, while a modestly sized bar sits in front of a free-standing wall of taps that doesn't reach the ceiling. Behind the bar is the unmistakable noise and aroma of a brewery, assuring guests that the beers they're getting were made just yards away. So who do you see around you? Young and old guests alike thoughtfully sipping their way through tastings. Do they specialize in anything we shouldn't miss? Culmination has no single defining style of beer; in fact, it's known for its diversity and creativity. Those looking for a classic Northwestern IPA will be just as pleased as someone looking for something bold and new—a cucumber sour, say, or a black lime kolsch. Even day to day, the brewery has different offerings, keeping the lineup reliably fresh and innovative. What about food? Most days, Culmination offers some pretty standard bar food: burgers, fries, salads, baked mac, and pretzels. But the brewery also plays host to a variety of pop-up dinners. It's not always consistent—pop-ups transition to brick and mortars or move to another venue—but there's often something fun going on here. And how's the service? The tap house is a fairly small operation, usually with only one or two people manning the taps. On busier evenings, there's more staff; no matter what, though, everyone is enthusiastic—even obsessive—about the beer they're pouring and serving. So why would you recommend a visit to Culmination? Culmination offers a variety of beers: classic Northwestern ales, Belgian dubbels, tart fruit beers, and fresh hopped cream ales, all of which are made with a spirit of curiosity, passion, and experience. The casual, laid-back vibe of the space only lends to its identity as a true microbrewery." - Alexander Frane