The Minnesota State Fair’s popular Brewed in Minnesota exhibit is set to highlight Rochester’s Little Thistle Brewing this year. Located in the Agriculture Horticulture Building, the exhibit offers six curated beer flights that showcase the state’s diverse craft brewing talent.
Little Thistle’s Selections
Little Thistle will contribute two beers to the rotating flights: Brave Woman, a Scottish‑style amber ale, and Wetlands, a hazy IPA. In addition, the brewery’s Jungle Bird IPA will be on tap at the Ball Park Café, giving fair visitors another chance to sample the Rochester‑based brew.
Other Southeast Minnesota Breweries
The exhibit also features fellow Southeast Minnesota breweries, including Chapel Brewing from Dundas, Mineral Springs Brewery from Owatonna, and Tanzenwald Brewing from Northfield. Together, these breweries represent the growing craft scene that is rooted in family‑owned businesses and local tradition.
Fairgoers can choose from six distinct flight themes—Crisp and Clean, Hoppy and Bitter, Fruity, Spicy, Tart, and Funky, Malty, Sweet, Dark, and Roasty, Award Winners Flight, and Rotating Craft Seltzers—allowing them to explore a wide range of flavors while supporting Minnesota’s independent brewers.
Why This Matters for Rochester
Seeing Little Thistle featured at a statewide event underscores the brewery’s commitment to quality and community. The exposure brings attention not only to the brewery’s products but also to Rochester’s broader entrepreneurial spirit. As families and friends gather at the fair, they encounter a taste of Rochester’s local heritage, reinforcing the value of supporting home‑grown businesses.
Local leaders have often emphasized the importance of fostering a strong small‑business environment, and Little Thistle’s presence at the fair aligns with those goals. By reaching thousands of Minnesotans, the brewery helps put Rochester on the map as a hub for craft brewing excellence.
Visiting the Exhibit
The Brewed in Minnesota exhibit runs throughout the fair’s duration. Visitors should look for the Agriculture Horticulture Building signage and plan to sample the flights early, as popular selections can run out quickly. For those interested in purchasing a full‑size bottle or learning more about Little Thistle’s upcoming releases, the brewery’s tasting room in Rochester remains open year‑round.
Whether you’re a longtime craft‑beer enthusiast or a first‑time fair attendee, the Little Thistle offerings provide a flavorful glimpse into Rochester’s thriving brewing community.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
