The Madison taproom of Minocqua Brewing Co. is likely to shut its doors before the end of 2026, owner Kirk Bangstad announced Monday. The closure follows a decision by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) to revoke the brewery’s alcohol permits for both its Minocqua and Madison locations.
State says permits were revoked for regulatory violations
According to a statement from the DOR, the revocation stems from violations involving beer that was transported from Illinois without the required state permits and without proper tax payments. The department emphasized that it is “dedicated to fair and consistent enforcement of alcohol beverage regulations in Wisconsin and takes action when the laws are not followed, as occurred here.”
The DOR added that a hearing on the brewery’s appeal is scheduled for Nov. 18, and the revocation will not take effect until the appeals process is completed.
Brewery’s controversial marketing draws criticism
Minocqua Brewing Co. has attracted attention for its provocative social‑media posts. In January, the brewery posted a message promising “free beer, all day long the day he dies” in reference to President Trump, without naming him directly. The post was later clarified to refer to the Madison taproom, which operates year‑round, while the Minocqua location is seasonal.
Following the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting in April, the brewery posted, “Well, we almost got #freebeerday,” again alluding to the President’s death. The company has also pledged half‑price beer when Senator Mitch McConnell passes, using language that many observers have called disrespectful.
Owner defends the business and blames political targeting
Bangstad disputed the state’s findings, arguing that the revocation is politically motivated because of the brewery’s outspoken stance against President Trump. He noted that the company also runs a SuperPAC aimed at removing elected officials he says perpetuated the 2020 election lies and downplayed the seriousness of COVID‑19.
“We are simply exercising our First Amendment rights to express our views,” Bangstad said. “The DOR’s action is an attempt to silence dissenting voices in our community.”
What this means for local patrons
If the appeal is unsuccessful, the Madison taproom – a popular gathering spot for craft‑beer enthusiasts in the state capital – will cease operations. The loss would affect not only the brewery’s employees but also local suppliers and the broader Madison craft‑beer scene.
Community members who support the brewery’s messaging have expressed disappointment, while others have criticized the business for using inflammatory rhetoric that they feel undermines civil discourse.
Next steps
The appeal hearing on Nov. 18 will determine whether the permits are reinstated or the revocation stands. Until then, the brewery remains open, but Bangstad cautioned that continued legal battles could force a permanent shutdown.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
