Wisconsin Brewery Faces Closure After State Revokes Alcohol Permits
Minocqua Brewing Co.'s Madison taproom is likely to close by year's end after state officials revoked its alcohol permits, a move the owner attributes to political targeting.
The owner of Minocqua Brewing Co. stated Monday that the brewery's Madison, Wisconsin, taproom is likely to close by the end of the year following the revocation of its alcohol permits by state officials. Owner Kirk Bangstad indicated the business is continuing to contest the decision.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) revoked the permits for both the Minocqua and Madison locations, citing alleged violations related to transporting beer from Illinois without the necessary permits and tax payments. The brewery disputes these claims and accuses state officials of targeting the business due to its political stances.
The DOR confirmed to Fox News Digital that a hearing on the company's appeal is scheduled for November 18. The department also stated that the revocation will not take effect until all appeals are resolved, emphasizing its commitment to fair enforcement of alcohol beverage regulations and action when laws are not followed.
Minocqua Brewing Co. has gained attention for its political messaging, particularly its statements regarding former President Donald Trump. In January, the brewery posted on Facebook, "Free beer, all day long the day he dies," referring to a high-profile figure without explicitly naming Trump. The post was later updated to clarify that the Madison taproom would be the location for the promotion if Trump died in the summer.
Following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in April, where Trump was present, the brewery posted on Facebook, "Well, we almost got #freebeerday."
The brewery also previously offered half-price beer upon the death of Sen. Mitch McConnell. A statement on the brewery's Instagram read, "When they announce that McConnell’s Faustian dance has finally ended, we’re gonna start serving our beer at ‘half price,’ because we promised #halfpricebeerday on the day they unplug the ventilator."
Bangstad is also the founder of the Minocqua Brewing Company SuperPAC, which states its goal is to remove Republican officials who perpetuated election lies and downplayed COVID-19. The brewery's website details its mission to oppose Republican federal and state elected officials.
Reached for comment, the brewery reiterated its stance on Trump and its promise of a "#freebeerday" upon his passing, adding, "no red hats allowed."