Castle Danger Brewery | Two Harbors

Castle Danger Brewery, founded in 2011, is a prominent craft brewery located in Two Harbors, Minnesota, along the picturesque North Shore of Lake Superior. It has grown from a small-scale operation to one of Minnesota’s leading breweries, known for producing a range of high-quality, approachable beers using the pristine waters of Lake Superior and local ingredients whenever possible.

Founding and Growth

The brewery was established by Clint and Jamie MacFarlane, who initially began brewing on a modest 3-barrel system at their resort, Castle Haven Cabins, in Tofte, Minnesota. Their passion for brewing and commitment to quality quickly gained local attention, prompting a move to a larger facility. In 2014, Castle Danger Brewery expanded into a modern 10,000-square-foot production facility situated in downtown Two Harbors. This move allowed them to increase production capacity significantly and distribute their beers across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.

Brewing Philosophy and Water Source

A hallmark of Castle Danger Brewery is its dedication to crafting clean, balanced beers that are accessible to a wide audience. The brewery uses fresh Lake Superior water, known for its purity and mineral composition, which imparts a distinct crispness to their beers. Their brewing process emphasizes quality control and innovation, resulting in beers that are flavorful but not overly complex or bitter, appealing to both casual beer drinkers and craft enthusiasts.

Core and Seasonal Beers

Castle Danger offers a diverse portfolio of beers, including year-round staples and seasonal or limited releases. The core lineup includes:

Castle Cream Ale: A flagship golden cream ale that features a smooth malt character with a slightly sweet, creamy texture and moderate bitterness. It’s often praised for its easy drinkability and balanced flavor, making it popular among a broad range of drinkers.

Aurora Haze: A New England-style IPA with a hazy appearance, juicy hop aromas, and tropical fruit flavors. It exemplifies the popular style’s emphasis on soft mouthfeel and aromatic complexity.

Lager Royale: A crisp, premium lager with subtle grainy sweetness and clean finish. This beer reflects the brewery’s skill in producing classic lager styles with modern refinement.

West Coast IPA: This brew offers a more traditional hop-forward profile with piney, resinous, and citrusy notes, balanced by a dry finish typical of West Coast IPAs.

George Hunter Stout: Named in honor of a local historical figure, this stout is rich and robust, with notes of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee.

In addition to these core beers, Castle Danger produces a rotating selection of seasonal and pilot brews, which allow the brewers to experiment with new recipes, ingredients, and styles, maintaining a dynamic and evolving beer lineup.

Taproom and Visitor Experience

Castle Danger’s taproom, located at 17 – 7th Street in downtown Two Harbors, serves as a welcoming hub for locals and visitors. The space is designed to reflect the brewery’s connection to the North Shore, featuring a relaxed atmosphere with views of Lake Superior nearby. The taproom offers pints, flights, and growler fills, allowing patrons to sample the full range of beers.

During warmer months, the outdoor patio provides a scenic spot to enjoy a beer while soaking in lake breezes. The taproom hosts various events such as beer releases, community gatherings, and live music, fostering a strong sense of local engagement.

While food is not served on-site, guests are encouraged to bring their own or order from nearby restaurants, and the taproom offers snacks like pretzels, chips, and salsa to complement the beer.

Community and Recognition

Castle Danger Brewery is deeply rooted in the Two Harbors community and the broader Minnesota craft beer scene. Their commitment to quality and consistency has earned them recognition as one of Minnesota’s favorite breweries, including fan-voted awards and accolades.

The brewery supports local initiatives and often participates in community events, reflecting a strong sense of place and partnership with the North Shore region.

Sustainability and Innovation

The brewery actively works to minimize its environmental footprint, leveraging the clean water source responsibly and engaging in sustainable practices where possible. Innovation is a continuous priority, with the brewers experimenting with new hop varieties, brewing techniques, and collaborations, ensuring that Castle Danger remains at the forefront of Minnesota’s vibrant craft beer landscape.

Contact and Visiting Information

Address: 17 – 7th Street, Two Harbors, Minnesota 55616

Phone: (218) 834-5800

Taproom Hours:

Sunday through Thursday: 11 AM to 9 PM

Friday and Saturday: 11 AM to 10 PM

Summary

Castle Danger Brewery combines traditional brewing craftsmanship with the natural beauty and purity of Lake Superior’s environment. From humble beginnings to becoming a staple of Minnesota’s craft beer culture, it offers well-crafted, flavorful beers that celebrate the region’s heritage and resources. The brewery’s inviting taproom, commitment to quality, and community involvement make it a must-visit destination for beer lovers exploring Minnesota’s North Shore.