Back in 1999, craft beers were revolutionizing America’s beer culture. That same year, Brewmaster Joe Katchever founded Pearl Street Brewery — with only a dream, a 1984 Eagle Wagon and a trailer packed with brewery equipment driven from Colorado to the heart of La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Although Joe and his dad started in a small, subterranean brewhouse on Pearl Street, the celebration and Grand Opening was enough to attract throngs of flavor-starved people and get Mayor Medinger to tap the inaugural keg. Pearl Street Brewery eventually expanded to the historic La Crosse Footwear building on Saint Andrew Street.
We’ve come a long way. Today, Pearl Street beer can be found on tap in most restaurants and bars in the area and on the shelves of retailers around the state — and now, in Minnesota. But the one thing that hasn’t changed over the years is a big commitment to making great beer. It is the only thing that still matters. It’s that simple. We’re inspired by good beer.