Business Details
9 Years
experience
Craft Brewery in Walker, MN | Portage Brewing
Portage Brewing was founded in 2017 with a mission to bring high-quality craft beer to Walker, MN. Our journey began in a former hospital with limited resources, driven by a passion for experimentation and community collaboration. Despite a devastating fire in 2019 that destroyed our original brewery, we rebuilt with support from fellow brewers, neighbors, and loyal customers. Today, we operate a 10BBL brewhouse with 120 barrels of fermentation capacity and an extensive wood-aging cellar, producing over 240 unique beer brands ranging from spontaneous sours to classic IPAs. Our commitment to small-batch innovation and local partnerships reflects our deep roots in North Country's culture and landscape. Services
Craft Beer
Taproom
Brewery Tours
Beer Flights
Food Pairings
Live Events
Merchandise
Distribution
Collaborations
Private Rentals
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- We brew over 240 unique beer brands with experimental and traditional techniques
- Rebuilt our brewery after a catastrophic fire with community support
- 10BBL brewhouse with 120 barrels of steel fermentation capacity
- Extensive wood-aging cellar for specialty beers
- Family-friendly taproom hosting weekly events and local collaborations
Services
Craft Beer Brewing
We specialize in small-batch craft beer production, ranging from traditional styles like Czech Pilsners to experimental brews such as tropical tarts and wood-aged lagers. Our 10BBL brewhouse allows for creative flexibility while maintaining quality. With over 240 unique brands developed, we prioritize innovation and community-driven collaborations.
Taproom Experience
Our taproom offers a family-friendly destination to sample rotating beer selections, including limited releases and barrel-aged specialties. Guests enjoy a scenic setting near Leech Lake with food pairing options and live events. The space hosts weekly activities like trivia nights and seasonal celebrations.
Beer Distribution
We distribute to over 400 retail partners across Minnesota and North Dakota, including bars, restaurants, and liquor stores. Our partnership with Clear River Beverages expands availability of canned and draft products. Customers can locate nearby retailers through our Beer Locator tool.
Collaborative Brews
We partner with regional breweries and local businesses to create unique limited-edition beers. Past collaborations include Falling Knife Brewing and Honest Organic IPA projects. These partnerships reflect our commitment to fostering industry relationships and community connections.
Seasonal Events
Weekly events feature food-and-beer pairings, bingo nights, and barrel-aged beer releases. Annual celebrations include anniversary weeks and Oktoberfest. The taproom also hosts monthly cribbage tournaments and seasonal festivals aligned with local outdoor activities.
People
Jeff Vondenkamp
Founder + Owner
Jeff founded Portage Brewing in 2017 after rebuilding from a 2019 fire. He leads the brewery's creative direction, focusing on experimental brewing and community engagement. His leadership transformed a small hospital-based startup into a regional craft beer destination.
Questions
Is Portage Brewing Company pet-friendly?
Yes, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome in the taproom and patio areas.
What food options are available at the taproom?
We offer pretzels and partner with local vendors like Village Square Pizza and Meat Boutique for delivery to the taproom.
Are children allowed in the taproom?
Yes, we are family-friendly and provide non-alcoholic soda options for all ages.
Can I bring outside alcohol to the taproom?
No, outside alcohol of any kind is not permitted on our premises.
What events does Portage host weekly?
Weekly events include Pint + A Pie Wednesdays, Bingo Brats + Beer Thursdays, and Saturday barrel-aged beer releases.
How can I purchase Portage beer outside the taproom?
Our beer is available at 400+ retail locations across Minnesota and North Dakota through our distribution network.
