Minocqua Brewing Co. Faces Possible Closure After Alcohol Permits Revoked by State

<p>The owner of Minocqua Brewing Co. announced on Monday that the Madison taproom in Wisconsin may close by the end of the year following the revocation of the company’s alcohol permits by state officials.</p><p>Channel 3000 reported that Kirk Bangstad, the owner of Minocqua Brewing Co., stated that the Madison taproom is likely to shut down as the business continues to contest the state’s decision.</p><p>The brewery has gained attention for its messaging against former President Donald Trump.</p><p>The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) revoked brewing permits for the company’s Minocqua and Madison locations, citing violations related to beer transported from Illinois without the necessary permits and tax payments. The brewery has disputed the state’s action and accused officials of targeting it due to its political views.</p><p>The DOR stated in a press release that a hearing on the company's appeal is scheduled for November 18, and the revocation will not take effect until the appeals process is completed. The DOR emphasized its commitment to fair enforcement of alcohol beverage regulations in Wisconsin.</p><p>Bangstad’s breweries have made headlines for offering free beer if President Trump dies. On January 22, the Minocqua Brewing Company suggested it would provide free beer to patrons if Trump were to die, stating on Facebook, "Free beer, all day long the day he dies." The post was later clarified to specify the Madison Taproom.</p><p>In response to a comment on the post, the company indicated that the message referred to a high-profile figure without naming Trump. Following an incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner where Trump was present, the brewery commented on Facebook, "Well, we almost got #freebeerday."</p><p>The brewery also announced half-price beer when Senator Mitch McConnell dies, stating, "When they announce that McConnell’s Faustian dance has finally ended, we’re gonna start serving our beer at ‘half price.’" McConnell, who is 84, recently returned to the Senate after a hospitalization.</p><p>Bangstad, the brewery owner, is also the founder of the Minocqua Brewing Company SuperPAC, which aims to remove Republican officials who perpetuated false claims about the 2020 election and downplayed the seriousness of COVID-19.</p><p>When contacted by Fox News Digital, the brewery reiterated its plans for a "#freebeerday" when Trump passes, adding, "Reminder, however, no red hats allowed."</p>