Minocqua Brewing Company Will Close Madison Taproom
The Madison taproom will close its doors for good when its lease expires at the end of 2026.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The Minocqua Brewing Company will shutter its Madison taproom location by the end of 2026. This move follows the expiration of the business lease for the site.
Why it matters
The closure follows a tumultuous period for owner Kirk Bangstad, who faced significant regulatory and political setbacks throughout 2026.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue revoked the brewing permits for both the Minocqua and Madison locations in July 2026. Kirk Bangstad, the owner, additionally terminated his Super PAC in June 2026 after failing to qualify for the gubernatorial ballot.
The players
Kirk Bangstad
He is the owner of the Minocqua Brewing Company and a political figure who failed to secure a spot on the 2026 gubernatorial ballot.
Wisconsin Department of Revenue
This state agency is responsible for the administration of tax and licensing laws, including the revocation of brewing permits.
The details
The owner is currently seeking an independent operator to take over the Madison space once the current lease term concludes. The business recently liquidated its Super PAC funds through advertising campaigns across Google, Facebook, and a Milwaukee-based consulting group.
Timeline
June 2026: Kirk Bangstad filed to terminate his Super PAC.
July 2026: The state revoked the brewing license and permits.
End of 2026: The lease expires and the Madison taproom closes.
Market Landscape
This closure represents a significant contraction for a brand that previously expanded its physical footprint beyond its Minocqua headquarters. The move follows a broader trend of regulatory pressure impacting independent craft producers operating within the state.
Local patrons of the Madison taproom will need to find alternative venues by the end of the year as the business prepares to exit the space. The search for a new operator suggests the physical location may eventually host a different establishment.
The takeaway
Business owners facing the loss of critical operating licenses often face limited paths forward for their retail locations. This transition highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in maintaining long-term commercial lease viability.
Further reading
Find more information on local business shifts in our Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Channel 3000.
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