We're Crystal Lake Brewing. We're dedicated to creating approachable, yet distinctive, craft beer. We're passionate about brewing the best beer possible. And we're proud to be one of Northern Illinois' premier local breweries.

Yes, we're local. And being local means your CLB didn't travel halfway across the country. But don't try us just because we're brewed right in your backyard. Instead, try a CLB because we're committed to brewing world-class beer. Beer created with the attention to quality and taste reminiscent of a simpler time when craftsmanship mattered.

We focus on using fresh ingredients, like grain and hops, from premium local sources whenever possible. This not only helps to make a great beer, but also allows for the brewery to support a local, sustainable economy.

But we also stay true to a beer's heritage. When the style dictates, specialized ingredients (such as imported German malt and hops for our German Lager) are incorporated to ensure the highest quality and truest taste possible - you won't get a better pint without a plane ticket. It's not the cheapest way to make beer, but for us, it's the only way.

This commitment to quality and taste is led by CLB's visionary brewmaster, Ryan Clooney. An award-winning brewer with decades of experience here in Northern Illinois, Ryan's discernable palate, insightful creativity and uncompromising dedication to his craft have earned him a reputation as that of an artiste.

Crystal Lake Brewing: Local. Proud. And dedicated to the craftsmanship required to create truly accessible, thirst-provoking beer - beer that is easy to drink, and hard to put down.