Lakefront Riverwest Stein

Lakefront·Vienna Lager·5.7% ABV

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Tasting Notes

The aroma leads with toasted bread and light caramel malt, with a subtle earthy hop note underneath. On the palate, it delivers clean, bready malt sweetness with a mild nuttiness and restrained bitterness that keeps things balanced. The body is medium and smooth, with a soft carbonation that fills out the mouthfeel. The finish is dry and clean, fading with just a hint of roasted grain.

About the Brewery

Lakefront Brewery is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, founded in 1987 by brothers Russ and Jim Klisch. They operate out of a historic former Milwaukee Electric Railway and Light Company building on the Milwaukee River and are known as one of the pioneering craft breweries in the Upper Midwest. Their lineup spans traditional German-influenced lagers alongside seasonal and specialty releases, and they've built a strong local reputation bolstered by a popular Friday-night brewery tour.

Food Pairings

Bratwurst or grilled pork sausages are a natural match because the toasted malt mirrors the caramelized char on the casing. Roast chicken works well since the bread-forward malt complements savory drippings without overwhelming the meat. A Bavarian soft pretzel with mustard echoes the malt character and cuts through the salt. Aged Gouda pairs cleanly because its nuttiness aligns with the beer's own subtle nut notes.

Style Guide

Vienna lager is a malt-forward amber lager originating in 19th-century Austria, developed by Anton Dreher and characterized by toasted bread, light caramel, and a clean, dry finish with modest hop bitterness. ABVs typically run in the 4.5–5.5% range, though slightly stronger examples exist. It's softer and less hop-forward than a German Märzen or Festbier, and considerably lighter in roast character than a Munich Dunkel, occupying a middle ground that highlights malt complexity without heaviness.