Two African-style beers introduced by Sprecher

SPRECHER BREWING Company, Milwaukee’s first microbrewery, recently began production of its first African-style beers, extending its line of award-winning European-style and American craft beers.

Shakparo Ale and Mbege Ale were developed by brewmaster Craig Burge after extensive research into the history of brewing in Africa. Burge focused on the traditional African beers that offer a taste experience not readily available in the local market.

Shakparo Ale is a West African beer brewed from sorghum. It’s described as an unfiltered, light, crisp ale with hints of fruits and spices. It is characterized as an easy-drinking beer.

Mbege Ale is popular in Eastern Africa, especially the northern regions of Tanzania, and is brewed from bananas. Sprecher’s Mbege Ale, an unfiltered ale that gets its delightful banana taste from fresh bananas, pairs exceptionally well with food, explains Burge.

Both of the new African beers, along with all of Sprecher’s beers, root beer and sodas are available at the Sprecher Brewery and Tour Center, 701 N. Glendale Ave., in Glendale—just 10 minutes from downtown Milwaukee.

The center is open from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The popular brewery tours are available year-round at 4 p.m. Fridays and at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Saturdays. For additional information or tour reservations, phone 414-964-2739 or visit www.sprecherbrewery.com.