McHenry County Introduces Craft Beverage Trail

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — A new partnership initiative between Naturally McHenry County and the county’s 11 craft breweries and distilleries launched Thursday.

The craft beverage trail includes nine craft breweries and taprooms, as well as the two distilleries that call McHenry County home. Several locations are offering special discounts to those who check-in via the Naturally McHenry County app. The "McHenry County Craft Beverage Trail" can be found in the "challenges" portion of the free Naturally McHenry County app.

Locations on the trail include Rush Creek Distilling, Harvard; McHenry Brewing Co., McHenry; Kishwaukee Brewing Co., Woodstock; Holzlager Brewing Co., Woodstock; ShadowView Brewing, Woodstock; Crystal Lake Brewing, Crystal Lake; Spirit Water Brewery and Distillery, Cary; and Cary Ale House & Brewing Co., Cary; Scorched Earth Brewing Co., Algonquin; and Sew Hop’d Brewery & Taproom, Huntley and More Brewing Co., Huntley.

Those who visit all and complete a coded check-in process will receive a specially designed T-shirt and sticker.

Jaki Berggren, president & CEO of Naturally McHenry County, said the purpose of the challenge is to prompt residents and visitors to carve out slices of time to enjoy locally crafted drink offerings that are found in the various towns.

There is no deadline for completion.

"It's hoped those who embark on the trail will consider making a day of it in Harvard, Woodstock, Crystal Lake, Cary or Huntley, visiting other unique shops, restaurants and points of interest along the way, too," according to a news release from Naturally McHenry County.

Cara and Dan Payson, owners of Kishwaukee Brewing Co., which is located at 1900 Dillard Court in Woodstock, hope the promotion will further enlighten residents about what’s made in their midst.

“This is a great fit,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for people to try products produced in their backyards, and to stay local and support local businesses.”

In the app, those interested can learn more about each business located along the trail, as well as find out whether they can score a special discount at a particular location.

Todd Stricker, one of the four owners of Rush Creek Distilling, said the promotion may provide an added nudge to those who’ve been curious, but have yet to visit their 5-year-old business at 1501 W. Diggins St., Harvard.

“It’s weird how often we hear from people, ‘I’ve been meaning to come check you out,’” he said. “This may give them that extra boost of motivation to make the trip.”

For other information about the McHenry County Craft Beverage Trail and more, visit mchcraftbev.com.