In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Esther, the General Manager and Production Assistant at Turtle Stack Brewery in La Crosse, Wisconsin. As the first brewery to join the show, Esther shares the story behind Turtle Stack, which has been crafting quality beers for over a decade. She discusses her journey from a small brewery in Eau Claire to becoming a key player at Turtle Stack, where she wears many hats—from brewing to managing the taproom.

Listeners will be captivated by Esther’s insights into the world of craft beer, including the brewery's unique approach to making “beer-flavored beer” that stands out amidst the current craft beer trends. She explains how Turtle Stack focuses on traditional styles, offering a variety of approachable options for all beer lovers, while still embracing creativity with fun beer names and seasonal brews.

Throughout the episode, Esther highlights the brewery's commitment to community engagement, discussing various events and initiatives, such as pop-up art shows, charity nights, and unique collaborations with local businesses. As Turtle Stack prepares for an exciting expansion, Esther shares her vision for the future and how they aim to maintain their community-oriented ethos while increasing production capacity.

Join Courtney and Esther for an entertaining and informative conversation about the craft beer scene in the Coulee Region, the importance of community involvement, and the exciting developments at Turtle Stack Brewery. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just curious about local breweries, this episode is sure to inspire you!