The Chicago Auto Show included more than opportunities to check out – and even test drive some – cars, trucks, SUVs and more, but also for one night, a chance to sample specialties from area breweries.
Among the nearly two dozen brewers showcased at “Friday Night Flights” last Friday night, several were on tap representing the suburbs. The Auto Show ran from Feb. 8 to Feb. 17 at McCormick Place.
From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, attendees sampled a variety of new and popular brews for an additional cost. The brewers, including the ones from the suburbs, brought unique flavors to a wider audience.
Alter Brewing
Returning for its third year, Alter Brewing poured its Ambigram Hazy IPA, a brew featuring Mosaic, Citra, and Idaho 7 hops. Fruity and floral, it balances the hazy IPA trend without being overly bitter, owners describe the drink.
With its main brewery in Downers Grove and additional restaurant locations in Oak Brook and St. Charles, Alter Brewing is approaching its 10-year anniversary.
“It’s great to be a part of this,” Dustin Clay, operations manager, said about Friday Night Flights at the Auto Show. “Seeing people who don’t necessarily visit our brewery every day really helps get our name out.”
Double Clutch Brewing Company
Evanston-based Double Clutch Brewing Company showcased Little Juice Coupe, its first hazy IPA. Known for its German-style beers, owners say the brewery stepped outside its usual range with this citrus-forward offering.
Since opening in 2021, Double Clutch has earned multiple awards, including silver medals for its Altbier and Helles Lager at the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup. The brewery’s 12,000-square-foot space doubles as an event venue featuring rotating classic car displays, according to owners.
Noon Whistle Brewing
Noon Whistle Brewing, with locations in Lombard and Naperville, poured its flagship hazy IPA, Gummylicious, a beer packed with citrus hops. Launched in 2023, it has become the brewery’s top-selling beer, according to owners.
“We designed this to be easy-drinking yet full of juicy, tropical haze,” said Mike Condon, co-founder.
The brewery, which first opened in Lombard in 2014 and expanded to Naperville in 2020, recently redesigned its packaging to feature bold colors for greater shelf appeal.
Sketchbook Brewing Company
Making its Chicago Friday Night Flights debut, Sketchbook Brewing Company presented Orange Door IPA, a double dry-hopped brew that has been a company staple for over a decade, owners say. Despite its name, the beer contains no orange, instead drawing citrus notes from its blend of three different hops.
Sketchbook’s abstract can designs reflect its emphasis on beer as an art form.
“We believe beer and art intersect, and we try to showcase that on our cans,” said Michael Sotut, who represented the brewery at the event.
With 18 styles available at its Skokie and Evanston taprooms, owners say Sketchbook fosters a community-driven atmosphere, even opting for TV-free spaces to encourage conversation.
Tighthead Brewing Company
Also making its first Chicago Friday Night Flights appearance, Tighthead Brewing Company featured its Scarlet > Fire Red Ale, a gold medal winner at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival.
“This is a traditional red ale — roasty with light coffee notes and an easy-drinking profile,” said Scott Dykyj, sales representative. “We’re the only red ale here, which sets us apart.”
Now in its 14th year, Tighthead operates a taproom in Mundelein with 18 beers on tap and around 10 available in the market.
“The event combines the auto show’s excitement with the energy of a beer fest, making it a great experience,” Dykyj said.
Kaitlin Mikrut is a freelancer.
