Sip and Savor: Milwaukee’s Cocktail & Cheese Pairing Experience at Great Lakes Distillery

Read the full experience

Located in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Great Lakes Distillery offers a unique evening adventure that combines craft cocktails with artisanal cheeses. This Cocktail & Cheese Pairing Class invites visitors to indulge their senses in a vibrant urban setting on West Virginia Street, where carefully selected spirits meet distinct cheese flavors in a lively and educational atmosphere. Ideal for anyone craving a taste-driven experience, this class promises not just refreshment but a deeper appreciation of flavor pairing in a welcoming space known for its innovation and local flavor. The experience unfolds over the course of an hour, beginning at 6pm, perfect for a late afternoon or early evening outing. Guests receive four sample cheeses from Deer Creek Cheese, a reputable Wisconsin creamery known for their rich and varied cheese selection, paired expertly with four signature cocktails crafted by the distillery’s skilled mixologists. From smoky whiskey infusions to lighter, herbaceous cocktails, each pairing highlights the unique profiles of the cheeses, offering a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. Great Lakes Distillery stands out as a vibrant hub in Milwaukee’s craft beverage scene. What makes this class special is its interactive and approachable format — suitable for cocktail novices and aficionados alike. The setting encourages socializing and discovery, perfect for friends looking for a memorable Thursday night or a distinctive way to celebrate an occasion like Mother’s Day. With a sleek, industrial-chic tasting room atmosphere, visitors tap into a fusion of local culture and culinary craft. This experience not only entertains but educates. Participants leave with printed cocktail recipes and a branded GLD glass as a memento, bridging the class with the possibility of recreating these perfect pairings at home. While the distillery’s primary draw is its spirits, this class deepens appreciation of how cheese can elevate a drink, a combination celebrating Wisconsin’s standing as a cheese powerhouse. For travelers staying in Milwaukee, this class offers a refreshing break from traditional sightseeing and outdoor pursuits. It’s ideal for food lovers and those interested in local craft culture. Booking is advised due to limited space, enhancing the intimate feel of the session. Whether you’re looking to expand your palate or enjoy a novel urban adventure, the Great Lakes Distillery’s Cocktail & Cheese Pairing Class brings a slice of Milwaukee’s artisan spirit to life in a flavorful, social setting.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1 hour.

Fitness level

No physical fitness required; suitable for all abilities

Frequently asked questions

Is prior experience with cocktails or cheese necessary?

No experience is needed; the class is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Are tickets refundable?

Please check directly with Great Lakes Distillery as refund policies can vary.

Can I purchase the featured cheeses or spirits after the class?

Yes, both are often available for purchase onsite.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility details are not specified; contacting the distillery prior to booking is recommended.

Are pets allowed at the event?

No, pets are not permitted inside the distillery during classes.

Can I attend solo or do I need a group?

Solo guests are welcome and will find a welcoming, social environment.

Local insights

Wildlife

Urban bird species such as pigeons and sparrows are common nearby
Seasonal monarch butterflies in nearby Mitchell Park Conservatory

History

Great Lakes Distillery has been a key player in Milwaukee’s craft spirits revival since 2012, supporting local agriculture.

Conservation

The distillery emphasizes sustainable practices, including sourcing grains from regional farms and reducing waste in production.

About Great Lakes Distillery

Great Lakes Distillery is a Milwaukee, Wisconsin craft distillery and event host known for hands-on tasting experiences, cocktail classes, and curated evening events. The distillery operates a tasting room and hosts public and ticketed events at Still & Oak in West Allis and at its Milwaukee distillery & tasting room, presenting a diverse calendar that includes guided whiskey tastings, cocktail and cheese pairing classes, craft cocktail and cigar nights, themed drag shows, and creative workshops. Events are led by local instructors and guests, such as whiskey educators, cigar experts from Brew City Cigar Festival, and workshop leaders including Neutral Ground Clay Co and local artists. Attendees receive guided tastings, sample flights, take-home glassware or tasting notebooks at select experiences, and printed cocktail recipes for pairing events. Many classes provide all materials and step-by-step instruction, making them accessible for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Great Lakes Distillery emphasizes a curated event environment with limited seating for many experiences to preserve quality and personal attention. Tickets are sold in advance for popular classes that regularly sell out, ensuring a managed guest experience. The distillery’s event listings clearly state dates, locations, and featured collaborators, enabling confident planning. For visitors seeking distillery tours, elevated tastings, or themed social nights in Milwaukee and West Allis, Great Lakes Distillery provides professionally run, locally focused experiences that combine craft spirits with hands-on learning and entertainment. Attendees often leave with recipes, glasses, or mementos, and events are presented with clear ticketing, timing, and location details for easy planning ahead.

Base locationMilwaukee, Wisconsin

Tours offered9+

Adventure tips

Arrive early to settle inPlan to arrive a few minutes before the 6pm start to get comfortable and meet fellow participants.

Age restrictions applyThis event is strictly 21 and over; bring ID for entry.

Pace yourselfWith four cocktails served, drink responsibly to enjoy the full tasting experience.

Reservations highly recommendedSpace is limited and fills quickly, so book your spot ahead to secure your place.

Recommended gear

Valid ID: Required to verify legal drinking age for entry.
Comfortable casual attire: Dress casually for an evening indoors in a stylish tasting room.
Notebook or phone: Handy for jotting down cocktail recipes and pairing notes.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated between cocktail tastings.