In 2018, Lane Smith along with his wife Sherry, the visionary founders of Sunshine Brewing Company, embarked on a journey to bring a unique fusion of flavors to Lake Mills. With a passion for Belgian-inspired beers and a love for Southern California-style Mexican cuisine, Lane Smith opened the doors to Sunshine Brewing Company, marking the beginning of an exciting culinary adventure.
Lane, a devoted fan of Belgian beers, made a life-changing decision when he relocated from San Diego to Wisconsin in 2006. At the time, Lane was the owner of a successful national business-to-business company, but he yearned for something more local and meaningful that would allow him to involve his children in his ventures. When he eventually sold his business, he seized the opportunity to embark on a new adventure—a brewery that would not only showcase his passion for Belgian beers but also bring a touch of the sunny San Diego spirit to the people of Wisconsin.
Lane’s vision was clear: driven by a desire to showcase the artistry of Belgian brewing traditions, Lane carefully crafted a lineup of beers that pay homage to the rich history and diverse range of flavors found in Belgian brewing. From aromatic and complex Belgian ales to refreshing and crisp farmhouse-style beers, Sunshine’s offerings transport beer enthusiasts to the cobblestone streets of Belgium, where centuries of brewing expertise have flourished.
But Lane didn’t stop there. Recognizing the harmonious marriage between Southern California’s vibrant culinary scene and Mexican cuisine, he sought to create a unique gastronomic experience at Sunshine. Drawing inspiration from the bold and vibrant flavors found in Southern California’s Mexican street food, Smith curated a menu that seamlessly integrates the freshness of locally sourced ingredients with the comforting familiarity of beloved Mexican classics.
Initially they had planned to name the brewpub “Houblon,” the French word for hops. However, recognizing the limited knowledge of French in the area, they settled on the name of Sunshine Brewing, served as a homage to the Smith’s roots in San Diego, where sunny weather and a laid-back lifestyle were emblematic of the city. By bringing a little “Sunshine” to Wisconsin, they sought to evoke that same sense of joy, warmth, and enthusiasm among beer enthusiasts in the region.
In pursuit of their dream, Lane enrolled in the craft brewing certification course at Madison College, taught by the knowledgeable Madison Beer Brain, Joe Walts of Ale Asylum. This course provided Lane with the skills and knowledge needed to create exceptional beers.
When it came to finding a location for their taproom and brewhouse, the Smiths stumbled upon a building that had been vacant for decades. However, its history and unique features captured their imagination. The original Cream City building was used as cold storage in the late 1800’s. It boasted 16-inch-thick brick walls, which had once served as protection for ice harvested from the Rock Lake and brought into the back door for the Knickerbocker Ice Co.
To bring their beers to the market while working on establishing a taproom and brewhouse, Lane began contract brewing at Madison’s now-defunct House of Brews. This strategic move allowed them to introduce their brews to the public and build a loyal customer base. It was during this time that Lane honed his brewing skills, refining his techniques, and experimenting with different flavors.
At the heart of Sunshine’s operation lies its lively taproom, which provides beer enthusiasts with an immersive and enjoyable experience. Divided into two distinct areas, the taproom combines the charm of a small bar and seating area in the front with a larger space at the back that houses tables, games, and hosts various events. This setup allows patrons to witness the brewing equipment and processes firsthand, enveloped in the enticing aromas that permeate the space.
When entering the taproom, visitors are greeted by a cozy bar and seating area in the front. Here, they can engage in lively conversations with fellow beer lovers or simply sit back and relish the company of friends while sipping on Sunshine’s exceptional beers. Guests are also treated to more than just a great beer. Sherry, being an artist, lends her creative touch to the space by adorning the walls with her vibrant paintings. This artistic touch adds to the welcoming and aesthetically pleasing ambiance of the taproom, creating a space where visitors can not only savor Lane’s meticulously brewed Belgian-style beers but also appreciate the beauty of the surroundings
However, the taproom’s offerings extend beyond Sunshine’s own creations. Recognizing the value of collaboration and the diverse range of craft beers available, the brewery also features several guest taps from other esteemed craft breweries across Wisconsin. On occasion, they may even showcase beers from neighboring states, adding an element of surprise and novelty to the taproom’s selection. This collaborative approach not only supports fellow brewers but also allows visitors to explore an array of flavors and styles beyond Sunshine’s repertoire.
In addition to serving as a gathering place for beer enthusiasts, the taproom serves as a hub for various events and activities. With its spacious layout, the back area of the taproom provides ample room for tables, games, and hosting a wide range of events. Whether it’s trivia nights, live music performances, or educational brewery tours, Sunshine’s taproom becomes a vibrant and versatile space where patrons can engage in a multitude of experiences centered on their shared love for craft beer.
Sunshine is a nano-brewery where their 3 barrel system allows them to have new, fresh beer every week, brewed on site.
