By DCBeer contributor Aaron Morrissey

Name: Revolution Brewing

Location: Chicago, IL

Website: www.revbrew.com

Type: Production brewery and brewpub

Sponsorship

Available in DC Market: No

What you need to know: During DCBeer’s recent jaunt to Chicago for this year’s CiderCon. we made it a point to visit Revolution’s Chicago brewpub. We weren’t disappointed. The brewery, which bills itself as “Chicago's new hometown craft brewery” — is clearly not short on hubris. But the beer delivers, marrying midwestern sensibility and comfort with a slightly maniacal edge.

Beer #1: A Little Crazy (Pale Ale / 6.8%)

In Their Own Words: “Pilsner malt is the base with a little carapils and belgian caramunich. Hops in brewhouse are magnum, cascade and citra with a dry-hop blend of citra and cascade. This drives home the aromas of fresh citrus rind to make this a very drinkable and extremely aromatic Belgian American Pale Ale.”

Food Pairing: Brussels Sprout Cups with Miso, Green Apple and Cashew

Our Thoughts: There’s nothing crazy about this beer, the definition of a midwestern pale ale with something for everyone. The brewery calls it “substantive” and the hop bill sure provides some oomph — but this one’s got plenty of gentle touches too, from the hints of caramel to the very pleasurable citrus nose.

Beer #2: Straight Jacket (Barrel-aged Barleywine / 13%)

In Their Own Words: “A strong ale to warm your insides in the dead of winter. Deep aromas and flavors of dark stone fruits, bourbon, molasses, toasted coconut and vanilla come in waves.”

Food Pairing: Sticky Toffee Pudding

Our Thoughts: If you don’t drink your barleywine, you can’t have any pudding! While many might not consider early May the time for a barrel-aged barleywine that slugs with “wintry” ingredients like molasses, vanilla, and a good amount of heat, we respectfully disagree. This will likely be one of the most elephantine dessert pairings at this year’s festival.

This profile is a part of the DCBeer.com SAVOR Brewery Profile series. For more information, follow the link to see profiles of all 2014 SAVOR participants.