Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
SPRUCE BEER
SPRUCE BEER. Spruce beer, a beverage flavored with the buds, needles, or essence of spruce trees, can refer to either alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.
Flavors range from floral, citrus, fruity, resinous and piney. It is believed this is due to the choice of spruce species, the season in which the needles are harvested, and the manner of preparation.
The only known company producing the beverage in Dubuque was operated by John Rosche around 1874-1875.