The meteoric rise of craft brewing is well known, but alongside that boom exists a renewed love affair with whiskey. Rye, Irish, bourbon..you name it! Indeed, many breweries, such as Rogue, Anchor and New Holland now sell beer and whiskey. What better way to celebrate this brewing and whiskey renaissance than with an old fashioned boilermaker?  If you are in Chicago, there are numerous places that offer top-notch whiskey and craft beer.

Here’s a six pack of choices for you to explore.

Duke of Perth | 2913 N. Clark, Chicago
At the Duke of Perth, it’s Whisky, not whiskey -- this is a Scottish place, ya see. Feel free to order a macro if you choose, but when in a Scottish bar, do as the Scots do! For instance, try a full-bodied, rich and malty Belhaven Wee Heavy that’s nitrogen poured for extra creaminess along with a shot of 12-year-old single malt, smoky Highland Park Scotch. Pair it with a few Scottish food selections, too.

Twisted Spoke | 501 North Ogden Avenue, Chicago
Twisted Spoke advertises  “Cocktails made by a real master cocktologist,” so you know you’re going to have fun. The craft beer and whiskey menu will make one’s head spin - page after page of whiskey and beer. And, it’s good, as noted by its premise of “No Crap on Tap.” To recommend a boilermaker here is impossible -- close your eyes and pick a pairing. Better yet, see your cocktologist.

Green River / Annex | 259 E. Erie 18th Floor, Chicago
Quite possibly the best date-night bar in Chicago where one can enjoy a superb whiskey and beer combination. Amidst a brilliant view of downtown and Lake Michigan, Green River has turned mixology into a (fun) science. You’ll find whiskey here from every corner of the globe, and the beer is chosen by its dedicated beer guru. Don’t be a hero at Green River, let the brilliant mixologists guide you to boilermaker nirvana while you enjoy the ambiance.

Dryhop Brewery  | 3155 N. Broadway, Chicago
Corridor Brewing and Provisions | 3446 N. Southport, Chicago
Head Brewer Brant Dubovick and Owner Greg Shuff operate both establishments that offer good music, chef-prepared food, on-site brewing, and plenty of whiskey. Dryhop is a bit more low-key, Corridor more high-end, but both are neighborhood places and casual. If you like a bit more funk in your beer, go to Corridor. If you like a slew of familiar craft beers, head to Dryhop. Either way, the beer is phenomenal. Look for the occasional Barman’s Banquet Special at Corridor - beer, bourbon and a burger for $15!

Fuller House | 35 E. First St., Hinsdale
The Blackhawks’ Coach “Q” is one example of an athlete celeb to have been here, but it’s about as cool and approachable of a neighborhood joint as one could ask for. This bi-level establishment (with a cool staircase) offers a great vibe, giant TVs, a large craft beer menu, elevated pub grub, and a gorgeous wall of whiskeys so coveted they are locked -- this place is begging for boilermaker consumption. The craft beer rotates frequently, so each visit provides a new beer experience.

Hardware | 2000 W. Orchard Rd, North Aurora
A brewery that also stocks 350 whiskies. Basically, Hardware exists as a veritable boilermaker mecca, And, you can feel good about spending your money here because Hardware is a zero-waste establishment that practices environmentally conscious brewing, distilling, and dining. Hardware even operates a 1.5-acre hop farm, greenhouse, and a mini-orchard.