Philadelphia Beer Enthusiast

Bud making a move against local brewers?

2011-07-16T09:03:00.000-04:00

The Inquirer runs a story this morning on Budweiser encrouching on local brewers:

Philadelphians are buying more craft beer than ever, but the region's brewmasters are bracing for the biggest name in beer to move into town.

Anheuser-Busch InBev, maker of Budweiser products and the world's largest brewer, trademarked the name "215" this spring, along with the area codes for 14 other U.S. cities.

The filing is the first public step toward creating a new beer by the same name.

"We're being attacked," said Bill Covaleski, brewmaster and president of Victory Brewing Co., a craft brewery in Downingtown. "Philadelphia's craft brewers are going to be forced to defend our status, but I'd rather be in this position than be the attacker."

Anheuser-Busch declined comment on the filing, but Covaleski said he expected to see a regionalized "215" beer on tap in six to eight months.

Local brewers aren't stunned by the beer giant's latest move.

Anheuser-Busch acquired Goose Island Beer Co. in March, along with its "312 Urban Wheat" beer, named after its hometown Chicago area code.

So Bud buys Goose Island and now is going to push that 312 beer into each market but with regional area code names? I don't think Victory and the boys should be that worried. While Goose Island has always been a favorite of mine, I don't think people will be moving from Hop Devil or Prima Pils to this new Bud product in droves.

Craft beer customers are for the most part a discerning crowd who are better educated about what they are drinking. Thats why they flock to Yards or Flyish Fish and avoid the thin, flavorless mega-beers.

However, if they are producing a different beer in each market, and making an effort to create a brew that is more in line with what craft beer fans enjoy, then that could be a small dent in local brewers sales. It is hard to believe that someone who works on such a massive scale as Budweiser would go small scale like that, but it would be a worry for a local competitor.

Iron Hill's Rising Sun IPA

2011-04-19T07:26:00.023-04:00

Stopped into Iron Hill West Chester last night to catch the sports tripleheader we had going on TV and sample what was new at the brewery. You almost never go wrong at IH. The Stout was strong, the Saison just spicy enough to be interesting but the Rising Sun IPA made my night. The beer is brewed with Sorachi Ace hops, originally grown by Sapporo in Japan, and it gives the taste quite a lemony kick.

It pours a golden oranage with a small white head but that lemon aroma hits you almost immediately. The taste is bitter and zesty on the front end with the lemon and other citrus notes pushing through, then a dry almost peppery feel at the finish. Pretty smooth and creamy for an IPA checking in at 7.5%.

Overall perhaps the best IH brew I have had in awhile. Definitely worth a trip. B

UNO Chicago Grill has good beer?

2011-04-14T18:00:00.001-04:00

For a chain restaurant, I have to say UNO Chicago Grill has an
impressive tap selection. Stopped in to the fairly new Newtown Square
location and was shocked to find enough choices to appeal to this beer
geek and my Budweiser loving companion (I know I know). From the
standards like Hoegaarden and Stella to specialty domestics like Bells
Oberon and Rogue Chocolate Stout to classic imports like Palm and St.
Bernardus. The usual big beer suspects are there as well but the
breadth of selection makes this a great choice for dragging those
mixed groups of beer friends, from basic to advanced.

Orlando is a beer wasteland

2011-04-13T21:35:00.002-04:00

Day three in Orlando and I have yet to find a decent beer bar anywhere. Yes I know this is tourist central but even some tourists must want something beyond a Bud or Blue Moon. And what about the locals? Don't you people need a good beer after dealing with us all day? Even the big local chain, Miller's Ale House, is lame. Seriously Orlando - get your act together!

Avery Maharaja

2011-04-09T16:17:00.020-04:00

This Imperial IPA from Avery is Colorado is a serious beer. It weighs in at 10% ABV to start. It pours with a huge fluffy head and an enticing dark amber color. The aroma is intoxicating. It may be the best smelling beer I have ever had. The malt and alcohol mix with some wonderful citrus scents, namely graprefruit, to create an overwhelming musk.

The taste begins with a hop explosion on the tongue. Not only does this beer smell strong but damn it tastes strong. The piney bitterness is strong and lingering, only giving way at the end to some malty sweetness. Amazing.

Considering the ABV this brew is fairly smooth with a good level of carbonation. This is one terrific beer and may be the best thing I have tasted so far this year.

A

Kiss-off for wine kiosks

2011-04-06T12:40:00.013-04:00

No this column in today's Inquirer is not beer related but I love when simple common sense is used like a machete against the PLCB.

Two Months and Counting....

2011-04-03T19:16:00.002-04:00

Tick.....tick....tick

Lehigh Valley Brewfest

2010-10-14T03:20:00.002-04:00

Coming up this Saturday is the Lehigh Valley Brewfest in Easton. Two dozens breweries (including local favorites Victiry, River Horse, Weyerbacher, Stoudts and Troegs) will be on hand this year and the weather looks like it is going to cooperate. Tickets are $35 or $40 at the door.

Flying Fish Exit 13

2010-10-12T10:41:00.000-04:00

I was excited to hear that Flying Fish's 6th release in the Exit Berr Series is going to be a chocolate stout for Exit #13 (not sure what the connection is there but I love a mocha stout). The new brew should be available by Christmas.

You may remember that this time last year, FF released their first stour in the Exit Series, Exit 1 Bayshore Oyster Stout. This has been a wonderful line of beers that has left me anticipating each new release.

Baltimore Beer Week

2010-10-07T10:51:00.001-04:00

For those of you not opposed to a short jaunt down 95, this weekend marks the beginning of Baltimore Beer Week. You can find a list of events and locations here.

Not as extensive as Philly Beer Week but still worthy of attention. It will help bide you over until June!

25 Best Beers in the World

2010-10-02T10:57:00.003-04:00

Men's Journal magazine has published their list of the 25 Best Beers in the World.

It was impressive to see three local favorites make the list: Sly Fox Pikeland Pils, Victory Helios Ale and Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA. Certainly I think we all have our own favorites and everyone's list would probably be different, but it was still good to see local breweries get the recognition!

The Ten Commandments of Craft Beer

2010-09-29T15:58:00.001-04:00

This is utterly brilliant. WIsh I had thought of it.

Sierra Nevada Tumbler

2010-09-04T18:05:00.003-04:00

I had this delicious new brew on tap the other day and decided to make it my first fall purchase of the year (since I am sure the remaining releases will be Oktoberfest or Pumpkin brews).

Described as an Autumn Brown Ale, this seasonal special relacing the Anniversary Ale on their release schedule. It pours a dark copper color with a deep malt and cocoa aroma and a big tan foamy head. The taste is lighter than expected with bread and caramel notes and a nice hoppy bite to it at the end. A smooth beer with great taste - just what I was looking for.

Well carbonated with a good balance this is a very sessionable fall beer which is no surprise. Sierra never steers us wrong.

B+

McGillin's Oktoberfest Celebration

2010-08-28T20:53:00.001-04:00

Get out your lederhose & beer steins, McGillin's is throwing a month-long Oktoberfest celebration! McGillin's will be pouring German beers and serving German foods from Thursday, September 2 through the Midtown Village Fall Festival on Saturday, October 2.

McGillin's, Philadelphia's oldest continuously operating tavern, will serve Stoudt's Fest, Flying Fish's Octoberphish, Victory's Festbier, Ramstein's Oktoberfest and a multitude of local and international Octoberfest beers.

German cuisine will be added to McGillin's hearty menu of reasonably-priced comfort foods. German lunch and dinner specials will include Mussels Steamed in Oktoberfest Lager served over Hay & Straw Noodles with German-Style Toasted Cheese Bread; Grilled Pork Loin with Sweet & Sour Cherry Sauce, Braised Cabbage, Apples & Potato Dumpling; German Style Grilled Sausage Platter with Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Red Cabbage & Warm German Potato Salad; and Kasebrotchen (Chicken Breast topped with German Style Spread of Ale, Brown Mustard & Sharp Cheddar Cheese & baked to a bubbly finish) and served with Himmel Und Erde and more.

Beerfest at the Ballpark

2010-08-24T20:21:00.003-04:00

Coming up at McFaddens at Citizens Bank Park this Sunday from 2-6pm is the 3rd Annual Beerfest at the Ballpark. There will be over 20 Breweries to sample with food, live music, games, & prizes. Phillies vs. Padres on the Big Screens beginning at 4:10 PM. Tickets are $40 in advance; $50 at the door (If Available). A portion of the tickets proceeds benefits the PSPCA.

Tickets and more info here.

Rumspringa Golden Bock

2010-08-18T20:03:00.002-04:00

Got to sample Lancaster Brewing's Rumspringa Golden Bock. They name alot of their beers after Amish themes and this one is no exception. The namesake of this brew is the period of time in each young Amish man's life when he is allowed to head out into the world and sow his wild oats.

This beer pours a bright golden color with a thin head and a honey-laced aroma. It is slightly sweet and smooth tasting with a great balance and a surprisingly bitter finish. Pretty drinkable at 6.6%ABV although I would have guessed it was higher.

Overall a very nice maibock: B+

Yappy Hour!

2010-08-15T22:17:00.000-04:00

Well now this is a pretty cool event, well at least for us dog owners. A happy hour at Sly Fox in Royersford for those of us with four legged friends. One Thursday each month they will welcome dogs and owners for some beers and doggy socilization.

I am looking forward to it!

Preparing for Oktoberfest

2010-08-13T07:33:00.000-04:00

The Mercer and Fonthill Museums present their annual beer tasting event, Biergarten Evening (formerly known as Brewery Night) on Friday, Aug. 27, from 7 p.m. 10 p.m. The event offers Old

World charm with a modern twist in the spectacular outdoor setting of Fonthill.

Guests will add to their knowledge of brewing history courtesy of Dean Browne of Philly Beer School and Philadelphia Brewing Company, who will explain the main styles of German beer, detail the brewing process and discuss the history of brewing in Germany. After the talk, guests will sharpen their palates with a tutored beer tasting of German beer, including lagers, bocks, wheat beer pils and helles, sample German fare and listen tothe sounds of the Philadelphia German Brass Band. Keystone Homebrew Supply

will also be on-hand to offer samples of their beer and to give instructions on homebrewing.

Biergarten Evening is $40 per person and $34 for members. Registration is required. To register for the event, call 215-345-0210, ext. 123. Fonthill Museum is located on East Court Street & Route 313 in Doylestown.

Not Good News

2010-08-10T07:21:00.000-04:00

What is it with freaky accidents closing down Monks??

More Gluten Free Beer On Its Way

2010-08-09T07:54:00.000-04:00

For a third year running, West Philadelphia's Dock Street Brewing Company ((701 South 50th Street, 215-726-2337) is brewing a small batch of the sought-after Sudan Grass Ale. This sorghum ale is inspired by the traditional fermented sorghum beverages found in Africa. Known as pombe in East Africa, bil-bil in Cameroon, or burukuto in Nigeria, these sorghum beers play an important role in African culture throughout the entire continent. They provide nutritional sustenance, help protect against disease and infection and are used in ceremonial practice.

Sorghum is a grass that is now produced commercially all over the world, but is believed to have been originally cultivated in Sub-Saharan Africa, and perhaps in Yemen and Sudan, around 100 C.E. This is the only area where it still grows wildly today and serves as the inspiration for the name of the beer.

Not only does sorghum have special importance to certain African cultures, but it can also satisfy the beer desires of anyone suffering from celiac disease. This grain is one of only a few that can be used to produce gluten-free beer.

Dock Street's take on the traditional African beer is fermented with gluten-free yeast, and was brewed with a combination of sorghum and wildflower honey (locally sourced from Pennsylvania). Sudan Grass Ale is spiced in the kettle with hibiscus, rose hips, rooibos and lemon grass. Like its traditional counterpart, Sudan Grass is served unfiltered, which explains its natural cloudy appearance. Slightly tart and fruity in flavor, it is reminiscent of a cider or mead.

Sudan Grass Ale will be available on tap at Dock Street for a limited time beginning in early September.

Victory Adds New Tanks

2010-08-07T07:41:00.000-04:00

This week Victory Brewing Co. installed eight large fermentation tanks that will boost the brewers capacity by a third. The 8 join four that were installed just last year.

Its an amazing growth spurt in a marketplace that saw overall beer sales drop 2% last year. Victory's sales however are up sharply, 25% YTD over 2009.

The new tanks will up the capacity of the brewery to almost 100,000 barrels. That is tremendous when you consider they sold under 50,000 last year and are tracking to sell 60,000 this year. Obviously the growth is expected to continue.

Ommegang Zuur Sour Ale

2010-08-06T18:07:00.000-04:00

Tried this new Ommegang brew on tap at Local 44. The brewery discribes it thusly:

“Zuur – or Sour – is our collaborative Flemish sour brown ale. A beer whose style arises from the mists of brewing history. It uses mixed fermentation, real fruit, significant aging, and master blending. All of these are ancient and revered Belgian techniques. This unique Flemish sour brown ale is complex, tart with a touch of sweetness, lightly malty and gently hopped. Zuur is a unique blend created in collaboration between Brewery Ommegang and Brouwerij Liefmans.”

It pours a golden brown with a small white head and a fairly strong fruity aroma. A decent amount of sour fruit flavor up front that fades fairly quickly. Not an overwhelming type of sour but more subtle with nice carbonation and a medium body that goes down smooth at 6%ABV. A little disappointing on my end but I am sure many more who are not big sour fans will find this beer much more approachable.

B

Monk's Mad Monday

2010-08-05T06:35:00.001-04:00

Well well...looks like it's time for another Monk's Mad Monday. This week they will be highlighting some special kegs from Allagash. Better get there early because there is only one keg of most of these special beers. The doors will open at 11:30AM.

BLACK - Their Belgian-style stout aged in a bourbon barrel

CONFLUENCE - Their house strain of Belgian yeast and their Brettanomyces yeast.

INTERLUDE - 9.5%abv Saison-ish beer

ODYSSEY - 10% Wheat beer aged in American Oak

VICTOR - 9%abv ale made with local Red Chancellor grapes.

VICTORIA - same beer, but with Chardonnay grapes instead.

WHITE - their kick-ass Belgian-style wit.

Sly Fox Grand Opening

2010-08-04T17:29:00.000-04:00

August 6-8 will be the Grand Opening Party for the relocated Sly Fox brewpub in Phoenixville and they will mark the occasion with 23 beers pouring all weekend (or as long as they last).

Things will get rolling on Friday with 23 beers pouring and specials on the food- menu--including a particularly appealing dessert--O'Reilly's Stout Ice Cream Floats--and continue throughout the weekend. The very popular local band Celtic Spirit will be filling the building with Irish music from 7-11 on Saturday night as an additional treat.

I have not made it out to the new place yet but plan to make some time this weekend!

Mann Music Center

2010-08-03T07:57:00.000-04:00

I was quite impressed when arriving for my first show at the Mann in quite awhile to find a beer station right inside the gate that was pouring all local brews. Finding Victory, Sly Fox and Philadelphia Brewing was certainly a nice change from the Bud Light vendors.

We visited that station several times but I also noticed that the bar at the top of the hill also stocked a pretty wide variety of beers.

I am not sure if this is just a reaction to the types of crowds they get at the Mann, but I am hoping its a trend that will spread to other city venues!

Varying definitions

2010-08-02T07:42:00.002-04:00

Apparently my definition of what a "Premium" beer is differs greatly from this establishment. Not only do they consider Bud Light Lime to be "Premium" beer but they then charge the same price as a "Domestic".

And don't even get me started on the fact that those "Premium" beers are for the most part all domestic!

Gluten Free beer

2010-08-01T22:54:00.004-04:00

Earth Bread + Brewery on Germanown Ave has unveiled a new gkuten-free beer called Gluntenus Minimus. The brew is very light, tart and refreshing. At 2.7% ABV it may also be the perfect "lawnmower beer". Not available in bottles but the growlers sure come in handy!

New Lancaster 12 pack

2010-07-15T09:15:00.001-04:00

Stumbled across this in Total Wine the other day and couldn't resist. While the beers may be very familiar, I give props to Lancaster for some stand out packaging. Thats one way to differentiate yourself in a crowded marketplace.

The 12 pack contains four Lancaster favorites:
* Hop Hog IPA - a great IPA for folks who don't like theirs bitter
* Milk Stout - imagine a mochachino as a beer
* Amish Four Grain - a pleasant American Pale Ale
* Strawberry Wheat - my least favorite of the four but not bad for a fruit flavored brew

Separating the Men from the Boys!

2010-07-10T22:05:00.000-04:00

Sorry, this juxtaposition just made me laugh!

Flying Fish Exit 6 - Wallonian Rye

2010-06-25T08:05:00.001-04:00

Most of Flying Fish's iconic exit series beers have been winners in my book, so I was excited to try the new Exit 6 - Wallonian Rye. As they describe it:

For our fifth stop, we journey to Exit 6. This part of Burlington County was settled by Dutch Walloons (now Belgians) whose first order of business was to build a fort–and then a tavern. The area has always had a rich agricultural heritage and we’re using locally grown rye as an appreciation of our farmers past and present.

Exit 6 starts out as a deceptively simple recipe–pale malt augmented by 20 percent rye, fermented with a classic Belgian yeast. But then it gets interesting with the hops: English East Kent Goldings, Slovenian Styrian Goldings and Japanese Sorachi Ace.

The result is a rich saffron color with a spicy character from the rye and lemony citrus notes from the unique Sorachi Ace hops.

It does pour a nice straw color with some cloudiness and a spicy, lemony aroma. The taste follows suite with some coriander and citrus flavors. The carbonation is fairly light with a dry almost sour finish to it. A very solid effort once again.
B

Ommegang Brewey Tour

2010-06-20T23:18:00.002-04:00

Wonderful afternoon today spent touring the Ommegang Brewery in Cooperstown NY. Perhaps my favorite US brewery, I was shocking at how truly small their operation was. Despite the brevity of the tour, I truly enjoyed (surprise) the sampling at the end with each of their special brews being matched with beer flavored cheese. Spent more than I should have in the store (another surprise). The kids were quite patient with dad for Fathers Day weekend!

I highly recommend a stop if you find yourself in central NY.

Summer Love

2010-05-30T23:30:00.000-04:00

For Year Two of the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation's] “With Love, Philadelphia XOXO” campaign, they have teamed up with Victory Brewing Company to create With Love, Philadelphia XOXO’s Summer Love Ale.

It’s brewed locally in Chester County with pale malts, German hops and Brandywine River water, and will start flowing freely at bars and restaurants throughout the city, region and country in time for Philly Beer Week.

They settled on a golden ale style due to this style’s broad appeal with exciting hop notes. Per Victory, here are details on the brew:
- Vibrant and refreshing pale color derived from lean and refreshing malt body
- Initially floral aroma of hops will segue in to well integrated, refreshing hop dryness of European heritage

The Summer Love ale is a liquid history of Philadelphia’s prominence in the brewing world – and that’s why it fits perfectly as a way to promote Philadelphia and The Countryside.

Yards Earth Day Empty Case Extravaganza

2010-04-21T06:49:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow from 12-7pm in honor of Earth Day, Yards Brewing Company is inviting you to bring your empty cases or six-packs to Yards, fill them up with your favorites and go home a few bucks richer. Come to Yards, reuse your cases and six-packs and we can all be greener together. Six-packs save you $1. Cases save you $3. They'd prefer that both are Yards, but really any brand will do. So stop by, say hi and we'll all do our part in helping to reduce waste.

The details:
Limit four six-packs per customer and two cases per customer.
You can combine the two, but you can't exceed $10 in discounted value.
Offer only available from noon to 7 PM on April 22.

Yards Brewing Company - Pennsylvania's 1st 100% Wind-Powered Brewery.

Sweaty Betty Blonde

2010-04-20T07:14:00.001-04:00

Picked up a case of Boulder Beer's Sweaty Betty after having sample this on tap last week. It is a refreshing summer blonde ale that pours a cloudy yellow with a small white head. The smell is light with notes of wheat and citrus.

The wheat moves to the forefront in the taste with clove and banana on the backend. The carbonation could be abit higher, but all in all a nice spring brew. Smooth, tasty refreshing - I'd give this one a B

Troegs' Harrisburg BrewersFest

2010-04-19T06:23:00.002-04:00

Coming up on June 19 (and perhaps lost to us here in Philly - basking in the glow of Philly Beer Week) is the seventh annual Harrisburg BrewersFest in downtown Harrisburg. Hosted by Troegs Brewing Company, this event is guaranteed to sell out early, so buy your tickets now. The day has two sessions to choose from, both ripe with handcrafted ales, stouts, pilsners and lagers from nearly 50 brewers from all over the country.

The BrewersFest happens rain or shine. Tickets are $40 per person. As always, all proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Buy your tickets online: www.troegs.com.

Foundations of Beer Diploma

2010-04-18T06:34:00.002-04:00

From TMR Zoo:

Philadelphia can now boast a distinct advantage over any other beer loving city in the country. This week the Philly Beer School is rolling out the ultimate brewing program for beer enthusiasts, the Foundations of Beer Diploma.

The Diploma is a must-have for all amateur brewers. Led by Master Brewer Dean Browne, the program will include classes on brewing, beer styles, beer and food pairing, and the science of fermenting, all designed to set the novice on his or her path to creating award-winning homebrews.

More details here.

Victory Square back on track?

2010-04-17T16:39:00.000-04:00

The Morning Call reports:

Casino revenues from Monroe County will get a planned downtown Easton brewery and restaurant back on track after nearly a year of delays, officials said Wednesday.

The proposed Victory Square Brewery will benefit from a $450,000 grant approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. The money is from slots revenues at Mount Airy Casino Resort, which the authority is distributing in Monroe and six adjoining counties, Mayor Sal Panto Jr. said.

''We've been pushing for this probably for the last seven months,'' Panto said. ''Without this grant, [the project] would not have happened.''

The office of state Rep. Robert Freeman announced the award in a news release Wednesday. Both Freeman and Panto had worked to persuade state officials to help fund the project, the release states.

The money is to be granted to the Easton Redevelopment Authority, which will then loan it to Victory Square Brewery's developers, said Gretchen Lippincott, the city's economic development director.

Freeman's office put the project's total cost at $2.26 million, though its backers had initially estimated it at $3.5 million.

In March 2009, officials at Victory Brewing Co. of Downingtown, Chester County, and the owners of the Farmhouse restaurant in Emmaus announced they were partnering to open a 300-seat restaurant and brewery in the building that had housed the Weller Health Education Center at 325 Northampton St.

The partners originally planned to open a brewpub in the former Pomeroy's Department Store across Northampton Street, but at that time the building's redevelopment had stalled. The Pomeroy's building was later bought by other developers.

Last year, Art Schmidt Jr. of the Farmhouse said the partners had a $1.5 million agreement of sale on the Weller building and were working on the financing, hoping to have the brewpub open by fall 2009.

The property's deed still hasn't changed hands, according to county records.

Celebrate Earth Day

2010-04-17T07:30:00.001-04:00

Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse (1823 Sansom) will be hosting Dock Street Brewing's “Brew & Chew” Earth Day celebration this Thursday April 22nd from 8-10.

It is a 2 hour open bar pairing Dock Street's “Rye IPA”, “Summer Session”, “Bohemian Royal Pilsner” and “Man Full of Trouble Porter”, with four different tapas style appetizers. Each one of these pairings is offered throughout the 2 hour Event with the the brewers talking about all of the beers and food pairings. Tickets are only $15.

The final weekend in the Original Sly Fox Brewhouse

2010-04-16T07:48:00.000-04:00

The big move across the street has begun and this Sunday will be the last day to grab a pint at the Original Sly Fox Brewhouse in Phoenixville. They expect this last weekend of business will be one long party, saying goodbye to the old and anticipating the new. As much as we will miss the old site, I look forward to seeing what they have in store in a new more modern environment. The folks at Sly Fox rarely disappoint!

Top 50 Craft Brewing Companies

2010-04-14T18:44:00.002-04:00

The Top 50 Craft Brewing list is out from the Brewers Association and quite honestly I am stunned that only 2 of our local brethren made the cut: Victory and Dogfish Head. There are many wonderful brewers on this list but with the plethora of beer makers in this area I cannot believe that others fell so short.

You can find the list here.

Hop Angel Brauhaus

2010-04-13T18:21:00.000-04:00

Mike "Scoats" Scotese, the owner of the Grey Lodge Pub on Frankford Avenue has purchased the Blue Ox Bistro in the Fox Chase section of the city. The plan is to reopen the site as the Hop Angel Brauhaus late this summer.

The building at 7980 Oxford Avenue dates back to 1683 and has been noted for German beer and food for the last century. The previous owners spent a good deal of effort redoing the menu and atmosphere until little of the German heritage remained. Not surprisingly, they struggled mightily.

This new venture will return to the site’s roots with a German themed menu and a tap list heavily dependent on German imports.

I am sure the success of the Brauhaus Schmitz down on South Street has changed many minds about the viability of German-themed restaurants these days. Fresh, creative, unusual and ultimately ethnic food along with a well thought-out beer list can create a lot of excitement in a city that seems to really take to places that put out the effort to be unique.

2010 World Beer Cup

2010-04-11T15:59:00.005-04:00

3330 beers were entered this year, representing 642 breweries from 44 countries!

The US lead the way with 204 total medals. California was tops among the states with 45 medals in all.

The big local winner was Iron Hill for the Large Brewpub Category.

Devil's Den ups the ante

2010-04-08T13:12:00.003-04:00

Great review by Philadelphia Weekly of my favorite place to chow and drink in South Philly, Devil's Den (1148 S. 11th St). They have a new chef which is damn exciting.

Seriously you should check it out.

Now.

Duvel, Gnocchi, Phillies and Presidential Trivia

2010-04-07T12:41:00.003-04:00

Yep just another Wednesday night at the Black Sheep. Pleasant, laid-back and unassuming, this is a favorite Center City hang-out. It isn't crowded with beer geeks or tourists. You won't see a big Inquirer story about the tap rotations or the menu. But if you want to sit back and relax for awhile, I always find this to be the spot to settle. Oh yes and the Wednesday night Quizzo rocks.

2 Months To Go

2010-04-04T16:19:00.000-04:00

Love foreign beer commercials

2010-04-02T06:47:00.001-04:00

Hell Or High Watermelon Wheat Beer

2010-03-30T21:03:00.002-04:00

Never a big fan of watermelon beers, I have tried quite a few over the years and never liked more than one. Hell Or High Watermelon Wheat Beer from 21st Amendment Brewery in San Francisco did come highly recommended however. I have liked other 21st Amendment brews so I decided to put my watermelon aversion aside and delve into this one.

I should have gone with my initial instinct to avoid this.

From the can it pours a cloudy yellow with a small weak head that dissipates quickly. The aroma is overwhelmingly of watermelon with some grain poking through. The taste is surprisingly bland. The watermelon falvor is overdone and dominates when it should accentuate. The beer overall is watery and a bit flat.

On the plus side it does go down easy and I did plow through several while doing yard work. Really not my style though. Next time I'll think twice. D

Happy Hour for a Good Cause

2010-03-06T08:13:00.001-05:00

This Tuesday from 6-9pm, Cantina Dos Segundos (931 N. 2nd, NoLibs) will be hosting a Happy Hour to benefit Sister Mary's Project H.O.M.E.

20% of the proceeds will go to this wonderful charity.

Rogue Chipolte Ale, fresh guac and warm tostadas - and its for charity? I'm in...

The End of the Rugged Trail

2010-03-05T06:38:00.000-05:00

It's always sad when one of your favorite beers goes away. Troegs in Harrisburg has announced that their deicious nut brown ale, Rugged Trail Ale, is being discontinued. It seems that the last batch of Rugged Trail was brewed in mid-February and has been shipped from the brewery for the final time.

“It’s never easy to discontinue a beer,” says Chris Trogner. “We have looked at numerous options to try to keep Rugged Trail in the picture, but we just couldn’t make it work with the other beers we are producing.”

RIP Rugged Trail

3 Months To Go

2010-03-04T07:18:00.000-05:00

Love foreign beer commercials

2010-03-02T06:44:00.000-05:00

Monk's Mad Monday

2010-02-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow at Monk's (16th & Spruce), there will be six Russian River beers on tap at the front bar starting at 11:30AM. They only have one keg of a few of these rarities, so get there early. They will limit some of these to one per guest because they are in such limited supply.

THE IPAs

Russian River Pliney The Younger (limit of one per guest)

Russian River Pliney The Elder

Russian River Blind Pig

THE 'TIONS

Russian River Temptation (limit of one per guest)

Russian River Consecration

Russian River Supplication (limit of one per guest)

Baltic Maple Porter

2010-02-27T12:49:00.003-05:00

Dropped by Dock Street (701 S. 50th St) last night on a recommendation from a friend to try out their Baltic Maple Porter which I was chastised for having failed to write about yet. And yes of course we induldged in some of Philly's best pizza too.

Wow this is a very intense beer. It is beautifully dark and dense with little head. The aroma is darn near intoxicating with the flavors of brown sugar, caramel and maple syrup rising up.

The taste follows suit with the maple flavor doing battle with the roasted malts ending in a surprisingly sweet finish. Even at 8% ABV, this is amazingly drinkable.

If you have not sample this one at Dock Street yet, make sure you try some soon. This may be the best brew that have created (and I love the Man Full o Trouble porter).

Philly Foods & Philly Brews

2010-02-26T06:25:00.002-05:00

Now I am glad to see these good local food/good local beer pairing catch on! Today through March 7, Bridget Foy’s (2nd & South) will be serving up a Philly Foods & Philly Brews menu.

The three course menu looks like this:

STARTER

Cheese Steak Soup
Paired with: Flying Fish ESB

Roasted Pork and Broccoli Rabe Spring Rolls
Paired with: Stoudt’s Scarlet Lady

Deconstructed Hoagie Salad
Paired with: Dogfish Head 60 Min. IPA

ENTRÉE

Sausage and Peppers over Creamy Polenta
Paired with: Troegs Nugget Nector

Herr’s Crusted Fish and Chips with Kenzinger Beer Batter
Paired with: Philadelphia Brewing Co. Kenzinger

Scrapple Stuffed Pork Loin with Maple Lager Glaze
Paired with: Sly Fox Seamus Red Ale

DESSERT

O’Reilly Stout float with Bassett’s Vanilla Ice Cream
Paired with: Sly Fox O’Reilly Stout

Butterscotch Krimpet Tiramisu made with Dock Street Sexual Chocolate
Paired with: Dock Street Sexual Chocolate

Chocolate Pretzel Tart
Paired with: Sly Fox O’Reilly Stout

A Lighter Coffee Brew?

2010-02-25T18:18:00.003-05:00

Victory's Bill Covaleski is working with a local coffee shop to develop a new type of coffee beer. Not your typical coffee-infused stout, this brew will focus on the “lighter aspects” of coffee and create a lighter-colored coffee beer.

The Milton-Rome-NYC Connection

2010-02-24T17:11:00.000-05:00

Yes yes I know this a story about a Delaware brewer working with brewers from Italy to make a beer for a brewpub in NYC, but it is pretty damn cool nonetheless.

The News Journal:

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery and three other brewers are joining forces with the powerhouse restaurant team of Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich to create Italian-style beers for a New York City rooftop brewery-pub that’s scheduled to open in late summer.

Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head in Milton will be making suds along with Italian brewer Teo Musso, brewmaster of Rome’s Birrificio Le Baladin; Leonardo Di Vincenzo of Birra del Borgo near Rome and Vinnie Cilurzo of the Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, Calif., for a venture to be known as Eataly.

Eataly is a Batali/Bastianich project that will encompass an Italian specialty foods market and multiple restaurants at 200 Fifth Ave., as well as an 8,000 square foot rooftop brewery and restaurant. The site will offer views of the Empire State Building.

Celebrity chef Batali, one of the Food Network’s Iron Chefs, and Bastianich, the son of PBS star Lidia Bastianich, own at least 15 restaurants together.

The four brewers met in Boston last week to test their first batch of Eataly beer, an English Mild ale fermented with Italian chestnut powder.

The Eataly house beers – unpasteurized, unfiltered and naturally carbonated – will feature Italian and American ingredients. The four individual brewers also will occasionally brew beers under their own names.

PW's bar awards

2010-02-23T17:47:00.002-05:00

Philadelphia Weekly discovers the Dock Street growler and other bar gems across our fair city.

Reason #1 Why Philly Will Never Get The Olympics...

2010-02-22T17:01:00.002-05:00

.....We would never shut down our bars!

Inquirer: Beer sales stopped in Vancouver

3rd Annual Philadelphia Real Ale Invitational

2010-02-21T17:38:00.000-05:00

Coming up quickly on Sunday March 21 is the 3rd annual Philadelphia Real Ale Invitational. It is returning to Yards Brewing Company for the second consecutive year. This incredible event features the nations finest cask ale producers and offers attendees the oppurtunity to try a variety of unique flavors. Cask ale has a deep rooted tradition in the Philadelphia beer scene and it is only natural that the showpiece event will be held at the brewery that resurrected that style of beer.

Attendees will enjoy a variety of benefits. The event will showcase approximately 20 different cask conditioned beers (it may be more, but not less) and attendees will have the oppurtunity to sample all of them. Each attendant will also receive a commerative 12oz mug. Food will be provided. All of this will take place while the Jazz Horses are returning from last year (theyr'e sick) to provide some great music.

One change to note from last year, all of this will take place in the entire Yards Brewing Company space. Attendants will have the oppurtunity to mingle throughout Philadelphia's most sustainable brewery while enjoying the finest beer around. From the recently finished tasting room to the bottling line, you can enjoy everything that Yards Brewing Co. has to offer.

This event has sold out in previous years, so be sure to purchase your tickets early.

VIP tickets are very limited and will gain access to the event one hour early and will receive a private tour of the brewery with Tom Kehoe. They will also have the oppurtunity to try something special from Yards Brewing Co.

Don't Forget to Vote

2010-02-19T20:43:00.001-05:00

Philly Beer Scene is proud to announce it's first ever "Best of the Philly Beer Scene" awards. They have narrowed down 35 categories of all things beer. Then, each founder nominated one exceptional selection fitting each category, giving each category, four options for the Scene to vote on. They also included the ability for you to select your own "Best of."

To vote, just click here.

A Politician With Some Common Sense

2010-02-16T17:12:00.000-05:00

Today's Inquirer:

By Angela Couloumbis

HARRISBURG - A Montgomery County senator is championing a bill to allow Pennsylvanians to buy six-packs of beer at grocery and convenience stores, as well as their local beer distributors.

"Its time for Pennsylvania to move from an antiquated and unsafe system to one that is modern, safer and customer-friendly," Republican Sen. John Rafferty Jr. said at a beer rally this morning in the Capitol, where he unveiled his legislation. "This proposal has overwhelming public support."

As it stands now, consumers can purchase only cases of beer – which contain four six-packs – at beer distributorships. Although they can buy up to two six-packs at a bar or restaurant, it's often at a steep cost, since those places tend to greatly mark up the price.

A few supermarkets have recently been allowed to sell wine and beer at select locations, but for the most part, the state's beer laws don't make it convenient to pick up a six-pack.

"We're interested in seeing that the people of Pennsylvania who want to purchase beer, purchase it where they want to," Rafferty told a crowd of several hundred supporters this morning.

Rafferty's bill would also require 100 percent "carding" – meaning everyone, no matter how old they look, would have to show their driver's license - with electronic verification machines to ensure that minors are not purchasing alcohol illegally.

It would also provide for strengthened enforcement efforts and age compliance checks, to be funded through a $25,000 beer license fee and annual fees of $2,500.

There have been past efforts to change beer laws, all unsuccessful. But the bill's proponents hope the recent momentum of allowing some supermarkets to sell alcohol will ease the resistance by many lawmakers toward changing the law.

Donnybrook Stout

2010-02-07T18:41:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite Victory creations (and the one I cannot bring home in a growler because of the nitro tap) is their dry Irish stout, Donnybrook.

This stout, as you would expect, pours a deep dark black with a rich full cream-colored head that had good retention and lacing. It has a great nose of roasted malt, chocolate and nuts.

The creamy flavor is simple but enjoyable with the roasted grains coming though and a finish that is sweet and dry.

At just 3.5% ABV, this a great lunchtime or session beer, and one of the real hidden gems of Victory's brewpub.

Philly Craft Beer Fest

2010-02-06T07:32:00.002-05:00

On March 6th, the 4th Annual Philly Craft Beer festival returns to the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at the Navy Yard (5100 South Broad Street) with over 50 different breweries proudly showing off their brews. Tickets for either the afternoon or evening session are $45 and can be purchased here.

4 Months To Go

2010-02-04T16:17:00.002-05:00

Love foreign beer commercials

2010-02-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

The Trouble with Trippels

2010-01-29T08:07:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow beginning at 11am, Johnny Brenda's will be bringing us all the three-baggers we can handle. Not a bad way to spend the first Saturday with no football. They will be rolling out:

Sly Fox Incubus
Weyerbacher Merry Monks
Stoudts Triple
Manayunk Triple (Monk from the 'Yunk)
Iron Hill Triple
Riverhorse Triple
Flying Fish Exit 4 (American Trippel)
Legacy Euphoria
Victory Golden Monkey
Dock Street Prisoner of Hell

In addition they will have special food on the menu including: Sausage, Terrine, and Charcuterie.

Growlers on the rise

2010-01-27T14:18:00.000-05:00

The New York Times discovers the growing trend of growlers:

Growlers — 64-ounce glass vessels that look like a moonshine jug — have become the beer accessory of the moment. And the jugs, filled at taps in bars and stores, are not just the toys of the bearded, flannel-shirt, beer-geek set.

“In the beginning we tried to figure out, ‘Who’s going to be our market?’ ” said Ben Granger, 32, an owner of Bierkraft, which began filling growlers in spring 2006. “We thought, mullet-heads and beer-bellied dudes. But the first run was ladies with strollers. They will tell you they’re buying them for their husbands. Three weeks later, they’ve got two. One’s his and one’s hers. The next one that caught me by surprise was dads coming in with their kids. Then there’s the beer crowd who’ll rush in to get on this or that before it’s gone. There’s no age limit.”

The Head House

2010-01-27T06:07:00.002-05:00

Looks like the former ZoT's location will be seeing new life. It is a nice property in what should be a great neighborhood for both residential and tourist business. Hopefully, Bruce does a better job at running a business and maintaining a staff than the previous owner at this spot did. Press release:

Philadelphia Beer Week co-founder and president of Museum Catering, Bruce Nichols is thrilled to announce that he will partner with Madame Saito to open The Head House (122 Lombard Street), a restaurant and beer bar with more than 20 craft taps and beer-friendly foods located on Philadelphia’s historic Head House Square. The Head House will also become a new location for Museum Catering with a private event space to accommodate up to 100 people on the restaurant's second floor. The Head House will serve dinner seven days a week and is slated to open in March. More details will be available as the opening nears.

SPTR Beef n Beer

2010-01-26T06:58:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, January 31st the South Philadelphia Tap Room (1509 Mifflin) will host their second annual Beef and Beer from 5-9pm. Tickets are $50 per person for this all you can eat & drink event.

Don’t expect a traditional beef and beer. There will be no dry as the desert hunk of what may or may not be pot roast. None of the brews will be followed by the word “Lite.” Instead, think all you can eat hormone-free prime rib and all you can drink firkins from your favorite local breweries.

Beer will include firkins of Tröegs Nugget Nectar, Weyerbacher Hops Infusion, Sly Fox Chester County Bitter and Philadelphia Brewing Company’s newest seasonal, a Scotch Ale – in addition to a few additional real ale surprises.

Chef Scott Schroeder will prepare a slow roasted hormone & antibiotic free prime rib accompanied by house-made goodies like marinated mushrooms, au jus and horseradish. Also expect to feast on house-smoked brisket tacos & classic beef tartar topped with black pepper sabayon -- both made from local, grass-fed beef.

Tickets are available for purchase at SPTR, over the phone at 215.271.7787, or at http://www.southphiladelphiataproom.com.

Happy Birthday Pop

2010-01-25T08:11:00.000-05:00

Dad turns 75 today. You know we will be raising a pint or two today!

Pierogie Week

2010-01-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Starting today at the Green Rock Tavern (2546 East Lehigh Ave), its Pierogie Week!

They will be pairing 7 kinds of homemade pierogies with 7 Philadelphia Brewing Company beers. Now that's an event: terrific food paired with great beer. Trust me, there is nothing better than fresh homemade pierogies, not that frozen store bought stuff.

Come out and try a delicious change of pace.

Belgium Comes to West Chester

2010-01-23T07:04:00.003-05:00

Iron Hill's 4th annual Belgian style beer tasting, appropriately named Belgium Comes to West Chester, is scheduled for Saturday, February 6th 2010 starting at 2:00p.m. (3 West Gay Street, West Chester. Currently they have 28 brewers and over 30 beers committed to the event.

Here’s what the list looks like so far:
Cambridge Brewing Company Tripel Threat
Cambridge Brewing Company Weekepaug Gruit
Devil’s Backbone something
Dogfish Red and White
Earth Bread and Brewery Trappist Pale Ale
Flying Fish Exit 4 American Trippel
Harpoon Jed’s Donkey
Iron Hill Lancaster Oak Quad
Iron Hill Mapleshade Heywood
Iron Hill Media Cassis
Iron Hill North Wales Peppercorn Tripel
Iron Hill Phoenixville Tripelsec
Iron Hill West Chester Cherry Dubbel
Iron Hill West Chester Farmer Chuck
Iron Hill West Chester Framboise
Iron Hill West Chester Lambic
Iron Hill Wilmington Nocturnum
Ithica something
Manayunk Yunkers nocturnem
McKenzies Vatour du Bois
Nodding Head Rudys Kung Fu grip
Rock Bottom Grand Cru
Sly Fox Dale’s Dark Saison
Stewart’s Obscurum
Stoudt’s Tripel (sixer)
Troeg’s Mad Elf
Victory Abbey 5
Weyerbacher Fourteen
Yards Bart

Crisis in Belgium?

2010-01-22T17:51:00.001-05:00

Time magazine has a great story out on the turmoil at InBev in Belgium: blockades of breweries, hostages, looming strikes, court interventions. It's fascinating stuff, even if it may shorten our supply of Stella, Hoegaarden and Leffe for awhile. (Photo :Reuters Pictures)

Philadelphia Beer Experience Walking Tour

2010-01-22T08:14:00.001-05:00

This Saturday, Rolling Barrel Events will be hosting a beer tour of the Fairmount section. Group will meet at 11:00 am at the Belgian Cafe (2047 Green Street). Cost is $32.50 per person.

It was only a matter of time until we gave some love to this section of town. Join us for our inaugural walk as we taste our way through Rolling Barrel’s top four places to grab a beer in Fairmount. Passes include beer samples at all four locations, plus a guided tour and other surprises along the way. Warm clothes and comfortable shoes are highly encouraged.

They will be stopping over at Belgian Cafe, Jack’s Firehouse, London Grill and of course Bridgid’s. Great time to take in Eastern State Penitentiary as well.

Cold Point Pub

2010-01-21T16:34:00.000-05:00

The Inquirer's food columnist Rick Nichols ventures out to the Whole Foods in Plymouth Meeting. Other folks in more progressive states may laugh at the fuss over a small tavern with beer access in a store, but its a huge step here.

But there was a Door No. 2, 50 feet away. And if you hooked an immediate left after entering it, an entirely different reality loomed: the Cold Point Pub.

Let us revise that. It was a different reality for suburban Philadelphia - a 28-seat tavern tucked in the bosom of a 45,000-square-foot supermarket, offering a modest menu, wine by the glass, beer by the pint, and local craft beers (Victory, Yards, Sly Fox, etc.) and imported beers in six-packs to go.

At other Whole Foods - in Los Angeles' Fairfax neighborhood, say, or in D.C. - beer and wine are sold as staples, treated no more exotically than the olive bar.

In Plymouth Meeting, the new wrinkle was a conversation piece: "I like that you can try a bottle at a time, and see if you like it before putting out $150 for a case," said Larry Herman, an electrical contractor, nursing a Troegs Rugged Trail Nut Brown Ale with his slice of pizza.

The Cold Point isn't exactly what you'd call a cheating bar. Its windows look out on the back of the checkout lanes, and the two-for-$4 tortilla-bag specials; its interior has the crisp impersonality of a Starbucks.

But it is a baby step toward mainstreaming beer and wine sales, making them more a part of daily shopping and dining; what's for supper, not just the stadium (or the sports bar or freshman binge-drinking). Normalizing the stuff, in other words.

Even so, it's not exactly the Wild West: Whole Foods has a state "tavern license," which means that the pub is on a separate register, that half its sales are booze, that the total amount of beer you can take out is 192 ounces (roughly 16 12-ounce bottles or three 64-ounce growlers).

To drink a glass of wine, you buy a smart card, insert it in a slot, and get 1-, 3- and 6-ounce pours from a vending machine stocked with what appeared to be French, Italian, and German wines - San Michele all'Adige Pinot Nero 2006, for instance, or Hirsch Riesling "Zobing" 2008. (Bottles of wine cannot be purchased to take home. Or what, the sky would fall?)

So it went in Plymouth Meeting, at a tiny pub a small step forward - the state's twisted posture on alcohol sales slightly relaxed.

Robbie Burns Birthday Bash

2010-01-21T06:55:00.002-05:00

Robbie Burns "The Bard" is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. Sly Fox in Phoenixville celebrates his birthday tomorrow starting at 5pm. The Eighth Annual Robbie Burns Birthday Bash means bagpipers and kilts, customers reciting the great Scottish poet's verses, and the traditional piping in of the Haggis, as well as the release of Sly Fox Gang Aft Agley Scotch Ale 2010.

The Burns birthday celebration has become one of the most anticipated Sly Fox annual events so don't miss it!

Love foreign beer commercials

2010-01-20T07:40:00.001-05:00

St. Victorious Dopplebock

2010-01-19T06:08:00.007-05:00

Just finished a growler of the from Victory. It pours a nice amber color with a decent tan head. The aroma is dominated by the strong malt scent with some berry in there too.

Taste is not unexpectedly dominated by the malts with lots of flavors fighting for attention: raisins, berries, chocolate and molasses. It brings a nice warm sweetness to the palate that is complementary and not distracting at all.

This is a very smooth beer, a bit thin and light on carbonation, but very easy to drink. Surprising little alcohol flavor considering the 8.5% ABV.

B+

Flyish Fish Oyster Stout video

2010-01-18T16:13:00.000-05:00

Gene Muller from Flying Fish discusses the Exit Series and the Exit 1 Oyster Stout in particular.

Sly Fox head brewer Brian O'Reilly

2010-01-18T07:41:00.000-05:00

An interview with Sly Fox head brewer (and Stout namesake) Brian O'Reilly from the AV Club. Money quote:

Brian O'Reilly on creating a well-balanced dry stout…

I’ve always liked the drinkability of dry stouts, whether it’s Murphy, Beamish, or Guinness. Those are the big three. So more than anything I tried to figure out what they had in common. I came up with lower alcohol, lower original gravity, a lot of hops bitterness but not much hops flavor or aroma, and then that dry-roasted barley flavor. I started trying to make a beer that would taste like that, and then I worked on getting it so it would pour like those beers as well. I first brewed it as a seasonal beer. And then I brewed it again and again, making small adjustments but nothing major.

Yuengling bottles Bock Beer

2010-01-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

Last year, Yuengling brought back their Bock Beer for the first time in 40 years as part of their 180th anniversary celebration.

This dark, rich brew had been only available on draft, and the brewery was inundated with requests from beer fans for a bottled version. The fine folks in Pottsville listened and will be releasing kegs and bottles for a limited time starting tomorrow.

“Last year, there were many loyal customers looking for Bock in bottles to take home and enjoy with family and friends, but it was not available. There’s a great deal of consumer excitement that it’s coming back in draft and package,” said Lou Romano, Yuengling spokesman.

PA’s Disgraceful Liquor Laws

2010-01-16T17:14:00.002-05:00

Great article this week in Philadelphia Weekly depicting the labyrinth of PA's liquor laws and just how insane the PLCB really is.

Maxim Top Beers of 2009

2010-01-16T08:12:00.002-05:00

And here is the list of the top 25 beers of 2009 according to Maxim magazine. Of course the validity of this is thrown out completely by their choice for #11, but the list still does include a number of local brews:

1. Butternuts Beer & Ale Porkslap Pale Ale
2. Widmer Brothers Drifter Pale Ale
3. Great Divide Hoss ("Best Name")
4. New Belgium Hoptober ("Staff's No.1")
5. Victory Helios Ale
6. Oskar Blues Ten Fidy
7. Pyramid Haywire
8. Sam Adams Noble Pils
9. Sierra Nevada Torpedo
10. Clipper City Marz Hon
11. Bud Light Golden Wheat (whaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?)
12. 21st Amendment Brew Free! Or Die IPA
13. Dogfish Head Indian Brown
14. North Coast Old Stock
15. Foothills Sexual Chocolate
16. Deschutes Green Lakes Organic Ale
17. Upslope Pale Ale ("Best Pale Ale")
18. Intercourse Brewing Blue Ball Porter
19. Ballast Point Calico
20. New Glarus Fat Squirrel
21. Brooklyn Local 1 ("Best Wine Sub")
22. Barley Brown's Tumble Off
23. Firestone Walker Union Jack ("Best IPA")
24. Harpoon UFO White
25. Sly Fox Phoenix

Maxim toasts Philly's beer scene

2010-01-15T17:03:00.000-05:00

It is nice to see some national recognition for what we have known around here for a very longtime.

Michael Klein in today's Inquirer:

Maxim mag, which you read for the articles anyway, drops this bombshell in February's issue in a spread about beer:

"Sure, Portland, Oregon, still produces great suds (Widmer, Hopworks) — and, yes, you P-town natives are so cool because you all can telemark ski — but the crown of Best Beer Town has been swiped from you guys and smuggled back east to the scrappy and beer-soaked City of Brotherly Love."

The story gives a shout-out to Philly Beer Week and provides a history lesson ("The Constitution was hatched while dudes in wigs knocked back beer in Philadelphia taverns. Ben Franklin says so: 'Beer is living proof that God loves us and wants to see us happy.'”).

Singled out for praise were Victory Brewing's Helios Ale, Dogfish Head's Indian Brown, Sly Fox's Phoenix Pale Ale, and Intercourse's Blue Ball. OK, so they're not in the city proper, but still...

FreeTheHikers scotch ale

2010-01-14T08:01:00.001-05:00

Earth Bread + Brewery (7136 Germantown Ave.) now has FreeTheHikers Scotch Ale on tap.

For each glass of Ale sold, a donation by EB+B will be made to the families of the 3 Americans who are imprisoned in Iran (since July 31, 2009). One of the hikers, Josh Fattal, grew up in Cheltenham. They have dedicated this brew to their plight, so come visit Earth and drink to a good cause. Help bring awareness to the situation, and help Free the Hikers.

Drinking for a Good Cause

2010-01-13T06:58:00.003-05:00

You can drink and do some good this coming Saturday. A few Drexel seniors are holding a PA Micro-Brew Fest Fundraiser for the computer automated brewing team at Drexel. They are looking to fund their senior design project -- a computer controlled brewing system. What a truly noble cause!

The event will be this Saturday, January 16th at the Blockley Pourhouse (for you fellow old schoolers: the old Chestnut Cabaret) at 38th & Ludlow from 4-8pm.

You can purchase advance tickets for the event for $20 or pay $25 at the door. At the Blockley on Saturday you will enjoy microbrews from some of our area’s best brewers like Yards, McKenzies, Sly Fox, Appalachian and Rock Bottom.

Good beer and a good cause – the perfect excuse to drink!

One Giant Beer Company

2010-01-12T06:33:00.001-05:00

Are we heading towards the days when AnheuserInbevSABMillerCoorsHeineken will make all of the world's beer? Things sure seem to be heading in that direction!

Whole Foods at Plymouth Meeting Mall

2010-01-11T21:55:00.001-05:00

Michael Klein in the Inquirer has the scoop on the the Whole Foods store opening tomorrow at Plymouth Meeting Mall (500 W. Germantown Pike). They will have a rooftop cafe and sit-down pub serving beer and wine -- innovative in some ways (at least by PA standards) and infuriating in other (no bottled beer sales?).

I am glad to see the LCB branching out but we still seem to be moving at a snail's pace towards better retail beer establishments.

Bell's Winter White Ale

2010-01-10T13:02:00.000-05:00

Dove into a few glasses of Bell’s Winter White (Michigan) today. It is a hazy yellow pour with a big fluffy head that dissipates quickly but leaves a nice residue.

The aroma is a fairly strong mix of clove and fruit (banana, lemon). It is one of those scents that really draws you into a beer, and the taste does not disappoint. Strong wheat flavor with the fruit and spices along for the ride. Light and very well balanced with just the right level of carbonation, it produces a pleasant hoppy finish and a lot of lingering fruit flavors.

At 4.5% ABV, this is a seriously delicious and extremely drinkable session beer. I had made up my mind to have just one and sample a few other offerings but settled in with this for the afternoon. Trust me, it was not a bad choice!

Tasty Looking Video

2010-01-09T17:20:00.003-05:00

Something new for your to-do list:

Vote For The Best Craft Beer Of 2009

2010-01-08T17:24:00.002-05:00

The Full Pint is looking for votes for the Best Craft Beer of 2009. You can vote here.

There are five local brews on the list: Victory Yakima Twilight, Iron Hill Honey Do Wit, Flying Fish Exit 1 Bayshore Oyster Stout, Troegs Flying Mouflan and Dogfish Head Sahtea.

Voting ends January 22.

The perfect birthday cake

2010-01-07T17:18:00.002-05:00

OK kids, here is what dad would like on his birthday.....hint hint.

The 5 Best of 2009

2010-01-05T07:35:00.002-05:00

Todd Shaner at the CourierPost publishes his list of the 5 Best Beers of 2009. I may differ with his order but it is difficult to argue his choices: Dock Street Great Pumpkin, Captain Sig’s Northwestern Ale (mmmm), Founders Imperial Stout, Russian River Pliny the Elder and Flying Fish Exit 1: The Bayshore Oyster Stout.

5 Months To Go

2010-01-04T16:16:00.000-05:00

Love foreign beer commercials

2010-01-02T16:10:00.001-05:00

Christmas Kick the Keg Night

2009-12-23T08:08:00.003-05:00

Local 44 (44th & Spruce) wants your help tonight.

They will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but before they take a well deserved break they need you to come help finish all the beer left in the lines. So tonight starting at 9pm when everything on draft is just $3, until the kegs run dry!

Monk's Christmas Kegs

2009-12-19T08:33:00.000-05:00

Monk's Cafe (16th & Spruce) is pulling out all the holiday stops starting Monday at 11:30am. They'll be tapping 15 Christmas kegs plus dozens of bottles. The keg list:

From Belgium

Alvinne brings us the Three Wise Men:

Alvinne Balthazar (spiced w/ginger, cardamon & coriander)

Alvinne Gaspar (lots of hops)

Alvinne Melichior (with mustard seed)

Corsendonk Christmas Ale

De Koninck Winter Koninck

DeRanke Pere Noel

Dupont Avec Les Bon Veoux

Geants Noel

La Rulles Cuvée Meilleurs Voeux

Scaldis Noel

St Bernardus Christmas Ale

St. Feuillien Cuvee Noel

From the United States

Bell’s Christmas Ale

Lost Abbey Gift of the Magi

Port Brewing Santa’s Little Helper

Firkins For Our Furry Friends

2009-12-18T09:53:00.000-05:00

This Saturday you can get your drink on at the Khyber Pass (56 S. 2nd St) and benefit friends of the four-legged variety.

The Khyber will be hosting a Firkins For Our Furry Friends party from 1 PM - 8 PM (or until the beer kicks). $25 gets you bottomless of cups of some amazing beers – all being poured from firkins!

The line-up includes:
Yards Porter
Stoudts Fat Dog Imperial Oatmeal Stout
PBC Shackamaximum
Sly Fox Chester County Bitter

All of the beers have been graciously donated by the breweries, and 100% of the proceeds will go to PAWS.

Flying Fish Grand Cru Winter Reserve

2009-12-17T06:44:00.000-05:00

Flying Fish does not do much that is ordinary so it is no surprise that beer should be out of the ordinary. This is not your usual winter ale, but a Belgian-style strong golden ale that really stands out.

It pours a golden orange with some sediment and a white, fluffy head. The aroma is sweet, spicy and fruity.

The taste is where the winter part of its name kicks in. The fruit notes are easily balanced by the strong malt flavor. While this Belgian strong is extremely full-bodied (7.2% ABV), it is smooth, dry and easy to drink.

This is a delicious change of pace to the standard winter warmers. B+

Vegan Drinks Philly

2009-12-16T09:09:00.001-05:00

For those who are vegetarian or veggie-friendly, AND likes the well-crafted brew, there is a get-together planned for Wednesday December 30 from 7-11pm at the wonderful Earth Bread + Brewery (7136 Germantown Ave, Mt. Airy). This sounds like a nice break from the typical beer-tasting events I normally attend. I am sucker for anyplace promoting good healthy food and great beer.

You can find more details at vegandrinksphilly.blogspot.com.