Philly Beer Week 2012: This will be home base for collecting up the assorted words and pictures, links to them and what not, that I'll be putting out there for you over the coming week and a half. I'll include links that I deem interesting enough to share with you as well.
I'll keep this as the top of the homepage here, so check back often as this will be a "living post".
Buckle up, here we go with Philly Beer Week 2012.
Day-by-Day:
(These daily links will become "live" as I post the material behind them.)
Day 1 (Friday, 6/1) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 2 (Saturday, 6/2) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 3 (Sunday, 6/3) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 4 (Monday, 6/4) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 5 (Tuesday, 6/5) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 6 (Wednesday, 6/6) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 7 (Thursday, 6/7) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 8 (Friday, 6/8) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 9 (Saturday, 6/9) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
Day 10 (Sunday, 6/10) — Link to Preview — Link to Wrap-Up — Link to Pictures
--> Link to master calendar list of events at Philly Beer Week's website.
--> Link to past coverage of Philly Beer Week at The Brew Lounge.
Assorted links to PBW '12 in the news:
~ Philadelphia Weekly's coverage, to me, of PBW gets better each year. Here's one link to give you a clue.
~ Philly.com triple-teams the beer coverage between Joe Sixpack (natch), Craig Laban, and Michael Klein. Here's a take on PBW '12 provided by Klein.
~ Some words from Peter Van Allen at Philadelphia Business Journal and a small slideshow from the With Love Beer Garden media preview party at Four Seasons Hotel.
Other local writers/bloggers covering PBW '12:
~ Suzy Woods, the Beer Lass, the Allagash ambassador, the plate-is-always-full (and so is the glass!) shares some of her plans for a very busy Philly Beer Week
~ Joe Sixpack with a bunch of great recommendations (5/31)
~ Jack Curtin shares some fun video that pulls back the curtain (like how I did that?) on the Great Lew versus Jack showdown.
~ I'm sure that no one will ever forget the PLCB/BLCE debacle. Lew Bryson uses the Resurrection Ale at Resurrection Ale House event to remind us of those dark days.
~ Carolyn Smagalski provides the background behind Philly Beer Geek 2011 champion, Natalie DeChico (Weyerbacher regional rep), and her Basil IPA designed and brewed with Manayunk Brewing Company.
~ The Town Dish has branched out in to various communities over the past few years. They've begun their coverage of PBW this year thus far with: Downingtown Dish; Chestnut Hill Dish; West Chester Dish. They'd also partnered with Southwest Airlines and Philly Beer Week on a cool little contest with a big payoff.
~ Ryan Hudak, at In Search of Beer, is reminding me that I'm not the only that attempts to exhaustively cover Philly Beer Week. He's got a slew of great recommendations for experiencing PBW '12 (and organized quite nicely) and I'm assuming we'll see lots of highlights in the post mortems. If I don't run in to him too often, you can probably bet that he and I will cover at least half of PBW '12 :)
~ This should be a handy link from Collin Flatt at Eater.com and everything he writes about PBW '12.
~ And a similar handy link for Grub Street Philadelphia and their content that they post over the next couple of weeks.
~ Uwishunu does a nice job of covering the city and region from the Tourism Bureau's perspective. Here's a bit of a preview from them as well as a link to all related content, where they also point out Valanni hosting a Philly Gay Beer Week?!
~ Arthur Etchells, the Foobooz crew, and I love numbers. So it's no wonder I love what he did with Philly Beer Week By The Numbers. There's a catchall link here too to keep track of everything Foobooz puts out there during PBW '12.
~ Being a former tap list junkie (remember those days?), I also love what Jared and Kristy Littman are doing over at Philly Tap Finder to help out the geeks in need of their daily, and up-to-date, fix.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Sunday, June 03, 2012
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 5 Preview
At least a day prior to each day of Philly Beer Week 2012, I'll be posting up a small look into what to expect both in terms of the day's calendar of events as well as key/significant/interesting events as well as where you might likely spot me during the day and/or night.
Here's a look into the fifth day, June 5.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ De Struise at The Farmers' Cabinet. That should be enough to begin the frothing.
~ No Repeat Beer Week is an annual reminder why Memphis Taproom is on every PBW beer geek's schedule for at least one stop during the 10 days.
For the hungry
~ Tacos and Stillwater beer specials at Jose Pistola's. Year-round, they've got some of the city's best tacos. Add the Stillwater beers in to the mix and you've got the recipe of a winning event.
~ I honestly haven't given Ladder 15 much thought over the last couple of years since they opened. An Exit Series beer dinner with Flying Fish could change things.
~ I mention below how Sam Adams brewer, Bob Cannon, will be at City Tap House for lunch. He'll really get his grub on later at night with a beer dinner at Bridget Foy's that looks well worth the $55 price of admission.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Burlesque. Cabaret. Prism. Interstate Draft House. Sounds wild to me.
~ Resurrection Ale House is hosting an event that, let me see if I've got this straight, includes Dogfish Head beer, Trivial Pursuit board games, wigs, vinyl records. And a guy named Sam Calagione.
~ Then, instead of wigs, City Tap House has a bald event going on the same day. Oy, more lunacy for sure. That's after hosting the hirstute Bob Cannon from Sam Adams for lunch.
Possibly under the radar
~ While I could list this event at Molly Malloy's under the food section, I'm wondering if it's not more of an under-the-radar at this point? It's "After Dark" at the Reading Terminal Market, which is pretty cool. Cooler still is that it's Victory, it's Tröegs, it's food, it's Phillies ticket raffles.
~ Eddie Stoudt will be at Brauhaus Schmitz and that just seems entirely appropriate.
~ There is a bunch of sour beers showing up at Eulogy on this particular night. I'm not sure that I've heard anyone really take notice. If you like 'em tart and funky, then you'll want to take notice.
~ Bridgid's is an important, and aesthetically-pleasing, bar in Philadelphia's recent history (i.e. last 20 years) and Narragansett, from Rhode Island, makes some real decent beer. Two great reasons to stop by.
~ Again, another event at one of the country's best train station bars, Bridgewater's Pub. This time, it's an event to help us get to know new local brewers better, Free Will Brewing Company.
Learn something
~ Kennett Restaurant has an event for you that will cover both food and education. You'll learn, you'll eat, you'll drink. Sounds like you'll have a good time as well.
~ A session beer forum. As much as I'd like to squeeze this one (partially to observe whether civility ensues, or not!), it's probably not in the cards for me. But, seriously, the tasting session and the informed and passionate opinions from the panel should be well worth your visit.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ The first stop after hopping off the train should probably be a very dangerous stop. After last year's amazing success with finger sandwiches and punk rock, Home Brew Chef Sean Paxton is again teaming up with Sam Calagione and Dogfish Head at Nodding Head. This time it's a happy hour and once again, it's a can't (or, do not) miss.
~ Too bad I won't be taking any time off from work this year for PBW, because as you can see from above, there are some fine daytime events to check out. Nonetheless, I'll soldier on and continue my day 5 with the dunk tank action at London Grill. A fundraiser and a fun-raiser all in one.
~ Since I'll be just around the corner, Bishop's Collar for an Allagash night with Suzy Woods sounds perfect.
~ If it turns out to be a late night, which is always possible, doing a second Allagash event might be in the cards. This one with the boss-man, Rob Tod, at Barcade for some beer, fun, and games.
~ If I don't close the night with Barcade, then I could see it being on the way home instead in Wayne at Teresa's Next Door where Dr. Joel from New Holland Brewing Company makes his triumphant return to Philly Beer Week after moving to Michigan earlier this year. Charcuterie, cheese, and sour beers will make me feel like I'm back in Belgium all over again. City-folk, you'll want to schelp it to the 'burbs for this one.
Hang in there beer peoples; you've made it halfway through Philly Beer Week, there's no letting up now.
Here's a look into the fifth day, June 5.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ De Struise at The Farmers' Cabinet. That should be enough to begin the frothing.
~ No Repeat Beer Week is an annual reminder why Memphis Taproom is on every PBW beer geek's schedule for at least one stop during the 10 days.
For the hungry
~ Tacos and Stillwater beer specials at Jose Pistola's. Year-round, they've got some of the city's best tacos. Add the Stillwater beers in to the mix and you've got the recipe of a winning event.
~ I honestly haven't given Ladder 15 much thought over the last couple of years since they opened. An Exit Series beer dinner with Flying Fish could change things.
~ I mention below how Sam Adams brewer, Bob Cannon, will be at City Tap House for lunch. He'll really get his grub on later at night with a beer dinner at Bridget Foy's that looks well worth the $55 price of admission.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Burlesque. Cabaret. Prism. Interstate Draft House. Sounds wild to me.
~ Resurrection Ale House is hosting an event that, let me see if I've got this straight, includes Dogfish Head beer, Trivial Pursuit board games, wigs, vinyl records. And a guy named Sam Calagione.
~ Then, instead of wigs, City Tap House has a bald event going on the same day. Oy, more lunacy for sure. That's after hosting the hirstute Bob Cannon from Sam Adams for lunch.
Possibly under the radar
~ While I could list this event at Molly Malloy's under the food section, I'm wondering if it's not more of an under-the-radar at this point? It's "After Dark" at the Reading Terminal Market, which is pretty cool. Cooler still is that it's Victory, it's Tröegs, it's food, it's Phillies ticket raffles.
~ Eddie Stoudt will be at Brauhaus Schmitz and that just seems entirely appropriate.
~ There is a bunch of sour beers showing up at Eulogy on this particular night. I'm not sure that I've heard anyone really take notice. If you like 'em tart and funky, then you'll want to take notice.
~ Bridgid's is an important, and aesthetically-pleasing, bar in Philadelphia's recent history (i.e. last 20 years) and Narragansett, from Rhode Island, makes some real decent beer. Two great reasons to stop by.
~ Again, another event at one of the country's best train station bars, Bridgewater's Pub. This time, it's an event to help us get to know new local brewers better, Free Will Brewing Company.
Learn something
~ Kennett Restaurant has an event for you that will cover both food and education. You'll learn, you'll eat, you'll drink. Sounds like you'll have a good time as well.
~ A session beer forum. As much as I'd like to squeeze this one (partially to observe whether civility ensues, or not!), it's probably not in the cards for me. But, seriously, the tasting session and the informed and passionate opinions from the panel should be well worth your visit.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ The first stop after hopping off the train should probably be a very dangerous stop. After last year's amazing success with finger sandwiches and punk rock, Home Brew Chef Sean Paxton is again teaming up with Sam Calagione and Dogfish Head at Nodding Head. This time it's a happy hour and once again, it's a can't (or, do not) miss.
~ Too bad I won't be taking any time off from work this year for PBW, because as you can see from above, there are some fine daytime events to check out. Nonetheless, I'll soldier on and continue my day 5 with the dunk tank action at London Grill. A fundraiser and a fun-raiser all in one.
~ Since I'll be just around the corner, Bishop's Collar for an Allagash night with Suzy Woods sounds perfect.
~ If it turns out to be a late night, which is always possible, doing a second Allagash event might be in the cards. This one with the boss-man, Rob Tod, at Barcade for some beer, fun, and games.
~ If I don't close the night with Barcade, then I could see it being on the way home instead in Wayne at Teresa's Next Door where Dr. Joel from New Holland Brewing Company makes his triumphant return to Philly Beer Week after moving to Michigan earlier this year. Charcuterie, cheese, and sour beers will make me feel like I'm back in Belgium all over again. City-folk, you'll want to schelp it to the 'burbs for this one.
Hang in there beer peoples; you've made it halfway through Philly Beer Week, there's no letting up now.
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 2 Wrap-Up
The beauty of doing a Philly Beer Week wrap-up is that there's almost no way in which I, or anyone else, can be wrong in my assessment. After all, with an average of 80 or so "events" a day (and let's be honest, after five years, there are still quite a few questionable "events" on the calendar, but let's move along), no one will or can see it all to render an opinion on how the whole of the day went down.
So, instead, here is my account of the second day, June 2, of Philly Beer Week 2012 based upon my whereabouts. To the extent that I have credible second- or third-hand accounts of the day, I'll be including them in each day's wrap-up as well.
First, a link here to my pictures from day 2 of Philly Beer Week 2012.
Then, for some notes, in no particular order of importance.
~ For only hitting up four events beginning at 9 a.m., Saturday turned out to be a much more exhausting day than might have been expected. But, it was also one of the most beautiful days in the history of Philly Beer Weeks as well. Today, June 3, promises no different.
~ My first piece of advice for PBW revelers and the overwhelming task that is the daily planning of what to attend: Don't over think it. I've been fond of telling anyone who asks how I do it the same thing: Make a list of 5-10 events that look interesting to you, but only insist upon knowing what the first event of the day is that you will do before going to bed the night before. Because, as is typical, at the first event you choose, you're bound to run in to someone with a suggestion, a reminder about a different event that all of a sudden you're off in pursuit of. So setting a strict agenda will almost always set you up for disappointment. Be flexible!
~ So with that plan, I knew that I was hitting up the iconic Reading Terminal Market the refreshingly new Molly Malloy's in the back of the market. They've got a lot planned for PBW '12 and this breakfast with the Evil Genius guys was one of them. We got there early and maybe a quarter of the breakfasts were accompanied by beers, a ratio that I'd expect to only grow as the morning went along. It was also my first time meeting Trevor and Mark from the brewery -- only previously by emails -- and they quickly proved that they're the kind of guys you'll want to have a beer with during PBW and beyond. And, while the beer selection is good at Molly Molloy's, certainly do not overlook the food. The burrito and skillet breakfast specials were just the tasty base I needed to get the day started on the right foot.
~ Then it was up to Johnny Brenda's for a quick glass of cask-conditioned beer (my choice: the Citra Pale Ale from Free Will -- remember a worthy goal for PBW is to find new beers, new local breweries, and new bars) during the Firkin Riot! event. I left before the British Invasion hit the DJ's turntables, but from following tweets and whatnot, I gather that this event turned into quite the happening as the day went along.
~ I then took a siesta to return home for dog duty, grass cutting, writing/picture uploading, and other household chores before returning back to the city for round 2.
~ My trip through 30th Street Station allowed me to catch up on a Bridgewater's "event" (though, to be fair, I'm not entirely sure how much of an event it was, as opposed to putting a new-ish beer on tap) that I missed on Friday due to tight schedules. Staropramen Czech Lager was on tap and a well-made Lager from the Czech Republic could be a home run or.....Well, perhaps it was fortunate that I kicked this keg and got the last ounce of two since it was a bit too malty sweet tasting for my liking. Still, the keg was gone in less than 24 hours, so the beer must've at least garnered enough attention to get through it so quickly.
~ Back to my first point about the weather. Upon my second trip into the City, I decided to eat in to some of the beer event/drinking time by walking from 30th Street Station to Varga. Many of you will appreciate the distance. Some may not. Basically, by descending the steps to the banks of the Schuylkill River, walking along it for several blocks, then making the walk over to Spruce Street, and along Spruce to Varga (passing venerable beer spots like Monk's, Good Dog, Jose Pistola's, and Tria along the way -- could even throw a Fox & Hound in there if you wish, I suppose, since it is along Spruce Street and makes an attempt at serving the good stuff), I created an almost 2-mile walk that showcased the best of Philadelphia's attractive offerings: brownstone residentials; parks (people parks, dog parks, basketball/tennis, etc.); history; sweeping/stunning views; retail; landmarks; and on and on.
~ That leads me to a piece of advice that I've been passing along and tweet-ed out yesterday -- apologies to those many of you that don't give a rat's patooty about Twitter (or even Facebook, for that matter); it's game that many of us play if even we don't give the same rat's tush about it either -- in an effort to offset the caloric intake of many of these events (beer, food, stationary position, etc.), make a point to walk between as many destinations as possible. Sure, you may lose a few minutes here or there, but you'll be burning off some of those unnecessary calories plus you'll be giving yourself the benefit of seeing the City from a whole different perspective.
~ My walk gets me eventually to Varga Bar, where one of the very few recognizable faces (perhaps because he looms head and shoulders above most in the crowd) is the ever-busy (and award-winning) Casey Hughes from across the river at Flying Fish. Here I managed to allow my "schedule" to be thrown out the window as Varga's serious tap list and canned beer offerings paired with the block-weather-perfect weather made it a no-brainer to hang out here for a few hours. Until the Brothers Mashington showed up, that is.
~ My last stop for the second day in a row was a Sly Fox event, this one at Bar on Sansom Street, where sales guys Patrick Mullin and Corey Reid were hosting Team Peggy (the goat) and Simon too from their annual Goat Race and Bock Festival. Peggy Maibock (2012's winning maibock) was on tap for the people and straw and feed were available for the goats, turning Sansom Street into an unlikely farm setting. Quite the curiosity draw for passers-by for sure.
~ And, that's about where the exhaustion factor kicked in. Up at 5:30 a.m. Two train trips into the city and a bunch of healthy walking about was enough to turn me in early -- but not before, of course, dinner and a beer from my hometown local, TJ's, who can call any day of the year a beer event at their top notch suburban pub.
So, instead, here is my account of the second day, June 2, of Philly Beer Week 2012 based upon my whereabouts. To the extent that I have credible second- or third-hand accounts of the day, I'll be including them in each day's wrap-up as well.
First, a link here to my pictures from day 2 of Philly Beer Week 2012.
Then, for some notes, in no particular order of importance.
~ For only hitting up four events beginning at 9 a.m., Saturday turned out to be a much more exhausting day than might have been expected. But, it was also one of the most beautiful days in the history of Philly Beer Weeks as well. Today, June 3, promises no different.
~ My first piece of advice for PBW revelers and the overwhelming task that is the daily planning of what to attend: Don't over think it. I've been fond of telling anyone who asks how I do it the same thing: Make a list of 5-10 events that look interesting to you, but only insist upon knowing what the first event of the day is that you will do before going to bed the night before. Because, as is typical, at the first event you choose, you're bound to run in to someone with a suggestion, a reminder about a different event that all of a sudden you're off in pursuit of. So setting a strict agenda will almost always set you up for disappointment. Be flexible!
~ So with that plan, I knew that I was hitting up the iconic Reading Terminal Market the refreshingly new Molly Malloy's in the back of the market. They've got a lot planned for PBW '12 and this breakfast with the Evil Genius guys was one of them. We got there early and maybe a quarter of the breakfasts were accompanied by beers, a ratio that I'd expect to only grow as the morning went along. It was also my first time meeting Trevor and Mark from the brewery -- only previously by emails -- and they quickly proved that they're the kind of guys you'll want to have a beer with during PBW and beyond. And, while the beer selection is good at Molly Molloy's, certainly do not overlook the food. The burrito and skillet breakfast specials were just the tasty base I needed to get the day started on the right foot.
~ Then it was up to Johnny Brenda's for a quick glass of cask-conditioned beer (my choice: the Citra Pale Ale from Free Will -- remember a worthy goal for PBW is to find new beers, new local breweries, and new bars) during the Firkin Riot! event. I left before the British Invasion hit the DJ's turntables, but from following tweets and whatnot, I gather that this event turned into quite the happening as the day went along.
~ I then took a siesta to return home for dog duty, grass cutting, writing/picture uploading, and other household chores before returning back to the city for round 2.
~ My trip through 30th Street Station allowed me to catch up on a Bridgewater's "event" (though, to be fair, I'm not entirely sure how much of an event it was, as opposed to putting a new-ish beer on tap) that I missed on Friday due to tight schedules. Staropramen Czech Lager was on tap and a well-made Lager from the Czech Republic could be a home run or.....Well, perhaps it was fortunate that I kicked this keg and got the last ounce of two since it was a bit too malty sweet tasting for my liking. Still, the keg was gone in less than 24 hours, so the beer must've at least garnered enough attention to get through it so quickly.
~ Back to my first point about the weather. Upon my second trip into the City, I decided to eat in to some of the beer event/drinking time by walking from 30th Street Station to Varga. Many of you will appreciate the distance. Some may not. Basically, by descending the steps to the banks of the Schuylkill River, walking along it for several blocks, then making the walk over to Spruce Street, and along Spruce to Varga (passing venerable beer spots like Monk's, Good Dog, Jose Pistola's, and Tria along the way -- could even throw a Fox & Hound in there if you wish, I suppose, since it is along Spruce Street and makes an attempt at serving the good stuff), I created an almost 2-mile walk that showcased the best of Philadelphia's attractive offerings: brownstone residentials; parks (people parks, dog parks, basketball/tennis, etc.); history; sweeping/stunning views; retail; landmarks; and on and on.
~ That leads me to a piece of advice that I've been passing along and tweet-ed out yesterday -- apologies to those many of you that don't give a rat's patooty about Twitter (or even Facebook, for that matter); it's game that many of us play if even we don't give the same rat's tush about it either -- in an effort to offset the caloric intake of many of these events (beer, food, stationary position, etc.), make a point to walk between as many destinations as possible. Sure, you may lose a few minutes here or there, but you'll be burning off some of those unnecessary calories plus you'll be giving yourself the benefit of seeing the City from a whole different perspective.
~ My walk gets me eventually to Varga Bar, where one of the very few recognizable faces (perhaps because he looms head and shoulders above most in the crowd) is the ever-busy (and award-winning) Casey Hughes from across the river at Flying Fish. Here I managed to allow my "schedule" to be thrown out the window as Varga's serious tap list and canned beer offerings paired with the block-weather-perfect weather made it a no-brainer to hang out here for a few hours. Until the Brothers Mashington showed up, that is.
~ My last stop for the second day in a row was a Sly Fox event, this one at Bar on Sansom Street, where sales guys Patrick Mullin and Corey Reid were hosting Team Peggy (the goat) and Simon too from their annual Goat Race and Bock Festival. Peggy Maibock (2012's winning maibock) was on tap for the people and straw and feed were available for the goats, turning Sansom Street into an unlikely farm setting. Quite the curiosity draw for passers-by for sure.
~ And, that's about where the exhaustion factor kicked in. Up at 5:30 a.m. Two train trips into the city and a bunch of healthy walking about was enough to turn me in early -- but not before, of course, dinner and a beer from my hometown local, TJ's, who can call any day of the year a beer event at their top notch suburban pub.
Saturday, June 02, 2012
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 4 Preview
At least a day prior to each day of Philly Beer Week 2012, I'll be posting up a small look into what to expect both in terms of the day's calendar of events as well as key/significant/interesting events as well as where you might likely spot me during the day and/or night.
Here's a look into the fourth day, June 4.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ Dock Street's big bottles are immensely popular. They're having a release sale beginning at 3 p.m. and I wouldn't expect stock that includes Flemish Red, Super Saison, and Abbey Dubbel to last long.
~ The opposite of session beer night happens at Prohibition Taproom — unless you describe your session as 10%+ beers over two hours or less ;-)
~ Farmers' Cabinet is doing something called "Rare, Obscure, and Legendary beers" which pretty much fits their m.o. You probably don't have to guess very hard how geeky this night will be.
For the hungry
~ Khyber Pass Pub has one of the best pub/bar menus around and on this day they're hosting Uinta for lunch which should prove to be just the lunch that you'll be looking for.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ I don't know how wild and wacky it will get, but when the ladies Woods (Allagash) and Maguire (Ommegang/Duvel) get together for a joint event at Good Dog Bar, there's bound to be plenty of fun...and beer.
~ "Drunken tales of yore" at the Perch Pub with Yards Brewing Company? With audience participation? Oh, yeah, this one could get wacky.
~ Late Night with Joe Gunn at Jose Pistola's defines this category.
Possibly under the radar
~ I'm not sure what to make of the Bella Vista horseshoe tournament. On one hand, "the city's best distributor" (Philly Beer Scene 2012) describes it as being "chill" and "low key". So it could be a pretty quiet, under-the-radar type of event. On the other hand, it is Bella Vista after all, plus they promise to have some beer geek-y brewers from around the country playing in the tournament, giving the hardcore beer geek an easy chance to rub elbows and bend the ear of their favorite brewers.
~ Could an event that features Red Poppy, Schaerbeekse, Saison Darkly, and 15th Anniversary be considered under-the-radar? It's at SPTR's bottleshop Brew just down the street.
~ Italian beers have a somewhat-well-earned rep for being expensive. That may be true and while I don't know how they'll be priced at Alla Spina, this may be one of the larger gatherings of tasty Italian beers in the city to give you the opportunity to try.
Learn something
~ Have already plugged Khyber Pass Pub here, but what the heck, they fall into the "learning" category here as well when the Round Guys Brew Crew come to share their knowledge of sour beers as well as share some of their actual product and other commercial breweries too.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ I don't see The Brew Lounge filling up too much on Monday events. The ones that look most interesting that could fit my timeline are Bear Republic at Kite & Key, 50/50 at Hawthornes, and Goose Island at City Tap House.
And, with that, the hardest day of PBW '12 will be in the books. If you're not taking time off from work (speaking for myself as well), you'll need a gameplan, stamina, and wise choices to get you through 'til the next weekend. Philly Beer Week, It's On!
Here's a look into the fourth day, June 4.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ Dock Street's big bottles are immensely popular. They're having a release sale beginning at 3 p.m. and I wouldn't expect stock that includes Flemish Red, Super Saison, and Abbey Dubbel to last long.
~ The opposite of session beer night happens at Prohibition Taproom — unless you describe your session as 10%+ beers over two hours or less ;-)
~ Farmers' Cabinet is doing something called "Rare, Obscure, and Legendary beers" which pretty much fits their m.o. You probably don't have to guess very hard how geeky this night will be.
For the hungry
~ Khyber Pass Pub has one of the best pub/bar menus around and on this day they're hosting Uinta for lunch which should prove to be just the lunch that you'll be looking for.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ I don't know how wild and wacky it will get, but when the ladies Woods (Allagash) and Maguire (Ommegang/Duvel) get together for a joint event at Good Dog Bar, there's bound to be plenty of fun...and beer.
~ "Drunken tales of yore" at the Perch Pub with Yards Brewing Company? With audience participation? Oh, yeah, this one could get wacky.
~ Late Night with Joe Gunn at Jose Pistola's defines this category.
Possibly under the radar
~ I'm not sure what to make of the Bella Vista horseshoe tournament. On one hand, "the city's best distributor" (Philly Beer Scene 2012) describes it as being "chill" and "low key". So it could be a pretty quiet, under-the-radar type of event. On the other hand, it is Bella Vista after all, plus they promise to have some beer geek-y brewers from around the country playing in the tournament, giving the hardcore beer geek an easy chance to rub elbows and bend the ear of their favorite brewers.
~ Could an event that features Red Poppy, Schaerbeekse, Saison Darkly, and 15th Anniversary be considered under-the-radar? It's at SPTR's bottleshop Brew just down the street.
~ Italian beers have a somewhat-well-earned rep for being expensive. That may be true and while I don't know how they'll be priced at Alla Spina, this may be one of the larger gatherings of tasty Italian beers in the city to give you the opportunity to try.
Learn something
~ Have already plugged Khyber Pass Pub here, but what the heck, they fall into the "learning" category here as well when the Round Guys Brew Crew come to share their knowledge of sour beers as well as share some of their actual product and other commercial breweries too.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ I don't see The Brew Lounge filling up too much on Monday events. The ones that look most interesting that could fit my timeline are Bear Republic at Kite & Key, 50/50 at Hawthornes, and Goose Island at City Tap House.
And, with that, the hardest day of PBW '12 will be in the books. If you're not taking time off from work (speaking for myself as well), you'll need a gameplan, stamina, and wise choices to get you through 'til the next weekend. Philly Beer Week, It's On!
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 1 Wrap-Up
The beauty of doing a Philly Beer Week wrap-up is that there's almost no way in which I, or anyone else, can be wrong in my assessment. After all, with an average of 80 or so "events" a day (and let's be honest, after five years, there are still quite a few questionable "events" on the calendar, but let's move along), no one will or can see it all to render an opinion on how the whole of the day went down.
So, instead, here is my account of the first day, June 1, of Philly Beer Week 2012 based upon my whereabouts and meanderings. To the extent that I have credible second- or third-hand accounts of the day, I'll be including them in each day's wrap-up as well.
First, a link here to my pictures from day 1 of Philly Beer Week 2012.
And, then, some notes in no particular order other than perhaps chronologically.
~ Coming from the western suburbs, Amtrak is always my first option for getting into the city. For many reasons I've stated before, it's an all-around more pleasant, and faster, experience. If SEPTA got involved again with the special, discounted passes like they did a couple of years ago, that may change my mind on some days, but on this Day 1, it was Amtrak to the Broad Street subway.
~ Getting off at Ellsworth/Federal and then walking 4 blocks east to 18th Street, I find myself at the new American Sardine (sister establishment to South Philadelphia Tap Room) in the Point Breeze neighborhood where Scott Schroeder is serving up platefuls of wonderful cheese, including the incomparable Humboldt Fog.
~ Megan Maguire from Ommegang/Duvel USA is doing her energetic thing with a half dozen or so Ommegang beers including Witte, Hennepin, Gnomegang, Art of Darkness, Seduction. What a great way to start the evening.
~ For as "interesting" of a neighborhood as ASB is in, the ambiance is relaxing, the service attentive, and the food and beer varied enough to please many. I'll return for sure. (Plus, for sports fans heading to the south Philly complex, this is a pretty easy stop off the subway line on your way to/from games.)
~ Clouds are rolling in and winds are whipping up, so I make for a block north and seven east to Devil's Den, where the joint is packed with people searching out some new, rare, and otherwise interesting brews on the always-solid beer list at Devil's Den.
~ While I made new friends at ABS, at Devil's Den is where I began to run into numerous friends, both old and new. Case in point, Rich, a friend from college days was there with other beer-loving friends. And, Jordan Fetfatzes from Bella Vista was working as this was actually a "Bella Vista Bash" event. Many great beers. The Funky Buddha brewery (from Boca Raton, of all places!) is new in town and taking it by storm judging by how quickly the very tasty Cranberry Berliner Weisse kicked. Bella Vista Beverage is getting Funky Buddha around town quite a bit during PBW, so be sure to track them down.
~ At this point, the tarp was being taken off the field at the Phillies game, I was between beers, and frankly too hot to stay inside at Devil's Den. So I wandered off to check out Ms. Maguire once again, this time at P.O.P.E (Pub on Passyunk East) to see what this "world's smallest toast" with La Chouffe was all about.
~ Another hot and steamy and crowded place, so I stayed for one La Chouffe. Chatted with Megan a bit more. Got to know Ben Brown from Anchor Brewing (mid-Atlantic rep). And noted why there's little doubt that P.O.P.E. is certainly a top 10, if not a top 5 pub experience in Philadelphia. Period.
~ Made my way north and before catching a cab made an impulse pit stop for my first Pat's Steaks in over five years. Hasn't changed. And, I for one, am perfectly fine with that.
~ Cab deposits me at Fergie's where I had time for a half set from the John Train Band that was rocking out the beats to the beers of Sly Fox. Corey Reid was holding down the fort until Patrick Mullin, and perhaps others, from Sly Fox were due to show up.
~ With a very early morning Saturday looming, the prudent thing was to catch the 10:59 p.m. train westward. But that last Saison Vos hit the perfect spot.
~ What did I learn from my 2012 approach to PBW? That even while the main event, Opening Tap, is taking place with its many hundreds of attendees, there are still many great places to hang out around town with awesome people doing great things with wonderful beers. Isn't that what we say makes the Philly beer scene so great?
So, instead, here is my account of the first day, June 1, of Philly Beer Week 2012 based upon my whereabouts and meanderings. To the extent that I have credible second- or third-hand accounts of the day, I'll be including them in each day's wrap-up as well.
First, a link here to my pictures from day 1 of Philly Beer Week 2012.
And, then, some notes in no particular order other than perhaps chronologically.
~ Coming from the western suburbs, Amtrak is always my first option for getting into the city. For many reasons I've stated before, it's an all-around more pleasant, and faster, experience. If SEPTA got involved again with the special, discounted passes like they did a couple of years ago, that may change my mind on some days, but on this Day 1, it was Amtrak to the Broad Street subway.
~ Getting off at Ellsworth/Federal and then walking 4 blocks east to 18th Street, I find myself at the new American Sardine (sister establishment to South Philadelphia Tap Room) in the Point Breeze neighborhood where Scott Schroeder is serving up platefuls of wonderful cheese, including the incomparable Humboldt Fog.
~ Megan Maguire from Ommegang/Duvel USA is doing her energetic thing with a half dozen or so Ommegang beers including Witte, Hennepin, Gnomegang, Art of Darkness, Seduction. What a great way to start the evening.
~ For as "interesting" of a neighborhood as ASB is in, the ambiance is relaxing, the service attentive, and the food and beer varied enough to please many. I'll return for sure. (Plus, for sports fans heading to the south Philly complex, this is a pretty easy stop off the subway line on your way to/from games.)
~ Clouds are rolling in and winds are whipping up, so I make for a block north and seven east to Devil's Den, where the joint is packed with people searching out some new, rare, and otherwise interesting brews on the always-solid beer list at Devil's Den.
~ While I made new friends at ABS, at Devil's Den is where I began to run into numerous friends, both old and new. Case in point, Rich, a friend from college days was there with other beer-loving friends. And, Jordan Fetfatzes from Bella Vista was working as this was actually a "Bella Vista Bash" event. Many great beers. The Funky Buddha brewery (from Boca Raton, of all places!) is new in town and taking it by storm judging by how quickly the very tasty Cranberry Berliner Weisse kicked. Bella Vista Beverage is getting Funky Buddha around town quite a bit during PBW, so be sure to track them down.
~ At this point, the tarp was being taken off the field at the Phillies game, I was between beers, and frankly too hot to stay inside at Devil's Den. So I wandered off to check out Ms. Maguire once again, this time at P.O.P.E (Pub on Passyunk East) to see what this "world's smallest toast" with La Chouffe was all about.
~ Another hot and steamy and crowded place, so I stayed for one La Chouffe. Chatted with Megan a bit more. Got to know Ben Brown from Anchor Brewing (mid-Atlantic rep). And noted why there's little doubt that P.O.P.E. is certainly a top 10, if not a top 5 pub experience in Philadelphia. Period.
~ Made my way north and before catching a cab made an impulse pit stop for my first Pat's Steaks in over five years. Hasn't changed. And, I for one, am perfectly fine with that.
~ Cab deposits me at Fergie's where I had time for a half set from the John Train Band that was rocking out the beats to the beers of Sly Fox. Corey Reid was holding down the fort until Patrick Mullin, and perhaps others, from Sly Fox were due to show up.
~ With a very early morning Saturday looming, the prudent thing was to catch the 10:59 p.m. train westward. But that last Saison Vos hit the perfect spot.
~ What did I learn from my 2012 approach to PBW? That even while the main event, Opening Tap, is taking place with its many hundreds of attendees, there are still many great places to hang out around town with awesome people doing great things with wonderful beers. Isn't that what we say makes the Philly beer scene so great?
Friday, June 01, 2012
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 3 Preview
At least a day prior to each day of Philly Beer Week 2012, I'll be posting up a small look into what to expect both in terms of the day's calendar of events as well as key/significant/interesting events as well as where you might likely spot me during the day and/or night.
Here's a look into the third day, June 3.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ Where the geeks are today? Well, Capone's near Norristown, for starters, I'm sure. 50/50's Todd Ashman will be there as well as several of his highly sought after beers. If you miss him in the 'burbs, be sure to catch him later in the afternoon at the new Trestle Inn.
~ Bell's 9000 at The Boilermaker (Farmers' Cabinet's latest venture) is sure to draw a crowd as well.
~ I'd be surprised if De Molen, from the Netherlands, doesn't draw a packed house as well at The Belgian Café. It should.
For the hungry
~ Iron Hill is getting together with Good Dog Bar again this year (last year's version was awesome) for a Sunday night dinner.
~ Here comes another recommendation for a.kitchen, just off Rittenhouse Square. This time it's a Sunday brunch with Weyerbacher.
~ I like For Pete's Sake Pub, south of South Street and in the shadows of I-95. They're doing a fine-looking brunch with some interesting beers from Sam Adams that look worth checking out.
~ Speaking of "south of south street", Kennett Restaurant is hosting an Allagash brunch.
~ Score another one for the 'burbs, where The Drafting Room is doing a Russian River brunch.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Varga's After Dark party (with Left Hand Brewing) and P.O.P.E.'s Breaking Bad-themed quizzo with Johnny Goodtimes is about as wacky as I can seem to dig up for this Sunday's to-do list.
Possibly under the radar
~ Session beers. Do you love 'em? Do you think it's a fad? Do you care? Most people are hip to the notion that it takes a high level of talent to make a high-quality, flavorful, low-alcohol beer. Perch Pub is having a Session Beer Tap Takeover and featuring a collaborative beer done with Old Forge Brewing.
~ Talking session beers probably have you thinking about the big guy, Lew Bryson. Well he and fellow writer Jack Curtin went off (individually) to Tröegs in Hershey, Pa. to brew their own Scratch beers. Standard Tap is hosting the "showdown" where the best will be determined.
~ I might not typically recommend Fox & Hound, but with the lineup of cask-conditioned beer that they're advertising, it might be the right day to check it out.
Learn something
~ Learning how to make your own sour beer is on the agenda at Keystone Homebrew in Montgomeryville.
~ A beer chemist is coming to The Grey Lodge. Looks like an event that aspiring brewers should attend without question.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ Starting off on E. Passyunk Ave. seems like as good of a place as any to begin. Lots of local brews, particularly newer ones like Round Guys, Evil Genius, Prism, Brewvolution, etc. will be found amongst the fine bar scene that this side of Broad Street has seen develop over the past several years.
~ Walking north should probably take me to Tapestry, where they'll be serving up 20 or more saisons.
~ And then Woody's. Why not? Not that there's anything wrong with that. Heather and Charlie, from The Institute, have been involved here with the beer program for over a year and, in addition to a "cuban-inspired" brunch, there'll be beers from St. Somewhere, Cigar City, and the new Funky Buddha.
~ Maybe, then, my first visit to The Boilermaker for a bit of Bell's. After that, probably gonna call it a weekend and work on a plan for attacking five weekdays worth of PBW events.
If you survive the weekend, congratulations. You'll need to be even stronger for the next five days of Philly Beer Week!
Here's a look into the third day, June 3.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ Where the geeks are today? Well, Capone's near Norristown, for starters, I'm sure. 50/50's Todd Ashman will be there as well as several of his highly sought after beers. If you miss him in the 'burbs, be sure to catch him later in the afternoon at the new Trestle Inn.
~ Bell's 9000 at The Boilermaker (Farmers' Cabinet's latest venture) is sure to draw a crowd as well.
~ I'd be surprised if De Molen, from the Netherlands, doesn't draw a packed house as well at The Belgian Café. It should.
For the hungry
~ Iron Hill is getting together with Good Dog Bar again this year (last year's version was awesome) for a Sunday night dinner.
~ Here comes another recommendation for a.kitchen, just off Rittenhouse Square. This time it's a Sunday brunch with Weyerbacher.
~ I like For Pete's Sake Pub, south of South Street and in the shadows of I-95. They're doing a fine-looking brunch with some interesting beers from Sam Adams that look worth checking out.
~ Speaking of "south of south street", Kennett Restaurant is hosting an Allagash brunch.
~ Score another one for the 'burbs, where The Drafting Room is doing a Russian River brunch.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Varga's After Dark party (with Left Hand Brewing) and P.O.P.E.'s Breaking Bad-themed quizzo with Johnny Goodtimes is about as wacky as I can seem to dig up for this Sunday's to-do list.
Possibly under the radar
~ Session beers. Do you love 'em? Do you think it's a fad? Do you care? Most people are hip to the notion that it takes a high level of talent to make a high-quality, flavorful, low-alcohol beer. Perch Pub is having a Session Beer Tap Takeover and featuring a collaborative beer done with Old Forge Brewing.
~ Talking session beers probably have you thinking about the big guy, Lew Bryson. Well he and fellow writer Jack Curtin went off (individually) to Tröegs in Hershey, Pa. to brew their own Scratch beers. Standard Tap is hosting the "showdown" where the best will be determined.
~ I might not typically recommend Fox & Hound, but with the lineup of cask-conditioned beer that they're advertising, it might be the right day to check it out.
Learn something
~ Learning how to make your own sour beer is on the agenda at Keystone Homebrew in Montgomeryville.
~ A beer chemist is coming to The Grey Lodge. Looks like an event that aspiring brewers should attend without question.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ Starting off on E. Passyunk Ave. seems like as good of a place as any to begin. Lots of local brews, particularly newer ones like Round Guys, Evil Genius, Prism, Brewvolution, etc. will be found amongst the fine bar scene that this side of Broad Street has seen develop over the past several years.
~ Walking north should probably take me to Tapestry, where they'll be serving up 20 or more saisons.
~ And then Woody's. Why not? Not that there's anything wrong with that. Heather and Charlie, from The Institute, have been involved here with the beer program for over a year and, in addition to a "cuban-inspired" brunch, there'll be beers from St. Somewhere, Cigar City, and the new Funky Buddha.
~ Maybe, then, my first visit to The Boilermaker for a bit of Bell's. After that, probably gonna call it a weekend and work on a plan for attacking five weekdays worth of PBW events.
If you survive the weekend, congratulations. You'll need to be even stronger for the next five days of Philly Beer Week!
2 writers, 1 brewhouse, 2 taps at Standard Tap
Hey, not my words. That's how Tröegs describes it on their webpage.
Proving once again that the Philly beer landscape is rich enough to include writers amongst the brewers, importers, and pubs, distinguished beer writers Lew Bryson and Jack Curtin each brewed a beer at Tröegs under the long-running Scratch Series umbrella.
Their beers, along with a bevy of other beers from Tröegs will be on tap this Sunday, June 3 at Standard Tap for your decision of whose Scratch beer is better: Lew's Zwickel Licker or Jack's Biere de Grouch. Both are clever names, and based on branding alone, I'd probably give a point to Curtin's.
But, we should taste them on Sunday for the ultimate decision.
Head on over to Curtin's site to check out the fun videos that were made.
~ Link to Part 1
~ Link to Part 2
Proving once again that the Philly beer landscape is rich enough to include writers amongst the brewers, importers, and pubs, distinguished beer writers Lew Bryson and Jack Curtin each brewed a beer at Tröegs under the long-running Scratch Series umbrella.
Their beers, along with a bevy of other beers from Tröegs will be on tap this Sunday, June 3 at Standard Tap for your decision of whose Scratch beer is better: Lew's Zwickel Licker or Jack's Biere de Grouch. Both are clever names, and based on branding alone, I'd probably give a point to Curtin's.
But, we should taste them on Sunday for the ultimate decision.
Head on over to Curtin's site to check out the fun videos that were made.
~ Link to Part 1
~ Link to Part 2
Categories:
Jack Curtin,
Lew Bryson,
PBW,
Philly Beer Week 2012,
Standard Tap,
Tröegs
Links to this post
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 2 Preview
At least a day prior to each day of Philly Beer Week 2012, I'll be posting up a small look into what to expect both in terms of the day's calendar of events as well as key/significant/interesting events as well as where you might likely spot me during the day and/or night.
Here's a look into the second day, June 2.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ The daylight hours of Saturday have so much going on to pull out the hardcore beer geeks, that you'll be challenged to make it late into the evening. You can choose from Varga's Block Party, the Firkin Riot at Johnny Brenda's, more Mikkeller at Farmers' Cabinet, saisons at Tapestry, togas and lunacy at Kite & Key, and Kingpin at Standard Tap.
~ If you get past the afternoon's debachery, plenty more awaits at night like David Walker and his Firestone Walker beers at American Sardine, Vanberg & Dewulf at Tria Fermentation School, and west coast beers at Hulmeville Inn.
For the hungry
~ Prism makes some beers that call out for attention. Brunch may be the perfect venue for some of them, like the Chocolate Bacon Stout and Blood Orange Blond. Continental is hosting Prism for Saturday morning brunch. There are several other brunches, like a North Coast-themed one at Capone's, also taking place on this first Saturday of PBW '12.
~ a.kitchen has hosted a few beer events/dinners in the past. They're typically a la carte with suggested pairings, which works quite nicely. Here they're getting together with Brian Strumke and his Stillwater beers which should make for a fine dinner.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Each year, Kite and Key files its share of wacky events on the calendar. This year is no different. Check out the Gladiator events beginning at 2 p.m.
~ A goat. Yup. A goat will be the center of attention at Bar. It's Peggy, the winner of this year's Sly Fox Goat Races. How much more wacky does it get than that?
Possibly under the radar
~ Just because the event is listed as a Main Line Jazz Fest, don't be fooled. The portion of the closed-street event that Teresa's Next Door is responsible for has traditionally been an over-the-top solid event put on in conjunction with Tröegs. Both Lew's Scratch and Jack's Scratch will be there. As will a firkin of Perpetual IPA. Oh yeah.
~ You've likely heard of Boxcar Brewing Company out of West Chester, Pa. They make a fair amount of beer, though I don't see it around the city or 'burbs as much as I'd expect. Here's a good chance to drink of their beer while riding the rails.
Learn something
~ Early in the day, local beer historian Rich Wagner will be talking about the old days of brewing in Philadelphia at Philadelphia Brewing Company.
~ Don Feinberg and Wendy Littlefield, owners of Vanberg & Dewulf, are teaching at Tria's Fermentation School. You'll like the subject matter.
~ And, Thomas Schon from Mikkeller is "teaching" his own class earlier in the day at Farmers' Cabinet.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ I believe that I'll follow last year's equation and hit up the city first and finish up in the 'burbs. Therefore, I'll begin with a bite to eat (they're advertising fish & chips and meat pies) and a few glasses of cask-conditioned beer at Johnny Brenda's.
~ Stopping by Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant for a couple of "locals" and some fun 'n' games sounds like, well, fun. Before heading off to....
~ Big time fun 'n' games at Kite & Key. You've heard the history and the reputation of this event, I trust. If not, just show up. Trust me. You won't regret it. If not for the craziness, then for the always-solid lineup of beers.
~ Then, I finish up at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, for reasons stated above.
That takes care of day number two. Philly Beer Week & it's on!
Here's a look into the second day, June 2.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ The daylight hours of Saturday have so much going on to pull out the hardcore beer geeks, that you'll be challenged to make it late into the evening. You can choose from Varga's Block Party, the Firkin Riot at Johnny Brenda's, more Mikkeller at Farmers' Cabinet, saisons at Tapestry, togas and lunacy at Kite & Key, and Kingpin at Standard Tap.
~ If you get past the afternoon's debachery, plenty more awaits at night like David Walker and his Firestone Walker beers at American Sardine, Vanberg & Dewulf at Tria Fermentation School, and west coast beers at Hulmeville Inn.
For the hungry
~ Prism makes some beers that call out for attention. Brunch may be the perfect venue for some of them, like the Chocolate Bacon Stout and Blood Orange Blond. Continental is hosting Prism for Saturday morning brunch. There are several other brunches, like a North Coast-themed one at Capone's, also taking place on this first Saturday of PBW '12.
~ a.kitchen has hosted a few beer events/dinners in the past. They're typically a la carte with suggested pairings, which works quite nicely. Here they're getting together with Brian Strumke and his Stillwater beers which should make for a fine dinner.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ Each year, Kite and Key files its share of wacky events on the calendar. This year is no different. Check out the Gladiator events beginning at 2 p.m.
~ A goat. Yup. A goat will be the center of attention at Bar. It's Peggy, the winner of this year's Sly Fox Goat Races. How much more wacky does it get than that?
Possibly under the radar
~ Just because the event is listed as a Main Line Jazz Fest, don't be fooled. The portion of the closed-street event that Teresa's Next Door is responsible for has traditionally been an over-the-top solid event put on in conjunction with Tröegs. Both Lew's Scratch and Jack's Scratch will be there. As will a firkin of Perpetual IPA. Oh yeah.
~ You've likely heard of Boxcar Brewing Company out of West Chester, Pa. They make a fair amount of beer, though I don't see it around the city or 'burbs as much as I'd expect. Here's a good chance to drink of their beer while riding the rails.
Learn something
~ Early in the day, local beer historian Rich Wagner will be talking about the old days of brewing in Philadelphia at Philadelphia Brewing Company.
~ Don Feinberg and Wendy Littlefield, owners of Vanberg & Dewulf, are teaching at Tria's Fermentation School. You'll like the subject matter.
~ And, Thomas Schon from Mikkeller is "teaching" his own class earlier in the day at Farmers' Cabinet.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ I believe that I'll follow last year's equation and hit up the city first and finish up in the 'burbs. Therefore, I'll begin with a bite to eat (they're advertising fish & chips and meat pies) and a few glasses of cask-conditioned beer at Johnny Brenda's.
~ Stopping by Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant for a couple of "locals" and some fun 'n' games sounds like, well, fun. Before heading off to....
~ Big time fun 'n' games at Kite & Key. You've heard the history and the reputation of this event, I trust. If not, just show up. Trust me. You won't regret it. If not for the craziness, then for the always-solid lineup of beers.
~ Then, I finish up at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, for reasons stated above.
That takes care of day number two. Philly Beer Week & it's on!
Beer Calendar: What To Do in June 2012
Around Philadelphia, June only means one thing in the world of beer: Philly Beer Week. Beginning June 1, the fifth annual installment of the world's best 10 days of beer kicks off. Roughly 800 events (give or take, who's counting?) are scheduled.
Instead of listing them all out here, simply head over to PBW's official website. Also, keep tabs on the week at my own Philly Beer Week 2012 Index, where I'll be centralizing everything worth sharing with you during what always proves to be an epic ten-day show of the best the beer world has to offer.
Let's look now here instead at the rest of the month. If there's any beer left after PBW '12, here's what you can expect from establishments in and around Philadelphia.
If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.
$20 and under, down to and including FREE...Pay As You Go (PAYG) also included here
Philadelphia
All summer long - Twin Peaks on the Big Screen @Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa. (9:00pm; $PAYG)
Tue. 6/12 - Social Pass Beer Tasting @Triumph Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa. (7:00pm; $20)
Wed. 6/13 - Beer School at the Bottle Shop (June theme: "Best of Philly Beer Week") @Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa. (5:00pm; $Free)
Thu. 6/28 - Night Market @9th/Washington in South Philly, Philadelphia, Pa. (6:00pm-10:00pm; $PAYG)
Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/1 - Stoudt's Tasting @Blue Dog, Lansdale, Pa. (6:30pm; $Free & $PAYG)
Wed. 6/6 - Hop Fest @Jamison Pour House, Jamison, Pa. (12:00pm; $PAYG)
Mon. 6/11 - Sat. 6/16 - Philly Beer Week surprise leftovers @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 6/23 - Beer 101 @Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa. (1:00pm-3:00pm; $20)
Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/1 - Sat. 6/9 - Spinny Beer Days @Spinnerstown Hotel, Spinnerstown, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 6/1 - Friday Night Tasting (Sierra Nevada) @Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa. (5:00pm-7:00pm; $Free)
Fri. 6/1 - Incubus Friday @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30am; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/7 - Charity Cask Night (to benefit American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley) @Fegley's Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa. (5:00pm-9:00pm; $PAYG)
Fri. 6/15 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (Chester County Bitter, Route 113 IPA, Ichor) @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30am; $PAYG)
Sat. 6/16 - American Beer & Regional BBQ @Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa. (2:00pm-7:00pm; $PAYG)
Sat. 6/16 - Beer, Baseball & Backyard BBQ @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/21 - Allagash Tap Takeover @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (4:00pm; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/28 - Victory Tap Takeover @Goodnight Irene's, Wildwood, NJ. (7:00pm; $PAYG)
Events Over $20
Philadelphia
Sun. 6/3 - Willow Grove Craft Beer Festival @The Plaza at Willow Grove Park, Willow Grove, Pa. (12:00pm-5:00pm; $35/$45)
Tue. 6/19 - Brasserie Cantillon with Jean Van Roy @Monk's Café, Philadelphia, Pa. ($TBD)
Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/15 - Goose Island Beer Dinner @High Street Grill, Mount Holly, NJ (7:00pm; $45)
Tue. 6/19 - Brewmaster’s Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, Media, Pa. (7:00pm; $75)
Sat. 6/23 - Garden State Craft Brewers Guild Beer Festival @Battleship New Jersey, Camden, NJ (12:30pm-4:30pm; $45/$55)
Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 6/14 - All-American Beer Dinner @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (6:00pm; $55)
Sat. 6/16 - Yardley Beer Fest @South Delaware Avenue (under a big tent), Yardley, Pa. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $10/$35/$40)
Thu. 6/21 - Brewmaster's Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa. (7:00pm; $70)
Sat. 6/23 - PBS39 Microbrew Festival @Coca-Cola Park, Allentown, Pa. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $5/$25/$35/$40/$50)
Sat. 6/23 - Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival @downtown Lansdale, Pa. (12:00pm-4:00pm; $10/$20/$35/$65)
Sat. 6/30 - Brews By The Bay @Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal, Lewes, Del. (4:00pm-8:00pm; $5/$30)
Sat. 6/30 - Brew HA HA! Craft Beer Festival @Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, NJ (3:00pm-6:30pm; $19.99/$44.99/$49.99/$74.99)
Instead of listing them all out here, simply head over to PBW's official website. Also, keep tabs on the week at my own Philly Beer Week 2012 Index, where I'll be centralizing everything worth sharing with you during what always proves to be an epic ten-day show of the best the beer world has to offer.
Let's look now here instead at the rest of the month. If there's any beer left after PBW '12, here's what you can expect from establishments in and around Philadelphia.
If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.
$20 and under, down to and including FREE...Pay As You Go (PAYG) also included here
Philadelphia
All summer long - Twin Peaks on the Big Screen @Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa. (9:00pm; $PAYG)
Tue. 6/12 - Social Pass Beer Tasting @Triumph Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa. (7:00pm; $20)
Wed. 6/13 - Beer School at the Bottle Shop (June theme: "Best of Philly Beer Week") @Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa. (5:00pm; $Free)
Thu. 6/28 - Night Market @9th/Washington in South Philly, Philadelphia, Pa. (6:00pm-10:00pm; $PAYG)
Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/1 - Stoudt's Tasting @Blue Dog, Lansdale, Pa. (6:30pm; $Free & $PAYG)
Wed. 6/6 - Hop Fest @Jamison Pour House, Jamison, Pa. (12:00pm; $PAYG)
Mon. 6/11 - Sat. 6/16 - Philly Beer Week surprise leftovers @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sat. 6/23 - Beer 101 @Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa. (1:00pm-3:00pm; $20)
Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/1 - Sat. 6/9 - Spinny Beer Days @Spinnerstown Hotel, Spinnerstown, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 6/1 - Friday Night Tasting (Sierra Nevada) @Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa. (5:00pm-7:00pm; $Free)
Fri. 6/1 - Incubus Friday @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30am; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/7 - Charity Cask Night (to benefit American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley) @Fegley's Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa. (5:00pm-9:00pm; $PAYG)
Fri. 6/15 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (Chester County Bitter, Route 113 IPA, Ichor) @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30am; $PAYG)
Sat. 6/16 - American Beer & Regional BBQ @Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa. (2:00pm-7:00pm; $PAYG)
Sat. 6/16 - Beer, Baseball & Backyard BBQ @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/21 - Allagash Tap Takeover @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (4:00pm; $PAYG)
Thu. 6/28 - Victory Tap Takeover @Goodnight Irene's, Wildwood, NJ. (7:00pm; $PAYG)
Events Over $20
Philadelphia
Sun. 6/3 - Willow Grove Craft Beer Festival @The Plaza at Willow Grove Park, Willow Grove, Pa. (12:00pm-5:00pm; $35/$45)
Tue. 6/19 - Brasserie Cantillon with Jean Van Roy @Monk's Café, Philadelphia, Pa. ($TBD)
Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 6/15 - Goose Island Beer Dinner @High Street Grill, Mount Holly, NJ (7:00pm; $45)
Tue. 6/19 - Brewmaster’s Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, Media, Pa. (7:00pm; $75)
Sat. 6/23 - Garden State Craft Brewers Guild Beer Festival @Battleship New Jersey, Camden, NJ (12:30pm-4:30pm; $45/$55)
Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 6/14 - All-American Beer Dinner @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (6:00pm; $55)
Sat. 6/16 - Yardley Beer Fest @South Delaware Avenue (under a big tent), Yardley, Pa. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $10/$35/$40)
Thu. 6/21 - Brewmaster's Summer Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa. (7:00pm; $70)
Sat. 6/23 - PBS39 Microbrew Festival @Coca-Cola Park, Allentown, Pa. (1:00pm-5:00pm; $5/$25/$35/$40/$50)
Sat. 6/23 - Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival @downtown Lansdale, Pa. (12:00pm-4:00pm; $10/$20/$35/$65)
Sat. 6/30 - Brews By The Bay @Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal, Lewes, Del. (4:00pm-8:00pm; $5/$30)
Sat. 6/30 - Brew HA HA! Craft Beer Festival @Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, NJ (3:00pm-6:30pm; $19.99/$44.99/$49.99/$74.99)
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Pre-gaming Philly Beer Week with Russian River, Sierra Nevada, Brian Morin, and Monk's Café
Pre-gaming Philly Beer Week with Russian River, Sierra Nevada, Brian Morin, and Monk's Café
With so much eating, drinking, and writing on the horizon for the next two weeks, it's hard to imagine wanting to bite off (sorry) another assignment just days after returning from Belgium and days before embarking on the wild journey that will be Philly Beer Week #5.
But when a Cilurzo (Russian River), a Grossman (Sierra Nevada), and a Morin (beerbistro) conspire with a one Mr. Tom Peters at Monk's Café for a memorable beer dinner, well, it's just tough to say no.
There are not enough superlatives to describe last night's dinner at Monk's Café in Philadelphia. Russian River and Sierra Nevada Brewing Companies from northern California sent their top honchos in advance of Philly Beer Week to put on a dinner show of epic proportions. They each brought their wives as well.
To match the beer in the kitchen, Monk's brought in Brian Morin, a veteran of many Monk's Café dinners, from Toronto's famed beerbistro.
Let's get the menu out of the way up front this time.
Sierra Nevada Pilsner
~ served with an Amuse Bouche of toast point with local goat cheese and breakfast radish
Sierra Nevada/Russian River Brux
~ served with Smoked Black Cod with Brux crème fraîche and green papaya slaw
Russian River Row 2/Hill 56-The Story of Simcoe
~ served with Deckle Steak with local mushroom ragout and garlic scapes
Russian River/Sierra Nevada CBC Symposium Sour Brown
~ served with Foraged Salad with symposium vinaigrette
Sierra Nevada Southern Hemisphere Harvest
~ served with Pork Belly with grilled radicchio and asparagus
Russian River Defenestration
~ served with Lobster & Leek Ravioli
Russian River Supplication
~ served with Duck Breast with local, wild sour cherries
Sierra Nevada/Russian River ExPortation
~ served with a cheese plate of Monte Enebro (a Spanish goat's milk cheese) and Wilde Weide (an organic Dutch raw cow's milk cheese) and served with ExPortation honey
Sierra Nevada Knock on Wood
~ served with Bittersweet Chocolate Tart with espresso crème brûlée
Grossman and Cilurzo both led off the evening with comments regarding their deep love and appreciation for Philadelphia and its beer scene. They aren't sticking around for Philly Beer Week this time around, but when their friend, Peters, wants to include their beer in a dinner a few days prior to PBW, they made sure to clear their calendars.
The evening turned out to be quite the who's-who of beer in Philadelphia. It seemed as if half the crowd (both the front and back rooms, including barstools, were seated for this dinner) was a recognizable face from brewers to distributors to reps. It was a great chance to catch up with everyone, particularly just prior to the impending PBW madness.
Philly's own Beer Lass, and Allagash representative, Suzanne Woods tweeted something to the effect of "am I the only person not at tonight's dinner at Monk's?"
Some combination of Cilurzo, Grossman, and Peters introduced almost every pairing of the extravagant 9-course meal. The most interesting stories on the beer side of the table involved the Russian River Row 2/Hill 56 Simcoe as Cilurzo described the brewery's deepening ties to the hop farmers (in this case those that source his Simcoe hops from one of the three Yakima Valley farms that source all of the world's Simcoe), the Symposium Brown, and of course the collaborative Brux.
Cilurzo talked a bit about how the Symposium Brown came together for the 2011 Craft Brewers Conference with Ken Grossman (yeast), Brian (recipe), Fritz Maytag (barrels), and himself ("shepherd") each playing their respective role in crafting this fine sour beer with no fruit involved.
The new Brux is one of the more talked-about beers of 2012 if, as Grossman explained, for no other reason than getting the "old man (his father, Ken) to relent after 32 years of trying to keep Brettanomyces out of the brewery".
This was the first commercial pouring of the beer outside the northern California brewery walls.
Originally code-named Global Warming, this beer was born in Brian (and Gina) Grossman's kitchen, for father's fear at the time of introducing a wild yeast into the brewery operations. For my palate, the beer is a refreshing sour, not overly bracing, and displays lemon citrus flavors. The funk registers fairly low and it should be a beer that is interesting to follow as it ages in the bottle. It will be distributed through the Sierra Nevada network, though availability is promised to be extremely thin even in the Philadelphia market.
As for the food, the success of the kitchen on this particular night seemed to grow upon itself course after course. Morin began with a pleasing amuse bouche of radishes and goat cheese and moved into a delectable hunk of smoked, black cod. As well done as these first two bites were, the execution of some of the following courses — namely the steak, ravioli, duck, and chocolate tart — were delivered as perfectly as the words on the menu suggested they would be. There's nothing more disappointing than having high hopes after initially reading a menu be crushed when the fork hits the mouth. Not on this night.
How about those pairings, right? Morin had the chance to sit down with the beers ahead of time in Toronto to give himself the best chance for success in building the menu. In this guy's book, he scored the most points with the Brux and papaya slaw under the black cod, the Simcoe beer with the mushroom ragout on the steak plate, the Supplication and duck breasts with sour cherries, and (you could've guessed) the Knock on Wood and chocolate tart.
Special thanks to dining companion, Keith, for reminding me of Supplication and duck playing nicely together over five years ago at Monk's. Strong memory, this one has!
The Knock on Wood, since I haven't described it until this point (and hadn't even heard of such a beer until the dinner), is basically SN's Hellraiser beer, a chipotle/chocolate stout aged for 16 months in Heaven Hill barrels. Any hint of pepper had basically yielded to the barrel-aging effects and scored one last winning note on a menu full of tasty treats.
Yet, after all the superlatives, no amount of insults is greater than the ones that I'm boomeranging at myself this morning for one of the worst displays of inferior, offensive, and amateur pictures from the dinner. I suppose it proves that you can give a big boy a big camera, but that it guarantees nothing. To be fair, I was up for Beer Writer of the Year, not photographer. Still, I've included a few of the pictures that I snapped from the dinner, even (regrettfully) the well-composed one of Grossman, Peters, Cilurzo, and Morin. The only way I could make it halfway presentable for you was to turn it to black-and-white.
It's a crowded world of beer events around Philadelphia. Always has been and has only continued get more so over the years. Still, if you've not treated yourself to a special beer dinner at Monk's Café, then you've not yet experienced some of the best that the Philadelphia beer scene has to offer.
Philly Beer Week. It's on.
(from left: Brian Grossman-Sierra Nevada; Tom Peter's-Monk's Café; Vinnie Cilurzo-Russian River; Brian Morin-beerbistro)
(Chef Brian Morin, post-dinner, looking like he barely broke a sweat)
(the Monk's-ville Nine - what a lineup)
(Sierra Nevada Pilsner and Amuse Bouche)
(Sierra Nevada/Russian River Brux and Smoked Black Cod)
(Russian River Row 2/Hill 56 Simcoe and Deckle Steak)
(Russian River Defenestration and Lobster & Leek Ravioli)
(Russian River Supplication and Duck Breast)
(Sierra Nevada/Russian River ExPortation and the cheese plate)
(Sierra Nevada Knock on Wood and Chocolate Tart)
With so much eating, drinking, and writing on the horizon for the next two weeks, it's hard to imagine wanting to bite off (sorry) another assignment just days after returning from Belgium and days before embarking on the wild journey that will be Philly Beer Week #5.
But when a Cilurzo (Russian River), a Grossman (Sierra Nevada), and a Morin (beerbistro) conspire with a one Mr. Tom Peters at Monk's Café for a memorable beer dinner, well, it's just tough to say no.
There are not enough superlatives to describe last night's dinner at Monk's Café in Philadelphia. Russian River and Sierra Nevada Brewing Companies from northern California sent their top honchos in advance of Philly Beer Week to put on a dinner show of epic proportions. They each brought their wives as well.
To match the beer in the kitchen, Monk's brought in Brian Morin, a veteran of many Monk's Café dinners, from Toronto's famed beerbistro.
Let's get the menu out of the way up front this time.
Sierra Nevada Pilsner
~ served with an Amuse Bouche of toast point with local goat cheese and breakfast radish
Sierra Nevada/Russian River Brux
~ served with Smoked Black Cod with Brux crème fraîche and green papaya slaw
Russian River Row 2/Hill 56-The Story of Simcoe
~ served with Deckle Steak with local mushroom ragout and garlic scapes
Russian River/Sierra Nevada CBC Symposium Sour Brown
~ served with Foraged Salad with symposium vinaigrette
Sierra Nevada Southern Hemisphere Harvest
~ served with Pork Belly with grilled radicchio and asparagus
Russian River Defenestration
~ served with Lobster & Leek Ravioli
Russian River Supplication
~ served with Duck Breast with local, wild sour cherries
Sierra Nevada/Russian River ExPortation
~ served with a cheese plate of Monte Enebro (a Spanish goat's milk cheese) and Wilde Weide (an organic Dutch raw cow's milk cheese) and served with ExPortation honey
Sierra Nevada Knock on Wood
~ served with Bittersweet Chocolate Tart with espresso crème brûlée
Grossman and Cilurzo both led off the evening with comments regarding their deep love and appreciation for Philadelphia and its beer scene. They aren't sticking around for Philly Beer Week this time around, but when their friend, Peters, wants to include their beer in a dinner a few days prior to PBW, they made sure to clear their calendars.
The evening turned out to be quite the who's-who of beer in Philadelphia. It seemed as if half the crowd (both the front and back rooms, including barstools, were seated for this dinner) was a recognizable face from brewers to distributors to reps. It was a great chance to catch up with everyone, particularly just prior to the impending PBW madness.
Philly's own Beer Lass, and Allagash representative, Suzanne Woods tweeted something to the effect of "am I the only person not at tonight's dinner at Monk's?"
Some combination of Cilurzo, Grossman, and Peters introduced almost every pairing of the extravagant 9-course meal. The most interesting stories on the beer side of the table involved the Russian River Row 2/Hill 56 Simcoe as Cilurzo described the brewery's deepening ties to the hop farmers (in this case those that source his Simcoe hops from one of the three Yakima Valley farms that source all of the world's Simcoe), the Symposium Brown, and of course the collaborative Brux.
Cilurzo talked a bit about how the Symposium Brown came together for the 2011 Craft Brewers Conference with Ken Grossman (yeast), Brian (recipe), Fritz Maytag (barrels), and himself ("shepherd") each playing their respective role in crafting this fine sour beer with no fruit involved.
The new Brux is one of the more talked-about beers of 2012 if, as Grossman explained, for no other reason than getting the "old man (his father, Ken) to relent after 32 years of trying to keep Brettanomyces out of the brewery".
This was the first commercial pouring of the beer outside the northern California brewery walls.
Originally code-named Global Warming, this beer was born in Brian (and Gina) Grossman's kitchen, for father's fear at the time of introducing a wild yeast into the brewery operations. For my palate, the beer is a refreshing sour, not overly bracing, and displays lemon citrus flavors. The funk registers fairly low and it should be a beer that is interesting to follow as it ages in the bottle. It will be distributed through the Sierra Nevada network, though availability is promised to be extremely thin even in the Philadelphia market.
As for the food, the success of the kitchen on this particular night seemed to grow upon itself course after course. Morin began with a pleasing amuse bouche of radishes and goat cheese and moved into a delectable hunk of smoked, black cod. As well done as these first two bites were, the execution of some of the following courses — namely the steak, ravioli, duck, and chocolate tart — were delivered as perfectly as the words on the menu suggested they would be. There's nothing more disappointing than having high hopes after initially reading a menu be crushed when the fork hits the mouth. Not on this night.
How about those pairings, right? Morin had the chance to sit down with the beers ahead of time in Toronto to give himself the best chance for success in building the menu. In this guy's book, he scored the most points with the Brux and papaya slaw under the black cod, the Simcoe beer with the mushroom ragout on the steak plate, the Supplication and duck breasts with sour cherries, and (you could've guessed) the Knock on Wood and chocolate tart.
Special thanks to dining companion, Keith, for reminding me of Supplication and duck playing nicely together over five years ago at Monk's. Strong memory, this one has!
The Knock on Wood, since I haven't described it until this point (and hadn't even heard of such a beer until the dinner), is basically SN's Hellraiser beer, a chipotle/chocolate stout aged for 16 months in Heaven Hill barrels. Any hint of pepper had basically yielded to the barrel-aging effects and scored one last winning note on a menu full of tasty treats.
Yet, after all the superlatives, no amount of insults is greater than the ones that I'm boomeranging at myself this morning for one of the worst displays of inferior, offensive, and amateur pictures from the dinner. I suppose it proves that you can give a big boy a big camera, but that it guarantees nothing. To be fair, I was up for Beer Writer of the Year, not photographer. Still, I've included a few of the pictures that I snapped from the dinner, even (regrettfully) the well-composed one of Grossman, Peters, Cilurzo, and Morin. The only way I could make it halfway presentable for you was to turn it to black-and-white.
It's a crowded world of beer events around Philadelphia. Always has been and has only continued get more so over the years. Still, if you've not treated yourself to a special beer dinner at Monk's Café, then you've not yet experienced some of the best that the Philadelphia beer scene has to offer.
Philly Beer Week. It's on.
Philly Beer Week 2012: Day 1 Preview
At least a day prior to each day of Philly Beer Week 2012, I'll be posting up a small look into what to expect both in terms of the day's calendar of events as well as key/significant/interesting events as well as where you might likely spot me during the day and/or night.
Here's a look into the first day, June 1.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ The hardcore beer geeks, I predict will show up at least one of the following events: Barrel-aged Terrapin beer at Varga; the Bella Vista Bash at Devil's Den; Gypsy brewers at Tria Fermentation School; and Mikkeller at Farmers' Cabinet.
For the hungry
~ If you've not eaten at Brauhaus Schmitz, you likely don't know what you're missing. You're in luck here where head chef, Jeremy Nolen, will be hosting a dinner at Cook.
~ Food, beer, and Bill Covaleski (Victory Brewing Company) sounds like a great way to get to know the new Alla Spina on North Broad Street.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ There likely is not a sight to behold more wild and wacky than the Hammer of Glory tour route that it will embark on beginning at 7 a.m. at Devil's Den and wrapping up an exhausting 12 hours later at the Opening Tap event in historic Old City Philadelphia at the Independence Visitors Center. It's not very practical to think that many would follow the Hammer for the full 12 hours, but if you haven't seen it en route in the past, be sure to check this out during at least one of its stops along the way. So far, the weather looks to be cooperating for this unique "parade", so use this opportunity to start your Philly Beer Week on a fun note — like there's any other way.
~ Do you want to see folks dressed in tank tops, trucker hats, and daisy dukes? I probably don't; hold on while I re-consider the daisy dukes. Varga Bar is having Southern food event that sounds like a blast if you do.
Possibly under the radar
~ Since I'll almost likely be taking the train in from the 'burbs, it goes without saying that I'll be at Bridgewater's Pub inside 30th Street train station multiple times during the week. On this first day, they'll be showcasing Czech Pilsners from Staropramen. Count me there too to help lift this on to the radar.
~ Doobies always seems off the radar. But, on June 1, they've got Matt Allyn and a bunch of his beers in tow that should make for a swell evening.
~ Resurrection Ale from Brewer's Art (Baltimore) is back courtesy of Sly Fox Brewing Company. It'll be around town, but why not take it in at Resurrection Ale House?
Learn something
~ There's a connection to Philadelphia'a brewing past buried at Christ Church in Old City. Learn more any night of the week at 5:30 p.m. for a short tour.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ As much as I talk up the Hammer of Glory, I just took off over two weeks from work to hang out in Belgium. Taking another day off work at this point simply is not in the cards.
~ Opening Tap is fun, but there is so much else going on during it. Used to be that very little happened until Opening Tap officially kicked things off, but times have changed. Seeing the Mayor do his ceremonial tapping is always cool and a lot of who's-who is typically inside, but I may pass on it this year to search out what else is going on during it. Like...
~ I still have not been to American Sardine, so swinging by for some cheese and Ommegang beer sounds like a fine way to get the night underway.
~ Then over to P.O.P.E. to find out how they handle this "World's Smallest Toast" from La Chouffe that I've been hearing more about in the last couple of weeks.
~ Up to Devil's Den for the Bella Vista Bash could get me in trouble, time-wise, but looking at some of the rare draft lines that they'll have flowing might make it quite worth the risk.
~ Monk's will be one of the first places to showcase the PBW collaboration beer between Iron Hill and Brasserie Dupont in Belgium. Stopping in for a quick one would be appropriate.
~ While in Belgium, Sly Fox's head of sales, Patrick Mullin, convinced me that Fergie's should be the proper place to descend upon after Opening Tap — or wherever the night has taken you up until that point. Live bluegrass music and Sly Fox beer sounds like the right ticket.
That's a bit much to digest for the first day. I'll see what I can do to condense the recommendations in coming days, but I make no promises; you might have heard, Philly Beer Week is huge!
Here's a look into the first day, June 1.
For the ravenous beer geeks
~ The hardcore beer geeks, I predict will show up at least one of the following events: Barrel-aged Terrapin beer at Varga; the Bella Vista Bash at Devil's Den; Gypsy brewers at Tria Fermentation School; and Mikkeller at Farmers' Cabinet.
For the hungry
~ If you've not eaten at Brauhaus Schmitz, you likely don't know what you're missing. You're in luck here where head chef, Jeremy Nolen, will be hosting a dinner at Cook.
~ Food, beer, and Bill Covaleski (Victory Brewing Company) sounds like a great way to get to know the new Alla Spina on North Broad Street.
For the wild and wacky and downright different
~ There likely is not a sight to behold more wild and wacky than the Hammer of Glory tour route that it will embark on beginning at 7 a.m. at Devil's Den and wrapping up an exhausting 12 hours later at the Opening Tap event in historic Old City Philadelphia at the Independence Visitors Center. It's not very practical to think that many would follow the Hammer for the full 12 hours, but if you haven't seen it en route in the past, be sure to check this out during at least one of its stops along the way. So far, the weather looks to be cooperating for this unique "parade", so use this opportunity to start your Philly Beer Week on a fun note — like there's any other way.
~ Do you want to see folks dressed in tank tops, trucker hats, and daisy dukes? I probably don't; hold on while I re-consider the daisy dukes. Varga Bar is having Southern food event that sounds like a blast if you do.
Possibly under the radar
~ Since I'll almost likely be taking the train in from the 'burbs, it goes without saying that I'll be at Bridgewater's Pub inside 30th Street train station multiple times during the week. On this first day, they'll be showcasing Czech Pilsners from Staropramen. Count me there too to help lift this on to the radar.
~ Doobies always seems off the radar. But, on June 1, they've got Matt Allyn and a bunch of his beers in tow that should make for a swell evening.
~ Resurrection Ale from Brewer's Art (Baltimore) is back courtesy of Sly Fox Brewing Company. It'll be around town, but why not take it in at Resurrection Ale House?
Learn something
~ There's a connection to Philadelphia'a brewing past buried at Christ Church in Old City. Learn more any night of the week at 5:30 p.m. for a short tour.
And for The Brew Lounge
~ As much as I talk up the Hammer of Glory, I just took off over two weeks from work to hang out in Belgium. Taking another day off work at this point simply is not in the cards.
~ Opening Tap is fun, but there is so much else going on during it. Used to be that very little happened until Opening Tap officially kicked things off, but times have changed. Seeing the Mayor do his ceremonial tapping is always cool and a lot of who's-who is typically inside, but I may pass on it this year to search out what else is going on during it. Like...
~ I still have not been to American Sardine, so swinging by for some cheese and Ommegang beer sounds like a fine way to get the night underway.
~ Then over to P.O.P.E. to find out how they handle this "World's Smallest Toast" from La Chouffe that I've been hearing more about in the last couple of weeks.
~ Up to Devil's Den for the Bella Vista Bash could get me in trouble, time-wise, but looking at some of the rare draft lines that they'll have flowing might make it quite worth the risk.
~ Monk's will be one of the first places to showcase the PBW collaboration beer between Iron Hill and Brasserie Dupont in Belgium. Stopping in for a quick one would be appropriate.
~ While in Belgium, Sly Fox's head of sales, Patrick Mullin, convinced me that Fergie's should be the proper place to descend upon after Opening Tap — or wherever the night has taken you up until that point. Live bluegrass music and Sly Fox beer sounds like the right ticket.
That's a bit much to digest for the first day. I'll see what I can do to condense the recommendations in coming days, but I make no promises; you might have heard, Philly Beer Week is huge!
Philly Beer Scene awards
The 2012 Philly Beer Scene awards took place while was on the big Belgian trip.
Lew Bryson was there and covered it with his perspectives.
Jack Curtin posted the full list of winners.
And, Philly Beer Photo Guy about town, Steve Lyford, documented it in a pile of pictures that you can find via this link.
Also sticking with theme of posting all the pictures you take (sorry, guys, it's too easy to jab at), Philly Beer Scene posted pictures at its Facebook account.
As I mentioned in the comments at Curtin's site, in brief: "...look at the winners and give them the credit they deserve, almost all of which are difficult to argue. And, celebrate all of the nominees (whom, if I’m not mistaken, are chosen by their peers, not the public) that go a long way in making up our rich fabric..."
Just in time for Philly Beer Week to begin.
Lew Bryson was there and covered it with his perspectives.
Jack Curtin posted the full list of winners.
And, Philly Beer Photo Guy about town, Steve Lyford, documented it in a pile of pictures that you can find via this link.
Also sticking with theme of posting all the pictures you take (sorry, guys, it's too easy to jab at), Philly Beer Scene posted pictures at its Facebook account.
As I mentioned in the comments at Curtin's site, in brief: "...look at the winners and give them the credit they deserve, almost all of which are difficult to argue. And, celebrate all of the nominees (whom, if I’m not mistaken, are chosen by their peers, not the public) that go a long way in making up our rich fabric..."
Just in time for Philly Beer Week to begin.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Philly Beer Week 2012: Here's some of what I've found
Okay, then. After asking last week for your recommendations, I've received some pointers from many of you in the form of comments, e-mails, and Facebook recommendations.
I've taken these and cruised the PBW '12 calendar to put together a half-baked plan of attack for June 1-10. Along the way, I've made some observations and a list of things you might find interesting as well.
Allow me to selfishly get my endeavor out of the way here first.
There are currently 280 runners (and counting) signed up to do the first official Philly Beer Run 5-k at Dock Street on June 10, the last day of Philly Beer Week. The run coincides with the annual music fest which always draws many hundreds more.
We're capping it at 400 runners, and I fully expect to hit the cap as the week of PBW goes along. Don't be left out; sign up now. Great prizes, schwag, and post-party included! Plus, you can volunteer if you don't feel like running. (We'll love you just as much for doing that, too.)
All the details here: http://dockstreetbeer.com/PBR.html
I've covered all the years of Philly Beer Week. I feel pretty confident to say that no one has covered it more comprehensively. If you'd like some background and context (and pictures for added illustration), perhaps you can begin with this link to last year's wrap-up.
In my last few days of intense research to catch up post-Belgium, here's just a smattering of other goodies that I've uncovered that seem worth sharing with you. Random, incomplete, and in no particular order.
~ Hammer of Glory route stopping along the way at some of the best of the best
~ Opening Tap for a mayoral kickoff
~ All week long at the Four Seasons Hotel with the With Love Beer Garden, including Sly Fox's Kan Jam again on this year on Thursday. I'll be participating again with William Reed as my teammate. Wonder if there's a way the high-end hotel might include some mention on its own website?!
~ VIP pass for the hardcore
~ More kink this year than ever. Between Woodies, Delilah's, The Institute, and The Trestle Inn (others likely, too), you'll find event names and descriptions that could make you, or at least maybe your grandmother (unless she's the really cool type of grandmother) blush. Will be interesting to hear how those nights will go.
~ Ben Franklin/Casey Parker
video #1
video #2
~ I'd have to compare to last year's calendar, but a cursory review (and some talking around as well) gives me the sense that the suburbs are scaling back this year. I won't get in to it, but if you read closely enough, you know my feeling on this topic.
~ There are close to twenty events in the "Home Brewing" category. Pretty cool that this segment of brewing gets the proper nod as well. Historically, these events are usually home runs.
~ There are over 50 events categorized as "Free Beer for Sparks". What exactly is that?
~ Have many venues not yet posted events or did they pay only to advertise themselves on the PBW website? Curious, since I'm trying to envision which events might pop up at the Xfinity Live bars that are listed on the calendar. They're not the only ones.
~ Smartphone app is as good as ever. Still beats the website, imo, which in fairness, though, as come a long way in five years. Nice to see events can still be tagged as "favorites" in the phone app, however the ability to save private lists of events via the website seems to have disappeared this year.
~ Even in my absence this year, an enterprising soul has taken my spreadsheets of the past and done something similar, posting up a version and sharing it at Google Docs. Flattered, I am :)
Check it out, but don't forget for the most accurate Philly Beer Week schedule, consult the official PBW website...even better yet, contact establishments directly.
Twitter: @PhillyBeerWeek
Hashtag: I've seen #PBW2012, but #PBW is more common and less than forty of those all-important characters in the Twitterverse
Facebook page: Philly-Beer-Week
I've taken these and cruised the PBW '12 calendar to put together a half-baked plan of attack for June 1-10. Along the way, I've made some observations and a list of things you might find interesting as well.
Allow me to selfishly get my endeavor out of the way here first.
There are currently 280 runners (and counting) signed up to do the first official Philly Beer Run 5-k at Dock Street on June 10, the last day of Philly Beer Week. The run coincides with the annual music fest which always draws many hundreds more.
We're capping it at 400 runners, and I fully expect to hit the cap as the week of PBW goes along. Don't be left out; sign up now. Great prizes, schwag, and post-party included! Plus, you can volunteer if you don't feel like running. (We'll love you just as much for doing that, too.)
All the details here: http://dockstreetbeer.com/PBR.html
I've covered all the years of Philly Beer Week. I feel pretty confident to say that no one has covered it more comprehensively. If you'd like some background and context (and pictures for added illustration), perhaps you can begin with this link to last year's wrap-up.
In my last few days of intense research to catch up post-Belgium, here's just a smattering of other goodies that I've uncovered that seem worth sharing with you. Random, incomplete, and in no particular order.
~ Hammer of Glory route stopping along the way at some of the best of the best
~ Opening Tap for a mayoral kickoff
~ All week long at the Four Seasons Hotel with the With Love Beer Garden, including Sly Fox's Kan Jam again on this year on Thursday. I'll be participating again with William Reed as my teammate. Wonder if there's a way the high-end hotel might include some mention on its own website?!
~ VIP pass for the hardcore
~ More kink this year than ever. Between Woodies, Delilah's, The Institute, and The Trestle Inn (others likely, too), you'll find event names and descriptions that could make you, or at least maybe your grandmother (unless she's the really cool type of grandmother) blush. Will be interesting to hear how those nights will go.
~ Ben Franklin/Casey Parker
video #1
video #2
~ I'd have to compare to last year's calendar, but a cursory review (and some talking around as well) gives me the sense that the suburbs are scaling back this year. I won't get in to it, but if you read closely enough, you know my feeling on this topic.
~ There are close to twenty events in the "Home Brewing" category. Pretty cool that this segment of brewing gets the proper nod as well. Historically, these events are usually home runs.
~ There are over 50 events categorized as "Free Beer for Sparks". What exactly is that?
~ Have many venues not yet posted events or did they pay only to advertise themselves on the PBW website? Curious, since I'm trying to envision which events might pop up at the Xfinity Live bars that are listed on the calendar. They're not the only ones.
~ Smartphone app is as good as ever. Still beats the website, imo, which in fairness, though, as come a long way in five years. Nice to see events can still be tagged as "favorites" in the phone app, however the ability to save private lists of events via the website seems to have disappeared this year.
~ Even in my absence this year, an enterprising soul has taken my spreadsheets of the past and done something similar, posting up a version and sharing it at Google Docs. Flattered, I am :)
Check it out, but don't forget for the most accurate Philly Beer Week schedule, consult the official PBW website...even better yet, contact establishments directly.
Twitter: @PhillyBeerWeek
Hashtag: I've seen #PBW2012, but #PBW is more common and less than forty of those all-important characters in the Twitterverse
Facebook page: Philly-Beer-Week
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