We continue to plow through the month of May's beer calendar with wild abandon. You wouldn't know Philly Beer Week is upon us with the rate of beer events lining up the weekly calendar yet again this week. No rest for the thirsty.
In the 19468, Suburban Beer Week continues on through Sunday, May 19. It's at Craft Ale House, French Quarter Bistro, Lucky Lab Tavern, and Railroad Street Bar and Grill. There are scheduled tastings, pairings, and a raffle on Sunday, the last day, to give away two tickets to Opening Tap of Philly Beer Week and an overnight stay at a nearby hotel for that same evening of May 31. To qualify for the drawing, you must attend an event at each location.
Check out the entire May 2013 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.
Events with Tap Lists via PhillyTapFinder.com
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Stone Brewing Night (4 p.m.; $PAYG for a special event draft list lineup brought to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
Tastings/Samplings/Freebies
@Arroga's Draft House and Sports Bar, Harrisburg, Pa.--- Fri. 5/17 - Firkin Friday with DuClaw Sweet Baby Jesus (5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; $PAYG to celebrate American Craft Beer Week with a firkin of DuClaw Sweet Baby Jesus. Stop by the draft house for a pint and grab some free glassware while supplies last.)
@Craft Beer Outlet, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Philadelphia Brewing Tasting (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Philadelphia Brewing.)
@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Fri. 5/17 - Hop Attack (11 a.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for Dark Ritual, Nor’easter IPA, Sweet Leaf IPA, Rye-sing Sun, Nelson Muntz IPA, and Kryptonite Imperial IPA.)
@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Sat. 5/18 - Preakness Stakes (4 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of Belgian Tripel.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/22 - Wednesday Keg Tapping (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a specialty keg tapping of Stone Oaked Smoked Old Guardian.)
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/20 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Founders in Michigan.)
@Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/17 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for O'Reilly's Stout on the handpump in addition to Standard Porter and our always available Chester County Bitter.)
@The Beer Shoppe, Ardmore, Pa.--- Fri. 5/17 - Friday Night Tasting (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from 21st Amendment in San Francisco and Uinto in Utah.)
Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@30th Street Station, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 & Fri. 5/17 - The Porch Beer Garden (3 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG to experience the outdoor Beer Garden at The Porch at 30th Street Station, the second busiest train station in America. Bridgewater's Pub will offer German and craft beers while you enjoy the fresh air and live music.)
@Earth Bread + Brewery, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Stoudt's Promo (4:30 p.m.; $PAYG for a lineup of beers from one of Pennsylvania's pioneering craft brewers.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/31 - Brewery Of The Month ($PAYG for daily specials on beers from breweries in the great State of Pennsylvania.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Pennsylvania Brewery Night ($PAYG for a night of beer, schwag, and fun focused on the Pennsylvania breweries of the month.)
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - A Night with Flying Fish (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for a selection of beers from the highly-regarded NJ brewery.)
@Uno Chicago Grill, Newtown Square, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Yards Happy Hour (5 p.m.; $PAYG for an IPA firkin, Love Stout, Saison, and Grand Cru all at happy hour pricing.)
Special One-offs or Debuts, Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Firewaters, Atlantic City, NJ--- Fri. 5/17 - 10th Anniversary Beerfest (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $25 for over 45 beers to sample from over a dozen local brewers and a complimentary buffet.)
@Iron Hill, Media, Pa.--- Sat. 5/18 - Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers' Festival (1 p.m.; $5-$45 for nearly 25 local breweries and all of the proceeds will again go to the Media Youth Center.)
@South Delaware Avenue, Yardley, Pa.--- Sat. 5/18 - Yardley Beer Fest (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$65 for over 50 breweries, 100+ beers, live music, lots of food, homebrewers corner…All under a huge tent; Rain or shine.)
@South Philadelphia Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/18 - Wheaties Fest (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as they pour 30+ wheat beers from Abita, Allagash, Bell’s, Philly Brewing, Ommegang, Tröegs, Unibroue, Weihenstephaner, and many many more. Mouth-watering street BBQ and live music from West Philadelphia Orchestra, Robotrippers, Arrah and the Ferns, and Adam and Dave’s Bloodline.)
@Union Jack's, Glenside, Pa.--- Sat. 5/18 - Suburban Wood Fest ($PAYG for twelve oak-aged beers on draft including 2011 Southern Tier Oaked Pumking, Goose Island Bourbon County, Nebraska Hop God, Anderson Valley Barney Flats, Evolution Migration, Flying Dog gonzo, Southern Tier Backburner Barleywine, and many more.)
@World Café Live, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/22 - Philly Beer Scene Awards (7 p.m.-11 p.m.; $75 for very limited seats available to the general public.)
Food and Beer events
@Fairmount neighborhood (22nd/Fairmount), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/16 - Night Market (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG at the city's best restaurants and street food vendors including Fairmount favorites like Alla Spina, Lemon Hill, Rembrandt's, and Urban Saloon and cool new vendors like The Tot Cart, Poi Dog Snack Shop, and The Cow and The Curd. Plus, local music, local brews, and lots of fun.)
@Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ--- Tue. 5/21 - Spring Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five course meal served with Full Nelson, Maibock, Rauchbock, #100, and “The Stout Will Rise Again”- Bourbon Russian Imperial Stout.)
Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa.--- Sun. 5/19 - Run for Ryan (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $25-$35 for a 5-k race benefiting the Ryan McCall scholarship fund. Post race festivities at the Victory Brewing Companies complex.)
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Weekly Second-Hand Brews News Update: 5/11/13
I long ago lost the ability to keep up with even half the beer news out there in the wild and wacky world of craft beer. There was a time I attempted daily (or even more frequent) updates with interesting tidbits from around the brewniverse along with small contributions of my own thoughts.
That has yielded to my weekly updates that you'll find here every Saturday morning with some of what I consider to be some of the more interesting news out there that you might like to add to your weekend reading list (or Monday morning at work, depending upon your preference).
Enjoy.
PHILADELPHIA
~ After last week's desperate search for brews news around Philly, here's a nice guide to get you primed for Philly Beer Week.
~ Yeah, Philly's on this list where it belongs. I'm not going to debate the placement, but no doubt it belongs on a list of the country's top eight.
~ And a few more good bits about Philly's beer scene.
~ Some are really excited about Shiner coming to town. I'm not so much, well not at least for the Bock. I've been to Texas enough to know that I'm rather indiffernt about the Bock. The Hefeweizen and Black Lager, on the other hand, hit me right where I like 'em.
EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ I'm a big fan of the Legend Pilsner too. I know a lot of people like Pilsners (and Pilseners too), but often times we have difficulty describing our love for them.
THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ Wish I'd written this, as it's been on my mind quite a bit in the past couple of years (then why wouldn't I just come out and say so? I know, I know) "when US craft will stop trying to pretend all brewers are small start ups"
~ Anyone who knows me knows why I love this perspective..from a brewer no less
~ You technical brewers will probably really dig this.
~ You ever hear me tell of that bar in San Francisco that I would have like to try this approach to bill resolution?
~ Sigh, sure give me one of those boutique beers, I suppose.
That has yielded to my weekly updates that you'll find here every Saturday morning with some of what I consider to be some of the more interesting news out there that you might like to add to your weekend reading list (or Monday morning at work, depending upon your preference).
Enjoy.
PHILADELPHIA
~ After last week's desperate search for brews news around Philly, here's a nice guide to get you primed for Philly Beer Week.
~ Yeah, Philly's on this list where it belongs. I'm not going to debate the placement, but no doubt it belongs on a list of the country's top eight.
~ And a few more good bits about Philly's beer scene.
~ Some are really excited about Shiner coming to town. I'm not so much, well not at least for the Bock. I've been to Texas enough to know that I'm rather indiffernt about the Bock. The Hefeweizen and Black Lager, on the other hand, hit me right where I like 'em.
EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ I'm a big fan of the Legend Pilsner too. I know a lot of people like Pilsners (and Pilseners too), but often times we have difficulty describing our love for them.
THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ Wish I'd written this, as it's been on my mind quite a bit in the past couple of years (then why wouldn't I just come out and say so? I know, I know) "when US craft will stop trying to pretend all brewers are small start ups"
~ Anyone who knows me knows why I love this perspective..from a brewer no less
~ You technical brewers will probably really dig this.
~ You ever hear me tell of that bar in San Francisco that I would have like to try this approach to bill resolution?
~ Sigh, sure give me one of those boutique beers, I suppose.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Writing this ship, Part IX (Providence, RI and Manchester, NH)
While this series of Writing the Ship could go on for a baker's dozen, I'm really trying to get this done with and in our collective pasts (unless, of course, I'm the only one reading them) in ten episodes.
In keeping with habit, I'll provide you links back to The "Intro", Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V, Part VI, Part VII, and Part VIII.
So I'm combining these two — Providence and Manchester — into one. They should fit quite nicely with each other since neither one alone will make this entry into The Brew Lounge burst at the seams.
But, as I've said plenty in the past, there's nearly nowhere you can go in this fine country these days without finding some sort of a better beer scene. Whether they're importing decent beer or making it, most places you could ever imagine finding yourselves will be able to pour you something decent.
Providence. I feel I've spoken in dribs and drabs of Providence through the years. For my day job, I've been there many times in the past six years or so. Enough to determine that, when there, I rarely want to be anywhere other than Julian's.
(The always stellar draft tower at Julian's in Providence, RI)
Julian's for their breakfast, lunch, dinner, live music, indoor seating, outdoor seating, cozy/friendly seating the small bar overlooking the kitchen, or sitting in the comfortably eclectic one-room restaurant. The beer list is as interesting and diverse as the food menu.
(A creatively satisfying sandwich off the specials menu at Julian's in Providence, RI)
Every time I'm there, without fail, some sort of interesting conversation takes off at the bar and a few decent beers are consumed. I've been to a handful of other spots around town, Julian's remains my favorite.
(Out back of Julian's in Providence, RI)
(The dining room at Julian's in Providence, RI)
Those others? Well, there's been the John Harvard's at Union Station (nice location and atmosphere in a former train station with decent enough beers). There's the "local-themed" Local 121 which has a nice lineup of beers on tap to keep things interesting amongst an even more interestingly-conceived food menu of fresh, seasonal, and local.
Turns out, I later learned that there's an ownership relationship between the Trinity Brewing Company just around the corner and Local 121. Trinity has been around for a while and delivers some decent beer in what comes across as a younger, more "hip" environment. Their Irish Stout and IPA have treated me consistently well in the past.
(An excellent seasonal corn and crab soup at Local 121 in Providence, RI)
For retail beer, there are two on opposite sides of town that have served me well through the years. The first, Nikki's Liquors, is on the edge of North Providence (that's a separate city, btw, in case you need to know this sort of thing). Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, Nikki's is stocked with a good representation of regional beers as well as an impressive inventory of beers from around the world.
Closer to the airport in the area of Cranston is Wines & More of Rhode Island. More alcohol supermarket-style in layout, they have row and cooler after row of beers from around the region and world at competitive prices. Conveniently located next to a Whole Foods Market, it makes for a great one-two shopping stop for beverage and food.
The one place to close out the discussion of Providence with is nearly just across the street from airport. If it came to it, walking from Track 84 to the front door of the T.F. Green airport is not impossible at just under a half-mile. But, did I use the word unassuming above? I'll use it again where here it is probably even more appropriate.
Track 84 sits, appropriately, along the railroad tracks leading from the south into Providence and up eventually to Boston. If I had a picture (oh, what the heck, here's a Google street view), I'd show you how nondescript of a small building it is.
But inside, you'll find friendly service with a local flair, a simple but sufficient and satisfying sandwich menu and free popcorn, a decidedly local crowd of no-nonsense but friendly folks, and a beer list that rivals some of the best around. There's a kick-ass jukebox as well to keep the energy flowing.
But, don't press your luck, as I did, and get ensconced in happy hour revelry and run the risk of missing your flight. I took my trust of the flight tracking app on my phone as far as I should and made my flight by the slimmest of margins. Still, I wouldn't trade those last memories of beers in Providence (or Warwick, if we're being more specific) for sitting at the gate any day. Don't believe me, check out the draft list via this link.
Up the road a piece in New Hampshire is Manchester, a town to which I'd never been until late last year. I can't tell you that there's much happening in Manchester but, then again, I can't tell you that there's not much happening there either. It was just one night passing through on the way to Boston, but that was enough to check out Strange Brew Tavern and Milly's Tavern.
Strange Brew is in the heart of downtown and while the city streets appear sleepy (though, I suppose I can give them a break, it was bitterly cold after all , the hustle was bustling inside. Every Sunday, they run a special that's hard to beat. $3 draft specials and 1/2 price appetizers. With a few White Birch beers on the draft menu at $3, my mind was made up right quickly. With a very solid draft list (with great regional representation from breweries like Smuttynose, White Birch, Shipyard, Magic Hat, Otter Creek, and Trout River and a food menu consisting of solid pub favorites like fried pickles, wings, nachos, and quesadillas and heartier dishes like meatballs, fish tacos, short ribs, jambalaya, and Shepard's Pie, this is a dependable recommendation for any thirsty beer traveler passing through the region.
Over by the campus of University of New Hampshire-Manchester along the Merrimac River, Milly's Tavern is an interesting spot. It is Manchester's only brewery so that is certainly part of the initial draw. Finding it is not an obvious slam dunk, though I'm sure the second visit would be easier than the first.
Once you find your way to a parking spot and down the few steps into Milly's, you'll find yourself in room with a stage in the front and a bar in the back. There they combine live music, some decent beer made on-premise, and a satisfying food menu of standard pub grub, salads, wraps, and sandwiches.
While the Oatmeal Stout and Red Tail were solid and enjoyable beers, after putting away the BLT sandwich, it was time to head out as Sunday night head-banging (and mediocre, to boot) music was not high on my list of wants. Still, if in Manchester, not a bad place to stop, but certainly don't bump Strange Brew for it.
That's about all I can share from Manchester, unless you count the attempted visit to The Tap in Haverhill along the Monday evening drive to Boston. CLOSED MONDAYS?! Yes, that was my exclamation (question mark and incredulity included) when arriving at a darkened downtown storefront whose beers I've had numerous times at Ommegang's summertime BCTC festival. Here I was a bit excited to consume some on site and CLOSED MONDAYS. Sheesh.
Well, that door closed, so the one that opened was up the street at Krueger Flatbread, which must be said was an excellent stop for pizza (er, pardon me, flatbreads) and a Sierra Nevada before heading off to Boston.
In keeping with habit, I'll provide you links back to The "Intro", Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V, Part VI, Part VII, and Part VIII.
So I'm combining these two — Providence and Manchester — into one. They should fit quite nicely with each other since neither one alone will make this entry into The Brew Lounge burst at the seams.
But, as I've said plenty in the past, there's nearly nowhere you can go in this fine country these days without finding some sort of a better beer scene. Whether they're importing decent beer or making it, most places you could ever imagine finding yourselves will be able to pour you something decent.
Providence. I feel I've spoken in dribs and drabs of Providence through the years. For my day job, I've been there many times in the past six years or so. Enough to determine that, when there, I rarely want to be anywhere other than Julian's.
Julian's for their breakfast, lunch, dinner, live music, indoor seating, outdoor seating, cozy/friendly seating the small bar overlooking the kitchen, or sitting in the comfortably eclectic one-room restaurant. The beer list is as interesting and diverse as the food menu.
Every time I'm there, without fail, some sort of interesting conversation takes off at the bar and a few decent beers are consumed. I've been to a handful of other spots around town, Julian's remains my favorite.
Those others? Well, there's been the John Harvard's at Union Station (nice location and atmosphere in a former train station with decent enough beers). There's the "local-themed" Local 121 which has a nice lineup of beers on tap to keep things interesting amongst an even more interestingly-conceived food menu of fresh, seasonal, and local.
Turns out, I later learned that there's an ownership relationship between the Trinity Brewing Company just around the corner and Local 121. Trinity has been around for a while and delivers some decent beer in what comes across as a younger, more "hip" environment. Their Irish Stout and IPA have treated me consistently well in the past.
For retail beer, there are two on opposite sides of town that have served me well through the years. The first, Nikki's Liquors, is on the edge of North Providence (that's a separate city, btw, in case you need to know this sort of thing). Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, Nikki's is stocked with a good representation of regional beers as well as an impressive inventory of beers from around the world.
Closer to the airport in the area of Cranston is Wines & More of Rhode Island. More alcohol supermarket-style in layout, they have row and cooler after row of beers from around the region and world at competitive prices. Conveniently located next to a Whole Foods Market, it makes for a great one-two shopping stop for beverage and food.
The one place to close out the discussion of Providence with is nearly just across the street from airport. If it came to it, walking from Track 84 to the front door of the T.F. Green airport is not impossible at just under a half-mile. But, did I use the word unassuming above? I'll use it again where here it is probably even more appropriate.
Track 84 sits, appropriately, along the railroad tracks leading from the south into Providence and up eventually to Boston. If I had a picture (oh, what the heck, here's a Google street view), I'd show you how nondescript of a small building it is.
But inside, you'll find friendly service with a local flair, a simple but sufficient and satisfying sandwich menu and free popcorn, a decidedly local crowd of no-nonsense but friendly folks, and a beer list that rivals some of the best around. There's a kick-ass jukebox as well to keep the energy flowing.
But, don't press your luck, as I did, and get ensconced in happy hour revelry and run the risk of missing your flight. I took my trust of the flight tracking app on my phone as far as I should and made my flight by the slimmest of margins. Still, I wouldn't trade those last memories of beers in Providence (or Warwick, if we're being more specific) for sitting at the gate any day. Don't believe me, check out the draft list via this link.
Up the road a piece in New Hampshire is Manchester, a town to which I'd never been until late last year. I can't tell you that there's much happening in Manchester but, then again, I can't tell you that there's not much happening there either. It was just one night passing through on the way to Boston, but that was enough to check out Strange Brew Tavern and Milly's Tavern.
Strange Brew is in the heart of downtown and while the city streets appear sleepy (though, I suppose I can give them a break, it was bitterly cold after all , the hustle was bustling inside. Every Sunday, they run a special that's hard to beat. $3 draft specials and 1/2 price appetizers. With a few White Birch beers on the draft menu at $3, my mind was made up right quickly. With a very solid draft list (with great regional representation from breweries like Smuttynose, White Birch, Shipyard, Magic Hat, Otter Creek, and Trout River and a food menu consisting of solid pub favorites like fried pickles, wings, nachos, and quesadillas and heartier dishes like meatballs, fish tacos, short ribs, jambalaya, and Shepard's Pie, this is a dependable recommendation for any thirsty beer traveler passing through the region.
Over by the campus of University of New Hampshire-Manchester along the Merrimac River, Milly's Tavern is an interesting spot. It is Manchester's only brewery so that is certainly part of the initial draw. Finding it is not an obvious slam dunk, though I'm sure the second visit would be easier than the first.
Once you find your way to a parking spot and down the few steps into Milly's, you'll find yourself in room with a stage in the front and a bar in the back. There they combine live music, some decent beer made on-premise, and a satisfying food menu of standard pub grub, salads, wraps, and sandwiches.
While the Oatmeal Stout and Red Tail were solid and enjoyable beers, after putting away the BLT sandwich, it was time to head out as Sunday night head-banging (and mediocre, to boot) music was not high on my list of wants. Still, if in Manchester, not a bad place to stop, but certainly don't bump Strange Brew for it.
That's about all I can share from Manchester, unless you count the attempted visit to The Tap in Haverhill along the Monday evening drive to Boston. CLOSED MONDAYS?! Yes, that was my exclamation (question mark and incredulity included) when arriving at a darkened downtown storefront whose beers I've had numerous times at Ommegang's summertime BCTC festival. Here I was a bit excited to consume some on site and CLOSED MONDAYS. Sheesh.
Well, that door closed, so the one that opened was up the street at Krueger Flatbread, which must be said was an excellent stop for pizza (er, pardon me, flatbreads) and a Sierra Nevada before heading off to Boston.
Thursday, May 09, 2013
Weekly Beer Calendar Update: May 9 - May 15
Festival season is in full swing as the lovely spring weather grips the region. On no other day should this be more evident than on Saturday, May 11 with at least five festivals plus a few other events thrown in for good measure all listed below. Be calm, grab a beer, and carry on.
Check out the entire May 2013 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.
Events with Tap Lists via PhillyTapFinder.com
@Flanigan's Boathouse, Conshohocken, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Dogfish Head Tap Takeover (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@Johnny Brenda's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 through Sun. 5/12 - Bocks and Brats ($PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@Morgan's Pier, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Second Season Re-Opening Party ($PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - S.O.S. (Sixteen Outstanding Smuttynose) Tap Takeover (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
Special Tastings/Samplings/Freebies
@Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Belgian Beer Night with St. Killian Importers (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for a selection Belgian beers like Corsendonk Apple White, Triple, and Dubbel along with Grimbergen Dubbel & Moa St. Joseph's on draft with Grimbergen Blonde in bottles.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Saturday Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Stoudt's in Adamstown.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Wednesday Keg Tapping (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a specialty keg tapping of Dock Street Fresh Saison.))
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/13 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@Side Bar, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - 10% on the 10th ($PAYG to join Sierra Nevada for a true 10% ABV on the 10th Happy Hour with Narwhal (10.2%), Ovila Quad w/ Plums (10.2%), 2010 Bigfoot (aged at Side Bar, 10%), and a special release 10.4% brew not named yet on tap.)
@The Beer Shoppe, Ardmore, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Friday Night Tasting (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Weyerbacher in Easton.)
Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Anchor - the San Francisco Treat (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for Anchor's Steam, Liberty American Pale Ale, Porter, Humming, Bock, Zymaster Stout, Summer, and 2012 Our Special Ale. We will think up a contest or two. There will be glassware and prizes.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Mon. 5/13 - Harpoon Tap Takeover (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG as Sean from the brewery offers up several Harpoon beers on draft and giveaways.)
@Nodding Head, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - May (Be Some) Flowers (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for a floral-inspired beer event highlighting the LAVA (lavender and vanilla ale), the hibiscus infused Saison, and the return of the mighty Warthog, plus other Nodding Head favorites.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/31 - Brewery Of The Month ($PAYG for daily specials on beers from breweries in the great State of Pennsylvania.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/10 - 10 day 10th Anniversary Celebration ($PAYG as we kick off our 10th Anniversary celebration. The traditional 10th Anniversary gift is tin or aluminum so we will be offering $1 off all canned beers for 10 days.)
@The Bards, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Yards Tap Takeover (6 p.m.; $PAYG for eight Yards ales. Drink up with Rick and Doug.)
@The Cambridge, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Hill Farmstead Brewing ($PAYG to welcome Shaun Hill from Hill Farmstead Brewing to the only Hill Farmstead event happening in Philly, including Beer Week. We will be tapping "Ephraim Imperial Pale Ale" along with several other offerings from this great brewery. Stay tuned for more details.)
Special One-offs or Debuts, Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Campbell's Field, Camden, NJ--- Fri. 5/10 - Brews At The Ballpark (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $35 for a sampling of Philadelphia craft beers (Victory, Yards, Stoudt's, Philadelphia Brewing, and Tröegs) plus a two hour all-you-can-eat buffet.)
@Cannstatter Volkfest Verein, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Greater Northeast Beer Festival (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$35 for 60+ beers in attendance this year. Great local bands will be performing throughout the event featuring "The Bare Knuckle Boxers". Great food for sale provided by Cannstatter's.)
@Hawthornes, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - IPA Block Party (2 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG to choose from more than 24 IPAs, live music, and "street grub" consisting of various grilled meats and veggies.)
@Mount Hope Estate, Manheim, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Mount Hope BrewFest (11 a.m.-3 p.m.; 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $20-$45 for a variety of beers from different breweries from across the country and enjoy live music and complimentary food.)
@Stoudt's, Adamstown, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Microfest (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $35-$40 to enjoy over forty beers from America's finest breweries, great food, and music.)
@The Piazza at Schmidt's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Living Social's Craft Beer Festival (6 p.m.; $39 for unlimited 2-ounce pours of more than fifty craft beers. Live local music. Access to top-notch Philadelphia food trucks and restaurants on site (at additional cost). Backyard lawn games and activities. Complimentary pair of LivingSocial sunglasses. A BeerFest mini stein to take home.)
@Washington Crossing Historic Park, Washington Crossing, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Washington Crossing Brewfest (12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; $10-$40 for beer tasting, live music, food, and fun.)
Food and Beer events
@High Street Grill, Mt. Holly, NJ--- Wed. 5/15 - Beer Wars Dinner (7 p.m.; $50 for four courses of food each paired with a beer from both Carton and Heavy Seas breweries. This will be a blind tasting where you must judge which beer pairs better with each course.)
@Iron Abbey, Horsham, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Tröegs Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $60 for a five-course meal served with Sunshine Pils, HopBack Amber Ale, Perpetual IPA, either a Scratch beer or a firkin of something, and Mad Elf '12.)
@Revolution House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Neshaminy Creek Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $50-$55 for a four-course meal served with Tripel, Leon, County Line IPA, and Croyden Cream Ale, plus one more.)
Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Beer School (5 p.m.; $Free to get some in depth beer training right along side our staff.)
Check out the entire May 2013 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.
Events with Tap Lists via PhillyTapFinder.com
@Flanigan's Boathouse, Conshohocken, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Dogfish Head Tap Takeover (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@Johnny Brenda's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 through Sun. 5/12 - Bocks and Brats ($PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@Morgan's Pier, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Second Season Re-Opening Party ($PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
@The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - S.O.S. (Sixteen Outstanding Smuttynose) Tap Takeover (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for a special event tap list served up to you by PhillyTapFinder.com)
Special Tastings/Samplings/Freebies
@Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/9 - Belgian Beer Night with St. Killian Importers (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for a selection Belgian beers like Corsendonk Apple White, Triple, and Dubbel along with Grimbergen Dubbel & Moa St. Joseph's on draft with Grimbergen Blonde in bottles.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Saturday Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Stoudt's in Adamstown.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Wednesday Keg Tapping (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a specialty keg tapping of Dock Street Fresh Saison.))
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/13 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@Side Bar, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - 10% on the 10th ($PAYG to join Sierra Nevada for a true 10% ABV on the 10th Happy Hour with Narwhal (10.2%), Ovila Quad w/ Plums (10.2%), 2010 Bigfoot (aged at Side Bar, 10%), and a special release 10.4% brew not named yet on tap.)
@The Beer Shoppe, Ardmore, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Friday Night Tasting (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Weyerbacher in Easton.)
Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Anchor - the San Francisco Treat (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for Anchor's Steam, Liberty American Pale Ale, Porter, Humming, Bock, Zymaster Stout, Summer, and 2012 Our Special Ale. We will think up a contest or two. There will be glassware and prizes.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Mon. 5/13 - Harpoon Tap Takeover (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG as Sean from the brewery offers up several Harpoon beers on draft and giveaways.)
@Nodding Head, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - May (Be Some) Flowers (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for a floral-inspired beer event highlighting the LAVA (lavender and vanilla ale), the hibiscus infused Saison, and the return of the mighty Warthog, plus other Nodding Head favorites.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/31 - Brewery Of The Month ($PAYG for daily specials on beers from breweries in the great State of Pennsylvania.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/10 - 10 day 10th Anniversary Celebration ($PAYG as we kick off our 10th Anniversary celebration. The traditional 10th Anniversary gift is tin or aluminum so we will be offering $1 off all canned beers for 10 days.)
@The Bards, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Yards Tap Takeover (6 p.m.; $PAYG for eight Yards ales. Drink up with Rick and Doug.)
@The Cambridge, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Hill Farmstead Brewing ($PAYG to welcome Shaun Hill from Hill Farmstead Brewing to the only Hill Farmstead event happening in Philly, including Beer Week. We will be tapping "Ephraim Imperial Pale Ale" along with several other offerings from this great brewery. Stay tuned for more details.)
Special One-offs or Debuts, Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Campbell's Field, Camden, NJ--- Fri. 5/10 - Brews At The Ballpark (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $35 for a sampling of Philadelphia craft beers (Victory, Yards, Stoudt's, Philadelphia Brewing, and Tröegs) plus a two hour all-you-can-eat buffet.)
@Cannstatter Volkfest Verein, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Greater Northeast Beer Festival (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $10-$35 for 60+ beers in attendance this year. Great local bands will be performing throughout the event featuring "The Bare Knuckle Boxers". Great food for sale provided by Cannstatter's.)
@Hawthornes, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - IPA Block Party (2 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG to choose from more than 24 IPAs, live music, and "street grub" consisting of various grilled meats and veggies.)
@Mount Hope Estate, Manheim, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Mount Hope BrewFest (11 a.m.-3 p.m.; 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $20-$45 for a variety of beers from different breweries from across the country and enjoy live music and complimentary food.)
@Stoudt's, Adamstown, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Microfest (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $35-$40 to enjoy over forty beers from America's finest breweries, great food, and music.)
@The Piazza at Schmidt's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/10 - Living Social's Craft Beer Festival (6 p.m.; $39 for unlimited 2-ounce pours of more than fifty craft beers. Live local music. Access to top-notch Philadelphia food trucks and restaurants on site (at additional cost). Backyard lawn games and activities. Complimentary pair of LivingSocial sunglasses. A BeerFest mini stein to take home.)
@Washington Crossing Historic Park, Washington Crossing, Pa.--- Sat. 5/11 - Washington Crossing Brewfest (12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; $10-$40 for beer tasting, live music, food, and fun.)
Food and Beer events
@High Street Grill, Mt. Holly, NJ--- Wed. 5/15 - Beer Wars Dinner (7 p.m.; $50 for four courses of food each paired with a beer from both Carton and Heavy Seas breweries. This will be a blind tasting where you must judge which beer pairs better with each course.)
@Iron Abbey, Horsham, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Tröegs Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $60 for a five-course meal served with Sunshine Pils, HopBack Amber Ale, Perpetual IPA, either a Scratch beer or a firkin of something, and Mad Elf '12.)
@Revolution House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Neshaminy Creek Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $50-$55 for a four-course meal served with Tripel, Leon, County Line IPA, and Croyden Cream Ale, plus one more.)
Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/15 - Beer School (5 p.m.; $Free to get some in depth beer training right along side our staff.)
Saturday, May 04, 2013
Weekly Second-Hand Brews News Update: 5/4/13
I long ago lost the ability to keep up with even half the beer news out there in the wild and wacky world of craft beer. There was a time I attempted daily (or even more frequent) updates with interesting tidbits from around the brewniverse along with small contributions of my own thoughts.
That has yielded to my weekly updates that you'll find here every Saturday morning with some of what I consider to be some of the more interesting news out there that you might like to add to your weekend reading list (or Monday morning at work, depending upon your preference).
Enjoy.
PHILADELPHIA
~ Gots to find me some Philly beer news around here. Anyone?
~ How about that Philly Beer Week kicks off in less than a month? The calendar is a-loading up.
EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Nice.
~ Love reading about this on the other side of the state.
~ Suzanne Woods, aka The Beer Lass, has some new brewery news.
~ For those of you that like reading up on the business side of beer distribution.
THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ A request for tax breaks.
~ A voice of reason from north of the border.
~ "Breweries, he said, come up against their own popularity."
~ A divide amongst the proposed legislation.
~ More talk of legislation
~ A good piece about the continued hand-wringing and the potential damage it leaves in the wake.
That has yielded to my weekly updates that you'll find here every Saturday morning with some of what I consider to be some of the more interesting news out there that you might like to add to your weekend reading list (or Monday morning at work, depending upon your preference).
Enjoy.
PHILADELPHIA
~ Gots to find me some Philly beer news around here. Anyone?
~ How about that Philly Beer Week kicks off in less than a month? The calendar is a-loading up.
EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Nice.
~ Love reading about this on the other side of the state.
~ Suzanne Woods, aka The Beer Lass, has some new brewery news.
~ For those of you that like reading up on the business side of beer distribution.
THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ A request for tax breaks.
~ A voice of reason from north of the border.
~ "Breweries, he said, come up against their own popularity."
~ A divide amongst the proposed legislation.
~ More talk of legislation
~ A good piece about the continued hand-wringing and the potential damage it leaves in the wake.
Friday, May 03, 2013
Writing this ship, Part VIII (Pittsburgh, Pa.)
All you need to do is Google "brewlounge.com pittsburgh" to find that I've written quite a bit over the years about our sister city on the other side of the state from Philadelphia. I could link you over to any number of articles I wrote about my beer-y travels around the City.
I've been there for work a number of times. Flyers/Penguins, Eagles/Steelers, Phillies/Pirates weekend trips. And as you read this, I'm prepping for my third running of the Pittsburgh Marathon. Suffice to say, I've had a chance to take the pulse of the city, its beer, and the bar scene.
And, although, I'm not a typical proponent of rooting for one's enemy (e.g. would never, ever root for the Giants in the Super Bowl, the Mets in the World Series, etc.), I actually did find myself not hating the Penguins for winning the Stanley Cup the other year. But maybe I won't let our Pittsburgh friend, Brian, hear that. Though, my opinion of Sidney Crosby remains still just as negative.
But, about the beer scene, I've had plenty to say. If you do that Google search I mentioned above, you'll find a bunch of references. My records show, though it seems light, that I've tagged 19 articles with the word Pittsburgh. Here's one that, back in 2009, did a pretty good job of summarizing the beer scene around the 'burgh at the time.
And now? I was last there back in November on a simple one-nighter along the way to Chicago. So it meant time for just a well-executed plan of hitting up Fat Head's, Piper's Pub, and Smokin' Joe's.
They were all predictably excellent stops based upon my past experience and short amount of available time on this one particular evening. A few things I was struck by that are worth sharing with you.
It seems that the number of Fat Head's-brewed beers on the tap list (from its production facility outside Cleveland, OH if you didn't know) increases every time I visit the pub on Carson Street. This time, it as first time run-ins with both the Sunshine Daydream and Bumble Berry that kept me impressed as always with the brewery's solid brewing record.
Across the street at Piper's, they still make a strong case in my book as one of the friendliest pubs in town. Comfortable bar atmosphere, European soccer/football on the television, and interesting and easy conversation with both the staff and fellow customers. A must stop for pub and beer lovers...and Scotch Egg lovers. Also, a dependable source of decent cask-conditioned beer.
Then, a few more doors down Carson Street, Smokin' Joe's still a great place for beer, darts, and pool.
But, the real surprise during this trip came to me after I figured my run-ins with food and/or beer to report back to you were complete. The Pittsburgh airport, what would you expect? Bar Symon? As in the award-winning chef and culinary personality Michael Symon.
How's that for starters? So you know you can expect decent food. But, how about a lineup of beer that included Rogue Dead Guy, Tröegs Dreamweaver Wheat, Founders Breakfast Stout, East End Fat Gary, Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold, Stone Arrogant Bastard, and Bell's Two Hearted Ale?
Since I'd just days earlier conquered the Harrisburg Marathon, I felt justly deserving of the Lola Burger (with fried egg, pickled red onions, thick bacon, cheddar cheese, on a challah bun), Rosemary & Parmesan Lola Fries, a superb Fat Gary Brown Ale, and a Breakfast Stout to go. Yes, to go. Because that's the way many airports roll; you just have to ask.
(That reminds me. Have I ever shared with you what is likely the greatest compilation of airport beer information on the Web? I contribute to it as often as I can in order to help the cause.)
Decadent, it surely was. And the service was top notch, speeding the beers and the food even on our barely 30 minute window. If you're traveling through the Pittsburgh airport, you probably can't do much better for both food and beer.
Categories:
Airport Beer,
Bar Symon,
Fat Head's,
Pennsylvania,
Piper's Pub,
Pittsburgh
Links to this post
Thursday, May 02, 2013
Weekly Beer Calendar Update: May 2 - May 8
Your friendly brewers and bar owners have wasted no time getting the month of May off to a strong start with a beer calendar full of over 40 events in the next seven days. And, it's not even Philly Beer Week, or American Craft Beer Week for that matter, yet.
Check out the entire May 2013 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.
Tastings/Samplings/Freebies
@Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Free Samples (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Deschutes in Oregon.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Kona in Hawaii.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Wednesday Keg Tapping (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a specialty keg tapping of Left Hand Ambidextrous.)
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/6 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Left Hand in Colorado.)
@Whole Foods, Plymouth Meeting, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - First Thursday Beer Tasting (6 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples throughout the store.)
@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Thursday Beer Sampling (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Thursday Beer Sampling (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Founders' year-round brews and seasonals.)
Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Harpoon Brewing Night (4 p.m.; $PAYG for a lineup of at least fifteen beers from Harpoon Brewery in Boston.)
@Bistro on Bridge, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Neshaminy Creek Tap Takeover (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Trauger Pilsner, Tribute Tripel, Neshaminator, Leon Russian Imperial Stout, Croydon Cream Ale, County Line IPA, and Dry-hopped cask-conditioned County Line IPA.)
@Capone's, Norristown, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Keep the Pint and Raffle (6:30 p.m.; $PAYG for night of Summit beers plus purchase any "craft draft" and get a raffle ticket (only one ticket per patron) to win the right to purchase a very limited bottle of Founders Doom.)
@Fingers Wings and Other Things, Conshohocken, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Nautical Puppies ($PAYG for some brewhouse rarities from Flying Dog (Pumpernickel IPA, Big Black Wit, Gonzo Imperial Porter, and Raging Bitch) along with other favorites and we'll have some Flying Fish Exit Series and more (Exit 4, Exit 16, and Farmhouse Summer Ale). As always there will be some tasty treats from the FWOT kitchen to complement the beers.)
@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Dogfish Head Shittel Load of Sixtels (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for Dogfish Head's 2012 Worldwide Stout, Namaste, Robert Johnson Hellhound on My Ale, My Antonia, Bitches Brew, Immort Ale, and more.)
@Hop Angel Brauhaus, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco De Mayo (3 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for many Mexican beers on tap that remain very true to the original German styles (surprisingly so). Mexican food specials. Live music with the Rhythm Rockers.)
@Johnny & Hons Smokehouse, Robesonia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Tröegs Tap Takeover (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for a variety of Tröegs beers.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/31 - Brewery Of The Month ($PAYG for daily specials on beers from breweries in the great State of Pennsylvania.)
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Ithaca Brewing (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG for Flower Power, Apricot Wheat, Cascazilla, Nut Brown, White Gold, 15th Anniversary Ale, and Groundbreak Saison. We will also have a rare firkin of Flower Power specially dry-hopped with Citra variety hops.)
@Rams Head Bar and Grill, West Chester, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Yards Brewing Night (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Love Stout, Brawler, Philly Pale Ale, and a Firkin of Yards IPA. We will have glassware and a representative of the brewery will be here that night.)
@Sly Fox, both Phoenixville & Pottstown, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Incubus Friday (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for their incredible Belgian-style Tripel that pours until the keg kicks.)
@Strangelove's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Hitachino Brewing Night (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG to meet Toshiyuki Kiuchi, the owner of Hitachino Brewing Co, and drink White, Ancient Nipponia, Real Ginger Brew, Red Rice Ale, Commemorative Ale 2013, Commemorative Ale 2011, Future Miikan.)
@Union Jack's on the Manatawny, Boyertown, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco de Smutty (1 p.m.; $PAYG for Smuttynose's Big A Double IPA, "Finest Kind" IPA, Gravitation Quad, Noonan Black IPA, Star Island Single, Bloom, Really Old Brown Dog, Baltic Porter, Robust Porter, Shoals Pale Ale, and Summer Weizen. Local favorite Frecons Early Man Cider will be on tap as well. Live music from Frog Holler.)
@Washington House, Sellersville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Beer Tasting (5 p.m.; $PAYG to come out and support one of our local PA breweries.)
Special One-offs or Debuts, Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Alla Spina, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 5/7 - Meet the Brewer with Valter Loverier of Loverbeer (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $PAYG for an evening highlighting the incredible Loverbeer beers. Produced in tiny quantities and rarely available on draft, don't miss this chance to taste some of Italy's most exciting beers side by side: "Madamin" a Flemish red style fermented with wine yeasts and "D'Uvabeer" brewed with Freisa grape must.)
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 5/7 - A Barrel-aged Night featuring Death's Door Spirits (4 p.m.; $PAYG for our Oak Barrel-aged Death's Door Whisky. We've been aging their whisky in a Death's Door Oak Barrel for the past four months, and we're now ready to pour it for your pleasure. In celebration, we're also tapping several barrel-aged beers including Flying Dog Bourbon Gonzo, John Henry 3 Lick Spiker Ale, Laughing Dog The Dogfather, New Holland Dragon's Milk, and Weyerbacher Insanity. Look for an amazing shot and beer special for any of you gluttons for punishment.)
@Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Maifest Street Festival-VIP Access (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $100 for VIP tickets at Brauhaus Schmitz which get you a VIP Pass in and Out of the VIP Brauer Bund, with special release imports and drafts. Full wait staff and bar staff, with five private bathrooms. Complimentary appetizers courtesy of Chef Jeremy Nolen. Eight tickets good for beer from our VIP list or food stands. Commemorative Beer Stein and other Brauhaus Schwag.)
@Eight blocks of South Street (and in front of Brauhaus Schmitz), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Maifest Street Festival (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free Admission to the street festival featuring food, music, shopping, art, and a kids zone. Plus, an option to buy a $100 VIP ticket to Brauhaus Schmitz.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/10 - 10 day 10th Anniversary Celebration ($PAYG as we kick off our 10th Anniversary celebration. The traditional 10th Anniversary gift is tin or aluminum so we will be offering $1 off all canned beers for 10 days.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Ten day 10th Anniversary Celebration (12 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG for a 10th Anniversary Party with $1 off all drafts & canned beers along with a complimentary brunch buffet. We have some special, limited, and rare beers saved. Look for a 2011 Lost Abbey Deliverance along with a special pin from Yards Brewing. Our homebrew club, YTM Homebrew, will be on hand for a big brew day, to celebrate National Home Brew Day. Get to see how beer is made at home and meet some of our most enthusiastic craft beer advocates.)
@Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Bock Fest and Goat Races (11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for a family-friendly festival with authentic German food and oompah music with more Bock beers flowing than ever before.)
Food and Beer events
@Craft Beer Outlet, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Chocolate and Beer Pairing (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $20 to try six different beers paired with six different chocolates. We are bringing in a chocolate expert to educate us, and we are handling the beer end. Fruit, cheeses, and crackers will also be served.)
@Dock Street, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco de Mayo Brunch with Guest Chef (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG as Chef Robert Legget of Guerrilla Ultima Truck prepares a Latin-inspired brunch to be served with a special beer cocktail menu featuring our Brewdriver, Bloody Maria, and Pom-Pom made with pomegranate wheat beer.)
@John Henry's Pub, Ardmore, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Tröegs Beer Dinner (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $TBA for a seven-course meal paired with beers from Tröegs in Hershey.)
@Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - PA Flavor (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$75 for an event that brings together up to 40 Pennsylvania breweries along with 20 "PA Preferred" food producers and 20 "PA Preferred" restaurants.)
@The Churchville Inn, Churchville, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Ballast Point Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $45 for a five-course meal served with Sculpin, Indra Kunindra, Victory at Sea, Wahoo Wheat, and Habanero Sculpin.)
@Zama, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Hitachino Omakase Beer Dinner (5 p.m.; $80 for a seven-course meal served with Nippona Pilsner, Red Rice Ale, White Ale, Japanese Classic Ale, IPA, Ginger Ale, and Celebration Ale.)
Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Fegley's Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Charity Cask Night (5 p.m.; $PAYG for cask-conditioned beer where 100% of cask sales benefit PBS39.)
@Philly Homebrew Outlet, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Spring Craft Beer and Sausage Fest (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $20-$25 as Yards Brewing Co. and the Philadelphia Homebrew Club will be providing unlimited, generous tastings of the freshest handcrafted ales you can find. And in honor of National Homebrew Day, homebrewers will be demonstrating how to brew a Lambic and Imperial India Pale Ale. This family friendly party will be bursting with food, games, activities, and live music.)
@Resurrection Ale House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Beer School (4 p.m.; $Free to get some in depth beer schooling along with our staff.)
Iron Hill is at it again, so let's give 'em their own category
@Iron Hill, Newark, Del.--- Thu. 5/2 - Belgian White Beer Release (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG to join Head Brewer, Justin Sproul, for the release of his 2013 batch of Belgian White, brewed with orange and coriander.)
@Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Bitter Rivalry (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG as ten IPAs from Iron Hill and five guest breweries go head-to-head. Feature menu available for the evening.)
@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival (11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG as we celebrate the Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival. We will have two special Beers on tap and a BBQ Pork and Chicken Salad Slider for you to enjoy.)
@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/6 - Gluten Free Feature Week (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for specials that are gluten-free in partnership with celiac awareness month.)
@Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - First Friday Firkin (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Full Nelson IPA cask-conditioned beer release.)
@Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Mahalo, Apollo! Beer Release (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for Mahalo, Apollo!, Flyin’ Hawaiian, and cask-conditioned Chocolate Coconut Porter on tap. Grab two Hawaiian Pizzas and a Growler of Mahalo, Apollo! to go for $25.)
@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Sat. 5/4 - Kentucky Derby (4 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of Bourbon Tripel and prizes awarded for the most fabulous hat.)
Check out the entire May 2013 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.
Tastings/Samplings/Freebies
@Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Free Samples (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Deschutes in Oregon.)
@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beers from Kona in Hawaii.)
@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Wednesday Keg Tapping (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a specialty keg tapping of Left Hand Ambidextrous.)
@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/6 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Left Hand in Colorado.)
@Whole Foods, Plymouth Meeting, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - First Thursday Beer Tasting (6 p.m.-7 p.m.; $Free tasting samples throughout the store.)
@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Thursday Beer Sampling (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of beer from Oskar Blues in Colorado.)
@The Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Thursday Beer Sampling (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Founders' year-round brews and seasonals.)
Brewery Promos and "Takeovers"
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Harpoon Brewing Night (4 p.m.; $PAYG for a lineup of at least fifteen beers from Harpoon Brewery in Boston.)
@Bistro on Bridge, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Neshaminy Creek Tap Takeover (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Trauger Pilsner, Tribute Tripel, Neshaminator, Leon Russian Imperial Stout, Croydon Cream Ale, County Line IPA, and Dry-hopped cask-conditioned County Line IPA.)
@Capone's, Norristown, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Keep the Pint and Raffle (6:30 p.m.; $PAYG for night of Summit beers plus purchase any "craft draft" and get a raffle ticket (only one ticket per patron) to win the right to purchase a very limited bottle of Founders Doom.)
@Fingers Wings and Other Things, Conshohocken, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Nautical Puppies ($PAYG for some brewhouse rarities from Flying Dog (Pumpernickel IPA, Big Black Wit, Gonzo Imperial Porter, and Raging Bitch) along with other favorites and we'll have some Flying Fish Exit Series and more (Exit 4, Exit 16, and Farmhouse Summer Ale). As always there will be some tasty treats from the FWOT kitchen to complement the beers.)
@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Dogfish Head Shittel Load of Sixtels (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for Dogfish Head's 2012 Worldwide Stout, Namaste, Robert Johnson Hellhound on My Ale, My Antonia, Bitches Brew, Immort Ale, and more.)
@Hop Angel Brauhaus, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco De Mayo (3 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for many Mexican beers on tap that remain very true to the original German styles (surprisingly so). Mexican food specials. Live music with the Rhythm Rockers.)
@Johnny & Hons Smokehouse, Robesonia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Tröegs Tap Takeover (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for a variety of Tröegs beers.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/31 - Brewery Of The Month ($PAYG for daily specials on beers from breweries in the great State of Pennsylvania.)
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Ithaca Brewing (5 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG for Flower Power, Apricot Wheat, Cascazilla, Nut Brown, White Gold, 15th Anniversary Ale, and Groundbreak Saison. We will also have a rare firkin of Flower Power specially dry-hopped with Citra variety hops.)
@Rams Head Bar and Grill, West Chester, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Yards Brewing Night (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Love Stout, Brawler, Philly Pale Ale, and a Firkin of Yards IPA. We will have glassware and a representative of the brewery will be here that night.)
@Sly Fox, both Phoenixville & Pottstown, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Incubus Friday (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for their incredible Belgian-style Tripel that pours until the keg kicks.)
@Strangelove's, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Hitachino Brewing Night (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG to meet Toshiyuki Kiuchi, the owner of Hitachino Brewing Co, and drink White, Ancient Nipponia, Real Ginger Brew, Red Rice Ale, Commemorative Ale 2013, Commemorative Ale 2011, Future Miikan.)
@Union Jack's on the Manatawny, Boyertown, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco de Smutty (1 p.m.; $PAYG for Smuttynose's Big A Double IPA, "Finest Kind" IPA, Gravitation Quad, Noonan Black IPA, Star Island Single, Bloom, Really Old Brown Dog, Baltic Porter, Robust Porter, Shoals Pale Ale, and Summer Weizen. Local favorite Frecons Early Man Cider will be on tap as well. Live music from Frog Holler.)
@Washington House, Sellersville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Beer Tasting (5 p.m.; $PAYG to come out and support one of our local PA breweries.)
Special One-offs or Debuts, Anniversaries/Parties, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Alla Spina, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 5/7 - Meet the Brewer with Valter Loverier of Loverbeer (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $PAYG for an evening highlighting the incredible Loverbeer beers. Produced in tiny quantities and rarely available on draft, don't miss this chance to taste some of Italy's most exciting beers side by side: "Madamin" a Flemish red style fermented with wine yeasts and "D'Uvabeer" brewed with Freisa grape must.)
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 5/7 - A Barrel-aged Night featuring Death's Door Spirits (4 p.m.; $PAYG for our Oak Barrel-aged Death's Door Whisky. We've been aging their whisky in a Death's Door Oak Barrel for the past four months, and we're now ready to pour it for your pleasure. In celebration, we're also tapping several barrel-aged beers including Flying Dog Bourbon Gonzo, John Henry 3 Lick Spiker Ale, Laughing Dog The Dogfather, New Holland Dragon's Milk, and Weyerbacher Insanity. Look for an amazing shot and beer special for any of you gluttons for punishment.)
@Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Maifest Street Festival-VIP Access (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $100 for VIP tickets at Brauhaus Schmitz which get you a VIP Pass in and Out of the VIP Brauer Bund, with special release imports and drafts. Full wait staff and bar staff, with five private bathrooms. Complimentary appetizers courtesy of Chef Jeremy Nolen. Eight tickets good for beer from our VIP list or food stands. Commemorative Beer Stein and other Brauhaus Schwag.)
@Eight blocks of South Street (and in front of Brauhaus Schmitz), Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Maifest Street Festival (12 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free Admission to the street festival featuring food, music, shopping, art, and a kids zone. Plus, an option to buy a $100 VIP ticket to Brauhaus Schmitz.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/1 through Fri. 5/10 - 10 day 10th Anniversary Celebration ($PAYG as we kick off our 10th Anniversary celebration. The traditional 10th Anniversary gift is tin or aluminum so we will be offering $1 off all canned beers for 10 days.)
@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Ten day 10th Anniversary Celebration (12 p.m.-3 p.m.; $PAYG for a 10th Anniversary Party with $1 off all drafts & canned beers along with a complimentary brunch buffet. We have some special, limited, and rare beers saved. Look for a 2011 Lost Abbey Deliverance along with a special pin from Yards Brewing. Our homebrew club, YTM Homebrew, will be on hand for a big brew day, to celebrate National Home Brew Day. Get to see how beer is made at home and meet some of our most enthusiastic craft beer advocates.)
@Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Bock Fest and Goat Races (11 a.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG for a family-friendly festival with authentic German food and oompah music with more Bock beers flowing than ever before.)
Food and Beer events
@Craft Beer Outlet, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Chocolate and Beer Pairing (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $20 to try six different beers paired with six different chocolates. We are bringing in a chocolate expert to educate us, and we are handling the beer end. Fruit, cheeses, and crackers will also be served.)
@Dock Street, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Cinco de Mayo Brunch with Guest Chef (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG as Chef Robert Legget of Guerrilla Ultima Truck prepares a Latin-inspired brunch to be served with a special beer cocktail menu featuring our Brewdriver, Bloody Maria, and Pom-Pom made with pomegranate wheat beer.)
@John Henry's Pub, Ardmore, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Tröegs Beer Dinner (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $TBA for a seven-course meal paired with beers from Tröegs in Hershey.)
@Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - PA Flavor (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $20-$75 for an event that brings together up to 40 Pennsylvania breweries along with 20 "PA Preferred" food producers and 20 "PA Preferred" restaurants.)
@The Churchville Inn, Churchville, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Ballast Point Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $45 for a five-course meal served with Sculpin, Indra Kunindra, Victory at Sea, Wahoo Wheat, and Habanero Sculpin.)
@Zama, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Hitachino Omakase Beer Dinner (5 p.m.; $80 for a seven-course meal served with Nippona Pilsner, Red Rice Ale, White Ale, Japanese Classic Ale, IPA, Ginger Ale, and Celebration Ale.)
Homebrewing, Charity, Schooling, and Miscellanies
@Fegley's Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa.--- Thu. 5/2 - Charity Cask Night (5 p.m.; $PAYG for cask-conditioned beer where 100% of cask sales benefit PBS39.)
@Philly Homebrew Outlet, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Spring Craft Beer and Sausage Fest (12 p.m.-6 p.m.; $20-$25 as Yards Brewing Co. and the Philadelphia Homebrew Club will be providing unlimited, generous tastings of the freshest handcrafted ales you can find. And in honor of National Homebrew Day, homebrewers will be demonstrating how to brew a Lambic and Imperial India Pale Ale. This family friendly party will be bursting with food, games, activities, and live music.)
@Resurrection Ale House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 5/8 - Beer School (4 p.m.; $Free to get some in depth beer schooling along with our staff.)
Iron Hill is at it again, so let's give 'em their own category
@Iron Hill, Newark, Del.--- Thu. 5/2 - Belgian White Beer Release (4 p.m.-7 p.m.; $PAYG to join Head Brewer, Justin Sproul, for the release of his 2013 batch of Belgian White, brewed with orange and coriander.)
@Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa.--- Sat. 5/4 - Bitter Rivalry (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG as ten IPAs from Iron Hill and five guest breweries go head-to-head. Feature menu available for the evening.)
@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 5/5 - Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival (11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG as we celebrate the Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival. We will have two special Beers on tap and a BBQ Pork and Chicken Salad Slider for you to enjoy.)
@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 5/6 - Gluten Free Feature Week (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for specials that are gluten-free in partnership with celiac awareness month.)
@Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - First Friday Firkin (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Full Nelson IPA cask-conditioned beer release.)
@Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 5/3 - Mahalo, Apollo! Beer Release (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for Mahalo, Apollo!, Flyin’ Hawaiian, and cask-conditioned Chocolate Coconut Porter on tap. Grab two Hawaiian Pizzas and a Growler of Mahalo, Apollo! to go for $25.)
@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Sat. 5/4 - Kentucky Derby (4 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of Bourbon Tripel and prizes awarded for the most fabulous hat.)
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