Saturday, April 28, 2018

Beer Event Calendar: Philadelphia & beyond: What To Do in May 2018

Each year, May sees a plethora of festivals pop onto the beer calendar. No exception this year. A bit light at this point, but I needed to get this done before heading off to the Craft Brewers Conference in Nashville. Follow along with me on the socials (Facebook, Twitter, that stuff). There'll be some material here too, if nothing else, winners of the World Beer Cup.

After this, Philly Beer Week is due to land again in the city beginning on June 1. What do the planners have in store for us this year? Time will tell.

As always, 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
Thu. 5/3; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. — Dock Street Takeover at The Porch at The Porch at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/4; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Two Roads Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/4; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — May The 4th Be With You at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/5; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. — Maifest at Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG or $100 VIP]
Sat. 5/5; 12 p.m. — Derby Day at Khyber Pass Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/5; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Kentucky Derby & Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 5/6; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. — 5 Year Anniversary Beach Party at Cedar Point Bar & Kitchen in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/7; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — IPA, Champagne, & Rosé Block Party at Hawthornes in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Wed. 5/16; 5 p.m. — Brewery Happy Hour Series at Strangelove's in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Wed. 5/16; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — You Buy The Glass at The Abbaye in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/17; 7 p.m. — Fishtown Beer Runners & Avery Brewing at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Wheat Beer Fest at South Philadelphia Tap Room in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/21; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Wed. 5/23; 5 p.m. — Beer School at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 5/25; 2 p.m.-9 p.m. — Towel Day at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/28; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 5/31; 6 p.m. — Founders Tap Takeover at Kraftwork in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]

after May in Philadelphia
Fri. 6/1 through Sun. 6/10; Various times — Philly Beer Week at Many quality breweries and bars in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Varies]


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 5/3; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — 2SP Charity Night at 2SP Brewing Company in Aston, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Imperial Stout Beer Release at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 5 p.m. — Mahalo Apollo! Beer Garden Opening Party at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Sterling Pig Happy Hour at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/5; All day — Cinco de Mayo at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/10; 5 p.m. — Rescue 9 Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Allagash Brewing Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 5/12; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Devils Backbone Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 5/17; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Sly Fox Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 5/26; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Neshaminy Creek Tasting at The Beer Shoppe in Ardmore, Pa. [$Free]

after May in Philadelphia's close suburbs
Sat. 6/9; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Six Year Anniversary Party at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon, Pa. [$PAYG]


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 4/27 through Sun. 5/6; Various times — Suburban Beer Week at 13 local restaurants and breweries in around far suburbia of Philadelphia [$Varies]
Thu. 5/3; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Charity Cask Night at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Foreign Objects Tap Takeover at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Hopocalypse Kickoff at Blueprint Brewing Company in Harleysville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 4:30 p.m. — Vintage & Vinyl — Very Berry Month of May at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/3; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tröegs Tap Attack at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/4;  12 p.m.-8 p.m. — May the 4th x First Firkin Friday at Cape May Brewing Company in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/4; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Free Friday Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 5/4; 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. — May The 4th Be With You at Oakbrook Brewing Company in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/4; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Victory Brewing at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/5; 12 p.m. — Cinco de Mayo at Berlin Brewing Company in Berlin, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/5; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Cinco de Neshaminy at Union Jack's On The Manatawny in Boyertown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 5/6; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Bock Fest & Goat Race at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/7; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Beers with Bryan at Chesapeake & Maine in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$15]
Wed. 5/9; 7 p.m.-8 p.m. — May Beer Class: Understanding Hops at The Foodery-Phoenixville in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/11; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Friday Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 5/12; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — BBQ & Beer at Herman's Coffee in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Sip Into Spring Festival at Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m. — 3rd Anniversary Part at Stable 12 Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/14; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — HiJinx / U&F collabo — American Craft Beer Week at Union and Finch in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 5/14 through Sat. 5/19; All day — American Craft Beer Week Celebration at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/17; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Fish Taco Pairing With Evil Twin at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 5/17 through Sat. 5/19; 5 p.m. — Goin' Fishin' — Dogfish Head & Seafood Weekend at Two Stones Pub in Jennersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 5/18; 4 p.m. — Firefly Ale Release at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Anniversary Fest at Appalachian Brewing Company in Harrisburg, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; All day — America the Brettiful Limited Bottle Release at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; All day — 5th Anniversary Celebration at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 2 p.m. — Brews for Bassets at Levante Brewing Company in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Taps, Tunes, & Trucks at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 11 a.m. — Anniversary Party at Station Taproom & Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 5/23; 5:45 p.m.-8:45 p.m. — 5K Race to Benefit the ARL at Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa. [$15]


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Wed. 5/2; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — 2018 Taste of the Invitational at Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pa. [$20-$90]
Sat. 5/5; 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Washington Crossing Brewfest at Washington Crossing Park in New Hope, Pa. [$10-$45]
Sat. 5/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$150-$200]
Sun. 5/13; 12 p.m.-9 p.m. — Punk In Drublic at Festival Pier at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia, Pa. [$49.50-$99.50]
Sat. 5/19; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — All-Star Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Festival at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pa. [$19.95-$16.95]
Thu. 5/24; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beef, Bourbon, & Beer at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$81-$109]

after May in Philadelphia
Fri. 6/1; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Craft Beer and Cheese Pairing at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$51-$89]


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 5/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers’ Festival at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. [$5-$45]
Mon. 5/28; 3 p.m.-8 p.m. — Memorial Day BBQ & Brews at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$25]


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 5/4; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — May Beer Experience — Intergalactic Space Odyssey at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$48]
Sat. 5/12; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — "Most Craftacular" Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. [$29.95]
Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Phoenixville Beer & Wine Festival at Kimberton Fairgrounds in Phoenixville, Pa. [$10-$65]
Sat. 5/12; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Brewfest at Mount Hope at Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Mount Hope, Pa. [$50-$55]
Sat. 5/19; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Truffle and Brew Pairing Murder Mystery at 16 Mile Brewing Company in Georgetown, Del. [$40]
Sat. 5/19; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Handcrafted at Perkins Center for the Arts in Collingswood, NJ [$60-$80]
Fri. 5/25; 6:30 p.m.-10 p.m. — Blues 'n' Brews at Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester, Pa. [$45-$50]

after May in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 6/2; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Yardley Beer Festival at Delaware Avenue in Yardley, Pa. [$40-$50]
Sat. 6/9; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. & 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Wildwood Beer Fest at Fox Park in Wildwood, NJ [$5-$35]
Sat. 6/9; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Roy-Pitz Inaugural Brewers Bash Disc Golf Tournament at Sedgley Woods in Philadelphia, Pa. [$50 entry fee]




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com



Thursday, April 26, 2018

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: April 26 - April 30

And just like that, we're staying down the end of the first third of 2018. Been some good drinkin' along the way. Here are some ideas how you can drink out the month of April if you're in the Philly area. If you're heading to Nashville for the Craft Brewers Conference/World Beer Cup, look me up and let's have a beer.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Boyertown, Pa.
Sat. 5/5; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Cinco de Neshaminy at Union Jack's On The Manatawny [Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with some great beers from our friends at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co., a special southwestern inspired menu, and some awesome tunes provided by the incomparable Vuja De.  $PAYG]

Doylestown, Pa.
Thu. 4/26; All day — Hop Fest 2018 at M.O.M.'s (Maxwell's On Main) [Enjoy some extraordinary hop forward beers.  $PAYG]

Ewing Township, NJ
Sun. 4/29; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Crafts & Drafts at River Horse Brewing Company [Marketspace Vendor Events will be returning for another Crafts and Drafts event, with 40+ unique craft artisans and an awesome way to shake off those winter blues.  $PAYG]

Harrisburg, Pa.
Fri. 4/20 through Sun. 4/29; Varies — Harrisburg Beer Week at The Best Bars and Breweries around [A 10-day, multi-venue series showcasing breweries, restaurants, pubs and more through craft beer-centric events, demonstrations and education throughout the greater Harrisburg area.  $Varies]
Thu. 4/26; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — April Beer Dinner at The Millworks [Brewery tour with first beer and hors-d’oeuvres, four unique off-menu dishes paired with Millworks beers in a private dining atmosphere, and an explanation of each pairing from our Executive Chef and Master Brewer.  $60]

Media, Pa.
Thu. 5/3; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Sterling Pig Happy Hour at Pinocchio's [A night of beers from just down the street at Sterling Pig.  $PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers’ Festival at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Enjoy food, games, music, and craft beer from over 20 local breweries. The festival continues to grow into the premier showcase of handcrafted products from the region's craft breweries. Proceeds will benefit the Media Youth Center.  $5-$45]

Middletown, Pa.
Fri. 4/27; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Little Little Beer Fest at Tattered Flag Brewing Company [10+ breweries will take part in this beer fest celebrating little breweries and little beers.  $35]

North Wales, Pa.
Fri. 4/27; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Founders Tap Takeover at The Pour House [Featuring four Founders favorites — CBS, KBS, Breakfast Stout, and Sumatra Mountain Brown Ale.  $PAYG]

Palmyra, Pa.
Thu. 4/26; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — St. Boniface Firkin Night at Funck's [Beers from St. Boniface.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/27; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Funk Brewing Funk Night at Funck's [Beers from Funk Brewing.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 4/26; 12 p.m. — Captain Lawrence April Sours at Barcade [We’ll have a variety of vintage sours as well as some of their favorite classics.  $PAYG]
Thu. 4/26; 2 p.m.-9 p.m. — Avengers Infinity War Movie Release at The Institute [This will be epic we will be showing all the Marvel movies on both floors and pairing beers with each of the 6 infinity gems.  $PAYG]
Thu. 4/26; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Love City Brewing Tap Takeover at Royal Tavern [Pair some of Love City's fantastic beers with Royal's menu that will satisfy both the vegan and carnivore in your crew. Meet head brewer, Kevin Walter, and the Love City team as they toast the beautiful Spring weather with an Eraserhood NE IPA.  $PAYG]
Thu. 4/26; 7 p.m. — What The Dill at Devil's Den [We brewed a Pickle Back Beer with Evolution Craft Brewing and Dad’s Hat. What the Dill is a tart wheat beer brewed with Dill steeped Water and Pickling Spices. Then aged in Dad’s Hat Rye Barrels.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/27; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — New Belgium Tasting at Beer Love [If Fat Tire is all you know, come try the other beers offered by New Belgium Brewing.  $Free]
Fri. 4/27; 5 p.m.-11 p.m. — Dock Street Cannery + Tasting Lounge 1st Birthday at Dock Street Brewery [We'll have a DJ, special cocktails, and beer-glazed donuts from our neighbors at Dotties, so let the good times, good vibes, and great drinks roll.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/27; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beer America at Philly Beer School [We have written a road map to the great breweries all around the country, and this is our way of sharing it with you.   $51-$79]
Sat. 4/28; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — 20th Annual Brew Fest at Manayunk Brewing Company [This beer lover's delight offers 4+ hours of tastings of 70+ craft beers made by some of the best craft breweries. Enjoy live music all day long.  $20-$65]
Mon. 4/30; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from St. Boniface.  $Free]
Sat. 5/5; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. — Maifest at Brauhaus Schmitz [Complementing the South Street Spring Festival, we will host our 6th-Annual Maifest Festival on the 700 block (the best block). Maifest brings the sweet taste of Germany to the South Street spring festival with authentic German food, liters of beer, flower crown making, schnapski tent, German Hungarian Dancers and live music from the Heimatklänge band.  $PAYG or $100 VIP]
Sat. 5/19; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Wheat Beer Fest at South Philadelphia Tap Room [Details to come, but if you've been to this event before, you know what's up.  $PAYG]
Sat. 5/19; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — All-Star Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Festival at Citizens Bank Park [New this year, almost double the space to sample, relax, and enjoy yourself including a 50,000 Sq Ft Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Garden.  $19.95-$16.95]

Phoenixville, Pa.
Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Phoenixville Beer & Wine Festival at Kimberton Fairgrounds [Unlimited sampling experience for craft wine and craft beer aficionados. The festival is a fundraiser benefitting Building Better Neighborhoods.  $10-$65]

Pottstown, Pa.
Sun. 5/6; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Bock Fest & Goat Race at Sly Fox Brewing Company [A German menu is offered to compliment what might be the largest offering of bock-style beers by any brewery in the United States at one time.  $PAYG]

Reading, Pa.
Sun. 4/29; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Third Homebrew Competition at Liberty Taproom [When sampling we ask you to write down your three favorite brewers who get points for every first second and third place vote they receive for a chance to win our "People Champ" belt.  $Free]

Scranton, Pa.
Fri. 4/27 & Sat. 4/28; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; 12 p.m.-4 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. — Montage Mountain Brew Fest at Montage Mountain [Featuring hand selected craft brews from across the nation, the finest local establishments in the area, and the exclusive VIP Food Pairing Session. Enjoy live entertainment, unique cuisines, shop local vendors.  $29-$59]

Wayne, Pa.
Sun. 4/29; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. — Firestone Walker Club Racing League at Teresa's Next Door [Firestone Walker is helping us get in the racing spirit with a race track at Teresa’s. Swing by, have a few beers, and challenge some friends to a race around our track with remote control cars.  $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/27; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Free Sampling at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Neshaminy Creek.  $Free]

Westmont, NJ
Sat. 4/28; 12 p.m. — Funk Fest at Keg & Kitchen [The 5th annual Silly, Sour, & Funky Beer tasting with Food and a Funky good time.  $PAYG]

Wilmington, Del.
Thu. 4/26; 5 p.m. — Devils Backbone Takeover & Seafood Pairing at Ulysses Gastropub [Chef James Sparks will be creating fantastic seafood dishes with fresh ingredients from the Chesapeake Bay and pairing them with awesome Devils Backbone beers.  $PAYG]




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com



Friday, April 20, 2018

After 30 years, Celebrator Magazine no longer in print


If I had to put money on the last beer magazine in print - you know, the type that you actually pick up with your hands, on paper, and turn the actual pages to read - I'd have said good money would have Celebrator Magazine there at the end. But, alas, as you'll see over Jay Brooks' website, Brookston Beer Bulletin, they consolidated to a website-only version of Celebrator going forward. Brooks was a longtime columnist, editor, and Blind Panel Tasting Manager.

As I commented on his site, Celebrator was a substantially sized magazine covering much of the country that I would use in my countless trips to the west coast either as a primer to study up during flight westward on what I might be tasting during my visit or as a recap during my route back east to discover what I might have missed. As you can see, the last issue was called a "collector's edition" - unfortunately, for more reasons than just one.

Plus, they always threw a spectacular anniversary party for the magazine, the last ten years which took place during San Francisco Beer Week. They were kind enough to quote me in wrapping up the one that just took place during SFBW 2018.

p.s. the website has their future looking pretty good. Check it out for yourself.



Celebrator Beer News To Suspend Print Edition

After 30 years of publication the Celebrator Beer News, the first publication to focus exclusively on craft beer, has suspended its print edition. Tom Dalldorf, editor and publisher, stated that the economics of a print magazine requires an advertising base that simply is no longer viable.

“The pervasive use of electronic media has rendered print media superfluous. The expense of design and layout and printing and distribution doesn’t work for the beer enthusiast the way it did just a few years ago,” said Dalldorf.

“The craft beer world has grown tremendously in the last twenty years and beer enthusiasts, craving news and opinions on their favorite subject, are depending on websites and apps for news and reviews,” he said recently.

Consequently, Celebrator has re-launched its website on a WordPress platform that will allow it to be more timely in its coverage of the rapidly changing craft beer world. “Our new site allows us to get stories, news and information up instantly rather than waiting up to two months for the next print issue to drop,” said Dalldorf.

Celebrator Beer News is now available 24/7 at celebrator.com. A mobile app is in the works as well, according to the publisher.


© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com


Thursday, April 19, 2018

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: April 19 - April 25

Got those taxes paid? Or did you get a refund? Either way, I bet you could use a beer, or a few. Here are just a few ways to help you accomplish just that.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Ardmore, Pa.
Thu. 4/19; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — LeBruce Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [In memory of our beloved server, Terrell Bruce, we will be releasing LeBruce Saison. A recipe that was crafted and released due to a competition he won for excellent service standards. We will donate $1.00 per pint purchased directly to the Terrell L. Bruce Memorial Fund.  $PAYG]

Cherry Hill, NJ
Sat. 4/21; 12 p.m. — Cakeover & Mexican Coffee Funnel Cake Can Release at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company [Join us for our annual Cakeover - where our Funnel Cake beer receives different treatments.  $PAYG]

Dover, Del.
Sat. 4/21; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — R2Hop2 at Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company [Our goal with this festival is to bring the community together for one day to enjoy great beer, incredible music, multiple food options, and shop amongst talented local artisans.  $25-$60]

Ewing Township, NJ
Sat. 4/21; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Pints For Pets at River Horse Brewing Company [We will be opening our brewery doors to showcase the adorable furry friends from Easel Animal Rescue looking for forever homes.  $PAYG]

Exton, Pa.
Thu. 4/19; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Bell's Brewery Tasting at Ron's Original Bar & Grille [Ever wonder what 30 years of inspired brewing tastes like? Now’s your chance to find out.  $PAYG]

Harrisburg, Pa.
Fri. 4/20 through Sun. 4/29; Varies — Harrisburg Beer Week at The Best Bars and Breweries around [A 10-day, multi-venue series showcasing breweries, restaurants, pubs and more through 180+ craft beer-centric events, demonstrations, and education throughout the greater Harrisburg area.  $Varies]
Sat. 4/21; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — PA Flavor at Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex [This unique sampling event brings together PA breweries, PA restaurants and PA food producers and industry-related in a 45,000 square foot space.  $20-$75]

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 4/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Hemperor Friday at Federal Taphouse [New Belgium's newest beer, Hemperor is brewed with real hemp and is super dank and aromatic.  $PAYG]

Leola, Pa.
Thu. 4/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Evil Genius Takeover at Funck's [Night of beers from Evil Genius.  $PAYG]

Lewes, Del.
Fri. 4/20; 5 p.m. — The Dankness Beer Release at Crooked Hammock Brewery [We'll be celebrating the release of our hoppy pilsner with a limited number (100) of commemorative pint glasses and hats.  $PAYG]

Maple Shade, NJ
Thu. 4/19; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — LeBruce Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [In memory of our beloved server, Terrell Bruce, we will be releasing LeBruce Saison. A recipe that was crafted and released due to a competition he won for excellent service standards. We will donate $1.00 per pint purchased directly to the Terrell L. Bruce Memorial Fund.  $PAYG]

Media, Pa.
Fri. 4/20; 4:20 p.m.-6:20 p.m. — Lagunitas Waldo 4:20 at Pinocchio's [It's Lagunitas at 4:20.  $PAYG]

Mont Clare, Pa.
Sat. 4/21; 2 p.m.-8 p.m. — Schuylkill River Trail Outdoor Party at St. Michael's Field [Live music by OK Otter and Mason Porter, the debut of SRT Ale as a year-round brand, and curbside cuisine from local food trucks like The Tot Cart. Part of SRT Spree Weekend.  $PAYG]

North Wales, Pa.
Thu. 4/19; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — LeBruce Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [In memory of our beloved server, Terrell Bruce, we will be releasing LeBruce Saison. A recipe that was crafted and released due to a competition he won for excellent service standards. We will donate $1.00 per pint purchased directly to the Terrell L. Bruce Memorial Fund.  $PAYG]

Palmyra, Pa.
Tue. 4/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tattered Flag Sampling at Funck's [Sampling of beers from Tattered Flag.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 4/19; 4 p.m. — Grand Opening at Love City Brewing Company [Be one of the first people to tour the brewery and enjoy fresh beers in our tasting room.  $PAYG]
Thu. 4/19; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — LeBruce Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [In memory of our beloved server, Terrell Bruce, we will be releasing LeBruce Saison. A recipe that was crafted and released due to a competition he won for excellent service standards. We will donate $1.00 per pint purchased directly to the Terrell L. Bruce Memorial Fund.  $PAYG]
Thu. 4/19; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Weyerbacher Thirdsday and Funky Friday at Hop Angel Brauhaus [Tapping Weyerbacher Wit, straight up. Get the cask-conditioned version on Fri. 4/20 at Grey Lodge for $1 with a voucher from Hop Angel.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/20; 3 p.m. — Leinenkugel Sampling at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Leinenkugel.  $Free]
Fri. 4/20; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Arbor Day with Yards at Devil's Den [Yards, Fairmount Park Conservancy, and Tree Philly are giving out trees to people who are interested in planting them in their yards. Yards draft specials and the release of our new city wide, the Philly Philly City Wide (can of Yards Philly Pale Ale with a shot of Kinsey Rye).  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/20; 7 p.m. — NOLA Event at Pub On Passyunk East (P.O.P.E.) [At least a half dozen beers from NOLA (New Orleans Lager & Ale).  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/20; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Weyerbacher Thirdsday and Funky Friday at Grey Lodge [Tapping cask-conditioned Weyerbacher Wit, with Idaho 7 hops. Get it for $1 with a voucher from Hop Angel on Thu. 4/19.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/20; All day — 4/20 Flower Festival at Memphis Taproom [While it is no secret that hops are our favorite flowers it would be shabby of us to not take some time to legally celebrate their very close cousin with some herbaceous beers to be poured throughout the day.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/21; 11 a.m. — 10th Anniversary Beer Garden Festival at Memphis Taproom [We are in the midst of recreating our April 2008 Opening tap list, try them all for just $4 bucks. Of course you know we've evolved over the last 10 years and now offer an additional 12 drafts including our ever evolving sour/barrel aged program. All day long we will be serving fantastic sour beers from our area and from around the world.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/21; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — MGK's Locals Only Beer Fest at Independence Seaport Museum [MGK has teamed up with Independence Seaport Museum to bring 25 of the area's finest breweries into one place to celebrate the tremendous bounty of awesome brew being made in and around Philadelphia.  $10-$45]
Sat. 4/21; 3 p.m.-7 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level Two at Philly Beer School [In this program the student learns to develop beer recipes and brew all-grain beers.  $175]
Sat. 4/21; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. —  Stiftungsfest at Cannstatter Volksfest Verein [Please save the date for our 93. Stiftungsfest - with performances from the GTV Almrausch and friends, and music from Die Spitzbuam.  $12-$15]
Mon. 4/23; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Conshohocken.  $Free]
Tue. 4/24; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [Lord Hobo Brewing Co has broken into the Philly beer scene with some tasty, tasty brews, Including this week's feature, Boom Sauce.  $PAYG]
Tue. 4/24; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Queen Village) [Lord Hobo Brewing Co has broken into the Philly beer scene with some tasty, tasty brews, Including this week's feature, Boom Sauce.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 4/20; 4:20 p.m. — Knocked The Firk Out at Root Down Brewing Company [We will have a special beer, mead, food, and firkin lineup for 4/20.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/21; 12 p.m. — Phlight Of The Phoenix at 7 Craft Establishments in Phoenixville [Come to Bluebird Distilling, Iron Hill, Root Down, Rec Room by Conshohocken Brewing, The Barrel, Crowded Castle, and Stable 12 between Noon and 11 p.m. Order a beer, wine, or craft cocktail, and have your "boarding pass" punched. At your last stop, you get a Phlight of the Phoenix T-shirt.  $PAYG]

Reading, Pa.
Fri. 4/20; 8 p.m. — Up In Smoke 4/20 at Oakbrook Brewing Company [Join us for the classic Cheech & Chong Up In Smoke on our 108" screen. We'll have popcorn and we'll have a food truck from The Dog House in case the movie gives you the munchies.  $PAYG]

Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Tue. 4/24; 4 p.m. — Brewing with Bryan at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats [Each month, four people will be chosen at random to spend some time working with Brewing Ambassador Bryan Selders at our Rehoboth brewpub.  $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/20; 4:20 p.m. — 4:20 on 4/20 at Levante Brewing Company [We need those extra 20 minutes...ssshhh..don't tell. We will release some new beers...We will drink many beers...We will order tacos and burritos from Dos Gringos Mexican Kitchen food truck...We will listen to Bill Hake play guitar while we pound beers and tacos...We will hang out together and chill...  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/20; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Sampling at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Sweetwater.  $Free]

Westmont, NJ
Mon. 4/23; All day — Saison-Centric Allagash Brewing Tap Takeover at The Pour House [Allagash will be pouring new and rare beers with a heavy focus on their beloved saison-style, like Belifus, Saison Gratis, and Shiro’s Delight.  $PAYG]

Wilmington, Del.
Wed. 4/25; 7 p.m. — Brewers of Delaware Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Come celebrate Delaware brewers at our annual beer dinner from Executive Chef Dave Foster featuring a different Delaware brewery for each course.  $65]





© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com



Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Beer and Food together at The Brewers Plate... and dinner at Wegmans

(click picture for a full gallery of pictures from Brewer's Plate 2018)

In my attempt to offset my somewhat erratic posting nature while staying both timely and relevant (hey, who said that?!), I'm gonna pair up two recent food and beer events worth sharing with you. One will be obvious and the other, maybe not quite so much so.

First and foremost on the whole food 'n' beer subject is (and has been now for 14 impressive years) the annual Brewer's Plate event in Philadelphia. I list it as one of the region's must-do annual events on pages 356-7 of my "Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic" book. Like how I worked that in there? 😋

For the fifth consecutive year, it was held at the equally impressive Kimmel Center on South Broad Street. This annual event has certainly criss-crossed the city through the years, stopping at some of the most striking venues -- the first three at Reading Terminal Market, followed by one at the Independence Visitors Center, then three at University of Pennsylvania's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, and two at The Constitution Center.

What has remained consistent, regardless of the venue, is the high quality presentation of food and beer. Not presented mutually exclusively, but rather quite intentionally where brewers are matched with chefs well in advance in order to serve, next to each other during the event, beer that complements the food and vice versa. Many foods served have even used the specific beer in the cooking and presentation. This original formula has continued to work extremely well since the first year and I expect it to continue as a unique and standout event in the industry.

This year it was held on a Friday, when in the past it's been held on a Sunday. There's definitely argument for there being less competition on the events calendar hosting the event on a Sunday. And, if I'm not mistaken, I believe it's been typically held earlier in March. This year was on the last Friday of March, which happened to coincide with both Good Friday and the beginning of Passover. To what degree this impacted attendance may not be quantifiable with any precision, but compared to past years, it was obviously not a sell-out as most other years have been. While I strongly suggest continuing to hold Brewer's Plate on a Friday night, good money would say that it won't be held on a Friday that coincides with major holiday(s).

On the topic of attendance, it's also fair game to discuss what makes a successful/popular beer event these days. It doesn't take high-order analytics to see that beer event calendars these days are dominated more than ever by simple events - tastings, tap takeovers, special one-day releases. In other words, low overhead and easy-to-execute (and therefore cheaper to the consumer) events.


Which brings us to the beer dinner at Wegmans in Malvern last week. Seven attendees may be discouraging and speak to what constitutes a popular beer event format these days.  In past years, for example, at least half of Iron Hill's locations would, nearly without fail, host a beer dinner per month. Numerous other establishments across the region (both city and suburb) would do likewise. Now, they're extremely more the rare exception than the rule. Wegmans, in the past, has been known to put on food pairing events, beer dinners, and the like from store to store. Now, it's basically just free samplings from time to time.

But none of that should take away from the five-course dinner they pulled off with beers from Founders (by way of Stockertown Beverage and its representative, Jess Kearney). I wouldn't be writing about it if it didn't deserve the recognition. Apart from the odd serving size of the first two beers (Gold Rush Lager and All Day IPA) - four, maybe five, ounces? - the dinner and pairings were well executed. Kearney and the chef introduced each beer and plate of food. Each dish was a unique creation for the event and not available on the standard pub menu at Wegmans. Serving sizes were generous and the pairing standout of the evening was a toss-up between the lamb/Dirty Bastard and coffee cake/KBS (2018).

The electricity was out for at least a half hour when we first arrived and we wondered at first if we'd be searching for dinner elsewhere. This was the result of the deluge of late winter/early spring rain, snow, and wind that have tormented the Philadelphia area. Fortunately, the electricity came back, the dinner was on, and was pulled off without a hitch. I hope to see more from Wegmans in the not-so-far-away future.

Oh, did I mention the icing on the cake? Figuratively, not literally. A bottle of three-year-old (four, if you count the year of barrel-aging) Kentucky Breakfast Stout to take home for later enjoyment.

   

   

   



© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com


Tuesday, April 17, 2018

Remember when Green Flash ruled the West Coast IPA?

Here's another press release for you to digest. This one carries more detail with it over at Brewbound, which I encourage you to follow and read.

There are numerous ways a brewery can go out. Whether this is the revival of Green Flash or just an intermission remains to be seen, but there's enough doubt it will ever be the same. Here on the east coast, we may not see it again for the foreseeable future, as the new owners begin to reel distribution back much closer to home in southern California.

And the Virginia Beach location that just opened a little over a year ago? The one that I'd swear would be a perfect stopping point along the way to/from my annual Outer Banks (NC) vacation? But yet the timing never worked out to show up during open hours? That's closed up. Such a shame. Here's the press release below and the rest of the color at Brewbound.


Green Flash Brewing Completes Previously Announced Sale to Investor Group; Announces Addition of Dave Mills as New Vice President of Sales

Award-winning San Diego brewery emerges from the sale with stabilized financial position and streamlined operations

San Diego, CA – April 2, 2018 — San Diego-based Green Flash Brewing Company is excited to announce the completion of the previously-announced sale of its West Coast brewing operations. The new investor group, which includes a number of individuals with extensive experience in both the craft beer and food and beverage industries, is committed to maintaining Green Flash’s status as an iconic independent craft-brewing interest. With this new financial backing and focus, Green Flash will return to its Southern California roots, while consolidating distribution of its beers and those of sister-brand Alpine Beer Company to San Diego County and the greater Southwest.

Green Flash Brewing Company emerges from the sale with a stabilized financial position and streamlined operations. Green Flash has ceased operations at its production brewery in Virginia Beach, Va., its barrel-aging facility in Poway, Ca., and completed its transition from national to regional distribution. The company will focus on brewing exceptional beer, connecting with customers, and building the brands in the core markets of California, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Nebraska.

The Green Flash and Alpine breweries will continue to operate in San Diego and Alpine, respectively. Meanwhile, the Green Flash Brewhouse & Eatery in Lincoln, Neb. will open in April, and will brew specialty beers serving the state of Nebraska. This brewery will serve as the model for future customer connection points in the Southwestern United States.

Green Flash Brewing Company is also announcing some changes to the management team, led by the announcement of Dave Mills as new Vice President of Sales and Business Development. Dave, who previously served as Chief Sales Officer at Ballast Point Brewing Company, will manage all sales and trade marketing activities. Dave said, “I am stoked to join the Green Flash team in my hometown of San Diego. The Green Flash and Alpine brands are iconic in San Diego beer culture. This opportunity is the dream of a lifetime and I can’t wait to begin my new adventure.”

Dave will replace Jim Kenny, who served as VP of Sales for the last eight years. Jim leaves a legacy, as he spearheaded growth for Green Flash from 14,000 to over 90,000 barrels per year at its peak. “Jim’s Hungwah-spirit and GSD work ethic pushed us to great heights,” says Hinkley, who added, “I wish Jim all the best and I know he will find a great position in the beer business."

Mike Hinkley, who started Green Flash 16 years ago, will lead the company. Chris Ross, President, will leave the company. Chris was appointed President in late 2016 and did an outstanding job guiding the company through some difficult times over the past two years. “Chris helped reshape the company, making this transaction possible. We are all very grateful to him for all of his efforts,” said Hinkley.

Other key management roles include Erik Jensen – Vice President of Brewing Operations, Dave Adams – Vice President of Hospitality, Nicole Hanlon – Director of Human Resources, and Katie Wolbrink – Controller.

The investor group was represented by Livingstone Partners, an international middle market M&A firm with seven offices located in the United States, Europe and Asia.

About Green Flash Brewing Co.
Green Flash Brewing Co. is headquartered in San Diego, California. Established in 2002 by co-founders Mike and Lisa Hinkley, it has grown into the 43th largest craft brewing company in the country behind iconic brands such as West Coast IPA, an award-winning beer whose wide acceptance helped define one of the most popular style categories of all time. Brewmaster Erik Jensen leads brewing operations for beers within the Green Flash portfolio as well as those of Alpine, Calif.-based Alpine Beer Co., which the company acquired in 2014. For more information, visit: www.greenflashbrew.com.


© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com


Saturday, April 14, 2018

Industry data shows craft segment still growing, now to over 6,300 brewing establishments

Continuing the press release sharing this morning, I have one from a couple weeks back from the Brewers Association that you should find interesting, particularly if you're the number-crunching kind.



Small and Independent Brewers See Sustained Growth in 2017

Brewers Association releases new data figures for craft brewers

Boulder, Colo • March 27, 2018The Brewers Association (BA)—the trade association representing small and independent1 American craft brewers—today released 2017 data on U.S. craft brewing2 growth. With over 6,300 breweries operating during the year, small and independent craft brewers represent 12.7 percent market share by volume of the overall beer industry.

In 2017, craft brewers produced 25.4 million barrels, and saw a 5 percent rise in volume3 on a comparable base and an 8 percent increase in retail dollar value. Retail dollar value was estimated at 26.0 billion, representing 23.4 percent market share. Microbreweries and brewpubs delivered 76 percent of the craft brewer growth. Craft brewing’s growth occurred in the context of a total beer market which dropped 1 percent by volume in 2017.

“Growth for the craft brewing industry is adapting to the new realities of a mature market landscape,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “Beer lovers are trending toward supporting their local small and independent community craft breweries. At the same time, as distribution channels experience increased competition and challenges, craft brewer performance was more mixed than in recent years, with those relying on the broadest distribution facing the most pressure.”

Additionally, in 2017 the number of operating breweries in the U.S. grew 16 percent, totaling 6,372 breweries, broken down as follows: 3,812 microbreweries, 2,252 brewpubs, 202 regional craft breweries and 106 large or otherwise non-craft brewers. Small and independent breweries account for 98 percent of the breweries in operation. Throughout the year, there were 997 new brewery openings and only 165 closings— a closing rate of just 2.6 percent. Combined with already existing and established breweries and brewpubs, craft brewers provided more than 135,000 jobs, an increase of greater than 6,000 from the previous year.

“Beer lovers want to support businesses that align with their values and are having a positive impact on their local communities and our larger society,” added Watson. “That’s what small and independent craft brewers are all about. The ability to seek beers from small and independent producers matters.”

To educate beer lovers about which beers are independently produced, the BA launched the certified independent seal in June 2017. More than 3,100 independent brewers have committed to adopting it.

Notes: Numbers are preliminary.

1An American craft brewer is small, independent and traditional. Small: Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less (approximately 3 percent of U.S. annual sales). Beer production is attributed to the rules of alternating proprietorships. Independent: Less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by an alcoholic beverage industry member that is not itself a craft brewer. Traditional: A brewer that has a majority of its total beverage alcohol volume in beers whose flavor derives from traditional or innovative brewing ingredients and their fermentation. Flavored malt beverages (FMBs) are not considered beers.

2Absolute figures reflect the dynamic craft brewer data set as specified by the craft brewer definition. Growth numbers are presented on a comparable base. For full methodology, see the Brewers Association website.

3 Volume by craft brewers represent total taxable production.



© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com


Thursday, April 12, 2018

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: April 12 - April 18

Time to pay the tax man. Depending on your situation, you might want to grab a beer.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Ambler, Pa.
Sun. 4/15; 11:30 a.m. — Sixth Anniversary Party at Forest & Main [As in years before, we will have lots of special beer on draft and our favorite bands on stage. We will have the tap list posted as the event gets closer, look for kegs of our collaborations with Modern Times, Horus Aged Ales, and Jester King.  $PAYG]

Aston, Pa.
Sat. 4/14; 12 p.m. — April Showers Wit Saisons at 2SP Brewing Company [We'll be tapping 6 Belgian style beers. Including a sixtel of our latest collaboration with Tonewood Brewing, a Grisette with lemons. Stay tuned to find out what else we'll be tapping. We'll have two food trucks serving the grub that day: La Bella Luna and Doggie Style.  $PAYG]

Bloomsburg, Pa.
Sat. 4/14; 7 p.m.-11 p.m. — Taming Of The Brew at Caldwell Consistory [This annual event is a local favorite and continues the legacy of supporting Bloomsburg Theater Ensemble with a host of return and brand new brewers and restaurants.  $PAYG]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.
Sat. 4/14; 12 p.m. — 6th Anniversary Party at Naked Brewing Company [Join us in a celebration of beer, friends, family, and fun.  $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 4/13; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Flying Fish Tap Invasion at Federal Taphouse [Join us for a night of great libations from our friends at Flying Fish Brewing Co.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/14; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Hop In To Spring at Isaac's Pickle Bar [We'll be pairing four Spring-inspired dishes with four great drafts from ZeroDay, Tröegs, Stone, and Victory.  $29.95]

Lititz, Pa.
Mon. 4/16; 5:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House [Four courses paired with beers from Hardywood Park.  $39]

Media, Pa.
Thu. 4/12; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Weyerbacher Sampling at Pinocchio's [Night of beers from Weyerbacher.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/14; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Hops and Hounds Mini Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [A mini multi-tap in conjunction with a Give 20 benefitting the American Rescue Foundation of Media.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Fri. 4/13; 2 p.m. — Friday The Firkinteenth at Grey Lodge Pub [Once again, we will tap a lot of cask ale, but for this one we are switching it up. There will be one session with about 40 different pins. Pins are exactly half the size of a firkin. Come early, come later, stay for the whole thing, whatever you like, we'll have lots of freshly tapped cask ale.  $PAYG]
Fri. 4/13; 3 p.m. — 21st Amendment Sampling at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from 21st Amendment.  $Free]
Fri. 4/13; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Rivertowne Tasting at Beer Love [Beers from Rivertowne Brewing, just outside Pittsburgh.  $Free]
Sat. 4/14; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School [A brewer-instructor will guide you through the process step by step: from brew to boil to bottle. By the end of the second day of class, you will be bottling your own hand-crafted beer.  $150]
Sun. 4/15; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — #Adulting featuring Evil Genius at Garage-Fishtown [Evil Genius will be here with their tasty brews, including Stacy's Mom Citra IPA, I Love Lamp Pineapple Hefeweizen, and #Adulting Guava IPA.  $PAYG]
Mon. 4/16; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Fat Head's.  $Free]
Tue. 4/17; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [This week's tapping will feature part of Lancaster Brewing Company's Jam Series: Track #8 Papaya Milkshake IPA.  $PAYG]
Tue. 4/17; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Queen Village) [This week's tapping will feature part of Lancaster Brewing Company's Jam Series: Track #8 Papaya Milkshake IPA.  $PAYG]
Wed. 4/18; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — You Buy The Glass at The Abbaye [Terrapin Brewing Co. keepsake glass, raffles, prizes, and giveaways.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.
Thu. 4/12; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Philadelphia Children's Alliance Fundraiser at Root Down Brewing Company [We will have two special firkins available: Blood Orange Bine and a Cinnamon Coconut Porter. Every contribution made that day to Philadelphia Children's Alliance gets you a free sample.  $PAYG]

Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 4/13; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Victory Brewing Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [We will have Victorty brewing here pouring samples.  $Free]

Reading, Pa.
Thu. 4/12; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Neshaminy Creek & Fried Pizza Dough Pairing at Liberty Taproom [April's monthly food and beer pairing brings us great local beer from Neshaminy Creek paired with Garlic Knots and Zeppole's from our house made dough.  $PAYG]
Sat. 4/14; 10 a.m. — Berks Brewery & Breweriana Fest at Berks History Center Museum [A look at Berks County's legendary beer brewing history in a presentation led by Breweriana Aficionado, Chad Campbell, followed by a breweriana collectors display. Beer tasting hosted by Oakbrook Brewing Company.  $15]

Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Sat. 4/14; 4 p.m. — Spirited Dinner - 'We Said Beer, They Said Wine, Grandpa Said Cocktails' at Chesapeake & Maine [We'll suggest the beer, wine and spirit pairings for each course, and then you choose which one you'd like to enjoy. No need to get tickets ahead of time. Just come on in and our servers will be happy to walk you through the evening’s themed, 3-course menu.  $40]

West Chester, Pa.
Fri. 4/13; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Sampling at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Weyerbacher.  $Free]





© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com



Monday, April 09, 2018

More Fox on the run: Sly Fox to grow with a new location


For those of you following along both here and in social media land, you may have caught me slipping some not-quite-confirmed news out there about Sly Fox's future [link to Facebook].

This isn't about that.

Instead, they chose to confirm another "rumor" that had been floating around - that of opening a brewpub in Berks County. Wyomissing to be specific. On the old Vanity Fair outlet complex property to be even more specific.

This strikes close to home for me, literally, as I was raised in Berks County and had my back-to-school fashion needs taken care of with shopping at the outlets - for Lee jeans and other stylish duds.

So in keeping with my proclamation last week that I'd begin sharing select press releases with you, I believe this one certainly falls under the umbrella of news you can use. Sly Fox beer is already distributed in five states, plus D.C., and this move serves to further shore up and invest in their home turf, which I think is a critical move for mid-tier/regional brewery, particularly those of a similar certain age.

And, did someone say "indoor Kan Jam"?!

Regarding that other rumor - another new Sly Fox location, in Malvern, Chester County? That will have to wait for another day.




RUMORS VERIFIED: Sly Fox Opening Brewery Outpost in Wyomissing
Pottstown, Pennsylvania – For more than 20 years, Sly Fox Brewing Company has remained focused on producing quality lagers and ales while building a reputation for their establishments—two festive pubs in southeastern Pennsylvania featuring a revolving list of award-winning beers and a lineup of can’t miss events.

A legendary goat race, a massive outdoor concert and Boot Camp– where the brewery gives away a trip to Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day–are just a few of the many creative events that contribute to making Sly Fox pubs unique in the universe of craft beer destinations.

Since opening their doors in 1995, the Sly Fox pubs have become local fixtures, community allies and favorite spots for beer appreciation. Celebrating, meeting friends and enjoying consistently creative cuisine is what we are about.

The family-owned operation is launching a third location just 20 miles west of the Pottstown brewing operation, in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. “We look forward to immersing ourselves in the community and working with local charities and creating activities at the new location,” stated John Giannopoulos, Sly Fox Brewing Company president.

“Wyomissing is a booming neighborhood,” says Giannopoulos. “There are large employers, great residential sections, a museum, and improvement happening all over. There are tons of great street festivals, events, and the restaurant selection is top notch! We are very excited we are to be part of the future growth here.”

The newest Sly Fox outpost will be located at 801 Hill Avenue on the eastern edge of the Borough of Wyomissing in a renovated building that was formerly a part of the expansive VF Outlet. Most recently a Dooney & Bourke™ retail store, the building that Sly Fox Wyomissing will call home is part of a development poised to transform Wyomissing into the ideal live, work, and play location in Berks County.

Philadelphia-based Equus Capital Partners purchased the 24-acre center from Vanity Fair Corporation at the end of 2016 with the intention of redeveloping it as a mixed-use campus. Equus has committed more than $70M into Phase I of the Knitting Mills, and Phase II, a 20-acre site north of the main campus, has already attracted corporate tenants interested in new construction build-to-suit offices.

In addition to retaining the retail outlets and McDonald’s, the campus will be anchored by a new Wawa and corporate office users such as UGI Services’ regional headquarters and Tower Health’s corporate offices.

Incorporated in 1906, Berkshire Knitting Mill began as an experimental hosiery factory and, for a time, was the largest fashion knitting mill in the world.

“There’s a real sense of history here and throughout the Wyomissing area,” reflects Giannopoulos. “With the unique architecture and use of materials, these older buildings evoke a true sense of nostalgia. It’s great to see the community rallying behind it and repurposing the space.”

The 7,000+-square-foot building features two floors and will include a newly installed wrap-around deck. Materials, including 100-year-old bricks from the original Berkshire Knitting Mills, will be featured prominently into the Sly Fox decor and buildout.

“We’re envisioning a casual dining and bar atmosphere upstairs and a game room below like nothing else,” adds Giannopoulos. “The lower space is wide open with room for a stage and bar games. There’s even room for an indoor Kan Jam Tournament!”

Sly Fox Wyomissing will focus on developing a fresh and locally sourced menu to accompany their well-regarded beer portfolio. The convenient location, just off of Penn Avenue, is a prime spot for foodies and craft beer aficionados.

Sly Fox has had a strong presence in Berks County for many years. The brewery formed an alliance with the Reading Fightins two years ago and sponsored the team’s Power Alley Pub.

“We are thrilled to get Sly Fox as a lead tenant and believe they will attract other restaurants and stores as well as providing an important amenity for the employees located on campus and residents of Wyomissing and West Reading,” offers Kevin Flannery, acquisition associate and asset manager at Equus Capital Partners, Ltd.

Sly Fox Brewing Company’s Wyomissing announcement comes hot on the heels of other ambitious changes at the brewery that are being positively received in the beer community.

These changes include a brand refresh and three new offerings: Sly Fox Mudlust Coffee Porter, Vulpulin IPA and Alex’s Lemon Wheat, a brew that benefits the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

“We’re really excited to create something special in Wyomissing,” says Giannopoulos. “A local pub that offers our award-winning beer lineup, but more—a community asset that people will love.”

About Sly Fox Brewing Company
Since their inaugural brew in 1995, Sly Fox has crafted more than 100 different top-notch craft beers. Their critically acclaimed year-round lineup and highly anticipated seasonals are available in their brewpubs in Phoenixville and Pottstown, as well as top bars and restaurants in PA, NJ, NY, MD, VA and Washington, DC. They were the first craft brewery in the mid-Atlantic to put in a canning line, adding it to their facility in 2006, and with it, earned the first-ever Great American Beer Festival (GABF) medal awarded to a canned craft beer, in 2007. They have earned GABF medals virtually every year since, including a gold medal for Grisette Summer Ale in 2017, and are widely recognized as among the region’s best and most enduring craft breweries.




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com