Showing posts with label Philly Beer Week. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philly Beer Week. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
PBW 2008 - And One Last Word
Jack getting in his last words reminded me that I still had this in the hopper. So, without further ado, I hereby present my last words (promise!) on PBW 2008.
I know, I know...what more could I possibly say that hasn't been said. Let's break it up into two categories: more reactions from around town (check here from the first half of the week's commentary); and my overall impressions and suggestions for a better PBW 2009.
- Who wasn't at the "Kill the Sixtel"? Who wasn't amazed at the efficiency and enthusiasm of the crowd moving through the sixtels from bar to bar
- Utopia at Beaumont's/Monk's Expensive Beer Dinner. Say no more.
- Nice comments came in regarding various events at Jose Pistola's, Aspen Street, Johnny Brenda's, and For Pete's Sake
- Where was Lew when he was due on the mic at Triumph? unanswered questions...
- Speaking of where were.....Where were the shuttles due to get people around town? More than a few people have told me they were looking for them, but couldn't find them even hiding around the corner
- PhillyBeerGeek.com will be posting video recap of the finals night at Johnny Brenda's
- Lot of interest in doing more beer runs
- Bobo from Chimay made quite the splash with guys and gals alike
- Scoats continued with more successful oddball (all affection intended) events
- The Ladies Beer Tea sold out and was a rousing success; no tea to be found, I was told
Sssooooo, how to make next year even better? I give the overall 10 day event, eh, something like a B+, which means there's room for improvement. Here's a few suggestions for how:
- plan, plan, plan, organize, organize, organize...more and sooner
- on the more and sooner point, planning sooner and wrapping in hotel and airline/rail packages can help attract more out-of-towners
- get transportation more involved (SEPTA, complimentary shuttles, historic trolleys, rickshaws, etc.); the area's too big to expect people to get around on their own via bus or cab
- more suburbs; include them early and earnestly. Philly Beer is about way more than just Philly Proper. Plus, not all locals from the hinterlands can get downtown as often as they may like to. Give them the option to do more in the 'burbs.
- more diversity; Meet 'n' Greets and Special Tastings are great, but how about more homebrewing events/competitions (isn't this where many professionals started?), more dinners (aka food/beer pairing events), and more specialty events (I'll leave it at that since I've got some more ideas).
- more promotional creativity (once again, leaving it at that since I've got some unique ideas here too); make people WANT/NEED to take off an entire week of work to attend as much as they possibly can
That said, I'm signing off of PBW until later this year. I had a great time and hope that you all did too.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Philly Beer Week Index
With PBW 2008 now behind us, I'm bumping this "index" to the top of the page for the next week. I'll be taking some time off to recover, both physically and mentally. Until then, catch up with some of what you may have missed during Philly Beer Week. God help you if you actually tried to read all of this stuff as I posted it every day and night.
My hope is that we'll be able to dig this out next year and refer back to it as we plan for PBW 2009. Will it be another IMPERIAL Philly Beer Week like this year?
With Philly Beer Week fast approaching, you should have noticed by now that I have been putting together profiles of local breweries and brewpubs every few days or so. For some of you locals, much of what you read in the profiles may not be new news. But, hopefully for those of you a little farther out (geographically, I mean), whether you are attending a PBW event or not, this information may be helpful....especially, the list at the bottom of each profile of "Where you can find
I'll keep an index here of PBW-related topics at The Brew Lounge, as well as a link to various forms of PBW calendars that are floating around out there.
Daily Events & Where to find The Brew Lounge & Post-Mortem Wrap-ups
Friday, March 7th; Day 1 Wrap-Up
Saturday, March 8th; Day 2 Wrap-Up
Sunday, March 9th; Day 3 Wrap-Up
Monday, March 10th; Day 4 Wrap-Up
Tuesday, March 11th; Day 5 Wrap-Up
Mid-Term Report
Wednesday, March 12th; Day 6 Wrap-Up
Thursday, March 13th; Day 7 Wrap-Up
Friday, March 14th; Day 8 Wrap-Up
Saturday, March 15th; Day 9 Wrap-Up
Sunday, March 16th; Day 10 Wrap-Up
End of Session Wrap-Up
Updates
Run Philly Beer Run - Updated 3/4/08
Rain Date Invoked for Beer Run - Updated 3/8/08
Real Ale Cask List Finalized - Updated 3/13/08
Profiles
Dock Street Brewery & Restaurant [Profile]
Flying Fish Brewing Company [Profile]
General Lafayette Inn & Brewery [Profile]
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Profile]
Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant [Profile]
Nodding Head Brewery [Profile]
Philadelphia Brewing Co. [Profile]
Sly Fox Brewing Co. [Profile]
Stoudt's Brewing Co. [Profile]
Triumph Brewing Co. [Profile]
Victory Brewing Co. [Profile]
Yards Brewing Co. [Profile]
11 more brewery profiles from the Philly Region
A Profile of Joe Sixpack
Calendars
Official Philly Beer Week Calendar
The Brew Lounge's spreadsheet-formatted PBW Calendar
The Beer Yard's PBW Calendar
Google-based PBW Calendar (thanks to David)
Event Details for March 12th @ TJ's in Paoli, PA
Running for Beer...A Beer Run on March 8th from the Art Museum to Dock Street Brewery
PBW 2008 - Day 10 Wrap-Up
Day 10 Report
 |
| Last Day of PBW 2008 |
Background: There was no doubt that this would be a busy, but memorable, last day to PBW 2008. In some ways, it was a relief that the frenetic pace of the last 10 days was coming to end. In another way, it was a bit of a melancholic feel, like as a kid at the end of summer camp. This first ever Imperial Philly Beer Week (not your standard 7 days), was an unparalleled and unquestioned success and this last day should have been no exception. Looking back, it seemed so hard to believe that The Brewer's Plate was only 7 days prior. Or, that Johnny Brenda's was less than 72 hours.
Where to: Taking the train into the city, I actually skipped(!) Bridewater's and hopped the El to 2nd street where I popped into Campo's for a cheesesteak (a great base!), then to The Khyber to kill some time before heading into Triumph for the real ale festival. Later it was on to Nodding Head, Monk's, and Fergie's.
Why: It was tough to decide which events to hit up on the last day of PBW 2008. Initially, I'd wanted to do a brunch at The Drafting Room in Exton, but when I realized that PA's Sunday laws prevent serving (alcohol, that is) before 11am, I knew that a stop there was out of the question. And, there was no way I was going to get to Fork in Old City early enough to do the brunch there before hitting up Triumph. And, there was certainly no way that I was missing the cask ale festival, but it meant that Drie Fonteinen had to get bumped. Fortunately, I was able to bump into Armand at Monk's dinner later. But, with the Monk's dinner and the Last Call at Fergie's, it meant the canned beer at Aspen would have to be sacrificed. A day of many decisions...not necessarily a bad position to be in, eh?
What to drink: Blue Point Toasted Lager at The Khyber; many, many different cask ales to choose from at Triumph; a lovely (yes, I said lovely) Berliner Weisse at Nodding Head; a handful of special beers, including Westy 12, tied to the memory of Michael Jackson at Monk's with the six-course dinner; then the Cricket Hill's Colonel Blide ESB as my last T.U.D. at Fergie's.
Who to share a drink with: Wow, where to begin?! From the first guy named Tom that I saw at The Khyber (also killing time before Triumph) to the last guy that I saw (Tim Ohst, whom we gave a lift back to Wayne after Fergie's), there were many of the same as well as some new faces that I hadn't yet seen during PBW. Some of the new faces included Kevin (cask ale Kevin), Paul Pendyck (what a wonderful treat to see him and family swing through Philly for a few beers and food (and a fix to the beer engine at Nodding Head!), a guy named Woody dressed like a monk (hm, where have I seen him before?!), Karen (aka BA mughugger and aka Woody's traveling companion!), Jack Curtin (whose path I had not really crossed yet for a prolonged period of time during PBW), and Bruce Nichols (Museum Catering Director and PBW planner).
Reaction: There were no out-and-out disappointments at the Real Ale Festival. The folks from Yards and Triumph did a wonderful job organizing and pulling off the event and the servers with both the food and the beer kept things humming nicely. Nodding Head provided a nice pitstop to put back a recently brewed Berliner Weisse and throw some darts. The Monk's dinner lived up to the high standard that they've set a long time ago. And the wrap-up at Fergie's? Wow! I can't tell you how relaxed so many people looked who had put in such long hours trekking around the city and suburbs for the past 10 days. Their hard work had paid off, creating a successful event that has the rest of the country on notice. Congratulations to all of you...I'm sure the party went well into the early morning hours....again! The drinks were flowing, the karaoke was (sometimes) melodic, and the vibe was pulsing like it would never end. It doesn't have to. Only 5 days 'til Split Thy Skull...rest up!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
PBW 2008 - Day 9 Wrap-Up
Day 9 Report
Background: All worked out well with taking off Friday night, though the happy hour at Nodding Head sounded as special as I expected. It was for the best, since a 6 mile run was ahead of me, after-run beers at Dock Street, and the Grey Lodge Ides of March event at night time. Fortunately, I nixed the MJ Museum event and caught a few hours sleep before Grey Lodge.
Where to: Dock Street hosted our after-run party with pizza and beer; Grey Lodge later found me hunkered down upstairs with Big Dan, amongst many other party people
Why: The running came about from me and Suzy wanting to put on a unique PBW event, one that tells the rest of the world that beer drinkers are not one-dimensional. Rosemarie at Dock Street hopped right on board, offering her place as our destination. On all fronts, this worked out very well.
The Grey Lodge event? Ha, I'm not sure what it is precisely that convinced me that it was worth waking up from a nap, getting re-dressed, and driving back in to the city. It's the Grey Lodge...it's another event thrown and titled in typical Scoats-fashion (Beware the Ides of March...you did check the calendar, right?)...this is precisely the kind of event that will turn out all types of folks from across the beer community...there were buses running from center city bringing patrons. Those are just a few of the reasons that told me to get mine arse to northeast Philly.
What to drink: At Dock Street, phew boy, the pitchers were flying fast and furious. There were multiple pitchers of every available style floating around the thirsty runners and their entourages. Satellite Stout, Rye IPA, Gold Stock, Bohemian Pilsner, St. Albans, and Illuminator Double Bock each offers a little something different.
At Grey Lodge, it was time to put back another couple of Biere de Mars from Southampton, Harpoon Hibernian, and Tröegs Troegenator Double Bock. Other tasties on the menu that I needed to skip included (gravity-poured) Boulder Planet Porter, Weyerbacher 12, and Sly Fox Rauch Bock.
Who to share a drink with: A whole bunch of great people I'd never met before, but now have shared a good run and good beer with. But based on the many comments I received, we may be doing this on a regular basis. Stay tuned...
At Grey Lodge, you name 'em, chances are they were there. Apparently, I just missed Mr. Lager and his lovely; there's a picture to prove it, so I believe it. Brewers, distributors, salespeople, and too many other fun beer folk to mention were all bestowed with homemade crowns courtesy of Scoats.
Too much fun as usual...
Reaction: Don't think I would've had nearly as much fun if I hadn't scored a few hours of nappy time at home. While I would've enjoyed the Museum tasting (and the Malheur???), the nap saved me for the Grey Lodge and Sunday and I wouldn't have it any other way. Just another stellar day in what has shaped up to be a wildly successful first installment of Philly Beer Week. Let's close this thing out now with one last big day! Brunch anyone?
Friday, March 14, 2008
PBW 2008 - Day 8 Wrap-Up
Day 8 Report
Background: I knew before today that I was on the fence for tonight's events. Though, I'm sure to hear about how kick-ass the happy hour at Nodding Head was, I needed to get ready for Saturday's run and relax a bit before the chaos of the last two days of PBW 2008 descended.
Where to: Cosimo Restaurant for a tiny happy hour, then home for dinner.
Why: Believe I already splained.
What to drink: Allagash White at Cosimo; Two homebrews while making dinner; and a phenomenal, out-of-this world Calabaza Blanca from Jolly Pumpkin with dinner.
Who to share a drink with: Mrs. Brew Lounge
Reaction: The quiet before storm, no doubt.
PBW 2008 - Sunday March 16th Schedule
Here is a slimmed-down view of just the events scheduled for Sunday the 16th. It's one last opportunity to change your mind! I will also denote where I will attempt to be during the day.
I've taken liberties to modify the descriptions for each event to conserve space. As always, refer to the official schedule of record over at PBW 2008 website for complete details.
** Where to find The Brew Lounge on 3/16:**
10am beer PAYG brunch buffet $15.95
Belgian Beer Sunday Brunch @ Drafting Room (both locations)
Join us for a Belgian Beer Sunday Brunch Buffet while we pour Belgian beer from De Proef (Flemish Primitive), Blaugies (La Moneuse), Duysters (Loterbol Bruin), De Graal (Hector Tripel). While drinking fine beer our buffet will be enhanced with Belgium menu items like: Mussels in a lager beer broth, waffles served with a cherry lambic syrup, Belgian cheese fondue, roasted garlic steak frittes with garlic chive aioli, carved maple porter glazed pork loin, and stout-spiked chocolate cake.
11am-3pm PAYG
Stone Brunch @ Teresa’s Next Door
Featuring local rep Scott Sheridan and many rare Stone kegs such as Double Bastard ’06, Imperial Stout ’06, 11th Anniversary Black IPA and more to come from the cellars of Stone Brewing!
11pm-3pm PAYG
Sunday Morning Brunch @ South Philadelphia Tap Room
Wake up Sunday morning with discounted Bell's Java Stout and brunch.
12pm-2pm $35
Pennsylvania Brunch @ Fork
Join Fork in welcoming nationally-noted beer writer Lew Bryson for a special brunch featuring a breakfast variety of local beers from his book Pennsylvania Breweries.
12pm-3pm PAYG
Brunch @ The P.O.P.E.
Featuring Flying Fish Apple Jack Grand Cru Beer on draft until last call.
1pm-4pm $50
Real Ale Festival @ Triumph Brewing
Co–hosted by Yards Brewing and Triumph, this fest will feature traditional cask-conditioned ales and participation by over 20 local breweries. A few surprises and special guests are also in the works.
1:30pm $45
Winter Adventure Tour of Eastern State Penitentiary and Early Beer Dinner with Stoudt's Brewery @ London Grill
Meet at London Grill and owner Terry McNally and Stoudt’s Brewery owner Carol Stoudt will first take you to Eastern State Penitentiary for a tour of this historic site. Back at London enjoy a three-course dinner with Stoudt’s beers.
Meet the brewer: Chris the Enabler of Philadelphia Brewing @ Good Dog
Chris “the enabler” Morris of Philadelphia Brewing will join us to impart his wisdom on why Kölsch is the beer of the future, and other smart things.
2pm $35
Drie Fonteinen Tasting with Armand Debelder @ Monk's Cafe
We'll be serving Armand's Gueuze, Kriek, Schaersbeek Kriek, Homage (frambozen), and a straight lambic. Armand is a traditional lambic blender who now brews his own lambics for blending. A small snack will be served.
3pm $25
Ladies Beer Tea @ The Belgian Café
There will be unique beers, including a special surprise, paired with a twist on high tea with savories, tea sandwiches, and dessert complimenting the beers.
5pm $20 entrance fee
Mussel Eating Competition. @ ZoT
$100 gift certificate to ZoT for the winner. Half the profits donated to the Red Cross.
5pm PAYG
Authentic German Menu @ The Blue Ox
6pm $85
Highlights from 10 years of Dinners with Michael Jackson @ Monk’s Café
Our dinner will feature six of our favorite pairings from the past 10 years of dinners with Michael Jackson. We are donating $15 from each ticket sale to the National Parkinson's Foundation to honor Michael's lifetime of contributions to the world of beer.
7:05pm no cover; PAYG
T.U.D. - The Last Huzzah of Philly Beer Week @ Fergie’s Pub
Karaoke party with local and transient brewers and the ladies of In Pursuit of Ale. Plus special guest bartenders from the brewing profession serving $3 imperial pints of craft brews on tap. Say Goodbye to all the beer madness with that T.U.D. (Totally Unnecessary Drink)
9pm-1am PAYG
Who Loves It In The Can-Fest 2008 @ Aspen Restaurant
Canned offerings with something for everyone, from Sly Fox Phoenix Dunkle to Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale to good old PBR.
PBW 2008 - Who Is Steve Robeson?
Since I played the suburban sissy and went home early last night, I'm relying on the good lass, Suzy, for notes from her perspective on the Philly Beer Geek championships at Johnny Brenda's. She's not had much waking time (at least quiet and coherent time) to write on her own site, so I'm honored that she took the time to write this for all of you here. This may get posted on the official site eventually, but 'til then hear what she has to say. Enjoy...
Steve Robeson truly is Philly's Beer Geek. Jason Harris said it best with "We're all Philly Beer Geeks." It's true everyone in the room could admit such. Steve, a Telford native, is a regular at Iron Hill in North Wales. He is BJCP certified and an avid homebrewer. I actually don't know what he does for a paycheck, but it should be stand up comedy.
Beer Geeks were selected based on their beer knowledge including technical and pop culture questions, their ability to tell a beer joke, take a beer out on a date, and general enthusiasm and pride for beer as it relates to Philadelphia.
There was also an open forum question that the judges could ask the contestants. I asked Steve to pair a three course meal with local beers. Unfortunately they ran short on time, and had to omit the tasting portion.
Carolyn Smagalski and Jason Harris were great hosts and were much more organized than I could've been. The panel of judges were a humorous and seasoned group for the most part (I've only been in the scene for 5 years now). Bruce Williams of Scotland was hysterical. And I think he was in love with Dell until Dell blew the joke portion of the event.
The Rolling Boil Blues Band was a great end to the night, as Tom Dalldorf of Celebrator and his crew sand spoof songs about our favorite beverage. Johnny Brenda's was the ideal venue (it always is;) for the Beer Geek competition.
Some of the questions included..
1. What mashing procedure is typically done by German Brewers
2. How many notches does a standard 26 mm crown have?
3. Young and old lambics blended together are called?
PBW 2008 - Day 7 Wrap-Up
Day 7 Report
Background: Several things looked like fun to do; grabbed our friend, "The Blonde", and hopped the train yet again into the city.
Where to: Stuck to "the plan." Train to Bridgewater's for Southampton tasting, subway (El) to The Khyber for Pogues and great beer and Triumph for Lew's Lagers, continue on the El to Johnny Brenda's for the Beer Geek championships.
Why: Bridgewater's is becoming my "duh!" bar. As in, if you're travelling through 30th Street Station in Philly, duh!, why wouldn't you stop in for a quick drink and/or a bite at Bridgewater's. As I've said before, I'm no travel expert, but in my travels this is one of the premier spots in transportation hubs for food and drink.The Khyber? Their beer selections have continued to improve and impress over the years. With their no-nonsense atmosphere, and great music too, it's on the short list of must-stops to make while in the Old City neighborhood. On this Day 7, they were offering up two hours of Pogues music to go with the beer specials. Since we couldn't possibly fit in the real, live concert (complete with Shane McGowan) at the Electric Factory, this was a great substitute.
Triumph offered up their tasty and well-done lager styles along with guest lagers from Appalachian, Sly Fox, Stoudt's, Victory, and beyond. And, with Lew working the crowd spreading his message of well made lagers and session beers, this was high on my list of things to do. Plus, with a pay as you go arrangement of $4 pints across the board, that was part of the appeal as well.
But, highest on the list was the Beer Geek Championships at Johnny Brenda's. After passing JB's numerous times in the past, this was finally (FINALLY, I say) my first stop in at this great (GREAT, I say!) neighborhood Philly bar. This is exactly what other cities off the eastern seaboard (northeast, particularly) can not replicate. Denver, Seattle, Los Angeles? Find me a bar with as much character as Johnny Brenda's delivers. From the downstairs restaurant to the upstairs stage and balcony, this is a great venue for food, drink, and music. It represents a lot of what makes pub drinking in Philadelphia unbelievably great.But, on this night, it was about the beer geeks and what they think they know. A stage full of worthy contestants came out, including our Monday Night Tasting pal Dell, and put their knowledge to the test of the celebrity beer judges that came from local haunts and across the country to bestow the title of first ever Philly Beer Geek Champion. Methinks I'll be returning very soon to do a full review.
What to drink: Southampton at Bridgewater's (Secret, Biere de Mars, IPA)...all very good, but the Biere de Mars? oh yeah! Sly Fox Stout, Blue Point Toasted Lager, and Avery New World Porter (first time for me; very well done) at The Khyber. My second experience with Roggen Bock at Triumph. Standard Ale from Sly Fox, cask conditioned at Johnny Brenda's. I'm gonna be looking for this one as long as supplies last...what a great, easy drinking tasty delight!
Who to share a drink with: Spencer from Southampton, Peter from Stockertown, and Beante of Bridgewater's during the Southampton tasting. Great to meet Spencer and especially for Kathleen (Long Islander native) to talk about her visit to the brewery last year with him.Family and friends (group of about eight, or so) met up with us at The Khyber and moved along with us to Triumph and Johnny Brenda's. Didn't run into anyone I knew at The Khyber, but a lot of familiar faces were bouncing around at Triumph (Scoats, The Other Ortino, Jay and Patrick, Ron Barcet and Victory stalwarts Richard and Rick).
Johnny Brenda's didn't pack 'em to the rafters like I expected should happen. But, there was a comfortably-packed crowd of supporters including J.C.'s "driver" Corey from Sly Fox, Sean (and Mo, right?) from The Foodery, hosts/emcees Carolyn Smagalski (the Beer Fox) and Jason Harris (Keystone Homebrew Supply), along with the panel of celebrity judges (Dave Alexander, Tom Dalldorf, Jack Curtin, Larry Horwitz, Suzanne Woods, Carol Stoudt, Bruce Williams, Tom Kehoe)
Reaction: I'd like to talk about how the Rolling Boil Band brought the house down and who the final round came down to. But, once again the train beckoned across town and 6am comes too early. So, we headed out after another successful night on the town.
PBW 2008 - Saturday March 15th Schedule
Here is a slimmed-down view of just the events scheduled for Saturday the 15th. It's one last opportunity to change your mind! I will also denote where I will attempt to be during the day.
I've taken liberties to modify the descriptions for each event to conserve space. As always, refer to the official schedule of record over at PBW 2008 website for complete details.
** Where to find The Brew Lounge on 3/15:**
11am free
5-Mile Run In Pursuit of Hoppiness, concluding @ Dock Street Brewery
Meet Bryan of The Brew Lounge and Suzanne of "In Pursuit of Ale" at the Art Museum for either a 4-mile or 6-mile run through the city concluding with beer and food at Dock Street Brewery.
11am-3pm PAYG
Keggs and Eggs @ South Philadelphia Tap Room
Drink $3 Craft Beers from all over the country and feast on a hearty brunch menu.
12pm–2pm free
Dogfish Head Tasting @ Watson Kunda and Sons, Inc.
1pm, 3:30pm, and 6pm $45
Michael Jackson: The Man and His Legacy @ Penn's Chinese Rotunda and Upper Egyptian Gallery
A panel of four experts, led by Philadelphia's own Don Russell (Joe Sixpack), will taste a selection of beers brewed especially for this tribute weekend, reminisce about Michael Jackson's life and times, and reflect on his influence in the Philadelphia craft beer world. Each session will begin with a tutored tasting hosted by our panel of experts, followed by the two-hour open tasting of dozens more beers in the Chinese Rotunda, accompanied by beer-friendly foods.
1pm-4pm last tour starts 3:30 free
Taste and tour @ Flying Fish Brewery
Come on over to the Jersey side for a tapping of some limited-edition beers in addition to our regular lineup. No appointment needed.
2pm Free
Beer Chili Cook-off @ The Khyber
There is only one rule: Your chili must contain beer. There is limited entry space so if you think you have what it takes, enter in person at The Khyber no later than 3/13! Prizes supplied by Sly Fox, Philadelphia Brewing Co. and Cantina Los Caballitos. Special guest judges and draft specials all day!
4pm-6pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Mark Hummel of Legacy Brewing @ The Standard Tap
Meet the brewer night featuring Brewmaster, Mark Hummel from Legacy.
5pm-7pm PAYG
Lambic Beer Happy Hour @ ZoT
$2 off all bottles of Lambic. Beers from Oud Beersel, Floris, St. Louis, Boon, Cherish, Unibroue, Cantillon, Chapeau De Troch, La Choulette.
5pm PAYG
Beer pairings with Special Irish Menu @ The Blue Ox
6:30pm $55
Beer Gone Wild! @ Tria’s Fermentation School
For Lambic Lovers only! Join Armand Debelder, head of Belgium’s Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen, and importer Dan Shelton for a rare chance to lean about these funky fermented treasures.
8pm PAYG
Flying Dog meets Good Dog @ Good Dog
Flying Dog Brewing gets a leg up at Good Dog. Two sixtels of Flying Dog's finest. Beers TBD
9pm PAYG
Beware the Ides of March @ Grey Lodge Pub
Among Modern Day Bards of Beer joining us will be Spenser Neibur from Southampton, Suzy Woods from Sly Fox, Chris LaPierre from Iron Hill, Casey Hughes from Flying Fish, Steve "Red Steve" Mashington from Yards, Mike Fava from Dock Street, Nick Johnson from Troegs, and more.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
PBW 2008 - Day 6 Wrap-Up
Day 6 Report
Background: After a peaceful and restful night off on Tuesday (though, I hear that I missed quite the impromptu after party at The Belgian Cafe; brewers, writers, distributors, owners descended...word spread like wildfire!), I was primed to get back into the PBW game on Wednesday. Again, plan was to take Amtrak train into the city via 30th street. (Remember my tip about Bridgewater's, right?)
Where to: Dinner and North Coast at South Philly Tap Room (SPTR). Meet up with the Brewers Tour (aka "Kick the Sixtel"). Wound up with them on the latter part of their tour at Nodding Head (BPA); Fergie's (Nugget Nectar); and McGillin's (last stop; all beers)
Why: North Coast has so many very fine beers, 2 of which were on CO2 (Le Merle and Pranqster) and 1 on nitro (Old Rasputin, oh baby oh yeah). Plus, the food and environment at SPTR is so very fine also (is that that the best descriptor I can find today?), I wanted to make sure that I made at least one stop here during PBW. Then, meeting up with the brewers? Well, I guess I gotta say that they're a very fine and way fun bunch, that any pub crawl with them is bound to be a blast.
What to drink: The Old Rasputin was the extremely perfect way to finish our dinner at SPTR. Oh, and Le Merle had me calling for More, but not on this night. The atmosphere seemed only to be getting charged up when we left a little after 8pm with their Beer Nerd Quizzo about to begin. Nodding Head's BPA was such an easy, delightful drinker that I had two (hey, I had to do my thing to help kick the sixtel so we could move on!). The Nugget Nectar at Fergie's kicked so quickly that I didn't have a chance to get my own. No worries, though, since Patty and I were the first to arrive at McGillin's where we promptly ordered a Nugget Nectar and Satellite Stout (Dock Street) that we put down quickly before heading back to the train and home. Or, wait, was that a Franziskaner Hefeweizen that we had time for at Bridgewater's before the train? Yup...I mean, what would any reasonable person do on a PBW night out with 11 minutes to spare before the train?!
Who to share a drink with: Let's see, in the last few minutes before leaving SPTR, we ran into Sean from The Foodery (NoLib) and had a short but pleasant conversation. Too bad he wasn't there a bit earlier, but they came for the trivia. We also chatted for a few minutes with a group of very IPA-like ladies reveling in their North Coast brews. The Brewers Tour? Yikes! Let's see...(in no particular order) many local brew crews (I won't list them all, you know who they are), Buhler, Mini-Mash, Russell, Woods and ladies of IPA, Steve (aka BA 'JerseyDevil')....once again, I didn't take notes, so I'm sure there are some I'm leaving out.Reaction: We only made it to the last three of the planned stops on The Tour. But, if these three stops were indicative of the way the other stops went, then these brewers are rock stars and can drink like it! The turnout at Nodding Head, Fergie's, and McGillin's was phenomenal; check out the pictures. With Gordo on the cowbell, this was one tightly-run pub crawl. The efficiency with which this crowd was moving through the sixtels, then the city streets, would make a German proud!
Of course, you can't tell exactly who was there specifically for the PBW event and who was there just because. For example, McGillin's had live music downstairs and quite a full house and a bunch of confused-looking conventioneers upstairs where the PBW event was being hosted. I believe that's one thing that will contribute to the difficulty of gauging the success of PBW. Not that we need to have exact numbers, some of it will turn into more of an anecdotal analysis. But, when the event does not close the establishment to the general public it becomes difficult to determine how successful the event was. For example, tastings that I've been to now at Bridgewater's and SPTR seemed to be attended more by the "typical" bar crowd for that given day/time drinking their typical drinks and it was hard to determine how many people were aware of or there for the special event or PBW. I wonder if other places, like For Pete's Sake, had similar experiences. Of course, it's not to say that the beer doesn't eventually get drunk.
PBW 2008 - Real Ale Festival, casks finalized
Now that I've cleared my drool (pretty picture, eh?) and purchased my ticket, you should review the list and do the same. The fine folks at Yards have forwarded the most finalized list that I've seen so far for the Real Ale Festival on Sunday at Triumph. Sorry, Drie Fonteinen will just have to wait. Now the only question is: brunch at The Drafting Room or brunch at Fork? Hm, decisions...
| Allentown/Bethlehem Brew Works | Pawn Shop Porter |
| Bells Brewing Company | Two Hearted Ale |
| Bells Brewing Company | Java Stout |
| Gritty Mcduff's | Best Brown Ale |
| Climax Brewing Company | ESB |
| Clipper City Brewing Company | Saison |
| Dock Street Brewing Company | Gold Stock Ale |
| Flying Fish Brewing Company | Bourbon Espresso Porter |
| General Lafayette Pub and Brewery | Red Velvet |
| Iron Hill Brewing Company | Chocolate Stout |
| Iron Hill Brewing Company | Irish Red |
| Lancaster Brewing Company | Red Rooster |
| Legacy Brewing Company | Noreaster |
| Manayunk Brewing Company | Kölsch |
| Nodding Head | Wee Heavy |
| Nodding Head | IPA |
| One Guy Brewing Company | Molly's Best Brown Ale |
| Rock Bottom (King of Prussia) | Prussia's Pride IPA |
| Sly Fox Brewing Company | Seamus Red Ale |
| Southampton Brewing Company | Irish Red Ale |
| Stewarts Brewing Company | McBride's Strong Ale |
| Stoudt's Brewing Company | Scarlet Lady ESB |
| Triumph-New Hope | Bitter |
| Triumph-Philly | Scotch Ale |
| Triumph-Princeton | Gothic Ale |
| Tröegs Brewing Company | Hopback |
| Victory Brewing Company | Hop Wallop |
| Voodoo Brewery | Big Black Voodoo Daddy |
| Yards Brewing Company | ESA |
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
PBW 2008 - Friday March 14th Schedule
Here is a slimmed-down view of just the events scheduled for Friday the 14th. It's one last opportunity to change your mind! I will also denote where I will attempt to be during the day.
I've taken liberties to modify the descriptions for each event to conserve space. As always, refer to the official schedule of record over at PBW 2008 website for complete details.
** Where to find The Brew Lounge on 3/14:**
1pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Rob Tod of Allagash Brewing Co. @ The Belgian Cafe
Rob has been brewing traditional and experimental Belgian beers for over a decade.
4pm-6pm free
Meet the Brewer: Luc “Bobo” Van Mechelen of Chimay @ The Beer Yard
Come meet Luc “Bobo” Van Mechelen, regional sales manager, who has worked with Chimay for over 25 years. Sample Chimay and talk to Bobo about the monks and their work.
4:30pm-6:30pm Free
Brewers Happy Hour @ Nodding Head Brewery
Sam Calagione (Dogfish Head), Adam Avery (Avery Brewing), Bill Covaleski (Victory), Tom Kehoe (Yards), and our own Gordon Grubb offer up some special brews for a Friday Happy Hour extravaganza. Stop by and chat with these phenomenal brewers, as well as some other special guests, as they swap stories about who is crazier, Sam or Adam.
5pm-7pm PAYG
The Good, the Black, and the Funky @ Tria Cafe
Rob Tod of Allagash Brewing Company in Portland, Maine will present their White, Dubbel, Tripel, and Four as well as rare treats such as Black Ale and Interlude.
5pm-7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Stoudt’s @ The Standard Tap
Featuring Brewmaster John Matson from Stoudt's.
5pm–7pm PAYG
Firkin Friday @ The Khyber
Fresh cask ale for happy hour.
5pm-7pm PAYG
Lancaster Brewing Happy Hour @ Bridgewater's (30th Street Station)
6pm-8pm $45
Beer and Cheese pairing with Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant @ DiBruno Brothers.
Chris LaPierre, Head Brewer of Iron Hill’s West Chester location will select six handcrafted beers, including his Cannibal, Saison and Quadruppel, to perfectly match with DiBruno’s cheeses.
6pm PAYG
Heavy Seas Pint Night @ The Sidecar Bar & Grille
Specials on Heavy Seas pints
6:30pm-9pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Bobo of Chimay @ Teresa’s Next Door
Enjoy Chimay bottles and drafts with the man who brought the famous Trappist ale to Philly. Special Trappist Menu served all day paired with the Red, White and Blue!
6:30pm $50
The Belgian Expert @ Tria’s Fermentation School
Taste Belgian brews with Belgian beer legend Don Feinberg, co-founder of both Vanberg & DeWulf importers (Saison Dupont and many others) and Brewery Ommegang.
6:30pm $95 per guest; $85 for Museum members. Business attire.
A Tribute to Michael Jackson @ University of Pennsylvania's Harrison Auditorium, Chinese Rotunda, Upper Egyptian Gallery.
Tributes, dinner buffet, and craft beers inspired by the late British beer writer, Michael Jackson. This gala evening will celebrate his legacy through reminiscences, a dinner buffet featuring many of his favorite foods, and of course, lots of great beer. In what promises to be a special measure of his preeminence, we have invited brewers and distributors to either brew a beer inspired by Michael's writing and encouragement, or to bring an existing product that bears the signs of his direct influence, either way, a special measure of the man and his work.
Meet the Weasel @ St. Stephen's Green
Join Ron Lindenbusch "The Beer Weasel" from Lagunitas Brewing Co. for tastings of the best the west has to offer.
7pm PAYG
The Bishop Gets Smutty @ Bishop's Collar
Join Kevin Love of Smuttynose Brewing Co. for tastings of the entire Smutty family.
Cask 'n' Cans night with Sly Fox and Southampton @ Good Dog
Dynamic brotherly duo, Spencer and Ryan Neibur will be on the scene pushing a firkin of Sullivan’s red ale, named for the Publik house’s owner. Sly Fox will join them with a firkin of their own red, Seamus. Sly Fox Oatmeal Stout and Southampton Double White will also be poured. Sly Fox cans will be featured at half price!
7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Blue Point Brewing @ South Philadelphia Tap Room
Come speak with Blue Point brewmaster Mark Burford of Long Island, N.Y., and drink his beers and firkin. We will be pouring No Apologies IPA and Oatmeal Stout on draft as well as the Rasta Rye Pale Ale off the firkin.
7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Tom Kehoe of Yards Brewing @ The Belgian Cafe
Join Tom Kehoe, Tim Roberts, Frank Winslow and the rest of the Yards staff for a meet and greet. Yards will be pouring a firkin of cask-conditioned Extra Special Ale.
7pm-9pm
Franziskaner Friday @ Finn McCool's
7pm PAYG
Fussball Championship @ ZoT
Sign up for bragging rights. Pairs and singles knockout competition. Play darts or backgammon while waiting for the table.
9pm–1am PAYG
Happy Hour @ The Blue Ox
Special Irish Menu & Catch 22, 1/2 price appetizers and live entertainment
PBW 2008 - We're Halfway There!
Half-way into Philly Beer Week 2008, I've got a mid-term wrap-up for you. While it's nearly impossible to cover every event, short of calling each establishment and getting their reactions, here's a short listing of what I've seen myself and heard from others. Shine on you crazy kids, we've got 5 more days to go!
Remember, you can always go back to my Philly Beer Week Index, which gets updated at least two, sometimes more, times a day.
From my first-hand perspective:
Others have told me:
While I still believe that there didn't have to be this many events scheduled for the very first year of this unproven undertaking to be a huge success, I do believe that things are going reasonably well and bodes well for next year's installment. But, there's an important lesson to be learned along the way here, especially for those who bemoan the overwhelming number of events. Philly Beer Week is what you make it; what it means to you. If you went to one tasting in the suburbs and had a great time, great. If you went to 16 events across the region, congratulations. But, no one is keeping score. You'll get no beer points and no one will recognize your accomplishment if you make it to 5 events every day.
It's the same the rest of the year. We don't go to each and every event there is. We get to what we can get to. We pick and choose based on our tendencies and our wallets. Somehow, we make it through the rest of the year just fine.
What also is important is that you find something to do, hopefully a new experience, and you enjoy yourself. And chat up the bartenders, brewers, owners, distributors, journalists, waiters, and anyone else that should hear what a great time we're all having with this spectacular "Imperial" week. Let them know that you appreciate the efforts that they went to in order to bring you a special beer, unique food, an all-around memorable experience. Make them want to do it again next year, and the year after, and...
...on to Day 6...
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
PBW 2008 - Day 5 Wrap-Up
Day 5 Report
Background: Even God rested. Though, he made it through 6 days before he rested. Then again, he (she?) is God so if I made it 4 days through PBW before taking a breather I should feel okay about that I suppose. Ah, no worries. Come tomorrow morning, we're only halfway and there's still a lot of fun stuff to come.
Where to: What did I do instead? Hm, let's see. Went to the chiropractor, took the dogs for a walk, had a nice dinner at home with Patty, caught up with some desk work, and hit the sack early for a change.
Why: Cuz...I already splained.
What to drink: Water.
Who to share a drink with: I'm leaving that up to all of you out there; we'll catch up with each other real soon.
Reaction: You tell me. What did you do on this fine Day 5 of PBW 2008? Meet 'n' Greets? The Whip Tavern event with J.C.? (not that's not a second biblical reference in one posting!) Tria? There were around 40 events to choose from.
PBW 2008 - Thursday March 13th Schedule
Here is a slimmed-down view of just the events scheduled for Thursday the 13th. It's one last opportunity to change your mind! I will also denote where I will attempt to be during the day.
I've taken liberties to modify the descriptions for each event to conserve space. As always, refer to the official schedule of record over at PBW 2008 website for complete details.
** Where to find The Brew Lounge on 3/13:**
All day pay as you go
Two Dollar Draft Day @ Rock Bottom Brewery
4pm-8pm PAYG
Lagunitas Brewery @ Grace Tavern
Craft Brews from Petaluma, Calif.
4pm-7pm
Germanic Happy Hour @ Society Hill Hotel
Featuring Franziskaner and Spaten Optimator draft. Sponsored by Origlio Beverage.
5pm PAYG
Blue Point Leads Here @ The Sidecar Bar and Grille
Blue Point brewery, from Long Island, NY will join us for a night of fine crafted beer.
5pm-7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Philadelphia Brewing Co. @ The Standard Tap
The Standard Tap is hosting a meet the brewers night featuring Brewmasters, Chris Morris, Josh Ervine, John Rehm and Dean Browne from Philadelphia Brewing Company.
5pm-7pm
Drink with the Pogues @ The Khyber
Two hours of The Pogues music, specials on Sly Fox Stout and Guinness bottles.
5pm–7pm
Foodery Homebrew Night @ The Foodery
Watch us brew a batch of beer while enjoying free samples of previous homebrews.
5pm-8pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Sierra Nevada @ London Grill
Terence Sullivan of Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will be on hand to discuss the history and growth of Sierra Nevada at one of the oldest Sierra Nevada Pale Ale draught accounts in Philadelphia.
5:30pm $35
The Avery Experience @ Monk’s Café
Five flights of three beers.
5:30pm $30
Once Upon A Nation/Tippler’s Tour @ Independence Living History Center
Enjoy traditional drinks and a sip of 18th-century history at Colonial and modern-day watering holes as your Colonial guide shares light-hearted tales of the taverns of old.
6pm free
History Lecture and Conversation @ Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant
Learn about the history of craft brewing in Philadelphia with Beer Historian Rich Wagner.
6pm PAYG
Fairmount Beer Tour @ London Grill
Kick off this exciting excursion through one of the city's coolest neighborhoods at London Grill with Terence Sullivan of Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Terence will be on hand to discuss the history and growth of Sierra Nevada at one of the oldest Sierra Nevada Pale Ale draught account in Philadelphia.
6pm $95
Great Local Beer Reception and Dinner @ White Dog Café
This past October, six local breweries won medals at the Great American Beer Festival. Come celebrate the winning brews of Iron Hill, Stoudt's, Tröegs, Sly Fox, Victory, and McKenzie Brewhouse paired with local seasonal cuisine. An hour-long beer and hors d’oeuvres reception with the brewers, upstairs in Judy’s house, will be followed by a 5-course dinner, served with award winning beers.
6pm–8pm $30
Penn Distributors Beer Sampling @ The Blue Ox
Over 30 different types of Beer. Limited to the first 150. Free buffet.
6pm-9pm
Chimay night @ ZoT
Luc “Bobo” Van Mechelen will talk about Chimay and its products. There will tastings of the beers and the cheese, followed by a quiz with prizes, including 1.5L bottles of Chimay Grand Cru.
6pm reception in the bar; 6:30pm event in the main dining room $95
"He Said Beer, She Said Wine” Book Launch @ Nineteen Restaurant (XIX)
Five courses with beer and wine pairings. Book launch event for “He Said Beer, She Said Wine,” with authors Marnie Old, wine educator and consultant and Sam Calagione, owner of Dogfish Head Craft Brews. The audience gets to vote on which one they think pairs better with each course. At the end of the evening, the winning beverage will be announced. Autographed books will also be available for sale for $25.
6pm-7:30pm $30
Extreme Beers with Tony Forder of Ale Street News @ Tavern 17
Ticket holders can taste the six featured brews of the evening while learning more about them from the renowned Tony Forder. Each beer will be uniquely paired with a menu item created by the culinary team at Tavern 17.
6pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Tröegs Brewing @ McGillin's Olde Ale House
Meet these Mechanicsburg natives who have been handcrafting world-class beers combining traditional English brewing techniques with the eclecticism of new American brewing.
6pm-10pm PAYG
Pilsner Gala @ Triumph Brewing
Beer writer Lew Bryson and head brewer Jay Misson host a tasting of pilsners from Triumph, Stoudt's, Sly Fox, and more, with a menu of authentic "schmankerl," German beer hall snacks.
6:30pm $50
Old Beer? Great Beer! @ Tria’s Fermentation School
Pay a visit to the beer cellar with international beer expert Stephen Beaumont as he explores the ins and outs, pros and cons of aging ales and lagers.
7pm-9pm free
Homebrew Tasting @ Brew Your Own Beer
This evening will be a chance to meet other beer and winemakers. Whatever you bring will be shared with others. Expect a wide variety of beers brewed to style guidelines and others defying definition. Anticipate an assortment of too-young and well-aged wines. No program, no lectures, just good company in the form of like-minded individuals enjoying their hobbies.
7pm (doors open); 8pm-10pm (competition); 10:15pm (Tom Dalldorf & The Rolling Boil Blues Band); $5 at the door
1st Annual Philly Beer Geek Finals Competition @ Johnny Brenda's
Do you have what it takes to become Philly Beer Geek 2008? Jason Harris of Keystone Homebrew and Carolyn Smagalski, Beer Fox at BellaOnline present the 1st Annual Philly Beer Geek Finals Competition 2008. Registered Qualifying Semi-Finalists compete for a zappin’ grand prize worth more than $1,000! Our illustrious panel of judges - Carol Stoudt of Stoudt’s Brewing, Adamstown; Tom Dalldorf of Celebrator Beer News, Berkeley; Suzanne Woods of Philly’s In Pursuit of Ale Women’s Beer Club; Larry Horwitz of Iron Hill Brewery, North Wales; Dave Alexander of the Brickskeller, Washington, D.C., Jack Curtin, Philly Beer writer; and Tom Kehoe of Yards – will challenge competitors with beer trivia, taste tests, beer philosophy, and more to select the individual who shows the greatest universal knowledge and passion for Philadelphia beer. Grand prize: gift certificates, merchandise and cash worth more than $1,000 and an engraved plaque announcing the winner as Philly Beer Geek 2008.
7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: The Flying Dog Brewery @ Bishop's Collar
Meet the mutts from The Flying Dog Brewery and sample all the beers in the litter.
7pm PAYG
Meet the Brewer: Iron Hill Brewery @ Good Dog
Chris LaPierre from Iron Hill in West Chester will be pouring a firkin of his world famous IPA,