Friday, June 30, 2017

Beer Event Calendar: Philadelphia & beyond: What To Do in July 2017

Ready for the second half of 2017? Your brewers and bar owners are. Here's what they've got lined up for us thus far. Little light by our standards, but as the dog days of summer approach, perhaps not too surprising. More to come on the weekly calendar updates.

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
Sat. 7/1; 1 p.m.-8 p.m. — IPA, Champagne & Rosé Block Party at Hawthornes Café in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 7/3; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 7/6; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Coppertail Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 7/7; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Xmas In July at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 7/9; 12 p.m. — Harpoon Sriracha Blonde: The Return at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 7/10; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 7/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 7/11; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/14; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Sat. 7/15; 12 p.m. — 2nd Anniversary at Crime & Punishment Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 7/16; 11:30 a.m. — Brunch of Thrones Quizzo at City Tap House-Logan in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 7/16; 12 p.m. — Game of Thrones Premier Party with Ommegang at The Institute in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 7/17; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 7/18; 7 p.m.-11 p.m. — Secret Lair Burlesque at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 7/18; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 7/19; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Weyerbacher Wednesday at Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 7/24; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 7/25; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 7/25; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Welcome, Von Trapp at Tria Taproom in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/28; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Mon. 7/31; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]

after July in Philadelphia
N/A


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 7/6; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Duck-Rabbit Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Devils Backbone Happy Hour at Dog and Bull in Croydon, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Web Slinger IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 7/9; 11 a.m. — Second Anniversary Party at Sterling Pig in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Golden Goat IPL Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Blue Moon Paint The Glass at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/15; 3 p.m.-8 p.m. — Gobletstock 3 at Broken Goblet Brewery in Bristol, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/15; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — 101 Years Later: The Shark Attack IPA Event at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company in Cherry Hill, NJ [$PAYG]
Sun. 7/16; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — North of the Wall Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Complimentary Beer and Wine Tasting at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 7/20; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Weyerbacher Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/21; All day — Belgian Independence Day at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/22; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. — Club Barrel Brew Day 2017 at Keystone Homebrew Supply in Montgomeryville, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 7/28; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Firestone Walker Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]

after July in Philadelphia's close suburbs
Sat. 8/5; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Pints for Pets at Double Nickel Brewing Company in Pennsauken, NJ [$PAYG]


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 7/1; 12 p.m.-9 p.m. — Hopfoolery #1 DIPA Release at Hijinx Brewing Company in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/1; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Day of 1000 Beers at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/1; 12 p.m. — Saturday Morning Cartoons with Evil Genius at Molly Pitcher Brewing Company in Carlisle, PA [$PAYG]
Tue. 7/4; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. — Red, White, and Brew Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/6; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — SingleCut Tap Take Over at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/6; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Farmhouse Ales at Free Will Brewing Company in Lahaska, Pa. [$15]
Fri. 7/7; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Good Libations: CMBC's 6th Year Anniversary Bash at Cape May Brewing Company in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Lagunitas Tap Invasion at Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 4:30 p.m. — Lupu-Luau Launch Event at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 11:30 a.m. — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 11:30 a.m. — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 4:30 p.m. — Lupu-Luau Launch Event at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/7; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Free Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Sun. 7/9; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. — Sour & Stinky Fest at The Fridge in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Pop-Up Beer Garden at World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Beers of Germany at Free Will Brewing Company in Lahaska, Pa. [$15]
Thu. 7/13; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Vault Brewing & Kebab Pairing at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/13; 11 a.m. — Collaboration Nation at Two Stones Pub in Wilmington, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/14; 5 p.m. — Cherry Blob Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/14; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Free Tasting at Goshen Beverage in West Chester, Pa. [$Free]
Sun. 7/16; 11 a.m. — Hops 'n' Honey Brunch at Argilla Brewing Company in Newark, Del. [$PAYG]
Tue. 7/18; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Fredo's Pilsner Release Party at Two Rivers Brewing Company in Easton, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting at Funck's in Palmyra, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/20; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Dark Beers at Free Will Brewing Company in Lahaska, Pa. [$15]
Fri. 7/21; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Belgian Independence Day Celebration at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/21; 11:30 a.m. — Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 7/22; 12 p.m. — Christmas In July at Mispillion River Brewing Company in Milford, Del. [$PAYG]
Tue. 7/25; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Krampus in July Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 7/27; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Barrel-aged and Sour Beers at Free Will Brewing Company in Lahaska, Pa. [$15]
Fri. 7/28; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Fat Tire Friday: Funk & Resin Edition at Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 7/28; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Avery's 3rd Birthday Tap Takeover at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]

after July in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Thu. 8/3; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works in Bethlehem, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 8/5; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Bark + Beerfest at Stoudts Brewing Company in Adamstown, Pa. [$10-$12]


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Sat. 7/29; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — SmörgåsBeer at American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia, Pa. [$10-$35]

after July in Philadelphia
Fri. 8/11 & Sat. 8/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brooklyn Brewery Mash presents Philly Beer Mansion at The Woodlands Mansion & Cemetery  in Philadelphia, Pa. [$55-$65]


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 7/8; 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. — Bike and Beers at Flying Fish Brewing Company in Somerdale, NJ [$45-$50]
Mon. 7/10; 7 p.m. — Cigar & Beer Dinner at Dog and Bull in Croydon, Pa. [$55]
Tue. 7/25; 7 p.m. — Hawaiian Luau Christmas Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ [$65]

after July in Philadelphia's close suburbs
N/A


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 7/1; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting Festival at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pa. [$28]
Fri. 7/7; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Hops 'n' Clocks at National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, Pa. [$15-$30]
Sat. 7/8; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Craft Beer Picnic Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. [$29.95]
Wed. 7/12; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Summer Celebration Dinner & Beer Pairing Under The Stars at Red Sky Café in Camp Hill, Pa. [$65]
Wed. 7/12; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Rare Beer Tasting at Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pa. [$100]
Wed. 7/19; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Firestone Walker Limited Release tasting at The Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$30]
Thu. 7/20; 6:30 p.m. — Beer Dinner at The Millworks in Harrisburg, Pa. [$60]
Fri. 7/21; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting Festival at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pa. [$28]
Sat. 7/22; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. — Pints For Pups at Jim Dietrich Park in Muhlenberg, Pa. [$20-$75]
Sat. 7/22; 11:30 a.m. — Brewmaster’s Beer Brunch at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. [$35]
Sat. 7/29; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beers for a Cure Craft Beer Fest at Maxwell's On Main in Doylestown, Pa. [$50]
Mon. 7/31; 5:30 p.m. — Merchant du Vin Beer & Food Tasting  at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. [$37.50]

after July in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Wed. 8/2; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Beer Pairing Dinner at Locust Lane Craft Brewery in Malvern, Pa. [$40]
Fri. 8/4; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting Festival at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pa. [$28]
Sat. 8/12; 12 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Wilmington Downtown Brew Fest at Chelsea Tavern in Wilmington, Del. [$35-$50]






© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 27, 2017

4 favorite beers of last week (June 19-25)

The much-anticipated Root Down is now open in Phoenixville and things are looking (and tasting) so good that they landed two beers on last week's best-of list. Here's an index of all beers that I've covered in the past on these weekly hit lists.

(While I know absolutely nothing about HBO series, Game Of Thrones, I know this beer well enough now to know it deserves a place on this list.)

~ Game of Thrones Bend The Knee Golden Ale (9%), by Brewery Ommegang (Cooperstown, NY)
    I've no shame that I don't know one single thing about Game of Thrones (no hater, though). What I do know is that from my recall, this may be the best (or at least my personal favorite) in the series of GoT-themed beers put out by Brewery Ommegang since Take The Black Stout. This one is a fine sipper that drinks like a Belgian Tripel (sweet and a touch of hop bitterness) and, at 9%, is probably better suited for easy-chair drinking rather than walking around Eastern State Penitentiary. That's where the picture above was taken during the wildly-popular, and smartly conceived and located, event in Philadelphia to mark the release of the new beer. The prison is a magnificent backdrop for many such events, and it played particularly well here for the brewery and the show.


(You'll be hard-pressed to find a bad beer on this list at Root Down; 3LR rises to the top.)

~ 3LR-Three-legged Rabbit Altbier (5.2%), by Root Down Brewing Company (Phoenixville, Pa.)
    This is an unapologetically beer low on hops. So much so that they named it Three-legged Rabbit. Why, you ask? Well, what does a three-legged rabbit not do? Hop, duh. This is a beautiful showcase of a wonderful style indigenous to Düsseldorf, Germany and how a malt-forward beer should drink and one that I hope to see on Root Down's menu more often than not — and, hopefully, on an increasing number of other brewery lists as well.


(Stay Gold tastes just as good a couple days later from the crowler as it does on tap at the source.)

~ Stay Gold Saison (5.2%), by Root Down Brewing Company (Phoenixville, Pa.)
    My second visit to Root Down was after a three-hour lawn mowing session and I made a nice little session out of this refreshing Saison at the brewery. Crisp, dry, spicy and just a tick over 5% makes this another beer that I hope to see more often than not at this new Phoenixville brewery and its ultra-comfortable taproom.


(HopBack a rock star in the year-round lineup at Tröegs.)

~ HopBack Amber Ale (6%), by Tröegs Independent Brewing (Hershey, Pa.)
    I went to the Pour House in Exton last week when the Tröegs team was debuting its Nimble Giant DIPA. Know where I got detoured along the way? It was the first Tröegs beer on the draft list and one that I'm fearing is losing space on the shelf with absolutely no just cause. Such a perfect and tasty balance of malt (yeah, some Crystal, what's wrong with that?) and enough Cascade, Nugget, Willamette hops to get your attention. Don't take this beer for granted.


Click back here for an index of all beers that I've covered in the past.




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 26, 2017

Some of the best beers opened at The Brew Lounge

It's turned out to be a Tuesday thing. So tomorrow morning I'll again share a weekly review of the beers I enjoyed most in the previous week. Looks like roughly 4-5 get the nod each week thus far. I'm enjoying it as a way to look back on just how productive (and enjoyable) was the prior week. Also, a peek in to where I'd been and what I found along the way.

Hopefully, you're getting something out of them as well. Because I guarantee you will not be finding these anywhere on Untappd...or Untapped...or however you misspell it.

I'll keep a running index here of all beers that have made my honor roll (if this continues to go well, maybe I should come with an official name for it). Maybe it's my own Brew Lounge Taps. I'm not terribly creative, so that aspect may take some time.

September 25-October 1, 2017
    ExPortation by Sierra Nevada (Chico, Calif.)

September 18-September 24, 2017
    Brunch Coffee Kolsch by 1718 Ocracoke Brewing (Ocracoke, NC)
    Tasty IPA by 21st Amendment (San Leandro & San Francisco, Calif.)
    Kiwi's Playhouse by Brooklyn Brewery (New York, NY)
    Oude Geuze Boon Black Label by Brouwerij Boon (Lambeek, Belgium)
    Märzen by Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery (Farmville, NC)
    Dallas Sucks Pale Ale by Weyerbacher Brewing Company (Easton, Pa.)

September 4-September 17, 2017
    Mosaic Promise by Founders Brewing Company (Grand Rapids, Mich.)
    Impromptu Dance Party, Vol.1 by Free Will Brewing Company (Perkasie, Pa.)

August 28-September 3, 2017
    Common Sense Lager by Dock Street Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    nicethings IPA by Dock Street Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)

August 21-August 27, 2017
    Apex Special IPA by Bear Republic Brewing Company (Cloverdale, Calif.)
    Hipster Catnip by La Cabra Brewing (Berwyn, Pa.)
    Zettle Hefeweizen by La Cabra Brewing (Berwyn, Pa.)

August 7-August 20, 2017
    White by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    Samichlaus by Brauerei Schloss Eggenberg (Graz, Austria)
    Kiwi's Playhouse by Brooklyn Brewery (New York, NY)
    Bloody Butcher Appalachian Grisette by Fonta Flora Brewery (Morganton, NC)
    Hitchpost Gueuze by Natty Greene's Brewing Company (Greensboro, NC)
    Center Cut Robust Porter by Natty Greene's Brewing Company (Greensboro, NC)

July 31-August 6, 2017
    Chocolate Cherry Imperial Stout by The Brew Lounge (in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Puddlers Row ESB by Conshohocken Brewing Company (Conshohocken, Pa.)
    Saison Vos by Sly Fox Brewing Company (Pottstown, Pa.)
    Pynk by Yards Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Clean Living Saison by Levante Brewing Company (West Chester, Pa.)

July 10-July 30, 2017
    Uísque Fumaça by 2SP Brewing Company (Aston, Pa.)
    Ghost Station Berliner Weisse w/ Raspberries by Crime & Punishment Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Sofiya by Crime & Punishment Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Dark Mild by Hoots Beer Co. (Winston-Salem, NC)
    Sorachi Grace Saison by La Cabra Brewing Company (Berwyn, Pa.)
    Frican Saison by Mad Chef Craft Brewing (East Petersburg, Pa.)
    Supplication by Russian River Brewing Company (Santa Rosa, Ca.)
    SRT Ale by Sly Fox Brewing Company (Pottstown & Phoenixville, Pa.)
    Old Horizontal [2005] by Victory Brewing Company (Downingtown, Parkesburg, & Kennett Square, Pa.)
    Week's Work English Mild by Wise Man Brewing Company (Winston-Salem, NC)

July 3-July 9, 2017
    Monster Ale [2005], by Brooklyn Brewery (Brooklyn, NY)
    Rye Bread, by Urban Village Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)

June 26-July 2, 2017
    Galaxy Dust IPA, by Barebottle Brewing Company (San Francisco, Calif.)
    Oktoberfest Elchland, by Straub Brewery (St. Marys, Pa.)
    Key Lime Pie Gose, by Westbrook Brewing Company (Mount Pleasant, SC)

June 19-25, 2017
    Game of Thrones Bend The Knee Golden Ale, by Brewery Ommegang (Cooperstown, NY)
    3LR-Three-legged Rabbit Altbier, by Root Down Brewing Company (Phoenixville, Pa.)
    Stay Gold Saison, by Root Down Brewing Company (Phoenixville, Pa.)
    HopBack Amber Ale, by Tröegs Independent Brewing (Hershey, Pa.)

June 5-18, 2017
    Baby Bob, by 2SP Brewing Company (Aston, Pa.)
    Windfall, by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    Golden IPA, by Dock Street Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Cuvée de Yunk, by Manayunk Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    Trauger Pilsner, by Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company (Croydon, Pa.)

May 29-June 4, 2017
    Pick Your Own, by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    Simplex, by Brouwerij De Ranke (Dottignies, Belgium)
    Lot 215 IPA, by Evolution Craft Brewing Company (Salisbury, Md.)
    Northern Liberties Lager, by Sly Fox Brewing Company (Pottstown, Pa.)

May 22-28, 2017
    Cecilia Saison, by La Cabra Brewing Company (Berwyn, Pa.)
    Grisette Farmhouse Ale, by Manor Hill Brewing Company (Ellicott City, Md.)
    Dussel Duck Altbier, by Ruddy Duck Brewery (Solomons, Md.)

May 15-21, 2017
    SeaQuench Ale, by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (Milton, Del.)
    Community Kölsch, by Free Will Brewing Company (Perkasie, PA)
    Wit Or Wit Out, by St. Benjamin Brewing Company (Philadelphia)
    Meta Shepherd, by Second District Brewing Company (Philadelphia)
    Cold Drip Doppio (Wigle Whiskey barrel-aged), by Spoonwood Brewing Company (Bethel Park, PA)

May 8-14, 2017
    Hell or High Watermelon Wheat, by 21st Amendment Brewing (San Francisco/San Leandro)
    Imperial Coffee & Cigarettes, by Cellarmaker Brewing (San Francisco)
    Citraison, by Faction Brewing (Alameda)
    Hitachino Nest Ancient Nipponia aged in Red Wine Barrels, by Kiuchi Brewery (Japan)
    Ashbury Alt, by Magnolia Brewing (San Francisco)
    The 49er, by Thirsty Bear Brewing (San Francisco)




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 23, 2017

June 2017: News update, part 2

A smattering of this and that to bring you up-to-speed from the last week or so of interesting news.

~ Betting this will be a better launch than the previous occupant's. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Rather odd, yet somehow not surprising, story. [Link to RateBeer.com]

~ Interesting bit of development in Ardmore. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Been a fan of Scott Smith and his East End brewery in Pittsburgh for quite a while. Here's an interesting story from him. [Link to East End Brewing's website]

~ Wow! Now that didn't take long. [Link to The Town Dish]

~ Lists are lists. This is a decent one and difficult to quibble with. [Link to Food and Wine]

~ Another list. This one an annual list from Zymurgy with a significant change atop it. [Link to the Brewers Assocation]

~ The Pistola's crew is shooting for another success in a third neighborhood. Smart money says this will likewise be a winner. [Link to Philadelphia Magazine]




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 22, 2017

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: June 22 - June 30

Back in the weekly calendar posting swing of things around here post-Philly Beer Week. Still plenty to choose from. Did I miss anything?

As you review the listings, don't forget Philly Tap Finder. They host an impressive listing of event draft lists to help better inform your beer event scheduling.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region.

Camden, NJ
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Festival on the Battleship at Battleship New Jersey [Experience a tour of the Battleship, live music by the Cabin Dogs, a souvenir sampling mug, delicious Dietz & Watson hot dogs and sausage sandwiches, and enjoy beer from over 30 breweries throughout the state.  $50-$70]

Cape May, NJ
Sat. 6/24; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. — Cape May Hops Festival at Emlen Physick Estate [Enjoy local breweries, live blues music on the outdoor stage, and food vendors serving up some tasty BBQ and other favorites, plus a crafts and collectibles show and kids activities.  $PAYG]

Conshohocken, Pa.
Wed. 6/28; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — FWOT 2nd Annual Wing-Off featuring Stone Brewing at Fingers Wings & Other Things [Join the FWOT Gang and Stone Brewing Co. and see who can pound back a dozen wings the fastest.  $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.
Tue. 6/27; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — La Cabra Brewing Event at Bottle Room [Bottle Room is excited to host our friends from La Cabra Brewing in Berwyn for a tap takeover.  $PAYG]

Easton, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — 22nd Anniversary Bash at Weyerbacher Brewing Company [We’re turning 22 and we’re celebrating with a bash at the brewery.  $10-$30]

Ephrata, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Ephrata Brewfest at Whistle Stop Plaza [16 breweries and featuring Mark DeRose & The Dreadnought Brigade.  $10-$40]

Ewing Township, NJ
Sat. 6/24; 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. — Barre & Beers at River Horse Brewing Company [Come join the Pure Barre Princeton community for a pop up class at River Horse.  $10]

Harleysville, Pa.
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m. — Avery Night at The Butcher & Barkeep [Tons of aged beers along with beautiful sours to round out the tap lines.  $PAYG]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 11:30 a.m. — Bacon Beer Brunch in the Beer Garden at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us in the beer garden (weather permitting) for a four course bacon themed brunch from Head Chef Josh Jastrzembski paired with four delicious beers by Lead Brewer Jeff Gundrum.  $35]

Lancaster, Pa.
Tue. 6/20 through Sun. 6/25; All day — PA Brewery Week at The Fridge [There are 252 active breweries in the State of Pennsylvania and we would like to highlight as many as we can in a week.  $PAYG]

Maple Shade, NJ
Thu. 6/29; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Red, White, and Brew Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Enjoy summer BBQ inspired features, and wash them down with our crisp and refreshing red, white, and blue sampler.  $PAYG]

Media, Pa.
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — New Belgium Brewing Night at Pinocchio's [Juicy Watermelon, Fat Tire, Voodoo Ranger, and Citradelic.  $PAYG]
Wed. 6/28; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Devils Backbone Night at Pinocchio's [A variety of beers from Devils Backbone.  $PAYG]

Mont Clare, Pa.
Sun. 6/25; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Schuylkill Canal Day at Lock 60 & St. Michael's Park [Join us at Lock 60 in Mont Clare for a day of fun, games, beer, music, and more at the 35th annual Canal Day celebration.  $PAYG]

Perkasie, Pa.
Sun. 6/25; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Sour Sunday at Free Will Brewing Company [It's been 3 whole months since our last Sour Sunday, and we're so excited to welcome it back.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 6/22; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Ballast Point Tasting at Beer Love [We know you can't get enough of Ballast Point Brewing Company beers.  $PAYG]
Thu. 6/22; 2 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trust The Process Crowler Release at Evil Genius Brewing Company [Allow us to assist you on June 22nd, as we make NBA Draft day a slam dunk by re-releasing our Sixers themed Mosaic & Amarillo IPA: Trust The Process.  $PAYG]
Fri. 6/23; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Devils Backbone Tasting at Beer Love [Come sample some of Devils Backbone Brewing Company's finest beers.  $PAYG]
Fri. 6/23; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Sam Adams.  $Free]
Sat. 6/24; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Summer Ale Festival at Philadelphia Zoo [Specialty brews, animals, live entertainment, and more.  $35-$75]
Sat. 6/24 & Sun. 6/25; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Game of Thrones Big Brunch at The Industry [Brunchy food and either a beer or a brunch drink.  $10]
Sun. 6/25; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Band of Brewers V at World Cafe Live [Each band will consist solely of brewery employees and there will be tons of great beer from each performing brewery.  $15-$20]
Mon. 6/26; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for 2SP brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from the week's brewery.  $Free]
Tue. 6/27; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — 8th Anniversary Party at Brauhaus Schmitz [Includes live music and a traditional German food buffet. Draft beer, cider, and wine $4. All proceeds benefit the South Street Police Mini Station.  $10 + $PAYG]
Tue. 6/27; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for Victory brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from the week's brewery.  $Free]
Fri. 6/30; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Weyerbacher Tasting at Beer Love [What began as a daydream in an avid homebrewer’s head has grown to the craft brewery that you know and love.  $PAYG]
Fri. 6/30; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Yuengling.  $Free]
Fri. 6/30; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Final-ly Friday Beer Tasting at Trolley Car Diner [Tasting samples of beers from Starr Hill.  $Free]

Reading, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — 6th Anniversary at Liberty Taproom [Come help us celebrate our sixth anniversary as we welcome the owners, head brewer, head of quality control, and sales team from Hardywood Park for a day of great beer and fun.  $PAYG]

Sellersville, Pa.
Tue. 6/27; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Avery Beer Dinner at The Horse Tavern & Grill [You will be enjoying four courses of food perfectly paired with Avery's White Rascal, Ellie's Brown Ale, The Real Peel IPA, and Liliko'i Kepolo.  $40]

Smyrna, Del.
Tue. 6/27; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Ales vs Lagers with Dogfish Head at Brick Works Brewing and Eats [This dinner will feature five beers and five courses.  $45]

West Chester, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Chester County Homebrew Festival at American Helicopter Museum [Join us for our seventh year of good music and food, and vote for your favorite homebrewed beer.  $40]

West Reading, Pa.
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Stone Brewing True Independent Craft Event at Barley Mow Craft Beer House [The beer garden will be in full swing and we'll have some awesome live music as well. There will be giveaways, a flag, and glassware.  $PAYG]
Thu. 6/29; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Pig Roast with Dundore & Heister + Peak Organic Brewing at Barley Mow Craft Beer House [To kick off the summer - Dundore & Heister will be roasting a huge, pasture raised pig in our beer garden. To pair with their supreme meats, we will be teaming up Peak Organic brews.  $20-$25]

Wilmington, Del.
Wed. 6/28; 7 p.m. — Patio Picnic Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us on the patio for five courses spotlighting the fresh flavors of summer from Executive Chef David Foster paired with five delicious beers by Head Brewer Moriah Guise.  $65]

York, Pa.
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Inaugural Firkin Fun Saturday at Collusion Tap Works [This event will include a kiwi gose with watermelon for the featured firkin. We will also have a watermelon eating competition as well as a seed spitting competition.  $PAYG]




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 20, 2017

5 favorite beers of last two weeks (June 5-18)

Had a bit of a post-PBW hangover (plus a day job conference) last week, so I never quite got around to sharing with you the best beers I encountered in the previous week. Three were encountered during Philly Beer Week. The other two were featured samplings that I included at my book signing appearance at the Antietam Farmers Market in Reading, Pa. this past weekend.

(Dark as night, drinks easily during the day.)

~ Baby Bob (6%), by 2SP Brewing Company (Aston, Pa.)
    At my book signing in Reading, of the seven beers I took for sampling (perhaps with the exception of the 17.1% Avery Mephistopheles), none other was as captivating as the Baby Bob. People seemed as curious about the name as they were the liquid itself. As an acknowledgement to brewer Bob Barrar's award-winning ways with his Russian Imperial Stout, this smaller Baby Bob is a roasty, easy-drinking American Stout.

(Delivers a Windfall of flavorful enjoyment.)

~ Windfall (6.1%), by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    Peaches. Tart. Brett. That's perfect enough description. Encountered during a visit to Tria Taproom from Allagash's owner Rob Tod, this is the second beer of theirs that went overboard in impressing Philly Beer Week-goers earlier this month.

(Can they can the IPA at Dock Street? Golden idea.)

~ Golden IPA, by Dock Street Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    The last day of Philly Beer Week has several usual suspects. Fergie's. Local 44. And Dock Street. In past years at Dock Street, you could count on my Beer Runs. The brewery's Music Festival. This year, they only recently opened the new "Cannery + Lounge" in an adjacent property behind the brewery on 50th Street. They took a quieter route to ending PBW this year. With two canned releases. Summer in Berlin and Golden IPA, both in 16-ounce cans. The IPA hit all the right notes for me. Then again, with the Mosaic, Citra, Simcoe, and Amarillo all-star hops with just a touch of haze (not cloudiness, mind you), I wouldn't have expected anything less out of Mark Russell's brewhouse.

(Solid sour from one of Philly's oldest craft/micro brewers.)

~ Cuvée de Yunk (5%), by Manayunk Brewing Company (Philadelphia, Pa.)
    In a Facebook post during Philly Beer Week, I'd mentioned something about "...being honest...should be paying more attention...." To Manayunk Brewery, that is. And, it took this spectacular apricot sour at Strangelove's during a cross-town walk on a 94-degree last day of PBW to remind of that.

(One of the region's best and most consistent pilsners.)

~ Trauger Pilsner (4.8%), by Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company (Croydon, Pa.)
    No doubt it's the Hallertau and Tettnanger noble hops in this German-style Pilsner from one of Bucks County's finest that made this another fan favorite at my book signing event....and also after the power-washing project later in the day. In case you wonder how much a favorite this is of my own, as well, look no further than my home kegerator which has seen more than one of these sixtels pushing up beer through the taps.




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 15, 2017

Beer Event Calendar: What To Do in the Remainder of June 2017

As you likely noticed, I shifted gears for the first half of June as Philly Beer Week ramped up and took over most of the beer event calendar in Philly. Now I'm back to "normal" with what you need to know about getting out for a beer and some good times.

This Saturday, my book events keep on with another signing event, this one at the Antietam Farmers Market in Reading, Pa. I'll be there selling the perfect Father's Day gift at a great local market. If you're in or near Berks County on Saturday, come check me out!

If you somehow have still not seen the book or can't get to Reading on Saturday, check it out over at my publisher's site. Or to buy, send a note to me, ping Amazon.com, or drop by your local bookstore such as Barnes & Noble.

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. 6/15; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Yards Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/16; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 6/16; 5 p.m. — Rheingeist Launch at City Tap House-Logan in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/16; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — The Cira Green Beer Garden at World Café Live in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/17; 12 p.m. — June BBQ at Dawson Street Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/17 and 6/24 & Sun. 6/18 and 6/25; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Game of Thrones Big Brunch at The Industry in Philadelphia, Pa. [$10]
Sun. 6/18; 11:30 a.m. — Dinks for Dads at Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Sun. 6/18; All day — Pints For Pop at City Tap House-Logan in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/18; All day — Pints For Pop at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/18; 12 p.m.-9 p.m. — Father's Day at The Lab at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Mon. 6/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 6/20; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 6/22; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Ballast Point Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/22; 2 p.m.-10 p.m. — Trust The Process Crowler Release at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/23; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Devils Backbone Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/23; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Sun. 6/25; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Band of Brewers at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, Pa. [$15]
Mon. 6/26; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 6/27; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 6/30; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Weyerbacher Tasting at Beer Love in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/30; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 6/30; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Final-ly Friday Beer Tasting at Trolley Car Diner in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]

Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 6/15; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Complimentary Wine and Beer Tasting at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$Free]
Thu. 6/15; 6 p.m. — Wicked Weed Tap Takeover at Hulmeville Inn in Hulmeville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Manayunk Brewing Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/17; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Saturday before Fathers Day Special Brews at Spellbound Brewing Company in Mount Holly, NJ [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/18; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. — Father's Day Can Release at Conshohocken Brewing Company in Conshohocken & Bridgeport, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — New Belgium Brewing Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 6/28; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — FWOT 2nd Annual Wing-Off featuring Stone Brewing at Fingers Wings & Other Things in Conshohocken, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 6/28; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Devils Backbone Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/29; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Red, White, and Brew Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ [$PAYG]

Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Wed. 6/14; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Maibock & Brats with Flying Fish at Friendly Greek Bottle Shop in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 11 a.m. — We Turn 10 at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 10 a.m. — 4 Year Anniversary at The Pour House in Exton, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting  at Funck's in Palmyra, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 3 p.m. — Modern Times Draft & Package Launch at The Fridge in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting  at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Sierra Nevada Beer Camp at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Engine 51 Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 5 p.m. — Magnify Brewing Tap Takeover at The Pour House in Westmont, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/15; 5 p.m. — Neshaminy Creek's 5th Anniversary Party at Ulysses Gastropub in Wilmington, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/16; 6 p.m. — Modern Times Tap Invasion at Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/16; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Meet The Brewer: Howling Henry's at Friendly Greek Bottle Shop in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 6/16; 11:30 a.m. — Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/17; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Modern Times IPA Take Over at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/18; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Father's Day at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/18; 11 a.m. — Father's Day=Free Beer at World Of Beer in Exton, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 6/20; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Diane's Heritage Stock Ale Release Party at Two Rivers Brewing Company in Easton, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 6/20 through Sun. 6/25; All day — PA Brewery Week at The Fridge in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 6/21; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — 2nd Anniversary Block Party at Kennett Brewing Company in Kennett Square, Pa. [$10]
Wed. 6/21; 11 a.m. — Deli Crowler Release at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m. — Avery Night at The Butcher & Barkeep in Harleysville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/22; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Stone Brewing True Independent Craft Event at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/24; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. — Cape May Hops Festival at Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/24; 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. — Barre & Beers at River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing Township, NJ [$10]
Sat. 6/24; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — 6th Anniversary at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Inaugural Firkin Fun Saturday at Collusion Tap Works in York, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/25; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Sour Sunday at Free Will Brewing Company in Perkasie, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 6/25; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Schuylkill Canal Day at Lock 60 & St. Michael's Park in Mont Clare, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 6/27; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — La Cabra Brewing Event at Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 6/29; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Pig Roast with Dundore & Heister + Peak Organic Brewing at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$20-$25]


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Thu. 6/15; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Philadelphia Restaurant Festival at Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, Pa. [$50-$70]
Sat. 6/17; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Camp On Tour at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia, Pa. [$40-$75]
Sun. 6/18; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Beef, Beer, & Bourbon at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$74.98]
Wed. 6/21; 8 p.m.-11 p.m. — Game of Thrones: Bend The Knee Golden Ale Launch Event at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, Pa. [$65]
Sat. 6/24; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Summer Ale Festival at Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, Pa. [$35-$75]

Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 6/24; 11:30 a.m. — Bacon Beer Brunch in the Beer Garden at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. [$35]

Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 6/17; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — West Chester Craft Beer Festival at Charles A Melton Arts & Ed Center in West Chester, Pa. [$5-$50]
Sat. 6/17; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — Harrisburg Brewers Fest at Locust & Third Streets in Harrisburg, Pa. [$10-$50]
Sat. 6/17; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Ride The Rails at Boxcar Brewing Company in West Chester, Pa. [$25-$50]
Sat. 6/17; 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. — Bike & Brew Tour at Kennett Brewing Company in Kennett Square, Pa. [$50]
Sat. 6/17; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Skip The Tie Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. [$29.95]
Sat. 6/17; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Summerfest at The Horse Tavern & Grill in Sellersville, Pa. [$40-$60]
Sat. 6/17; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. — Brews & Bites at Pennsbury Manor in Morrisville, Pa. [$10-$40]
Sun. 6/18; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Father's Day Beef & Beer at Kennett Brewing Company in Kennett Square, Pa. [$35-$50]
Sat. 6/24; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Ephrata Brewfest at Whistle Stop Plaza in Ephrata, Pa. [$10-$40]
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Festival on the Battleship at Battleship New Jersey in Philadelphia, Pa. [$50-$70]
Sat. 6/24; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — 22nd Anniversary Bash at Weyerbacher Brewing Company in Easton, Pa. [$10-$30]
Tue. 6/27; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Ales vs Lagers with Dogfish Head at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Smyrna, Del. [$45]
Tue. 6/27; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Avery Beer Dinner at The Horse Tavern & Grill in Sellersville, Pa. [$40]
Wed. 6/28; 7 p.m. — Patio Picnic Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington, Del. [$65]






© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 07, 2017

Philly Beer Week 2017: Where we (I) stand

(Click above for a full gallery of pictures from the first half of PBW '17)

Some of you (at least those of you that hold me to my word, which is almost always completely dependable) have noticed that I haven't stuck to my original plan. Preview postings, wrap-up postings, full coverage.

Even though, in addition to Opening Tap and the Hammer of Glory Relay, I've stopped in to 14 "events" around PBW during the first six days (while taking Monday "off"). But, for a variety of reasons that I won't waste your time critiquing or psychoanalyzing, I haven't done my typically thorough pre- and post-game analysis.

There are five days remaining in this year's Philly Beer Week. You can expect to see me somewhere, sometime each of these days except for Saturday. My itinerary changes almost on a daily basis, for reasons I may touch on in my post-week wrap-up. What I can suggest is that you could likely see me tonight at the Carton event (Tir Na Nog), Firestone Walker event (Good Dog), Ommegang Game of Thrones event (Misconduct), Captain Lawrence event (Sancho Pistola's), Allagash event (at either Tria Taproom or Jose Pistolas'), and/or post-lunch Two Roads/De La Senne beers (Jose Pistola's).

What I will do is wrap it all up when it's over. Until then, keep calm and try to maintain a healthy schedule of beer events and I'll see you along the way. Cheers!




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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, June 06, 2017

4 favorite beers of last week (May 29-June 4)

In my continuing series of the best beers I've had in the prior week, you may not be surprised to learn that in the past week, they were all encountered during Philly Beer Week. A couple of them, you may never (or, at least, not soon) see again.

(Pick Your Own was enjoyed at an excellent event with Allagash and Fat Head's at the P.O.P.E. It's very dark inside. Given that, I'm happy enough with this picture, much happier with the beer itself.)

~ Pick Your Own (6.4%), by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    Fruit rules this sour ale. Raspberries, Cherries, Strawberries, and Blueberries. It was in an "oak foudre with Lactobacillus and Pediococcus for two years". That worked out very well. A beautiful color and so much flavor. Exactly what you'd expect. Hoping to hit up at least one more event with Allagash during remainder of PBW to have another encounter or two with this beer.

(This beer was only recently completed and shipped over to Philly just in time for Philly Beer Week and, here, at a Monk's Cafe lunch with the owner/brewer.)

~ Simplex (4.5%), by Brouwerij De Ranke (Dottignies, Belgium)
    In essence, this beer gets its name from being a "simpler" XX Bitter. If you're familiar with that 20+ year old standard-bearing beer from De Ranke, I'm betting you'll love this Simplex as well. My hunch is that it's the Hallertau Mittelfrüh and the low alcohol that has me hooked. So far, I'm three glasses into this beer and hoping for many more.

(Had this beer at both Opening Tap and at Varga during the last week. Yet still don't actually have a picture of the beer. Well, though, this one is of Kristen Madgitz from the brewery's sales team about to hand one to me. So that counts.)

~ Lot 215 IPA, by Evolution Craft Brewing Company (Salisbury, Md.)
    According to the description, this begins with the base Lot 3 IPA and then incorporates smoked cedar and spruce tips, smoked dried cherries, and a dry hopping menu of Chinook, Citra, and Columbus. And that's exactly what you get. Very interesting.

(This sturdy, bready, yet easy-going delicious lager was presented at one of the highlight events of PBW thus far. From left, Brian O'Reilly, Bill Moeller, William Reed.)

~ Northern Liberties Lager (5.8%), by Sly Fox Brewing Company (Pottstown, Pa.)
    Brian O'Reilly (Brewmaster, Sly Fox) has collaborated the last ten years with William Reed (proprietor, the hyper-local Standard Tap and Johnny Brenda's) and this year they took it to another level. This recipe was sourced from Bill Moeller's (Schmidt's, Ortlieb's, et al) father's beer recipe journal, circa 1910. After making adjustments, based upon modern day measurements (alpha acid, etc.), they crafted the most solid lager I've enjoyed thus far during PBW '17. During the release brunch event at Standard Tap, the 91-year-old Moeller was on hand and captivated the audience with decades of Philadelphia neighborhood and brewing stories. Get this one while you can at the brewery, or at either Standard Tap or Johnny Brenda's.




© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2017. 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