Thursday, August 31, 2017

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

I watch these things pretty closely and this month of September looks to be one of the busiest for beer events of all stripes in many months. Plenty to choose from. Back to school; back to beer. Cheers!

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
Throughout September; All day — Oktoberfest at McGillin's Old Ale House in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/1; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Beef & Beer Besties at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/5; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Russian River Happy Hour at Grace Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/5; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour – AleSmith at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 9/5; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping – Funk at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/6; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour – Big Hill Ciderworks at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Wed. 9/6; 5 p.m. — Black Hog Brewing Event at South Philadelphia Tap Room in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/8; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/8; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Heavy Seas Four Cannon Salute at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m. — Happy 6th Birthday Block Party at Evil Genius Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/10; 1 p.m. — Kicking Off This Year's First Eagles Kickoff at City Tap House-Logan in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/10; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Monsters Of The Midwest at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/10; All day — Dallas Sucks! Beer Release at Jose Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/10; All day — Dallas Sucks! Beer Release at Sancho Pistola's in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 9/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour – Lagunitas at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 9/12; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Le Cat Happy Hour at Dock Street Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/12; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping – Allagash at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/12 through Sat. 9/16; Various times — South Street Oktoberfest & A Week's Worth of Events at Brauhaus Schmitz in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Varies]
Wed. 9/13; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — U Buy The Glass Night at The Abbaye in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 12 p.m. — Jawntoberfest at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/15; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/15 through Thu. 9/21; All day — Sausage Fest at Standard Tap in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/16; All day — Pumpkinfest Part 1 & 2 at Hop Angel Brauhaus in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/17; All day — Firestone Walker Sixtel Sunday at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 9/18; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour – Conshohocken at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 9/19; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping – Vault at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/20; 5 p.m. — Beer School at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/22; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/22; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — The Art of Magic Hat: Beer, Drawing, Coloring at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/23; 12 p.m. — Cantillon Zwanze Day at Monk's Café in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/23; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — Annual Beer-BQ at Trolley Car Diner in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Mon. 9/25; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour – St. Benjamin at Local 44 in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Tue. 9/26; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping – Sly Fox at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/27; 8 p.m.-10 p.m. — The Simpsons Quizzo at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/28; All day — Brooklyn Defender Pint Night at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/29; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/29; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Unibroue: Baby Got Quebec at Grey Lodge Pub in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/29; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Final-ly Friday Tasting at Trolley Car Diner in Philadelphia, Pa. [$Free]
Fri. 9/29 through Sun. 10/1; All weekend — Oktoberfest at Alla Spina in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]

after September in Philadelphia
Sun. 10/1; TBA — Throwdown In Franklintown at Kite & Key in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 10/5; 12 p.m. — 6th Anniversary Party at Barcade in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 10/8; All day — Pumpkin Smash at City Tap House-University City in Philadelphia, Pa. [$PAYG]


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 9/2; 11 a.m. — MC5 DDH IPA Can & Draft Release at Conshohocken Brewing Company in Conshohocken, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/3; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Punk o' Lantern Release Party at Village Idiot Brewing Company in Mount Holly, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Oskar Blues/Cigar City Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Not Your Ordinary Pumpkin Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Maple Shade, NJ [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Otter Creek Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/21; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Empire Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/23; All day — Sour Saturday at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/23; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Pumpkin Prost Multi Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/27; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Sterling Pig Night at Pinocchio's in Media, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/30; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon, Pa. [$PAYG]

after September in Philadelphia's close suburbs
N/A


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 9/1; 3 p.m.-11 p.m. — Mollly Cross Release & Firkin at Molly Pitcher Brewing Company in Carlisle, PA [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; All day — Punkin Celebration at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; All day — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; All day — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; All day — Punkin Celebration at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/1; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: St. Bernardus at Washington House in Sellersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/2; All day — Anniversary Party at 7 Mile Brewery in Rio Grande, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/2; All day — 1 Year Anniversary Party at Collusion Tap Works in York, Pa. [$PAYG or $50]
Sat. 9/2 through Mon. 9/4; 12 p.m. — Sessions, Sours, & Saisons at Weyerbacher Brewing Company in Easton, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/5; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Freeman's Pub Ale Release Party at Two Rivers Brewing Company in Easton, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/6; 5 p.m. — Brewer's Choice For Charity at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 9/6; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Firkins For Films at Root Down Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$Free +$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — National Beer Lover's Day at Counter Culture in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Perennial Tap Invasion Weekend at CJ's Doghouse in Kulpsville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Dark Beers at Free Will Taproom at Peddler's Village in Lahaska, Pa. [$15]
Thu. 9/7; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — End of Summer Clam Bake at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 4:30 p.m. — Vintage & Vinyl - World Wide Stout Vertical at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Cape May Tap Takeover at Goodnight Irene's in Wildwood, NJ [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/8; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Oyster Stout Release Party at 16 Mile Brewing Company in Georgetown, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/8; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Oktoberfest Beer Release at The Millworks in Harrisburg, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/8; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Firestone Walker Tap Invasion at Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; All day — To Protect and Serve Fall Feast at River Horse Brewing Company in Ewing Township, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Tapping of the Great Pumpkin Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; All day — Customer Appreciation Celebration at The Fridge in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Sly Fox Flight with Appalachian Air Canines at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Pop-up Beer Garden at Boxcar Brewery in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Tue. 9/12; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Kick It Root Down at Bottle Room in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 6 p.m. — Tröegs and Big Hill Ciderworks Collaboration Party at Sturges Speakeasy in Harrisburg, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Lager Festival at Hunger N Thirst in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting at Funck's in Leola, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Firestone Walker Tap Takeover at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. [$PAYG]
Thu. 9/14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Tap Attack and Tasting at Funck's in Palmyra, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/15; 4 p.m.-8 p.m. — Pups, Pints, and Painting at Federal Taphouse in Lancaster, Pa. [$20]
Fri. 9/15; All day — Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/16;  11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em at Roy Pitz Brewing Company in Chambersburg, Pa. [$12-$17]
Sat. 9/16; 12 p.m. — Phlight of the Phoenix at Six "Craft Establishments" in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/16; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Gourd of Thrones Multi Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/16; All day — Fall Festival Beer Garden at Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/16; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Collusion Tap Works in York, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Pop-up Beer Garden at Boxcar Brewery in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/17; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Victory Beer Brunch at Two Stones Pub in Jennersville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/17; 12 p.m.-5:30 p.m. — Beer Garden for Restaurant Festival at Side Bar in West Chester, Pa. [$3 + $PAYG]
Fri. 9/22; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Release Party at Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company in Dover, Del. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/22; 6 p.m. — Evil Genius Happy Hour Tap Takeover at Kildare's Irish Pub in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/23; All day — Out Of The Cellar 8th Anniversary Party at Bistro on Bridge in Phoenixville, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Pop-up Beer Garden at Boxcar Brewery in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 9/24; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Downingtown Fall Fest at Green Street & E. Pennsylvania Avenue in Downingtown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Fri. 9/29; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Fishing For A Coppertail at Teresa's Next Door in Wayne, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/30; 12 p.m. — Can Jam Music Festival at Sly Fox Brewing Company in Pottstown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 9/30; All day — Oktoberfest On The Square at Haddon Square Pop-up Beer Garden in Westmont, NJ [$PAYG or $25]
Sat. 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Pop-up Beer Garden at Boxcar Brewery in West Chester, Pa. [$PAYG]

after September in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Sun. 10/1; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Biergarten Fest at Excelsior in Lancaster, Pa. [$PAYG]
Wed. 10/4; 5 p.m. — Brewer's Choice For Charity at Allentown Brew Works in Allentown, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sun. 10/15; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. — Sour Fest at Liberty Taproom in Reading, Pa. [$PAYG]
Sat. 10/21; 4 p.m. — Fall "Brewers Pizza Night" Festival at Argilla Brewing Company in Newark, Del. [$PAYG]


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Mon. 9/11; 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Off Flavor Beer Tasting Course at Devil's Den in Philadelphia, Pa. [$30-$35]
Tue. 9/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Summer Harvest Beer Dinner at Urban Village Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pa. [$65]
Sat. 9/16; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Oktobearfest at Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, Pa. [$35-$55]
Fri. 9/22 & Sat. 9/23; 6:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. — Philly Music and Arts Fest at World Café Live in Philadelphia, Pa. [$30-$125]
Sat. 9/23; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Craft Beer and Cheese Pairing at Philly Beer School in Philadelphia, Pa. [$49.98]

after September in Philadelphia
Sun. 10/1; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Sippin' By The River at Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. [$10-$45]
Fri. Oct. 6 through Sun. Oct. 8; Various times — 23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest at 23rd Street Armory in Philadelphia, Pa. [$35-$85]
Sat. 10/7; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Charlie Brown Pumpkin Beer Festival at The Institute in Philadelphia, Pa. [$40]


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Mon. 9/4; 3 p.m.-8 p.m. — BBQ & Brews Labor Day at Iron Abbey in Horsham, Pa. [$25]
Sat. 9/9; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — MGK Brew Blast at Battleship New Jersey in Camden, NJ [$20-$45]
Sat. 9/9; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. — Beer & Yoga at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Media, Pa. [$25]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Pints In The Square at Ellis Preserve in Newtown Square, Pa. [$10-$65]
Tue. 9/19; 6:30 p.m. — Winner’s Circle Beer Dinner Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in North Wales, Pa. [$65]

after September in Philadelphia's close suburbs
Thu. 10/5; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. — King of Prussia Beerfest Royale: Donnerstag Happy Hour at King of Prussia Mall parking lot in King of Prussia, PA [$60-$75]
Sat. 10/7; 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — King of Prussia Beerfest Royale: Saturday Sessions at King of Prussia Mall parking lot in King of Prussia, PA [$15-$50]


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Fri. 9/8; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Farm to Fork Beer Pairing Dinner at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company in Shawnee-on-Delaware, Pa. [$49]
Sat. 9/9; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Allentown Beer Festival at Hamilton Street between 5th and 6th Streets in Allentown, Pa. [$34]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Odessa Brewfest at Wilson-Warner House in Odessa, Del. [$15-$70]
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Corn Hole Tournament at Stable 12 Brewing Company in Phoenixville, Pa. [$40]
Sat. 9/16; 4 p.m. — Craft Beerfest at Resorts Casino Ballroom in Atlantic City, NJ [$30]
Sat. 9/16; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — 20th Annual Capital City Invitational Beerfest at Appalachian Brewing Company in Harrisburg, Pa. [$10-$35]
Sat. 9/16; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Lehigh Valley Brewer's Guild Beer Festival at Lost Tavern Brewing Company in Hellertown, Pa. [$10-$40]
Sat. 9/16; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Back 2 School Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar in Lancaster, Pa. [$29.95]
Sat. 9/16; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Nose-to-Tail Beer Dinner at The Garlic Poet Restaurant & Bar in New Cumberland, Pa. [$70.6]
Sat. 9/16; 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. — Newtown Beerfest at The Stocking Works in Newtown, Pa. [$10-$75]
Sat. 9/16; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Tavern Night at Pottsgrove Manor at Pottsgrove Manor in Pottstown, Pa. [$10-$35]
Mon. 9/18; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Bell's Brewery Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House in Lititz, Pa. [$35]
Tue. 9/19; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Noshing on the 90’s Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Voorhees, NJ [$65]
Sat. 9/23; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Founder's Fest at Stoudts Brewing Company in Adamstown, Pa. [$30-$40]
Sat. 9/23; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Suburban Restaurant and Beer Garden in Exton, Pa. [$50-$65]
Sat. 9/23; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Craft Beer Festival at College Avenue and Center Street in Glassboro, NJ [$5-$50]
Sat. 9/23; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Brews By The Bay at Big Chill Beach Club in Bethany Beach, Del. [$10-$50]
Sat. 9/23; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Great Pumpkin Debate at Peco's Liquor Store in Wilmington, Del. [$10-$25 + $PAYG]
Sun. 9/24; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — Lititz Craft Beer Fest at Main Street between the Square and Church Avenue in Lititz, Pa. [$40]
Mon. 9/25; 6:30 p.m. — 2SP Brewing Beer Dinner at Two Stones Pub in Hockessin, Del. [$49.95]
Sat. 9/30; 12 p.m.-5:30 p.m. — Kennett Brewfest at South Broad Street in Kennett Square, Pa. [$15-$85]
Sat. 9/30; 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. — Beer & Yoga at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Newark, Del. [$25]

after September in Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other
Sun. 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, & 10/22; 1 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Stoudts Brewing Company in Adamstown, Pa. [$10-$30]






© 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, August 29, 2017

3 favorite beers from August 21 - August 27

Gonna make things easy on you this week and put just three very good beers out there for you to consider.


(I like the branded glassware almost as much as I like the beer.)

~ Apex Special IPA (8.25%), by Bear Republic Brewing Company (Cloverdale, Calif.)
    Call it a special IPA, an imperial IPA, a strong IPA, a double IPA, or whatever you like. In my case, I call it one of the best examples of a strong, clean, and very well-balanced hop forward beer. Melon fruit, assertive but palatable bitterness, with a solid bready malt base. I've never visited them in person in all my visits to the brewery's home state. I may change that in October.

(Live music, pig roast, bottle release, beautiful weather made a perfect Saturday in Berwyn.)

~ Hipster Catnip (7.2%), by La Cabra Brewing (Berwyn, Pa.)
    Even if I was a hipster before the word was invented (and, hopefully, I wasn't), I don't believe I'd drink a beer that called attention to my hipsterdom. But, here and now, not drinking Hipster Catnip would indeed be dumb. Citra hops. Mosaic hops. Package this up in a cat toy and I'd chase it around all afternoon. They did a very nice job opening their parking lot to an afternoon festival last Saturday and I hope to see many more such events in the future (Something about Oktoberfest was mentioned; watch the calendar.)

Also catching my attention at La Cabra during the event was Zettle. I'm not typically attracted to many a Hefeweizen, but this one's a refreshing balance of clean, not muddied, hallmark spices and its easy finish made this a winner.


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



Friday, August 25, 2017

August 2017: Beer News update, part 2

Little bit of this and that to share with you from the last couple of weeks. Some interesting, some thought-provoking. Enjoy.

~ I recently did a malt-focused article. Bay Area friend, Derrick Peterman, recently wrote his view from California. [Link to Edible East Bay]

~ Some front line observations from those that didn't make it. [Link to Draft Magazine]

~ A viewpoint from one that went to the macro side. [Link to MarketWatch]

~ I recently talked with the folks behind Bube's Brewery in Mount Joy for some blurbs in upcoming Ale Street News. Here is much longer piece into the location's fascinating history. [Link to LancasterOnline]

~ Fresh out of yesterday's news. [Link to Charlotte Observer]





© 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, August 24, 2017

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: August 24 - August 31

Even though it didn't really feel like the dog days, it's time to close out the month of August with at least a couple dozen more beer events, plus a peek out into September.

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.

Aston, Pa.
Sat. 8/26; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Beer Muscles 2017 at 2SP Brewing Company [This event promises a winning combination of lifting heavy things and drinking craft beer (though not at the same time).   $50-$65 to compete; $PAYG for beer]

Berwyn, Pa.
Sat. 8/26; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Summer Send Off (Pig Roast & Bottle Release) at La Cabra Brewing Company [The dog days of summer are coming to an end and La Cabra Brewing wants to send Summer off the best way we know how, with an all you can eat Colombian Pig Roast, plus the release of Aleatory #3, a strawberry wild in 750 ml bottles.  $25 and/or $PAYG for beer]

Camden, NJ
Sat. 9/9; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — MGK Brew Blast at Battleship New Jersey [Over 50 beers and live classic rock (MGK House Band) on the tented deck of America's most decorated battleship. All tickets include a free tour of the Battleship New Jersey.  $20-$45]

Cape May, NJ
Thu. 8/24; All day — Draft Release: Mop Water at Cape May Brewing Company [CMBC’s Chief Mop Man mandated a beer brewed with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and a s-load of whole-bean vanilla.  $PAYG]

Clarksboro, NJ
Tue. 8/29; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — The Brew Run Series at Death Of The Fox Brewing Company [Post run enjoyment includes a brewery tour, beer, raffles, and fun with fellow runners. Benefits Boys & Girls Clubs of Gloucester County.  $22]

Coatesville, Pa.
Sun. 8/27; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Boxcar's Speakeasy-Inspired Pop-Up Beer Garden at Brandywine Outfitters [Boxcar Beer, PA Wine and Spirits, Food Trucks, Music, Outdoor Lawn Games, and Stillwater Kayaking available.  $PAYG]

Doylestown, Pa.
Sat. 8/26; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Fonthill Castle Beer Fest at Fonthill Castle [Enjoy a summertime beer tasting in the spectacular outdoor setting of Fonthill Castle. Sample local and regional brews paired with light fare and music.  $25-$100]

Glen Mills, Pa.
Wed. 8/30; 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. — Grains, Malt, & Whiskey Dinner with Deer Creek Malthouse at Terrain [Includes three-course malt-inspired dinner. Complimentary beer and whiskey education and tasting will be provided.  $75]

Harrisburg, Pa.
Sat. 9/16; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — 20th Annual Capital City Invitational Beerfest at Appalachian Brewing Company [Enjoy some of the season’s best craft beers from the region’s top craft breweries all in the Abbey Ba and a free appetizer buffet and fun food and snack vendors.  $10-$35]

Lahaska, Pa.
Thu. 9/7; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Dark Beers at Free Will Taproom at Peddler's Village [Includes class, flight, and take-home gift.  $15]

Lancaster, Pa.
Sat. 8/26; 3 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Lancaster Craft Beerfest at Lancaster Square and Binns Park [Our goal is to provide craft beer drinkers with an amazing selection of unique beers so they can discover new and old favorites. There will be great food and live music to enjoy as well.  $12-$55]

Media, Pa.
Thu. 8/24; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Founders Mosaic Promise at Pinocchio's [Mosaic Promise and others from Founders.  $PAYG]

Milton, Del.
Thu. 9/7; 4:30 p.m. — Vintage & Vinyl - World Wide Stout Vertical at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery [We're digging into our Vintage Stash and spinning some groovy Vinyl for one fantastically awesome Happy Hour. For September, we're pouring ‘10 World Wide Stout, '13 World Wide Stout, ’16 World Wide Stout, and ’17 Oak-Aged Vanilla World Wide Stout.  $PAYG]

Newtown Square, Pa.
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. — Pints In The Square at Ellis Preserve [Access to unlimited tastings of 60+ beers, live music, and local food vendors.   $10-$65]

Perkasie, Pa.
Sun. 8/27; All day — Sour Sunday at Free Will Brewing Company [We fill our tap lines with sours, saisons, and wild ales from our Sour Cellar, and share with you our love of everything funky. For this installment of Sour Sunday, we will have 2 food trucks: Ollie's Food Truck and Surf and Turf Truck.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 8/24; 5 p.m.-11 p.m. — Taste Of Lehigh Valley at Kite & Key [Featuring a mix of beers from HiJinx, Saucony Creek, Soul, Funk, and Fegley's.  $PAYG]
Fri. 8/25; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Yards Sampling at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Yards.  $Free]
Fri. 8/25; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Final-ly Friday at Trolley Car Diner [Tasting samples of beers from Neshaminy Creek.  $Free]
Mon. 8/28; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour: Neshaminy Creek at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Neshaminy Creek.  $Free]
Tue. 8/29; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping: 2SP at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [Beers from 2SP.  $PAYG]
Thu. 8/31; 12 p.m. — Victory Exclusive Beer Release: Rye Score at Barcade [We celebrate the release of our Victory Brewing collaboration, Rye Score. We’ll also be tapping plenty of other Victory beers.  $PAYG]
Thu. 8/31; 3 p.m.-11 p.m. — 10 Years at The Firehouse at Dock Street Brewing Company [We're ready to celebrate with our neighbors with a lil shindig and the release of a special Anniversary can of one of the 'hoods favorite beers.  $PAYG]
Tue. 9/12 through Sat. 9/16; Various times — South Street Oktoberfest & A Week's Worth of Events at Brauhaus Schmitz [See website for the full schedule of events and details.  $Varies]
Sun. 9/17; All day — Firestone Walker Sixtel Sunday at Kite & Key [As always we have set aside a great assortment of brews to highlight the event.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.
Sat. 9/9; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Cornhole Tournament at Stable 12 Brewing Company [Join us for a day of corn hole, beers and friendly competition in the beer garden.  $40]
Sat. 9/16; All day — Phlight Of The Phoenix at Six "Craft Establishments" in Phoenixville [This is your chance to visit historic downtown Phoenixville and earn yourself a stylishly chic t-shirt and bragging rights to say you completed the Phlight of the Phoenix.  $PAYG]

Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 8/25; 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. — Southern Tier Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [Tasting samples of beers from Southern Tier.  $Free]
Fri. 8/25; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Evolution Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [Tasting samples of beers from Evolution.  $Free]

Reading, Pa.
Sun. 8/27; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. — Shaggy-Dog 100k at Oakbrook Brewing Company [We are excited to kickoff the innuagural Shaggy Dog bike ride, in support of our friends over at The Friends of The Reading Police K-9 Unit. Three distances, so we have a route to offer for everyone.  $35-$45]

Sellersville, Pa.
Tue. 8/29; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Bell's Brewery Beer Dinner at The Horse Tavern & Grill [You will be enjoying four courses of food perfectly paired with four great beers.  $40]

Shawnee-on-Delaware, Pa.
Fri. 8/25; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Beer Pairing Dinner at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company [Hosted on Shawnee Island Farm, this 5 course meal prepared by Chef Mike Abate pairs each course with a unique ShawneeCraft beer.  $49]
Fri. 8/25; 6 p.m. — Canoe & Brew at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company [Enjoy a 3-mile canoe trip on the scenic Delaware River followed by a flight of our very our ShawneeCraft Brewing Company brews.  $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, August 22, 2017

Six favorite beers from August 7-August 20

Since my track record is getting a bit spotty with being able to keep this on a weekly schedule, I've gone and removed "of the week" from the title of this recurring post. Another week spent in Winston-Salem last week afforded me the opportunity to finally check out Natty Greene's in person. Only previously have enjoyed many of their beers off-premises. They'd just recently opened their third location, Kitchen + Market, so the timing worked out well. Read on below for more about beers in both my travels and at home.


(Allagash White great by itself, even better with dinner.)

~ White (5.1%), by Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine)
    I've been very fond of , and as loyal as possible to, the Kimpton family of hotels. They usually feature very good food and beverage as well. On the last night of my trip to Winston-Salem last week, dinner was at The Kimpton Cardinal. It's inside the former RJ Reynolds building, which interesting to note was the building that served as inspiration for NYC's Empire State Building. Inside it is a French-themed restaurant where I had an excellent Rockfish that sat on top of a sweet carrot emulsion and went perfectly with an Allagash White.


(Samichlaus - Still a smooth classic from Austria.)

~ Samichlaus (14%), by Brauerei Schloss Eggenberg (Graz, Austria)
    Virtually no carbonation but it's from 2005, so what did you expect? Still, very tasty with surprisingly minimal notes of oxidation and a pleasant booziness that, on the other hand, is not surprising given it's 14% ABV!


(Fun play on words, the name, and great tasting beer.)

~ Kiwi's Playhouse (8.1%), by Brooklyn Brewery (New York, NY)
    Had this sour ale that was aged on fresh kiwis in red wine barrels during the Beer Mansion event in Philadelphia on August 11. It's a truly remarkable event and this beer in particular, for my palate, stole the show.


(Couple of years on this beer have not hurt it.)

~ Bloody Butcher Appalachian Grisette (5.2%), by Fonta Flora Brewery (Morganton, NC)
    Finally got around to this; why it took so long is a mystery. But I couldn't detect any suffering from the passing of time. They made it with local corn and local malt. It was a refreshing and mildly tart easy-drinker. This brewery, halfway between Charlotte and Asheville, routinely gets high marks.


(Desperate times in hotel room call for plastic beer drinking vessel.)

~ Hitchpost Gueuze (6.5%), by Natty Greene's Brewing Company (Greensboro, NC)
    The brewery says that they make "sessionable ales and sours". I'd say that this one, aged 18 months in French Oak barrels, falls into both categories. If 6.5% can be considered sessionable. Go ahead, give it to me.


(Proper glassware at Natty Greene's impressive and comfortable new Kitchen + Market location.)

~ Center Cut Robust Porter (5.9%), by Natty Greene's Brewing Company (Greensboro, NC)
    Solid roasty and lightly smoky porter. Excellent way to enjoy the comfy environs of the upstairs lounge at Natty Greene's new Kitchen + Market north of downtown Greensboro.


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



Friday, August 18, 2017

Tracking down great beer and beer events: A Brew Lounge free service for 12 years.


Beer Event Calendar Index

I guess it takes something of a determined tenacity to keep this thing here going for now over 12 years. That actually comes rather naturally to me and maybe that can be seen too in my fondness for long distance running, training, and participating in marathons.

Consistency, on the other hand and no matter my best intentions, is not always so easy when it comes to what content and what style gets put out here for your consumption. Maybe that's human nature. Maybe it's also the "fault" or impact of changing communication (read: social media, short attention spans for starters).

The one thing that has remained both consistent here at The Brew Lounge and wildly popular with visitors to the site has been my weekly and monthly event calendar postings. Admittedly does not take a ton of writing talent, rather a whole lot of organizational skill and dogged adherence to a consistent schedule. Monthly lists just prior to the upcoming month and detailed weekly lists each Thursday morning. It didn't take long for me to discover the most likely reason that they're so wildly popular week in and week out is because -- wait for the startling revelation here -- people want to know where they can find and drink great beer. I know, mind blown right?!

Been doing it for the better part of 12 years. No more comprehensive listing of beer events anywhere in the greater Philly region has existed during that time. No question. Period. No charge, no membership, no subscription required to either list events or receive the lists. Never has been, never will be.

You likely didn't know that there's one easy place to go to see evidence of that. Yup, I've been keeping a tidy list of all the past calendars since they first began in late 2005. For some reason, recently been feeling a bit of pride for this so I figured I'd share. Not that you have much reason to go back and sift through old event calendars. But, I must say that even I'm a bit awestruck by the consistent history that I put together in this area.

Beer Event Calendar Index




© 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, August 17, 2017

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: August 17 - August 23

Still plenty of August to get your beer gig on. Here are the next seven days.

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.

Bridgeport, Pa.
Thu. 8/17; All day — One Year Anniversary Party at Conshohocken Brewpub [Tons of fun things going on including Type A Glazed Donuts made by the famous Suzy-Jo Donuts and we will also be releasing our special anniversary brew, Over the Bridge Hoppy Belgian. We will also be donating 20% of the days sales back to the Bridgeport Fire Department.  $PAYG]

Coatesville, Pa.
Sun. 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Boxcar's Speakeasy-Inspired Pop-Up Beer Garden at Brandywine Outfitters [Boxcar Beer, PA Wine and Spirits, Food Trucks, Music, Outdoor Lawn Games, and Stillwater Kayaking available.  $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.
Thu. 8/17; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Sterling Pig Tap Takeover at The Bottle Room [One of our favorite reps, Andrew, will be on hand to talk beer, make you laugh and toss some Sterling Pig swag your way.  $PAYG]

Exton, Pa.
Fri. 8/18; 4 p.m. — Firkin Friday with Levante Brewing at Suburban Restaurant & Beer Garden [Drink specials and pint glass giveaways all night.  $PAYG]

Gettysburg, Pa.
Sat. 8/19; 2:30 p.m.-7 p.m. — Gettysburg Brew Fest at Lutheran Theological Seminary [Features 150+ U.S. craft brews & ciders, produced by 50+ of the best craft breweries from Pennsylvania, the Mid-Atlantic, and across the U.S.  $20-$70]

Mount Holly, NJ
Sun. 8/20; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Remembering Rich Palmay at Village Idiot Brewing Company [We will be releasing a special beer that Rich loved especially for this occasion in Rich's honor.  $PAYG]

Parkesburg, Pa.
Sat. 8/19; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — BrewBQ 2017 at Victory Brewing Company [The competition is a two-category BBQ cook-off. Each pit master team will compete to see who can make the best chicken and ribs according to our judges. There will also be a restaurant competition for the best pulled pork.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 8/17; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Terrapin Tasting at Beer Love [Beers from Terrapin.  $PAYG]
Thu. 8/17; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Yards Brews Cruise at Yards Brewing Company [WMMR's Jacky Bam Bam and Marisa Magnatta return to keep the boat rocking while Yards' beer experts hang out on deck for samplings and some friendly brew Q & A.  $51.9]
Fri. 8/18; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Empire Sampling at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Empire.  $Free]
Sat. 8/19; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Crabfest at City Tap House-University City [Crabfest is a classic all-you-can-eat crab-a-thon. This year we're teaming up with one of our favorite breweries, Yards Brewing Co.  $35]
Sun. 8/20; 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. —  at University of the Sciences [The Pink Boots Society and USciences Brewing Science program are collaborating to present the 1st annual Women in Brewing Symposium for a discussion of key issues and advances for women in the industry.  $15-$20]
Sat. 8/12 through Sun. 8/20; All day — Pucker Up at Devil's Den [We have some new and exciting beers for you along with a few different themed nights as well. Chef Paul will be making a la carte food specials all week that will pair well with the sours on draft.  $PAYG]
Mon. 8/14 through Sun. 8/20; All day — The Pig Days of Summer at Alla Spina [Our week-long celebration will feature a series of nose-to-tail dishes such as whole pig's head, pig head bruschtetta, fried pig tails, and roasted pork sandwiches. On tap will be an incredible line-up of discounted drafts from local Baltimore Pike brewery, Sterling Pig - the perfect pairing for our array of specialty dishes.  $PAYG]
Mon. 8/21; 2:21 p.m. — Sour Eclipse at Cinder [Apparently you've gotta head south of DC to get the best view on the East Coast... but if you're stuck here in Philly with us bums, then what the hell. Let's have a party with a bunch of awesome sour beers.  $PAYG]
Mon. 8/21; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour: Duck-Rabbit at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Duck-Rabbit.  $Free]
Tue. 8/22; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping: Fegley's Brew Works at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [Beers from Fegley's Brew Works.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.
Fri. 8/18; All day — Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Our stalwart Chester County Bitter pouring along side other special firkins.  $PAYG]

Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 8/18; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Sly Fox Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [Tasting samples of beers from Sly Fox.  $Free]
Sat. 8/19; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. — Saint Benjamin Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [Tasting samples of beers from Saint Benjamin.  $Free]

Reading, Pa.
Thu. 8/17 through Sun. 8/20; All day — Beer & BBQ with Oskar Blues and Boulevard at Liberty Taproom [We will be running draft from Oskar Blues to represent our Carolina sauce and from Boulevard to represent our Kansas City sauce.  $PAYG]

Shawnee-on-Delaware, Pa.
Fri. 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25; 6 p.m. — Canoe & Brew at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company [Enjoy a 3-mile canoe trip on the scenic Delaware River followed by a flight of our very our ShawneeCraft Brewing Company brews.  $50]

Skytop, Pa.
Sat. 8/19; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Summer Beer Fest at Skytop Lodge [This outdoor event will feature live entertainment, lawn games, sampling of local and craft breweries, and food stations.  $25-$45]

West Chester, Pa.
Thu. 8/17; 3 p.m.-10 p.m. — Truth Bird IPA Can Release at Levante Brewing Company [Community comes first at Levante, so for this can release, we collaborated with a local artist LivnSol by Brian Hearns who created an aesthetic narrative for the can label, which inspired us to embody his message in liquid form.  $PAYG]
Fri. 8/18; 5 p.m. — La Cabra Brewing Happy Hour at The Side Bar [Side Bar and La Cabra Brewing are getting together for Happy Hour.  $PAYG]

York, Pa.
Sat. 8/19; 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Farm to Table: A Late Summer Field Feast at Flinchbaugh's Orchard [Enjoy an al fresco five-course dinner on the grounds of Flinchbaugh’s Orchard featuring locally sourced, sustainably grown, and ethically harvested cuisine and pairings of Nissley Winery and Collusion Tap Works best casks.  $90]




© 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, August 11, 2017

August 2017: Beer News update, part 1

Had to hold up the publishing of these notes to share with you with the trio of big news events in our small little world of beer that popped up yesterday. Read on to learn more...

~ But first, let's get started with something that pairs well with beer -- baseball. An unfortunate loss. [Link to CSNPhilly.com]

~ Another big fish gobbles up a smaller one. [Link to Brewbound]

~ Best case scenario for all involved and it keeps an important brewery and its good people in San Francisco going. [Link to San Francisco Chronicle]

~ A sudden and unfortunate ending for a landmark in Philly. [Link to Eater Philadelphia]

~ Great spotlight shining on Jon Medlinsky and his destination Martha, just down the block from Phila. Brewing Company. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Casey Parker is a wild and crazy guy. [Link to Foobooz/Philadelphia Magazine]

~ If you need a reason to ignore/dislike/hate the so-called NEIPA, here's a handy list to pick from. [Link to The Full Pint]

~ Time to link to excellent writing from Pete Brown again. This time, topic: IPAs. [Link to Pete Brown's blog]

~ I guess if you need a laugh, here's a good place to start. [Link to Brew Dog's website]

~ And one last bit of acquisition news to close out this update. This from San Francisco as well. [Link to SFGate.com, plus bonus coverage from The Full Pint and Jay Brooks.]





© 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, August 10, 2017

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: Philadelphia & beyond: August 10 - August 16

This is one of my favorite weekly calendars of the summer. Outdoor beer fun, dinners, festivals, and fun tastings can be found in the following nearly three dozen events around the greater Philly/southeastern PA regions during the next seven days. Enjoy!

As you review the listings, don't forget Philly Tap Finder. They host impressive 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.

Ardmore, Pa.
Tue. 8/15; 6:30 p.m. — Summer Lites Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Come enjoy four courses of lite fare and lighter beers under summer lights from Head Chef Brittany Jones and Senior Head Brewer Tim Stumpf.  $40]

Berwyn, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 6:30 p.m. — Dad's Hat and La Cabra Collaboration Dinner at Nectar [Nectar is partnering with our friends at Dad's Hat Distillery and La Cabra Brewing for a multi-course dinner.  $65]

Danville, Pa.
Sun. 8/13; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Knife & Barrel Exclusive Recipe Dinner at Old Forge Brewing Company [A three-course meal paired with the new Dry Hopped Saison, Imperial IPA, and Tripel Cerise. Bottles of each available for sale to go after the dinner.  $65]

Boalsburg, Pa.
Sat. 8/12; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — State College Brew Expo at Tussey Mountain Ski Area [We continue to follow the original motto and add our new slogan "Good Beer, Good Music, Great Cause!" The expo will continue to benefit Coaches vs. Cancer of Penn State.  $45-$60]

Cape May, NJ
Thu. 8/10; All day — Draft Release: Watermelon Wheat at Cape May Brewing Company [Our Watermelon Wheat doesn’t have just a hint of watermelon: we want you to be surrounded by fruity goodness.  $PAYG]

Coatesville, Pa.
Sun. 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Boxcar's Speakeasy-Inspired Pop-Up Beer Garden at Brandywine Outfitters [Boxcar Beer, PA Wine and Spirits, Food Trucks, Music, Outdoor Lawn Games, and Stillwater Kayaking available.  $PAYG]

Croydon, Pa.
Fri. 8/11; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Evolution Happy Hour at Dog and Bull [Beers from Evolution Craft Brewing Company.  $PAYG]

Exton, Pa.
Wed. 8/16; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Wicked Weed Wednesday at World Of Beer [Wicked Weed's Botanica, Brettaberry, Genesis, Pacificmost Gose, and Southern Ambrosia.  $PAYG]

Lahaska, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Thursday Night Beer School: Adjuncts & Infusions at  Free Will Taproom at Peddler's Village [Interactive flights. "Students" will receive a base flight, which they will be able to infuse with spices provided by Savory Spice.  $15]

Lancaster, Pa.
Fri. 8/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Wyndridge Tap Invasion at Federal Taphouse [A brewery representative will be present as well with some cool giveaways for anyone who purchases a Wyndridge draft.  $PAYG]
Sat. 8/12; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Patio Party Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar [Join us on the patio for a 4-course meal featuring summer party-inspired dishes paired with selections from Moo-Duck, 21st Ammendment, Columbia Kettle Works, and LBC.  $29.95]
Tue. 8/15; 6:30 p.m. — So Long Summer Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Come say goodbye to summer with five courses from Sous Chef Matt Axe paired with five delicious beers by Head Brewer Pim “Dutch” Harmsen.  $55]

Lititz, Pa.
Mon. 8/14; 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. — RSB Lancaster Beer Dinner at Bulls Head Public House [We will have a 4 course meal with 4 beer pairings, music, and fun.  $TBA]

Media, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Green Flash Night at Pinocchio's [A lineup of beers from Green Flash.  $PAYG]

Newark, Del.
Wed. 8/16; 7 p.m. — Iron Thrones Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for our 3rd annual Feast of the Iron Thrones. Five courses from Head Chef Jason Thomson paired with five delicious beers by Senior Head Brewer Justin Sproul.  $65]

Palmyra, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — New Belgium Tap Attack at Funck's [Collin will be in house pouring some great liquids, chatting about the crafts, and handing out some awesome swag.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Bell's Tasting at Beer Love [Beers from Bell's.  $PAYG]
Fri. 8/11; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Dominion Sampling at Bell Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Dominion.  $Free]
Fri. 8/11; 8 p.m. — The Philly Golden Pretzel Award Show at Varga Bar [Details to follow.  $PAYG]
Fri. 8/11 & Sat. 8/12; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Brooklyn Brewery Mash presents Philly Beer Mansion at The Woodlands Mansion & Cemetery [Part of an eight-city world tour, Beer Mansion is an interactive, multi-room celebration of beer, food, music, more beer, and community.  $55-$65]
Sat. 8/12 through Sun. 8/20; All day — Pucker Up at Devil's Den [We have some new and exciting beers for you along with a few different themed nights as well. Chef Paul will be making a la carte food specials all week that will pair well with the sours on draft.  $PAYG]
Sun. 8/13; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. — S.E.E.D. Festival at SugarHouse Casino Event Center [The area’s first fully vegan food and beer festival, an inclusive and sustainable experience that everyone can enjoy — vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike.  $35-$65]
Mon. 8/14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour: Stone at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Stone.  $Free]
Mon. 8/14 through Sun. 8/20; All day — The Pig Days of Summer at Alla Spina [Our week-long celebration will feature a series of nose-to-tail dishes such as whole pig's head, pig head bruschtetta, fried pig tails, and roasted pork sandwiches. On tap will be an incredible line-up of discounted drafts from local Baltimore Pike brewery, Sterling Pig - the perfect pairing for our array of specialty dishes.  $PAYG]
Tue. 8/15; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping: Southern Tier at Lucky's Last Chance (Manayunk) [Beers from Southern Tier.  $PAYG]
Wed. 8/16; 5 p.m. — Beer School at Local 44 [Free samples of each beer we will discuss are offered as our treat to you during the class.  $Free]

Pottstown, Pa.
Fri. 8/11; 4 p.m.-6 p.m. — Terrapin Sampling at Frank Smith Beverages [Tasting samples of beers from Terrapin.  $Free]

Shawnee-on-Delaware, Pa.
Fri. 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25; 6 p.m. — Canoe & Brew at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company [Enjoy a 3-mile canoe trip on the scenic Delaware River followed by a flight of our very our ShawneeCraft Brewing Company brews.  $50]

West Chester, Pa.
Thu. 8/10; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Stable 12 Free Samples at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Stable 12.  $Free]
Thu. 8/10; 5 p.m. — Collaboration Celebration w/ Free Will and Levante Breweries at The Side Bar [Join the teams of Side Bar, Free Will, and Levante for happy hour for a very limited release of Levante and Free Will's collaboration Cloudy Squared on draft.  $PAYG]

West Reading, Pa.
Sat. 8/12; 12 p.m.-2:30 p.m. & 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. — West Reading Craft Beer Fest at Olympian Ballroom [Founded by local people, holding a local beer event, benefiting local breweries and local charity.  $40-$45]

Wilmington, Del.
Sat. 8/12; 12 p.m.-7:30 p.m. — Wilmington Downtown Brew Fest at Chelsea Tavern [Over 100 brews representing over 40 local breweries, 3 live acts and two local DJs, 11 local restaurants and 2 local food trucks, designated VIP area including "special" brews and beer-friendly finger foods, free Lyft incentives, and Market Street's first Home Brew Competition.  $35-$50]




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