Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: October 27 - October 31

Been a busy month of beer events. Here are twenty more plus a look into early November.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

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

Cape May, NJ

Fri. 10/28; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Halloween Bash at Cape May Brewing Company [Join us in our Tasting Room for a Halloween Bash created for craft beer lovers.   $PAYG]

Carlisle, PA

Sat. 10/29; 12 p.m.-11 p.m. — Hoptoberfest at Molly Pitcher Brewing Company [Our taps will be full of seasonal brews, as well as a Firkin and a Randall Infusion.   $PAYG]

Conshohocken, Pa.

Thu. 10/27; 6 p.m. — Goose Island Hombre Secreto and The Sour Sisters at Flanigan's Boathouse [Goose Island will be pouring some super rare, limited, and awesome beers.  $PAYG]

Thu. 11/3; All Day — International Stout Day at Fingers Wings & Other Things [We saved some of our favorites for an occation like this one.  $PAYG]

Croydon, Pa.

Mon. 11/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Long Trail Cigar Dinner at Dog and Bull [Enjoy a three-course meal, which includes a hummus/cheese tray, buffet style entree, dessert, two of Long Trail's finest beers, dessert cocktail, and a cigar.  $50]

Easton, Pa.

Sat. 11/12; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — 2016 Homebrew Contest at Weyerbacher Brewing Company [The first 20 entries will be selected to compete. Registration deadline is October 8th.  $Free]

Exton, Pa.

Thu. 10/27; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Beer School 101 at Rino's Restaurant ["Back To Basics" features a five-course meal paired with special beer and cider.  $42.95]

Fri. 10/28; 8 p.m.-11 p.m. — WOBoween or Leighboween – Take your pick at World Of Beer [Come out for a stellar night of costumes, beer, and debauchery. $4 pumpkin drafts and $3 Spring House Big Gruesome cans.  $PAYG]

King of Prussia, Pa.

Fri. 10/28; 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Conshohocken Beer Dinner at Sullivan's Steakhouse [Four-course meal paired with Conshohocken's Island in the Sun Double IPA, Oktoberfest/Märzen, IPA, Puddlers Row ESB, and Burn Everything Porter  $60]

Malvern, PA

Sat. 11/5; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Learn To Homebrew Day at Fancy Camper Home Brew Supply in Malvern, PA [ We'll have demos, food, homebrew samples, and camaraderie.  $Free]

Milford, Del.

Fri. 10/28; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Halloween at Mispillion River Brewing Company [Here is the official list of reasons you won't want to miss out: Hooverville will be playing all night long; Haass' On the Go is serving up delicious food; Chipped Teeth will be releasing; and There will be prizes for the best costume and best couple's costume.  $PAYG]

Norristown, Pa.

Thu. 11/3 through Sun. 11/6; All Weekend — Fresh Hops Draft Event at Capone's [More details to come.  $PAYG]

Perkasie, Pa.

Sun. 10/30; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — Sour Sunday at Free Will Brewing Company [Costume contest every hour. Come dressed up, and each hour, on the hour, a winner will be chosen. 10+ Sour and Wild Beers on Tap.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 10/27; 12:15 p.m.-2 p.m. — Kehoe's Crossing Of The Delaware (Ave.) at Yards Brewing Company [Please join the Yards Crew in a celebratory procession from our current home at 901 N. Delaware Ave. to the future brewery's loading dock at 456 N. 5th St.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/27; 5 p.m. — Stone Brewing's 20th Anniversary at City Tap House-Logan [Come out to enjoy 8 of their beers on tap.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/27; All Day — Franconian Lager Gravity Kegs at Local 44 [Pair a pint with a German brat sandwich for just $16.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/28; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from Allagash Brewing Company.  $Free]

Fri. 10/28; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Friday Sixtel: Boaks Monster Mash at Grey Lodge Pub [This may be the last sixtel of this beer ever. Boaks closed up shop early this year. We were told we bought the last Monster Mash. It seemed appropriate to wait and tap it around Halloween.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/29; All Day — Halloween Party at Barcade [Scary draft list, spooky cocktail specials, dark music, and prizes for best costumes.  $PAYG]

Thu. 11/3; 7 p.m. — Terrapin Brewing Tap Takeover at Union Tap House [Terrapin is commandeering a few draft lines to promote their brews and give away some free swag.  $PAYG]

Sat. 11/5; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — Brawlerfest by Yards at 500 Spring Garden Street [Old school beer & music festival celebrating all things Brawler and Philly's love for the underdog. Event proceeds benefit XPN's Musicians on Call and Beat the Streets Wrestling.  $20-$55]

Sat. 11/5; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. — Chili Cook-Off for the LLS at Dawson Street Pub [All entry and judging fees will go directly to the LLS. There will be raffle items and drink specials to help raise as much money as possible for the Dude Hates Cancer benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  $25 to enter, $PAYG to attend]

Sat. 11/5; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School [You will learn how to brew great beer. Even better, you will be brewing your own beer. A brewer-instructor will guide you through the process step by step: from brew to boil to bottle.  $150]

Sat. 11/5; 1 p.m.-8 p.m. — The Great Harvest Cider and Beer Festival at The Cambridge [Spotlighting hard ciders, toasty lagers, pumpkin ales and more.  $PAYG]

Sat. 11/5; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Cannstatter Volksfestverein in Philadelphia, Pa. [Enjoy the last Oktoberfest of the season with the GTV Almrausch Schuhplattlers. So authentic, you'll think you need a passport to get home.  $10-$12]

Sat. 11/12; 2 p.m. — Beer Tasting at Earth Bread + Brewery in Philadelphia, Pa. [Taste four house beers, Victory’s Earth + Flame, salads, and flatbread buffet.  $27]

Wed. 11/16; 7 p.m. — Vegan Beer Dinner at Strangelove's [This four course Vegan feast is paired with Vegan beers.  $60]

Reading, Pa.

Thu. 10/27; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Southern Tier Pumking & Benchwarmers Doughnut Pairing at Liberty Taproom [Our goal is to bring you and unforgettable pumpkin beer & doughnut pairing to get you ready for Halloween.  $PAYG]

Wayne, Pa.

Fri. 10/28-Sun. 10/30; All weekend — Italian Beer at Teresa's Next Door [Wonderfully crafted with a multitude of ingredients to celebrate Italian Heritage Month.  $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Sun. 10/30; 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. — Craft Beer Mile at Levante Brewing Company [Feel like running around Levante Brewing four times (1 mile) while chugging beers?  $40]

Wilmington, Del.

Fri. 11/4; 7 p.m. — Beer Dinner at Hotel du Pont [A five-course meal served with Midas Touch, Namaste, Kvasir, Bitches Brew, Chateau Jiahu, Indian Brown Ale, and Pumpkin Ale.  $60]

York, Pa.

Fri. 10/28; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — 1st Annual Halloween Bash at Collusion Tap Works [Beer Releases. Stuff your face with Dough Heads waffle sandwiches. Come dressed in a costume and get a chance to win some brewery swag, beer vouchers, and a top prize of a private brewery tour and tasting with the brew staff of Collusion.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/29; All Day — Bottle Shop Grand Opening Extravaganza at Holy Hound Taproom [Breakfast served, KBS and Bourbon County bottles (limited and starting at 9 a.m.) in Bottle Shop. We will have high-profile beer tappings throughout the day.  $PAYG]

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October 2016: News update, part 2

Some big macro news accompanies the local news for the second half of October's round up of brews news. Grab a Beer and Enjoy. In no particular order...

~ Brooklyn Brewery sells 24.5% equity to Kirin from Japan. [Link to Wall Street Journal.] and [Link to The Full Pint]

~ ABIBGI is opening next to The Fillmore in Philly. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Stone's layoffs a harbinger of sobering up or a hangover? [Link to The Full Pint]

~ Very cool news from Sterling Pig in Media, Pa. where I've been enjoying watching their growth [Link to The Town Dish]

~ Oktoberfest at the 23rd Street Armory sounds/looks like a success. [Link to Philadelphia Business Journal]

~ Is Urban Village Brewing Company still coming to Northern Liberties? Might need to do some additional sleuthing. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Beer fests. Underage attendees. The controversy continues. [Link to Draft Magazine]

~ I used to live in Manayunk in the 90s pre-brewpub. Lot of time has passed since then and they're still there. [Link to Yours For Good Fermentables]

~ Grey Lodge's Mike "Scoats" Scotese added a fourth home-away-from-home to his roster. [Link to Philly Mag/Foobooz]

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Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: October 20 - October 26

I know you're all thirsty and looking to drink with some like-minded folks. Here are a couple dozen or so recommendations how to do just that.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

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

Adamstown, Pa.

Sun. 10/23; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. — Oktoberfest – The Joe Weber Band at Stoudts Brewing Company [A fun-filled family festival featuring live German polka music by The Joe Weber band, dancing, pig roast, authentic German food, and Stoudts hand-crafted lagers and ales.  $10-$50]

Berwyn, Pa.

Tue. 10/25; 3 p.m. — Grand Opening at La Cabra Brewing Company [Getting things off the ground with eight or nine beers on draft and a Latin American-themed kitchen menu.  $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.

Thu. 10/20; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Harvest Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company [A five-course meal served with Headwaters Ale, Selene Saison, Harvest Ale, Moonglow, and Zeltbier.  $55]

Exton, Pa.

Thu. 10/20; 5 p.m. — Takin' Over The Taps with Alpine at The Drafting Room [A special tapping of three awesome beers from Alpine Beer Company. Plus, souvenir glassware.  $PAYG]

Kulpsville, Pa.

Fri. 10/21; 5 p.m. — Weyerbacher Tap Takeover at CJ's Doghouse [Some great stouts and big beers to warm you on a nice, cool autumn evening.  $PAYG]

Lahaska, Pa.

Sat. 10/22; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Grand Opening at Free Will Taproom at Peddler's Village [Our newest Taproom features 8 taps, multiple seating areas, and is located overlooking the main green of Peddler's Village.  $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.

Fri. 10/21; 5 p.m. — Evil Genius Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar [All taps will be from Evil Genius Beer Co., October's featured brewery.  $PAYG]

Malvern, PA

Sat. 10/22; 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. — Homebrewing Demo at Fancy Camper Home Brew Supply [Join us at the shop for a free homebrewing demo. It's fun, educational, and informal.  $Free]

Maple Shade, NJ

Sun. 10/23; 9 p.m.-10 p.m. — Helles on Earth Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us a for the limited release of Helles on Earth, a blood orange infused Munich Helles. We will have The Walking Dead season 7 premiere on the big screen, so dress up as your favorite character or zombie.  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/25; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Halloween Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for five courses of spooky, Halloween themed cuisine from Head Chef Scot Seher Jr. perfectly paired with Helles Highwater, Ghost Pepper Mahalo, Apollo!, Oktoberfest, Out the Gate IPA, and Trubbel with Monks.  $65]

Mount Holly, NJ

Sat. 10/22; 12 p.m.-10 p.m. — 2nd Anniversary & Imperial Stout bottle release at Spellbound Brewing Company [The beer is the biggest we have ever brewed in our 20bbl brewhouse. Weighing in at 11.5% ABV, extremely heavy bodied with notes of chocolate, roasty malts, and deliciousness.  $PAYG]

Norristown, Pa.

Thu. 10/20; 12 p.m. — Box Of Hops at Capone's [Ithaca's newest Box Of Hops.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 10/20; 4 p.m. — Pumpkin Head at Standard Tap [We're tapping 8 different pumpkin beers and pouring them into hollowed out gourds.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/20; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — TerraPink:Sound Czech Yourself For Breast Cancer at Brü Craft & Wurst [Featuring our friends from Terrapin Beer Co. All proceeds from Sound Czech beers bought will be donated to a local non-profit that fights comprehensively against breast cancer.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/20; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Beers, Brewing, and Boos at Evil Genius Beer Company [Partnering with local FemALES on Broad: Barley’s Angel’s Philadelphia chapter to host a women only homebrew class and guided tasting to brew a beer and learn all about the process.  $25]

Thu. 10/20; All Day — Franconian Lager Gravity Kegs at Local 44 [Pair a pint with a German brat sandwich for just $16.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/21; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from Saint Benjamin Brewing Company.  $Free]

Fri. 10/21; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Friday Sixtel: Sam Adams & Flounder Devil’s Nectah at Grey Lodge Pub [Devil’s Nectah is a limited-edition cranberry-honey helles lager brewed by Sam Adams in conjunction with New Jersey-based brewery Flounder Brewing Co.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/22; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Brunch en Tie Dye at McCrossen's Tavern [Join us for Brunch en Tie Dye, where you can drink four great Weyerbacher beers on draft, eat delicious food, and make your very own tie dye shirt. All proceeds from Weyerbacher t-shirts will go to the Morris Animal Refuge.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/22; 12 p.m.-10 p.m. — Evil Genius Brew Garden: Final Pop-up at Evil Genius Beer Company [Attendees will enjoy happy hour pricing for anyone in costume, a special beer tapping, a Halloween costume contest, and DJ ElectroBecker.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/22 & Sun. 10/23; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Harvestfest Weekend at Hop Angel Brauhaus [Harvestfest celebrates freshly harvested food as well as wet-hopped harvest beers.  $PAYG]

Sun. 10/23; 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. — Eagles Tailgate with Iron Abbey at Lincoln Financial Field [Leave the cooking to us and enjoy.  $25]

Tue. 10/25; 8 p.m.-11 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance [A night with Allagash beers.  $PAYG]

Pottstown, Pa.

Sat. 10/22; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Pottstown Brew Fest at Manatawny Park [Come join the fun, as we sample over 150+ beers and ciders from 65+ of the best craft brewers from the Mid-Atlantic and across the United States.  $10-$75]

Reading, Pa.

Sun. 10/23; All day — PA Tap Takeover at Liberty Taproom [We plan on having 32 different Pennsylvania breweries on draft.  $PAYG]

Sellersville, Pa.

Fri. 10/21; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Pumpkin Brews at Washington House [Join us to taste an assortment of this year's best pumpkin beers.  $PAYG]

Voorhees, NJ

Fri. 10/21; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Undead Black IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [In conjunction with Voorhees Town Center’s Thriller Night, we are releasing an IPA that is lightly roasty and toasty with moderate bitterness and enough American hop character to bring back the dead.  $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Sat. 10/22; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Ride The Rails II at Boxcar Brewing Company [Come out for an event to remember as we board 1930’s style train cars and head down the historical West Chester Railroad to Glen Mills picnic park. We provide the food (a rockstar spread), Boxcar beer (all of our best brews), and live music (stellar West Chester talent of course).  $25-$45]

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Construction Update 10/15/2016: La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. is set to open

(Eight to nine drafts to be available on opening day, October 25, with more to come in the days and weeks after.)
Let's get this breaking news out of the way first thing — La Cabra Brewing Company is cleared to open its doors to the public for the first time at 3 p.m. on October 25.

They've come a long way in the last few months and since I last visited a little over a month ago. Now all the powers-that-be have given had their say and the beer lines have been hooked up to the brite/serving tanks. All that's left are some remaining construction touches and final staff prepping.

I stopped by yesterday morning to find brewer and operating partner Dan Popernack and chef John Hearn busy at work but willing to take time to show me a bit of what's changed, give me an update on the remaining week's work, and slide a few tastes of beer and food my way.

They plan to open La Cabra's doors on Tuesday, October 25 as if it was just another day of business. This way, they hope to be able to gently break in the staff, work out any kinks, and give customers the smoothest introduction in the early days and weeks to one of the area's most anticipated new brewpub ventures.

While the second floor and mezzanine room will eventually be available for private party rentals, the entire facility (total capacity around 240) will be open and available for all customers to explore in the first weeks. There's a full bar on both the first and second floors and Popernack expects to have eight or nine of his taps flowing with a variety of his beers on opening day.

(Flights of great taste at La Cabra.)
My initial samplings confirm that there will be a diverse representation of quality beers for customers to look forward to both at the bar by themselves as well as paired together on the dining room tables. The Coquette (3.5% ABV) is a wonderful display of berries in a barrel-aged fruit beer. Should work well as a light refreshing interlude (i.e. not overwhelming with fruit) or in pairings as a breakfast or dessert beer.

Belma (5.7% ABV) is a Belgian Pale Ale that takes advantage of a new experimental hop from the Pacific NW. It helps bring out a light fruit character, strawberry for one, in a very drinkable Belgian Pale. Juno (4.8% ABV) is an American Blonde Ale with Rosemary and Lime that I expect to work very well with some entries on Hearn's Latin American-themed kitchen menu.

Two IPAs should please the hop heads. One is the Tabula Rasa, deemed a Session IPA, which will be different from batch to batch and always feature a single hop. The one I tasted (4.4% ABV) showcased the always enjoyable Mosaic. The second is Leo (6.3% ABV) that Popernack is still working to find the balance in malt and hops that he is most happy with. I think he's nearly there and this will be turn out to be a great go-to IPA.

(Sneak peek, and taste, of the excellent Crispy Pork Belly to be on the menu at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)
Finally, the Cassiopeia (4.8% ABV) is an "Amber Kölsch" that Popernack is looking forward to making his own style and one that I'm looking forward to sampling more of. It definitely bucks the traditional Kölsch style guidelines but yet when I drank it along with the Crispy Pork Belly that Hearn brought out of the kitchen for me, I found myself not giving that a second thought. The roasted nature of the Cassiopeia worked nicely with the pork belly (great ratio of meat-to-fat -- very important to me) as I would imagine so too would the Roggenbier that Popernack says will be coming up in the near future.

Lots of intriguing promise awaits in Berwyn. Just a little over a week until we get to see the full production. By the way, in case you didn't pick up on it in my last update, if you're coming out from Philly by train, get off at the Berwyn station and simply cross over Lancaster Avenue that parallels the train tracks and you're there.

(First floor interior of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(First floor bar of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(First floor interior of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(First floor interior of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Cemetery gates over the second floor bar at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Second floor interior of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Second floor interior of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Memento from the now-shuttered Fritz Lumber, since 1863, across the street.)

(Back door entrance of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Back staircase and brewhouse entrance of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

(Fear not, there will be available parking in Berwyn.)

(Soon there will be a much larger sign announcing the new La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)

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More of my writing in more places; need more beer (?!)

Seems like there's always something new going on around here.

For the past year, I've been doing a beer column for the striking County Lines Magazine in Chester County, Pa. Here's a link to my last column that served as a pre-GABF 2016 look at some local brewers such as Sly Fox, Nodding Head, Conshohocken, Iron Hill, Tröegs, McKenzie Brew House, and Stoudts and their past and present experience with the massive GABF competition.

Then, for my newest thing. I never made an official announcement, so this might as well be it. Woody Chandler has moved on from his column at Ale Street News. For over ten years, he's been tracking down and reporting on the beer news all around Pennsylvania (excluding Philly, which is covered by Lee Porter).

Now I've got the keyboard. Here's a link to my first column in the Oct./Nov. 2016 issue. In it, I covered the latest news at Columbia Kettle Works, Fegley's Brew Works, Four Seasons, Free Will, Iron Hill, La Cabra, Marzoni's, Spring House, Stickman, Stoudts, Tröegs, and Victory.

If you know me well, you should know that I'm going to enjoy this gig.

Obviously in such a large state, it's impossible to cover even a quarter of the breweries and breweries-in-planning in each issue. So I'll be talking about interesting brewery news around a theme. In this issue, on such short notice 'til deadline, I simply began with Woody's home turf of Lancaster, looped out west and back to the east and the soon-to-be-brand-new La Cabra in Berwyn.

In the next issue, I'm looking to shape a theme of football in the state (high school powerhouses, college programs, pro football legends, and any crossover of football into the brewhouses). I've got a pretty good head-start on this, but if you have any insights that you'd like to see me touch on, as always, feel free to drop a note to me.

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Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: October 13 - October 19

The kids are back from GABF with some new well-deserved medals. 2SP, Flying Fish, Iron Hill, Neshaminy Creek, Two Rivers, and Yards, to be exact, and hearty congratulations to them all. You should find some of their beers at events in the area amongst the couple dozen listed below. More great stuff from a great beer drinking region. Enjoy...

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

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

Adamstown, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. & 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Breast Cancer Awareness Brewfest at Stoudts Brewing Company [Join us for a great cause, fantastic beer, a gourmet buffet, and live music.  $$TBA]

Sun. 10/16; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. — Octoberfest – Alex Meixner at Stoudts Brewing Company [A fun-filled family festival featuring live German polka music by Alex Meixner band, dancing, pig roast, authentic German food, and Stoudts hand-crafted lagers and ales.  $10-$50]

Allentown, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Fegley's Whisky Festival  at Allentown Brew Works [WIth a vast selection of the finest whiskies, scotch and bourbons from America, Canada, Ireland, and Scotland, we're prepared to have our biggest festival to date.  $25-$45]

Bear, Del.

Mon. 10/17; 6:23 p.m. — Stewart's Beer Dinner at Stewart's Brewing Company [A six-course meal served with Stewart's Anniversary Ale, Kolsch, Oktoberfest, Pumpkin Ale, Barleywine, and Highlander Stout.  $55]

Cherry Hill, NJ

Sat. 10/15; 12 p.m. — 2-Year Extravaganza and 5 can releases at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company [The Conductor, Mr. Watson Come Here I Want To See You, White IPA Variants, and more will be added.  $PAYG]

Conshohocken, Pa.

Thu. 10/13; 6 p.m. — Sly Fox & Free Will Tap Takeover at Flanigan's Boathouse [Showcasing some of the finest lagers and ales that Pennsylvania has to offer.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Conshohocken Beer Fest at A. A. Garthwaite Stadium [The event will feature over 50 local, regional and national craft beers, plus local food, tailgate games, and live music.  $10-$50]

Croydon, Pa.

Sun. 10/16; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Manayunk 20th Anniversary Brunch at Dog and Bull [We will be featuring beers on draft along with some tasty brunch specials. Andrew from Manayunk will be here to talk beer and he'll have some cool giveaways if you're nice to him.  $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 9 a.m.-10 a.m. — Beer & Yoga at Victory Brewing Company [An hour of relaxing yoga followed by a food and beer pairing.  $35]

Easton, Pa.

Sun. 10/16; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Lehigh Valley Brewers Guild Beer Festival at Two Rivers Brewing Company [A beer festival featuring beer only from Lehigh Valley craft brewers. Weyerbacher, Two Rivers, Fegley's, Funk, Hi Jinx, Sole, Lost Tavern, Colony Meadery, Yergey's, Cave, and Bonn Place are all confirmed participants.  $30]

Emmaus, Pa.

Sat. 10/15;  7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Funkin' Halloween at Funk Brewing Company [Switchback Pizza Company will be here with their mobile pizza oven of goodness. Costumes are strongly encouraged.  $PAYG]

Ewing Township, NJ

Sat. 10/15; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Oktoberfest at River Horse Brewing Company [Raise your mug and celebrate the most wonderful time of year with a new Märzen we brewed just for our Oktoberfest. Throughout the night we will also be unveiling six special casks to indulge your tastebuds.  $15+$PAYG]

Exton, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — WOBtoberfest at World of Beer [We’re pouring no fewer than 50 brews, with music from more than a few local artists.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15; 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Beer Sampling at Exton Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from Oskar Blues.  $Free]

Wed. 10/19; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Goose Island Hombre Variants at The Pour House [The draught list includes Hombre Secreto Belgian Strong Pale Ale aged in Tequila Barrels, Hombre Secreto with Mangos, Experimental, Sofie, and Four Star Pils.  $PAYG]

Kennett Square, Pa.

Thu. 10/13; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Harvest Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company [A five-course meal served with Zeltbier, Selene Saison, Vital IPA, Festbier, and Moonglow Weizenbock.  $55]

Sat. 10/15; 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Funktoberfest at The Stone Barn [Two drinks from either KBC, Rebel Seed, or Harvest Ridge and all you can eat Oktoberfest food.  $40]

Wed. 10/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Wine. Beer. Food. Pairing with Penns Woods Winery at Kennett Brewing Company [Enjoy a four-course fall themed dinner, each course paired with a KBC beer and a Penns Woods Wine.  $50]

Lancaster, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Evil Genius Saturday Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar [Enjoy a four-course meal of Isaac's favorites paired with four brewmaster picks from Evil Genius Beer Company.  $30]

Media, Pa.

Wed. 10/19; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Stone 20th Anniversary at Pinocchio's [A full lineup celebrating Stone's 20th anniversary.  $PAYG]

New Hope, Pa.

Sat. 10/15 & Sun. 10/16; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — OktoberFeast at Peddler's Village at Free Will Taproom [This family friendly festival will feature German-inspired food, live music, and a Free Will Beer Tent. We brewed a special Marzen-style lager exclusively for OctoberFeast and our Taproom in Peddler's Village.  $PAYG]

Newark, Del.

Sat. 10/15; All Day — Fall Fest at Argilla Brewing Company [Live music, killer house brews, outdoor fun, smoked meats, season-inspired eats, and games for all.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Hallowed Pumpkin Hill Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Eight pumpkin beers, one large pumpkin tapping, and a crazy pumpkin pie eating contest.  $PAYG]

Newtown, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; All Day — Pumpkinfest at Isaac Newton's [We will be tapping no less than 10 pumpkin ales while also tapping additional selections throughout the afternoon. Plus we will be featuring food specials created to complement these delicious beers.  $PAYG]

Norristown, Pa.

Thu. 10/6; 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Captain Lawrence at Capone's [Meet Dan Conway from Captain Lawrence who will bring their limited featured beer, Flaming Fury Sour, and much more.  $PAYG]

Pennside, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 12:30 p.m.-5 p.m. — Carsonia Craft Beer & Wine Amusement at Carsonia Park [Featuring local and national craft beers, wines, and ciders, local food vendors, cigars, and live music.  $35-$40]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 10/13; All Day — Franconian Lager Gravity Kegs at Local 44 [Pair a pint with a German brat sandwich for just $16.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/14; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from Anchor Brewing Company.  $Free]

Fri. 10/14; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Friday Sixtel: Saint Benjamin Rum Aged Export Stout at Grey Lodge Pub [Saint Benjamin's Export Stout aged in Pettys Island Oak Rye Rum barrels from Cooper River distillery in Camden, NJ.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Homebrew Festival at Strangelove's [Tickets include unlimited home brew samples and an open buffet.  $40]

Sat. 10/15; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. — Boulevard Brewing Road Trip & BBQ Benefiting the Morris Animal Refuge at Devil's Den [Boulevard Brewing Company has packed their bags and converted their truck into a mobile tasting room, which will roll into South Philly.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15; 3 p.m.-11 p.m. — 5th Anniversary Party at Evil Genius Beer Company [We're dusting off some classics from our cellar, as well as putting on some fresh and delicious fall beer.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/15 & Sun. 10/16; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Apple/Baconfest Weekend at Hop Angel Brauhaus [Apple ciders, apple dinner specials, and apple fun.  $PAYG]

Sun. 10/16; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Tappin' The Trucks- Brews n' Bites Block Party at Tap Room On 19th [We have partnered with Philly Mobile Food Association to bring some of the best food trucks to South Philly. In addition, We will have some awesome local breweries pouring tasty beers for you to enjoy.  $PAYG]

Sun. 10/16; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. — Ten Yards with Tom Kehoe at Jose Pistola's [It's time once again for our annual Eagles tailgate with the gang from Yards Brewing Co. We will be pouring some amazing Yards beers.  $PAYG]

Mon. 10/17; 8 p.m. — New Belgium Brewing Wood Cellar Night at McCrossen's Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa. [Join us we host Hal Doss, Wood Cellar Brewer from New Belgium Brewing.  $PAYG]

Mon. 10/17-Thu. 10/20; All Day — 20th Anniversary Kickoff at Manayunk Brewing Company [This day will mark the beginning of specials running through October 20th, including original 1996 menu items and prices, firkins, and birthday cake.  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/18; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Manayunk Brewery 20th Anniversary Party at American Sardine Bar [Celebrate 20 years of beers from Manayunk Brewing Company.  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/18; 8 p.m.-11 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance [Hardywood Park beers on tap and…a collaboration burger?  $PAYG]

Wed. 10/19; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — U Buy The Glass at The Abbaye [Keepsake refillable pint glass of Ninkasi Brewing raffle prizes and giveaways.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; All day — Goose Island Rare Takeover at Bistro on Bridge [We're cracking open our stash of Goose Island Rare and bringing out the Bourbon and Vintage Ale varieties.  $PAYG]

Sellersville, Pa.

Tue. Oct. 18 & Wed. Oct. 19; 5 p.m. — Oktoberfest Buffet at Washington House [Our buffet showcases delicious, traditional dishes such as German sausage, sauerbraten, pork schnitzel, spaetzle, a variety of hot and cold sides, salads and desserts. Our bar will also feature some of our German style beer and wine selections.  $28]

West Chester, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Ride The Rails I at Boxcar Brewing Company [Come out for an event to remember as we board 1930’s style train cars and head down the historical West Chester Railroad to Glen Mills picnic park. We provide the food (a rockstar spread), Boxcar beer (all of our best brews), and live music (stellar West Chester talent of course).  $25-$45]

Westmont, NJ

Sat. 10/15; 2 p.m.-8 p.m. — Haddon Avenue Pub Crawl at The Pour House [Participating bars include P.J. Whelihan's Pub & Restaurant, The Pour House, treno pizza bar, The Irish Mile, Keg & Kitchen, and The Taproom & Grill.  $PAYG]

York, Pa.

Sat. 10/15; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Yorktoberfest at The York Fairgrounds [We extend an invitation for you to join us for a family-friendly weekend of frothy ales, PA wines, unique vendors, local food, and live bands.  $15-$40]

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Great American Beer Festival 2016: The Results are in

This last weekend saw the annual Great American Beer Festival and judging competition come to Denver again. This weekend was also my 45th birthday. When it came down to it, I could really only choose one to sink my energy into. Mrs. Brew Lounge and I spent the weekend eating and drinking our way around Philadelphia. Went to a 20-year favorite Italian restaurant of ours for dinner. Saw the Violent Femmes in concert. And I ran in the inaugural 5000 Yards Dash at the Yards Brewing Company.

Given all that, most of the time, my phone stayed away and I simply enjoyed the weekend. However, you know I couldn't help but take a few peeks at social media and the post-announcement e-mail that was sent with all the winners listed.

I'll keep this short since I'm confident that those of you who really geek out about this kind of stuff already know about the local winners. For the benefit of those that have not yet seen the list, here's a quick rundown of the local breweries to Philadelphia that came home with some new shiny medals for their brewhouses.

First up, a few quick stats to set the stage. 1,752 breweries from 50 states plus DC submitted 7,227 beers for judging. The beers were judged in 96 categories by 264 judges from 12 countries. 254 different breweries from 37 states were awarded at least one medal. The most medals (four) were won by Überbrew in Billings, Montana. 41 breweries of 464 first-time submitting breweries won a medal. The American-style IPA continued its run as the most-entered category with 312 entries; it was won by Georgetown Brewing Company in Seattle, WA. The average number of entries per category was 75 beers. Oh, and an estimated 60,000 were in attendance at the festival in the convention center which was run with the help of 3,600 volunteers.

As a sidenote, I wonder (and would like to dig into this more) if a suggestion previously tossed around might be getting some revival. That is, as GABF continues to grow seemingly without bound if it's time to breakout regional style GABF festival and judging. That's enough for now....on to the local winners.

Delaware
  None

New Jersey
  Flying Fish Brewing Company
    **Silver** - Red Fish (category: Extra Special Bitter; 71 entries)
    **Bronze** - HopFish (category: Classic English-style Pale Ale; 38 entries)
      MY NOTES: Great to see this long-time brewery from NJ just across the river from Philly winning for a couple of its tried-and-true year-round beers. Red Fish won a GABF bronze last year and a silver in 2014. The HopFish brought home both a GABF gold and a WBC bronze in 2014.

Pennsylvania
  2SP Brewing Company
    **Gold** - The Russian (category: Imperial Stout; 91 entries)
    **Bronze** - Antonym (category: Belgian- and French-style Ale; 27 entries)
      MY NOTES: There's been little doubt that 2SP will be a star on the Philly regional stage for some time to come. That brewer Bob Barrar came over from Iron Hill where he won scores of awards through the years (plus Small Brewpub of the Year at the Media location) and recreated The Russian is another interesting aspect to the story.

  Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (Phoenixville, PA location)
    **Bronze** - Bridge Street Bock (category: Bock; 36 entries)
      MY NOTES: Iron Hill takes home at least one award in the 20th consecutive year. Now that...how 'bout that?

  Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company
    **Bronze** - Churchville Lager (category: Vienna-style Lager; 67 entries)
    **Bronze** - Croydon Is Burning (category: Smoke Beer; 65 entries)
      MY NOTES: Our lager-winning ways continue. And Neshaminy Creek is well-deserved to carry the mantle. The excellent Churchville Lager took home a GABF gold in 2013.

  Two Rivers Brewing Company
    **Gold** - Six Finger Sam Saison (category: Specialty Saison; 92 entries)
      MY NOTES: Funny how back when I was writing my book, I couldn't tell for sure whether Two Rivers in Easton would ever come to fruition. They were serving other commercial beers with the promise of someday having their own brewhouse. That day has come and now a lot more people are aware of it and searching for a way to Easton.

  Yards Brewing Company
    **Silver** - Love Stout (category: Classic Irish-style Dry Stout; 41 entries)
      MY NOTES: Just the other day, I vented about wanting more high quality Irish Dry Stouts. Good thing I have access to this great one in my backyard. Always have. And, when at Yards on Sunday, was even more compelled to pick up another six-pack. Maybe a sixtel is in order next time.

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October 2016: News update, part 1

Let's go with this quick and easy format for a twice-monthly news update so that I can look like I'm staying on top of things around here.

~ Harrisburg has a new brewery. Hoping to stop by there later this month. Jeff Musselman, formerly of Tröegs, is involved. [Link to Millworks]

~ Selling out? I prefer to simply call it selling. A well-reasoned approach to the never-ending debate. [Link to Modern Times]

~ Can't say I saw this one coming. Roy Pitz from south-central PA (Chambersburg, to be exact, in Franklin County) opening up an outpost in Philly. [Link to Philly.com]

~ Stone is finally up and running in Berlin. Pretty cool stuff. [Link to Stone on YouTube]

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Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: October 6 - October 12

As you're reading this, the brewing world is divided into two camps - those in Denver for GABF and those that are back home. I'm counted amongst the latter and will be monitoring the airwaves on Saturday afternoon for medal-winning local breweries at the world's largest and most respected beer judging competition. For those of us back home, here's a list of fine events at which we can remind ourselves how good we have it around these Philly parts.

As you review beer events, don't forget PhillyTapFinder.com. They host an impressive listing of beer event draft lists to help better inform your beer event planning.

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

Adamstown, Pa.

Sun. 10/9; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. — Oktoberfest – Mountain Xpress at Stoudts Brewing Company [A fun-filled family festival featuring live German polka music by Mountain Xpress, dancing, pig roast, authentic German food, and Stoudts hand-crafted lagers and ales.  $10-$50]

Bethlehem, Pa.

Thu. 10/6; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works [Entire proceeds from the charity cask will be donated to a local organization.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/6; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works [The entire proceeds of the first Thursday’s “Charity Cask Night” will be donated to a local non-profit organization.  $PAYG]

Fri. 9/30-Sun. 10/2 & Fri. 10/7-Sun. 10/9; All weekend — Oktoberfest at SteelStacks [Featuring brew samples, live music, authentic German food and beer, as well as attractions such as the axe-wielding lumberjacks of the Great Lakes Timber Show, captivating fringe festival acts, an elimination-style ice sculpting competition, the popular dachshund races, local artisans and more.  $Free + $PAYG]

Dover, Del.

Sat. 10/8; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Cheesetoberfest at Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company [Our unique twist on the traditional German Octoberfest. 20-25 local restaurants will go head to head showcasing their best grilled cheese and or mac and cheese dish to see who will be crowned the Grand Cheezmo.  $20-$60]

King of Prussia, Pa.

Thu. 10/6 & Sat. 10/8; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m.; 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Beerfest Royale at King of Prussia Mall Parking Lot [Join us under outdoor grand tents for 100+ beers, food from KOP’s best restaurants, live music on two stages, a cigar lounge, and much more.  $15-$75]

Kulpsville, Pa.

Sat. 10/8; 3 p.m. — Firestone Walker Vintage Ale at CJ's Doghouse [2013-2014 Flights of Anniversary, Parabola, Sacuba, Stickee Monkee.  $30]

Lancaster, Pa.

Thu. 10/6; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Bullfrog Brewery Tap Invasion at Hunger N Thirst [These guys make some excellent beer and will be bringing some rare sour and barrel aged treats.  $PAYG]

Media, Pa.

Thu. 10/6; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Long Trail Citrus Limbo at Pinocchio's [Limbo, Citrus Limbo, Unearthed.  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/11; 4 p.m. — Hook & Lager Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the release of this traditional German lager brewed in conjunction with the Media Fire & Hook & Ladder Company No.1.  $PAYG]

Newark, Del.

Thu. 10/6; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — Drink For Pink at Argilla Brewing Company [Live music, Drink For Pink Ale, Special food menu, and 50/50 raffle.  $PAYG]

Parkesburg, Pa.

Sat. 10/8; 12 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Victory Brewing Company [Enjoy a day fun-filled day featuring live music, a kids zone, corn hole, and more.  $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 10/6; 7 p.m. — Goose Island Sour Sisters at Jon's Bar & Grille [Draft List: Halia; Lolita; Juliet; Sofie; Matilda  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/6; 7 p.m. — Free Will Brewing Tap Takeover at Union Tap House [Free Will is taking over the taps, and giving out some free swag.  $PAYG]

Thu. 10/6; All Day — Franconian Lager Gravity Kegs at Local 44 [Pair a pint with a German brat sandwich for just $16.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/7; 3 p.m.-6 p.m. — Friday Night Tasting at Bell Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from SweetWater Brewing Company.  $Free]

Fri. 10/7; 5 p.m. — First Friday Event at Bottle Bar East [Firestone Walker tasting and taps.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/7; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — First Friday Sixtel: Ballantine Burton Ale at Grey Lodge Pub [Ballantine Burton Ale was first brewed in Newark in the 1930s and aged for up to 20 years in American oak.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/7; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — Ballantine IPA Bar Buy at Grey Lodge Pub [Jenna from Ballantine will be on hand with her credit card. She wants to buy you a pint of Ballantine IPA.  $PAYG]

Fri. 10/7; 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Belgian Beer Experience at Philly Beer School [Experience the essential Belgian beer styles; and learn why Belgium is beer heaven.  $48.98]

Fri. 10/7-Sun. 10/9; All Weekend — Armory Oktoberfest at 23rd Street Armory [We will decorate the 23rd Street Armory fortress-like structure in West Center City to mimic an authentic Munich festival tent. Traditional Oktoberfest food will be served and beer will be provided by the famous Hofbräuhaus.  $45-$65]

Sat. 10/8; 12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Thirstoberfest at Memphis Taproom [Join us in the beer garden for an unabashed celebration of the finest people in the brewing industry.  $PAYG]

Sat. 10/8; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Northeast Philly Fall Fest at Cannstatter’s [A souvenir tasting glass and the freedom to sample beer from any of the 75+ brews present at the festival.  $25-$45]

Sun. 10/9; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. — Pumpkin Smash at City Tap House-University City [Start off the fall season the best way possible by enjoying over 25 pumpkin beers on tap and mouthwatering pumpkin inspired brunch dishes.  $10]

Sun. 10/9; 7 p.m. — Savage Sixtel Sunday featuring Highway Manor at Kite & Key [Line up now because as always we will be breaking open the vault to line the taps. The Eagles play the Lions that day, so let the Wentz wagon roll.  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/11; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — The World Atlas of Beer East Coast Launch at Tria Taproom [Stephen Beaumont and Tim Webb will hang out to sign copies of the book (for sale at the bar, before you can even get it on Amazon!).  $PAYG]

Tue. 10/11; 8:30 p.m.-10 p.m. — The World Atlas of Beer Tutored Tasting at Tria Taproom [Stephen Beaumont and Tim Webb will be doing a tutored tasting of six rare beers from around the world, plus you get the signed book, plenty of tasty snacks, and lots of face time with the smart, engaging authors.  $65]

Tue. 10/11; 8 p.m.-11 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping at Lucky's Last Chance [Dark Horse's Black IPA, Crooked Tree IPA, and Boubon Barrel-aged Scotty Karate on tap. Acoustic tunes with Katie Burke.  $PAYG]

Wed. 10/12; All Day — 5th Anniversary Party at Barcade [Join us in celebrating our 5th anniversary in Philadelphia.  $PAYG]

Wed. 10/12; 5 p.m. — Manayunk Brewing 20th Anniversary Celebration at Local 44 [We'll be pouring their 20th Anniversary Ale (fermented with house Belgian yeast and a hint of Brett and aged on Chardonnay and Muscat grapes) along with Drain Pour, Hoppa Smurf, Krooks Mill Pale, Renner's Red, and Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch.  $PAYG]

Wed. 10/12; 5 p.m. — Alpine Brewing Night at Jon's Bar & Grille [Free glass with purchase of a pint of Hoppy Birthday or Duet.  $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Fri. 10/7; 5 p.m. — First Friday Firkin Cask Conditioned Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the release of our Pumpkin Ale’s big brother, brewed with molasses and Belgian candi sugar along with pumpkin spices.  $PAYG]

Scranton, Pa.

Fri. 10/7-Sun. 10/9; All Weekend — Fall Fest at Backyard Ale House [Featuring live music, festival food, beer tastings, masskrug, chili cook-off, and more.  $PAYG]

Sellersville, Pa.

Fri. 10/7; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Oktoberfest Beers at Washington House [Kick off Oktoberfest in style with nine German beer styles to choose from. Our chef will recommend the perfect dinner pairings with the beers.  $PAYG]

Somerdale, NJ

Sat. 10/8; 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Oktoberfest at Flying Fish Brewing Company [All proceeds benefit Freedom Center for Wildlife. Festivities include…..delicious authentic German cuisine, the best craft beer, free brewery tours, meeting Animal Ambassadors, Tricky Tray Auction. Sponsored by Wild Birds Unlimited of Cherry Hill.  $35-$40]

West Chester, Pa.

Fri. 10/7; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Samples at Goshen Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from New Belgium.  $Free]

Yardley, Pa.

Sun. 10/9; 11:30 a.m. — 4 Year Anniversary at Vault Brewing Company [This time around, we’re releasing two Russian Imperial Stouts.  $PAYG]

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Construction Update: La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa. - 9/9/2016

(Looking south across Lancaster Avenue at the future home of La Cabra Brewing Company in Berywn, Pa.)
La Cabra Brewing Company is shaping up to be one of the Philadelphia area's most anticipated new brewpub ventures of 2016. With nearly all the licensing and inspection hurdles out of the way, it's construction progress and finishing touches that will pave the critical path to an anticipated opening date in late October/early November.

(In the brewhouse at the future home of La Cabra Brewing Company — Chuck Golder, GM, and Dan Popernack, Brewer and Operating Partner)
Dan Popernack (Operating Partner and, currently sole, brewer), Chuck Golder (General Manager), and John Hearn (Chef) are the three faces that will be most commonly seen at the two-story brewpub across from the Berwyn train station. They project to eventually have 30-40 staff covering the combined front- and back-of-the-house operations.

The kitchen staff will be turning out a menu that is being described as Latin-American, a cuisine that Popernack, with his South American travels and time lived in Spain, believes has plenty of untapped pairing potential with the beer world. Additionally, in his former life, he was a high school Spanish teacher. Golder has worked his entire career in food and beverage, most recently at Merion Country Club. With this team, Popernack reports feeling "blessed because both the left and right hands of the business are strong" and they "wouldn't be where we are today otherwise" and he "wouldn't be as confident as I am looking forward to opening" if it wasn't for the dependable experience across the board at La Cabra.

(Customers will have a second floor glimpse into the brewhouse at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)
Popernack grew his brewing prowess from his Malvern home garage while he sought the perfect location for his business vision. After nearly two years of searching, he and the executive partnership group (comprised of six individuals in total that he says shares his same passion for the brewpub's vision) purchased the location at 642 Lancaster Avenue, former home of a futon business and a spot that they were assured "could never house a brewery".

In fact, it will house two floors with multiple rooms and seating areas for customers, a full brewhouse, a basement with upwards of 100 new American oak barrels, and two bars running 12 CO2 draft lines, 1 local cider tap, 1 nitrogen tap, 2 handpumps, and a PA bottled wine list. Coming out of the brewhouse, Popernack expects to do it all up and down the spectrum of beer styles from big beers to easy-drinking approachable beers. His passion has shown through in barrel-aged and sour beers and admittedly will ultimately settle into a menu that is most well-received by the customers.

(Barrels will play an important role in the beer menu at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)
Berwyn has been making a slow transformation from a town often seen as a drive-through from Wayne to Paoli along Lancaster Avenue (route 30). There's a recently new pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks and continued development taking place (e.g. longtime Fritz's Lumber has been sold and will be cleared for future development) that La Cabra looks to be part of in making Berwyn a more walkable town of destination bars, restaurants, and shops. Maybe not ultimately like nearby Wayne, but much more than it was ten years ago. Between on-street parking, train station parking, and nearly 40 additional parking spaces being made available behind La Cabra, it's good to see that this important aspect is also being addressed.

I look forward to what thus far sounds like a very promising brewing establishment addition to the area. Considering that between Tired Hands and Iron Hill in Ardmore and Victory in Downingtown, the only other brewing entity along the "Main Line" is McKenzie Brew House, La Cabra should certainly have little trouble tapping into a thirsty beer crowd. And, in Berwyn, there's certainly space for them amongst an already diverse set of established restaurants and bars such as Fellini's (byo Italian), Tiramisu (unique Jewish-Roman), Berwyn Tavern (a down-to-earth bar), Casey's (similar to BT), 30 Main (live music), Nectar (upscale), and others.

Popernack sees this as an advantage and vows to "bend over backwards to grow in Berwyn and work with the community". He mentioned in describing the La Cabra vision how "gran vecino" is the brewpub's motto which literally translates to "great neighbor".

(You'll get plenty of reminders of what La Cabra translates to at La Cabra Brewing Company in Berwyn, Pa.)
Also, with regard to the name La Cabra which translates to goat in Spanish - that "goats are intelligent, persistent, and fun. And who can look at a goat and not say 'I'd like to hang out with a goat'?!" Which ties into another important concept to Popernack and the team - fun. "If beer becomes unfun," he says, "we're losing our critical advantage over other beverages."

Furthermore, he and the ownership group see value beyond the beer and beyond the profits - that is, giving employees a "positive environment in which to work" and "supporting charitable groups in everyday operations", something that he hopes to grow quickly into a standard program at La Cabra.

Lots of potential goodness brewing at La Cabra in Berwyn. Being nearly in my backyard has me excited for this to finally come to fruition and you can bet I'll be reporting back frequently as it grows.

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