The Brew Lounge

Friday, December 16, 2016

Beer books for Christmas - From the Mid-Atlantic to The World, read all about it

(UK cover)

There's nothing like a good beer book to gift for those beer friends, and even yourself, at this holiday time of year. I'm sure you expect me to promote mine and I will later down below. But much more significantly is the second edition of the comprehensive second edition of World Atlas of Beer.

I've finally had some time to dig into the World Atlas of Beer, given to me when authors Stephen Beaumont and Tim Webb visited Philadelphia two months ago. Of the two covers above, I have the UK version which I actually prefer to the US version.

It had been four years since the first edition was released and, hard as it might be to believe, much has changed in the world of beer since then. Beaumont and Webb took notice in the foreward where Webb acknowledges that "Our greatest challenge has been to present the different types of ale, lager, lambic, and mixed-fermentation beers that populate a beer market liberated from the constraints of uniformity." In the introduction, Beaumont adds that "Today, we cast our gaze upon twice that number, including Switzerland and Poland, China, and Israel - nations that previously merited but a sentence of two and now boast their own sections."

The book then dispenses the requisite definition of beer, its ingredients, and the brewing process. An interesting twist is found on page 35, where beer styles of the world are contained within one table and annotated with six columns comparing the associated "folk origins", "classic status", "extreme credentials", "alcoholic strength", "serious intent", and "historic influence". Webb and Beaumont, no doubt, think about their beer as much as they drink it.

The remaining 200+ color- and fact-filled pages traverse the world by continent, country, and sometimes region/style within country, leaving no pallet unturned. Each section melds discussion of both the styles, breweries, and people sigificant to the beer culture of the area. Here in the northeast, veteran brewers from Yuengling to Allagash, Boston Beer, Brooklyn, Dogfish Head, and Victory are spotlighted as are new breweries in the past five years such as Bluejacket, Double Nickel, Maine, and Tired Hands.

Even when eventually getting to areas of the world with little to speak of beer-wise, "The Rest of the World" captures some nuggets worth knowing in "Israel & The Middle East", "India & Sri Lanka", "South Africa", and "The Rest of Africa".

The book concludes with a useful and comprehensive "Enjoying Beer" section that covers buying, storing, pouring, and pairing beer and even includes a couple of valuable pages concerned with the identification of off-flavors in beer.

It will take me some time to get through the entire book, but Webb and Beaumont as world tour guides have made the journey much more tastefully enjoyable.

Then there's my book — Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic. As you know if you regularly check in here at The Brew Lounge, I've barely slouched at all in promoting it during the last year-and-a-half since it was first released. There's a risk that these kind of books can look dated over time.

I'm quite pleased to say that it now - two years after the manuscript was submitted to the publisher - continues to stand the test of time rather well. While I obviously have no control over openings and closings, I included in the book roughly 320 establishments that I vetted for the sake of being concerned about just this point. Of course, plenty of places have opened and I accounted for those that I knew about in 2013-2015. As we all know, many more have come since then.

As for closures, I'm happy to report that only three places have closed that I included in the book. Baying Hound in Rockville, Md. Gamble Mill in Bellefonte, Pa. And, Nodding Head in Philly. Not too bad if I do say so.

While I claim to have nothing close to any talent in the realm of the guys behind the World Atlas of Beer, my book project represented a similarly ambitious endeavor focused on the beer world of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. I sure hope you have your own copy. If you don't, click here for quick delivery from Amazon, or drop an e-mail to me if you're local to southeastern PA and I'll personally hand off a signed copy to you in time for the holidays.

© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2016. 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, December 15, 2016

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: December 15 - December 21

Ah, these first world beer drinking problems. So much to be thankful for this holiday season (at least beer-wise!), so use this list and check it twice for places to show your appreciation. Philly sleeps for no savvy beer drinker. Mistletoe not included.

And it's that special gift-giving time of year again, so I'm inclined to remind you again of my book, Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic. To buy, send a note to me for personal signing and delivery, ping Amazon.com, or drop by your local bookstore such as Barnes & Noble.

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.

Downingtown, Pa.

Tue. 12/20; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Tired Hands Tap Takeover at The Bottle Room [We plan to really shake things up with this event so come out and meet some of the organoleptic cartographers from Tired Hands and try some of their strange and beautiful beers. Special event glassware designed by the creative crew at Tired Hands will be available. $PAYG]

Easton, Pa.

Sun. 12/18; 10 a.m. — Yoga at the Brewery at Weyerbacher Brewing Company [Includes the class, a beer cocktail, and some snacks afterwards. $20]

Lancaster, Pa.

Fri. 12/16; 1 p.m. — Beer Geek Christmas at Hunger N Thirst [We are rolling out some rare kegs once again to celebrate all things craft beer. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/16; 5 p.m. — Weyerbacher Tap Takeover at Isaac's Pickle Bar [All taps will be from Weyerbacher, December's featured brewery. $PAYG]

Lititz, Pa.

Mon. 12/19; 6 p.m. — Victory Java Cask Firkin Event at Bulls Head Public House [We will also be putting Dirt Wolf, Winter Cheers, and Golden Monkey. $PAYG]

Norristown, Pa.

Fri. 12/16; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Tool Box Draft Event at Capone's [If you like sours this is a must event. $PAYG]

Parkesburg, Pa.

Sun. 12/18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at Victory Brewing Company [Santa will be here taking pictures with the kids and hearing what they want most for Christmas. $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 12/15; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. — Star War Rogue One Movie Release Party with Rogue Brewing at The Institute [Come eat, drink, and watch some Classic Star Wars movies on our giant projection screen on the 2nd floor. Then at 9:30pm we treat all the customers that came out for the event to a late night showing of the latest Star Wars movie Rogue One on us. In honor of this event it only seemed right that we do a Rogue Brewing Tap Takeover. $PAYG]

Thu. 12/15; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Mad Elf Night at Hop Angel Brauhaus [The annual holiday rite of passage. $PAYG]

Thu. 12/15; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — South Philly Goes to the Movies 3.0 at The P.O.P.E. & The Industry Bar [Includes Allagash, Founders, and Brooklyn beers, admittance to the theater for Rogue One, and a raffle ticket to win nice prizes from the participating breweries. $25]

Fri. 12/16; 6 p.m. — Friday’s Sixtel: Smuttynose Smistletoe at Grey Lodge Pub [A festive take on Bière de Garde, brewed with sweet cherries, black currants and plums then aged on lightly toasted American oak. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/16; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Penn St. Nikolaus Reserve - 2 Year Vertical at Grey Lodge Pub [This big lager weighs in at 9% ABV. Order a pint of 2016 St. Nik Reserve and get 5oz of 2015 St Nik Reserve for free. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/17; 12 p.m. — Grand Opening at Brewery Ars [We should have 4 beers on draft. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/17; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Caturday at Philadelphia Brewing Company [Meet Pennsylvania SPCA adoptable kitties in the tasting room. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/17; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — A Very Jerry Christmas Christmas Party at City Tap House-Logan [A morning of tunes from The Butchy Band, Philly's best Jerry Garcia tribute, paired with the fantastic beers of Port & Lost Abbey Brewing Co. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/18; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at City Tap House-University City [Kids under 10 eat complimentary and pictures of Santa are, of course, included. A $10 donation to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House is suggested. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/18; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Festivus! at Grey Lodge Pub [Once again this will be a traditional, old fashioned Festivus with all the trimmings including the beautiful unadorned aluminum pole. We are still looking for a fruitcake to display (but not eat). $PAYG]

Mon. 12/19; 4:30 p.m. dinner; 7 p.m. movie — Star Wars: Rogue One, Dinner and a Movie at City Tap House-University City [Two full pints of Victory beer, access to our out of this world pizza buffet, and a ticket to a private showing of Star Wars Rogue One. Movie ticket only, also available $10.50-$35]

Mon. 12/19; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop [Complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections of beers from Neshaminy Creek. $Free]

Tue. 12/20; 7 p.m. — A Very Vegan, Beery Cheery Industry Holiday Celebration at Brigantessa [The lovely Sophia Tran of Hardywood Park Craft Brewing is providing the beer, with pairings for four vegan pizzas. We will also be sipping the very elusive Bourbon Sidamo amongst other Hardywood treats. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/20; 8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping–Victory at Lucky's Last Chance [A night of special beers from Victory. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/21; 3 p.m. — Winter Beer Night at Barcade [Celebrate winter with some rare and special brews. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/21; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Weyerbacher Wednesday: Mellow Monks at Hop Angel Brauhaus [Buy a pint of Weyerbacher, keep the glass. Sean from Weyerbacher will have other goodies too. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/21; 7 p.m. — Feast of the Seven Fishes Christmas Stroll at Sancho Pistola's [7 Bars, 7 Fishes, $7 Each, and craft beer specials. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/21; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — You Buy the Glass Night at The Abbaye [Keepsake glass, raffles, prizes, and giveaways from Tröegs. $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Fri. 12/16; All Day — Third Friday Firkin Fest at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Stop by to see which delicious brews will be on the hand pumps next to our stalwart Chester County Bitter. $PAYG]

Reading, Pa.

Thu. 12/15; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Beer & Brownie Pairing at Liberty Taproom [This will be a four beer flight featuring Oarsman, Java Stout, Double Cream Stout, and Bourbon Barrel Aged Hell Hath No Fury. $PAYG]

Royersford, Pa.

Sat. 12/17; 5 p.m. — Anniversary Party at Stickman Brews [Tickets include a buffet-style session from Wild Blue Creative Catering in King of Prussia, a concert from The Whiskeyhickon Boys, a free Stickman Belgian pint glass, and first fill. $26]

Voorhees, NJ

Fri. 12/16; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Save the Galaxy Gala Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Celebrate the release of Star Wars Rogue One and Iron Hill's Galaxy Far, Far Away IPA. Wear your best costume for a chance to win free tickets to the evening release. $PAYG]

Wayne, Pa.

Thu. 12/15; 5 p.m. — Toolbox Brewing is Here at Teresa's Next Door [In order to properly showcase their excellence we'll have six on draft. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/16; 5 p.m. — Teresa's welcomes the new Firestone Walker Rep at Teresa's Next Door [Come out and welcome the new (and slightly louder) Firestone Walker rep. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Sun. 12/18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Brunch w/ Santa, Hops & Sours at The Side Bar [Our draft list will be packed solid with hops and sours. $PAYG]

Wilmington, Del.

Sat. 12/17; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — The Darkside Party Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the Delaware Valley’s premier dark beer event. 16 dark beers on tap from Iron Hill and guest breweries. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/17; 3 p.m. — Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer Tasting at World Café Live [We have taken two of the best things on earth and paired them together in unexpected and delicious ways. $40]

Mon. 12/19; 5 p.m. — 5th Anniversary Party at Ulysses Gastropub [We'll be rafflleing off an awesome basket from an awesome brewery every Thursday for the entire month of December as well as 5 super cool baskets on our actual anny, 12/19. $PAYG]

Monday, December 12, 2016

Conshohocken Brewing has a Brewpub in Bridgeport

(The aesthetically pleasing interior of the Bridgeport Brewpug for Conshohocken Brewing Company.)
My first instinct was to apologize for not yet having been to Conshohocken Brewing Company's new brewpub location in neighboring Bridgeport. After all, it'd been open since, what, the late spring/early summer, right?

I was quickly reassured that I could easily be excused since it's only been about ten weeks. Well, whaddya know, I suppose that with its brewery HQ along the Schuylkill River Trail in Conshohocken nearing the third anniversary, my perception of time is a bit askew.

Regardless of the when and how of it all, I was pleased to find myself at the brewpub this past weekend after an invitation from brewery investor (and sports writer and talk radio host, plus Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame inductee) Glen Macnow. Not surprisingly, the friends and family list of Macnow's includes a distinguished list of local notable sports figures, both on and off the field.

But that wasn't the nature of my visit (well, aside from personal pictures with Mike Quick and Ray Didinger - not that it really requires disclosure, rather an FYI, I suppose). I've been a steadfast follower and appreciator of the solid beers that Conshohocken has been putting out in the market. The Puddler's Row ESB has been a past occupant on my kegerator's tap tower at home. Its one of their flagship beers that deserves all the attention that it gets (as well as plenty more that it deserves to get if "true" beer fans open their minds and palates). I went as far to include it on my list of 20 beers that attendees should seek out when in Philly earlier this year for the Craft Brewers Conference.

(A 3-barrel brewhouse (6-barrel fermenters) helps satisfy thirsts in Bridgeport.)
The brewery's collaboration with La Colombe - Tandem "Belgian-style Coffee Ale" - has been a dependable favorite of mine as has Island In The Sun Double IPA (8.9% with fresh pineapple). At the new Bridgeport brewpub, you can expect to find these plus core brands in addition to plenty of experimentation with new beers and styles from the on-site three-barrel brewing system (six-barrel fermenters). It's just large enough to supply the pub and, every once in a while, send some kegs back to the brewery's Taproom in Conshohocken.

The Head Brewer, Andrew Horne, is responsible for both locations as they bounce brewers between the two locations on an as-needed basis. At the Bridgeport Brewpub, the standards flow from the tap but beer lovers will also notice a couple of barrel-aged beers. As of my visit, Ten Ton Hammer (8.6% - bourbon barrel Doppelbock) and My Sweet Shadow (10% - bourbon barrel Baltic Porter) were impressing the crowd as were three others north of 8% ABV. The two barrel-aged beers are also available in a gift pack (plus glassware) perfect at this time of year.

Standouts new to me on the remainder of the draft list included the easy-drinking Ghost Bear Golden Ale (5.4% and available in 16-oz. cans), the roasty and chocolatey Henning's Stout (4.5% with English malts), and Red Eye Red Ale (4.5% deftly combining chocolate and crystal malts with Simcoe, Mosaic, and Chinook hops). Also on the menu, but untried by me, was Horne's first release of a kettle-soured beer - Shot Through The Tart (6.1% with Jarrylo and Mosaic hops). If I do some straight-average math on the non-Imperial draft list, it comes out to 5.5%. Not too shabby in my opinion.

(Welcome to Bridgeport and Conshohocken Brewing's newest location.)
The ambiance, as you should be able to glean from the lead picture here, is quite comfortable. An open, airy two-floor layout has great sight lines that showcase the depth, the height, and generally speaking, space of the brewpub. For those that love the beer, but find the production brewery and its Taproom lacking for food or comfortable space, the brewpub satisfies on both counts.

Did I mention they have a fairly substantial parking lot? That they have something called Burger Mondays and Taco Tuesdays? That they have a kid-friendly menu? That truffle fries (with Pork Belly Bits?!!) scream out from the menu? And that on the 2017 wishlist is an outdoor beer garden with views of the Schuylkill River, which runs adjacent to the parking lot?

Conshohocken has been nicely growing its brewing presence in the region over the last couple of years and I look forward to the team solidifying its position as a go-to local brewery that comes to mind when discussing the best our region has to offer. I owe it to myself to return soon for a fuller experience with the kitchen menu and, naturally, more beer sampling. Until then, I'm interested to hear if you've been there and your opinions.

(Difficult to miss the Conshohocken Brewing Company brewpub building in Bridgeport, PA.)

(A couple Philadelphia sports legends and friends - Mike Quick and Phil Martelli - flank brewery investor Glen Macnow, himself a legend on the Philadelphia sports scene.)

(Just the Bridgeport edge of the Schuylkill River sits the new Bridgeport Brewpub of Conshohocken Brewing Company, with plenty of parking.)

(The Eagles Pep Band showed up to fire up the crowd.)

Friday, December 09, 2016

December 2016: News update, part 1

Gathered up a few things to share with you here in my twice-monthly update. Quite a bit of new opening activity as we approach year-end.

~ One out near Pittsburgh, in Coraopolis, named Cobblehaus. [Link to The Post Gazette]

~ And another near Pittsburgh, Washington County to be exact, going by the geographically appropriate Coal Tipple. [Link to The Post Gazette]

~ One back here near home in Bethlehem called Bonn Place. [Link to The Town Dish]

~ And an opening next Saturday for Brewery Ars in South Philly. [Link to Philly Beer Scene]

~ Did you hear that Flying Fish Crafthouse opened? [Link to The Brew Lounge]

~ Did you also hear that Fork & Ale is opening softly (pictured above)? [Link to The Brew Lounge]

~ Count me as one not excited to see these beers from Avery go by the wayside. [Link to Draft Magazine]

~ But do count me as one that's very excited to see this 2SP beer in cans. [Link to 2SP website]

~ And, last but not least, I'll be on the radio today at 12:45 p.m. eastern. [Link to The Town Dish]

Thursday, December 08, 2016

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: December 8 - December 14

We've entered the thick of the holiday season and your local breweries and pubs are there to help you keep you hydrated and sane. Check out what they have to offer you over the next seven days.

And it's that special gift-giving time of year again, so I'm inclined to remind you again of my book, Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic. To buy, send a note to me for personal signing and delivery, ping Amazon.com, or drop by your local bookstore such as Barnes & Noble.

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.

Cherry Hill, NJ

Sat. 12/10; 12 p.m.-9 p.m. — Funky Beer & Holiday Bazaar at Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company [Local vendors and funky/sour/rare beers. $PAYG]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Fri. 12/9; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Party Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Four of our favorite holiday brews on tap together for a limited time. $PAYG]

Kennett Square, Pa.

Sun. 12/11; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at Kennett Brewing Company [Santa will be here taking pictures with the kids and hearing what they want most for Christmas. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/13; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Holiday Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company [A five-course meal paired with BB#4 Oatmeal Porter, KSQ Smash Lager, KSQ New Zealand IPA, Moonglow Weizenbock, and Java Cask Rye. $65]

Lancaster, Pa.

Thu. 12/8; 7 p.m. — Tröegs Beer Dinner at Federal Taphouse [A four-course dinner paired with Tröegs' 2015 Vintage Mad Elf, Scratch #257 Dry-Hopped Sour, DreamWeaver Wheat, and Blizzard of Hops IPA. $40]

Sat. 12/10; 12 p.m. — Scrooge IPA Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the release of this American-style IPA with full malt flavor. Dry hopped with one pound of hops per barrel. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/10; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — Weyerbacher Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar [Enjoy a four-course meal paired perfectly with brewmaster picks from Weyerbacher. $30]

Newtown, Pa.

Thu. 12/8; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — Allagash Brewing Tap Takeover at Isaac Newton's [A night of beers from Allagash. $PAYG]

Norristown, Pa.

Thu. 12/8; 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Tröegs Draft Event at Capone's [We will have eight vertical years of Mad Elf on Draft — 2009 thru 2016. $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 12/8; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Take a Shine to Shiner at Hop Angel Brauhaus [Shiner's Oktoberfest, Wicked Ram IPA, and White Wing Belgian White. Keep the glass. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/9; 4 p.m.-11 p.m. — Brooklyn Brewery Tap & Menu Takeover at Pizzeria Vetri-Rittenhouse [A collaboration with four special beers on tap and four special pizzas. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/9; 5 p.m.-11 p.m. — Christmas Extravaganza at Kite & Key [Santa is back and ready to get his final bender going before he takes to the sleigh. This event is NOT for the kids. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/9; 6 p.m. — Friday’s Sixtel: Unibroue A Tout le Monde at Grey Lodge Pub [Megadeth teamed up with Unibroue to make À Tout Le Monde, a Belgian style Saison Ale. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/11; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Breakfast with Santa at Hop Angel Brauhaus [This is an opportunity for the whole family to have breakfast with the big guy. Chef Christine will have a special brunch menu, including a kinder brunch menu for the kids. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/11; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Flavors Of The Season at Fairmount Park [Join us as the historic houses feature Walter Staib from City Tavern who will be on hand to engage visitors’ culinary curiosities along with samples of holiday delights from local food superstars Shane Confectionery, John & Kira's Chocolates, Yards Brewing Co., and more. $8-$100]

Mon. 12/12; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop [Complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections of beers from Yards. $Free]

Tue. 12/13; 8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping–Goose Island Sours at Lucky's Last Chance [A night of special sour beers from Goose Island. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/14; 3 p.m. — Evil Genius Beer Night at Barcade [Join us as we welcome our friends from the neighborhood. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/14; 4 p.m. — Toolbox Brewing Company Visits at South Philadelphia Tap Room [Their bright and expressive sours had us captivated all year and we can't wait to delve further into their barrel aging program. $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Fri. 12/9; All Day — Anniversary Party at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Details to come. $PAYG]

Shawnee-on-Delaware, Pa.

Sun. 12/11; 10 a.m. — Jolly Beer Mile at Shawnee Craft Brewing Company [Registration fee includes bib, timed course, long sleeve event shirt, and four cans of beer during run. All runners should wear Christmas flair. $40]

Wayne, Pa.

Fri. 12/9; 5 p.m. — Kevin Brooks Brings some Shelton Brothers Treats at Teresa's Next Door [A few Shelton Christmas beers, a few of our year round favorites, and a jolly, long haired, bearded gentleman to tell you all about them. $PAYG]

Westmont, NJ

Mon. 12/12 through Fri. 12/23; All day — 12 Beers of Christmas at The Pour House [A new keg of Christmas beer will be flowing every day. $PAYG]

Wednesday, December 07, 2016

UPDATE: Now Open Fork & Ale opening "very soon" in Douglassville, PA

(Fork & Ale no longer coming soon, now *very* soon in Douglassville, Pa.)
A second soft opening for me in one week? Lots of year-end activity going on around here. (Not sure of what I speak? Check my Flying Fish Crafthouse opening update from earlier this week).

You'll be glad to know the Coming Soon sign is about to be changed to Now Open. The long-anticipated second location for Gary and Melissa Fry — Fork & Ale — has fired up the kitchen, turned on the draft lines, and had a couple of soft openings, one of which I attended last evening.

No specific date has yet been made public for the public grand opening, but you'll want to use your resources — driving by, checking social media, picking up telegrams, etc. — to find out how soon you'll be able to hunker down at the bar on the edge of Douglassville and Birdsboro for a plate of savory food and glass (or three) of exceptional beer from around the area and the world alike.

(A lot of personal sweat equity and touches went into the new Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa.)
That last sentence really hits home for me as my youth was split between Douglassville and Birdsboro and Fork & Ale is barely a mile as the crow flies from my Birdsboro house. Other than two breweries — Hidden River (3.6 miles away, I was informed) and Sly Fox (twice as far), and two bars — Liberty Taproom (near Reading), and Union Jack's (farther out near Boyertown) — I'm hard-pressed to think of many other good beer-and-food destinations in the nearby area. (Hopefully, I'm not setting myself up to be burned on that comment.) That should bode well for the Frys.

Another thing that should bode well for Fork & Ale is the proximity to the Schuylkill River Trail. In my upcoming article in County Lines Magazine, I mentioned the recreational trail with a burgeoning beer presence along it. From Manayunk Brewing in Philly out to Conshohocken Brewing to Iron Hill in Phoenixville to Tuned Up Brewing in Spring City, we can now add Fork & Ale to the list. The trail cuts directly along the property line and its trailhead parking lot provides riders, runners, etc. easy access to a year-round restroom facility, a bike repair stand, and now Fork & Ale's bar, restaurant, and outdoor bar convenient for the sweaty set.

But what of the kitchen and bar, you ask? For starters, the sweat equity put in by Gary, Melissa, and their friends and family is immediately evident when arriving through the front doors. There are coolers of beer just like at the sister restaurant — Craft Ale House — adjacent to the bar. The lighting, the handcarved table, the woodwork, and the birch tree branches (perhaps my favorite of the tasteful touches) all combine for a comfortable atmosphere.

(Tuna with roasted carrots.)
Last night, I had the opportunity to dive into a couple of beers and a bunch of plates of food, courtesy of my wife Patty/BPIL (barstool partner in life as I referred to her in my book) and that guy, Matt Guyer, who always seemed to be pushing a plate of food my way. If there was a disappoint on the menu that Gary says will change frequently (more frequently than just seasonally), I didn't have it. Shrimp & Grits, Mushroom Soup, Oxtail Pappardelle, Deviled Eggs, Steak Frites, Cioppino, Tuna...I tried 'em all. If I had time here today, I'd go into detail. But I don't, so I can't. The recommendation to you, though, is to make a mental note to try any of them when you find yourself there.

At the bar, you'll find 15 draft beers (plus, one on nitro) from nearby, around the country, and from overseas. You can expect to see two wines on draft as well. At the soft opening last night, there were also three "craft cocktails" available — one with bourbon, one with rum, and one gin-based.

(A draft board plenty full of goodness at Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa.)
Veteran barstool hoppers that know Craft Ale House will see similarities in both the bar and kitchen menus; but yet they're almost entirely different. The decor and layout is definitely different, but otherwise locals will choose their favorite spot. One other difference will be the schedule — Craft Ale House will continue to be closed on Sundays while Fork & Ale will be closed on Mondays in order to take advantage of open hours during Sundays and the expected trail user crowds.

It was a labor of love that played out over the last two years to finally open Fork & Ale. From first impressions, it seems that the blood, sweat, and (were there?) tears, should pay off in short order.

(A lot of personal sweat equity and touches went into the new Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa.)

(The birch twigs - one of my favorite touches in the comfortable new Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa.)

(Interior of Fork & Ale in Douglassville, Pa.)

(Pappardelle with oxtail and mushrooms)

(Cioppino)

(Deviled eggs)

Monday, December 05, 2016

Flying Fish crafting a new beer future for Brewerytown

The brewery that continues to carry the standard that it set in New Jersey for great beer more than twenty years ago is now part of an ambitious new plan in Philadelphia that begins today in the city's Brewerytown neighborhood.

I had the opportunity last night to check out the new Flying Fish Crafthouse and its atmosphere, the bar, and the food. Flying Fish's beer list is the cornerstone of the bar menu and the licensed namesake for the Crafthouse. Expect to see at least a dozen Flying Fish core brands in addition to three that are claimed to either be exclusive to the Brewerytown location or only available also at the brewery in Somerdale, NJ.

Five other beer taps are planned to be dedicated to other local breweries. Operations Manager, Sean Kelly, mentioned breweries such as Bar Hygge, Crime & Punishment, Evil Genius as examples of a few small brewery local options he envisions on tap. Perhaps not so coincidentally, my night concluded with a visit to Crime & Punishment (only six blocks away and, by taste, appearing to be doing quite well since my last visit during CBC, but I'll save that for another post) where owner/brewer Mike Wambold discussed his enthusiasm for more great beer in Brewerytown as well as confirmed talks to get his beer on tap at the Crafthouse.

Also, plans call for one rose, two red, and two white wines to be on tap as well as one featured cocktail. No handpumped beer as of now — however, count on special firkin and other events to develop in time — and no plans (nor licensing currently) in the foreseeable future to be brewing on site.

From the food menu samples last night, the Philly Porchetta Sandwich is a standout, appropriately complete with a attention-grabbing long hot pepper and the Smokey Brisket Sandwich impresses with tender beef, coleslaw, and a Flying Fish Abbey Dubbel au jus.

The ownership forces behind the concept (in which, by the way, Flying Fish has no ownership interest) include locals Dana Spain (of PAWS, real estate, and other ventures) and Chef Brian Duffy (of Bar Rescue fame), who has immediately stamped his trademark - "Duffified" - on everything from the menu to apparel.

The ownership group has ties to The Fairmount @ Brewerytown residential property that sits overhead. The building was converted from the former Acme distribution warehouse, which itself has vestiges in the form of re-used wall signs around the interior. The Crafthouse occupies a good portion of the first floor, has a communal seating beer garden, rollup garage-style windows and a streetside patio, and has room for live music.

The ambitious plan I referred to earlier calls for an additional four Flying Fish Crafthouse locations in the city proper in the next five years. While a second location has not been announced, the general Chinatown area is dicussed as a likely contender. Flying Fish will have exclusivity on all of them. Nice to see the sustained growth, and now increased visibility, for the nearly perennial award-wining Flying Fish brand over the last nine years.

When I used to live in Fairmount, there wasn't much worthwhile to speak of for going north of Girard Avenue. That's been changing in recent years, nowhere more rapidly than in the Brewerytown neighborhood.

(Apologies for the quick and scattered dump of notes here and the mediocre pictures which seem to be thanks to a failing phone/camera. Nonetheless, hope you enjoy.)

(Duffy, owner Brian Duffy that is, approves.)

(The standards, plus some exclusives, due to always be available at Flying Fish Crafthouse.)

(Hola Cubano joins Philly Porchetta, a ribeye Cheesesteak, and an excellent Smokey Brisket on the sandwich menu.)

(Crunchy beer chips.)

(Sean Kelly, Operations Manager at Flying Fish Crafthouse, takes to the mic to for a song or two.)

(Plenty of signs at Flying Fish's Crafthouse remain from the building's former occupant, an Acme distribution warehouse.)

(Crime & Punishment, at 27th & Girard, just a few blocks away from the new Flying Fish Crafthouse.)

(All's well at Crime & Punishment at 27th & Girard, not far from the new Flying Fish Crafthouse.)

(Always something new at Crime & Punishment.)

Thursday, December 01, 2016

Weekly Beer Event Calendar Update: December 1 - December 7

Just like that, December comes a-calling. Check your beer events list and check it twice.

And while you're at it, make sure you check out my book. It's that special gift-giving time of year again, so I'm inclined to remind you again of my book, Beer Lover's Mid-Atlantic. To buy, send a note to me for personal signing and delivery, ping Amazon.com, or drop by your local bookstore such as Barnes & Noble.

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.

Allentown, Pa.

Sat. 12/3; 12 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Craft Beer Festival at Allentown Brew Works [More than 50 craft beers to sample from dozens of the best local and national craft breweries. $10-$35]

Bethlehem, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Charity Cask Night at Bethlehem Brew Works [Entire proceeds of the charity cask are donated to a local non-profit organization. $PAYG]

Boyertown, Pa.

Sat. 12/3; 11 a.m. — Back In Black Stout Fest at Union Jack's On The Manatawny [Our annual Stout Fest. $PAYG]

Cape May, NJ

Thu. 12/1; 5 p.m.-6 p.m. — Fireside Chat: Barrel-aged Series at Cape May Brewing Company [You’ll hear all about our process and ingredients, as well as some glimpses into the future of the series. No promises, but tastings are rumored. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/2; 5:30 p.m. — Cape May Beer Dinner at Cape May Ferry Terminal [A five-course menu paired with Cape May beers. Brewery representatives will be on-hand to discuss the various beer styles offered. $59]

Chalfont, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 5 p.m. — Tröegs Mad Elf Madness at Blue Dog Tavern [Mad Elf verticals, vintages, blends, and straight-up fresh. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/7; 4 p.m. — Cave Bear Barleywine Release at Tower Hill Brewery [22 degrees Plato, 60 BUs, 8% ABV. Great full gold color and a creamy head. $PAYG]

Conshohocken, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 7 p.m. — First Thursday with Tröegs at Below Deck Bottle Shop [We'll be featuring this year's Mad Elf, the very limited Naked Elf, Nitro Chocolate Stout, and Mad Elf blends. Yes, we'll be blending Mad Elf with Nitro Chocolate Stout to create Chocolate Elf. We'll also be blending Mad Elf with Dreamweaver to create Mad Dreams. $PAYG]

Downingtown, Pa.

Sun. 12/4; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at Victory Brewing Company [We’ll be serving a buffet style brunch. Free photo for each child and each additional photo is $5. $12-$28]

Tue. 12/6; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Holiday Beer Dinner at Victory Brewing Company [A five-course meal paired with Victory Red, Winter Cheers, Hip Czech Lager, St. Victorious, and Java Cask. $75]

Emmaus, Pa.

Wed. 12/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Avery Beer Dinner at Trapp Door [Five awesome beers, five amazing courses. $75]

Exton, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Friday Night Sampling at Exton Beverage Company [Tasting samples of beers from Evolution. $Free]

Sat. 12/3; 2 p.m.-4 p.m. — Saturday Sampling at Exton Beverage Company [Tasting samples of beers from Dogfish Head. $Free]

Horsham, Pa.

Wed. 12/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — 12 Beers of Christmas at Iron Abbey [12 beers with 6 courses of food. $75]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Sat. 12/3; 12 p.m.-10 p.m. — Festivus at Naked Brewing Company [Annual celebration with ten beers on tap from Naked, food by Stockyard, and music by Gary Senavitis and Haywood Trout $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — Collusion Tap Works Draft Invasion at Hunger N Thirst [Will feature 6 different beers, one being a scotch ale collaboration that we brewed on their pilot system. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/6; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. — 2SP Brewery Release Party at Hunger N Thirst [We were fortunate enough to get a few very limited production kegs that sound absolutely delicious. $PAYG]

Maple Shade, NJ

Sat. 12/3; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Winter Wonderland Celebration Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the release of Winter Warmer & Om Nom Nom, along with 6 other unique beers. $PAYG]

Media, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Allagash Night at Pinocchio's [A night of beers from Allagash. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/4; 12 p.m.-3 p.m. — Milk & Cookies with Santa Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [ $PAYG]

Newark, Del.

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m.-8 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Party Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Santa’s Little Helper & Reindeer’s Revenge are coming to the taps to fill you with cheer. Anyone bringing in a donation of non perishable foods will receive a thank you gift. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — The Beer Dinner Before Christmas at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [A five-course meal paired with Abbey Dubbel, Fe20, Santa’s Little Helper, Sugar Shack Brown Ale, and Jack Skellington. $65]

North Wales, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m. — Deck the Halls Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Celebrating the Holiday Season with the Release of Scrooge IPA. We’ll also have Reindeer’s Revenge, Santa’s Little Helper, and Winter Warmer on tap. $PAYG]

Oaks, Pa.

Sat. 12/3; 12:30 p.m.-4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. — Valley Forge Beer & Cider Festival at Greater Philadelphia Expo Center [Shoulder to shoulder with the most popular local breweries and cideries will be amazing producers from across the country and around the world. $10-$55]

Paoli, Pa.

Fri. 12/2 through Sun. 12/4; All Weekend — 13th Anniversary Weekend Party at TJ's [When all that fun stuff at the bottom of TJ's webpage gets tapped. $PAYG]

Perkasie, Pa.

Sun. 12/4; 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. — BrewAsana Beer & Yoga at Free Will Brewing Company [This 45 minute yoga session will be lead by Beth Howard of Younger Thru Yoga+, LLC., and will be followed by a private beer tasting, hosted by Free Will Brewing Co. $TBA]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 12/1; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Half Acre Happy Hour at Brü Craft & Wurst [Vexer, Bucket Brains Pony, Tuna, Gone Away, Daisy Cutter, Double Daisy, and Navaja. $PAYG]

Thu. 12/1; 7 p.m. — Fireplace Lighting Party at Devil's Den [We will be tapping a variety of Smoked and Wood-aged beers along with our winter cocktail menu. $PAYG]

Thu. 12/1; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — SingleCut Beersmiths Night at Varga Bar [SingleCut's Harry Doesn't Mind IPA, Billy Half Stack IPA, Dean Pacific NW Mahogany Amber Ale, and Heavy Boots of Lead Imperial Stout. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/2; 6 p.m. — Friday’s Sixtel: New Belgium Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough at Grey Lodge Pub [This collaboration with Ben & Jerry’s brings together two different types of pint-makers for one common goal: to fill your glass with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ale. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/4; 2 p.m.-6 p.m. — Repeal Day Ball at Victory Beer Hall [We're bringing you back to the Roaring 20s and a we encourage our guests to dress up within the theme. $11+$PAYG]

Sun. 12/4; 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. seatings — Brunch with Santa at Brauhaus Schmitz [Hot and cold buffet stations and The Big Man will be in the Haus for pictures and biers from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $15-$25]

Sun. 12/4; 5 p.m. — Christmas Goose Dinner at Brauhaus Schmitz [Includes a three-course dinner and a glass of Gluhwein. $50]

Sun. 12/4; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at City Tap House-University City [Kids under 10 eat complimentary and pictures of Santa are, of course, included. A $10 donation to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House is suggested. $PAYG]

Sun. 12/4; 7 p.m. — 13th Anniversary Party at Good Dog Bar [Passed appetizers, raffle prizes, souvenir photobooth, dog photo contest winners announced. $PAYG]

Mon. 12/5; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 Bottle Shop [Complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections of cider's from Big Hill. $Free]

Tue. 12/6; 5 p.m. — Sinterklaas Day at Eulogy [A rare bottle of Thomas H. Handy Rye and bottles of Bourbon County Brand Stout will be in limited supply to celebrate the Feast of Saint Nicholas' Day. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/6; 8 p.m. — Tuesday Tapping–Tröegs at Lucky's Last Chance [A night of special beers from Tröegs. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/6; 7 p.m. — Holiday Beer Dinner at Monk's Café [A six-course meal paired with seasonal beers from around the world. $85]

Wed. 12/7; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. — Hank Shaw "Buck Buck Moose" Cook Book Dinner at Brauhaus Schmitz [Join us once again for an amazing night and five-course rustic dinner featuring dishes inspired by Hank Shaw’s newest cook book “Buck Buck Moose”. Optional beer pairing. $90-$110]

Wed. 12/7; 7 p.m. — Christmas PJ Party with Evil Genius Brewing at Devil's Den [To celebrate the new brewery they are throwing a Christmas pajama party at the Devil's Den. $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m. — Cookies with Santa Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Enjoy the Phoenixville Christmas Parade with the release of Santa's Little Helper. For the kids: Patio seating during the parade, complimentary housemade cookies and a visit from Santa Claus. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/2; All Day — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Belgian-style Tripel pours until the keg kicks. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/3; 5 p.m. — Firebird Tap Takeover at Bistro on Bridge [During the Firebird Festival, we are going to host a Tap Takeover that is sure to warm you up before and after the Burning of the Bird. $PAYG]

Sat. 12/3; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. — Firebird Festival Multi-Tap at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for an 8 beer multi-tap featuring big, bold, cozy winter beers in celebration of the Firebird Festival. $PAYG]

Tue. 12/6; 6:30 p.m. — Hill for the Holidays Beer Dinner at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [A five-course meal paired with Sugar Shack Brown Ale, Winter Warmer, Reindeer’s Revenge, Abbey Dubbel, The Hoppening, and Nitro Bourbon Baltic Porter. $65]

Pottstown, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; All Day — Incubus Friday at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Belgian-style Tripel pours until the keg kicks. $PAYG]

Rehoboth Beach, Del.

Sun. 12/4; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Wild Game Beer Dinner at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery [A four-course meal served with Pennsylvania Tuxedo, 2014 Red & White, 2013 World Wide Stout, and 2013 Burton Baton. $75]

Wed. 12/7; 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. — Festivus Part 2 Beer Dinner at Pickled Pig Pub [A Seinfeld inspired collaboration with our very own Chef Ian Mangin and Brooklyn Brewery Chef Andrew Gerson. $TBA]

Sellersville, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m. — Beer Tasting: Holiday Brews at Washington House [Stop by to share flights of seasonal, hearty brews. $PAYG]

Voorhees, NJ

Thu. 12/1; 4 p.m.-7 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Party Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Release Harry Henderson. $PAYG]

Wayne, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m. — Tröegs Mad Elf Event at Teresa's Next Door [Mad Elf graces our tap lines and reindeer stew is on your plate. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Fri. 12/2; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Samples at Goshen Beverage [Free tasting samples of beers from Smuttynose. $Free]

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m.-7 p.m. — Steal The Cheer Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join in the cheer for the release of Scrooge IPA and enjoy the Old Fashioned Christmas Parade. $PAYG]

Fri. 12/2; 5 p.m. — Milk & Cookies with Firestone Walker Brewing at The Side Bar [During the West Chester Christmas Parade we will be hosting a Milk and Cookie event with Firestone Walker and a local West Chester bakery. $PAYG]

Wed. 12/7; 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. — Holiday Beer Dinner at Kildare's Irish Pub [A four-course dinner to celebrate the holiday season paired with New Belgium Accumulation White IPA, Port Brewing Santa's Little Helper, Deschutes Jubelale, and Great Lakes Christmas Ale. $37.92]

Westmont, NJ

Sat. 12/3; 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. — Brunch with Santa at Keg & Kitchen [We will be featuring a special pre-fixe menu with seasonal drinks for all, festive cocktails, and Santa arrives at 11:30-ready for wish lists and pictures. $9-$18]

Wilmington, Del.

Sun. 12/4; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Jay Z Birthday Brunch with Brooklyn Brewery at Two Stones Pub [We're celebrating Mr. Jay Z's birthday with some of Brooklyn's Finest from The Brooklyn Brewery paired with amazing Hov-inspired brunch features and, of course, music from the man himself. $PAYG]