The Brew Lounge

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Philly Beer Week 2018. More details.

Philly Beer Week 2018 is firing up for an 11th consecutive year. What's new? What's returning? What's changed? What's a must-do? When's it happening? All reasonable questions and a good bit of what is addressed in the organization's press release (portions deleted, but nothing edited, for brevity) pasted below. Some new faces, some old faces, and some missing faces are on the list thus far. The calendar of events continues to evolve as per usual, so try to keep up. And, I'll do my usual bit to keep you informed of what I sleuth out along the way. Then, we'll meet up for some beers and debrief. Cheers to the never boring Philly beer scene.

PHILLY BEER WEEK HITS JUNE 1-10, 2018.

Often Imitated, NEVER Duplicated: The nation’s first, biggest and best Beer Week – with nearly 100 copycats worldwide – will celebrate their 11th anniversary in 2018, kicking off with Opening Tap on June 1.

Philadelphia PA — (May 2018) Philly Beer Week (PBW) will celebrate their 11th year on Friday, June 1 with Opening Tap, their signature kick-off party featuring more than 60 breweries and cideries, at The Fillmore Philadelphia. Opening Tap will be followed by 10 days of lively beer-soaked events in America’s Best Beer-Drinking City^TM. Hosted by 501(c)(6) non-profit Philly Loves Beer (PLB), PBW2018 is the culmination of 11 years and nearly 11,000 events, and remains the 10 most important days on Philadelphia’s beer calendar.

PBW stands alone as the largest beer celebration of its kind in the United States. The 10-day festival (seven days weren’t enough for America’s Best Beer-Drinking City^TM, a name trademarked in 2012) features hundreds of dinners, tours, pub crawls, tastings and meet-the-brewer nights, and highlights the region’s top-notch breweries, neighborhood taverns, trendsetting restaurants and masterful home brewers. PBW is the “Founding Father” of Beer Weeks, and continues to evolve and grow amid a crowded field of friendly imitators, with 77 Beer Weeks held annually in the United States, and almost 100 worldwide.

“Looking back at 10 years, I have to admit Philly Beer Week has exploded beyond my wildest expectations,” says Tom Peters, PBW Co-Founder and Proprietor of Monk’s Cafe. “The first year I remember saying I’d be really happy if we had 20 participants and 30 events. Now, there are Beer Weeks all over the world and we are proud Philadelphia once again was leading the charge. It’s been a remarkable ride and stunning achievement!”

Opening Tap
Opening Tap is PBW’s signature event, bringing the entire craft beer community together for a ritualistic “first tapping” of the festival – followed by a raucous party with endless samples. A highly-anticipated night, Opening Tap features rare and limited pours from 50+ breweries and cideries and live entertainment.

In addition, guests will have the opportunity to sample the country’s best ciders and chat with cider makers. Hard ciders have been gaining popularity in recent years, thanks to new fermenting methods, including the use of big, bold hops and dry hopping.

Opening Tap will take place on Friday night, June 1, from 7:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

General Admission: $46 includes a souvenir glass and complimentary beers from 50+ local and national breweries in 4-oz. tastings, including the debut of Saison de Pale, a collaboration saison brewed with Pilsner, blended with 15% Petrus Aged Pale, and balanced with Saaz Hops created by Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton DE, and Brouwerij De Brabandere in Belgium.

VIP Admission: $66 includes a specialty souvenir glass, and an additional hour of access, beginning at 6:30 p.m featuring rare pours from brewery members. There will be live DJ sets, and a live performance from Philadelphia favorite Chill Moody!

Leading Up to Opening Tap: The Hammer of Glory and HOG Relay
The official mascot of PBW, the Hammer of Glory (HOG) is a custom, hand-forged keg hammer that travels throughout the region and across the United States as an ambassador for Philadelphia beer throughout the year. Starting in the wee hours of the morning on June 1, the HOG will be passed Olympic torch-style from venue to venue along the HOG Relay, a day-long, beer-fueled carnival that visits 40 bars, breweries and restaurants across the city.

The HOG Relay will conclude with the HOG’s arrival at Opening Tap for the ceremonial first tap of PBW2018: the newly nickel-plated keg mallet will strike a firkin of Brotherly Suds, a collaboration beer from local breweries Troegs, Victory, Yards, Sly Fox, Stoudts, Iron Hill and Flying Fish. This year’s collaboration will feature a Hoppy Saison.

PBW2018: MUST DO
Art on Beer
Are these labels making you thirsty? Be honest, have you bought a beer just because the label caught your eye? Explore with us on Wednesday, June 6 at U-Bahn why the artists and the breweries make the decisions they do - be it an entire redesign, flavor series, or one-off, for the second installment of our Art on Beer moderated panel discussion. Not only does this ticket get you in on a super cool art & beer panel discussion, it includes $5 beers from all breweries represented on the panel, as well as, a specifically designed menu for the event!

Don’t F*#k Up The Beer - A Industry Panel Discussion about Quality Control
Philly Loves Beer is proud to present the Industry Education Panel on Quality Control taking place at Urban Village on Thursday, June 7th from 2-4PM. Explore the best quality control practices, common lab errors, overlooked QC practices and the best route to achieve happy, healthy fermentation. A panel of experts will share their unique perspectives to create an interactive experience for anyone who wants to brew better beer. After the panel discussion, mix and mingle with other top brewing industry folks before hitting your evening events!

Philly Loves Beer Garden: Sip on your favorite local brews every night (except Wednesday; including weekends) of PBW2018! Uptown Beer Garden (1735 Market Street) will host the official Philly Loves Beer Garden, with special attention devoted to breweries located within 100 miles of downtown Philadelphia.

PBW2018: Greatest Hits
In addition, PBW will also celebrate the return of long-established and much-anticipated favorites:

It’s A Firkin’ Riot (Johnny Brenda’s)

Fishtown FestivALE (various bars in Northern Liberties)

11th Annual Extreme HomeBrew Challenge (Jose Pistola’s)

Secret Lair Burlesque (Evil Genius)

The Wild Brunch (Cinder)

Wayne Music Festival (Teresa’s Next Door)

Canwood Derby (Good Dog Bar)

Pils & Pierogies (Grey Lodge Pub)

Tailgate Olympics (Devil’s Den)

Beer and Boats on the Schuylkill River (Bartram’s Garden)

About Philly Loves Beer (PLB)
Formerly Philly Beer Week, PLB was established in 2017 and is a non-profit 501 (c)(6) organization overseen by a community of like-minded beer professionals whose aim is to “grow the pie” and promote the entire Philadelphia region’s top-notch beer-drinking culture. Through a membership network, PLB works to promote and educate consumers about beer 365 days a year, celebrating Philly’s proud brewing culture by highlighting local brewers and progressive national trends.

© Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge, 2018. All content is owned and uniquely created by Bryan J. Kolesar. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Kolesar is strictly prohibited. Excerpts, images, and links may be used with advance permission granted and only provided that full and clear credit is given to Bryan J. Kolesar and The Brew Lounge with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Contact Kolesar at TheBrewLounge@gmail.com

Monday, May 21, 2018

Philly Beer Week 2018. Hammer of Glory update

(The legendary Fergie during the Hammer of Glory stop in 2016 outside his Belgian Cafe.)
Good timing on the part of Scoats. Within hours of my inaugural PBW '18 post last week, Mike "Scoats" Scotese (of Grey Lodge, Hop Angel, SawTown, Bonk's, and Philly Beer Week ambassadorship fame) reached out to let me know that my comment about the Hammer of Glory tour on June 1 for Philly Beer Week could be updated with a schedule that had just been completed. At least the participating establishments. The times were close enough to publish, but he ask that they be taken with an understanding that they may be tweaked in these two weeks leading up the Friday, June 1 kickoff of PBW '18.

Even though still are a lot of gaps in terms of what each establishment will be doing to showcase their creativity and their dedication to the local bar and brewing scene, if 2018 is anything like past years, then you can bet it will be worth taking some part, or all, of your day to check out the roaming festivities on the way to Opening Tap at The Fillmore.

Here's a link to the Google Doc that is currently hosting the only version of this schedule that I've seen thus far and I've static-pasted it below as it stands as of today. 4 city breweries and 20 bars.

10:00 AM Hop Angel Brauhaus (7980 Oxford Avenue)
10:40 AM SawTown Tavern (4717 Princeton Avenue)
11:08 AM Grey Lodge Pub (6235 Frankford Avenue)
11:39 AM Bonks Bar (3467 Richmond Street)
12:10 PM Philadelphia Brewing (2439 Amber Street)
12:33 PM Evil Genius Lab (1727 North Front Street)
12:53 PM Saint Benjamin Brewing (1710 North 5th Street)
1:29 PM Belgian Cafe (601 North 21st Street)
2:04 PM Grace Tavern (2229 Grays Ferry Avenue)
2:35 PM 12 Steps Down (767 South 9th Street)
2:58 PM Garage Passyunk (1231 East Passyunk Avenue)
3:33 PM Jose Pistola's (263 South 15th Street)
4:00 PM Opa & Drury Beer Garden (1311 Sansom Street)
4:14 PM Time (1315 Sansom Street)
4:28 PM Fergie's (1214 Sansom Street)
4:49 PM Varga (941 Spruce Street)
5:11 PM Craftsman Row Saloon (112 South 8th Street)
5:38 PM Yards (500 Spring Garden Street)
6:04 PM Standard Tap (901 North 2nd Street)
6:23 PM El Camino Real (1030 North 2nd Street)
6:48 PM Frankford Hall (1210 Frankford Avenue)
7:02 PM Garage Fishtown (100 East Girard Avenue)
7:16 PM Johnny Brenda's (1201 Frankford Avenue)
7:34 PM The Fillmore for Opening Tap (29 East Allen Street)

Saturday, May 19, 2018

PA Cider Fest is back for a third year

I make extremely rare exceptions for non-beer content here at The Brew Lounge. Not that I don't routinely fill my other glass with wine, spirits, and the like. Hard cider, as well. But, for the written content here, it's almost exclusively beer.

I make an exception, however, for the annual PA Cider Fest. It's a well-run event, I know the good people behind it, I attended last year, and it so fittingly perfect in how it showcases the significant agricultural output of south-central PA. (I should also disclose that my admission has been comp'ed.) I figure that you, too, may like a brief interruption here in the beer content and that's fine. I hope to attend this year again. If the perfect weather and scenic backdrop can be duplicated and paired again with many interesting ciders like last year, I and everyone else in attendance should have another excellent experience. And now to the press release.

Hard Cider Back on Tap for the Third Annual PA Cider Fest in Gettysburg

More than 25 cider makers, food vendors and entertainment will converge on the Pennsylvania countryside

GETTYSBURG, Pa. — May 2, 2018: Hard cider newbies and aficionados, alike, will flock to the third annual PA Cider Fest in Gettysburg on Saturday, June 23. Pennsylvania’s premier cider-tasting event is set to feature more than 65 cider varieties from 25+ hard cider makers, showcasing ciders and their makers from all across the Commonwealth. Plus, PA Cider Fest also features Pennsylvania cheese makers and artisans, and there will be plentiful food offerings and live entertainment.

“Cider Town” — historic Gettysburg and the surrounding countryside — has gained national popularity, thanks to its solid lineup of local cideries, in addition to its role in hosting the PA Cider Fest. Ben Wenk of Ploughman Farm Cider and Pennsylvania Cider Guild board member says, “To me, Adams County is one of the best apple growing areas in the United States if not the world. It's a premier apple growing region and the PA Cider Fest shines a beautiful light on the entire area.”

Wenk and more than 1500 anticipated attendees look forward to the annual PA Cider Fest in Gettysburg. Wenk says, “Not only is there natural beauty, with the rolling hillsides and apple trees, but folks get to try ciders from small craft producers in our state. It's one of the days on my calendar that I look forward to most every year.”

Mary Bigham of Cider Culture, an online cider publication from Pennsylvania-based Dish LLC, says, “Each year the festival brings hundreds of cider enthusiasts to Adams County … My favorite part? To see new people try hard cider — and love it. It’s a chance to sample first, and then if interested, to bring your favorites to take home.”

Festival goers may purchase cider directly from the participating cider makers, in addition to taking part in cider tasting at the event. Among the other activities scheduled to take place at the event are special seminars and workshops from cider and cheese experts. The list of this year’s workshop/seminar topics includes apple pressing, cider apples, cider and cheese pairings, and cider tasting tips.

PA Cider Fest is held at the home of Jack’s Hard Cider at Hauser Estate Winery, located at 410 Cashtown Rd. in Biglerville, Pa. “I love bringing people to our home to learn about hard cider and have a great day out,” said Jonathan Patrono, President of Jack’s Hard Cider. “We are proud to host this event and bring some of the best ciders on the market for everyone to sample."

Tickets to PA Cider Fest are $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. Interested participants may use the “plan your visit” tool. Accommodation packages are available, and festival transportation will be provided from select locations.

Once again this year, PA Cider Fest will raise money for the Pennsylvania Cider Guild, which works to bring together cider makers, cideries, cider enthusiasts and associated businesses to represent and promote the cider industry in Pennsylvania with a united voice. The guild’s mission is to protect, promote, represent and educate its members and consumers.

PA Cider Fest is sponsored by PA Preferred, a program by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture that encourages Pennsylvanians to support fellow state farmers by purchasing products made throughout the state.

"As an event planner, this is my favorite event to plan of the year,” said Richard Ashenfelder, PA Cider Fest event planner. “Where else can you find such an array of cider varieties, live music, orchard views and Pennsylvania artisan cheese all in one place? We have more cider makers than ever — more than 25 this year — spanning the entire state from east to west. I'm excited about the new food trucks that will be joining us this year! And we've got some really interesting artisan vendors as well — from artisan mustard, to elk and venison jerky, to cider-themed tea towels."

To purchase tickets, visit paciderfest.com

Friday, May 18, 2018

Landmark Americana making a new mark in New Jersey

Good crew behind Landmark Americana and its lively bar/restaurant atmosphere. Been to the West Chester and the University City locations. Done pretty well mixing in the craft beer as well, though if my recollection holds up, the city location excels beyond the West Chester spot. The same management team was behind the opening of Urban Village Brewing Company last year in the Northern Liberties neighborhood of Philadelphia. They already are in NJ (southern) and have now announced that later this year, they'll be pushing up into northern NJ, specifically just outside Trenton. Announcement follows:

On May 8th Landmark Americana Tap & Grill hosted a sneak peek celebration to unveil plans for its newest location at Campus Town at The College of New Jersey. Founder Dave Goldman and local elected officials, as well as members of TCNJ administration, were on hand. The fifth Landmark Americana will feature a combination of entertainment with a sports bar atmosphere, boasting an impressive lineup of 40 taps featuring local craft brews, HDTV screens, and delicious pub fare. Landmark Americana will be bringing approximately 70 full and part-time jobs to the location. The 9,200 square feet location will open in Campus Town, which was developed by the PRC Group, and plans to open early Fall 2018.

Thursday, May 17, 2018

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

If you can't find a place to drink a good beer on Saturday, you must be doing something wrong. Here's everything you need to know.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Ardmore, Pa.

Thu. 5/17; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Sly Fox Tasting at The Beer Shoppe [Stop by to enjoy some delicious Sly Fox beer samples and take advantage of discounted to go beer. $Free]

Collingswood, NJ

Sat. 5/19; 6 p.m.-10 p.m. — Handcrafted at Perkins Center for the Arts [During this award-winning tasting event, our guests will enjoy tastings from microbreweries and regional wineries. This evening features gourmet food by Not Your Ma’Ma’s Tacos and Mary’s Mobile Diner. $60-$80]

Douglassville, Pa.

Wed. 5/23; 5:45 p.m.-8:45 p.m. — 5K Race to Benefit the ARL at Fork & Ale [Benefits the Animal Rescue League of Berks County. Includes a free beer for each runner who is 21 years old and older. $15]

Downingtown, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; 11 a.m. — Anniversary Party at Station Taproom & Bottle Room [Join us for a day filled with live music, beer, and food as we celebrate our 8th anniversary and Bottle Room's 2nd. $PAYG]

Georgetown, Del.

Sat. 5/19; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Truffle and Brew Pairing Murder Mystery at 16 Mile Brewing Company [Join us for a one-night-only Vegas-themed murder mystery event with an international celebrity chef serving four delicious beers paired with four truffle dishes. $40]

Harrisburg, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Anniversary Fest at Appalachian Brewing Company [Brew Tour with Head Brewer Adam Cole, kids inflatable and face painting, free BBQ in parking lot, Keg Olympics (Keg Throw and Keg Spin), and discounted beers. $PAYG]

Jennersville, Pa.

Thu. 5/17 through Sat. 5/19; 5 p.m. — Goin' Fishin' — Dogfish Head & Seafood Weekend at Two Stones Pub [We're tapping 10 brews from one of our fave breweries...Dogfish Head and the chefs are getting in on the act with a whole long weekend of seafood features to pair with these delicious brews. $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; All day — 5th Anniversary Celebration at Hunger N Thirst [Join us as we tap a bunch of rare beers as a huge thank you to all of our loyal customers. There will be food specials all day in the restaurant and the specialty retail store and a few other surprises. $PAYG]

Media, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. — Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers’ Festival at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Enjoy food, games, music, and craft beer from over 20 local breweries. The festival continues to grow into the premier showcase of handcrafted products from the region's craft breweries. Proceeds will benefit the Media Youth Center. $5-$45]

Milton, Del.

Sat. 5/19; All day — America the Brettiful Limited Bottle Release at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery [We’re releasing 700 bottles of a new, limited-edition sour beer – America the Brettiful. $PAYG]

Mon. 5/14 through Sat. 5/19; All day — American Craft Beer Week Celebration at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery [Each day we’ll have a different theme, with different featured beers to match. $PAYG]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Thu. 5/17; 7 p.m. — Fishtown Beer Runners & Avery Brewing at City Tap House-University City [FBR is running to City Tap House University City and Avery and City Tap House will provide a complimentary Go Play IPA from Avery per runner. The beer is designed to have the same electrolyte kick of popular sports drinks. $PAYG]

Sat. 5/19; 2 p.m.-7 p.m. — All-Star Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Festival at Citizens Bank Park [New this year, almost double the space to sample, relax, and enjoy yourself including a 50,000 Sq Ft Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Garden. $19.95-$16.95]

Sat. 5/19; 12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Wheat Beer Fest at South Philadelphia Tap Room [Details to come, but if you've been to this event before, you know what's up. $PAYG]

Mon. 5/21; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Fegley's Brew Works. $Free]

Wed. 5/23; 5 p.m. — Beer School at Local 44 [Free samples of each beer we will discuss are offered as our treat to you during the class. You can "pay what you wish", but you have to pay something. 100% of your Beer School donation goes directly to No Kid Hungry, an organization that aims to end childhood hunger in our community and across the country. $Free]

Pottstown, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Taps, Tunes, & Trucks at Sly Fox Brewing Company [Kick off your day with the Fox Trot 5k, then grab a beer and some food truck grub and enjoy music from a few great bands. $PAYG]

Reading, Pa.

Thu. 5/17; 6 p.m.-9 p.m. — Fish Taco Pairing With Evil Twin at Liberty Taproom [This May we will be pairing delicious fish tacos with some hazy, dank, and dark brews from Evil Twin. This pairing will feature three tacos and three beers. $PAYG]

Rehoboth Beach, Del.

Fri. 5/18; 4 p.m. — Firefly Ale Release at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats [To celebrate the release of this year’s Firefly Ale, we’ll be jamming out to a Firefly playlist and giving away tickets to the festival. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Sat. 5/19; 2 p.m. — Brews for Bassets at Levante Brewing Company [Celebrate the spring season by coming out and having some craft beers to benefit Tri-State Basset Hound Rescue. $PAYG]

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Wrap-up: Craft Brewers Conference 2018

(Click above for a full gallery of mostly, but not totally, beer-related pictures in Nashville at both the Craft Brewers Conference and World Beer Cup)
Am I late getting to you on the topic of the Craft Brewers Conference and the biennial World Beer Cup that accompanies it? Depends. If you follow me on the socials, then you'd likely seen me two weeks ago chattering about bars and breweries around Nashville - the host town in 2018 - and newsy bits from the conference itself, as well as "live-Tweeting" the area breweries of interest as they won awards during the ceremony on Thursday evening.

Last week, I shared the local highlights from the World Beer Cup awards. And above you'll find a picture link to a photo gallery of around 200 pictures, mostly beer-related, capturing the week in Nashville. Sounds like a lot, but at least I whittled it down from nearly 800. That's the kind of work I put in for you 😊

The Brewers Association briefly wrapped up its take on the week. Here are some of my own takeaways from what I heard, saw, and tasted during five days in Nashville.

- Diversity. This message came through loud and clear whether it was in a keynote address, in a breakout session, or in the off-site gathering of beer writers for a three-panel symposium presented to the North American Guild of Beer Writers. Cliff Notes version? Even if we don't have the solution for the still mostly white straight male dominated industry, if we're not attempting to take steps in the proper direction, then we're still part of the problem. For myself, wheels are already turning how I can be a part of the improvement.

- NashVegas. What the heck is that? Well, it didn't take long for it to be explained to me that Nashville is a much bigger party city that I'd realized. And, as a result, bachelorette parties what seems like every night. And, "pedal taverns". Shut down Broadway to show the Predators playoff hockey game, mix in beautiful weather, 15-20 square blocks of music and "regular" debauchery (though, I quickly learned, too, that Printer's Alley is not what it used to be), and it goes to another level. Might considering tossing Orleans in the name as well to capture the party essence. Oh, and rooftop parties atop every other bar.

- Stronger Together, and Independent Craft Beer logo. This mantra and this logo were repeatedly announced loudly as antidotes to both macro tampering as well as slowing growth in the craft segment. While I've long held that the craft segment has grown as much as it has and as quickly as it has over the past 10-20 years because of the support that brewers provide each other, as well as the role of suppliers, wholesalers, media (traditional as well as social)...anyone associated with the process of getting beer from tank to glass... I've been a somewhat slowly enthusiastic adopter of the Independent Craft Beer logo that the Brewers Association created and distributed in 2017. They announced that it's been used by over 3,300 breweries (on websites, marketing, and/or packaging) and had signed up another few hundred during the conference. I *do* believe in the message, yet a label does not ultimately convey quality; not really sure there is anything that actually can do that in a decisive and conclusive manner. But, for my part, I will continue to highlight only (or, at least, mostly) the positive with the idea that there are enough forums for scuttlebutt and that the weak can fall to the wayside with their help or on their own. Also, thinking of someway to emphasize the role of Independent Beer Media as well.

- Shout-out to the local Nashville beer scene. I discovered plenty of Nashville's beer scene, but gotta say it was mostly due to my own sleuthing skills. For past CBCs, I've been contacted as part of media outreach to familiarize people such as myself with the local brewing scene by way of tours, invitations, samplings, and the like. This year, not so much. (Could be my ranking has been downgraded?!) Though, hats off to TailGate Brewery for the personalized welcome bag of beer and related accessories. What did that inspire me to do? After unpacking at the condo, TailGate was my first stop for my first beer in Nashville, coinciding with the Predators playoff Watch Party. In addition to enjoying the four canned beers - Naked Statue Blonde, Peanut Butter Milk Stout, Southeast IPA, and Welcome to Nashville Hazy IPA - later back home, while on-site at the Music Row pub location, not only did I find the Barn Out Back Altbier remarkable and the Jasmine Saison, Sake Kolsch, and Farmhouse Rye very good, I had an accidental crossing of paths with the owners/brewers from Something Wicked in Hanover, Pa. First time meeting them even though they're in my Ale Street News coverage area. Some honky-tonkin' ensued from there through late into the night. So, I won on several fronts. But otherwise I was on my own. Brewery-wise, I found my way to Bearded Iris (great, if you're into IPAs, DIPAs, DDH-IPAs, NEIPAs, seriously that's pretty much it), Tennessee Brew Works (a few great classic styles including an Extra Easy ESB "English pub style" and an American Brown called King Chestnut), Jackalope (check out their Thunder Ann Pale and Bearwalker Brown), and Yazoo (great Pilsner that paired nicely with the Beer Writers Guild meeting and in lieu of spending more time there, brought some special bottles home with me). And on the bar front, Craft Brewed, City Tap, Acme Feed & Seed, Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint, and Kuchnia & Keller stood head and shoulders above and demonstrated that it's a year-round thing for them and not just a CBC week condition. (The Germantown neighborhood, on the whole, is an excellent destination for eating, drinking, and walking.) You want these on your short list when exploring the Nashville beer scene. Oh yeah, and of course a few honky tonk bars were on the docket each night!

That's about it for the big headlines. Much more and I'd be getting into insider baseball territory.

The 2019 Craft Brewers Conference was announced to take place in Denver. Will I be there? Will I see you there?

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Triple Bottom is ready to get down to business

I can't recall exactly when I first heard of Triple Bottom Brewing Company. Feel like it was around two years ago, give or take. Got on their media distribution list. Then, didn't hear much for quite a while. That changed earlier this month. As you'll see below, they'll be setting up shop just around the corner from Love City, Roy Pitz Barrel House, Prohibition, The Institute, and the can't-come-soon-enough Rail Park.

Here's what you need to know for now from their latest notice.

Triple Bottom Brewing Company is coming to 915 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA

We are so excited to share that we have found our home in a historic Reading Railroad building on Spring Garden Street. We can't wait to pour you beers in this beautiful space! We're a short walk from Chinatown, Northern Liberties, Temple, and the Broad Street Line, so once we're up and running, we hope you'll stop by. There's still a lot of work ahead of us before we can start brewing, but we are overjoyed to be one huge step closer to that big day.

We're also feeling really grateful that so many people have been sharing in our excitement! If you haven't seen them, please check out the thoughtful articles below:

Billy Penn: Triple Bottom Brewing is bringing beer + social justice to Spring Arts
WHYY: In Spring Garden, trio plan to serve up social justice along with craft beer
Generocity: Triple Bottom Brewing Co. finally found a home: 915 Spring Garden

We'll send periodic updates your way, but don't want to clog your inboxes. For more regular info please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter — or check out our new blog!

Thank you so much for all you've done to support us. Looking forward to seeing you on Spring Garden!

Cheers,
Tess, Bill, & Kyle

Philly Beer Week 2018. What's Up?

(A top 5 PBW 2017 event. What will be at the top of this year's list? Click the picture for more from 2017.)
Well, a little bit of this and little bit of that, but not a whole lot of anything as of yet, judging by the official events calendar over at PhillyLovesBeer.org

With just a bit more than two weeks until showtime, the Hammer of Glory, and Opening Tap, the calendar shows just around 100 "events" as of this afternoon. If I were to apply my expert eye, I'd say the unique, significant, PBW-worthy style events number significantly less.

So far, BAR, Bartram's Garden, Bonk's Bar, Christopher's, Devil's Den, Good Dog Bar, Grey Lodge Pub, Hop Angel Brauhaus, Interstate Draft House, Johnny Brenda's, Jose Pistola's, La Cabra Brewing, Lucky's Last Chance - Manayunk, Lucky's Last Chance - Queen Village, Manayunk Brewery, Memphis Taproom, Monk's Cafe, The Fillmore, The Pub on Passyunk East (P.O.P.E.), Twisted Tail, U-Bahn, Urban Village, and Victoria Freehouse are on the board — with 21 events belonging to the Lucky's family, 19 to the Scoats family of Bonk's, Grey Lodge, and Hop Angel, 10 to Memphis Taproom, 7 to Devil's Den, and 6 to Interstate Drafthouse together comprising more than 60% of the total events scheduled thus far. Some solid bars on this list to-date, but yet a far cry in number from years past. However, if the past is any useful guide, these next two weeks could show a flurry of event additions. If not, it could be an interesting conversation.

Putting all that aside, here's what looks interesting to me at this point. Not enough information about the Hammer of Glory tour yet, so can't really speak to that. Opening Tap is back on Friday night where it belongs and that's a good thing. Another good thing is that it's still being held at The Fillmore, an excellent venue for it. Though, why any other events are allowed to advertise concurrent events with Opening Tap continues to be beyond me. That's Friday.

Saturday is Firkin Riot at Johnny Brenda's, which is always a solid bet. At Monk's Cafe, John Kimmich of The Alchemist and a handful of his beers will be in the house. And I can imagine what Fluff Ed and Russian River means at Memphis Taproom even though it still says Details Coming Soon. It starts at 4:20 so that's helpful! Bar Olympics on Sunday is a perfect fit for Grey Lodge and a good way to put a bow on the first weekend.

On Monday, there's a homebrew challenge event at Jose Pistola's and the annual Omme-gash, It's Alla-gang just down the street at Good Dog. Tuesday? I feel like a suburban visit to Christopher's could be a good call for a beer dinner with 2SP.

Dad Joke Face Off on Wednesday at Devil's Den has all the makings of a debaucherous night. And Thursday at Urban Village, I'd prefer to hear first who's on the panel, but the Don’t F*#k Up The Beer industry panel discussion about quality control sounds like a great afternoon diversion to Northern Liberties. There's a tap takeover at London Grill, but no description. Do we go with blind faith, or ask more of event planners listing these things? But I trust London Grill for a good meal and beers.

To close out PBW 2018 on the second weekend, Friday looks like a good time to check out Mikkeller at Memphis Taproom and then Love City, Singlecut, and Hermit Thrush at The P.O.P.E. On Saturday, it's a party in the street for Fishtown FestivAle on Frankford Ave. outside Johnny Brenda's and Sour Beer Saturday around the corner at Interstate Drafthouse. And on Sunday, sticking near home and La Cabra seems like a good idea, particularly given their Suburban Love Pop-Up Beer Garden featuring breweries of DelCo and ChesCo.

If and when the schedule starts to beef up some more, I'll be back to share the what's-what and maybe even share one of those good ol' fashioned Excel spreadsheets to help navigate the tricky schedule waters.

Monday, May 14, 2018

Sat. May 19 is a big day for you, if you like great beer

Every month is a good month for beer, but each year there's something special about the May calendar of events at Philly area bars and breweries. Warmer weather certainly plays a part as outdoor events become much more popular. Started last week with the Bock Fest & Goat Races at Sly Fox and continues this week.

In Philly? check out the All Star Craft Beer & Wine Festival at the magnificent venue — Citizens Bank Park. I attended last year (on a comp'ed media pass, for the record) and fully endorse this as a top-notch festival with an impressive backdrop as well as the ability to walk the bases, and dugout, at the home of the Phillies.

And when in the city on Saturday, do as I do (and as I did last year) and make a pit stop before the ballpark at South Philadelphia Tap Room for the og hazy — Wheat Beer. They're listing more than 30 wheat beers, many local, some from farther away. It's also an outdoor festival, complete with live music and special food options. Again, highly recommended.

Finally, the awesome suburban town of Media is home to Iron Hill's 18th annual Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers' Festival. It's one of the region's most eagerly anticipated beer events of the spring and is a fundraiser for Media Youth Center. And thinking of the weather, if it should rain (as it has in the past), Iron Hill does a great job of covering the entire festival in large canopy tents. No excuses!

See you at one of these I trust?

Heavy Seas Expansion Plan details

(future taproom rendering courtesy of Heavy Seas)
Long been a fan of Heavy Seas and their pioneering ways for better beer in the Baltimore region since the early-to-mid-90s. Owner Hugh Sisson grew into Heavy Seas from his early days in brewing at Sisson's, then at Clipper City, which morphed into Heavy Seas. And nearly five years ago, former Philadelphian Chris Leonard (General Lafayette) was brought on as Heavy Seas' head brewer. Good people there. Full disclosure: they hosted me for a book signing event in their taproom back in 2015, complete with a custom brewed firkin of Loose Cannon.

Speaking of Loose Cannon, they could leave me with that beer alone and I'd be happy. But, other core beers are just as fine including Cutlass Vienna Lager, Powder Monkey Pale, and Peg Leg Imperial Stout. If the Uncharted Waters series of specialty beers released during the year are any indication of the new "freedom" that brewers will have in the 15-bbl brewhouse described below where "no beer style will be off limits", I think the Baltimore area beer lovers will be in for a treat at the new Heavy Seas.

Heavy Seas Beer Announces Tap Room Expansion Details and New Small-Batch Brewhouse

BALTIMORE (May 8, 2018)—Baltimore-based independent brewery, Heavy Seas Beer, has officially begun a renovation and expansion project, due to be completed June 2019. The endeavor will include a full Tap Room renovation and the addition of a new component to the business, a 15 bbl small-batch brewhouse.

“With these renovations, our new guests, along with loyal customers, will now be able to enjoy their beer in a much larger, livelier setting that truly represents Heavy Seas,” said Director of Marketing & Hospitality at Heavy Seas, Sarah West. “Craft beer enthusiasts from all over will be able to visit and sample award-winning favorites like Loose Cannon as well as new, limited-edition beers from the small-batch brewhouse. There will always be something new to try.”

The renovated Tap Room will be seven times larger than the current space and will feature a private event room. The new setting will be transformed into a sleek, modern destination that embodies the Heavy Seas brand.

It’s very important to Heavy Seas to support the local community since Baltimore has been the brewery’s home for the past 23 years. Therefore, local craftsmen are creating one-of-a-kind tables made completely from reclaimed wood, and Maryland-based designers will be enlisted to design imagery for the expanded space and new product offerings.

The addition of the 15 bbl brewhouse will give the team of brewers the creative freedom to develop a series of beers unique to the Tap Room. These limited releases will break away from the more classic styles Heavy Seas is best known for and include beers that experiment with new hop varieties and different yeast strains. No beer style will be off limits, anything and everything is possible. The first releases will be available for tasting as early as June 2018.

About Heavy Seas Beer
Heavy Seas Beer was founded in 1995 and underwent a major expansion in 2010 with the installation of 11 new fermentation vessels and three new brite tanks, expanding brewery capabilities by 160 percent. Heavy Seas Beer now produces 23 different beer styles, distributes to 20 states as well as Washington D.C. and has become one of the most respected and award-winning craft breweries on the East Coast. Heavy Seas was named Beer Connoisseur Magazine’s 2017 Brewery of the Year.

Experience Heavy Seas Beer
The Tap Room will remain open during renovations, allowing guests to watch the transformation as it unfolds. Weekend and insider brewery tours, starting at $7 per person, will continue to be offered with new themes rotating throughout the year. All tours include a souvenir pint glass and beer sampling.

To learn more about Heavy Seas Beer, visit www.hsbeer.com or follow Heavy Seas Beer on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for announcements and special event details.

Sunday, May 13, 2018

Look out Wine Country, Stone's bringing more great beer to Napa County making it harder to ignore as a beer destination

In keeping with my promise to pass more beer news and press releases along to you, here's one I recently received and is a significant one from California - specifically the southern Calif.-based Stone Brewing (though, can we say that with a brewery in Richmond, Va. and Berlin, Germany?) has infiltrated the north with an opening of a relatively small (10-bbl) brewpub in downtown Napa. Wine country? Let's say, wine & beer country.

Stone Brewing – Napa Opens in California’s Wine Country
Bold craft beer now brewing in the historic 1877 downtown Napa Borreo building

ESCONDIDO, CA (May 7, 2018) – The beer is brewing and the doors are officially open to the new Stone Brewing – Napa, a 9,500 square-foot restaurant and 10 barrel brewery in an iconic 1877 stone building. Stone brings its flavorful craft beer to the region well-known for its amazing wine and cuisine, offering visitors locally-brewed beers, a dining experience, growler fills and Stone merchandise.

“Restoring this historic building has been a complex process which we have been careful to steward with the utmost respect,” stated Greg Koch, Stone Brewing executive chairman & co-founder. “So it is with much pride, and no shortage of relief, that we finally open the doors knowing that we took the time to do it right. Seven years after I first stepped foot in the Borreo building, this place is just what I dreamed of – a top-notch destination devoted to celebrating craft beer.”

Stone’s 10-barrel brewing system will enable the company’s brewers to continue the longstanding tradition of innovation and creativity. The brewing program will be led by Steve Gonzalez, Stone’s six-year veteran Small Batch Senior Manager of Brewing & Innovation. Fortuitously, Steve also had a former career as a winemaker, making him uniquely qualified to bring together the two industries in unique and special ways. This will manifest itself in brewing techniques that include wine-barrel aging, beer recipes that include wine grapes, as well as interesting botanicals from the region’s diverse ecology.

Stone Brewing - Napa will fill growlers and serve Stone’s year-round beers as well as special releases brewed onsite. Guest beers from fellow craft brewers will be featured in a future rotation among 24 taps of beer. Wine by the bottle, glass and on tap will also be available alongside locally-roasted coffee and all-natural craft sodas.

The Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens food philosophy will carry over to the new Napa location with a dining experience that incorporates artisanal products, a focus on environmental responsibility and high-quality ingredients. Stone will purchase local and small-farm organic produce from the Napa region to support its eclectic menu of world-inspired cuisine. The casual yet distinctive menu items include Spent Grain Soft Pretzels, Choripán Argentinian Sausage Sandwich, a Poke Fire Bowl, and The Stone Brewing Impossible Burger. Chef Chris Kurth will manage the Stone Brewing - Napa kitchen. Kurth is a San Diego native who has graced the esteemed kitchens of The US Grant, L’Auberge Del Mar and The Lodge at Torrey Pines.

The brewery and restaurant features two stories including an upstairs seated bar and downstairs tasting/growler fill bar, a fireplace lounge and outdoor seating overlooking the Napa River. Glass walls offer views into the brewery and expansive doors and windows create an indoor/outdoor feel overlooking Downtown Napa. The interior incorporates stone, steel and glass and embraces the imperfections of the historic building. The Borreo building, named for the family that formerly owned the stone structure, is an Italianate Renaissance design made from native-cut stone. It was completed in 1877 and has been vacant since 2001.

Stone’s new outpost is located on 3rd and Soscol Avenue serving lunch and dinner daily. Parking is available across Soscol Ave., less than two blocks away on 3rd street. Its May 6 opening is a preview of the full offering, with menu items and draft beer selections expanding over the following month. Admittedly, putting a brewery and kitchen inside a 141-year-old building posed unexpected delays and the team is ramping up service with a full experience expected in early June.

Stone’s Napa project is the first of three upcoming destinations on a mission to fight the good fight for independent craft beer. Just one week prior to the opening of Stone Brewing – Napa, the Stone Brewing Tap Room – Prenzlauer Berg opened in the Berlin city center, 53 minutes by bike from the brewery and Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Berlin. Also underway, Stone Brewing Tap Room – Shanghai is scheduled to open in China this June.

QUICK FACTS
Address: 3rd and Soscol Avenue, Napa
Phone: 707-252-2337
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 11pm
Friday – Saturday: 11am – 12pm
Reservations: By phone and via OpenTable.com beginning in June
Chef: Chris Kurth
Lead Brewer: Steve Gonzalez

ABOUT STONE BREWING
Founded by Greg Koch and Steve Wagner in 1996, the groundbreaking San Diego-based Stone Brewing is the 8th largest craft brewer in the United States. Recognized as an award-winning industry leader, Stone has been listed on the Inc. 500 | 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies list 12 times and has been called the “All-time Top Brewery on Planet Earth” by BeerAdvocate magazine twice. The multifaceted company was the first American craft brewer to build, own and operate its own brewery in Europe (Berlin, Germany), and also opened a production brewery in Richmond, Virginia in 2016. Known for its bold, flavorful and largely hop-centric beers, Stone has earned a reputation for brewing outstanding, unique beers while maintaining an unwavering commitment to sustainability, business ethics, philanthropy and the art of brewing… and pledging never, ever, sell out to the man. For more information on Stone Brewing, please visit stonebrewing.com or the company’s social media sites: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Next week, not just any Beer Week. American Craft Beer Week

They've been doing this for quite a few years now. Did a little research through the annals of The Brew Lounge and found this fun post I did regarding ACBW back in 2011. Some sightings of brewers you may know.

The Brewers Association has been behind this nationwide push to showcase great American (craft) beer every May since 2006. Plenty going on around the country and this little link will help you with some of that. Though, around these Philly parts, I've casually come across only a few related events such as at Dogfish Head, HiJinx... okay, not really Philly, but maybe they're preoccupied with upcoming Philly Beer Week of its own. The press release follows.

Brewnite for Independence and Seek the Seal During American Craft Beer Week®

Celebrate Small and Independent Brewers Across the Country -May 14-20, 2018-

Boulder, Colo. • May 8, 2018—For the thirteenth consecutive year, small and independent brewers from coast to coast will participate in American Craft Beer Week (ACBW) from May 14-20. Presented by CraftBeer.com—the Brewers Association’s website for beer lovers—ACBW celebrates the country’s more than 6,300 small and independent brewers with events across the nation, including exclusive brewery tours, special beer releases, beer and food pairings, tap takeovers and more.

New this year, CraftBeer.com invites beer enthusiasts to toast independent craft brewers during ACBW by pledging to seek beers marked with the independent craft brewer seal. Those who pledge to seek the seal on the ACBW page on CraftBeer.com will receive their very own independent craft brewer seal pin as a badge of their support.

“While beer lovers regularly enjoy their favorite independent craft beers, American Craft Beer Week is a special occasion that provides craft beer enthusiasts across the country with the opportunity to take part in a larger movement and unite for independence,” said Jess Baker, editor in chief, CraftBeer.com. “This year, we encourage beer lovers to seek the seal and remind them to support independent craft brewers during American Craft Beer Week.”

To help beer lovers brewnite this year, CraftBeer.com created a mosaic made up of beer bottles and cans from across the country featuring the independent craft brewer seal.

Thursday, May 10, 2018

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

With the Craft Brewers Conference and World Beer Cup awards now behind us, the Philadelphia beer region's eyes and thirst are turning to Philly Beer Week, which begins on June 1 and runs for ten days. What will it be this year? What will stand out and create long lasting memories, or at least foggy ones? Time will tell; stay tuned, the calendar is building and I'll share what I know, when I know it.

Click through here for a look at the full monthly calendar of beer events around the Philadelphia region and over here for a look at Philly Tap Finder's event draft lists.

Allentown, Pa.

Mon. 5/14; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. — HiJinx / U&F collabo — American Craft Beer Week at Union and Finch [We are teaming up with our brothers from another mother at HiJinx to host some of their beers during American Craft Beer Week. We'll be pairing small plates with all the HiJinx beers we have on tap that week. $PAYG]

Ardmore, Pa.

Fri. 5/11; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Allagash Brewing Tasting at The Beer Shoppe [Allagash will give away free samples of beer and, like always, during the tasting we will be offering discounts on all takeout Allagash 6 packs. $Free]

Sat. 5/12; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Devils Backbone Tasting at The Beer Shoppe [Be sure to stop in to enjoy the free tastes and discounts on all takeout Devils Backbone 6 packs. $Free]

Bristol, Pa.

Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m. — No One Likes Us, We Don't Care Beer Release at Broken Goblet Brewing Company [Come join us for the release of "No One Likes Us, We Don't Care", our unfiltered IPA. 20% of every sale (including merch) will go to the Make the World Better foundation. This batch was brewed with the assistance of a very special "intern"—Jason Kelce. $PAYG]

Cape May, NJ

Sat. 5/12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Sip Into Spring Festival at Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities [Celebrate spring’s rebirth with exciting outdoor gardening and nature demonstrations,live music, food, wine, beer, Bloody Marys and mimosas, crafts and collectibles, and more. $PAYG]

Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Thu. 5/10; 5 p.m. — Rescue 9 Beer Release at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant [Join us for the release of this traditional German lager brewed in conjunction with the Rockledge Fire Company. $PAYG]

Lancaster, Pa.

Sat. 5/12; 3 p.m.-5 p.m. — "Most Craftacular" Brew Review at Isaac's Pickle Bar [We'll be pairing 4 Spring-inspired dishes with 4 great drafts from Tattered Flag, Crystal Ball, St. Boniface, and Moo-Duck Brewery. $29.95]

Milton, Del.

Mount Hope, Pa.

Sat. 5/12; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. — Brewfest at Mount Hope at Mount Hope Estate & Winery [Fill your sampling glass with beers from a variety of different breweries from across the country, while enjoying live music, various merchants, and complimentary food. $50-$55]

Philadelphia, Pa.

Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m.-8 p.m. — IPA, Champagne, & Rosé Block Party at Hawthornes [Featuring over 75+ kegs & cans from the best breweries from Philly to Cali, Maine to Florida! Dozens of Champagnes, Rosé, Bruts, and Sparkling jawns. We’ll also have 10 food trucks featuring a wide variety of tasty bites. We’ll even have an entire area just for the kiddos. $PAYG]

Sat. 5/12; 1 p.m.-6 p.m. — Beer Brewing Program, Level One at Philly Beer School [This two-day program is the homebrewer’s bible: everything you need to know to brew beer at home from start to finish, including trade secrets to fermentation. $150-$200]

Sat. 5/12; 6 p.m.-11 p.m. — BBQ & Beer at Herman's Coffee [South Philly Smokhaus and 2SP Brewing Company are bringing all the BBQ and Beer to Herman's. $PAYG]

Sun. 5/13; 12 p.m.-9 p.m. — Punk In Drublic at Festival Pier at Penn's Landing [This Punk In Drublic festival date will feature up to four hours of craft beer tastings featuring over 100 craft beers, including some of the best and local favorites. $49.50-$99.50]

Mon. 5/14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. — Bottle Shop Happy Hour at Local 44 [Join us for brewery representative led complimentary tastings and specials on bottle selections from Two Roads. $Free]

Wed. 5/16; 5 p.m. — Brewery Happy Hour Series at Strangelove's [Every month Strangelove’s partners with folks from some of our favorite breweries for a brewery-led Happy Hour featuring complimentary tastings and specials on draft selections from the month's highlighted guest. $Free]

Wed. 5/16; 7 p.m.-9 p.m. — You Buy The Glass at The Abbaye [Keepsake glass, raffles, prizes, and giveaways from Love City Brewing. $PAYG]

Phoenixville, Pa.

Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. — Phoenixville Beer & Wine Festival at Kimberton Fairgrounds [Attendees can sample craft beers, wines, meads, ciders & spirits. Visitors will enjoy live music and browse among our local artisans. Tasty food is available from local restaurants and food trucks. $10-$65]

Sat. 5/12; 12 p.m. — 3rd Anniversary Party at Stable 12 Brewing Company [We will be releasing a Double Dry-Hopped IPA with Galaxy & Citra for the big event. Plus, five new burgers and special wings. $PAYG]

West Chester, Pa.

Fri. 5/11; 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. — Free Friday Tasting at Goshen Beverage [Tasting samples of beers from Fat Head's. $Free]

Wednesday, May 09, 2018

Wrap-up: World Beer Cup 2018 in Nashville, TN

(Click above for a full gallery of pictures documenting my week in Nashville for Craft Brewers Conference and World Beer Cup.)
Am I late getting to you on the topic of the Craft Brewers Conference and the biennial World Beer Cup (WBC) that accompanies it? Depends. If you follow me on the socials, then you'd likely seen me last week chattering about bars and breweries around Nashville - the host town in 2018 - and newsy bits from the conference itself, as well as "live-Tweeting" the area breweries of interest as they won awards during the ceremony on Thursday evening.

You can read the official press release farther down below. The numbers are truly amazing. First up, let's see how our neck of the woods (as defined by PA, DE, and NJ) fared in beer judging competition against beers from around the world. Grand total for the three state region: 3 gold, 9 silver, 2 bronze)

Pennsylvania
2SP (The Russian, silver)—If, by now, you can't see this one coming, you don't know Bob Barrar. Also, gold at Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in both 2016 and 2017.

Conshohocken (Puddler’s Row, silver)—I'll say likewise about this beer as well. Have had numerous sixtels of this on tap at The Brew Lounge and I keep you telling you all about it over and over again. Whether you're listening, well.... Won at WBC in 2016 in Philly as well.

Free Will (Olly, silver)—Again, not much surprise here as one of Free Will's foudre finest. Get it at the next Sour Sunday. Or at the Souderton Theater (you'll need to see the latest news for that reference).

Iron Hill-Media (Solzhenitsyn, bronze)—This, too, is becoming a regular thing in competition. This won at GABF last year and another World Beer Cup award in 2016.

Mad Chef (Mr. Dynamite, silver)—Now here's a little secret for you. I've gone as far as to say that this is one of the best brewpubs in the region that many of you haven't been to and more say they haven't heard of. These guys, Greg and Francisco, are stand up guys and are putting out equally well-done food and beer at their little place outside Lancaster. Really, you need to listen to me more often.

Penn (Penn Gold, gold)—This is the kind of recognition that warms me. Been around for over 20 years (30?) and still winning awards. Brooklyn Lager also took home a gold medal this year proving that it ain't all about the new, flashy, and afternoon 4-pack sales. Its first gold was at GABF twenty years ago in 1998.

Rivertowne (Maxwell’s Scottish, bronze)—Another one that has graced the winner's stage; this one, a recurring seasonal, won in 2014 at World Beer Cup. Enjoy their beers at the ballpark or arena in Pittsburgh.

Roundabout (Heini’s Good Cheer, silver)—If you're in the Pittsburgh area, I wonder if you know about Roundabout. It's in the hot Lawrenceville neighborhood and along with Hop Farm, Full Pint, and Arsenal Cider makes for an excellent stroll along Butler Street. This beer won silver at WBC in 2016 and silver at GABF in 2017. See a pattern here?

Sterling Pig (Shoat, silver)—Brian McConnell and I talked about beer styles, awards, and other such topics the night prior over some Buffalo Trace late in the evening. Then I wished him well and hopes that he'd be walking across the stage. If I can do the same for anyone else, let me know.

Two Rivers (Bangor Slate, gold)—Here's a personal sin. I've enjoyed many of their beers. Heard their name called for awards in the past. I still haven't been to their downtown Easton location. That must be addressed. Soon.

Weyerbacher (Riserva, gold)—Speaking of Easton, was just at Weyerbacher a couple months ago to refresh my memory and to bring home a couple Buffalo Trace barrels (hey, where have I heard that name before). The Riserva? Long a favorite of mine and one I gushed over when judging it during the Philadelphia Inquirer's Brewvitational a few years back. Another just award. And, gold, no less. Riserva took home a GABF last year too.

Delaware
Bellefonte (Grateful Haze Porter, silver)—Now I'm getting into undiscovered territory. Heard of them, but have not yet had the pleasure of an on-site visit. So, I've got no color commentary for you.

Revelation Craft (Peach Berliner Weisse, silver)—Ditto. But, they won for their gluten-free beer last year at GABF, so maybe there's a new guard in Delaware. Someone tell Dogfish Head and others!

New Jersey
Iron Hill-Maple Shade (The Cannibal, silver)—But, no ditto here. Another solid repeat winner from the Iron Hill family and one that I look forward to every year. At Belgium Comes to West Chester event too. Eddie! This has won twice at GABF in the past and this makes the second WBC award for The Cannibal.

2018 World Beer Cup® Winners Announced

8,234 entries from 66 countries compete at the “Olympics of Beer”

Nashville, Tenn. • May 3, 2018—The Brewers Association (BA)—the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American craft brewers—announced the results of the 2018 World Beer Cup Awards. The largest competition to date, the awards were presented at the conclusion of the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America® at Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn.

Beers were judged during six sessions over a period of three days by an elite panel of 295 judges from 33 countries—72 percent of whom were from outside the United States. Judges evaluated 8,234 beers—a 25 percent increase in the number of entries from the 2016 World Beer Cup. Of the 2,515 participating breweries, 807 were from outside the United States.

Out of a possible 303 awards in 101 beer style categories, 302 were awarded. One gold award was not given in Category 36, International-Style Pilsener.

“Beer brings people together,” said Charlie Papazian, founder and past president, Brewers Association. “The World Beer Cup showcases the breadth of the global brewing community and winning an award symbolizes one of the greatest brewing achievements. Congratulations to all the winners on this remarkable accomplishment.”

Competition Highlights

Average number of beers entered per category: 82 (a 13 percent increase from 2016)

Most-entered categories in 2018:

377 entries in Category 93, American-Style India Pale Ale
196 entries in Category 94, Imperial India Pale Ale
196 entries in Category 28, Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
190 entries in Category 29, Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout

Number of countries represented: 66 (a 20 percent increase from 2016)

Countries with the most awards:

United States: 242
Canada: 14
Germany: 9

Country with the highest winning rate: Belgium (10 percent)

Panama won its first-ever World Beer Cup award. All other award-winning countries were previous winners.

The Brewers Association introduced the World Beer Cup competition in 1996 to celebrate the art and science of brewing by recognizing outstanding achievement. The 2018 World Beer Cup is made possible by the generous support of sponsors including presenting sponsor Krones, and partner sponsors Barth-Haas Group, First Key Consulting Inc., MicroStar Logistics, SAHM GmbH + Co. KG, and Siemens.

Tuesday, May 08, 2018

Iron Hill gets lucky in South Carolina with its 13th Grand Opening

Been away for a little while working on deadlines as well as spending a week in Nashville for the Craft Brewers Conference and World Beer Cup. I'll cover the latter later this week.

First up, I knew it was coming and all of a sudden it was here. Iron Hill now has a shop down south; pretty far down south as a matter of fact. South Carolina. I continue to impressed and proud of the company culture, the measured growth plan, and of course the final product of people, atmosphere, food, and beer.

In case you were not aware, the other twelve locations are in Delaware (Newark [1996] and Wilmington [2003]), New Jersey (Maple Shade [2009] and Voorhees [2013]), and Pennsylvania (Media [2000], West Chester [1999], North Wales [2004], Phoenixville [2006], Lancaster [2007], Chestnut Hill/Philly [2012], Ardmore [2014], and Huntingdon Valley [2016]).

The next three locations on the docket are Center City Philadelphia, Rehoboth Beach, Del., and Hershey, Pa. These additions will take them close to 2,000 employees strong. Not too shabby, eh?

Here's the official press release.

Lucky Number 13: Iron Hill Opens In Greenville

Award-Winning Brewery and Restaurant Brings Craft Kitchen, Scratch Beer to Palmetto State

Wilmington, DE (May 1, 2018) – Delaware-based Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant further expands their brewery and restaurant portfolio with the opening of their 13th location in Greenville, SC. Located at 741 Haywood Road, the launch is a major part of the company’s aggressive ‘20 by ‘20’ initiative. It marks the first location in a new market for the group, and promises to bring the delicious, made from scratch menu items and creatively crafted beer for which the popular restaurant group is widely known, to the south.

Operating Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., the newest Iron Hill location at the bustling Haywood Mall area is bringing an additional 100 full and part time jobs to the Greenville region. Designed by Boulder-based Bray Architecture, the brewery and restaurant spans 7,500 sq. ft. and has a seating capacity of 250, which includes an on-site brewery, cocktail area, and an outdoor patio. The brewery, which is fully operational on-site, will produce between 800 to 900 barrels of their award-wining craft beer annually.

The on-site brewery will enable Iron Hill Greenville to deliver the same craft beer freshness with the new Upstate Kolsch, an homage to the brand’s 13th location, and favorites such as the award-winning signature Vienna Red™ Lager, Iron Hill Light Lager and White Iron® Wit, as well as deliciously wholesome fare including the Brewski Burger ($13.50), Gold Medal Baby Back Ribs ($17.00/$25.00), Char-Grilled Ribeye Steak ($29.00), Baked Chesapeake-Style Crab Cakes ($27.00) and Pan Roasted Organic Chicken ($21.00). Along with signature menu items and craft beer, there will be a daily feature sheet, showcasing chef created dishes using the freshest seasonal ingredients.

In addition to their brand-wide donation to CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, and as part of Iron Hill’s philanthropy and commitment to the communities they serve, the brewery and restaurant will be collaborating with Greenville’s Project Host to donate $0.75 from each Triple Chocolate Hill dessert sold in order to support their efforts to nourish the hungry and train the unemployed.

“Our team is very excited to join this vibrant and growing community,” says co-founder Kevin Finn. “The expanding local craft beer scene in Greenville is something we’re proud to be a part of. We’re thrilled to be able to offer a new place to enjoy delicious beer and food with good friends and look forward to bringing some Southern hospitality into Iron Hill’s trademark service.”

About Iron Hill

Named after the historic Revolutionary War landmark in Delaware, where General George Washington battled the British, Iron Hill is among the most enduringly successful craft brewers in the United States. Their 21-year consecutive winning streak of winning medals at national and international competitions is the longest by any craft brewery.

Founded by home brewers Kevin Finn, Mark Edelson and restaurateur Kevin Davies in Newark, DE in 1996, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant has blossomed from one restaurant and brewery to 13 locations up and down the East Coast, including Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey and South Carolina. Each brewery/restaurant has their own craft kitchen and scratch brewery, allowing individual chefs and brewers the creativity to pair the freshest ingredients with the highest quality grains and hops. For 21 years, Iron Hill has incorporated beer in everything they do. As a result, Finn, Edelson and Davies are viewed as innovative business leaders in their home state of Delaware and in the Mid-Atlantic region. They started Iron Hill at a time when small breweries were just beginning to gain mass appeal around the country and their entrepreneurial, forward-thinking helped build them into what they are to date. Each individual location has their own head brewer. Each location dedicates itself to the freshest ingredients and friendly atmosphere for all age groups – helping change overall perceptions about brewpubs one meal, one pint, one community at a time.