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Sunday, November 14, 2010

Broken Barrel Tavern *update*

Hello Barrel Heads!!!

This is a reminder that all Thanksgiving orders are due by this Wed, Nov. 17th. $49.99 gets you a smoked turkey and 5 sides. And as an added bonus, since our food supplier could not guarantee the birds at 8-10 lbs, we are giving out birds that will average from 8-14lbs. There is not additional charge for these larger birds but they will be selected at random, though most birds we have received to this point have indeed been larger than 10 lbs. YOU CAN'T BEAT THIS DEAL ANYWHERE!

Also, Beer school the next two Saturdays for all you beer drinking Geeks! Intro to Beer school, offered quarterly, will be this Saturday the 20th @ 4pm. Beer Styles 101 will be offered the following Sat, Nov. 27th also at 4pm. Each class is $10 and you will be getting far more than that in samples. Former students graduating Magnum Cum Lager from the first beer school are welcome to attend again, as several of you have already chosen to do. This is a great way to use education an excuse to drink Beer!

One final note, we are also booking out our back room very quickly for Holiday Parties, so be sure to get your booked ASAP! We also offer drop off, pick up and full catering service.

Location & Hours
Phone: 321.728.4755
 

Beers,
Kevin

Saturday, November 13, 2010

BEERflections ~ Corner Cafe & Brewery 2nd Anniversary Celebration

It seems just like yesterday that I was cruising south on I95 to join Matt, Lisa, Jim, Juan, and others in the festivities celebrating Matt’s first full year brewing his beers for thirsty Tequestrians and beyond. Tequesta is an itsy bitsy sleepy town nestled between Jupiter and Stuart, blink and you’ll miss it. A treasure trove neither too big nor too small, Corner Café & Brewery is just right. Hidden from the casual observer within an old strip mall off US Highway 1, much like Tequesta, blink and you’ll miss out on some of the best food and beers to grace thine tremulous lips.

A veteran homebrewer long before he struck a fortuitous partnership with Lisa and Jim, Matt flawlessly translated his brewing prowess into brewing artfully creative and tastefully balanced beers for the lucky citizens of Tequesta. As promised for this most hallowed of celebrations, Matt crafted two special beers, one to delight the hopheads and the other to inspire the maltheads.

The first was a double IPA (India Pale Ale) aged on oak. Shimmering orange and golden hues, her fluffy pithy head eventually receded enough to free a lively nose of orange oils and zest, whole hop cones, pine sap, pine needles, and grapefruit rind with the white oak weaving them all together without overpowering. Within her tasteful confines I found a rightfully sappy sticky body bursting with fresh orange oils, zest, pine resins, and a lingering honeyed fruity sweetness underneath. Much like her nose, the white oak weaves in and out, slowly drying the palate without parching it. Lovely, simply lovely.

And for those who ride with our friend the malt, there was the Bourbon Barrel Milk Stout. An old friend, we quickly grew reacquainted after ample time to adjust to cozier temperatures for intimate indulgence. I first ran into Matt’s Bourbon Barrel Milk Stout at the 2009 Field of Beers and it pleases me greatly to say she hasn’t changed a bit. Dark and delicious, she caressed my tastebuds with melted caramels, chocolate truffles and nougat, vanillin, and finished with a slow soothing bourbonesque aura which left warmth in my breath and chest. A sensuous delight, nights fantasia are made of this.

Of course, Matt had his stalwart line-up of year-round brews flowing in good measure. Many a Gnarly Barley, Julio Jefe-weizen, Kaiser, and Terminally Ale were savored alongside their 2nd Anniversary sister brews. To avoid confusion and complications, only pints were poured that night, November 4th 2010, though on all other days one also has the heady choice of a 240z glass within which to savor the beery bliss.

Not that the beers needed help but any worthy celebration of good beer and good times demands good food, something the Corner Café has in spades. Last year’s inaugural celebration saw the carving of a whole roast pig while this year’s saw the return of not one but two whole roast pigs amongst other assorted nibblies. One didn’t have to eat at the Anniversary Buffet but for the sweet price of $20, you’d be crazy not to. While the full menu of mind-blowing tastebud-tantalizing burgundianvana was also available that night, I unabashedly raided the twice relocated buffet to partake of:
Whole roast pig (orange optional); Caribbean dolphin (white sauce based); Caribbean jerk wings (herbs, crunch, and just enough heat); beef sliders (for the plain janes); black beans and rice (always a classic); plantains (sweetly sautéed to melt-in-the-mouth indulgence); yucca (generously battered); sautéed mixed veggies (crisp and fresh); potato salad (mayonnaise based with a pleasant vinegar nip); cole slaw; fresh cut fruit; chips and Juan’s salsa.

Think that will be enough to tide you over? Well, if not or even so, no dinner is complete without dessert. Mom taught me well and it is a dining tradition this burgundian is more than happy to continue. For me, the brownie was where my lust lay, especially when partaken with the justly warm Bourbon Barrel Milk Stout.

A bite…A quaff…

Angels harped, cherubs trumpeted, and flavorvana descended as eyes rolled white and a low moan rumbled through my body from the very tippy toe to the tallest hair. Wow! Yum! I think I shall have another, please and thank you.

Sharing in the good times were a few random beer tasting peeps and former Great Spirits customers along with my Timmy-poo of JJ Taylor fame and my fellow Veroite, Eric. By sheer coincidence, I ran into Dan Oliver whom up until then had just been a voice and an email address during the course of promoting the now passed 3rd Annual Treasure Coast Beer Fest. But I digress. From three past noon to eve, taps relinquished beery bliss, notes were taken, flash flashed, food savored, company relished, and another milestone celebrated. I even got so lucky as to sneak a brief peek at Matt’s upcoming venture, his very own brewpub, Tequesta Brewing Company. Aptly located right next to Corner Café, the stars are indeed shining bright. With a brand new brewhouse ready to create beer magic any day now, a bar steeped in history, and a growler machine to end all growler machines, there will be far more southerly beer skirmishes to Tequesta in my near and far reaching future.

As exemplified that Wednesday, no amount of dreary Florida showers or a crippled muffler will keep Kristyn Lier from enjoying life to its utmost at any given moment of any given day. This is my life, and I am blessed beyond comparable words thanks to beer and the spirituous life I live. Holy mackerel and peanut butter, life is good.



(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Friday, November 12, 2010

Total Wine *Jensen Beach/Stuart* Grand Opening Weekend

Come celebrate 3 days of Total Wine fun at their newest location in Jensen Beach/Stuart. Starting today, Friday, and on through Sunday, there will be day long tastings with some very special breweries and guests. See below for details!

Friday:
  • all day Sierra Nevada and Samuel Adams beer tasting from 11am - 6pm.
  • ribbon cutting ceremonies are from 5pm - 8pm for which Cigar City will be representing good Florida beer by pouring some of their eclectic tasty brews.

Saturday:
  • Samuel Adams will be pouring once more from 11am - 6pm
  • Orange Blossom Pilsner (OBP) and its founder, Tom Moench, will be pouring from 1pm - 4pm
  • Pilsner Urquell and Peroni will be pouring from 2pm - 6pm.

Sunday:
  • from 12pm - 2pm yours beerly, Kristyn Lier, will be pouring Boulder Brewing whose selections include Hazed & Infused, Mojo IPA, Sweaty Betty, and their winter seasonal, Never Summer Ale.
  • from 2pm - 4pm yours beerly will be pouring Dogfish Head whose selections include 60 Minute IPA, 90 Minute IPA, Midas Touch, Raison d'Etre, and Pal Santo Marron.

Cigar City Brew News

Either/Or Release,Cajun Cafe Beer Festival, SideBerns Beer Dinner
 

Hey Guys,
First of all, we are speechless at the amount of support we have received in the last 24 hours for our Tasting Room that now hangs in the balance of the Tampa City Council's decision to let us continue operating. Your continued support is what is going to keep our doors open; so please keep the phone calls, letters, and emails flowing!

Tomorrow (November 12th) we will be releasing Either and Or, our collaboration with Hill Farmstead and Grassroots Brewing. We will have it available on tap, and in 12 oz. single bottles beginning at 11am.

Don't forget this Saturday, November 13th is the Cajun Cafe Beer Festival. Over 100 Specialty, Craft, and Imported Beers; along with the best Cajun Food this side of Louisiana will be available for your enjoyment along with great live jazz from Bobby Tess. Tickets are available at the door only and are limited as are portions of that awesome whiskey bread pudding Paul usually has around! The CCB crew will be out pouring our wares and rumor has it there are some special kegs of ours Paul has saved for the occasion. It should be a great time, hope to see you there!

Please join us Tuesday, November 16th for a Cigar City Brewery Dinner at SideBerns.

Here is the list of 7 Beers to be tasted:

  • Jai Alai India Pale Ale
  • Humidor Series Ale
  • Guava Grove
  • Maduro Oatmeal Brown Ale
  • 110K+OT
  • Marshal Zhukov Imperial Stout
  • Cubano Espresso

From SideBern's Press Release:

SideBern's is pleased to present our first ever brewery dinner. It is fitting that we chose to work with Tampa's own Cigar City Brewery. Crafting award-winning brews made with local influence, CCB is a true gem in Tampa's ever evolving cultural crown. If you have never been to their tasting room, located next to the brewery, you need to make a trip. These beers are as unique as they are delicious. Chef Chad tasted through the line-up with the CCB team and set an order to the dinner from the light hop driven Jai Alai IPA to the creamy rich Marshal Zhukov Imperial Stout. The menu is still in the works, as the seasons dictate what will be used for each course. Look for more details soon but don't wait to buy a ticket.

We have a limited amount of seats.
Here is the link for online ticket purchase:
http://www.bernsfinewines.com/r/products/sidebern-s-beer-dinner

Until next time,

Cheers!
Travis

Thursday, November 11, 2010

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

WOB Viera News

Most Arrogant Bar!
The competition starts this Saturday November 13th to November 19th for the Most Arrogant Bar title for 2011. To accomplish this feat, we have decided to offer draft and bottle specials on the following Stone Bastard family Stone Bastard family including Arrogant Bastard, Oaked Arrogant Bastard, and Double Bastard. Unfortunately, the special keg, Lucky Bastard, from Stone is not ready for release but will be here in couple weeks. Consumption must take place during that week. Also retail sales count towards the title. Let's make your bar take a place in history.

Thanksgiving!
When you are finished eating your Thanksgiving feast and hanging out with family and friends, stop by WOB. We are opening our doors at 5 pm so you can come enjoy your favorite beer or some great seasonal beers. Also for the early risers that are catching some great sales on Black Friday, we are opening early at 10 am for those that need to have a break, relax and enjoy great beer.

Brooklyn Brew Party!
Tuesday November 30th, We will be featuring Brooklyn Brewery. We will have an extensive line up of great Brooklyn beer along with representation from the brewery. Save the date and keep reading your emails for updates.

Golf Tournament News!
Unfortunately, we had to cancel the golf tournament. For those that wanted to participate but couldn't, don't worry, we are planning to reschedule it for the spring. When the date is scheduled, we will keep you posted.

New Bottles
  • Harpoon 100 Barrel Series #33, 6.7% (Massachusetts)
  • Harpoon Pots Land Bier, 4.8% (Massachusetts)
  • Harpoon Winter Warmer, 5.9% (Massachusetts)

New Drafts
  • Lagunitas Brown Shugga, 9.5% (California)
  • Sierra Nevada Estate, 6.7% (California)
  • Terrapin Moo Hoo, 6% (Georgia)

Live Music This Week
  • Thursday - James Johnson
  • Friday - Iris
  • Saturday - Christian Wilson Duo

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Cigar City Brew News

The Tasting Room Needs Your Help Again.

Last Thursday we went to get our temporary wet-zoning made permanent and to extend our hours of operation. Since we have operated for two years without incident this should have been a rubber stamp. But, due to politics, a willful lack of understanding and what I personally believe is just a downright embracing of unfair practices, we got a 3-3 vote (you need 4 yes votes) and had to reschedule.

Our next trip in front of the Tampa City Council will be December 2nd. My birthday. We need 4 votes at this meeting and a following one or we lose our wet-zoning on the 16th of December. This means no more Tasting Room, no more special events, no more limited release parties, no beer for sell, at all, at the Tasting Room.

We have had no incidents at the Tasting Room. There has never been a police call for the brewery. We have never been cited for any violations. In short, we have shown, through our actions not our words, that we are a responsible business and neighbor. And oh by the way, while the economy has been stumbling along we have gone from 2 employees to 22. And some of those employees are in danger of losing their jobs because some members on the city council lack leadership and critical reasoning skills.

I don't know if we can change any minds. Some bias runs too deep. But I am humbly asking of everyone that supports craft beer in the Bay Area to help us. If you ever wondered why Florida is often considered a beer wasteland, dealing with provincial politicians and unfair laws is one of the reasons. And we have run headlong into that fact many times. This is just another iteration of the climate breweries have to operate in here.

This is what you can do to try to help. Contact ALL of the members of City Council. If you live in the city and vote, tell them so. If you live outside the city or the state, tell them Cigar City Brewing is one of the reasons you come into the city to spend money. In short, let the council know that Tampa having a craft beer scene is important to you. Handwritten letters (addresses are int he links) are always more personal, but if you simply do not have time there is an online contact for each member. And there is a phone # for each member as well. Feel free to call and let the members know that CCB and craft beer are important to you.

These are the three members of Council who voted against us.

Gwen Miller

Thomas Scott
Curtis Stokes
 

These are those Council members who voted for us, let them know that you appreciate that they looked at evidence and fact and were not swayed by unsubstantiated claims.

Mary Mulhern

Yvonne Yoli Capin

Joseph Caetano
 

Finally, the member who was absent. Let Charlie Miranda know you support CCB and craft beer and are counting on his yes vote on December 2nd.

Charlie Miranda
 

I want to thank everyone for their support. When I look back at the last two years and see the growth we have had it both amazes and humbles me. And I know that any success we have had is due to our loyal supporters who buy our beer and spread the word to others. We appreciate and value that support and regret that we must lean on you again, but we truly do need your help again desperately.

Cheers,

The CCB Staff and Joey Redner

Saturday, November 06, 2010

Beer Tasting @ Total Wine *Jensen Beach/Stuart*

Brand spanking new and ready to fulfill your beery and spiritous needs, come check out the new Total Wine & More in Jensen Beach/Stuart. There are two beer tastings this weekend:

When: Saturday, November 6th
  • Bob Gordash of Holy Mackerel will be tasting his three beers from 11am - 2pm. Beers: Holy Mackerel Golden, Mack in Black, and the newest, his Panic Attack.
  • Diageo will be tasting the new to Florida Guinness Foreign Extra Stout from 11am - 4pm.
  • Moosehead will be tasting their Moosehead Lager and Moosehead Light from 2pm - 6pm.

When: Sunday, November 7th
**Yours beerly will be pouring this day so come say Hello those who have been in Kristyn beer tasting withdrawal**
  • From 12pm - 2pm I will be tasting four wonderful beers from Breckenridge. They are the Avalanche Amber, Agave Wheat, Lucky U IPA, and the sublime Vanilla Porter.
  • From 2pm - 4pm I will be tasting all 6 beers from Oskar Blues Brewing, the original craft beer in a can. The beers are Mamas Little Yella Pils, Dales Pale Ale, Gordon, Old Chub Scottish Ale, Gubna, and...this year's newest batch of Ten Fidy.

Location:
Vista Plaza
2550 NW Federal Highway
Stuart, FL 34994
772-692-1530

Have fun, be responsible, and check out your new Total Wine of Jensen Beach/Stuart!

Friday, November 05, 2010

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Cigar City Brew News

Either/Or, Tocobaga Ale, and a food tasting of the Asian Persuasion


Tocobaga Ale is back in the tasting room and on it's way to taps within our distribution area. This 7.2% hoppy, amber ale is quickly becoming a very popular offering where ever it becomes available so try it when you see it! We already have more in the tanks, fermenting away so I am guessing it should be available for a while. In the tasting room we are pouring growlers of it, so if you are close by come and get them filled. For now Tocobaga Ale will be draft only.


The first of our Pilot Series beers, an Imperial Sweet Stout is now on tap in the tasting room. With Marshal Zhukov's tap drying up for the time being this will make a great replacement! Weighing in at around 12%ABV, Ben's not messing around as we can see from his first offering! The result is a smooth full bodied stout, sweet but balanced with flavors of roasted malt and a delicate bitterness. Also coming soon will be a Dark Mild and a Table Saison all brewed right here 45 gallons at a time!


Either and Or were packaged this week, these black beauties will be released next week in the tasting room and should be in retail establishments soon after. Starting next Friday, you can purchase 12 oz.bottles of both and for this very special release we will have them on draft for you to try in the tasting room side by side. Which will be your favorite? Only one way to find out! Draft is going to be very limited for this release so be sure to stop by if you can!


Tickets are now available for the Asian Persuasion food tasting which will be here at the brewery on December 4th from 7-10pm. Presented by Loko Cuisine, the tasting will feature 5 courses of food engineered to pair delightfully with our ales.The price is $20 per person, and your first beer is included. Tickets are available online through Loko Cuisine's website only, so click here to get yours today! Here is a look at the menu:







With the holiday season coming up, we'd like to remind you that nothing compliments (and helps to get you through) your gatherings with friends and family better than a few pints.. or more. Kegs of Jai-Alai IPA and Maduro Brown Ale are available for sale during the tasting room hours and can also be ordered in advance for your events! They are available in 5 gallon and 50 liter (13.2) gallons sizes. If that is too much you can always come and fill up those growlers! We now have the 1 gallon size back in stock, ready to be filled.


Moving up in the world, we now have a selection of specialty sodas available in the tasting room for the designated driver, pregnant women who get dragged here by their beer crazed spouses, and Charlie Sheen since supposedly he's on the wagon again! All are made with natural ingredients, do not contain high fructose corn syrup, and taste drastically more fantastic than that diet whatever you are drinking now! Of course you are here for the beer, but just in case you're here and want something else give them a try!


Now on Tap!
  • Jai-Alai IPA
  • Maduro Brown Ale
  • Cubano Espresso
  • Vanilla Maduro- almost gone!
  • Bolita Double Brown
  • Seabass Farmhouse Ale
  • Pilot Series Imperial Sweet Stout
  • Coco Loco
  • Tocobaga Ale
  • Jose Marti Porter
  • Humidor IPA


Guest Tap:
  • Dunedin Brewery Celtic Gold Ale


Until next time,
Cheers!
Travis

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Flying Fish Brewery & Florida

**...direct from their brewery newsletter. Having tasted a few of their beers thanks to the sis, I can say wholeheartedly, Welcome to the Sunshine State!**

VA, SC, GA, AZ, NV & FL: FLYING FISH HEADING YOUR WAY 
Yep, after keeping our distribution within 100 miles, we've dipped our toes into expansion. Working with our friends at Total Wines and More, we will be featured in all of their stores in the above states starting this month. That includes all new Exit releases as well. Once approvals are through, we'll also be in their stores in CA and NC. Check out the current list of store locations.

French Quarter Beer Dinner ~ December

When: December 5th, 2010
Where: French Quarter in downtown Vero Beach, FL
Time: 5pm - 9pm
RSVP: yes please!!! 772-770-4870 (limited seating)
Cost: $29.50 per person (does not include tax & gratuity)
Menu: **I have the beers and will have the complete dinner menu Friday so keep an eye open, the phone at the ready, and get ready to RSVP!!!**
  • Appetizer: Southampton Biere de Mars
  • Main Course: Lazy Magnolia Southern Pecan Brown Ale
  • Dessert: Breckenridge Vanilla Porter

BEERflections ~ A Day with The Bruery @ Vine & Barley

From inception some breweries are destined for culinary prowess the likes of which burgundians the world over live, breathe, and create. One such brewery out of Placentia, California has all those passions of beer and food at heart: The Bruery. Relatively new to Florida’s Treasure Coast, she has been slowly and surely pleasing the palates of you and me. Bottled or on draft, this veteran and sometimes jaded beer ambassador has been smitten with The Bruery long before they set foot on these sandy shores thanks to RateBeer Orlando throwdowns. To celebrate their beers of soulful flavor, Vine & Barley of St. Lucie West tapped not one, two, or even three but six different beers for A Day With The Bruery.

A subdued event, Monday notwithstanding, there were still good vibrations in the air as I parted those double doors around 6pm and savored Vine’s familiar surroundings. Just like home, no matter how much time has passed it always feels just like yesterday. On their way out were veteran Viners, Allison and Whitney, whose company is always a pleasure. Next time ladies, next time. Farewells exchanged in passing, I made it up to the bar where I ran into Mark, Louise, Joe, Marc, and of course the one and thankfully only, Mark Carbone. Sneaking in later that evening was Eric and John, his lodge brother and friend. Tim Hebeler pause in for a brief beer social before making his way home to what was hopefully a good long night of sleep. A one man powerhouse, these beertiful events would in large part not even be a twinkle in my eye if it wasn’t for Tim’s tireless and selfless efforts, all for the love of good beer. Not that the fine gentleman of BeerWorks and beyond haven’t had an effect on the wonderfully wide world of beer along the Treasure Coast. They have and they still do with no plans to do anything less.

Feeling the relaxed atmosphere permeate my tired body, I lived the night in calm comfort. Though there were six, my aim was to try those Bruery delights that I had not tasted on draft before. Considering my choices, I started with the herbaceous Trade Winds Tripel, cruised through the hoppily dry Mischief, and ended with the sublime Coton. Eric likened the Coton to a poor man’s Utopias, a comparison I could see, smell, and taste to certain extents. But why drink just one when you can drink both, albeit in a happily abject state of poverty. Riches are beholden to the eye that sees them though and in both are treasures equal and separate.

But I digress…

My triple date of Bruery dames were all fine affairs of the heart. In the good company of beer and friends, time was immaterial. Only when an intangible shift in the air signaled the end of our social affairs were farewells exchanged in jolly good fashion. On my way home, windows down, I simply basked in the cool touch of night as home rounded the bend. Inside yet not quite snug, nibblies were in order and the last of two bacon-wrapped scallops with brown sugar and cinnamon met their tasty demise. Not one to leave any soldiers behind, the bacon and blue cheese topped crustinis were also shamelessly savored in midnight munchy madness. Special thanks to my lovely for sharing such decadently divine morsels with me. So good!

Lounging in my trust Lazyboy, tummy beyond satisfactory sated, my attentions were turned to a bed still covered in clean clothes the house elves neglected to put away during my absence. A laundry shuffle later, the bed was filled with Kristyn and my head was filled with visions of Bruery flavor alchemy and bacon, beautiful bacon. Cheers and good night.



(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Schenck to Distribute Orlando Brewing

**per Orlando Brewing newsletter**

Breaking News:

As a treasured customer of Orlando Brewing, we are appreciative and respectful of your loyalty and support for our products. The demand for your Orlando Brewing Company beers has grown steadily over the last year, thus to answer this call for a larger presence in the market place our distribution system needed to grow also. Ancient City has been a loyal partner in growth, but is unable to continue with us on that path.

We are informing you that Orlando Brewing has secured the services of a World Class Distributor. Schenck Company is now partnering with us to bring our great beer and their award winning customer service to you. To order Orlando Brewing beers please contact your current Schenck representative.


If you are not currently a Schenck client you may call the brewery (407)872-1117 or e-mail the brewery at info@OrlandoBrewing.com.

Corner Cafe & Brewery 2nd Anniversary Celebration *TODAY*

Alright all my peeps and peepettes, I don't have all the details yet but hope to by the end of the day and will update accordingly. In the meantime I can at least get some of the specifics out there. I can still taste vividly last year's 1 Year Anniversary Celebration and no doubt this year's 2nd Anniversary celebrating two years of Matt's fantastically tastetacular beers at Corner Cafe & Brewery in Tequesta, FL will be equally epic.

Date: Thursday, November 4th, 2010
Where: Corner Cafe & Brewery
Time: 6pm - 9:30pm
FaceBook Latest: Okay last reminder....anniversary party tonight. Two great special beers and tons of wonderful food. Beers go on tap at 3pm and food around 530pmish.
Beers: The Kaiser; Julio's 'Jefe'weizen; Gnarley Barley; Terminally Ale; and a special beer or two just for the anniversary celebrations.

Trust! You will want to be there!
Me?
Ohyeah. I wouldn't miss it for anything!
To give the curious an idea what to expect, check out last year's 1 Year Anniversary celebrations HERE.

WOB Viera News

Will hits 1000!
Stop by tonight at 6 pm because Will J. will getting his 1000 beer! This is the highest honor anyone has ever achieved at any World of Beer. When you see Will, congratulate him. We are so proud!

Victory Rollout Party!
Friday evening, November 5th, we are throwing a rollout party for Victory beer. They have finally made it to Brevard county from Pennsylvania. We will be featuring an extensivedraft line up of Victory beers along with bottles. Come in this weekend to welcome Victory Brewery to Brevard county!

Customer Appreciation Day!
This Sunday, Novermber 7th, we are rolling out the barbecue. Starting at 1:30 pm the grill will be cooking up hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken and marinated vegetables. Stop by, grab a beer, watch NFL, barbecue and hang out at WOB! For more great events click here!

St. Bernardus Night!
Also this Sunday, Novermber 7th, all the way from Belgium, Marco Pasarello from St. Bernardus will be here for a meet and greet. This former brewmaster will be talking about the history of the brewery. His arrival will be at 7pm till 9 pm. We will have on draft St. Bernardus ABT 12, Prior 8, Pater 6, Witbier and St. Bernardus Christmas. You do not want to miss this special visit.

Beer and Food Pairing!
Tuesday, November 9th, come by for another amazing food pairing. We will be featuring Harpoon Brewery from Vermont. Your favorite master chefs will be preparing a four course meal that will be paired with the following beers: Harpoon UFO, IPA, Wet Hop and Winter Warmer. The event starts at 6pm. Tickets are available for $25 but a limited amount will be sold. Also, stopping by will be representatives from Harpoon Brewery for a meet a greet. Hurry in and purchase you ticket(s) before they are all gone!

Great American Golf Tournament!
The deadline is looming and if you haven't registered, you better to it now. It's only nine days away till Saturday, November 13th! Don't miss the best golf tournamant around Brevard County. Where can you go and get breakfast, lunch, dinner, NINE holes of free beer and prizes? Come join us to help benefit Nana's House children's charity. Click here for more information about how to register, sponsorship and Nana's House. What are you waiting for?

Most Arrogant Bar!
This year we will be competing with the entire United States for the Most Arrogant Bar title for 2011. To accomplish this, those who are worthy must do your part by consuming this arrogant goodness. We will be featuring the entire Stone Bastard family including Arrogant Bastard, Oaked Arrogant Bastard, Double Bastard and will be introducing a new edition to the bastard family. (You will have to wait and see what it is.) We will have ridiculous draft and bottle specials to help the cause. Consumption must take place from November 13 to November 19. Come out during that time and help make your bar take a place in history.

New Bottles
  • Belhaven Twisted Thistle, 6%, (Scotland)
  • Belhaven Wee-Heavy, 6.5% (Scotland)
  • Bell's Special Cream Stout, 6% (Michigan)
  • Boulder Never Summer, 5.94% (Colorado)
  • Dogfish Head Pangaea, 7% (Delaware)
  • Ft. Collins Common Grund, 5.6% (Colorado)
  • Left Hand Oxymoron, 7.2% (Colorado)
  • Left Hand Warrior, 6.6% (Colorado)
  • Southampton Imperial Porter, 7.5% (New York)

New Drafts
  • Dogfish Head Pangaea, 7% (Delaware)
  • Lost Coast Raspberry, 6.5% (California)
  • St. Bernardus Christmas, 10% (Belgium)
  • The Bruery Autumn Maple, 10% (Canada)
  • Victory Hopdevil, 6.7% (Pennsylvania)

Live Music This Week
  • Thursday - Wilcor
  • Friday - C-Lane & Beav
  • Saturday - Matt Adkins & Jay DiBella

Monday, November 01, 2010

BEERflections ~ Oktoberfest Dinner @ Town Crier Pub

One could argue that it’s not really Fall until the Oktoberfest celebrations begin. A centuries old German tradition, this spirit of festive times, community, good food, and good beer has found itself at home all over the world. Typically one thinks of the Marzen, aka Oktoberfest, when it comes to this holiday’s fermented brew. Malty, caramelized, and sporting a light hop profile, foods galore line up to have a chance at the table together, steins and feet thumping in boisterous cheer. Now imagine if one took that idea one step further, proposing in sophisticated assurance an Oktoberfest Dinner of burgundian proportions.

Fantastic! But how?

That my peeps and peepettes is where the talents who conspire to bring me successful brewmaster dinner after successful brewmaster dinner at Town Crier Pub step up to the challenge. An Oktoberfest dinner with an American craft beer twist, the stage was set to unfold on Monday October 25th at the always fashionable 7pm sharp.

Now if I may have a moment of your time, I’d like to shine a light of appreciation unto these special dinners. Times are tough and rarely anyone is immune, but there is a word to describe the value of these beer dinners at $39.99 + tax & gratuity: supercalifragilisticexpidelilicieuse. Top notch food, beers, and service could not be found near or far. Anywhere else beer dinners woo and seduce, the asking price is easily double, sometimes triple, which is all that much more reason to savor our flavorful fortunes in our bastion of sunny Florida, the Treasure Coast.

And now back to our regularly scheduled program, the Town Crier Pub Oktoberfest Dinner. A dinner never missed and a dinner I never will miss, especially the first ever mixed beer dinner. What I mean by mixed is the beers featured over five courses were from five different breweries. All dinners past featured one brewery while highlighting five chosen beers from their vaunted portfolio. In more ways than one, the twists were going to dazzle and delight as only American craft breweries can in the tender care of the Crier. Working together with Tim Hebeler of JJ Taylor, head chef George Citron crafted five delectable courses with a nod toward German heritage; inspiration was full circle. One unique feature was the gentle progression of burgundian indulgence in order of lesser complexity to greatest complexity. Another first was the inclusion of a salad to said progression of courses and it was here amidst the greenery that my burgundian euphoria climaxed.

Salads are a personal favorite taste treat, but whether George and Tim knew this in the creation of our second course is a mystery of irrelative importance. Fantastically fresh spinach leaves were decked to the nines with crunchy walnuts, tingly creamy grassy goat cheese crumbles, Sauerkraut dressing, and a handmade garlic crustini. Hidden underneath in savory sight was a single slice of Heirloom reds, greens, and yellows. Yours beerly was red, Mike’s green, Paula’s yellow, and suddenly something as seemingly simple as a tomato slice becomes an integral feature of salad perfection. Her partner in flavor was the Kellerweisse from Sierra Nevada. Visually stunning, with each bite a quaff and with each quaff a bite. Soft, nutty, herbal, fruity, bready…it was a seamless procession of flavor harmony until there was no more salad to bite and Kellerweisse to quaff.

The salad was my personal favorite but she had some stiff competition. From the first to the last, it was a practically perfect and inspiring progression of sights, sounds, smells, and flavors.
  • First Course: German onion soup served with a handmade garlic crouton blanketed in swiss cheese and slowly baked in the oven to mouthwatering toasty melty indulgence. The S.O.S./Save Our Shores Pilsner from Abita Brewing provided an equally compelling fusion of herbs, spice, and soft breads.
  • Third Course: tender juicy spicy bratwurst was braised in beautiful butter, onions, and Yuengling than grilled before adorning a toasted Hoagie grinning under the influence of a smoky beer-infused cheddar spread. You could dip your Hoagie bratwurst in a side shmear of spicy brown mustard or indulge it naked. Overall, the bratwurst could have used less Hoagie or an additional slice lengthwise, thus spreading the cheer of tender juicy spicy bratwurst flavors further. The wonderfully malty Dogtoberfest Marzen from Flying Dog Brewing gleamed brilliant embers while her sweetly spicy caramelized apply delights brought unity to all.
  • Fourth Course: veal shanks were braised ALL. DAY. LONG. with rosemary au jus in anticipation of melting in your mouth. Fork, spoon, and spork need not apply; all it took was a look for vealphoria to woo. Served amidst a warm German potato salad, the sour vinegary tang was a worthy match for the funktastic dark Saison from Cigar City Brewing. Aptly named Sea Bass though none were harmed in the brewing of said beer, it was the most palate-challenging beer of the dinner. Earthen, musty, leathery, tannic, tartly sweet plums and black grapes with stems and red wine vinegar, comparisons to Bordeaux could be made in vain for the Sea Bass would steal the show and steal the show it did.
  • Fifth Course: while the last course will always be last, it was in no way least. Handmade pretzels with subtle briny essence were baked than dipped in melted Burgundy Dark Chocolate from Kilwins and topped with a spicy cayenne pepper infused dark chocolate drizzle. Powdered sugar snowed while wild berry compote parried heat with sweet. Her beerly companion was the phenomenal Third Coast Ale from Bells Brewing. An Old Ale of stylish history, dry spice, burnt sugars, plum and black cherry sweetness ended in old wooden casks steeped in spirited warmth for an evening of slow savorance inside and out.

~intermission~

Sharing in our Oktoberfest Dinner was my table of awesomeness as Tara appropriately named it. With friendly faces tried and new, the air buzzed amidst the ebb and flow of indulgent pleasures. I was extra proud to finally welcome Mom and Dad to their first beer dinner at Town Crier Pub, an A+ experience all around according to the always unabashedly honest Dadster. Extra gracious props to Dave and staff for indulging and duly spoiling Mom. You went over and beyond the call of dutiful service. From our hearts to yours, thank you very much.

And so another fantastic dinner was born and had. I haven’t missed one yet and though Town Crier Pub is taking a beer dinner break in anticipation of a new menu roll-out, I’ll be the first on the RSVP list when that horizon crests. Until then, I shall reminisce in cheer and with a beer. Cheers!



(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

A Day with The Bruery @ Vine & Barley *TODAY*

**The Bruery beers are slowly and steadily gaining traction here in the Treasure Coast as the fabulously innovative brewery they are, brewing tastefully inspired beers. Their beers are great food partners and of Belgian inspiration. SEE YOU THERE!!!**

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Friday, October 29, 2010

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Vine & Barley *update*

FOR BEER & WINE LOVERS: 
This coming Saturday & Sunday Oct 30 & 31, enjoy 15% off your bar tab when you wear a Halloween costume to Vine & Barley.

FOR BEER LOVERS: 

This coming Monday Nov 1st, Vine & Barley will be tapping SIX SPECIAL KEGS from 'The Bruery'. Join us for the tapping of these special & limited kegs that will be poured from this award winning small craft brewery starting at 2pm. These kegs WON'T LAST!
  • Orchard White: Unfiltered Belgian-style Witbier.
  • Rugbrod: A Robust Rye Brown Ale.
  • Mischief: A hoppy Belgian-style Golden Ale.
  • Autumn Maple: A different take on a Pumpkin Ale.
  • Trade Winds: A Belgian-style Golden Ale with a Southeast Asian twist.
  • Coton: A blend of new and oak barrel-aged ales.

FOR WINE LOVERS: 
Wine Tasting, Tuesday, Nov. 9, 6-8pm presented by Kara from Premier
Beverage, cost is $5.00 and receive 15% off any wine bottle purchase.


FOR FOOD & BEER LOVERS: 
Monday, Nov 15th. The one-time release of four very special limited kegs from Sierra Nevada will be paired with food samplings from West End Grill. You will not find these beers anywhere on tap again. More details to follow.



'A Very Unique Wine & Craft Beer Lounge'
1680 SW St Lucie West Blvd
Port St Lucie, FL 34986
www.VineAndBarley.com
772-446-7550

Thursday, October 28, 2010

BEERflections ~ Hurricanes VB Welcomes Ballast Point Brewing to Florida

Knowing a new craft brewery is coming to my home state and my hometown is always cause for celebration. Beer diversity is beautiful; whether it tickles your specific fancy or not is just a matter of individual semantics. Regarding Ballast Point Brewing out of San Diego, California, there truly is no ground for semantics. Good beer is good and great beer is great. Ballast Point falls firmly within the latter camp. At the 2010 World Beer Cup, they walked away with three gold medals, tying Baird Brewing of Numazu, Shizuoka, Japan for most gold medals awarded to a single brewery. Ballast Point was also awarded the esteemed honor of Small Brewery of the Year. Considering the number of wonderful small breweries throughout the USofA and considering this is the World Beer Cup, the world, it is an award of grandeur and promise.

One aspect of Ballast Point which has not landed on the shores of Florida yet and may never is their micro-distilled spirits. Very limited releases of very small batches also critically acclaimed, I look forward to eventually somehow someway being able to dapple in their spirited side of flavor exploration and ingenuity. But in the meantime, there be tasty beers to explore and explore I did in sight, sound, and body.

From coast to coast, in eleven exclusively JJ Taylor accounts across Florida on Wednesday, October 13th, 2010 five tastetacular Ballast Point beers were released unto thirsty burgundians throughout. A rollout more than an event for this round, it was the perfect modus operandi to introduce a new brewery and their beers to the sunshine state without over saturating the market and consequently dooming the merry venture to rapid oblivion. Nothing can be more personally frustrating and discouraging than watching a good brewery with good beer fall between the cracks, nay pushed, due to lack of overall commitment, hindsight, and foresight. Based equally on years of personal experience, I can say without a doubt Ballast Point is in excellent hands with JJ Taylor and consequently, Hurricane Grille & Wings of Vero Beach, Florida. One of only two accounts (for now) on the Treasure Coast, the other is the esteemed Vine & Barley of St. Lucie West. Two radically different venues, both have at their heart the most important life-stream of good beer, good friends, and good times.

Being an all business day kickoff, I ran through my usual morning routine of reading, writing, blogging, and working out before prepping to embrace the day’s festivities. Looking forward to Tim Hebeler’s arrival later that afternoon along with some of my super awesome posse of peeps and a few resident members of the JJ Taylor family, yours beerly rolled in around 5pmish. Camera in hand, my first mission was documenting the gorgeous tap handles that were smartly lined up in a neat little row. Together and individually, I memorialized their maritime styled taps of beerly glory for all to appreciate.

They were:
  • Yellowtail Pale Ale – soft, gentle, and breadly sweet, she is a fine tribute to the Kolsch style who will reward the patient drinker with layer upon layer of subtle flavors.
  • Wahoo Wheat – an American inspired wheat, her supple flavors of tropical fruits freshly picked, sliced, and ready for eating is equally matched by a softly sweet bready mouthfeel.
  • Big Eye IPA – an IPA which exemplifies balance between malty caramelized sweetness, crispy golden brown melba, and a never-ending brisk grassy hoppiness.
  • Calico Amber Ale – a real crowd pleaser, she demands your attention with clean pervasive bitterness which never overwhelms and is parried by a crisp crunchy sweetness ending in an aptly thirst-inducing dryness.
  • Sculpin IPA – for the hophead in all of us, she is equally clean and hoptastic with bright freshly sliced and squeezed white grapefruit, lemon, and straight from the west coast, pine needles aplenty.

Without a single doubt, all beers were good but I really dug the Sculpin that day having been hop-deprived for a bad long while. Hit the spot she did and then some.

All new beers to my palate, tasting notes were nonetheless put on the wayside for the simple pleasure of savoring new beers amidst friends and family (you rock, Dad!) without having to divert attentions to engage pen and paper. Tasting notes are still to come, but in regards to Ballast Point Brewing in Florida, time is on my side. Also hopefully evident by now is the pervasive maritime fisherman’s theme. From the beers to the brewery to the brewery staffed fishing team, the deep blue is near and dear to their hearts, a sentiment any Floridian worth their salt will echo unconditionally. Me? Oh yes! I grew up on the Indian River and spent many hours of many days of many years fishing within the embrace of Mother Ocean.

And so, in no hurry to be anywhere else, I slowly surely supped my way through their five tastetacular beers, a bounty worthy of the Treasure Coast. All it takes to enjoy these unburied gems is a glass and a thirst, something this beer geek is never without. The future is bright, indeed.



(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

WOB Viera News

WOBoween!
This Saturday, October 30th, get your ghoul on and party at WOB for Halloween. Come dressed in your favorite costume and you will have a chance to win $150 in beer money! Party starts at 7 pm with live music, beer specials and a pumpkin carved contest (remember your pumpkin must be carved before the party). First place will receive a $25 gift card. Click here for more information.

Victory Rollout Party! 
The weekend of November 5th, will be the official rollout party for Victory Brewery. They have finally made it to Brevard county. We will be featuring an extensive draft line up of Victory beers along with bottles. So let's welcome Victory Brewery to Brevard county!

St. Bernardus Night! 
On Sunday Novermber 7th, from 7pm to 9 pm, we will be having a meet and greet with a representative from St. Bernardus, Belgium. Marco Pasarello will be talking about the history of St. Bernardus and he will also be bringing photos to share. During this special visit, we will have on draft St. Bernardus ABT 12, Prior 8, Pater 6, Witbier and St. Bernardus Christmas. Don't miss this special visit.

Beer and Food Pairing! 
Tuesday, November 9th, your favorite chefs will be back for another amazing food pairing. This time we will be featuring Harpoon Brewery from Vermont. We will be serving a four course meal paired with the following Harpoon UFO, IPA, Wet Hop and Winter Warmer. We will also be joined by representatives from Harpoon Brewery. Due to the success of the last food pairing, a limited amount of tickets will be made available before the event. Keep reading your newsletters for information soon!

Great American Golf Tournament! 
It's only 2 weeks away till November 13th! Don't wait too long before all the spots are taken to play in the best golf tournament around Brevard County. Come join us to help benefit Nana's House children's charity. You get to play 18 holes at the beautiful Duran Golf Club but you also will be able to enjoy great American craft beer at 9 different holes. We will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for you to enjoy. Prizes will be awarded at the dinner. Click here for more information about how to register, sponsorship and Nana's House.

Most Arrogant Bar! 
It's time once again for the beer community to unite! This year we will be competing with the entire United States for the Most Arrogant Bar title for 2011. To accomplish this, those who are worthy must do your part by consuming this arrogant goodness. We will be featuring the entire Stone Bastard family including Arrogant Bastard, Oaked Arrogant Bastard, Double Bastard and will be introducing a new edition to the bastard family. (You will have to wait and see what it is.) We will have ridiculous draft and bottle specials to help the cause. Consumption must take place from November 13 to November 19. Come out during that time and help make your bar take a place in history.

New Bottles

  • B Nectar Pineapple Coconut, 14% (Michigan)
  • B Nectar Vanilla Cinnnamon, 14% (Michigan)
  • Southern Tier Iniquity, 8.9 (New York)
  • Woodchuck Dark & Dry, 5% (Vermont)

New Drafts

  • Avery IPA, 5.9% (Colorado)
  • Cigar City Bolita Double Nut Brown, 9% (Florida)
  • Cigar City Jose Marti, 8% (Florida)
  • Czechvar, 5% (Czech Republic)
  • Fort Collins Colorado Common Ground, 5.6% (Colorado)
  • Great Divide Hibernation, 8.1% (Colorado)
  • Left Hand Warrior IPA, 6.6% (Colorado)
  • Lost Coast Winterbraun, 6.5% (California)

Live Music This Week

  • Thursday - Christian Wilson Duo
  • Friday - Sunsetters
  • Saturday - Matt Adkins & Jay DiBella

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

New Beer Reviews

The latest and greatest:

(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)

Cigar City Brew News


Hey Guys,

We have a little something special planned for next Friday, November 5th. We are very happy to welcome David Gremmel, and his wonderful cheeses to the brewery for a very special tasting from 5-7pm. Whole Foods will be on hand and have the featured cheeses available for purchase and the CCB beers featured will be available in the tasting room.


Be sure to sign up at Whole Foods if you can attend!

This event is limited to 40 people.




This week in the tasting room we put Vanilla Maduro on tap in place of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie. We will have more Oatmeal Raisin Cookie in a week or two for pints and growlers and soon you will be able to find it at your favorite beer retailer to enjoy at home! It's scheduled to be bottled in the few months, along with Cubano Espresso, Jose' Marti and White Oak Jai-Alai IPA 12 oz. all in 4 packs!

There are a few new treatments in the tasting room and more that will be turning up in the coming weeks, right now we have the Coco Loco and Seabass Passion on tap. Coco Loco is a cocoa and coconut infused Bolita Double Brown Ale. The Seabass Passion infuses a blend of fruits with an ale containing multiple layers of complexity that tingles the senses. Jose' Marti is back, so is Humidor IPA both of which we are pouring growlers of again so bring them by and let us fill them up for you!


Coming Soon! The first creations of Ben Romano, our Pilot Brewer who has been working on a few new beers for us to enjoy. Ben has been brewing small batches on our 45 gallon pilot system and we can't wait to have them on tap!


Labels were approved for our Collaboration beer with the guys from Grassroots (Denmark) and Hill Farmstead (VT)




Described as a “high gravity black ale brewed with Ty Ty honey, copious amounts of hops and aged on toasted Spanish Cedar.” 11.2% ABV to be packaged in mixed 12/12oz. of each in a case of 24. It should be out sometime this fall.




Hopefully we will be able to get some tasting notes soon!


Cheers!
Travis

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

2nd Annual Halloween Party @ Broken Barrel Tavern

Tired of the same thing every year for HALLOWEEN?

The Broken Barrel Tavern is having it's 2nd Annual Halloween party with drink and shot specials and Live Entertainment. Why fight the ridiculous crowds again to see the same old thing every year and drink the same warm yellow fizz?!?

TBBT Halloween Party this Saturday, Oct 30th from 9p-2a!


Beers,
Kevin

BEERflections ~ 2nd Annual Oktoberfest @ Broken Barrel Tavern

When one thinks of Germany and Oktoberfest, images of lederhosen, dirndl, Brezn, Würstl, Blaukraut, Hendl, Reiberdatschi, and of course beer come to mind. Lots of beer in 3L dimpled glass steins raised in toast, thumped on large long wooden tables to cheers, boisterous song, and drunk in copious proportions. Take said imagery, add a bit of Florida sunshine and one arrives not at the Theresienwiese but at the Broken Barrel Tavern. Between October 8th and 9th, there was much merry made, Oktoberfest beers quaffed and classic German dish snarfed.

Never one to miss out on a beer event, especially one being hosted by Broken Barrel Tavern, with Marc Boland’s generous assistance, we assembled a large long wooden table (relatively speaking) of beer minded peeps whose passion for good food and good times is equally revered. I arrived early (surprise surprise) to secure our table of Oktoberfest awesomeness which, thanks to a quick email that morning, was all ready and waiting for us. Cruising US1 north with the windows down, the sun shining, and just a wee nip of chill in the air put me in the proper frame of mind for hours of tasty fun. To top it all off was a cask of Schneider-Sohn Organic Edel-weisse which I shall delve into a bit later.

Lo and behold, as I wandered in, my waiter decked out in lederhosen led me to my table in waiting. As we made our way, someone called out my name. Looking for its source, I was delight to see Darrell and Suz. Seated amidst friends and I do believe a relative or two, they had enjoyed an equally picturesque cruise north to partake of and share the goodness that is Broken Barrel. Whereas I arrived on four wheels, they arrived on two wheels. Previously unaware of the day’s festivities, they nonetheless had a grand time, responsibly of course, before heading out to further explore such a beautiful day. Stopping by to say hello before goodbye, Darrell left me with a generous 20spot to enjoy a beer or two on him. No worries there my dear, for a beer or two I definitely enjoyed. It’s too bad you couldn’t stay longer, but there will be other festivities of a beery nature to enjoy together.

Just as my waiter was decked out in lederhosen, so too were all the gents sporting some variation on the traditional German garb while the ladies enjoyed creative interpretations on the traditional dirndl. Some were cute, some were flirtations, but all were in good fun. Considering the original Oktoberfest as with all Oktoberfests after and beyond are a time of celebration, community, and fun, there was plenty to be had at the Barrel that Saturday.

Why Saturday and not Friday?

Because on Saturday and not on Friday the glorious barrel of Edel-weisse was to be tapped at 3pm sharp. There was no way I or my fellow peeps were going to miss out. No way, no sirree. As 3pm rounded the bend, Kevin announced the imminent tapping and like star-struck groupies our table scrambled outside to witness, document, and taste the very much alive Organic Edel-weisse from the vaunted Schneider-Sohn Brewery. Under clear blue skies and random puffs of white, a finer day could nowhere be found. As pitchers of Edel-weisse filled pint after pint, we cupped our glasses in reverence as we retreated once more to our table. Inside, exclamations of yummy delight ensued in chorus along with a few irresistible trips to the cask in hope of another pint before her 30L were tapped out. Being able to secure a glass before there was none to secure for my pal Jim, upon arrival, I could tell by his giddy grin that it was indeed well received.

Not to be outclassed, there was also great food to be had and lots of it. All day and evening long, fest-goers had the choice of an Oktoberfest menu created just for that day along with the generous burgundian delights of the Barrel’s full menu. As others soon discovered what I already knew, hour after hour, a hungry chorus of scintillating food porn indulgence rumbled about our table in shameless pleasure. Within all beer geeks resides the foodie, a truth I have found evident time and time again. From smoked wings to pulled smoked chicken sliders and beyond, morsel after glorious morsel passed through lips quivering in burgundian bliss.

As afternoon gave way to evening, farewells were drawn out as long as possible as the upcoming crush of Gator alumni loomed in anticipation of that evening’s game. Even so, it’s not over till it’s over, or at least until raffles are drawn and yours beerly actually won something. That’s right, I actually won something! A Samuel Adams t-shirt (t-shirt whore that I am) and thanks to Marc’s lucky spoils, a 16oz perfect pint glass. Though we had accumulated a sizeable stash of raffle tickets thanks to many a beer quaffed, no more winners were drawn while I remained. The last of our troupe, Eric, Melissa, and I lingered but as the warmth and community of a large group sharing good times eventually passed so too did our desire to linger. The time had come to emerge into the cool night air. Full in more than just my tummy, with a rejuvenated heart and soul, I once more took to cruising US1, this time south, to home and Mr. D.

As always, my time at Broken Barrel Tavern was priceless. Kevin and his staff are always fabulous and the food once more sent these senses into flavor euphoria. Thanks to Duncan for the three bottles of homebrew; they were all three savored in respectful thirst. Marc, you rock. And to all my peeps who answered the call of good beer, good food, and good times…I couldn’t and wouldn’t ask for better friends for surely none exist. Until next time, prost!



(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)