Brewers Association Reveals the 50 Fastest Growing U.S. Craft Breweries of 2018

The Brewers Association released its second annual list of the 50 fastest growing small and independent craft brewing companies of 2018. "These small and independent craft breweries from 27 states registered a median growth of 163 percent in 2018 and included 13 brewpubs, 35 microbreweries, and two regional craft breweries".

"Even as market competition continues to increase, these small and independent breweries and brewpubs demonstrate there are still growth opportunities across a diverse set of regions and business models," said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. And the list is rather representative of all geographic regions.

1. Lake Time Brewery, Clear Lake Iowa
2. Big Oyster Brewery, Lewes Delaware
3. Oak Road Brewery, Summerville South Carolina
4. The Dreamchaser’s Brewery, Waxhaw North Carolina
5. Shattered Oak Brewing, Oregon City Oregon

Methodology: The list presented includes only small and independent breweries. Growth is measured based on production at their own facilities. Breweries must have opened by December 31, 2016, or earlier to be considered. It only includes breweries that reported 2018 production to the Brewers Association’s annual Beer Industry Production Survey; breweries with staff estimates or data from state excise tax reports were not considered. Breweries also needed a validated production figure for 2017, either via the production survey, or state excise tax data.

A comprehensive State of the Industry report will be delivered during the 2019 Craft Brewers Conference® & BrewExpo America®, held from April 8-11 in Denver, Colorado. The association’s full 2018 industry analysis, which shows regional trends and sales by individual breweries, will be published in the May/June issue of The New Brewer, available in May 2019.

1 An American craft brewer is a small and independent brewer. Small: Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less (approximately 3 percent of U.S. annual sales). Beer production is attributed to the rules of alternating proprietorships. Independent: Less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by an alcoholic beverage industry member that is not itself a craft brewer. Brewer: Has a TTB Brewer’s Notice and makes beer.

Contact: Abby Cohen (on behalf of the Brewers Association) abby@rosengrouppr.com, 646-695-7044

Kin & Cascadia Showcase the Columbia and Willamette Valleys

Winesellers Ltd., the family-owned global importer, recently expanded their portfolio into the Pacific Northwest by creating the Kin & Cascadia brand. The initial two offerings are a Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington's Columbia Valley and a Pinot Noir from Oregon's Willamette Valley -- both arguably the premier wine regions in their respective states. Each is priced close to $15 providing excellent value.  Finally, don't you love the contrasting bottle styles reflecting Bordeaux and Burgundy? Cheers.







2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, Washington State ($15)
The grapes are sourced from vineyard sites in the Wahluke Slope AVA located near the edge of Red Mountain. The region is one of the driest, warmest climates in the state, perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyards are composed of sandy and alluvial soils with vine shoots on original roots as phylloxera has never been in Washington State.  For the price, this is a very complex effort, depth, spices, and chewy tannins.

2017 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon ($15)
The Willamette Valley runs approximately from Portland in the north to Eugene in the South and these grapes were sourced from different locations along the valley. Some were grown on the rich alluvial soils on the valley floor whereas others on the volcanic-sedimentary soils of the hillsides.  The result is a smooth and friendly wine with candied cherries transitioning to an approachable finish with easy tannins.

2019 SAVOR: An American Craft Beer & Food Experience

This year, the Brewers Association is hosting their annual SAVOR: An American Craft Beer & Food Experience Friday, May 17th in Washington D.C. -- as usual at the National Building Museum. This week the Beer & Food Menu pairings were released and they look quite delicious - particularly anything with Choptank oysters, Gruyere, or Rabbit Tamale. Looking forward to another great event tasting with old and new friends. from across the United States Cheers.




2ND SHIFT BREWING CO. St. Louis, MO
GRAPEVINES (BRETT BEER: MIXED-CULTURE)
Ricotta Gnocchi | English Peas| Chanterelles
MLÁDEK(STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Rice Pudding | Horchata | Churro

4 NOSES BREWING COMPANY Broomfield, CO
SOMETHING FRENCH (SOUR ALE: FRUITED)
Passionfruit Panna Cotta | Meringue
ZWICKY P (ZWICKEL PILSNER)
Corn Madeleine | Chicken Liver Mousse

ALLAGASH BREWING COMPANY Portland, ME
BARREL & BEAN (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Coffee & Chocolate Whoopie Pie
PICK YOUR OWN (FRUIT BEER: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Corn Madeleine | Chicken Liver Mousse

ATLAS BREW WORKS Washington, D.C.
BLOOD ORANGE GOSE (GOSE: CONTEMPORARY)
Choptank Oysters
NINJA SAUCE (PALE ALE: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Choptank Oysters

BEAR REPUBLIC BREWING CO. Cloverdale, CA
OLD BABA YAGA (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Coffee Crème Brûlée
SONOMA TART (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Chocolate Coconut Macaroon

BELL'S BREWERY Galesburg, MI
LARRY'S LATEST FLAMINGO FRUIT FIGHT (FRUIT BEER: WHEAT)
Bahn Mi Meatball | Toast | Herb Salad
THIRD COAST OLD ALE (BARLEY WINE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Pork Rib | Honey & Pecan Glaze

BOSTON BEER COMPANY Boston, MA
BLACK HARBOR STOUT (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Bread Pudding | Smoked Oyster
MANGO GUAVA IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Chicken Laab | Thai Herbs

BOULEVARD BREWING COMPANY Kansas City, MO
RYE ON RYE 6 (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Country Style Terrine | Plum Mustard
SAISON BRETT (SAISON: SPECIALTY)
Boudin Blanc | Crispy Potato | Mustard

BREWDOG BREWING COMPANY Canal Winchester, OH
ELVIS JUICE (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Peanut Butter Toast | Banana Brulee
JET BLACK HEART (STOUT: OATMEAL)
Hand Pie | Braised Beef Bourguignon

THE BREWER'S TABLE Austin, TX
MADE IN THE NIGHTSHADE (FIELD BEER)
Redfish | Creole Fried Green Tomato | Rouille
VOR ORT (LAGER: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Falafel | Chive Yogurt | Harissa

BREWERY OMMEGANG Cooperstown, NY
BRUT IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Lobster Roll
PALE SOUR (SOUR ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Marinated Mussels | Saffron Escabeche

CALDERA BREWING COMPANY Ashland, OR
MOSAIC IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Redfish | Creole Fried Green Tomato | Rouille
MOTHER PUCKER RASPBERRY SOUR (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Nathan Miller Chocolate

CAPE ANN BREWING COMPANY Gloucester, MA
COME HELLES OR HIGH WATER (HELLES: MUNICH-STYLE)
Malted Chicharron | Fennel Pollen | Whipped Lardo
SPRUCE TIP BIERE DE GARDE (BIERE DE GARDE: FRENCH-STYLE)
Bresaola Cone | Soft Herbs | Fresh Cherries

CAPE MAY BREWING CO. Cape May, NJ
ALWAYS READY (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Spicy Green Papaya Salad
LADY IN ROOM #10 (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Curry Squash Samosa

CHELUNA BREWING COMPANY Denver, CO
CHILANGO (CHILI BEER)
Masa Dumplings | Braised Chicken | Avocado
LOW RIDER LAGER AÑEJO (AGED BEER)
Lox | Buckwheat Crepe | Salmon Roe

CHURCH BREW WORKS Pittsburgh, PA
PIOUS MONK DUNKEL (DUNKEL: MUNICH-STYLE)
Beef Tataki | Furikake | Seaweed Salad
THUNDERHOP IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Chicken Satay | Pineapple | Peanuts

CIGAR CITY BREWING Tampa, FL
ACROSS THE ALLEY (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG STOUT)
Chocolate Coconut Macaroon
MARGARITA GOSE (GOSE: LEIPZIG-STYLE)
Masa Dumplings | Braised Chicken | Avocado

COUNTRY BOY BREWING Georgetown, KY
LIVING PROOF: OUD BRUIN (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER)
Beef Tataki | Furikake | Seaweed Salad
PAPAW'S RED (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Gruyere Gougère | Caramelized Onion

CRANK ARM BREWING CO. Raleigh, NC
VALVE STEM (LAGER: VIENNA-STYLE)
Grilled Lamb | Peas | Mint | Feta | Pea Pesto
WHITEWALL WHEAT (AMERICAN-BELGO-STYLE ALE: PALE)
Cucumber Gazpacho | Cheese Crisp

CRAZY MOUNTAIN BREWERY Denver, CO
HORSESHOES & HAND GRENADES (BITTER: AMERICAN-STYLE EXTRA SPECIAL)
Cabbage Roll | Pheasant | Farro & Currants
LAWYERS, GUNS & MONEY (BARLEY WINE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Hamachi Crudo | Tomatillo | Cilantro

DAREDEVIL BREWING CO. Speedway, IN
FIRST NOEL OAK SMOKED BOCK (RAUCHBIER: BAMBERG-STYLE BOCK)
Pork Belly | Red Eye Glaze | Date Bread
RIP CORD DIPA (INDIA PALE ALE: IMPERIAL)
Falafel | Chive Yogurt | Harissa

DC BRAU Washington, D.C.
SMELLS LIKE FREEDOM (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Malted Chicharron | Fennel Pollen | Whipped Lardo
WAKE UP IN THE FUTURE (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Pork Belly | Red Eye Glaze | Date Bread

DESCHUTES BREWERY Bend, OR
BLACK MIRROR (BARLEY WINE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Blood Sausage | Eggplant | Golden Raisin
TEMPRANILLO FLANDERS (FLANDERS RED)
Bresaola Cone | Soft Herbs | Fresh Cherries

DOGFISH HEAD CRAFT BREWERY Milton, DE
AMERICAN BEAUTY (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Rice Pudding | Horchata | Churro
SUPEREIGHT (GOSE: CONTEMPORARY)
Potsticker | Green Onion | Ginger | Lemongrass

DOUBLE NICKEL BREWING COMPANY Pennsauken, NJ
SUPER MEGA DANK 420 KUSH DADDY SUPREME (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Corn Hushpuppy | Pink Peppercorn Aioli
VIENNA LAGER (LAGER: VIENNA-STYLE)
Goat Cheese | Pistachio | Strawberry | White Balsamic

ESCAPE BREWING COMPANY Trinity, FL
FIVE FLAGS (PILSENER: GERMAN-STYLE)
Grilled Lamb | Peas | Mint | Feta | Pea Pesto
GOOFY FOOTED WHEAT ALE (WHEAT BEER WITHOUT YEAST: LIGHT AMERICAN)
Lox | Buckwheat Crepe | Salmon Roe

FERNSON BREWING COMPANY Sioux Falls, SD
CHAMPILS (PILSENER: CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN-STYLE)
Lox | Buckwheat Crepe | Salmon Roe
GALLIVANT (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Hot Chicken | Pickled Cabbage

FIRESTONE WALKER BREWING COMPANY Paso Robles, CA
UNDERCURRANTS (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Curry Squash Samosa
XXII ANNIVERSARY ALE (BARLEY WINE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Corn Madeleine | Chicken Liver Mousse

FIVE BOROUGHS BREWING CO. Brooklyn, NY
PILSNER (PILSENER: BOHEMIAN-STYLE)
Hamachi Crudo | Tomatillo | Cilantro
TINY JUICY IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: SESSION)
Cheese Crêpe | Cranberry Almond Granola

FLORIDA AVENUE BREWING CO. Tampa, FL
BOAT BEER SEA SESSION ALE (EXPERIMENTAL BEER)
Seaweed & Crab Salad | Kombo | Cucumber
PASSION OF THE HEIGHTS (HERB AND SPICE BEER)
Goat Cheese | Pistachio | Strawberry | White Balsamic

FOOTHILLS BREWING Winston-Salem, NC
JADE IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Tuna Taco | Fried Red Onion | Garlic | Sesame
SEXUAL CHOCOLATE RUSSIAN IMPERIAL STOUT (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Rabbit Tamale | Black Mole

FOUR FATHERS BREWING Valparaiso, IN
BARREL-AGED WHEELHOUSE 2018 (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Red Hot Beef Sausage | Creamed Corn
JUDO NOT SUMO (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Chicken Laab | Thai Herbs

FREMONT BREWING Seattle, WA
B-BOMB COCONUT EDITION (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
`Chocolate Coconut Macaroon
VIRTUE (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER)
Blue Cheese Cake | Crispy Shallot | Rye

GEARHOUSE BREWING COMPANY Chambersburg, PA
NATHAN MILLER CHOCOLATE PORTER (CHOCOLATE BEER)
Nathan Miller Chocolate
SPIRAL HAM PROJECT VOL. 1: THE BELGIAN QUAD (QUADRUPEL: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Country Style Terrine | Plum Mustard

GNARLY BARLEY BREWINGHammond, LA
DDH JUCIFER IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Hamachi Crudo | Tomatillo | Cilantro
KOROVA MILK PORTER (PORTER: ROBUST)
Endive Panzanella | Sausage Vinaigrette | Rye Crouton

GOODLIFE BREWING CO. Bend, OR
DESCENDER IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Corn Madeleine | Chicken Liver Mousse
SWEET AS PACIFIC ALE (WHEAT BEER WITHOUT YEAST: LIGHT AMERICAN)
Cacio e Pepe Croquette

GREAT LAKES BREWING CO. Cleveland, OH
GREAT LAKES IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Goat Confit | Coriander & Burnt Orange BBQ
HOLY MOSES RASPBERRY (WITBIER: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Bresaola Cone | Soft Herbs | Fresh Cherries

GREAT RHYTHM BREWING COMPANY Portsmouth, NH
PERPETUAL GRÜVEN (KOELSCH: GERMAN-STYLE)
Redfish | Creole Fried Green Tomato | Rouille
TROPICAL HAZE (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Potsticker | Green Onion | Ginger | Lemongrass

HARDYWOOD PARK CRAFT BREWERY
Richmond, VA
BUT DOES IT MAKE SENSE
(INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY IMPERIAL OR DOUBLE)
Hot Chicken | Pickled Cabbage
FOOLERY
(STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Duck Prosciutto | Potato | Cherry

HOPEWELL BREWING COMPANY Chicago, IL
PER DIEM (PILSENER: CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN-STYLE)
Goat Confit | Coriander & Burnt Orange BBQ
STONETHROW (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Blue Cheese Cake | Crispy Shallot | Rye

HOPS & GRAIN BREWING Austin, TX
HAZE COUNTY (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY IMPERIAL OR DOUBLE)
Red Apron Charcuterie
VOLUMES OF FUNK: BERRIES (SOUR ALE: OTHER BELGIAN-STYLE)
Red Apron Charcuterie

IVANHOE PARK BREWING CO. Orlando, FL
SUCK IT, TREBEK (SOUR ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Choptank Oysters
TUPAC SHAPORTER (PORTER: BALTIC-STYLE)
Choptank Oysters

LA CUMBRE BREWING CO. Albuquerque, NM
SIBERIAN SILK (PORTER: BALTIC-STYLE)
Rabbit Tamale | Black Mole
SUN FADE (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Goat Cheese | Pistachio | Strawberry | White Balsamic

LAND-GRANT BREWING COMPANY Columbus, OH
HELIOS (PILSENER: GERMAN-STYLE)
Chicken Laab | Thai Herbs
THIRTEEN.ONE (GOSE: CONTEMPORARY)
Fried Rice Style Grains | Carrot | Cilantro | Black Garlic

LEGAL DRAFT BEER COMPANY Arlington, TX
FREE & CLEAR (GLUTEN-FREE BEER)
Masa Dumplings | Braised Chicken | Avocado
GINNED UP CHARGES (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Tuna Taco | Fried Red Onion | Garlic | Sesame

LIC BEER PROJECT Long Island City, NY
CODED TILES (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Bahn Mi Meatball | Toast | Herb Salad
HIGHER BURNIN'(INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Shrimp & Grits

LICKINGHOLE CREEK CRAFT BREWERY Goochland, VA
NUGGET ON RYE (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Hand Pie | Braised Beef Bourguignon
REDNECK HIGH SOCIETY (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Malted Chicharron | Fennel Pollen | Whipped Lardo

LISTERMANN BREWING CO. Cincinnati, OH
NUTCASE RASPBERRY JAM (PORTER: PEANUT BUTTER W/ FRUIT)
Cheese Crêpe | Cranberry Almond Granola
TEAM FIONA (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Hot Chicken | Pickled Cabbage

LORD HOBO BREWING COMPANY Woburn, MA
GODMOTHER (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Potsticker | Green Onion | Ginger | Lemongrass
MUSEUM (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY IMPERIAL OR DOUBLE)
Tuna Taco | Fried Red Onion | Garlic | Sesame

THE LOST ABBEY San Marcos, CA
CITRUS SIN (WILD BEER)
Bresaola Cone | Soft Herbs | Fresh Cherries
ZINNERS AND SAINTS (SOUR ALE: OTHER BELGIAN-STYLE)
Cheese Crêpe | Cranberry Almond Granola

MADTREE BREWING COMPANY Cincinnati, OH
HAPPY AMBER (AMBER/RED ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Red Hot Beef Sausage | Creamed Corn
JOON (KOELSCH: GERMAN-STYLE)
Angel Food Cake | Macerated Berries | Lime Zest

MAINE BEER COMPANY Freeport, ME
WOODS & WATERS (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Marinated Mussels | Saffron Escabeche
ZOE (AMBER/RED ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Red Hot Beef Sausage | Creamed Corn

MONDAY NIGHT BREWING Atlanta, GA
PERVASIVE SPECIES (SOUR ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Grilled Lamb | Peas | Mint | Feta | Pea Shoots
SITUATIONAL ETHICS - MAPLE RUM BARREL AGED (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Coffee Crème Brûlée

MOTHER ROAD BREWING COMPANY Flagstaff, AZ
DAILY DRIVER LOW OCTANE IPA (SESSION BEER)
Ceviche | Calamari | Chili | Lime
LOST HIGHWAY DOUBLE BLACK IPA (BLACK ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Ricotta Gnocchi | English Peas| Chanterelles

NESHAMINY CREEK BREWING CO. Croydon, PA
MISADVENTURES & MISSTEPS (BELGIAN-STYLE GOLDEN STRONG)
Corn Hushpuppy | Pink Peppercorn Aioli
ZIEGEMEISTER MAIBOCK LAGER (BOCK: TRADITIONAL GERMAN-STYLE)
Red Hot Beef Sausage | Creamed Corn

NEW BELGIUM BREWING COMPANY Fort Collins, CO
MURAL (FRUIT BEER: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Corn Hushpuppy | Pink Peppercorn Aioli
VOODOO RANGER JUCIFER (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Curry Squash Samosa

NEW HOLLAND BREWING CO. Holland, MI
DRAGON'S MILK WHITE (EXPERIMENTAL BEER)
Coffee Crème Brûlée
KOMBUCHA IPA (EXPERIMENTAL BEER)
Beef Tataki | Furikake | Seaweed Salad

NEW REALM BREWING CO. Atlanta, GA
BELGA ROSE (FIELD BEER)
Angel Food Cake | Macerated Berries | Lime Zest
OAXACA CHOCA MEXICAN CHOCOLATE STOUT (CHOCOLATE BEER)
Rice Pudding | Horchata | Churro

NIGHT SHIFT BREWING Chelsea, MA
NITE LITE (LAGER: AMERICAN-STYLE LIGHT)
Shrimp & Grits
WHIRLPOOL (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Gruyere Gougère | Caramelized Onion

NINKASI BREWING Eugene, OR
BRIGHTBERRY (GOSE: CONTEMPORARY)
Tuna Taco | Fried Red Onion | Garlic | Sesame
HAZY DOMINATION (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Cacio e Pepe Croquette

O.H.S.O. EATERY + NANOBREWERY Phoenix, AZ
89ALE (CALIFORNIA COMMON BEER)
Country Style Terrine | Plum Mustard
PEANUT BRITTLE BLONDE (FIELD BEER)
Chicken Satay | Pineapple | Peanuts

ODELL BREWING COMPANY Fort Collins, CO
MOUNTAIN STANDARD (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Deviled Egg | Arugula | Potato Chip
SIPPIN' PRETTY (GOSE: CONTEMPORARY)
Ceviche | Calamari | Chili | Lime

OLD STOVE BREWING COMPANY Seattle, WA
HOP CONVOY - GUAVA EDITION (PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Ceviche | Calamari | Chili | Lime
SWORDS AND WHISKEY (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG STOUT)
Hand Pie | Braised Beef Bourguignon

PALE FIRE BREWING CO. Harrisonburg, VA
RED MOLLY IRISH RED ALE (RED ALE: IRISH-STYLE)
Gruyere Gougère | Caramelized Onion
SALAD DAYS AMERICAN SAISON (AMERICAN-BELGO-STYLE ALE: PALE)
Marinated Mussels | Saffron Escabeche

PERENNIAL ARTISAN ALES St. Louis, MO
ABRAXAS (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE IMPERIAL)
Curry Squash Samosa
LA COSECHA (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Potsticker | Green Onion | Ginger | Lemongrass

PORT CITY BREWING CO. Alexandria, VA
FRANCONIAN KELLERBIER (LAGER: UNFILTERED GERMAN-STYLE)
Corn Hushpuppy | Pink Peppercorn Aioli
RIVERSHED ALE (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Smoked Scallop Risotto Cake | Crab Salad

THE RARE BARREL Berkeley, CA
ACROSS THE SEA (SOUR ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Ceviche | Calamari | Chili | Lime
WISE GUISE (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Short Rib Grilled Cheese

RIGHT PROPER BREWING COMPANY Washington, D.C.
RAVAGED BY WOLVES (BRETT BEER: MIXED-CULTURE)
Fried Rice Style Grains | Carrot | Cilantro | Black Garlic
SCENICRUISER (BRETT BEER: MIXED-CULTURE)
Short Rib Grilled Cheese

RIVER DOG BREWING CO. Ridgeland, SC
LOWCOUNTRY AMBROSIA (HONEY BEER)
Pretzel Roll | Fennel & Apple Sausage
MIDNIGHT MARSH (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG BEER)
Chicken Satay | Pineapple | Peanuts

ROADHOUSE BREWING CO. Jackson, WY
RASPBERRY BERET (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Cheese Crêpe | Cranberry Almond Granola
THE WALRUS (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY IMPERIAL OR DOUBLE)
Bovine & Swine Sausage

ROGUE ALES & SPIRITS Newport, OR
BATSQUATCH HAZY IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Passionfruit Panna Cotta | Meringue
DEAD GUY ALE (BOCK: TRADITIONAL GERMAN-STYLE)
Bahn Mi Meatball | Toast | Herb Salad

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING Santa Cruz, CA
ADMIRAL SMASH (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Falafel | Chive Yogurt | Harissa
MADAME GREY (STOUT: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Short Rib Grilled Cheese

SARANAC BREWERY/FX MATT BREWING COMPANY Utica, NY
GREEN THUMB DOUBLE IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: IMPERIAL)
Goat Confit | Coriander & Burnt Orange BBQ
SARANAC IPA 100 (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Dirty Rice | Chicken Skin | Celery Salad

SAUCY BREW WORKS Cleveland, OH
B.F. HEFE (HEFEWEIZEN: SOUTH GERMAN-STYLE)
Banana Cream Pie
LOVE YOU, BYE (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Corn Madeleine | Chicken Liver Mousse

SECOND CHANCE BEER COMPANY San Diego, CA
MULLIGAN IRISH-STYLE RED ALE (RED ALE: IRISH-STYLE)
Gruyere Gougère | Caramelized Onion
THE BARREL EXPERIENCE JOURNEY 2 - COCONUT MACAROON (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED STRONG STOUT)
Chocolate Coconut Macaroon

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO. Chico, CA
HAZY LITTLE THING IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Crab Cake | Mango | Jalapeno
SIERRAVEZA (LAGER: LATIN AMERICAN)
Rabbit Tamale | Black Mole

SOCIETE BREWING COMPANY San Diego, CA
THE HEIRESS (PILSENER: BOHEMIAN-STYLE)
Pretzel Roll | Fennel & Apple Sausage
THE PUPIL (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Hot Raclette | Fingerling Potato

SPENCER BREWERY Spencer, MA
MONKS' RESERVE ALE (QUADRUPEL: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Country Style Terrine | Plum Mustard
PEACH SAISON (SAISON: SPECIALTY)
Chicken Laab | Thai Herbs

SQUATTERS CRAFT BEERS Salt Lake City, UT
SQUATTERS HELL'S KEEP (BELGIAN- AND FRENCH-STYLE ALE OTHER)
Marinated Mussels | Saffron Escabeche
SQUATTERS TROPICAL HOP RISING (INDIA PALE ALE: IMPERIAL)
Blue Cheese Cake | Crispy Shallot | Rye

SUGAR CREEK BREWING CO. Charlotte, NC
DARK REFLECTION (ABBEY ALE: OTHER BELGIAN-STYLE)
Coffee Crème Brûlée
SUGAR CREEK WHITE ALE (WITBIER: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Goat Confit | Coriander & Burnt Orange BBQ

SWITCHBACK BREWING COMPANY Burlington, VT
BISOU (SMOKED SAISON)
Deviled Egg | Arugula | Potato Chip
SMOKE 40 (SMOKED IPA)
Dry-Aged Rib Eye | Mushroom Crust | Shallot

TAMPA BAY BREWING COMPANY Tampa, FL
REEF DONKEY APA (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Deviled Egg | Arugula | Potato Chip
TWISTED STRAWBERRY FEST (FRUIT BEER: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Goat Cheese | Pistachio | Strawberry | White Balsamic

THREE WEAVERS BREWING CO. Inglewood, CA
KNOTTY (INDIA PALE ALE: IMPERIAL)
Red Apron Charcuterie
SEAFARER (KOELSCH: GERMAN-STYLE)
Red Apron Charcuterie

TWO ROADS BREWING COMPANY Stratford, CT
BRETT NOIR (BRETT BEER)
Passionfruit Panna Cotta | Meringue
LIL' JUICY (INDIA PALE ALE: JUICY OR HAZY)
Ceviche | Calamari | Chili | Lime

UNION CRAFT BREWING Baltimore, MD
DIVINE (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Shrimp & Grits
OLDER PRO BLACK CURRANT (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Blue Cheese Cake | Crispy Shallot | Rye

UPLAND BREWING COMPANY Bloomington, IN
CHAMPAGNE VELVET (LAGER: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Cucumber Gazpacho | Cheese Crisp
RASPBERRY (SOUR ALE: FRUITED AMERICAN-STYLE)
Country Style Terrine | Plum Mustard

VISTA BREWING Driftwood, TX
SEEKING SAKURA - WINE BARREL AGED CHERRY BRETT ALE (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Bresaola Cone | Soft Herbs | Fresh Cherries
VELO DE FLOR (LAMBIC: BELGIAN-STYLE)
Pork Belly | Red Eye Glaze | Date Bread

WALLACE BREWING COMPANY Wallace, ID
1910 BLACK LAGER (SCHWARZBIER: GERMAN-STYLE)
Rabbit Tamale | Black Mole
HUCKLEBERRY SHANDY (FRUIT BEER: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Ricotta Gnocchi | English Peas| Chanterelles

WALLENPAUPACK BREWING COMPANY Hawley, PA
HAWLEY HEFEWEIZEN (HEFEWEIZEN: SOUTH GERMAN-STYLE)
Pork Belly | Red Eye Glaze | Date Bread
PACK & BRASS (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Short Rib Grilled Cheese

WEST SIXTH BREWING Lexington, KY
PENNYRILE PALE ALE (PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Hot Chicken | Pickled Cabbage
SIXFOLD VI: WILD SOUR WITH BLACKBERRIES (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Angel Food Cake | Macerated Berries | Lime Zest

WINCHESTER BREW WORKS Winchester, VA
BIG RUN BRUT IPA (INDIA PALE ALE: AMERICAN-STYLE)
Cacio e Pepe Croquette
COFFEE CANOE LOVE (COFFEE BEER)
Pretzel Roll | Fennel & Apple Sausage

WOODEN ROBOT BREWERY Charlotte, NC
JARRAHDALE PUMPKIN SAISON (SAISON: SPECIALTY)
Curry Squash Samosa
THICKET AS THIEVES (WOOD- AND BARREL-AGED SOUR BEER: FRUITED)
Angel Food Cake | Macerated Berries | Lime Zest

#DrinkLocal at Whole Foods Market -- Well sort of

This weekend we visited our local Whole Foods Market Brew & Brau Pub intending to try the Big Poppa Biggie S'mores Imperial Stout produced by Charlottesville's Three Notch'd Brewing Company. Unfortunately, their tap system had failed, so it was time for wine. Examining the wine list, I noticed several possible local wines from New York, Oregon, and Mendocino in California. After returning home and further research yes, the grapes were indeed, mostly sourced from within local wine regions, but not necessarily estate driven.

Madame Liberté Brut ($16.99)
There isn't much information about the wine except that it is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir using American grapes. Thus not a local wine except it is apparently made by Gruet Winery even though the winery doesn't list it on their website. In any case, it is a delicious sparkling wine: creamy apples and depth.

Empire Estate 2017 Dry Riesling, Finger Lakes  ($19)
Empire Estate sources fruit from across the Finger Lakes - a cool climate region well known for their Riesling production as it is very similar to Alsace and Western Germany. (See Viticulture in the Cold Climate Finger Lakes) This wine is excellent, dry with racy minerals, some petrol. and uplifting acids.

Elouan 2017 Pinot Noir ($24)
Elouan is a brand that sources their grapes from three terrains in Oregon’s Western vineyards that are well suited for growing cool climate varietals. The first is the NW region - most likely including the Willamette Valley AVA -- with a temperate climate and cooling marine influences. The second is the West-Central Hills consisting of diverse microclimates through the many mountains and valleys. And finally, SW Oregon, where the elevated landscape and volcanic soils are derived from the convergence of three mountain ranges. The grapes were fermented separately, blended, then aged ten months in a mix of new and seasoned French oak. The result is fantastic: the cherry fruit turns to chalky dirt with a long lingering tail.

The Federalist Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel ($21.99)
Part of the Terlato Wines family, Federalist Vineyards produces several wines from throughout The Golden State. This Alexander Hamilton labeled wine is a blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Merlot sourced from Mendocino County and aged six months in American oak and finished six months in bourbon barrels. The later barrels impart noticeable vanilla, baking spices, and caramel with the dark black fruit rounded out by approachable tannins.

Budweiser Budvar Brewery vs Anheiser-Busch

Who's familiar with the famous Budweiser trademark dispute between Czech brewery Budweiser Budvar and Anheiser-Busch InBev? In 1907 Budvar and Anheiser-Busch agreed that Budvar could use the name Budweiser in Europe (the can) but that A-B could use the name in North America. Since then there have been over 100 trademark disputes or procedural issues. In countries where A-B InBev has Budweiser rights, Budvar uses the Czechvar brand name. I usually prefer German style pilsners, but this Bohemian style works nicely. And you can read more about the trademark dispute at Budvar and Time. Cheers.

Explore #WeAreMarylandWine During Maryland Wine Month

The Maryland Wineries Association has designated March as Maryland Wine Month and to follow the action they are promoting the #WeAreMarylandWine (in addition to #MDWine #MDWineTrails & #MDWineMonth) tag on all social media platforms. There are also numerous events and activities scheduled at various wineries and retailers across the state -- all listed on the MD Wine website. So we decided to dedicate more time this month to visit the Free State and visited two that are open seven days a week - navigating with theCompass Craft Beverage Finder.

We started at Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, located north of Frederick on the Route 15 Wine Road. Being a club member, our tastings were complimentary so we went through both their Signature ($10) and Sweet ($8) tastings. After previous visits, I have discussed their wonderful dry Estate Syrah, Estate Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay among others. So let me venture into the Sweet Wine tasting and the first impression is that out of the five, only the two meads comes across as sweet. For instance, the 2016 Rhapsody ($24) contains only .5% RS which is easily balanced by the Chardonnay's acidity. The sugar just rounds out the wine. The same is also true with the 2016 Bolero Blend ($22), a 50-50 blend of Syrah and Merlot. And finally, the 2017 Prelude Vidal Blanc ($20) has a Riesling character in that once again is balanced by the grape's acids. The two meads are definitely sweeter but the 2010 Honeymoon Mead ($25) is cut with orange juice providing more relief and the spices in the 2010 Amber Mead ($23) blend nicely into the honey flavor.

From Catoctin Breeze, we navigated the back roads, through a couple covered bridges to Linganore Winecellars. Interestingly, this winery is traditionally known for its sweeter festival friendly wines but has mad a concerted effort to enhance its dry wine portfolio. These wines were our focus through the Reserve Tasting ($10), which consisted of nine wines. These ranged from the dessert 2015 Midnight Bramble ($46) through a couple off-dry to several dry.  The 2017 White Raven ($14; Cayuga & Chardonnay) and 2018 Terrapin ($14; Melody & Vidal) were both light and refreshing with the later providing a distinct apple profile. The crux of the whites was the 2017 Reserve Chardonnay ($27) fermented in oak then aged an additional six months in barrel. This is a full bodied wine, depth and creamy with lifting acids. Nicely done. The reds were Chambourcin centric with three wines showing the flexibility of that prolific grape. The 2016 Exposure ($46) is a classic Bordeaux blend but I preferred the 2017 Cabernet Franc ($35) that we received a sneak peek and has more creamy texture than green character.  The fact that Linganore produces 50,000 cases of wine using practically all estate grapes is worth a visit and tour - whether festival season, Maryland Wine Month, or year round. Cheers.

Revisiting the 2011 Ventosa Vineyards Estate Lemberger

In August 2015 the annual Wine Bloggers Conference was held in New York's Finger Lakes and consisted of a pre-conference excursion to the Seneca Lake AVA. I participated in this trip which included a visit to Ventosa Vineyards - located on the Northeast shore of the lake. At this winery, we tasted their 2011 Estate Lemberger. Now as readers know, we are immediately drawn to this grape varietal whether named Lemberger, Blaufränkisch, or Kekfrankos. And we particularly gravitated to this wine when we learned that it had just been awarded the 2015 New York Governors Cup. That day winemaker Jenna Lavita (co-owner of Lake Drum Brewing) mentioned that the "blue" grape is planted on warmer sites because of its early budding nature, although it ripens later - translating to longer maturity time. My tasting notes refer to a dark black cherry wine, with subtle spice and tobacco, decent tannins, and generous acids. Naturally, I purchased a bottle to bring home and four and a half years later I pulled the cork. The acids have kept the wine fresh, with similar dark cherry fruit, textured, with more leather and spice instead of tobacco. The wine finishes with chewy tannins and still decent acidity. Nicely done Jenna.

Caboose Commons: Cashless, Coffee, and Craftbeer

This week I finally allocated time to visit Caboose Commons, a new craft brewery located in the Fairfax Mosiac District. This stand-alone facility with adequate parking maintains several other characteristics that differ from its older sibling, Vienna's Caboose Brewing.  First, it is cashless. Not a problem until you ask to open a tab. The brewery is strictly pay as you go - one beer at a time.  Also, flights are not an option; tasters yes, a flight no. Second, the brewery acts as a typical coffee house. On this visit, most of the visitors were occupied staring into laptops or devices, coffee cups adjacent to the screens. The wifi must be powerful for the amount of devices. Next, the facility is more spacious than the Vienna brewery - or at least it appears as such with a larger outdoor space and two levels of loft seating. And finally, the menu is larger - regarding both food and craft beverages. While still sourcing from local artisans, the restaurant provides breakfast at 7AM as well as an all-day menu and then a combined lunch and dinner selection. As for craft beverages, there's an expanded wine list and during our visit 14 craft beers available. Caboose's strength is their German and Czech styled ales and lagers -- particularly their Schwarzbier.  I tasted their relatively new Slam Dunkel and Stop Drop & Doppelbock (both stylistically accurate) before settling on the session-able Earl of Hops. This IPA is clean with loads of fresh citrus. Nicely done. And as always, theCompass Craft Beverage Finder contains information for both Caboose locations. Cheers.

Chateau Chantal 2016 30-year-vineyard Anniversary Reserve Chardonnay

The final segment of the #WineStudio - Michigan Wine Collaborative presentation featured a pioneer in that state's wine industry: Chateau Chantal Winery. In 1983 Robert and Nadine Begin purchased 60 acres of cherry orchards in the Old Mission Peninsula to form the foundation for Begin Orchards. They quickly diversified into winegrapes and planted various grapes varieties including Chardonnay -- planted in 1986. Fast forward to today and Chateau Chantal is not only a respected winery but also a hospitality center with a B&B and rooms for executive retreats. In addition, those 30+ year old Chardonnay vines are maturing nicely and were recently the sole vintage in the Chateau Chantal 2016 30-year-vineyard Anniversary Reserve Chardonnay ($30). This barrel-fermented wine is very representative of Michigan Chardonnay with layers of lemon, peaches, green apples, creamy texture, slight vanilla, and finishing with lifting acids. A delicious wine. Cheers.

W&OD Bike Trail: Reston's Bike Lane Brewing & Cafe

Writing this during another cold and soggy morning I can't wait any longer for Spring - at least it may be a warm soggy morning. But Spring also brings bicycle season particularly trips along the W&OD Trail visiting Virginia breweries using theCompass. These trips include a new stop as The Bike Lane bike shop has expanded into Bike Lane Brewing & Cafe. This facility is located at mile marker 16.5 on the WO&D Trail and by vehicles on Sunset Hills between Whiele and Hunter Mill Road. Co-owner Todd Mader is the head brewer and brews small badges beyond a row of new bicycles. I'm looking forward to the Chamois Cream Ale during rides but on this cold visit I stuck to the roasty The Love Oatmeal Stout and the clean grapefruit of the WOD A Ride IPA. Because of the its nano status expect weekly changes to the lineup. Cheers and safe travels.

Lodi Wine and Chocolate with Macchia Zinfandel & BRIX

Earlier this month the Lodi Winegrape Commission hosted their annual Wine & Chocolate Weekend where attendees received one ounce of 60% cocoa Medium Dark chocolate bar from BRIX Chocolate to pair with various wine.  This chocolate was intentionally created to be paired with red wine and is "composed of a base of single origin Ghanaian chocolate which is known for its unique red fruit tones.  Thus BRIX works to evoke subtle flavors and nuances in the wines it is paired with, thus complementing them rather than competing against them." Belatedly we received a sample of the chocolate as well as a bottle of Macchia Wines Mischievous 2017 Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel ($22) to evaluate this pairing.

The Mischievous is a typical fruit-forward Lodi Zinfandel produced from grapes harvested from 50 to 100-year-old vines. It was blended with some Petite Sirah to add structure and complexity. On its own, it is quite delicious. Then add the BRIX. Interestingly the chocolate is not only named for the wine term that indicates the amount of sugar in wine grapes but also comes as a solid brick. In the end, we decided to shave a little sliver into the glass - and the chocolate character blended seamlessly with the wine's fruit structure. A complete match. Fantastic. We then experimented with pairing the Zinfandel with a Hershey's Kiss and 85% German chocolate. Not even close. The darker chocolate was too bitter and clashed with the wine's fruit character and the Hersheys overwhelmed it. Instead of competing with the wine, BRIX is a solid complement to the Mischievous. Cheers.

Disclosure: We received samples from the Lodi Winegrape Commission in order to share our opinion about their products, but this isn’t a sponsored post.

Michigan Wine from Old to New, St. Julian to Amoritas

February's weekly #WineStudio twitter chat is focusing on Michigan Wine and the non-profit collaborative Michigan Wine Collaborative (see intro post here).  The second week focused on two wineries St. Julian Winery from the ‏Lake Michigan Shore AVA and Amoritas Vineyards from the Leelanau Peninsula AVA -- most notable in that St. Julian is Michigan's oldest and largest winery and Amoritas is a relative newcomer.

Family-owned St. Julian Winery has been operating since 1921 when Italian emigrant Mariano Meconi founded Border City Wine Cellars in Ontario at 26 years of age. Following the repeal of Prohibition, he moved across the border into Detroit and then eventually to the winery's current location in Paw Paw while changing the name to The Italian Wine Company. In 1941 the operation was christened St. Julian Winery to avoid any antifascist sentiment and to honor the the patron saint of his native village, Faleria, Italy. For the next eight decades St. Julian has facilitated the growth in the Michigan wine industry through the emphasis on hybrid and fruit wines to the more recent single varietal viniferia wines. Last week, winemaker Nancie Oxley presented two of these single varietal viniferia wines, a Riesling and a Grüner Veltliner.

2017 Mountain Road Riesling Lake Michigan Shore AVA ($19.99)
The 20 acre Mountain Road Estate was planted in the late 2000s  by David Braganini, third generation owner of St. Julian Wine Company and his brother John Braganini. This estate lies upon porous sandy soils and experience warm sunny days transitioning to cool evenings - very suitable for retaining acidity in wine grapes. Starting in 2015 the Riesling harvest was whole clustered pressed resulting in less juice but higher quality which was then inoculated with a yeast strain used mostly for Sauvignon Blanc. Fermentation is stopped at 1.1% residual sugar to balance with the enhanced acidity. The result is a weighty wine, full of citrus flavors, slight petrol and loads of refreshing acidity.

2017 Braganini Reserve Grüner Veltliner Lake Michigan Shore AVA ($19.99)
In 1967 Ed & Phyllis Oxley purchased a farm located on the highest point in the county and planted with grapes and tart cherries.  This elevation provides abundant drainage and diurnal temperatures for the 100 acres of wine grapes which include Grüner Veltliner. These grapes are cold fermented - lengthening the process to enhance aromatics and acidity. And separate picking provides both tropical and grassy elements. The result is a delicious wine, with citrus aromas, tropical fruit, and racy acids. Showing its pedigree, the previous vintage was awarded the 2017 Jefferson Cup for White Vinifera Wine.


Amoritas Vineyards is a 150 acre estate located in the Leelanau Peninsula AVA - home to Michigan’s first wine trail. The estate consists of rolling hills and sandy loam soils providing a very suitable climate for wine grapes. Initially the Goodell family sold fruit to other vineyards but more recently they have begun releasing small production single varietal wines. During our #Winestudio session Viticulturalist Emily Goodell presented their 2016 Rose Crest Vineyard Chardonnay - the first harvest from vines planted three years previously in 2013.

2016 Rose Crest Vineyard Chardonnay, Leelanau Peninsula ($21.00)
This unoaked wine provides typical Chardonnay descriptors of soft apple and citrus with subtle minerals and refreshing acidity.  Nicely done particularly from such young vines.

For more on Michigan wines participate in the final #Winestudio session on February 19th 2019 at 9PM E.T. Cheers.

The 2016 Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards Valley View Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

The Valley View Vineyard is a 35-acre hilltop vineyard in Santa Barbara County's Santa Ynez Valley. Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards grows several Bordeaux grape varieties on this south facing vineyard which overlooks the Santa Ynez River primarily because it is slightly warmer than in neighboring eastern and northern appellations. On the lower plots, Cabernet Sauvignon calls home whereas Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec are planted. These grapes provide the juice for their excellent 2016 Valley View Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($25) - a 75% Cabernet Sauvignon wine filled in by these other grape varieties. Why just 75%? According to wine-maker Megan McGrath-Gates, each varietal input adds their distinctive "personalities" to the finished wine.  And after aging  21 months in 100% French oak barrels, the resulting wine provides fresh dark fruit, earthy tobacco, and a long juicy, tannic tail. A true bargain at this price point. Cheers.

Disclosure: We received samples from Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards in order to share our opinion about their products, but this isn’t a sponsored post.

Visit the Las Vegas Arts District & Hop Nuts Brewing

When visiting Las Vegas, it's usually a wise idea to leave the casinos and partake in the surrounding environment. After touring the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Red Rocks turn to the local craft beer scene. One suggestion is Hop Nuts Brewing - located in the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District. The tasting room is long and dark - providing a dive bar feel - with plenty of craft beer on tap. These included several styles of IPAs, Lagers, and Saisons. I started with small pours of the robust Bourbon Barrel Aged Omniscient Imperial Stout (10% ABV 69 IBU’s) and the smooth Harry Porter (6.8% ABV 46 IBU’s). The former was aged one year in Woodford Reserve Bourbon barrels and the whiskey profile dominates the chocolate coffee. On the other hand, the chocolate dominated the porter. However, my serial beverage was the Hell of a Helles (4.9% ABV 16 IBU's) a collaboration with Albertshöfer Sternbräu. This is a clean and fresh beer - spot on inviting easy and probably exceeding consumption. And as always, theCompass Craft Beverage Finder will guide you to any craft beverage destination.  Cheers.

#WineStudio Hosts the Michigan Wine Collaborative during February

Those who have been following the Drink Local Wine scene know that Michigan has a thriving wine industry. To others, this may come as a complete surprise. According to Michigan Wine and theCompass Craft Beverage Finder, there are 180 winery tasting rooms operating in the Great Lakes state. These wineries produce 2.75 million gallons of wine per year from 3,050 vineyard acres which represent $5.4 billion in total economic impact. And according to the TTB, Michigan ranks 14th by state in bottled wine production.

But a relatively new organization, the Michigan Wine Collaborative, is trying to improve that number. This non-profit collaborative has a goal to "enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine industry by supporting wineries, growers and other businesses and individuals connected to the industry...".

And one avenue for promoting the Michigan wine industry is through the weekly twitter forum #WineStudio. On February 12th and 19th (9PM E.T.) participants will be learning and discussing wine from St. Julian Winery ‏Lake Michigan Shore AVA, Amoritas Vineyards Leelanau Peninsula AVA, L. Mawby Winery Leelanau Peninsula AVA, and Big Little Wines Leelanau Peninsula AVA.

So why should you participate?   First, the state is dissected by the 45th Parallel -- the famed imaginary line that runs through Italy's Piedmont region; the Rhone Valley and Bordeaux in France; the Willamette Valley in Oregon, and the Leelanau Peninsula in Michigan. The latter is home to the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail - perhaps the most prolific region in the state. Each wine region is unique but along the 45th Parallel vineyards receive the same angle of the sun and length of day. Second, Michigan also produces a wide range of wine styles from dry to ice wine, from viniferia, labrusca, and hybrid grapes to cherry and apple wines and cider. Like Rhone, Pinot grapes are prevalent as in Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and even Pinot Meunier. Other cold climate grapes are Riesling and Gewurztraminer plus Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot (see Bordeaux reference above). Finally, you can learn how the cold climate nature of Michigan increases threats from spring freezes, winter burn, and mildew pressures from Michigan's high level of precipitation. This is amplified in tight cluster varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinots as wind flows are less likely to help dry the grapes.  See you online. Cheers.

Silver Spring Maryland is a Craft Beverage Destination

Probably because it is not incorporated, Silver Spring encompasses a large area bordered by the DC and PG County lines and extended to Burtonsville, Colesville, and Wheaton. However the business district's heart is the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road and slowly a plethora of craft beverage establishments have opened in that vicinity.

I recently visited a few of these including the neighboring Great Shoals Winery in Takoma Park. This establishment recently moved from their Heyser Farms Colesville location where the delicious Spencerville Red apples mysteriously self- propagated. The winery first made a name for itself producing the Spencerville Red Hard Apple cider which is still a personnel favorite. The Black Twig is another single apple varietal cider but expect more traditional apple and pear cider blends. They also offer a range of wines from dry to sweet as well as local craft beer.

Denizens Brewing Co. enjoys the honor as the first local craft beer producer in Silver Spring and since 2014 has provided a solid selection of core and seasonal beers. Their Born Bohemian Czech-style Pilsner, Southside Rye IPA, Third Party Belgian-style Tripel, and Ponch’s Porter have been staples during previous visits so this time I focused on their seasonals. This included the delicious Cool Breeze Oatmeal Stout, Animal IPA, Ill Cru Mixed Culture Strong Sour Ale, and the Lowest Lord Extra Strong Bitter. This last was an unexpected surprise - smooth but richer than those enjoyed in English pubs. Expect a larger portfolio and increased distribution as Denizens opens a new production\tasting facility in Riverdale very soon.


Just down Georgia Avenue, Astro Lab Brewing opened just a couple months ago and the current lineup is IPA centric with a lonely Moo Milk Stout as the only alternative. This is a delicious beer, soft but packing loads of chocolate flavors. I included the S.P.F. 100 XPA Pale Ale into the IPA category and several years ago that would have been your strongest IPA. This is another well made beer joining the IPAs as approachable offerings. The Nebula Imperial Double IPA is so so smooth and the No Mates - Mosaic American IPA and No Mates - Columbus American IPA are great representation of a single hop varietal beers.


For those seeking wine, The Urban Winery is located very close to Astro Lab and expect a new brewery, Silver Branch Brewing Company to open in the coming months. And as always, theCompass Craft Beverage Finder will show you these destinations. Cheers.

The Chardonnay that Leverages the Chalk Hill AVA and Estate

The Chalk Hill Estate Winery benefits from tremendous name recognition based on the winery's outstanding reputation but also from the surrounding Chalk Hill AVA. This appellation, one of thirteen in Sonoma County, is located between the cooler Russian River appellation to the west and the warmer Alexander Valley to the northeast. The Chalk Hill AVA is slightly higher with lower soil fertility with the top soil a "distinctive layer of chalk-colored volcanic ash which inspired the name of Chalk Hill, the appellation, and the estate". Within both the AVA and Estate reside several microclimates with the lower cooler sites more suited for Chardonnay used in the Chalk Hill Estate 2016 Chardonnay ($42). The vines were planted using Vertical Viticulture techniques where the rows were planted to follow the rise of the terrain. Cover crops prevent erosion and the layout allows breezes and sun exposure which translates to acidity and ripeness. The grapes were fermented using native yeasts with frequent lees stirring and aged eleven months in 100% French oak. The result is a very balanced wine with depth and texture from stirring and noticeable butter and spices from the oak treatment. Yet, neither overwhelms the fresh fruit flavor of the Chardonnay and refreshing acidity that boosts the finish. A classic Chardonnay.

Toasted Goat Winery and the History of Frostburg Maryland

In 1806, President Thomas Jefferson authorized the construction of the National Road - the first major highway in the United States built by the federal government and linking the western territories to east coast cities. Specifically, the 620-mile pike was built between 1811 and 1837 and allowed goods and settlers to move considerable easier between the Potomac and Ohio Rivers. Early in the surveying period, "Meshach Frost built the first house in present-day Frostburg in 1812 (on the present-day the site of St. Michael's Church and Rectory)" In 1820 the growing town was named Frostburg and the community continued to grow even as the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal reached the Cumberland area in the mid 1800s. In fact, the railroads accelerated the local economy by providing transportation for the coal industry in which Meshach Frost also helped develop through the Frostburg Coal Company. And during the Civil War the manufacture of fire brick became a leading industry.

These economic trends continued to the turn of the century when the Hotel Gladstone opened in downtown Frostburg in 1897. Eventually, William Gunter purchased the building, renamed it Hotel Gunter, and installed a jail for prisoners being transferred and a cock-fighting ring in the basement. Other vices continued through prohibition as the basement also operated as a speakeasy.

In much more recent times the hotel was purchased by local Frostburg residents Donny and Kristan Carter and is now the home of Toasted Goat Winery. The couple opened the winery a couple years back in the Arts and Entertainment District and will remain in the district as they move operations to the hotel. The arts are a major influence in the winery's theme as evident by the label paintings displayed behind the tasting bar. These labels celebrate various aspects of Frostburg such as featuring church steeples, bridges, and rail trains. Donny Carter is the winemaker and produces a range of styles using local and American sourced fruit. On the other hand, Kristan Carter is a home brewer and ensures that the tasting room includes Maryland craft beers via pints and flights. In the future, the couple plans to open a full-service restaurant to cater to both hotel guests and visitors.

During a visit to Frostburg State University (the other FSU), we stopped in for a flight of mostly white wines. The Steeple White ($14.99) was the clear favorite as the Pinot Grigio is fermented to 1% r.s. providing a fruity counter-balance to the excellent acidity. This wine was book-ended by the sweeter Moscato ($18.99) and drier Chardonnay ($18.99). For the reds, our party also enjoyed the Cabernet Sauvignon laced Steeple Red ($16.99) and the dessert Chocolate Covered Raspberries wine. We also explored the hotel's basement containing the old jail and relics from the coal mining era.  We look forward to visiting again soon using theCompass Craft Beverage Finder. Cheers.

Founding Spirits Distillery: Farm to Table "Never Bitter" Amaro

When is an Amaro not bitter? That was the question that Jon Arroyo and Bob VanLancker wanted to answer as part of the Washington D.C. farm to table kitchen and distillery: Founding Spirits Distillery. This Italian liqueur literally translates to "bitter" and is usually consumed as a cocktail ingredient or an after-dinner digestif. Instead the Founding Spirits Arroyo’s "Never Bitter" Amaro is intended to be more approachable and consumed both as an aperitif and digestif as well as in cocktails. It is distilled onsite using their Founding Spirits Vodka as a base and then infused with multiple herbs, roots, spices, and botanicals. The vodka is in itself very clean and distilled from North Dakota Hard Red Spring Wheat and Virginia rye and barley.

On a recent visit, I was able to sample the Amaro neat and in two interesting cocktails - all during a delicious family meal. Sipping neat, the liqueur is slightly sweet and savory towards the front, with the finish introducing a somewhat bitter experience. But much more approachable than most bitters. For cocktails, the Amaro was an interesting ingredient in a Piña Colada -- providing a balance with the sweet pineapple and coconut milk. Even better was the How Jefferson Woulda Liked It -- a concoction of Founding Farmers Rye Whisky, Founding Spirits Amaro, lemon, brandied cherry, and an orange slice. This was brilliant, with the Amaro contrasting with the sweet and spicy rye whiskey.  In fact, the whiskey was has been produced for the past decade as a partnership between Arroyo and Rick Wasmund of Copper Fox Distillery. In traditional Copper Fox style, the barley and rye were malted using apple and cherrywood. Excellent.

In addition to the three spirits mentioned above, Founding Spirits produces an American Whiskey that is distilled at Copper Fox but aged in D.C. and the Founding Spirits Gin, distilled onsite. On our next visit we will target these spirits and as always, you can locate Founding Spirits using theCompass Craft Beverage Finder. Cheers.

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery - A Free State First

On our many trips home from Catoctin Breeze Vineyards, we've always noticed Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery as we traveled south on Route 15 passed Thurmont and Cunningham Falls State Park. Perched on a small hill overlooking the highway and farmland, this multi-purpose 1775 era farmhouse has a few firsts in the Free State. It was the first post-prohibition legal distillery in Maryland holding license #001. There were a couple spirits that were bottled previously, but Springfield Manor was the first to distill in Maryland. Their corn and grain spirits (Bourbon, Rye Whiskey, Corn Whiskey, & Caramel Corn Whiskey) consist all or partly from corn grown on their 130 acre farm. The fruit brandies are produced from locally sourced fruit and the Grappa from Merlot and Cabernet Franc pomace (the skins, pulp, seeds, and stems left over from winemaking after pressing the grapes).

Springfield Manor initially started operating as a winery to augment their event venue with the Ironmaster as a signature blend of the Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The later is also bottled as a single varietal which join the Ironmaster, Ironmaster Reserve, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Blanc De Rosa (rose) as dry offerings. They also utilize the hybrids Chambourcin and Traminette as well as offer two Farmhouse house wines and a Frizante sparkling wine.

Finally, Springfield Manor became the first establishment in the state to not only produce their own spirits and wine, but also beer as they incorporated a 7bbl brewhaus. With this small brewing system, expect a range of rotating drafts using the Manor's signature spring water.

On our visit, we skipped the wines in order to enjoy a beer flight while listening to the live music of Nick Andrew Staver. This flight consisted of the Citrus IPA, Toasted Nut Job Stout, Summer-Set Blonde and Sunshine Station Pale Ale. A solid lineup. We then moved downstairs for a spirits tasting and Springfield Manor accentuates the fact that their Lavender Gin was awarded a Double Gold & Best Of Class from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.  And it is a complex gin. We also enjoyed their Patriot Rum distilled from pure molasses and the Grappa. We will have to return in mid-January 2019 when they re-open for the season in order to sample their remaining spirits.

As always local wineries, breweries, and distilleries  can be visited while using theCompass Craft Beverage Finder. Sorry iPhone 11 iOS and iPhones 5S and greater users. Cheers.