Weekend Beer Buzz 02/07/2013
Another glorious week here in old Colorado. The little varmint didn’t see his shadow, so maybe that explains the 50 degree weather all week.
Animals turn Humans into clowns. Babies seem to have that ability as well.
In other news, we visited The Source last week to check out the future digs for a variety of local artisans, but specifically Crooked Stave.
An update can be found HERE. We’ve extremely excited about this new venture and we’ll be keeping you updated along the way.
Breckenridge Brewery announced their plans to open an environmentally friendly new brewery, farmhouse, hop farm and more over in Littleton along the Platte River. They plan to break ground in 2013 and open in 2014.
Another very exciting turn of events in our world of CO breweries. Check out their page for the official announcement.
Lastly, congrats to De Steeg and Fate Brewing, who both had successful openings last week. We can’t wait to stop by for a visit and a chance to try your brews.
Grab a beer and let’s toast to Animals, Babies, Crooked Stave, Breckenridge, De Steeg and Fate on an awesome week. Now, sit back, grab your calendar and start planning your weekend. It starts… wait for it… get ready… NOW!
Thursday, February 7th, 2013
Renegade Brewing launches their next wave of cans today! Cans of Elevation Triple IPA and 5:00 Afternoon Ale have been showing up at better beer stores around town all week. To celebrate the release, Renegade’s hosting a party on Thursday from 6 – 10 PM.
Stop by for a pint and grab some cans to-go. Renegade Brewing is located at: 925 W 9th Ave, Denver, CO 80204. 720-401-4089.
Yak & Yeti Head Brewer Adam Draeger has plenty of great options to pick from this week, including a newly tapped Vanilla Porter, brewed with real Madagascar vanilla beans.
Tune in next week, when Adam taps a Bock, Cherry Porter and Red Hots Wheat, his special Valentine’s Day brew made with Red Hots candies. Yak & Yeti is located at: 7803 Ralston Rd, Arvada, CO 80002. 303-431-9000.
Friday, February 8th, 2013
Dry Dock Brewing in Aurora has your firkin fix this week. Stop by and try this week’s Firkin Friday release, which is a Lavender Dark Saison.
Tapping at 3 PM. Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Down South at Rockyard Brewing in Castle Rock, Jellyman’s got a 4.5% ABV Ginger Ale made with “fresh ginger, French oak and a tin of ginger Altoids”. This one’s called “NOT MARIANNE”. See if you can figure out the connection between the name and the beer.
Tapping at 4 PM. Rockyard Brewing is located at: 880 W Castleton Rd, Castle Rock, CO 80109. 303-814-9273.
Parry’s Pizza is hosting “Firkin Right Friday” and tapping some Barrel-Aged West Coast IPA from California’s Green Flash Brewing on Friday at 4 PM. Love this beer. To see a Green Flash firkin in CO is a rare treat. Get some.
Parry’s Pizza is located at: 9567 S University Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. 303-683-0600.
Still not enough firkins fir ya? Then get the firk over to High Hops Brewery and Hop Farm in Windsor for their Inaugural Firkin Fest. Look for 14 taps to be pouring, plus special one-day only firkins, food and live music. The beer starts flowing at noon.
High Hops Brewery is located at: 6461 Hwy 392, Windsor, CO 80550. 970-674-2841.
Our Mutual Friend Malt & Brew will tap their new Weizenbock on Friday at 7 PM.
7% ABV, 31 IBU’s. Stop by and check out one of Denver’s newest breweries. Our Mutual Friend is located at: 2810 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205. 720-722-2810.
Saturday, February 9th, 2013
Somewhat quiet Saturday around town this week, so we’re heading to California for the Inaugural San Diego Brew Fest and a visit to some of our favorite West Coast breweries like Lost Abbey and Stone. Keep an eye on the Facebook Page for updates. We’ll have a full report next week.
In the meantime, get your brew news fix with our friends Turk and the Gubna on the Colorado Craft Beer Show.
This week, they’ll be joined in the studio with Brian Hutchinson, who formerly brewed at Mountain Sun and is now brewing at Cannonball Creek Brewing Company, which just opened in Golden last month. They’ll also have David Zuckerman and Dan Weitz from Boulder Beer in the studio. Tune into the Colorado Craft Beer Show on AM 760 from noon – 2 PM on Saturday.
Odell will release Amuste at the brewery on Saturday. This is an “Imperial Porter aged in oak wine barrels accented with juice from Tempranillo grapes grown on the Western Slope of Colorado”.
Pick up a bottle to-go and stick around for a glass at the brewery. Sales will begin at 11 AM, with live music at 4 PM. This should hit local shelves very soon, so keep an eye out. Odell Brewing is located at: 800 E Lincoln Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524. 970-490-9070.
Copper Kettle Brewing Company is bringing back their Smoked Porter this weekend.
Tapping at noon, food truck at 4 PM and live music at 6 PM. Copper Kettle Brewing Company is located at: 1338 S Valentia St, Denver, CO 80247. 720-443-CKBC.
Don’t forget this week’s German lesson with Bill Eye from Prost Brewing.
Hey, if you’re going to learn a foreign language, you better at least know how to speak Beer. Thanks Bill! Prost Brewing is located at: 2540 19th St, Denver, CO 80211. 303-729-1175.
Pliny the Younger Update
The Pliny’s been raging this week out at Russian River Brewing in Santa Rosa, CA.
No word yet on when we’ll see kegs around town, but we should have some information at some point next week. Stay tuned!
Dark Lord Day 2013
Speaking of hyped, big beers. Dark Lord Day 2013 is coming. Last week, Three Floyds Brewing unveiled a new logo for their über popular Russian Imperial Stout. I guess they ran out of different colors of wax, so it was time to change the label in order for us beer nerds to differentiate between the vintages.
Looks pretty sharp. And angry! There are rumors that Three Floyds will move this year’s event to a location away from the brewery, in order to better accommodate the crowds. We’ll keep you posted with updates as we get ’em.
That’s it for this weekend.
Cheers!
Weekend Beer Buzz 01/31/2013
Another great week here in Colorado. Last weekend, we had the opportunity to check out the Denver Winter Brew Fest. We put together a recap and shared a ton of pictures from our visit to this fun festival.
We also launched the first in a series of collaborative beer reviews that we’re working on with Dave Butler over at Fermentedly Challenged. Together, we put together an in-depth look at Lugene Milk Chocolate Stout. So far, the feedback has been very positive. I know we both enjoyed working on the review, so be on the lookout for more “coblogorative” style reviews in the future.
And now, here we are again, getting ready for a weekend full of great craft beer. 2013 looks to be the year of the new brewery. I’d say we’re on pace for an average of 1 new brewery to open every week in Colorado this year. I’m not complaining, but it’s going to be a very busy year in the world of craft beer. This coming weekend, we’ll see three new breweries open in just four days. If we keep this up, we’ll have to host two GABF’s. One for Colorado and one for the rest of the U.S.
Right NOW!
Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids & Solids is tapping a few special kegs from Goose Island on Thursday night.
Matilda, Sofie, Pere Jacques and Mild Winter will all be available. Wait, I think I’m forgetting one… Hmmm, what could it be? Oh yeah, Bourbon County Brand Stout! Now we’re talking. Get over to Liquids & Solids for this special tapping, which runs from 4 – 6 PM. Oskar Blues HMLS is located at: 1555 S Hover Rd, Longmont, CO 80501. 303-485-9400.
Our Mutual Friend’s Imperial Belgian IPA will probably kick soon.
Head over today and don’t miss out! Our Mutual Friend is located at: 2810 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205. 720-722-2810.
Crooked Stave has some tasty treats on tap as well.
Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project is located at: 1441 W 46th Ave, Unit 19, Denver, CO 80211. 720-508-3292.
Over at Yak & Yeti, Head Brewer Adam Draeger tapped his Orange-Chocolate Porter last night. Only 1 keg was available and it’s long gone. But fear not, he’s got plenty of other great brews to share. Earlier this week, he tapped the newest release in his Haunted Series. This time it’s “Yak’s R.I.S.”, a big ol’ 10% ABV, 100+ IBU Russian Imperial Stout. Here’s the rest of the lineup for this week.
Yak & Yeti is located at: 7803 Ralston Rd, Arvada, CO 80002. 303-431-9000.
This is the final weekend to reserve your seat for Falling Rock’s Annual Barleywine Dinner on Tuesday, February 5th.
The multi-course menu is still being planned and there are vegetarian options available, if you notify them ahead of time. In the past, there have been up to a dozen barleywines paired at this dinner. Tickets are $55. Call or stop by Falling Rock to reserve your seat for this great event. Falling Rock Tap House is located at: 1919 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-293-8338.
Friday, February 1st, 2013
We’ve got a new brewery opening on Friday! De Steeg is set to open their doors on Friday at 4 PM. Owner Craig Rothgery is ready to pour his first beers from the newest brewery to open in the Highlands neighborhood of Denver.
This weekend, he’ll be pouring a 5.1% ABV English Mild on Nitro, a 5.5% ABV Pomegranate Acai Wheat and an 11% ABV Imperial Pumpkin. Come out and explore the area as the opening has been coordinated with the Tennyson Street First Friday Artwalk, which spotlights local artisans and restaurants. De Steeg Brewing is located at: 4342 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212. 303-484-9698.
In Aurora, Dry Dock Brewing’s got a Mosaic Dry-hopped IPA ready to roll for Firkin Friday.
Tapping at 3 PM. Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Jellyman’s tapping “The French Press” for his Deviation this week down at Rockyard Brewing in Castle Rock.
This is a 6% ABV Coffee Stout brewed with the second runnings of Wilson, their very tasty Russian Imperial Stout (which is getting bottled today). Tapping at 4 PM. Rockyard Brewing is located at: 880 W Castleton Rd, Castle Rock, CO 80109. 303-814-9273.
Breckenridge Brewery is back again this month with their Firkin First Fridays.
This month’s release is their Avalanche Amber Ale with Kaffir lime leaves and dry-hopped with Summit Hops. Get out and enjoy the nice weather and this great sounding brew. Tapping at 4 PM. Breckenridge Brewery is located at: 471 Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80204. 303-573-0431.
Can’t get enough freakin’ firkins? Then head over to Hops & Pie for their Firkin 1st Friday release. This time it’s with Crooked Stave and their Surette Saison.
Look for plenty of funk and spices in this 6.5% ABV Saison that was aged in a Downslope whiskey barrel. Tapping at 6 PM. Hops & Pie is located at: 3920 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212. 303-477-7000.
Friday is also the kickoff for the “Run the Gauntlet” challenge over at Star Bar. 30 Avery beers in 28 days. Can you handle it? Probably not, but you should try anyways, because if you can, you’ll be rewarded with transportation from Star Bar to Avery Brewing for a private tour. Have you seen the beer list? Here’s a peek at some of the ridiculously tasty offerings they’re planning to tap:
– The Maharaja Imperial IPA
– The Czar Imperial Stout
– The Kaiser Imperial Oktoberfest
– Hog Heaven Barleywine
– The Reverend Belgian-Style Quad
– Salvation Belgian Golden
– New World Porter
– Lebenweizen
– Lilikoi Kepolo
– 3Point5 Pale Ale
– Bolder Weisse
– Tweak
…and more!
Star Bar is located at: 2137 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205. 720-328-2420.
Over at Falling Rock, it’s the start of “Dain Bramage Month”, with a month-long celebration of Barleywines!
Owner Chris Black acquired 6 new barleywines last week and plans to tap several vintage kegs Tuesday night for those lucky guests attending the Barleywine Dinner (see above). These will be available for everyone else beginning on Wednesday. No word on what will be tapped just yet. They’re still deciding what to pull out of the cellar. Falling Rock Tap House is located at: 1919 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-293-8338.
Don’t forget February is the beginning of Stout Month over at the Mountain Sun brewpubs. Stout Month is always a great time to stop by and enjoy some rich, roast brews.
Look for special beers to be released every Tuesday and Friday, beginning on 2/5 at all three locations. In addition to their own beers like Addicition Coffee Imperial Stout, Girl Scout Stout and Chocolate Dip, they’ve got plenty of great guest beers lined up as well. Keep your eyes open for Odell’s Lugene Chocolate Milk Stout, Renegade’s Black Gold Peanut Butter Stout, Wildwood’s S’mores Stout and dozens more. Mountain Sun is located at: 1535 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302. Souther Sun is located at: 627 S Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305. Vine Street Pub is located at: 1700 Vine St, Denver, CO 80206.
Saturday, February 2nd, 2013
We mentioned Verboten a few weeks ago when they had a soft opening at their location up in Loveland. But get ready, because their Grand Opening is coming up on Saturday afternoon.
They’ll be debuting their new brewery with live music, food trucks, beer cupcakes, giveaways and of course BEER! Verboten will be pouring Orange Blossom Honey Wheat, Lemongrass Wit, IPA, Caramel Porter, Espresso Stout, Kentucky Common Dark Cream Ale and Sour Rum Barrel-Aged Porter. The party starts at 1 PM. Be sure to check out this preview of Verboten from our friend Dave Butler over at Fermentedly Challenged. Verboten Brewing is located at: 1550 Taurus Ct, Loveland, CO 80537. 970-988-6333.
Dry Dock Brewing launched their cans to local retailers last week and that’s cause for celebration. Stop by the brewery for the official “Take it in the Can” launch party on Saturday from 11 AM – 5 PM. Snag a can of Apricot Blonde, Hop Abomination, Hefeweizen or Amber for only $3.
Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Don’t forget to check out the Colorado Craft Beer Show on AM760 from noon – 2 PM.
Don’t quote me, but I believe the boys are back in the studio this week. They always put on a great show, so be sure to tune in and see what’s on tap for this week.
Over on the FM side, Gary V and Dustin (from Avery Brewing) will be in the studio for American Craft Beer Radio.
This show is live on 102.3 FM ESPN Radio from 1 -2 PM.
Sunday, February 3rd, 2013
Go watch the Super Bowl already. Or at least watch the commercials and heckle whatever joke of an artist the NFL has chosen for the half-time show. Do your thing and drink a craft beer or two. Go Ravens.
Monday, February 4th, 2013
Fate Brewing in Boulder, will open their doors on Monday. They might not have their brewhouse up and running just yet, but that hasn’t stopped Head Brewer Jeff Griffith from getting out and brewing some beer. He’s already collaborated with multiple brewers in Boulder, including Wild Woods, Twisted Pine and Southern Sun.
Fate plans to have their collaborations pouring on Monday, along with twenty other Colorado craft beers. Over the past few weeks, I’ve tried the Imperial IPA, Cocoa Punk’n Porter and Eisbock and I love what I’ve had so far. Bring an appetite, as a full food menu will also be available. Fate Brewing is located at: 1600 38th St, Suite 100, Boulder, CO 80301.
Beer Hunters, Gatherers, Trappers and Traders
Pliny the Younger Season starts this weekend at Russian River in Santa Rosa, CA.
Here in Colorado, we’re still patiently waiting to see what beer bars will be allocated a keg of this beautiful beer. Try to remain calm and know that we’ll get you the details as soon as we can. In the meantime, enjoy this fun little documentary we came across last week.
Sour fans might want to consider securing a bottle or two of Cascade’s 2011 Vlad the Imp Aler, when they go on sale through the Cascade website this Saturday.
A little pricey at $30 / bottle, but this is a phenomenal beer. Mrs. Insane and I visited the brewery a while back for their Anniversary Party and this is one of my favorites from Cascade. The beer is a blend of Quads, Triples and Blonds and has been aged in select bourbon and wine barrels. Get some before they’re gone.
Firestone Walker will release their latest batch of §ucaba this week.
Beer hunters should keep an eye out for this barrel-aged American Barleywine to hit the CO market in the next few weeks. Drink fresh or age for later. (Or both.)
Lastly, for all the beer traders out there, Foothills Brewing out in North Carolina, will be releasing the 2013 batch of Sexual Chocolate on Saturday at the brewery in North Carolina.
1800 bottles of this delicious Russian Imperial Stout will be up for grabs during Saturday’s release. It’s well worth the trouble if you’re lucky enough to track down a bottle.
Almost forgot about your German lesson for this week.
Thanks Bill! Prost Brewing is located at: 2540 19th St, Denver, CO 80211. 303-729-1175.
Man, I’m spent. Hope that tides you over for a few days. Have fun, drink well and enjoy the big game.
Cheers!
Weekend Beer Buzz 09/27/2012
So here we are, just two weeks out from the Great American Beer Festival and there’s a bazillion fun, beer events happening around town to get you ready. It seems like every weekend is just building up to the granddaddy of beer festivals. We’ve got some awesome events to talk about and there’s no time to lose!
Wednesday, September 26th, 2012
Yak & Yeti’s Head Brewer Adam Draeger released his Dragon Wort Ale on Wednesday. The latest addition in his Haunted Series of beers is an 8.5% ABV Belgian-style Ale. It’s spiced with Dragon Wort (or Tarragon), a versatile ingredient that’s more commonly used for chicken, fish, cake and even soda.
Stop by Yak & Yeti Restaurant and Brewery to try Adam’s newest creation. Yak & Yeti is located at: 7803 Ralston Rd, Arvada, CO 80002
Thursday, September 27th, 2012
So I’ve got nothing for you on Thursday… Sad, I know. So why not take a ride over to Boulder for a visit to the new West Flanders Brewing Co. on Pearl Street Mall?
I had the chance to sample all of their beers, along with some items on the food menu on their opening day last week and I was really impressed. They’re already off to a great start with their menu and 6 tasty beers: Angry Monk, St. Mark’s Dubbel, Daisy Cutter Belgian Strong, Canniption Pale Ale, TBD ESB and Third Kingdom IPA. Look for a full post about West Flanders Brewing next week, but in the meantime, stop by for a visit. They’re located at: 1125 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302. 303-447-2739.
LATE ADDITION: Crooked Stave Barrel Cellar is pouring beers again today! After some confusion surrounding appropriate licenses for pouring beers in the tap room, the funkiest brewery in Denver is officially back open and ready to pour their tasty blends again.
This is awesome news and I’m glad owner / brewer Chad Yakobson was able to get things cleared up so quickly. Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project is open Wed – Sat from noon – 7 PM and is located at: 1441 W 46th Ave, Unit 19, Denver, CO 80211.
Friday, September 28th, 2012
Prost Brewing is kicking off their Oktoberfest on Friday at noon. They’ll be joined by Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, who in true Oktoberfest fashion, will be tapping the first keg of Prost Märzen.
The fun will run throughout the weekend, but you won’t want to miss the tapping on Friday as there will also be live music by The Rhinelanders and their Alpenhorn, while the Prost staff will be decked out in their best German garb. Bust out your lederhosen and dirndls and come on down for a Maß of the new Märzen. Prost Brewing is located at: 2540 19th St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-729-1175.
This week’s Firkin Friday over at Dry Dock Brewing is a Cherry Belgian Blonde. Stop by at 3 PM for a chance to try this round.
Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Down at the Rockyard, Jellyman’s brewed Keg Stand Red for this week’s Deviation release.
This is an “amped up version” of Rockyard’s Redhawk Ale. Sweet toffee and roasted aroma, with a hot hop bite. First glass gets poured at 4 PM. Don’t miss out. Rockyard Brewing is located at: 880 W Castleton Rd, Castle Rock, CO 80109. 303-814-9273.
Saturday, September 29th, 2012
Wow, Saturday’s big. HUGE!!!
Where to begin, where to begin….
Well, first up, Congrats are in order for Scott Witsoe over at Wit’s End Brewing, as they’ll be celebrating their 1-year Anniversary on Saturday.
Stop in from noon – 8 PM on Saturday and raise a glass to Scott and his awesome nano-brewery. They make some great beers and deserve your support. Marco’s Coal-Fired Pizza will be on-site to fill your tummy. Wit’s End Brewing is located at: 2505 W 2nd Ave, Unit 13, Denver, CO 80219. 303-459-4379.
Speaking of anniversaries, Boulder Beer is having their 33rd Anniversary Party on Saturday. That’s incredible! Congrats guys!
They’re hosting a Beer Rave at the brewery from 2 – 6 PM. Tickets are $30 and include a tasting glass, beer, music and food from Jimmy John’s. Look for 12 small batch beers from Boulder Beer, plus a variety of beers from more than 30 guest breweries. This is going to be a great afternoon! Good weather, good beer and the money goes towards the Danny Williams Fund. It doesn’t get much better than that. Stop by Boulder Beer Co. at: 2880 Wilderness Place, Boulder, CO 80301. 303-444-8448.
Oktoberfest! I already mentioned Prost, who’ll be continuing their German shenanigans throughout the weekend. Go see them. You’re not a certified Beer Geek until you’ve visited Prost. Just sayin’…
On the other side of town, Dry Dock is gearing up for Docktoberfest. This is a GREAT event and rumored to be their busiest and mostest funnest day of the year. Pardon my terrible grammar, but it’s an awesome time.
The doors open at 11AM, Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan will be tapping the first keg of Oktoberfest at 11:15 and from then on, mayhem and madness will ensue. Music will be provided by The Rhinelanders and their mighty Alpenhorn. There’s just something irresistible about accordion music and that huge horn from the Ricola commercials. Food will be on-site from Helga’s, the best freakin’ German food in town and the staff will be sporting their sharpest German duds. Mrs. Brewtally Insane will be pourin’, I’ll be drinkin’, it’ll be glorious. Come by and say hi. Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Up north in Loveland, Grimm Brothers will also be hosting their Oktoberfest on Saturday. This will be your first chance to buy a few bottles of Farmer’s Daughter, their Oktoberfest Lager.
This family friendly event will also feature live music, food, games, contests and limited edition steins for sale. Grimm Brothers Brewhouse is located at: 623 N Denver Ave, Loveland, CO 80537. 970-624-6045.
I spent some time last week plowing through some tasty Pumpkin Beers and shared my findings in two posts breaking down what’s out there and what’s coming our way. Click THIS and THAT to catch up. Which brings us to RUMPKIN!
Avery’s releasing their 2nd batch of Rumpkin on Saturday at 5PM! This is a glorious, amazingly, tasty, delectable, glorious… Wait, I already said that…. Damn, it’s good. And it’s big! Like The Beast Grand Cru ate a pumpkin patch. Avery’s resident barrel herder Andy Parker said he had trouble getting enough rum barrels this year, so expect lower production numbers and little-to-no distribution. If you want some, get your pumpkin lovin’ butt to Avery Brewing on Saturday for this release.
I’ll be there, muling beers back for my fellow geeks that can’t make it. If you’re lucky enough to attend, Avery always treats their guests to some awesome, small-batch, barrel-aged deliciousness. Just between you and me, I’ve heard Tweak (aka Coffee Meph, aka Meph Addict aka delicious, big stout Mephistopheles brewed with coffee) and Ross’s Mom (blended Red Sour Ale). There’s plenty more that will be pouring and remember, that’s just between you and me. OK?
So go up there, get your Rumpkin bottles and you’ll be sitting pretty with your loot. This high ABV brew is sure to age well for years to come. Avery Brewing is located at: 5763 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303. P.S. $10 / 12oz. bottle, 12 bottle limit, CASH ONLY!
Black Shirt Brewing is hosting another sneak-peek-teaser event on Saturday.
Black Shirt, you’re killing me! I want to come by, but not sure I’ll be back in time. I’ve even got 4 of those swanky Offero glasses longing to be filled with your beer. On Saturday, they’ll be open from 5 – 8 PM and pouring their wet-hopped Red Ale, brewed with locally harvested Centennial and Williamette Hops from Voss Farms in Arvada. I heard good things about last week’s sneak-peek. Me wants some! Black Shirt Brewing is located at: 3719 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205.
Don’t forget our friends on the radio.
The Colorado Craft Beer Show will be live at Arvada Beer.
The show will be live from noon – 2PM on AM 760. They’ll be joined by Hops & Pie owner Drew Watson (also celebrating their 1-year Anniversary) and will be giving away another pair of tickets to GABF! You won’t want to miss this. It’s a great time to visit Arvada Beer, as they’ll be tapping their Pumpkin Ale on Friday, which was brewed with 45 lbs of pumpkins, 1 gallon of vanilla and 5 lbs of spices. Nom, nom, nom! Arvada Beer is located at: 5600 Olde Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80002. 303-467-2337.
American Craft Beer Radio host Gary V., will be joined by Dustin Lemoine from Avery Brewing on 102.3 FM at noon. Chris Black from Falling Rock Tap House should be making an appearance and I’ll be there as well to talk about the upcoming Denver Beer Week and all of the Great American Beer Festival events planned around town.
We’ll also be talking about Avery’s Rumpkin release, discussing homebrewing topics with Duane Taylor from The Brew Hut and more. So grab your calendar and tune in at noon to 102.3 FM to make your plans for the next few weeks.
Sunday, September 30th, 2012
So I hear Falling Rock got their paws on a few bottles of Toronado 25. Yeah, read that again and just absorb it for a minute. Close your eyes and go to your happy place. You read it correctly, Toronado 25! Toronado 25 is an epic blend from Russian River Brewing, that was made to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the famous San Francisco Beer Bar, Toronado.
Not sure on the price, but, no matter, you won’t want to miss out when bottles make their appearance at 2PM. I still remember my first (and last…) sip of the incredible 20th Anniversary Blend. Amazing, complex, once in a lifetime kind of beer. Here’s the 25th blend:
4% Sonambic (barrel aged for 15 months)
16% Blonde Ale (barrel aged for 8 months)
36% Strong Pale Ale (barrel aged 12 months)
28% Ale Aged with Currants (barrel aged for 8 months)
12% Strong Dark Ale (barrel aged for 12 months)
4% Baltic Porter (barrel aged for 10 months)
Get some on Sunday so I don’t have to wipe away your tears when it’s gone. Falling Rock Tap House is located at: 1919 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-293-8338.
Before I wrap up, I just wanted to congratulate Wild Woods Brewery in Boulder. They opened for the first time on Tuesday, 9/25 with 6 beers: Wildflower Pale Ale, Treeline India Pale Ale, Campfire Red Ale, Ponderosa Porter, Smores Stout and Berry Wheat Patch.
Stop by and check them out on your next visit to Boulder. They’re located at: 5460 Conestoga Ct, Boulder, CO 80301. 303-484-1465.
I think that’s it. Man, I hope that’s it. Saturday is absolutely ridonkulious. If you can’t find a beer event to attend this weekend, I guess you don’t like beer. Anybody else notice that we have the potential for 4 Anniversary parties on the same weekend next year? Boulder Beer will be 34, Wit’s end will be 2, West Flanders will be 1 and Wild Woods will be 1. Aaah, that makes me happy.
Have fun this weekend, be responsible and be nice.
Cheers!
Weekend Beer Buzz 08/09/2012
After spending nearly two weeks visiting family and friends back on the east coast, I’m back home and ready to give you a full dose of your weekend beer news. To tell you the truth, it’s a little quiet this week, but there’s still several great events to talk about.
Just talked to Jellyman down at the Rockyard. So, last Friday’s scheduled Deviation, which was a French Oak Aged Belgian Triple, will in fact be tapped THIS Friday instead.
He’s calling it “Monk With A Woody” and describes it as “fruity and tart, with a strong oak presence”. Rockyard Brewing is located at: 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock, CO 80109.
Happy Birthday to the Denver Beer Co! They’re celebrating their 1st Anniversary by closing the street and hosting a huge bash on Saturday, August 11th from 2 – 9 PM.
Look for a dozen beers to be on tap, including a limited run of Imperial Graham Cracker Porter. Some of Denver’s top food trucks will be out as well, including The Uber Sausage and Basic Kneads Pizza. Hang out and listen to some live, local music too. Best of all, it’s FREE! Just show up, hang out, celebrate, ride your bike or grab a cab. Should be a great time. Denver Beer Co. is located at: 1695 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-433-2739.
Loveland Aleworks will have their Grand Opening this weekend. They’ve been open for about a month and have been very well received.
They’ve got 8 beers ready for you, including an IPA, Saison and an Imperial Stout that will be tapped for the first time this weekend. They plan to keep 10 beers on tap once they’re able to fill all the tap lines. Dave, over at Fermentedly Challenged was able to get a look inside the brewery and tasting room before their opening. Check out his post HERE. Loveland Aleworks is located at: 118 W 4th St, Loveland, CO 80537. 970-619-8726.
Over in Aurora, Dry Dock Brewing will be hosting their 1st Annual PIE-A-PALOOZA on Sunday, August 12th! This is something new on the calendar this year, but if it’s anything like their Chili Cook-Off, it’ll be a great time. This is set up as a pie competition, with four categories: Berry, Creamy, Fruit and Savory / Nut. Competitors will get to choose a Dry Dock beer to pair their pie with. Judging will be held in the barrel room at 12:30 PM and winners will be announced at 2 PM. E-mail: Pies@DryDockBrewing.com to get your pie entered.
If I were any sort of baker, I’d be all over this. If you’ve got some cooking skills, then be sure to give it a shot. Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
The Bull & Bush Brewery is turning 41 this summer! That’s insane! I LOVE IT! Cheers guys!
To commemorate this glorious occasion, they’re hosting “41 Beers in 41 Days”. They’ll be releasing a new beer every day for 41 days and the full schedule can be found HERE. They make some amazing beers and I’m drooling at some of the beers scheduled to be tapped. From their own Legend of the Liquid Brain to guest kegs like J.W. Lees Harvest Ale, you can’t go wrong! Cruise in and raise a celebratory pint. Bull & Bush Brewery is located at: 4700 Cherry Creek South, Denver, CO 80246. 303-759-0092.
Lastly, just a sneak peek into next week. The Royal Hilltop in Aurora will be tapping a keg of Pliny the Elder. This is one of the best, if not THE best IPA on the planet. I love this beer and I’m pretty excited to see it getting tapped so close to mi casa.
The lupulins will be flowing on Tuesday, August 14th at 7 PM. Sadly, I can’t make it, but you fellow hop freaks better save me some! I’ll be stopping by on Wednesday and I hope there’s a snifter or three left for me. The Royal Hilltop is located at: 18581 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80013.
That’s it ladies and gents! Enjoy your weekend!
Cheers!
Weekend Beer Buzz 07/19/12
It seems like every weekend, there are more and more events going on around town. There’s a TON of events happening this weekend. I’m not complaining, I just hope I can fit it all into one post. It’s worth a shot.
Start your weekend by hitting up Dry Dock’s Firkin Friday release on July 20th. Mix Master Walt has come up with Apple Pie Rye in July for this week’s release. 3 PM sucka!
Dry Dock Brewing is located at: 15120 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80014. 303-400-5606.
Speaking of Dry Dock, Patti and I will be pouring beers for them over at the Hops for Habitat Beer Festival on Friday, July 20th at the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, CO. Come out and drink some beer while raising money for the environment! This charity brewfest runs from 5 PM – 9 PM and will feature more than 15 Colorado breweries, food trucks, wagon rides, live music and more.
Some of the breweries pouring include Dry Dock, Copper Kettle, Odell, New Belgium and Ska. Stop by the Dry Dock booth and say Hi! Tickets for the event are $30 ($15 for DD’s) and can be purchased in advance HERE. The Plains Conservation Center is located at: 21901 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80013. 303-693-3379.
Celebrate Belgian Independence Day on Saturday, July 21st, over at the Wynkoop Brewing in Denver, CO. They’ll be hosting the 2nd Annual United Tastes of Belgium with more than 50 breweries on-hand, pouring authentic Belgian and Belgian-style beers.
Some amazing breweries will be in attendance including Stone, Great Divide, Crooked Stave, Duvel and of course Wynkoop. Check out the complete list of beers HERE. Advance tickets are $30, which covers your glass, beer, cheese and chocolate samples. Tickets can be purchased HERE. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door for $37.50. Wynkoop Brewing is located at: 1634 18th St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-297-2700.
The radio waves will be blowin’ up again with Turk and The Gubna from the Colorado Craft Beer Show on AM 760 at noon.
This week, they’ll be sitting down with the guys from TwinHops Brewing to talk about their campaign on Kickstarter and hear about their plans to open a brewery in Aurora next year. (More on TwinHops further down in this post). Also in the studio will be Whitney and John from City Star Brewing out of Berthoud, CO. The Colorado Craft Beer Show will also be giving away tickets to Kyle’s Brew Fest and the Denver Summer Brewfest, so keep your phones handy.
Over on American Craft Beer Radio, Gary V will be sitting down with a panel of beer judges. They’ll be breaking down the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) style guidelines, explaining how a beer is judged and doing some on-air tastings of commercial beers.
Tune in to the show on 102.3 FM on Saturday, July 21st at noon.
Where my freaks at? Sour Freaks that’s you! (Don’t get offended, I include myself in that category). The 2nd meeting of the Funk ‘n Wild Club is scheduled for Saturday, July 21st at Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids and Solids in Longmont, CO.
This unofficial club of local sour freaks doesn’t require a golden ticket or secret password to get inside. Just show up and be ready to get your mouth-puckering, funky, freak on. Breweries on-hand include Crooked Stave, Jolly Pumpkin, New Belgium, Russian River and more. Beers can be purchased in full pours, half pours or tasting flights. Special guest Chad Yakobson, the mastermind behind Crooked Stave Brewing is scheduled to be the guest speaker.
Dude, I’m pumped for this! More info on Funk’n Wild can be found HERE. The event runs from 3 PM – 6 PM at Oskar Blues Liquids and Solids: 1555 S Hover Rd, Longmont, CO 80503. 303-485-9400.
Speaking of sours, The Rackhouse Pub keeps their Sour Month rolling with new sours getting tapped daily throughout the month of July. This week, look for Great Divide Bretty Yeti, Crooked Stave Surette, Odell Shenanigans and AC Golden Apricot Sour hitting the tap lines.
The Rackhouse Pub is located at: 208 S Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80223. 720-507-7824.
Looking for something not sour, but still packed with complexity and flavor? Copper Kettle Brewing’s got ya covered. They’re releasing an Imperial Oak Aged Stout on Saturday, July 21st. This is one of those rare chances to try a nice, big, flavorful stout, right, smack in the middle of summer. Skip the wheat and pils, grab your big boy drinking pants and hit up Copper Kettle for this one.
Stop by at noon for the tapping, stick around for the Harvest Food Truck at 5 PM and music from Pete Stein at 6 PM. Copper Kettle Brewing is located at: 1338 S Valentia St, Denver, CO 80247. 720-443-CKBC.
River North Brewery is getting ready to begin accepting sign-ups for their Locals’ Club. Sign-ups for the club begins on Sunday, July 22nd at 1 PM. The $30 membership includes an exclusive, 16 oz. glass (pictured below), $4 pints all day, every day and a membership card.
Memberships will be sold to the first 50 people on a first come, first served basis. River North Brewery is located at: 2401 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205. 303-296-2617.
Hops & Pie is back with the next round of their Littlest Big Beer Fest on Sunday, July 22nd. There’s a killer lineup of Firestone Walker beers hitting the tap lines at 2 PM. Look for Double Jack (Double IPA), Double DBA (Barrel-Aged Barleywine), Parabola (Barrel-Aged Russian Imperial Stout / my FAV of the bunch!) and more.
This special collection of Firestone Walker beers should not be missed. Hops & Pie is located at: 3920 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212. 303-477-7000.
Lastly, the guys behind TwinHops Brewing want to invite you over to help them brew a batch of beer on Sunday, July 21st. Brad, Scott, Rick and Colin will be firing up the burners to educate, answer questions and share with fans all the details about their upcoming brewery. More info on TwinHops Brewing can be found on yesterday’s blog.
Starting at noon and rolling throughout the day, stop by and taste their beer. Bring your homebrew rig over and brew with them if you’d like! This is being held at: 23891 E Alabama Dr, Aurora, CO 80018.
7/20 Update: The TwinHops brew day has been postponed. Just got word that it won’t be happening on Sunday, July 21st, but will be rescheduled for a later date. I’ll update you when they get a new date scheduled.
That’s it kids! Hope to see you around town this weekend. Have fun, stay cool and follow us on Facebook for more updates throughout the weekend.
Cheers!
Brewtally Insane! 
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