Craft Austin

ABG Winter Issue Release Party January 26, 7pm @ Draught House

2012-01-23T20:57:00.000-08:00

WHEN: Thursday, January 26, 7pm

WHERE: Draught House Pub and Brewery

WHAT: Come celebrate the latest issue of the Austin Beer Guide at our release party. We will also be awarding the winners of our Best of 2011 Readers Poll. If that is not enough (we know what you want, good beer) we will also have be a keg of the Bourbon Barrel Night RYE-der collaboration we brewed with Hops & Grain!

Euro Beer #27: Street Life

2012-01-03T22:35:00.000-08:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Paris:

Guess what? This Euro Beer entry is not about beer. It is about wine. Sort of.

Remember, when I first started this series, I said it was not necessarily ONLY be about beer, but everything we drank (and ate). Here Sofia is picking up a baguette for consumption in the park. We are gonna need some cheese and wine, right? This IS Paris.

We bought the cheese and wine from some corner store. It was Sunday and it was the only place open. FAIL. It was the worst wine we EVER had (still). So terrible. Disgusting.

But I was not gonna let that ruin my day. We corked the bottle and took a little trip to Montmartre. We saw the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur (see top photo), which Christopher Hitchens felt was dreadful. I love it.

Later I finished the bottle with some street cart croque-monsieur. It was my midnight birthday and we were starting things off right. This was still early into our trip and saving money was paramount. I want to visit Paris again and do it right (somewhat).

Jester King First Anniversary Party

2012-01-03T22:28:00.000-08:00

Only one year old and already planning a big party:

We’ve put together a very special beer list for the event that we feel is truly one of a kind. The beer list is a reflection of our philosophy, which is to serve unfiltered, unpasteurized, naturally conditioned beer that embraces nature and the world beyond cultured brewers yeast.

Beer List

Boxer’s Revenge Wild Ale (Casks & Gravity Kegs)
Das Wunderkind! Sour Saison (Casks & Gravity Kegs)
Barrel Aged Sour Black Metal Imperial Stout (Gravity Kegs & Draught)
Barrel Aged Wild Commercial Suicide Dark Mild (Gravity Kegs & Draught)
Wytchmaker Farmhouse Rye IPA (Draught)
Mad Meg Farmhouse Provision Ale (Draught)
Le Petit Prince Farmhouse Table Beer (Draught)
Noble King Hoppy Farmhouse Ale (Draught)
Black Metal Farmhouse Imperial Stout (Draught)
Thrash Metal Farmhouse Strong Ale (Draught)
Bonnie the Rare Berliner Weisse (Draught)

Rare guest draughts, casks and gravity kegs from De Proef, Mikkeller and Ridgeway as well as Bavarian gravity kegs.

Very Special Mystery Guest Keg

Our anniversary party also reflects our philosophy in that we’re using it as a platform to promote other local, artisan businesses. The following local businesses will be in attendance sampling and selling their wares:

Buddha’s Brew
Id Soda
Cuvee Coffee
Texas Tea
Baby Zach’s Hummus
Austin’s Best Soup
Confituras Small batch, locally sourced jams, jellies and preserves
Jaymee Luu Jewelry

We expect a few additional local businesses to join us as well. We’ll keep you posted. For any local, artisans wishing to participate, please e-mail events@jesterkingbrewery.com or call 512-584-9990.

During the party, music and entertainment will be provided by:

The Vintage 15
The Jake Levinson Band
Clyde & Clem’s Whiskey Business
Megan Le Fay (Tarot card reading)

Tickets to our 1st Anniversary Party & Market are $20 and will only be available through online, pre-sale. The price of the ticket includes entrance to and use of the brewery grounds, parking, a spot on any or all of the tours and a souvenir glass. The sizes of our free sample pours will be reduced from our normal tastings so that guests can sample all of the nearly 20 different artisan beers we’ll have available.

Tickets are available for purchase. Congrats JK!

Euro Beer #26: Continental

2011-12-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Paris:

We were frustrated and a bit tired (too much touristing). We did not want to go back to our host’s apartment yet. We decided to get a drink before heading back. Easier said than done. I hate looking for a bar in an unfamiliar country . . . it’s the worst. We settled at the Continental and in the end it was ok, I guess. I have no idea where it is, but don’t worry, there are better places in Paris to get a beer. I had a Kronenburg, which was refreshing. Sofia had a red wine, not a good choice. Always get bottled beer in weird bars.

We left happier.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Sightseeing, look at that bird. What a capture!

Ahhhhh Shit

2011-12-01T12:54:00.001-08:00

An abysmal failure:

I was able to snag a bottle of Abyss at the downtown Whole Foods during my lunch break. Dropped my bag and BOOM! Shit. There were only four left, it would have been wrong to go in and try to buy another bottle. Idiot.

There still might be some stout pouring down the Austin streets. Bring a sponge.

Saint Arnold Austin Scavenger Hunt

2011-12-01T08:52:00.001-08:00

Ok, you have until Sunday to turn in your photos. Get on it. Actually don't, we want to win the kegerator. So don't go around drinking good beers and taking photos of yourself and get invited to a party with a chance to win a kegerator—let us handle it. More info here.

Euro Beer #25: Random Parisian Cafe and a German Beer

2011-11-25T20:59:00.000-08:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Finally out of Brussels and in Paris:

We loved Brussels. We loved Paris. Right off the train we met a friend (Greg), who was working in Paris, for a coffee and a chat. Our meeting spot was some random cafe. It did the trick.

I had a beer. A Warsteiner pilsner I guess. Whatever. Sofia and Greg had coffee. Sofia stole some of my beer. Greg entertained us with stories of his struggles to order a double espresso in French at his local cafe.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Notre Dame later that night. Our host took us for a night driving tour of Paris after feeding us. Too nice.

ND Rose Window (this was actually a few days later).

The next day — spot checkin' at the Louvre. Where is Rowley?

Hopfields Opens Tomorrow, Softly

2011-11-21T20:42:00.000-08:00

Cat is out of the bag. See you tomorrow. And this is what they will have on offer.

Saint Arnold Sailing Santa

2011-11-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

Bombers coming soon. Like Monday.

Euro Beer #24 - Brasserie Cantillon Brouwerij

2011-11-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. One more in Brussels:

Ok, I lied. I forgot about Cantillon. This was where we had our last beer in Brussels. We stopped by on the way to the train station for a tour and some tastings. Love this place.

Empty coolship.

Funkin.

Brasserie Cantillon Brouwerij
Rue Gheude 56
Brussels

Now off to Paris.

Bike pub crawling photos

2011-10-28T14:12:00.001-07:00

Euro Beer #22 & 23: Cafe Rosasse and Host's Home

2011-10-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Let's just wrap up Brussels now:

But we did not want to be disappointed by some dumb tourist trap. Brussels has many of those. So the entire time we were there we searched and searched for a suitable spot. Our last night we in town we threw up our hands and decided we would stop into the next decent joint we saw. Cafe Rosasse was were we ended up. Not bad. Those are my frites.

We both had beers from Charles Quint (Blonde and Rouge). Nice enough.

Cafe Rosasse
Rue haute 1
Brussels

Later we had a Westmalle Dubbel (so good, a constant favorite) and Grimberden Dubbel (ok) at our host’s home. He had left for Argentina (I think) and was kind enough to let us stay on another night without him there. His hospitality was one our most favorite things about Brussels.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

A Sunday Bike Ride with Craft Austin and BeerTown Austin

2011-10-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

I'm really sick of those BTA guys. They keep getting me involved in shit. First it was the Austin Beer Guide. Now they keep roping me into events with them for Austin Beer Week. Dudes, I just want to enjoy the week and drink some beer. LEAVE ME ALONE.

But still, you should come bike with us (and these other things):

SUNDAY 10-23 THE ULTIMATE FANBOY BIKE PUB CRAWL OFF STRIKES MFin’ BACK

Yes, the most popular event (in our opinion) of Austin Beer Week 2010 returns with a lazy, last minute, procrastinatin’, lackadaisical MFin’ attitude. And by lazy, I mean that we’ve trimmed this crawl down to only three stops, yeah, lazy. Less bike, more pub for your money!

3ish PM FLYING SACUER > 4ISH PM DRAUGHT HOUSE (for the MFin’ Beer’ Olympics!) > 6ish PM BILLY’S ON BURNET (time to replenish those calories lost to biking with MFin’ COBRAS)

Bring cash, IDs, bikes, and bad attitudes!

ABG Fall Cover, Release Party Info

2011-10-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

There it is. That is what you look for, starting next week.

The first release of this issue will occur a week from today. We are throwing a party at the Draught House. The party will also serve as the kick off for Hops & Grain, who will be pouring their beer for the first time that night. Buy a Hops & Grain beer and you get a free BeerTown Austin "Selleck" stache pint glass. We will also be giving away free swag we picked up at GABF. People love free stuff. See you on the 26th at 5pm.

Austin Beer Week event page

Recent Beers

2011-10-16T22:04:00.001-07:00

Nothing wild. Been working a lot on fall Austin beer guide. Tons of Oktoberfest.

Draught House 43rd Anniversary Party - THE LIST

2011-10-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

The party is happening Saturday 10/22 from 1-10 PM, kicking off Austin Beer Week (more on that later). Check out this good stuff from DH :

Our 43rd Anniversary Party with a nice selection of craft cellared, soured, barrel aged, cask and otherwise fun beers. Food from Sugar Shack BBQ. Music from the massive vinyl collection of DJ JBL.

[Partial List]

KEG
(512) Whiskey Double Pecan Porter
Brooklyn 2007 Monster
Brooklyn 2009 Black Chocolate Stout
Deschutes Jubel 2010
Deschutes Black Butte XXIII
Draught Folie - a sour we blended at New Belgium
Independence Oak Aged Anniversary Ale
Jester King Wine Barrel Commercial Suicide - gravity keg
Jester King Boxers Revenge Wild Provision Ale - gravity keg
Jester King Das Wunderkind! Wild Table Beer - gravity keg
Jester King Farmhouse Black Metal
Jester King Farmhouse Wytchmaker
Live Oak Old Treehugger
New Belgium Ooh La La
New Belgium Vrienden
Rahr La Grange Saison
Real Ale WT3F?!
Sierra Nevada Brewer's Reserve Grand Cru
Sierra Nevada Ovila Saison
Southern Star Double Dry Hopped Pro-Am Cascadian Dark Ale
Twisted X Senor Viejo
Victory Helios Saison

FIRKINS
(512) IPA dry "hopped" with apricots
Austin Beerworks Fire Eagle IPA
Bear Republic Pete Brown
Bear Republic Racer 5
Great Divide Yeti - with a twist
Green Flash Imperial IPA
Lagunitas Dogtown Pale Ale
Lagunitas Maximus
Left Hand Milk Stout - with a twist
Ranger Creek Jerky Mesquite Smoker Porter - made with real jerky!
Real Ale Lost Gold IPA

Euro Beer #21: A la Mort Subite (Again)

2011-10-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Still tripping around in Brussels:

Golly, still in Brussels? I thought we were done here. Nope, guess not. Back to A la Mort Subite. I love this place.

Sofia had the gueze and I ordered the biggest faro available. Sofia's looks bigger in this photo, but the faro (back) was actually much larger.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

A la Mort Subite
rue Montagne-aux-Herbes Potagères 7
Brussels

Sightseeing.

(512) Brewing 3rd Anniversary Open House

2011-10-04T21:09:00.000-07:00

What: Fall Open House and release of (512) THREE. See below for tons of details.

When: Saturday, October 8, 1pm-5pm

Where: (512) Brewing Co., 407 Radam, F200

Much more info from (512):

Come taste the NEW (512) THREE Belgian Style Tripel

Get two free tastes. Buy a new Limited Edition (512) 3rd Anniversary Glass for $10 and we'll use your new glass as the tasting glass. Cash and checks only please.

Bring one non perishable items to benefit Bastrop county fire victims and receive one additional free beer ticket.

We will be projecting the TEXAS/OU Game

PARKING - PLEASE CARPOOL AND DESIGNATE A DRIVER!!! - PARKING
Please try and park in lots near the brewery before parking in the neighborhood across from the brewery. Suggested lots: Bender Bar (turn north just east of the brewery on Radam - EAT THERE AFTERWARDS! St John’s Lutheran Church (easiest access is from East bound Ben White Access Road) We will also be parking cars perpendicular to Radam in the grassy area near the entrance (see parking attendant). Please do not park illegally in the neighborhood, as cars will be TOWED Please observe our neighbor’s parking signs (this makes up 4 or 5 spots in total)

TAKE THE BUS!
Ride Capital Metro to the SOUTH CONGRESS TRANSIT CENTER and walk west on Radam
http://www.capmetro.org/planner/

Children are welcome, but they must be supervised at all times.

Texas Wins 4 Medals at GABF, 3 for Austin

2011-10-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

GABF was fun. Duh, right? It was really fun for these guys:

Congratulations to NXNW, Austin Beerworks, Uncle Billy's and Humperdink's. Well deserved.

Small Gloat

2011-09-26T18:29:00.000-07:00

Austin Monthly included Austin Beer Guide in October's HOT LIST! I think it's fitting we are in the "Beauty" Issue. I've never seen a more beautiful group of dudes.

More real blogging later. I promise.

TCBF - Special Brew Tapping Schedule

2011-09-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day. The Texas Craft Brewers Festival! There will be plenty of beer to be had, but below is the limited, SPECIAL beer list and tapping times. Plan accordingly:

1:00 pm
Ranger Creek Brett-Barrel La Bestia Aimable
(Belgian-style dark strong ale)-Aged for 6 months in oak with 3 strains of Brettanomyces sp. giving characteristics of leather, fig, oak, tobacco, cherry, and subtle earthy horse blanket. 9.4%

1:30 pm
(512) Pale - Dry hopped with Apollo - cask-conditioned firkin - 5.8% ABV

2:00 pm
Real Ale Empire- IPA aged in American oak wine barrels for seven months - ABV 6.6%

2:30 pm
Jester King Black Metal Imperial Stout (whiskey/oak)
Pitch black with huge notes of chocolate, roast, coffee, burnt malt and alcohol balanced by aggressive hop bitterness. Cask-conditioned firkin with oak cubes soaked in Tennessee whiskey. 10.4% ABV

3:00 pm
Live Oak Wet Hop Oaktoberfest - cask-conditioned firkin - 5.8% ABV

3:30 pm
St. Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11 - Double IPA - cask-conditioned firkin - 8.9% ABV

4:00 pm
Austin Beerworks Mr. Falcon - Yipee, Ki, Yay. cask-conditioned firkin - 5.9% ABV

4:30 pm
Real Ale Morgul Ale- Another recent addition to the Mysterium Verum line. Our Porter (sans coffee) aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels for 7 months - ABV 5.6%

5:00 pm
(512) Double IPA - cask-conditioned firkin - 9% ABV

5:30 pm
Jester King Wytchmaker Rye IPA (whiskey/oak) -Wytchmaker Rye IPA cask-conditioned firkin with oak cubes soaked in Tennessee whiskey - 7.0% ABV

Euro Beer #20: Westvleteren 12

2011-09-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Still tripping around in Brussels:

Beer has come a long way (even since 2007). Westvleteren 12 was back then, and even now mostly, considered the best beer in the world. I bought one in Brussels. I should have bought more. But again, we were still being cheap; it was still early in our trip.

We drank it at our host's apartment. It was good. The photo, not so good.

Here is some other stuff we did the following day:

Coffee and croissants at Gusti D'Italia. It was quite pleasant until a delivery truck came up and idled by us for 5 minutes. That was not so pleasant.

Then we went walking in the forest. I was the tour guide.

On our walk we scarfed some of our Pierre Marcolini chocolates (do not click this link unless you want an insane web experience). So fancy.

Then Oups for soups. This place is awesome. Definitely go here if you are ever in Brussels.

My soup. I got a big bowl. Sofia got two small bowls. I win.

Cheap Beer at CM

2011-09-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

You know the deal. It's your favorite local beer deal. This seems to pop up more and more. But it probably doesn't. Go stock up.

BEER SALE!
10% Off Beer Purchases $5.00-$9.99
20% Off Beer Purchases $10.00-$24.99
25% Off Beer Purchases $25 and Up

Brewtopia at Central Market: WESTGATE

2011-09-07T16:42:00.001-07:00

As promised, below are the Brewtopia events happening at the Westgate Central Market:

Wednesday, September 14, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Breckenridge Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Todd Usry, Brew Master
Cost: Free

Thursday, September 15, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Woodchuck Cider, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Pyramid & Magic Hat Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Boston Beer Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Friday, September 16, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Real Ale Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Saturday, September 17, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Brewery Ommegang, Sampling in the Beer Department
Representative
Cost: Free

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative Cost: Free

Sunday, September 18, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Rahr & Sons Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Fritz Rahr, Owner and Brew Master
Cost: Free

Tuesday, September 20, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. New Belgium Brewing, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Wednesday, September 21, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Lagunitas Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Thursday, September 22, 2011
4 – 6 p.m. Alamo Beer Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Eugene Simor, Founder and Owner
Cost: Free

4 – 7 p.m. Original Sin Cider, Sampling in the Beer Department
Gidon Coll, Owner
Cost: Free

Friday, September 23, 2011
4 – 6 p.m. Brooklyn Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

4 – 7 p.m. Original Sin Cider, Sampling in the Beer Department
Gidon Coll, Owner
Cost: Free

Saturday, September 24, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Harpoon Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Napa Smith Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Don Barkley, Brew Master
Cost: Free

Monday, September 26, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Real Ale Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Brad Farbstein, Owner and Brew Master
Cost: Free

Brewtopia 2011: NORTH LAMAR

2011-09-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

Brewtopia is back at Central Market, well it will be next week. September 14-27. Nothing mind melting for beer nerds, but some solid events lined up. Obviously geared towards the average CM shopper. Duh. Still, worth checking out. Below are the events happening at the North Lamar location. Get yr calender out and make your plans. I'll post Westgate events later:

Wednesday, September 14, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Woodchuck Cider, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Pyramid & Magic Hat Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Thursday, September 15, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Breckenridge Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Todd Usry, Brew Master
Cost: Free

Boston Beer Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Friday, September 16, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. North Coast Brewing Company, Beer & Cheese pairing in the Beer Department
Tom Allen, Founder and Vice President
Cost: Free

6:30 – 9 p.m. A Night in Germany: Featuring Traditional Recipes Paired with Beers and Ales, Cooking Class in the Cooking School
Cindy Haenel, CM Cooking School Instructor
Cost: $45

Saturday, September 17, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Rahr & Sons Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Fritz Rahr, Owner and Brew Master
Cost: Free

Sunday, September 18, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Brewery Ommegang, Sampling in the Beer Department
Representative
Cost: Free

Mendocino & Butte Creek Brewing, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Smoke & Beer, Cooking Class in the Cooking School
Amanda Wright, CM Cooking School Instructor
Jeremy Wright, Grillmaster
Cost: $50

Monday, September 19, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. New Belgium Brewing, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Tuesday, September 20, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Terence Sullivan, Brew Master
Cost: Free

Wednesday, September 21, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Lagunitas Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

Thursday, September 22, 2011
4 – 6 p.m. Brooklyn Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Regional Representative
Cost: Free

4 – 7 p.m. Original Sin Cider, Sampling in the Beer Department
Gidon Coll, Owner
Cost: Free

Friday, September 23, 2011
4 – 7 p.m. Harpoon Brewery, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Local Representative
Cost: Free

6:30 – 9 p.m. Easy Indian Favorites Paired with Ales & Beers, Cooking Class in the Cooking School
Chaya Rao, Vegetarian Chef & Food Blogger
Cost: $50

Saturday, September 24, 2011
1 – 4 p.m. Real Ale Brewing Company, Sampling in the Beer Department
Brad Farbstein, Owner and Brew Master
Cost: Free

6:30 – 9 p.m. Brewtopia with Real Ale, Cooking Class in the Cooking School
Scot Loranc, CM Cooking School Instructor
Cost: $50

Monday, September 26, 2011
6:30 – 9 p.m. Cooking with Beer, Cooking Class in the Cooking School
Christina Lee and Amanda Wright, CM Cooking School Instructors
Cost: $45

GABF Pep Rally

2011-09-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

I'm going to the Great American Beer Festival at the end of this month. To get the masses excited, we have been running a series of short interviews over at Austin Beer Guide. We are calling it GABF Pep Rally. Check it out. More to come throughout the month.

Open the Taps Austin Launch

2011-08-30T06:39:00.001-07:00

WHAT: The Launch of Open The Taps in Austin

WHEN: Saturday, October 15 · 2:00pm - 8:00pm

WHERE: Draught House Pub and Brewery, 4112 Medical Pkwy

More from Open the Taps:

Help celebrate the launch of Open The Taps in Austin!Open The Taps is a grassroots, non-profit consumer advocacy group representing craft beer enthusiasts in Texas. Our goal is to change laws and regulations surrounding the craft beer industry in our state.

Come out to Draught House Pub & Brewery to chat with the board members of Open The Taps and join the movement to make Texas more craft beer friendly!

There are two membership levels available:
Base Membership: $35/year and includes a tshirt
100 4 100 (Austin): $100/year and includes a tshirt and inclusion in our focus groups that help determine the agenda, as well as invites to special events!

We take cash and credit card payments to sign up for membership.

http://www.openthetaps.org

NXNW 12th Anniversary

2011-08-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

From ABG:

Image: NXNW

WHAT: Celebrate North by Northwest’s 12th anniversary on September 4th with live music from Warren Hood and Jeremy Steding, entertainment by Nate the Great Balloon Artist and of, course, birthday cake! Brewers Kevin Roark and Don Thompson will be tapping two firkin casks of Green Menace IPA at 7 p.m. In addition there will be a limited release of North by Northwest’s favorite seasonal beers: Tu Helen Bock, Czech Pilsner, Summer Ale, Belgo Ale, Wit and Blonde Ale.

WHEN: Sunday, September 4. Jeremy Steding will begin playing at 5 p.m. Warren Hood will perform from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

WHERE: North by Northwest Restaurant and Brewery (NXNW), 10010 Capital of TX Hwy N

COST: $5 suggested donation benefiting SafePlace

Beer Dork Night: Belgium

2011-08-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

From Aviary:

Increase Your Alcohol Awareness with
“Beer Dork Night: Belgium”

Aviary Lounge to Host an Evening with Beer & Food Pairings

Austin, Texas (August 23, 2011) – Austin boutique shop, Aviary Lounge & Decor, presents another creative occasion with their latest event “Beer Dork Night: Belgium” on Thursday, Sept 1 at 8 pm.

The lounge features a flight of six different Belgium beers from the U.S and beyond as well as great food to match. Limited seating will be available.

To reserve a spot, please email marco@aviarydecor.com, and the event is be $40 per person.

Aviary is located at 2110 S. Lamar, Austin and is open Tuesday to Saturday 12am to 12am, Sunday 3pm to 10pm. For more information call 916-4445 or go online to aviarylounge.com.

Euro Beer #19: La Perroquet

2011-08-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Muckin' around in Brussels:

Stumbled upon this place for lunch. Looked nice, half full—good sign for a relaxed lunch. I had a Leffe Bruin, zesty and medium bodied. That's what I wrote in my little notebook. All beer reviews should be that terse. Sofia, tired of beer (silly girl), had a diet coke.

Sofia had a pressed pita of mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes, ham, greens. She would have liked a side of fries, chips or salad, but it was good anyway. I had a spicy chicken pita with cheese and greens. The pitas were good, but a bit overpriced, after all we were used to the giant suvlakis from Mr. Falafel in Park Slope. But the building in which the restaurant is housed is an Art Nouveau masterpiece. That was worth the pita price.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Le Perroquet
Rue Watteeu 31
Brussels

Some church.

RealTail II, with Real Ale and Freetail

2011-08-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

From ABG. Although, you probably already knew about it:

WHAT: FreeTail II - A collaboration event with Real Ale and Freetail

WHEN: August 27, 2011. Doors open at 11:30am.

WHERE: Freetail Brewing Co., 4035 N Loop 1604 W. Suite 105. San Antonio

Intense. Sounds like a good time. Tons of good beer. Bring yr wallet. Don't worry, surely it's worth it (not to mention they will also have sample sizes for sale). I really want to try that Collaboration Beer (“untraditional double wit using locally sourced nopalitos (cactus pads), a mélange of four spices and agave nectar”). Good news for GABFers though:

If you can’t make it to the festival but will be headed to GABF this year, we’ll have the Collaboration Beer available at the Texas Craft Brewers Guild booth.

Middleton Brewing's Grand Opening

2011-08-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

From ABG:

Saturday was Middelton Brewing's grand opening party. We went. We drank beers. We drove back. But we will return for sure.

We stopped at the Barber Shop first for a couple pints of their Mullet Mild. Solid stuff. Get out there soon. Such a good bar. You can order a pizza too. We had the Farmer John.

Then we booked it down to Wimberley, for Middleton's grand opening party. Just head south on 12 from Dripping Springs. Go through downtown Wimberley and you are there. You can't miss it.

Midway through the party this is what they had on offer (house-beer-wise). Impressive!

And the beer was good. Really good. This is the Opal (see above). Standouts were the Garnet, Black Lab Porter and the Imperial Red (BOBCAT). Whose sippy cup?

Middleton had a great turnout. I think—it seemed busy. Judging by the furry pack of canines roaming the bar, I am assuming they are dog friendly (if that matters to you). So grab yr kin, grab yr mutts and zip down to Wimberley. Dennis, brewer/owner, said next week's beer list will look totally different. He knows how to spark the interest of a beer nerd.

Middleton Brewing Grand Opening Reminder

2011-08-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's happening on Saturday. Remember?

WHAT: Middleton Brewing Grand Opening
WHEN: Saturday, August 20 · 12:00pm – 7:00pm
WHERE: Middleton Brewing 9595 Ranch Road 12 Wimberley, TX

Saint Arnold's Got Wood

2011-08-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I just wrote that headline. Anyway, they posted this photo on their facebook page yesterday. What beer is going in there? Who knows. Stay tuned.

Euro Beer #18 - Delirium Café

2011-08-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Muckin' around in Brussels:

Euro Beer #18 - Delirium Café

Delirium Café can be hard to find. But if you are really down, you will find it. When we were, smoking was still allowed inside, therefore it was super smoky downstairs. We chose to sit outside, in the alley. This place was packed, mostly young people and crazy locals. I think smoking is banned now. You can now sit safely downstairs with the masses. This is a must stop for Brussels. Not my favorite bar, but definitely worth checking out.

We split a Tremens and a Nocturnum to begin with.

I also had a Triple Moine. All the beers were terrific and in proper glassware (a nice bonus).

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Delirium Café
Impasse de la Fidélité, 4A
Brussels

Austin Beer Guide Award Cap on BrewskiMe

2011-08-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

From ABG:

I don't have an iphone, but if I did I would definitely be using Brewski.Me. You should get it. And if you do, make sure you shoot for the stars and earn an Austin Beer Guide Award Cap. Drink at least one beer from each Austin brewery (including Real Ale (I think. If not, who cares, you drank a delicious Real Ale)) and you will be rewarded with a cap.

(512) Brewing's Third Anniversary Party - Early October

2011-08-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

I know, we have been slacking. Sorry, very busy 'round these parts. But never fear, we plan to start rolling out some fresh new TEXAS GABF coverage later this month. The big news of the week is that (512) Brewery has postponed their third anniversary party. We are not the only staying busy. BA can be very informative—unofficial:

What: (512) Brewing's Third Anniversary Party - including the release of (512) THREE, a tripel (fitting)
When: Early October
Where: 407 Radam, Austin

Buy the Austin Beerworks Keep the Mustache Glass Night at Billy’s on Burnet

2011-08-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, is that really the name of the event? It's a mouthfull: Buy the Austin Beerworks Keep the Mustache Glass Night at Billy’s on Burnet. But it does tell you everthing you need to know:

WHAT: One of a kind cask from Austin Beerworks—with the beer you get a free moutsache glass to add to your collection. The beer is called Mr. Falcon—part Fire Eagle and part Black Thunder dry hopped with Amarillo and Centinnial hops. Folks from ABW and BTA will be on hand to celebrate.

WHEN: Thursday, August 11 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

WHERE: Billy's On Burnet

RSVP here.

Brooklyn Oktoberfest Gets a Facelift

2011-08-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

And guess what . . . I don't like it. Surprise, surprise. Come on, they had a good thing going. The colors they are using now are atrocious. They hurt my eyes. Luckily, the beer is still good. I love it, been drinking it since my early beer blogging days.

Old.

New. The colors are worse in real life. The silver is reflective. Ugh.

What is really weird, the Brooklyn Brewery website still has the old design featured. Apparently the web dept likes the old design too.

Things change, get over it. Right. Central Market has six packs now.

Calling All Austin (and Texas) Breweries - Good Food Awards

2011-08-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

From ABG:

Dear Texas Brewers,

We are proud of our beer here in Texas. That's why we devote so much time to thinking about it, writing about it, yapping about it and of course drinking it. We love our brewers and the beer they make. You all deserve every award they can get. So when our friends out West sent us some info about the Good Food Awards, we knew we had to pass it your way:

The Good Food Awards celebrate the kind of food we all want to eat: tasty, authentic and responsibly produced. We grant awards to outstanding American food producers and the farmers who provide their ingredients. We host an annual Awards Ceremony and Marketplace at the iconic Ferry Building in San Francisco to honor the Good Food Award recipients who push their industries towards craftsmanship and sustainability while enhancing our agricultural landscape and building strong communities.

Brewers, this is all you. Interested in entering your wares? First, read the criteria.

You match up with that? Then enter your beer and make us (really you, but we will be too) proud.

Check out last year's winners. We need some TX on that list.

Love,

ABG

Neighborhood BOCK Party with Shiner and Birds Barbershop

2011-08-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

Remember the news of Shiner and Birds hooking up? They totally hooked up. In the press release they said:

Further invitation details will be included on a free koozie that will accompany all Shiner beers served at Birds Barbershops starting later this month.

Well, they were not lying. I stopped into Birds for a haircut this past Sunday. I was starting a new job on Tuesday and I needed to look sharp. This was my first time getting my mop cut at Birds. I must say, it is kind of awkward trying to enjoy a beer while someone is trying to cut your hair. There were wide gaps of time between sips. That koozie worked brilliantly though. And BAM, right there on the koozie it said I was invited to a Neighborhood BOCK Party!

WHEN: August 18, 7-11pm
WHERE: Birds on S. Congress, 1902 S. Congress Ave.

Cost? Who knows, I'm bringing my koozie as a ticket.

Flying Saucer Fall Fest Details

2011-08-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

From FS:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
. . .

Flying Saucer Hosts Fourth Annual Fall Beer Festival

Austin, Texas, Aug. 2, 2011 – Flying Saucer will host its Fourth Annual Fall Beer Festival on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 2 to 9:30 p.m. at Triangle Park, located at 4600 Guadalupe St., directly behind the Saucer’s 815 W. 47th St. location.

Flying Saucer’s Fall Beer Festival will feature five beer tasting tents each with the featured brews carefully selected by the Flying Saucer’s own resident beer guru, Keith Schlabs, and Austin Flying Saucer general manager, Ted Rowell.

“Austin has an amazing craft beer scene that allows us to really showcase some rare and unique brews during this festival,” said Ted Rowell, Flying Saucer general manager. “With over 40 different craft beers on-hand for this event, we know that our customers will love sampling and experiencing some great brews.”

Rare and limited release beers will be tapped at staggered times throughout the day and will be announced via Twitter on the Austin Flying Saucer’s account, @FlyingSaucerAus, on the day of the festival. Festival-goers will be able to sample beers at tents with names coinciding with the beer selections available inside, such as East Coast, West Coast, Texas, Captain’s Picks and the Out of This World. Beer brats, kraut and Bavarian pretzels will also be available for purchase.

Tickets will be available for $25 if purchased online prior to the event and $30 at the door. Online ticket purchasing is available until Sept. 22, after which, ticket prices increase to $30 and will then be available for purchase at the Flying Saucer or at the door on the day of the festival. A ticket purchase allots guests a tasting card that is good for 10 samples of the more than 40 festival beers, some of which will be rare tappings available the day of the festival only, as well as a commemorative Fall Beer Festival tasting glass. A selection of full pour beers will also be available for purchase at the festival.

Spoken City Featured Local Blogger

2011-08-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

I was featured this weekend on Spoken City. Check out my amazing interview answers. Thanks Spoken City.

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator

2011-07-28T07:15:00.000-07:00

Spooky. Who still has some of this from last year? Wish I had saved one. I'm horrible at saving beers.

h/t: beernews.org

Bummer: Freetail Suspends Plans for Houston Brewpub

2011-07-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

You've probably seen this already today:

For
Immediate Release

SAN ANTONIO-BASED BREWERY SUSPENDS PLANS FOR SECOND LOCATION

(July 27, 2011) San Antonio, TX – Having previously announced expansion into the Houston market, Freetail Brewing Co. will announce the indefinite suspension of plans for a second location — citing concerns over access to capital.

“As I moved forward with the Freetail Houston project, I began to run into an increasing level of resistance in capital markets. A brewpub is a good project for downtown Houston, but the deal is simply not there for me at this time,” explained Freetail Founder & CEO, Scott Metzger. “When we announced the project on May 17, we also stated there were financial considerations to be addressed. Those considerations are ultimately what put this project on hold indefinitely, and no other reason. To move forward with the project at this time would be irresponsible and an injustice to my company and the City of Houston.

“For now my focus will be to continue growing our successful original location, which has internal expansion needs of its own, and moving forward in the battle for fair reform of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, as it relates to the activities of our state’s brewpubs and breweries,” added Metzger.

Freetail Brewing Co. is founded on the pursuit of creating exciting, innovative and unique world class beer and beer-centric cuisine. We embrace the laid back and fun-loving Texas culture and set out to create products that mirror the lifestyle of our diverse and rapidly growing community. We believe in promoting an increased appreciation of craft beer and its responsible enjoyment. We believe in going above and beyond customer expectations not only through our products, but also through exceptional customer service. We believe in providing a dining and leisure experience unmatched in the local community. And in case you didn’t get it the first time… we believe in having fun.

For more information visit www.freetailbrewing.com.

Grand Openings for Middleton and Pecan Street

2011-07-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

From ABG.

Looking for some fun August road trips close to Austin. Check out these two grand openings (now, that is an intro!):

WHAT: Middleton Brewing Grand Opening
WHEN: Saturday, August 20 · 12:00pm - 7:00pm
WHERE: Middleton Brewing 9595 Ranch Road 12 Wimberley, TX

From Middleton:

Please join us in celebrating our Grand Opening on Saturday August 20th. We will have special one time only beers and free appetizers . We specialize in Belgian Style ales we brew here in the Hill Country, also some hoppy west coast pale ales and IPA's. With a celection of other micro brews on tap and in bottles.

RSVP on Facebook.

WHAT: Pecan Street Brewing Grand Opening
WHEN: Saturday, August 27
WHERE: Pecan Street Brewing, 106 East Pecan Drive, Johnson City, TX 78636

Thanks to Xavier Alesmith for the tip. Follow Pecan Street's Facebook for more info.

Rogness Brewing Co.

2011-07-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

Add another one for Austin(ish)! Welcome to the fray Rogness.

Euro Beer #17 - Arcadi Café

2011-07-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Still in Brussels:

Euro Beer #17 - Arcadi Café

Our host suggested this restaurant. Good, yet inexpensive food in the center of the city. Tourist area, but there seemed to be a lot of locals. That is my chicken and fries, decent, if not a little dry. Here the beer came in handy.

This was Sofia's quiche. So sensible Sofia.

And now the moment you've been waiting for . . . the beers. Sofia had an Affligem Blonde and I had an Orval. I win. Nothing too special here, as they are both available in the US. But they were great beers to quaff with the food.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Arcadi Café
Rue d'Arenbergstraat, 1
Brussels

Grand Place at night.

Lone Star Giving Away Land

2011-07-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

Originally posted on ABG.

Free land! How is that for a promotion. Listen, we are not snobby enough to say we don't drink Lone Star. We mostly cover Austin (and TX) CRAFT beer, but we enjoy a Lone Star from time to time. There is a time and place for almost any beer. But really, you don't see no craft breweries giving away LAND! (I think that girl would be your neighbor. She can't wait for you to move in.) Lone Star does and all they ask for is some personal information, confidential of course.

They even ask you to choose a favorite band. None of those are my favorite. Actually, I've only heard about Big & Rich from that list, so I chose them.

And what do you know, I am a winner! I feel special.

Saint Arnold Santo

2011-07-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

Remember this label? I just got an email from a reliable informant, let's just say his name rhymes with Tank:

. . . new beer that we are rolling out September 1. It is called Santo, and is unique in that it has its' own look and does not fall into the traditional Saint Arnold line up as far as appearance. It is a dark kolsch style beer. It will be available (all at the same time) in 1/2 barrels, 1/6 barrels, and 12 oz bottles (4/6 cases). It will come in at around 4.90% ABV.

Can't wait to try it.

Baird / Ishii / Stone Japanese Green Tea IPA

2011-07-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

Baird / Ishii / Stone Japanese Green Tea IPA Collaboration from stonebrew on Vimeo.

We are apparently getting it. Sounds good.

Oh we are getting this one too:

Jason Fields & Kevin Sheppard / Tröegs / Stone Chocolate Cherry Stout from stonebrew on Vimeo.

Black Star Co-op's Waterloo

2011-07-22T10:05:00.001-07:00

It's summer. Have you noticed? No? Well, wake up, it's been over 100 degrees for the past 30something days (or something like that). Summer beers are made for this is the weather. Black Star's new irrational beer is called Waterloo, a “sour peach wheat ale.” It was brewed for the summer and most likely you've had it already. But if you have not (or even if you have), Jeff Young recently posted about the birth of the beer:

We thought about what that could be…light, tart, easy-to-drink with subtle flavor and elegance. From there, I wanted to experiment with souring beers and using peaches as the subtle yet complex flavor.

Jeff also explains the process of sour mashing. Interesting read.

JK's Van

2011-07-22T10:04:00.001-07:00

This is just the start. This is fun. Beer should be fun.

Euro Beer #16 - Le Bier Circus

2011-07-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. Still in Brussels:

Euro Beer #16 - Le Bier Circus

Clean and modern. What a place. Good beers too.

I had to hit up this place after reading about it on BeerAdvocate. It was kind of a hike uphill in the rain, but it was worth it. The crowd was sparse, atmosphere chill. Perfect place to enjoy a beer, unlike that Delirium madhouse. I had a Kapittel Watou and Sofia had a La Chouffe. Both enjoyable, though I took time to warm up to my Watou.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Le Bier Circus
rue de l'Enseignement, 57
Brussels

This guy.

3rd Annual Go Texan Beer Week at Opal Divine's

2011-07-19T18:23:00.000-07:00

WHAT: 3rd Annual Go Texan Beer Week

WHEN: Monday, July 25 at 11:00am - July 31 at 11:30pm

WHERE: All Opal Divine's Locations

Damn, so much happening lately. Not complaining, just saying. Details from Opals:

Opal's 3rd Annual Go Texan Beer Week benefits Capital Area Food Bank. All Texas Craft Beer all week featuring a different Texas brewery each day.

Monday - Jester King Brewing Company
Tuesday - 512 Brewing Company
Wednesday - Live Oak Brewing Company
Thursday - Real Ale Brewing Company
Friday - Independence Brewing Company

Who has the best Texas Beer Nose in Austin? Do you? Daily winners of the blind Texas sampler taste off at all 3 Opal's will compete for the title of "Best Texas Beer Snob" on Saturday, July 30th at Opal Divine's Freehouse at 7pm. Follow us on twitter (@opaldivines) for announcements of special tappings all week. First hint is; you'll definitely want to be at Marina Monday night for firkin double hoppin' witchin' good time!

Belgian Beer Week

2011-07-19T06:05:00.000-07:00

It's already started . . .

DRAUGHT HOUSE

Tuesday- Chimay Blue- glass with beer purchase
Wednesday- Ommegang Witte- glass with beer and free cheese sample
Thursday- St. Bernardus ABT 12- glass with beer purchase
Friday- Duvel Green- Free glass and cheese with beer
Saturday- Lindemans Framboise- Free glass with beer

FLYING SAUCER

Mon - Timmermans Glass Night
Tue - Blanche de Bruxelles Glass Night
Wed - Duvel Glass Night
Thu - Chimay Glass Night
Fri - Maredsous Glass Night
Sat - Hopus Glass Night

. . . putting tons of cool Belgian stuff on tap as the week progresses and more holes open up. Delirium Tremens, Houblon Chouffe, St Bernardus 12 and 8, Maredsous (Tripel, Blonde and Brune), Kwak, La Trappe (formerly Koningshoeven) Quad, BarBar . . .

7/24 - Adelbert’s Public Tasting

GINGER MAN

July 21st - 7pm
Come celebrate 180 years of Belgian Independence! Free glassware and swag with purchase of Chimay!

Austin to Saint Arnold Brewery Bus Trip

2011-07-15T06:23:00.001-07:00

Road trip! From Saint Arnold:

Once again it's time for another trip down to Houston to see Texas' oldest craft brewery! If you have not been to the new brewery, now is your chance. Saturday, August 20, at 10:30 am we will meet at The Flying Saucer and depart at 11 am sharp. We will get there at the end of our regular Saturday tour and enjoy some cold Saint Arnold. Then we will open the iPub for lunch and more tasty beverages. We will leave the brewery at 5 pm and return to Austin at 8 pm.

If you wanna ride, tickets are $40 and you can buy them here.

Two Beer Movies

2011-07-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

Beer movies are the new beer blogs, someday everyone will make one.

Watch entire Beertickers movie here.

REASON: We Can Sell Our Beer in Texas, but We Can't Tell You Where

2011-07-13T09:43:00.001-07:00

I don't often write about beer laws. Mainly because it's kind of boring — writing and reading. Plus, there are others out there who are much better at writing that stuff. Don't worry, I'm not gonna write about it here, just passing along something to read.

h/t: Austin Beerworks

Independence/Judge's Hill Dinner

2011-07-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hold on, I am trying to find my notes on this dinner . . .

Ok, I'm back. This was not your average beer dinner. It was a battle, a duel betwen Chef Jonathan Gelman of The Driskill Grill vs. Chef Rob Snow of Judges' Hill Restaurant. And it all benefited the Sustainable Food Center. All the food was Wild Game supplied by Broken Arrow Ranch. The dinner consisted of three rounds with a dish from each chef — each paired with an Independence beer. We voted on our favorite dishes/pairings. It was blind, RED plates vs. BLACK plates.

ROUND 1

Wild Boar Belly w/ Risotto Cakes, Smoked Walnut Vinaigrette, Pickled Local Vegetables and Bootlegger Brown
That belly was great. I really enjoyed the pickled vegetables except they were too small, diced beyond belief, annoying. Overall the food overpowered the beer, not a great pairing.

Buttermilk Fried Quail, "Stash" BBQ Sauce and Stash IPA
The fried quail was perfect, the egg on top a bit too decadent. BBQ was tasty. With the Stash, this was a better pairing than first plate.

My Stash. You think as a beer blogger I would have taken more photos of the beer. Sorry. But this one was just so pretty.

ROUND 2

Venison Steak, Jalapeno Cotija Potato Croquette, Raspberry Jasperilla Demi-glace and Jasperilla Old Ale.
Venison was venisony and cooked well. Reminded me of my childhood (I was raised by wolves). The croquette was light and fluffy or as I wrote in my notes - NICE. All paired nicely with Jasperilla.

Antelope Grilled, Chilled & Rood Awakenings and Rood.
Saying grilled antelope is not enough for this plate, it had three kinds of antelope meat. It was a meat orgy. The jerky was my favorite part. Again, second dish was a better pairing in this round.

ROUND 3

Gold Deluxe Angel Food Cake with Grilled Fredericksburg Peaches & Merlitons and Gold Deluxe.
Merlitons? I had to bing that. This may be the worst photo I've ever taken, my apologies. I liked the fruit, hated the angel food cake, but I've always hated angel food cake.

Wild Boar Smores and Gold Deluxe.
This was easily the most anticipated plate of the night after everyone read the menus. And it was good, really good. Made with boar bacon. I did not vote for it though. Putting bacon on something is cheating, everyone is gonna vote for bacon.

Overall, I enjoyed the food from the RED chef better and the pairings from the BLACK chef. Guess what, I forgot who was red and who was black and who won. So, bing that if you really want to know the results.

Thanks to Independence Brewing for having us out and also to Adam for giving Austin Beer Guide a nice shout out during the dinner (unexpected and appreciated)!

Austin Homebrew Supply 20th Anniversary Party

2011-07-12T12:18:00.001-07:00

From their FB Event:

Cold Beer, Live Music. Wyeast and White Labs reps on hand to answer your burning questions and/or soak up your praise.

You'll want to bring some money for food and a pint glass. In addition, it is a tax free day for you on everything in the store! Don't worry, we will still pay the taxes we are supposed to, but you won't have to.

Euro Beer #15 - A la Mort Subite

2011-07-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Brussels:

Euro Beer #15 - A la Mort Subite

A la Mort Subite. If you are going to go to one cafe in Brussels, this is definitly it.

I mean, just look at this place. When we were there in 2007, smoking was still permitted inside. Now, I think, it's been banned. Even nicer.

Our first visit I had a large Faro, loved it. Sofia had a blanche. Ok, the beers are not the best you will find in Brussels, but add the atmosphere and history — boom — great beer experience. Still, loved that Faro. They have food too, but we only went there for beers.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

A la Mort Subite
rue Montagne-aux-Herbes Potagères 7
Brussels

Wikio Beer Blog Rankings - July

2011-07-07T19:54:00.001-07:00

Wikio sent me these beer blog rankings. I wonder how many people they send them to before they get to me. A peek at the top 30 for July:

1 Brookston Beer Bulletin
2 Beervana
3 The New School
4 Brewpublic
5 A Good Beer Blog
6 The Stone Blog
7 Appellation Beer: Beer From a Good Home
8 Washington Beer Blog
9 The Daily Pull
10 Drink With The Wench
11 It's Pub Night
12 Seen Through a Glass
13 Oakshire Brewing
14 KC Beer Blog
15 The Session Beer Project™
16 The Not So Professional Beer Blog
17 The Brew Lounge
18 San Diego Beer Blog
19 Craft Austin
20 Beeronomics
21 Brewer's Log (Blog)
22 The Potable Curmudgeon
23 BetterBeerBlog
24 Beer at 6512
25 Hoosier Beer Geek
26 Musings Over a Pint
27 Brewed For Thought
28 Seattle Beer News
29 Top Fermented
30 Beer in Baltimore
Ranking made by Wikio

(512) Brewing Now Offering Private Tours

2011-07-06T14:25:00.000-07:00

From (512):

. . . When you check in, you will receive coupons good for 3 free 4oz. tastes of your choice of (512) brew. With a purchase of a (512) logo pint glass for $10, you'll get the glass filled 3 times and be able to take it home at the end of the tour.

Additional glassware and t-shirts will be available for purchase, and, of course, don't forget to tip your tour guide. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your tour time and have your driver's license available. Sampling beer is limited to tour ticket holders and persons 21 years or older only.

Cash only. Please designate a driver. Designated drivers receive a free t-shirt or logo pint glass!

Oh Brother

2011-07-06T13:25:00.001-07:00

I'm not saying anything bad about this brewery-in-the-making. I'm afraid they would beat me up. I hope they make good beer, but really, Hey Babe? But I guess I am a supposed to support everything local . . . Yeah Local (Don't punch me)!

Off

2011-07-05T13:20:00.001-07:00

Sorry for lack of posts . . . We are on vacation till Sunday. I might post some if I find a wifi signal here and there.

Euro Beer #14 - Brussels Skatepark

2011-06-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Brussels:

Euro Beer #14 - Brussels Skatepark

Food and beer (and wine) was big part of our euro trip, but I also tried to squeeze in at least a few minutes of skateboarding in each city. Brussels has a skatepark pretty much in the dead center of town. It is small and not very interesting, but still fun. Before hitting the park we picked up some Jupilers and sandwich stuff. Jupiler ain't the best beer, but it is a good skate beer. Any maco beer in a tall can is a skate beer—basically, mostly water. And it washed down that crappy sandwich perfectly.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Beer-n-sandwich-fueled mediocre skateboarding.

It was gloomy most of the time in Brussels, but it didn't bother us.

Twisted X Siesta

2011-06-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Keg collar label for Twisted X's Siesta just popped up on Beernews.org. I love a prickly pear, just hope this one is not going to be suupper sweet.

My worries apparently are for naught:

This is a new concept beer Tex Mex lager infused with real prickly pear - the color is definitely unique, but it's all beer with a light citrus back flavor (nothing sweet about this one) - coming soon !

Central Market Beer Sale

2011-06-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

Stock up for July 4th and beyond.

Adelbert's Brewery Update

2011-06-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

Adelbert's Brewery recently posted some new photos of their growing brewery. As always, follow the action here.

The bottling line.

Whip In Gets a Brewhouse

2011-06-29T06:06:00.001-07:00

From Twisted X.

Circle Brewing's EPIC Open House

2011-06-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

RSVP at their FB event page.

Beer and Skateboarding

2011-06-24T06:53:00.000-07:00

Beer and Skateboarding are my two favorite things. I was gonna rip this off and do it myself, but then realized I probably can't do six tricks anymore. I got about three and I love em. Also, after two beers I couldn't ollie up a curb (maybe a small one). Ok before I lose you on this skate talk, watch this. Oh, and this is irresponsible drinking, but I'm ok with that. Sometimes:

I love Gravette.

The Texas Craft Brewers Festival

2011-06-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

Happening Saturday, September 24, 2-9pm at Fiesta Gardens in Austin. The Texas Craft Brewers Guild is putting it on. No other details at this moment, feelers are out. Will post more info as it becomes available.

Maui Brewing Tap Takeover at Draught House

2011-06-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

From DH:

This Friday 5 of our taps will be taken over by Maui Brewing Company . We will be pouring the Coconut Porter, Imperial Coconut Porter , Mana Wheat , Big Swell IPA , and Double Overhead IPA .Glasses will be available with some of their beers, and Maui Brewing Co. owner Garrett Marrero will be present from 6-9 pm to answer any questions abut his beers.

Duel of the Chefs (With Independence Brewing)

2011-06-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Happening this Sunday at Judges' Hill Restaurant:

Check this out..... Beer and Wild Game Pairing featuring Independence Brewing Co. and Broken Arrow Ranch. Chef Jonathan Gelman of The Driskill Grill vs. Chef Rob Snow of Judges' Hill Restaurant to benefit Sustainable Food Center!!! Guests decide the winner!!! 6 Courses - $55/ Person

Only a handful of tickets left.

Euro Beer #13 - Le Cap

2011-06-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Brussels:

Euro Beer #13 - Le Cap

After dinner and a few hours of wandering around, we hit up Le Cap for a night cap (ah, ah). Le Cap was a nice, clean, modern bar/restaurant. Not exactly my style, but a decent place to grab a beer before nodding off. Sofia had a Brugs Wit and I had a Grimbergen Blanche. Sofia's was better.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Le Cap
Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blès, 28
Brussels

The next morning our host was kind enough to buy us croissants and brew us some coffee. It was not enough coffee and had to get more at Bar Espagnol Meres, a very odd, cool Spanish café. Pictures of bullfights and sidra drinking covered the old nicotine soaked walls. It was good to be on the mainland drinking real coffee again.

Hopfields

2011-06-21T06:57:00.000-07:00

A new beer bar is in the works. It's called Hopfields and it is located at 3110 Guadalupe (kind of near Wheatsville Co-op). They are still in the construction phase and looking at a late-summer opening. The concept? This is how they break it down: "craft beer, French style street food, and savory drinks." Follow the action:

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Thirsty Planet Turns One, Plans Party

2011-06-20T11:30:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday TP! All the details here.

Stone 15 - Stone Escondidian Imperial Black IPA

2011-06-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

Releasing August 15.

Via beernews.org

Next Jester King and Mikkeller Collab Update

2011-06-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

At it again. Last night JK posted of an update on their blog. I think they had told us before that they planned on brewing a TX version of Mikkeller’s Beer Geek Brunch, with smoked malts and chipotle peppers (lot of smokiness). But now they've given us an idea of when that would happen — November.

With all that smoke, it kind of kills the idea of beer geek brunch. Not that it won't be a good beer. I love smoked beers, especially with chipotle smoke and heat (Remember their Chipotle Porter ? Sooo good). Maybe they should figure out a way to make a Beer Geek Brunch with migas. There you go guys. Run with that.

Independence Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-06-16T12:01:00.000-07:00

Get off the computer, go hunting, get back on the computer and win stuff:

The Nitty
We will release 6 photo shots with accompanying clues. Find the spot and replicate the shot the best you can, except with your face in it. Clues will be released this Sunday and you have until next Sunday(19th 11:59pm) to submit your photos.
RULES(The gritty)
All participants must 21+, verified at time of redemption

All participants must take a picture in front of designated spots. No photoshopping! All images must be original images!

Independence Brewing Co. reserves the right to use submitted photos for promotional purposes

All photos should be taken on or between June 12th ,2011 and June 19th ,2011

Photos should be submitted to via email to adam@independencebrewing.com , a link to flickr, photobucket etc. is highly preferred. Please name your album “Indy Hunt 8/11″.

Submit Photos by June 19th, 2011, 11:59:59 PM CST

Individual photos only! This will be a ton of fun to do in groups but each individual needs to submit 6 unique shots.

Individual should be clearly identifiable (no masks!)

No purchase necessary

Independence brews are not required, though are highly recommended when at a bar, don’t drink in public.

Completed entries will be invited to a Happy Hour Event Wednesday, June 22nd and entered in a chance to win ACL Live tickets(2)

ACL Live tickets(2) not redeemable nor exchangeable

ACL Live tickets(2)winner will be chosen at random from invited parties DO NOT HAVE TO BE PRESENT TO WIN! But we would love to hang out!

And the clues? They are here.

Austin Beer Guide Summer Issue Release Party

2011-06-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

From our Facebook event listing:

Time: Wednesday, June 22 - 7:00pm - 10:00pm

Location: Draught House

We're celebrating the launch of the second issue of the Austin Beer Guide (www.austinbeerguide.com) this coming Wednesday at Draught House.

There will be brewers present, maybe some special beers, and NEW MUSTACHE GLASSES! Buy any beer from a brewery featured in the guide, and keep the mustache glass.

It will be lots of fun, come out.

That's right. It will be fun. And you should come out. Let us know if you are coming and we will save you a seat.

Brasserie de Rochefort Coming Back to TX

2011-06-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Hopefully. If they don't, don't blame me, blame You Stay Hoppy Austin.

Summer Lovin'

2011-06-14T09:24:00.001-07:00

This is happening over at ABG.

Houston Beer Fester

2011-06-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

Remember all those people complaining about the Great Austin Beer Festival? That was heaven compared to this:

Go here if video does not load.

H/T: Itzprad

Euro Beer #12 - Maison des Crêpes

2011-06-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2007 my wife and I traveled through Europe for 10 weeks. We ate a lot of food and drank of a lot of beer (and wine). Not enough food, not enough beer. In Brussels:

Euro Beer #12 - Maison des Crêpes

Directly after leaving that crusty bar we headed towards Grand Place to look around. But we were hungry. We were always hungry. We set out to find a spot to eat. Most places around Grand Place seemed extremely touristic, so we kept walking. We stumbled upon Maison des Crêpes and it seemed adequate. It was more than adequate. Our crepes were fantastic, as was the beer. I had another Duvel and Sofia drank a Palm.

My crepe. It tasted much better than it looks. Judge my photo, not the crepe.

For more euro foodage and drinkage, go here.

Maison des Crêpes
Zuidstraat 13
Brussels

Wet Brussels street, the view from our table.

Draught House Anniversary Party AND Austin Beer Week!

2011-06-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

Straight from Josh at Draught House (emphasis mine):

. . . we have set a date for our 43rd Anniversary party. It will be on Saturday October 22nd. This is also to 1st day of Austin Beer Week. Save your strength (and your liver) cause it's gonna be a long week.

So it looks like Austin Beer Week will run Oct. 22-29. Right in time for the fall issue ABG!

By the way, have you seen the cover for the summer issue? No? Well, click here. Going to the printer this week.

Live Oak Roggenbier Release Party @ Draught House

2011-06-07T09:57:00.001-07:00

Looking for something else to do tomorrow night besides the Saint Arnold cask? Well here you go. From Live Oak's FB page:

Announcing: Roggenbier Release Party! Wednesday, June 8, Draught House on Medical Parkway (where it's pint glass night - www.draughthouse.com), 5:30 - 8:30.

////

Roggenbier is mashed with a relatively high amount (25%) of German rye malt. It's characterized by a slight refreshing tartness, low hop bitterness, and a very slight fruitiness from the special German ale yeast. Roggenbier is extremely drinkable and is a great beer for the summer. 4.8% abv.

Saint Arnold Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout Cask @ Black Star Co-op

2011-06-07T09:30:00.001-07:00

Black Star Co-op is cracking open a cask of Saint Arnold Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout tomorrow (June 8). Get there if you can. We had a pint at the Draught House last Friday and it was really good. Chris was picking up coconut notes and came to the conclusion that we must have got the Malibu Rum Aged Imperial Stout cask. I wasn't gettin' that.

Weedwacker Bottles

2011-06-07T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is old news. Old news can still be good news. And this IS good news:

Weedwacker is now in bottles! It should start showing up on store shelves tomorrow. The label looks similar to Lawnmower except the yard has gone to seed. Oh, and the white sticky across the Lawnmower label that announces "Weedwacker". You will note its nice, hazy appearance, the result of both the fact that it is not filtered and that hefeweizen yeast is notorious for not flocking. We hope you enjoy this beer as much as we are!

Hops & Grain Tap Handles

2011-06-06T09:27:00.001-07:00

Looking good. From Larry.

Look Inside Easy Tiger

2011-06-03T09:37:00.001-07:00

Eater Austin gives us a sneak peak at the newest addition to the Austin beer scene: Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden. More photos as well at their Facebook page.

Flying Saucer Fall Beer Festival Date Announced

2011-06-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Not sure how I missed this, but Flying Saucer tweeted last week that their annual Fall Beer Fest will be happening October 1. See you in four months.

Jester King Stuff

2011-06-01T09:57:00.001-07:00

First, this past Friday JK brewed their latest session beer, a Berliner Weisse:

. . . a sour, very pale wheat beer, fermented with a combination of saccharomyces (standard beer yeast) and lactobacillus (souring bacteria).

Love that style. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

Then, today JK tweeted that they are bottling Drink'in the Sunbelt, their collaboration brew with Mikkeller.

Austin Beerworks Updates Website - Big Time

2011-06-01T06:45:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new Austin Beerworks website? It's live and wild. Lots to check out and seemingly much more to come. Some screen shots:

Don't make a wrong turn.

Don't know how beer is made? Let ABW show you the way.

Wikio Beer Blog Rankings - June

2011-06-01T06:08:00.000-07:00

Here they are again, Wikio's BEST BEER BLOGS IN THE WORLD (actually just the USA)! And I moved into the top twenty, as did I Love Beer. Lee has been on a tear lately. I'm gonna make this a personal grudge match with him. You hear that Lee?! See you in next month's rankings. Maybe.

1 Beervana
2 Brookston Beer Bulletin
3 The New School
4 Brewpublic
5 A Good Beer Blog
6 Appellation Beer: Beer From a Good Home
7 The Stone Blog
8 Washington Beer Blog
9 The Daily Pull
10 Oakshire Brewing
11 Brewer's Log (Blog)
12 KC Beer Blog
13 I Love Beer
14 Seattle Beer News
15 The Not So Professional Beer Blog
16 The Brew Lounge
17 It's Pub Night
18 Craft Austin
19 The Session Beer Project™
20 Beer-Stained Letter
21 Seen Through a Glass
22 brewvana
23 Beer 47
24 Drink With The Wench
25 Portland Beer and Music
26 The Potable Curmudgeon
27 BetterBeerBlog
28 Musings Over a Pint
29 Brewed For Thought
30 Beeronomics
Ranking brewd by Wikio

FYI, this was a "sneak preview" sent to me from Wikio.

Black Star Co-op's New Beer

2011-05-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

From their Facebook page:

You thought Dockhand couldn't get any more unruly? Try Cantankerous Dockhand. This version comes in at 6.7% ABV and has a smooth, smokey aroma with full-bodied, silky chocolate and chili taste. The hints of heat and roasty, sweet malt profile compliment the chilies and cacao.

They are tapping it tonight.

Real Ale 15th Anniversary Party

2011-05-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

15 years! Head out to Blanco and celebrate with the folks at Real Ale. Happening June 25th, 12pm-5pm. Their parties are always fun. And hot. So get there early to grab a shady spot.

Pecan Street Brewing is Brewing

2011-05-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hey look, Pecan Street is brewing:

Road trip!

h/t: BTA

1	Brookston Beer Bulletin
2	Beervana
3	The New School
4	Brewpublic
5	A Good Beer Blog
6	The Stone Blog
7	Appellation Beer: Beer From a Good Home
8	Washington Beer Blog
9	The Daily Pull
10	Drink With The Wench
11	It's Pub Night
12	Seen Through a Glass
13	Oakshire Brewing
14	KC Beer Blog
15	The Session Beer Project™
16	The Not So Professional Beer Blog
17	The Brew Lounge
18	San Diego Beer Blog
19	Craft Austin
20	Beeronomics
21	Brewer's Log (Blog)
22	The Potable Curmudgeon
23	BetterBeerBlog
24	Beer at 6512
25	Hoosier Beer Geek
26	Musings Over a Pint
27	Brewed For Thought
28	Seattle Beer News
29	Top Fermented
30	Beer in Baltimore