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South Denver Beer Festival

Posted on May 7, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

When I first read the lineup for the South Denver Beer Festival, I was very curious and excited. There were breweries on the list that have not even opened yet, so of course I bought tickets right away because I didn’t want to miss tasting beer I might not get to drink again indefinitely. And then the state decided it would be potentially unlawful for these breweries that are not yet licensed to allow the general public to taste their creations. Since I am unable to find that initial lineup, I can’t recall all the ones I was looking forward to. Though one I definitely remember is Former Future Brewing Company, whose beers I was fortunate enough to try at a private tasting event last month and whose Mariner (salter porter) I’ve been craving ever since. So it was pretty disappointing to find out that several upcoming breweries would not be able to pour at the festival. But there were other breweries that I had never actually tried before, so I arrived at the South Denver Beer Festival in hopes I would happen upon something new (to me) and interesting. And, of course, I did.

Clement Park in Littleton

Clement Park in Littleton

I thought Clement Park was a good choice for a beer festival. It was very open with plenty of room to move around. And, while I didn’t stay too late into the session, I did not encounter the ridiculous lines that often form at many beer fests. There seemed to be just the right amount of space between each table and each tent. Which is why I didn’t have to stay clear up until the end; I was able to make my way quickly around the festival and try all of the beers I wanted without a wait.

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A dog in shorts? How could I NOT post this?!

There are so many new breweries that have opened in Colorado it can be difficult to find time to get to every one, especially when they aren’t all that close to where I live. It was great to have so many of them right here in this one central location. So I tried some things I hadn’t had before, and here are my favorites:

The South Denver Beer Festival was a fun time. And now that I know which newer breweries I really like, I plan on visiting a few tap rooms in the near future and sampling more of their beers.

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Former Future Presently Brewing Up Delicious Beer

Posted on April 15, 2013 by coloradobeergirl
Salted Porter

Salted Porter

When I first heard of Former Future Brewing Company, I was instantly intrigued based on the name alone. Upon looking at their website and reading more about them, I realized this up and coming brewery is one that I am bound to love–for many reasons. As their manifesto states, Former Future’s beer is “based on historical recipes or styles, deconstructed, mixed with cutting edge techniques and unique ingredients to yield a product that is drinkable, delicious, and completely unique.” And while they are still seeking out the ideal physical location, their plans for a tap room include “a location straight out of another era, dripping with class, sophistication, and–most of all–comfort.” With all of this in mind, they could not have chosen a more appropriate space for Saturday’s tasting event than the Presidential Suite at Denver’s historic Oxford Hotel.

James and Sarah Howat, Former Future Brewing Company

James and Sarah Howat, Former Future Brewing Company

Former Future brought four beers to the event; the first one served was The Harvester, a Saison brewed with rye and wheat. It is made with wild yeast from local apple trees. While personally not a fan of Saisons, The Harvester was a bit milder than some I’ve had, so I found it easy to drink and thought it to be one of the better Saisons I have tried.

Next up was the Red Coat, an English style IPA. Much different than the extremely popular West Coast style IPA, this beer has only around 50 IBUs and an ABV of approximately 5.5-6%. When I hear “English style” I typically prepare myself for something that is served at a warmer temperature. But, much to my delight, this one was served up nice and cold which made it go down very smoothly. This was easily the best English style IPA I have had.

Cookies made with Former Future's beer, by The Cookie Brewer

Cookies made with Former Future’s beer, by The Cookie Brewer

As a stout fan I was looking forward to this next beer: a chocolate stout called The Magistrate. No actual chocolate is used in the brewing process, but rather half the brown malt is replaced with chocolate malt. This sweet stout has about 20 IBUs and is around 5.5% ABV. A wonderful accompaniment to The Magistrate was the Chocolate Espresso Stout cookie from The Cookie Brewer, who baked three different cookies, each with a different Former Future beer.

The one I was most excited to try was the last one: The Mariner, which is a salted porter. When I first got into beer, the porter was my absolute favorite style. Over the years I’ve moved away from them somewhat, as most porters simply don’t do much for me anymore. To me, a porter needs to have some sort of “hook,” something special to make it stand out. I had a feeling The Mariner would be just the beer for me; my whole life I’ve favored salty over sweet, my preferred childhood snack being Saltines. Before this beer was served we were warned that it is quite different and may not be for everyone. Upon first sip, it lived up to its name. It was so salty that even I wondered if it was a bit much. After a few drinks I realized that was not the case, and it grew on me immediately. The Mariner is, without a doubt, the most different, unique style of beer I have ever had. I got a hint of maple as well–yum. I fell in love with it right away and ended up drinking a full pint. I ate my last two cookies while drinking it, and they both paired so well with it: the Salter Porter cookie, which was much like a butter cookie but with a little area of concentrated salt in the middle. And the Beer & Pretzel Chocolate Chip cookie was great too, as it was sweet but with tiny bits of salty goodness throughout.

This tasting event was so much fun. James and Sarah Howat haven’t even opened their brewery yet, but it is obvious they already care so much about their customers and genuinely want to hear their feedback. I think Former Future Brewing Company is going to be one of my favorite new places, and I truly look forward to the day they open their doors for business. In the meantime, I will dream of that Salted Porter! And for those wanting to sample the beers for themselves, look for them at the South Denver Beer Festival May 4th and 5th. And The Cookie Brewer will be there as well!

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Many thanks to Former Future Brewing Company for this fantastic event. It was a great day of sampling tasty beers, meeting new people, and just having an overall wonderful time.

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Colorado Brews Airs This Saturday!

Posted on April 2, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

I am thrilled and honored to be a part of an exciting project called Colorado Brews. We filmed the pilot episode last summer, and it is finally going to air! Colorado Brews will air on Rocky Mountain PBS this Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 9:30 p.m. This episode features Crabtree Brewery in Greeley, CO.

Please “like” the Facebook page to stay up-to-date on all the news about the show. Also, we are trying to build an audience and spread the word about the pilot. I hope you will all tune in to support Colorado craft breweries and Colorado Brews! Thank you!

Here is some additional information, from Colorado Brews Facebook page:

Colorado is to beer what Napa Valley is to wine!

Colorado Brews is a weekly half hour television program devoted to showcasing Colorado’s craft breweries, which produce an estimated one million barrels of beer annually. More then 8% of America’s craft breweries are in Colorado with less than 2% of the nation’s population, clearly, Colorado is the craft beer state.

Each week Colorado Brews will feature one of the state’s outstanding breweries and highlight the signature beers they produce and the passionate brew masters who create them. Each episode will also include a reporter on location (note: that’s me!) at one of Colorado’s beer events or festivals, a home brewing segment, a food & beer pairing segment, and a beer tech segment that explains a technical aspect of the beverage, like proper serving temperature or glassware.

Colorado has 139 craft breweries operating and 75 more in development. Colorado’s Front Range is the largest craft brewing market in the United States. 

The innovative and dynamic beers being produced by Colorado’s brewers are winning national and international awards and are showing up in restaurants and in stores all over the world.

Creator & Executive Producer
Charles Nuckolls

Host
Ed Sealover

With
Leah Arthur
Billy Broas
Chef David Davis
Dave Butler

 

Follow Colorado Brews on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Colorado_Brews

 

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Crafting a Nation

Posted on March 22, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

Last night I had the privilege of attending the private release wrap party for Crafting a Nation. As described on their website, “Crafting A Nation is a feature length documentary and new media project about how the American craft brewers are rebuilding the economy one beer at a time.” I have been aware of this project for some time, and I was beyond excited to see it in its entirety.

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Setting up

The film’s main focus is on Black Shirt Brewing, which opened in 2012 in Denver. It follows them from the beginning–building the brewery–to its opening day. It was powerful to watch the struggles and setbacks, and all the hard work that was put into starting the company. It gave me a new appreciation for them, whose business and product I already admired and loved.

The Crafting a Nation team traveled to several states, visiting numerous breweries–including some from Minnesota, Missouri, Texas, and more. There is a good mix of companies represented in the film: some are smaller and still fairly new, while others have been around for quite a while and have become enormously successful. Think Sam Adams, Dogfish Head, and Sierra Nevada, to name a few.

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Many excellent Colorado craft beers

It was interesting to hear the stories of how these breweries got their start and continue to grow. And it was very informative to me to learn about beer laws in certain states and how the beer industry impacts the local and national economy. I love to drink craft beer, but I don’t often stop to think about the monetary aspect beyond how much I am paying for a 6-pack. So that was eye-opening for me.

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Two of Black Shirt Brewing’s beers

 

I was pretty much blown away by this film. I was captivated the entire time, had a few good laughs, and fought back some tears. It is beautifully done; it is obvious it was made by passionate people who gave it their all. I wish I could tell you when and where you can see it, but as of now I am not sure. Keep your eyes and ears open though, as this is one film you do not want to miss.

 

Head over to their website (Crafting a Nation) to watch the trailer, find out who is behind this amazing work of art, and more. From the site you can also follow them on Twitter and like them on Facebook. 

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Colorado Craft Beer Week: Which Beer is Always in My Fridge?

Posted on March 21, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

Since it’s Colorado Craft Beer Week, I would like to give a quick shout out to a couple of my favorite Colorado beers. Well, my favorites that are bottled/canned and distributed anyway. I have lots of others that can only be purchased in a tap room, so I’m mentioning the ones I can pick up at the liquor store and have regularly in my fridge. The one beer that my refrigerator is never without:

Modus Hoperandi (Ska Brewing Company, Durango)

Modus is my favorite standard IPA (not a double or Imperial), Colorado or not. I drink it basically every day and have for years, and I’m not tired of it. In my opinion, it’s the absolute Best. IPA. Ever. I’ve heard from some that it’s “too hoppy.” I personally haven’t ever had a beer that I’d describe as such, but that’s me. I understand everyone has their own likes/dislikes. I like Modus because it is so hoppy. I actually can’t remember the last day I didn’t have at least one Modus. I can’t say enough good things about this beer.

And my other favorite: Deviant Dale’s (Oskar Blues, Lyons)

Deviant Dale’s is my favorite “big” beer. I consider “big” beers 8% ABV or higher. Deviant Dale’s is just so tasty and delicious. It’s not the kind of beer I can drink all day long, as it’s a bit on the strong side. But I thoroughly enjoy it.

It’s wonderful to live in a state that produces so many amazing beers. I get to go to so many great breweries every week, and I have more tap room favorites than I can mention. But if you’d like to hear a few of them, check out my post where I list 10 of them: My Favorite Colorado Beers of 2012. For some reason I forgot to put Modus on that list, I guess because it’s such a staple in my life that I accidentally overlooked it. But anyway, I hope you are all enjoying YOUR favorite Colorado beers this week.

 

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Craft Beer Pairs Well With Italian Fare at Gaetano’s

Posted on March 19, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

When I want to go out for a nice Italian meal, my thoughts often turn to wine. Wine is the natural companion to Italian cuisine, and I enjoy an occasional glass of it with a good pasta dish. But, as a beer lover, I would like the option of having a few craft beers from which to choose at an Italian restaurant. Unfortunately, that is pretty rare. So I was delighted to find that Gaetano’s has just what I’ve been looking for.

Gaetano's new exterior - sign

Gaetano’s, 3760 Tejon St., has been a thriving Denver business for many decades. Eugene, Clyde and Clarence Smaldone first opened the restaurant in 1947 and also used the space to conduct “family business.” In 2012 they underwent renovations, adding black and white murals as a reminder of its past, for one. And the place looks fantastic. Nice, comfortable booths fill the dining area, and friendly staff are there for you every step of the way–from being greeted at the door, to the bartenders, servers, and management.

On my recent visit I had mead from Wynkoop Brewing Company. It had been quite some time since I’d last had mead, so it was a nice surprise to find it here. It was infused with juniper, heather, and wormwood and aged in whiskey barrels. It was delicious! They also offer other Colorado beers on tap from breweries such as Breckenridge, Ska, and Avery. It was great being able to choose a craft beer at an Italian restaurant. It is a treat to be able to eat and drink local at the same time. But don’t get me wrong; they also have an impressive wine list, so if you want wine from Italy, you’ve got it! Or if you’d prefer local wine, try a red or white from Infinite Monkey Theorem, also on tap and made right here in Denver.

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Mead from Wynkoop

At Gaetano’s you’ll find all the classics: lasagna, chicken or veal parmigiana, Alfredo and more, plus plenty of other unique dishes to try. And if you’re not sure what type of beverage would pair best with your meal, the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to provide you with an excellent suggestion.

Their happy hour runs weekdays from 4-6, offering $1 off Breckenridge and Wynkoop beers and wine from Infinite Monkey Theorem, plus a few other specials. Whether you want authentic Italian fare or just to stop in for a happy hour drink, Gaetano’s is a neat, interesting place to experience!

Gaetano's Cosmic Picnic

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Good Pours, Post 1: Our Mutual Friend

Posted on March 14, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

I find it quite interesting that I normally post great reviews about my experiences at many local breweries, bars, and restaurants that have a good tap list, and none of these get acknowledged. However, on the extremely rare occasions I post something negative, everyone is all over me about it. This is a blog. It’s written by me; I am a human and I have opinions, as we all do. This is where I share those opinions. I almost never see anyone post negative reviews on anything, and I call BS. I think many are too meek to speak out and say what they really think. There are bad beers, bad meals, bad breweries, etc. It’s a fact. Why is it we so rarely hear about the negative?

I posted a “bad pours” article earlier today, featuring Vine Street Pub. I was quick to say it’s one of my favorite places to hang out, drink great beer, and eat some damn tasty food. I also posted two photos of what I–personally–consider to be bad pours and asked your opinion. Many thought the pours were just fine, which is also fine–I was interested in others’ opinions and I got them. Thank you.

So here’s a little positivity for ya: this is what I consider a good pour. It’s a Huckleberry Roasters Coffee Stout at Our Mutual Friend. I did not take this photo for this purpose; it’s just one I happened to have on my phone from a couple months back. I eagerly await the “that’s too full” comments, as I’m sure my idea of a good or bad pour differs from that of others’. In any case, here it is.

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Bad Pours, Post 1: Vine Street

Posted on March 14, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

When you dine at your favorite restaurant, would you be happy if your meal portion was significantly smaller than it normally is? When you order a pint, would you be pleased if you don’t get a full pint? I’m pretty sure that almost 100% of people would say “No!” I, for one, am tired of receiving “bad pours.” Sadly it happens quite often, so I have decided to start posting these on my blog. I would rather not deal with this at all, as I simply want to get a good pour and be done with it. But I will post when I feel it’s necessary.

This first installment features one of my absolute favorite places,Vine Street Pub & Brewery. I first started going to the original location, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery in Boulder, when I moved to Colorado fourteen years ago. When Southern Sun opened in South Boulder, I was a frequent customer there too. And when Vine Street came to Denver, I quickly became a regular. I think their food is fantastic (my favorites being the nachos, burrito, quesadilla, and many of their daily soups). And they brew some of the best beers I’ve ever had; I love the FYIPA, Hop Vivant, Java Porter, and more. All three of the Mountain Sun pubs are places I enjoy going for a tasty meal and wonderful beer. So it pains me to feature Vine Street in this first “bad pour” post. But I have gotten some really awful pours there, more-so of late. In the past there have been a handful of instances when I’ve actually asked to have my beer (usually when I’ve ordered a pitcher) topped off due to the level being so low. But I should not have to do that; beer should be poured accurately, even if you are busy.

Below are two pints of FYI, both on different days.

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What do you think?

I’m sad to do it to one of my top places, but they need to step it up.

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Black Bottle Brewing. Sigh…

Posted on March 14, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

I recently stopped by Black Bottle Brewery in Ft. Collins. I had heard about them and wanted to try them out for a couple months. So the first chance I got I took a day trip to Ft. Collins to check them out (as well as some other newer breweries http://coloradobeergirl.com/2013/02/21/equinox-brewing-great-beer-excellent-art-whats-not-to-love/).

As I often do upon my first visit to a brewery, I went with a flight. Of the beers in my flight, I enjoyed the Hipster IPA and Liquid Metal Imperial Stout the most. Though, as much as I hate to say it, none of the beers really did it for me. Not one stuck out as remarkable or different, sadly.

Black Bottle

My companion and I were in need of a light snack, so we ordered a couple things to split. The House Salad was great: spinach with mushrooms, dried cranberries, candied pecans, hard boiled egg, and raspberry vinaigrette. We also got the veggie sliders. With absolutely no description on the menu of what exactly “veggie sliders” meant, I inquired as, sometimes veggie sliders are mini “hamburgers” while at other establishments they are black bean patties. Our server told us they are by Morningstar Farms, so we proceeded with the order because we have both had most of their veggie patties and liked them. I also asked if they were topped with anything, such as tomato and lettuce; I was told yes. When they arrived, they had cucumber on them–we both hate cucumber, hence my inquiry. But that was easy enough to remove (though the lingering taste remained). Upon my first bite I realized these sliders were veggie “sausage.” I dine out frequently, and I have never seen sausage sliders on any menu (except perhaps a breakfast menu, though I don’t even think I’ve seen that). “Sliders” implies burgers, and these were most certainly not burgers. I thought that was extremely odd, and my companion and I were not pleased as we do not care for “sausage” and felt it should have been communicated that’s what we were getting. We did not eat any more beyond the first bite.

Black Bottle 2

When our server came to clear off the table she asked how everything was. I replied, hesitantly, that it was “fine.” She evidently saw through my response and inquired further. I told her we were not aware the sliders would be “sausage” based and that we did not like them. She informed us that a new menu was in the works and would provide more detail about the items on it; okay, but it did nothing to help us that day. She then asked, “But more importantly–how was the beer? Because that’s what really matters.” We found that to be an extremely callous and dismissive response. True, a brewery should be known for its beer over its food. But when folks pay money for a meal (especially when there is absolutely zero description provided on the menu) they don’t end up eating, that definitely “matters” as well.

I ended up e-mailing them, and I did receive a response with an apology. But I was so put off by our server’s attitude and unwillingness to even attempt to compensate us in any way, that is what stuck with me. Most restaurants would take the uneaten food as a clue and offer to take it off the bill, buy one of your beers, or something minor so that the customer would not leave unhappy. It was a whopping $4 anyway; and it’s not the $4 but the principle of the matter. It would have been a gesture, and that goes a long way.

This experience, unfortunately, was my first impression of Black Bottle Brewery. Had I not ordered food, perhaps I would have left with more positive thoughts about them. But based on my overall experience, I’m not inclined to go back any time soon.

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32 Beers on the Wall at Wazee Supper Club

Posted on March 13, 2013 by coloradobeergirl

Pizza and beer. Pretty much two of my favorite things, especially together. I’ve been a fan of Wazee Supper Club‘s pizza for years. And thanks to their 2012 remodel, they now have an impressive 32 beers on tap.

I stopped in after work recently with a couple friends to check out their selection. We went on a Friday, which happens to be Bacon Happy Hour at Wazee Supper Club. Every Friday from 4-5 in their bar area, they serve up free bacon. And you never know just what kind of bacon you’ll get; last Friday it was chocolate-covered. Since one friend and I don’t eat meat we passed on the bacon, but my other friend seemed to enjoy it. And though I don’t eat it, I do like the idea of offering a different style of bacon each week. It keeps things interesting.

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Upon looking over the tap list I saw a couple beers I was curious about, along with many of my standard favorites, so I went with a flight. One hoppy beer I liked a lot was Mad River‘s Steelhead Double IPA. And of course Ska‘s Modus Hoperandi (Favorite. Beer. Ever.) and Firestone Walker’s Double Jack IPA. Deliciousness. I also tried something unlike anything I normally drink: Duchesse de Bourgogne by Brewery Verhaeghe in Vichte, West Flanders, Belgium. This beer–described as a Flanders red ale–is considered a sour but also has a bit of sweetness to it. Sour beers haven’t quite grown on me yet, but I’m trying. So it’s nice to get tasters and sample lots of them because I’ve noticed that nearly ever sour I’ve had is very different from the next.

My friends and I were just chatting over happy hour beers that evening, but I will visit again soon for some of their wonderful pizza. My favorite is the Bianca (garlic and olive oil base, mozzarella, fresh herbs) with green olives. Mmm…I’m getting hungry now. The next time you get a craving for pizza and beer, head on over and try Wazee Supper Club. With 32 draft beers from which to choose, you’re sure to find something you will love!

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