What is the best way a beer geek can celebrate Earth Day? By imbibing organic beer, of course!

On April 21st, Beer Revolution, Downtown Oakland’s most popular craft beer bar and bottle shop, invites you to celebrate organic beer and the brewers that make them! In honor of Earth Day, organic brewers from up and down the West Coast will be hosting their own “Organic Beer Revolution” at Beer Revolution, taking over its 40+ taps with a rebellious array of organic craft beer.

Technically speaking, non-organic beer is a modern-day phenomenon. All beer was organic before World War II, when the development and use of synthetic chemicals and pesticides began. Nowadays, organic brewers are an anomaly. But don’t let being an anomaly conuse your perception of organic craft beer. Same equipment, same process, same brewing talent required – the only thing that differentiates organic craft beer from its conventional counterparts is the earth-friendly agricultural practices used by organic farmers.

“Some people hold the misconception that organic craft beer is inferior to its conventional counterparts — which couldn’t be farther than the truth. Organic craft beer is just as delicious and innovative, if not more, as regular craft beer. My fellow organic brewers and I intend on proving this fact at the Organic Beer Revolution.” – Dan Del Grande, Bison Brewing.

The Organic Beer Revolution will start at noon on Saturday, April 21st, and last until every last drop of organic beer is consumed –or until last call– whichever comes first. The organic beer tap takeover will showcase a spectrum of beer styles from local Bay Area breweries, including Bison Brewing, Lucky Hand, Thirsty Bear, Mateveza, Santa Cruz Mountains Brewing and Uncommon Brewers — as well as a handful of organic beers from Northern California and Oregon breweries, including; Hopworks Urban Brewery, Butte Creek Brewing, Eel River Brewing, Commons Brewery and Fort George Brewery.

Several of the brewmasters will also be in the house, ready to answer any questions, so come toast the men and women that continuously put quality of ingredients and the health of the planet before the bottom line. Mother Earth thanks you!

The Organic Beer Revolution
• Place: Beer Revolution
• Location: 464 3rd St (Broadway & 3rd) Oakland, CA
• Date: April 21st
• Time: Noon-close
• Cost: per pint

As both a craft beer evangelist and an astronomy freak (star and moon obsession, true story), I am particularly excited about Fifty Fifty Brewing’s 5th Anniversary Celebration party this year, during the annular eclipse this May. Known for its highly coveted, internationally award-winning Eclipse series of Bourbon barrel-aged Imperial Stouts, Fifty Fifty Brewing is inviting its friends and fans to experience the pairing of a lifetime: Fifty Fifty’s Eclipse + the Universe’s Solar Eclipse, a once in a year opportunity.

“The planets have aligned, or more accurately, they will on May 20, 2012. While most of North America will be left out, including local cities like San Francisco and Sacramento, Truckee lies in the path of totality for the annular eclipse coming up later this spring.” – (Press Release, Fifty Fifty Brewing)

The celebration will take place at the Fifty Fifty brewpub in Truckee (North Tahoe, CA), starting at noon on May 20th. In addition to live music and awesome beer & food, co-owner, Alicia Barr, says that they anticipate ‘cleaning out the cellar’ to start making room for expansion, and offer some rare bottles for sale including previous vintages of Eclipse, BART, other barrel-aged blends, and some new products as well.

Tickets available at a discount in advance through FiftyFifty’s website.

Event Information:
* Date: Sunday, May 20, 2012
* Time: Noon – 8:30pm
* Venue: FiftyFifty Brewing Co. (Truckee, CA)
* Cost: $14 advance, $17 at the door. $7 for kids
* Bounce house, family games, and eclipse viewing
* Live music throughout the day
* Food: BBQ smoked over Eclipse barrel wood, Sushi from Drunken Monkey
* Drinks: FiftyFifty beer, spirits, water and soda for the kids!

About FiftyFifty Brewing Co.:
FiftyFifty Brewing Co.: Find Your Balance. Located in Truckee at 11197 Brockway Road, between Hwy 267 and downtown Truckee. Open seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 2 a.m., FiftyFifty serves both lunch and dinner to complement their variety of beers brewed on the premise. FiftyFifty also features a full bar, seasonal outdoor seating on the patio and live music and entertainment.

Follow @5050Brewing on Twitter

This past weekend, I attended the 16th Annual Holiday Ale Fest in Portland, OR. The 5-day winter beer fest took place under a large tent equipped with heat lamps in the heart Pioneer Courthouse Square, underneath the city’s largest Christmas tree. More than 50 winter ales were poured this year.

The Holiday Ale Fest is unlike any other winter beer fest that I’ve been to or even heard of. The organizers of the fest have extremely strict requirements — any beer poured must either be of a rare vintage or it must be brewed exclusively for the Holiday Ale Fest. Essentially, this fest is a heaven for beer geeks, boasting dozens of the rarest beers in the world.

Sadly, my trip to Portland was short and sweet, spanning exactly 48 hours. The only days of the fest that I was able to attend were Friday and Saturday — the two busiest and craziest days of the event. Luckily, I arrived early enough on Friday and was able to make some rounds before the insanity started. Unfortunately, I was unable to taste every single beer at the event. However, I relied heavily on the palate of one of Portland’s most beloved beer bloggers and beer experts, Angelo De Ieso of BREWPUBLIC, to guide me to the best beers in the fest. Here are my top 5 picks of the weekend:

1. Sang Noir 09′

Cascade Brewing Barrel House
Barrel Aged Sour Ale • ABV: 9.3% • IBUs: 9 • O.G.: 20.0° • F.G.: 3.5°
Description: This NW-style sour ale is a blend of red and double red beers that were aged in Pinot Noir and Bourbon barrels for 12-24 months. Look for sharp dark cherry and slight Bourbon notes in the nose and the first sip, where tart cherries and oak will soon take over and take you on a wine-like journey ending with a dry, tart fruit finish.

Wench’s Notes: I was extremely lucky to catch the special release of this vintage barrel-aged sour. Deep ruby brown in color, medium-bodied with excellent carbonation, Sang Noir boasts flavors of dark sour cherries, blackberries, balsamic vinegar and sherry wine with hints of oak and vanilla with a touch of earthy funk. Wine-like with a notable viscosity, Sang Noir finishes tart and dry leaving the palate craving more.

Can’t lie, I’ve never had a bad beer from Cascade. In fact, every beer I’ve had from them has not only been good, but extraordinary, and the Sang Noir is no exception.

2. Sang Noir

Cascade Brewing Barrel House
Barrel Aged Sour Ale • ABV: 9.3% • IBUs: 9 • O.G.: 20.0° • F.G.: 3.5°
Description: This deep, dark double red was aged over a year in Pinot and Whiskey barrels, then blended with a barrel of Bing cherries. This deep and rich NW double red is one of our most complex winter offerings.

Wench’s Notes: The current vintage is considerably more tart than it’s 09′ sibling, but excellent nonetheless. Lots of sour cherry and lactic flavors with a touch of oak and vanilla. Filled up an entire mug twice with it — and probably would have been satisfied drinking it the entire time.

3. 100% Bourbon Barrel Aged Velvet Merkin

Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Oatmeal Stout • ABV: 8.6% • IBUs: 33 • O.G.: 15.0° • F.G.: 5.5°
This small batch traditional oatmeal stout is brewed with 15% oats, 31% Maris Otter malt and a portion of roasted barley and hopped with US-grown Fuggles. The combination produces a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, accompanied by a mild bitterness and a roasted caramel finish. This batch was aged on 100% Bourbon barrels, most from Heaven Hill.

Wench’s Notes: Not my first time tasting this beer, however it was the first time tasting this vintage. Deep brown in color with a creamy off-white head, Velvet Merkin seduces the senses with rich aromas and flavors of chocolate, espresso, vanilla, oak, and roasted malts. Addition of oats gives it a creamy mouth feel. Notable alcohol warmth from the Bourbon barrel aging, yet still smooth and drinkable. Velvet Merkin is one of the sexiest beers I’ve ever had.

4. Tangerine Trees & Marmalade Skies

Bison Brewing
Bourbon barrel-aged Belgian Tripel brewed with Marmalade
A first in its history, Bison Brewing aged its special draft-only release Belgian Tripel brewed with locally-sourced navel orange marmalade into Evan Williams Bourbon barrels for 5 months. The result is a full-bodied ale boasting rich notes of toasted oak, vanilla, sugar cookie and burnt caramel with hints of orange zest and a slight alcohol warmth.

Wench’s Notes: “Picture yourself in a boat on a river, with tangerine trees and marmalade skies. Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly, a girl with kaleidoscope eyes.” – That is the state of mind this beer will put you in — a psychedelic state of euphoria. Tangerine Trees & Marmalade Skies reminds me of a classic Sidecar cocktail — boozy with hints of citrus, vanilla, oak and caramel.

Obviously, I’m very partial to this beer since I work for Bison Brewing and I got to name the beer — but that doesn’t mean that it really wasn’t the 4th best beer I tasted at the event. I was extremely impressed by it, and drank my fair share of it.

5. The Nutcracker

Oakshire Brewing
Gingerbread Imperial Porter • ABV: 8.0% • IBUs: 30 • O.G.: 19.7° • F.G.: 4.7°
The Nutcracker is a rich imperial porter with notes of aromatic ginger and cinnamon, perfect sustenance for those chilly damp holiday nights.

Wench’s Notes: Even though I’ve sworn off The Nutcracker forever (my parents danced in it for nearly 15 years and I’ve seen the ballet more times than I’d like to admit), I made an exception for this beer though. Deep brown in color, with solid carbonation and a medium-heavy body, The Nutcracker boasted rich aromas and flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, cinnamon and ginger. It was notably spicy from the use of raw ginger, yet not overwhelmingly so. For an 8% alcohol beer, The Nutcracker was entirely way too smooth and drinkable for its own good and I can see it getting me into some serious trouble.

BEST BEER NAME:

BARRY WHITE’S VOICE IN A BARREL, Bison Brewing

I would love to be modest about this one, but since the majority of festival goers thought it was the best name, I can’t deny it.

“Barry White’s Voice in a Barrel is a dark, slow-pouring aphrodisiac of the smoothest proportions; rich roast, luscious oak, bittersweet and oh so sexy.” – Dan Del Grande, Bison’s Brewmaster & Owner

This is the first time in its 23-year history that Bison Brewing has aged its flagship beer, the iconic Chocolate Stout (often referred to as “Barry White’s Voice in a Bottle”), in Bourbon barrels. Taking into consideration the base beer’s moderately low alcohol content and medium body, Bison’s brewmaster Dan Del Grande decided to age the Chocolate Stout for  8 months in second use Four Roses Bourbon barrels. The result is a delicately balanced, medium-bodied ale boasting notes of toasted oak, vanilla, dark chocolate and espresso with hints of molasses and caramel.

————————————–

Outside of the actual beers at the fest, there were a lot of additional highlights. The top highlight of the entire weekend, for me, was meeting Angelo of BREWPUBLIC, a fellow beer blogger for whom I have tremendous respect and adoration. Angelo was kind enough to help a first timer navigate the fest like a seasoned pro.

Photo Credit: BREWPUBLIC

Portland’s Yelp team was also in the house, with a “Roving Photo Booth” (designed by local artist: Pete Soloway) near the entrance gates. Not exactly being the most camera shy person, I spent quite a good deal of time hanging out with the Yelp boys, striking a few poses and even starting a spontaneous German Sparkle Dance Party.

Photo Source: Portland Yelp

The Oregon Lottery also had a photo booth set up inside the fest, with an ugly sweater theme. Festival goers were promoted to deck themselves out in a selection of ugly xmas sweaters and pose with tacky holiday props. Sadly, I only did it once (pics still aren’t up, though)…

Angelo and his friend Dean

I was delightfully surprised to reunite with my friends Brad and Maeve from the Chicago based video podcast, Hop Cast, at the Holiday Ale fest. The beer industry never ceases to amaze me. It is so awesome that I can be visiting a different city at the same time as friends from another region in the country, and just randomly attend the same beer event. Sooooo cool.

Also had the opportunity to meet many new friends, as well as see some old friends. Was really exciting to meet Preston, one of the fest founders who also works as a blender for Cascade Barrel House. Learned all about a new blackberry blend the brewery just did which, unfortunately, was such a small batch that we won’t see it outside of the brewery.

Moral of the story, the Holiday Ale Fest was a really fun event. Fantastic beers with fantastic people in a fantastic city, how could you go wrong?

Cheers!

Anyone who follows me in some capacity on the interwebs has undoubtedly gotten wind of my love-hate relationship with the enigmatic city of Portland and its esoteric residents.

Although I still think Portland is even weirder than it promotes itself to be, I have found a very soft spot in my heart for its extraordinary food & beverage culture. In fact, Portland has become one of my favorite cities to visit. I love its public transport system, its dedication to sustainability and localism, its liberal politics, its remarkable art and music scene, and I’ve even become an advocate of the CDA (Cascadian Dark Ale).

But the best part about Portland, by far, is its beer scene. Portland has one of the most passionate, collaborative, supportive and innovative beer cultures in the world (note: I said one of the most, not the most). It has the highest number of breweries & brewpubs per capita in the United States (55 according to the Oregon Brewers Guild). Portland also boasts over 50 beer festivals a year, which equates to just about one every week (I’m sure one of my blogging friends will step in and correct me on that number). And we aren’t just talking about any old beer fest, we are talking about creatively themed festivals with some of the most interesting, innovative and rare beers in the world. One such fest is the Holiday Ale Fest, which kicks off today.

Being still newish to the West Coast craft beer scene, especially the one in Portland, I only just got wind of the Holiday Ale Fest 2 months ago. This marks the 16th year that this 5-day winter beer fest has been celebrated. It takes place under a large tent equipped with heat lamps in Pioneer Courthouse Square, where one of the city’s largest Christmas trees can be found. More than 50 winter ales are being poured this year. But not any old holiday beer is allowed to be poured at the fest. The organizers of the fest have extremely strict requirements — any beer poured must either be of a rare vintage or it must be brewed exclusively for the Holiday Ale Fest.

And what does that mean? It means that the Holiday Fest boasts quite possibly the largest rare beer fest in the world, considering most people will not be able to find any of the beers before or after the fest is over.

Naturally, it also means that this is one of the biggest attractions for the biggest of beer geeks, and one of the most coveted fest entries for craft breweries. Which is why you all know I couldn’t resist 1. getting one of our beers from Bison Brewing into the fest and 2. witnessing the action in person. Unfortunately, we arrive Friday and will only be spending two days at the fest — but two days are better than no days, right?

Soooooo let’s get to the nitty gritty, shall we? The list of beers is a bit intimidating, and I fear being able to tackle the whole thing. So I’ve narrowed it down to the 5 beers that I am most interested in seeking out:

1. Cherry Christmas, Lompoc Brewing: Cherry Christmas is a blend of four different beers: Golden Ale fermented in stainless steel with sour cherries; Golden Ale fermented in Port barrels with sour cherries; Brown Ale inoculated with a lambic blend yeast ale aged in Merlot barrels for four years; and a two-year old Gueze.

2. Cranberry Biere de Table, Breakside Brewery: This petit saison is crafted with a French farmhouse yeast strain. A substantial amount of Munich malt in the grist bill maintains the body. The beer was fermented directly on Oregon-grown cranberries, which impart color, tartness and fruity aromatics to the beer. A hint of additional winter spice gives the beer extra complexity.

3. Sang Noir, Cascade Barrel House: This NW-style sour ale is a blend of red and double red beers that were aged in Pinot Noir and Bourbon barrels for 12-24 months. Look for sharp dark cherry and slight Bourbon notes in the nose and the first sip, where tart cherries and oak will soon take over and take you on a wine-like journey ending with a dry, tart fruit finish.

4. The Nutcracker, Oakshire Brewing: The Nutcracker is a rich imperial porter with notes of aromatic ginger and cinnamon, perfect sustenance for those chilly damp holiday nights.

5. 100% Barrel-aged Velvet Merlin, Firestone Walker: This small batch traditional oatmeal stout is brewed with 15% oats, 31% Maris Otter malt and a portion of roasted barley and hopped with US-grown Fuggles. The combination produces a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, accompanied by a mild bitterness and a roasted caramel finish. This batch was aged on 100% Bourbon barrels, most from Heaven Hill.

Oh, and naturally, I highly recommend anyone attending the fest to track down a sample of Barry White’s Voice in a Barrel from Bison Brewing: This is the first time in its 23-year history that Bison Brewing has aged its Chocolate Stout (often referred to as “Barry White’s Voice in a Bottle”) in Bourbon barrels. Bison aged the beer for eight months in second use Four Roses Bourbon barrels. The result is a delicately balanced, medium-bodied ale boasting notes of toasted oak, vanilla, dark chocolate and espresso with hints of molasses and caramel. <– The only reason it was on my must find list is because I work for the brewery and have already enjoyed lots of it… tough life, I know.

If you are in the Portland area this Friday and Saturday and want to grab a beer, definitely give me a shout out!

Cheers!

• Date: Sseptember 29, 2011
• Where: Cholon Bistro
• Time: 6pm for beer cocktails, 7pm dinner
• Cost: $125

In my world, nothing truly beats an amazing food & beer pairing. Well, there might be an exception or two, but I will leave that to your imagination.

Food and beverage pairings, let alone food and beer pairings, are not easy. They require a palate far beyond the average chef, sommelier and brewer. Few chefs understand the complexities of nuances of beer like a brewmaster, and in contrast, few brewers understand the complexities and nuances of food like an executive chef. Those capable of crossing the line between brewmaster and executive chef are not just few and far between, they are virtually mythological in nature — beings of legends and lore.

A few select individuals, humans capable of transcending the science and artistry of brewing and the science and artistry of cooking, actually do exist. These supertasters possess amazing abilities, almost incomprehensible to us mere mortals. One such modern wonder is Jared Rouben, Pub Brewmaster for the Goose Island Brewpubs in Chicago, IL.

Now before some of you get all huffy puffy on me, it is crucial to note that the Goose Island Brewpubs are NOT owned by AB-InBev. It’s okay, breathe a sigh of relief with me now. Okay, feel better?

Back to the story.

Isn't he adorable?

Not only is Jared a phenomenal brewer, as exemplified by the amazing beers he produces for Goose Island, he is also an Culinary Institute of America graduate with an extraordinary culinary resume, including working with the legendary Thomas Keller — arguably one of the best chefs in the world — at Keller’s prestigious Per Se in Manhattan.

So yes, you heard me right. Jared Rouben is both a genius brewmaster and a professionally trained chef, which essentially makes him a foremost expert on beer and food pairings. And that brings us to the Great American Beer Festival.

During the Friday night session of GABF, between 7:30 and 8pm, Jared will be teaming up with Stephanie Izard, Top Chef winner and owner/chef of Girl & the Goat, on the stage of the convention floor, where they will will provide insights on brewing beers to complement food and creating food to complement beers. The presentation, called “Sweet and Smokey Chicago Style”, will feature samples of their collaboration: “Farmer’s Market,” a honey smoked Porter made with wildflower honey from Ellis Family Farms in Illinois. This unique, medium-full bodied beer balances honey, roast and smoke flavors, and will be shared with the panel’s audience and paired with a sweet and smoky dish, to be announced. (Check out the video below for more information on the collaboration beer).

But the main event, the raison d’etre, the inspiration of this post, is the night before.

On the evening of September 29th, Stephanie and Jared are partnering with ChoLon Bistro Chef Lon Symensma & Alex Seidel of Fruition to present a beer dinner of epic proportions. All proceeds from the dinner will benefit Share Our Strength (strength.org), a charity dedicated to ending childhood hunger in the US by 2015. The details are such:

• Date: Sseptember 29, 2011
• Where: Cholon Bistro
• Time: 6pm for beer cocktail reception and snacks, 7pm dinner
• Cost: $125

Alongside the Honey Porter, the dynamic beer menu will be showcasing Rumble Oak-aged IPA from Great Divide and Funkwerks Belgium White, finishing with Dulce — Jared’s American Stout made with “crop 2 cup” Ugandan french roast coffee & Seville oranges. Each chef will create a family style dish to accompany the different beers from Jared’s list, to show the many directions one can go and the various styles of cooking that can work well when pairing beer and food.

“We wanted it to be unique as well as representative of both Jared’s brew style and my cooking. One of many qualities that makes Jared unique as a brewer is that he started his career, back in the kitchen, at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. The way that he thinks about layers of flavor in his beers is similar to my approach to food at Girl & the Goat.” — Stephanie Izard.

Naturally, I’ll be there, which can only mean one thing… you should be there as well. And trust me, a beer dinner with an amazing brewmaster with experience from Thomas Keller’s prized Per Se in NYC is no joke. And for $125, it is a steal. BE THERE. Or be sorry…

About Jared Rouben

Originally from Louisville, Jared is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, as well as the Culinary Institute of America in New York and the Siebel Diploma course. After culinary school, he worked as a chef at the Michelin Star Martini House in Napa and as Expeditor at the three Michelin Star Thomas Keller’s Per Se in New York City. After New York, Jared moved to Chicago to become a part of the Rock Bottom brewing team. Jared first joined the Goose Island Clybourn brewing team in 2009 and became the Head Pub Brewer in January of 2010. Since starting at Goose Island Jared has created the Chef Collaboration Series, Farmers Market Series and focused on experimental brewing. His passion for both beer and food is infectious.

Wow. I am super lame. It only took me like a month to edit film I took during the Black Star Beer Barter in Whitefish, Montana. Now granted, I did recently start a new job. And then there was the insanity known as SF Beer Week. And I’m sure I can come up with a million other excuses of WHY it took me so long, but that is neither here nor there since I finally put it together.

I must throw out a little disclaimer, though. I am not a videographer. Not at all. So it is what it is. But, I can say that I had a blast at the barter (even though I did get in trouble by the fire department for hanging off the roof). The contestants were super creative, funny and the whole show was entertaining. The people who won were just over the top amazing… and I wish I had footage (or the recording) so that y’all could here the radio commercials that they created. Seriously, hil-f*ing-larious.

So without any further ado…

Black Star Beer Barter Recap from The Beer Wench on Vimeo.

One of the great perks to writing a blog is having the complete creative freedom to write about whatever you want, however you want. By now, most of you are probably aware of my rather opinionated approach to beer writing. And when I get excited about something, it is hard for me not to express it or share it with the world.

Before I get into my story, there are a few things I need to disclose. This past weekend I was flown by Black Star Beer to Whitefish, Montana. The company paid for my flight, my 2-night stay at the lodge, dinner on Friday night, and (copious amounts of) beers all weekend long. I also received a fun little gift package that included a tin beer mug, a six pack of beer, coffee, and a t-shirt. Okay, now that I’ve followed the “blogging rules” of disclosure, we can move on…

Although I did attend its “relaunch” party last spring, I must admit that,
prior to this trip, I did not know that Black Star Beer was the flagship brand of the McKenzie River Corporation, a beverage marketing firm based in San Francisco, CA. I’ve since learned that the company is also responsible for launching other beverage brands such as Sparks, Steel Reserve (oh how proud this would make my friends at Bistro Sabor), and even an absinthe called Le Torment.

Now for all of you craft beer snobs that have speculations and assumptions about Black Star Beer, put down the boxing gloves and step away from the hater-ade. Although it is associated with a marketing corporation responsible for more mass-produced products, Great Northern Brewing Company is a legitimate craft brewery in every sense of the word, dedicated to producing delicious beer from high quality ingredients.

And y’all know by now that I would never stand behind a corporate brand, so have faith in me on this one.

The McKensie River Corporation was founded by Minott Wessinger, whose family tradition of brewing dates back to 1856. In 1995, Minott founded the Great Northern Brewery, a three story brewhouse with a 20 barrel system that utilizes a traditional “gravity flow” brewing process. Great Northern Brewing Co. currently produces approximately 8000 barrels per year. At this time, the brewery produces all of its smaller production beers as well as Black Star on draft. Black Star bottles are brewed at a separate production facility.

By now, I’ve toured and brewed in several different breweries of all sizes. I must admit that Great Northern was one of the coolest breweries I’ve ever visited. Although small, the three-tiered brewing system was really impressive and, apparently, very efficient. It was also very clean, which is crucial — especially with breweries that mainly brew lagers.

Typically viewed as the “gateway” to craft beer, the craft lager family is often under-appreciated, if not completely ignored. Personally, I find the category completely liberating and refreshing, especially with the recent flood of high-octane, extreme beers in the market.

Minott developed the Black Star lager because he saw a need in the market for a well-made, flavorful, craft lager. He recognized that the average everyday corporate beer drinking consumer needed an approachable, full-flavored beer to help them make the transition into craft beer. And that is preciously what Black Star is — an easy to drink, light-bodied beer brewed with quality ingredients and lots of flavor.

Although I did enjoy probably what equates to the volume of one keg of Black Star beer over the duration of the weekend, it was Fred’s Black Lager that really stole the show. It had balanced notes of chocolate and roasted malts, no esters, a light and smooth body, and I found it to be a perfect breakfast beer.

Another excellent beer was the “Going to the Sun IPA” — a nicely balanced, crisp IPA around 55 IBUs and 6% abv. The hops were floral and slightly citrusy with notes of pine and complimented the very light malt bill (mostly two-row with some munich and a hint of crystal for color).

When I learned I would be attending the Black Star Barter and the Whitefish Winter Carnival, I was excited but really didn’t know exactly what to expect. What ever expectations I might have had were completely exceeded by the Black Star beer crew.

I flew in Friday evening, and was taken immediately to the Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Words cannot give justice to the hospitality of the lodge staff. From the moment our car pulled up, till the moment I was dropped at the airport, the staff was unbelievably friendly and accommodating.

Black Star hooked me up with a PIMP suite in the main building of the lodge. I had a balcony, fireplace, kitchen, enormous king size bed, and a bathroom that any female would envy. Naturally, all the travel made me extremely parched, and I was very excited to find a mixed six-pack of Great Northern beers. I popped a Black Star open, freshened up, and then headed to the lobby to meet the rest of the Black Star team.

I would like to interrupt this post now to make the following announcement: I AM IN LOVE WITH THE ENTIRE BLACK STAR CREW (and Great Northern and all of their partners). Each and everyone of them had a great personality, sincere passion for Black Star and commitment to each other and the company. The group dynamic was bewitching and I was helpless against their charm. I had only one option this weekend, fall under the Black Star spell.

The weekend, in a word, was EPIC. I know the word is overused, but I really cannot find a better term to describe my experience. Friday night consisted of one of the most unique and extraordinary beer dinners I’ve ever attended. Great Northern Brewery set up a huge banquet table on the floor of its brewery, lined up against the fermenters. Lights were turned down low and the brewery was illuminated by candle light.

The dinner deserves an entirely separate editorial, as does the Black Star Beer Barter. So I will close my first post by thanking the entire Black Star crew for their amazing hospitality and all of the really goods times I had this past weekend.

CHEERS! (And stay tuned for more on my weekend in Whitefish…)

Last time I mentioned Black Star’s Beer Barter, I had offered up my unborn child. Unfortunately, Black Star was a little smarter than I thought they would be and declined my “IOU” offer of Lil’ Wench Numero Uno. Considering my current anti-reproduction stance and the fact and my awkward fear of babies and small children, the chances of my paying up on the barter are very slim. But lucky for me, Black Star beer was interested in making a different barter. They are going to send yours truly to the lovely state of Montana (woot, I get to check another one of the 50 states off my list) for the Whitefish Winter Carnival, where the official beer barter competition will go down.

The more I read about and learn about the Whitefish Winter Carnival, the more excited and the more nervous I get. The event is the furthest from normal that one can imagine. Based on descriptions and pictures, I picture the Whitefish Winter Carnival being a cross between Alice in Wonderland and the Renaissance Fair — a one-of-a-kind congregation of crazy characters in creative costumes attempting bizarre feats and causing mad chaos. Wait, why did I say I was nervous? I was made with this event! Now all I need is a crazy costume…

And although I will not be partaking in the Black Star Barter as a competitor, I am excited to announce my involvement in it. Check out the following press release for the official details! (Oh and if there was any question about it, you can guarantee I will be partaking in the Penguin Plunge.)

BLACK STAR BARTER TEAMS UP WITH THE BEER WENCH

Every beer event needs a beer wench, right? However, the insanely creative, distinctly quirky and uniquely exciting events require something more than just your average scantily-clad women serving beer to patrons. These require a personality just as unique and eccentric as the event, one that will not only take part in the festivities, but help to contribute to the overall chaos and debauchery. This is why Black Star Beer is thrilled to announce its partnership with beer writer and internet personality Ashley Routson, also known as The Beer Wench, for the Black Star Barterduring the Whitefish Winter Carnival.

Coming into its 52nd year, the Whitefish Winter Carnival slightly resembles The Renaissance Fair, but instead of having characters such as Robin Hood and his merry men, The Whitefish Winter Carnival consists of Viking divas, yetis, penguins, mountain goats in lederhosen, and a Nordic Royal Court loaded with esoteric characters. Words cannot do justice to this otherworldly event, you have to be there to understand it.

For this year’s carnival, Black Star Beer decided to take its participation to the next level by introducing its Black Star Beer Barter. The concept is rather simple. Black Star Beer has challenged its fans to show up in front of the Great Northern Brewery at 1pm on February 5th and present to the judges something that they would give up, trade or do for a year’s supply of beer.

Although her exact role is undefined, Black Star has enlisted Routson to assume the responsibilities of field reporter/crowd motivator/competition judge/social media siren and chief rock star of beer consumption. Routson will be traveling around the carnival, followed by a camera, engaging with the crowd and the participants, judges, and organizers of the Black Star Beer Barter. Over the course of the weekend, Black Star will release a series of viral videos capturing the excitement and insanity of the carnival.

“When we told Ashley, excuse me, Wenchie about The Black Star Barter, she went bananas and promised her first born child for a chance at a year’s supply of beer,” said Minott Wessinger, founder of Black Star. “Sadly we won’t be accepting I.O.Us at the barter, but Wenchie’s enthusiasm locked her in as the supreme beer wench of the weekend. We’re excited to have her on board,” said Minott.

Routson may play an integral part of the judging process should any of the judges on the panel get caught up at the Penguin Plunge, where the entire town jumps through a hole in a frozen over lake…for fun, held immediately before the beer barter. Routson notes, “To those who question my morals and ethics, allow me to ease your minds by saying that, yes, my vote can be bought. I will gladly accept bribes in the form of flattery and beer.”

For anyone that lives remotely close to Whitefish, this is a -must-not-miss-or-you-will-regret-it-for-the-rest-of-your-life event. For those unfortunate folk who cannot witness the events in person, no worries, the video footage captured at the event should make you feel as if you were there in person. Find some delicious Black Star beer near you, using the handy-dandy Beer Locator on the official website, and feel like you are part of the action!

Black Star Beer Barter – Event Details

• When: Saturday, February 5, 2011 1:00-3:00 pm MST
• Schedule:
  • 11:00 am-1:00 pm MST- Contestants register their submission in front of the brewery
  • 1:00 pm-3:00 pm MST-Black Star Barter; spectators and contestants may enjoy the beer garden & brewery
  • 3:00 pm- Winner of Black Star Barter announced
• Where: Great Northern Brewery — 2 Central Ave. Whitefish, MT 59937
• Websites:
  • Event — http://www.blackstarbeer.com/barter
  • Company — http://www.blackstarbeer.com

About Black Star Beer
15 years ago, Minott Wessinger, 5th generation brewer, chose to build a brewery in Whitefish, MT. He saw it as a fantastic place to create exceptional beer. Black Star is a double hopped golden lager. By hopping our beer in the kettle, and then again before finishing, Black Star opens up with a distinctive hoppy aroma and a rich, full bodied flavor. All this while remaining remarkably crisp, light and refreshing.

I am super stoked to have had the opportunity to get interviewed by Barley Pop, an original web series about beer, at this year’s CanFest in Reno. The event was super rad, the people I met were super rad, and Buckbean Brewing Company set me up with a super rad room in the casino. I had an amazing time and will definitely go back next year.

And yeah, I know I have a lot of lesson to learn in the way of doing formal interviews and I know I talk too much and say like too much. Trust me, I will get there. But until then, check out my interview. And yes, modesty is not my strength. But then… the wench by any other name wold still be as wenchy…

Oh and the cool part about this vid, is that is captured my crazy hair w/ bright purple, black and white (the hot pink faded)…

This year, 3,523 beers were judged in 79 different categories at the Great American Beer Festival. Breweries and brewers from all around the country received due recognition for their hard work and dedication to the art of beer.

Whereas these great accomplishments should not go ignored, I will let my fellow bloggers and the Brewers Association inform the rest of the world about the great beer feats at the festival.

You see, while the most studious among us took notes the entire time, I was too busy what we will call… errrr… “living in the moment.” Instead of reviewing beers and recapping the GABF higlights, I have decided express my own (extremely subjective) experience at GABF in the form of “spoof awards.” Because, after all, no awards ceremony is complete without a “spoof awards” presentation. Am I right?

Disclaimer: Some of these awards are more serious than others. And all of them are entirely subjective and not meant to be offensive or taken too seriously…

So without further ado, allow me to present:

The Wench’s 2010 GABF Spoof Awards

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Best Costume

Niko, 21st Amendment — Watermelon Suit

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Most Likely to Get His Mustache + Eyebrows Dyed at a Mansion Party

Josh Deth, Revolution Brewing Company

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Most Likely to be Found Smoking a Cigar

Dr. Bill Sysak

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Studliest Man in a Cowboy Hat

Three-way tie between:
Fred Bueltmann, New Holland Brewing Company
Brad Kraus
Ryan Fulmer, Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que

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Coolest Brewery Booth at GABF

Sierra Nevada
Honorable Mention: Oskar Blues

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Most Iconic Facial Expression in Pictures

Greg Koch, Stone Brewing Co. — #gregface
Honorable Mention: Ashley Routson, The Beer Wench — #wenchface

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Brewer Most Likely to Snag Bottles and Continue Pouring Outside the Convention Center

Jason Yester, Trinity Brewing

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Most Likely to Spike Beer with Spirits

Sebbie Buhler, Rogue

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Brewer Most Likely to Take off His Pants

Sam Calagione, Dogfish Head

(At least that is what the rumor was…)

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Best Socks

Random Dude with Bacon + Beer Socks

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Most Dapper Dressed Brewer

(And the only Brewer who can pull off Red Pants and a Straw Fedora)
Garrett Oliver

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Most Attractive Brewing Company

The Bruery
Honorable Mention: Port Brewing Company

(Photo stolen from: Drink Eat Travel)

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Hottest Chick Brewer

Veronica Vega, Deschutes

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Hottest Dude Brewer

Noah Regnery, PIzza Port San Clemente

Honorable Mention: Tyler King, The Bruery

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Most Disturbing “Quote” Overheard

_________________________________________________

Cutest Chick (Denver) Bartender

Leah, Cheeky Monk

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Cutest Dude (Denver) Bartender

Colin, Great Divide Taproom

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Rowdiest Brewery (Inside and Outside of GABF)

Iron Hill
Honorable Mention: Port Brewing

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Brewery Most Likely to Randomly Pass Out in Another Brewery’s Hotel Room

(Unintentionally, of course…)

Dogfish Head

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Most Likely to Pass Out on the Hotel Stairs

Brian Kropf, Mutineer Magazine

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Brewery Most Likely to be Caught Drinking Coors Light at 4am on Saturday After Winning a Gazillion Awards at GABF

Port Brewing Company

(Photo stolen from: Drink Eat Travel)

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Most Likely to Be Found At The Bruery’s Table

Cambria, Drink Eat Travel

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Most Likely to be Caught Singing Karaoke

E.C. Crowe, The “A2″ Beer Wench (Star Bar)

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Brewer with the Most Badass Style

Jamie Floyd, Ninkasi Brewing

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Best Dreadlocks

Jason Yester, Trinity Brewing

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Most Talented Beer Chef

Sean Paxton

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Best Brewer’s Beard

Matt Brynildson, Firestone Walker

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The Man Whose Presence Was Most Missed

David “Moose” Buhler, Elysian

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Best Birthday Party

Taylor Shaw (The Art of Beer), Falling Rock Taphouse

(Picture stolen from: John M. P. Knox)

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Best “Unofficial” GABF Tasting

Dr. Bill’s Rare Beer Party

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The Only Party Where Boobs Outnumbered Beards

Beer For Boobs Brunch, Freshcraft

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Best Harry Caray Impression

Kell Bensen, Colorado Beer Week

Honorable Mention: Alex P. Davis

_________________________________________________

Most Likely to Get Leied on His Birthday

Justin, Brewing Network
(Disclaimer: Leied not Laid)

_________________________________________________

Most Likely to Get Her Boobs Grabbed in Public

Melissa Cole

_________________________________________________

Most Likely to be Seen in The Cruise Room

Steve Parkes, American Brewers Guild

_________________________________________________

Most Photographed Man (In Person & Cardboard Form)

Charlie Papazian

_________________________________________________

Number One Way to Cause a Hangover

Last Call at Whiskey Bar

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Number One Way to Cure a Hangover

Bacon Bloody Marys at Stuebens

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Best Beer Bar in Denver (and quite possibly The World)

Falling Rock Taphouse

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Best NEW Denver Craft Beer Destination

Tie between:

FreshCraft

Star Bar

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Best Worst Idea at the End of the Night

Whiskey Bar

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Swankiest Cocktail

(Accompanied by a swanky head bob and a shimmy)

Guava Sexy, The Cruise Room

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Best Street Food in Denver

Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs

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Best Get-Away (Hideaway) Inside the Convention Center

Farm To Table Food Pavilion

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AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST…

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THE Most Epic MOMENT During GABF

(Left to Right: Vinnie, Dave, Jennifer, Natalie, Brett, Jay)

The Big Daddy + Jennifer Smith “Impromptu Wedding”

Who: Dave Keene + Jennifer Smith of Toronado

Best Man = Vinnie Chilurzo

Best Woman = Natalie Chilurzo

“Father” of the Bride = Jay Brooks

The Reverend = Brett Joyce

Where: Russian River Booth, GABF Convention Floor

When: Saturday Night

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Naturally, the list could go on forever. Have a spoof award that you would like to give out? Leave a comment below!

CHEERS!