Beers - Houston Beer Guide https://houstonbeerguide.com Online beer news and reviews for the city of Houston Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:43:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.6.13 Headed out West to meet Downtown Dusty https://houstonbeerguide.com/headed-out-west-to-meet-downtown-dusty/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/headed-out-west-to-meet-downtown-dusty/#respond Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:43:02 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=6105 Katy residents are fortunate to have a mayor who not only supports but savors craft beer. William “Dusty” Thiele and No Label Brewing Co. have collaborated on an Amber Lager to honor his contributions to the city they proudly represent. Dubbed “Downtown Dusty,” this amber lager is currently a seasonal offering, but I’m making a

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Katy residents are fortunate to have a mayor who not only supports but savors craft beer. William “Dusty” Thiele and No Label Brewing Co. have collaborated on an Amber Lager to honor his contributions to the city they proudly represent. Dubbed “Downtown Dusty,” this amber lager is currently a seasonal offering, but I’m making a strong case for its year-round presence. If you’ve read any of my past articles, you’ll know my fondness for ambers, so when I heard about this brew, I had to journey to Katy and spread the word about this new addition to my beloved beer style.

Downtown Dusty

Downtown Dusty boasts a color true to the amber style, pouring a gorgeous amber or golden-red hue with a creamy white head. The aroma is subtly malty and bready, enticing you to take a deep breath and savor the moment. With the first sip, the maltiness smoothly envelops your palate, urging you to take larger sips than usual. Following the initial malty notes, you’ll notice a delightful interplay of bready and caramel flavors, complementing each other beautifully. On the finish, a faint floral note emerges, accompanied by a mild hop presence that refreshes your palate just enough.

Now, after geeking out over Downtown Dusty’s flavors, let me tell you why I believe it’s the perfect beer for spring and summer—especially in Houston, where they’re practically one and the same. At 5%, Downtown Dusty is crushable, allowing you to enjoy multiple without feeling weighed down, making it ideal for tackling those tasks you’ve been procrastinating, like yard work. Its crispness leaves your mouth dry enough to crave another sip.

And the convenience doesn’t stop there—Downtown Dusty is available in cans to-go and can be found at local grocery stores, making it accessible wherever you are. Plus, the can’s artwork by Kevin Dyer captures downtown Katy and its historic silos and rail line, adding a touch of local history to your beer experience. Be sure to swing by the taproom or check your local grocery store shelves for Downtown Dusty, and if you need assistance locating it, feel free to shoot me a message on IG.

Cheers!

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Stout Fest 2024 at Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring https://houstonbeerguide.com/stout-fest-2024-at-excalibur-brewing-in-old-town-spring/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/stout-fest-2024-at-excalibur-brewing-in-old-town-spring/#respond Sat, 13 Jan 2024 20:09:45 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5858 When is the right time to drink a stout? The answer is ‘right now’. If you’ve read any of my articles or ever had a conversation with me about beer you’ll know that I’m all about that stout life. When I heard Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring announced the 2nd annual Stout Fest 2024, you know

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When is the right time to drink a stout? The answer is ‘right now’.

If you’ve read any of my articles or ever had a conversation with me about beer you’ll know that I’m all about that stout life. When I heard Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring announced the 2nd annual Stout Fest 2024, you know I had to get the inside scoop. Stout Fest 2024 will be held at Excalibur Brewing on Saturday January 27th, where 11 breweries including Excalibur will be showcasing their finest stouts. This ticketed event will let you taste beer from several breweries in one location. With your general admission entry, you will receive a 4 oz taster glass and 8 taster tickets starting at noon for only $45. VIP ticket admission allows you to enter a hour early to enjoy unlimited samplings of the stouts and an additional taster tickets and access to refreshments – all for $80. You can buy additional tickets at the bar if you want a bit extra to enjoy. If you do not purchase a ticket, you will not be able to enter the brewery or order beer until 6PM as it will be closed exclusively for Stout Fest ticket holders only. Treat this like a private stout party with all our closest darkest friends. I am looking forward to this year’s Arthur’s Tomb variant. Peanut butter variant was a big hit before, and Red Velvet is currently on tap – I wonder what it will be this year?

Gourd in the Stone pour in the taproom

The breweries in attendance for this year’s Stout Fest are Equal Parts, DECA, Location Six, Brew: 30, Misfit Outpost, Frankenboltzzz, Brash, Devil and the Deep, Megaton, and Turkey Forrest Brewing. The way Stout Fest works is each brewery will offer two different stouts for you to sample, so that’s over 20 samples of stouts available to you! With this stacked line up of breweries, there is no wrong decision on which you pick!

Breweries participating in Stout Fest

I was able to enjoy the collaboration beer designed between Excalibur and Frankenboltzzz while I visited. This golden stout aged with tres leches cake had a well balanced sweetness with soft coffee tones – very tasty! Each brewery will also have merchandise on site so you can show your support for them by purchasing shirts, stickers and hats. 

Purchase your tickets for Stout Fest at: https://excaliburbrewing.com/stout-fest-2024-ticket-sales/ 

With only two weeks until the event, you better hurry because the tickets are flying fast. There is plenty of seating available however if you would like to bring your lawn chairs to create your own camp, you’re more than welcome to. Parking is not a challenge either – there is a lot that is available on the corner of Border and Prairie, but since there are plenty of stouts to go around, we recommend ride sharing. Designated driver tickets are also available for $20 for individuals who want to attend but will not be drinking. Please have fun but be responsible.

No beer festival is complete without live music.

To keep you entertained Excalibur Brewing will host Mississippi Smile, Tab Cocchia, and Background Noise HTX.

Live music schedule during Stout Fest

Galexy Concessions just opened up next door to Excalibur so you can walk over and get a bite to eat or enjoy additional food vendors on site. Rustic Barrel will be on site selling BBQ, and Maine Lobster will be serving up their famous lobster dishes.

I am looking forward to celebrating local made stouts at this event. Bring a friend or make a date out of it. Other Houston Beer contributors will be available during the event to chat about all the way you can help support local craft beer too. See you there!

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Free & Easy N/A Belgian White from Karbach Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/free-easy-n-a-belgian-white-from-karbach/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/free-easy-n-a-belgian-white-from-karbach/#respond Sat, 13 Jan 2024 03:16:49 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5848 Before you assume I’m doing a “dry January”, correct yourself right now. Full disclosure, I didn’t purchase this beer either. Karbach was kind enough to ship a few cans to me so here we are. You guys remember the last time I went on the hunt for a good N/A beer right? It didn’t end

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Before you assume I’m doing a “dry January”, correct yourself right now. Full disclosure, I didn’t purchase this beer either. Karbach was kind enough to ship a few cans to me so here we are. You guys remember the last time I went on the hunt for a good N/A beer right? It didn’t end well. Athletic was top tier choice and everything else kinda sank. I tried every single one I could get my hands on. Guinness’s N/A was another one that checked the boxes for what I would consider, a whole beer. Overall, I just couldn’t find anything that tasted like the beers I enjoyed drinking. Crisp, hoppy, flavorful.. you know…the good stuff. That was at least a year ago and it’s clear that the industry has been adjusting recipes and getting better at it. Getting so good that they say that the next beer trend is “sober” drinking.

Free & Easy at home

To my surprise, this Belgian White style ale beer was very enjoyable to drink. Really felt like a complete beer on my palete. The traditional Belgian-style white beer is made with malted barley and unmalted wheat and sometimes oats or spelt too. It is spiced with a touch of hops to keep the bitterness low but carries notes of light coriander and citrus orange peel. Paired with a Belgian yeast character it’s mildy fruity and has subtle spice flavor notes. The appearance of white beer is usually pale yellow in color with a slight haziness and a rich, foamy head. The aroma is citrusy, spicy, and fruity and the body is light. Perhaps a bit too light?

The taste is balanced with light malt and wheat flavors, and has a bright pop of citrus on the nose. I am not gonna suggest you throw an orange slice in it for the Blue Moon effect but you could! The alcohol content of traditional white beer is usually between 4.5% and 5.0% ABV but sitting at 0.5%, this beer is perfect for those that enjoy drinking the more traditional beer styles and want to give their liver a break. After all, it’s good to start fresh with the new year, free from alcohol and easy to enjoy.

If you run across this beer in town, give it a taste. It might not be your favorite beer to drink every day but it’s well executed beer example of a traditional style. The no alcohol part? Your body says thank you. You deserve a break – free yourself and take it easy.

A pour of Free & Easy

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A Beer To Remember in 2023 https://houstonbeerguide.com/a-beer-to-remember-in-2023/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/a-beer-to-remember-in-2023/#respond Sun, 31 Dec 2023 17:11:12 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5821 As we say goodbye to 2023, let’s take a moment to reflect and remember all the tasty #HoustonBeer we enjoyed this year. Many beers stood out but only one beer can be crowned the beer to remember this year. We asked our contributor team and they delivered with their comments on which beer was their

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As we say goodbye to 2023, let’s take a moment to reflect and remember all the tasty #HoustonBeer we enjoyed this year. Many beers stood out but only one beer can be crowned the beer to remember this year. We asked our contributor team and they delivered with their comments on which beer was their beer to remember.

“What was your most memorable beer this year?”

Scotch Panda from Elder Son Brewing

Scotch Panda

I will admit personal bias immediately, but my favorite Houston area beer release for 2023 has to be “Scotch Panda”, a late February release from Elder Son Brewing.  Scotch Panda was a 5.1% ABV Scottish Export Ale that oozed a sweet and smooth, yet perfectly malty, flavor with a little hint of chocolate going down. Being able to come in with Robert Frye of Elder Son and brew this beer was an amazing experience (I wish I could capture the smell of the boil tank that day and turn that into endless amounts of candles), but to have a moderate ABV beer with so much flavor come out of it was even better.  I am going to cross my fingers and hope, just maybe, Scotch Panda makes a return one day. 

– Jackie @JackieVonPanda

Chill Brah from Project Halo Brewing

Chill Brah

If I’m picking the beer that had the biggest impression on me then I’d have to look no further than Project Halo’s Chill Brah 4.9% ABV, a seasonal black ale with rice. I remember the day I went out to Fulshear to get some more of this beer because it went down so smoothly. For a beer being so black, you’d expect it to be heavier yet it’s deceptively light. Chill Brah was roasty and bold but provided a crushable experience. I remember someone asking what beer I was having in the taproom and I told them “Chill Brah”. After reassuring them that it was in fact the name of the beer, and not me being confrontational, the bar sold nearly 20 pints in a matter of 30 minutes. I was excited to tell everyone about how great of a beer this was and will continue to beat the drum loudly till it makes its return.

Ronnie R. @Mxc_ronnie

Fresh Love Double IPA from Spindletap Brewery

Bob Marley was once quoted saying “You may not be her first, her last, or her only. She loved before, she may love again. But if she loves you now, what else matters?” … And I will definitely love this beer again.

Choosing only one beer for the year was tough but Fresh Love DIPA 8.5% ABV is my final pick for beer of the year in 2023. Spawning from the recipe of One Love, a Simcoe and Nugget focused double IPA, Spindletap Brewery took a spin off the dank tropical vibes and remixed this year’s batch with fresh Simcoe hops. Brewed with Yakima Chief’s frozen fresh hops, this beer was the perfect balance of tropical and grassy notes. Distinct dank quality along with a cornucopia of fruit aromas like sweet pineapple, zesty grapefruit, and candied orange dominate with a very delicious resinous backbone. The perfect IPA for old school IPA drinkers like me and those that want to experience their love of IPAs for the very first time.

Sylvia @HoustonBeerMother

What was your favorite beer of 2023?

Send us an email at cheers@houstonbeerguide.com and let us know!

Have a safe and joyous Happy New Year!

See you in 2024.

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Ingenious Brewing Company announces closure https://houstonbeerguide.com/ingenious-brewing-announces-closure/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/ingenious-brewing-announces-closure/#respond Tue, 26 Dec 2023 21:57:12 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5794 Officially announced on Facebook, the circling rumors about Ingenious Brewing closure is in fact – confirmed true. Ingenious made the official post this morning. How do you say goodbye to a brewery you’ve been visiting since the beginning, made countless memories from, built great friendships and was the place you started your craft beer adventures

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Officially announced on Facebook, the circling rumors about Ingenious Brewing closure is in fact – confirmed true. Ingenious made the official post this morning.

Ingenious Closing Announcement on Facebook

How do you say goodbye to a brewery you’ve been visiting since the beginning, made countless memories from, built great friendships and was the place you started your craft beer adventures at? I would like to start by first saying, this sucks. Really sucks!

January 6th will be Ingenious’s official last day open. As someone who supported them through every twist and turn the industry saw, it hit me hard to hear this news. I spent so much time & money at this brewery and stood up for them in many ways. Like many other die hard Ingenious fans, I often went out of my way to share beers I was drinking on social media to spread the love and never left the taproom without buying beer to go. I loved walking in and everyone immediately starts shouting and cheering, truly excited that I was there. This was the one place I could count on feeling right at home. Ingenious even participated in this past year’s Houston Beer Block Party and was quite popular on the block, kicking 3 kegs that day! Much love to them for keeping stouts on year round too. It’s safe to say that Ingenious has etched a special place in my heart that I will never forget.

Stouts year around at Ingenious

Normally I’m known for being the serious and strictly beer focused writer with my articles but I want to use this time to acknowledge all the employees I’ve gotten to know over the years and the memories they’ve help create. This team was the pillar of Ingenious Brewing Co. From bullying Graham during trivia with team names themed around him, to laughing with Casey aka DJ C-Note every time I visited. I enjoyed having in depth conversations with him about the Oilwell vending machine in the lobby. Talking metal and music with Krista, she always knew what beers I was walking in for, and Jason being there a short time but being someone who got my humor. There was never a dull moment with him and I loved sampling michelada prototypes he was working on. Derek and I would geek out on beer and he would motivate me to add adjuncts to my home brew to get the desired “Ingenious” effect. Alex and I have had a few moments of me sharing beers from all over and I will certainly miss these conversations. Lee and the funny beers named after him during his birthday celebration, and the night he needed help kicking a keg of a barrel aged stout along with the headache that followed the next morning.  James and I would talk sports and sample beers from the brite tank. James took great pride in all of his beers and loved helping with social media even going emo for a night that will forever live in infamy. Such good times to remember.

Head brewer James in the dunk tank

So I ask you, please raise a glass to the hardworking team that has ever been a part of Ingenious power house. I wish each and every one of them the best of luck on their future path forward.

It’s not too late to support. Join me in these final days and let’s help them clear out some inventory by buying merchandise, glassware, beer, and stickers to forever have a piece of Humble history. Before you leave, get your hands on the Brewers Reserve. This year’s was aged in still Austin barrels for two years giving that barrel aged finished we all know and love. It’s smooth chocolate note along with a beautiful roast to balance out the bourbon barrel is very delicious. This beer represents James’ focus on his amazing stouts as they only use the barrel and his base recipe. Feeling sour? We know you are. Go get the last batch of Elf’s Blood, a Christmas tradition that comes out every December. Ingenious wasn’t just known for their crazy adjunct focused beers, but was really keeping things fresh with lager and crispy as of late. Go get Layover in Vienna or Das Crisp to quench that thirst. Want a hazy IPA? On Comet and C1000 will definitely not let you down. Channel your inner beer nerd and drink the black IPA aptly named Come and drink it.

Imperial King Cake – Ingenious Brewing

I am really going to miss this place. Very sad to see it go.

In case you haven’t noticed, Houston Beer needs your love. With breweries dropping out left and right, the beer fans in this area need to rally together to save these local businesses before it’s too late. Please support your local breweries if you can. Your support and contribution is appreciated more that you know.

Ingenious Brewing Company is located at 1986 S Houston Ave, Humble, TX 77396.

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Beer Reviews: Saint Arnold Brewing – French Press Coffee Porter 🆚 Tarnation Strong Ale https://houstonbeerguide.com/beer-reviews-saint-arnold-brewing-french-press-coffee-porter-%f0%9f%86%9a-tarnation-strong-ale/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/beer-reviews-saint-arnold-brewing-french-press-coffee-porter-%f0%9f%86%9a-tarnation-strong-ale/#respond Tue, 26 Dec 2023 21:22:37 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5796 New video from Dan Beck featuring 2 beers from Saint Arnold Brewing.

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New video from Dan Beck featuring 2 beers from Saint Arnold Brewing.

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Huggy Bear Continues Brewing Up Excellence at Holler Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/huggy-bear-continues-brewing-up-excellence-at-holler-brewing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/huggy-bear-continues-brewing-up-excellence-at-holler-brewing/#respond Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:21:22 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5782 Nestled in the middle of the Sawyer Yards area, just northwest of Downtown, resides Holler Brewing.  Founded by Kathryn and John Holler in 2016, the brewery has become a popular Houston hangout ever since.  Well known for their award-winning beers Dollar Pils Y’all and their namesake Extra Special Bitter (ESB), John decided to sell the

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Nestled in the middle of the Sawyer Yards area, just northwest of Downtown, resides Holler Brewing.  Founded by Kathryn and John Holler in 2016, the brewery has become a popular Houston hangout ever since.  Well known for their award-winning beers Dollar Pils Y’all and their namesake Extra Special Bitter (ESB), John decided to sell the brewery in early 2022.  Shortly after the sale, industry veteran and much beloved local brewer James “Huggy Bear” Wolfe was brought in to take over as Head Brewer of Holler, and he has continued the Holler tradition of putting out high quality beer while maintaining the integrity of John Holler’s original recipes. 

The taproom lit by hop lamps at night.

After coming across Wolfe in a recent Houston beer related online discussion thread, he extended an invitation to stop by the brewery and try some of Holler’s recent releases.  The first beer I tired was the recently Black Friday release, Dark Artifact.  This barrel aged Imperial Stout pours a dark black, and at 9% ABV.  It is very smooth for a barrel aged beer, with distinct notes of bourbon and a light, roasty flavor.  According to Wolfe, this year’s release of Dark Artifact was aged for seven months in William Price Rye Whiskey barrels.  Wolfe did mention to me that next year’s drop has already been brewed and barreled, and will get just over a full year of barrel aging in before being ready for release next year.   

The second beer I tried during my visit was one of Holler’s Seventh Anniversary releases, an Imperial West Coast IPA named Lucky 7’s.  The name goes along with the brewery’s casino anniversary theme, with the other themed beers released for the Anniversary including Poker Face Pucker (a mixed berry fruited sour), Jackpot Juice (a hazy IPA) and In the Money (a west coast pilsner).  Lucky 7’s was brewed with a collection of ten different hops that resulted in a smooth and dangerous 9.5% ABV brew.  Lucky 7’s went down a little bit too easy, but by the time I got to the bottom of the pint it had made its presence felt.  

A tall pour of Lucky 7’s

In talking with Wolfe more, the conversation led to his journey to Holler.  Having gotten his start in home brewing many years ago, his interest in the industry eventually led to him joining on as an unpaid volunteer at No Label back in 2011.  After a year plus as a volunteer, Wolfe decided to leave his long-time aerospace engineering career behind and go full time into brewing.  He spent a little over six years at No Label as a volunteer, brewer, and eventually Head Brewer.  Wolfe additionally spent time at Southern Star Brewing in Conroe before moving on to become a Co-Founder and Head Brewer at Local Group Brewing.  After almost four years at Local Group, Wolfe made his jump to Holler and says he is enjoying his newest role tremendously. 

When asked what Holler has coming up for 2024, Wolfe replied “More events and more beer.”  It is obvious Wolfe doesn’t want to give too much away with the new year weeks away. He did mention that Holler will continue to innovate heading into the new year, including more barrel aged beers and creative uses of hops in future releases (and not just IPA’s), but will also continue to stay true to the history of the brewery and its historically popular beers.  When asked if Holler will be expanding further to take over more footprint in their current location, as has been suggested by internet rumors, Wolfe added “Nothing concrete for now, but we’re always keeping an eye out for opportunities and planning how to grow smartly.”

Entrance View at Holler Brewing

Holler Brewing is open normally seven days a week, and is always cycling though new releases, along with its house classics.  There is amble outdoor patio space available along with indoor seating.  There is also always to go options in the cold case by the bar in case you want to take a little bit of Holler home with you.

Holler Brewing is located at 2206 Edwards St. Suite A, 77007. Follow their socials at @hollerbeer (on Instagram)or visit them on the web at https://hollerbeer.com.

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Taste of Texas Experience at the Texas Renaissance Festival with North Shepherd Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/taste-of-texas-experience-at-the-texas-renaissance-festival-with-north-shepherd-brewing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/taste-of-texas-experience-at-the-texas-renaissance-festival-with-north-shepherd-brewing/#respond Wed, 22 Nov 2023 23:57:24 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5720 This past weekend I attended my favorite themed weekend of faire season, Highland Fling at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Bringing in the new Fall season is the ideal opportunity for bonfires, beers, and the glorious sight of Scottish tartan kilts blowing in the wind of the smoke-filled woods of Todd Mission, Texas. A last-minute decision

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This past weekend I attended my favorite themed weekend of faire season, Highland Fling at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Bringing in the new Fall season is the ideal opportunity for bonfires, beers, and the glorious sight of Scottish tartan kilts blowing in the wind of the smoke-filled woods of Todd Mission, Texas. A last-minute decision allowed me to extend my camping weekend and freeing up time to attend the Sunday beer tasting hosted by Alan Ward, brewmaster of Brigadoon Brewery. Each weekend during faire season, this beer tasting event showcases a rotation of different local craft breweries from around the city highlighting the beer through tasting & story telling. These classes include samples of different beers which are only available during the class with, question/answer sit down with the brewer, a salty snack and collectible pint glass that includes a full pour of beer. The stars aligned, I scored a Sunday admission ticket and lucky for me, the newest #Houstonbeer beer brand, North Shepherd Brewing was in the house!

The view from outside the brewery. @HoustonBeerMother – IG – Shot with Meta View glasses

Formally named and operated as Astral Brewery, North Shepherd Brewing is led by experienced Houston brewer and local family man, Sam Wright. Loaded down with brewing experience and know-how from Saint Arnold, Holler, and Gristworks, Sam explains that his mission for North Shepherd brewery is simple: Make refreshing uncomplicated beers for all those to enjoy. No gimmicks, no bs, just good beer in a comfortable community spot. A local watering hole where you can always depend on enjoying traditional beer styles brewed in the best way possible.

Scheduled for 1pm Sunday morning, we arrived on time to be greeted and checked in by Alan Ward, brewmaster of Brigadoon Brewery. This small intimate seating space was perfect for interacting with other 11 guests in attendance. At the start of the session, Alan outlined a few basic tips on the proper way to taste beer through aroma and flavor sensory. Each guest also received a large salty pretzel to help clear the palate between beers. And boy, this pretzel sure was making me thirsty!

Alan Ward and Sam Wright enjoying a few tastes themselves.

As Alan poured the rounds – the conversation of the new North Shepherd brand and taproom space began. Sam introduced each beer by style, along with a brief overview of flavor and its story. He also explained a bit more detail on why the pivot from Astral brand was so important. Not only are the beer styles different from the ones seen at Astral but it was also a pivot back towards more traditional brewing styles for more approachable beers. For Sam, it was important that this change was also met with a fresh new brand name. New beers, taproom decor change, and overall new vibe. The beer is sold primarily from the taproom, but they are working on local distribution in select bars in the neighborhood. Don’t expect to find them in HEB or other big retailer anytime soon and the brewery has no plans to distro outside of Houston.

“Beer is meant to be enjoyed fresh & local when possible.” says Sam.

I couldn’t agree more.

Taste of Texas Beer Tasting at Brigadoon Brewery – @HoustonBeerMother – IG – Shot with Meta Smart Glasses

Here are the highlights of my beer tasting experience……

Mexican Lager 4.5% ABV – Runner up for my favorite beer of the tasting, this traditional light drinking lager was nicely balanced with a light honey grain malt background and crushable crispy finish. Right out of the gate, the group was very impressed and eagerly awaited the next beer.

Kolsch 4.9% ABV – STRAIGHT DELICIOUS. Light and very clean. Soft bready malt shines here and the sweetness is balanced by a restrained yet firm hop bitterness, offering a hint of spicy and herbal character. This Kölsch achieves perfection in its drinkability and is a beer that effortlessly bridges the gap between complexity and approachability. My personal favorite of the tasting – I’m imagine this should sell well in the taproom.

Festbier 5.5% ABV – This beer features a gentle toasty character that adds depth and complexity, creating a malt-forward profile that pays homage to the festbier tradition. The sweetness is tempered by a mild earthy hop bitterness, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that invites another sip. The perfect beer to huzzah to! 🍻

Yale St. IPA 6.5% ABV – Sam made it pretty clear that hazy IPAs were not his thing but boy was I happy to see this one! This hazy IPA featured subtle notes of earthy Nelson Sauvin hops balanced with a clean hoppy finish. Very enjoyable. Side note: It felt like a crime to watch the non-IPA drinker at the session leave this one alone. Well balanced. Don’t like to chew your IPAs? You don’t have to with this one – give this one a try.

West 43rd Street IPA 7.4% ABV – More medium bitter West Coast style IPA. Citrus undertones with a touch of bitterness. Not a palate wrecker and leans more malt forward to me. Good starter IPA for someone who is new to hops. Probably my favorite of the IPA set.

Durham Dr. Hazy IPA 7% ABV – This beer featured a more tropical flair than the others. Featuring Comet, Strata and Citra hops, it was brighter with citrus notes and had a creamier mouthfeel than the rest. Another stellar example of a hazy ipa without all the heavy weight.

The full North Shepherd Brewing Line Up. @HoustonBeerMother – IG

We finished up the beer tasting with a full pint of the beer – so of course I picked the Kolsch which was being poured by the creator himself. Consider taking some time this holiday season to visit the new North Shepherd. The quality of the beers shared during the beer tasting was exceptional which is hard to say about most breweries especially new ones. Not one single off flavor detected or weird indescribable notes – every beer was hella crisp and clean. If you are serious about traditional beer styles brewed the right way with a down to earth community vibe, you are in good hands with North Shepherd Brewing.

Sam Wright – North Shepherd Brewing

Interested in attending this event? The last Taste of Texas Beer Tasting hosted by Brigadoon Brewery is scheduled with Southern Star Brewery’s Dave Fougeron. Get your tickets today – order on Brigadoon Brewery website.

Till next year, let’s give a hip hip huzzah to all local beer craft beer drinkers this Thanksgiving season. While you are sitting at the table this year, be sure to remember brewers like Sam and Alan, who believe traditionally brewed beer will never go out of style. We are thankful for the skill that goes into making these quality beverages that we all very much enjoy.

HIP HIP HUZZZZZAHHHH!

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Star Sailor hosts very first Fallfest Brewfest https://houstonbeerguide.com/star-sailor-hosts-very-first-fallfest-brewfest/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/star-sailor-hosts-very-first-fallfest-brewfest/#respond Wed, 08 Nov 2023 02:32:51 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5703 On Sunday, November 5th Star Sailor held their very first Fallfest Brewfest at the establishment. The festival featured nine Greater Houston and Galveston area breweries as well as local vendors. The weather outside was perfectly warm, creating the perfect opportunity to try beer, cider and spiked root beer samplings while enjoying some of the house

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On Sunday, November 5th Star Sailor held their very first Fallfest Brewfest at the establishment. The festival featured nine Greater Houston and Galveston area breweries as well as local vendors. The weather outside was perfectly warm, creating the perfect opportunity to try beer, cider and spiked root beer samplings while enjoying some of the house made smash burgers that Star Sailor has become famous for across the city. 

FallFest at Star Sailor

The lineup for the event included Backyard Brewing, Galveston Bay Brewing, Elder Son Brewing, Under the Radar, Devil and the Deep, Devin’s Spiked Root Beer, Strong Arm Brew Works, Houston Cider Co. and New Magnolia Brewing. To commemorate the event, two different custom taster glasses were available for purchase at the event, courtesy of Drete Customs.(@dretecustoms on IG) 

Event glassware by Drete Customs

The participant breweries for the event lined up in their respective tents outside of Star Sailor in the parking lot, which created an organized and free flowing event to walk around and offered goers a chance to speak with many of the owners and head brewers of the attending fermented libation enterprises one on one! 

Galveston Bay Brewing brought out Bolivar Bock, and a 6.0% ABV traditional style Bock that just very recently released by the brewery. Galveston Bay Head Brewer Skyler Forshage was on hand for the event and was very pleased to be able to share this with the fest goers. I am never one to turn down a chance for a new release, and Bolivar Bock was perfect, refreshing way to start the day.  

Bolivar Bock from Galveston Bay Brewing

Another pour that caught my attention was the Vanilla Crème Spiked Soda from Devin’s Spiked Root Beer. Devin’s root beers are all wine based, gluten free, and a sneaky 8% ABV for all of the four versions they had on hand. Being one to step out of my comfort zones at times, I went for the cream soda flavored root beer, which is not even remotely close to being something I would go out of my way to get usually.  Devin’s managed to tone down the over-the-top vanilla flavor in this to make a smooth and enjoyable beverage that’s only for the adults! 

Devin’s Spiked Root Beer booth

When asked, Marin Slanina, owner of Star Sailor, mentioned that the planning for this event came together after a successful event at Brewchachos back in September. Star Sailor is already gearing up for their Third Anniversary coming up in December, and if Sunday’s turn out is any indication, that party will be packed.

Follow Star Sailor on social media for most up to date upcoming event details.

@star_sailor_htx (IG) 

https://starsailorhtx.com

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OktoBEERfest This Weekend at Back Pew Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/oktobeerfest-this-weekend-at-back-pew-brewing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/oktobeerfest-this-weekend-at-back-pew-brewing/#respond Thu, 05 Oct 2023 18:56:35 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5675 Back Pew Brewing is widely known for having some of the best lagers in Houston and their OktoBEERfest each year is a great opportunity for them to showcase their specialty. As a German lager lover, I make sure to never miss this event. This Saturday October 7th, Back Pew Brewing will be hosting their annual OktoBEERfest at

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Back Pew Brewing is widely known for having some of the best lagers in Houston and their OktoBEERfest each year is a great opportunity for them to showcase their specialty. As a German lager lover, I make sure to never miss this event.

This Saturday October 7th, Back Pew Brewing will be hosting their annual OktoBEERfest at their brewery – also known as the Sanctuary. Located in Porter TX on several acres of land, Back Pew has a spacious outdoor space with plenty of shade to stay cool in while enjoying some great beers. Don’t worry about parking either – the ample onsite parking space and event parking attendant will get you in and out with ease. To top it off, Back Pew is always pet and family friendly and will be pulling out all the stops to make an enjoyable experience for all that attend. 

Like any true Oktoberfest event, there are plenty of activities to accompany good ole beer drinking. This year’s fun includes a stein holding contest, stein racing, keg toss, and more games that I don’t want to spoil that are sure to give you a laugh. The popular Homebrewed Brass Ensemble will be on the main outdoor stage with all the polka and beer drinking songs you can handle. If you’ve never had the fortune of experiencing them do yourself a favor and get a good spot-on site to hear them play. You can also bring your lawn chairs and create your own area for a bit more space to yourself. One of my favorite parts of OktoBEERfest is pairing the vast combo of lagers with delicious bites from local food truck, The Sauerkraut. Their amazing lineup of German food including beer brats and my personal favorite, the Schruben, can’t be beat. Don’t skip out on the pretzels that pair excellently with light drinker Kingsbrau on tap. The Webster Melting Company will be providing a variety of sandwiches during the event while Rosalia Urbano will be serving up delicious offerings including tacos and quesadillas. Still not enough? Gastrocraft is also joining in the fun with a full German inspired menu PLUS a limited amount of Corned Beef Reubens.

May be an image of rye bread
GastroCraft – Menu Item – Facebook

Our favorite feature, of course – BEER! While a few of my personal favorites are making a return, I know that I’ll be starting with Mast to Marzen 6.2% abv. This beer is a more traditional style for Oktoberfest, that holds nutty/darker flavors, while still meaning for all day drinking. Huzzah to that!

While you are there, be sure to try the newest beer Damned Dunkle – which will also be available in six packs to go. This limited run of packaged cans will go quick so snag your beer to go upon arrival.

Check out the full list of beer available for this event below.

Year-round Offerings:
Blue Testament
Hyper Light
Satyrs Swill
Lucy Wheat
Tanuki IPA
Apple Ale

Seasonal Brews:
King of the Helles
Kingsbrau
Me Beer
Black Habit

Oktoberfest Specific Beers:
Erica (German Pils)
ExALTation (Altbier)
Double Stanges (Kolsch)
Mast to Marzen (Marzen)
Back Pew Vator (Doppelbock)
Berliner Weisse
Damned Dunkel (Dunkel)
Zwickelbier (A lager brewed in collaboration with Nobi Public House in Webster)
Vienna Lager
Son of Satyr (Low ABV variant of Satyr’s Swill)

The event kicks off at noon – we hope to see you there! This might be your last chance to celebrate Oktoberfest season so don’t forget to dress for the occasion – lederhosen and dirndls are welcome! It’s time for beer drinking, excellent food with friends and merriment for the whole family.

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