I caught the episode of “Abandoned” on the National Geographic channel last week that depicted the three guys on the show rummaging through the old Pabst Brewery and then haggling with affable owner Jim Haertel over the artifacts they “found.” The show would have been way more interesting if I didn’t already know that some of the parts of the brewery they toured are readily available to see when Mr. Haertel is manning the bar at the Best Place Tavern (901 W. Juneau Ave.) in the brewery.
The folks at Nat Geo embellished quite a bit (I loved the dramatic cutting of the padlock at the beginning) but I understand that’s how television works. It’s just too bad the show didn’t give more props to Haertel for his work turning the old place into an outstanding bar and gift shop. But again, that’s television. Note: You can see a lot of what the dudes from the show saw if you head to Best Place during Doors Open Milwaukee on Sept. 22 and 23. I highly recommend it.
One Day, Two Very Different Beer Tastings
Saturday, Sept. 15 offers contrasting styles of the great event known as the beer tasting. The Great Lakes Brewfest at the Racine Zoo (200 Goold St., Racine) from 3-7 p.m. is beer in a big way. Nearly 100 breweries and more than 4,000 beer aficionados will descend upon the Lake Michigan lakefront. The cost is just $45.
If you like your beer with a bit of wine and cheese then head to the Wilson Center for the Arts (19805 W. Capitol Dr.) for Art by Design: Beer, Wine and Cheese. Eleven outstanding breweries will be doling out 28 of their beers to sample with tasty cheeses. It’s a bargain at just $35.
Another Heads Up for a Couple of Events at Ray’s
Tastings at Ray’s Wine & Spirits always (yes always) sell out. So, here’s your friendly reminder about two upcoming events that haven’t sold out quite yet. Mark your calendar. Both start at 6:30 p.m. and both cost just $15. Call 258-9821 to make a reservation.
Wednesday, Oct. 10 is a tasting with Capital Brewing brewmaster Kirby Nelson. The highlight of Nelson’s visit is the Autumnal Fire Doppelbock.
Tuesday, Oct. 30 is when New Belgium’s Christian Holbrook comes to town with an ample supply of Fat Tire, Red Hoptober, Ranger IPA and a few more.
Barley Pop of the Week
At the request of someone who knows my beer drinking preferences, I snagged a bottle of Ale Asylum Ambergeddon last week. It’s a good thing I did. I liked the combo of mild malt sweetness and bitter hops. One of my favorite beers is Ale Asylum’s Bedlam!, and I suppose it shouldn’t have been much of a surprise that Ambergeddon and I would get along.
Quick Taps
Football season is here. Which is a good thing.
I’m going to try to get into Oktoberfest beers this fall. I’ve got a mentor who’s an aficionado, and it’s always nice to have guidance.
Events Brewing
Friday, Sept. 14: Shock Top samples at Discount Liquor Milwaukee (5031 W. Oklahoma Ave.) from 5-7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 14: Oregon’s Bridgeport Brewing will be at Discount Liquor Waukesha (919 N. Barstow Ave.) from 4-7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 15: Taste “California beers” at Three Cellars (7133 S. 76th St.) from 1-4 p.m.
