Oh Boy, It’s Brewfest
For the second weekend in a row, Milwaukee hosts a big-time beer festival. Isn’t Milwaukee outstanding in the summer? The third annual Milwaukee Brewfest takes over McKinley Park (1600 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr.) at 2 p.m. for those with VIP tickets (general admission entry starts at 3 p.m.). As far as beer tastings go, this one’s a biggie. More than 70 breweries are offering over 300 beers for your sampling pleasure (please don’t try them all). There are too many standout attendees to mention but some of my favorites include Bell’s, Founders, Oskar Blues, Sixpoint, Sierra Nevada, and a solid representation of Wisconsin breweries. There will also be food and music to keep you busy while you’re enjoying some of the finest beer on the planet. General admission tickets are $40 online or $45 at the door. It’s a good idea to pick yours up before you go because VIP tickets are already sold out.
The IPA Day Countdown Continues
We’re inching closer to IPA Day on Aug. 2, and my daily consumption of one IPA a day is coming along nicely. This week’s standout is actually an American Pale Ale (I happen to love the style and I figured I would include it in the countdown…beer purists please forgive me). Moon Man by New Glarus was my favorite beer of the week. It is smooth, sessionable, lightly bitter, and not a horrible choice on a 100-degree day. Another standout, and one that’s been popping up around Milwaukee, was the Goose Island Imperial IPA. I had a snifter of it at Erv’s Mug (130 W. Ryan Rd.), and found it to be big and bold with an odd (but pleasant) slightly smoky finish. Give it a try, but be warned, it’s not for the timid.
Barley Pop of the Week
A trip to Bay View and a stop at Burnhearts (2599 S. Logan Ave.) is always a good idea. When the friendly corner tavern has a beer like Hinterland Whiteout Imperial IPA on tap, it’s an even better idea. The potent barrel-aged elixir has a nice blend of hops and malt, and a noticeable bourbon finish. The fact that it’s a slow sipper just meant I was able to spend more quality time at Burnhearts.
Quick Taps
At the International Cycling Classic last Saturday, Henry’s Pub (2523 E. Belleview Pl.) had a barrel of Bell’s Oberon set up at a sidewalk bar. For some odd reason it was the best Oberon I’ve ever had.
Today (Monday) is the last day to get your entry in for Sprecher’s Grilling with Beer contest. Find a gas grill recipe that includes Sprecher beer and beef and submit it for a chance to head to the grill off that the Wisconsin State Fair. Mmmm, beer and beef.
Events Brewing
Thursday, July 26: New Belgium takes center stage at Romans’ Pub (3475 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.) at 6 p.m. Owner Mike Romans is tapping a barrel of the Lost Abbey/New Belgium collaboration Mo’ Betta Bretta and a New Belgium Tart Lychee. There’s also a sausage and cheese pairing and free globe glasses with the purchase of a 1554 Black Ale or Ranger IPA.
Thursday, July 26: Hinterland (222 E. Erie St.) hosts a six course “nose-to-tail” beer dinner with an heirloom grass fed large black hog as the “guest of honor”. The event runs from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and tickets are a reasonable $65. Call 727-9300 for reservations.
Friday, July 27: Lakefront Brewery founder Jim Klisch pairs four cheeses with Lakefront beers at 7 p.m. at the Cheese Bar (1048 N. Old World Third). Cost is $12
Saturday, July 28: Taste “style blend” beers from 1 to 4 p.m. at Three Cellars (7133 S. 76th St.)
