“Ray’s TV” Debuts

“Ray’s TV” Debuts

Ray’s Wine & Spirits debuts a new video series, Starkbierfest comes to Madison, and what’s on tap around town.

The guys at Ray’s Wine & Spirits (8930 W. North Ave.) are getting into the video business. The first episode (of what appears to be many to come) showed up on YouTube last week. Orey Laev makes for a likable and energetic host, and the Ray’s folks know their stuff. Keep an eye out for episode No. 2.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlq1swv0SPo

Spending Saturday in Madison

The unique Starkbierfest takes over the Capital Brewery Bier Garten (7734 Terrace Ave., Madison) from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 14. It’s a tribute to the Paulaner monks who fasted during Lent, but subsisted on potent brews instead. Sample strong beers and sours from breweries like Sprecher, Lakefront, O’so and more for the low price of just $25. Only 500 tickets are available, so get yours soon if you expect to go.

Image courtesy of Sierra Nevada
Image courtesy of Sierra Nevada

Barley Pop of the Week

Sierra Nevada Hop Hunter IPA (right) uses hop oil distilled from fresh hops to create an aromatic brew with a fair amount of bitterness. The IPA has created a fair amount of buzz, and rightly so. Hop Hunter is a tasty brew that isn’t overpowering. It’s fairly crisp and has a slightly bitter but dry finish. A solid effort from the good folks at Sierra Nevada.

Quick Taps

Potosi Brewing is the brewery of the month at Story Hill BKC (5100 W. Bluemound Rd.) during March. That means the taps include Tangerine IPA, Belgian Tripel, Hefeweizen and the outstanding Templeton Slugger Barrel-Aged Oatmeal Stout.

Deschutes offers some handy tips about aging your beers.

Events Brewing

Tuesday, March 10: Barbecue and beer? Yes please. Atlas BBQ (1304 12th Ave., Grafton) hosts a Lakefront Brewery beer dinner at 6 p.m. For just $35 you get to sample six Lakefront brews, smoked duck breast, braised lamb shank and stout cake for dessert. Stop in or call 262-618-2181 to reserve a spot.

Wednesday, March 11: Another year and another Zombie Slam at Comet Cafe (1947 N. Farwell Ave.). Starting at 7 p.m. the Comet will have the amazing combo of Bell’s Hopslam and Three Floyds Zombie Dust on tap. Get there early hop heads.

Thursday, March 12: You can bet that there will be some tasty samples when the Milwaukee Beer Society highlights coffee beers from 6 to 9 p.m. at Best Place (901 W. Juneau Ave.). Cost is just $10.

Thursday, March 12: Milwaukee Brewing takes over the taps at Ray’s Growler Gallery. Celebrate an outstanding local brewery.

Friday, March 13: Capital Brewery brings samples to Discount Liquor Milwaukee (5031 W. Oklahoma Ave.) from 4 to 7 p.m.

Friday, March 13: The Uber Tap Room (1048 N. Old World Third St.) is pairing Door County Brewing beer and cheese starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are just $14.

Friday, March 13: Try brews from New Holland, including the delicious Dragon’s Milk, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Discount Liquor Waukesha (919 N. Barstow Ave.).

Saturday, March 14: New Holland will be at Discount Liquor Milwaukee from noon to 3 p.m. and Guinness visits from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 14: Guinness heads to Discount Liquor Waukesha from 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, March 14: The theme for the weekly tasting at Three Cellars (7133 S. 76th St.) is Beers to Convert Your Miller Drinking Friends.

Dan Murphy has been reviewing bars for Milwaukee Magazine for roughly 20 years. He’s been doing his own independent research in them for a few years more.