31 March 2014

Tailgate for Nothing 10: It Goes to Eleven | Saturday, April 19, 4:30pm

There's an old saying: If there's one constant in life, it's change.

Tailgate for Nothing is changing. Specifically, we'll be holding it at a different time and a different place than we have before. We decided to do this because to stay the regular course would require us to charge attendees a not-so-small admission fee. We didn't want to do this because the original purpose behind Tailgate for Nothing was to keep the event a low-cost, low-maintenance show. The new place will allow us to do that.

The other change in the event is that it'll be a traditional, old-timey tailgate because it'll be held in connection with a sporting event. In the past, we've made no secret that we are soccer fans, and now we have a team to call our own: Indy Eleven. We want to celebrate our new team, so that is another reason we're changing the location of the tailgate.

Just to be clear, you don't have to be an Indy Eleven or a soccer fan to come to the tailgate. Indeed, the purpose of the tailgate will still be the same: to share beer and food with each other. So if you don't plan to attend the Indy Eleven match that evening, that's okay. But we hope that you'll head into Carroll Stadium to watch Indy Eleven take on the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

So join us on Saturday, April 19 at 4:30pm for our next tailgate in the northwest corner of Indy Eleven's Parking Lot A on the IUPUI campus, just across the street from Carroll Stadium (see map below):


Note that there is a $10 parking fee to park in the lot.

Please bring beer to share with others. We don't expect you to bring super-special, ultra-rare beers, though we won't be disappointed if you do; just bring some tasty, non-macro beers.

In addition, here are tailgating rules imposed by the club. Please follow them because we want everyone to be safe and to respect the club's rules while having a good time:

- The lot will not be open before 4:30pm.
- Tailgating will be allowed on a first-come, first-served basis; saving spots is not allowed.
- One parking spot per purchased parking ticket. Additional adjacent spots may be purchased for tailgating use if available.
- Please keep all tables, chairs, coolers, barbeques, etc. within the designated parking stall.
- Tailgating will be limited to the lined parking space. Blocking of the drive lane is strictly prohibited.
- Open flames are permitted. All barbecue equipment left unattended must be extinguished.
- All cooking equipment must be situated away from crowds, buildings, vehicles or combustible materials. A minimum clearance distance of 3 feet is required.
- Bins for disposing of charcoal and port-a-let bathrooms will be located in each lot.
- No advertising, banners, signs or distribution items for promotional use are allowed in the lots.
- Tailgaters will be asked to remove inappropriate banners or signs.
- Music speakers may not exceed reasonable levels in the sole determination of Indy Eleven and event personnel.
- Lots must be cleared within 45 minutes of the conclusion of the event.
- Finally, please drink responsibly during the tailgate as any guests who appear to be impaired will not be permitted entrance into the stadium.

28 March 2014

Random Beer Roundup: The 'Brackets, Shmackets' Edition

Hoosier Beer Calendar

Events are subject to change



The Brewers

Triton Brewing in Lawrence:

TRITON HOUSE BREWS
Fieldhouse Wheat, Sin Bin Belgian Pale Ale, Four Barrel Brown, Magnificent Amber Ale, Deadeye Stout, Railsplitter India Pale Ale, Palesplitter Pale Ale, Pink Ribbon Saison, Three Tine Triple, Bee Java Brown, Alt Lang Syne, Bourbon Barrel Alt Lang Syne (2013), Grand Citra Station, Headsplitter­­ Imperial IPA and Double Deadeye Imperial Stout, Java Double Deadeye, Barrel Aged Alt Lang Syne (2013) (Sour) 
GUEST BREWS
New Day Meadery Barrel Aged Cherry Mead, Widmer’s Omission Lager and Widmer’s Omission Pale Ale

TRITON BREWING EVENTS
Wednesday, April 2, 6:30-8:30pm - College Night Beer Tasting at the Indiana Ice Game! Come taste some delicious Triton Beer and cheer for our “Hometown Team,” the Indiana Ice!
Wednesday, April 2, 6-10pm – Triton Beer Dinner at Sahm’s Place Beer Dinner featuring Triton Beers paired with Sahm's Place (East 65th Street) phenomenal cooking. Join us for a great menu paired with Railsplitter IPA, Three Tine Tripel, Pink Ribbon Saison and Deadeye Stout.
Thursday, April 3, 5pm – Hatchblower Pepper IPA Tapping! Titled after Gus Grissom’s nickname, who was inducted into the US Army Air Forces here at Ft. Ben, this IPA is flavored with green pepper, chipotles and jalapenos! Warming, fruity, peppery, fresh and delicious! (7% ABV; 70 IBU’s; Scoville Units: reasonable) With @KGSliderStation!
Saturday, April 5, 2014, 2-6pm - TAP at TAF TAP is an exclusive fund raising event for the Tippecanoe Arts Federation and provides the funds to offer arts programs and services to the 14 county region the Arts Federation serves in North Central Indiana. Join us at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation (638 North Street, Lafayette, IN, 47901)! Cost of tickets is VIP - $35.00; General Admission - $25.00; and Designated Drivers - $5.00. For more information, http://tippecanoearts.org/TAP.html.
Friday, April 11 (6-10pm)-Saturday, April 12 (1-8pm) - 22nd Annual Peoria International Beerfest at Exposition Gardens. This two-day festival combines the best of local food, music and craft beer! Proceeds from the Peoria International Beer Festival enable the Jaycees to support local charities and community projects throughout the year. For more information, tickets, etc..:www.peoriabeerfest.com
Saturday, April 12, 12-5pm – 4th Annual Blue Chip Casino Brewfest at The Stardust Event Center at Blue Chip Casino. Join Triton and other top microbreweries from around the nation as we gather to showcase unique flavors & different brews. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com or you can visit the Blue Chip Box Office! General Admission: $40; VIP Session: $75; Brewmaster: $99; Or, Designated Driver: $15. http://www.bluechipcasino.com/whats-new/events/4th-annual-blue-chip-brewfest
Saturday, April 12, 4-7pm - The Bloomington Craft Beer Festival at Woolery Mill makes its 4th appearance! Bloomington Craft Beer Festival is the proud winner of the 2013 “Best Festival” award from VISIT BLOOMINGTON. An impressive array of Indiana craft beer (150+ selections) served in the awe-inspiring Woolery Mill. Live music makes it lively, and great local food (available for purchase) makes it delicious too! General Admission $35 & Designated Driver $10. For more information: http://www.brewersofindianaguild.com/events



Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Co in Indianapolis:

Thr3e Wise Men Current Beers:
· Snow Bunny Blonde
· Two Lucys Blackberry Wheat
· Bulldog Brown
· Hubbard & Cravens Porter
· Rocky Ripple Pale Ale
· Golden Zoe IPA
· Centennial Martyr Double IPA
· Seasonal: Daddy's Juice Session IPA
· New: Omar's Revenge Green Tea Honey Kolsch

Current Hand Pull:
· Hubbard & Cravens Porter with Kenyan Coffee

Promotions:
· Are you a VIP Member? It is FREE to join! Become a member and after every 9 Growler Fills of Thr3e Wise Men Beer we will add $10 to your VIP Card.

Upcoming Beers:
· April: Hoppy Pale Wheat
· Tapping April 29th

Upcoming Events:
· Saturday April 5th: TAP at TAF in Lafayette, IN | 2:00pm - 6:00pm
· Saturday April 12th: Brewers Guild of Indiana Bloomington Beer Festival | 4:00pm - 7:00pm
· Are you planning a beer event and would like to have Thr3e Wise Men involved? Well let us know by emailing Ryan Kellerman.

Where to find our beer:
· New location: Beef 'O' Brady's in Granger, IN just tapped our Snow Bunny Blonde. Make sure to make it out and try a pint.
· We are in over 50 restaurants & bars around the state. You can check out ourwebsite for a full list of locations.
· Would you like to see Thr3e Wise Men at your favorite restaurant or bar? Well thenlet us know so we can reach out to them.


The Ram


Mug Club Monday (4/7/14)
Don't forget that the first Monday of every month is Mug Club Monday. All Mug Club Members get 50% off all food for parties of 8 or less.

NCAA Tournament:
 Be sure to come see us during the Midwest Regionals, AKA the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 on 3/28 and 3/30.
Brewer's Dinner, April 17th at Downtown location: 



Daredevil Brewing Co:

If you are a fan of our winter special releases then you should enjoy them where you find them at your favorite local bar & restaurant because we have shipped the lasts kegs of Muse Belgian Golden Ale, J.W.P. American Stout and Carnival Saison.

Our limited release Rip Cord Double IPA returned this week and can now be found at the following locations (or delivered and soon to be tap'd) and more coming every day
* Bloomington: The Tap
* Fishers: Rockstone Pizza
* Indianapolis: Ambrosia, Sahm's Place, Siam Square, The Mousetrap, Tomlinson Tap Room
* Lafayette: Black Sparrow
* West Lafeyette: The Pint
* Zionsville: Patrick's Kitchen & Drinks

Upcoming events
* Bloomington Craft Beer Festival, Saturday, April 12

Looking to find our beers? We try to keep draft locations up to date on website and post frequently to our Twitter and Facebook pages on can and draft locations across the state. We have more than 30 new locations to enjoy a Lift Off IPA since our update last month. Here is a list of some of the new locations, and if you know a place we should be just let us know.

Daredevil Brewing Co. | Current beers available

Lift Off IPA: Our flagship beer available year round in cans and on draft.
A bounty of American Hops delivers the signature clean and crisp finish of a perfectly balanced West Coast style IPA.

Rip Cord Double IPA: A limited release beer available on draft.
An abundance of American hops balanced with a hint of malt to produce an exhilarating experience of intense hop flavors and aromas of citrus, floral and resin that combine to provide a satisfying crisp finish. 
J.W.P. American Stout: A winter special release and our anniversary beer available on draft. Forged from the combination of nine grains and American hops to deliver a huge bouquet of aromas and abundant flavors of rich, silky espresso in an expressive American Stout with the spirit of the Wild West. 
Carnival Saison: A winter special release Belgian Saison style available on draft. A creative and artistic balance of spicy phenols, fruity esters, noble hops and Belgian malts with a classic dry and thirst quenching finish. 
Muse Belgian Golden Ale: A winter special release Belgian style ale available on draft. A creative and artistic balance of spicy phenols, fruity esters, noble hops and Belgian malts with a classic dry and thirst quenching finish.


Flat 12 Bierwerks in Indianapolis
First Friday’s at Tom Tap:
First Friday events are happening all over Indy, and it can be pretty hard to choose where you want to spend it. So, here is your chance to start it off early, NOON to be exact. Stop in Indy’s City Market and venture up to the Mezzanine Level of the Historic Market House (south west corner) and check out Tomlinson Tap Room. For April’s First Friday – next weekend – we will be tapping a version of our collaboration beer with Black Acre. So, what is this tasty beer you should ask for? Find out here.

Contest currently in progress at Flat 12:
Have you stopped by the Taproom lately? If you’ve not, pencil it into your weekend plans. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to tell us WHAT YOU WANT TO DRINK! That’s right, a few weeks ago we challenged you to put your thinking caps on and submit your own wacky ideas for a beer. So, what do we plan to do with these ideas? In May/June we will pick 8-10 ideas and brew them for this year’s Indiana Microbrew Festival at Opti Park in Broad Ripple on July 19. Want to get a jump start? Click here for more info and to view the layout of the submission form.

Keep a look out on:
· Indy: Pub Club at Elbow Room Pub. On April 2nd Flat 12 will be the beverage of choice. For more information and how to purchase tickets click here.
· Nashville: We are participating in the East Nashville Beer Fest for the 2nd year in a row. But, with the festival sold out we’re not stopping there. Check out the full list of events leading up to the festival here.
· Bloomington: Bloomington Craft Beer Week is also right around the corner. We plan to have events at Nick’s and Yogi’s leading up to the festival, plus lots of opportunities to order a pint of Flat 12 at local restaurants. Check out our running list here.

In The Taproom




Bars, Restaurants, Carryout, & Distributors

Shoefly Public House:
We are excited to introduce a bottle list!
BELLS Hopslam - Imperial IPA
Consecrator - Doppelbock
BOULEVARD/SMOKESTACK
Chocolate Ale
FOUNDERS Imperial Stout
GREEN’S Amber Ale (gluten free)
Dubbel (gluten free)

GREEN FLASH Le Freak - Belgian IPA
Palate Wrecker Ale
LIPS OF FAITH Yuzu Imperial Weisse w/ Yuzu Juice

NEW ALBANIAN Hoptimus Imperial IPA
NEW DAY Breakfast Magpie

NEW HOLLAND Dragons Milk Bourbon Barrel Stout
3 FLOYDS Blakkr Imperial Black IPA 22 oz, IBU 85, ABV 9.99%)

ROGUE 25th Anniversary Integrity Ale (Blonde Ale)

STONE Matt’s Burning Rosids Imperial Cherry-Wood Smoked Saison

VIRTURE The Mitten Barrel Aged Cider
And be sure to check out our ever rotating tap list. Lots of delicious local choices!



Goose The Market
New on the Goose shelves...
Don Quixote's nightmare in a bottle: dreamy Moulins d'Ascq Ambrée, a certified organic Flemish pale ale.

Underground brew: Sierra Nevada's Kellerweiss is in the Goose cellar (how appropriate)

Punny and now portable: New Day Meadery's ciders in bottles!

APRIL SHOWERS BRING SOURS
Save the date! Thursday, April 3, 5:30-7:30pm: a FREE tasting at Goose the Market featuring Goose Island's Lolita, New Holland's Blue Sunday, Boon Kriek & Gueze, plus Rodenbach Grand Cru and Vintage 2011

Thirsty before the next Random Beer Roundup? Check Goose the Market's facebook & twitter feeds for weekly #BeerHaul announcements.


Yogi's Bar & Grill in Bloomington:



Patrick's Kitchen  in Zionsville
Craft beer currently at Patrick's Kitchen:
Bloomington Brewing Co. Amarillo Pale, (tasty fresh), Also BBC's Batch 1000 a Belgian strong dark, Bier's Roggensnizzle, (rye dunkleweiss), Flat-12 Upside Down Blonde, and their Milk Stout, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel, Mojo Risin from Boulder, Sun King's outstanding Dominator Doppelbock, Taxman's Tasty Trippelle, and as usual La Trappe's Quad.


Union Jack Pub in Broad Ripple:
  • As always we have 21 ever evolving lines so check out our lineup soon!



Lino's Coffee in Speedway:
Here's an update of events at Lino's:
https://www.facebook.com/LinosSpeedwayIndiana/events
Fri., Mar. 28 - Board Game Night with Boards & Brew and Sun King
Fri., Apr. 11 - Mead Tasting with New Day Meadery
Fri., Apr. 18 - Pint Night: Cutters Brewing
Fri., Apr. 25 - Pint Night: Bloomington Brewing Co.


Beer & Fundraising Events



Brews & Boutiques
Thursday, April 24th
6 - 9 pm
The Bier Brewery


Indiana Girls Pint Out & theCityMoms have joined forces to plan a night of fashion and beer at The Bier Brewery.

We've lined up quite a list of fashion trucks and vendors to pepper you with some fun spring things, wardrobe staples and styles, including:

retro 101
ellen & elvin
Genie's Closet
Bizzy's Mobile Boutique
Boho Pretty
GrowlerGirls
TheBrickShirtHouse
GIFIHZDesigns

This list will continue to grow as the event nears. Also joining us to show off some stylish spring 'dos will be The Beauty Lounge of Carmel.

Hungry? Perfect. Our friends at Scratchtruck will have you covered.

Bring friends, your wallet {credit cards will be accepted!}, your appetite and your fun-lovin self to this unique event.

We will also have a number of giveaways throughout the evening that will require you to have a Twitter account. Follow @thecitymoms and @INgirlspintout on Twitter to get started!

This event is open to the public so grab a girlfriend {or 2 or 3…} and swing on over for an evening of brews & boutiques!


And MORE from Girls Pint Out!
Beer Education: The Making of Green Tea Kolsch
Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Co.
Tuesday, April 15th
6:30-9 pm

You may have been on a brewery tour before, but this one is different! Scotty's Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Company's special tapping for April will be their Green Tea Honey Kolsch - and head brewer Keely Thomlinson will be walking us through the process of how that particular beer is made.

The fun doesn't stop there! After the tour, we'll be sampling through some of the 3WM line-up to talk about the hops that are used in each and difficulties in finding and buying hops in an ever growing craft beer market.
But wait...there is more! We'll be making a VERY SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT at the event. Bonus: pints are only $2.50 on Tuesdays. You really don't want to miss this!

RSVP here


Bloomington Craft Beer Festival in Bloomington


April 17th, 4:00-7:00pm
An impressive array of Indiana craft beer (150+ selections) served in an awe-inspiring venue make Bloomington Craft Beer Festival the midwest’s must-attend spring festival. Live music makes it lively, and great local food (available for purchase) makes it delicious too!
General Admission 4:00 to 7:00, $35. GA tickets are available at Big Red Liquors (all Bloomington stores, but call ahead for availability) or online.

Early Bird 3:00 (one hour early!) to 7:00. EB tickets are available online only.

Designated Driver $10. DD tickets are available online or at the gate (the only tickets sold at the gate). DDs may enter with their parties, whether GA or early gate.
- See more at: http://www.brewersofindianaguild.com/events/details/bloomington-craft-beer-festival1#sthash.SNIHulmS.dpuf



Upland Brewing Company Sour + Wild + Funk Fest

Tickets for the third annual Upland Brewing Company Sour + Wild + Funk Fest are on sale now at www.uplandsourfest.eventbrite.com. This year's festival will take place Saturday, May 17th from 2pm-6pm at the historic Indianapolis City Market, preceded by a VIP Sour lecture and private tasting from 12:30-1:30pm, and with a Secret Barrel Society members-only party to follow in the building's catacombs from 7pm-9pm. For more information on our Secret Barrel Society, check out secretbarrelsociety.comVIP tickets can be purchased for $75, and will include VIP lecture, lanyard, commemorative T-shirt, swag bag and access to the VIP lounge including food and private bathrooms.

General Admission tickets are $45 and include light snacks, with the City Market's artisans open to sell heavier fare throughout the festival. General Admission attendees will also have the option to buy a T-shirt on the website during ticket purchase for an additional $15. Cutters Brewing in Bloomington



Anderson Brewfest


Hello Brewers and Craft Beer Connoisseurs!
We would like to invite you to the inaugural Anderson Brew Fest!

When: June 7th from 1pm-5pm
Where: Anderson Town Center Plaza


Tickets are available online via Eventbrite: http://www.andersonbrewfest.com/
$30 Now-June 7th, $10 Sober Driver

We still have room for some local craft brewers to showcase their best brews! We're also looking for sponsors. Please email shanna@andersonbrewfest.com for more information. And be watching the website for updates. You can also check out our Facebook page for up to date information: https://www.facebook.com/AndersonBrewFest




Sun King Brewing Fifth Anniversary party:

June 28th, Grapefruit Jungle tapping! Live music, great beer and food...get your tickets now! 






Master of Beer Appreciation classes Booking summer classes now!

Beer MBA Classes - More Than Just a Tasting
This is a unique opportunity for people at all knowledge levels to learn more about the World's Classic Beer Styles. As we sample each beer, we'll briefly discuss its origin, history and what makes it unique. This is a fun experience. Don't miss it!

  • Designed for Everyone (must be 21 years of age)
  • Flexible Schedule - Take Any Class in Any Order (after attending a Class 1)
  • Take All 3 Classes and Get Your "MBA Certificate"

Only $50 per 3-hr Class (includes free samples of all beers)
Discounts available:
Sign up for all 3 classes for $135 total
Call for group discounts
Beer Vacations Follow the link to learn more, new trips added!
Guided Beer Vacations to Belgium and Germany!


Take a Dream Trip to Belgium or Germany where nearly everything is planned and coordinated for you! Visit the Famous Breweries and the Best Beer Bars in the World, all led and guided by Ron Smith, a recognized Beer Expert that will help explain even more about the legendary beer styles, history and cultures.
Learn more now!
Belgium 2014 - Brussels, Brugge and Antwerp!
Germany 2015 - Munich, Bavaria and Bamberg!
Learn more below and be sure to sign-up for our email list so we can notify you of our upcoming trips and classes. For any additional information, don't hesitate to contact us atBeerMBA@MarketWiseSolutions.com or call 317-564-4898 and ask for Ron Smith.

21 March 2014

HBG Commentary/Conversation: What Makes a Brewery Attractive to You?

Perhaps this is a somewhat loaded question. And it's definitely an open-ended question--

In this state, we're facing a huge array of craft beer choices, and the number of choices just keeps growing. So what makes a brewery attractive to you?

I suppose the easy and standard answer for many craft beer fans is novelty: What interesting things is Brewery A doing that Brewery B isn't? If a brewery is brewing a style that other breweries aren't brewing and is doing a good job with that style, that certainly is attractive to me. I'm thinking of breweries like Chicago's Off Color and South Carolina's Westbrook, which are brewing a Gose or a Gose-like beer. An even if it's a style I don't care for (like rauchbiers), I will probably give that beer a try if I know the brewer produces good-quality beers.

Matt: For me it is about quality and value. I don't fault a place for trying to run a business, but I won't be part of or support that business if I don't feel the quality is there.

As the craft beer market continues to evolve, I find myself not seeking out new places and sticking with companies that I like that produce a product I enjoy for a price I want to pay.

I would say a big factor for new companies is getting your house beers in order. If a place can't brew their house pale ale without unmistakable flavors of diacetyl, why would I ever spend $20+ on a big beer that they brewed?

I do think there is plenty of space in the market for a brewery that is able to connect with their community, brew great beer, and charge a reasonable price for it. But I think it will be hard for many new breweries in terms of tap space, shelf space in liquor stores, and getting people to your establishment. I don't get why people want to compete in the pale ale space or IPA space. Should you brew them? Yes. Should they be your flagship? I would say no in this market.

Megan: For me it's consistency and quality. I like to know if I order X beer, it's gonna taste great on a consistent basis. I also think availability is key. If it isn't on tap or available in cans/bottles at some of the more well-known beer bars in town, I probably won't get the chance to drink it very often.

Kristin: Like Matt, I love a brewery that offers quality, consistent beer at a reasonable price. This gal is not made of money, and as the options out there become greater, the price point will always help me make my decision.

What's more, I have my basic go-to styles throughout the year. Right now it's IPAs, pales, and saisons, so if a brewery is all about porters and stouts, chances are I won't be looking their way right now. I'm also trying to cutdown on my beer consumption, not increase it. So when I'm out to dinner, and I'm having that one beer, I want to make sure it's something solid. Consistency is the key here.

Finally, how about a round of applause for diversity in brewing? I love a brewery that can offer a variety of styles that beg me to step out of my current beer comfort zone and try something different for a change. Surprise me!



Megan: I don't care about price. If it costs $100 I will buy it if I want to drink it. I think I'm in the minority here. I don't even LOOK at price (much to the dismay of my significant other). And if I'm out at a bar, I'll pick something that I don't normally get to drink from a place that consistently wows me. 3 Floyds...whatever they've got on the board, I'm drinking it. I'm a creature of habit.

Jason: When I started drinking craft beer 14 years ago, I was most interested in browns and porters. It would be years before I strayed too far from those categories, so I am imagining if I, my former beer drinking self, were transported 14 years into the future to modern Indianapolis and modern craft beer America, what would I want? Jason2000 would have cared a lot about house lineups and what is in that house lineup. He would have wanted a brewery that brewed a good brown or porter all the time because Jason2000 was not adventurous with his beers yet.

I am not that same person today. Once I have tried a brewery's house beer, I rarely return to it. I do not have a regular beer that I keep in my fridge and I do not order the same beer at every visit. I get where being consistent with a house beer and meeting a price point is important. But even if somebody made the best IPA at rock bottom prices, I would not return to that beer regularly. I think that's boring. I like variety. Rotate the beers frequently. Do seasonals, because I do like drinking by the seasons. Do special brews, because I like trying funky one offs. If your beer is a winner more often than a loser, I will probably come back. If the price point is higher than I would like, I probably won't order a second pint or tulip. But to be honest, I generally don't drink the same beer twice in one visit. I like variety so a brewery with a brew system that is slightly smaller than they need would be ideal. More frequent brew sessions means more frequent opportunities to brew something different. Keep changing, keep rotating, keep it funky, keep it fresh. That would make an attractive brewery for Modern Jason.

Megan: Modern Jason is a dick.

Jason: Jason2000 is a dick.

Jim: I think we can all agree that Jason's dickishness is timeless. Okay, back on topic--

Rodney: When I lived in Indiana, I was convinced I was at the point where I wanted to go back to "regular" beers. Unfortunately, something new and interesting will always grab my attention. I'm going to try any new brewery or any wacky one-off type beer. The only thing keeping me sane is my inability to try every single one-off beer. But over the last 10 years, I've learned that one-off beers usually aren't that good. I mean they're not bad, but they're not something you'd want to drink a lot of. Many of the barrel or sour experiments actually are bad. All that said, there are definitely beers that I come back to. A well made, quality, consistent IPA, porter, brown, pale, ESB or Pilsner will keep me coming back. My first beer at Broad Ripple Brewpub will always be an ESB.

Now that I'm down in Georgia, everything is new again. I'm trying so many breweries I haven't heard of, or hadn't had the opportunity to drink regularly in Indiana. I'm also finally putting in to practice what I originally thought - I'm drinking more regular beers. When I visit The Porter Bar in Atlanta, there's plenty of wacky stuff on tap, but I usually seek out a brewery I haven't had and a style that I know my preference on. Once a brewery has proven itself to my with basic styles, then I'll try their wacky one-off beers. But if I see a brewery I've never heard of and the only beer they have on tap is a wine barrel aged saison, I'm going to be skeptical and probably pass it over.

Jim: Yeah, I'm with you, Rod. I start off with a brewery's house beers. If the quality is there, then I'll trust the seasonal/one-off beers. But as a rule, I'm not into the whale hunting anymore. More often than not now, I find myself going for a six-pack of a well-made APA or IPA over a bomber/750ml of a mega-imperial-barrel-aged monster.

Gina: This issue intrigues me. I will still probably pick something new first, but my second may be something more familiar. I'm not price sensitive yet (on pints anyway), but I'm not seeking any whales either. There is a place and time for all kinds of beers and that determines my choice usually. Anymore, no matter what the beer is, I'm happy to be drinking with others.



Jason: You all are boring the crap out of me...

"I want a well-made ho hum beer..."

Sounds to me like I should introduce you all to a little known beer called Budweiser. They are consistent. They meet the quality standards for their beer category. And Sun King or Upland or any other brewery in Indiana can't touch their price point!

Hoosier Bud Geek, hell yeah!

Matt: I want to go to flavor country, Jason. My days of spending $13.99-$17.99 on a seasonal four pack or six pack are pretty much over. I don't buy bombers anymore. I still love beer, but I'm tired of being burned by low-quality beers at a high price point.

Rod: I'm also tired of breweries not being able to produce a basic beer before throwing their beer into barrels and making everything imperial. If I like your standard beers, I'm probably going to like your wacky beers. It seems like too many breweries are racing to the $20 bomber before they can make the $10 six-pack.

Jim: True. I mean, look at The Alchemist. I suppose you could tout them as proof that if you're really good at doing one relatively non-radical style--a double IPA--you can be successful without brewing the crazy stuff. But I think they're the exception rather than the rule there.

Jason: If bombers are your concern, Matt, the question should be about packaging then. I don't buy bombers anymore. I go to places with mix a six-packs. Or I go to the bar or restaurant. I don't drink at home much. I drink maybe once or twice a week. So when I do drink, I don't want the same-old, same-old. I want to mix it up, be adventurous, let a barrel-aged wild-fermented cucumber-infused double imperial India Pale Ale destroy my tastebuds and send me home.

You all sound like you want Paul Anka beer. Where are the people that want DESTRUCTION/MAYHEM/DIEDIEDIE beers? Just look at us. Old stand-by's are beating out new and different. HBG has become so... conservative.

Jake: I keep going back to the number 40. We have now heard of 40 different breweries that are opening in Indiana this year. My approach to deciding where I will start comes down to the founding team. Who is the brewer? What is his/her background? Do they have professional experience? Based on the answers to those questions, I have an idea of where their initial quality is going to be and can set my own expectations for when I first try their beer. I am attempting a thing where I try beer from a new, local brewery within the first three months they are open and then wait another six months to see if they have worked out the quality issues. The short answer for me is the background for a new team and quality.

I do have some beers that are consistently in my fridge: Firestone Walker Union Jack, Stiegl Grapefruit Radler, Bell's Oarsman, Schlafly TIPA, Oskar Blues Dale's Pale Ale. I have beers like these in the fridge because when I am drinking at home or having friends over, I want to know that I am grabbing something consistent that I can enjoy.

If I'm heading out to a beer bar for dinner with my significant other, I am ordering a full pour of something I know and sample pours of things I don't recognize but interest me. If I'm going with some buddies, I am getting a couple half-pours of stuff I haven't had before and then ending the night with something I know so that I am sure I go home with a good taste in my mouth.

Jason: I think in summary for myself, I drink less volume than before but spend the same amount as when I drank more. I'm willing to spend more per ounce for something different as I put a very high value on variety. I give preference to smaller pours or packaging so that I may spread my beer dollars across as many breweries and styles as possible. I never order a flagship beer because I've been there/done that.

I should note that I don't go whale hunting. If it's there when I'm looking for a beer, great. If not, oh well. I love Dark Lord Day as an experience. The purchase of beer is just the icing.

Random Beer Roundup: The 'Forget Spring...It's PEEPS Season' Edition

Hoosier Beer Calendar

Events are subject to change



The Brewers

Triton Brewing in Lawrence:

TRITON HOUSE BREWS
Fieldhouse Wheat, Sin Bin Belgian Pale Ale, Four Barrel Brown, Magnificent Amber Ale, Deadeye Stout, Railsplitter India Pale Ale, Palesplitter Pale Ale, Pink Ribbon Saison, Three Tine Triple, Bee Java Brown, Alt Lang Syne, Bourbon Barrel Alt Lang Syne (2013), Headsplitter­­ Imperial IPA, Nitro Midnight Rail Black IPA and Double Deadeye Imperial Stout, Java Double Deadeye, Barrel Aged Alt Lang Syne (2013) (Sour)

GUEST BREWS
Founders Porter, New Day Meadery South Cider, Widmer’s Omission Lager and Widmer’s Omission Pale Ale
TRITON BREWING EVENTS
Saturday, March 22, 6:30-8:30pm - Triton Beer Sampling at the Indiana Ice Game, Pan Am Plaza! Root on our Ice and enjoy a Sin Bin or other fun Triton Brewing Beer!
Wednesday, April 2, 6:30-8:30pm - College Night Beer Tasting at the Indiana Ice Game! Come taste some delicious Triton Beer and cheer for our “Hometown Team,” the Indiana Ice!

Thursday, April 3, 5pm – Hatchblower Pepper IPA Tapping! Titled after Gus Grissom’s nickname, who was inducted into the US Army Air Forces here at Ft. Ben, this IPA is flavored with green pepper, chipotles and jalapenos! Warming, fruity, peppery, fresh and delicious! (7% ABV; 70 IBU’s; Scoville Units: reasonable) With @KGSliderStation!
Saturday, April 5, 2014, 2-6pm - TAP at TAF TAP is an exclusive fund raising event for the Tippecanoe Arts Federation and provides the funds to offer arts programs and services to the 14 county region the Arts Federation serves in North Central Indiana. Join us at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation (638 North Street, Lafayette, IN, 47901)! Cost of tickets is VIP - $35.00; General Admission - $25.00; and Designated Drivers - $5.00. For more information, http://tippecanoearts.org/TAP.html.
Saturday, April 12, 12-5pm – 4th Annual Blue Chip Casino Brewfest at The Stardust Event Center at Blue Chip Casino. Join Triton and other top microbreweries from around the nation as we gather to showcase unique flavors & different brews. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com or you can visit the Blue Chip Box Office! General Admission: $40; VIP Session: $75; Brewmaster: $99; Or, Designated Driver: $15. http://www.bluechipcasino.com/whats-new/events/4th-annual-blue-chip-brewfestCutters Brewing in Avon


Special Events: 
On March 26, Cutters will be taking over the taps at The Sinking Ship in Broad Ripple. Tap list will be announced soon, so keep an eye on our Facebook page.



Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Co in Indianapolis:

We will be tapping our newest beer, Omar's Revenge Green Tea Honey Kolsch, this coming Tuesday March 25th. This beer and all of our other beers will only be $2.50 a pint.



Thr3e Wise Men Current Beers:
· Snow Bunny Blonde
· Two Lucys Blackberry Wheat
· Bulldog Brown
· Hubbard & Cravens Porter
· Rocky Ripple Pale Ale
· Golden Zoe IPA
· Centennial Martyr Double IPA
· Seasonal: Daddy's Juice Session IPA
· New: Omar's Revenge Green Tea Honey Kolsch - Tapping Tuesday March 25th

Current Hand Pull:
· Hubbard & Cravens Porter with Kenyan Coffee

Promotions:
· Are you a VIP Member? It is FREE to join! Become a member and after every 9 Growler Fills of Thr3e Wise Men Beer we will add $10 to your VIP Card.

Upcoming Beers:
· April: Hoppy Pale Wheat
· Tapping April 29th

Upcoming Events:
· Saturday April 5th: TAP at TAF in Lafayette, IN | 2:00pm - 6:00pm
· Saturday April 12th: Brewers Guild of Indiana Bloomington Beer Festival | 4:00pm - 7:00pm
· Are you planning a beer event and would like to have Thr3e Wise Men involved? Well let us know by emailing Ryan Kellerman.

Where to find our beer:
· New location: Beef 'O' Brady's in Granger, IN just tapped our Snow Bunny Blonde. Make sure to make it out and try a pint.
· We are in over 50 restaurants & bars around the state. You can check out ourwebsite for a full list of locations.
· Would you like to see Thr3e Wise Men at your favorite restaurant or bar? Well thenlet us know so we can reach out to them.


The Ram


Mug Club Monday (4/7/14)
Don't forget that the first Monday of every month is Mug Club Monday. All Mug Club Members get 50% off all food for parties of 8 or less.

NCAA Tournament:
The NCAA tournament starts tomorrow 3/18. Be sure to come see us during the Midwest Regionals, AKA the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 on 3/28 and 3/30. If you missed the Big 10 Tournament this weekend you definitely don't want to miss out on this!
Brewer's Dinner, April 17th at Downtown location: 



Daredevil Brewing Co:

If you are a fan of our winter special releases then you should enjoy them where you find them at your favorite local bar & restaurant because we have shipped the lasts kegs of Muse Belgian Golden Ale, J.W.P. American Stout and Carnival Saison.

Our limited release Rip Cord Double IPA returned this week and can now be found at the following locations (or delivered and soon to be tap'd) and more coming every day
* Bloomington: The Tap
* Fishers: Rockstone Pizza
* Indianapolis: Ambrosia, Sahm's Place, Siam Square, The Mousetrap, Tomlinson Tap Room
* Lafayette: Black Sparrow
* West Lafeyette: The Pint
* Zionsville: Patrick's Kitchen & Drinks

Upcoming events
* Shoefly Public House, Indianapolis, Friday, March 21st: Rip Cord Double IPA release party and tap takeover. Join us as we pour Lift Off IPA, Rip Cord Double IPA, Carnival Saison and J.W.P American Stout
* Bloomington Craft Beer Festival, Saturday, April 12

Looking to find our beers? We try to keep draft locations up to date on website and post frequently to our Twitter and Facebook pages on can and draft locations across the state. We have more than 30 new locations to enjoy a Lift Off IPA since our update last month. Here is a list of some of the new locations, and if you know a place we should be just let us know.

Daredevil Brewing Co. | Current beers available

Lift Off IPA: Our flagship beer available year round in cans and on draft.
A bounty of American Hops delivers the signature clean and crisp finish of a perfectly balanced West Coast style IPA.

Rip Cord Double IPA: A limited release beer available on draft.
An abundance of American hops balanced with a hint of malt to produce an exhilarating experience of intense hop flavors and aromas of citrus, floral and resin that combine to provide a satisfying crisp finish. 
J.W.P. American Stout: A winter special release and our anniversary beer available on draft. Forged from the combination of nine grains and American hops to deliver a huge bouquet of aromas and abundant flavors of rich, silky espresso in an expressive American Stout with the spirit of the Wild West. 
Carnival Saison: A winter special release Belgian Saison style available on draft. A creative and artistic balance of spicy phenols, fruity esters, noble hops and Belgian malts with a classic dry and thirst quenching finish. 
Muse Belgian Golden Ale: A winter special release Belgian style ale available on draft. A creative and artistic balance of spicy phenols, fruity esters, noble hops and Belgian malts with a classic dry and thirst quenching finish.


Tin Man Brewing Co. in Evansville:


New on Tap
Rosenweiss is a delicious wheat beer infused with rose petals that is brewed from a traditional German recipe. The slight hint of rose adds a lovely uniqueness to this refreshing beer. 6% ABV/ 15 IBU



Flat 12 Bierwerks in Indianapolis:


What would you like to drink:
Our brewers are always thinking outside of the box and some just live outside of it. I mean you can’t find a Mudbug Amber, Flan Porter or Cucumber Kölsh at every brewery. And while our brewers have an assembly line of wacky new beers they want to try, we want to know what you want. So here’s your challenge, or better yet chance, to tell us what you want to drink. Starting now and running until early June there will be a submission box in the Taproom for you to submit your own fun ideas for a beer. So everyone put their thinking caps on and get creative. Want to know what we have planned for 8-10 lucky submissions? Click here and find out.

Indy Eleven Sponsorship:
Just in case you missed the news last week and because we are still pretty excited, we wanted to let you know again about the partnership between Indy Eleven and us. That’s right, Flat 12 will be the official local craft beer of Indy Eleven in 2014. Their first match is only a few weeks away. Are you going? You can check out their complete schedulehere and check out or recap here.
(Please contact me if you would like our official press release again.)

Pint Night at Lino’s:
This Friday we will be at Lino’s Coffee Italian Café in Speedway. Been there before? Well now is a good time to visit – pretty soon it will be crawling with race fans (two races this May, yo!). Lino’s is not your average, every day cafe by the way. It happens to be connected to Dallara’s American IndyCar Production Facility. Needless to say, it feels uniquely Indianapolis. Check out what Flat 12 pints will be available here.

Keep a look out on:
· Still want to try the Crapshoot Indiana Common - Black Acre Collaboration beer? It’s on tap now at Mass Ave Pub for their Judon’t Kno Trivia. (Trivia starts at 8:30pm)
· Pub Club at Elbow Room Pub. On April 2nd Flat 12 will be the beverage of choice. For more information and how to purchase tickets click here.
· First Friday’s at Flat 12. In April we will have artist, Dustin Royal. More details coming soon.

RSSIn The Taproom




Bars, Restaurants, Carryout, & Distributors

Shoefly Public House:
  • Tapping party w/ Daredevil Brewing Friday, 3/21, 7-10pm. They'll feature Rip Cord with a few others.


Aristocrat
Bier Brewery & the Aristocrat Pub
Dinner Tap Takeover
Thursday March 27th 6:30pm
7 Beers 
5 food pairings & dessert
$30 per person
5212 N College Avenue Indianapolis IN 46220
(317) 283-7388
aristocratpub.com




Goose the Market
Save the date! Thursday, April 3, 5:30-7:30pm "April Showers Bring Sours:" a FREE tasting at Goose the Market featuring Goose Island's Lolita, New Holland's Blue Sunday, Boon Kriek & Gueze, plus Rodenbach Grand Cru and Vintage 2011.
Thirsty before the next Random Beer Roundup? Check Goose the Market's facebook & twitter feeds for weekly #BeerHaul announcements.



Yogi's Bar & Grill in Bloomington:


Zink Distributing
From Eric:

"This Saturday, March 22nd, I'll be at Big Red Liquors in Broad Ripple from 11-1 pouring a selection of tasty beers from our portfolio. The featured player will be Whitsun Wheat Ale from Arcadia Ales, our newest brewery. It's an unfiltered wheat made with Michigan honey, a hint of coriander, and a touch of orange peel Nothing says, "Bring on the sun," better than this little 12oz can of deliciousness!

The entire Arcadia lineup is currently available at the Crown Liquors downtown (corner of Ohio and Delaware), and Kahn's Fine Wine and Spirits on Keystone."



Patrick's Kitchen  in Zionsville
Craft beer currently at Patrick's Kitchen:
Bloomington Brewing Co. Amarillo Pale, (tasty fresh), Also BBC's Batch 1000 a Belgian strong dark, Bier's Roggensnizzle, (rye dunkleweiss), Flat-12 Upside Down Blonde, and their Milk Stout, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel, Mojo Risin from Boulder, Sun King's outstanding Dominator Doppelbock, Taxman's Tasty Trippelle, and as usual La Trappe's Quad.


Union Jack Pub in Broad Ripple:
  • As always we have 21 ever evolving lines so check out our lineup soon!




Lino's Coffee in Speedway:
Here's an update of events at Lino's:
https://www.facebook.com/LinosSpeedwayIndiana/events
Fri., Mar. 21 - Pint Night: Flat 12 Bierwerks
Fri., Mar. 28 - Board Game Night with Boards & Brew and Sun King
Fri., Apr. 11 - Mead Tasting with New Day Meadery
Fri., Apr. 18 - Pint Night: Cutters Brewing
Fri., Apr. 25 - Pint Night: Bloomington Brewing Co.


Beer & Fundraising Events



Social Hour with the Mentoring Women's Network at Triton Brewing




Thursday, March 27th 6-9 pm

Triton Brewery


Mentoring Women's Network is, "an organization for professional women. Our mission is a community of empowered women supporting one another personally and professionally through mentoring relationships and our vision is the largest and most effective mentoring organization for women in the nation." (mentoringwomensnetwork.com)

Join Girls Pint Out and the Mentoring Women's Network at Triton Brewing Companyon March 27th for a social/happy hour. Triton's Pink Ribbon Saison will be on tap, and we'll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewery.



Upland Brewing Company Sour + Wild + Funk Fest

Tickets for the third annual Upland Brewing Company Sour + Wild + Funk Fest will be on sale at www.uplandsourfest.eventbrite.com on March 10. This year's festival will take place Saturday, May 17th from 2pm-6pm at the historic Indianapolis City Market, preceded by a VIP Sour lecture and private tasting from 12:30-1:30pm, and with a Secret Barrel Society members-only party to follow in the building's catacombs from 7pm-9pm. For more information on our Secret Barrel Society, check out secretbarrelsociety.comVIP tickets can be purchased for $75, and will include VIP lecture, lanyard, commemorative T-shirt, swag bag and access to the VIP lounge including food and private bathrooms.

General Admission tickets are $45 and include light snacks, with the City Market's artisans open to sell heavier fare throughout the festival. General Admission attendees will also have the option to buy a T-shirt on the website during ticket purchase for an additional $15. Cutters Brewing in Bloomington


Sun King Brewing Fifth Anniversary party:

June 28th, Grapefruit Jungle tapping! Live music, great beer and food...get your tickets now! 





Master of Beer Appreciation classes Booking summer classes now!

Beer MBA Classes - More Than Just a Tasting
This is a unique opportunity for people at all knowledge levels to learn more about the World's Classic Beer Styles. As we sample each beer, we'll briefly discuss its origin, history and what makes it unique. This is a fun experience. Don't miss it!

  • Designed for Everyone (must be 21 years of age)
  • Flexible Schedule - Take Any Class in Any Order (after attending a Class 1)
  • Take All 3 Classes and Get Your "MBA Certificate"

Only $50 per 3-hr Class (includes free samples of all beers)
Discounts available:
Sign up for all 3 classes for $135 total
Call for group discounts
Beer Vacations Follow the link to learn more, new trips added!
Guided Beer Vacations to Belgium and Germany!


Take a Dream Trip to Belgium or Germany where nearly everything is planned and coordinated for you! Visit the Famous Breweries and the Best Beer Bars in the World, all led and guided by Ron Smith, a recognized Beer Expert that will help explain even more about the legendary beer styles, history and cultures.
Learn more now!
Belgium 2014 - Brussels, Brugge and Antwerp!
Germany 2015 - Munich, Bavaria and Bamberg!
Learn more below and be sure to sign-up for our email list so we can notify you of our upcoming trips and classes. For any additional information, don't hesitate to contact us atBeerMBA@MarketWiseSolutions.com or call 317-564-4898 and ask for Ron Smith.

19 March 2014

HBG's next Pint Night | Thursday, March 27, Black Acre Brewing Co., 6:30pm

We're excited about this month's HBG Pint Night because we're heading out to the east side to one of our favorite brewpubs. Yes, we're talking about Historic Irvington's Black Acre Brewing Company, which just celebrated its second anniversary in February.

So join us at Black Acre (5632 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, 317.207.6266) at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, when the Black Acre crew will be pouring drafts from a cask of Sorachi Ace Pale Ale brewed with pink peppercorns and lemon zest. All pints are $1.00 off on Thursdays, so pints of all Black Acre beers will run you $4.00 a piece.

What is the purpose of Pint Night?  To feature a flavorful beer at a reasonable price and, if you're interested in learning, to educate you about the particular beer on tap. So come on out and enjoy some great beer and conversation with us and the Black Acre crew.




18 March 2014

Josh Hambright leaves Flat12 for Starlight Distribution

While we were reading about Mark Havens and Quaff On!  yesterday, a surprise move was announced quietly on Facebook. It appears that Starlight Distribution is looking to sell more from the Shelton Brothers and 12% portfolios (plus Against the Grain and Country Boy) in Indiana this year and have hired Josh Hambright  from Flat12 to do it. Here is the text from the Starlight Facebook post:

As promised, our new sales rep will be Josh Hambright from Flat12. Josh brings with him knowledge of the beers in our portfolio and the brewing process. He has been a professional brewer with Flat 12, a growing and popular brewery here in Indiana. We are excited to have him on board and hopefully you will be as well. Josh will be based in Indy and concentrating on that area, and the rest of the state as time allows.

Josh will be starting April 1. After that date, feel free to contact him as a sales rep. We will post contact information after that date. Until then feel free to congratulate him, but be aware he still is working for Flat12. As it should be, his concentration will be there and not with Starlight. We are friends with the folks there and want a smooth transition.

To help with our expansion, we will be using our son Ryne to help in the warehouse and deliveries. Most of our retailers have met Ryne and know that he is a great fit and hard worker.

With these additions, it is our intention to increase deliveries to Indy primarily. As time and workload allows, the rest of the state will follow. Please understand that we have been a two person team; your patience and understanding has been appreciated.

Cheers!


A huge congratulations to Josh and the Starlight team from us at HBG. For fun, here is the feature that we did on Josh and the Flat12 barrel program last year.