I made a last minute decision to stop out to Willoughby Brewing Company for their Christmas in July kickoff event. They were tapping Wenceslas Christmas Ale, which I have never had, so I thought it would be a good time. Friend and contributor, Brad Lantz, was able to join me in the tasting.
Hop Jam, a Black Rye IPA, was in the fermenter. This is the first beer that the new management brewed in January, and now it is coming back on the menu. Brewer, Rick Seibt, took us back to the fermenter to get a taste. Wow. I do love a Rye IPA. This is part of the lineup heading to GABF in a couple months. They are going to be sending Moonshadow IPA, Peanut Butter Coffee Porter, Hopnotic Imperial IPA, Hop Jam Black Rye IPA and a couple other beers.
Brewer Thomas Gaboury also spoke about a recent acquisition of six barrels from Brown-Forman, producers of Kentucky Bourbon. In the next few weeks they will be preparing a brew, hopefully a nice big stout, to be aged in these bourbon barrels. This beer won’t be ready for a while.
Before leaving, I made sure to get a growler of Wenceslas. It was only $10 for a fill and $13 with a growler included. We have some more Christmas in July fun later this week so I am sure this will be a welcome addition. If you have not been to Willoughby Brewing Company lately, you should really make it a priority. They should have Wenceslas on tap for a week or so. Happy Christmas in July.
