I hadn’t been to The Herkimer for a while, so I decided to stop in for a few brews this afternoon. I figured it’d be good to update the tap list (their website is a little behind right now) and, uh, get my drink on. I’m not the hugest lager fan in the world, but I tasted (and enjoyed) their Marzen, Vienna lager, Maibock & Kolsch. And though I don’t drink a lot of Kolsch, this particular beer was a favorite. The food was good, too.

Anyway, take a look at the tap list at right for a few updates from The Herkimer.

In late September of 1986, we sold our first keg to Johnny’s Bar in Saint Paul, directly across the street from our first location on University Avenue. We all find it remarkable that twenty years have past since that first exciting day so we are planning a party to celebrate. On September 30th, 2006 , the brewery will move its headquarters to Harriet Island to celebrate our 20th with a day of music and Summit Beer. We call it…

Summit’s Big Brew
We are busy making plans for the day and finding home-grown talent to accompany our home-grown beer. We expect a lot of surprises over the next several weeks as we get commitments from the bands we have contacted. Stay tuned as we will first announce the bands on our web site.

Other things that are happening during 2006 to celebrate our anniversary include the introduction of Summit Extra Special Bitter. Available July 1, Summit ESB will be brewed in the UK style with plenty of interesting hops and a beautiful malt finish. Look for this beer in a special 20th Anniversary twelve pack.

Finally, look for special neck straps on Summit beer bottles commemorating our 20th year.

The new brew at Minneapolis Town Hall is available today and seasonally titled “Slamma Jamma Juice,” a “Classic Dortmunder style ‘Export’ Lager. Light in color, clean crisp German malt profile. Brewed with ‘March Madness’ in mind.” I didn’t receive an e-mail about this one, but I wouldn’t doubt that they’ll be serving pints for a buck from 5-6pm tonight. If not, suck it up and pay full price. 🙂

On April 20th, Summit will be releasing a new limited release, Summit Scandia Ale. From their website:

Summit Scandia Ale is a Scandinavian interpretation of a famous Belgian ale with spice notes of cardamom, coriander and orange. Scandia Ale pours cloudy with a white head and has a refreshing and pleasing flavor profile.

Hrrm. 5.0% ABV, 20 IBUs, Pale, Wheat, European Malt (?), Flaked Oats, Vanguard hops. Sounds like a wit perhaps?

Oh, and…

Keep an eye out for your chance to win a trip for two to the unveiling of Summit Scandia Ale, the newest in the brewery’s Limited Release portfolio. Summit plans to host a release party in honor of their latest brew on April 20th. SKÅL!

Yessir, MNBeer.com was chosen as the Minnesota Blog of the Day over at City Page’sBlotter on Monday. Thanks!