Tag: autumn brew review

ABR Returns to Boom Island Park

The Autumn Brew Review is back and it returns to a familiar spot along the Mississippi River in Northeast Minneapolis. Proof of vaccination will be required to attend the event which will almost certainly leave some upset, but the health of the attendees and vendors is being put first during this uncertain time.

“The health and wellness of craft beer employees and customers is extremely important to the Guild, and so is continuing to host the festivals that energize and connect the craft beer community. As COVID continues to be a concern throughout the state, we felt it was our responsibility to do what we could to support community and industry safety at ABR,” says Bennett McGinty. “We know not everyone will be happy with the vaccine requirement, but our goal is to limit the potential negative impact our festival could have on community health, and allow people to be more confident in working, attending, and volunteering at ABR.”

This event will once again showcase Minnesota breweries and some of their finest creations on Saturday, October 16th beginning at 1:30 pm and going until 5 pm. These Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild events are often the best way to sample beers from breweries all across Minnesota without the long drive. “We hear from attendees all the time that they love how they actually get to talk with the head brewers and owners of Minnesota’s breweries at our festivals. Our fests are a great way for craft beer fans to connect in a new way with some of their favorite local businesses, and discover new places they haven’t been able to try yet,” said Lauren Bennett McGinty, Executive Director of the MNCBG.

One of those breweries is Hoops Brewing in Duluth. Dave Hoops who founded the brewery is known for his fruit concoctions as well as his ability to utilize hot peppers in a subtle way. Some of the beers he plans to bring include a Raspberry Wheat Ale, Bamberg Lager, Wood Smoked Hefeweizen, and a Pepper Ale.

Many of the local breweries will bring a special beer or two to spice things up and show attendees what they are capable of. One such beer that will be worth seeking out is the 2021 version of Lost Moon from Pryes Brewing in Minneapolis. This Russian Imperial Stout won Silver at the U.S. Open Beer Championship. Expect rich, roasted malts with Belgian candy sugar and notes of chocolate and caramel. Perfect for a fall day in the Twin Cities. They will also bring Cartographer, Star Seer, and a triple hopped honey DIPA featuring locally sourced honey.

The folks at Steel Toe haven’t solidified their choices yet, but expect to see Size 4, Provider, and Rainmaker on their menu. Rainmaker is one of the most underrated beers made in town. Classified as a Double Red Ale—this beer brings piney hops to the table with toasty caramel malts—and sports a lovely red hue when poured into your favorite glass. Be sure to seek this one out.

Tickets will cost $60 to attend, and $15 for sober drivers. ABR will happen rain or shine so be sure to keep an eye on the forecast. You can purchase tickets here.

Cheers!

Noteworthy Beers from Autumn Brew Review 2016

With so many fantastic beers on display at the 16th annual Autumn Brew Review, it’s hard to choose favorites. Instead I’ve highlighted some that stood out. Here they are:

Whiskey Queen from Indeed Brewing – A smooth Russian Imperial Stout that delivers flavors of bittersweet chocolate, vanilla, stone fruits and oak to the palate.

Twisted Zweig from Forager Brewing – This was probably my favorite beer at the festival. An Imperial Berliner Weisse aged on black currants. Sour, juicy, and extremely drinkable. You’d never know this was an 8% (ABV) beer, which is almost dangerous. This brewery has really impressed me this summer and it would be worth your while to visit them down in Rochester. I was honestly shocked that there wasn’t a line at this booth.

Imperial Chocolate Milk Stout from Dangerous Man – Smooth and creamy milk chocolate with a little bit of heat (alcohol) on the end. It’ll be fun to explore some these barrel-aged beers coming out of Dangerous Man in the coming months.

IWL from Town Hall Brewery – This wheat based lager was very heavy on my two favorite hops—Mosaic and Citra. Another fine creation by Mike Hoops and his team of brewers over at the Seven Corners brewery. There’s a reason it’s the first place I take anyone new to the Twin Cities.

Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout from NorthGate – Dark stone fruits, chocolate, and bourbon dominated the flavor profile of this one. Nice example of the style for a brewery that focuses on British ales. This one stood out among the many other Imperial Stouts available at ABR.

Cheers!

ABR Teaser: Fitger’s Brewhouse Special Beers

Here are some special beers you’ll find at Autumn Brew Review from Fitger’s Brewhouse in Duluth. Thanks to Dave for the heads up! Enjoy!

Woodford Reserve Bourbon Barrel Aged Beers
Barrel-aged Witchtree ESB
Barrel-aged Edmund Imperial Stout
Barrel-aged 1100 Wheatwine
Fruited Beers 
Cherry Batch (17th Anniversay beer)
Breakwater Blue (wit beer w/ blueberries )
Spanish Fly (cherries, hatch chilis, IPA)
Brewhouse Oktoberfest Wiesn
Blue Label Grande Reserve ( Belgian style double abby)