HIKEs & BREws pages 7, 15, 22
the search for delicious
Maine Brew Guide
Inside the hop pilot programs Page 39 of Maine breweries
Regional TASTING ROOM
plus The Business of Brewing Page 32
GUIDE HOURS &
LOCATIONS
Summer Session-able Brew Reviews Page 37 Kennebec Valley Brings the New Beer Vibe Page 27 Definitive Brewing Co. Opening in Portland Page 10
Spring/Summer 2018
MaineBrewGuide.com
#633
TOOLS
OF THE
TRADE
3 3
35 INDUSTRIAL WAY
PORTLAND
35 R INDUSTRIAL WAYN D PORTLAND, MAINE O 35 INDUSTRIAL T LWAY A , M PORTLAND, A I NMAINE E @definitivebrewing @definitivebrewing @definitivebrewing
WWW. .COM DEFINITIVEBREWING WWW. . C OM .COM NG DEFINITIVEBREWING WWW. .COM DEFINITIVEBREWING
contents SPRING 2018
4 Brew Events Calendar 10
Definitive Brewing Set to Open mid-May in Portland
16 The Search for
See page 39
Delicious
BY Dave
HIKE & BREW See pages 7, 15, and 22
Patterson
18
Runaways Run Club BY John
20 A Lust for Life, Norway Brewing Company
BY John
Breerwood
27
Road Trippin' Kennebec Valley region is your next craft beer destination
RUNAWAYS RUN CLUB
See page 18
A LUST FOR LIFE See page 20
Breerwood
30 Home Brew Corner
hikes & brews Pairing regional hikes with nearby breweries, see pages 7, 15, and 22
tasting room directories
See page 32
BY Kay
8 Greater Portland
47 Downeast
32 Business of Brewing
21 Western Maine
48 The County
35 Beer Necessities
26 Central Maine
Stephens
43 Brew News 46 North Haven Brewing Co.
BY Courtney
Naliboff
BREW REVIEWS
Benjamin
See page 37
Trails Expands
BY Kim
spring 2018
brewing
36 Greater Bangor
40 Maine Brew
2
of
5 Southern Maine
37
See page 21
business
Where are all the Home Brewers??
Summer Sessionable Brew Reviews
DEFINITIVE BREWING
All New
Maine BrewGuide
3
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9 Susan’s Way, Windham, ME 04062 www.activitymaine.com stan@activitymaine.com (207) 671-7230
PUBLISHER
Stanley J. Rintz III
ART DIRECTOR Larissa Davis
The MAINE BREW GUIDE is serving you the freshest information on local Craft Beer anyway you like it! Subscribe to get (or give) this incredible publication at home or online.
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4
spring 2018
9
$ 95 INCLUDES SHIPPING
The 55-mile stretch from Kittery to Portland is home to nearly a dozen Maine breweries, brewing everything from traditional English-style ales to funky barrel-aged sours. The only thing nicer than relaxing on one of Maine’s beaches is doing so with a Tributary Gose or a Hidden Cove Patroon in hand. Text Josh Christie
southern maine
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours.
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
Banded Horn Brewing Company
S
M
T
W
TH
F
S
Biddeford
12 - 8
4-9
4-9
4-9
4-9
12 - 10
12 - 10
/BandedHornBrewing
Barreled Souls Brewing Company
Saco
12 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 12
12 - 12
/barreledsouls
Blue Current Brewery (Sake)
Kittery
1-5
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-6
Gary's Olde Towne Tavern (formerly Bray's Brew Pub and Eatery)
Naples
11:30 - 10
11:30 - 12
11:30 - 12
11:30 - 12
2-8
2-8
2 - 10
2 - 10
Dirigo Brewing Company
11:30 - 10 11:30 - 12 11:30 - 10
/BlueCurrentBrewery /braysbrew
/dirigobeer
Biddeford
12 - 8
Funky Bow Brewery & Beer Company
Lyman
1-5
1-9
1-9
/FunkyBowBreweryAndBeerCompany
Gneiss Brewing Company
Limerick
12 - 4
2-7
12 - 6
/GneissBeer
Wells
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
Kennebunk
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11:30 - 1
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
Eliot
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 10
11:30 - 10
SoMe Brewing Company
York
12 - 7
12 - 8
12 - 8
12 - 9
12 - 8
12 - 9
12 - 7
/SomeBrewingCo
Tributary Brewing Company
Kittery
12 - 5
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/tributarybrewingcompany
Woodland Farms Brewery
Kittery
12 - 6
12 - 8
12 - 8
12 - 9
12 - 9
/woodlandfarmsbrewery
Hidden Cove Brewing Company Kennebunkport Brewing / Federal Jack's Restaurant Run of the Mill Public House & Brewery
Saco
Sebago Brewing Co.
Kennebunk
Shipyard Brew Pub
OPENING SOON
CITY
12 - 8
ADDRESS
/HiddenCoveBrewing /federaljacks /The-Run-of-The-MillPublic-House-and-Brewery-52414106886 /sebagobrewing /ShipyardEliot
Nuts & Bolts Brewing Co
Biddeford
Pepperrell Mill
/nutsnboltsbrewing
Theory Brewing Company
Wells
16 Dorfield Lane
/TheoryBrewingCompany
Corner Point Brewing Company
Berwick
1 Sullivan Street
/cornerpointbrewing
Maine BrewGuide
5
Southern Maine
Ready for the ride of a lifetime?
Great Maine Getaway Ride
August 11–12
Start/Finish at University of New England
www.bikemsmaine.org
Don’t just ride, Bike MS
READY FOR THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME? BikeMS takes place in Biddeford, one of Maine’s finest coastal destinations. During this two-day ride, cyclists will experience the beauty of Maine’s southern coastline, including an up close look at “Walkers Point”, the summer home of President George H.W. Bush. Your participation will drive MS research forward faster, and deliver services to those who face the challenges of MS every day so they can live their best lives. With several distance options, you’ll be treated to priceless views of the Atlantic Ocean as you begin and end your ride Saturday and Sunday. Upon your return, enjoy the festivities with food, music and a massage. The fun continues Saturday evening with an awards ceremony and dinner. On Sunday, enjoy a full breakfast and then head out for another beautiful ride. When you return, top off a great weekend with a Maine lobster at our traditional Lobster Bake. Whether you are an individual rider, part of a team, or a family looking for a destination weekend supporting an important cause, the Great Maine Getaway is the perfect event for you! *Early and on-going treatment with FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contracting the National MS Society at MSNEWENGLAND.ORG or 1.800.344.4867.
45 Wells Plaza • Wells, ME (207) 641-8622 • TEXT (207) 251-6788
TullysBeerAndWine.com
TULLY’S BEER AND WINE in Wells, opened in May 1997 with a mission to expose the world of specialty beer and great wine to the residents and visitors of Southern Maine and beyond. With the enormous selection of craft beer, Tully's prides itself on service, selection, and product knowledge. They also sport a mighty fine wine selection, 6 humidors of premium cigars and a huge selection of home brew supplies.
The RUN OF THE MILL and THE LIBERAL CUP bring the comfortable, inviting atmosphere of English style pubs to Maine. Housed by a sprawling mill building in Saco, ‘The Mill’ offers ample indoor and (seasonal) outdoor seating with views overlooking the Saco River and the up-and-coming mill district. Smaller and more intimate than its southern counterpart, ‘The Cup’ is located in the heart of Hallowell- a vibrant, historic town. Both feature hand crafted beer and home-style food surrounded by distinctive architecture and old world charm in rustic brick & mortar structures. Our pub style menus feature an array of lighter fare, hearty entrees and creative specials made from fresh, local ingredients. To wash it all down, we use the finest malts and hops to create 25 varieties of craft beer which flow directly from our in-house breweries.
6
spring 2018
Southern Maine
hikes &
brews By Carey Kish
mt. agamenticus & S O M E BREWING COMPANY
The monadnock of Mt. Agamenticus rises to 691 feet amid one the largest remaining expanses of unbroken coastal forest in New England, some 10,000 acres in all. From the Mountain Road trailhead, hike Ring Trail clockwise to the upper slopes of the mountain, then take any of six short trails to the top. Big A Trail circles the huge grassy meadow on the summit, which offers panoramic views from the Atlantic Ocean to the White Mountains. Explore around the old lodge (now an environmental education center, open weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Memorial Day through Columbus Day) and the rusting lift towers of the long defunct Big A Ski Area. This easy hike is about three miles round-trip, depending on your route. SoMe Brewing Company on U.S. Route 1 in York was founded in late 2013 by the father-and-son duo of Dave and David Rowland, both admitted beer geeks whose vacations over the years revolved around visiting breweries. “SoMe” is short for Southern Maine, but the Rowlands simply call the brewery “Some.” Some kind of good are the beers these guys produce, a pleasing lineup with a pint to suit every palate for sure. The warm and friendly tasting room features 10 beers on tap, one of which is Apostrophe IPA, the flagship brew. You’ve also got to try the Whoopie Pie Stout, which is destined to become a Maine classic, just like the chocolatey sweet treat. There’s popcorn for bar munchies, and a local butcher stops by to cook burgers on Friday nights, when there’s also live music.
Carey Kish of Mt. Desert Island is an avid beer drinker, editor of the AMC Maine Mountain Guide, and author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast.
resources HIKE
BREW
Mt. Agamenticus
SoMe Brewing Company
Conservation Region agamenticus.org
207-361-1162
somebrewingco.com
207-351-8162
events calendar april 21 TASTE THE NORTH BREWFEST, Presque Isle
may 19 BLACK FLY BREWFEST, Houlton
june 9 OWLS HEAD TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM HOPS IN THE HANGER, Owls Head 23 THE 5TH ANNUAL GREAT FALLS BREWFEST, Lewiston 30 KENNEBEC RIVER BREWFEST, Kennebec Valley
july 21 RAILS, TAILS & ALES, Boothbay 28 MAINE BREWERS’ GUILD SUMMER SESSION BEER FESTIVAL, Portland
august 2 MAINE LOBSTER FESTIVAL’S STEINS & VINES TASTING EVENT, Rockland 18 CRAFT BREW RACES, Portland
september 29 MAINE LAKES BREWFEST, Casco
october 6 SWINE AND STEIN, Gardiner
Maine BrewGuide
7
PHOTO: MIKE LEONARD
SEBAGO TASTING ROOM
Sebago Partners Kai Adams, Brad Monarch, and Tim Haines welcome you to their newly opened 30,000 square foot destination brewery in Gorham.
greater portland
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours.
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
S
M
T
W
11 - 6
11 - 6
Allagash Brewing Company
Portland
11 - 5
11 - 6
Austin Street Brewery
Portland
12 - 5
12 - 7
Battery Steele Brewing
Portland
12 - 5
Bissell Brothers
Portland
12 - 5
Bunker Brewing Co
Portland
12 - 6
2-8
D.L. Geary Brewing
Portland
2-5
2-6
Fore River Brewing Company
South Portland
12 - 6
Foulmouthed Brewing
South Portland
12 - 10
3 - 10
Foundation Brewing
Portland
12 - 5
12 - 7
Goodfire Brewing Company
Portland
12 - 7
Gritty McDuff's
Freeport
11 - 1
11 - 1
Gritty McDuff's
Portland
11 - 1
11 - 1
Island Dog Brewing
South Portland
12 - 6
Liquid Riot Bottling Company
Portland
12 - 11
12 - 11
Lone Pine Brewing Company
Portland
12 - 7
2-7
Maine Beer Company
Freeport
11 - 5
11 - 8
Maine Mead Works
Portland
11 - 8
11 - 8
Marsh Island Brewing
Orono
12 - 8
4 - 10
Mast Landing Brewing Company
Westbrook
12 - 5
Nonesuch River Brewing Company
Scarborough
11 - 8
Oxbow Blending and Bottling
Portland
12 - 9
8
spring 2018
2-8
TH
F
S
11 - 6
11 - 7
11 - 7
/AllagashBrewingCompany
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/AustinStreetBrewery
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/batterysteelebrewing
12 - 8
12 - 8
12 - 8
12 - 8
/BissellBrothers
2-8
2-8
12 - 9
12 - 9
/bunkerbrewingco
2-6
12 - 7
12 - 7
/gearybrewingco
2-7
2-7
2-9
12 - 9
/frbco
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 10
12 - 10
/FoulmouthedBrewing
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/foundationbrew
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/GoodFireBrewing
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/grittymcduffs
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/grittymcduffs
4-8
4-8
2-8
12 - 8
/islanddogbrewing
12 - 11
12 - 11
12 - 1
12 - 1
/liquidriot
2-8
2-8
12 - 8
/LonePineBrewing
11 - 8
11 - 8
11 - 8
11 - 8
/mainebeerco
11 - 8
11 - 8
11 - 8
11 - 8
11 - 8
/HoneyMakerMead
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 11
3 - 11
12 - 11
/MarshIslandBrewing
4-8
4-8
4-8
12 - 8
12 - 8
/mastlandingbrewing
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 11
11 - 11
/Nonesuch-River-Brewing-CompanyLLC-715365338561799
12 - 9
12 - 9
12 - 11
12 - 11
12 - 11
12 - 11
/Oxbow-Blending-Bottling-372533856238705
3 - 10
12 - 11 11 - 8
PHOTO: MIKE LEONARD
Greater Portland Portersfield Cider (seasonal)
Pownal
Rising Tide Brewing Company
Portland
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
South Portland
Sebago Brewing Co.
Gorham
Sebago Brewing Co. Sebago Brewing Co.
/PortersfieldCider 12 - 5
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/risingtidebeer /seadogsouthportland
9-1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
9-1
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
/sebagobrewing
Scarborough
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/sebagobrewing
Portland
11 - 12
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/sebagobrewing
Sebago Brewing Co. (Brewery)
Gorham
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
/sebagobrewing
Shipyard Brewing Company
Portland
11 - 4
11 - 5
11 - 5
11 - 5
11 - 6
11 - 6
11 - 6
/ShipyardBrewing
Shipyard Inn on Peaks Island
Peaks Island
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 10
11 - 10
/InnOnPeaks
Urban Farm Fermentory + Gruit (Kombucha, Cider + Beer)
Portland
12 - 5
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/urbanfarmfermentory
Yes Brewing
Westbrook
3-8
2-8
2-8
/yesbrewing
OPENING SOON
CITY
ADDRESS
Definitive Brewing Company
Portland
35 Industrial Way
/definitivebrewing/
Stars and Stripes Brewing Company
Freeport
8 Varney Rd
/Stars-Stripes-Brewing-Company-465981440453981/
Brickyard Hollow
Yarmouth
236 Main Street
/brickyardhollow/
NO TASTING ROOM, RETAIL ONLY
CITY
ADDRESS
Freeport Brewing Company
South Portland
130 Breakwater Drive
Peak Organic Brewing Company
Portland
110 Marginal Way #802
/peakbrewing
One Eye Open Brewing Company
Portland
41 Fox Street
/OEOBrewing/
GEARY BREWING CO. is the pioneer of the Maine craft beer industry and fundamental to the U.S. craft beer movement. The historical brewery holds craft brewing license #13 in the nation and is the first brewery established east of the Rockies, post-prohibition. Started by David and Karen Geary the brewery is known for traditional true-to-style English ales, brewed in the Peter Austin System using open fermentation. To compliment this style, Geary’s now brews several contemporary craft beers in closed fermentation. Hef’Ah Bier, an authentic German Hefewisen, is the newest release! Since the transition to the new ownership of Alan and Robin Lapoint in March of 2017, Geary’s has invested in state of the art brewing equipment and processes to deliver the beer customers prefer, in the packages they desire. Fear not, loyal Geary’s fans! The preservation of flagship ales and brew style is of the utmost importance to the new owners. Additions to the brewery include two 60 barrel closed fermenters, a centrifuge, canning and bottling lines, and a micro-bottler. Today, Geary’s tasting room has 8 rotating taps featuring stouts, lagers, barrel-aged ales, pilot brews, and IPAs. Tours take place ThursdayMonday at 3pm. If you haven’t visited New England’s First Craft Brewery, stop in! Maine BrewGuide
9
de•fin•i•tive (adj): (a conclusion or agreement) done or reached decisively and with authority.
Set to open mid-May in Portland 10 spring 2018
PHOTO: MICHAEL LEONARD
definitive brewing
Following the formula of so many successful businesses who synchronize with the right people at the right time, Definitive Brewing Co. came together when accounting firm co-workers Michael Rankin and Josh Roberts formed an alliance with Dylan Webber, a well-respected Portland-area brewer and the former head brewer at Mast Landing. “Josh and I often discussed that if
(Citra, Amarillo & Topaz), this ale sports
someday the opportunity presented
mango, peach, apricot and citrus flavors
itself, we’d love to open a brewery,” said
with a soft medium body and a well
Rankin. “Then, Josh, who was friends
rounded bitterness.
with Dylan, found out that Dylan was
Another one Webber is excited about
interested in starting his own thing. With
is the Contee, a 4.6% Kölsch-style beer
friends and family as all of the investors,
brewed with malt and hop varieties from
we were able to form the company.”
Germany.
Whether it was the right timing;
Two things about the Contee. One:
and Company and Noble BBQ to offer our customers delicious food options
the right talent, or the tried-and-true
All of the brewery’s investors have
that will pair perfectly with our beers,”
foundation of hard work, ambition
some connection to Cobbosseecontee
said Rankin. The industrial theme of
and ability, the trio reached a decision
Lake in Manchester, Maine, hence the
the tasting room is complimented by
decisively and with authority: Definitive
name of the Kölsch. Two: Webber went
a custom built concrete bar made by
Brewing Co. was set to launch this
to the source for this crisp, clean and
local craftsman, Dan St. Peter, which can
spring.
refreshing ale.
seat 10-12 people. A four-foot demi wall
Renovations were in the works all
“Dylan has been to Cologne, Germany,
will delineate the production area and
winter long to transform the space at
where the Kölsch originated,” said
tasting room, serving as a standing area,
35 Industrial Way in Portland, which
Rankin. “It’s like Champagne, France;
which will allow customers to view the
is adjacent to number of established
it’s the only place in the world where
production process while enjoying one
breweries including Battery Steele,
you can call a beer a true Kölsch. Dylan
of Definitive’s hand-crafted ales. “We will
Austin Street and Foundation with
toured the breweries in each of the cities
have two corn hole courts and various
Allagash right across the street.
and was passionate about coming back
board and card games available,” added
to make a true Kölsch-style brew for
Rankin. “We are also fortunate to offer
Definitive.”
our guests more than 40 parking spaces.”
“It’s definitely beneficial to be down here with these other breweries,” said
Rankin said two other brews are in
Webber is also stoked to work with a
to our being there. And that’s not just the
the works, including a pale ale and a
half-barrel pilot system that will allow
collaborative style of Portland but, also
session ale. “Our plan is to get people
him to experiment with small batch
Maine in general. The Maine Brewer’s
ready for summer and create a beer for
beers, which will only be sold in the
Guild has done a phenomenal job getting
everyone and then as the summer rolls
tasting room, so people who come to the
ahead of a lot of the different issues
on, we’ll introduce a double IPA, as well
brewery will have access to tastes and
that have come up in different states, so
as various other offerings,” he said. “And
flavors only the locals are privy to. “We
the breweries tend to feel like we’re all
as we getting into the fall, we’ll start to
will be serving on-premise pours in five
working together for the industry.”
introduce stouts and darker beers.”
and 12 ounce glasses, and we will also
Rankin. “They’ve all been very receptive
Definitive Brewing plans to introduce
They plan to open a 15-barrel
have our beers available to go in cans and growlers,” said Rankin.
three or four “summertime” brews when
brewhouse with a tasting room and beer
they open mid-May, including Definitive
gardens both in the front of the building
Ale, their flagship IPA (6.7%). Made with
and in the back. “We’ll be able to seat
Definitive Brewing Company and get the
American and Australian hop varieties
120 people and will partner with Fire
true Maine experience.
This summer, make it a point to visit
Maine BrewGuide
11
Greater Portland
When you shop for beer at RSVP DISCOUNT BEVERAGE, on Forest Avenue in Portland, you’re immediately struck by two things: RSVP’s overall beer selection and their CHILLED beer selection. RSVP has filled the entire side wall with beers and added 19 beer coolers to the back wall of the retail store. Stocking the latest beers from local Maine and New England breweries, all the way to Belgian ales made by Trappist monks, (as well as hard cider, wine and spirits), RSVP always has the adult beverage you want. www.rsvpdiscountbeverage.com
LIQUID RIOT’S roots date back to 2001 when Eric Michaud’s homebrewing filled his parents' basement in Yarmouth, Maine, with batches of newly created beers. Today his and his team's passion for brewing exceptional beers and distilling outstanding spirits pairs perfectly with the great food served at this Portland Brewery/Distillery/Resto-Bar, which opened in 2013. Liquid Riot maintains 16 house beers on tap and a full lineup house spirits, as well as Liquid Riot beers and spirits in every dish. Liquid Riot's "Blushing Star" earned a gold medal for Brett Beer at the 2016 World Beer Cup. Also Liquid Riot has won the Great Lost Bear “Brewpub Cup" and Portland Phoenix Best Brewpub awards and Ratebeer. com named Liquid Riot the Best Brewpub in Maine the past two years. Liquid Riot's award winning beers, spirits and food are available at 250 Commercial St., Portland, Maine 04101. www.liquidriot.com
12 spring 2018
Sebago Brewing Celebrates Milestone with New Destination Brewery Better, not just bigger. That’s the mantra of Sebago Brewing Co-founder Kai Adams. Less than a year after breaking ground, the company opened its new destination brewery in late February. Located on Lower Main Street in Gorham, the 30,965-square-foot building is now home to SBC’s brewery, tasting room, and headquarters. According to Adams, with their four vessel and 40 BBL brewhouse, Sebago can brew 5,000 gallons of beer in four batches per day (four times the capacity of their former facility). But they’re also excited to play with their new pilot brewhouse with its 7-barrel mash tun, 5-barrel kettle. “The pilot system will give us the flexibility to do small batches for both R&D and for fun,” said Tom Abercrombie, Brewmaster at SBC. “It will also allow us to make small batches for barrel aging, and ultimately blending, for unique beers we’ve never made before— and to collaborate with friends in the industry.” Adams and his fellow co-founders Brad Monarch and Tim Haines think the destination brewery is the perfect way to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary. They’re most excited about bringing the brewers and the public back together through the tasting room and brewery tours. “Years ago as pub brewers, our customers were closer to the origin of production,” said Adams. “Once again, the public can see the brewers, meet the people making it, drink it, and buy it fresh to go – all at the same location.” [ SEE “SEBAGO,” PAGE 14 ]
Maine BrewGuide
13
In 2018, the Maine Brewers’ Guild will be heading overseas and you're invited! For a second year, they'll ship the Maine Beer Box - a custom-built, 40' shipping container outfitted with 78 beer taps - filled with beer from nearly every brewery in Maine to Leeds, England where Maine beer will be featured at the Leeds International Beer Festival from September 6-9th. To complete their unique global brewers trade program - after Leeds, breweries across the United Kingdom will then fill the Maine Beer Box with UK beer and ship it back to Maine in time for the Guild's Beer Festival on November 10th at Thompson's Pt in Portland, capping off Portland Beer Week. More info can be found at bit.ly/beerbox18
[“SEBAGO” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 ]
The Maine Beer Box at the International Marine Terminal in Portland, Maine – onto an Eimskip ship before sailing to Reykjavik in June 2017
Thompsons point July 28
The destination brewery is open Sunday-Wednesday from 11:00am9:00pm, and Thursday-Saturday from 11:00am-10:00pm. Scheduled tours of the new brewery will begin and end in the tasting room, which will eventually feature 16 taps of Sebago’s standard, seasonal, and specialty brews. Along with beer samplers and flights, guests can enjoy wood-fired pizza, sandwiches, and entrees, all focused on locally sourced ingredients. Visit www.sebagobrewing.com to find out more about Sebago Brewing Company’s events and beers.
THE GREAT LOST BEAR has become a Portland institution since opening in 1979. The Bear is located about two miles from Portland’s touristy Old Port but well worth the journey across town to the Mysterious Woodford’s Area. The Great Lost Bear features an enormous, eclectic menu with something for everyone, all served in an entertaining atmosphere. They have added more taps as new breweries open throughout the Northeast. Now, with the Craft Beer Revolution in full throttle, GLB offers 80 beers on tap with more than 50 of them brewed from Maine. Come taste some of the freshest local beer around at the GLB!
beer Craft Beers
Fresh, Local Pub Fare Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pubs PORTLAND I FREEPORT I AUBURN I www.grittys.com 14 spring 2018
1988
food
Since 1988, GRITTY’S has been creating fine, handcrafted ales and traditional pub fare. From humble beginnings as a small brew pub in Portland’s Old Port, they have grown to become a brew pub of choice for many Mainers and folks “from away”. From the start, Gritty’s was at the forefront of the brewing renaissance in the Maine. Founders Ed Stebbins and Richard Pfeffer had two simple goals in mind: to create a true, English-style pub serving fresh ales and great food, and to have fun doing it. With three brew pubs now: the original location in the old port section of Portland, another pub in Freeport and the “new one” on the banks of the Androscoggin River in Auburn, Maine. Their fine ales are sold in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont. www.grittys.com www.facebook.com/grittymcduffs or www.twitter.com/grittys
Greater Portland
Western Maine & Kennebec Valley
By Carey Kish
hikes &
brews
spring point shoreway & FOULMOUTHED BREWING
The historic Spring Point Shoreway takes you on a scenic stroll along South Portland’s waterfront. From the Willow Street trailhead, head north along Willard Beach, taking in views of Casco Bay islands Cushing, House, Little Diamond, Great Diamond and Peaks. Meander through the Southern Maine Community College campus and the school’s Shoreway Arboretum. Beyond that, scamper along the top of the old battlements of Fort Preble, then hike the long jetty of giant granite blocks to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. Pass by several marinas to get to Bug Light Park and the Liberty Ship Memorial. Ahead is elegant Bug Light, modeled on an ancient Greek monument. Return to the start by ambling through the neighborhood streets. This roughly four-mile loop is easy. On Ocean St. in South Portland, not far from the Fore River, is where you’ll find Foulmouthed Brewing, housed in an old auto garage that’s been beautifully renovated. The interesting name is a play on words dating to the 17th century, when this region of Casco Bay was named Falmouth; it also alludes to the salty language used by dock and shipyard workers of the day. With big bay windows and lots of light, this neighborhood brewpub is surprisingly cozy and comfortable. Owners Craig and Julia Dilger are brewing up a wide variety of experimental beers, and with six to nine drafts, there’s always something for everyone, but not always quite the same (although popular brews are repeated). Try a flight, then order up a full pour of
resources HIKE South Portland Land Trust southportlandlandtrust.org
BREW Foulmouthed Brewing foulmouthedbrewing.com
207-618-6977
THE
GREAT LOST BEAR 80 BEERS ON TAP INCLUDING 50 LOCAL FRESH MAINE BEERS
your favorite. The menu is upscale pub food (oh, the corn dog!) and there are also twists on classic cocktails.
Carey Kish of Mt. Desert Island is an avid beer drinker, editor of the AMC Maine Mountain Guide, and author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast.
540 FOREST AVENUE PORTLAND, ME 207-772-0300 www.greatlostbear.com
Maine BrewGuide
15
the search for delicious
By Dave Patterson
Inside the Hop Pilot Programs of Maine Breweries These days, the nuclear rate of innovation among Maine brewers is part of what makes our craft beer industry so explosive. Brewers work tirelessly to craft the next lineinducing, palate-slaking beers for ravenous fans. Whether it’s experimenting with wild yeast, unique barrel-aging techniques, or specialty ingredients, Maine brewers are continually pushing at the boundaries of craft beer. No sector of innovation receives more
number of benefits in addition to
attention, or has a bigger payoff for
research and development.
that matter, than brewing the next
“It allows us to consistently offer new
chic IPA. Like it or not, hoppy beers are
and exciting beers to our customers
the behemoths driving the craft beer
with the ultimate hope of collecting
industry to such stratospheric heights,
feedback to help steer our future
and brewers are on an arms race to
production schedule,” Dorsey stated.
forge cutting-edge IPAs.
When customers offer a resounding “Yes!” about a beer in the Green-to-
exercise their creative muscles and
level, a number of Maine breweries
Green series, Dorsey and his brewing
keep them pushing the boundaries of
feature a hop pilot program to
team at the Westbrook brewery take
the discipline.”
experiment with hop varieties and
note.
To take their hop-game to the next
combinations of hops. Essentially, these
“Batches that perform exceptionally
If you know anything about brewing beer, then you understand it’s akin
hop pilot programs are R & D that you
well end up being pulled out of the
to baking bread—these hop pilot
and I get to drink.
program as their own stand-alone
programs keep brewers from having
One local hop pilot
brands. This is where Saccarappa IPA and
to bake the same loaf everyday. And
program that has been
Dash IPA originally started,” he explained.
inspired brewers equal blissful beer
satisfying my lupulin
drinkers. It’s simple math.
sample forward-looking IPAs in each
Another popular hop pilot program
LANDING BREWING CO.’s
new batch, they can also help create
is Soundings from Portland’s RISING TIDE
Green-to-Green small
new beers on the market when giving
batch series.
feedback.
BREWING COMPANY. The EAST BAYSIDE BREWERY has long
Mast Landing
16 spring 2018
Not only do beer drinkers get to
cravings is MAST
One of the most important purposes
been dedicated to precise science
President Ian Dorsey
of the Green-to-Green series that
and quality control techniques to
explained that the
Dorsey noted was its benefit to his
produce their palatable line-up of
Green-to-Green
brewing team. He explained that the
beers. So, it was no surprise that when
program offers a
hop pilot program “allows brewers to
I reached out to Rising Tide co-owner
and brewmaster, Nathan Sanborn, his
approach to constructing each new
series of single-hop IPAs
answers reflected this science-minded
recipe of Soundings.
focusing on the unique
ethos.
Sanborn explained, “We also use the
characteristics of one
Soundings series to try out different
hop per batch. The hop
play in our sensory program, so that
base and specialty malt combinations,
wizards at BATTERY STEELE
we can collect as much sensory data
as well as other raw, pre-gelatinized, or
BREWING have dubbed
on each beer as possible, including
malted grains.”
their hop pilot program
“The Soundings beers get a ton of
Through the monthly release of
Onsight—a series turning
that data against the technical brewing
Soundings, Rising Tide gets surgical
out some beautiful IPAs.
data and recipe information, and use
with its use of ingredients in every step
And, in one of Maine’s
that information to apply to future
of building an IPA. Most importantly,
first hop pilot programs,
or existing recipes in our portfolio,”
each batch has a unique flavor profile
and one of the best,
Sanborn stated. “We are always trying
and pushes the conversation on IPAs
SEBAGO BREWING annually
to push our craft forward and make
forward for brewers and drinkers.
releases Hop Swap.
its performance over time. We collate
better beer each week so this data is invaluable.”
There are simply too many other hop pilot programs to list here,
If you have yet to delve into Maine’s diverse hop pilot programs, the time is
which just shows the
now. Who knows? Your feedback might
why Rising Tide’s hop pilot program
tireless innovation and
just help create the next big IPA.
has produced so many exquisite
embarrassment of riches
iterations. There’s a deserved buzz
in Maine’s brewing
around each small batch release.
community.
Technical answers like this illustrate
Unlike many hop pilot programs
Here are a few more,
where the grain bill and yeast strain
however, that are always
of the beer remain the same, while
on my radar. LONE PINE
only the hops change, Sanborn and the
BREWING features a
Rising Tide team take a more holistic
program called Onesie: a
Dave Patterson is a freelance beer writer, novelist, and lover of all things Maine beer.
PHOTO BY KIM BENJAMIN
T IGPRO INC. is a team of highly skilled professionals of all disciplines who specialize in the design, fabrication and installation of high quality, custom built brewing systems, tanks, process piping and supporting equipment to the brewing industry. Some of Tigpro’s recent accounts include Bissell Brothers, who are continuing to expand at their new location in Milo, which will feature barrel aging and sour beer production. Also, Tigpro recently completed a new 15 barrel brewing system for Goodfire Brewing who just opened last Fall in Portland. Gordon Jones Goodfire's head brewer says: “Tigpro was very attentive to our needs during the build out process as well after, if we need some something done or tweaked, they take care of us right away. Our system is super consistent and works well for us.” They also outfitted Bunker Brewing's expansion to 17 Westfield Street in Portland by adding a new 15 BBL Brewhouse, 30 BBL fermenters and Brite tanks as well as new 40 BBL HLT & CLT Tanks. In the Bangor region, Geaghan Brothers Brewing Company is using Tigpro’s brewing equipment to put out their quality brews. Tigpro's portfolio also crosses over into the Distillery industry as well. Most recently they outfitted Maine Craft Distilling with some their equipment needs at their new location in Portland. Tigpro works closely with customers to design brewing systems that are affordable, have shorter lead times and fit the needs of the individual breweries. Their focus is on the small brewer. Brewhouse System sizes start at 5 BBL and go in increments of 7, 10, 15, 20 and 30 BBL's while HLT, CLT, Unitank Fermenters, Brite Tanks, Lagering Tanks and conditioning/serving tanks as large as 80 BBL are available. Tigpro also manufactures a manual 4 head keg washer/filler so basically, when it comes to brewing equipment and components, if you need it, they can build it.
Maine BrewGuide
17
runaways run club By John Breerwood
18 spring 2018
When my wife and I moved up to her native Maine from my native Louisiana in January 2017, we had some adjustments to make. The crawfish were ten times bigger, and you had to worry about ice dams instead of levees. We loved drinking good beer, being active, and surrounding ourselves with great people. So that March, she found a free run club on Facebook that met Wednesdays at local breweries in Portland, and we did not run away from the opportunity. It was not only what we wanted, but it was what we needed.
PHOTO: COURTNEY ELIZABETH
trails to taps
PHOTO: COURTNEY ELIZABETH
Ken Krogsrud, the club’s founder, said, “I thought there would be five people, but we now have 50 people on a Wednesday night.” Originally from California, Ken moved to Portland and was immediately hooked by its connectivity. “I started seeing people on the street I knew, and it PHOTO: COURTNEY ELIZABETH
felt more connected than separate,” he said. Raised in a very run-centric community, he’s been running ultras (50 or 100 mile races) for nine years, and is now the Race Director for GiddyUp Productions, which coordinates running events. The brewery connection was forged when Ken befriended Craig Dilger,
We also did a brunch run at Becky’s
owner of Foulmouthed Brewing in
Diner on New Year’s Eve morning,
South Portland. “Our brewery network
where customers waited outside in
grew from there,” said Ken. Calling
heavy winter coats, while we ran up in
their club “Runaways Run Club,” they
thermal tights. That perseverance has
have since been all over the Portland
been good for thickening my Southern
area ending up at Foulmouthed,
blood and crushing my fear that the
Bunker, the Great Lost Bear, Urban
bitter cold would kill me on contact.
Farm Fermentory, Shipyard Brewing,
No matter if you’re quick as Hermes
and Bissell Brothers. Runners have
or slow as Hades, there’s a spot for
even made it over to Maine Beer
you at Runaways Run Club. Even if you
Company (Freeport) and Dirigo
don’t like beer (chances are that you
(Biddeford).
do because why else would you read
“Brewers here really want that culture
a beer magazine?) they have several
and the business,” said Ken. “And, Craig
weekly non-beer related trail runs.
actually brewed a Runaways beer at
They also have a strong presence at
Foulmouthed, which was a red beer
local races, so look for them at the Old
with peaches. I love both red beers and
Port Marathon and the L.L. Bean Trail
peaches, so it was a refreshing, after-
Running Festival at Pineland Farms.
run beer.” Additionally, the Runaways
“It’s completely free,” Ken said. “Just
are active in the community as well.
show up. Reach out on Facebook and
For example, they held a fundraiser
Instagram. We all have a great time,
at Urban Farm Fermentory for Sarah
and that’s how we’ve grown. It’s not the
Emerson, a local runner, who was
beer or the running. It’s the people.
Your Maine Beer Adventure Begins @ The Hub!!
THE PORTLAND BEER HUB is the first Beer Bar and Retail shop combo in the Old Port. They celebrate Maine beer's past, present, and future through our curated draft list, retail shop, and staff of Beer Geeks! It's your start and end stop on your beer vacation.
fighting breast cancer. If you’re an avid runner, don’t let the beer emphasis fool you into thinking these athletes aren’t serious about running. Members will run in artic temperatures or snowstorms. This past
John Breerwood is a cellarman at Shipyard Brewing Company and is currently trying to get his first novel published. He and his wife Madelyn had their first child last February.
winter, we ran in Freeport in singledigit temperatures in the darkness with headlamps; it just made the Mean Old Tom go down even nicer.
320 Fore St. Portland, Maine (207) 956-7322 Maine BrewGuide
19
a lust for life
Norway Brewing Company By John Breerwood
PHOTOS BY JOHN BREERWOOD
People venture to Maine’s small towns to bask in the warm sun and soak in the cool waters, but it’s easy to overlook the fact that not all local businesses experience the warm months as a leisurely holiday. Nestled in downtown Norway, Maine, Norway Brewing Company gears up for the summer by opening its seasonal beer garden, so more people can enjoy the excellent beer and food it offers year-round. Charlie Melhus, owner and head brewer, said, “People love sitting on the wooden benches and picnic tables, so we’ll have 100 more seats outside in addition to our restaurant seating.” Originally from Norway (the country),
to offer a more holistic food and beer
Fermentory set to be released in June.
Melhus later laid down his roots in
experience. “Our brunch menu is often
Their farmhouse ales and saisons have
Norway (Maine) at a young age. After
paired with a new beer, so you have
rustic and fruity esters.“By bottle-
being an inspired homebrewer, he
that immersion of flavors, which gives
conditioning beers that have volatile
vowed to start a brewing company. He
people a more defined experience than
aromatics, they continue to get better,
met Ken Collings of Freeport Brewing
waiting in line for a taster.”
not deteriorate,” said Melhus.
Company while working in the kitchen
From Our Tank to Your Table is
If you want to escape this summer,
at the Broad Arrow Tavern in Freeport.
imprinted on 32-ounce growlers sold
drive to Norway for the Foothills Food
“Ken taught me how to all-grain brew,
on site because they are committed to
Festival, the Norway Arts Festival, or for
and I helped him with a few of his own
local businesses. “We keep that focus
fresh beers in the sun. As for Charlie
brews,” he said. “I remember telling
on Maine agriculture,” said Melhus.
Melhus, he’ll keep working tirelessly
him that I would start Norway Brewing
“Our goal one day is to make beer with
to move his brewpub forward. His job
Company.”
100% Maine ingredients.” Norway can
may not always be a vacation, but it’s
fulfill anyone’s palette with a variety
certainly a dream come true.
Melhus then moved to the country of Norway in 2008 and landed a job
of bold dark beers, IPAs, and bottle-
at the Lervig Brewery. “Working there
conditioned farmhouse ales. The Lust
influenced my brewing style,” he said.
4 Lyfe IPA has a nice balance of citrus
Returning to Norway, Maine, in 2014,
and dry, piney notes. Some upcoming
he and his wife Erika labored to start
summer beers include a dandelion
their brewery. Each having a culinary
saison, a barrel-aged peach, and a rye
background, they opened a brewpub
gruit collaboration with Urban Farm
20 spring 2018
John Breerwood is a cellarman at Shipyard Brewing Company and is currently trying to get his first novel published. He and his wife Madelyn had their first child last February.
western maine Maine's western lakes and mountains are home to four seasons of recreation — skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, boating and fishing in the summer, and hiking, biking, and hunting in the shoulder seasons. It's little surprise that breweries have sprung up among the lakes and mountains, catering to thirsty locals and visitors alike. In fact, it's hard to think of a sporting destination in the area that doesn't have an accompanying craft brewery to visit at the end of the day. Visiting this vast area, it is comforting to know that great Maine beer is never far away.
By Josh Christie
tasting room directory
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours.
CITY
S
M
T
W
TH
F
S
Bag & Kettle Brewpub (seasonal, Nov - Apr)
Carrabasset Valley
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
11 - 8:30
/The-Bag-and-Kettle-226206227458472/
Bear Bones Beer
Bridgton
12 - 6
2-8
2-8
12 - 8
/bearbonesbarrels
Kennebec River Pub & Brewery
The Forks
7-9
7-9
7-9
7-9
7-9
7-9
7-9
/KennebecRiverBrewery
Norway Brewing Company
Norway
11 - 9
4-9
4-9
4-9
4-9
11 - 9
/norwaybrewingco
Saco River Brewing
Fryeburg
12 - 5
3-7
12 - 7
/sacoriverbrewing
Sunday River Brewing Company
Bethel
6 - 11
Tumbledown Brewing
Farmington
1-7
NAME
OPENING SOON Steam Mill Brewing
CITY Bethel
NO TASTING ROOM, RETAIL ONLY
6 - 11
6 - 11
6 - 11
6-1
6-1
/Sunday-River-BrewPub-w-The-Savages-315654268558376/
1-7
1-7
1-7
11 - 7
/TumbledownBrewing
ADDRESS 7 Mechanic Street
CITY
6 - 11
FACEBOOK /Steam-Mill-Brewing-172917753477290/
ADDRESS
Bray's Brewing Company
Naples
678 Roosevelt Trl
/BraysBrewingCo
Drumming Grouse
South Bridgton
319 Fosterville Road
/Drumming-Grouse-BreweryLLC-1171174089595443/
Tom Gobbler Brewing
Fryeburg
394 West Fryeburg Rd
/Tomgobblerbrewing
Maine BrewGuide
21
Western Maine
hikes &
brews Text & Photo: Josh Christie
Jockey Cap
& SACO RIVER BREWING resources HIKE Jockey Cap, Glacial Erratic Fryeburg, Maine
BREW Saco River Brewing sacoriverbrewing.com
207-256-3028
A short hike off Route 302 in Fryeburg, Jockey Cap looks down on the Saco River valley and the Fryeburg area. In the 1930s, the hill was briefly a ski area — and home to Maine’s first rope tow — but has since found a second life as a family hiking destination. From a trailhead behind Quinn’s Jockey Cap Motel and Country Store, the trail quickly climbs 200 feet over rocks and roots to the summit. The quarter-mile climb from the parking lot to the peak is steep, but not terribly taxing — most hikers can probably make a round trip in less than a half hour, without breaking a sweat. The reward at the summit (beyond the panoramic view from nearby Sebago Lake to farther Grafton Notch and Mount Washington) is the spectacular Peary monument. With a large metal compass dedicated to Arctic explorer Robert E. Peary, the monument details all the surrounding landmarks in striking profile. It’s easy to find your way to Saco River Brewing from Jockey Cap, as the brewery is literally across the street from the trailhead. Tucked behind the Two Black Dogs Country Pub and steps from the namesake Saco River, the brewery opened in 2016. The small tasting room and brewery, built out from an old metal fabrication shop, maintains the industrial feel, with concrete floors and a poured concrete bar painted with an approximation of the Saco River. A red Old Town canoe hangs over the bar and a glass wall holds the ever-changing tap list (offering a window into the brewery). Visible just beyond the wall is a barrel — filled with beer, natch — and the production
10 Jockey Cap Lane, Fryeburg, ME • (207) 256-3028
Summer Hours: Sun 12pm–5pm • Mon 1pm–7pm• Thu 1pm–7pm • Fri & Sat 12pm–7pm
SacoRiverBrewing.com
22 spring 2018
portion of the brewery. Still in operation in the foreground is a small, one-barrel pilot system, where owner Mason Irish can brew small batches of beer to serve at the brewery.
Include a Stop at the U.F.O. in Naples! The Umbrella Factory Outlet (U.F.O.) is located in the Shop n Save shopping center on the corner of Routes 302 and 35 in Naples, Maine. The U.F.O. offers over 2500 square feet of liquor, wine and craft beer choices. It is an agency liquor store, offering over 1700 liquor, 1800 wine, 700 craft beer, 180 nips/pints and 100 cider selections! From hard apple cider to seasonal brews, you’ll find them here! From fruity reislings to rich merlots, this store provides them! From a smooth vodka to a warm whiskey, browse them at the U.F.O.! This remarkable store not only offers discount beverages but also great prices on cigarettes, cigars and tobacco products. Labeled the ““Wine Capital of Maine,” the store expanded in 2015 to add the Craft Beer Runway, which leads to the Lost Moose Campground tasting center where wine and beer tastings are held. The U.F.O. also supplies a selection of cold wine and beer for the customer’s convenience. Visit us daily Sunday-Thursday 9am-8pm and Friday-Saturday 9am-9pm in Naples, Route 302, 639 Roosevelt Trail. Check out our website at www.umbrellafactoryofmaine.com and like us on Facebook!
— Our Store is Very Unique —
Maine BrewGuide 23
Western Maine
norway brewing company summer bottle release early june I Heart Mom - Farmhouse porter with lactose aged in
white wine barrels- Barreled Souls Collaboration - 500 ml bottles
NORWAY
mid june Inglorious Bastard - Farmhouse pale ale
BREWIN G
late june Sourdough Rye Ale - Gruit Collaboration
C O M PA N Y
early july Ghost in the Stairs - Saison
Brewery
late july Berliner Weisse
Taproom
early august Life’s A Peach - Grisette w/ Maine peaches aged in
Beer Garden Full Kitchen
white wine barrels
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
late august Barrel Weisse - Berliner Weisse with spruce tips &
Monday - Friday 2 - 9 Dinner Saturday - Sunday 11 - 3 Brunch 4 - 9 Dinner
honey
www. n o r wa ybr ew in g.com ( 2 07 ) 7 3 9 - 212 6 • be e r @n or wa ybr ew in g.c o m 237 Main Street in historic downtown Norway, Maine
NORTHERN OUTDOORS MAINE’S PREMIER ADVENTURE RESORT
Serving You Maine’s Best Active Vacations! • Classic Open Timbered Log Lodge: Fieldstone fireplace, gameroom, free wifi, outdoor swimming pool and giant outdoor hot tub.
Kennebec River Brewery
Our full service restaurant & awesome handcrafted beer make your stay even better!
•
Adventure Resort in The Forks and Adventure Basecamp at the Penobscot River and Baxter State Park.
•
New England’s Best Whitewater Rafting: Kennebec, Penobscot, and Dead Rivers.
•
ATV Trails, Guided Fishing Trips & Hiking Trails: Explore more adventures during your resort stay.
Centrally located in Western Maine’s renowned outdoor recreation playground.
Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway 1771 US Route 201, The Forks, ME 04985
207-663-4466
www.NorthernOutdoors.com 24 spring 2018
Established in 1976, NORTHERN OUTDOORS offers year-round, affordable Maine adventure vacations and is the first and most experienced rafting adventure company in the state. In the summertime, we offer whitewater rafting, river floats, hiking, ATV rentals and trail access and fishing. When the temperatures drop in late fall and winter, ride some of Maine’s best snowmobiling trails or make one of our cabins your hunting headquarters. Lodging options include rustic to luxury cabins and riverside camping. Our very own KENNEBEC RIVER BREWERY is featured on the Maine Beer Trail! Northern Outdoors is located 4 hours from Boston, MA and 2½ hours from Portland, ME on Route 201, the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway in The Forks, Maine.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, when historic downtown Skowhegan will close to vehicular traffic to host its third annual SKOWHEGAN CRAFT BREW FESTIVAL—one of the only festivals in the state to feature all Maine beer, wine, cider, spirits, and food. With 30 brewers anticipated, the event will kick off with a VIP hour featuring specialty brews not available during the general session. The general session will include an array of Maine-crafted libations and free local food samples, while merchants will offer farm-to-table fare such as organic tacos, chicken wings, and wood-fired pizza. A backdrop of live music—plus downtown shops offering raffles—will enhance the festival atmosphere. Guided tours of Maine Grains and an exploration of Skowhegan’s beautiful riverfront and the Langlais Art Trail will round out this Labor Day weekend event, making for an unforgettable close to summer.
Saturday, September 1, 2018 Maine-crafted libations, farm-to-table fare, and live music in the streets of Skowhegan
SkowheganCraftBrewFest.com
Maine BrewGuide
25
PHOTO: THOMAS-JOHN VILLEUX, MAINE UAV
central maine
The mighty Kennebec River connects 23 communities here in Maine. This region is seeing a resurgence in development and revitalization including many new breweries that are making their homes in these festive little towns. Spend some time enjoying the riverfront communities, outlying lakes regions and central shopping district. There are a lot of new and old discoveries to be found!
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
Baxter Brewing Co.
Lewiston
Bear Bones Beer
Lewiston
Bigelow Brewing Company
Skowhegan
Cushnoc Brewing Co
Augusta
Grateful Grain Brewery
Monmouth
Gritty McDuff's
Auburn
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
Liberal Cup Public House and Brewery
Hallowell
11 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
Lost Valley Brewing Company
Auburn
9-4
Oak Pond Brewery
Skowhegan
Ricker's Hard Cider
Turner
11 - 6
Two Gramps Brewing
Gardiner
12 - 6
Waterville Brewing Company OPENING SOON Outland Farm Brewery
26 spring 2018
S
M
T
12 - 6 11 - 10
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours.
W
TH
F
S
3-9
3-9
3-9
/baxterbrewing
4 - 10
4 - 10
12 - 10
/bearbonesbeer
3–8
12 – 8
/bigelowbrewingco
11 - 10
11 - 10
/Cushnoc
4-8
12 - 8
/gratefulgrainbrewing
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/grittymcduffs
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 10
11:30 - 10
/TheLiberalCup
3-8
3-8
12 - 9
12 - 9
4 - 10 11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
Pittsfield
/Lost-Valley-Brewing-Company-160619647757013
3 - 5:30
3 - 5:30
3 - 5:30
3 - 5:30
3 - 5:30
11 - 6
11 - 6
11 - 6
11 - 6
11 - 6
11 - 6
4-8
4-8
4-9
11 - 10
11 - 10
/TwoGrampsBrewing
12 - 8
/therealwatervillebrewingcompany
Waterville CITY
3-8 ADDRESS 404 Phillips Corner Road
12:30 - 5:30 /OakPondBrewery
FACEBOOK /OutlandFarmBrewery/
/Rickerhilltastingroom
roadtrip
The
Kennebec Valley region
PHOTO: MELONIE COUTTS
PHOTO: THOMAS-JOHN VILLEUX, MAINE UAV
your next
By Kate Cone
Visit & see why this Central Maine nook is the next hot bed for craft beer and tourism
The cities of Augusta, Hallowell and Gardiner lie along the shore of the mighty Kennebec River, just shy of an hour, by car, north of Portland. Though the three cities have been through some hard times in the past decades, their economies were once thriving. Industries like quarrying, ice harvesting and shipbuilding, among many others, allowed the people who lived there to prosper. Like many Maine towns and cities that set up mills and factories on the state’s rivers, competition and advanced technologies eventually brought the closing of those businesses. And those communities languished. But things are turning around. And among the most exciting categories of rejuvenation is the new growth of brewpubs and other businesses associated with the food and beverage industry. Yes,
ice harvesting is gone, but beer, wine and spirits are flowing through this trinity of Maine towns as strongly as the Kennebec current.
26 Route 126 Monmouth, ME
Open Fri 4PM–8PM • Sat 12PM–8PM • Sun 12PM–4PM
fb.com/gratefulgrainbrewing
Maine BrewGuide
27
Depending on which direction you’re starting from if you’re taking a day trip to this region, begin at one end and work your way up or down the two-lane state road that connects the three cities. In fact, if you want some exercise and a dose of nature, park your car and walk the length of the Kennebec Rail Trail, a paved walking and biking path that runs from Gardiner all the way up to Augusta, along the river. Watch water birds duck and wing their way along the Kennebec and the occasional kayakers glide over the water while you work your way to 10,000 steps. Dip into the businesses that are now keeping the visitors and residents filled with great food and drink, get back on the trail and keep walking. Two friends decided to start brewing beer seriously and that is how Two Gramps Brewing got its start. Garnering rave reviews from its happy customers, this brewpub brings to Gardiner its first brewery, possibly in history, but at least since Prohibition ended. With eight taps of regulars and some rotation, Two
By Kate Cone
Gramps hits all of the
Largest Selection of Craft Beer and Ciders in the Area 3 Free Tastings per Month Exceptional Service & Knowledgeable Staff 339 Water St. • Gardiner, ME (207) 582-8811 gardiner.craftbeercellar.com
notes. For IPA lovers there’s Jax Buck Double IPA, crafted with quality grain grown at Bucks Farm in Mapleton, Maine (IBU 66 ABV 7.7%). If you’re new at trying craft beer, a “gateway” brew could be Sun Up Ale, an American Pale Ale, (IBU 34 ABV 4.8%) which they tout as their “lightest, refreshing lager with a crisp taste.” What are you going to have with those beers? Burgers are their specialty, but you can graze their appetizer menu with a few different renditions of Tater Tots. Salads, a signature seafood “burger” and other umami-loves-beer items are also there for the choosing. Further down Water Street sits the Craft Beer Cellar’s Gardiner location. Here you can stock up on craft beers from close by or far afield. More than a dozen countries are represented, including Sri Lanka. Beers from 16 states, including most of New England, are represented here.
Good Neighbors. Great Beer. 266 Water Street Gardiner, Maine (207) 592-0776 twogrampsbrewing.com
There’s wine, sake, cider from Scotland, and many tasting events. Get on their Facebook page and watch for these events, such as visiting brewers who provides talks on their craft brews while you sip them. Two doors down is Mainiac Brewing Supply. If you’re not yet a home brewer, owner Rick McCormick will tell you: “If you can make a box of macaroni and cheese, you can brew a batch of beer.” His store contains every ingredient for a delicious, crisp golden pale ale or a hoppy, hazy New England IPA. And with summer advancing, those luscious styles are a must for the buttery lobster rolls, piping hot steamers and other fish plucked from the Atlantic. Okay,
28 spring 2018
let’s not forget beer styles that go with blue-cheese
tasting rooms is very inviting. The owners encourage people
burgers and even mustard-covered Fenway Franks.
to bring food in. With the way things go, though, some type
Back on the road, head a bit north to Farmingdale, which sits snug between Gardiner and Hallowell. There, you’ll
of food will surely be on offer in the future. The demise of mills and Prohibition dampened the
find the Cobbossee Beverage Shop with its many offerings in
industry in this region, but with the current and continuing
wine, beer, local coffee and local meats/eggs. The shop
popularity of craft beer and great food, the Kennebec Valley
boasts the biggest selection of beers and wines in the
is booming once more.
area with special attention to the various Maine craft breweries. Organized by beer types and by the various brewers, you can easily find your new favorite. Step into their walk-in, chilled “beer cave,” and take your pick of six-packs, four-packs, or whatever your heart desires. Owners Ed and Deb will be happy to guide you to your By Carey Kish
new favorite wine or beer and their customer service will have you back on a regular basis (or maybe it is their new beagle pup, Bates that keeps you coming back). Soldier on to Hallowell, where you can do some antiquing and book browsing, eat some ice cream by the river, or dip into The Liberal Cup for house-made brews and pub food. Celebrating its 18th year, owner Geoff Houghton opened this brewpub because he’d fallen in love with the country pubs he had visited as a teen in
Kate Cone is the author of What's Brewing in New England: A Guide to Brewpubs and Craft Breweries. She cooks with beer frequently at her home in Waterville, Maine.
Cobbossee Beverage Shop
Come See our Huge Homemade Beer Cave Stocked with Maine Brews and More! — We Feature Maine Brews Throughout the Store and Have a Large Variety of Popula Popular Micro Beers from Away Too!
Come In and See Us – Deb & Ed Bowie & Stew 581 Maine Avenue, Farmingdale, ME • (207) 557-0048
www.cobbosseebeverageshop.com
England. All the food is house-made and their up-todate website posts the menu each day. Try the beercheddar soup, then move on to entrées such as Drunken Pot Roast or Not Your Momma’s Meatloaf. Eight taps feature “approachable session ales,” with a few stronger exceptions. And 20 ounce “pints” let you know why the name is the “Liberal” Cup. Liberal with the beer; ample portions of food. If you’re doing the Rail Trail, keep walking northward to Maine’s capital, Augusta. Weekdays, the city is packed with traffic. But on weekends, Augusta is relatively quiet, allowing more elbow room at the bar at the Black and Tan pub. Dying for Irish beer and filling food? Quench
— Providing Quality Home Brew Supplies & Service —
“What's on tap at your house?”
325 Water Street • Gardiner, ME • (207) 588-BEER (2337)
mainiacbrewing.com
both appetite and thirst with a cold Guinness and some shepherd’s pie, a Scottish egg, Irish nachos (okay, you
IRISH &AMERICAN PUB FARE
know you love those potato skins filled with cheese and toppings). They even have a kids’ menu here, and welcome families and groups. There are some local
from Burgers to Pizza to Traditional Irish Meals
beers on tap, but the focus here is the Irish ambiance.
— Serving Until 9PM —
Order from a menu of beers from Ireland, England and Scotland and tipple some of the 11 Irish whiskeys.
HAPPY HOUR 3PM–6PM
A short drive from Augusta is Monmouth, Maine and
“Talls for Smalls” Beer Specials $5 Well Drinks
it’s worth the drive to welcome the relatively new Grateful
Live Entertainment on the Weekends
Grain brewpub. People are raving about The Experience, their New England IPA, “ a well-rounded, double dry-hopped New England Style IPA packed with five pounds of hops per barrel.” Open only on weekends (for now), the beers on tap in April were Camp Road, The Experience, Dragin Magick and Jacob’s Ladder. Check their Facebook page for updates of the beer menu. When they opened in December, 2017, they sold out of their beer in nine hours. With a rustic
Flat Screen TVs
(207) 213-6218 18 Bridge St. • Augusta, ME Open Tuesday–Saturday 11AM–10PM
Seasonal Outside Seating Biker Owned & Operated
wood interior and live music on many weekends, the
Maine BrewGuide 29
homebrew
corner
Where a r e al l t homebre he wers?
helllooo?
By Kay Stephens
Say you’re new to homebrewing, or new to Maine and you want to connect with other beer and brewing enthusiasts, but don’t know where to start. If your first inclination is to Google where groups are gathering in the state, you’ll get lost down the rabbit hole, for there is not one statewide Maine Homebrew Club.
We turned CENTRAL STREET
FARMHOUSE in Bangor,
ER. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE ROCK
hanging around in someone’s garage shooting the shizzle and sampling new beers. Or some choose to communicate through closed Facebook groups and email lists while others operate as formal organizations with officers, bylaws and minutes. To date, there are three major homebrewing
annual Maine Homebrewers
organizations spread out
Competition in the state, to
around the state: Home
find out “Where The Beers
Brewers of Greater Bangor,
Are.”
Maine Ale & Libation Tasters (MALT) in central Maine
employee turned new owner
(Augusta/Waterville area)
said, “There are a number of
and Portland Maine Mashing
ways people who are new to
Maineiacs.
brewing find each other. Or,
A smattering of smaller
maybe they’ve been brewing
groups and clubs exist in
a long time, but want to hang
various areas around the
out with other brewers. Often,
state, which can most likely
they’ll come into a store like
be found by searching
ours and just ask us who to
Facebook. The big three also
reach out to. A few of the
host, (along with Central
larger groups have websites
Street Farmhouse) an annual
and Facebook pages and
homebrewing competition,
regular meet ups.”
which is another excellent
Homebrewing clubs in Maine are popping up as fast as the breweries themselves.
30 spring 2018
a bunch of guys and gals
which organizes the largest
Josh Parda, a long-term
Homebrewers Competition), (L to R ) Dave Rocker (winner of Maine Beer C.o), and Josh Parda, Jared Lambert (Head brewer at Bangor owner of Central Street Farmhouse.
They can be as simple as
way to connect with other beer enthusiasts.
Central Maine
Sam Canders, president of
The PORTLAND MASHING MAINEIACS, have been in
HOME BREWERS OF GREATER BANGOR, reiterated what Parda
existence for 11 years, have
suggested—that the best
around 25-35 active members
way to find out where the
and come to monthly
nearby clubs and gatherings
meetings with more than 100
are is to buy locally from
informal members who are
homebrewing supply stores.
networked by an email list.
“Especially for people not on
“We’re fairly informal,” said
social media or Facebook, go
co-founder Chuck Warner.
talk to the staff behind the
“It’s more of a social club and
counter, because they are
we have people come as far
likely to know what’s going on
north as Brunswick and as
and who is getting together,”
far south as the Sanford area.
he said.
People can always sign up on
Canders said that his
our email distribution list on
organization is very keen
our website to find out about
on creating a Maine
the meeting dates and other
Homebrewers Guild,
activities. We also host Brew
essentially a network
Days, usually at someone’s
amongst all of the various
house, where people can
brew clubs and organizations
bring their equipment and we
with the collaborative
brew together.
goal of creating a cohesive
To find out more about
movement. “Our club is
the major clubs around the
working on legislation
state and to get a better
to create a homebrewing
idea of their “club vibe” visit
exemption in the state
homebrewersassociation.org
of Maine, among other
and type “Maine” in the
initiatives, such as a Maine
search bar.
Homebrew Festival,” he said. “Our intent is not only to make our own club stronger, but also to make other clubs in the state better as well. After all, a lot of the commercial brewers opening today started out as
Kay Stephens loves beer and hiking and often combines the two. She is an author and an arts and entertainment freelance writer whose work has appeared in a number of Maine newspapers and magazines.
homebrewers.”
Maine BrewGuide
31
brewing business of
Left to right: Sebago Brewing Company’s Brad Monarch, Tim Haines and Kai Adams stand behind the the new destination brewery system in which they partnered with Zajac Liquid Processing Systems to help construct. PHOTO: MICHAEL LEONARD
FEATURED BUSINESS ZAJAC LIQUID PROCESSING SYSTEMS
The Maine Brew Guide is working to connect brewery owners and investors with specialized businesses who have adapted their services to help breweries continue to grow and do what they do best. This is where the important relationships are made in the craft beverage industry, from insurance needs to fabrication, real estate, accounting and legal services. 32 spring 2018
Zajac is a leading supplier to the Craft Brewing Industry. They are a custom design build firm with the technical support and resources available to make your brewing project a success. They provide process, mechanical and Utility services. Typical systems and installations include: Brewhouse Installations, Glycol Systems, Chiller Installations, Fermentation Tank Installations, Filtration Piping, Process Skidded Systems, Valve Manifolds, CIP Systems and more. Zajac was established in 1975 as a mechanical contractor providing high purity process systems. Since then we have grown based on the founding principles of quality workmanship, process expertise, teamwork and dedication to customer service. They now employ over 90 employees with offices in Maine and New Hampshire and have customers across the US.
DESIGN + BUILD + INTEGRATE DESIGN
The key to getting a project off to a great start begins long before the first sketch. Zajac listens to the needs of the brewers to collaborate on custom solutions.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Brewery owners know first hand that coordinating contractors and various construction disciplines is time consuming. Zajac is here to help where you need it with in-house resources so you can spend your time on the important things – beer.
ENGINEERING
Decisions early-on in a project have far-reaching impacts, whether it’s equipment or line sizing or selecting the proper process measurement technology. Zajac has the experience to make sure it is done right the first time.
FABRICATION
Did you know that Zajac has four fabrication shops in New England? From long catwalks to CIP skids to tanks large and small. You can save install time and overall cost by letting Zajac pre-build and test your next project in one of our shops.
AUTOMATION
Zajac works with all brewing control systems as well as utilities and packaging control systems. If you can dream it, we can design and build it!
PACKAGING
Zajac can deliver the best names in canning, bottling, conveyors, depalletizer’s, case erector’s, rinser’s, blowers, and coder equipment—plus so much more—because downtime is bad for business.
ABOUT
A staff of over 90 employees with an average employment of 15+ years. With a loyal customer base of over 40 years we have been a true design build integrator.
FIELD INSTALLATION
Ask around the brewery, food, and pharmaceutical industries and you will find that Zajac’s fabricators, electricians and mechanical crews are known for their craftsmanship, safety, and professionalism.
EMERGENCY SERVICE
Our mechanical and electrical crews are in breweries every day. We make custom adapters, repair cracks, and troubleshoot process and utility systems. If you need service in a hurry give us a call!
GASKETS AND REPLACEMENT PARTS
Let Zajac be the first name you think of when it comes to consumables and maintenance items. We can even keep your gaskets, cleaning and test supplies stocked for you.
CALIBRATION SERVICES
We can keep you producing consistent product by keeping your instruments in top shape. Our calibration staff has a full compliment of certified instruments to make sure your flow, level, pressure and temperature devices are operating within tolerance.
CONTACT
www.zajacllc.com 207-286-9100
brewing business of
YOU KNOW BEER. WE KNOW INSURANCE. WE SHOULD BE PARTNERS.
Brewery Insurance Program from Acadia Insurance As a microbrewer, your products are unique — a reflection of you and your tastes. At ACADIA INSURANCE, we offer targeted insurance programs combined with local claims and loss control services that set us apart from the competition. Our Brewery Program is formulated for all of your major property and casualty exposures, with specialized coverage designed to help you protect your livelihood in the event of an unexpected loss, including:
800-244-9046
Contact James Sanborn at 207-446-2791 • james@ghmagency.com
Through partnerships with our customers and insurance carriers GHM INSURANCE has helped to develop comprehensive and competitively priced insurance programs for breweries, brewpubs, bars and other related businesses. With over 200 accounts in 20 states we have the experience and knowledge to help with all your insurance needs.
maine beer spoken here mainebrewguide.com/subscribe
34 spring 2018
• • • • •
Key Employee Replacement Expense Tank Leakage or Collapse Equipment Breakdown Processing Water Loss Extra Expense Food and Beverage Contamination
Why Choose Acadia Insurance? As one of the largest writers of breweries in Maine and New England with over 90 brewery customers, we have focused expertise in your industry and in providing customers with the insurance products, expertise and service to help customers manage their exposures. For more information about Acadia’s program, or for a quote, contact your local independent insurance agent or visit acadiainsurance.com. Products and services are provided by one or more insurance company subsidiaries of W. R. Berkley Corporation. Not all products and services are available in every jurisdiction, and the precise coverage afforded by any insurer is subject to applicable underwriting guidelines and the actual terms and conditions of the policies as issued.
beer
necessities PORTLAND FRUIT & NUT CO. When visiting tasting rooms in Maine, you’ll often see our premiere Spicy Pub Mix which is a savory snack best described as “fresh, tasty and quite addictive!” As part of Buy-Local, our unique labels feature picturesque images of Portland’s landmarks across our variety of 36 quality snacks. Our offerings include our must-have beer-friendly party nut mixes and rich chocolate covered nuts which pair well with just about any libation. Over 13 local tasting rooms and bars carry our products and have discovered that once sampled, they are craved! This comes as no surprise as our Spicy Pub Mix was chosen by Zest Magazine as one of the Top Three Bar Munchies! Visit our Facebook page and look for our forthcoming new website for a full listing of our wide variety of snacks. Contact us for discounted wholesale pricing for business owners or pricing for our patrons, we will ship direct to you!
Portland Fruit & Nut Co. — Maine Tasting Room’s #1 Snack of Choice —
Find in tasting rooms or contact us to enjoy at home!
Wholesale Opportunities for Breweries (207) 775-4204 Maine BrewGuide
35
In recent years, no part of the Maine brewery landscape has been more exciting than the Highland region. While the Queen City of Bangor and surrounding towns have long played second fiddle to the brewing scene in Southern Maine, an influx of talented brewers has seriously upped the area’s reputation. Now, while relaxing at a local beer bar like NOCTURNEM DRAFT HAUS, you can enjoy beer brewed by GEAGHAN BROTHERS, ORONO BREWING COMPANY, MASON’S BREWING, or a number of other Bangor-area brewers. Hardly also-rans, these beers handily compete for the title of Maine’s best brews.
greater bangor
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
2 Feet Brewing
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours. FACEBOOK
S
M
T
W
TH
F
S
Bangor
12 - 6
3-9
3-9
3-9
3-9
3 - 11
3 - 11
/2FeetBrewery
Bangor Beer Company
Bangor
11 - 11
4 - 11
4 - 11
4 - 11
4 - 11
4 - 11
11 - 11
/BangorBeer
Bear Brew Pub (Black Bear Brewing)
Orono
11:30 - 9
3-9
3-9
3 - 10
11:30 - 10
11:30 - 10
Black Bear Brewing Company
Orono
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 12
3 - 12
2 - 12
/blackbearmicrobrew
Blank Canvas Brewery
Brewer
4 -9
4 -9
4-9
/blankcanvasbrewery
Geaghan Brothers Brewing Company (Tasting Room / Brewery)
Brewer
11 - 4
3-8
3-8
3-8
12 - 8
/geaghanbros
Geaghan's Pub (Restaurant)
Bangor
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 12
11 - 1
11 - 1
/geaghans
Marsh Island Brewing
Orono
12 - 8
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 10
4 - 11
3 - 11
12 - 11
/MarshIslandBrewing
Mason's Brewing Company
Brewer
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 9
11:30 - 10
11:30 - 10
Orono Brewing Company
Orono
12 - 7
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 12
3 - 12
/oronobrewing
Orono Brewing Company - DownBangor town Bangor
12 - 7
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 10
3 - 12
3 - 12
/oronobrewing
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/seadogbangor
Bangor
OPENING SOON Mainiacal Brewing Company
3 - 10
CITY Bangor
NO TASTING ROOM – RETAIL ONLY
CITY
Friar's Brewhouse
Bucksport
Bissell Brothers
Milo
36 spring 2018
ADDRESS 349B Harlow Street
FACEBOOK /MainiacalBrewingCompany
ADDRESS 84A Main Street
FACEBOOK /friarbrew.hotmail /BissellBrothers
/BearBrew
/masonsbrewing
summer’s session-able beer reviews
ALLAGASH BREWING COMPANY, PORTLAND HOPPY TABLE BEER
Allagash Brewing Company, Portland Hoppy Table Beer 4.8% ABV
The orchestra of bright flavors packed into a bottle of Hoppy Table Beer refreshes the senses like a cool summer evening. It pours a sun-colored hue with a frothy head of tiny bubbles. The aroma is an interplay of ripe mango and pine needles from the Comet and Azacca hops used in dry hopping, along with subtle notes of lemon grass from Allagash’s signature use of coriander. Each sip releases grapefruit and fresh cut grass flavors over the palate. It finishes on the back of the tongue with crisp notes of citrus fruit, subtle pine flavor, and fruity esters from the Belgian yeast. Hoppy Table Beer is the perfect compliment to whatever summer brings your way. -Dave Patterson
BEAR BONES BEER JOHNNY RYE ALE
Bear Bones Beer
Johnny Rye Ale 4.3% ABV
Bear Bones, though small in size, is big on flavor. Amber-mahogany in appearance, Johnny Rye Ale has pleasant aromatic notes of caramel. Featuring local malt from Blue Ox and Maine Malt House, this beer’s clean mouthfeel, crisp body, and 4.3% ABV make it perfect for summer splendor. Mild in hop character, the ale’s sweetness balances well with the rye’s inherent spice, which gives you a distinct zing at finish. Whether you’re strutting through Lewiston or vacationing in Bridgton, this is a solid beer for any occasion. -John Breerwood
FORE RIVER BREWING CO. LYGONIA IPA
Gneiss
Tectonic Tomahawk, White IPA 6.7% ABV | 75 IBU
Since opening in 2013, Limerick's Gneiss Brewing Company has been crafting unique beers that pay homage to German brewing tradition, without necessarily being slavish to style. Tectonic Tomahawk is a testament to the brewers' creativity, marrying a traditional German hefeweizen (fruity, spicy, and hazy) with an India Pale Ale. Tectonic is hopped exclusively with Tomahawk hops, in layers in the boil, and again in the secondary. The resulting hybrid of the ascendant American IPA and traditional Weissbier is a surprising treat; citrusy, herbal hops paired beautifully with the estery fruit and clove of a hefe. -Josh Christie
TINT WRIST CIRCLES SAISON/FARMHOUSE ALE BREWED WITH SAAZ HOPS
Goodfire Brewing Co.
Tiny Wrist Circles Saison/Farmhouse Ale 4.4% ABV
If you are warming up to Saisons again, this beer is a game changer in the session category. As summertime sits on the horizon with warmer temperatures and outdoor recreation on the rise, this is a beer to have on hand to enjoy it all. It pours a hazy, deep amber color with a tall white head that fades quickly. It has an earthy and slight citrus aroma with a smooth and soft mouth feel. This saison has a nice clean palette with a crisp and refreshing finish, that leaves you wanting the next sip. Tiny Wrist Circles takes six weeks to brew, so it has limited releases throughout the summer in cans but can be found on draft pretty consistently. Don't miss this one! - Stanley J. Rintz
Maine BrewGuide
37
Greater Bangor
Come try our new family of beers! — TASTING ROOM NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK — Award winning Kitchen, Full Bar, Games & More!
Serving lunch, dinner, late night & kid’s menu too! In 4 locations in Maine. Open 7 days a week. All year! BANGOR 26 Front St, Bangor, ME 04401 (207) 947-8009
SO. PORTLAND 125 Western Ave. So.Portland, ME (207) 871-7000
TOPSHAM CAMDEN 1 Bowdoin Mill Island, 1 Main St. Topsham, ME Camden, ME (207) 725-0162 (207) 230-1306
Learn more about our beer on Untapped or at
BangorBeerCo
www. .com 330 Bangor Mall Boulevard | Bangor, ME | (207) 947-6960
BANGOR BEER COMPANY Bangor’s newest brewery has a fun, unique and exciting tap room with with over a dozen quality ale and lager styles brewed in their first year. Their flagship beers include Catchphrase, a delicious hazy New England IPA, Brite, a smooth Helles Lager, Oddball Stout and a wide variety of fantastic IPAs. You can also find their beers at its connected sister restaurant, the Oriental Jade, whose award winning kitchen has operated since 1978, making Bangor Beer Co. one of the only US breweries that serve an American menu alongside a full sushi & ramen bar and Chinese kitchen. The eclectic and fun tap room features unique art and comfortable decor, as well as a pinball machine, shuffleboard, board games, a free Donkey Kong Jr. machine and an outdoor patio with corn hole and other games to enjoy in the summer. Open 7 days a week, come experience "Somewhere North of Ordinary." www.bangorbeerco.com
SEA DOG BREWING COMPANY
seadogbrewing.com 38 spring 2018
SEA DOG BREWING COMPANY is a family owned brewery with a full line of handcrafted ales that capture the spirit of Maine's sea-faring history. Sea Dog ales are brewed using time-honored methods and only the finest ingredients. The brewery’s traditional brewing style results in brews with a distinctive, refreshing taste and crisp finish. For the full Sea Dog experience, visit one of their brew pubs! In Maine, you can visit one of the four locations – overlooking the Androscoggin River in Topsham, along the historic Penobscot River in Bangor, blocks from the Atlantic Ocean in the historic shipbuilding town of Camden or by the Maine Mall in South Portland. The Sea Dog pubs serve lunch and dinner daily. The Bangor location brews their beer on the premises and offers daily brewery tours. You will also find Sea Dog pubs in North Conway, NH and Orlando, FL, and a brewery and tasting room in Clearwater, FL. www.seadogbrewing.com
P A
Greater Bangor
MASON’S BREWING COMPANY, located along the scenic waterfront of the Penobscot River, is a destination for craft beer lovers. To the crew at Mason's, it's all about the beer experience, culture, and history. This makes going to Mason’s an adventure not to pass up. One of Mason’s newest projects in the works is its expansion plans that coming in 2018. Their automated brewing system allows them to distribute high quality, consistent products out of state and even out of the country. With lots
of other unique features, like a bier garden, a mug club, 16 rotating taps, West Coast gastropub food, tap takeovers and passionate staff, this place is unquestionably an asset for the greater Bangor community. Conveniently neighboring Darling's Waterfront Pavilion, Mason’s Brewing Company is the perfect place to stop before or after a show. As Mainers, our expectation for craft beer is always growing and Mason’s definitely hits that mark!
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON’S BREWING CO. AND JENNY WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY
15 Hardy Street • Brewer, ME
masonsbrewingcompany.com
(207) 989-6300 • Open 7 Days
Maine BrewGuide 39
The Maine Brew Trail Expands with
7 new
breweries Across The State
plus 16 more opening this spring and summer Photos & Text: Kim Benjamin
40 spring 2018
We have barely flipped the 2018 calendar and we can already count 16 upcoming new breweries just champing at the bit to open. This, on top of the seven recent openings in the last quarter of 2017! We can’t blame you if your head is spinning, trying to keep track of them all. According to the latest breweries joining the Maine Trail, finding a business name that hasn’t already been taken is becoming increasingly more difficult. There also seems to be a trend with varying styles pulling away from the highly popular New England IPA, so breweries can provide “beer for everyone.” Using barrels from Buxton’s River Drive Cooperage is going to allow three of these brewers to experiment with some interesting flavors in the months to follow. Be on the lookout for English styles aged in whiskey barrels, a Russian Imperial Stout, and Belgian
Nonesuch River Brewing
styles aged in apple brandy or gin barrels. A new tasting room, extended hours,
as a large two-story tasting room and restaurant, and offers an outside patio.
increased capacity, patio seating,
The “mug club” steins were made
outside distribution, and brewing/
from the clay dug during construction
fermentation classes are among the
by a local artisan. Shuler was a
goals in 2018 shared by the recently
homebrewer for 20 years prior, creating
opened breweries below. Some of the
recipes in his garage. NRB is excited to
coastal breweries have even expressed
partner with Nappi Distributors for can
interest in finding a more creative way
distribution soon in 2018.
to link together, perhaps in the form of
Portland
a brew boat tour. The following breweries have just
GOODFIRE BREWING COMPANY is the
opened their doors this season:
newest addition to #DrinkAnderson,
Scarborough
the collaborative hashtag promoting
NONESUCH RIVER BREWING honors the
located in the same building in the
river that runs through the town,
East Bayside neighborhood. Upon
“connecting all the communities” in
opening in November 2017, GBC has
Scarborough. Opened in September
concentrated on tasty IPAs, but has
2017, by owners Jeff Gambardella,
since added a crisp fresh pilsner that is
Michael Shuler (brewer), and Tim
a must try. The tasting room is family
Boardman, NRB offers sessionable ales
friendly, offering various board games
with low ABVs, making it easy to drink
as well as ample space to gather and
when paired with their handcrafted
plans for outside seating. Entrance is
food.
in the back; signage is coming in 2018!
The beautiful wooden brewpub is home to the 15BBL brewhouse, as well
four adult beverage businesses, all
The crew of four handling operations is made up of Dr. David Redding
Maine BrewGuide
41
Goodfire Brewing’s extra seating area
SOUTHERN Brickyard Hollow Brewing (Yarmouth) Corner Point Brewing Company (Berwick) Definitive Brewing Co. (Portland) Nuts and Bolts Brewery (Biddeford) Stars and Stripes Brewing (Cumberland) WESTERN Steam Mill Brewing (Bethel) MIDCOAST Bath Brewing Company (Bath) Moderation Brewing (Brunswick) Odd Alewives Farm Brewery (Waldoboro) The Pour Farm (Union) CENTRAL Lost Valley Brewing (Lewiston) NU Brewing (New Gloucester) Outland Farms Brewing (Pittsfield) Side by Each Brewing (Auburn) Sidereal Farm Brewing (Vassalboro) Waterville Brewing Company (Waterville)
the Zesty NU Bridge, which pokes fun
Kelly Scharf (GM), and Chris Beth
at the anticipated angst the two new
(Distribution Engineer). Jones, a prior
bridge constructions sites may bring to
homebrewer, gave props to industry
Gardiner commuters. The tasting room
influencers such as Dirigo, MBC, Bissell,
is a great place for locals to enjoy Trivia
Foundation, and Sebago for their
Tuesdays, live music, and craft burgers
guidance in allowing him to shadow
with plans for outdoor seating.
their operations before installing his
Augusta
own 15 BBL system.
Monmouth
CUSHNOC BREWING CO. is proud to be part
GRATEFUL GRAIN BREWING COMPANY offers a
down on Water Street. Greeted with
cozy tasting room in the Tacoma Lakes
a smile from GM Casey Hynes, you’ll
region and is a must stop on your way
find the ambiance a mix of mosaic
through central Maine. Owners Trevor
tile, tin tap backdrops and various
Knell (brewer), Tom Langlois, Ryan
levels of seating, all under the glow
Cote, and Nick Knowlton offer five
of beautiful hanging bulbs. Owners
taps using their 1BBL system. Plans
Tobias Parkhurst, James Bass, and
for 2018 include increased parking,
brewer Chris Geerlings wanted to make
an extended weekend schedule, an
sure there is “beer for everybody” by
outside patio, and the addition of food
offering varying styles of craft beers
trucks. I highly recommend their juicy
such as a Kölsch style ale, an American
grapefruit bomb, The Experience. If
IPA, a Belgian IPA and a Belgian Style
you see it on tap, grab one; it sells out fast!
Gardiner TWO GRAMPS BREWING was created by Joe and Kristy Gould in October 2017. While there are a few mainstay offerings, like Moosail and Nostalgia, Joe loves to have fun with all the others. The signage is by far the most creative I’ve seen, many tied to local landmarks or events, such as the Chadarny Maple Brown Ale that will be released for Maine Maple Sunday or
42 spring 2018
of the exciting revitalization happening
PHOTO COURTESY CUSHNOG BREWING CO.
Breweries coming soon!
(owner), Gordon Jones (brewer),
BREW NEWS
Grisette. The “Born on the Kennebec” series include daily mainstays, while the “Defend the Fort” series offer small batches, which turn over quickly. Exciting rollouts for 2018 will include the addition of a tasting room in the basement and bottling their beers for distribution.
See what is “Hop”pening at these Maine Breweries this Spring & Summer!
Ellsworth FOGTOWN BREWING COMPANY was opened in December 2017, by owners Ian Heyse and Jonathan Stein (brewer) as a family-friendly community gathering spot. Styles vary based on what Ellsworth likes, including a Pilsner, a Lambic, two sours, and American ales and lagers. The use of gin and tequila barrels for aging piqued my curiosity as a must try. They designed and built the tasting room with reclaimed lumber and bricks themselves and provide the perfect place for local artists, musicians and educators. If you’re on
NONESUCH RIVER BREWING has added
BEAR BONES BEER is
and (the return of) world
excited to announce the
traveler Emmet Boland.
Fort Kent
a 30 BBL fermenter to
first release of our Oak
Top Vibester Jesse Galko
its brewery to keep up
Aged Double C.R.E.A.M.
pours a growing fleet
FIRST MILE BREWING COMPANY was created
with demand. Keep an
in 16oz can four packs!
of fresh local lagers
by five home brewers, all part of a brew
eye out for NRB IPA and
Hitting the stores this
alongside Biddeford's
club that met to sample each other’s
Blonde out in cans mid
spring for you to enjoy all
mighty Saco Falls. "The
creations. If you ever needed a reason
May! Stop in and try
summer.
New NEPAL" takes your
to travel north, this is it. Whether
our Summer Wheat— a
you’re in town to see America’s First
light, refreshing poolside
Mile or for a day of kayaking Eagle
Hefeweizen with hints
FLIGHT DECK BREWING is now self-
Lake, FMBC is worth checking out!
of lemon and ginger.
distributing cans to select
Hopyard. Coming
With eight taps, I’m told “every beer
YUMMMM.
retail stores in Maine. You
soon: Maine Pilsner.
can also pick them up in
Schwarzbier. Champagne
our Tasting Room, named
du Maine (berlinerweisse)
"Best in Maine" by Down
in cans.
your way to Acadia, you must stop by and check it out.
has a story.”
hops to new heights with strawberry-licious Maine Cascades from Gorham's
FMBC is already talking about
PENOBSCOT BAY BREWERY now
increasing their capacity and
includes canning of their
East Magazine. Live music
finding a way to incorporate more
beer line-up with the
every Friday evening. Visit
local ingredients into their brews.
same flavorful brews in a
flightdeckbrewing.com
SOME BREWING COMPANY will be
Community food stops have created
new format of 16oz four
for our event calendar
opening a second
menus exclusively for FMBC (or you
packs with a new label
and more.
location, Summer
can bring your own in) during their
to boot. We’re open for
Open Mic Nights.
sampling, growler filling
Since opening in November 2017,
Kim Benjamin is craft beer enthusiast who believes in supporting local and loves to engage her friends and colleagues in the latest industry chatter.
and having a brew. Check
DIRIGO BREWING CO. welcomes Chief
out what is current on
Beer Navigator Ray
the Winterport Winery
Edgar, Chief Science
side of our world, too.
Officer Bryan Tavares,
2018, York Beach Beer Company. Not to worry, the existing location will be staying open!
Maine BrewGuide 43
midcoast
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
PHOTOS: CAREY KISH
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing.
Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours.
S
M
T
W
TH
F
S
11 - 9
4-9
4-9
11 - 9
11 - 9
11 - 11
11 - 11
9-5
9-5
9-5
9-5
9-5
12 - 5:30
12 - 5:30
12 - 9
12 - 9
12 - 9
/flightdeckbrewing /LakeSt.GeorgeBrewing
Bath Brewing Company
Bath
Boothbay Craft Brewery
Boothbay
Fat Friars Meadery
Newcastle
12 - 5:30
Flight Deck Brewing
Brunswick
12 - 5
Lake St. George Brewing Company
Liberty
12 - 6
3-8
3-8
12 - 8
Liberty Craft Brewing
Liberty
11:30 - 7
11:30 - 8
11:30 - 8
11:30 - 8
Marshall Wharf Brewing Company
Belfast
11 - 4
11 - 4
11 - 4
11 - 4
Monhegan Brewing Company (seasonal, May - Oct)
Monhegan
Moderation Brewing Company
Brunswick
North Haven Brewing Company
North Haven
Oxbow Brewing
Newcastle
Penobscot Bay Brewery / Winterport Winery (Seasonal, May - Oct)
Winterport
Rock Harbor Brewing Company (seasonal taproom)
Rockland
Rock Harbor Pub & Brewery
Rockland
11:30 - 11
11:30 - 11
11:30 - 11
11:30 - 11
11:30 - 11
11:30 - 12
11:30 - 12
/rockharbor.me
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
Camden
11 - 12:30
11 - 12:30
11 - 12:30
11 - 12:30 11 - 12:30
11 - 12:30
11 - 12:30
/seadogcamden
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
Topsham
10 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
11 - 1
/seadogtopsham
Sheepscot Valley Brewing Co.
Whitefield
Varies (Call Ahead)
Varies (Call Ahead)
Simplicity Brewing Co and Supplies
Warren
11 - 5
10:30 - 6
10:30 - 6
10:30 - 6
10:30 - 6
/simplicitybrewingco
Threshers Brewing Company
Searsmont
12 - 7
3-7
3 - 10
3 - 10
12 - 10
/ThreshersBrewingCo
NO TASTING ROOM – RETAIL ONLY
12 - 9
11 - 4
/Boothbay-Craft-BreweryTavern-104727574679 /The-Fat-Friar-Meadery-175864219129026
/libertycraftbrewing /Three-Tides-MarshallWharf-Brewing-Company-41135004445 /MonheganBrewingCompany
12 - 4
4-8
12 - 7
4-8
12 - 10
12 - 10
/moderationbrewing
4-7
4-7
3-6
/northhavenbrewing
12 - 7
12 - 9
12 - 7
/OxbowBeer
11 - 5
11 - 5
/Winterport-Winery-andPenobscot-Bay-Brewery-107454236064 /rhbrewing
CITY
11 - 1
11 - 1
ADDRESS
Andrew's Brewing
Lincolnville
353 High Street
Belfast Bay
Belfast
100 Searsport Avenue
The Pour Farm** Opening Soon!
Union
Crawfordsburn Lane
44 spring 2017
11 - 4
/BathBrewingCompany
FACEBOOK /Andrews-Brewing-CO-207790981772/ /thepourfarm/
/Sheepscot-valley-brewing-337885939564553
PHOTOS COUTESY OF BOOTHBAY CRAFT BREWERY
y
In an effort to meet the demand of several of its popular brands, BOOTHBAY CRAFT BREWERY has been shuffling things around in the brewery to accommodate additional cellaring tanks and a new larger brewhouse. The brewery’s first ever produced beer, "633 Pale Ale" has been a very popular style since it’s inception, and with the addition of "Thirsty Botanist", a wonderfully juicy 7% abv IPA, these brands have been keeping the crew busy brewing. Kegging, and packaging. But even during a busy winter Boothbay Craft Brewery has been putting away their barrel aged concoctions and getting ready to release 2018’s Steganos, a small batch bourbon barrel aged imperial stout that is due out sometime in early June. And new from the barrel room this year will be a first in a series of wild beers. A saison based beer that has been aging for over a year in wine barrels and dosed with several different cultures that has resulted in a delicate and complex beer that will accompany foods extremely well. Bottle conditioned in 500ml bottles, this very limited beer release will only be available at the brewery sometime starting in late May. Due to the heavy brewery demands, the adjoining Watershed Tavern will be focused solely as a tap house this year. However, they will be offering six very limited full moon beer dinners happening once a month pairing Boothbay beers with locally curated foods for a not to miss special evening. Information can be found on the brewery events page at BoothbayCraftBrewery.com
BREW PUB
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FULL MENU & LIVE MUSIC 10+ ROCK HARBOR BEERS ON TAP RATED A TOP PUB IN ROCKLAND
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416 MAIN STREET, ROCKLAND
5 PAYNE AVE, ROCKLAND
At 27 years old, Dan Pease opened ROCK HARBOR PUB at the intersection of Main and Limerock Streets in Rockland, Maine, with the idea of someday turning it into a brewpub. After two years of growing the business into one of Rockland’s favorite pubs and restaurants, Dan grabbed the opportunity when a brewery in southern Maine closed its doors. He purchased their equipment, installed it in Rock Harbor Pub, licensed the new Rock Harbor Brewing Co., and started brewing and serving in October 2013. In 2017, Dan took his brewing operation to the next level, purchasing a building at 5 Payne Avenue in Rockland and turning it into an off-site brewery and tasting room. Today Dan is canning and packing Rock Harbor beer for distribution throughout the state.
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mainebrewguide.com/subscribe Maine BrewGuide
45
Why should the mainland have all the fun? This summer, another Maine island boasts a brewery that’s only accessible by plane or boat. Visitors to North Haven can now enjoy
Liz and I, and she was just like ‘we
balanced, English-style beers from the
should really sell this.’ ”
comfort of a funky basement space with a view of a 130-year-old boatyard.
By: Courtney Naliboff
After three years of planning and building out the space underneath
“We had a couple of one-offs, like
the newly renovated Calderwood Hall
AM Stout, that people really love,”
celebrated its first birthday in
(also home to several apartments,
Lovell said. The coffee stout was
November, was founded by Ben and
a film production studio and the
a collaboration with between the
Elizabeth Lovell, siblings who grew up
Calderwood Hall restaurant) North
brewery and 44 North Coffee, located
on North Haven and Ben’s childhood
Haven Brewing Co. opened for
on Stonington Island. Another one-off,
best friend, Jesse Davisson, a life-long
business in the winter of 2017.
Sailor’s Warning, a red ale, featured
North Haven Brewing Co., which
Locals and tourists alike flock to
islander. Ben and Elizabeth left to attend
North Haven Brewing Co. for the beer
North Haven-inspired rose hips. The brewery’s social scene is another
Bowdoin College, and chose to return
selection, which ranges from regular
reason for both locals and tourists
to the island as adults. The brewery
offerings such as Keeper (a hoppy
to visit. The space hosts weekly pub
got its start when Ben and Jesse
IPA), Highliner (a crowd-pleasing pale
theology and occasional live acoustic
decided to see how far they could take
ale), and Barrel Stove Brown Ale to
music. Curious passersbys come in
their home-brewing hobby.
more esoteric one-offs featuring local
for the first time to check out the
ingredients, which can be enjoyed
operation, which features stainless
we decided that we’d brew beer
in the tasting room or taken home
steel vats behind a glass wall for easy
because we had the whole winter off,”
in refillable growlers. Restaurants
viewing.
Lovell said. “We just kind of kept at it,
on North Haven, Vinalhaven and
kept brewing, kept taking classes …
Rockland have featured North Haven
in and see the equipment right there
one day we were sitting on the beach,
Brewing Co. beers on tap as well.
behind the glass,” Lovell said.
“As Jesse and I were both fishermen,
“It’s fun for us to have people come
“It’s a conversation starter,” Liz added. North Haven Brewing Co.’s tasting
FUN FACT 46 spring 2018
room hours can be found on their
According to the Maine Brewers’ Guild website, of all Maine’s active breweries, only two (NORTH HAVEN BREWING CO. and MONHEGAN BREWING CO.) are on islands!
website www.northhavenbrewing.com
Courtney Naliboff lives, writes, plays music, teaches and parents on North Haven island.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORTH HAVE BREWING CO.
NORTH HAVEN BREWING CO.
an island brewery that’s worth the trip
PHOTO_CAREY KISH
downeast
In this stretch from Bucksport to Lubec, you'll find a mix of Maine's brewing originators and innovators. Mount Desert Island is home to Atlantic Brewing Company and Maine Coast Brewing Company, two of the oldest breweries in the state, while Airline Brewing Company, Lubec Brewing Company, and Strong Brewing Company have all opened in recent years.
By Josh Christie
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
Airline Brewing Company Brewery
Amherst
12 - 8
Airline Brewing Company Pub
Ellsworth
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
Bar Harbor
10 - 6
10 - 6
10 - 6
Bar Harbor
11:30 - 8
Atlantic Brewing Company (seasonal, Memorial Day - mid-October)
Atlantic Brewing Midtown (seasonal)
S
M
T
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours. W
TH
F
S
4 - 10
4 - 10
12 - 10
/airlinebrewingcompany
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
11 - 10
/airlinebrewingcompany
10 - 6
10 - 6
10 - 6
10 - 6
/atlanticbrewing
11:30 - 8
11:30 - 8
11:30 - 8
/atlanticbrewingmidtown
DeepWater Brewing Co (seasonal)
Blue Hill
4:30 - 8
4:30 - 8
4:30 - 8
/DeepWater-BrewingCo-264815220234618
Fogtown Brewing Company
Ellsworth
4 - 10:30
4 - 10:30
4 - 10:30
/fogtownbrewing
4-9
4-9
4-9
/Jackrussellssteakhouse
2 - 8:30
2 - 8:30
2 - 8:30
/Lubec-Brewing-Company-1406990739591377
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-1
/Machias-RiverBrewing-Company-675328812601331
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
12 - 7
/StrongBrewingCompany
Jack Russell's Steakhouse (Maine Bar Harbor Coast Brewing Company)
4-9
Lubec Brewing Company
Lubec
Machias River Brewing Company
Machias
1-8
Strong Brewing Company
Sedgwick
12 - 5
4-9
4-9
4-9
2 - 8:30 4 - 11
AIRLINE BREWING COMPANY is a rural Maine brewery specializing in Britishstyle beers and Real Cask Ales. Airline Brewing is expanding its brewing system with a refurbishment of the rural Paul Bunyan furniture mill located on Route 9 in Amherst. Stop by and try a flight of beers and get a tour of the new system. The brewery serves the Downeast community of Maine and is located on the scenic Airline Rd (Route 9) in Amherst between Bangor and Canada. You can stop by the brewery tasting room and have a pint with the locals and take a growler out to camp. Or sample our full range of beers and tasty grub at our English Pub-themed tasting room in downtown Ellsworth, where people come to relax and socialize with friends, family, and strangers.
Maine BrewGuide
47
PHOTO: BUCK FARMS/MAINE MALT HOUSE
the county
tasting room directory NAME
CITY
Northern Maine Brewing Co.
Caribou
First Mile Brewing Company
Fort Kent
MAY 19, 2018
John A. Millar Civic Center 94 Randall Ave. • Houlton, ME (207) 532-4216
S
12 - 7
M
T
Note: Hours were accurate as of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm hours. W
TH
F
S
4-9
4-9
4 - 10
4 - 10
/Northern-Maine-BrewingCo-LLC-1575977852690743
3:30 - 9
3:30 - 9
3:30 - 9
3-9
/firstmilebrewing
JOIN US AT NORTHERN MAINE’S PREMIER BEER FESTIVAL as we celebrate Maine’s brewers who are brewing up some of the best beer on the planet and have put our state back on the map! Sample amazing beers, talk to fellow enthusiasts and meet some of the best brewers in the state. Delicious craft food will also be available for purchase. Come TASTE THE BITE!!! 2018 BREWERY LINE UP: Blank Canvas Brewing, Bigelow Brewing, SoMe Brewing Co., Banded Horn Brewing, Penobscot Bay Brewing, Winterport Winery, Barreled Souls Brewing, Seadog Brewing, The Boston Beer Company, 2 Feet Brewing, Mast Landing, Lord Hobo, Northern Maine Brewing Co., Hidden Spring Winery, Threshers Brewing, Geaghan Brothers, First Mile Brewing, Bangor Beer Company, Foul Mouthed Brewing, Cushnoc Brewing Company, Liquid Riot, Boothbay Craft Brewery, Two Gramps Brewery, Urban Farm Fermentory, Hidden Cove Brewing Co., Rock Harbor Brewing Co, Baxter Brewing, and Ricker Hill. The Blackfly Brewfest is brought to you by these sponsors: NAPA, S.W. Collins, Wine Until Nine, Dead River, J. McLaughlin Construction, Agri-Cal, Hy-Grow Organics, Shiretown Taxi, The Thirsty Dawg, Shiretown Inn and Suites, York's of Houlton, F.A Peabody, Tidd's Sportshop, County Yankee Grocer, The Greater Houlton Chamber Of Commerce
May 19th at the John A. Millar Civic Center THE THIRSTY DAWG BOTTLE SHOP was established May 2010 in an effort to bring the craft beer movement to Aroostook County. Offering the largest beer and wine selection in the County or north of Bangor for that matter. As one of the original organizers of Black Fly Brewfest, the Thirsty Dawg is an enthusiastic supporter of craft beer and local Maine craft beer with 40+ Maine breweries in stock. A must visit if you love great beer! 48 spring 2018
PHOTO: PAUL CYR
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