Thirst Magazine November-December 2019

SERVING UP THE COLORADO EXPERIENCE

Vol. 5, No. 1 November-December 2019

POWDER SEEKERS

PERFECT SNOWMOBILE DESTINATIONS

SILENT NIGHTS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK WITHOUT THE CROWDS

9

WINTER WARMERS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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ADVISORY BOARD Jean Ditslear Owner, 300 Suns Brewing

Sean Smiley Owner, State 38 Distilling

Bess Dougherty Head Brewer, Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe and Brewery

Alan Laws Owner, Laws Whiskey House Charlie Sturdavant Owner, Golden City Brewery

Publisher Paul Johnson paul@thirstcolorado.com Associate Publisher & Editor Joe Ross joe@thirstcolorado.com

As the weather changes and we get closer and closer to the most wonderful time of the year, it’s fun to recall memories of holidays gone by.

Vice President of Sales Tod Cavey tod@thirstcolorado.com

We’ve all had joyous occasions. Maybe it’s a new branch on your family tree, or camaraderie in a house full of loved ones who have gathered for the holidays.

Design & Layout Michele Garner

And we’ve all had a few awkward memories, too. Who hasn’t faced an airport nightmare?

And there was that post-Thanksgiving episode when the little angels had a food fight with the leftovers while the adults slept on the couch? Or, when you had a few holiday cocktails and debated the finer points of political philosophy with your in-laws.

Be it good, bad, or somewhere between, holiday memories shape our experiences for years to come.

We’re interested in hearing your fond, funny, or maybe even crazy holiday stories! We will compile our favorites during the next month or so and we will publish them on thirstcolorado.com. Please keep your stories PG-13 so we don’t have to edit them too heavily.

Send your favorites to joe@thirstcolorado.com and look for them to be posted midDecember when the snow is flying and the Hanukkah and Christmas plans are stressing everyone out.

Remember, live your passion and thirst responsibly this holiday season.

Paul Johnson Publisher & Tasting Guru

President & Founder Wilbur E. Flachman Marketing & Distribution Neill Pieper Editorial Assistant Natasha Lovato Editorial Intern Katie Lee Contributors Will Coonradt, Steve Graham, Kyle Kirves, Lisa McIntyre, Emily Moyer, Kristin Owens, Dionne Roberts, Angie Wright For advertising and editorial information, please contact Joe Ross at 303.428.9529 Ext. 227 or email joe@thirstcolorado.com Proud member of the Brewers Association and the Colorado Brewers Guild Thirst Colorado is produced by The Publishing House, a division of Colorado Word Works, Inc. The Publishing House also produces Colorado’s Performing Arts Publications, serving arts venues along the Front Range.

7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, Colorado 80030 303.428.9529

Drink up life in large amounts, but restrict your alcohol consumption. We do not endorse or support excessive drinking.

Thirst Colorado is published six times a year by The Publishing House, 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, CO 80030. © The Publishing House, 2019. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

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November-December 2019

Except where noted, the content of Thirst Colorado is the property of the magazine and should only be reprinted with permission. Thirst Colorado is not responsible for false or misleading claims made in advertising or editorial materials published herein. Thirst Colorado Magazine is distributed in part by DJM Distribution, Inc., and Community Racks Distribution, LLC.

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THIRST COLORADO | November-December 2019

34

INTERSECTIONS

32 Untapped

Festivals, food and other fun for your early winter schedule

38 Holiday Gift Guide

Perfect gifts that any adventurous Coloradan would enjoy

42 Art of Brewing

18

Paddle into Eddyline’s colorful outdoor universe

48 Prime Pairings

Savory recipes to try at home during the winter months

30

8

52 Strange Brew

Taste a transitional brew from a transitioning brewery

56 Tales from the Lying Log A spirited affair unfolds in the Colorado backcountry

60 Brewery, Distillery, Winery, Cidery and Meadery Guide Find great craft beverages wherever you end up in Colorado

On the cover: Snowmobiling gets you deep into some backcountry fun.

ADVENTURES

Photo: ©02irina /Adobe Stock

42

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November-December 2019

8 Sled It!

Thousands of acres of powder are just waiting to be carved up this winter

24

All Aboard

The Winter Park Express conductor invites everyone to board the train

12

Warming Up

30

Mile High Music

18

Winter Wonderland

34

Caffeinated Perfection

22

Serious Whisky

46

Good Eats

Get warm from the inside out with these seasonal brews

Rocky Mountain National Park offers great winter recreation

Spirit Hound Distillery doesn’t take their craft lightly

Blue collar rockers pump out Springsteen-esque sound

Try one of these Front Range roasters for high-quality joe

Expect the unexpected at this Colorado Springs eatery

Hazel’s for the Holidays Gifts Cards Available In-store and Online

RIDE YOUR WAY DEEP INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY

By The Thirst Colorado Team

Photo: Neill Pieper

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W

hether you plan to sled through the powder on your own or let a guide show you the way, snowmobiling is a great way to access the backcountry with relative ease.

A snowmobile allows nearly anyone to enjoy the deep woods in Colorado without getting in shape or honing their skills. Just jump on board and enjoy the ride.

Here are a few destinations for the sled owner who plans to gather up the gang and hit the powder at their leisure. Additionally, beginners will find a few outlets with friendly guides to show you the ropes and direct you toward the Continental Divide or other locations that are tough to reach in the dead of winter.

Or rent a machine and head out without a guide. Just make sure you return the sled in one piece. In the early winter months, watch for landmines that can interrupt a fantastic day with costly repairs.

GRAND TIMES AT GRAND LAKE

Grand Lake’s nickname is the “Snowmobile Capital of Colorado,” with good reason. Featuring more than 1,000 miles of trails, simply jump on the Grand Lake Town Trail and rev your way into the hills for some excitement.

“If you’ve never snowmobiled before or you’re a beginning snowmobiler, we definitely recommend starting out with a guide,” according to the local tourism board. “Then once you’re up to speed, keep exploring Grand Lake or any of Grand County’s snowmobiling hotspots.”

In Grand Lake, it’s common for the avid snowmobiler to ride downtown for dinner or lunch in the dead of winter. Many people who stay in the area or have homes between Grand Lake and Granby ride in and out of town for refreshments and food.

SILVERTON FOR GOLD-MEDAL FUN

Photo: © LUGOSTOCK / Adobe Stock

Sending a novice sledder into the white gold found in the Silverton-area mountains would be like dropping a first-time skier onto Bella Coola in British Columbia. They might be in over their heads — literally.

Left: Winding your way around southwest Colorado is a great way to escape the winter slope crowds.

Right: Great backcountry riding is available all over the state.

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 9

Photo: © hollandog / Adobe Stock

Blasting through the snow toward the area’s 14,000-foot peaks may be more suited for experts, yet there is something for everyone in the San Juan Mountains.

The area near Molas Pass sports great views of the surrounding peaks and has everything from groomed trails to tree-filled steeps. The last thing you want to do is bury a machine many miles from any possible assistance, so you’d better know what you’re doing or hire a local guide.

STEAMBOAT IS UPLIFTING

Around Steamboat Springs, numerous companies can help you find your way up to the Continental Divide, where the snow is deep all winter long. The iconic rabbit ears atop the pass of the same name have become a destination for experienced riders and newbies alike. This area, located in Routt National Forest, has wide open meadows, extensive tree-filled paths and views that stretch for miles.

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November-December 2019

Area tour companies also offer guided trips on private land if you’re looking for a secluded experience. Or check out the popular Buffalo Pass area, known for its dry, deep and champagne-like snow. It’s some of the best in the region, according to the Steamboat Snowmobiles staff.

VAIL PASS WINTER RECREATION AREA

One of the most popular areas to ride, the Vail Pass Recreational Area, is a powder haven for recreationalists of all sorts.

Groomed paths are designated as motorizedonly, shared use, or non-motorized. Because of its ease of access along Interstate 70, this area tends to see a whole lot of usage, but if you’re looking for a quick trip into the backcountry, this is the spot for you.

Trails are rated similar to ski runs (green through black) and the U.S. Forest Service provides maps on their website of the 50 miles of groomed trails and 67 miles of motorized trails.

As with all snowmobiling adventures, make sure you are up to date on avalanche awareness and check local weather reports if you go out without a guide.

WINTER PARK WONDERLAND

Winter Park is considered the gateway to Colorado’s snowmobiling. Grand Adventures provides guides for all ages and skill levels.

When families gather for the holidays, one or more people might not be up for skiing or boarding, but they can still enjoy the powder. Saddle up for a quick trip up to the Continental Divide with the help of a 180-horsepower engine that does all the work for you.

When the snow gets deep, reservations become more important, especially if you have a large group that wants to enjoy a morning of brisk thrills.

A NEIGHBORHOOD ABOVE IT ALL

A NEIGHBORHOOD ABOVE IT ALL

A NEIGHBORHOOD ABOVE IT ALL

A NEIGHBORHOOD ABOVE IT ALL

A

A

Winter Seasonals to Warm the Cockles of Your Heart Make Your Holiday Season Merrier

By Kristin Owens

‘T

© vladorlov / Adobe Stock

is the season for extended family, parties and chillier temps. Lucky for us, Colorado has plenty of winter warmers with higher alcohol percentages, bold flavors and dark hues – perfect for mitigating holiday stresses. Available now (but with limited production), these seasonals will kick fall’s pumpkin spice to the curb ... just as some of you fantasize doing that to your in-laws. C’mon, embrace the urge to eat, drink and be merry.

It’s the holidays!

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Coffee Baltic Porter

Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, Fort Collins & Denver As the desiccated turkey carcass lies in its final repose and Black Friday ads cover napping family members on the couch, consider a little something special just for you. This smooth porter uses locally sourced Method Roasters coffee beans to help keep hosting responsibilities humming. Give thanks for this well-balanced beer with chocolate, cocoa and dark fruit notes. If you can’t escape to either of their two tap rooms, pick up a 6-pack at the local liquor store. Plus, it’s perfect with pie.

Hibernation

Great Divide Brewing, Denver No one likes to hang holiday lights balanced precariously on a frozen ladder – at least not without a reward. Afterwards settle by the cozy fireplace with a snuggly blanket and this English-style old ale.

A rich maltiness combined with chocolate, gingerbread, toast and sweet coffee will swaddle you in comfort and warm the chill from your bones. Finally, a complex beer for a complex task. Thank goodness it comes in both cans and kegs.

Mountain Man

Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project, Loveland A seasonal favorite, this Strong Scottish Ale makes its annual appearance in December, just in time to cushion stressful family visits. It’s aged in wood from local distilleries Axe and the Oak, and Feisty Spirits, giving it a big ol’ Colorado hug. At a whopping 12 percent ABV, and tasting like vanilla, molasses and bourbon, it’ll be all smiles around the politically charged dining table. Bring a few bottles as gifts and elevate your status to “the favorite.”

Oil Man

Elevation Beer Co., Poncha Springs Black as coal and your uncle’s holiday soul, this imperial stout has a robust flavor profile. The chocolate head is a give-away; expect lovely layers of bourbon enhancing the malt-forward mouthfeel.

This popular brew is part of Elevation’s barrel-aged series, but with a limited run of 140 cases in 750 milliliter bottles, sharing is extremely optional. It’s guaranteed to soften the holiday blues – or your ego while wearing grandma’s handknitted sweater.

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Wake Up Dead Nitro

Left Hand Brewing, Longmont Too many parties? Feeling a little spent? Relax. Lounge in your PJs and binge watch that series hibernating in “saved” for the past year. This canned imperial stout has dark, dried fruits and licorice with grounding coffee notes. The added nitro gives it a velvety mouthfeel for a super smooth finish. It’s aged for months, which is roughly how long it’ll take to pay off your holiday credit card debt. But at 10.2 percent ABV, you won’t care.

Sweater Party

Avery Brewing, Boulder It’s time for the ugly-sweater party your friends are insisting you host. So, you deserve some liquid compensation. At a balmy 8 percent ABV, Avery’s Sweater Party is the perfect brew to turn that frown upside down. It’s packed with specialty malts and mulling spices, including zesty holiday favorites such as cinnamon, orange peel, allspice, clove, and ginger. On the upside, your now rosy cheeks complement that flamboyant red sweater.

Isolation Ale

Odell Brewing, Fort Collins For you Grinch types, sometimes the best thing for Christmas is to be isolated. Save your family the grumbles and coal, and embrace your inner Scrooge, all while pounding a few Isolation Ales. The sweet-caramel malt of this ale is balanced by a subtle crisp hop finish, perfect for bringing a little cheer to your heart, albeit two sizes two small.

Euphoria Pale Ale

Contributor Kristin Owens passed the Court of Master Sommeliers’ Introductory Examination and travels the world looking for a good $10 bottle of wine. She’s a full-time writer based in Fort Collins.

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© vladorlov / Adobe Stock

Ska Brewing, Durango Euphoria! You know, that feeling you experience when you return to your childhood home for the holidays. All is good in the world, a Charlie Brown Christmas is a ringin’, the fireplace is ablaze and good tidings are abuzz. Open the fully stocked fridge and grasp your local craft favorite, in this case, a Euphoria Pale Ale. A huge malt profile with ample caramel notes, gives this winter seasonal brew a plentiful 6.2 percent ABV backbone.

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ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

By Emily Moyer

A

s heavy snow descends from the dark night sky and dusts the tops of trees, the only sounds are the howling winter winds and crunching snow under your boots.

Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) sees about three million visitors during the peak season between July and September.

While visitors enjoy driving the long winding roads up to the Continental Divide in the warm, summer months, winter is full of the solitude, adventure and enchantment that people long for when they come to explore the mysterious Rocky Mountains.

Here is a sampling of the off-season activities available in Colorado’s most famous national park.

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Night-Sky Photography

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most sought-after destinations in the state for night-sky photography, although many lack the adventurous spirit to get into the park during the winter months.

Gary Kochel is a Colorado photographer who shoots the Milky Way from the park.

Kochel suggests that aspiring winter shutterbugs invest in a good pair of gloves, pack an extra layer or two and strap on spikes or wear snowshoes.

“The park at night provides a different understanding of the size of nature,” Kochel says. “At night, the Milky Way makes the Rockies look small in comparison to the vast

size of our galaxy. It’s a valuable, therapeutic reminder that minor life problems are insignificant in the larger scheme of things.”

Clouds permitting, mid-February and March are the best times to frame up the Milky Way. The sky is darker because the axis of the earth is tilting away from the sun, which creates a visual arch over the horizon.

Kochel says it’s a great time to create interesting compositions with mountains and lakes. The Milky Way will be best viewed just before twilight.

“I plan my shoots between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m.,” Kochel says. “A positive of night photography is my photo shoots end with a gorgeous sunrise.”

Photo: © vetal1983 / Adobe Stock

at dusk. A quality camera will help preserve the scene. Or, grab binoculars for a more detailed view of an elk exhaling steamy breaths into the cool air.

Also, remember to respect wildlife in the park by keeping a safe distance of at least 75 feet. And never feed the animals, which teaches them to become dependent on humans as a food source.

The night sky comes alive in the winter months in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Photo: Gary Kochel Photography

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is among the most underrated winter activities. It is a great source of fun and exercise because most anyone can participate. You don’t necessarily have to be athletic or coordinated, fit or young. And the crisp views are stunning. If you thought Dream Lake was your favorite hike in the summer, just wait until you see it in winter with powder-dusted peaks around it.

With a fraction of the summer crowd, you are much more likely to spot wildlife along your hike. Pack a picnic and trek into the park to capture the child-like wonder of the chilled, wintery landscape.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is one of the biggest attractions in RMNP, summer or winter.

Although there is no guarantee, winter can be the best time to view elk, turkeys, coyotes, moose and deer. Winter birdwatching is most ideal when the vibrant blues of the mountain bluebird or bright yellows of the goldfinch stand out against the white snow.

Many larger animals can be seen in and around the park. They wander through adjacent towns such as Grand Lake and Estes Park because of the cold and icy conditions at higher altitudes.

Animals are most active just after the break of dawn, and just before the sun sets

Igloo Camping

When you think of cold, winter nights, camping might be the last thing that comes to mind. However, winter camping is not just for extremists anymore because technology is providing new ways to keep warm and pack lightly.

Although tents and campers are options, building a structure is preferable for igloo enthusiast Ed Huessers, or “Igloo Ed” as he is known by the locals. He has created snow and ice structures since the late 1990s but began experimenting with winter camping in snow caves in 1977 in his childhood home of North Dakota.

“Snow caves were a lot of work and didn’t last long enough for them to be worth the effort other than having an epic winter campout,” Huessers says. “The igloos last much longer and they are a lot less strenuous to build than snow caves.”

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Photo: © Coy St. Clair / Adobe Stock

“I love winter with the clean layer of snow on everything making it so fresh,” Huessers says. “Even the air smells clean. The dead quiet is almost overwhelming but I love it.”

Waking up to 360-degree views atop the summit of a winter wonderland is how Huessers likes to relax each winter.

The beauty of the park remains hidden to all but a few with the spirited heart to seek adventure in the vast, white wonderland.

Emily Moyer enjoys skiing, photography and all things outdoors. She will soon graduate from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a degree in convergent journalism with a focus in mass communications.

Photo: © kamolcha / Adobe Stock

An igloo provides warmth and shelter on cold winter nights in the park.

Photos: Ed Huessers

He says the adventurous types should always consult with park officials for permits, regulations and weather forecasts before venturing into the backcountry.

In 1998 Huessers invented the Icebox Tool, an igloo-building contraption that forms blocks. Ever since, Igloo Ed has spent every possible moment camping in the backcountry of Colorado.

His source of warmth on cold nights is an iso-butane lantern, or sometimes candles.

That is all Huessers needs to stay warm because the igloo’s ice is a great insulator for the heat and it keeps out the wind on cold stormy nights.

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WHISKY IS SERIOUS BUSINESS AT SPIRIT HOUND Yes, there are rules to creating great whisky

By Kyle Kirves

I

Craig Englehorn

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t was World Whisky Day on Planet Earth.

I was standing in the workshop of Spirit Hound Distillers in Lyons holding a glass the shape of an antique oil lamp and listening to head distiller Craig Englehorn walk through the steps that go into conjuring the elixir inside. It’s a little like hearing an alchemist tell you how he turns pig iron into platinum. Part teacher of the distilling art, part preacher of the whisky faith, Englehorn is Spirit Hound’s resident evangelist in all things, uh, spiritual.

A self-described traditionalist, he looks to the tried-and-true methods of old world distillers when crafting his spirits. “There is

a reason for the wood to whisky ratio in this barrel,” Englehorn says, tapping a brand new, charred oak whisky barrel. “Use anything smaller, it will be over-oaked,” or have a charred, campfire-esque taste. Anything bigger and you lessen the character of the wood in the whisky. “I won’t say there’s nothing new under the sun in distilling. But if it could have been done another way, it probably has by somebody, somewhere, sometime. The methods work out there,” he says, meaning the world of Big Whisky, “and if they work there, they work here.”

Industry methods and best practices are

one thing. Results, though, absolutely vary. If you’re looking for the burn you might get from drinking what your (ahem) old grandad might have tippled, you’ve come to the wrong place.

“Our whisky has a more delicate character to it,” Englehorn says, “with a warm finish that isn’t over oaked. There’s a lot going on in there, flavor-wise.”

I take a sip of some of Spirit Hound’s stillin-process rye while Englehorn continues the lesson. And another. Hell, I’m getting smarter by the minute. At this rate, I’ll be a bona fide genius by the end of the tutorial.

And what a lecture hall it is. Yes, Spirit Hound consciously cultivates a rum-runner vibe with its rustic tasting room and lean,

“

I won’t say there’s nothing new under the sun in distilling. But if it could have been done another way, it probably has by somebody, somewhere, sometime.

- Craig Englehorn, head distiller

”

catlike bootlegger ride parked outside, but don’t let the weathered wood, antiques, and tin-tacker signs fool you. This place takes its spirits seriously – and if you do, too, it can become quite the classroom.

While we’re talking, a tourist in an outback hat wanders into the distilling room, holding a rocks glass wrapped in a cocktail napkin.

He drawls in an accent I can’t quite place and says that the bartender told him to come back and “check out your shit.” Englehorn smiles and invites him into the conversation with a wave. World Whisky Day is, after all, more about the consumers than the distillers. When he mentions the net end result of all of the work that goes into the distilling process, the visitor halts him with an upturned palm. “What does that mean, bottle and bonded?”

“Bottled and bonded,” Englehorn says, “has a very specific meaning. It means produced entirely in one place, bottled by us in a single season, and then that’s aged for at

least four years.” That, he explains, is what the term means, industry-wide.

But that’s just one glossed term in the whisky lexicon.

I’m not saying Englehorn should host courses in whisky appreciation – but he definitely could.

Another term you might want to know?

Finishing.

“Finishing,” he says, “is when you take a whisky that’s been aged in its original, new barrel and transfer it late in the process to a new barrel that may have served another purpose.”

Like, for instance, the way Spirit Hound is currently working with Bee Squared apiary in a collaborative back-and-forth that is creating whisky-accented honey (putting a little more “old fashioned” on that Thomas’ old fashioned muffin) and honeyed barrels for finishing whisky. “What we do is, we give Bee Squared our whisky barrels and they age or condition their honey in the barrel,” says Englehorn. That, though, is only half of it. “They take that honey out, give us back the barrel, and then we finish a barrel of our whisky in that honeyed barrel.” But make no mistake: this is 100 percent whisky with a honey finish -- not the forty-proof “honey liqueur” you might find next to the bottles of the ol’ Kentucky labels.

“What we want,” he says of the honey collaboration “is innovation while appreciating and celebrating traditions in our own way. We are not,” he says, “focusing on the mass-produced.”

When I ask what else might be in store for Spirit Hound or what’s next on the horizon, the teacher smiles and says, “A drink.”

Here, I take it, endeth the lesson. Or maybe it’s just beginning.

IF YOU GO

Spirit Hound Distillers 4196 Ute Hwy. (U.S. 36) Lyons, CO 80540 spirithounds.com 303-823-5696 Kyle Kirves drinks beer, plays guitar, runs trails, and manages projects – all with varying degrees of success. While not a craftsman himself, he is quite content writing about the Colorado artisans who create such wonderful things and memorable experiences.

Photos: Angie Wright

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 23

FORWARD-THINKING SKI TRAIN CONDUCTOR OFFERS From Bible running to rail running, Brad Swartzwelter is all in

By Lisa McIntyre

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November-December 2019

T

The Winter Park Express arrives with excited passengers who are ready to hit the slopes. Photo courtesy of Winter Park Resort Inset: Conductor Brad Swartzwelter Photo: Lisa McIntyre

he conductor’s cap sits nobly atop his head as he sounds the train whistle while departing Denver’s Union Station. Brad Swartzwelter, a 25year train veteran, pilots Amtrak’s California Zephyr and its Winter Park Express passenger train over the lofty Rocky Mountains.

Swartzwelter, 55, dreamed of being a train conductor from the time he set up the model train that wound around his bedroom floor as a child.

“Now I operate a 1:1 scale model train that runs 400 miles,” he says, sporting a childlike grin.

As a youngster, while fishing with his father from the banks of the Colorado River west of Fraser, he remembers anticipating the passing of Amtrak’s California Zephyr making its run from Chicago to San Francisco.

It was that same train that first brought him to Colorado in 1964 when, at two-weeks-old, he and his family moved west from Iowa to join his father who had been transferred to Lowry Air Force Base.

He recalls his mom’s story of needing to return to Iowa for his great-grandfather’s funeral during a snowstorm in 1966. She loaded her three children, all under the age five, onto the California Zephyr. The conductor and staff, recognizing her situation, moved them to a first-class car for the nightlong trip. The seeds of rail travel were planted and the story remains with him as he creates the passenger experience today.

“When my mother tells me the story, it reminds me of what’s important in my job,” he says. “Throwing switches and keeping the train over the tracks is all good … but the important stuff is taking care of the people who need it the most.”

Traveling onboard one of his trains is like sitting front row at a Red Rocks Amphitheatre show — you just can’t get enough.

Swartzwelter first positions himself at the instrument panel where he can view the world 20-feet above the tracks. He completes safety checks with the crew and eventually turns everything over to the train’s engineer.

Now it’s time to work his magic. He walks the chair-lined aisles of each train car greeting passengers with a handshake and a smile, as if you’ve just sat down on his living room sofa. Along the route, he shares historical facts that bring life to the mountains, tunnels, and structures that are passing by.

His infectious energy helps passengers connect to the verbal history lesson.

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 25

Below: Passengers board the California Zephyr at Union Station in Denver. Right: Winter excitement is just beginning as skiers and boarders arrive in Winter Park.

Photos: Lisa McIntyre

Early Wheels of Determination

As a young man, he ignored the tug of railroading to attend an Upward Bound program that combined Bible studies with mountaineering in the Austrian Alps. While in Europe, he found a wanderlust in which he could serve a greater purpose: Bible running.

The Eastern Bloc countries were under communist rule and he knew the kids needed Bibles. He and a colleague printed children’s Bibles in Vienna, then distributed them to the other side of the Iron Curtain for several months in his old Zastava Yugo junker.

That’s when he met Barbara, a girl from a small village outside of Vienna. He was 20, she 15. Their families met and supported their relationship. He then courted her until she graduated from high school. Soon after, they married in Austria. He and Barbara headed for Colorado to start their family.

Once here, he continued to pursue life with a commitment to matters greater than himself.

“Who’s ever accomplished anything great by being half-in?” he says, when discussing his steadfast approach. Swartzwelter also has an entrepreneurial current that pulses through him with fervor and grit.

He eventually earned his Travel Administration and Tourism degree from Metropolitan State University in 1994. In addition, he launched Denver’s first pedalcab business. With the opening of Coors Field and the new Colorado Convention

26 ThirstColorado.com

November-December 2019

Center, the timing was right. He and his business partner worked closely with the city’s leaders, Mayor Federico Peña and John Hickenlooper, then executive director for the Downtown Denver Partnership, to establish regulations that paved the way for today’s successful pedal-cab businesses.

After he sold his share of the business, he took an internship with Amtrak and the Winter Park Ski Train, finally starting his career in rail. Transportation has continued to drive him toward the future.

In 2003 Swartzwelter published a book, “Faster Than Jets,” which addressed highspeed underground rail travel using magnetics and vacuum propulsion. His book tackled the idea of tube transportation, or hyperloop, long before Elon Musk pushed the idea to the fore. Swartzwelter is still involved in keeping new transportation technology in the minds of developers, media and the government.

Renewed Success for the Express

Swartzwelter’s tenure as conductor was, of course, preceded by nearly 70 years of ski train history. From 1940 to 2009, sightseers and skiers rode the rails from Denver to Winter Park long before the interstate highway system was completed and before Berthoud Pass was improved. The ski train stopped running when plans were launched to remodel Union Station.

His passion to get passengers back on the ski train drove the return of the nostalgic Winter Park Ski Train in 2015, now known as

Amtrak’s Winter Park Express.

An article published in 2014 by the Colorado Rail Passenger Association (ColoRail), a nonprofit passenger-rail advocacy group, mentioned the notion of bringing the ski train back and having Amtrak pay for it. It piqued Swartzwelter’s interest, and he thought, “Hey, I work at Amtrak! That’s a great idea!”

With the help of ColoRail, Swartzwelter orchestrated a tour of the newly designed Denver Union Station for Amtrak executives and the leaders of Winter Park Resort. He put together a business plan that gained the support and approval from all parties: Amtrak, Union Pacific Railway, Colorado Department of Transportation, City of Denver and the trade unions.

“Brad’s a real forward-thinking kind of guy,” attests Craig Meis, a former Winter Park Ski Train conductor, and the person that first brought Swartzwelter onboard as an Amtrak intern.

On March 17, 2015, Winter Park Express officials took a test run to gauge interest and see if they could manage the logistics of sharing the track with coal trains over the 56mile route. Among the trip’s passengers was Swartzwelter’s father, who was fortunate to experience the fulfillment of his son’s dream just before he died.

The logistics worked out and the everpopular Winter Park Express was back on track.

It’s scheduled to run again in the 20192020 season with plans for expanded food and beverage services.

Should you choose to take the day-long journey, you might get a glimpse of that childlike grin and hear a tale or two about the state’s storied past.

Lisa McIntyre is a recent graduate of Metropolitan State University of Denver with a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Social Documentary. She seeks to illuminate the human experience through oral, written and photographic storytelling.

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ThirstColorado.com 27

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING BREWING A new addition to the dining scene, Former Saint Craft Kitchen and Taps tempts with an adventuresome Colorado-inspired menu.

Perfectly complemented with local craft beers and cocktails.

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Mention this ad and receive a free appetizer with the purchase of two dinner entrees.

Offer valid through 6/30/20.

Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center 650 15th Street, Denver, CO • 303 486 4434

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November-December 2019

STRANGE ANTHEMS

Strange Americans play music for average Americans

By Steve Graham

T

hey may call themselves Strange Americans, but this Denver band plays music for decidedly average, working-class Americans. They are known for anthemic rock songs played at long and energetic live shows.

“It’s blue-collar rock and roll that most people can relate to,” said singer Matt Hoffman.

It’s probably no accident it all sounds a little Springsteen-esque. Hoffman’s everyman rasp sounds a little like Bruce, and the first Strange Americans album cover even looks kind of like a cross between the covers for “Magic” and “Devils & Dust,” a pair of Springsteen albums released about a decade before the Strange Americans debut.

While they haven’t been around quite as long as The Boss, they have outlasted many other local bar bands. Strange Americans

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November-December 2019

celebrated their 10th anniversary as a band this fall.

Their first show was in September 2009 at the Bulldog Bar on East Colfax. They have since spent a lot of time playing beloved live shows together. And when two core members were asked if they expect to play together for another decade, they quickly and succinctly just said “yeah.”

“We all live and breathe music, and we try to get that percentage of our lives to overlap as much as we can,” said Hoffman.

Surprisingly for a band so closely identified with guitars and roots rock, Strange Americans started on a synthesizer. Hoffman has been in bands since middle school, like the other members of Strange Americans, and studied music theory and composition in college.

By early 2009, he was writing new songs

on a synth and itching to get back into a band.

So he posted a Craigslist ad looking for a guitarist. Trent Nelson responded, which got the Strange Americans ball rolling.

“When I met Trent, it kind of clicked and it started there,” Hoffman said.

Nelson brought in his friend Murry Mercier on keyboards, and they found bassist Trevor Sinnard and drummer Michael John McKee through more Craigslist ads.

Hoffman said his original compositions were “more pop-rock,” but the band evolved into a rootsy Americana soundscape.

“There are elements of roots rock and classic rock, with some curveballs here and there sonically,” Nelson said, adding that his songwriting is inspired by creative genrebusting bands such as Wilco, My Morning Jacket and Radiohead.

Other alt-country influences such as

“We were attempting to name our band and we watched ‘Jeremiah Johnson’ and drank a bunch of whiskey and decided we would find out what our band name is.”

- Matt Hoffman process “starts with us bouncing ideas off each other” through voice memos and a Dropbox folder. Then Hoffman and Nelson try to get together on Fridays to talk about music, play music and turn those ideas into basic songs, which are fleshed out and finalized with the full band — especially on stage.

“We’ve always been a live band,” Hoffman said. “We like to get into the music and be energetic with our performance.”

They have seen their audiences gradually grow over the decade, and they are moving up into the festival circuit.

“We put it all out there when we play.

We try to show up and do our best job,” Nelson said.

Learn more about the band and upcoming gigs at strangeamericansmusic.com.

Photos courtesy of Strange Americans

Steve Graham is a freelance writer and former newspaper editor who likes taking his two young boys biking, hiking and brewery-hopping in northern Colorado.

Centro-Matic, Slobberbone and even early Lucero are more evident on the band’s three studio albums.

Hoffman blames another piece of Americana for the band name.

“We were attempting to name our band and we watched ‘Jeremiah Johnson’ and drank a bunch of whiskey and decided we would find out what our band name is,” he said.

After a long night of bourbon and a Robert Redford western, they decided on a temporary name from their long list of candidates.

“We said ‘we will call ourselves the Strange Americans for now,’ and it just stuck,” he said, laughing. “It was that or The Bearded Trees.”

Hoffman writes most of the songs with Nelson, who said the November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 31

MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR NOV 16 Grand Junction

Expect to see adventure packed documentary films that are sure to inspire. Pre-show live music and a silent auction are planned as well. ticketmaster.com

SWITCH ON THE HOLIDAYS NOV 24 Boulder

Get ready for the holiday season as downtown is illuminated in this community event. Santa Claus will lead the countdown to the light display. boulderdowntown.com

YMCA TURKEY TROT 5K NOV 28 Colorado Springs

Photo: Left Hand Brewing Foundation

NITRO FEST NOV 9 LONGMONT

Get transported into an out-of-this-world evening of fun with special brews and music. Be a

NOVEMBER

ALL ABILITIES CARNIVAL AND 5K NOV 2 Colorado Springs

This carnival is open to all ages and abilities and includes games, prizes, food trucks and more.

The carnival partnered with Colorado Springs Early Colleges to provide this fun, family-friendly event and 3.1-mile run. autismvisionco.org

WHISKEY & WHISKERS NOV 7 Golden

Come have a drink and food at the Foothills Animal Shelter and maybe adopt a new pet while you’re at it. There will be local distilleries, food trucks, live music by the TAARKA duo and sneak peeks of some of the cutest adoptable pets. All proceeds from this fundraiser will go to help the animals in need at Foothills Animal Shelter. foothillsanimalshelter.org

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CON NOV 9 Denver

Enjoy comics, games, anime and more during this convention that will benefit the victims of the Aurora Theater shooting. rockymountaincon.com

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part of the only festival where all the beers are nitrogenated. Cosmic formal masquerade attire is highly recommended.

Ihbfoundation.org/nitro-fest

COLORADO SPRINGS RECORD SHOW NOV 10 Colorado Springs

Are you ready to face the music? There will be multiple vendors selling new and used vinyl. Be sure to look for the dollar bins that might have those hidden gems you’ve been searching for. facebook.com/coloradospringsrecordshow

THE DENVER PANCAKES & BOOZE ART SHOW NOV 14 Denver

Come join one of the largest pop-up underground art events to hit North America. Experience local artists while enjoying free pancakes, which gives this art show a sizzling twist. pancakesandbooze.com

STRATER HOTEL MURDER MYSTERY NOV 15 Durango

Bring your friends and family along for a one-of-akind weekend of mischief and mystery. Be a part of an unforgettable journey in one of the state’s historic gems. murdermystery.com/weekends

Everyone is invited to make their steps meaningful, even your furry friends. All proceeds will help the YMCA provide scholarships to families. runsignup.com

THE STRING CHEESE INCIDENT NOV 29-30 Denver

This band is expected to be in rare form when they hit the Mission Ballroom during the Thanksgiving weekend. stringcheeseincident.com

PARADE OF LIGHTS NOV 30-DEC 1 DENVER

This parade is sure to bring light into your night. The spectacular evening includes two miles of floats,

THE NUTCRACKER NOV 29-DEC 2 Boulder

Don’t miss your chance to see the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra team up with Boulder Ballet to present the timely classic at Macky Auditorium. boulderphil.org

DECEMBER

WARREN MILLER’S ‘TIMELESS’ DEC 4-5 Aspen

Kickoff the season with the latest ski movie that follows new and veteran athletes through renowned mountain locations. warrenmiller.com

NO MAN’S LAND FILM FESTIVAL DEC 5 Colorado Springs

The festival features an all-female group that travels while filming their adventures in the outdoors. Join them as they share their passion for nature. nomanslandfilmfestival.org

Photo courtesy of DCPA

JIMMY BUFFETT’S ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE DEC 23-JAN 5 DENVER

Immerse yourself in a heartwarming and hilarious

marching bands and an appearance by Major Waddles the penguin, as well as Jolly Old Saint Nick.

downtowndenver.com/9news-parade-of-lights

MADRIGAL BANQUET DEC 5-22 Colorado Springs

Do you love dinner and a theatrical show? With 30 years of history, this banquet is becoming a Colorado classic. Get your tickets and be a part of this 16th-century-style evening at the Glen Eyrie Castle. gleneyrie.org

WINTER WONDERLAND HOLIDAY MARKET DEC 7 Colorado Springs

Bring the family for a European-style outdoor shopping experience. Support local small businesses that provide unusual gifts, including woodwork, pottery, baked goods, body care, glass-working and more. visitcos.com

VAIL SNOW DAYS DEC 12-15 Vail

The four-day festival includes free concerts, lively expos and nightly parties. Ring in the last days of 2019 with a bang. vail.com

Photo: Downtown Denver

- Compiled by Katie Lee

musical that features songs written by one of music’s greatest storytellers. It will be like eating a little slice of paradise.

denvercenter.org

12 BARS OF CHARITY DEC 14 Denver

This night of bar hopping will benefit your favorite charity. Participants will receive a t-shirt.

12barsofcharity.com

A VERY ELECTRIC HOLIDAY WITH LIGHTWIRE THEATER DEC 21 Steamboat Springs

The talented group originally placed in the semifinals on America’s Got Talent and now bring their act on the road. The holiday show combines puppetry, music and theater. lightwiretheater.com

JANUARY

BIG BEERS, BELGIANS & BARLEYWINES FESTIVAL JAN 9-11 Breckenridge

What does your ideal post-New Year getaway look like? If it includes crazy beers, exclusive seminars and activities with innovative brewers in the Rocky Mountains, this event is for you. bigbeersfestival.com

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ThirstColorado.com 33

YOUR JOLT

Photos courtesy of Ozo Coffee

GE T

! ! ! ! !

N O

8 standout coffee shops to keep you buzzing all over the Front Range

By Natasha Lovato

Photo courtesy of The Stone Cup

S

enses explode. Immediately, you’re hit with the scent of brewing beans and the acoustic serenade of steaming milk and casual conversations.

You’re enticed through the doors as if led by the Pied Piper himself. No matter where you find yourself along the Front Range, there surely sits a coffee shop with the sight, smell, sounds and tastes your senses crave. We’ve compiled a list to get you started.

Ozo Coffee - Boulder

Ozo can create almost any coffee concoction you can imagine, from a flavored latte to a single-origin pour-over. Wholesale director Alexandra LittleJohn highlights the importance of partnerships with other Colorado companies such as Sherpa Chai, Copper Mountain, Eldora and Sweet Cow Ice Creamery. Visit the Ozo location in Boulder, take the roasts home to enjoy, or use the new instant coffee line for an après coffee buzz on any adventure. ozocoffee.com

Speedtrap Bistro - Palmer Lake

Enjoy French-inspired cuisine alongside coffee, beer, wine cocktails and live music at the Speedtrap Bistro. Speedtrap owner Spencer Boyles takes pride in his restaurant’s from-scratch menu.

“I’d say our fresh-made baked goods are one of our specialties,” Boyles said. As far as coffee goes, Boyles recommends the old-fashioned caramel latte or, his personal favorite, a dirty chai with a little bit of raspberry. speedtrapbistro.com Photos courtesy of Speedtrap Bistro

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Photos courtesy of Dirt Coffee Bar

Pablo’s Coffee - Denver

Dirt Coffee Bar - Littleton

Dirt Coffee Bar is a non-profit coffee shop in downtown Littleton with a mission to train and employ individuals with autism. Dirt’s passion alters the stigma for how people view those on the autism spectrum in an open environment for all walks of life looking to enjoy good coffee.

“Beyond our mission, our most popular beverage is our iced lavender oat milk latte,” Dirt Founder and CEO Lauren Burgess said. Burgess also recommends the matcha latte with a pump of house-made hibiscus syrup. dirtcoffee.org

Novo Coffee - Denver

Photo: Neill Pieper

Novo Coffee is primarily a wholesale roaster in Denver focusing on sourcing high-quality coffee through relationships with farmers and producers around the world. Novo doesn’t just provide award-winning coffee, like the Nitro Cold Brew, but also offers an educational experience as well.

“At our roasting facility, we have a full training lab where our staff, wholesale accounts and public attendees can take classes on numerous topics of coffee knowledge and preparation,” Novo Retail Director Melissa Raef said. Any of the four Denver locations strive to serve quality products in the coffee supply chain, as well as local craft beer and wine. novocoffee.com

Pablo’s Coffee prioritizes sourcing the most ethically obtained coffees they can find.

“Massive factory farms producing commodity-grade coffee simply cannot enter into the equation,” the folks at Pablo’s said. Many of their coffees carry Rainforest Alliance, Smithsonian Bird Friendly or Socially Conscious certifications and are sourced from single-family farm cooperatives that are part of a legal association.

Pablo’s also focuses on the local community with event sponsorships for hundreds of groups over the last two decades including music festivals, silent auctions, medical research and homeless shelters. Pablo’s yearns for transparency in the goodness of coffee and the goodness of giving that back to the community. pabloscoffee.org

Pangea Coffee Roasters - Golden

The Pangea Coffee Roasters history starts with a love story. Matt Kurgan and Amanda Krenn met in the coffee industry and decided to take things to the next level — starting their own coffee business.

What started as a small farmers market coffee truck transformed into an official establishment providing worldly coffee or tea selections, specialty drinks and even a few stories.

“I always order their Cafe au Lait,” customer Jacob Morris said. “I actually had a dream one night I worked there.

It was a realistic dream I guess because my girlfriend woke me up. Only I wasn’t in bed, I was in the kitchen. I was sleep walking trying to brew Café au Lait.” pangeacoffeeroasters.com

Loyal Coffee - Colorado Springs

Rather than focusing on the light or dark coffee beans when they roast, Loyal Coffee takes an approach that focuses on developing the sugars in the beans, giving customers a specialty coffee enjoyable for novice coffee drinkers and connoisseurs alike. Tyler Hill, Loyal Coffee director of guest experience, recommends guests try the Loyal version of their favorite drink.

“People experience coffee in so many different ways,” Hill said. The baristas want you to enjoy your favorite drinks, with the Loyal coffee-roasted twist. loyalcoffee.co November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 35

The Stone Cup - Lyons

Owners Mindy and Sam Tallent run their coffee shop with a focus on environmental impact. You can enjoy organic and free trade coffee, tea and espresso along with fresh baked goods, grab-and-go’s and smoothies knowing your landfill waste level will be at zero. The Stone Cup to-go containers are fully compostable, with cups, straws, lids, forks, spoons and knives made from a corn-based synthetic plastic, and plates made from sugar cane.

“We worked with a local environmental consultant and found some pretty cool ways to reduce our impact on the environment,” Mindy said. “We offset our energy use with renewable, non-polluting wind energy. We have a comprehensive recycling and composting program. From eggshells to cups and plates, we keep as much as we can out of the landfills.” thestonecup.com Native Natasha Lovato celebrates the Colorado lifestyle through hiking, biking or playing bingo while enjoying a sour ale or two.

Photo courtesy of The Stone Cup

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November-December 2019

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UKEG NITRO COLD BREW COFFEE MAKER $199 (before the discount)

GROWLERWERKS.COM The uKeg by GrowlerWerks will be serving fresh, delicious beverages this holiday season. From the new uKeg Nitro to the original uKeg carbonated growler for beer and cocktails, there’s something for craft lovers of all stripes. Guaranteed to be the freshest gift on wishlists this holiday. Use promo code THIRST20 for $20 off your order of $100 or more @ growlerwerks.com.

SPORTUBE HEATED BAG $249.95

SPORTUBE.COM Say goodbye to cold toes and stiff boots.

Sportube heated boot bag takes the chill off your boots and gear before you leave in the morning and the 12v adapter lets you keep them warm on the drive to the mountain. Warm boots are easy to put on and will keep you toasty throughout for a few runs longer!

HYDRATE IV BAR Price varies

HYDRATEIVBAR.COM Hydrate IV Bar is a place for you to relax, recharge and refresh your routine! Try IV nutrient therapy with our professional nurses in a restorative, spa-like atmosphere. A gift card to Hydrate IV Bar gives you an afternoon to enjoy comfortable leather chairs, soothing music and a menu of services for illness, wellness, recovery, and beauty. Learn more at hydrateivbar.com.

WILDSYDE BIKE $1,995.95

WILDSYDE.COM The coolest of cool electric cruiser bikes. Ditch the car and turn heads while turning the pedals.

Powered by a 500w, 36v, 13ah motor and battery to get you going and powerful hydraulic brakes to slow you down, the Wildsyde Beast is the perfect bar bike. Take a ride on the Wildsyde!

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d i O u H ft G Gi

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HOMEMAGNETICS.COM Magnetic pins mark the 14,000 foot peaks you have conquered. We creatively and artistically list all 54 14k peaks in Colorado and let you visually represent your accomplishments by placing a magnetic pin on each of the hikes you have conquered. Decorative frame is constructed of Colorado blue pine (forested beetle kill pine).

COLORADO MAGNET $49.00

HOMEMAGNETICS.COM Magnetic pins mark the Colorado breweries you have conquered. We creatively and artistically list 302 of Colorado’s best craft breweries. Our list is recently updated and includes almost all current Colorado craft breweries.

Art was created exclusively by Home Magnetics. We alphabetically list Colorado’s best craft breweries.

Y BE READY FOR THE PARTY WITH OUR GRAB & GO WINE SELECTIONS! $25 for 2 pre-selected wines 1 red and 1 white OR $50 for 2 pre-selected wines 1 red and 1 white

SUPERIORLIQUOR.COM Pre-selected wines are food friendly, conversation ready and really delightful any way you choose to imbibe!

Grab & Go wine packs are available now until Dec. 31, 2019.

WEAR YOUR BEER WITHOUT WEARING YOUR BEER Price varies

SUPERIORLIQUOR.COM Not sure what to get that Craft Beer loving person in your life? Shop our selection of hats, shirts, hoodies and other craft beer memorabilia. Let them wear the beers they love to drink, without smelling like the beers they love to drink.

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 39

Special Holiday Advertising Section

KEG CAP™ ACCESSORY KIT $44.95

DRINKTANKS.COM Order the optional Keg Cap™ and turn your DrinkTanks Growler into a personal keg. This growler keg tap is designed specifically for DrinkTanks growlers and will keep your beer fresh to the last drop. The Keg Cap Kit comes with a cap, CO2 injector, and two threaded 16 gram CO2 cartridges. This interchangeable cap can be used on our Classic 64 oz Growler and our Juggernaut 128 oz Growler. Your mini keg will provide you with an effortless pour everywhere, every time.

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Our shirts are designed and hand printed right in our flagship store in Fort Collins. We aim to inspire those around us to live an active lifestyle and to “find their wings” because after all, life’s too short to settle for the ordinary. Citra Hop Performance Socks - $16.95. Blend of merino wool & polypropylene, Made in USA. Beer Makes Me Hoppy T-shirt.

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GRIZZLYCOOLERS.COM With its easy-zip flip-top lid, your Drifter 20 is ready for wherever you may roam. Make it your go-to cooler for boating, off-roading, or just kicking back. With its multiple pockets, soft shoulder strap and carrying handle, the Drifter 20 has you covered for everything you need to pack inside. The removable waterproof liner and EVA foam insulation locks in the cold, so you can relax and enjoy your lifestyle.

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November-December 2019

DRIFTER 12+ $99.99

GRIZZLYCOOLERS.COM Designed for the One Plus One type of adventures. The Grizzly Drifter 12+ is the quintessential quick day trip cooler.

Designed with our Drifter Series easy-zip flip-top lid and two Grip Cup Pockets on each side, you have room for a full days worth. Fully waterproof lined and EVA Foam for ultimate cold insulation locking in your goods as if they were in a freezer. Enjoy it by yourself for the day, but remember there is room for your +1.

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ART OF BREWING

EDDYLINE TAPS GOLDEN ARTIST FOR ADVENTURE ON A CAN

By Kyle Kirves

! !

A

sk folks who spend much of their life on the water, and they’ll tell you the eddy line is the place where the slower, easier flow merges with the faster and deeper current. It’s the cusp or threshold where the calm water fades and challenges emerge. Where the risks become greater and the rewards sweeter. The term is also an apt choice for the namesake of Buena Vista’s premier creator of craft beer, Eddyline Brewery.

“We make beer for any adventure,” says Brian England, one of the original founders and now sole proprietor of Eddyline, quoting the brewery tagline. A solid enough marketing plan from a brewery headquartered in one of Colorado’s premier playgrounds, catering to bikers, skiers, hikers, kayakers, whitewater rafters, climbers -- you know, adventurers.

The unofficial motto, though, might be “Beers that go big.”

“Talls,” England says, citing the common parlance for 16-ounce cans, “are all we do. And as near as I can tell, and what our research suggests to us, is that we were the

42 ThirstColorado.com

November-December 2019

first craft brewer to do so in the state. We beat out some others by a couple of weeks.”

Bigness makes Eddyline’s presence on the shelf consistently hard to ignore – a veritable wall of hand-and-a-half cans in splashy, dynamic wraps that are as epic as a Monarch ski run or a hold-on-tight trip down the Arkansas, all with adventure-centered images and motifs.

Jesse Crock, a Golden-based artist and the creative force behind the images that grace the cans, has a long history with Eddyline. Prior to becoming their primary artist, Crock was an exhibitor of large-format art on the walls at the brewery. It made him an easy choice when Eddyline was looking to refresh their branding. “It’s a great back-andforth collaboration coming up with the art for the beer,” Crock says.

One of the more recent creative conversations involved a collaboration beer with the Pink Boots Society, which supports women in the brewing industry.

“Brian came to me and said, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool to have a biker wearing pink boots on

the trails?’” Crock remembers. “That was the start and we took a few quick sketches over a beer and we went from there. I did a painting.

From there it just took off.” It’s a great image that stands equally for Eddyline’s outdoor ethos as well as the Pink Boots Society.

Eddyline’s branding uses all 64 crayons in the box, so to speak. The cyclist-centered flagship Crank Yanker IPA and its chain ring and hop theme glow light up the can sleeve.

Epic Day Double IPA’s perspective on peak

!

!

! !

!

climbers and kayakers in burgundy and Colorado-sky blue is a snapshot of the mural that graces Eddyline’s brewery wall. And the hues of the Raspberry American Wheat’s mountain meadow and river scene are vibrant and inviting.

Although Eddyline isn’t shy about experimenting with different recipes such as the raspberry wheat, they remain known primarily for their variations on the pale ale theme. It’s something England doesn’t shy away from.

“In 2009, we were trying to figure out our identity, and the clientele helped,” England says laughing. “When every single mountain biker and white water rider who walks through your door is ordering an IPA, that is a strong indicator of which direction you should be going. Sales were really driving that demand for us.”

England cites the prevailing scuttlebutt in the industry – how hop-forward beers are old news, that fruited IPAs are passé – as something his brewery takes joy in disproving.

“Because we brew at altitude and we have a lower boiling point, the hop flavor in our beers is a little more subtle,” he says. “They shine through in a more floral, less bitter, more restrained way than some of the hop bombs out there. My belief – and we hear this often – is that we have the most approachable and drinkable IPAs on the market.”

Still, when you’re brewing beers for every adventure, you have to take chances.

England mentions new offerings coming online every season, including single-malt/ single-hop creations, kettle sours and efforts to expand their established Trail Builder series. Collaborations with other local brewers are also in the works.

Eddyline wants to be known as a true high-country craft beer maker, not just a brewery who wraps mountain imagery around their cans. “We’re authentic. We are the

mountain brewery,” England says with more than just a hint of pride. “When you escape to the mountains, we’re here. You want to come play and find great beers when you get here?

That’s us. We make beer,” he repeats, “for any adventure.”

So, with apologies to John Muir, the mountains – and the beer – are calling and you should go. Eddyline will be waiting for you when you get there – going as big as you do.

Kyle Kirves drinks beer, plays guitar, runs trails, and manages projects – all with varying degrees of success. While not a craftsman himself, he is quite content writing about the Colorado artisans who create such wonderful things and memorable experiences

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 43

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November-December 2019

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ThirstColorado.com 45

NEW AND IMPROVED IS PART OF THE PLAN AT COLORADO CRAFT

By Dionne Roberts

C

olorado Craft Tejon Street Social in downtown Colorado Springs delivers an ardent commitment to local sourcing in a casual and modern setting.

Since opening in January 2018, coowner and executive chef Mario Vasquez has been adapting and fine tuning his thoughtful cuisine to encourage a community that values sustainability.

“In my mind we’re trying to bring the best of what’s around us but it has had to evolve a lot,” says Vasquez. “We want to bring everyone into one building and serve some really nice ingredients that are locally driven but very approachable.”

The menu at Colorado Craft includes an array of social sharables with stacked nachos, some of the best wings in town and mac and

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November-December 2019

cheese variations that include Vasquez’s prestigious pork green chili. Lunch centers around soups, colorful salads, sandwiches and cheeseburgers before transitioning into a greater focus on entrees during dinner service.

“I’ve been trying to create really fun sandwiches and salads that I can execute fast, but I still try to put a little twist on my dishes,” says Vasquez. “For our Nashville hot chicken sandwich, we try to grind our own peppers and make our own spice blend so it’s native to Colorado and born here.”

Vasquez says he hopes to “define what we do in our region,” and consciously uses nearby farms and ranches whenever possible, sourcing mixed greens from One Town Farms in Larkspur, and proteins from Corner Post

Meats in Black Forest and Sangres Best Beef in Westcliffe.

“We’re trying to promote as much local stuff as we can but I want to give it to people in an interesting way,” says Vasquez. “Our approach to food is about being patient and establishing as many relationships as we can so that everyone starts using more local purveyors in their restaurants.”

Vasquez’s “farm to table” feelings are genuine, coming off a prior stint on Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch in St. Helena, California. While there, he was able to “learn a lot about organic, and raising cattle the proper way.” On a very practical level, he understands that without local farmers and ranchers he wouldn’t be able to find quality ingredients to present to his patrons.

Mario Vasquez values sustainability at his Colorado Springs restaurant.

Photos courtesy of Colorado Craft

“We don’t connect with our food anymore, we think it just shows up,” says Vasquez.

“These are actual people that do this every day to give you their beef and their produce at the peak of the season. Without them we don’t have food, that’s why I’m so adamant. If there’s no food for me to cook, I don’t have a job so it’s really important for us to be knowledgeable about where it comes from.”

His signature items continue to integrate local ingredients, including an Asian short rib braised with a Stone Age Stout from Fossil Craft Beer Company; a pork bolognese with house-made gnocchi that Vasquez debuted at a recent A Grazing Life farm dinner; and a Corner Post lamb burger topped with rosemary-tomato jam, an olive tapenade, feta and arugula, served on a Kaiser roll.

“My goal was to create a couple dishes that will be staples, and these represent what we’re doing really well,” says Vasquez. “I’m trying not to add so many components, just showcase the ingredients at their best.”

Beyond the plates, Colorado Craft also prides itself on its solid selection of allColorado beer, with 30 cans and 20 taps derived primarily from Colorado Springs. The brews are also beginning to find their way into the craft cocktail program, with consulting courtesy of Dylan Currier, owner of The Archives, a watering hole directly below the restaurant that features classic libations.

“We’re trying to go a little bit more beer-driven as it is a big feature for us,” says Vasquez. “Cheeseburgers and craft beer are our thing now.”

Although it may seem as if the menu reflects typical, relaxed American offerings, rest assured there is nothing basic about Colorado Craft. Vasquez’s background in fine dining lends itself to an overall ambiance that’s comfortable but with “a little flair here and there” that feeds directly, and quite distinctly, into some exclusively Front Range kind of fare.

“I really hope that they are experiencing friendly faces, knowledgeable people telling stories in our restaurant,” says Vasquez of his patrons. “That’s where our passion is. When they eat and drink with us, they leave with a little bit of Colorado.”

Dionne Roberts is the editor of the Rocky Mountain Food Report, rockymountainfoodreport.com

November-December 2019

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Prime Pairings Pork Belly BBQ Hand Pie The Thirsty Monk Pork Belly BBQ Hand Pie is the perfect partner for a Monk Shake IPA. This hand pie is easy to eat and easy to make. Blackberries add a fruitiness and tart notes to an otherwise sweet BBQ sauce. Pickled onions lend balance to the pork belly.

Ingredients Roasted Pork Belly

Blackberry BBQ Sauce

2 lb skin-off pork belly

½ cup minced yellow onion

1 pinch salt and pepper

½ minced garlic clove

1 cup water Pickled Red Onions

½ fresh seeded and minced jalapeño

2 medium julienned red onions

¼ cup cider vinegar

½ tsp minced garlic

3 tbsp molasses

½ tsp salt

¼ cup blackberries

1 pinch white pepper

2 tsp whole grain mustard

/3 cup sugar

½ cup ketchup

/3 cup red wine vinegar

3 tbsp brown sugar

/3 cup water

2 tsp salt

1 1 1

2 tsp olive oil

Directions Roasted Pork Belly

Pair with Monk Shake IPA Thirsty Monk takes on the popular milkshake IPA and puts a slight spin on it. Norwegian Kveik yeast adds flavors of creamy apricot, guava and peach, while large amounts of hops and lactose sugar impart the juicy milkshake flavors you’ve come to expect from the style. This American IPA weighs in at 6.7 percent ABV.

Season the pork belly on all sides with salt and pepper. Lay the fat side down and roast covered at 400 degrees for two hours.

Add water and roast another hour covered. Allow the meat to cool, dice it into 1/2-inch pieces and set it aside.

Handpie Dough

Pickled Red Onions

Bringing Ingredients Together

Combine all the ingredients and simmer for 20 minutes. Then allow it to then cool.

Combine the sauce, pickled onion and diced pork belly. Roll out three to four ounces of pizza dough to one-eighth of an inch.

Add about one-half cup of filling to the center of the dough.

Brush the top half of the dough with the slurry and fold to make a half moon shape. Bake at 400° for 12 to 15 minutes until the dough has a golden-brown color and filling is hot.

Blackberry BBQ Sauce Briefly sauté the onion, garlic and jalapeños in olive oil. Add remaining ingredients and let simmer while stirring often for 20 minutes. Allow the sauce to cool and then mix with a blender or food processor. Strain the sauce through a sieve discarding the solids.

Sealing Slurry Combine two tablespoons of flour, three tablespoons of water and mix thoroughly.

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November-December 2019

Any raw, store-bought pizza dough will work.

Chef Clint Betts has been in the culinary field for over 30 years.

Gifted with the passion for pairing food with beer, wine and spirits he has worked with breweries and wineries alike, elevating already great beverages to new heights with his simple but delicious food pairings.

Italian Sausage Calzone My love of cooking with dough has grown significantly during the past few years. It started with dumplings and pot stickers and has since turned to Italian cuisine: pizza, pasta and now, calzones. Working with dough is therapeutic but requires a considerable amount of technique and patience. You might find this dish a bit difficult at first but that is what home cooking is for, to challenge and excite.

Ingredients Dough 3 ½ cups flour 1 packet yeast 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 ½ cups hot water Filling 6 vine ripe tomatoes 1 onion diced 6 cloves garlic diced 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 6 oz mozzarella grated 6 oz Colby Jack grated 1 lb ground Italian sausage 5 slices bacon cut into large chunks 4 tbsp melted butter

Pair with Elevation Pilsner Elevation Brewing’s pilsner is a delicious beverage to wash down a savory calzone. This pils has just the right amount of hop character and floral aroma to be flavorful, yet just dry and crisp enough to cleanse the palate before your next bite. Better yet, at a modest 5% ABV, you won’t feel too guilty for enjoying a second one with your meal.

Maldon sea salt Italian seasoning

Directions Begin with the dough. In a large mixing bowl, add all the dry ingredients and mix. Next, mix in the wet ingredients. Now it’s time get down and dirty. With clean hands, knead the dough until it is a consistent mass. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Heat two skillets to medium heat. In the first, pour in a tablespoon of cooking oil and add the diced onions. Cook for a few minutes and add the garlic. Cook a few more minutes and then add the tomatoes and allow them to meld and breakdown. Once the tomato juice has evaporated and the pan looks like it is beginning to dry out, mix in the red wine vinegar and turn off the heat. In the other skillet, toss in the sausage and bacon, stirring occasionally while both cook. Combine the contents of the two skillets.

Recipe by Will Coonradt

Separate the dough into four equal parts. Cover a flat surface (large cutting board or countertop) with a thin layer of flour and work the pieces of dough into roughly 10-inch circles on top of the flour. Place one quarter of the filling on half of the circle of dough, leaving a half inch of space along the outside. Combine the cheese and add small amounts to the top of the filling. Grab the filling-free side of the calzone and fold it over the filled side.

Using a fork or your fingers, crimp or roll the edges together, sealing the filling and cheese inside. Repeat these steps for all four calzones.

Place each on an oiled baking sheet, brush the melted butter over the top and make three cuts across the top of each calzone. Sprinkle salt and Italian seasoning across the tops. Bake for 10-15 minutes. The crust should be crispy soft and have a few spots that are beginning to brown. When they are done, brush the top with butter and finish with Maldon sea salt.

November-December 2019

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STRANGE BREW

TASTEBUD-TINGLING DAMASCUS GOSE TAPPED From Intrepid Sojourner to Next Stop Brewing, international flavors are still targeted

By Steve Graham

E

very trip to Intrepid Sojourner Brewing Co. is an educational experience, and not just a vocabulary lesson with the five-dollar words found in the brewery name.

For example, you can enjoy a gose while picking up some botany and geography facts.

Andrew Moore, head of brewery operations, recently tapped his first gose with a tastebud-tingling mix of plums, spearmint, rosemary, anise, coriander, Hawaiian red gold sea salt, alderwoodsmoked sea salt and lavender.

“We’re interested in creating culinary beers that have unique and interesting flavors,” Moore said.

He said he wanted to make a winterstyle gose to upend the light, summery stereotype of the German style. To that end, he wanted to evoke the flavor of smoked plums without actually smoking the plums, so he added smoked salt, as well as the Hawaiian salt.

He also wanted something herbal to pair with the smoked plum flavor.

“A lot of our recipes start in the culinary world, and one plant that kept coming up in our research was hyssop,” he said.

The aromatic shrub is used in cooking and herbal medicine, but even his well-sourced connections at the Savory Spice Company couldn’t get him hyssop in brewing quantities, so they came up with a blend of spearmint, anise and lavender to mimic the hyssop essence.

He sours the beer with acidulated malt, then leaves it twice as long in the mash stage.

“It’s not nearly as tart as some of the beers, it has a nice subtle acidity,” Moore said.

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November-December 2019

He also included plums in several steps.

“We add the fruit in at different points in time,” Moore said. “Layering the fruit in different points in the process gives it a deeper, more complex flavor.”

The gose is called the Damascus, after the damascene plum variety in the beer.

Most Intrepid Sojourner beers have a specific geographic tie, and the taproom is full of travel books and travelers, even if only in their minds.

But plan to visit soon. The Damascus gose could be one of the last beers brewed for the taproom and sold under the Intrepid Sojourner name.

The brewery plans to sell its brewing equipment and change its name to Next Stop

Brewing. The owners will no longer lease the space at 925 W. 8th Ave., where they’ve brewed for two years. Once a buyer is found for the seven-barrel turnkey operation, they plan to focus on production and canning.

They recently emerged on liquor store shelves and on tap handles as Next Stop Brewing. The new branding kicked off with

cans of Next Stop Bangkok, a lemongrass and ginger kolsch. Moore tentatively plans to follow up with the ever-popular Istanbul coffee stout.

Moore said the new name is simpler and more memorable than Intrepid Sojourner, but still conveys the creative and international idea behind his brewery.

“We could create a package at Next Stop that would get all that across more efficiently,” Moore said.

The brewery opened in May 2017, and Moore said the goal was always to spread the Intrepid beers far beyond the 8th Avenue taproom in Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe. “We always wanted to distribute, that was always our goal,” he said. “It slowly became apparent that it was taking too many resources to get the taproom where it needed to be.”

He said the focus will be on production for a while, but he hopes to open a Next Stop taproom.

“We will be doing events, we will be out there in the community,” Moore said. “The goal is to get back to the place where we can be doing both.”

He said he appreciates the immediate feedback from customers in a taproom, but also looks forward to wider distribution.

“It gives us a chance to get feedback from a broader market,” Moore said.

“Colorado is wonderful but I feel like we tend to get some beer blinders on in Colorado.”

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TRUE TALES FROM THE LYING LOG

By Bufford T. Clapsaddle

I

t certainly was evident that our intruders were “thirsty” when they rode into our backcountry camp.

This salacious trio consisted of a timewarn gent with milk-white hair and full-on exquisite beard, escorting two overloaded pack horses.

His cohorts were 30-something dudes, with reins in one hand and a capless partial fifth of Jim Beam in the other. Each holstered a loaded revolver.

The senior citizen quickly expressed disgust that Clapsaddle’s contingent had “encroached” on a campsite that he previously enjoyed. He tied up at the edge of camp to adjust the weight on his two pack animals.

His two junior cowboys (most likely wannabees) manifested their interest in the three female members of our secluded (we thought) high altitude horseback staff retreat.

Their intoxication level in all probability was at least a full point above Colorado’s 1.8 RUI (riding under influence) threshold.

It required substantive coaxing, followed by authoritative threats from the bearded pathfinder, for them to exit our campsite.

Where was the Greeley State Trooper who was a member of Clapsaddle posses for a couple of previous pack-ins?

“You can bet they’ll be back,” opined an elder statesman in our pack party, as we prepared lunch.

During lunch, we formulated a counter scheme. Accompanied by his reading material, the most persuasive in the retreat assembly would locate a tree stump along the trail a quarter mile from camp. There he would intercept the boozed boys and attempt to induce them to return to their new campsite.

56 ThirstColorado.com

November-December 2019

Should they ignore the unwelcome, his practiced wolf howl would alert the gals to disappear into the black timber, and the camp fellows would insist they were picking choke cherries for the evening dinner (even though we were 2,500 feet in elevation above choke cherry altitude).

The mediation in plan A turned out to be a labor in vain, because choke cherry picking brought a no-&#!@ response from the inebriates.

“Their intoxication level in all probability was at least a full point above Colorado’s 1.8 RUI (riding under influence) level.”

Garbled voices kept proclaiming “The girls want us to take them to the Bullarama in Steamboat tonight.”

They waited. We sat tight!

A retreat member had another approach.

“I overheard one of the gals tell another this morning that she would like to go to the far side of the lake and sunbathe because she sought a full body tan.”

The dudes were on their mounts in seconds headed around the big lake, of

course in the opposite direction, following our counterfeit instructions.

The gals had just returned from the woods, and were greeted with approaching gunshots so they headed back to their sanctuary.

At full gallop the rowdies mutilated our campsite, knocking over tables, ravaging food panniers and coolers, all the while shouting “Bullarama, Bullarama, Bullarama,” interspersed with totally vulgar chants. One kept firing round after round in the air from his six-shooter. (The other was missing his weapon.) Not once did the shooter aim at anything but sky … nonetheless his atrocities would not have been accepted by any law enforcement people, nor the NRA for that matter. (And the other crapulent was sans his whiskey bottle, which perhaps plays a curtaindropping role in this drama.)

After about 20 minutes, the beyond obnoxious dipsomaniacs finally spurred their tired mounts out of camp. A short time later we heard loud, obscene voices emanating from the trail a short distance away.

More than curious, three of us went to check out the commotion.

On the ground in the middle of a small meadow was the stewed pair, fist fighting over the remnants of the second (or third or fourth or fifth) Jim Beam bottle. We could only speculate.

Neither of the soused combatants seemed to be able to land a fist with a hurtful blow, so one of us held their horses and the other two loaded the outlaws into the saddles.

We whacked the two equine on the rumps and sent them off in the correct direction, hoping the animals would return to be with the horses of the older fella.

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And there in the tall grass 15 feet away from the fisticuffs activity rested the skyshooter’s pistol. Randy picked it up and heaved it as far as he could into the small lake.

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P.S. We never heard from or saw the dueling duo for the next three days.

Bufford T. Clapsaddle (aka Wilbur Flachman) is a retired newspaper and magazine publisher who has guided hundreds of horse pack trips into the Rocky Mountains for family, friends and business associates during the past 45 years. (Logging more than 10,000 miles in the saddle). Majority of his tales are revealed only at timberline.

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BJ’s ● bjsrestaurants.com 303.440.5200 1690 28th St Boulder

Bootstrap Brewing ● ●

Boulder Beer ● ● boulderbeer.com 303.444.8448 2880 Wilderness Pl Boulder

BRU Handbuilt Ales ● Cellar-West Artisan Ales ● Crystal Springs Brewing Co Echo Brewing Co Endo Brewing Co Finkel & Garf Brewing Co Front Range Brewing Co ● ● Gravity Brewing ● ● Gunbarrel Brewing Co Industrial Revolution Brewing Co James Peak Brewery & Smokehouse ●

60 ThirstColorado.com

Westminster Brewing Co Wonderland Brewing Co ● ●

CAÑON CITY AREA Florence Brewing

Alternation Brewing Baere Brewing Co Banded Oak Brewing Co Black Project Spontaneous & Wild Ales Declaration Brewing Co ● ● Dos Luces Grandma’s House

World’s End Brewing Co

Lowdown Brewery + Kitchen ●

CASTLE ROCK AREA

Novel Strand Brewing Co

105 West Brewing Co ●

Platt Park Brewing Co ●

Burly Brewing ● ●

TRVE Brewing Co

The Elizabeth Brewing Co

CAPITOL HILL/E COLFAX/ PARK HILL

Iron Mule Brewery Rockyard Brewing Co ●

Alpine Dog Brewery

Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co ●

Cerebral Brewing ● ●

CENTENNIAL/LONE TREE/ HIGHLANDS RANCH

Counter Culture Brewery & Grille ●

3 Freaks Brewery ●

Long Table Brewhouse

Blue Spruce Brewing Co ● ●

Pints Pub ●

C.B. & Potts Highlands Ranch ●

Station 26 Brewing Co ●

CO-Brew Fiction Beer Co ●

Blue Tile Brewing bluetilebrewing.com 720.242.8384

1609 E 58th Ave Unit G Denver

J. Moe’s Brew Pub ●

SOUTHEAST DENVER Bull and Bush Brewery ● ●

Comrade Brewing ● comradebrewing.com 720.748.0700 7677 E Iliff Ave Denver

Copper Kettle Brewing Co ●

SOUTHWEST DENVER Black Sky Brewery ● ● Chain Reaction Brewing Co ● Crazy Mountain Brewing Co ● ● Next Stop Brew Co ● Renegade Brewing Co

WHEAT RIDGE/EDGEWATER/ LAKEWOOD Brewery Rickoli ● Colorado Plus Brew Pub ● ● Great Frontier Brewing Co Green Mountain Beer Co Joyride Brewing Co ●

NORTHWEST DENVER

Landlocked Ales

Amalgam Brewing

Old 121 Brewhouse

Bruz Beers ● bruzbeers.com 303.650.2337 1675 W 67th Ave Denver

Call to Arms Brewing Co ● De Steeg Brewing Diebolt Brewing Co ● ● The Empourium Brewing Co

Westfax Brewing Co

DURANGO AREA Animas Brewing Co ● Bottom Shelf Brewery ● Carver Brewing Co ● Chainless Brewing Dolores River Brewery ● ●

Factotum Brewhouse

J. Fargo’s Family Dining & Micro Brewery ●

FlyteCo Brewing

Main Street Brewery & Restaurant ●

Goldspot Brewing Co ● ●

Mancos Brewing Co ●

Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe + Brewery ●

Ska Brewing Co ● ● Steamworks Brewing Co ●

Grist Brewing Co ●

Hogshead Brewery ●

Halfpenny Brewing Co

Lady Justice Brewing

Lone Tree Brewing Co

Oasis Brewing Co

EAGLE COUNTY

Resolute Brewing Co

Prost Brewing Co ●

7 Hermits Brewing Co ●

Rock Bottom Park Meadows ●

November-December 2019

®

WildEdge Brewing Collective

Bonfire Brewing ●

TILLERY & CIDERY LINEUP Gore Range Brewery ●

Vail Brewing Co ● ● vailbrewinco.com 970.470.4351

41290 US Hwy 6 Unit B2-3 Eagle/Vail

ENGLEWOOD AREA

Boggy Draw Brewery boggydraw.com 720.940.0338 3535 S Platte River Dr, Unit L Englewood

Brewability on Broadway ● ● C.B. & Potts Denver Tech ● Dead Hippie Brewing Peak View Brewing Co

ESTES PARK

GLENWOOD SPRINGS/ CARBONDALE/ASPEN Aspen Brewing Co ● Capitol Creek Brewery ● Carbondale Beer Works ●

Blue Spruce Brewing Co

GOLDEN Barrels and Bottles Brewery ● Cannonball Creek Brewing Co ● Coda Brewing Coors Brewing Co Golden City Brewery ●

Holidaily Brewing Co Holidailybrewing.com 303.278.BEER 801 Brickyard Cir., Golden

Ohm Brewing

Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing ● Crooked Stave Brewing DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery ● Envy Brewing Equinox Brewing ● Funkwerks Gilded Goat Brewing Co Horse & Dragon Brewing Co Intersect Brewing Jessup Farm Barrel House ● The Marmot Fort Collins Mash Lab Brewing Maxline Brewing McClellan’s Brewing Co ● ● New Belgium Brewing Co ● ● Odell Brewing Co ● ● Old Colorado Brewing Co Pitchers Brewery ● Prost Brewing Co Purpose Brewing Rally King Brewing Ramskeller Brewery ● Red Truck Beer ● Snowbank Brewing Soul Squared Brewing Co Sparge Brewing Timnath Beerwerks Zwei Brewing Co ● ●

Over Yonder Brewing

GRAND JUNCTION AREA Dented Face Brewing Co Edgewater Brewery ● Kannah Creek Brewing Co ● Mad Russian Brewing Co

Suds Brothers Brewery ● ●

Three Barrel Brewing Co ●

WINTER PARK AREA Camber Brewing Co

PAONIA

Fraser River Beer Co

Chrysalis Barrel Aged Beer

Hideaway Park Brewery

Paonia United Brewing Co

Never Summer Brewing Co The Peak Bistro & Brewery ●

Breckenridge Brewery ● Coal Mine Ave. Brewing Co

Barnett and Son Brewing Co ● ●

DISTRIBUTION ONLY

Jackass Hill Brewery ●

Downhill Brewing Co ●

AC Golden Brewing Co

Lariat Lodge Brewing

Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

Acidulous Brewing Co

Living the Dream Brewing Co Locavore Beer Works

LONGMONT 300 Suns Brewing ● Bootstrap Brewing Collision Brewing ● Left Hand Brewing Co ●

Mirror Image Brewing ● ● mirrorimagebrewco.com 720.445.5969 5969 Iris Pkwy, Unit C Longmont

Welcome Home Brewing

Atom Brewing Co

PUEBLO AREA

Barrel Dog Brewing

Brues Alehouse Brewing Co ● ●

Beer by Design

Reservoir Brewing Co

Black Sheep Brewery

Shamrock Brewing ●

Centennial Beer Co

Walter Brewery & Taproom

SALIDA/BUENA VISTA/ CRESTONE/LEADVILLE

Ceria Brewing ceriabrewing.com Denver

hello@ceriabrewing.com

Crestone Brewing Co ● Eddyline Restaurant and Brewing Co ● Elevation Beer Co ●

Oskar Blues Brewing ●

Moonlight Pizza and Brewpub ●

Primitive Beer

Periodic Brewing

Pumphouse Brewery ●

Soulcraft Brewing

Shoes and Brews

Amalgam Brewing

Divebar Brewing Co Donovan Brewing Co Durango Brewing Co Gemini Beer Co Good River Beer Idylwilde Brewing

GUNNISON/CRESTED BUTTE

The Larimer Beer Co

Elk Ave Brewing Co ● ●

New Planet Beer

LOVELAND/BERTHOUD

High Alpine Brewing Co ●

Open Door Brewing Co

GREELEY AREA

5030 Local ●

Irwin Brewing Co

Rustica

Brix Taphouse and Brewery ● ●

Berthoud Brewing Co

Sixteen Twenty Three Brewing

Broken Plow Brewery ●

Big Beaver Brewing Co ●

SOUTHWEST COLORADO

Sleeping Giant Brewing

Big Thompson Brewery

Avalanche Brewing Co ●

Crabtree Brewing ● ●

Social Order Brewing

G5 Brew Pub ●

Buckhorn Brewers

Colorado Boy Brewery - Montrose, Ouray, Ridgeway ●

Green Earth Brewing

City Star Brewing ●

Golden Block Brewery ●

Syndicate Brewing Co

High Hops Brewery ● ●

Crow Hop Brewing

Horsefly Brewing Co ● ●

Uhl’s Brewing Co

Lonesome Buck Brewing Co

Drätz Brewing Co

Ouray Brewery ●

Mighty River Brewing Co

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse

Ourayle House Brewery

Rocky Mountain Taphouse ●

Loveland Aleworks

Red Mountain Brewing ●

WeldWerks Brewing Co

Rock Bottom ●

Smuggler’s Brewpub ●

Rock Coast Brewery

Telluride Brewing Co

Verboten Brewing Co

Two Rascals Brewing Co

Veteran Brothers Brewing Co ●

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

MONUMENT

Butcherknife Brewing Co

Arta Tequila - Englewood

Pikes Peak Brewing Co ● ●

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill ● Mountain Tap Brewery ●

Art of the Spirits Colorado Whiskey - Denver

NORTHEAST COLORADO

Storm Peak Brewing Co

Ballmar Peak Distillery - Lakewood

Parts & Labor Brewing Co

Yampa Valley Brewing Co

Bear Creek Distillery - Denver

Tumbleweed Brewing & Wine Co

SUMMIT COUNTY

NORTHGLENN/THORNTON

Angry James Brewing Co

Mother Tucker Brewery ● ●

The Baker’s Brewery ●

Periodic Brewing ●

Breckenridge Brewery & Pub ●

Satire Brewing Co ●

Broken Compass Brewing

PAGOSA SPRINGS/ DEL NORTE/ALAMOSA

HighSide Brewing ● ●

KREMMLING

The Colorado Farm Brewery

Grand Adventure Brewing Co

Pug Ryan’s Brewery ●

Pagosa Brewing Co ●

Palisade Brewing Co ● ● The Rockslide Restaurant and Brewery ●

Wiley Roots Brewing Co ●

IDAHO SPRINGS/EVERGREEN/ CENTRAL CITY/GEORGETOWN Dostal Alley Saloon & Gambling Emporium ● El Rancho Brewing Co ● Evergreen Taphouse & Brewery ● Guanella Pass Brewing Co Lariat Lodge Brewing Co ● ● Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub ●

Westbound & Down Brewing Co ● westboundanddown.com 720.502.3121 1617 Miner St. Idaho Springs

FRUITA Copper Club Brewing Co ●

Square Peg Brewerks

PARKER

Grossen Bart Brewery ● ●

Rock Cut Brewing Co

Black Bottle Brewery ●

Lake City Brewing

Roaring Fork Beer Co ●

New Terrain Brewing ● ●

BJ’s ●

LAKE CITY

Blind Faith Brewing

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co

Anheuser-Busch

Crafty Canary Brewery

Glenwood Canyon Brew Pub ●

Mountain Toad Brewing ●

FORT COLLINS AREA

WALSENBURG

San Luis Valley Brewing ●

LITTLETON AREA

Estes Park Brewery ●

South Park Brewing Co ●

Riff Raff Brewing ● ●

Dean & Co Brewing

Casey Brewing and Blending

Avant Garde Aleworks

FAIRPLAY

LA JUNTA

Wibby Brewing ● ●

Dillon Dam Brewery ● ● Outer Range Brewing Co ●

Swole Beer

DISTILLERIES DENVER/BOULDER 12 Point Distillery - Lafayette Altitude Spirits, Inc. - Boulder Anders’ Vodka - Parker Archetype Distillery - Denver

The Block Distilling Co - Denver Broken Arrow Spirits - Centennial Denver Distillery - Denver Deviant Spirits - Boulder Deviation Distilling - Denver Devil’s Head Distillery - Englewood Downslope Distilling - Englewood Elwood Distilling - Boulder The Family Jones Spirit House Denver ● Geek Spirits - Boulder

November-December 2019

ThirstColorado.com 61

Golden Moon Distillery - Golden

Blackhat Distillery - Colo. Springs

Plum Creek Cellars - Palisade

Gaijin 24886 Sake - Denver

FOUR CORNERS

Hogback Distillery - Wheat Ridge

Cockpit Craft Distillery - Colo.

Springs

Ptarmigan Vineyards - Grand Junction

Golden City Winery - Golden

Flying T Wine - Cortez

Ram’s Point Winery - Grand Junction

Golden Valley Winery - Denver

Four Leaves Winery - Durango

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade

InVINtions, A Creative Winery Greenwood Village

Fox Fire Farms - Ignacio

J & L Distilling Co - Boulder

Colorado Gold - Colorado Springs

Ironton Distillery - Denver Laws Whiskey House - Denver

Deerhammer Distilling Co - Buena Vista

Leopold Bros - Northeast Denver

Distillery 291 - Colo. Springs

Local Distilling - Golden

Lee Spirits - Colo. Springs

Mad Rabbit Distillery - Westminster Mile High Spirits - Lodo Mythology Distillery - Denver ● Rising Sun Distillery - Denver

Meridiem Spirits facebook.com\ meridiemspiritsco 720.998.7435 372 N Banner St Elizabeth

Rocker Spirits - Littleton

Reeder Mesa Vineyards - Whitewater St. Kathryn Cellars Winery & Gift Shop - Palisade

Kingman Estates Winery - Denver Ladrón Cellars - Englewood

Pleasant View Vineyards - Pleasant View

Summit Cellars - Palisade

Leap of Faith Winery - Wheat Ridge

Sutcliffe Vineyards - Cortez

Talon Winery - Palisade

Point Blank Winery - Centennial

Two Rivers Winery - Grand Junction

Purgatory Cellars Winery - Parker

Two Swedes Glögg - Grand Junction

Ryker’s Cellars - Denver

Varaison Vineyards and Winery Palisade

Silver Vines Winery - Arvada Spero Winery - Denver

Santa Fe Spirits - Littleton

Mystic Mountain Distillery - Larkspur

Ski Bum Rum Distillery - Golden

Sand Creek Distillery - Hugo

Whitewater Hill Vineyards - Grand Junction

Spirit Hound Distillers - Lyons

Sangre Distilleries - Westcliffe Spirits of the Rockies - Pueblo

CENTRAL WEST AREA

The Wine Barrel - Parker

State 38 Distilling - Golden

Vino Passarelli - Lakewood

Stranahan’s - South Denver Strongwater Spirits & Botanicals - Denver

Wood’s High Mountain Distillery - Salida

5680′ - Paonia Alfred Eames Cellars at Puesta del Sol Vineyards - Paonia

Water 2 Wine - Centennial

Talnua Distillery - Arvada Tighe Brothers Distillery - Denver

Tingala tingalaspirits.com info@tingalaspirts.com

WESTERN SLOPE

Azura Cellars - Paonia

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co - Vail

Black Bridge Winery - Paonia

39 North Spirits - Eagle

Leroux Creek Vineyards - Hotchkiss

808 Distillery - Eagle

Evening Grace Vineyards - Hotchkiss

The Infinite Monkey Theorem Denver

Waters Edge Winery - Centennial What We Love, The Winery - Boulder Wild Women Winery - Denver Wine & Whey - Denver

Mesa Winds Farm and Winery Hotchkiss

NORTHERN FRONT RANGE

Coal Creek Distillery - Crested Butte Durango Craft Spirits - Durango

Stone Cottage Cellars - Paonia

Bad Bitch Cellars - Eaton

Highlands Distillery - Grand Junction

DELTA & MONTROSE COUNTIES

Blue Mountain Vineyards - Berthoud

Chill Switch Wine - Cedaredge

Blue Skies Winery - Fort Collins

Cottonwood Cellars/The Olathe Winery - Olathe

BookCliff Vineyards - Boulder

KJ Wood Distillers - Ouray

NORTHERN COLORADO

Marble Distilling Co - Carbondale ●

Garrett Estates Cellars - Olathe

Anvil Distillery - Longmont

River Garden Winery - Fort Lupton

Montanya Distillers - Crested Butte

Jack Rabbit Hill - Hotchkiss

Big Fat Pastor - Loveland

Settembre Cellars - Boulder

Peach Street Distillers - Palisade

Mountain View Winery - Olathe

Black Canyon Distillery - Longmont

Snowy Peaks Winery - Estes Park

Peak Spirits - Hotchkiss

Stoney Mesa Winery - Cedaredge

Bouck Brothers Whiskey - Idaho Springs

Stonebridge Farm Winery - Longmont

Stoneyard Distillery - Dotsero

Winery at Cedars Farm - Cedaredge

Sweet Heart Winery - Loveland

Storm King Distilling - Montrose

SOUTH FRONT RANGE

Ten Bears Winery - Laporte

Byers Cellars - Cripple Creek

Turquoise Mesa Winery - Broomfield

D’Vine Wine - Manitou Springs

Viewpoint Wines - Boulder

Evergood Elixirs - Palmer Lake

Vintage Handcrafted Wines - Fort Collins

Denver

Vapor Distillery - Boulder

Honey House Distillery - Durango

Weaver’s Spirits - Parker

Idlewild Spirits - Winter Park

Whistling Hare - Westminster ●

Coyote Gold Margaritas - Fort Collins Coppermuse Distillery - Fort Collins Dry Land Distillers - Longmont

Telluride Distilling Co - Telluride Woodshed Distilling - Pagosa Springs Woody Creek Distillers - Basalt

Elevation 5003 Distillery - Fort Collins Elkins Distilling Co - Estes Park

WINERIES

Feisty Spirits - Fort Collins The Heart Distillery - Windsor

GRAND JUNCTION AREA

Longtucky Spirits - Longmont

Avant Vineyards - Palisade

Mobb Mountain Distillers - Fort Collins

Carlson Vineyards - Palisade

NOCO Distillery - Fort Collins Old Elk Distillery - Fort Collins Old Town Distilling - Fort Collins Spring 44 Distilling - Loveland Steamboat Whiskey Co - Steamboat Spring ●

Le Fuselier Winery at Spring Creek Vineyards - Canon City Mountain Spirit Winery, Ltd. - Salida

Continental Divide Winery Breckenridge

Sette Dolori - Black Forest

Colorado Honey Wine - Distribution Only Dragon Meadery - Aurora Honnibrook Meadery - Castle Rock

Monkshood Cellars - Minturn

Colterris Winery - Palisade

The Winery at Pikes Peak - Cascade

DeBeque Canyon Winery - Palisade

Vino Colorado Winery - Colorado Springs

PLAINS

Queen Bee Brews - Denver

Vino Salida Wine Cellars - Poncha Springs

Claremont Inn & Winery - Stratton

Redstone Meadery - Boulder

Mummy Hill Winery - Holyoke

Garfield Estates Vineyard & Winery - Palisade

CENTRAL FRONT RANGE Allis Ranch Winery - Sedalia

Tower 56 Distillery - Greeley

Aspen Peak Cellars - Bailey

Gubbini Winery - Palisade

Balistreri Vineyards - Denver

SOUTHERN COLORADO

Hermosa Vineyards - Palisade

Bigsby’s Folly - Denver

3 Hundred Days of Shine - Monument

Maison la Belle Vie Winery & Amy’s Courtyard - Palisade

Black Arts Cellars - Littleton

62 ThirstColorado.com

MEADERIES Black Forest Meadery - Colorado Springs

Colorado Cellars Winery - Palisade

Graystone Winery - Clifton

Mesa Park Vineyards - Palisade

Black Bear Distillery - Green Mountain Falls

CENTRAL MOUNTAIN Buckel Family Wine - Crested Butte

Syntax Spirits - Greeley

Axe and the Oak - Colo. Springs

Decadent Saint - Boulder

Legatum Cellars - Canon City

Grande River Vineyards - Palisade

1350 Distilling - Colo. Springs

Augustina’s Winery - Nederland

CIDERIES Apple Valley Cider Co Artisan Craft Cellars - Westminster Big B’s Juices and Hard Cider Hotchkiss Boco Cider - Boulder Branch Out Cider - Fort Collins C Squared Ciders - Denver ● Clear Fork Cider - Denver Climb Hard Cider Co - Loveland Colorado Cider Co - Denver Colorado Common Cider - Colo.

Springs Colorado Plus Cidery - Golden Golden City Winery - Golden Haykin Family Cider - Aurora The Ice Cave Cider House Monument Locust Cider - Boulder Old Mine Cidery & Brewpub - Erie Scrumpy’s Hard Cider - Fort Collins Snow Capped Cider - Cedaredge St. Vrain Cidery - Longmont Stem Ciders - Denver ● ● Stem Ciders Acreage- Lafayette ● ● Summit Hard Cider - Fort Collins Talbott’s Cider Co - Palisade Teal Cider - Dolores Waldschänke Ciders - Denver Wild Cider - Firestone

Songbird Cellars - Beulah The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey Canon City

Desert Sun Vineyards - Grand Junction

Still Cellars - Longmont

Guy Drew Vineyards - Cortez

Peachfork Orchards and Vineyards - Palisade

November-December 2019

Meadery of the Rockies - Palisade

Vines at Vail Winery - Wolcott

Medovina - Niwot

Winter Park Winery - Fraser

Miracle Stag Meadery - Loveland

Reds Wine Boutique - Sterling

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©️ 2019 Patagonia®️ Cerveza, Patagonia®️ Cerveza Pilsner, Fairfield, CA. Brewed in USA