New Brew News – October 16, 2017

Our Thoughts: Although having only been open a short time, Third Wheel has already made made a name for themselves in what was once the craft beer desert of St. Peters. By bringing a variety of styles and flavors to thirsty consumers, plus having both the talent and skill to execute the classics and experiment successfully, they always have an ace up their sleeve. Adding Loaded Barrel B.O.S.S. to their arsenal looks to give Third Wheel a royal flush. They've taken their big old sweet stout and let it have quality time with bourbon barrels, adding more complexity to the beer with notes of vanilla, bourbon and barrel flavors to take it all to the next level. Anything barrel aged typically doesn't stick around, so don't hesitate when you see this on tap. He who hesitates is lost.

Our Thoughts: Once produced on a large scale in the United States, the blackcurrant fell out of favor due to the discovery that it spread a fungus that killed white pine trees, the backbone of the timber industry at the time. After the outlaw of their cultivation in 1911, this fruit was largely forgotten. However, what's old is new again, and blackcurrants are back on the scene. Featuring flavors akin to raspberry, gooseberry and passion fruit, this seems to be a natural addition to Six Mile Bridge's new Berliner weisse. Tart, sour and refreshing, these beers usually benefit from fruit sweetness to balance the sourness. As most people aren't familiar with blackcurrants, this will be an exciting beer to try. If you were lucky enough to attend The Wine and Cheese Place's beer festival this past Saturday, you got a sneak peek. Judging by the feedback, you don't want to sleep on this one.

Our Thoughts: Already looking forward to the new year, the first new Tasting Room release from  Boulevard looks to be a dry-hopped Helles. Translating to "bright", "light", or "pale" in German and originating in Munich as German brewers response to the Czech Pilsner, these beers typically have the same spicy hop character as their Czech counterpart, but tend to be more balanced, leading to more prominent bready malt flavors. Full bodied, flavorful and refreshing, this style proves lagers aren't boring. Look for this early next year as part of the Boulevard Variety 12 pack.