(WA) Wandering the Hop Fields for August 2nd, 2009

Red Hot shows off their pool filter

     Technically no chlorine has passed though this pool accessory but as of last Saturday (the 1st of August) they just poured beer in it with hops inside the filter. Called a Randall (as in Randall the Enamel) this device will add a quick "dry hop" to the beer and impart additional flavors based on the type of hops used.

     Look to see the Randall making an appearance weekly every Saturday at 7 PM. Last week they did a keg of Port Townsend Hop Diggidy India Pale Ale ‘dry hopped’ with the Cascade hop variety. Also for those that don't want to stick around and have a pint or two Red Hot does growler fills of both the 'Randal-ized' beer as well from their other beers. Mmmmmmm wet hops.

Red Hot
2914 6th Avenue Tacoma, WA 98406-6713 (253) 779-0229

Beer Authority has a mind of its own

     Those of you that live in the North Seattle area (mostly between Shoreline and 75th Street N.E.) have no doubt experienced a slight loss in regards to grocery shops that have excellent beer selections. Located down on Lake City Way just before the Fred Meyer, Beer Authority has been in operation for a few months. From their small tucked away space they offer some of the regularly seen beers and some very sought after as well (ala, Russian River Consecration, Black Butte XXI, etc.).

     Owner Barry Adams isn't ignorant to the digital age though since he currently has a newsletter and just recently joined the "blog" movement. So if you have a hankering to know if and when they are getting Russian River Temptation simply subscribe to the site and crack open a cold one to your new / old bottle shop in Lake City.

Chuckanut's Quarterly Brewer's Dinner is almost sold out

     Although Bellingham is a bit of a drive for those of that live in Seattle (ok, its like an hour and a half or so) it isn't without its reward for those that do seek it out. Established just over a year ago along the banks of the Bellingham Bay, Will & Mari Kemper envisioned a state of the art brewery in Washington state. Producing over 1000 barrels per year Will, Josh Pfriem and Jim Parker has so far dazzled both Bellingham locals, visitors and even Seattle alehouses with their bold statemen that a brewery can produce only lagers.

     During this same same time the kitchen staff on top of their daily developed sandwiches and salads have created a one of a kind quarterly event in the form of the Brewer's Dinner. Each season the chefs of the kitchen work alongside the brewer's to collaborate on an excellent demonstration of craft beer and food pairing.

"Brewmaster Will Kemper & Chef Chad Bowes will speak about the Beer & Food as each course is served.
Don't miss out!" source, Chuckanut Brewery & Kitchen newsletter

     Keeping with that tradition the Summer Brewer's Dinner will be held this Monday. Last checked Tickets are still available and can be purchased either in person or on the phone. I wouldn't wait any longer if you have been putting this off since an event like this comes around only a few times a year.

Chuckanut Brewery & Kitchen
601 West Holly Street Bellingham, WA 98225-3920 (360) 752-3377

Boundary Bay is camping out

A quick word from Bellingham, WA based Boundary Bay Bistro & Brewery they will be will altering their hours on specific days due the Employee Camping Party.

“We will have different operating hours the following dates: due to our Employee Camping Party.

    * Aug 10th: Closing at 9pm. No music
    * Aug 11th: Open at 11:30am instead of 11am. Closing at 9pm. No music.
    * Aug 12th: Open at 11:30am instead of 11am. BBQ opens at 5pm instead of 4pm.“ source, Events Page on Boundary Bay’s web presence

     Try and stay cool Washington, I know that Western Washington experienced a bit of normalcy recently but we are still in for some warm times ahead.

Cheers