Posts Tagged ‘Tractor Brewing’

Scale Tipper prevails in all-New Mexico showdown at National IPA Challenge

Posted: March 4, 2018 by cjax33 in National IPA Challenge 2018
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Bosque’s Scale Tipper remains in contention for yet another National IPA Challenge championship.

The results of the third round of the National IPA Challenge popped up a little early online this weekend, with five New Mexico entries advancing in three brackets.

Bosque’s Scale Tipper, which claimed the title in 2015 and 2016, advanced to the fourth round at the expense of Quarter Celtic’s Mor-Buck. I actually had the chance to try the two beers side-by-side last week when I was visiting QC to talk about its medal haul from the New York International Beer Competition. Bosque brewmaster John Bullard dropped in with a bottle of the same batch of Scale Tipper that was sent to NIPAC.

The aroma was notably in Scale Tipper’s favor, while the flavor profiles of the two IPAs were quite different. Mor-Buck was sweeter, with a bit maltier mouthfeel. Scale Tipper was drier and had a higher bitterness, though some of that had dropped off a bit due to aging. In the end, both were complex, flavorful IPAs, but only one could advance.

Joining Scale Tipper in the fourth round of the regular IPA brackets are Boxing Bear’s Uppercut, which knocked out Madison Brewing’s DownTown, and Canteen’s Hop Baller, which bounced past Oskar Blues’ IPA. Next up in the fourth round for each:

  • Scale Tipper vs. Lynwood’s Hop Sauce (which eliminated Quarter Celtic’s Clark)
  • Uppercut vs. Old First Ward’s The Streaker
  • Hop Baller vs. Ipswich’s 1620

The fallen in the third round, in addition to Clark, were Canteen’s Tuttle at the hands of Melvin’s Hubert MPA, and Blue Corn’s Witty Hop Pun, which was really and truly knocked out this time by Hops & Grain’s Lupulin Rodeo (initial results had Witty Hop Pun eliminated way back in the first round before a correction was issued).

As for the other three brackets, Bosque’s Southwest Session reached the semifinals of the Session IPA bracket. Southwest Session ousted Saranac’s Gen IV and will now face Fat Heads’ Sunshine Daydream.

Over in the Specialty IPA bracket, Steel Bender’s Manana moved on to the quarterfinals by defeating Boneyard’s Incredible Pulp. Next up will be a showdown with El Segundo’s Cerveza Fresca Guava. Steel Bender’s other entry, Red Iron Red, saw its run come to an end at the hands of Coronado’s North Island IPA.

UPDATE: The results have been posted for the Imperial IPA bracket. The results are not good. The last two New Mexico entries, Quarter Celtic’s Test Batch #1 and Tractor’s Acreage, were eliminated by Lynwood’s El Hombre Enojado and Melvin’s Citradamus.

Congrats to all the New Mexico winners and good luck in the next round!

— Stoutmeister

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The Week Ahead in Beer: Food fights, belly dancers and an anniversary party on tap

Posted: February 21, 2018 by cjax33 in The Week Ahead in Beer
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Greetings, New Mexico craft beer lovers. Stoutmeister here with The Week Ahead in Beer. This column covers all the breweries in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties, with Santa Fe’s six breweries, one in Los Alamos, and one in Moriarty also joining the party.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

Marble is taking the beer-and-food pairing game to a new level tonight (Wednesday) at the Heights taproom. The Brews & Bites Challenge will pit brewmaster Josh Trujillo and chef Israel Rivera from The Shop against head brewer John Heine and chef Tony Chiado from Kitsune. How does that work? Each chef and brewer has paired up a series of Marble beers with tapas-style foods (four total), with participants getting to vote on their favorite. It costs $30 and tickets are still available (but going fast) at the taproom. It runs from 6 to 8 p.m.

If you cannot make it there tonight, we have some other fun suggestions for the week. The Desert Darlings are back at Tractor Wells Park on Friday night at 8 for the latest edition of Hops & Dreams. This time around it’s the Quentin Tarantino Edition, so make sure to arrive early to get a seat (the joint was filled to the brim last month) to see what these wonderfully creative ladies can do with eight movies worth of costumes and fun. Another option will be to head over to Green Jeans Farmery for its third anniversary bash this weekend. Santa Fe Brewing will of course be at the center of the fun, with the release of the new Twisted Root on Friday. There will be live music, other special beer releases, food specials from Amore Pizzeria, animal adoptions from Watermelon Mountain Ranch on Saturday (noon-4 p.m.), and other charities will also benefit.

On the new beer front this week, there are a few options to check out. Bombs Away brings back the High Speed Low Drag Lager. Bosque is feeling sessionable with Public House Pale Ale. Bow & Arrow is tapping Saison De Blanc on Thursday. Kaktus switches things up with some Rauchbier, Doppelbock, and California Common, and St. Paul’s Porter is back as well. La Cumbre has added Vienna Lager. Marble gets hoppy with 1272 IPA and Desert Fog, plus Jabroni Exxxtra and Session White. Ponderosa will have a Hefeweizen on tap by the weekend. Quarter Celtic resurrects Kill or be KILT, plus adds Dark Pedro. Sidetrack brings back Co-Mo IPA. Starr Brothers has a fresh batch of Black Friday.

Up in Santa Fe, Blue Corn declares it’s clobberin’ time with SMASH Pale Ale. Rowley Farmhouse Ales is rollin’ with the Notorious BdG. Over in Los Alamos, Bathtub Row has Little Bird Blonde back on tap, plus newcomers in Dunkel Bock, Flat Cap Brown, and Lichtenheiner.

Continue reading for all the news that is fit to blog for the week of February 19.

To break down each “capsule,” I listed the brewery (with Web page linked), its phone number and hours of operation. Under “Beers” are the new or seasonal beers on tap for this week.

Albuquerque metro area breweries

Ale Republic — (505) 281-2828

(Mon–Thurs 2–10 p.m., Fri–Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Brune, Blonde, Strong Dark and Handsome, Eagle Claw, Tokyo Black, Single and Ready to Mingle. The most recent additions are the Tokyo Black (5.5% ABV, 24 IBU), an ale made with black tea, and Eagle Claw (4.8% ABV, 41 IBU), a farmhouse pale ale.

Alien Brew Pub — (505) 884-1116

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Call the number above for details on any small-batch beers currently available. They change frequently. The rest of the lineup is from the Sierra Blanca/Rio Grande family of beers.

Bistronomy B2B — (505) 262-2222

(Mon–Tues 4-9 p.m., Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-9:30 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

The Blue Grasshopper — (505) 896-8579

(Noon to 11 p.m. most days, call for more info)

Beers: El Jeffe Hefeweizen, Friars Belgian-Style Single, June Bock German Lager. Rejoice, for Blue Grasshopper is brewing again! The Friars and June Bock are the more recent additions.

Live Music: Bands perform from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday through Saturday. Click the link for the schedule.

Boese Brothers Brewery — (505) 382-7060

(Hours: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–midnight, Fri 3 p.m.–2 a.m., Sat noon–2 a.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: La Onza White Ale, Dr. Strangehop XPA, Duke City Lager, Washington’s Hatchet, Double Dead Red, Super Kreak, TruBlu Pilsner, Komrade Boese. The current seasonals include the Super Kreak, TruBlu, and Komrade, a Russian imperial stout, if you could not guess.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Boese will have a happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, with $3 pints. You can also get $3 pints all day Tuesday and $6 growler fills all day Wednesday.

Bombs Away Beer Company — (505) 554-3204

(Hours: Mon–Fri 3 p.m.–close, Sat–Sun noon–close)

Beers: BABC IPA, Willie Pete Wit, Low Order Porter, Wild Card Spiced Ale, Proximity Pilsner, Actuator IPA, Long Delay RyePA, Boom Stick Brown, Counter Charge Coffee Stout, SNAFU Oatmeal Stout, Hazy Chain DIPA, Dunkelweizen, M1A1 ABQ Common, Imperial Session IPA, High Speed Low Drag Lager. We received a big tap list update from BABC, with eight beers coming off and five new ones joining the lineup. We will miss Stockpile Stout among the departed, but SNAFU is there to replace it. High Speed Low Drag Lager is back on tap.

Bosque Brewing Company — (505) 750-7596 (main brewery), (505) 508-5967 (Nob Hill Public House), (575) 571-4626 (Las Cruces Taproom)

(Main brewery on San Mateo: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-midnight, Sun noon-8 p.m.; Nob Hill: Mon–Weds 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Thurs 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sun noon-11 p.m.; Las Cruces: Sun–Thurs noon-11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Driftwood Oatmeal Stout, Camp Waconda, Moon Cannon DIPA, Public House Pale, John B. Juice, Southwest Session IPA. The Moon Cannon and Southwest Session both advanced to the second round of their respective brackets at the National IPA Challenge. Public House Pale and John B. Juice are the most recent additions.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bosque has a happy hour running from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and all day on Sunday. Look for special menu items and get $1 off your favorite pints.

Bow & Arrow Brewing — (505) 247-9800

(Mon-Weds 3–10 p.m., Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.-midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–9 p.m.)

Beers: (House) Sun Dagger (Saison), True Aim (Scotch Ale), Jemez Field Notes Lager, Nomadico IPA, Visionland Amber Ale; (Seasonal) Cosmic Arrow Brett Saison, Way Out West Sour Sumac, Desert Dynamo IPL, Sweetfetti Weizenbock, Thirsty Land: Foraged Series (Grisette), Coyote Waits (Barrel-Aged Imperial Mole Stout), Savage Times Sour IPA, Vanilla Daze Stout, Saison De Blanc. The sheer variety of styles on tap is quite impressive. Bottles of Dark Mesa, a barrel-aged quad with brett, are still on sale at the brewery, but the supply is limited. The new Saison De Blanc debuts Thursday.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bow & Arrow has happy hour every Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Get $1 off pints.

Boxing Bear Brewing Company — (505) 897-2327

(Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.)

Beers: Simcoe SMASH, Low Rye-der IPA, Featherweight Session IPA, Strong Arm Pale Ale, Sucker Punch DIPA, Bear Trap Hoppy Ale, Das Bear German Pilsner, Bear Knuckle IPA. The most recent additions are the Bear Knuckle, Bear Trap, and Das Bear. There are still a few bottles left of the barrel-aged Standing 8 Stout. The Chocolate Milk Stout is on the regular and nitro taps.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8-10 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Every day at lunchtime (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), for just $10 you can get a pint and a panini of your choice.

Broken Trail Brewery & Distillery — (505) 221-6281

(Mon-Thu 3-9 p.m., Fri 3-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.)

Beers: Otero ESB, Lone Pine Pilsner, Sancho Saison, Pepe the Mule, Double Black, Raspberry Kolsch. OK, fine, Pepe the Mule counts as a beer, even though it is basically a Moscow Mule, but it was made with beer. Double Black and Raspberry Kolsch are the most recent additions.

Canteen Brewhouse — (505) 881-2737 (brewery), (505) 200-2344 (taproom)

(Brewery: Sun–Thurs noon–10 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight; Taproom: Open daily 3–10 p.m.)

Beers: Irish Red, Exodus IPA, Tuttle IPA, Oatmeal Brown, Munich Dunkel, Schwebock, Super Smalls Session IPA, Obey the Darkside Stout. Obey the Darkside Stout (8% ABV, 50 IBU) is now available, and take note that this batch is so good it has been entered in the World Beer Cup. You can try it side-by-side with Dark ‘n Lusty Stout, the winner of this year’s Brew Crew Stout Challenge.

Live Music (Brewery): Thursday—The Real Matt Jones, 6-9 p.m.; Sunday—Boris & The Salt Licks, 4-7 p.m.

Live Music (Taproom): Saturday—Julian Dossett Duo, 5-8 p.m.

Cazuela’s Seafood & Mexican Grill — (505) 994-9364

(Open daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Papacabra (Double IPA), Acapulco Gold (Mexican Lager), Chupacabra IPA, Piedra del Fuego Stoned Cream Ale, Beer for My Horses (Oatmeal Stout). These are the regular house beers. Call the number above for an updated seasonal list.

Dialogue Brewing — (505) 585-1501

(Open daily noon-midnight)

Beers: Belgian Citrus IPA, Berliner Weisse, Blood Orange Berliner Weisse, Strawberry Berliner Weisse, Sour Raspberry, Idiot Sauvin, Belgian Cherry Wheat, Amber Ale, Vienna Lager, Coffee Lager, World as Will IPA, 505 Lager, Moloko Plus Milk Stout, Micro Hands Session IPA. The most recent additions are the Moloko and Micro Hands.

Weekly Events: Monday—Service Industry Night, 6 p.m.

Drafty Kilt Brewing — (505) 881-0234

(Sun 11 a.m–10 p.m., Mon closed, Tues–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Groundskeeper Willie Cream Ale, Wee Beastie Scottish Ale, Campbell Toe IPA, Outlamber Amber, Obliviscaris Oatmeal Stout. The Obliviscaris is back, having replaced the Covfefe Hefe, and boy does it taste good, as we proved with a fourth-place finish at our Stout Challenge. Take note, Drafty Kilt is now closed on Mondays.

Live Music: Saturday—Kookie Jones, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.; Thursday—Blues Jam with the Rudy Boy Experiment, 7-10 p.m.; Sunday—Karaoke with Tobyriffic, 3-7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off pints and 20-ounce pours, Mon-Fri, 3-6 p.m.; “Just Because We Love You Club,” happy hour prices at all times for teachers, first responders, law enforcement, and military with ID; Growler Fill Days on Thu and Sun, $2 off new growlers, $1 off refills

Flix Brewhouse — (505) 445-8500

(Open daily 11 a.m.-midnight)

Beers: Nebulas New England IPA, Dr. Brownstone, Stuntman Light Lager, Say It Loud Coffee Stout. The Dr. Brownstone, Stuntman, and Say It Loud are the most are recent addition. Go try them out while watching Black Panther for the first (or 10th) time.

Hops Brewery — (505) 369-1378

(Sun-Thurs noon-10 p.m., Fri-Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Dad Joke (California Common), Tipsy Cow (Milk Stout), Warm Scottish Nights, An Irish Tan (English Bitter), Honey Wheat, Chica (Pale Ale), Hop Hill IPA. Hops has started out with these seven beers on tap, but they also have 31 more guest taps, just in case you don’t find one to your liking. The Hop Hill (7.1% ABV, 69 IBU) was the most recent addition.

Live Music: Saturday—Melissa Rios, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Open Mic, 7-9 p.m.; Friday—TJ the DJ, 9 p.m.-midnight; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Kaktus Brewing — (505) 379-5072

(Mon-Thu 2-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30-10 p.m., Sun 11:30-9 p.m.)

Beers: Helles Lager, ESB, Puddle Stomper IPA, St. Paul’s Porter, C-Thru Stout, Rauchbier, Doppelbock, California Common, Cider, DjinnJar Kombucha. The most recent additions include the Rauchbier, Doppelbock, and California Common. The C-Thru is what it sounds like, a pale blonde stout with a heavy coffee aroma and flavor.

News: We are sad to report that Kaktus has closed its Nob Hill taproom. Try as the staff might, the location on Monte Vista simply could never get going. Thankfully, the main brewery is still going strong in Bernalillo!

Weekly Events: Sunday—Brunch, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., The Desert Darlings, 6-8 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Kaktus has several new weekday specials, including $3 pints on Monday, $9 growlers on Tuesday, $6 bison nachos on Wednesday, and $8 Frito pie and beer on Thursday.

Kellys Brew Pub — (505) 262-2739

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 8 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Apricot Ale, American Lager, IPA, Lobo Red Ale, Session IPA, Sleeping Dog Stout, 35 N Coffee Porter, Common; (seasonal) German Pilsner, Capspackler DIPA, Dortmunder, Oak-Aged Natalia. The lineup got a bit of a makeover, with American Lager and Common joining the regulars, bumping out the Blonde. The Natalia was originally made at Chama River and dear lord it was dark decadence in a glass. Get some quick before it runs out!

Live Music: Every Wednesday 6-9 p.m. and Sunday 3-6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Thursday Pint night $1 off pints.

La Cumbre Brewing — (505) 872-0225

(Open every day at noon)

Beers: Vienna Lager, Molinillo Stout, REDiculous IPA, Go For Broke DIPA, The Majestic Stag. Make sure to pick up four-packs of Siberian Silk, a lovely Baltic porter, and Go For Broke while they are available. The delicious Molinillo Stout is also available in bottles.

Lizard Tail Brewing — (505) 717-1301

(Mon–Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-7 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Lizard Tail’s happy hour runs seven days a week from 3 to 6 p.m. You get $1 off food, flights, and pints.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.; Thursday—Karaoke, 8-11 p.m.

Marble Brewery — (505) 243-2739 (downtown), (505) 508-4638 (Westside), (505) 323-4030 (Heights)

(Downtown: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.; Westside: Mon–Thurs noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.; Heights: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.)

Beers: Ginger Kid, Chocolate Pinky, Grapefruit Tangerine Gose, Caffee Roggenbier, Desert Fog (IPA), 1272 IPA, Spruce Moose, Jabroni Exxxtra (Lager), Nitro Pub Ale (Downtown and Heights only), Doppelator (Downtown and Westside only), Cholo Stout (Heights only), Biscochito Wheato (Heights only), Cholo Smooth (Heights and Westside only), Hop Fudge Sunday (Heights and Westside only), Tropical Solution (Westside only), Robust Porter (Westside only), Downlowlander Scotch Ale (Westside only), Ol’ Maverick Barleywine (Westside only), Nitro Negra (Westside only), Session White (Westside only). There are so, so many beers between the three locations. Don’t feel bad if you can’t get to them all. The Jabroni Exxxtra, Session White, 1272 IPA, and Desert Fog (yes, it’s a hazy IPA) are the most recent additions. Remember, too, that Cholo Stout is now available in six-packs!

Live Music (Downtown): Music is done for the colder months, but will resume at 111 in the spring!

Live Music (Heights): Friday—Sol de la Noche, 7-10 p.m.; Saturday—Hatrick, 7-10 p.m.

Live Music (Westside): Friday—Julian Dossett Trio, 8-11 p.m.; Saturday—Todd Tijerina, 8-11 p.m.

Events (Heights): Today (Wednesday)—Brews & Bites Challenge, 6-8 p.m.

Weekly Events (Downtown): Saturday—Brewery tours, 2 p.m.

Nexus Brewery — (505) 242-4100 (brewery), (505) 226-1055 (Silver Taproom)

(Brewery: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Silver Taproom: Mon–Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Bird of Prey IPA, Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Equinox, Imperial Pilsner (Silver only), Beam Me Up Scotty (Silver only). The most recent additions are Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Equinox, and Bird of Prey.

News: Nexus Silver now has food! Rejoice and check out the menu on their main website.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Monday–Friday, $5 appetizers, 3-5 p.m.

Weekly Events (Silver Taproom): Saturday—a live DJ will perform; Sunday—a live band will perform at 2 p.m.

Palmer Brewery and Cider House — (505) 508-0508

(Tues–Sat 3–9 p.m.)

Beers: MWA (Malt With Attitude), Guero (Belgian Wit), Pool Session Pale Ale, Cockness Monster (Scotch Ale), Switch Stance Stout, BRO (Double IPA). Palmer shares a building with Left Turn Distilling on Girard south of Candelaria. This batch of Cockness Monster is fresh and tasty.

Ponderosa Brewing Co. — (505) 639-5941

(Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: Spanglish, Gold Medal Pilsner, Saphir Single-Hop Pale Ale, Hop-Mosa, Bernalillo County Stout. The most recent addition is the Pilsner, which was brewed in the German style. Get some of that delicious BC Stout before the supply runs out! A new Hefeweizen will replace Spanglish by the weekend.

News: You can now find India Pale Lager 2.0 for sale in cans, at the brewery and at local liquor stores, including Total Wine, Bird of Paradise, Jubilation, Kelly’s, and Quarters!

Quarter Celtic Brewpub — (505) 503-1387

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.)

Beers: S’More Than a Beer, Coco Orastie (Orange) Stout, Beag IPL, Clark IPA, Test Batch #1 IPA, Dark Pedro, Kill or be KILT. S’More Than a Beer was made with graham crackers, lactose, and chocolate. Beag is a little brother to the Mor-Buck IPA. The Clark and beastly-but-good Test Batch, both advanced to the second round at the National IPA Challenge. Dark Pedro and Kill or be KILT are the most recent additions.

Red Door Brewing — (505) 633-6675 (brewery), (505) 990-3029 (downtown taproom)

(Brewery hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri 11 a.m. to midnight, Sat 7 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Downtown taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wyoming taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Putin on the RIS, Strong Scotch Ale. The Strong Scotch is back on tap. Putin on the RIS is a Russian Imperial Stout, in case you couldn’t guess, and it’s quite tasty.

Weekly Events (Brewery): Monday—The Draft Sessions, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events (Taproom): Today (Wednesday)—Paint it Black Open Mic Comedy, 7-9 p.m.; Thursday—Art at the Bar, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Sunday—Parents’ Day Out, noon-3 p.m.; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7-9 p.m.

Rio Bravo Brewing Company — (505) 900-3909

(Mon noon–10 p.m., Tues–Thu noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–1 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Rio Bravo Amber, Weizen, Dirty Rotten Bastard IPA, Snakebite IPA, Roadkill Red Ale, La Luz Lager, Barrel-Aged Porter, Vanilla Porter, NM Pinon Coffee Porter, Oatmeal Stout, Level 3 IPA, Lemongrass Wit, Blueberry Mint Gose, Imperial Kolsch, Razberry Sour, Belgian IPA, Pink Boots Pale Ale, Marzen, Grapefruit Launcher IPA, Schwarzbier, Cherry Cuvee, Cascade Pale Ale, Porter 4 Humanity, Grab ‘Em By the Putin (Russian Imperial Stout). There are two barrel-aged beers on tap in the Porter and Putin. The Blueberry Mint Gose is the most recent addition. There are also guest taps featuring beers from around the state now available.

Live Music: Thursday—The Squash Blossom Boys, 6-8 p.m.; Friday—Rudy Boy Experiment, 7-9 p.m.; Saturday—Isaac Aragon Trio, 8-11 p.m.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Loungy Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.; Friday—Headliners Comedy presents Friday Night Fools ($5 cover, event only), 9:30 p.m.; Sunday—Pints & Planks with Yoga Zo; Family Funday, 2-5 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Happy hour Monday-Friday, 2-6 p.m., $1 off pints

Sidetrack Brewing — (505) 832-7183

(Mon–Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.–midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Turntable Series IPA: Track 2, Guera American Blonde Ale, Dark Engine Stout, Buzz Bomb, Pub Ale, Single Barrel Stout, Locomotive Breath IPA. The Single Barrel Stout and Locomotive Breath are the most recent additions. Buzz Bomb is a delicious coffee pale ale made in collaboration with the folks next door at Zendo.

Cask: The Locomotive Breath and Dark Engine are in the firkins.

Events: Friday—Cheap Thrills First Friday Art Show, 6-11 p.m.

Starr Brothers Brewing — (505) 492-2752

(Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day)

Beers: Starrstruck IPA, L.A. Woman (Blonde), Red Zepplin, Lampshade Porter, Brown Chicken Brown Cow, Starrphire Pilsner, Foggy Monocle, Thunderr Ale IPA, Phantom Limb Black Rye IPA. The most recent additions are the Thunderr and Phantom Limb, both back for another delicious hoppy run.

Steel Bender Brewyard — (505) 433-3537

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Skull Bucket IPA, Red Iron Red, Sparkfitter Amber, Lloyd’s 3 O’Clock Kolsch, Blue Bullet Stout, Steel Bender Lager, The Village Wit; (seasonals/specialties) Compa Los Ranchos Lager, Oh Gs (Ginger and Grapefruit Gose), Skull Crusher DIPA, Manana Tropical IPA, Cow Plow Brown Ale, Village Innuendo. The most recent additions are the Cow Plow and the Village Innuendo (Cherry Wit), which debuts today (Wednesday). There are still bottles of The Judy, a peach saison aged in Chardonnay barrels, for sale at the brewery.

The 377 Brewery — (505) 934-0795

(Open noon-11 p.m. most days)

Beers: (house) 377 IPA, Dieterhosen Hefe, El CuCuy (DIPA), Fat Brown Guy (Porter), Red Horse NM Lager, Schwarzbier, Berliner Weisse, Naked Ale (Pale); (seasonals) Loonies Lime Saison, Short Wee Heavy, Milk Stout, Peach Wheat, Kolsch, Scottish Ale, Say Juan Saison, Skin Walker Triple IPA, Plum Cherry Sour, Imperial Cream Ale, BBA (Barrel-Aged Dark Lager). A trio of new additions hit taps this week with Plum Cherry Sour, Imperial Cream Ale, and BBA, which is made with coffee, cocoa, and vanilla.

News: Bottles of Bourbon Barrel-Aged Milk Stout aged with dark cherries are still available.

Weekly Events: Sunday—Open Mic/Jam Session, 5 p.m.

Tractor Brewing Company — (505) 433-5654 (Nob Hill), (505) 243-6752 (Wells Park), (505) 243-6752 (Four Hills)

(Nob Hill: Sun–Weds noon–midnight, Thurs noon–2 a.m., Fri–Sat noon–2 a.m.; Wells Park: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–close, Fri–Sun 1 p.m.–midnight; Four Hills: Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m.)

Beers: Three-Two Amber, Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna, Imma Pale Ale, Spiced Cider, Pete’s Porter, Pecan Ale, Turkey Drool, Chocolate Milk Stout, Explora G&T Cider, Nitro Cowboy Coffee (Wells Park only), Oud Bruin (Wells Park only), Vulgar Display of Porter (Four Hills only), 2016 Stein Wine (Four Hills only), Ghost Ranch IPA (Wells Park and Four Hills only), American Wild Ale (Wells Park and Four Hills only), Jack the Sipper (Four Hills only), Belgo American Pale Ale (Four Hills only), Cascara Cider (Four Hills only). An archived batch of Vulgar Display of Porter is available for a limited time. Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna is an imperial chocolate milk stout with a serious kick.

News: Do not fret, Berry Cider is still on tap, but since it is now a year-round offering, we will no longer be listing it with the seasonal/specialty brews and ciders here.

Live Music (Wells Park): Today (Wednesday)—Singer/Songwriter Showcase, 8 p.m.; Thursday—Black Hats ‘N Pearl Snaps, 8 p.m.

Live Music (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Sloan Armitage, 8:30 p.m.; Saturday—Garry Blackchild, 5 p.m.

Live Music (Four Hills): Saturday—Nathan Fox, 7 p.m.

Other Events (Wells Park): Friday—Hops & Dreams with the Desert Darlings: Quentin Tarantino Edition, 8 p.m.; Saturday—Hurdle and Yay! Carl Petersen: A Magical Evening of Wonderment, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events (Wells Park): Monday—Super Tractor Gamers Night, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday—Kamikaze Karaoke, 7 p.m.

Weekly Events (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Writing Wednesdays, 5 p.m.; Monday—Tractor Tune Up, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Four Hills): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Tractor now has a late happy hour from 9 p.m. to midnight on Mondays with $2.25 classic beers and $3.25 seasonals. Also, every first Monday of the month at both Tractor locations is Beer for a Better Burque night. For every pint you buy $1 can go to one of four charities that have partnered with Tractor.

Turtle Mountain Brewing Company — (505) 994-9497

(Kitchen hours: Mon–Tues 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Wed–Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Reminder: TMBC closes early when business dictates. Please call.)

Beers: Infinitesimus Imperial Stout, Yum Yum OG, Ahmnata Khappa Pale Ale, Thundermouse IPA, McSmack. The McSmack and Thundermouse are the most recent additions. Don’t fret if you can’t make it over in time before the stout runs out as brewer Mick Hahn said he’s holding back three barrels for special future releases.

News: Can’t Catch Me Copper Lager is now part of the main lineup and should be on tap year round.

Cask: Tuesday—Kiwi Teeth

Santa Fe breweries

Blue Corn Brewery — (505) 438-1800

(Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: SMASH Pale Ale, La Santa Oscura, Blue Corn Mexican Lager, Witty Hop Pun IPA. The La Santa Oscura is a delicious, holiday spiced dark lager. Witty Hop Pun is Blue Corn’s entry in the upcoming National IPA Challenge.

Chili Line Brewing — (505) 500-7903

(Mon–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: El Jefe (Rauchweizen), Antonio Bandito (Dunkelweizen), Llorona Lager, La Bamba (Rauchbier), Stara Baba (Oak Smoked Polish Gratzer), Jacona Stout, P.G. (Pinche Guey) IPA. The Jacona and P.G. are the most recent additions.

Live Music: Every night at 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Reverse happy hour after 9 p.m. includes $1 off pints, $6 appetizers, $10 entrees and pizzas.

Duel Brewing Company — (505) 474-5301

(Brewery: Mon–Sat open at 11 a.m., Sun open at 1 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 2 p.m.–midnight; Fri–Sun noon–midnight)

Beers: Bad Amber, Marcel, Fantin (Double Pale Ale), Duchamp (Sour Wit), Cezanne Magnifique, HMWWA FIACFW, Cezanne Verite, Fiction (IPA), Lourd of Funk, Titian, Dark Ryder, Grunewald, Goya. This batch of Cezanne Verite is barrel aged and it is also for sale in bombers. The Titian, Dark Ryder, Grunewald, and Goya (13.3% ABV) are the most recent additions, available on tap and in bombers.

Live Music (SF brewery): Friday—Next 2 the Tracks, 7 p.m.; Saturday—Sunbender, 7 p.m.

Other Events (ABQ taproom): Thursday—Drag Queen Trivia, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events (ABQ taproom): Tuesday—Bike-In Brew, 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 4-6 p.m. (discounts for all draft beer), Growler Saturdays ($3 off growler fills).

Happy Hour/Discounts (ABQ taproom): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 5-7 p.m.

Rowley Farmhouse Ales — (505) 428-0719

(Open all week from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Fields of Rye, Agent Scully – Season One, Episode Five (IPA), Germophile (Berliner Weisse), Fruhschoppen (Hefeweizen), Little White Lies (Belgian Blonde), Conduit (Belgian IPA), Bosco P. Coltrane (Chocolate Brown), Petit Blanche – Amarillo, Sarlacc First Order (Imperial Saison), Notorious BdG. The Agent Scully is a series of IPAs which will vary by hop combinations. Episode Five is the most recent iteration. The Notorious BdG, aged in apple brandy barrels, is the most recent addition to the lineup and is also available for sale in bottles.

Events: Sunday—Pulls for Pups with Prairie Artisan Ales, 11:30 a.m. (the Crew will have more on this event later in the week)

Santa Fe Brewing Company — (505) 424-3333

(Main taproom: Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 2-8 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Adobe Igloo, Hipster Union IPA, Lustgarten, Oh Helles No (ECS), Lustgarten Lager, Imperial Pastry-Free Porter. With the colder weather almost upon us, Adobe Igloo makes its annual return. Hipster Union is also back. The most recent additions are Lustgarten, a lager with a hint of raspberries, Oh Helles No, and the big Porter.

Live Music (ABQ taproom): Thursday—Dos Gatos, 6 p.m.; Friday—Vintage Brew, 6 p.m.; Saturday—Cornbread Gumbo, 6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off growler refills in the tasting room on Mondays. $2 pint Tuesdays at the Eldorado Taphouse. On Wednesday, there is a $2 pint special in the tasting room. On Thursday, there will be $1 off growler refills at the Eldorado Taphouse.

Second Street Brewery — (505) 989-3278 (Railyard), (505) 982-3030 (original location)

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Kolsch, IPA, Cream Stout, 2920 IPA, Agua Fria Pilzner, Low Winter Sun Sour, Summer Rain Sour, Chinook Pale Ale, Boneshaker Special Bitter, St. George IPA, Imperial IPA, Vienna Lager. The benefits of having two brewhouses are now apparent as Second Street is loaded with more beers than ever. The Vienna Lager is the most recent addition.

Live Music (Original location): Friday—The Busy McCarroll Band, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday—Mystic Lizard, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music (Railyard): Friday—Half Broke Horses, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday—Sarah Mohr, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music (Rufina): Thursday—Shiii Waaa, The Hammeritz, Cult Tourist, 8:30 p.m.; Saturday—Holy Knives, Golden General, John Francis Mustain, 8:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Railyard): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.

Other breweries you need to visit

Bathtub Row Brewing — (505) 500-8381

(Mon–Weds 2–10 p.m., Thurs 2–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–11 p.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Hoppenheimer IPA, Wit Rock, Pennsylvania Swanky, Dunkel Bock, Flat Cap Brown, Little Bird Blonde, Lichtenhainer. With a new brewer in place, BRB shakes up the lineup. Old favorites Hoppenheimer, Wit Rock, and Little Bird are joined by some fascinating newcomers in the Dunkel Bock, Flat Cap, and Lichtenhainer, a sour ale.

Sierra Blanca Brewing — (505) 832-2337

(Mon–Thurs 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri –Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.)

Beers: Cranberry Sour, Interstella Vanilla, Cherry Wheat, Single Hop IPA, Whiskey Stout. The Whiskey Stout and Cranberry Sour are the most recent additions. Cherry Wheat is available in bottles and won a gold medal at GABF in 2017.

* * * *

That’s all for this week! If you have any questions or comments, leave them below or contact us on our Facebook page.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

New Mexico breweries bring home 9 more competition medals

Posted: January 31, 2018 by cjax33 in Events, News
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Four New Mexico breweries claimed nine medals at this annual event.

Another beer competition, another positive showing for New Mexico. Four local breweries claimed nine medals total at the Best of Craft Beer Awards in Bend, Oregon, this week.

Flix Brewhouse was the big winner with four medals. Luna Rosa claimed gold in the Belgian-Style Witbier category, while Mr. Brownstone also snagged gold in the English-Style Mild Ale or Brown Ale category. (Good luck not having the old Guns ‘n Roses song getting stuck in your head.) Flix also earned silver in Baltic-Style Porter with Darth Malt and a bronze with Rubus Rosa in Belgian-Style Fruit Beer.

Abbey Brewing earned two medals for two of its year-round offerings. Monks’ Ale took bronze in the Belgian-Style Table Beer or Other Belgian-Style Ale category. Monks’ Tripel, a long-time Crew favorite, picked up silver in the Belgian-Style Tripel or Pale Strong Ale category.

Sierra Blanca likewise brought home two medals. Green Chile Cerveza, one of the brewery’s staple offerings for more than a decade, earned gold in the Chili Pepper Beer category. Cherry Wheat, a gold medal winner at GABF, took bronze in the Fruit Wheat Beer category.

Rounding out the list was Tractor, which picked up a bronze for Mustachio Milk Stout in the Sweet Stout or Cream Stout category.

This is just the first of many brewery competitions set for 2018. The National IPA Challenge will kick off soon enough, and things will not slow down for several months.

Congrats to the winning brewers and we look forward to more awards in the days and weeks to come.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

The Week Ahead in Beer: A double Crew brew release is upon us

Posted: January 31, 2018 by cjax33 in The Week Ahead in Beer
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Greetings, New Mexico craft beer lovers. Stoutmeister here with The Week Ahead in Beer. This column covers all the breweries in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties, with Santa Fe’s six breweries, one in Los Alamos, and one in Moriarty also joining the party.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

For those not on Facebook, which is I believe a term we’ve used before, Tractor is throwing the Crew a sixth anniversary party tonight (Wednesday) from 7 to 10 at Wells Park. The band Apollo will be playing (it’s not a metal band, for those who nearly went deaf during our fifth anniversary when we had the masterful tunes of The Extinction and Jagged Mouth shattering the walls). We will also have an archived batch of our Baltic porter collaboration, Vulgar Display of Porter, on tap. In addition, I have a few copies of my book, Albuquerque Beer: Duke City History on Tap, available to sign and sell for $20, plus we have a few remaining Crew supporter T-shirts for $10. There will also be a live Q&A between us and any of you who choose to show up with inquiries about the NM craft beer scene on your minds. If you cannot make it tonight, join us Thursday at Canteen Brewhouse for the release of Obey the Darkside Stout on nitro. The last time we brewed this black beast of ahh was at Chama River, so head brewer Zach Guilmette has brought it back to life. And, of course, this Sunday marks our seventh annual Stout Challenge, where we do a blind taste test of all the house stouts from breweries around the metro area, which we will preview in full Friday and reveal the results Monday. Basically, it’s gonna be a dark, dark week, and not just because the stupid Patriots are probably gonna win another Super Bowl.

Two other notable happenings we would like to share are the first bottle release at The 377 and the Super Bowl party that can’t be called a Super Bowl party at Steel Bender. For the former, stop by this Saturday to purchase a bottle of Bourbon Barrel-Aged Milk Stout re-fermented on dark cherries. There will be a limited supply. An even more limited run of just 35 bottles of the BBA Schwartzbier with coffee, vanilla, and cocoa will also be available. As for Steel Bender, they can’t call their party a Super Bowl party due to the name being trademarked, but make no mistake, it is all about trying to squeeze some fun out of what looks like a potentially lopsided game (and yes, I know the Pats’ past wins have all been close, but let’s get real, the Eagles don’t have much of a chance and I’m rooting for them). There will be mug club benefits for all customers all day, including 10-percent off keg and growler fills. There will also be 10-percent off appetizers, including some new items made just for game day, and special giveaways ever quarter of the game. Steel Bender will also have a hoppy flight of Skull Bucket IPA, Skull Crusher DIPA, Red Iron Red, and Manana Tropical IPA (back on tap this Thursday). People will then vote on their favorite beer of the flight, and that beer will then be $1 off on Monday. Got all that? For more, check the Facebook event page.

On the new beer front this week, there are a few options to check out. Canteen also has Oatmeal Stout and Munich Dunkel on tap, while Panama Jose fans need to hurry as it will be gone Thursday. La Cumbre gets stouty as well with Chew and Swallow Oatmeal Stout, plus Einbeck Two Step is available. Marble has different new beers at each location, with Citra IPA and Doppelator downtown, Nitro Negra at Westside, and Galactic DIPA at Heights, so plan visits to all three this week (just probably not on the same day, that’s a lot of driving). Ponderosa hops to it with Saphir Single-Hop Pale Ale. Starr Brothers brings back Foggy Monocle just in time to defend its title at our Stout Challenge.

Up in Santa Fe, Blue Corn laughs it up with Witty Hop Pun IPA. Second Street has fresh batches of 2920 IPA, Summer Rain Sour, Chinook Pale Ale, and International Style Steam.

Continue reading for all the news that is fit to blog for the week of January 29.

To break down each “capsule,” I listed the brewery (with Web page linked), its phone number and hours of operation. Under “Beers” are the new or seasonal beers on tap for this week.

Albuquerque metro area breweries

Ale Republic — (505) 281-2828

(Mon–Thurs 2–10 p.m., Fri–Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Brune, Blonde, Strong Dark and Handsome, Eagle Claw, Tokyo Black, Single and Ready to Mingle. The most recent additions are the Tokyo Black (5.5% ABV, 24 IBU), an ale made with black tea, and Eagle Claw (4.8% ABV, 41 IBU), a farmhouse pale ale.

Alien Brew Pub — (505) 884-1116

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Call the number above for details on any small-batch beers currently available. They change frequently. The rest of the lineup is from the Sierra Blanca/Rio Grande family of beers.

Bistronomy B2B — (505) 262-2222

(Mon–Tues 4-9 p.m., Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-9:30 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

The Blue Grasshopper — (505) 896-8579

(Noon to 11 p.m. most days, call for more info)

Beers: El Jeffe Hefeweizen, Friars Belgian-Style Single, June Bock German Lager. Rejoice, for Blue Grasshopper is brewing again! The Friars and June Bock are the more recent additions.

Live Music: Bands perform from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday through Saturday. Click the link for the schedule.

Boese Brothers Brewery — (505) 382-7060

(Hours: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–midnight, Fri 3 p.m.–2 a.m., Sat noon–2 a.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: La Onza White Ale, Dr. Strangehop XPA, Duke City Lager, Washington’s Hatchet, Grapefruit Pale Ale, Oktoberfest, Sour Strangehop, Double Dead Red. The Double Dead Red returned recently, so enjoy it while it’s still fresh.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Boese will have a happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, with $3 pints. You can also get $3 pints all day Tuesday and $6 growler fills all day Wednesday.

Bombs Away Beer Company — (505) 554-3204

(Hours: Mon–Fri 3 p.m.–close, Sat–Sun noon–close)

Beers: Short Fuse Blonde Ale, BABC IPA, Willie Pete Wit, Low Order Porter, High Speed Low Drag Lager, Wild Card Spiced Ale, Brisance Bitter, Bag Drag BPA, Arsenal English Amber, Proximity Pilsner, MKDeuce Pale Ale, Primer Pub Ale, Actuator IPA, Stockpile Stout, Phil’s Incendiary IPA, Long Delay RyePA, Bomb’s Shell IPL, Boom Stick Brown, Counter Charge Coffee Stout. The Phil’s Incendiary IPA was brewed up for a great cause, so head over to try it soon. Stockpile is a nice, robust beer that is perfect for the season. The Coffee Stout is the most recent addition.

Bosque Brewing Company — (505) 750-7596 (main brewery), (505) 508-5967 (Nob Hill Public House), (575) 571-4626 (Las Cruces Taproom)

(Main brewery on San Mateo: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-midnight, Sun noon-8 p.m.; Nob Hill: Mon–Weds 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Thurs 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sun noon-11 p.m.; Las Cruces: Sun–Thurs noon-11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Driftwood Oatmeal Stout, Open Space Haze: 41 South, Open Space Haze: 48 North, Honey Porter, Galaxy Far Far Away, Down in the Hollow, The Nathan (Ginger Red Ale), Old Man Jameson. The Open Space Haze is a series of a different IPAs made with varying hop blends. The most recent additions are the Jameson and Nathan.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bosque has a happy hour running from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and all day on Sunday. Look for special menu items and get $1 off your favorite pints.

Bow & Arrow Brewing — (505) 247-9800

(Mon-Weds 3–10 p.m., Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.-midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–9 p.m.)

Beers: Sun Dagger (Saison), True Aim (Scotch Ale), Jemez Field Notes Lager, Cosmic Arrow Brett Saison, Way Out West Sour Sumac, Desert Dynamo IPL, Wolf Eyes (Oktoberfest), Nomadico IPA, Visionland Amber Ale, Sweetfetti Weizenbock, Thirsty Land: Foraged Series (Grisette), Coyote Waits (Barrel-Aged Imperial Mole Stout), Savage Times Sour IPA, Vanilla Daze Stout. The most recent additions to the lineup are the Vanilla Daze, Savage Times, Coyote Waits, Thirsty Land, Sweetfetti, and Visionland. The sheer variety of styles on tap is quite impressive. Take note, Hoka Hey IPA has been retired from the lineup.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bow & Arrow has happy hour every Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Get $1 off pints.

Boxing Bear Brewing Company — (505) 897-2327

(Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.)

Beers: Crystal Kolsch, Scotch Rocket, Iron Lung Smoked Porter, Simcoe SMASH, Low Rye-der IPA. The most recent additions are the Low Rye-der, Scotch Rocket, Simcoe, and Iron Lung. There are still a few bottles left of the barrel-aged Standing 8 Stout. The Chocolate Milk Stout is on the regular and nitro taps.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8-10 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Every day at lunchtime (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), for just $10 you can get a pint and a panini of your choice.

Broken Trail Brewery & Distillery — (505) 221-6281

(Mon-Thu 3-9 p.m., Fri 3-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.)

Beers: Otero ESB, Lone Pine Pilsner, Sancho Saison, Pepe the Mule, Trailworks IPA, Dogtoberfest. OK, fine, Pepe the Mule counts as a beer, even though it is basically a Moscow Mule, but it was made with beer. Dogtoberfest is the most recent addition.

Canteen Brewhouse — (505) 881-2737 (brewery), (505) 200-2344 (taproom)

(Brewery: Sun–Thurs noon–10 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight; Taproom: Open daily 3–10 p.m.)

Beers: Laid Back Lager, Panama Jose Coffee Stout, Tuttle IPA, Hop Baller IPA, Social Capital (Dark Cherries aged on French Oak), Irish Red, Oatmeal Stout, Munich Dunkel. The Laid Back is also available in six-pack cans. Obey the Darkside will be on the nitro tap on Thursday, while Panama Jose will depart for the time being.

Live Music (Brewery): Thursday—Chris Dracup, 6-9 p.m.; Sunday—The Eryn Bent Band, 4-7 p.m.

Live Music (Taproom): Saturday—Russell James & Jacob Chavez, 5-8 p.m.

Cazuela’s Seafood & Mexican Grill — (505) 994-9364

(Open daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Papacabra (Double IPA), Acapulco Gold (Mexican Lager), Chupacabra IPA, Piedra del Fuego Stoned Cream Ale, Beer for My Horses (Oatmeal Stout). These are the regular house beers. Call the number above for an updated seasonal list.

Dialogue Brewing — (505) 585-1501

(Open daily noon-midnight)

Beers: Belgian Citrus IPA, Berliner Weisse, Blood Orange Berliner Weisse, Strawberry Berliner Weisse, Sour Raspberry, Idiot Sauvin, Dry Irish Stout, Belgian Cherry Wheat, Amber Ale, Vienna Lager, Coffee Lager, World as Will IPA, 505 Lager. The most recent additions are the three lagers and the new World as Will.

Weekly Events: Monday—Service Industry Night, 6 p.m.

Drafty Kilt Brewing — (505) 881-0234

(Sun 11 a.m–10 p.m., Mon closed, Tues–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Groundskeeper Willie Cream Ale, Wee Beastie Scottish Ale, Campbell Toe IPA, Outlamber Amber, Obliviscaris Oatmeal Stout. The Obliviscaris is back, having replaced the Covfefe Hefe. Take note, Drafty Kilt is now closed on Mondays.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.; Thursday—Blues Jam with the Rudy Boy Experiment, 7-10 p.m.; Sunday—Karaoke with Tobyriffic, 3-7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off pints and 20-ounce pours, Mon-Fri, 3-6 p.m.; “Just Because We Love You Club,” happy hour prices at all times for teachers, first responders, law enforcement, and military with ID; Growler Fill Days on Thu and Sun, $2 off new growlers, $1 off refills

Flix Brewhouse — (505) 445-8500

(Open daily 11 a.m.-midnight)

Beers: Eater of Worlds Pale Ale, Darth Malt, Hoplo Ren, Nebulas New England IPA. The most recent addition is the Nebulas, but the two that came before it were released in conjunction with Star Wars: The Last Jedi — Darth Malt (Baltic Porter) and Hoplo Ren (Black IPA).

Hops Brewery — (505) 369-1378

(Sun-Thurs noon-10 p.m., Fri-Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Dad Joke (California Common), Tipsy Cow (Milk Stout), Warm Scottish Nights, An Irish Tan (English Bitter), Honey Wheat, Chica (Pale Ale), Hop Hill IPA. Hops has started out with these seven beers on tap, but they also have 31 more guest taps, just in case you don’t find one to your liking. The Hop Hill (7.1% ABV, 69 IBU) was the most recent addition.

Live Music: Saturday—Pawn Drive, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Open Mic, 7-9 p.m.; Friday—TJ the DJ, 9 p.m.-midnight; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Kaktus Brewing — (505) 379-5072

(Bernalillo hours Mon-Thu 2-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30-10 p.m., Sun 11:30-9 p.m.)

Beers: Blondie, Helles Lager, Winter Wheat, ESB, Black IPA, Puddle Stomper IPA, Oatmeal Raisin Stout, St. Paul’s Porter, Imperial Stout, Cider, DjinnJar Kombucha. The most recent additions include Blondie, Winter Wheat, Black IPA, Puddle Stomper IPA, St. Paul’s Porter, and the delectable Oatmeal Raisin Stout. The Imperial Stout is now available, too.

Weekly Events (Nob Hill): Thursday—The Desert Darlings, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events (Bernalillo): Sunday—Brunch, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., The Desert Darlings, 6-8 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Kaktus has several new weekday specials in Bernalillo, including $3 pints on Monday, $9 growlers on Tuesday, $6 bison nachos on Wednesday, and $8 Frito pie and beer on Thursday.

Kellys Brew Pub — (505) 262-2739

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 8 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Apricot Ale, American Lager, IPA, Lobo Red Ale, Session IPA, Sleeping Dog Stout, 35 N Coffee Porter, Common; (seasonal) German Pilsner, Capspackler DIPA, Dortmunder, Oak-Aged Natalia. The lineup got a bit of a makeover, with American Lager and Common joining the regulars, bumping out the Blonde. The Natalia was originally made at Chama River and dear lord it was dark decadence in a glass. Get some quick before it runs out!

Live Music: Every Wednesday 6-9 p.m. and Sunday 3-6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Thursday Pint night $1 off pints.

La Cumbre Brewing — (505) 872-0225

(Open every day at noon)

Beers: Weize Ass Goat Weizenbock, Mind Phoq, Siberian Silk, Chew and Swallow Oatmeal Stout, Einbeck Two Step. Make sure to pick up four-packs of Siberian Silk, a lovely Baltic porter, while they are available. The Einbeck and Chew and Swallow are the most recent additions.

News: La Cumbre will close at 6 p.m. on Sunday, so get those four-packs and growlers filled early!

Lizard Tail Brewing — (505) 717-1301

(Mon–Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-7 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Lizard Tail’s happy hour runs seven days a week from 3 to 6 p.m. You get $1 off food, flights, and pints.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.; Thursday—Karaoke, 8-11 p.m.

Marble Brewery — (505) 243-2739 (downtown), (505) 508-4638 (Westside), (505) 323-4030 (Heights)

(Downtown: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.; Westside: Mon–Thurs noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.; Heights: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.)

Beers: Cholo Stout, Ol’ Maverick Barleywine, Biscochito Wheato, Brett Pale Ale (Downtown only), Imperial Red (Downtown only), Doppelator (Downtown only), Citra IPA (Downtown only), El Gabacho Golden Ale (Downtown and Heights only), Double IPA (Downtown and Westside only), Hop Fudge Sunday (Heights only), Cholo Smooth (Heights only), Nitro Pub Ale (Heights only), Galactic DIPA (Heights only), Tropical Solution (Heights and Westside only), Robust Porter (Heights and Westside only), Downlowlander Scotch Ale (Heights and Westside only), Ginger Kid (Heights and Westside only), Nitro Negra (Westside only). There are so, so many beers between the three locations. Don’t feel bad if you can’t get to them all. The Doppelator, Citra IPA, Galactic DIPA, Nitro Pub Ale, and Nitro Negra are the most recent additions. We cannot recommend the Ol’ Maverick and Cholo Stout enough. Get some!

Live Music (Downtown): Music is done for the colder months, but will resume at 111 in the spring!

Live Music (Heights): Friday—Last Call, 7-10 p.m.; Saturday—Keith Sanchez, 7-10 p.m.

Live Music (Westside): Friday—The Cookin’ Band, 8-11 p.m.; Saturday—Leeside, 8-11 p.m.

Weekly Events (Downtown): Saturday—Brewery tours, 2 p.m.

Nexus Brewery — (505) 242-4100 (brewery), (505) 226-1055 (Silver Taproom)

(Brewery: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Silver Taproom: Mon–Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Bird of Prey IPA, Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Equinox, Imperial Pilsner (Silver only), Beam Me Up Scotty (Silver only). The most recent additions are Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Equinox, and Bird of Prey.

News: Nexus Silver now has food! Rejoice and check out the menu on their main website.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Monday–Friday, $5 appetizers, 3-5 p.m.

Weekly Events (Silver Taproom): Saturday—a live DJ will perform; Sunday—a live band will perform at 2 p.m.

Palmer Brewery and Cider House — (505) 508-0508

(Tues–Sat 3–9 p.m.)

Beers: MWA (Malt With Attitude), Guero (Belgian Wit), Pool Session Pale Ale, Cockness Monster (Scotch Ale), Switch Stance Stout, BRO (Double IPA). Palmer shares a building with Left Turn Distilling on Girard south of Candelaria. This batch of Cockness Monster is fresh and tasty.

Ponderosa Brewing Co. — (505) 639-5941

(Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: Spanglish, Blood Orange Wit, Saphir Single-Hop Pale Ale, Hop-Mosa, Russian Imperial Stout. The most recent addition is the Saphir. A German Pilsner is on deck.

News: You can now find India Pale Lager 2.0 for sale in cans, at the brewery and at local liquor stores, including Total Wine, Bird of Paradise, Jubilation, Kelly’s, and Quarters!

Quarter Celtic Brewpub — (505) 503-1387

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.)

Beers: S’More Than a Beer, SMASH Comet Session IPA, Coco Orastie (Orange) Stout, Beag IPL, Clark IPA, Test Batch #1 IPA. S’More Than a Beer was made with graham crackers, lactose, and chocolate. Beag is a little brother to the Morbuck IPA. The Clark and Test Batch, made for the National IPA Challenge, are the most recent additions.

Red Door Brewing — (505) 633-6675 (brewery), (505) 990-3029 (downtown taproom)

(Brewery hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri 11 a.m. to midnight, Sat 7 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Downtown taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wyoming taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Imperial Red IPA, Plum Gose, Dubbel, WyPA, White AF IPA (downtown only). The WyPA was made to honor the opening of the Heights taproom.

Weekly Events (Brewery): Monday—The Draft Sessions, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events (Taproom): Today (Wednesday)—Paint it Black Open Mic Comedy, 7-9 p.m.; Thursday—Art at the Bar, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Sunday—Parents’ Day Out, noon-3 p.m.; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7-9 p.m.

Rio Bravo Brewing Company — (505) 900-3909

(Mon noon–10 p.m., Tues–Thu noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–1 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Rio Bravo Amber, Weizen, Dirty Rotten Bastard IPA, Snakebite IPA, Roadkill Red Ale, La Luz Lager, Barrel-Aged Porter, Vanilla Porter, NM Pinon Coffee Porter, Oatmeal Stout, Level 3 IPA, Lemongrass Wit, Blueberry Mint Gose, Imperial Kolsch, Razberry Sour, Belgian IPA, Pink Boots Pale Ale, Marzen, Grapefruit Launcher IPA, Schwarzbier, Cherry Cuvee, Cascade Pale Ale, Porter 4 Humanity, Grab ‘Em By the Putin (Russian Imperial Stout). There are twobarrel-aged beers on tap in the Porter (new recipe!) and Putin (new batch). The Blueberry Mint Gose is the most recent addition.

Live Music: Friday—Mose McCormick, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday—Lonn Calanca Band, 8-11 p.m.

Events: Thursday—Open Mic hosted by Nathan Fox, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Loungy Wednesdays with Kookie Jones, 6-8 p.m.; Friday—Headliners Comedy presents Friday Night Fools ($5 cover, event only), 9:30 p.m.; Sunday—Pints & Planks with Yoga Zo

Happy Hour/Discounts: Happy hour Monday-Friday, 2-6 p.m., $1 off pints

Sidetrack Brewing — (505) 832-7183

(Mon–Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.–midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Turntable Series IPA: Track 2, Guera American Blonde Ale, Dark Engine Stout, Buzz Bomb, Pub Ale, Single Barrel Stout, Locomotive Breath IPA. The Single Barrel Stout and Locomotive Breath are the most recent additions. Buzz Bomb is a delicious coffee pale ale made in collaboration with the folks next door at Zendo.

Cask: The Locomotive Breath and Dark Engine are in the firkins.

Events: Friday—Cheap Thrills First Friday Art Show, 6-11 p.m.

Starr Brothers Brewing — (505) 492-2752

(Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day)

Beers: Starrstruck IPA, L.A. Woman (Blonde), Red Zepplin, Lampshade Porter, Brown Chicken Brown Cow, Anniversary Stout, Starrphire Pilsner, Cherry Bombed, Foggy Monocle. The most recent addition is the Foggy Monocle, which won last year’s Brew Crew Stout Challenge.

Steel Bender Brewyard — (505) 433-3537

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Skull Bucket IPA, Red Iron Red, Sparkfitter Amber, Lloyd’s 3 O’Clock Kolsch, Blue Bullet Stout, The Village Wit; (seasonals/specialties) Brickie American Stout, Compa Los Ranchos Lager, Die Dunkel Seite, Oh Gs (Ginger and Grapefruit Gose), Steel Bender Lager, Skull Crusher DIPA, Manana Tropical IPA. The most recent additions are the Lager, DIPA, and Oh Gs, with Manana rejoining them Thursday. There are still bottles of The Judy, a peach saison aged in Chardonnay barrels, for sale at the brewery.

Events: Sunday—Game That Can’t Be Named Day (see our intro above), noon

The 377 Brewery — (505) 934-0795

(Open noon-11 p.m. most days)

Beers: (house) 377 IPA, Dieterhosen Hefe, El CuCuy (DIPA), Fat Brown Guy (Porter), Red Horse NM Lager, Schwarzbier, Berliner Weisse, Naked Ale (Pale); (seasonals) Loonies Lime Saison, Short Wee Heavy, Milk Stout, Peach Wheat, Kolsch, Scottish Ale, Say Juan Saison, Skin Walker Triple IPA, Plum Cherry Sour, Imperial Cream Ale, BBA (Barrel-Aged Dark Lager). A trio of new additions hit taps this week with Plum Cherry Sour, Imperial Cream Ale, and BBA, which is made with coffee, cocoa, and vanilla.

News: See our intro above for info on the first two bottled beer releases from The 377, happening this Saturday!

Weekly Events: Sunday—Open Mic/Jam Session, 5 p.m.

Tractor Brewing Company — (505) 433-5654 (Nob Hill), (505) 243-6752 (Wells Park), (505) 243-6752 (Four Hills)

(Nob Hill: Sun–Weds noon–midnight, Thurs noon–2 a.m., Fri–Sat noon–2 a.m.; Wells Park: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–close, Fri–Sun 1 p.m.–midnight; Four Hills: Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m.)

Beers: Vulgar Display of Porter, Three-Two Amber, Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna, Imma Pale Ale, Spiced Cider, Pete’s Porter, Pecan Ale, Turkey Drool, Chocolate Milk Stout, Kahlua Porter, Nitro Cowboy Coffee (Wells Park only), Oud Bruin (Wells Park only), 2016 Stein Wine (Wells Park and Four Hills only), Ghost Ranch IPA (Wells Park and Four Hills only), American Wild Ale (Wells Park and Four Hills only), Jack the Sipper (Four Hills only), Belgo American Pale Ale (Four Hills only), Cascara Cider (Four Hills only). An archived batch of Vulgar Display of Porter will be on tap at all three locations starting today (Wednesday). Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna is an imperial chocolate milk stout with a serious kick.

News: Do not fret, Berry Cider is still on tap, but since it is now a year-round offering, we will no longer be listing it with the seasonal/specialty brews and ciders here.

Live Music (Wells Park): Wednesday—Apollo, 7 p.m.; Thursday—The Gershom Brothers, 8 p.m.; Friday—CW Ayon, 5 p.m.; Saturday—Nathan Fox, 8 p.m.

Live Music (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Nick Crook, 8:30 p.m.; Saturday—Eryn Bent, 5 p.m.

Live Music (Four Hills): Saturday—RJ Perez, 7 p.m.

Events (Nob Hill): Saturday—Terrence Bingham Art Opening, 6 p.m.

Weekly Events (Wells Park): Monday—Super Tractor Gamers Night, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday—Kamikaze Karaoke, 7 p.m.

Weekly Events (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Writing Wednesdays, 5 p.m.; Monday—Tractor Tune Up, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Four Hills): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Tractor now has a late happy hour from 9 p.m. to midnight on Mondays with $2.25 classic beers and $3.25 seasonals. Also, every first Monday of the month at both Tractor locations is Beer for a Better Burque night. For every pint you buy $1 can go to one of four charities that have partnered with Tractor.

Turtle Mountain Brewing Company — (505) 994-9497

(Kitchen hours: Mon–Tues 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Wed–Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Reminder: TMBC closes early when business dictates. Please call.)

Beers: Cosmic Yum Yum, Count Hellesaurius, Infinitesimus Imperial Stout, Yum Yum OG. The Yum Yum OG, Infinitesimus, and Hellesaurius are the most recent additions.

News: Can’t Catch Me Copper Lager is now part of the main lineup and should be on tap year round.

Cask: Tuesday—TBA

Santa Fe breweries

Blue Corn Brewery — (505) 438-1800

(Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Farmhouse Funkalicious, La Santa Oscura, Blue Corn Mexican Lager, Witty Hop Pun IPA. The La Santa Oscura is a delicious, holiday spiced dark lager. Witty Hop Pun is Blue Corn’s entry in the upcoming National IPA Challenge.

Chili Line Brewing — (505) 500-7903

(Mon–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: El Jefe (Rauchweizen), Antonio Bandito (Dunkelweizen), Llorona Lager, La Bamba (Rauchbier), Stara Baba (Oak Smoked Polish Gratzer), Jacona Stout, P.G. (Pinche Guey) IPA. The Jacona and P.G. are the most recent additions.

Live Music: Every night at 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Reverse happy hour after 9 p.m. includes $1 off pints, $6 appetizers, $10 entrees and pizzas.

Duel Brewing Company — (505) 474-5301

(Brewery: Mon–Sat open at 11 a.m., Sun open at 1 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 2 p.m.–midnight; Fri–Sun noon–midnight)

Beers: Bad Amber, Marcel, Fantin (Double Pale Ale), Duchamp (Sour Wit), Cezanne Magnifique, HMWWA FIACFW, Cezanne Verite, Fiction (IPA), Lourd of Funk, Titian, Dark Ryder, Grunewald, Goya. This batch of Cezanne Verite is barrel aged and it is also for sale in bombers. The Titian, Dark Ryder, Grunewald, and Goya (13.3% ABV) are the most recent additions, available on tap and in bombers.

Live Music (ABQ taproom): Thursday—RJ Perez, 8 p.m.; Friday—Cloud Marvel, 6 p.m.; Saturday—Leah Leyva, 9 p.m.

Live Music (SF brewery): Friday—Full Service, 7-10 p.m.

Weekly Events (ABQ taproom): Tuesday—Bike-In Brew, 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 4-6 p.m. (discounts for all draft beer), Growler Saturdays ($3 off growler fills).

Happy Hour/Discounts (ABQ taproom): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 5-7 p.m.

Rowley Farmhouse Ales — (505) 428-0719

(Open all week from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Fields of Rye, Agent Scully – Season One, Episode Five (IPA), Germophile (Berliner Weisse), Fruhschoppen (Hefeweizen), Little White Lies (Belgian Blonde), Conduit (Belgian IPA), Bosco P. Coltrane (Chocolate Brown), Petit Blanche – Amrillo. The Agent Scully is a series of IPAs which will vary by hop combinations. Episode Five is the most recent iteration. The Petit Blanche is the most recent addition to the lineup, but an imperial version of Saison du Sarlacc and Aromatherapy IPA are nearly ready to go on tap as well.

Santa Fe Brewing Company — (505) 424-3333

(Main taproom: Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 2-8 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Adobe Igloo, Hipster Union IPA, Lustgarten, Oh Helles No (ECS), Lustgarten Lager, Imperial Pastry-Free Porter. With the colder weather almost upon us, Adobe Igloo makes its annual return. Hipster Union is also back. The most recent additions are Lustgarten, a lager with a hint of raspberries, Oh Helles No, and the big Porter.

Live Music (ABQ taproom): Today (Wednesday)—Rise of Seekalae, 6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off growler refills in the tasting room on Mondays. $2 pint Tuesdays at the Eldorado Taphouse. On Wednesday, there is a $2 pint special in the tasting room. On Thursday, there will be $1 off growler refills at the Eldorado Taphouse.

Second Street Brewery — (505) 989-3278 (Railyard), (505) 982-3030 (original location)

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Kolsch, IPA, Cream Stout, 2920 IPA, Agua Fria Pilzner, Civil Rye, XX ESB, Low Winter Sun Sour, Summer Rain Sour, Diablo Canyon Pale Ale, Brown Ale, Cereza Negra, Chinook Pale Ale, International Style Steam. The benefits of having two brewhouses are now apparent as Second Street is loaded with more beers than ever. The Summer Rain, Chinook, and International Steam all went on tap recently.

Live Music (Original location): Friday—The Shiners Club, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday—Alpha Cats, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music (Railyard): TBA

Live Music (Rufina): Monday—Carrion Kind, The Coma Recovery, Desmarde, 8-11:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Railyard): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.

Other breweries you need to visit

Bathtub Row Brewing — (505) 500-8381

(Mon–Weds 2–10 p.m., Thurs 2–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–11 p.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Hoppenheimer IPA, Wit Rock, Hoppen Mother, Oatmeal Stout, Pennsylvania Swanky, Ranch School (Pale) Ale. With a new brewer in place, BRB shakes up the lineup. Old favorites Hoppenheimer and Wit Rock are joined by some fascinating newcomers, such as the Hoppen Mother, a blend of Hoppenheimer and a barrel-aged brown ale dry hopped with a ton of Mosaic.

Sierra Blanca Brewing — (505) 832-2337

(Mon–Thurs 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri –Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.)

Beers: Cranberry Sour, Interstella Vanilla, Cherry Wheat, Single Hop IPA, Whiskey Stout. The Whiskey Stout and Cranberry Sour are the most recent additions. Cherry Wheat is available in bottles and won a gold medal at GABF in 2017.

Live Music: Friday—Clark Andrew Libbey, 6 p.m.

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That’s all for this week! If you have any questions or comments, leave them below or contact us on our Facebook page.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

Beer Notes: New taproom concept and some fun events light up this weekend

Posted: January 26, 2018 by cjax33 in Beer Notes
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That little construction project on McMahon near Unser is the forthcoming west side taproom for Tractor.

Time to clear out the old beer notebook once again …

Tap That offers up a different approach

For those who do not follow us on Facebook, you might have missed our discovery, per reader Matthew Abeyta, that there is a new taproom opening up this weekend. It is not, however, like most (or possibly) taprooms you have ever been to before.

Tap That, located on Montgomery just west of Louisiana (near the old Heimat House/Assets Grille), is hosting its grand opening starting at 5 p.m. today (Friday). The concept, as explained to us by our friend Angelo Orona, is where people come in, get a hi-tech bracelet, and use it to order the beers. There will also be a full food menu. It is not quite like one of those serve yourself taprooms that have popped up in other states (that is still against the law in this state, as far as we know), but it will be a different concept.

We would share more from the Albuquerque Business First story that ran a few weeks ago, but it is locked behind the subscriber-only paywall. Needless to say, if you can afford a subscription (we cannot), go get it, and help some fellow journalists stay employed.

Otherwise, head over to Tap That and let us know what you think. With luck, and a little free time, the Crew will head over there soon as well.

Tastings, tappings, and more

Outside the breweries, there is a fair amount going on this weekend that will keep us plenty busy. It starts today (Friday) at 4 p.m. as North Coast Brewing will be at Jubilation, presenting their most excellent Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout and other beers for tasting. Word is there will even be two bottles of the barrel-aged Rasputin, XVII and XX. It runs until 6 p.m. and is free, of course, but it is so hard to roll into Jubilation these days and not roll out with a box full of delicious beers from around the country and some delectable local offerings as well.

Once you are done there, head on down to Sister for a Bell’s tap takeover that starts at 5 p.m. In addition to the worth-the-hype Hopslam, an imperial IPA brewed with honey, there will be multiple other varieties available as well. The one we are excited about is the Whiskey Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout, which many folks have told us is a much more balanced version than the regular batch.

For events at breweries, might we suggest going to Marble Westside tonight at 8 to see our friend Kristen’s band, String Dinner. Hopefully her other band, Distances, which might be the best metal band in Albuquerque, will be performing again soon somewhere.

If anyone needs to get out of town this weekend, our friends at Truth or Consequences Brewing have suggested a trip south. Take a dip in the hot springs to relax, then head over to the brewery for some fun and new beers. Big River IBA (7.5% ABV, 69 IBU) went on tap Thursday. It is an India Brown Ale, a fun take on a slightly different IPA. The brewery has live music ever Friday and Saturday night, too. Special upcoming concerts include The Pine Hill Haints on Tuesday and The Booze Bombs on Thursday, both at 7 p.m. The latter band is described as German rockabilly, which has us imagining Rammstein crossed with Reverend Horton Heat, or something like that.

The TorC staff recommends The Firewater Lodge, The Blackstone, Riverbend, Las Palomas, The Charles, Indian Springs, and The Pelican as the best places to stay the night.

New brewery/taproom updates

  • High & Dry Brewing has quietly opened in the southeast. I took a tour the other day with brewer/owner Andrew Kalemba, so look for our full story early next week. For now, there are six guest taps available, but the house beers will not be on tap until the grand opening on February 10. It is a sweet little space that they have built on Adams just south of Lomas. It also might be one of the most deceptive taprooms in town. From the outside it looks quite small, but the inside can fit up to 88 people, with even more room in the back for brewing.
  • Tractor has a pending license for its forthcoming west side taproom, plus some pictures went up on social media this week (see above). Look for that space to open in the coming months.
  • It appears the mysterious 1933 Brewing Company announced for Rio Rancho will be moving into the old Fat Squirrel Pub and Grill on Southern Boulevard. Long ago, of course, that was the original location of Turtle Mountain. It will not be owned by the folks behind Pi Brewing, who also previously owned the Fat Squirrel, but by new owners.
  • Construction continues apace at Cantero and Lava Rock, but neither appears close to opening its doors. The Ponderosa taproom at the El Vado Motel redevelopment has been delayed (more on that with the Ponderosa Look Back/Look Ahead Series article coming next week) and will probably not open until later in the spring.
  • Another new addition to the list of pending small brewer licenses is Casa Vieja LLC in Corrales. We are pretty sure we know what this one is, too, but for now we are remaining mum at the request of the owner.

That is all from us today. As always, please let us know whenever you see anything out there that you think is beer news: nmdarksidebrewcrew@gmail.com

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

The big and beastly beers stood out at WinterBrew

Posted: January 16, 2018 by cjax33 in WinterBrew 2018
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The Crew had just a wee bit of fun at WinterBrew.

After taking Monday off due to the holiday, we are back today with a look at what were the best beers that we tried up at WinterBrew back on Friday. It was another outstanding event, one that every craft beer lover in New Mexico should attend at least once. The sell-out crowd of 700 was a jovial bunch, enjoying the many unique beers being poured from 18 New Mexico breweries.

As for the Crew, well, we all had our favorites. If the others want to chime in here at some point, I will add them to the story. In the interest of not going two weekdays in a row without content, here are a few of my picks for the best of the fest. (Note: Due in part to the Rail Runner arriving in Santa Fe about 10 minutes late and then the decision by security to close all booths 30 minutes before the event was supposed to end, I did not get to all 18 breweries.)

A crowd of 700-plus enjoyed beers from 18 breweries.

La Santa Oscura, Blue Corn: This is a delightful spiced holiday black lager that is still on tap at the brewery in Santa Fe. Flavors of chocolate and cherry mix in with the Chimayo red chile for a nice, warm kick at the end.

Coyote Waits, Bow & Arrow: At last, I got my hands on the barrel-aged version of this imperial mole stout. It is a big, thick beast of a beer, and the barrel effects bring out more and more of the spice, yet it never overwhelms the palate. It is still available at the brewery.

Galactica DIPA, Marble: Apparently this single-hop, double IPA thing is becoming a trend. Even with just Galaxy, this is a complex, wonderfully big beer. It is not yet on tap at any Marble location, so drink up the rest so a handle becomes available.

Sin Barreras, Rowley Farmhouse Ales: Alas, this specialty imperial stout does not appear to be available at the brewery, but everyone can hope for its eventual appearance. Big flavors of coconut and maple left us all wondering, is it a breakfast beer or a dessert beer?

14K IPA, Santa Fe: This one was a bit of a one-off joke, but it still leaves us hopeful for a future edition of an imperial-strength version of the hugely popular 7K. We would also like to thank the SFBC staff for donating a couple of sixers of 7K to our beer fridges.

XX ESB and Breaking Plaid Scotch Ale, Second Street: A pair of big, malty brews from the new Rufina brewhouse caught our eye. The latter is more sweet than peaty, akin to a heftier version of the Scottish at Nexus. The best news, besides being on tap, is that some of the Plaid is being saved for barrel aging.

Dark Engine Stout on cask, Sidetrack: If you have never had any of the cask beers at Sidetrack, now is the time. There is a batch currently available with dark chocolate added to the beer for an even more decadent flavor.

The Judy, Steel Bender: At some point a break was needed from the big malts and hops, so this seemed like a perfect time to try this sweet saison made with peaches and brett, then aged in Chardonnay barrels. There are still a few bottles left for sale at the brewery, so get them fast, as they are quite worth it. Drink this and dream of spring.

2017 Barleywine, Taos Mesa: Our friends from the north came down not with White Walkers, but instead a different beast. It is big, boozy, and not for the faint of heart. On your next ski trip (assuming we ever get snow), make sure to check this one out.

Infinitesimus Imperial Stout, Turtle Mountain: One of the first big beers we tried was this heavy, chocolate-y behemoth. This is more than worth the trip out to Rio Rancho for anyone living on the East Side of Albuquerque. Or the West Side. Or the South Valley. Or, really, anywhere in the state.

We’re pretty sure Karim liked most of the beers he tried.

As for the rest of the Crew, as their thoughts trickle in, I will share them here:

Jerrad: WinterBrew 2018 was certainly a memorable night, perhaps a bit fuzzy after tasting a few of the killer imperial/double styles available. The libations that stood out for me at this event would have to be Bow & Arrow’s Coyote Waits BA Stout, with its smooth touch of spicy heat on oak and dark/roasty malts. On the other end of the spectrum, Bombs Away Brewing Company’s B.A.B.C. IPA was wonderful with its hazy, softer NE-style IPA approach. A few other notable mentions would go to Rowley Farmhouse Ale’s Aromatherapy IPA, Steel Bender Brewing’s The Judy saison, and Rio Bravo Brewing’s Grab ‘Em by the Putin Imperial Russian stout.

Kristin: While I couldn’t try that many beers since I was working the event, I loved Second Street’s Breaking Plaid Scottish. The smooth malty flavor masked its 9.1-percent ABV. This is both a good and bad thing.

* * * * *

That is all from us. Hope those of you that went enjoyed it as much as we did, while for the rest of you, make sure to get those tickets for 2019!

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

The Week Ahead in Beer: Tractor revs up another charitable year

Posted: January 10, 2018 by cjax33 in The Week Ahead in Beer
Tags:
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Greetings, New Mexico craft beer lovers. Stoutmeister here with The Week Ahead in Beer. This column covers all the breweries in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties, with Santa Fe’s six breweries, one in Los Alamos, and one in Moriarty also joining the party.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

Stoutmeister puts on his serious face to handle The Week Ahead in Beer.

The good folks at Tractor are once again relaunching their Beer for a Better Burque program. The kickoff party is set for Thursday at Wells Park, starting at 6 p.m. RJ Perez will provide the music from 8 p.m. onward. The four non-profits who will be the beneficiaries this year are Explora, Cancer Services of New Mexico, The Rio Grande Down Syndrome Project, and Equality New Mexico. One dollar from every beer sold Thursday will go to the non-profit of your choosing. Then, the first Monday of every month will see the same deal. We applaud Tractor and all of our breweries for their generosity in giving back to worthy non-profits and charities.

On the new beer front this week, there are quite a few options to check out. Bombs Away drops Bomb’s Shell IPL and Boom Stick Brown (any place that uses an Army of Darkness reference is A-OK with us). Boxing Bear slides in with Low Rye-der IPA. Dialogue rolls out fresh batches of Vienna Lager and Coffee Lager, plus the new World as Will IPA. Kellys has added a new American Lager and Common to its year-round lineup, plus an old Chama River favorite is back with the Oaked-Aged Natalia, a beautiful Baltic porter. La Cumbre resurrects Mind Phoq, a coffee pale ale, and also adds the triple IPA Winner Winner Chicken Dinner and Meridian SMASH IPA. This Friday also marks the tap and can release of the new In the Money, a double-dry hopped IPA. Marble has added El Gabacho, a new golden ale, as well as Chinook IPA and Nitro Brune. Ponderosa’s third variation on a New England-style IPA, Hop-Mosa, is now available. Quarter Celtic has a little brother to its Morbuck IPA in the form of Beag IPL. Starr Brothers is feeling Cherry Bombed by a new cherry wheat, plus Starrphire Pilsner is back. Steel Bender proudly rolls out a new beer Thursday called Steel Bender Lager (you know it’s good if the brewery name is permanently attached). Turtle Mountain has a fresh batch of Yum Yum OG available.

Up in Santa Fe, Blue Corn introduces its Blue Corn Mexican Lager. Second Street has fresh batches of 3 C’s Porter, Rod’s Best Bitter, XX ESB, and the new Low Summer Sun Sour.

Continue reading for all the news that is fit to blog for the week of January 8, 2018.

To break down each “capsule,” I listed the brewery (with Web page linked), its phone number and hours of operation. Under “Beers” are the new or seasonal beers on tap for this week.

Albuquerque metro area breweries

Ale Republic — (505) 281-2828

(Mon–Thurs 2–10 p.m., Fri–Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Brune, Blonde, Strong Dark and Handsome, Eagle Claw, Tokyo Black, Single and Ready to Mingle. The most recent additions are the Tokyo Black (5.5% ABV, 24 IBU), an ale made with black tea, and Eagle Claw (4.8% ABV, 41 IBU), a farmhouse pale ale.

Alien Brew Pub — (505) 884-1116

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Call the number above for details on any small-batch beers currently available. They change frequently. The rest of the lineup is from the Sierra Blanca/Rio Grande family of beers.

Bistronomy B2B — (505) 262-2222

(Mon–Tues 4-9 p.m., Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-9:30 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

The Blue Grasshopper — (505) 896-8579

(Noon to 11 p.m. most days, call for more info)

Beers: El Jeffe Hefeweizen, Friars Belgian-Style Single, June Bock German Lager. Rejoice, for Blue Grasshopper is brewing again! The Friars and June Bock are the more recent additions.

Live Music: Bands perform from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday through Saturday. Click the link for the schedule.

Boese Brothers Brewery — (505) 382-7060

(Hours: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–midnight, Fri 3 p.m.–2 a.m., Sat noon–2 a.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: La Onza White Ale, Dr. Strangehop XPA, Duke City Lager, Washington’s Hatchet, Grapefruit Pale Ale, Oktoberfest, Sour Strangehop, Double Dead Red. The Double Dead Red returned recently, so enjoy it while it’s still fresh.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Boese will have a happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, with $3 pints. You can also get $3 pints all day Tuesday and $6 growler fills all day Wednesday.

Bombs Away Beer Company — (505) 554-3204

(Hours: Mon–Fri 3 p.m.–close, Sat–Sun noon–close)

Beers: Short Fuse Blonde Ale, BABC IPA, Willie Pete Wit, Low Order Porter, High Speed Low Drag Lager, Wild Card Spiced Ale, Brisance Bitter, Bag Drag BPA, Arsenal English Amber, Proximity Pilsner, MKDeuce Pale Ale, Primer Pub Ale, Actuator IPA, Stockpile Stout, Phil’s Incendiary IPA, Long Delay RyePA, Bomb’s Shell IPL, Boom Stick Brown. The Phil’s Incendiary IPA was brewed up for a great cause, so head over to try it soon. Stockpile is a nice, robust beer that is perfect for the season. The IPL and brown are the most recent additions.

Bosque Brewing Company — (505) 750-7596 (main brewery), (505) 508-5967 (Nob Hill Public House), (575) 571-4626 (Las Cruces Taproom)

(Main brewery on San Mateo: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-midnight, Sun noon-8 p.m.; Nob Hill: Mon–Weds 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Thurs 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sun noon-11 p.m.; Las Cruces: Sun–Thurs noon-11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Driftwood Oatmeal Stout, Pale Ryder, Open Space Haze: 41 South, Open Space Haze: 48 North, Beermosa, Shuck If I Know Oyster Stout, Honey Porter, Galaxy Far Far Away. The Open Space Haze is a series of a different IPAs made with varying hop blends. The most recent additions are the Honey Porter and Galaxy.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bosque has a happy hour running from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and all day on Sunday. Look for special menu items and get $1 off your favorite pints.

Bow & Arrow Brewing — (505) 247-9800

(Mon-Weds 3–10 p.m., Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.-midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–9 p.m.)

Beers: Sun Dagger (Saison), True Aim (Scotch Ale), Jemez Field Notes Lager, Cosmic Arrow Brett Saison, Hoodoo Monster Imperial Red, Way Out West Sour Sumac, Desert Dynamo IPL, Wolf Eyes (Oktoberfest), Nomadico IPA, Visionland Amber Ale, Sweetfetti Weizenbock, Thirsty Land: Foraged Series (Grisette), Coyote Waits (Barrel-Aged Imperial Mole Stout), Savage Times Sour IPA, Vanilla Daze Stout. The most recent additions to the lineup are the Vanilla Daze, Savage Times, Coyote Waits, Thirsty Land, Sweetfetti, and Visionland. The sheer variety of styles on tap is quite impressive. Take note, Hoka Hey IPA has been retired from the lineup.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Bow & Arrow has happy hour every Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Get $1 off pints.

Boxing Bear Brewing Company — (505) 897-2327

(Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.)

Beers: Crystal Kolsch, Scotch Rocket, Iron Lung Smoked Porter, Coffee Chocolate Milk Stout (nitro only), Simcoe SMASH, Low Rye-der IPA. The most recent additions are the Low Rye-der, Scotch Rocket, Simcoe, and Iron Lung. There are still a few bottles left of the barrel-aged Standing 8 Stout.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8-10 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Every day at lunchtime (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), for just $10 you can get a pint and a panini of your choice.

Broken Trail Brewery & Distillery — (505) 221-6281

(Mon-Thu 3-9 p.m., Fri 3-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.)

Beers: Otero ESB, Lone Pine Pilsner, Sancho Saison, Pepe the Mule, Trailworks IPA, Dogtoberfest. OK, fine, Pepe the Mule counts as a beer, even though it is basically a Moscow Mule, but it was made with beer. Dogtoberfest is the most recent addition.

Canteen Brewhouse — (505) 881-2737 (brewery), (505) 200-2344 (taproom)

(Brewery: Sun–Thurs noon–10 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight; Taproom: Open daily 3–10 p.m.)

Beers: Exodus IPA, Panama Jose Coffee Stout, Pop’s Pre-Prohibition Lager, Whirling Dervish, Hop Baller IPA, Social Capital (Dark Cherries aged on French Oak), Schwarzbier. The Dervish is a passionfruit Belgian sour. The Schwarzbier, Panama Jose, Hop Baller, and Social Capital were the big recent additions.

Live Music (Brewery): TBA

Live Music (Taproom): Saturday—Chris Dracup, 5-8 p.m.

Cazuela’s Seafood & Mexican Grill — (505) 994-9364

(Open daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Papacabra (Double IPA), Acapulco Gold (Mexican Lager), Chupacabra IPA, Piedra del Fuego Stoned Cream Ale, Beer for My Horses (Oatmeal Stout). These are the regular house beers. Call the number above for an updated seasonal list.

Dialogue Brewing — (505) 585-1501

(Open daily noon-midnight)

Beers: Belgian Citrus IPA, Berliner Weisse, Blood Orange Berliner Weisse, Strawberry Berliner Weisse, Sour Raspberry, Idiot Sauvin, Dry Irish Stout, Belgian Cherry Wheat, Porter for Humanity, Amber Ale, Vienna Lager, Coffee Lager, World as Will IPA. The most recent additions are the two lagers and the new World as Will. A portion of the sales of Porter for Humanity goes to charity.

Weekly Events: Monday—Service Industry Night, 6 p.m.

Drafty Kilt Brewing — (505) 881-0234

(Sun 11 a.m–10 p.m., Mon 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Tues–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight)

Beers: Groundskeeper Willie Cream Ale, Wee Beastie Scottish Ale, Campbell Toe IPA, Covfefe Hefe, Outlamber Amber. The Outlamber is the most recent addition.

Live Music: Saturday—Kookie Jones, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.; Thursday—Blues Jam with the Rudy Boy Experiment, 7-10 p.m.; Sunday—Karaoke with Tobyriffic, 3-7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off pints and 20-ounce pours, Mon-Fri, 3-6 p.m.; “Just Because We Love You Club,” happy hour prices at all times for teachers, first responders, law enforcement, and military with ID; Growler Fill Days on Thu and Sun, $2 off new growlers, $1 off refills

Flix Brewhouse — (505) 445-8500

(Open daily 11 a.m.-midnight)

Beers: Eater of Worlds Pale Ale, Darth Malt, Hoplo Ren, Nebulas New England IPA. The most recent addition is the Nebulas, but the two that came before it were released in conjunction with Star Wars: The Last Jedi — Darth Malt (Baltic Porter) and Hoplo Ren (Black IPA).

Hops Brewery — (505) 369-1378

(Sun-Thurs noon-10 p.m., Fri-Sat noon-midnight)

Beers: Dad Joke (California Common), Tipsy Cow (Milk Stout), Warm Scottish Nights, An Irish Tan (English Bitter), Honey Wheat, Chica (Pale Ale), Hop Hill IPA. Hops has started out with these seven beers on tap, but they also have 31 more guest taps, just in case you don’t find one to your liking. The Hop Hill (7.1% ABV, 69 IBU) was the most recent addition.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Open Mic, 7-9 p.m.; Friday—TJ the DJ, 9 p.m.-midnight; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Kaktus Brewing — (505) 379-5072

(Bernalillo hours Mon-Thu 2-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30-10 p.m., Sun 11:30-9 p.m.)

Beers: Blondie, Helles Lager, Winter Wheat, ESB, Black IPA, Puddle Stomper IPA, Oatmeal Raisin Stout, St. Paul’s Porter, Cider, DjinnJar Kombucha. The most recent additions include Blondie, Winter Wheat, Black IPA, Puddle Stomper IPA, St. Paul’s Porter, and the delectable Oatmeal Raisin Stout. Look for Imperial Stout soon.

Weekly Events (Nob Hill): Thursday—The Desert Darlings, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events (Bernalillo): Sunday—Brunch, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., The Desert Darlings, 6-8 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Kaktus has several new weekday specials in Bernalillo, including $3 pints on Monday, $9 growlers on Tuesday, $6 bison nachos on Wednesday, and $8 Frito pie and beer on Thursday.

Kellys Brew Pub — (505) 262-2739

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 8 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Apricot Ale, American Lager, IPA, Lobo Red Ale, Session IPA, Sleeping Dog Stout, 35 N Coffee Porter, Common; (seasonal) German Pilsner, Capspackler DIPA, Dortmunder, Oak-Aged Natalia. The lineup got a bit of a makeover, with American Lager and Common joining the regulars, bumping out the Blonde. The Natalia was originally made at Chama River and dear lord it was dark decadence in a glass. Get some quick before it runs out!

Live Music: Every Wednesday 6-9 p.m. and Sunday 3-6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Thursday Pint night $1 off pints.

La Cumbre Brewing — (505) 872-0225

(Open every day at noon)

Beers: Weize Ass Goat Weizenbock, Barrel-Aged Malpais on Nitro, Mind Phoq, Winner Winner Chicken Dinner (triple IPA), Meridian SMASH IPA. Recent additions to the lineup are Meridian, Mind Phoq (Coffee Pale Ale), and the hop bomb Chicken Dinner. This Friday marks the arrival of In the Money, a double dry hopped IPA, in cans and on tap.

Live Music: TBA

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Loteria (every other week), 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Lizard Tail Brewing — (505) 717-1301

(Mon–Weds noon-9 p.m., Thurs–Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-7 p.m.)

Beers: Contact the brewery for an updated list.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Lizard Tail’s happy hour runs seven days a week from 3 to 6 p.m. You get $1 off food, flights, and pints.

Weekly Events: Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.; Thursday—Karaoke, 8-11 p.m.

Marble Brewery — (505) 243-2739 (downtown), (505) 508-4638 (Westside), (505) 323-4030 (Heights)

(Downtown: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.; Westside: Mon–Thurs noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.; Heights: Mon–Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10:30 p.m.)

Beers: Cholo Stout, Ol’ Maverick Barleywine, Biscochito Wheato, Downlowlander Scotch Ale, El Gabacho Golden Ale (Downtown only), Brett Pale Ale (Downtown only), Double IPA (Downtown and Westside only), Golden Ale (Downtown and Westside only), Brown Extra 2.0 (Downtown and Westside only), Imperial Red (Downtown and Westside only), Imperial Stout (Heights only), Hop Fudge Sunday (Heights only), Cholo Smooth (Heights only), Nitro Brune (Heights only), Dubbel (Heights and Westside only), Chinook IPA (Heights and Westside only), Mandarina SMASH (Heights and Westside only), Oaked Amber on nitro (Westside only), Tropical Solution (Westside only), Horchata Porter (Westside only), Vunderland (Westside only), Robust Porter (Westside only), Ginger Kid (Westside only), Blackberry Saison (Westside only). There are so, so many beers between the three locations. Don’t feel bad if you can’t get to them all. The Chinook IPA, Nitro Brune, and El Gabacho are the most recent additions. We cannot recommend the Imperial Stout, Ol’ Maverick, and Cholo Stout enough. Get some!

Live Music (Downtown): Music is done for the colder months, but will resume at 111 in the spring!

Live Music (Heights): Friday—Quietly Kept, 7-10 p.m.; Saturday—Tony Orant, 7-10 p.m.

Live Music (Westside): Friday—Los Unusual Suspects, 8-11 p.m.; Saturday—Russell James Pyle, 8-11 p.m.

Weekly Events (Downtown): Saturday—Brewery tours, 2 p.m.

Nexus Brewery — (505) 242-4100 (brewery), (505) 226-1055 (Silver Taproom)

(Brewery: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Silver Taproom: Mon–Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Bird of Prey IPA, Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Equinox, Irish Red, Imperial Pilsner (Silver only), Beam Me Up Scotty (Silver only). The most recent additions are Belgian Tripel, Dunkelweizen, Irish Red, Equinox, and Bird of Prey.

News: Nexus Silver now has food! Rejoice and check out the menu on their main website.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Monday–Friday, $5 appetizers, 3-5 p.m.

Weekly Events (Silver Taproom): Saturday—a live DJ will perform; Sunday—a live band will perform at 2 p.m.

Palmer Brewery and Cider House — (505) 508-0508

(Tues–Sat 3–9 p.m.)

Beers: MWA (Malt With Attitude), Guero (Belgian Wit), Pool Session Pale Ale, Cockness Monster (Scotch Ale), Switch Stance Stout, BRO (Double IPA). Palmer shares a building with Left Turn Distilling on Girard south of Candelaria. This batch of Cockness Monster is fresh and tasty.

Ponderosa Brewing Co. — (505) 639-5941

(Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: Imperial Red, Spanglish, Blood Orange Wit, Dry-Hopped Saison, Hop-Mosa. The most recent additions are the Hop-Mosa (a hazy IPA), Spanglish, and Blood Orange Wit.

News: You can now find India Pale Lager 2.0 for sale in cans, at the brewery and at local liquor stores, including Total Wine, Bird of Paradise, Jubilation, Kelly’s, and Quarters!

Quarter Celtic Brewpub — (505) 503-1387

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.)

Beers: S’More Than a Beer, SMASH Comet Session IPA, Irish Handcuffs Imperial Stout, Cold Brew Handcuffs, Coco Orastie (Orange) Stout, Beag IPL. S’More Than a Beer was made with graham crackers, lactose, and chocolate. After the recent smash run of a barrel-aged 2016 Irish Handcuffs, the new version (sans any barrel aging) is on tap, alongside its coffee-infused counterpart. Beag is a little brother to the Morbuck IPA.

Red Door Brewing — (505) 633-6675 (brewery), (505) 990-3029 (downtown taproom)

(Brewery hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri 11 a.m. to midnight, Sat 7 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Downtown taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wyoming taproom hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to midnight, Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Imperial Red IPA, Plum Gose, Oktoberfest, Dubbel, WyPA, White AF IPA (downtown only). The Imperial Red IPA was the first in a series of beers to celebrate Red Door’s anniversary. The Plum Gose was second and Oktoberfest was third.

Weekly Events (Brewery): Monday—The Draft Sessions, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events (Taproom): Today (Wednesday)—Paint it Black Open Mic Comedy, 7-9 p.m.; Thursday—Art at the Bar, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Sunday—Parents’ Day Out, noon-3 p.m.; Tuesday—Geeks Who Drink, 7-9 p.m.

Rio Bravo Brewing Company — (505) 900-3909

(Mon noon–10 p.m., Tues–Thu noon–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–1 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Rio Bravo Amber, Weizen, Randy’s Shandy, Dirty Rotten Bastard IPA, Snakebite IPA, Roadkill Red Ale, La Luz Lager, Old Town Porter (regular and barrel-aged), Vanilla Porter, NM Pinon Coffee Porter, Oatmeal Stout, Barrel-aged Belgian Strong Golden, Level 3 IPA, Lemongrass Wit, Peach Gose, Cherry Sour, Kolsch, Hibiscus Mojito, Penguin Lager, Belgian Blonde, Cherry Wheat, Belgo IPA, Pink Boots Pale Ale, Marzen, Grapefruit Launcher IPA, Schwarzbier, Rubus Ruckus, Barleywine, Cherry Wheat Cuvee, Christmas Cascade Pale Ale, Grab ‘Em By the Putin (Russian Imperial Stout). A portion of the Penguin Lager proceeds are going to the new exhibit at the ABQ Bio Park. There are now three barrel-aged beers on tap in the Porter (new recipe!), Putin (new batch), and Belgian Strong. The Cherry Wheat Cuvee is a barrel-aged blend of Cherry Wheat and Barleywine.

Live Music: Thursday—Seth Hoffman, 6-8 p.m.; Friday—The Squash Blossom Boys, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday—Nathan Fox, 7-9 p.m.

Weekly Events: Today (Wednesday)—Loungy Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.; Friday—Headliners Comedy presents Friday Night Fools ($5 cover, event only), 9:30 p.m.; Sunday—Pints & Planks with Yoga Zo

Happy Hour/Discounts: Happy hour Monday-Friday, 2-6 p.m., $1 off pints

Sidetrack Brewing — (505) 832-7183

(Mon–Thurs 3–11 p.m., Fri 3 p.m.–midnight, Sat noon–midnight, Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Turntable Series IPA: Track 1, Gura American Blonde Ale, Belgian Farmhouse Ale, 3:10 to Belen Brown Ale, Railhead Red, Dark Engine Stout, Buzz Bomb. The Turntable, Gura, and Belgian Farmhouse are the most recent additions. Buzz Bomb is a delicious coffee pale ale made in collaboration with the folks next door at Zendo.

Cask: The Turntable and Dark Engine, with cocoa nibs added, are in the firkins.

Starr Brothers Brewing — (505) 492-2752

(Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day)

Beers: Starrstruck IPA, L.A. Woman (Blonde), Red Zepplin, Lampshade Porter, Brown Chicken Brown Cow, Jack Tooth Grin, A Roll in Ze Hay (Hefeweizen), Black Friday (Dark American Lager), Zombies in the Manger (Biscochito Stout), Starrphire Pilsner, Cherry Bombed. The most recent additions are Cherry Bombed, Pilsner, and the Zombies in the Manger, which is downright sacrilicious.

Steel Bender Brewyard — (505) 433-3537

(Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: (house) Skull Bucket IPA, Red Iron Red, Sparkfitter Amber, Lloyd’s 3 O’Clock Kolsch, Blue Bullet Stout, The Village Wit; (seasonals/specialties) Figgy Pudding, Brickie American Stout, Compa Los Ranchos Lager, Die Dunkel Seite, Oh Gs. The most recent additions are the Dunkel, Compa, Brickie, and Oh Gs (ginger and grapefruit gose). Steel Bender Lager goes on tap Thursday. There are still bottles of The Judy for sale at the brewery.

The 377 Brewery — (505) 934-0795

(Open noon-11 p.m. most days)

Beers: (house) 377 IPA, Dieterhosen Hefe, El CuCuy (DIPA), Fat Brown Guy (Porter), Red Horse NM Lager, Schwarzbier, Berliner Weisse, Naked Ale (Pale); (seasonals) Loonies Lime Saison, Short Wee Heavy, Milk Stout, Peach Wheat, Kolsch, Scottish Ale, Say Juan Saison, Barrel-Aged Tart Cherry Milk Stout, Skin Walker Triple IPA. A most excellent update from the folks at The 377 features four new additions to the seasonal list with Loonies, Short Wee Heavy, Skin Walker, and the BA Tart Cherry Milk Stout. It’s quite the variety, isn’t it?

Weekly Events: Sunday—Open Mic/Jam Session, 5 p.m.

Tractor Brewing Company — (505) 433-5654 (Nob Hill), (505) 243-6752 (Wells Park), (505) 243-6752 (Four Hills)

(Nob Hill: Sun–Weds noon–midnight, Thurs noon–2 a.m., Fri–Sat noon–2 a.m.; Wells Park: Mon–Thurs 3 p.m.–close, Fri–Sun 1 p.m.–midnight; Four Hills: Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m.)

Beers: Three-Two Amber, 2016 Stein Wine, Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna, Imma Pale Ale, Spiced Cider, Pete’s Porter, Pecan Ale, Nitro Cowboy Coffee (Wells Park only), American Wild Ale (Wells Park and Four Hills only), Desert Dweller DIPA (Nob Hill only), Jack the Sipper (Four Hills only), Belgo American Pale Ale (Four Hills only), Cascara Cider (Four Hills only), Javi Lager (Four Hills only). Recent additions to the lineup are Pecan Ale, Pete’s Porter, and the American Wild Ale, as well as the Imma Pale Ale, made in collaboration with Immastar Productions, and the Spiced Cider. Barrel-Aged Leche de Luna is an imperial chocolate milk stout with a serious kick.

News: Do not fret, Berry Cider is still on tap, but since it is now a year-round offering, we will no longer be listing it with the seasonal/specialty brews and ciders here.

Live Music (Wells Park): Today (Wednesday)—Singer Songwriter Showcase, 8 p.m.; Thursday—RJ Perez, 8 p.m.; Friday—Jesse Littlebird Showcase, 7 p.m.; Saturday—String Dinner, 8 p.m.

Live Music (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Casey Mraz, 8:30 p.m.; Saturday—Michael Anthony Giudicissi, 5 p.m.

Live Music (Four Hills): Saturday—Seth Hoffman, 7 p.m.

Events (Wells Park): Thursday—Beer for a Better Burque Launch Party, 6 p.m.; Saturday—Babes and Bullies, 5 p.m.

Events (Four Hills): Thursday—Glass Globe Terrarium with Citrine Crystal, 6:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Wells Park): Tuesday—Kamikaze Karaoke, 7 p.m.

Weekly Events (Nob Hill): Today (Wednesday)—Writing Wednesdays, 5 p.m.; Monday—Tractor Tune Up, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Four Hills): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 7 p.m.

Also, every first Monday of the month at both Tractor locations is Beer for a Better Burque night. For every pint you buy $1 can go to one of four charities that have partnered with Tractor. You can also opt to purchase a special growler with the logo of your favorite charity.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Tractor now has a late happy hour from 9 p.m. to midnight on Mondays with $2.25 classic beers and $3.25 seasonals.

Turtle Mountain Brewing Company — (505) 994-9497

(Kitchen hours: Mon–Tues 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Wed–Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Reminder: TMBC closes early when business dictates. Please call.)

Beers: Cosmic Yum Yum, Count Hellesaurius, Infinitesimus Imperial Stout, Yum Yum OG. The Yum Yum OG, Infinitesimus, and Hellesaurius are the most recent additions.

News: Can’t Catch Me Copper Lager is now part of the main lineup and should be on tap year round.

Cask: Tuesday—TBA

Santa Fe breweries

Blue Corn Brewery — (505) 438-1800

(Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Farmhouse Funkalicious, La Santa Oscura, Blue Corn Mexican Lager, Conspirator Doppelbock. The La Santa Oscura is a holiday spiced dark lager. The Mexican Lager and Funkalicious are the most recent additions. Damn it, you guys, you drank up all the Cosmic Darkness before most of us could make it to Santa Fe!

Chili Line Brewing — (505) 500-7903

(Mon–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.)

Beers: El Jefe (Rauchweizen), Antonio Bandito (Dunkelweizen), Llorona Lager, La Bamba (Rauchbier), Stara Baba (Oak Smoked Polish Gratzer), Jacona Stout, P.G. (Pinche Guey) IPA. The Jacona and P.G. are the most recent additions.

Live Music: Every night at 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: Reverse happy hour after 9 p.m. includes $1 off pints, $6 appetizers, $10 entrees and pizzas.

Duel Brewing Company — (505) 474-5301

(Brewery: Mon–Sat open at 11 a.m., Sun open at 1 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 2 p.m.–midnight; Fri–Sun noon–midnight)

Beers: Bad Amber, Marcel, Fantin (Double Pale Ale), Duchamp (Sour Wit), Cezanne Magnifique, HMWWA FIACFW, Cezanne Verite, Fiction (IPA), Lourd of Funk, Titian, Dark Ryder, Grunewald. This batch of Cezanne Verite is barrel aged and it is also for sale in bombers. The Titian, Dark Ryder, and Grunewald are the most recent additions, available on tap and in bombers.

Live Music (ABQ taproom): Friday—Pray for Brain, 8 p.m.

Live Music (SF brewery): Thursday—Hogan and Moss, 6 p.m.; Friday—Duo Rasminko, 7 p.m.; Saturday—Escape on a Horse, 7 p.m.

Other Events (ABQ taproom): Thursday—Drag Queen Trivia: Harry Potter Edition, 8 p.m.

Weekly Events (ABQ taproom): Tuesday—Bike-In Brew, 7 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts (Brewery): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 4-6 p.m. (discounts for all draft beer), Growler Saturdays ($3 off growler fills).

Happy Hour/Discounts (ABQ taproom): Happy hour Mon–Fri, 5-7 p.m.

Rowley Farmhouse Ales — (505) 428-0719

(Open all week from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Beers: Fields of Rye, Saison du Sarlacc, Agent Scully – Season One, Episode Four (IPA), Germophile (Berliner Weisse), Fruhschoppen (Hefeweizen), Little White Lies (Belgian Blonde), Conduit (Belgian IPA), Bosco P. Coltrane (Chocolate Brown). The Agent Scully is a series of IPAs which will vary by hop combinations. Episode 4 is the most recent iteration. The Coltrane is the most recent addition to the lineup.

Santa Fe Brewing Company — (505) 424-3333

(Main taproom: Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 2-8 p.m.; ABQ taproom: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.)

Beers: Adobe Igloo, Hipster Union IPA, Lustgarten, Oh Helles No (ECS), Lustgarten Lager, Imperial Pastry-Free Porter. With the colder weather almost upon us, Adobe Igloo makes its annual return. Hipster Union is also back. The most recent additions are Lustgarten, a lager with a hint of raspberries, Oh Helles No, and the big Porter.

Live Music (ABQ taproom): Thursday—Gato Malo, 6 p.m.; Friday—Rise of Seekalae, 6 p.m.; Saturday—Eugene, 6 p.m.; Sunday—Cornbread Gumbo, 6 p.m.

Happy Hour/Discounts: $1 off growler refills in the tasting room on Mondays. $2 pint Tuesdays at the Eldorado Taphouse. On Wednesday, there is a $2 pint special in the tasting room. On Thursday, there will be $1 off growler refills at the Eldorado Taphouse.

Second Street Brewery — (505) 989-3278 (Railyard), (505) 982-3030 (original location)

(Mon–Thurs 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday noon-9 p.m.)

Beers: Kolsch, IPA, Cream Stout, Cherry Wood Smoked Imperial Porter, Rufina Amber, 2920 IPA, IPA 1000, Agua Fria Pilzner, Rod’s Steam Bitter, Anniversary Ale, Civil Rye, XX ESB, Low Summer Sun Sour, Rod’s Best Bitter, 3 C’s Porter. The benefits of having two brewhouses are now apparent as Second Street is loaded with more beers than ever. The XX ESB, Low Summer Sun Sour, Rod’s Best Bitter, and 3 C’s Porter all went on tap this week. The Steam Bitter won bronze at the Great American Beer Festival in October.

Live Music (Original location): TBA

Live Music (Railyard): TBA

Live Music (Rufina): Saturday—Fox White, Swords of Fatima, Georgio, 7:30 p.m.

Weekly Events (Railyard): Today (Wednesday)—Geeks Who Drink, 8 p.m.

Other breweries you need to visit

Bathtub Row Brewing — (505) 500-8381

(Mon–Weds 2–10 p.m., Thurs 2–11 p.m., Fri–Sat noon–11 p.m., Sun noon–10 p.m.)

Beers: Kutthroat Kolsch, Kaboom Quad, Wit Rock, Catherine’s Historical Stout, Little Bird Blonde, Anderson Amber. Well, look at that, an updated beer list for BRB. The Wit Rock and Little Bird are old favorites, the rest are more recent recipes.

Sierra Blanca Brewing — (505) 832-2337

(Mon–Thurs 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri –Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.)

Beers: Cranberry Sour, Interstella Vanilla, Cherry Wheat, Single Hop IPA, Whiskey Stout. The Whiskey Stout is the most recent addition. The Cranberry Sour is the most recent addition. Oktoberfest is now available on tap. Cherry Wheat is available in bottles and won a gold medal at GABF this year.

* * * *

That’s all for this week! If you have any questions or comments, leave them below or contact us on our Facebook page.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

Ten local breweries set for annual Taos Brewmasters Festival

Posted: January 5, 2018 by cjax33 in Events
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Folks will be gathering again at the Taos Ski Area for the annual Brewmasters Festival.

The Taos Brewmasters Festival returns for its 22nd edition this Saturday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. As in the past, it will be held at the base of Lift #1 at the Taos Ski Area, inside Tenderfoot Katie’s and the Martini Tree Bar.

This year’s event will feature 10 New Mexico breweries and a long list of out-of-state breweries, most of which will be represented by their distributors. The out-of-state breweries will include Alaskan, Bell’s, Big Sky, Full Sail, Left Hand, New Belgium, Odell, Oskar Blues, Sierra Nevada, Shiner, and Upslope.

As for the locals, we asked for their beer lists and half of them responded so far. If others add theirs late, we will update this story, as always.

  • Bosque: TBA
  • Dialogue: TBA
  • Eske’s: unavailable
  • La Cumbre: Project Dank, A Slice of Hefen, Malpais Stout, Imperial Red (collab with Taos Mesa)
  • Marble: Double White, IPA, Red Ale, Pilsner, Oatmeal Stout
  • Santa Fe: TBA
  • Steel Bender: The Judy, Red Iron Red, Skull Bucket IPA, Brickie American Stout, Die Dunkel Seite
  • Taos Mesa: TBA
  • Three Rivers: Float the Rivers (American lager), Pineberry (IPA), Coco Negro (Imperial stout with Toasted Coconut), Black Lilly (BBA imperial stout)
  • Tractor: Almanac IPA, Mustachio Milk Stout, NM Lager, Delicious Red Apple Cider

If you feel like getting out of town for a weekend, this is always an event worth attending. The entry fee is $30 at the door and you get a commemorative tasting mug.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

A bountiful year on the Beer Farm will roll over into 2018 for Tractor

Posted: November 20, 2017 by cjax33 in Look Back/Look Ahead Series 2017-18
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The beers were flowing and business was busy again at Tractor in 2017.

Change is the one constant at our local breweries, even the long-established ones like Tractor Brewing. A frenetic 2017 is nearly in the books, so I sat down with co-owner/president Skye Devore, co-owner/brewmaster David Hargis, and marketing director Jeremy Kinter last Thursday to try to sum it all up and preview what is on deck for 2018.

“I always have a hard time remembering,” Skye said. “I’m like what did we do this year, I always feel like we didn’t do anything, but we did a lot.

“We opened a (new) taproom. We went into distribution in El Paso. We did some seasonal cans, that was new and exciting, and transitioned everything to 16-ounce cans except for (Mustachio) Milk Stout. I think that’s all.”

Jeremy added that the recent Stranger Things Arcade Carnival was the single largest event, in terms of attendance and sheer scope, in the history of the Wells Park location.

Yes, this photo of the Stranger Things Arcade Carnival is a little blurry, but someone was a few beers deep when he took it in the jam-packed Wells Park taproom.

Most of the headlines this year were about the new Four Hills taproom, which proved to be a relatively easy project for the brewery staff.

“We’re pretty fortunate that we didn’t have any big construction delays at Four Hills,” Skye said. “It was pretty quick. We signed the lease in April and opened in August.”

The locals in the area, many of whom had never tried Tractor before, quickly embraced the taproom.

“It seems to me it’s also been the fastest adoption by a neighborhood,” David said. “The neighborhood was very welcome to us right off the bat. We saw our distinguished guests coming in from the first day.”

Since David was largely responsible for the buildout, he was quite glad to avoid any major stress with the project.

“Given all the new taprooms that are opening, it’s kind of cool that that level of stress was a little bit relieved.”

The new Four Hills taproom remains a popular spot since opening in August.

Skye said the traffic has not slowed down since August, which has been a pleasant surprise.

“They’re going really good,” she said. “Going into winter you’re always nervous opening something. We really weren’t sure of the audience we were going to capture up there. We’re really surprised that it’s an older audience than we get at our other locations. We have a lovely group of retired ladies who come in after Sunday chatter and drink 6-ounce beers and eat sandwiches.

“Early on, we got some interesting reviews from folks about our choice of music was something their 18-year-old daughter would listen to. So we’ve had to adjust part of our style to their style in some ways, but there’s also a younger crowd that comes in, too, that lives around the area. It’s definitely the most diverse population, but I feel like we’ve been able to have and I feel that’s good for us as a brand.”

Most of the construction in Nob Hill is now complete, much to Tractor’s relief.

As for the other off-site taproom, Nob Hill has managed to weather the storm of the Albuquerque Rapid Transit construction that tore up Central for much of the year.

“It was supposed to be done with construction before Shop and Stroll in Nob Hill (on December 7), and then have it full up and running February,” Skye said. “That’s kind of a big deal for us. Having all that construction in Nob Hill, having that landscape of the neighborhood change so much with things closing down has been very interesting for us.”

Dealing with A.R.T. also brought the businesses in Nob Hill together like never before.

“We did the Superhero Pub Crawl and everyone jumped on board immediately — Bosque, Kaktus, (Zinc) Cellar, Nob Hill Bar & Grill — it was super awesome,” Jeremy said.

Skye said the need for unity will continue going forward.

“Businesses are pulling together a lot more because everyone is like how do we tell the story that A.R.T. is over and Nob Hill is still fun, so you should come to Nob Hill,” she said. “It has been kind of cool because when we first opened there we wanted to be the neighborhood bar and we feel like we lost some of that whenever things got super busy, whenever Nob Hill turned into a bar district. It’s gone back that way. Of course, that doesn’t always feel that great in your pocketbook, but as far as the vibe of regulars and people you see all the time, stuff like that, it’s been positive for that.”

Tractor also has a new landlord at the Nob Hill location, who has already talked of helping out his tenant “do some expansion of our footprint,” Skye said, in addition to putting a new bakery and cafe into the old bike shop space next door. What that expansion will look like is to be determined, but it could involve adding more bathrooms (rejoice!).

Another popular event not mentioned was Hops for Harvey, a benefit for Houston-area breweries affected by the hurricane.

Down at the main brewery at Wells Park, there have been plenty of popular events, from as big as the Arcade Carnival to many smaller ones. Change, though, is afoot there as well. The rising popularity of neighboring breweries has actually been more of a positive than a drain on business.

“Something new opens around you and you’re like what’s going to happen, but it’s been pretty constant,” Skye said. “I definitely feel like we’ve seen an uptick since we started doing our own food in-house, which we were definitely pretty nervous about.”

Ah, yes, the other big change saw Tractor open a small kitchen in what used to be the merchandise room located off the main taproom area at Wells Park. As the Crew noted recently, the decreasing number of reliable food trucks has forced some changes at breweries and taprooms around town.

“I think it’s been great,” Skye said. “It’s allowed us to consolidate what we feel are the easiest to work with who offer us food all over to the Nob Hill location. A lot of them shut down in the winter, so it’s been easier to deal with and manage. Dealing with that many trucks’ schedules across two locations was taking too much of Jeremy’s time.”

Jeremy, looking a bit more relaxed than he has in recent months, agreed.

“It’s significantly reduced time spent on my end just literally calling food trucks for an hour or two,” he said. “I feel like we’ve moved our best and brightest (to Nob Hill only) and I’m really happy in December with our food truck schedule, in the variety we have to offer and the following that those food trucks have. Soo Bak, Cheesy Street, Route 66 Grill, all really top-notch food trucks.”

Tractor transitioned to 16-ounce cans for most of its styles in 2017.

Beyond all the taprooms and kitchens and events and such, Tractor also saw some changes to its beer landscape in 2017. From new 16-ounce cans to new styles, it was a diverse year, with special limited canning runs replacing the 22-ounce bombers of the past. Only Mustachio Milk Stout remains in 12-ounce cans, though that will transition over in 2018.

“We put New Mexican Lager in a can this year, it’s a full-time can offering,” Skye said of what has become one of the brewery’s most popular styles. “Seasonally we’ve done Honey Wheat, Big Sipper, (Golden) Dry Cider, and now Turkey Drool coming out, so we’ve done limited runs of all those. We put out our first barrel-aged sour this year (Flanders Red).”

David said he plans to close out the year in style with a couple more big releases.

“We will have our second sour release, it just needs to be kegged,” he said. “These will be three-year-old, barrel-aged sours. I thought the Flanders was very approachable. It still had a level of malt blended with the sourness. The next batch is going to be advanced in its palate requirements.”

The number of barrels tucked away in the back continues to increase.

“We’re continuing to expand the sour program, so that’s a lot of fun for us,” David said. “Coming out this year, a different change, the Luna fans may be a little disappointed, but the barrel-aged is going to be the Luna de los Muertos, but with chocolate and milk. Barrel aged in bourbon barrels for 13 months. It comes out December 8.”

If anyone wants to know where the Crew will be that day, well, your question has been answered.

This year also saw an explosion in the popularity of cider. In addition to winning multiple local and national awards with the main Delicious Red Hard Apple Cider, Tractor added Berry Cider year round and also produced a slew of seasonal ciders that were big hits.

“We can make a batch of a seasonal cider and be out of it in like two to three weeks,” Skye said, with Jeremy adding that two of the biggest hits all year were the Thai Basil Mint Cider and the Blood Orange Cider.

Tractor also picked up some awards for its beers over the course of the year, with longtime Crew favorite Double Plow Oatmeal Stout winning a gold medal at the Los Angeles Beer Competition. There should also be two more local awards to add to the list before the end of the year.

“And then, it hasn’t been officially announced, but we assume we won Best Stout and Best Cider for Best of the City in ABQ the Mag, because they came and took pictures,” Jeremy said. “They said you finished top five in each of these categories, but we want to take pictures of the cider and (milk) stout.”

Overall, it was a solid year on the Beer Farm.

Another new taproom among the many projects on deck for 2018

Another taproom is on the way in 2018, though it won’t look exactly like the Four Hills location.

For a good chunk of the year, the Crew was asked to keep quiet after we learned from a couple of our readers that Tractor was planning on opening a taproom on the West Side near McMahon and Unser. It was mainly due to the fact that nothing had even been built yet. Well, things are finally moving ahead to the point where the command staff is willing to talk about it.

“We finally started moving dirt on our Westside taproom,” Skye said. “That’s finally in the works enough we can maybe talk about it, hope we don’t jinx it.”

The new location will be the first where Tractor does not have to re-purpose an existing building, as it did in Nob Hill (a former yoga studio), Wells Park (a furniture factory showroom), and Four Hills (a pizza restaurant).

“It will be our first new construction space ever,” David said. “This will not be a remodel. We’ll be handed a clean canvas. A lot of our budget every time goes to solving an issue because the space doesn’t fit us. Now it’s going to be designed for us. We can go in there and start cleaning. I’m looking forward to that.”

David said they expect to get their keys to the space in February, after which it should take about 60 days to build it all out. He also added that Skye will probably want him to get it done in 30 days.

“We’ll have a little race,” she said. “When I file for the permit, can I get the alcohol permit before you get the construction done.”

Tractor has been seeking a location west of the Rio Grande for three years, David said. They have been waiting on that spot for about 18 months.

“We’ve been looking at potential spots (for longer), figuring how is it zoned, how is the exposure, how many square feet do you want,” Skye said. “All the things that go into it. I’m fairly content this will be our last Albuquerque taproom. … I don’t see us having a geographic need for something else in the city limits.”

Tractor also has a wine growers license, so technically it could still open another three off-site taprooms outside the city limits. That is something to file away for the future, but there is another big move coming to Wells Park.

“So, we’re getting our distillers license hopefully the first quarter of next year, so that’s exciting,” Skye said. “It’ll be here (at Wells Park), we’ll distill here, but then that gives us three distillers taprooms. We haven’t decided if we’ll put them with three of our current taprooms, probably not one in Nob Hill because they won’t let us sell package.”

David and the brew team will be in charge of that as well.

“We’ve been talking about it for a while,” he said. “I think it’s going to be fun to see what the customers expect from that, what we want to do. We don’t have some grand plan, it just makes sense us for to have a license because we do 60 percent of what a distiller does, so why not take advantage of the process we already have in place.”

Skye said she was excited to finally mark it off her to-do list, where it has sat since 2014, but was always placed on the back burner due to more pressing matters coming first. As to what exactly Tractor will end up distilling, that remains to be seen.

“Distilling, we can distill anything,” David said. “We can distill wine. Then blend those things. It’s going to be a whole new frontier. We’re excited about that.”

As for the rest of the brew team, they will remain a busy group.

“In the brewery, (head brewer) Josh (Campbell) is doing a whole lot more on his shoulders,” David said. “It’s preparing for me to be in more of a position to do construction and move the company forward in our current environment with all of our competitors, spend more time kicking ideas around with Skye.”

David said another brewer on staff has also stepped up.

“Peter (Moore), who joined us last year, is pretty talented, so we’re going to hand him some recipe formulation stuff, along with Josh,” he added. “Those guys are doing a great job.”

More barrel-aged beers are a good thing.

There will be plenty of new beers coming out in 2018, plus one popular series of beers that will continue.

“I hate to talk about stuff until it’s had a successful fermentation,” David said. “We’re doing our first pecan beer. That’s in the fermenter. We’re going to do our first winter spiced cider. That comes out very soon.

“What else have we got? We’ve got the whole Three-Two series, inspired by Skye. What’s cool about that is we’re pretty deep on session beers these days. She took it to the next level. The cool twist that she put on that, because my opposition was always the price, so we’re going to make those always available at $3.25. We’re going to have a few of those on.”

Skye said there are plans to do a lower alcohol version of Turkey Drool (7.2% ABV) that would be sold in cans outside the Albuquerque market, though David noted those are not set in stone and Josh would have the final approval as TD is his recipe (and a Crew favorite).

There will be specialty can releases throughout the year again in 2018 for all markets.

“Things that we have going in cans next year for sure that are seasonal, beyond whatever we just decide we want to do (in the moment),” Skye said, “so this spring we’re going to do Thai Mint Basil Cider. Then for IPA Challenge we’re going to do Ghost Ranch IPA. For fall we’ll do a Pumpkin Spice Cider and then Turkey Drool again.”

David noted that with the constant change and evolution in the hops themselves, there could be more changes to beer recipes in 2018, even some of the lineup staples.

“The hops seem to be changing quite a bit these days,” he said. “We’re going to be playing around with some different recipes of a flagship beer that may evolve a little bit because we’ve noticed the hops are going left and we’re going right. There may be some things changing around with some beers.

“Hops have been the interesting stress of David Hargis’ life for 2017. A lot of things are going right, but those are a big challenge. Keeping the right amount, what is the expectation going forward.”

There won’t be any events this metal in 2018, at least not that we know of yet.

As for the events that are the lifeblood of Wells Park, expect plenty of popular ones to continue like Drag Queen Bingo, plus new and innovative events debuting as well.

“We’ve been trying out some new events,” Jeremy said. “I want to do some different things. It seems like everything we do anyways gets imitated. I’m just kidding. I just want to do some different things you don’t see at breweries.

“This year we did some live karaoke, molding that into something different. Also, maybe hopefully getting some arcade games in here full time. And then, working at just at different nights. We’re going to have a Lego night, a Lego building contest. We’re looking at working with other businesses.”

Jeremy is already deep into planning out all the events Tractor will host for ABQ Beer Week in May.

“Looking ahead to Beer Week, I feel like we had a successful Beer Week (in 2017),” he said. “We’d like to continue working with partners. We worked with Rowley Farmhouse Ales for sour hour. That was a really big hit.”

Tractor will even shake up the type of live music it hosts.

“Also, not just doing music by itself, because every place has music and has the same solo acoustic musicians,” Jeremy said. “We did a live (film) score this year (of The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari). I’ve never seen the taproom as quiet as it was then. Everyone was just 100 percent focused on it, it was really cool.”

Everyone at Tractor is certainly going to stay busy, so a huge thanks to Skye, David and Jeremy for taking some time out to chat. (And for the Turkey Drool, of course.)

Look for more entries in our Look Back/Look Ahead Series after Thanksgiving.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

Breweries are still left juggling pros and cons of having kitchens

Posted: November 6, 2017 by cjax33 in Brewery Issues
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The ups and downs of having a full kitchen, or not, continue to vex many local breweries.

A small news item crossed our desk today (Monday) when we found out that Turtle Mountain is adding new items to its food menu. This is something that happens all the time in the restaurant business, where the palates of diners and their interests ebb and flow, often unpredictably. While several of the dishes look like things we have to try (hello, Ruidoso Ribs), it got us thinking again about the ongoing issue of breweries and food.

A few years back, the success of Marble and La Cumbre seemingly heralded the new model would be kitchen-free, relying instead on food trucks and neighboring restaurants. The brewpub was a dying breed, but a funny thing happened on the way to all of this happening. The brewpub did not die, it just had to be revamped and reborn, much like the restaurant industry as a whole (though that whole is far slower to adapt to change, as we see in the current decline in the national chains as more and more close here in ABQ and other parts of the country).

The most recent trend has seen breweries that previously had little or no food expanding to full kitchens. Bosque just had a few appetizers and panini-press sandwiches, until the decision was made to go the full kitchen route. The opening of the second, larger Las Cruces taproom saw the arrival of a full kitchen down south, while Nob Hill has recently expanded into the old Wise Pies space so it can also have a full kitchen, much like the original San Mateo location (and that full kitchen will head to the new mothership location being built along the Interstate 25 frontage road).

Boxing Bear expanded its kitchen and menu, while Tractor added a small food menu to its new Four Hills taproom. Now comes the word that Tractor will turn the old merchandise nook at Wells Park into a small food area as well (if you went to the Stranger Things Arcade Carnival before Halloween, you saw a preview of this).

Rio Bravo had long ago kept a space for a future kitchen, located just on the south side of the main bar area. After struggling with food trucks (more on that below) for a while, the decision was finally made to essentially outsource the in-house food production to The Burger Stand, which already had locations in Taos and Santa Fe.

As more new breweries seek to open, most, if not all, are advertising that they will indeed have in-house food. The most recent new brewery to open, Bombs Away Beer Company, did not open with any food, but its owner already mentioned that he has a space set aside for what seems like an inevitable addition of a small food prep area.

The need for in-house food is seemingly being driven by two things. First, the consumer demand is there. Second, the food truck situation in town has been slipping, from what a number of brewery owners have told us. Many of the best food trucks have either shut down or been so successful that they have been able to open brick-and-mortar restaurants. The best of what remain are now stretched thin across the metro area due to the proliferation of so many taprooms and breweries. While established, large breweries like La Cumbre, Marble, and Tractor are still able to keep the best of the best food trucks parked outside, other breweries have struggled immensely to fill out their schedules with reliable trucks.

Food is still a tricky thing for breweries. A kitchen, whether limited or full, adds another layer of inspections and regulations, many of them even tighter than what exists for beer production. Having food on site is no guarantee of increased business. It certainly did not save the Firkin Brewhouse or Albuquerque Brewing, or perhaps most prominently, Chama River. Even places with well-established reputations for having top-notch kitchens, like Nexus and Turtle Mountain, are constantly having to adjust and adapt to the changing tastes of consumers. One could debate whether or not people are even pickier about food than beer, but it often seems that way around Albuquerque.

It can also be debated as to where the food-versus-no-food debate falls geographically. Desert Valley opened its West Side taproom with a full kitchen and has gone to great lengths to promote it as a food-first establishment. After initially opening the Nexus Silver taproom sans food, the decision was recently made to begin serving food there. It can be argued that food is almost necessary in areas with a denser neighborhood population, like Nob Hill or the Northeast Heights, as opposed to the more nightlife-oriented aspects of downtown, the Brewery District, and Wells Park (though things are changing at some of the breweries located in that district).

The issue can then become how customers view and treat brewpubs versus breweries. Reading the less-than-kind comments online for many brewpubs, they often seem to focus mainly on the food itself and the service, rather than the beer. Food seems to be more polarizing than beer, while the expectation of service is often higher in what many regard as more of a restaurant than bar setting. It often seems that for every benefit about having a kitchen, there is a significant drawback as well. Finding the balance in between is an ongoing challenge, with no easy answers.

What is the future of the brewpub model? Cantero Brewing is gambling that it will be of the popular farm-to-table variety, as the forthcoming brewery fights to overcome the fact it took over the old Firkin space, one of the least desirable physical locations for any brewery. The other newcomers will have to make up their own minds.

As always, we want to know what all of you think, so we designed a rather simple poll below. Add your comments here or on social media. The more the breweries know about what we want from them in terms of food is better for everyone involved.

Cheers!

— Stoutmeister

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