Monday, July 4, 2011

True Life: I Lived in a College Town


Manayunk: where dreams of hovering over the line of adulthood and college life are quickly squashed with the reality of Philadelphia wage tax. Fear not my beer brethren (and sistren), there is hope for this neighborhood of steadfast locals and college transients: Manayunk Brewing Company and Restaurant. One of the few independent brewing companies in the city of Philadelphia, the Brew Pub certainly emits a ray of light through the darkness while traversing for parking up and down the alleged two-way side streets.

If only those wandering, unseasonably clad students knew that the Brew Pub was only a few years older than they. Arising from the ashes of the former Krooks Mill, came Manayunk Brewing Company and Restaurant. Perfect for its collegiate and young professional frequents, the Brew Pub’s outdoor seating and live cover bands beautifully balance the eight libations that are always on tap while offering a fine dining experience in the adjoining other half. From Stouts and IPAs to Blondes and Wits, brewers hone in on flavor profiles. Freshly brewed and rarely aged, the Brew Pub pours its seasonal specialties and flagships before the keg can celebrate a calendar year of being. In the spirit of the 4th of July, the Brew Pub loves America and American hops. The Brew Pub’s lagers are heated with lots of hops, pils, munic, and caramunic malts to bring a distinct life for those who can sip these delights without making the Bitter Beer Face. Special THANK YOU to Doug Marchakitus, Head Brewer, for Manayunk Brewing Company and Restaurant. For more Brew Pub news, head to www.manayunkbrewery.com or follow them on Twitter at @ManayunkBrewery.

Featured Beer: Schuylkill Punch

Classification: Raspberry Lager

ABV: 6.0%

IBU: 14

Summary: Tart and sweet. Little extra labor for the fermenting and filtering systems by adding fruit puree of fresh black and red raspberries contribute to the color and distinct flavor and body. Perfect for covers of alt rock bands. No really, here is my friend Rosie’s Facebook status from just last night, “The band at Brew Pub is playing 311... Yeeeeah!”

As Hugh Hood said, “There is nothing better than a cold beer on a beautiful afternoon with nothing else to look forward to than more of the same.” Let’s raise a glass for a view over the water (even if it is the Schuylkill). Let’s raise a glass for one more playing of Wonderwall and Shout. Let’s raise a glass for Manayunk Brew Pub. Slainte!