This is the view into the hopback. After the boil, the hot wort pours through these "finishing" hops in route to the chiller and the fermenters, where yeast performs its magic.Yesterday, Dave and Jesse put the brewing equipment through the paces to make a yeast feeder batch, which means that there is yeast multiplying in each of the four fermenters. Today, they brewed a 15-barrel batch of Beak's Best. Tomorrow comes Elector, and on Friday and Saturday there'll be Hoptimus. Bob's Old 15-B Porter follows on Sunday, at which point the fermenters will be full, nature's way will be in full swing, and the crew will decamp to Wisconsin next week for the annual Great Taste of the Midwest. With several intermediate steps yet to come, during the week of the 10th there'll be beer for shipping to the wholesalers.
It's relief to the max. Thanks to every one for waiting so patiently.
Photo credit: Jesse Williams.
I'm happy for you, happy for the NABC family, happy for the city, and happy for all the people who'll get regular access to fine beers crafted with pride and skill.
ReplyDeleteWell done, ladies and gentlemen, very well done.
Clap. Clap. Clap. Clap. Etc. I'm smiling from ear to ear.
ReplyDeleteTake that, envious ones. And realistically, this is happening earlier than imagined. Think of all the ways this could have been delayed and rejoice. Don't lament the ways it was delayed.
We need a photo op of you and the extended gang - taking a big bite of the apple.
It's been about 74 years since beer has been brewed downtown. History has been made. That's something to drink to.
ReplyDeleteSALUTE!!!
ReplyDeleteI was going to ask the question of how long it's been since the last working brewery downtown stopped. Thanks for telling us, Ted.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations are definitely in order. Good going, Roger and crew.
What a great time to be a New Albanian.
ReplyDeleteWoo hoo!! This is fabulous news indeed. Oustanding job everyone and much congrats!
ReplyDeleteI made sure to give myself a nice pat on the back after this. I worked so hard for this moment.
ReplyDelete[Initiate slow-motion pan from feet to upper torso, with me saluting American flag and single tear dropping from face.]
Honestly, though, that's awesome. Now, since Bank Street Brewhouse has been described to me, and I believe advertised by you, as a Belgian-style restaurant, can you get a techno/house DJ and stay open until the sun rises?
Because that's how I remember the cafes in Leuven, Belgium, operating on the Oude Market.
That's a brilliant idea, Evan. The only problem is the archaic blue law prohibiting beer sales after 3:00 a.m.
ReplyDelete