Steve Koenemann

Made in Vermont – The Northeast Kingdom

This is the third in my series of four articles briefly highlighting each of the breweries that can be found in the small state of Vermont. We are truly blessed with an abundance of quality craft breweries , currently 21 of them, to be shared among the second smallest population of any of the 50 states. The combination of being able to reach any portion of this state from my house within two hours driving time (or so) and the large variety of breweries to choose from, creates for me a somewhat unique opportunity not shared by folks that live in much larger states; that being the ability to easily sample many of the fine beers brewed by all of these establishments fairly frequently.

My first article in this series – The Burlington Region – covered the seven breweries to be found in the northwestern portion of our state; those nearest our largest city, Burlington (pop. only 38,647 in 2009). The second article in the series – The Spine of the Green Mountains – focused on the north central portion of the state; in the region surrounding the capital city of Vermont, Montpelier, near where I live. In today’s article I will highlight the three breweries that can be found in the northeastern portion of the state; known to all Vermonters as “The Northeast Kingdom” or NEK. This “wild” and sparsely populated region of the state is not necessarily a “destination” for visitors coming in from out-of-state; unless you are a skier and are looking for the deep powder and long skiing season to be found at the Jay Peak ski area, which is located in the heart of the NEK.

Trout River Brewing – Located in tiny Lyndonville, VT and owned by Dan and Laura Gates, Trout River has been producing fine beer since 1996. Their beer is a common offering at many restaurants across the northern half of the state and a few of their beers are among my Vermont favorites. I am particularly fond of the two heavyweights in their lineup; Boneyard Barley Wine and Knight Slayer Imperial Stout.

The Vermont Beer Co. – Located in Bradford, VT and housed in The Perfect Pear Cafe, this is one of Vermont’s newest and definitely our smallest brewers. Beer here is produced in 10-gallon batches. I have been there twice, so far, but have only been able to sample their beer one of those times. Exhibiting some signs of an early startup operation, they offer only limited hours of operation (why I missed their beer the first time) and the brewer is also the head chef for the cafe, which leaves little time to try and keep all the “balls“ in the air at the same time. Food at the cafe was excellent, but I was only able to try their Devil’s Den Brown Porter because the tap for their IPA was not working that day. I was disappointed, since the hoppy beers tend to be my sweet spot and the porter was pretty good. I have heard rumors that the owner/chef/brewer has hired a chef to take over the kitchen, so that the brewing can be given its due. I look forward to returning soon to see the improvements that have been made since this last summer.

Jasper Murdocks Alehouse – Located in Norwich, VT and housed in The Norwich Inn, a historic property that traces its roots all the way back to 1797. This quaint establishment offers not only great beers, but also fine dining and excellent accommodations. Specializing in English-style ales, some of which are award winning recipes and only served on-site, I find that most of their beers to be quite “sessionable” and easy drinking. A particular favorite of mine, when I can get it, is their Old Slipperyskin IPA.  This establishment has become famous for offering events that combine some of the services that they offer. Most notable of these are their Brewers Weekends and Brewers Banquets. The Brewers Weekend, which I hope to participate in one day, offers two nights stay at the Inn, meals (including a Brewers Banquet) and an opportunity to get some hands-on instruction in beer making from their resident brewer. The Brewers Banquets are meals that highlight Jasper Murdock beers paired with specially prepared foods from their kitchen. Participation in one of these banquet events does not necessarily need to be in conjunction with a Brewers Weekend (less expensive that way) and are open to the paying public.

Well, there it is, short and sweet, the third article in my series highlighting 3 more of Vermont’s 21 brewers. The fourth and last article in this series will focus on the brewers found in the southern part of the state. For those of you that have not had the chance to visit our beautiful state, I encourage you to make that plan now. Vermont offers unmatched scenery in all four seasons and, in spite of our small size, there is plenty to do and see here throughout the year. I promise to save you some beer for when you arrive!

Courtesy of Vermont Brewers Association

Leave a Reply

Click here to cancel reply.

Username (required) :
Email (required) :
Web Site :
Comment :

CAPTCHA Code *