Tuesday Brews Day: New Belgium, 1554
We had a wet weekend here but boy did we need it. Then again it meant no mountain biking for the weekend which is always a bummer. The rain did stop for a little while, however, so I siezed the opportunity and jumped on the Night Owl. You know, carpe diem and all that. A nearby liquor store stocks some interesting beers so I headed down to pick up some football-watching fuel.
I see you in there!
New Belgium Brewery was started by a beer loving couple in Fort Collins, Colorado. Besides cranking out beer they’re most likely the greenest brewery in the US. In 1998 they converted their entire brewery to run off wind powered electricity! Even their building is designed to be environmentally friendly and uses sun tubes to light the warehouse. New Belgium is always active in the outdoor community too. Our own Jeff Rossini, from bike commuters, went to one of their events during the Tour De Fat. What’s not to like about a bike and eco friendly brewery?
1554 safe from the rain
The 1554 brew was created to model an old Belgian recipe that was traced back to, yup you guessed it, 1554. The bottle labels this as “Enlightened Black Ale” and it listed as a “Brussels Black Ale” on their site. Whatever it is, it’s delicious. Once you tip your glass back you’ll taste mild chocolate and a bit of roasted barley flavor. There’s a fizzy, soda-pop, bite to the drink but the finish is entirely clean. No bitterness here. The mouthfeel is light and smooth. If you’re not one for extra bitter or extra hoppy drinks you should give this one a try. Yes, it’s a dark lager, but it drinks like a beer 5 shades lighter.
Ready for the ride to work
I’m sure most of us have heard of New Belgium as they make bike jerseys and supply beer for many bike related happenings. As far as I’m concerned, that’s all the more reason to support them. I used to like their Fat Tire Ale but stopped after developing an affinity for darker brews. I’m sure glad they made the 1554. It brought me back around to a brewery that is, in my opinion, one of the best. I love it that a large company like this is environmentally concious and has actually taken steps to better their business and community. Oh ya, they make some good brew too!