The next stop on our agenda was the Sam Adams Brewhouse. Located upstairs
in an old building off a secluded side street, the cozy, informal
atmosphere here was a stark contrast to Dock Street's modern, elegant air.
Old breweriana decorate the walls here, and the brewing equipment sits in
plain view, encased in glass rather than behind it. This is an extract
brewhouse, but this doesn't affect the quality of the beers. The beers,
while not the best brewpub fare I have yet imbibed, were certainly not the
worst. Brew House Tart was a real
treat, described as an "American take on the sour ales of Rodenbach". Aged
in oak casks, the beer was pleasantly sour and reminiscent of Rodenbach
Grand Cru. The only flaw I found in this beer was a slightly distracting
whiskey-like note in the finish, but the beer overall was highly enjoyable
and a good take on the style.
Among the pleasant surprises here were the
bargain prices, a sampler of six beers, a 22oz IPA, and a soda for my wife
came to a grand total of $6.25, even more of a bargain when one considers
the good-sized sample of 95 Tripel Bock the bartender placed in front of me
when I inquired about the cask of it on the bar.
And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.
*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For
reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.
(B)=Bottled
(D)=Draft