This week I had the opportunity to check out a new brewery in the historic town of Mount Holly. Did you know that the Quakers established Mount Holly in 1677 and incorporated it in 1688? It was actually the temporary capitol of New Jersey during the American Revolution. Today it may be better known as the home of three breweries, two winery tasting rooms, and a distillery. Depending on your love of history or alcoholic beverages, I’ll let you judge which is the more important reference. Accompanied by my partner in crime, we visited the newest brewery there. Stratosphere Brewing Company opened on Saint Patrick’s Day. They are now open Thursdays through Sundays. My wife and I chose a quiet Thursday afternoon, right after their opening at 3:00. While there is parking in the rear of the building, it is an interesting challenge finding it for the first time. The entrance to the brewery is not immediately clear. But don’t let that deter you. Once you reach an opened door and look in, you realize you are about to enter an interesting new spot to have a brew.
One of the walls inside is adorned with a a great display of skateboards like those pictured below.
As is our custom, my wife and I shared two samplers of beers on tap so I’d get a chance to taste as many as possible. I even got to try a couple of new styles (more on these below). Continuing to learn new things about beverages is something I really enjoy. I consider this a fun part of my commitment to lifelong learning.
Sampler #1
- Glockner Vienna Lager(ABV=5.2%)-An excellent Vienna Lager and one of my favorites in our tasting.
- Pseudo Gravity Pilsener (ABV=5.2%)-A better than average pilsener, with a bit more malt and taste than many.
- Barometer Fruit IPA (ABV=6.7%)-A little too fruity for me.
- Lhotse Cream Ale (ABV=5.6%)-A good easy drinking brew.
Sampler #2
- Tropical Depression NE/Hazy DIPA (New England Double IPA; ABV=6.4%)-Enjoyable DIPA, not over-the-top hoppy.
- Toad Strangler Hazy Pale Ale (ABV=6.4%)-
- Initial Descent Grisette-I learned that a grisette is a Belgian-style farmhouse ale. None to compare it with, but I liked it.
- Half & Half Shandy (I knew that a shandy is lemonade mixed with virtually any offering on tap, but I never tried one of these before. I took mine with their Tropical Depression (perhaps too much fruit flavor for my taste, but glad I finally got to try a shandy.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable tasting, especially considering this was only their third week of operation. My only disappointment was the absence of a Stout or Porter or any dark brews. I had read that Stratosphere Brewing had a great Stout for Saint Patrick’s Day, but that was long gone. However, the owner stated that they should have a Porter on draft for the weekend, so as I type these words, folks may be enjoying that one right now.
The website is still being constructed, but you can learn a little more about Stratosphere Brewing Company here: stratospherebrewingcompany.com
My New Jersey Wine of the Week
My choice for New Jersey wine of the week this week is the Hawk Haven Vineyards 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Rose. It is as delicious as it is beautiful and paired very well with our traditional Easter Ham dinner. Made with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this Rose is bone dry with hints of raspberry and vanilla.
Thank you to those of you who have been following my adventures around the state, sharing what I’ve heard (and drunk) through the grapevines; the hoppyness from our breweries; and good spirits from our distilleries.
Cheers!
Coming Attractions
- Old York Cellars Spring 2023
- Va La Vineyards
- Striped Lion Distillery
- My NJ Wine of the Week
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