Bel Air MD - The Beer Thrillers

AleCraft Brewery in Bel Air to Close

B. Kline — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 20:15:30 +0000

AleCraft Brewery in Bel Air to Close.

AleCraft Brewery in Bel Air to Close

On Thursday, February 29th, it will be the AleCraft Brewery’s last day in their Bel Air, MD location. They made their announcement just a bit ago that they will be closing their Bel Air location. Their new location in Railroad, Pennsylvania will continue to be open however.

No word yet on what the plans hold for anything with regards to movement, product, etc.

The Announcement

We are sad to announce our closing, scheduled for Thursday February 29. We’ve had a great 6 years meeting new friends, hosting home brew lessons and fundraisers, sampling beers from local brewers, getting and giving beer advice, partnering with local businesses like Birds Nest BBQ for great food and Oodles Cheesecakes for beer pairings, teaching brew lessons on hops, water and off flavors with the local homebrew club and a million other memories. But our time here in Harford County is at an end. We hope you don’t become strangers and come to visit us in Railroad PA. Please stop in to say goodbye (for now) over the next 10 days. Mug Clubbers can pick up their mugs anytime before we close. Thanks again.

AleCraft Brewery – Bel Air – Facebook Post

AleCraft Brewery

We got to visit them a while back and absolutely loved the cozy Bel Air spot. They also performed very well in the 2023 Battle of the Breweries, making it to the Final Four match-up and losing to Allusion Brewing Company. They won the Saaz Conference.

We haven’t gotten to the Railroad, PA location yet (on the docket for 2024), but we know they will certainly be missed in Bel Air. Its a shame to be seeing these wonderful breweries and locations closing. Hopefully 2024 turns around for most breweries, but the year is looking rough already.

Past Articles on AleCraft Brewery

AleCraft Brewing Company Expanding into Pennsylvania
Beer Review: Ned Flanders Red (AleCraft Brewery)
Visiting Bel Air Maryland – AleCraft Brewing Company and Independent Brewing

More Information on AleCraft Brewery

The following is from Untappd: AleCraft Brewing Company is a micro brewery from Bel Air, Maryland. They have 262 unique beers with over 22,000 ratings. With a global average rating of 3.73 (as of 2.18.24).

Their Untappd description reads: July 2019 UPDATE: Alecraft was voted Best Maryland Brewery by Zymurgy Magazine! Thank you to all of our homebrewers! In the fall of 2017 we made the leap to add a brewery and taproom to our homebrew supply shop. Our small system and fully stocked home brew shop give us an enormous library of ingredients at our fingertips. Our beer is crafted to be exactly what we intended: no compromises on ingredients. The access to the shop ensures we have the full creative expression we dreamed of as home brewers. In our taproom we prioritize customer service second only to the quality of beer we produce. Our staff is engaging, approachable and trained on the various styles of beer we produce. AleCraft is what happens when the right people with complementary skills come together to strive towards their dream. Our story is the ideal fusion of passion, experience, fate and hard work while searching for beer perfection across all styles.

For more information on AleCraft Brewing Company, check out their social media pages:

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Unveiling the Spectrum: Amber Ale vs. Red Ale – Exploring the Fine Line of Craft Beer

B. Kline — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 18:52:33 +0000

Nugget Nectar by Troegs Independent Brewing is an Imperial Amber Ale

Unveiling the Spectrum: Amber Ale vs. Red Ale – Exploring the Fine Line of Craft Beer

Craft beer aficionados often find themselves enchanted by the diverse palette of flavors and aromas offered by different beer styles. Among these, Amber Ale and Red Ale stand out as two closely related yet distinct brews, each with its own unique characteristics. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to unravel the nuances that differentiate these beloved styles, delving into their histories, brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and more.

In the vibrant world of craft beer, the quest for the perfect pint can lead down many a hop-lined path. Among the myriad of styles that populate this effervescent landscape, Amber and Red Ales stand out for their rich colors, complex flavors, and the sometimes blurry line that divides them. This article will delve into the depths of these beloved brews, exploring their histories, characteristics, and what sets them apart in the eyes of brewers and beer aficionados alike.

A Colorful Beginning: The Origins of Amber and Red Ales

Amber and Red Ales share a common ancestry, rooted in the British brewing tradition. These beers originally evolved from the pale ales of England, gaining their distinctive colors and flavors from the use of caramel and roasted malts. As these styles crossed the Atlantic, American craft brewers embraced and adapted them, incorporating local ingredients and brewing techniques. This transatlantic journey gave rise to the distinct versions of Amber and Red Ales enjoyed today.

Both Amber Ale and Red Ale trace their origins back to the rich tapestry of brewing traditions, with roots entrenched in European heritage. Amber Ale finds its inspiration from English Bitter Ales, with a nod to American innovation in craft brewing. Red Ale, on the other hand, draws influence from Irish and Scottish brewing traditions, renowned for their malt-forward styles.

Amber Ales: A Study in Balance

Nugget Nectar by Troegs Independent Brewing is an Imperial Amber Ale

Amber Ales are celebrated for their equilibrium. Straddling the line between malt sweetness and hop bitterness, these ales showcase a medium body with a color that can range from light copper to a rich amber hue. The malt profile tends to offer flavors of biscuit, caramel, and toasty notes, balanced by a subtle hop presence that can range from earthy and floral to citrusy, depending on the hop varieties used.

American Amber Ales, in particular, are known for a more pronounced hop character, reflecting the American craft brewers’ penchant for hops. This style remains approachable, however, making it a favorite among craft beer newbies and connoisseurs alike.

On the East Coast, Nugget Nectar (and also Double Nugget Nectar) by Troegs Independent Brewing are possibly the best known examples of the Amber Ale style. The Untappd description for Nugget Nectar reads: “Squeeze those hops for all they’re worth and prepare to pucker up: Nugget Nectar Ale, will take hopheads to nirvana with a heady collection of Nugget, Warrior and Tomahawk hops. Starting with the same base ingredients of our flagship HopBack Amber Ale, Nugget Nectar intensifies the malt and hop flavors to create an explosive hop experience.”

And the Double Nugget Nectar Untappd description reads: “Let’s take Nugget and double it. Well, it wasn’t quite that easy, but it sure was a fun balancing act. To start, we boosted the Simcoe, and this complex hop’s notes of apricot, peach rings and bright citrus are the star of the show. Azacca enters the picture to add hints of juicy orchard fruit, and Munich malt brings a bready sweetness. To strike a balancing note, Columbus joins Nugget hops, grounding this limited release with a layer of dank pine.”

You can find our beer review of the Double Nugget Nectar here: Beer Review – Double Nugget Nectar (by Troegs Independent Brewing).

Red Ales: The Bold and the Beautiful

A homebrewed Irish Red Ale.

Red Ales, particularly the American versions, dial up the intensity with a bolder hop profile and a deeper red hue. The color of a Red Ale can vary from a deep amber to a rich ruby, a characteristic achieved through the use of specialty malts that also impart a more pronounced caramel sweetness and, sometimes, hints of dark fruits.

American Red Ales often feature a significant hop bitterness, with aromatic notes that can include pine, grapefruit, and tropical fruits. This style tends to be more robust and assertive than its Amber counterpart, offering a hearty malt foundation laced with a potent hop punch.

AleCraft Brewing out of Bel Air Maryland (and Railroad Pennsylvania) have a wonderful Red Ale, called: Ned Flanders Red Ale. “Red Diddly-Ho” Ale. You can read our beer review on it here: Beer Review – Ned Flanders Red Ale (AleCraft Brewing Company).

The Untappd description for the beer reads: “A tart and malty Flanders Red Ale brewed with Roeselare bacteria and Hallertau hops.”

The Fine Line: Differentiating Amber from Red

While Amber and Red Ales share a common lineage and overlapping flavor profiles, the distinction often boils down to intensity. Red Ales generally present a more vigorous hop bitterness and a deeper malt complexity than Amber Ales. Additionally, the visual difference is notable, with Red Ales displaying a more pronounced red or ruby color compared to the lighter, coppery tones of Amber Ales.

The boundary between these styles can be fluid, with some beers blurring the lines and sparking debate among enthusiasts. Ultimately, the distinction may hinge on the brewer’s intention and the sensory experience they aim to evoke.

The key differentiator between these two styles lies in their malt and grain bill. Amber Ale typically features a balanced blend of malt varieties, including pale, caramel, and sometimes a touch of roasted malt. This combination contributes to its amber hue and provides a nuanced sweetness with hints of biscuit and caramel.

Conversely, Red Ale places a greater emphasis on roasted malts, often incorporating specialty grains such as crystal or roasted barley. These malts impart a deeper reddish hue to the beer and lend it a richer, more pronounced caramel and toffee sweetness, with subtle notes of nuttiness or toastiness.

Hops and Bitterness

While both styles showcase malt-forward profiles, they diverge in their approach to hops and bitterness. Amber Ales typically exhibit a moderate hop presence, contributing to a well-balanced profile where malt sweetness is complemented by floral or earthy hop notes. This balance allows the malt character to shine while providing a refreshing bitterness to the finish.

In contrast, Red Ales tend to showcase a restrained hop profile, with bitterness taking a back seat to the malt complexity. The focus here is on highlighting the interplay between the rich malt sweetness and the subtle hop character, resulting in a smooth, approachable brew with a gentle bitterness that enhances rather than dominates the flavor experience.

Flavor Profile and Aromatics

When it comes to flavor and aroma, both styles offer a delightful array of sensory experiences. Amber Ales boast a malt-forward profile with caramel, toffee, and biscuit notes dominating the palate. Aromas of bread crust and toasted grains often accompany the sip, evoking images of freshly baked bread and cozy fireside evenings.

Red Ales, on the other hand, present a deeper, more intense flavor profile, with pronounced caramel and toffee sweetness intermingling with hints of dark fruit, roasted nuts, or chocolate. Aromatics may include notes of dried fruit, such as raisins or plums, along with a subtle earthiness or nuttiness that adds layers of complexity to the brew.

Food Pairings

Both Amber Ale and Red Ale lend themselves well to a wide range of culinary pairings, thanks to their versatile flavor profiles. Amber Ales are well-suited to classic pub fare such as burgers, BBQ ribs, or hearty stews, where their malt sweetness can complement the savory flavors of grilled meats or slow-cooked dishes.

Red Ales, with their richer malt profile and subtle complexities, pair beautifully with roasted meats, caramelized vegetables, or aged cheeses. The sweetness of the malt can offset the saltiness of cured meats or cheeses, while the nutty or toasty notes can enhance the flavors of roasted vegetables or hearty soups.

Tasting the Spectrum: A Craft Beer Adventure

Exploring the range between Amber and Red Ales offers a delicious journey through the craft beer spectrum. From the balanced, easy-drinking nature of Amber Ales to the bold, hop-forward character of Red Ales, there is a world of flavor to discover. Beer lovers are encouraged to taste these styles side by side, appreciating the subtle nuances and celebrating the diversity that makes the craft beer scene so exhilarating.

In the end, whether you find yourself leaning towards the harmonious blend of malt and hops in an Amber Ale or the robust intensity of a Red Ale, the adventure lies in the exploration. So, raise a glass to the craft of brewing and the endless pursuit of the perfect pint.

In the world of craft beer, Amber Ale and Red Ale stand as testament to the artistry and creativity of brewers, each offering a unique expression of flavor, aroma, and character. While they share commonalities in their malt-forward profiles, the subtle nuances that distinguish these styles make them a delight to explore and savor. Whether you find yourself drawn to the caramel sweetness of an Amber Ale or the rich complexity of a Red Ale, one thing is certain – both brews offer a journey of discovery for the discerning palate. Cheers to the brewers who continue to push the boundaries of flavor, and to the beer enthusiasts who revel in the diverse tapestry of craft beer!

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MAPS OF BREWERIES

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Beer Review: Ned Flanders Red (AleCraft Brewery)

B. Kline — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 17:59:00 +0000

Ned Flanders Red by AleCraft Brewery

AleCraft Brewery

Just a few days ago, on July 5th we drove down to Bel Air Maryland, an old hang out of mine when I was in high school. Back then, I was even nerdier than I am now (or… what I was into was just considered nerdier back then).

Myself, along with my friends Drew Scott and Rory Dibeler would travel down to Bel Air to play SW:CCG in tournaments ran by another of our friends – Tim Simon. For those interested – SW:CCG stands for “Star Wars Customizable Card Game”.

Yes. Like. I Said. NEEEEEEERRRRRRRRDSSS!

Ironically, this time I went down to do some drinking with Amy. (And yes, when we went down in the past, my buddies and I did some drinking. I recall one tournament where we took a tequila bottle and drank it while playing… needless to say I don’t think I won the tournament, nor do I remember how I even did in the tournament.)

This trip, which you can read here: “Bound for Bel Air – AleCraft Brewery and Independent Craft Brewing”.

So anyway, long story short – we came down to Bel Air Maryland to check out AleCraft Brewery and Independent Craft Brewing.

Grabbed a four pack of this – Ned Flanders Red – to take home. (How could I turn up the chance to grab a Simpsons themed beer to go?).

I made sure to take it with me to Ffej of July – 2022 – and share it with my buddies (Drew, Dave, Jason, Andy Parys, and several others). (You can check out our article about Ffej of July 2021 here.)

Beer Review

Beer: Ned Flanders Red
Brewery: AleCraft Brewery
Style: Sour – Flanders Red Ale
ABV: 4.8%
IBU: 8
Untappd Description: A tart and malty Flanders Red Ale brewed with Roeselare bacteria and Hallertau hops.

Ned Flanders Red by AleCraft Brewery is a fantastic Flanders-style red ale that will leave any beer enthusiast impressed. This beer is a work of art, showcasing the expertise and creativity of AleCraft Brewery in Bel Air, Maryland.

The beer’s appearance is captivating, with a deep ruby-red color that entices the senses. The aroma is equally alluring, with notes of caramel, dark fruit, and oak that make the mouth water.

This color is the result of the beer’s malted barley, which has been roasted to produce a deep color and rich flavor profile. The use of dark malts in the brewing process creates a beer that is visually striking and sets the stage for the complex flavors that follow. The hue of this beer is reminiscent of a fine red wine, inviting the drinker to savor the beer slowly and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its creation. Overall, the deep ruby-red color of Ned Flanders Red by AleCraft Brewery is an indication of the depth and complexity of the beer’s flavor profile and is sure to impress even the most discerning beer enthusiasts.

The aroma is complex and alluring, inviting the drinker to indulge in its delicious flavors. The beer’s scent is dominated by notes of dark fruit, including cherries, plums, and raisins, which blend together to create a sweet and fruity aroma. This fruity sweetness is balanced out by notes of oak, which give the beer a subtle earthiness and hint at the aging process that the beer underwent during production. The aroma is further enhanced by notes of caramel and toffee, which add a rich and indulgent sweetness to the beer.

Upon taking a deep breath, the drinker is immediately transported to the world of Flanders-style ales, with the beer’s aroma evoking images of cozy pubs and warm fires. The aroma is the perfect prelude to the beer’s rich and complex flavor profile, offering a tantalizing hint of the flavors that are to come. Overall, the aroma of Ned Flanders Red by AleCraft Brewery is a work of art in itself, showcasing the brewery’s expertise and dedication to creating a beer that is as delightful to smell as it is to drink.

Upon taking the first sip, the drinker is immediately captivated by the complex flavor profile. The beer offers a perfect balance between sweetness and sourness, with notes of cherries, plums, and other dark fruits creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

The mouthfeel is equally impressive, with a medium body and carbonation that offers a smooth drinking experience. The finish is long and lingers on the tongue, with the flavors continuing to develop as the beer warms.

The taste of the beer is a true delight for the taste buds, offering a complex and balanced flavor profile that is sure to impress any beer enthusiast. The beer is both sweet and sour, with a perfect balance between the two that is reminiscent of a fine red wine. The flavors of dark fruit, including cherries and plums, are the most prominent, adding a fruity sweetness to the beer that is perfectly complemented by the beer’s subtle earthiness, hints of oak, and notes of caramel and toffee. The sourness of the beer is also noteworthy, with a tanginess that is well-balanced and never overpowering. The flavors of the beer continue to develop as it warms, with the sweetness becoming more pronounced and the sourness fading into the background.

Its a complex and balanced flavor profile that offers a perfect combination of sweet and sour notes. The dark fruit flavors of cherries and plums provide a fruity sweetness that is complemented by the beer’s subtle earthiness, hints of oak, and notes of caramel and toffee. The sourness of the beer is well-balanced and never overpowering, adding a tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly. The flavors of the beer continue to evolve as it warms, with the sweetness becoming more pronounced and the sourness fading into the background. The result is a beer that is both delicious and memorable, showcasing the brewery’s expertise and dedication to creating a high-quality Flanders-style red ale.

Overall, Ned Flanders Red by AleCraft Brewery is a standout example of a Flanders-style red ale, brewed with care and attention to detail. Its rich, complex flavor profile, captivating aroma, and smooth mouthfeel make this beer a must-try for any beer connoisseur.

My Untappd Rating: ***.75
Global Average Untappd Rating: 3.80 (as of 7.11.22)

All of Our Nerd Content

Here’s all of our nerd content, served up best in one single place. Enjoy!

I know ya’ll here for the nerd reviews. So check out our other nerd reviews below:

Star Wars:

Lord of the Rings:

Rick and Morty:

Beer Review: Peace Among Worlds (Cushwa Brewing Company)

Space Balls:

Beer Review: Moon of Vega (Equilibrium Brewery)

Game of Thrones:

The Simpsons:

Beer Review: I Voted for Kodos (Second Sin Brewing Company)
Beer Review: I Voted for Kang (Second Sin Brewing Company)
Beer Review: Ned Flanders Red (AleCraft Brewery)

Back to the Future:

Beer Review: Back to Reality (Three 3s Brewing Co)

Scrooged:

Beer Review: Scrooge IPA (Iron Hill Brewing)

Groundhog Day:

A Christmas Story:

Pro Wrestling:

Soccer:

World Cup:

Phillies:

Drunk Phils Fans and Rotunda Brewing Company Collaborate Together on Jam the Batter sWheat Tart

Matrix:

Matrix Monday

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:

Beer Review: Terpenes in Time (BAREBottle Brewing Co)

HP Lovecraft / Cthulhu:

Beer Review: Azathoth (Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company)

Seinfeld:

Other:

Thank You For Reading

Cheers All!

-B. Kline

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