Iron Hill Brewery - The Beer Thrillers

The End of an Era for Three Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant Locations

B. Kline — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 22:22:06 +0000

Farewell Beer-Heads: The End of an Era for Three Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant Locations

Iron Hill has abruptly shuttered three of its brewpub locations — an unexpected shift in what was once a stable regional brand. While sixteen of its venues remain active for now, today’s announcement speaks to the larger challenges facing scaled brewpub chains in a changing marketplace.

What Just Happened

On September 10, 2025, Iron Hill revealed the closure of three distinct sites:

Newark, Delaware (147 E Main Street)
Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, PA (8400 Germantown Ave)
Voorhees, New Jersey (13107 Town Center Blvd)

The Voorhees Iron Hill location

According to the chain’s press release, the decision was made “as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to adapt to a changing business landscape while focusing on strengthening its long-term growth and success.”

The remaining 16 locations are still open — for now — but the tone of the announcement suggests a pivot rather than maintenance of status quo.

Why This Matters

For craft-beer lovers in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Iron Hill was more than a restaurant that brewed; it was a regional anchor. Founded in 1996 in Newark, DE, it held a reputation for blending scratch-kitchen fare with in-house beer, earning a string of medals at the Great American Beer Festival over more than two decades.

But the business model that served well when Craft Beer was still niche now confronts intense competition, rising overhead, and shifting consumer habits. As one Reddit commenter put it:

“They over-extended. A lot of these breweries think opening all these locations increases synergies… But once it tips, you’d be better off with a few locations that you have to turn people away at.”

And though the announcement didn’t use the words “bankruptcy” or “chain restructure” directly, the suddenness of the closures speaks volumes.

What’s Next (and What to Do)

If you frequented the shuttered venues, here are a few take-aways:

If you had gift cards, frequent-visitor punches or beer club credits at the closed sites, check with Iron Hill’s corporate office for redemption options.
Visit one of the still-open 16 locations to support the brand while it’s still around.
Follow developments closely: this may be the leading edge of a broader contraction, not just a localized correction.

And for those tracking this story, we at The Beer Thrillers will continue to watch for whether this is a “closing of chapters” or a harbinger of more closures. For context, you may want to revisit our earlier coverage of Iron Hill’s Phoenixville location shuttering, in “Iron Hill Brewery Closes Phoenixville Location, Marking End of an Era…”

Sixteen locations remain. They are (Center City, Exton, Huntingdon Valley, Maple Shade, Media, Newtown, North Wales, West Chester, Wilmington, Rehoboth Beach, Ardmore, Lancaster, Hershey, Lehigh Valley, Greenville, Columbia, Dunwoody) after the Sept. 10, 2025 closures.

Final Tap

When a regional brewpub chain like Iron Hill pulls the plug on multiple sites in one fell swoop, it sends waves. In the craft-beer universe, where place, community and memory matter, these closures are more than square footage—they’re social geography. Whether Iron Hill can recalibrate and survive with its remaining locations remains to be seen. But one thing’s certain: for the Newark, Chestnut Hill and Voorhees communities, something beloved has ended.

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Ranch City Brewing Grand Opening

B. Kline — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 19:42:13 +0000

Ranch City Brewing Grand Opening

Ranch City Brewing is gearing up for their Grand Opening this weekend, starting on Thursday – July 17th and running through Saturday July 19th. As we first posted about Ranch City Brewing opening (view: Ranch City Brewing to Bring Bold Brews and Artisan Fare to Easton’s Simon Silk Mill), Ranch City Brewing will be having their grand opening at the Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA this weekend.

And what a big weekend it is too! Berg Brewing is having their soft opening, Dauphin County is having their Dauphin County Brewfest at Fort Hunter, Selinsgrove is having their Selinsgrove Brewfest, and the Hoppy Valley Brewfest is also happening. We will be at Ffej of July and missing out on all of these other activities and events though.

And oh, I almost forgot, theres also the Summer Ale Fest at the Philadelphia Zoo this weekend as well!

Ranch City Grand Opening Facebook Announcement

Ranch City Brewing Grand Opening – July 17th through July 19th

Ranch City Brewing will be having their Grand Opening in Easton, PA – at the Simon Silk Mill – starting July 17th, 2025, and running through July 19th, 2025. The brewery is located at Simon Silk Mill, 1250 Simon Blvd., Easton.

Ranch City Brewing Opening Announcement Post

Ranch City Brewing took to social media to post the following:

Soft Opening:

We’re opening our doors for a special soft opening event designed to help us fine-tune the Ranch City Brewing experience before our official Grand Opening — and we’re inviting you to be part of it.

Grand Opening

Join us as we officially open our doors and tap into something special at Ranch City Brewing!

Come celebrate the big day with great beer, good vibes, and live music from 7–9 PM. We’ll have fresh pours flowing, food on deck, and plenty of space to gather with friends and family.

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, we’d love to raise a glass with you.

-Ranch City Brewing Company – Facebook Post

For More Information on Ranch City Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Ranch City Brewing is a micro brewery to be opened in Easton, PA. They currently have 5 unique beers, with just one single rating. There is no Untappd description.

You can follow them at these social media platforms:

Ranch City Brewing – Official Website
Ranch City Brewing – Facebook
Ranch City Brewing – Instagram
Ranch City Brewing – Untappd

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Interested in finding out about many other brewery openings, new locations, closings, movings, auctions, and in general brewery news? You can check out our links below:

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Ranch City Brewing to Bring Bold Brews and Artisan Fare to Easton’s Simon Silk Mill

B. Kline — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 14:36:53 +0000

Ranch City Brewing to Bring Bold Brews and Artisan Fare to Easton’s Simon Silk Mill

A fresh hop-forward adventure is heading to Northampton County this July as Ranch City Brewing prepares to open its doors at the revitalized Simon Silk Mill complex. The brewery will be located at Simon Silk Mill, 1250 Simon Blvd., Easton.

Set to launch with a soft opening in the second week of July and a tentative grand opening on Saturday, July 12, Ranch City Brewing promises to be more than just another taproom—it’s aiming to be Easton’s newest destination for beer lovers and foodies alike.

Occupying the former home of Böser Geist Brewing Co., which closed in 2023 after a seven-year run, Ranch City Brewing is the brainchild of six passionate entrepreneurs: AJ and Nikki Mitchell, Dan and Daneal O’Leary, and Kyle and Cynthia Randell. Together, they’re bringing experience, energy, and community spirit to the table.

“We’re building the kind of brewery we’d want to hang out at ourselves,” said co-owner AJ Mitchell. “Whether you’re out with friends catching the game, or on a date night looking for quality food and drinks, we’ve got something for you.”

Ranch City Brewing (photo courtesy of 69 News – WFMZ.com)

Craft Brews and Culinary Roots

At the heart of Ranch City’s beer program is Dan O’Leary, a seasoned brewer with over 15 years of experience, including stints at Blue Point Brewing, Port Jeff Brewing, and several Iron Hill Brewery locations. Dan will helm a 10-barrel brewhouse, producing a rotating lineup of styles from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, balanced lagers, and even hard seltzers.

Expect 24 taps pouring everything from house flagships to seasonal specialties and guest beers. Highlights include:

Quiet Man – a silky nitro Irish dry stout
Soft Saddle – a crisp cream ale
Schitzen Giggles – a playful German pilsner

In addition to beer, Ranch City will serve local wine, craft cocktails, and a curated bourbon selection with an emphasis on Pennsylvania distilleries.

Simon Silk Mill (the future home of Ranch City Brewing, and the former home of Boser Geist Brewing Company)

Elevated Pub Grub

Food is no afterthought here. With a chef who’s sharpened his knives in New York’s Little Italy for over two decades, Ranch City will serve an inspired menu that includes:

Artisan pizzas (personal and sharable)
Smash burgers on fresh-baked rolls
Cheesesteaks, chicken wings, hush puppies, bacon-wrapped shrimp
Twisted Tees favorites like loaded potato scoops and the “Dirty Dog” chili-cheese hot dog

As AJ puts it, “It’s all about high-quality, made-to-order food that pairs perfectly with beer.”

A Space That Blends City and Country

Ranch City Brewing – Interior of the brewery. (photo courtesy of 69 News – WFMZ.com)

The renovated interior stays true to its industrial roots while weaving in rustic-modern elements—think exposed brick, corrugated metal, graffiti murals, and pendant lights hanging from rope. With seating for around 150 patrons, the vibe strikes a balance between casual comfort and visual flair.

The name Ranch City reflects the team’s diverse backgrounds—some from cityscapes, others from rural and suburban roots—and speaks to the inclusive atmosphere they’re cultivating. As co-owner Nikki Mitchell explains: “We wanted a place where everyone feels at home.”

A New Chapter at the Silk Mill

Ranch City Brewing joins a growing community at Easton’s Simon Silk Mill, which already includes local hotspots like:

Seven Sirens’ The Blendery
Easton Wine Project
The Tipsy Crow
Owowcow Creamery
Spectracolor Coffee Roasters

With bold brews, inventive food, and a welcoming ambiance, Ranch City Brewing is set to become a key player in the Lehigh Valley beer scene.

For updates and opening day announcements, follow Ranch City Brewing on Facebook and Instagram.

(Photos and quotes courtesy of 69 News – WFMZ.com)

(See related article: Boser Geist Brewing Company Announces Closing.)

For More Information on Ranch City Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Ranch City Brewing is a micro brewery to be opened in Easton, PA. They currently have 5 unique beers, with just one single rating. There is no Untappd description.

You can follow them at these social media platforms:

Ranch City Brewing – Official Website
Ranch City Brewing – Facebook
Ranch City Brewing – Instagram
Ranch City Brewing – Untappd

Brewery News

Interested in finding out about many other brewery openings, new locations, closings, movings, auctions, and in general brewery news? You can check out our links below:

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server).

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Raise Your Glass at the Mount Hope Brewfest: A Craft Beer Extravaganza

B. Kline — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:13:21 +0000

Mount Hope Brewfest

Get ready to savor the finest craft beers amidst a lively atmosphere at the highly anticipated Mount Hope Brewfest. Located at the scenic Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim, Pennsylvania, this annual beer festival brings together beer enthusiasts, local breweries, and a vibrant community of craft beer lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates a good brew, the Mount Hope Brewfest is an event you won’t want to miss.

Discover an Array of Craft Beers

Brewers pouring for their guests

At the Mount Hope Brewfest, immerse yourself in a world of craft beer excellence. With a diverse lineup of breweries, both local and regional, this festival showcases an impressive selection of handcrafted brews. From hop-forward IPAs bursting with citrusy and piney flavors to smooth and rich stouts boasting notes of chocolate and coffee, each sip reveals the passion and creativity of the talented brewers. Take the opportunity to explore different beer styles, expand your palate, and find new favorites that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer crisp and refreshing lagers, fruity and aromatic ales, or complex and barrel-aged brews, the Mount Hope Brewfest has something to satisfy every beer lover’s cravings.

Embrace the Festive Atmosphere

Years ago at the one brewfest, I entered “the gladiator pits” at the Renaissance Faire. (Its a small circular fighting area, and the competition is three or four guys with balloons on their shoulders and head, and the winner is the last man standing with at least one balloon.) I fought Rob Myers, Justin Albright, and Aaron Delp.

The Mount Hope Brewfest is not just about the beer—it’s an experience that blends camaraderie, live music, and a lively ambiance. As you enter the festival grounds, the air buzzes with excitement and anticipation. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses fills the air, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere. Live music performances by talented local artists provide the perfect backdrop, adding to the overall festive vibe. The Mount Hope Brewfest is a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for craft beer, creating a sense of community that is both invigorating and heartwarming. As you mingle with fellow beer enthusiasts, share stories, and make new friends, you’ll find yourself immersed in a spirited atmosphere that celebrates the joy of craft beer.

Delight in Local Flavors

The Englewood Brewing Company at Mount Hope Brewfest

Pennsylvania is renowned for its thriving craft beer scene, and the Mount Hope Brewfest proudly showcases the best of what the state has to offer. Sample brews from local breweries, experience the distinct flavors that Pennsylvania brewers have perfected, and support the artisans who contribute to the state’s beer culture. From well-established breweries with a rich brewing heritage to up-and-coming gems pushing the boundaries of innovation, each pint tells a unique story. Discover the artistry and craftsmanship that go into each beer as you interact with passionate brewers eager to share their knowledge and creations. The Mount Hope Brewfest is an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate the local flavors that make Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene truly exceptional.

Savor the Pairings

A hot sauce vendor at the Mount Hope Brewfest

To complement the exceptional craft beers, the Mount Hope Brewfest features an array of food vendors offering delectable bites that perfectly accompany the brews. Indulge in mouthwatering fare ranging from savory snacks to gourmet treats, carefully selected to enhance your beer-tasting experience. Satisfy your cravings with juicy burgers, tangy barbecue, flavorful tacos, or even artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The food options are crafted to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The carefully curated food pairings elevate the flavors of the beers you’ll be enjoying, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Plan Your Visit

Mount Hope Brewfest June 10th, 2023

This year, the Mount Hope Brewfest is on June 10th, with two sessions: 11 AM – 3 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

To make the most of your Mount Hope Brewfest experience, it’s essential to plan ahead. Secure your tickets early, as this popular event tends to sell out quickly. Check the festival’s official website for the most up-to-date information on dates, participating breweries, ticket prices, and any additional activities or entertainment planned. Consider carpooling with friends or using public transportation to ensure a stress-free arrival, allowing everyone in your group to indulge in the festivities responsibly. Don’t forget to drink responsibly and arrange for a designated driver if needed, as the primary focus of the event is to celebrate and appreciate craft beer in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Please do not try and drive home (unless you are a designated driver) from the brewfest. You will be way (Waaaaaaay) too intoxicated to be able to drive. The police highly monitor the routes out of the brewfest knowing enough idiots try each year.

Groups are a great way to experience the brewfest

Some Participating Breweries

The following is some of the participating breweries from the past; this does not mean they will be at this year’s brewfest or the brewfests in the future.

Troegs Brewing Company: A standout participant at the Mount Hope Brewfest is Troegs Brewing Company. Hailing from Hershey, Pennsylvania, Troegs is renowned for their innovative and flavorful craft beers. With a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and a focus on sustainability, Troegs creates a diverse range of brews that cater to various palates. From their flagship HopBack Amber Ale, a balanced and hop-forward delight, to their bold and complex Troegenator Double Bock, their lineup showcases their brewing expertise. At the Mount Hope Brewfest, be sure to try their seasonal and limited-release offerings, as Troegs consistently surprises and delights with their unique and boundary-pushing creations.
Spring House Brewing Company: Another local gem that takes the stage at the Mount Hope Brewfest is Spring House Brewing Company. Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Spring House is known for their creative and whimsical approach to brewing. Their lineup features a range of beers, each with its own distinct personality and story. From their Big Gruesome Chocolate Peanut Butter Stout, a rich and decadent treat, to their refreshing and citrusy The Astounding She-Monster Mango IPA, Spring House never fails to deliver bold flavors. As you sample their brews, you’ll appreciate their dedication to quality ingredients and their ability to infuse each beer with character and charm.
St. Boniface Craft Brewing Company: Hailing from Ephrata, Pennsylvania, St. Boniface Craft Brewing Company brings their exceptional beers to the Mount Hope Brewfest. With a commitment to traditional brewing techniques and a focus on quality, St. Boniface produces beers that pay homage to classic styles while infusing them with their unique touch. Their Libation Belgian Tripel, with its fruity esters and spicy notes, showcases their mastery of Belgian-style ales, while their 3lb IPA exemplifies their skill in creating hop-forward brews bursting with citrus and pine flavors. Prepare to be impressed by their attention to detail and their ability to craft well-balanced and memorable beers.
Lancaster Brewing Company: Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Lancaster Brewing Company is known for their handcrafted ales and lagers. From their refreshing Strawberry Wheat beer to their robust and malty Milk Stout, they offer a diverse range of brews to suit different tastes.
Boneshire Brew Works: Boneshire Brew Works, located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a microbrewery that prides itself on producing creative and flavorful beers. Their rotating tap list often features experimental brews and unique flavor combinations, making them a must-visit for beer enthusiasts seeking something out of the ordinary.
Moo-Duck Brewery: Situated in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, Moo-Duck Brewery is known for their approachable and well-crafted beers. From their easy-drinking Pilsners to their rich and complex stouts, they strive to create beers that showcase quality ingredients and careful brewing techniques.
Collusion Tap Works: Collusion Tap Works, located in York, Pennsylvania, specializes in innovative and boundary-pushing brews. Their tap list features a wide variety of styles, from hazy IPAs to tart and fruity sour beers, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mad Chef Craft Brewing: Mad Chef Craft Brewing, based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania, prides itself on brewing unique and flavorful beers. Their lineup includes everything from classic styles to experimental brews, often showcasing their culinary-inspired approach to brewing.
Swashbuckler Brewing Company: Nestled within the Mount Hope Estate & Winery, Swashbuckler Brewing Company combines traditional German brewing methods with a touch of pirate-themed fun. They specialize in German-style lagers and ales, creating a memorable experience for beer lovers at the Mount Hope Brewfest.
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant: Iron Hill Brewery, with locations throughout Pennsylvania, brings their award-winning craft beers to the Mount Hope Brewfest. With a focus on brewing exceptional beers across various styles, Iron Hill offers a wide range of options to satisfy every beer lover’s palate.
Tattered Flag Brewery & Still Works: Located in Middletown, Pennsylvania, Tattered Flag Brewery & Still Works is a craft brewery and distillery that offers a wide selection of beers and spirits. Their diverse lineup features everything from hop-forward IPAs to barrel-aged stouts, providing a range of flavors to suit various preferences.
Zeroday Brewing Co.: Zeroday Brewing Co., situated in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their rotating tap list often includes experimental brews and limited releases, showcasing their dedication to pushing boundaries and creating unique flavor profiles.
Ever Grain Brewing Co.: Based in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, Ever Grain Brewing Co. is a family-friendly brewery that focuses on brewing high-quality craft beers. They specialize in a variety of beer styles, from crisp and refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich, malty ales.
Molly Pitcher Brewing Company: Molly Pitcher Brewing Company, located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is a beloved local brewery known for their handcrafted beers and warm hospitality. They pride themselves on brewing approachable yet flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of palates. From their light and crisp Kölsch to their robust and malty Scotch Ale, Molly Pitcher Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers that exemplify their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

These local breweries are just a taste of the vibrant craft beer scene that graces the Mount Hope Brewfest. As you explore the festival, don’t miss the opportunity to engage with these passionate brewers, learn about their brewing processes, and discover the stories behind their beers. Each brewery brings its own unique flavors, styles, and experiences to the table, enriching the festival with their creativity and expertise. So, raise your glass and toast to the exceptional craftsmanship and community spirit embodied by Troegs Brewing Company, Spring House Brewing Company, St. Boniface Craft Brewing Company, and the many other local breweries that make the Mount Hope Brewfest a true celebration of craft beer. Each brings their own unique flavors, brewing philosophies, and sense of community to the event, creating an exciting and diverse experience for attendees.

Renaissance Food

The Renaissance Faire at Mount Hope Winery and Estate has lots of different food options. The Mount Hope Brewfest does include free food (from the Renaissance Faire vendors; but not from outside parties). They usually have chicken tenders, hamburgers, Italian susage, po’bois, and much more. Here are some foods that the Rainaissance Faire has, and over various years they’ve also had during the brewfest itself:

Turkey Legs: A Renaissance Faire classic, turkey legs are a must-try delicacy. These succulent, slow-roasted legs of turkey are seasoned to perfection, resulting in tender meat with a flavorful and smoky taste. Sink your teeth into the juicy meat and savor the savory goodness that will transport you to a medieval feast.
Meat Pies: Discover the joy of savory meat pies, a staple of Renaissance-era cuisine. These handheld delights feature a flaky crust filled with a delicious combination of meats, vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices. From hearty steak and ale pies to chicken and mushroom variations, each bite is a burst of savory flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Giant Pretzels: Satisfy your cravings with a warm and freshly baked giant pretzel. These oversized treats boast a soft and chewy interior with a golden, slightly crunchy exterior. Sprinkled with coarse salt or served with a variety of dipping sauces, these pretzels are the perfect blend of salty and doughy goodness.
Scotch Eggs: Scotch eggs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Hard-boiled eggs are encased in a layer of savory sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and then deep-fried to perfection. The result is a delicious handheld treat with a crispy exterior and a rich, flavorful center that makes for a satisfying snack during your Renaissance adventure.
Sweet Treats: Indulge your sweet tooth with an array of delectable treats. From freshly baked pastries like apple turnovers and cinnamon rolls to creamy homemade fudge and caramel apples, the Renaissance Faire offers a cornucopia of desserts to delight your taste buds. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional favorites like mead-infused honey cakes or delicate rosewater-flavored shortbread cookies.

Whether you’re craving savory delights or sweet temptations, the Renaissance Faire has something to please every palate. As you explore the fairgrounds, be sure to immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the era, savoring the flavors of a time long past. From the aroma of roasted meats to the enticing scents of freshly baked goods, the food at the Renaissance Faire adds to the immersive experience, allowing you to truly indulge in the delights of a bygone era.

Mount Hope Brewfest Logo

Mount Hope Brewfest Past

Mount Hope Brewfest in the rain

In the years before COVID – 19 / coronavirus pandemic (2019 and earlier) the Mount Hope Brewfest was always held in May. Usually around the time of Mother’s Day. For the longest time one could assume that one would we get soaking wet going to the brewfest; the Mount Hope Brewfest had this ‘tendency’ to be the day of rain, and sometimes, very heavy rain. The forecast could say pure sun, and it could look sunny up until 4 PM and then suddenly the heavens would close up and the rain would pour.

When the brewfest returned in 2021 (they cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic), they moved the date back to June, and it has somewhat lifted the rain curse on the brewfest.

Unless the forecast looks absolutely perfect, I would still advise guests to bring a poncho (they are available for sale there as well).

Tasters

Mount Hope Brewfest Taster Glasses

When you arrive, you’ll be given a 5 oz taster glass. Protect this with your life. This is your way to sample all the delicious beers in the Mount Hope Brewfest. They are glass, and can easily break when dropped to the paved road and paver based areas that make up most of the brewfest course and layout.

If you do drop it – and it breaks – expect a big “OOOOOOOOOOOH” to go up from the crowd near you.

You are able to purchase a new taster glass at the Informationstress (Information + Mistress) near the entrance to where you entered the Mount Hope Brewfest. It will cost you 10$ to replace the glass, so like I said, hold onto these babies like they… are… well… your babies.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mount Hope Brewfest and Renaissance Faire offer a truly immersive and captivating experience for beer enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The festival brings together the best of both worlds, showcasing a wide selection of craft beers from local breweries while enveloping attendees in the enchanting atmosphere of a Renaissance-era fair. From the moment you step foot on the grounds, you are transported to a world of knights, maidens, and merriment.

The local breweries that participate in the Mount Hope Brewfest bring their unique flavors, brewing philosophies, and sense of community to the event. Each brewery offers a distinct lineup of beers, ranging from traditional styles to innovative and experimental brews. The opportunity to engage with the passionate brewers and learn about their craft adds an extra layer of appreciation and connection to the beers enjoyed throughout the festival.

But it’s not just the beer that makes the Mount Hope Brewfest and Renaissance Faire an unforgettable experience. The culinary offerings at the fairgrounds further enhance the journey back in time. From indulging in savory turkey legs and meat pies to treating your taste buds to giant pretzels and sweet confections, the food selection is a feast in itself. Every bite carries the essence of the Renaissance era, making you feel like a noble feasting at a grand banquet.

Beyond the libations and the culinary delights, the Mount Hope Brewfest and Renaissance Faire captivate attendees with a range of engaging activities and entertainment. From games and competitions that foster camaraderie among visitors to educational sessions and brewery tours that deepen your understanding of the brewing process, there’s never a dull moment at the festival. The lively atmosphere, filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of beer steins, adds to the sense of celebration and merriment.

In the end, the Mount Hope Brewfest and Renaissance Faire encapsulate the spirit of community, creativity, and appreciation for craft that defines the craft beer and Renaissance fair cultures. It’s an opportunity to not only enjoy exceptional brews and delicious food but also to immerse yourself in a world of history, tradition, and fantastical wonder. So, raise your tankard, savor the flavors, and revel in the magical experience that awaits you at the Mount Hope Brewfest and Renaissance Faire.

Thank You For Reading

Will you be attending the Mount Hope Brewfest this year? Drew and I will be at the 4:30 – 8:30 PM session. (I tend to prefer the later sessions, getting done being pretty good and buzzed and drunk at 3 PM, just means I gotta then keep day drinking or just crash early, so I prefer to do my crashing at bed time.

If you do go, let us know in the comments section! And after the brewfest let us know your thoughts on it. Did you like it? What were the best beers? Was it as good as last year’s – or better, or worse?

We (Drew and I) just survived the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival. We collected our thoughts into our seven favorite beers from that festival (last week). You can view that here:

Top 7 AC Brewfest Beers

Thanks For Reading Everyone! We appreciate all the support.

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including AC Beerfest recaps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

-B. Kline

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Multiple Beer Reviews: Brambleberry, Blueberry Yum Yum, Dutchboi, Bourbon Chocolate Stout (Iron Hill Brewing, Hershey)

BKline — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 14:35:00 +0000

Flight and a chicken sandwich at Iron Hill Brewery (in Hershey, Pennsylvania) (left to right: Brambleberry, Blueberry Yum Yum, Dutchboi, and Bourbon Chocolate Stout)

Out of work and waiting for my car to be fixed (dropping 515$ on new brakes, lines, etc), what to do… what to do…. Oh I know… go enjoy some great food and a flight of beers, because…. why not?

So thats exactly what I did. I found myself with two hours to kill, a good book in my hand, and an appetite for both food and beer. And in the Hershey area there is a lot of options to pick from while waiting out a car repair. Seeing as how its been a while since I had been in Iron Hill (other than picking up their release of the Black is Beautiful beer) I decided to stop in and try out a flight, since I was sure there’d be new beers I haven’t tried yet. And luckily there was. One of which was one I had been waiting to try – Dutchboi.

Firstly, as I’ve said many on times here on the blog, I am by no means a foodie, but I still would like to take the time to mention the food. It was extremely delicious. Out of all the things, at least with the COVID restrictions of requiring me to ‘have’ to buy food with my beer, at least its making me / letting me try some delicious foods at places like Iron Hill, or Troegs, or The Englewood, etc; where otherwise I would be just ordering my beers and skipping on the food entirely.

But, let me say, this chicken sandwich (and the fries) were absolutely delicious. Half of it filled me up, and I saved the other half for another night. Wonderful beer that went really well with my beers….

Which is why your here, so lets get to it and discuss my flight of beers!

Brambleberry by Iron Hill (Hershey)

Beer: Brambleberry
Brewery: Iron Hill (Hershey)
Style: Farmhouse Ale – Other
ABV: 4.6%
IBU: None
Untappd Description: (Blank)

Well, not a whole lot to go on with this, no description, the notes on the menu said it was a “farmhouse saison, slightly funky, slightly tart, but full of flavor”. And that was about it. So…. quick spoiler – this was sadly my least favorite of the flight. I was hoping for a berry flavored saison, but didn’t quite get that. This is what Wikipedia has to say about brambleberry (under the page heading of ‘Bramble’): “A bramble is any rough, tangled, prickly shrub, usually in the genus Rubus, which grows blackberries, raspberries, or dewberries.^[1] “Bramble” is also used to describe other prickly shrubs such as roses (Rosa species).^[1] Bramble or brambleberry sometimes refers to the blackberry fruit or products of its fruit, such as bramble jelly.^[2]

In British English, bramble usually refers to the common blackberry, Rubus fruticosus. R. fruticosus grows abundantly in all parts of the British Isles and harvesting the fruits in late summer and autumn is often considered a favourite pastime. An especially hardy plant, bramble bushes can also become a nuisance in gardens, sending down strong suckering roots amongst hedges and shrubs and being particularly resilient against pruning. Many consider R. fruticosus a weed due its tendency to grow in neglected areas and its sharp, tough thorns which can be hazardous to children and pets.^[3]” (Source: Bramble.)

This doesn’t seem to fit that mold too much. Color is what you typically see in a saison or tart sour. But not a fruited sour or anything like that. No black coloring or anything to resemble a blackberry; this looks exactly like your typical farmhouse or farmhouse ale or saison. Wheaty, light golden to yellow color. Small amount of head to it, but with a taster that’s nothing to truly discuss because by the time of pour and its brought over and with the smaller pour size, heads and foam can be definitively off from what would be a normal pour.

Smell has that farmhouse yeast smell, that tart, funky, ‘off’ to some people, ‘on’ to other people smell. It has a crisp nose to it that you can pick up on immediately. Not a whole lot else to say on the smell, there’s no berry, no fruit odors, just the wheat and yeast smell.

Taste is…. well… its crisp. It is smooth. But it has kind of a bite to it. A funky, weird, tart but not the normal farmhouse or saison tart, kind of an off tartness to it. Like a bad berry tart funkyness, but not fully that bad or off. Like some blueberry beers where it gets the funky blueberry rather than the fruity – tart blueberry, but not quite to that full level. It has a definitive lingering taste to this that isn’t pleasant but isn’t completely unpleasant, more or less just kind of ‘ugh’. Nothing is completely horrible about it, but nothing is completely great about it and bordering past the ‘good’ into a category of just ‘do not like’ due to the aftertaste and all around weird funkyness / tartness to it. I wouldn’t say its a bad beer or a poorly made one, but just off, and not my cup of tea or style so to speak. I do love Farmhouse Ales and Saisons though, so this was a bit disappointing because of that.

My Untappd Rating: ***
Global Untappd Rating: 3.69 (as of 8.25.20)

Blueberry Yum Yum by Iron Hill

(A Different picture than the above, apparently I only took the flight picture for the first two drinks)

Beer: Blueberry Yum Yum
Brewery: Iron Hill (Hershey)
Style: Sour – Fruited
ABV: 6.3%
IBU: 5
Untappd Description: This kettle sour uses blueberries, graham cracker pie crust, vanilla beans, and lactose to trick your taste buds into thinking you’re drinking a fresh pint of blueberry cobbler.

This was much better. Much, much, much better. Definitely enjoyed this one.

Color is spot on for a fruited sour, especially any heavy in one of the major berries (blueberry, raspberry, blackberry). It has that purplish beautiful glow, incandescent one might say. Light foamy head, nice bubbles, pop, almost like a champagne type pop to it.

The nose is wonderful, tart, blueberry, fruited sour smell. You know exactly what you are getting with this. A great finishing flourish of vanilla, some bread crumb, and a hint of something more, something earthy – ish, something more than just the fruit and vanilla but not bread. Hard to pinpoint on that, but it detracts nothing from the aroma or the beer.

This starts off fully vanilla and blueberry then tapers off into blueberry only real quick. It has the very heavy fruited sour vibes to it, which is perfect and just what I wanted out of this, especially after appearance and smell. The vanilla fades away quickly, and leaves you with the tart but not too overly funky blueberry, which is where this really shines through. Full blueberry flavor with just the hint of bread crumbs and vanilla at the end. If you like bright, full, tasty blueberry tartness, then this is exactly what you are looking for it. Not really funky, not the over ripe blueberry, but the ‘just right’ ‘ just ripe’ blueberry tartness that really brings out that wonderful flavor – that I know personally, I love, not sure about everyone else, but I prefer the ‘tart’ blueberry over the ‘funky’ blueberry. From talking to a lot of people, that seems to be the preferred, but I’m sure there’s some who enjoy the more ‘funky’ blueberry tastes than the ‘tart’ blueberry tastes. To each their own. But I certainly loved this brew and would highly recommend it to any sour or tart lovers.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.63 (as of 8.25.20)

Dutchboi by Iron Hill (Hershey)

Beer: Dutchboi
Brewery: Iron Hill (Hershey)
Style: Stout – Other
ABV: 7.5%
IBU: None
Untappd Description: One off cask aged stout. Cinnamon, vanilla, serano pepper

This was the one I was most looking forward to with my flight. I had seen the Facebook and Instagram posts with the whoopie pies being mashed in, so I was certainly intrigued. My Pennsy Dutch side of me was all kinds of intrigued.

Color is the stout maxim; dark, black, cold, like my soul and heart (ask around, they’ll tell you). Or, as my personal saying is – “black like Razor Ramon’s hair”. Take that as you will, and depending on your level of interest in Scott Hall or wrestling you’ll understand it. But, this looks like any other stout really. Black, light foam head, in a taster glass, could almost be beer or coffee or motor oil, who knows. (These are all just jokes and not knocks on the beer or stouts; they just don’t typically have too much variance in color.)

Aroma kicks things off and separates this from other stouts. Definite notes of ‘whoopie pie’ on this. Vanilla, cinnamon, bready, with hints of the oak cask system used. I didn’t really pick up any pepper. Once again, going back to Wikipedia, this is said about the serrano pepper: “The serrano pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a type of chili pepper that originated in the mountainous regions of the Mexican states of Puebla and Hidalgo.^[1] The name of the pepper is a reference to the mountains (sierras) of these regions.^[1]” (Source: Serrano Pepper) I didn’t really pick up any hint of heat or pepper or anything (either smell or taste, which we’ll get to in just a bit).

Taste is delicious on this. Its got all that dark heavy stout flavoring you love (if you love stouts) but its not too heavy and high ABV like some stouts (eyes up Weyerbacher). At 7.5% its in the same tier and level as Perpetual IPA by Troegs Brewing (7.9%). So this isn’t going to be killing you but will be leaving a good buzz (on a full pour). The oak cask comes off with this nice, lending it some darker notes, but it also has a slight airy, fluffy, creamyness perhaps the ‘whoopie pie’ part of it. There is a bit of the creamy vanilla that makes this smoother, but there is some bite, perhaps thats the pepper but I attributed it to the cinnamon. I don’t think any one flavor is overly powerful and overrides the other, more of a nice gentle blending that leaves this a very good and tasty stout. This would probably be better as a bottle, than a taster or even a can or crowler, with a good pour into a glass. But I certainly still enjoyed it.

My Untappd Rating: ***.75
Global Untappd Rating: 3.9 (as of 8.25.20)

Bourbon Chocolate Stout (Iron Hill)

This brings us to the final beer of the flight, and as it turns out, my favorite of the flight. (Perhaps a surprise, perhaps not a surprise. I was anticipating liking either the Dutchboi or the Blueberry Yum Yum more, but I’m also a big fan of bourbon stouts and heavy stouts too…. so I guess this wasn’t really a surprise in hindsight.)

Beer: Bourbon Chocolate Stout
Brewery: Iron Hill (Hershey)
Style: Stout – Imperial / Double
ABV: 10%
IBU: None
Untappd Description: (Blank)

It is interesting, looking over the Untappd reviews for this, it seems to jump from people giving it 1 cap reviews to four or five cap reviews, and not a whole lot of wiggle room on their reviews. Either a hate it or love it beer I suppose. Personally, I enjoyed it. Perhaps its not for everyone, perhaps its the very heavy bourbon notes, or the bitterness, I’m not sure, but we’ll get to all that.

As always, this looks, acts, and more importantly… again… looks… just like a duck —- err, I mean, a stout. Dark, black, velvety, creamy possibly looking, slight foam head. Black as the night.

Aroma is strong bourbon, light chocolate. You get a definite nose of bourbon right out the gate, and then you get some of the chocolate, some bready earthy tones, and a bit of a dark, rich, bitter smell that is probably the chocolate coming back through.

Taste is where its going to jump on people. Strong, very heavy strong, initial bourbon bite and very alcoholic taste right out of the gate. Like drinking a strong Weyerbacher barrel aged stout, this jumps right in at you and grabs you. Some might say its too strong, or too bourbon, or too alcohol, but I definitely enjoyed it. I think it tapers off pretty steadily after that initial sip (perhaps its just me getting used to it, not sure), but it leads off into the bittering of the chocolate, like baker’s chocolate, and this might be off putting to some people too. This isn’t a creamy Hershey’s like chocolate, this is more of the baker’s chocolate, bitter, but with that still characteristic chocolate taste. The bourbon flavor I think blends nicely with that bitterness, but that could possibly be ‘too much’ for some people. It does clock in at 10% and you certainly taste and can feel it, so it does have a strong, over powering feel and effect as well. Certainly more of a sipper than a guzzle or quick drink. And at a full glass that would be the best approach, especially with its 10%.

My Untappd Rating: ****.25
Global Untappd Rating: 3.51 (as of 8.25.20)

My flight and food at Iron Hill Brewery in Hershey, PA.

Welp, that was my delicious flight and food. Got the car back, and just a mere 515$. The upcoming days should be interesting, on Thursday (8.27.20) will be my 35th birthday (officially old / half my lifetime / mid-life crisis / one foot in the grave / gaining speed down the hill) and me and my buddy will be heading out to West Reading / Wyomissing / Reading area to hit a few breweries. So look for that in a future post. You can read about it a bit here: “Visiting Reading.“

Saturday I will be attending The Englewood’s beer release, they are finally having their own beers on tap, and will be checking that out. So be on the look out for a review of their beers (most likely in a multiple beer review like this). I was out there before on the day they opened, which you can read here: “A Taste of Englewood“.

You can read a past beer review of Scrooge IPA by Iron Hill if you are still in the mood to read about Iron Hill Brewery and their beers in Hershey PA.

As always, lots of good stuff coming here to the blog, so be sure to like, follow, subscribe, and do all that fun stuff so you can read all about whats going on!

Cheers and see ya all at some point soon!

-B. Kline

Beer Review: Scrooge IPA (Iron Hill Brewery)

BKline — Wed, 25 Dec 2019 02:40:16 +0000

Scrooge IPA by Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant

The Holidays are a time for fun, merriment, joy, mirth, family, friends, and…. to the Beer Thrillers; just as importantly – beer. So starting right off, on this day in between days – Christmas Eve – let us here at The Beer Thrillers say Happy Holidays. December 23rd kicks off one of my favorite holidays – Festivus. Just type Festivus into Google and find yourself fully immersed in it, with the pole running up the left hand side, a bevy of Seinfeld quotes, and all the wonders therein lies.

Cosmo Kramer wishes you a Happy Festivus

For those not in the know, or not fans of Seinfeld (which coincidentally celebrated its 30th anniversary of its season 1 this year…. shows how old I am now!), Festivus was a holiday made up by George Castanza’s dad. The original Festivus aired on The Strike episode back in 1997, and was immediately one of the most beloved episodes, and ever since it has gone on to become practically its own cult following, even by those who aren’t fans of Seinfeld or even watched it.

A Festivus infographic

Its a holiday that eludes commercialism, instead of a Christmas tree you have a Festivus pole, just a bland aluminum pole with no glitz or glitter or glamour.

The biggest traditions of Festivus is the “Airing of Grievances” and the “Feats of Strength” followed by a Festivus dinner and possibly Festivus miracles! The Airing of Grievances is when you get to tell those, all of those, around you all of your grievances against them… that you’ve kept bottled up since last Festivus. And now you can finally tell them whats what and let them know how you truly feel. Following this is the Feats of Strength, where people get to call out other people and wrestle to see who is victorious. It is often a chance for fathers to compete against their sons.

The Origins of Festivus

So my Festivus miracle for you is a new beer review on Christmas Eve! Having done my due duty of work (and even some overtime) come home to write this blog about one of the beers I had the following night at Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant in downtown Hershey.

A perfectly apropos name for this time of year – Scrooged IPA was one of the several beers I tried at the brewery / restaurant.

Scrooged IPA by Iron Hill

Beer: Scrooged IPA
Brewery: Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant (Hershey, Pennsylvania)
Style: IPA – American
ABV: 6.2%
IBU: 60
Untappd Write-Up: American-style IPA brewed with a generous amount of hops for a pronounced hop flavor and bitterness that matches the beer’s namesake.

Bill Murray in Scrooged

What a good beer name for Festivus and Christmas Eve. We all know some scrooges in our lives; bitter, angry, upset at the world folks, not unlike a very bitter and piney IPA – am-I-right?

What a wonderful segue into the beer review huh? Ahh, this is how writers write. I feel like Hemmingway would be so proud. So to keep him proud, lets keep it quick and to the point and discuss this bitter IPA.

Bill Murray from Scrooged

Appearance is light yellow, clear, normal IPA beer coloring. This foam head, nothing crazy there, and not a whole lot of lacing from this either. This is what exactly its supposed to – a beer, specifically an IPA. Can never fault a beer when it looks exactly like what its supposed to.

Aroma is piney and earthy hops. You can smell that this is a full on old school, West Coast style IPA. It has a pine and bit of citrus smell, it has an earthy undertone, that you can just tell is going to be bitter and nothing like New England IPAs with their lactose and everything.

From first sip you definitely get that – all of that hop and West Coast IPA style – right upfront. You get west coast IPA beer taste immediately, old school IPA, with the bitter hops and the full flavor of pine, citrus, and bitterness. This does its namesake proud with the bittering but not to the point of being a hop bomb or too much and taking away from the beer. You still get notes of citrus, orange rinds, coriander a bit, but lots of pine notes and an earth undertone to it. There is no doubt as you drink this that its anything but an IPA and especially a west coast style. It fits the style perfectly. Its ABV is low, at 6.2% so its not going to hit you too strong, and the IBU is a good solid 60 so you certainly feel those hops at work on this one.

Now, I don’t know if anyone cares about Untappd ratings or not…

Bill Murray acting it up in Scrooged

Oh… ok, since you care, let me tell you.

My Untappd Rating: ***.25
Global Untappd Rating: 3.68 (as of 12.24.19)

For those of you unfamiliar with the GIFs they come from the movie Scrooged (1988) starring Bill Murray. A retelling of A Christmas Carol. Its certainly a classic, and one of the many movies that Drew and Esteban and co discuss on their Christmas movies podcast. Which you can listen here: WTF Did I Just Watch: Christmas Movies.

Hopefully you enjoyed this ‘interesting’ beer review, filled with pictures of Festivus and gifs of Scrooged. Given the name of the beer when I was out at Iron Hill I knew I had to do a beer review on the blog here of it, and knew I had to incorporate the elements of the Holidays. Perhaps in the future this will become a regular feature where at the various holidays I review holiday themed beer and give some thoughts and reviews on it. Who knows, hopefully they’ll be many (many, many, many, many, many) more Christmas’s here at The Beer Thrillers blog for many reviews to come. Fingers crossed. As long as you all keep liking and reading the blog, I’ll keep posting to it.

You can expect a slew of Tree House beer reviews in the coming days. First up will be Sap which I’ll be having at Christmas dinner. After that, I have Doppleganger, Haze, Julius, and Autumn to enjoy and review. These all come courtesy of Dan Arndt who along with his fiance was up north and brought them back down to me. So major kudos and thank you’s go his way.

As always, if you enjoyed this beer review, make sure to check out some of our other recent reviews: The Hog by Boneshire Brew Works, My Watch Has Ended by Brewery Ommegang, Ice Dreamz by Pizza Boy, and a beer flight of scratches by Troegs Brewing; also check out J. Doncevic’s reviews of Colonization by Adroit Theory, and Envie by Parish Brewing, and check out our contributor Let Us Drink Beer’s review of Koki Bunni.

At this time of the year, we here at The Beer Thrillers wish all of our readers a very Happy and Hoppy Holidays. Be it Festivus, Hanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, The Festival of Lights, or any other way you enjoy celebrating with friends and family, we wish you the very best. May your 2019 end happily and your 2020 begin even better!

Cheers!

-B. Kline

The Scrooged IPA by Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant from Hershey Pennsylvania