Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Steer Me! Car Reviews -- Part One

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland is one of the stunners we reviewed this year!
(Photo courtesy of Jeep.)

Here are some of the most impressive vehicles that we reviewed so far at the midpoint of 2019.


While traveling and exploring cities throughout especially the US, finding the right automobile to fit all your needs can be cumbersome especially with all the new, high-tech features they can provide, safety features, stunning looks, and value. Well since I review cars alongside the team of other Steer Me! journalists who have a fondness for automobiles, we want to share a few of the standouts so far this year. Here is Part One of the series covering everything from trucks, to SUVs, hatchbacks, and sedans you should consider.
(All photos are courtesy of automakers.)

 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland 4x4
 
The Rubicon is also available.
With the newest luxury SUVs, stocked sports vehicles, and sleek sedans doing their best to be eye candy, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator has turned the same amount of heads—if not more—while navigating through the streets and highways of Atlanta. And for good reason. The Jeep brand is one of the most popular especially among millennials and the adventurous lately, and this highly anticipated revamp took almost 30 years to answer the prayers of its pickup enhancement to return. Our review model, the Gladiator Overland 4x4, was a stunner upon site, maintaining the welcomed boxy, rugged Wrangler frame dressed in a black clear coat; the 18-inch Granite Crystal Aluminum Wheels, Premium LED Lighting package, exclusive convertible capability, and yes, 5-foot cargo bed stocked with a 115-volt AC outlet, further warranted the stargazing.
Its 3.6-liter V8, 24-valve heart and 8-speed automatic transmission with Selec-Speed Control is complemented by electronically enhanced Trailer Sway, Stability, and Roll Mitigation controls which come standard to justify the “Overland” moniker. The cabin is cozy with a more roomy back seat compared to competitors, numerous safety features, and the latest in connectivity, plus there are a plethora of options including Cold Weather Group (heated seats, steering wheel, remote start), and Premium Audio Group (8.4-inch display, Alpine audio system, GPS) to further pamper all passengers. The Trailer Tow Package (boasting a class-leading 7,650-pound towing capability) and Jeep Active Safety Group (rear park-assist, blind-spot detection, forward collision warning) come highly recommended as well.
All in all, the Gladiator has successfully rewarded all the loyalists who patiently awaited its return. -- A.S.
Please visit Jeep.com for more information.


2019 BMW X4 xDrive 30I
The BMW X4 turned heads about as well as it turned curves along the Atlanta streets with its dark graphite metallic exterior and chrome 20” Runflat Tires. The xDrive 30I version came equipped with a panoramic moonroof, a rear view camera with a full surround 3D view to ease the tension when backing out of a parking space and Apple CarPlay compatibility with enhanced USB and Bluetooth along with its own Wi-Fi Hotspot. This truly is the ultimate driving machine, as their tagline states. If you are going to own this luxurious vehicle, getting the Premium Package is a must with heated steering wheel, heated seats, and the ability to control the radio with a gesture using your index finger in a circular motion to turn the radio up and down. Great on gas at 25 MPG city/highway, gives you one less thing to worry about when you are driving around. Thumbs way up! – Andrea Janise
Price: $61,545.00 fully equipped
Please visit Bmwusa.com for more information.


2019 MAZDA 3
Simply put, the Mazda 3 sedan is competitively priced with a plethora of bells and whistles. For starters, the automaker’s signature stunning Soul Red Crystal Metallic finish color is renowned—and emulated—throughout the industry. The smooth ride, low road noise, adequate acceleration, and competitive gas mileage make the 3 a winner for the perfect road trip.
Its interior on point with a user-friendly entertainment system, comfortable seating, and a stylish finish. The futuristic exterior design successfully embraces its Japanese roots, enhanced with a curvaceous frame, stylish grill, and sleek headlights definitely boost style points. Having mercy on the bank account, this handsome sedan gets decent gas mileage—25 mpg city/ 33 mpg highway—as well. Don’t be surprised if this model gets numerous head turns on the road; it earned it with a solid infrastructure and tech features to match. -- L.K. Byron
Price: $30,840
Please visit Mazdausa.com for more information.



2019 Nissan Rogue SL FWD
The 2019 Nissan Rogue is outstanding in terms of its features and price. With a 2.5 liter engine under the hood and 19” alloy wheels gripping the concrete, the Rogue comes equipped with standard equipment including a 7” color screen with multi-touch control, BOSE premium audio system with 9 speakers throughout the cabin, 2nd row seat A/C vents, push button start, remote engine start, heated front seats, heated leather wrapped steering wheel, and the handy motion activated rear lift gate. The Premium and Platinum Reserve Package on our model came with a stunning monarch orange exterior paint and tan quilted leather seats. Getting an impressive 29 MPG city/highway makes the Rogue excellent for women who stay on the go. – A.J.
Price: $35,130 for model reviewed
Please visit Nissanusa.com for more information.

Look for more 2019 and 2020 Steer Me! reviews coming soon!




SHARE:

Monday, July 1, 2019

10th Edition of Montréal Complètement Cirque is set to amaze July 4 to 14!


Photo by Andrew Miller
The 'City of Festivals' is going to be LIT in July!

There is no mystery that I consider Montreal, Quebec one of my favorite cities to visit in the world. Whether it’s for the food, culture, historical architecture, the sound of French being spoken as freely as English, or the arts, I don’t need much of an excuse to explore this amazing metropolis. Addressing the latter attraction, the annual Montreal Jazz Fest has had me return at least six times, and while its 40th birthday is going on during my visit the first week of July, it’s the 10th Edition of Montréal Complètement Cirque that has me literally strutting to my direct Delta flight to the “City of Festivals.” For 11 days from July 4 to 14, more than 425,000 will flock from all over the world and join me to revel in the magic Montreal has produced over the years. This official website description gives us an even better idea of what’s in store:

Photo by Andrew Miller
MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE is a Festival that brings people together across the city every July with a stunning circus program. For 11 days, Montreal moves to the rhythm of circus arts. Its venues, streets, parks, and sidewalks become stages to showcase colorful, high-flying performances from here and around the world.
An event not to be missed, MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE presents diversity in all its forms and expressions by creating moments where the most talented artists from the circus world come together to perform.
Created in 2010, it is the result of a collective dream that brings together TOHU—the project’s driving force—along with the support of Cirque Éloize, Les7 doigts de la main, Cirque du Soleil, the National Circus School, and En Piste. Together, they pooled their expertise, resources and will to create the first North American international festival dedicated to circus arts.

And as if I needed another excuse to be in Montreal, the city just so happens to be hosting Cirque du Soleil’s 35th anniversary as well! Sheesh! (They are also coming to Atlanta in October for their Volta production, so go here for more information.)
And with that, here is a link to more information, how to get tickets, and when indoor and free outdoor performances are taking place here. Hopefully you too can be a part of this historic event, but if not, I will definitely be documenting my visit. Be sure to follow my Montreal adventures on Instagram, Twitter, because honestly, with Montreal, it's not work, it’s a labor of love.
Au revoir!
Ale

Follow The Montréal Complètement Cirque on Twitter at @mtlccirque and on Instagram here, @mtlccirque.


SHARE:

Friday, June 7, 2019

Meeting the Reverend Al Sharpton meant so much.

I am still on a high after meeting the man I pay homage to 
every time I am referred to as Ale Sharpton.

Whoa!
After my awesome Forbes article written by Gary Stoller went viral this past Wednesday, I was floored by the positive response and praises from my followers, family, friends, and even strangers who simply wanted to show me love. I truly appreciated it. And then it happened: I got a message from a PR representative of the Reverend Al Sharpton requesting my presence; he happened to be in Atlanta for the African American Leadership Summit. After reading the article documenting my great respect for him explaining why I named myself Ale Sharpton, the Reverend wanted to link, take pictures with me, and show support for my endeavors. You know I was tripping! I always wanted to meet him in person and tell him what the article stated and it actually was happening. I honestly didn't know what to expect but was ready to embrace whatever. I wasn't missing this. 
When we linked up at his headquarters on the West End, I gave Reverend a big hug and he asked me questions about me, including upbringing, schooling, and what motivated me to be "Ale." I broke it down, then we took some pics, and then he was off to catch a flight. He was sharp, very polite, showed no celebrity arrogance, no shunning of alcohol consumption (he doesn't drink), or straight-up negative energy. Most importantly, it was his official validation of using the Sharpton name. It was a very cool, chill vibe. He went on to post it on his Instagram, I did the same the next morning here, and we both followed up by Tweets here and here, and Facebook posts. God is amazing.
Photo by Andrea Janise.
I am looking forward to building as Ale Sharpton and continue the journey of helping make the craft beer industry a great, enlightening, industrious, and inclusive one, while meeting great people along the way. 
And for you reading this, thanks for riding along with me. I couldn't do it without you. 
Peace!
Ale



SHARE:

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Check out what Creature Comforts has poppin' in June!

Creature goes big with cans, has a new gangster BA Stout, 
and a tap room full of deliciousness!
Photos are all Creature's.

Whaddup?!
I have been traveling heavy if you can tell from my Instagram, and had a blast recently in Ann Arbor. Please check out my #cruisinforabrewsinannarbor hashtag for all the dope spots I hit up while there.
Anyway, here I am back in ATL and this announcement caught my eye off the bat! No doubt, packaging in 16-ounce cans are the thing now, so Athens, GA’s Creature Comforts made it imperative to jump in on the fun with their legendary Thor-lovin’ Tropicalia and crushable Classic City Lager in four-pack tall boys June 1st. They also have a new Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout called Life in Flux from its recently expanded wood cellar at 13%; it’s encased in a 750-mL bottle flaunting their always consistent eye-poppin’ artwork.
Last, their taproom has a gangster list for those lucky enough to be there. Check it here!
Peep the info on everything straight from the source below.
What a 5th year CC is having!

Holla!
Ale
 ---------------------------------
The new BAIS 'Flux' joint looks fuego! 
Creature Comforts says:

16oz Cans Available this June! 
Starting June 1st 4-packs of 16-ounce cans of Creature Comforts' year-round offerings, Tropicália and Classic City Lager, will be available. The cans will be released from the brewery's tasting room on June 1st and in the market shortly following the onsite release. Tropicália cans will be offered in Athens only for the initial launch, and Classic City Lager will be in the Athens and Atlanta markets.

From the wood cellar: Life in Flux
Creature Comforts Brewing Company's next limited release from its recently expanded wood cellar, Life in Flux, will debut this June. Life in Flux will be available in 750mL bottles from the brewery’s tasting room June 1st.

Life in Flux is a blended imperial stout aged in whiskey barrels at 13% ABV. The brewery blended select barrels from its wood cellar that best represent the beauty of its current whiskey barrel-aged stout collection. The blend consists of stouts ranging from 17-25 months in barrels. Creature Comforts plans to release a blend of Life in Flux annually. The intent for each vintage is to represent a snapshot of the brewery’s barrels from a specific moment in time.
More information about Life in Flux can be found here!

Kick Off Summer at Creature Comforts

We're excited to announce we're kicking off the start of summer with several releases from our tasting room on June 1! Check out our website here for all the info!

Peace!
SHARE:

Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Here is the video from the Piano Keys pouring at Argosy in ATL!

Evidently, this celebration pouring my Piano Keys Imperial Dark Chocolate and Vanilla Stout collaboration with New Belgium, and fellow brewing friends Crowns & Hops, Hopstix, Down Home, Khonso, and Arches at the Argosy on March 21st, was LIT! 
Thanks for everyone for coming through! A special thanks goes to Crowns for hosting this with me. 

SHARE:

It's Hip-Hop Trivia's Anniversary!

If you know your hip hop, 
come prove it this Friday at Aisle 5!

SHARE:

Monday, May 13, 2019

The very last of my Piano Keys Imperial Stout gets poured on Tuesday, May 14th!

It's going to be at City Tap in 
Midtown ATL from 4:30 to 6:30. 
Come through!

New Belgium execs and special guests will be in attendance. Come show them how ATL's beer scene is one of the best and most diverse in the nation.
I appreciate y'all! 
Ale


SHARE:

Friday, May 10, 2019

Dope Mother's Day Eats in ATL!


STK is one of the delicious destinations to consider. 
Photo by CWPR

Here are some mouthwatering options for all the mothers out there!

I want to wish all the mamas who deserve to be pampered and treated to a meal or three at one of Atlanta’s many restaurants this Mother’s Day weekend. These listings come direct from the sources. Book your reservations fast!
I miss you, Brenda.
Happy Mother’s Day everyone!
Ale
 _____

Celebrate Mother’s Day With Brunch at STK Atlanta, 10:30 a.m. 
Known for its high-energy atmosphere and exceptional, signature and seasonal offerings, STK Atlanta is celebrating Mother’s Day with a special brunch for all ages on Sunday, May 12, 2019.  From 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m, the acclaimed Midtown steak and seafood house will be treating guests to a chef-driven Mothers Day Brunch Buffet featuring sweet and savory brunch essentials, a raw bar, a carving station and a "dessert playground”.  A live DJ along with classic mimosas, a mimosa bar, Bloody Marys and classic brunch cocktails will only add to the experience. STK’s Mother’s Day Brunch Buffett with be available for $79 per person and $22 per child, plus tax and gratuity.  STK’s full dinner menu will be available from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information or to make reservation, visit https://stksteakhouse.com/venues/atlanta or call 404-793-0144.  STK Atlanta is located at 1075 Peachtree Street in Midtown Atlanta on the corner of Peachtree and 12th Streets in the 12th & Midtown development. For more information or to make reservation, visit https://stksteakhouse.com/venues/atlanta or call 404-793-0144.  STK Atlanta is located at 1075 Peachtree Street in Midtown Atlanta on the corner of Peachtree and 12th Streets in the 12th & Midtown development.


Atlas Offers Complimentary Bubbly and a Rose for Moms 
Celebrate Mother’s Day with an unforgettable dinner at Atlas. Moms will be treated to a complimentary glass of bubbly, a single stemmed rose and are invited to enjoy a spectacular three-course prix fixe menu for $75 per person created just for the occasion by Executive Chef Christopher Grossman and Pasty Chef Christian Castillo. 
The full chef-driven dinner menu, which changes daily, will also be available.  Guests are also invited to view the restaurant’s acclaimed art installation featuring 30 pieces from esteemed artists including Foujita, Monet, Chagall, Modigliani and Soutine.  Located within the St. Regis Atlanta, Atlas celebrates the very best in seasonal American cuisine combined with European influences.  With a focus on curating fresh ingredients from local farms, this chef-driven restaurant brings unparalleled culinary experiences to the capital of the South. 
For more information or to make a reservation, visit atlasrestaurant.com.  Atlas is located at the St. Regis Atlanta at 88 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305.  


Treat Mom to Brunch and Bottomless Mimosas at Dantanna’s 
With two convenient locations, Buckhead and Downtown, Dantanna’s is celebrating moms this Mother’s Day with a curated brunch menu and, of course, lots of bubbles.  On Sunday, May 12, 2019, moms are invited to enjoy a brunch menu created just for Mother’s Day by Dantanna’s very own Chef Monique Barrow. As if that wasn’t enough, moms can also take take advantage of bottomless mimosas from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Buckhead location and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Downtown location, while enjoying a delectable brunch. The Buckhead location will also have its full brunch menu available, which includes favorites like: Monkey Bread; Cured Salmon-Avocado Toast; Eggs Dantannas Style;  Crab Cakes Benedict; and much more. The expansive wine, beer and cocktail menu will also be available at both locations. Dantannas Buckhead is located at the Shops Around Lenox, 3400 Around Lenox Rd NE #304, Atlanta, GA 30326. Dantannas Downtown is located at1 CNN Center #269, Atlanta, GA 30303. For more information visit www.dantannas.com or call 404.760.8873 for Dantanna’s Buckhead and 404.522.8873 for Dantanna’s Downtown.


Celebrate Mom During a Special Brunch at The Brasserie at PARISH
One of the top brunch destinations in Atlanta that is conveniently located in Inman Park right on the BeltLine, The Brasserie at PARISH is getting an early start on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12th. Featuring a mouthwatering menu, brunch lovers can celebrate Mom from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and take advantage of a complimentary photo booth from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. where they can print off photos and add them to their favorite social media sites. With inspired familiar American food, an inventive beverage program, and warm hospitality, PARISH will also be serving a Mother’s Day dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information or to make reservations, call 404.681.4434 or visit parishatl.com. Parish is located on the Atlanta Beltline at N. Highland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30307 and boasts a dog-friendly patio.. Stay connected on Twitter at @parishATL and Instagram at @ParishInmanPark and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/ParishFood-and-GoodsInman-Park.  


TWO urban licks Will Serve a Fiery Mother’s Day Brunch
TWO urban licks is serving up a special brunch just for Mom this Mother’s Day featuring live music from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  While enjoying acclaimed Executive Che Michael Bertozzi’s fiery brunch and lunch creations including traditional favorites and signature items, guests can take advantage of a complimentary photo booth from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. where they can print off photos and add them to their favorite social media sites. Those looking for a later celebration can celebrate Mom with a delicious dinner between 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. TWO urban licks is conveniently on the Atlanta BeltLine in the Old Fourth Ward and boasts a completely renovated patio just in time for spring. To make a reservation, call 404.522.4622 or visit twourbanlicks.com. Two Urban Licks is located at 820 Ralph McGill Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30306.


Experience Bully Boy's Eastern Seaboard Fare for Lunch and Dinner on Mother’s Day
Making a splash in Atlanta's dining scene, Bully Boy, will be open special hours from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, May 12, 2019, in honor of Mother’s Day. Featuring an array of Eastern seaboard fare created by Executive Chef Michael Bertozzi, moms and their hungry guests can dive into Virginia Oyster Sliders, BBQ Georgia White Shrimp, Main Jonah Crab Roll and much more. Imbibers looking to toast to the holiday can sip on a nostalgic cocktails, local and coastal craft brews and full-bodied wines. To make a reservation, visit, www.bullyboyatl.com, or call 678-904-5607. Located at 828 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 the beltline restaurant opens for dinner at 5 pm every day.


Enjoy a Special Mother’s Day Brunch at The Shed at Glenwood, 10 a.m.
The Shed at Glenwood, the popular neighborhood brunch and dinner destination nestled in cozy Glenwood Park and Grant Park, is hosting an expansive Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet created by Executive Chef Quintles Swain on May 12th, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Known for its intimate atmosphere, friendly service and seasonal offerings, adults and kids alike can enjoy an array of brunch traditional brunch favorites and signature items from assorted pastries to shrimp & grits, biscuits and gray, and much more.  The Shed’s Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet is available for $35 for adults and $15 for kids. For more information, visit www.theshedatglenwood.com or call 404.835.4363. The Shed at Glenwood is located at 475 Bill Kennedy Way SE, Atlanta, GA 30316.  


Celebrate Mother’s Day During Park Tavern’s Annual Brunch, 
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
On Sunday May 12, 2019, Park Tavern will once again host an unforgettable Mother’s Day brunch on its expansive patio overlooking picturesque Piedmont Park. One of its most popular annual events, guests are invited to celebrate Mom while enjoying an exuberant buffet boasting interactive stations including a Biscuit Bar serving flaky buttermilk biscuits with fried chicken, chef-attended omelet and carving stations, and a French toast and Belgian waffle station with the works.  Brunch goers will also be treated to a mouthwatering buffet featuring Eggs Benedict with candied bacon, blackened salmon over warm quinoa salad, Applewood smoked bacon, sausage, garlic green beans, asparagus salad with toasted walnuts and goat cheese, pastries, a dessert bar, and more.  New to this year, imbibers can enjoy endless champagne, mimosa and rosé wine offerings from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. during Park Tavern’s Mother’s Day Brunch Bubbles experience for $54.95.  
General Admission is $34.95 for adults, $14.95 for kids ages 7 to 12, and kids 6 and under are free.  To make reservations and purchase tickets, visit www.parktavern.com or call 404-249-0001. 


Fúdo Offers Moms Complimentary Sparkling Rosé
On Sunday, May 12, 2019, Fúdo, is inviting moms to toast to a special Mother’s Day in the heart of Downtown Chambee with a complimentary glass of sparking rosé. Hungry moms, friends and family are also invited to nosh on artfully presented sushi and sharable plate selections of authentic Japanese cuisine, such as Spicy Mega Tune Roll, Over The RainBow Roll, Pan Seared Dumplings, Shumai, Edamame and much more. To make a reservation or for more information, visit www.fudoatl.com or call 678.691.7088. Fúdo is located at 5070 Peachtree Blvd Suite A100 Chamblee, GA 30341. 


Brunch the Day Away in Winder at Bistro Off Broad This Mother’s Day
Brunch lovers are invited to take a day trip with mom to Bistro Off Broad, a chef-driven dining destination located in historic downtown Winder, Georgia, on Sunday, May 12th for a mouthwatering and locally-sourced Mother’s Day brunch created by Executive Chef Alex Friedman. From 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., diners can nosh on Buttermilk Malted Waffles, French Toast, Biscuits & Gravy, La Boucherie and Eggs and much more. Moms looking to add bubbles to their Mother’s Day plans can sip on bottomless mimosas and bellinis, along with bottomless Bloody Marys. Reservations are encouraged. Bistro Off Broad is located at 16 E Candler St, Winder, GA 30680. For more information, visit http://www.bistrooffbroad.com.


Portico Global Cuisine
Sunday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Taking the family out for Mother's Day Brunch is a gift for everyone. You do something nice for you mom (check!) and you do something nice for yourself (check and check!). And there's no better place to enjoy it than Portico at Le Meridien where you can enjoy a cold seafood bar, carving station, yummy entrees and dessert, live jazz plus a build-your-own Bloody Mary station and bottomless Mimosas. Portico at Le Meridien is located at 111 Perimeter Center W, Atlanta, GA 30346. For more information, visit https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/atllm-le-meridien-atlanta-perimeter/.

SHARE:

Tuesday, April 9, 2019

It's another episode of Cruisin' For A Brewsin'!


Cheers Y'all!
I love this ongoing Cruisin' For A Brewsin' series where I produce videos with some very talented team members of my AllWays Open Creative team to bring you with me during my travels, and this one is definitely a standout! This time, I am taking you to an extra gangster brew spot called Local Vine in northwest Atlanta right off Cobb Parkway. My homies got me a gift card, I went by, and spent at least an hour looking for liquid goodness!
Anyway, here are some of my favorite moments. The address and contact info is below.
Enjoy the show!
Ale

SHARE:

Creature Comforts plans to go hard celebrating 5 years!


(Peep the old school are when Creature first came out.)
On April 13, it's about to be on at the brewery in Athens! 
Yo!
It’s no mystery that I regard Creature Comforts as one of the best breweries in the nation, and now with officially five years under their belt, I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone this Saturday, April 13, from 1 to 11 p.m. (VIP starts at 11 a.m.) Here is the link for more info, plus the official press release is below along with the gangster beer list. 
See y’all there!
Ale

Creature Comforts To Release Limited Offering Five Year Anniversary Ale
The brewery will celebrate its Five Year Anniversary this April with special beer offerings, live music, and more!

In preparation of its Five Year Anniversary celebration, Creature Comforts Brewing Company announced the release a limited offering, Five Year Anniversary Ale. The beer will be available, along with a variety of special offerings, on April 13 at the brewery’s Five Year Anniversary celebration. The Five Year Anniversary Ale is a blended strong ale from the brewery’s whiskey barrel cellar. The average age of the blend is 23 months in whiskey barrels. The beer is 12.8-percent ABV and will be available in 750-mL bottles. Additional limited offerings that will be available at the Anniversary celebration include Existence [2019], Concurrence Blend No. 001, Duende, Athena Tiki (Painkiller), and more. [I posted more below.]
Creature Comforts will celebrate its Five Year Anniversary on April 13 in its tasting room in downtown Athens. The event will feature a special beer list, live music, and an open-air market. The brewery will host a ticketed VIP session from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm and general admission from 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm.
“The last five years have been an unbelievable journey," said CEO Chris Herron. "We’re immensely grateful for the support from our incredible community over the years, and to have the opportunity to continue pursuing our passion."
The Five Year Anniversary Ale will be available onsite at the brewery on April 13 for the celebration. For more information on Creature Comforts Brewing Company, visit www.creaturecomfortsbeer.com.

Peep the running beer list:
5 Year Anniversary Ale
Existence
Tritonia with cucumber & lime
Tritonia with pineapple and lemon
Koko Buni
Double Koko Buni
Cosmik Debris
Arcadiana
Dayspring
Booger Hill
Athens to Athens Grist to Grist
Double Dry-Hopped Tropicalia
Booger Hill
Cellarman's Spirit
The Curiosity Bar
Athena Paradiso with tart cherry, raspberry, and cranberry
Athena Paradiso with passion fruit & guava
Subtle Alchemy 1, 2, 3
Common Things
Fauxjolais
River Ridge Black
Transmission
Mutualism
And More!!

SHARE:

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

The 24th annual Classic City Brew Fest is going to be nuts!



Here is what’s being poured on 
Sunday, April 7th in Athens, GA!

Yo, this year's Classic City Brew Fest on April 7th will have not only some of the dopest draft beer to pour, but also more than 50 exclusive cask ales made just for this event, select bottles of whales popped each half hour, and some live bands jamming! 
Peep the gangster one-off roster below. To add, it’s all indoors so weather can’t hate. This is truly one of my favorite festivals to hit up every year, so come see why. It will be:
Sunday, April 7, 2019
2:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Athens Cotton Press
149 Oneta Street
Athens, Georgia
For extra karma points, proceeds benefit the Athens Area Humane Society. Go HERE for tickets.
And now for the list of casks…

Check out our exciting line-up of exclusive, one-off cask ales for Classic City Brew Fest on April 7...

Akademia Brewing On The Pull is a low-gravity, sessionable English mild ale with a twist from additions of lactose and vanilla beans. Expect notes of dark malt, mild fruity esters, light bittering hops, and nuances of creamy sweetness backed by appealing vanilla.
Alcovy Brewing Patio Beer. Our 4.5% ABV patersbier is modeled after the beer that Trappist monks are rumored to brew for themselves. With notes of clove, peppercorns, mace, and cinnamon, this spicy Belgian-style "single ale" is approachable, complex, and quite refreshing.
Arches Brewing Equilibrium Pale Ale - An American pale ale with a grain bill designed to provide a moderate body and excellent head retention. Well bittered with Cascade and Chinook that give notes of grapefruit and spice, this cask was dry-hopped with El Dorado, Cascade, and Comet for a citrus and pine aroma.
Athentic Brewing My Naughty Little Pet is a 9.1% ABV Wee Heavy Scottish ale produced with the historic Edinburgh yeast strain. This exclusive cask has been aging with oak spirals and cocoa nibs. Also check out our draft version of the same beer next to the Akademia booth. A collaboration done at Akademia. 
Atlanta Brewing Conjuring Cultures with Grapefruit is a mixed fermentation farmhouse ale. Imagine a saison fermented in aromatic bourbon barrels with Belgian ale yeast and two funky Brettanomyces strains.
BeeCraft Sweet Mother of Pearls is our nationally-awarded blueberry, blackberry, and black currant Dark Pearls mead sweetened with North Georgia wildflower honey and aged in the cask with Ceylon and Saigon cinnamon sticks. 13.8% ABV.
BlueTarp Brewing Purple People Eater is a barrel-aged American sour ale with dragon fruit. This 6.2% ABV ale offers interesting tart notes from the fermentation character, while the dragon fruit provides hints of kiwi and pear complexity.
Burnt Hickory Snickers Stout. AKA Snicky Snicks, this rich, dessert stout is named in honor of our beloved taproom guy Snickers. At 10% ABV, this is a malty, boozy "candy bar" in a glass!
Cannon Brew Pub Chocolate Cherry Red Jacket. Red Jacket has been our flagship beer at Cannon for 20 years. It's a malty amber ale with notes of caramel. For this cask, we've added cacao nibs and maraschino cherries.
Carolina Bauernhaus Plum Gold is our golden sour ale aged on a blend of locally sourced, dried plums. A Mosaic dry-hop was added to this unique cask for a layer of berry medley, citrus, and stone fruit notes.
Cherry Street The Lost Boyz - A 6% ABV sour blonde ale fermented with boysenberries and cranberries. Vanilla beans and blueberries were also added to this special cask for an added layer of mouth-watering flavors.
Chops & Hops / Southern Brewing Collaboration BAM That's Hazy is a juicy, hazy, IPA with Mandarina Bavaria and Simcoe hops with added complexity from additions of blackberry, apricot, and mango.
Coastal Empire Clouds of Pineapple Milkshake IPA is brewed with generous amounts of oats, wheat, milk sugar, and pineapple. All hops were added post-boil, with Citra and Azacca making up the fragrant dry-hops. Aged on Madagascar vanilla, this special cask will be like creamy pineapple soft serve in a glass.
Creature Comforts Lemon Verbena DaySpring. Our cask is a version of our award-winning grisette Belgian-style session ale with local wheat and locally grown lemon verbena.
Dry County Kope Niu Old 41. We took our gold medal winning oatmeal stout and conditioned it with Kona coffee, coconut flakes and a dash of vanilla caviar for a Hawaiian take on our favorite stout.
Eagle Creek Blueberry Ascension of the Kaiju. Kaiju means "strange creature" in Japanese. That's exactly what we created in this satisfying, 4.5% ABV pilsner-type brew with light green tea, ginger, and a pile of blueberries added to the cask.
Etowah Meadery Hopped Up OMG is made with Georgia honey, mountain water, mangos, guava and Amarillo dry-hops. One sip of this tasty mead would make Athena start hopping around saying "OMG!"
Eventide Kattegat Baltic Porter was cask-conditioned with dark brown sugar, and the residual sweetness accentuates the vinous and chocolate flavors of the beer, while the fine, soft carbonation delivered by cask-conditioning presents a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel and taste profile.
Firewater Brewing Super Dry-Hopped Hop Chief. We dry-hopped this brew three times with Citra and Mosaic on top of an already juicy, citrusy, and slightly hazy IPA. Truly the chief of hops, this cask offers massive citrus and floral notes from extra additions of Citra, Mosaic, and Eureka hops.
Fyne Ales Sublime Stout (Scotland, UK) - A dark, deep ruby red stout with aromas of roasted malt and a hint of licorice. Mellow sweetness and a malty fruitiness are followed by a smooth, dry finish. Sublime Stout gets hopped four times, including dry-hopping in the cask.
Fyne Ales Superior IPA (Scotland, UK) is 7.1% ABV with Citra and Cascade hops backed by aromas of apricot and peach. Flavors of tropical and stone fruits lead to a pleasant, bittersweet finish. Superior IPA is generously hopped at four points of the brewing process, including dry-hopping in the cask.
Gate City Sweet Heat OTP is our 8% ABV double IPA with loads of mango, hot chilies, and a dash of lime. The flavor starts with sweet mango goodness, then the heat slowly creeps in, warming you from the inside out. It's like sitting in a hot tub with your soulmate.
Good Word Brewing Rocksteady English Mild. This 3.4% ABV classic UK-style ale offers elegant notes of toffee, leather, mild fruit, and malt complexity. It's easy on the alcohol, yet loaded with flavor. Number One of the bad guy English beer duo.
Hi-Wire Brewing Hop Circus Berzerkus. We took our fruity, juicy Hop Circus series and crushed it with 4.5 pounds per barrel of Azacca dry-hops. Expect huge tropical fruit notes and a smooth body from the flaked oats and flaked wheat.
Ironmonger Brewing Stop! Mango-Guava Timeis a mango/guava Belgian-style wheat beer adapted from our staple witbier, Too Legit To Wit. With additions of fresh mango and guava, this 4.9% ABV cask is bursting with succulent tropical flavors.
Left Hand Brewing Milk Stout with Mint. Roasted malt and coffee flavors build the foundation of this creamy sweet stout. The addition of mint will remind you that it's time to order Thin Mints from your neighbor's daughter.
Left Nut Brewing Cruisin' for a Blusin'. Our inspiration for this cask came from a beer and cupcake pairing. The cask is Hooch Shootin' NE IPA fruited with blueberries and lemon. Expect juicy hops, with a sweet and sour kick from the fruit. Let them have cake!
Lincoln Fill Station / Cherry Street Collaboration Triple Chocolate Chunk is our 12% Russian imperial stout aged in a Belle Meade Bourbon barrel. Three types of chocolate and toasted coconut were added to this extraordinary cask.
Lonerider Brewing Addie's Revenge with Tropical Fruit. Addie has taken a wild ride in her search for revenge. Lonerider's limited Citra and Amarillo IPA has picked up three intriguing fruit additions for this one-off cask: orange zest, mango, and watermelon.
Macon Beer Company Cherry Chocolate Milkshake Ale. We took a cherry rye ale and blended lactose, cacao nibs, and vanilla beans, creating a cherry chocolate milkshake ale with an additional fresh cherry puree.
Max Lager's Southern Passion Hopsplosion. Citra, Galaxy, Mosaic, El Dorado, and Azacca were added at the last minute to give this IPA a luscious tropical character bursting with notes of pineapple, mango, orange, and guava. This cask also contains a dose of Southern Passion hops from South Africa. 7.5% ABV.
Monday Night Dark Dessert Matter is thick, roasty, and toasty with chocolate and coffee notes. We decided to play into these elements by adding locally-roasted Batdorf & Bronson coffee, Ghirardelli chocolate, and toasted coconut to the cask. At 12% ABV, this truly is a stout to savor with dessert.
Moon River Double Dry-Hopped Cosmic Terror Pale Ale with passion fruit. From the outer reaches comes a juicy, 5.9% ABV, hypnotic pale ale, thrumming with forbidden knowledge of ancient gods. The dark ritual involves untold quantities of Galaxy and Mosaic hops, performed twice for good measure, accompanied by the flesh sacrifice of the otherworldly passion fruit. Seriously, have you ever seen the inside of a passion fruit? Google it.
New Realm Reserve Belgian Tripel with Sabro dry-hops and oak chips. We dry-hopped this classic Belgian-style tripel with the new Sabro hop variety that adds coconut and fruity flavors, and then steeped it on bourbon-soaked oak chips. 10% ABV.
Oconee Brewing Dukes & Bell's Hey Man Watermelon & Lime Blonde Ale. This 5% ABV golden ale is brewed in collaboration with 92.9 The Game Atlanta Sports Radio. Watermelon and lime were added, creating a refreshing and crushable springtime beer that's fruity but not over the top.
Orpheus Native Funk 1 is our one-year Méthode Traditionnelle from a single barrel. Brewed with a turbid mash and aged hops, then cooled and wildly inoculated in our coolships before spontaneously fermenting in barrels for a year, this soft ale offers mild acidity with notes of lemon, cheese, white grapes, and a hint of barnyard.
Oskar Blues Double Dry-Hopped Can O'Bliss Tropical. "Trop it like it's hot… and hazy!" It's a paradise of pineapple, mango, and citrus topped off with a mix of Idaho 7, Galaxy, Mosaic, Citra, El Dorado and Azacca hops. For this cask, we added an additional, generous charge of Strata hops to lend dank, passion fruit notes.
Pontoon Brewing Maple Chocolate Pecan Pie Porter is a 6.5% porter brewed with molasses, then aged on pecans. This one-of-a-kind, flavorful cask also contains cacao and maple syrup.
Queenswood Pub Glitteris is an American farmhouse sour ale with funk and flavor from yeast, bacteria, passion fruit and lychee. The dark purple color comes from the butterfly pea flower Clitoria ternatae that's said to provide antioxidants and slow down premature aging. And, of course, glitter was added. Sparkle on!
Red Hare Real Passion. Fresh passion fruit complements this northwest Atlanta version of an English IPA that crossed the pond only to find it prefers the States and wants to be a fruit-forward, new school, American IPA on tour with all its fancy new friends. 
Reformation Maple-Vanilla Russian Imperial Stout. Expect complex, deep aromas and flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, espresso, and caramelized sugars in this rich, potent dark ale.
Scofflaw Brewing Sucker Punch IPA. This flavorful cask was dry-hopped with Citra and conditioned on mangos and peaches for an explosive profile of citrus and stone fruit intensity.
Second Self Jalisco Night is our guava Berliner weisse with fresh blueberries for added tartness and red jalapeño peppers for a spark of heat. 4.6% ABV.
Service Brewing Armistice IPA brewed with the crop year 2018 Veteran’s Blend of hops and pink guava. Ekuanot, Mosaic, Cashmere, Simcoe, and Centennial hops make this 6.9% ABV, heavily dry-hopped IPA extremely aromatic and juicy, and the addition of pink guava elevates the melon and papaya notes.
Southern Brewing Company Cuchulainn Irish-Style Red Alecomes in at 5% ABV and provides wonderful notes of caramel, bread crust, and light bittering hops for a southern take on a classic style from the Emerald Isle. Made with small-batch Irish malts.
SweetWater Brewing cask TBA.
Terrapin Mr. Krunkles. Pull the crumbs out of your mustache for a sip of our Mr. Krunkles cask. This straight-up IPA was inspired by the most famous IPA brewer who ever lived… Krunkles! Packed with Citra, Amarillo, Simcoe, Mosaic and Zythos hops for over-the-top juiciness.
Three Taverns Krispy Kreme Milk Stout is an 8% ABV imperial milk stout with added sweetness and complexity from Krispy Kreme doughnuts. No need to watch for the hot doughnut sign, just make sure the tap is flowing!
Torched Hop Outta Control - This double IPA was brewed with the best Australian and New Zealand hops available. Massive notes of mango, peach, passion fruit and citrus jump out of the glass.
Twain's British Golden Ale was brewed with 75% Maris Otter malt, 25% Golden Promise malt and rare UK Jester hops, and the style could be considered a UK interpretation of an American Pale Ale. The malt is clean but has substance, the hops are fruity/earthy and in balance with the malt, and the English yeast produces mild fruity esters. 5.4% ABV.
Variant Brewing Imperial Raspberry Lemon Gose is a 10.5% ABV tart, salty ale with an extra dose of raspberries and lemon zest in this exclusive cask.
Wicked Weed Persistence is an amber sour ale with Montmorency cherries. The brew was aged in wooden foeders for two months and then transferred to red wine barrels for an additional six months to complete its aging and produce layers of complexity.
Wild Heaven Double Oaked Eschaton Belgian Quad is a big, malty beer reminiscent of a rich red wine with a drier finish than you'd expect from 10.5% ABV. This Belgian strong dark ale abounds with dark fruit and pit fruit flavors, and the vanilla notes from the oak add delightful complexity.
Wild Leap Bourbon Blackberry Creme Brûlée Stout. This is a single barrel Ventured Oatmeal Chocolate Stout aged for a full year in a Jim Beam barrel with blackberries, lactose, and vanilla.
Wrecking Bar Vanilla Siberius Maximus Russian Imperial Stout. Our popular high-gravity stout with notes of chocolate, coffee, molasses, and dark fruit. This special cask was conditioned on Tahitian vanilla beans for a decadent finish.

Holler!!!
SHARE:

2025 Hops in the Hangar is back September 20th!

  Get Tickets Now! Cheers Y'all! I went to the awesome Hops in the Hangar a few years ago and have been wanting to go back ever since. I...

© Cruisin' For A Brewsin'
Blog Design by pipdig