From gift cards to special offers, ATL restaurants deliver for the Holidays!

The world renowned Chef Kevin Gillespie showing off his coffee.

Great holiday gift selection from Atlanta restaurants, chefs and more!

Hey you!

So after featuring what some local restaurants are doing for the Holiday season here, a sea of other restaurants graciously joined in to let us know what they are doing to make things just a bit more joyous in December. From specials at Chef Kevin Gillespie’s General Store (above), to gift cards from some of ATL’s top eateries including Ray’s Restaurants and The Pig & the Pearl in Atlantic Station, here we go! These are descriptions straight from the sources.

Happy eatin’ and sippin’!

Ale

---------------

Atlantic Station's The Pig & The Pearl has some serious sauces!

The holidays are a festive time for gift giving, but what if you are stumped on what to get your foodie friends and family?  Fear not, for below is a great round-up of local products that will be sure to please everyone on your list.

Chef Kevin Gillespie Treats

For those with coffee-fiend friends, check out what Kevin Gillespie has brewing in his General Store.  He is selling his signature “Red Beard’s Delight” coffee, his own special blend from his pals at Jittery Joe’s in Athens, Georgia, for $14 a canister.  A bright, well-rounded, easy-drinking coffee, it is perfect for automatic drip and French press alike.  Grab a coffee mug ($10) to go with it, and the total price is $21.  Other great finds include $25 Gunshow t-shirts. Visit www.chefkevingillespiemerch.com to fully browse the great gift ideas and order a signed copy of Kevin's new cookbook, Pure Pork Awesomeness: Totally Cookable Recipes from Around the World ($30).  Everything you need to know about selecting, cooking and enjoying pork is included.  The book will be released and shipped on March 31, 2015.

White Oak Pastures

Georgia’s most beloved and renowned farm offers some incredible one-of-a-kind holiday gifts through its convenient online store.  The Holiday Meat Packages shop sells farm-fresh meats delivered from the farm to the front door.  One of the best finds is the “Holiday Gift Box Four" ($300), which includes a pastured duck, pastured goose, grass-fed tenderloin roast, grass-fed prime rib roast, a medium pastured turkey and a pastured guinea hen.

Outside of the fresh meat selections, browse the online shop for other farm-inspired items like Campessino whole bean coffee ($11), grass-fed beef tallow candle in vanilla scent ($4.99) and White Oak Pastures clothing.  For a truly unique gift, check out Madeline Smiles handmade grass-fed jewelry.  Following the practice of utilizing every part of the cow, Madeline processes the sun-dried bones collected from the farm to make beautiful earrings and necklaces starting at $42.

The Pig & the Pearl

The delicious barbecue sauces prepared by Todd Richards at The Pig & the Pearl make perfect stocking stuffers for those in the family who like things spicy.  Flavors include Hot, Hotter and Bourbon Hot Sauce and are available to purchase at the Atlantic Station restaurant for $8 a bottle; three for $21.

Orpheus Brewing

Whether you are stocking up for the holiday party or looking to gift your beer connoisseur friends, Orpheus Brewing makes the perfect local pick.  Even better, flagship beers Atalanta and Lyric Ale are now available in cans.  Both brews are decorated with commissioned designs from Atlanta artists Brandon Sadler and Peter Ferrari, giving the cans a unique twist.  Six-packs are available at local retailers and package stores.

Gift Cards

You can't go wrong with gift cards, and the following Atlanta restaurants have sweetened the pot with some great deals:

·         Aqua blue: Receive a $25 bonus card with purchase of a $100 gift card.  aquablueatl.com

·         Bantam + Biddy: Give the gift of fresh this year and enjoy an additional $10 gift card when you purchase a $50 gift card now through December 31.  Gift cards are available at all Bantam + Biddy locations including Ansley, Crescent, Avalon and Lenox.  bantamandbiddy.com

·         Chick-a-Biddy: Purchase a $50 gift card this holiday season and get an additional $10 gift card.  Offer valid until December 31.  chickabiddyatl.com

·         Communitas Hospitality: Fans of 10^th& Piedmont, G’s Midtown and HOBNOB can enjoy a great offer of $20 free each time you purchase $100 in gift cards for the hospitality group.  Purchases can be made online at here.  Cards cannot be used the day of purchase and expire on  March 23, 2015.  communitashospitality.com

·         FLIP Burger: Receive an additional $10 gift card with a $50 gift card purchase or an additional $20 with $100.  The bonus cards expire on March 15 and are not valid on the day of purchase.  flipburgerboutique.com

·         Hearth Pizza Tavern: Buy a $50 gift card and receive an additional $10 gift card, available now through January 1.  hearthpizzatavern.com

·         Parma Tavern: Available now until January 1, purchase a $50 gift card and receive an extra $10 gift card.  parmarustictavern.com

·         The Pig & the Pearl: Now through December 31, enjoy an additional $20 when you purchase $100 in gift cards for the holidays.  thepigandthepearl.com

·         Marlow’s Tavern: Guests who purchase a $100 gift card will receive an additional $20 gift card from the restaurant.  Offer is valid through December 31.  marlowstavern.com

·         RA Sushi: Now through December 31, RA Sushi is offering its fans an additional $10 bonus card with every $50 gift card purchase.  The bonus gift cards are valid from January 2 to March 31, 2015.  rasushi.com

·         Ray's Restaurants: In addition to a special gift ($25 value; while supplies last) with all in-restaurant gift card purchases of $100 or more at Ray's On The River, Ray's At Killer Creek and Ray's In the City, the restaurant group is also offering a 20% bonus on all gift card purchases of $25-$975 and a 25% bonus on all gift card purchases of $1,000 or more.  These offers are valid through the end of January.  raysrestaurants.com

·         Ted's Montana Grill: Fill your stockings with Ted's gift cards.  Receive 15% off when you purchase $500 or more. tedsmontanagrill.com

·         The Shed at Glenwood: Guests can enjoy an additional $20 in gift cards with a $100 purchase now through the end of the year.  theshedatglenwood.com

·         Tin Drum: Purchase a $25 gift card and receive a free entrée.  The offer is valid now through December 28 at all Atlanta-area locations.  tindrumcafe.com

·         Tin Lizzy’s: Give the gift of Atlanta’s favorite Tex-Mex this holiday season.  Purchase a $100 gift card and get an additional $20 gift card.  Offer is available only with a $20 minimum gift card purchase at a Tin Lizzy’s location now through December 31.  The bonus cards may be redeemed January 1 through February 28.  tinlizzyscantina.com

Cypress Street's Beer Geek Tuesday goes hop-crazy with four dope breweries tonight!

Sierra Nevada, Terrapin, SweetWater and Ballast Point 

throw down at Cypress!

As many of you know, I love Cypress Street Pint & Plate and Beer Geek Tuesdays is one of the 100s of reasons. Here is the info for tonight which features four of the best breweries in the nation pouring two of their hop-crazy brews for out enjoyment. There's even a raffle. Come through!

Hoppy Holidays!
Ale

ATL restaurants throw down for the Holidays starting tonight!

Spots like Cook Hall, One Eared Stag and others do it big in December!

Whaddup!!!

So I just go word that some of Atlanta’s most revered restaurants are making our Holidays and New Year’s that much more festive by pleasing our palates with some awesome events, dinners, and celebrations in December.

From One Eared Stag’s Monday Night Chicken featuring the city’s beloved Monday Night Brewing and Avoid Monday Meltdown at Food 101 tonight, to Livingston’s Santa Brunch, Seven Lamps’ Cotton Ball, and Proof & Provision’s third annual NYE White Trash Bash (hmmmm…), Atlanta continues to be the shiiiizzzznit! Look for more events on this site soon! The descriptions are straight from the sources are below.

Cheers!

Ale

December 12│Livingston Restaurant + Bar│“Share The Party” Holiday Luncheon

“Share the Party” at Livingston Restaurant + Bar during their first-annual holiday luncheon on Friday, December 12 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The “Share the Party” Holiday Luncheon is geared toward small offices and groups that would like to celebrate the holidays without throwing a full-blown holiday party. The event will feature stunning holiday decor, live piano music and a seasonal buffet from Executive Chef Michael Semancik that will be offered for $35 per person plus tax and 20 percent gratuity. Due to limited space, guests are encouraged to make reservations prior to December 5 to guarantee their spot. Please email ashley@georgianterrace.com or call 404.897.5000 to make your reservation and prepay for guests in your party.

659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

livingstonatlanta.com | 404.897.5000

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December 14 & 21│Livingston Restaurant + Bar│Santa Brunch

Livingston is celebrating the holiday season with a brunch that is enjoyable for the whole family. On December 14 and 21, Livingston will host a Santa Brunch featuring a sprawling Southern-style buffet of seasonal fare and kid-friendly options.  The highlight of the event will be a special visit from Santa from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. A professional photographer will be on site to capture holiday memories. Printed photographs will be available for purchase for $5. Livingston is offering a special discount code to Santa Brunch-goers. Guests are encouraged to visit www.foxtheatre.org/nutcracker and use the code “SANTA” to receive 10 percent off matinee showings of The Nutcracker on December 14 and 21. Livingston Restaurant + Bar’s Santa Brunch will take place from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on both Sundays, December 14 and December 21. Brunch will cost $30 for adults, $15 for children 12 & under and be free for children under 3. Reservations can be made by calling 404.897.5000.

659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

livingstonatlanta.com | 404.897.5000

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December 14 | Seven Lamps | Cotton Ball

Seven Lamps celebrates its second anniversary (“the gift of cotton”) with the Cotton Ball on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., and chef Drew Van Leuvan has assembled an all-star lineup of some of Atlanta’s most iconic chefs to join him in a special dinner, including: Hugh Acheson, Bruce Logue, Hector Santiago, Ryan Smith and Zeb Stevenson. Bar talent will include Seven Lamps’ own Kevin Bragg accompanied by Michael Searles, Kellie Thorne, Tiffanie Barriere, Scott Mayer, Ian Cox and Madison Burch. Dinner will consist of a seven course meal with wine and cocktail pairings and will cost $125 per person (inc. tax and gratuity). Advance purchase required, tickets are limited and can be purchased athttp://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/943407. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/sevenlampsatl or call(404)-467-8950.

3400 Around Lenox Road NE, #217, Atlanta, Ga. 30326

sevenlampsatl.com| 404.467.8950

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December 19 | Cook Hall Concert Series | Danny Hutchens and Donna Hopkins

Summer may be over, but our compelling Fall Concert Series is still going strong right into winter. Enjoy the final fall nights listening to great live music at Cook Hall every third Friday of the month.  This installment is an exciting two for one with performances by Danny Hutchens and Donna Hopkins. Danny Hutchens has been writing, recording, and performing his songs professionally since 1994. Donna Hopkins, the Alabama-bred crooner, is a triple threat as a singer, songwriter and guitarist. Three hour complimentary valet parking is available for guests. For more information about our Fall Concert Series, contact us at 404-523-3600.

3377 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Ga. 30326

cookhallatlanta.com | 404-523-3600

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December 21, 23 & 26 | Holidays at The Stag | One Eared Stag

Chef Robert Phalen has lined up a week of reasons to celebrate the season with Stag happenings. On Sunday, Dec.21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the One Eared Stag bar, the Holiday Punch Party will kick off the week of Christmas. For $25 per person, guests will receive a first round on the house, including special holiday cocktails for the occasion and passed appetizers from chef Phalen. The Eve of Christmas Eve Supper (Tuesday, Dec. 23 from 7 p.m. – close) guests are invited for a traditional holiday dinner from chef Phalen. Food will be served family style from the farm table. Cost per person is $100 (including tax and tip), which includes wine pairings of three reds and three whites and a welcome cocktail and hors d’oeuvres to start the evening. Seating is limited; reservations are required and must be made by calling (404) 525-4479. One Eared Stag going full English on Friday, Dec. 26 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. with Boxing Day Brunch. The special menu for the day will include a traditional English breakfast, Butcher’s Plate and Pullman’s Lunch. A One Eared Stag-exclusive cask of Terrapin Beer Co.’s Wake & Bake will be tapped for the occasion.

1029 Edgewood Ave. NE, Atlanta, Ga. 30307

oneearedstagatl.com | 404.525.4479

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December 31 | Cook Hall | New Year’s Eve with Moontower

Ring in the New Year in style at Cook Hall with live music from Atlanta’s favorite party band, Moontower! The band will take the stage at 10 p.m. and continue playing all the way into 2015! There is no cover charge for this event. Cook Hall will be serving dinner until 9:30 p.m. so be sure to join us for our a la carte dinner menu with festive Blackboard Specials from Chef David Gross and toast to the New Year with a signature craft cocktail.

W Atlanta - Buckhead, 3377 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta Ga. 30326

cookhallatlanta.com | 404-523-3600

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December 31 | Proof & Provision | New Year’s Eve White Trash Bash

If you're looking for New Year's Eve plans that are awesome, free, and trashy, look no further! Proof & Provision is hosting their third annual NYE White Trash Bash on December 31 (duh), from 5 p.m. until your friends carry you out. Guests will enjoy free passed apps, beer cocktails, and an inspired redneck playlist. If you're still going at midnight, stick around and toast the New Year with complimentary Miller High Life ponies for all! No cover, no reservations. Just get here.

659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

proofandprovision.com| 404.897.5000

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December 31 | Livingston Restaurant + Bar | New Year’s Eve

Ring in 2015 at Midtown's favorite party destination, Livingston Restaurant + Bar, with dinner and a night of dancing! A limited dinner menu of seasonal favorites will be served from 5 to 11:30 p.m., compliments of Executive Chef Michael Semancik. Diners may choose between a three-course menu for $55 or a four-course menu for $65. A separate menu featuring small plates with a la carte pricing will be available in the Bar + Lounge. DJ Yvonne Monet will kick the dancing off at 9 p.m.and keep the party going into the night. The party will continue as the clock strikes midnight with a balloon drop and complimentary champagne for toasting. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 404.897.5000 or by visiting Livingston’s website at www.livingstonatlanta.com and clicking on the reservations tab.

659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

livingstonatlanta.com | 404.897.5000

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Mondays | One Eared Stag | Monday Night Fried Chicken

Chef Robert Phalen is teaming up with Monday Night Brewing for One Eared Stag’s Monday Night fried chicken. Each order will be served with three pieces of chicken and two side items for only $15. Guest also have the option of upgrading a whole chicken for $22 and two whole chickens for $32. This event will take place every Monday night staring at 5p.m. what better way to enjoy your Monday night than with plate of Chef Phalen’s signature fried chicken and Monday Night Brewing.

1029 Edgewood Ave. NE, Atlanta, Ga. 30307

oneearedstagatl.com | 404.525.4479

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Mondays | Food 101 | Avoid Monday Meltdown

Feel like you are having one of those days? We have the perfect fix for you. Avoid Monday Meltdown at Food 101 all night long. All draft beer, house wine and sangria are only $4.00! Do yourself a favor and join us for a pick-me-up tonight.

4969 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 30342

food101atlanta.com | 404.497.9700

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Tuesdays | Food 101 | Ladies’ Night

Ladies, come join us at the barrel bar for drinks. Tonight and every Tuesday is Ladies’ Night at Food 101 starting with wine half-off! Bring your girls, grab a drink and make Food 101 your weekly spot for Ladies’ Night!

4969 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 30342

food101atlanta.com | 404.497.9700

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Wednesdays | Food 101 | Wine Down Wednesday

You are almost there! You made it to Wednesday, so why don’t you “wine down” with Food 101! Each month we focus on a different wine region for our guests to enjoy. Enjoy a flight of 3 wines for $10 or $12.

4969 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 30342

food101atlanta.com | 404.497.9700

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Thursdays | Food 101 | Thirsty Thursday

It’s Thirsty Thursday friends! Do you know what that means? It means $5 margaritas, mojitos and Tito’s martinis. Grab your friends and quench your thirst with these great deals.

4969 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 30342

food101atlanta.com | 404.497.9700

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Sundays | Food 101 | BBQ & Bourbon Brunch

What could possibly make BBQ and Bourbon any better? The answer is brunch of course!  Enjoy our Sunday Smoked menu featuring delectable sides like our ranch style baked beans and southern cole slaw which washes down perfectly with our mouth-watering bourbon. But that’s not all; we have live music every Sunday from local bands! The fun begins at noon and ends at 3 p.m., so head on over to Food 101 for a sweet-southern Sunday.

4969 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 30342

food101atlanta.com | 404.497.9700

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A gift guide infographic for what men want!

This one's based on what men want, and what women buy!

Whaddup!
Before I put out my Annual Last Minute Gift Guide early next week, I wanted to help you out a little bit with this, well, informative infographic sent to me by my homies at Avalaunch Media. Using some hardcore research, this one is based on what guys want and what women actually buy. 
Here it is below and the link to it is here. Let me know what you think!

Hoppy Holidays!
Ale

SweetWater hosts "Drunk Santa" event w/ 5 different Festive Ales today!

They had me at Bourbon Barrel Aged Festive Ale!

Yo!
Man, SweetWater Brewing Co. is always doing some crazy sh*t and I love it! Here is their next kooky event to ring in the Holidays that pops off tonight at their brewery, Thursday, December 4th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., called Drunk Jewish Santa (I did not make this up), who will actually be on site for their tours (also 5:30-7:30 p.m.); everyone who gets their photo taken will walk away with a free 4x6 print to take home, plus he’ll be giving out some free goodies for both the naughty and the nice. 
And the real hook is how they are breaking out five specialty brews straight from their cellar and taps to serve up, including:

2011 Festive
2012 Festive
2014 Festive
Tennessee Whiskey Barrel Aged Festive

Bourbon Barrel Aged Festive 
They also have a Toys for Tots drop box; anyone who opens their heart and brings a toy will get an $8 souvenir pint glass ($2 off normal price). Sound good? Here are all the details: Drunk Jewish Santa Event

It should be a blast as always when it comes to SweetWater. 

Holla!
Ale

Argosy pours first U.S.Trappist Ale tonight!

East Atlanta's Argosy taps the first keg of the Spencer Trappist Ale at 6 p.m.! 

Read below on the strict rules of being a Trappist beer below, too.

Yo!
One of my favorite spots in not only Atlanta, but in the U.S. is doing it big once again. Tonight, starting at 6 p.m., the Argosy is tapping the keg of the Georgia's newest addition to the craft beer world, the Spencer Trappist Ale at 6.5% ABV. It's a crisp, refreshing, fruity Belgian-style golden ale and America's first Trappist beer (specifically at Saint Joseph's Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts) so this is a historic event. 

There are only ten Trappist beers carrying the prestigious ATP label (Authentic Trappist Product) according to their official website including Achel, Chimay, La Trappe, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle, Westvleteren, Mont des Cats, Engelszell, and, of course, America’s Spencer.

My homies Don, Armando and the rest of the Argosy posse will also be doing a pizza pairing with fig and caramelized onion jam, Chimay Trappist cheese, topped with arugula. 
Oh yeah, and you can keep the glass! See ya there!

*As an added bonus, I wanted to hook you up with what it takes to be a Trappist beer straight from the source...

The strict Trappist Beer breakdown:

Direct from the International Trappist Association, here are the STRICT requirements to be labeled an Authentic Trappist Product:

Trappist beers are one of the most well-known products which Trappist monasteries produce and sell commercially.

A Trappist beer is not the same as an Abbey beer

Of all the beers in the world, only eleven may carry the name “Trappist”:  the beers of Achel, Chimay, La Trappe, Orval, Mont des Cats, Rochefort, Westvleteren, Westmalle, Mont des Cats  Stift Engelszell,Zundert (NL) and Spencer (USA). 

The  "Authentic Trappist Product"  label

Ten trappist beers carry the ATP-label: the beers of Achel, Chimay, La Trappe, Orval, Rochefort, Westvleteren, Westmalle, and the beers of Stift Engelszell (Gregorius and Benno), Zundert (NL) and Spencer (USA).

A “Trappist” has to satisfy a number of strict criteria proper to this logo before it may bear this name: 

1.       The beer must be brewed within the walls of a Trappist monastery, either by the monks themselves or under their supervision.

2.      The brewery must be of secondary importance within the monastery and it should witness to the business practices proper to a monastic way of life

3.      The brewery is not intended to be a profit-making venture.  The income covers the living expenses of the monks and the maintenance of the buildings and grounds.  Whatever remains is donated to charity for social work and to help persons in need.

Trappist breweries strictly comply with all health and safety standards as well as consumer information standards.  Their advertising and communication is marked by honesty, soberness and a modesty proper to the religious setting in which the beer is brewed.

The procedure to receive the ATP-label

Only members of the International Trappist Association are able to submit an application for the right to use the "AUTHENTIC TRAPPIST PRODUCT" logo for a product (for example, a liqueur) or for a category of products (the whole line of liqueurs) produced by the monastery in question.
After the application has been received, the chairman and the members of the Board of Directors of the International Trappist Association will begin an evaluation procedure.
This can take several months.  The procedure includes assembling an extensive dossier, an on-site visit to check the production regulations and the quality demands as set by the ITA, and of course a tasting of the products concerned.

At the end of the procedure, the Board of Directors of the ITA will decide whether or not to grant the right to use the "AUTHENTIC TRAPPIST PRODUCT" logo for the products concerned.

This ATP license is valid for five years.

Holla!
Ale

Three Taverns and Holeman & Finch have a Beer Dinner this Sunday!

It’s time to eat, drink, and be merry!

I’m baaaaaack!

I appreciate you bearing with my hiatus of posts. I hit up Baltimore to see my people and indulge in a ridiculous amount of the real deal Maryland crab cakes—my absolute favorite thing to eat—along with great suds for the past few days. 

Well I am back in Atlanta and preparing to hit you, my cherished readers, with an awesome roster of happenings, my annual Last-Minute Gift Guide, the best beers to buy for the season, and numerous other entertaining festivities for the holidays.

First up, Holeman and Finch Public House is hosting a celebratory beer dinner with one of the best breweries on this side of the Mississippi—Three Taverns—this Sunday, December 7^th, at 7:30 pm. They will be pouring an astounding seven brews including the extra gangster Heavy Bells and Feest Noel to pair with five courses flaunting Chef Linton Hopkins’ renowned culinary mastery for a mere $70 (inclusive).

Holeman and Finch Beverage Director Dan Bollinger arranged the dinner and he knows his brews, so I am definitely in the building! Why don’t ya join me? To purchase tickets, hit up bit.ly/1xAbGai. Here is the menu to further entice you:

Reception @ 7:30pm

Single Intent (Belgian Pale Ale)

Feest Noel (Belgian Strong Dark Ale)

Crisp Falafel with Harissa Buttermilk

Pork & Green Olive Meatballs

Dinner @ 8:00pm

Prince of Pilsen (Hoppy Pilsner)

Crottin De Chavignol with Toast and Smoked Onion Jam

La Peche Mode (Peach Saison)

Cured Trout with Orange Juniper Buttermilk and Herbs

Tripel Reserve (Belgian Tripel Aged in Red Wine Barrels)

Cabbage Wrapped Guinea Hen with Red Wine Reduction

Heavy Bells (Bourbon-Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad)

Heritage Sea Island Pea Cassoulet

Theophan The Recluse (Belgian Stout)

Chocolate Mousse with Hazelnuts and Caramel

Look for more Holiday festivities soon!

Your homey,

Ale

Check out this Woodchuck Cider Dinner coming up!

Only five seats are left!

Whaddup!!!

There are going to be a lot of great dinners coming up because as we all know, the holidays make us want to eat, drink and be merry!

Well here is an original dining event on Monday, November 24th at 6:30 p.m., because it features the great sips coming from Woodchuck Cider in Middlebury, Vermont. I visited their digs and filmed a Cruisin' For A Brewsin' episode with T. MAC there a few months back and I can tell ya, they are legit with the apples! Anyway, try and score one of the five seats left if you can by calling 770.965.8100. I heard that the Antebellum Restaurant in Flowery Branch is all of that and a bag of chips! Here is the menu:

Course 1 - Wild blue crab with granny smith apple "water," curry, mint and pomegranate paired with Woodchuck Granny Smith.

Course 2 - Wild greens with roasted squash, country ham, cranberries, oats and goat cheese with a maple vinaigrette paired with Woodchuck Fall Harvest.

Course 3 - Pan seared wild scallop, parsnip puree, vanilla bean, winter fruit and coriander paired with Woodchuck Winter Chill.

Course 4 - Pan seared duck breast with sweet potato ravioli, wild mushrooms, honey poached cranberries and madeira jus paired with Woodchuck Private Reserve Barrel Select.

Course 5 - Butternut squash ice cream with cranberry, gingersnap and toasted pumpkin seeds paired with Woodchuck Cellar Series Ginger.

I will see you there. 

Cheers!
Ale

There's a Beer Fest and gangster Art Show today!

Today is going to be nuts!

I am suiting up for a day of beer sippin’ and art gawking as Atlanta hosts the 2^nd Annual Ponce de Leon Beer Fest at the Yaraab Shriner’s Temple starting at noon for VIP, and then it’s on to the Splendid Playground Art Exhibit and debut of the extraordinary and downright funky Hanging Horse Studio my creative agency AllWays Open is putting on with the artists from 6 to 11 p.m.! (It's next to Mattress Lofts and across the street from Augustine's and Oakland Cemetery.) There will be refreshments courtesy of SVEDKA and New Belgium, bites hooked up by the award-winning Chef Simone, DJ Chris Devoe spinning, and some other surprises. It is free (including parking) but donations for this community event are always welcome so support Atlanta art!

Here is the official press release. The list of talent is absolutely bananas! Check it:

The Splendid Playground Art Exhibit

Saturday, November 15, 2014, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Hanging Horse Studio (next to the former Eye Drum)

290 Martin Luther King Jr Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

AllWays Open Creative unveils Hanging Horse Studios featuring the work of Todd Alexander, Joseph Guay, Esteban Patino, Michi Meko, Miya Bailey, Mike Black, Aaron Whitehouse, and David Huff.

With the plethora of art museums and galleries abundant throughout Atlanta, Georgia, creative agency and event specialists AllWays Open discovered an eccentric, historic, and graciously bizarre location unlike any other. Serving as a substantial part of the Mattress Factory Lofts in the Grant Park district, lies an industrial complex housing the work of some of the city’s most talented and revered artists—Esteban Patino, Todd Alexander, and Joseph Guay. Besides the artists’ work, perhaps the most prominent fixture inside the studio is the bust of a full-sized horse suspended from the ceiling claiming its namesake, Hanging Horse Studios. On November 15, 2014 starting at 6 p.m., the Splendid Playground Art Exhibit will feature an unprecedented collection of painters, photographers, and sculptors. Along with the aforementioned trio of Patino, Alexander, and Guay, guests will be treated to the visual brilliance of Michi Meko, Miya Bailey, Mike Black, Aaron Whitehouse, and David Huff.

With more than 10,000 square feet of floor space, ceilings reaching 40 feet high, and a rustic interior any art enthusiast, photographer, collector or open mind would appreciate, the result is the first official art exhibition of Hanging Horse Studios produced by AllWays Open Creative.

Splendid Playground is the perfect juxtaposition for what this event will represent—an amalgam of artistic sophistication and unadulterated brilliance. Artwork includes:

·         Todd Alexander’s mixed-media pieces

·         Joseph Guay’s photography

·         Mike Black’s installations

·         Esteban Patino’s three-dimensional work and multilayered paintings

·         Miya Bailey’s paintings

·         Aaron Whitehouse’s resin-based pieces

·         Art icon Michi Meko’s “multidisciplinary” southern-spirited art

Hanging Horse Studio’s heterogeneous décor reflects an artistic freedom unmatched by any other gallery in Atlanta.

Don’t miss one of the city’s best DJs on the ones and twos, Chris Devoe (Mother, Sound Table, Loews Atlanta Hotel), an adventurous list of libations courtesy of SVEDKA Vodka and New Belgium craft beers to quench the thirst of the diverse audience of thrill seekers, and bites by award-winning Chef Simone. This is one not to be missed.

San Diego Craft Breweries Green Flash and Alpine Unite!

Left to right, it's Chuck Silva (Green Flash Brewmaster), Pat McIlhenney (President, Brewmaster - Alpine Beer Company), and Mike Hinkley (Green Flash Co-Founder and CEO) toasting off their venture.

Green Flash and Alpine Beer Company join forces for the good of the craft brew world. Yes!

Hey y’all!

As many of you know, I am a big fan of San Diego, California-based breweries and when I heard that two great ones in the region—Green Flash and Alpine Beer Company—formed an alliance, I had to show love. Usually when we dedicated craft beer lovers hear about breweries being "acquired," there is a deep breath and the assumption that, shall we say, a macro brewery bought them out. This is a bit refreshing, yes? 

Please see the official press release below. They all look like happy campers to me. Brewers unite!

Cheers!

Ale

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San Diego-Based Craft Breweries Celebrate Strength in Unity

Green Flash Brewing Co. acquires Alpine Beer Co.

Sharing Resources and Wisdom, A San Diego Craft Beer Alliance Is Formed

At Alpine Beer Company this morning, Green Flash founders, Mike and Lisa Hinkley and Alpine Beer Company founders, Pat and Val McIlhenney announced that their breweries will join forces, teaming up to share resources, knowledge and experience.  Both the McIlhenneys and the Hinkleys view the affiliation as mutually beneficial, and are committed to supporting each other for the success of both breweries.  Each company will remain independently operated and maintain its distinct brand and culture.  Pat will remain Alpine’s President and Brewmaster to oversee all operations of Alpine Beer Company while also ensuring Alpine beers continue to meet his unwavering standard of quality, whether brewed at the Alpine or Green Flash facilities.  The most notable change will transpire over the next several years, as Alpine beer will become available to their legions of fans from across the country who have only experienced the greatness of Alpine beers while visiting California. 

In a “handshake agreement,” Green Flash began brewing Alpine beer in November 2013 at their San Diego facility with the goal of helping longtime friends at Alpine raise capital to expand their production capacity.  Green Flash has been producing three of Alpine’s brews (Nelson, Hoppy Birthday and Duet), increasing Alpine annual production from 1500 to 3000 BBLs. 

The experience of brewing together has been a successful learning experience for both breweries.  Green Flash Brewmaster, Chuck Silva divulged, “It was both intriguing and challenging to meld our philosophies while we worked together to scale up Pat’s recipes to be brewed in larger quantities.  We worked together to stay true to the original beer and were very happy with the ultimate results. Working with a close friend is a real treat, but for me, brewing with Pat and making Alpine beers, is yet another highlight of my brewing career in San Diego.”

The successful arrangement they have shared over the past year was the impetus that prompted the breweries to take their relationship to the next level. Each views the partnership as an organic evolution that will benefit both of their operations in many ways. “Our team was thrilled to be able to brew the awesome beer from Alpine when we began teaming up,” says Mike Hinkley of Green Flash.  “The excitement of our brewers is what prompted me to think about additional ways we could work together and help each other.  We perceive this solid new partnership as an incredible opportunity to continue to explore our craft while benefiting from the passion and experience of Pat McIlhenney.” 

“After working with Green Flash for the past year, I have come to truly trust and deeply respect the entire Green Flash operation – Chuck and all of their brewers are meticulous, yet easygoing, and I am comfortable working with the team,” says Pat McIlhenney of Alpine Beer Co. “There are many benefits in teaming up with Green Flash as a partner. Not only are they committed to producing high-quality beer, the company culture and mom and pop roots of Green Flash are very similar to our own.”

Alpine employees 20 people, is distributed exclusively in California with the ability to produce a maximum of 1500 BBLs from their San Diego County brew-house, with most of their beer sold directly from their on-site pub.  Brewing capacity limitations have made it impossible for Pat and his team to support the overwhelming demand for their exceptional products.  As partners, Alpine will be able to tap into the growing Green Flash team of talented brewers, their production capacity, access to capital, and human resources in operations and administration.  Mike added that “I am hopeful that the culmination of the next few years will be that, together, we build a new production facility in Alpine.  Maybe we will even brew some Green Flash ale in Alpine.” 

 “I know there is strength in unity, which will allow both of our breweries to secure even higher quality ingredients – we will be a great force as a team,” exclaims Pat. “However, the most important advantage is how this partnership will help improve the quality of life for my employees. For the first time, Alpine will be able to offer our team an excellent company benefits package including affordable health care, 401K plans and other perks made possible by this exciting partnership.”

In 2015, Green Flash will begin bottling select Alpine brews in 22oz bottles adding to the three current draft offerings.  Collaborative brews are already in Chuck and Pat’s top-secret conversations, so consumers can expect these to appear in their tasting rooms and at the best craft beer bars in Southern California.  The two Brewmasters are already talking about how they can work together at Green Flash’s Cellar 3, a special barrel-aged beer packaging facility that is currently under construction in Poway, and will include a cork-finish bottling line. 

Chuck said, “I consulted Pat and borrowed some of his ideas when I made our tenth anniversary Flanders-style ale, which was a great success and will be recreated at Cellar 3.  I am always on the look-out for ideas. With Pat and me on the same team, you can count on us to push the envelope even further.” 

Mike summarizes, “This partnership is win-win-win.  Green Flash wins because we are teaming up with a truly iconic brewery.  Alpine wins because they get to see their beers enjoyed by so many more of their adoring fans.  But most of all, beer geeks everywhere win, because Chuck and Pat will be working together to create beers that will blow their minds.” 

About Alpine Beer Company

Alpine Beer Company was founded in 1999 by contracting with AleSmith Brewing Company for their award winning McIlhenney’s Irish Red. Located in the eastern part of San Diego County, this family owned and operated brewery opened in 2002 in their little home town of Alpine. Since that time we have offered over thirty different brews, some barrel aged beers, multiple IPA’s and unique lagers to name a few. A tiny pub was opened in 2010 and offers a delicious barbeque themed menu. www.alpinebeerco.com

About Green Flash Brewing Co.

Green Flash Brewing Co., is located in San Diego, California, and was founded in 2002 by Mike and Lisa Hinkley.  Brewmaster, Chuck Silva, leads brewing operations. Green Flash is an award-winning brewer of fine, hand-crafted ales, and specializes in brewing assertive and distinctive beers, such as the nationally acclaimed West Coast I.P.A.: an award-winning beer whose wide acceptance has helped define a category.  Green Flash brews a wide variety of beer styles that are available on draft and in bottles as well as a growing lineup of seasonal and special offerings, including several barrel-aged beers, throughout the year.  Please visit the Green Flash websitewww.greenflashbrew.com for more information.

The 2nd Annual Ponce de Leon Beer Fest is coming!

Let's kick it at the Yaraab Shrine on Nov. 15th and then my art show after

Yep! 

It’s another beer festival in Atlanta and I welcome it with open arms…and an empty glass that need’s fillin’! I had a blast at the first Ponce de Leon Beer Fest (as you can see from my photos here), so it should be even better the second time around. Here are all the deets listed in the official press release below and a link to the full schedule. By the way, it’s all for a good cause at the Yaraab Shriner’s Temple, there will be six live bands, food trucks, and the festival debut of some new brew slingers—Pontoon, Second Self, and Prairie! See y’all there!

Oh yeah, my creative agency AllWays Open has an awesome art show on deck called Splendid Playground going on after, so once you are nice and toasty from the Fest, come show love here:

Peace,

Ale

Here is the official press release from the Ponce Fest posse: 

The 2nd Annual Ponce de Leon Beer Festival at the Yaraab Shrine

While the crisp, cool weather is in full effect you can warm your spirits with more than 30 of the Southeast’s best breweries Nov. 15 at the second annual Ponce de Leon Beer Festival from noon to 6 p.m. at the Yaraab Shriner’s Temple, located at 400 Ponce De Leon Ave NE in Atlanta.

A portion of the festival’s proceeds support the Shriners Children’s hospital, which provides orthopedic, burn, spinal cord injury and cleft lip and palate care to children under 18.

Newcomers Second Self, Pontoon, and Prairie breweries will be introducing their beers to the metro Atlanta market and the festival will feature six bands including Sailing to Denver, Sweet Auburn String Band, and Villain Family.

In addition to the beer, the festival will also have several food trucks including The Blaxican, Good Food Truck, and Cole's BBQ.

Tickets are $35 per person and $45 for VIPs, which will be privy to special seasonal, limited edition, and one-off cask ales to be brewed specifically for the festival. Tickets are being limited to only 2000, so purchasing tickets ASAP through the website is encouraged.

Doors open for VIPs at noon and general admission starts at 1 p.m. All attendees must be over 21 years of age.  No kids, no pets.

For those worried about transportation—it is a beer festival after all—SafeRide’s professional drivers will be available to drive you and your car home for less than the cost of a taxi. The festival will be providing free SafeRides to attendees on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested in a guaranteed SafeRide at a specific time can pre-book their ride at callsaferide.com.  On the festival's website is an interactive Google map with nearby MARTA rail and bus lines with links to real-time departure and arrival times courtesy of OneBusAway.

To learn more about the Shriners and the Shriners Hospital for Children visit www.shrinershq.org.

For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, as well as a full schedule of events and a complete list of breweries, please visit www.theponcedeleonbeerfestival.com.