From local pubs to high end restaurants, the popularity of craft beer continues to soar. Need proof? The evidence is right there on the menu! The selection of craft beer is just as long as the wine list at restaurants and bars these days. So what distinguishes a craft beer? According to the Brewers Association, a trade group for American breweries, craft beer is beer that comes from small and independent breweries.
While visiting local breweries is something I highly recommend, New Yorkers have a rare opportunity to attend a tasting experience right here in Manhattan. Taproom No. 307 recently launched their Ultimate Craft Beer Experience, where beer enthusiasts utilize all five senses (touch, smell, taste sound, and sight) to sample craft beer. Attendees of the Ultimate Craft Beer Experience also learn about basic beer ingredients, traditional brewing processes and styles. The experience aims to help beer lovers distinguish flavors and increase their knowledge of craft beer
At the launch, we sampled a flight of five craft beers, including Zero Gravity Green State Lager, Ayinger Brauweisse, Half Acre Bodem, Allagash Saison and Left Hand Milk Stout. Each person was asked to smell, then taste each beer. Next, we were all asked to use earplugs and a blindfold while tasting to see if there was a difference in what we tasted. Everyone had their own experience, but I definitely walked away amazed at how utilizing a particular sense changed the flavor of the beer. The experience also included a unique beer and appetizer pairing. (Side note: the truffle mac & cheese here is not to be missed!)
Located in the bustling neighborhood of Gramercy Park, Taproom No. 307 is the perfect backdrop for the Ultimate Craft Beer Experience. The beer pub offers over 100 craft beers, including 40 on tap. They rotate the selection every week, so the options seem endless. Executive Chef Carlos Nuñez helms the seasonal menu, which can rival any high end restaurant. Join their mailing list to find out when the next craft beer experience is taking place.
