Notch Brewing (2020)

I posted a podcast here a few weeks ago where Chris said it'll be delayed til next year.

 

We should be complete by year end but are targeting a March 1 opening in 2021.

 

Anyone tried the Kolsch from Notch and the Fine Line Kolsch from Suarez? How do y’all think they compare?

 

In the absence of hard data, the wife and I conducted our own blind taste test (for science!). Notch wins for head retention -- we didn't blind test that obviously -- but overall the two beers were tied. I preferred the dryness of Notch's Kolsch, my wife found the aftertaste slightly more bitter and acidity a bit higher from Notch; she voted for Suarez (she thought the acidity would pair better with food though). Overall they both had subtle differences, which is great because now I know I can save a trip out to NY and just swing by Notch for all my Kolsch needs!

 

Hit the Notch beer garden on Saturday. System worked very well, with one exception: lack of shade. On a 90*+ day, half or more of the tables were fully exposed to the sun. I ended up moving to a shaded table after being seated along the harbor (which has no shade). But, just be aware if you’re heading up, you’re likely to be in direct sun. Loved the beers, loved the space, loved the system.

 

I had a 10 plato czech pilsner from Threes recently.

Explain this to me like I'm five. What does this mean?

 

10°P is roughly 4% abv, which can vary based on gravity

…Notch Tenner is also at 10°P

 

I think the best quick description is in the BJCP style guidelines. Yes, there's a lot to say about these guidelines, but it lays things out in a pretty good manner for Czech lagers. You can find it on real page 4: https://www.bjcp.org/docs/2015_Guidelines_Beer.pdf

 

Must be my offers but it seems easier to trade for lambic than Notch lagers!

Need some distro in CT!

 

Unfortunately, Notch is poorly distributed even within MA. I believe they focus primarily on the North Shore and metro-Boston. There will be a second facility in 2021, so maybe more beer will be brewed for distribution.

 

Yeah, that’s unfortunate. I’ve been grumpy for years as they’ve used the Two Roads facility but didn’t leave any product for the host state

 

You are correct. The white label 16 oz. can four packs and Voll Project beers are from Salem.

 

God damn it I got a fridge full of Fox Farm, I've limited my drinking to weekends only, and they go and put the Kolsch in cans. That quart can of Kolsch is perhaps my favorite beer of 2020 so far.

 

I'll take some of that Fox Farm off your hands.