Hey guys, I'm headed out to the Berkshires this week Thursday-Saturday for the 4th of July. I'm originally from the area but its been a while so I'm not sure whats going on with the beer scene. What beers should I look for? Are there any new breweries worth seeking out? I probably won't have time to do a brewery trip so the other question would be where is the best bottle shop(s)? BBC Steel Rail is just about the only local beer I can remember drinking in the area. Also, I will be bringing some Hop Showers cans from Other Half along with me (plus I can bring stuff from my cellar) if anyone wants to swap hit me up, I'll be in Pittsfield--I posted a IP trade earlier this week: http://www.beeradvocate.com/communi...4-ft-other-half-iso-list.307631/#post-3815678 Cheers! Matt
There is a nice little brewery in Sheffield called Big Elm. Their regular rotation is solid and they have a few very interesting seasonal varieties. If you get down that way it's worth sticking your head in. I think the tap room is only open on weekends but I wouldn't be surprised if you found them at bottle shops in Pittsfield. I've heard there is a new brewery in Lee as well but haven't been over yet.
@bostonwolf are you thinking of Glass Bottom? Personally, I love their stuff--they don't have a standard beer in their lineup. They use some odd/exotic ingredients (Earl Grey tea, parsnips, dandelions, nettles, etc.) and do some great work in making them both prominent and blend well with the base beer. The owners, Ezra and Evan, are also nice guys and very knowledgeable. @Tbub18, definitely check them out.
Wandering Star is right in Pittsfield, well, on the outskirts at least. I don't believe they package, so look for their beers at tap, or visit the brewery.
Thanks guys--Glass Bottom sounds like they make some interesting beers! Also, forgot about Wandering Star--they actually send kegs to Brooklyn from time to time.
While you're out there, best bottle shop to check out is Moe's. Moe's Tavern, the bar attached to the back, also always has a solid tap list.
I'm not sure where you are staying, but the best bottle shop in the county is Kelly's Package in Dalton. Moe's is by far the best bar, and I've been impressed with Glass Bottom. So I definitely second those recommendations
