Iowa Beers besides TG

I don't think there is anything at all wrong with Backpocket's beers. I actually didn't care for Raygun all that much. The Anniversary Stout was way better on tap at the brewery when I had it when it first came out.

Big Grove is slightly above average IMO.

Millstream would be worth a visit just for histories sake.

But basically just like everybody said, Shorts for all Iowa beers, maybe Reds for a smaller but heavy hitting tap list, and also Sanctuary has some fun stuff on once in a while. Oh, it might also be worth the gas money to drive to Cedar Rapids and hit up Parlor City for a bar and servers that don't understand what the proper ounces and prices should be(they were pouring pints of Mirror Mirror for $8)

 

Yes, I assume he is referring to biggest by volume/output.

 

Yes, Backpocket is the biggest production brewery in the state. TG is the most popular, I don't even think that is a statement of opinion at this point.

And I have had the pleasure of all the TG imperial stouts.

 

Totally agree about the TG stouts. Not saying backpocket is mind blowing or anything but they have solid offerings to add to the iowa craft beer scene. They certainly don't deserve all the hate they are getting on here.

 

The barrell-aged stouts are of course delicious as all hell but my personall opinion on BP's anniversary stout was that it was a decent, normal stout; nothing more, as I wasn't even comparing to the great BA beers. Of course it isn't on a barrell-aged level and I noted that even though I'd consumed top-notch BA beers recently, for Backpocket to make a stout that was considered just "good, nowhere near great", I thought that somewhat impressive (though, maybe that says something about BP, in that I don't hold them to the highest standards?).

Also, I've never had any TG stouts. I hope to get some this year. But to say "go out and get some" is a bit easier said than done. I mean, I could just man up and pay $700 for the three of them, but once it went above $500 it was out of my price range.

I'd agree that us Iowans need some more greatness along the lines of TG's stouts (or anything they do).

 

What about Worth Brewing Company in Northwood? Does anyone have thoughts on this brewery & beers, do they fill growlers? I will be making a trip through Iowa in July & thought about a quick stop in Northwood. Thanks.

 

It is a barrel-aged stout though... So why not the comparisons? Also, TG stouts are hard to get; I would still argue a person could try other BA stouts that are better to drink pretty easily.

 

I thought it was only partially barrel aged? Like a 60/40 blend?

 

Gee Pintofbrown, I think I'm taking a trip out to Iowa City soon, just to wrangle some free beer out of a fellow BA. A lot of my beer buddies rave about Red's, is that the "try things from all over bar"? and Short's the local fare? I have been looking to get out to Iowa City just for a visit to Red's, but I have to have a good reason to go out there for my wife as she is not a beer geek like me, got any advice ie things to do for a picky Mrs?

 

I'm confused. Where are you from? Red's is 10 minutes away, and has a shit ton of great food, wine, whisky, and other spirits. Just go because it's a fun place. The beer is second to a good time.

 

Is Red's ok for little kids? I'm heading to CR for a grad party today and wanted to hit Red's for dinner on way back if its family friendly.

 

I thought Worth Brewing beers are good. Sunderland Mild is the best mild I have ever had. Of course I have never been to England to say that. They do fill growlers.

 

Thanks for the heads up on the Sunderland. I'll definitely stop & get a growler fill, I really enjoy Milds!!

 

It's a lively bar atmosphere but also has lots of tables both outdoors and indoors. I see kids at Red's quite frequently.

 

I agree with pepsican. Plenty of kids, most of the time.

 

You are correct! How does this change my point though? This is still a barrel-aged beer. If you are a brewer and are going to put something in a barrel, there is no reason that beer should not be judged against other barrel aged offerings. And Anniversary Stout should be better than it is, when compared to other barrel aged stouts, in my opinion. The beer is fine. I found absolutely nothing "wrong" with it. It just...it could have, and should have been better.

Maybe the beer they made is exactly what they wanted to make. That is okay too; it will just be exactly the kind of beer I will not choose to drink again. More for everyone else!

 

Cool man! Yeah, BM me when you get here, would be an awesome time! And yes, Red's just for general craft beer awesomeness, and Short's for the most Iowa Craft in one place, plus tasty burgers.

 

cool, I'll come up with a reason to go someday, what else is there to do in Iowa City?

 

I'm from Clinton, so it's over an hour for me