OEC, Oxford CT

Wish I could make this, too bad FoFA falls on this date...

 

If you get a ticket and can do some simple math you can figure out that you most likely have a bottle(s), pick-up is basically until close. If by the math you see that you could be left in the lurch should everyone max out, well... that is your prerogative for time.

 

I wouldn't wait until close. On at least one occasion, unclaimed bottles were released later in the afternoon to later arrivals.

 

I have to say, I'm pretty surprised that these guys aren't getting more love. Visited the brewery for the first time on Saturday with a few buddies and it was a fantastic experience. Everything was great.

Perhaps they're a bit more under the radar than one would expect because they're different style-wise and not necessarily playing to what's hot right now? They seem to be very content with what they're doing and that's totally fine by me.

 

I've never been because they're open one day a week for a few hours. It's out of the way. The beer isn't cheap. I hear that it can be a zoo. Not sure how sales even work. Just such a different experience than any other brewery that I've been to.

I prefer to run in and snag cans. Not making a day of it. Is this place selling beer or an experience?

 

You can also order bottles in advance on their website and then arrange to pick them up even when they're not technically open.

http://wp.oecbrewing.com/online-bottle-sales/

I've been to the brewery many times except big release days and it's super chill. Definitely didn't make a day of it. Had a few samples, bought a couple of bottles, easy. No cans though, these beers are different and unique.

 

May have to stop by one Saturday. How is the typical wait on fills?

 

Fast. The only wait I've ever had is the actual fill time. But I haven't been in a few months, maybe someone else has updated info. And, again, not on big release days, I avoid that. Cheers!

 

Like others have said, the only time OEC gets really hectic is on high-demand release days. Otherwise, all of my visits have been laid back with no wait for bottles/fills/pours. Also, if you're not looking for fills/pours (just bottles), you can give them a call any day of the week to see if someone will be there to sell you bottles if you stop by (they keep the bottle list on their website very up to date). There's usually an employee at the brewery. I've done this multiple times.

 

^ what he said. on the costs, depends. it's one of the most expensive styles in general (sours). and read the description of some of their beers. you're not gonna get some of the beers at all or much cheaper. the one they released tues is $10 a bottle. they're usually open once a month then too. they'll likely add a few holiday time ish days too. it's probably posted on their site. or will be closer.

 

Any info on upcoming releases for OEC? Next Experimentalis?

 

Usually they're clear on what's upcoming on their website when it comes up.

 

Is there any trend you’ve noticed on how often releases happen, though? Just trying to get an idea for rough timing.

 

Usually every 3 months or so has been the trend.