Brews News: Ladies drink beer, too

Got brews news? Contact Anne Fitten Glenn at edgymama@gmail.com.

Here we go:

Beer recs for damsels: My Southern belle grandmother used to say ladies don’t drink beer. Here’s hoping the definition of “lady” has evolved since then to include beer-quaffing mamas like me.

Occasionally, I toss out some local beer recommendations. This one’s geared toward novice beer drinkers and moms like me — those who need a little evening equilibrium enhancer but don’t want to overdo it (although I blame all recent overdoing on Asheville City Schools’ random closings, delays, and early releases).

So, ladies of the 21st century, when trying to figure out which beers suit you, I suggest you start off with a beer that’s not too beery. By that, I mean something that’s smooth and slightly sweet like a Belgian-type wheat beer. Locally, go for Lexington Avenue Brewery’s Belgian White Ale, Wedge Brewing’s Witbier or Heinzelmannchen Brewery’s Hefeweizen-style ale. These beers are citrusy, carbonated, and slightly sweet tartish. Craggie Brewing’s Solshine, a Belgian Golden, has a tad more bitterness than the others mentioned but is nicely balanced.

New Wedge release: Our hip River Arts District brewery released their Super Saison last week. It’s a complex golden Belgian made with wild yeast that comes in at 6.5 percent ABV. In addition to draft at the brewery, it’s on tap at Nine Mile in Montford and Brixx Pizza in Arden.
 
The Wedge also has added a cozy heater and some plastic wind protectors on their dock. It’s one of the best sunset spots in town, even when it’s cold outside.

Calling all home brewers: The judging for Highland Brewing’s annual Highland Cup will be on Sunday, March 7. Entries must be in by Saturday, Feb. 27. So you better have a great beer in the hopper. Again this year, the winning beer will be made by Highland and entered into competition at the Great American Beer Festival in Denver. For more info, visit www.highlandbrewing.com.

Brewgrass, anyone? We’re already planning for Sept. 18. That’s the date of Asheville’s favorite beer-quaffing, bluegrass-filled day of fun, the Great Smokies Brewgrass Festival. Organizers have announced the first two bands of their line-up: hunky Swedish bluegrassers G2 and local favorites Buncombe Turnpike. This year, tickets will go on sale May 1. Register to receive notifications at www.brewgrassfestival.com. Also, to put on your calendar: Asheville’s inaugural Spring Beer Fest will be held June 5, says organizer Jimi Rentz. Location and ticket sales to be announced.