Some people go on a weekend trip to forget about work. Not me. Whenever I travel, I always have my eyes open for local brewers or beers that you can’t find in high distribution. As long as I can find a local winery in the area, I usually can bribe my travel companion to check out a brewery; you have to keep everyone happy.
On this trip north we were recommended to scout out Moat Mountain for their beer selection. After a day of walking around the outlets and Main Street, it was time to unwind with a beer and pizza. If you follow the main drag far enough, you’ll notice a building that looks like a ski lodge and a great view of the mountains. Pull in and get a table on the screened-in porch. We ordered the barbecue chicken pizza, and I got The Taster. I’d love to talk about the food, which was great, but let’s be honest; you’re here for the beer.
The Taster is eight, 5-ounce glasses of beer from their lightest to darkest.
Hoffman Weiss – Lightest, a Belgium along the lines of Tripel, a good way to start.
Violet B’s Blueberry – Not a strong blueberry aroma or flavor, it was all right.
Czech Pilsner – Better pilsner taste than any Miller Lite, slightly bitter, smooth overall.
Cathedral Ledge Lager – Standard lager, very smooth and not too bitter.
Iron Mike Pale Ale – Bitter and a great pale taste, almost an IPA.
Matilda’s Red Rage – Great color, slightly bitter, average red ale.
Bear Peak Brown – Smooth, lighter flavor than the red, easy to drink.
Square Tail Stout – The winner, great smoky chocolate flavor, bitter aftertaste, best of the bunch.
I enjoyed the food and, most importantly, the beer. If you find yourself stranded at the outlet malls, don’t think you’ll be parched for very long.


