*Guest blogger Derek Espeland
I was super excited to go to this brewery. One because I had never been, two because it was a considerable deviation from the formality of previous work related gatherings, and three I would be hanging out with about 100 co-workers from all over the United States.
I caught some crap as I left the bar with a flight of beer while my other much less sophisticated, knuckle-dragging colleagues chose pints to start their evening. Below is my review of what Republic Bierwerks had to offer on May 3, 2017.
Abide Blonde might be my favorite. A light refreshing, non-liver killing blond ale.Great on a warm spring/summer day. 5.2 ABV.
Mothership Amber Ale was hoppy up front and in the middle, medium malt, and mouth feel is smooth with a light grip on the finish. 6.1 ABV
Thirdly, Firefly Maibock was quite Germanic and light hoppy. 6.3 ABV
Inaugur Ale Spiced Ale was a “NO SHIT” moment for me. This brewery was tapped to make two beers for Donald Trump’s inauguration. I only tried this one, but wow! It might be one of my favorite ginger beers ever. It’s a ginger ale with a light bitter hop finish. 6.5 ABV. Call me a stereotypist, but like all Gingers I know, this one is trouble. The beer was light and lovely on the palette but sure to kick you in the soft parts if you have too much.
Nightmare Stout was next. I was a worthy stout with chocolate notes. Gnarly and delicious. If you like stouts, you will love this one.
Finally, Vanguard Irish Red Ale was very smooth, light, and barely malty with virtually no hops. Awesome!!! I loved this beer. I described it over the phone to my lovely wife in Alaska and she provided the following quote:
“Sounds like a real red-head: deliciously coy and appealing until they murder you in your sleep. Damned gingers.” (She’s Irish and occasionally colors her locks red.)
Brew Republic Bierwerks is run by a husband and wife team. He controls the beer propaganda (my words) and she comes up with all of the awesome beer. The staff were so friendly and took a lot of time to explain their brewing process, their history, and just hang out a little. They even let my bud, Steve, into the brewing room to gaze longingly at the brewing apparatuses.
I cannot appropriately describe how cool the staff was and how much time they spent with me. Even though I am just a sub-blogger on my wife’s coat-tails they provided me with some cool merchandise. A special thanks to Ryan Heisey, Minister of Operations.
I was the designated driver so I was only able to sample a small amount of what this place has to offer. What I had was very good beer. Anyone can find a beer they like at this Brewery. I HIGHLY recommend it.
15201 Potomac Town Place
Woodbridge, VA 22191
703-594-7950
Apologies to Republic Bierwerks for the tardy blog. May has been pretty busy with travel. I’ve been all over Alaska and am currently enjoying Belgian inspired beer in Talkeetna, Alaska. Another blog to follow.