Welcome to another edition of the Brew Review, where Freedom Rolling takes a look at craft beers from across the country. Today we head into the Green Mountain State of Vermont for what they have to offer. As with all of the Brew Reviews, please ensure that these, or any beers, are enjoyed in accordance with local laws wherever you may be.
We start over at the small city of Bridgewater Corners, Vermont, home of The Shed Brewery and their offering, the Mountain Hazy IPA. This particular brew starts off with the familiar scent of hops and a lighter yellow color, however the taste does not bring the powerful taste of hops that people would expect from the India Pale Ale. This one is a bit more subtle when tasting, though there are certain ways you can pick out the hops. It isn't the most exciting thing to drink, but it is an average brew that can be tolerated if it's one of the few available.
Off we head to the Champlain Valley in Burlington, Vermont and the Foam Brewers for the India Pale Ale known as Dead Flowers. The drinker will first be adorned with a light, lime-like color. Although marked as an IPA, this particular brew has only a moderate hop taste, masked by a very strong citrus taste that seems to come from a lime flavor. This balanced offering is a perfect choice for a summer day on the lake, whether just fishing or having a gathering, as everyone permitted will enjoy this beer.
Time to head deep into the Green Mountains, where Lawson's Finest Liquids awaits in the community of Waitsfield, Vermont for a Sip of Sunshine. Although originally brewed at their main location, production of this beer has been moved to Stratford, Connecticut. If you're a connoisseur that likes your hops, then this brew is certainly for you. Apart from the golden color that will remind the drinker of sunshine, a very strong amount of hops and an 8% ABV makes this a hop lover's dream. Although it may just be a sip, you'll feel like you're walking on sunshine with this offering.
As you continue to Follow Your Internal Compass around the country, hopefully you are able to find these, as well as many other craft beers to enjoy.
Looking for a nice breakfast spot? Try this place on for size.
Welcome to Papa Pete's, Home of the Giant Pancakes. Papa Pete's is located along the Molly Stark Trail (State Route 9) near Bennington, Vermont. Travelers heading into or out of New England while looking to route their way around Bennington won't miss this conveniently located place. The building itself is a bit on the small side with limited parking if they're busy and you happen to be towing your home. Though they've since limited their hours to mornings from Thursday to Sunday as of the time of writing, it is going to be worth the wait even if they happen to be crowded.
When Papa Pete's says they are Home of the Giant Pancakes, they aren't joking around. Instead of a traditional plate, these pancakes will be served to you on a pizza pan. As for utensils, you can forget that knife that comes with traditional flatware, as they'll provide you with a pizza cutter. Naturally, because you're in Vermont, the pride of the state in pure maple syrup is included. They do have a "full stack" challenge of three pancakes if you dare, although some of us have difficulty with two. Even if you're not in the flapjack mood, there are plenty of other breakfast options available.
Overall, Papa Pete's brings great food and great value to the table. We found this place by accident, but were glad we did. Granted, our last visit was prior to the drop in hours so the lunch menu items likely won't be available, but it's still worth a return trip with the friendly staff. Even if you want to try their challenge, it's not going to break the bank, unlike some of the other popular "pig out" locations across the country. They do take pride in their cooking means, and it shows in the taste of their food.
So the next time your Internal Compass takes you to New England, give Papa Pete's a try.
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