Excursion: Short's Brewing Company

Recently, Kevin and I were lucky enough to spend a couple of hours at Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire, Michigan. Having heard nothing but good things about Short's (several of our friends practically swoon at the mere mention of the name), it would be fair to say that we had high expectations going in. Fortunately for us, though, I think we can confidently assert that Short's delivered on not one, but two (and actually probably three) fronts.

Call me a city-girl and a snob, but while I may have had high expectations regarding the beer, I wasn't expecting a brewery in tiny Bellaire to offer such a level of, well...sophistication. What struck me first upon entering was not the substantial list of unique and innovative craft brews, but rather the hip, artsy interior - warm with vintage charm and packed with character. The exposed brick walls are covered with local art, the stools are vintage vinyl, and there is wood everywhere - on the floors, the tables, and the absolutely gorgeous bar. Even the mugs for Short's mug club are made for them by a local artist - Love it!

Adding to the cool decor is the menu - innovative sandwiches and pizzas, along with lots of homemade goodies. Kevin and I shared a platter of pita with homemade hummus, feta spread, roasted garlic, and olives and also pretzels with mustard. Both were so delicious that we actually managed to ruin our dinner.

Of course, I can't forget the most important part - the beer! We love to share samplers, and this occasion was no exception, so we ordered a flight of five beers (quoted portions are Short's descriptions):

Nicie Spicie - "A Northern Michigan spiced wheat ale. Flavored with lemon and orange zest, three types of ground peppercorns, and coriander this balanced golden ale is crisp, refreshing, and elegant." Kevin found this one to be a little much in terms of spice (he called it pepper³), but it reminded me of bratwurst - in a good way! A very, very interesting beer with lots of pepper and coriander flavor.

The Soft Parade - "A blend of toasted rye flakes and malted barley fermented with 200 pounds of pureed strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries resulting in a sweet fruity delicacy. Intoxicatingly refreshing brewed special for those who enjoy their wine." Neither Kevin nor I are generally big fans of fruit beer, but we have to give this one points for being extremely well-balanced and fruity without being sweet or overwhelmed by fruit. Despite the 200 pounds of berries, the fruit was a fresh flavor that crept up in the background of this pleasant brew.

Pontius Road Pilsner - "High quality Wisconsin grown malted barley, blended with a small amount of flaked maize, produces a wort that carries a distinct flavor. Balanced in the kettle by handfuls of Perle hops, and doses of Santium hops provide flavor and a pleasant aroma." Kevin called this one an enlightened Pilsner, and I have to agree. They aren't joking about that distinct flavor and pleasant aroma, either. There are plenty of boring Pilsners out there, but this isn't one of them. I am currently haunted by this beer and mourning the fact that it isn't available at my local grocer!

Stellar Ale - "Brewed exclusively for Trattoria Stella of Traverse City, this beer is defined as a pale ale, but hefty doses of Amarillo hops make it more comparable to an IPA. Toasted caramel malts provide the sweet flavor that supports the intense citrus bitterness of the hops." I found this beer to be a bit over the bitter edge for me, but Kevin ranked it second overall in our tasting. It has strong floral notes, and will appeal to hard core IPA fans.

Hangin' Frank - "A toasted pale ale brewed exclusively with Simcoe hops. Light amber color, a medium body and plenty of earthy, citrus hoppiness." Despite its simple description, this beer was the clear standout of the afternoon (and the evening - we took a growler home!). It has the perfect level of hoppiness and beautiful caramel undertones. This is a good all around beer, too, that will satisfy many tastes and preferences.

Short's beer is available in retail stores all over Michigan, but if you can, a visit to the Pub is definitely the way to go.