* The Bier-Traveller Blog * - Bier-Traveller

Praha – A Second Day with Fred Waltman

Posted on October 31, 2015 by Hector

Once again, Hector was in the Curry House when Fred Waltman texted to arrange today’s rendezvous. I would arrive at Pivovar Narodni to greet diminished numbers and just I time to sample the dregs of the Tasters. Under their own brand name of Czech Lion I cannot say the Bier impressed, maybe next time I’ll do a proper review.

Fred wished to correct yesterday’s oversight and so it the Ubiquitous Tram 9 to Lipanska once more and a return for Hector at least to Pivo a Parek. Once again the place was quiet this early in the afternoon.

Velkopraze Pivo – Velkopezske – at 12° was Gold, unfiltered, as sweet as yesterday’s here….buttery. Diacytl is the term Fred uses to classify Bier when it turns out this way, an expression Hector must surely adopt.

A couple of blocks away lies U Kurelu, a rather impressive Bar in terms of layout and atmosphere but only four Biers. Two of these were from a bygone age, this left Light or Dark. Hector took the Opperchancity to enjoy the Malesov IPA at 5.3% (14°) which was had yesterday at Kulovy Blesk.

The location of U Kurelu makes a perfect Pub Crawl back over the hill to Jirihoz Podebrad, via U Sadu if one wished. Here one would be at BeerGeek once again, but not today, we had more new venues to visit.

Pivoteka Illegal Beer is off Zitna, three blocks behind Novmetsky Pivovar. Hector was back in familiar territory. We walked through the Chic Bar area to the more traditional room adjacent. There was five Taps and so Fred ordered a sample of each. The Waitress was particularly charming, she may not have experienced this Methodical Approach to Bier Sampling before.

Bad Flash – Hora – IPA at 14°was Hector’s Pivo of choice. There was a sense of Hops, but not as intense as other Bier had on this trip. This does not say much for the Lobec IPA at the same strength.

Almost around the corner, and on a side street up from Vodickova, again a reference to Novemtsky Pivovar for location, lies Jama named after the said side street. This is a seriously trendy Bar, the place was jumping, there was not much chance of a seat.

Vysojy Chlumec – Fly Cloud IPA – at 14° was my first Bier at Jama. Amber, nothing special to note but was sold in smaller glasses. The abv was not apparent at the time of serving, it was a Bier one could do damage with. Zemsky Pivovar – Colorado Pale Ale – at 5.4% was the Pivo of the Day, Bier of The Trip possibly. This was it, the Pivo I had been searching for. Dark Gold, with Citra, Cascade, Centennial, and Simcoe Hops, a Perfect Bier. I had another.

The Company was wilting, they had started earlier, the Chicken Wings had by some back in U Kurelu were wearing off. I bade my newfound Bier Colleagues farewell. This was a Bar to note, easy to locate, get here earlier next time.

It was just after 21.00, Hector could have stayed here, but to stand, uncomfortable, one drinks too quickly on one’s feet. I was minutes from one of Prague’s Oldest and most Traditional Pivovar, I hadn’t been in years.

U Fleku is not liked by all, but this is hardly the height of the Tourist Season The Pivo, the Dark Lager at 4.5% is the same as first experienced back in 1992, it was considered – Sweet – back then, so no surprises. This was a fine night cap and the overall experience was pleasant. I have never seen the place so quiet. Everyone else was in the back Beer-hall where the cabaret was still going on. Someday I’ll get to this, maybe not.

Back to Mala Strana, Kebap time.

The Microbreweries and Bars visited today:

Pivovar Narodni – Národní 8, Praha 1 – Nové Mesto

Pivo a Parek – Borivojova 58, 130 00 Praha 3

U Kurelu – Chvalova 1119/1, 130 00 Praha 3

Pivoteka Illegal Beer – Ve Smeckách 590/16, 110 00 Praha 1

Jama V Jáme 1671/7, Praha 1 – Nové Mesto

Pivovar U Fleku – Kremencova 1651/11, Praha 1

Link to Day 4 – Praha – The Fourth and Final Day of Prague 2015

Posted in Praha - Prague | Comments Off

Praha – A Day with Fred Waltman

Posted on October 30, 2015 by Hector

First things first, there had to be Curry-Heute. The Curry House near Palmovka Metro Station was in a new part of Praha for The Hector, During the meal there was a text from Fred Waltman to arrange a rendezvous. Pivo a Parek (Bier & Sausage) was the nominated venue. Arriving first to the empty Pub made things easier for me potentially. I should be able to welcome The Group.

Zatecky 7 schod at 13.5° had the Czech for Hops in its description, this is what I was hoping to unearth today, lots of new-style Czech Hoppy Piwo. The Bier had a dark gold, body, but too sweet, such that the hops were drowned in the sweetness. Not the best of starts, things got worse.

How long does one wait before contacting – The Missing? Fred assured me they were – out front – at Pivo a Parek. On exchanging addresses we realised there are two, they were at Pivoteka a Parek (Korunni 1075), let’s try again.

Three more venues were suggested, two of which Google Maps said were permanently closed. The Prague Beer Museum at Namesti Miru definitely exists and should be open. Was it easier to walk or jump back to the Centrum and take the Metro back out? As ever, the Ubiquitous Tram 9 would take me from Lipanska back to Hlvani Nadrazi.

This was my first Praha Beer Museum never having been to the Original which people tell me is the smokiest, most uncomfortable place in Praha. This second version had smoking in the Bar with a non-smoking room off. Despite being quiet this early in the afternoon, it was still grim walking into a Bar with even one person smoking. This is most certainly a Multi-Tap Pub, however, before Pivo I though to had better introduce myself.

Fred knows everyone in Bier Circles, I am honoured to be part of this. I was introduced to Tom, who has been on every one of Fred’s Trips. Jim is Fred’s brother in law, and Sam who I would establish The Core of the assembled Company. Some went shopping mid-afternoon, not keeping up with the pace. Fred’s Trips last longer than anything Hector could stomach, Bier from Lunchtime every day, until… Over the next few days this would be established.

I took reconsiderations for which Piwo to order. Matuska Raptor at 6.3% (15°) was – Beer of the Day – quite a heavy start, but I was in The Company of Professionals. Gold and Full-bodied, the Raptor had Hops but not – the Big Hop Hit – I was looking for.. Still, not a shabby Bier at all, better than mass produced Eurofizz. With two Czech Hops – Saaz and Premiant – plus two American – Cascade and Amarillo – one might have expected – a Blast.

It was at the next venue when the full Fred Waltman Experience kicked in. We turned left out of the Beer Museum and walked straight down the hill to Sokolska. At the bottom of the hill was Restaurace Kulovy Blesk, without knowledge from a List, one would have walked on by. There was nothing to suggest that this was another Multi-Tap Bar. Walking along a corridor we found ourselves in a Jerry-built covered area with a Bar. We were led downstairs to a larger Bar with rooms off.

Fred ordered Four Biers to share, his System being we try them all, then choose one to enjoy Solo. Two stood out: another Matuska – California, 5.5% (13°) and Malesov IPA at 5.3% (14°) were – in the style. The California was a – Special – from Matuska, with Saaz (Cz) and Cascade Hops, a blend of Czech and American Hops, here we go.

Had Hector been in his usual – Company – this would have been it, some would have insisted on staying here. However, this was a Fred Waltman Tour, little did I know what awaited.

It was a good ten minute walk along and uphill to Dno Pytle. Today is Friday, Fred assured me that on Friday evenings, Mein Host Taps Barrels of Buttenheim Bier. I was here to sample new Czech Piwo, but the Opperchancity of some Löwenbräu-Buttenheim on gravity would be irresistible. Charming as Mein Host was, not tonight too quiet.

Seven Biers were summoned, one from each Tap. Permon – Hopper Chinook– at 6.3% (15°) was what The Hector picked as #1 with Permon IPA at 5.8% close behind.

Finally, the camera was out to try and record – The Company – but one step at a time. Photographing the Venues and the Bier was one thing, photographing my Drinking Buddies would be a matter of waiting for the Opperchancity. Tom never appears in photos I am told…oops.

Up the hill took Hector to a familiar Square at Jihirod Podebrad Metro but a brand new venue – BeerGeek. This Basement Bar is as trendy as any Multi-Tap Bar in Europe, an Electronic Board too, how gauche.

The place was busy such that we could not all get a seat. Initially we stood at a Barrel at the foot of the stairs. The Fred Ritual was organised, 5 samples this time, 0.3l glasses. In time we managed to get space at the far end of the room. As this would be the last port of call today it was time for pints. Lucky Bastard India IPA at 6.5% (15°) stood out on the Board even without the Samples. This was followed by the Lucky Bastard Black IPA at 6.0%. With Hops to the fore in the IPA add Chocolate and Coffee to the Black IPA.

By now I had photos of the entire Company today, meet Jim and Sam. It was time to call it a day and I get to do it all over again tomorrow.

Hector still had something else to investigate this evening. There is a Curry House up the hill from the Ibis Mala Strana. The Taj Mahal Express was closing by the time I arrived, a Takeaway was secured. Wot, no Kebap?

The Bars visited today:

Pivo a Parek – Borivojova 58, 130 00 Praha 3

Prague Beer Museum at Namesti Miru – Americká 341/43, Praha 2 – Vinohrady

Restaurace Kulovy Blesk – Sokolska 13, Nove Mesto Praha – 2

Dno Pytle – Vinohradská 1485/63, Praha 2 – Vinohrady

BeerGeek – Vinohradska 988/62, Praha 3 – Zizkov

Link to Day 3 – Praha – A Second Day with Fred Waltman

Posted in Praha - Prague | Comments Off

Praha – The Planned Solo Trip – Day 1

Posted on October 29, 2015 by Hector

A flight from Scotland to Turkey for £25.00? Hector could not resist. The first obstacle was that this was the last flight of the season and so there had to be an alternative route back home. The second obstacle was that this Trip had to end this coming Sunday in order to be ready for the forthcoming Bock Tapping at Buttenehim et al.

One night in Marmaris, a Ferry to Rhodes and a flight to Prague on consecutive days was the most cost effective route back to Glasgow. The Sunday night flight back to Glasgow was the only leg which cost serious Cash. Nay problem, until…

Had I applied for my Turkish Visa at the time of booking there would have been no problem. Waiting until a couple of weeks before departure to discover there was not the required – six months – left on the Passport was not the best choice Hector has made. Having paid £££ to come home, I had to get to Prague, fortunately, the Thursday Flight was again at an attractive price, sorted.

Interaction on a favoured Social Medium revealed that Fred Waltman, Bier Guru and celebrated Beer Writer would be in Prague. We first met in 2011 in Bamberg, time to reacquaint ourselves.

Last time, it was a Bus from Vaclav Havel Airport to Dejvicka to pick up the Metro to the Centrum. This has changed to Bus 119 to Nadrazi Veleslavin. It is still Line A which one connects with, but two stops nearer the Airport. One can be in the Centrum within half an hour of exiting the Terminal.

Having checked in to the Ibis Mala Strana, it was back across the Vltava from Andel to Narodni in Staré Mesto. Novometsky Pivovar is a short walk from there, my preferred starting point on any Praha Trip.

Once upon a time, the Piwo here was not to my Palate, how things change. The other attraction is the Chicken Wings, the most simple of Tasty Meals, the Garlic Mayo adding a new dimension.

I was shown upstairs, a first, I have never seen the ground level so full. From my corner table I could see all, however,the first thing I noticed was that Chicken Wings were not on the Menu.

The Light Piwo was presented, I could have sat and had this until bedtime, the Accordion played Rosamunde and Que Sera Sera, Praha feels like a Second Home. The Chicken Wings arrived, if you don’t ask…

Retracing my steps back to Narodni, U Medvidku was found with ease. This has long been another of Hector’s Favourite Bier Houses in Praha since the first visit in 1992. The temptation to go upstairs and drink Old Gott which is brewed here was overcome, let’s stick to the Traditional – Budvar at a very affordable price. As I left I spotted the – Night Bar – in an adjacent doorway. The Unfiltered Budvar is served here, allegedly. One day.

It was time to try one of the new venues which appear on the updated Praha Bier Guides such as Bier-Traveller.com. Pivovar U Dobrenskych was a strategic short walk which could incorporate a night view over the Vltava. Walking down the steps into the Pivovar, I passed the Coppers and the Bar, taking a seat at a high table at the far end of this level. People were smoking. It was not clear if the Lower Level again was set aside as Smoke-free, where Food was being served. As we were only a handful of customers I decided to taste the Piwo and move on.

The Light Bier is Tribulus at an acceptable 14º. Gold in colour, full bodied but a bit on the Sweet side.

This was my first inhalation of other people’s disgusting habit since Athena. Why do individuals feel they have the right?

And so back to the Ibis Mala Strana where my – Courtesy Drink – awaited. Staropramen Lezak was all that was on offer. Sweet, horrendous, a Bier to be avoided at all costs. This fact hammered home even more by the fact that Hector has only ever experienced a hangover twice, both times this was the definite cause.

The Breweries and Hotel visited today:

Novometsky Pivovar Vodickova 20, Praha 1 – Nové Mesto

U Medvidku – Na Perštýne 7, Praha 1 – Staré Mesto

Pivovar U Dobrenskych – U Dobrenských 3, Praha 1 – Staré Mesto

Ibis Mala Strana – Plzenská 14, 150 00 Praha 5-Andel

Link to Day 2 – A Day with Fred Waltman

Posted in Praha - Prague | Comments Off

München – Oktoberfest 2015 – Mittwoch

Posted on September 23, 2015 by Hector

This is Hector’s Version, and he’s sticking with it.

Hector has been t’Oktoberfest twice, both times during the Glasgow September Weekend, full price flights, rip-off hotel prices in München. Lord Clive of Crawley has been the only Ever-present.
When Jonathan joined The Company so many years back he related how it is possible to go t’Oktoberfest midweek and not struggle to find a seat early on, move about even. Fine for those who can choose when to take a Vacation, for us poor Teachers, ah, but no more! Has Hector mentioned – Retiral – only in the opening paragraph.
Armed with #1 Bayern Tickets, six set off from Nürnberg just after 09.00. We watched the direct RE depart ahead of us, by changing at Ingolstadt we would save some twenty minutes. Many had the same idea given the volume of the Bier Cargo brought on to the train by those dressed in t’Traditional Costume. Taking Bier to the World’s Biggest Bier Festival… only in Bayern.
Arriving in München we expected to see the Hauptbahnhof Reception Committee for the Wave of Syrian et al Refugees, the Station was just it usual bustle. There was an ambulance on the concourse. Clive and Hector went to park Clive’s luggage, he would return home this evening, if fit to fly. Jonathan, Dr. Stan, Jim and Aileen went straight to the Wiesn. Yes, Dr. Stan! The Man who said – Never again. We forgot to bring his dress.
Clive and Hector had – Other Business – before any Festbier was consumed, this is Munchen, there is another priority – Food – and this – Food – has to be – Curry – and there is only one venue where – The Curry – can be consumed – Indian Mango.

Fischer Vroni is the only Oktoberfest Zelt that Hector has set foot in previously, though at Frühlingsfest others have been encountered. Is it really five months since Frühlingsfest? It was not difficulty to find the others such are the wonders of technology. A table reserved at 17.00 would provide the locus for Bier #1, the Augustiner. Superb. There had to be photos, there had to postings on the various Social Media, – Others must suffer. I have previously, it isn’t my turn, I have completed my thirty four years of work at a top West of Scotland Independent School. Maybe thirty five was the original plan and this visit was not expected until 2016, however such is the Demoralising Mess that the Scottish Education System finds itself in, – Exit Stage Left… Today is a/the day Hector has been looking forward to most for over a decade. The Augustiner Festbier had Edelstoff as the route of its name – Wiesn Edelstoff (€10.30) – Yay, we like Edelstoff, actually Dr. Stan prefers the Helles, he’ll never find out.

Being much quieter, between – Prosits – there were fewer Fish being prepared, Less Aroma, Less Atmosphere. Hector is convinced that it was the visits here previously which awakened the Taste-buds to – Fish – Fish Curry – and now – Fisch Chettinad.

Dr. Stan was pacing himself, Three moved on to the Ochsenbraterei Spaten Tent, we joined as soon as. One half of the Tent was full, again later bookings put people off these tables, were they here for the duration? The Spatenfestbier was also a joy, once we were served.

Doris, Our Doris, was deep in conversation with a fellow worker, two tables from us, same passage, we were ignored. When it came time for her to end her conversation she deigned to serve the remaining three Biers. Where the Musik in Fischer Vroni had all been Bayerische, Traditional, here we had to suffer the vagaries of so called Popular Musik. Take me home, Country Roads, to the place…

The Chickens are dead, we’re in The Zone

Once again, Jim, Aileen and Jonathan were ready to move on before those who have not been here for some years. Far right in the Löwenbräu Tent – was the message. It was now mid-afternoon, the Fest was Filling. The Löwenbräu Tent was at the far end of the site, the Laughing Lion is a Legend.

The far right of the Tent was stowed, Jonathan was phoned, they were outside, well inside but at the side, outside, never mind…. Just as we were about to leave – The Inner Sanctum – Hector, alert and vigilant spotted a gap created by departing Weans, we were in!

Only three momentarily occupied the table which should have accepted eight. The Others were informed, – We have Seats! The third Mass is never a problem, drinking it before it gets warm is the main concern rather than the falling over possibility. One can be – taken out – by falling bodies. On Visit #1, Hector attempted Impossible Gymnastics to get from his seat to the passage, the Resulting Debris cheered… just as well. The Band were just along from us, the Tent was Full, this was t’Oktoberfest.
Mathäser
From 1976 until 1986, the Mathäser Bierstadt was everything to Hector. Löwenbräu Helles/Dunkles by the Mass, a Band, that all could see and react with. Where Reinhard used to play. The side rooms (Inside) the Main Tent had Local Names, one was Mathäser, this stared at me throughout, I should have swopped seats with Clive.
As is the norm, the table bonded. A Brother and Sister from -???? – and a younger Chap. We have Seats! They were happy to continue the blocking of the seats so as The Others could join us. We found The Others inside out, outside in. It was still empty out there within the Löwenbräu Perimeter. There was a text – Olaf is here. By now, The Others had moved to a Hacker-Pschorr Tent to accommodate the new arrival.

Dr. Stan is a Very Naughty Boy

As we neared the end of Litre 3 Heute, Dr. Stan made a suggestion – We have seats, inside, why move? Bier #4! By now we were well in with out Table Associates, we still had seats blocked – We have Seats!

We’re on our way – was the last thing Hector heard from Jim today. The Plan was to rendezvous at the Hofbräu Tent where Jonathan assured us there was A Pit, standing service. Everywhere else, no Seat, no Bier. We have Seats!

Nearing 18.00, Dr. Stan again made a proclamation. Knowing that we were due to depart in time for the sensible 19.09 back to Ingolstadt/Nürnberg and we were all on the same Bayern Ticket, he suggested he go and we stay on longer. This message was relayed to Jonathan, Jim and Aileen. I believe there was concurrence. Clive would have had to leave at some point to get to the Airport. The Hofbräu Tent was calling. Exiting the Löwenbräu Tent I managed to lose Dr. Stan and Clive. There was a communique, apparently the 19.09 was re-instated. Jim had unilaterally declared it was time to go home and had left, with Aileen. Was Hector the only person still at t’Oktoberfest?

Spotting an exit, I could not work out why the closer I walked to the U Bahn Station, the further I was getting from it. There was a realisation, Hector would never make the 19.09. Despite having left first, Jim and Aileen never made it either. Dr. Stan and Jonathan were the only two on the ticket for five.
Hector had left the site on the far side. What was a Hector to do?
The Trusty DB App informed that the next optimum train was in two hours. How does a Hector amuse himself for two hours in München ?
Taxi –Zweibrückenstraße Bitte. Time for Lamm Chettinad. Nobody at Indian Mango was surprised to see me.
I still had over an hour, the Augstiner Gastätten had to be visited, one cannot come to München and not visit, also the Edelstoff had to be sampled, for comparison purposes.
With Steven Wilson’s – Hand Cannot Erase – uninterrupted, the journey back was gone in no time. Had I chosen not to change at Ingolstadt I would still have arrived in Nürnberg, but some half hour later.
Strange, all in all, this was a remarkably Sober Oktoberfest.

Posted in München | 2 Comments

Katowice – Fahren de Polen

Posted on July 30, 2015 by Hector

The Inter City Train from Warszawa to Katowice impressed all. Howard no doubt considered writing a letter to Scotrail to ask why they are so crap in comparison. 59Zl, a Tenner each, tickets bought the day before, none of this obscure UK Ticket Pricing nonsense. Brand new rolling stock, comfortable, clean, punctual. A waste bin sat at ankle height between Dr. Stan and Hector, lined with a poly-bag, hygiene. It was even checked/replaced as required in transit. Table service, complimentary coffee, soft drinks. A Dry-cleaning service was available for #1 Passenger who sat three abreast across the carriage. Announcements in English, this was Train Travel Century #21, Gerry Anderson would have been proud.

The clever travel trick is to have a train depart just after checking-out time at a hotel and arrive just on checking-in time at the next destination. Three hours is therefore the optimum journey time between any two European Cities. Katowice fitted the bill. Why are we here? Bernard couldn’t believe the decision, Hector knows best. Hector was out on a limb, the day could go tits up, still one day, only…

The Hotel Katowice impressed last October when Marg and Hector stayed two nights. Five minutes on foot from the station, at the edge of the still being refurbished Main Square, Rynek. Most were delighted to be reminded that we had paid at the time of booking, an even cheaper day. The Single Rooms were brighter than the publicity photos suggested, more than adequate, but no air-con. Open Windae’? Mosquito repellent required tonight. Yvonne has furnished us all with individual bottles of Avon – Skin So Soft, nice. We are a Fragrant Collective.

Katowice- The Tour

Heading right out of Hotel Katowice takes one towards the large arena of which the citizens are proud. Hector still prefers the smaller venue to the left of the Hotel where Pendragon and other Prog Rock Acts have performed over the years, we’ll pass them by, eventually.

A sculpture that puzzled us all had to be photographed, beyond this lies the Mining Museum. There was a crowd. (Sorry, Mr. Vonnegut) This is – The Place – to congregate in Katowice. All sorts were waiting to go underground, not us. Mags asked which direction the first pub of the day was. Hector pointed one hundred and eighty degrees to the direction of travel. Bernard no doubt told us a Brief History of Time, or even the Social-Political-History of Silesian Coal Mining. Kenny gets a mention, he is in the group photo, the last we see of him today?

Across the trunk road towards the University and the vista is pure Poland 1960+, hideous. Howard gets the blame for everything. It takes ages to cross any road, – death to jaywalkers – we are led to believe. We conform, just. Who wants to see the church? That’s it in the distance, it looks the same close up, only larger. Enough. Time to head along the main pedestrian street which is active already mid-afternoon. The Youngsters are out, drinking Bier, well the stuff we are here to avoid. We pass the spot where Marg first glimpsed her Musik-Hero – Clive Nolan – in October last, nobody is impressed. Along the main drag towards the station once more, we lose Howard and Bernard, not clever, Biala Malpa is in a lane off the main street. Craig volunteers to wait at the entrance to guide them in. Where is Dr. Stan, Kenny? Only Yvonne, Mags and Hector are at the Bar. The Taps are aplenty, there are but four Pump clips. WTF?

You have no Bier! Hector is in the shit.

It is arriving just now.

When will it go on?

Soon.

Available soon? Hector spots a Bottle in t’Fridge, an IPA. It is warm, just in. This is the most famous Pub in Katowice, Joe is texted, he must suffer too.

From the Available Four – Do you have something light, hoppy? Mein Host pours a sample of a Black Bier. No thanks. Draught Belgian Bier in Polska? Brugs Witte has to suffice, a Hoegarden Variant. Mags and Yvonne follow suit, Craig appears, he sits this out. Hector is in Deep Shit.

Dr. Stan and Kenny arrive, Bernard and Howard realise they have lost us… The Pump clips appear, slowly we find Quality Polish Bier. Now, Dear Reader, Hector has to admit that for the remainder of Fahren de Polen, the accurate Bier-Reporting will be dependent on photos of the Bier. The Trusty Samsung packed in, Factory Reset, data lost. Total Shit.

Even Craig found a Hoppy Bier he liked, the afternoon was improving as each Tap was restored. The Bottles had time to chill, the IPA. Imperial Citra – IPA – in – The Style. No Rowing Jack here, they had it in bottles last visit. Kenny calls it a day; he is not right. The afternoon progresses, slowly, a sensible pace. Two Venues promised for later, Robert, Mein Host at Browariat, is expecting us. C4 is en route. Curry-Heute, the last remaining Katowice Curry Source remains unblogged. Nobody else fancies Curry. What is wrong with these people? Hector suggest the others try Krysztalowa, Ladies, do not order – The Ribs!

No Curry-Heute

Krysztalowa impressed so much when Hector dined with Marg, Curry was abandoned, let’s Dine. A table for eight please. Doris and Bert were taken aback. We were asked to wait. Mein Hostess came from a different direction and welcomed us warmly. We were escorted to the Main Dining Room where two tables had now been set together. Who ordered Wine? The Ladies. Who ordered The Ribs? – The Ladies.

Howard ordered something Steak-like, The Waiter tied a Bib around his throat, sorry, neck. What did he know? Has knowledge of Howard’s lack of table etiquette reached Silesia? Craig ordered Soup, he raved about it.

Perogi, Dumplings, to share. Hector was not falling for ordering this Starter then try to follow with a Main, impossible. Dr. Stan would share, Bernard ordered a whole portion. Golombki as The Main, with Tomato Sauce, as eaten since 1962-ish. Time to remind Dr. Stan that Golombki was Dr. Rick’s Favourite Polish Dish. The Waiter apologises, not enough Golombki. We flip the order, have it to share as a Starter, full portion of Dumplings to follow. The Ladies struggled from the off with the Ribs, the accompanying Potatoes, the Side Cabbage. Who wants some? QED.

Howard showed the World that he has mastered the use of Eating Irons. Why The Bib? Howard remains the focus of attention, he can cope. Meanwhile those here for the first time are loving the service, the ambience, the décor. We are in the set of a 1950s Spy Novel. The Bill comes. This place, like the Milk Bars, must be Government Subsidised, the Prices are artificially – low. The Chaps paid Pennies, The Ladies paid for their wine, who else had a glass? Not Hector, Bier was calling.

C4 was located through the dingy underpass around the corner from Kryzstalowa, it is now a posh – Rum Bar. Consider Biala Malpa had not produced the goods and this was my fall-back…

Browariat

Robert greeted us as we entered, did we stand out that much? I had Curry for dinner tonight in your honour. Why didn’t he invite me? In Browariat there is Bier. The Taps had doubled from four to eight, something for everyone. For some, Bedtime was rapidly approaching. The Literature caught the imagination of The Chaps. CAMBA we all know from our Easter Trip to München. FourPure’s Wheat Bier was available on Tap, it was at this very place last October when I sampled my first Bermondsey Ale, tonight I had to have some Artezan IPA having had it at source. Paranoid Citrus IPA at 6.5% had to be sampled, as ever we were – chasing the Hop.

Robert showed us his roof terrace where Hops were growing in pots. Have you ever considered making Bier from Methi? – I had to ask. The answer was in the negative, however, the seed was planted I hope.

The numbers dwindled, Howard and Hector were left with Dr. Stan. We thought we were leaving when Robert insisted we share a bottle of Vorsicht Hopfen at 7.0%

Hector escorted Howard back to Hotel Katowice. Beware of Ladies twirling red umbrellas, they want you to go to places where trouble awaits, and no doubt Crap Bier at Exorbitant prices.

The Bars and Restaurant visited today:

Browariat – Francuska 11 40-015 Katowice
Biala Malpa – 3 Maja 38 40-097 Katowice
Krysztalowa – ul Warszwawska 5 Katowice

And so to Krakow.

Posted in Katowice | Comments Off

Fahren de Polen – Two Days in Warszawa

Posted on July 29, 2015 by Hector

Fahren de Polen aka – The Cycling Trip was conceived in the latter part of 2014. Knowing enough of Krakow, one has to be able to hike at a moments notice, especially when Mr. Holden decrees, or the clock.
After an interesting two nights in Katowice, something to do with Prog Rock last October, Hector dared to add a overnight stop in this trip between Warszawa and the five days in Krakow, it’ll never work.
Mr. O’Leary took seven of eight to Warszawa Modlin. Various people had described the complexities of getting to the City from the Airport. One source mentioned the Metro, but only if one lands at Chopin. Dr. Stan was on the ball, taxi. Indeed we found a taxi for seven with no difficulty. The advertised price was 159Zl, though there were no complaints when the meter ran on. A Fiver a head to cover some 40km.
The Ibis Centrum was found to be further from the Centrum than anticipated. Maps show the grid layout of Warszawa, they mask the fact that it is the main boulevards that stand out, not the intermediary sub-blocks. Dr. Stan had a list of Recommended Pubs from Mr. Holden, Hector has resigned himself to actually looking at BeerPubs.pl as a source. The nearest Pub to the Ibis sold the sort of Bier we drink when in Maroc, Eurofizz. This Trip was about finding the Perfect Pint from the ever increasing array of Polish Craft Breweries. One sticks in the word – Craft – and the Bier Price doubles from £1.00 a pint to £2.00. Better than Bermondsey. In Poland, Craft Beer only costs £2.00 a pint, or less.
Chmielarnia – The Land of The Hop

The Trusty Samsung aided the navigation along unknown streets, we were in fact walking along the western periphery of the Warsaw Ghetto as would be discovered in daylight. Arriving at Chmielarnia the ground floor bistro was empty, just gone 22.00, it was closed. Try the less than obvious entrance through what looks like a Community Hall entrance, as sign. Bon Aroma, Curry! Downstairs, a Bar!

The chalkboard listed the Draught Biers, a bout a Dozen or so. It was Dr. Stan who first spotted Rowing Jack (6.2%, Ale Browar, Polska), success. The Bier Hector has raved about for the last two years was available. (It was nowhere to be seen last October.). Five and a Half Pints of Rowing Jack please, Dr. Stan had something else.

Hector watched the Poland Virgins sat silently and take in The Hops. Not a word. One by one they realised that this Bier is something very special. By the end of the visit, Craig stated that this was all he wanted to drink tomorrow. The Green Devil Effect.

Where was Bernard?
Hector had been given strict instructions. Bernard will fit in and out of this trip as it suits him, I should not him. Craig required technology, Yvonne texted Bernard. Eventually Bernard turned up at Chmielarnia, not a Happy Chap. More Rowing Jack.
The Aroma was getting to Hector, I enquired. Too late, kitchen closed. (22.00) Tomorrow is another day.

The Locals were aware of an Invasion of Scots. Mein Host, Kuba, was warming to us. That we had known of Chmielarnia impressed. The Musik became very familiar – 500 Miles, By Yon Bonny Banks... A Bottle of – Something Special – was brought. A Doppelbock Dunkel. This was passed to Howard, very much his style.
Kuba gave me an introduction to a Landlord in Wroclaw, for when I get there. Easter 2016?

Closing Time
The Bottle of Doppelbock was opened and split around the table in small quantities, just as well.
Still, a great welcome to Warszawa.

The Warszawa Concerto

Kenny decided to join Dr. Stan on the first duty of the day, to buy the train tickets, for eight, for tomorrow. Bernard is coming to Katowice, the man who previously spent less than two hours there some undeclared number of years ago. Hector was navigating his way to Warszawa Glowny, Dr. Stan to Centralna. Kenny decided that his stomach was sending signals, he retreated. What did The Doctor know that Hector did not? Given that on my last visit to Warsaw, when I spent less than two hours here, I emerged from the station beside the Horrendous Palace of Culture I gave in. The shell of Centralna remains, the interior has been gutted. Like the experience of Krakow and Katowice, the Poles appear to have a preference for building Shopping Malls above the train tracks. Integrated Transport? Whatever next?
Eight tickets on the 10.45 to Katowice please, tomorrow. Doris first quoted 150Zl each then brought this down to 49Zl, a bargain. One cannot turn up at a UK train station and buy tickets so close to travel time as cheaply as this.
Dr. Stan went on his way, he had breakfast already. Hector was off in search of his first Warszawa Curry. Namaste was closest. No sooner had I sat down when Howard walked in, total chance. No Curry, or venue had been discussed. Hector and Howard would spend the rest of the day together.
The Metro

One can expect to use the Metro in any city by consulting the Topological Map. In Warszawa this is a secret. I had my 24 Hour Ticket, where are we going? Had I taken the time to consult a street map I could have worked out the various stations, but not the lines. There are two – M1 and M2, with one station where they cross. We boarded a Metro and alighted after two stops at the Arsenal. Good guess, we were moments from the Old Town – Stare Miasto.

In 1992, I walked round this in no time at all. Art and Crafts is all there was, today there are the expected Cafes and Restaurants, none of which purvey what we seek. Howard had been here already.

Bier O’Clock

BeerPubs.pl showed Pub Pod Barylka as our nearest plausible venue. Google Maps are not good in 3D. The Voice-Doris kept giving us conflicting directions. The stairs, this must be what she is trying to get us to use. Across the main road and finally, a Mainstream Pub, damn. A disappointing Kastel, despite the pump-clip suggesting – Intense Hops. We were the only customers. At least the Musik kept us amused: The Who for Howard, Ritchie Blackmore for Hector.

The Texts

Yvonne wondered if we were at a Pub. Yes. Dr, Stan was making his way to Po Drugiej Stronie Lustra across the river. Google Maps said it was – Closed Permanently. Dr. Stan insisted otherwise. Howard and Hector walked across the Vistula and found the street. Mags wanted precise directions. These were sent, a choice of four trams, first stop across the river.
Po Drugiej Stronie Lustra was closed Permanently? No Dr. Stan either. Why do people have answering machines active on Mobile Phones? Why do people never answer their Mobile Phones. BeerPubs.pl assured us that another Bar was a few hundred metres – Absurdu…

Eventually The Barman served us having taken care of paperwork. Two Draught Biers only. One was – aff. The other? His description did not sell it, another Lager of no consequence. By now I had spotted Bottles with American Hops from the rather poor array of Bottles on display. Ale – said The Barman.
This guy could not sell ice in a desert – was my observation.
Eventually Dr. Stan rematerialised. From Po Drugiej Stronie Lustra he had walked to our locus.

The decor in Absurdu was outstanding, carpets adorned the walls, there was a Mezzanine too. Quirky. We like quirky.

Three glasses of Wodka and a glass of Cranberry Juice were brought by Mein Host. Alex, the Barman, we now liked. Polish Hospitality – he declared. The Menu had said that every third Bier would be on the house. Was this? No a Chap sitting at the Bar had stood us these. Glorious.
The Bier drinking slowed right down. Another round of Wodka came. Howard arranged a reciprocal drink for our Benefactor. His third? We left, escaped, with smiles on our faces.
The next nearest venue was a few blocks away, Sens Nonsensu. Gone. A few hundred metres further on Lucyfer, Gone. BeerPubs.pl is not so reliable then. The Local Foot-soldiers need to provide better information.
Dr. Stan wanted to take a Tram, Hector insisted we try the Metro. Where were we? Where was the line going? We got on, we got off, we got on in the same direction again. There appeared to be contradictory information. Rondo – said Dr. Stan would be our objective, this meant changing lines. A map! Just the one. We were back outside the Palace of Culture, our next objective was on the same street as where Howard and Hector had Curry. How improbable?

Lemoniadowy– said Dr. Stan. We found the address, across the street was Hoppiness – a much more attractive alternative, Lemoniadowy only sells The Mainstream it should not be listed. Hoppiness must be new. They had suitably Hoppy Bier. It was after 18.00, the third Bier of the day.
Moments away was Bla Bla whose address did not describe the location. Perseverance can pay. More Hops, the day was getting better.

Chmielarnia was walk-able, but back we went to the Metro for a stop or two, such confidence. The Four were there, Rowing Jack was still on. We joined in. There was Curry on offer, we had to. The Fish Balti was Outstanding. No Kenny.

Hector had walked over 20km today. The Cycling Trip – QED.

… and so to Katowice

The Bars visited in Warszawa

Chmielarnia – Twarda 42 02-026 Warszawa

Pub Pod Barylka – Garbarska 7 00-306 Warszawa

W Oparach Absurdu – Z?bkowska 6 03-735 Warszawa

Hoppiness – Chmielna 27/31 Warszawa

Bla Bla – Nowogrodzka 22 00-511 Warszawa

Pubs we went to, but…
Po Drugiej Stronie Lustra – Jagiellonska 22 03-719 Warszawa (Not open until 18.00?)

Lemoniadowy Joe Chmielna 28A (w bramie) Warszawa (sells only mainstream Eurofizz)

Sens Nonsensu – Wilenska 23 Warszawa (Gone)

Lucyfer – Wilenska 43 Warszawa (Gone)

Posted in Warszawa | 2 Comments

Musselburgh – The Staggs – POTY

Posted on May 16, 2015 by Hector

Today was another in the regular monthly visits to the Staggs in Musselburgh by The Weegies as were are called locally, or The Company as Hector prefers. It was also the Edinburgh CAMRA Branch’s AGM. Hopefully they would not be hypnotised by Hanging Baskets and would award Nigel, Mein Host in the Staggs, his rightful prize. It is about time the Glasgow Branch of CAMRA was able to make an Official Award this far east, we did present an informal one a couple of months back. This is on display behind the gantry. POTY outside Our Area?

Five arrived by Train and Taxi Andy (Farewell, Rab, enjoy your retirement!), The Faither came later by Bus. Hugh and Willie were already in situ, the start of a Crawl. How could they leave? Look at The Board!
Neil and Hector kicked off with Bishops’s Farewell (Oakham, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire) at 4.7%. Dry, Blond and Hoppy, in – The Style – favoured by both The Company and Mein Host who always has an array of the Finest Pale, Hoppy Ales. White Light at 4.7% (Tempest, Scottish Borders) has been enjoyed on these premises previously. The Little Brother of Long White Cloud and featuring New Zealand Hops, this had to be revisited. On our last visit to Staggs it was suggested that Long White Cloud was returning towards the magnificent standard achieved some three years ago. Long White Cloud was tried at the Helensburgh Ale Fest last night, it wasn’t. My records also have White Light at 5.0% on my last visit. This set Nigel the task of finding an old pump clip. My records cannot be inaccurate, surely? White Light is way better than its Big Brother.
Craig had Diablo (Summer Wine, Holmfirth, Yorkshire) at a Session Ale strength of 6%. We enjoyed this at Source at New Year 2014. Full bodied, Dry and Hoppy, Sensational. These are the Ales we like.
The Main Event was another Oakham, Green Devil, again at 6.0% Along with Hawkshead’s (Staveley, Cumbria) NZPA, surely one of the Two Supreme Ales on offer at this time. Ironically, Green Devil has been on sale around Glasgow every day bar one for the past two weeks. Unheard of. The Peterborough Ale Festival will be covered in these pages in August. Hector will have all the time required to keep this Blog up to date by then. The Green Devil was in Excellent Condition. Again, Full Bodied with a dominance of Citra, or – Grapefruit – as The Duke insists.

I note The Company was here in greater force for this day last year. Dr. Stan and Chairman Howard were at Kilcreggan today. Euan now resides in Aberdoom, The Bier Desert. The Duke is in Kent. Still, there were some well-kent faces here today. George aka – Doddie – was down from Aberdoom. Jim Lawrie, with proofs of his latest book, sat with us. Eddie, our Favourite Local, sat with Craig for an Ale or two. Ron, who runs Eddie close, also joined us for an interminable time.

Nigel was happy to receive his award – Lothians Pub of The Year. What about Scotland’s POTY?

I shall introduce no more as my description of one featured Chap caused hilarity once upon a time. Forth Valley, I shall say no more.

Seven weeks to go? To what? I hope it is less than than that. 28 Working Days to go.

Taxi Andy took us back to Waverley. The now preferred Cross Country Train took us back to Glasgow Central which is much nearer the New Karahi Palace. Four for Curry-Heute.

Posted in Musselburgh | 2 Comments

Sheffield Park – The Bluebell Railway & The Bessemer Arms

Posted on May 10, 2015 by Hector

Prior to today, Hector was well aware of the existence of the Bluebell Railway, had seen it on TV Dramas but never knew of its precise locus.

As a regular visit to Crawley, West Sussex, it was known to be not that far away. This morning the bus to East Grinstead, the new northern limit of this preserved line, took the best part of an hour. There was a train south at Noon, minutes after Craig, Yvonne, Lord Clive and Lady Maggie arrived at East Grinstead Station. We were ticketed for Seven, where were Robin and Jonathan?
Maggie had bought tickets in advance, today is VE Day, numbers would be limited. We considered leaving the tickets for the Missing Two with The Gripper. This was superseded when Jonathan said he would drive to the far end of the line and meet us there.

The Steam Engine was facing towards the front of the Observation Carriage. The Five found seats with ease having passed people in 1940s costume occupying the discrete compartments in the other carriages. A train without a corridor, it has been a while.

Horsted Keynes was the main stop between East Grinstead and the far terminus at Sheffield Park. Here there was much activity on the platforms, musical events, display of arms and a Dad’s Army type display by the Home Guard. We would return.

Sheffield Park? Hector encountered an excellent Ale brewed by 360° on an Ale Tour of Lewes last year, what chance? Alighting at the terminus, there was no sign of Jonathan and Robin and very little phone signal.

Hector popped in to the Bessemer Arms and found Two Casks , one was the 360° West Coast IPA at 5.6%, the very Ale we sought. This is a Dark Gold IPA with plenty of American Hops, definitely in the required style.

We had time for the Swift Half, literally, for once. Jonathan and Robin were found and declared it was better for them to commence the eight hour drive back to Glasgow at this time. The rest of us would continue to play on the trains. There was a 14.00 appointment at Horsted Keynes.

As part of the VE Day celebrations, a Hawker Hurricane was due to fly over at 14.00. Delayed by a late take off from Biggin Hill, this gave more time to consider The Few, the participants in the Battle of Britain in which the Hurricane and Spitfire also had their Finest Hour. The Hurricane greatly outnumbered its counterpart in this Six Week Dogfight. A pity it proved to be impossible to photograph a fast moving subject with a non-SLR digital camera. Somewhere in the photo is a speck… the found photo may be more respectful.

We had an hour between trains, a chance to watch the Home Guard go through their motions. The Chaps looked authentic but their Officer was no Captain Mainwairing.

The Ladies remarked upon the smartness of the US Army uniforms. Craig and Hector cringed at the thought of having to wear the thick woollen British Army Battledress, not for our sensitive disposition.

We had to stand on the train back down to Sheffield Park where we knew the Ale awaited. This was indeed a bonus. Quality US Hops, in the style The Company seek. This time we even managed to secure a table and plastic glasses for the return trip back to East Grinstead.

Prior to boarding, Hector walked ot the far end of the platform at Sheffield Park to cross the Greenwich Meridian. What is Hector’s obsession with GMT?

The last train arrived at East Grinstead on time, but as is typical of public transport in the UK, there was no join up with the bus to Crawley. Still, Hector had Gatwick on his mind.

Work tomorrow, but not for a whole lot longer.

Posted in Sheffield Park | Comments Off

#1 Visit – The Bermondsey Beer Mile

Posted on May 9, 2015 by Hector

An early rise on a Saturday morning, there must be Bier and Travel involved.
News of The Bermondsey Beer Mile has spread north of The Border, The Company are based in Crawley for the weekend. Hector is resident with Lord Clive and Lady Maggie who graciously took us to Partridge Green last evening having gone the extra mile and collected Hector at Gatwick. There would be no cars today, we had to be on the 09.13 to New Cross Gate. Why this train? Why so early? There was another train station much nearer The Den but it did not connect with Crawley. We picked up Martin en route. The walk from New Cross Gate to The Starting Point was not a short one. Jonathan and Robin went in search of a taxi. New Cross Rd leads to Old Kent Rd, I’ve heard of that. London, whatever this concept is, all looks the same. Hang on, there’s an ironing board abandoned mid-pavement, better stop and take a photo. Whilst Hector was sorting the camera, Craig spotted a plaque displaying the record of a famous former resident. Sir Barnes Wallis! Inventor of the Bouncing Bomb! The Dam Busters! Hector Bounces Back! The day was made already and we hadn’t even had breakfast yet.

Breakfast was to be in Zampa Rd outside The Den, home of Millwall FC, it was not a match day. As Clive and Hector, the fittest in The Company entered the Millwall Café, a Chap was sitting, back to door, wearing a Brugs Zote t-shirt. Clive knew him, this was Paul a colleague. Coincidence? Unlikely.

Doris talked Hector through the Breakfast Choices #1, #3# 4… What happened to #2?
Nobody orders that.
I’ll have Breakfast #2. I was not the last to do so.

The Company Hector had met already and so I sat with Paul. A Bradford City and Hibernian fan, there’s Two of Them. Paul had heard of Mr. Holden but fortunately had never met him. Paul would prove to be a welcomed addition to The Company.
Breakfast took a while, Jonathan and Robin were well behind, two buses. The opening time for the Six Craft Breweries along the Bermondsey Mile is 11.00. It was after 11.00. And so we strode off towards the Bermondsey Trading Estate, home of Fourpure. This walk was not a short one either.

Oh look, South Bermondsey train station, whey did we not start here? There is a distinct lack of Curry Houses in this part of Southwark/Bermondsey, why is this?

On entering the Industrial Unit that is Fourpure, people were setting up Food on the right, the Bar was through to the left.
The IPA at 6.5% would be the perfect start, a Session Ale. With Cascade, Citra and Columbus Hops, this was right up our street.

Two Pints of IPA and 2/3 of something non-Hoppy for The Lady.
£15.00 please.

We managed to claim a bench and slowly savoured the Beer. By the time we had all assembled some were ready to move on. Returning the glasses to t’Bar:
Your Beer is excellent, but £5.00 a pint is taking the piss.
As I returned to my seat, Jonathan pointed out it was £6.00 a pint! This day would either be Abstemious or Expensive.
Hector was once asked by a non-Bier Aficionado – What’s the difference between Real Ale and Craft Beer?

About £2.00 a pint.

We came to them, Transport Costs were Nil, for them, and yet they charge Silly Money? Extortion. We don’t have to buy it, We will not.
On leaving around 12.30, the Food was now up and running – Dosa Deli.

What? Curry on sale here and I hadn’t spotted it? After the mass of Very Wet English Breakfast consumed at the Millwall Deli, I did not think I would ever eat again. People eat this?
I would return to Fourpure, for The Curry!
Follow the railway arches – was Clive’s instruction, next stop was Partizan. The advance party took one look. People were already spilled outside. The Beer all had Fruit and/or other strange additives, pass it by. Ironically, this was the only Bermondsey Brewery I had previously heard of courtesy of a Bar Owner in Katowice.

Kernel was next. It shuts at 14.00. We had just over an hour. This is the venue Craig was most looking forward to. Had closing not been imminent, we know he and Yvonne would have encamped. There was a short queue, time to study The Board.
No. 5 – Pale Ale Nelson Sauvin 5.4% sold in 2/3 at £2.80. Quick Maths confirmed this was not OTT. Fourpure, take note. With Nelson Sauvin Hops, how could this Beer fail? It didn’t. Right on the button. We love our Strong, Pale, Hoppy Beers especially those with Hops from The New World.

The Company had split, some stood at a Barrel, those who needed to found a bench. Eventually all bar Clive, Paul and Hector were at the table, we stood adjacent.
Clive managed to secure a round of drinks. Another IPA…… the Pale Ale Citra Chinook at a mere 5.3%. More of the same.

We can stand here and chat, or if we want another Beer we can chat in the queue. And so by the time time we reached the front only the Black IPA was available – in our style – and Hector has never had so many Friends.

Clive did ask the staff why they closed at 14.00

We close at 2pm because we get too busy.
Perhaps someone with a Business Brain may re-evaluate this Marketing Decision.

We were last out. Had they closed at midnight we would have been last out. That’s how wonderful the Beer was here. The staff were also very amenable.

Jonathan had gone ahead to the next place – Brew by Numbers. He was in the queue. Richard had announced his arrival and gone straight there, he had a Beer.

The queue was being marshalled by a Young Chap, but nobody appeared to be gaining entry. Inside was another queue, we heard. I tried to get to the door to clarify the rumours but the Young Jobsworth denied my sojourn. We were expected to queue to join a queue that nobody was monitoring inside? Sod-off! There is more Beer to be had, we don’t need the hassle.
Clive and The Ladies had gone ahead – Not to the Bottleshop – we were assured. Jonathan, Paul and Hector bypassed this and went straight to Anspach and Hobday. Then back to The Bottleshop to find it packed and everyone else in situ. So back to Anspach and Hobday – Oh The Grand Old Duke of York…

The queue at Anspach and Hobday was minimal, as soon as Hector tasted the Beer he had Jonathan, still at the Bar, order more, and we got a bench. The rest of The Company were at The Bottleshop. The India Pale Ale at 6.0% was good enough ot follow what we had enjoyed at Kernel. As a Philospoher once said – There’s no demand for Strong, Pale Hoppy Ales.

Eventually The Company was One and The Ladies were seated. Sour Dry Hop at 4.9% was calling, it had to be tried despite the lesser abv. Stunning! This was a Thin Geuze, the Lambic Flavours were there. More please!

We leave, they closed at 18.00, was it 18.00 already?
Further along Druid St with The Shard looming ominously, the last port of call, The Southwark Brewing Company.

Mein Host was quick to point out that they had Cask Beer, so in keeping with the CAMRA spirit, this had to be sampled. The Harvard American Pale Ale at 5.5% should surley have been better. The Citra Hops were not coming through. After Keg, and Lambic Keg in particular, the taste-buds were not registering anything special.

We had a settee, a bench and a table, in fact there was more space for the public here in comfort than any place visited today. There was also a single toilet with a constant queue. Who asked if there was actually someone inside and opened the door to find…

London Bridge train station was completely unknown to Hector before today. The Shard had been seen only in the distance. Here we were taking the train back to Crawley in half the time it took us to get here.

Maggie, Robin and Jonathan called it a day. Craig, Yvonne, Clive and Hector took a taxi to Clive’s Local – The Downsman, but not for Bier, they sell Curry!

Thereafter another taxi took us back to the Town Centre where Yvonne and Craig retired. Clive and Hector were still going strong. Dark Star’s Revelation at 5.7% was in keeping with what had been consumed earlier. Despite Copious Hoppy Beers and a Curry, the intensity of the Sacred Hop still shone through, astonishing. An excellent Ale.
Something Strange
Clive declared he – was stuffed – and could to put another thing in his body. Time for home, The Bluebell Railway awaits tomorrow.
Interesting Fact about The Bermondsey Beer Mile
Today Hector walked 13.4km. That is many miles.

The Pubs and Brewery Taps visited today:

Fourpure Brewery – 22 Bermondsey Trading Estate, Rotherhide New Road, SE16 3LL
Partizan Brewing : 8 Almond Street, SE16 3LR
Kernel Brewery : Arch 11 Dockley Road Industrial Estate, SE16 3SF
Brew by Numbers : 79 Enid Street, SE16 3RA
Anspach and Hobday Brewery : 118 Druid Street, SE1 2HH
Bottleshop : 118 Druid Street, SE1 2HH
Southwark Brewing Company : 46 Druid Street, London SE1 2EZ
The Downsman : Wakehurst Drive, Crawley RH10 6DH
Brewery Shades : 85 High St, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 1BA

Posted in Bermondsey - Southwark | 1 Comment

Partridge Green – The Partridge – The Source of Dark Star

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Hector

Craig and Yvonne announced some weeks ago that they were going to That London for a week. The Bermondsey Mile was mooted, a weekend in Crawley too. Hector signed up for the weekend courtesy of Mr. Stelios providing Flights at a Reasonable Price.
The plan this evening was for Clive to met Hector at Gatwick on his return from work whilst Maggie collected Craig and Yvonne from the Crawley Travelodge. A Flight Delay saw Maggie drive the rest to Gatwick. Hector was collected and off we sped south towards Horsham, Partridge Green was the destination, home of the Dark Star Brewery, and the Brewery Tap – The Partridge.
Clive had phoned earlier to establish the available Ales. There was no Revelation in the building he was told. American Pale Ale would have to suffice.

At a modest 4.8% this was served Warm, not wonderful. We had come a long way to have this Ale at Source, a bit of a disappointment. Doris who was serving queried the Scottish banknote, we made sure the Pub had plenty by the time we left.

Robin and Jonathan made it eventually, by car, and bearing Stornoway Black Pudding. Maggie appears to be looking forward to sampling, the Black Pudding. We now had two drivers, and even more Scottish banknotes. Maggie even managed to thrash Craog at Pool. We must arrange for her to play Bernard.

Then the American Pale Ale went off and Revelation at a much better 5.7% came on. So much for the previous information. This Ale was Fresh, Cool, Quaffable, the night dramatically improved.

There was a consensus that the place was a bit run down. Having been here once before in winter, there was a much better atmosphere. A good night, not a great one. And thanks to Maggie for being our driver. I hope she enjoyed her tea.

The Brewery Tap visited today:

The Partridge : Church Rd., Partridge Green, Horsham, RH13 8GW

Posted in Partridge Green | Comments Off

Bier-Traveller

Praha – A Second Day with Fred Waltman

Praha – A Day with Fred Waltman

Praha – The Planned Solo Trip – Day 1

München – Oktoberfest 2015 – Mittwoch

Katowice – Fahren de Polen

Fahren de Polen – Two Days in Warszawa

Musselburgh – The Staggs – POTY

Sheffield Park – The Bluebell Railway & The Bessemer Arms

#1 Visit – The Bermondsey Beer Mile

Partridge Green – The Partridge – The Source of Dark Star

Search here for Bier, Brewery, Pub, Town, City

Locations visited in the Blog entries

Archives

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Meta