Beer and Wine October Newsletter: Local Feature

Brian Wendt, Beer & Wine Department
 

Von Trapp Brewery, located in Stowe, VT, is unique amongst Vermont craft breweries: it is the only brewery in the state that exclusively makes lager beers. Lagers differ from ales in that they are fermented and conditioned at lower temperatures and for longer periods of time, creating crisper, less fruity beers. 

Von Trapp began operating in 2010, but up until recently their beers were only available on draft. In 2015 they opened their new 40,000 square foot brewhouse which included a bottling line.  Their current brewmaster, JP Williams, was hired in 2013 after formerly being the General Manager for Magic Hat in South Burlington.

We currently have their entire selection in stock in 6-pack bottles, which consists of their four year-round and one seasonal varieties: 

• Vienna – 5.2% ABV 33 IBU – An amber lager brewed in the traditional decoction method. Malty and tasty, goes well with burgers and BBQ.

• Helles – 4.9% ABV 20 IBU – German for “bright,” a light golden filtered beer that is crisp and very sessionable.  Pairs well with pizza and salads.

• Pilsner – 5.4% ABV 42 IBU – A Bohemian-style Pilsner, Von Trapp’s hoppiest offering. Spicy and floral bitterness is balanced by crisp, smooth taste.  Goes great with seafood or even spicy dishes.

• Dunkel – 5.7% ABV 22 IBU – A dark but smooth lager, full bodied but not heavy like a Stout or Porter.  Enjoy with German cuisine!

• Oktoberfest – 5.6% ABV 35 IBU – Their fall seasonal beer is a full-bodied, traditional style (Marzen) Oktoberfest beer.  This beer goes well with tacos or grilled pork dishes.