On Tap is a regular column featuring our recommendations on the most unique new draft beer offerings from local pubs.
Our Recommendation: Long Trail’s Maple Maibock
Where: Liberty Union Bar & Grill, 325 Simpson Drive, Chester Springs, PA 19425
On one of the hottest days of the year, I stopped mid-afternoon at Liberty Union Bar and Grill for a book signing by fellow writer Ronald D. Giles, who just released a novella called Locusts and Wild Honey. The car ride from West Chester to the village of Eagle left me thirsty, and anxious to review the bar’s fine craft beer list.
I immediately noticed what looked like a fine summer beer on the list—I had not yet tried Long Trail’s Maple Maibock. For me, Long Trail Brewing brings memories of visiting their first brewing operation during a ski trip years ago when they were still in a small dilapidated space in the Green Mountains. On this sweltering July day, just the thought of being back in Vermont was refreshing, and the idea of trying a maibock that has been fermented with maple syrup struck a chord.
When my pint glass came out, I was thrilled to see was frosted. And while I know some beer purists will debate whether frosted mugs are appropriate, this is one tradition I inherited from my beer-drinking father, and in this heatwave, I am 100% pro-frosted glasses.
Long Trail’s Maple Maibock poured a light golden color with a small frothy head. The first taste revealed a maltiness that followed through with faint hints of sweetness from the maple syrup. This is a delicate balance—not too sweet and not too malty, and definitely refreshing. At 6.5% ABV, you may opt for a second pour of this limited release that was introduced in May.
Sipping a Maple Maibock while listening to a reading from Locusts and Wild Honey was a good way to while away an afternoon during this blistering heatwave. If you have a chance, check out the maibock, which should be on tap at Liberty Union for a a few more days.
Upon returning home, I found this interesting clip of Steve Babler, Senior Brewer for Long Trail, discussing his experimental brewing of this Maple Maibock.
