twofraysbrewery

6 Ways to Treat a Beer Lover

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 01:28:40 GMT

Do you have a beer lover in your life? Are they an aficionado who can identify the hops, region, and brew technique with a simple sip? The great thing about having a beer lover in your life is you already know what to get them as a gift, whether it's their birthday or it's the holiday season. Here are some ways that you can treat your brew fan.

1. Take Them to a Local Brewery

The easiest way to treat a beer lover is to go to your local brewery. Brewers often have a very extensive list of beers to try. Many of them offer what's called beer flights. According to Best Breweries Near Me, a flight is when you have three to five smaller ounce servings of beer to try each one. When you sit down at your local brewery, you can often enjoy outdoor seating as well as a very vibrant environment. Even if you're not a fan of going out yourself, you may easily be converted by the fun atmosphere.

2. Schedule a Brewery Tour

Why not kick things up a notch with a brewery tour? As of February 2023, there are 8,164 breweries in the United States, according to IBISWorld. Brewery tours are great as they can show a fan how their favorite beverage is made from start to finish. They learn about the history of brew in that region and ask the local experts questions. A brewery tour gives an inside look at the specialized profession that goes on behind your friend, family member, or partner's favorite drink.

3. Buy Them a Pack

Now that we're deep into fall, it's time for holiday shopping. While you may stress over what to buy for other friends and family members, you don't need to have the same kind of stress when it comes to someone who loves fermented beverages. You can easily lighten up their holiday by giving them a special pack of craft beer with a bow around it. Why not give them several packs of beer to mark the holiday event? You can focus on their favorite brands or make note of some samples they tried during a flight or tour and get them some for their holiday gift. If they celebrate Christmas, you can even give them the gift of a new type of beer each day as an Advent calendar.

4. Host Their Birthday at a Brewery

Birthdays are the ultimate time to treat someone you love. What better way to celebrate the birthday of a beer fan than at a brewery? They can throw back as many beers as they like as they are the guest of honor. Have several birthday toasts along the way as you enjoy a comfortable and fun environment with plenty of delicious appetizers. Depending on the weather, you may be able to have your birthday gathering with outdoor seating. Reach out to Two Frays Brewery to learn more about our event space!

5. Give Them Merch

You don't have to just stop at beer when it comes to your beer fan. If someone's a fan of a particular brand or brewery, why not treat them with some relevant merchandise? Many breweries offer shirts, hats, socks, or stickers with their logo. Some of them also offer really cool beer mugs that your beer fan can collect.

6. Buy Gift Certificates

Even if you're not a fan of going to a brewery or tour along with your brew-loving partner, friend, or family member, you can still treat them by way of a gift certificate. Many breweries may offer discounts by way of certificates, coupons, or gift cards. Don't be afraid to ask if you visit one.

As you can see, you have many ways to treat a loved one who is a fan of a cold glass of beer. You can take them on a brewery tour or host a party for them at a local brewery. Buy related products or treat them to a drink. Whether it's their birthday, a special occasion, or the holidays, you have a number of great ways to treat someone who loves a fermented brew. For a fun experience and quality drinks, visit our brewery at Two Frays Brewery today.

5 Types of Beer to Try This Summer

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 12:49:05 GMT

Now that summer is here, that means it's time for long lunches and happy hours where you can enjoy outside seating. Needless to say, you'll want to find a nice, refreshing drink, and nothing hits the spot like a cold beer. Six out of 10 Americans drink alcohol, according to Time, so you should have no trouble finding a friend to share a toast with. As you enjoy the warm summer months, here are some beers that you should try.

1. Saison

Have you ever been to Belgium? If you haven't journeyed to the French-speaking country yet, you can get a taste of it by drinking this beer that originated in the southern region. This rustic concoction is also known as “Farmer's Ale” because brewers developed it to soothe the thirst of farmers during hot weather. According to Hop Culture, these beers come with a slight tartness and dry finish. When you drink a saison, you can have a beer that may be hoppy or malty and can range from light to dark. When it comes to alcohol levels, saisons tend to have a moderate amount, so feel free to drink a few as you enjoy outside seating with your friends on a summer evening.

2. Kolsch

Germany is known for its many beers. If you're a fan of brews from this region, you may be familiar with Kolsch. If you want something crisp and easy to drink during the hot summer months, this beer provides a light body and a refreshing taste. Based on our industry knowledge, this brew is known for its subtle fruitiness that produces a round and smooth flavor that many people enjoy. If you want a taste of Cologne, Germany — the region from which the brew originated — order a glass of this drink, known for its balance of fruity and malty flavors.

3. Sour Ale

Instead of ordering a whisky sour this summer, why not give some sour brews a chance? These beers get their name due to their tart or acidic taste. Beer makers create them by intentionally allowing wild yeast strains or bacteria to get into the beer. They may add the bacteria or yeast through the barrel or during the cooling process. Are you wondering what food you should order as you down a sour ale? According to food pairing experts, you may want to order one of these brews with potent cheeses, fresh fruits, seafood, egg dishes, or richly braised meats.

4. Hazy IPA

If you want a good buzz, a hazy IPA is a good choice. Compared to traditional IPAs, these brews have a higher alcohol content that ranges between 5 and 7%. Some may even be as strong as 10%. This beer type received its name due to its foggy or cloudy appearance. In addition to its aesthetic, the beer is also characterized by the creamy feel it makes in the mouth. Some may also have a fruity aroma. According to Learn About Drinks, you may also see this beer listed as a juicy or New England IPA.

5. Session IPA

If you want a lighter beer to drink over a long period without getting drunk, a session IPA is the way to go. As a matter of fact, this beer type received its name because you can drink it over a long session. It's a hoppy beer that only has an alcohol content of 4% or less. According to Learn About Beers, you may want to order a serving of pizza, tacos, or fish and chips along with your session IPA. This type of beer is good for balancing out greasy food, in case you want to indulge when out with your friends.

As you enjoy your summer outings, you need something perfect to drink. If you're a beer fan, you have a range of options to choose from. Whether you want a strong buzz from a hazy IPA or prefer to take it easy with a session IPA, there's definitely a brew that can fit your palette. When it's time to enjoy a happy hour drink or a boozy lunch, come to Two Frays Brewery, where you can enjoy a range of beers and comfortable outside seating . We look forward to seeing you, so drop in anytime!

3 Events to Host at a Local Brewery

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:38:23 GMT

Are you considering hosting an event at your local brewery? A brewery is one of the most friendly and colorful places to spend your evening. Spend quality time with your friends and family while you enjoy some drinks and a friendly ambiance. Here are some of the most popular types of events our brewery is happy to host for our local clients. Give us a call if any of these strike your fancy!

1. Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Are you planning a wedding for the near future? As you likely know, it's part of the tradition to go out with your wedding party before the big day. A brewery is the perfect place to go! You'll be able to taste local craft beers and ciders while enjoying the company of your friends. Especially if you're not one for tight crowds and loud music, a brewery is a great place to have a good time while still being able to have a conversation. If you schedule ahead of time, depending on the brewery, they may be able to give you a private area for just you and the wedding party to enjoy.

2. Birthday Parties

We all have a birthday once a year, so why not spend it having fun? If you or a friend have a birthday coming up, try to secure an event space at your local brewery . Many places offer outdoor seating where you can set up decorations and maybe enjoy a beer tasting. It's a great way to get everyone together and enjoy each other's company.

3. Work Events

As you might imagine, breweries are also great places for work events. Does your team include a lot of beer enjoyers? According to USA Today, out of the drinkers surveyed, a whopping 41% claim that beer is their favorite of all. Breweries are crowd pleasers with excellent atmospheres. It's highly likely that everyone will be able to find something they like. Plus, breweries offer a relaxed and casual environment that encourages coworkers to get to know each other better. You could even schedule a brewery tour for everyone to enjoy.

A brewery is the perfect place to enjoy a great evening after a long day at work. However, you can improve your experience and have a better time by hosting an event and enjoying a different experience with the community. Don't hesitate to call Two Frays Brewery and talk to us about scheduling your next event!

8 Tips for Navigating a Brewery Menu

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 15:00:55 GMT

Navigating any brewery menu can be intimidating if you don't know what to look for. With so many beer options already, plus all the new types being released every day, it's easy to get overwhelmed! Fortunately, there are a few brewery menu tips you can use to make the experience easier.

1. Know the Basics

Before you even start looking at brewery menus, it's a good idea to become familiar with some of the beer basics. There are several styles of beer and each brewery may offer different varieties. Knowing the differences between ales, lagers, wheat beers, and porters can help you narrow your choices. Some brewery menus will include descriptions of the different types of beers, so you can get a better understanding of what's available.

2. Do Your Research

It also helps to do a bit of research before visiting a brewery. Find out which breweries are nearby and what types of beer they specialize in. It'll help you decide which spot to visit and what beers to try when you get there. You can also look for menus online so that you know what's available before you even arrive.

3. Ask for Recommendations

If you're still feeling lost over brewery menus, don't hesitate to ask for help. Most employees are very knowledgeable about the beer they offer. Staff can recommend something that matches your tastes. They may even suggest something new that you haven't tried before!

4. Taste Before You Commit

Most brewery menus will include a selection of samples. If you're still unsure what to order, it's a good idea to try the samples first. After all, no one wants to commit to a whole pint if they don't like the taste! Sampling is also a great way to find out what you like and don't like to make more informed decisions in the future.

5. Do a Beer Flight

Speaking of sampling, one of the best ways to do so is with beer flights. These are usually four-ounce samples of four different beers. It's a great way to try new beers and find your favorites without committing to full pints. Beer flights can also be fun when you're with a group of people. You can chat about the differences between each beer as you taste them! It's even more fun when you pair them with food.

6. Think of Similarities to Wine

If you're more familiar with wine than beer, brewery menus may be even more daunting. However, the two have similarities that can help you make decisions. Just like wine, beers can have different levels of sweetness and bitterness. Pay attention to these notes on brewery menus to find something that appeals to your palate.

7. Consider ABVs and IBUs

ABV stands for Alcohol by Volume, while IBU stands for International Bittering Units. Both figures can give you a better idea of what the beer tastes like before you even try it. Generally speaking, higher ABVs mean boozier beers, while higher IBUs are associated with more bitter beers. Brewery menus will often have both figures listed, so use them to decide what to order.

8. Start Light and Work Your Way Up

Beer menus can be intimidating for even the most experienced beer drinkers. A good strategy is to start with lighter beers and work your way up. It'll help you develop a better understanding of how different styles taste. You can also gauge how strong the drink is. Then you can decide if that's the beer you'd like to order. FYI, you may want to save the stouts for last!

9. Don't Forget About Non-Alcoholic Options

It's easy to overlook brew menus if you don't drink alcohol. Fortunately, most brewery menus also have non-alcoholic options. These options could include anything from cocktails to specialty soda to hard seltzer. Even if you don't drink alcohol, brewery menus can be a great way to find something delicious and refreshing.

Navigating brewery menus should be fun, not intimidating. With these tips in mind, you should be able to find something you like. Beer is the favorite of 41% of those who drink alcohol, according to USA Today, so brewery menus have plenty to offer. You just need to know where to look! Visit Two Frays Brewery and try as many of our beers as you like.

How to Find the Right Craft Beer for You

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:33:50 GMT

Craft beer is growing in popularity with each passing year, with new breweries creating dozens of new beers. If you want to explore the world of craft beer, here's what you can do to find the right beer for you.

Choose a Style

The first thing you want to do when you're looking for a good craft beer is decide on what style you like. Some people like lighter beers that have a more crisp finish while others prefer darker beers with richer flavors. According to 2nd Kitchen, IPAs are the most common type of craft beer in the United States. If you're not familiar with the different types of craft beers, you can always visit a local brewery or bar to try a few out. Once you know what type of beer you like, it's a lot easier to shop around and try new beers from different breweries.

Find Good Breweries

Just because you like a specific type of beer doesn't mean you're going to like every iteration of that beer. Some people love IPAs, but they might not like IPAs from certain breweries. The next step is figuring out which breweries you like. Good breweries can be hard to find depending on where you live, but you can keep going back and trying new beers once you've found a brewery you like. Stop by Two Frays Brewery if you are in the area.

Taste and Learn

Once you've found some craft beer you like, you can start to branch out from there and taste new varieties. With each new beer you taste, you'll learn more about what you do and don't like in a beer. Some people prefer beer with a very strong hop flavor, while others like something with more of a malt flavor. As you take some time to try different beers from different breweries, you'll learn how to identify different flavors in beer and which of those flavors you enjoy.

The world of craft beer is an expansive one, with breweries all over the country making thousands of different varieties of beer. IPAs might be the most popular choice, but it's one of the countless types of craft beer . If you want to refine your artisan beer palate, check out the selection at Two Frays Brewery offers today.

5 Positive Reasons to Support Your Neighborhood Brewery

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 17:16:53 GMT

With the rise in the number of local neighborhood craft beer breweries, people are being introduced to all sorts of new and exciting products. While supporting small local brewing companies, their owners, and employees, people are discovering the joys of new products.

There are a number of reasons why supporting a neighborhood brewery is a wonderful idea. According to Statista, 12.2% of total beer consumption comes from craft beer with craft beer sales rising every year until the pandemic of 2020. Now that things have returned closer to normal, you can expect this trend to continue.

Let's talk about five positive reasons why you should look into visiting and supporting your local neighborhood craft brewery the next time you're looking for a fun, diverse location to wet your whistle.

1. Craft Breweries Offer Diverse Options Not Found in Many Establishments

When you visit a neighborhood craft brewery, you'll likely be impressed with the number of choices that are offered. Many chain restaurants or even bars stick to the basics. It's not that often that you find new types of craft beers that you may fall in love with once you give them a try.

Craft breweries typically offer a number of choices for beers you've likely never even heard of. Variety is the spice of life and this also holds true for beer. Give your local neighborhood brewery a try whenever you have the urge to test a new product, for a change of pace.

2. Visiting Craft Breweries Boosts the Local Economy

When you choose to spend your hard-earned money at local establishments, you're doing your local economy a favor. Small companies rely on having enough business to pay their employees and keep their doors open. Customer loyalty is of the utmost importance to the survival of many small or newer breweries.

Give a number of neighborhood breweries a try. You'll likely discover many new types of craft beers and may even decide on one or more of the places you visit to be a comfortable, fun environment for you to hang out and support the business with your friends and family.

3. Craft Breweries Are Fun Places

Many smaller local craft beer breweries are fun places to hang out. Chances are, you may find live music, trivia evenings, or even karaoke at some of these small local businesses. Add a few rounds of newer craft beers to try, and you may find yourself having a fun new location to call home.

You may even see your local brewery owner there many nights. Some of these establishments are family-owned businesses. You could end up becoming good friends with wonderful people who are committed to bringing awesome craft beers to their local clientele.

4. Craft Breweries Use Fresh, Quality Materials in Their Craft Beers

One aspect that many people enjoy about small, local craft breweries is the freshness of the materials used in making their favorite craft beers. The difference between the taste and freshness of a chain beer versus a local craft beer is noticeable.

Once you try newer, more fresh, exotic craft beers, you may never go back to traditional chain-company beers. Give something new a try while supporting your local neighborhood brewery and your taste in beer may change permanently.

5. Supporting Local Craft Breweries Is the Right Thing to Do

Supporting small local businesses in your area is a wonderful thing to do. Often, just having the loyalty and support of a number of happy, satisfied clients is all it takes to make a business a success instead of a failure. You'll receive personal satisfaction when going to a smaller place that you know relies on your business more than a giant chain restaurant or bar.

You are usually more appreciated and it's more likely to be a spot where everybody knows your name when you frequent your local brewery. Try one in your area and see if you feel the same after checking it out.

These are just a few of the positive reasons you should be looking forward to visiting more craft beer locations in the area you live in. There are likely more breweries than you think in your city, and along with some tasty new beers, you may find some new friends. Consider visiting some neighborhood breweries in your local area; it means the world to these small businesses. Take your family or friends and give them a chance. Stop in and see us today at Two Frays Brewery!

The Best Beer and Food Combinations

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 10:05:17 GMT

The right food paired with the right beer can be a match made in heaven. It's a perfect way to spend an indulgent Friday night or weekend. Today, there are a variety of beers an individual can enjoy with a variety of cuisines. Much like its more mature cousin, wine, a specific beer can pair well with certain foods. This article will take a look at the best beers to drink with different plates.

Different Tastes

Before we get into the actual pairings, it's important to keep some things in mind about the different tastes of various beers. There are a few descriptors often used for the taste of beer:

Hops: There are some very sweet and hoppy beers. Taste often depends on when the hops are added during the brewing process. If they're added early on, you'll get a more bitter flavor. If they're added later on, you may not notice it as much. There are also different hops with different flavors that pair well with fruity and flowery craft beers.
Light: Light beer is crisp and the flavor is usually not overly powerful. They won't be very bitter or hoppy. They have a lower alcohol content, too. They offer a balanced and clean taste to wash down almost any food.
Malt: Malt beers have barley grain that is roasted and added during the brewing process. It often gives beer a dark color and a nutty taste. There may also be notes of caramel, chocolate, and coffee with different malt beers.
Bitterness: Bitterness, while not always associated with hops, is still a flavor profile a beer may have. Some breweries use an International Bitterness Unit, or IBU, to measure the bitterness levels of their beer. The higher the IBU, the more bitter the beer.

Best Pairings

Now that we have an idea of the different flavors of beer, we can get into which is the best beer for your meals:

Light Lagers: Light lagers are an American staple with over 40% of U.S. beer consumption attributed to light beer, according to Statista. The refreshing and crisp beverage usually doesn't have powerful flavors, as noted above. Some light craft beer will prove the exception to the rule. However, the lack of flavor means that the light lager can be paired with pretty much anything. Its refreshing taste lends it to be perfect for spicy foods, too. If you're having Buffalo wings, spicy pad thai, or a Mexican dish loaded with jalapenos, light beer will treat you right.
India Pale Ales: India Pale Ales are more commonly known as IPAs. These popular craft beers are heavier in hops and so may present a bitter flavor profile. However, many craft breweries utilize fruits and other flavors to balance out the hops. The range of flavors modern IPAs offer is robust, and you will probably be able to find one that fits with any dish. Still, for the more classic IPA, the best pairings are Mexican foods like burritos and fajitas. Double IPAs go great with smoked brisket or fried chicken.
Porters and Stouts: Porters originated in London. They are dark and malty beers with a thick and toasty flavor. They go great with foods that have similarly rich flavors. Think barbecue, sausages, and roasted meat in general. Stouts are similarly dark and malty, but with a smoother finish. The chocolate and coffee notes present make it a great pairing for desserts, Mexican mole, and barbecue.
Wheat Beers: Wheat beers have a smooth texture and a little less carbonation than other light lagers or IPAs. Breweries often add fruity notes to wheat beers since the wheat doesn't add much flavor. Wheat beers pair well with a variety of foods, including spicy dishes, salads, and even pastries.

There is a beer out there for any dish, and the best beer really depends on your own preference. No matter what food and beer combination you're looking for, you can find it at Two Frays Brewery. There are plenty of restaurants nearby and you are more than welcome to bring your food over to our outside seating area. For more information on the best beer in Pittsburgh, call us today!

Why Light Beer Reigns Supreme For Many

Tue, 17 May 2022 12:16:12 GMT

We've all heard dismissive comments about light beer. A lot of this has to do with the fact that people care about their beer, and they want it to be as high quality as possible. Therefore, people who have strong preferences regarding their beer don't want to see it changed in any way. But the fact is that though beer is an old beverage, changes can be made. We can keep a hold on our classic beers while at the same time introducing new and exciting twists on beer. Your local brewery may just as easily offer different takes on beer as they would the classics, and this will hopefully bring in new beer appreciators.

With that being said, light beer may actually be more popular than its detractors would have you think. According to Statista, 2019 saw that 41.5% of all American beer consumption was attributed to light beer. Clearly, there is a demand for light beer. But why? What makes light beer superior for so many beer drinkers, casual and otherwise?

1. It's Low-Calorie

One of the most obvious reasons why people love light beer (and why you may see it at your local brewery more often than not) is that it's low-calorie. Many Americans are more conscious of their weight than they used to be, and they're making efforts to ensure that they're consuming fewer calories. With light beer, you get what you want out of a beer, while at the same time not drinking as many calories.

2. It's A Good Intro

Many people are hesitant to get behind drinking beer, simply because they have misconceptions about the flavor profiles offered. Light beer is a great way to start drinking beer; and in fact, it's a great way to start drinking alcohol, if you haven't tried alcoholic beverages before. Light beer is mild and easy to get behind.

3. It's Light On Alcohol Too

Generally speaking, light beer often isn't quite as heavy on the alcohol. With a lower alcohol content, you can drink it more easily without getting overly inebriated. Therefore, light beer is a great compromise that allows people to drink for enjoyment.

Check out a light beer at your local brewery . Give it a chance -- you may love what you find!

Beer: The New Favorite Drink for Health Nuts

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 15:55:26 GMT

According to Time magazine, 60% of adults in the United States drink alcohol. Out of those individuals, 41% say that beer is their favorite. There are a lot of reasons why beer is such a popular drink, but it's generally not because it's viewed as a healthy beverage. However, there are multiple health benefits associated with the moderate consumption of beer that can improve your overall health. And what is "moderate" consumption? The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for America states that "moderate" drinking is one serving of beer for women, and up to two servings for men. Drinking responsibly can help you in more ways than one.

Delicious and Nutritious

Compared to other alcoholic beverages, beer packs a punch with plenty of nutrients. It has just as many antioxidants as wine and has many more nutrients including vitamin B, iron, calcium, and phosphates. Beer also offers plenty of protein and fiber. Of course, it's also known as "liquid bread". It has a good amount of calories, so you do have to monitor your intake the next time you go to your local brewery, especially if you're trying to cut down on weight.

Beer Speaks to the Heart

Drinking beer in moderate quantities has shown to be beneficial to a healthy heart because it can prevent high bad cholesterol and heart disease. The American Heart Association conducted a study over six years and found that moderate drinkers had higher levels of high-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol, than those who didn't. What's more, it may help those who have had heart attacks. According to a study published in the European Heart Journal, among men who had heart attacks, those who drank beer moderately were 42% less likely to die from heart failure.

Beer Makes You Smarter

A study conducted at the School of Nutrition and Health Promotion at ASU has shown that moderate beer consumption helps fight off cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's and dementia. Part of this is tied in with the heart benefits, as beer raises your good cholesterol which improves brain function. A study published in Consciousness and Cognition showed that being slightly buzzed helped individuals solve puzzles faster than their sober counterparts. Of course, these benefits are entirely negated if you drink in excess. So make sure to drink responsibly.

Beer Makes You Smile

According to the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, beer also protects your teeth by preventing bacteria known as biofilm from growing on them. This biofilm is associated with tooth decay and gum disorders. It also blocked existing bacteria from communicating, which slowed their growth. Make sure to tell your dentist. He may just give you a beer if you're good during your next teeth cleaning.

Kidney Stone Prevention

Drinking beer moderately is also associated with a lower risk of kidney stones, unlike sugary drinks. You knew all along there was a reason you avoided fruity cocktails. Beers heavy in hops are the best beer in this regard, according to the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. So think about picking a craft beer next time you're at the bar.

Beer Can Put Out Fire

Hops, one of the most essential ingredients in beer, is shown to offer anti-inflammatory benefits. A study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research finds that hops in beer prevented inflammation, meaning the best beer for fighting inflamed joints is a hoppy one. If you have a sore back, consider cracking open a cold one before putting your feet up.

The Obvious

Outside of these studies and health benefits, beer offers you a chance to unwind and socialize with friends and family. Next time you're enjoying a drink, take a moment to acknowledge how much better it tastes because of the people you're with.

All of this is stated with the strong caveat that this isn't a license to pig out on beer. Heavy consumption of beer is associated with negative health risks. However, moderately enjoying a beer or two a few nights a week may just make you a healthier person. So, if you're a health-conscious individual, check out the best beer in Pittsburgh, PA at Two Fray's Brewery. They have outdoor seating, a huge selection of beers, and good times waiting.

Football and Beer: A Match Made in Heaven

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 14:38:50 GMT

According to Time Magazine, three-quarters of Americans see football and beer as a matching set. It doesn't seem to matter if it's college or professional, there is nothing quite like enjoying a cold one while watching your favorite team play.

If you're getting ready to stock up for the next game, we can help. Here are a few types of go-to snack and beer pairings we reach for on game day. Maybe you will find something new to try!

Nachos and Pale Lagers

Do you know what really brings out the jalapenos kick? A pale lager. This might be one of the more popular football beer types. The reason is, due to the light taste, it does not sit heavy in your stomach. This beer won't be competing with the heat from the chips. Common brewery options are Miller Lite, Budweiser, and Corona.

Wings and Hoppy IPAs

Whether they come as strips or on the bone, wings are both the messiest and most popular protein to chow down on during the football season. To swallow it down, get a malty beverage to counteract the possible spicy of wings. The citrus mixes with a bitter finish to give it a great flavor going down. A few interesting picks are Brooklyn Brewery Sorachi Ace, Anchor Steam Brekle's Brown, and Zombie Dust.

Pizza and Maibock

No matter what comes on top of that cheesy circle of goodness, it is going to be good. It would be an easy argument that different toppings could lead you to pick different beers, but there is one selection that goes well with everything and that's the German favorite, Maibock. That's because it is more a play on cheese than anything else due to a subdued hops count. This flavor allows all the toppings to shine. Our favorites are Hofbrau Munchen Maibock, Helles Bock, and Dunkel.

There are honestly so many options, it would be hard to cover in one article. However, we hope this has given you some inspiration for the upcoming game day. The optimal feeling is to have a great time with a winning team and not feel like you can't walk when it's over. The best way to discover your favorite brewery pairing is to get in there and make some unique choices of your own.

Why Beer is Everyone's Favorite Alcoholic Beverage

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:03:11 GMT

Alcoholic beverages are one of the most popular drinks on the market. However, not all alcoholic beverages are made the same. According to Statista, about 41% of people who drink alcohol have claimed beer as their favorite beverage even when faced with a wide selection of wines, spirits, and liquor. So, what makes beer such a national favorite? Let's break it down…

Great Taste and Flavors

Beers are mainly classified as either lagers or ales, but even if there are only two major beer styles, you'll be surprised at the variety of options and the complex range of flavors available. If you're a beer lover, you'll appreciate the diversity because there's more to enjoy.

After all, variety is the spice of life, and you can savor the great taste and flavors based on whether the beer has a dense body, an intense hop flavor, balanced malt, the hint of some other sweet, fruity, or chocolate flavor, or any bouquet or flavor palette of your choice.

Even people who hate the taste of beer are bound to find a brand of beer they can fall in love with.

Pairs Well With Most Food

Because beer has so many types and styles, it's easy to pair with most meals. The trick to pairing beer with food lies in understanding how hops, bitterness, and malt can influence the flavor of the beer. It's also important to understand the difference between dark and light beer.

Generally, you can pair beer with food based on whether you want the flavors to contrast and complement each other. Some people also use beer as a palate cleanser, especially when eating something with a strong or overpowering flavor.

Generates a Wonderful Buzz

A cold and perspiring beer on a hot day is one of the most refreshing things you can ever have if you love beer. But that's just a secondary perk. The real appeal of beer comes from its ability to generate the perfect buzz. There's a solid and scientific explanation behind why beer buzz is one of the best feelings anyone could ever have.

In a nutshell, beer helps to boost the production of endorphins, otherwise known as the feel-good hormones. These endorphins are responsible for that enhanced feeling of pleasure and can help you relax after a long and stressful day.

Beer buzz is a result of the alcohol in the beer but it should not be confused with being drunk or some other colorful terms, such as flushed, plastered, and hammered. Being buzzed is that sweet point where you're feeling good and some of your inhibitions fall away, allowing you to participate more confidently in social interactions. That's why beer is always a great addition to any social setting in a safe environment.

Craft Beer Increases Enjoyment

One of the reasons why beer is so popular is that it brings out your adventurous side. The craft beer industry has been booming as more and more people turn to craft beer. If you're one of those people who drink beer for the buzz, you'll enjoy the fact that craft beer tends to contain more alcohol. If you like beer because of its taste, craft beer is even better because it's made from high-quality ingredients.

Most importantly, there are many innovative brands of craft beer on the market and there are always unique and interesting beer options you can explore. More and more breweries are putting effort into making the most creative and unique beverages to stay ahead of the competition. Craft beer has continuously encouraged brewers and beer drinkers to experiment with new and diverse flavors of beer.

Might Have Health Benefits

Keep in mind that while excessive consumption of beer is harmful to health, moderate consumption can provide some health benefits. To begin with, beer contains a rich nutrient profile that includes proteins, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.

Several studies have shown that beer could be good for heart health, bone strength, brainpower, and inflammation. However, you'll need to do your own research or speak to a qualified medical professional to verify these claims.

If you have ever wondered why people love beer so much, the reasons above capture the gist of it. Did you know that one of the reasons why beer might be your favorite alcoholic beverage is because the preference is hardwired in your genes?

That certainly makes things more interesting. Whatever the reasons behind your love of beer, we are happy to keep your favorite beer coming your way, so get in touch.

What Makes One Beer Different From Another?

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 14:18:21 GMT

Need a beer to go? Well, you're not alone. According to USA Today, over 40% of alcohol lovers claim that beer is their favorite beverage. But not all beers are made equal. In fact, that's the beauty of beer! You will have so many options to choose from when you need a beer to go.

The complex taste of beer is also very enjoyable, which brings us to the question of why beers can look and taste different. Well, it all comes down to the beer style, the ingredients, and the fermenting process.

Everything You Need to Know About Beer Styles

As mentioned, beer hits your tastebuds differently, and those differences can be categorized by assigning "styles" to beers. To begin with, all beers are categorized as either lagers or ales. Within these categories, you'll find beer styles are further classified using ranges of alcohol by volume (ABV), color, and additional ingredients.

When brewing an ale, the top fermentation process is used. It involves fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures and the yeast will be visible at the top. On the other hand, when brewing a lager, the yeast is bottom-settling, cooler temperatures are used, and the fermentation process takes longer.

The type of yeast used for ales and lagers is also different. With ales, you need yeast that has a high tolerance for alcohol. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to beer styles. Brewing beer can be a highly scientific process, but many brewers also add a creative touch to make their beers unique.

Others love to stick to traditional brewing methods, while others are on a mission to discover new and modern beer styles that add more interest.

A Look At Beer Recipes

Besides the fermentation process, an IPA tastes different from a stout or a porter because of the beer recipe used. The main ingredients for beer are water, grain, yeast, and hops. But, you'll be surprised at how they can be used to create many kinds of unique beer. For starters, there's a variety of grains, hops, and yeast to choose from.

You can also use water with different chemistry profiles to alter the flavor and color of the beer. Secondly, you can also add other ingredients to give the beer a special taste, for instance, spices, fruit, and coffee. So, you'll find that you can have two beers that are both ales or lagers, but they are still different. In other words, they will have the same style, but their ingredient profile makes them unique. Every brewer out there can put their own spin on a beer through the combination of different ingredients.

Breaking Down Lagers And Ales

Every beer on the market is either an ale or a lager. Lagers are made with yeast strains that prefer bottom and colder fermentation and which have a lower tolerance for alcohol. New beer drinkers often start by experimenting with lagers because of their light taste. Lagers can also taste malty and popular examples include Coors and Budweiser.

These options don't have many complex flavors, so they're a suitable entry point as you explore and navigate the world of beer styles. While discovering new beer styles, you may come across several misconceptions about ales and lagers. One common misconception is that ales are stronger and darker than lagers. But, this is not true because dark ales and lagers exist across high and low ABV ranges.

Next, we just want to take a look at the different types of beers so you have a better understanding of the available options whenever you need a beer to go . We have already defined lagers as having a clean, consistent, and light, malty flavor.

Indian Pales Ales (IPA) typically have high alcohol levels and can be strong and bitter or have a citrus or fruity flavor, depending on the type of hops used. In contrast, pale ales have lower alcohol levels, a malty flavor, and a medium body. Then you have stout beers, which are darker but generally sweet, and pilsners that have a light, gold color, and a crisp taste. There are also many other beer varieties to explore.

The bottom line is that beers taste different because they are created using different fermenting processes, and the original ingredients can be different. The importance of knowing all the different beer styles is so you can easily pick and choose your potential favorites.

Ready for a beer to go? Get in touch with us because we are ready to assist!

Beer to Go Lets You Take Home the Superb Taste of Your Local Brewery

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 17:44:42 GMT

Nearly 80% of people in America live close to their local brewery, within 10 miles to be exact. Beer lovers know that there is nothing better than selecting your favorite beer flavors from a local brewery. Their flavors cannot be matched by big manufacturers that don't understand your community. When you shop locally, you are supporting the community and giving everyone a place to gather and celebrate.

You can taste the heart and soul poured into every craft. Maybe you have already taken a brewery tour and seen firsthand how their crafts are brewed. If you haven’t already you should. Being able to watch a local business create the craft beer they love and give back to the neighborhood is simply inspiring. Enough so that stopping by on your way home from work for beer to go could become a happy habit.

Pick Up Craft Beer to Go

The best beer comes from local breweries that have found creative ways for you to take their beer home. Beer to go is a great pickup or carryout option. While you are visiting the brewery for a refreshing drink, take a four-pack home with you. The brew you love is already sealed to ensure there is no loss of flavor or quality taking your favorite craft beer from your local brewery to your home.

Great Reasons to Get Beer to Go from Your Neighborhood Brewery

When you buy local, you are fully supporting the local economy. Your money stays within the community and goes toward buying fresh ingredients and paying employees. Neighborhood businesses also support one another. While brews and snacks are tasty, visiting a local restaurant to eat or bringing your favorite foods to dine alfresco at the brewery is also a great option.

Make Drinking Craft Beer a Personal Experience

Getting to know the owners of your local brewery will show you just how passionate they are about creating the perfect beer to go. Learn how every beer they brew has their love and devotion added as the special ingredients. Meeting the makers of craft beer offers you the opportunity to start interesting conversations and put a face to the innovators of the masterpiece you love.

That Rich Aroma Comes from High-Quality Ingredients

That rich aroma you love comes from using high-quality ingredients. Your neighborhood brewery is 100% transparent about the ingredients they use in their beers. Can you say that about large manufacturers? Can you attest to the fact that beer conglomerates only use fresh ingredients? You certainly can at your local brewery. They care so much about the quality of their crafts only the best of the best is included in their list of ingredients, starting with the water.

You’re Not Just Getting Beer to Go

When you purchase beer from a brewery near your home, you are getting more than just beer. You’re getting a friendly experience, a carefully crafted brew that does not sacrifice the taste, and you are supporting a family-owned business that offers you a beer experience second to none. Stop by, grab a few 4-packs of your favorite crafts, and head to the comfort of your home knowing that brew is going to tantalize your tastebuds in the most satisfying ways.

What Is Craft Beer?

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 14:54:53 GMT

Interest in craft beer is on the rise, and people are learning more about this beer and discovering their favorites. However, not many people understand what craft beer is and how it differs from normal beer.

What Makes a Beer a Craft Beer?

Craft breweries use timeless methods when brewing craft beers. Unlike macro-breweries, they make use of quality, local ingredients in their recipes. For a beer to be labeled as a craft beer, it should be made using real malts. Because of this, craft beers are more flavorful and have better texture and dimension.

Another major difference between craft beers and normal beer is that craft beer is often left unfiltered and unpasteurized. The brewers will also not add any preservatives or chemicals to the beer. This makes the beer way more flavorful and arguably a lot more interesting.

Today's craft brewers make use of the best of old-fashioned brewing methods while at the same time throwing in some new ingredients and interesting new techniques. Their goal is to push the boundaries of style and flavor as much as possible. This is what makes craft beer a lot more unique and memorable than regular beer.

Raw Materials

Craft beer is manufactured with care. All the raw materials used must pass through a strict selection process before they are used to make the brew. These are the typical components of craft beer:

Malt: The main ingredient in craft beer is malted barley. To make this malt, barley is soaked in water and allowed to sprout. Heat is then applied to the sprouts to pause the germination process. The malt can then be roasted to come up with the resulting flavor of the beer.
Hops: Another well-known craft beer ingredient is hops. Hops are responsible for giving craft beer a hint of bitter flavors. Hops varieties do not only give craft beers some bitter note but they are also used to bring out notes of tropical fruits or even fresh grasses.
Yeast: It is not possible to brew craft beer without yeast. Yeast is needed to ferment the beer. The type of yeast used is so significant that most brewers keep its identity a secret.
Water: Craft beer is made using high-quality water. The characteristics of the water used in brewing can affect the outcome. Most brewer will take the time to ensure that the water has been filtered and purified.

Even though craft beer is made using these four primary ingredients, it is nowhere near simple. There are other specific ingredients used by experienced brewers to enhance the flavor of the beer and make it unique. These include peaches and cloves, among others.

Place of Production

Unlike normal beer, which is made in large factories using fully automated processes, crafted beers are made in "microbreweries." These small breweries are characterized by fair machinery. What makes craft beer unique, apart from the ingredients, is that the human factor is critical for the execution and regulation of its brewing.

Fermentation

This is one of the most important stages in the brewing of craft beer. While there is the first fermentation with all types of beer, there is a second fermentation with craft beer. This process produces natural gas, which is made by yeast. This gas is assimilated by the body more efficiently than CO2, which is usually artificially injected into regular beer.

Flavor and Aroma

Even a beer amateur will be able to tell that craft beer is different from industrial beer. It has more peculiar colors and more body. Craft beer also has an intense aroma and its flavor is well defined. For that reason, more consumers value craft beer tastes and product quality. Research also shows that craft beer has more nutrients than industrial beer.

Types of Craft Beer

There are more types of craft beer than you can keep up with. On the basic level, these beers are categorized by three kinds of yeast. These include ale yeast, lager yeast, and spontaneous yeast.

The choice of yeast used affects the general flavor of the beer. Lagers are quite easy to drink and they have light and crisp flavors. Ales, on the other hand, are known to have raised alcohol levels and are therefore denser.

Today there are hundreds of craft beers available and they all have their own unique features. It is important to note that they are all made revolving around the same principles of quality and attention to detail. Come visit Two Frays Brewery today to try some of our craft beers, made right here in our brewery!

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT YOUR LOCAL CRAFT BREWERIES

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 17:14:24 GMT

In the modern era, the term "buy local" has taken on quasi-dimensional meaning. It does indeed mean purchasing local products, but integrated into it is an implicit understanding that you are helping out your local brewery, meeting new friends, and sharing a public space with like-minded individuals. It should also be noted that a local business is literally the smallest "unit" of business, adaptable to customizing your order or trying to please you in a multitude of ways, unlike a large corporation.

This blog will focus on some of the positives of local craft breweries, whether you're seeking out the best beer or simply looking for a refreshment from the heat that can't be beaten. With polls showing that out of those who drink alcohol, 41% claim that beer is their favorite, local breweries tend to be incredibly popular!

Get Flavors You Can't Get Anywhere Else

Your local brewery will only produce so many beers and many of these will be seasonal or special. Unlike mass-produced products that must be standardized and homogenized, your local brewery can truly produce some small-batch beers that you may never see again. Whether they have exotic ingredients such as jalapeno peppers or are served with cotton candy, you won't want to miss out!

Interact With a Brewer

Trying to craft your own brews at home, but just can't get the hang of it? The local brew master is usually hanging around at the brewery, and may even consider answering a question or two if they have the time! We don't often get to meet (or even see) who produces our products, so going to a local brewery for this experience is a rare opportunity. Perhaps they will even share a beer or two with you on their break!

Support Local Businesses

When you go to a local brewery, you truly are supporting a local business. That establishment is usually owned by one person, a couple, or a small group of investors that all want to please you and produce amazing beer. Instead of worrying about supporting another large conglomerate that may not align with your personal values, you can drink great beer while knowing who produced it.

Are you ready to support a local brewery right here in Pittsburgh? Come to Two Frays Brewery! We have unique craft beers, our outdoor seating is dog-friendly, and we even offer tours of our brewery. Get to know our local business today.

BEER 101: THE INS AND OUTS of HOPS

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 19:24:27 GMT

When you take a trip down to your local brewery, there are a few components that go into creating the perfect pint of beer. In fact, most beers are only made with a few simple ingredients: water, malt, yeast, and, of course, hops. Though these are the foundation of every good glass of beer, it's thanks to the quality of these products and the brewing methods that a beer becomes something truly unique.

But what are hops? Unless you're a tried and true beer fanatic, you might not know the role that this helpful plant plays in creating your favorite craft beer. This cute bud of the Cannabinaceae family is responsible for a variety of characteristics in beer, many of which you might not have realized.

T hat being said, let's take a shallow dive into the ins and outs of hops.

What are hops?

As stated earlier, hops are a member of the Cannabinaceae family, which means that it's a cousin to hemp. This artichoke-shaped bulb is small and contains a range of components that go into making a beer. They're popularly grown in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States but hops are actually found all over the globe.

Hops come in many shapes and forms but they're all a necessary component in the brewing process. Many local craft breweries will experiment with different types of hops to play around with flavor profiles.

What do hops do?

Hops are responsible for many flavors and aromas in beer thanks to the oils that are locked in the lupulin glands of the hop cones. When these oils are released, they can serve three purposes: to make the drink more bitter (thanks to the acidic nature of the oil), to make it more aromatic, or to do both. IPAs, for example, have taken hops to a whole new level when it comes to experimenting with different aromas. Different ratios of hops per batch can unleash a range of different flavor profiles and acidity levels.

Hops can also change a beer's flavor and acidity depending on when your local brewery adds them in the brewing process. If more hops are added at the end of the brewing process, for example, you'll get a "hoppier" flavor. If they're added closer to the start of the process, these oils will boil away and create a more subdued finish. When beer is fermented with hops in the batch, it's known as dry hopping.

Fun fact: hops are also essential because they serve as a preservative in beer!

How are hops used in your favorite beers?

As mentioned above, hops are a quintessential component in IPAs. In fact, this type of ale contains the most hops of any other beer or ale with over three pounds of hops present in a single keg. A pale ale, on the other hand, will only have about half a pound of hops. Your average stout will only have .3 lbs of hops per keg.

Once hops are present in a beer, they're then measured in International Bitterness Units (IBUs). This measurement indicates the level of acidity from the hops found in the beer. If you're not a fan of a bitter beer, you're better off looking for beers with lower levels of hops.

But hops do more than just make your beer bitter. They also add a number of different flavors depending, again, on the brewing process and the strain of hops used. Hops are often responsible for fruity flavors, earthy notes, and hints of pine in your favorite glass.

At the end of the day, it's all about balance. If you have questions about how hops are used in your favorite glass, don't hesitate to talk to your local brewery for more information.

Contact Two Frays Brewery

Did you know that almost half of Americans claim that beer is their favorite alcoholic beverage? Two Frays Brewery is proud to serve some of the best beer Pittsburgh has to offer. When you're looking for a new local brewery , visit us today. We'll be happy to take you on a brewery tour and explain how hops are used in our brewing process.