Posts Tagged ‘Brewpub’

Alvarado Street Raspberry Wheat Release

Thursday, May 16th, 2013

Imagine if Michelangelo got to take another crack at the Sistine Chapel or Leonardo Da Vinci repainted the Mona Lisa? It’s not often that an artist gets to recreate a masterpiece, but that is exactly what Peter B’s Brewpub Brewmaster, Kevin Clark has done with his re-release of his award winning Alvarado Street Raspberry Wheat craft beer. After winning silver medal at the BTI World Beer Championship in 2012, Clark figured he could improve on his work and what better week than to re-introduce the beer world to his genius than American Craft Beer Week, 2013.

Clark refined the process and tinkering here and there with the recipe and the outcome is one of the most highly anticipated releases in the area. Clark has become one of the hottest Brewmasters around garnering nine total medals from the World Beer Championships in two years including three bronze, four silver and two gold.

Rooted in sustainability, Clark’s process includes locally harvested hops from the Salinas Valley, re-use of salvaged grains for cattle feed and a system that a mad scientist would love that saves 40,000 gallons of water per year by reusing boiled water. With this hometown presence, it is no wonder that the name of his beer is derived from the historic Alvarado Street that ends just outside the Portola Hotel & Spa where Peter B’s is located.

So stop by Peter B’s Brewpub and rediscover the wonderful taste of Kevin Clark’s Alvarado Street Raspberry Wheat and be introduced to a true artist!

Tags: Alvarado Street Raspberry Wheat, Brewing, Brewpub, Craft Beer, Events, Monterey, Peter B's Brewpub, Portola Hotel
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American Craft Beer Week 2013

Thursday, May 2nd, 2013

In the United States, beer has long been synonymous with sports. Whether it is enjoying a couple of cold ones at the ballpark, tailgating with friends and thousands of others at a college or NFL football game or simply kicking back at home, sports equal beer. While dominated by the mass produced mega-brewers for years, Craft Brews and Breweries are quickly becoming a favorite for the sports-crazed American populace. Good times at the game do not have to mean a bad tasting beer.

If a professional football junkie’s nirvana is Superbowl week, then American Craft Beer Week is the equal for the casual and hardcore fans of the Craft Beer movement. May 13-19, 2013, America embraces Craft Beer in all its glory and locally, Peter B’s Brewpub, recently voted as Monterey County’s Best Brewpub and Best Beer is offering a full lineup of awesome events.

Brewmaster Kevin Clark is leading the festivities and the week kicks off in style on Monday the 13^th with the release of the highly anticipated Alvarado Street Raspberry Wheat. Tuesday features a Mug Club Mixer from 4-6:30pm and complimentary Raspberry Wheat tasters for all Mug Club members. Pubtalk with the Beer Geek holds down its usual Wednesday place at the pub, but this week is extra special as Host Chris Nelson will feature a special American Craft Beer Week show and giving away two sets of Monterey Beer Garden Tickets (must be present to win). Want more? Peter B’s will also be offering Growler specials and its always popular Firkin Wednesday small batch tastings.

The week continues on Thursday the 16^th with a 6pm Brewers Dinner featuring guest brewery Bison Brewing and special guest, The Beer Wench! (Reservations are highly recommended – (831) 647-4805) And if that was not enough, Peter B’s celebrates American Craft Beer Week at the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Cooking for Solutions Event on Friday the 17^th from 7:15-10:30pm.

Each day, Peter B’s Brewpub will also offer Brewery tours from 4-5:30pm and daily Special Guest Brews featuring $3 pints. With so many great events, it might be hard to choose just one, so why don’t you choose them all. If you love beer, this is the week for you. Cheers!

Tags: American Craft Beer Week, Aquarium, Brewing, Brewpub, Craft Beer, Events, Firkin, Growler, Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Beer Garden, Peter B's Brewpub, Portola Hotel
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Pub Talk with the Beer Geek & Friends at Peter B’s Brewpub

Friday, April 12th, 2013

One of the great American pastimes is to pop open a cold brew and have a good talk. Whether the talk is serious or lighthearted, about sports or life, people really like to unwind with a good beer. So what’s better that talking over a beer? How about talking about beer and doing it live from Peter B’s Brewpub located behind the Portola Hotel & Spa?

Chris Nelson, better known as The Beer Geek, talks about beer, life and his lifelong love of beer every Wednesday at 5pm on KRML Radio’s Pub Talk. Chris Nelson and his wife, Merideth started The Beer Geek website(www.thebeergeek.com) in 2005 to help document their extensive travels as they tasted their way around the world, sampling locally brewed beers at their source. As their knowledge and experience grew, so did their following and a book, Teachings from the Tap, and a series of video blog episodes, One Pint At A Time later, they have firmly established themselves as a go to source for information and insight into the rapidly expanding craft brew industry.

Peter B’s Brewpub, recently voted by Monterey County Weekly readers as Monterey’s Best Local Beer & Brewery, hosts Chris and his guests as each week, they explore the world of beer and other topics of interest from around the Monterey Peninsula and the greater Central Coast area. While topics can be far ranging, the sudsy libation is never far from the conversation and with Peter B’s house brewed craft offerings and featured small batch specials, guests are invited to come down to the live broadcast and enjoy the interactive show. So if you are a diehard fan of craft brews or just enjoy a cold one with friends, join Chris Nelson and friends at Peter B’s Brewpub each Wednesday at 5pm on KRML 102.1 FM and 1410 AM for Pub Talk. It’s an experience worth tasting!

Tags: Brewing, Brewpub, KRML, Monterey, Peter B's Brewpub, Portola Hotel, Pub Talk
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Meet Our Brewer Kevin Clark

Monday, January 28th, 2013

A Northern California native and a resident of Monterey County since 1998, Kevin Clark, a beer enthusiast and aficionado, is the Brewmaster of Peter B’s Brewpub at the Portola Hotel & Spa in Monterey, California.

After graduating from California State University, Monterey Bay, Kevin traveled the world. He immersed himself in the cultures of the countries he visited, paying particular attention to their food and beverage. His destinations were wide-ranging including the continents of Africa, Asia and Europe and the island countries of Samoa, Tonga and Fiji. This cultural and culinary diversity gave Kevin a unique perspective on flavor which led him to begin his career in the industry at Passionfish in Pacific Grove, CA. There, he studied wine and food pairings, but his heart always belonged to his first love; beer. He began to experiment with the pairing of beer and food, but found his choices in hops based beverages limited in comparison with wine and its many varietals.

Soon, Kevin found himself beginning to homebrew his own beer in an effort to not only discover new tastes, but save money in the process. The plan backfired however, as Kevin began to sample and taste as many commercial and homebrewed offerings as possible, falling in love all over again with the complexities and varieties of beer. Kevin started at Peter B’s as the Assistant Brewer and was promoted to Head Brewmaster in early 2011.

For Kevin Clark, the act of combining the beautiful aromas and flavors of malt and hops with other additions is a gift and one of life’s true pleasures. The history and traditions of the beverage are wonderful, but for Kevin, the creation of a beverage that is alive and brings people together is his gift to the world.

Tags: Brewing, Brewpub, Craft Beer, Kevin Clark, Monterey, Peter B's Brewpub, Travel
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Brewer’s Dinners in Peter B’s Brewpub

Friday, January 11th, 2013

For a number of years, winemakers have been taking advantage of the well-known pairings of food and their varietals. While winemaker’s dinners have been all the rage, recently, the talented brewers of wine’s bubbly cousin, beer, have been getting in on the action. It wasn’t too long ago that beer was regulated to cookouts and college parties, but in recent years, brewmasters have elevated their craft to incredible heights. With new tastes and trends emerging all the time, the art of craft beer has taken its rightful place alongside wine as a true art-form. With that recognition, has come the opportunity to experience these creative flavors paired with chef inspired eats.

Nowhere is this being done better than at the Portola Hotel & Spa. Brewer Kevin Clark of Peter B’s Brewpub and Executive Chef Jason Giles of Jacks Restaurant & Lounge and Peter B’s; have teamed up to create a series of Brewer’s Dinners that take the best of the worlds of food and craft beer and combine them into delicious, gatherings where seasonal and special varieties of come together in a wonderful celebration of taste.

Usually featuring three to four courses of locally sourced and sustainable food prepared by Chef Giles and accompanied by beers either brewed or chosen by Clark. These Brewer’s Dinners have become one of the most popular events at Peter B’s. Seating is limited and usually sell-out so early reservations are highly recommended. If you want to experience a new dimension in flavor, “like” the Peter B’s Facebook Page and you’ll know as soon as the next of the series is announced! There are events not to be missed.

Tags: Brewing, Brewpub, Chef Jason Giles, Craft Beer, Monterey, Peter B's Brewpub
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The “Best Weekend in Monterey”

Monday, December 24th, 2012

With the holiday season and winter finally here the special events and happenings in Monterey are as plentiful as relatives and leftovers. Choosing what to do and where to go can be overwhelming, so your friends here at Central Coast Living have put together, in our humble opinion, an itinerary for what we would like to think of as the “Best Weekend in Monterey” during the holidays.

The weekend starts off on Friday afternoon with a relaxing walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary as you walk or bike along the coast. From Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, it’s just over two miles of paved and rolled trail with views of Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hopkins Marine Station and the stately Victorian-era homes lining the way Lovers Point Park of Pacific Grove.

After working up an appetite, return to Fisherman’s Wharf and explore the shops and restaurants while sampling some of California’s freshest seafood. Evening activities can include theatric or musical entertainment at one of Monterey’s many venues or depending on the weekend of your visit, holiday-themed activities including various tree lightings, historic tours of seasonally decorated buildings and special cultural and wine events.

Saturday brings a day full of activities and none greater than the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Whether a couple or a family, you are sure to be amazed by the variety of exhibits and hands-on educational opportunities. There are so many interesting areas that you might want to take two days to fully explore the Aquarium, but if one day is all you have time for, be sure to check out their newest exhibit, The Jellies Experience. You’ll learn what makes the jellyfish one of the most intriguing animals on land or sea. With the Aquarium behind you, stroll along historic Cannery Row and immerse yourself in the world of John Steinbeck while shopping and taking in the sites.

There is no better way to enjoy a trip to Monterey during the holidays than with a visit to Ice Skating on the Bay. Located directly behind the Portola Hotel & Spa on the Custom House Plaza, the seasonal ice skating rink is open from 11am – 10pm Monday through Saturday and from 12pm to 8pm on Sunday’s. After reliving childhood memories or creating new ones with your kids, head over to the Portola Hotel & Spa for your choice of dinner options. Jacks Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience featuring locally sourced, sustainable ingredients throughout the menu and an impressive wine list, all created under the expert culinary eye of Executive Chef Jason Giles. If you are in the mood for something more laid back, then relax in Peter B’s Brewpub. As Monterey’s only craft brewery features a delicious pub fare with a wide variety of beer brewed directly on site. Brewmaster Kevin Clark’s award winning seasonal brews pair perfectly with the menu and with 15 HDTV’s you are sure to find the game of your choice.

While Sunday may be the day of your departure you can still experience much more in Monterey. Walk historic Alvarado Street just steps from the Portola and treat yourself to pastries and coffee at one of the many café’s and then immerse yourself in the history of Old Monterey along the self-guided Path of History. You’ll encounter a variety of historic buildings and landmarks detailing Monterey as the first capitol city of California. With so much more to offer, the Monterey Peninsula must be experienced in more than just a weekend. Check back with us throughout the year as we give you tips and ideas on how to experience the seasons and the scenery of Monterey and beyond!

Tags: Aquarium, Brewpub, Cannery Row, Family, Fisherman’s Wharf, Jacks Restaurant, kids, Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Peter B's Brewpub, sustainable ingredients
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2nd Annual Monterey Beer Garden

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

There is just something inherently right about enjoying a beer outdoors. Whether it’s on a hot summer day, tailgating at a football game on a crisp autumn afternoon or simply relaxing with friends in the backyard, fresh air and a freshly poured beer go hand in hand. That’s why the return of the Monterey Beer Garden is being met with such anticipation.

The second annual event held on September 22^nd from 12pm-4pm at Monterey’s historic Memory Garden at Custom House Plaza is shaping up to be a Who’s Who of the Central Coast Craft Beer scene. With local heavy hitters Peter B’s Brewpub and English Ales leading the way and Seabright Brewing, Rock Bottom Brewing and Hollister Hills Brewery among the 11 participants, attendees are sure to get a sense of the skill and imagination of our local brewers.

Sponsored by the Portola Hotel & Spa, The Offset Project, The Monterey County Weekly and Peter B’s Brewpub, the event features unlimited beer tasting, BBQ and live music from local favorite Cheeky Spanks with proceeds of the event benefiting local environmental non-profit, Save Our Shores. And if that was not enough, Save Our Shores will also be raffling off a number of great prizes.

Tickets for the event are still available and can be purchased online at www.montereybeergarden.com . Raffle tickets are sold separately at the door.

Good Friends, Good Cheer, Good Time, Great Beer!

Tags: Brewing, Brewpub, Craft Beer, Events, Monterey, Monterey Beer Garden, Monterey County, Peter B's Brewpub, Save Our Shores, The Offset Project
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Growlers & Growlettes

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012

Whether you are a diehard aficionado or someone who likes the occasional cold one, beer is synonymous with many different things. Most of us can agree, however, that beer is best enjoyed in its tapped form; fresh and foamy, served in a chilled pint glass or mug. You’d be hard-pressed though, to get that “straight from the tap taste” at home. Sure, some companies have tried to market the “take home keg” but most have sorely missed the mark. What’s a beer lover to do?

Thank goodness we have Kevin Clark in our midst. The visionary Brewer from Peter B’s Brewpub located behind the Portola Hotel & Spa has graced our taste buds with his wonderful creations for a couple years and now he is offering the perfect way to enjoy them at home. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I introduce you to the Growler & Growlette!

The six pint Growler ($25 or $10 for refills) or two pint Growlette ($10 or $5 for refills) allow fans of Clark’s wizardry to choose their favorite flavor and enjoy the taste at home. The brown glass bottles keep the beer fresh and can be returned for refills as needed, but must be consumed off property. Clark is constantly debuting small batch craft brews to go along with his regular offerings so contact the folks at Peter B’s Brewpub to see what’s on tap!

Tags: Brewpub, Growler, on tap, Peter B's Brewpub
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Father’s Day Contest!

Tuesday, June 12th, 2012

One of the great traditions we celebrate is Father’s Day. Almost everyone has a favorite story about their dad, but the fanfare was always reserved for Mother’s Day. Mom gets to indulge. Dad gets to rest. While good in theory, why can’t Dad enjoy some of the finer things? A trip to the spa might be out of the question, but how about something a little more…“Dad-like”. The Portola Hotel & Spa is looking to change that with their Father’s Day Giveaway Contest.

Now through June 17^th, you have the chance to give Dad a little love. Simply come down to Peter B’s Brewpub located behind the Portola and sign-up for your chance to win Dad a night at the award winning Portola Hotel & Spa and dinner for four at Peter B’s Brewpub. There are plenty of other prizes including Growler’s of Peter B’s craft beer, T-shirts and more! The winners will be announced on June 18^th with more details on Peter B’s Brewpub’s Facebook page. Do yourself and Dad a favor and get him something great for Father’s Day.

Now there are some people who might not win, but don’t fear, Central Coast living has the Top 10 cool things to do on the Peninsula for Father’s Day:

Hike Garland Ranch. It’s free and it’s a fantastic way to spend time with Dad.
Golf at Pebble Beach: There is a special rate on father’s day and trust me, dad will get off the couch
Skydiving in Marina. Dad will like that you see him as young.
Fishing on Monterey Bay. Quintessential Dad!
Catch a Game at Peter B’s Brewpub. All of the action and none of the traffic.
Lunch on the couch and the U.S. Open. The final round of our national championship and a great sandwich from one of the area’s incredible delis.
Sailing on Monterey Bay. There are a number of charter’s available and again, who doesn’t love the ocean.
Golf. ‘Nuff said.
Catch a Classic Car Show or a race at Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway. You might have to wait a couple of weeks, but summer brings a bevy of auto events of all shapes and sizes.
Rent a Kayak or Paddle Board. Who doesn’t love the ocean?

Tags: Brewpub, Craft Beer, Monterey, Portola Hotel
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Firkin Kegs

Thursday, May 17th, 2012

Peter B’s Black IPA Firkin Keg with Masterbrewer Kevin Clark

One of the best things to come out of the Craft Beer movement is the new and innovative brewing methods and equipment that have come into use. Many brewers and breweries will refer to a Firkin Keg in their literature. The term Firkin is actually an old Dutch unit of measurement, about ten gallons. Consequently, it is that measurement that refers to the Firkin Keg, which was an old wooden cask that ale used to be stored in. It holds about the same amount as a modern “pony keg”, but has a rounded shape that permits the flavor rich sediment to collect at the bottom without allowing it to escape the tap. Many beer aficionados and brewers refer to this as cask ale or cask beer when it is served directly from this specialized keg.

Tapping the Firkin Keg

Peter B’s Brewpub Master Brewer Kevin Clark further describes the use of the Firkin Keg. “Most larger batches of beer are force carbonated. A brewer will inject the batch to bring it to a certain level of carbonation. A cask ale or lager is naturally carbonated as the cask or keg is filled directly from the fermenting vessel. The yeast is still alive and active and continues to consume the additional sugar added to the cask thereby creating my natural carbonation. This creates a very special beer that is conditioned to be smooth and gentle.”

Peter B’s Firkin Keg Black IPA

Peter B’s utilizes this method and others to create a variety of specialty and seasonal offerings that are available at select times throughout the year. To learn more about this process and the brewing of beers in general stop by and the knowledgeable staff at Peter B’s Brewpub will introduce you to a whole new world of taste excitement.

Tags: Brewpub, Craft Beer, Firkin
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