Inaugural meet up of Garden County Brewers
The long awaited first meeting of Wicklow County Brewers (Dargle Garglers or Sugarloaf Slurpers, a name is to be decided at a future point) took place last Thursday evening in Holland’s bar, Main st, Bray.
Hollands is fast becoming a major player in the craft beer market with a wide selection on tap, friendly and knowledgeable staff, it boasts a pleasant relaxed atmosphere. Holland’s also supports an award winning off-licence with a huge selection of craft beer and more recently a growler filling service.
Damo has volunteered to lead the NHC charge from the front with his 1st Lieutenant, Ciderhead, representing Wicklow.
12 Apostles met for the very first time, with 2 apologies, the majority are accomplished AG brewers including a brace of 10 gallon boys. That didn’t stop them boring the pants off some newbies by showing them pictures of their set ups like proud parents.
There is an amazing level of enthusiasm within the group and the meeting was like a bunch of excited kids at Christmas time. Simon brought a bottle Pliny and Ciderhead a bottle of Fran Well aged in Jameson Barrels, both going down a bomb.
The NHC was discussed and new recruits press-ganged. A major topic on the night was of course the barrel and recipe and that will be circulated.
Novices were teamed up with hardened old brewing farts as cheap labour, which means everybody will get a share.
The “Bray Brauhaus” will be cleared of furniture next week and a comprehensive detailed plan has been put in place to deliver 220 Litres in 5 weeks time.
The hospitality shown to us by Brian Holland and his staff, including free beer was amazing.
We all fell out after 4 hours of drinking and are looking forward to the next meet up in June.
