Talking Head - Brewing news you can use

Beer Release Calendar

If you are having trouble keeping up with all the seasonal beers and special releases from America’s craft breweries, the Brewers Association has a handy resource for you. Seasonal Beer throughout the Year is a database of limited edition beers keyed to the seasons and the states where they are sold. The breweries provide the data for each entry, which includes the style, a brief description, suggested food pairings, and brewery contact information. Currently there are about 22 winter releases listed that are available in Georgia, and the list will certainly expand as more breweries contribute to the database.

Give a Little, Get a Lot

Cypress Street Pint and Plate in Midtown has recently upgraded its draft lineup to include some excellent choices (Schneider Aventinus, Sweetwater Festive Ale, Chimay Triple). They also have a nice selection of bottles. Next Saturday, Nov. 22, from 2-7 p.m., the bar will host a Thanksgiving turkey dinner to benefit Atlanta Community Food Bank. Admission is at least one can of food and includes a free turkey dinner, beer specials and live music. More details and an updated beer list can be found here.

Thursday Night Beer Tastings at Muss and Turner’s

The regular Thursday night beer tastings at Muss and Turner’s in Smyrna are a great way to learn about beers styles, as “Beer Maestro” Jessica Moss serves up six examples of a chosen style each week. From now through the end of the year she offers a tantalizing slate of seasonal releases, including Holiday Food Beers this Thursday (11/13), followed by Trappist ales (11/20), stouts (12/4), strong ales (12/11), and more holiday beers served with cheese (12/18). The tastings run from 6:30-8 p.m. and are $15 per person. The cheese pairing in December will be $20. Seating is limited so e-mail reservations@mussandturners.com to reserve your place.

Athens Pub Crawl

Terrapin Beer Company will host a tour of the best Athens beer bars on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Tickets can be purchased at the brewery for $30. The price includes five Terrapin beers and a T-shirt.