When I got the invite to spend a night sipping beer with the Concord Area Homebrewers, I wasn't sure what to expect. A tasting experience with my amateur cider-making cousin years ago had left me leery about drinking things that had aged or matured in a basement.
But on a recent summer night when I arrived at Ed Ramshaw's home on Clinton Street, a spraypainted golden keg out front to light my way, it became clear these people were professionals.
Once a month, the Concord Area Homebrewers get together to sip some of the concoctions crafted by other members and to talk about, well, beer. The brewers typically go in on a large bulk of ingredients together and share the fruits of their labor with others that appreciate what they do.
The night started with a beer called Velvet Elvis Russian imperial stout. Ed handed me a small sipping glass filled with the darker-than-midnight ale, which had a sweet, smooth, coffee-like taste. The group, about 12 guys in total, admired its texture and full body.
Next up was a rhubarb saison beer brewed by Chris Killinger. The beer had a tangy, sugary, almost farmy flavor and went well with the corn and black bean salsa the group served. Living in New England, Killinger said, can make it difficult to get ingredients locally. Several of the brewers are growing their own hops, but it's a process that can take a few years. Rhubarb was easy to find, he said, so he tried it.
After a few more beers, it was time to get down to business. The meeting was called to order, the agenda distributed. A hush came over the crowd. The first item for discussion, Ed told us, was the homebrewers jamboree.
As it turned out, Ed had an ulterior motive for inviting me to the meeting. He wants people to know about this homebrewers jamboree, which actually sounds pretty awesome.
Every fall, homebrewers from across New England descend upon Campton for a weekend of food, music, camping and, of course, beer.
Local beer crafters submit their brews in a range of competitions, and there's plenty around to taste.
The jamboree is happening the weekend of Sept. 11, and all profits from the event go toward the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Hampshire.
The club is open to anyone who wants in. If you're interested in joining, just show up. Meeting times and location are posted on the group's Facebook page (facebook.com/concordareahomebrewers).
For more info on the jamboree, visit homebrewersjamboree.com.
