Anacortes Brewery Releases / Rockfish Grill Events for Nov 2024

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New Releases:

Hazy On You ( ABV 6.0% / IBU 35 ) Our Hazy is made with premium two row malt, white wheat and Vienna along with hop additions of Citra and Cascade. This beer is low in bitterness, but with a juicy flavor and mouthfeel. Let the hops shine, and let us go hazy, hazy on you!

Scarlet Letter IPA (ABV 6.5% / 65 IBU) Our Scarlet Letter recipe features a synergistic malt character from two row, C40 and Munich malt varieties with a touch of roasted barley for color, combining Cascade and Columbus hops in the boil and dry hopping from Ekuanot varieties.

Upcoming Events:

Pints for Polio (Rotary Fundraiser) – 5 PM Fri 11/1, Rockfish Grill
Hops on the Rock – 11AM-4PM Eastsound, Orcas Island

Rockfish Grill Entertainment Calendar:

11/2 – Billy Appleton Band 7:30PM

11/6 – Whistle Lake Jazz Quartet 6PM

11/9 – CD Woodbury 7:30PM

11/13 – Andre Feriante 6PM

11/16 – Powerhouse 7:30PM

11/20 – Delta Promenade 6PM

11/23 – Polly O’Keary and the Rhythm Method 7:30PM

11/27 – Fidalgo Swing

11/30 – Cascadia Groove 7:30PM

 

Preview:

12/7 – Harp Attack with the Mark Dufresne Band and Special Guests Andy Koch and Ted Hennessey 7:30PM

Garden Path Fermentation releases 2022 Skagit County Chardonnay!

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Garden Path Fermentation is thrilled to announce the release of our first wine in two years: 2022 Skagit County Chardonnay. While most of our production has historically involved beer and cider, Garden Path’s wine program extends back to 2018 and remains very close to our hearts.

Our wine program follows the same ethos as our other fermented products: using only locally sourced ingredients, native yeast, and minimal intervention with fermentation. Local sourcing is, frankly, our biggest challenge with winemaking. While Washington is a fantastic state in which to grow wine grapes, the Puget Sound AVA–with cooler summers and early rain–has proven to be much more challenging than other regions. This is why we don’t necessarily release a wine every year. Sometimes harvest just doesn’t work out as planned.

2022 was bountiful, however. Summer was warm and the rain mostly held off until later in October, so we were able to source a multitude of wine grapes. This particular batch was made from 2000 pounds of Chardonnay grown by our friend Chuck Jackson at Skagit Crest in Sedro-Woolley, and was picked October 24, 2022, right as the season swung from warm late summer days to fall storms and overnight frost. The majority of the fruit was pressed, whole cluster, with a portion of it being destemmed, crushed, and allowed to macerate for seven days before fermenting in neutral French oak barrels for seven months on lees. It was bottled June 1, 2023 without any additional filtration, finings, or sulfur.

Immediately, this wine presents somewhat tight and flinty. As it opens up in the glass, we pick up aromatic notes of honeydew melon (both the flesh and rind), eucalyptus, menthol, and sage. Candied lemon peel and bright, soft acids follow on the palate. The finish is mineral and crisp.

While it’s under a cap closure, this wine is only very lightly effervescent. We do recommend enjoying it fresh, chilled, and immediately. Pairs well with breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Skagit County Chardonnay is available in bottles and by the glass in the Garden Path Fermentation tasting room, The Great Northern Bottle Shop & Lounge, and some select on-premise accounts in Washington, and can also be purchased at our online shop.

 

Savor the Best of Skagit: Unveiling the Farm to Pint Fest Pairing Menu!

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The highly anticipated Skagit Farm to Pint Fest is back, and this year, we’re elevating the experience with a specially curated pairing menu that highlights the very best of Skagit Valley’s local flavors. From craft beers brewed with locally sourced ingredients to dishes crafted by the region’s most innovative chefs, this event promises to be a celebration of everything that makes our community unique and delicious.

A Festival of Local Flavors

Skagit Farm to Pint Fest is more than just a beer festival—it’s a showcase of our community’s dedication to local, sustainable food and drink. This year, we’ve teamed up with local breweries, chefs, farmers, and artisans to create an unforgettable tasting journey that pairs Skagit-grown brews with farm-fresh bites. Each pairing has been thoughtfully designed to bring out the best in both the food and the drink, allowing you to truly savor the flavors of our region.

What to Expect from the Pairing Menu

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exciting pairings you can look forward to at this year’s Skagit Farm to Pint Fest:

  • Alma Cider + Chef Christy Fox
    Pairing: Alma Dry, Alma Rose, or Alma Hopped + Spicy Curry Red Lentil with Beetroot Raita & Crispy Leeks
    Local Ingredients: Ralph’s Greenhouse, The Crows Farm, Samish Bay Cheese, Cabrera Farm, Hedlin’s Family Farm, Rabbit Fields Farm
    Why It Works: The bright, crisp notes of Alma’s ciders perfectly balance the spicy, earthy flavors of the curry lentil dish, while the beetroot raita adds a refreshing touch.
  • Birdsview Brewing Co. + Chef Courtney Bourasaw
    Pairing: Ditsy Blonde or Fruit Lager + Beer Braised Beef Stew
    Local Ingredients: Skiyou Ranch, First Cut Farm, Ralph’s Greenhouse, Moga Farms
    Why It Works: The light, refreshing profile of the Ditsy Blonde and the subtle fruitiness of the lager complement the rich, hearty flavors of the beer-braised beef stew, creating a comforting and satisfying pairing.
  • Bastion Brewing Co. + Bastion Kitchen
    Pairing: Lupulin Cowboy (Amarillo fresh hop pale ale) or Breakwater (Vienna lager) + Cherry wood smoked, Texas-style brisket with Bastion Red BBQ sauce & Carolina Gold BBQ sauce + Northwest Onion Soup
    Local Ingredients: La Conner Gardens
    Why It Works: The smoky, robust flavors of the brisket are enhanced by the hop-forward pale ale and the smooth maltiness of the Vienna lager, making each bite a bold and savory experience.
  • Cardinal Craft Brewing + Skagit Valley College Culinary Arts
    Pairing: Vanilla Porter or Amber Lager + Chocolate Stout Cupcake
    Local Ingredients: Cardinal Craft Beer
    Why It Works: The rich, creamy vanilla porter and the smooth amber lager pair beautifully with the decadent chocolate stout cupcake, making this a sweet and indulgent end to your tasting journey.
  • Chuckanut Brewery + True North Bakery
    Pairing: Fest Bier (Dortmunder style lager) + Margherita Pizza Bite
    Local Ingredients: Hedlin’s Family Farm
    Why It Works: The crisp, clean flavors of the Dortmunder-style lager enhance the fresh, zesty notes of the Margherita pizza bite, creating a refreshing, easygoing pairing that’s perfect for any palate.

These are just a few of the incredible pairings awaiting you at Skagit Farm to Pint Fest. Each combination showcases the artistry of local chefs and brewers, delivering a unique taste of Skagit Valley with every sip and bite. Be sure to try them all and discover your new favorite pairing!

Meet the Makers

Part of the magic of the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest is the opportunity to meet the makers behind your favorite brews and bites. Chat with local brewers about their craft, learn from chefs about the inspiration behind their dishes, and discover the stories of the farmers who grow the ingredients. It’s a chance to connect with the community in a meaningful way, all while enjoying incredible food and drink.

Supporting Local and Sustainable

By attending the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest, you’re not just treating your taste buds—you’re supporting a local, sustainable food system. Each dish and brew is a testament to the hard work and passion of our local farmers, brewers, and chefs who prioritize sustainability and quality. The festival highlights the importance of buying local and supporting businesses that are committed to keeping Skagit Valley’s rich agricultural traditions alive.

Get Your Tickets Today!

The Skagit Farm to Pint Fest pairing menu is a unique culinary experience you won’t want to miss. Tickets are limited, so grab yours today and get ready to explore the best of Skagit Valley’s food and drink scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, this festival is the perfect way to discover the flavors that define our community.

BUY TICKETS
September 28, 2-5:30
La Conner Marina

Join us at the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest and savor the best of Skagit, one pairing at a time!

Anacortes Brewery Releases / Rockfish Grill Events for Oct 2024

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New Releases:

Halloweizen (ABV 5% / IBU 20) Our 2024 pumpkin wheat ale is brewed with cinnamon and allspice plus local Skagit valley grown pumpkins roasted in a wood fired oven. It’s topped off with sneaky banana and clove aromas from our traditional Bavarian hefeweizen yeast.

Belgian Strong (8.1% ABV / 20 IBU) This collaboration beer with Menace in Bellingham and Beach Cat in Blaine has a golden hue, a bready aroma, subtle alcohol sweetness and low bitterness from Saaz hops.

Belgian Dubbel (6.9% ABV / 25 IBU) This delicious dark ale is a collaboration between Anacortes, Menace and Belgian. This Belgian classic is bursting with soft malt and dark fruit with a light alcohol warmth.

Upcoming Events:

Beer Near the Pier, Fri-Sat Oct 4-5, Anacortes Depot

Great Pumpkin Beer Fest, Fri-Sat Oct 4-5, Seattle Center

Oktobearfest, Sat Oct 5, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle

Rotary at the Ranch Fundraiser, Sat Oct 26, Wisteria Gardens Anacortes

Rockfish Grill Entertainment Calendar:

10/2 – Trish Hatley 6PM

10/5 – The Unknowns 7:30PM

10/9 – Jennifer Howard 6PM

10/12 – Silver Tongued Devils 7:30PM

10/16 – Michael Wisniewski 6PM

10/19 – Eric Rice and the Maine Connection 7:30PM

10/23 – Janette West 6PM

10/26 – Fat Fridays 7:30PM

10/30 – Pension King and the Dependents 7:30PM

Preview:

11/2 – Billy Appleton Band 7:30PM

Join the Fun: Volunteer at the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest!

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Are you passionate about local food, craft beer, and community events? Do you enjoy connecting with people and being part of something special? Then we have the perfect opportunity for you! The Skagit Farm to Pint Fest is just around the corner, and we’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make this year’s festival the best one yet!

What is the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest?

The Skagit Farm to Pint Fest is a unique celebration of everything that makes Skagit Valley special—its local farms, craft breweries, and the vibrant community that brings it all together. This festival is more than just an event; it’s a showcase of the local farm-to-pint movement, featuring exclusive beer tastings, live music, and delicious food. It’s where beer lovers and foodies unite to enjoy the freshest brews, made with ingredients grown right here in the Valley.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering at the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest offers a chance to:

  • Be Part of a Dynamic Team: Meet new people, make friends, and work alongside a diverse group of volunteers who share your love for craft beer, local food, and community spirit.
  • Support Local Businesses: By volunteering, you’re directly supporting local farmers, brewers, and artisans who make Skagit Valley unique.
  • Enjoy Festival Perks: As a volunteer, you’ll receive free entry to the festival.
  • Give Back to the Community: Your time and energy help make this event possible, and all proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations focused on sustainability, agriculture, and community development.

What Roles Are Available?

We have a variety of roles to suit different interests and skills:

  • Event Set-Up Crew: Help us get everything ready! This involves setting up, arranging tables and chairs, and preparing the festival grounds for an unforgettable experience.
  • Guest Greeters and Check-In Assistants: Be the welcoming face of the festival! Assist with guest check-in, provide information, and help ensure everyone has a great time from the moment they arrive.
  • Activity Coordinators: From managing games to assisting with special events, this role is perfect for anyone who loves interacting with festival-goers and keeping the fun going.
  • Event Break-Down Crew: After the fun is over, we need help cleaning up and breaking down the event. It’s a crucial role that ensures everything is left in great shape.

How to Sign Up

Ready to join the fun? Signing up is easy! Just email Blake Van Roekel (info@genuineskagitvalley.com) with your contact information, preferred roles, and availability. Blake will be in touch with all the details and next steps!

When and Where?

  • Date: 9/28/24
  • Location: La Conner Marina
  • Time: Volunteer shifts are available throughout the day; you can choose a shift that works best for you!

No Experience? No Problem!

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or a first-timer, we welcome everyone with open arms! We’ll provide all the training you need to feel comfortable and confident in your role. All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and a love for good beer and good times!

Join Us in Making a Difference!

By volunteering at the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest, you’re not just helping with an event—you’re fostering a sense of community, celebrating local culture, and contributing to a sustainable future for Skagit Valley. So, grab a friend (or two!) and sign up today to be part of this unforgettable celebration!

Questions?

If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to Blake –  info@genuineskagitvalley.com or call 503.753.1655.  We can’t wait to have you on board!

Get ready to raise a glass, make new friends, and enjoy a fantastic day at the Skagit Farm to Pint Fest. See you there! 🍻🌾

Anacortes Brewery Releases / Rockfish Grill Events for Sept 2024

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New Releases:

Oyster Run Light (ABV 4.2% / IBU 12) – The official beer of the Oyster Run, the largest motorcycle rally in the Pacific Northwest. This beer is straw-colored, hopped for balance and lighter in alcohol. Get your motor runnin’ with this great tasting light beer!

Fresh Hop Pale Ale – This highly anticipated seasonal is made with 2 row and Vienna malts for a dark straw color and features major hop flavor and aroma from copious amounts of fresh hops collected from Carpenter Ranches in Granger WA.

Oktoberfest (ABV 5.4% / IBU 30) – Malty and full bodied, this savory beer celebrates the traditional Bavarian festival. Delicately hopped and lagered for 8 weeks in our authentic cold storage cellar.

Upcoming Events:
Camp Korey BBQ Competition, Sat Sept 7, Mount Vernon

Brewfest on the Skagit, Sat Sept 7, Downtown Mount Vernon

Oyster Run, Sun Sept 22, Downtown Anacortes

Skagit Farm to Pint Fest, Sat Sept 28, LaConner Marina

Bier Near the Pier, Fri-Sat Oct 4-5, Anacortes Depot

Great Pumpkin Beer Fest, Fri-Sat Oct 4-5, Seattle Center

Rockfish Grill Entertainment Calendar:

9/4 – Whistle Lake Jazz Quartet 6PM

9/7 – Ebb, Slack and Flood 7:30PM

9/11 – JP Valentine 6PM

9/14 – Joel Astley 7:30PM

9/18 – Dana Osborn 6PM

9/21 – Billy Appleton 7:30PM

9/25 – Fidalgo Swing 6PM

9/28 – North Country Highway 7:30PM

Preview:

10/5 – The Unknowns 7:30PM

CHUCKANUT BREWERY OKTOBERFEST IS COMING

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Time to get out your Laderhosen and Dirndles, start vocalizing for the Yodeling Contest, strengthen those arm muscles for the Liter Holding Contest (it’s harder than you think), get your eye hand coordination sharpened for the Hammerschlagen Contest because Chuckanut Brewery Oktoberfest is almost here. The big party celebrating the coming of fall happens on Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 12-close at Chuckanut Brewery (11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington) in Skagit Valley and P. Nut Beer Hall (920 SE Caruthers St) in Portland.

Chuckanut Brewery’s family style traditional Oktoberfest encourages everyone to have a good time. Entry is free for all. Besides all the contests and chicken dancing you can have fun playing Corn Hole, Giant Jenga and other garden games There will be lots to do all day and into the night. Chuckanut’s award winning German style biers will be on tap along with some food pop ups to satisfy your appetite. Don’t worry about the rain because we’ll have a big ole tent at South Nut in Burlington and all the indoor spaces at P. Nut! And of course there will be lots of Oktoberfest music in case you want to polka!

And did we mention lots of Chuckanut beer? Our Fest Bier and Marzen Fest with be on tap along with Pilsner, Kolsch and other lagers and ales. Don’t forget to pick up some Liter and half liter mugs to take home for your own Oktoberfest. Prost!

Chuckanut Brewery brews award winning Lagers and Ales and has won Large Brewery of the Year at WA Beer Awards 2017, 2019 and 2021 and Small Brewery at the GABF 2011. The production facility and Tap Room is in Skagit Valley at 11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington, WA. Chuckanut Brewery’s P. Nut Beer Hall is at 920 SE Caruthers St, Portland.  Both locations welcome guests of all ages and have indoor and outdoor seating! Check out additional information about Chuckanut at chuckanutbrewery.com.

 

Anacortes Brewery Releases / Rockfish Grill Events for Aug 2024

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New Releases:

Sergeant Peppercorn’s Lonely Hearts Club Ale (ABV 5% / IBU 25) Our 30th anniversary beer is a refreshing Belgian farmhouse-style Saison with unique spiciness from 4 varieties of fresh ground peppercorn plus grains of paradise. Saaz hops provide balance throughout. Guaranteed to raise a smile!

Arts Festival Amber (ABV 5.5% / IBU 40) The official beer of the Anacortes Arts Festival, this elegant northwest-style Amber Ale is medium bodied with a slight piney character and a subtle malty twang. Columbus & Cascade hops provide a crisp balance.

Whistle Lake Weizen (ABV 4.7% / IBU 18) Our award-winning Hefeweizen has a cloudy golden color and a full, fruity aroma. Bavarian yeast produces striking banana & clove notes with a mild tartness a dry finish. It’s the perfect thirst quencher!

Upcoming Events:

Anacortes Arts Festival, Beer Garden, 3rd St and Commercial Ave, Fri-Sun 8/2-4

Heart of Anacortes Concert Series, corner of 4th and O St, Anacortes:

Anacortes Brewery 30th Anniversary Celebration with

Whistle Lake Jazz Quartet and Special Guests, Pension King and the Dependents
and The Flaming Pies Beatles Tribute. Food, Beer Garden, Giveaways, All Ages 3-8PM Sat 8/10

Rick Epting Foundation Fund Raiser with the Savage Blues Band 5PM Sat 8/17

The Hip 6PM Sat 8/24

The Atlantics 6PM Sat 8/31

Rockfish Grill Entertainment Calendar:

8/3 – Powerhouse 7:30PM

8/7 – Joan Penney 6PM

8/10 – The Problem 7:30PM

8/14 – Christina Atteberry 6PM

8/17 – Joe Cook 7:30PM

8/21 – Wayne Hayton 6PM

8/22 – Too Slim and the Taildraggers 7:30PM

8/24 – Tea Seas Trio 7:30PM

8/28 – Trish Hatley 6PM

8/30 – Howard Levy 7:30PM

8/31 – The Colonel 7:30PM

Preview:

9/14 – Joel Astley 7:30PM

Rockfish Grill and Anacortes Brewery

320 Commercial Ave

Anacortes WA 98221

anacortesrockfish.com

CHUCKANUT BREWERY SWEET SIXTEEN PARTY JULY 27

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Can you believe it, yes Chuckanut Brewery is inviting everyone to its Sweet Sixteen birthday on July 27th. Join the party for a fantastic celebration as the brewery marks its 16th anniversary. On Saturday, July 27 from 12-close both South Nut Tap Room in Skagit Valley and P. Nut Beer Hall in Portland, OR will enjoy an exciting day filled with delicious brews, fun games, mouthwatering street food and all kinds of special deals! Show your love for the Northwest’ premier lager brewery and come out to one of the two Chuckanut Brewery locations (11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington and 920 SE Caruthers St, Portland). In the 16 years Chuckanut has been brewing beer they have won 26 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) Awards including Small Brewery/Small Brewpub of the Year twice, 7 World Beer Cup Medals, 52 Washington Beer Award Medals including 3 Large Brewery of the Year Awards, 2 Best of Craft medals and multiple smaller medals too numerous to mention. July 27 will be an epic party for the best in NW craft beer!

Pick up one of Chuckanut’s great Tshirts for $20 and savor a pint of Chuckanut’s flagship beers Bohemian Pilsner and Chuckanut Kolsch for only $5 a pour. At South Nut in the beer garden challenge your friends and family with a variety of yard games, including cornhole, junk in the trunk, frisbee showdown and other fun games. Or enjoy table games inside at both P. Nut and South Nut and try your hand at darts and foosball at P. Nut. Indulge your sweet tooth with delectable treats from Suss Candy, perfect for a Sweet 16 celebration at South Nut. And if you’re hungry P. Nut in Portland will have its permanent food truck Street Dogos dishing up Mexican street food while South Nut will host Poke Me (https://www.pokeme.biz/) Hawaiian Fusion on the go.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable day of fun, camaraderie, food and great beer at Chuckanut Brewery and join in an awesome party for  Chuckanut Brewery’s 16th birthday in style!

Chuckanut Brewery brews award winning Lagers and Ales and has won Large Brewery of the Year at WA Beer Awards 2017, 2019 and 2021 and Small Brewery at the GABF 2011 and 2009. The production facility and Tap Room is in Skagit Valley at 11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington, WA. Chuckanut Brewery’s P. Nut Beer Hall is at 920 SE Caruthers St, Portland.  Both locations welcome guests of all ages and have indoor and outdoor seating! P. Nut has the Mexican Street Food Truck called Dogos. Check out additional information about Chuckanut at chuckanutbrewery.com.

The Sun Beams! A Garden Path Fermentation Release

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Burlington, Washington – June 25, 2024 – By Garden Path Fermentation

This Saturday, June 29th, Garden Path Fermentation will release The Sun Beams ! Our newest beer is a dry hopped summer crusher which we previewed at last weekend’s Washington Brewers Fest and will soon have available on draft at both of our locations–our Skagit Valley tasting room at 11653 Higgins Airport Way in Burlington, and at The Great Northern Bottle Shop & Lounge, at 1319 Commercial St. in downtown Bellingham.

We wanted to make the perfect beer for that magical time in the PNW when the sun finally emerges from behind the clouds. This is a dry-hopped 4.4% ABV bière de coupage–that is, a blend of relatively young beer and older, barrel-aged beer. It’s delicate, bright, easy-drinking, and a wonderful way to salute the sun.

The base for The Sun Beams. was brewed last summer, using yeast we cultivated from bottles of Our First Take Time.–the first beer we brewed at Garden Path Fermentation. The grain bill was a 50/50 mix of Skagit Valley Malting Talisman True British barley and malted wheat, with Sterling hops added in the whirlpool. Fermentation took place in an open foudre, with an extended secondary fermentation in stainless. In April of this year, we added a portion of older beer from one of our horizontal foudres to give it a touch of acidity and added depth, dry-hopped it with Loral for an herbal, crisp finish, and keg-conditioned it with local blackberry honey. The end result is an easy-drinking salute to the sunshine with notes of lemon balm, citrus pith, dried herbs, and marigold.

The Sun Beams. is a draft only release and will be available for offsite distribution in 30L and 1/6bbl kegs starting next Wednesday, July 3rd.

Art by Cass Graybeal Brown. Photo by Chris Carley.