Commentary by Zach Dunkin
Remember how you disliked history classes because they were all about the past, and you thought it was boring? Well, what if you threw in a few beer tastings to the mix?
That’s what the Hamilton County Bicentennial Brew Tour is all about. Every Sunday afternoon through May 22, one can ride the BrewsLine bus to visit local breweries and sample beers with historical ties.
“Hamilton County has long history with brewed and distilled beverages,” said Darryl Sopoci, owner of the BrewsLine, a Fishers-based beer tour operator. “The first known brewery in the county was around 1865. While we’re on the bus I’ll talk a little bit about the history of the brewery, then the owners will share the back stories behind their beers and about how they are tying their beer to history.”
For example, Grand Junction Brewing Company’s Squirrel Stampede Nut Brown Ale was named for the fleet of migratory squirrels that destroyed crops across the county in the 1800s. In addition to toasting Indiana’s 200th birthday at Westfield’s Grand Junction, participants can raise a glass at Deer Creek Brewery in Noblesville, Deviate Brewing in Carmel and Hollow Brewing Company and Sun King Fishers Tap Room in Fishers.
Cost is $40, and the tour lasts from 12:30 p.m. to approximately 4:30 p.m.. Make reservations at visithamiltoncounty.com/2016/. There are pickup spots in Carmel, Noblesville and Fishers, or if a group books 10 people, the bus will pick the group up at a designated residence. Bus capacity is 12 people.
“At each brewery they are going to get anywhere from three to five samples, including a sample of a specially selected bicentennial beer,” said Sopoci. “Then, they can order more beer or food or they can order carryout in terms of a growler.”
Riders also can legally drink beer on the bus because BrewsLine is classified as a limo service. Coolers will be provided.
