On Tap Launch Party

However, when we find something interesting that we want to be a part of, where do we start?  Where do we go?  Who do I talk to so that I can experience and learn more about this amazing discovery?  Well, if you’re new to the world of craft beer but you want to learn more about it, there’s a new tasting and social club that you might want to be a part of.  The club is called On Tap, and they’re planning to bring craft beer to the mainstream.

On Tap is a beer tasting and social club, and it’s hoping to become an accessible entry point for people wanting to learn about craft beer and a place for fans to learn more about beer, brewing and food pairings from the hosts and special guests.  Sort of like what wine clubs have been for the wine business.  On Tap is led by president, brewer Shae de Jaray.  He’s a brewer at Steamworks Brewing Company, who works along side Steamworks brewmaster Conrad Gmoser.

So on Wednesday November 9^th, I made my way down to the Miele Gallery for the On Tap launch party, to check out Vancouver’s up and coming craft beer club.  It was a very fun and casual event with some great food and beer pairings with very generous servings of beer.  What’s great about this kind of event is that you can learn about food and beer pairings without committing to a whole beer dinner.  Also, it’s going to be a lot more affordable.

Each pairing started off with Shae talking a bit about the beer, and how it’s going to pair with the food.  First on the menu was the Steamworks Great Pumpkin Ale, and that was paired with grilled crostini with a pumpkin mascarpone spread, persimmon, and stilton cheese.

Second on the docket was the Driftwood Fat Tug IPA.  That was paired with duck confit taco with caramelized grapefruit, watercress, and a honey-ginger vinaigrette.

The third was my favorite.  It was the Crannog Back Hand of God Stout paired with Imara espresso crusted heritage angus rib eye steak with an amarena cherry and stout reduction.

On Tap provides a very fun and easy going vibe, so it’s nothing to be intimidated by if you know nothing about craft beer.  You’ll definitely learn a lot, and it’s very affordable.  There are plenty of great craft beer events that cater to the die-hard beer nerds in Vancouver, but it’s great to see something catered to the mainstream.  But On Tap is something the beer nerds would enjoy as well.  So if you want to learn about local craft beers, the local craft beer scene, and how craft beer pairs well with food, you might want to become a member of On Tap.  There seems to be benefits such as specials on beer and events.

Also, On Tap will host will be hosting a public beer pairing event on Dec. 10 from 6-8 at the Miele Gallery for $30.  So make sure you check it out and visit their website:

www.thatswhatsontap.com