The continued pandemic has not stopped breweries from opening up and now I travel to San Fernando to the still in softly opened phase, Shadow Grove Brewing.
Now, this is a curated space. From the outside, you cannot tell what you are walking into. Which is a woodland, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. The outside windows let in plenty of light but the inside is moody with distinct seating areas. British punk on the playlist added another note to the experience.
Five beers on tap for this second soft weekend. An old school classic style set. So old school that there was a Nut Brown on offer. No IPA either. You read that right. And the taster comes with what looks like a tarot card. Nice Wonderland touch. I also liked that they had a little chalkboard with which beer is low. Nice sales touch that.
Pale Ale was my least favorite. It was fine. More earthy than hoppy which actually fits the motif but I am looking for a divergent note when you have this type of list. The lager was fine as well, had a bit of wine character to me. The Hefeweizen hit the banana clove combo well and had a nice spritz to it. Three beers in, I an thinking that they are off fo a solid start. That this isn’t just atmosphere. The Nut Brown is on mark. Perfect for watching the new season of the Premier League. Everything is so low ABV too which is great. The sweet stout hit the markers as well.
I do not say this lightly or often but do not sleep on Shadow Grove.
