DC Brewery Tour # 3 – Atlas Brew Works


Our final stop in the federal district is in the Ivy City neighborhood in Northeast DC at Atlas Brew Works and their 100% solar-powered brewery.

Here are the beers that I would add to my initial taster tray…
District Common
“Inspired by the beers that accompanied America’s westward expansion, District Common is fermented using lager yeast at temperatures common to ale fermentation. The result is a pale, well-balanced beer combining crisp lager character with fruity ale notes. The clean grain bill provides a refreshing drinkability and supports late aroma additions of Czech Saaz hops.”

South Cap Helles
“Named after the home field of the District’s favorite ball club, the 1500 is a crisp, craft lager perfect for a sunny afternoon in the bleachers. Made with aromatic Munich malt and earthy American hops, it is a Washingtonian take on a traditional German Helles.”

Home Rule IPL
“Home Rule, a style-defying India Pale Lager, is as delicious as it is unique. A pilsner malt base and Atlas’ house lager yeast provide a clean and crisp backdrop for late and dry hop additions of Southern hemisphere hops. New Zealand Waimea hops impart key lime notes that pair excellently with the tropical fruit notes of Australian Galaxy hops.”

Rowdy Rye Beer
“Made with three varieties of hops and a generous amount of specialty malts, Rowdy offers a complex flavor and aroma that is both aggressive and fun. The addition of malted rye to the grain bill lends a peppery and distinct character to the beer which complements the bitterness and floral notes of brewhouse hop additions. Finally, this copper-hued ale receives a liberal addition of dry hops in the fermenting vessel, imparting citrus aromas and a crisp, clean finish.”

DC Brewery # 2 – Atlas Brew Works

Combine an experienced home brewer with a former brewer from Telegraph and Pyramid and you have the makings (along with a shared history at Vanderbilt University) for Atlas Brew Works.
atlas-beer-works-logo-200x200
Here is the back story for this DC area start-up:
“Experienced homebrewer Justin Cox is teaming up with longtime friend and accomplished commercial brewer Will Durgin to bring the District of Columbia fresh craft beer from Northeast DC. Atlas Brew Works plans to install its 20 barrel brew house at 2052 West Virginia Ave NE and begin producing unique local brews in the first quarter of 2013.
Atlas Brew Works’ beer portfolio will include American style craft ales and lagers along with an extensive sour and barrel aging program. The beers will be crafted with careful consideration to food pairings and a flare for experimentation.”

I hope to hear more about their beers and brewery in the future!