-The Beercat
Sunday Fundays are for exploring new places, right? Having beer involved just makes it that much more fun. On a chili Sunday afternoon I headed out to Bad Tom Smith Brewing, my first trip down to the ‘bad ass brewery.’ Why it took my so long to seek this place out, I’m not sure because they’re about everything that I’m into. Beer and history! Bad Tom Smith was an actual person and quite notorious around these parts. I won’t give you a history lesson but I will let them tell you their story. I love this…
The Place
What I’m about to say isn’t mean to be a bad thing at all, actually the exact opposing. Bad Tom Smith, at its current location will remind you of the Cincinnati craft beer scene about 4 years ago. It’s smaller than it should be with only on street parking in a not so popular part of town. Which is exactly why I really liked it. It’s not a multimillion dollar taproom or landmark that you would use to give someone directions. It’s simpler than that. It’s a brewery with a cool story/brand and good beer. It’s easy enough to get to and once you’re in the taproom your treated like Norm from Cheers.
Like I said it was my first time visiting this place but the other patrons and the beertender were all super friendly and ready to welcome you to a place they call home. The brewhouse and tanks are just off to the side of the taproom, which you know I like to see. They also have board games and a TV for your viewing please. One cool thing about this taproom too is that it’s dog friendly. Being a dog dad I can appreciate this.
The Beer
First off, Bad Tom Smith has a great deal on flights, the more you order the cheaper they get. I went for the deal and got 2 flights, or 8 beers. I wanted to make the most of my time there. Here are three that I thought really stood out.
The first one from the get go was a great choice. They called it Wicked Sheryl’s Blush Pale Ale. It checks in 6.2% abv and 28 ibu. It’s a strawberry infused pale ale and it was very refreshing. Easily good for a growler fill for a grill out in the spring.
Next, I had the Jailbreak Churro Brown Ale. It checks in at 6.2% abv and 28 ibu as well. With hints of chocolate and waves of cinnamon and sweetness they hit the nail on the head for a churro inspired beer.
Finally, I saved the Coal Hearted Killer, Russian Imperial Stout for last. I almost didn’t get this beer in my flight but I’m really glad I did. It was easily my favorite of the day. This is a big beer. It checks in at 11.9% abv and 57 ibu. It’s a jet black beer with a thick chocolate backbone and smooth roasted coffee notes. It was great for a chili winter day.
Overall
In the picture below you’ll see some blue prints for a new Bad Tom Smith that is in the works. They’re planning to move neighborhoods and upgrade their facilities. If I were you I’d get down to current day Bad Tom Smith Brewing before they make the jump. Their taproom is everything a local neighborhood brewery should be with little intricoes and a ton of character. The service is top notch and the beer is spot on with great stories behind them.
To Connect
You can find out more about Bad Tom Smith on their website or on social media.
www.badtomsmithbrewing.com Social Media @BadTomBrewing