Recently, we got to go on a brew tour at Idletyme Brewing Company and sample some of their awesome beers and food.
We first started out in the pub, where the tour begins. We checked out the 3 vessel brew house, which was currently brewing the Pale Ale. They brew different batches 2-3 times a week and each brew size is 10 hectoliters, which breaks down to about 17 full size kegs. The beer lists are always changing, so you never know which one they will be brewing when you visit!
We then headed downstairs, to see the behind the scenes action. There are 4 open fermenters, 4 conditioning tanks, and a 2 bottle system where they hand bottle and hand label each beer.
We found it very interesting that the restaurant itself and the brewery are two separate entities. Technically, Idletyme, the restaurant, is a retailer who purchases their beer from Idletyme, the brewery. This is due to the law in Vermont where breweries are able to self distribute, meaning that the breweries are allowed to directly sell their kegs to a retailer, rather than have to go through a distributer. This is great for smaller breweries, as it cuts out the middle man. The only downside is that the law only allows you to sell within a 100 mile radius, but at least it makes true craft beer a unique, local find!
After the tour, we sat down and enjoyed a brewskis sampler with cheddar fritters and Bavarian pretzel sticks. Both snacks were delicious and we highly recommend them as nothing goes better with beer than fried cheddar cheese and warm pretzels!
Insider Tip: The building that Idletyme is located in holds a special place in many Stowe local’s hearts, as it used to be the iconic Shed Restaurant. You still hear about that legendary “Shed Burger” and their famous beer. While the Shed has been closed for years, you can still get their beer which is bottled in Middlebury, VT at Otter Creek Brewery.
Idletyme Brewing Company, 1859 Mountain Road, Stowe VT 05672
Eat Stowe 