The Sequel

Mahar’s, Part Deux, opened yesterday. I’m a stockholder (paid $20 for the title a few year backs), and so when I heard that the second location had opened, Jacob and I went to check it out. The place looks GREAT! Comfy chairs, beautiful bar, wonderful detail everywhere, and all of the books Jim has ever read in the library gave the bar a true pub feel. Since they are still waiting on their liquor license, I had a root beer (does that count on my tour?). Jacob was very attentive waiting for the Amtrak to go by (at 110 mph you’d think it could be there on time), and I took the opportunity to talk to Jim.

First of all, it is really easy to get there. Take 20 East across the Hudson, 9J South to Castleton, and it’s a straight shot (although watch out for speed traps). They’ve decided to run a separate beer list (smart move, allows for bringing in some classics w/o competing with the original location). A modest 10 taps, one dedicated to a different style of beer, so we’ll see how that works out. Don’t ask for cask because it didn’t look like they had a hand-pump (kind of a surprise). A larger selection of food, cheeses and pasties (like a panini for those of you with your minds in the gutter). It’ll be a great place to chill out, bring the family, watch the river and play some games (Jacob beat Laurie in a tight game of dominos).

So we headed back to the home store, and I was rewarded with a pint of Brew Dog Dogma on tap, described as an innovative, enigmatic ale brewed with guarana, poppy seeds and kola nut all blended together with Scottish heather honey. It was delicious, the guarana providing a kick of caffeine that would put many of our coffee stouts to shame. I was also treated with a specialty beer from a famous west coast brewer. Mahar’s was presented with some special bottles, but they weren’t for sale. Instead to get them moving the stakeholders were given a bottle to try at home. As with the Advent Shebeen, it is always great to get bonus beer. – 5508

"Whoever called it near beer was a poor judge of distance." – Anonymous (Prohibition saying)