"Lost Coast Brewery and Her story"
I say her story because this brewery is the brain child of Barbara Groom. In 1986, the then pharmacist had a dream to open brewpub. After years of honing her skills as a home brewer, traveling throughout England and Wales and visiting scores of pubs, she was ready to transform her dream into a reality.
After purchasing a historic 100 year old building in downtown Eureka, known as the Pythian Castle, the dream was coming to fruition. An extensive remodel ensued and in nearly half a year, the Lost Coast Brewery and Cafe were ready to open by July of 1990.
The cool maritime climate of the Humboldt Bay region has proved to be very productive to brewing quality ales. The year round average temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for top-fermenting ale yeast. Master Brewer Barbara Groom has long embraced the traditions of English-style ales, but has added her own West Coast flair to the mix as well.
Our drive through the endless green Humboldt Region
I fell in love with this brewery and it's Downtown Brown several years ago. The label was quirky and eye-catching, the beer was outstanding! My first brown ale ever was a Newcastle and I was immediately hooked! I loved the nutty, roast flavors and off dry finish (truth be told, I was not a fan of overly hopped beers back then). This Lost Coast beer was all that and then some. The nose had hints of toffee, cocoa nibs and Brazilian coffee. The color was substantially darker than those caramel colored Newcastles, and the taste...so much more complex. This full bodied nut brown ale was rich and creamy, with coffee and Almond Roca flavors on the palate with a bitter, Belgian chocolate kissed finish.
Today we celebrate National Beer Day in the United States. On March 22, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law the Cullen-Harrison Act, which allowed people to buy, sell and drink beer containing up to 3.2% alcohol by weight or 4.05% by volume. The law went into effect that year on April 7. Upon signing the legislation, Roosevelt made his famous remark, "I think this would be a good time for a beer." The National Beer Day was first created in 2009 by Justin Smith of Richmond, Va. So let's raise a glass of the bitter stuff and give cheers!
If you are ever making your way through the sleepy town of Eureka, make sure you put this on your map for good food and great beer!
Cheers to you Barbara!
