Bridal Brew

My friend P. recently turned me on to this amazing idea that I just HAD to share with you all...  have you ever thought about brewing your own beer and giving  it as gifts to your bridal party or serving it at your wedding?!  I'm not talking about the kind you make in your garage (though I'm sure that is a viable option), I'm talking about going to an actual brewery and working out your own special blend.  How cool would it be to serve your very own customized bridal blend as part of your nuptual celebration?

The place P. and I are so psyched about is called The Brewer's Apprentice (images are all from their website).  Apparently, it is the first place in New Jersey to offer "brew on premises" services, and it seems to have been quite popular!  As an aside, I also love that this is a women-owned business!!

[caption id="attachment_1312" align="aligncenter" width="216" caption="The Owners of The Brewer's Apprentice"][/caption]

So here's how it works.  First, you pay $15 to get your brewer's permit from the great state of New Jersey.  Then, you choose a recipe, selecting anything from light lagers and pilsners to rich stouts and porters.  If there is a commercial beer you usually like, their staff will help you find something similar in their selection.  Next, you are given the ingredients, instructions and a kettle (yes, a kettle!) and you brew away!  Finally, the staff helps you put the beer into tanks where it ferments for two weeks.  When it's ready, you come back and bottle the beer.  They will work with you to select a label, or you can customize your own, so that its perfect for whatever use you have planned. 

[caption id="attachment_1314" align="aligncenter" width="243" caption="Yes, they seriously give you your own grain to work with."][/caption]

Oh but wait, that is not all.  They do WINE too!

 

[caption id="attachment_1317" align="aligncenter" width="253" caption="So sweet!"][/caption]

I haven't done all the research, but I bet this sort of activity can be found in other states too.  Is this cool or what?  Have you ever tried brewing your own beer or making your own wine, and do you have enough confidence in your skills to serve it to others?