Outside Columbia Kettle Works

CKW

Breweries, craft beer, , ,

Columbia, PA

We took a detour into Columbia, PA. Hundreds of years ago, this would have been the way to go home to Columbia, MD. This is hypothetical since Columbia, MD did not exist before 1967. We would have crossed the Susquehanna in a carriage using Wright’s Ferry and paying about 9 shillings, according to Wikipedia. This was way back in the early 1700s. Ferryman John Wright originally named the town Wright’s Ferry until changing it to Columbia in hopes of becoming the nation’s capital. Unfortunately for Mr. Wright, in 1790 the new U.S. Congress selected Harrisburg by one vote over Columbia.

Sorry, I had to look it up. Twenty-two states have places named Columbia, plus our nation’s capital, the District of Columbia. Apparently, Columbia is the historic/poetic name for the United States– Christopher Columbus + “ia” , Latin for place. In the 1730s, the 13 colonies were commonly referred to as “Columbia”.

For a town of about 10,000 people, Columbia has a lot to do. There’s the Turkey Hill Experience where you can make a day of eating and making ice cream. One end of the 13.5-mile Northwest  Lancaster River Trail starts near the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center. Also, you’ll have a good “time” at the National Watch and Clock Museum. And surprise, surprise, Columbia has a brewery – Columbia Kettle Works (CKW).

Columbia Kettle Works

Columbia Kettle Works  or CKW uses a 5-barrel brewing system. The beertender mentioned that if you want a CKW beer, you need to go to the brewery’s tasting room. They are still working on distribution.

Columbia Kettle Works brewing vessels

I found it worth the visit. The meat platter was terrific bar food. The beers were quite enjoyable. I ordered a flight of 4 interesting beers that came in a gear shaped board:

  • Kettleface – Piney bitter hops lingers throughout. This is an imperial red ale made in collaboration with St Boniface.
  • Melange Cuvee – Apple & wine nose. Wine & hope flavors, smooth dry & sweet finish. A French saison using 20% cayuga grape juice.
  • Convocation – This Belgian Dubbel had a honey nose; flavors of caramel, apple with hint of earthy hops, sweet finish. Very good!
  • Belgian Dark Strong – Complex flavors. Dark red/brown. Alcohol & cider nose. Alcohol, stone fruit, sweet wine, caramel flavors. Vanilla finish. Very interesting beer and delicious!

 

CKW Flight
CKW Flight

 

Cheers!

Warren