Another Memorable Year for the Westchester Homebrewers Organization

As we bid farewell to 2023, the WHO reflects on yet another amazing year filled with beer, camaraderie, and unforgettable events. We are thrilled to share the highlights of our last two gatherings, which epitomize the spirit of our club.

The November meeting elevated our tastebuds as Drew Tomasulo, the executive chef at Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, astounded us with a remarkable beer and food pairing experience. The evening commenced with a delectable Scotch Egg, carefully crafted with housemade sage sausage, served atop a bed of greens, and accompanied by a horseradish aioli and mustard vinaigrette. This gastronomic delight found its harmonious partner in Captain Lawrence’s dry and malt-forward black lager. The desert dish was no less decadant—praline cones filled with cannoli cream. Pure bliss. The combination of these sweet treats with Captain Lawrence’s Peach Crumble Brown Ale and the award-winning Golden Delicious, a Belgian Tripel aged in Apple brandy barrels, left us in awe. We are grateful to Chef Drew and Jack Riley, CLBC’s Hospitality Operations Manager, for providing commentary along the journey and for being ever-gracious hosts.

Our final event of the year, the Christmas/Holiday Party, was hosted by the warm-hearted Soul Brewing Company in Pleasantville, where owner Alan and Haley opened their doors to embrace our festivities. The culinary delights were provided by Barrels and BBQ, with Mike Colvin (who along with Fred, brewed this year’s Smackdown winning IPA) showcasing his expertise in smoking chicken, pork, and vegetables that left no participant leaving hungry. The combination of Soul Brewing’s diverse selection of craft brews and the succulent, smoky delights ensured the evening was a perfect way to celebrate a banner year for club engagement.

Amidst the joyous occasion, we also held the much-anticipated final invitational round of our year-long Last Brewer Standing challenge. Vlad, Scott, Mike K, and Cesar & Steven (as a team), presented exceptional brews, with each beer required to incorporate a unique spice. It was a close battle. Vlad came in with a S’mores Pastry Stout, Mike with a Holiday Spiced Ale, Scott with Saffron-infused Tripel, and Cesar & Steven with an Apple Pie Stout. The apple pie inspired brew was awarded the top scores for the night, making it a neck and neck finish. However, it came as no surprise that Vlad ultimately claimed the coveted title of our first-ever Last Brewer Standing. His consistent production of high-quality, innovative beers throughout the year solidified his well-deserved victory and admiration from his fellow brewers.

As we reflect on the events that have shaped our 2023 journey, we express our deepest gratitude to all the passionate individuals who have made the Westchester Homebrewers Organization a thriving community. Together, we have made this year an exceptional chapter in our shared love for homebrewing, gastronomy, and friendship. With anticipation, we embark on a new year, eagerly awaiting the exciting experiences and memories that lie ahead. Cheers to another remarkable year in 2024!