This week our beer series travels takes us to Pennsylvania and Victory Brewing Company. Ahead of Friday’s clash between the Philadelphia Union and D.C. United (7pm UNiMas) it made sense to find a beer that is emblematic of the city and the team: a bold beer with a refreshing sense of purpose. Entering Victory Brewing Company’s Headwaters Pale Ale.
Situated just 25 miles outside of Chester, PA and PPL Park Victory Brewing has become one of the top microbreweries in the region. Victory was founded 20 years ago by two life-long friends, Ron Barchet and Bill Covaleski, in what used to be an old Pepperidge Farm factory (note: no goldfish were harmed during the drinking of this beer).
The brewery itself is actually only part of the decor; their facility also includes a restaurant and a fully stocked bar. Although that is quite common among breweries in this day and age it is impressive considering that in 2014 they produced 125, 713 barrels!
The yield alone makes this operation impressive. But what sets them apart is the quality of the beer. Victory is unique in that use what is called flower hops in their beer which essentially means that their hops are fresh. Most companies and microbrewers what is called pelletized hops which are easier for transport and shipping. Although there is not a dramatic difference in flavor, nor does that denigrate those use pellets, it just gives them a better aroma.
That different aroma is apparent from the first taste of the Headwaters Pale Ale. Having had many Ales before there is a certain light hoppyness that one expects. But with the Headwaters Ale there is a bit of a citriusy flavor to it which is not something that you always find. In more than one way it is refreshing and makes it stand out among the Ales.
The other interesting thing about the Pale Ale is the color when it is poured into a glass. Given the citrus flavor one would expect it to have a very light yellow hue to it. But it is actually more of a golden brown which makes sense as you continue to drink it because you can taste more of the hops and the malt.
Given that the game will be on a Friday night this seems like the perfect beer to start your footballing weekend with. It has a great flavor, is not too strong (5.2% Alcohol By Volume,) and is one that you can have a few of without either getting too under the weather or too full.
DC United
Philadelphia Union
