Protect Ya Bottle Neck: The patient and wise folks behind Fortnight Brewing in North Carolina released a beer infused with the music of the Wu Tang Clan this week. The beer, dubbed Bring Da Ruckus, included a “yeast stressing” that consisted of blaring the seminal classic 36 Chambers on loop for two full weeks of fermentation. The loop had the unexpected side effect of driving the brewers nearly insane, but that’s art for you.
Drinking With Ina Garten: We know what you’re thinking, loyal readers: how does a beer column that delights in metal collaborations and just talked about Wu Tang Clan switch gears to The Barefoot Contessa? The answer is simple: if you’re not down with the semi-mythical serenity of the Contessa’s lifestyle and the aspirational love that exists between her and Jeffrey, then we’re not down with you. Wise up, then check out her take on frat parties, batch cocktails, and dear, sweet Jeffrey.
Your Life In Fractions: According to a study with over 2,000 participants, the average person reported being hungover one day a month. Healthspan, the helpful force behind the study, pointed out that this equates to two full years of your life spent hungover. Drinkers can view this one of two ways: two full years (or way more) spent struggling, or two full years (or way, way more) spent in pursuit of the perfect breakfast sandwich. Again, sometimes you have to suffer for art.
Cat Break: Breweries have long been known to keep cats around, but it’s not just for the fun, games, and furry stress relief. When they’re not napping, they work hard to keep beer ingredients safe from rodents and other pests that would otherwise ruin untold quantities of beer. If you’d like to thank a brewhouse cat, feel free to send treats to the brewery or whisper it to your local bodega cat.
Meet Your New Hero: Elvira Montes, 82, is set to complete her third beer mile in three years today, marking a new record for the young sport. One of just eight verified entries in the 69-and-older category, Montes is setting out to beat her previous record of 20:24 in the vigorous race. Her training regimen includes drinking Coors Light on the treadmill and a steady Scotch intake, providing the excellent quote and new life mantra, “Scotch is my medicine.”
Save Peter McManus: If you’re looking for weekend plans, consider supporting a local business in need. NYC institution and UCB haunt Peter McManus appeared to be facing closure after their building was purchased this week. The owners later announced that they would likely be able to stay, but anyone who’s lost a dive bar knows not to count on “likely.” Head downtown and help save a quality piece of drinking history.