...because Mark and Artsy told me to. Churchkey!

Jimmy here! I'm in DC for a couple of days, and have been lucky enough to land RIGHT DOWN THE STREET from Birch&Barley/Churchkey, two wonderful additions to the District gastropub/beer bar scene.  The beer menu is astonishing, including their own 'tasting paradigm' to help newbies find their way (and taste their way) through the craft beer scene.  Add to that a food menu that rises far above most bar fare, and you've got something very special.  This place is a true gem!

New Holland's HATTER ROYALE HOPQUILA.

Hey There folks!  Loud Guy and Communicator Guy in Michigan, checking out the craft industry.  Our newest snooping has led us to a store in Brighton, Michigan which stocks New Holland's Artisan Spirits line.  Their HATTER ROYALE HOPQUILA is a "fermented wash of 100% Barley, twice distilled, then steeped with Centennial hops."  So the QUILA moniker is a tad misleading - it's actually a hop-infused grain liquor.  Sort of a hopped White Dog.  And upon tasting, we can report that EVERY HopHead should have this in their home arsenal.  The hop character is not overwhelming but suffused throughout, and really raises the malt whiskey character to another level.  Wonderful stuff!  Stay tuned for further updates.  Cheers!