We had a fantastic evening at Varga Bar in Philadelphia, with both Founders' Double Trouble and Russian River Brewing's Damnation on tap. The Double Trouble (above left) was amazingly piney, citrusy, hoppy, bitter, with a great bitter finish and not much of a burn (how do they do that at 9.4%?). The Damnation (above right, 7.75% ABV) was overall quite dry (burnt rubber quality?), medium body style, with some spice and herbs, banana, grapefruit/orange peel and a pleasant smooth finish. A very balanced beer.
It was beer heaven since the Founders and Russian River beers are not available for us in NY. The food is okay, but stop by for the beers.
BBQ Pulled Pork ($10): A good, messy sandwich with cheddar cheese, broccoli rabe and bistro fries to go with the variety of beers.
North Coast Brewing's Old Rasputin ($6, 9%): One of our personal favorites, and surprisingly the first time we've had Rasputin on tap. Still and will always be a winner.
Old Rasputin (left) and the last of the Founders Backwoods Bastard (right, one of our favorite beers by one of the best breweries in the U.S.). The Backwoods is not for newbies; it's a big beer that has been oak barrel aged. It was a great way to finish our trip to Varga Bar!
On tap that day were selections from Oskar Blues (we also had the Gordon on tap), Victory, Rogue, Lagunitas, Bell's and Dogfish Head. Don't forget your growler!
Varga Bar is located at 941 Spruce Street in Philadelphia, PA.
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