Sudzers member Mike C recently visited Sante Adairus Rustic Ales in Capitola, and wrote the following to share his enthusiasm for the 1.5 year-new, 7 bbl brewery down the street from his home:
My visit was inspired from my fellow home brewer Mike at Aptos St. BBQ while I was grabbing a sandwich there (the place has an awesome lineup of 40+ taps).
Just 2 miles away from my home in Aptos, I followed my friend’s directions to a small industrial warehouse at the end of a road. Signage was minimal, but the crowd gave away their location at the back of the lot. The purpose of my visit was made quite clear once I stepped inside.
I sampled 5 different beers – here are my notes:
Anaïs – my first pour… a pale amber, dry, fruity, very drinkable saison. The nose carried a bit of apricot, clove and banana; there was a bit of spiciness that I first picked out as clove but now I’d say is from the spelt used. I could have more, but only ordered a 6 oz pour in order to try the next…
Little Quibble – this was the best lower alcohol beer I’ve had in a long time. With 4 grains – barley, rye, wheat and oats, the cereal character of this farmhouse ale is pronounced, giving it a very satisfying finish. 4.8% ABV, this is a perfect afternoon-in –the-sun type of beer.
Chavez – on to their robust porter, this beer has an awesome chocolate flavor that dominates without overwhelming, balanced with the crystal malt for body and sweetness. My favorite pour of the visit.
West Coast IPA – A purist’s commitment to a Columbus IPA as a dank hop beverage, with Citra in the dry hop to add some floral character to the nose.
Fumare – A smoked saison – had to try it because the guy behind the bar designed the recipe (the rest were Tim’s, the head brewmaster) – the smoke was distinct but still let the farmhouse aroma and spiciness come through. Dangerously drinkable at 7% ABV
OK, I’m hooked. I now have a 7 barrel brewery down the street from me.
Life is good! The place was busy but not overcrowded. I felt a bit bad for the small winery next door – but all good, something for my wife to taste (she likes wine but not beer) right next door!