Peaks and Pints:

Discovering Kolsch 151 in the Blue Ridge

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when the drink in your glass matches the view on the horizon. On my recent trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains, I found myself at Blue Mountain Brewery with a pint of their flagship Kolsch 151.

To be honest? I didn’t know what I was getting into.

Score: 6.7

Location: Afton, VA

ABV: 5.0%

The Mystery of the Kolsch

Before this trip, I’d never actually had a Kolsch. If you’re like me and aren't a "beer snob," the style can be a bit confusing. It’s a bit of a hybrid: fermented with ale yeast but finished cold like a lager.

I wasn't sure if I was in for something heavy and bitter or thin and watery. What I got was a pleasant surprise.

The Tasting Experience

Kolsch 151 pours a beautiful, clear gold almost like mountain sunshine. Here’s the breakdown of the experience:

• The Vibe: Crisp, clean, and incredibly refreshing.

• The Flavor: It doesn't hit you over the head with hops. It has a subtle, bready sweetness and a very dry finish.

• The "Drinkability": At 5% ABV, it’s the definition of an easy drinker. It’s the kind of beer that feels "honest" it’s not trying to hide behind crazy fruit flavors or intense bitterness.

The Verdict

Is this my new "everyday" beer that I’d stock in the fridge at home year-round? Probably not. I tend to move around different styles too much for that.

However, as a local experience, it was perfect. Drinking a beer brewed with water from the very mountains I was looking at made the whole afternoon feel right. It’s a solid, well-crafted brew that serves as the perfect "welcome to the mountains" glass.

If you find yourself near Afton, Virginia, grab a seat on the patio and give it a shot. Even if you don't know what to expect, you'll likely leave a fan.