His
goofy grin, wisps of unmanaged curls, and curious nature might have you mistake
him for an absent minded professor.
While he may not hold a doctorate degree, he does profess a love for the
libation that is synonymous with Belgium, beer. If you’re looking to brush up on your local
beer knowledge, let me introduce you to an expert, Taylor
Brush.
To say Mr. Brush is passionate about Belgian beer is an understatement. He fondly remembers fishing with his dad on
the lakes in South Carolina and being introduced to Yuengling beer (Yuengling
& Sons is the oldest operating brewery in the US). As time progressed, his college years not only
educated his mind, but his palate as well. With a nostalgic grin and a slight southern
drawl he likes to reminisce about his early appreciation of Bass Ale while his
college friends were cradling the cheaper, more readily available Milwaukee’s Best. His taste buds matured over the years, but
one thing has remained constant, his passion in attempting to understand the
complexity and history in each beer.
It would take moving to Belgium for him
to truly begin to understand just how complex and unique Belgian beer can be. Crossing
an ocean not only gave him a new stamp on his passport, but he also gained an
introduction and stamp of approval from notable beer expert and author Tim Webb.
Mr. Webb has published numerous award
winning books on Belgian beer and was even asked one year to be an official
taster of Westvleteren. These
two creative minds teamed up a few years ago and created a documentary, “Beer
Amongst the Belgians”. If you love history
and beer, this is utopia! It provides insight
into the communities and individuals that have passed down centuries of time
honored traditions. Along the way of
discovering what makes Belgian beer unlike any other, it also weaves through
the humanity behind your honey, amber, or chocolate hued beverage. After viewing you’ll have a better
understanding of the Belgian people. Not
unlike a good Belgian beer, the documentary will have you salivating for more
(additional episodes are in the works!).
On three
occasions I’ve experienced a beer tasting hosted by Mr. Brush. Each tasting is tailored and unique. The host
does a nice job taking into consideration your tastes and interest. In addition
to sipping 10-12 different Belgian ales, you’re also given a personalized flier
that summarizes each of the beers on tap. This added touch is considerate while also
informative. If you’re looking for an
extra special evening, you can also hire Mr. Brush to pair beers with a three
course dinner prepared with beer from the tasting menu. He cooks everything at his home, then brings
and serves it to you and your guests. Last
year for my husband’s birthday I surprised him with both the meal and pairing. The
flavorful steamed clams, chicken waterzooi, and dark chocolate mousse still
linger. As if the beer tasting, food,
and Taylor’s passion for Belgian beer weren’t enough, he even provides and
brings home most of the dishes! 