WeeBeers

After catching a great dance performance by the Alchemy Tap Project (ATP) at the Seattle Center, Wee found ourselves at Uptown Hophouse after stopping for Chinese food. This is a great place to wind down with a solid pint before heading home.

Scanning the tap list, I spotted a beer I hadn't had for a while from one of Oregon's finest: OMEGATEX DIPA by Fort George Brewing.

I know I can count on the Fort George process as they make some of our favorite beers, so seeing this massive 9% ABV double IPA on tap felt like a guaranteed win. Originally a classic from their vault, they brought OMEGATEX DIPA back for 2026, loaded up with a blend of Simcoe, Mosaic, Comet, Chinook, and Enigma hops.

A Pint of the Fort George OMEGATEX DIPA Please

When it comes to how the beer actually stacked up, it pours a clean, clear golden amber beneath a solid foamy white head. On the nose, you're hit with a big, classic Pacific Northwest aroma that leans heavily into resin, pine, and aggressive grapefruit pith. That translates directly into the flavor profile, which hits you with a massive wave of old-school bitterness, dank conifer, and citrus rind, all backed by a fairly heavy, sweet malt backbone. It is dense and slightly syrupy, completely hiding the big 9% ABV with a warming finish, though it definitely sits heavy on the palate as you drink it.

Now, don't get me wrong, this isn't a bad beer by any stretch. It’s well-crafted, smooth for its size, and packs exactly the kind of alpha-acid punch you expect from the Astoria crew. But honestly? It just didn't hit the high tier of my favorite Fort George releases. It might be the Mosaic (I'm not a big fan of that hop), because for me, this one just lacked the umph and had a waxy tang that clung on after swallowing that I just didn't enjoy. It was disappointing, but again, I'll chalk it up to the Mosaic in the blend which means anyone that is a fan of that hop is going to love this beer.

It was perfectly drinkable and I finished the pint, but it’s not something I'll be rushing to order again next time I see it. I ended up giving it 3 caps which means it's not terrible, but not great either.

Uptown Hophouse in Seattle

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Uptown Hophouse still delivered a great vibe to cap off the afternoon, even if the beer wasn't a total home run. Sometimes you get the gold, and sometimes you just get a reliable sipper.

If you’ve never packed up a gear bag and headed north for a midweek Bellingham craft beer and karaoke run, you are seriously missing out. On our recent trip, we joined the local talent to experience how the tap lists hold up when the microphones turn on.

Spoiler alert: Bellingham knows how to party on a random Tuesday, and the local singers are fantastic!

Tuesday Night with Pizza, Fire, Massive Mugs, and Big Vocals

Our first stop on Tuesday was at Fiamma Pizza for a late lunch/early dinner. Their pepperoni and pineapple pizza is fantastic and makes it worth stopping in ever few trips up north. I paired my portion with the Scotch Ale from Boundary Bay Brewery as a bit of an homage to their vacant former location on Railroad Avenue.

After Pizza, Wee walked over to Gruff Brewing and enjoyed a pints of the Trash Bird Hazy IPA and revisited their IPA 007 by the fire pits before heading over to the Schweinhaus Biergarten to sing some Karaoke. If you haven't been, this place is an absolute blast with a huge outdoor German beer hall energy right in the heart of downtown.

We grabbed a table, got our eyes on the taplist, and immediately ordered a round of Reuben’s Brews Hop Tropic in large, heavy glass mugs.

- The Beer: - Boundary Bay Scotch Ale is a solid 4.0 cap rating on Untappd for its rich, malty goodness. - Trash Bird and IPA 007, from Gruff Brewing both earning a respectable 3.75 caps from us. - But the undisputed king of the night was Reuben’s Brews Hop Tropic. It’s got that signature Reuben's clean, bright, tropical fruit profile that just punches you in the face in the best way possible. We logged it with a well-deserved 4.5 cap rating. - The Karaoke: Once the singing started, the energy went through the roof. The crowd here is incredibly supportive, but don't let the casual beer garden vibes fool you, there were some seriously great singers in the rotation. Belting out classics with a massive pint of PNW gold in hand? Perfection. https://youtu.be/_1gmM0C1jnw Four Wednesday Stops

Wednesday night required a bit of a strategy. We were excited to go back to The Royal (our standard Wednesday night Karaoke spot in Bellingham), but we had to do some work first and drove out to Darrington, WA to meet with a client for lunch where we ordered a pint of Wanderlust by Breakside Brewing along with burgers at Moe's Darrington.

Unwinding at Beach Cat Brewing South Paw in Bellingham https://youtu.be/GIn3C9UNY9c

Before we even made it into the heart of downtown, we had to stop by Beach Cat Brewing's South Paw location. We grabbed a spot out on the deck right along the river, which was the absolute perfect way to ease into the evening. There is nothing quite like listening to the water rush by while sipping a fresh pint. We opted for their Tortoiseshell Hazy IPA, a beautifully juicy, smooth pour that totally matched the laid-back, scenic vibe of the deck.

A Quick Scout of Craft Beer and Karaoke at Juxt Taphouse

Before heading to our main destination, we made a quick stop at Juxt Taphouse to check out their Wednesday karaoke setup. Juxt is known for having a massive, tech-forward tap wall, so you know we weren't leaving without a pour.

We went with the Ravenna Brewing Power Plant American IPA. Ravenna always delivers on the hop front, and Power Plant was no exception; crisp, resinous, and exactly the kind of palate-cleanser you need before hitting the stage. The karaoke vibe here was cozy and intimate, making it a great spot for a warm-up pint.

The Main Karaoke Event at The Royal

After Juxt, it was time to head over to The Royal for the real Wednesday night showdown.

If you want the classic, high-energy, stage-and-lights karaoke experience in Bellingham, this is the spot. The place was packed, the rotation was moving fast, and the talent was unreal. We saw everything from pitch-perfect pop ballads to full-on rock anthems that had the whole bar singing along.

To match the high-octane energy of the room, we stuck with a classic heavy hitter: Elysian Space Dust IPA. That familiar, sweet-and-boozy citrus punch is the ultimate liquid courage.

- The Beer: - Breakside Brewing Wanderlust IPA hits 4.25 caps on Untappd for me. - The Tortoiseshell Hazy IPA from Beach Cat Brewing was also a delicious 4.25 caps. - It went down a bit from there with the Ravenna Brewing Power Plant American IPA at 3.75 caps. - And the Space Dust from Elysian registering 4.00 caps while we were singing at The Royal. - The Karaoke: We always enjoy our time at The Royal on Wednesday nights. AJ is a fantastic host and the staff and regulars are a lot of fun. Wee Verdict for Bellingham Karaoke and Craft Beer

It was a fantastic trip to Bellingham. Between the awesome taplists, the top-tier singers, and the genuinely fun, welcoming vibe of the local crowds, Bellingham proved once again why it's one of our favorite craft beer and karaoke cities in the state.

If you're looking to shake up your midweek routine, grab some friends, map out your taprooms, and get ready to sing your heart out.

Bellingham is a beautiful place, especially when the sun is shining, there's a nice breeze blowing in off the Sound, and Juxt Taphouse is hosting a Karaoke night. Wednesday was one of those absolutely beautiful, blue-sky Pacific Northwest days that makes you want to stretch the evening out as long as possible. We were looking for the perfect spot to close out the night, and a little bird told us that Juxt Taphouse was the place to be for a Wednesday night vibe.

They weren’t lying.

Juxt Taphouse Hosts Karaoke Every Wednesday Night from 9-11pm in Bellingham, WA

We rolled in and found a fantastic crowd already bringing the energy. If you’ve done enough karaoke, you know the room can be a gamble, but Juxt Taphouse was packed with actual, genuine talent. Good singers, great energy, and an all-around fun atmosphere that made it impossible not to get into the spirit of things.

The biggest WeeBeers tip however, get there are 8:30 (or before) to get on the list, they only do Karaoke for 2 hours so getting on the list early is a must. After singing your song, you can head down the block to The Royal to finish out the night if you still want to sing some more, they generally run Karaoke on Wednesdays until about 1:30am.

Power Plant American IPA from Ravenna Brewing Features Simcoe Hops

Of course, a WeeBeers stop isn't complete without a proper pour. I scanned the lines and dialed in on Power Plant American IPA from the folks over at Ravenna Brewing.

This one is a dynamic brew that uses the Simcoe hop liberally and exclusively. It brings a massive burst of grapefruit, passionfruit and other citrus notes right out of the gate, backed by a solid resinous backbone that keeps it grounded. The 6.5% ABV makes this a solid craft beer that isn't going to wipe you out. It’s expertly crafted, light bodied, and shines with a pleasant bitterness that lingers throughout the dry finish. I clocked it at a very respectable 3.75 caps on Untappd (I apologize for checking in under the wrong Power Plant version however). It was exactly the kind of bold, flavorful glass needed to fuel a night of watching people crush it on the microphone.

Bellingham Karaoke Scene

Juxt Taphouse absolutely delivered the goods. Between the sunny day, the exceptional tap list, and the buzz in the room, it didn't take long for us to make a executive decision: this spot is officially being added into our regular Wednesday night karaoke rotation whenever we are in town.

If you find yourself in Bellingham mid-week and want a place that curates some of the best beer from the Pacific Northwest and pair it with some great late-night energy, we'll see you at Juxt Taphouse.

Until the next pint,

A good mid-day craft beer excursion is best when trying something I haven't had before, like Science Box by Single Hill Brewing. It's even better when paired with classic pub fare from a great local restaurant like Redmond’s Bar and Grill (RBG) in downtown Redmond. It was an easy decision to go with Science Box as it included the promise of modern hop chemistry, a beer I'd never checked in on Untappd, and a brewery we need to schedule time to visit in Yakima WA.

The RBG Laboratory Setup: Burger, Fries, and Haze

You can’t properly evaluate a Pacific Northwest hazy IPA on an empty stomach. To set the baseline for the experiment, I ordered a classic burger and a side of crispy fries and settled in to watch a bit of the Mariner's game, during which I caught a sasquatch roaming across the screen.

Single Hill Brewing is known for taking a science-first, hop-forward approach to their brewing while operating in the heart of the world’s hop capital. Science Box is a DDH (Double Dry Hopped) Hazy IPA clocking in at 7% ABV. This specific batch features Krush, Sabro, and Azacca hops.

On paper, that combination is formulated to deliver a massive explosion of tropical fruit, potent berries, and bright citrus.

The Experience of Science Box from Single Hill Brewing

When the pint arrived at the table, its beautiful, pillowy, opaque orange color with a solid white head made for an appealing presentation. Lifting the glass, I was hit with a wave of tropical fruit, a hint of coconut, ripe mango, and zesty citrus. The first sip brought the juicy tropical flavors home that paired nicely with the salty savory fries. While the initial fruit profile is fantastic, the finish carries a bit of a sharp, pithy hop burn that lingers a little too long on the back of the throat but overall, it is a well-executed Hazy IPA.

Wee Verdict of Science Box from Single Hill Brewing

There is no denying that Single Hill Brewing knows how to handle Yakima hops and is a brewery we want to visit in the future. The aroma and upfront fruit complexity of Science Box are absolutely top-tier. However, because that hop bite on the back end was just a little too aggressive for a casual lunch crusher, it only registered 3.25 caps on Untappd for me.

Science Box is a solid, respectable pint that cuts through the richness of a pub burger nicely, but a slightly smoother finish would have easily pushed it into the 4-cap category. If you love a hazy with a bit of a scientific kick and a distinct hop punch, definitely give this one a spin next time you see it on draft.

Until the next pint,

We’ve made our love for Bow, Washington’s Terramar Brewstillery plenty clear. Whether we're making the trek up Chuckanut Drive for the scenery or just craving their amazing pizza, they remain one of our absolute favorite stops for a consistently excellent lineup of beer, spirits, and food. And there is nothing better than grabbing a table outside in the spring sunshine right at the source, watching the birds interacting, and getting that craft beer fresh from the taps.

Naturally, on our latest visit, we had to see what was currently pouring, and we were happy to see some choices we hadn't tried yet, and that the 2026 Quadyssey had finally made it to the tap list.

Headwall Haze IPA from Terramar Brewstillery

First up, we ordered the Headwall Haze IPA. Terramar rotates the hop profile on this New England-style IPA, and the batch they had flowing hit exactly the marks you want from the style. It poured a beautiful, opaque pale gold with a nice, fluffy white head. On the nose and the palate, you get a massive burst of tropical fruit notes that trigger heavy mango, pineapple, and citrus zest memories, with just enough of a soft, pillowy texture to round it out. It skips the aggressive bitterness for a smooth, refreshing finish that goes perfectly with an Average Joe pizza. It’s a beautifully executed hazy that earned a very respectable 3.75 caps on Untappd.

The 2026 Space Quadyssey has been Released

But the real event of the afternoon was checking in on an old friend. Regular readers will remember our post from earlier this year when we drank our very last bottle of the 2025 Space Quadyssey, eagerly anticipating what the next chapter would bring. Well, the wait is officially over because we finally spotted the 2026 Space Quadyssey on the draft board.

Terramar Brewstillery shifted things up for this year's batch, dropping the ABV just slightly to a still-massive 10.2%. Now, a quick point of clarification for the beer nerds tracking along: the version they are pouring right now is the standard, unblended base Belgian-style Quadrupel, not the upcoming blended barrel-aged release.

Even without the wood aging, this beer is an absolute powerhouse straight from the tap. It pours a deep, rich mahogany with a complex aroma of dark fruits, plum, raisin, and that classic, spicy Belgian yeast character. The rich malt sweetness is perfectly balanced, making it incredibly smooth for a double-digit ABV craft beer. It’s an excellent execution of the style and landed a rock-solid 4.25 caps on Untappd from us.

Wee're Looking Forward to More Craft Beer from Terramar Brewstillery

If the base beer of the 2026 Space Quadyssey is already performing at a 4.25-cap level right from the source, it only raises our expectations for the rest of the year. We are officially on high alert and looking forward to making another trip back for the blended barrel-aged version dropping later this year.

Until next time, keep checking in those caps!

Wee love a good mid-day craft beer excursion, especially when it involves Scuttlebutt Brewing and heading a bit out of the usual routine to find some comfort food and reliable taps. On our last trip to Bellingham, Brady and I had to make a detour to Everett for a business meeting and once concluded, since we were in the neighborhood, we stopped in at Scuttlebutt Brewing.

Plopping down in a booth at Scuttlebutt Brewing always feels like returning to a familiar neighborhood staple. It’s got that classic, no-nonsense pub energy where you know exactly what you’re getting, and what you're getting is always satisfying.

The Food at Scuttlebutt Brewing

When you're hitting up a waterfront-adjacent brewery for lunch, it’s hard to resist the pull of the fryer. We both opted for the fish & chips, and it did not disappoint. The batter was perfectly crispy, the fish was flaky and hot, and it provided the absolute ideal food foundation for the pints we ordered.

The Craft Beer

Of course, we weren't just there for the food. The tap list had plenty to offer, and we each veered in completely opposite directions stylistically.

- For Me: Erebus Winter IPA - This is a heavier, darker take on an IPA that brings those cozy, cold-weather malts forward while keeping a solid hop bite. - It paired surprisingly well with the richness of the fish. A very respectable 3.5 caps on Untappd.

- For Brady: Tuatara Pilsner - This pilsner is clean, crisp, and refreshing. A textbook palate cleanser between bites of fried seafood. - Brady thoroughly enjoyed the bright, snappy profile of this one, matching my score with another steady 3.5 caps on Untappd.

The liver is evil and it must be punished

Every time we visit Scuttlebutt, I’m reminded of why one of my absolute favorite t-shirts lives in my closet. It’s a classic piece of brewery merch from their collection that sports a slogan I think every craft beer lover can appreciate.

It was a perfectly executed lunch break full of good conversation, nostalgic merch, and solid Washington craft beer. We will definitely be back the next time we are in the neighborhood.

Wee recently headed north to Bellingham and grabbed a couple of pints of Brake Lights DIPA at Stones Throw Brewery on a perfect sunny spring day. Bellingham is a town that just knows how to do craft beer right, and our recent trip reminded us exactly why we keep coming back.

Thanks to bad traffic on I-5, we went the scenic way up Chuckanut from Bow-Edison into Fairhaven and since we were right there, we pulled into Stones Throw Brewing. If you’ve never been, the vibe here is unmatched. It feels less like a commercial taproom and more like the ultimate backyard gathering of your closest, beer-loving friends.

The weather absolutely cooperated for this trip. The sun was out, cutting through that crisp spring air, so we grabbed a spot outside by a fire pit. It wasn't long before we struck up a conversation with a few local regulars. That’s the beauty of a spot like Stones Throw, the seating naturally invites you to chat, share stories, and just enjoy the community.

As for the liquid in the glass? We both opted for their Brake Lights Double IPA, and it was exactly what the afternoon called for.

Brake Lights DIPA from Stones Throw Brewery in Bellingham

- Style: Double IPA - Location: Stones Throw Brewery (Bellingham, WA) - Vibe: Patio-ready, campfire-warmed, big-hop goodness.

This isn't a beer that hides its identity. Pouring a beautiful, clear golden-amber, it hits you immediately with a robust aromatic wave of classic Pacific Northwest hops—think bright citrus, deep pine, and a hint of resinous dankness.

On the first sip, Brake Lights DIPA delivers exactly what you want from a proper double IPA. It balances a hefty, resinous hop bite with a sturdy, slightly sweet malt backbone that keeps the higher ABV from taking over the palate. It’s smooth, full-bodied, and carries a clean bitterness that lingers just long enough to make you look forward to the next sip. Sitting by the lively fire with the sunshine breaking through, this beer absolutely sang.

Wee Verdict

Between the exceptional execution of Brake Lights DIPA, the broad selection on tap, warmth of the fire pit, and the fantastic company of the regulars we met, this stop reminded us what the craft beer community is all about. Stones Throw Brewery remains an absolute must-visit whenever you find yourself in Bellingham.

I rated it 3.75 caps on Untappd!

Walking into the Kulshan Brewing Roosevelt (K2) location on Kentucky Street in Bellingham, you could immediately feel a palpable buzz in the air. The taproom was packed with forward-thinking folks for the Bellingham Sustainability Social Hour, and the energy was contagious. We found ourselves a picnic table out back with a heater and dove deep into the conversational weeds about the intersection of technology, innovation, and sustainability. Discussions on how to leverage modern tech and fresh, collaborative ideas to actually make the world a better place makes for an energizing get-together. And when you’re having conversations that big, you need a beer that can keep up. Wee ordered the Sunnyland IPA.

Named after one of Bellingham’s most vibrant neighborhoods, the Sunnyland IPA perfectly executes the classic Pacific Northwest style, but with a bright, modern twist.

The Sunnyland IPA by Kulshan Brewing

Sunnyland pours a brilliant, clear golden-amber beneath a tight, frothy white head with excellent retention. It is a visually flawless representation of a classic Pacific Northwest IPA.

First Impressions of the Sunnyland IPA

Before the first sip, the vibrant burst of citrus hops invokes memories of fresh grapefruit zest mixed with sweet tangerine. This is backed by a wonderful undertone of resinous pine and just a hint of tropical fruit. It’s clean, inviting, and incredibly fresh.

The first sip delivers on the aromatic promise. A wave of juicy citrus flavor followed by the classic PNW piney bitterness, balanced beautifully by a light, clean malt backbone that gives it structure without ever feeling heavy or sweet. The crisp, medium-light taste finishes dry with a lingering, pleasant bitterness that satisfies the IPA lover without going over the top. At 5.5% ABV, it hits that perfect sweet spot of being full-flavored but remarkably drinkable.

Wee Verdict of the Sunnyland IPA at Kulshan Brewing in Bellingham

The Sunnyland IPA doesn't need to rely on gimmicks; it’s just brilliant execution of high-quality ingredients and exceptional balance.

And if you ever find yourself at the Kulshan Brewing Roosevelt (K2) tasting room, surrounded by people brainstorming ways to build a better, more sustainable future through technology and community action, this beer is the perfect companion. It’s local, it’s crafted with care, and it brings people together.

The next time you're in Bellingham, do yourself a favor, order a pint of Sunnyland IPA, find a good conversation, and start mapping out how we're going to save the planet.

WeeBeers Cheers!

There’s an undeniable energy that takes over Beveridge Place Pub during Cask-O-Rama. It’s a West Seattle tradition that turns a standard pub session into an exploration of texture and depth. We dropped in to catch the tail end of the event, finding ourselves a spot with power to plug in our laptops and grind through some final business documents for the night.

Georgetown Brewing 18lb Armagnac Imperial Porter

You can’t just walk into a cask event and order something "easy". After sampling a few of the casks, we went straight for Georgetown Brewing 18lb Armagnac Imperial Porter for a full pour. This isn't just a craft beer; it’s a liquid velvet punch. And believe me, we were impressed by this near perfect porter with a massive malt profile and the sophisticated Armagnac influence.

Tasting Notes & Score for the 18lb Armagnac

Deep oak, dark fruit, and a finish that lingers like a good conversation. This is elite-level brewing. It’s rich, it’s complex, and it’s dangerous for how smooth it goes down.

We gave the 18lb Armagnac Imperial Porter by Georgetown Brewing an almost perfect 4.75 Caps on Untappd and will look for this one in the future as it is a "must have" craft beer for the Wee Savor list.

Beveridge Place Pub is a Great Place to Work and Play

Beveridge Place Pub has always had that perfect "get things done" vibe in the early evening. For the Cask-O-Rama, it was humming with that warm community energy that only a true neighborhood pub can provide. We had our laptops open, but our eyes kept drifting to the room around us, the wood accents, and the cozy atmosphere that makes this spot a place that feels like a warm study at home rather than a pub in West Seattle.

Locking In and Closing Out the Cask-O-Rama at Beveridge Place Pub

Brady and I were locked in, working to finish up the week and it hit me how nice it was to have the ability to do so in this place with the foosball table, game room, and the Mariner's on the TV in the background. It’s a mood we know well: the intersection of the professional hustle and the reward of a world-class pour. When you’re signing off on business documents, you want something substantial in your hand. The 18lb Armagnac from Georgetown Brewing was exactly the partner we needed for the task.

Georgetown Brewing continues to prove why they are local royalty. This porter is a triumph, bold enough to stand up to a long night of work, but nuanced enough to demand your full attention with every sip.

If you missed Cask-O-Rama this time around, it's okay, there is always something to try at the Beveridge Place Pub. It’s one of those essential West Seattle experiences that reminds you why we love this craft community so much. And once the documents are completed, you can sit back and enjoy a memorable porter and bask in a night of success.

We spent a few glorious hours Friday night at Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden to open Seattle Beer Week and after the dust had settled, the keg was killed, and our dreams of raffle glory and/or a free t-shirt were dashed; it was everything we hoped it would be, minus the part where they called one of our ticket numbers for the grand prize. If you weren’t there to help us "Kill the Keg" of Fast Fashion Family Style IPA, here is the post-game report on a night of high hopes and low-cost pints.

The Liquid Gold: Family Style IPA by Fast Fashion Brewing

First things first: the beer lived up to the hype. As the official beer of Seattle Beer Week 2026, the Fast Fashion Family Style IPA was the star of the show:

- The Profile: Massive tropical aromatics and a pillowy softness that made those $5 pints go down way too easily. - The Consensus: Even though the Fast Fashion name implies something fleeting, this IPA is going to be the benchmark for the rest of our SBW 2026 crawl.

The Raffle: So Many Tickets, So Little Luck

Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden definitely knows how to keep the energy high and deliver a good experience. Every pint of Family Style came with a ring of a yellow bell and a raffle ticket, and let’s just say our table looked like a CVS receipt by 8:00 PM. We had the numbers, we had the lucky charms, and we had the Family Style spirit.

The Result? Total heartbreak. We watched as some very lucky (and likely very hydrated) fellow beer lovers walked away with the Fast Fashion swag and SBW prizes. We didn't win a single thing, but hey, when the beer is that good and only five bucks, everyone is technically a winner, right? (That's what we’re telling ourselves, anyway.)

What’s Next at Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden for Seattle Beer Week?

Even though the Family Style keg has been kicked and the raffle prizes are gone, the Seattle Beer Week festivities at Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden aren't over.

If you’re looking to heal your raffle-induced wounds with more great beer and community vibes, don’t miss the rest of their lineup:

- The Garden Vibe: The Delridge beer garden is still the best place in West Seattle to soak up the SBW energy. - Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10th): They’re hosting Crafting with Mom with CraftLab Seattle. It’s the perfect pivot from Friday’s chaos to a more family-oriented Sunday Funday. - Birds & Beer (Thursday, May 14th): The Falconer and his bird friends will be at Ounces from 5:30 - 7:30 and you'll be able to hold a bird (probably not at the same time as your beer).

To the winners: Congratulations on the swag. To the rest of us: There’s always next year, and there’s always another pint.

I was craving something from my youth when I stopped in at Red Robin to have a Banzai Burger, and of course, there wasn't a lot of what I'd call a good beer selection to go with it. Well, fortunately, they did have a beer that’s been generating as much buzz as a bases-loaded bottom of the ninth. The Big Dumper Lager from Everett’s Scuttlebutt Brewing.

If you’re a Mariners baseball fan, you know the name. Cal "Big Dumper" Raleigh has become a folk hero behind the dish, and this collaboration with Scuttlebutt, a brewery Cal used to frequent during his AquaSox days, is a home run for the local scene.

The Brand and Red Robin

Wee've seen the branding at the grocery store and it is bold, unapologetic, and features that iconic trident-inspired energy. I immediately recognized the tap handle when glacing over at the bar at Red Robin and didn't hesitate to add it to my order. I believe this is the kind of beer you want in your hand while firing up the smoker or sitting in the bleachers at T-Mobile Park. And of course, Wee always love a beer that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers on the craft.

A Beer to Savor

If you're not in the mood for a single, double, or triple IPA (a rarity in our case). the Big Dumper Lager is a beer that’s sessionable enough for a long afternoon but has enough character to keep things interesting. I gave it 3 caps on Untappd which is a solid rating in my scorebook for a lager.

The Big Dumper hits the plate at a clean 4.5% ABV with 25 IBUs. It pours a crystal-clear straw gold with a light, frothy head. On the first sip, you get that classic, crisp lager snap. It’s got a mild malty backbone, but the real star here is the hop profile. Scuttlebutt used hops that provide a distinct light lime note.

It’s not a "lime beer" in the artificial, candy-sweet sense; it’s more of a bright, zesty citrus undertone that cuts through the malt and makes it incredibly delicious. It actually reminded me a bit of a high-end Mexican lager but with that distinct Washington craft touch.

The Wee Verdict for Scuttlebutt Big Dumper Lager

This beer is a "Utility King." It’s perfect for yard work, watching the game with your buddies, and when you just want a beer that tastes like a really good beer.

Now, we’ve seen some debate online about the lime intensity, but for us, it hits the sweet spot. It’s refreshing, nostalgic, and a great tribute to Seattle’s favorite catcher. If you’re in the Everett area, stop in at Scuttlebutt. If you see it on tap at a Red Robin or local pub, have a pint. Or if you spot it at your local grocery store, buy a six-pack before the M’s hit their next winning streak.

Thanks to Cal and the Scuttlebutt crew for this one!

- Brewery: Scuttlebutt Brewing Company (Everett, WA) - Beer: Big Dumper Lager - Style: American Lager - ABV: 4.5% - Pairs Well With: Ballpark franks, yard work, and 9th-inning walk-offs.

The hazy style often leads down a path of heavy, juice-bomb saturation, but every so often, you find a brewer like Seapine Brewing that shows you balance is king. This revelation happened after ordering a Rainbow Junior Pale Ale at Seapine where Wee were reminded that a refreshing balance can be had in a hop heavy world.

The Rainbow Junior is a craft beer that manages to capture the vibrant, soft texture of a hazy while keeping the drinkability dialed all the way up. At a time when many breweries are pushing the limits of ABV and density, this "junior" approach feels intentional and incredibly well-executed. It’s light on its feet but doesn’t skimp on the aromatic punch.

The experience in the glass is bright and approachable. It lands with a clean finish that makes it exceptionally easy to enjoy. For those who want the tropical complexity of the style without the palate fatigue, this is a standout choice. It earned a solid 4-cap rating from me on Untappd for being exactly what a modern pale ale should be: effortless and refreshing.

The Rainbow Junior Hazy - Summary: A high-utility hazy that scales down the intensity without losing the soul of the style. - Style: Hazy Pale Ale - Appearance: Pours a soft, glowing straw yellow with a persistent white head and that signature opaque haze. - Aroma: Immediate notes of citrus zest and subtle tropical fruit, think pineapple and a hint of lime leaf. - Palate: The bitterness is restrained, allowing the hop flavors to lead. - Finish: Crisp and dry with a lingering note of orange peel that cleanses the palate. Seapine Brewing in Seattle

When you're in Seattle, Wee highly recommend you visit the Ghostfish Brewing Company in the SoDo district. This is a gluten-free brewery and gastropub that defies the "traditional" brewing grain bill with a bright, industrial-cool taproom. And for anyone who has ever been skeptical of gluten-free beer, this place is the ultimate myth-buster. We stopped in before a Seattle Mariners game on Cinco de Mayo to run through some flights and see how their current lineup is holding up.

https://youtu.be/8gstMLHJN7U

Wee were pleasantly rewarded as Ghostfish continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with millet, buckwheat, and rice. Their taproom atmosphere was buzzing, and the kitchen was smelling incredible as we settled in for a proper session.

Ordering a Ghostfish Gluten-Free Flight and Food

When we arrived at Ghostfish, we were hungry and thirsty but the gluten-free beer list looked so good we had to order a flight of four 4oz tasters before wrapping up our pre-game brewery tour with a final pint. Brady and I ordered virtually the same flight and posted each to Untappd. One of the primary profiles I noticed across all of the tasters is the up-front flavor explosion followed by a quick drop off without an aftertaste. It was quite pleasant.

Meteor Shower Pale Lager (3.5 caps) We kicked things off with this easy-drinking lager. It’s clean, crisp, and provides exactly what you want from the style. It has a light floral note and a smooth finish that makes it a perfect palate cleanser before the heavier hitters.

Kickstep IPA (3.75 caps) This is a classic Pacific Northwest-style IPA. It brings a solid hop profile with those familiar pine and citrus notes. It’s well-balanced and doesn't lean too hard into the bitterness, making it a very reliable go-to for any hop head. I ended up following up the flight with a full pint of this one before we headed out to catch the Seattle Mariners game.

Grapefruit IPA (4 caps) The standout of the flight. This one is a total juice bomb in the best way possible. The grapefruit is bright and punchy, complementing the hops rather than masking them. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and easily earned the highest marks of the day. Braded ended up ordering a pint of the Grapefruit IPA for his final beer of the day prior to going to the M's game.

https://youtu.be/znfFJZ-HMcY

Parvenu Barrel-Aged Mixed-Culture Ale (2.75 caps) We moved into the more experimental territory with the Parvenu. While we always appreciate the ambition of a barrel-aged, mixed-culture projects, this one was a bit of a departure. It had a sharp complexity that didn't quite land with the same harmony as the IPAs, but it’s still worth a try if you’re looking for something outside the box.

Brady went a slightly different route with his flight, swapping out the Kick Step for the Watchstander Stout. If you’re a fan of dark roasted flavors, that stout really shows what gluten-free brewing can do. It is a rich, toasted, and smooth stout that holds up well in comparison to other stouts we have had.

He also went off the flight and ordered the Mesa Cerveza Mexican Lager to pair with his taco order. It's a beer that presents a beautiful clear gold and delivers the clean, crisp profile you’d expect from a traditional lager, but with a subtle complexity that keeps it interesting.

The Gluten-Free Beer and Food Pairings

You can’t visit Ghostfish without hitting the gluten-free menu. I opted for a cup of the chili, and it was, in a word, fantastic. It’s hearty, well-spiced, and the perfect companion for a flight of tasters to curb hunger before going to a stadium with outrageous food prices.

Brady, in recognition of Cinco de Mayo, paired his beers with a mix of Ghostfish tacos, which disappeared almost as fast as his beer did.

Wee Final Thoughts for a Gluten-Free Option in Seattle

Whether you’re living the gluten-free life by necessity or just curious about alternative grains, Wee recommend adding Ghostfish as a mandatory stop when exploring the Seattle beer scene as it is something you can't find anywhere else. The innovation happening in their fermenters is impressive, and the vibe in the taproom is always spot on.

Unfortunately, the Seattle Mariners lost to the Atlanta Braves (3-2), but thankfully, Wee won before the game got started by stopping in at Seapine and Ghostfish Breweries.

Hellbent Kölsch by Hellbent Brewing in Seattle presents a clear, golden straw color with a crisp, clean profile. On the palate, this brew delivers a delicate balance of subtle malt sweetness and a refined, dry finish. The mouthfeel is light and approachable, making it a highly drinkable option for those seeking a straightforward and refreshing experience.

There is a mild, floral hop presence that provides just enough bitterness to round out the grain character without overpowering the senses. It is an uncomplicated, reliable selection that stays true to its identity from the first sip to the last.

Rating: 3.25 / 5 on Untappd

The Hellbent Kölsch by Hellbent Brewing Seattle

Brewed with traditional Hallertau hops, the Hellbent Kölsch sits at a sessionable 5.3% ABV and 25 IBU. The brewers aimed for a "classic and traditional" approach, focusing on a bright, golden appearance and a mildly hoppy finish. It is designed to be a versatile, "go-with-everything" craft beer that prioritizes balance over intensity.

The Hellbent Brewing Company

Located in the Lake City neighborhood of Seattle, Hellbent Brewing Company was founded by a group of industry veterans (Jack Guinn, Chris Giles, and Randy Embernate) alongside award-winning head brewer Brian Young. Since opening its doors in 2015, the brewery has become a staple of the local community, known for its spacious, two-story taproom and "beer garden" atmosphere.

Hellbent Brewing’s philosophy centers on the idea that beer is a "libation of discussion" and a catalyst for camaraderie. They take pride in their technical consistency while maintaining a deep connection to their neighborhood, frequently supporting local charities and ensuring their space remains an inclusive hub for the diverse population of North Seattle.

The WeeBeers Take

At the end of the day, Hellbent Brewing delivers exactly what you’re looking for when you want a beer that doesn't demand your full attention but rewards it anyway. It’s consistent, clean, and reliable; the kind of pour that reminds you why the classics stay classic. It might not be the flashiest pint on the board, but it’s a solid addition to the journey.

Pike Place Market is famous for its hustle including the flying fish they show on every Seahawks broadcast, the flower stalls, and the steady stream of locals and tourists alike. But when the crowd gets a bit too thick and your energy starts to dip, there’s a perfect sanctuary to duck into: The Taproom at Pike Place.

Located on the street level of the Corner Market building, this spot has some serious brewing history baked into its walls. Longtime Seattle beer fans will recognize the space as the original location of Old Stove Brewing before they moved to their massive, view-heavy taproom on Western Avenue. The vibe here remains unpretentious, cozy, and centered entirely on great independent beer. We hadn't been back to this spot since Old Stove moved so it was nice to check it out again.

The Spread: Comfort on a Basket

Sometimes, you don’t need a complicated gastropub menu, you just need something quick so you can move on to the next venue. For this stop, we went straight for the ultimate refueling kit: Chicken strips and tater tots.

The strips were crispy and juicy, but the tots were perfectly salted and providing that essential crunch to power through the rest of our tour of Market area beer stops. It’s the kind of "no-frills, all-thrills" food that pairs perfectly with a cold pint.

Seattle Pours: From the Mountains to the Sound

The tap list at The Taproom is consistently curated, featuring some of the best breweries in the Pacific Northwest.

- Ruud Awakening IPA (Old Schoolhouse Brewery): Bringing a taste of Winthrop to the city, this is a quintessential West Coast IPA. I enjoyed it’s piney, citrusy flavor, and the clean, snappy bitterness that cut right through the richness of fried chicken. It’s easy to see why this is a multi-award winner. - Imperial Rye Stout (Future Primitive Brewing): Brady went dark. Future Primitive (out of White Center) knows their way around a big beer. This stout is thick and velvety, with the rye adding a spicy complexity to the notes of dark chocolate and roasted malt. Why Wee Recommend The Taproom at Pike Place

Whether you’re a local taking a break from errands or a visitor looking for an authentic taste of Washington’s craft beer scene, The Taproom hits the mark. You get the historic soul of the Market’s brewing roots combined with a fresh, rotating selection of the region’s finest.

If you find yourself wandering the streets of Belltown in Seattle and see a brick building marked by a small round sign reading "Just the Tap". Do yourself a favor and enter that dark almost secret portal. Just the Tap isn't your standard Seattle watering hole. It’s a labyrinth of neon, nostalgia, and, most importantly, an impressive wall of 24 self-serve taps.

The vibe here is beautifully chaotic. One minute you’re in a room filled with glowing paint and literal swings for seats, and the next you’re lost in a retro pinball arcade. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of everything except the ounce-counter on your pouring card. Whether you’re looking to play a round of "glow pong", play a board game, enjoy a unique family outing (Just the Tap is family friendly), or just want to hide away in a dark corner with a slice of pizza, this spot has a strange, magnetic energy that will bring a smile to your face.

The Self-Serve Freedom of Just the Tap in Seattle

The beauty of the self-serve model is the lack of commitment. You don't have to settle for a full pint of something you might not like. You can pour a two-ounce taster, decide it’s your new favorite thing, or move right along to the next handle. It turns a standard drink into a bit of an exploration. And if beer isn't your thing, they have a cocktail bar counter in front as well.

Worthy of the Pour: Elysian Brewing’s Dragonstooth Stout

Among the rotating cast of characters on the tap wall, I decided that since it felt a bit like being in an old medieval pub, a Dragonstooth Stout from Elysian Brewing felt like it fit with the vibe. This was not the first time I checked in this beer, but I had given it 3 caps in the past on Untappd so I knew it would be a solid choice.

- Pour: Dragonstooth by Elysian Brewing - Style: Imperial Oatmeal Stout - ABV: 8.1% - The Experience: This isn't a beer you rush. It pours a deep, midnight black with a thick, tan head that lingers. On the palate, it’s velvety and substantial, hitting you with rich notes of roasted malt, dark chocolate, and a hint of warm bread. The addition of rolled oats balances out the bite of the Magnum, Cascade, and Centennial hops.

It’s a bold, satisfying pour that holds its own against the neon lights and the clinking of pinball machines.

Wee Final Thoughts

On a warm, blue-sky afternoon, Seattle transforms, and naturally, Brady and I found ourselves wandering through Pike Place Market toward Cloudburst Brewing looking for a good craft beer. Cloudburst is on Western Ave on the north side of the market; a spot that feels quintessentially "Old Seattle" despite its modern craft pedigree.

If you haven’t been, the location is unbeatable for a pre- or post-market stroll. It’s tucked right near Pike Place, making it a convenient escape from the tourist throngs. The vibe, however, is strictly industrial. Set in what is essentially a loading dock/warehouse space, it’s not the kind of place where you’re going to sink into a leather armchair for three hours. It’s a "grab a pint, lean against a high-top, and move on" kind of establishment. Functional, gritty, and all about the liquid.

Untappd Check-ins https://youtu.be/l0RQ0GS2V48

This is Boring (Imperial Stout) Brady took the dark path with this one. For an Imperial Stout, it’s anything but "boring," offering up those heavy roasted notes you want when you're looking for something with some teeth. He enjoyed the depth but kept his expectations grounded. Rating: 3.75 Caps

Here We Go Again (IPA) I went with the IPA, hoping for that classic Cloudburst brightness to match the weather. Unfortunately, this batch didn't quite soar for me. It was serviceable, but in a city full of world-class IPAs, it felt a bit middle-of-the-road this time around. Rating: 3.00 Caps

Cloudburst Brewing at Pike Place in Seattle

It’s worth noting for any fellow beer chasers that they are closed on Monday and Tuesday, so plan your mid-week cravings accordingly. It’s a great high-energy spot to kick off an evening, but once that glass is empty, the loading dock vibe will have you looking for your next destination.

Location: 2116 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121