Beer Guide: Willoughby Brewing Co.

Rich, peanut buttery and full of buzzy coffee flavors, Willoughby Brewing Co.’s Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter ($5 for 16 ounces) has amassed a cult following for its top-secret recipe that uses fresh roasted local coffee, dehydrated peanut butter and cocoa nibs. Not a fan of porters? You will be after just one sip — we promise. As the oldest in Lake County, this 19-year-old brewery continues to stay current among a sea of newbies thanks to brewmaster Rick Seibt who isn’t afraid to experiment with styles, such as saisons and Kolschs while still honoring those classics that keeps Willoughby Brewing Co. at the top of many beer head’s lists. An upcoming remodel of its early 1900s building and search for a production facility is further proof that this East Side hot spot is here to stay. Our Pick: The limited-edition Nutsmasher ($6 for 10 ounces) is the uncle to the Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter with a dark, nutty flavor. It’s so popular that people purchase tickets just to stand in line for a chance to buy this coveted brew. 4057 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-975-0202, 
willoughbybrewing.com