Sure, Josh Bringman loves beer. But what the owner of the BrickOven BrewPub enjoys even more is the science behind it. “I liked how changing one little thing could make a completely different beer or using a different wheat in the exact same beer could make something completely different,” he says. “If you ferment it 2 or 3 degrees warmer or cooler, you can really bring out the dryness or more fruitiness. It’s a never-ending science experiment.” Since opening his Akron spot in 2014, Bringman has been measuring, tinkering and testing with a one-barrel, direct fire system that produces up to 30 gallons at a time. We’re happy to be his test subjects for the four flagship beers, which includes a smooth oatmeal stout ($4.50 for 16 ounces) and a hoppy, citrusy IPA ($5.50 for 16 ounces), and one-offs such as the Peanut Butter and Jelly Porter ($6.50 for 16 ounces). Our Pick: An alternative for those who aren’t dark beer fans, the cream ale ($3.75 per 16 ounces) offers a touch of sweetness with a Champagne look and taste.
From hoppy IPAs to light, fruity brews, Cleveland's beer scene is a cornucopia of flavors, taste and refreshment. Here's everything you need to know to maximize your next trip to your favorite brewery.