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Rating: 4.25
Location: Niles, IL
Founded: 2013
Last visited: September 2019
Cool, modern taproom with a long curved bar and a few outdoor tables, originally located in a strip mall on Golf Rd in Niles (they have since moved). According to their website, they are focused on making great beer with an emphasis on Belgian and French styles. Jerry Nelson is the Founder and Head Brewer. He started working on Une Année while working as an architect in fall of 2010, but started homebrewing back in 1995 while in the Marines stationed in California. In preparation for starting the brewery he attended the Siebel Institute. He is a Chicago native and lives in Chicago with his wife Tonia, and daughter/Assistant Brewer, Maya.
Hours: Mon 4-10 pm, Thu-Fri 2-10 pm, Sat 12-10 pm, Sun 12-8 pm.
24 beers on tap. Half are under the Hubbard’s Cave brand, American styles, primarily high ABV stouts and IPA’s.
BEER:
Less is More Saison (4.50) – Clean and smooth profile; hint of hop bitterness in aftertaste.
Belgian Tripel (3.50) – Sweet and malty Belgian ale; lacks the malty punch of a typical tripel; highly drinkable beer.
Le Suel XXVII American Wild Ale (4.75) – Contains pears and pomegranate; excellent fruit medley to balance the tartness; hop bitterness barely detectable; highly refreshing; fruit adjuncts enhance, not overpower.
Le Suel VII American Wild Ale with Mango (4.00) – Super tart ale; mango flavor is barely noticeable; the sour taste overwhelms the mango sweetness.
Le Suel XXII American Wild Ale with Black Currant (4.25) – Smooth and easy to drink; nice balance between tartness and black currant.
FOOD:
They offer a few snacks such as pretzels, guacamole and chips, and Brie and crackers.