To commemorate Millstream Brewing Company’s 30th anniversary, LV’s August beer of the month is Millstream’s internationally acclaimed flagship beer — Schild Brau Amber.
Millstream has brewed Schild Brau Amber since the Amana-based brewery opened in 1985. The beer’s many awards include a gold medal in the Vienna-Style Lager category at the 2010 World Beer Cup.
Pour Schild Brau Amber into a favorite pint or pilsner glass. The color leans toward deep amber with tones of red and bronze. A finger-width of tight, creamy, bubble-spotted, lightly tinted head will dissipate evenly, leaving a short trail of foam on the side of the glass, along with an even skim and a ring around the edge. The Amber features scents of toasted malt and caramel as well as a little toffee and hints of cherry licorice. Mount Hood and Millennium hops offer floral and herbal aromas backed up by a mild spice.
The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, and the flavor mostly mirrors the smell. The malts provide flavors of caramel and toffee while the hops give the beer a light bitterness, a touch of spice, and floral and herbal qualities.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the brewery is hosting a party on Saturday, August 29 at 5 p.m. Millstream’s founders and current owners will be in attendance, and a special celebration beer—brewed by past and present Millstream brewers—will be available. Iowa City-based rock group Dogs on Skis will perform, and food will be provided. The annual Tour de Brew, which was rescheduled due to bad weather, will take place in the morning.
Serving Temperature: 45–50ºF.
Alcohol Content: 5.4 percent ABV.
Food Pairings: Millstream co-owner Teresa Albert recommends caramelized foods such as barbeque, grilled vegetables, charbroiled steak, pizza, sausages, baked ham, pork chops and smoked fish.
Where to Buy: Schild Brau Amber can be found at most area beer retailers. In recognition of the brewery’s anniversary, Albert said the beer will feature retro packing in August. It is also on tap at Lucky’s Market, the Hy-Vees on Waterfront and North Dodge, Shorts Burger and Shine, Quinton’s, Clinton Street Social Club, Mondo’s and Olive Garden. It is also available on tap and for purchase at the brewery (835 48th Avenue, Amana)
Price: $8 per six-pack.
This article was originally published in Little Village issue 181
