The Brew Review

We love our North Loop home. It’s a quaint hub for fine eateries, dive bars, coffee shops, breweries and much more. To celebrate the official beginning of patio season, we took off early on a Friday to sample delicious brews and ciders from our neck of the woods.

First Round: Number 12 Cider & Inbound Brew Co

Next up: Modist & Fulton

Number 12 Cider

New to the neighborhood, this cidery was a must on our list. As credible food (and beverage) experts, we have to know what’s out there! At Number 12 cider, our team of employees and friends tried a variety of ciders.

Here are our thoughts of the ciders we sampled:

• Black Market Cider: With semi dry notes of currant and a pleasing red berry color, Caroline describes this cider as, “Not too sweet, not too dry. For a cider, I can get on board!”
• Miss Morrissey: It’s light and subtle with an apple flavor. There’s a hint of carbonation and bitterness to it and overall it has a juicy appeal.
• Wickson: We get hints of white wine from the Wickson. It has subtle pineapple notes and tang.
• Trilogy: Not too sweet with a nice apple flavor. We dig it.
• Voyage: This will take you on a fruity flavor trip with a strong apple presence.
• Helix: This dry cider is light and refreshing, a good go-to.

When it comes to the atmosphere, Number 12 cider has it all: a good indoor ambiance with lots of seating, a large patio space, booth seating and a more private upstairs. It’s great for groups, dates and doggos alike with a contemporary vibe that is somehow industrious AND cozy.

Inbound Brew Co

Next came Inbound. Home to food trucks, live music and a true industrial vibe, it’s a classic and reliable Minnesota brewery.

Here’s what we thought of the brews:

• Hibiscus Saison: This saison is delectable and an excellent follow-up after visiting Number 12 cider. It has a sunset hue, great notes of hibiscus and is a smidge more bitter than an actual cider (which we like).
• Fruit of the Loop: The Fruit of the Loop is a good IPA packed with a citrus punch (as expected) with a bitter finish.
• Juicy Lucy IPA: “Delicious.” – Maddy
• Kolsch: This beer is SO smooth. We’d rank it up there with beers from across the pond in Germany.
• Cream ale: A beer you can’t go wrong with. It’s easy, light and has a subtle aftertaste.

Inbound is a great brewery for groups. It boasts an open concept with large tables, beautiful windows and cool lighting. On a warm day, you’ll notice the garage doors open for a nice breeze. Plus, it’s pup-friendly which is a win in our book.

No matter where you stop by for a drink, we always recommend being equipped with snacks or getting Von Hanson’s seasoned pretzels.