Drink fresh, drink local

By: Kathryn Eident, August 12, 2011

Beth Marcus - Did someone say free beer? Connoisseurs line up for a taste test and a chance to learn more about the fermented magic at the only microbrewery on Cape Cod.

When you pound back a frosty mug of beer on a hot summer day, have you ever wondered what went into making your tasty brew? A tour of Cape Cod Beer in Hyannis will answer all your questions—and more.

As the Cape’s only microbrewery, Cape Cod Beer serves up 19 varieties, ranging from their flagship, amber-colored Cape Cod Red ale to their zesty, seasonal summer brew, to their wintry, dark porter.

Located on Phinney’s Lane in Hyannis, the 45-minute tour takes you behind the scenes of their 5,000 square-foot operation. As one of the brewery's knowledgable employees fills you in on all the particulars of making beer, enjoy some samples—it’s all part of the free tour.

You’ll come away with conversational gems like: did you know beer is 95% water? Were you aware that the yeast added by expert brewers  works like Pac-Man, munching up sugar and converting it to alcohol. Make sure to get there a few minutes early though–the tours start right on time and space fills up quickly, especially in the summer.

Owners Todd and Beth Marcus don’t just brew these popular beers. Cape Cod Beer is certified green—and they go the extra mile by donating beer to local businesses and charities and holding events like the Last Gasp bikeride.

Peruse their well-stocked store and find everything from locally made candies and t-shirts to home-brewing supplies. Fans can find Cape Cod Beer on tap in more than 250 restaurants Cape-wide and in “growlers” (half-gallon glass jugs) at more than 150 package stores from Provincetown to Plymouth. The seven-year-old brewery distributed more than one million pints to thirsty beer-drinkers last year alone.

So if you’re eager to see how an award-winning beer is made (and taste one, too!), check out Cape Cod Beer. And don’t forget to pick up a growler of your favorite variety to take home!

If you go:

Cape Cod Beer, 1336 Phinney’s Lane, Hyannis

Free tours given:

Tuesdays at 11 AM

Saturdays at 1 PM