Earthen Ales’ Beers To Go

Bottoms Up

By Craig Manning | March 21, 2020

Someday, hopefully soon, we’ll all be able to head back to our favorite breweries and enjoy sampler flights like the ones pictured. Until that day comes, though, our northern Michigan breweries are hustling to make their beers (and food) available for the quarantine era. Ever since Michigan bars and restaurants closed their doors to sit-down business on Monday, several local breweries — the folks at Traverse City’s Earthen Ales among them — have spent their days ramping up canning operations. Keep an eye on the Earthen Ales social media page — or call ahead — to check what the brewery is serving up in four-pack to-go cans. So far, options have included the Irish Amber Lager, the Otto Von Export (a “Dortmund-style” German lager), and the 2020 batch of Earthen’s Grindstone Imperial Stout. If we had to pick just one, we’d recommend the Grindstone —  a potent 10.9 percent ABV stout that perfectly balances its boozy character with satisfying roasty and chocolatey notes. Of course, if you’re in the mood for a full growler, you can choose from the entire Earthen Ales tap list. Just note that, at this time, Earthen is only able to fill new growlers; not old ones. Pick-up hours are 4pm–8pm weekdays, 2pm–6pm weekends. Find Earthen Ales at 1371 Gray Dr., Suite 200, in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, (231) 252-4270