Arch Rock is a very small brewery in Gold Beach, OR (actually just down the road, in Hunter Creek), which opened on January 25, 2013. Only two beers (a lager and a porter) were available when I visited, though apparently they have just added a pale ale. As they grow, they plan to add seasonals and others (IPA, triple, stout). So far they are making 15-barrel batches, and the brews are available at several local bars and restaurants, as well as in 32oz and 64oz growlers at the brewey. A small taproom fronts the brewery, but it didn’t appear to be in operation yet. I had a chance to talk briefly with the friendly owner, Larry, and the brewer, Charles. Charles worked at Uinta Brewing in Salt Lake City for five years and later at Grand Teton Brewing in Idaho.
Gold Beach Lager
Has a mild grassiness, and low hop nose. Hazy dull yellow color, with a creamy off-white head. The initial flavor is of slightly harsh grass and grain / mid palate is lightly sweet, with milled cereal notes / pleasant traces of bitterness in final. Thin-medium body. Actually, a bit heavy for a lager. Not bad at all, though.
State of Jefferson Porter
This one features a smooth chocolate aroma. It's pitch black, with translucent edges. A gentle coffee initial / chocolate notes come out in mid palate / very good balance in the finish. Medium body. Though it was served too cold, it's a pleasant, well-balanced porter.
I'll certainly stop in again next time I'm in the area to see how they are developing.
Next time I'm in Gold Beach...
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