Strong Ale Tasting at RFD, Sunday
In recent years, strong, big beers were all the rage. Fads come and go, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still a place at the bar for a fine, bold brew.
“I don’t think it’s the flavor of the month anymore, but it still has a strong chorus of supporters,” said Bob Tupper, creator of the Hop Pocket Ale and Keller Pils and host of the Strong Ale Tasting at RFD. The tasting runs two nights: Sunday and Wednesday.
This annual event features a number of beers perfect to sip on a winter evening. However, there are no guidelines as to what “strong” is.
“The brewers choose the beer,” Tupper said. “I think they’re all at 7 percent or stronger. The whole point of this is to have a large range of beers.”
There are 10 different beers featured each night, and Tupper said the producers range from northern Maryland to central Virginia.
Featured on Sunday includes Heavy Seas, Capitol City, Vintage 50, Mad Fox and more. Wednesday has Lost Rhino, Port City and DuClaw, among others.
“That’s the first thing I try to do,” Tupper said. “I want to make sure everybody within 20 minutes of the District has a chance to participate. I’m a firm believer in local consumption.”
Tupper isn’t sure why there’s been an explosion of beer producers in the greater D.C. area, but thinks that today’s consumers have an expectation of variety.
The tasting features brewers or the brewery owners discussing their creations — no sales reps.
“We don’t let them on the stage,” Tupper said.
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Info: $40 for one night, $70 for both nights; lovethebeer.com/brickskellerbeertastings
Hard Rock Rising at the Hard Rock Cafe, Friday
As part of its global battle of the bands, with the ultimate winner invited to play Hyde Park in London, the Hard Rock Rising series hosts local acts the Mesh, Juniper Green and Gallons to Ounces. One hundred percent of door donations go to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
When: 7 p.m., Friday.
Info: $10 suggested donation; hardrock.com/DC.
Blake Shelton at the Patriot Center, Saturday
Country star and CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Blake Shelton has a broader audience thanks to his work on “The Voice.” See what made him a star in the first place as Shelton comes through town on his “Well Lit & Amplified” tour.
When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday.
Info: $29.75 to $54.75, patriotcenter.com.
Jeff Ross at the Fillmore, Saturday
Comedian Jeff Ross, best known for his roasts that skewer celebrities, performs at the Fillmore on Saturday as part of his “Jeff Ross Roasts America” tour. Prepare to laugh.
When: 8 p.m., Saturday.
Info: $25 to $35, fillmoresilverspring.com.
Saved By the ’90s presents Sisqo at Eden, Saturday
There are lots of ’90s parties tapping into a generation longing for the good ol’ days. Eden’s monthly event features Sisqo, he of “The Thong Song” fame. Yep, the good ol’ days. DJ Dynamix spins
When: 10 p.m., Saturday.
Info: $20 at the door, edendc.com.
