By Shannon Maria Jones

From an ordinary industrial park in Phoenixville, PA Steve Armstrong has been quietly turning out complex small-batch brews that are winning over a growing number of beer geeks. His one-man operation, Armstrong Ales, is a two barrel microbrewery that has brewed nearly 30 varieties of beer since opening its current location in August of 2013.

“I just want to make good beer that people enjoy,” he says. “I have a style for every taste.”

Humble and self-aware, the Chester County native is partial to brewing creative scotch ales and other malt-heavy styles. His Bold Thady Quill Irish Stout is a proper expression of his talents—light-bodied, sharp and robust in its roasted notes. The St. George’s English Brown ale showcases Armstrong’s originality, incorporating a robust ginger flavor into a classic base for an impeccable balance that lends a crisp finish.

Heritage styles aren’t the only thing that sets him apart. His citrusy Scrupulous Lupulus is a robust IPA that pairs powerful Galaxy hops with high-caliber flavor. Also try the funky, floral Guepe Colere Saison.

In just one year of operation, Armstrong Ales has been recognized for several outstanding achievements. In 2014, Armstrong Ales won the “Best of the Main Line – Critic’s Choice” award followed up shortly thereafter by a first place award for Thresher in the Rye Farmhouse Saison. Later in 2014, the brewery was voted “Best Local Brewery” in the Philadelphia Tri-State area.  Armstrong beers have been sold in well over a dozen establishments in the Montgomery and Chester county areas.

With the five taps rotating on a weekly (sometimes daily) basis, Armstrong’s tasting room provides a proper beer education. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions of Armstrong and the brewery staff.  Tasting flights, 32- and 64-ounce growler fills are available. Be sure to ask about the imaginative inspiration behind each name.

You can read more about Steve Armstrong’s impressive new beers in Main Line Today as well.

_______________

Shannon Maria Jones is co-founder of Dashing Rogue, LLC, “bringing back the dinner party” by providing customizable beer pairing dinners in your home. She hosts the weekly podcast, “Beer Mistress’s Microbrew Review” available on iTunes. Visit www.BeerMistress.com for her beer reviews, pairing tips, and recipes.

.