Boston Beer Hunter

Name: Oak & Iron Brewing

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Location: Andover, MA 

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History: At one month of age, Oak & Iron is one of the newest additions to the Massachusetts craft beer scene and the first such establishment to open in the town of Andover.  Located in a historic mill building next to the Shawsheen River, this beautiful space is warm, friendly, and authentic.  

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Recommended Brews: During my visit, I enjoyed a flight featuring four of Oak & Iron's six current offerings, and was fortunate enough to spend some time chatting with co-owner and head brewer, Jim Cass. Jim's an incredibly friendly, down to earth person who was happy to share his story and passion for beer with an enthusiastic stranger like myself. The beer at Oak & Iron is well-balanced and approachable for all range of palettes.  

 

The highlights from visit Numero Uno were the Red Spring Ale, a smooth American Amber, and the Irish Outlaw, which is a creamier version of Red Spring aged in Woodford Reserve barrels (made in honor of the Kentucky Derby, and I hope it comes back). Reds are an overlooked and under-brewed specimen in the craft beer community, and Oak & Iron does them quite well.  

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While you're in the area: Most people identify Andover as the home of the esteemed Phillips Academy.  In addition to this picturesque campus, Andover is home to several lovely walks, including the Ward Reservation, a 700 acre sprawl that it shares with bordering North Andover, and Harold Parker State Forest. 

 

Elm Square Oyster House has a great beer list and fresh seafood dishes, and Grassfield's serves up a buttery baked lobster pie that's worth the wait on a Saturday night. You're also just under 20 minutes from the famous Richardson's Ice Cream.  Batting cages, driving range, mini golf, ice cream.  Hello, summer.  We've missed you.

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Learn more here: http://www.oakandironbrewing.com/