RBB’s Chubby Squirrel

Bottoms Up

By Anna Faller | Nov. 6, 2021

It’s officially hibernation season, and no Northerner’s hidey-hole can be considered adequately prepped for the coming winter without a good stock of games, snacks, and of course, beer. That’s where Right Brain Brewery comes in. Founded in 2007 by then-stylist and still-beer-buff, Russell Springsteen, RBB has been a pivotal part of Traverse City’s creative beer culture. Pie filling, pig bones, and even asparagus are all featured on their menu right now, but it’s their Chubby Squirrel amber ale that’s bringing some extra body to our cold-weather party. The ultimate multi-palette pleaser, this easy-drinking red stacks the mellow maltiness of vanilla and toffee with a bouquet of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Topped off with a twist of lemon peel for a delightfully dry finish, this seasonal brew pairs best with a crisp autumn evening. $6.25 per pint at RBB, 225 E. 16th Street.

By the way, the time is right to taste and stock up on local beers: From Nov. 12 to 19, Traverse City and Frankfort area brewers are hosting Brew Week, a self-guided tour of regional breweries, many of which are celebrating with discounts on beer and food, plus incentives for Beer Week participants — like a “My Hoppy Place” T-shirt, a beer-themed weekend in Traverse City that includes a $200 hotel voucher, and other beer-related gifts. For more information, visit www.traversecity.com/tcbw.