Drink
Philadelphians have been drinking a long time over at McGillin's Olde Ale House - since the days of Abraham Lincoln, to be exact. So it's only fitting that the venerable tavern in the 1300 block of Drury Street should celebrate its forthcoming 150th birthday with an anniversary beer called 1860 I.P.A.
Philadelphians have been drinking a long time over at McGillin's Olde Ale House - since the days of Abraham Lincoln, to be exact. So it's only fitting that the venerable tavern in the 1300 block of Drury Street should celebrate its forthcoming 150th birthday with an anniversary beer called 1860 I.P.A.
The coppery-amber brew comes courtesy of Stoudts in Adamstown (which also makes McGillin's house lager and ale), and it's notable for its quaffability. Unlike so many of today's high-alcohol, tongue-scouring hop monsters, this I.P.A. is refreshingly even-handed, with a measured bitterness and a citrusy, piney, floral note. Left unfiltered for that old-timey look, 1860 has a creamy, gingery feel on the finish that makes me want to take another gulp. I guess that's exactly why the Olde Ale house stayed in business so long to begin with.
- Craig LaBan
McGillin's 1860 I.P.A. is available for $4.25 a pint at McGillin's Olde Ale House, 1310 Drury St., 215-735-5562. Also available at several beer stores, including Fishtown Beverage (1511 Frankford Ave., 215-634-4883) where it costs $34.30 a case.