A tasty tour of Sierra Nevada Brewery

May 31st, 2011 by Mary Ellen Brewington

Sierra Nevada Brewery is the Walt Disney World for brew junkies. Several weeks ago On Tap encouraged readers to take a “brew-cation.” A few of us from Cherokee Distributing Company took the idea across the country to visit our friends in Chico, California.

As we pulled into the parking lot covered with solar panels – Sierra Nevada creates 85% of their own energy – we noticed the organic gardens and the nose-tickling scent of fresh beer brewing. Inside and out, floor to ceiling, the brewery facilities are spotless. The love of brewing is in every detail down to handmade wall tiles depicting the history of beer making.

Our tour began in the Brew House where two copper brew kettles made in Germany serve as the focal point. Sierra Nevada only uses the finest barley malt, hops, yeast and pure water.

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Refreshing beverages come in recyclable containers

April 21st, 2011 by Mary Ellen Brewington

We love to share our favorite beverages with you here at On Tap. We hope that we’ve inspired you to try a new beer or serve a festive beverage at your last social gathering.

But, on Earth Day, we’re wondering: Once the drinks have been drunk, what are you doing with those cans and bottles? Read the rest of this entry »

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Tailgating tips and traditions

August 31st, 2010 by Mary Ellen Brewington

Living in the heart of Big Orange Country, Cherokee Distributing Company is familiar with tailgates. We’re fond of the festivity that brings together friends and family, food and flowing beverages, fans and fun.

If you also reside in East Tennessee, it’s likely that you’re a Vol fan. But, we’ve got plenty of alumni from around the SEC and other conferences, as well as diehard NFL fans. Whichever team you cheer for in the fall, a tailgate party is a great way to celebrate the season with loved ones.

Here are Cherokee’s top tips for a terrific tailgate:

1. Claim your spot. Tailgating started as a way for fans to pre-party and eat in the area surrounding the game site before going in to the stadium. Whether you’re nestled close to Neyland Stadium or parked on campus at an away game, that’s tailgating at its best. Just be sure to plan ahead as many desirable tailgating spots are claimed the night before or in the early morning. Be prepared to pay cash for parking and car pool so you aren’t limited by finding space for extra vehicles.

If you don’t have tickets to the game or can’t get on location that day, don’t toss away your tailgate. Tailgating has come to represent game day celebration, no matter whether you’re at a car, a bar or a house. Gather with friends at a local pub or restaurant to watch the game on TV, or host a tailgating party at your home.

2. Bring the refreshments. Pack coolers with ice, snacks and beverages ahead of time. Once you snag your prime spot, you may not be in walking distance of a place to grab extra items. In the southeast, football season starts when it’s still hot out, so be sure to pack water and hydrating drinks in addition to your favorite brews – and you’ll need plenty of ice to keep them cool.

If you’re the host or hostess at a house party, check out our ‘On Tap’ post on planning how much beer to buy. You may also want to try the new Miller and Coors mini-kegs – they’re economical and fit in your fridge.

4. Pack the essentials. There are a few things you don’t want to forget that will help make your tailgate a success. Make a list and check it before you head out the door to fight the game day traffic:

cherokee_tailgating Living in the heart of Big Orange Country, Cherokee Distributing Company is familiar with tailgates. We’re fond of the festivity that brings together friends and family, food and flowing beverages, fans and fun. Read the rest of this entry »

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Tips for a refreshing East Tennessee summer

June 22nd, 2010 by Mary Ellen Brewington

BM_Summer_12ozB_401 Summer is here, and East Tennessee is heating up. With recent daily temperatures in the 90’s, it’s a great time of year to enjoy a refreshing cold beverage.

With some seasonal tips from Cherokee, you’ll be ready to beat the heat: Read the rest of this entry »

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Party Planning 101: How much beer should we get?

May 13th, 2010 by Mary Ellen Brewington

East Tennessee hospitality is known throughout the country. We gather together for any occasion: wedding celebrations, sporting events or just to hang out on the patio enjoying our fine summer nights. There is always a reason to throw a party!

The folks at Cherokee get many calls from friends saying, “We’re hosting an event. How much beer do we need?” The math is easy: Plan on two to three beers per beer drinker. The next question a party planner should consider is, “What else am I serving?” If you are serving wine and it’s a mixed crowd of males and females, typically half of the guests will drink wine and half will drink beer. Read the rest of this entry »

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Blood, sweat and tears

April 26th, 2010 by Mary Ellen Brewington

Volunteers hard at work hammering.

MillerCoors and St. John’s Cathedral partner to build a dream home with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity

Blitz Day, Feb. 27, was magical as over 70 volunteers from Cherokee Distributing Company, St. John’s Cathedral, MillerCoors and Knoxville Habitat for Humanity (KHFH) joined together to build a new home. It’s amazing how in just one day a structure can be raised from slab foundation to exterior walls and gables. But, there is still more work to be done. Read the rest of this entry »

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What does moderation mean for you?

January 27th, 2010 by Mary Ellen Brewington

Drinking alcohol affects everyone differently. Men typically can handle more alcohol than women. Age and weight are also factors.

Moderate drinking is a personal level of consumption at which you don’t pose a risk to yourself or others. And, you don’t embarrass yourself by waking up the next day questioning, “What did I say while dancing on top of that bar table?”

Enjoying adult beverages in moderation can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Studies have shown that beer is heart-healthy, decreasing a man’s risk of a heart attack by as much as 35 percent. Research also shows that moderate beer drinking can increase HDL (good cholesterol) and may help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

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