Editor's note: This is a series of food related interviews with industry professionals, writers, bloggers, executives, farmers and folks who have made a positive impact on the food cosmos.
I would like to introduce you to Adam Schmeichel. (pronounced - Sme-kzzzcheelesch) Adam is the Head Brewer at Adirondack Pub and Brewery in Lake George, NY and is a Culinary Institute of America graduate that decided his passion lived in the world of malted barley, wort and hops instead of a kitchen. Originally from Michigan (The Mitt), he now lives in Saratoga Springs, NY. I had the opportunity to spend a day with Adam at ADK brewery and chat with him about the world of beer culture, process and brewing.
Adam's brewing day generally starts out early in the morning to make sure his batches are completed by mid-day. It's a job that has to have your attention as every detail matters along the way.
As a fan of beer and beer making, I was always curious about how breweries choose their equipment. ADK produces their beers on a 15-barrel Bohemian copper brew house. The fermentation capacity is 60 barrels (1,860 gallons). Adam explained to me that they're often at peak capacity during high season. Adam and his team are very particular about their award winning craft-brewed beers and make no shortcuts when it comes to using the finest malt, hops, yeast and water. In 2010 Tap NY, ADK won the Brewers Cup as Best Brewer in the Hudson Valley region. (see below)
 |
| Adam (pre-beard) capturing the prize |
 |
| Yours truly chillin' with the Mash |
Unlike many brewers, Adam's approach is more of an artist, than a chemist. He told me that "I know each step of the process by feel and I don't have to monitor the batches with all the fancy gadgets that are available. It's a craft you learn with experience." He also stated that brewing beer is summed up in four words, "Hurry Up and Wait." One of Adam's pride beer is Dirty Blonde Ale. The Ale was recently named “3rd Best Craft Beer in the Hudson Valley” by TAP NY. Dirty Blonde Ale is an all-American wheat beer with a twist of grapefruit, making this brew light, refreshing and perfect for drinking in the summer. I've had "Many "O" Nights with a Dirty Blonde provided by Mr. Schmeichel. Adam also explained to me the his thoughts on the world of craft brewing and that it's still in its infant stages. He stated that grapes are to wine as barley and grains are to beer. "Most people think that hops are the influence to fine craft brewing, but it starts with great grains."
I had a great day with Adam, getting in his way and annoying him with my many questions around brewing. I think he's on the fast track to becoming a renown brewer with his use of flavors and creativity around great beer. As I've stated before, the commodity beer in this country has taken a big hit from Craft Brewers like Adam. People are realizing that Great Beer is better when produced by artisan brewers that are passionate about their product.
So, if you're ever up in the "Dirty" North, make sure you pick up one of Adam's fine craft brews.
 |
| The Hops of ADK |
