By Stephanie Thara Metzinger
Located in an eclectic public market in the small city of Stanton, Bearded Tang Brewing is one of the most unassuming breweries in Orange County. Bearded Tang’s vast beer selection offers something for everyone – from a hop-forward pale ale to a juicy hazy and even a non-alcoholic crisp kolsch.
Every time I visit Bearded Tang, I am impressed at how many different types of beers are on tap. Even more astounding is that each beer delivers a top-notch flavor; you’ll be hard pressed to taste a beer that you didn’t like. Bearded Tang is unique not only in its beers, but the brewery has a mascot, “Fil,” a Blue Tang fish who adorns the walls of the brewery area and atop each of the brewery’s taps acting as Bearded Tang’s welcome crew.
The Beer
I visited Bearded Tang right before Christmas, and on this particular Tour De Fil, I indulged in the 4-taster flight. I selected a Lager, Pilsner, Hefeweizen and IPA and also did a half pour of the Pale Ale. Here’s a rundown of each, in order of my favorite to least favorite.
Carlos Danger [Mexican-Style Lager]
When you think of a Mexican beer, you probably think of Dos Equis or Corona, whose single note beer can only be spruced up by a lime. This is not that. The Carlos Danger is more of a mildly sweet blonde ale which has a subtle burst of new flavors at each sip. From the first sip to minutes after the last, your taste buds will be rejoiced with a set of rolling flavors that yield a creamy undertone. It’s no wonder it won the 2022 GABF Silver Medal, as it’s absolutely delicious.
Tank’d [West Coast IPA]
Tank’d is designated as the brewery’s flagship IPA with the “Westy” hops of Citra, Mosaic and Nectaron. Though it’s 7.2% ABV, you wouldn’t expect it as it’s a crushable IPA that has a nice balance between citrus and pine. If I had one gripe about Bearded Tang though, it would be that it only had one West Coast IPA on tap. I like other IPA options beyond Hazys and DIPAs.
The Original Hazy [German Hefeweizen]
I love myself a full-bodied Hef that hits hard with notes of banana and clove…and the OG Hazy is just that. This beer is light, yet heavy on the flavor, with the ideal amount of sweetness that German Hefs are typically known for.
Ausflippen [German Pilsner]
A traditional German-Style Pilsner that hits the mark if you are looking for a light, crisp, refreshing Pilsner.
Total Pailure [American Pale Ale]
A very hop-forward Pale Ale with a subtle malty vibe.
On my next visit (and yes, I will be returning many of times in the future), I would like to try the German Black Lager and Mexican Amber Lager. For non-beer lovers, the brewery also offers fun drinks such as a hard seltzer slushy, rose wine slushy as well as an ample seltzer, cider and wine selection.
The Ambiance
The unique thing about Bearded Tang is that it’s located right smack dab in the middle of Rodeo 39, an open market with dozens of unique food and dessert locations, niche shops, an arcade, full bar and ample seating. The brewery opened in September 2020 and is situated alongside an exceptional curation of 15 or so other artisanal food and drink vendors.
You can grab a beer, walk around the shops and soak up the alcohol with a tasty meal or small bites. From ramen or pizza to Mexican fusion or Hawaiian, you’ll find a perfect food pairing for your beer.
The Brewers
The masterminds behind Bearded Tang’s tasty selections are the two brewers: Jerrod Larsen and Jordan Friesen. Head Brewer Jerrod, a 13-year veteran of the Orange County brewing scene, is known for his creative approach and has designed dozens of unique brews over the years as well as classic style beers. Assistant Brewer Jordan is a bit greener, with only 5 years as a brewer, but his integral role in creating innovative beers has brought home medals for the brewery. Jerrod and Jordan are also joined by Kyle Coltrain, who is Bearded Tang’s cellarman and serves as a vital part of the brewing team.
Speaking of medals, Bearded Tang has racked up quite a few awards. Its award-winning beers include:
- Kristalweizen [German Hef]: Gold – World Beer Cup 2023; Silver – Great American Beer Festival 2022
- T-Minus 10° [Czech Pale Lager]: Silver – California Craft Brewers Cup 2023
- Carlos Danger [Mexican Lager]: Silver – Great American Beer Festival 2022
- Vlad the Barista [Imperial Coffee Stout]: Gold – Great American Beer Festival 2021
- Rugger Bugger [Irish Red Ale]: Silver – California Craft Brewers Cup 2021
Because of its ample beer selection and fun ambiance, Bearded Tang ranks among the top of my recommended breweries to visit while in Orange County.
Bearded Tang is located inside Rodeo 39 Public Market at 12885 Beach Blvd. #23, Stanton, CA 90680. Click here for Bearded Tang’s current tap selection.
Until next time, cheers!
— Stephanie
@stephzinger
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethara
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