Missing Links Brewery, Butler, PA

A nice start for this craft brewery start-up.

Naturally, my interest was piqued by the sheer nature of the quirky name, the Missing Links Brewery. As one who loves to explore the craft breweries of Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio, I have an affinity for the craft beer experience which can only be gained by visiting the brewery and tap room. So, beyond the qualities of a local fresh beer, I expect interesting atmospheres and friendly service.

Missing Links definitely has a very friendly staff who are super attentive and know the beer. I was informed by the beer tender that the new facility was rather hastily created after a different location became unavailable shortly before their desired opening. Which makes perfect sense as to how and why the current location was quickly rehabbed and made functional, probably at a considerable expense. The result however appears more like a blank canvas for the young brewery to grow onto. Somewhat sterile and bland, the taproom has a real identity crisis. The name and cave man logo inspires an organic primitive motif. Yes, just call me Mr. Obvious.

My other obvious observation was the beer selection. Anyone who reads my reviews knows that I am not a fan of the “Beers of the Weird”. When did Pumpkin beer become a standard? Instead, when exploring, I like to start with a conventional style. This allows the opportunity to get a feel for the head brewer’s skills by comparing to a known reference. I should have started with their Lake Arthur IPA, but it was a little early in the afternoon to be drinking a 7.5 ABV. So, I scanned the menu, didn’t see any familiar faces, and closed my eyes. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe: Scottish Ale!

Scottish Ale

Just as described on the menu, “A cross between Scottish Export and Wee Heavy ales, this beer has deep malt flavors with hints of chocolate and caramel. It is smooth with the overall impression of a wee heavy without the high alcohol content typically associated with this style.”

This is a complex and well-made beer. With only a 5.1% ABV, its pleasant aroma and taste makes it more of fine beer than a dessert beer. Amazingly, the 23 IBU is so well blended, any hoppiness is evasive. The chocolate and caramel tones are very well tuned in and don’t steal the show. Overall: Very good!

Paradise Ale: 5.1% ABV - 12 IBU

Definitely not a shanty, this description is very accurate, “A light and refreshing ale brewed using Belgian pilsner and wheat malts. Paradise seeds and other spices combine with sweet orange peel for a balanced spice and fruit profile that doesn't overpower the light malt and hop flavors.”

This one caught my eye because of its slight haze and extreme pale color. Without consulting the beer menu, I expected East Coast IPA qualities. Nope. (By the way, there are local brewers who are making very good tasting clear IPAs without cold filtering or pasteurization.) It’s a Saison and definitely made me think of summer. Overall: Good

Dinoweizen Hefeweizen: 4.3% ABV - 11 IB

U

Sure, it’s light, it’s drinkable, but? “A light and refreshing beer appropriate for year-round consumption. Primary flavors include banana and clove with a moderate wheat aroma and light citrus flavor also present. Hefeweizen is best when it is young and fresh, and you can't get it any fresher than at the brewery.”

It’s really just another session style beer that is going to appeal to a select few. I really expected more Weissbier qualities to give it that wheaty-yeasty base that you typically get with a Hefeweizen. Don’t get me wrong, it’s close, but maybe just a little watered down version. Overall: OK

The Missing Links Brewery is definitely an up-and-comer to visit and watch. Their initial offerings already show promise, including some beers that are spot-on. I look forward to seeing them develop some ambiance and enhance the experience. I also am impressed that they have established a pricing standard ($5 a pint) that doesn’t make you want to walk away after a bland beer.

One other big draw for those of you who drag (often kicking and screaming) a wine drinker with you, Missing Links Brewery carries the Deer Creek Winery products.  They have a Fryburg White Niagara style which is by far the best wine we have encountered during our brewery adventures.  Stay tuned because I'm going write about this, as we have had numerous laborious conversations about this topic.

Great start! I will definitely return.