June, 2007 Celebrator Beer News

“Belgian Beer Me!”
Class is in Saison, er, Session in Seattle
By Don Scheidt

"Stu Stuart keeps himself busy with a career as a stand-up comic, as claimed on his web site, “the funniest show on Mackinac Island - never mind, it’s the only one.” So, when not on stage, what else keeps this comic busy? Stuart avidly pursues his passion as a home brewer and beer enthusiast, and he also spreads this enthusiasm by holding classes on one of his favorite subjects: Belgian Beer. Stuart exchanges his stand-up comic persona for that of an impassioned educator, and when this class is in session, perfect attendance is amply rewarded.

Stuart’s “Belgian Beer Me!” course is presented as part of the Seattle-based
University of Washington’s Experimental College program, and in two recent sessions on April 15 and April 18, 2007, at the Beveridge Place Pub and Brouwer’s Café, respectively, Stuart guided enthusiastic and thirsty through an overview of the Belgian beer experience, accompanied by a well-chosen selection that included Hoegaarden Wit, Orval Trappist ale, Lindemans Kriek, Abbaye des Rocs Blanche Double, St. Bernardus Triple, Caracole Amber, Gulden Draak strong dark ale, and Piraat strong blonde ale.

Along with descriptions and discussions on the beers and brewing styles of Belgium,
Stuart, accompanied by Paul Wasik of Washington state’s Anacortes Brewing, also discussed beer tasting and beer travel for potential Belgium-bound visitors, covering everything from getting there to courtesy, protocols, and respect for the traditions of Belgian cafes. As the range of Belgian beers were introduced to class attendees, Stuart and Wasik discussed the
techniques and history behind the beers, including Trappist and abbey ales, Belgian wheat beers, lambics, and other specialties. While whetting his students’ Belgian beer thirst for more, Stuart also announced that he would be organizing a visit to Belgium’s Zythos beer festival in 2008.

Stuart plans more sessions of the well-attended “Belgian Beer Me!” course this fall, through the University of Washington’s Experimental College program. Check www.belgianbeerme.com and www.exco.org for more information on beer tours of Belgium and Belgian beer tastings later this year."