Shuffling through the winter wonderland, you gaze at the shimmering LED lights dangling overhead, the toy train chugging along a figure-8 track, the candy canes and lollipops bordering the path. The line zig-zags forward, and you hear a voice boom in the distance.It’s him.Your palms start to sweat as you recite your Christmas list over and over in your head: Gamecube, 64-pack of crayons, wait — what was after crayons?The line advances. You catch a glimpse of him through the doorway: wide-set on his throne, a rosy blush in his cheeks, a glint in his eye.You’re ushered through the door and up to a microphone, but, before you can say anything, he greets you by name and asks what you’d like for Christmas.Your parent nudges you, but you’re frozen, mouth agape, wondering how he knew your name. Another nudge and you robotically mumble your Christmas list into the microphone. He thanks you, wishes you a Merry Christmas, and suddenly you’re back at Devitt’s Nursery and Supply.This is the magic of Eggbert.
Try as we might, the magic of Eggbert simply can’t be explained; only experienced. He is but another icon unique to the Hudson Valley, and that’s why Newburgh Brewing Company has crafted and named their latest beer in his honor.According to President and Chief Operating Officer, Paul Halayko, the idea originated in winter 2016 when the brewery sold pint glasses with Eggbert’s face on them. Folks who purchased a glass also received $1 off beers throughout December.Thanks to a new canning machine (or perhaps a Christmas miracle), the idea evolved into an entirely new brew in December 2017.This month, Angry Eggbert IPA returns to Newburgh Brewing Company’s taproom. Brewed with spruce needles that the staff trimmed themselves, Angry Eggbert is a departure from conventional winter beers like stouts and porters. Halayko describes it as light-bodied and balanced with touches of citrus and pine.He also says supplies are limited; the beer is expected to sell out faster than you can say “Santa Claus.”Commemorate by the glass or grab a four-pack for $15. Either way, be sure to mark your calendar for Friday, November 16, the day of Eggbert’s official 2018 release. It also happens to mark the return of Eggbert After Dark, the magical evening when Eggbert visits the brewery to chat with the adults — without any child supervision.Due to popular demand, part of the Eggbert supply will be reserved for a third and final Eggbert After Dark event on December 28. If you don’t get a chance to sample the beer in November, this will be your last chance to do so before it disappears for good (for the year at least).
With all of this demand heading into the holidays, it’s easy to forget the most important question: How does Eggbert feel about all of this?“Eggcited,” he says.Did you try the beer inspired by the egg, the myth, the legend? Let us know what you thought about it in the comments or send us an email to edit@hvmag.com.
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