The New York Public Library (NYPL) has partnered with TALEA Beer Co., a brewery based in New York City, to recreate a historic beer recipe once crafted by George Washington. This recipe, originating from Washington’s 1757 military journal, offers visitors a chance to ‘taste history.’
TALEA Beer Co. co-founder, LeAnn Darland, expressed excitement about working with the library, considering it a significant opportunity for the brewery.
Washington’s Brew Origin
During the Seven Years’ War, Washington penned the recipe in a journal while overseeing the Virginia militia at Fort Loudon. The journal contains his daily military notes, including the beer recipe, written mostly in Washington’s own handwriting.
“Small beer,” according to the NYPL, refers to a beer with a low alcohol content. It was quick to brew and safer to drink due to its bacteria-killing brewing process.
Darland noted the straightforward nature of Washington’s recipe, akin to a novice home brewer’s process, with the primary ingredient being molasses.
Recipe Recreation Challenges
TALEA Beer Co. faced challenges in deciphering old terminology, such as ‘a quart of yeast.’ Modern molasses is more processed than what Washington used, adding a layer of complexity to the brewing process.
The company experimented with different sugars from Washington’s era to see how they affected fermentation and flavor.
Taste Testing and Collaboration
TALEA collaborated with the NYPL to conduct taste tests on the recreated brew. Darland highlighted the fun of working with the library’s team and ultimately choosing molasses as the brew’s base.
The contemporary take, Liberty Lager, is designed to be more palatable with increased hops to balance the sweetness.
Community and Patriotism
TALEA aims for their beers to unite people. Darland, a Navy veteran, hopes the patriotic brews encourage American values, fostering unity beyond political lines.
Both Liberty Lager and the small beer are available at TALEA’s taprooms, while NYPL plans to offer samples at America250 events.
George Washington’s Beer Recipe
Ingredients:
- A large Sifter full of Bran Hops
- 3 Gallons Molasses
- A quart of Yeast
Directions:
- Boil the hops for 3 hours, then strain into a cooler.
- Add 3 gallons of molasses to the hot beer.
- Let it sit until blood warm, then add yeast.
- If cold, cover with a blanket and ferment for 24 hours.
- Transfer to a cask, leaving the bung open until nearly finished.
- Bottle a week after brewing.