8 Malty Nights

Lompoc Brewing is pleased to release Portland’s first beer brewed for Hanukkah – “8 Malty Nights” will be released on the first night of Hanukkah, this Friday, Dec. 11, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Lompoc Sidebar, 3901 N Williams.

8 Malty Nights is a rich, dark ale made with chocolate malts and flaked rye. The Chocolate Rye was brewed by Lompoc brewer Sam Orlansky, who is Jewish and grew up in San Diego with childhood friend Bradley Greenstein. Sam became a brewer; Bradley became a Rabbi with the Congregation Neveh Shalom in Portland. Rabbi Greenstein was present at the brewery November 10 to bless the mash and join the brewers in a toast with Manischewitz.

Though not technically certified, 8 Malty Nights is considered kosher in that is has undergone the blessing and supervision by a Rabbi. Most beer is generally considered Kosher without special certification.

“Drinks such as wine and beer have always represented our partnership with the divine,” Greenstein said at the blessing. “God gives us hops and grapes and grain and we make something even more beautiful from them.”

The release party will also feature complimentary Jewish appetizers, including Sweet Noodle Kugel, Lookoumades (fried honey puffs) and Potato Latkas with Apple Sauce and Sour Cream. Other beers on tap include Cherry Fechter Special, Bourbon Barrel Fermented Dark Side Porter, C-sons Greetings, Jolly Bock and Aslan Belgian Style Golden Ale.

We hope you will all join us as we toast L’chaim!