Pony Bar, on 45th and 10th Ave, is one of the great craft beer bars in New York City. Last night they delighted us all with a night dedicated to the craft brewery, Long Trail, who recently acquired two additional microbreweries, Otter Creek and Wolaver’s, their all organic line. Their entire line-up was on tap.

Long Trail Brewery is most famous for their Long Trail Ale, but we ventured to try some more exotic ales.

The Hibernator (Long Trail): 6.0%. My favorite beer of the night, by far. An unfiltered Scottish Ruby Ale with a bite, the Hibernator had everything a good winter brew should, and, surprise!, an aftertaste of chocolate. Get one before they go out of stock in March!

Double Bag (Long Trail): 7.2%. Also known as a “Stickebeir,” or “Secret Brew”, this Dark Amber beer was absolutely delicious. Bitter and strong, this ale was treat to enjoy. The secret is out!

Brewmaster Series Winter White (Long Trail): 7.2%. Finally! A weissbier I can enjoy in cold weather! Very orangy in flavor, but still spiked with spices for a warm and refreshing taste.

Organic Brown Ale (Wolaver’s): 5.7%. Organic and fruity, this soft beer was not my style. Hints of cherry and black current made the beer smooth, but much too mild for me.

Not only were we served delicious beer, the Long Trail folks brought their OWN BAGPIPERS who played for the crowd throughout the night. The ambiance was delightful (if a little loud…)

While we were there, the bartender got up on the bar and announced that two member of the crowd had entered the “100 Beer” club - these are folks who have tried and rated 100 different beers at Pony Bar. An esteemed club, if I do say so myself! If you too would like to join, you can pick up a scorecard from the bar - the bartender will mark it off every time you order a new beer - you write down the name, the alcohol %, and your rating of the beer. You make it to 100, you get glory and a tshirt… and Pony Bar gets specific ratings letting them know what beers to keep on tap… and what to toss. Smart!