The University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History has refined the perfect recipe for the first Wednesday of each month: It includes a scholarly blend of local craft beer and thought-provoking discussions with experts about the science, ecology and cultural history behind it all.
“Ideas on Tap will provide opportunities for community members to interact with researchers and professionals – but in a relaxed, non-academic setting that encourages everyone to participate,” Lauren Willis, the museum’s programs and exhibitions developer, told the UO’s “Around the O” online newsletter last January. “And of course, it’ll be an opportunity to enjoy some terrific local beer.”
For the past six months, the MNCH has held these free events from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at breweries, taphouses and pubs, drawing in a small audience of students, professors and other members of the community. They cover all sorts of topics related to beer and the brewing industry, from brewing science to hops history or even climate justice.
The series was hosted at Sam Bond’s Garage in the Whitaker for the first few months, before coming to it’s current location at Claim 52.
“Many of the issues that will be discussed at Ideas on Tap have a direct effect on our business, its customers and the community,” said Jim Montgomery of Sam Bond’s Brewing Co. in the same UO article. “We hope that our brewery’s involvement will bring craft beer enthusiasts to the table to share in this knowledge.”
In addition to Sam Bond’s Brewing Co. and Claim 52 Brewing, the series has recruited the involvement of several other local companies, such as Falling Sky Brewing, Newman’s Fish Company, WildCraft Cider Works and more. The project has been a successful marketing and educational collaboration that has benefited both the museum and the craft beer industry.
The last event on July 1 covered the topic of “Aroma Hop Cultivars and the Craft Beer Industry,” exploring how new cultivars can expand flavor and aroma possibilities for craft beers. It was led by Oregon State University’s Shaun Townsend, an Assistant Professor and hops breeder and specialist who has contributed to numerous studies and articles written about hops and craft beer. (Check out one of his interviews here.)
Next up on the menu is a discussion about the connections between cider making and environmental stewardship with WildCraft Cider Works’ Sean Kelly. Kelly will be focusing on the history of apples in Oregon, the relationships between abandoned orchards and natural habitats and the sustainable harvesting of cider’s raw materials.
WildCraft Cider Works is the only cidery in Eugene and prides itself on its many varieties of seasonal, small-batch dry ciders — both on tap and bottled in flavors ranging from rose to ginger.
The next (free) Ideas on Tap event is August 5, 7-9 p.m. at Claim 52 Brewery at 1030 Tyinn Street. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. For more information on the series or the upcoming event, visit the MNCH website or find the event on the UO website’s event calendar.