A stammtisch is a German word for “regulars table”.  In a German pub, you will many times come across a table near the bar with an embossed plaque with “stammtisch” written on it.  This table is reserved for the “regulars” at the bar and in ages past was reserved for the higher class.   The word has now become more universally used for those who like to sit together to discuss a common interest (chess, books, etc.), though the origins are definitely steeped in beer lore. 

 

The SBL Stammtisch is where our group meets to share beer and swap recipes.  As this is not allowed at our regular meeting place (bringing in outside beers into the establishment), we meet at a different member’s house every other month (or thereabouts) to share our homebrews and/or interesting commercial brews.  An email will go out to members to inform of the upcoming time and location.  The stammtisch is geared toward those members who are active brewers and wish to share their beers with others (as well as receive of course!).

 

Rules of the Stammtisch:

· RSVP to the host upon receiving the email

· Also, let the host and/or Mike Tripka, Sgt of Arms, know what beer(s) you plan to bring.  We are leaning toward homebrewed beers first, but interesting or hard-to-get commercial beers can be brought as well.

· Plan to bring a 6-pack:  bring 2-3 bottles to share and discuss (what recipe, interesting process, or just giving/receiving feedback).  Bring an additional 2 bottles (with a label) for the “beer swap” at the end of the session.  Bring an extra for the host.

· Upon leaving, you will pick up 2 different beers off the beer-swap table, so that you can try others’ beers.

· Depending on the number of beers RSVP’d, we may have to put a limit on it.  For now we’re thinking no more than 12 beers at any one session, so RSVP early.  Maybe limit 2 beers per any person.

 

The format for a Stammtisch can be just a low-key night at someone’s house or part of a Brew Day event.  Not planning on any official club business at these though I’m sure upcoming beer events will be discussed.  We’re looking at trying to have these a mixture between weekday and weekend events, so that there is a chance for everyone to come at least to some of them. 

 

If you would like to host a Stammtisch, let a club officer know.  Check the home page or Calendar for the next stammtisch in a town near you!

The inaugural stammtish—December 13, 2007