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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Shadow of a stout

Rick Bonino

There’s apparently some big sporting event coming up this weekend that has everyone all abuzz. But until then, stay entertained at some of the beer-related happenings around the area:

- River City is warming up for its second anniversary celebration next weekend (Feb. 7) with its second annual Groundhog’s Day Prediction Party, Saturday from 3 to 9 p.m.

It’s a costume party of sorts, with a simple premise: If you think Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow when he emerges from his Pennsylvania lair on Monday – signaling six more weeks of winter – wear your woolies. But if you’re betting on an early spring, break out the shorts and sandals. Those who end up guessing right will be eligible for prizes.

In keeping with the theme, River City will be serving three versions of its seasonal Midnight Marmot imperial stout: regular, Randalled with raspberries, and the nitro Oako-Coco, conditioned over oak chips and cacao nibs. (The groundhog is, after all, a type of marmot.)

The anniversary Congratulator Doppelbock also will be on tap, with pint, growler and keg specials on all beers.

- After more than two years of preparations, Black Label Brewing officially opens Saturday at 1 p.m. in the new Saranac Commons development on the east end of downtown Spokane.

The environmentally conscious, four-barrel nanobrewery becomes the second business in the complex, joining Common Crumb Artisan Bakery. Look for more details here tomorrow.

- On Green Bluff, 238 Brewing is doing a series of soft openings in anticipation of a grand opening this spring.

Six beers are set to pour for pints and growler fills Friday from 2 to 7 p.m., Saturday from noon to 6 and Sunday from noon to close: Legacy Wit, Snozzberry (Raspberry) Wit, Station 47 Red, 5KIPA, the coffee-and-peanut-butter Partyline Porter and Switchboard Stout.

- Meanwhile, up in Newport, the Cork & Barrel Public House opens its doors Friday at 11 a.m. with six beers from hometown Top Frog on tap.

It’s a rare opportunity to try them all, since Top Frog doesn’t have regular taproom hours. Look for the Pilsner, Smoked Raspberry, Rye IPA, Winter, Poison Dart Porter and Fallen Frog Imperial Stout.