Thankfully, all was not lost when Haven Gastropub + Brewery closed in Pasadena in 2013. Co-founder Wil Dee returned to Old Towne Orange’s friendly confines, home to the original Haven Gastropub and sister establishment Provisions Market. Dee teamed with Randy Nelson on Chapman Crafted Beer and brought in former Drake’s and Haven head brewer Brian Thorson. I haven’t been to the source yet, but really enjoyed Chapman Old Towne Fest. I found this 5% ABV festbier in the “Malty” section on The Bottle Room craft beer menu in Uptown Whittier.

According to head brewer Brian Thorson, “We wanted to create a lighter, more drinkable Oktoberfest beer than you would find with most American versions. We looked back to the classic Oktoberfest brewed in Germany which are lighter in color, dry, and low ABV for inspiration. I added a touch more Vienna malt to create a slight amber hue, while retaining the light, dry, and crushable nature of the beer style. We were really excited about how the beer turned out because ultimately the goal was to create an extremely drinkable sessionable Oktoberfest.”

Unfortunately, Oktoberfest doesn’t last forever, so Old Towne Fest was short-lived. I was glad I got the opportunity to pair a pint with one of The Bottle Room’s vaunted burgers and grilled corn on the cob “elote.”