I think Spellbound is a decent brewery. I've had some good visits. I've had some forgettable ones. The taproom tenders can be super friendly and outgoing one day, and completely zombified the next. To me that can be a drag on the whole beer drinking experience. I don't expect them to be buddy buddy, but maybe something better than a TGIF bartender. As for the beer... It's solid, but in general not terribly spectacular. I try to be objective knowing that I've been to places like Alchemist and Treehouse and numerous other "unicorn" breweries around the U.S. I don't expect Spellbound to hit me with a life-altering beer like a Julius or Heady. But, I do think they have the potential. I just don't think they've reached the point yet where they've mastered the craft. In my honest opinion, they have good concepts, but mostly play it safe. Which is okay, by the way. After all, in order for them to appeal to the masses and make money they have to make an IPA this, or a coffee Porter that. But, I think they really show bright when they do the white pepper, white sage ale that they do. A few more daring brews like that and they'd start to enter the conversation of top breweries in the NY/Philly metro area. However, they also need to technically refine their process and product. Other than their porters or stouts their beers generally lack absolute full body/balance of flavor. And, on more than one occasion I've sipped their beer and it has been oxygenated.
I'm willing to hang tight with Spellbound, because I believe they have potential to see the next level. But they probably need an injection of "new blood" to see things to that point. In other words, they could benefit from going outside NJ to acquire brewing talent. Nothing against NJ. I've basically lived here most of my life. But it isn't exactly known for groundbreaking breweries/Brewers. That's fact. But that's all the more reason for a place like Spellbound to really push things to another level. Unlike places like upstate NY, Cali, or Mass, NJ is still an unfinished canvas waiting for someone to leave their undeniable mark. I'm rooting for Spellbound to see that end. But only...
Read moreI've known the name for years & was happy to finally stop into their location!
Finally got a chance to visit Spellbound Brewery in Mount Holly, and had a fantastic experience! The location was top-notch, with plenty of parking and a welcoming atmosphere. Parked in the back and made my way through their canning area. Looks like there is a second entryway that gets you right into the tasting room but my first time attending, I didn't realize that. Very spacious in there and looks like they host special events as they had a few cornhole boards off to the side and a couple of picnic tables.
The tasting room was also spacious, I'd say about 10 tables for groups of 2-6, and then the bar area which had an additional 20 seats. Right behind the bar had a lot of wall decor and a wide selection of beers on tap to choose from. You were able to scan a QR code to see their full list or they had 2 TVs displaying their options at the end of the bar as well. I also appreciated that the brewery was dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot to hang out with friends and their furry companions. It was great to see a venue that catered to groups, with samplers available for those who wanted to try a bit of everything.
The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the various brews on offer but also chatted about the ingredients with other patrons and similar brands, which made for a great experience.
If you're in the area, definitely worth the trip. There are a few other breweries and distilleries all in the area and worth the walk between them if you've got the warm weather to...
Read moreBeen here a few times , nice place. Some people have commented or the location . Get over that, consider the location "funky" or whatever. I've been to many brewpubs, especially in Maine where my wife and I go to fish. Anybody that knows beer, knows the Maine Beer Company. First couple of years, they were in an Industrial park, but the beer was always excellent.
Inside, the Spellbound bar area was just fine, I have seen worst by far.
Now the beer. I am pretty much an IPA guy, don't really go for all the fruit stuff, etc. If my wife is with me, she will have one of those types and usually will enjoy it.
The IPA? One of my favorites and I usually will grab a case. Now,I have had tons of IPAs. I have had better ones, but these guys are making a good solid IPA and they should be proud. Although I rarely drink Pale Ales, they make a very good one of those also and I'll grab one of those once in a while.
Glad this place is in my...
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