Friday 13th of January 2012 07:35:19 AM

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In early 2012 I discovered the new taproom at Prism brewery. At the very end of Dickerson Road, look for the small Prism sign, and drive around back of the building complex. Walk up ramp to the unassuming entrance, and enter the colorful orange tasting room. There are several tables and a 13-chair black-top bar, with a window into the spacious brewery in the background. A couple widescreen televisions and several games give this taproom the feel of a small sports bar. Prism beers are complex, robust, and always flavorful. Their flagship ParTea Pale Ale is brewed with copious tea leaves, the Bitto Honey IPA is bittersweet and hoppy (65 IBU), and Death March is a fascinating black ale with star anise but zero hops (how rare!). A couple seasonals such as Red Zone (with cinnamon, spices, and maple syrup), and Love is Evol (with strawberries and jalapenos) augment the menu. I was impressed at the spectrum of unique recipes, and ironically there are no "light" beers at Prism! The taproom also features wine, mead, and cider from nearby Boyd's Cardinal Hollow Winery. The service was attentive and excellent on both my visits.