The other half had a birthday on Monday which took up a bunch of time, what with planning a party last week/end and all. We’re back in action today, though! Beer spies are out and we’ve learned several new things lately:

Vortex mania
Vortex 1 from Pisgah Brewing is on-tap now at Barley’s. (It’s not Vortex 3, but a repeat appearance of Vortex 1.) At any rate, it’s a Triple IPA, 10.0% abv. We hear there’s Saison brewin’ too.

Imperial watch
This year’s imperial brew from Highland will be Imperial Black Mocha Stout. This is going to be a huge hit for sure! Next up: The summer seasonal, Cattail Peak Wheat.

Highland Cup and the Long Shot?
The MALT folks tell us that Asheville homebrewer, Aaron Schenk, not only won the Highland Cup, but also the Sam Adams Longshot Contest with his German Pilsner. Congrats, Aaron!

New FBB bottles/art
The new bottles of French Broad Brewery’s 13 Rebels ESB are here! New awesome artwork, too. Wee-Heavyer bottles are not far behind. (Should have them tomorrow.) Both are 22oz. Drew tells us he’s also making a Saison. Nice!

Yes, you can have stout in the summer
Asheville Pizza & Brewing has a new oatmeal stout. Doug gave some to the birthday boy. It’s yummy.

Not thirsty enough
The Thirsty Monk is expanding to the now vacated upstairs with an entrance on Patton Avenue and will include American craft brews, leaving the Belgian-style potables for the “grotto” downstairs. Renovations have already started and the goal for opening is Bele Chere weekend.

11:11
The Brick Store Pub in Decatur, Ga. is celebrating its 11th anniversary with 11 rare kegs. They’re even getting a Highland firkin! Just a few: Avery Brewing Co. Uber Swine (double dry hopped Hog Heaven); Oskar Blues Chubbourbon (Old Chub aged in bourbon barrels); Allagash Rosa (Tripel aged 1.5 yrs in oak barrels then blended with brett); Victory Wild Devil (Victory HopDevil IPA w/ brett); Harviestoun Ginger Lime. Commence the salivating.