The New York Public Library and TALEA Beer Co. have recreated George Washington's 1757 beer recipe, a 'small beer' made with molasses. A second, more modern 'Liberty Lager' was also developed. Samples of the original recipe will be offered at America250 events, with both brews available for sale.
The New York Public Library (NYPL) has recreated George Washington's 1757 beer recipe, discovered in his military journal. TALEA Beer Co. partnered with the library to bring the 'small beer' to life, using molasses as the primary fermentable sugar. The recipe involves boiling hops and molasses for three hours, fermenting with yeast for 24 hours, and bottling a week after brewing. TALEA also developed a modern 'Liberty Lager' with more hops and a clearer appearance for contemporary palates. The original recipe, likely served to troops during the Seven Years' War, had a small amount of alcohol and was safer than water due to the brewing process. The NYPL will offer samples of the recreated small beer at its America250 events this summer, and TALEA plans to sell both brews at its taprooms due to high demand. LeAnn Darland, co-founder of TALEA, expressed awe at the collaboration and hopes the patriotic brews can unite people.
This initiative offers a unique historical experience by allowing the public to taste a beverage prepared using a recipe from a foundational figure in American history, potentially fostering a sense of shared heritage and community.