Exploring 1000 Islands

Did you know many years ago the native peoples of 1000 Islands called this region the ‘Garden of the Great Spirit’? It’s no surprise why. Carved by the St. Lawrence River, the 1000 Islands region is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The striking bay, slow-moving channels and picturesque islands make this region an incredible destination to explore. Let’s take a look at the rich history of a few of our favorite islands.

Calumet Island: Calumet Island is one of the most recognizable islands off the shore of Clayton. According to ThousandIslandsLife.com, tobacco tycoon Charles G. Emery built the very first castle of the 1000 Islands on Calumet back in the late 1800s. When Emery bought the island in 1882 he changed the name from Powder Horn Island to Calumet Island. His castle was completed in 1884 but was completely destroyed in 1911 from an accidental fire. Since then, Calumet Island has been home to a restaurant, bar, marina and is currently a summer retreat for the Rawson family.

Governor’s Island: The St. Lawrence River is the only natural outlet to the Great Lakes. This means that it is thriving with ecological resources where scientists and students can learn. ThousandIslandsLife.com says Governor’s Island was donated to SUNY-ESF (College of Environmental Science and Forestry) by James and Lorraine Lewis. The research done on Governor’s Island has been critical in learning about northern pike, muskellunge, smallmouth bass, walleye, lake sturgeon and more. Today’s research covers fisheries, wetlands, invasive species, water-level management, and restoration ecology.

Washington Island: 1000 Islands has world-class diving thanks to Washington Island. In 1876 St. Lawrence River Chart No. 6 listed a shipwreck off the lower bay of Washington Island. While the origin is unclear, it is said that the Schooner Elk missed the entrance of the lower bay and hit the head of Washington Island. To keep from sinking, Captain Willard Cook sailed to shallow water of only 10 feet where the Schooner Elk eventually sank to the bottom. To learn more about Washington Island’s Wreck, visit the following link.

1000 Islands is a beautiful place to visit year-round. If you plan on visiting upstate New York this summer, Wood Boat Brewery is a must-have for beer and pizza enthusiasts. Our Clayton location makes Wood Boat Brewery the perfect stop for lunch or dinner when you need a break from exploring surrounding islands. Like us on Facebook to learn more about our handcrafted pizza and ice-cold beer. We hope to see you soon!

What Makes a Seasonal Brew?

A shandy in the summer, pumpkin ale in the fall, and something strongly spiced in the winter… you may notice the changes in beer throughout the year but how much do you really know about seasonal brews? If you’re an expert beer connoisseur or a novice drinker looking to learn more, we have put together a simple guide explaining what you need to know about seasonal beer.

What constitutes a seasonal brew? Seasonal beer is made with fresh ingredients that are in season based on time of year, climate and even tradition. For example, summer seasonal beers are often light-bodied and fruity ales because fruit and wheat crops are thriving. Similarly, pumpkin beer is a popular brew of fall because pumpkins are less expensive, widely grown and a highly anticipated treat for the holidays.

How does seasonal beer vary throughout the year? You’ll find beer shift from season to season much like the weather. As summer fades, light ales and fruity beers are replaced with stronger, darker brews. Fall is a popular time for beer enthusiasts to indulge in Oktoberfest, pumpkin beer and brown ales. Common beer styles that are enjoyed during winter months include Holiday ales spiced with cinnamon, vanilla or cloves, and dark brews like stouts and porters. Spring is a great time to revive light and refreshing brews including Irish ales, IPA’s and blonde ales.

Wood Boat Brewery invites you to our Clayton microbrewery for a pint of our NEW Bourbon Barrel Aged Brown Ale! After months of waiting, we are thrilled to feature this new concoction on tap for all to enjoy. Bourbon Barrel Aged Brown Ale is a delicious blend of four of our finest beers, aged in bourbon barrels for 5 and a half months. Stop in and try a cold pint of our new brew – it pairs wonderfully with our delicious Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos and other favorites.

To learn more about our Bourbon Barrel Aged Brown Ale and other seasonal brews including NYS Cider, Cherry Wheat, Pumpkin Ale and Lime Shandy, follow Wood Boat Brewery on Facebook or visit us at www.woodboatbreweryny.com