Internal Brewsletter - October 7, 2020
MARKETING UPDATES
BLOCK 15 CREW: STAFF APPAREL DESIGN SHOP
Every member of the Block 15 family has their own style, and we want you to be able to show it off at work! Today we are opening up the Block 15 Crew Shop. The graphic is exclusive to employees only, so you won’t be seeing this on the merch racks.
Just visit this store and choose between 9 styles and multiple colors that best represent you!
UPCOMING BOTTLE RELEASES
*We are going to start linking our distribution one sheets with these beer descriptions/updates so you can reference those for more detailed information and see what we give our accounts before they order!
Story of the Ghost // Hauntingly Pale Ale // Dropping this Saturday, just in time for you at-home Halloween party, Story of the Ghost! We feel we’ve never told you the story of this beer—a hauntingly pale ale brewed with extra pale malt, flaked wheat, and oats to produce a smooth, silky body. It’s big secret is an assertive late-addition of tropical, citrusy, and piney hops that will awaken your palate and reanimate your soul. // 8.75% ABV // $4.50 / 16 oz can, plus deposit
Cardinal Coalescence // Flanders-Style Red Ale // Not to be lost in shadows, Cardinal Coalescence is back! Inspired by the classically tart and delightfully complex red ales from the Flemish region of Belgium, Cardinal Coalescence blends fresh red ale with portions of mature brandy barrel-aged ale from our wild cellar. Extended conditioning in our oak foeders allowed this blend to develop wonderfully balanced notes of pie cherries, caramel, and dried fruit character alongside a complex acidity. // 6.1% ABV // $11.50 / 500mL bottle
GENERAL UPDATES
Please continue to review our menu changes happening around the company starting this week and next and ensure you know what’s up! Here is an overview of the changes for you to review beforehand so you can be prepared!
For kitchen folks, procedures can be found here.
The OLCC has extended the authorization to accept expired Oregon IDs through the end of the year, so please FOH’ers be aware of this as we’re checking IDs!
DOWNTOWN UPDATES
Some fall cocktail menu changes are happening this Friday, so be on the lookout! We also launched the Chai Painkiller at all locations this past Tuesday!
The Caves Public House has more detailed Opening, Closing, and Weekly Duties lists thanks to Rachel, so those that work in those locations will have more guidance for what to do during some down time.
We have timers for the bar and the host stand to remind us all to stay on top of the hourly sanitization lists.
TAP ROOM UPDATES
The slushy machine is no more for the winter. It will be back once the weather turns nice come Spring for everyone to get their frose on again!
Construction on the hood is well underway, and it’s looking shiny and new!
We’ll be hosting a fun little lawn chair live music session on Thursday, Oct. 8 here at the Tap Room. If you’re off, make a reservation and come on down to listen to some live music outside (maybe the last of the season?!).
As an FYI, food fulfillment times for take-out orders have been adjusted to 30 minutes for online take-out orders! This will give some flexibility to the kitchen to not have to worry about fulfilling them so quickly, especially when we’re busy for dine-in!
TAKE-OUT/DELIVERY UPDATES
Based on feedback at meetings with Nick and Kristen, food fulfillment times have been decreased to 15 minutes, but the number of orders per 15-minute period of time has been decreased. This change will allow the kitchen to sell food more quickly when it is slower, and make the system manage the number of orders that can be fulfilled every 15 minutes, thus making a more consistent flow of business!
JOY PALELIST
BLOCK 15 INSTA
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
This schedule is subject to change based on availability & brewing logistics!
Tap Room & Pub
Friday, 10/9 - Story of the Ghost / Cardinal Coalescence
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
The DAB Lab, Full Melt / Blazey IPA
Sahjon / Mixed-culture Saison
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
October’s People’s Pint will benefit Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit!
Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit (CMRU) offers assistance, without charge, for search and rescue in difficult areas and high-angle terrain. Skilled CMRU volunteers with mountaineering experience, trained in the many facets of technical alpine search and rescue, are available around the clock.
DINE-OUTS
Pub Dine Out: Check back in November!
Tap Room Dine Out: Oregon State Mycology Club - Tuesday, Oct. 20th
PEOPLE’S PINT THANK YOU’S!
We received a super nice thank you note from Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue (the beneficiary of our August People’s Pint program), and they were so grateful for our support especially during this crazy year! 💕
CASA’S SHOP SMALL, HELP BIG FUNDRAISER
CASA - Voices for Children is a non-profit organization working with foster children in Corvallis. They are Court Appointed Special Advocates, and their mission is to provide advocacy for 100% of abused and neglected children with open dependency cases within Benton County. CASA is a unique program; there are no other agencies or nonprofit organizations that provide advocacy on behalf of children in foster care. CASA is built on the foundation of everyday people contributing to make a difference in an abused child’s life.
Due to Covid-19 and the difficult year they have experienced as a community, they have decided to try a new "Shop Small, Help BIG" fundraiser this fall:
They are asking community members to purchase gift cards or certificates to their favorite local business and donate them to CASA. The cards and certificates will be gathered and auctioned live on our website or platform in the first week of December.
Our staff doesn’t have to do anything other than sell gift cards and the rest is handled by CASA! So it is a super easy, great way to support this organization. If you do have any questions, though, please reach out to Katy or Paige.
Internal Brewsletter - September 30, 2020
MARKETING UPDATES
*The marketing squad has a lot of really cool things in the works right now, and we want you to be informed as things start to roll out to the public. Starting today, we will be adding this marketing section to the weekly Brewsletter with some details on key stories and topics we're stoked to talk about in the days ahead.*
FLICKER IPA
Dropping this Saturday at the Tap Room is our fall seasonal favorite, Flicker IPA. Inspired by Autumn’s warm days and crisp nights, Flicker was designed to spark conversation and community while delivering a delightfully unique hop profile with notes of melon, lychee, stone-fruit, and pine. // 6.75% ABV / $3.25, plus deposit / 16 oz can
JOY PALELIST
With the recent release of Joy Pale, we’ve been having some fun sharing happiness beyond this delicious beer. We had some fun and made a Spotify Joy Palelist! The song names, artist or album all contain either the words “Joy,” “Pale,” “Block,” or “15."
Check it out here!
If you have any suggestions on what our next playlist should be, drop us a line at marketing@block15.com and let us hear it!
CORVALLIS HALF MARATHON
Even COVID can’t stop the die-hard runners out there! The 2020 Corvallis Half Marathon is going virtual this year, but we’re still playing a part.
We will be hosting the prize and merchandise pickup at our south Corvallis Tap Room on Sunday, October 4th from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. So keep an eye out for some sweaty, happy faces and be sure to send ‘em an socially-distant fist bump!
DINE-OUT PROGRAM
We’re happy to announce another Dine-Out at our downtown restaurant on Tuesday, October 6th from 3pm-9pm! This event will support the Jefferson Elementary PAT by donating a portion of the day’s sales.
We have evolved the Dine-Out program to encourage responsible social distancing. Guests now have the option to join us at the restaurant between 11:30am-9pm, or enjoy our to-go or delivery service between 4pm-8pm.
To learn more about Jefferson Elementary PAT please visit their website at: https://jefferson.csd509j.net/parents/jpat/.
GENERAL UPDATES
As many of you probably know, we are going to be adjusting our menu company-wide in the coming weeks! Here is an overview of the changes for you to review beforehand so you can be prepared!
For kitchen folks, procedures can be found here.
DOWNTOWN UPDATES
We have updated our well liquor prices to be $5.50 rather than $5.25, but will no longer be charging for Q Tonic or Ginger Beer additions.
The host iPad has been lagging lately due to the internet connection, so we are working on an LTE iPad for the host stand.
A Chai Painkiller will be joining our cocktail menu next Tuesday! Yum!
This will be at the Tap Room as well eventually!
TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY UPDATES
Take-out and delivery brunch starts this weekend!!! #mimosadeliveryFTW
TAP ROOM UPDATES
The Tap Room now has cocktails! Be sure to check them out and leave some feedback. Employees also still get their cocktail discount at the Tap Room as well, FYI!
MARGARITA / Altos Reposado tequila, triple sec, lime & orange juices, and simple syrup served on the rocks with a salted rim.
PEAR FLOWER / Wild Roots pear-infused vodka, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, and lemon and lemon-lime soda.
CURRANT MOOD / Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Clear Creek Cassis Liqueur, honey, lemon, and Q-Ginger Beer.
TEQUILA, BOURBON, GIN or VODKA / Served neat, on the rocks, or with a soda mixer.
Work is set to begin on installing the hood vent and fryers next week and we're hoping to be up and running with a fryer by the Fall menu launch on Wednesday, Oct. 14th!
FALL/WINTER HOURS UPDATES
*These are starting Monday, October 5!
Pub: Daily / 11:30am - 9pm (last seating)
Tap Room: M-R / 3pm - 9pm (last seating) // Fri-Sun / 11:30am - 9pm (last seating)
Caves Public House Dinner: Sun-R / 4pm - 8pm (last seating) // Fri-Sat / 4pm - 9pm (last seating)
Caves Public House Brunch: Sat & Sun / 9am - 2pm
STAFF UPDATES
WELCOME TO:
Anjulena Bagga - Host
Ian Gregory - Line Cook
Jess Louderbach - Line cook
CONGRATS TO:
Some girl named Paige, who recently marked her 5-year anniversary working at Block 15! 😉
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
This schedule is subject to change based on availability & brewing logistics!
Tap Room & Pub
Friday, 10/2 - Flicker IPA
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Flicker IPA / Inspired by Autumn’s warm days and crisp nights, Flicker was designed to spark conversation and community while delivering a delightfully unique hop profile with notes of melon, lychee, stonefruit, and pine. An IPA with gentle bitterness and hop notes of melon, tropical fruits, peaches, and pine. // 6.75% ABV / $13.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Story of the Ghost / Hauntingly Pale Ale
Cardinal Coalescence / Flanders-Style Red Ale
The DAB Lab, Full Melt / Blazey IPA
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
October’s People’s Pint will benefit Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit!
Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit (CMRU) offers assistance, without charge, for search and rescue in difficult areas and high-angle terrain. Skilled CMRU volunteers with mountaineering experience, trained in the many facets of technical alpine search and rescue, are available around the clock.
Pub Dine Out: Jefferson Elementary PAT - Tuesday, Oct. 6th
Tap Room Dine Out: Oregon State Mycology Club - Tuesday, Oct. 20th
Internal Brewsletter - September 23, 2020
MARKETING UPDATES
*The marketing squad has a lot of really cool things in the works right now, and we want you to be informed as things start to roll out to the public. Starting today, we will be adding this marketing section to the weekly Brewsletter with some details on key stories and topics we're stoked to talk about in the days ahead.*
CHARLIE’S DELIGHTS, PEACHES & DREAMS
Dropping this Saturday at the Tap Room is the 3rd offering of Charlie’s Delights. Peaches and Dreams is packed with peaches, apricots, tangerines, vanilla beans, and milk sugar. This one is sure to be popular as we hang on to the last warm days of the season.
ABV: 5% // Price: $5.00, plus deposit // Format: 16oz can
CHARLIE’S GOLDEN TICKET GIVEAWAY
Coinciding with the latest release of Charlie’s Delights, we are hiding Golden Tickets in 4-packs sold at the Tap Room. There will only be 5 Golden Tickets out there, so people will have to be on the lookout. Lucky winners will receive instructions to choose from a variety of prizes offered…all in addition to their delicious 4-pack of Peaches and Dreams!
FRESH CATCH DRY-HOPPED PALE
Fresh hop season is here! We rolled up to our friends at Crosby Hop Farm and swooped up some ridiculously fresh Strata hops for this year’s version.
About Fresh Catch:
A fresh-hopped pale ale brewed with Willamette Valley strata fresh hops that we picked up at the hop farm hours before adding them to a custom “hop back” tank, which we pumped hot wort through on its way to the fermenter, extracting vibrant notes of tropical fruit, ripe citrus, and fresh berries.
Tasting Notes: Berry, Citrus rind, Mango, Fresh-cut grass // Hops: Fresh Willamette Valley Strata // Grains: 2-Row, Best Ale, Crystal Light, Dextrin, C-35 // Yeast: American Ale // ABV: 5.75% // Availability: OR & WA // Format: 16oz can, Draft
DOWNTOWN UPDATES
We have switched to Q Tonic! There is an up charge for it, but it is a higher quality product.
Caves will be using rolled silverware for dinner now! #fancyAF
In the next couple of weeks at the Pub, we will be running out of the 3 Fools Cab Franc and switching to the 3 Fools Grenache.
TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY UPDATES
We are going to wait one more week to start the Take-Out/Delivery Brunch, just an FYI! We want to make sure we’re fully prepared for all those stay at home brunchers and give them the best experience possible! It should be good to go next weekend (Oct. 3 & 4).
TAP ROOM UPDATES
Frose is baaaaaack! Also, Charlie’s Delights slushy will be back for a few, be on the look out for a new flavor!
Here is a quick breakdown of who does what manager-wise at the Tap Room, so if you ever field questions you know who to direct them to!
K10: General issues, Reservations, Books & Money
Paige: Beer ordering & inventory, Drive-Thru Sale, Events
Jorden: Read & Signs, Maintenance
Alicia: Merch, Pub Liaison
FALL/WINTER HOURS UPDATES
*These are tentatively starting Oct. 5!
Pub:
Daily // 11:30am - 9pm (last seating)
Tap Room:
M-R // 3pm - 9pm (last seating)
Fri-Sun // 11:30am - 9pm (last seating)
Caves Public House Dinner:
Sun-R // 4pm - 8pm (last seating)
Fri-Sat // 4pm - 9pm (last seating)
Caves Public House Brunch:
Sat & Sun // 9am - 2pm
STAFF UPDATES
CONGRATS TO:
Dionne - Assistant Prep Manager
Liam M. - Lead Line Cook
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
This schedule is subject to change based on availability & brewing logistics!
Tap Room & Pub
Friday, 9/25 - Fresh Catch / Charlie’s Delights, Peaches & Dreams
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Fresh Catch // Fresh-Hopped Pale Ale / A fresh-hopped pale ale brewed with Willamette Valley strata fresh hops that we picked up at the hop farm hours before adding them to a custom "hop back" tank, which we pumped hot wort through on its way to the fermenter, extracting vibrant notes of tropical fruit, ripe citrus, fresh berries. // $18.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
Charlie's Delights, Peaches and Dreams // Overly Fruited Wit Style Ale / Years after taking over Wonka’s factory, Charlie began brewing the most scrumdiddlyumptious creations using uncommon techniques, abundant fruit additions, and extra special ingredients. Each brew is style-bending, jam-packed with character, and utterly delicious! Peaches and Dreams is a swirling fantasy of peaches, apricots, tangerines, vanilla beans, and milk sugar jam-packed into a delightfully tart witbier. // $20.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
Specular Reflections // Belgian-Style Dubbel Ale / Our meditation on the Trappist-style dubbel, this robust dark ale balances rich notes of dried plums, dark malts, fruit preserves, and clove spice—a complex and palate-provoking flavor profile that’s elevated by natural carbonation and a classically Belgian balanced finish. // $5.00 / 500mL bottle
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Flicker / IPA
Story of the Ghost / Hauntingly Pale Ale
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
October’s People’s Pint will benefit Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit!
Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit (CMRU) offers assistance, without charge, for search and rescue in difficult areas and high-angle terrain. Skilled CMRU volunteers with mountaineering experience, trained in the many facets of technical alpine search and rescue, are available around the clock.
Pub Dine Out: Jefferson Elementary PAT - Tuesday, Oct. 6th
Tap Room Dine Out: Oregon State Mycology Club - Tuesday, Oct. 20th
Internal Brewsletter - September 16, 2020
MARKETING UPDATES
*The marketing squad has a lot of really cool things in the works right now, and we want you to be informed as things start to roll out to the public. Starting today, we will be adding this marketing section to the weekly Brewsletter with some details on key stories and topics we're stoked to talk about in the days ahead.*
JOY JAMMIN PALE ALE
Starting this Saturday, September 19th, we will release our fourth year-round offering, Joy Pale Ale! We will be brewing this fresh and often. So if it runs out, don’t worry. It’ll be right back and fresher than ever!
About Joy:
Joy blends a pillowy-soft malt profile with a trifecta of tropical, citrus, and orchard fruit hop character. This nuanced, modern-day pale ale is brewed often, canned fresh, and designed to be enjoyed year-round. Drink your joy!
Tasting Notes: Soft, Tropical, Floral, Orchard Citrus Fruit // Hops: Mosaic, Cashmere, Azacca, Citra, Talus // Grains: 2-Row, Oat Malt, Flaked Oats, Flaked Barley, Rice Hulls // Yeast: Juicy // ABV: 5.6% // Availability: Year-Round / OR & WA // Format: 16oz Can, Draft
2020 BLOKTOBERFEST MERCH
You’re eyes aren’t fooling you, we have new Bloktoberfest threads! We updated the graphics for 2020, and ordered up some new offerings this year:
Grey crewneck sweatshirt ($40)
Heather blue tees ($21)
Printed masks ($8)
.5L logo’d beer steins ($8)
Your 25% employee discount applies to all of this if bought at a specific location (discount is not available online via the Saturday Drive-Thru Sale).
We kept our apparel count limited, so don’t miss out on these. When they’re gone, they’re gone!
WILDFIRE RELIEF FUND
In addition to the amazing volunteers that have been helping our community, we are asking our customers to contribute as well. In the next few days, you’ll be seeing new table signs like you see below, with 100% of proceeds going to the American Red Cross: Western Wildfire Fund.
There are 3 ways that people can contribute:
Ask the server to add a donation amount to your tab (Paige & Chris have this set up in our POS systems).
Scan the QR code to donate via mobile.
Drop cash donation into the countertop beer stein (will be set out at POS stations with a sign).
We are also adding a Wildfire Resource page to our website. This page details our efforts and lists out additional ways to help our community.
BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL PINS
Hot off the assembly line, we have some beautiful Black is Beautiful pins! In addition to BiB beers sales, we will be contributing from these pins to the NAACP as well. We are not setting a price on these pins, but we are asking customers and employees to donate as they see fit. We will then pass that along to the Oregon NAACP chapter.
**There is a “Donation” button on the Tap Room POS where you can ring in both the Black is Beautiful pin as well as the above Western Wildfire Fund donation. These buttons are also visible to anyone using our online ordering system, both for the Tap Room and Downtown Delivery/Take-Out.**
“A TOAST TO VOTES” BUTTONS
You will also be seeing some cool little buttons at all of our locations, reading “A TOAST TO VOTES.” We are calling for our community to get out and vote this November! The premise is pretty easy - scan the QR code on the button and it takes you to vote.org. There you can find out if you’re registered to vote, and if not, it will direct you to register before the October 13th deadline. These buttons are FREE for anyone and everyone!
DOWNTOWN UPDATES
This weekend is move-in weekend for those OSU students who have to be on-campus, so even though it’s not the full wave of students we normally get, expect a bit of a bump in business!
We began seating upstairs this week as the smoke has driven out outside customers to take shelter from the smoke.
The Hosting staff is putting more of an emphasis on beginning to recommend Caves Public House as a dining option before the Pub is totally full.
TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY UPDATES
Brunch is coming! Beginning next weekend, we will be offering Take-Out & Delivery brunch!
Later this week we will begin offering an intentionally curated list of bottled beers that are available from our cellar through the take-out & delivery site.
TAP ROOM UPDATES
Just a clarification, Tap Room hours are 11:30am-9pm (last seating at 9pm to ensure everyone is out by 10pm).
Here is a quick break-down of how the Tap Room Saturday Drive-Thru Sale works:
The store opens on Tuesday afternoon around 4pm or 5pm, and closes on Friday morning at 9am
Pick-up is on Saturday between 10am and 1pm
Customers select their pick-up time during the check-out process…if they don’t select a pick-up time, it automatically assigns them the next earliest time
This is the only place for folks to get their cornis filled or to get kegs, and it’s the best place for folks to secure the release beers (we normally won’t run out of beer but if people want to guarantee they get something, this is the best way to do so)
If anyone (customer or employee) has any questions, have them email Paige at paige@block15.com!
BOTH LOCATION UPDATES
We are now only accepting scheduled table requests (reservation) rather than allowing guests to add themselves to the waitlist for Downtown and the Taproom. This helps the restaurant better plan the arrival and flow of their experience. Adjustments to the response process for the reservation system has also changed, details of which are in each location’s Read & Sign.
DISTRO UPDATES
BLOCK 15 IPA EMPLOYEE SALE
We’re running another round of the employee-exclusive sale for Block 15 IPA 4-packs/cases! A screamin’ deal at $1/can, you don’t want to miss it! This beer is sill drinking awesome, it’s just a bit past our freshness goals for going into public distribution.
You can pick up your order on Saturday during the Tap Room Drive-Thru Sale between 10am-1pm (we are going to be strict with enforcing the Saturday-only pick-up, as for tracking purposes we don’t want orders picked up early (it gets confusing on Saturday for Paige to keep track of a whole list of people who have purchased but already picked up), and we don’t want orders picked up late as we just don’t have the room to store a bunch of individual orders…if it is super extenuating circumstances, Paige will work with you, but please don’t take advantage!). Paige will send out a confirmation regarding your pick-up time on Friday afternoon.
Orders can be placed here! Let Paige know if you have any questions!
STAFF UPDATES
WELCOME TO:
Oscar Monroy - Delivery Driver w/ the Distribution Team
Lauren Mesa - Host at the Pub
CONGRATS TO:
Patrick Morris - Company Head Chef
Tivey Hornberger - Prep Manager
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
This schedule is subject to change based on availability & brewing logistics!
Tap Room & Pub
Friday, 9/18 - Joy / Sticky Hands, Southern Exposure
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Joy Pale // Jammin Pale Ale / Joy blends a pillowy-soft malt profile with a trifecta of tropical, citrus, and orchard fruit hop character. This nuanced, modern-day pale ale is brewed often, canned fresh, and designed to be enjoyed year-round. Drink your Joy! // $12.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
Sticky Hands, Southern Exposure // Hop Experience Ale / Packed with hops from the land down under, this hop experience ale is loaded with luscious notes of fresh peach, mango, tangerine, and lime. southern exposure fuses our custom sticky co2 extraction with a tropical quartet of New Zealand and Australian hops; galaxy, rakau, cascade and wai-iti. a generous portion of crisp pilsner malts soften the grist profile, producing a sticky hands variant perfect for fall, or an Aussie spring. // $18.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Fresh Catch / Fresh Hopped Pale Ale w/ Strata
Charlie’s Delights, Peaches & Dreams / Over-Fruited Tart Wit-Style Ale w/ Peaches, Tangerines, Apricots, and Vanilla
Specular Reflections / Belgian-Style Dubbel
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
September’s People’s Pint will benefit The Arts Center!
Pub Dine Out: Check back in October!
Tap Room Dine Out: Muddy Creek Charter School- 9/22
Internal Brewsletter - September 10, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
BLOKTOBERFEST 2020
Dust off your tirolerhut and break out those dirndls—Bloktoberfest 2020 is still happening! Just a little different than you remember.
We may not be able to have a weekend bash under the tent this year, but we’re not going to stop celebrating the best time of the year! Mark your calendars for 16 days of German-inspired food, Oktoberfest-themed decor, and new merch at all of our locations. The socially-distanced fun runs from September 19-October 4th.
Merchandise-wise, we’ll have sweatshirts, t-shirts, and masks available for purchase! We’ll also be getting in a limited amount of .5L steins, so don’t fret - you’ll be able to add to your stein collection.
We’ll also be running food specials at all three locations throughout the 3 weeks:
Bavarian Artisan Board / Assorted sausages, cheeses, mustards, and pickles with house baked ale bread (Tap Room only)
Festival Sausage Sandwich / Beer poached and grilled Peppertree Sausage House festival sausage with stone ground mustard, sauerkraut and melted swiss cheese on a pub roll (Tap Room, Pub & Caves)
Pork Schnitzel / Thinly pounded Carlton Farms pork cutlet, breaded and fried. Drizzled with brown butter pan sauce and served with apple compote and warm, house made German potato salad (Pub & Caves)
German Farmers Hash / Hash potatoes, onion, green bell pepper, bratwurst and swiss cheese, topped with 2 eggs. Served with toast and jam. (Caves Brunch)
Additionally, we’ll be offering some cool packages at the Saturday, Sept 19th Drive-Thru Sale! Details on those will be available next week.
We’ll disseminate more information as the start gets closer, including details on dress code, pricing, etc. In the meantime,
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
September’s People’s Pint will benefit The Arts Center!
Pub Dine Out: Chintimini Senior and Community Centers - 9/15
Tap Room Dine Out: Muddy Creek Charter School- 9/22
In years past, we’ve had Sick Town Derby Dames as either a People’s Pint/Dine Out partner, but with everything going on this year we weren’t able to slot them in for anything. However, they are hosting a a virtual race throughout the whole month of September. It’s called the Good Times Roll Virtual Skate, Ride, Run, Walk. You can choose a 5k, 10k, half marathon or marathon and have the whole month to complete the distance, either in one go or in chunks. You can access the race website here.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
This schedule is subject to change based on availability & brewing logistics!
Tap Room
Friday, 9/11 - Nelson. Nelson? Nelson! / Bloktoberfest / Ocelot Pale Ale
Pub
Friday, 9/11 - Nelson. Nelson? Nelson! / Bloktoberfest
Saturday, 9/15 - Ocelot Pale Ale
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Nelson. Nelson? Nelson! // India Pale Ale / Brewed with 100% Nelson Sauvin, vibrant hop notes of mango, lychee, and gooseberry underscore a bright aroma of white grape character. a Gentle backing of flaked barley and oats supports this single-hop exploration with a soft mouthfeel and a sweet finish. Nelson? This IPA is unequivocally NELSON! // $18.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
Bloktoberfest // Marzen Lager / Bavarian-style amber lager, brewed with with German malts and delicate noble hops. Cool fermentation and extended cold conditioning smooths out this balanced lager with a round finish. // $10.40 / 4-pack, 16oz cans
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Joy / Pale Ale
Sticky Hands, Southern Exposure / Hop Experience Ale (using all Southern Hemisphere hops!)
Charlie’s Delights, Peaches & Dreams / Over-Fruited Tart Wit-Style Ale w/ Peaches, Tangerines, Apricots, and Vanilla
Internal Brewsletter - September 2, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
BLOCK 15 IN THE SOUTHWEST!
We are stoked to announce the arrival of select beers to the Southwest!
Beginning in September, freshly canned Sticky Hands IPA will be available statewide in cans at participating Arizona retailers.
Check out the official press release/Brewbound article here.
CIDER TRIAL TESTING
We’re still soliciting feedback for our cider trials! Details are below.
This is where you come in. We want your feedback! There are currently 2 development batches on tap at the Tap Room, and we’re offering two FREE 10oz pours as long as an in-depth review is provided afterwards. Tap Room staff will create a tab for you and add the cider to it, and once you have tried it and completed your review you can check back in with them and they will comp it for you. If you do not complete a review or decide you don’t have constructive feedback to give, you are responsible for paying for the value of the cider pour.
Here is the link below to access the review page.
*TAP ROOM STAFF: There is a 100% Cider Trial discount button for you to use.
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
September’s People’s Pint will benefit The Arts Center!
Pub Dine Out: Chintimini Senior and Community Centers - 9/15
Tap Room Dine Out: Muddy Creek Charter School- 9/22
In years past, we’ve had Sick Town Derby Dames as either a People’s Pint/Dine Out partner, but with everything going on this year we weren’t able to slot them in for anything. However, they are hosting a a virtual race throughout the whole month of September. It’s called the Good Times Roll Virtual Skate, Ride, Run, Walk. You can choose a 5k, 10k, half marathon or marathon and have the whole month to complete the distance, either in one go or in chunks. You can access the race website here.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Wonka’s Wit, Tangerine Vanilla Bean (TBD)
Wonka’s Wit, Raspberry Rose (TBD)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Wonka’s Wit, Tangerine Vanilla Bean // Our nod to historic witbiers—Wonka’s Wit is a blend of up to two-year-old, oak barrel matured wild witbiers, further matured with a young witbier in large oak casks for five months with orange and coriander. We then reserved a small portion of our Wonka’s Wit to further mature with tangerine and Madagascar vanilla beans. // $11.50 / 500mL bottle
Wonka’s Wit, Raspberry Rose // Our nod to historic witbiers—Wonka’s Wit is a blend of up to two-year-old, oak barrel matured wild witbiers, further matured with a fresh witbier in large oak casks for five months with orange and coriander. We then reserved a small portion of our Wonka’s Wit to further mature with red raspberries and dried rose petals. // $11.50 / 500mL bottle
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Nelson, Nelson? Nelson! / IPA w/ Nelson Sauvin
Bloktoberfest / Marzen Lager
Joy / Pale Ale
Internal Brewsletter - August 27, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
BLOCK 15 IPA EMPLOYEE SALE!
We are offering a sweet employee deal on Block 15 IPA 4-packs this weekend so we can clear up some cooler space. It is still drinking awesome, it's just a bit outside of our ideal freshness range for distribution.
4-packs will be a whopping $4 (so a full case would be $24)!
Orders can be placed via this employee-exclusive Square store link. You can pick up your order during Saturday's Drive-Thru Sale (8/29), and during the checkout process you can select a pick-up time between 10am-1pm. This is a different store than the normal, customer Saturday sale, so if you are putting in an order for the regular Saturday sale as well it will be two separate transactions, however you can pick both orders up together. The store will close Friday morning at 9am, however if you still want to order some after the link closes please let me know and I can work something out for ya!
If you are unable to pick up your order on Saturday during the set time frame, please let me know via HotSchedules or email (paige@block15.com) and I can coordinate a different time for you to pick it up. Or if you have any questions about the sale in general let me know!
CIDER TRIAL TESTING
The rumors are true, we’ve begun making hard cider! The brew team is currently developing the inaugural batch of Fresh Press, Unfiltered Hard Cider. Using a combination of Pacific Northwest apples and fermented with select European yeast, this cider is an easy drinker.
This is where you come in. We want your feedback! There are currently 2 development batches on tap at the Tap Room, and we’re offering two FREE 10oz pours as long as an in-depth review is provided afterwards. Tap Room staff will create a tab for you and add the cider to it, and once you have tried it and completed your review you can check back in with them and they will comp it for you. If you do not complete a review or decide you don’t have constructive feedback to give, you are responsible for paying for the value of the cider pour.
Here is the link below to access the review page.
*TAP ROOM STAFF: There is a 100% Cider Trial discount button for you to use.
FOOD FEEDBACK!
Let’s try to all focus on giving some awesome food feedback this week, regardless if it’s your break food or if you come in on your day off and grab something to eat.
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
September’s People’s Pint will benefit The Arts Center!
Dine Outs will be announced next week.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Black is Beautiful
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Black is Beautiful // Imperial Stout with Blackberries / Started by Weathered Souls brewing in San Antonio, The Black is Beautiful initiative is a collaborative to bring awareness to the injustices that many people of color face daily. The mission is to bridge the gap that's been around for ages and provide a platform to show that the brewing community is an inclusive place for everyone of any color. For our version, we stuck as close to the base Imperial Stout recipe as possible, further maturing our release on 600lbs of Oregon Blackberries. 100% of proceeds from this beer will be donated to the NAACP Corvallis/Albany Brand, NAACP Student Chapter, and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. // $20.40 / 4 pack
Turbulent Illumination // Blend of Belgian Tripel and Spontaneous Wild Ale / This unique 50/50 blend of young and old features stock from two Belgian-inspired beers, beautifully harmonizing familiar flavors and aromas to produce a complex blend that feels altogether new. Our young Belgian tripel, Illuminated, contributes classic Trappist notes of honey, golden raisins, and spice. Our lambic-inspired and spontaneously fermented wild ale, Turbulent Consequence, brightens the blend with citrusy acidity and flavors of orchard fruit, tropical fruit, and a rustic wild funk. // $11.50 / 500mL bottle
*This is a re-release from earlier this year!
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Wonka’s Wit, Tangerine Vanilla Bean / Wild Ale with Tangerine & Vanilla
Wonka’s Wit, Raspberry Rose / Wild Ale with Raspberry & Rose Petals
Bloktoberfest / Marzen Lager
TAP ROOM UPDATES
ROTATING FROSE
Just an FYI we will be rotating our frose flavor fairly frequently - the next iteration will be peach!
Internal Brewsletter - August 19, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
BLOKTOBERFEST 2020
As we get closer to that time of the year, we know folks will start to ask questions about whether or not Bloktoberfest is a go. There will be a plethora more details to come, however we can tell you that we are doing a hybridized version of Bloktoberfest this year! Keep a eye out for more details to come. Prost!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
Congratulations to K10 (aka Kristen Taylor), who has been with us for 10 whole years!
And, wish Rachel Z. a big congrats too for hitting her 5 year!
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
Check out next week’s brewsletter for information on September’s People’s Pint and Dine Outs!
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
We’re going to be streamlining our tap rotation process and updates a bit to ensure we have a better way to update you all of what is going on tap and where. So hang tight! :)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Charlie's Delights, Blueberry & Blackberry Pavlova // Overly Fruited Wit Style Ale / Years after taking over Wonka’s factory, Charlie began brewing the most scrumdiddlyumptious creations using uncommon techniques, abundant fruit additions and extra special ingredients. Each brew is style-bending, jam-packed with character, and utterly delicious! BLUEBERRY & BLACKBERRY PAVLOVA is a whimsical spin on the classic dessert, stuffing an abundance of blueberries, blackberries, lemons and vanilla beans into a zippy witbier. // $20.40 / 4 pack
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Black is Beautiful / Stout
TAP ROOM UPDATES
SLUSHY MACHINE CLEANING
As we’ve gotten to know the slushy machine more and more, we’ve determined it needs more regular cleaning! Chris H. recorded a super informative instructional video to show the step-by-step cleaning protocol. This video will be easily accessible on one of the iPads, and there are also paper instructions in the binder.
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE UPDATES
MENU UPDATES!
The doughnut is changing from strawberry rhubarb to peach!
The berry waffle is leaving the menu with no replacement.
Internal Brewsletter - August 12, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
A big welcome to the following folks, who have just recently joined us! As you see/meet them, make sure to give them a warm welcome!
Michele Adkison - Controller
Nathan Stewart - Dishwasher
Zach Menegat - Dishwasher
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
This month’s People’s Pint benefits Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue!
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
We’re going to be streamlining our tap rotation process and updates a bit to ensure we have a better way to update you all of what is going on tap and where. So hang tight! :)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
*Check back next week!
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Black is Beautiful / Stout
*There will be more information coming on this going forward, FYI!!!!
Internal Brewsletter - July 30, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
TAP ROOM MENU UPDATES
The Tap Room menu is getting updated a bit, starting on Friday 7/31! In addition to the below menu changes, there will be a minor price increase of all menu items as well.
Z.A.T / Grilled zucchini, avocado, tomato relish, citrus aioli and house smoked mozzarella on ale bread.
Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad (Replaces Strawberry Salad) / Local grape tomatoes in a balsamic herb marinade w/ arugula, burrata cheese and lemon zest.
Bier Cheese Nachos / House Bier Cheese, refried black beans, shredded lettuce, salsa roja, guacamole, sour cream, and cotija.
Additionally, chips and guac will be available again and smoked mozzarella will replace feta on the artisan board. The ZAT and nachos will be additional items. Nothing will be removed in their place.
CHARLIE’S DELIGHTS UNVEILING
Introducing the first offering in our new rotating series of Overly-Fruited Tart Wit-Style Ales, Charlie’s Delights! Packed with bursting flavor, Summer Berry Lemonade is releasing this weekend at our south #Corvallis Tap Room.
Years after taking over Wonka’s factory, Charlie began brewing the most scrumdiddlyumptious creations using uncommon techniques, abundant fruit additions, and extra special ingredients. Each brew is style-bending, filled with character, and utterly delicious!
Summer Berry Lemonade jam-packs over 1000lbs of fresh Oregon strawberries, lemons, and raspberries into a zippy base witbier. The result is a bright and vibrant blend of refreshing fruit supported by clean acidity and a crisp, wheat finish.
Charlie’s Delights: Summer Berry Lemonade will be on draft this Friday, with pre-order crowlers available for Saturday’s Drive-Thru sale. Add in Peach Punch (You in the Eye) and Notion’s 15 IPA’s, and you’ll think you found the Golden Ticket.
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
Check out next week’s brewsletter for more info!
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Friday 7/31 - Peach Punch (You in the Eye) / Notion’s 15 / Charlie’s Delights (*also being released in 32oz crowlers!)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
**UPDATE UPDATE!!!! - We are AGAIN shifting the way we do can/bottle releases at the Tap Room from here on out. We will be releasing the cans/bottles on SATURDAYS. The Saturday sale is the best, least contact-y way for customers to get beer (as well as the only place for folks to get their cornis filled or order kegs), and we want to encourage folks coming to this sale. Draft will be available on Friday’s (as it used to be), but cans will only be offered via the Drive-Thru Sale initially and then the Tap Room thereafter.
Saturday 8/1:
Peach Punch (You in the Eye) / IPA w/ Peach and Apricot / Great Notion and Block 15 have teamed up again, blending techniques and ideas from both breweries to brew this luscious, fruit-forward IPA. Peach Punch was fermented with peaches and apricots and dry-hopped with massive amounts of galaxy and mosaic hops. / $18.40/4-pack
Notion’s 15 / IPA / Our second collaborative brew with Great Notion for 2020—Notion's 15 is a classic West Coast IPA brewed with a bounty of Citra, Simcoe and Columbus hops. / $18.40/4-pack
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Turbulent Consequence, Pêche / Spontaneously Fermented Ale with Peaches
Internal Brewsletter - July 22, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to our new Marketing Manager, Pascal Fritz! He will be working remotely for part of the week, but he’ll be around the locations on Monday’s and Tuesday’s, so make sure to say hi!! 👋
PUB + CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE MENU UPDATES
Starting likely next week sometime, the Pub will be switching our Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir to new draft versions. On tap, we will have the same "Rudolfo" Pinot Gris from Lumos (same as what we have in bottles at the Pub, but a different vintage) and the Lumos Pinot Noir. The draft wines will be the only glass pours that will be discounted during Happy Hour, and that new discount will be $1 off.
Here is the updated employee wine sheet for reference if needed!
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
UPCOMING DINE-OUTS
Tap Room Dine-Out / Tuesday, July 28th for KidSpirit
KidSpirit strives to serve as a leader in providing young people with intentional, high quality, equitable learning experiences that promote positive interactions among adults and peers.
Additional info for our staff: KidSpirit is an OSU program. It evolved from the summer sports program at OSU. Kidspirit offers sports, arts, science, gymnastics, cooking, and so many other activities as part of their Summer Day Camp. Gymnastics and No-School Day ACES Day camps are offered all year long! KidSpirit continues to expand to this day, constantly innovating and creating new programs to best serve the youth of the community.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Monday 7/20 - Wellspring
Friday 7/24 - Animal Cookies IPA
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
As an FYI, we are shifting the way we do can/bottle releases at the Tap Room from here on out (just a bit!). We will be releasing the cans/bottles on Fridays - that way both the draft and packaged product are available at the same time. The Saturday sale is still the best, least contact-y way for customers to get beer (as well as the only place for folks to get their cornis filled or order kegs), but essentially we just want it easy for people to pick up the beer they want!
Friday 7/24:
Animal Cookies / IPA / Brewed for the hop-loving animal inside of you, this can is packed with sticky, pungent hops. Unleash a swirling circus of pineapple, tangerine, mango, pine, and dank herb hop character, balanced with pale malt and malted oats for a soft mouthfeel and gentle finish. / $16.40/4-pack
Ridgeback Red / Red Ale / Ridgeback Red features a blend of rustic malts with zesty hops grown right here in the Pacific northwest. balancing flavors of caramel and toasted nuts with pine, lemon, and grapefruit hop character, It finishes delightfully crisp for a malt-forward beer. / $11.40/4-pack
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Peach Punch (You in the Eye) / IPA w/ Peaches and Apricots
Notions ‘15 / West Coast IPA
*The above two beers are dope Great Notion collabs!
Turbulent Consequence, Pêche / Spontaneously Fermented Ale with Peaches
Internal Brewsletter - July 15, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
STAFF MILESTONES
Congrats to the following folks, who have hit some major milestones here at Block 15!
5 years:
Jorden / Tim / Tyler L. / Kat / Aaron / Seth (on his last day with the company!)
10 years (pew pew pew!):
Alty / Manny
PUB + CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE MENU UPDATES
Based on a few weeks of flow and being open at the Pub and Caves Public House, we’ve made the following menu tweaks:
All burger patties will be 4oz patties
Pork is no longer on the BBQ burger
Chips and salsa roja is gone
Soup is gone
Grilled onions are now available. The line will grill them to order.
We’ll be making some tweaks at the Tap Room as well, and those will be released next week and will go into effect on the week of July 27th.
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
UPCOMING DINE-OUTS
Tap Room Dine-Out / Tuesday, July 28th for KidSpirit
KidSpirit strives to serve as a leader in providing young people with intentional, high quality, equitable learning experiences that promote positive interactions among adults and peers.
Additional info for our staff: KidSpirit is an OSU program. It evolved from the summer sports program at OSU. Kidspirit offers sports, arts, science, gymnastics, cooking, and so many other activities as part of their Summer Day Camp. Gymnastics and No-School Day ACES Day camps are offered all year long! KidSpirit continues to expand to this day, constantly innovating and creating new programs to best serve the youth of the community.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Thursday 7/16 - Step Outside Pale Ale
Friday 7/17 - Fluffhead IPA
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
As an FYI, we are shifting the way we do can/bottle releases at the Tap Room from here on out (just a bit!). We will be releasing the cans/bottles on Fridays - that way both the draft and packaged product are available at the same time. The Saturday sale is still the best, least contact-y way for customers to get beer (as well as the only place for folks to get their cornis filled or order kegs), but essentially we just want it easy for people to pick up the beer they want!
Friday 7/17:
Summer Knights Kölsch / Kölsch / This German-style Kölsch beer blends a pilsner malt base with both the lightly fruity quality of an ale and the clean finish of a lager. Enjoy while reminiscing about Corvallis Knights games at the ballpark, playing catch in your backyard, or just kicking back after a long day. / 16oz cans / $11.40/4-pack
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Animal Cookies / IPA
Peach Punch (You in the Eye) / IPA w/ Peaches and Apricots
Internal Brewsletter - July 9, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
TAP ROOM TABLE-ESQUE SERVICE
Going forward at the Tap Room, we are going to be starting a modified version of table service. This is mostly to deter people at outside tables from coming inside to order. Tap Room staff will have mobile iPads that they will carry on their person, which will enable them to take an order directly at the table. If folks are still comfortable ordering on their phones, they are totally able to do so, but we no longer want to encourage the option to come in and order at the bar.
It would be helpful to get feedback on this process, so if you come into the Tap Room as a customer, try to use this new system to give us an idea on how it’s going!
DELIVERY CROWLER PROCEDURE AT THE PUB
There will be a new procedure for Delivery crowlers at the Pub, so for folks that applies for, please keep your eyes open for that new procedure that Goody will be rolling out.
THE PEOPLE’S PINT
We are excited to welcome back The People's Pint Tap program with some socially responsible modifications! Our featured partner for July is the Institute of Applied Ecology, and the selected beer is Gloria!. The major modification to this program is that both draft pours and can sales will now be included in the donation- that way, guests that aren't yet comfortable joining us in-house can still contribute with to-go beer. (Distribution sales are not included, only sales from the pub/Caves public house and TR.) It is likely that we will stick with Gloria! as the selected beer for the entire month as we evaluate the success of this modification and evolve the process.
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Friday 7/10 - Dark Matter
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Friday 7/10:
Dark Matter / Chocolate Porter / A dry porter that combines deep, roasty malt character with notes of cocoa and dark fruit from the addition of chocolate to the conditioning tank. / 16oz cans / $11.40/4-pack
Turbulent Consequence, Gouden Bessen / Turbulent Consequence, Gouden Bessen is our select barrel blend of eighteen-month Turbulent Consequence stock further matured for six months on local golden raspberries and golden cherries. Turbulent Consequence is brewed using historic lambic methods, including a turbid mash with Oregon-grown raw wheat and barley, extended boil with aged hops, inoculation by resident flora in our wild cellar’s coolship, and spontaneous fermentation and maturation in oak barrels. / 500mL bottle / $11.50
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Summer Knights / Kölsch
Animal Cookies / IPA
Peach Punch (You in the Eye) / IPA w/ Peaches and Apricots
Internal Brewsletter - June 24, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
FROM RED, WHITE & BOOM! TO LIBERTY & JUSTICE FOR ALL!
After much reflection and discussion, we have decided that our annually released Red, White & BOOM! IPA needed an update to better reflect the times we are in. When we first decided to brew the beer again, it was back in April, in the midst of pandemic uncertainty. At the time, it felt like a good plan to bring back this celebratory and slightly tongue-in-cheek “Independent Patriotic Ale,” as we looked forward to summer celebration bringing needed cheer to the heaviness of life lived in a pandemic.
Since then, things have dramatically changed in our nation. Though racial injustice has plagued America from its inception, many Americans are being re-awakened to the fact that oppression remains a daily experience for tens of millions of our brothers and sisters of color. At Block 15, we’ve also realized that a beer so enthusiastically celebrating our independence ignores the fact that freedom and justice has yet to be realized by so many people in our nation. Those of us privileged to be able to celebrate our own freedoms this July must do so while actively standing with those who are still fighting for a chance to live their own American Dream.
Each year we will use this new program to both discuss and practically contribute to efforts to bring Liberty and Justice for All—especially to those marginalized by the color of their skin. This year we will be donating a portion of the proceeds from this beer to ColorOfChange.org as they work to end practices that unfairly hold Black people back while promoting solutions that move us all forward.
Peace, Love, and #JusticeForAll!
- Block 15
STAFF UPDATES
WE’RE HIRING FOR A FULL-TIME DELIVERY DRIVER!
Our Distribution Team is hiring for a Full-Time Delivery Driver! It's posted both internally and externally. If you or anyone you know might make a great fit for this job please encourage them to apply here. The deadline for applications is Monday, July 6th @ 5PM. Please reach out to Chris Althouse (aka Alty) if you have any questions!
BLOCK 15
CAVES PUBLIC HOUSE
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Friday 6/26 - Liberty & Justice for All! / The DAB Lab, Lil Dab / DDH Sticky Hands (Double dry hopped variation of Sticky Hands *draft only*)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Saturday 6/27 - Liberty & Justice for All! (16oz cans // $15.40/4 pack) / The DAB Lab, Lil Dab (16oz cans // $15.40/4 pack)
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Intergalactic Hop Shop / Cosmically Hoppy Ale
Turbulent Consequence, Gouden Bessen / Spontaneous Ale w/ Golden Cherries & Golden Raspberries
Internal Brewsletter - June 17, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
RED, WHITE & BOOM UPDATE
Just as an FYI, we will not be releasing this beer this weekend as planned. It will be released in the future as Liberty & Justice For All. More information will follow!
PUB & CAVES UPDATE
Please read/re-read/familiarize yourself with Nick’s HotSchedules message regarding the updates to the services at Pub and Caves going forward! That is the most up-to-date information, and we’ll let you know more as things progress.
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Saturday 6/20 - Turbulent Consequence, Bing / Welcome Back IPA
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Saturday 6/20 - Fresca Pils (16oz cans // $12.40/4 pack) / Turbulent Consequence, Bing (500mL bottles // $11.50)
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
The DAB Lab, Lil’ Dab / Progressive IPA ftg. Hop Extracts
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday 6/20 - Caves Father’s Day Cellar Event @ Caves
Internal Brewsletter - June 11, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
CROSSWORD SUBMISSIONS
Not sure if everyone knows this - but there is a huge cohort of people here at Block 15 and Caves who looooooooove the crossword!
So, in order to stick with tradition, we will be launching our own Block 15-themed crossword that will be included with all to-go orders from the Pub!
Making a crossword is quite the feat, so we need your help creating clues and answers - you can submit ideas here! Please keep them Block 15 or beer-related, and (obviously), family friendly and appropriate.
More info on the dissemination of the crossword will be available once it is finalized.
BLOCK 15 CUSTOM MASKS
We just got in some saaawweeeeeet custom Block 15 face masks for employees to wear! There is a box of masks in the employee room at both the Pub and Tap Room for you to grab at your convenience - please honor a one mask per person limit!!!
Brewery & distro - your respective managers have your masks, so connect with them!
And, just a reminder - make sure to wash your mask frequently! Your skin will thank you!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
MARKETING MANAGER POSITION
The Marketing Manager position is still open! Please review the positing here if you’re interested in throwing your hat in the ring!
CASH TIP CLAIMING
For folks who are receiving cash tips at the moment, please be sure to continue to claim those when you clock-out! Those still need to be tracked accordingly, accurately, and appropriately.
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Saturday 6/13 - The DAB Lab, New Wave / Fresh Flow / Cassidy
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Saturday 6/13 - The DAB Lab, New Wave (16oz cans // $18.40/4 pack) / Fresh Flow (16oz cans // $13.40/4pack) / Cassidy (500mL bottles // $11.50)
If you want to guarantee you snag some beer, make sure to put in an order for the Saturday Drive-Thru Sale! Use the coupon code SunshineEmp to get your employee discount as well! The store will be open through 9am on Friday.
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Red, White & BOOM! / Independent Patriotic Ale
Fresca Pils / Italian Pilsner
Turbulent Consequence, Bing / Spontaneously Fermented Ale with Bing Cherries
Welcome Back / IPA
UPCOMING EVENTS
Tuesday 6/16 - Dine Out for Grace Center for Adult Day Services @ the Tap Room
TAP ROOM UPDATES
Starting this week, we’re shifting our weekend hours to open at 12pm! So Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we’ll be open 12pm-9pm, and Monday through Thursday 3pm-9pm.
Internal Brewsletter - June 4, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
EMPLOYMENT & OPERATIONS UPDATES
With Benton County soon entering Phase Two, we are evaluating the possibilities of opening our pub for dine in service! The Caves space is a bit trickier due to its size but we are evaluating our options there as well. Our plans for the Tap Room include moving our hours on Friday-Sunday to 12pm-9pm starting next week, transitioning to daily by the end of June. With these incremental additions we look forward to bringing more of you back to work!
There will be more information to come in the following weeks.
ALPHA IPA AKA BLOCK 15 IPA
As many of you have seen, we have begun canning an IPA that will be offered year-round (along with Sticky Hands and Gloria). This IPA is the final evolution of our beloved Alpha IPA - however, the reason it’s been canned as Block 15 IPA is that there are a plethora of Alpha-related beers already out in the market (Hop Valley’s Alpha Centurion being but one example). So, out in the world it will be known simply as IPA.
With that being said, though, in-house we will continue to call it Alpha IPA, as that’s what our customers and employees know it so lovingly as.
Please review the awesome marketing write-up we did for this beer, and hopefully that will answer most of your questions (and please direct customers there as well). If you have additional questions, please feel free to reach out, though!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
MARKETING MANAGER POSITION
We are hiring for a Marketing Manager, as our dear Seth is heading off to OSU to work in their eCampus department. Please review the positing here if you’re interested in throwing your hat in the ring!
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability, and, you know, our current weird situation. So please be flexible!
TAP ROOM
Check back next week!
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
The following is the way upcoming packaged beers will be released going forward:
The first release will be via the Saturday Drive-Thru Sale here at the Tap Room. Once that sale is finished, it will be available in the Tap Room itself for purchase.
On Tuesday, distro transfers beer to the Pub, and it will be available there via delivery/take-out.
So, if someone is super hyped about a beer and wants to guarantee they can get it, please direct them to the Saturday Drive-Thru Sale (the store goes live mid-afternoon Tuesday through 9am on Friday)!
*Check back next week for our next packaged beer release!
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Fresh Flow / IPA
The DAB Lab, New Wave / Progressive IPA ftg. Hop Extracts
Cassidy / Wild Ale w/ Flower petals
THE PEOPLE’S PINT / DINE OUTS
Due to everything going on, Katy is working on adjusting this program going forward, so please keep an eye out for more information in the coming weeks! On that note, though, please continue to support our local organizations any way you can!
PUB UPDATES
The Tuscan Chicken Sandwich returned yesterday! That means we will now have ale bread available.
On the ale bread note, the BLT will now be coming on ale bread (no more sourdough).
TAP ROOM UPDATES
We put up some awesome umbrellas over some of the outside tables, which will give us more flexibility in inclement weather, as well as give more comfort to folks on super hot days!
Keep an eye out for hour changes - specifically, we’ll be opening at 12pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting next week!
Internal Brewsletter - March 11, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
COVID -19/CORONAVIRUS COMPANY STRATEGIES
As the COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) continues to spread throughout the country it is important for our company to begin planning for the potential consequences and to develop distinct strategies. First and foremost we must keep our employees & customers informed and safe.
Nick, Kristen, and Chris have put together a fairly comprehensive write-up of steps for us to take to help try to keep us all healthy. This is primarily geared toward FOH and BOH staff, however it is valuable information for everyone to know and everyone to practice. Many of the tactics are things that we already do, however this is a new emphasis on them, and there are a few new things on this list.
If you have any questions or concerns, please follow up with Chris. Stay healthy, everyone!
FRONT OF HOUSE BEER EDUCATION
March’s FOH education topic will be yeast! The following requirements will be due by the last day of the month, which is Tuesday, March 31st. We are currently evaluating some aspects of our FOH education program, so there will be no classes this month.
Your requirements are as follows:
Read the yeast write-up, which is posted in the break room, in the education binder at the bar, and here.
Complete your ClassMarker quiz
Complete your 4 Block 15 beer reviews. Please use the online link here, as 33 Beers Books no longer exist.
If you have any questions or know you will not be able to meet one of the requirements, please let Katy know prior to the due date.
Cheers!
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
REVIEW TIME
It’s review time for the wonderful miss Alex Goodwin! You can leave feedback here, and we’re asking for it by March 13th.
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability.
TAP ROOM
Fri 3/13: Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Turbulent Illuminated (going on empty tap)
Tues 3/17: Dry Irish Red (going on nitro tap, Ridgeback Red is also being pulled in interim while this is on)
Fri 3/20: Spring Amusement 2020 (going on empty tap) / Fluffhead (replacing A Nugg Hugg)
PUB
Fri 3/13: Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Turbulent Illuminated (going on empty tap)
Tues 3/17: Marzen (replacing Ridgeback Red) / Dry Irish Red (going on nitro tap)
Fri 3/20: Spring Amusement 2020 (going on empty tap) / Fluffhead (replacing A Nugg Hugg)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Fri 3/13 - Illuminated ($5) / Turbulent Illumination ($11.50) // all in 500mL bottles
*These will be available at both the Pub and Tap Room in packaged form as well as on draft!
*The Mug Club discount will be available for Turbulent Illumination (this is acting as our “monthly packaged beer offering” for this month).
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Golden Canary / Blended Golden Wild Ale
Fresca Pils / Italian Pilsner
Oaked Maibock / Foeder Aged Maibock
Tequila Gose / Tequila Barrel Aged Gose
EVENTS
BLOCKOUT = tap takeover
**Be sure to share/like the Facebook events to spread the word to your friends!
Check back next week!
THE PEOPLE’S PINT / DINE OUTS
March’s People’s Pint partner is Corvallis Environmental Center. The designated beer is Alpha IPA at the Pub and Surf Wax America at the Tap Room.
NEXT PUB DINE OUT
Check back in April!
NEXT TAP ROOM DINE OUT
Tues 3/24 - Linus Pauling Middle School
PUB UPDATES
MARCH SPECIALS
Brewer’s Board - Face Rock aged cheddar, house pickled brussels sprouts, sour cherry chutney, thinly sliced bresaola, Queen Bee honey and house baked ale bread. / $13.99
Smoked Pork Croquette - Breaded and fried smoked Carlton Farms pork stuffed with Willamette Valley Cheese Co. gouda. Served with black currant mustard. / $10.99
Whiskey & Bacon Steamer Clams - Pacific NW manila clams steamed with garlic, chives, Whiskey, smoky bacon and cream. Served with house baked ale bread and lemon. / $15.99
Paddy’s Patty Melt - Oregon Natural beef mixed with our stout, onions, garlic, and pepper. Topped with melted Face Rock aged white cheddar and whiskey caramelized onions, on toasted sourdough. Served with beer battered fries. / $15.49
Procedures can be found here!
STAFF PROVISION
Thursday 3/12 - Stephen’s Greek Burger, paired with Print Master’s Pale Ale
*Submit ideas here!
Internal Brewsletter - March 4, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
BEERVANA PODCAST SHOUTOUT
A recent episode of the Beervana podcast talked about our wild program and our longstanding work using mixed-fermentation techniques. It’s a pretty cool podcast in general, and a great shoutout for us!
Take a listen here. If you want to skip directly to Block 15’s part, head to minute 30.
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
WELCOME!
Welcome to our two newest staff members - Blake Myers is joining us as our Sales Distribution Rep, and Olivia Kimmel has joined us as a Host at the Pub. Make sure to say hey when you see ‘em next!
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability.
TAP ROOM
Fri 3/6: Vienna Lager (replacing Doppelbock)
Tues 3/10: Marzen (going on empty tap) / Dortmunder Export (going on empty tap)
Fri 3/13: Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Turbulent Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Golden Canary (replacing Cosmic Cold Brew if still on)
PUB
Fri 3/6: Vienna Lager (replacing Doppelbock)
Tues 3/10: Marzen (replacing Surf Wax America) / Dortmunder Export (replacing Winter Amusement)
Fri 3/13: Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Turbulent Illuminated (going on empty tap) / Golden Canary (going on empty tap)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Tues 3/10 - Emerging Sunshine / 16oz cans / $3.25/can plus deposit
*THIS RELEASE HAS BEEN PUSHED TO NEXT TUESDAY (it was slated for this Friday!)
*This will be available at both the Pub and Tap Room in packaged form as well as on draft!
*This is our Spring installment in our quarterly IPA series!
Fri 3/13 - Illuminated ($5) / Turbulent Illuminated ($11.50) / Golden Canary ($11.50) // all in 500mL bottles
*These will be available at both the Pub and Tap Room in packaged form as well as on draft!
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Spring Amusement 2020 / Blended Saison
Dry Irish Stout
Fresca Pils / Italian Pilsner
EVENTS
BLOCKOUT = tap takeover
**Be sure to share/like the Facebook events to spread the word to your friends!
Fri 3/6 - Sticky Hands Promo Night @ Downward Dog Campus / 4pm-7pm
*Come drink $3 Sticky Hands and hang out!!
THE PEOPLE’S PINT / DINE OUTS
March’s People’s Pint partner is Corvallis Environmental Center. The designated beer is Surf Wax America at the Pub and Alpha IPA at the Tap Room.
The People’s Pint for Ocean Blue Project raised $719.25! Woohoo!
NEXT PUB DINE OUT
Tues 3/10 - Keitha's Kittie Rescue
NEXT TAP ROOM DINE OUT
Tues 3/24 - Linus Pauling Middle School
PUB UPDATES
MARCH SPECIALS
Brewer’s Board - Face Rock aged cheddar, house pickled brussels sprouts, sour cherry chutney, thinly sliced bresaola, Queen Bee honey and house baked ale bread. / $13.99
Smoked Pork Croquette - Breaded and fried smoked Carlton Farms pork stuffed with Willamette Valley Cheese Co. gouda. Served with black currant mustard. / $10.99
Whiskey & Bacon Steamer Clams - Pacific NW manila clams steamed with garlic, chives, Whiskey, smoky bacon and cream. Served with house baked ale bread and lemon. / $15.99
Paddy’s Patty Melt - Oregon Natural beef mixed with our stout, onions, garlic, and pepper. Topped with melted Face Rock aged white cheddar and whiskey caramelized onions, on toasted sourdough. Served with beer battered fries. / $15.49
Procedures can be found here!
STAFF PROVISION
Thursday 3/5 - Simon Smoked Salmon Blinis, paired with Doppelbock
*Submit ideas here!
Internal Brewsletter - February 26, 2020
YOU OUGHTA KNOW!
MASH PADDLE HAT PROMO
We want to get as many employees as possible in those dope AF mash paddle hats, so we’ll be running a promo for the next few weeks - either of the two color schemes will be on sale for employees only for $5!!! You can purchase them at either location, and the discount button is in both POS’.
Get ‘em while they’re hot!
WINERY LICENSE ADDITION
There are some licensing changes coming up in the near future, and Nick has some specific verbiage to use if you are asked about it once the word gets out:
“We are in the process of restructuring our licenses to allow for more creative freedom. From the day we first opened back in 2008, Block 15 has enthusiastically explored hundreds of styles, techniques, and ingredients, even when this type of experimentation and style diversity was not the norm in the brewing industry.
Over the years, some of the more progressive projects that we envisioned were held back by the limitations of our brewery license. Adding a winery license opens up another world for us to explore, study, and create. We are so fortunate to be situated in the midst of fertile PNW farmland, which provides access to freshly harvested grapes, apples, berries, fruits, honey, and so much more. Our new licensing structure will enable us to evolve our offerings and artistic expressions by more fully taking advantage of this locally grown bounty.”
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Nick!
ARE YOU A TECH WIZARD?
If so, Heuchert needs help with a project!
He needs two tech savvy folks that are willing to help him with a special project at the Pub next Thursday evening (March 5th) for approximately 3ish hours. If you’re interested, shoot him an email or Hot Schedules message.
THE CORVALLIS HALF MARATHON & 5K
The Corvallis Half Marathon & 5K is quickly approaching! The 5k and the Half Marathon are both (newly this year!) on Saturday, April 11th. Block 15 encourages you to participate! In support of this, we will be covering the whole registration cost of any Caves or Block 15 employee who participates.
You must request, and be approved for, that time off of work by February 29th.
If you would like to register for one of these runs, please check in with your scheduling manager first. Sarah and Laura will be giving Kristen a list of all staff members who are approved for that time off. She will then message all approved staff with a code and the web site that will allow you to register for free!
Please note this “offer” is only good for those of you who participate. If you register, but don't participate, you will owe Block 15 the registration fee, so make sure to only sign up if you are committed to running!
For event specific information, please visit the Corvallis Half Marathon website. Let Kristen know if you have any questions.
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
WELCOME!
Welcome to our newest staff members!
Thomas Villa - Dishwasher at the Pub
Ellen Greb - Prep Cook at the Pub
Sam Christensen - Line Cook at the Pub
Devon Ahearns - Dishwasher at Caves
Give ‘em all a big hello when you see them!
STAFF MOVES
Congrats to Josh Ganter, who has moved up to our newest Pub Server!
REVIEW TIME
It’s still still review time for Manny and Melissa out here at the Tap Room, in addition to Nathan and Dionne at Caves. You can leave feedback here.
Please make sure to leave feedback - it’s really important!!!!
BLOCK 15
CAVES
WHAT’S GOING ON TAP SOON?
Dates are subject to change based on tap availability.
TAP ROOM
Fri 2/28: A Nugg Hugg (replacing Fluffhead)
Tues 3/3: ----
Fri 3/6: Emerging Sunshine (going on empty tap) / Vienna Lager (replacing Doppelbock)
PUB
Fri 2/28: A Nugg Hugg (replacing Fluffhead) / Surf Wax America (replacing The DAB Lab, Juice Joint)
Tues 3/3: ----
Fri 3/6: Emerging Sunshine (replacing Super Nebula, Breakfast with the Turkey) / Vienna Lager (replacing Doppelbock)
UPCOMING CAN/BOTTLE RELEASES
Fri 3/6: Emerging Sunshine / 16oz cans / $3.25/can plus deposit
*This will be available at both the Pub and Tap Room on Friday in packaged form, as well as on draft!
*This is our Spring installment in our quarterly IPA series!
UPCOMING / IN PROCESS BEERS
Illuminated / Belgian-style Tripel
Turbulent Illumination / Blend of Belgian-style Tripel and Spontaneous Wild Ale
Marzen / Lager
Dortmunder / Lager
Golden Canary / Blended Golden Wild Ale
EVENTS
BLOCKOUT = tap takeover
**Be sure to share/like the Facebook events to spread the word to your friends!
Check back next week!
THE PEOPLE’S PINT / DINE OUTS
February’s People’s Pint partner is Ocean Blue Project. The designated beer is Doppelbock at the Pub and Winter Amusement at the Tap Room.
The People’s Pint partner for March will be Corvallis Environmental Center!
NEXT PUB DINE OUT
Check back in March!
NEXT TAP ROOM DINE OUT
Check back in March!
PUB UPDATES
MARCH SPECIALS
Check back next week for March’s monthly specials!
STAFF PROVISION
Thursday 2/26 - Jeramie's Cod Po'Boy, paired with Gloria!
*Submit ideas here!