I was introduced to Caius at Rising Pint Festival over a year ago; I remember thinking that head brewer and owner Caius Mergy was someone to keep an eye on, and I’ve always kept an in-person taproom visit on my to-do list.
Finally, a few weeks ago, I made the two-hour drive to Branford to check out the place in person – and it was well worth it! Walking into the cathedral-style décor, full of stark wood and white walls, the brewery made a fantastic impression (the design inspired by traditional Roman meeting halls and German beer gardens, I later read).
I went straight to the bar and started tasting: first, Servilia (5.4% ABV) a German-style Pilsner that was a slightly more hop-forward version of the style, but very pleasantly so. Next, Balbilla, (4.9%) a German Kolsch-style Ale that I thoroughly enjoyed, along with the Brutus American IPA (6.5%): spoiler, it’s actually more of a juicy NEIPA, incredibly drinkable, and understandable why it’s so popular. My top pick, however, was
Britannicus, aDüsseldorf-style Altbier (5.6% ABV) made in collaboration with Tox Brewing: when I tasted it, I literally tipped my head to the side and said with delight: ‘What is that in there?’ This is something I love to experience when tasting, when there’s something special going on and I need to learn exactly what went into it to sate my curiosity.
Like I said, this brewer is someone to watch; I immediately got a pack of Britannicus to take home with me, and I’m looking forward to going back again soon.
Caius Farm Brewery
101 N Branford Rd, Branford, CT 06405
