By Amy Arnett
In 2012, Lincoln and Amanda Wilkins purchased Blackwater Brewing Company in Davis, WV. The brewhaus has become a cozy spot for locals and travelers alike to enjoy great craft beer with some of Lincoln’s own menu concoctions.
“There’s a lot of psychology behind my tastes, which change seasonally and with mood,” says Lincoln. “I always look forward to brewing our seasonal ales, which is a refreshing change from the standard rotation of beers I brew throughout the year.”
The craft brew scene has recently exploded in the U.S., and West Virginia is on board with welcoming the burgeoning trend. Lincoln and Amanda have both appreciated the enthusiasm with which their crafting and culinary efforts have been met.
The eatery that is on-site at the brewery has always existed, according to Lincoln, but only recently did he take the creative reins. “Around mid-2014, I decided to take things in a new direction, to take over full operation of the kitchen myself and put my stamp on it,” he says. “We offer a limited selection of high-quality dishes each weekend: all fresh-made, with inclusion of locally sourced ingredients, as well as our beer.” The menu is crafted individually for each weekend service, and oftentimes, Lincoln incorporates the brews into the cooking of the food.
Another unique creation that has come out of the Blackwater Brewing Company is the Peppermint Patty Bomb, which was created by Stephen Dilletoso and is served at his restaurant, the Iron Horse Tavern, in Morgantown, WV. The cocktail is a twist on the traditional Irish Car Bomb and uses Blackwater’s Sweet Oatmeal Stout. According to Lincoln, it is “without a doubt, delicious and spot on for the holiday season.”
Peppermint Patty Bomb
Approximately ⅓ pint Blackwater’s Sweet Oatmeal Stout
½ oz Rumple Minze peppermint liqueur
½ oz Godiva Chocolate liqueur
Pour beer into pint glass. Set aside. Pour remaining ingredients into shot glass. Drop shot glass into pint upon service.
Blackwater Brewing Company is open on weekends and features a warm and welcoming eatery in the Canaan Valley area. More information can be found on their Facebook page and Web site, www.blackwaterbrewingwv.com. The Iron Horse Tavern is open daily, and more information can be found at www.ironhorsetvrn.com.
