The party is still going on as I write these words. Yesterday I braved the after-work traffic from North Park to Vista. Friday the 15th marked the beginning of Iron Fist’s weekend-long Grand Opening Celebration. I arrived to a full tasting room tucked away in the industrial park zone of Vista, and had to nudge my way into a spot at the bar for beer and info. The place was packed.
I caught the ear of Brandon Sieminski, Iron Fist BrewMaster. To my question on construction time, he responded that there was a bit of an ordeal that took 5-6 months. “It was worth it,” he responded with a smirk and a gesture to the multitude of smiling faces. The Iron Fist team, which is mostly family, hails from San Marcos. “We’re locals – so this was a natural decision to set up nearby. The city of Vista was very accommodating.” The elegant woodwork that dominates the interior style and design of the tasting room was stained by the family themselves.
Regarding the beer, Brandon explains: “I wanted a beer for every situation – something for everyone.” Altruistic, but the opening selection was impressive. Hired Hand Saison (6.5% ABV), Spice of Life Belgian Style Spiced Ale (6.5%), Dubbel Fisted Dubbel w/ “a California Twist, (8.1%)” Golden Age Belgian Strong Ale (9.2%), & Renegade Blonde Kolsch (5.2%) make up the repertoire as of now. A chalk board titled “Up and Coming Uprisings” announces The Velvet Glove Stout will arrive in 3 weeks, The Resistance Wild Ale & Dark Days Barrel-aged Stout will arrive in 6 months.
I opted for the taster of four for $5, and then added on another for $2 to try all 5 beers available. On first taste, they were all delicious. Dubbel Fisted stood out in both name and flavor. Everyone around me was ordering Hired Hand. My first-taste review wouldn’t do the beer justice. I’ll save a thorough write-up for when we get to sit down with the Iron Fist crew once the confetti lands.
