Tap Handle #136: Tommyknocker - Jackwhacker Wheat Ale

The tap on the left is my current Jackwhacker tap. It replaces the version on the right, which was simply a polished rock glued to the top of a wood post (and has since been sold). I have another very similar tap for Tommyknocker's Cocoa Porter. While my previous version was more rare, I like the newer version better.

Tommyknocker Brewing was founded in Idaho Springs, Colorado in 1859. During the Colorado gold rush of 1859, Idaho Springs became a popular location for mining, and the Tommyknocker Brewing Company was established to meet the needs of the large number of prospectors. Tommyknocker Brewery in Idaho Springs, CO is located in the old historical Placer Inn. Opened around 1859, the Placer is located only 4/10th of a mile from the spot where George A. Jackson found the first Colorado gold. The Placer was a very busy place during the gold rush days. It housed an assay office where the miners would bring in their finds at the end of each day. After the days activities the miners drank black coffee, ate hot bread, pork, and beans for their supper. The company name comes from the tommyknocker, a mythical elf-like creature who was said to live in the cracks of mines. Tommyknocker has seven core beers and six premium/seasonals.

Jackwhacker is an American-style wheat ale with a lemony-citrus flavor, and it won a gold medal at the 2000 North American Brewer's Association Awards. Weighted average on ratebeer.com is 2.72 out of 5.

Tommyknocker Official Website