Tap Handle #504: Cold Spring Brewery - Third Street Brewhouse Lost Trout Brown Ale

Tap Size:  11.25"
Rarity:  Rare
Mounting:  internal 3/8" nut

When I first saw the Lost Trout tap, I didn't get it. I wondered, "what the heck is a 'lost trout'?" However, when exploring the Third Street Brewhouse website, I came across this description:

"Lost trout. It's a real problem in these parts. Legend has it this species flowed aplenty out back in the brewery creek, while others say the trout left town years ago. Where have all the trout gone? Maybe to those fancy creeks in the city, maybe to the local fish fry, or maybe - just maybe - they're living a life of crime on the streets. The legend of abundant trout in the creek seems a bit fishy..."

The Lost Trout concept makes a bit more sense to me now. It would appear that at one time there were trout in Cold Spring Creek, but now there aren't many (or any). The tap design captures the tongue-in-cheek description above by featuring a confused looking trout and a couple of arrows indicating it doesn't know which way to turn, as well as the label which features a fish on a milk carton. The tap is rare but can still be found fairly easily for a reasonable price.

For more about Cold Spring Brewery and Third Street Brewhouse, see this post.

Click through to read more about Third Street Brewhouse's Lost Trout and to see more photos of this tongue-in-cheek tap...

Lost Trout is a true brown ale, not only because of its color but because of its stringent adherence to the style guidelines; a real beer connoisseur's dream. The hop flavor and aroma is adequately full and assists the roasted malt flavors that are perceived on the palate. There is limited fruitiness and the body is appropriate.

Ratebeer weighted average:  3.2 out of 5

Beer Advocate:  83 out of 100 (good)