A couple weeks back I met up with Matt, a follower of the blog and a serious beer guy, on my quest for a Duvel art glass. Four Moon Tavern in Roscoe Village was giving them away, and they had the one I was after — the one with the little bats flying around. Simple pleasures.

Arriving at the tucked away bar on a Tuesday night, me and my crew immediately found Matt and we started combing the menu.

After savoring the Duvel pour and admiring the glass, I moved on to New Belgium’s Snow Day, a dark, malty winter ale that slowed things down nicely.

With a couple of beer in us, Matt and bartender/owner Sparky, got an impromptu tasting going. Hoodwink, a dark sour ale from Two Brothers livened things up around the table. With a pitch black body with a light brown head, you know you’re in for something unique. Swirls of tartness and malts blend with a clear vinegar finish. A bit like a smelling-salt after my sleepy Snow Day.

Sparky dug up a bottle of Reprieve next, a Schwarzbier also from Two Brothers that gives off a ruby red hue through it’s dark body. It drinks lightly, like a lager, but has a sweet, smooth quality like a stout. And Two Brothers carries it through with a great fall flavor profile using mild spices and subtle hops.

And somewhere in the mix a cider got passed along to finish off the night. We had a great time, and some great beers thanks to Sparky and Matt’s local knowledge. It helps to have a guide sometimes.

If you’re in the area, Four Moon Tavern is a gem. But like any neighborhood spot, tread lightly. These local habitats support a delicate ecosystem of hunter-gatherers.