Messorem Bracitorium

Some breweries are good. A few are great. And then there are places that feel so dialed in, so creative, that you can’t imagine visiting that city without stopping in. Messorem Bracitorium is one of those places.

During my brewery tours of Vermont, I’d heard about Messorem Bracitorium more than once. It was  recommended by the staff at Foam Brewers and echoed again by a beer tender at Freak Folk Bier. So, my expectations were measured. Still, I wasn’t fully prepared for what I walked into. The beer here operates on another level.

First, the welcome. My bartender was warm, patient, and generous with guidance. Honestly, since Montreal Canadians are known to be assholes and culture snobs, I didn’t know what to expect. But, there actually was no awkward language barrier. He didn’t give me attitude. Just a thoughtful conversation and help navigating a menu that overwhelmed me.

I began with a pour of the CITRAPLUS1: SUPERDELIC (6.6% – Citra, Superdelic). This was the definition of a juicy and delicious IPA.

Alongside, I ordered a batch of the POPCORN CHICKEN WITH LIME AND HONEY.

I continued with something completely new to me: a smoothie sour. The PETIT JUS DE MORT : TANGERINE + MANGUE + ABRICOT (6.0% - Smoothie Sour) was truly delicious and refreshing. Back at Foam Brewers, Josh, the head brewer, talked to me about how that brewery also does smoothie sours. But, it was a completely different and complex flavor profile. I could have multiple of those over the day and feel totally chill. It was truly interesting. Honestly, I’ve never thought about blending beer with a smoothie. But I imagine it’s the ultimate grown-up version of a sour.

I finished with what turned out to be my personal favorite of the evening: À TOI DE MOI – TO YOU FROM ME (11.9% – Stout BA – Blend of two 35-month double mash Stout barrels in Bourbon Old Elk barrel with the addition of coconut and caramel).

I can’t put this into words – this was outstanding. It’s creamy, smooth silky and a quiet barrel aged. Like it’s legit incredible. and complicated. But also, incredibly smooth and delicious.

Hands down – this was a shocker and winner at the same time.

Overall, my time at Messorem Bracitorium surprised me in the best way. The beers were inventive, the food was strong, and the vibe made it easy to sit solo without feeling awkward. It was the kind of brewery that reminded me why exploring new breweries is worth it – even if I do it solo.

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