USA, VA: Bike TrAle Brewing brings new farm brewing option to Leesburg

Bringing a new farm brewing option to Leesburg, Bike TrAle Brewing is historic downtown's newest brewery, the Loudoun Times-Mirror reported on February 23.

The sixth brewery in the downtown area, Bike TrAle is owned by Greg Perlberg of South Riding and Bruce Forbes of Leesburg. The two worked together in the defense industry for many years and always discussed the possibility of opening a business together – with a goal of doing something “fun.”

Perlberg enjoys home brewing, and when they discussed various business opportunities, opening a brewery seemed like the most logical – and fun – option.

They decided to open in a building owned by Forbes, located at 101 Loudoun St., near Market Station and across from the government center parking garage.

After extensive interior renovations, like renovating floors, plumbing and more, they were able to create a comfortable atmosphere with seating for 40 inside and 40 on the new patio.

“We wanted it to be a place where people can come in and relax for a few hours,” Perlberg said.

They chose the cycling theme – which includes bike pedals on the bar stools - due to their close proximity to the W&OD trail, as well as Perlberg's personal interest in the sport.

Forbes lives on a farm near Morven Park and has planted 150 hops plants, as well as barley and rye, to use for brewing their beer.

Perlberg serves as brewmaster. There are currently 11 beers on tap in a wide range of options – from IPAs to lagers. The current menu lists an Oktoberfest Marzen beer, Pumpkit pumpkin ale, Road Rash American red ale, Broom Wagon coffee stout, a Hefeweizen, and a Belgian Tripel Ale, along with several more.

A new addition is a Czech pilsner, which is “smooth and easy drinking,” Perlberg said. “Why pick one style when there are so many options and a wide variety of palates?”

Beers are served in flights, pints and refillable growlers.

“So far people are very pleased with the wide variety of beers on tap, and they love the atmosphere here,” Perlberg said.

Bike TrAle has planned paint and sip events, and they are looking forward to warmer temperatures this spring, when they will host a grand opening celebration event.

Bike TrAle is open Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m., Fridays from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday's from 12 to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 12 to 5 p.m.

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