"We just auctioned off all the assets we acquired from the Italian restaurant with the building last week and will begin gutting inside in two weeks," he said. "We bought the old Independence Brewhouse and will install that. We have not chosen a brewer yet but will before the opening. It is likely to be done internally from one of our current brewing staff." The new site is scheduled to open in May.

As for the Lambics, Edelson said they will be bottled and released for the holidays with the date and scheduled release date to be announced this coming week. "We have six different medals now, between GABF and World Beer Cup, for our Lambic ales so I think there is demand for them among the real beer connoisseurs."

Iron Hill plans to open six additional pubs by 2011, according to a news release sent our vie email last week. Edelson acknowledged to The Beer Yard today that "if it wasn't for the current economic situation and our need to remain cautious, I could tell you right now that we would be opening a second site in 2009. For the moment, we'll see how the fourth quarter goes and them make a decision."

He added that a Philadelphia Iron Hill is not out of the question but unlikely at this point. "If the right situation or deal presented itself, we would certainly look at it. But, to be honest, because of the price of real estate and the opportunities to become a real part of the community, the suburbs fit our business model just right."--JACK CURTIN