The Hop Vault, Stourbridge

Interesting addition to the Stourbridge drinking scene. From my conversation with the barman, it started off as a bottle shop just as covid struck and then they added in the bar. Racks (and racks) of cans, bottles from UK Craft Brewers and German/Belgian traditional and more unusual. Some previously unseen mixed fermentation 750ml bottles from Deya provide an indication of how unusual the selection is. Front facing bar with a keg wall (about 10) and three cask. Some ciders. Looked like a reasonably varied spirits selection, with Whisky getting its own list. I went for a Christmas Delirium - which they are prepared to serve in pints to those with deep pockets and nothing else to do for the rest of the afternoon. A comfortable experience and I will be re-visiting.

I really liked this bottle shop/bar. The two young staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about all the beers. I initially went for the Verdant I Remember Having One, which was an excellent cask ale. I also perused around the bottle and can selection and went for a can of Deya, whilst Mrs A went for a bottle of Three Tuns Cleric's Cure. Once you choose a can or bottle, they take the equivalent beer and serve it to you straight from the cold room behind the bar. This bottle shop definitely had the biggest selection of beers and ciders I've seen in recent years, well worth a visit.