Nestled in the Connecticut River Valley of Central Vermont and sharing a river border with Hanover New Hampshire lays the vibrant and historic town of Norwich Vermont. Settled in 1763 Norwich prospered and grew to become a stop along the North / South travel route through Vermont. In 1797 The Norwich Inn became the lodging facility of choice. Lost to fire in the late 1880's a "new" Victorian Structure, was built and opened in 1890, that building still operates today as The Norwich Inn - a full service country inn. In recent years they have added a brewery next door called Jasper Murdock's Ale House and Microbrewery.
I had the opportunity to stay and dine in the very popular Norwich Inn and Jasper Murdock's Alehouse and Microbrewery recently. As we toured the facility I was amazed at the wondrous wine cellar located directly beneath the main lobby. Fascinated to know the beer they brew is literally piped under the side driveway into the Alehouse.
The spirits brewing next door should not be confused with the spirits that occasionally visit the halls upstairs. Although I am a true wine lover, I had to sample two of the Ales on tap. I chose two of the "lighter" versions. First
Picked Pale Ale and Second Wind Oatmeal Stout. Let me say that I expected to prefer the Ale, which had a pale color over the richer darker stout. I was mistaken. These were both outstanding brews - the stout had a sweetness with a hint of caramel. The Whistling Pig Red Ale and the Old Slipperyskin India Pale Ale were said to have a stronger flavor. The ales and stout were hopping along with the Ales house itself. A lively brew pub tucked to the left of main lobby.
Spirits aside, I was hungry. This was promptly remedied with a very efficient and lovely young server names Courtney. She was very well informed about the menu and answered all of our questions. We started with Asian Potstickers and the Norwich Inn Crab Cake. Both were entirely different and equally outstanding. We were told the Inn is known for Crab Cakes and now we understand why. On to Broiled Wild Striped Bass, which had a mild leek flavoring a long with a cilantro touch served over delicious Green Tea Rice. Our other selection is the Ribeye Steak with rosemary Stilton butter, Grilled Zucchini and Smashed Yukon Potatoes. At this point we were totally having a great time. Then, dessert. Save room as these are not to be missed. Triple Chocolate, Chocolate cake layered with dark chocolate mousse & covered in ganache. The other was a dessert they are famous for, Two Ice Cream Stuffed Cream Puff with Chocolate Ganache and whipped cream. The desserts and appetizers were generous enough to share. Overall an exceptional value and memorable experience. Dinner at the Norwich Inn was delicious, relaxing, pleasant and well presented. There are several separate dining areas on the main floor of the inns.
We retired to our room in the new, adjacent, "Walker House" building. The "Walker House" is named after roaring 20's owner Ma Walker who allegedly served bootleg to students from nearby Dartmouth College. The gas fireplace took the chill off nicely. The rooms are comfortably furnished, quiet, and private. The solar powered roof panels make this an ecoThe staff from the moment we walked in were welcoming, gracious and helpful. I was very impressed with my stay at The Norwich Inn and highly recommend you pay them a visit. We certainly look forward to returning in the future.
© 2012 
