I realized as I typed the title of today’s news post that it’s “7/11” and immediately thought of the convenience store chain. Nothing to do with actual beer news, of course, but you get a free small Slurpee today if you stop in (check out the beer). In the meantime, here’s the Oregon beer news for Thursday, July 11. As usual, I’ll be periodically updating this post throughout the day with the latest news, so check back often. If you have news to share, please contact me and I can get that posted as well.

McMenamins Edgefield (Troutdale) has a special beer release today starting at 5pm, dubbed The Downward Spiral. “A new incarnation of the classic Black Rabbit Porter, aged with an oak spiral and fortified with White Owl Whiskey and Edgefield Distillery’s Coffee Liqueur. Vanilla, chocolate, and coffee dominate this decadent creation. Perfect way to end the night… or start it.” Yum!

The Green Dragon (Portland) is hosting Bend’s Deschutes Brewery for a special meet the brewer and tasting event tonight, starting at 5pm. Brewmaster Cam O’Connor will be on hand to talk about and answer questions about the beer, and they’ve got a nice taplist lined up: “We’ll have Deschutes Brewery Black Butte XXIII, XXIV and XXV. See Cam O’Connor describe Black Butte XXV! The Stoic and Geant Blond – Sour Specialty Ale also on tap.” The tapping starts at 5pm and the meet the brewer at 6.

McMenamins Fulton Pub & Brewery (Portland) is pouring a special beer today—a shandy. “This golden-hued ale uses Cascade hops in modest amounts to create a subtle flavor and bitterness. It is then infused with the refreshing lemonade before making its way to your pint glass. The combination is citrusy, slightly sweet, and sure to refresh!” The special pour starts at 5pm and lasts until the beer is gone.