Untappd

I have been using an app on my phone for the last few months called Untappd.  Think of it like Facebook for craft beer lovers.  You enter the beers you drink.  You can see the beers your friends are drinking.  If you like what they are drinking, you can toast it ... like Liking on FB.  You can also comment on their beers.

When you check in a beer, you can add a location.  It uses locations that are defined on Four Square, so probably most of your favorite drinking locations are already defined.  I joined Four Square so I could define a location for my house when I check in beers at home.  Since it was defined as a private residence, nobody else can figure out where you live!  Just in case you were paranoid about that.

Here is a great description of the product from the authors:

About Untappd: “Untappd is a new way to socially share and explore the world of beer with your friends and the world. Curious what your friends are drinking or where they’re hanging out? Just check their profile where you can toast and comment on their beers! Untappd will offer you beer recommendations based on what you and your friends have been enjoying, so you’ll have no reason to not try something new! As additional encouragement, Untappd allows you to earn a number of cool badges for completing a variety of different criteria.” – Untappd.com

The badges are really fun.  The first few come easy.  You get a badge just for entering your first beer.  Then there are badges based on locations, types of beers and special occasions.  Hint: Enter a beer on practically any holiday or special day ... except Easter.  I guess that isn't a traditional beer drinking day :)

You can get started at untappd.com and then get the app for your phone!