“Fizzy, Yellow Beer” Is Not Your Enemy

I read an article at craftbeer.com titled, '“Fizzy, Yellow Beer” Is Not Your Enemy'.  The paragraph that really made think was:

So what is the core ideal of the craft beer revolution? It’s the idea that beer lovers should have the freedom to make their own purchasing decisions, from the largest variety of beers available, with as much information as possible about the companies who make the beer.

As craft beer drinkers, we often make fun of and scoff at the major commercial beer brands.  Yet, for myself, I will drink those beers when there isn't a better option available or at a location where the commercial beer is a much better value.

It is because of the giant beer companies that there are large distributors who also will carry the other smaller beer brands.  We get craft beer from around the country because they already have the resources to make it happen.  We wouldn't have Founders beer in Texas otherwise.

Enjoy your craft beers! Have some fun with your friends who enjoy the major commercial beers, but don't alienate them over their choice. After all, drinking good beer is SO much better with friends.

Rails and Ales

This past weekend Joe and I drove to Alamosa for Rails and Ales - a beer festival up in the hills accessible via a vintage train.

But the night before we got on the train, we hit the local brewery: San Luis Valley Brewing Company.  Here's Joe's flight.

Only two out of the bunch that I wouldn't order again.  After we ate (and drank a bit more), we joined the crowd out on the street.  Hello block party!

The next morning we walked over to the depot and boarded the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad for a day trip up to La Veta pass.  Once at the meadow, the 1,000 or so passengers were greeted by about 30 beer tents, BBQ and some great music.  The weather was incredible (almost as good as the scenery and beer, itself).  We spent the afternoon sampling beer from about 20 Colorado micro and nano breweries we'd never even heard of.  Let me tell you...there are some folks making some really good beers out there!  Late in the afternoon, it was time to board the train again and head back down the hill.  What a great day...and something we'll do again next year!

All aboard!

We got tickets on the Calumet Car.  Very retro and stylish!

Joe, he's such a badass

Here's the front of the train

Beer service in our car

Views of the valley and the festival

When we got back to Alamosa, we had a huge Mexican food feast, and then slept like the dead.  

It was a fun weekend, and you can be sure that we now have several sixes of SLV brews in our beer fridge!

You Can Do It

I saw this picture and realized, yes, all beer drinkers can accomplish a 6 pack!

So, work hard and "earn" that 6 pack!!