Month: April 2019

Helio Basin Brewing Company, Phoenix, AZ

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I stopped in at Helio Basin Brewing Company in Phoenix, Arizona.  Taco Tuesday.  Two tacos and a core beer for $10. Yes! I love Taco Tuesday!  Blackberry Blonde is a delicious blonde ale with enough blackberry flavor to distinguish it but its not fruity.  The tacos were OUTSTANDING!  I went on to sample a few more of their beers – all wonderful.  And also enjoyed nachos.  The beers and food here are wonderful and if I could pick one place in Phoenix to have a beer and a meal this would be the place.  Also is very comfortable.  Has a great vibe.  And the bartenders were very attentive and helpful.  Great experience.  I look forward to returning the next time I’m in Phoenix.

My only regret is I didn’t get one of their cool t-shirts.

2019-04-09 19.04.57

Helton Brewing Company, Phoenix, AZ

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I stopped in at Helton Brewing Company in Phoenix, Arizona.  After scanning the tap list I decided to go with the Scotch Style.  I’d call it Scotch Ale.  With all of the attention on sours these days and the countless IPAs out there I often like to go with another style to enjoy.  This beer did not disappoint!  Ths has got to be one of the best Scotch Ales I’ve had.  And, after visiting over 600 breweries I’ve had quite a few.  I wouldn’t have thought Phoenix would be the place I’d be having such a great Scotch Ale.  I think of Phoenix with lighter beers geared toward the hot weather.  I love being surprised.  And I fully enjoyed this beer!

2019-04-07 20.39.23

Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Barrel House, Baltimore, MD

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I stopped in at Guinness Open Gate and Brewery and Barrel House with my son for a beer.  This was the first beer with my youngest son since he turned 21 and could order in public.  We enjoyed the drive to the Baltimore suburbs near BWI airport.  The brewery was quite busy on Saturday afternoon.  This was our first visit, having recommendations from close family friends.  Although we had not planned in advance and were unable to take a guided tour we did walk through a number of the exhibits self-guided.  We enjoyed sharing a burger and a flatbread in the restaurant and each had a flight of beers.  There’s nothing like Guinness draft and that was clearly my favorite.  Velvety smooth, easy to drink and easy to pair with any food.  Having one at the only US Guinness brewery was a delight.  Hopefully some day I’ll have one in Ireland.