I stopped in at Strangeways Brewing in Richmond, Virginia and sampled two of their sour beers (which they are widely known for). Their Uberlin Berliner Weisse Sour was delightfully crisp and tart with hints of fruity flavors. The Bartlett and Bosc Pear O.T.I.S. was deliciously pear-flavored, tangy and refreshing. On a warm summer day these sours will be perfectly refreshing.
I stopped in at The Answer Brewpub in Richmond, Virginia for lunch and a beer. The Obey Berliner Weisse beer was crisp, tart and delicious. I felt it paired beautifully with the pork belly Bahn Mi. Obey your thirst! This is a great place to stop for delicious food and delicious beer.
I stopped in at Napa Smith Brewery in Napa, California and tasted their beers. My favorite of all was the Bourbon Barrel Aged Hop Java. This coffee ale tasted rich and delicious aged in bourbon barrels. Very nicely done! Worth the stop.
I stopped in at Heretic Brewing Company in Fairfield, California for a beer. I tasted the Evil Twin Red IPA which was extremely good. But I wanted something different so I went with the CHP Chocolate Hazelnut Porter. Such a smooth, malty, sweet drink. Perfect to end the evening. It really delivered.
I stopped in at Downtown Joes Brewery & Restaurant in Napa, California for dinner and a beer. I enjoyed blackened cod fish tacos for dinner – very tasty – paired with the Triple Dog Dare Triple IPA. Fortunately I went with a half pour because this beer clocks in at over 13% alcohol. It’s tasty but its strong.
I stopped in at Sonoma Springs Brewing Company in Sonoma, California to try a beer. Looking at the tap list my eyes went directly to Daedalus – Barrel Aged Rye in Whiskey. Considering I enjoy both beer and whiskey, this was delicious. If you enjoy both of these flavors I definitely recommend this beer.
I stopped in at Carneros Brewing Company in Sonoma, California to try their beer. Looking over the selection I decided to go with something different. I tried the Sangre De Naranja Tart (barrel aged sour). What a delicious and refreshing beer. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also tasted the Baluberry X-Tra Pale Ale which was also tasty.
I stopped in at Petaluma Hills Brewing Company in Petaluma, California. Their Line & Twine IPA is delicious!
Stopping in at Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California, is a real treat. I have been thinking about Pliny the Elder all week. And, he did not disappoint! When you think Double IPA, Pliny is essentially what anything else is compared to. Its awesome. Hoppy, Smooth, Strong. I paired it with the Clipper pizza (pesto, mozzarella, artichoke hearts and bacon) which made for a fantastic lunch. If you are in Northern California you simply MUST stop in at Russian River Brewing Company.
I stopped in at Huss Brewing Company in Phoenix, Arizona to try their beers. I enjoyed a flight. That’ll Do IPA is just fine. Koffee Kolsch is a crisp, lighter beer with a delightful coffee taste. My least favorite was Sour Hussy, but I may not have been in the mood for it. The Barrel Aged Rise of Rio was very nice and the Husstler Milk Stout was creamy – on nitro – smooth and tasty. I love the mason jars they serve their beer in – bought one for my wife.
I Stop For Hops 