What I've been drinking lately

Recently turning 40, I have been given lots of wonderful gifts and thankfully a good amount of great beers. Seeing how this also is the 30th anniversary of Sierra Nevada Brewery and just over 20 years for North Coast Brewing Company, I thought I would pay respect to two of my favorite breweries in the world.

First off I have to say that I have tried the this beer three times already and I'm contemplating buying a case if I can get my hands on one. What is it you ask, none other than the first of the four anniversary collaboration beers from Sierra Nevada Brewery, the Fritz (Maytag of Anchor Steam) and Ken (Grossman of Sierra Nevada of course) Pioneers Stout! I have not tried the draft version yet, but the 20 or so ounce cork topped bottle has been enjoyed on several occasions. This malty, sweet and slightly hoppy concoction should not be part of any drinking "session" by any means but rather enjoyed in a proper beer glass with a few friends who appreciate quality crafted beer. At 9.2% alcohol, this beer will get you feeling warm in no time and goes well with smoked or grilled meats or by itself of course. This being the first of the four collaborations, you shouldn't hesitate if you get a chance to try this, you won't be sorry.

http://www.sierra30.com/#/fritz-and-ken-s-ale

Next we head a bit further up the State of California to North Coast Brewing Company. For my above mentioned Birthday, I was give a bottle of the 20th Anniversary Ale. This pale and lightly hopped Belgian style ale came in at a whopping 12.5% alcohol, but was well balanced enough that I thought that the amount of alcohol didn't overpower the complexities of flavors. The balance of flavors are probably partly due in part to the aging in oak barrels which has a tendency to mellow out some harsh flavors and subdue the alcohol taste. This brew I'm afraid may be harder to come by though, as the production was limited and may be available only at their brewery, but if you happen to visit the beautiful Northern California coast town of Fort Bragg then you are in for a treat. For more info on either of these beers please visit their websites and as always, keep supporting local and craft breweries!

http://www.northcoastbrewing.com/beer-Twentieth-Anniversary-Ale.htm


Cheers,
G