Beer Journey

[samb]

When i first turned of age, i was pretty into craft beers and trying different ones and learning about them. Then, i got into wine. I stayed with wine a few years, and still drink a few glasses most days (started to drink homemade wine too, but not really in the hobby sense, just fermented welchs).

Lately my enjoyment of beer has been macrobrews and for a nice buzz. However, in an effort to stop drinking all the empty carbs and to actually really enjoy beer, ive decided to expand my beer horizons. I dont really remeber what i like, other than american adjuct lager, so i plan to just try different stuff, like a 6 pack a week or so, as to keep the cost and consumption down. Ill take recommendations, info, thoughts, opinions, or nothing at all, lol. Just wanna keep somewhat of a log of different beers to try.

 

[99TRILLS]

If you like marzens/Oktoberfest beers, I'm enjoying the surly surlyfest right now

 

[ChipS]

For the past few years i've gravitated towards craft beer more than anything else and make it a point to try some of the local/regional craft brews when I travel. My tastes tend toward a malt forward beer and tend to stay away from the classic American lagers and IPAs. Bear in mind I am a far cry from an expert (on much of anything) and do not chase the super secret special edition beers. Some of my favorites are:

Arizona - Kilt Lifter by Four Peaks. This is a Scottish ale that is only available around AZ and is one of my all time favorites. I've been known to pack a few cases in checked luggage.
Louisiana - Abita makes an Imperial Stout that is fantastic. It is aged in bourbon barrels and always leaves me wanting a few more. Honorable mention goes to Turbodog which is a solid brown ale and Purple Haze if you are in the mood for something funky.
Pacific Northwest - Mac & Jack's Amber Ale - While it won't knock your socks off, it is a pretty good Amber ale. I always have one or two when I'm in Seattle.
Texas - Revolver Blood and Honey - This is a light, refreshing wheat beer with a touch of honey.
Hawaii - Honolulu Beerworks has several beers that I've enjoyed, if you are on the island it's worth checking out. I'm not a huge fan of the Kona Brewing beers.
Colorado - New Belgium 1554 if you want something on the darker side, was my goto beer for a long time and readily available all over the place in Colorado. New Belgiums Fat Tire is a pretty decent Amber. Bristol Brewings Laughing Lab is another one I enjoy that's widely available in CO. It is listed as a Scottish Ale though I think it fits closer to the American Amber category.
All over - Stone Smoked Porter - solid smoked porter, it is what you would expect. They also make one whith Chipolte if you want a kick.
Ommegang 3 Philosophers - Belgian quad - it's strong, dark, sweet and delicious.

Often when I'm enjoying a glass of beer it's being paired with a fine cigar. In my experience IPAs and cigars don't tend to mix well so you'll notice my list doesn't include anything on the hoppier side. If anyone has any good IPA/cigar pairings I'm all ears.

 

[ZippoGeek]

Ommegang 3 Philosophers - Belgian quad - it's strong, dark, sweet and delicious

My favorite beer, hands down! At almost 10% ABV, drink 2 of these on an empty stomach and you'll need to strap on a helmet...

 

[usmcpurcell]

I've been a huge fan of DuClaw Retribution lately!!

 

[samb]

My experience with stouts is limited to Guinness, which I don't care much for. This is entirely different and much better! Tastes like a creamy coffee to me.