That’d be me. Getting off my arse is admittedly hard at times, and we have only to thank all those emails griping about the lack of blogging. I used to read a lot more blogs than I do now too. So, back to the wonders or reading and writing.
There is a lot more beer around now than there ever was. Craft is hot, is what it is. I’ve been doing this stuff for twelve years now, but this past year is really the pinnacle from what I have seen. Such public interest, and such a response from breweries. Everything is Imperial now. Things that should never be imperial are now imperial! Take the most popular and refreshing style of them all: pilsners. A pilsner should be brisk, clean and with or without a good hop bite depending on what you feel like drinking now. It could be earthy, and maybe even a little tangy, but should it be really sweet and strong? Never! I don’t care who makes it, even as a novelty I don’t like it. I’ve never tried a good one, be it Rogue, Dogfish Head or anyone else’s.
What I do like is a tasty Marzen or Oktoberfest style beer. Those Germans know how to brew. We are in the right season for my first love, so I say take advantage of it. A little sweet, a little strong, but a very refreshing and delicious style when done right. Spaten, Hacker-Pschorr, Paulaner, they are all good! Go for it.