@ thebeerverse . Oct 30

Yes, indeed they are.

Thrilled to report that my good friends @armisticebeer have finally realized a long-planned dream — the opening of their new taproom @armisticebeer.napa!

The “official” Grand Opening was the next day, but Alex (one-half of the sibling duo than run the place) told me many friends from Richmond made the trip up to help them celebrate early. Indeed, the atmosphere was festive and the beer was plentiful.

So, my best pro-tip — after a day enjoying the beauty and delicious wines of Napa Valley, cleanse your palate with a stop at Armistice Napa. And it’s an easy walk to Downtown, so there’s tons to do close by if want to continue the party.

Congrats, Alex and Gregory! So glad you’ve finally made this day happen! 🍻

@ thebeerverse . Oct 16

The beer is good in E’ville.

Finally checked @wondrousbrewing off the list. Nice upscale touches add some polish to the typical industrial taproom setting. And the beer was all first-rate, cleanly made and effortless to drink. The standout, among many, was the award-winning Janet’s Brown Ale, their version of the recipe created by the industry’s beloved Tasty McDole. Nutty, rich, and hoppy. Perfect.

A 10-minute walk away is @tenmabeerproject. Now, technically, this is just on the Oakland side of the border. Also, technically, I’ve been here before, in its former incarnation as Novel Brewing.

Tenma has definitely put their stamp here, moving from the literary ethos of Novel to a more DIY, clubby vibe, complete with black walls and ceilings.

Especially tasty was the Pulsewidth Modulation, a crisp and bitey West Coast IPA. Snappy hops and a clean finish. Although I’m sorry I didn’t try the Don’t Fear the Answer, a Pilsner that snagged them a bronze medal at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival!

No end a great beer to enjoy here in the Bay. Cheers, y’all! #craftbeer #bayareacraftbeer

@ thebeerverse . Aug 21

Might be my last go ‘round at the Coliseum. In an ugly performance even for them, the @athletics lost to the O’s 12-1. At least we left before Sweet Caroline came on.

At least the beer didn’t disappoint. The @drakesbeer stand was right by our section, and I got to enjoy their Iceman Cold IPA. Very quenching on a steamy day at the ballpark.

While it might not be the prettiest place in the world, the Coliseum always feels like and old friend that I catch up with every now and again. Whatever comes to pass, I’m gonna miss this place.

#baseball #craftbeer

@ thebeerverse . Jul 30

Spent a little time in South Lake Tahoe recently, hadn’t been there for quite a while. Spectacular as always, even a little snow left on the highest peaks. Although we stayed in a construction zone (the Lake Tahoe Resort will soon become Margaritaville Lake Tahoe), it was actually fine, and you can’t beat the location. Right on the state line, Harrah’s was just steps from the lobby.

Of course had to do a little “research” while I was there. First stop was @southofnorthbrewing, again just steps from the state line, across the street from Harvey’s. It’s basically the house restaurant of the newly restored mid-century @basecamphotels South Lake. Perfectly chill vibe, even though it’s just a block off the main drag. The Porter and Amber were highlights.

Also stopped at @southlakebrewco Libation Lodge, a recently opened outpost right next to Heavenly Village. First, you can’t beat the flight presentation, which is surprisingly easy to carry to your table.

Beers were amazingly clean, although the IPAs leaned just a touch on the sweet side. Would have liked a smidge more bitterness. But this is picking nits, these are well done. Their Ales for ALS Cold IPA and Barrett Brown were standouts.

Their original location is a few miles way at the “Y” (if you’re a local, you know), but I was very, very happy this new taproom was just blocks from my hotel.

From what I’m reading people are still fleeing California. I say good, let ‘em. More room for the rest of us. Cheers, y’all! #southlaketahoe