News and Brews

It is a delightful day here on the Bay Shore. This morning’s walk to the 6 O’clock ferry was very refreshing. It apparently rained a little last night and the air had that refreshingly moist quality that follows such events. The past month at work and various family events have fully occupied my time - making a weekly column a bit of a challenge to undertake. Alas, a break from work at least is in order so let me share a few items that have been tumbling around my head these past weeks.

I have been following a few exciting trends in the American brewing scene. In particular a Wall Street Journal column on Anheuser Busch noted that the brewer is looking to craft brewed and organic products to boost its flagging sales. It seems big beer has come to realize that more and more Americans want beers that actually have some taste. In fact, the have actually started to boost the hop levels in their mainstream products as well. For more info on this interesting turn click on the following link: Anheuser-Busch Lets Ohio And New England Beer Drinkers Pick Hometown Specialty Brew . Sadly, the Big Apple and environs have not been tapped for any experimental products, but the reports that I have read online about the tasting sessions have been very intriguing. Of course this news is not without its share of controversy. Many craft beer aficionados see this as another attempt by the Great Satan to drive the craft brewers out of business. Personally, I think it is very encouraging that an American Icon is reaching out to satisfy the taste yearnings of a broader audience. The converts to these brews will no doubt include many dedicated AB product drinkers who are very brand loyal and will try these brews because they are from the folks that bring you “Bud.” Most Craft brew fans will continue to support the craft brews and imports that they already know and enjoy.

Variety is the spice of life. On a given day I have around forty to fifty different brews on hand. Some I keep cold and some I cellar for future consumption. This allows me to match a brew with my mood, a meal or a guest. This also takes up a fair bit of shelf space and has driven me to purchase more singles and fewer sixes and twelve-packs. I cannot recall the last time I purchased a case of anything. In this regard, Bob the Beer Guy, the Beer Manager of Spirits Unlimited in Red Bank has arranged a selection of brews that you can purchase as a mixed six-pack. The variety of beers available changes frequently so it is a great way to mix and match and experiment with new brews and new styles. Thanks Bob!

Stone Beers have finally arrived in New Jersey thanks to Mike Short and Hunterdon Brewing! Get thee to Spirits Unlimited in Red Bank and Middletown and stock up on Arrogant Bastard, Stone Ruination IPA and Stone IPA. I understand that other varieties will follow shortly. I was fortunate enough to score a Jeroboam of Oaked Arrogant Bastard to christen our new patio with.

Lastly, this week, in the Dining and Wine section of The New York Times, Eric Azimov has written an excellent article on Belgian Lambics. Eric is a great writer and has written several articles on different beer varieties. Eric also has a blog called The Pour where he muses about all things spirituous and gives you the chance to spout off as well.

Welcome to spring, I hope to see you around town!