There is nothing, absolutely nothing, better after a lengthy wine seminar or elaborate tasting than a delicious, refreshing craft beer. While professionals and fans of craft beer are undoubtedly stoked for Vancouver Craft Beer Week, I can guarantee you that those in the wine trade ain’t far behind. This week, I hop over to the beer side of things, sharing eight of my favourite cold ones around town.
Driftwood Fat Tug IPA | DriftwoodBeer.com
It could just be me, but it seems that any place that has a minimum of eight taps is likely to carry the Fat Tug? I often wonder why it’s just so darn popular. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely adore this beer, but I’d think that it’s seven per cent booziness and not-shy-at-all assault of hoppiness wouldn’t be everyone’s jam, but its rampant success in our market seems to prove that a lot of us like our beers bold. Loads of grapefruit here; delicious with Asian cuisine.
Driftwood Farmhand Saison | DriftwoodBeer.com
The wee bit of sour mash used in the brewing of this aromatic ale makes it lively and refreshing, but it’s that crack of black pepper in the mix that gives it a lively snap. Bright and friendly, this is my go to when tackling local artisan cheeses.
Phillips Bottle Rocket ISA | PhillipsBeer.com
While I like my beer hoppy, I’m not always into these ever-climbing alcohol percentages found in a slew of local craft beers. This India Session Ale has all of the citrus and spice flavor, it clocks in at a nice and even 5 per cent alcohol, so you won’t feel exhausted after knockin’ a couple back.
Central City Red Racer ISA | CentralCityBrewing.com
For the same reasons as the Bottle Rocket, this ISA is truly a session ale that chimes in at a mere four per cent. If you’re not as into the hops as others, this brew’s flavours are a lot more subtle and even-handed, shining with tropical fruit.
R & B Brewing East Side Bitter | R-and-B.com
For a North American take on a traditional British bitter, these East Vancouver craft beer veterans unleash plenty of mocha and clove notes while keeping the finish good and refreshing.
R & B Brewing ‘Chef Series’ Nettle, Mint & Ginger | R-and-B.com
This. Beer. Is. Crazy. Crazy good, mind you, as part of R & B’s new collaboration with local chefs. This outing is in tandem with Forage’s chef Chris Whittaker and, yup, it tastes like all of those things. A great conversation piece, serve it as an aperitif when friends pop over for dinner.
Brassneck Brewery Brassneck Ale | Brassneck.ca
OK, I live a block and a half from Brassneck Brewery, so close that my wife and I refer to our visits there as “heading downstairs.” While I’m a fan of everything of their ever-changing chalkboard, it’s this steady-handed balance of hops and malt that’s in my glass most often. A nice little dab of toffee on the finish. Available brewery-only.
33 Acres Brewing ‘33 Acres of Life’ California Common | 33AcresBrewing.com
A few blocks from Brassneck Brewery is the slick and stylish 33 Acres, where their ‘California Common’ seems to be the crowd favourite. Fruity, toasty and hops that aren’t too intense make this an easy one to quaff on long summer days.
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