January 29, 2004

Beer in the Pac NW

I've never been invited to be a tasting judge, but I've got no small experience with beer: tasting tours in several countries, plenty of trips to microbreweries during a 10-year stint in the SF Bay area, and hands-on brewing experience. The breadth of beer styles and varieties available in the bottle and on tap in the Pacific NW, especially in Seattle and Portland, is simply breathtaking. Beer is appreciated like wine here, and that is one of the most pleasant discoveries that I've made since moving here.

It's true that brewers on the US west coast and the Pac NW tend to brew heavier, sweeter, hoppier beers. If you're a fan of pilsner to the exception of all else, you will have to search a bit for something local that will please your palate. I recommend starting with some of the local "blonde" beers -- Hales Drawbridge Blonde is my current favorite. I think that Red Hook makes one also. Hales also makes an absolutely spectacular cream ale that may be to your liking -- worth seeking out on tap.

I'm a bit confused, though, as you profess to dislike hops and prefer malt flavors, as pilsners are typically characterized by a strong hop taste and little if any sweetness. Pilsner Urquell is a widely-available brand that's a good example of the standard.

You may enjoy the selection of German beer on tap at Prost (7311 Greenwood Ave.) in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood. Lots of sweet, unhoppy suds.

Posted by Cameron at January 29, 2004 10:54 AM