Mix it up

If variety is the spice of life then the mix pack is as spicy as it gets in the beer world. Assorted 12-packs have become incredibly popular with craft brewers and drinkers alike. One of the most exciting things about craft beer is the exhaustive number of beers available to beerdoes. While there are plenty …

A canned debate

Canned beer is the epitome of crap beer. Or at least that's how most people see it. In fact, cans have major benefits over bottled beer. It is just that the expense and size of canning systems have long made canned beer an unreasonable option for smaller, quality brewers. Fortunately this is changing. Canning systems …

Stingo in fall

As pumpkin beers and fall seasonals flood the shelves, for me, this time of year is really only marked by one beer, Samuel Smith's Yorkshire Stingo. This unique brew is released only on August 1, Yorkshire Day. This holiday is exactly what it sounds like, a day that honors the county of Yorkshire, where Samuel …

Beer and Bloating in Las Vegas

Tourism is about personal style. Some people want to see all of the landmarks. Others just want to relax poolside with a drink in hand. Las Vegas is unique in that allows each person to find what they are looking for out of their trip. Whether it is sitting in a Parisian cafe, taking a …

A hop yard of our own

For thousands of years, herbs and spices were used to preserve beer and balance the sweetness of barley malt. These days this role is played by hops which has natural anti-bacterial properties, appealing aromas, and a bitterness that helps counteract malt's sweet flavors. The hop plant has been known since (at least) Roman times. The …

Pioneers of Pale Ale

Since we are in the midst of American Craft Beer Week (May 13-19), this week I have been thinking of craft beer's origin story. While there are countless people who have contributed to the movement, American craft beer was really founded by three people, one hop and one beer style: pale ale. Those cascades though …

Feasting with Brasserie Solera

If you’ve visited Third Window Brewing Co. in the past you’ve likely seen the small shack in the back area. Since opening, the tiny barn-like building has remained empty and staff and regulars have jokingly referred to it as everything from the play fort to the doghouse. It was intended to be a kitchen however …