Woah – Part 2

Night came and it was time to take off and go to La Trappe Night being held at The Trappist. This was my first time here, and I believe I can honestly say this is my favorite beer bar yet. Their goal is serving nothing but the finest and no corporate labels.

The Beer Week event here included serving something that isn't exactly an easy find. La Trappe Quadrupel Barrique. If there was a beer I could drink the rest of my life, this may be one of them. Much different than the La Trappe Quadrupel (standard). The Barrique is oak aged and has a flavor that isn't even close to its counterpart. Apparently I purchased the last two bottles of the night, the crowd was not pleased.

Aaron Porter, one of the owners of The Trappist looking solid.

Ray Hsieh pouring a glass of Allagash White.

While going past the bar, I spotted the modest Justin Crossley from Brewing Network and several people that I don't know.

After having a really great time and plenty to drink we headed to our second destination. On our way we stopped by Nation's. Their cheesecake was great.

So great, one of the employees wanted to model with one.

Once we got to our location, Beer Revolution, we were bedazzled with the selection here. With over 42 taps and 500 bottles to select from, overwhelming would hardly describe their selection. Since they were hosting an event for Moonlight Brewing and had a few exclusives on tap, my choice was easier to narrow down.

Sadly though, this place closes really early. That just enticed us for a another round at The Trappist, which I was more than glad to accept. First thing I noticed when I walked in the door was this very familiar back piece off Nicolai's work shirt.

The Maltose Falcons. One of California's largest Home Brew Clubs, perhaps even the largest. These folks have been around since 1974. True rebels, since home brewing wasn't legal until 1979. Breaking the law to do something they love. I got a chance to hang out and talk shop with a few of them and just after talking for a few minutes I felt like I'd known them for years because of how friendly they all were. These Falcons are fine by me.

Nicolai and Drew full of chivalry.

Sir G.

The whole gang.

What a day.

Woah – Part 1

Today is the day, SF Beer Week. This 10 day long event spans from Santa Cruz to Santa Rosa. All the local bars, breweries, and even home brew stores get together and host several events across 100 miles. Pulling out all their rarities and special label beers during this time makes the trip worthwhile to many. Although I missed the first half of the event, I was still fortunate enough to make it to the last few days.

On our way out of Santa Cruz we started out at Seven Bridges Co-op. Since I don't have a home brew store in my area, I'm usually ordering online or holding out till I can go here. The staff here are really helpful and always offer great brewing advice.

Then it was off to Doug's house in Berkeley. He wasn't just our host/place to stay for the night. He was our personal navigator. Trying to get around on the BART for the first time was far from easy. Doug simplified this process by holding our hands and showing us the ropes.

Pat and Hollyn stopped by to sample a handful of beers I made last year to help decide some things for an upcoming project. These two love birds are getting married this year in August, which is very exciting to say the least. Pat came to me a couple months ago with a lot of faith and an idea for me to make some beers for their wedding. This will be my biggest request to date and although I'm really nervous but equally as anxious and will be looking forward to this.

We’re Off

Tonight we're in Santa Cruz en route to SF Beer Week.

We stayed with one of my best friends, Ryan.

Ryan took us out to one of his go-to bars, The Red Room. It's a pretty cool place with a good atmosphere. For some reason smoking is still tolerated in-doors here, even though its technically not legal.

After the night settled, Ryan cooked us some weird vegetable dish that was surprisingly really good.

To the Point

Now-a-days, blogging seems even more dorky that a few years ago. With Twitter, Tumblr, and all the other individual commentary outlets, having a blog feels kind of dated. But, in the end I feel like there is a little more expression in this format and hope to please whoever decides to stop by.

To be honest, I really want to write about my experiences with beer. I've been home brewing and bottle collecting for the past few years and like most home brewers/craft beer lovers, it has turned from hobby to passion. Some may not understand what that means, so hopefully through reading/following me, you'll come to realize how vast and great the world of beer really is.

Easy Going

Originally I had no plans. Today was the first Saturday in a long while I had time to wind down. But when I got a call from Travis to let me know there was barbecue and a garage show, my plans changed.

We hung out cliff side, barbecued, and did the watch the sunset thing. And boy, was it beautiful. Its usually somewhat surreal when I see some of my more offensive friends admiring natural beauty. Scenic sunsets and horny guys.

When the sun went down, we went to the Biko House.

Walking towards the venue, I was greeted by a group of runts. They were a couple of Isla Vista locals causing trouble by booby trapping the street with tree limbs so unsuspecting drivers, cyclists, and skateboarders would run them over and meet their demise. I liked these kids. Growing up in a college town, only knowing destruction and loud party music can't be easy living. But when Saturday comes, its time to hang out and watch people fall.

Jan in a trash can. Duh.

Downpresser, making out with friends and shredding.

Danny being fresh as always.