My friend Karen writes a regular column called Will Travel for Words. Recently, I was reflecting on trips I have taken (as one does when discussions begin to turn to summer vacation) and realized that if I were to write a travel column it would be titled, Will Travel for Beer.
In case you feel like taking an ale-inspired sojourn this summer, here are some of my favorite destinations:
Denver, Colorado is of course widely known as a premier beer destination. I’ve been twice for the Great American Beer Festival. (Think mammoth convention center full of beer from around the country. You could go for 10 years and not sample it all). My favorite beer bar there is Euclid Hall and last time I visited I had a great time about an hour outside the city in Longmont at Left Hand Brewing. Their Good Juju is one of my all time favorites.
Asheville, North Carolina has equally strong beer clout. In my experience, it took a bit of time to find the smaller, more off the beaten path breweries that the city is known for. However I’m more of a wanderer than a researcher when I travel, so I’m certain a bit of prep would get you to the right places straight away. Green Man Brewery was my favorite, for their solid beers served with locally made Lusty Monk mustard and a snack bag of pretzels. No muss, no fuss. I would also recommend Burial, Hi-Wire and Wicked Weed. (If you like vegetarian food and the concept of paying-it-forward for folks in need of a meal, throw Rosetta’s Kitchen on that list, too).
Sometimes you just need a quick beer getaway and for me Blue Mountain Brewery in Nelson county is quick fix for beer wanderlust. The patio at sunset is amazing, as is the pizza with locally sourced toppings. Beer, pizza and a mountain view – not much more a girl could want. At least not this one.
Where are you travelling this summer (for beer or otherwise)? Let me know about it in the comments below. (And if travel for words is more your thing, check out Karen’s posts.)
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Thanks for sending me on a fantastic beer junket this morning, even if only vicariously. I love the Full Nelson by Blue Mountain. I tried it because it shares the name of a a wrestling hold — as a boxer and wrestler it jumped out of the beer case and into my cart — but the generous hops kept me coming back. I need to go out there and have one on the patio!
You’re welcome! The Full Nelson is an excellent beer – tastes even better on that patio.
You’re a doll! Thank you so much for the shout out. After reading this post of yours, it is confirmed… We must do a beer trip together. And soon. Maybe down to Charlottesville? Up to DC? Let the planning commence.
Don’t forget, too, that here in Richmond, our favorite James River Writers is hosting a Books&Brews bus-driven tour of craft beer makers. It’s not just for literary folks, but the stories will be endless. July 12th: http://www.jamesriverwriters.org/what-we-do/programs/books-brews
Sure thing! And yes, a beer trip would be fabulous. I made a note on my calendar about the Books & Brews tour — clearly an event close to my heart.
We’ll find a way to make a getaway then, if I don’t make the Books&Brews tour. (Watch for the new logo soon to be announced for it–I did it.)
I feel a strong need to go on a drinking themed vacation with you! Very soon.
Yes, lets do it!
Reading this made me thirsty for beer at 8:30 in the morning 😉 I wish I could say Andy and I are travelling for beer. For now, we’ll have to settle for the many great breweries here in town. I’m anxious to try Triple Crossing next! You’ll have to let me know when you and Michael visit!
Haha! Oops, sorry about that … 🙂 Luckily, we have lots of great beer close to home — so it’s easy to take little mini beer “vacations” without leaving home. Triple Crossing is super, super close to us. Will definitely keep you posted about our next trip there.