Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Okay, So I Lied

How did I lie? Not really a lie but I did mention a couple of things in my previous posts that I have not followed through with...

My intention was to write a new blog post each week and I've fallen far short of that. October to January? Not exactly once a week. I also closed my last post with a promise that the next post would be about Cuban cigars. I have collected a few Cuban's in preparation but I thought I would share my latest adventure first...

The San Diego craft beer industry has been growing by leaps and bounds in recent years. With Stone leading the way, a number a breweries have sprung up all over the county. The highest concentration seems to be in North County so I thought I'd take a road trip.

It took me three weekends to visit all of the breweries on my list. Not because there are so many but because of logistics. I planned on stopping at Stone on the day before Thanksgiving but I arrived too late and the place was packed. So I drove up the road to The Lost Abbey and was not disappointed.

Lost Abbey
Located in Stone's old facility, Port Brewing has created a haven for fans of Belgian ales. The staff was very knowledgeable and friendly and I even met one of the pastors who participated in the blessing of the water for their brews. I was able to taste an Old Viscosity and an Older Viscosity. Essentially the same beer but Older is aged in Bourbon Barrels. Quite a difference. Both beers are fantastic! As you may know, those are two Port Brewing American Strong Ales. You may also be aware that Lost Abbey is part of the Port Brewing Family that also includes Pizza Port. Quite a family!

On January 22, 2011 you can tour their new expansion. They are doubling in size! A visit to Lost Abbey is well worth the trip. You won't be disappointed. The brewery was decorated for the holiday.


In the next installment I'll tell you about my trip to Stone Brewing Company and World Bistro.

4 comments:

  1. Dale, I just have a quick recommendation on a beer we tried at Alcatraz Brewing (The Block) while we were down having a good time on New Years Eve. Not sure how much they made, but it was one of their limited batch productions called "Hop Goddess". There is an extra surcharge for the amount of hops in this one, some might say it contains more than "hops" if you know what I mean. Drop by and try a pint!

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  2. I haven't been there yet. I'll have to check it out. Thanks.

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  3. Guess it turns out to be three in the family when i thought it was two breweries. Need to take a visit to north SD count, like you said, lots out there that it would be great to take a drive.

    Been expecting new posts from you. I thought I had already subscribed to the blog, but I've done it again.

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  4. Actually, there are multiple Pizza Ports who have their own brewmasters who develop their own brews. Quite a variety.

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