Brian Cook Presents

I didn’t finish my first beer until my sophomore year of college. That success followed a few aborted attempts, and I still remember how distasteful it was to me at that time. This image, courtesy of The Onion, pretty well sums up what happened next:

My appreciation for beer has followed a predictable trajectory. First, it was forced down can by can. Then, it warped my sense of reality when I finished several. Then it was a reward for my prodigious beer pong skill. Now, Angie and I try new brands and varieties whenever we can. The microbreweries in the area are fantastic, from the local John Harvards to our favorite, Willimantic Brewery.

Despite our adventurous spirit in sampling brews, I have a few favorites. They are:

1. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale - In my opinion, the best large-market beer available. The flavor of hops and spices is second to none, and it can be gotten anywhere. Always a safe bet, always delicious.
2. Tiger Beer - The national beer of Singapore, I never actually had any when I lived there. Still, it retains a sentimental value and is an excellent pilsner that pairs well with spicy Asian foods.
3. Southampton IPA - A recent discovery, this India Pale Ale is full of hops, the bitterness cutting through the summer heat and humidity with a welcome bite.
4. Blue Moon - A Belgian white ale from Colorado, Blue Moon has a unique, mild flavor that showcases its spices. A good pick for people who typically don’t like beer.
5. Sea Dog Blueberry Ale - A great dessert beer, with a sweet taste like a rich blueberry muffin. Not for every day, but really hits the spot when craving a sweeter brew.

So there it is. Let me know which beers you recommend and I’ll be sure to look for them. Kanpai!

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