The Beer

How long did it take me to write a post about the Beer... a bit too long.  Let's be honest, its basically all the same here. English Beer should become the new definition of Session Beer. I can't even count on two hands how many Beers I have seen sub-3% out here... that's practically a juice box that has been sitting out for a few hours! What the hell am I going to do with a 2.5% beer? Beyond this they are all bitters.  This means that they are extremely malty, with a dry hop finish.  And don't be fooled by the different lables; Wheat, ESB, Old Ale... They are all the same.

This is not to say its bad. Its a hell of a lot better than that fermented yellow fizz that so many Americans call beer; but should instead hail it the same as what it's called when it exits the body. It's just sooo dammnnn homogeneous.

One of the main difficulties is that legally anything over 6% is taxed at the same rate that wine is taxed.  This is to curb binge drinking, but ultimately what happens is that the Brits just drink shots if they want to get pissed. As we all know from blue laws, people will always find a way to get drunk, no matter what is written.

What I do love though, is that though the microbrew culture is not in full swing, the culture is ingrained with beer.  No one will look at you weird if you want a beer for lunch, or on a Tuesday night think its a great idea to go running for 4-5 miles in a giant group simply so you have an excuse to drink (www.cityhash.org), which I might add is a total blast.

Even through it all, there is the tingling of the revolution. Brew Dog  has had explosive growth, with no signs of slowing down and a new brewery Camden Town, though not reaching as far from the Londoner palate has some very nicely balanced and crisp beers, extremely well made for food pairing. If you are ever in London, visit the brewery or grab a pint at a local pub, it is a truly enjoyable session beer.

The next 5 years, I believe, hold the same potential of the last 5 years in the US.  If anyone wants to get in on the action email me and I can tell you where to send your loads of cash... to become rich... beer rich ;)

Ultimately, its a million times better than Los Angeles, I can still find the same beers; its just a bit harder.