5 Maine Brews from the Gu

As the popularity of microbrews continues to grow, Portland has become the Craft Beer Center of the Universe. Because of that, we are blessed to be able to choose from a wicked huge number of breweries with so many great ales, pilsners, lagers, and stouts to choose from. People come from near and far to experience all the great flavor of the Pine Tree State.

We celebrate beer and celebrate with beer all year around here. But we love beer so much, it really does deserve it's own huge Maine festival. And now, the best thing about January is almost here...Portland On Tap! This year it's even bigger with two days on Friday January 26 and Saturday January 27. Maybe we'll find some new faves this year. 

Here's 5 local brews always in my libation rotation:

• Geary's Hampshire Special Ale-At 7% ABV, This is the legendary one to have when I'm only having one. (or two, or three...)   
• Bissell Brothers Substance Ale-I love to have this with a plate of sweet potato fries...6.6 ABV so again, not suckin' down a rack of poundahs. Worth getting in line for.
• Allagash White (belgian style wheat)-When I'm out at one of the many classy Portland joints, I go with the fine wine of beers.
• Gritty's Vacationland Summer Ale-Lower ABV than the previously mentioned ales at 4.9%, yet it's richer than other watered-down lighter warm weather beers so I get to have a few at a time in the summah. Sorry bub...it ain't out again for a few months. Definitely worth the wait though! 
• Maine Beer Company Lunch IPA-This is my east coast/west coast jam! They call it 'Lunch' , but I usually have it with a nice seafood platter of fried haddock, scallops and shrimp for dinner. ABV is 7% so again, just havin' a couple gurglies. 

As you can see, my go to is generally an ale for what ales ya. I find the hoppiness compliments the aromatic terpenes of another happy plant. Don't get mad if your beer didn't make the list. Maybe I haven't tried it yet. Remember to drink responsibly and always have a designated driver. Cheers!

What's are your favorite local brews? #PortlandOnTap