Drink Locally, Think Globally!

The Capital region has so many great beer spots for a beer geek to hang out at. I had a busy weekend and still was able to stop and smell the roses (or in my case sip the beer). When I run errands I’m always looking for that opportunity. It started with taking Jess up to Saratoga for a SibShops session. I pop in, meet the counselors, and then they tell me to split. So I head over to the Local Pub, and cozy up to a piece of wall and enjoy the experience. This is an English pub, with families and young people out to eat (try the Welsh rarebit), drink, and socialize. I had the Smuttynose Winter Ale, a classic from one of my favorite breweries.

The next day it was down to Mahar’s to meet some friends. I enjoyed the Full Sail Amber, and recommending different beers for the team. Sunday is time out with the family, and we passed on the Albany Pump House (forgot the food coupon) to go over to Brown’s brewing. We sat in the loft, looking down on the bar patrons. I got the Shepherd’s Pie, an English classic, and their Mardi Gras special Hoodoo Voodoo Ale (tasted a lot like their Irish Amber). It was a nice evening, and allowed us to bond as a family.

Finally, I had the pleasure seeing Jessica sing down at the Empire Plaza with her school choir. She did a fantastic job, and I was so proud of her. However, I couldn’t have lunch with the school, so I headed down to Castleton with Mahar’s 2. This place is perfect for lunch, no crowds, good food and even better beer. I had the Wychwood Bitter and a Ploughman’s lunch (guess I’m really getting in the mood for a trip back to the UK). Jim and I talked family, beer, work and then more beer. It was a great way to spend an afternoon.

So if you are coming to Albany, give me a call and I can show you great spots to try quality beer. – 5746/10402

"I drink beer whenever I can get my hands on any." – Thomas Merton