This Beer reminds me of Easter

I had a "tough" decision to make Thursday night. After working late all week, I figured I could either work another late night and go another day with a beer or I could leave work grab dinner and drink beer. It only took me a second to decide that I needed to leave work as I remembered complaining the other night that it's been several days since I had a beer. I think I actually forgot what beer tastes like!

Plus, I knew if I left work, not only could I drink brews, I would also have something to blog about. Because I wanted to try something different, I ended up at Fingers Wings and Things in Conshohocken. Don't let the name fool you, this place offers more than just wings and chicken products. While I was at work, I took a second out of my busy day to visit their website and instantly became excited after reading their beer menu. The bar menu was awesome and offers some not so common local micro brews. I must admit, I was impressed with their beer menu.

Although the beer menu had several beers I would have ordered, two of their draft beers choices stuck out: Dogfish Head Aprihop and Appalachian Brewing Company Double IPA. It's been years since I've tried a beer from the ABC and can't remember remember ever going to bar other than their brewery that had ABC on tap. Honestly, I would have enjoyed either beer choice, however lately I've been craving to try the Aprihop Beer. I've heard much about this beer, and was teased the other week at the Jug when I was told they had this beer when they didn't. Besides, I never had the Double IPA, and although I love IPAs I'm not much of a fan of Double IPAs. The double IPAs are heavy and have too much of a bite. When it comes to beer I love the bite IPAs offer, but I like the lighter bite over the heavier bite (hopefully that make sense). With an ABC brewpub planned to open in the Philadelphia area sometime this summer, I will again become a regular.
I got my beer and noticed it was a dark in color, however for some odd reason it reminded me of spring. Actually let me rephrase, it reminded me of Easter. I don't think I ever had an Apricot fruit, but If I had I can imagine it tasting like this beer. Prior to my first taste I wasn't sure what to expect and thought it would have more of a lager taste. To my surprise this beer was light in taste, but not in flavor and I could taste the hops. Overall, I felt this was one of the better beers I've had lately, and have to give props to Dogfish Head on this beer. I ended up drinking more than I planned, but because of the type of beer I never felt bloated and even thought about getting a growler to take home. With work Friday morning I decided that might not be the best idea. Next time might be different.

Wawa Smoothie Instead of a Brew

I've been exhausted lately. Completely and utterly exhausted. I've been working as many hours as possible to get money ready for my closing date for my house. Because I've worked so much I haven't had time to drink any beer. Because I haven't drank beer, I haven't really had anything to blog about. During the week I'm working 9:30-11 so by the time I get home I am ready for bed. I did plan to do a beer review tonight. I planned on coming home and drinking one of my beers from the Beer of the Month Club that I have yet to try and write a review, an actual review. Instead I stopped at wawa and got a Caramel Smoothie. Although the smoothie was delicious it wasn't a beer. After drinking the smoothie I knew I wasn't going to drink a beer, and figured I could write about a beer game or maybe a recipe, or something elaborate. Instead I'm including a few thoughts and going to bed.

The good news is tomorrow is another day closer to the weekend and I should have some brews soon enough.

Plenty of Booze at the Wedding

Last week I could not wait for Saturday as I was anxious to attend Cait and Tim's wedding. As I've gotten older, I've come to appreciate weddings. I always find them to be a great time, and this is one event that I look forward too. One of the best things about weddings is the food; One of the better things about most wedding I've attended: the free booze. Technically, it's not "free" because you do provide a gift to the couple getting married, but what I noticed about weddings is that people tend to drink. Actually people drink a lot at weddings. Something about weddings puts people in great moods, and thirsty for alcohol.
The wedding was held in Perkasie, PA at the Lake House Inn. With the wedding being in Bucks County, we decided to stay at a local hotel that the rest of the wedding guests were staying at. Besides its never a good idea driving home at night after a wedding. As the majority of the wedding party/guests were staying at this hotel, I figured there would be some type of after party. For a wedding to be great, there needs to be an after party. When I get married you bet your ass I will have an after party.

Before driving to Quakertown to check into the hotel, we stopped at the Roger Wilco to pick up beer and liquor. Although we knew the wedding would have plenty of beer, I wanted to grab beer for the hotel. I did my normal lap around the store, and still wasn't sure what I wanted to drink. Because I thought I might end up sharing a beer or two with others, I decided to go with a sampler pack and narrowed my choices down to the Magic Hat Spring Sampler and Victory Brewing Company Sampler. As the Victory pack only had three beers included and the Magic Hat including four I decided to go with the Magic Hat. Besides last week I complained about wanting this sampler pack. The sampler pack included #9, Blind Faith IPA, Wacko, and Single Chair. I've heard and tried all of these beers except for the Single Chair. The only beer from the Victory pack that I remember was HopDevil.

We got to the hotel, and I know this will surprise you but I didn't start drinking. I decided to wait until the cocktail hour to get my drink on. After getting shuttled to the ceremony it was time to drink and eat. As the wedding "drink" was a strawberry mojito I knew I would drink one. Heck, we could consider this the good luck drink to the bride and groom, and since they had them set out on a long table I couldn't resist. I finished my mojito while I got in the bar line. I knew it was time to switch to beer.

Most weddings I've attended, don't cater to the craft beers lovers, nor do they have a huge selection of beer, which is fine. I find at wedding most people prefer mix drinks/cocktails throughout the night. The beer choices were basic: Yeungling, Amstel light, Coors light, and Henekein. For most of the night I stuck with the Henekein, and switched it up with a Yeungling, and Coors Light. I'm not going to get into the taste of any of those beers, or make any reference because anyone that has drank beer before knows what these beers taste like. All I know is when I get married I will have a nice selection of craft beers to choose from. Maybe I should just have the ceremony at a brewery.

We got back to the hotel after midnight and I continued my beer drinking. The after party didn't last as long as I hoped, but that didn't stop me from drinking. I finished the night drinking the rest of the Magic Hat and ended up finishing up the 12 pack except for the lone Single Chair. When I packed in the morning I had a tough dilemma, do I bring home the lone beer or do I leave it for the cleaning Service. In the end I ended up leaving the beer.

For Once, Tequilla Over Beer

My ride to New Jersey Thursday evening was horrible, and was some of the worst traffic I've driven in some time. Normally I don't care about traffic, however as I had an important meeting with the bank at 6 I didn't want to be late. I left work at 4 thinking I would have enough time to get to Vorhees. Unfortunately, two hours later I was still stuck in my vehicle. The traffic alone was enough to make me drink.

I love leaving work at a normal time, because I get to eat dinner out with my parents and Lauren. The past few weeks I've been craving Tortilla Press so when it came time to make a decision that was my suggestion. We got to the restaurant and realized Chef Mark was having his cooking/dinner class which closed off the restaurant area. Because of his class we sat in the bar area, which turned out to be an awesome experience. I looked over the beer list and saw the taps in front of me; I noticed a Bock beer on tap. Just like Belgian beers, Bock beers are not something I normally drink. As I was uncertain about this beer, I decided to ask for a sample, and I'm glad I did. After the sample, I realized this was not something I could drink as the taste reminded me of a Bourbon. When I drink beer I want it to be refreshing and cold, not dry and warm.

As I was eating Mexican, I went with the Dark Modela beer. Unlike the Bock beer, I've had this beer and knew what to expect with the taste. While sitting in the bar, we got the opportunity to hang with an exciting and crazy bartender, who was like a mad scientist with her drinks. Her first suggestion was a pineapple Mojito, which Lauren and my father ordered. As much as I love beers, a tall Mojito really hits the spot assuming they were made correct. Thankfully, she knew what she was doing,

I finished my first beer, and it was time to get another drink. Instead of grabbing a second beer, I went a different route, and inquired about what Margarita she could whip up. After hearing what she could make I decided on a Mango-Pomegranate Margarita. When I drink Margaritas I order them on the rocks with salt on the rim. I can't remember the last time I drank a Margarita and think this was one of the betters ones I've had. As much as I love beer, and I do mean LOVE beer, I do prefer the occasional mix drink. Especially if those mix drinks include tequilla.

Victoria's First Skydive

Maybe I can figure out how to get my video posted.

Happy Birthday Victoria

Today would have been my sisters 23rd birthday. For those that got the opportunity to meet my sister I'm certain you would agree that she was truly a remarkable person. In her short 18 years of life she touched many, and ALWAYS lived life to the fullest. Unfortunately for her family, friends, and the many people she met Victoria was lost nearly 5 years ago this coming November. Although it does get easier as time goes on, she will never be forgotten as her friends and family keep her memory alive through her stories. Those that knew my sister knew that she would never want anyone to be upset that she's gone. She always smiled, and always knew how to have fun. More importantly she would have made sure you would also experience that joy with her. Tonight, this evening, or this weekend, if you go out and have a drink be sure to remember her. Tell a story about her, and celebrate her life, not mourn her death.

Happy Birthday Victoria.
May your stories and memories still touch others.

Just Tease Me with Beer You Don't Have

Monday was a busy night for the Philadelphia sports teams. Out of the 4 major teams the Flyers and Sixers were playing a playoff game, and lets not forget that Joe Blanton was taking the mound for the Phillies. With all the games playing Monday night, I imagined any bar would be crowded, and impossible to get a table. One of my favorite things to do while drinking beer is watching sports, and I was in the mood to drink craft draft beer. I'm certain you all can agree to that statement.

I ended up at the Jug Handle Inn, and was shocked by how empty this place was. I last went to this bar during a snowstorm after an early dismissal at work; I remembered they had a nice selection of craft beer. I grabbed the table in front of one of the Televisions, and looked over the beer list. Although there was beer specials for Bud and Miller products, I went with a beer I knew I would enjoy: Flying Fish Farmhouse Ale. Despite this being a light beer I enjoyed the taste, but then again I don't think I've ever had a Flying Fish beer that I didn't like. I know I say this all the time, but I really need to get to the brewery one of these Saturdays.

I do want to mention that the jug has a rotating selection of micro beers on tap from their downstairs bar. I asked the server about selection, and some beers that stood out were: Troegs Java Stout, DogFish Head Apricot, and the Southern Tier IPA. Ironically, the last time I drank here I ordered a draft of the Southern Tier Pumpkin Ale. As I loved that beer, I decided to try their IPA. Unfortunately the server came back and told me they actually didn't have this on tap, which was disappointing. Regardless I went with my second choice, the Dogfish Head Apricot, which I never had but was told this past weekend it's something I should try. Again, I was informed by the server that they didn't have this on tap. Again, a bit disappointing.(I'm sounding like a broken record). Thankfully, the server got an updated listed and mentioned Boulder City IPA on tap. As my original choice was an IPA, I ordered a draft. I got the beer, and noticed how much darker it was than my first beer, but after my first sip I realized this was a typical IPA. This beer was okay, but there wasn't anything special about it that would make me order this again.

I was completely exhausted Monday, and for once I decided to cut out of work and grab a drink. Overal, I must say it was a disappointing night.

Beer Filled Weekend

I went to Connecticut with Lauren to visit her family, and drank a lot of beer. As always, I had an awesome time and look forward to the next time going back.

We stopped at the beer store and I saw the most interesting man in the world. No, not really. But I did see a cut out of this guy. I ended up taking a picture, and considered standing next to him and have Lauren take a picture. After thinking about it I thought that might be a bit weird. Like always I thought long and hard about what beer I would drink; when I finally decided I grabbed a 12 pack of the Magic Hat Spring Sampler Vinyl. The beer sounds good, but this wasn't what I thought I was getting. As I scanned the beer coolers and shelves, I saw this pack and for some odd reason I didn't realized it was only the spring sampler. It wasn't until I got to the car that I realized this, and by then it was too late. While in the store I thought I was purchasing the Magic Hat variety pack. Although I enjoyed the spring sampler which is crisp and was perfect for drinking multiple beers, I was a bit disappointed it was only the seasonal. Lauren suggested back in the store and seeing if I could exchange the pack, but as I've never done that before I didn't bother. I don't think I have ever exchanged beer, and felt weird about it.

Gas prices have been insane lately, and from what I hear it's only going to get worse. The news mentioned that by summer we could be paying $5 a gallon. Living in New Jersey we have seen the prices increase, but nothing to the extent of what I saw this weekend. I got gas at one of the cheapest stations I found in the state of Connecticut and still was amazed by how high it was. I really hope gas prices don't increase too much more, but lets be real they most likely will. With the possibility of gas prices going higher I hope this doesn't cut into my money I use to buy beer. Paying $3.99 a gallon I could only think that this is money I could use for beer.

Everyone knows I love IPAs, including Lauren's uncle. While he was out picking up beer for the weekend he decided to ask the guy working about what IPA he recommends. His suggestion: Dogfish Head 90 minute Imperial IPA. I've heard of this beer, but this past weekend was the first time trying it. After my first sip I realized this was a much heavier beer, and reminded me of a double IPA. Unless my taste buds change, I think I'll stick with the 60 minute IPA.

Me and Laur joined her family to dinner at Outback Saturday night. Lately, I've been craving Outback, and when it came time to order Lauren talked me into getting the ribs, but without a cold beer how could I possibly eat my dinner? I went with the Sam Adam's Noble Pilsner which was served in a frosty mug. It's been a while since I had a beer in a cold mug, but I always enjoy it. I also was impressed by the size of the mug the beer was served in. Not only was the mug big and cold, but the beer in it was fresh. Maybe because I was only a few hours from Boston?

Here is the beer Magic Hat beer that I ended up getting. The artwork on the bottle was cool looking, and from what I read on the case they had a real artist design it. The beer was good, but it would have tasted much better from a variety pack.

I told you I drank a lot of beer and brands, and the picture above was the siera nevade pale ale I drank. I didn't get a picture of it, but I also got to drink Land Shark Beer. I believe this beer is named after or owned by Jimmy Buffet, which wouldn't surprise me. The beer tasted like a Corona, and that is something I could see Buffet or his parrot heads drinking.

No, I didn't buy a 6 pack of Magic Hat Howl this time. This was one of the leftovers from the last time I had visited Lauren's family as this was then the seasonl. Lauren's uncle popped one open for me Sunday afternoon, however after a long Saturday night I only took a few sips.

And finally... the Tequila. I use to love tequila until I realized I can't do it too often as I get too crazy. If your wondering, this is the one that Christopher from the Sopranos advertises, and yes it does pour it's own shot. I thought about taking a youtube video of it, but thought this is a beer blog, not a tequila blog. Maybe that will be my next venture.....

Is it Summer Already?

I intended to blog and pack for the weekend last night; I even left the office before 7 thinking I could use the extra time to do both. I had every intention to do this, but once I got home and laid on the couch I was sound asleep. Instead I packed this morning. As I won't be in town this weekend, I'm not sure if I will have any new blogs this weekend, so you'll have to check the twitter account as I do plan to update that. Because I didn't blog last night, I'm taken time during my lunch to say a few words about beer.

I realized last night that summer is right around the corner. I caught up with my parents at Houlihan's in Cherry Hill before heading home. The last time I was there I sat in the bar section and ended up drinking a few Cherry Wheat's. I have since ended that kick, and after hearing the beer list I noticed that three of the choices pertained to Summer Ales. For their summer seasonal, they had Sam Adam's, Blue Moon, and I can't seem to remember the third choice. As I haven't had a summer seasonal since last summer I went with the Blue Moon Summer Ale. I would have gone with the Sam's Adam ale, but I was informed the batch they had wasn't too good.

I got my first beer, and must say I wasn't sure if I got the correct beer as it looked like a Budweiser. Compared to the normal Blue Moon it was a much lighter, and didn't have that orange color. I took my first sip and tasted the crispness that most summer beers provide. I had forgotten how good these beers are to drink during the summer, and am looking forward to the summer beers. I planned to drink only one beer, but because of a bartender error, I got a second one! Thinking now, drinking that second one probaly caused me to fall asleep.

A Hippie Beer

This past weekend I drank some unique beers that I never had before. I previously blogged about my Saturday night at Monk's, but I never mentioned that I went to another bar before I called it a night. I guess when I wrote that blog I was tired and was lazy. I'm not sure of the bar's name, but it reminded me of a pirate ship, and after looking at their beer list I noticed the Ithaca Flower Power. For some reason upstate New York reminds me of Hippies, and as this was an IPA I didn't think twice. I don't remember exactly how this beer tasted, however I'm certain it was refreshing after drinking Belgian beers all night. I did find it ironic that since drinking this beer, I swear I've seen it on all the beer and bar websites I've gone to. The next time I drink this beer, I'm sure I'll have a better idea if I like this beer as I won't be crushing Belgian beers.

A Cool Pint Glass for a Cool Beer

This upcoming weekend I won't be in town as I will be visiting Lauren's family and friends in Connecticut. Before committing to head north, my previous plans revolved around the Phillies as I had tickets to both Saturday and Sunday's game. Because of this I had to get rid of both pairs, and planned to sell the one pair Sunday night. After working Sunday afternoon, I headed up to the Pottstown area with Lauren, and we thought we could drop the tickets off and get back on the road considering it was late. However, as we were driving through the area we passed The Brick House, and because we had not eaten dinner, we decided to stop. Heck, I figured I could at least grab a beer. As I walked in, I immediately began thinking what beer I would order as I noticed several of my favorites on tap at the bar. The Brick House, which reminded me of an old bank from the 1920s had TVs set up throughout the bar area, and I was thrilled to see the Red Sox/Yankees game on considering some of those players are on my fantasy team. After looking at their beer choices, I decided to select a favorite of mine: Magic Hat #9. While I watched the game, I drank not one #9 but two #9s. It was a great feeling just relaxing and watching Sunday night baseball at an awesome bar. What impressed me even more was the pint glasses both beers were served in. Both beers were poured in a Magic Hat glass, which I don't think I've ever seen. As unique as Magic Hat beers are, the glasses were even cooler. I couldn't help but get excited about moving into my house, and geting some cool beer mugs to serve beer at my home bar. If I end back in the area I will absolutely visit this bar as the glasses alone told me this place takes pride in the beer they serve.

Another Month, Another Case in the Mail

To be honest, I was disappointed with last months beer of the month club. I never heard of any of the beers included in this month's club, but I am excited to try the Lucky Bucket IPA.

Drinking outside the Box

The Belgian beer type is one beer that I know little about. I've never been too fond of the taste, as the ones I've tried I felt tasted sour and "skunked." The number of times I've tried Belgian beer can be counted on one hand. So when I was invited to the Belgian beer bar Monk's Cafe I will admit I was a bit weary, and had no clue what to expect. I ended up working another Saturday and cut out around 7 to head into the city. What I thought would be a 15-20 minute drive, took well over a hour as there was a major accident on I76 westbound. The multi car pile up had both lanes shut down at one point; by the time we got to the bar I was ready to drink regardless of the beer type. They could have had Natty Ice, and I would have been thrilled.

Thankfully, the people we were meeting had gotten a spot by the crowded and jammed bar. Trying to figure out what beer to order I looked over the list they provided and read each beer description at least 10 times, I even went through their beer bible. As I know nothing about this beer type I had no idea what to order, but knew I should order a beer they had on draft. After what felt like an eternity to make a decision, I ordered the Hasndbryggerist Good Force Beer. The beer, which was served in a Belgian glass was orange in color and was enjoyable which surprised the hell out of me. I've always heard that Belgian beers are strong, and realized the strength of this beer soon after finishing my first. I'm sure not eating since lunch didn't help.

By the time we got seated, I was finishing up my first beer, and was ready to order a second one. Wanting to try a different Belgian, I ordered the beer that the other guys I was with were drinking: A Russian Belgian Ale. This beer was served in a pint glass, and reminded me of a pale ale. I preferred this beer over the first one, and ordered a third. To be honest, I got so caught up in the beer, food and company that I didn't worry or think too much about the ideas and important information that I could use for this blog. What I remembered most about Monk's Cafe was that it was a busy bar that had awesome beer selection, and their mussel were incredible.

If your looking to drink outside the box, give this place a try.

Just what the Doctor Ordered

I haven't been feeling 100% this past week. After sitting outside in the extreme cold Tuesday night, I woke up with some of the worst chest pain and congestion I've had in a long time. I decided to call out sick, and even took a day off from the blog. The much needed sleep and just relaxing made me feel better and that night I ended up going to dinner with the parents at TGI Fridays. It's been forever that I've been to this restaurant/bar, but I can remember in my younger days going there all the time. As I was sick I wasn't certain if I should order a beer, but after seeing my dad order a Blue Moon, I couldn't fight the urge. Drinking a beer after laying around all day was a great feeling, and I can admit that the beer made me feel much better than the medicine I was taking.

Is this Sushi or Beer?

I woke up Sunday with the intention not to drink any beer. After drinking Friday and Saturday I figured my body could use the break especially since my College days are long gone. Thankfully, to help with the break I ended up getting a great night sleep, which also made my drive back to New Jersey area a breeze. When I finally got home, I decided to join my parents for brunch; we wanted to try something different and after looking online we made reservations at Cork in Collingswood (I believe). We got seated, and I noticed a book on the table that I knew had their drinks, beers, and wines. Although I wasn't drinking I was still curious to see what they offered, and I began flipping through it. I have to admit, even though I told myself I wouldn't drink, there were several beers that I would have liked to have tried. My urge to order a beer grew when I noticed that some of the beers they had on tap weren't listed in their book. Some of the micro brews they featured were: Yards, Flying Dog, Stouts, Victory, and Troegs. Despite the excellent selection I decided to order water and called it an afternoon.

My intention not to drink didn't last the entire day. I went to dinner at PF Chang's, and planned to order an Ice Tea until I saw a beer on the menu that was truly unique. In their draft selection they had a beer called Bistro Ginger Beer. Like a cat, my curiousity set in, and I had to order this beer. When it came, I didn't know what to think as a lemon slice was put on the glass similar to the way an orange is with a Blue Moon, so I flicked it in. The beer was light in color, but I could definitely tasted the Ginger; Hence the name, Ginger beer. Thinking about it, I don't know if I actually liked this beer or not. After each sip, I found myself trying to make a decision on this beer, but couldn't. The beer reminded me of when you eat sushi and you eat the ginger that is served next to the wasabi. I don't know what PF Chang's does to give it the flavor, but I can't imagine a brewery actually brewing this beer. Then again I'm certain breweries have added stranger ingredients to their  beer. If any of you are ever at a PF Chang's, give this beer a try and let me know what you think. 

A Cold Night in South Philadelphia

Last night was cold. Actually, it was freezing. I can honestly say I now know what Jack felt in Titanic as Rose was floating on the wood while they waited to be rescued in the middle of the ocean. I cut out of work at 6 and my drive down to the stadium took a little over a hour. Despite the traffic to the stadium my drive was relaxing and I rode with the windows down believing it not to be that cold. By the time I got to the stadium and parked the game was about 10 minutes in, and being stupid I didn't grab my jacket. Heck, I thought I could easily put a beer coat on.

It wasn't until I got inside the stadium that I realized how cold it was. I immediately knew I should have grabbed my jacket, and had to resort to the giveaway t shirt and my long sleeve phils shirt to keep warm. I needed a beer, so me and Rich ended at the first hometown brewery we saw to order a beer. Although there were 4 micro brew choices, I had to go with one of my favorites: Flying Fish Summer Ale. Unfortunately the beer didn't make me believe I was in the summer months. I think a better choice would have been Sam Adam's Winter Ale.

I got to my seats, and didn't worry about my beer becoming warm and unenjoyable. In fact, I thought the complete opposite and figured my beer would freeze. It was so cold that I didn't want to drink, and I couldn't even move. A few times I found myself going to the bathroom not because I had to use it, but because I thought I could get warm.

As cold as it was, and because of the poor performance the Phillies put on I only drank my one beer, and left by the 6th inning. The one benefit of that was I hit no traffic leaving. It was still early in the night, and because I had to drive Rich to Media we stopped at the Iron Hill Brewery in Media Square. Again, I feel like I should be a spokesperson for this place, but I love this brewery and they are everywhere. If anyone that works at Iron Hill reads this please consider me for a position that allows me to drink your beer and write for you guys.

I ended up drinking a Rising Sun, but noticed a beer on their list called Hopalicious. I can only assume this was a hoppy beer. I should have ordered this beer, but as I blogged previously I have a love affair with the Rising Sun.

There's two things I want to mention about Iron Hill: the Iron Hill in Maple Shade is holding a fundraiser this Friday to raise money for the people of Japan. For those that are going to this location, please order a draft (or two) of the rising sun as 100% of the proceeds are going to help the people of Japan. I do plan to work late that night, but I might have to stop by to support the cause. The second thing I want to mention is that the Iron Hill in Media is doing their annual brewfest on May 14. I went last year and drank beers from over over 25 breweries. Not to mention they serve food, and have live music. The weather was perfect last year, and it was a great time. I'm still undecided if I'm attending this year, but this is one event that's completely worth the money.

As for the Phillies, I determined today that any tickets (other than opening day) I have during the month of April I will end up selling.

No Liquor at this Bar

After being eliminated from the Beer Pong Tournament, I spent the rest of my day relaxing and drinking Miller light. My day in Lancaster, quickly turned to night, and as a group we decided to head to a local bar and grab a drink. Lately, it seems drinking/bar choices are based on my love for beer, and after kicking around a few ideas we decided we would go to the Taproom Brewing House in Lancaster City as they are known for their beer. I mentioned previously that I had gone to school at York, and was always aware of the many breweries this area offers. I do regret and am ashamed to say that I never went to this place, nor even heard of it. I knew I would like this bar when I joked with someone that I'll go only if we don't order shots and was told there's nothing but beer served at this establishment. I immediately knew this would be my type of bar. 

We got to the bar which seemed to be tucked into the bottom side of an office or housing complex. I did my normal glance at the bar area, and saw a handful of taps. However as they were just black tap handles, I wasn't sure of my beer options. As I wasn't a regular I was handed a beer list, and realized this place was different. Each beer had an unique name that stood out to me, and the price of the beer was fair for craft brews. I took a minute to think over my choice, and picked a beer I had no idea what it tastes like. I went with the Mango Ale. From the name, I imagined the beer tasting like Mango's. It had a dark orange color, and after my first sip it reminded me more of a cider. Out of all the beers I've had in my beer career I don't think there is any type I could compare this to. The beer was as unique as it's name.

Aside from the beer the artwork on the wall caught my eye. I even thought about buying one of the shirts they displayed on the same wall. My only complaint was that I had a two hour drive ahead of me, so I decided to only drink one beer. I guess this means I'll have to go back out to Lancaster in the near future, and try one of other beers. I might have to order the beer sampler tray.