Jim’s Comments (group member since Sep 23, 2011)

Jim’s comments from the Beer group.

I haven't seen a book yet but here is a link to an online Nc Beer magazine: http://ncbeermagazine.com

There seem to be a lot of Texans in this group so I thought I would ask a question about the Houston beer scene. My daughter is moving back to Houston (even farther away from NC. Can anyone recommend a good local brewery?

BeerDiablo wrote: "1978 was the year home brewing was made legal again in the U.S.
That has helped improve the quality of beer here, fueling the current craft beer growth. The number of breweries are supposedly up to..."

Yes, but laws regarding home brewing vary according to the state you are in. There was a recent case in Alabama where a home brew store was raided and their supplies seized by the state. It caused quite an uproar in the home brewing community.

I took it up as a hobby this year and find it quite enjoyable (and tasty). Each batch has gotten better as I learn from my mistakes.

I just started "The Naked Pint"The Naked Pint: An Unadulterated Guide to Craft Beer. The writing style and presentation seem to be interesting. It seems like a good read for beer fans.

This is an offering in the Kindle Single series - more of an in depth article than a full length book. It is an enjoyable , quick read but doesn't offer much in the way of new information. He does present some interesting ideas in the ongoing debate of beer vs. wine. I think it is well worth your time, as the time is quite limited, if you have an interest in this subject.

There is a new offering in the Kindle Single series entitled "Why Beer Matters".

Anthony wrote: "Jim wrote: "I know what you mean. I do enjoy wine but it is way to easy to go for that third glass. Some of the IPAs and stouts available allow you to slow down and appreciate the taste and drink ..."

Anthony, the third glass of beer can do the same for me. But, we are beginning to see some high quality, god tasting low ABV beers that give you a chance to enjoy a third glass without the negative consequences.

I had a Smuttynose Winter Ale last night. This really is quite good. Very similar to New Belgium Abbey. I still prefer the Abbey but you don't give up much with the Smuttynose.

I know what you mean. I do enjoy wine but it is way to easy to go for that third glass. Some of the IPAs and stouts available allow you to slow down and appreciate the taste and drink less while enjoying it more.

BeerDiablo wrote: "Dig the name "Natty Greene"."

It comes from Nathaniel Greene, the general who led the American forces in the Battle of Guilford College. The americans actually lost that battle but the British suffered such heavy casualties that it seemed more like a defeat. they still have a yearly reenactment of the battle.

Well, Anthony it is hard, but not impossible, to find anything, let alone a pub, that is 400 years old in the US. But, Nate is right. There is a lively craft brew scene in the US. But it can't match the history you have there. Here in Greensboro , NC we have two local brewers - Red Oak and Natty Greene ( named after a hero of the American Revolution). Most of the larger towns in this state have local brewers of brew pubs.

Finally finished Tasting Beer . for me, this is more of a reference book than an easy reading guide to the subject. I've posted my review of the book.

Thanks. I was beginning to wonder if this group was still active. There are three local brewpubs/microbreweries in the immediate area - Red Oak, Natty Greene, and Foothills.

I did order the book mentioned along with Naked Pint and will post reviews when I've read them. I did take a mini-course from beer judge though our church. It got me interested in beer again as I had given up on the national brands as tasteless and not worth drinking.

Have any of you read "Tasting Beer" by Randy Mosher? It seems like it would be an interesting read. I've just sarted getting interested in craft beers after years of avoiding the big three - can't tell them apart brews.