Alpine Beer Company : 10-29-05

Saturday was my first visit to the Alpine Beer Company. For you San Diegians who love good beer this is a must visit. There is not much to the store front, they do not have a restaurant (in the works) or a long bar; remember, its about the beer.

I started off with Willy, a wheat beer, very smooth and light (4.9% alc), got the palate going. I next tried the Irish Red, very balanced (6% alc), I expected it to be a little sweeter. Next up was Pure Hoppiness (8% alc). Now normally I am not a fan of strong hoppy beers (IPAs), but let me tell you, this made the drive to Alpine worth it. I realize now that I just never had a good IPA. I associate bitter with IPA, not so with Pure Hoppiness. Again perfect balance just enough bite from the hops with a smooth finish. I next sampled the WHALE, another seasonal brew. Seasonal Hops used to make this one. Reminded me of a cross between the Irish Red and Pure Hoppiness. Last up was the Exponential Hoppiness (10.5% alc). This is a seasonal, triple IPA, double dried hopped, aged with american white oak. You gotta be ready for this one. From the nose before the first sip (Strong Hops Aroma) to finish.

Overall, some of the best beer I have had in a long time. Such a big difference in flavor when you buy direct from the brew house. I walked away with a Growler (64 oz) of the WHALE and 22 oz bottles of Pure Hoppiness and the Irish Red. Did not even last 2 days. I cant wait to go back this weekend for more.

Alpine Beer Company
2351 Alpine Blvd
Alpine, CA 91901
619-445-2337
Tues-Saturday 12pm-6pm