Monday, November 18, 2013

NYC pub of the night

Today I ventured to a few NYC pubs, but the one that really impressed me through technoligy was George Keeleys (485 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024). As all really good pubs, the space wasn't huge, nor was it catered to the Bud or Bush crowd.
When I first walked in, I was awakened with smiles, a clean smell and a board with roughly 22 micros on taps; along with a cool electronic beer menu behind the bar; which I will speak about later.

Everyone here was full of worry-free thoughts and a hunger for great beer. As I was waiting for my friend Heriberto (a good friend who I introduced to the beer scene) I saw that the entire bar was filled with a wide array of ages; from the early 20s to the ripe age of 67 (I asked a random senior).  Regardless of status, people were kind to one another and laughed endlessly.

Now, for the electronic menu board behind the bar. At first I thought it was a typical beer menu but as I continued to look at it, I saw that it's top portion kept their avid drinkers updated on interactions via Foursquare, Twitter and Untappd, when I saw this I had to definitely look for my name. 

The coolness didn't stop there. What made this board even cooler was how it monitored which kegs were recently tapped and how much beer was still left (similar color concept of a phone battery). You can look below for a picture that shows what I spoke about and more.

So the next time you are in NYC, please pay this place a visit; you won't regret it.


Go Explore,

Jaimes Brother

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Canada beer scene

Hey everyone,

I went to Canada for the weekend and wanted to try the beers they had out there. Finding unique brews was not a problem since the liquor and beers were both available together at the local liquor store.
I did find one thing unique about Canada's selection of offerings; most were light, medium bodies lagers or refreshing pilsners. I didn't find any high percentage brews being sold for less than $12 a bottle. Even though I was disappointed in not fnding some good IPAs or stouts, I did gain more respect for pilsners.
Normally, I don't like pilsners because of thier bittery finish that I see here in the states, but Canada offered some pilsners that were crisp and all around refreshing; thanks Canada. 
Unfortunately I was not able to venture into a hole in the wall that offered great brews, but I did find the Syndicate Brewing Co. It was here that I tasted some well rounded brews that didn't pack punches like many of the breweries here in America. Though I enjoy punches to my palette,  these flavors actually caressed them and made near love to them. The flavors in Canada were not bold, but found ways to work with each other in a way that allowed the drinker to enjoy while being curious.

I hope you enjoyed this brief summary of my time in Canada as a conquistador (explorer).

Go Explore,
Jaimes Brother

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Beer History

If you want to learn about how beer influenced our lives, and are too lazy to read a book or an issue of a beer magazine, then watch "How Beer Saved the World".

H.B.S.theW. is a funny, yet extremely interesting and historical documentary. This documentary changes your views on the #1 most consumed beverage in the world.  Some things it may change is: the view on our Nation's anthem, the creation of factories, refrigerators, and more.

I for one was enlightened and amazed on what beer did for this world.  Of course some information may be theories; where others seem to have more solid research weaved into it. Overall, I think you should research the information you find from this documentary so that you will value the information that much more.
I really hope you take the time to find this documentary on netflix or the internet somewhere because if you drink beer only to drink it, then this documentary will help you discover that you need to also appreciate it.

Go Explore,
Jaimes Brother

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Philadelphia Brewing Co

You first walk into the store portion of the brewery which is filled with merchandise and cases of beer. As you walk up you are welcomed by a huge space with large windows and an authentic Munich Germany Octoberfest style tent-like ceiling.
My girlfriend and I first try the cider... which is very bitter; more than just "tart" as its description implies.
One thing I'm not impressed with is the fact that there isn't a seasonal on their taste list. Overall I can't complain one bit for the free tour and tasting. Our tour guide was fantastic; I definitely recommend going on a tour which is held every hour on Saturdays.
Kenzinger is quite good, has Noble hops with a pilsner finish.
I'm going to continue enjoying my beers, so find yourself a good brew and enjoy with me.
Find my ratings of these beers on Untappd; a free beer app that is awesome and more awesome. My handle on Untappd is Enigma6

Go Explore
Jaimes Out

Friday, November 1, 2013

Running into Fire

Hey guys,
I'm sure you are heard about this, but I'm going to tell you again. This Georgia man ran into his burning home to save his beer. That's what I call dedication and passion. The funny thing about this is that he actually walks with a cane, so he definitely had adrenalin rushing through his veins at the thought of losing his beer.

I couldn't find what kind of beer he was saving but I hope it was a respectable brewing company and not some tasteless natural beer (if you know what I mean).

My question to you all; what beer would you save from a burnong home?

Go Explore,
Jaimes Brothers