A Hop Ahead of the Next Beer Trend I’ve been to some of the great beer cities of the world, toured breweries big and small, sampled the wares, and attended the beer fests. It’s no secret. I’m a gal who likes beer. Over the next few days I’m profiling four U.S. beer cities: from East Coast to West, start up to centuries old. Each is as much about bringing its own regional culture to beer and its social aspects as it is about creating drafts that uniquely identify its city’s place in the world. A zwickel is a “nipple” or “sampling cock” on a tank or barrel of fermenting ale, but in the...

The New Kid on the Block I’ve been to a few of the great beer cities of the world, toured breweries big and small, sampled the wares, and attended the beer fests. It’s no secret. I’m a gal who likes beer. Over the next few days, I’ll profile four U.S. beer cities: from East Coast to West, start up to centuries old. Each is as much about bringing its own regional culture to beer and its social aspects as it is about creating drafts that uniquely identify its city’s place in the world. I’ll start with my hometown. So if you’re in Arizona, grab a pint of Prescott Brew, Grand Canyon or Four...

The sign above Foxy John’s in Dingle, Ireland doesn’t mix words, only begs the question: Really? The windows are clouded and the door nothing but a few pieces of wood. Opening it is one of those acts of faith. Would confused mechanics holding beers and wrenches greet me on the other side? But like Hansel and Gretel, I can’t resist the strange promise of a houseful of treats and with a push take a peak inside. There are no confused mechanics, only several patrons holding pints and one Foxy John behind the bar. As I step inside, I see the other half of the room. Boxes and drawers of tools as...

As a marketing person, I’m a sucker for a well-executed party or theme event. But for the Irish, good music, drink and conversation isn’t a gimmick. What is commonly known as the craic, is just a natural way of life on the Emerald Isle. Or so I hope to find out. I got my first taste of craic years ago laughing and singing along to American Pie at Kell’s in Portland on a rainy night. It was one of those “just right” bars that never got too hot or too cold inside. Where stepping out into the rain was refreshing. At least for a few minutes. We have our share of Irish pubs in...

October is a long-awaited month for Arizonans. First the evenings cool off, followed by the days, and the mad excitement to finally be outside again ultimately reaches its tipping point. Even though temps are back in the 100s this weekend, the only detours we locals encounter to the plethora of seasonal events are from highway construction. With so much to choose from and do every weekend, it’s hard to write it all down. The 4th annual Groom Gathering took place on a much smaller scale this year. Life has caught up with many of the regular climbers, so between newborn babies, extra work in our...