RE: Beer Thread
I am a huge craft beer nerd, self-styled aficionado of Houston breweries. Houston has one of the best beer scenes in the country, not just by sheer number, but quality of product. There are 37 breweries/brewpubs currently operating in the Houston metro area, with another 17 slated to open in the next two years. Some of the bigger names in the city are below.
Saint Arnold Brewing - Houston's oldest independent brewery (2nd oldest in Texas, behind Spoetzl, who makes Shiner), founder Brock Wagner is considered the godfather of craft beer in Texas. They have a lot of good traditional styles. Art Car IPA and Santo black Kolsch are some of their best year-round beers, while some of their seasonals/specials, like Pumpkinator, Divine Reserve series, and Bishop's Barrel series are hot commodities. 8 medals in the last 5 years at the Great American Beer Fest.
Karbach - Karbach was founded as an independent brewery, then sold to Budweiser a few years ago. They still have some good stuff, and their marketing budget has obviously gone through the roof, but they rubbed a lot of Houston beer people the wrong way by "selling out".
8th Wonder Brewing - A quirky, unique brewery located in east Downtown, really close to Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park. These guys put out some really unique styles, not afraid to take risks. Their marketing is really good, as they play on Houston cultural topics with all of their logos and beer names (Hopston, Dome Faux'M, Cougar Paw, etc.)
Spindletap Brewing - As you may be able to tell by the name, these are some oil & gas guys that got into craft brewing. Their brewery is located at the site of their energy services business. They got in early on the hazy, New England IPA craze, and they are one of the hottest breweries in Texas right now due to their abilities with that style. Their monthly hazy releases sell out in minutes.
Buffalo Bayou Brewing - These guys may be the most adventurous brewery in town when it comes to beer styles, particularly with Belgians and stouts. Some examples include Thin Mint Stout, Red Velvet Stout, Pineappel Tripel, Cucumber Wit, etc.
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