Houston Beer Month - Houston Beer Guide https://houstonbeerguide.com Online beer news and reviews for the city of Houston Sat, 09 Mar 2024 15:32:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.6.13 The meaning of Houston Beer Month https://houstonbeerguide.com/the-meaning-of-houston-beer-month/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/the-meaning-of-houston-beer-month/#comments Sat, 09 Mar 2024 15:31:14 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=6046 What does Houston Beer Month mean to me?  Houston Beer Month means being proud and celebrating being in one of the best beer cities in the world, while having the ability to support local year round! It means going to Vallensons‘, Saloon Door, Backyard and sharing a pint with friends, as we talk about beer

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What does Houston Beer Month mean to me? 

Houston Beer Month means being proud and celebrating being in one of the best beer cities in the world, while having the ability to support local year round!

Roman of Venture Brewing & Matt

It means going to Vallensons‘, Saloon Door, Backyard and sharing a pint with friends, as we talk about beer and life.  

Houston Beer Month means going to Nobi Public House, and Penny’s Beer Garden with my family and being able to sample some of the latest from New Magnolia, St Arnold, 11 Below, Elder Son, or from across the state such as Jester King

It means being part of one the best dang homebrew clubs, The Bay Area Mashtronauts, the current Lone Star Circuit Champions. Not only do we talk about local, and national beer, we brew all things fermented.

Houston Beer Month means sourcing all my brewing supplies at one of the best homebrew stores, Sitta Brew Hub, where you can not only get supplies but sit down and talk about and learn about beer. You are even able to secure some local sourced supplies such as raw honey from Budz Bees Farm.

Matt & Kevin Sitta of Sitta Brew Hub

It means entering some of my homebrews into some of the most competitive homebrew competitions, on some of the most competitive circuits and walking away with a few medals. 

Award winning homebrewers Jonathan and Matt

Houston Beer Month means supporting local brewing content creators such as podcasts like Draught Queens Podcast, Best of Show: The Competition Brewing Podcast, and How Not To Start A Damn Brewery. Watching local Youtuber’s such as Venture Brewing, and Mean Brews

It means going to special community organized events like Houston Beer Guide’s Block Party and experiencing brews from No Label, Back Pew, Spindletap, and many others!

Award winning homebrewers Hannah & Ramon

Houston Beer Month means coming together with friends, family, and complete strangers in all things beer to hang out and have a good time while being responsible and enjoying local brews prepared especially for this reason.

It means being able to go to my local store that stocks beers from places that are less than 50 miles from me and not only have a selection of styles but breweries that others across the country would be jealous of! 

Houston we have beer, we know beer, let’s keep Houston a Beer Town, get out there and support as local as you can!

Cheers Y’all!

Matt Jaggers

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True Anomaly and Senate Avenue Bring Additional Notoriety with Awards from 2024 Texas Craft Brewers Cup https://houstonbeerguide.com/true-anomaly-and-senate-avenue-bring-additional-notoriety-with-awards-from-2024-texas-craft-brewers-cup/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/true-anomaly-and-senate-avenue-bring-additional-notoriety-with-awards-from-2024-texas-craft-brewers-cup/#respond Sun, 03 Mar 2024 15:33:54 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=6018 The greater Houston area came back from 2024 Texas Craft Brewers Guild Brewers Cup with enough awards to fill up a large trophy case. Among the litany of gold, silver and bronze Bolo ties signifying the excellent craft beer brewing in our own backyards were two issued for special achievement in the State.  Senate Avenue

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The greater Houston area came back from 2024 Texas Craft Brewers Guild Brewers Cup with enough awards to fill up a large trophy case. Among the litany of gold, silver and bronze Bolo ties signifying the excellent craft beer brewing in our own backyards were two issued for special achievement in the State. 

Senate Avenue Brewing brought home the gold Bolo in the first ever Legislative Pro-Am hosted by the Craft Brewers Guild. The award had 16 breweries enter in conjunction with the Texas House Representatives from the brewery’s respective districts. Senate Avenue worked with Representative Lacey Hull and her staff on the submission for District 138 to choose a style of beer that was most representative of the people that live in the district. which skews heavily of Latin descent. The idea that was chosen was aptly named House District 138 Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout. Owner Andrew Mitcham credits his staff, especially Kitchen Manager Jessica Cerro, for their contributions for the recipe. Cerro, a native of Acapulco Mexico, contributed by offering her family’s storied recipe for Mexican hot chocolate to be the basis for the stout. 

Owner Andrew Mitcham – Photo by Jackie Von Panda

Mitchem also credits brewer Adam Millard for helping come up with a unique stout recipe to work along with Cerra’s hot chocolate to create the winning submission.

“Adam brewed it, then it went to fermentation. Towards the end of fermentation, we started to add the spices to it like cinnamon, vanilla, cocoa nibs and a little bit of cayenne. We were a little nervous about adding too much cayenne because we didn’t want it to be like our pepper beer, so we added half of what we would normally add for cayenne and it ended up being the perfect amount.”

Andrew Mitcham
Photos courtesy of the Office of Representative Lacey Hull 

Representative Hull commented as well on the award, saying “I was excited to collaborate with Senate Avenue on creating this Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout as our House District 138 entry to the inaugural Pro-Am competition! I am proud to represent HD 138 that encompasses west Houston and Jersey Village, one of the most diverse districts in Houston and the state. Senate Avenue is a great small business partner not only in this (competition) but in our community”. Representative Hull went on to add, “I look forward to continuing to work with them (Senate Avenue) and hopefully defending our title next year!”

Photo courtesy of True Anomaly Brewing

Not to be outdone, True Anomaly Brewing has quickly established a dynasty of sorts in the state by winning not just four total Bolos in this year’s competition (three gold and one bronze) but most importantly repeating as Brewery of the Year in the 600+ Barrel Group. This is True Anomaly’s second time being named the 600+ Barrel Brewery of the Year and also their second in a row. Per the Texas Craft Brewers Guild website, the criteria for winning Brewery of the Year are based off of each medal awarded at the Brewers Cup, with one point for a bronze Bolo, two points for a silver, and three points for a gold.  

True Anomaly won four medals at this year’s Brewers Cup, including three gold and one bronze Bolo. The winning beer submissions this year for True Anomaly were a gold Bolo for White Dwarf (American & European Sour), a gold Bolo for Flanders Redux (Wood & Barrel Aged Sour & Brett Beer), a bronze Bolo for Sea of Waves (also Wood & Barrel Aged Sour & Brett Beer), and finally a gold Bolo for Fireflies (Experimental, Hybrid & Specialty Beer). This after True Anomaly won 5 total Bolos in 2023 (three gold and two silver).  Co-Owner of True Anomaly Michael Duckworth attributes the accolades to the work of the entire team, especially considering many of their accolades are in categories for beer styles that are often time intensive to produce and are difficult to master to an award-winning level.  

With a new production facility and tap room under construction currently with hopes to open to the public later this year, the future is bright for True Anomaly. With a bright future and being two-time defending Brewery of the Year in the state comes high expectations. Duckworth added that he felt the brewery was more than up to the task of continuing to produce excellent beer, but also continuing to challenge itself to not accept the successes of the recent past.   

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Keeping the #HoustonBeer Train Rolling with Houston Beer Month https://houstonbeerguide.com/full-steam-ahead-keeping-the-houstonbeer-train-rolling/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/full-steam-ahead-keeping-the-houstonbeer-train-rolling/#respond Thu, 15 Feb 2024 20:39:02 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5926 Grab your ticket, find your seat, and buckle up. It’s time to board the Houston beer train. With the closures of several local Houston breweries and businesses in the last two years, it’s time to face the fact that craft beer has derailed on it’s track to success. In the landscape of beverage culture, craft

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Grab your ticket, find your seat, and buckle up. It’s time to board the Houston beer train.

With the closures of several local Houston breweries and businesses in the last two years, it’s time to face the fact that craft beer has derailed on it’s track to success.

In the landscape of beverage culture, craft beer once stood as a beacon of innovation, taste, and independence. However, as the industry has grown, it has begun to lose its essence, and in many ways, its very soul. The demise of craft beer isn’t solely due to external factors; rather, it’s a result of the very people who championed it – the craft beer fans themselves.

There’s something deeply intimate about the connection between consumers and local craft breweries, a lot like we see in the cherished bonds of real love and relationships. Much like nurturing a romantic relationship, supporting local craft breweries requires dedication, loyalty, and a willingness to invest time and resources. Just as lovers rely on each other for support and encouragement, local craft breweries depend on the backing of their local community to flourish and sustain.

These breweries aren’t just purveyors of beer; they’re creators of community, craftsmanship, and culture. They bring people from all walks of life together, bonded only through the liquids that they drink. Amidst the challenges posed by mass-produced alternatives and economic uncertainty, the need for steadfast support has never been more pressing.

So ask yourself, how did we navigate away from the days of before? Where did we go wrong? Where did my passion for local beer go and why did it leave in the first place?

Did the hype train cause a crash and burn? Did the quest for the latest limited-release or hyped-up collaboration becoming more important than the quality and craftsmanship behind the beer itself, causing the lack of interest/ burn out effect we see today? Did the single track mindset stifle innovation leaving you bored with the products that are being offered today?

However, all hope is not lost. Craft beer can still reclaim its essence and regain its former glory by returning to its roots. This is not the end of the line. Support from the community has always been the engine driving craft breweries forward. Like a train stalled on its tracks, the craft beer community must pause to reconsider its trajectory and rediscover the essence of what made craft beer so beloved in the first place. We know craft beer isn’t dead; it’s still thriving in the hearts of those who appreciate its uniqueness and character.

The question is now ‘will you pledge your support back to the local craft community and help our city’s scene get back on track?’

Join us as we kick off a new wave of Houston beer with the return of Houston Beer Month. Typically in August of each year, we decided that this initiative simply can not wait and breweries/beer businesses need your help now.

Here are a few ideas on how you can help get involved for Houston Beer Month.

  1. Social media engagement: Follow your favorite breweries on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok. Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing to help increase their visibility and reach.
  2. Word of mouth recommendations: Spread the word about your favorite breweries to friends, family, and colleagues. Personal recommendations carry a lot of weight and can introduce new customers to the craft beer scene.
  3. Attend brewery events: Participate in brewery events such as tap takeovers, beer releases, and brewery tours. These events help foster a sense of community and support for local breweries. We have a list of all the cool events happening in March on our website. Help us find more event and spread the word.
  4. Volunteer at festivals: Many craft beer festivals rely on volunteers to help with various tasks such as pouring beer, setting up, and cleaning up. There are several beer festivals happening in March – check em out.
  5. Write reviews: Leave positive reviews for your favorite breweries on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Untappd. Honest and positive reviews can help attract new customers and boost the brewery’s reputation.
  6. Educate yourself and others: Take the time to learn about different beer styles, brewing techniques, and the history of craft beer. Share your knowledge with others and help foster a greater appreciation for craft beer.
  7. Support homebrewers: Encourage and support homebrewers in your community. Attend homebrewing events, offer feedback on their beers, and help promote their creations.
  8. Promote responsible drinking: Encourage responsible drinking habits within the craft beer community. Advocate for moderation and safe consumption practices to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the industry.
  9. Support beer-related charities: Look for breweries or beer-related charities that support causes you care about. Whether it’s environmental conservation, social justice, or community development, donating to these organizations can have a positive impact on both the industry and society.
  10. Participate in beer swaps: Organize or participate in beer trades with friends or fellow craft beer enthusiasts. Trading beers allows you to try new brews without spending additional money while fostering a sense of camaraderie within the community.
  11. Offer feedback to breweries: Provide constructive feedback to breweries about their beers and customer experience. Whether through social media, email, or in-person discussions, sharing your thoughts helps breweries understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
  12. Support local businesses that serve craft beer: Patronize bars, restaurants, and bottle shops that prioritize offering a diverse selection of craft beers. Your support helps these businesses thrive and creates demand for craft beer in the broader market.
  13. Advocate for craft beer culture: Be an ambassador for craft beer culture in your community. Houston Beer Guide is always looking for contributors to share their passion for craft beer with others, introduce newcomers to the world of craft beer, and advocate for its continued growth and recognition as a cultural and culinary art form. Email us if you interested in becoming a contributor.

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Grateful for HOU – Celebrating Houston Beer Month https://houstonbeerguide.com/grateful-for-hou-celebrating-houston-beer-month/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/grateful-for-hou-celebrating-houston-beer-month/#respond Wed, 02 Aug 2023 00:07:01 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=5587 August is for supporting local beer. Why? Because we said so. *wink. Plus, have you taken a look at the craft beer scene in our city lately? Ooof, it’s rough out there and this industry can use your support yet again. With new breweries closing (Black Page Brewing Co.), the lack of public excitement about

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Houston Beer Month is here!

August is for supporting local beer.

Why? Because we said so. *wink. Plus, have you taken a look at the craft beer scene in our city lately? Ooof, it’s rough out there and this industry can use your support yet again.

With new breweries closing (Black Page Brewing Co.), the lack of public excitement about enjoying craft beer on social media, and the ever-shrinking beer budget that we ALL have been impacted by – it’s no surprise that these local businesses depend on your support to simply exist. Craft beer sales are down nationwide (yet again), and our city has undoubtedly been affected in more ways than one since 2020. So how does this change in beer buying habits impact the local craft beer business? This is a great conversation starter to have with any local brewery owner. Rising costs and reduced traffic in the taproom are all points covered but one commonality brewery owners often echo is you. As a local beer supporter, you are the reason they are still operating and serving beer. They are beyond grateful for your continued support every time you visit or buy their products.

What is Houston Beer Month anyways?

Jerry Garcia once said “People need celebration in their life. It’s part of what it means to be human. We need magic and bliss and power, myth, and celebration in our lives. And music is a good way to encapsulate a lot of it.”. I like to believe that this is statement is true, and the element of bliss I take from this is enjoying a delicious craft beer beverage made by awesome people I call friends. I enjoy this, and so do you.

In many craft beer cities, you will often see a week-long celebration of local beer being promoted generally in the style of “This City Beer Week“. Houston is so large; we figured a month-long celebration was more appropriate for our big style. We hope by spotlighting this city’s great beer by creating focus to supporting local beer and expand the message that Houston Beer matters, and it’s here to stay.

What can I do to help?

August is the time to drink up and speak up for this industry.

We are asking all Houston beer supporters to show mad love to their local breweries in celebration all month by sharing their social media posts, tagging locally made beer on social media and showing love for all things Houston beer any way they can! Visit any Houston area brewery, buy beer to go or taproom merch, talk to a bartender, make a new friend. Your presence matters.

During the month of August, Houston Beer Guide accepts guest community contributors for those that want to share their love for Houston beer with us. Write about Houston beer, and we will give you a platform to share it with others. Check out the quick writing guidelines below and tell us why you love Houston with beer reviews, photography and stories of great craft beer and comradery. Don’t forget to tag us at @HoustonBeer and use hashtag #HoustonBeerMonth for reposts.

Guest Contributor Writing Guidelines for August

  • Articles should be at least 2-3 paragraphs max
  • Articles should be focused on your honest experience about beer or brewery, ideally positive with an engaging story or subject.
  • Must include an original photo with our article. Submitting multiple photos is also accepted.
  • Email your submissions to cheers@HoustonBeerGuide.com – along with your full name and photo of yourself. Don’t forget to share your social media handles.

#HoustonBeer Block Party returns! Tickets on sale now!

Tailgate style block party meets beer festival. Let’s go!

The #Houstonbeer summer event of the year!

Enjoy beer samples from 12 breweries, live music, local food and street vendors. This limited ticket festival is designed so that you can get to know other members of this great community in a laid back block party setting – much like you would experience getting to know your neighbors. Pull up a chair, pop up your 10×10, put on those flip flops and let’s hang out.

Read about the full event details here: Houston Beer Block Party – Houston Beer Guide

2023 Participating Breweries:

(VIP) Saloon Door Brewery – Webster TX

(VIP) Back Pew Brewing – Porter TX

(VIP) Vallensons’ Brewing Co – Pearland TX

(VIP) No Label Brewing – Katy TX

(VIPTurkey Forrest Brewing – Houston TX

Backyard Brewing Company – Dickinson TX

Excalibur Brewing – Spring TX

Astral Brewing – Houston TX

Galveston Island Brewing – Galveston TX

Ingenious Brewing Company – Humble TX

Texas Leaguer Brewing Company – Missouri City TX

Beer Festival Charity Fundraiser with Southern Smoke Foundation

We are so very GRATEFUL for this beer community.

This year, we decided to create a fundraiser to give back to the food and beverage industry’s hard-working beer workers. This year, the benefiter is Houston founded non-profit organization, Southern Smoke Foundation. The Southern Smoke Foundation supports members of the food and beverage industry in crisis nationwide through emergency relief funding and provides accessible, no-cost mental health services through its mental health program, Behind You. 

❤ This initiative is so important to us that we decided to make it extra special by offering a unique gift to anyone that donates. ✨ Donate $20 or more to this cause using the link below and you will recieve with this unique event poster designed by award winning beer artist Chris Hernandez as a special thank you!

Donate today:

LINK: Southern Smoke Foundation | Kindful

Charity Fundraiser, Event Poster Gift

Join us in celebrating this city’s great beer and amazing community with Houston Beer. Reach out to our contributor team by emailing cheers@houstonbeerguide.com. See you at the block party!

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Out of this world micheladas w/Space City Snax https://houstonbeerguide.com/out-of-this-world-micheladas-w-space-city-snax/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/out-of-this-world-micheladas-w-space-city-snax/#respond Fri, 19 Aug 2022 02:32:51 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4857 When life gives you limes, make micheladas! The word “michelada” is a Spanish portmanteau that combines “chela” (slang term for beer) with “ada” for “helada,” meaning cold, and “mi” for mine — basically “my cold beer”. I used to not be a fan of micheladas until I tried a michelada made with mix from Space City

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When life gives you limes, make micheladas!

The word “michelada” is a Spanish portmanteau that combines “chela” (slang term for beer) with “ada” for “helada,” meaning cold, and “mi” for mine — basically “my cold beer”. I used to not be a fan of micheladas until I tried a michelada made with mix from Space City Snax. If you order a michelada in the U.S., you’ll likely receive a mexican lager spiked with spicy V8 like tomato juice, hot sauce, and lime at a minimum. Just like craft beer, micheladas flavors and additions have exploded in the market with fun toppers like bacon, mexican candy, and even sliders! I like to say that micheladas are to beer, the same way a bloody mary is to vodka where it’s not just the mix that adds value to the beverage. In many ways, there is no wrong way to dress up a michelada and Space City Snax has lots of options for you to explore so that you can create your very own michelada medley.

Recently, I enjoyed the lime michelada with Turkey Forrest Brewing’s Lightning Strike cream ale and dressed my michelada fully loaded with cucumbers, a pretzel stick, olives, drips sauce and some additional spices to top it all off. I don’t know what I enjoyed more the beer with the michelada mix or taking the fruit off and eating it with the drip sauce. This is a drink you can literally make a meal from and makes a great addition to brunch. Space City Snax motto is ‘The Spice is Nice’ and let me be the first to tell you – the motto holds true. 

Michelada at Turkey Forrest Brewing

For me, the spice level was just right, not too spicy but enough to give it a bite of heat when you hit half way point of the drink. If bold spice isn’t your thing, there’s a line up of less spicy forward options like mango, pineapple, orange, or strawberry. You want something tangy? They offer pickle, cucumber, and lime. They even have a “tropickle” (a tropical pickle mix) that a local brewery made a pickle beer with and let me tell you it was one of the best pickle beers on the market. They even have a new beer collaboration coming very soon with Turkey Forrest Brewing that I’m very excited about. I hinted about this in my last article. Give it a read.

Selection of michelada mix

Space City Snax offers a wide variety of flavors they carry for purchase so you can make micheladas at home. I included a menu of their line up below of amazing mixes, rim dips, and snacks they offer. My personal favorite is the spicy gummies they offer as they pair especially well with lagers.. I’ve included a list of where you can find Space City Snax around town below for your reference. One of my go-to spots to pick up mix is at Big Owl because they have the Mango Chamoy michelada flavor. It has become my favorite way to mix up my beer drinking routine lately. Interested in other options or got an idea? Send Space City Snax a message on his Instagram page for more info.

Space City Snax will be featured as a community vendor during the Houston Beer Block Party. Ask your local brewery about Space City Snax, as Adrian will often be seen behind the bar mixing up new creations for you during vendor events. This michelada mix works well with nearly every light beer but don’t be surprised if you see folks mixing with IPAs, wheats and other styles of beer.

Space City Snax Menu
Purchase locations – Space City Snax

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Middie Back Amber Ale from Elder Son Brewery in the Heights https://houstonbeerguide.com/middie-back-amber-ale-from-elder-son-brewery-in-the-heights/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/middie-back-amber-ale-from-elder-son-brewery-in-the-heights/#respond Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:02:44 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4850 In my personal opinion, I feel Houston has been lacking in American amber style beer options. What was once a booming style has been dwindled down to just a small handful of breweries offering a solid year round amble ale. I found what is definitely a contender for my favorite amber in Middie Back from Elder Son Brewing.

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In my personal opinion, I feel Houston has been lacking in American amber style beer options. What was once a booming style has been dwindled down to just a small handful of breweries offering a solid year round amble ale. I found what is definitely a contender for my favorite amber in Middie Back from Elder Son Brewing. Middie Back is classically brewed to style and provides a crisp and smooth drinking experience that balances a sweet malt flavor with mild caramel note with a nice dry finish. Very good! I’ll try not to talk too much about the experience as I don’t want to give spoilers but if you love amber ales as much as I do then you’ll know the anticipation of ordering an amber and the excitement of waiting to see how it stacks up. Middie Back can be found on tap at Elder Son year round and for that, I’m thankful. Robert, owner and head brewer, tells me the story of how he wrote the recipe on the plane trip from Colorado as he had the exact same feeling of wanting a good clean amber. You can see the passion in his eyes as he relives the moment when he tells the story. Maybe it’s just the beer or exhaustion causing that glare – we won’t ever know.

Middie Back – Amber at Elder Son Brewery

If I’m being honest I’d say the part I’m most excited about is that Middie Back will be offered in cans to go soon. Don’t get me wrong you can get a crowler to go but there’s something special about having multiple cans in a cooler that really feels special. Middie Back will be sold in cans to go from the brewery towards the end of the August so swing by, try out this micro brewery in the Heights. It’s Houston Beer Month after all – why not support one of the newest breweries in town. Elder Son is nestled on North Shepherd just across the street from the popular Kroger on 11th in a cozy air conditioned tap room.  Elder Son hosts a run club every Tuesday from 6:30-7 pm and offer multiple distances runs for all types of fitness runners. There is also a pizza shop that opened up right next door – so feel free to skip the run and make a bee line to the bar top for a sit with the locals.

Can’t make it out to the taproom in the Heights – come out and meet Robert (and Darnell!) on our VIP Brewers panel at the Houston Beer Block Party. Tickets are available at shop.houstonbeerguide.com.

See you there!

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A taste of the tamarind sour at Turkey Forrest Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/a-taste-of-tamarind-sour-turkey-forrest-brewing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/a-taste-of-tamarind-sour-turkey-forrest-brewing/#respond Thu, 11 Aug 2022 23:59:24 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4834 Agua frescas have long been a popular way to keep cool in the summers for many mexican american children and Turkey Forrest Brewing has taken that idea and made it into something that will bring you right back to childhood. Already in their line up of fresca beers include Northside Red a hibiscus (jamaica) sour, Issavibe

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Agua frescas have long been a popular way to keep cool in the summers for many mexican american children and Turkey Forrest Brewing has taken that idea and made it into something that will bring you right back to childhood. Already in their line up of fresca beers include Northside Red a hibiscus (jamaica) sour, Issavibe – a pineapple (piña) sour, a horchata stout, and more recently the re-release of the tamarind (tamarindo) sour. The tamarindo sour is a combination of sweet and tart flavors – reminding me of the popular Mexican glass bottled sodas they were envisioned after. If you’ve never had this Asia and Africa fruit called tamarind, it’s best described by an apricot like flavor, a little tangy with a molasses like finishing taste. The tartness makes you want to click your tongue and exclaim NOICE! The tamarindo may be my favorite of the sours offered but the collection of agua frescas line up are all very balanced. The beer has a light body and a mouthfeel that waters your taste buds making it perfect for this hot Houston weather. Speaking of hot, I got an insider tip they’re working on something very special with our favorite michelada supplier – Space City Snax! Cucumber lime anyone?

Tamarindo Sour at Turkey Forrest Brewing – Big Owl Craft Beer House


Agua frescas inspired beers are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to diversity at Big Owl Craft Beer House. The fact that both the brewery (Turkey Forrest Brewing) and Big Owl have turned their love for craft beer and love for the hispanic culture into a fun and embracing environment makes it a place to catch familiar faces of the beer community hanging out. The bar hosts Millennial Loteria every Tuesdays at 7 pm for the chance to win prizes from different breweries or if music night life if your thing, join them for their Tejano nights that are held there frequently. Rumor has it Big Owl and Turkey Forrest Brewing even have a luchador that roams the halls from time to time to greet people enjoying the beers and spreading the joy of craft beer while embodying the spirit behind their line of beers they craft with so much pride. 

Hibiscus Sour & Tamarindo Sour

I really love stopping out at Turkey Forrest Brewing located inside Big Owl Brew House and the bar staff always makes me feel like right at home. Hanging out in the air conditioned taproom for hours at a time to catch a game or just catch up with friends is a routine activity I find myself going out of my way to do often. If you happened to catch an Astros game there, make sure to remind Louie the Astros are better than the Dodgers. He needs a friendly but constant reminder of who we beat to win the World Series in 2017.

Anyways, go check out the full selection of #Houstonbeer rotating at Turkey Forrest. It doesn’t disappoint. Turkey Forrest Brewing will also be present at the Houston Beer Block party happening August 27th – swing by their block and try their beer. Get your tickets online today!

Also, spoiler alert, the luchador is me.

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5 Houston area IPAs you should be drinking on National IPA Day https://houstonbeerguide.com/5-houston-area-ipas-you-should-be-drinking-on-national-ipa-day/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/5-houston-area-ipas-you-should-be-drinking-on-national-ipa-day/#respond Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:36:44 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4797 The first Thursday of August is always National IPA Day, another made up beer holiday that we all love to celebrate. This year I have continued to enjoy this style on a regular basis, spreading the love along side more hop balanced lagers. Whether you are a fan of this hop forward style or not,

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The first Thursday of August is always National IPA Day, another made up beer holiday that we all love to celebrate. This year I have continued to enjoy this style on a regular basis, spreading the love along side more hop balanced lagers. Whether you are a fan of this hop forward style or not, IPAs still remain the most dominant and consumed style in the craft beer scene. Nearly all breweries in the Houston area have brewed at least one in their portfolio and new variations of the style are still cropping up. Cold IPAs and india pale lagers have taken the forefront in recent media while hazy ipa seem to keep the title of fan favorite and Instagram’s beer hype king. I was not always a fan of this style as it took me about 2 years of trying different IPAs before I could come around to it. So if you are new to craft beer and still don’t understand why anyone would enjoy drinking these sometimes bitter bombs, keep trying! I will assure you, there is an IPA out there for you too! This style is diverse and if your palate changes like mine did – you won’t ever be the same. Hop heads for life.

Here are my top IPAs picks of 2022 brewed right here in Houston and perfect to celebrate with on National IPA Day!

Heavy Hands Double IPA – Spindletap Brewery

Welcome back for the second year in a row! If you read my Valentines letter to this beer, you know my mad obsession with Heavy Hands DIPA from Spindletap Brewing. This beer pours milky bright yellow with vibrant hops qualities present on all corners. This IPA has a strong citrus kick making it the true definition of Texas juice bomb! It’s medium body and soft mouthfeel continues to delight my hop head senses with each sip. This beer packs a heavy punch at a hefty 8% and if you aren’t careful – this beer will knock yo ass out! Cans are generally available in the taproom year around and local distro markets like HEB. I recommend loading up on the case special at the brewery, because the 6 month shelf life is nice. Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself. You won’t want this hoppy adventure to end. Cheers to the heavy weight champ of Houston hazy beers!

Heavy Hands by Spindletap Brewing – Custom glassware from Drete Customs

Doc Hoppiday Hazy IPA – Saloon Door Brewing

Doc Hoppiday pairs nice with dice games.

This beer is my hoppy huckleberry. Coming in at 6.8%, this hazy New England style IPA from Saloon Door Brewing in Webster is an ultra smooth drinkable IPA with all the juicy characteristics hop heads crave. With all Citra hops and its bold tropical juice notes, this beer finishes dry with a slight hop bite on the end. You can always find Doc at the grocery stores (HEB and Total Wine for sure!). This week, I noticed a proper decision was made in the beer aisle.

A bag of Takis left behind for a 6 of Doc Hoppiday. HEB Pearland Parkway

Yellow Rose Smash IPA – Lone Pint Brewery

It wouldn’t be proper to leave out this Texas classic, Yellow Rose IPA from Magnolia’s Lone Pint Brewery. To be honest, I stepped away from this beer for a while due to some inconsistent quality concerns over the last two years but once I heard it was back in full swing and in environmentally safe 6 packs, I jumped back on the juicy train.

Named after a true Texas heroine, this SMaSH, Single Malt and Single Hop, IPA uses a butt ton of malt and hop released in 2012 called Mosaic (HBC 369). Whole cone mosaic hops are used for bittering, flavoring, and aroma in the kettle and is massively dry hopped for this beer’s mega citrus aroma. Believe it or not, this is still a fan favorite in the beer crowds with a dedicated following that I expect to see around for years to come.

Hanging out with Channing, Scott and a Yellow Rose IPA at the Regal Beagle in Friendswood

Tanuki IPA – Back Pew Brewing

It’s easy to get lost in amazement by all the eye catching labels in craft beer but don’t skip over this core IPA from Back Pew Brewing in Porter Texas. Tanuki is brewed with a split grist of Pilsner/Maris Otter malt with cold-whirlpool Azacca/Sultana/Comet hops giving this beer 35 IBU of punchy citrus and tropical fruit flavors. It’s then fermented with a Kveik yeast for added pineapple pop before dry hopping near the saturation point of 2.2 lbs/bbl of the 3 hops above. It’s filtered crystal clear and is a super easy drinking citrus slightly piney packed IPA. Tanuki cuts you down to size on a mellow 6.4% ABV. You will be surprised how well the juice qualities and grassy notes balance out on this beauty.

Tanuki IPA, a real patio pounder from Back Pew Brewing

Mini Boss IPA – Eureka Heights Brewing Co.

Launched in 2017, Mini Boss from Eureka Heights Brewing Co. has established itself as what I would call a classic Houston IPA. This double dry-hopped IPA is jammed full of citrus and tropical notes with Citra and Mosaic hops joining forces in this fruity IPA. This beer makes a great pair to gaming nights with buddies, a night out in Downtown with the friends or relaxing at your favorite camp site. You can normally find this beer widely available at most bars in download alongside equally great Eureka Heights offerings. Beer so good, you might even want to score a 19.2oz can to enjoy all by yourself. Do it, we won’t judge you.

Mini Boss IPA – Dank and Juice

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While you are at it, tell us what you are enjoying on this fine IPA day in Houston Texas! Hoppy IPA day, yall!

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Yup! Dang ole good beer from Back Pew Brewing https://houstonbeerguide.com/yup-dang-ole-good-beer-from-back-pew-brewing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/yup-dang-ole-good-beer-from-back-pew-brewing/#respond Wed, 03 Aug 2022 03:07:05 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4732 Nothing says Texas like King of the Hill and independent beer. I’m very fortunate to have what I believe is the best lager producing brewery in Houston so close to where I live. My wife Nicole and I have spent many days enjoying beers at Back Pew Brewing in Porter Texas. Out of all the

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Nothing says Texas like King of the Hill and independent beer. I’m very fortunate to have what I believe is the best lager producing brewery in Houston so close to where I live. My wife Nicole and I have spent many days enjoying beers at Back Pew Brewing in Porter Texas. Out of all the beers created there, this is one that is true to her heart and she frequently asks me about it when it’s not in season. She was more excited this year when we found out they were canning it for distribution and the name was updated from “Yup” to “King of the Helles”. The label art was created by Matt Lopez, a local digital artist featuring a few recognizable Back Pew staff and owners.

Grocery store haul of my wife’s favorite beer from Back Pew Brewing

When I ask my wife why she loves this beer so much more above all the other great lagers made at this brewery, she states simply “it’s so well balanced. It’s light, easy to drink yet malty enough to have a multi dimension flavor above other beers. It’s a great introduction to craft beer for someone who is new to beer or drinks common domestic options.” She was not always a fan of craft beer and this was one of the beers that made her realize that not all beer is created equally. You know it’s truly special when a beer hits on all cylinders. One of my favorite memories is the watching her eyes light up after the first sip from my pint and immediately shouted “Wow – I thought I hated beer. This is good!”

Nicole and her favorite beer

A beer so good Hank Hill would give up Alamo for it in the alley.

So clean Dale would make a conspiracy theory about them using it to control you!

Next time you’re in the brewery ask head brewer Bobby Harl about his pocket grain and squirrel tactics.

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Houston Beer Month is here! Wait, is this still a thing? https://houstonbeerguide.com/houston-beer-month-is-here-wait-is-this-still-a-thing/ https://houstonbeerguide.com/houston-beer-month-is-here-wait-is-this-still-a-thing/#respond Tue, 02 Aug 2022 02:51:22 +0000 https://houstonbeerguide.com/?p=4742 Of course it is, you silly goose! Yeah….we just made it up. So what? Isn’t that how all great ideas are started anyways? In deemed craft beer cities across the nation, it’s common to see a week-long schedule of events and things to do around town.  These beer weeks are catered breweries hosting taproom events,

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Houston Beer Month is in full swing!

Of course it is, you silly goose!

Yeah….we just made it up. So what? Isn’t that how all great ideas are started anyways?

In deemed craft beer cities across the nation, it’s common to see a week-long schedule of events and things to do around town.  These beer weeks are catered breweries hosting taproom events, locals-only pours/taproom takeovers at local beer bars and the loyal beer drinkers (both residents and tourist travelers) celebrating the delicious beer we have to offer.  With being the largest city in Texas and the ever expanding melting pot of styles selection in beer, we have no choice but to go BIG with a month long celebration, sticking by the place we call home.  

Wanna get involved?  That’s easy!  Drink up and speak up! 

We are asking all Houston beer folk to show mad love to their local breweries in celebration all month by sharing their social media posts, tagging locally made beer on their socials and show love for all things Houston beer! Houston Beer Guide is also accepting guest community contributors all month for those that want to share their love for Houston beer with us. We are happy to feature your work and are excited to hear your perspective. Check out our writing guidelines below and tell us why you love Houston with beer reviews, photography and stories of great craft beer and comradery. Don’t forget to tag us at @HoustonBeer and use hashtag #HoustonBeerMonth for reposts and giveaways! 

Breweries! Tell us about your upcoming Houston Beer Month events – We will share it with our readers as a special thank you for contributing to Houston Beer Month. 

In the meantime, help us get the word out and encourage your local Houston brewery/bars to get involved.  After all, it’s a celebration of all the amazing beer served in this city!  As beer fans, we hope you will join us year after year in this deserving endeavor in support of Houston beer.  Once August is completed into planning next year, our work continues on to grow this but we gotta start somewhere. It’s time we put our city in the spotlight it deserves. 

Houston Beer Month and Houston Beer Guide marketing assets are available upon request by email at cheers@houstonbeerguide.com.

Cheers Houston!

Guest Contributor Writing Guidelines for August

  • Articles should be at least 2-3 paragraphs max
  • Articles should be focused on your honest experience about beer or brewery, ideally positive with an engaging story or subject
  • Must include an original photo with our article. Submitting multiple photos is also accepted
  • We are publishing articles daily for the month of August – email your submissions to cheers@HoustonBeerGuide.com along with your full name, city of residence and featured photo of yourself.

Did you hear about our party yet? Tickets on sale today!

Tailgate style block party meets beer festival. Let’s go!

Check out these cool memories from 2021 Houston Beer Month.

Ronnie’s first article as guest contributor – https://houstonbeerguide.com/beer-review-2021-samson-in-a-barrel-from-galveston-island-brewing/
Just a normal evening at our local beer spot. The Regal Beagle – Nobi Sandwiches.
Getting the 411 on beer events with brewery owners. Lori Kauniste – Vallensons’ Brewing Co.
Drinking less domestic beers. Marcus Wunderle – Baa Baa Brewhouse
Supporting local small businesses – Anita E. –
Gearing up for Oktoberfest just in time for Back Pew Brewing beer releases
Pink Boots Hop Blend selections. oh my! https://www.pinkbootssociety.org/
Beer and music = a match made in heaven. Art Can IPA – Saint Arnold Brewing Company at The Heights Theater – Ian Moore
Getting creative with beer at Saloon Door Brewery
Checking out new breweries. Turkey Forrest Brewing Co.
Enjoying National IPA Day – Doc Hoppiday Hazy IPA – Saloon Door Brewing

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