California Lagers (2024)

I stopped drinking about a month ago, and I’ve been trying out some NA lagers to scratch that itch. I’ve found some surprisingly good ones. Athletic has some solid options, but my top pick right now is this Patagonia and Deschutes collab called Kernza Golden Brew. It drinks like a Helles lager imo. Found it at Whole Foods in the South Bay. For anyone cutting back or looking to switch it up, I’d recommend it. About $10 for a six-pack, and it’s good stuff.

 

Is there really NA Speedway?

 

I have absolutely no rationale for this but I’d like to think that N/A dark beers are better than N/A light beers

 

No to both, but I’m keeping my eyes open for Dark Star. I was shocked to see BA speedway but passed. I’ve mainly dipped my toes in lagers, but I’ll be looking for dark lagers and stouts with the cooler weather.

These well done NA beers have made the transition so much more enjoyable. Well that, and weed. Hit the ball vape at home and crack open a NA lager. Similar experience to drinking with minimal side effects. I do the same when we go out, assuming there are NA options. And lately, there have been. Anyway, hit the pen (Coldfire 10/10) and drink up. I thought I was tipsy/drunk on multiple occasions while smoking and “drinking”.

Obviously not medical advice, but it’s working really well for me. I’m excited to see more NA shelf options and onsite options. Come on Greek Cheek, a helles and Pilsner would be perfect

if you haven’t seen it yet, check out ddb review of na dark star. He compares it to death and taxes. Dear god, I can only hope

 

I had “Just a fine line” by Radiant.it’s one of the best beers that I’ve had in a while, I’d suggest that anyone who wants to familiarize themselves with the noble Saaz hops to give this one a try, it’s 100% Saaz according to Radiant. The hop profile is herbal, a little spicy and also a little fruity.

 

Dark beers are known to “cover up “ some flaws that would be apparent in a light colored beer, so many Brewers first beer at a new brewery is a stout. When Sierra Nevada opened their second brewery , they made the same stout that was the first beer Ken Grossman brewed at Chico.
It seems like the dark malts may hide some of the odd flavors associated with NA beer, so I agree with your rationale.

 

Is that 2024? I have a 2023 4 pack that has an extra year of lagering in my fridge for a side by side.

 

Thanks, I’ll keep my eyes peeled!

 

Breakfast In America!
Yes back on American soil. The wife got the last seat back to SNA while I wait for the 10am flight here at the smaller United Club at SFO. No IPA’s at this smaller club so I opted for the Boston Lager instead of a Stella whatever. This
Samual Adams Boston Lager… actually taste
pretty good after our 10+hr flight from ICN. Fingers crossed I get a seat on the next flight.

 

I have no problem drinking Boston Lager. It’s always a go to when there are no craft options. I’ll even occasionally buy a 12 pack if I see it on sale.

 

I had a couple Sammie's last week in the United lounge myself: they definitely hit the spot!

 

Solaris Tala - German Style Dunkel Lager. This is a collaboration beer with Living Haus Brewing. Malty, robust flavor for a 4.8% abv. Really enjoyed it and will pick up some cans for Thanksgiving.

 

Green Cheek Knowin’ The Basics is another great Schwarzbier. On tap now. No cans, no crowlers. Straight from the tap.