Just got back from a little beercation to SD. We had a great time, and I especially enjoyed our trip out to Alpine. We've been to a ton of tap rooms and breweries, and they had some of the friendliest, most laid back staff I've ever encountered. We sat at the bar in the restaurant for a good two hours and never once felt rushed or condescended to, despite our obvious tourist appearance. We also got some good tips for other local breweries to visit and I got to try all of the Alpine staples, which was awesome. Even though they make very sought-after beers, it's nice to see that this brewery is still so down to earth and easygoing. Props Alpine! And props to SD in general, we had a great time and almost everyone we met was very friendly. Can't wait to plan a return trip!
I have to agree...The whole establishment is so down to earth. During last years San Diego beer week, it was so packed and the wait for tables was huge with the whole patio wait area equally as full. We had nowhere to sit with our cookie pan of taster glasses, but out of left field we were invited by an employee to sit out back at an employee table not meant for guest. We were very thankful and accepted the offer. Being my 2nd time there I was super stoked to find out after some beer talk it was Shawn McIlhenney and one of the chefs (sorry forgot his name but such a cool dude) who we were kicking it with. I got to pick his brain about Alpine and future plans and even brought out a bottle of Bad Boy from the employee fridge (which wasn't on draft and isn't bottled) to share with us. I was made a fan for life!
I love Alpine. I live 113 miles north (thanks, imaps) but make the trip as frequent as possible because of the great beer and the friendly staff. Always have a great time there.
Yeah! It was awesome. Less awesome that one of my two bottles broke in the checked suitcase, but I'm just glad I finally got to visit. Keep doing your thing Alpine!
Sorry to hear a bottle broke in your suitcase. How was it packed? Were there any issues with TSA in picking up a leaking suitcase at your destination?
I got a bottle of Pure Hoppiness and a bottle of Duet...it was tempting to buy a lot more than that, but we had limited space and I didn't want to buy more than I could consume fresh. I was hoping to get some Nelson but they sold out the day before we arrived. The Duet broke in the suitcase and we had a notice inside from TSA, but the suitcase came out with the rest of the checked bags so that wasn't a problem. I thought I packed pretty well but I probably tried to squeeze one too many bottles inside...they were individually wrapped in bubble wrap and had clothes packed around them. We've used the checked bag/bubble wrap method a few other times and this was the first time we've had any problems. Next time I'll get a shipper to protect a bit better.
Agree with this! Drove down for the first time 3 weeks ago. The tiny bar is full of super friendly, knowledgeable, and industrious staff. Definitely worth the drive. The beers are phenomenal and the town is pleasantly quaint. I came home with a growler of Pure Hoppiness that I'll need to go back and re-fill!
These work great, used them many times... <http://www.thejetbag.com/> I'm up in Alpine most every Wednesday. BM me your address and I'll send you a Nelson & Duet when I get them. Cheers
I just went to Alpine a month ago with my girlfriend for the first time and have to totally agree with the OP. From what I read here I expected all assholes to work there but it was the opposite. I tried every beer they had and took 4 bottles of pure hoppiness & 4 Nelsons home. Wish I got a growler so I could talk myself into making that 3.5 hour, 175 mile drive again soon! Also thanks for mentioning the Jetbag. I think some of these bottles I bring home when flying are worth the extra insurance! p.s. $20 for a 3 pack @ amazon but $12 for a 3 pack at bed, bath, & beyond.
