Beer suggestions

If you are fortunate enough to have a good beer store nearby, possibly you could develop a rapport with a trusted and knowledgeable beer "person". German lager, Czech Pils, a huge array of Belgian choices, English Ales, Sierra Nevada covers lots of bases very well, and the sky is the limit. I've always tried what I didn't see the the time before. It helps to truly keep an open mind and not to become posited on one style. Good luck, there's a dizzying choice of wonderful beers at this point in time. Find Tripel Karmeleit, Aventinus, and Gaffel Koelsch.

 

I would stay with "summer" beers in summer. Wits, Hefes, Blondes, Lagers, Pilsners, Saisons, and Pales. In fall, Belgians, ESB's, Ambers, Reds... Stouts and Porters are best in cooler weather, IMHO. Also, find a store that you can buy single bottles or cans and make your own sixer.

 

Tulsa area? Then go to McNellie's and start sampling. OKC area? Then go to McNellie's, Tapwerks, or Republic and start sampling.

 

Beer fests make it a lot easier to learn new styles. After all, you are only committing to 4 oz. at a time, rather than 6x12oz. for some beers if you buy them at a store first. Also, many restaurants and bars give tasters for free before you order, if you ask. This will at least save you from having to down beers you really don't care for.

 

You said choc? Nobody doesn't like Sara Lee and nobody doesn't like Young's Double Chocolate.

 

How close are you to Jenks? I recommend going to the Bier Garten. Can't remember the owners name but he'll hook you up with great recommendations. You could probably just call him up.

 

I would just build/buy as many mixed six packs as I could. That's what I did. And I still do on a regular basis.

 

That's great advice!
Make sure to try your local brews too. There's a sub section of these forums by region that I have found most helpful for just that very thing.

 

Choc is the name of a brewery in Oklahoma (OP's home state) - nothing to do with chocolate-flavored beer.

 

It was lower case so thought it was a description.

 

This is the best porter I have ever had so far. It truly earns its world-class rating on this site.