Have an uncle down in El Paso and was wondering if there were any decent liquor stores within a reasonable drive. He has always been willing to bring some things up, but don't think he would be willing to do the 7-8 hour drive to Austin/San Antonio. Edit: Can this get moved to the Southwest?
Spec's has a good selection but I think they hide all the good stuff in the back. i had to ask for Bomb! As it wasnt on display.
If you're an IPA fan, have him go to Side Door or Billy Crews and get you some La Cumbre Elevated. They have New Mexico Distribution at those two stores in El Paso, in case you're looking for anything only available there. Specs Sunland Park is definitely the right answer for Texas distribution. An older thread on this topic...... http://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/tucson-el-paso-beer-stores.139566/ And here is Seek-A-Brew (if you're not already familiar with it) to find breweries that you can't get. http://seekabrew.com/distro/compare.html If you want to tell us your favorite style, we can give you some better ideas of what to have him get you. Our services may be paid for in Surly.
Good to know, I will let him know about the three stores mentioned. Wouldn't mind having him pick up some La Cumbre and Santa Fe if he can find it. Pretty much like anything that isn't Wheat/Belgian.
A few recommendations that you know will be fresh at the Specs are St Arnold Endeavor in four packs (just started putting them in 4s) and Real Ale Four Squared (fresh seasonal). For a stout, maybe some Southern Star Buried Hatchet. Those should all be on the shelf. Bomb! is awesome if they have it, but you might throw your uncle for a loop having him buy you a $8 12 ounce bottle. For non-Texas stuff that you don't get, anything from Odell or Uinta is good and easy to find. Look through the reviews and pick. There are tons of other great Texas beers, but I'm betting they don't make it to El Paso.
Two EP BAs I've had good experiences with: @decadance @Elprico @HKemhorns already laid it out for you tmk.
Pretty much what everyone said. We don't get much, but a short trip across the border to NM will get you Elevated, and it is worth it.
Tell him to try the western beverage on montwood and joe battle...they have a pretty nice selection and unlike specs they have more than one beer guy around...saw some prairie wine noir the other day
