Around this time of year there are always a lot of holiday parties to go to. Luckily most I go to every year are held by people that have similar taste in beer and people bring a pretty good selection others not so much. The point of going to these is not about the beer but I do like having a solid brew I can enjoy but also one that is more universal and that others may enjoy if I bring. So I have a few questions Id like some feed back on. What are some beers that I could pick up a few 6 packs or a case of and bring that might go over well with most or at least a few casual beer drinkers and wont go to waste? I was thinking celebration perhaps Whats everyones opinion on bringing maybe a larger format bottle of something unique to share knowing the majority wont want to try it? selfish? no big deal?
If other people dont want something you are sharing, that's not being selfish. That being said, how bout a magnum of Anchor Christmas?
Celebration is probably a good call. Most people have probably heard of Sierra Nevada due to the relative ubiquity of SNPA. Also, the name is evocative of the season. I have actually had pretty good success with 750 ml corked bottles of things like Saison Dupont, because they'll usually catch the attention of wine drinkers because of the design of the bottle.
I think this is a great idea, when people see the size of the bottle they will know that is is something different. Just let them know that it's a beer not to be chugged . If they all end up hating it, you will have a nice bottle to help you be "that Guy" at the party.
This what you are forgetting. To bring something for yourself to drink because you do not like what is being served is incredibly rude. It is the equivalent of bringing a sandwhich because you don't like what they are serving for dinner. If you are bringing something (and you should), it is a gift for the host. So your consideration should be for what the host should enjoy and not your own personal taste. Additionally, the host is under no obligation to serve what you brought. So the answer to your question is bring something for the host and not the DIPA you have been waiting to try.
You're in MA - a bottle of Mystic Saison looks sharp & you can tell folks it's locally made. If you're actually looking for a beer that tastes good & is approachable bring Ipswich Ale.
To show respect for the host, bring something as a gift - meaning something the host or some guests might actually drink. As was pointed out up thread, bringing something just for you to drink says, "Im coming to your party but I dont like what you are serving". I have found that casual beer drinkers will get behind something that is light in color, body and sweetness, even if it has relatively aggressive flavors. If you want to bring something that might just hook someone and reel them into our fold, think witbier, German or Czech pilsner, Anchor Steam, any pale ale, or a Belgian blond like Leffe or Affligem. An American Wheat like Oberon would work too if you can get it. I will say that I like the idea of a 750 of something. It would attract attention. Let us know how it goes...
I think Anderson Valley Summer Solstice goes over very well for those that don't care for the hop bitterness of Celebration. oops, meant Winter Solstice. Duh...
