I'm on a two week business trip early next spring that will take me through lower New Hampshire (via Albany, NY) into Nashua. What are the bars/beer stores I should be aware of, including any little known gems you might recommend? Is a separate trip to Smuttynose worth taking. Thanks so much!
I'm on the complete other side of NH, so others may have more specifics, but you will be pretty close to Kelsen and From the Barrel. Both do a pretty good job and make some nice brews.
Kelsen and FTB already being mentioned take a swing by Backyard Brewery as well. A stop and the Cask and Vine is something I'd recommend as well. Flight Center in nashua is pretty good and I also like the bar inside Whole Foods. I like Smuttynose but it's tough for me to call it a must for a separate trip.
Being a NH resident myself, I would recommend you just stick to VT, MA or ME. Unfortunately NH is just not quite as fun. However, there are a few gems around.
Cross the border and go to Craft Beer Cellar in Westford, MA. ~20-30 minutes away depending on where you're staying in Nashua.
Hit the Nashua Garden on Main St for Happy Hour.... small draft selection but can't beat 1/2 price M-F 4-6P. Flight center is ~3 doors down... pricey drafts but good bottle shop. The Beer Store on Amherst St also has a great bottle selection. As stated upthread... FtB, Kelsen, Rockingham and Cask & Vine all about 5 mins apart from each other... Prosit!