My dad is currently in Maine for a vacation. I'm wanting to send him some suggestions on beers he can bring back in his suitcase for me. I've perused various Maine threads and breweries/beers. Thought I would ask if anyone else has suggestions. I'm into IPAs, APAs, DIPAs, etc. I already told him a few from Maine Brewing Company. Just wondered if there were any others that may not have many reviews (which means I may not have seen them). Would really prefer they be sold in bottles or cans, and not make him go through the process of buying a growler. I think they're traveling all over the state, so location isn't that big of a deal, assuming it's in Maine. Thanks in advance!
I agree with Allagash and Shipyard. If it's possible, I would see how hard it is to get Heady Topper in Maine. I know it's from Vermont.
If you want to try some decent farmhouse ales have him stop off at Oxbow (growlers though.) Rising Tide in Damariscotta had some Marshall Wharf, Prairie as well as the whole Maine Beer catalog.
Oxbow and if he is in Portland Allagash just release Bourbon Black and Merveilleux just released in the brewery today.... https://www.facebook.com/AllagashBrewingCompany
Impossible commercially. They only sell at the cannery (which is a half-day's drive away) and some very local distribution.
The one not mentioned so far: Marshall Wharf Ace Hole in cans. Really, really good APA/IPA distributed on a limited basis to better stores. Also, Rising Tide is from Portland and distributes around the state. Oxbow is sold out of bottled stuff at the moment, but excellent saison-ish offerings in growlers. Make no special effort for Shipyard or Gearys or Grittys, they're average beers but not worth hauling a distance.
I'd say you should request: Allagash bottles, Maine Beer Co bottles, and Marshall Wharf "AceHole" OR "Cant Dog" cans. And depending on WHERE your Dad is spending his time up there, Oxbow or Marshall Wharf growlers from the two breweries in Newcastle and Belfast. Also, Maine now gets Pretty Things (MA) distribution and those bottles are solid too. Agree with above that you can probably skip Shipyard, Grittys, & Gearys - Some decent beers if you're in Portland for a night out, but not worth bringing back probably.
Pops was able to pick up a few bottles of Lunch, MO, and Another One. Doesn't sound like he's too keen on bringing back any more than that, ha
