California’s Craft Beer Craze Heads South

California has been a pioneer state for Craft Breweries for some time. It’s no surprise that Sonoma, the county that has supplied us with some of the country’s best wines, is now supplying us with some of the country’s tastiest craft beers. Its home to Russian River Brewery who’s double IPA, Pliny the Elder, has put them on the map winning countless awards all over the country. With so many great Breweries in the northern part of California it was just a matter of time for the craft beer craze to trickle down south. 

Our brewery hop begins in Newport Beach at the Newport Beach Brewing Company. The first brewery to open its doors in Newport Beach, Newport Beach Brewing Company has won competitions against 2,500 other Brewery’s and over 10,000 beers in a blind taste test of judges throughout the world. On tap you’ll find everything from IPA’s, Stouts, Blondes, Pale Ales and Barrel Aged Sours. A full menu featuring appetizers, sandwiches, salads, chicken wings, burgers, pizza and the list goes on to pair with your beer. 

Next we come to BJ’s Restaurant and Brew house. Located at the pier in Balboa, BJ’s offers 11 award-winning signature beers and ciders on tap. 10 rotating seasonal beers are released throughout the year. A full menu with soups, salads, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, seafood and dessert are available for lunch as well as dinner.  

It’s only fitting that we make our last stop memorable. The Balboa Beer Fest offers different beers from 13 different breweries. You’ll enjoy unlimited tastings from over 30 beers on tap as well as food from favorite area vendors. Live music, Giant Jenga and Corn Hole will make the afternoon complete. This event is held on Saturday, November 5th. Tickets can be purchased on line. 

Taste what’s going on at Breweries South of Sonoma. Visit Newport Beach for a tasty brew. Cheers! 

Published on Wednesday, October 19, 2016