Pacific Coast Brewing Co.

Checked out Pacific Coast Brewing Co. in Oakland today. Had a Northwest feel to it with brick walls and big windows, complete with nautical artwork throughout. Loren thought it was more Boston, although he's never been to Portland or Seattle, and I've never been to Boston, so that basically makes him wrong and me right.

Newton kicked it off with a Racer X--claimed it was two times as good as Racer V, and promptly called Joe L to taunt him. About the beer: "mmmmmm... very herbal, slightly citrusy; tastes like happiness." It had an exquisite color- the late-afternoon sun beamed through the half-oblong copa, radiating a deep brownish red glow. The beauty of a good amber.

Loren stepped up with the sampler--a brilliant move. I don't even know where to begin describing his selection. Colorful would be one way. One of the beers, the Emerald, was crystal clear and a deep bronze. The clarity and hue bore resemblance of a precious gem. It was pleasant to the taste. Loren's reaction: "Wow. Slightly medicinal and alcoholic, but in a good way." Newton detected a spiciness, while Loren's second go round detected a similarity to apple.

I went with the cask brew of the day... the Millenium IPA. Definitely fruity, warmer than almost any beer I've ever had fresh from the tap (too warm, in fact). Had the essence of butter toffee, or perhaps honeysuckle. I enjoyed it, but I don't think I'd have another on the same day.

Random thought: we're thinking we need to go around and smell some hops and barley to re-orient our beer senses.

Also tried the Blue Whale Ale... overall a great beer. Hoppier than the millennium, a real beer taste.

Brendan's selection was a strong, dark pour. "Perfect size, perfect beer, perfect everything"--the Leviathan Russian Stout.

My final beer was the Gray Whale. The color was slightly lighter than the blue whale, but not quite as clear. Similar to the Millennium in flavor, but not as fruity. Well balanced and worthy of another round, but not today.

Cheers!