I’ve been a big fan of Goose Island Brewing for a while now, and am excited to report that they’re starting to widely distribute in the SF Bay area.   To celebrate an influx of Chicago brewed Belgian ales, Goose Island and Monk’s Kettle teamed up for launch party, with a selection of treats from [...]

While in Chicago, it seemed worthwhile to find out how they make beer in the Windy City.  Fortuitously,  when I happened to meet Goose Island brewer Tom Korder at GABF, I mentioned I was coming to town and would love to see the facilities.  He happily agreed, and met us with us on a chilly [...]

Gastropub is the new catchphrase of the moment. It implies a lot – the congenial atmosphere of your neighborhood watering hole, combined with upscale (but not too upscale!) food, and an above average beer collection. Ideally, a place like this has a beer manager, or cicarone, who will guide you through the many, many options [...]