Weed Beer

So, as you may have guessed by the title of the blog (but not the postings thus far), I do enjoy to throw back a cold one every now and then. I've always enjoyed beer. Light ales, lagers, stouts...doesn't really matter, I always enjoyed trying new beers. Although I do have my preferences (usually heavier lagers or stouts -- beers that actually have flavor), I'm always up for trying something new.

A couple of years ago when I was travelling through Europe, one of my most enjoyable experiences was trying the local brews at each stop. I loved comparing how each country and culture interprets this popular drink. I also loved experiencing the social aspect of it. It's actually pretty shocking how many cultures base their free-time around this bubbly-barely based concoction.

Now, having moved to the UK, a sort-of mecca for beer drinking enthusiasts, I'm making it a point to try as many different types of beers (and ciders) as possible. It seems that at the center of any social, business, or sporting event, you can find beer. It's funny to see how serious it is taken here (funny in a good way). This can be directly reflected in the quality of the beer drank here.

Case in point, every beer or cider I've tried thus far has been good...in it's own way. I even encountered an organic liquor store, filled from top to bottom with organic beers! Yea, I know, pretty odd...but good to see in a way. Although I think it is largely a marketing ploy, I bought several different kinds to try.

One, specifically caught my eye (pictured), for obvious reasons ;) Anyway, after trying the beer, my suspicions were re-affirmed. Although the beer tasted great, very flavorful, crisp, and bold, I can't say I wasn't slightly disappointed. It was clearly marketed in this manner for a reason...drawing consumers into the mystic, forbidden allure of marijuana. Was the "drug" used during the brewing process? Maybe, maybe not...I honestly couldn't tell (could not taste it, no side-effects). All I know is the over-the-top bottle (Jamaican color-scheme and large green leaf) and beer were made to intrigue people, and that's exactly how I got roped in.

Was I disappointed I dropped $4 for a single bottle in a grocery store...not at all. That's part of the excitement of trying new things, never know what to expect. Will I try it again? Unlikely. Next time I'm aiming for a weed-beer combo, they'll be taken in separate doses... ;)