United Nations of Beer

Russian River Brewing

by Joseph Gelman
(CA, USA)

Russian River Brewing

Sometimes a vacation through Sonoma county can leave tourists with the impression that the whole place is nothing but the pungent smells of fancy Australian goat cheeses and a constant winery vs winery dueling banjos theme. But for one who has time to escape their wine-loving friends to enjoy some of the common and relaxing breweries, Russian River Brewing Company is one that shouldn't be missed.

Though it may be considered to have a smaller square footage than some other breweries in the area, Russian River proves good things come in small packages. (Plus, who doesn't love feeling like they've stumbled upon a secret beer garden of their own?)

The seating area is generally a little on the darker side; some call it mood lighting, others call it buzz lighting. The tables are well-spaced from each other, allowing a beer guzzling pizza-addict sufficient room to push his/her chair back, undo a couple notches on the belt and stretch out a distended stomach.

Every Sunday there's a live local band playing on the stage, which in general is pleasant but can easily overwhelm the conversation at the tables. As hinted at before, Russian River pizza is unrivaled, and their spicy wings are among the top three of "James'n'Joe's Search for the Spiciest Buffalo Wings Ever Created."

Unfortunately, if you're in the mood for a classic beer/burger and fries combo, you'll be disappointed, as there aren't any burgers on the menu (And not much besides pizza as well!). But enough drinking around the bush...

The beer at Russian River Brewing has something for everyone. Personally, as I'm usually nursing some sort of hangover, I enjoy a thinner, less bitter type of beer. Little White Lie is one of my favorites, as it doesn't leave your mouth feeling as dry as some of the really hoppy brews around. Also good for washing down delicious food products.

For my nights where I want the most bang for my buck, I'll choose Pliny the Elder, Russian River's Double IPA, or Damnation, a 7% ABV golden ale (surprisingly smooth for its alcohol percentage).

Another great part of Russian River Brewing is the Sampler, which gives you one ouncers of most of the beers available. It's a fun thing for both first-timers and indecisive regulars.

Russian River Brewing can be a welcomed break from some of the high-class wine circuits of the area. I recommend it to any type as the crowd and staff are all of varying ages and exuding friendly, laid-back temperaments.