Ontario Get's Stone(d): Worthy?

So the story goes: a bunch of arrogant bastards walk into a particular Bar Volo on a sunny Superbowl Sunday afternoon and they get Stoned.

The regulars, total strangers, passers by, and most being beer geeks from far and wide stopped by to pay respect to a brewery that deserves it. This brewery is Stone Brewing Co. If you have followed any brewing news you can see that they are making waves, or flying straight over them. A craft brewery doing everything in its power to be seen, heard, and tasted.

Is Ontario worthy of such products? From the turn out of happy drinkers sharing bottles, thoughts, and company, it's obvious that we are truly worthy. Simply by the empties left on the table at the end of the night should give an example of how far beer fans will go for a good bottle of beer. This isn't to say that Canada doesn't have good breweries, in fact we have many that are top notch and can compete with the best of the best. Though, when you taste any of the Stone brews you know the quality that goes into it. It isn't a gamble to try the beer and wonder if you'll like it. It simply demands your respect.

On top of that I've never noticed any other bottle with so much text resembling short essays. Maybe it was just the sun shining through the window, the many people admiring one brewery, and one brewery only, the cases of stone, the dead solider (empty bottles) making their way to a table, but something felt right. Even as the sun began to set it was still a great atmosphere.

I could go on and describe every beer, but I'd love to just note the Vertical Epic 060606. For a four year old bottle, this was lively, aggressive, contemplative, complex, bold, brash, and of all things, Epic. Epic, indeed.

Once again, a huge thanks to Volo for putting this off. If we are not worthy, who really is?

Needless to say none of the Stone appreciators are worried about our bone density or mineral content today. As all the news today has been over the silicon content beer provides for strong and healthy bones.

I say more barley and hops please! Who would have thought a nice barley wine or doubleIPA could keep the doctor away.

On topic, I see these beer events and the supporters giving hope for the growing market for a much wider palate. It's not just marketing anymore, but individuals hunting down quality and specific tastes. 2010 is looking good. Well, it may be an epic year for beer in Canada.

I do indeed feel worthy.

Cheers.