Micro's abundant flavors and variety
I like beer because of its single serving size. No worries about finishing the bottle before it degrades the way wine does; they're bottled in six-twelve ounce portions, so you can enjoy a glass at a time.
You can have a variety of drink in your refrigerator while staying within the budget. One week I'll buy a stout, another week an IPA, yet another week a six pack of lager. Having a collection of beer at my finger tips makes me feel like things are thriving in the Francis dominion.
Microbrews and handcrafted beers vary in flavor the same way different styles of cuisine vary. You can be in the mood for Thai food over Italian, just like you can prefer an ESB over a steam lager. Plus, micros and handcrafted brews are densely flavored, offering a taste experience that justifies the effort put forth in the selection process.
I like to pull a bottle out of the fridge and set aside to drink in an hour. Allowing beer to warm up a bit can reveal the complex flavors and depth of the malt and hops. You can compare two styles or two different brands, allowing your intellect, as well as your palate to enjoy the rich flavors.
Some stores offer a 'create your own six pack' option.
This is a special shelf where single bottles are offered;
so shop from this area and resist the urge to pull single beers from the main cooler.
This purchase has very little risk with the possibility of discovering a new favorite brew,
provided that the store maintains the area.
Two retail stores that offer mix and match six packs are County Line Liquors and Argonaut.
Many producers offer a twelve pack sampler, six pairs of six styles. Twelve pack samplers are a big hit at parties. Plus, I like the excitement of knowing there are six different brews waiting for me in the kitchen when I finish my day.
