In 2015 while attending a wedding in western Maine I had the privilege of sampling Maine Beer Company's (MBC) "Dinner", an oft sought after, limited release IPA. Fast forward one year later to my first stop on my "farewell pour", MBC. Truth be told I made several stops prior to this but my doctor says this is a normal part of the aging process, but I digress. MBC opens at 1100 am, I arrive at 1120 to find the parking lot filled with cars adorned with license plates from across the country, excluding Maine. I entered the smallish taproom expecting the worst and quickly ordered a flight of all eight of their beers, receiving them in short order. Obviously they recognized me from my blog, a problem I encounter frequently.
As I sipped my beer I watched in amazement as tourists ravaged the cooler, carrying case after case to their cars. I spoke with the taproom manager, who shall remain nameless primarily because I have forgotten his name. Not unusual when I'm drinking. The manager explained that MBC's crush of visitors is the norm during the summer as tourists flock to the state. Of the eight beers I sampled a couple stand out. "Zoe" is an Irish Red Ale with a very distinctive "Bock-like" taste. Its probably my favorite beer, second only to their "Dinner" IPA. Coming in a close third is "Lunch", an unassuming IPA, not overly hopped and very easy drinking. The remaining six beers in no particular order included "A Tiny Beautiful Something", "Mo", "Beer II", "Mean Old Tom" "Peeper", and "Another One". All equally good, averaging three out of five stars on my personal scale.
The sign at the Maine state line reads "Maine, The Way Life Should Be". MBC's motto should read "The Way Beer Should Be". For anyone planning a beercation to Maine, Maine Beer Company is a must visit.
Until next time, stay crafty.
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