That's right, I took part in a internet meet up of beer geeks, I mean enthusiasts. I must admit you have to love how the internet can bring like minded people together. For those beer novices out there Beer Advocate and Rate Beer are two well known beer websites for the geeks amongst us. I am not a big Rate Beer user, for no particular reason other than I have always used Beer Advocate. Anywho...users post discussions on forums, rate beer, bars, etc. Rate Beer has an amazing list of reviews for pretty much everything under the sun. Overtime, I'd say you can tell whether a beer is something you want to try based on its users reviews. I link to Beer Advocate's beer reviews in my What I am Drinking section, so you can get the idea if you ever clicked through.
The meet-up or Throwdown basically is a bunch of like minded beer lovers who bring rare beer together to share. No expectations, just friendly conversation, beer geekdom conversation and well - lots of note taking if you're a rater. I had to laugh at some of the conversation, not being a rater. It was nothing personal (if any of you happen to read this.) I really was just thinking how even as a non-rater I knew what they were saying, but if someone walked off the street and heard you say, "I have had that, I will pass...I rated it a 3.75." They'd be like, huh?! The arguments would confuse a Trekie.
There was a few familiar faces there, and we were welcome to share our beers at the Oldsmar Tap House. The owner Tony, again showcases his support for the beer community in Tampa Bay. I met some new friends, and throughly enjoyed a few very selective beers. I brought a few myself, one being a 2.5 year old Russian Imperial Stout from Iron Hill Brewery that I had been saving for a special occasion. The group loved it, and I felt welcome into the fold. It was as if I had paid my tribute to the elders and gained their respect. Now I just need to get my hands on more rare beers for future meetings. Hearing them discuss beer was like listening to the analysts on CNN talk about the race for president. It was a great afternoon. I wonder why it has taken me so long to get involved in groups like this.
Best tastes of the afternoon for me:
Russian River Beautification
Blushing Monk
Iron Hill Russian Imperial Stout
Used Rate Beer links for solidarity, and maybe you'll read a review from one of the attendees.
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