We all know ThirstyBear as one of the longest standing brewpubs in the heart of the city known well for its social environment, Spanish flair, and friendly atmosphere. Well, this year is its 20th anniversary! Brenden Dobel, ThirstyBear's brewmaster since 2002, has managed to create a well-rounded selection of German-influenced West Coast style of brewing in each of his 7 flagship beers, leading to a beer with a full flavor and clean finish. And he continues to delight with a recent change up to the entire collection!
We happily present a new lineup of palette quenching, thirsty delivering amalgam of easily drinkable beers. My favorites included the Nitro Porter, Bourbon Barrel Dark Ale (The Dark Age), Black Ale IPA, and the new Azacca SMASH IPA (Single Malt, Single Hop). This hop varietal was recently released by the American Dwarf Hop Association (hilarious name) and brings a fragrant note of citrus and tropical fruit. With all of these options in the mix, you've got something for everyone!
(*Dwarf Hop - Traditionally, hops grow on trellis systems that can reach more than 20 feet, making harvesting quite challenging. The new "dwarf hop" method cuts the height in half for better ergonomics and reduces water usage).
“Brewing and artisanal food worlds are really experiencing an incredible renaissance. Never before has there been such support for true experimentation with handcrafted menus.”
Beer might be the highlight for me whenever I visit but many find their modern take on traditional Spanish tapas as front-and-center. The food is always paired alongside suggested beers, it's a transformative concept that's not new here. Chef Rob McCarthy changes the menu monthly and uses 'beer' as influential ingredients to his dishes. This helps create a natural setting for food and beer pairings.
Any long-lasting establishment like this has thought about details even beyond the organics. Putting careful thought design into the venue space, group atmosphere, service expertise, etc can truly maximize the customer experience. In San Francisco, it's the only brewery to brew certified organic beer and become a certified Green Business. So their hops and grains are sourced from some of the finest ingredients.
I'm exhilarated to continue seeing what innovative beers and change ups Brenden and Rob come up with. Cough cough, they might be creating a strawberry milk stout on nitro, which sounds superb. Regardless of whatever happens, I know we'll always be in good hands when drinking and dining at ThirstyBear.
Go check out ThirstyBear's organic small batch beers, available only on draught, on-site!
Brenden pouring a good one.
