If I’m lucky enough some kind hearted soul sends me a couple of bottles or cans of beer and lager to test. On other occasions I’m able to visit the breweries first hand and see for myself. In Great Britain it’s not too difficult but visiting the USA means I have to chose carefully when I have the chance. So it is with the Oregon breweries which are of considerable interest to me because my sister lives there in Portland, Oregon.
As part of this trail, we tried beers purchased from Whole Foods, from Market of Choice and other well-known grocers including a few that were from online sources. I have all these sent over to the UK so the postage is high but it offers so much in tasting when you can compare the beers.
We might as well dive straight in because there is so much to talk about when it comes to the brewing scene in that state. Oregon is renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, boasting a plethora of breweries that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The state’s beer culture is deeply rooted in its history, and it has become a major hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This comes from the many European traders that settled in the area and brought their brewing craft with them.
Buoy Brewing Company
If you visit Astoria, there are a number of microbreweries and brewpubs which uphold the tradition of high-class brewing as well as sitting in prime positions on the waterfront of the Columbia river. One of the standout features of Buoy Beer Company is its location. Situated on the historic waterfront of this historic town, the brewery offers picturesque views of the Columbia River and the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge. This setting provides a unique and enjoyable ambiance for visitors looking to relax and enjoy their beer.
The brewery is housed in a historic former fish cannery building, adding to the overall charm and character of the establishment. This historical aspect, combined with its waterfront location, contributes to a unique and inviting atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists. If you like wildlife then here’s the place to visit. Not only great views of sea-birds but there is a little portal in the floor to see those seals as they rest under the decking.
The Buoy Beer Company has always been known for producing a range of high-quality craft beers which they started in 2013. Their online story is worth checking out anyway. They offer a diverse selection of styles, including traditional ales, lagers, and seasonal releases. Their commitment to using quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques contributes to their positive reputation among beer enthusiasts. They regularly win awards around the USA.
The brewery also promotes sustainability initiatives. They reportedly use energy-efficient brewing practices and environmentally friendly technologies. This commitment to sustainability resonates with patrons who appreciate businesses with a strong environmental consciousness.
The brewery is known for producing a range of high-quality craft beers. They offer a diverse selection of styles, including traditional ales, lagers, and a number of seasonal releases. They probably belong in that division of breweries that are constantly updating their selections but it indicates a sense of adventure. Their commitment to using quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques really contributes to their positive reputation among beer enthusiasts.
I really like IPA because of its distinctive hoppy character and I’ve discussed the nature of IPA in past articles. When it comes to American style IPAs I’m ambivalent. I do find that Buoy though have a classic in their IPA which comes in 12 fl. oz. cans. The alcohol content is high at 7.5% by vol. alcohol with 70 IBUs so it has a significant bitterness. The dry-hopping means that it has a more flinty, fuller and richer taste than the other IPAs I will cover. The hops are Meridian and Crystal but what balance, we cannot speculate on. The citrus notes which are claimed are there but not as striking as expected. [Purchase Buoy IPA 6pk, 2 fl. Oz. online).
If your tastebuds are for a Czech-style pilsner then they also do a highly palatable version of just 35 IBUs and 6.2 & by volume ethanol. It has a distinctive bright style more suited to the American sense of what Pilzen would offer us. The beer is more malty which clearly is a feature of the brew mix and uses Saaz hops. [Purchase Buoy Pilsner , 6pk, 12 Fl. Oz online].
By the way, the pub in Astoria does excellent food too! The brewery offers tours with a tasting room, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of their beers. This educational aspect adds significant depth to the overall experience and should be appreciated by those interested in the craft beer-making process.
The Deschutes Brewery
Here’s a clever thing! One of the last place you visit when you leave Portland Airport is a pub run by the Deschutes Brewery. This is a classic brewpub with pan state appeal. I think anyone who has visited Bend would agree it has plenty to offer the weary traveller as they come east of the Cascades.
Deschutes Brewery has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality craft beers with a diverse range of styles. Their flagship beer, “Black Butte Porter,” is often considered a fine classic example of the American porter. They have both traditional styles and innovative, experimental brews, appealing to a wide range of beer lovers.
What has helped this brewery is to set deep roots in the Bend community and it is actively involved in local events, charitable initiatives, and community partnerships. This engagement has helped them develop a strong and loyal customer base that appreciates their commitment to the local area. Over the years, Deschutes Brewery has received numerous awards and accolades at prestigious beer competitions. These honors further validate their commitment to producing high-quality brews.
Back to their beer! The ‘Black Butte Porter’ has to be sampled whether you like porters or not simply to claim that you understand this style of beer. The beer is described as having coffee and chocolate notes and that is reminiscent of another famous brew from Ireland. Clear roasted notes underpinning what seemed a slightly rougher finish than I expected but this might be because tasting other beers previously. [Purchase Deschutes Brewery Black Butte Porter 6pk. 12 Fl. Oz online].
The IPA, known as Fresh Haze IPA (6.5% alcohol by volume) is one that I feel would be ideal drunk during the hot months of Oregon. It has a light citrus finish but without the bitterness that you find with the Buoy version. Clever brewing here because it actually goes well with burgers and salad. Too hoppy and certain food pairings are out. I think Buoy’s IPA would do a curry whereas this one is better for a Chicken Tikka Marsala. [Purchase Deschutes Brewery Fresh Haze IPA 6 pk. 12 Fl. Oz. online].
By the way, you might have thought the title has a spelling mistake. It is meant to be trailing not trialling.
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