Corks, Kegs and Commentary

As my family went around the Thanksgiving table naming things for which we were thankful, my mind was occupied by the place we live.  ..

Wine dinners are always fun, and beer dinners are all the rage.  But a five course beer vs. wine dinner?  Now that is just downright awesome.  And that is exactly what we are serving up for you next Thursday, November 1st at Bella Aquila in Eagle.  It is gonna be grapes against grog in a knock-down, drag out battle to win your palate. ..

Blue Ribbons turned to gold medals over the weekend, as Pabst Brewing Company not only walked away with the gold medal for "American Style Lager," but was also awarded the coveted "Large Brewing Company of the Year" award.  As a proud distributor of their products in several markets, we would like to congratulate all the people associated with bringing home such success! ..

You likely didn't see the highlights on ESPN, no matter how late you stayed up, but a fine performance was turned in Tuesday night by Hayden's softball team.  There were the usual flashes of brilliance combined with the unavoidable streaks of foolishness, but when the stakes were highest, everyone found a way to come through. ..

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is taking over the taps of Bown Crossing tomorrow. ..

As our customers continue to seek and demand quality local products, we continue to strive to house the best of Idaho wines in our portfolio.  Well chalk up another victory, as we are proud to announce the addition of Wood River Cellars to the Hayden family! ..

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Most people, at the mere sight of words like Pediococcus and Lactobacillus, go running for the Clorox bleach and rubber gloves.  That is especially true of most commercial brewers, who associate these terms with infection and poor sanitation. But not Eric Salazar, who heads up the wood beer program for Colorado's New Belgium Brewing Company.  He depends on these invasive bacteria strains to develop sour beers crafted in the style of Belgium's famous Roddenbach Brewery, the undisputed heavyweight champ of wood aged sour beer.  Having met Eric and learned his love for the sour, I am even inclined to believe he hosts bbq's and ice cream socials for these little critters... ..

One of autumn's finest rituals got under way last week, as college football teams across the country embarked on a new season, with the hopes and emotions of their fans riding on every snap.  Many of these fans got their early season wish, but if you wear the familiar black and gold or blue and orange that marks Idaho's in-state rivalry, you are not a happy camper.  Bronco Nation is not used to such tragedies, and is struggling to cope this week.  But if you are a Vandal fan, do not despair.  The folks at Camas Prarie Winery have found a way for you to drown your sorrows while still showing your school spirit!! ..