To some, this is the week to explore Mexican craft beer. For me, I avoid the high holy drinking days which is why I was glad that I could head out a day early on May the Fourth to sample beers from Baja Brewing at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood.
I have had their Cabotella brand as well as the Baja (Peyote) Pale Ale. Neither lit my fire but I am still interested in the closest foreign brewing scene to us in L.A. and want to support further exports up to us.
Well the Peyote Pale on draft was much better. Brighter citrus notes and more effervescence dialed back the caramel malt notes and created a more balanced beer that showcased those three different notes.
Then I got to try the new Karl Strauss Collaboration “Dos Californios”. Karl Strauss Brewmaster Paul Segura and Baja Brewing Company Owner/Brewmaster Jordan Gardenhire created a perfect Cinco de Mayo beer, a Mexican Lager with a subtle green vegetal kick of habanero mixed with agave nectar, on a base darker amber lager. It really worked and I was glad to get to finish the growler.
But it was just as good to talk to Gardenhire about his beers, the Baja lifestyle, Mexican craft beer and their newly formed Guild as well as the issues with procuring supplies in Mexico.
It certainly made me want to schedule a trip to see what the beer is like, especially fresh.