Crafting a Movement

Something exciting is happening in Southern California!

It began with an interview on Epicurious about the Craft Brewery Pilgrimage.  That interview describes the tour, and includes suggestions of meals to pair with excellent craft brews.

Then, the Los Angeles Times ran a story on June 2 about the growing number of local craft breweries, and home brewers who are putting their craft to work. The article recognizes Eagle Rock Brewery as the first brewery to open within the City of Los Angeles in more than 60 years, and also specifically mentions Ladyface Alehouse.

Barely a week later, on June 10, the Pasadena Star-News ran a story about a new micro-brewery being established in Azusa, California.  The story highlights other micro-breweries in the area, and emphasizes the contributions of Belgian monasteries in brewing beer.

It does not take much insightful analysis to appreciate what has begun happening here during the last couple of months.  While there was no direct attribution by the newspapers, it is obvious that the print media are following the lead of an apparently very influential blog that is bringing attention to these very significant stories.  These papers may not be ready to credit the source of their ideas: craft breweries in Southern California; Belgian monastic contributions to brewing beer; specific stops on the Brewery Pilgrimage, even recognizing Eagle Rock Brewery as the first!  The facts speak for themselves.

The implications are clear: my Brewery Pilgrimage is changing the way the mainstream media understand our community.  We are not merely visiting craft breweries to drink great beer.  We are building a movement!

There is still time for you to become part of the movement.  If you are in Southern California, you can:

Join us at our next stop at Noble Ale Works in Anaheim on Saturday, July 9.  Yes, the Brewery Pilgrimage is transcending Los Angeles County!

There are three more stops planned over the rest of the summer.  Become my friend on facebook, follow me on twitter, or sign up to receive information via email.

Even if you cannot join the pilgrimage this year, you can visit the fine establishments near you that are mentioned in the linked articles, and let me know which places I should be sure to visit next year.

There are excellent craft brewers following the tradition of Benedictine brewing around the world.  Sample your local brews, and let me know which one I might need to come sample myself.

[Image by cheongwah2002 ]