Beer Madness

It happened back in March, along with that other madness which is basketball, but for the beer aficionado, can there be anything more satisfying than Beer Madness?

This is one of those things that I read about last year and forgot about this year until just now while I was enjoying a Magic Hat #9 (with a hint of apricot don't-you-know). I don't think I've agreed with the judges on the "winner", but it is fun to follow along.

It's also a way to get introduced to a number of really good micro-brews that you may not have had the opportunity to try. This year's winner was Hook & Ladder Backdraft Brown, from Silver Spring, MD.

A smooth and refreshing beer loaded with flavor. Specialty malts balanced with just the right amount of cascade hops give it a roasted taste and beautiful brown color. This drinkable brown ale easily rivals an expensive import.