Cheers to a World of Flavors
When I’m far from home, I become a cultural chameleon, eagerly indulging in regional specialties with gusto. So, when I visit places known for their incredible beer, I morph into the most enthusiastic aficionado I can be. And that’s exactly how I felt when I stepped into the cozy confines of The Up and Under Pub, eager to embark on a beer tasting adventure that would transport me across the globe.
A Pint-Sized Journey Through Europe
As I settled into a plush leather armchair, the bartender approached with a gleam in her eye. “Ready to take a tour of Europe’s finest brews?” she asked, her smile radiating the same infectious excitement that had drawn me to this place.
I nodded enthusiastically, ready to let my taste buds be the guide on this journey. First, she poured me a crisp, golden helles lager, explaining that it was a true testament to the German Reinheitsgebot, or Purity Law, which has regulated the brewing process since 1516. “This beer is all about simplicity,” she remarked, “just four ingredients: malt, hops, yeast, and water.”
As Rick Steves notes, German beer gardens have their roots in the days when monks brewed their own beer and sold it directly to the public. I could almost imagine the stately church and Baroque interiors of the Andechs Monastery, where the hearty meals come in “medieval proportions.”
Eager to explore further, I moved on to a Belgian dubbel, its rich, malty flavor and higher alcohol content a stark contrast to the delicate helles. “Belgians take their beers as seriously as the French do their wines,” the bartender explained, “and these special local brews are often served in unique glassware to bring out their full character.”
Hopping Across the Channel
With my palate primed, I ventured across the Channel to try a traditional English “real ale,” pulled with a long-handled tap from the cellar below. As the bartender poured, she shared Steves’ insight that Brits believe drinking beer cold and carbonated, as Americans do, ruins the taste. This ale was anything but fizzy, with a complex, nutty flavor that had me nodding in appreciation.
Just as Bozeman, Montana, has emerged as a craft beer mecca, the British pub scene is a cornerstone of the social fabric, with many establishments dating back to the late 1800s. I could imagine myself settling in for a cozy evening, swapping tales with the locals over a few rounds of these rich, flavorful ales.
Exploring the Czech Connection
With my taste buds thoroughly tantalized, I couldn’t wait to see what the bartender had in store next. She presented me with a golden Pilsner-style lager, explaining that the Czechs not only invented this style, but also take their beer drinking so seriously that they’re loyal to a single brew all night long.
“In one night, you must stay loyal to one woman and to one beer,” she quoted, her eyes twinkling with amusement. I could almost picture the locals in Prague, unwavering in their devotion to their beloved Pilsner Urquell, Krušovice, or Gambrinus.
As I savored the crisp, hoppy notes of this Czech classic, I couldn’t help but wonder how the people of this beer-loving nation managed to resist the siren call of the many other excellent brews on offer. Perhaps they’ve simply mastered the art of savoring each sip, fully immersed in the moment – a skill I was eager to emulate.
A Bountiful Brew Buffet
With my international beer journey now complete, I leaned back in my chair, feeling a sense of wonder and gratitude. The Up and Under Pub had not only exposed me to a world of flavors, but had done so with a level of passion and expertise that was truly impressive.
“So, what did you think?” the bartender inquired, her eyes alight with anticipation.
I smiled, “Well, I can certainly see why this place is called a pub and not just a brewery. You’ve managed to curate a beer selection that’s as diverse and captivating as the people and cultures that created them.”
She beamed, “That’s exactly what we aim for. Here at The Up and Under, we’re not just about serving up pints – we’re about taking our guests on a journey of discovery, one sip at a time.”
I nodded, already mentally planning my return visit to this veritable brew buffet. “Well, consider me a lifelong member of your tasting club. I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems you have in store.”
As I stepped out into the night, the familiar aroma of hops and barley lingered in the air, a tantalizing invitation to return and continue my exploration of the world’s finest brews. The Up and Under Pub had certainly succeeded in helping me discover my new favorite – and I couldn’t wait to see what other delightful surprises awaited.
