By T.C. WORLEY
As an editor, I could investigate the scientific recovery benefits of a post-workout beer, but I’d be veiling the real reason I sometimes love to tip one back after a run or a ride — I just like it, simple and plain. It’s an added bonus when a beer brand gets behind races and events in the outdoors space, including surf, bike and “urban adventure” competitions. Here are three brews that hit that sweet spot — satisfying to the pallet plus active in our outdoor world.
Direct from its namesake Kona District on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kona Brewing Co. bottles beers that pack plenty of flavor, though without batting you over the head with it. I sampled several of the company’s beers and found them all to be well above average, including the fruitier, citrus breed of the company’s Fire Rock Pale Ale. In short, it’s one of the easiest-drinking, most balanced pales I’ve ever had — crisp, light and smooth. Look elsewhere if you like your PA’s to have a bite.
Kona’s new medium-bodied beer, the Koko Brown, is brewed with toasted coconut. The result is creamy and smooth, a moderately sweet flavor where the coconut hints are nutty and deep, not too sweet. It’s a fitting recipe from an island brewer and something special among brown ales.
Kona is the 13th largest craft brewer in the U.S., with brewing facilities in Oregon, Washington, New Hampshire and Hawaii. Its distribution currently spans 28 states, most of which hug one of the two coastlines, and the company is a big supporter of stand-up paddle boarding, including the sponsorship of events and an industry award.
It’s no secret that Colorado-based New Belgium Brewing is a prominent supporter of outdoor events and causes, including its Urban Assault races and Tour De Fat festivals. (An aside: Last weekend, racing as Team Rainbow Unicorn, two members of Team GearJunkie/WEDALI took first place overall in the Minneapolis Urban Assault Ride!)
New Belgium’s long-lived Fat Tire Ale is a solid, if not standout medium-bodied ale. It’s a great choice for those unfamiliar with craft brews. Most will find it easy to drink and perennially flavored for year-round enjoyment. It’s a cult classic kind of beer that everyone ought to at least try. Comes in a can or bottle.