Another Reason to Drink

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"Pure Water Beer is actually a pure beer," we marvel, sipping the crystal-clear American lager from Common Roots Brewing Company. Located in an old brick factory building in South Glen Falls, NY, this brewery has created something special – a beer that rivals your favorite mass-produced lager but elevates the experience through quality ingredients and sustainable water management. We're immediately struck by its clean, crisp profile that lacks the cloying sweetness of many commercial options.

Between beers, our conversation takes a deeply personal turn. "It was rough, dude," Rick shares about saying goodbye to his beloved dog Bruno earlier that week. There's raw emotion as he describes their final camping trip together, the last golf cart ride around the neighborhood, and the heartbreak of coming home afterward. The podcast becomes a space for processing grief alongside life's lighter moments – from CPAP machine mishaps that trigger 2AM marital standoffs to attempts at solving muddy paw problems with artificial grass installations.

Our second tasting features Hot Blonde from Catawba Island Brewing Company – a mango habanero blonde ale that brings just enough heat to complement its tropical sweetness. "You can taste the mango, but you can taste that slight habanero," we note, appreciating how the warmth builds gradually without overwhelming the palate. At 4.7% ABV, it's another approachable option that demonstrates the creativity possible within craft brewing.

Through our signature "Ricky's Bad Choices" segment and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, we navigate the full spectrum of human experience – from profound loss to absurd hypotheticals about robot relationships. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simple act of sharing stories over good beer creates the connection we need most during life's challenging moments.

Have you tried either of these brews? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Subscribe to Another Reason to Drink wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of craft beer enthusiasts who appreciate both thoughtful tasting notes and authentic conversation.

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The perfect pairing isn't always planned - and that's exactly what happened when Rick and Mal cracked open Shiner's Strawberry Blonde alongside Windridge Cider Company's Blackberry Mojito. With natural strawberry essence that doesn't overwhelm and a mint-forward cider that surprised even the non-mint enthusiast, this episode delivers two thoughtful reviews that go beyond simple thumbs up or down.

Between sips, the conversation wanders to luxury overlanding vehicles (specifically a $300,000 Ram Storyteller that has the guys dreaming of road trips), the excitement of golf season's return, and a heartfelt discussion about saying goodbye to a beloved pet. It's this seamless blend of beverage appreciation and authentic life moments that defines the show's intimate, conversational style.

The Shiner earns respectable 8/10 ratings for its balanced approach to fruit beer - subtly sweet without artificial flavors - while the Blackberry Mojito cider steals the show with 9/10 scores, praised for tasting nothing like typical ciders and delivering a refreshing mint experience that "soothes the belly." What becomes clear is how differently the hosts might rank their preferences, with one preferring the strawberry beer due to personal taste, despite rating the cider higher on its technical merits.

True to form, the guys share stories from their first golf outing of the season, debate the proper etiquette at BYOB parties, and dive into Ricky's Bad Choices - their segment of hypothetical questions that always leads to revealing answers and hearty laughs. Yet beneath the banter lies a touching moment as one host prepares to say goodbye to his aging dog, reminding us that sometimes our reasons to drink are bittersweet.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, cider curious, or just enjoy authentic conversation among friends, pour yourself something special and join the guys for another honest, unfiltered episode. Subscribe and share your own beverage discoveries - the guys would love to hear what you're drinking!

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Prepare your taste buds for a wild ride as we dive into one of the most accurate flavor recreations in beer history—Best Maid Sour Pickle Beer from Martin House Brewing in Fort Worth, Texas. This 4.7% ABV creation isn't just pickle-inspired; it tastes EXACTLY like drinking straight pickle juice from the jar, complete with all the dill, salt, and spice notes you'd expect, minus any alcohol flavor. Perfect for pickle lovers and adventurous drinkers, we explore how this unique brew might be the ultimate Bloody Mary mixer or pickleback companion.

Between sips of brine, we journey through Billy's recent food adventures, including a pilgrimage to the legendary Anchor Bar in Buffalo—birthplace of the buffalo wing. His first-hand account reveals whether the original lives up to the hype (spoiler: it absolutely does), with descriptions of perfectly crispy drums and wings that'll have you planning your own detour.

The second half brings us to Huntsville, Alabama, as we sample Yellowhammer Brewing's Rebellion Red Lager. At 5.4% ABV, this German-American hybrid delivers clean caramel notes without the bitter finish that sometimes plagues red ales, earning it a solid place in our regular rotation.

From pickle juice with an alcoholic kick to a perfectly balanced red lager, both these "trust me beers" represent opposite ends of the craft spectrum—one boldly experimental, the other refined and subtly innovative. Whether you're seeking shocking new flavors or well-crafted takes on classic styles, we've got you covered with honest ratings and real reactions.

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Take a seat at the bar with Rick and Princess as they embark on a flavor-filled expedition through two distinct craft beers that might change how you think about your own beer journey. This episode captures the essence of how our taste preferences evolve over time—sometimes in surprising directions.

First up is Cold Triple Brewery's Go Devil Red Ale, a hidden gem Rick discovered during a camping trip near Pittsburgh. With its smooth character, rich caramel notes, and subtle complexity, this 5% ABV brew earns an impressive 9.5/10 rating from both hosts. Their detailed analysis reveals why this beer might dethrone their previous favorite reds like Alaskan and Smithwick's.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when the hosts sample St. Arnold's Art Car IPA from Texas—a more robust offering at 7.2% ABV with 55 IBUs. This stronger, hoppier beer sparks a revealing discussion about how beer preferences mature with exposure and experience. Princess confesses he once avoided certain styles entirely but now actively seeks out sours and other previously dismissed varieties.

Between tastings, Rick shares the surprisingly relaxing experience of his first camping trip with his new trailer, a stark contrast to his previous tent-camping adventures. The hosts debate the noticeable differences between canned, bottled, and draft beers, agreeing that context and environment significantly impact enjoyment.

What makes this episode special is how it captures the evolution of taste—not just in beer, but in life. The hosts' willingness to revisit assumptions and expand their palates mirrors the craft beer movement's spirit of exploration. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just beginning to venture beyond your comfort zone, this conversation reminds us that taste is always developing, never static.

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Two beers that completely flip traditional expectations - that's the delightful contradiction we explore in our latest adventure through craft beer's wilder frontiers. The Midnight Butcher Black IPA from Michaux Brewing arrives dark as night yet carries the distinctive bitterness of an IPA, creating what we describe as a "bitter chocolate" experience that improves significantly as it warms. At 6.5% ABV, this collaboration with Rooster Street Brewing challenges what we typically expect from the style.

Following our journey through darkness, we pivot to a golden-hued Albino White Stout from Cleveland's Butcher and Brew that delivers mind-bending coffee and chocolate flavors despite its bright appearance. The surprising sweetness and easy drinkability of this 5.4% creation earned unanimous 9/10 ratings from both hosts – a standout that would appeal even to those who normally shy away from traditional stouts.

Between sips, we venture into Rick's upcoming maiden voyage with his new camper (hopefully more successful than the Titanic's journey that began on this very date in 1912), Princess's adventures with his new Teletubby-like CPAP machine, and a surprisingly detailed conversation about ass cracks, potential tattoos, and the advantages of snorkel-breathing apparatus in intimate situations. These tangents might explain why we keep coming back to these beers to ground ourselves!

Whether you're intrigued by beers that challenge visual expectations or simply enjoy authentic conversations between friends, this episode delivers both in equal measure. Find these unexpected brews if you can – they represent the creative spirit driving today's craft beer industry and provide perfect examples of how innovation continues to thrive among American brewers.

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Prepare for a taste sensation journey unlike anything we've experienced before on the podcast. We're diving into two extraordinary offerings from Four Score Brewing Company in Gettysburg, PA, and they've left us absolutely stunned. For the first time ever, we award back-to-back perfect 10/10 scores to their Jahamba series beers - the Peach Pomegranate White Tea Frost and Strawberry Peanut Brittle.

These aren't your typical beers. With milkshake-like consistency and authentic flavor profiles, they blur the line between beverage and dessert. The peach pomegranate delivers genuine fruit flavors that taste "straight off the tree," while the strawberry peanut brittle amazes with its seamless transition from fresh strawberry to the distinctive caramelized notes of brittle. Though labeled as "heavily fruited sours," neither exhibits traditional sourness - making them surprisingly approachable for all palates.

Between beer tastings, we catch up on Rick's exciting week - from new concrete being poured at his home to the purchase of a camper that promises future adventures. We also venture into a lively discussion of Gettysburg's historical significance, battlefield tours, and local attractions that make it worth visiting beyond just its excellent brewing scene.

What makes these beers truly special is how they showcase brewing innovation at its finest. Four Score has crafted something that defies conventional beer categories while delivering an unforgettable drinking experience. The thick, creamy mouthfeel and perfect flavor execution demonstrate master brewing technique that deserves recognition.

Join us for this celebration of craft beer excellence, hilarious tangents, and the shared joy of discovering something truly extraordinary in your glass. Have you experienced a beer that completely blew your expectations away? We'd love to hear about it!

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Take a globe-trotting journey through exceptional beers and personal adventures as Princess returns from Colombia with colorful stories of a traditional wedding, street rappers calling him "Papa Santa," and the stark contrast between American and Colombian prices. Meanwhile, Rick's lucky streak at the casino transformed a $100 investment into a $1,700 windfall after hitting back-to-back jackpots in the high-limits area.

The beer tasting lineup delivers dramatic contrasts, starting with Burial Beer Company's "Bright" Italian-style Pilsner from Asheville that surprises both hosts with its floral IPA-like qualities, earning solid 8/10 ratings. When their journey takes them to a Corona Sunbrew Citrus Cerveza, things take a disappointing turn with artificial flavors neither can stomach. Salvation arrives with the episode's crown jewel – a Rising River Brewery sour ale collaboration featuring strawberry, blueberry and vanilla notes that earns an enthusiastic 9.5/10.

Between sips, the conversation weaves through Princess's vivid Colombian experiences – from the heat and humidity to affordable luxury dining and persistent cocaine offers that became predictable conversation starters with tourists. The episode wraps with glimpses into Rick's health transformation through intermittent fasting and apple cider vinegar, highlighting the easy camaraderie that makes listeners feel like they're sharing beers with old friends.

Ready for your next vicarious adventure? Subscribe now and join us each week as we find Another Reason to Drink!

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Two seasonal beer releases collide in our latest tasting adventure, resulting in unexpected discoveries and hearty laughs. We kick things off with Victory Brewing Company's Peanut Butter Candy Cake Porter, a smooth 6.0% ABV offering that immediately impresses with its harmonious blend of chocolate, coffee, and peanut butter notes. The lack of bitterness and perfect flavor balance earns it a solid 8.5/10 from both hosts.

As we transition to Southern Tier's Irish Cream Stout (5.8% ABV), something curious happens. While browsing both breweries' websites, we stumble upon identical layouts, special offers, and weekly promotions – revealing an apparent connection between these seemingly separate brewing companies. This craft beer conspiracy becomes an engaging subplot as we savor the slightly sweeter profile of the Irish Cream Stout, which we agree would serve as an excellent alternative to Irish coffee during St. Patrick's season.

Between sips, the conversation wanders into entertaining hypothetical scenarios. Would you amputate a finger for $50,000? (We unanimously agree we would.) Would you accept $500,000 to work as a children's party clown every Saturday for life? (That's a hard pass from both of us.) Our "Bad Choices" segment might raise eyebrows, but it reflects the unfiltered camaraderie that makes sharing great beer with friends so special.

Whether you're preparing for St. Patrick's Day festivities or simply searching for perfect seasonal brews to welcome spring, both of these 8.5-rated offerings deserve a spot in your rotation. Grab a cold one, press play, and join us for this celebration of craft beer, friendship, and unexpected brewing industry revelations.

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When a two-week illness hiatus brings two beer enthusiasts back together, the conversation flows as smoothly as their first pour—Ellicottville's French Connection barrel-aged beer. This cabernet-influenced brew creates the perfect backdrop for Rick's revelation about his fitness journey as he approaches his 50th birthday.

"I'm turning 50-ish and it's been bothering me a little bit," Rick admits, before sharing his impressive 11-pound weight loss through intermittent fasting and daily workouts. It's a refreshingly honest moment that showcases how craft beer lovers can balance their passion with health-conscious choices. The conversation weaves through illness recovery, workout routines, and the realization that feeling young at heart doesn't always match what happens when you bend down to tie your shoes.

The tasting journey continues with Hoof Hearted's Flavor Mania, a complex brunch sour brewed with blueberries, blackberries, cherries, vanilla, almonds, and maple syrup. Both hosts are pleasantly surprised by its drinkability, awarding it a solid 9/10 and recommending it as an excellent introduction for sour beer newcomers. Between sips, they share awkward bar encounters, embarrassing moments, and anticipation for upcoming spring activities—creating that familiar feeling of eavesdropping on two friends catching up over drinks.

Whether you're curious about barrel-aged beers with wine influences, navigating fitness while maintaining your beer hobby, or simply enjoy authentic conversations that don't shy away from life's uncomfortable moments, this episode delivers with the unfiltered honesty that keeps listeners coming back. Pour yourself something interesting and join us for another reason to drink!

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S6-E8, Ever tried a beer so spicy it made you question your taste buds? Join Princess and her sidekick Ricky, affectionately known as Tripod, as they embark on a thrilling flavor adventure, starting with the Hot Blonde Habanero from Biker Brew House. With its intriguing mix of spice and sweetness, this 4.7% ABV brew from Youngstown is just the beginning. As we sip and savor, Ricky treats us to tales of tricky winter drives, weaving humor and warmth into our beer exploration. Our quest for new brews takes a comedic turn as we lament the challenges of finding fresh flavors at local stores while diving into the fun and quirky can designs that catch our eyes.

Switching gears, we turn the spotlight on the thrill of live music and the joy of shared experiences. The excitement is palpable as we chat about upcoming concerts, including a much-anticipated Mother Tongue performance. Our plans for an ideal Saint Patrick's Day celebration come with a side of laughter, as we entertain the whimsical notion of a "volunteer cat" as a designated driver. I also share my unexpected adventure at an RV show in Erie, Pennsylvania, where the small size and packed atmosphere were a delightful surprise. With stories, laughter, and a shared love for live events, this episode promises a delightful mix of camaraderie and excitement, perfect for both beer enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

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