WHY I DRINK BEER
Why do I drink beer?
I drink beer because it gives me a most pleasant buzz. That is, it is intoxicating. I also find it more refreshing than still water, or wine. Serve well chilled, on a hot day, it has a special way of cleaning the mouth, refreshing the palate and satisfying thirst. The image of a bottle or can of beer dripping with condensation on a hot day is a truly visual treat that can stimulate anticipation and enhance appreciation. And it tastes so good.
While all of the previous mentioned reasons focus on refreshment, in a cooler and calmer climate there are also rich flavored tasty beers to enhance contemplation and sooth the soul. These are not quaffing beers. These are beers that are slowly sipped in contemplation. And it tastes so good.
Most importantly, over the years I've learned a great deal about beer. I know what it is made of, how it is brewed, how it is marketed, and how it is best served. Over the last twenty five years hundreds of chefs and cooks have spoken with me about pairing beer and food. During that time, I have had the chance to taste some of the finest beers and some of the finest food in North America and Europe.
Here in the office, on the wall in front of me as I work, there are five shelves. On the shelves there are altogether, approximately 350 to 400 bottles of beer. Almost all of them are empty. Each of them was consumed in a specific place at a specific time with specific people. Just as a batsman in cricket, pitcher in baseball, or forward in football, can recall almost every goal, every hit, or every pitch they have made, I can recall the story that goes with each one of these bottles of beer.
At least two days a week I take the opportunity to try a new beer. If I'm lucky, each time I get the chance to visit a new place, try some new food and meet some new people.
For all of the above reasons, particularly because after a few beers the world looks a lot better, I drink beer.
Cheers!
Peter LaFrance
