Brewsylvania

Nothing stirs intense debate within the blogosphere like a top-whatever list. An article via CNN this week ranked the top eight beer cities in the United States. I must admit that I thought I'd see Pittsburgh on there. Unfortunately I didn't, but Philadelphia did make the list.

Almost a year ago I wrote something about how this side of Pennsylvania knew how to drink and the Philadelphia side knew how to eat. I remember a few people close to the Philly area not being too happy about that. Maybe things have changed on my end.

I certainly have my favorite beers and brewing companies here in Pittsburgh. East End Brewing always has an awesome selection. Full Pint Brewing Company in North Versailles has an interesting group of people at the brewery and has an awesome lineup as well. Is there a neater brewery in Pittsburgh to have a great beer and an awesome meal than Church Brew Works in Lawrenceville?

Despite my obvious bias, I've grown closer to a few beers/breweries from Philadelphia. One of my favorite breweries in all of Pennsylvania has been Troegs in Hershey. I must admit that Yards Brewing in Philadelphia has quickly climbed my charts. That has been evident in my musings on this blog on multiple occasions.

Even Mr. Penn would be proud.

The thought of Philadelphia Pale Ale makes my mouth water. Can I speak about the the Ales of the Revolution any more without people thinking I'm in love with them? The Love Stout is something I'm curious about trying. Still, I'm not yet sure my tongue is ready for a oyster stout (at least it's an oyster stout according to a friend that visited the brewery).

I honestly don't have a problem with the list. Maybe I'm just sparking some debate? I think both cities do an amazing job in terms of craft beer. Keep brewing and drinking, Pennsylvania. I still have one request. I want a beer with William Penn on the label.