05/29/2009 Trip

My gosh, where does the time go? The Good Rats made a trip a few weeks back and I failed to acknowledge the fun we had. I think Good Rat Todd might have written something about it and I'll do my best to find it so I can either post it here myself or link to his musings.

Yesterday Good Rats Darren, Todd, Andy, Kelly L., Kelly P., Patricia and I made a rat run south. We all piled into my seven passenger van with me at as the initial driver. GR Darren had volunteered to be the DD this trip so after our fist stop he took over.

For several reason our first stop was at Salmon Creek Brewery and Pub. I've written about this place before and all the GR's agree that it's a must stop any time we head south. The Brewmaster there is an old friend and whether he likes it or not is officially a Good Rat. After a most enjoyable lunch and a brew or two GR Mike spent the day with us. Between telling stories about his previous life and showing us new places to try he talked about the brew process which I hope some day to try my hand at.

We timed our visit to Salmon Creek just right because they just started serving their summertime Hellis Bells. A golden colored German Summer Ale that goes down smooth with a crisp refeshing finish, perfect for those hot summer days. I've decided that this will be the featured beer at this summer's deck party. I'm willing to bet it will all disappear over the course of an afternoon.

*** A MUST VISIT *** I have no vested interest in this place but if you're in the Portland/Vancouver area you have to go visit Salmon Creek located at 108 W Evergreen Blvd in downtown Vancouver USA. Say hi to owners Larry and Ana or GR Mike if he's working. Tell them the Good Rats sent you.

The weather was fantastic and once we parked in the Pearl District of Portland we walked to all the places we wanted to visit. I may not remember them all but there was the Rogue. Most if not all the GR's are members of the Rogue Nation. By the way, I embarrisingly found out that guys are Hops and the women are Barley. You'll know what I mean if you ever have to use their restrooms.

I remember there was Ringler's Annex, a "tiny and terrific" corner pub now owned by McMenamin's. This place is a real treat especially if you like small. We sat in the cellar where it was cool and private. Although I switched to a single malt for this sitting I did try their Ruby which was a refreshingly nice drink.

The Deschutes Brewery was next and quite honestly I don't remember what I had. I think it was a seasonal of some kind. It's a nice newer place and a whole lot bigger than what we'd just walked from.

GR Darren was insistant that he had to get home for a dance recital but we talked him into stopping at Amnesia Brewing. GR Mike suggested it and as it turned out was on the east side and it was necessary to drive to that one. Again, I don't remember what I had, Mountain something or Dry something. Dry Mountain? I don't know but I liked it. The best part about this place was the outdoor BBQ going on. Wow! The smells. How could you not have a hamburger here?

The day was too short but we all had a great time and we're already planning the next trip. GR Andy (now living several hours drive north of here) thinks we need to head north to Seattle for the next trip so who knows where we'll end up.