Apparently winter is getting ready to set in. Sucks, we know, but what can you do? Well, I'm glad you asked! Here is a suggestion for a good weekend activity, inspired by Latah Bistro's port and chocolate samplers:
Drink: Grab some port wine from Huckleberry's or Bottles or wherever else you get your libations. For whatever reason port doesn't seem to get much love around these parts, and that's kind of sad. While it doesn't have the the largest shelf presence, there are still plenty to choose from -- pick up anything from a classic barrel aged tawny port or Washington produced bottled aged pink port. Try anything in between too, it's part of the fun.
Eat: Chocolate. Main Market, Huckleberry's, and Rocket Market all have good picks of brands and varieties. The Theo Chocolate and Bread, for example, is odd but good. In fact, the chocolate can dictate the evening: classic dark is good for an ascot-style tasting; crazy peppered chocolate can kick things up a bit.
Watch: Mad Men. I mean, I'm sure you already watch it, and we're definitely late to the party, but it does go well with the chocolate and port.
Yes, we are asking for your input. Readers of the site will probably have a pretty good idea what establishments we will nominate for our inaugural Best of Spokane -- Readers Poll vote, but maybe we're overlooking something? (Not too likely, seeing we have 122 options already.)
Therefore, e-mail us if you have any suggestions for nominees in the following categories. The actual vote, where you can participate and select the Best of Spokane, will happen next Friday. This is merely a call for nominees.
Best Restaurant
Best Cheap Eats
Best Bar
Best Pizza
Best Restroom
Best Market
Best Coffee Roaster
Best Brewery
Best Winery
Best Coffee Shop/Bakery
We might just include your nominees, or we might not. You won't know unless you e-mail us! And remember, next Friday let's make that Wednesday you will be able to vote for your favorite.
In a time where craft and micro breweries are popping up all over the map -- even in Airway Heights -- it's easy to forget about some of the old masters. Like Sierra Nevada, for example. Their Celebration might possibly be the best seasonal ale you will sample this winter.
This is an IPA that will punch you and laugh in your face after the fact. In fact, the first whiff of it is a slap itself. The hops (almost) literally grabs you by the nose to pull you in. Sure, there are hints of citrus and spices too, but it's obvious you're in for a Hops VS You situation here.
When it hits the mouth the true battle begins. Hops are jumping all over the place. Yet, surprisingly enough, just when you think the sucker-punch will hit you, the flavors mellow out. The hopiness pushes you to the limit, but does not exceed it. And as the hop flavor mellows, you feel the gentle flavors of spices and orange carefully massage your mouth back into shape, preparing you for the next sip.
The balance sets in as a surprise, and a happy one at that.
At 6.8% the Celebration can probably get a bit too rowdy if you kick back too many, but really, this is a sipping beer, and one that goes perfectly with the cold weather at that.
Sierra Nevada deserves your respect, and Celebration should have a spot in your beer cellar.
