Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1112638
Cruisin' for Brews in Monterey County Microbrewer ies Galore on the Centr al Coast B Y G L E N N M C G O V E R N O n the eve of Prohibition, 1,000 plus active breweries in the United States ceased to exist. While the law would be revoked 13 years later, the damage had been done. By 1978, there were only 89 active breweries in the country. But in 1982, a half dozen micro brewers took their first steps on a beer revolution so that by the end 2017 there were over 6,300. In Monterey County, the "drought" would last longer, with the first craft brewery not appearing until 1996. Twenty-three years later, there are only five active breweries. While low in number in comparison to other coun- ties in California, each is unique, offering their patrons a different experi- ence in terms of interpretation of classic styles, experimentation with less- er known versions, and overall drinking and dining experience. Peter B's Brew Pub was founded in 1996 and is the oldest brew- ery in the county. Named after Peter Bidstrup, one of the original owners of the Portola Hotel & Spa, it has a well-deserved following. With a seven- barrel brewhouse located onsite, head brewer Justin Rivard maintains three flagships ales: The Belly Up Blonde ale, the Inclusion Amber ale, and the Legend of Laguna IPA. The remaining six seasonal varieties provides him with freedom to experiment. Brewing twice a week in the large cop- per kettles displayed in the entry, the current offerings include two wheat beers, a stout, a sour, a fruit forward ale and a citrus ale. Beyond the great brews, Peter B's offers a full bar and a wide selection of food to choose from. With 18 televisions, there is plenty to maintain your interest as you savor your brew(s). 224 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 9 Peter B's Brewpub, located at the Portola Hotel & Spa Monterey, brews craft beers like the Belly Up Blonde Ale, Inclusion Amber Ale, the Legend of Laguna IPA, and seasonal ales. Photo: Courtesy of Portola Hotel & Spa