Hood River Weekend: Saturday is Beer Day

In an attempt to be the world's best girlfriend I planned a trip for Greg and I after his last massive test in his Ph.D program. I chatted with Josh for ideas, and he helped me decide on a place where we could have both adventure and R and R - Hood River.

We rolled in late Friday night and rose early. First thing on the docket was adventure, which we got in the form of white water rafting on the White Salmon river. We had a total blast with our guide, and loved the experience. After we got off the water we rolled back across the border into Oregon to start the relaxation part of the weekend. What does that mean? Beer!

Our first stop was Pfriem on Portway Ave. A new brewery in Hood River, we came across it while walking along the water to watch the para-surfers. The staff were kind enough to serve us outside so the dog could stay with us (thanks Maggie and Kelsey). A family affair, the brew pub is full of evidence that the space is meant to be kid-friendly. Toys were available in the main room, and there were supplies for mothers to change diapers in the rest room. Everyone was kind and happy to share about themselves...and, of course, their beer.

We got the full tasting flight, which went from light to dark. The Wit was fruity and light with a crisp mouth feel. The Belgian Strong Blonde was wonderfully spicy with hints of vanilla and a sweet finish. I enjoyed the Blond IPA, which was a solid balance between citrus and hops. The IPA took that hoppiness to the next level. My favorite was by far the Belgian Strong Dark. This beer was full of complex flavors including vanilla, fig, and chocolate. I found it to have almost a liqueur finish. I ordered a wonderful glass along with some of the garlic pub fries. An awesome treat!

They were so dog-friendly at Pfriem that they even brought Summit a drink. Sadly, she had too much and ended up passed out in the bushes :)

We ended our night by hitting up Double Mountain. Here too we were able to sit outside with the dog and get service. I ordered the Devil's Kriek, a strong sour that was aged with bing cherries. This beer was powerful and fruity. The use of the wild yeast in its brewing give it an edgy flavor. I really liked this beer - it was full-bodied and vibrant. Greg hit up the Vaporizer, a pale ale with a wonderfully golden glow and rounded balance of hops and malt. We did not have food here (we were jonesing for thai), but what we saw looked delicious!