by Kris Mulkey
The first thing you notice about Don Barkley is his big smile and the twinkle in his eye. This is a man who loves life, and loves what he’s doing – which is making beer. In fact, he’s been making craft beer longer than anyone in the USA. It all started at New Albion in Sonoma in 1978, which was the first microbrewery in the U.S. They started the whole craft beer movement. He then went on to start Mendocino Brewing Company in 1983 and is now the head brew master at Napa Smith Brewery.
We sat down at the bar in their new tasting room and enjoyed a flight of beers.
The flight was delicious, and so was his company.
One of my favorite stories of the day is how the dog got on the label. It turns out they also make wine. One year a neighbor’s dog got lost in their wine plot. There were “Lost Dog” signs posted all over the vineyard. Don and his team thought it was a strange place for lost dog signs since there were rarely people in the vineyard. The image of the signs and the dog stuck with Don and are now forever captured on the Lost Dog Ale label. And yes, the dog did find his way home.
I love a good story. But I do believe it’s time to drink some beer.
Napa Smith Pilsner, 5.0% alc – is balanced, complex and refreshing all at the same time. They use traditional bohemian and Bavarian malts and noble European hops for a slightly spicy aroma. (limited availability) Available in 4-PK BTL.
Napa Smith Ginger Wheat, 4.6% alc – fresh ginger is added to each batch they brew, which brings a new dimension to this American filtered wheat beer. While still delicate and smooth, this wheat beer has unique floral and citrus notes on the finish. Pair with fish, salads and lighter fare. Available in 4-PK BTL.
Napa Smith Pale Ale, 5.2% alc – is a traditional style pale ale. It’s medium-bodied with a bright golden color and a dense white foam head. Available in 4-PK BTL.
Napa Smith Amber Ale, 5.7% alc – is the most popular beer in the Napa Valley. It has a deep amber color and long-lasting foam head. It pairs really well with grilled meats and bbq. Available in 22oz BTL and 4-PK BTL.
Napa Smith Organic IPA, 7.0% alc – this is their best selling beer. It has a nice malt backbone that supports the generous amount of hops, and finishes with a bitterness and soft citrus character that IPA drinkers enjoy. It won a silver medal at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival. Its other claim to fame is it’s the ONLY organic IPA sold in Sweden and it’s the only IPA on the Disney beer list. So if you’re planning a trip to Sweden or Disneyland, you can now relax. Available in 4-PK BTL.
Napa Smith Lost Dog, 7.2% alc – is a red ale that is rich and robust, with a hoppy finish that practically rolls over and begs for another taste. Craft brew lover’s love this red ale. It was one of my favorites, too. Available in 22oz BTL and 4-PK BTL.
And last, but not least – the Hopageddon.
Hopageddon, 9.2% alc – is fiery orange in color and showcases a full white head. It’s bitter with a fruity flavor. It’s a special release, and is only available for a limited time starting December 21st. So mark your calendars. You don’t want to miss this one. Available in 22oz BTL and 4-PK BTL.
Every bottle of beer has a suggested food pairing on the back. Because let’s face it, beer tastes pretty darn good with food. And not just ball park food either.
Here’s where the magic happens.
*Available in CA locations. Soon to be in AZ (January.)
