How To Guide: Russian River Brewing Company

As someone pointed out to me last night, the log needs more travel tips to keep on the theme of beer traveling.  This is a valid insight, the purpose of the blog was not to just review things but to offer some type of guidance on how to get there and what to do.  This, coupled with a some beer enthusiasts enquiring about logistics in getting over to Russian River, has led to this blog, which will give some pointers on visiting Russian River Brewing Company's Brew Pub in Santa Rosa, California.

Step #1 - Enjoy the Golden Gate

Santa Rosa airport now has some direct flights from San Diego and other locations, but the majority of us will probably use San Francisco or Oakland as a port of entry, so I am covering arrival into SFO here.  Upon arrival into SFO, pick up your rental car and head north on the 101 over the Golden Gate, there is no toll going northward, and if you do not get to San Francisco often, this should not be missed.  Your total driving time is normally 80-90 minutes but totally dependent on possible hellish city traffic in Frisco.  North of the Golden Gate, traffic should open up and it is a straight shot on the 101 to Santa Rosa to exit 489 (3rd Street). Your first stop should be securing a location to park the car at your hotel.  Since I know you, and you are just here to enjoy libations at Russian River - I would recommend the Travelodge for accommodations.  It is basic, cheap, saves you cab ride (it is within stumbling distance about .4 miles or 750m) and you are probably going to be very drunk at the end of the evening and will not be worried about any amenities that may be missing.

From here you can proceed down the street, hang a left on 4th, and you have reached your nirvana point at 725 4th Street. I would be remiss if I did not warn that Russian River's legendary status in the craft beer world has created a crush of humanity trying to get into its doors.  The best bet "Pro Tip" (for lack of better verbiage) is to go during the week or early on a Sunday.  This will save you waiting for a table, or having to wait like a vulture for someone to surrender their bar seat.  The below pic is taken on a Sunday afternoon, I do have one from a Friday night but it is just the back of people's shirts (not very exciting).

Barrel Aging Goodness and Deliciousness from the Taps

Lots of strategies here depending on your fancy, you can go for variety with a taster selection offering, including the rather incredible everything sampler.  If you are here for the classics, I would recommend the Blind Pig IPA followed by Pliny the Elder followed by a break and then moving onto the Damnation and/or sour offerings.  However you tackle it, you will not be disappointed.  If you have come for bottles to take home to amaze friends and loved ones, check the chalkboard for what is available, not everything is always available.

For food options in the brew pub, I would go with the pizzas, which are a solid option.  If you are just here for a nibble, stick to the charcuterie plate or the caprese.  The brew pub is situated right in downtown Santa Rosa, so there are many options for a meal beforehand or afterwards..

So Much Goodness, So Little Time

Even The Ladies Love Russian River

But let's get back to those beers.  While everyone knows about Blind Pig and Pliny the Elder, Russian River also delivers a really delicious Belgian styled Golden Ale called Damnation.  This would rank up there with the classic true Belgian golden ales, banana, yeast, and spice. The barrel aged quartet of Consecration, Supplication, Beatification, and Temptation will satisfy "brett" junkies and pucker lips.  Consecration which is a dark ale aged in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels remains one of my favorite beers in the world.  Spice, currants, the wine, chocolate and more swirl in amazing complexity in this beer, and at 10% ABV, it packs a wallop.  There are also milder session beers available on tap here, like the Aud Blonde, O.V.L. Stout, and Saison Blonde.

Cheers to You If You Have Made It This Far

After you had your fill, retreat to your hotel room, hydrate and sleep it off. In the morning, get in your car and head over to Colibri (no website, just google it) for a solid breakfast and then plot you next move.  Bear Republic, North Coast, or retreating to the stellar bar options in San Francisco are all valid options.  It is good to have options, isn't it?

PS. If you are looking for the Younger, show up in early February and be prepared to wait in a very, very, very long line.