Stone Arrogant Bastard – Stone Brewing Co, Escondido, CA

Stone Arrogant Bastard - 4/5

Arrogant Bastard is the epitome of San Diego style brewing. It’s bold, hoppy and in your face. The attitude with this beer is that if you don’t like it then you’re not worthy and let me tell you, you better like hops.

Unlike their IPA which to me is all hop, Arrogant bastard is a better balanced beer but not as perfectly balanced as their pale ale. You will get a nice caramel and florally hop smell which is not as aggressive as the taste. In the mouth there is a strong citrus and floral hop followed by a rich caramel note.

If Stone Pale Ale had a ugly, overly aggressive, pubescent, older brother or friend then this would be it. It’s the Wayne to the Kevin Arnold or the Biff to the Marty. You get the idea.

Stone Pale Ale - Stone Brewing Co - Escondido, CA

Stone Pale Ale, Stone Brewing Co - 4/5

Stone Pale was one of the first local San Diego microbrews I stumbled across and is now a “go-to” beer for me.

It’s hoppy and malty and strikes what I feel to be one of the most perfectly balanced pale ales on the shelves.
It pours out a light hazy amber color and to the mouth you will get a subtle toffee maltiness harmoniously balanced with a bold floral hop.

It has the drinkability to be a session beer but also the complexity to be paired with cheeses and meats.

I am so fond of this beer that we served it to our guests at our wedding. What better way to showcase a local San Diego brew than to offer it to a mob of thirsty Australians.

Stone IPA – Stone Brewing Co - Escondido, CA

Stone IPA – Stone Brewing Co - 4/5

You've heard me rant on about overly hoppy beers in the past but this IPA is exceptional.

Although very hoppy, I find it to be smooth and well balanced with a light citrusy taste.

This is not a consumption beer in any way. I often find myself wanting something a little lighter after about 3 or 4 of them so I usually reserve Stone IPA as an accompaniment to a big, meaty, juicy burger. The ultimate paring in my eyes.