Last week, I had to return to Huntsville, Alabama for work. Once Henning and I found out that we were going, we made it a point to remember the restaurants and bars that we went to last year so we could go again. From Little Paul’s Barbecue, to Bumpers Billiards, to Humphrey’s Bar & Grill – we made sure to stop at all of them…

…but there was only one place I wanted to go when I was back in Huntsville – Olde Towne Brewery.

Before I even left for Alabama I called my friend and Assistant Brewer Kevin McCormick to tell him we were coming back to town. He was happy to hear that and graciously invited us to come visit once again. Besides the fact that they brew amazing beer – their generosity and hospitality are second to none. I wholeheartedly accepted his invitation and Henning and I went there on Thursday night.

As soon as we pulled up, we were greeted by our old friend and mascot of the brewery Barley, who had a new friend in Lulu – Don Alan’s girlfriend’s dog. Then Kevin came up to me and gave me a big Alabama hug. After saying hello to Henning, we all went to the bar and once again enjoyed some great beer while catching up. Kevin informed me that very soon, they will be bottling their beer rather than just selling it in kegs. I am very happy for him and the boys and hope that goes well. I also hope that he includes New Jersey on his distribution list. Like I said about them in my first column about Old Towne Brewery, Don Alan and Kevin take pride in the beer they produce, and it is that passion that is reflected in the amazing product they make. That is why I enjoy their company and wish them nothing but success.

After once again reuniting myself with their Pale Ale and Hefeweizen, I was now able to try some other beers that they brewed since the last time I was there. The first one was a Porter. It’s dark appearance and rich aroma was something to behold – but nothing compared to its taste. I usually do not prefer dark beers because I find them to be too heavy, but this one was so good I asked for a second glass. It has all the characteristics of a Porter, but not the heaviness that usually comes along with them. Once again, they brewed the perfect beer.

The next one I tried was their Amber, which was my favorite. I loved how delicious it was. Its rich, smooth taste left me wanting to keep filling my glass each time I took a sip. I want to have a tap installed in my house with a never ending supply of it. Anyone who tries this Amber will never again have one from another brewing company. Anyone with a brain can brew beer – but Don Alan and Kevin should teach other brewers how to do it right, because they do each and every time.

If offering us their beer while we chatted was not generous enough, Kevin gave Henning and I a six-pack each to take back to our hotel with us. Henning got the Hefeweizen and I got the Pale Ale. We then said our goodbyes to Kevin and asked him to give Don Alan our best.

I have to say that I am really glad that Henning and I met them at Humphrey’s Bar & Grill the first time we came to Alabama. Kevin and Don Alan are true gentlemen. They are experts at what they do and that shows in the fine beers they make. They are also extremely polite, hospitable and kind. I do not know when I will be in Alabama again, but I know that whenever that is, I will certainly pay my Southern friends a visit once again.

Thanks again for everything guys. I hope to see you again soon.