Karl Strauss Brewery Review - 016

In what seems to be a rising trend of Gastropub/Brewery hybridization, San Diego’s Karl Strauss Brewing Company claims to be the first on the southland’s scene in 1989, making lofty statements such as “...{we} became home to more breweries, many of whom got their start {here}”. Steve, Joey, and our guest Craig (@wottoartist) head to a the recently remodeled Costa Mesa location to sample new school experiments like Boat Shoes New England IPA, Fergs Red IPA, Padre Porter, and 29th Anniversary Ale; as well as some classics like Wreck Alley Imperial Stout, Red Trolley (and it’s Red Wine Barrel Aged variant), and Pintail Pale Ale. They savored some apps and entrees as well, and pondered whether Karl Strauss’ claims of shepherding in the highly influential world of San Diego microbrews hold water, or if they leave us thirsty for something a bit more satisfying.