Okay, that title sounds worse than it should, but its true.  I don’t drink beer all that often, and when I drink it I usually only have one, maybe two.  Cris and I were watching a travel show earlier about Dublin, Ireland and the travel hostess went to the Guiness Brewery and had a complimentary pint after her tour.  Watching the show, I realized that I had the same affection for a pint of Guinness as the guy pouring at the Guinness brewery.

While I’m far from a connoisseur, and I don’t have the words of a critic, I thought I’d share some of my favorites to possibly spread the word about some truly great beers that some may not have come across.

Boddington’s Pub Ale – Its hard to declare one singular beer my favorite, but this is the current title holder.  For me, this English ale is the summer version of Guinness.  Described by one person as a vanilla Guinness, it has the same smooth texture as Guinness, but a bit lighter flavor.  I’ve had this both on tap and from their pint cans and its excellent both ways.  Just make sure you or the bartender poor correctly and let it settle.

Corsendonk Abbey Brown Ale – A Belgian ale that’s much darker than Boddington’s with a fuller, heavier flavor.  Finishes with a nice spice flavor.  I’m a big fan of this one during fall and winter.

Guinness – Um, its Guinness.  Pretty much everyone know about Guinness so no explanation or description needed; its just good.  Be aware that Guinness people are pretty serious about the beverage so give it proper respect.  And for the record, its not as heavy in calories as everyone thinks it is.

Red Stripe – A Jamaican lager that’s a bit lighter and great for the warmer months.  Always makes me want to be in a hammock by some water somewhere.  Easily the best commercials of any beer, ever.

Delirium Tremens – One of the newer beers in terms of history, but it has great personality to it.  ABelgian brewed, strong pale ale with a bit more kick than Boddington’s, but still quite good.  It also has the coolest name and character.  Delirium Tremens is a state of “trembling madness” that is often associated with alcohol withdrawal, and the pink elephant “mascot” is perfect.

Yuengling – Despite the unusual name Yuengling is a traditional American amber lager and is the oldest beer in America.  The only American beer on this list, its also the most simple and straightforward.  This is my basic beer choice and my “watching the game” beer.

So their you have it, my typical drinks of choice.  This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but its what’s at the top of the list at the moment.  Hopefully, if you’re in the mood for trying something different you’ll give one of these a try and enjoy it.  I’m always up for trying something different, so if you have any recommendations, please share in the comments section.