This past week the “Beers To You” crew took to the road to deliver the “Real Beer” message. Fellow Charleston brewer Jeff Rabatin and I gave two presentations on the complexities of the world’s oldest beverage. The first presentation took place Tuesday evening at the Charleston Women’s Club. We were invited to speak at a function attended by several members of Charleston’s excellent wine club “Les Amis du Vin.” I’d say at least 35 to 40 people attended. There was excellent food and — dare I say — excellent hand-crafted beer supplied by Jeff and myself. We were very pleased that the interest level was so high and that so many folks engaged us with what seemed like hundreds of questions. I hope we are invited back to do it again.

The second presentation took place Wednesday evening at the Summit Conference Center downtown on Summers Street. We were invited to speak to a joint meeting of two prominent professional societies; The American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AICHE) and The Instrument Society of America (ISA). Once again, the response was very positive and judging by the many questions on our archaic beer laws, the message is getting out. It truly seems that people are looking for more flavorful and interesting beer. We will never convert everyone, but I do think there is enough demand to pique the interest of the large beer distributors and challenge their status-quo mentality.

I will continue to evangelize the beer message until I am legally able to go to Kroger’s or The Wine Shop at Capitol Market and pick up a bottle of 9% ABV La Fin Du Monde; appropriately symbolizing the law change as being the end of the world as we know it… (and as the R.E.M song adds “I feel fine”…)

READER’S NOTE: If you or someone else you know is involved in a civic, professional or special interest group or club that would be interested in having the “Beers To You” crew pay a visit, e-mail me at rireland@suddenlink.net. We work for beer, wine, food — or just a pat on the back… We would be happy to give a presentation on beer and brewing.

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