I'm enjoying a bottle of Black Butte Porter that Denise brought back from her trip out west. The text on the neck of the bottle reads:

"Dark and distinctive like Black Butte itself, Black Butte Porter uses chocolate and crystal malts, crafting a rich, approachable porter. Settled on the banks of the wild and scenic Deschuttes River, Deschuttes Brewery's handcrafted ales are naturally made with pristine water from the cascade mountains. A fine layer of yeast in each bottle is a result of the kraeusening process, creating natural cabonation and distinct flavor."

I'm flying out to the San Francisco bay area tomorrow for a few days, so this Oregon-brewed beer is getting me into the west coast spirit.

- mike lee - baltimore