Thursday 8th of August 2013 04:40:08 PM

link
California and earthquakes....they go hand in glove...and as a native Californian (although I've been away for 40 years!) I've been through my share of shakes and I can tell you, with complete honesty, I'd rather experience any of those knee-bucklers than a hurricane or tornado.

A quake, y'see just happens...there is no warning so there is some fear, some trepidation about might go on and just when you think it's over and all is well -- well, then come the so-called after shocks....those supposedly less-than rumbles that aren't as powerful -- until the news readers report that the quake, measuring 4.3 on the Richter was followed an after-shock measuring 4.0.

Yeah. Little rumble.

Perhaps that's why one of the breweries in Temecula valley chose to call itself Aftershock...not the biggest, baddest, meanest around...but still making itself known.

On a sunny Sunday, wife Persimmon and I took it upon ourselves to visit all 5 of Temecula's breweries. It took a little less than 3 hours. We consumed 55 beers and only little Aftershock, our 1st stop, left an impression.

A small tap-room was very welcoming...the bartender, knowledgable and extremely courteous - more than willing to pour 2 ounces instead of 4 for each of her 11 samples...and only charged us half price. (To the other breweries credit, they all did likewise except one which will go un-named but it rhymes with Sack Market.)

And the beers were different, well-thought-out and executed. Another home brewer who, after 27 years decided to give the business a try.

On our visit, he was producing a Strawberry Short Quake Blonde that, had it been ice cold, would have been a perfect introduction to this warm (bordering on hot) August afternoon. With just a touch of berry flavor, it proved to be quite refreshing. An Oktoberfest ale was also on tap along with the necessary IPA's (3) - 2 Imperial Stouts (one brewed with Starbucks and it proved to be vastly superior to the other) - a Belgian strong that was delicious and a Chili Ale that was mild which allowed for a nice taste without losing the heat.

All in all, it was the highlight for these day-trippers and with proper promotion, Aftershock could just become an 8.0 on the Gambrinus scale.