On the Road: Los Gatos Brewing Company

It's been nearly two years since I last wrote an "On the Road" post. However, my new gig has me traveling quite a bit. What better way to take advantage of my downtime than to visit breweries?

First up on my travels is Los Gatos Brewing Company in San Jose, CA.

To be honest, after a long day of traveling, just about any beer would have tasted good to me. I was in the mood for something light and refreshing, and Log Gatos' Kolsch did the trick. It wasn't the best example of the style I've ever had. It lacked the mild white wine quality you get from a good Kolsch yeast. There was definitely more a of a Blonde Ale vibe to my palate. Nonetheless, it did its job as a refresher. The Cask ESB was more true to style. It was served at a nice cellar temp, and carried light carbonation, plus an earthy black tea bite from the hops.

If more radical beer is what you're in the mood for, this isn't the pub for you. Despite just two locations, Los Gatos has a very corporate feel that leans toward the safe side. It honestly reminded me of a BJ's or Rock Bottom, with its safe beer and seemingly focus-group approved food menu.

That said, it was nice to find a place brewing its own beer so close to my hotel. If I'm back in San Jose again, I'll probably be back here too.

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