Alpine/Alesmith Brewing Company - San Diego, CA

We finally arrived in San Diego on Day 6 and started off with Alpine. I already reviewed them. But this time around got to try O'Briens. It was good, but the standout as always was Nelson. Duet and Pure Hoppiness were good.
http://breweryinfo.blogspot.com/2013/05/alpine-brewery-alpine-ca.html

Next stop was my first visit to Alesmith. I only did a few quick samples here but I almost fell over when I tried the Double Coffee Speedway Stout. It was phenomenal. One of the best stouts I have ever had. The brewery is in a plaza.  Plenty of seating and it was even Speedway weekend and still wasn't too crowded. http://alesmith.com/

Alpine Brewery - Alpine, CA

Didn’t know too much about Alpine before going, but the only thing to say is WOW. As most people know, their beer is above exceptional. Some of the best beer in the country by far. It was a long drive, but well worth it. When you get there, the building itself isn’t much. Once inside the restaurant it’s just a few tables and a bar. I had the cheese basket which was nothing special but I regret not getting one of the sandwiches…they looked delicious.

-As for the beer I tried Nelson, Pure Hoppiness, Duet, Mango, New Millenium and Alpine Ale. All were as good as beer gets, especially Pure Hoppiness and Duet.

-After the beer we went next door to the gift shop/beer stop.  Tshirts for sale and other random merch.  Bought a few beers and were on our way.

-All in all this is a MUST stop if you’re within 2 hours, you won’t find much better beer than Alpine. Check them out!www.alpinebeerco.com/