Expert: Chris Bushman - 2/20/2011

Question
Hi Chris. I notice in your bio that you never made a beer trip to the Czech Republic. I have a Czech friend who tells me that his country's beer is the best. Well, of course he'd say that, but it does have a reputation. You've been so close; why haven't you been there? Or is that your next trip?

Answer
Your Czech friend knows what he's talking about, Leonard.  The Czech Republic has many incredible Pilsners.  Pilsner Urquel ("the original Pilsner") is a great example.  In watching the war between Anheuser Busch and Budweiser Budvar, I'm always rooting for the Czech Bud.  It's a little sad that the traditional brewing methods have been compromised with the invasion of the big brewers buying up the traditional Czech breweries, but Czech Pilsners are still awesome.

I really want to do a beer trip to the Czech Republic, but haven't made it yet.  I've hit all the countries that have a reputation for great beer as well as great beer variety.  The reason that the Czech Republic was not at the top of my list is the variety part of the equation.  Belgium and the UK have a staggering variety of beers, so they started at the top of the list.  Yes, I think the CR is probably next on my list.

The older, traditional, places started at the top of my list because they are endangered species.  I wanted to visit them before they were swallowed up by the international megabrewers.  Those places where the craft beer scene is growing can wait a while because they will only improve over the short term.

I'm also intrigued by the burgeoning craft beer scene in Oz.  I think the mindset of the average beer geek Aussie is very similar to that of American beer geeks.  There's a fearless, adventuresome, curious quality that seems to be leading the charge down there.  I'd love to make that beer trip too.

Thanks for the question, Leonard.  It has gotten me thinking about my next trip abroad.  Maybe I should go dust off my passport!

Chris Bushman
Homebrewer and Beer Geek
Colfax, California, USA