My Favorite Things

Oxford's quite a pretty place in the fall.  The leaves here show the season like no place else I've ever lived, so it feels pretty special this time of year.  Walking through the autumnal foliage in the last few weeks has caused me to think a few times about what it is I appreciate about living in England (besides my special lady friend, of course--she's the #1 reason to be here).  One of the top contenders right now:

Ale

Real ale, or bitter, as its also known, offers a new beginning to those of us weaned on fizzy, insipid lager (what up, Miller Lite). Granted, the carbonation void makes for a huge hurdle (there's no carbon dioxide added to cask ale, so it's totally flat compared to traditional lagers).  It took me more than a few pints before I got over the feeling that I was drinking beer that'd been left out overnight.  In spite of the learning curve, even the worst English ales have a huge leg up on the majority of American beers in the flavor dept, & the difference can be eye-opening.  The varieties available are nearly endless, so I try to branch out as much as possible & taste different kinds.  Since many regions here have their own breweries, who change their offerings with the seasons, there's always something new to try.  Over the last 9 months, I've been building up a list of favorites.  Here's the first string as of now:

1. Adnam's Broadside

2. Fuller's 1845

3. Hobgoblin

4. Old Peculier

5. Brakspear Organic Oxford Gold