The writer was invited on a complimentary tour.
Everyone knows the ancient Egyptians drank beer, right? Well, did you know they made 36 different styles of beer for different occasions? I didn’t.
I learned that fantastic factoid on the brand new Jersey Shore edition of the City Brew Tours franchise. Darren Blanco was our driver, tour guide, and chief conversation starter. He’s also the franchise owner. Busy guy.
Drink Beer. Learn Stuff.
One thing Blanco isn’t is a taxi service. This bus ride is not just about getting from point A to point B. Be prepared to learn about beer history, style development, flavor profiles, and food pairings. My tour was a press event with some serious beer geeks. We all agreed that each one of us learned something new on the tour.
Have Fun!
That is not to say that it’s all boring academic. It is all about beer after all. Many laughs were had! My point is that this tour is not meant to be a frat party. You don’t have to be a be deep into beer either. With something for everyone, Blanco can guide newbies through a very enjoyable experience, too.
The Long and the Short of It
The two tour options include the Sip of the Jersey Shore, and the Original. The Sip of the Jersey Shore offers three brewery stops with a flight of four tasters at each one. It typically lasts about three-and-a-half hours and is great way to finish off your day at the beach.
The Original tour runs about five hours and includes an extra stop where you get a beer-paired meal. If you have a group event, private tours can be arranged as well. Oh, and if you’re an UNTAPPD user, you can check in your beers at City Brew Tours!
Darren Blanco and City Brew Tours is a fun and educational addition to the northern Jersey Shore beer scene. Now, I wonder what the Egyptians ate with New England IPAs? They’re so tough to pair with food. Perhaps a question for another tour?
