Napa for Beer Take 2

The second day in Napa was dominated by wine tasting. We hired a car and driver to whisk us around to several wineries so that we didn't have to deal with the drinking and driving thing. The early evening however was dedicated to beer. Just north of the town of St. Helena is the Silverado Brewing Company. The brewery/restaurant is located in the Freemark Abbey winery building, an old stone structure that immediately reminds you of a medieval castle. Unfortunately the architecture is about the only thing that was great about this brewery. I should revise that statement, we didn't order any food so that may be bearable and the bartender on duty was pleasant but the beer was lacking. I ordered the sampler and didn't find a need to finish it. The problem with all the beers tried were that they lacked flavor. The Blonde Ale, Krolsch, Amber Ale, Pale Ale and Oatmeal Stout all tasted like watered down versions. The only beer that came across with any flavor was the Meebock which was a fairly malty Maibock. After hearing so many good things about this place I was very surprised. However the beer that is often discussed and complimented, the IPA, wasn't on tap. Hopeful it is far better than the beers currently available. If you decide to make the stop skip the sampler, sit outside, try the Meebock and enjoy the architecture. Silverado provides a comfortable place to break from the wine trail.

The last stop of the day wasn't beer related but it did deal with well crafted items. Just south of St. Helena on the way to Napa we came across the St. Helena Olive Oil Company. Inside the store the expansive floor space was set up with individual table displays allowing everyone to taste and discover their favorite olive oils. It seemed odd at first to sample oil but with so many different types and flavors it was soon easy to understand all oils are not the same. It's not just extra virgin, the Olive Oil Company creates jalapeno, orange, garlic, basil, lemon and many other varieties. The store also sells vinegars, sauces, honey and of course wine. This was truly a tasty find and the first time that a sampling of olive oil was more enjoyable than a sampler of beer.