Alchemy Ale

On another visit to Old Chicago, I asked for a Widmer Brothers Drifter Pale Ale, because I like it and it seemed like just the thing for the day. The obliging waitress took my order and went away to fulfill it quickly. She returned to disappoint me, saying that she learned that Widmer Brothers no longer make it, but they have what’s called Alchemy Ale instead.

Now I have no complaints about Alchemy Ale. It’s top-notch. But it does not have the uniquely interesting hop flavors I remembered in Drifter.

Here is an example of a downside to the booming craft beer market. Brewers are constantly changing their offerings, marketing to the guy who wants to try something new. If I had may say, I’d tell an outfit like Widmer Brothers this: “Strive for perfection in the beer you produce. Go ahead and make the small changes to recipe and procedure, improving from one batch to the next. But then when you reach perfection, by all means, STOP RIGHT THERE!”