Honolulu Weekly

As far as professional titles go, “brewmaster” is tough to beat. But Kona Brewing Company brewmaster Rich Tucciarone says he’s just a “beer guy.” Either way, Tucciarone knows his stuff. He can talk beer history and rattle off exciting limited releases from breweries across the country. Of course, he also knows what’s on tap locally. We asked Tucciarone for five beers not to miss this summer–and limited him to just one KBC pick.

1. This time of year, the first that comes to mind would be Wailua Wheat. It’s crisp, light, refreshing, accented with fresh tropical passion-fruit aroma. It’s super quenching, goes great with grilled fish, salads, more summer type fare. And I know you said only one Kona but I want to slip in one more. We’re brewing our Oceanic Organic Belgian-style saison. It’s brewed with 100 percent organic malt and hops and spiced with organic coriander and grains of paradise–they’re kind of like small grains, they have a flavor and aroma similar to cardamom and white pepper. It really adds a nice little spiciness to the beer. I’m just excited to drink it.

2. I think Gordon Biersch does an excellent dunkel. It has a nice toasted malt character.

3. Big Aloha Brewery in Honoluu has a really nice Kiawe Honey Porter. That’s nice, dark and roasty.

4. Mehana, I like their Mauna Kea Pale Ale. It has a nice refreshing hop aroma.

5. Maui Brewing Company’s Red Cock Doppel Bock. That’s a dark lager. And, you know, it’s a great season for drinking.

Jose’s Cafe & Cantina

For summer fun