Nestled within the confines of a humble Jamaica Plain neighborhood is the closest thing that Boston has to Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. For all of you wondering where to start searching for that elusive gold ticket, there is no need to worry, as entry requires only a label from a Sam Adams bottle, which is provided at the majestic gates. With the proper identification, a free beer tasting - perhaps the tour's version of the glass elevator - cordially awaits those who embark on an hour-long tour of the Samuel Adams brewery. Though the finale may be the highlight, learning how one man took a family recipe and single-handedly launched the American microbrew movement makes any beer enthusiast want to raise a glass to Jim Koch, founder and brewmaster of the Boston Beer Company.
The Samuel Adams Boston Lager first made its way to local bars in 1985 and now sits proudly in President George W. Bush's fridge. The President may not be the drinker he once was, but our tour guide speculates that W's daughters have an affinity for Sam Adams. The Boston Lager was also the first American beer to be sold - and respected for that matter - in Germany, due to its fulfilling taste and strict adherence to the four basic beer ingredients: hops, barley, yeast, and water. But enough with the logistics; as long as it tastes good, its chemistry should be a mere afterthought.
The only way to judge a beer's true quality is by tasting it, and the factory employees briskly moved our tour of 50 or so thirsty souls from the factory floor to an in-house tavern with the sole purpose of celebrating the quality of Samuel Adams. The common myth of "all you can drink" can be put to rest as you are given a modest 6 ounce glass and are instructed on the proper techniques of tasting beer. Both the Boston Lager and seasonal selection are first examined, followed by a special, "experimental" brew. In our case, we were able to sample a delightfully rich brown ale concocted by a local news anchor.
Though the tour guides attempt to remain professional, it is easy to see their unquenchable passion for the quality of their craft - or maybe it is just the beer talking. Either way, it is absolutely worth your while, as both an educational experience and a pleasurable early afternoon escape, to visit the Samuel Adams Brewery. A
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