With Michigan’s economy struggling, a new industry has been taking shape and reforming what the state of Michigan is known for.  Beer.  CRAFT beer.  All across the state craft breweries are popping up, waiting to satisfy thirsty Michiganders and making proclaimed wine drinkers drive 3 plus hours just to get a beer called “Horny Monk.”

If you are wondering exactly what details a craft beer, click here for a quick 411.  While most breweries order their hops, if you travel along Michigan’s north you will see dozens of hop fields sprinkled in between the vineyards – they are actually quite pretty.  I’m willing to bet very soon, a good number of these craft brewers will be using locally grown hops and I can’t wait to taste if there’s a difference.  Another huge plus for these Michigan craft breweries?  The ones I’ve been to have fantastic food.  And the ones I haven’t been to?  Well I hear those have amazing food too.  …would you get the idea here I have a thing for amazing food??

My husband is the Craft beer aficionado in the family but I’ve happily gone along to a few breweries and I’ll post my highlights.  But in the meantime, take advantage of the summer and go explore Michigan’s fantastic craft beer scene.  Since you don’t really get to taste samples of beer like you do wine (at least not anywhere I’ve been to) my advice is to always split a flight with someone else.  That way you both get to taste a variety and can then order a pint of your favorite.  If your favorite happens to be available by growler, order it to go.  Growlers are pretty cool – and they are meant to be refilled so save yourself a few pennies and don’t leave it at home when you go back to the brewery.

A word of caution – the craft brews usually have a much higher alcohol content than regular beers, so don’t plan to toss back a six pack by yourself at the first tailgate of football season.