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The world class cuisine and music of New Orleans are not the only unique products of the Crescent City’s history and spirit. On my recent visit to the Big Easy, I discovered the roots of Jazz, the staples of Cajun food, the best hot sauce, and the local spirit which I enjoyed over a cold bottle of Abita and a bowl of Gumbo.
I always make sure to sample the local beer wherever I travel. Beer is an integral part of cultures throughout the world. Music and language are the soul of culture. Beer and food is the body where it resides. Beer implies sharing. We listen to music and chat in our own colloquial ways over the beer that defines us. A “Nawlins” native reaches for Abita.
Abita brews a full line of varieties. Of their many brews, I only had a chance to try their “Jockamo” IPA, “Turbodog” Brown Ale, Abita Amber, and “Andygator” high gravity. Although I won’t go into each beer, I will comment on the “Turbodog” Brown Ale. It’s a good brew that is similar to Newcastle, but has more body and flavor. I would recommend it to any beer lover on their way to New Orleans.
Perhaps Abita’s best selling point is that it gives back to its needy hometown. Abita created the “Restoration Pale Ale” to help rebuild the city after Hurricane Katrina.
More recently, Abita brewed up a charity to help clean up the BP oil spill. They came up with a pilsner called “SOS,” or “Save Our Shore.” An impressive 75 cents is donated with each bottle sold. To date, over a quarter of a million dollars has been raised.
Unfortunately, you won’t find Abita in this area. According to the web site, the closest retailer that carries it is in New York. If you see it at a store near home, I’d highly recommend trying it out.
Even if you don’t like it, you’ll be happy to know that your money is going to a good cause. Visit www.abita.com/learn/giving-back.php for more information on the beer and how they are helping Katrina and BP victims in need. Grab an Abita and let the good times roll!
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