Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/292821
42 Beer 4 1 2 5 by Jean-Marc Aubuchon You've all experienced a destination wedding, an exotic trip, edgy bachelor party, big city bachelorette party. This trip is simpler, cheaper and just as satisfying; hangover is optional but likely. The beginning of the spring season is the perfect time to load up the family wagon (I drove one with wood side paneling as a teen), drop the top on a convertible or pack a lunch in the hatchback and visit a local brewery hotspot for a refreshing, delicious weekend getaway. I've compiled a few of my favorite spots, some just a few minutes from your front door, others a half day or so trek by car but worth it none the less. The fruits of your travels will come to light; come support your local brewer for now is when they need you the most. Let's face it folks, the craft beer segment is exploding. Our not so small brewers have begged, borrowed and stolen your taste buds for the better part of 20 years to claim over 6% market share in the USA, producing cool libations at over three thousand breweries. Now is the time to act, support them while they're hot, give the big brewers a reason to talk about us, and a reason to celebrate with us. Craft beer in the US is truly at an awesome moment in history, for we are brewing more beer than ever and supporting your local brewer is an easy wave to ride. Let's look at a few of my favorites here in the New England area. CISCO BREWERS, NANTUCKET MA Pony up the cash for the ferry and get over to Nantucket. Rubbing elbows with America's elite will do you some good! A 45 minute "HyLine Ferry" out of Hyannis on Cape Cod will bring you to the beautiful island of Nantucket. Another 15 minute van ride will deliver to you liquid freedom at Cisco Brewers. Choose from Triple 888 Spirits, Nantucket Vineyards and Cisco Beer to truly dial in your experience. Be sure to sample "Madaquet," their 7.7% west coast IPA, and pick up a few bottles of 88 Vodka for the wife. Great beer if you can get it. MAINE BEER CO, FREEPORT ME This is the cleanest, well-put together brewery you will ever see. "Maybe I'll leave my tasting tray on the table…Nah, I'll drop it at the bar." The entire state of Maine brings me to a state of relaxation. Drop wife and child at LL Bean, check. Drive 1.5 miles down exact same street to Maine Beer Co for a sampler 2 6 1 3 7 8 5