I'm trying to branch out beer wise. I always go to specs and stare at the wall of beers for an hour. I prefer darker, heavier beers but I'm open. As long as it's not bud light. Enlighten me!
Budweiser.... in all seriousness get some St. Arnolds. Go visit the brewery for true enlightenment...
I've been meaning to. I like their stout and their IPA haven't had too much other stuff from them. though.
Personally, I love my Colorado beer Great Divide Left Hand New Belgium Odell Ft Collins Breckenridge Avery Bristol Boulder Beer West Flanders Locally, I probably like what Karbach is doing the best. St. Arnold is ok and I haven't been real impressed by the little I've had from Southern Star.
Green Flash make a lot of good, hoppy beers. Their Imperial IPA is great. Lagunitas also makes quite a few very good beers. Their IPA, Little Sumpin, Pale Ale, and Hop Stoopid are all great when fresh. I don't know how many breweries or brewpubs there are in Houston any more, but getting beer from the source and on draft dramatically increases your chances of getting good beer.
The only location I know for sure that carries it in Houston is Spec's on Smith St. Good luck on your new adventure. It's a fantastic ride...
I strongly recmonned eveyrthing and anything Boullevard Brewary from Kansas city, MO makes. Smokestack series puts st arnolds to shame
Terrapin, River Horse, Dogfish Head, Weyerbacher, and Stone are my favorite Craft brands. All delicious.
I like most of the California/West Coast breweries. Stone Brewing(their IPA is my favorite beer period. If you like bitter and hops GET IT.) Arrogant b*stard is their dark ale and it's a work of art (but also really hoppy and bitter). Sierra Nevada (I know you said you like dark so try their stout. Really good.) Lagunitas - Everything. Pyramid - Everything. For an import to try, I'd go with Spaten Optimator or Paulaner Salvator is glorious.
