Culver Beer Co., Carlsbad

<See my 4/16/19 Coast News column about Culver here.>

I felt at home as soon as I walked in the door. The setting at Culver Beer Co. is relaxed. I got a warm welcome from both of the people behind the bar (one of whom turned out to be one of the brewer-owners).

It was less crowded at Culver than at Burgeon, which I had just left. It was possible to get a comfortable seat, talk a bit about the brewery, and chat with other patrons at the bar.

They were pouring 16 beers and a craft soda. The flights of four 4oz pours come in a metal tray that includes a slot for a business card that describes each beer–a nice touch, and something I haven’t seen before.

Culver Irish Red (Red Irish Ale, 5.1% ABV). Nicely dark and roasty. Toffee, sweet, burnt finish.  3.5

Dirty Bird (Red Irish Ale on nitro with housemade amaretto, 5.1% ABV). The cherry makes a nice addition. I’m not sure which version I like better. 3.5/5

Daily Routine (American Stout, 5.8% ABV). Truth in naming: this could easily become a daily routine. It is a very nice stout: deep, roasty, and drinkable.  4/5

Night Cap (Milk Stout, 6.2% ABV). The nitro and lactose make for a smooth and soft mouthfeel. The vanilla rounds it out perfectly.  4/5

There’s plenty of parking, so you should have no trouble finding a spot. For some reason I didn’t see the entrance right away: look for the four metal lights hanging off the side of the building.

www.culverbeer.com     2719 Loker Ave W, Carlsbad, CA 92010