Craft beers are popular and for good reason. The microbrew movement has resonated with many who enjoy a variety of flavor in ales and lagers. Rare beers, rotating taps, and small production of unique flavors give beer lovers more choice. The depth of flavor sets craft beers apart from traditional commercial beers. Opportunity abounds in Las Cruces with several local breweries.
De La Vega's Pecan Grill and Brewery
De La Vega's Pecan Grill and Brewery offers twelve specially brewed craft beers. Brew master, Rich Weber, has created a list of craft brews that speak to a variety of pallets. De La Vega's offers beer flights so the customer can find their favorite without a lot of trial and error.
Sample German-style pilsners, specialties like Las Cruces Lager, Aggie Amber Ale and Green Chile Ale. These beers are brewed using only the finest hops, yeast and barley, ranging from smooth, malty lagers to hoppy IPA’s, and chocolaty stouts, which are so unique! A pecan flavored beer should come as no surprise and is exceptional.
High Desert Brewing Company
High Desert Brewing Company is another locally owned pub that specializes in craft beers. Their collection includes a variety of 27 hand-crafted ales and lagers produced on site, offering 10 on tap daily. To ensure that each beer is served at the peak of freshness the Brew Crew at High Desert Brewing makes small batches of about 200 gallons each. Wheat Ale, Bohemian Pilsner, Barley Wine and Imperial Stout are just a few of the varieties offered. Take a half- gallon of your choice “to-go”! Yes, another cool thing about this microbrewery is that you can take your favorite ale or lager home with you! Pub fare served daily includes nachos, fried veggies, grilled sandwiches, quesadillas and burgers and go well with almost any selection.
This fun place is tucked away in a neighborhood just off of Valley Drive. 1201 W. Hadley, Las Cruces, NM 575-525-6752. http://www.highdesertbrewingco.com
(Kelley Cleary Coffeen, 300 Best Taco Recipes, Robert Rose Publishing, 2011).
This cool cocktail takes a beer with a twist of lime to the next level (pronounced mee-chilada). Adding fresh citrus juices to your favorite beer creates a light and refreshing cocktail. I stick with lime for a traditional taste or blend with fresh squeezed orange juice for a sweeter flavored beer cocktail.
Collins glass Cracked ice 1⁄4 cup freshly squeezed lime or orange juice 1 bottle (12 oz) Mexican beer (see Tip) 1 or 2 lime or orange slices
1.Fill glass half full with cracked ice. Add lime juice. Top with beer. Garnish with floating lime slices and serve. Add remaining beer to the glass as needed.
Tip: There are a variety of Mexican beers on the market, such as Corona, Pacifico, Tecate and Dos Equis just to name a few. They all vary in taste so try them and find your favorites.
Variations: A salted rim adds additional flavor to this cocktail. Rub rim of glass with 1 lime wedge and dust with salt. Shake off any excess salt. Follow Step 1.