This weeks topic for Fermentation Friday "Where it all Began"

For me this is a very easy answer, Germany. I was never interested in beer before that trip, sure I had tried some at parties but no real interest. Before I went to Germany in 1992 my father said to me these words "Try Dunkleweizen." I did and was immediately hooked on the wheat beers of the Southern Landers. When I returned to the states German beer was unique if presented at all in my college town. Eventual I found Uptown Billiards and Homebrewing. Without them, I would not be the beer geek I am today.

Uptown introduced me to a wide spectrum of beer, when it first opened it only served beer and wine, but it had one of the best selections North of Phoenix in the state. It has grown over the years to a 'Cheers' to the people of a Flagstaff where the regulars always know your name but it's much more than that. It's a home for friend's and a special place, stop in if you ever get the chance. I simply call it home.

Homebrewing is the other leg of this just as important. It gave me an understanding to the hard work and skill required to create great beer. Homebrewing has given me and understanding of the roles of malt, hops and most importantly perhaps yeast. It's given me a job of late and will always be a love, though if I could hire a team of robotic helpers to clean and keg beer for me, I don't think I'd have any complaints.

Germany then Uptown Billiards and Homebrewing a simple equation to make a beergeek, or this one to be sure.