Remembrance of pints past

I spent the weekend in my Michigan hometown for what could be the last time in a long time, saying goodbye to some old friends.

Sionara, Centennial IPA , you rich yet plainspoken soul, not afraid to wear your hops on your sleeve.

Happy trails, Mad Hatter , you well-balanced (despite your name), rather floral fellow.

Adios, Dirty Bastard , you big, fruity, earthy Scotch buzzard of a beer.

Ta-ta, Two Hearted , you ridiculously tasty reminder of my fisherman cousin and fellow fan.

Hasta la vista, Huma Lupa Licious , my hop-heavy, more recent acquaintance, with your golden looks and deceptive strength.

It’s not that I grew up with any of them, having left the state well before the microbrew movement began. But they became constant companions on return visits, as Michigan’s craft beer scene blossomed.

And while there’s certainly no shortage of options back home, I’ll still miss our occasional reunions and all the memories they brought.

What about you? Are there beers you’ve learned to love in other parts of the country whose absence out here leaves you a little wistful? Click on the headline above this post and drop us a comment.