Oklahoma Beer Geeks Unite

Long known as a land of weak near-beer, it may seem strange that Oklahoma has a fervent underground of craft beer fanatics. On the surface, everyone just drinks macro-brewed, low-point grog out of aluminum bottles. But there are drinkers here who thirst for more than the readily available and mass-produced ales and lagers. These aficionados require new and interesting flavors, and will sometimes cross the country or spend hefty sums to experience an exceptional beer.

Craft brewing is still a new industry in Oklahoma, so the selections at bars and liquor stores can be lacking, and the small breweries that are most sought after don’t distribute far outside of their region, making them difficult (and pricey) to obtain. But Oklahomans with discriminating taste in beer will not be deterred by such challenges, and will seek out rare and obscure brews from around the country.

We’ve talked to some of the most discerning consumers of hops and malt in the metro to understand what drives their devotion to beer. Crack open a bottle of your favorite barrel-aged concoction, and find out what they have to say:

Cody Wilson

Where is the farthest you’ve traveled and the most you’ve ever spent for a beer?

I drove to the de Garde’s anniversary party out in Tillamook, Oregon, which is around a 4K drive there and back. It’s almost embarrassing saying this; I spent $400 on Toppling Goliath’s Assassin Stout.

You’re going to be trapped on a desert island and can only drink one beer for the rest of your life - what would it be?

I would need something to make me feel like the beer was hydrating, passion fruit. Avery Liliko’i Kepolo can do just that.

If you’re at a regular bar without a huge selection, what’s your go-to macrobrewed beer? Also, what is your everyday go-to craft beer?

My macro beer is and always will be a Yellow Belly (Coors Original, baby). The “everyday” drinker is forever changing. Currently in my fridge is Prairie-Vous Francais and Founders All Day.

Which styles of beer do you think are currently underrated or overrated?

I think my Quad-squad would agree with me on this, Quads are underrated.

What is your advice to somebody who is new to becoming a serious beer drinker?

Best advice, don’t take it too damn seriously.