Dispatches From the Front: Presidente

Editor's Note: While this blog is in theory about sampling samplers at local breweries, it is actually more about travel, and the beer we find therein.  There are places that instead of many local brewers, have one beer that embodies the region and culture so fully you need nothing more.  It is a part of the place.  "Dispatches From the Front" posts will be set aside for just such occasions. 

There is nothing better than a cold beer, except a cold beer on a hot day.  There is nothing better than a cold beer on a hot day, except a cold beer, in the morning, on a hot beach.  This is such a day, and in The Dominican Republic, Presidente is such a beer.

We are on the island for a wedding (vacation).  And like so many other places, there is a beer that is THE beer.  If you go to a bar or a restaurant or a roadside stand and ask for a cold beer, Presidente is what you get.  And there are reasons.  Sure, it's made locally and cheap and available.  But more than that, like beers on every warm island, it is made for a hot day.  Somewhere between a fine Pilsner and a cheap American Lager, it holds the cold and cools the body.  It is perfectly suited to be run across a sunburned brow, cracked open, and swilled poolside.

Bubbly, refreshing.  Breakfast, lunch, dinner.  Si, por favor.  But, be warned... these beers should not be ordered in the states.  Want a Presidente?  Go to DR.  Want a Red Stripe?  Go to Jamaica.

Michele is sleeping... I think I'll have a beer...