When it comes to talking about beer I’m pretty sure Homer Simpson said it best, “Mmmm…Beer.” And while I appreciate many fine brews, I can honestly say there are only a few that I’ll go to extraordinary lengths to acquire. Most of those can be found on the east coast and one in Fort Collins, Colorado. However, that list just gained a new addition. While on a quick stop for some last-minute camping supplies in Buffalo, Wyoming Jake and I noticed a newly-redone store front with this logo on the door.
Fortunately our timeline was well, not really a timeline at all, so stopping in for a taster was a given. After sampling many breweries throughout the Rocky Mountains I’ve had a lot of good local craft brews but few of their beers have really stood out in my mind. I wasn’t sure what to expect from Clear Creek Brewing Company having heard no reviews or even that they existed. Our sampler arrived with seven brews; the first couple were tasty and I definitely would take a growler of the Tackle Box Wheat home but when we got to the Fire Hole, a chili style porter, holy wow! This beer was awesome! This was a beer I would happily drive the four hours from my doorstep back to Buffalo for another round. And apparently the people agree because at the 2013 Laramie Brew Fest it took 1st Place in the Experimental Beer Category.
What a great experiment it is! The rich chocolatey porter notes dance around on your tongue before gracefully giving way to the slightly spicy and bold finish. The tingle at the end is almost a surprise when it finally hits but is a perfect finish that makes you want another drink.
If the tingly surprise of the Fire Hole Porter isn’t enough to convince you stop by, the ambience and unique story of this tiny Wyoming town brewery should. Started three Wyoming locals who graduated college, left the state and found themselves back home they’ve brought the best of the outside back home and blended it with a down-home Wyoming feel. After being drawn together by their love of brewing, these guys turned to Kickstarter (a nearly unheard of force in the state at that time!) to fund their venture. Evidence of their humble start is present throughout the brewery. From the fermenters, which were named by their donors, to the tables and patios this place has a very laid-back, welcoming feel.
If you ever find yourself near Buffalo, Wyoming I’d highly recommend making your way into the Clear Creek Brewing Company. Or better yet, make a special trip to visit these guys, I promise you won’t be disappointed! So pull up a barstool and yes, I’d recommend trying the Fire Hole Porter.