Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village is a cool, new addition to our craft-brew scene and one of the bearers of the much-loved Tahoe tradition of being dog friendly: “Well-behaved dogs with attentive owners are welcome.” That’s right, whether inside or out, owners can bring their best furry friends here while enjoying a pint of pleasure, good company and diverse entertainment.
Courtesy Alibi Ale Works
An unassuming building and entry reveal the industrial-chic main room, a cozy lounge that is as hip as any San Fran spot, accessible working brewery full of tanks and barrels, as well as a beautiful back yard with grass, large granite rocks, tables and, of course, tall pines.
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“Patrons can choose from approximately 20 creations
on the multi-brew menu that changes often:
porters, saisons, pale ales and even rare
and funky, oak-fermented sours.”
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Entertainment includes trivia, open mic, pop-up sushi, music and a myriad of fun themes on different nights of the week. For food, there is usually a food truck parked out front or bring your own to enjoy with the beverages. By the way, the local favorite T’s Mesquite Rotisserie is around the corner with counter-served Mexican food that goes great with beer.
A company that calls itself Ale Works had better rock — and this one does. Every batch starts with the best water on earth all the way from the depths of Lago Tahoe. Patrons can choose from approximately 20 creations on the multi-brew menu that changes often: porters, saisons, pale ales and even rare and funky, oak-fermented sours. All palates will be satisfied and all thirsts slaked.
If you can’t make up your mind, order a sampler of 4-ouncers. On a recent visit I watched ace beer barista Ryan Rivers send out a tray of a dozen tasters to a table of aficionados — and much joy followed. A personal current favorite is the Nitro Contradiction, a golden stout that combines rich flavors and freshness in a contradictory, light-golden package. Yum.
As owners and founders Kevin Drake and Rich Romo say, “Our goal is to keep your taste buds intrigued with diverse and interesting flavors. We strive to maintain a beer lineup that is balanced between traditional European styles; super-fresh, hop-forward American beers; and innovative one-offs that will expand your beer horizons.” Mission accomplished.
Whether you are a local or visitor to the Big Blue region, this indoor-outdoor brewpub has the mountain, hipster vibe to become everyone’s favorite.
Alibi Ale Works is located at 204 East Enterprise St. For more information, call (775) 298-7001 or visit alibialeworks.com.
Lou Phillips is a Level 3 Advanced Sommelier and his consulting business wineprowest.com assists in the selling, buying and managing wine collections. He may be reached at (775) 544-3435 or lou@wineprowest.com. Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com for more wine columns.
