If you happen to encounter supporters of the same-sex marriage referendum that's on the November ballot, there's a nice bridal ale on tap at Run of the Mill in Saco. Or toast their efforts with Sierra Nevada's Celebration Ale. As for opponents of gay nuptials, there doesn't seem to be any Prude Beer left on the shelves. Just as well, since most of those Christian Civic League types are teetotalers.
Finally, there's a chance that in your summer travels, you'll run into Republican Governor Paul LePage. If so, please refrain from such obvious — and insulting — choices as Weyerbacher's Blithering Idiot Barley Wine, Leinenkugel's Big Butt Doppelbock, or Huyghe Brewery's Delirium Tremens. All you'll do is incite LePage into one of his classic rants. Entertaining, of course, but hardly productive.
Instead, offer the governor a beer that evokes New Hampshire, a state he's often praised for its low taxes and robust employment picture. Then, surprise him by revealing that Hampshire Special Ale is actually made right here in Maine by the D.L. Geary Brewing Co.
Finally, explain that regardless of the Granite State's prosperous economy, its local brews are mostly unmemorable. You might even mention that — to employ one of LePage's favorite phrases — they're "looked down upon."
You could also suggest the governor do something about Maine's ridiculous liquor prices. If you get a positive response, email me at aldiamon@herniahill.net.
