Drake’s recently opened their tasting room doors in the East Bay-in San Leandro. They have 24 taps, many barrel-aged beers and decently priced kegs to go. My friend Zoe, Dave and I went a few months back for the first time, as well as last weekend where we picked up a keg- which we already tapped out. The location is literally behind a strip mall that can make it a bit difficult getting to, maneuvering through all the Walmart bound clientele, but as soon as you round the corner- you would never know it was there.

We tried: Sauer Brauer- Sour Cuvee aged in Chardonnay barrels. 8% abv. This pours a deep amber resin. It smells like sour oak, funk and slight berries. It tastes like sour oak, berries, slight acetote, wood and sour funk. Only a touch of acetote but pretty good considering.

Batch 3000. Black Pale Ale. 5.5%. This pours a roasted black. It smells like bitter hops, mango, pine and a touch of malt. It tastes pretty hoppy with a touch of roasted espresso. Pretty tasty.

Drew Berrimore- brandy barrel aged Imperial Stout. 8.75% abv. This pours a dark chocolate. It smells like sour funk, sweet and brandy. It tastes like malt, caramel, a touch tart, apple and some sweet brandy.

The place is quite substantial and even has a few tables so that you can sit outside and enjoy the sunshine. Just remember to leave your kids and dogs at home because neither of them are allowed. Not a bad way to spend your weekend.