Written by Travis E. Poling and Paul W. Hightower

In the wake of the craft beer revolution, beer has overtaken wine as Americans’ drink of choice according to a recent Gallup poll, putting a well-established host of Texas breweries right where they would like to be—in demand.

So how—and where—can the aspiring beer nerd sample some of the finest Texas brews? “Beer Across Texas: A Guide to the Brews and Brewmasters of the Lone Star State” guides enthusiasts to nearly 3 dozen breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs throughout the Lone Star State, from El Paso to Houston, from Lubbock to South Padre Island.

Co-authors Travis E. Poling and Paul W. Hightower brought their own individual expertise to the guide—and didn’t mind conducing the liquid research required to go to print.  Poling is a long-time Texas journalist and business writer whose “Brew Notes” column appeared in the San Antonio Express-News and is a frequent talk radio guest and beer presenter. Hightower, a Fort Worth-based technical writer, is a home brewer and a taster certified through the Beer Judge Certification Program.

In “Beer Across Texas,” you’ll meet brewers, discover how they’ve succeeded, learn about their beers and more about the brewing culture that inspires their craft. You will learn the characteristics and distinctive tastes of the myriad of styles of lagers and ales. For those interested in taking a beer tour, breweries are grouped by region—North, East, Central, South and West Texas. For the individual who wants to just “stop in” for a pint in their hometown, breweries and pubs are also grouped by city.

San Antonio, Boerne and New Braunfels each make a contribution to the book.  In Boerne, patrons can visit the Dodging Duck Brewhaus and Restaurant, which was started in 2002 by Keith Moore, and offers “quacky” beers along with authentic German food.  A few of Moore’s brews have been awarded medals at the World Beer Cup. New Braunfels boasts the Faust Brewing Company, which is housed in the historic Faust Hotel and is once again offering formidable brews. San Antonio has 2 breweries of its own.  Come try the “bold barely wine” known as the King William Ale, a favorite in San Antonio. The new Freetail Brewing Co. that is named for the freetail bats of South Texas brings the Alamo-city exciting brews from brewer Jason Davis, whose credentials include working with legendary Texas brewmasters.

“Beer Across Texas” makes it easy to find a cold brew wherever one might find themselves in the great state of Texas. For more information, visit BeerAcrossTexas.com.