Good beer has never been easier to get. After decades of fairly pedestrian offerings from the standard domestic and foreign suppliers, the speciality brew market has exploded in recent years. Once the backbone of small shops, microbrews or other offbeat beers are now widely available in grocers such as Harris-Teeter and Lowes Foods.

It’s been a welcome change and then some, especially for those of us who no longer take home a 12-pack and simply pound one after another. I’m a major proponent of drinking less — far less — and enjoying it far more.

That’s why the cost of a six of Red Oak, brewed in Whitsett doesn’t strike me as high. Obviously when compared to Budweiser, though, it is. But because it will last awhile I don’t mind paying a few bucks more for something that has a taste I enjoy. Better yet, I like to find something new that I haven’t tried before.

That brings me to the Company Shops Market Co-Op on Front Street in downtown Burlington. Most with an abiding interest in quality food — and quality local food — are well aware of what advantages the co-op offers. It’s a huge godsend downtown where lunch options are limited. Hey, I love Zack’s and Boston Sandwich Shop — but every day at either one and it’s a recipe for a future appointment with a cardiologist. The co-op offers a few healthier options. There’s something for vegetarians there, too.

One of my favorite things about the co-op is the beer section. It’s a wide and interesting selection of regional and national brews that cater to nearly every imaginable taste. They stock dozens of beers there I haven’t tried yet.  But I’m getting there.

At the moment I’m sampling a selection of regional beers offered in 64-ounce returnable jugs known as “growlers.” Every Friday night I buy one to take home for the weekend. On Monday, I return the bottle and get my $4 deposit back. So far I’ve tried samples from Carolina Brewery in Pittsboro (the amber ale and lager); Fullsteam in Durham (Southern lager, IPA and Carver –the latter brewed with sweet potatoes; and Green Man from Asheville (Wheat ale).

I’ve loved elements of all three craft brewmakers. My favorite so far, though, is the Green Man, which is also a little more expensive. I’ll be saving that for special occasions.

I’ll try to write about my journey through the local beer world over the next few months. Feel free to post your favorites in the comments section.

Cheers.

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