In case you were not aware, today is the beginning of the 19th annual American Craft Beer Week, which runs from May 13 through May 19. I actually started photo-documenting my American Craft Beer Week adventures in 2012 when it was the 7th annual American Craft Beer Week (ACBW7). My girlfriend at the time had recently changed the medications she was using and was now allowed to drink beer, so we took advantage of it.

We spent each day trying to find award winning beers, starting our journey at Naja’s Place. I think this is when Tanya discovered she was into Imperial stouts, especially of the barrel-aged persuasion.

Day two was our first introduction to Select Beer Store where they were having a tap takeover featuring El Segundo Brewing, Monkish, Strand Brewing and Smog City, and I am pretty sure this is when I first met Bernie Wire.

Day three found us returning to 1321 Downtown Taproom in Torrance and a first visit to Hudson House in Redondo Beach.

Day four was our introduction to Brewco in Manhattan Beach, and Simmzy’s. I was also introduced to Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA and a new an upcoming brewery, Brouwerij West.

Day five of the 7th annual American Craft Beer Week was a Friday, which made it possible for us to visit all three South Bay craft breweries; Monkish Brewing, El Segundo Brewing Company and Strand Brewing Company. It’s hard to believe, but back then, that is all the South Bay had to offer. In fact, on that day El Segundo Brewing only had White Dog IPA, Blue House Pale Ale and the Hyperion’s Stout on tap on our first visit. The South Bay brewery scene was definitely in its infancy.

Day six found us at two brewpubs; The Rockefeller in Hermosa Beach and Abigaile, with The Brewery at Abigaile. This is where and when I first met HopSaint’s head brewer, Brian Brewer. That ended up making the visit worth its weight in gold.

Our 7th annual American Craft Beer Week ended in beautiful downtown San Pedro, at San Pedro Brewing Company.

I have to say that reading these article from 12 years ago shows me a few things, primarily that apparently most of my craft beer experience had been at BJ’s; I like to think my craft beer knowledge has improved a little over the last twelve years.

Anyway, we all had to start somewhere, so don’t hesitate; jump on in. Enjoy this 19th Annual American Craft Beer Week. Cheers!