xx, 251 pp. A guide to 54 regional breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs in New York. "Bryson, who covered the breweries of another mid-Atlantic state in his previous book, Pennsylvania Breweries, focuses here on beermaking in the Empire State. His helpful and entertaining guide divides the state into seven geographical regions, such as "Suburbia by the Sea: Long Island," "The Big Hop: New York City," and "Touched by a Glacier: The Finger Lakes." His entries are helpful and exhaustive. For F.X. Matt's Brewing Company in Utica, for instance, he offers a three-page history; a selection of beers brewed; a list of beer recommendations; a map and directions; and a researched list of area attractions and local restaurants ("check out the odd but rewarding combo of Polish food and top-flight live jazz and blues at Tiny's Grill"). Bryson (who writes for Ale Street News and Malt Advocate), is an enthusiast, and his passion, whether for microbreweries or "the big guys," is contagious."
