Jon, from the Brewsite, predicted at the beginning of this year that 2008 would be the Year of the Beer Blog. He may be onto something. Charlie Papazian just started his own beer blog, the Beer Examiner; named not so much for what he hopes to write about, but because it’s hosted on the Examiner chain of newspapers website (with print editions in 3 cities and local news online in 57 cities). Papazian, of course, founded what is now the Brewers Association way back in 1978, and has naturally been paying closer attention to the brewing industry far longer than most of us. So it should certainly prove illuminating to follow along with his near-daily “examinations” of what’s going on in the beer world. Charlie’s perspectives are always worth hearing, and I was pleased I got a chance to sit and chat with him, and a few others, during one of the trade show buffet lunches last week. I must confess I was initially surprised that his new blog wasn’t associated with the BA, but he should be able to reach a much wider audience this way so I think it does make sense. Plus he can write his own personal opinions without having to worry about speaking for the Brewers Association.

Welcome to the blogosphere, Charlie. We’re glad to have you with us.