I was born in 1995 born and raised in Albany and still live here. I didn't know much about the history of Albany in relation to beer, but after doing a lot of reading, finding books entirely on beer up here, I'm just amazed and pleased and saddened all at the same time. I'm amazed that this city contributed as much as it did to the beer scene from the first settlers of the country until just 26 years or so ago. I'm also pleased to know this city mattered to the world as it did. But I'm sad that it all went away. When I'm going around the city, because of all my reading, I know what buildings and parking lots are standing in the footprints of old breweries and maltsters. I do like this article, and I know that this article addresses the history and not the present, but the beer advocate folks should know that the beer, cider and distillery scene is coming back and it feels great to be here for it. There are great beers being brewed by great people. A good amount of breweries opened up just this year. From the Catskills to the Adirondacks, from Albany, Schenectady and Troy to Saratoga, breweries all along the Mohawk and the Hudson, you'll even find a handful of breweries in just the middle of nowhere. They serve great beer and some serve great food and if they don't serve, the nearby food is good or there's a food truck outside. There are also nice bars serving nice beer and food as well. Yes, when you think of New York, I know you think of New York City, Long Island, Buffalo, Rochester, and the only thing about Albany you heard of is UAlbany, but there is a good scene in beer up here and I love being a part of it. If you're ever traveling through, take some time to visit the breweries. It will be well worth it.

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