Bow and Arrow




 

In exploring the craft beer scene of Albuquerque it’s always a foregone conclusion that certain breweries will stand out more than others. Those breweries that not only serve amazing beer, but also have a unique backstory, a beautiful tap room, or an expansive patio. But what are the odds that one brewery would have all of that, and be in the heart of the duke city of all places? Well with a Native American owner, award winning brewer, and crafting beers using indigenous ingredients it is no wonder why Bow and Arrow is such a great brewery.

I had first tried Bow and Arrow when I first moved here, and instantly knew this was a tap room I had to visit. I’m glad I did not wait long because now I am already planning on my next visit. When I first pulled up, I was shocked how large this space was. The large warehouse with some modern architecture with the massive outdoor patio made this an impressive sight. Then I walked in and was equally impressed by how spacious, and beautiful the tap room was. The most impressive part was the wooden barback with the landscape picture above the tap handles. 

Once I stopped looking around, I remembered that I was there also to try the beers, and I was not disappointed. The first beer I ever tried from Bow and Arrow was Denim Tux, and it has since become a regular in my fridge. The pilsner is crisp, refreshing, and slightly hoppy. But the blue corn adds a unique body, and depth of flavor that I hadn’t had before. But there are so many other great lagers and ales on tap I was excited to branch out and try more. 

Any of the hazy IPAs they have on tap are always going to be a solid choice. The flagship Scenic West is the flagship for a reason. It is very juicy, refreshing, and has just the right amount of hop bite. Also worth trying is the collaboration they are doing called Native Lands. This is one of the best hazy IPAs I have had, it is full of fruit flavor, smooth, and just all-around refreshing. For more malty beers when they have it on tap the proper imperial stouts are a must try. I prefer the pecan pie version during the holidays. While there are more I would love to recommend the tap list is ever changing, but there has not been a lager or ale that I haven’t enjoyed. 

With the craft beer scene not only in New Mexico, but around the country thriving finding a genuinely good brewery can be a challenge. To find a brewery serving top notch beer, with great service, and ample space to accommodate crowds Bow and Arrow is one of those rare examples of a good brewery. This is one I will visit time and time again, and know I will not leave disappointed. While it can be a decent drive to get to, I know it will always be worth it.

For photos of my adventures follow me on Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me using #thenmtx

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