Ex Novo

 



One of the things I learned about breweries while living in Denver is that they can be anywhere, and usually the best ones are off the beaten path. Thankfully the same is true in New Mexico and I discovered that early on in my residency here. This is no truer than in the small town of Corrales where amongst a lot of farms lies an awesome brewery with a beautiful space, a wide variety of beer, and some great food truck options. Originally from Portland, but now with a location in the founder’s home town, Ex Novo is a great brewery with a great mission to give back to the community. So naturally it’s a must visit. 

When you first drive to this brewery the first thing to do is pay attention, because it is easy to miss in the beauty of this town. But once you park it is nothing short of amazing how spacious this brewery is. The tasting room is in an old gas station with some seating on the inside. But the patio is spacious with plants everywhere that creates a relaxing environment. Across the parking lot is a separate beer garden that is also very spacious with chairs everywhere to enjoy the lovely New Mexico weather, enjoy the fresh air, and they even have heaters for those wanting to enjoy the outdoors on a cooler day. 

But the great space is only half the reason to check out Ex Novo, there is a full list of great beers and cocktails to enjoy as well. For the lighter beer drinkers there are three options that will not disappoint. The Most Interesting Lager in the World is a refreshing Mexican style lager that is light, crisp, and refreshing. For those wanting a little more hop bite the award winning Perle Haggard pilsner is just as light, crisp, and refreshing but with a nice hop bite that creates a great sip. Last is the Stay Goalden golden ale made for the New Mexico United soccer team, this ale is light, refreshing, and perfect to drink year-round. 

For those IPA and dark beer lovers there is a wide variety of rotating seasonal offerings including doppelbocks, hazy and west coast IPAs, and even English beers. Really, anytime you come here there is going to be something new perfect for the season. Rich Imperial stouts and barleywines are there for the cold months, while crisp lagers are there in the springtime. Not a beer fan? The beergarita is a can’t miss with a blend of the Most Interesting lager, a locally made agave spirit, and lime juice. It is refreshing and light. Also available is a Moscow Mule served in a traditional copper mug. 

Since I moved down here Ex Novo has been one of my favorite places to visit. Not only is it one of my favorite tap room environments, but the beer never disappoints. As an added bonus I find myself really enjoying the drive through Corrales. This is a beautiful small town full of great scenery that is just very relaxing. I look forward to making this drive over the course of the year so I can enjoy its beauty as the seasons progress, and I know at the end of the drive a delicious pint is waiting for me. This is one of those situations that reminds me of why I moved down here. For the relaxing small-town vibe that you just don’t get everywhere. 

To follow my adventures find me on Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me using #thenmtx
If you want to support my adventures and see exclusive content check me out at www.patreon.com/thenmtx


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