Thirsty Eye

 

One thing that I love about breweries is that no two are the same. Each one offers a unique variety of beers, has a buildout that is reflective of its owners, and has a different mission in what they want their business to be about. That is no truer than in the Historic Huning Highland neighborhood of Albuquerque where not only are they pouring high quality, unique beers, but they also have a rotating art gallery connected that features local artists that guests can walk around with their beer. Factor in a full schedule of live music and you have a brewery that also cares about the local artists in the community. So, when in the area make sure to stop by Thirsty Eye Brewing Company. 

Located along Broadway this is a very small, but comfortable taproom. Inside there are a few tables, seats at the bar, a stage for live music, and an enclosed patio featuring beautiful murals and picnic tables for larger groups and pets. The small brewhouse is divided only by a half wall, and also has bar stools there so guests can see exactly where their beer comes from. When I went the tap list was small, but still had a wide variety of styles including some darker and malt forward beers than I had seen at other breweries.

I opted for a flight so that I could sample multiple offerings, and they were all unique with great flavors that I have not had anywhere else in New Mexico. Citrus Buzz is a honey wheat that was very light, but had a great subtle sweetness and citrus flavor from the orange blossom honey. Odin’s Eye was the most unique beer I had that was a farmhouse ale with rye and juniper. It was very complex with a subtle spice from the rye, a hint of pine from the juniper, and a strong yeast flavor from the beer. Bruiser was a classic American Stout that was rich, and full of great roasted coffee flavor. However, my favorite was the Biscochitto Liquido. This brown ale was delicious on its own with a great malt flavor, and subtle chocolate flavor. But the addition of cinnamon and anise put this beer over the top with a great spice note and subtle licorice flavor. If you love this iconic cookie, then this beer will not disappoint.

Of course, the great beer is only half the reasons to check out Thirsty Eye. After you order your beer walk through the connecting door and check out a small, but amazing art gallery. Rotating monthly the artwork was absolutely beautiful and featured a wide variety of all sorts of mediums. There were paintings, sculptures, and my personal favorites were these vibrant tile artwork that represented different elements. Even better is that all the artwork featured is from New Mexico artists, and if you love something they are also for sale. 

Of all the breweries I have been to this has to be amongst the most unique and one I would visit again. The beers were all delicious, and as creative as the artwork also displayed. With the gallery rotating it makes it that much easier to want to visit as well. I would want to time my visit to when the gallery changes so it could also give me a chance to meet some of the artists as well. While off the beaten path in Albuquerque it is worth seeking out and trying. Beer lovers, art lovers, and music lovers will all enjoy Thirst Eye for its eclectic offerings, and great support of local artists. It’s businesses like this that support the community that makes craft beer so great. 

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