What trip to Asheville would be complete without a trip to the hallowed grounds of Bruisin’ Ales? This establishment was ranked third in RateBeer’s best beer retailers in 2009. In the world. That’s right, the entire world, my friend.

Anyway, it’s most certainly earned its title, and my business. Run by Jason and Julie Atallah, Bruisin’ Ales is a beer lover’s dream. I may preaching to the converted here, but for those who aren’t familiar with this place, you’re in for a real treat. It’s rare that I get that kid-in-a-candy-store feeling these days, but visiting their shop put a smile on my face and spring in my step. Not to mention a dent in my wallet. The prices are reasonable, but it’s hard to limit yourself to a specific amount of bottles because you’ll always find one more thing that grabs your interest, begging to be taken back to your nice, cozy beer cellar.

What can I say? I’m a sucker for beer that needs a good home.

Being an out-of-stater, I must say I’m ashamed that Virginia has not kept pace with our immediate neighbors to the south. I hate to belittle my own fair Commonwealth, and mean no disrespect to our fine watering holes and industry folk. But these guys just popped the cap on high alcohol beers, what, five years ago? And now they’ve gone buck wild with beer retailers, breweries churning out crazy amounts of delicious beer (many practically right next door to each other), and people still can’t get enough.

Whatever the reason, it’s always delightful to see such dedication and support for well-crafted beer. And a store like Bruisin’ Ales is one of many places keeping the reality of better beer alive.