The Queen of Beer Week

If Philly Beer Week had a queen, it would no doubt be Suzanne Woods. Sly Fox Brewing Company’s director of sales and general “beer lass” is also the founding president of In Pursuit of Ale (IPA), a women’s-only beer drinking group recently featured on the front page of msn.com. We caught up with Suzanne at the Sly Fox brewer meet-and-greet at Johnny Brenda’s on Tuesday to talk about her favorite subject, so listen up ladies (and gentlemen) and let her infinite wisdom guide you through the rest of Beer Week and beyond.

Lesson #1: Not sure what to put in your glass? First, take a look at what’s on your plate.

“A lot of women are intimidated by dark beers,” Suzanne says. But if you like coffee and chocolate she might suggest you try a stout. Likewise, the upcoming beer and food pairings at the White Dog Cafe, DiBruno, Fork, and The Belgian Café can help steer you toward your perfect beer based on your favorite meals.

Lesson #2: Find a knowledgeable bartender.

Reading an extensive beer list and have no idea what the difference is between a lager and a lambic? Ask the person behind the bar. You’re likely to get some great suggestions, and even a few samples. Even beer connoisseurs can benefit from learning about the newest brews on tap. Suzanne herself can help you navigate your options while pouring pints during her shifts at Jose Pistolas.

Lesson #3: Educate yourself!

Sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands. “I was self-taught,” Suzanne says. “I bought every book I could about beer.” When you’ve exhausted your local library, the next step is homebrewing. When Suzanne worked as a sales rep for Sam Adams, they required she learn how to make her own beers. Don't be intimated. Suzanne swears the hardest part is keeping things sanitized, which requires no previous brewing knowledge—only cleaning skills. For inspiration, visit any of the brewers sampling their products tonight, including the Philadelphia Brewing Company at Standard Tap, Troegs at McGillins, and Allagash at For Pete’s Sake.

Lesson #4: Drinking is always better with friends.

When Suzanne started IPA in 2006, she had no idea she’d make 300 new friends. “I just wanted to spend time with women talking about beer,” she says. This laid back group of women meets biweekly on Wednesdays, and Suzanne makes sure to include a new educational topic every time. But don’t worry, there’s also plenty of time to connect with your new friends over subjects other than beer.

Lesson #5: During the rest of the year, keep Beer Week in your heart.

Ladies get ready: IPA’s next meeting is in two weeks, with the owners of Bella Vista Beer Distributors opening their doors to the group after hours. Sorry, guys—IPA is sticking to their women-only status, but you can still join the Philly Beer Club. This coed group will also help you become a beer expert in no time.

Photo by the author