Happy's Wine and Spirit's Has it All

My first encounter with the name Happy's Wine and Spirits was a "coming soon" sign with their name on it located on University Ave in Cedar Falls. If I remember correctly I was driving at the time which means I saw their sign last spring. (The story of why I'm not driving now might be presented in a future blog post.) I remember thinking it was interesting that they were opening just across the parking lot from HyVee Wine and Spirits. Though as a business major I know that's a good tactic. Being close to your competitor allows you both to benefit from the increased customer traffic that comes to the area for their weekend drinks.

This fall I finally traveled past Happy's and saw they were open for business. If I had my own car I probably would have stopped in earlier this fall to check it out. It wasn't until a couple of weeks ago that the next impression I received was a tweet Happy's posted about the Riding the Lion ale from Clown Shoes. I remember seeing the picture of that beer and reading the description and wanting it so badly. Unfortunately it wasn't until two weeks later that I finally procured a ride from a friend to take me out there to buy this outstanding looking beer. I fancy myself as an entertainer and artist and instantly was drawn to the brand name Clown Shoes and the fantastic bottle art that wrapped around it. The description of Riding the Lion goes as such;

Descended from a notorious clan of Scottish lore, head brewer Dan Lipke Channeled the Tartan tapestry encoded in his DNA to create a formidable Wee Heavy. The beer has been aged one hundred percent in fresh bourbon barrels. Ask yourself, "Who needs a reason to ride the lion?"   

A wonderful sounding beer if you ask me. I can't review the flavor yet because I'm waiting for the right moment to savor such a beauty. The first thing that struck me as I walked into Happy's Wine and Spirits was the vast and eclectic selection of drinks. They had the best selection of craft beer I've yet seen in Cedar Falls (sorry HyVee). Plus much more besides, though I didn't get the chance to wander the entire store so I can't be too specific as to their wares. You'll just have to visit and see for yourself.

For my first visit I scooped up a 6 pack of Stone Pale Ale, Ride the Lion, and Prairie's Pirate Bomb. The Pirate Bomb, at 14% alcohol by volume, I'm expecting to pack quite the punch. A cannon blast in a bottle. The Stone Pale Ale is on the smoother more conservative side of the IPA flavor spectrum but with a solid hoppy note. Though the craft beers ran a premium price, I can't say I've been much happier as far as purchasing decisions. If you're looking to buy a great tasting beer to enjoy back at home, I think Happy's Wine and Spirits will have what you're looking for.