Since I started drinking in 2011, our culture has been on a beverage journey—from the overwhelming hegemony of craft beer, to the rise of distinctly crushable seltzers, to the nuance of wine, the complexity of cocktails, and the relief of mocktails. 

As the times have changed, so have our tastes. But it’s not so much a straight line as it is a cursive signature, looping back to old favorites before moving on to something brand new. Which is to say: I’m really enjoying IPAs again, lately.

But I’m also enjoying the adventure of discovering new cocktails with ingredients I’ve never heard of, and delving into “natural” wines that take the drink to a new level of care. And I’m not the only one, which is why this issue covers it all. 

You’ll find our brewery guide, because not only is beer very much still a thing, but breweries (and cideries) have remained bastions of community all around West Michigan. We also take a look at all the fantastic cocktail lounges we have across the region, some of which are doing interesting things with wine as well. And if you’re in your sober era? Don’t worry, just about every brewery and lounge in town has delicious non-alcoholic options at this point too.

Of course, it’s October, so you’ll also find our guide to haunted houses across the region. My personal favorite is Witches of New Salem. The blend of meticulously crafted little haunted houses, dark paths through the woods and purposefully disorienting tunnels keeps me on edge the whole visit—just the way I like it.

If you’re not a fan of scares, that’s okay, there’s a wealth of orchards around town offering apple picking, pumpkin patches, refreshing cider, fresh donuts and hay rides. Autumn has plenty to enjoy, and it only lasts so long, so make sure to get out and enjoy every second!

'Til next time,

Josh Veal, Managing Editor