A holiday trip to Aspen introduced me to Aspen Brewing Company, a craft brewery opened last March that ever since has turned out seven impressive brews, including an unfiltered wheat, brown and red ales, and an IPA. The beer--brewed under the watchful eyes of CU grads Duncan Clauss and Brad Veltman--can be found at 10 valley restaurants such as the J-Bar and Double Dog Pub, but an even better way to sip is to visit the brewery itself. There you can take a tour, visit the tasting room, talk shop with Clauss and Veltman, and go home with a growler of your favorite suds. Bonus: Check the website for recipes and for tips on pairing beer with food. 557 N. Mill St., Aspen, 970-920-2739