I really like jazz. I bring up jazz because I've always loved one thing in particular about it...the way groups shout out their "personnel." If you are part of a good jazz band (even a bad one)...odds are you'll be called out by name during a show to acknowledge your contribution to the ensemble. When they do, it's time for your solo. Everyone gets their shine. But with that comes responsibility...you have to show and prove--you know, be able to keep your seat. You can't f--- it up. One bad note and it's a wrap. Craft beer is a bit like jazz. It takes a solid squad to produce great beer. No slouches. Everyone has to play a position...and play it well. You have to do your part; otherwise, things can go to sh-t very quickly. Improvisation is encouraged, but you better nail it. Everyone's watching and waiting to see what you've got.
So for this post, I wanted to give some shine to Alex "Rhino" Rebollo...a guy who has contributed his everything in helping build a true LA beer culture---one we can be proud of. I credit him for being an integral part of sparking this whole pedo. Like in jazz, you gotta give props where props are due. Have you heard of this guy called Rhino? If not, then you're probably not deep in this beer game. Let me explain.
About 4 years ago, I was trying to bring a craft beer from Tijuana called Insurgente into the LA market. You may be familiar with these guys now after their collaboration with Stone and Chris Banker for "Xocoveza." But back then, they were one of the few Mexican craft beers really killing it at beer competitions around Mexico...and even getting some attention in San Diego. Man, I was so eager to get them into LA. Only issue, I kept hitting bumps in the road. I was so ready top throw in the towel.
But I kept hearing the name "Rhino." Everyone I spoke to told me I had to meet this guy. I heard he was from East Los (like me), knew his stuff, and had been cool with Greg from Stone from Day 1. He was even around when Greg was trying to slang a brew that would later be known as "Arrogant Bastard" back when LA was not really ready for it. Dude also wrote for the Beers In Paradise guys, was a fixture in brew circles, and would most likely be someone who'd be able to help me--or at least point me in the right direction. Funny, he started to sound like a "Godfather" figure or something. I was told you were not legit unless this guy said you were. Long story short, the Insurgente thing fell through, which sucks, but I gained a good friend nonetheless. Word on the street is he is now part of REV Brewing out of Covina...a new brewery that has been gaining a gang of buzz. I'm really looking forward to checking them out when they open to the public on Friday, December 5-- AKA Today. Hope to see you there.