Need Valentine's Day ideas? Think beer, says Rebecca Whyman

Valentine's Day is approaching, the day when people everywhere will be saying, "I love you" to that special someone.

But On The Coast beer columnist Rebecca Whyman wants people to consider saying "I love brew" instead by celebrating Valentine's Day with some beer-themed activities.

"This year, why not take advantage of the day falling on a weekend and celebrate your immense love of beer by, what else but, getting out there and drinking some beer!" Whyman suggested to On The Coast guest host Gloria Macarenko.

"You can join in on an existing tour, like one by Vancouver Brewery Tours or Wildside Vancouver, or you can make your own. East Van, Main Street and Port Moody all offer multiple tasting rooms within easy walking distance of each other."

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Whyman says that making your own tour offers flexibility, but going with a tour company offers transportation between breweries and a guaranteed spot at each brewery, plus behind-the-scenes tours and the chance to meet new friends.

Or, why not get the gang together at someone's house and do a bottle share?

"Everyone brings a bottle or three to share.You can do food pairingsor all choose beers of a particular style to compare and contrast," she said. "A bottle share is a great opportunity to try a beer style you've never tried beforebecause you're sharing the bottle between several people.There's no big commitment."

Here are Whyman's beer picks for this week:

Powell Street Brewing's Le Vagabond

"A biere de garde or French saison, this little beauty features notes of strawberry, citrus and spice, finishing dry with the unique character of French saison yeast and is only available at the tasting room."

Brassneck Brewing's Hibiscus Wit

"Because it's pink! And because it is a tasty little number!This Belgian wheat ale with hibiscus is available at the tasting room."

R&B's Red IPA

"7 per centand 70 IBUs with notes of mango, pineapple and passionfruit alongside toasted caramel malts. Available in 650ml bombers."

To find more of Rebecca Whyman'sbeerpicks and Barbara Philip's wine picks, click here.