There is an old dilemma that confronts those of us who are inclined towards quality beverages, and that is what do you drink in circumstances when glass bottles are not allowed? Ie by the pool, at the beach, and on the river floating in an inner tube.

Historically there have been very few beers (at least that I know of) that are both 1) canned and 2) good. This is not to say that the river is not a perfect home for a Lone Star tallboy or a 12-pack of Pearl. But what do you do if you want more flavor? A handful of brewers have responded to this problem by producing craft beers in cans. Oskar Blues Brewery of Lyons, CO, has apparently been producing its Dale's Pale Ale for several years, though I just started noticing it on shelves in Austin recently. (Statesman beer writer Patrick Beach discusses it here). It has been acclaimed as being the best canned beer and I in my limited experience cannot contest that claim.

I did not take this picture, which is why it is so clear and enticing

For tube floaters looking for more local flavor, check out Southern Star Brewery.
I found it at Central Market but I don't know where else it is available. Their Web site laments that "Unfortunately we cannot tell you where you can buy the beer due to Texas Law." That is such a stupid law that I would have thought it even too stupid for Texas... . Though the brew is no Dale's Pale, it is certainly a great start for the new brewery.

This beautiful picture is a Tipsy Texan original, featuring a tallboy of Pine Belt Pale Ale in a sea of Torchy's Tacos and queso.