As a member of the new guard of cicerones (a.k.a. beer sommeliers) profiled in our July issue, Rich Higgins has a few opinions about beer: he's in favor of drinking extremely fresh, locally-made brews, and he's hoping to provide a moderate, European-influenced counterpoint to the proliferation of ultra-high-alcohol "extreme" beers. The new German beer nights at the Sunset's Social Kitchen & Brewery, where Higgins is head brewer, should be a great source of both. Based on the traditions of Köln and Düsseldorf, neighboring German towns with very different beer styles, the beer nights will provide drinkers with the opportunity to drink Higgins' house-brewed Social Kölsch (Mondays) and Old Time Alt (Tuesdays) in the traditional manner: from small, straight-sided beer glasses that will run $3 per 8-oz. pour, allowing for maximum frostiness and freshness. The two beers both clock in under 5% ABV, making them extremely "sessionable," the beer-industry term for brews that can be consumed in quantity without sacrificing the ability to get up for work the next morning.

To get the party started, Social will offer an assortment of free German-inspired treats on both nights from 6-7 pm, including homemade pretzels, sausages, and obaster cheese spread; drinkers can also order any item from the regular menu to pair with their beer. Servers will circulate frequently with fresh glasses, keeping a tally for the final bill. If you'd like to learn more about the history of the two German towns and their beer styles, be sure to hit the initial events on Monday, July 5 and Tuesday, July 6, where Higgins will discuss the brewing process and answer questions. Prost!

German Beer Nights will be held on the mezzanine each Monday (Köln Night) and Tuesday (Düsseldorf Night) from 6-10 pm at Social Kitchen and Brewery, 1326 9th Ave. at Irving St. in the Inner Sunset. Visit Social's website for more info and a full menu.