I'm back to the basics lately as well... the local grocer had Mirror Pond Pale Ale (Deschutes) on sale, and it's a real nice beer. Their Big Butte Black Porter is very good as well.

On another note, about a month ago we spent a Saturday afternoon at Piney River Brewery near Houston, MO. What a great setting. The owners were on site and were extremely friendly. Their enthusiasm and love of the place was evident. Bring your own BBQ. Can't say enough about it.
http://www.pineyriverbrewing.com/