I haven't done this in awhile now. I have to admit, I got discouraged. I wasn't seeing page views, and I let it get to me. You know what though? Who cares. I am doing this for myself ultimately. I want you to read it; to like it, but in the end, I just like writing. So here we go again. Also, this brew was so unique, I couldn't NOT write about it. Thanks to Alex Roberts for the gift!
Beer review #27
Boulevard Love Child No.2 American Wild Ale ABV 9.6%
Boulevard Brewing Company Kansas City, MO 22 oz Bomber poured into a Maredsous Tulip
A - A deep amber pour with a slight haziness. A thin beige head with small bubbles and little lacing give this a less than perfect appearance when poured, but that is also part of the style. No points for or against it then I suppose.
N - Vinegar acidity hits the nose first, with cherries, raspberries and some woodiness. Lemon comes in on the back end, playing up the tartness further. There is a battle going on here just in the aroma for dominance between sweet/sour. Smells like a Kriek, a sour, a red wine that has, JUST gone bad. Its very interesting and not at all unpleasant. As it warms, more of the Belgian pronounced 'funk' comes in along with a heavier wood flavor, and bourbon. The aging is definitely more noticeable after it has relaxed.
T - Wow. A lemon tart, acid explosion gets run over by a rush of ripened fruit. Orange, berries, apples--even an apple cider twang. The finish is long with feelings of crusty bread, and the bourbon holds the final note. The Brett is strong throughout, and for those not used to this, it may feel like this beer has gone bad at first. Slow down, let it coat your palate, warm up. The oak, bourbon heat is a stronger presence than I imagined from the aroma, but it is mellowed by all the other flavors at play. A real three circus of flavor.
M - Very thick, and very strong. For beginner sour drinkers, I would suggest something a bit lower on the pucker scale, and work your way up.
O - This is not a beer I could've drank 10 years ago. Maybe not 5 years ago. And even though I enjoy it occasionally now, its not a style I could have even once a week. It is definitely not for the faint of heart, but for those beer aficionados out there, Boulevard really cranks out some interesting, top-notch stuff with their Smokestack series. There are just so many levels of flavor and aroma here, that if you can get past the vinegar, acid, tartness levels initially, you will find yourself enjoying a truly one-of-a-kind beer. One of the more unique beers I have had in a very long time, thanks again Alex!
Cheers,
Chris
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Friday, May 18, 2012
Not so Funny
I write this blog fairly sadly this evening. I don't like not liking beer. I really like to like it. I want to be able to say good things about all the stuff I drink. I want to. This one was tough.
Clown Shoes Hoppy Feet Black IPA ABV: 7%
Clown Shoes Beer Ipswich, MA 22 oz brown bottle with nice artwork poured into tall pilsner
A - Even with the standard slow pour, this beer was way to happy to get out of the bottle. I fought an hour to get it fully poured, mostly staring at a glass of thick, chunky bubbles. Since the frothy head lingered so long, its really tough to tell if the strong lacing properties are from quality or just a result of holding the foam so long.
S - Roast, charcoal, smoke, malt. I am getting no hop aroma whatsoever.
T -Very, very bitter. Roasted notes with some charcoal and smoke kicking in. Way more BLACK than IPA as the hops hide in the background till the very last, coming through piney and bitter on the rear of the palate, leaving a long, dry finish of BBQ coals
M - Definitely on the carbonated side of right for my two cents. The rich coating flavors do work hard against that however.
O - This is a bit of a letdown after the 94 rating on BA. Although looking through those ratings, it does seem split between people like me, and people who loved it. I hope I just got a bad bottle, especially since I have another sitting in the cellar. There was just too much that was off in this bottle. There seem to be lots of good building blocks in place, they just never really get built upon. Its almost as if this beer was caught between a porter and an ale, and they decided to call it a Black IPA. I need more balance, more hops to sign off on this one. If the other bottle is good, I will certainly amend this review.
Cheers
Chris
Clown Shoes Hoppy Feet Black IPA ABV: 7%
Clown Shoes Beer Ipswich, MA 22 oz brown bottle with nice artwork poured into tall pilsner
A - Even with the standard slow pour, this beer was way to happy to get out of the bottle. I fought an hour to get it fully poured, mostly staring at a glass of thick, chunky bubbles. Since the frothy head lingered so long, its really tough to tell if the strong lacing properties are from quality or just a result of holding the foam so long.
S - Roast, charcoal, smoke, malt. I am getting no hop aroma whatsoever.
T -Very, very bitter. Roasted notes with some charcoal and smoke kicking in. Way more BLACK than IPA as the hops hide in the background till the very last, coming through piney and bitter on the rear of the palate, leaving a long, dry finish of BBQ coals
M - Definitely on the carbonated side of right for my two cents. The rich coating flavors do work hard against that however.
O - This is a bit of a letdown after the 94 rating on BA. Although looking through those ratings, it does seem split between people like me, and people who loved it. I hope I just got a bad bottle, especially since I have another sitting in the cellar. There was just too much that was off in this bottle. There seem to be lots of good building blocks in place, they just never really get built upon. Its almost as if this beer was caught between a porter and an ale, and they decided to call it a Black IPA. I need more balance, more hops to sign off on this one. If the other bottle is good, I will certainly amend this review.
Cheers
Chris
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Aye Aye Captain!
Ok this post is gonna be different. Different because I am going to review multiple beers (that isn't different) and a brewery all together. Skip the typical format, give overall impression, and let people up north know what they are or might be missing.
Last week, I went up to New York to help celebrate my sister's 30th birthday. We were in Elmsford, near White Plains, and I took the opportunity to try some new and local beers. In doing some research, I found that the Captain Lawrence Brewing Company had their brewery about 2 miles form where we staying. It seemed perfect. Little did I know, I was underestimating just how perfect it would be.
Brewery #1, beers #21-26
Captain Lawrence Brewing Company Elmsford, NY
A small brewery, tucked behind an industrial park, this place was a Beer Advocate aided find. Quite literally, you'd have to be going there to know it was there, and even then you might miss it. It is through the gates, around the back, with only a vinyl sign attached to the fence to announce its presence. Thanks to Google maps, and the iPad for your assistance. A large wooden barrel is in the parking lot, but you need to go further around, because the entrance is up against the back fence. Felt almost like being in on a secret, like a speakeasy, getting in. Just a main room, two restrooms, and a couple high top tables, with a bar to the left, and the brewery behind some glass doors in front of you as you enter. Not a lot to take in. We made our way to the bar.
As my dad and I got to the bar, we were greeted immediately by a friendly staff, who explained straight away that to sample you had to shell out a whopping $2 each for 3 oz souvenir glasses. $2?? Really?? Come on, man, I'm thinking. What's that you say barman? Oh, that's it, no more than that? My bad, this is a little better. And I what? I get two 3 oz samples of each draft at no additional cost? SOLD! With six drafts to choose from, the math is 36 oz for those math challenged. That is 3 full beers for just two bucks. Best deal going, and if you bring your glasses back, no more purchase necessary, just tips. Outstanding! They also have a variety of cheeses and meats to choose from, served up on a slate board, from a local butcher/deli. This costs extra, but at that point, I was euphoric anyway. Lets dive in!
First choice was the Family Meal, described as a 4 spiced pumpkin ale. I was a bit leery, considering I don't much care for pumpkin beers, but it was a lower ABV, so I started there. A brilliant, shining golden ale appeared in miniature before my eyes, and I immediately thought that this was no fall ale. It looked crisper, brighter, and no pumpkin aroma was discernible. Lots of spice, however, with clove and cinnamon hitting the right notes, and the right amount of carbonation to balance the light hops and faint yeastiness. It was like Thanksgiving on the tongue, with familiar tastes, and a refreshing finish; it was everything but pumpkin to me, but that made it more pumpkin. Like a donut, where all the other flavors of pumpkin pie are there, except the pumpkin filling. It was delicious, but I helped myself to my second serving just to be sure. Yep, I was right, very nice indeed.
Next up, we moved to the aptly named 'Brown Ale.' Honestly, there just isn't much for me to say here. Its not my favorite style, and this wasn't memorable. It was textbook brown ale, with the nuttiness, and malt character you'd expect. It was a little thin tasting, and there were some hop notes, but again, as most browns go...this one went. As did the second 3 ouncer...
Captain's Kolsch next. Cold, wet, good palate cleanser. Not my thing, I moved along. Not even seconds here, I tasted it simply to taste, but felt no need to linger, so I moved on to...
Liquid gold. Now, here is one i was looking forward to. A Belgian pale, well rated, pretty popular, and on the edge of my favorite style. Some excitement. And a let down. Too much 'funk' here. I like the Belgian beers for that yeasty, farmhouse, grassy aroma, flavor, finish, but I was left wanting here. The notes were there, but too overpoweringly so. There was little balance. It clung to all parts of my mouth, and down the throat. It just seemed off. So I asked the barman if this was the intention. He had a sip and admitted it seemed a bit different. He tried the other line it was assigned to, declared that one proper, and served me that. No use. I had been tainted. I could taste nothing else at that moment, and the faint notes in the good glass, stood out strong in my flavor memory. Sad times. I look forward to trying again at some point in the future.
Some food would be nice. And was it! Strong & mild cheeses, prosciutto, salami, gherkins, olives. Salt and protein. Mmm. Very lovely indeed.
Now, I saved these last two for last, because, well, I wanted to. They are more along my preferred types, and I wanted a strong, hoppy finish. But before we could get started towards the pale ales, tragedy struck. With a swift swipe, the bartender drew a line on the chalkboard through the Xtra Gold, the Tripel, the coup de grace. I was aghast. How could this be? Maybe if I'd started there, things would be ok, but no going back. I needed to drown my sorrows, three ounces at a time.
Freshchester, or Captain Lawrence Pale Ale was next in line, and I was very pleased. I'd seen this throughout town, but had refrained, wanting to try it direct from the source. I'm glad I did, but I'd soon wish that I'd indulged sooner. A bright, crisp pale ale with a more malty nose than expected, and some decent head retention and lacing. The hops are piney and noticeable, but a definite East Coast rendering, with the fruitiness down played. It reminds me of a generously buttered chunk of rough bread, the creamy butter fighting hard against the yeast and holding its own. Pine dances here and there, and a light finish complete a well constructed beer. My six ounces would have to be enough on this day, but dangit, opportunities--see, 'pints'--missed by passing this up previously. Not quite a session beer at 5.6% ABV, but it has that all day drinkability to it for sure.
As dad and I were settling up, sad that we'd been robbed of our final choice, the people in line next to us were doing a growler fill. They too were disheartened at the news of no Xtra Gold. But this keen-eyed gentleman noticed two bombers sitting in the display behind the counter, not on the 'for sale' aka empty shelf, but with the shirts and hats and coolers and such. He asked the bartender if he could have those, got a yes, and before I knew what happened, I blurted, 'I'll take one of them from you!!' Um. Rude. 'I mean, if that's ok with you.' Better. But not by much. 'Man.' There, that should do it. And to my beer geek happiness, he smiled and said, 'sure, why not.' VICTORY! I almost hugged him. Feeling that might have been too much, I simply nodded and offered profuse happiness. Dad and I had a hotel beer!
After a nap, while prepping for my sister's surprise party--that's how this all started you remember--we enjoyed this 10% ABV beast. It was happy to see us too, carbonation abounded. Froth upon froth poured out and I feared we had shaken or disturbed it. It finally settled, and the aromas of pear and apple and orange and lemon hit me. Like a fruit basket buoyed by yeast, with faint caramel, toasty malt. The funk is present, its here, but in much greater balance than the previous BPA. Its a lovely dance, each ingredient playing its part, knowing its steps. A little thin on the mouthfeel, and the carbonation gave it almost a champagne quality that I didn't expect, but also didn't completely hate, but I'm nit-picking. I really enjoyed this, and it was a great close to a great day, with an above average run of beers.
Well, if you've made it all the way through this rambling narrative, and you haven't discovered that CL is the best $2 money can buy, I suggest Econ for Dummies, widely available everywhere. Staff, and beer, and food were way above par; facilities on par, though a bit small. And a friendly group of craftbeer people, in Elmsford, NY, who are definitely in on the secret. And they know it, the smiles above their 3 oz mini-pints prove it. If you're anywhere near, please don't miss out. Thank you for a great day Captain Lawrence staff!
Cheers,
Chris
Last week, I went up to New York to help celebrate my sister's 30th birthday. We were in Elmsford, near White Plains, and I took the opportunity to try some new and local beers. In doing some research, I found that the Captain Lawrence Brewing Company had their brewery about 2 miles form where we staying. It seemed perfect. Little did I know, I was underestimating just how perfect it would be.
Brewery #1, beers #21-26
Captain Lawrence Brewing Company Elmsford, NY
A small brewery, tucked behind an industrial park, this place was a Beer Advocate aided find. Quite literally, you'd have to be going there to know it was there, and even then you might miss it. It is through the gates, around the back, with only a vinyl sign attached to the fence to announce its presence. Thanks to Google maps, and the iPad for your assistance. A large wooden barrel is in the parking lot, but you need to go further around, because the entrance is up against the back fence. Felt almost like being in on a secret, like a speakeasy, getting in. Just a main room, two restrooms, and a couple high top tables, with a bar to the left, and the brewery behind some glass doors in front of you as you enter. Not a lot to take in. We made our way to the bar.
As my dad and I got to the bar, we were greeted immediately by a friendly staff, who explained straight away that to sample you had to shell out a whopping $2 each for 3 oz souvenir glasses. $2?? Really?? Come on, man, I'm thinking. What's that you say barman? Oh, that's it, no more than that? My bad, this is a little better. And I what? I get two 3 oz samples of each draft at no additional cost? SOLD! With six drafts to choose from, the math is 36 oz for those math challenged. That is 3 full beers for just two bucks. Best deal going, and if you bring your glasses back, no more purchase necessary, just tips. Outstanding! They also have a variety of cheeses and meats to choose from, served up on a slate board, from a local butcher/deli. This costs extra, but at that point, I was euphoric anyway. Lets dive in!
First choice was the Family Meal, described as a 4 spiced pumpkin ale. I was a bit leery, considering I don't much care for pumpkin beers, but it was a lower ABV, so I started there. A brilliant, shining golden ale appeared in miniature before my eyes, and I immediately thought that this was no fall ale. It looked crisper, brighter, and no pumpkin aroma was discernible. Lots of spice, however, with clove and cinnamon hitting the right notes, and the right amount of carbonation to balance the light hops and faint yeastiness. It was like Thanksgiving on the tongue, with familiar tastes, and a refreshing finish; it was everything but pumpkin to me, but that made it more pumpkin. Like a donut, where all the other flavors of pumpkin pie are there, except the pumpkin filling. It was delicious, but I helped myself to my second serving just to be sure. Yep, I was right, very nice indeed.
Next up, we moved to the aptly named 'Brown Ale.' Honestly, there just isn't much for me to say here. Its not my favorite style, and this wasn't memorable. It was textbook brown ale, with the nuttiness, and malt character you'd expect. It was a little thin tasting, and there were some hop notes, but again, as most browns go...this one went. As did the second 3 ouncer...
Captain's Kolsch next. Cold, wet, good palate cleanser. Not my thing, I moved along. Not even seconds here, I tasted it simply to taste, but felt no need to linger, so I moved on to...
Liquid gold. Now, here is one i was looking forward to. A Belgian pale, well rated, pretty popular, and on the edge of my favorite style. Some excitement. And a let down. Too much 'funk' here. I like the Belgian beers for that yeasty, farmhouse, grassy aroma, flavor, finish, but I was left wanting here. The notes were there, but too overpoweringly so. There was little balance. It clung to all parts of my mouth, and down the throat. It just seemed off. So I asked the barman if this was the intention. He had a sip and admitted it seemed a bit different. He tried the other line it was assigned to, declared that one proper, and served me that. No use. I had been tainted. I could taste nothing else at that moment, and the faint notes in the good glass, stood out strong in my flavor memory. Sad times. I look forward to trying again at some point in the future.
Some food would be nice. And was it! Strong & mild cheeses, prosciutto, salami, gherkins, olives. Salt and protein. Mmm. Very lovely indeed.
Now, I saved these last two for last, because, well, I wanted to. They are more along my preferred types, and I wanted a strong, hoppy finish. But before we could get started towards the pale ales, tragedy struck. With a swift swipe, the bartender drew a line on the chalkboard through the Xtra Gold, the Tripel, the coup de grace. I was aghast. How could this be? Maybe if I'd started there, things would be ok, but no going back. I needed to drown my sorrows, three ounces at a time.
Freshchester, or Captain Lawrence Pale Ale was next in line, and I was very pleased. I'd seen this throughout town, but had refrained, wanting to try it direct from the source. I'm glad I did, but I'd soon wish that I'd indulged sooner. A bright, crisp pale ale with a more malty nose than expected, and some decent head retention and lacing. The hops are piney and noticeable, but a definite East Coast rendering, with the fruitiness down played. It reminds me of a generously buttered chunk of rough bread, the creamy butter fighting hard against the yeast and holding its own. Pine dances here and there, and a light finish complete a well constructed beer. My six ounces would have to be enough on this day, but dangit, opportunities--see, 'pints'--missed by passing this up previously. Not quite a session beer at 5.6% ABV, but it has that all day drinkability to it for sure.
As dad and I were settling up, sad that we'd been robbed of our final choice, the people in line next to us were doing a growler fill. They too were disheartened at the news of no Xtra Gold. But this keen-eyed gentleman noticed two bombers sitting in the display behind the counter, not on the 'for sale' aka empty shelf, but with the shirts and hats and coolers and such. He asked the bartender if he could have those, got a yes, and before I knew what happened, I blurted, 'I'll take one of them from you!!' Um. Rude. 'I mean, if that's ok with you.' Better. But not by much. 'Man.' There, that should do it. And to my beer geek happiness, he smiled and said, 'sure, why not.' VICTORY! I almost hugged him. Feeling that might have been too much, I simply nodded and offered profuse happiness. Dad and I had a hotel beer!
After a nap, while prepping for my sister's surprise party--that's how this all started you remember--we enjoyed this 10% ABV beast. It was happy to see us too, carbonation abounded. Froth upon froth poured out and I feared we had shaken or disturbed it. It finally settled, and the aromas of pear and apple and orange and lemon hit me. Like a fruit basket buoyed by yeast, with faint caramel, toasty malt. The funk is present, its here, but in much greater balance than the previous BPA. Its a lovely dance, each ingredient playing its part, knowing its steps. A little thin on the mouthfeel, and the carbonation gave it almost a champagne quality that I didn't expect, but also didn't completely hate, but I'm nit-picking. I really enjoyed this, and it was a great close to a great day, with an above average run of beers.
Well, if you've made it all the way through this rambling narrative, and you haven't discovered that CL is the best $2 money can buy, I suggest Econ for Dummies, widely available everywhere. Staff, and beer, and food were way above par; facilities on par, though a bit small. And a friendly group of craftbeer people, in Elmsford, NY, who are definitely in on the secret. And they know it, the smiles above their 3 oz mini-pints prove it. If you're anywhere near, please don't miss out. Thank you for a great day Captain Lawrence staff!
Cheers,
Chris
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Across the Bow!
Review #20
Torpedo Extra IPA ABV 7.2%
Sierra Nevada Chico, CA 12 oz poured into tulip
A: Bright copper colored pour with a fluffy, generous head; about 2 fingers worth. Great lacing, with tremendous head retention
N: Expected citrus and pine IPA aromas, but with plenty of depth to spare. Levels of floral hops layered with bready caramel. Grapefruit the most prevalent of the citrus, with hints of lemon
T: Bitter hops with a lovely malt balance, the slight toast on the malts keeping the powerful piney and citrus hope beast at bay. A long deliciously bitter finish, excites the palate with the tang of orange zest and snippets of lemongrass. The whole cone hops are definite champs here.
M: Crisp and refreshing with enough carbonation to balance the hop oils and not be to sudsy.
O: A tremendous, steroid-infused IPA. A beginning hop-head dream, with every note played perfect in the IPA symphony. Completely textbook, and yet never boring. A real go-to for me, and has been for years. Sierra Nevada really is a great example of what a craft beer company can be long-term. Mature, develop, branch out...don't lose your roots.
Cheers,
Chris
Torpedo Extra IPA ABV 7.2%
Sierra Nevada Chico, CA 12 oz poured into tulip
A: Bright copper colored pour with a fluffy, generous head; about 2 fingers worth. Great lacing, with tremendous head retention
N: Expected citrus and pine IPA aromas, but with plenty of depth to spare. Levels of floral hops layered with bready caramel. Grapefruit the most prevalent of the citrus, with hints of lemon
T: Bitter hops with a lovely malt balance, the slight toast on the malts keeping the powerful piney and citrus hope beast at bay. A long deliciously bitter finish, excites the palate with the tang of orange zest and snippets of lemongrass. The whole cone hops are definite champs here.
M: Crisp and refreshing with enough carbonation to balance the hop oils and not be to sudsy.
O: A tremendous, steroid-infused IPA. A beginning hop-head dream, with every note played perfect in the IPA symphony. Completely textbook, and yet never boring. A real go-to for me, and has been for years. Sierra Nevada really is a great example of what a craft beer company can be long-term. Mature, develop, branch out...don't lose your roots.
Cheers,
Chris
Monday, April 16, 2012
We Bury the Hatchet
This is courtesy of Troy Ellis, a fellow Beer Geek, and sometime tasting companion. Thanks buddy!
Review #19
Buried Hatchet Stout ABV: 8.25%
Southern Star Brewing Company Conroe, TX 12 oz CAN into a snifter
A - If this makes any sense to you, it is a light, dark brown pour. Made sense to me. Its near as dark as most other double stouts. Itty bitty espresso colored head, with an even smaller amount of carbonbation rising to meet it.
S - Black currants, burned caramel, chocolate & raisins hit me all in a rush. Roast malts, with a cloying sweetness underlying. Smells of maple syrup. Or maybe just maple. A certain dampness to, like wet leaves on the ground.
T - A little think and watery tasting at first for a higher ABV beverage. All the flavors from the nose are present on the palate, kind of a piggy-back sensation from smell to taste. The dark, bitter chocolate cuts that overall sweetness of the other flavors so that everything balances very nicely in the end.
M - A very silky, medium-bodied mouth feel after the first one or two watery tastes. Don't know what that was about.
O - A very nice stout. My only real complaints are the 'too-light' on the dark brown spectrum appearance and initial thin taste. I really enjoyed this, and it doesn't smack you around quite as much as some other doubles. Thanks again, Troy!
Cheers
Chris
Review #19
Buried Hatchet Stout ABV: 8.25%
Southern Star Brewing Company Conroe, TX 12 oz CAN into a snifter
A - If this makes any sense to you, it is a light, dark brown pour. Made sense to me. Its near as dark as most other double stouts. Itty bitty espresso colored head, with an even smaller amount of carbonbation rising to meet it.
S - Black currants, burned caramel, chocolate & raisins hit me all in a rush. Roast malts, with a cloying sweetness underlying. Smells of maple syrup. Or maybe just maple. A certain dampness to, like wet leaves on the ground.
T - A little think and watery tasting at first for a higher ABV beverage. All the flavors from the nose are present on the palate, kind of a piggy-back sensation from smell to taste. The dark, bitter chocolate cuts that overall sweetness of the other flavors so that everything balances very nicely in the end.
M - A very silky, medium-bodied mouth feel after the first one or two watery tastes. Don't know what that was about.
O - A very nice stout. My only real complaints are the 'too-light' on the dark brown spectrum appearance and initial thin taste. I really enjoyed this, and it doesn't smack you around quite as much as some other doubles. Thanks again, Troy!
Cheers
Chris
Friday, April 6, 2012
3 strikes (with Pop)
Well, in honor of baseball season, and since I've been away, I figured I'd roar back with three reviews at once. 3 strikes if you will. These are slightly interesting for me, as I tasted these with my dad, and got his opinions as well. At nearly 60, I'm working him into this craft beer thing and trying to tease out of him what exactly he likes, but more importantly, WHY. He kept saying, "I don't know", "I don't know." By the third one, you could tell, he was feeling slightly more comfortable with his analysis. It was fun. One more father-son thing to enjoy.
Review #16
Schlafly Reserve Imperial Stout 2008 ABV 10.5%
Saint Louis/Schlafly Brewery 750 ml brown bottle split into two brandy glasses
A - This poured a deep, rich brown-black with mahogany edges when held to the light. Small, latte colored head only made a brief appearance, leaving no laing behind to remind us of its existence at all. Good thing I wrote it down first. Pop said: Walnut black, no light. I liked his walnut black description. Nice
S - Immediately with these big, bold stouts, you're hit with the standard coffee and chocolate, they are easy to pick out, and they are certainly present here as well. With a deeper whiff though, I was struck by wet leather, toffee, & caramel. I can smell the bourbon barrel aging, but it isn't dominant, leaves a pleasant burn down the back of the throat. An almost decadent roasted richness, which you expect, but goes even further. Pop said: I smell Snickers. Huh. I like that too. He's kicking my butt with descriptions, I'm just being wordier. Step it up Chris.
T - Brilliantly smooth. Like melted chocolate velvet. I know that isn't a real thing, but you just got that image didn't you? I win. Vanilla and chocolate notes playing well together with neither being too pushy or assertive. The bourbon heat on the finish is much stronger than the nose would've indicated, but it isn't unpleasant, and brings the warmth and hair prickles to the back of the neck. Pop said: Tastes like Snickers...without the nuts. And what you just said. YES! I won that round Ol' Man!
M - Very creamy and soft, texture is amazing. None of the harshness you get from a bad/mediocre stout. Pop said it was great. Can't argue one bit.
O - This was outstanding. Its simply a great beer. My major problem is that is was entirely too smooth, too drinkable, too DANG good for 10.5% ABV. Wonderful depth of character, layers, upon layers of flavor. A remarkable beer that I am glad I split; both for the ABV reasons (duh) and because it was a memory beer. We'll definitely have future conversations and comparisons to this one.
Review #17
Adoration Special Winter Ale ABV: 10%
Ommegang Brewery, Cooperstown, NY 750 ml bottle split into two red wine glasses
A - This variation on a winter warmer poured a chestnut brown with sparkling ruby slipper, er, edges. The off-white head disappeared quickly, leaving the glass full of tiny, rapidly rising bubbles, and floating sediment. A Belgian styled Winter? Would expect nothing less from Ommegang. Pop said: Red Oak or leather colored, spiraling bubbles. His bubbles must've been on the scenic route to the top.
S - Sweet alcohol heat, with spicy cinnamon and slightly burnt brown sugar. Some brandied cherries, with citrus. Very little, if any, hope presence here. A peppery cling to the back end. Pop said: Fruitcake & tobacco. Between fruitcake and Snickers, I think Pop mighta been hungry.
T - Dark fruits hit me immediately; currants, figs, cherries. The malt comes in with some caramel, toffee sweetness. Then the spices hit. Lots, but they are needed after two layers of sweet. Pepper, coriander, cinnamon. Its a lingering ale with a hot finish, that is a bit on the unpleasant side, if I am honest. (like to think I am) The aftertaste is confusing with that Belgian "farmhouse funk" mixed with sticky sweet lips. Hmm. Pop said: Candied fruits, with a tart finish.
M - Bubbly and very tingly on the tongue, almost, but not quite enough carbonation to cut the sweetness. Pop agreed
O - An interesting warmer. Certainly made with Ommegang's natural Belgian lean. It got better and mellowed out as it warmed. Would be better enjoyed during a colder winter, next to a fireplace. Just too many layers of sweet for me to really work. Wasn't terrible at all, but not sure I'd seek it out either. Pop thought it would be good with a cigar. That might help cut it, maybe we'll try again after all.
Review #18
Freetail Velocihopter ABV: 6.5%
Freetail Brewing Company, San Antonio, TX 750 ml bottle split into pint glasses
A - A coppery fire colored pour that leaves a generous milky colored head with strong lacing character. Pop said: mm-hmm. I'll take that as an agree.
S - Floral and grasssy nose, but very malty for an IPA. Definite more malt than hop, though the hops are discernible. The mix brings an earthy flavor to mind. Pop said: Smells like a freshly mowed yard. I get that.
T - Banana bread strikes me first. I don't like banana bread. Then hops, then yeast. In that order. Then more banana bread. Definitely a malt-forward IPA. Pop said he got unripe bananas. So, we were close.
M - A very carbonated, chewy IPA. Malt strikes again. Pop: its heavy feeling.
O - Though I do not like banana bread, and this is not what I was expecting opening an IPA, I like it. I don't love it, but since I go to Freetail whenever I am in San Antonio, if they have this, I'd order it again. Its more akin to a English/Euro style IPA, and that is fine obviously. Just a case of my expectations and my taste buds clashing at first. Maybe next bottle run adding 'English' before the IPA would help. Pop went to bed. Love you man, sleep well.
Cheers,
Chris
Review #16
Schlafly Reserve Imperial Stout 2008 ABV 10.5%
Saint Louis/Schlafly Brewery 750 ml brown bottle split into two brandy glasses
A - This poured a deep, rich brown-black with mahogany edges when held to the light. Small, latte colored head only made a brief appearance, leaving no laing behind to remind us of its existence at all. Good thing I wrote it down first. Pop said: Walnut black, no light. I liked his walnut black description. Nice
S - Immediately with these big, bold stouts, you're hit with the standard coffee and chocolate, they are easy to pick out, and they are certainly present here as well. With a deeper whiff though, I was struck by wet leather, toffee, & caramel. I can smell the bourbon barrel aging, but it isn't dominant, leaves a pleasant burn down the back of the throat. An almost decadent roasted richness, which you expect, but goes even further. Pop said: I smell Snickers. Huh. I like that too. He's kicking my butt with descriptions, I'm just being wordier. Step it up Chris.
T - Brilliantly smooth. Like melted chocolate velvet. I know that isn't a real thing, but you just got that image didn't you? I win. Vanilla and chocolate notes playing well together with neither being too pushy or assertive. The bourbon heat on the finish is much stronger than the nose would've indicated, but it isn't unpleasant, and brings the warmth and hair prickles to the back of the neck. Pop said: Tastes like Snickers...without the nuts. And what you just said. YES! I won that round Ol' Man!
M - Very creamy and soft, texture is amazing. None of the harshness you get from a bad/mediocre stout. Pop said it was great. Can't argue one bit.
O - This was outstanding. Its simply a great beer. My major problem is that is was entirely too smooth, too drinkable, too DANG good for 10.5% ABV. Wonderful depth of character, layers, upon layers of flavor. A remarkable beer that I am glad I split; both for the ABV reasons (duh) and because it was a memory beer. We'll definitely have future conversations and comparisons to this one.
Review #17
Adoration Special Winter Ale ABV: 10%
Ommegang Brewery, Cooperstown, NY 750 ml bottle split into two red wine glasses
A - This variation on a winter warmer poured a chestnut brown with sparkling ruby slipper, er, edges. The off-white head disappeared quickly, leaving the glass full of tiny, rapidly rising bubbles, and floating sediment. A Belgian styled Winter? Would expect nothing less from Ommegang. Pop said: Red Oak or leather colored, spiraling bubbles. His bubbles must've been on the scenic route to the top.
S - Sweet alcohol heat, with spicy cinnamon and slightly burnt brown sugar. Some brandied cherries, with citrus. Very little, if any, hope presence here. A peppery cling to the back end. Pop said: Fruitcake & tobacco. Between fruitcake and Snickers, I think Pop mighta been hungry.
T - Dark fruits hit me immediately; currants, figs, cherries. The malt comes in with some caramel, toffee sweetness. Then the spices hit. Lots, but they are needed after two layers of sweet. Pepper, coriander, cinnamon. Its a lingering ale with a hot finish, that is a bit on the unpleasant side, if I am honest. (like to think I am) The aftertaste is confusing with that Belgian "farmhouse funk" mixed with sticky sweet lips. Hmm. Pop said: Candied fruits, with a tart finish.
M - Bubbly and very tingly on the tongue, almost, but not quite enough carbonation to cut the sweetness. Pop agreed
O - An interesting warmer. Certainly made with Ommegang's natural Belgian lean. It got better and mellowed out as it warmed. Would be better enjoyed during a colder winter, next to a fireplace. Just too many layers of sweet for me to really work. Wasn't terrible at all, but not sure I'd seek it out either. Pop thought it would be good with a cigar. That might help cut it, maybe we'll try again after all.
Review #18
Freetail Velocihopter ABV: 6.5%
Freetail Brewing Company, San Antonio, TX 750 ml bottle split into pint glasses
A - A coppery fire colored pour that leaves a generous milky colored head with strong lacing character. Pop said: mm-hmm. I'll take that as an agree.
S - Floral and grasssy nose, but very malty for an IPA. Definite more malt than hop, though the hops are discernible. The mix brings an earthy flavor to mind. Pop said: Smells like a freshly mowed yard. I get that.
T - Banana bread strikes me first. I don't like banana bread. Then hops, then yeast. In that order. Then more banana bread. Definitely a malt-forward IPA. Pop said he got unripe bananas. So, we were close.
M - A very carbonated, chewy IPA. Malt strikes again. Pop: its heavy feeling.
O - Though I do not like banana bread, and this is not what I was expecting opening an IPA, I like it. I don't love it, but since I go to Freetail whenever I am in San Antonio, if they have this, I'd order it again. Its more akin to a English/Euro style IPA, and that is fine obviously. Just a case of my expectations and my taste buds clashing at first. Maybe next bottle run adding 'English' before the IPA would help. Pop went to bed. Love you man, sleep well.
Cheers,
Chris
Friday, March 9, 2012
A Russian Beast
Review #15
Old Rasputin XIV Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout ABV: 11.5%
North Coast Brewing Co. Ft. Bragg, CA 500ml brown bomber poured into Imperial pint glass
**First note: Although this looks and feels like a 750 ml, it is only 500 ml. I felt slightly ripped off.**
A - An amazing deep brown-black with little to no light transmission. Not any carbonation to speak of, and a creamed coffee, small head. Some moderate lacing, about what you'd expect really.
S - First whiff gives off aged oak and cocoa nibs. There is an underlying sweet vanilla, with a bourbon backbone. The bourbon is not overwhelming, but it is in the air. Wet bark and campfires came to mind; a fall campground perhaps. A rich sweetness sticks with you after the initial sniff.
T - Strong, with a dry finish. Definite alcohol warmth here. Every aroma comes through on flavor with the bourbon being a touch stronger on the palate. Toffee and roasted malts, with a distinct char feeling. Very well balanced, the sweetness plays well off of the dry, bitter chocolate and alcohol burn.
M - A bit thin for this style if I'm being fair. Not really enough flavor lingers after the swallow. My least favorite part. It does have a small amount of chewiness up front, it just fades far too quickly
O - This is borderline outstanding. A wonderful added depth to an already tremendous beer. Not flawless, but very good. A real treat on a cool evening to give you some inner warmth and fond memories of campfires and s'mores.
Cheers,
Chris
Old Rasputin XIV Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout ABV: 11.5%
North Coast Brewing Co. Ft. Bragg, CA 500ml brown bomber poured into Imperial pint glass
**First note: Although this looks and feels like a 750 ml, it is only 500 ml. I felt slightly ripped off.**
A - An amazing deep brown-black with little to no light transmission. Not any carbonation to speak of, and a creamed coffee, small head. Some moderate lacing, about what you'd expect really.
S - First whiff gives off aged oak and cocoa nibs. There is an underlying sweet vanilla, with a bourbon backbone. The bourbon is not overwhelming, but it is in the air. Wet bark and campfires came to mind; a fall campground perhaps. A rich sweetness sticks with you after the initial sniff.
T - Strong, with a dry finish. Definite alcohol warmth here. Every aroma comes through on flavor with the bourbon being a touch stronger on the palate. Toffee and roasted malts, with a distinct char feeling. Very well balanced, the sweetness plays well off of the dry, bitter chocolate and alcohol burn.
M - A bit thin for this style if I'm being fair. Not really enough flavor lingers after the swallow. My least favorite part. It does have a small amount of chewiness up front, it just fades far too quickly
O - This is borderline outstanding. A wonderful added depth to an already tremendous beer. Not flawless, but very good. A real treat on a cool evening to give you some inner warmth and fond memories of campfires and s'mores.
Cheers,
Chris
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