Ymm, beer

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Shoot, Ozzie even had a brown ale for breakfast! With an omelette!!

I think the next post here is #2000.
The breakfast of champions! For hopefully post #2000.:D:D:D:D
Nope! #2001, a space odyssey!

[CameronBornAndBred]

2000 posts....that's a lot of yummy beer. Cheers to 2000 more!

[CameronBornAndBred]

If someone wishes to take #2000, be my/our guest, but please make it a GOOD one.
And with those words, you posted #2000. HA!

[DevilAlumna]

Does the Denver airport also have a New Belgium brew pub? I thought DA spent some time there (hours?) during a layover last month.


It does, and I did. You have to really *want* to get there, tho, as it's quite the trek. It's in the B terminal, iirc, way out past the main gates, on your way down to the tiny commuter gate corridor. Still, the beer was yummy and cold!

[devildeac]

It does, and I did. You have to really *want* to get there, tho, as it's quite the trek. It's in the B terminal, iirc, way out past the main gates, on your way down to the tiny commuter gate corridor. Still, the beer was yummy and cold!

If you're still at the airport,Ozzie, go ahead and make the trek! Or, find the NB pub on your return journey/layover;).

[rockymtn devil]

It does, and I did. You have to really *want* to get there, tho, as it's quite the trek. It's in the B terminal, iirc, way out past the main gates, on your way down to the tiny commuter gate corridor. Still, the beer was yummy and cold!

This is exactly where it is. In the B terminal near the gates that go to cities that no one should want to go to.

[Lavabe]

This is exactly where it is. In the B terminal near the gates that go to cities that no one should want to go to.

Cities such as?;)

[rockymtn devil]

Cities such as?;)

Um...Colorado Springs.

[devildeac]

Insanity-Weyerbacher Brewing Company-2008 edition-Oh my, is this good. It is their Blithering Idiot Barleywine aged in oak bourbon barrels. Heavily malty and slightly brown-sugary sweet with dark fruit flavors. Reminds me of dark and sour cherries and dates. Bourbon clearly in the late taste but not overpowering. Mild woody/oaky flavors and aromas. Don't know the IBU but suspect 80-90, maybe higher, but it is well-balanced. 11.1% ABV and not hidden at all. This is potent. I allowed this to warm to about 55 degrees or so and it makes a huge difference from a "cold" beer. The more I think about it, the more these folks remind me of the Avery folks that RMD raves about with his brew reviews. Very creative, high gravity specialty ales with a number of different styles. Next week, I'll enjoy their Blasphemy production. If you have any connections back east, RMD, get them to bring you some bombers of Weyerbacher brews and see what you think compared to the Avery line.

[Lavabe]

Um...Colorado Springs.

:eek:

Is there any other place I shouldn't go in Colorado? Greeley?

[rockymtn devil]

:eek:

Is there any other place I shouldn't go in Colorado? Greeley?

Colorado Springs is gorgeous, it just not a city that takes kindly to my kind (any more and this will be on the PPB :cool:). Greeley smells. Avoid at all costs and just skip right on to Ft. Collins--which happens to be the home of both New Belgium and Odels. I almost took a job in Greeley last March but couldn't do it.

DD, Weyerbacher looks great. Any brewery that makes a Triple IPA is top-notch in my book. They also have great labels. Doesn't look like they distribute west of Wisconsin, but I'll have to keep an eye out when I'm in Ohio.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

If you're still at the airport,Ozzie, go ahead and make the trek! Or, find the NB pub on your return journey/layover;).
No, I got out of the airport on time at 12:25 and to SAN early.

The return flight only has a 45 minute turn around time, barely enough to change plans at the same gate complex, much less go hunting for remote parts of the airport. Maybe next time, if there is a next time.

Oh, had a couple of Corona's last night at a Mexican restaurant here, but I'll skip the review. :)

[devildeac]

Colorado Springs is gorgeous, it just not a city that takes kindly to my kind (any more and this will be on the PPB :cool:). Greeley smells. Avoid at all costs and just skip right on to Ft. Collins--which happens to be the home of both New Belgium and Odels. I almost took a job in Greeley last March but couldn't do it.

DD, Weyerbacher looks great. Any brewery that makes a Triple IPA is top-notch in my book. They also have great labels. Doesn't look like they distribute west of Wisconsin, but I'll have to keep an eye out when I'm in Ohio.

If they distribute to NC, it would only make sense that they distribute to the larger markets in Ohio, too. Happy beer hunting!

[devildeac]

Oh, had a couple of Corona's last night at a Mexican restaurant here, but I'll skip the review. :)[/QUOTE]

There's a "ychh, beer" thread for that:o. (jk folks, I know there is a time a place for light lagers and lawnmower beers...)

[CameronBornAndBred]

I just boxed up a homebrew sampler pack to bring this coming weekend. I've got a very hoppy oatmeal stout, an altbier, and a smokey IPA..my very first all-grain. I'm bottling today as well another all-grain pale ale, so I'm sure it will be coming along, too.

[bluebear]

I'm become addicted this week to Victory's Old horizontal Barleywine...reviewed here several times in the past..easy to drink with a nice blend of malt and hops...I even convinced my wife (a non beer drinker) to try one tonight..a move which I now regret as I stare at the one lonely bottle remaining from the 6 pack I bought on monday...I should probably just put it out of its misery tonight...

[devildeac]

I'm become addicted this week to Victory's Old horizontal Barleywine...reviewed here several times in the past..easy to drink with a nice blend of malt and hops...I even convinced my wife (a non beer drinker) to try one tonight..a move which I now regret as I stare at the one lonely bottle remaining from the 6 pack I bought on monday...I should probably just put it out of its misery tonight...

Barleywines can be tough to drink, especially for the non-beer drinker.

Solution to your problem: go buy another 6er and store it for a year in a dry/cool/dimly lit place in your house and sample one of them again in January, 2010. And then one in 2011. And then... Seriously. They change taste and character if they are "aged."

[CameronBornAndBred]

Barleywines can be tough to drink, especially for the non-beer drinker.

Solution to your problem: go buy another 6er and store it for a year in a dry/cool/dimly lit place in your house and sample one of them again in January, 2010. And then one in 2011. And then... Seriously. They change taste and character if they are "aged."
I've had two aged Bigfoot's from DD, (2006 and 2007), and a couple of other barleywines from him that were aged. Bless him for his patience, he has more than I, but it pays off. Way tasty.

[rockymtn devil]

I've had two aged Bigfoot's from DD, (2006 and 2007), and a couple of other barleywines from him that were aged. Bless him for his patience, he has more than I, but it pays off. Way tasty.

The patience is tough. That's why I always buy a couple of any beer I want to age.

What's everyone drinking for the Super Bowl? I have Avery 14'er ESB which is a rare session beer both for me and the brewery.

[CameronBornAndBred]

The patience is tough. That's why I always buy a couple of any beer I want to age.

What's everyone drinking for the Super Bowl? I have Avery 14'er ESB which is a rare session beer both for me and the brewery.
I'm homing it for the game. I'll be swapping off between smokey IPA's and the Alt. I have a hard cider for somewhere in there too. (My only cellaring success, I bottled it over a year ago. The only reason I still have it is because I lost 10 of them, recently found.)

[captmojo]

The patience is tough. That's why I always buy a couple of any beer I want to age.

What's everyone drinking for the Super Bowl? I have Avery 14'er ESB which is a rare session beer both for me and the brewery.

I got a case of Spaten Oktoberfest at Sam's club in Winston Salem Friday. They finally dropped the price down to $20. It has really mellowed since they first got it. Taste is very complex and the alcohol bite is nearly non-existent.

[rockymtn devil]

I got a case of Spaten Oktoberfest at Sam's club in Winston Salem Friday. They finally dropped the price down to $20. It has really mellowed since they first got it. Taste is very complex and the alcohol bite is nearly non-existent.

Sounds delicious.

In celebration of the Steeler victory I'm opening a bottle of Avery Fifteen.

GO STEELERS!!!

[ohioguy2]

Has anyone else had Goose Island's 312 beer. It is billed as an "urban wheat", whatever that means (I picture wheat fields growing in parking lots). Some of the local drinking establishments are now featuring it on tap. It is a pleasant tasting brew with a few fruit flavors that linger. I had it with a fish sandwich, and it went down easily.

[rockymtn devil]

This thread made it to page two, so it needed a post.

Stopped at the liquor looking for two particular things, neither of which were available. Nonetheless, it was a good trip. I picked up a bottle of DFH Red & White (an oak aged, blended wit beer with pinot noir juice added), Lefthand Warrior IPA (a fresh hopped IIPA), Russian River Blind Pig IPA, Lost Abbey Red Barn Ale (a farmhouse ale), and two bottles of Avery Samael's (oak aged english strong ale; bottled in April 2008). I'll probably try and pick up another bottle or two of the last one for the "cellar".

Not a bad haul.

[devildeac]

Now you'll have to find some DFH Black and Blue. I've never tasted it but I think it is a black raspberry and blueberry beer but I'd look at their web site first.

[devildeac]

Forgot one from a couple weeks ago: French Broad Brewing Company Wee Heavy-er. A well done representative of the scotch ale variety tasted during our Asheville trip. Deep brown with a hint of smokiness, lots of maltiness/toffee or dark caramel flavors with a bit of hop bite. Quite smooth overall. Matched nicely with pan-seared scallops with a balsamic vinagrette drizzle and a vegetable ratatouille. 7% ABV. Reminded me quite a bit of CB&B's scotch ale from Brunchgate. That's quite a compliment, too.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Forgot one from a couple weeks ago: French Broad Brewing Company Wee Heavy-er. A well done representative of the scotch ale variety tasted during our Asheville trip. Deep brown with a hint of smokiness, lots of maltiness/toffee or dark caramel flavors with a bit of hop bite. Quite smooth overall. Matched nicely with pan-seared scallops with a balsamic vinagrette drizzle and a vegetable ratatouille. 7% ABV. Reminded me quite a bit of CB&B's scotch ale from Brunchgate. That's quite a compliment, too.
Thanks and I don't think I've had any of their brews, I'll have to keep my eye out. I wonder how far east they distribute.

[Mr Blue Devil]

LOVE this stuff, but it will kick your bottom area of your body that you use to sit on.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oFbn7BDD4zg/SKy24fH50VI/AAAAAAAAAJc/4qhL7Tg3RGo/s400/DSCN0167.JPG

[rockymtn devil]

LOVE this stuff, but it will kick your I'm a real wanker for saying this.I'm a real wanker for saying this.I'm a real wanker for saying this.I'm a real wanker for saying this.I'm a real wanker for saying this.!!!

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oFbn7BDD4zg/SKy24fH50VI/AAAAAAAAAJc/4qhL7Tg3RGo/s400/DSCN0167.JPG

Not to hijack this thread (is that possible 2,000+ posts in?) but isn't the word "wanker" worse than the word it replaced in Mr. Blue Devil's post? Yes, the word than can also mean a type of equine should be filtered. But "wanker" can mean something that is even more inappropriate.

[Mr Blue Devil]

Not to hijack this thread (is that possible 2,000+ posts in?) but isn't the word "wanker" worse than the word it replaced in Mr. Blue Devil's post? Yes, the word than can also mean a type of equine should be filtered. But "wanker" can mean something that is even more inappropriate.

Wow, I got that for editing the bad word with a $ $?

[rockymtn devil]

Tonight calls for something stiff, so I poured a glass of Samael's into a double old fashioned glass and am sipping while going between DBR and a book. If not for this beer, I'd be drinking Bulleit because nothing else in my fridge was going to cut it.

This beer is 2008 vintage, and was bottled in April of last year. Surprisingly, it's still very boozy on the nose. In addition to the alcohol smell, it has heavy notes of vanilla, butter, and apple. The flavor is very rich and creamy with lots of caramel and an acidic, cidery flavor. It also completely covers your mouth and lingers for a long while. It reminds me of a nice old country chardonnay--oaky and rich. The flavors are complex (and there's a lot I can't pick out) right now, but I imagine this beer will be fantastic as it mellows. ABV is over 15%.

[devildeac]

I had a Blasphemy tonight. Think about the implications of that one:(:o.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

At the Denver International Airport again, but this time have only a 45 minute layover between flights. Just enough time to return to the Rock Bottom and have another Molly's Titanic, which I am doing right now! Same review as last Friday. :D

[DukePA]

Oh, had a couple of Corona's last night at a Mexican restaurant here, but I'll skip the review. :)

There's a "ychh, beer" thread for that:o. (jk folks, I know there is a time a place for light lagers and lawnmower beers...)[/QUOTE]

Do I get kicked out of the Ymmmm Beer thread for loving Corona Light? 'Cause I luuuuuuv Corona Light :D !

[CameronBornAndBred]

'Cause I luuuuuuv Corona Light :D !
Grant Hill luuuuuuvs Corona Light!

[bluebear]

My local source had a nice stash of this collaboration between Stone-Mikkeller-Alesmith in 12oz bottles. As a big fan of Stone and tripels, I picked up 5 of them.. Not a bad beer but not the best tripel I've ever had. Pours a very pale orange color..Taste was good but very dry compared to other tripels...bit hoppy. Sounds like a limited edition brew so I'm glad i got to try it but I won't be rushing to the store to be the rest of their stock..

http://beernews.org/2008/07/belgian-style-triple-ale-first-look-at-stone-mikkeller-alesmith-collaboration/

[CathyCA]

There's a "ychh, beer" thread for that:o. (jk folks, I know there is a time a place for light lagers and lawnmower beers...)

Do I get kicked out of the Ymmmm Beer thread for loving Corona Light? 'Cause I luuuuuuv Corona Light :D ![/QUOTE]

I think we need to start a thread for "grocery store beer."

I <3 Corona Extra. It is not a thick or chunky beer.

[devildeac]

Do I get kicked out of the Ymmmm Beer thread for loving Corona Light? 'Cause I luuuuuuv Corona Light :D !

I think we need to start a thread for "grocery store beer."

I <3 Corona Extra. It is not a thick or chunky beer.[/QUOTE]

Some of us might take this under consideration...:rolleyes:

[devildeac]

Blasphemy-Weyerbacher Brewing Company-Their Quad offering aged in oak/whiskey barrels. I know a tripple but can't figure out how you ferment an ale 4 times:confused:. Brownish-orange in color with some typical elements of a tripple (dark fruit). Tons of maltiness, mild hop presence and woody/oaky with hints of vanilla and orange peel. A mild whiskey taste in the finish. IBU not known but probably 60-70 range. 11% ABV so this was a bomber divided over 2 nights. I am convinced I have found an east coast rival for the Avery folks:D. Are you reading, RMD?;)

[DevilAlumna]

Have people in this thread been drinking so much that they can't figure out how to keep quotes working?...

[devildeac]

Have people in this thread been drinking so much that they can't figure out how to keep quotes working?...

I was following CathyCA's lead. Pretty disorganized, eh?:o

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I've got a surprise for you tonight. ;)

[devildeac]

I've got a surprise for you tonight. ;)

Hmm...

He went through the Denver airport...

Something NB or Avery...

He just returned from LA (not Lower Advance)...

Something Green Flash...

[ohioguy2]

We ate at an Italian place last evening here in the great northwestern part of Ohio. The waiter suggested a Peroni (?) as a beer choice. I went along with it. It was served very cold in an iced over glass. A very pale looking beer, very little head, and not a lot of flavor. If I were mowing my lawn in Rome, this would be a great beer to cool off with, but not so much for anything else. BTW, I do not own a home in Rome.:(

[devildeac]

We ate at an Italian place last evening here in the great northwestern part of Ohio. The waiter suggested a Peroni (?) as a beer choice. I went along with it. It was served very cold in an iced over glass. A very pale looking beer, very little head, and not a lot of flavor. If I were mowing my lawn in Rome, this would be a great beer to cool off with, but not so much for anything else. BTW, I do not own a home in Rome.:(

I've had a Moretti and a Peroni. Doppel style. In Italy. I would have gone with a glass of chianti or pinot grigio:o.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I've got a surprise for you tonight. ;)


Hmm...

He went through the Denver airport...

Something NB or Avery...

He just returned from LA (not Lower Advance)...

Something Green Flash...

Bzzzzz. WRONG!

The "something" may have come through LA, but did not originate in LA :D Nor Denver :D:D

[rockymtn devil]

Blasphemy-Weyerbacher Brewing Company-Their Quad offering aged in oak/whiskey barrels. I know a tripple but can't figure out how you ferment an ale 4 times:confused:. Brownish-orange in color with some typical elements of a tripple (dark fruit). Tons of maltiness, mild hop presence and woody/oaky with hints of vanilla and orange peel. A mild whiskey taste in the finish. IBU not known but probably 60-70 range. 11% ABV so this was a bomber divided over 2 nights. I am convinced I have found an east coast rival for the Avery folks:D. Are you reading, RMD?;)

I've looked and Weyerbacher does distribute to Ohio so when I'm there in a few weeks I'll hopefully be able to pick up a bomber or two.

The only quad I've ever had is--as your post would indicate--Avery's The Reverend. It's one of my least favorite of theirs but I can't put my finger on why. Maybe Blasphemy can change my opinion of the style.

[CameronBornAndBred]

During our after-Miami-game adventures at DevilDeac's house, Ozzie gifted us with a large bottle of Duvel. One of the companies he does business with had passed out bottles of French wine to everyone, but they had a heads up that he preferred the better alcoholic beverage and gave him the bottle which he graciously shared with us. It is a top notch Belgian ale, comparable in quality only to Chimay. From what I remember it had a nice soft head with great retention, properly bottled with cork and not a cap. A very light golden color, a little bitter, and so slightly fruity. Up there in the alcohol content too.
Right now I'm enjoying one of my favorite ales of all time, Ommegang's Abbey Ale. I've reviewed it here before. I've just noticed on the side of the label it says "Part of the Duvel family of fine ales". On each brewer's site, ommegang.com (http://ommegang.com/) and duvelusa.com (http://www.duvelusa.com/), there is no mention of the other. I haven't found the tie noted in Google searches either. Anyone know how the two are related?

[CameronBornAndBred]

DD provided the dessert last night. We had several wonderful after hours beverages to choose from, notably cl15876's chocolatinis and caramel appletinis. But since this is Ymm, beer, we have to stay on topic. Devildeac showed us all what the famous (or infamous) beer float is about, and I'm sold. Based with Brooklyn Brewery's excellent (but not for everyone) Black Chocolate Stout, holding in suspension vanilla ice cream. Once the ice cream had had a chance to settle out and mix into the beer, this treat was a pleasant surprise. The beer is the key ingredient. I'm pretty sure it would not work nearly as well in a glass of Corona, so I'd suggest any quality dark beer. I bet the ice cream would go great in a Saranac Caramel porter. (One of my favorite beers.) The BB Black Chocolate was a good choice, over 10% abv, sharp on the toungue, contrasted well by the smooth, cold ice cream. With the ice cream mixed in well, it develops a deep frothy brown color, would be excellent sipped on the couch in front of the tv watching a movie. Highly recommended dessert, experiment and make your own recipe!

[OZZIE4DUKE]

DD provided the dessert last night. We had several wonderful after hours beverages to choose from, notably cl15876's chocolatinis and caramel appletinis. But since this is Ymm, beer, we have to stay on topic. Devildeac showed us all what the famous (or infamous) beer float is about, and I'm sold. Based with Brooklyn Brewery's excellent (but not for everyone) Black Chocolate Stout, holding in suspension vanilla ice cream. Once the ice cream had had a chance to settle out and mix into the beer, this treat was a pleasant surprise. The beer is the key ingredient. I'm pretty sure it would not work nearly as well in a glass of Corona, so I'd suggest any quality dark beer. I bet the ice cream would go great in a Saranac Caramel porter. (One of my favorite beers.) The BB Black Chocolate was a good choice, over 10% abv, sharp on the toungue, contrasted well by the smooth, cold ice cream. With the ice cream mixed in well, it develops a deep frothy brown color, would be excellent sipped on the couch in front of the tv watching a movie. Highly recommended dessert, experiment and make your own recipe!
I'm glad you and DD enjoyed the Duvel. It was a bit bitter for my taste.

I loved the beer float! I would think that a Mic Dark would also work well for this.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I loved the beer float! I would think that a Mic Dark would also work well for this.
For a lager, I bet you are right. And chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla would be tasty too.

[bluebear]

During our after-Miami-game adventures at DevilDeac's house, Ozzie gifted us with a large bottle of Duvel. One of the companies he does business with had passed out bottles of French wine to everyone, but they had a heads up that he preferred the better alcoholic beverage and gave him the bottle which he graciously shared with us. It is a top notch Belgian ale, comparable in quality only to Chimay. From what I remember it had a nice soft head with great retention, properly bottled with cork and not a cap. A very light golden color, a little bitter, and so slightly fruity. Up there in the alcohol content too.
Right now I'm enjoying one of my favorite ales of all time, Ommegang's Abbey Ale. I've reviewed it here before. I've just noticed on the side of the label it says "Part of the Duvel family of fine ales". On each brewer's site, ommegang.com (http://ommegang.com/) and duvelusa.com (http://www.duvelusa.com/), there is no mention of the other. I haven't found the tie noted in Google searches either. Anyone know how the two are related?

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3469/is_6_54/ai_98124081

Ommegang is a great ale..as is Hennepin. I found a store nearby that sells each in 12oz (or maybe 11.2) 4 packs which works out better for me on an average night--and following morning..

[CameronBornAndBred]

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3469/is_6_54/ai_98124081

Ommegang is a great ale..as is Hennepin. I found a store nearby that sells each in 12oz (or maybe 11.2) 4 packs which works out better for me on an average night--and following morning..
Thanks BB, good read at that link too.

[devildeac]

During our after-Miami-game adventures at DevilDeac's house, Ozzie gifted us with a large bottle of Duvel. One of the companies he does business with had passed out bottles of French wine to everyone, but they had a heads up that he preferred the better alcoholic beverage and gave him the bottle which he graciously shared with us. It is a top notch Belgian ale, comparable in quality only to Chimay. From what I remember it had a nice soft head with great retention, properly bottled with cork and not a cap. A very light golden color, a little bitter, and so slightly fruity. Up there in the alcohol content too.
Right now I'm enjoying one of my favorite ales of all time, Ommegang's Abbey Ale. I've reviewed it here before. I've just noticed on the side of the label it says "Part of the Duvel family of fine ales". On each brewer's site, ommegang.com (http://ommegang.com/) and duvelusa.com (http://www.duvelusa.com/), there is no mention of the other. I haven't found the tie noted in Google searches either. Anyone know how the two are related?

I am pretty sure Duvel (Moortgat?) purchased the Ommegang brewery several years ago. Try their Three Philosophers and Rare Vos, too. Excellent representations of the true Belgian style ales.

[rockymtn devil]

Had a glass of this last night and will probably have another tonight. It's styled as a blended wheat beer with pinot noir juice added. 11% of the beer is aged in pinot noir barrels, while the remaining 89% in oak barrel staves. After the aging process, the two batches are blended and bottled. It sounds gimmicky, but, then again, I'm not a brewmaster.

I poured the beer into a white wine glass, which practically eliminates any head, but is probably the best glassware choice. It smells exactly like a wheat beer--lots of grass, orange, and coriander. The flavor starts like a normal wheat, but finishes like a pinot noir. It's very fruity and jammy (blackberries and raspberries, especially). Also, this another DFH beer that isn't too boozy. In fact, the alcohol (over 10%) is well hidden.

[devildeac]

Schlafly Reserve 2007 Barleywine-finally enjoyed this outstanding brew after a year in the cellar. Got another one over the Christmas season from the Lavabe's which I'll enjoy next year.

Fairly typical barleywine with tons of hops but the maltiness wins with the pleasant tastes of candy and brown sugar flavors. The aroma and palate of dried oranges and apricots are hinted at with a mild oaky/woody finish as this has been aged in oak whiskey barrels. 750 ml bottle. It is 10.2% ABV so this was a cork and finish the 2nd night beverage. Sip this one as a dessert at slightly chilled temps from a brandy snifter, by itself or perhaps with some candied pecans.

[ArnieMc]

I finally made it to our Total Wine store for a bunch of interesting beer. The first was a bomber of Olde GnarlyWine from Lagunitas Brewing. My girlfriend and I sipped it over an hour or so starting at refrigerator temperature trying to identify all the flavors. Cold, it has an amazing combination of tastes including sweet malt, fruits (orange and raisins), citrus, floral, and a fairly bitter hop finish. Once it warmed up a little, you get an almost overwhelming bready/cookie dough impression with no floral, citrus or bitterness. A very interesting brew.

[devildeac]

For all you beer and/or chocolate lovers out there, in addition to recent attendees at the winter Brunchgate dinner and dessert/drink evening, I present:

"Nothing says love like chocolate and beer"

http://www.indyweek.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A279839

Enjoy:D

My favorite part is the 3rd paragraph from the end...

[CameronBornAndBred]

Pre Duke-unc Women's game, drinking Heavy Seas Peg Leg Imperial Stout. A DD trade, this is a good light stout. Bitter, nice chocolate tones, a slight hint of raisin. Very low head, great black color. Good one to watch Carolina Go To Hell. 8%ABV GO DUKE!!!

[bluebear]

Any tips for the best way to store unfinished bombers or 750mls? Just cork them in stick them in the fridge? With a new baby, I've been shying away from buying many big beers but my local source has so many good options right now..

[rockymtn devil]

Any tips for the best way to store unfinished bombers or 750mls? Just cork them in stick them in the fridge? With a new baby, I've been shying away from buying many big beers but my local source has so many good options right now..

Cork and fridge. They should last another day or two. If the beer is flat when you pour it, you know it didn't survive.

[devildeac]

Any tips for the best way to store unfinished bombers or 750mls? Just cork them in stick them in the fridge? With a new baby, I've been shying away from buying many big beers but my local source has so many good options right now..

Agree with RMD in his post, too. Use an old wine cork or invest in a vacuum wine sealer, which I have not done yet. I always plan to finish the bottle the next night. They don't have as much head but are generally OK the next night.

[devildeac]

I finally made it to our Total Wine store for a bunch of interesting beer. The first was a bomber of Olde GnarlyWine from Lagunitas Brewing. My girlfriend and I sipped it over an hour or so starting at refrigerator temperature trying to identify all the flavors. Cold, it has an amazing combination of tastes including sweet malt, fruits (orange and raisins), citrus, floral, and a fairly bitter hop finish. Once it warmed up a little, you get an almost overwhelming bready/cookie dough impression with no floral, citrus or bitterness. A very interesting brew.

I'll have to look for this one.

[devildeac]

I also posted a link in #2058 to a Valentine's/beer/chocolate article from The Independent written by Julie Johnson who I believe is editor for All About Beer magazine and has been for several years. Hopefully it gives some credibility to my "outrageous" claims that dark brews make nice dessert beverages, either by themselves, or with some traditional desserts.;)

[Rogue]

Falcon Beer ( hint, he more falcon heads on the beer, the stronger it is,, 1 min, 4 max. ) Swedish.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S2VUCdbhg0

My personal fav,, St Pauli Girl , ya never forget your first girl

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF5dCtzR-vw

[devildeac]

I'm glad you and DD enjoyed the Duvel. It was a bit bitter for my taste.

I loved the beer float! I would think that a Mic Dark would also work well for this.

Alert the media!

Not only did Ozzie enjoy the 4 ounce sample beer float I made for him (thinking he was humoring me all along), he politely asked for another and I obliged. Miracles never cease:rolleyes:.

I think a couple other variations might be an oatmeal stout or chocolate stout (actually brewed with chocolate), both of which would be lower ABV than the BBCS. Or, using a chocolate or coffee ice cream for the "float." See my link to the Independent for some other thoughts about beer, chocolate and dessert.

[devildeac]

During our after-Miami-game adventures at DevilDeac's house, Ozzie gifted us with a large bottle of Duvel. One of the companies he does business with had passed out bottles of French wine to everyone, but they had a heads up that he preferred the better alcoholic beverage and gave him the bottle which he graciously shared with us. It is a top notch Belgian ale, comparable in quality only to Chimay. From what I remember it had a nice soft head with great retention, properly bottled with cork and not a cap. A very light golden color, a little bitter, and so slightly fruity. Up there in the alcohol content too.
Right now I'm enjoying one of my favorite ales of all time, Ommegang's Abbey Ale. I've reviewed it here before. I've just noticed on the side of the label it says "Part of the Duvel family of fine ales". On each brewer's site, ommegang.com (http://ommegang.com/) and duvelusa.com (http://www.duvelusa.com/), there is no mention of the other. I haven't found the tie noted in Google searches either. Anyone know how the two are related?

I also enjoyed sharing the Duvel that Ozzie brought to the dessert gathering.

Duvel is probably the Belgian golden ale by which all others are judged, in addition to the Chimay series. This one is slightly cloudy (probably some wheat malt) and pours with the classic "Belgian lace" (or fizz as I believe DA likes to say;)) which coats the glass (ideally a goblet) as you sip your way through the brew. A bit of orange peel and coriander greet your taste buds throughout the beverage. A hint of black pepper spiciness is present, too. I would serve it lighly chilled with a soft cheese or hard fruits like apples or pears. Don't drink too many of these either as they are 9% ABV. They are also about $4.50 for a 33 cl bottle. Duke fans really should like this ale, as, after all, do you know what Duvel means?:D

[ohioguy2]

The Yard House in San Diego serves a beer float--Chocolate Stout with vanilla ice cream--I believe around 6 or 7 bucks--I did not try it--did not want to waste a beer--after dinner we went to Giardelli's and had a malt.:)

[devildeac]

The Yard House in San Diego serves a beer float--Chocolate Stout with vanilla ice cream--I believe around 6 or 7 bucks--I did not try it--did not want to waste a beer--after dinner we went to Giardelli's and had a malt.:)

I'm not sure I'd do it at a restaurant either. But seriously, take 1 bottle out of your 6 pack of Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout/Bison Chocolate Stout/Ft. Collins Chocolate Stout and pour 6 ounces into a pint glass and add a scoop of Breyer's/Edy's Vanilla or Chocolate ice cream and sip on it/dip it with a spoon for 30 minutes or so. That way, you potentially only waste 1/2 a beer and a single scoop of good ice cream. Watch for the beer to foam a bit excessively after the ice cream is added. I never thought I'd be advocating this.;)

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Alert the media!

Not only did Ozzie enjoy the 4 ounce sample beer float I made for him (thinking he was humoring me all along), he politely asked for another and I obliged. Miracles never cease:rolleyes:.

I like most things that are fattening :eek::cool::D

[ohioguy2]

I'm not sure I'd do it at a restaurant either. But seriously, take 1 bottle out of your 6 pack of Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout/Bison Chocolate Stout/Ft. Collins Chocolate Stout and pour 6 ounces into a pint glass and add a scoop of Breyer's/Edy's Vanilla or Chocolate ice cream and sip on it/dip it with a spoon for 30 minutes or so. That way, you potentially only waste 1/2 a beer and a single scoop of good ice cream. Watch for the beer to foam a bit excessively after the ice cream is added. I never thought I'd be advocating this.;)

The key phrase here is "only waste". Just joking--I am almost ready to try this concoction that seems like I am making "potentially" poor use of two good products.

[ohioguy2]

OK--my lovely wife sent me after grocery items. I took a wrong turn in the store and ended up in the beer aisle. I know, she didn't believe me either. I bought Ft. Collins Chocolate Stout. My next wrong turn sent me along,you guessed it, the ice cream freezers. I'll try it tonight or soon and report back;)

[devildeac]

OK--my lovely wife sent me after grocery items. I took a wrong turn in the store and ended up in the beer aisle. I know, she didn't believe me either. I bought Ft. Collins Chocolate Stout. My next wrong turn sent me along,you guessed it, the ice cream freezers. I'll try it tonight or soon and report back;)

Awaiting your review to see if you become one of the converts along with Tilly, Ozzie, cl15876, among thousands (well, maybe a handful:o)) of others...

[CameronBornAndBred]

Harris Teeter has opened 2 blocks away from my office today. First (and only) stop on the way home will be to check out their beer aisle. I hear they have Chimay, and eagerly await to see what else they carry. I also get to try my "Original Recipe" (but not very originally named" ale tonight while watching the game. I had one Monday night after 4 days in the bottle (and 3 weeks in the fermenter) and it was surprisingly ready to drink. It was also way tasty. Good things happen at the right time for reasons, so I sense continued good things after 9PM tontight.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Aaaaaaaaaaah...
How nice, HT had all three Chimays, Ommegang Abbey and Three Philosphers, plus a couple others that looked good. Since it's been awhile that I've enjoyed a Three, and in honor of the team having luck with them tonight, that's what I picked up. (Wish I had goblets, but I've got a nice pint sized pilsner glass that will work well). They had a great selection, and I was torn on what 6 pack to get. I chose Saranac's seasonal Irish Red Ale, and now wish I hadn't. It's ok, but stacked up against it, my homebrew red was much better. I guess that's good for me, but when I buy beer I want to drink something to strive for in matching quality and taste. Anyways...I win.

[cl15876]

Alert the media!

Not only did Ozzie enjoy the 4 ounce sample beer float I made for him (thinking he was humoring me all along), he politely asked for another and I obliged. Miracles never cease:rolleyes:....





I like most things that are fattening :cool::D

DD - I have to concur with Ozzie, that was the first time I've ever had a beer float and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was delicious! :D

[cl15876]

Aaaaaaaaaaah...
How nice, HT had all three Chimays, Ommegang Abbey and Three Philosphers, plus a couple others that looked good. Since it's been awhile that I've enjoyed a Three, and in honor of the team having luck with them tonight, that's what I picked up. (Wish I had goblets, but I've got a nice pint sized pilsner glass that will work well). They had a great selection, and I was torn on what 6 pack to get. I chose Saranac's seasonal Irish Red Ale, and now wish I hadn't. It's ok, but stacked up against it, my homebrew red was much better. I guess that's good for me, but when I buy beer I want to drink something to strive for in matching quality and taste. Anyways...I win.

CB&B - I think they're DD's (aka Twinkle Toes') favorite! I haven't had the opportunity to taste, but told CathyCA we will pick some up and do some taste testing! I love various beer varieties and can't wait to taste these!

Catch you on snrubchat if not before!

LGD!!!

[cl15876]

I like most things that are fattening :eek::cool::D

That goes double for me!!! :p

[DukePA]

Awaiting your review to see if you become one of the converts along with Tilly, Ozzie, cl15876, among thousands (well, maybe a handful:o)) of others...

Me too!! I loved the little beer float sample I tried. Ymmmm, beer floats :D

[rockymtn devil]

Um, what beer best helps soothe Psycho T never losing in Cameron :(

[devildeac]

Um, what beer best helps soothe Psycho T never losing in Cameron :(

try to find the most bitter beer in America:(

[rockymtn devil]

try to find the most bitter beer in America:(

Ahh, a barleywine he says :)

To be fair, Duke has never had an answer for TH. I mean, God made man by mixing Hansbrough sweat with clay. How can we compete with that? Barleywine it is.

[devildeac]

Ahh, a barleywine he says :)

To be fair, Duke has never had an answer for TH. I mean, God made man by mixing Hansbrough sweat with clay. How can we compete with that? Barleywine it is.

I'd try to find a bottle of Alimony Ale, if it is still brewed. The writing on the bottle described it as the "bitterest beer in America." Some guy formulated the recipe after a nasty divorce:(.

[devildeac]

Ahh, a barleywine he says :)

To be fair, Duke has never had an answer for TH. I mean, God made man by mixing Hansbrough sweat with clay. How can we compete with that? Barleywine it is.

We needed a PG tonight...

[pamtar]

I'm sure you guys have already covered it but I just discovered these guys (http://www.mendobrew.com/home.html). Love the Red Tail Ale. The White Owl IPA is good. Steer clear of the Eye of the Hawk Select Ale.

[CathyCA]

Any tips for the best way to store unfinished bombers or 750mls? Just cork them in stick them in the fridge? With a new baby, I've been shying away from buying many big beers but my local source has so many good options right now..

Your best solution is to pump and dump.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I'm sure you guys have already covered it but I just discovered these guys (http://www.mendobrew.com/home.html). Love the Red Tail Ale. The White Owl IPA is good. Steer clear of the Eye of the Hawk Select Ale.
I actually like the Eye of the Hawk. It's their highest ABV I believe. (8%)

[devildeac]

I actually like the Eye of the Hawk. It's their highest ABV I believe. (8%)

Agreed. One of my favorite west coast brews. The anniversary ale is even better and a bit higher ABV at 9%, IIRC.

[devildeac]

Oh, why not start a little imperial series here. 1st up is Big Hoppy Monster, an imperial red ale from the Terrapin Beer Company in Athens, Georgia. BUT, wait! It's brewed by Frederick Brewing Company in Frederick, MD. Yea, I know, contract brewing but what a strange combination of names/places. If I hadn't read the label, I would have thought this was an IPA. Grassy, piney hop nose/taste with citrus zestiness but it is well-balanced by a generous amount of malt, I'd guess a mixture of caramel and other malts. Fairly smooth. It has a faint reminder of Killian's or the Mishawaka red ales with a bit of sweetness. As the bottle says: Watch Out! This Monster Bites! And at 8.3% ABV, they are correct. Not sure I've ever had an IRA but this one would be great with ribs/burgers or other grilling/cookout fare. Saving one each for CB&B and Lavabe. I think:o.;)

[Lavabe]

Looks like Sweetwater found a distributor in Raleigh/Durham, Greensboro, and Charlotte.

Of course, we can't mention some of the names of their brews on the DBR.;)

[CameronBornAndBred]

Saving one each for CB&B and Lavabe. I think:o.;)
Sounds good to me. It's been a loooong time since I had a Terrapin. The hippie in me always reaches for one, but the budgeting lord of the wallet often throws a diving block of prevention. I love the imperial push. I'll have to see if I can contribute sometime this weekend. (Going to brew shop tomorrow, besides supplies, he has a pretty good selection of 6 packs.

[CameronBornAndBred]

In honor of just having a really awesome Friday the 13th, I'm going to go start Saturday the 14th celebrating in the bath tub with a Victory Old Horizontal. Excellent days call for excellent beers. Beats the hell out of Calgon.

[devildeac]

Looks like Sweetwater found a distributor in Raleigh/Durham, Greensboro, and Charlotte.

Of course, we can't mention some of the names of their brews on the DBR.;)

Go ahead, I Double Dog Pale Ale dare you...

[devildeac]

Imperial brew #2. Paging RMD. I may have found a pilsner that will tickle your palate. Sam Adams Imperial Pilsner. Loaded with Hallertau hops which are a bit sprucey and very floral. Really no citrus in this one. If I hadn't read the label, I would have sworn IPA here. This one would be really a nice beverage with grilled chicken/specialty chicken dishes, grilled fish/seafood entrees. Lavabe and CB&B will also find one of these in their Easter baskets:D. 8.1% ABV.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Got a lot of tasting done today, I love Harris Teeter's selection. First up is Sierra's Bigfoot 2009. This has been reviewed before, and is a favorite of Devildeac. I was happy to see they stock 6 packs. A classic sipper, this barleywine style ale has a great color top and bottom. A rich dark amber, pretty to look at held up to the light, the head is a nice soft tan foam, with good retention as it holds the sides of the glass. High ABV, it has a nice fruity flavor, reminscent of a merlot wine. I'll see how long I can hold on to one of them, but as long as they sell 6 packs nearby, I'm not giving good odds on the shelf life in my house.

[DukePA]

bumpity, bump, bump, bump. Beeeeeerrrrr, it's what's for supper : )

[bluebear]

Got a lot of tasting done today, I love Harris Teeter's selection. First up is Sierra's Bigfoot 2009. This has been reviewed before, and is a favorite of Devildeac. I was happy to see they stock 6 packs. A classic sipper, this barleywine style ale has a great color top and bottom. A rich dark amber, pretty to look at held up to the light, the head is a nice soft tan foam, with good retention as it holds the sides of the glass. High ABV, it has a nice fruity flavor, reminscent of a merlot wine. I'll see how long I can hold on to one of them, but as long as they sell 6 packs nearby, I'm not giving good odds on the shelf life in my house.

I had one of these over the weekend as well and thought it was excellent..a little less bitter than other barleywines that I've had recently (old Ruffian)..might pick up a few more..
I also had Founders Double Trouble which is a very nice Imperial Pale Ale..Didn't like it as much as DFH 90 minute but still very good. If the store keeps it in stock, I'll probably make it a spring regular..

[devildeac]

Imperial #3-a few days late: 90 Minute IPA from the folks at DFH. They advertise on the bottle that it is the best IPA in America, or something like that. Darn good stuff. Think I reviewed one last year but it's tasty enough to review one from 2009 also. Just about all the things you'd expect from an IIPA. Massive hop presence with an IBU of about 90, IIRC. Good malt balance. Grapefruity and a bit sprucey. 9% ABV so you could enjoy this in a pint glass or a snifter. $8.99 for a 4 pack but a nice treat for yourself or a friend or two. I'll save one of these for CB&B if he can't find one at Harris Teeter at the coast-maybe:o:p;).

[bluebear]

Great Divide Oak Aged Yeti Stout--Had one of these last night and it was fantastic..Black, thick and very smooth. Chocolaty and a bit sweet but not in an alcohol way (DHF world wide stout)..Could be the best imperial stout I've tried to date...

[devildeac]

Morehead City Alt Bier-aka CB&B's homebrew of the old German style-Nicely done. A bit darker than most alt biers but just as toasty and bready and just as sweet/malty. Not much bite but it's not supposed to have much bitterness.
Nice combination with a sammich or some cheese (mild) and crackers. Modest ABV-I'd guess about 5%. I'll save one for 30-60 days from now and, yes, one for Lavabe during our next beer exchange.:D

[ArnieMc]

Are you into sour cherries? If so, this is the brew for you.

Smuttynose Hanami Ale pours reddish brown so I was expecting malt. Boy was I wrong! This is a really strange beer. It's very sour with cherry and biscuit flavors. If you like fruit beers, especially sour ones, give it a try. Otherwise, I would pass on it. There were three in the Smuttynose variety pack. I have to figure out how to get rid of the other two.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Are you into sour cherries? If so, this is the brew for you.

Smuttynose Hanami Ale pours reddish brown so I was expecting malt. Boy was I wrong! This is a really strange beer. It's very sour with cherry and biscuit flavors. If you like fruit beers, especially sour ones, give it a try. Otherwise, I would pass on it. There were three in the Smuttynose variety pack. I have to figure out how to get rid of the other two.
What were the other offerings?

[ArnieMc]

What were the other offerings?Shoals Pale Ale, Smuttynose IPA and Old Brown Dog Ale. The only one I have had is the Old Brown Dog. It's a very good but relatively banal English brown ale with good malt, but low hops and carbonation, and no unusual flavors.

[devildeac]

CB&B's Smoky IPA-quite in interesting creation, in the good sense. Modest hops with spruce and pine notes-the smokiness is very faint/slightly peat-like. Nice malt balance. Grill some fish with this or sip with mild cheeses. If you have any leftovers, I'll have another, please. You can enjoy more than one of these 'cuz I'd guess about 6% ABV. Saving one for Lavabe, of course:D.

[captmojo]

You've always been fond of my avatars. :D

[devildeac]

CB&C's Original Recipe-I think it tastes most like an American Pale Ale. Deep golden color, floral and very mild hop presence. Good balance with I'd guess crystal malt. Very pleasant taste and aroma. Mild. I'd guess about 5% ABV. A good session brew. Three are left in the 12 pack sampler so I'll enjoy another in 30-60 days and save one for Lavabe, too.

[CameronBornAndBred]

CB&C's Original Recipe-I think it tastes most like an American Pale Ale. Deep golden color, floral and very mild hop presence. Good balance with I'd guess crystal malt. Very pleasant taste and aroma. Mild. I'd guess about 5% ABV. A good session brew. Three are left in the 12 pack sampler so I'll enjoy another in 30-60 days and save one for Lavabe, too.
Glad you enjoyed that one. I blind picked the yeast, which is a little different than some of the more traditional ones I've gone with. The one I chose adds that peppery flavor to the ale. I was a bit leary before tasting, but I like it for this brew.

[ohioguy2]

Don't pour the beer over the ice cream. Add the ice cream to the beer. I prefer to stir my ice cream and blend it with the beer, tastes better.
^^ A quote from Tilly

Does this make it a beer "cooler"?

I had to move this from the hotel tipping thread to here.

[TillyGalore]

Don't pour the beer over the ice cream. Add the ice cream to the beer. I prefer to stir my ice cream and blend it with the beer, tastes better.
^^ A quote from Tilly

Does this make it a beer "cooler"?

I had to move this from the hotel tipping thread to here.

Lol. I prefer it that way as the beer tastes better. The Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout is a bit bitter for this gal, hence I drank it while eating a delicious chocolate chip cookie from Whole Foods. The ice cream countered the bitterness and made for a sweeter tasting beer. :D

[devildeac]

Don't pour the beer over the ice cream. Add the ice cream to the beer. I prefer to stir my ice cream and blend it with the beer, tastes better.
^^ A quote from Tilly

Does this make it a beer "cooler"?

I had to move this from the hotel tipping thread to here.

Well....

Did you have your beer float after all your detours through the grocery store last week?;)

[devildeac]

Lol. I prefer it that way as the beer tastes better. The Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout is a bit bitter for this gal, hence I drank it while eating a delicious chocolate chip cookie from Whole Foods. The ice cream countered the bitterness and made for a sweeter tasting beer. :D

A year or so ago, Lavabe and I found this to be a great combo-BBCS and homemade CCCs. Ymm, beer and ymm, cookies.

[DukePA's Mom]

Glad you enjoyed that one. I blind picked the yeast, which is a little different than some of the more traditional ones I've gone with. The one I chose adds that peppery flavor to the ale. I was a bit leary before tasting, but I like it for this brew.

I drank 1 last night & had the other tonight. Both were very good. Thank you so much. You make the best home brew I have ever had.

[ohioguy2]

Well....

Did you have your beer float after all your detours through the grocery store last week?;)

Not yet, but I am down to one chocolate beer in the fridge so I guess this will be the time. My target day is Friday evening after we go out to a fish fry sponsored by a local church. I guess you have noticed I am putting this off. :o

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Not yet, but I am down to one chocolate beer in the fridge so I guess this will be the time. My target day is Friday evening after we go out to a fish fry sponsored by a local church. I guess you have noticed I am putting this off. :o
A beer float is something to be anticipated! It is a treat, not something to be feared or avoided. :D

[ohioguy2]

A beer float is something to be anticipated! It is a treat, not something to be feared or avoided. :D

I am certain you will be right. A number of things I feared and avoided have turned out to be great--jumping off the "high board", marriage, etc. Not the colonoscopy though, that met my expectations.:rolleyes:

[allenmurray]

I am certain you will be right. A number of things I feared and avoided have turned out to be great--jumping off the "high board", marriage, etc. Not the colonoscopy though, that met my expectations.:rolleyes:

That post is the very definition of Too Much Information

[CameronBornAndBred]

I am certain you will be right. A number of things I feared and avoided have turned out to be great--jumping off the "high board", marriage, etc. Not the colonoscopy though, that met my expectations.:rolleyes:
Here's a toast. To quickly returning to "Ymm, beer" ramblings and the subject that bears it's name! Cheers.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I drank 1 last night & had the other tonight. Both were very good. Thank you so much. You make the best home brew I have ever had.
Very glad you enjoyed them. I'll be bringing at least one new brew with me when we come up for the unc women's game.

[ohioguy2]

I could not wait until Friday--I tried the beer float just a few minutes ago. Fort Collins Chocolate Stout and vanilla ice cream in a Duke mug. Beer first, then two scoops of ice cream. It foamed up a little, looked really good. My first sip was disappointingly bitter,--but--the first taste of ice cream I spooned out was very good, great in fact. After a little experimenting I concluded that all joking aside, the beer "cooler" was better to me than the float. The more the ice cream melted into the beer, the better I liked the entire concoction. I believe it would make a great summertime drink out on my deck.:)

[DukePA]

I could not wait until Friday--I tried the beer float just a few minutes ago. Fort Collins Chocolate Stout and vanilla ice cream in a Duke mug. Beer first, then two scoops of ice cream. It foamed up a little, looked really good. My first sip was disappointingly bitter,--but--the first taste of ice cream I spooned out was very good, great in fact. After a little experimenting I concluded that all joking aside, the beer "cooler" was better to me than the float. The more the ice cream melted into the beer, the better I liked the entire concoction. I believe it would make a great summertime drink out on my deck.:)

Would you mind if the LTE, OTB, YB folks hang out on your deck with you this summer :D! Ymmm, beer floats!

[CameronBornAndBred]

Would you mind if the LTE, OTB, YB folks hang out on your deck with you this summer :D! Ymmm, beer floats!
I do believe beer floats will become Brunchgate fare.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Oh, why not start a little imperial series here.
Here is my first addition to the imperial series. Samuel Adams Imperial White. (Fittingly, one of the "Imperial Series" from SA...says so right on the label.) This is a wheat beer with lots of alcohol, 10.3%ABV. Tons of body, it pours almost thick, but with almost no head. Deceptively billed as a white, the color is a deep gold, and like most wheat beers it is fairly cloudy. Very bitter, the fruity flavors bear out citrus notes with spices on top. I'm impressed by this ale, I'll be buying it again after I try the others in the series. (The store had an imperial double bock and imperial stout, not sure if it's just those three.) Comes in a 4 pack, and pricey, almost 10 bucks. But that's 1/2 the price of Chimay when you consider you get a total of 48 ounces instead of 25. One last note, the bottle suggests aging. I bet this would be really great in a year. I won't be finding out. I'll have to trade away to DD so he can cellar them for a later review.

[cl15876]

Would you mind if the LTE, OTB, YB folks hang out on your deck with you this summer :D! Ymmm, beer floats!

Can I come and enjoy? The beer float DD made for me was a woosh!!!! :D

[cl15876]

Here is my first addition to the imperial series. Samuel Adams Imperial White. (Fittingly, one of the "Imperial Series" from SA...says so right on the label.) This is a wheat beer with lots of alcohol, 10.3%ABV. Tons of body, it pours almost thick, but with almost no head. Deceptively billed as a white, the color is a deep gold, and like most wheat beers it is fairly cloudy. Very bitter, the fruity flavors bear out citrus notes with spices on top. I'm impressed by this ale, I'll be buying it again after I try the others in the series. (The store had an imperial double bock and imperial stout, not sure if it's just those three.) Comes in a 4 pack, and pricey, almost 10 bucks. But that's 1/2 the price of Chimay when you consider you get a total of 48 ounces instead of 25. One last note, the bottle suggests aging. I bet this would be really great in a year. I won't be finding out. I'll have to trade away to DD so he can cellar them for a later review.

I purchased the SA mix back in the summer which included the SA summer ale... I have to say that I like that one! I think there was also a boston ale (dark brew), which I also like very much! Yum, Yumm, Beer! :D the other variety wasn't bad, but who cares about taste after 2 or 3 good ones? :D :rolleyes:

[ohioguy2]

Would you mind if the LTE, OTB, YB folks hang out on your deck with you this summer :D! Ymmm, beer floats!

If you all make your way to Northwest Ohio, feel free to join me. Either that or join us in Seal Harbor, Maine as we vacation with our family late in July.

I really would like to get to a football game in Durham this next season.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I could not wait until Friday--I tried the beer float just a few minutes ago.... The more the ice cream melted into the beer, the better I liked the entire concoction. I believe it would make a great summertime drink out on my deck.:)
I told you! It is something to be anticipated! Beer-cream! :D

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Here is my first addition to the imperial series. Samuel Adams Imperial White.
I had a Sam Adams White draft at Ruby Tuesday's last week. It was their beer of the day so I ordered it. It was a little bitter for my taste. I finished it, but when I went there the other day, I ordered a Bud Light! :D

[CameronBornAndBred]

I had a Sam Adams White draft at Ruby Tuesday's last week. It was their beer of the day so I ordered it. It was a little bitter for my taste. I finished it, but when I went there the other day, I ordered a Bud Light! :D
Ahhh, but it's good to see you experimenting.:cool:

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Ahhh, but it's good to see you experimenting.:cool:
I've never been against experimenting, I just know what I like.

[devildeac]

I could not wait until Friday--I tried the beer float just a few minutes ago. Fort Collins Chocolate Stout and vanilla ice cream in a Duke mug. Beer first, then two scoops of ice cream. It foamed up a little, looked really good. My first sip was disappointingly bitter,--but--the first taste of ice cream I spooned out was very good, great in fact. After a little experimenting I concluded that all joking aside, the beer "cooler" was better to me than the float. The more the ice cream melted into the beer, the better I liked the entire concoction. I believe it would make a great summertime drink out on my deck.:)

Ahh, another convert;):D

[devildeac]

Here is my first addition to the imperial series. Samuel Adams Imperial White. (Fittingly, one of the "Imperial Series" from SA...says so right on the label.) This is a wheat beer with lots of alcohol, 10.3%ABV. Tons of body, it pours almost thick, but with almost no head. Deceptively billed as a white, the color is a deep gold, and like most wheat beers it is fairly cloudy. Very bitter, the fruity flavors bear out citrus notes with spices on top. I'm impressed by this ale, I'll be buying it again after I try the others in the series. (The store had an imperial double bock and imperial stout, not sure if it's just those three.) Comes in a 4 pack, and pricey, almost 10 bucks. But that's 1/2 the price of Chimay when you consider you get a total of 48 ounces instead of 25. One last note, the bottle suggests aging. I bet this would be really great in a year. I won't be finding out. I'll have to trade away to DD so he can cellar them for a later review.

Save one of each for me and I'll trade you the Imperial Pilsner, Imperial Red Ale and an Imperial Stout. Seriously.

[duketaylor]

Haven't been off-topic in a long time, but when beer's involved, hey, it's worth a gander. Ozzie will be surprised to know I'm a Bud Light Lime convert from Bud Light, not sure I'd want to dabble putting ice cream in it, but who knows. I'm working on one now before turning in, getting up at 5:45 and returning to work, only to get home, lubricate, in prep for crushing the Twerps tomorrow night. Thursday I'm off, the forecast is decent, so I'll try the new BLL cans on the golf course, to see if it serves as good a steering fluid as regular Bud Light;) Stay tuned, I'll answer Thursday night.

[DevilAlumna]

Haven't been off-topic in a long time, but when beer's involved, hey, it's worth a gander. Ozzie will be surprised to know I'm a Bud Light Lime convert from Bud Light, not sure I'd want to dabble putting ice cream in it, but who knows. I'm working on one now before turning in, getting up at 5:45 and returning to work, only to get home, lubricate, in prep for crushing the Twerps tomorrow night. Thursday I'm off, the forecast is decent, so I'll try the new BLL cans on the golf course, to see if it serves as good a steering fluid as regular Bud Light;) Stay tuned, I'll answer Thursday night.

Hmm, BLL posts are maybe left for the "Ycch, Beer" thread... :eek::D

Welcome to the beer gang, duketaylor - the OTB drinkers are a friendly bunch.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Ozzie will be surprised to know I'm a Bud Light Lime convert from Bud Light
I'm not surprised, that's what you ordered at the Millennium before the NC State game. IIRC, they didn't have it available. I've never tried it, but I do like lime in Mexican beers, like Tecate' or Corona, so why not! :D

[cl15876]

.... Ozzie will be surprised to know I'm a Bud Light Lime convert from Bud Light, ... I'm working on one now .....


... I've never tried it, but I do like lime in Mexican beers, like Tecate' or Corona, so why not! :D

Funny, last night I was drinking a Bud Light Lime (BLL) while reviewing this thread to see if anyone had talked about this brand yet, but I pooped out early after a long day. I was surprised to see this morning that someone else was doing the same thing and posted about it! :) What a small world, GMTA! I had been seeing BLL and wondering about it and finally this past weekend I tasted one for the first time. I had heard others give it mixed reviews, but was pleasantly surprised that it had a similar taste to a corona (probably the light) with a lime, however, it wasn't as heavy as the real corona with a lime, but would do in a pinch to quench the thirst! :)

[DukieInKansas]

If you all make your way to Northwest Ohio, feel free to join me. Either that or join us in Seal Harbor, Maine as we vacation with our family late in July.

I really would like to get to a football game in Durham this next season.

Drat - where was this invite when I was riding my bicycle around northwest Ohio in the summer of '07?

[ohioguy2]

Drat - where was this invite when I was riding my bicycle around northwest Ohio in the summer of '07?

GOBA? They will ride within a mile or two of my home again this summer. All riders should have a beer float break.

[DukieInKansas]

GOBA? They will ride within a mile or two of my home again this summer. All riders should have a beer float break.

No - just a family vacation. Started and ended in Toledo with overnight stops in Findlay, Springfield, Fostoria and a few others. Enjoyed the B-17 project in Urbana and the chocolate shop outside West Liberty. If you haven't seen the B-17 project, it is worth a visit. I think they are in the middle of moving to a bigger building at Grimes Field, so not sure how much you can see for the next few months - I believe their camera is offline at the moment.

[devildeac]

Haven't been off-topic in a long time, but when beer's involved, hey, it's worth a gander. Ozzie will be surprised to know I'm a Bud Light Lime convert from Bud Light, not sure I'd want to dabble putting ice cream in it, but who knows. I'm working on one now before turning in, getting up at 5:45 and returning to work, only to get home, lubricate, in prep for crushing the Twerps tomorrow night. Thursday I'm off, the forecast is decent, so I'll try the new BLL cans on the golf course, to see if it serves as good a steering fluid as regular Bud Light;) Stay tuned, I'll answer Thursday night.

Nefarious thread hijacking:eek::rolleyes:

[ohioguy2]

Two beer happenings to report. Friday, March 6 there is a beer tasting for charity event in Toledo. Several breweries and distributors will be "selling" short pours of their products. Goose Island and Bells are among the breweries. To prepare, I bought a bottle of Bell's Hopslam to drink this weekend. I am wondering how much of a honey taste it has. Probably has been reviewed here, but I am too lazy to search for it.

[devildeac]

Two beer happenings to report. Friday, March 6 there is a beer tasting for charity event in Toledo. Several breweries and distributors will be "selling" short pours of their products. Goose Island and Bells are among the breweries. To prepare, I bought a bottle of Bell's Hopslam to drink this weekend. I am wondering how much of a honey taste it has. Probably has been reviewed here, but I am too lazy to search for it.

You called?:D I am also likewise too lazy to look for it. My memory tells me intense hops with a very subtle honey flavor. If you like IIPA's, I think you'll enjoy this brew.

[DevilAlumna]

Too busy enjoying it, but will write up a review later on the spring seasonal offering from New Belgium Brewery - Mighty Arrow Pale Ale. (Named after the brewery's aussie shepherd - paging lavabe! :D)

[ArnieMc]

I tried a Lagunitas Hairy Eyeball Ale on tap at County Grille yesterday. It's almost like their Gnarlywine but more drinkable. Deep, rich color and aroma with dark fruits, heavy malt, good hops, and pretty high alcohol (8.8 %) - a very good winter brew with a great name!

[devildeac]

I tried a Lagunitas Hairy Eyeball Ale on tap at County Grille yesterday. It's almost like their Gnarlywine but more drinkable. Deep, rich color and aroma with dark fruits, heavy malt, good hops, and pretty high alcohol (8.8 %) - a very good winter brew with a great name!

I haven't enjoyed the few Lagunitas products I have tried. Perhaps a new awakening here...

[devildeac]

I've got a small stockpile of beverages I have enjoyed over the last couple weeks and will try to post some thoughts at a more reasonable hour:o.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Today, 03:23 AM
I've got a small stockpile of beverages I have enjoyed over the last couple weeks and will try to post some thoughts at a more reasonable hour:o.
What were you doing up at 3:23 a.m.? Insomnia, or had you talked with a patient/been on call?

[devildeac]

What were you doing up at 3:23 a.m.? Insomnia, or had you talked with a patient/been on call?

A rare bout of insomnia. Probably due to a nap that was a wee bit too long on our way out of town last evening:o.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

A rare bout of insomnia. Probably due to a nap that was a wee bit too long on our way out of town last evening:o.
According to the Surgeon General, napping while driving can be hazardous to your health! :D

[devildeac]

According to the Surgeon General, napping while driving can be hazardous to your health! :D

Fortunately on our journey, we had a designated driver (ALSO known as a dd, or more precisely Mrs. dd;)) and a designated napper:D.

I guess that sorta keeps it "thread appropriate" even though I waited until our journey ended to enjoy my adult beverage;).

[CameronBornAndBred]

It's dreary outside here at the beach, with rain and fog, so you have a perfect day to stay inside, watch basketball, and post reviews.

[devildeac]

It's dreary outside here at the beach, with rain and fog, so you have a perfect day to stay inside, watch basketball, and post reviews.

Check your PM. We'll take care of a lot of the business related stuff before and after the game;).

[bluebear]

sampled a few new items this weekend..
Yesterday it was the Gulden Draak--a dark tripel from Belgium...I'm not sure its even fair to call this beer..sweet, malty, and no carbonation. It was honestly the smoothest beer I've ever tried..

Tonight I am trying serpent's stout by Lost Abbey which is a very nice. Nearly black, lots of chocolate and malt. A nice thick but smooth stout..

[devildeac]

CB&B's Oatmeal Stout-just as I expected-a dark, almost black brew with a moderate amount of carbonation (nice medium brown head) and tons of chocolate malt, mild bitterness/hops and notes of chocolate, espresso, molasses and liquorice. I know there is no flavoring added but those flavors come out with the degreee of roasting of the malt. The oatmeal makes it a bit silky/oily and very smooth. I'd guess 5-6% ABV. I think I have 3 left so one is for Lavabe, one is for 30-60 days and one just may be for a beer float;).

[devildeac]

Chimay-Cinq Cents-A wonderful Belgian tripple. A bit hazier than I thought-guess I should have decanted the ale off the sediment/yeast gently instead of swirling it into the pour. Dark gold color, plenty of fizz or Belgian lace on the glass and hints of the typical orange zest/coriander/black pepper spiciness I'd expect from this style. 8% ABV and not subtle. Having had this and the Duvel (Flemish for devil) recently, I am back to preferring the Duvel as my favorite Belgian golden ale.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I am back to preferring the Duvel as my favorite Belgian golden ale.
That is a big toss up for me. My last Duvel was thanks very much to Ozzie, but I'm still more of a Chimay fan. I think I will have to find a bottle of Duvel to enjoy a whole goblet of for a re-visit.

[devildeac]

That is a big toss up for me. My last Duvel was thanks very much to Ozzie, but I'm still more of a Chimay fan. I think I will have to find a bottle of Duvel to enjoy a whole goblet of for a re-visit.

The 750 ml bottle is about $10 now. The 4 pack is about $15. And you don't HAVE to drink the entire 4 pack in one evening like you do the big boy;).
Sounds like that will be a comparison we need to do at Brunchgate 1 in the fall:D.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

That is a big toss up for me. My last Duvel was thanks very much to Ozzie, but I'm still more of a Chimay fan. I think I will have to find a bottle of Duvel to enjoy a whole goblet of for a re-visit.
You're very welcome!
The empty Duvel bottle is sitting on a bookcase shelf, next to my empty Chimay bottles (one red lavel, one blue label).
I preferred the Chimay to the Duvel.

[devildeac]

You're very welcome!
The empty Duvel bottle is sitting on a bookcase shelf, next to my empty Chimay bottles (one red lavel, one blue label).
I preferred the Chimay to the Duvel.

Good. You can bring the Chimay assortment to the 1st Brunchgate this FB season;). CB&B can bring the Duvel and I will bring the Westmalle, Corsendonk or some Delirium Tremens.:D

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Good. You can bring the Chimay assortment to the 1st Brunchgate this FB season;). CB&B can bring the Duvel and I will bring the Westmalle, Corsendonk or some Delirium Tremens.:D
Why would you want me to bring my empty bottles to the Brunchgate? :p

[devildeac]

Why would you want me to bring my empty bottles to the Brunchgate? :p

You've got it mixed up. You bring the FULL bottles to BG, we compare all the beverages and you take the EMPTY bottles home to put them on your shelf or recycle them;).

[CameronBornAndBred]

Sam Adams Imperial Stout
I'm loving this one. It's another from SA's "Imperial Series", it pours a thick black with a decent rich brown colored head. Overt chocolate notes, and this is what I like most about this beer. It's not advertised as a "chocolate stout", and that is it's outstanding quality. Not at all what I expected from an imperial. Low bitterness, as compared to say Brooklyn's chocolate stout, which is very bitter. 9.2% ABV, the alcohol is notable, but not what you notice at first. A little fruityness on the nose as well, this ale has lots of character, and rises quickly to the top tier of my list of favorites. Great beer float potential, too!

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Sam Adams Imperial Stout
I'm loving this one. It's another from SA's "Imperial Series", it pours a thick black with a decent rich brown colored head. Overt chocolate notes, and this is what I like most about this beer. It's not advertised as a "chocolate stout", and that is it's outstanding quality. Not at all what I expected from an imperial. Low bitterness, as compared to say Brooklyn's chocolate stout, which is very bitter. 9.2% ABV, the alcohol is notable, but not what you notice at first. A little fruityness on the nose as well, this ale has lots of character, and rises quickly to the top tier of my list of favorites. Great beer float potential, too!
That's what I was thinking as I read your review!

[devildeac]

That's what I was thinking as I read your review!

The eloquent review or beer float:rolleyes:

Oh, never mind...

[OZZIE4DUKE]

The eloquent review or beer float:rolleyes:

Oh, never mind...
Beer float. Sheesh! :D

[DevilAlumna]

Too busy enjoying it, but will write up a review later on the spring seasonal offering from New Belgium Brewery - Mighty Arrow Pale Ale. (Named after the brewery's aussie shepherd - paging lavabe! :D)

For you East Coasters, once the snow clears up and it turns warmer again, you're going to wish you had access to this brew!

A beautiful gold ale, not too thick, but definitely hoppy, it is very drinkable. A bit of a citrus note, but not overwhelming. It's almost too light for our cold nights here, but I think this will be my session beer for the big game next weekend. Refreshing, quaffable, tasty - what more could you ask for in a beer? :D

[DevilAlumna]

For those of you looking for IPAs to try, have you checked out the brackets for the National IPA Championship? My local beer reveiw source is gloating over the talents of the NW brewers, but I see some familiar names from elsewhere.

http://seattlebeernews.com/?p=153

[devildeac]

For those of you looking for IPAs to try, have you checked out the brackets for the National IPA Championship? My local beer reveiw source is gloating over the talents of the NW brewers, but I see some familiar names from elsewhere.

http://seattlebeernews.com/?p=153

Those scoundrels! They stole that idea from Lavabe, RMD and me! They didn't even do a drink-in game! Outrageous!

[CameronBornAndBred]

Those scoundrels! They stole that idea from Lavabe, RMD and me! They didn't even do a drink-in game! Outrageous!
I'd be shouting for royalties. Paid off in beer. Or money for which can be used to purchase beer. OR...money to purchase air fare for an on onsite tasting. I think you have a winnable case.

[devildeac]

I'd be shouting for royalties. Paid off in beer. Or money for which can be used to purchase beer. OR...money to purchase air fare for an on onsite tasting. I think you have a winnable case.

Well, I'm not really that upset about it:o...

[bluebear]

I've been somewhat frustrated that locally it's hard to find anything from west of PA..but I was excited today to find a bottle of Schlafly Reserve Stout..pricey but I had to pull the trigger..never tried any Schlafly but have read many reviews here..so should I celebrate Senior night with this tonight or keep it in its nice fancy box for awhile?

[CameronBornAndBred]

I've been somewhat frustrated that locally it's hard to find anything from west of PA..but I was excited today to find a bottle of Schlafly Reserve Stout..pricey but I had to pull the trigger..never tried any Schlafly but have read many reviews here..so should I celebrate Senior night with this tonight or keep it in its nice fancy box for awhile?
Either tonight or Sunday. One of the two. If Sunday, then you have to decide during the game, or during the selection show.

[moonpie23]

newcastle and bbq ribs......and not those crappy eastern nc bbq (soaked in vinegar) ribs,....i'm talking about gooey, drippy, ketchup-based kansas city / texas ribs...


yum

[devildeac]

For you East Coasters, once the snow clears up and it turns warmer again, you're going to wish you had access to this brew!

A beautiful gold ale, not too thick, but definitely hoppy, it is very drinkable. A bit of a citrus note, but not overwhelming. It's almost too light for our cold nights here, but I think this will be my session beer for the big game next weekend. Refreshing, quaffable, tasty - what more could you ask for in a beer? :D

Availability on the east coast?;)

[devildeac]

I've been somewhat frustrated that locally it's hard to find anything from west of PA..but I was excited today to find a bottle of Schlafly Reserve Stout..pricey but I had to pull the trigger..never tried any Schlafly but have read many reviews here..so should I celebrate Senior night with this tonight or keep it in its nice fancy box for awhile?

I have a 750 ml bottle of this (I think) awaiting consumption, compliments of the Lavabe household from Christmas. I'm in no hurry to drink it however as I suspect it can be aged for years.;)

[CameronBornAndBred]

I have a 750 ml bottle of this (I think) awaiting consumption, compliments of the Lavabe household from Christmas. I'm in no hurry to drink it however as I suspect it can be aged for years.;)
For your Christmas present at the last Brunchgate of NEXT year, i'm buying you toe nail clippers. Sleep well Rip. I don't see how you can have so much patience, but amen.

[devildeac]

OK, back to some reviews. I have been a bit delinquent.

Working my way through a trader/leftover mixed 6er (enjoyed over a week or more) from DukePA and CB&B from Casalinga night.

Ommegang-Witte-Another winner from the folks in Cooperstown. This would be better in the warm spring and hot summer days in NC. A true to form Belgian wheat beer, unfiltered. A bit hazy and zesty with orange peel notes and coriander, I think. Fizzy with a bit of hop bitterness. ABV is 5.1% so you can enjoy this as a session beer with...

[devildeac]

For your Christmas present at the last Brunchgate of NEXT year, i'm buying you toe nail clippers. Sleep well Rip. I don't see how you can have so much patience, but amen.

You should see the beverages I have "cellared.";). But, then again, you may have already noticed or figgered that out with some of the several year old barleywines we have traded:D.

[DevilAlumna]

Ommegang-Witte-Another winner from the folks in Cooperstown. This would be better in the warm spring and hot summer days in NC. A true to form Belgian wheat beer, unfiltered. A bit hazy and zesty with orange peel notes and coriander, I think. Fizzy with a bit of hop bitterness. ABV is 5.1% so you can enjoy this as a session beer with...

Ymm, Ommegang - I think I've had this brew as well, and IIRC, it was pretty tasty! Haven't seen much from that brewery out here.

[devildeac]

OK, back to some reviews. I have been a bit delinquent.

Working my way through a trader/leftover mixed 6er (enjoyed over a week or more) from DukePA and CB&B from Casalinga night.

Ommegang-Witte-Another winner from the folks in Cooperstown. This would be better in the warm spring and hot summer days in NC. A true to form Belgian wheat beer, unfiltered. A bit hazy and zesty with orange peel notes and coriander, I think. Fizzy with a bit of hop bitterness. ABV is 5.1% so you can enjoy this as a session beer with...

...as a session beer with...

Ft. Collins Chocolate Stout-this was included in the mixer/sixer with previously mentioned brews and soon-to-be-mentioned brews. I believe ohioguy reviewed this, once by itself and once as a beer float. I'll do it plain tonight. This is dark/nearly black with lots of dark chocolate aromas and tastes but I don't think with any chocolate additives. The taste is all from the deeply roasted chocolate malts. Basically no coffee/expresso flavors here. Slightly bitter as I would expect with so much dark malts and little hop presence. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before pouring and sip for your dessert or with a book by the fire or with some chocolate chip cookies or triple chocolate brownies. If I had another, I'd drop a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream in it and have a float this weekend:D. ABV probably 5-6%.

[DevilAlumna]

Another new-to-me review - Rogue's "Yellow Snow IPA (http://www.rogue.com/beers/yellow-snow-ipa.php)":

Poured a deep golden color, didn't present with much of a head. The scent was both musty and citrusy, which was about as appetizing as it sounds. The taste was weird - both fruity and bitter - and while I can't say it was pleasant, it wasn't that bad either; it was just a strange mix.

This beer did get a little smoother as it warmed up to below room temp, and the more I drank it, the more I got used to the flavor. I can't say I'd buy it again, but hey, I had to try a beer named "Yellow Snow" once, ya know? ;)

[devildeac]

Ymm, Ommegang - I think I've had this brew as well, and IIRC, it was pretty tasty! Haven't seen much from that brewery out here.

I think they distribute fairly widely in the NE and down south and, I'd bet, out to the midwest some, but little to the west coast. All the more reason to come to a Brunchgate in the fall and sample some Dogfish Head, Ommegang and Victory brews:D.

[devildeac]

Another new-to-me review - Rogue's "Yellow Snow IPA (http://www.rogue.com/beers/yellow-snow-ipa.php)":

Poured a deep golden color, didn't present with much of a head. The scent was both musty and citrusy, which was about as appetizing as it sounds. The taste was weird - both fruity and bitter - and while I can't say it was pleasant, it wasn't that bad either; it was just a strange mix.

This beer did get a little smoother as it warmed up to below room temp, and the more I drank it, the more I got used to the flavor. I can't say I'd buy it again, but hey, I had to try a beer named "Yellow Snow" once, ya know? ;)

I have not had that for several years and it is available here in NC, along with many other Rogue products. They have a huge selection of products and are never afraid to try some unusual combinations. I toured their brewery on the Oregon coast a number of years ago and sipped some of their fine XS products like IIPA, Imperial Stout, Scotch Ale and Old Crusty. You're right, though, you just have to try a beer named "Yellow Snow.":eek:;)

[OZZIE4DUKE]

You should see the beverages I have "cellared.";). But, then again, you may have already noticed or figgered that out with some of the several year old barleywines we have traded.


I have a 750 ml bottle of this (I think) awaiting consumption, compliments of the Lavabe household from Christmas. I'm in no hurry to drink it however as I suspect it can be aged for years.;)
OK, educate me a bit on this aging of beers once you have them. In years past, domestic brewers (AB, Miller and Coors) have waged advertising wars over how "fresh" their beer was ("born on" dates ring a bell?) and how it was brewed across the country to get you the consumer faster. I've had skunky beer on occasion , and I can attest that skunky is not good. Typically they got way bitter. So why is aging your "fancy" beers good? Does it have to do with them being "hoppy" and bitter to begin with so bitterer is better? It sounds sort of skunky to me. :D Inquiring minds want to know. :cool:

[devildeac]

OK, educate me a bit on this aging of beers once you have them. In years past, domestic brewers (AB, Miller and Coors) have waged advertising wars over how "fresh" their beer was ("born on" dates ring a bell?) and how it was brewed across the country to get you the consumer faster. I've had skunky beer on occasion , and I can attest that skunky is not good. Typically they got way bitter. So why is aging your "fancy" beers good? Does it have to do with them being "hoppy" and bitter to begin with so bitterer is better? It sounds sort of skunky to me. :D Inquiring minds want to know. :cool:

Let me ponder this today and re-visit this thread this evening with a more in-depth reply that hopefully will make some sense about the "aging" of beer. I suspect CB&B, ohioguy and RMD would have some thoughts, too.

[CameronBornAndBred]

In years past, domestic brewers (AB, Miller and Coors) have waged advertising wars over how "fresh" their beer was ("born on" dates ring a bell?) and how it was brewed across the country to get you the consumer faster.
I'll post thoughts on this later today, but just had to note I was thinking of Ozzie yesterday. I was at the store and for no particular reason checked the "Born on date" on a 6pack of Bud Light. It said "09FEB09".

[bluebear]

I have a 750 ml bottle of this (I think) awaiting consumption, compliments of the Lavabe household from Christmas. I'm in no hurry to drink it however as I suspect it can be aged for years.;)

Based on CBBs advice, I held off trying this on tuesday..I figure there is this sunday, and next sunday, and Final 4 weekend as better options..I don't think I have your patience though for any extended aging..

A few recent beers..
Brooklyn monster ale..barleywine..Not a bad beer but not too memorable either. I've been drinking a lot of Victory Old Horizontal which I really like and the Monster Ale doesn't compare. Bit too much of an alcohol taste. Again, not bad but just average..

Collaboration not Litigation..A belgium ale by Avery..a decent beer though hard to describe. It's a little sharper or less sweet (though still somewhat sweet) than I expected from a belgium ale...lots of yeast sediment. I did drink it a little cold so it might have been better had I let it warm a bit. Worth trying again..

[devildeac]

Based on CBBs advice, I held off trying this on tuesday..I figure there is this sunday, and next sunday, and Final 4 weekend as better options..I don't think I have your patience though for any extended aging..

A few recent beers..
Brooklyn monster ale..barleywine..Not a bad beer but not too memorable either. I've been drinking a lot of Victory Old Horizontal which I really like and the Monster Ale doesn't compare. Bit too much of an alcohol taste. Again, not bad but just average..

Collaboration not Litigation..A belgium ale by Avery..a decent beer though hard to describe. It's a little sharper or less sweet (though still somewhat sweet) than I expected from a belgium ale...lots of yeast sediment. I did drink it a little cold so it might have been better had I let it warm a bit. Worth trying again..

Interesting thoughts about the Monster and Old Horizontal. I can't pick a favorite between those two as I find them both quite quaffable when first purchased and even a bit smoother after aging for a year or more. I even have some 3-4 year old Monsters I'll have this winter or next. I haven't been able to keep many of the Old Horizontals around long enough to age any of them:o. Perhaps I do like the Victory barleywine a bit more;).

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I'll post thoughts on this later today, but just had to note I was thinking of Ozzie yesterday. I was at the store and for no particular reason checked the "Born on date" on a 6pack of Bud Light. It said "09FEB09".
Gotta love this! :D:cool::cool::cool:

On the other hand, why were you thinking of me? Because you saw the Bud Light I hope?

[CameronBornAndBred]

Gotta love this! :D:cool::cool::cool:

On the other hand, why were you thinking of me? Because you saw the Bud Light I hope?
Bud Light + 9F = Ozzie

[bluebear]

Interesting thoughts about the Monster and Old Horizontal. I can't pick a favorite between those two as I find them both quite quaffable when first purchased and even a bit smoother after aging for a year or more. I even have some 3-4 year old Monsters I'll have this winter or next. I haven't been able to keep many of the Old Horizontals around long enough to age any of them:o. Perhaps I do like the Victory barleywine a bit more;).

I didn't dislike the Monster and probably would have liked it more had without a recent comparison to the Horizontal...a have a few more monsters, so maybe I'll let them age a bit as you suggest and try again...I've been blowing through Horizontal this winter, though in my last trip to the store, all they had left was a 5 pack:eek:

[DukePA]

I do believe beer floats will become Brunchgate fare.

Happy, happy, joy, joy :D!!!!

[devildeac]

OK, educate me a bit on this aging of beers once you have them. In years past, domestic brewers (AB, Miller and Coors) have waged advertising wars over how "fresh" their beer was ("born on" dates ring a bell?) and how it was brewed across the country to get you the consumer faster. I've had skunky beer on occasion , and I can attest that skunky is not good. Typically they got way bitter. So why is aging your "fancy" beers good? Does it have to do with them being "hoppy" and bitter to begin with so bitterer is better? It sounds sort of skunky to me. :D Inquiring minds want to know. :cool:

Can't quite come up with a succinct reply yet but I'll post some thoughts/answers to your questions above.

1. Fresher beer is better with the average shelf life of your standard beers about 3-6 months. I often look at the brewing date or "drink by" date before I'll buy some of the standard beers.
2. Beers hate light and like to hibernate in dark (brown) bottles much better than green bottles. That's why just about any Heine/St Pauli/Lowenbarf, err, brau, tastes and smells skunky. I even hate Pilsner Urquell from a bottle as it is bad smelling and tasting and it has the reputation of being one of/the best pilsner in the world. BTW, it is wonderful on draught.
3. I'll drink some beers out of clear bottles, like just about any Samuel Smith's brews as they still taste wonderful and I am not quite sure why.
4. It's not that they are bitter, it's just that they are spoiled or oxidized by certain lights (wavelengths?). Heat is the enemy of beer, too. Skunky beer=spoiled beer.
5. I've also had some brews that foam too much or with no head at all and that generally indicates it has spoiled. Another really bad sign is if the beer tastes like liquid cardboard.

All that typing has made me thirsty:o;). More later or tomorrow evening...

[devildeac]

Chimay Grand Reserve-(you know, the blue one)-A classic-Medium to dark brown with aromas and tastes of dark fruits (raisins, dates, figs), brown sugar and caramel. Moderately fizzy but not like a golden ale. Slight bitterness with a strong but not overpowering alcohol taste. 9% ABV. Good dessert brew by itself or with apples or pears, maybe dipped in caramel or chocolate. DukePA and/or CB&B left this one last month and a deep note of appreciation is expressed at their kindness.

[DukePA]

Chimay Grand Reserve-(you know, the blue one)-A classic-Medium to dark brown with aromas and tastes of dark fruits (raisins, dates, figs), brown sugar and caramel. Moderately fizzy but not like a golden ale. Slight bitterness with a strong but not overpowering alcohol taste. 9% ABV. Good dessert brew by itself or with apples or pears, maybe dipped in caramel or chocolate. DukePA and/or CB&B left this one last month and a deep note of appreciation is expressed at their kindness.


So glad you enjoyed the Chimay Grand Reserve. A very yummy beer! (how's that for a review?). In the meantime, Ezmarellda here! Just enjoyed her 5th Corona Light. Oy gevalt :eek:!! Yay beer!

[devildeac]

Maisel's Weisse-I think this is the last of the 6er from the beach crew and it was a good one. A classic German wheat beer. Hazy, slightly spicy and orange zesty. Unfiltered. Nice fizz. I like these without a slice of fruit but a squeeze of orange would be refreshing and best enjoyed with this on the parch in the summertime (or tomorrow or Sunday in NC as the temps near 80:eek:). Probably about 5% ABV.

[CameronBornAndBred]

So glad you enjoyed the Chimay Grand Reserve. A very yummy beer! (how's that for a review?). In the meantime, Ezmarellda here! Just enjoyed her 5th Corona Light. Oy gevalt :eek:!! Yay beer!
How's Ezzie's head feeling this morning?

[DukePA]

How's Ezzie's head feeling this morning?

Ezmarellda is excellent today. Fortunately, she went to bed a few minutes after the last post :)

[devildeac]

Long Trail-IPA-unfiltered-the way it's supposed to be according these Ver-Mont brewers. Slightly cloudy/hazy but no tastes of wheat/citrus. Hops here are floral and not citrusy/piney. Best enjoyed during a W over the VThugs, at the coast, with friends and some cheese and crackers and pretzel sticks. Thanks to budwom for hauling this brew down from the frozen NE tundra along with a few others to be reviewed as the weekend progresses. About 5-6% ABV. Good session beer.

[CameronBornAndBred]

1554 Enlightened Black Ale, from New Belgium. Interesting dark beer, it's not really black as the name claims, but a really nice very deep red color when held to the light. It reminds me lots of Yeungling's Black and Tan in flavor. A little bitter, a lot of body. 5.6% ABV, so you can easily have a few in succession, but with the amount of body this beer has you better not have a meal planned after, it's filling. All the flavorings come from the dark malts, a little more coffee stands out to me instead of the chocolate that the proclaim on the bottle. I bought a bomber, very reasonably priced. A good brew, I'd go for it again. This is the same company that produces Fat Tire, which I also bought a bomber of and was dissapointed in. Not worthy of a Ycch, beer review, but not worth noting much about here, either.

[devildeac]

1554 Enlightened Black Ale, from New Belgium. Interesting dark beer, it's not really black as the name claims, but a really nice very deep red color when held to the light. It reminds me lots of Yeungling's Black and Tan in flavor. A little bitter, a lot of body. 5.6% ABV, so you can easily have a few in succession, but with the amount of body this beer has you better not have a meal planned after, it's filling. All the flavorings come from the dark malts, a little more coffee stands out to me instead of the chocolate that the proclaim on the bottle. I bought a bomber, very reasonably priced. A good brew, I'd go for it again. This is the same company that produces Fat Tire, which I also bought a bomber of and was dissapointed in. Not worthy of a Ycch, beer review, but not worth noting much about here, either.

How and where did you find a New Belgium beer east of the Mississippi?

[CameronBornAndBred]

How and where did you find a New Belgium beer east of the Mississippi?
hehe, I didn't know it was rare. (Although the reason I bought it was because I hadn't seen it before and the bombers were cheap.) Check your local Harris Teeter if you have one. Otherwise I'll snag a few and have my wife hide them from me.:rolleyes:

[devildeac]

hehe, I didn't know it was rare. (Although the reason I bought it was because I hadn't seen it before and the bombers were cheap.) Check your local Harris Teeter if you have one. Otherwise I'll snag a few and have my wife hide them from me.:rolleyes:

Excellent plan:D

[devildeac]

Long Trail Ale-their signature beer-an amber ale, but they call it an alt-Brewed in a true German fashion with a moderate amount of caramel malt and maybe some chocolate malt. Medium brown, clear and a bit sweet/malty and nutty up front and through the whole glass. This was also a nice session beer that was quaffed before the VThuggery last weekend, courtesy of budwom. ABV is probably about 5%.

[ohioguy2]

I ate a few,well maybe more, Caramel Delights and drank a Hopslam during the first half of the women's game. The Hopslam had quite a bite, but was not overly bitter. I did not notice any overt honey taste but early on it had a distinct citrus fragrance with "hidden" orange tastes. I had allowed it to warm up before I poured it into my Duke mug. Not my favorite beer(I reserve that for the Great Lakes Fitz. Porter), but certainly worthy of some praise.

[captmojo]

Right now I'm starting in on a lager labeled (or might as well be labeled)...


Frustrated


...to immediately be followed by...



Hopeful Anxiety

[devildeac]

Old Horizontal-usually one of my favorite barleywines-last evening, it was bitter and not enjoyable. I even clanged the empty bottle off the side of the trashcan, missed the rebound and got whistled for a technical foul by my wife in the process for excess profanity in the kitchen:o:eek:. Still have 2 left, I think. One for CB&B and one for next year.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Old Horizontal-usually one of my favorite barleywines-last evening, it was bitter and not enjoyable.

Still have 2 left, I think. One for CB&B and one for next year.
Ick! This milk is sour. Here, you taste it :rolleyes:

[devildeac]

Ick! This milk is sour. Here, you taste it :rolleyes:

It was actually a reference to my state of mind after MBB and WBB lost yesterday. I could have had a Chimay and I don't think I would have enjoyed it.:(:mad::o

[OZZIE4DUKE]

It was actually a reference to my state of mind after MBB and WBB lost yesterday. I could have had a Chimay and I don't think I would have enjoyed it.:(:mad::o
Dang liberal arts metaphors and imagery! :rolleyes:

[Lavabe]

Dang liberal arts metaphors and imagery! :rolleyes:

Sure beats Zager & Evans references to postcounts!:rolleyes:

Given the way the BBall season has been lately, I haven't had much brew in the last few weeks. I can't watch the games, I can't NOT watch the games. Lucky sweatshirt works, lucky sweatshirt doesn't work. My BBall mojo is not working.

Maybe I should try a Hopslam to change the mojo for the team. Something really bitter. Any other suggestions?:p

[devildeac]

Sure beats Zager & Evans references to postcounts!:rolleyes:

Given the way the BBall season has been lately, I haven't had much brew in the last few weeks. I can't watch the games, I can't NOT watch the games. Lucky sweatshirt works, lucky sweatshirt doesn't work. My BBall mojo is not working.

Maybe I should try a Hopslam to change the mojo for the team. Something really bitter. Any other suggestions?:p

I'll send you the link tonight for the 50 or 100 most bitter beers in America...

[ArnieMc]

I tried a Porkslap at the County Grille. The best things it has going for it are the name and the can. The can is pink with a pair of pigs doing a belly slap - reminds me of Doh's assault on Chris Collins. The beer is a pretty typical pale ale with hints of this that and the other, but not much real flavor. It was preceded by a Legend IPA, and it reminded me of the Legend - except without the flavor. If you are a can collector, go for it! Otherwise - - eh.

[ohioguy2]

Sure beats Zager & Evans references to postcounts!:rolleyes:

Given the way the BBall season has been lately, I haven't had much brew in the last few weeks. I can't watch the games, I can't NOT watch the games. Lucky sweatshirt works, lucky sweatshirt doesn't work. My BBall mojo is not working.

Maybe I should try a Hopslam to change the mojo for the team. Something really bitter. Any other suggestions?:p

The Hopslam did not work for me in regards to the women's game last week, but maybe it was just me (or the Girl Scout cookies). The game was a bitter pill to swallow as was the beer.

[devildeac]

30 Day Alt-CB&B Specialty Brewing-Has matured nicely in a month with little difference in that time. A bit darker and maltier/sweeter than a standard alt or amber brew which is good. A bit nutty and wheat bread type doughy. My bet is about 5-6% ABV. Pretzels and brown mustard or wheat crackers and mild cheddar would be good with this. I'd have a brat at a Brunchgate with one of these, too.

[CameronBornAndBred]

30 Day Alt-CB&B Specialty Brewing-Has matured nicely in a month with little difference in that time. A bit darker and maltier/sweeter than a standard alt or amber brew which is good. A bit nutty and wheat bread type doughy. My bet is about 5-6% ABV. Pretzels and brown mustard or wheat crackers and mild cheddar would be good with this. I'd have a brat at a Brunchgate with one of these, too.
I had to go back and look at my schedule. This was bottled on 1/7, so it's actually the 60 day tasting, which I've decided to join you in. I'm sipping my last one now, and the review seems true. The alt was my last kit extract brew. The oatmeal stout I followed with was partial extract, but heavier on the grains, and the rest since have been all-grain.
I notice it has smoothed out quite a bit since I last tasted it, and the finish has a nicer bitterness than I recall from before.

[devildeac]

I had to go back and look at my schedule. This was bottled on 1/7, so it's actually the 60 day tasting, which I've decided to join you in. I'm sipping my last one now, and the review seems true. The alt was my last kit extract brew. The oatmeal stout I followed with was partial extract, but heavier on the grains, and the rest since have been all-grain.
I notice it has smoothed out quite a bit since I last tasted it, and the finish has a nicer bitterness than I recall from before.

I've got an oatmeal stout and a smoked IPA left for the 60 day tastings, too:D.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I've got an oatmeal stout and a smoked IPA left for the 60 day tastings, too:D.
I'm sipping on a SIPA now, only one left after. Good thing I'm bottling tonight. Anyways, I finished off the stouts long ago, I guess I liked them :). The SIPA is a favorite too, I intentionally stashed my remainders away to the bottom of my boxes.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I've got an oatmeal stout and a smoked IPA left for the 60 day tastings, too:D.
You smoked your IPA? :eek:

[bluebear]

I broke down after the Carolina game and tried my Schafly Reserve Stout..what a great beer. Sweet and smooth with not too much of an alcohol taste. Good blend of chocolate and malt. If it wasn't so expensive, I'd buy a few more..

I was also stocking up on Stone Imperial Stout and the owner of the store talked my into buying a Black Albert Royal Stout which is some cross between a stout and Belgium strong ale. Pricey for an 11.2 oz bottle but I couldn't resist trying it. I hear this is highly rated but I thought it was just average. ABV is 13% and you can really taste it. It did have an interesting creamy finish. Glad I tried it but probably won't buy again..

[devildeac]

I broke down after the Carolina game and tried my Schafly Reserve Stout..what a great beer. Sweet and smooth with not too much of an alcohol taste. Good blend of chocolate and malt. If it wasn't so expensive, I'd buy a few more..

I was also stocking up on Stone Imperial Stout and the owner of the store talked my into buying a Black Albert Royal Stout which is some cross between a stout and Belgium strong ale. Pricey for an 11.2 oz bottle but I couldn't resist trying it. I hear this is highly rated but I thought it was just average. ABV is 13% and you can really taste it. It did have an interesting creamy finish. Glad I tried it but probably won't buy again..

Great reading your reviews. Where do you get some of those brews?

[devildeac]

You smoked your IPA? :eek:

An India Pale Ale (IPA) that is made with malt that has been roasted or "smoked" over peat or wood that has been "burned" for lack of any better description.

:oSheesh. Chris and I need to edjumacate you about types of beers, malts, hops, etc;)

[OZZIE4DUKE]

An India Pale Ale (IPA) that is made with malt that has been roasted or "smoked" over peat or wood that has been "burned" for lack of any better description.

:oSheesh. Chris and I need to edjumacate you about types of beers, malts, hops, etc;)
I had no idea what IPA stood for until now. Why is it called "India"?

[CameronBornAndBred]

:oSheesh. Chris and I need to edjumacate you about types of beers, malts, hops, etc;)
I have hope..Ozzie DID voluntarily go for the Duvel. We'll start slow, one ale per brunching, which he can chase with a Bud Light.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I have hope..Ozzie DID voluntarily go for the Duvel. We'll start slow, one ale per brunching, which he can chase with a Bud Light.
Works for me! And we can enjoy them under our new "t" thing! (Shhhhhh! We'll announce that later ;))

[CameronBornAndBred]

I broke my hydrometer tonight. And I bottled. SO this means that the brew I bottled (sitting in the fermenter for 6 weeks now) I have no idea what the ABV will be. This is going to be a TOTAL mystery beer. I'm marking all the bottle caps with a "?". I brewed it with excess grain that I had. No recipe, but there are some nice dark malts included. I tasted it tonight after I finished with all the bottles and it seems it will be a little smokey, a little chocolatey, and a bit bitter. I plan on enjoying the first trainer bottle during Sunday's Duke ACC Championship game VS. whoever.

[devildeac]

I had no idea what IPA stood for until now. Why is it called "India"?

It is a pale ale originally brewed by the British and shipped to India with their soldiers/sailors to uh, tide them over on the long journey. In order to preserve it for the long trip, they added larger amounts of hops than usual to make the ale. This gave the beer a more complex flavor (which was typically more bitter or floral or citrus-like, depending on which types of hops were used), a higher alcohol content and the hops made a nice preservative for the beverage. Hence the name, India Pale Ale. I read that years ago and some of the details may be slightly off but that's about as accurately as I can 'splain it.

I haven't forgotten about the "aging" question either. Perhaps tomorrow night.

[devildeac]

Works for me! And we can enjoy them under our new "t" thing! (Shhhhhh! We'll announce that later ;))

I will be real curious to read the reaction to THAT;).

[devildeac]

I broke my hydrometer tonight. And I bottled. SO this means that the brew I bottled (sitting in the fermenter for 6 weeks now) I have no idea what the ABV will be. This is going to be a TOTAL mystery beer. I'm marking all the bottle caps with a "?". I brewed it with excess grain that I had. No recipe, but there are some nice dark malts included. I tasted it tonight after I finished with all the bottles and it seems it will be a little smokey, a little chocolatey, and a bit bitter. I plan on enjoying the first trainer bottle during Sunday's Duke ACC Championship game VS. whoever.

Please save 3 for me: one for "now" and then one for 30 days and one for 60 days.;)

[CameronBornAndBred]

Please save 3 for me: one for "now" and then one for 30 days and one for 60 days.;)
Already planned your 6 pack. I was going to bottle the milk stout tonight also, but since I'm down a hydrometer, I'll let it ferment until I go buy one this weekend. Once it's bottled, you'll have 3 of each.

[devildeac]

Already planned your 6 pack. I was going to bottle the milk stout tonight also, but since I'm down a hydrometer, I'll let it ferment until I go buy one this weekend. Once it's bottled, you'll have 3 of each.

Your nomination for sainthood is forthcoming;):D.

Seriously, thank you for keeping me in your distribution plans.

[bluebear]

Great reading your reviews. Where do you get some of those brews?

Likewise with your reviews....I live outside of Boston and I frequent 2 stores--1 in town and 1 in the burbs..both have a great selection of microbrews and imports. They are also both very good at rotating in new beers though I've sampled so much this winter that my options are dwindling. Hopefully Spring/Summer will bring an influx of new offerings.

[bluebear]

I thought about putting this in the main beer thread but then thought it might warrant a separate thread. Hoping that Cameronbornandbred or others might offer some guidance on getting started on brewing your own beer. I've scoped out a few local supply stores which offer complete kits, as well as general supplies for taking a less pre-packaged approach..any advice?

[Windsor]

Must be beer brewing time...I was just toying with idea of trying some home brewing and done a little research myself...I'll be looking forward to any advice!

[devildeac]

Likewise with your reviews....I live outside of Boston and I frequent 2 stores--1 in town and 1 in the burbs..both have a great selection of microbrews and imports. They are also both very good at rotating in new beers though I've sampled so much this winter that my options are dwindling. Hopefully Spring/Summer will bring an influx of new offerings.

Total Wine, Whole Foods and CameronBornandBred (:D) are my main retail/private sources. I am heading to Oregon in 2 weeks so that will bring a nice new selection of west coast brews to sample and review.

[devildeac]

I thought about putting this in the main beer thread but then thought it might warrant a separate thread. Hoping that Cameronbornandbred or others might offer some guidance on getting started on brewing your own beer. I've scoped out a few local supply stores which offer complete kits, as well as general supplies for taking a less pre-packaged approach..any advice?

I have never brewed or helped brew a single batch of beer in my life. I'll tell you the story sometime. Good luck. CB&B does a GREAT job.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I would start with a kit, just because it's a real good way to prepare yourself for the more involved processes that will come later. There are also some great resources online, one of my favorites is this one. http://www.howtobrew.com/intro.html
I own the book, but that's it in it's entirety online and free.
If you do get a kit, make sure it includes some specialty grains. Some kits only include extract, which is ok if you want to drink alcoholic pond water. The grains give the beer it's character. The extracts are grains that have already gone through the conversion process from starches to sugar, so a long step is skipped for you.
One of my favorite suppliers is these folks in Asheville.
http://www.ashevillebrewers.com/
They have great prices, even with shipping they often will beat a local supply shop. Their kits are very good, Devildeac and Lavabe can attest to the outcome.
The advantage of a local supplier of course is proximity and if you have questions they will be more than happy to help you out.
For a good starter kit as far as supplies go, this is what I started with and still use today. Very hardy. It's the Brewer's Best Equipment kit.
Brewer's Best beer kits are also good ones to go with as far as the actual beer itself.
http://www.docsbrew.com/images/beerkit.gif

One other online store that I've used and liked is this one.
http://www.homebrewit.com/ Lots to choose from there. Best of luck, if you get to brewing and get to any football games, we'll have to do some trading and comparing!

[bluebear]

I would start with a kit, just because it's a real good way to prepare yourself for the more involved processes that will come later. There are also some great resources online, one of my favorites is this one. http://www.howtobrew.com/intro.html
I own the book, but that's it in it's entirety online and free.
If you do get a kit, make sure it includes some specialty grains. Some kits only include extract, which is ok if you want to drink alcoholic pond water. The grains give the beer it's character. The extracts are grains that have already gone through the conversion process from starches to sugar, so a long step is skipped for you.
One of my favorite suppliers is these folks in Asheville.
http://www.ashevillebrewers.com/
They have great prices, even with shipping they often will beat a local supply shop. Their kits are very good, Devildeac and Lavabe can attest to the outcome.
The advantage of a local supplier of course is proximity and if you have questions they will be more than happy to help you out.
For a good starter kit as far as supplies go, this is what I started with and still use today. Very hardy. It's the Brewer's Best Equipment kit.
Brewer's Best beer kits are also good ones to go with as far as the actual beer itself.
http://www.docsbrew.com/images/beerkit.gif

One other online store that I've used and liked is this one.
http://www.homebrewit.com/ Lots to choose from there. Best of luck, if you get to brewing and get to any football games, we'll have to do some trading and comparing!


Wow..thanks so much for all the info..Just flipping through that book online and it seems to give a lot of detail which I will definitely need. The equipment kit and actual beer kits that you linked are also a lot more reasonable than what I have found locally. Hope you don't mind if I hit you up for more advice as I go through the process.
thanks again..

[bluebear]

I have never brewed or helped brew a single batch of beer in my life. I'll tell you the story sometime. Good luck. CB&B does a GREAT job.

Sounds like a good story..

[CameronBornAndBred]

Wow..thanks so much for all the info..Just flipping through that book online and it seems to give a lot of detail which I will definitely need. The equipment kit and actual beer kits that you linked are also a lot more reasonable than what I have found locally. Hope you don't mind if I hit you up for more advice as I go through the process.
thanks again..
No problem, glad to help. One last bit advice...start buying beer in bottles only, no twist off caps. You drink the beer, save the bottle. One 5 gallon batch (which is what the kits make) will fill at least 48 12oz. bottles. Brown bottles are the best, but any will work. Also save the boxes for storing later on. Rinse the bottles out after drinking them, it will make sanitizing them that much easier.

[bluebear]

No problem, glad to help. One last bit advice...start buying beer in bottles only, no twist off caps. You drink the beer, save the bottle. One 5 gallon batch (which is what the kits make) will fill at least 48 12oz. bottles. Brown bottles are the best, but any will work. Also save the boxes for storing later on. Rinse the bottles out after drinking them, it will make sanitizing them that much easier.

I better start drinking more so that I'll have enough bottles for my first batch...;)

[devildeac]

Sounds like a good story..

Got a few minutes so I'll tell it now.

One of the radiology techs I used to work with about 10-12 years ago told me her husband brewed beer and was pretty good at it. She came home from work one day and heard a popping sound and could not figure out what it was until she went upstairs and it kept getting louder and more frequent. When she opened their closet, she realized what was occurring. His most recently bottled project (a porter or a stout) was sending all the caps all over their clothes closet with beer fountains/explosions. She figured out some way to stop it-I guess she covered his case or two of brews with a blanket-when he returned home, he saw the disaster that had occurred and had the ultimatum from his wife-the beer goes or he goes. They are still happily married to this day:o;):eek:. I know that is an extreme, but that, and the time involved has kept me from venturing into the home-brewing arena.

[bluebear]

Got a few minutes so I'll tell it now.

One of the radiology techs I used to work with about 10-12 years ago told me her husband brewed beer and was pretty good at it. She came home from work one day and heard a popping sound and could not figure out what it was until she went upstairs and it kept getting louder and more frequent. When she opened their closet, she realized what was occurring. His most recently bottled project (a porter or a stout) was sending all the caps all over their clothes closet with beer fountains/explosions. She figured out some way to stop it-I guess she covered his case or two of brews with a blanket-when he returned home, he saw the disaster that had occurred and had the ultimatum from his wife-the beer goes or he goes. They are still happily married to this day:o;):eek:. I know that is an extreme, but that, and the time involved has kept me from venturing into the home-brewing arena.

If I have any chance at trying this, I will definitely not be sharing that story with my wife...

[ohioguy2]

According to my New Belgium Newsletter, their products are now available in North Carolina. No details as to exactly where. Anyone know more?

[devildeac]

If I have any chance at trying this, I will definitely not be sharing that story with my wife...

A wise decision;)

[devildeac]

According to my New Belgium Newsletter, their products are now available in North Carolina. No details as to exactly where. Anyone know more?

I'll be looking REAL soon:D.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I'll be looking REAL soon:D.
I've already found them (and posted reviews) at Harris Teeter.

[blazindw]

So, this is probably the right thread to go to for help in this area. I have decided 2009 is the year I start to drink some beer and like it. Ever since I started drinking, I've been hands-off to beer because I thought it was nasty. But, beer is usually the drink that has special deals at bars, not the Jack that I usually drink. So, I figured it's time to start trying some beers to see what I can add to my alcoholic arsenal.

Can anyone recommend any everyday beers that you think I would like? Any sampler 6-packs that I should check out? Here's my limited beer experience so far, but I'm willing to try most:

Shiner Bock - wasn't bad
Raspberry Belgian Lambic - Enjoyed
Some random Cider - Enjoyed
Miller Lite - bleh
Bud Lite - eh
Corona (no lime) - eh
Dos Equis - eh

I hear some stouts are chocolaty or coffee-like in flavor, which I don't enjoy. Usually the fruity beers I have enjoyed more (haven't tried Blue Moon yet, but it's on my list). My goal is to have an everyday type of beer that I can enjoy and not have to ask for the random insert-fruit, insert-nationality beer that 1 bar in 50 may have. 'Preciate the help!

[Windsor]

If I have any chance at trying this, I will definitely not be sharing that story with my wife...


Since I am the wife I guess I'm safe. Can't wait to tell my husband that if we want to home brew he must start drinking more beer ASAP so we have enough bottles!

[devildeac]

So, this is probably the right thread to go to for help in this area. I have decided 2009 is the year I start to drink some beer and like it. Ever since I started drinking, I've been hands-off to beer because I thought it was nasty. But, beer is usually the drink that has special deals at bars, not the Jack that I usually drink. So, I figured it's time to start trying some beers to see what I can add to my alcoholic arsenal.

Can anyone recommend any everyday beers that you think I would like? Any sampler 6-packs that I should check out? Here's my limited beer experience so far, but I'm willing to try most:

Shiner Bock - wasn't bad
Strawberry Belgian Lambic - Enjoyed
Some random Cider - Enjoyed
Miller Lite - bleh
Bud Lite - eh
Corona (no lime) - eh
Dos Equis - eh

I hear some stouts are chocolaty or coffee-like in flavor, which I don't enjoy. Usually the fruity beers I have enjoyed more (haven't tried Blue Moon yet, but it's on my list). My goal is to have an everyday type of beer that I can enjoy and not have to ask for the random insert-fruit, insert-nationality beer that 1 bar in 50 may have. 'Preciate the help!

I do believe you have come to the right place;). Start with post #1 and...just kidding. I'll give it some thought, as I am sure a few other residents here will also, and come up with a starter 6er or two so you may commence. I'm working for the next several hours (yes, it does interfere with posting at times:o), so I'll add my thoughts later this evening.

[devildeac]

So, this is probably the right thread to go to for help in this area. I have decided 2009 is the year I start to drink some beer and like it. Ever since I started drinking, I've been hands-off to beer because I thought it was nasty. But, beer is usually the drink that has special deals at bars, not the Jack that I usually drink. So, I figured it's time to start trying some beers to see what I can add to my alcoholic arsenal.

Can anyone recommend any everyday beers that you think I would like? Any sampler 6-packs that I should check out? Here's my limited beer experience so far, but I'm willing to try most:

Shiner Bock - wasn't bad
Strawberry Belgian Lambic - Enjoyed
Some random Cider - Enjoyed
Miller Lite - bleh
Bud Lite - eh
Corona (no lime) - eh
Dos Equis - eh

I hear some stouts are chocolaty or coffee-like in flavor, which I don't enjoy. Usually the fruity beers I have enjoyed more (haven't tried Blue Moon yet, but it's on my list). My goal is to have an everyday type of beer that I can enjoy and not have to ask for the random insert-fruit, insert-nationality beer that 1 bar in 50 may have. 'Preciate the help!

I'd start off with some mixed 6ers. It's a bit more expensive buying individual beers but if you find one or more you don't like, you are stuck with the whole 6er. If you find several you like, you can go back and buy said 6ers.

Pick one each from Sam Adams pale ale, brown ale, IPA, winter lager, spring lager, Boston Ale, Boston lager or some combo thereof. Why? They brew good stuff, they're readily available almost anywhere, they are not as expensive as some real specialty brews and they represents several styles of beer. Report back next week with your thoughts.