Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 5 Aroma: 2
Total: 21
It's a beautiful stout with a pitch black color and a dark cream head. But I get very little aroma from it at all. The taste at first is very sweet with malt and cream. A nice roasted coffee flavor hits the mid tongue. It's not overpowering. That coffee flavor continues all the way through to the finish. But the flavors are a bit muted. It certainly is not a bold stout. It's very drinkable and would be good if you're looking to enjoy several stouts in a row.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Founder's Breakfast Stout: 28
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 5
Total: 28
A beer of legend. An oatmeal stout brewed with chocolate and coffee, it is one of the best rated beers. It is brewed very infrequently and the distribution has been very limited. Luckily, they started shipping to New Jersey this year.
It pours with a thin head but also black as oil. It has a great aroma of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt.
It starts sweet on the tongue from the malt. There is a bit of creaminess to it like a chocolate malted milk. In the middle of the tongue the bitter chocolate starts to peak. At the back the coffee really kicks in. Under it all is a bit of the oatmeal's earthiness. The finish is a bit dry but very smooth. The entire combination is very complex but it's not overpowering. I half expected to get hit in the face with coffee but instead it blends perfectly and is well balanced.
Truly one of the great stouts and a must try for all.
Total: 28
A beer of legend. An oatmeal stout brewed with chocolate and coffee, it is one of the best rated beers. It is brewed very infrequently and the distribution has been very limited. Luckily, they started shipping to New Jersey this year.
It pours with a thin head but also black as oil. It has a great aroma of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt.
It starts sweet on the tongue from the malt. There is a bit of creaminess to it like a chocolate malted milk. In the middle of the tongue the bitter chocolate starts to peak. At the back the coffee really kicks in. Under it all is a bit of the oatmeal's earthiness. The finish is a bit dry but very smooth. The entire combination is very complex but it's not overpowering. I half expected to get hit in the face with coffee but instead it blends perfectly and is well balanced.
Truly one of the great stouts and a must try for all.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Fuller's 1845: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 27
This is Fuller's bottle conditioned ale. It is a terrific deep amber color with a full creamy head. It has a very faint hop aroma.
It has a very nice sweetness upfront to it. In the mid a great caramelized malt hits the tongue. At the back of the tongue is a moderate hops. Left on the tongue is a bit of roasted malt and caramel. It has a slight smokiness and wood flavor to it as well. Also a bit of crusty bread.
A fantastic ale. Also, it's very potent at 6.2% alcohol. Lots of flavor yet very drinkable. For a straight forward English pint, this is near perfection.
Total: 27
This is Fuller's bottle conditioned ale. It is a terrific deep amber color with a full creamy head. It has a very faint hop aroma.
It has a very nice sweetness upfront to it. In the mid a great caramelized malt hits the tongue. At the back of the tongue is a moderate hops. Left on the tongue is a bit of roasted malt and caramel. It has a slight smokiness and wood flavor to it as well. Also a bit of crusty bread.
A fantastic ale. Also, it's very potent at 6.2% alcohol. Lots of flavor yet very drinkable. For a straight forward English pint, this is near perfection.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Stone Double Bastard: 29
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 29
2008 version:
The brew is a murky red and brown with a decent head. It has a nice hop aroma. It starts with a mild malt sweetness. It slips over the tongue with a buttery undertone. It's also a bit oily. I attribute this to the high alcohol content which when done right can slightly numb the tongue without overpowering it. There is some caramelized malt towards the middle. The hops start to pick up towards the back. It also has a bit of a piny/woodsy flavor. But above all, it is extremely smooth. I'm a bit surprised. This is typically a beer that you would store for a year or two and let it age in the bottle. So I expected it to be slightly "bright" on the palate.
Easily one of the best beers I've had. Given the Arrogant Bastard is a very in-your-face brew, I was please to see this one so well balanced with great flavors. If it had a slightly better aroma it would be perfect.
Total: 29
2008 version:
The brew is a murky red and brown with a decent head. It has a nice hop aroma. It starts with a mild malt sweetness. It slips over the tongue with a buttery undertone. It's also a bit oily. I attribute this to the high alcohol content which when done right can slightly numb the tongue without overpowering it. There is some caramelized malt towards the middle. The hops start to pick up towards the back. It also has a bit of a piny/woodsy flavor. But above all, it is extremely smooth. I'm a bit surprised. This is typically a beer that you would store for a year or two and let it age in the bottle. So I expected it to be slightly "bright" on the palate.
Easily one of the best beers I've had. Given the Arrogant Bastard is a very in-your-face brew, I was please to see this one so well balanced with great flavors. If it had a slightly better aroma it would be perfect.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Victory Storm King Stout: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 27
Victory does it again with their Storm King Stout. It is completely black with a brown chocolaty head. It has a nice but mild chocolate and malt aroma. There is not much sweetness in this stout. This is more of a bitter stout. Lots of bitter chocolate pour over the tongue. There is a bit of sweet malt under it but it's muted. The finish is very dry and slightly bitter. I tried to take a big swig of it but I couldn't. This is a sipping stout. And at 9.1% alcohol, that's a good thing.
I could probably have two bottles of this before my pallet was exhausted. It's a very bold flavor. But also near perfection.
Total: 27
Victory does it again with their Storm King Stout. It is completely black with a brown chocolaty head. It has a nice but mild chocolate and malt aroma. There is not much sweetness in this stout. This is more of a bitter stout. Lots of bitter chocolate pour over the tongue. There is a bit of sweet malt under it but it's muted. The finish is very dry and slightly bitter. I tried to take a big swig of it but I couldn't. This is a sipping stout. And at 9.1% alcohol, that's a good thing.
I could probably have two bottles of this before my pallet was exhausted. It's a very bold flavor. But also near perfection.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Great Divide - Denver Pale Ale: 24
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 24
Great Divide is definitely one of the best breweries in the country with Yeti & Titan. Unfortunately, Denver starts with a relatively flat pour with a mild amber color. It also has a very mild malt aroma to it with a hint of grapefruit.
Pretty good. It starts with some mild malt sweetness. At the mid tongue to the back some hops kick in. A little grapefruit. But mostly a "copper" flavor. A bit of bitterness sits on the tongue. Really, a near perfect pale ale in taste. Having just drank several Bass' last night, this is definitely a step up in flavor and retains a smooth finish. A great bar beer or one for watching the game while downing wings and chili.
Total: 24
Great Divide is definitely one of the best breweries in the country with Yeti & Titan. Unfortunately, Denver starts with a relatively flat pour with a mild amber color. It also has a very mild malt aroma to it with a hint of grapefruit.
Pretty good. It starts with some mild malt sweetness. At the mid tongue to the back some hops kick in. A little grapefruit. But mostly a "copper" flavor. A bit of bitterness sits on the tongue. Really, a near perfect pale ale in taste. Having just drank several Bass' last night, this is definitely a step up in flavor and retains a smooth finish. A great bar beer or one for watching the game while downing wings and chili.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Dogfish Head - Worldwide Stout: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 5
Total: 27
At $10 per 12 ounce bottle, I'm anxious to try this. The color is pure black with no light through it. It has a small head that dissipates quickly. The aroma is huge. Big bold roasted coffee like putting your nose into a fresh bag of coffee beans. Under it is a bit of vanilla.
A second after my first sip I get hit with sweet but really strong coffee. French roast or stronger. There's a good bit of bitterness towards the back of the tongue. And it also turns a bit acidic and then the warm alcohol kicks is. I didn't realize this was 18%. So, this is definitely a sipper over an hour. The coffee, with a hint of dark chocolate sticks to the tongue for a while after each sip. Again, some mild vanilla undertones.
A very potent and bold brew. Definitely worth breaking out over a special occasion. Would be great to split a bottle over dessert.
Total: 27
At $10 per 12 ounce bottle, I'm anxious to try this. The color is pure black with no light through it. It has a small head that dissipates quickly. The aroma is huge. Big bold roasted coffee like putting your nose into a fresh bag of coffee beans. Under it is a bit of vanilla.
A second after my first sip I get hit with sweet but really strong coffee. French roast or stronger. There's a good bit of bitterness towards the back of the tongue. And it also turns a bit acidic and then the warm alcohol kicks is. I didn't realize this was 18%. So, this is definitely a sipper over an hour. The coffee, with a hint of dark chocolate sticks to the tongue for a while after each sip. Again, some mild vanilla undertones.
A very potent and bold brew. Definitely worth breaking out over a special occasion. Would be great to split a bottle over dessert.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Heineken: 16
Taste: 5 Finish: 4 Visual: 3 Aroma: 4
Total: 16
Growing up, Heineken and Lowenbrau probably epitomized what good European beer was. In a new world where great craft beer can be gotten almost anywhere, is Heineken still a king amongst brews?
It has a very pale yellow color with a small head. The color is kind of generic. The aroma is what you'd expect for a light lager. Straw. A bit of hops. And it has that European pilsner aroma even though this isn't technically a pilsner. It's a pale lager which to me means generic.
It has a bit of a bitter bite up front. By the middle the earthiness of it opens up. Straw. Earth. I want a little lemon or yeast in it but there is none. And in the back is the flavor of boiled hops. It finishes cleanly with just a hint of hops on the tongue.
I mean, this has more flavor than any macrobrew from the US or Europe. So, in that way it succeeds. It's the step up from Bud that a more discerning drinker wants. So, great for a party to show your guests you have another choice. But, I can't figure out why you'd ever buy it for yourself to drink when there are literally dozens of better brews in the cold case. For those who think this is great beer, move a shelf or two down and get some Pilsner Urquell or Stella Artis. Or Harpoon. Or Sierra Nevada. Or...
Total: 16
Growing up, Heineken and Lowenbrau probably epitomized what good European beer was. In a new world where great craft beer can be gotten almost anywhere, is Heineken still a king amongst brews?
It has a very pale yellow color with a small head. The color is kind of generic. The aroma is what you'd expect for a light lager. Straw. A bit of hops. And it has that European pilsner aroma even though this isn't technically a pilsner. It's a pale lager which to me means generic.
It has a bit of a bitter bite up front. By the middle the earthiness of it opens up. Straw. Earth. I want a little lemon or yeast in it but there is none. And in the back is the flavor of boiled hops. It finishes cleanly with just a hint of hops on the tongue.
I mean, this has more flavor than any macrobrew from the US or Europe. So, in that way it succeeds. It's the step up from Bud that a more discerning drinker wants. So, great for a party to show your guests you have another choice. But, I can't figure out why you'd ever buy it for yourself to drink when there are literally dozens of better brews in the cold case. For those who think this is great beer, move a shelf or two down and get some Pilsner Urquell or Stella Artis. Or Harpoon. Or Sierra Nevada. Or...
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Bear Republic - Red Rocket Ale: 26
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
It's a brown/reddish color and cloudy. It has a nice small creamy head. The aroma is very light but has some malt and citrus in it.
There just a hint of sweetness upfront but very quickly that fades. Bitterness and spice pick up on the edges of the tongue. In the back the hop flavor kicks in. There's a bit of dry nut undertone to it. The finish is a bit oily and stays on the tongue nicely.
This is great. Good flavor but not overpowering. Very drinkable. A bit stronger in alcohol but not overbearing. Definitely a brew you can drink all night.
Total: 26
It's a brown/reddish color and cloudy. It has a nice small creamy head. The aroma is very light but has some malt and citrus in it.
There just a hint of sweetness upfront but very quickly that fades. Bitterness and spice pick up on the edges of the tongue. In the back the hop flavor kicks in. There's a bit of dry nut undertone to it. The finish is a bit oily and stays on the tongue nicely.
This is great. Good flavor but not overpowering. Very drinkable. A bit stronger in alcohol but not overbearing. Definitely a brew you can drink all night.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Bear Republic - Big Bear Black Stout: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 8 Visual: 5 Aroma: 2
Total: 22
It pure black in a glass with a huge chocolate brown head. It has very little aroma which is disappointing.
It creamy and a bit sweet upfront. But quickly a moderate hop bitterness cuts in. Then a nice wallop of black coffee. A bit of caramel. It stays on the tongue for a while. There's just a little bit of alcohol under it all. This clocks in at 8.1% so it's strong but not overpowering.
It's a very nice and big stout. Not one I would grab repeatedly. But worth a few now and then.
Total: 22
It pure black in a glass with a huge chocolate brown head. It has very little aroma which is disappointing.
It creamy and a bit sweet upfront. But quickly a moderate hop bitterness cuts in. Then a nice wallop of black coffee. A bit of caramel. It stays on the tongue for a while. There's just a little bit of alcohol under it all. This clocks in at 8.1% so it's strong but not overpowering.
It's a very nice and big stout. Not one I would grab repeatedly. But worth a few now and then.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Budweiser American Ale: 16
Taste: 5 Finish: 4 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 16
Bud comes out with their first ale. Surprisingly, it looks great. Good amber color with a full head. It has a sweet malt aroma. No hops or citrus.
It is very sweet. Lots of malt up front. There is a bit of dryness at the end which shows there are a few hops in here. But certainly not like what the bottle says. Closing my eyes I'll tell you exactly what this tastes like. Yeungling but sweeter. With a bit of a stretch, it tastes as if Yeungling made an Octoberfest beer. Actually, that's not a bad thing. But, they certainly have not made anything that tastes like an ale. No way, no how. I don't care how they made it. This tastes like a lager.
Total: 16
Bud comes out with their first ale. Surprisingly, it looks great. Good amber color with a full head. It has a sweet malt aroma. No hops or citrus.
It is very sweet. Lots of malt up front. There is a bit of dryness at the end which shows there are a few hops in here. But certainly not like what the bottle says. Closing my eyes I'll tell you exactly what this tastes like. Yeungling but sweeter. With a bit of a stretch, it tastes as if Yeungling made an Octoberfest beer. Actually, that's not a bad thing. But, they certainly have not made anything that tastes like an ale. No way, no how. I don't care how they made it. This tastes like a lager.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Wild Turkey Rye Whisky: 23
Taste:8 Finish: 7 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 23
Tasted on the rocks, no added water.
It has a medium amber color. I'd prefer it a bit darker but it's still appealing. The aroma is light but a good sniff reveals tobacco and hay and just a hint of alcohol.
It's a bit oily up front which is interesting. It is very bold with big caramel, grains, vanilla, and in the back a wallop of alcohol. It is 101 proof . Under it is a bit of sweetness. The flavor lingers and stings the tongue. But it's not harsh. As the ice melts and the mix gets diluted, it definitely mellows a bit. It is very "big country" with flavors of the farm: hay, grains, the earth.
Ryes are typically a bit more bold and lean towards harsh when not done properly. This has a nice balance. Overall I'd say a well done rye. More flavor than its Jim Beam counterpart. I rather like it.
Total: 23
Tasted on the rocks, no added water.
It has a medium amber color. I'd prefer it a bit darker but it's still appealing. The aroma is light but a good sniff reveals tobacco and hay and just a hint of alcohol.
It's a bit oily up front which is interesting. It is very bold with big caramel, grains, vanilla, and in the back a wallop of alcohol. It is 101 proof . Under it is a bit of sweetness. The flavor lingers and stings the tongue. But it's not harsh. As the ice melts and the mix gets diluted, it definitely mellows a bit. It is very "big country" with flavors of the farm: hay, grains, the earth.
Ryes are typically a bit more bold and lean towards harsh when not done properly. This has a nice balance. Overall I'd say a well done rye. More flavor than its Jim Beam counterpart. I rather like it.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Cerveceria Modelo Especial: 8
Taste: 2 Finish: 2 Visual: 3 Aroma: 1
Total: 8
It's cold. It's wet. It tastes like "beer". It smells of boiled malt. It has a cooked down flavor. But, it does have a decent color!
Total: 8
It's cold. It's wet. It tastes like "beer". It smells of boiled malt. It has a cooked down flavor. But, it does have a decent color!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Bear Republic Racer 5: 24
Taste: 8 Finish: 7 Visual: 4 Aroma: 5
Total: 24
Bear Republic is partially credited for bringing ultra-hopped IPAs to California, and ultimately the country.
It has a slightly cloudy yellow color with a hint of orange. It has a full creamy head. It has a grapefruit and spiced aroma.
The bitter hops are front and center. Behind it is a bit of grapefruit but not as much as I expected. In fact, the whole brew is oddly strong yet muted. It's lightly carbonated giving it just a bit of sizzle around the edges of the tongue. The finish has some dry hops on it but it's not overpowering.
It's a step stronger than a good IPA but nothing as powerful as a Stone Arrogant Bastard or Smuttynose Big A IPA. Very drinkable for a big beer.
Total: 24
Bear Republic is partially credited for bringing ultra-hopped IPAs to California, and ultimately the country.
It has a slightly cloudy yellow color with a hint of orange. It has a full creamy head. It has a grapefruit and spiced aroma.
The bitter hops are front and center. Behind it is a bit of grapefruit but not as much as I expected. In fact, the whole brew is oddly strong yet muted. It's lightly carbonated giving it just a bit of sizzle around the edges of the tongue. The finish has some dry hops on it but it's not overpowering.
It's a step stronger than a good IPA but nothing as powerful as a Stone Arrogant Bastard or Smuttynose Big A IPA. Very drinkable for a big beer.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Harpoon Octoberfest: 24
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 24
It has a perfect amber color with a very full and creamy head. The aroma is sweet but faint.
There is the typical sweet malt upfront. Nothing too strong. That washes over the tongue and then a nice amount of bitter hops kicks in the back. So, it has a great balance. The finish is a bit dry and clean and dissipates quickly.
It's missing a bit of that standard Octoberfest flavor. But it's still a solid brew. Very drinkable with just the right amount of sweet and bitterness to it.
Total: 24
It has a perfect amber color with a very full and creamy head. The aroma is sweet but faint.
There is the typical sweet malt upfront. Nothing too strong. That washes over the tongue and then a nice amount of bitter hops kicks in the back. So, it has a great balance. The finish is a bit dry and clean and dissipates quickly.
It's missing a bit of that standard Octoberfest flavor. But it's still a solid brew. Very drinkable with just the right amount of sweet and bitterness to it.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Smuttynose Wheat Wine Ale:27
Taste: 9 Finish: 10 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 27
This brew is made by combining a barleywine with a wheat brew and then hopping it.
It has a very deep mahogany color with very little head. The aroma is of very sweet malt but also of ripe red fruit.
It is a totally unique taste. There is a bit of sweetness upfront. But pretty quickly the alcohol kicks in (10.7%). It's a warming alcohol, not a harsh one. Similar to a red wine. Towards the back the hops show up nicely. Just a bit of bitterness around the tongue to balance out the alcohol. In the finish the ripe red fruit picks up and it ends a bit tart and a bit sweet. I taste some plums and cherries.
A really great brew. Would be great to start a meal or finish it. It's too complex to eat a main course with. I've read that if you cellar this bottle for a while it will tame the alcohol. But cellar it too long (~2 years) and it takes all the punch out of it.
So, pick up 2 bottles from this year. Drink one now and then another next year. It will be a nice treat.
Total: 27
This brew is made by combining a barleywine with a wheat brew and then hopping it.
It has a very deep mahogany color with very little head. The aroma is of very sweet malt but also of ripe red fruit.
It is a totally unique taste. There is a bit of sweetness upfront. But pretty quickly the alcohol kicks in (10.7%). It's a warming alcohol, not a harsh one. Similar to a red wine. Towards the back the hops show up nicely. Just a bit of bitterness around the tongue to balance out the alcohol. In the finish the ripe red fruit picks up and it ends a bit tart and a bit sweet. I taste some plums and cherries.
A really great brew. Would be great to start a meal or finish it. It's too complex to eat a main course with. I've read that if you cellar this bottle for a while it will tame the alcohol. But cellar it too long (~2 years) and it takes all the punch out of it.
So, pick up 2 bottles from this year. Drink one now and then another next year. It will be a nice treat.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Stoudts Oktoberfest: 24
Taste: 7 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 24
It has a great copper color with a full creamy head. It has a very light malt aroma.
It has a moderate sweetness upfront from the malt. Under it is a bit of roasted nuts and caramel. There is a bit of brightness of hops at the back of the tongue. But it finishes very cleanly. In fact, it's a bit dry which I wasn't expecting. Definitely some walnut. It's really nice. I expected a bit more character upfront. But the finish is great.
Total: 24
It has a great copper color with a full creamy head. It has a very light malt aroma.
It has a moderate sweetness upfront from the malt. Under it is a bit of roasted nuts and caramel. There is a bit of brightness of hops at the back of the tongue. But it finishes very cleanly. In fact, it's a bit dry which I wasn't expecting. Definitely some walnut. It's really nice. I expected a bit more character upfront. But the finish is great.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Afflligem Tripel: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 27
It has a great deep yellow, going on orange color. The aroma smells sweet with citrus and floral notes. There is a mild yeast/bread underneath it all.
It has a lot of sweetness upfront. Syrup and mild flowers. The bitterness starts at the edges of the tongue and then kicks in a bit in the back. A very light citrus, orange, is present. It's definitely a medium floral hop flavor. It finishes cleanly with a bit of sweetness and bread remaining. Not a hint of alcohol is present even though it's 8.5%.
A great tasting brew for sipping or enjoy after dinner. Would be great with cake or pie or a bit of dark chocolate. Really good and worth several tries.
Total: 27
It has a great deep yellow, going on orange color. The aroma smells sweet with citrus and floral notes. There is a mild yeast/bread underneath it all.
It has a lot of sweetness upfront. Syrup and mild flowers. The bitterness starts at the edges of the tongue and then kicks in a bit in the back. A very light citrus, orange, is present. It's definitely a medium floral hop flavor. It finishes cleanly with a bit of sweetness and bread remaining. Not a hint of alcohol is present even though it's 8.5%.
A great tasting brew for sipping or enjoy after dinner. Would be great with cake or pie or a bit of dark chocolate. Really good and worth several tries.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Shiner Bock: 17
Taste: 5 Finish: 5 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 17
It has a nice amber color with a medium head. The aroma is light but of roasted malt.
Upfront is definitely more roasted malts. A bit caramelized and sweet. It's a bit fizzy in the middle. At the end a little hop bitterness peaks through. But a mild sweetness is left on the tongue. I definitely get a bit of a toasted and slightly burnt flavor.
A nice clean brew with a bit of flavor. Very drinkable. A step above a macrobrew. Probably on par with Killians or Honey Brown, etc. I've heard a lot of good things about this brew so I'm actually a little disappointed. Again, a solid brew but nothing special either.
Total: 17
It has a nice amber color with a medium head. The aroma is light but of roasted malt.
Upfront is definitely more roasted malts. A bit caramelized and sweet. It's a bit fizzy in the middle. At the end a little hop bitterness peaks through. But a mild sweetness is left on the tongue. I definitely get a bit of a toasted and slightly burnt flavor.
A nice clean brew with a bit of flavor. Very drinkable. A step above a macrobrew. Probably on par with Killians or Honey Brown, etc. I've heard a lot of good things about this brew so I'm actually a little disappointed. Again, a solid brew but nothing special either.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Sam Adams Octoberfest: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 22
Surprisingly, this is the world's best selling Octoberfest. Who knew? Visually it the perfect amber color with just enough head on it. It has a slightly sweet malt aroma.
The sweet malt flavors last throughout the sip. It's a bit creamy but then the hops crisp it up at the end. It has the right "oktoberfest" flavor to it. A very nice aftertaste of sweet malt, brown sugar, and a bit of hops lay on the tongue for a bit.
I'm still waiting for an Oktoberfest to knock my socks off. Sam Adams does a very good job but it's missing that extra umph to take it to the next level. Very drinkable. Nice flavor. Good brew.
Total: 22
Surprisingly, this is the world's best selling Octoberfest. Who knew? Visually it the perfect amber color with just enough head on it. It has a slightly sweet malt aroma.
The sweet malt flavors last throughout the sip. It's a bit creamy but then the hops crisp it up at the end. It has the right "oktoberfest" flavor to it. A very nice aftertaste of sweet malt, brown sugar, and a bit of hops lay on the tongue for a bit.
I'm still waiting for an Oktoberfest to knock my socks off. Sam Adams does a very good job but it's missing that extra umph to take it to the next level. Very drinkable. Nice flavor. Good brew.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Victory Festbier: 18
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 18
Victory makes a very different Oktoberfest brew. It's very light. From the color to the finish, it tastes like a watered down version. Now, saying that, it's extremely drinkable. I mean, I could drink 5 in a row. It's got just enough flavor to keep you coming back. This would be a great game day beer. But not one to savor.
Total: 18
Victory makes a very different Oktoberfest brew. It's very light. From the color to the finish, it tastes like a watered down version. Now, saying that, it's extremely drinkable. I mean, I could drink 5 in a row. It's got just enough flavor to keep you coming back. This would be a great game day beer. But not one to savor.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Duvel: 23
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 23
It's a very pale yellow color and not cloudy like a typical belgian. It has a light yeast and malt aroma. The head is relatively large and a bit too foamy.
First I have to say that it's a bit too carbonated. So, don't follow the bottle with the smoother pour. Get some of that carbonation out of the brew because it interferes with the flavor and is really bloating.
As for the taste, it starts with some bready yeast making it start a little creamy. But then the bitterness of hops and some lemon kick in. At the finish is a kick of alcohol. Throughout it all is a flavor I can't quite figure out. A bit of clove? Some sort of spice. It's vey interesting.
Reading other reviews, this is considered one of the best brews you can buy. I'm not that gonzo about it.
Total: 23
It's a very pale yellow color and not cloudy like a typical belgian. It has a light yeast and malt aroma. The head is relatively large and a bit too foamy.
First I have to say that it's a bit too carbonated. So, don't follow the bottle with the smoother pour. Get some of that carbonation out of the brew because it interferes with the flavor and is really bloating.
As for the taste, it starts with some bready yeast making it start a little creamy. But then the bitterness of hops and some lemon kick in. At the finish is a kick of alcohol. Throughout it all is a flavor I can't quite figure out. A bit of clove? Some sort of spice. It's vey interesting.
Reading other reviews, this is considered one of the best brews you can buy. I'm not that gonzo about it.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Voodoo Love Child: 16
Taste: 5 Finish: 5 Visual: 4 Aroma: 2
Total: 16
Voodoo takes their ale and gives it a 3 month cure in passion fruit, cherries, and raspberries to create a lambic. Visually it's a interesting fruit cooler color. There is extremely little aroma besides a faint fruit juice sweetness.
The taste is pretty bland. It's crisp, clean, and light. There is a light cherry and passion fruit flavor under it all. It certainly doesn't taste like beer. I can say that it is refreshing. But that's about it. I was really expecting something a lot more so overall it's disappointing.
Total: 16
Voodoo takes their ale and gives it a 3 month cure in passion fruit, cherries, and raspberries to create a lambic. Visually it's a interesting fruit cooler color. There is extremely little aroma besides a faint fruit juice sweetness.
The taste is pretty bland. It's crisp, clean, and light. There is a light cherry and passion fruit flavor under it all. It certainly doesn't taste like beer. I can say that it is refreshing. But that's about it. I was really expecting something a lot more so overall it's disappointing.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Landshark Lager: 10
Taste: 3 Finish: 3 Visual: 2 Aroma: 2
Total: 10
Landshark claims to be an island style lager from Margaritaville Brewing. You know, the people who own poor-quality restaurants in your favorite tourist traps. They've managed to create a beer that's remarkably like Corona, but slightly less tasty. There's nothing wrong with the brew, and in fact would be good at a summertime pool party for something light, crisp, and quaffable. So, that's about the best I can say about it.
Total: 10
Landshark claims to be an island style lager from Margaritaville Brewing. You know, the people who own poor-quality restaurants in your favorite tourist traps. They've managed to create a beer that's remarkably like Corona, but slightly less tasty. There's nothing wrong with the brew, and in fact would be good at a summertime pool party for something light, crisp, and quaffable. So, that's about the best I can say about it.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Voodoo Wynona's Big Brown Ale: 21
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 2 Aroma: 5
Total: 21
It smells great with big whiffs of chocolate and roasted coffee. The color is a deep brown. Unfortunately it is way over carbonated and the head was monstrous.
Even when the head settles down, there is still enough carbonation that stabs the tongue. It's slightly sweet but by mid-tongue the bitterness of the chocolate and coffee kicks in. Under it is some bitter hops. It finishes dryly leaving a mild but lasting bitterness on the tongue.
It definitely smells better than it tastes, and it tastes pretty good. Not a top notch brown ale, but pretty good.
Total: 21
It smells great with big whiffs of chocolate and roasted coffee. The color is a deep brown. Unfortunately it is way over carbonated and the head was monstrous.
Even when the head settles down, there is still enough carbonation that stabs the tongue. It's slightly sweet but by mid-tongue the bitterness of the chocolate and coffee kicks in. Under it is some bitter hops. It finishes dryly leaving a mild but lasting bitterness on the tongue.
It definitely smells better than it tastes, and it tastes pretty good. Not a top notch brown ale, but pretty good.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Voodoo White Magick of the Sun: 11
Taste: 3 Finish: 1 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 11
It has a nice deep golden color. The aroma is rather generic hops.
This beer is brewed with coriander, junipers, orange peel, and 12 types of peppercorn. Well, let me tell you. There is definitely peppercorn. I thought it might add a little bite to the brew. It does start nicely with some sweet malt up front, then the tartness of the orange kicks in. The spice is muted. And then the aftertaste is of stale black pepper powder. Horrible! I mean, I get why they tried but it failed.
The 11 rating is mostly off of a nice looking brew. Avoid at all costs.
Total: 11
It has a nice deep golden color. The aroma is rather generic hops.
This beer is brewed with coriander, junipers, orange peel, and 12 types of peppercorn. Well, let me tell you. There is definitely peppercorn. I thought it might add a little bite to the brew. It does start nicely with some sweet malt up front, then the tartness of the orange kicks in. The spice is muted. And then the aftertaste is of stale black pepper powder. Horrible! I mean, I get why they tried but it failed.
The 11 rating is mostly off of a nice looking brew. Avoid at all costs.
Grimbergen Blonde Ale: 26
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
It has a great dark golden color. The head is thin. The aroma is of light hops and straw.
A medium bread/yeast flavor hits upfront with some mild sweetness from the malt. The bread lasts the whole way through from start to aftertaste. Acidic lemon and orange pick up midway through. It ends sweetly. Under it all is coriander and spice.
A very complex brew that is filling yet refreshing. A tad on the sweet side but extremely good.
Total: 26
It has a great dark golden color. The head is thin. The aroma is of light hops and straw.
A medium bread/yeast flavor hits upfront with some mild sweetness from the malt. The bread lasts the whole way through from start to aftertaste. Acidic lemon and orange pick up midway through. It ends sweetly. Under it all is coriander and spice.
A very complex brew that is filling yet refreshing. A tad on the sweet side but extremely good.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Victory Baltic Thunder: 23
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 23
It's a very dark brown with a whiff of malt and chocolate. It's mildly sweet upfront. The hops start to kick in and right after that the dark bitter chocolate. There is a bit of dry spice on the tongue at the finish. There is no hint of alcohol that I can taste.
A very good porter. Full of flavor without overpowering.
Total: 23
It's a very dark brown with a whiff of malt and chocolate. It's mildly sweet upfront. The hops start to kick in and right after that the dark bitter chocolate. There is a bit of dry spice on the tongue at the finish. There is no hint of alcohol that I can taste.
A very good porter. Full of flavor without overpowering.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Ayinger Altbairisch Dunkel: 19
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 19
Ayinger gives us a pretty good dark beer. It certainly is better than other German mass produced beers. But, it's just missing something to take it over the edge. Maybe a bit more caramel or malt would help. But certainly drinkable.
Total: 19
Ayinger gives us a pretty good dark beer. It certainly is better than other German mass produced beers. But, it's just missing something to take it over the edge. Maybe a bit more caramel or malt would help. But certainly drinkable.
Ayinger Ur Weisse: 19
Taste: 7 Finish: 6 Visual: 2 Aroma: 4
Total: 19
A dark weisse is something I've never had before. I can say it looks horrible with a cloudy brown color. The aroma is great. It has the traditional weisse aroma with a sweet malt added. In fact, that's exactly how it tastes. Upfront is a great sweet malt flavor. The mid to back is more wheat and lemon. It finishes cleanly. The front is great. The back is a little weak. So, a pretty good brew that could be better.
Total: 19
A dark weisse is something I've never had before. I can say it looks horrible with a cloudy brown color. The aroma is great. It has the traditional weisse aroma with a sweet malt added. In fact, that's exactly how it tastes. Upfront is a great sweet malt flavor. The mid to back is more wheat and lemon. It finishes cleanly. The front is great. The back is a little weak. So, a pretty good brew that could be better.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Southampton Saison Deluxe: 26
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
It has a great golden orange color that is slightly cloudy. The head is way too large and foamy. The aroma is of bread and lemon.
It has a sharp lemon bite up front. Honey becomes present at the middle of the tongue. And then the baked bread surfaces towards the back. The lemon and citrus stay throughout. The mix of flavors keeps the brew fresh through several glasses.
Total: 26
It has a great golden orange color that is slightly cloudy. The head is way too large and foamy. The aroma is of bread and lemon.
It has a sharp lemon bite up front. Honey becomes present at the middle of the tongue. And then the baked bread surfaces towards the back. The lemon and citrus stay throughout. The mix of flavors keeps the brew fresh through several glasses.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Stone Bitter Chocolate Oatmeal Stout: 26
Taste: 8 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
Stone celebrates its 12th anniversary with this brew. It is a purple black color. A very thin head. No light passes through the glass. The aroma is of malt and chocolate.
Its slightly sweet up front. As it washes over the tongue the bitter chocolate takes hold. It's sweet yet bitter. The dark chocolate coats the mouth. I can't even taste the alcohol but it's 9.2%. It's a little chewy given its oatmeal base. All the flavors linger on the breath over time.
A great beer. Definitely a dessert beer or something to savor over a glass or two. Would be great with a cheese cake or other creamy treat. Definitely grab one while they are available.
Total: 26
Stone celebrates its 12th anniversary with this brew. It is a purple black color. A very thin head. No light passes through the glass. The aroma is of malt and chocolate.
Its slightly sweet up front. As it washes over the tongue the bitter chocolate takes hold. It's sweet yet bitter. The dark chocolate coats the mouth. I can't even taste the alcohol but it's 9.2%. It's a little chewy given its oatmeal base. All the flavors linger on the breath over time.
A great beer. Definitely a dessert beer or something to savor over a glass or two. Would be great with a cheese cake or other creamy treat. Definitely grab one while they are available.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Stoudt's Scarlett Lady: 21
Taste: 7 Finish: 8 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 21
Scarlett Lady is an extra special bitter (ESB). It lives well up to its name. It has a nice amber color except it has a thin head with minimal carbonation. The aroma is of slight malt.
Upon first sip there is a medium malt flavor. It has a little bite around the edge of the tongue. As it washes over, the hops kick in the back and in the aftertaste. The bitterness is perfect. Enough bite to notice, but not nearly as much as a strong IPA.
Total: 21
Scarlett Lady is an extra special bitter (ESB). It lives well up to its name. It has a nice amber color except it has a thin head with minimal carbonation. The aroma is of slight malt.
Upon first sip there is a medium malt flavor. It has a little bite around the edge of the tongue. As it washes over, the hops kick in the back and in the aftertaste. The bitterness is perfect. Enough bite to notice, but not nearly as much as a strong IPA.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Victory 10 Year Alt: 24
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 24
Victory celebrates it's 10 years with a fantastic Alt brew. It's a style I hope to see more of.
It pours a medium brown color with a mild head. The aroma is of light chocolate and ripe fruit.
It has a good sweet flavor upfront. A bit of honey. Some red ripe fruit. In the mid the mild chocolate surfaces and then moves into moderate hops at the finish. At the very end is a bit of alcohol on the breath.
It's a nicely complex brew that sort of has the characteristics of a porter with the finish of a medium IPA. So sweet and chocolate upfront, but bitter hops to finish. Great.
Total: 24
Victory celebrates it's 10 years with a fantastic Alt brew. It's a style I hope to see more of.
It pours a medium brown color with a mild head. The aroma is of light chocolate and ripe fruit.
It has a good sweet flavor upfront. A bit of honey. Some red ripe fruit. In the mid the mild chocolate surfaces and then moves into moderate hops at the finish. At the very end is a bit of alcohol on the breath.
It's a nicely complex brew that sort of has the characteristics of a porter with the finish of a medium IPA. So sweet and chocolate upfront, but bitter hops to finish. Great.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Flying Dog In Heat Wheat: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 22
Well, I certainly like the label where it tells you not to put lemon in it. A good hefe doesn't need it. Visually it's a slightly cloudy and golden color. The aroma is of wheat and a bit of lemon.
Upfront through the middle is a nice but mild tartness of lemon with a hint of malt. It sweetens up a bit at the back with honey. It finishes with a bit of clove and some hops. The finish pulls all those flavors together and leaves the tongue sweet but clean.
A really good wheat beer. I would have liked a bit more lemon or orange. But otherwise solid.
Total: 22
Well, I certainly like the label where it tells you not to put lemon in it. A good hefe doesn't need it. Visually it's a slightly cloudy and golden color. The aroma is of wheat and a bit of lemon.
Upfront through the middle is a nice but mild tartness of lemon with a hint of malt. It sweetens up a bit at the back with honey. It finishes with a bit of clove and some hops. The finish pulls all those flavors together and leaves the tongue sweet but clean.
A really good wheat beer. I would have liked a bit more lemon or orange. But otherwise solid.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Duchesse De Bourgogne: 30
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 5
Total: 30
I think this is my first perfect 30. The Duchesse is a red Belgian Ale. It is a dark ruby red with a bit of brown. The aroma is of sweet ripe red fruit.
It is sweet on the tip of the tongue. Again, lots of plums, grapes, and cherries but then raspberries and some tartness of pomegranate. It's rich and thick. There is a very light malt in the back. The very light fizz has a slight taste of alcohol but also more fruit. In the aftertaste is slight hops.
Okay, this tastes nothing like beer. It's more like a fantastic sparkling wine. It's heaven in a bottle. But it certainly shows that beer can taste nothing like what you expect.
Total: 30
I think this is my first perfect 30. The Duchesse is a red Belgian Ale. It is a dark ruby red with a bit of brown. The aroma is of sweet ripe red fruit.
It is sweet on the tip of the tongue. Again, lots of plums, grapes, and cherries but then raspberries and some tartness of pomegranate. It's rich and thick. There is a very light malt in the back. The very light fizz has a slight taste of alcohol but also more fruit. In the aftertaste is slight hops.
Okay, this tastes nothing like beer. It's more like a fantastic sparkling wine. It's heaven in a bottle. But it certainly shows that beer can taste nothing like what you expect.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Miller High Life: 5
Taste: 1 Finish: 2 Visual: 1 Aroma: 1
Total: 5
I mean, this is the high life, right? Please, drink this out of a can. In a glass it's soapy and has a wonderful flavor of boiled rotten vegetables. In a can it retains its generic fizzy beer taste which isn't completely terrible. And, don't forget to drink it extremely cold unless the flavor get you.
Total: 5
I mean, this is the high life, right? Please, drink this out of a can. In a glass it's soapy and has a wonderful flavor of boiled rotten vegetables. In a can it retains its generic fizzy beer taste which isn't completely terrible. And, don't forget to drink it extremely cold unless the flavor get you.
Friday, July 4, 2008
North Coast Acme IPA: 24
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 24
Another award winner from North Coast with this IPA pulling in multiple silver medals over the years in the World Beer Championships.
The color is an odd amber and the brew is cloudy. The head is full and creamy. It has a general malt aroma.
Wow, it has a great flavor. There is definitely some nice sweetness from the malt. Some floral undertones. A smidge of honey. And then bold hops pour through. Not overpowering but strong and thick. It finishes pretty well leaving a nice bitterness on the tongue without crushing it. A bit of the alcohol peeks through (6.5%). It's a perfect package of flavor and finish. Excellent.
Total: 24
Another award winner from North Coast with this IPA pulling in multiple silver medals over the years in the World Beer Championships.
The color is an odd amber and the brew is cloudy. The head is full and creamy. It has a general malt aroma.
Wow, it has a great flavor. There is definitely some nice sweetness from the malt. Some floral undertones. A smidge of honey. And then bold hops pour through. Not overpowering but strong and thick. It finishes pretty well leaving a nice bitterness on the tongue without crushing it. A bit of the alcohol peeks through (6.5%). It's a perfect package of flavor and finish. Excellent.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Miller Genuine Draft: 7
Taste: 2 Finish: 3 Visual: 1 Aroma: 1
Total: 7
My question is, draft from where? I know when this came out years before the craft beer movement, the fact that the beer tasted like it was "on draft" was something special. The idea just doesn't hold up today but the beer lives on.
What can I say? It has a generic American "beer" flavor to it. Fizzy. A minor bite up front. Bland bitterness in the end. What I can say about MGD is it is smooth in that you could drink 50 of them without any build up of bad aftertastes. For some reason I prefer it right from the can than poured into a glass. It just gives it that special Americaness to it.
Total: 7
My question is, draft from where? I know when this came out years before the craft beer movement, the fact that the beer tasted like it was "on draft" was something special. The idea just doesn't hold up today but the beer lives on.
What can I say? It has a generic American "beer" flavor to it. Fizzy. A minor bite up front. Bland bitterness in the end. What I can say about MGD is it is smooth in that you could drink 50 of them without any build up of bad aftertastes. For some reason I prefer it right from the can than poured into a glass. It just gives it that special Americaness to it.
Honey Moon: 23
Taste: 7 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 23
From the makers of Blue Moon (well, Coors) comes an even more summery beer with Honey Moon. It's a wheat beer with honey and orange peel. As with Blue Moon, Honey Moon is a nice entry into honey brews. In fact it won the Gold at the American Beer Festival in the Honey Lager/Ale category.
Overall it's a pretty good beer. The honey is definitely pronounced. The sweetness hits you. The honey gives the brew a bit of thickness. And it coats the tongue nicely. It goes down cleanly and easily. There is a bit of orange peel but I'd like it if there were more. I hate to say it, but I would put an orange wedge in this to give it a bit more bite. Definitely worth a drink in the summer to quench a thirst or enjoy slowly.
Oddly, Blue Moon Brewing is owned by Coors but isn't mentioned anywhere on the label or even the website. And, it's imported from Canada to Colorado. So, you can even say your drinking an import.
Total: 23
From the makers of Blue Moon (well, Coors) comes an even more summery beer with Honey Moon. It's a wheat beer with honey and orange peel. As with Blue Moon, Honey Moon is a nice entry into honey brews. In fact it won the Gold at the American Beer Festival in the Honey Lager/Ale category.
Overall it's a pretty good beer. The honey is definitely pronounced. The sweetness hits you. The honey gives the brew a bit of thickness. And it coats the tongue nicely. It goes down cleanly and easily. There is a bit of orange peel but I'd like it if there were more. I hate to say it, but I would put an orange wedge in this to give it a bit more bite. Definitely worth a drink in the summer to quench a thirst or enjoy slowly.
Oddly, Blue Moon Brewing is owned by Coors but isn't mentioned anywhere on the label or even the website. And, it's imported from Canada to Colorado. So, you can even say your drinking an import.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Lancaster Hop Hog IPA: 16
Taste: 5 Finish: 5 Visual: 4 Aroma: 2
Total: 16
This beer is so totally wrong. With a name like Hop Hog IPA, I expect a big bold hop flavor with citrus and floral flavors. Wrong! This is an all malt, super malt brew. It smells like malt. It tastes like malt. The aftertaste is of malt. Now, normally that would be bad for the right type of brew. Change the name and I would probably like this. But it is not a hop hog, or hop dog, or hop anything else.
Total: 16
This beer is so totally wrong. With a name like Hop Hog IPA, I expect a big bold hop flavor with citrus and floral flavors. Wrong! This is an all malt, super malt brew. It smells like malt. It tastes like malt. The aftertaste is of malt. Now, normally that would be bad for the right type of brew. Change the name and I would probably like this. But it is not a hop hog, or hop dog, or hop anything else.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Blue Moon: 20
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 20
Blue Moon is a nice entry level Wheat beer made by Coors. If you like this it can open up a whole new world of beers to you.
Visually it is cloudy as it should be. Decent creamy head. The color is a golden orange. The aroma is good of bread and oranges.
The flavor is light be there definitely are several highlights. First is citrus orange and lemon peel. Then the yeast kicks in. The combination lasts through the aftertaste. A hint of coriander. Overall pretty good.
An oddity is that the bottle recommends a slice of orange. Now, most places will serve wheat beers with a slice of orange in it. That's typically a "novice" thing to do and more traditionalist drink it straight. So, it's odd that the bottle recommends it. The orange (or lemon) will have accent the already present citrus flavors. But it does it at the expense of the breadiness. And that's another point. This beer has a yeast flavor. It should be more of baked bread. So, it's not quite as good as it should be. Finally, a really good wheat will have more spice undertone to it. Blue Moon is more generic.
For Coors, this is an A+. But, compared to some great German and European brews, this is definitely a cut below.
Total: 20
Blue Moon is a nice entry level Wheat beer made by Coors. If you like this it can open up a whole new world of beers to you.
Visually it is cloudy as it should be. Decent creamy head. The color is a golden orange. The aroma is good of bread and oranges.
The flavor is light be there definitely are several highlights. First is citrus orange and lemon peel. Then the yeast kicks in. The combination lasts through the aftertaste. A hint of coriander. Overall pretty good.
An oddity is that the bottle recommends a slice of orange. Now, most places will serve wheat beers with a slice of orange in it. That's typically a "novice" thing to do and more traditionalist drink it straight. So, it's odd that the bottle recommends it. The orange (or lemon) will have accent the already present citrus flavors. But it does it at the expense of the breadiness. And that's another point. This beer has a yeast flavor. It should be more of baked bread. So, it's not quite as good as it should be. Finally, a really good wheat will have more spice undertone to it. Blue Moon is more generic.
For Coors, this is an A+. But, compared to some great German and European brews, this is definitely a cut below.
Gentleman Jack: 25
Taste: 8 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 25
Gentleman Jack is a double charcoal filtered version of Jack Daniels. It retains all the same qualities and characteristics of regular Jack. It has the same caramel, tobacco, and earthy flavors and aromas. The main difference is the finish. Instead of that normal whiskey "aah" on the exhale, Gentleman Jack is pretty much completely smooth and no harshness in the finish. So, it's all the flavor but none of the boldness. Is it worth an extra 50%? Does it compete with higher end craft whiskeys? Pretty much yes. It is missing some of the more intricate flavors of more expensive brands such as vanilla, spice, or ripe fruit. But most of those brands are 100% more than Jack so this is a nice compromise.
Total: 25
Gentleman Jack is a double charcoal filtered version of Jack Daniels. It retains all the same qualities and characteristics of regular Jack. It has the same caramel, tobacco, and earthy flavors and aromas. The main difference is the finish. Instead of that normal whiskey "aah" on the exhale, Gentleman Jack is pretty much completely smooth and no harshness in the finish. So, it's all the flavor but none of the boldness. Is it worth an extra 50%? Does it compete with higher end craft whiskeys? Pretty much yes. It is missing some of the more intricate flavors of more expensive brands such as vanilla, spice, or ripe fruit. But most of those brands are 100% more than Jack so this is a nice compromise.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Rolling Rock: 8
Taste: 2 Finish: 3 Visual: 1 Aroma: 2
Total: 8
Good old Rock. It embodies that macrobrew lager flavor. Lots of boiled corn flavor. The sweet corn taste lasts throughout the drink. Pretty much no hops or bitterness in it. Fizzy carbonation. A bit of a metallic taste as well. But, it isn't horrible. It's drinkable. And on a hot day like today next to a grill, yes, it can even be refreshing.
Total: 8
Good old Rock. It embodies that macrobrew lager flavor. Lots of boiled corn flavor. The sweet corn taste lasts throughout the drink. Pretty much no hops or bitterness in it. Fizzy carbonation. A bit of a metallic taste as well. But, it isn't horrible. It's drinkable. And on a hot day like today next to a grill, yes, it can even be refreshing.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Smuttynose Shoals Pale Ale: 23
Taste: 8 Finish: 7 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 23
Not all Pale Ales are pale. Smuttynose serves up a medium chestnut colored brew. The head is full. It has a very nice aroma of malt, coffee, and caramel.
It has a nice malt upfront. But in the middle the coffee and caramel kick in. In the back the hops perk up and they stay with you on down and through the exhale. It leaves a nice toasted hop aftertaste. Overall it has a very dry character to it.
The flavor is of medium intensity and definitely present. It also is a filling brew. Recommend having a lighter beer in between every one or two to prevent fatigue. A very high quality brew.
Total: 23
Not all Pale Ales are pale. Smuttynose serves up a medium chestnut colored brew. The head is full. It has a very nice aroma of malt, coffee, and caramel.
It has a nice malt upfront. But in the middle the coffee and caramel kick in. In the back the hops perk up and they stay with you on down and through the exhale. It leaves a nice toasted hop aftertaste. Overall it has a very dry character to it.
The flavor is of medium intensity and definitely present. It also is a filling brew. Recommend having a lighter beer in between every one or two to prevent fatigue. A very high quality brew.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Budweiser: 8
Taste: 3 Finish: 2 Visual: 1 Aroma: 2
Total: 8
The king. The best selling beer in the world. Bud.
It has a very pale straw yellow color. The head is foamy instead of creamy and very brittle. The aroma is of "hops" and corn. Overall, a very poor showing.
It has a very mild sweetness under the carbonation. Definitely corn. In the middle it's a bit soapy. And at the back there is a bit of hops. And then an odd straw, maybe it's corn husks, flavor with a touch of hops lingers. Oh, maybe that's the beechwood aging (wood chips they let sit in the vats during fermentation).
Well, the best I can say is that it doesn't taste horrible! It's certainly not good but I certainly didn't want to spit it out either. There was nothing off about it. Just mild all american beer flavoring. And isn't that what the masses want to drink?
Total: 8
The king. The best selling beer in the world. Bud.
It has a very pale straw yellow color. The head is foamy instead of creamy and very brittle. The aroma is of "hops" and corn. Overall, a very poor showing.
It has a very mild sweetness under the carbonation. Definitely corn. In the middle it's a bit soapy. And at the back there is a bit of hops. And then an odd straw, maybe it's corn husks, flavor with a touch of hops lingers. Oh, maybe that's the beechwood aging (wood chips they let sit in the vats during fermentation).
Well, the best I can say is that it doesn't taste horrible! It's certainly not good but I certainly didn't want to spit it out either. There was nothing off about it. Just mild all american beer flavoring. And isn't that what the masses want to drink?
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Hook and Ladder Golden Ale: 18
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 18
Hook and Ladder was founded by a firefighter. It donates about half a cent per bottle sold to local burn treatment centers. It asks its distributors to match the donation. Definitely a worthy cause. Let's see how the beer is.
It has a light amber color with a full head. It has a very clean aroma with a touch of malt.
It has a nice malt flavor throughout. In fact, it's more pronounced in the bottle than poured into a glass. There is a hint of honey that stays on the tongue. Even with the pronounced sweetness of malt and honey, under it all it still tastes like a mass produced American beer. It reminds me a lot of JW Dundee's Honey Brown Lager.
So, a good beer for a worthy cause.
Total: 18
Hook and Ladder was founded by a firefighter. It donates about half a cent per bottle sold to local burn treatment centers. It asks its distributors to match the donation. Definitely a worthy cause. Let's see how the beer is.
It has a light amber color with a full head. It has a very clean aroma with a touch of malt.
It has a nice malt flavor throughout. In fact, it's more pronounced in the bottle than poured into a glass. There is a hint of honey that stays on the tongue. Even with the pronounced sweetness of malt and honey, under it all it still tastes like a mass produced American beer. It reminds me a lot of JW Dundee's Honey Brown Lager.
So, a good beer for a worthy cause.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Slyfox Royal Weisse: 15
Taste: 5 Finish: 5 Visual: 3 Aroma: 2
Total: 15
Strangely, I prefer Slyfox drunk right out of the can. It has a very bland aroma. The color a golden. Nothing special.
This definitely has an overall Weisse flavor. A little bit bready. Some yeast. Straw. It could use some lemon or grapefruit to give it more character. It leaves a bit of baked bread on the tongue.
But really there's nothing special about this. I'd certainly reach for this over a can of Coors Light. Slyfox is a rather strange brewery. Some of their beers are excellent. Others are just average. I was hoping for more consistency from them.
Total: 15
Strangely, I prefer Slyfox drunk right out of the can. It has a very bland aroma. The color a golden. Nothing special.
This definitely has an overall Weisse flavor. A little bit bready. Some yeast. Straw. It could use some lemon or grapefruit to give it more character. It leaves a bit of baked bread on the tongue.
But really there's nothing special about this. I'd certainly reach for this over a can of Coors Light. Slyfox is a rather strange brewery. Some of their beers are excellent. Others are just average. I was hoping for more consistency from them.
Slyfox Oktoberfest: 19
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 19
This is a pretty good beer but not a great Oktoberfest. It has a very malty sweet character to it throughout. It's very tasty. It finishes nicely with smooth malt and just a hint of hops. It kind of has a caramel middle. Unfortunately, to me it doesn't taste like an Oktoberfest. It's similar but is missing something that the German brews have. I can't put my finger on it.
Overall, a very drinkable beer that has a good sweet flavor and a bit of character.
Total: 19
This is a pretty good beer but not a great Oktoberfest. It has a very malty sweet character to it throughout. It's very tasty. It finishes nicely with smooth malt and just a hint of hops. It kind of has a caramel middle. Unfortunately, to me it doesn't taste like an Oktoberfest. It's similar but is missing something that the German brews have. I can't put my finger on it.
Overall, a very drinkable beer that has a good sweet flavor and a bit of character.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Slyfox Phoenix Pale Ale: 24
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 24
It has a very nice copper color to it with a moderate head. The aroma is a nice blend of malt and hops.
It has a very mild sweetness upfront. A little bit of honey. By mid-tongue a little floral hops starts to kick in. At the back is a moderate hop bitterness and then the dry and tart hop exhale. It stays on the tongue for a while but not too long. I also get a bit of grapefuit.
A very nice medium hopped brew. It sits nicely between a Sam Adams and a extremely hopped beer like Arrogant Bastard. Perfect for days you want a bit more bite and want to enjoy say 3 or more beers.
Total: 24
It has a very nice copper color to it with a moderate head. The aroma is a nice blend of malt and hops.
It has a very mild sweetness upfront. A little bit of honey. By mid-tongue a little floral hops starts to kick in. At the back is a moderate hop bitterness and then the dry and tart hop exhale. It stays on the tongue for a while but not too long. I also get a bit of grapefuit.
A very nice medium hopped brew. It sits nicely between a Sam Adams and a extremely hopped beer like Arrogant Bastard. Perfect for days you want a bit more bite and want to enjoy say 3 or more beers.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Slyfox Gang Aft Agley: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 22
It has a nice dark brown color with a hint of red. The head is small. The aroma is of sweet malt.
It has a decent sweet malt upfront along with the sharpness of the carbonation. Towards the mid the cream starts to pick up. In the back and on the finish is a very mild chocolate flavor. It leaves a bit of chocolate on the tongue. There is a tinge of hops and smoke under it all.
A flavorful yet mild scottish ale. It's close to a porter in character. Very drinkable.
Total: 22
It has a nice dark brown color with a hint of red. The head is small. The aroma is of sweet malt.
It has a decent sweet malt upfront along with the sharpness of the carbonation. Towards the mid the cream starts to pick up. In the back and on the finish is a very mild chocolate flavor. It leaves a bit of chocolate on the tongue. There is a tinge of hops and smoke under it all.
A flavorful yet mild scottish ale. It's close to a porter in character. Very drinkable.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Slyfox Pikeland Pils: 6
Taste: 2 Finish: 0 Visual: 3 Aroma: 1
Total: 6
I really hate this beer. It has a very metallic and bitter flavor to it. First, a pilsner should be a bit sweet, with more malt and just a kiss of hops. This drinks like an IPA. No sweetness. And just a real funky aftertaste. Now, this is a six of cans. But, cans shouldn't impart any flavor. But that's what I taste and it lingers horribly on the tongue. Just really a bad beer. Slyfox, what happened?!
Total: 6
I really hate this beer. It has a very metallic and bitter flavor to it. First, a pilsner should be a bit sweet, with more malt and just a kiss of hops. This drinks like an IPA. No sweetness. And just a real funky aftertaste. Now, this is a six of cans. But, cans shouldn't impart any flavor. But that's what I taste and it lingers horribly on the tongue. Just really a bad beer. Slyfox, what happened?!
Slyfox Dunkel Lager: 19
Taste: 7 Finish: 5 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 19
It has a nice deep brown color with a hint of red. The head is full and creamy. It has a mild sweet malt aroma.
Overall it has a nice sweet malt flavor upfront and throughout. The mid to back is very smooth and creamy. On the back is a bit of hops. It's a nice brew with an inoffensive flavor. Unfortunately there is a CO2 aftertaste. It's like the brew needed another day or two before bottling. This takes a pretty good beer and knocks it down a bit. But, drunk straight from the can the CO2 flavor disappears and the malt flavor stands out more.
Perhaps this is just a bad six pack. Without the CO2 it's a pretty good brew if you want an easy going drink that still has some flavor. I'd put it up against Magic Hat #9 or Negra Modelo in flavor. I cautiously recommend.
Total: 19
It has a nice deep brown color with a hint of red. The head is full and creamy. It has a mild sweet malt aroma.
Overall it has a nice sweet malt flavor upfront and throughout. The mid to back is very smooth and creamy. On the back is a bit of hops. It's a nice brew with an inoffensive flavor. Unfortunately there is a CO2 aftertaste. It's like the brew needed another day or two before bottling. This takes a pretty good beer and knocks it down a bit. But, drunk straight from the can the CO2 flavor disappears and the malt flavor stands out more.
Perhaps this is just a bad six pack. Without the CO2 it's a pretty good brew if you want an easy going drink that still has some flavor. I'd put it up against Magic Hat #9 or Negra Modelo in flavor. I cautiously recommend.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Ommegang Three Philosophers: 23
Taste: 7 Finish: 8 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 23
Three Philosophers is a Belgian-Style Quadrupel mixed with a cherry lambic. It pours well with a very deep ruby color. It has a full head. It has a very mild malt aroma with a bit of cherry.
It has a oddly creamy yet dry feel to it. There is mild dark chocolate here. A hint of caramel. Lots of sweet malt. Some ripe fruit from cherries to raisins. For me there is a bit too much carbonation even with the full head.
In the back and on the exhale is a very strong dark cherry flavor. There is a faint flavor of alcohol as well. Very nice.
It's a nice brew that is very complex. Reading other reviews, they peg this of top tier quality. I'm a little less impressed. All the flavors are subtle. I'd like a little more punch besides the dark cherry finish.
Total: 23
Three Philosophers is a Belgian-Style Quadrupel mixed with a cherry lambic. It pours well with a very deep ruby color. It has a full head. It has a very mild malt aroma with a bit of cherry.
It has a oddly creamy yet dry feel to it. There is mild dark chocolate here. A hint of caramel. Lots of sweet malt. Some ripe fruit from cherries to raisins. For me there is a bit too much carbonation even with the full head.
In the back and on the exhale is a very strong dark cherry flavor. There is a faint flavor of alcohol as well. Very nice.
It's a nice brew that is very complex. Reading other reviews, they peg this of top tier quality. I'm a little less impressed. All the flavors are subtle. I'd like a little more punch besides the dark cherry finish.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
North Coast Brewing - Red Seal Ale: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 5
Total: 27
Apparently, the Beverage Tasting Institute claims this is one of the top 10 breweries in the world. Red Seal Ale has won the Gold Medal seven times in the World Beer Championships. And looking at their other brews, they got a lot of heavyweights in there that are well respected. Got to try it!
The head is a bit too much if your don't pour it carefully. The color is a perfect amber. The aroma is fantastic with a balance of the sweet malt and the bitterness of the hops.
It has a very nice sweet flavor upfront with a bit of sizzle around the edge of the tongue. It washes over nicely. In the back the hops start to kick in. In the first few sips the hops really shine. Lots of bold hop flavor and bitterness. But as the bottle goes down, it mellows a bit. The malt sweetness smooths things over and really creates a nice balanced brew. Also there is a nice floral note to it from the hops.
At first I wanted to knock it a bit. The first few sips make me think big bold IPA. When it mellowed out I was disappointed. But, this isn't an IPA. It's an amber ale. It should be a bit sweet and have some bite. Given that, I think this is near perfection. It's a brew that has lots of flavor but never overpowers. A beer almost anyone can appreciate. North Coast, you've got a new fan.
Total: 27
Apparently, the Beverage Tasting Institute claims this is one of the top 10 breweries in the world. Red Seal Ale has won the Gold Medal seven times in the World Beer Championships. And looking at their other brews, they got a lot of heavyweights in there that are well respected. Got to try it!
The head is a bit too much if your don't pour it carefully. The color is a perfect amber. The aroma is fantastic with a balance of the sweet malt and the bitterness of the hops.
It has a very nice sweet flavor upfront with a bit of sizzle around the edge of the tongue. It washes over nicely. In the back the hops start to kick in. In the first few sips the hops really shine. Lots of bold hop flavor and bitterness. But as the bottle goes down, it mellows a bit. The malt sweetness smooths things over and really creates a nice balanced brew. Also there is a nice floral note to it from the hops.
At first I wanted to knock it a bit. The first few sips make me think big bold IPA. When it mellowed out I was disappointed. But, this isn't an IPA. It's an amber ale. It should be a bit sweet and have some bite. Given that, I think this is near perfection. It's a brew that has lots of flavor but never overpowers. A beer almost anyone can appreciate. North Coast, you've got a new fan.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Het Anker - Gouden Carolus Triple: 28
Taste: 10 Finish: 9 Aroma: 4 Visual: 5
Total: 28
It pours with a huge head that takes a while to subside. It has a beautiful golden color with a hint of red. The aroma is of sweet malt with a floral undertone.
Awesome. It is sweet with malt and honey. A bit of orange peel. There is a bit of bitterness around the edges of the tongue. In the back it blooms with spice, raisins, and floral notes. It ends sweetly and sits nicely in the mouth for a while. After a few sips there is a slight aftertaste of alcohol. But it doesn't get in the way.
Another fantastic brew from Het Anker. Amazingly complex. It would be great at the start or finish of a meal, but not during. Near perfection.
Total: 28
It pours with a huge head that takes a while to subside. It has a beautiful golden color with a hint of red. The aroma is of sweet malt with a floral undertone.
Awesome. It is sweet with malt and honey. A bit of orange peel. There is a bit of bitterness around the edges of the tongue. In the back it blooms with spice, raisins, and floral notes. It ends sweetly and sits nicely in the mouth for a while. After a few sips there is a slight aftertaste of alcohol. But it doesn't get in the way.
Another fantastic brew from Het Anker. Amazingly complex. It would be great at the start or finish of a meal, but not during. Near perfection.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Hoegaarden White Ale: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 22
The new "it" beer is Hoegaarden White. It's an extremely refreshing wheat beer brewed with coriander and orange peel. It pours well and has a bright pale yellow color which is clouded by the yeast. Visually very nice. The aroma is mild of bread and citrus. Could use a bit more umph.
The flavor is very light. Just a touch of bitterness. The coriander really punches through. Personally, I don't get the orange peel. I get lemon peel and juice. But mild. There is a mild tartness to it as well.
I like the beer. It would be great on a hot summer day (which is what it's made for). But the flavor is light. It could use a bit more to it. I compare it very closely to Blue Moon. Hoegaarden is probably a tad more subtle. A very good beer that is step back from great. But this is probably one of the best beers on tap in many places so enjoy.
Total: 22
The new "it" beer is Hoegaarden White. It's an extremely refreshing wheat beer brewed with coriander and orange peel. It pours well and has a bright pale yellow color which is clouded by the yeast. Visually very nice. The aroma is mild of bread and citrus. Could use a bit more umph.
The flavor is very light. Just a touch of bitterness. The coriander really punches through. Personally, I don't get the orange peel. I get lemon peel and juice. But mild. There is a mild tartness to it as well.
I like the beer. It would be great on a hot summer day (which is what it's made for). But the flavor is light. It could use a bit more to it. I compare it very closely to Blue Moon. Hoegaarden is probably a tad more subtle. A very good beer that is step back from great. But this is probably one of the best beers on tap in many places so enjoy.
Brasserie Dieu Du Ciel - Peche Mortel: 29
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 29
A Canadian Imperial Stout, infused with coffee, and clocking in at 9.5% alcohol. It is black black black with the darkest head I've seen yet. A good whiff of coffee and malt.
Wow, that's powerful stuff. A moderate bitterness hits in the front. And then the dark unsweetened coffee kicks in the middle of the tongue. Okay, beyond just coffee. It's espresso. It sizzles on the way down and the exhale is all espresso and bitter dark chocolate. Did I mention it's strong? I really want to put some sugar in it! I also get a hint of smoke in the aftertaste. And boy does it stay with you. But this is a perfect example of an imperial stout and then upgraded with coffee.
It certainly isn't an everyday beer. It's a slow sip and savor type. Maybe you need a sweet pils every third sip to cleanse the palate. Otherwise, perfection.
Total: 29
A Canadian Imperial Stout, infused with coffee, and clocking in at 9.5% alcohol. It is black black black with the darkest head I've seen yet. A good whiff of coffee and malt.
Wow, that's powerful stuff. A moderate bitterness hits in the front. And then the dark unsweetened coffee kicks in the middle of the tongue. Okay, beyond just coffee. It's espresso. It sizzles on the way down and the exhale is all espresso and bitter dark chocolate. Did I mention it's strong? I really want to put some sugar in it! I also get a hint of smoke in the aftertaste. And boy does it stay with you. But this is a perfect example of an imperial stout and then upgraded with coffee.
It certainly isn't an everyday beer. It's a slow sip and savor type. Maybe you need a sweet pils every third sip to cleanse the palate. Otherwise, perfection.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Molson XXX: 9
Taste: 2 Finish: 2 Visual: 3 Aroma: 2
Total: 9
Molson labels this as Super Premium. And it clocks in at 7.3% alcohol. What to god did they do to this thing? First you notice how sweet this thing is. And I don't mean malt. I mean sugary syrupy sweet. In the mid the alcohol kicks in. It's raw and numbs the mouth a bit. And then it finishes with more sweet. As you drink more the sweetness keeps rising and the mouth goes a bit number. It's really a bad brew.
Total: 9
Molson labels this as Super Premium. And it clocks in at 7.3% alcohol. What to god did they do to this thing? First you notice how sweet this thing is. And I don't mean malt. I mean sugary syrupy sweet. In the mid the alcohol kicks in. It's raw and numbs the mouth a bit. And then it finishes with more sweet. As you drink more the sweetness keeps rising and the mouth goes a bit number. It's really a bad brew.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Michelob Lager: 12
Taste: 4 Finish: 3 Visual: 3 Aroma: 2
Total: 12
It pours with a thick head that holds on for a bit. I'm really surprised about the color. It's a dark yellow with a tinge of orange to it. There is a faint malt aroma to it.
Surprisingly it has has good sweet flavor. Decent malt. There is a bit too much fizz to it though. In the back just a hint of hops. It then leaves behind the aftertaste of "American beer" which is not all that appealing.
I expecting this to be pretty bland. While it certainly isn't a German pils, it has a few characteristics that were good. I like the sweetness and the color. But, the fizz keeps building after multiple sips which effectively masks any flavor to it. So, what could have been a decent American pils turns into substandard quickly.
Total: 12
It pours with a thick head that holds on for a bit. I'm really surprised about the color. It's a dark yellow with a tinge of orange to it. There is a faint malt aroma to it.
Surprisingly it has has good sweet flavor. Decent malt. There is a bit too much fizz to it though. In the back just a hint of hops. It then leaves behind the aftertaste of "American beer" which is not all that appealing.
I expecting this to be pretty bland. While it certainly isn't a German pils, it has a few characteristics that were good. I like the sweetness and the color. But, the fizz keeps building after multiple sips which effectively masks any flavor to it. So, what could have been a decent American pils turns into substandard quickly.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Victory Baltic Thunder - 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 22
Baltic Thunder is a very deep brown, going on black. The head is thin but a dark cream color. The aroma is very mild of malt.
It glides over the tongue smoothly. There's a mild sweetness up front but the flavor really kicks in at the middle and back of the tongue. There the chocolate ramps up nicely. The exhale is chocolately as well. Then to wrap it up is a flavor of dry hops and mild bitterness. It's not a heavy beer and you could easily drink a few without feeling bloated.
It's a good brew. It's solid. But it's not great. Definitely worth trying if you want a good porter that isn't too thick.
Total: 22
Baltic Thunder is a very deep brown, going on black. The head is thin but a dark cream color. The aroma is very mild of malt.
It glides over the tongue smoothly. There's a mild sweetness up front but the flavor really kicks in at the middle and back of the tongue. There the chocolate ramps up nicely. The exhale is chocolately as well. Then to wrap it up is a flavor of dry hops and mild bitterness. It's not a heavy beer and you could easily drink a few without feeling bloated.
It's a good brew. It's solid. But it's not great. Definitely worth trying if you want a good porter that isn't too thick.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Dogfish Head Burton Baton: 26
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 4 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
Burton Baton is a hybrid brew called an Imperial IPA. I assume it will be bold and very hoppy.
The hops hit the nose pretty good. A whiff of malt sweetness is also present. Visually it's a very cloudy deep red.
A great sweetness first hits the tongue. Like raisins and plums and fruit juice. It starts to change over the mid of the tongue as the hops start to kick in. But nothing bold, just a quality mixture of hops and the fruit. It dries out at the end with the hops, again not heavy, just enough to clean up the pallet. Again, the ripe fruit flavor lingers on the tongue. Throughout is a bit of sharpness at the edge of the tongue. It's nice.
It's a very unique beer. It reminds me of a dark Belgian. Also surprising is that it's 10% alcohol. You'd never know it. Another score for Dogfish Head. Keep'em coming.
Total: 26
Burton Baton is a hybrid brew called an Imperial IPA. I assume it will be bold and very hoppy.
The hops hit the nose pretty good. A whiff of malt sweetness is also present. Visually it's a very cloudy deep red.
A great sweetness first hits the tongue. Like raisins and plums and fruit juice. It starts to change over the mid of the tongue as the hops start to kick in. But nothing bold, just a quality mixture of hops and the fruit. It dries out at the end with the hops, again not heavy, just enough to clean up the pallet. Again, the ripe fruit flavor lingers on the tongue. Throughout is a bit of sharpness at the edge of the tongue. It's nice.
It's a very unique beer. It reminds me of a dark Belgian. Also surprising is that it's 10% alcohol. You'd never know it. Another score for Dogfish Head. Keep'em coming.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Leffe Blonde: 22
Taste: 8 Finish: 6 Visual: 3 Aroma: 5
Total: 22
Thanks, Reg, for introducing me to this blonde ale.
It has a wonderful aroma of yeast and bread. A touch of lemon. It's a deep golden with a moderate creamy head. But unlike most belgians, it is not bottle conditioned so it clear instead of cloudy. For this style that's not a good thing.
The flavor is very similar to the aroma. Lots of yeast and bread up until the finish. In the mid the lemon starts to enter along with some floral notes. The finish kicks up the tartness and a bit of hop bitterness. And throughout it all is the malt sweetness. It has a very thick mouth feel. In the exhale is a bit of alcohol.
A very solid brew. Not the best. And a few points off for being filtered instead of bottle conditioned. But it's got all the right components. Perhaps the alcohol finish could be cleaned up a bit. More lemon and tartness would be good. Oh, and I drank one with ham and potatoes. It was a great compliment to the dish. It was strong enough to contrast the saltiness of the ham and blended well with the starchy potatoes.
Total: 22
Thanks, Reg, for introducing me to this blonde ale.
It has a wonderful aroma of yeast and bread. A touch of lemon. It's a deep golden with a moderate creamy head. But unlike most belgians, it is not bottle conditioned so it clear instead of cloudy. For this style that's not a good thing.
The flavor is very similar to the aroma. Lots of yeast and bread up until the finish. In the mid the lemon starts to enter along with some floral notes. The finish kicks up the tartness and a bit of hop bitterness. And throughout it all is the malt sweetness. It has a very thick mouth feel. In the exhale is a bit of alcohol.
A very solid brew. Not the best. And a few points off for being filtered instead of bottle conditioned. But it's got all the right components. Perhaps the alcohol finish could be cleaned up a bit. More lemon and tartness would be good. Oh, and I drank one with ham and potatoes. It was a great compliment to the dish. It was strong enough to contrast the saltiness of the ham and blended well with the starchy potatoes.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Spaten Premium: 22
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 22
My last stop in Germany for Pils/Helles for a while. So far, nothing approaches Pilsner Urquell.
Visually, Spaten looks A+. Nice creamy moderate head. Perfect golden color. Unfortunately, the aroma is faint and some mild sourness is present.
Luckily, there is no sourness in taste. It has a nice soft mouth feel. It starts and finishes a bit sweet. A touch of honey. A little bit of bite of lemon. And at the end is just a bit of hops in the breath. And throughout it's crisp and clean.
Pretty good. A solid Helles. It could use a bit more honey or lemon. But otherwise definitely something worth grabbing when you're looking for something refreshing, a bit sweet, and refreshing.
Total: 22
My last stop in Germany for Pils/Helles for a while. So far, nothing approaches Pilsner Urquell.
Visually, Spaten looks A+. Nice creamy moderate head. Perfect golden color. Unfortunately, the aroma is faint and some mild sourness is present.
Luckily, there is no sourness in taste. It has a nice soft mouth feel. It starts and finishes a bit sweet. A touch of honey. A little bit of bite of lemon. And at the end is just a bit of hops in the breath. And throughout it's crisp and clean.
Pretty good. A solid Helles. It could use a bit more honey or lemon. But otherwise definitely something worth grabbing when you're looking for something refreshing, a bit sweet, and refreshing.
Paulaner Original Munich: 17
Taste: 4 Finish: 6 Visual: 5 Aroma: 2
Total: 17
It has a very faint aroma barely of malt. Visually for a pilsner it pours very well. A nice creamy head which dissipates quickly with a light golden color.
It a bit sharp on the tongue at first. No real flavor peeks through until the end. A very mild hop bitterness creeps in at the end and lingers slightly. An undertone of lemon. I get very little malt which a Helles lager should have.
I'm disappointed. If you want a very clean beer with just a hint of lemon and hops, this is decent. It certainly could be drunk in quantity like two bottles after mowing the lawn. Otherwise I'd steer clear. It's just too pedestrian.
Total: 17
It has a very faint aroma barely of malt. Visually for a pilsner it pours very well. A nice creamy head which dissipates quickly with a light golden color.
It a bit sharp on the tongue at first. No real flavor peeks through until the end. A very mild hop bitterness creeps in at the end and lingers slightly. An undertone of lemon. I get very little malt which a Helles lager should have.
I'm disappointed. If you want a very clean beer with just a hint of lemon and hops, this is decent. It certainly could be drunk in quantity like two bottles after mowing the lawn. Otherwise I'd steer clear. It's just too pedestrian.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Becks: 13
Taste: 4 Finish: 3 Visual: 4 Aroma: 2
Total: 13
Perhaps Beck's is the beer that made you aware of German beer. You knew it was better than Bud but was it actually a good pilsner?
It has a nice golden color with a full head. It dissipates quickly. The aroma is faint but of mild malt.
It's a bit fizzy on the tongue. There is a hint of malt sweetness underneath it. In the back a bit more "flavor" kicks in. Maybe a very slight honey. It goes down the throat and then it's pretty much gone. A very tiny bit of hop bitterness sits on the tongue, but again it's a bit metallic showing the lack of freshness.
It's really hard to get a good German Pilsner here that hasn't skunked a bit or been boiled to oblivion. Beck's is no exception. But it can be done as shown by Pislner Urquell (well, Chech at least). Even so, this is the Bud of German beers. Avoid.
Total: 13
Perhaps Beck's is the beer that made you aware of German beer. You knew it was better than Bud but was it actually a good pilsner?
It has a nice golden color with a full head. It dissipates quickly. The aroma is faint but of mild malt.
It's a bit fizzy on the tongue. There is a hint of malt sweetness underneath it. In the back a bit more "flavor" kicks in. Maybe a very slight honey. It goes down the throat and then it's pretty much gone. A very tiny bit of hop bitterness sits on the tongue, but again it's a bit metallic showing the lack of freshness.
It's really hard to get a good German Pilsner here that hasn't skunked a bit or been boiled to oblivion. Beck's is no exception. But it can be done as shown by Pislner Urquell (well, Chech at least). Even so, this is the Bud of German beers. Avoid.
Warsteiner: 16
Taste: 5 Finish: 4 Visual: 3 Aroma: 4
Total: 16
It has the right golden color and pours with a full head. Unfortunately the head is very brittle. It has a pleasant light malt aroma.
The sweetness of the malt persists from start to finish. It's a nice malt flavor. It little bit of sharpness is present as well. At the finish there is a bit of a metallic taste which I wasn't expecting. But it does finish cleanly with just a hint of hop bitterness.
It's a decent pilsner. Nothing special. The odd metallic taste is probably a sign of slight spoilage so the brew isn't as fresh as it should be. But even without that it's average offering from Germany.
Total: 16
It has the right golden color and pours with a full head. Unfortunately the head is very brittle. It has a pleasant light malt aroma.
The sweetness of the malt persists from start to finish. It's a nice malt flavor. It little bit of sharpness is present as well. At the finish there is a bit of a metallic taste which I wasn't expecting. But it does finish cleanly with just a hint of hop bitterness.
It's a decent pilsner. Nothing special. The odd metallic taste is probably a sign of slight spoilage so the brew isn't as fresh as it should be. But even without that it's average offering from Germany.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Beamish Irish Stout: 19
Taste: 5 Finish: 6 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 19
It pours black as night. With the nitrous widget, it pours frothy and creamy. The aroma has a hint of chocolate and malt. But it's slight.
It has a very thin flavor throughout. If front is a bit of cream and a bit of bite of bitter chocolate. It stays thin over the middle of the tongue. The finish has a mild chocolate and coffee flavor. But, it's very very mild.
You could either love this brew as it's a stout, has a bit of flavor, but you could drink a pint in about 3 seconds and the have another. If you're looking for a stout with some bite or to make a big impression, this certainly isn't it.
Total: 19
It pours black as night. With the nitrous widget, it pours frothy and creamy. The aroma has a hint of chocolate and malt. But it's slight.
It has a very thin flavor throughout. If front is a bit of cream and a bit of bite of bitter chocolate. It stays thin over the middle of the tongue. The finish has a mild chocolate and coffee flavor. But, it's very very mild.
You could either love this brew as it's a stout, has a bit of flavor, but you could drink a pint in about 3 seconds and the have another. If you're looking for a stout with some bite or to make a big impression, this certainly isn't it.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Wexford Irish Cream Ale: 11
Taste: 2 Finish: 2 Visual: 5 Aroma: 2
Total: 11
To kick of St. Patty's day I decided to have a Wexford Irish Cream Ale. I've never had a cream ale before so I was interested.
Visually it's beautiful. It has a CO2 widget in it so it pours full of foam. It swirls and ebbs nicely through the glass. Once it settles down in a minute it has a very nice amber color. Unfortunately, it smells like a Budweiser.
The taste at first is a nice light cream. It washes down very nicely. But upon subsequent sips, the flavor begins to break down. After the 3rd sip it really tastes like a frothed fat free milk. It even leaves that skim milk coating on the tongue.
Sorry Wexford, a big miss for Ireland.
Total: 11
To kick of St. Patty's day I decided to have a Wexford Irish Cream Ale. I've never had a cream ale before so I was interested.
Visually it's beautiful. It has a CO2 widget in it so it pours full of foam. It swirls and ebbs nicely through the glass. Once it settles down in a minute it has a very nice amber color. Unfortunately, it smells like a Budweiser.
The taste at first is a nice light cream. It washes down very nicely. But upon subsequent sips, the flavor begins to break down. After the 3rd sip it really tastes like a frothed fat free milk. It even leaves that skim milk coating on the tongue.
Sorry Wexford, a big miss for Ireland.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Slyfox Saison: 23
Taste: 8 Finish: 8 Visual: 3 Aroma: 4
Total: 23
Slyfox is definitely building their reputation in the Philadelphia area. As I've said before, they're Rt. 113 IPA is fantastic. I've recently become addicted to Saison's so I'm hopeful this fits the bill.
It has a nice yeasty, bready aroma. It has a huge head. It's a highly carbonated brew. The color is a nice yellow with an orange tinge.
Up front and through the middle is a sharp sour flavor. In the back of the throat I pick up on lemons. But throughout it is a very round mouth feel. On the exhale the bread and yeast come back which help mellow the whole thing out. A very slight hop bitterness lingers on the tongue. But moreso is that bready lemon flavor.
Overall I think Slyfox scores on this one. It's not a fantastic brew, but it certainly is very good. It would be great on a hot summer day to snacks of bread, cheese, and olives.
Total: 23
Slyfox is definitely building their reputation in the Philadelphia area. As I've said before, they're Rt. 113 IPA is fantastic. I've recently become addicted to Saison's so I'm hopeful this fits the bill.
It has a nice yeasty, bready aroma. It has a huge head. It's a highly carbonated brew. The color is a nice yellow with an orange tinge.
Up front and through the middle is a sharp sour flavor. In the back of the throat I pick up on lemons. But throughout it is a very round mouth feel. On the exhale the bread and yeast come back which help mellow the whole thing out. A very slight hop bitterness lingers on the tongue. But moreso is that bready lemon flavor.
Overall I think Slyfox scores on this one. It's not a fantastic brew, but it certainly is very good. It would be great on a hot summer day to snacks of bread, cheese, and olives.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Dogfish Head 120 Minute IPA: 28
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 28
You can go two different ways with this brew. The first is, "Wow, this is waaaay too much alcohol," and never get past that. It is 12% after all. And, if that's all you see and taste, you'll hate this beer. But...
On a second sip and kind of looking at it differently, the flavors bloom in my mouth. Ripe fruit like plums, grapes, and apricots appear. It feels smooth and silky. The color is a remarkably perfect copper color. The finish has a nice hop kick without being overpowering. The flavor lays on the tongue for a while. The only mark against it is that the aroma is nice but could have been much more.
Near perfection, as long as you can get over the alcohol. Really, it blends into an incredible mouth feel.
Total: 28
You can go two different ways with this brew. The first is, "Wow, this is waaaay too much alcohol," and never get past that. It is 12% after all. And, if that's all you see and taste, you'll hate this beer. But...
On a second sip and kind of looking at it differently, the flavors bloom in my mouth. Ripe fruit like plums, grapes, and apricots appear. It feels smooth and silky. The color is a remarkably perfect copper color. The finish has a nice hop kick without being overpowering. The flavor lays on the tongue for a while. The only mark against it is that the aroma is nice but could have been much more.
Near perfection, as long as you can get over the alcohol. Really, it blends into an incredible mouth feel.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Ommegang Rare Vos: 20
Taste:7 Finish: 7 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 20
It has a nice fresh aroma of bread, yeast, and citrus. The head is thick and foamy. The color is a cloudy amber.
It has a very bright start. A bit of tartness and sizzle. It mellows in the middle with a bit of breadiness. Under it all remains some lemon. In the end it finishes smoothly leaving a trail of mild hoppy bitterness on the tongue. And the aftertaste is a bit of spice, maybe corriander. It's hard to identify the flavor.
The flavors are mellow and kind of blend together. I kind of wanted a more distinct lemon or perhaps more identifiable spices. But, Ommegang delivers a solid brew worth trying.
Total: 20
It has a nice fresh aroma of bread, yeast, and citrus. The head is thick and foamy. The color is a cloudy amber.
It has a very bright start. A bit of tartness and sizzle. It mellows in the middle with a bit of breadiness. Under it all remains some lemon. In the end it finishes smoothly leaving a trail of mild hoppy bitterness on the tongue. And the aftertaste is a bit of spice, maybe corriander. It's hard to identify the flavor.
The flavors are mellow and kind of blend together. I kind of wanted a more distinct lemon or perhaps more identifiable spices. But, Ommegang delivers a solid brew worth trying.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Victory Saison: 29
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 29
Victory comes out with their seasonal bottle conditioned Saison. I can't wait.
It has a moderate head that dissipates quickly. It has a very nice amber bordering on orange color. Given it's bottle conditioned and cloudy it practically glows. The aroma is of crisp hops and citrus.
Mmm. Sweet on the front from malt and honey. Some earthy tones come in the middle such as cloves, spice, and hay. Some tartness creeps in at the back of the tongue with a hint of lemon. It finishes with yeast and bread. A bit of oil lingers in the mouth along with some yeast, honey, and lemon.
Victory dials up a highly complex Saison that does not disappoint. It certainly is the best Saison I've had. If there are better ones, I'd love to try them. Otherwise, this is perfect.
Total: 29
Victory comes out with their seasonal bottle conditioned Saison. I can't wait.
It has a moderate head that dissipates quickly. It has a very nice amber bordering on orange color. Given it's bottle conditioned and cloudy it practically glows. The aroma is of crisp hops and citrus.
Mmm. Sweet on the front from malt and honey. Some earthy tones come in the middle such as cloves, spice, and hay. Some tartness creeps in at the back of the tongue with a hint of lemon. It finishes with yeast and bread. A bit of oil lingers in the mouth along with some yeast, honey, and lemon.
Victory dials up a highly complex Saison that does not disappoint. It certainly is the best Saison I've had. If there are better ones, I'd love to try them. Otherwise, this is perfect.
Great Divide Titan IPA: 27
Taste: 9 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 27
It has a good aroma of floral hops. Visually it has a very nice copper color with a moderate head.
It bites the tongue at the tip. The hops then swell in force at the mid. Grapefruit definitely punches through with a bit of bitter lemon peel. In the back on the exhale are more hops. It sticks to the tongue nicely. Strong but not overpowering. Bitter but it doesn't make you grimace. There is no alcohol taste to it given it's moderate strength at 6.8%.
For a very strongly hopped IPA, there are only a few that do it better. Fantastic. If Sam Adams has a bit too much flavor for you, then this will probably kill you. But if you suck them down like Coors Light, then try Titan IPA and savor it.
Total: 27
It has a good aroma of floral hops. Visually it has a very nice copper color with a moderate head.
It bites the tongue at the tip. The hops then swell in force at the mid. Grapefruit definitely punches through with a bit of bitter lemon peel. In the back on the exhale are more hops. It sticks to the tongue nicely. Strong but not overpowering. Bitter but it doesn't make you grimace. There is no alcohol taste to it given it's moderate strength at 6.8%.
For a very strongly hopped IPA, there are only a few that do it better. Fantastic. If Sam Adams has a bit too much flavor for you, then this will probably kill you. But if you suck them down like Coors Light, then try Titan IPA and savor it.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Young's Double Chocolate Stout: 21
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Aroma: 2 Visual: 5
Total: 21
It's a black beer with a fantastic looking dark brown head. No aroma whatsoever.
It's a little sweet on the tip of the tongue. Then the bitterness starts to wash in. By the middle the chocolate flavor starts to bloom. In the back the chocolate swells to it's peak. Then in the finish is a very rich and bitter chocolate exhale. Finally on the breath is roasted french roast coffee. Really, it's like you just drank black coffee.
What I'm surprised about is that after the initial taste, there really is no sweetness to this brew. Usually stouts are sweet and a bit creamy. This is definitely more dark chocolate and dark unsweetened coffee. I can't tell if I hate it or love it. Either way it is extremely well executed.
Total: 21
It's a black beer with a fantastic looking dark brown head. No aroma whatsoever.
It's a little sweet on the tip of the tongue. Then the bitterness starts to wash in. By the middle the chocolate flavor starts to bloom. In the back the chocolate swells to it's peak. Then in the finish is a very rich and bitter chocolate exhale. Finally on the breath is roasted french roast coffee. Really, it's like you just drank black coffee.
What I'm surprised about is that after the initial taste, there really is no sweetness to this brew. Usually stouts are sweet and a bit creamy. This is definitely more dark chocolate and dark unsweetened coffee. I can't tell if I hate it or love it. Either way it is extremely well executed.
Harpoon UFO Hefeweizen: 14
Taste: 4 Finish: 4 Visual: 3 Aroma: 3
Total: 14
Harpoon's UFO Hefeweizen is a very light version suitable for those graduating from Bud or Coors. The flavor is light enough that you could easily suck down two in a row without blinking. Visually, it a cloudy and pale straw color with a small head. It has a bit of aroma of bread and hops.
At first it's a bit bready and chewy. It's slightly refreshing with a bit of that citrus undertone. But it's not much. It then finishes with yeast, straw, and minor bitter hops. Like I say, very tame. Honestly, I find it too tame to take seriously. Might not be bad to augment a cooler of Coors Light knowing that a few friends might venture into something more substantial. But for your own fridge? Pass.
Total: 14
Harpoon's UFO Hefeweizen is a very light version suitable for those graduating from Bud or Coors. The flavor is light enough that you could easily suck down two in a row without blinking. Visually, it a cloudy and pale straw color with a small head. It has a bit of aroma of bread and hops.
At first it's a bit bready and chewy. It's slightly refreshing with a bit of that citrus undertone. But it's not much. It then finishes with yeast, straw, and minor bitter hops. Like I say, very tame. Honestly, I find it too tame to take seriously. Might not be bad to augment a cooler of Coors Light knowing that a few friends might venture into something more substantial. But for your own fridge? Pass.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Allagash Tripel: 12
Taste: 3 Finish: 3 Visual: 4 Aroma: 2
Total: 12
It has a dark golden and cloudy color. It has a very faint aroma of citrus and bread. The head is moderate.
I'm really surprised how light the flavor is. If you really concentrate you can get some citrus flavor, a bit of yeasty bread, and earthy straw flavor. It's slightly crisp. And then under that is a bit of alcohol.
It's all extremely disappointing. Too light to be taken seriously. Not enough anything coming through. Pass.
Total: 12
It has a dark golden and cloudy color. It has a very faint aroma of citrus and bread. The head is moderate.
I'm really surprised how light the flavor is. If you really concentrate you can get some citrus flavor, a bit of yeasty bread, and earthy straw flavor. It's slightly crisp. And then under that is a bit of alcohol.
It's all extremely disappointing. Too light to be taken seriously. Not enough anything coming through. Pass.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Steinlager: 6
Taste: 2 Finish: 2 Visual: 1 Aroma: 1
Total: 6
The purest beer in the world from New Zealand. I mean, how could they be wrong?
Not helping this beer is that it is mildly skunked. Shipping halfway around the world in a green bottle doesn't help. But, then there is the rest of it...
Consumer Reports said it best about some of the worst tasting imports. They have a flavor of boiled vegetables. So, take some broccoli and carrots and cauliflower, boil it in water, and then pour it into a Coors Light and you kind of have the taste of Steinlager. Needless to say, just stay away. What's scary is that beer can taste worse.
Total: 6
The purest beer in the world from New Zealand. I mean, how could they be wrong?
Not helping this beer is that it is mildly skunked. Shipping halfway around the world in a green bottle doesn't help. But, then there is the rest of it...
Consumer Reports said it best about some of the worst tasting imports. They have a flavor of boiled vegetables. So, take some broccoli and carrots and cauliflower, boil it in water, and then pour it into a Coors Light and you kind of have the taste of Steinlager. Needless to say, just stay away. What's scary is that beer can taste worse.
Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout: 29
Taste: 10 Finish: 10 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 29
Samuel Smith who already makes many excellent brews, knocks it out of the park with their Oatmeal Stout. It is pitch black in color. The head is full, creamy, and dark cream in color. The aroma is sweet of malt.
It tastes amazing. The best I can describe it is like a rich chocolate and malted milk. It is perfectly creamy. The malt is upfront with sweetness and lasts until the last sip. It coats the tongue. Only at the end on the exhale do I get a hint of hops in the flavor mixed with chocolate. Under it all is a bit of coffee. Fantastic.
There is no hint of alcohol. No overt bitterness. It may linger in it's sweetness, but it never overpowers. I think I could drink a case without blinking. I can see why oatmeal stouts were recommended for pregnant women at the turn of the century. The oatmeal is fortifying. The brew is filling and ever satisfying. And it's light enough for just about anyone to drink. Try it.
Total: 29
Samuel Smith who already makes many excellent brews, knocks it out of the park with their Oatmeal Stout. It is pitch black in color. The head is full, creamy, and dark cream in color. The aroma is sweet of malt.
It tastes amazing. The best I can describe it is like a rich chocolate and malted milk. It is perfectly creamy. The malt is upfront with sweetness and lasts until the last sip. It coats the tongue. Only at the end on the exhale do I get a hint of hops in the flavor mixed with chocolate. Under it all is a bit of coffee. Fantastic.
There is no hint of alcohol. No overt bitterness. It may linger in it's sweetness, but it never overpowers. I think I could drink a case without blinking. I can see why oatmeal stouts were recommended for pregnant women at the turn of the century. The oatmeal is fortifying. The brew is filling and ever satisfying. And it's light enough for just about anyone to drink. Try it.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Samuel Smith Taddy Porter: 25
Taste: 9 Finish: 8 Visual: 5 Aroma: 3
Total: 25
First, it pours with a rich, creamy head. The color is dark as night. Not a ray of light penetrates it. The aroma is mild with a little sniff of chocolate.
It is very creamy and glides over the tongue. It is mildly sweet. A light flavor of chocolate permeates it. And more of a milk chocolate rather than dark. Only at the end do you get a bit of hop bitterness, but it is very subdued. And it doesn't linger at all on the tongue.
This is a near perfect porter. It is extremely drinkable. It is creamy, smooth, and not heavy. Very nice.
Total: 25
First, it pours with a rich, creamy head. The color is dark as night. Not a ray of light penetrates it. The aroma is mild with a little sniff of chocolate.
It is very creamy and glides over the tongue. It is mildly sweet. A light flavor of chocolate permeates it. And more of a milk chocolate rather than dark. Only at the end do you get a bit of hop bitterness, but it is very subdued. And it doesn't linger at all on the tongue.
This is a near perfect porter. It is extremely drinkable. It is creamy, smooth, and not heavy. Very nice.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Stone IPA: 22
Taste: 7 Finish:8 Visual: 4 Aroma: 3
Total: 22
This is the "entry level" IPA for Stone who have several steps to their Double Bastard. There others are very good to superb. Let's see about their plain-old IPA.
It pours with a very nice copper color but not much head. It has a nice aroma of hops but not too much.
Hmm. This is like the "light beer" for Stone. It's very well balanced and just enough hop flavor. Probably a step up from Sam Adams. This is crisp and clean up front. It glides over the tongue very easily. It's not until the end that you get a nice hops kick. And then it slips away nicely.
Stone IPA is definitely a good entrant to the IPA genre. Would be good as your high-end beer for a party as it's probably as far as most people would want to go. But if you like a strongly hopped brew, skip this and move up to their Arrogant Bastard. I still haven't tried the double. Hopefully soon.
Total: 22
This is the "entry level" IPA for Stone who have several steps to their Double Bastard. There others are very good to superb. Let's see about their plain-old IPA.
It pours with a very nice copper color but not much head. It has a nice aroma of hops but not too much.
Hmm. This is like the "light beer" for Stone. It's very well balanced and just enough hop flavor. Probably a step up from Sam Adams. This is crisp and clean up front. It glides over the tongue very easily. It's not until the end that you get a nice hops kick. And then it slips away nicely.
Stone IPA is definitely a good entrant to the IPA genre. Would be good as your high-end beer for a party as it's probably as far as most people would want to go. But if you like a strongly hopped brew, skip this and move up to their Arrogant Bastard. I still haven't tried the double. Hopefully soon.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Dogfish Head India Brown Ale: 26
Taste: 9 Finish: 8 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 26
The name makes you think it's a cross between an IPA and a brown ale. Maybe technically it is. But taste wise it is more of a doppelbock or stout. This is one rich and heavy brew.
It pours with a great creamy head and a deep dark brown color. It has a nice aroma of chocolate and coffee.
Overall it has a nice sweet taste to it. Beautifully caramelized malt. Then it transitions to rich bittersweet dark chocolate and french roasted coffee. It has a nice exhale of alcohol and the malt/chocolate/coffee combination. It keeps you warm for a while but then dissipates.
Wow, a really great beer. It's higher in alcohol and a ton of calories (7.2% and 238C) so it certainly isn't a session beer. But for one or two in the fall to winter? Perfect.
Total: 26
The name makes you think it's a cross between an IPA and a brown ale. Maybe technically it is. But taste wise it is more of a doppelbock or stout. This is one rich and heavy brew.
It pours with a great creamy head and a deep dark brown color. It has a nice aroma of chocolate and coffee.
Overall it has a nice sweet taste to it. Beautifully caramelized malt. Then it transitions to rich bittersweet dark chocolate and french roasted coffee. It has a nice exhale of alcohol and the malt/chocolate/coffee combination. It keeps you warm for a while but then dissipates.
Wow, a really great beer. It's higher in alcohol and a ton of calories (7.2% and 238C) so it certainly isn't a session beer. But for one or two in the fall to winter? Perfect.
St. Bernardus Abt 12: 21
Taste: 7 Finish: 7 Visual: 5 Aroma: 2
Total: 21
It pours brown but as dark as night. The head is rich and creamy. Visually it is perfect. Unfortunately, it has almost no aroma, maybe a whiff of alcohol. It is 10%.
It has a very bright front to it. Spiced. But then it mellows to more earthy tones. In the back are some dark chocolate and coffee bitterness. A hint of ripe fruit like plums. It lingers a bit and leaves the tongue tingling. Under it all is a bit of raw alcohol.
Overall a very good brew. The subtle but present alcohol flavor definitely take it down a notch. But otherwise excellent.
Total: 21
It pours brown but as dark as night. The head is rich and creamy. Visually it is perfect. Unfortunately, it has almost no aroma, maybe a whiff of alcohol. It is 10%.
It has a very bright front to it. Spiced. But then it mellows to more earthy tones. In the back are some dark chocolate and coffee bitterness. A hint of ripe fruit like plums. It lingers a bit and leaves the tongue tingling. Under it all is a bit of raw alcohol.
Overall a very good brew. The subtle but present alcohol flavor definitely take it down a notch. But otherwise excellent.
Coors: 15
Taste: 6 Finish: 6 Visual: 1 Aroma: 2
Total: 15
Sometimes you have to go back to your roots. There's something to be said about a lightly flavored and crisp beer. Let's see what I say about Coors.
Visually it looks horrible. An extremely pale straw color. Extremely brittle head. And no real aroma except a hint of hops.
It is mildly sweet on the tip of the tongue which moves to the middle of the tongue. Maybe a hint of honey? Really? Yes. Towards the back and on the exhale is a very light hop flavor, and dare I say some floral notes? Really? Yes. It finishes very cleanly leaving no aftertaste. And, poof, it's gone.
Ice cold on a hot day I could suck down about 3 to quench a thirst. This is roughly equivalent to a Corona. And I would take it any day over the faltering Yuengling. What the hell happened to them? So, in the end I am very surprised that Coors isn't bad. It's actually drinkable. Really? Yes.
Total: 15
Sometimes you have to go back to your roots. There's something to be said about a lightly flavored and crisp beer. Let's see what I say about Coors.
Visually it looks horrible. An extremely pale straw color. Extremely brittle head. And no real aroma except a hint of hops.
It is mildly sweet on the tip of the tongue which moves to the middle of the tongue. Maybe a hint of honey? Really? Yes. Towards the back and on the exhale is a very light hop flavor, and dare I say some floral notes? Really? Yes. It finishes very cleanly leaving no aftertaste. And, poof, it's gone.
Ice cold on a hot day I could suck down about 3 to quench a thirst. This is roughly equivalent to a Corona. And I would take it any day over the faltering Yuengling. What the hell happened to them? So, in the end I am very surprised that Coors isn't bad. It's actually drinkable. Really? Yes.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
St. Bernardus Prior 8: 28
Taste: 10 Finish: 9 Visual: 5 Aroma: 4
Total: 28
I received a 4 pack of different varieties of St. Bernardus. It is a brewery in Belgium which has been brewing for over 60 years. I'm very eager since I've never heard or seen these guys before.
It pours with a medium head. It is a deep brown color with traces of red. It has a very sweet, fruity smell.
It is definitely sweet at the tip and middle. Fruity. I get grape juice and plums. It blooms in the back with more fruit and then some tartness. It finishes very cleanly leaving a sweet film on the tongue. There is no hint of alcohol which is amazing since this is 8%.
A very tasty beer that is very different than anything I've had before. Excellent.
Total: 28
I received a 4 pack of different varieties of St. Bernardus. It is a brewery in Belgium which has been brewing for over 60 years. I'm very eager since I've never heard or seen these guys before.
It pours with a medium head. It is a deep brown color with traces of red. It has a very sweet, fruity smell.
It is definitely sweet at the tip and middle. Fruity. I get grape juice and plums. It blooms in the back with more fruit and then some tartness. It finishes very cleanly leaving a sweet film on the tongue. There is no hint of alcohol which is amazing since this is 8%.
A very tasty beer that is very different than anything I've had before. Excellent.
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