Doesn't seem that long ago that I was posting comments on the Raleigh World Beer Fest, but I guess 6 months goes quick. The Durham World Beer Fest we went to on Saturday was as good, if not better. You can see a program from the event here if you'd like to take a look.
I went with 4 friends and really had a great time. Same as last time, it was a great atmosphere, except this time we were in the outfield of a beautiful minor-league ballpark of the Durham Bulls. There were 4 tents per beer garden and three beer gardens. Overall there were about 130 breweries present; some serving only one of their beers on tap or bottle, others came with as many as seven of their brews. No way to count, but my guess is that there was somewhere between 300-400 varieties of beer to be sampled. I hit about 70.
Now don't think I drank 70 full beers... that's just silly. On average it was only about 1-4 oz per brew. I finished the afternoon feeling well and glad for the pretzel necklace Marc's kids had made for us.
While walking from tent to tent sampling different beers, I kept track and tried to rate all the beers I tasted. I kept it simple, by marking a 1-5 next to it's name on my program.
Anheuser-Busch
St. Louis, MO
Jack's Pumpkin Spice 4.5
Czechvar 4
Arcobräu Brauhaus
Moos, Germany
Urfass Lager 4
Aspall Cyders
Suffolk, United Kingdom
Gaffel Kölsch 4.5
Avery Brewing Co.
Boulder, CO
White Rascal 4.5
Reverend 5
Hog Heaven 5
Azalea Coast Brewing Co.
Wilmington, NC
Rackam's Black Lure Porter 3.5
Beck's Brewery
Lincolnshire, England
Combined Harvest 4
Big Boss Brewing Co.
Raleigh, NC
Harvest Time Pumpkin Ale 4
Black Diamond Express 4.5
Blue Moon Brewing
Golden, CO
Pale Moon 4.5
Pumpkin 4
Boddington's
Manchester, England
Pub Ale 3.5
Brewery Ommegang
Cooperstown, NY
Hennepin Farmhouse Saison
Carolina Beer Co
Mooresville, NC
Cottonwood 4.5
Carolina Brewery
Chapel Hill, NC
Flagship IPA 4
Clipper City Brewing Company
Baltimore, MD
Winter Storm 5
Heavy Seas Loose Cannon 4.5
Deschutes Brewery
Bend, OR
Black Butte Porter 4.5
Mirror pond Pale Ale 4
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Milton, DE
Theobrama 5
Duvel Moortgat Brouwerij
Puurs, Belgium
Maredsous 8 4.5
Belgian Golden Ale 4.5
Flying Dog Brewery
Denver, CO
Double Dog 5
onzo Imperial Porter 4.5
Founder's Brewery
Grand Rapids, MI
Breakfast Stout 4.5
French Broad Brewing
Asheville, NC
Wee Heavy-er 4
13 Rebels ESB 4
Great Divide Brewing
Denver, CO
Titan IPA 4
Green Mountain Beverage
Middlebury, VT
Strongbow Cider 2.5
Kaiser Brewery
Diviaopolis, Brazil
Palma Louca 3.5
Kuhnhenn Brewing
Warren, MI
Fourth Dimentia Olde Ale 5
Left Hand Brewing Co
Longmont, CO
Milk Stout 4.5
Imperial Stout 4.5
Magic Hat Brewing Co
South Burlington, VT
Circus Boy 5
Jinx 4.5
Matt Brewing Co
Utica, NY
Pomegranate Wheat 4.5
McAusian Brewery
Montreal, Canada
St Ambrose Oatmeal Stout 5
Miller Brewing Co
Milwaukee, WI
Sparks 4.5
Sparks Plus 5
New Belgium Brewing Co
Fort Collins, CO
Fat Tire Amber Ale 4
Pabst Brewing Co
San Antonio, TX
Pabst Blue Ribbon 4
Pennsylvania Brewing Co
Pittsburgh, PA
Pilsner 3.5
Gold 5
Oktoberfest 4
Pyramid Breweries
Seattle, WA
Hefeweizen 5
Thunderhead IPA 4
Broken Rake Amber 4
Reunion
Chico, CA
Organic Red Rye Ale 5
Rogue Ales
Newport, OR
Double Dead Guy Ale 4
I2PA 4
Shmaltz Brewing Co
San Francisco, CA
Coney Island Lager 4.5
Origin Pomegranate Ale 4.5
Genesis 4.5
Smuttynose Brewing Co
Portsmouth, NH
Old Brown Dog 4.5
Southampton Ales and Lagers
Southampton, NY
Double White 4
Altbier 4.5
St Feuillien Brasserie
Le Roeuix, Belgium
Abbey Tripel Ale 5
Urthel Bock 5
St Peters Brewery
Suffolk, England
Organic English Ale 3.5
Stella Artois Brewery
Leuven, Belgium
Lager 3.5
Terrapin Beer Co
Athens, GA
India Style Brown Ale 4
Uinta Brewing Co
Salt Lake City, UT
Anniversary Barley Wine 4.5
Wedge Brewing Co
Asheville, NC
Porter 4
Wit Beer 4
Wolf Beer Co
Wilmington, NC
White Wolf 3.5
Wychwood Brewry
Witney, England
Scarecrow Organic Ale 2.5
whew
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Good vs Evil... so to speak (034, 035 & 036)
A few weeks back, I tallied three more brews towards my targeted 200 at the Flying Saucer:
Two of which I'd had before, Weihenstephaner Original and the Hefeweizen, both are such clean beers. Not sure if it's because of the fact that Weihenstephaner brews all their beers by the German (or Bavarian) Purity Law of 1516 (or Reinheitsgebot in German) restricting the ingredients of the production of beer to water, barley & hops. Curious that a Hefeweizen beer (with the main ingredient of wheat) is still considered to be brewed by that law... hmmm. Technicality I guess. Anyway, both the Original and the Hefe were again amazing. Plus, as a bonus, I just love the art of properly pouring a pint into a tall wheat beer glass. There is no finer looking glass of beer than a cloudy Hefe in a tall-one.
The third beer of the night is named appropriately. Arrogant Bastard Ale by Stone Brewery. The first thing that is printed on the back of the bottle is "This is an aggressive beer. You probably won't like it. It is quite doubtful that you have the taste or sophistication to appreciate an ale of this quality and depth. We suggest that you stick to safer and more familiar territory - maybe something with a multi-million dollar ad campaign aimed at convincing you it's made in a little brewery, or one that implies that their tasteless fizzy yellow beer will give you more sex appeal. Perhaps you think muli-million dollar ad campaigns make a beer taste better. Perhaps you're mouthing your words as you read this."
Arraogant they may be, but it is a fine beer.
Weihenstephaner Original
Container: Bottled
Style: Pale Lager
Brewer: Weihenstephan Brewery (Brauerei Weihenstephan)
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description:
This mellow brew is the only lager currently available from Weihenstephaner, the oldest brewery in the world and a specialist in wheat ales. It has a nice light malt aroma and is very smooth. 5.1% abv
Weihenstephaner Hefeweizen
Container: Bottled
Style: Wheat (Weizen)
Brewer: Weihenstephan Brewery (Brauerei Weihenstephan)
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description:
Hazy gold in color with a spicy clove aroma. It has a medium body with an off-dry malt finish and a hint of spice that lingers. 5.4% abv
Stone Arrogant Bastard Ale
Container: Bottled
Style: Strong Ale
Brewer: Stone Brewing Co.
City: San Marcos, CA
Country: United States
Description:
This dark ale is well hopped with a nice floral aroma and an intensely bitter palate. It is very full-bodied with complex malt and hop flavors. The finish lingers with noticeable bitterness. 7.2% abv
Two of which I'd had before, Weihenstephaner Original and the Hefeweizen, both are such clean beers. Not sure if it's because of the fact that Weihenstephaner brews all their beers by the German (or Bavarian) Purity Law of 1516 (or Reinheitsgebot in German) restricting the ingredients of the production of beer to water, barley & hops. Curious that a Hefeweizen beer (with the main ingredient of wheat) is still considered to be brewed by that law... hmmm. Technicality I guess. Anyway, both the Original and the Hefe were again amazing. Plus, as a bonus, I just love the art of properly pouring a pint into a tall wheat beer glass. There is no finer looking glass of beer than a cloudy Hefe in a tall-one.
The third beer of the night is named appropriately. Arrogant Bastard Ale by Stone Brewery. The first thing that is printed on the back of the bottle is "This is an aggressive beer. You probably won't like it. It is quite doubtful that you have the taste or sophistication to appreciate an ale of this quality and depth. We suggest that you stick to safer and more familiar territory - maybe something with a multi-million dollar ad campaign aimed at convincing you it's made in a little brewery, or one that implies that their tasteless fizzy yellow beer will give you more sex appeal. Perhaps you think muli-million dollar ad campaigns make a beer taste better. Perhaps you're mouthing your words as you read this."
Arraogant they may be, but it is a fine beer.
Weihenstephaner OriginalContainer: Bottled
Style: Pale Lager
Brewer: Weihenstephan Brewery (Brauerei Weihenstephan)
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description:
This mellow brew is the only lager currently available from Weihenstephaner, the oldest brewery in the world and a specialist in wheat ales. It has a nice light malt aroma and is very smooth. 5.1% abv
Weihenstephaner HefeweizenContainer: Bottled
Style: Wheat (Weizen)
Brewer: Weihenstephan Brewery (Brauerei Weihenstephan)
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description:
Hazy gold in color with a spicy clove aroma. It has a medium body with an off-dry malt finish and a hint of spice that lingers. 5.4% abv
Stone Arrogant Bastard AleContainer: Bottled
Style: Strong Ale
Brewer: Stone Brewing Co.
City: San Marcos, CA
Country: United States
Description:
This dark ale is well hopped with a nice floral aroma and an intensely bitter palate. It is very full-bodied with complex malt and hop flavors. The finish lingers with noticeable bitterness. 7.2% abv
Friday, October 3, 2008
A fun quote on wise investments
Thanks for this, Chris:
If you had purchased $1,000.00 of AIG stock one year ago you would have $44.34 left.
With Wachovia, you would have had $54.74 left of the original $1,000.00.
With Lehman, you would have had $0.00 left.
But, if you had purchased $1,000.00 worth of beer one year ago…drank all of the beer, then turned in the cans for the aluminum recycling REFUND, you would have $214.00 cash.
If you had purchased $1,000.00 of AIG stock one year ago you would have $44.34 left.
With Wachovia, you would have had $54.74 left of the original $1,000.00.
With Lehman, you would have had $0.00 left.
But, if you had purchased $1,000.00 worth of beer one year ago…drank all of the beer, then turned in the cans for the aluminum recycling REFUND, you would have $214.00 cash.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Non-Tally News
I received my first issue of All About Beer Magazine a couple weeks back. It also came with a DVD called The American Brew which was a great documentary about the history of beer in America stretching from colonial days, through prohibition, the rise of micro-brews and up to today.
Less than 2 weeks until the Durham World Beer Festival. I am feeling more prepared and more educated to truly enjoy this year's Beer Fest. Not that I didn't enjoy the last one, I just think I will have a better idea of what to look for and discern a bit better for what I want to sample.
I went to Total Wine on Friday to get a bottle Merlot for Amy. I ended up getting two: a 2005 Martin Ray Merlot and a 2003 Edgewood Estate Merlot. No, I'm not turning this into a Wine Tally... just thought I'd let you know, I highly recommend the Edgewood Merlot though. I'll let you know about the Martin Ray when we cork it.
Anyway, while at the Total wine, I wanted to look for an IPA I hadn't tried and an employee recommended the Stone Ruination IPA that went on the shelf just an hour before, so I deceided to bring it home and give it a go.
A little history on IPA's: an IPA is an Indian Pale Ale. They are called Indian because they were the style of beers that were shipped across the Indian Ocean from the UK down around the southern tip of Africa and up through the Indian Ocean to British occupants in India in the 18th Century. By the time beer arrived, it would be bad or flat. In an effort to preserve the beers during a not only long trip, but a trip with extreme temperature fluctuation, the British brewers tried brewing their ales with hops. Hops is not only a fantastic flavor, but it acted as a natural preservative.
I tell you this because when you drink an IPA, you get a big nose full and mouth full of hops. That's why when you hear me (or more experienced and much smarter beer reviewers) say that a beer is 'hoppy' that means my tastebuds are getting kicked by enough hops in one bottle to survive a six-month voyage.
Anyway, with all that nonsense being said, Stone Ruination IPA is one killer India Pale Ale.
So, uh... yeah. It's a pretty good beer.
Less than 2 weeks until the Durham World Beer Festival. I am feeling more prepared and more educated to truly enjoy this year's Beer Fest. Not that I didn't enjoy the last one, I just think I will have a better idea of what to look for and discern a bit better for what I want to sample.
I went to Total Wine on Friday to get a bottle Merlot for Amy. I ended up getting two: a 2005 Martin Ray Merlot and a 2003 Edgewood Estate Merlot. No, I'm not turning this into a Wine Tally... just thought I'd let you know, I highly recommend the Edgewood Merlot though. I'll let you know about the Martin Ray when we cork it.
Anyway, while at the Total wine, I wanted to look for an IPA I hadn't tried and an employee recommended the Stone Ruination IPA that went on the shelf just an hour before, so I deceided to bring it home and give it a go.
A little history on IPA's: an IPA is an Indian Pale Ale. They are called Indian because they were the style of beers that were shipped across the Indian Ocean from the UK down around the southern tip of Africa and up through the Indian Ocean to British occupants in India in the 18th Century. By the time beer arrived, it would be bad or flat. In an effort to preserve the beers during a not only long trip, but a trip with extreme temperature fluctuation, the British brewers tried brewing their ales with hops. Hops is not only a fantastic flavor, but it acted as a natural preservative.
I tell you this because when you drink an IPA, you get a big nose full and mouth full of hops. That's why when you hear me (or more experienced and much smarter beer reviewers) say that a beer is 'hoppy' that means my tastebuds are getting kicked by enough hops in one bottle to survive a six-month voyage.
Anyway, with all that nonsense being said, Stone Ruination IPA is one killer India Pale Ale.
So, uh... yeah. It's a pretty good beer.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
The Good, the Bad and the Hoppy (031, 032 & 033)
A couple weeks ago my brother, Dave, and I went to the Saucer for a couple brews before going to a concert (King's X at Volume 11 Tavern... GREAT SHOW by the way) in downtown Raleigh.
I had a couple good beers, but one was so awful, I couldn't finish it. The first beer I ordered was an Avery Karma. If you remember a few posts ago, one of the better beers I had was the Avery Maharaja, so I figured I couldn't go wrong, right? Wrong. There was so much fruit and flowery stuff going on in that beer, it should have it's 'beer' status revoked and slapped with a 'wine cooler' label. I got through half then told the bartender to dump it. Waste. Check out the description below... there are words in there that should not be in the description of a beer: 'mandarin orange', 'belgian biscuit', 'marshmallow', 'light bananna', 'light peach', 'floral flavor', 'coriander spices'... I've had bananna in beer before, and it was good. I've had Belgian beers that have had orange and it was good... BUT, all of these in one beer does not end well.
The second was more my speed: Rogue American Amber Ale. I've sampled Rogue beers before, but it was my first at the Saucer. Classic beer dinker's beer. Then Dave and I split an Otter Head Ale, which wasn't a bad English Ale at all, great taste and nice finish.
Rogue American Amber (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Amber Ale
Brewer: Rogue Ales
City: Newport, OR
Country: United States
Description: This amber ale is slightly fruity with a nice hop character in the nose. It is a dark copper color with a nice rocky head. It finishes hoppy and slightly dry - go figure!
Avery Karma (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Belgian Style Ale
Brewer: Avery Brewing Co.
City: Boulder,CO.
Country: United States
Description: Deep copper orange color with a very vivid appearance. Light mandarin orange aromas, with some belgian biscut notes, marshmallows and light bananas. Sweet on the lips, with some light peach and floral flavors. Some light coriander spices, with a smooth palate. Overall a good beer, very tasty, and light; perfect for a sunny spring day.
Otter Head Ale (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: English Ale
Brewer: Otter Brewery
City: Honiton, Devon
Country: United Kingdom
Description: Otter Head is a low-foaming English Strong Ale which pours a dark ruddy copperish brown color with a light creamy, off-white head. This brewer knew what he was up to - this beer is extremely well balanced. Overall taste is wonderful in this medium bodied, low to moderately carbonated, smooth drinking beer.
I had a couple good beers, but one was so awful, I couldn't finish it. The first beer I ordered was an Avery Karma. If you remember a few posts ago, one of the better beers I had was the Avery Maharaja, so I figured I couldn't go wrong, right? Wrong. There was so much fruit and flowery stuff going on in that beer, it should have it's 'beer' status revoked and slapped with a 'wine cooler' label. I got through half then told the bartender to dump it. Waste. Check out the description below... there are words in there that should not be in the description of a beer: 'mandarin orange', 'belgian biscuit', 'marshmallow', 'light bananna', 'light peach', 'floral flavor', 'coriander spices'... I've had bananna in beer before, and it was good. I've had Belgian beers that have had orange and it was good... BUT, all of these in one beer does not end well.
The second was more my speed: Rogue American Amber Ale. I've sampled Rogue beers before, but it was my first at the Saucer. Classic beer dinker's beer. Then Dave and I split an Otter Head Ale, which wasn't a bad English Ale at all, great taste and nice finish.
Rogue American Amber (BTL)Container: Bottled
Style: Amber Ale
Brewer: Rogue Ales
City: Newport, OR
Country: United States
Description: This amber ale is slightly fruity with a nice hop character in the nose. It is a dark copper color with a nice rocky head. It finishes hoppy and slightly dry - go figure!
Avery Karma (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Belgian Style Ale
Brewer: Avery Brewing Co.
City: Boulder,CO.
Country: United States
Description: Deep copper orange color with a very vivid appearance. Light mandarin orange aromas, with some belgian biscut notes, marshmallows and light bananas. Sweet on the lips, with some light peach and floral flavors. Some light coriander spices, with a smooth palate. Overall a good beer, very tasty, and light; perfect for a sunny spring day.
Otter Head Ale (BTL)Container: Bottled
Style: English Ale
Brewer: Otter Brewery
City: Honiton, Devon
Country: United Kingdom
Description: Otter Head is a low-foaming English Strong Ale which pours a dark ruddy copperish brown color with a light creamy, off-white head. This brewer knew what he was up to - this beer is extremely well balanced. Overall taste is wonderful in this medium bodied, low to moderately carbonated, smooth drinking beer.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Thanks, Marc! (029 & 030)
Like I said in my last post, I am behind in my posts but this one will get me current and up to speed. A few weeks back, my friends Marc and Justin (who is now my boss as well) met at the Saucer for an after work brew. Marc treated which was unexpected and very appreciated! Thanks for the beers, brother!
The disadvantage to logging in my beers so long after the fact is that my already dull reviews are as a result even more so. I'll try to do a better job in future, in any case it's just a tally, right? Although I would like to leave some sort of impression on the kind of experience I'm having during my quest. I am glad to say that I am not yet bored or regretful I've started this blog. I'm having a good time with it and even if I'm the only one to look back at these posts, it's been a fun experience so far.
First, I must remark on one particular beer-related subject before I get into my latest two beers: this morning I got word via email that Durham's World Beer Fest will be October 5th at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Tickets go on sale mid-August and I am poised for pre-order.
Ever onward... the first brew of the night was a tasty Holy Mackerel Mack in Black. The pomegranate really gave it a pop at first, but by the end of the glass, I was glad it was done. I couldn't do a 6-pack of this one, but knocking out a tap was good. Bravo for my first Florida beer. Abv 8%.
The second and last of that night was a Scottish Beer, Belhaven Twisted Thistle. It was a delicious IPA that was refreshing and finished much better than the Mack did. It has an abv of 6.1%.
Holy Mackerel Mack in Black (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Porter/Stout
Brewer: Gordash Brewing Co.
City: Melbourne, FL
Country: United States
Description: Dark chocolate barley gives this Imperial Stout a black color with a tan head. The use of pomegranate juice and Belgian yeast create a sweetness that is well balenced by a coffee-like bitterness. 8.0 ABV.
Belhaven Twisted Thistle
Container: Draught
Style: India Pale Ale
City: unassigned
Country: Scotland
Description: This Scottish ale is a version of and IPA with peat smoked malt. It has nice cascades in the aroma and upfront and then a smokiness on the palate. Great beer and an interesting profile.
The disadvantage to logging in my beers so long after the fact is that my already dull reviews are as a result even more so. I'll try to do a better job in future, in any case it's just a tally, right? Although I would like to leave some sort of impression on the kind of experience I'm having during my quest. I am glad to say that I am not yet bored or regretful I've started this blog. I'm having a good time with it and even if I'm the only one to look back at these posts, it's been a fun experience so far.
First, I must remark on one particular beer-related subject before I get into my latest two beers: this morning I got word via email that Durham's World Beer Fest will be October 5th at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Tickets go on sale mid-August and I am poised for pre-order.
Ever onward... the first brew of the night was a tasty Holy Mackerel Mack in Black. The pomegranate really gave it a pop at first, but by the end of the glass, I was glad it was done. I couldn't do a 6-pack of this one, but knocking out a tap was good. Bravo for my first Florida beer. Abv 8%.
The second and last of that night was a Scottish Beer, Belhaven Twisted Thistle. It was a delicious IPA that was refreshing and finished much better than the Mack did. It has an abv of 6.1%.
Holy Mackerel Mack in Black (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Porter/Stout
Brewer: Gordash Brewing Co.
City: Melbourne, FL
Country: United States
Description: Dark chocolate barley gives this Imperial Stout a black color with a tan head. The use of pomegranate juice and Belgian yeast create a sweetness that is well balenced by a coffee-like bitterness. 8.0 ABV.
Belhaven Twisted ThistleContainer: Draught
Style: India Pale Ale
City: unassigned
Country: Scotland
Description: This Scottish ale is a version of and IPA with peat smoked malt. It has nice cascades in the aroma and upfront and then a smokiness on the palate. Great beer and an interesting profile.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Three White Ales (026, 027 & 028)
I'm a bit behind in logging in my beers. Last month I notched a few more and I'm just now getting to it... I didn't get a stout like I promised myself, but at least they were all German/Belgian-style classics. Here's the latest:
For my birthday freebie, I wanted a hefeweizen beer which is currently my favorite style. It's a German style wheat beer similar to a belgian white style. The one I picked out was the Hurricane Hefeweizen from Foothills Brewery in Winston-Salem, NC. It was outstanding. It was so smooth, I could drink hefeweizen all day. It's a 5.3% abv and looked a little darker than a Blue Moon. One of the best so far. I would definately get this one again.
The next one on tap was the Lost Coast Great White. This is a Belgian style that was very good but not as special as the Foothills brew. It was lighter and fruitier than the hefe and had an abv of 4.8%.
The last of the evening was the Blanche De Bruxelles, from the Lefebvre Brewery in Belgium. It is similar to a hefeweizen, but the style is called a Witbier. This one had an orange flavor to it and reminded me of a Shocktop. It has an abv of 4.5% and was an overall very good beer.
Here is the detailed F.S. data:
Foothills Hurricane HefeweizenContainer: Draught
Style: Wheat (Weizen)
Brewer: Foothills Brewing Co.
City: WinstonSalem
Country: United States
Description: This Hefe-Weizen pours an orangey-yellow with a tight white head. Aromas of an appropriate banana-clove combination follow thru to the taste with mild carbonation. Spices are noted in the lingering finish. 5% abv.
Lost Coast Great WhiteContainer: Draught
Style: Belgian Style Ale
Brewer: Lost Coast Brewing Co
City: Eureka, California
Country: United States
Description: An American version of the Belgian style. This unfiltered beer has a striking translucent, golden color with white clouds. Seemingly a contradiction in terms, it has a full body mouth-feel but is surprisingly light to drink. Topped with a hint of citrus, provided by Coriander and a secret blend of Humbolt herbs, this beer is slightly sweet and a delight to drink in any season.
Style: Belgian Style Ale
Brewer: Lost Coast Brewing Co
City: Eureka, California
Country: United States
Description: An American version of the Belgian style. This unfiltered beer has a striking translucent, golden color with white clouds. Seemingly a contradiction in terms, it has a full body mouth-feel but is surprisingly light to drink. Topped with a hint of citrus, provided by Coriander and a secret blend of Humbolt herbs, this beer is slightly sweet and a delight to drink in any season.
Blanche De BruxellesContainer: Draught
Style: Belgian White Ale
Brewer: Blanche De Bruxelles
City: Lefe'vire
Country: Belgium
Description: A very light white ale in the Belgium style with a hint of citrus and a complex, dry finish. Formally Manekin Pis, this beer offers all the attributes one would expect from a witbier. Cloudy due to residual yeast in the keg.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Dogfish Head, Unibroue & Blue Moon (023, 024 & 025)
The next three added to my list brings me 1/8 of the way through my goal: 25 of 200. (here is your cue to say 'ooooooh')
Plus as a bonus, since my birthday is in June, I get a free beer at the Saucer. Yeah for me.
My selections this time were all unintentionally 'fruity'. I got a Dogfish Head (which you can't go wrong with) Aprihop, which is ironically made with apricots... I should have guessed. Next I had a begian from the Fire Sale menu (half-price) which happened to be a Blue Moon Rising Moon which is their Spring Ale, very fruity and spicy... kinda like a Sam Adams Summer Ale, but different (don't ask me how, I don't know how to explain that yet). Lastly I had a Unibroue Ephemere which was very fruity... the most of the bunch, but this one was apple. I'm a fruity beer drinker, but they were all pretty drinkable. Mostly the Aprihop, but the others were decent as well. I'll get me a Stout next time to get a bit more manliness back into my beer tasting :)
Dogfish Head Aprihop
Container: Bottled
Style: Fruit Ale
Brewer: Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
City: Milton, DE
Country: United States
Description: This beer pours a dark copper color with a nice head. The aroma is a blend of hops and apricot, although the fruit is faint. Flavors of arpicot are mild, but seem to counter the hops bitterness. Firm body with a tame finish. 7.5% abv
Blue Moon Rising Moon
Container: Draught
Style: Flavored Ale/Lager
Brewer: Blue Moon
City: Denver, CO
Country: United States
Description: A nice fruity and slightly spicy spring time belgian wit with the addition of limes. Good to have on a hot summer day.
Unibroue Ephemere
Container: Bottled
Style: Flavored Ale/Lager
Brewer: Unibroue
City: Chambly, Quebec
Country: Canada
Description: Ephemere possesses a fresh apple aroma with reminiscent notes of "Granny Smith" and "McIntosh." A subtle flavour of green apple is complemented by delicate notes of fruit and spice topped by a rich white head.
Plus as a bonus, since my birthday is in June, I get a free beer at the Saucer. Yeah for me.
My selections this time were all unintentionally 'fruity'. I got a Dogfish Head (which you can't go wrong with) Aprihop, which is ironically made with apricots... I should have guessed. Next I had a begian from the Fire Sale menu (half-price) which happened to be a Blue Moon Rising Moon which is their Spring Ale, very fruity and spicy... kinda like a Sam Adams Summer Ale, but different (don't ask me how, I don't know how to explain that yet). Lastly I had a Unibroue Ephemere which was very fruity... the most of the bunch, but this one was apple. I'm a fruity beer drinker, but they were all pretty drinkable. Mostly the Aprihop, but the others were decent as well. I'll get me a Stout next time to get a bit more manliness back into my beer tasting :)
Dogfish Head AprihopContainer: Bottled
Style: Fruit Ale
Brewer: Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
City: Milton, DE
Country: United States
Description: This beer pours a dark copper color with a nice head. The aroma is a blend of hops and apricot, although the fruit is faint. Flavors of arpicot are mild, but seem to counter the hops bitterness. Firm body with a tame finish. 7.5% abv
Blue Moon Rising MoonContainer: Draught
Style: Flavored Ale/Lager
Brewer: Blue Moon
City: Denver, CO
Country: United States
Description: A nice fruity and slightly spicy spring time belgian wit with the addition of limes. Good to have on a hot summer day.
Unibroue EphemereContainer: Bottled
Style: Flavored Ale/Lager
Brewer: Unibroue
City: Chambly, Quebec
Country: Canada
Description: Ephemere possesses a fresh apple aroma with reminiscent notes of "Granny Smith" and "McIntosh." A subtle flavour of green apple is complemented by delicate notes of fruit and spice topped by a rich white head.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
RedHook Long Hammer IPA (022)
I hit the Long Hammer the same afternoon as the Beer Fest last month, but forgot to blog it... at this rate it will take me YEARS to get to 200... but at any rate (hey, I think that's the first time I ever used that phrase in an actual applicable way!), here it is. Funny that it was a RedHook, because even though I'd had the brand before, I'd never tried the Long Hammer and liked it, a lot. Funny thing about it is that last weekend at my brother's place, we killed a case of RedHook that was a mix of Long Hammer IPA, another IPA, ESB, Blonde and Copperhook. They were all pretty good, especially the Copperhook.
Anyway, I'm now a fan and I highly recommend for your tasting pleasure:
RedHook Long Hammer IPA
Container: DraughtStyle: India Pale Ale
Brewer: RedHook Brewery
City: Seattle, WA
Country: United States
Description: Light golden color, this aggressively hopped beer has a hoppy aroma and flavor and a finish that is bitter to the end.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Raleigh World Beer Festival 2008
That was a good bit of beer some buds and I were able to partake of on Saturday.
Here is a link to the official program, if you're interested...
We were given a 6oz pilsner glass as we came in through the gate and it was on to the tents for sampling. There were six large tents with 18-20 vendors per tent.
Anheuser-Busch had the very first table, so they were the first on our sample list. We had beers from Brazil, Holland, Belgium, Germany & Japan, as well as domestic beers from VT, ME, MA, VA, and others. Of course there was a lot of North Carolina breweries on hand. Big Boss was one of my faves from NC. We even made a special visit to the lone Wisconsin brewery, J.T. Whitney's Pub and Eatery. I had their IPA which was better than other IPAs I've had, but not the best. I had to laugh though... Most of the vendors looks very professional with banners and flags, menu boards and t-shirts and other swag... J.T.s was as Mom-and-Pop as it got there. It was just an old dude with his wife (looking like they came straight from the family farm) tapping their beers out of a cooler! CLASSIC :) They had a good line though. I think a lot of people were drawn to their no bull-crap just beer philosophy. Good one Wisconsin!
Here's a short-list of others I recall stopping at: Redhook, Old Dominion Brewing Co.,
Foothills Brewing, Big Boss Brewing Co., Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, Carolina Beer & Beverage Co., Duvel Moortgat Brouwerij, California Cider Co., J.T. Whitney’s Brewpub & Eatery, Asahi Beer, Whitbread Brewing Co., Magic Hat Brewing Co., Newcastle Breweries, Pete’s Brewing Co., Jacob Leinenkugal Brewing Company, Miller Brewing Co., New Holland Brewing Co., Rogue Ales, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Brooklyn Brewery, Avery Brewing Co., Chimay Trappist Brewery, Ska Brewing Co., Triangle Brewing Co., Left Hand Brewing Co. & Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery
There were others, I just couldn't remember their names, and alcohol-related memory impairment has nothing to do with it! I had a brat for lunch and paced myself well considering we had 4 hours of beer tasting.
In addition to hundreds of amazing beers, there was also food vendors in the tents for sampling. There was a killer hot sauce I scored called Blue's Habanero Reserve from Blue's BBQ, Inc. I had to bring home a bottle of that stuff and it's nearly half-gone already! Cabot cheese was also there from Vermont. Now I'm from Wisconsin, and even though I may not know everything about cheese, I know good cheese... this stuff was the best I've ever had. They had cheddar, sharp cheddar, habanero and horseraddish cheeses out to sample and they were all amazing. The habanero lit me up and the horseraddish was about as hot with a bit more bite!
The festival as a whole was a ton of fun; the live music was great, the food selections were excellent (everything from pizza to Indian food!), even the people were polite and fun.
Anyway, at the end of the day, I felt more educated in my knowledge of beer... who am I kidding, I still don't know the difference between a milk-stout and a regular stout.
Here is a link to the official program, if you're interested...
We were given a 6oz pilsner glass as we came in through the gate and it was on to the tents for sampling. There were six large tents with 18-20 vendors per tent.
Anheuser-Busch had the very first table, so they were the first on our sample list. We had beers from Brazil, Holland, Belgium, Germany & Japan, as well as domestic beers from VT, ME, MA, VA, and others. Of course there was a lot of North Carolina breweries on hand. Big Boss was one of my faves from NC. We even made a special visit to the lone Wisconsin brewery, J.T. Whitney's Pub and Eatery. I had their IPA which was better than other IPAs I've had, but not the best. I had to laugh though... Most of the vendors looks very professional with banners and flags, menu boards and t-shirts and other swag... J.T.s was as Mom-and-Pop as it got there. It was just an old dude with his wife (looking like they came straight from the family farm) tapping their beers out of a cooler! CLASSIC :) They had a good line though. I think a lot of people were drawn to their no bull-crap just beer philosophy. Good one Wisconsin!
Here's a short-list of others I recall stopping at: Redhook, Old Dominion Brewing Co.,
Foothills Brewing, Big Boss Brewing Co., Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, Carolina Beer & Beverage Co., Duvel Moortgat Brouwerij, California Cider Co., J.T. Whitney’s Brewpub & Eatery, Asahi Beer, Whitbread Brewing Co., Magic Hat Brewing Co., Newcastle Breweries, Pete’s Brewing Co., Jacob Leinenkugal Brewing Company, Miller Brewing Co., New Holland Brewing Co., Rogue Ales, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Brooklyn Brewery, Avery Brewing Co., Chimay Trappist Brewery, Ska Brewing Co., Triangle Brewing Co., Left Hand Brewing Co. & Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery
There were others, I just couldn't remember their names, and alcohol-related memory impairment has nothing to do with it! I had a brat for lunch and paced myself well considering we had 4 hours of beer tasting.
In addition to hundreds of amazing beers, there was also food vendors in the tents for sampling. There was a killer hot sauce I scored called Blue's Habanero Reserve from Blue's BBQ, Inc. I had to bring home a bottle of that stuff and it's nearly half-gone already! Cabot cheese was also there from Vermont. Now I'm from Wisconsin, and even though I may not know everything about cheese, I know good cheese... this stuff was the best I've ever had. They had cheddar, sharp cheddar, habanero and horseraddish cheeses out to sample and they were all amazing. The habanero lit me up and the horseraddish was about as hot with a bit more bite!
The festival as a whole was a ton of fun; the live music was great, the food selections were excellent (everything from pizza to Indian food!), even the people were polite and fun.
Anyway, at the end of the day, I felt more educated in my knowledge of beer... who am I kidding, I still don't know the difference between a milk-stout and a regular stout.
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Maharaja (021)
Yep, one beer on my last visit, but this one was a hefty 22 ounces and a 10.32% ABV to boot.
Avery Maharaja (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: India Pale Ale
Brewer: Avery Brewing Co.
City: Boulder,CO.
Country: United States
Description: Double IPA: This IPA has such a smooth taste, although very hoppy the fruit taste balances it out to a creamy goodness. As far as the fruits, it had a nice peach taste to it. Not only is it smooth and creamy, but it has a dry crisp finish. This one is a sipper. It is a good tasty, well balanced and very drinkable double IPA.
The bottle itself looked more like a wine bottle than a beer bottle, and with the help of a hearty chili bread bowl I drained it. It had a nice sweet taste. Josh, the bartender, said it was 'hoppy'... I'm still trying to figure out exactly what that means.
The other night we went to Old Chicago with James & Michelle (excellent pizza by the way) and I had another IPA (India Pale Ale), this one was a Highland Kashmire IPA. Not so good. The funny thing about Old Chicago is that they have a very similar beer tally club to the Flying Saucer called the World Beer Tour. Old Chicago's Tour has probably been around longer than the Flying Saucer's, who knows, I really don't feel like looking it up. I know I won't be doing both though... One beer drinking club at a time people... one beer drinking club at a time.
Speaking of that, the Wold Beer Fest is this Saturday!
Anyway, here's the stats:
Avery Maharaja (BTL) Container: Bottled
Style: India Pale Ale
Brewer: Avery Brewing Co.
City: Boulder,CO.
Country: United States
Description: Double IPA: This IPA has such a smooth taste, although very hoppy the fruit taste balances it out to a creamy goodness. As far as the fruits, it had a nice peach taste to it. Not only is it smooth and creamy, but it has a dry crisp finish. This one is a sipper. It is a good tasty, well balanced and very drinkable double IPA.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Fort Collins and a Magic Hat (19 & 20)
Two new beers to tell you about...
The first is a beer from the Fort Collins Brewery called Major Tom's Pomegranate Wheat. Now, I'm still no connoisseur about beer, let alone still any good at writing reviews about them, so all I can say is, "YUM". Send that one to the presses! This was a great beer with some kick. I've had pomegranate in tea, but never thought I'd see it in a beer. Give it a go one time. I'd get it again if I saw it on the grocery store shelves.
The second was an old favorite. Magic Hat #9. Magic Hat beers rule, I don't care who you are.
Here's the stats:
Fort Collins Pomegranate Wheat
Container: Drought
Style: Wheat (Weizen)
Brewer: Fort Collins Brewery
City: Fort Collins, CO
Country: United States
Description: A nice, slightly sweet-tart Wheat Beer brewed with pomegranates. Nice amber color,with a small white head. Taste of slightly sweet fruit. Clean wheat finish.
ABV: 4.8
Magic Hat #9
Container: Drought
Style: Pale Ale
Brewer: Magic Hat Brewing Company
City: South Burlington, VT
Country: United States
Description: This fruit ale pours a golden color with a light, off white head. The aroma of apricots is distinct although not overpowering which follows through to the taste. The light body adds to the hint of sweetness which turns slightly hoppy towards the finish. Great refreshing fruit ale!
ABV: 4.6
The first is a beer from the Fort Collins Brewery called Major Tom's Pomegranate Wheat. Now, I'm still no connoisseur about beer, let alone still any good at writing reviews about them, so all I can say is, "YUM". Send that one to the presses! This was a great beer with some kick. I've had pomegranate in tea, but never thought I'd see it in a beer. Give it a go one time. I'd get it again if I saw it on the grocery store shelves.
The second was an old favorite. Magic Hat #9. Magic Hat beers rule, I don't care who you are.
Here's the stats:
Fort Collins Pomegranate WheatContainer: Drought
Style: Wheat (Weizen)
Brewer: Fort Collins Brewery
City: Fort Collins, CO
Country: United States
Description: A nice, slightly sweet-tart Wheat Beer brewed with pomegranates. Nice amber color,with a small white head. Taste of slightly sweet fruit. Clean wheat finish.
ABV: 4.8
Magic Hat #9
Container: Drought
Style: Pale Ale
Brewer: Magic Hat Brewing Company
City: South Burlington, VT
Country: United States
Description: This fruit ale pours a golden color with a light, off white head. The aroma of apricots is distinct although not overpowering which follows through to the taste. The light body adds to the hint of sweetness which turns slightly hoppy towards the finish. Great refreshing fruit ale!
ABV: 4.6
Monday, April 7, 2008
World Beer Festival Raleigh
I just scored tickets for the World Beer Festival here in Raleigh at the end of April.
At first I wasn't going to go, but Amy encouraged me to go, so how could I say no!
We'll be at the First Session from noon till 4pm. After that, we're rolling to the Flying Saucer and then onward for a cookout. Should be a blast!
Can't wait to post my experiences from that day.
At first I wasn't going to go, but Amy encouraged me to go, so how could I say no!
We'll be at the First Session from noon till 4pm. After that, we're rolling to the Flying Saucer and then onward for a cookout. Should be a blast!
Can't wait to post my experiences from that day.
North Coast & Blue Moon (017 & 018)
Beers 17 & 18 came a week or so ago, but never got around to logging them in.
The first was from the North Coast Brewing Company called Red Seal. It was recommended by the bartender who said it was his favorite. By the way, Boston Mike (the bartender I referenced) has been at The Flying Saucer for years. I just recently found out that this was his last week as he's moving to Rhode Island... not that you cared, but if you knew this guy, you would shed a tear. BUT, I digress, the Red Seal was as good as advertised.
The second was a Blue Moon Full Moon Winter Ale (by Coors). This was a good one, too. Too bad it won't be around again till November.
Here's the stats:
North Coast Red SealContainer: Draught
Style: Pale Ale
Brewer: North Coast Brewing Co.
City: Fort Bragg, Ca
Country: United States
ABV: 5.5%
Description: American style pale ale from Mark Ruderich's gang at North Coast. This fine beer is bronze-red in color with the tremendous hop taste and floral undertones of cascade hops. A beer to satisfy the hop head, but mellow enough to be a good session ale too. One of the Captain's favorite draught!
Description: American style pale ale from Mark Ruderich's gang at North Coast. This fine beer is bronze-red in color with the tremendous hop taste and floral undertones of cascade hops. A beer to satisfy the hop head, but mellow enough to be a good session ale too. One of the Captain's favorite draught!
Blue Moon Full Moon Winter AleContainer: Bottle
Style: Abbey Dubbel
Brewer: Molson Coors Brewing Co.
City: Golden, Co
Country: United States
ABV: 5.6%
Description: This full bodied abbey ale is brewed with roasted malts and a hint of Dark Belgian sugar for a perfectly balanced taste.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Belgian and another Ska (015 & 016)
Had another two beers the other day, plus the Chicken Wrap with sun-dried tomatoes (that was amazing!!! The beer may be top notch at the FC, but if you visit, make sure you get some grub, too! Everything is delicious! I especially recommend the Brat Nachos! Wow)
Shock Top Belgian White
Container: Draught
Style: Belgian White Ale
Brewer: Anheuser-Bush Brewery
City: Houston, TX
Country: United States
Description: Hazy golden hue with a dense white head. Grassy wheat aroma with a hint of citrus. Good carbonation and light body. A bit of lemony flavor, with a strong malt backbone and a spicy finish.
Ska Pinstripe Red (BTL)
Container: Bottled
Style: Amber Ale
City: unassigned
Country: United States
Description: Their Flagship brew! An American Amber Ale brewed with caramel malts & liberty hops. Medium body and good fruit character on the finish.
First I had a Shock Top Belgian White by Anheiser Busch. It's a lot like a Blue Moon, but better. Good taste, but not the best Belgian I've had.
Next I had a Pinstripe Red by the Ska Bewing Company. This was a beer drinker's beer. Just a flavorful taste without being too strong. I'd have it again. I'm becomng a big fan of Ska's beers.
Shock Top Belgian WhiteContainer: Draught
Style: Belgian White Ale
Brewer: Anheuser-Bush Brewery
City: Houston, TX
Country: United States
Description: Hazy golden hue with a dense white head. Grassy wheat aroma with a hint of citrus. Good carbonation and light body. A bit of lemony flavor, with a strong malt backbone and a spicy finish.
Ska Pinstripe Red (BTL)Container: Bottled
Style: Amber Ale
City: unassigned
Country: United States
Description: Their Flagship brew! An American Amber Ale brewed with caramel malts & liberty hops. Medium body and good fruit character on the finish.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
St. Patty's (013 & 014)
Since it was St. Patrick's Day, I couldn't go domestic, could I?
Heck, NO!
I got a Murphy's Irish Red and a Sheboygan Brat (okay, the brat was German, but they didn't have any cabbage & corned beef). I also grabbed a Horn Dog Barley Wine, which was fantastic(like I said last time, the barley wine's aren't bad at all).
Murphy's Irish Red
Container: Draught
Style: Irish Red Ale
Brewer: Ladys Well Brewery
City: Cork
Country: Ireland
Description: This amber lager is mildly fragrant with a touch of malt and slight hops. It is smooth and rounded with a lingering malt finish.
Heck, NO!
I got a Murphy's Irish Red and a Sheboygan Brat (okay, the brat was German, but they didn't have any cabbage & corned beef). I also grabbed a Horn Dog Barley Wine, which was fantastic(like I said last time, the barley wine's aren't bad at all).
Murphy's Irish RedContainer: Draught
Style: Irish Red Ale
Brewer: Ladys Well Brewery
City: Cork
Country: Ireland
Description: This amber lager is mildly fragrant with a touch of malt and slight hops. It is smooth and rounded with a lingering malt finish.
Horn Dog Barley WineContainer: Draught
Style: Barley Wine
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
City: Denver,CO
Country: United States
Description: This Barley Wine is made by the fine folks in Denver Co. It has a floral hop aroma with a noticeable alcohol flavor. Very full in body with a dry lingering finish. 10.2 abv.
Making progress and having fun :)
Three More... (010, 011 & 012)
Originally posted Sunday, March 09, 2008
Three more beers to add to my quest for Flying Saucer immortality:
Wells Banana Bread was the first. Like I mentioned in my last beer update, this one was a keeper. I had it again this time to count toward my total. Smithwicks Ale (pronounced 'Smiddicks') was my second not the best of the three but decent enough. Brooklyn Monster was my third and was great. It was served in a barley wine glass and was very fruity. I'm beginning to like the barley wine beers a bit more... Think I'll try the Harn Dog Barley Wine soon...
Wells Banana Bread
Container: Bottled
Style: English Ale
Brewer: Charles Wells Pub Co.
City: Bedfordshire, England
Country: United Kingdom
Desciption: Pours a clear amber body with a small creamy head. Aroma of "surprise" banana bread. Flavor of banana, mild hops, and nuts with citrus-peel bitterness in the finish.
Smithwicks Ale
Style: Amber Ale
Brewer: Guinness & Son Co.
City: Dublin
Country: Ireland
Description: This beer is imported from Dublin, Ireland & has been well sought after in the US. It is dark amberish red in color with a nice thick head. Very well rounded beer with some hops and roasty malts toward the finish.
Brooklyn Monster
Container: Bottled
Style: Barley Wine
Brewer: Brooklyn Brewery
City: Brooklyn, NY
Country: United States
Description: This classic Barley-Wine Style Ale, pours a deep copper color with a thin amber head. Aromas of apple, raisin bread, and a brief flourish of hops follow thru in the flavor with some bready and earthy malt notes. The high alcohol is hidden well in the lingering finish. It is vivacious when young, but will age gracefully for many years, becoming more complex over time. 10.8% abv.
Three more beers to add to my quest for Flying Saucer immortality:
Wells Banana Bread was the first. Like I mentioned in my last beer update, this one was a keeper. I had it again this time to count toward my total. Smithwicks Ale (pronounced 'Smiddicks') was my second not the best of the three but decent enough. Brooklyn Monster was my third and was great. It was served in a barley wine glass and was very fruity. I'm beginning to like the barley wine beers a bit more... Think I'll try the Harn Dog Barley Wine soon...
Wells Banana Bread
Container: Bottled
Style: English Ale
Brewer: Charles Wells Pub Co.
City: Bedfordshire, England
Country: United Kingdom
Desciption: Pours a clear amber body with a small creamy head. Aroma of "surprise" banana bread. Flavor of banana, mild hops, and nuts with citrus-peel bitterness in the finish.
Smithwicks Ale
Style: Amber Ale
Brewer: Guinness & Son Co.
City: Dublin
Country: Ireland
Description: This beer is imported from Dublin, Ireland & has been well sought after in the US. It is dark amberish red in color with a nice thick head. Very well rounded beer with some hops and roasty malts toward the finish.
Brooklyn Monster
Container: Bottled
Style: Barley Wine
Brewer: Brooklyn Brewery
City: Brooklyn, NY
Country: United States
Description: This classic Barley-Wine Style Ale, pours a deep copper color with a thin amber head. Aromas of apple, raisin bread, and a brief flourish of hops follow thru in the flavor with some bready and earthy malt notes. The high alcohol is hidden well in the lingering finish. It is vivacious when young, but will age gracefully for many years, becoming more complex over time. 10.8% abv.
A Month in the Making (005, 006, 007, 008 & 009)
Originally posted Saturday, January 26, 2008
Alright, in addition to the two flights we had when Dave & Tari came to visit, below are my latest additions to my 200 beer goal at the FS:
Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dark
Container: Bottled
Style: Dunkel Weiss
Brewer: Weihenstephaner
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description: Superb dark wheat beer. Full rich favor, sweet malt and hop finish.
Flying Dog Doggie Style Pale Ale
Container: Drought
Style: Pale Ale
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
City: Denver, CO
Country: United States
Description: Two- time medal winner at the Great American Beer Festival. This Classic Pale Ale is dry-hopped with Cascade hops grown in the Pacific Northwest and has enough hop character to satisfy hopheads. Beautiful amber-copper color and pleasant malt flavor.
Big Boss Coffee Stout
Container: Draught
Style: Stout
Brewer: Big Boss Brewing Co.
City: Raleigh, NC
Country: United States
Description: Pleasant coffee aroma with some roasted malt and a hint of chocolate. Pours a thick reddish khaki head leaving spotty lacing. Dry, bitter coffee on the tongue. Medium bodied with good carbonation. Finishes with some bitter astringincy. (Brewed with Larry's Coffee Beans)
Again, these were were all very good. The Coffee Stout was a suprising thumbs-up, since I'm not a big Stout guy. The Dunkel Weiss was thick and had some great flavor. The Doggie Style Pale Ale was my favorite of the three. I've found that you just can't go wrong with any of the Flying Dog beers! Great stuff. I also had a bottle of Wells Banana Bread beer, but it didn't count towards my 200 since you're limited to tallying three per night, no matter how many you put down. Anyway, that beer was bananas (B-A-N-A-N-A-S), sorry, had to. THAT one was the best of the night. I'd order one of those every time I went if I could.
I promise I will post messages sooner next time.
Peace
Alright, in addition to the two flights we had when Dave & Tari came to visit, below are my latest additions to my 200 beer goal at the FS:
Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dark
Container: Bottled
Style: Dunkel Weiss
Brewer: Weihenstephaner
City: Freising
Country: Germany
Description: Superb dark wheat beer. Full rich favor, sweet malt and hop finish.
Flying Dog Doggie Style Pale Ale
Container: Drought
Style: Pale Ale
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
City: Denver, CO
Country: United States
Description: Two- time medal winner at the Great American Beer Festival. This Classic Pale Ale is dry-hopped with Cascade hops grown in the Pacific Northwest and has enough hop character to satisfy hopheads. Beautiful amber-copper color and pleasant malt flavor.
Big Boss Coffee Stout
Container: Draught
Style: Stout
Brewer: Big Boss Brewing Co.
City: Raleigh, NC
Country: United States
Description: Pleasant coffee aroma with some roasted malt and a hint of chocolate. Pours a thick reddish khaki head leaving spotty lacing. Dry, bitter coffee on the tongue. Medium bodied with good carbonation. Finishes with some bitter astringincy. (Brewed with Larry's Coffee Beans)
Again, these were were all very good. The Coffee Stout was a suprising thumbs-up, since I'm not a big Stout guy. The Dunkel Weiss was thick and had some great flavor. The Doggie Style Pale Ale was my favorite of the three. I've found that you just can't go wrong with any of the Flying Dog beers! Great stuff. I also had a bottle of Wells Banana Bread beer, but it didn't count towards my 200 since you're limited to tallying three per night, no matter how many you put down. Anyway, that beer was bananas (B-A-N-A-N-A-S), sorry, had to. THAT one was the best of the night. I'd order one of those every time I went if I could.
I promise I will post messages sooner next time.
Peace
3 More Down & New Job (002, 003, & 004)
Originally posted Friday, November 02, 2007
Well, today was my last day at Phillips Architecture. It was a great gig while it lasted, but hopefully the new job that I start on Monday will be another exciting and fruitful chapter in the Smith book of fun.
Speaking of fun, a handful of friends from Phillips met up at the Flying Saucer at quittin' time to knock a few back, and that we did. I marked three more notches on my 200 goal. Below are my latest additions:
Ska Buster Nut Brown Ale
Container: Bottled
Style: Brown Ale
City: unassigned
Country: United States
Description: This brown ale produces a nice head that lasts awhile. The flavor has a touch of nuttiness due to the use of Victory & Munich malts. Well rounded brown ale with a touch of hop character.
Pauwel Kwak
Container: Bottled
Style: Belgian Strong Ale
Brewer: Brouwerij Bosteels
City: Buggenhout
Country: Belgium
Description: Full-bodied Belgian Specialty Ale. Amber in color with beautiful foam and slightly sweet, seductive malt character. Rich, satisfying Belgian experience. 8% abv
Flying Dog Tire Bite
Container: Draught
Style: Kolsch
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
City: Denver,CO
Country: United States
Description: Light lager, Kolsch style beer, with a well balanced taste and a hint of hops. Finishes very smooth and is refreshing for hot days. 5.1% abvThey were all very good. The Ska ale was excellent, a micro-brew.
The Belgian ale was interesting, kinda wish they had served it in it's intended kwak glass though, that would have been cool. The Tire Bite kolsch tasted a lot like a Miller Lite. Sorry I'm not a better beer reviewer guy... Maybe by the time I reach 50, I'll do better :)
Anyway, on Monday I start at MI Homes. Really looking forward to making new friends, learning new stuff and having lots of fun.Wish me luck.
Well, today was my last day at Phillips Architecture. It was a great gig while it lasted, but hopefully the new job that I start on Monday will be another exciting and fruitful chapter in the Smith book of fun.
Speaking of fun, a handful of friends from Phillips met up at the Flying Saucer at quittin' time to knock a few back, and that we did. I marked three more notches on my 200 goal. Below are my latest additions:
Ska Buster Nut Brown Ale
Container: Bottled
Style: Brown Ale
City: unassigned
Country: United States
Description: This brown ale produces a nice head that lasts awhile. The flavor has a touch of nuttiness due to the use of Victory & Munich malts. Well rounded brown ale with a touch of hop character.
Pauwel Kwak
Container: Bottled
Style: Belgian Strong Ale
Brewer: Brouwerij Bosteels
City: Buggenhout
Country: Belgium
Description: Full-bodied Belgian Specialty Ale. Amber in color with beautiful foam and slightly sweet, seductive malt character. Rich, satisfying Belgian experience. 8% abv
Flying Dog Tire Bite
Container: Draught
Style: Kolsch
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
City: Denver,CO
Country: United States
Description: Light lager, Kolsch style beer, with a well balanced taste and a hint of hops. Finishes very smooth and is refreshing for hot days. 5.1% abvThey were all very good. The Ska ale was excellent, a micro-brew.
The Belgian ale was interesting, kinda wish they had served it in it's intended kwak glass though, that would have been cool. The Tire Bite kolsch tasted a lot like a Miller Lite. Sorry I'm not a better beer reviewer guy... Maybe by the time I reach 50, I'll do better :)
Anyway, on Monday I start at MI Homes. Really looking forward to making new friends, learning new stuff and having lots of fun.Wish me luck.
The Flying Saucer (001)
Originally posted Friday, October 19, 2007
Today, I became a member of the Flying Saucer's UFO Club.
My first beer was a Breckenridge Vanilla Porter on tap. It's listed as "an ale that has all the chocolate and roasted flavor of a classic Porter with an enigmatic surprise thrown in for good measure, real vanilla bean. Smooth, roasted and chocolate with a creamy vanilla finish."
Very interesting. I'm not a Porter-guy, but it wasn't bad.
One down, one hundred ninety-nine to go. Ah, an explaination is in order...
The Flying Saucer is a bar in downtown Raleigh. There are ten other Flying Saucer locations scattered throughout the U.S. as well. They have over 200 beers in house from all over the world. Some friends and I went there a month or so ago and sampled about 20 beers alone. We ordered a Ireland sampler, a UK sampler and a North Carolina sampler. Each sampler plate had 8 large shot glasses of different beers from that area. Needless to say, that was a very good night.
One of the cool things about the place is that the walls are absolutely plastered with gold plates (they look like drum cymbals). If members of the UFO Club drink 200 different beers, you get your name on a plate which is mounted on the wall and they give you a free $100 bar tab for the night to celebrate.
So, as I said earlier... one down, one hundred ninety-nine to go.
Today, I became a member of the Flying Saucer's UFO Club.
My first beer was a Breckenridge Vanilla Porter on tap. It's listed as "an ale that has all the chocolate and roasted flavor of a classic Porter with an enigmatic surprise thrown in for good measure, real vanilla bean. Smooth, roasted and chocolate with a creamy vanilla finish."
Very interesting. I'm not a Porter-guy, but it wasn't bad.
One down, one hundred ninety-nine to go. Ah, an explaination is in order...
The Flying Saucer is a bar in downtown Raleigh. There are ten other Flying Saucer locations scattered throughout the U.S. as well. They have over 200 beers in house from all over the world. Some friends and I went there a month or so ago and sampled about 20 beers alone. We ordered a Ireland sampler, a UK sampler and a North Carolina sampler. Each sampler plate had 8 large shot glasses of different beers from that area. Needless to say, that was a very good night.
One of the cool things about the place is that the walls are absolutely plastered with gold plates (they look like drum cymbals). If members of the UFO Club drink 200 different beers, you get your name on a plate which is mounted on the wall and they give you a free $100 bar tab for the night to celebrate.
So, as I said earlier... one down, one hundred ninety-nine to go.
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