What's In Your Beerglass?

[Beer Nazi]

Tonight;

A couple pints of my own Bock, one Bluebery Ale, and before I doze off I will partake in a Young's Double Chocolate Stout.

[deanna]

One glass Goose Island IPA with dinner. A glass of Shiraz as I chat. (We're out of beer!) Truly, I do like a good red wine once in a while.

Blueberry Ale - eh? Tell us about the taste...

[gale]

The last couple of evenings I've been enjoying one of my newer favorites, Moose Drool Brown Ale. So tonight I've decided to rotate in one of my older favorites, Alaskan Amber.

[Aleman]

Home brews:
Wee Heavy Scottish Ale
Dark Belgian Triple
Irish Red Ale

Guest Brews:
Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale
Anderson Valley Winter Solstice
Rogue Double Bastard
Newcastle Brown Ale
Bass Ale
Full Sail Wasale

I never drink two of the same beer in a day. Variety is the spice of life.

[BREWERDLUX]

WELL I HAVE TO AGREE WITH ALE MAN. VARIETY IS GOOD. I HAVE BEEN BREWING MY OWN FOR A WHILE AND I CHANGE ALLOT OF THINGS UP. IM DRINKING A PINT OF OATMEAL WHEAT STOUT I MADE.

NAZI YOU HIT IT ON THE HEAD WITH THE YOUNGS DOUBLE CHOCOLATE. I TOASTED THAT ON AT MY WEDDING.


PROSIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[davesarman]

Best time of year for beer! Right now I've got a Weizen Dopple Bock from Capital Brewing. Awesome beer. I went in with 2 other buds this weekend and bought about 10 or 12 different winter beers this weekend and we split them all up. Great way to get a variety and cut the costs.

Speaking of weddings...at my wedding, instead of champagne, we served New Glarus' Apple Ale. Outstanding! I wish they still made it. I thought it was just as good as their Belgian Red cherry beer which has won numerous awards.

[tjthresh]

Tonigh I will be having Samuel Smiths Winter Warmer 02/03!

[Aleman]

I second the recommedation that this IS the time of year to buy good beer. I call November-December my "buying season" for commerical beers. I usually enter January with three or four cases in stock.

Life is good!

[BeerCheese]

I wholeheartedly agree about the selection of beer available during the winter season. Recently, I've been enjoyng Anchor's Our Special Ale, Sierra's Celebration, Sam Adam's Winter Lager and Bridgeport's Ebenezer Ale.
Yesterday it was Unibroue's Maudite. While it's not a christmas beer, it's still an enjoyable Begian-style red.

[tbendajr]

Limburgse Witte. Just one. No others tonight. Just wanted something relax me before bed after putting up more @#$% christmas lights.
Tom

[Deacnbleu]

Last night, Dogwood's Winter Ale, night before, Michael Sheas Irish Amber. Tonight, I tapped a fresh keg of my own Rye Ale.

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Either Middle Ages Impaled Ale or Saranac Caramel Porter. I haven't had a good hoppy IPA lately, but a darker beer would be good on a cold night such as tonight.

[BigIndieBeerMan]

I drank this...

[Beer Nazi]

Originally posted by deanna
One glass Goose Island IPA with dinner. A glass of Shiraz as I chat. (We're out of beer!) Truly, I do like a good red wine once in a while.

Blueberry Ale - eh? Tell us about the taste...

Wine is good every now and then!!

My Blueberry Ale came out pretty decent. This was a recipe I came up with from scratch and the first time I brewed it. It was also my first try at using real fruit.

It has a nice fruity essence as opposed to being syrupy and overly sweet. You get a hint of blueberry and a slight tang from the tartness of the berries.

It has a light nose and mild hop flavor thanks to the Hallertau hops.

It has a sweet malty body while not being heavy.

It's got a good fizz to it, but nothing like a Frambois Lambic.

The color is on the dark brown side due to the berries, and it has a slight purple tint to it.

I'm pretty pleased with the way it came out.

[Ilwaco Ed]

Full Sail Amber. Fixed the Fire Chief's truck and that's how he paid me. Usually I get paid in fresh crab or smoked salmon, but this time it was Full Sail. God, I love this town!!
Ilwaco Ed

[skydiver81]

My lunch sure would be a whole lot better with a Samuel Smith's Taddy Porter!

Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale's sparky hops would wake me up.

I think I have to leave work early!

[njvikefan]

Sierra Nevada Celebration to start and than to my session beer for the football game, Victory Hopdevil.

[bsardin]

It was Chimay Grande Reserve. Saturday, I had Mackeson Triple stout with the smoked ham we had for dinner ( would have preferred Rogues Shakespear Stout with ham but I live in Arkansas and I can't always find what I want) and Lindemans Framboise Raspberry Lambic with the cheesecake we had for dessert. Yummy! Pairing beer with food can be a fun and reward hobby. People will usually do a double take when I tell them I am trying to find a beer to compliment each course of my meal. Look out wine people, we beer people are starting to get educated and move in on what once was your turf!

[brewbob]

http://home.twcny.rr.com/bobandcindy/pics/maipa.jpg












This is a great, hoppy, true-to-style IPA!

Bob
http://home.twcny.rr.com/bobandcindy/animated%20GIFs/beerstoutdrinker.gif

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Bobby, Bobby, Bobby... It's good to see someone else on here singing the praises of Middle Ages (Hey, I'm a poet...). I mentioned a few of their brews (including this one) in the hoppiest beer thread. I had one the other night. I'd forgotten just how nice ImPaled Ale really is.

Last night I had Samuel Adams "Old Fezziwig" based on the recommendation of several people on this board. It's great, have you ever had it?

[Danimal]

Bobby and all,

I have not had the opportunity to try Imapaled, though I was recently impressed by another IPA from the same neck of the woods - the Saranac IPA (not the standard green labelled Pale Ale). Good stuff...try it. Tastes kinda like Sierra Pale Ale though it has some different undertones....good beer from Utica.

Dan

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Dan,
It's funny you should mention the Saranac IPA. As I was trying to make my beer choice for the evening I actually had a bottle of Saranac's IPA in my hand. But, since I had an IPA just the other day, I decided on Samuel Adams Vienna Style. Perhaps tomorrow the Saranac IPA will make it into my beer glass.

[Danimal]

BIgIndie,

As I sip on my reliable Sierra Nevada Pale tonight, I can't help but recommend two other pales from my native midwest area - both are awesome brews...

1. American Pale Ale, Bluegrass Brewing Company, Louiseville, KY (www.bbcbrew.com)

2. Bell's Pale Ale, Kalamazoo Brewery, Kalmazoo, MI
(http://www.bellsbeer.com)

FYI - both of these brewers also produce admirable porters, for your enjoyment....

Cheers,
Dan

The place down the street from me with the best beer selection:
http://www.junglejims.com/Beer/Main_Beer.htm

[Danimal]

Indie and Bobbie,

After perusing the site of my local beermonger, I see that ImPaled is on the list, I will make it a point to grab some prior to new years to try - thanks for the recommendation!

Happy '03,
Dan

[Oristo]

A drop of Stone's Ruinnation IPA, sipping it out of a wineglass

[BigIndieBeerMan]

I hit the Jungle Jim's link, and just about fell down and hit my head when I saw the amazing beer selection. Are there any houses for sale in your area? I'm thinking of relocating just so I can be closer to that beer mecca. What a truly amazing list of beers! I've actuall had Bell's Pale Ale. I enjoyed it, although it wasn't my favorite pale ale. I did end up drinking the Saranac IPA last night. Very nice floral hoppiness. As far as Middle Ages, I can recommend any of their beers without the slightest hesitation. While you're at Jungle Jim's do yourself a favor and pick up a sixer of both Grail Ale and Beast Bitter (if you like ESB). And although I'm not a huge fan of fruit beers, the Apricot Ale has a nice flavor. Not at all overpowering in the fruit department. Be sure to tell me what you think of these beers, and I'll try and get my hands on some American Pale Ale.

Cheeers!
BigIndieBeerman

[Danimal]

Indie,

Just got back from Jungle Jims, unfortunately they did not have the ImPaled....something about a distributer issue. So, I was forced to pick up the following:

1. Beast Bitter, Middle Ages (the only version they had)
2. Alpha King, Three Floyds
3. Samuel Smiths Winter Ale

I will sample the Bitter tonight and leave you my thoughts...I'll keep an eye out for ImPaled...

Thanks for the recommendations,
Dan

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Dan,
I've heard good things about all three of those beers, although I've only had the Beast Bitter. I look forward to hearing your opinions - I don't think you'll be disappointed.

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Good Beer...

[Danimal]

Indie,

I have been an avid fan of both Three Floyds and Samuel Smiths for years....I have yet to be disappointed by any of their offerings. The Alpha King is a great, hopped up pale ale that can take on the best of the "originals" from across the pond, it is also a brew I sample about every 6 months as a calibration aid... the Sam Smith's offerings are among the best imports for hop-heads, in my opinion. The Winter Ale is in keeping with this trait... Concerning the Beast, I was impressed overall, though the head left a little to be desired. The taste was quite smooth with a hoppy finish, which I enjoy, though I thought the brew did not fully impress a distinct character - I have had others that were quite similar. It is good enough, though, to warrant a repeat visit to my fridge....


Happy '03,
Dan

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Thanks for your input about the Beast Bitter. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I just looked at the beer list of a semi-local drinking establishment and they have both 3 Floyds Alpha King and Samuel Smith's Winter Ale. My beer buddies and I might just have to take another road trip - it's been months since we've been there. If you want to check out their link just for fun, go to www.bluetusk.com and take a look at the beer list. They've got a great deli too.

[Danimal]

Indie,

No wonder you are a Middle Ages fan, you are from the same neck of the woods.... Amazing how we take a liking to the local brews, eh? As one who went to high school in Lake Placid, NY and college in Potsdam (Clarkson U.) I can appreciate the area and the reputation for fine brews - Saranac, Middle Ages, Utica Brewing, etc... You have the climate that fits the Sam Smiths Winter Ale, I believe you will enjoy it.... I will continue my quest for ImPaled and update you on my results.

Cheers,
Dan

[Danimal]

Indie,

I dropped by Jungle's today and, lo and behold, ImPaled was sitting on the shelf. Along with that one I picked up some Two Hearted Ale from Kalamazoo Brewing (the Bells brewery). Wow - these two are both impressive... though I prefer the Two Hearted which is bottle aged and has more character. The ImPaled was not as hoppy as I expected, based on the recommendations in the "Hoppiest" beer thread. To me, Impaled tastes more like the English style pales (Bass, etc) and less like the Americal Pales (Sierra Nevada, etc). The Two Hearted, by comparison, is smooth like the English ales but hopped like the Americans....a very likable combination. You gotta see the head on this stuff, very impressive.

If you have not seen it, check out www.beeradvocate.com for other brew reviews. Awesome site with ratings by type. Two Hearted is ranked 2nd out of 182 American Style IPAs and ImPaled is ranked 11th out of 220 English Style IPAs, both in the top 5%. I got the Two Hearted because it was the top ranked brew available around here, number one on the list is Imperial Pale Ale from Rogue Ales. I agree with the assessment, it is definitely one of the best IPAs I have had the pleasure to quaff.

Dan

[BigIndieBeerMan]

I'm glad you like ImPaled Ale. I know it's not all that hoppy by most standards, but it's one of the hoppier I've had recently. I'm rather new to this "real beer" thing (in case you couldn't tell by my not so well thought out Macro thread), and I've not had the range of different beers a lot of you have had (mostly due to a local selection that, well...sucks). Prior to this spring the most exotic beers I'd had were Guinness and Killian's. Since then I've had most everything the local microbreweries produce, but getting things from other places is tough (except for going to the Blue Tusk). I'm going to use the reccomendations of you and a few others, and work to expand my beer horizons as much as my geographical location will let me. Tonight I think I'll have a Sam Adams Winter.

Cheers,
Indie

[beer ninja]

Absolutely -- Stone, Double Bastard!

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Actually, last night instead of the Sam Adams Winter, I had the another Cranberry Lambic. I don't know if this is a common descriptor when talking about beer, but in addition to the cranberry and syrupy characteristics, there was a distinct buttery flavor. I've never seen anyone describe beer as buttery before, but I just did.

[deanna]

Very, very interesting.


Originally posted by Beer Nazi
Wine is good every now and then!!

My Blueberry Ale came out pretty decent. This was a recipe I came up with from scratch and the first time I brewed it. It was also my first try at using real fruit.

It has a nice fruity essence as opposed to being syrupy and overly sweet. You get a hint of blueberry and a slight tang from the tartness of the berries.

It has a light nose and mild hop flavor thanks to the Hallertau hops.

It has a sweet malty body while not being heavy.

It's got a good fizz to it, but nothing like a Frambois Lambic.

The color is on the dark brown side due to the berries, and it has a slight purple tint to it.

I'm pretty pleased with the way it came out.

[beer-head]

Hi , ever tried Fullers Jack Frost, mmmmmmmm, lovely, and i must applaud for your choice of double chocolate stout .

[Beer Nazi]

I've never heard of Jack Frost, what's it like? I'll keep an eye out for it.

I've got a few cans of DCS with the pressure capsule on the ready - it's supposed to get down to 28 on Thursday night / Friday morning. Perfect for a fire and a couple DCS's!! :)

Deanna, I'm thinking of bottling the next batch. If I do I'd be happy to send a couple bottles up to you.

[bierman2000]

Depends where I am? At home usually a choice of 5 or more bottled brews to choose from. Always a German, and many times a Belgian Style Ale. Hefeweizen in the summer/fall and Dopplebocks just about year round. If out at a friend who has 6 on tap in a basement, it depends on his selection. A hand pull Stout and ESB and cold Abbey Double, Pils , Fest, and a seasonal beer. Very adventuresome when it comes to tasting new beers as long as it's not mass produced or a Lite beer. If you are going to drink Lite beer why drink at all !!

[Danimal]

I am slumming tonight, had to drop to the level of a Sierra Nevada Porter :D, Which is a hellava brew, just not quite complex enough to be bragged on...tomorrow I will repent with a pint of Bell's Porter or BBC Porter, just to recalibrate the palate, you know....

D

[mbritojr]

Tonight (Valentines Day) I am having a glass of Costal Extreme's Storm of the Year '00...I got a gift pack consisting of the previous 3 years '00, '01, '02 from the little lady. Single malt beers that are just too amazing to describe, this annual brew is different every year. Aged for over 6 months before release, their flavors are deep and complex. Plus, they come corked in really neat blue glass bordeaux bottles with painted labels. Cool huh?

http://www.newportstorm.com/

I would encourage ANYONE to go out & try and get these beers. I hear that if you (or more likely your friends the dead presidents) ask real nice, they might mail them too ya...
;)

[Danimal]

Let's see....the kids are just going to bed and the wife is asleep....it's V day....I'm up babysitting....so I am drinking a potent brew. Sierra Nevada Bigfoot Ale is sufficient to make me forget about fun Vday's prior to marraige (8+ years is long anyway...) and I'm instead enjoying the better things in brew. This is an awesome Barleywine, starts like a good IPA but packs the wallop (9.6% of one) with a more malty finish. Ummm....what wife?

[s00z]

I just finished a nice Ca Merlot with dinner and deciede to venture into some unknown territory. Czechvar just became availiable here in Texas (a few months ago) and I'm trying that out for size...yummy. I plan on trying one of my 99 Anchor X-mas ales before I head to bed and will report on that tomorrow! As for the blueberry ale...I bet that rocked! Save me some next time....I'm local! -BeerGal

[hnrblbrbrn]

I keep planning on trying more of the Sam Adams line. I had my first taste before I was married. Unfortunately(??) to get to the premium domestics I walk by Guinness, Beamish, Harp, Newcastle, Warsteiner, and such so I pick them up before I reach Pete's Wicked and the others.
If I stay strong I'll pick up the local brew, Boulevard. It's brewed in KCMO. I'm not sure how far out they distribute, but family in Topeka gets excited over seeing their wheat. Here in Lawrence they entire line is offered.

I also enjoy making my own such as Irish Stouts and English Browns.

[deanna]

Last night it was Bell's Trumpeter Stout. Gee I like this. Really chocolate-y. Good with a hearty beef stew.

Bell's description:
"A dry stout with chocolate notes and hints of oak. A cross culture of three different yeasts during fermentation delivers a delightfully different body with a soft finish."

http://www.bellsbeer.com/

I'll see if I can discern the oakiness in the next bottle.

btw, I've never cellared beer. Would this be a good candidate?

[tavernjef]

Within the last week or so have been going back and forth with Hales Wee Heavy Winter Ale, Anchor's X-mas & New Years Special,
Bell's Cherry Stout, Goose Island Oatmeal Stout,
Allagash Grand Cru, and Sierra Nevada 'Bigfoot'.
To go with dinner I've been going with
Abita Turbodog or Pyramid IPA and the
after dinner drinks have been those above.

[Beer Nazi]

Lagunitas Hairy Eyeball today... YUMMMM.....

[kpo]

I recently picked up "The Midas Touch" brewed by Dogfishhead Craft Brewery, "America's most extraordinary and adventuresome small brewery," according to Michael Jackson.

Upon excavation of The real King Midas' Tomb ( the man who inspired the legend) in central Turkey, U. of Pennsylvania achaeologists discovered a ram's-head drinking set in the iron-age tomb. Inside was residue from the drink, drunk at his grand funerary feast 2700 years ago, and which was molecularly analysed;... now Dogfishhead makes the brew from barley, honey, white muscat grapes and saffron, as found in the drinking set.

My notes: sweet, very honey-ey; sticks to the glass like a port, tastes delightfully warm and smooth. I'm not a conniseur, so not sure if it's the grapes or the saffron that make it so sweetly, richly rounded, but whichever, it's a beautiful golden Ale.

Check it out!

[guzzler67]

Had an old favorite tonight: the Ommegang Abbey Ale (out of Cooperstown, NY).. They make several other Belgian-style ales that usually come in 750ml bottles, including Rare Vos and Hennepin.
They advertise the Abbey as a "rich, fruity, aromatic, burgundian brew". It's all that and it pairs well with a variety of food, especially chicken.
Just another choice to make from all those great brewers out there.

[fiorine]

I had a good old fashioned Belgian Duvel. I can only drink one or two though. That stuff goes to my head, been in the US for too many years to drink like a Belgian anymore.

[BigIndieBeerMan]

Originally posted by Danimal
Indie,

Just got back from Jungle Jims, unfortunately they did not have the ImPaled....something about a distributer issue. So, I was forced to pick up the following:

1. Beast Bitter, Middle Ages (the only version they had)
2. Alpha King, Three Floyds
3. Samuel Smiths Winter Ale

I will sample the Bitter tonight and leave you my thoughts...I'll keep an eye out for ImPaled...

Thanks for the recommendations,
Dan

Since my last post on this thread I've had the chance to sample some good micros and good homebrews as well. I uncovered a great place that sells a nice selection of micros. Ironically, it's about a mile from my parents' house. I knew they sold beer, just not micros. Anyway, here were my selections this past Saturday.

1. Alpha King, Three Floyds
2. 90-Minute IPA, Dogfish Head
3. 2003 Monster Ale, Brooklyn Brewery

I've only sampled the Alpha King thus far, but I was quite impressed with it. Not the hoppiest out there, but very well-balanced - and with great body and mouthfeel. Thanks for the recommendation, Dan!

[Beer Nazi]

Tried a Jack Frost the other night - not bad, very malty. I enjoyed it.

The maltyness was similar to that of Samichlaus, without the fruit ans spice falvors of Sami.

[Danimal]

Indie,

I'm glad you liked the Alpha King, its a keeper...

I picked up some Stone's to try this weekend,I got the Arrogant Bastard Ale and the Ruination IPA - both have been recommended on this list, we'll see how they really are. As a standby, I picked up some Two Hearted Ale (Kalamazoo Brewing), one I know I like... I'll let you know about the Stone's.

Dan

[tavernjef]

Golden Monkey and Old Horizontal this week.

Hats off to Victory!

I think I'm still buzzin'.

[hnrblbrbrn]

I found Budvar finally. After all the porters and brown ales I've been drinking, it seems so light. Right now I've Goose Island's Hex Nut Brown and finishing off Mackeson. The Mackeson seems a little rich, but went great with the chocolate pudding cake my wife made.

Hmm, maybe if I have the cash Bass and Guinness for St. Patrick's. The only way to have a good Black and Tan.

[BluesHarp]

In my fridge:

2 six-packs of Alpha King, and a keg of homebrew (pale ale)
1 six pack New Glarus (Wisconsin) " Hop Hearty Ale"
6 cans Guinness Stout Draft

In my glass? " Hop Hearty Ale"

If you like Alpha King, look for this (in limited areas, of course).

BTW, are custom avatars allowed, and how do I get one posted?

[batkins]

I just uncapped my first Hop Devil......interesting ......damn tasty. I'm sold.

[tavernjef]

This past week or so I've been busy in the beer department.

Iv'e had.....
Bell's Expedition Stout
Rogue Dead Guy Ale
Allagash White
Lagunitas Amber
Anderson Valley Boont Amber
and did some serious drinkin for St. Patty's Day
and my B-day.

Cheers all:D

[davesarman]

In the past couple of days, I've had 2 mind blowingly good beers! The first of which is Hair of The Dog's Adam. A local beer store was selling magnum bottles of these for only $10 each! So I bought all they had (5 bottles), two of which will be traded for some great Pennsylvania beers! (thanks pabobcat!) Amazingly complex, fruity and strong, it is simply one of the best beers I've ever had! If you've never had any of their beers, I highly recommend any of them! Here's a link to their website:
http://www.hairofthedog.com/

The other one I just had today. Oude Kriek from Hanssens Artisanaal brewery in Dworp, Belgium. I found this corked 750 ml bottle in my favorite beer store a couple of years ago and decided to uncork it today. Wow! Whatta beer! This is truly a classic Belgian cherry lambic, spontaneously fermented, aged over 3 years in oak casks before bottling, hand blended....amazing! I sat in my porch, read a book and took in the early spring sunshine whilst sipping this amazing brew. I will definitely pick up some of their other varieties as well! This is a perfect example of why Belgian beer is so intruiging! Here's a link to their very interesting website!
http://www.proximedia.com/web/hanssens.html

[tavernjef]

Davesarman,


Hair of the Dog,

I totally agree on the Adam, absolutly outstanding!

5 magnums? Wow!

Try Fred and Rose, those are also very good.

But Adam is the best. Enjoy those magnums.:cool:

[BluesHarp]

I just picked up a bottle of Robinson's Old Tom Barleywine. Haven't had a chance to taste it yet, though. It's brewed in England, anyone ever heard of it?

[Richard English]

Robinsons is an old established brewery in Stockport. All their beers are excellent.

Old Tom is a very strong (8.5% ABV) old ale. It is available on draught here (though you wouldn't want too many.

In bottle it is also very good - though not bottle-conditioned. Treat it with respect and drink it at cellar temperature - not frozen to death!

[BluesHarp]

Thanks Richard...looking forward to tasting it

BTW - I wouldn't think of over-chilling my beer!

[rabidbeerjunkie]

Richard,
I also purchased some Old Tom, during a visit to Chicago, that I have not tried yet. I picked up 1 to try and 4 to put in the cellar. I did try the Northern Glory and Double Hop both, also from Robinson's, just last night. Both were very nice, well-balanced ales. Capital Imports from Wisconsin recently brought them to the States, and I'm glad they did. Chalk up another for the Brits!!!

Todd

[BluesHarp]

The Old Tom is not nearly as "big" a beer as Bigfoot, for example; but is is nicely balanced with a very wine-like quality. It definately should be drank slightly chilled, excessive cold would certainly mask the complexity and subtle undertones.

[Bryant]

Tonight I have Sam Adams Cherry Wheat and Harp Lager. The Harp doesn't go in my favorite pils glass though. I somehow like it straight from the bottle (though one of the few I prefer that way.)


Bryant

[kpo]

I'm enjoying the case of Paulaner Hefeweizen I picked up for $20.

That should take me into Spring smoothly...

[jeffmac]

This thread seems to be in serious need of reviving so, here goes. I'm a little late on this post as this is what was in my glass on Friday night, and it's now Sunday night but, better late than never. Shortly after dinner I tried my first Bell's Expedtion Stout. Now it is said of many stouts that they pour like burnt motor oil but this truly did. It was one of the thickest beers that I have ever seen. I was very pleased with it as I have been with all Bells products. Perhaps because of the high alcohol content I found it to be a little sweet in the finish as opposed to say, Old Rasputin. I have a bottle of Rogue Imperial Stout that I plan to try soon so, I'm anxious for the comparison.

About 30 minutes after finishing the Expedition Stout, I had a Hell for Certain Belgian-style Ale from Bluegrass Brewing. No yeast sediment in the bottle but, a nice spicy yeast character with a sweetness in the middle that reminded me of molasses candy. I wish the brewery would put some info. on their website about this beer in regard to type of malt, hops, etc.

[hopjack13]

well perhaps i'll join you , i just finished a hornydevil (alesmith) prior to that i had a chimay premiere not bad , the alesmith hornydevil threw me off a little as it was too cold when first poured , after it warmed up i found it to be quit enjoyable and very complex, it said on the bottle to serve @ 50-55 degrees, i found room temp to be best, different strokes for differnt folks i guess.

[fretlessman71]

Originally posted by BluesHarp
Thanks Richard...looking forward to tasting it

BTW - I wouldn't think of over-chilling my beer!

Question: is it a bad idea to keep beer in the fridge and THEN let it warm before you open the bottle? Does the "over-chilling" do anything to the taste on a long-term basis? Just about ready to get reeeeeeeely hot in TN, and even a dark cupboard underneath the counter in the kitchen doesn't seem to stay too cool. Is there a protocol I ought to be following in order to keep my beer fresh as long as possible?

BTW... I can't drink COLD beer unless I can see through it... ;)

[Richard English]

I suppose that depends on the temperature of your fridge! If it's one that takes the temperature down to, or below, frezzing, then I would say it's a bad thing. If it goes down only to around 40 degrees Farenheit, then that should be fine.

By the time you've opened and poured the beer into a room-temperature glass it will be well on its way to being ready to drink.

[jeffmac]

Ok, I know Arrogant Bastard is not a beer one usually associates with so called "lawnmower" beers but, I'm sipping on one right now and I will be mowing my lawn shortly so.... Actually this is my first experience with the bastard and I must say I love it. I was pleasantly surprised with the color. I wasn't aware that the color would be near brown. Hops seem more evident in the bitter finish than in the aroma. This is definitely going to make mowing the lawn much more pleasurable.

Also, glad to seem that I'm not the only one struggling with the issue of where to store my beers. The coolest part of my house is the floor of my kitchen pantry but, it's up to about 60-65 degrees and my refrigerator is only slightly above freezing. My general rule of thumb is this; I keep beers like Trappist Ales and Imperial Stouts in the pantry and then try to "guesstimate" how long they should stay in frige before drinking, usually about 30 minutes. Most other beers I just keep in the frige and take out a few minutes before drinking.

[hopjack13]

most stone beers will say to keep refrigerated on the bottle. the hornydevil (alesmith)i dont think i over chilled, i poured it to the temp recommended on the bottle , i just found it more enjoyable slightly warmer.

[jeffmac]

I'm wrapping up the evening with a Rogue Imperial Stout. I think I prefer it just slightly over Bell's Expedition Stout. The Rogue seems to have a bit more bitterness (87 IBU) but, I did prefer the body on the Bells. I would like to do a side-by-side tasting of Rogue Imperial, Bell's Expedition, and Old Rasputin. Anyone else have any thoughts on these?

[fretlessman71]

I guess the reason that I'm asking is that I have a 6 pack of Sierra Nevada Bigfoot that I'm going to SAVE. I read an article about someone who saved 6 consecutive years of the stuff and had a professional tasting and judging done for each year. And the beers LASTED! I just don't want to do anything to jeopardize the flavor of them after going to all this trouble to get the stuff (Bigfoot isn't normally shipped this side of the Mississippi River). Does anyone else out there HOARD beer for that long? If so, what beers are able to tolerate hibernating for that period? I know that most beers don't last much past 4-5 months....

Maybe there ought to be a NEW "room" in the Public House of our little beer community for newbies like me. What sayeth all ye to that? :)

[steveh]

I have about 10 years worth of Big Foot and Anchor Christmas ale stored in a cool dry place. Along with some sundry micro brewed barley wines, a few years' vintages of Sierra Nevada Celebration, and a few bottles of Thomas Hardy's 1993 ale that are serving as my mortgage bottles (to be drunk in celebration of paying off the mortgage).

I've always heard that keeping beer is akin to cellaring fine wine. Keep it in a cool area and leave it undisturbed. While the high alcohol of the barley wine is supposed to be the factor to help the beer "age," I've been told that the spices are the benefit of Anchor's Christmas.

How far east of the Mississippi are you? I've never had much trouble (at least in the last 10 years) getting the Big Foot in the Chicago area. Granted, it's never a big production run, so it doesn't last long.

AFA - a special room for newbies? Heck no, jump right in - the water, er - beer's fine! As a sign in a few of my favorite taverns reads, "You are a stranger here but once."

S.

[steveh]

Originally posted by steveh
While the high alcohol of the barley wine is supposed to be the factor to help the beer "age," I've been told that the spices are the benefit of Anchor's Christmas.

Whoops - before the Hopheads jump on me - of course the hops in SN's Big Foot and Celebration is the other big factor helping to preserve the beer! Sorry, not a strict hophead - but I do respect the contribution.

S.

[jeffmac]

The workday is over and I'm off to the patio with a Rogue I2PA to enjoy what's left of this fine Kentucky afternoon. And, Fretless, I agree with Steveh. You don't need a new room, just jump right in. Anyway, you can't go wrong in this room, just tell us what you're drinking.

[hopjack13]

anyone try this stuff? n how long can i keep it?

[fretlessman71]

Thanks for making me feel welcome! Although I fear that my wife is starting to feel a little neglected, I'll make sure to keep poking my head in once in a while. :)

I'm usually a porter person... I've sworn off any and all alcohol until I get my weight down to 195, so right now the cellar is bare... save for a 22 oz. bottle of Young's Double Chocolate Stout that I'm letting sit on the counter, DARING me to drop the pounds. I'm almost there, and I've never tried this stuff, but it comes HIGHLY recommended by several of you (for me AND my wife, who is not a beer person at all but is a huge chocolate fiend, as am I), so when the scales get friendly enough to show a grand total of 18 lbs. lost since I began at 213, I'll pop that baby in the fridge and indulge that evening when I get home. You can be sure I'll give you a full report when the time comes around.

I'm in Nashville, steveh, and Bigfoot didn't show up here until March. Maybe it just takes that long to get stuff like that out here.... JD and/or Bud seems to be the drink of choice around here. (sigh....)

[steveh]

Trappist Ale! Yum. Yes, I've had it numerous times...Hmm, not lately though, need to do something about that...

AFA how long it may keep, it has a pretty high ABV, but I don't know if that alone will preserve a beer. In fact, I'm not sure there has been any hard and fast procedure set up for laying down beers. The practice of keeping wine is centuries old, so there is much experience to be drawn from - but beer? Anyone know?

My procedure has been more experimental than anything, and for the pure fun and curiosity.

S.

[steveh]

Originally posted by fretlessman71
I'm almost there, and I've never tried this stuff, but it comes HIGHLY recommended by several of you (for me AND my wife, who is not a beer person at all but is a huge chocolate fiend, as am I)

You may want to get an extra bottle - for more encouragement and because you're gonna wish you had two when the first is gone!

Oh - be sure it's not over-chilled, that'll diminish the flavor. I'll be having a draft or two of the DCS at a party a week from now - can taste it already...

S.

[Guy Sajer, FS]

I can't get the dbl chocolate here (New Orleans, LA), but had it several times visiting relatives in Texas. The only way you won't like it is if you like neither stout nor chocolate. An excellent bier!
My latest discovery is an English ale from Wychwood called Hobgoblin ale. Man, is that stuff good. Bit more expensive than I'd like, but hard to pass up since it's one of the most pleasing ales I've ever had.

[kpo]

I just picked up one of my two favorite beers in the world - Uplands Brewing Company's "Dragonfly IPA", form Bloomington, Indiana.

I was in Bloomington yesterday and picked up a growler of "dragonfly" - so delicious!!!!!

Now all I need is a glass of Three Folyds "dreadnaught IPA" to chase it with!

[hopjack13]

well i bought a few bottles but am not sure how long they've been sitting on the shelf there, guess i'll try one this weekend and find out :) westmalle, is that stuff hard to find or what? im still looking for three weeks now! am i reaching?

[jeffmac]

Fretless, you mentioned that you live in Nashville. Do you ever make it to the Blackstone Brewery? I was there a couple of years ago and had the St. Charles Porter which I really enjoyed. I didn't get to try any of the other beers but, it looked as if they had a pretty good lineup.

[steveh]

Originally posted by hopjack13
westmalle, is that stuff hard to find or what? im still looking for three weeks now! am i reaching?

Mmm - another blast from the past - haven't had that in a while either. It looks like Westmalle is available at one of the local liquor chains in the Chicago area - $18 a 12 ounce bottle? That can't be right, a case is only $70 - unless there's only 4 bottles in a case?!

Anyway, the chain is http://www.dicarlowine.com/

And they ship to these states according to the web site:
California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin

Happy hunting!

S.

[hopjack13]

thnx steveh, i guess i'll probably have to take a trip in to L.A. :mad: i hate that place , skyline nice though. if not i'll try that website and order it. thnx again.

hopjack13

[fidcastro]

So, a couple of nights ago my wife and I were each given a glass of Orval. Since we are going to Belgium in three weeks, we could have waited, but my friend insisted.

My wife tried her's first, and she said it tasted like bandaids! I was a bit more hopeful, so I tried mine. I didn't think it tasted like bandaids, but it did have an overpowering piney taste to it, and I was unimpressed. I figured it was a bad bottle, and I vowed to give it another shot.

I went out and bought my own. Also, my friend had refgigerated his before giving it to us, so it was well below the 55 degrees it should have been served at. I tried it and was much happier with the taste. My wife still thinks it tastes like bandaids, but I think she just has that stuck in her mind.

Anyway, my question: Accourding to Michael Jackson's Great Beers of Belgium, the tast of Orval varies from batch to batch. Has anyone had Orval on enough occasions to tell me how true this is? Could our first sampling been a bad batch, or could it have been the temperature? Any thoughts?

Fid

[hopjack13]

well i don't know much about orval only that it is the oldest of the six trappist brewerys, other then that i'll have my first taste of it this weekend. however , temp has alot to do with it , orval comes in small bottles as far as i know.(not a lot of time to spend on a beer for your first intro) i had my first taste of the alesmith hornydevil last weekend (750ml) . i filled my 23oz beer glass with it. the first taste was cold, maybe too cold , i didn't have a thermometer handy, and i too was unimpressed . as i got towards the half way point of my glass the beer had warmed quite a bit and i found it A LOT more enjoyable . as a matter of fact the further down i got the happier i was (with the beer and myself);)

[BluesHarp]

Originally posted by kpo

Now all I need is a glass of Three Folyds "dreadnaught IPA" to chase it with!

"Dreadnaught IPA"?? I've had Alpha king and Extra Pale, but have never heard of Dreadnaught...What am I missing??

[BluesHarp]

Originally posted by kpo

Now all I need is a glass of Three Folyds "dreadnaught IPA" to chase it with!

"Dreadnaught IPA"?? I've had Alpha king and Extra Pale, but have never heard of Dreadnaught...What am I missing??

[jeffmac]

I just finished and Alpha King myself and will be having a Bearded Pat's Barleywine from Bluegrass Brewing for desert. I've been planning on trying the Bearded Pat's for awhile and just haven't gotten around to it. I have it in the fridge now bringing it down to about 55 degrees.

Speaking of Trappist Ales, has anyone tried Rochefort. It just became available in my area and my wife bought me two bottles of the 8 and two bottles of the 10. So far, I've only had the 10 and it was undoubtedly one of the best beers that I have ever had. I'll probably drink one of each and put the others down for a while (or as long as I can go without drinking them).

[hopjack13]

well after i get ahold of my westmalle i'll be after the rochefort next, i guess. where abouts is your area?

[fidcastro]

Putting down a Corsendonk Abbey Brown right now, and it is doing me mighty fine. Of course, that might be because I just killed a big corked bottle of Kasteel Bier. That did me pretty good. It comes it at 11abv, and I am feeling toasty and almost ready for bed.

Belgium in exactly 4 weeks.

Prost!

Fid

[jeffmac]

I live in Kentucky and fortunately my local liquor store does a great job of getting in some hard to find beers. I was in Florida a few weeks ago and saw some Westmalle. I'm beginning to wish that I had brought some home. Instead I opted for Scaldis, Saison Dupont, and an artisinal brown ale called Zattie Bie which I'm really anxious to try and a four pack of Pranqster from North Coast.

[Brewdepest]

I have my final bottle of Samuel Smith's stout in the fridge waiting for me tonight. I keep meaning to go pick up that pony keg of paulaner at the Winetree but just haven't gotten around to it yet. A gallon of goodness in the fridge.

[jeffmac]

I have an Ommegang Hennepin waiting for when I finish mowing the lawn this evening. It's been a while since I had this one so, I'm pretty excited.

[hopjack13]

im out here in southern california and where i live there are roughly a 250,000 people i still have to drive about an hour away to find a decient store with a decient selection of beer. vindome is the place i go or beverages and more is the other,they're pretty big places with all kind of good stuff. but with the population out here one would think that there would be a bigger demand for real beer?:confused: it's very sad and very disturbing.

[fidcastro]

Hey Hopjack13,

Where in SoCal are you?

Fid

[hopjack13]

i live in the inland empire but work in orange county, o.c. has a few good spots to buy beer but there's not much in the i.e. my mother lives in the high desert and there an't sh#@ out there. that's like being stranded on some island somewhere , if you don't bring it with you then you'll go with out! i've spent hours trying to find a bottle conditioned ale up there and other then sierra nevada(god bless thier souls) there's nothing!

[fidcastro]

I'm not in the i.e., but I still drive about an hour to get a good selection. I'm in Claremont, but I drive to Costa Mesa to buy beer. I go to to a place called Hi-Time Wine Cellars (http://www.hitimewine.com/). They've got a pretty good selection. Then I can visit Henry-n-Harrys' Goat Hill Tavern, as they have 141 beers on tap, and the atmosphere is laid-back beach style. There is a Yardhouse accross the street from the Goat Hill, but the pretentious bartenders there are either arrogant, or they don't know jack about beer.

Since you work in OC, you could probably hit Hi-Time and the Goat Hill on the way home.

Fid

[fidcastro]

I just had a Fraoch Heather Ale. When I poured it, the aroma seriously made me think of Pork n Beans. This disturbed me.

I tried it anyway. It's interesting. Not like anything I've had before. I don't know what Heather is, but it gives this beer a unique flavor. I'm not sure if I like it yet... but maybe after three or four I'll be a fan.

Fid

[hopjack13]

well if your in claremont then your about .....20min from upland? on san antonio and foothill there's liquorama they have a pretty good selection there. my wifes' uncle lives in upland so when we go visit, i go visit liquorama. i keep asking her "wana go see your uncle this weekend?" to which she replys "you just want to go to liquorama , you don't want to see my uncle." actually i live in riverside, there's a trader joes i've been meaning to hit and check out but haven't made it yet. there's a place in orange called hollingshead.....have you been there?

[fidcastro]

I haven't been to Hollingshead, but someone else mentioned it to me. Maybe I'll check it out.

I am actually on the border of Claremont and Upland. Liquorama is about 10 minutes with traffic. But I HATE Liquorama. The owner is a total jerk, and he is unwilling to even attempt to try to look in his book to see if it is remotely possible to order a beer that he doesn't already carry. Especially with kegs (I have a kegerator). He won't even try to get a beer that isn't on his list.

Contrarily, the guy at Hi-Times will do whatever it takes to get me whatever I want. He rules.

I made a vow last Thursday that Liquorama would never get another cent from me. EVER! :mad: Even if I am homebrewing and need to make an emergency trip, I would prefer to drive an hour than go to Liquorama.

Sorry about the rant, but I have strong feelings...

On a seperate note, if your wife's uncle lives in Upland he is minutes from me. A trade on the 120 would be pretty easy. Any Belgian beers you've been dying to try? Rodenbach? Westvleteren? Just say the word.

Fid

[hopjack13]

well they got upset with me the lastime i was there as i helped my self to the beer in the fridge through the walk in entry in the back...ooops they weren't too happy, oh well im not there for them just the beer . okay sense your going to belgium and the only way to get it is to go i'll say westvleteren! good luck bringing it back though im not sure the airllines will let you. but if you say you can then i guess you can. the rochefort i think i can get here. the only two i can't get my hands on are the westvleteren and the achel but im not real intrested in the achel ... unless you happen to try them both and think it's better the the westvleteren. on second thought if you could get one or two from each that would be great! but im not sure you can just buy them anywhere you have to go to the monasteries i think, and im not sure how far apart they are?

[fidcastro]

Westvleteren is on my itinerary, but I wasn't planning on visiting achel. If I come upon it I will get a couple. I'm planning on bringing back at least a case of Westvleteren (assuming I like it - but that should be a safe assumption)

For the record, I said Rodenbach, not Rochefort. I don't think the Rodenbach Grand Cru has been available in the US for about two years. Whatever the case, I will certainly hook you up. I found out I can bring as much back on the plane as I can carry, but I have to expect to be charged for the excess weight, excess baggage, and taxes on anything I bring back over 1 liter. I'll be paying lots of taxes.:D

So, I leave 2 weeks from tomorrow, and I will be back on June 10th. Expect to hear from me soon thereafter.

Fid

[hopjack13]

i have a step sister in virginia and her husband is on the hunt for me for the 120 he siad he'll hang on to it until i get there. and your right you did say rodenbach(i was thinking trappist) but if you take a trip down the 10 to the 57 south and exit yorba linda blvd and head east about a half a mile on your left would be vindome liquor , you can find rodenbach there. they have rochefort 10 , orval and chimay and a whole lot of other beers. if you haven't been there it might be worth stopping in on if your going to be in the area. the grand crue i dont think i've seen there though.
cheers

[hopjack13]

me and fid most likely killed this thread (we should of been in the swapmeet section) but ..... i found out orval will keep for about 5 years. also stephen beamonts advertisement on this website(www.belgianshop.com) i clicked on it and found i could order any trappest (belgian trappest) or belgian beer there... including rodenbach grand cru .

[Bosco]

Just poured myself another pint of Saranac Caramel Porter.

[Fast_Eddy]

Tonight will be a couple of Sam Adams Pale Ale.

[hnrblbrbrn]

Just tried a new-to-me ale. McEwans Scottish Ale, it's darker than the browns, almost porter dark but not as thick. Next time I'm buying a six pack so I won't have the frozen mug to drink out of.

[tavernjef]

Tonight I'll be celebrating our 9 year anniversary with a couple goodies.

New Glarus Raspberry Tart
and of course Seirra Nevada Celebration,
although the wife likes Two Hearted more then the SN so that'll be her capper after dinner.:)

[TEDBROCK]

This is not a lofty selection like the others coming in, however the wife and I really enjoy HUBER BOCK. For the price the taste is clean with alot of character. Joseph Huber Brewing Company, second oldest in Wisconsin. Prost!!:D

[steveh]

Originally posted by TEDBROCK
This is not a lofty selection like the others coming in, however the wife and I really enjoy HUBER BOCK. For the price the taste is clean with alot of character. Joseph Huber Brewing Company, second oldest in Wisconsin. Prost!!

I haven't had that in years - is it still $5 a case plus deposit on the returnable bottles? Ahh - the good ol' days. ;)

S.

[TEDBROCK]

$5 a case!?! Yowza. It has gone up a wee bit but a fine beer. I am in Northern Illinois and we pay $12.99 plus deposit ($1.50). The liquor store is going to discontinue the returnable bottle and bring in the NRB's. They say people aren't returning the bottles because they are great for homebrewing. Ain't that great? Prost!

[steveh]

Yeah, I'd say it's gone up considerably - I guess it *has* been some time. Funny thing is, I don't think the deposit has gone up!

So...if they don't get the bottles back, and get to keep the deposit money, aren't they just selling the bottles? I probably have some old Hubers in my home-brew bottle collection.

S.

[TEDBROCK]

Steveh---you are correct sir.They are a great bottle with thick glass and a sturdy case.I can't wait to get outta work and crack a Jo. Huber product. You should do the same. Prost!

[fretlessman71]

I MISS HUBER BEER!!! We used to make "black and tans" with the light and the dark. Used to be able to get it in Colorado, but not anymore. Haven't seen it here in TN... but I still have a few of the boxes for moving stuff around. Great boxes, too!