Split the Spoon Whacker last night with George before going out to the Jazzhaus. I don't have time to type up my review right now, but will post it a bit later today. New cell phones and cars are fun.
Alright, two days later, and here's what I've got from my notes:
De Proef corks are fun, even though they are synthetic. They give a nice pop. Poured this one into my Bordeaux glass (I find these work pretty well as an all purpose Belgian glass) and immediately there is noticeable funk in the air. Not as aggressive as some, but certainly present. Pours a slightly hazy gold, with a big fluffy, sticky white head. There is something quite noble about the look of this one.
The nose is fun, with bit of horse blanket to it. I'm picking up a touch of sweetness in it, and the classic Belgian pale nose is lurking around as well. Some white fleshed fruits are in the background as well.
Taste is full, but gentle. A little sourness up front, which is followed by pear, apple, and perhaps something citric. A touch of sweetness follows this up, but then the funk and yeast come in and dry the finish. Not a lot of alcohol presence in this one, despite being 9%. The drying finish and layers of flavor just keep me coming back for more. Every sip seems to bring up a new variation in the taste. Smashing. I will have to pick up a couple more of these to see how they cellar.
Ridiculously drinkable. This would be a good starting point to get into Flemish Ales for people. Overall I'd have to give this a 91. A stellar effort in an exceptional line of beers.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Boulder Obovoid Empirical Stout
So I lied about Robert the Bruce. I got this one as a freebie from Allen. Thanks! I was excited at the prospect of an Oak-Aged Imperial Oatmeal Stout, and while this one doesn't disappoint, it doesn't quite meet expectations.
Here goes:
Alright, a new beer from Boulder, lets see how this one is. Pours a rich, roasted black brown. The head is thick and chocolate-y. With the weather as cold as it is, it makes me want some Bailey's... The lacing on this one is sticky, leaving quite a trail of foam down the side of the glass. When held up to the light, just a touch of blood red/brown shows through. This is a pretty beer.
Smell is roasty, with notes of chocolate, coffee, with a small touch of booze. There is more hop in the nose than I expected, but it seems appropriate. Perhaps an American stout that is, gasp, balanced is on the way. I can only hope.
The taste is malty throughout. Chocolate malts prevail, with notes of coffee, caramel, and a touch of hops. The oatmeal lends a smoothed over feel to the whole affair. What I am left wondering is, is this actually oaked? There could perhaps be a note of wood if I try really hard, but it seems that this could have used another couple of months in barrels. If there was no claim of oaking, I suppose I would rate the taste higher. Getting on with things. There is a bit of sweetness right before the finish, which is not sweet at all. The hops bring in a nice, dry finish. This finish is aided by the booze in the finish.
The mouthfeel on this one is wonderful. There is a smoothness in this one that Guinness can only dream of. This is a joy to drink, but I am simply left wanting more from the flavor. A fine effort, and perhaps in the years to come they will perfect this one.
A solid 85.
Work has been insane of late. I've been pushing 60 hours a week. If nothing else, stuff is finally starting to get done. Woo!
Here goes:
Alright, a new beer from Boulder, lets see how this one is. Pours a rich, roasted black brown. The head is thick and chocolate-y. With the weather as cold as it is, it makes me want some Bailey's... The lacing on this one is sticky, leaving quite a trail of foam down the side of the glass. When held up to the light, just a touch of blood red/brown shows through. This is a pretty beer.
Smell is roasty, with notes of chocolate, coffee, with a small touch of booze. There is more hop in the nose than I expected, but it seems appropriate. Perhaps an American stout that is, gasp, balanced is on the way. I can only hope.
The taste is malty throughout. Chocolate malts prevail, with notes of coffee, caramel, and a touch of hops. The oatmeal lends a smoothed over feel to the whole affair. What I am left wondering is, is this actually oaked? There could perhaps be a note of wood if I try really hard, but it seems that this could have used another couple of months in barrels. If there was no claim of oaking, I suppose I would rate the taste higher. Getting on with things. There is a bit of sweetness right before the finish, which is not sweet at all. The hops bring in a nice, dry finish. This finish is aided by the booze in the finish.
The mouthfeel on this one is wonderful. There is a smoothness in this one that Guinness can only dream of. This is a joy to drink, but I am simply left wanting more from the flavor. A fine effort, and perhaps in the years to come they will perfect this one.
A solid 85.
Work has been insane of late. I've been pushing 60 hours a week. If nothing else, stuff is finally starting to get done. Woo!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
A Sense of Community
I'm finding more and more that the community built in this country around craft beer is a loving one. Yesterday afternoon, a loyal customer, my age, came in asked "If you were going to buy a six pack right now, what would it be?". I responded that we had been out of Left Hand's Milkstout for awhile, and that was probably what I would go with. I explained the basics behind sweet stouts, thinking he was looking for something new to try. I check out the beer at the register. The guy takes the beer, eyes it, and then hands it to me and says "Merry Christmas". I don't think I've had something make me that happy in a long time. A simple act from someone I hardly know. It makes you feel good.
I keep a bit of a secret stash at work of oddball stuff, aged items, hard to find beers etc., and like to crack them out for good customers. That appreciation is returned, and I end up with things like a New Glarus Belgian Red. It seems that any and all involved are happy to share of any bounty they may come across. I can't really think of something, at least at the moment, that makes me happier than sharing a good beer (or wine for that matter) with friends. There is something inherently social about the whole thing. If you use proper glassware and present the beer, there is a visual aspect beyond simply looking at beer in the glass. You can toast, raise a glass, look others in the eye and enjoy a beverage that has been developed into an art form over thousands of years. I think there is something very human about that on a deep, basic level.
More reviews to come! I plan on doing Robert the Bruce tomorrow, and I'll try and keep the armchair philosophy at home next time...haha.
Cheers!
I keep a bit of a secret stash at work of oddball stuff, aged items, hard to find beers etc., and like to crack them out for good customers. That appreciation is returned, and I end up with things like a New Glarus Belgian Red. It seems that any and all involved are happy to share of any bounty they may come across. I can't really think of something, at least at the moment, that makes me happier than sharing a good beer (or wine for that matter) with friends. There is something inherently social about the whole thing. If you use proper glassware and present the beer, there is a visual aspect beyond simply looking at beer in the glass. You can toast, raise a glass, look others in the eye and enjoy a beverage that has been developed into an art form over thousands of years. I think there is something very human about that on a deep, basic level.
More reviews to come! I plan on doing Robert the Bruce tomorrow, and I'll try and keep the armchair philosophy at home next time...haha.
Cheers!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Indiana Gifts!
Andy is a golden god! From Indiana:
Three Floyd's Alpha King 6 pack
Three Floyd's Pride and Joy 6 pack
Three Floyd's Robert the Bruce 6 pack
Reviews to follow!
Three Floyd's Alpha King 6 pack
Three Floyd's Pride and Joy 6 pack
Three Floyd's Robert the Bruce 6 pack
Reviews to follow!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Ommegang Chocolate Indulgence Stout
I realize that this parade of beers has been a rather absurd collection but why not drink the best things you can get a hold of. Yesterday's selection was Ommegang's 10th anniversary beer, their one off Chocolate Indulgence Stout. I sampled this one at the Brewer's Guild Holiday Party, but that was a bit late in the evening, and it was last in a rather long list of potent beers. I've got another bottle that I am laying down for a bout a year. I don't think it will do much after that point, but it seems that a year will really help develop the subtle flavors in this one.
The beer pours an opaque black, that fades to dark chocolate-y brown around the far edges. The head is the color of rich mocha, and it the ability to stick like no other. The head even has some surprisingly oily characteristics to it. Carbonation appears active, and even after a 30 minute departure to collect some raspberries, the head was still quite active. This is a pretty stout.
The smell is rich. Dark malts come out first, mingling with a rather enticing note of booziness. Hops are quite subtle, but keep this from just being a malt bomb. The chocolate comes in right at the end. It is dark, but not on the level of say 90% chocolate bars. It is reminiscent of fine cocoa powder more than anything. On to the tasting!
The malts come out first and foremost, with a malt bill that sits between an American style stout, and Belgian strong dark ale. This provides an interesting balance, and keeps it forming leaning too much on the sweet side by providing the roasted American character. The hops really don't make much appearance, except as a touch of spiciness that enhances the chocolate when it comes through. Speaking of which, the chocolate comes through as a rather subtle flavor that builds up. I have to wonder if this isn't from using cocoa powder, and the small particles accumulate on the tongue. Delicious. The pairing of fresh raspberries was an excellent choice.
The mouthfeel on this beer is velvety smooth. The oily chocolate feel enhances it, and leaves the flavors lingering in the mouth for ages. The finish is bittersweet, with just enough alcohol to dry it out nicely.
Overall: 9.3/10 This was an excellent beer, but not quite on par with some of the others I have had lately. I think that some of the flavors were too subtle, and while balance was excellent, the darker characteristics could have been brought to the forefront just a touch more. Cheers!
The beer pours an opaque black, that fades to dark chocolate-y brown around the far edges. The head is the color of rich mocha, and it the ability to stick like no other. The head even has some surprisingly oily characteristics to it. Carbonation appears active, and even after a 30 minute departure to collect some raspberries, the head was still quite active. This is a pretty stout.
The smell is rich. Dark malts come out first, mingling with a rather enticing note of booziness. Hops are quite subtle, but keep this from just being a malt bomb. The chocolate comes in right at the end. It is dark, but not on the level of say 90% chocolate bars. It is reminiscent of fine cocoa powder more than anything. On to the tasting!
The malts come out first and foremost, with a malt bill that sits between an American style stout, and Belgian strong dark ale. This provides an interesting balance, and keeps it forming leaning too much on the sweet side by providing the roasted American character. The hops really don't make much appearance, except as a touch of spiciness that enhances the chocolate when it comes through. Speaking of which, the chocolate comes through as a rather subtle flavor that builds up. I have to wonder if this isn't from using cocoa powder, and the small particles accumulate on the tongue. Delicious. The pairing of fresh raspberries was an excellent choice.
The mouthfeel on this beer is velvety smooth. The oily chocolate feel enhances it, and leaves the flavors lingering in the mouth for ages. The finish is bittersweet, with just enough alcohol to dry it out nicely.
Overall: 9.3/10 This was an excellent beer, but not quite on par with some of the others I have had lately. I think that some of the flavors were too subtle, and while balance was excellent, the darker characteristics could have been brought to the forefront just a touch more. Cheers!
Monday, December 10, 2007
NEW GLARUS BELGIAN RED
I am verging on speechless. I cracked the bottle of Belgian Red about 2 hours ago, and poured out samples for Aaron, Kush, Bridey, Gabe, and Chris. Unanimously deemed as being one of the best beers to ever cross any of our pallets. I find so much happiness in sharing such art with friends. I wonder if I could start pairing beers with people. Not just what they like, but with beers that would match the ensuing conversations etc. Ridiculously nerdy, but that has never been something I've been ashamed of.
The Red poured, well, a rosy, murky red. Not exactly pretty in the classic sense, but there was just something about the color that was arresting. The murkiness lent to the mystique, that some ancient secret dwelt in its crimson depths. Haha. The head took on the color of white zin, and seemed quite active. Despite taking two hours to finish the bottle, carbonation remained strong throughout. This beer had some serious legs, and the glass was a sticky mess of foam by the time I finished my glass. I think serving this in a Bordeaux glass was the right choice. I felt like it focused the nose quite nicely.
Speaking of the nose, cherry cherry cherry cherry cherry! Imagine if someone took two large handfuls of cherries, macerated them, put them in front of a fan that pointed right at you. Intense. I was watering at the mouth after I finished pouring my glass and the samples. I felt as though I were about to dive into an ocean of cherry juice.
The taste is big, bold, deep, tart, sweet, dark, rich, and, to quote the bottle, "a tapestry of flavors". I really don't know what to say other than that trying this beer will change your life, even if only in the slightest way. It is still beer though, in spite of the enormous cherry presence. The malts are well balanced, and the wheat gives it a smoothness that the heavy carbonation might have otherwise diminished. The hops are only there to keep this from being too sweet. All things are in just the right proportions. Simply amazing.
Overall: 10/10. First beer I've ever had that picks up that score. Just too good to miss, and I plan on doing everything I can to acquire this again. Cheers!
The Red poured, well, a rosy, murky red. Not exactly pretty in the classic sense, but there was just something about the color that was arresting. The murkiness lent to the mystique, that some ancient secret dwelt in its crimson depths. Haha. The head took on the color of white zin, and seemed quite active. Despite taking two hours to finish the bottle, carbonation remained strong throughout. This beer had some serious legs, and the glass was a sticky mess of foam by the time I finished my glass. I think serving this in a Bordeaux glass was the right choice. I felt like it focused the nose quite nicely.
Speaking of the nose, cherry cherry cherry cherry cherry! Imagine if someone took two large handfuls of cherries, macerated them, put them in front of a fan that pointed right at you. Intense. I was watering at the mouth after I finished pouring my glass and the samples. I felt as though I were about to dive into an ocean of cherry juice.
The taste is big, bold, deep, tart, sweet, dark, rich, and, to quote the bottle, "a tapestry of flavors". I really don't know what to say other than that trying this beer will change your life, even if only in the slightest way. It is still beer though, in spite of the enormous cherry presence. The malts are well balanced, and the wheat gives it a smoothness that the heavy carbonation might have otherwise diminished. The hops are only there to keep this from being too sweet. All things are in just the right proportions. Simply amazing.
Overall: 10/10. First beer I've ever had that picks up that score. Just too good to miss, and I plan on doing everything I can to acquire this again. Cheers!
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Bad Weather
The weather has dictated I stay home. Weak. This could however give me the chance to crack out my New Glarus Belgian Red. We shall see...
Brewer's Guild Holiday Party!
I found my people last night. There are a lot of them, and they drink amazing beer. Absolutely amazing beer. I ended up going, and to start off knew only John, the VP, but in pretty short order I had been introduced to the whole party. Spent a good chunk of time chatting with Jeff Jensen (the Jensen of Jensen Liquor). We both have big plans for beer in this town. Of note on the beer tastings, I tried, amongst many quality homebrews: Ommegang's Chocolate Indulgence, New Glarus' Raspberry Tart (mind-blowing ), Serafijn's Tripel, and a year old bottle of Delirium Noel. Smashing.
Also of note, I'm off to the Power Plant Strong Ale Festival in Missouri.
Breweries:
23rd St Brewery,
75th St Brewery
Alaskan Brewing Company (!)
Blind Tiger Brewery
Boulevard Brewing Company
Brugge Beer
Church Brew Works
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (!)
O'fallon Brewery
Little Apple Brewing
McCoys Public House
Mountain Sun Brewery
Power Plant Brewery
Schlafly Beer
Victory Brewing (!)
Weston Brewing Company
Stone (!)
This has been a weekend in beer heaven.
Also of note, I'm off to the Power Plant Strong Ale Festival in Missouri.
Breweries:
23rd St Brewery,
75th St Brewery
Alaskan Brewing Company (!)
Blind Tiger Brewery
Boulevard Brewing Company
Brugge Beer
Church Brew Works
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (!)
O'fallon Brewery
Little Apple Brewing
McCoys Public House
Mountain Sun Brewery
Power Plant Brewery
Schlafly Beer
Victory Brewing (!)
Weston Brewing Company
Stone (!)
This has been a weekend in beer heaven.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
De Proef Flemish Primitive Ale #1 "Pig Nun"
Today marked the arrival of quite a few new beers in the state of Kansas:
De Proef Primitive Ale #1 "Pig Nun" (Belgium)
De Proef Primitive Ale #2 "Spoon Whacker" (Belgium)
De Proef Primitive Ale #5 "Demon Fish" (Belgium)
De Proef KO Blonde (Belgium)
Jenlain Ambree (France)
Jenlain Blonde (France)
Jenlain Grand Cru (France)
Serafjin Donkel (Belgium)
Serafjin Blonde (Belgium)
Serafjin Grand Cru (Belgium)
Serafjin Celtic Angel (Belgium)
De Ranke XX Bitter (Belgium)
In any case, the three new primitive ales made their way home with me today, and one has found its way into my glass. I figured that ascending numerical order was the way to go so "Pig Nun" it is.
The synthetic cork pops easily, with a satisfying hiss. Beer pours a slightly hazy golden yellow, with a pure white head. This leaves a lot of lacing on the glass. Quite a pretty beer, but as far as looks go, not particularly unique or outstanding. However, the scent that accompanies the pour is...
WOW! Completely unexpected. The first notes from the nose are similar, but do not quite lineup with, the scent of a standard spontaneously fermented ale. However there is a bit more hop, a bit more fruit, and less sourness. Something is afoot here. Something buttery lurks in these parts, with almost a touch of...corn? I can't imagine this is an adjunct oriented beer... The taste shall tell.
Taste is just bizarre. At first, my reaction is of pleasure, than confusion, then a touch of pain, and then resounding sense of satisfaction. Butter, funk, corn (but not in a bad way) slightly sweet malt, hops, and a host of fruits come out. Yet each is subtle. This beer is not aggressive. The 9% is not apparent at all. I can hardly tell that this has any alcohol at all, other than the pleasant warming sensation it provides in my rather chilly room. The finish is so complex that it seems difficult to pick out any flavor as the leader. Despite many sweet tendencies in the flavor, the finish ends dry, with almost touch of chardonnay butteriness. AMAZING!
Mouthfeel is seemingly perfect. The carbonation levels seem spot on, and there is a smooth character to the beer. The tail on this one seems to last several minutes, so even after the departure of the final sip, the flavor sticks in the mouth well after the bottle is empty.
This one cracks into the top five all time. Overall score: 9.9/10. Not perfect, but damn near it. I want to buy a bottle of this for everyone.
As much as I promised to keep this beer oriented, I have to say my life has been absolutely incredible of late. I finally have my tied down my educational loose ends, and have a plan in place to finish everything up. It feels good to be back on track. Adieu and farewell!
De Proef Primitive Ale #1 "Pig Nun" (Belgium)
De Proef Primitive Ale #2 "Spoon Whacker" (Belgium)
De Proef Primitive Ale #5 "Demon Fish" (Belgium)
De Proef KO Blonde (Belgium)
Jenlain Ambree (France)
Jenlain Blonde (France)
Jenlain Grand Cru (France)
Serafjin Donkel (Belgium)
Serafjin Blonde (Belgium)
Serafjin Grand Cru (Belgium)
Serafjin Celtic Angel (Belgium)
De Ranke XX Bitter (Belgium)
In any case, the three new primitive ales made their way home with me today, and one has found its way into my glass. I figured that ascending numerical order was the way to go so "Pig Nun" it is.
The synthetic cork pops easily, with a satisfying hiss. Beer pours a slightly hazy golden yellow, with a pure white head. This leaves a lot of lacing on the glass. Quite a pretty beer, but as far as looks go, not particularly unique or outstanding. However, the scent that accompanies the pour is...
WOW! Completely unexpected. The first notes from the nose are similar, but do not quite lineup with, the scent of a standard spontaneously fermented ale. However there is a bit more hop, a bit more fruit, and less sourness. Something is afoot here. Something buttery lurks in these parts, with almost a touch of...corn? I can't imagine this is an adjunct oriented beer... The taste shall tell.
Taste is just bizarre. At first, my reaction is of pleasure, than confusion, then a touch of pain, and then resounding sense of satisfaction. Butter, funk, corn (but not in a bad way) slightly sweet malt, hops, and a host of fruits come out. Yet each is subtle. This beer is not aggressive. The 9% is not apparent at all. I can hardly tell that this has any alcohol at all, other than the pleasant warming sensation it provides in my rather chilly room. The finish is so complex that it seems difficult to pick out any flavor as the leader. Despite many sweet tendencies in the flavor, the finish ends dry, with almost touch of chardonnay butteriness. AMAZING!
Mouthfeel is seemingly perfect. The carbonation levels seem spot on, and there is a smooth character to the beer. The tail on this one seems to last several minutes, so even after the departure of the final sip, the flavor sticks in the mouth well after the bottle is empty.
This one cracks into the top five all time. Overall score: 9.9/10. Not perfect, but damn near it. I want to buy a bottle of this for everyone.
As much as I promised to keep this beer oriented, I have to say my life has been absolutely incredible of late. I finally have my tied down my educational loose ends, and have a plan in place to finish everything up. It feels good to be back on track. Adieu and farewell!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Kriek de Ranke
What better way to wind down a great weekend than with a high caliber Belgian beer!
This evenings selection is Kriek de Ranke, from the Ranke Brewery.
After popping the top on this 750, I was concerned to note some fluid on the cork. Not a good sign. The cork split on me as well. However, I was still able to remove it with no debris falling down into the beer. Once the cork has been removed, the smell of sweet spontaneously fermented goodness fills the house. The beer is okay!
The kriek pours a murky orange red pink into an over-sized wine glass. Nice frothy white head forms immediately and remains a full cap till the bottom of the glass. This is quite a pretty beer.
The nose on this one is enormous. From the moment the bottle was opened, the smell took over the house. Chris asked as soon as I walked into the room if it was a lambic. Nice. Lots of funk, with horse blanket, wet dog, musty barnyard and the like. There are also notes of peach, cherry, pear, and a bit of apple.
The taste is all I could hope for and more. The sweet malts come in at the front, and then the fruit hits. All of the fruits from the nose are present in great quantity, leaving a lovely fruit salad expression on the tongue. Then the funk hits. Not quite a puckering sourness pulls into the forefront, and dries the pallet. The layers of complexity in this verge on mind-boggling. It would take many bottles of this over many years to pick up all of the subtle notes involved. I look forward to this process greatly.
An easy drinker for something of such complexity, this bottle made a relatively hasty disappearance, and still left me wanting more.
Overall: 9.5/10 Another amazing beer from the Missouri hall. This is something that is so unique I wish I could have everyone try it. "I don't like beer" my ass...
This evenings selection is Kriek de Ranke, from the Ranke Brewery.
After popping the top on this 750, I was concerned to note some fluid on the cork. Not a good sign. The cork split on me as well. However, I was still able to remove it with no debris falling down into the beer. Once the cork has been removed, the smell of sweet spontaneously fermented goodness fills the house. The beer is okay!
The kriek pours a murky orange red pink into an over-sized wine glass. Nice frothy white head forms immediately and remains a full cap till the bottom of the glass. This is quite a pretty beer.
The nose on this one is enormous. From the moment the bottle was opened, the smell took over the house. Chris asked as soon as I walked into the room if it was a lambic. Nice. Lots of funk, with horse blanket, wet dog, musty barnyard and the like. There are also notes of peach, cherry, pear, and a bit of apple.
The taste is all I could hope for and more. The sweet malts come in at the front, and then the fruit hits. All of the fruits from the nose are present in great quantity, leaving a lovely fruit salad expression on the tongue. Then the funk hits. Not quite a puckering sourness pulls into the forefront, and dries the pallet. The layers of complexity in this verge on mind-boggling. It would take many bottles of this over many years to pick up all of the subtle notes involved. I look forward to this process greatly.
An easy drinker for something of such complexity, this bottle made a relatively hasty disappearance, and still left me wanting more.
Overall: 9.5/10 Another amazing beer from the Missouri hall. This is something that is so unique I wish I could have everyone try it. "I don't like beer" my ass...
Friday, November 30, 2007
He'Brew Genesis Ale
Alright, this rather tumultuous week is drawing to a close and more beers from the Missouri stash are calling my name. Today's selection is Genesis Ale from He'Brew. As my beer is cooling down, I am indulging further nerdy tendencies by listening to "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway". I think in some deep, pretentious recess of my mind, I'm hoping for an aural pairing with the beer I am about to consume. HA.
On a side note, I really want a time machine. I watched a documentary a couple of days ago on Genesis (the band) and am absolutely amazed at the bizarre stage prescense of Peter Gabriel. In many ways, I think I was born about 20-25 years too late. No matter.
Moving on to the main event:
Upon the pour, I fear my pairing of "Lamb" might be off. The beer is amber in color, though the label claims that it is a "light brown ale". Fair enough, I didn't make the beer, so who am I to say what it is or isn't intended to be. Changed the music to "A Trick of the Tail", much lighter in most regards, with a greater infusion of classic Genesis humor. The color of the beer is a pristine amber, with lager-like clarity. Carbonation is quite visible and seems appropriately active. A medium full head fades through the glass, with just a ring remaining at the end. It retains a pleasant cream color with just a touch of the amber from the beer.
Smell is grainy, with a touch of barley husk. While quite simple, it is inviting. Strikes me as really good home cooking in a way, simple but immensely pleasing. There is a touch of hops towards the end, which leads me to believe this will be well balanced.
The taste follows in kind, with the slightly sweet grain and huskiness coming to the forefront. The hops are more fully realized as well, and provided a surprising and refreshingly dry finish to what could easily be an over malted brown. Again, simple, but supremely satisfying.
Mouthfeel is light to medium, and the carbonation is fitting. Quite an easy drinker, and I regret only having one instead of a six pack. My grief is brief, as I realize many more beer runs will be in order.
Overall: 7.75/10 A superb beer, but not phenomenal. This would make an excellent early fall session beer.
In other beer news, Freestate is going to open up a bottling facility in east Lawrence. They are going to be able to put 25,000 barrels a year, which is a tenfold increase from their current production levels. I may make some inquiries and see if I can't get in on the ground floor. I'll be a brewer yet.
On a side note, I really want a time machine. I watched a documentary a couple of days ago on Genesis (the band) and am absolutely amazed at the bizarre stage prescense of Peter Gabriel. In many ways, I think I was born about 20-25 years too late. No matter.
Moving on to the main event:
Upon the pour, I fear my pairing of "Lamb" might be off. The beer is amber in color, though the label claims that it is a "light brown ale". Fair enough, I didn't make the beer, so who am I to say what it is or isn't intended to be. Changed the music to "A Trick of the Tail", much lighter in most regards, with a greater infusion of classic Genesis humor. The color of the beer is a pristine amber, with lager-like clarity. Carbonation is quite visible and seems appropriately active. A medium full head fades through the glass, with just a ring remaining at the end. It retains a pleasant cream color with just a touch of the amber from the beer.
Smell is grainy, with a touch of barley husk. While quite simple, it is inviting. Strikes me as really good home cooking in a way, simple but immensely pleasing. There is a touch of hops towards the end, which leads me to believe this will be well balanced.
The taste follows in kind, with the slightly sweet grain and huskiness coming to the forefront. The hops are more fully realized as well, and provided a surprising and refreshingly dry finish to what could easily be an over malted brown. Again, simple, but supremely satisfying.
Mouthfeel is light to medium, and the carbonation is fitting. Quite an easy drinker, and I regret only having one instead of a six pack. My grief is brief, as I realize many more beer runs will be in order.
Overall: 7.75/10 A superb beer, but not phenomenal. This would make an excellent early fall session beer.
In other beer news, Freestate is going to open up a bottling facility in east Lawrence. They are going to be able to put 25,000 barrels a year, which is a tenfold increase from their current production levels. I may make some inquiries and see if I can't get in on the ground floor. I'll be a brewer yet.
Fraoch Heather Ale
With the change in weather, beer sales are sadly slowing and my interactions with customers turn to a greater focus on wine. I am almost sad in a way, but I've been working on my wine knowledge of late so I am getting to stretch my new chops.
In any case, this evenings drink of choice is Fraoch Heather Ale, produced by the Williams Bros. Brewing company of Alloa Scotland. This should be an interesting go round, as this beer is un-hopped. It is instead flavored with heather flowers.
Pours a murky burnt orange, with a bright white head. A half inch had rises to the brim of the glass, but quickly fades down to a ring with some patchy coverage over the beer proper. Very few bubbles break the surface after the initial pour. There is minimal, patchy lacing on the glass.
The smell is quite unique. The heather is readily apparent. It reminds me of a wind open meadow in late spring, after everything has come into bloom. Distinctly floral notes combine with a fair amount of malt sweetness to to present an intriguing, if not enticing, nose.
Taste follows much in line with the nose, with the floral, slightly clove-like heather flavor hitting the tongue first. The malt bill is quite sweet, and at the end of each sip I am left expecting the balancing hop bitterness that will never come. Perhaps a homebrew version of this, except with the addition of hops would be a good choice... All in all the flavor is pleasant, but lacks depth. The taste is just too sweet for this to be one to keep coming back to.
Mouthfeel is a bit flat, with the carbonation fizzing out rather quickly. Slightly viscous, there is a sense of a film forming on the tongue. Not unpleasant, but odd. A touch of a numbing sensation follows.
Overall: 6/10 A unique beer, but not actually "good" by my taste. I am glad have tried it, and will view it as what it is: part of the historical evolution of beer.
In any case, this evenings drink of choice is Fraoch Heather Ale, produced by the Williams Bros. Brewing company of Alloa Scotland. This should be an interesting go round, as this beer is un-hopped. It is instead flavored with heather flowers.
Pours a murky burnt orange, with a bright white head. A half inch had rises to the brim of the glass, but quickly fades down to a ring with some patchy coverage over the beer proper. Very few bubbles break the surface after the initial pour. There is minimal, patchy lacing on the glass.
The smell is quite unique. The heather is readily apparent. It reminds me of a wind open meadow in late spring, after everything has come into bloom. Distinctly floral notes combine with a fair amount of malt sweetness to to present an intriguing, if not enticing, nose.
Taste follows much in line with the nose, with the floral, slightly clove-like heather flavor hitting the tongue first. The malt bill is quite sweet, and at the end of each sip I am left expecting the balancing hop bitterness that will never come. Perhaps a homebrew version of this, except with the addition of hops would be a good choice... All in all the flavor is pleasant, but lacks depth. The taste is just too sweet for this to be one to keep coming back to.
Mouthfeel is a bit flat, with the carbonation fizzing out rather quickly. Slightly viscous, there is a sense of a film forming on the tongue. Not unpleasant, but odd. A touch of a numbing sensation follows.
Overall: 6/10 A unique beer, but not actually "good" by my taste. I am glad have tried it, and will view it as what it is: part of the historical evolution of beer.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Upon returning from Missouri
This afternoon my roommate Chris and I ventured forth into the dark and unwelcoming wasteland of Missouri in search of two things: new beer and a repaired iPhone. The success of our venture was resounding.
I will spare the details of the rather uneventful trip to the Apple Store on the Plaza, but prior to it there was an immense purchase of beer unavailable in the state of Kansas.
The haul:
1 750ml Kriek de Rank from Brewery de Ranke (Belgium)
1 750ml Boulevard Smokestack Saison (USA)
1 750ml Boulevard Smokestack Double Wide IPA (USA)
1 22oz He'Brew Jewbelation 11th Anniversary Ale (USA)
1 16.9oz Fraoch Heather Ale (Scotland)
1 6-pack Bell's Two Hearted Ale (USA)
1 6-pack Bell's Special Double Cream Stout (USA)
1 6-pack Bell's Kalamazoo Stout (USA)
1 4-pack Goose Island Bourbon County Stout (USA)
1 6-pack mixed beers: Schlafly Coffee and Oatmeal Stouts, Schlafly Dry Hopped APA, Schlafly Winter ESB, Bell's Winter White Ale, and He'Brew Genesis Ale
All in all, a great start into the beers I can't normally get a hold of. I also stayed under my budget of $100, although just. However, having new beers around will keep me busy for quite some time, and I doubt I will expend any other money on alcohol for sometime, with the exception of drinks at the bars.
My impressions of the liquor store (Lukas Liquor on Stateline Road) these were all acquired from were mixed. The store is far larger than any I have been in, and reminded me of the size of say, a smaller Target. The selection, to one who is only familiar with the selection in Kansas, is impressive. Only a select few beers I have not heard of, but probably pushing over 100 as far as beers I have not had the joy of sampling. Pricing was mixed, with most prices being equivalent to my place of work, with some being noticeably more, and a few being around a dollar less. The staff was marginally friendly, and though I was provided a recommendation, it wasn't followed with any information. My apologies for the rather dull description of the store, but on we go.
I sampled one of the Bourbon County Stouts earlier this evening, and shared it with my friends Kevin A., Bridey, Kush, and John C. It was meet with both great appreciation (Bridey and Kevin) or a touch of apprehension (John and Kush). My own opinion was quite high, and I will review the beer in depth at a later time. I will say, however, that I cannot wait to have it with chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream.
The subject of my first proper review (Bell's Special Double Cream Stout) is currently chilling down to a lovely 45 degrees.
Here goes:
First of all, the package design is simple, but effective. The label is a subdued in color and style, with a cream colored background, a leafless tree branch, and the name in bold font. I'll upload a picture once I get a means of taking one, but for now that will have to suffice.
I chose to pour this one into a 10 oz snifter, and it comes out a deep black/brown. The head is surprisingly light in color and reminds me of chocolate milk with only a drop of Hershey's in it. This head fades quickly, leaving a sticky ring around the edge.
The first note out of the nose is slightly sweet, with hints of cream and vanilla. The body behind it is enormous, with a large roasted malt bill making its presence known. This beer, however, avoids the somewhat acrid scent that some stouts (Avery's Out of Bounds...) that I have been noticing of late. This one simply smells decadent.
I have been missing out. This is a delicious beer. The first sip is malt heaven. I should note that at this point, the ring of foam has taken on a somewhat darker color. Interesting. The flavor just continues to impress me. Chocolate milk, fresh whipped cream, and just a touch of ever so slightly smoky bitterness. For the second time this evening, I'm left wanting chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream. Truly phenomenal. I gave my roommate (Chris) a sip, and I think his sentiments match mine. Superb. I do not think I've had a beer yet that catch match the smooth body of this beer.
My only regret with this beer is that it is so rich that I can only enjoy one glass in a sitting.
I cannot really find complaint with this beer on any level.
Final Judgment: 9.5/10 I feel lucky to have 5 more of these stashed away. I have been missing out.
My next entry will not be as long, I'm sure. I plan on keeping this mostly relating to be so topics will include work, tasting, sharing, and thoughts on that topic. I promise I'll keep my personal life out of here...mostly.
I will spare the details of the rather uneventful trip to the Apple Store on the Plaza, but prior to it there was an immense purchase of beer unavailable in the state of Kansas.
The haul:
1 750ml Kriek de Rank from Brewery de Ranke (Belgium)
1 750ml Boulevard Smokestack Saison (USA)
1 750ml Boulevard Smokestack Double Wide IPA (USA)
1 22oz He'Brew Jewbelation 11th Anniversary Ale (USA)
1 16.9oz Fraoch Heather Ale (Scotland)
1 6-pack Bell's Two Hearted Ale (USA)
1 6-pack Bell's Special Double Cream Stout (USA)
1 6-pack Bell's Kalamazoo Stout (USA)
1 4-pack Goose Island Bourbon County Stout (USA)
1 6-pack mixed beers: Schlafly Coffee and Oatmeal Stouts, Schlafly Dry Hopped APA, Schlafly Winter ESB, Bell's Winter White Ale, and He'Brew Genesis Ale
All in all, a great start into the beers I can't normally get a hold of. I also stayed under my budget of $100, although just. However, having new beers around will keep me busy for quite some time, and I doubt I will expend any other money on alcohol for sometime, with the exception of drinks at the bars.
My impressions of the liquor store (Lukas Liquor on Stateline Road) these were all acquired from were mixed. The store is far larger than any I have been in, and reminded me of the size of say, a smaller Target. The selection, to one who is only familiar with the selection in Kansas, is impressive. Only a select few beers I have not heard of, but probably pushing over 100 as far as beers I have not had the joy of sampling. Pricing was mixed, with most prices being equivalent to my place of work, with some being noticeably more, and a few being around a dollar less. The staff was marginally friendly, and though I was provided a recommendation, it wasn't followed with any information. My apologies for the rather dull description of the store, but on we go.
I sampled one of the Bourbon County Stouts earlier this evening, and shared it with my friends Kevin A., Bridey, Kush, and John C. It was meet with both great appreciation (Bridey and Kevin) or a touch of apprehension (John and Kush). My own opinion was quite high, and I will review the beer in depth at a later time. I will say, however, that I cannot wait to have it with chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream.
The subject of my first proper review (Bell's Special Double Cream Stout) is currently chilling down to a lovely 45 degrees.
Here goes:
First of all, the package design is simple, but effective. The label is a subdued in color and style, with a cream colored background, a leafless tree branch, and the name in bold font. I'll upload a picture once I get a means of taking one, but for now that will have to suffice.
I chose to pour this one into a 10 oz snifter, and it comes out a deep black/brown. The head is surprisingly light in color and reminds me of chocolate milk with only a drop of Hershey's in it. This head fades quickly, leaving a sticky ring around the edge.
The first note out of the nose is slightly sweet, with hints of cream and vanilla. The body behind it is enormous, with a large roasted malt bill making its presence known. This beer, however, avoids the somewhat acrid scent that some stouts (Avery's Out of Bounds...) that I have been noticing of late. This one simply smells decadent.
I have been missing out. This is a delicious beer. The first sip is malt heaven. I should note that at this point, the ring of foam has taken on a somewhat darker color. Interesting. The flavor just continues to impress me. Chocolate milk, fresh whipped cream, and just a touch of ever so slightly smoky bitterness. For the second time this evening, I'm left wanting chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream. Truly phenomenal. I gave my roommate (Chris) a sip, and I think his sentiments match mine. Superb. I do not think I've had a beer yet that catch match the smooth body of this beer.
My only regret with this beer is that it is so rich that I can only enjoy one glass in a sitting.
I cannot really find complaint with this beer on any level.
Final Judgment: 9.5/10 I feel lucky to have 5 more of these stashed away. I have been missing out.
My next entry will not be as long, I'm sure. I plan on keeping this mostly relating to be so topics will include work, tasting, sharing, and thoughts on that topic. I promise I'll keep my personal life out of here...mostly.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)