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.