So, as promised I said I would write another blog on Saturday about 38 Degrees in Alhambra.
I went with a group of friends, one of which frequented 38 degrees and was shocked to find that I had never set foot in it. Finding parking on a Friday night is a nightmare, but we managed and we were sat immediately even though the place was packed to the gills
Now we spent some time viewing the food menu and immediately setting it aside for the giant drink menu (of course). Upon first glance I saw the list of beers on tap and was completely shocked to see what they had, when I turned the next page, that shock turned to awe. They had things like Deschutes Abyss, which I know came out around Thanksgiving when I went and had practically sold out when my family descended upon the brewpub in Portland and also Jubelale which comes out around the same time in December. I meant to take an official count of both taps available and their bottle selection, but I would guess there's 20-25 tap selections and at least 50 or more bottles available.
While the guys started off with what was called "Clay's Flight", which consisted of: Dogfish Head's Paolo Santo, Big Sky's Space Goat, and Fathom (and I believe Fireworks by Craftsman). I immediately asked the server, "Can I make my own flight?"
"Of course". Granted, there was a bit of a mix up as far as my first four choices but hey, I know how difficult it is to be a server, we don't always get it right. But the server was very good about everything, from grabbing us water to the next round.
I started off with...
1. Drakes Pink Boots Saison
2. Old Stock (by Northcoast Brewing which is one of my all time favorite breweries)
3. Fireworks, by Craftsman (another Saison)
4. Stone Vertical Epic
Another friend went with the SF Beer Week Flight.
In all, we had a second and third round of testers (you would have to spend a week there with at least 6 people to go through everything once, including bottles)...and I'll get to the tasting notes in a moment.
I told 38 Degrees via Twitter that I was coming in, and I didn't really expect much other than "Hey 38rakia!" and that would've been cool. What really seriously made my night and was probably one of the greatest moments in my life was that the owner himself--Clay (of the Clay's Flight) actually came *back in* after leaving and came and found me at our table. We shook hands and talked a bit. That in itself made the night really special, my friends all went, "That was really cool." I'd really like to thank Clay for taking the time to meet me, it really made my night.
The atmosphere of the bar is homey feeling, we spent time looking at the art on the walls and commenting on a few pieces. All in all we had a really good time, and we are going back repeatedly.
Now, I'm just going to list all the tasters we had--along with my notes and even some notes a friend texted me later. I'm not a beer connoisseur, I've only been in the craft bar scene for 2 years and my tastes are not refined enough to be considered "expert opinion". Even though one of my friends would like to think I am (thanks Chris).
-Pink Boots By Drakes, a Saison
Now my ideal Saison is a light, sweet, spicy smelling beer. But Drakes was a little different. It was a dark amber color and a little heavier than what I like, but it was really good (I drank a little IPA so I couldn't really get a good taste on it) and I would totally drink it again.
-Marin's Witty Monk, I'm guessing a witbeer...
It had a really pleasant wheat smell, it was a pale straw color and it was creamy and very light. It went down really well and at the end had a few floral notes (to me and another friend, the boys--not so much). Definitely a great summer beer, easy drink-ability.
-Old Stock, Northcoast
I'm guessing this beer is a seasonal release, because it wasn't one I had ever seen before and I've been to the Northcoast brewery. It's barrel aged, well it tastes Bourbon Barrel aged. I recognize the pineapple taste from when my cousin Chip barrel aged some of his beer, I mean it tasted exactly like Chip's only less heavy. It smells a little pineappley too, if you can, snap this one up quick. Because it's so good.
-Fireworks, Craftsman, a Saison
For a Saison it smelled piney, had a dark reddish amber color. It didn't impress me much, I think because I'm used to a saison being sweeter whereas this was a little sour. I suppose it could've grown on me, but I wasn't that thrilled with it.
-Stone's Vertical Epic, Seasonal Release
This had cinnamon and Anaheim chillies in it. Now, I've had a chili beer before, from 6 Rivers in McKinnleyville (which I cannot stand that chili beer of theirs because of how badly it burns your mouth. Beer + Spicy Peppers? No...) but unlike the chili beer I've had before--this was pretty good. It tastes like an IPA, it's got mild hoppy notes (piney ones rather than grassy ones). You can smell and taste the chilies, but no cinnamon anywhere. It's pretty good, but it's not up my alley.
-Paolo Santo, Dogfish Head, STOUT
It smells of alcohol on first sniff. It's a dark black, which denotes it being a stout. Second sniff, you'll get dark chocolate and coffee (my guy friends got "Vodka" and that was really it). Upon first taste, it's definitely alcohol laden tasting. To the point where you feel like you're drinking hard booze and not a beer. But if you let it warm up a bit, and go in for a second try--you'll just find dark chocolate and coffee with a sort of peaty finish. Looks and first tastes are deceiving...
-Space Goat, Big Sky Brewing, IPA (with Galaxy Hops)
It's definitely an IPA, you'll smell piney notes--the only way I describe it is by saying "This reminds me of Christmas". And actually the taste itself was piney and "christmasy"--I know, not very descriptive. A friend who had Clay's sampler asked me if the pine notes in IPA were because they barrel aged it in pine barrels--which led to a discussion on what IPA stands for and the different notes I've found. I'm not a big IPA person, but Space Goat appeals to me because it's not super in your face with the hops. Excellent choice Chris, Andre, and Clay.
-Fathom, Ballast Point
It smells like sweaty gym socks, which if I can find my beer bible I could tell you what and why that is, maybe the next blog. I gotta do homework. Anyways, Fathom's initial smell might put you off but it's light and not over hoppy. Again, another beer I would gladly consume regularly. It's good. Especially out of a tap.
-Damnation, Russian River Brewing, Belgian Strong Ale
It's got a sweet smell that I couldn't really place in my brain, like Marin's Monk, it's a light straw color. It's sweet and smooth. This Belgian Strong Ale is now a personal favorite. Unlike Gulden Draak it wasn't a sneaky ass kicker. Amazing.
-Scarface, Speakeasy Brewing, Imperial Stout
This reminds me a bit of Old Rasputin. At first it tasted rather tar like and I was put off by it. However the second go around on it, it smells like a mocha. It's black and retains a nice head. Strong notes of dark chocolate and coffee put in a way that makes you feel like you want a piece of cake to go with it. Great dessert beer. A thousand times yes. It's one of the few beers I've found that tastes the way it smells.
-Red Rye, Golden Road Brewing, (LOCAL!)
Golden Road is a brewery owned by Tony Yanow, who may sound familiar because he is. Tony owns Tony's Darts Away and Mohawk Bend and just recently opened Golden Road in Atwater. This is the first Golden Road beer I've had, and I have to say, I am seriously impressed with the imagination on this Rye Beer. I've seen a few reviews that aren't impressed with this beer--and how wrong they are. It reminded me of a Rye IPA I tried recently, it kind of smells like cheese upon first sniff. It's red amber color and the rye is not off putting. It goes down smooth and leaves you feeling like you need a pint of it.
-Hanger 24 Chocolate Porter
There was some confusion at our table with this beer, since it was ordered with Serpent Stout. I ended up pointing out that the stout had to be the darker one and the lighter hued one smelled more like chocolate than the darker one. It's a light brown color, it smells of chocolate and vanilla. It's more like eating a cocoa puffs than drinking a beer. Again, this would be a great dessert beer--put it in some vanilla ice cream. You got yourself a great dessert (Heffeweizen and Vanilla don't mix btw, I've done that).
-Serpent Stout, Lost Abbey
This one is a potent brew, on first sniff it smells like tar. But don't let that daunt you. It presents a very nice mixture of coffee and dark chocolate. Not nearly as chocolately as Hanger 24's porter, but a close second.
-Rhinoceros, Telegraph Brewing Co
This one also tastes like a cask aged beer, it's pineappley with a creamy texture as you drink. It's a nice light amber color. There's notes of banana when it warms up. Definitely have to get this one again.
-Jubilee, Eagle Rock Brewing (LOCAL!)
Eagle Rock is just a stone's throw from Glendale, CA. I've had a lot of their beers before and always been impressed. Jubilee is not different. This one reminds me of Deschutes "The Dissident" which is one of my all time favorite beers (part of me died when my cousin told me it only comes out every 4 years). It's red ale looking, smells a little smokey and tasted like cherries at the end. Which is probably why it reminds me so much of my favorite beer. In the beginning it's sort of reminiscent of red wine. This is now my Dissident replacement, I just hope Eagle Rock doesn't release this every four years.
-Thrill, Beachwood BBQ (Long Beach, LOCAL)
Again, a close to home brewery. Have to make a special trip down there sometime. It's got a light gold color and kept it's head for at least 10 minutes after pour. It's piney tasting and what I call a "Christmasy" beer.
-Oaked Cismotane Aged Double Coulter IPA
Umami, or what I call "Meaty". It's like a marinade when you smell it. A little meaty, a little vinegary. Pineapple notes, spicy herbal taste. Extremely, Extremely GOOD. You have to have a taste of this to really appreciate barrel aged beer.
-Solidarity, Eagle Rock
I've had this before at Tony's Darts Away but I didn't take notes, their Manifesto is super amazing too. Solidarity is a vanilla heavy beer, but again it's a perfect dessert beer. The smell, taste, and the aftertaste are all lightly vanilla. It's a creamy beer. Reminds one of a vanilla latte. Girls will love this beer, especially if you love vanilla.
This blog is a huge one and I apologize for it's length. 38 Degrees brought some great new beers to the table and I'm really impressed with the food as well. Granted I stole a friend's fries, but that Garlic Aioli they use is to die for. I'm a ranch person myself, but when all the fries were gone, we had half of mind to lick the little bowl of aioli clean. Now, by the time we went to order food the kitchen had closed but that meant a trip to Inn N Out.
38 degrees is the place to go if you really want to try different beers or find rarities. A special thanks to Clay for making a special trip to come find me, we all had a wonderful time and I look forward to going to Alhambra more often. If you live in LA and you have time and you want to expand your tastes, look no further. Also, take your time with the 4 page beer menu. If you prefer taps, stick to the first two pages. If you want bottles, believe me, you will find them. 38 degrees was like dying and going to Beervana.
Now next weekend, I think I may go to Verdugo Bar with a friend of mine. They have Delirium Tremens on tap, as well as Saison De Lente (a personal favorite of mine).
If you would like to recommend a place, by all means, send me a PM on Twitter or post a comment. If you have a beer you'd like to recommend, I'd love to try it.
Have a good weekend Ya'll. Look for the next blog soon.
Beer
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Long over due post
It's been nearly a year since I updated this blog.
For Christmas my Pops got me in the holiday spirit by purchasing a significant gift card from Bevmo which was used almost immediately.He also gave me a rather large book called "Tasting Beer" by Randy Mosher. Which I've been flipping through from time to time. I call it my "beer drinking bible". If you really want to get into craft beer, buy this book. It's about 20.00 USD but seriously a great read.
I purchased Saison De Lente (which was organic), Kwak (recommended by a friend), Gulden Draak (itty bitty bottle but it packs some serious taste and alcohol content), and more recently a beer by the name of "Terrible".
Now unfortunately I took no tasting notes when drinking these, so I'm going off memory. As always I'll allow you, the reader to decide for yourself.
The Organic Saison I bought was limited edition at Bevmo. Not sure where else one could find it. For a saison it was sweet, for me a saison is perfect because it reminds me of Champange. At Tony's Darts Away they have 2 Saison's on tap. Red Barn, which embodied what a Saison should be. Light colored, sweet, spicy. Excellent. And High Five, which while not a particular favorite of mine, is worth a try. The Saison De Lente Organic reminded me very much of Red Barn. Sweet, with herbal and spice notes. I even had my roommate (a strict Jack Daniel's man) try it, he said "This is American Beer?"
Yes, in America we can actually make amazing beer.
Kwak was an excellent beer. Oh it's pricey at Bevmo, and comes in a rather large bottle with a cork. It's a meaty tasting beer. What I mean by "meaty" is that when you drink it, you immediately want a steak to go with it. It's not heavy like a stout but it does have a weight to it. It's a little salty but totally worth the buy.
Gulden Draak is a Belgian Strong Dark Ale. True to it's name this beer was also a little Meaty in the mouth but I found after drinking it that I was getting a buzz! I don't recall the percentage but it was much higher than Kwak's 8 percent. It came in a tiny bottle but don't let that fool you. This beer is STRONG. Which isn't bad for it's taste, which was a rich and bold powerful that lasted more than a few moments on the tongue. Be sure you eat something before this beer. It's also VERY expensive for how itty bitty the bottle is. I got it for about 15 dollars. I saw a gift pack with 2 bottles and 2 glasses for 60.00. Oh. My. God.
Now Terrible was something I spotted last night. It's got a pretty plain brown bottle with silver writing. You can find this one at the La Crescenta Ralphs. It calls itself a "Dark Ale on Lees". I have no idea what On Lees means, but it's something good based off how this beer was. Brewed by Unibroue and out of Chambly, Quebec, Canada. It touts a 10.5% ABV. This isn't a heavy hitter like Gulden Draak but it is a thicker more robust beer. It's meaty, and I began to crave a steak (medium rare) to go with it. It's a little salty too, but it goes so well with all the flavor in this beer that you'll wonder why it's called "Terrible" when it should be labeled "Not Terrible". It's a stronger beer and I'm a Saison, Witbeer, and Rye IPA kind of girl--it's actuallly a lot like Chimay Red Label. For 10.99 (Ralphs discount = 8.99) this is one of those more "expensive" beers worth drinking. Eat a steak while you drink it, you'll feel like royalty.
Now, I've been frequenting craft beer bars (and even applying for jobs at them) and I have to say if you live in the L.A area or plan to visit...
Wurstkuche is a real "hipster" (trendy people who are only trendy because they liked a place, band, whatever first and now it's "overrated". They carry big cameras and photograph everything.) Location in the heart of Little Toyko. Now I applied and unfortunately didn't get the position, but hey, with great beer comes great responsibility. They have a variety of beer and sausages (and soda for you non drinkers). I enjoyed a Rattlesnake and Alligator sausage with roasted red peppers with a beer I can't recall. It's bench seating, huge. If you don't want to sit on benches, you can sit in a booth. It's beer selection is most of it's menu, and the menu is huge. It's cafeteria style, so you order at the counter and take a number. They will grab your drink order in line though, and it's ALWAYS packed. They have mostly European Beers, for you ladies they have a Raspberry Lambic. It's pricey but worth a visit.
Tony's Darts Away...I love this little bar. They have a patio in the front now and a brunch special. Vegan and non Vegan food. Did I mention they had ON TAP the legendary "Victory At Sea" by Ballast Point. I've been looking for that beer for 2 years. I've been in almost every night and the beer selection always rotates. The owner also opened Mohawk Bend in Echo Park (Which recently made a list of the Top 10 Beer Bars) and Golden Road Brewing in Atwater Village. Currently Tony's offers a Witbeer from Eagle Rock Brewing that is astounding. You can always taste test a beer you see as well, so you don't order something you don't like the taste of. They always have a large selection of beers. Now, some beers come in what my cousin called "true pints" and others in goblets, snifters, etc. They are not trying to cheat you by doing this. There are certain glasses for certain beers. Now a "true pint" of something like North Coast's Rasputin will be harder to enjoy because of 1. It's crazy alcohol content and 2.It's a Stout, it takes forever to pour. So don't feel like just because some beers come in Pints and others don't. Truth is, if you really love the beer, you can always go to it's brewery and buy a growler of it.
This Friday I'll be heading to 38 Degrees in Alhambra (they follow me on Twitter and it makes me happy inside) to check out the place. There will be a full review. Tasting notes and all!
If you live in California or elsewhere and you have a beer you want reviewed, leave a comment. You can also follow me on Twitter if you so desire for links to this blog and retweets from some local breweries. Or if you have a good local brew pub or whatever you would like a review on, leave a comment or hit me up on Twitter.
Yes, the blog is back, and I'll try to be good about posting every time I get a new beer or a review.
Follow me on Twitter:
@38rakia
Hoppy Hump Day
For Christmas my Pops got me in the holiday spirit by purchasing a significant gift card from Bevmo which was used almost immediately.He also gave me a rather large book called "Tasting Beer" by Randy Mosher. Which I've been flipping through from time to time. I call it my "beer drinking bible". If you really want to get into craft beer, buy this book. It's about 20.00 USD but seriously a great read.
I purchased Saison De Lente (which was organic), Kwak (recommended by a friend), Gulden Draak (itty bitty bottle but it packs some serious taste and alcohol content), and more recently a beer by the name of "Terrible".
Now unfortunately I took no tasting notes when drinking these, so I'm going off memory. As always I'll allow you, the reader to decide for yourself.
The Organic Saison I bought was limited edition at Bevmo. Not sure where else one could find it. For a saison it was sweet, for me a saison is perfect because it reminds me of Champange. At Tony's Darts Away they have 2 Saison's on tap. Red Barn, which embodied what a Saison should be. Light colored, sweet, spicy. Excellent. And High Five, which while not a particular favorite of mine, is worth a try. The Saison De Lente Organic reminded me very much of Red Barn. Sweet, with herbal and spice notes. I even had my roommate (a strict Jack Daniel's man) try it, he said "This is American Beer?"
Yes, in America we can actually make amazing beer.
Kwak was an excellent beer. Oh it's pricey at Bevmo, and comes in a rather large bottle with a cork. It's a meaty tasting beer. What I mean by "meaty" is that when you drink it, you immediately want a steak to go with it. It's not heavy like a stout but it does have a weight to it. It's a little salty but totally worth the buy.
Gulden Draak is a Belgian Strong Dark Ale. True to it's name this beer was also a little Meaty in the mouth but I found after drinking it that I was getting a buzz! I don't recall the percentage but it was much higher than Kwak's 8 percent. It came in a tiny bottle but don't let that fool you. This beer is STRONG. Which isn't bad for it's taste, which was a rich and bold powerful that lasted more than a few moments on the tongue. Be sure you eat something before this beer. It's also VERY expensive for how itty bitty the bottle is. I got it for about 15 dollars. I saw a gift pack with 2 bottles and 2 glasses for 60.00. Oh. My. God.
Now Terrible was something I spotted last night. It's got a pretty plain brown bottle with silver writing. You can find this one at the La Crescenta Ralphs. It calls itself a "Dark Ale on Lees". I have no idea what On Lees means, but it's something good based off how this beer was. Brewed by Unibroue and out of Chambly, Quebec, Canada. It touts a 10.5% ABV. This isn't a heavy hitter like Gulden Draak but it is a thicker more robust beer. It's meaty, and I began to crave a steak (medium rare) to go with it. It's a little salty too, but it goes so well with all the flavor in this beer that you'll wonder why it's called "Terrible" when it should be labeled "Not Terrible". It's a stronger beer and I'm a Saison, Witbeer, and Rye IPA kind of girl--it's actuallly a lot like Chimay Red Label. For 10.99 (Ralphs discount = 8.99) this is one of those more "expensive" beers worth drinking. Eat a steak while you drink it, you'll feel like royalty.
Now, I've been frequenting craft beer bars (and even applying for jobs at them) and I have to say if you live in the L.A area or plan to visit...
Wurstkuche is a real "hipster" (trendy people who are only trendy because they liked a place, band, whatever first and now it's "overrated". They carry big cameras and photograph everything.) Location in the heart of Little Toyko. Now I applied and unfortunately didn't get the position, but hey, with great beer comes great responsibility. They have a variety of beer and sausages (and soda for you non drinkers). I enjoyed a Rattlesnake and Alligator sausage with roasted red peppers with a beer I can't recall. It's bench seating, huge. If you don't want to sit on benches, you can sit in a booth. It's beer selection is most of it's menu, and the menu is huge. It's cafeteria style, so you order at the counter and take a number. They will grab your drink order in line though, and it's ALWAYS packed. They have mostly European Beers, for you ladies they have a Raspberry Lambic. It's pricey but worth a visit.
Tony's Darts Away...I love this little bar. They have a patio in the front now and a brunch special. Vegan and non Vegan food. Did I mention they had ON TAP the legendary "Victory At Sea" by Ballast Point. I've been looking for that beer for 2 years. I've been in almost every night and the beer selection always rotates. The owner also opened Mohawk Bend in Echo Park (Which recently made a list of the Top 10 Beer Bars) and Golden Road Brewing in Atwater Village. Currently Tony's offers a Witbeer from Eagle Rock Brewing that is astounding. You can always taste test a beer you see as well, so you don't order something you don't like the taste of. They always have a large selection of beers. Now, some beers come in what my cousin called "true pints" and others in goblets, snifters, etc. They are not trying to cheat you by doing this. There are certain glasses for certain beers. Now a "true pint" of something like North Coast's Rasputin will be harder to enjoy because of 1. It's crazy alcohol content and 2.It's a Stout, it takes forever to pour. So don't feel like just because some beers come in Pints and others don't. Truth is, if you really love the beer, you can always go to it's brewery and buy a growler of it.
This Friday I'll be heading to 38 Degrees in Alhambra (they follow me on Twitter and it makes me happy inside) to check out the place. There will be a full review. Tasting notes and all!
If you live in California or elsewhere and you have a beer you want reviewed, leave a comment. You can also follow me on Twitter if you so desire for links to this blog and retweets from some local breweries. Or if you have a good local brew pub or whatever you would like a review on, leave a comment or hit me up on Twitter.
Yes, the blog is back, and I'll try to be good about posting every time I get a new beer or a review.
Follow me on Twitter:
@38rakia
Hoppy Hump Day
Friday, June 10, 2011
Fearless, Family, and Beer Waffles
Well, as some of you might know, I went on a trip to Oregon to visit the family briefly while my grandmother still has a bit of life left in her. Now in Oregon, I got a little carried away with my beer drinking. No, there was no overconsumption and consequently vomiting as a result—however I did spend a lot of money on beer. Normally, I’m consuming a pint of different home brews—but I wasn’t quite as spoiled this time around. Which made me rely on what the grocery store had to offer as opposed to excellent home made beer, and I won’t lie and say that I don’t like homebrewed beer better than everything else. My cousin’s husband’s beer sets the bar as far as my tastes are concerned, there’s nothing that could quite beat it…except for maybe the Dissident.
Haggen’s, the local “Ralphs” or “Vons” of Clackmas Oregon, has an enormous selection of beers for honestly, super ridiculous prices. I bought a Moonshine looking jug of Dead Guy Ale (consequently for a friend of mine who had a birthday while I was gone and enjoys being a part of “Rogue Nation”) for cheaper than a six pack of the same stuff. I bought 6 different beers so I could get a 10% discount, much like the wine/hard alcohol discounts they give out at Ralphs and such anyway. Plus Skull Splitter was supposed to be a 5 dollar beer, because it wouldn’t ring right, I got it for 2 bucks or so—and that’s TAX FREE I might add. All in all my trip to Haggan to buy 1 giant thing of Rogue, Naz Dravei, Pale horse, Boss Beer, Skull Splitter, and Celebrator only cost me about…20 bucks or so. No sales tax, which makes Oregon a wonderful state. The other great thing about Oregon is the "Northwest Brewery News" paper that they put out every couple months. In September there's going to be a "Biketobeerfest" in Portland, which touts itself as the World's Largest Bike in Beerfestival. Oh yeah, I will be there. In July, there's the Oregon Brewers Fest, in Tom MacCall waterfront park. I expect to make it to that too, but who knows.
Now I did also manage to visit a brewery while I was out there called “Fearless” brewing where my cousin’s husband had entered a contest and was consequently judging the affair as well. I’ve learned that I’m not quite into IPA anymore, although perhaps it was just their particular IPA that I didn’t fancy. However, their Scottish Ale is to die for. If you go, don’t even drink a sampler; don’t even look at the menu. Order the Beer Battered Onion Rings and a Pint of the Scottish Ale. Now my cousin-in-law did not win anything, well unless you count the raffle, which was basically won by the guys who bought half the roll of tickets. He walked away with some malt, hops, glasses, ah yes---and a giant Miller Lite poster. Yes, I shit you not, they were raffling off that at a Homebrew competition. I have photographic evidence.
Now my cousin-in-law’s beer was placed into a category that it probably shouldn’t have been in, since it received no awards or special mention. My father advised him to put more beer in more categories and to enter more contests. Which, let me tell you something about this homebrewer who’s married to my lovely cousin. He brews the greatest and finest beer, I think, than half the big “microbreweries” I’ve tried. When I went on my road trip, our standards of what beer should be were set by what this man had given to myself and my cousin from Ireland. We think his beer is great, we like it a lot, and I think he should keg it for me so I have a personal stash (hint hint wink wink).
The beer I bought at Haggen was pretty decent, I’ll give you some notes on what I selected and I recommend you try them.
Celebrator: Came with a cute little charm on it, import beer, Bavarian it tastes salty sweet--my aunt mentioned it had an aftertaste of Umami, I thought it was soy saucey. Ayinger Brewery double boch. It smelled sort of salty and was a dark nutty brown. 6.7% ABV. I'd drink it again. From Germany.
Pale Horse Export Stout:
SUPER BLACK. Thick, syrupy, smokey, comparable to Old Rasputin Stout. Salty scent. Salty on the tongue, good head retention, not strong or bitter like other stouts. Probably better a little bit warmer. From Oregon.
Naz Dravei: Czech style Pilsner with a golden color and a wheaty smell. Pilsner taste comes through strong but leaves a mild aftertaste. Makes a great summer thirst quenching beer! From Oregon.
Boss Beer: Wheaty tasting, bitter aftertaste. Crisp. Golden yellow. Tastes similar to Baltika no. 9 (see Baltika's review) but without the "shitty aftertaste". From Poland. Also a Pilsner.
Skull Splitter: Amber color. Figgy smelling, spicy, warm, with a strong thick taste that's rough--similar to a peaty scotch. Taste goes into velvet smooth finish and lingers on the tongue. From Orkney Islands.
Now after I returned home from my adventures in Oregon, I bought some very fancy beer. Le Merle is a Saison put out by Northcoast brewing, which while not being one of my favorites--when mixed with waffle batter, honey, and vanilla...makes damn good waffles. I also bought something I'd never seen or heard before, but apparently is damn hard to obtain (oops) called Cuvee Van De Keizer Blauw...which consequently...I didn't drink but added to waffles...
Cuvee De Keizer is an import, while also extremely expensive (12 bucks a bottle anyone?) and having a whooping 11% ABV. I have no idea what it tasted like, just that it made damn good waffles too.
Basically, take ready made waffle mix, sub beer (use about 12 ounces of beer or 1 bottle) for milk/water. Add 2 tablespoons honey and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Pam up your waffle maker and make those bitches. I stole the recipe off the internet from some cooking thing, although they recommended using self rising flour and such. It's a 5 star rated deal, so I figured I'd print it out. The link to it is at the bottom of this page.
Now I don't know when I'll find time to write again, considering I have a new potential business starting up soon, and no it has nothing to do with beer. Again people, if you recommend a product to me via email or comment. I will buy it and I will try it.
Have fun makin those beer Waffles...
Beer Batter Waffle!
Haggen’s, the local “Ralphs” or “Vons” of Clackmas Oregon, has an enormous selection of beers for honestly, super ridiculous prices. I bought a Moonshine looking jug of Dead Guy Ale (consequently for a friend of mine who had a birthday while I was gone and enjoys being a part of “Rogue Nation”) for cheaper than a six pack of the same stuff. I bought 6 different beers so I could get a 10% discount, much like the wine/hard alcohol discounts they give out at Ralphs and such anyway. Plus Skull Splitter was supposed to be a 5 dollar beer, because it wouldn’t ring right, I got it for 2 bucks or so—and that’s TAX FREE I might add. All in all my trip to Haggan to buy 1 giant thing of Rogue, Naz Dravei, Pale horse, Boss Beer, Skull Splitter, and Celebrator only cost me about…20 bucks or so. No sales tax, which makes Oregon a wonderful state. The other great thing about Oregon is the "Northwest Brewery News" paper that they put out every couple months. In September there's going to be a "Biketobeerfest" in Portland, which touts itself as the World's Largest Bike in Beerfestival. Oh yeah, I will be there. In July, there's the Oregon Brewers Fest, in Tom MacCall waterfront park. I expect to make it to that too, but who knows.
Now I did also manage to visit a brewery while I was out there called “Fearless” brewing where my cousin’s husband had entered a contest and was consequently judging the affair as well. I’ve learned that I’m not quite into IPA anymore, although perhaps it was just their particular IPA that I didn’t fancy. However, their Scottish Ale is to die for. If you go, don’t even drink a sampler; don’t even look at the menu. Order the Beer Battered Onion Rings and a Pint of the Scottish Ale. Now my cousin-in-law did not win anything, well unless you count the raffle, which was basically won by the guys who bought half the roll of tickets. He walked away with some malt, hops, glasses, ah yes---and a giant Miller Lite poster. Yes, I shit you not, they were raffling off that at a Homebrew competition. I have photographic evidence.
Now my cousin-in-law’s beer was placed into a category that it probably shouldn’t have been in, since it received no awards or special mention. My father advised him to put more beer in more categories and to enter more contests. Which, let me tell you something about this homebrewer who’s married to my lovely cousin. He brews the greatest and finest beer, I think, than half the big “microbreweries” I’ve tried. When I went on my road trip, our standards of what beer should be were set by what this man had given to myself and my cousin from Ireland. We think his beer is great, we like it a lot, and I think he should keg it for me so I have a personal stash (hint hint wink wink).
The beer I bought at Haggen was pretty decent, I’ll give you some notes on what I selected and I recommend you try them.
Celebrator: Came with a cute little charm on it, import beer, Bavarian it tastes salty sweet--my aunt mentioned it had an aftertaste of Umami, I thought it was soy saucey. Ayinger Brewery double boch. It smelled sort of salty and was a dark nutty brown. 6.7% ABV. I'd drink it again. From Germany.
Pale Horse Export Stout:
SUPER BLACK. Thick, syrupy, smokey, comparable to Old Rasputin Stout. Salty scent. Salty on the tongue, good head retention, not strong or bitter like other stouts. Probably better a little bit warmer. From Oregon.
Naz Dravei: Czech style Pilsner with a golden color and a wheaty smell. Pilsner taste comes through strong but leaves a mild aftertaste. Makes a great summer thirst quenching beer! From Oregon.
Boss Beer: Wheaty tasting, bitter aftertaste. Crisp. Golden yellow. Tastes similar to Baltika no. 9 (see Baltika's review) but without the "shitty aftertaste". From Poland. Also a Pilsner.
Skull Splitter: Amber color. Figgy smelling, spicy, warm, with a strong thick taste that's rough--similar to a peaty scotch. Taste goes into velvet smooth finish and lingers on the tongue. From Orkney Islands.
Now after I returned home from my adventures in Oregon, I bought some very fancy beer. Le Merle is a Saison put out by Northcoast brewing, which while not being one of my favorites--when mixed with waffle batter, honey, and vanilla...makes damn good waffles. I also bought something I'd never seen or heard before, but apparently is damn hard to obtain (oops) called Cuvee Van De Keizer Blauw...which consequently...I didn't drink but added to waffles...
Cuvee De Keizer is an import, while also extremely expensive (12 bucks a bottle anyone?) and having a whooping 11% ABV. I have no idea what it tasted like, just that it made damn good waffles too.
Basically, take ready made waffle mix, sub beer (use about 12 ounces of beer or 1 bottle) for milk/water. Add 2 tablespoons honey and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Pam up your waffle maker and make those bitches. I stole the recipe off the internet from some cooking thing, although they recommended using self rising flour and such. It's a 5 star rated deal, so I figured I'd print it out. The link to it is at the bottom of this page.
Now I don't know when I'll find time to write again, considering I have a new potential business starting up soon, and no it has nothing to do with beer. Again people, if you recommend a product to me via email or comment. I will buy it and I will try it.
Have fun makin those beer Waffles...
Beer Batter Waffle!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
If you're reading this, you've survived the Apocalpyse.
Okay!
So I'm finally done working this big crazy catering gig that's had me not writing for ya'll in about a month.
What kind of beer have I been drinking? Oh, I've sunk pretty low. I know I've said I despise Bud light with every fiber of my being (and I do) but that's all that some of my coworkers drink. Yeah. Rather than being an ungracious guest, I reluctantly decided that Bud light with lime on Cinco De Mayo was probably a decent choice. Might as well, they were out of Dos XX's (bastards) and Corona was $$$ for Corona.
Sure, I've revisited old favorites--like Longboarder and Pyramid. I even got to try a Doghead! Not that I can remember what it tastes like.
Today, I finally visited a great landmark. The Original Barney's Beanary. If you want to be blown the hell away, you need to go to it. Probably at least over 50 different beers.
I had a Delirium to start off (because it's amazing) and then--I finished off a bowl of Texas style chili with a "Monty Python's Holy Grail Ale". Which, holy crap, where can I buy Holy Grail Ale?
Crisp, light, aley...burned using condemned witches...How could you possibly go wrong?!
Seriously though, The Original Barney's has quite the selection on tap. Like The Snug in Noho, they have Chimay on tap. Which yes, Chimay is god damn expensive and yes, it's good. Strongbow, Mythos (a greek beer, yay!), Monty, Racer 5, etc etc.
What are you sitting behind your screen for? Get up, and go drive to the Original Barneys! Or better yet, buy a plane ticket and come visit America.
Speaking of visiting, I'll be visiting Oregon soon. Which means homemade beer, great craft beer, and potentially the Oregon Beer Fest. Oh yeah. You know I'm comin back from that vacation a little chubbier. Liver's gotta earn it's place!
Now I bought this stuff called...Kotayk. Which is Armenian. Now, I have 0 idea whether this tastes like crap or not, but we're about to find out. Why? Because I'm writing this live--because I love you that much.
Which the perfect snacky food to go with this beer (which smells like Miller Highlife for whatever reason)...try this...
Russian/Moscow style ham
Bulgarian Feta
Wrap those two together....oh man...I love you Russia and Bulgaria.
Anyways the beer!
It tastes like...
Nothing...
It's not very hoppy or pilsner like. It psyches you out. It starts off wanting to be a nice bodied Pilsner and you think, how nice--I could get used to this...and then the taste just--poof, away. Maybe if you're a girly beer drinker this might be for you. I mean, it tastes like beer...smells like beer...
But is it REALLY beer?
I'm sorry but no.
I'd categorize this as "Budweiser" worthy, i.e...it's pretty crappy and not very fit for human consumption. I would give this beer another chance but...after half a glass...I'm still not impressed. The aftertaste is kind of like...the smell of wet clothing only in taste form.
Kotayk...sorry but you could be so much better.
Anyways, all of you Californians need to go to Barney's Beanary. You don't know what you're missing.
Anyways Comrades...
I'm glad we're all still here. We'll get judged another day.
Next week...
Suggest something.
Otherwise it'll be whatever I decide to buy.
So I'm finally done working this big crazy catering gig that's had me not writing for ya'll in about a month.
What kind of beer have I been drinking? Oh, I've sunk pretty low. I know I've said I despise Bud light with every fiber of my being (and I do) but that's all that some of my coworkers drink. Yeah. Rather than being an ungracious guest, I reluctantly decided that Bud light with lime on Cinco De Mayo was probably a decent choice. Might as well, they were out of Dos XX's (bastards) and Corona was $$$ for Corona.
Sure, I've revisited old favorites--like Longboarder and Pyramid. I even got to try a Doghead! Not that I can remember what it tastes like.
Today, I finally visited a great landmark. The Original Barney's Beanary. If you want to be blown the hell away, you need to go to it. Probably at least over 50 different beers.
I had a Delirium to start off (because it's amazing) and then--I finished off a bowl of Texas style chili with a "Monty Python's Holy Grail Ale". Which, holy crap, where can I buy Holy Grail Ale?
Crisp, light, aley...burned using condemned witches...How could you possibly go wrong?!
Seriously though, The Original Barney's has quite the selection on tap. Like The Snug in Noho, they have Chimay on tap. Which yes, Chimay is god damn expensive and yes, it's good. Strongbow, Mythos (a greek beer, yay!), Monty, Racer 5, etc etc.
What are you sitting behind your screen for? Get up, and go drive to the Original Barneys! Or better yet, buy a plane ticket and come visit America.
Speaking of visiting, I'll be visiting Oregon soon. Which means homemade beer, great craft beer, and potentially the Oregon Beer Fest. Oh yeah. You know I'm comin back from that vacation a little chubbier. Liver's gotta earn it's place!
Now I bought this stuff called...Kotayk. Which is Armenian. Now, I have 0 idea whether this tastes like crap or not, but we're about to find out. Why? Because I'm writing this live--because I love you that much.
Which the perfect snacky food to go with this beer (which smells like Miller Highlife for whatever reason)...try this...
Russian/Moscow style ham
Bulgarian Feta
Wrap those two together....oh man...I love you Russia and Bulgaria.
Anyways the beer!
It tastes like...
Nothing...
It's not very hoppy or pilsner like. It psyches you out. It starts off wanting to be a nice bodied Pilsner and you think, how nice--I could get used to this...and then the taste just--poof, away. Maybe if you're a girly beer drinker this might be for you. I mean, it tastes like beer...smells like beer...
But is it REALLY beer?
I'm sorry but no.
I'd categorize this as "Budweiser" worthy, i.e...it's pretty crappy and not very fit for human consumption. I would give this beer another chance but...after half a glass...I'm still not impressed. The aftertaste is kind of like...the smell of wet clothing only in taste form.
Kotayk...sorry but you could be so much better.
Anyways, all of you Californians need to go to Barney's Beanary. You don't know what you're missing.
Anyways Comrades...
I'm glad we're all still here. We'll get judged another day.
Next week...
Suggest something.
Otherwise it'll be whatever I decide to buy.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Pyramid Brewing Company
Salutations everyone!
Been working a catering job this week, I have to say, very amazing work those people do. Standing on their feet all the time and providing service with a smile, even if it tends to get insanely crazy. So that's again why this blog is so late. I'm working 7 DAYS, 55 hours (they keep increasing them, not that I mind, I enjoy money quite a bit, more money = more beer!) so--forgive me if I'm not "on top of it".
However, I did pick up a pack of Pyramid Brewing Co's selection. 4 bottles, 3 of each. We got a Heffe, an Apricot ale, an Imperial IPA, and another IPA. Right now my after-work beer of choice is a Sam Adam's Irish Red (left over from last week). Now, the Heffe is good--but not nearly as Heffe-y as it should be. Yes the color is right and yes it tastes like a Heffe but--it's not quite there. It's not as full bodied as I'd prefer, frankly, Spaten makes a much better Heffe and personally my favorite is the Old World Heffe. But, the Pyramid heffe is really not that amazing to be honest.
The Imperial IPA is super crazy hoppy. I'd say it would be a big hit for all of you TrIPA lovers. It's a lot like S.N's Torpedo. To the point where, you could pretty much relabel it and call it Torpedo. Not my favorite IPA but not half bad. Admittedly, it could be a little more unique like Pliny The Elder, which is an IPA I absolutely love.
The regular IPA, eh. Pretty much the same thing as a regular S.N. Only different label. Really nothing special, to be perfectly frank.
Now the Apricot beer is actually really really REALLY GOOD. It's a little cloudy, sort of like a Heffe should be. But it's not overly sweet or "Apricot-y". Admittedly, I have NO idea what Apricot should taste like--because I'm a carnivore and I don't mess around with that "vegetable" and "fruit" business unless it's in a smoothie or some shit. Admittedly, probably not the best diet, but whatever. It smells kinda peachy at first and yes, there's the dreaded "debris" at the bottom of the bottle. So if you're all freaked out over a little debris, then stay away from the beer. Personally, the fruity tasting beers that I like the best would have to be the Sam Adam's Cherry Wheat. I would totally buy a six pack of that over the Apricot whatever the hell I'm drinking.
Now, I randomly decided to get a Twitter Account, if you feel like following me--look for 38rakia. I may update about beer or some random goings on with my sad existence in catering. Tony's Darts Away has a twitter, Stone, etc etc. And we like beer. We like it a lot.
Next week I have 0 idea what I'm going to surprise you with, BUT, if YOU have a suggestion...Twitter my ass or comment.
If I'm not dead by Sunday, I'll see you all next week.
Been working a catering job this week, I have to say, very amazing work those people do. Standing on their feet all the time and providing service with a smile, even if it tends to get insanely crazy. So that's again why this blog is so late. I'm working 7 DAYS, 55 hours (they keep increasing them, not that I mind, I enjoy money quite a bit, more money = more beer!) so--forgive me if I'm not "on top of it".
However, I did pick up a pack of Pyramid Brewing Co's selection. 4 bottles, 3 of each. We got a Heffe, an Apricot ale, an Imperial IPA, and another IPA. Right now my after-work beer of choice is a Sam Adam's Irish Red (left over from last week). Now, the Heffe is good--but not nearly as Heffe-y as it should be. Yes the color is right and yes it tastes like a Heffe but--it's not quite there. It's not as full bodied as I'd prefer, frankly, Spaten makes a much better Heffe and personally my favorite is the Old World Heffe. But, the Pyramid heffe is really not that amazing to be honest.
The Imperial IPA is super crazy hoppy. I'd say it would be a big hit for all of you TrIPA lovers. It's a lot like S.N's Torpedo. To the point where, you could pretty much relabel it and call it Torpedo. Not my favorite IPA but not half bad. Admittedly, it could be a little more unique like Pliny The Elder, which is an IPA I absolutely love.
The regular IPA, eh. Pretty much the same thing as a regular S.N. Only different label. Really nothing special, to be perfectly frank.
Now the Apricot beer is actually really really REALLY GOOD. It's a little cloudy, sort of like a Heffe should be. But it's not overly sweet or "Apricot-y". Admittedly, I have NO idea what Apricot should taste like--because I'm a carnivore and I don't mess around with that "vegetable" and "fruit" business unless it's in a smoothie or some shit. Admittedly, probably not the best diet, but whatever. It smells kinda peachy at first and yes, there's the dreaded "debris" at the bottom of the bottle. So if you're all freaked out over a little debris, then stay away from the beer. Personally, the fruity tasting beers that I like the best would have to be the Sam Adam's Cherry Wheat. I would totally buy a six pack of that over the Apricot whatever the hell I'm drinking.
Now, I randomly decided to get a Twitter Account, if you feel like following me--look for 38rakia. I may update about beer or some random goings on with my sad existence in catering. Tony's Darts Away has a twitter, Stone, etc etc. And we like beer. We like it a lot.
Next week I have 0 idea what I'm going to surprise you with, BUT, if YOU have a suggestion...Twitter my ass or comment.
If I'm not dead by Sunday, I'll see you all next week.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Why Sports bars are sometimes better than beer tastings/events...
So, I meant to go to Tony's big colLAboration but...apparently...the line was 1, too big and 2, the chick running the "get in booth" really didn't give me a good reason to wait around in line anyway. Something about not having enough glasses and too many people inside. When buckets of people were streaming out. Note to self--buy the glass before you go, it'll save you time and it's the same price anyway. If Tony's does something like this again next year, or soon, I'll have to buy the glass before hand. Being impatient the way I am, I decided standing in line wasn't for me, especially when it was going like Noah's Ark. In 2's, and extremely slow.
So, I ended up going to Champs, my "Uncle's" bar instead. First pint was a Sam Adam's Noble Pils, which from the last blog you can tell I'm already a huge fan of Sam's stuff. It's a light crisp easy to drink beer with an amazing aftertaste. Now, the bar was crowded, and full of "older people" but hey, you meet some pretty awesome people at Sport's Bars like Champs. Sure there's the obvious...Sports, element to the whole thing but if you can get past not being a huge sports fan (if you are, then this "seedy lookin" joint is right up your ally) and just want to enjoy a pint or shoot some pool, then go. Now it's not nearly as crowded as Tony's was this weekend, bright side, they've just got a liquor license that allows them to sell harder stuff, so if you're into White Russians while watching Hockey--it's again, for your benefit. Now, the second and third beers, pints--were basically free. However one has to remember I've known the owners since I was just two gametes, and we're more or less family, even if a drunken cyclist or two would dispute that. Now, on tap they have a pretty good selection of stuff. I had the Noble Pils (which I added green dye to on St. Patricks Day), a Bass Ale, and a Widemer bro's Heffe. They got the usual suspects too; Budwiser, Coors, Stella, New Castle, Guinness, Blue Moon, and so on and so forth. And beer's are generally inexpensive at Champs.
Bright side about the whole day, running into the guys who were ahead of us in line for the ColLAb at Champs just as we came wandering out of the bar. Who called to me from their car, "remember us?", and eventually names were exchanged and I even showed off my fancy "Champs" t-shirt. Gotta sport my loyalty, no pun intended. Nice thing about Champs is now they're bringing back "Trivia Night", which I believe is Sports related (that would be a definitive "duh" but don't quote me on it). So, if you're super crazy into Sports or you plan on watching Comedy Central's Norm MacDonald Sports--erm...whatever or you're just an average joe who knows a bit, go on Wednesday night next week.
So the only new beer I tried this week was Bass Ale, which has a bit of a spicy finish, but I have to say--I do like it, a lot. It's different. And the Heffe, which you all should know by now, I would never turn down a good Heffe. And with it heating up, I urge you all to stock a Heffeweizen or two, it's a great little summer beer.
Until next week beer fans!
So, I ended up going to Champs, my "Uncle's" bar instead. First pint was a Sam Adam's Noble Pils, which from the last blog you can tell I'm already a huge fan of Sam's stuff. It's a light crisp easy to drink beer with an amazing aftertaste. Now, the bar was crowded, and full of "older people" but hey, you meet some pretty awesome people at Sport's Bars like Champs. Sure there's the obvious...Sports, element to the whole thing but if you can get past not being a huge sports fan (if you are, then this "seedy lookin" joint is right up your ally) and just want to enjoy a pint or shoot some pool, then go. Now it's not nearly as crowded as Tony's was this weekend, bright side, they've just got a liquor license that allows them to sell harder stuff, so if you're into White Russians while watching Hockey--it's again, for your benefit. Now, the second and third beers, pints--were basically free. However one has to remember I've known the owners since I was just two gametes, and we're more or less family, even if a drunken cyclist or two would dispute that. Now, on tap they have a pretty good selection of stuff. I had the Noble Pils (which I added green dye to on St. Patricks Day), a Bass Ale, and a Widemer bro's Heffe. They got the usual suspects too; Budwiser, Coors, Stella, New Castle, Guinness, Blue Moon, and so on and so forth. And beer's are generally inexpensive at Champs.
Bright side about the whole day, running into the guys who were ahead of us in line for the ColLAb at Champs just as we came wandering out of the bar. Who called to me from their car, "remember us?", and eventually names were exchanged and I even showed off my fancy "Champs" t-shirt. Gotta sport my loyalty, no pun intended. Nice thing about Champs is now they're bringing back "Trivia Night", which I believe is Sports related (that would be a definitive "duh" but don't quote me on it). So, if you're super crazy into Sports or you plan on watching Comedy Central's Norm MacDonald Sports--erm...whatever or you're just an average joe who knows a bit, go on Wednesday night next week.
So the only new beer I tried this week was Bass Ale, which has a bit of a spicy finish, but I have to say--I do like it, a lot. It's different. And the Heffe, which you all should know by now, I would never turn down a good Heffe. And with it heating up, I urge you all to stock a Heffeweizen or two, it's a great little summer beer.
Until next week beer fans!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Sam Adams; I promise you it's good
I've been lagging it lately and I have to apologize, normally I'm pretty good about posting every week but this last week was a little ridiculous. I got really lazy this week and even broke down and bought...I know, Sam Adams.
You'd think a mass produced beer that touts itself as "keeping to quality standards" would basically lie and give you the same mass produced water flavored beer as the rest of the massive American companies, right? Surprisingly, this bigger beer company has actually managed to put out very good beer in a very big way. You see the big boxes of the variety pack or the Boston Lager, and I've been bought the Cherry Wheat (seriously good), and you think, "Giant box = probably not good". But you'd be incredibly wrong.
I got my hands on a variety pack, which cost about the same as your regular box pack, except with a nice selection. It came with White Ale, Scotch ale, Irish Red, Boston Lager, Rye Beer, and the Noble Pils. Like I said in the previous blog, I really don't like Scotch Ale's but the rest of their selection is fantastic. The White Ale is crafted in the similar and familiar style of Belgian White Ale, think Blue Moon only with a spicier finish. Easy to go down, a perfect warm weather beer, and exceeding expectations as far as mass produced beers go. I'd drink Sam's White Ale over a Blue Moon. The Lager is incredible, I know they are very proud of it themselves but it is absolutely marvelous. Best Lager any big corporation produces in the US currently. I can't find any faults among their other beers either.
For a large scale American Beer company, it's certainly won my respect and admiration. In the event you go to a bar, they usually have Boston Lager on tap, or the Noble Pils. Which, if you're sick and tired of drinking the same old Miller or same old Bud, you need to switch, you'll thank me. As a matter of fact, you'll thank Sam Adams. Now, under the cap they put that they won an award in 2006 for best taste. I can say, unlike Baltika no. 9's bullshit "International Taste Award" that Sam Adams earned the right to put that on their bottle. Seriously, do yourself a favor and go pick one up. Your mind will be blown!
Now I can't say for sure what next weeks beers will be, it'll have to be a hunt and peck type of situation. I did see a bottle of "Fosters Special Ale" at Albertsons the other day that looked decent, and it is from Australia. Anyways folks, next week will have to be a surprise!
BEFORE I FORGET!
Next week! If you live in Southern California or will be visiting, Tony's Darts Away and friends is having a big beer garden shindig at the park. Your ticket is your glass, which is 10 bucks and you get to keep it to remember all the amazing beer you had.
ALL OF THE INFO, including directions is here...
Pop Up Beer Garden for Tony's
I will be attending! I can almost guarantee you it's going to be amazing. See you all next week.
You'd think a mass produced beer that touts itself as "keeping to quality standards" would basically lie and give you the same mass produced water flavored beer as the rest of the massive American companies, right? Surprisingly, this bigger beer company has actually managed to put out very good beer in a very big way. You see the big boxes of the variety pack or the Boston Lager, and I've been bought the Cherry Wheat (seriously good), and you think, "Giant box = probably not good". But you'd be incredibly wrong.
I got my hands on a variety pack, which cost about the same as your regular box pack, except with a nice selection. It came with White Ale, Scotch ale, Irish Red, Boston Lager, Rye Beer, and the Noble Pils. Like I said in the previous blog, I really don't like Scotch Ale's but the rest of their selection is fantastic. The White Ale is crafted in the similar and familiar style of Belgian White Ale, think Blue Moon only with a spicier finish. Easy to go down, a perfect warm weather beer, and exceeding expectations as far as mass produced beers go. I'd drink Sam's White Ale over a Blue Moon. The Lager is incredible, I know they are very proud of it themselves but it is absolutely marvelous. Best Lager any big corporation produces in the US currently. I can't find any faults among their other beers either.
For a large scale American Beer company, it's certainly won my respect and admiration. In the event you go to a bar, they usually have Boston Lager on tap, or the Noble Pils. Which, if you're sick and tired of drinking the same old Miller or same old Bud, you need to switch, you'll thank me. As a matter of fact, you'll thank Sam Adams. Now, under the cap they put that they won an award in 2006 for best taste. I can say, unlike Baltika no. 9's bullshit "International Taste Award" that Sam Adams earned the right to put that on their bottle. Seriously, do yourself a favor and go pick one up. Your mind will be blown!
Now I can't say for sure what next weeks beers will be, it'll have to be a hunt and peck type of situation. I did see a bottle of "Fosters Special Ale" at Albertsons the other day that looked decent, and it is from Australia. Anyways folks, next week will have to be a surprise!
BEFORE I FORGET!
Next week! If you live in Southern California or will be visiting, Tony's Darts Away and friends is having a big beer garden shindig at the park. Your ticket is your glass, which is 10 bucks and you get to keep it to remember all the amazing beer you had.
ALL OF THE INFO, including directions is here...
Pop Up Beer Garden for Tony's
I will be attending! I can almost guarantee you it's going to be amazing. See you all next week.
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