Last night good friend Uncle Crappy taught Craft Beer School at the Cabaret and joined myself and sickpuppy as alumni teachers for the event. I thought a nice change of pace would be to recap the beers when I attend these events and also give you an idea of what goes on.

Quick recap if you haven’t heard of Beer School before. It’s a 4 class schedule held in the fall and winter/spring at the Cabaret at Theater Square in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Sponsored by Vecenie Distributing Company, it’s $25 a ticket per class and you get 4 beers to sample plus a light fare. For the food, beer and education plus the company it really is a great deal. For more information

Last night we were treated to 4 pilsners that stretched the spectrum so instead of drawing them out over 4 weeks we’ll hit it all up in one shot. Shells Pils, Edelherb Pils, Heavy Seas Small Craft and Baltika 7

• Shells Pils – Smelled like Bud. tasted like Bud. I could barely stomach it. Thank God I was sharing this with Norm. Spoon rating: D
• Edelherb Pils – Very crisp and surprising. Mild bite from the hops. Finished a bit dry. Ideal summer session. Spoon rating: C+
• Heavy Seas Small Craft – This was an imperial pils that lived up to it’s name. To mock the Staples commercial “WOW! Thats a great beer!”. The alcohol was tasted slightly but quickly masked by the muscle punch of flavor of hops and slight sweetness. Incredible experience! Spoon rating: B+
• Baltika 7 – This was my shocker. I’ve had other Baltika’s and hated them but this was actually very pleasant. if you’re looking at a basic pils to get started into the style I would suggest this one. Very clean, crisp and not overwhelming flavor to get your hopes up on all beers in this style. Spoon rating: B-

Here are pics from WPXI’s “See & Be Seen – Covering the hottest people and events in and around Pittsburgh” from last night’s Beer School. I’m in one pic and sickpup is in 3. Good times

Slap me silly Sidney

Brasserie de Silly S.A. – Scotch Silly
brewery: Brasserie de Silly S.A. – silly-beer.com
style: Scottish Ale
abv: 8.0%
serving size: 750ml
glass used: snifter
price: $8.99

Overview
It offers a finely wooded nose hinting at hazelnut, and is therefore distinct from traditional British scotches. It has a more rounded taste letting a discreetly full-bodied bitterness come to the fore, and will naturally seduce you.

What I think
The only reason why I bought this beer was due to the name. Sometimes you gotta give in to curiosity. The pour was curious. The head appeared at first like it was sticking around for the long haul but much like the Ottawa Senators defense it vanished fast (haha couldn’t resist. GO PENS!). Unlike most scottish styles I’ve had in the past there was very little malt. Each drink was full of body and slightly bitter but I felt like I was missing something. the finish was too dry for my taste.

Would I buy this again? Eh maybe. Depends on what my other options are. Give it a shot and let me know what you think in the comments below.

Spoon’s rating: C+

I never had this style before and it was the last bottle on the shelf so I figured what the heck. A couple days before I opened this I started reading up on the whole Biere de Mars thing since I’ve seen it mentioned in a few articles about other breweries. You can also find this under a style called “Bière de Garde” which I haven’t seen much of in Western PA. For the sake of brevity you can read more about this style on the BJCP website.

Ommegang Biere de Mars – 2nd Batch March 2008
brewery: Ommegang – ommegang.com
style: Belgian Style Amber Ale / Bière de Garde
abv: 6.5%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $7.99

Overview
Ommegang Bière de Mars is a Belgian-style amber ale with a bit of magical space dust woven in - Brettanomyces bruxellensis, a wild-yeast used in the secondary fermentation. The Brett imparts added tartness, a bit of zing and some farmhouse funkiness. Also dry-hopped, this new ale continues our exploration of using Brett for secondary fermentation in limited-release beers.

Bière de Mars reveals a copper-amber body and a frothy white head that builds, clings and stays. Aromas are of malt and grain, clove, fruit and a bit of funk. Flavors are full-bodied with delicate malty sweetness, followed by spicy, peppery yeastiness and Brett-induced funk. Hopping is subtly bitter and aromatic, bumped up a bit by dry-hopping. The finish is dry and gently lingering. At 6.5% ABV, Bière de Mars offers easy quaffing; it also pairs nicely with spicy foods such as barbecue.

What I think
Would you just look at that pour. Sweet Jesus I had to take a step back and admire that head. Go ahead look at it. Now the aroma… a big whiff of stale malt. Maybe that was the bit of funk they mentioned? Honestly it wasn’t a turn off as it may have been about 3 years ago when I started getting seriously into craft beers. The taste was dry and I picked up a date and very yeasty flavor. This was absolutely a new one for me. The finish was slightly dryer and surprisingly welcoming to a person who normally views dry and boring.

I do have to say that I disagree with the Ommegang website when they say it would “pair nicely with spicy foods such as barbecue.” My bbq is never spicy. I’m a sweet wet mop kinda guy. However I would steam some spicy mussels in it or site down with some of Lushie’s pepper hummus.

Spoon’s rating: B+

Camera is back in a couple week with corrected white balance. woooooo!

Dark Horse – Scotty Karate Scotch Ale
brewery: Dark Horse – darkhorsebrewery.com
style: Scotch Ale
abv: 9.5%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $2.69

Overview
For those of you who don’t know who “Scotty Karate” is… He is a local one man band who plays an amazing slurry of honky tonk influenced, punk country songs. His voice is amazing as well as his high energy shows. (Check him out @www.scottykarate.com) So, we decided to make a beer and name it in his honor. This beer is a big, full bodied Scottish ale. It is 9.75% alc. but it is very smooth and balanced. Since Scotty is also very passionate about  beer I asked him to write a description for you, so from the man himself…

Aroma: Smells like A fresh caramel apple with a hint of cinnamon inside of cranberry shortbread. Or maybe fresh home made hard candy (from home economics class-7th grade).
Flavor: Tastes like a smokey chocolate chip cookie, wild roadside cherry-asparagus, woody, crispy leaf on a fall day. -SK

Silver medal winner 2007 Great American Beer Festival

What I think
The aroma for me was close to the commercial description with the presence of caramel noticeable as soon as I put the bottle down. The taste was pure malt with a twang of alcohol, a little nut and slight hops. The finish was smooth and a little on the bold side. It packed a wallop and felt great.

For the price, if you don’t pick up a bottle of this to try, you’re a fool. Even if you aren’t fond of the style you MUST give this a try. Besides at less than $3 you can’t lose. That’s 1/2 a pack of smokes and you will feel much better drinking one of these.

Spoon’s rating: A-

On my list of breweries I must visit, Avery is top 5. Part 3 in the Avery series of Holy Trinity of Ales. Lets continue…

Avery – Hog Heaven
brewery: Avery – averybrewing.com
style: Barleywine
abv: 9.2%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $7.99

Overview
This dangerously drinkable garnet beauty is a hop lover’s delight. The intense dry-hop nose and the alcohol content are perfectly balanced for a caramel candy-like malt finish. This is a serious beer for serious beer afficianados and it only gets better with age. Cellarable for 3 years.

What I think
Before I had this I was ready to fight to the death that barleywines should be banished to someplace evil… like a Flyers fan’s house but I have to admit this surprised the hell out of me. I picked up a slightly strong alcohol aroma which had me nervous at first but then my nose filled with hops. WTf was going on here I thought. The appearance was reminding me more of an IPA with the copper body and creamy head. First drink was a tad strong on the alcohol but hops and malt smoothed this bad boy out. Did I just enjoy a barleywine? Naw couldn’t have. A couple more sips later and I was loving this. It was warming, hoppy and malty which for a winter day was the perfect blend. I’m buying this again and living in fantasy land that its really a DIPA.

Spoon’s rating: A

On my list of breweries I must visit, Avery is top 5. Part 2 in the Avery series of Holy Trinity of Ales. Lets continue…

Avery – Salvation
brewery: Avery – averybrewing.com
style: Belgian Strong Golden Ale
abv: 9.0%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $7.99

Overview
The success of Hog Heaven and The Reverend clearly demonstrates that beer drinkers are willing to embrace “BIGGER” beers. In the fall of 2001, we decided that a lighter BIG BEER would complement its darker colored predecessors. Salvation has luscious apricot and peach aromas delicately interwoven with spicy suggestions of nutmeg and cinnamon. This heavenly soft, champagne-like elixer is cellarable for 3 years.

What I think
Absolutely gorgeous head and if I ever get the kitchen finished I can get decent lighting back. Appearance is golden and a stellar white lacing once the head settled.  The aroma was straight up Belgian with strong accents of fruit (I could really get peach over anything else) and yeast. Overall flavor had a stronger citrus than I expected but it was enjoyable. For a beverage of this light in color I was a bit thrown off by the medium body. It bounced between thick and medium. Finish was slightly bitter but very clean.

Spoon’s rating: A

Located in Akron Ohio, Hoppin Frog has quickly turned into one of my favorite breweries on the east coast. Brewmaster Fred was gracious enough to give us an interview at Steel City Big Pour 2008 and it was love at first hop.

Hoppin Frog Frosted Frog Christmas Ale
brewery: Hoppin Frog – hoppinfrog.com
beer website: Frosted Frog Christmas Ale
style: Winter Warmer
abv: 8.6%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint glass
price: $7.99

Overview
The essence of Christmas is captured in this very bottle you are holding. Perfectly blended spices compliment Frosted Frog’s rich malt flavors, creating the ultimate Christmas experience. Celebrate the holidays as you savor this very special seasonal offering.

What I think
Christmas has been over for close to a month now and I’m fed up with winter but one sniff of this warmer and I was ready for a night chillin by the fire. The spices are dominate but not so much in a way you think you’re inhaling potpourri, it’s a  feel like you walked into grandma’s kitchen on Christmas day. First taste… gingerbread. Oh yeah, spoon is having flashbacks to the pretend holidays experiences he never had. Smooth, soothing and a malty finish. Oh heck I’m just gonna say it. It’s like a glass of milk (or soy milk for my lactose intolerant brothers!) and gingerbread men. Ungodly amazing! This did come in a 22oz which by the end I was satisfied and could take a nap… and I did, for 2 hours, it was better than any other nap in the history of naps.  I love you Hoppin Frog! Solid finish with a medium sweetness and mild spice.

Oh yeah, if you’re a homebrewer looking for bottles you want to stock up on these empties. The labels peel off perfectly and leave no glue.

Spoon’s rating: A

I do stupid adventurous things even when people tell me not to and this is one of those moments. Actually this was an “I really don’t know what will happen… spoon will do it!”. The 2008 bottle above is left over from the case I bought after Christmas 08 and reviewed. While cleaning my basement I noticed that behind a 6pack of beers I was aging, a few bottles of  2008 Santa’s Private Reserve were hanging out. In the name of science I rushed out to buy the 2009 bottle and see how it would hold up. I was fair and cleansed my palate after each beer. Do not try this at home. You’ll hate yourself. Trust me.

Santa’s Private Reserve
brewery: Rogue Brewing - rogue.com
beer website: Santa’s Private Reserve
style: Red Ale
abv: 6%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint glass
price: $41/case in 2008, $3.75 bottle in 2009

Overview
Rogue’s annual holiday offering, Santa’s Private Reserve, is a variation of the classic Saint Rogue Red, but with double the hops–including Chinook, and Centennial, and a mystery hop called Rudolph by head brewer John “more hops” Maier!

What I think
You can probably figure out what happened here. Epic FAIL. I knew that the ABV wasn’t strong enough for it to last and that the style wasn’t right for sitting a year but wtf ever. I drink it so you don’t have to. If you wanna be stupid you gotta be tough.

2008: The nose was a huge bouquet of hops. Hop Heaven I’d even call it. Quickly turned and shot to hop Hell when I drank. Flavor was gone. It was stale. Couldn’t cleanse my palate fast enough. Stomach started to churn and I had more gas than a zeppelin.

2009: Shockingly the nose was almost non existent. I even had Lushie give it a shot and nothing. first taste I had slight hops but that would quickly die. The whole profile I had in review 29 was gone. It was dull with a bitter finish. My once favorite Christmas beer was turned to coal.

Spoon’s rating –  2008: D 2009: - C

Special delivery from Uncle Crappy over the summer, I finally got around to crackin this one open. 2 of my favorite things, Dogfish Head and an IPA. Hopefully I don’t get sea sick.

**I hosted a beer tasting last night at Bocktown Beer & Grill and didn’t get home till way late. If you came out, thanks! If not, chug a Bud as your penance you heathen!**

Dogfish Head Squall
brewery: Dogfish Head – dogfish.com
beer website: http://www.dogfish.com/brews-spirits/the-brews/occassional-rarities/squall-ipa.htm
style: Imperial IPA
abv: 9.0%
serving size: 750ml
glass used: snifter
price: $11.99

Overview
I could tell you about it but instead I’ll leave it to head pimp of Dogfish Head, Sam Calagioni

Click here to view the embedded video.

What I think
This starts out with an unusual aroma to it. It smells stale. The pour was epic so I was thinking that maybe my smeller was on the fritz. Took a step back and savored the moment because honestly it was beer porn. LOOK at that picture!  It’s heaven… but unfortunately the taste wasn’t. At first was in love with the hop punch to my face but by the time I was done with the first glass it went from “wooohooo!” to “zzzzzzzzzzzzzz!”. That’s right. Boring as all hell. The beer turned bland and I was disappointed. I’d tell you the flavors and all my usual jazz but there was none of that. It ranks up with Killer Penguin boring.

I talked to a few friends about their bottles and the overall opinion was that I may have had a bad one. I know I’m not going to like everything from a brewery but this one felt from the get-go that something was off.  Since this is such a rare beverage to get in SWPA does anyone wanna send me some to revisit

Spoon’s rating: C -

It’s time to get a little stoopid!

Lagunitas Hop Stoopid
brewery: Lagunitas Brewing Company – lagunitas.com
style: Imperial IPA
abv: 8%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $11.99

Overview
102 I.B.U. – nuff said

What I think
It’s not as bitter as the 102IBU’s make you think it might be. I actually thought the Sam Adams Imperial Pils was much more bitter.

As you can see from the pour above this beer came out pretty much perfect. The aroma on this is hop punch to the face with mild tones of citrus. The bod was a tad on the thick side but pleasant and the hops. Sweet googly moogly was this a freaking hop DREAM. As my buddy Phil would say “beergasm”!  The hops play around with your palate and a nice malty tent fills the rest of your mouth. The finish was like that moment when you kick back, take a deep breath and say “yeah… life is good”. That’s what this beer is.

Spoon’s rating: A+

The end of our pumpkin series this year and thank God. I don’t know if I could drink any more pumpkin beers. You just see 3 reviewed but these are the best 3 of the over 15 I had.

Southampton Pumpkin Ale
brewery: Southampton Publick House – www.publick.com
style: pumpkin (fruit/veg beer. whatev)
abv: 5.5%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.75

Overview
Southampton Pumpkin Ale is an unique amber-colored brew that has particular appeal during the autumn months and the holidays of Halloween and Thanksgiving. We use a generous amount of pumpkin as well as traditional “pumpkin pie” spices to give this unusual brew a definite seasonal character. Available in 22oz bottles and seasonal draft.

What I think
Odd I was able to buy this as a 12 oz. Oh well.

The off white head provided a stylish compliment to and unusually clear body which threw me for a loop since most of the pumpkin beers were a bit hazy. The aroma was straight up nutmeg and pumpkin with a slight malty tone. Smooth to drink but a little too much spice for my liking. The finish was malty and didn’t linger around which was good for me because if that spice stayed I’d have to scrape my tongue. Decent pumpkin beer and good representation of the style.

Spoon’s rating: B-

This is the start of a series since we’re in an interesting season for craft beer. Starting this week will be a series of oktoberfest/harvest/bocks followed by 3 weeks of pumpkin beers. If you’ve drank with me before you know what I think of the pumpkin style.  Some were good while others still sucked the soul from my palate. Here we go!

Southern Tier Harvest Ale
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Extra Special Bitter (ESB)
abv: 5.7%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.25

Overview
Harvest Ale is our celebration of the changing weather and the sowing of hops and barley that will be used in our upcoming brews. We usher in the fall with a classic English style Extra Special Bitter of the highest order. Deep ruby in color with an even deeper hop flavor… in fact, we throw fresh English hops into every brewing vessel, then dry hop after fermentation to impart a zesty kick. This beer has real hop character that mingles with fresh malted barley for an experience that will make you wish it were fall year ‘round.

What I think
As soon as I poured this I knew I was in love (sorry Lushie). The aroma was straight up hops with a twist of citrus but the body appearance worried me as it was almost as clear as a cheap macro. Thankfully the flavor was anything but cheap. the body had a medium feel but was packed full of citrus, hops and extremely crisp. The finish was refreshing with a slight hop aftertaste.

This pushes the boundaries with alcohol level on if I would call it a session beer but wtf, why not.  I can see myself sitting on my back porch, mowing the lawn, working on my car or even driving a semi truck without breaks down a hill during rush hour. See, you really can do anything!

When you see this beer it better make it into your basket. This is a MUST buy!

Spoon’s rating: A

This is a gift from my brother who was in Williamsport, PA a couple of weeks ago. I know it’s difficult to buy beer for me because he’s always asking me if I’ve had a certain beer when he’s travels. My advice, grab me an IPA.  He listened…

Bullfrog IPA
brewery: Bullfrog – bullfrogbrewery.com
style: India Pale Ale
abv: 8%
serving size: 64oz
glass used: pint
price: n/a

Overview
As the story goes, I was redesigning our I.P.A. to be bigger and better but as it came together it started to take on a life of its own. After much deliberation and several pints of our new creation we decided to name him after the master of macabre, Edgar Allen Poe, as a tribute to his aptly named short story “HOP FROG.” As Edgar fermented and spewed his almost abusive hop aroma throughout the pub, his legend and our thirst grew until finally one day, he was released into the world. We hope Edgar amuses you as much as he has us but stay on his good side because much like the story, this Hop Frog bites back!

What I think
I’m usually hesitant when a non-craft beer person buys me beer to try. I feel bad if I don’t like it because I can see their disappointment like they failed grade school. This time, someone got it right.

The pour was golden with more of a yellow-orange hue, not that rocky mountain clarity gold. Props on the pour since I’m doing it from a growler. Strong white 2 finger head that lasted a solid 5 minutes. The aroma is hops, hops and oh yeah hops. The initial flavor reminds me of a Loose Cannon IPA from Clipper City and was a real kicker. I could taste the complexity of various hops but I also got a hint of grapes. Yeah, you heard me, grapes. The finish has a malty smoothness with an extra hop blast. If I was going to brew an IPA this is the model I would follow. They really need to get this beer out to the masses because I can see medals in this future.

The pint glass btw I got from a church I won a 2009 Mustang

Spoon’s rating: A+

Picked this up while in Erie for the Beer on The Bay 2 a couple weeks ago. This was purchased at Wegmans which was roughly 3-6 dollars cheaper than any of the 6pack stores in Pittsburgh. If this is how things will be once Giant Eagle starts selling we could have a problem for the little guy.

Southern Tier Iniquity Imperial Black Ale
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Imperial Black Ale
abv: 9%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: tulip
price: $8

Overview
The hexagram talisman has been used around the world for centuries to invoke magic and good luck. The six–point star is also the customary symbol of the brewer, representing the essential aspects of purity: water, hops, grain, malt, yeast, and of course, the brewer. Wishes of good fortune often collaborate with the brewer’s creativity to yield dramatic results. We carefully chose the name for this Imperial India Black Ale, Iniquity – a word opposing goodness. Why? This beer is contrary to what one may expect from an IPA; this is an ale as black as night. It is the antithesis of Unearthly. Some may consider it an immoral act to blacken an ale. We suggest they don’t rely on conventional standards. Allow the darkness to consume you. Cheers!

What I think
The pour lived up to its name. Dark as dark can be and capped with a creamy tan head. Hoppy nose to the Iniquity with a slight sweetness that reminded me of Unearthly’s evil brother. Kinda like the evil superman, this one can only be stopped by one… the Oak Aged Unearthly. Its a fight I’d love to be a part of.  I did find the paleness in this refreshing and the blanket of hops on my palate was comforting. Slight smooth creamy finish added with the complexity to each taste has pushed this to my top 10 list.

Spoon’s rating: A

You won’t find this anywhere else besides at Bocktown in Pittsburgh. I say this because they use their own infuser (aptly named “BREWSER the Infuser”) to make some of the most interesting twists on draft beers. Bocktown has quickly become one of my favorite places to go to for a beer in Pittsburgh. Check out Should I Drink That Episode 53 where we recorded live at the Beer Dependence Day celebration!

Bells Pale Ale Infused
brewery: Bells Brewery – bellsbeer.com
style: American Pale Ale
abv: 5%
serving size: draft
glass used: pint
price: $4

Overview
A refreshing, blond colored pale ale. Bell’s pale ale is made almost exclusively from pale malt. It expresses a spicy floral hop aroma and taste.

What I think
Most of my friends know that I’m a big gin fan so on our first trip to Bocktown I find that they have Bell’s Pale Ale INFUSED with Juniper… oh sweet Jesus YES! Sickpuppy joined me and added “I’m not drinking a beer that tastes like a Christmas tree.” *sigh* some people just don’t understand.

The aroma of Juniper is mild and noticeable but not punching me in my sniffer. The infusion had no impact on the appearance of the beer so it retained a golden hue. The bartender Kris knew exactly how to pour and delivered a foamy 2 finger head that would have been perfect to rest a hop leaf on if you’re going for aesthetics.  The flavor was glorious for a gin fan who also happens to love pale ales. What I’m getting at is this was unbe-freakin-lievable!  Crisp with a strong wheat and hop presence followed up with some Juniper twang to finish it off.

Chris Dilla and the team at Bocktown really have delivered a quality product and experience. To cap off your trip you need to order from what I call the unbutton you pants delicious menu. Bocktown Burger will leave you in awe. Don’t believe me? Check out the report WTAE did.

Spoon’s rating: A

I had this last Friday on tap at the Bocktown Beer Dependence Day Celebration which we recorded at and published as Episode 53 of Should I Drink That.  Give it a listen but not until you’re done reading this of course

Stone Brewing 13th Anniversary Ale
brewery: Stone Brewing – stonebrew.com
beer website: www.stonebrew.com/13th/ale/
style: American Strong Ale
abv: 9.5%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $8

Overview
Stone 13th Anniversary Ale pours brilliant deep red with a light tan foam. Up front, the aroma is all piney, resinous and citrus hops. Upon tasting, the hops are still on the front, and they are balanced with the malty, toffee like flavors contributed from the blend of crystal and amber malts used in the brewhouse. The finish is deliciously bitter, with a touch of warmth provided by the 9.5% alcohol. Bitterness comes in at 90+ IBU.

What I think
Deep red? Understatement. Hop bomb? absolutely. The flavor profile is completely different from when I had this on tap. I love hops and this isn’t mouth puckering but I’m having a difficult time getting into this. The aroma is medium to strong hops with a punch of citrus. Appearance is very dark red and closing in on a deep brown. I’m guessing if you can get the lighting right this would be some kickass beer porn. The taste is dry to start with a medium carbonated body that refuses to carry past the front and finishes rough and tough (hence the high IBU’s). The lingering chinook hops are really beating this up for me. I took a little break and enjoyed sipping this for a few while watching TV and as it warmed up a bit more the bite from the hops wasnt as bad and this became one smooth ass beverage.

This is a one time buy for me out of the bottle but a must if I find it on tap.

Spoon’s rating: C+

Sickpuppy and myself made a trip to Bocktown in the Robinson/North Fayette area of Pittsburgh for a Monday afternoon delight. OK that just sounded bad. We are actually going to be part of the Beer Dependence Day event on July 3rd and wanted to go scope out the area and see what we will be doing. The trip quickly turned from business to OMFG look at this sweet beer selection! MANY beers we have been unable to get were all in one place.

Southern Tier Oak Aged Unearthly IPA
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Imperial IPA
abv: 11%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $15

Overview
At the Southern Tier Brewing Company, vigorously hopped beer is our standard and inspiration. We continue a commitment to innovation with an aggressive offering. Oak Aged Unearthly is a manifestation of the brewer’s craft; skillfully balancing art and the forces of nature to produce a divine liquid. Delicately pour a taste of this oak aged brew into a fluted glass. Smell the enchanting aromas of the hops waft forward as your first sip divulges this beer’s fervent soul. To underestimate Oak Aged Unearthly is to trifle with the mysteries of the universe, so please consume wisely. Consider it an immoral act to blacken an ale. We suggest they don’t rely on conventional standards. Allow the darkness to consume you. Cheers!

What I think
My eyes bugged out of my head when I saw this available. Not just a couple bottles but CASES. I haven’t been able to find this in stock anywhere else in Pittsburgh. I put my personal excitement aside since that has brought me to failure before. I admit that I think the original Unearthly is OK but I’ve had better IPAs. The bartender Kris poured the beverages for us and I had to compliment her skills as she managed to get the perfect head in a snifter. Right away from the aroma and first taste this reminded me of the mind blowing experience of the first time I had Southern Tier’s Gemini. Citrus and balanced hops with a smooth finish.

The hops were not as overpowering as I was expecting but this was a treat in oak aged goodness. I did get a hint from the oak aged but the smoothness just amazed me. To me I was damn close to reaching beervana again.

Buy this beer. Age this beer. Whatever you have to do, get some.

Spoon’s rating: A+

Victory Hop Devil is one of my favorite IPA’s of all time. Victory decided to take it one step further by messing with a good thing. The story behind this is a riot and I wish I had a recorder when, by chance, I met up with a sales rep. I’ve had it on tap but he insisted that the bottle was better. Time to find out.

Victory Wild Devil
brewery: Victory Brewing – www.victorybeer.com
style: India Pale Ale
abv: 6.7%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: tulip
price: $10

Overview
Bold, spicy, menacingly delicious HopDevil takes on an entirely new dimension when subjected to a wild yeast fermentation. A sharp, sourish edge has been added by this fermentations that plays into the caramel sweet malt deliciously and creates complex interplay with citrus accented hops. American IPA w/ Brettanomyces.

What I think
Sickpuppy bought this to share and tried to kill me with the cork (I will get you back) so I missed the initial pour and head. The appearance was slightly lighter than a HopDevil with a fruity, hoppy and funky aroma. Seriously, funky is the best word I can come up with. It truly was something haven’t come across before and the taste left me perplexed. It had more character than the draft and was smooth with a bit sour. I took a second drink and started to get citrus upfront that would start to mellow out. There was very little bite and then I would pucker. See what I mean, it was all over the palate road with a smooth and mellow finish. It felt like an extreme ride from Cedar Point.

Spoon’s rating: B+

Either you love it or hate it when Dogfish Head experiments with flavors. Me, I love it. Correction, I luuuuuurve it. They won’t release a beer for the sake of saying they brewed something new if it didn’t pass a rigorous tasting first. My palate rests in their brewing.

Dogfish Head Burton Baton
brewery: Dogfish Head – dogfish.com
beer webpage: http://www.dogfish.com/brews-spirits/the-brews/occassional-rarities/burton-baton.htm
style: Imperial IPA
abv: 10%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $5

Overview
A blend of oak-aged English strong ale and our 90 Minute I.P.A.. Citrus notes from Northwestern hops meld with vanilla notes from the oak.

What I think
I was blessed with a perfect night to cook on the grill some dead cows so it was only fitting I hit my collection of IPA’s. I’ve eyed up this bottle for awhile and finally bit the bullet when I was at the store last week. The pour could only be best described as beer porn. Creamy 2 finger head and crisp amber body glistening in the sun. The aroma was mild floral and faint citrus. The taste was… OK here I was worried because many Imperial IPA’s I’ve had lately would punch me in the palate with strong alcohol flavor. For a 10% ABV beer it was extremely balanced. I picked up mediocre maltiness which was a huge plus because it didn’t overpower the hops nor succumb to high alcohol. The finish was smooth and malty. Savor this one, don’t slam it.

If you’re a fan of the Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA there is a 99.9% chance you’ll love this. If you don’t like the 90, shut up and drink it anyways

Spoon’s rating: A-

I was in Studio A (notice the official bottle opener) to visit sickpuppy when he busted out a bottle of this with a snicker. You’re going to find out why.

Rogue Yellow Snow
brewery: Rogue Brewing – rogue.com
style: India Pale Ale
abv: 6% (that’s loosely based on Plato being 15. Thanks sickpuppy & Phil)
serving size: 22oz
glass used: Dogfish Head
price: $12.00

Overview
Pale golden in color with a hoppy fruity aroma. Big hop flavor up front complemented by medium body and hoppiness mid-pallet. Finishes with a characteristic lingering bitterness.

Yellow Snow IPA was originally introduced for the 2000 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Yellow Snow is Rogue’s tribute to winter sports everywhere—downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country, ice hockey, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and even curling.

What I think
I was always boastful that there wasn’t a Rogue beer that I didn’t like. Recently I had the Juniper Pale Ale and loved it. When sickpuppy had give me this bottle to try and not hoard it for himself I knew something was up.

It poured like a typical IPA. Copper color to the body and a frothy head accented with a delicious aroma of hops. How could this possibly be bad? Yeah, take a drink sport and get ready for grapefruit overload and hops. Quite possibly one of the worst combination since I chugged the Chelada. My mouth puckered and started to punch me from the inside out to finish it. I couldn’t tell you the body feel on it because my palate was screaming unfair punishment. The torture ended with a hoppy finish.

Watch out where the Rogue goes, don’t you drink that yellow snow.

Spoon’s rating: D-

This is a 50/50 blend of unfiltered Hoppe and Unearthly Imperial IPA. Grab on to something tight and hold on.

Southern Tier Imperial Gemini Blended Unfiltered Ale
brewery: Southern Tier - southerntierbrewing.com
style: Imperial Ale
abv: 10.5%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: sniffer
price: $12.00

Overview
High in the winter sky, two parallel stick figures are visible & known as “the twins,” or the constellation Gemini. The astronauts of the 1960s flew as teams of two in a program named after the celestial pairing. At Southern Tier, we have our own fraternal twins, Hoppe & Unearthly. Blended together & placed in this vessel, the mission of our Gemini is to travel high & take passengers on a journey far into the heavens.

What I think
This was one of those moments where I went to the bomber cooler and said “oh! shiny label! BUY! BUY! BUY!” and I’m thankful I did. Since I do live in Pittsburgh and it is football season I will dub this the  Immaculate Consumption.

As soon as I popped off the cap I could detect the hops fighting to get into my glass. The pour was close to heaven as it finished with a heavenly body and an unblemished head. Aroma was all hops which means to me good times ahead. I was anticipating a firm body and fell in love with a malty flavor dressed in hoppy goodness. The finish was the taste I wish to have as I meet St. Peter at the pearly brewery gates. Friends, I reached beer nirvana.

The flavor, aroma and overall experience has made this a crowning point of my beer tasting career. I’m not kidding when I say, for the flavor profile I have, this is the best beer I have ever tasted and I hope the next one is just as good.

Spoon’s rating: A+

It’s 8 days before Christmas so you deserve something to kick it up over the holiday. We all have whack jobs in our families and craft beer is what you need to drown them out. I wanted to do more Christmas themed beers this year but most I have had before and quite frankly are foul. The picture above is from a night at 3 Sons since the batteries in my camera died at the time of review. Eh, it happens.

Santa’s Private Reserve
brewery: Rogue Brewing – rogue.com
beer website: Santa’s Private Reserve
style: Red Ale
abv: 6%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint glass
price: $41/case, $3.75 bottle

Overview
Rogue’s annual holiday offering, Santa’s Private Reserve, is a variation of the classic Saint Rogue Red, but with double the hops–including Chinook, and Centennial, and a mystery hop called Rudolph by head brewer John “more hops” Maier!

What I think
The issue I have with a lot of winter offerings, as I see in pumpkin beers also, is a spice bomb and for me that is a huge turnoff. I’m more for balance in when it comes to a spice, bitter or sweetness. If this is your concern also, you’ve come to the right beer.

Pours a medium copper/amber with an astonishing head. Yeah, beer porn once again. The taste on this is hoppy like an IPA but with a sweetness of a red which, as I said above, gives balance. Oh sweet Jesus did it balance well and follows with a tad of fruit and spice. If you’re worried about the hops on the finish you can get that thought out of your mind. It has a mild body on it which doesn’t stick around long. This is my go to beer now in the winter season. Rogue you have saved me from a winter of misery when I want a beverage under 10% ABV to chill with.

Spoon’s rating: A

This week we feature a seasonal beer from a brewery back in my hometown of Erie, PA. I know it’s early in the site to repeat a beer already but after reading the original review here I felt it needed a worthy review. Plus I thought I reviewed the older, less ABV version which was retired.

Ol Red Cease and Desist
brewery: Erie Brewing – www.eriebrewingco.com
style: Wee Heavy Scottish Ale
abv: 10.1%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: sniffer
price: $31/case, $3.50 bottle

Overview
Erie Brewing presents the Beer formally known as Red Ryder BIG BEER – A beer dubiously awarded two cease and desist letters for its name. Ol’ Red Cease and Desist brings more to the table than just a big malty flavor and climaxing warming sensation…a legal record! This beer so recognized and loved by many deserves a unique name to match its unique history. What better name than Ol’ Red Cease and Desist – a name inspired by the long arm of the law!

What I think
Every winter I look forward to this beverage. The pour brings a crisp amber hue and a modest head. Lacing vanishes rather fast but that isn’t always a bad thing. You will get a gracious amount of malt on your palate that will do a great job of covering the 10.1% ABV. I purchased a few of these and noticed the body was heavier on one bottle over the other but didn’t result in much flavor variety but very very smooth. You’re going to be able to drink many of these before that ABV kicks you in the head. Treat it like NyQuil, plan a long slumber in Scottish ale bliss after consuming.

Spoon’s rating: B

Two weeks in a row with Southern Tier! I have a hard time justifying a bottle of beer priced at $17 so after some research I decided to pick it up. The results were, well, read on…

Southern Tier Curvee Series One
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: American Strong Ale
abv: 11%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: sniffer
price: $17

Overview
This is the first part in a limited series from Southern Tier Brewing. Series One was released this month with Two following in February 09 and finally Three in June 09. For more information check out the beers page of the Southern Tier website.

What I think
When I put money into a beer I have a certain level of expectations. In this case it came in a cardboard box with simple yet effective artwork and the bottle itself was impressive. Unfortunately the beer wasn’t. Not a fan of it. It tasted like the brewers were standing in front of the boil and said “Reginald, go open your lunch from mommy and lets see what we can use! Scurry! Scurry!”. It did pour a delightful copper color but had little aroma to be desired. The taste was a bland strong ale and got me to wondering if I had a bad bottle. Slights hops, little malt and quite frankly just a boring beer. Utterly disappointed but willing to revisit down the road. It was still an average strong ale which is why I give it the following grade.

Spoon’s rating: C-

When you’re done reading this I want you to go check out the official website for this line of beer. Knightshead is one of the most appealing sites I’ve seen this year. Only thing missing is the ABV for the beers and they never answered emails asking for it. That aside I LOVE the website – knightsheadbrewing.com

Knight’s Head Pale Ale
brewery: Round Table – lionbrewery.com
beer website: knightsheadbrewing.com
style: English Pale Ale
abv: N/A
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint glass

Overview
Sickpuppy had picked up a case of this when he was at Save on Beer because it was $10.  I’m not kidding, TEN DOLLARS! It’s a new brew from the makers of Lionshead (Best Head in Town!) and Butt Monkey in the fine Pennsylvania town of Wilkes-Barre. When I went to SoB I was told that the price will go up to $20-$25 some time in November so buy it now if you can.

What I think
This is a perfect gateway beverage when you’re starting out in craft beers. Poured a copper/amber body with very little head but provided a balance of hops and malt. The hop profile is very noticeable but doesn’t overpower the palate and leaves a moderate malt finish. This is your session beer, meaning it’s a beer that you can chill with and have more than a few. You can appreciate the flavor profile without having to put much thought into it. It’s just good. Plus for the price you can’t beat it.

Spoon’s rating: B

Last year I had the first ever pumpkin beer that I enjoyed every drink of. Since then I swore it was the Southampton Pumpkin Ale and guess what, I was way off. When I drink a pumpkin beer I like the taste of pumpkin roll. Pumpkin beers are made of either real pumpkins or pumpkin spices. Very noticeable difference if you put the 2 side by side. Trying to keep in the spirit of the season my next few reviews will be pumpkin beers. This is also the last HDH on this domain. I opened my trap about the new HDH domain and now it’s coming up on a local distribution list.  Basically I have to get the site done. Motivation baby! You will see my new format for reviewing also.  Excited eh?

The Beer
Past on past experiences with pumpkin beer I can usually count on one thing. Over spiced. Southampton while having a noticeable amount of nutmeg upfront and cinnamon in the back, it wasn’t an overkill mount. The nose on it was a little rough as it sparked memories of a spice bomb. I was actually pleased with the selection this year but as a bomber bottle (22oz) you really need to make a commitment to drinking once you open it. It was average but very drinkable. The head didn’t hang out very long as about 2 fingers worth was gone from the time I placed it down and picked up my camera.

Spoon’s rating: C+

This is one of the gems I brought back from my trip to Oswego for Silent Bob’s wedding (i know I still haven’t posted pictures) When I select beers for HDH I try to make it something that I haven’t already had on the show. I have drank Avery products before but being a huge fan of the IPA style it was a dream to see the wide availability of this in NY state (since it’s NEVER in Pittsburgh).

First off, I hate foil. It serves no purpose to me on beer besides to get into my beer and mess with my fillings. Yeah you know the feeling!  Fortunately for this beverage i was able to look past that as the label is one of the most well designed ones I’ve seen. The nose is that of a citrus/grapefruit with a hint of pine and hops. My first thought for an Imperial was high alcohol aroma but that wasn’t the case.

The head was fantastic. Fluffy cloud or pillow would be the best explanation. If serving at a bar, a hop leaf would be a killer addition. The whole way down it left beautiful lacing on my glass. The taste… well, OHMY FREAKINGLORD.  Yeah, that’s right. It had a full body of balanced heavy malt and hops and didn’t make me pucker. The finish was smooth and no lingering aftertaste which is always a concern for me when drinking Imperial IPA’s. Oh yeah, this gem is an A in my book.

Official spoon rating: A

On a final note, due to a considerable amount of time recording audio and video for SIDT I have been unable to keep up with HDH. Never fear as we have wrapped up recordings for now and you should see this back as a weekly feature. Plus I’m making a run to 3 Sons to see what all i can do for the fall/Oktoberfest season.

prost!

Yeah, go ahead and make the jokes. It’s inevitable at this point. I did it myself. Old Chub holds a place near and dear to my heart. Back when SIDT started we did a show about a favorite drinking game of ours called Beer Hunter (click here for details). I know, I know, it’s supposed to be played with junk beer but hey, we’re the craft beer guys. Why WOULDN’T we use a good beer?

Last week while at 3 Sons I picked up a 6 pack for home since it’s been awhile. I’ve had my share of Scottish ales and wanted to revisit the first one I ever had. If you’re unfamiliar with a Scottish Ale there is usually a higher malt flavor which is the shining star of this style while carrying a low hop profile. If you want to know why, this is caused by the wort carmelizing after a long boil. Hey, you asked. The ABV in Old Chub is 8% but in other Scottish Ales can reach as low as 4. Most of the ones I drink are a high 6 to a low 7.

The can I had poured a dark copper hue and finished with a solid 2 finger head which stuck around until midway through the drinking. There was a fair balance of malt in it but not to the point that it made my mouth fill with sweetness. I did have some lingering malt aftertaste but not enough that it bothered me.

Old Chub is made by the Oskar Blues Brewery in Colorado who have become famous for successfully distributing craft beer in a can. Previously this was unheard of but these guys got the system down without the use of that bullshit “venting” system that Coors has.

Overall this is an A from me. When I get a grading system down I’ll have to figure out what that is. Maybe the Fonz.

Oh and for the record, you college kids or jagoffs who shotgun beer cans, don’t try it with any of the Oskar products. You’ll fail miserably. We tried for the sake of science once… ONCE!

cheers!

Pens pre-game (Pens lost 3-2 and the cup 4-2) tonight was at Mad Mex in Cranberry once again and to keep the pattern going it was another IPA. Gordon IPA is from the Oskar Blues brewing company in Colorado. The thing you need to know is that they are the pioneers of successfully putting craft beer in a can. That’s right, in a can.

It was difficult to judge the color of the pour due to the dim lighting in Mad Mex but the head was about 2 fingers. The aroma on the beer was generous of hops but what got me was the taste. you’ll notice the hops right away but it’s not overpowering. There was malt but not too much sweetness and amazingly the finish I had on it reminded me of chocolate raspberry candy. I know, weird eh?

I have had this from the can before (this was on draft) and honestly it’s a world of difference. No doubt that I will take the draft over the can but the canned product is still delicious. I will have to try this one on tap elsewhere just to make sure the taste wasn’t a residual from a previous beer that the restaurant had in stock.

Buy it if you can but try to find it on tap.

Links
Beer Advocate
Brewery website

Great Lakes has always been a favorite brewery of mine since I started into craft beer. Yeah i know, it’s close to where I’m from but that’s not why I enjoy them. Trust me there has been plenty of junk beer brewed in the Great Lakes area of PA/OH/NY. Honestly I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad beer from them.

My first experience with the IPA came a couple weeks ago when I went Cornholing. Since we had some  leftovers I decided to throw a couple in my fridge for later so I could revisit when my taste wasn’t tainted with Yuengling.

The Commodore Perry pours a light to medium golden body (which is uniquie for IPA’s I usually drink) with a healthy head. For the lacing addicts I’m currently half way done with my glass and it’s keeping a hold with strength and grace. The nose on this threw me off. Under a blind smell test I would have sworn this was a Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA. A floral of hops and malt. The taste was very interesting which kept me investigating. Most of the time I have a lingering taste of hops in my mouth but this one has a nice malt finish to take away from the bite of the hops.

final verdict: If you’re a fan of IPA’s and you like the mild sweetness of malt then you should waste no time in picking up a 6 pack.

Great Lakes website: www.greatlakesbrewing.com

cheers!

It’s been a few weeks so what do I do on my first day back… happy hour of course! Lushie and I actually went to dinner at Mad Mex tonight and since it was during happy hour I had to take advantage of the specials. Honestly the $7 for a pint (16oz) seems VERY high since I can buy a bomber bottle (22oz) from 3 Sons Dogs and Suds for $8 but this WAS happy hour so I partaked in 32oz for $7.

Moylan’s is the most hyped beer in recent memory to come into the Commonwealth of PA. A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to get the hopsickle on cask at Fat Heads. A day later 3 Sons announced they had a well stocked supply of all available in PA. I was geeked and when I arrived last Thursday found myself engulfed in the Pens game plus many bottles of Shipwrecked Porter.

The scottish ale comes in at 8% which is around average for a scottish ale/wee heavy. Since this was brought from the server the head had pretty much dissipated. This craft beverage could very well be the best draft I have ever had at a Mad Mex. The perfect mix of hints of malt, hops and fruit with a creamy finish ranks this as a gold medal winner in my book. No lingering overkill taste on the palate makes this a must buy on tap. I’ve been told that this is a must buy also in the bomber bottle so that may be this week.

My opinion, go buy it NOW! Seriously… stop now and buy it. I have a feeling that after a few of these you could live up to it’s aptly titled name.

cheers!

East End is not only Pittsburgh’s best kept secret but also PA’s. Brewmaster/owner/washer/buyer/marketer/label guy/pimp/anything else for the brewery is Scott Smith. That’s right, it’s a one man show with many volunteers. What holds dear to me is that his brewing system is from the once home of myself, Foundry Ale Works. If you ever get the chance to say hi to Scott I highly suggest you do so. He’s a great guy who loves great beer. Or as his slogan says “Buy a good friend a good beer.”

Big Hop IPA is a super hopped up beer and is the first that came down the lines at East End. This time I’m drinking from a growler (1/2 gallon or 64oz) that was filled during Growler Hours this past weekend so it’s pretty fresh. If you’re following along, I was in Erie last weekend so sickpuppy from Should I Brew That (and my co-host from SIDT) picked one up for me.

The IPA pours a slightly hazy amber hue with little head (remember this is from a growler). After my 2nd and 3rd though I had a nice 2 finger head which died rather fast. Unlike most IPA’s I’ve had before this one has a faint aroma of hops which didn’t bode well with me at first since I like a balance of both aroma and flavor but this beer was packed with hop goodness. You’ll have a nice linger of hops on the back of your tongue so even when you finish a pint you’ll still have the taste to remind you of why this is a quality brew.

All good things said, the only downfall I found was that it seemed to be too carbonated. Not soda drink bubbly but noticeable but it won’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the IPA. When you’re in the area or see East End Brewing at a  beer festival it is a must that you check them, err him, out. Thumbs up Scott!

ABV: 5.4%
IUB: 70
Hops: Centennial, Cascade

East End Brewing website

Ever since I started into craft beers I’ve heard nothing but good hype about Bear Republic and as of a few weeks ago PA finally made it to the distribution list. I did some research and found this listed as a strong ale, red ale and a Scottish ale soooooooo we’re gonna see what I think.

It has a hint of tea that’s close to a red and but is super hopped up. Your mouth is left with a nice pucker and hoppy aftertaste while sits a tad heavy on the tongue. It pours as a dark amber and leaves a new pillow fluffy tan head. The aroma is pretty tight as it’s packed with hops and a faint hint of citrus. If you’re a lacing nut you’re gonna LOVE the beer porn lace this leaves behind.

Overall it’s a delicious red ale but I’m not sold that it’s the cream of the crop as you’d read on Rate Beer or Beer Advocate. It ranks in my top 10 but not numero uno. If you’d like to pick one of these up I was able to purchase this for $6.50 at 3 Sons in a bomber bottle.

Bear Republic website

Don’t rub your eyes, it’s not a mirage. That right there is the holy grail of beer. The rarest of rare (IMO at least). I present to you the 2002 Sam Adams Utopias. Currently on ebay this is going for $400 a bottle. Yeah, 1 bottle. This limited edition beverage was supposed to be a one time deal and each bottle is numbered.

I need to thank Drew for this one. He bought it when it was first released and while on his way here to visit me last week said “there’s no one else I’d rather drink it with who would appreciate it.” Imagine my amazement. Drew and I lived across the hall from each other at Pitt so we have a long history of beverages together.

from samueladams.com
“Truly the epitome of brewing’s two thousand year evolution, Samuel Adams Utopias® offers a flavor not just unlike any other beer but unlike any other beverage in the world. Its warm, sweet flavor is richly highlighted with hints of vanilla, oak and caramel. With an alcohol content of 27% by volume, its complexity and sweet, malty flavor is reminiscent of a deep, rich vintage Port, fine Cognac or aged sherry while being surprisingly light on the palate. And like the world’s finest after-dinner drinks, Samuel Adams Utopias is not carbonated and should be served at room temperature.”

Normally i’d type my review but guess what? Oh we’re not done, there’s VIDEO!

Click here to view the embedded video.

This is posted on the You Tube page for the SIDT podcast since we’re releasing it through the show. It’s almost 10 minutes long so crack open a beverage and enjoy!

OH! Also check out Episode 33 – Kiss our Blarney Stones which was just released also!

Links
Sam Adams website
Beer Advocate profile
Rate Beer profile

from dogfish.com
“An unfiltered, unfettered, unprecedented brown ale aged in handmade wooden brewing vessels. The caramel and vanilla complexity unique to this beer comes from the exotic Paraguayan Palo Santo wood from which these tanks were crafted. Palo Santo means “holy tree” and it’s wood has been used in South American wine-making communities.

This beer is a 12% abv, highly roasty, and malty brown ale aged on the Palo Santo wood. It was a huge hit at our Rehoboth Beach brewpub when first released in November of 2006, so it’s coming back… into full production.

At 10,000 gallons each, these are the largest wooden brewing vessels built in America since before Prohibition. It’s all very exciting. We have wood. Now you do too.”

We’ll see about that…

When a new DFH is available in my area, I try it. It’s like a new style of Pepsi, gotta try at least once. I got word from the weekly 3 Sons mailing list that the Palo Santo Marron was in. The what? I’ve never heard of this one? I have been lax on my DFH 2008 Release calendar so eh, my bad.

The pour was exciting. As soon as I finished emptying the last drop into my pint glass, the head on this beer went from a stagnant tan line and exploded into a nice 2 finger head. Didn’t last very long but it was cool to watch. Props for effects.

The aroma caught me off guard. Vanilla? *sniff* Banana? *sniff* fruity? wtf is going on here? According to the bottle and website this is an American Brown style beer. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a brown ale and I must say that I have NEVER had one like this. I like that, a style that surprises me.

First off this is 12% ABV. I’m not kidding, 12%! The max you would normally see is 8% so really it shouldn’t shock me that DFH kicked it up. I’d wager to say that most browns I’ve tasted have been pretty much the same. A little nutty, malty and slightly hoppy. The Palo Santo(Holy Tree) Marron was de-friggin-licious. Here’s why…

First off, I can’t taste the alcohol. When you see 12% ABV you face the risk of a strong alcohol taste. Must be the holy wood that fools you. Vanilla! Vanilla! Vanilla! Oh sweet Jesus it’s not overpowering but you know it’s there. *taste* mmm That would be a little fruit and nuts. Anyone who’s a freak about lacing though won’t like that it’s non-existent. Should you care? I really don’t. It doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a fine beverage.

Price I paid was $5 for a 12 oz bottle and $17-$18 for a 4 pack. That may seem pricey but for the Bud/Coors/Miler drinkers that would be equivalent to 12 of your beers… in 4 bottles. Crack one open and say hello to Wonderland, bitches!

Tröegs is one of my favorite breweries. Their Troegenator Doublebock is in my top 5 of best beers ever.  It came no surprise to me when I poured this Nugget Nectar that a shift in my standings was due.

The Nugget Nectar is listed as a red ale so don’t let the intense hops aroma fool you. Before that may scare you away the aroma isn’t overpowering. It poured a good head that was slightly fluffy. Unfortunately it was gone very fast. Nectar has a medium amber color to it instead of a darker red (the picture doesn’t do the hue justice). The body? Ohhhhhhh sweet jesus was it sinful. I’m going as far as to say that I would take this over my beloved Dogfish Head 90 minute.  The finish was smooth and didn’t hang around for awhile.

Buy it now.  Seriously. Stop what you’re doing and buy a 6pack.

I picked up a case of this year’s version of Ol’ Red from Erie Brewing. For years this has been one of the few beers that I wait to hit the Pittsburgh market since it is a limited brew. This year is 1%  higher in alcohol to push it to 10.1% and has another new name. From what I learned via email from Erie Brewing that they were served a “Cease and Desist” letter (hence the name)  because the old logo was a kid with an eye patch and b.b. gun ala A Christmas Story.

Ok, now the beer. I broke my rule and bought a case of something I never tasted. Usually I try a bottle at 3 Sons Dogs n Suds first. At $30 a case at Save on Beer I figured wtf, why not. First off it’s 10.1% so that right there makes it a buy. It’s a scottish style ale with a hint of alcohol taste. Not like Ole Heathen but it’s noticeable. It has great head retention with a perfect 2 finger pour and a nice malt finish.

I give it a thumbs up. Overall I think this is one of my favorite Erie beers. I did get a sample of the Misery Bay IPA while at the Great International Beer Fest last weekend. You will be in for a GREAT surprise once it’s available.

6.2% ABV – Fall Release

Poured a light amber color with a fluffy head. Aroma of fresh tea leaves and nice hop flavor that wasn’t overpowering… and damn was it tasty