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

Oh lordie we have ourselves some beer porn!

Gouden Carolus Hopsinjoor
brewery: Brouwerij Het Anker – http://www.hetanker.be/
style: Belgian IPA
abv: 8.0%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $7.99

Overview
“Hopsinjoor” is a wordplay to for one thing the several hops which were used, and on the other hand the typical character of Mechelen of Gouden Carolus: the figure “opsinjoor” is intertwined with the history of Mechelen (see: www.opsinjoorke.be/Opsinjoorke/opsinjoor.htm).

4 types of hops are used: Golding, Spalt, Hallertau and Saaz. These hops were fractioned at several times in the cooking process in order to keep a maximum of aroma.

Regarding to taste we can say that the beer has a gentle, but nevertheless bitter aftertaste. Gold-yellow colour. Hoppy aroma.

What I think
Just LOOK at that head! Sweet God almighty I just stepped back and admired it for awhile. The body sits with an incredible golden hue which if you’re strictly an IPA drinker this could be a curve ball for you. The aroma was challenging at first. I picked up strong citrus upfront and that followed with a nose-full of hops. The taste brought on a sweetness that I was expecting but the carbonation was a bit high for my taste but the flavor was balanced with the amount of hops used. The finish was really what perked my interest. It started out sweet and ended semi-dry. Complexity is a great way to sum up this one.

Spoon’s rating: A-

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

This is from the now infamous $400 Beer Run that sickpuppy and I took to Vintage Estate in Boardman, Ohio; the mecca of beer stores. I love Avery and having a name like Father Spoon this is a given.

Avery – The Reverend
brewery: Avery – averybrewing.com
style: Quadruple
abv: 10.0%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint glass
price: $6.99

Overview
The Reverend, was created in tribute to the life of Sales Mgr. Tom Boogaard’s grandfather, an ordained Episcopal Reverend. Tom was inspired by the life of his grandfather and wanted to create a tribute beer that contained his sterling traits. True to both our “small brewery, BIG BEERS” philosophy and to the spirit and character of the departed Reverend, this beer is strong willed, assertive, and pure of heart, a heart of candy sugar. It contains as many authentic imported Belgian specialty malts as the brewers could cram into our mash tun, and lots of Belgian dark candy sugar stirred into the brew kettle. A divinely complex and beautifully layered beer with hints of dark cherries, currants, and molasses, complimented by an underlying spiciness. Sinfully smooth considering the high alcohol content. Cellarable for up to 4 years.

What I think
Lets be honest, if you’re drinking a Quad there’s a good chance there is only 1 unless you want to get seriously tuned up. I’ve tolerated Belgians before because I had to for reviews but not until recently has the flavor profile started to appeal to me. This one… sweet jesus almihght you need to pray to the Reverend.

The appearance was darker than I was expecting. I wasn’t expecting it to be a shade of amber but was pleasantly surprised at the grace of the head forming. The white balance was a bit off in that picture but none the less it was a creamy head. The body smacked me in the face. It was a tad on the thick side and quickly coated my palate with a syrup like feel. Surprisingly I enjoyed it… over and over and over again. The finish gave me some alcohol kick but thing that wouldn’t soon wash away with the next drink.

Spoon’s rating: A

This is from the now infamous $400 Beer Run that sickpuppy and I took to Vintage Estate in Boardman, Ohio; the mecca of beer stores. This was bought solely because of the name and label.

Brew Kettle Dark Helmet
brewery: The Brew Kettle Taproom and Smokehouse – thebrewkettle.com
style: Schwarzbier
abv: 9.0%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint glass
price: $6.99

Overview
A Ringneck original, Imperial Schwarzbier is a German style black lager, kicked up at least one notch,
maybe two!

What I think
For an impulse buy it wasn’t bad. The pour was very dark and head vanished really quick but did stick around for a photo. Slight aroma of a sweet malt but it was more on the weak end. The body was fairly light and really seemed bland. It had a few moments where a roastedness would spring to life and like a quick sugar rush it crashed hard. Buy it for a novelty and try it out. Above and beyond that save it for a a beer you’d watch while watching the game after dinner.  You don’t have to think while drinking.

Spoon’s rating: C+

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

I know what you’re thinking. Spoon, a gimmick beer? wtf!  I couldn’t resist. If I want to have a justified opinion I need to taste it for myself otherwise I’m just as lame as those cowboy Bud/Coors/Busch drinkers. Yeeehaw!

Think you may know who Donnie Iris is but not 100% sure? Watch this for your flashback.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Yes, THAT Donnie Iris made his own beer.

King Cool Light
brewery: Lion Brewing – lionbrewery.com
beer website: kingcool.com
style: Lite American Lager
abv: N/A
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $2.75

Overview
King Cool Light – A Light American Lager made with the finest two- and six-row barley and a perfect blend of American and European hops. A touch of caramel malt gives it its brilliant amber color and rare flavor.

Brewed in the finest rock ‘n roll tradition of uncompromising quality, this is my signature beer and I hope you enjoy it. Cheers!  ~Donnie Iris

What I think
Here’s your only warning, its a twist cap.

Shocked at the quality of head on the pour. Thumbs up for visual appeal. There is virtually no aroma on this beer but I was able to pick up a faint grain. Now for the real test, the taste.  “It’s Donnie Iris for christ’s sake, it can’t be THAT good. It’s a damn gimmick beer” I’m thinking along with “I’m gonna have to chug this.”

STOP THE PRESSES! This actually isn’t THAT bad for its style.  The beer claims to be an American Lite Lager and while I think it had too much malt for that classification it was light, crisp and refreshing. The malt was seriously dominant and reminded me of a light bodied dopplebock. For awhile there I thought I was getting some banana.

I think this beer will have a mass appeal and the low alcohol level (for a Lite American Lager it can’t be over 4.2% ABV) is also going to make this a popular lawnmower/tailgating beer.

At the end of the day I would take this over Yuengling on most occasions and I give it a higher than “C” rating because I really enjoyed it. *sigh* Donnie what have you done to me!

Spoon’s rating: B -

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 -

I’m a sucker for a fancy label but knowing the great success I’ve had with Ithaca Beer Company in the past I thought I’d give this one a shot. Milk Stout though… this could hurt the lactose intolerant guy. The things I do for science. *sheesh*

Ithaca Eleven
brewery: Ithaca Beer Company – ithacabeer.com
style: Milk Stout
abv: 7.5%
serving size: 22 oz
glass used: pint
price: $11.99

Overview
Brewed with British, German, and French malts, American hops, and milk sugar, then aged for weeks on locally roasted Sumatra coffee beans.

What I think
Again with the coffee aroma. I’m sure I would dig coffee shops if the culture behind most of the jagoff drinkers wasnt there. I LOVED the aroma of this. As soon as I opened the bottle it was a nose full of coffee and sweetness. Its like a hot chocolate on a frigid winter day but without burning your tongue. My gripe from appearance was that the head vanished very quickly. I would have liked to stuck my nose in the frothy goodness a bit longer.

Eleven packs a medium body with upfront deep roasted beans and chocolate balanced by a little carbonation. The finish was soothing and a latte aftertaste.  Should you buy some? This is absolutely one you need to pick up but I wouldn’t sit it on the shelf, you deserve to enjoy this soon.

Spoon’s rating: A+

This was a tasty treat from Chris at Bocktown. I think she was tired of hearing me whine about not having this yet so with growler in hand I caved. Many thanks to her and the Bocktown staff for yet another great craft beer trip!

Flying Dog 20th Anniversary Raging Bitch
brewery: Flying Dog – flyingdogales.com
style: Belgian Style IPA
abv: 8.5%
serving size: 64oz
glass used: pint
price: n/a

Overview
Bitches come in a variety of forms, but there’s never been something as sassy as Flying Dog’s Raging Bitch Belgian IPA. An American IPA augmented with Belgian yeast, our 20th anniversary beer jumps out of the glass and nips at your taste buds with its delicate hop bitterness. At 8.3% ABV, this bitch is dangerously drinkable.

What I think
Flying Dog doesn’t get enough credit in this area for the all out greatness of their beers. The Canis Minor series is probably the best variety pack available in the commonwealth. When Chris called that she had Raging Bitch in for a limited run I knew I had to get there.

Pouring form the growler you can’t fully appreciate the deliciousness in the picture of the head that was around when I poured it. But since I was a putz about lighting is fizzled quick. The aroma on this was straight up hops with a slight Belgian twang. None of that sissy nancy triple hopped Miller Lite bullshit. A fistful of Amarillo beating on your nostrils. Nice imagery eh?

The taste… ohmyfreakinglord the taste. Give me a moment… ahhhh hops, hops, little citrus, Belgian sweetness and more hops. It’s like chewing gum that Violet eats in Willy Wonka. Oh the next course… YUM! The finish was straight up rockstar goodness. Smooth with a slight hop aftertaste that was very flavorful.

Spoon’s rating: A+

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-

Part 2 of 3 pumpkin beers! O’Fallon just came into the Pittsburgh market in the last 12-18 months and what a delight it has been.

O’Fallon Pumpkin Beer
brewery: O’Fallon Brewery – www.ofallonbrewery.com
style: pumpkin (fruit/veg beer. whatev)
abv: 5.6%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.75

Overview
Like pumpkin pie in a bottle…we add 136 pounds of real pumpkin to the three-barley mash and then season the finished beer with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Available September 1.

What I think
*BOUNCE* *BOUNCE* PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE!PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE!PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE! PUMPKIN PIE!

The only thing missing was some coolwhip!  Go buy it NOW (the beer… and some CoolWhip)!

Oh OK I won’t rip you out of more details. Not like you paid for the beer. *sheesh*

If they can find a way to make the head creamier that would be killer. The aroma is slight cinnamon and nutmeg put quickly gets lost as you take your first drink. Incredibly smooth, cool and all the characteristics of pumpkin pie without the texture. There was a medium body that covers your palate in pumpkin goodness. Finish was a tad sticky but just drink more.

Spoon’s rating: A- (there would be an “A” if they work on the head a touch)

And now we get into a style which can cause great anger and yet great happiness in beer drinkers. There is no in between, either you like a type of pumpkin beer or you wish it would die in a horrible crash. If you DO ike pumpkin beers its because of either all spices or pumpkin pie flavor. Personally I like some pumpkin beers.

Leading up to Halloween I give you 3 pumpkin beers to savor and a heads up on what to have for the parents when they need a break from going door to door.

Arcadia Ales Jaw Jacker
brewery: Arcadia Brewing Company – www.arcadiaales.com
style: pumpkin (fruit/veg beer. whatev)
abv: 6%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.75

Overview
Jaw-Jacker Ale is our Fall Seasonal, a celebration of harvest-time and the changing of the seasons.  Using only the finest malted barley and a touch of wheat for mouth-feel, Jaw-Jacker pours a brilliant orange-amber color with truly unique flavors.  Although no pumpkins are used, a blend of nutmeg, allspice and cinnamon work with malty flavors to create a bold flavor reminiscent of pumpkin pie.  A light hop note balances out the beer nicely.

What I think
As soon as I started pouring, the aroma of nutmeg was strong with a hint of sweetness from the malts. The head, well there wasn’t much to talk about there. The body seemed a bit watered down and the flavor matched the aroma… Spice bomb in your mouth. The only saving grace was that the malt came to the rescue but a little too late. Did finish smooth but was rough up till that point.

Spoon’s rating: C

This is the end of the fall beers before we get into the pumpkins next week. I love this time of season because I’m finding out that I’m more of a malty fan than a hop bomb when the leaves start to change. Ironic since I’m not a fan of things that are sweet.

Erie Brewing Fallenbock
brewery: Erie Brewing Company – www.eriebrewingco.com
style: Doppelbock
abv: 7.8%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.75

Overview
History states that the first Oktoberfest was on October 12, 1810: For the commemoration of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Keeping up with Erie Brewing’s German brewing influence, our brewer creates Fallenbock, a classic Oktoberfest lager that is a harmonious marriage of classic malts and hops that has a wonderful clean and crisp flavor to celebrate Autumn and Oktoberfest.

What I think
My favorite Doppelbock of all time has been Troegenator and I never thought that I would ever meet a beer that could make a run for the crown. That was until I had my first Erie Fallenbock. The pour was a dark amber with a light to moderate head. I was hoping for something a bit creamier but was pleased to see it stick around for a bit.

The aroma was sweet with a hint of chocolate. The taste was mouthful of malt but was balanced with light hops as to not make overpowering. The body was moderate and finished with a velvety smooth sweet chocolate. There isn’t much I would change on this beer except that I wish more was available.

Spoon’s rating: A-

Things have been crazy this week with that little thing called G-20 which has basically the whole world watching Pittsburgh. Next week we’re back to our regularly scheduled blogging… n’at

Throwing you a curve ball here with the planned beverages since this came in special delivery from Ohio.

Stone Vertical Epic 09-09-09
brewery: Stone Brewing Company – stonebrew.com
style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale
abv: 8.6%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: $8

Overview
This is quite a complex and layered beer. Bold and smooth chocolate malt flavors combine with a Belgian yeast lending tropical fruit/banana flavors and hints of spiciness, all complemented by citrus notes from an addition of tangerine peel. Rich vanilla beans add a nice counter to the chocolate malt – actually enhancing the chocolatiness. The finish is smooth, with additional traces of vanilla and toasted characters from French Oak. The goal for this edition of the Stone Vertical Epic Ale series is to be reminiscent of artisanal chocolates accentuated with orange.

What I think
I’m always cautious about trying this series right away because I know that I’ll end up putting one bottle in my basement. Though that didn’t work well with a flooding basement so I have to start over.

First off the pour. Thick, dark and rich creamy head. Oh yeah, we’re already off to a good start. The nose was a bland chocolate, almost like a faded scratch-n-sniff sticker from grade school. The taste was extremely complex at first as I was trying to figure out what I tasting first. A little bit of chocolate, slight vanilla and a strong banana flavor. The body was medium and finished really smooth but I think this is still a young one and will benefit greatly from some time to mature downstairs.

My advice is buy 2 bottles. Drink one now, write down some notes and then drink the second one in a year… or you can wait for 12-12-12. Either way you’ll want to sit tight and i think this has the most potential of all the VE series I’ve had to date.

Spoon’s rating: B-

This is the 2nd of a series since we’re in an interesting season for craft beer. Starting last week I will be reviewing 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. Game ON!

Erdinger Oktoberfest Weizen
brewery: Erdinger – http://www.erdinger.de/
style: Hefeweizen
abv: 5.6%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $3.25

Overview
Erdinger is brewed all-naturally, using traditional bottle-fermentation, never pasteurized.

What I think
I haven ever had an Oktoberfest Hefe before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve had both styles before but this was the first where they were mixed and it was quite the trip. First off it had a hazy body which is typical of many hefeweizens that I’ve tried but the amberish tint made me curious as to how these styles would blend. The head was very fluffy and hung around for a while so expect to get a white tipped nose when you tip it back. The aroma on it was a bit mixed. First I picked up a strong wheat followed by a touch of orange. The taste was somewhere between light and medium mouthfeel and once the malt settled in I could tell this was a winner. The finish was smooth but didn’t finish as crisp as I was expecting. Overall worth a try and ranks better than most oktoberfest beers I’ve had this season.

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

Free time these last few weeks has been rare and I felt the need for a treat so I stopped over at The Beer Store one day while driving through Moon TWP and picked up what I thought would be a celebration of deliciousness. Let’s see how that turned out…

Weyerbacher 14
brewery: Weyerbacher- weyerbacher.com
style: Wheat Wine
abv: 11.8%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: snifter
price: $4.83

Overview
To honor 14 years of making craft beer we decided to brew a wheat wine. This unfiltered brew is made with over 50% wheat to give it a distinctly spicy character. Enjoy it now, or if you have the patience, give it some time in your cellar. When you are ready, expect to find notes of tart wheat and honey with crisp bitterness and carbonation. Recipe by Head Brewer Chris Wilson and Brewer Jeff Musselman.

What I think
Weyerbacher is a brewery I love and also insanely pissed off at the same time. They make some of my favorite beers (Merry Monks and Double Simcoe IPA) and yet have beers with so much potential that gets ruined in a grossly strong alcohol taste (Insanity and Blithering Idiot) that I run into a corner and cry. Fourteen falls into the second group.

Don’t tell me “that’s just the style and you dont appreciate it”. I’ve had wheatwines that have rocked. This one does not.

The appearance was promising. Head was solid for a minute and the body was a hazy shade of orange. Aroma leads me to believe it would be stong in wheat but the flavor turned into a mouthful of that banana flavored novacaine that the dentist would use when you were a kid becuase he thought fruit flavored drugs would make the pain more tollerable. Strong alcohol and spice with a splash of naners. Finish was rough and tasted like burning.

This is a sipper and after awhile your palate goes numb so you finish it because of the buzz potential.

Spoon’s rating: C-

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

*This week’s review comes from my good friend Phil at My Life As A Foodie. I’ve been sick with laryngitis the past couple of weeks so instead of ruining a beer with a funked palate I called in the big guns. Thanks Phil!*

The old adage “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover” has served as a lifelong proverb for everyone to simply give things a chance, no matter what your first inclination is. To not try something simply because of its appearance at first glance is short-sighted, and can sometimes cheat you of an incredible experience. That’s exactly the case with Ten Fidy, an Imperial Stout from Oskar Blues Brewery in Lyons, Colorado. Ten Fidy, like all of the beers from Oskar Blues, comes packaged in 12 ounce cans.  And I’m here to tell you that canned craft beer is here to stay.

In 2002, Oskar Blues became the first US microbrewery to brew and can its own beer, destroying the myth that cans impart flavor to it. These days, aluminum cans are lined with a water-based coating, so the beer goes untouched. There are many advantages to canning craft beer. Among them, it allows you to chill the beer more quickly, and it keeps light from striking it. So beers loaded with hops (such as IPAs, and Imperial Stouts) won’t be victim to skunking if exposed to light for long periods of time.

Oskar Blues Ten Fidy
brewery: Oskar Blues Brewery – oskarblues.com
beer website: www.oskarblues.com/brew/
style: Imperial Stout
abv: 9.5%
serving size: 12 oz cans (yes, cans!)
glass used: snifter
price: $10 (4 pack)

Overview
It’s the beer equivalent of decadently rich milkshake made with malted-milk balls and Heaven’s best chocolate ice cream. Ten FIDY is about 10% ABV and is made with enormous amounts of two-row malts, chocolate malts, roasted barley, flaked oats and hops. Its huge-but-comforting flavors hide a whopping 98 IBUs that are deftly tucked underneath the beer’s mountains of malty goodness.

What I think
Imperial Stouts are generally known as Winter beers.  Because of their high alcohol content (in this case, 9.5% ABV), they tend to lay heavy on your tongue which some find less palatable in warmer seasons such as this.  But this beer doesn’t do that. It’s lush, yes — rich with malt and chocolate and slight hints of vanilla. With such a sweet overall balance of malt, it almost seems that the hops play a very minor role in the overall flavor of the beer. Even the roasted barley, one of the most integral ingredients of any Stout, doesn’t take over.  Ten Fidy almost seems like a beer that doesn’t take itself seriously, when it should. It couldn’t be less assuming. It is in a can, after all.

Don’t judge this beer by its appearance in its package. Because once it’s in your glass, it’s a whole new ball game. Available coast to coast.  http://www.oskarblues.com/locations/

Phil’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+

Last week there was no update. Penguins won game 6 the night before in the Stanley Cup Playoffs leaving me dead to the world on Wednesday. Friday they would win the Stanley Cup 2-1 in game 7 and it was time to celebrate. I had every intention on keeping BlackOps in the cellar but this is what craft beer is about. Celebration. I had every desire of releasing this yesterday but Mother Nature tried to wipe Pittsburgh off the map with tornadoes, floods and everything else up her sleeve. The spoon residence has been dealt the flood hand before and its never easy. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you whom suffered loss.

Brooklyn Black Ops
brewery: Brooklyn Brewing – www.brooklynbrewery.com
style: Russian Imperial Stout
abv: 10.7%
serving size: 750ml
glass used: snifter
price: $27

Overview
Brooklyn Black Ops (2008 commercially available version) was aged for four months in bourbon barrels, bottled flat, and re-fermented in the bottle with Champagne yeast. 940 cases produced.

What I think
I admit that spending $27 on a single bottle of beer is steep but when it’s a reputable brewery sometimes it’s worth taking a risk. This one is such a beverage. The head poured a perfect 2 finger giving the sweet aroma of vanilla with slight coffee and bourbon. The taste was a mouthful of excellence. Started with coffee and slight chocolate then moved to a mild bourbon and finishes malty smooth. Honestly it felt like the ultimate milkshake. A 5 dollar milkshake . under the circumstances this was the best way to celebrate the Pens winning the Stanley Cup. Honestly, if you have a bottle of this I say sit on it a year because time aging will make this one of the greatest RIS ever!

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+

I have 2 6-packs of this aging in my basement. This time I had it fresh from the tap at Mad Mex in Cranberry.

Great Lakes Blackout Stout
brewery: Great Lakes – greatlakesbrewing.com
beer webpage: http://www.greatlakesbrewing.com/beerProfile.php?beer_id=00000010
style: Russian Imperial Stout
abv: 9%
glass used: snifter
awards: Gold Medal, 2008 World Beer Cup | Gold Medal, 2006 World Beer Championships | Gold Medal, 2006 World Beer Cup | Gold Medal, 2003 World Beer Championships | Gold Medal, 2003 World Beer Championships (as Emmett’s Imperial Stout) | Silver Medal, 1996 World Beer Championships (as Emmett’s Imperial Stout)
price: $6

Overview
Named after the infamous “Blackout of 2003″ that left the northeastern United States in complete darkness, but resulted in old-fashioned neighborhood porch parties and down-home fun.

What I think
Since I wasn’t the one who poured this I can’t tell you what that was like but when it arrived there was beer porn in my presence.  Aroma was slight chocolate, stronger on the coffee and that first drink was deep, thick, and rich deliciousness in the form of chocolate with a hint of vanilla. This was velvety on the palate and finished smoother than Billy Dee Williams.

Spoon’s rating: A

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-

As you can see from the picture above I had some fun with this week’s selection. I’m always up for cooking with beer and since this past Sunday was Mother’s Day I figured it was my best chance to show mom the versatility of beer. Thanks to Tim at The Size of Life for sending me this bottle. It’s not available in PA so I let out an extra “squeeee”. Yes, you read that correctly.

The photo gallery of Mother’s Day Dinner I made with Stone can be found here.

Stone Brewing Cali-Belgique IPA
brewery: Stone Brewing - stonebrew.com
beer webpage: http://www.stonebrew.com/cali/index.php
style: Belgian IPA
abv: 6.9%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: snifter
price: n/a

Overview
When reading the name “Stone Cali-Belgique IPA”, “Cali” hints that it is a California style IPA, and this brew has an undeniable Belgian influence, indicated by the word “Belgique” (which is how Belgium’s French-speaking population says the word “Belgian”; the Dutch speaking Belgians say “Belgie”). We carefully selected a Belgian yeast strain that illuminates a fascinating new aspect of the beer that is otherwise quite simply Stone IPA.

The result is both completely new and different, while still being recognizable as a Stone Brew – and Stone IPA in particular. Think of it as an otherwise identical twin to Stone IPA that was raised in a Belgian culture. Literally.

What I think
Based on looks alone this poured like a typical Belgian instead of an IPA. The hue was hazy yellow but a creamy beaut of a head. The aroma was strong with hops, floral and spices. At this point IPA wasn’t even on the radar for me which was starting to be a concern knowing Stone’s history for brewing a muscular IPA. The taste caught me off guard.  Piny, fruity, sweet then hoppy and finished not as bitter as I was anticipating. To say it was complex is putting it lightly and why I stress that you can’t appreciate a beer in a 6oz sample.

Spoon’s rating: B

I’m sharing the spotlight this week. Please welcome to the stage fellow Yinz Team softball all star, Uncle Crappy. Crappy stood out at Podcamp Pittsburgh 2 during our SIDT/WMS session on grassroots podcasting as the only person to applaud and cheer as if the Stanley Cup was brought into the room. We broke his heart shortly afterward when he found out there wasn’t any free beer.

UC is a die hard Ohio State fan, fellow craft beer enthusiast, a great friend and helluva model American. If you see one of us at a craft beer festival there is a good chance the other isn’t far behind. You can follow Uncle Crappy on his blog at unclecrappy.com

Guinness 250th Anniversary Stout
brewery: St. James Gate - guinness.com
style: Irish Dry Stout
abv: 5%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: Spoon said “I used a Guinness pint glass that mysteriously appeared one night after a trip to Mad Mex.” Uncle Crappy sighed “I don’t know what the hell it’s called; Mrs. Crappy picked it up at Penn when we thought the place was closing down. It’s a pretty good approximation of an imperial pint glass, though.”
price: Spoon paid $3.25 at 3 Sons Dogs and Suds in Wexford, PA. Uncle Crappy paid $10 for the six. God bless the State of Ohio. Purchased at the Andersons general store, Dublin, Ohio. If you’re in Columbus and you’re thirsty, this is the first place you should stop.

What Uncle Crappy thinks

I’m a Guinness fan. Yeah, I know — it’s sort of like the Irish Budweiser, but it’s always a reliable choice when the pickings are slim. And you can’t beat the history; I mean, it’s been around for, like, 250 years or something.
Oh. Right. The name.

I knew I wanted to bring some home from our last trip to Columbus, and I was pleased to see it was pretty easy to find. I sat down with a couple bottles the other night; here’s what I came up with.

You see a difference right away. The 250 is carbonated differently than the nitrogen carbonation Guinness uses for the draught bottles or cans we have here, and it shows. You don’t see that beautiful cascade; you get something closer to a traditional beer pour with this one, setting up a half-inch head that dissipated pretty quickly. The aroma is also a bit different; the roasted malts are more prominent than in the Guinness I’m accustomed to.

That carries over to the taste, as well. Roasted coffee is right up front, followed by a hints of bread and, uh, not much else. My biggest gripe, though, is the mouthfeel; the more traditional carbonation naturally leads to a more traditional kind of feel; it’s not bad, but I really missed the silky Guinness texture.

Don’t get me wrong — this isn’t a bad beer. But if you’ve had a bottle of Guinness Extra Stout, you already have a pretty good idea of what the 250 is all about, and I was hoping for a little more.

Uncle Crappy’s rating: C+

What spoon thinks

This isn’t your typical Guinness so before you open it remember that not all are created equal. The pour was disappointing as the head was weak and vanished fast. I looked at it for a second and though “this looks like really cheap root beer from Aldi.” The aroma and taste, it turned out, was better than the appearance. I could smell a roasted coffee in the glass and the taste followed suit with a dry finish. I found it kinda light and watery as it seriously lacked body. That was it? That was what Guinness wasted a 250th anniversary on? Serious let down but better than some I’ve had.

This is a dry stout and lives up to the style but isn’t anything special besides a name.

Spoon’s rating: C-

I wasn’t aware that this was available in PA until I stopped by 3 Sons today with Teaspoon. Oskar Blues is the only craft beer company that, in my opinion, have been able to master the can. Time to see if this lives up to the name.

Oskar Blues Mama’s Little Yella Pils
brewery: Oskar Blues - oskarblues.com
style: pilsner
abv: 5.3%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pilsner
price: $2.75

Overview
Our new canned good is a delicious, small-batch version of the beer that made Pilsen, Czechoslovakia famous. Mama’s is made with hearty amounts of pale malt, German specialty malts, and traditional (Saaz) and 21st century Bavarian hops. It’s the perfect antidote for the watered-down, cornfed versions of pilsner clogging America’s shelves. Our first canned lager, it’s also fermented at cool temperatures with a German yeast. While it’s rich with Czeched-out flavor, Mama’s gentle hopping (about 35 IBUs) and low ABV (just 5.3%) makes it a luxurious but low-dose beer. Look for our Gold Metal Winner on US shelves in March. Sadly, the Feds rejected our “Take Two and Call Us in the Morning” line on the can.

What I think

First thought that came to mind was Miller Lite’s more experienced brother. The aroma and initial taste was that of ML (which if I’m going macro, I drink) which is grassy/hay-like but the flavor is much more mature.  The pour was bubbly white head and the body was the color of gold we think of as kids and in cartoons. Crayola needs to work on this. If you’re staring out on pilsners this is the way to go. The taste was sharp, malty and like the aroma, slight hay, but in a good way. The finish is a tad bitter and hoppy.

I think I found my new summer session beer while watching some baseball or sitting on my back porch.

Spoon’s rating: B

When I started drinking craft beers on a regular basis for our show Shipwreck Porter was my first ever “WOW” beer. In fact their owner Tim Suprise was the first major brewery owner I had ever met back in 06.  This is the 2007 vintage that was aged when I picked it up at Fat Heads. Rumors of Arcadia’s demise in the Pittsburgh area has been great exaggerated.

Arcadia Brewing Shipwreck Porter
brewery: Arcadia Brewing Company – arcadiaales.com
style: Baltic Porter
abv: 12%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: Sam Adams Perfect Beer glass
awards: 2007 Winner, 1st Place, Chicago Beer Society
price: $10

Overview
Nothing like a 10-year-old Bourbon to add dimension to a beer!  This Baltic-style Porter has a robust, roasted malt emphasis that is nicely balanced by a slightly herbal hop bitterness.  Aged for 6 months in 10-year-old Kentucky Bourbon barrels, Shipwreck Porter is a tasty and tasteful combination of  brilliant flavors.  Bourbon adds notes of earth, vanilla, brown sugar and spice, while the barrels contribute mild, oaky tones.  Cocoa and coffee notes co-mingle with toasty, malty flavors and a lingering alcohol warmth.

This is a BIG beer.  Lots of alcohol and lots of flavor mean this brew can cellar for years.  Our Shipwreck Porter is delicious on its own or with a nice cigar, but also brilliant with many foods or as a digestif.

Recommended Foods:  Earthy Cheese such as Camembert, BBQ, Chocolate-Bourbon Cake

What I think
Aging a beer in my house is a rare thing and I only started recently. Mostly due to the fact beer never lasts that long in my house but with Teaspoon my beverage time is next to none. When I stopped at Fat Head’s and found a bottle of 07 I knew I was in for a treat.

My main concern was that the already present bourbon would be strong enough to take lead paint off my 1970′s Matchbox cars and probably run a truck. I’m glad to report I was wrong. In fact it mellowed enough over the 18 months that I was taken to a new land of craft beer bliss.  The head still poured a caramel tone and hung around for a few minutes. The aroma was bourbon, oak and malty. Shipwreck carried a medium body and finished with a malty bourbon slide. Unfortunately Fat Heads had the bottles in the cooler only so I’m hesitant to pick one up and store it in the beer cellar. Anyone have advice on this?

Spoon’s rating: A

I picked up this bottle also at D’s 6pk Shop in Regent Square. Unfortunately there was no price on the bottle or shelf (that’s common in the beer cave) and was part of a special on mixed 6packs.

Never heard of it but they carried the full series so I figured why not.

Left Coast Brewing Black Magic Stout
brewery: Left Coast Brewing Company – leftcoastbrewing.com
style: American Stout
abv: 6.7%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint
awards: Silver Medal Winner 2007 San Diego County Fair | Gold medal Winner 2007 LA County Fair | Gold Medal Winner 2007 California State Fair.
price: no idea, price tags are apparently tough to come by these days

Overview
Simply a stronger version of a traditional Dry Irish Stout. It is a full bodied, dark brew that is rich and malty with plenty of roasted barley character. This hearty stout is layered with flavors of roasted barley, chocolate, and coffee.

What I think
I don’t normally go for non-imperial bottles that have collected dust but something spoke to me about this bottle. Basically I was thirsty and needed something to complete the 6pk.

The pour was average and the head was a light tan but astonishingly the nose was that of stale chocolate or old coffee beans. To my surprise this would be a  palatable adventure. Malty in the front and coffee in the back but yet for a thin bodied stout this was resting quite peacefully on my palate. I started to pick up notes of dark roasted beans and a Hershey’s syrup favored chocolate. I really want to give this beer an “A” but the aroma was a huge turnoff for me.

Spoon’s rating: B+

I missed posting last week since Teaspoon is officially home with us now and as you can expect things have been hectic. I picked up this bottle at D’s 6pk Shop in Regent Square. Unfortunately there was no price on the bottle or shelf (that’s common in the beer cave) and was part of a special on mixed 6packs.

Founders have finally arrived in Pennsylvania and have made a huge splash as one of the most sought after brewers of the year now available in the commonwealth.

Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout
brewery: Founders Brewing Company – foundersbrewing.com
style: Imperial American Stout
abv: 10%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint (snifter ran away. please come home)
price: $6.00

Overview
A bit of backwoods pleasure without the banjo. This stout is brewed with a hint of coffee and vanilla then aged in oak bourbon barrels. Our process ensures that strong bourbon undertones come through in the finish in every batch we brew. We recommend decanting at room temperature and best enjoyed in a brandy snifter.

What I think
I can say that since the start of this blog I’ve now reached beervana twice. KBS is in my top 5 of best beers ever. I was able to get KBS to appropriate room temp but my snifter is missing so I had to settle on a pint glass. Even with different glassware this was a fantastic experience. There was about a medium sized head on the pour but that was my fault. Instantly I was picking up strong coffee. I’m not a coffee drinker but I love the smell. The pour wasn’t as thick and dark as motor oil but a coffeehouse dark blend.

Now the taste. Oh sweet Jesus the taste. Someone new to craft beers would never believe this is a beer. A delightful balance of coffee, chocolate, vanilla and malt that took me back to my coffeehouse days of the early-mid 90′s while sporting my grunge swag. The mouth feel smooth and creamy but not overpowering. Each savor you pick up something new. It’s like the chewing gum from Willy Wonka without the need for de-juicing. Started with coffee, picked up some vanilla, then a bit chocolate and finished with malty goodness. Have I mentioned this is aged in bourbon barrels?  Oh yeah. the final treat is the grand finale of bourbon wood.

If you’re going to win over the beer downers in your circle of friends this is what you want to serve them. Although, you give them the best off the bat and they’ll expect it from every brewery. Give them a sample and taunt them forever.

Spoon’s rating: A+

My first review back after teaspoon’s arrival so I thought that since non-Irish people are wrapping up pretending to be a nationality that I would actually celebrate part of mine, the Polish side.

Okocim Beer
brewery: Browar Okocim S.A. - www.okocim.pl
style: Pilsner
abv: 5.5%
serving size: 500ml (16.9oz)
glass used: pilsner
price: $3.50

Overview
Purchased at 3 Sons Dogs n Suds. Since I can’t translate Polish that’s about all you’re getting.

What I think
I’m slowly converting over to a Pilsner fan and this reinforces it. The head poured robust but disappeared rather quickly. The aroma was a typical pils where those unfamiliar would think it was stale beer. The taste was smoother than Billy Dee Williams’ moves on some fine ladies. One thing that really impressed me was the potential for beer porn if I had a better camera. Pristine golden hue and ivory white head makes this a photographers ideal candidate.

Spoon’s rating: B+

When Bar Louie in Cranberry opened I avoided it like the plague. Figured it was like the other locations around town and was nothing more than an overpriced martini bar. One night I broke down and gave it a shot since I was parched. With that came the discovery of…

Troubadour Obscura
brewery: Brouwerij De Musketiers – troubadourbieren.be
style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale
abv: 8.5%
serving size: 10 oz draft
glass used: goblet
price: $3.00 (Happy Hour price)

Overview
Troubadour Obscura is a dark red beer with 8,5 % alc. and refermentation in the bottle. Poured in the special glass, Troubadour has a nice creamy foam head and a malty character with a nice little roasty flavor. Troubadour Obscura has a mild bitterness, which is a bit stronger in the aftertaste and a mainly malty aroma. The smell of roasted, burned wood is completed by a light chocolate touch. Troubadour is produced with 4 different types of malt, hops, yeast and water.

What I think
Happy Hour is always the best time to try new beers and if you’re in Cranberry Township, Bar Louie is a must. My history shows that I haven’t had good experiences with Belgian Strong Dark Ale’s but honestly I couldn’t read the tap handle and figured wtf, why not.

The bartender pouring didn’t give the pour much head but thankfully the glass wasn’t frosted so I could see the nice dark amber body. The aroma was tempting with a mild mix of fruits and spices. The taste was interesting. The second glass I had was a bit stronger. There was more malt with chocolate tones to it and I was loving it. The body was about medium with very little carbonation and a 100% smooth finish. This that night Troubadour is all I drink there now.

Spoon’s rating: A

I know that Groundhog Day was 16 days ago but the shipment of this traditional lager was delayed getting to my area. The first time I had this was in roughly 2001 and was hands down the worst beer I ever drank. 8 years later it’s time for a revisit.

Ground Hog Brew
brewery: Straub Brewing – straubbeer.com
style: Lite American Lager
abv: 3.16%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $2.75

Overview
Distributed once a year in honor of Punxsutawney Phil, beloved groundhog of Pennsylvania, and Groundhog Day. Straub Brewery is a short 60 minute drive north east-ish of Punxy.

What I think
I admit, I went into this expecting the worse and came out pleasantly surprised. I say this because the last time I drank one of these it tasted like… OK grab a handful of old pennies.Not shiny ones but the pennies you find in your junk drawer and turning green. Now shove them in your mouth.  That is what the original Ground Hog Brew tasted like.

Truth is, this is Straub Light with a special label and honestly it’s not THAT bad. Straub gets a lot of slack around my area for being “your dad’s beer”. Light body, tasteless and fizzy. Kinda like Miller Lite and Bud but without the hookers in bikinis. Sometimes in life you need that. I actually enjoyed this beer knowing the style. Granted the head dissipated within 15 seconds and the aroma could be classified as stale beer but the taste had improved.

Everyone has a “go to” beer that takes them back to their roots. If a beer snob denies this, they’re lying. There’s always one and for me it’s Beast Ice. Locally it’s Iron City or IC Light. You need that beer as a reminder of where you came from. You could go out and buy a Straub Light but honestly,  this is for the novelty. I would like to get a collection of each year but would I ever drink them? Oh hell no. Try opening a can of any macro that’s been sitting for more than 120 days.  Bottle does look cool though

Spoon’s rating: C-

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+

This is the second of the 2 imperial stouts that are new to the area from VooDoo Brewing. If you ever get the chance to try Matt’s line of beers I highly suggest it.

Big Black VooDoo Daddy
brewery: VooDoo Brewing – voodoobrewery.com
style: Imperial Stout
abv: 12.5%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint
price: $9.00

Overview
This Is our Imperial Stout that we age in conditioning tanks with oak staves. This adds a classic character of old world aging with out the Bourbon tones. This black ale is about 12% alc. and very rich in roasted and chocolate malt tones. Velvety smooth and able to be aged for years.

What I think
After last week’s slight disappointment I was really looking for a saving grace and with the results in, I found it. The body was very similar to that of the Black Magick but instead of a nose full of alcohol there was slight chocolate and a medium amount of coffee and bourbon. With each drink take a deep breath and capture the goodness of the aroma. I’m finding a nice coffee taste lingering on my palate without the nasty film that comes with drinking coffee (I get my jabs in when I can). Each drink I’m getting a smooth up front flavor and a mild chocolate coffee finish. Oh yeah, redemption has been found. In fact it’s safe to say this is my new fav imperial stout. Matt, you nailed it on this one.

Spoon’s rating: A

VooDoo Black Magick
brewery: VooDoo Brewing – voodoobrewery.com
style: Imperial Stout
abv: 15.5%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pint
price: $11.00

Overview
This is an Imperial Stout that is of great strength and complexity. We then gently age that beer in Elaigh Craig 13 1/2 year old Bourbon Barrels for 6 months to 1 yr. and then primed and bottled to bottle condition for continued aging and cellar life. Black Magick should be able to be aged up to about 5 years, to heighten the complexity and smooth nature of this beer.

What I think
Right off the bat all I could smell was alcohol and not in a good way. It poured the blackest I’ve seen a beer in quite some time. This would be a rare case where my family is right saying a dark beer is strong. In fact I think this has more aroma kick than the Weyerbacher XIII. There was a thin cocoa colored head on the pour as I kept staring at it wondering if I’d be sucked into my beloved Foundry Ale Works pint glass.

The bourbon taste I expected was actually stronger than anticipated. Reminded me of the first time I had a Shipwreck Porter. It was a punch in the teeth of bourbon.  Once I got past the strong alcohol tones I my palate went into spaz mode of the delicious chocolate malt back end. Unfortunately the alcohol came back and I had a hard time getting this out of my mouth.

This would have been a B+ or A- easy if it wasn’t for strong alcohol taste I kept getting. Tone it down a bit and I think it would be one of the best imperial stouts ever made. At $11 a bottle I would only suggest it once though I may have to buy one to age for a year or 2.

Spoon’s rating: C+

This beer is going to confuse the hell out of people who think that all beers are yellow and fizzy because the word “Ale” is at the end. You know that Genny is what comes to mind.  Time for an education.

Stoudts Winter Ale
brewery: Stoudts – www.stoudtsbeer.com
beer website: Winter Ale
style: American Porter
abv: 5.5%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: plastic
price: $2.50

Overview
The website doesn’t have jack about this. Boo on brewery websites who have next to nothing about their beers. I threw out the bottle thinking I could get it off the website. After some digging around on the interwebz I found “ This medium to full bodied ale is a deep brown color with notes of chocolate and nut flavors. It has a subtle hop bitterness and chocolaty aroma. This is the perfect holiday beer for the season.”

What I think
The only thing that could have possibly saved this beer would be to have drank it from the Sam Adams ultimate beer glass which seems to save the soul of many beers. No need for how the head was or it’s body because come on, it was a plastic cup. I really need to get my own glass at 3 Sons for moments like this.

I had very little nose on this but did eventually get a slight aroma of coffee and sweetness of some malt. I’m not a coffee drinker so I can’t tell you any type of coffee besides black greasy spoon diner coffee. The initial taste was minimal on coffee and a bit chocolate but after that went downhill dull faster than an OJ trial. It felt flat on the palate and was making for a rough time to finish but alas I’m a trooper for you. I’ve had dry porters before and this wasn’t it. Overall a bad experience but not worthy of a “D”. I’ll need to revisit sometime soon because something just wasn’t right.

Spoon’s rating: C-

Victory St. Victorious
brewery: Victory Brewing – www.victorybeer.com
beer website: St Victorious
style: Doppelbock
abv: 7.6%
serving size: 16oz
glass used: pint
price: $2.50

Overview
From the tradition started by the monks of St. Francis of Paula in 1634 comes this warming beer of rich heritage. A dark, rich lager of sublime complexity and character, St. Victorious is created from multiple German malts. Laborious decoction mashing yields the choicest elements of the malt. Long, cold aging mellows the strong temperament of this subtle beer. Celebrate the end of winter with a warming draft of St. Victorious Doppelbock!

What I think
I would go on record as saying that the best dopplebock/double bock I have ever had is the Troegenator from Troegs Brewing. That is until tonight. I didn’t pour this so I can’t fairly judge the head but coming from the tap in front of me it poured like heaven. Mad Mex is a dimly lit Mexican restaurant (with a kickass beer menu) so I can’t say how the body looked but I can tell you how it tasted. Sweet Jesus malt but not overly sweet. Sweetness did hang around slightly for an aftertaste but didn’t leave me smacking my lips and trying to get a film off my tongue. For the alcohol in this it’s balanced perfectly and in fact, after 3 I was feeling good and wanted more. I may have found a replacement for the Troegenator. Once again a beer from Pennsylvania that rocks my palate!

Spoon’s rating: A

I decided to be a nice beer guy and share this with my family last night when we celebrated the holiday at my brother’s house. I come from a family of “if it’s dark, it’s strong” and “why cant you drink normal beer like Bud”. I was on a mission to expand some minds and educate.

Southern Tier Choklat
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Imperial Chocolate Stout
abv: 11%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: pint
price: $12

Overview
The Popol Vuh, the sacred book of the Maya, unfolds a complex web of mystery around a beverage known as xocoatl (ch-co-atle). At Southern Tier, we’re not surprised that hieroglyphs of the ancient Maya depict chocolate being poured for rulers and gods. Even through the many voyages of Columbus, the mystical bean remained nothing more than a strange currency of the native peoples.

Moving through centuries, the circular journey of cacao has been realized in our brewing house, encompassing the complexity of the darkest, bitter-sweet candy together with the original frothy cold beverage of the ancient Maya to bring to you our Blackwater Series Choklat Stout. We have combined the finest ingredients to tempt your senses & renew the power & interrelation of history in every bottle.

What I think
This is “liquid brownie in a bottle” as I like to call it. The aroma is incredible. Bountiful amount of chocolate, chocolate and oh yeah chocolate. Remember the scratch-n-sniff stickers from the 80′s of the Hot Chocolate or walking through Hershey, PA? See where I’m going with it? Even my family said “Is that chocolate? This can’t be beer!”

My brother was the one who poured so there wasn’t much head (I need to teach him the art). It pours darker than a black hole and will suck you in with it’s medium body and chocolate blanket that blankets your palate. This is heaven in a glass.

I’m not a fan of sweets and very rarely eat anything along the lines of candy but Choklat is fantastic. This is the best chocolate beer you will ever drink. You know that feeling when everything in the world seems perfect at that moment? This will take you there and give a beergasm.

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

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a fan of the Pilsner style. I’ve had some extremely bad beer in this style and it probably goes back to swill I drank as a lad. Wait, that was Golden Anniversary from my parents basement. If I’m going to review the style I might as well go for the best.

• Details Magazine – One of Ten Best Summer Beers (June/July 2006)
• Men’s Journal – Top Lager Worldwide (July 2005)
• Grand Champion Pilsner: United States Beer Tasting Championships 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Prima Pils
brewery: Victory Brewing – www.victory.com
beer website: Prima Pils
style: Pilsner
abv: 5.3%
serving size: 12oz
glass used: pilsner
price: $32/case, $3.00 bottle

Overview
Heaps of hops give this pale lager a bracing, herbal bite over layers of soft and smooth malt flavor. This refreshing combination of tastes makes Prima a classy quencher in the tradition of the great pilsners of Europe. Dry and delightful, this is an elegant beer.

What I think
If you’re new to craft beer you will see this and think “hey, that looks like my Bud/Coors/Miller”. Unlike those, this has character and doesn’t need to be served ice cold to hide its flavor. Pours a gorgeous golden body with a robust white head. If you’re trying a pilsner for the first time you may think it’s a tad stale tasting. After consulting the world renown beer filmmaker, foodie rockstar and home brewing expert Phil, this is from the character of the German and Czech whole flowers hops. Prima Pils has a medium body and a crips clean finish. New to Pilsners? Start here.

If you’re looking to start out shooting beer porn, this is a must for your list. Very photogenic.

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 this arrived at 3 Sons Dogs & Suds I swear that every regular that I talk to told/emailed me that this was a must buy. Gotta love communication like that! I love most Southern Tier products so I was really excited to see something new on the shelf. Wait till you read the story behind the name!

Southern Tier Krampus
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Munich Helles Lager
abv: 9%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: sniffer

Overview
Here’s the story from the Southern Tier website
St. Nicholas, aka Santa Claus, is a magical figure, the bringer of gifts and an icon of holiday spirit. Forgotten by most is his evil side kick and enforcer of ‘the list’. European tradition says while St. Nick is busy delivering presents to good little boys and girls, Krampus hands out punishments to the bad. A fanged, goat-horned bully, the Christmas Devil uses sticks and chains to beat the naughty children.

That has to be one of the best stories ever for inspiring a craft beer. Just wait till I have kids and share this one!

What I think
Before I dove into craft beers I never thought much about glassware. Using a sniffer is key in this one because the nose you’ll get will make a hop head moan. After the initial pour there was an ivory white head resting on top of an amazing copper body. This is pure beer porn and the first drink was just as amazing. The hops are settling on my palate like a mild blanket meanwhile the malts coat the roof of my mouth making me crave for more. If you’re a lacing junkie make sure you take your time to savor the beer before geeking out at the drapes of goodness.

This is a great way to bring in the holiday season on a cold snowy tonight kinda like what I have right now. I’m feeling all warm inside.

Spoon’s rating: A-