Holiday Belgian Strong Brown Ale by Avila Ales

November 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Akemi Homura, Avila Ales, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Cinnamon, Holiday Ale, Holiday Belgian Strong Brown Ale, Madoka Magica, Mr & Mrs. Richard Avila, Oak, star anise | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Holiday Belgian Strong Brown Ale by Avila Ales is a ??% ABV Belgian Strong Brown Ale brewed with Oak chips, Cinnamon Sticks, allspice and Star Anise.

==Introduction==
My friends Richard and Megan Avila have been busy brewing some very awesome magic potions. In September, they visited King Harbor brewing in Redondo Beach which were able to donate their equipment for my friend Richard to create a 5 gallon bucket of just Brown Ale wort. While there were many there, many would take their buckets home and customize their own recipe even further. Richard and Meg decided to go with a Belgian yeast strain for this brew. As the weeks passed, they added oak chips, cinnamon sticks, all spice and star anise to fermenting bucket which then after close to 2 months, this Belgian goodie was born. They were awesomely kind to donate some of their beer to me to do a review. One thing to note, while there may have not been a last gravity check to verify the alcohol by volume, this beer was definitely strong, complex and yet, smooth and easy to drink. A conundrum yet a masterpiece of a Holiday Ale for sure. One day, they plan to open their own business to get these awesome creations rolling and hopefully, with my reviews here, you may be enticed to try them. Cheers.

Aromas:
Mint chocolate, anise, bananas, clove spice, molasses, vanilla, oak, campfire hints, rock candy, brown sugar, coffee hints, dark fruit raisins, cherry hints, milk sugar, candi sugar, flan hints, cinnamon, ginger spice, all spice fruit cake and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Banana, clove spice, anise, molasses, Dark fruit raisins, mild prune notes, cherries currants, oatmeal cookies, coffee hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, oak, marshmallow smore hints, hints of maple, piloncillo hints, milk sugar, toasted coconut hint, biscuit bread, mint chocolate chip, honey, nutmeg, fruit cake notes, pecan pie notes, cinnamon, ginger spice, all spice, vanilla, caramel, rock candy, candi sugar, brown sugar and some flan hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, oatmeal cookies, anise, banana hints, clove spice, dark fruit and earthy notes linger. No alcohol in the taste, drinks way too easy yet you can tell this is strong, Pitch black brown body and a creamy.

Overall:
A perfect holiday ale ranging from a lot of sweet complex flavors with the oak bittering out the sweetness. This is a “drink and sit by the fire place” beer. My friends really nailed this one for sure. The complexity and sweetness is reminiscent of some of the best Belgian beers out there. The addition of the oak, cinnamon, allspice and Anise gives it an additional level of depth that quite possibly is what is responsible for making this one smooth as well although I can only assume at this point. I hope they brew this one again as it was the best beer yet!

Anime Corner:
Akemi Homura in Akuma form from Madoka Magica was used in this pairing because I wanted to show case several aspects about this beer including ingredients, flavors, strength and complexity. The abbey like monastery used as the background in this pairing goes well with the style of the beer and the brown colors making this a Belgian brown. The fact that she looks sweet and innocent goes with the smoothness and rich complexity of the beer. The fact that she is in Akuma form or Demon form represents the unknown aspect of the ABV. The fact that drinks super well but it is dangerous since you do feel it after just a little goes to show how truly powerful this beer is. Also, the colors represent the beers flavors and to some extent the added ingredients which gave this beer perfection.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/eY0bhFA.png

Barrel Aged Narwhal by Sierra Nevada

November 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barrel Aged Narwhal, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Jedi of the Sea, Kentucky Bourbon, Narwhal, Russian Imperial Stout, Selvaria Bles, Sierra Nevada Brewing, Valkyria Chronicles, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Barrel Aged Narwhal by Sierra Nevada is a 12.9%%ABV World Class Russian Imperial Stout aged in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels.
Label:

Barrel-Aged Narwhal is our deliciously dark Imperial Stout aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels. Barrel aging is a strange science; it mellows some characteristics of the original beer while intensifying others. Narwhal’s aggressive roastiness has calmed, but the rich, chocolate-like malt backbone is brought to the fore. Black as midnight, this intense stout is complex with notes of cocoa and espresso balanced with hints of vanilla and toasted coconut from the oak casks. Nearly as rare as it’s nautical namesake, try Barrel-Aged Narwhal while you can because like the creature itself, it will soon dive into the depths and leave nary a trace behind.

==Introduction==
The Jedi of the Sea has returned to save the beer world of whalez. Well, this one is a pretty elusive and will be more so as time goes on. Released in very limited quantities, this one is already a sought for item as the original beer was a major success for Sierra Nevada and is definitely one of the best Russian Imperial Stouts out there. It is my hope that this beer does turn out to be the hype it deserves otherwise, it might as well just get lost in the sea of beers altogether. Let’s take a look at this rare opportunity to learn more about this beast in nature… Cheers!

Aromas:

Lots of bourbon oak forward, toasted coconut, espresso coffee, mocha, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, vanilla, whiskey bourbon, rye bread, whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate smores, Khalua, smokey hints, dark fruit currants, prunes, raisins, figs, flan, brown sugar, banana hints, pecan pie, hazelnut, minty hints and molasses.

Flavors:

Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, chocolate abuelita hints, vanilla, oak bourbon, flan, sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche caramel, roasted coffee notes, espresso notes, Khalua, mild smokey oak, dark fruit prunes, currants, raisins, mild cherries, figs, mocha, toasted coconut, marshmallow cream, chocolate smores, graham crackers, molasses, anise, mint, rum hints, whiskey, port wine hints, rye bread, leather, tobacco, whipped cream, brown sugar, Irish cream, bananas, pecan pie and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:

Marshmallow cream, oak, leather, caramel, chocolate,coconut, bourbon, earthy notes, rye bread and vanilla with an almost dry finish. No alcohol in the taste, silky and creamy mouthfeel, drinks easy despite the ABV and pitch black motor oil full body.

Overall:

The Jedi of the sea struck with a hard vengeance brought forth from learning its way in the dark side. Now accepting its darkness, it can now deliver you into a sweet world of awesome. This beer is similar to the Barrel Aged Old Rasputin except this one has more barrel, dark chocolate, roasty coffee and coconut flavors forward along with the complexities I was able to explained as I tried dissecting this one. This is one of the best Russian Imperial Stouts out there but next to Darkness, well that’s just another dimension. Still, a whale by name enters its glory into fame when it comes down to the most coveted beers to claim. Highly recommended and possibly their best beer ever!

Anime Corner:

Selvaria Bles from Valkyria Chronicles was used in this pairing since I wanted to show someone that would be similar in color even to a Narwhal as well as a general or captain of a ship. In the original Narwhal, I showed a captain of a ship with a map basically looking for the legendary beast. Here now we can see the similar map and as Selvaria dashes into the adventure, it represents her in search of the beast. You can also see that her armor, shield and sword look similar to the Narwhal, not to say she killed one, but maybe, since it is a part of her and changes shapes, it is almost as if she is the very beast she searches for and doesn’t even know it. As you can see her in the bathing suit, this pairs well with the colors of the label as well but also represents the smoothness and silky aspect of the beer as it was barrel-aged afterall. Plain and simple, she is Jedi of the Sea, she is the Narwhal!

Sources:

http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/238/1046597-selvaria_bles.jpg
http://keywithoutatone.deviantart.com/art/Selvaria-Bles-283643503
http://idnar.deviantart.com/art/Selvaria-Bles-203546525

Firestone XVIII Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

November 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 18th Anniversary Ale, aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, anniversary ale, Asuka, Asuka Langley, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Barleywine, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, black ipa, Bourbon Barrel Aged, DIPA, Double India Pale Ale, double jack, English Barleywine, Firestone Walker, Firestone XVIII, FLCL, Fooly Cooly, Haruko Haruhara, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Oatmeal Stout, Ol' Leghorn, Parabola, Rei Ayanami, Russian Imperial Stout, Stickee Monkee, Three Floyds, Velvet Merkin, Wookey Jack, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Firestone XVIII Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker is a 13% ABV World Class Strong Multi-liquor Barrel Aged Style Hybrid Blend Ale.

Description: (Please Click On The Strategy Guide/Letter From Firestone Walker)

38% Parabola (bourbon barrel aged Russiant imperial stout),
16% Helldorado (bourbon and brandy barrel aged blond barleywine),
16% Bravo (bourbon and brandy barrel aged brown ale),
14% Stickee Monkey (bourbon and brandy barrel aged quad),
5% Velvet Merkin (bourbon barrel aged oatmeal stout),
4% Hydra Cuvée (a blend too much of a mouthful to describe here),
3% Wookey Jack (black IPA),
2% Ol’ Leghorn (English barleywine, collaboration with Three Floyds, aged in fresh barrels),
2% Double Jack (Double IPA)

==Introduction==

It has been an awesome year for Firestone Walker beers and with the release of their 18th one, they add some new beers into their final blend. As with every year, this one comes with the strategy guide to basically see if you can figure out what’s what. While this is a difficult task, I try to write down as much as I can and see what new flavors this one is composed of versus the previous releases. It really does not matter sometimes as they have all beer exceptionally world class beers. Yes, don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich oak, vanilla, flan, bourbon, maple syrup, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgium chocolate, German chocolate, ferrero rocher chocolate, toasted coconut, almond joy, dulce de leche caramel, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, oreo cookies, cookies and cream, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough, cocada coconut candy, pilloncillo sugar cone, choco flan, dark fruits like currants, raisins, prunes, raspberry, cherries, currants, blackberries, capirotada raisin bread pudding, anise, molasses, brownies, brown sugar, bananas, clove spice hints, mocha, tres leches/three milks cake, dragon fruit, tangerine, pineapple hints and more!

Flavors:
Very strong oak barrel forward character, rich vanilla, bourbon, toasted coconut, almond joy, dulce de leche caramel, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgium chocolate, German chocolate, ferrero rocher chocolate, pralines, cookies and cream, oreo cookies, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough, flan, cinnamon hints, brown sugar, hazelnut, macademia nuts, cocada coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, dragon fruit, mango hints, pineapple hints, sweetened condensed milk, port wine, maple syrup, dark fruit currants, raisins, prunes, raspberry, cherries, currants, blackberries, capirotada raisin bread pudding, anise, molasses, brownies, brown sugar, bananas, clove spice hints, leather, tobacco, waffle cone, peaches and cream, pecan pie, candi sugars, rock candy, choco flan, espresso, mocha, toffee, tres leches/three milks cake, tangerine and more!

Aftertaste:
Port wine, dark chocolate, maple syrup, dark fruits, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal and oreo cookies, oak, vanilla, coconut, mango, chocolate chips and marshmallow smores with earthy hop notes finish at the end. No alcohol in the taste, Smooth and silky mouthfeel, dangerously easy to drink but should be handled as a sipper and crimson yet pitch black body.

Overall:
Exceptionally great. Each release more awesome than the last. I really think this one is the best one by far. If aged, it will will definitely do wonders I am sure. This one seems to have richer flavors which I am sure were due to the addition of the Three Floyds collab and the Hydra Cuvee as well as the Stickee Monkee, Velvet Merkin and Parabola. This beer is insane and it will only get more insane as time goes on. If you can still find this goodie, definitely get it. It is one of the best!

Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley/Shikinami Sohrty, Rei Ayanami, Haruko Haruhara, and many others from Neon Genesis Evangelion and Fooly Cooly (FLCL) were used in this pairing to represent some of the blends represented by this beer. It is something I have done in the past with this series of Anniversary beers. This was a great pic because not only does it show case the colors of potential ingredients used but also how each flavor tries to out do the other. Also, Haruko was used in a previous Three Floyds collaboration this year (Rue D’Floyd) which represented her wacky aspect as “Not Normal”. The addition of Firestone and Three Floyd’s collab beer into this one made it so she can be in this pairing as well. What a bad ass!. Also, Asuka and Rei have been seen in pairings like Firestone’s Double Jack so they are definitely in the right pairing here too.

Sources:
http://articleimage.nicoblomaga.jp/image/64/2013/f/f/ffd9f7487115ef5bb2d6b22dedcca9f69c75e5641373178280.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/full/39691

Gregorius Trappistenbier by Stift Engelszell

November 27, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Trappist Monastery, Gregorius Trappistenbier, Ignis, jingai makyou, Jingai Makyō, Quadrupel, Stift Engelszell, Trappist, trappist beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Gregorius Trappistenbier by Stift Engelszell is a 9.7% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel

Description:
The first bottles of beer which, since 1 June 2012 The first Variety called Gregorius and is a dark triple with 9.7 vol% Alc. available in 0.33 liter bottles.

With honey

==Introduction==

So many Trappist Monasteries have been brewing up across the world and many have become legendary holding that Trappist Beer emblem of beer Holy legends. Ambrosia of gods literally. Who best to brew the ambrosia of god than that of the Monks in Belgium and other monasteries across the world. This monastery was added back in 2012 as part of the Trappist elite. Today, 10 monasteries hold that emblem with pride. This is the first time I have been able to try the Stift Engelszell Gergorius and bring it forth to the site. I have had it before at Congregation Ale house in Long Beach California but when I found it in Total Wine of Redondo Beach California, I had to bring it to the table. So here we have it, another legend of the many who have bared the name Trappist! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruit raisins, plums figs, cherries, prunes, currants, raspberries, dulce de leche caramel, flan hints, leather, marshmallow,stone fruit peaches, apricots, lychee, apples, brown sugar, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, hazelnut, pecan pie, cinnamon, grape preserves and port wine hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, prunes, raspberries, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow, vanilla, flan, bananas, clove spice, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, pecans, cinnamon, hazelnut, rich apples, stone fruit peaches, leather notes, toasted sweet bread with grape preserves, port wine hints, pecan pie, milk chocolate, anise, molasses, oak, chocolate cake and sweetened condensed milk Lechera hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits prunes, raisins, pecan pie, linger, caramel, apples, earthy notes and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, full brown body, sipping drinkability, medium and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
A perfect trappist beer! It’s strongest feature is the dark fruit and stone fruit forward flavos along with the apple and caramel. This beer is pretty close to the ranks of Achel Trappist and Westy 12 as each focuses on all the quad or some of the quad aspect so perfectly. This one makes its entry as being the most stone fruit forward of quads in the selections. If you Belgian beers, Quads and the Trappists beers for what they represent, then you will find this one to be rich and delicious as well. Definitely worth a pick up.

Anime Corner:
Ignis from Jingai Makyo was used in this pairing as I wanted to use a bad ass character to represent the monasteries like I have with other Trappist beer pairings but at the same time something that relates to them. That is, the holy and God aspect of beers. Heavenly really but at the same time her colors while white as a bride/Nun yet a warrior of God, like a monks, she represents also the dark and lighter stone fruit forwards of the beer as I described earlier. Seems like she can be the best candidate of representing what holy Trappist beers are all about.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/720052

He’Brew Jewbelation Reborn 18th Anniversary Ale by Shmaltz Brewing

November 27, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 18 hops, 18 malts, 18th Anniversary Ale, American Barleywine, He'Brew Jewbelation, Legend of Zelda, Schmaltz brewing, Sheik, Zelda | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

He’Brew Jewbelation Reborn 18th Anniversary Ale by Shmaltz Brewing is a 12.4% ABV American Barleywine brewed with 18 Malts and 18 Hops

Label:
So Many friends have asked, “When will you Stop?!” The answer is “Never… Well, Um, I Mean Now”! Witness Our Newborn Black Session Barleywine.

18 malts, 18 hops, and now 12.4% ABV so we can ship to allll our states again. Jewbelation 18 is now in session – L’CHAIM!

The gold charm dangling in the chest hair of Jews everywhere spells the Hebrew word “Chai” meaning “Life”. It’s numerological value is 18, the anniversary of Shmaltz! Unlike Alice Cooper’s “I’m Eighteen” from the album, Love it to Death, 18 I belted out the barroom anthem “To Life, To Life, L’Chaim” onstage in Fiddle on the Roof. At age 18, Mary Shelly began writing Frankenstein, published Jan 1, 1818. Mel Brooks fathered his first child 18 years before his 1974 Young Frankenstein re-created the iconic “It’s Alive!” In the 18th week of pregnancy, a fetus may start to kick , suck its thumb, & show genitals on an ultrasound. The Enlightenment in the 18th century culminated with US & French revolutions. On the 18th of April 1775, Paul Revere famously hollered “The British are coming!” After Beastie Boy MCA passed, Licensed to III (Horsey/Paul Revere/Quart of Beer/Girlies) reentered the Billboard Chart at #18. Simpsons shtick from Homer vs. 18th Amendment: “To alcohol – The cause of, & solution to, all of life’s problems.” Just to be clear: At 18, you might be legal to smoke, vote, buy port, gamble, & fight wars, but you CANNOT buy this beer. Then there’s Carl in Caddyshack: “So we finish the 18th and I say, “Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something for the effort?” He says. ‘There will be no money, but your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness.’ So I got that goin’ for me, which is nice.” Welcome to being here now, with so many blessings 18 years in – and growing Jeremy Cowan, proprietor.

==Introduction==
Damn that was a long label to write down. It took me a while, but here we are. Another awesome release of the Jewbelation. While unfortunately, this release was less than the 18% ABV as what I thought it was going to be, that is okay as I will see how they were able to make this complexity a reality using as many malts and hops as possible and then turning this into a Barleywine. So let’s dig into this one and see how it compares to the past ones. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruit syrup, cherries, plums, prunes, figs, blueberries, raspberries, currants, bananas, dragon fruit, bubble gum, tangerine candy, earthy grassy, citrus, grapefruit hops, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee butterscotch, marshmallows, anise, licorice, rum, coconut, rye bread, leather, Khalua coffee, fudge syrup, pecan pie, coconut, tobacco, milk sugar and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich dark chocolate, molasses, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, figs, soy sauce hints, hazelnut, oak hints, earthy, grassy, citrus, grapefruit hops, rye bread, maple syrup, dark cherries, currant syrup, leather notes, marshmallows, anise, licorice, bananas, rum, coconut, bubblegum notes, brown sugar, fudge syrup, tangerine candy, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dragon fruit syrup, Khalua hints, roasted barley, milk sugar, tobacco, leather, honey, butterscotch, chocolate cake and pecan pie.

Aftertaste:
Rich Chocolate and Blueberry syrup along with caramel, earthy and citrus hops linger. Slightly boozy in the taste but mainly sugar due to the variety of hops and malts. Silky and syrupy mouthfeel, murky motor oil full body and sipping drinkability but still drinks easy for some reason.

Overall:
A strong tasting as if it was an 18% ABV beer yet less alcohol. It is almost like they took a page from Dark Lord lore. This is a syrupy rich beer and full of rich sweet complex flavors forward. Mainly in the dark fruit department really. Literally like drinking syrup. I am not sure what I like more, the fact that it was so syrupy to pour on an ice cream or just how it reminded me of drinking beers which are way stronger than what this one is classified as. I am sure many will pass this one up under the radar for other hyped beers this year but trust me, this is all too well worth the pick up that it is insane. Especially if you love those super syrupy Dark Lord like beers.

Anime Corner:
Sheik/Zelda from the Legend of Zelda was used in this pairing to pair with the colors of the beer label and how swift yet strong like a ninja smooth and deadly this beer it. It makes no sense in the sense of how strong and complex the beer feels while the beer is only 12% ABV and believe me, I have tried beers like this that are typically in the 16~20% ABV and this is not one of the. That is why I feel since Sheik is actually princess Zelda posing as a bad ass ninja in Hyrule, she sneaks so well using her magic to make this beer so damn complex and feel like something it is not. In fact, Sheik was so hard to figure out in the beginning, that many though Sheik was a dude only later to find that it was Princess Zelda all along. There is a reason why all the Legend of Zelda games have her name in the title. You just cannot judge a bad ass book by it’s cover, and you certainly cannot judge Zelda/Sheik for being such a bad ass.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/27fN5da.jpg

Union Jack by Firestone Walker

November 27, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Fate Night Stay, Fate Stay Night, Fate Zero, Firestone Walker, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Genzoman, india pale ale, IPA, Saber, Union Jack, West Coast IPAs, west coast style, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Union Jack by Firestone Walker is a 7.5% ABV World Class India Pale Ale.

Box Description:
An aggressively hopped West Coast-style IPA. Union Jack showcases exceptional dry hop character with stunning pineapple, citrus, and pine aromas on the nose accompanies by honey-like malt aromatics. Double dry hopping brings bold grapefruit, tangerine and citrus flavors.

==Introduction==
It really has been a couple of years since I tried this beer. One of the first IPAs during the time that I started doing beer reviews but unfortunately never got the chance to bring forth. When I bought this as part of the Firestone Winter Variety pack, I finally had the chance. I have mainly tried this one on tap which was epic and great but I have not gone back to it since developing a taste for a variety of IPAs. The fact that I am bringing this here to the site is an honor as I will finally take my time to dissect what many have called one of the finest in the west coast-style of IPAs. Cheers.

Aromas:
Citrus, floral grassy piney, grapefruit hops, tropical fruit mango, papaya, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, strawberry, honey on biscuit bread, tangerines, lemon peel, Stone fruit apricots, lychee, apples, caramel and vanilla.

Flavors:
Citrus, floral, grassy piney and grapefruit hops, tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, dragon fruit, strawberry, papaya, passion fruit, honey dew melon, biscuit bread, honey, tangerines, guava, lemon peel, Stone fruit apricot, peach, lychee, apples, kiwi, floral notes, mild dank garlicky flavors, and gummy bears.

Aftertaste:
Lots of tropics, citrus, tangerine, grapefruit, vanilla, honey, caramel, biscuit bread and grassy hops linger. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink, somewhat creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and a Clear Golden body.

Overall:
One of the finest and perfect examples of IPAs out there. The step below to the Double Jack still standing strong in the front of the many West coast IPAs that come close to it. The tropics in this are strong and is really one of the reason I really loved this beer. It isn’t all about tropical though as you do get some caramel notes and lots of that super hoppy west coast dankness. This is pretty much a commoners gold and if you haven’t tried this one, you are missing out because this one is very underrated and extremely awesome of IPAs

Anime Corner:
Saber from Fate/Stay night and an OC character by genzoman and zander-d from deviant art were brought forth in this pairing to bring forth a bit of what the Union Jack and what the UK is all about. Being inventors of the India Pale Ale style to make beer last through the travels as they were preserve with hops as a natural preservative for soldiers in their journeys. This was the best pairing to represent that about the origins of the IPA.

Sources:
http://genzoman.deviantart.com/art/Saber-Who-Dares-Wins-349352556

Dead Ringer Oktoberfest

November 27, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, Dead Ringer, German Beers, german tradition, Marzen, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Oktoberfest | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Dead Ringer Oktoberfest is a 6% Märzen / Oktoberfest.

Label:
Our Dead Ringer Oktoberfest lager is inspired by old-style Marzen brews customarily enjoyed during Bavaria’s world-famous beer festival. Thanks to an abundance of toasted malt and a lower hop bitterness, this dark reddish brown lager is loaded with sweet, caramel toffee flavors and aromas. All the taste and celebration of Oktoberfest packed into one bottle; no lederhosen required.

==Introduction==

I chose Dead Ringer to bring forth as I have never tried an Oktoberfest from Ballast Point. Ballast Point has made some great beers that I have enjoyed mainly in the past like their Sea Monster, Sculpin and Victory at Sea. I definitely wanted to try this one and bring it forth to see how good it would fare. It is never too late to enjoy an Oktoberfest even in November! Cheers!

Aromas:
Caramel, chocolate hints, biscuit bread, cereal graininess, apples, toffee, rye bread, drak fruit raisin hints, earthy hop notes, cinnamon, all spice, coriander, brown sugar, clove spice and apples.

Flavors:
Chocolate notes, caramel, vanilla, Cereal grain, toffee, biscuit bread, rye bread, dark fruit raisin hints, pecan pie, pretzels, earthy and grapefruit hops, citrus, black tea, clove spice, coriander spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, hazel nut, apples and toasted bread with grape jelly.

Aftertaste:
Citrus, caramel, toasted bread,earthy and grapefruit hop hints linger. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink, clear to medium body and medium body feel.

Overall:
Very good Oktoberfest. This beer gets a lot better as it warms up but overall is easy to drink. You get more malt sweetness as it warm up. This a good beer to introduce people to craft beer. Especially during the Oktoberfest celebrations. While it is not the absolute number one in Oktoberfest, I think it is still very good and would recommend a try.

Anime Corner:
Asuka Shikinami Langley Sohryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion was chosen in this instance because of her mainly German roots and the fact that her suit holds some colors of the German Flag which is also a representative of the Oktoberfest. Because a skeleton is shown and Ballast Point is sea driven with pirates, fish, and skulls and crossbones, It would also fit as Asuka has an eye patch almost making her look like pirate. The combination fits as both Oktoberfest and Pirates party and drink happily!

Sources:
http://www.moeboard.net/static/data/table_moe/1414671842_fb01206d1d514e23e9e07312b145a795.jpg

Velvet Mocha Merlin by Firestone Walker

November 26, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged chocolate chip cookies, cocoa nibs, Coffee Beans, dark chocolate, Firestone Walker, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Firestone winter pack, Intelligentsia Coffee, Legend of Zelda, Midna, milk Chocolate, Oatmeal Stout, Twili Midna, Twilight Princess, Velvet Merlin, Velvet Mocha Merlin | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Velvet Mocha Merlin by Firestone Walker is a 5.5% ABV Oatmeal Stout brewed with cocoa nibs and Intelligentsia Espresso Coffee beans.

Label:
Our beloved Velvet Merlin Aged with cocoa nibs and Intelligentsia espresso beans. All of the smooth textures and roasty dark chocolate goodness of our seasonal Velvet Merlin Oatmeal Stout with the added infusion of Intelligentsia Coffee House aromas and cocoa dusted chocolate truffle flavors.

==Introduction==

This beer came as part of the Firestone Walker Winter Variety pack. Since I had tried the Velvet Merlin and Merkin before, there was no way I’d pass this one up especially after my friend Richard told me about this one. While I was debating getting this one at first, it was a good deal as I was able to get 4 22oz beers for around 15$ at Total Wine. Also, the beers included like Union Jack IPA, DBA and Wookie Jack were worth it. Union Jack is one I have not brought to review and now I will so keep an eye out for that one. As far as the whole coffee and cocoa nibs with the original Merlin goes, I could only expect awesome. However, I have to see it for what it is because the original is just as great. So let us see what this one offers. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, mocha, Espresso coffee, fancy coffee, vanilla, caramel, coconut hints, milk sugar, oreo cookies, chocolate chip cookies, brown sugar, flan hints, molasses, graham cracker smores and marshmallows.

Flavors:
Espresso coffee, fancy coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate,, bananas, chocolate truffles, milk sugar, fancy mocha, caramel, vanilla, coconut hints, oreo cookies, chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, graham cracker smores and marshmallows, hints of flan, Khalua hints, dark fruit raisins, toffee and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Coffee, dark chocolate, caramel, mild roasted notes and nice dry finish. No alcohol in the taste, smooth and creamy mouthfeel, easy to medium drinkability and a dark full body.

Overall:
Making the Merlin much more to the perfect standard. If it wasn’t perfect already, this one made it so regardless of the base beer. The Oatmeal Stout smooth characteristics with the coffee and chocolate make this one like a rich cold coffee brew. They were right about the whole aspect of smooth and chocolate taking over. Possibly the best one in the pack next to the Union Jack but then again, each of the beers has its great merits. Hope they get a chance to brew this one again or make a Mocha Merkin from this because in all honestly, that would be damn magical. Highly recommend it if you find the winter pack.

Anime Corner:
Twili Midna was used in this pairing because I wanted to show case Merlin and Merkin as in the previous beers as magicians and sorceresses. Midna fits that whole magical aspect and being the Twilight princess melding into the dark and light brings about the rich sweet flavors as well as the dark roasty characters of chocolate and coffee together altogether while being nice and smooth. She can light up the darkness.

Sources:
http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2014/023/7/6/7647e254a61d73d87520077effaa393f-d73fp4v.png

2014 Barrel Roll No. 08 Falling Leaf by Hangar 24

November 26, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barrel Roll, Barrel Roll No. 8, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Do a Barrel Roll, Falling Leaf, Fruit Cake, Gourdgeous, Hangar 24, Honey comb, Imperial Porter, Imperial Pumpkin Porter, Mezcal Tequila, Nia Teppelin, Pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, pumpkin seeds, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2014 Barrel Roll No. 08 Falling Leaf by Hangar 24 is a 10.2% Imperial Pumpkin Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Bottle: 2033/2981

FALLING LEAF: The Pilot Brings the airplane into a stall. Then works the rudder to slip back and forth from right right to left while hold the nose forward.

Each autumn we brew a fresh batch of Gourdgeous, an Imperial Porter which pays homage to our local pumpkin harvest. To create FALLING LEAF, we placed a small portion of last year’s Gourdgeous in barrels to age gracefully through another turn of the seasons. A year in our cellar has mellowed and sweetened the robust flavors of pumpkin pie spice, molasses, caramel and dark chocolate, while the single-use bourbon barrels we selected lift the beer back up, adding bright layers of bourbon, oak and vanilla. Beneath these layers you’ll recognize the strong core of the base beer: 1,000 pounds of pumpkins grown just ½ a mile from our brewery. Falling Leaf is ready to drink now, or can be placed into your own cellar to continue aging gracefully.

==Introduction==

Essentially, the Barrel Aged Gourdgeous which is their seasonal pumpkin porter. I had not heard of this until I saw this one online. The unfortunate part about it is that it is limited so only able to obtain 1 bottle of this, I was hoping to get another for a good friend. I will have to see if I can find more however the label does specify that it is a rather limited beer. Hope they make more of it but if you can find it, well, let’s see if you want to buy it based on my review. So let’s go and see what this evolved Pumpkin Porter can do. Cheers!

Aromas:
Strong scent of honey dew melon and pumpkin flesh, plantains, bananas, clove spice, piloncillo sugar cone, Mezcal Tequila hints, honey comb, bourbon, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, maple syrup, rye bread, fruit cake, Danish cookies, flan, Dark fruit raisins, cherries, blue berries, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, marshmallows, smores, anise, pumpkin cheese cake, anise, molasses, honey comb, wine grape hints, cookie dough ice cream, chai tea and sweet potatoes.

Flavors:
Honey dew melon, Agave syrup, Tequila hints, grape sangria, pumpkin seeds, piloncillo sugar cone, pumpkin flesh, cinnamon, pecan pie, bananas, rum hints, bourbon, marshmallows, chocolate smores, toasted coconut, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, blue berries, currants, bananas, plantains, capirotada raisins bread pudding, flan, coffee cake, brown sugar, anise, honey comb, maple syrup, spiced coffee, vanilla, oak, Danish cookies, pumpkin cheese cake, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, cookie dough ice cream, all spice, crème brulee, chai tea, sweet potato, wine grape hints, walnuts, nutella, old mango hints, graham crackers and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Fruit cake, pumpkin spice, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, rum bourbon, marshmallow, tequila and sangria hints. No alcohol in the taste, creamy mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and dark orange full body.

Overall:
I think the biggest part about this beer is that it was nothing like a bourbon barrel aged pumpkin beer I have ever had before. This was something very special. The barrel flavors were not like those of the bourbons I am used to. They were more like a rum or a tequila. It is almost like the pilot in this one took a strict page from the witchcraft book of Halloween and decided to do it’s own spell to really give that ‘Trick Or Treat’ feel. The only problem is that this one is limited. So I suggest you get to searching and really try to find this one.

Anime Corner:
Nia Teppellin from Toppa Tengen Gurren Lagan was used in this pairing as a pilot. In the past Hangar 24 Barrel Roll beers, I have put specific pilot characters for each review as I feel it fits the series overall. Many wear jumpsuits or some sort of suit in general. Since Nia in her Anti-Spiral suit sort of resembles a mobile suit pilot and the fact that she comes from a mobile suit pilot show and got to drive one next to her love Simon, this was perfect. In reference to the beer name and the overall Fall season and dark Halloween look, I paired several pictures. In the first one she is falling like the name of the beer, falling leaf. In the dark picture with the mobile suit, Gurren Lagan, it looks evil and dark with the moonlight representing fall and Halloween and the aspect of being a pilot. In the last picture it is just her and a close up as to how sweet she is. While is very powerful and evil in one point in the show, this paired greatly with the strength and complexity of the beer. The teal and red colors represent the colors of the label as well but also that Tequila and Rum notes I kept getting on this beer. Definitely a lot going on with the beer and a great pairing at that.

Sources:
http://4.blog.xuite.net/4/7/a/b/10350619/blog_422775/txt/23236801/21.jpg
http://data3.whicdn.com/images/15647981/original.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/xo1g8n.jpg

Abundance by Renaissance brewing

November 26, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Abundance, Asmodeus, Baltic Cherry Porter, Baltic Porter, cherries, dark chocolate, Holiday Baltic Porter, Lust, New Zealand beer, Renaissance brewing, The Seven Deadly Sins | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Abundance by Renaissance brewing is a 7.6% ABV Baltic Porter brewed with cherries.

Label:
A hybrid of English Porter and Russian Imperial Stout, Baltic Porters are full bodied and smooth, with rich malt flavours. Abundance is brewed with cherries and this helps accentuate the sweetness of the eleven different malts that we used in the mash. The result is a robust, dark beer with exceptional smoothness, less burnt characters than traditional porters and a mellow cherry finish. Abundance is a perfect pairing for a kiwi barbecue, with an iron curtain influence: venin rye bread

==Introduction==

A Baltic porter from Marlborough New Zealand. I cannot recall if I ever had had a New Zealand beer before, but what this says it has to offer, I was definitely intrigued with the find. I honestly chose this on a whim since I was doing other beer purchases online and I needed to get another beer to finish my order. This one intrigued me since not only was it a regular porter, but a Baltic one at that. The addition of cherries, well, that just added to how much I wanted to try it. I cannot recall if this will be my first review for a New Zealand beer, but this is a new review here on the site for Renaissance brewing. Cheers!

Aromas:
Coffee, mocha, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, milk chocolate, dark cherries, cherry cordials, marshmallow hints, soy sauce, molasses, anise, mint chocolate, brown sugar, Dr. Pepper Cherry hints, vanilla, caramel flan hints, rye bread, pecan pie hints, hazelnut, soy sauce and dark fruit raisins.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, coffee, cherry cordials, dark fruit raisins, dark cherry, currants, black berries, mild rye bead, marshmallow, mild roasty hints, milk sugar, soy sauce hints, mocha hints, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut nectar, vanilla, Dr. Pepper Cherry hints, anise, Irish cream and mint chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Mild Roasty coffee, milk sugar, rye bread, dark fruit, dark cherry yogurt hints and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, medium to full body dark crimson body, easy to drink, smooth and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
I could find myself drinking this all day. So much rich flavors and yet so damn smooth. For those that don’t want a super boozy chocolate cherry beer, this fits the bill right here. Lots of flavor complexity with rich sweetness and not overwhelming booziness. Yeah I think I really like this one a lot that I will definitely pick this one up again. Not just worth one try, but several. Especially since all the other great cherry chocolate beers are sometimes harder to find.

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus (Lust) from Seven Deadly Sins was used in this pairing to represent Abundance. Abundance in the sense that this is liquid pleasure to your taste buds. It’s a guilty pleasure. A cherry chocolate and dark fruit guilty pleasure of a beer. This Asmodeus isn’t evil, she only is by name and association with sin. She is very sweet and very approachable and as you can see, there is an Abundance of her to go around. So give her a try, you may like this devil’s water.

Sources:
http://enjelia.deviantart.com/art/7-Deadly-Sins-Asmodeus-394843440

Eight by Surly Brewing

November 26, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Barleywine, anniversary ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, High West Rye Whiskey Barrels, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Naruto, Oat Wine, Oatwine, Rye Whiskey, Rye Whiskey Barrels, surly, Surly 8, Surly Brewing, wheat wine, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Eight by Surly Brewing is a 12%ABV Oat Wine Aged in High West Rye Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
get surly

“When it’s done” is a phrase we’ve used to describe release dates for our beers for many years. When you’re putting the beer first, it just makes sense. Our anniversary is technically in February, but this unique Oat Wine style ale needed to age in High West Rye Whiskey barrels until, well… until it’s done. Here’s to Eight great years, and we’ll all be celebrating soon in our all new Destination Brewery.

The idea behind our anniversary line-up of beers was to give Todd, Surly’s Head Brewer, free rein to use whatever ingredients and methods he wanted to brew the beer. This year’s bottle artwork is a one-of-a-kind illustration collaboration between Todd and local artist Josh “Jawsh” Lemke.

This beer was designed for barrel aging, so it’s been a great opportunity to work with our friends at High West Distillery® in Park City. Utah. Brewed with Golden Promise and Aromatic malt Oats, and Milk sugar fermented in stainless steel then aged in High West Rye Whiskey barrels, this golden hued Oat-Wine style ale summons notes of spicy vanilla marshmallow and aromas of honey and whiskey.

==Introduction==

Another awesome year has come for Surly brewing and the release of their long awaited Barley wine is now here. Every year, I await the release of their anniversary ale since trying the Surly 4. Some releases are greater than others but sometimes you have to dig deep online to find these obscure beers… or just go to france44.com and get them, I guess that’ll work. Anyways, this year they made an oatwine aged in Rye whiskey barrels. I have tried many barley wines, some wheat wines, but never an oatwine. So the fact that this one is barrel aged, I will try to find the original beer somehow but if not, at least I will let you know how this year’s Surly anniversary turns out. Come, join me into the abyss of flavor experience…

Aromas:
Marshmallow cream, chocolate smores, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, flan, custard, dark fruit raisins, cherries, white chocolate, toffee, butterscotch, bourbon, rye bread, rye whiskey, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Lechera sweetened condensed milk, bananas, clove spice, pumpkin spice, tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, piña colada hints, pecan pie, hazel nut, oatmeal cookies, Danish cookies, oranges, citrus, coriander spice, macadamia nuts, marzipan, burnt sugar, brown sugar and candi sugar.

Flavors:
Bourbon, Rye whiskey, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, flan, custard, tobacco, leathery notes, sweetened condensed milk, oranges, coriander spice, mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, pears, apples, toasted coconut, piña colada hints, rich white chocolate, toffee, mild pumpkin spice, cinnamon, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, Danish cookies, Tres Leches cake, marshmallow cream, bananas, clove spice, chocolate smores, butterscotch, rye bread, brown sugar, marzipan, hazelnut, burnt sugar, candi sugar hints, dark fruits like cherries, raisins, plums, biscuit bread, capirotada raisin bread pudding, pecan pie and almond joy chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Lingering dulce de lecher caramel, burnt sugar, white chocolate hints, citrus, mild piña colada hints , bananas, toasted coconut, rye whiskey, earthy notes and pecans. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, smooth, creamy and silky mouthfeel, sipping drinkability with some notes that makes this really easy to drink and a full golden brown full body.

Overall:
There is no surprise here. The moment I realized I really liked this one was right when this beer started to have some special tropical hints and white chocolate for some reason. I kept tasting white chocolate at times especially as it got warmer. I am not sure if that is part of the Oat wine or the combination of the that with the whiskey. What an amazing beer for their anniversary that they released. I really enjoyed this one. If you would like to obtain this one, I got it at france44.com where they are very limited and selling out very quick. So yes, I highly suggest you get this special anniversary ale.

Anime Corner:
Kaguya Ōtsutsuki from the Naruto series is one of the main antagonist from the series. She was brought here in this pairing for several reasons. Mainly for her great pairing with the label, the evil that she is flows great with Surly and the white chocolate aspect I kept getting from the beer. All the colors in this pairing show many of the flavor complexities that this one shows. Surly unleashed a special type of demon from it’s sealed state and now with her sweet onslaught of flavors, she will take back what was hers. Your lack of not trying this beer. She is all powerful, complex, sweet in appearance and flavor but overall, just evil!!

Sources:
http://rikamello.deviantart.com/art/Ohtsutsuki-Kaguya-478836486

Judge Jury & Executioner IIIPA by Ironfire brewing

November 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged DIPA, Donne Anonime, Double India Pale Ale, Franco il Nero, IIIPA, IIPA, IPA, Iron Fire, Judge Jury & Executioner, Lily Salvatana, Outlaw Django, Tre Donne Crudeli, Tre donne Crudelli, Triple IPA, Zoku Satsuriku no Django | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.2/5

Judge Jury & Executioner IIIPA by Ironfire brewing is an 11.2% ABV Triple India Pale Ale.

Label:
The verdict is in. Normal IPA’s have been found, wanting.
Enter the palate wrecking goodness of
Judge, Jury & Executioner Triple IPA!
Continuous hopping from mash tun to fermenter with 7 high alpha hop varieties from 3 different continents. Only extreme hop heads need apply, for this IPA judges you, not the other way around. Make sure your hop snobbery is on top of it’s game for if not, the weak will be found guilty for their hop hating foolishness. The noose will be strung…the order will be given…and your palate will be swinging from the gallows.”
Brewed once a year so enjoyit cold, fresh and while it lasts!

==Introduction==

The moment I saw this one, my IPA senses (which aren’t as strong as my Belgian or Barrel Aged beer side but still damn strong) were going off the radar. The last time I had a triple IPA was when I had the Power Plant from El Segundo. Since IronFire is from Temecula California, I simply could not wait. I had to try this massive IPA. I was able to get this one online at www.craftshack.com and was glad when I got it. Now, on to the trial, will this beer be judged or will my beer experienced taste buds be at the mercy of death row. I won’t say I will have it easy even if I had some of the best IPAs in the world, but this beer makes me be cautious for sure. Slowly, into the the doors of the court room we walk and you, are my jury… cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, herbal, grapefruit, piney, grassy and floral hops, yerba buena/spearmint, vanilla, caramel, oranges, blue basil, garlic notes, dank onions, hints of tropical fruit like dragon fruit, honey dew melon, lemon peel, pineapple, mango, lemon grass, oregano, biscuit bread, Italian herbs, toffee and orange juice.

Flavors:
Rich Herbal, citrus, grapefruit, piney, grassy and floral hops, caramel, vanilla, oranges, blue basil, dank oniony, garlicky flavors, minor hints or tropics like pineapple, dragon fruit, prickly pear, lemon peel, mango, honey dew melon, stone fruit apricot, sour apple, biscuit bread, Italian herbs, orange juice, oregano, tangerine candy, strawberry hints, yerbabuena/spearmint, honey and wasabi hints without the burning.

Aftertaste:
Dank, oniony, grassy, garlicky, hoppy, palate drying, grapefruit, orange and vanilla hop flavors linger after the rest dry off. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Clear as daylight and deadly as sin gold body, sipping drinkability and almost creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
While this is a perfect hoppy IPA, it is not exceeding like El Segundo’s Power Plant. I only say this because of my more tropical palate preference when it comes to IPAs. It is still a great IPA and one I would definitely try again and again. It’s hop variety surely focuses on the more grassy, herbal and super dank qualities of IPAs. Basically, of the 3 ranges I categorize IPAs (Tropical, Herbal and Malty) this one lies in the herbal strength but also balances the other flavors well. This beer ends so damn dank and dry it almost burns in a hop sense of greatness. It’s painfully delicious reminding me of the time I drank ruination for the first time. This truly is not for those that can’t handle their hops. At a triple verse, I can only imagine that this monster is literally knocking at Pliny the Younger’s door with a death warrant. While I was able to survive this one, it did surely take it’s toll but this is one for you to experience too reader, take my word on this one, I highly recommended!

Anime Corner:
Donne Anonime, Franco il Nero and Lily Salvatana from Tre Donne Crudeli/Outlaw Django are used in this pairing to represent the Judge Jury & Executioner respectively. In the label, you can see 3 women looking for a convicted cowboy ready bring on mortal punishment. While the label makes a great explanation as to how the flavors unleash these beauties onto your taste buds, I can elaborate on who these cowgirls are. In the pictures, you see the act of the executioner Lily trying to execute Franco while Donna Anonime come sup behind and says… not today. A Jury as Franco is can only determine so much before before the Judge Donne passes judgment and Executioner Lily looks for your head! A great pairing here for sure.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/891881
http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa121/Opphiucus/066.jpg~original

Stochasticity Project Hibiscusicity by Stone Brewing

November 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Strong Pale Ale, Hibiscus, Hibiscusicity, orange peel, Stochasticity Project, Stone Brewing, Stone Stochasticity | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Stochasticity Project Hibiscusicity by Stone Brewing is a 7.4% ABV Belgian Strong Pale Ale brewed with Hibiscus Flowers and Orange peel.

Label:
STOCHASTICITY
STO-KAESTI-CITY
There is no happenstance or coincidence. Dumb luck is a fallacy and randomness a commonly accepted mistruth. Much of what seemingly falls into place and seems so natural is a result of Stochasticity, a concept embraced and exalted by this special and unpredictable series of beers, where exotic notions, ingredients and ideas coalesce at an interesting and often unexpected endpoint.

Stone Stochasticity Project Hibiscusicity
In pushing the beer envelope, we aim to advance imbibers’ options for something far beyond run of the mill with this immensely thirst-quenching alternative. As original as the tongue-twisting name we coined for it, this robust Belgian-style ale is brewed with wheat, hibiscus and orange peel, bringing forth floral and citrus notes against a brilliant pink hue.

HOP VARIETIES: Magnum & Sterling

MALT VARIETIES: Pale Malt and Wheat malt

SPECIAL INGREDIENT: Orange Peel

SPECIAL INGREDIENT: Hibiscus Flower

==Introduction==

Stochasticity Project has been an ongoing project by Stone brewing for a while where they release special experimental beers or in some cases beers that were draft only once but now see public release. Almost like from the book of Monkish, this beer uses hibiscus. However, Monkish brewing makes a saison with Hibiscus and chamomile called Floraison. Makes me wonder what just orange peel will do for this one. Either way, I’m open minded to try it and I love Jamaica/Mexican Hibiscus Flower punch as well so this beer could possibly hit the right spot. Let us see what this one is about.

Aromas:
Oranges, citrus, hibiscus, floral hops, honey, citrus blossom honey, biscuit bread, wild bee honey, apples, lemons, caramel, vanilla, stone fruits, raspberry hints, brown sugar and cinnamon hints.

Flavors:
Oranges, Hibiscus flower punch/Jamaica, citrus blossom honey, wild bee honey, biscuit bread, lavender, grapefruit, lychee, stone fruit apricots, peaches, mango hints, apples, lemons, caramel, vanilla, raspberry notes, floral hops, green tea hints, cinnamon hints and mild white grapes.

Aftertaste:
Orange, hibiscus, honey, vanilla, stone fruit hints and floral hops. No alcohol in the taste, crimson light to medium body, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel, easy to drink.

Overall:
This one is very good indeed. While I like the Floraison better, this is very damn refreshing and delicious. Still a great beer that many people will find tasty. This would of made a great beer in the summer if I had tried it then. Either way, it still a great beer now and worthy the buy. Lots of good flavors here that I definitely recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Original samurai character was used in this pairing to represent the bad assery of the beer but also the crimson and rose pink colors that are represented by the label, hibiscus flowers, beer color and flavors. Stone is always making bad ass beers so I figure another bad ass artwork was called for in this instance of the pairing.

Sources:
http://souzanurafrianto.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/konachan-com-73976-gray_eyes-japanese_clothes-kimono-original-red_hair-scarf-short_hair-sword-weapon.jpg

Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top by Evil Twin Brewing

November 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Asmodeus, Astaroth, Astarotto, Dark Cherries, dark cherry yogurt, Evil Twin Brewing, Glazed Imperial Doughnut Break, Holiday Ale, holiday beers, Imperial Biscotti Break, Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top, Imperial Porter, Shinra Bansho, Shinra Banshou, Shinrabansho, sour cherries | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top by Evil Twin Brewing is an 11.5% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with Sour Cherries.

Label:
The Holidays brings out the best in some people. However if the Holidays also is a tough one for you, this beer will definitely sweeten dark times of endless caroling and difficult domestic obligations. Did Imperial Biscotti Break also make your sugar levels rise and the bitter sweet flavors of coffee, almonds and chocolate very sentimental – this one has a sour cherry on top. Forza Imperiale.

==Introduction==

It’s approaching Christmas and what is one of the best candies to be released at this time aside from Ferrero Rocher chocolates? Well none other than the Cherry Cordials. The Chocolate covered cherries with cherry syrup. I never tried the original Imperial Biscotti break but I did the Doughnut break which was awesome. So awesome in fact, that when I saw this one on www.craftshack.com, I had to get it and check it out. Now all I have to do is see if I can find another to cellar. Either way, this is supposed to be a Christmas beer, so why not celebrate it with this dessert one. Let us find out if it really is awesome.

Aromas:
Rich chocolate cherry cordials, Dark cherry yogurt, vanilla dulce de leche caramel, milk sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolate, almonds, almond joy, almond milk, pecan pie, cherry cobbler, cherry chocolate cheese cake hints, flan, hazelnut nectar, mocha, rock candy, ginger bread, fruit cake, molasses, anise, Cherry Dr. pepper hints, anise, Irish cream, vanilla wafers and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate and Dark cherry yogurt, dulce de leche caramel, Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, black berries, blue berries, currants, cherry cordial chocolate, milk sugar, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolate, almonds, almond joy, almond milk, hazelnut, Raspberry preserves on rye bread, cherry chocolate cheese cake, vanilla wafers, rum hints, ginger bread, fruit cake, rock candy, candi sugar hints, mocha, Cherry Khalua, molasses, anise, earthy notes, Irish cream, brown sugar, flan, cherry cobbler, pecan pie, Dr. pepper cherry, cinnamon toast crunch in cherry syrup, coconut, biscuit bread, tobacco, leather and marshmallows.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, dark cherry yogurt, earthy notes, raspberry preserve hints, roasted coffee notes, tobacco, leather, vanilla and other dark fruit lingers. No alcohol in the taste, very dangerous. Smooth creamy and silky mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and pitch black crimson dark full body with hardly a milimeter of lacing.

Overall:
Damn, surely with this dessert they were not kidding about the cherry on top of this complex chocolate dessert of complex goodness. This reminds me of the Bourbon County Cherry Rye. The cherries do not come off as overly sweet but they are somewhat tart like cherry skins which really helps balance out the excessive sweetness and overall makes it like a fruit cake in a way. Now I really want to find another bottle of this and get more for saving as this will be the best treat for Christmas. If you can find it, it would make a great present and I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Astaroth and Asmodeus from Shinrabansho were used in this pairing since it is a Christmas beer after all but the whole Holiday coming from Evil Twin fits perfectly as they both look like each other. Mother and Daughter. What about the Cherry on top? Why that’s Asmodeus head sitting on top of Astaroth’s motherly blueberry ofcourse, HA! I really like the way this turned out in terms of the colors, the dark aspect of the beer how it is sweet but dark cherry tart in a way too. It is more than perfect.

Sources:
http://i4.pixiv.net/img72/img/cve27426/40452197.jpg

http://safebooru.org//images/1108/d5f8f143151b9b09e9bb04628fbe35a574008447.jpg?1151134

Extremely Angry Beast by Clown Shoes Brewing

November 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Imperial Stout, Angry Beast, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bleach, Clown Shoes Brewing, Clown Shoes Very Angry Beast, Extremely Angry Beast, Hammer of The Holy, Holy water, Itasca Loonidragon, Jamaican Rum, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, porcine unidragon, Russian Imperial Stout, The Good The Bad & The Unidragon, Tia Harribel, Undead Party Crasher, Vampire Slayer, Very Angry Beast, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Extremely Angry Beast by Clown shoes brewing is a 12% ABV Imperial Stout blend of Bourbon Barrel Aged Smoked American Imperial Stout brewed with Holy water, a Bourbon Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout and a 40 year old Jamaican Rum Barrel Aged Smoked American Imperial Stout brewed with Holy water….. Now that’s a Cuvee!

Label:
How do you create an Extremely Angry Beast? Mix one part bourbon barrel aged Blaecorn Unidragon, one part bourbon barrel aged Undead Party Crasher, one part Hammer of the Holy, then add a massive dose of incendiary rage.

==Introduction==

Essentially a Cuvee of different barrel aged beers. The Unidragon series has one of the ultimate series out there or Russian and Imperial Stouts by Clown Shoes brewing. While they are trying to release special variants to individual states only, the original Unidragon keeps evolving more and more and more. Now with this year’s addition of Hammer of the Holy, this brings this beer to yet another level of crazyness. It really depends if one can take on this even more advanced version of this beast. I don’t think I am worthy, but Let us give it a try.

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, spiced chocolate, tootsie rolls, chocolate milk shake, roasted coffee notes, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, oak, smokey campfire notes, graham cracker smores, marshmallows, hints of tropical fruit, rum, bananas, brown sugar, rye bread, coconut, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, flan, mocha, toffee, pecan pie, chocolate cake, butter scotch, tres leches cake and sweetened condensed milk (Leche Nestle).

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, spiced chocolate, tootsie rolls, Dulce de leche caramel, oak, vanilla,Dr. Pepper Cherry notes, earthy notes, roasted coffee, smokey campfire, rum, bourbon, oreo cookies and cream, tropical fruit hints of pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, fudge brownies, leather, tobacco, smoked campfire notes, chocolate graham cracker smores, BBQ meat, marshmallows, coconut, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, black berries, oatmeal cookies, flan, hazelnut nectar, mocha, rye bread, brown sugar, almond joy, rocky road icecream, chocolate chip cookies, butterscotch, flan, crème brulee, pecan pie, anise, mint chocolate chip, piña colada hints, tres leches cake and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Caramel, dark fruit, chocolate, smokey notes, hints of tropics, hints or bourbon rum and brown sugar linger. Slight alcohol in the taste but nothing detracting too much from the rich flavors. Silky yet smooth mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and pitch black dark body.

Overall:
Damn epic!. The bourbon and rum blend very well. This reminds me of the Bruery Smoking Wood if it was mixed with Rum Black Tuesday. The flavors are so rich in all the spectrums that there is a lot that can be said about this Cuvee of Barrel aged goodness. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough more I can say about its complexity as it keeps going and evolving ever so stronger as it warms up. What I will say is that you should really consider taking o this beast. Come one, bring it on! It will be fun.

Anime Corner:
Tia Harribel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck and Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach have always represented some aspect of the clown shoes beers in my past reviews. Tia is the Undead Party Crasher/Vampire Slayer. Nelliel has always been the original Unidragon and Yoruichi would be added for good measures since the Porcine Unidragon came out. The blend of each beer together and the unleash of the Extremely Angry beast can be best represented when all three together are looking like bad asses powering up to team up against great foes. The strength and complexity has come together very epically that I could not think of any other pairing artwork that would be the best representative of this beer.

Sources:
http://s15.postimg.org/i37agkebt/harribel_nelliel_yoruichi_copy.jpg
http://wallpapersinhq.com/images/big/harribel-1403215.jpg
http://quantumotaku.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/223167.jpg
http://www.rubberslug.com/user/0233baa15b054e8c988441e924824aeb/765947-3953101-bleachyoruichibig.jpg

Other Unidragon and Vampire Slayer/Undead Party Crasher Reviews:
Blaecorn Unidragon Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/blaecorn-unidragon-russian-imperial-stout-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

Vampire Slayer/Undead Party Crasher Review:https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/03/27/vampire-slayer-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

Angry Beast Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/angry-beast-by-clown-shoes/

Porcine Unidragon Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/13/porcine-unidragon-by-clown-shoes/

Very Angry Beast Review:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/08/22/very-angry-beast-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

Hammer of The Holy:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/12/30/hammer-of-the-holy-by-clown-shoes/

Itasca Loonidragon Review:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2014/11/15/itasca-loonidragon-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

The Good, The Bad, The Unidragon:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2014/10/26/the-good-the-bad-the-unidragon-by-clown-shoes/

Sabre-Toothed Squirrel by Smog City brewing

November 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Blazblue, Blaze Blue, Hopopio Maltocutus, makoto nanaya, Red Ale, Sabre-Toothed Squirrel, Smog City, Smog City brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.65/5

Sabre-Toothed Squirrel by Smog City brewing is a 7.0% ABV American Amber Ale.

Label:
Known locally as Hopopio Maltocutus, our Sabre-Toothed Squirrel befriends you with a complex caramel and toasted malt character, then quickly flaunts its fangs with a solid hop profile lending notes of sweet citrus, pine resin, and a touch of peach.

This cunning cuddly companion is more Amber than IPA with lingering toffee like sweetness, but you won’t soon forget his substantial hop presence and firm bitterness in the finish.

Sabre-Toothed Squirrel is a balanced and approachable hoppy Amber that pairs well with full flavored foods and remains drinkable despite his HOPPY BITE!!
___

Recently released by Smog City, this cute squirrel label had me going. I said to myself, well, I do love their beers, this is a new release, and I can’t help it it but that is a damn cute and dangerous little squirrel. So there you go, I got it. Pick this one up locally at Smog City directly in Torrance California or keep an eye out as some stores will start to carry this really soon. So let’s take a look and see how this beer is.

Aromas:
Caramel, toffee, pecan pie, citrus, piney, floral and grassy hops, toast rye bread with honey, tangerine, peanuts, hazelnut, brown sugar, pineapple hints, walnuts, dragon fruit, maple syrup hints, cherries, mango, vanilla, herbal notes, grapefruit and coconut hints.

Flavors:
Caramel, rich biscuit, rich toffee, citrus, piney and grassy hops, rye bread, coffee hints, chocolate hints, hazelnut, pecan pie, tangerine, peanuts, honey, peach notes, toasted bread, brown sugar, coconut hints, dragon fruit, vanilla, herbal notes, mango, maple syrup and cherries.

Aftertaste:
Lingering toffee, caramel, piney, citrus, grapefruit, hints of tropical fruit linger, grassy and herbal hops. No alcohol in the taste, clear to medium body, easy to moderate drinkability, light to moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
A very good amber for sure. The balance of hoppy and sweet is there and is very enjoyable almost tot he point of easy to drink. This works out well for those that love refreshing beers but also like some malt profile and caramel to their beers. Mainly me as I love sweet beers. So yeah, definitely pick up this little guy here, you won’t regret, yes he bites but not till later so enjoy.

Anime Corner:
Makoto Nanaya from BlazBlue was used in this pairing as she is the cutest squirrel girl in anime and video games I could find. She is a powerful fighter so I believe just like the hops are the bite of the sabertooth squirrel, she will kick your ass in such fashion. She is cute as hell like the little squirrel and is probably as sweet as well once you get acquainted.

Sources:
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx294/girlsay/20131110B62F78C9D_zpsce75ad23.jpg
https://41.media.tumblr.com/60c110ad41de3784b55502c347ac71d0/tumblr_mlp87cRo4i1qi9bico1_500.jpg

Peach Sour by (512) brewing

November 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged (512) brewing, American Wild Ale, Hinanawi Tenshi, Peach, Peach Sout, Peaches, sour beer, Texas, Touhou, Touhou Project | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Peach Sour by (512) brewing is a 6% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with peaches and aged in oak barrels.

Label:
We produced Peach Sour using a sour mash technique. We encouraged the naturally occurring wild yeast and bacteria that come in with the organic barley and wheat to spontaneously ferment at warm temperatures over a three day period. Fermentation was completed in stainless and racked to a 1,000 gallon Feeder (large oak barrel) for aging. After being on the wood for two months, we added 200 pounds of fresh peaches and allowed it to age another 12 months before packaging it for you. We hope you enjoy!
___

Special thanks to Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this local treat from Texas. This is also my first (512) brewing beer as well. So definitely an honor to try something from these guys. I see they make a variety of styles including some nice Belgian ones as well. Since this is also my first peach sour, I am kind of excited as peaches are an awesome fruit. Sweet mainly but also tart at times. So let’s try this one and see how it goes. Thanks to (512) and Aaron for this one, Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich peaches, funky oak, wine grapes, apricots, green apples, raspberry hints, lemon peel, farmhouse hay, sour musty funk, flowers, hibiscus, earthy must, dragon fruit, tangerine, rye bread, grapefruit, strawberries, pineapple, dragon fruit hints and honey.

Flavors:
Rich Stone fruit peaches, tart apricots, oranges, strawberries, lemon peel, grapefruit, wine grapes, funky oak, vanilla, honey, sour funk, acidic notes, flowers, hibiscus, orange peel, tangerine peel, green apples, rye bread, raspberry skins, teguacan (Mexican Lime and Seltzer water with spices), pineapple and hints of dragon fruit.

Aftertaste:
On the dry side with some nice peach and tart apricot notes, oak and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, light to medium body, medium drinkability, smooth and crisp mouthfeel.

Overall:
Now that is a very good tart sour! The peaches and tart apricot comes through well over the sour. While it is not super duper sour, it is still tart and sweet to some extent and somewhat tropical. I really don’t think I have ever tried a peach sour before but this one was very good. If you like sours, and live in Texas, give this one a shot!

Anime Corner:
Tenshi Hinanawi from the Touhou project series was used in this pairing since she carries the peaches in her hat. In this picture, she represents the souring and fermentation process that makes the beer a bit stronger. The evil look and fire makes the beer brew as you can see in the background, the bacteria seeps into her making become more and more evil. But evil is just as sweet if not sour.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/944406

Enjoy by 12.05.14 by Stone brewing

November 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Darkstalkers, DIPA, Double India Pale Ale, Enjoy by, Enjoy by 12.05.14, Enjoy by series, Imperial India Pale Ale, IPA, Morrigan Aensland, Stone Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.2/5

Enjoy by 12.05.14 by Stone brewing is a 9.4% ABV World Class Imperial India Pale Ale.

Label:
Devastatingly fresh
You have in your hands a devastatingly fresh double IPA. Freshness is a key component of many beers- especially big, hoppy IPAs – but we’ve taken it further, a lot further, within this one. We brewed this IPA specifically NOT to last. We’ve not only gone to extensive lengths to ensure that you get your hands on this beer within an extraordinarily short window, and we’ve sent a very clear message in the name of the beer itself that there is no better time than right NOW to enjoy this IPA!
____

Haven’t tried this beer in ages. Mainly since it was coming out so frequently I always tried to pass it up for other beers. I guess I decided screw it, I am doing another review of this one. Each release is the same I would think but the idea is to drink this one as fresh as possible without sacrificing the hop head theology of as fresh as possible. While me personally, I could care less about what hop heads think of freshness, but even a moderately fresh one, I will give it a round to see what flavors I can get from this. I think even at 9.4% ABV, freshness would get thrown out the window, but that is none of my business. Now let’s drink some of this tea. Cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, grapefruit, floral, herbal, piney and grassy hops, Rich tropical fruits like mango, dragon fruit, papaya, guava, passion fruit, lychee, honey dew melon,blue basil, oregano, lemon peel, garlicky, oniony, dankness, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, honey dew melon, tangerines, oranges, hints of sweetened condensed milk and milk coconut.

Flavors:
Rich hop flavors or citrus, grapefruit, floral, herbal, piney and grassy hops, biscuit bread, lemon peel, tangerine, oranges, caramel hints, super dank oniony and garlicky notes, oregano, basil, Italian herbs, Rich tropical fruits like papaya, mango, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee, coconut hints, stone fruit apricots, peaches, plums, sweetened condensed milk and honey.

Aftertaste:
Sweet tropical notes, honey, herbs, citrus and grapefruit hops, dank oniony and garlic notes linger
No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink despite the ABV, clear body, silky mouthfeel, crisp and refreshing.

Overall:
In comparison to when I had this over 2 years ago, they really perfected the freshness in this beer. This is super well balanced giving those tropical fruits I really love along with the hoppy, herbal and dank notes. So as to coming close to what I would think would be some of the best IPAs in the world like Pliny the Elder, Heady Topper and the new Power Plant, I would like to say, YES!! Ofcourse it is a player in the best IPAs. It is closer to Pliny in the herbal hoppy department but since it is balanced with tropical notes, It comes close to Power Plant too. Either way, maybe there is a reason they tell you to drink it fresh. Either way, great beer and a must have. Don’t worry, if you miss this one, they release it almost year round.

Anime Corner:
Morrigan Aensland from Dark Stalkers was used in this pairing long ago since she stands atop a stone gargoyle representing the Stone brewery. Her hair colors pair well with the label and those melons, I mean…. umm colors of the artwork represent the herbal and tropical complexities of of the beer flavors. Yes this beer is damn sexy and taste great!

Sources:
http://img1.ak.crunchyroll.com/i/spire4/1f1100e5ab84c8a3e2e8d7acb1bba84a1396195257_full.jpg
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/4bc03-jmorriganaensland.jpg

Horchata Imperial Stout by Belching Beaver

November 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belching Beaver, Betterman, Caramel, Chocolate, Cinnamon, coffee, Horchata, Horchata Imperial Milk Stout, Horchata Imperial Stout, Imperial Milk Stout, Milk Stout, Milk Sugar, Sai Hinoki, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Horchata Imperial Stout by Belching Beaver is a 9% ABV Imperial Milk Stout brewed with Horchata flavors.

Label:
Hecho En Vista , CA.

Made for our 2nd anniversary beer. Our Horchata Imperial Milk Stout is a salute to our over the border brothers who are making some fine craft beer. One of our brewers “Ivan the Terrible” lives in TJ and commutes to start his shift here at 2:00AM. He is also in charge of making our casks. When he made this Horchata with our own Milk Stout, we thought it was fantastic. Troy brewed it as an Imperial Stout and we just love it. Thought you might too. Notes of Coffee, Chocolate and Cinnamon.

-Tom
___

Belching Beaver has been making some crazy and delicious beers starting with the Peanut Butter Milk Stout. That beer is possibly one of the best Peanut butter beers ever. This time, they released an Horchata one and and to be honest, this just sounds way too good to be true. Even far fewer are there any Horchata beers out there and all the ones I have tried are very delicious. So let us see how this version does. Salud!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate abuelita, mocha, churros, milk sugar, rice pudding, dark fruit raisins, cherries, brown sugar, molasses, dulce de lecher caramel, toffee, ginger bread cookies, flan, pecan pie, almond milk, earthy notes, Kahlua, hazelnut, molasses, mint, anise and chocolate chip oatmeal cookies.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate abuelita, Rich Horchata notes, chocolate churros, Dark fruit raisins, cherries, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, mocha, chocolate mousse, chocolate truffles, roasted coffee, flan, sweetened condensed milk lechera, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, tapioca, Khalua, anise, molasses, chocolate cherries, toffee, milk sugar, ginger bread, almond milk, pecan pie, burnt sugar, hazelnut, brown sugar and rock candy.

Aftertaste:
Horchata, milk sugar, cinnamon, rice pudding, chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, mocha, roasty notes and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste, smooth and creamy mouthfeel, should be a sipper but drinks way too easy, full black body.

Overall:
Damn… just simply damn… So much Horchata and chocolate flavors here and the crazy part is that it drinks very smooth too since it is still a milk stout. The crazy thing is that it is crafted as an imperial so you really cannot tell the alcohol even though it is heavy. Definitely exceeding my expectations and being one of the best close to Horchata beers just like the other great Horchata beers I have tried before.

Anime Corner:
Sai Hinoki from Betterman was used in this pairing since hair colors pair with the colors of the label and the Mexican flag. Also, there is a version out there of Horchata that is made in Oaxaca called Horchata con Tuna y Nuez and the colors make the Horchata have a pink layer and the nuez is the walnuts. Adding fruit makes it like an Horchata cocktail. So that fits the flavors of the beer somewhat and the hair color as well. The fact that she is next to some kind of ancient ruin holding some kind of gem represents the indigenous roots of the beverage in terms of the ancient civilization, the label’s animal on the flag and the fact that this dessert is a rich treasure just like that gem she holds.

Sources:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquahds/1182929665276.jpg

The Kaiser from the Dictator Series by Avery brewing

November 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Avery, Avery Brewing, Dictator Series, Marzen, Oktoberfest, Selvaria Bles, The Kaiser, Valkyria Chronicles, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

The Kaiser from the Dictator Series by Avery brewing is a 9.5% ABV World Class Imperial Märzen / Oktoberfest Lager.

Label:
MALT LIQUOR
The Kaiser once said, “Give me a woman who loves beer and I will conquer the world.” If the Kaiser and his significant other had tipped this bottle, we’d all be “sprechenden Deutsch!” We took all that is good in a traditional Oktoberfest – gorgeous, deep copper sheen, massive malty backbone and spicy, floral, pungent noble hops – then intensified each into this, an Imperial Oktoberfest.
___

Yes, so unfortunately I missed Oktoberfest this beer to attend the Black Tuesday release party. However, any time is a great time to enjoy a Märzen / Oktoberfest and this one has been an eluding one simply because I have not had a chance to find it. When I saw it this year, I knew I had to pick it up. This is an imperial Märzen / Oktoberfest so I do not know what to expect but since I have love this style I am sure this is gonna be pretty intense at 9.5% ABV. Let’s get on with this beer now, Prost!

Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, biscuit bread, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, pumpkin flesh, maple syrup, pilloncillo sugar cone, Danish Cookies, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger spice, fruit cake, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, bananas, graham crackers, trail mix and bananas.

Flavors:
Rich dulce de leche caramel, citrus, blueberry, black berry, grape and raspberry preserves, rye bread, coriander spice, bananas, Danish cookies, brown sugar, pumpkin spices, cinnamon, ginger, fruit cake, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, pilloncillo sugar cone, graham crackers, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, toffee, bananas, trail mix, leathery notes and butterscotch.

Aftertaste:
Rye bread, cinnamon, pumpkin flesh, citrus, dark fruit, berry preserves in rye bread, Danish cookies and earthy notes. Slight booziness but not detracting from the flavors, medium to full amber body, syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn, possibly the best Oktoberfest beer I have ever had! I think the fact that Avery uses specialty ingredients or special yeast that is like a sweet maple like flavor that I have tried in some of their other amazing beers. Well, that in combination with the style is simply rich and delicious. If this was the main Oktoberfest beer everywhere, damn, not sure how long I would be able to be like Zicke, zacke, zicke, zacke, hoi, hoi, hoi, before I pass out. Yeah this one is rich and definitely highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Selvaria Bles from Valkyria Chronicles was used in this pairing since I wanted to get something that would pair with the Kaizer. Selvarias clothing and pose compliments that of the Kaizer in the label. The caramel sunset and color of her hair and overall artwork represents many of the flavors of the beer. The strength of a leader and general is the strength of the complexity and the ABV this beer offers.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/247253

Provenance (Orange & Grapefruit) by Jester King

November 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged ao no exorcist, Farmhouse Ale, grapefruit, jester king, orange, Provenance, Provenance Orange & Grapefruit, Saison, Shura Kirigakure, Wild ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Provenance (Orange & Grapefruit) by Jester King is a 5.6% ABV Saison/Farmhouse Ale brewed and fermented with Oranges and Grapefruit.

Label:
In The Beginning there were only four but Someone bade them “Be fruitful and multiply”, so fruitfully, they multiplied. Maxima and Reticulata Begat Sinensi. Maxima and Sinensis Begat Paradisi. Sinensis and Reticula begat Nobilis, all on Someone’s command. Then Someone decide to squeeze them, crush them, and pulverize their skins, and to allow all of their sweetness to be consumed by invisible, microscopic, creatures so that they could be transformed into a delicious beverage for Someone to drink. Someone is a bit of jerk.

Jester King is an authentic farmhouse brewery in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, on the outskirts of Austin. We brew what we like, drink what we want and offer the rest to those who share our tastes.

ALC/VOL 5.6% FG 1,000 pH 3.5

Ingredients Hill County Well Water, Malted Barley, Malted Wheat Orange, Grapefruit, Hops, Farmhouse Yeast, Wild Yeast from the Texas Hill Country, Native Souring Bacteria.

Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans

Notes: Our first batch of Provenance takes the vibrant flavors and aromas from the est and juice of Texas oranges and grapefruits presents them in the unique way that only wild fermentation with native yeast and bacteria can do Unfiltered, unpasteurized and 100% bottle conditioned.
___

The poor bastards… and I do say this because my breakfast juicing does contain grapefruit and oranges so I know I do all that brutal stuff to Oranges and Grapefruit as I peel their skins and crush them in the blender. Thanks to from good friend Aaron Mendiola from www.beermetaldude.com who got me this awesome beer. You should definitely check out his Rockin’ reviews. The right Metal song for the right beer and epicness. So this beer is all about the saison/wild ale base along with the oranges and grapefruit. I can only imagine that this is gonna be rich, sweet, bitter and funky for sure. Let’s take a stroll down the Provenance.

Aromas:
Orange and grapefruit covered oak, funky notes, flowers, lemon peel, champagne, farmhouse hay, tejuino, tamarind hints, biscuit bread,stone fruit apricots, peaches, peppercorns, lychee, honey, plant notes, herbs and coriander spice.

Flavors:
Oranges, Grapefruit, farmhouse hay, lemon peel vanilla, biscuit bread, peppercorn, flowers, funky oak, honey, stone fruit peaches, apricots, strawberries, white grapes, celery, grassy hops, basil, clove spice, tejuino, red apples, sour green apples, coriander spice, champagne, tamarind, ginger, lychee and honey notes.

Aftertaste:
Bitter lemon peel, Grapefruit juice and peel, Orange peels, white grapes, coriander spice, grassy hops, flowers and peppercorn. No alcohol in the taste, crisp and refreshing, easy to drink, hazy pale milky body and smooth mouth feel.

Overall:
Well well, the lore of a great saison has many stories to tell about the journey of the Orange and the Grapefruit. In this instance, the addition of them makes this very perfect. Way too perfect. All in conjunction with the base saison/farmhouse ale this one became more of a tart orange sweet beer. There is a lot of sweet, bitter and sour flavors in this one so if you love saisons or wild ales, take this one for a spin.

Anime Corner:
Shura Kirigakure from Ao no Exorcist was used in this beer to pair with the orange and grapefruit. As you can see her hair is both red and orange like the color of grapefruit and oranges. The fact that she is an exorcist kind of goes with the mystical aspect of the label. It looks like a special seal or glyph to do some kind of magic. That what this beer really is though, a rich and delicious magic potion.

Sources:
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Ao-no-Exorcist-Shura-350489476

Burnt Caramel by Clown Shoes brewing

November 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Brown ale, Brown ale, Burnt Caramel, Caramel, Clown Shoes Brewing, dulce de caramel, flan, Korra, Legend of Korra | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Burnt Caramel by Clown Shoes brewing is a 7% ABV American Brown Ale brewed with Caramel.

Label:
Hello, my name is Caramel God. This American Brown Ale has five hundred pounds of burnt caramel in it, provided by Toscanini’s Ice Cream in Cambridge, MA. Pray to whoever you will or worship me as I hover over an endless ocean of ice cream cones. Either way, may you find enlightenment.
___

An American Brown with caramel. Just the thought of how this beer was made let me know I really wanted to get it. I like some brown ales but it is not my up most favorite of styles but the ones I have reviewed here on the site are definitely worth it. This one seems very tasty from what I saw that I definitely had to bring this one to the site. So let’s get it started here and dig into rich caramel bliss.

Aromas:
Pecan pie, hazelnut, earthy notes, biscuit bread, dulce de leche, vanilla, toffee, brown sugar, cinnamon, milk chocolate hints, dark fruit raisins, figs, cherries, plum hints, oak hints, butterscotch, coconut hints, marshmallow hints, flan and molasses.

Flavors:
Rich Dulce de leche caramel, Rich Toffee, pecan pie, brown sugar, flan, biscuit bread, buttered toasted bread, dark fruit raisins, figs, cherries, plums, Burnt Caramel from a wooden box, oak hints, butterscotch, honey, hazelnut nectar, molasses, milk chocolate notes, crème brulee, toasted coconut, mild hints of rocky road, marshmallow and mild cinnamon.

Aftertaste:
Earthy notes, rye bread, buttered toast, earthy notes, dulce de leche caramel, toffee and brown sugar. No alcohol in the taste, medium to full brown body, silky and slightly buttery mouthfeel, medium drinkability.

Overall:
DAMN, now that’s rich! It goes down really good. If you like caramel especially burn caramel, this small bit of cloying caramel sweetness bit may or may not be your thing, but I love it. Possibly the best brown ale I have ever had and truly defines some of the unique characteristics that I love from brown ales. The caramel is the one that stands out the most and it is the parts that makes me love this beer. I highly recommend this one for sure.

Anime Corner:
Korra from the Legend of Korra, art work by Genzoman, was used in this pairing to showcase the caramel God. While the caramel God does look indigenous in a way and was a wielder of the elements, it fit well with Korra as she has like an indigenous looking style as well and wields the elements. Ech of the elements representing different things like burnt caramel, earthy notes, silky mouthfeel and whiff of rich aromas.

Sources:
http://genzoman.deviantart.com/art/Korra-400880808

Señor Viejo by Twisted X brewing

November 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Dia de los Muertos, Imperial Black Lager, Jack Daniels, oak barrels, schwarzbier, Señor Viejo, Tequila Barrel Aged, Twisted X brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Señor Viejo by Twisted X brewing is an 8.8% ABV Schwarzbier/Imperial Black Lager Aged in Tequila Oak Barrels

Description:
This Schwarzbier has been “imperialized” (alcohol content increased) and then left to age in tequila barrels (used Jack Daniels barrels which are then used by Republic Tequila to age there tequila to Repasado or Anejo styles). Aging this unique beer in tequila barrels adds subtle flavors of vanilla and oak while the tequila adds a mild citrus/agave sweetness. At 8.2% alcohol by volume Senor Viejo is our strongest, most seasoned beer. About the name: Senor Viejo meaning “very old man” or “the old one”. Schwarzbier, or “black beer”, is a German dark lager beer. It has an opaque, black color and a full, chocolaty or coffee flavor. Although they share some similar flavors they are milder tasting and less bitter than British stouts or porters, owing to the use of lager rather than ale yeast and no roasted barley.

About the name:
Señor Viejo meaning “very old man” or “the old one” or “Veteran”. Schwarzbier, or “black beer”, is a German dark lager beer. It has an opaque, black color and a full, chocolaty or coffee flavor. Although they share some similar flavors they are milder tasting and less bitter than British stouts or porters, owing to the use of Mexican lager rather than ale yeast and no roasted barley.
___

Now this is very interesting… A Tequila Oak aged Black Lager. First of all, Tequila barrel aged beers are far few in between and to be able to have a lager one, that is is amazing. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this little bit of Texas gold. Now we can have one here on the site to share with the world. Many of the Tequila barrel aged beers have been, well, exceeding my expectations or just great. With this, I will see how it stands in comparison, but then again, this one seem more of the kind I would like to drink several of. We shall see, for now, Salud!

Aromas:
Roasted notes, mild earthy notes, dark chocolate, anise, molasses, oak hints, tequila, agave, dark fruit hints like raisins, figs and cherries, caramel, vanilla, smokey hints, brown sugar, rye bread, oatmeal cookies and mild tobacco.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, spiced chocolate, milk chocolate, oak, tequila, mezcal, agave, vanilla, caramel, roasted notes, smokey notes, earthy notes, citrus, oatmeal cookies, leather, tobacco, molasses, rye bread, anise, walnuts, pecan pie, herbs, earthy hops, brown sugar, dark fruit raisins, figs and cherries.

Aftertaste:
Leaving some pecan pie, roasted notes, earthy dark chocolate, oak, tequila hints, agave and dark fruit hints. No alcohol in the taste. Brown full body, creamy and smooth mouthfeel, medium to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious. This beer is pretty close to a Baltic Porter in the use of lager yeast. The complexities are there from Baltic Porters but the addition of Tequila aging adds some very special flavors to it and also the slight smokey flavors keeps this one interesting as well reminding you of the oak. There aren’t many lagers that make it high in the ratings since they are lagers and mainly low in alcohol but this beer is special just like some of the awesome lagers I have had in the past. The much stronger ABV ones ofcourse. Seek this one out!

Anime Corner:
Skeleton Angel original character was used in this pairing to signify mortality, Mexican tradition of dia de los muertos and to pair with the label. It goes to show, like Señor Viejo, everyone grows old and will eventually meet their own demise but not before enjoying your life and living for what it is worth. The golden hair represents the oak and tequila as well as the label. Great stuff.

Sources:
http://hqwallbase.com/images/big/skeleton_angel-1509823.jpg

Lips of Faith series Gruit by New Belgium

November 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Ancient Herbed Ale, Bog Myrtle, Elderflowers, Gruit, Horehound, Lips of Faith, new belgium brewing, Scottish Gruit, Touhou, Touhou Project, wormwood, Yarrow, Yasaka Kanako | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.85/5

Lips of Faith series Gruit by New Belgium is a 6.66% ABV Scottish Gruit/Ancient Herbed Ale brewed with Bog Myrtle, Horehound, Yarrow, wormwood and Elderflowers added.

Label:
Experimentation doesn’t mean new. With our Gruit, the latest Lips of Faith release, it’s all about revisiting the ancient craft of bittering with herb mixtures, not hops. In here horehound, bog myrtle, yarrow, wormwood and elderflowers get together with rich malts to create a bitter, dry, velvet-like sweetness worth revering.
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The one Lips of Faith series I had missed this year, now we have it here for the review. Lips of faith series ranges from delicious to very good. There hasn’t been one from this series I truly hated except maybe Pluot, but I can’t really as maybe it was a bad bottle or my taste buds were not feeling it. This style is something I have never tried and it is interesting to see this as they use ancient bittering techniques of using flowers and herbs instead of hops. Really intriguing I should say. Let’s get this one going and see how it plays out.

Aromas:
Lots of herbs, honey, biscuit bread, vanilla, green tea, yerbabuena/peppermint, peppercorns, berries, apples, clove spice, banana hints, lemon peel, citrus, grassy and grapefuit hops, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender and barnyard hay.

Flavors:
Flowers, coriander spice, yerbabuena/peppermint, peppercorns, biscuit bread, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, bananas, clove spice, phenolic notes, herbal tea, green tea, vanilla, honey, citrus, grassy and grapefruit hops, barnyard hay, lemon peel, oak hints, Golden ale notes, apples and mild berry notes.

Aftertaste:
Peppercorn, flowers, spices, honey, peppermint, herbs, green tea and grassy hop notes. No alcohol in the taste, crisp and refreshing, easy to moderate drinkability, watery yet smooth mouthfeel and clear yellow body.

Overall:
While this beer was very good, I couldn’t help but notice how close this beer is to a Belgian Golden Ale but more herbed. I think the herbs really worked to bitter out some of the beer flavors but maybe it was a little too herbed for my taste. A very good beer but for some reason the herbs were a bit much but it was great to try this one for sure. I’d say give it a try even if once.

Anime Corner:
Yasaka Kanako from the Touhou Project series was used in this pairing to show the power of herbs. In ancient times, they were used as magic to heal the sick and even to this day, natural remedies are used to do miracles. Something about the plants have the power to bring life and make people better. As seen in this art pairing I really wanted to make a point to state that about the herbal sweetness of this beer.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1371952

Snörkel by Jester King brewing

November 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Bitter, Farmhouse Ale, jester king, Oyster Mushrooms, Saison, salty, Sea Salt, Snörkel, sour, sweet, umami, Wild ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Snörkel by Jester King brewing is a 4.8% ABV Saison/Farmhouse Ale brewed with Oyster Mushrooms and Sea Salt.

Label:
Just beneath the surface , the under currants begin to pull and guide an exploration, a pulsing kinesis into hidden depths. Its pathways are ghostly filaments laid out side by side and stretched endlessly across the universe. Serenely, they resonate, their soft hum producing the harmony of existence. Gilled bodies curiously emerge from the obscurity and generate a returned interest. They are vessels for a future passage.

ALC/VOL 4.8% FG 1,000 pH3.4

Ingredients Hill County Well Water, Malted Barley, Malted Wheat, Oyster Mushrooms, Sea Salt, Hops, Farmhouse Yeast, Wild Yeast from the Texas Hill Country, Native Souring Bacteria.

CONTAINS WHEAT
Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans

Notes:
Snörkel is brewed with oyster mushrooms from Logro Farms in Austin, Texas and alderwood smoked sea salt. It takes inspiration from traditional German Gose, but sets out to explore the curiosities of umami. Unfiltered, unpasturized, 100% bottle conditioned.
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From the brimy deep, comes this Umami Flavored (Salty, sweet, sour, bitter) beer which was fished out of the great depths of Jester King’s great oak barrels by my friend Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com. This beer to me was like, I have to have it especially since it was not only a deep sea kind of beer but the use of the oyster mushrooms and salt with a saison, it really appealed to me. So here we have it, the great donation of Snörkel. Cheers!

Aromas:
Funky oak, pepper corn, flowers, mushroom, mild smokey notes, apple hints, lime peel, stone fruit, vegetable hints, ginger spice hints, berries, farmhouse hay, tamarind hints, tejuino, biscuit bread and champagne.

Flavors:
Funky oak, Sea Salt, Oyster notes, mushroom plant notes, mild tomato hints, flowers, floral notes, biscuit bread, honey, farmhouse hay, agave hints, lime peel, seaweed hints, ginger hints, green apples, red apples, champagne, white grapes, peppercorn, stone fruit, smokey notes, oak, smoked mushrooms, coriander spice, tejuino, tamarind hints, biscuit bread, elderberries, strawberries, stone fruit peach, apricot, basil, grassy hops, white grapes and celery.

Aftertaste:
Bitter lemon, mushrooms, celery, citrus, salty, smokey, mild hop hints and coriander spice. No alcohol in the taste, crisp and refreshing, easy to drink, hazy pale milky body and smooth mouth feel.

Overall:
Damn good saison. I can already see this fitting as one of the best sea food pairings. If you are not into salty or sour beers, this one may not be for you. I have to admit that Salty and sour or bitter (even extreme sweetness) is something I enjoy so a palate that really enjoys these will like this one. Despite the ABV, a lot of salty, sour, sweet, smokey and bitter things are going on here. I will recommend it if you have a palate for the salty, sour, bitter and sweet type of beers.

Anime Corner:
Original Mermaid character was used in this pairing since it matches with the salty deep blue sea of the label and ingredients. She emerges and sits around the coral like the oyster mushrooms seem to sit like corral themselves on the ocean floor. Salty like the seawater, sweet like the beauty of the corral, sour like that wild yeast which is alive in the liquid beer and bitter like the plants of the sea floor as well.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/318866-1439×900-original-kimyamya+%28artist%29-wide+image-light+erotic-red+eyes-breasts.jpg

Blackwater Series Mokah by Southern Tier

November 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 2014 White Chocolate, American Imperial Stout, attack on titan, blackwater series, coffee, Imperial Stout, Mikasa Ackerman, Mocha, Mocha Wednesday, Mokah, Souther Tier | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Blackwater Series Mokah by Southern Tier is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Chocolate & Coffee.

Label:
Color: black. Body: full. Bitterness: medium. Pair: roasted or smoked foods, chocolate desserts.

Imagine the life of a coffee bean. From its humble beginnings high up on a mountainside to a transformation through roasting, and yet another in grinding then add hot water for a most bitter perfection. Think of cocoa and its similar transformations. A pod matures to bear seeds, the seeds are roasted and refined. How could these things be any better?

Best of Both Worlds

As scientists, our brewers use exacting standards. As artists, they couldn’t resist the inimitable expression of two of the world’s most sought after flavors. Enjoy Mokah stout with – or as – your favorite dessert. Cheers!
southerntierbrewing.com.

25° plato; 2-row malt; caramel malt; chocolate malt; black malt; roasted coffee beans; natural chocolate flavor; columbus hops.
42° F
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An awesome shout out to Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com who hooked me up with this rich goodie. Southern Tier is a rarity among these parts and I know I have seen this one or some of the other beers at Ramirez but this one peaked my curiosity especially since this was a chocolate and coffee beer. Some of the other beers I have had from them are very rich and delicious especially Choklat and Creme Brulee. So this one is the next in line to grace the presence here at the site. Thanks one again to Aaron for hooking me up with this sweet dessert, thanks brother! Now…. on to the review.

Aromas:
Rich Mocha coffee, Khalua, Milk chocolate shake, dark chocolate, Starbucks coffee, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, whipped cream, vanilla beans, almond joy, hazelnut ice cream, rocky road ice cream, oreo cookies, chocolate chip cookies, dark fruits like raisins, currants, figs, dark cherries, tres leches/three milks cake, anise, molasses, tobacco, brown sugar, rich maple syrup, Reese’s peanut butter cups, specialty coffee, Bailey’s coffee liqueur, pecan pie, raspberries, choco flan and crème brulee.

Flavors:
Rich Mocha, choco flan, crème brulee, maple syrup, Khalua, Coffee, coffee cake, Reese’s peanut buttercups, brown sugar, specialty fancy coffee, molasses, dark fruit raisins, currants, figs, dark cherry yogurt hints, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, pistachio icecream, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, toasted coconut, vanilla, vanilla cream, tres leches/three milks cake, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate chip cookies, oreos, Leche Nestle sweetened condensed milk, espresso, roasted coffee beans, java, latte, whipped cream frappucino, Bailey’s Irish cream coffee liqueur, marshmallow smores, chambord raspberry liqueur, See’s coffee candy, butterscotch, German chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate shake, dark chocolate, Belgian chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, fudge chocolate, vanilla beans, anise, tobacco, mocha syrup and toasted cashews.

Aftertaste:
Chocolate, Coffee, Mocha, vanilla, maple syrup, Reese’s peanut butter, pecan pie, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mild earthy notes, coconut, marshmallow smores, burnt sugar, dark fruit and bitter dark chocolate lingers for a long time. No alcohol in the taste, velvety and creamy mouthfeel, easy and smooth to drink despite the ABV, Full dark coffee black body.

Overall:
The best Chocolate coffee beer if not Mocha Wednesday, then ever! This beer is supreme in the chocolate and coffee mix of beers. It is so rich that I feel like pouring it like a syrup over ice cream just like some of those super Bruery beers. Some how, these beers don’t need barrel aging to stand stronger and really take that leap above the expectations of taste and beer experience. Highly recommend checking this delicious bottle out. Now I have to find it here. Hope they will have it nearby soon.

Anime Corner:
Mikasa Ackerman from Attack On Titan was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair the colors of great coffee, chocolate, caramel and red cherries. Each article of clothing and her hair represent these and as she flies through the air it represents the smoothness and the quick strike like a bad ass ninja is what really hits that sweet spot that not many beers can. Everything about this pairing seems to fit nicely.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/306050-1073×700-shingeki+no+kyojin-production+i.g-mikasa+ackerman-alicexz-single-short+hair.jpg

Black Hole Sun by Black Market brewing

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Black Hole, Black Hole Sun, Black Market, Black Market Brewing, Dark Lord, Imperial Stout, Krystal, Krystal Fox, Nintendo, Russian Imperial Stout, Sound Garden, Space, Star Fox | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Black Hole Sun by Black Market brewing is a 15% ABV Russian Imperial Stout.

Label:
Because of the gravitational pull of Black Hole Sun, no light can escape. This super high gravity Russian Imperial Stout is brewed with 100% barley and zero added sugar. Black Hole Sun will make a fine evening companion. Let it warm a bit to enjoy its entire magnitude of flavor complexities.
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Black Hole Sun, just like the Sound Garden song. This beer is something I have been meaning to try for a very very long time and never had a chance to get it. I have to give a special thanks to my friend Julio for hooking me up with this special beer. Many of the Black Market beers I have tried have been pretty epic but just the 15% ABV is enough to realize, this ain’t a muddaF’ing game. This is serious business. Funny part, I did not even check the ABV until I started this review which I realized was very intense from the aromas. This was certainly starting to remind me of a “Dark” beer I had long ago that was also a Russian Imperial Stout… So let us check this one out and see what it is about.

Aromas:
Rich Dark fruit, dark cherries, cherry cordial, soy sauce, plum sauce, yogurt like notes, oak, Kahlua, apples, molasses, chocolate cake, currants, raspberry notes, rye bread, brown sugar, pecan pie, flan hints, maple syrup, salted caramel, dulce de leche caramel, walnuts, hazelnut nectar, dark chocolate cake, pecan pie, spicy roasted coffee, smokey notes, graham cracker and marshmallow smores.

Flavors:
An intense explosion of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cherry cordial, dark fruit plums, raspberries, currants, blackberries, molasses, pilloncillo sugar cone, maple syrup, molasses, plum sauce, soy sauce, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, salted caramel, hazelnut nectar, Kahlua hints, pecan pie, rye caramel, spicy roasted coffee, vanilla, oak, flan, cinnamon, graham cracker and marshmallow smores, bourbon notes, anise, tobacco, leather notes and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruit raisins, dark cherry, earthy notes, tobacco, dark cherries, molasses, dark and milk chocolate. The alcohol is very subtle despite the ABV, Pitch Black Body to a darkness that does not even exist, sipping drinkability and a thick and syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
Extremely Epic and definitely up close next to the Dark Lord Imperial Stout but not as sugary or fancy coffee epicness from the Unicorn’s Blood Coffee. It is almost like the base Dark Lord with no coffee and not as sugary but still very complex it is crazy. This beer plays off like if it was barrel aged with like flavor intensity but it is still just a Russian Imperial Stout. I think in mind and after reviewing this intense and awesome beer, I realized how close it was to Dark Lord RIS. Ofcourse, Dark Lord RIS is on another level, but this can still compete on the playing field as this is California’s own Black Market Brewing bringing this. I highly recommend getting this one or two. You definitely want to age this massive intensity.

Anime Corner:
Krystal Fox from Star Fox was the perfect cadet for this interplanetary mission to the Black Hole Sun. She has survived the suns of Immelmann (Hangar 24 reference) so even something like this should be a piece of cake. She pairs extremely well with the label colors, complex dark fruit flavors and space travel. The sweetness is represented in her cuteness but the fact that Krystal is a warrior of land and space just speaks of strength. Star Fox has seen some Black Hole travels in the past so exploring a beer like this and trying to figure out its complexity is just the beginning of that dark space in a glass.

Sources:
http://luigiix.deviantart.com/art/StarFox-BH-Team-Krystal-468606829?q=gallery%3Aluigiix%2F34891205&qo=23

Peanut Butter Milk Stout by Belching Beaver Brewery

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belching Beaver, Blazblue, chocolate peanut butter, makoto nanaya, Milk Stout, peanut butter, Peanut Butter Milk Stout, Reese's Peanut Butter cup, Sweet Stout | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/5

Peanut Butter Milk Stout by Belching Beaver Brewery is a 5.3% ABV Milk/Sweet Stout brewed with peanut butter flavors

Label:
It’s All about the Beaver

Belching Beaver Brewery’s Peanut Butter Milk Stout. Feel Free to use it for Ice Cream floats. We made this beer for fun, and it has become a local favorite. So we thought, may as well bottle some. This beer says, even hard working Beavers can play around once in a while. We hope you love it too. If you do, let us know on Facebook if you don’t, call Troy directly and tell him. His head is getting just a little too big around the brew pad anyway.

This beer is refreshingly smooth. Tastes if roasted coffee, chocolate and peanut butter. Brewed with rolled pats and lactose, this beer has a silky smooth mouth feel finish. Don’t let the color fool you; this dark beer is easy drinking

Cheers,

Tom

Ingredients: Water, Malt, Oats, Lactose Hops, Yeast, Ethyl Alcohol and Natural Flavors
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As requested by my friend Oscar, I had to bring this one forth to the site. There have been very few peanut butter beers except for the awesome cocoa crispies tasting peanut butter cup porter from Karl Strauss or the the liquid bliss from Terrapin that I conciser awesome. I figure that getting this one is a good opportunity to bring forth another rare piece of craft brew recipe forward. Thanks for the beers Oscar 😀

Aromas:
Damn good peanut butter Reese’s butter cup aromas, dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, vanilla, peanut brittle, rye bread, mocha coffee, nutter butter peanut butter cookies, milk sugar, caramel, toffee and mild earthy notes

Flavors:
Lots of roasted peanuts with shells, peanut butter, nutter butter cookies, toffee, roasted coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, earthy hops, Reese’s peanut butter puffs cereal, buttered rye toast notes, lactose milk sugar, and molasses

Aftertaste:
Peanut butter, rye hints, earthy hops and coffee notes linger. Nice a smooth, easy drinking and no alcohol in the taste.

Overall:
Great beer! Even if only 5.3% ABV, it set to what is supposed to do, taste like peanut butter and coffee bitterness for balance. Despite the fact that it says natural flavors or Ethyl alcohol (which created upon fermentation), do not believe the the artificiality. There is nothing artificial about this beer. It is craft brewed to perfection, set out to what it was intended, and that is rich dark roasty peanut butter and chocolate coffee flavors. Highly recommended. This one really is closer to peanut butter than the other other beers I have tried.

Anime Corner:
Makoto Nanaya from Blazblue was paired perfectly with this beer because not only did I want to show the label colors, but she is a nutty girl. She may not be a beaver, but she is a squirrel and squirrels love nuts. You can see how she tears up pine cones like she tears up nuts. Either way, with the rich flavors of peanut butter that are given from this beer, I couldn’t think of any other awesome characters to pair this beer with.

2014 Darkness by Surly brewing

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Black Magic, Bourbon Barrel Aged, dark chocolate, Evil, harpy, High West Rye Whiskey Barrels, Kill-LA-Kill, Lord of Darkness, milk Chocolate, passion fruit, Russian Imperial Stout, Rye Whiskey Barrels, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Surly Brewing, Surly Darkness 2014 | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.2/5

2014 Darkness by Surly brewing is a 10.4% ABV Russian Imperial Stout aged in High West Rye Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
Covet the Darkness
The legendary Harpy tortured unwary travelers by stealing their precious food and drink. This year’s cruel creature defends her cauldron of Darkness with razor claws and a dead stare of malevolence. Don’t mess with her Darkness.

She’s hoarding this massively opaque barrel aged Stout screaming with notes of chocolate, coffee, dried tart cherries, vanilla, rye whisky and raisins. The thick body of this Russian Imperial Stout finishes sweet, with a piney resinous hop character.

Dare if you will to open the bottle and steal from the imagination of our 2014 Darkness artist, Erica Williams.

See more at: http://mnbeer.com/2014/07/29/darkness-2014-artwork-from-erica-williams/#sthash.HpMuBrV3.dpuf

Omar Ansari
Todd Haug
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As Rick James would say: Darkness… darkness is spreading, black, midnight, evil, black magic, raw darkness and cold as ice. This beer is all that and more and especially since this year’s version is barrel aged. The 2013 was insane too but to try this one, well let’s just say this one may only be better than the original but we will definitely have to see how dark this beer goes and if we can even come out of this evil beer alive. Either way, maybe you should still consider getting this one even if don’t read further. The Devil’s water is pretty sweet!

Aromas:
Rich bananas, old matured bananas, rich mango, rich matured bananas, plantains, oranges citrus, grapefruit, papaya, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherries, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, whiskey, oak , vanilla, rye bread on black berry toast, leather, tobacco, anise, mint, stone fruit, peaches, apricots, flan, sweetened condensed milk lechera, dragon fruit, passion fruit, guava, honey, brown sugar, pecan pie, marshmallow smores, toasted coconut and molasses.

Flavors:
Rich bananas, plantains, whipped cream, pecan pie, rich matured bananas, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, chocolate covered mango, vanilla, oak, bourbon, whiskey, leather, tobacco, toasted bread on blackberry jam , dulce de leche caramel, oak, rye bread , dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, mocha, roasted coffee, brown sugar, cherry Dr. pepper, rocky road ice cream, maple syrup, stone fruit peaches and cream, molasses, grapefruit, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, citrus, oranges, flan, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, anise, raspberries, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, toasted coconut, flan, earthy notes, mild rum, brandy, almond joy, pecan pie, herbs, fruit cake, sweetened condensed milk lechera, brown sugar and honey.

Aftertaste:
Very rich banana, dark chocolate, mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, Earthy notes, dulce de leche, vanilla, oak, bourbon, whiskey rye bread, dark fruits like raisins, blackberry preserves, leather, coconut, dark cherries, fruit cake, pecan pie and more! No alcohol In the taste despite it’s ambiguity, smooth and silky yet syrupy mouthfeel, dangerously easy to drink but should be sipping, pitch black body beyond the chaos and unseen realms of dimensional dark existence.

Overall:
If the original wasn’t as awesome, how about aging it in some really nice High West Rye Whiskey Barrels to amplify this one into further realms of taste, smell and overall, beer experience. This one just kept pushing and pushing and pushing deeper and deeper into the abyss of flavors to the point where I was not sure if I got everything I tasted. All I knew was just how damn great this was. I am sure the 2014 Dark Lord Barrel Aged would do just the same but that Barrel aging surely brought it to the new level that mainly says to really search this one out. It is no joke. It is damn good.

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill LA Kill was used once again in this special pairing. One of my favorite anime girls makes her return in her evil form. In the show, when she is brainwashed, she is forced to wear Junketsu which is that white uniform she has making her way stronger than her original form and pure evil. There is a lot of blood spilled when they try to fight her and her spilling of blood and tearing up a wedding dress is like that of the harpy in the label. She is sweet but she is not so forgiving in this form. While this is not her ultimate form, which she becomes more of an angel, this fits the evil in her heart when she really lost her way and even in the darkness, there is still hope and that is why this beer is very rich and sweet.

Sources:
https://33.media.tumblr.com/0a86c14eface4524e9646bd1a90dd8e2/tumblr_n88xbb0JFw1qfb777o5_500.jpg
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2014/34/1408797252-sample-4000c119b28b5aecc2ae23c16a292504.jpg

Das Überkind by Jester King brewing

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, american oak barrels, Das Überkind, das wunderkind!, Jessica Drew, jester king, Mangaverse, Marvel, oak barrels, Organic Vieille Saison, Saison, Spider-woman, Spiderwoman, Texas, Texas Hill Country, Wild yeast | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Das Überkind by Jester King brewing is a 6% ABV Organic Vieille Saison/Farmhouse ale aged in oak barrels with wild yeast.

Label:
There are moments in our lives that we simply cannot explain; times when we transcend our natural limitations and stand face to face with the boundlessness of the universe, where we see a first glimpse of out own unbounded potential, and suddenly know how to defeat a race of evil intergalactic, time-traveling cyborgs with a single roll of duct tape.

ALC/VOL 6.0% FG 1,000 pH3.3

Ingredients Hill County Well Water, Malted Barley, Malted Wheat, Hops, Farmhouse Yeast, Wild Yeast from the Texas Hill Country, Native Souring Bacteria.

CONTAINS WHEAT
Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans

Notes: Das Überkind, out “old” Saison, is created by blending some of our favorite oak barrels of mature beer fermented with naturally occurring wild yeast and bacteria harvested from the Texas Hill Country. Unfiltered, unpasteurized, and 100% bottle conditioned.
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Das Überkind or “The Ultimate/Super Kid” has finally come to the site thanks to my good friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com. Jester King is on of Texas best when it comes to Saisons and Wild Ales. Some of their stuff is typically hard to obtain especially around here in California. I am thankful for having a great connection to these special beers so I can present them to you in hopes that you try to seek these magic beers for yourself. The Super Kid is a variant of the Wonder Kid but it is much stronger. So let’s explore this one shall we?

Aromas:
Funky oak, farmhouse hay, vanilla, green apples, caramel, pecan pie hints, peach cobbler, musty oak notes, brettanomyces funk, hints of mango, hints of papaya, strawberry hints, pineapple hints, peppercorn, sourdough and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Rich funky oak, green apples, strawberries, stone fruit peaches, plums, apricots, honey, caramel, biscuit bread, white grapes, white wine hints, oranges, lemon peel, pecan pie hints, vanilla, farmhouse hay, mango, papaya, brettanomyces funk, sourdough bread, flowers, coriander spice, peppercorn, grapefruit, toffee hints, leather, and champagne.

Aftertaste:
Funky oak, stone fruit, floral spices, sour dough bread, lemon peel, caramel, vanilla and dry apple hints remain. No alcohol in the flavor, smooth drinkability, easy to drink, hazy medium body, crisp and refreshing.

Overall:
What a perfect Saison. So much flora and bready notes on this one. The sour notes are there but what I think is really ramped up from the original is the complex fruit flavors. It definitely is more richer than the original. Maybe one day they will become more available here in California but for now I would highly request you seek this one especially if you like sours and floral saisons. Thanks Aaron for getting me this one as I really wanted to try and was well worth the wait.

Anime Corner:
Jessica Drew/Spider-woman from Marvel Mangaverse was used in this pairing for the many obvious reason going from the goggles and special helmet of the Super Kid which resembles that of Spider-woman. She also fits well with the colors of the label, the beer and even some of the flavors like the citrus and strawberries. The aspect of Spider-woman being a Super Hero complements the Super Kid.

Sources:
http://jamiefayx.deviantart.com/art/m-m-s-w-colored-by-bakanekonei-42711202

Stone Smoked Porter with Chocolate & Orange Peel by Stone brewing

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Chocolate, Chocolate & Orange Peel, dark chocolate, Marvel, orange peel, Psylocke, Smoked Porter, Stone Brewing, Stone Smoked Porter, X-men | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Stone Smoked Porter with Chocolate & Orange Peel by Stone brewing is a 5.9% ABV American Porter brewed with Chocolate & Orange peel.

Label:
We decided early on that we wouldn’t do seasonal beers for the sake of doing seasonal beers. Summer ales and winter lagers certainly have a ring to them. Big-beer focus groups prove consumers get a kick out of them, and macrobrew marketing analysis suggest they sell well. But for us, beer comes first, much as Stone Smoked Porter came first. Actually, it came second—oddly enough, in the form of a seasonal. Our co-founder and original brewmaster, Steve Wagner, thought it would be an innovative, warming creation suited for winter…and it was. Legend has it Greg’s mom agreed. But rather than relegating fans to nine peat-smoked-porterless months and building revenue-generating fervor for the cold season, we made it a year-round release. Nowadays, we brew a trio of tasty takes on this smoky, sultry vanguard. But the closest they come to being “seasonals” is that they are enhanced with seasonally driven ingredients such as vanilla bean and chipotle peppers. This version, released in the literally gray area separating sunshine and snowfall, incorporates dark chocolate and dried orange peel, making for a semisweet, citrus-nuanced porter that comes across like a break-apart chocolate orange enjoyed by a campfire. It’s not a seasonal—it’s just a phenomenal beer, regardless of the time of year. Throw out the calendar and enjoy.
___

Stone has been coming out with some interesting beers lately. The Stone Smoked porter variants have been some that taste pretty good and really go down well. Nothing too overwhelming but nice notes and flavors. Now this one being their 2014 Fall release, it is interesting as I do not see how chocolate and oranges can work together especially since this one is light to moderate on ABV. Then again I have been surprised many times. Let us take a look and see. You can get this one where ever they sell stone beers now.

Aromas:
Campfire, smoked peat, dark chocolate, orange peel, orange zest, coffee, molasses, caramel, toffee, brown sugar and earthy notes.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, oranges, citrus, orange peel, orange creamsicle hints, vanilla hints, caramel, earthy bitterness, smokey notes, molasses, campfire hints, smoked peat, roasted coffee hints, brown sugar, coriander spice, soy sauce and toffee.

Aftertaste:
Smokey, chocolate, citrus, earthy and vanilla dry notes. No alcohol in the taste, easy to moderate drinkability, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and dark body but can see crimson light pass through.

Overall:
A very good solid beer. It maintains itself as a porter with smoked notes but the chocolate and citrus orange flavors lend some sweetness too it. I really does seem to work well after all. Smokey and sweet work together to give this chocolate orange creamsicle flavor through and through. It drinks rather easy and smooth making this almost a gateway beer unless the extra bitter smokey notes make it hard but they are rather tame in comparison to other smokey beers I have had. This is actually pretty welcoming really. Some people may really like this.

Anime Corner:
Psylocke from Marvel’s X-men was used in this pairing to pair with some of the colors of the label but mainly since this is the first time I use her in a pairing. She has been long over due wanted to present her bad assness with a new beer here. The characteristics of her hotness translate to the smoothness of this beer while still maintaining sweet flavors. The smokey aspects of the beer would represent the dangerous side of her. She works with the mind so the taste actually is good despite the fact that you really do taste the oranges and chocolate smokey notes. They seem to work really well here.

Sources:
http://i2.pixiv.net/img44/img/jinbei-nit/31663215.jpg

Itasca Loonidragon by Clown Shoes brewing

November 15, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Asada Shino, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Clown Shoes Brewing, dark chocolate, Itasca Loonidragon, Neliel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, Russian Imperial Stout, Sinon, Sword Art Online II, unidragon | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.5/5

Itasca Loonidragon by Clown Shoes brewing is a 14.5% Russian Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Itasca Loonidragon the beer is Blaecorn Unidragon aged in bourbon barrels. Itasca Loonidragon the label depicts a new creature, a gentle monster, the get of a unidragon mated with a giant norther loon, drinking peacefully from the headwater of the Mississippi River.
___

Released only in Minnesota, very few online places will carry this beer and unless you know someone who is willing to trade something for this one is most likely the only way to get this one. Since the previous beers, the Unidragon itself has not been released bourbon barrel aged so the fact that Minnesota gets this one is pretty awesome. I have yet to try Ohio Unidragon which is the regular Unidragon with special ingredients. The awesome Texas one was made with special Texas ingredients. I can only assume that this one uses Minnesota bourbon or something. I tried finding more info about this unfortunately I could not in terms of what it is made with. If you know, please leave me a comment below. So let us see what this fine creature has to offer, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich bourbon, oak, smokey notes, earthy notes, rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate hints, dark fruits like currants, blackberries, raisin and cherries, coconut hints, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mocha, brown sugar, mint, anise, molasses, pipe tobacco and mocha.

Flavors:
Bourbon Rocky road ice cream up front, lots of oak, dark chocolate, semi sweet Bakers chocolate, coconut, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, marshmallow smores, dark fruits like raisins, cherries, currants and blackberries, pipe tobacco, flan hints, burnt sugar, brown sugar, banana notes, pecan pie, earthy notes, mocha, molasses, anise, licorice and mint chocolate chip.

Aftertaste:
Finishing slightly dry with some Oak, dark chocolate, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, earthy notes, and mild dark fruit. Slight boozyness that is mainly hidden by the complex flavors, silky smooth mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and pitch black night body with very little head retention.

Overall:
Surely exceeding expectations by several notches. The predominant aspect of the beer is the oak followed by the rich and sweet complexities but there is a good amount of earthy and roasted bitterness here to make stuff alittle more balanced. This goes down really well only hinting at the fact that it is 14.5% ABV afterall. Surely ofcourse, would I recommend it. If you cannot find it, that is okay but if you do, this one is awesome!

Anime Corner:
Asada Shino/Sinon from Sword Art Online II was used in this pairing to basically play at Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck but a more innocent version of her. I used Nelliel as the original Unidragon and she stuck around for the longest time so I figured I wanted to do something different but pay tribute to her green hair or a character that kind of resembles her. Sinon is an up and coming character that many fans of the show Sword Art Online like so I figure, new beer, new character. The fact that she is a bad ass in the show but also all the colors pair super super well with the colors in the label of the Itasca Loonidragon. It works very awesomely!

Sources:
http://mythicxgamer.deviantart.com/art/Sinon-Wallpaper-460056006

Lips of Faith Series Salted Belgian Chocolate Stout collaboration by New Belgium and Perennial Artisan Ales

November 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Chocolate, Belgian imperial Stout, Belgian Stout, Collaboration Beer, Lips of Faith, new belgium, Perennial Artisan Ales, Salted Belgian Chocolate Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Lips of Faith Series Salted Belgian Chocolate Stout collaboration by New Belgium and Perennial Artisan Ales is a 9% ABV Belgian Imperial Stout.

Label:
Dessert is best poured. And the brewers at Perennial agree. So for our next Lips of Faith release we dreamt up a beer that would bring together chocolate sweetness, Belgian yeast, deeply roasted malts and just the right shake of salt to pour a creamy stout worthy of a cherry on top.
___

It surely has been a while since I have done a Lips of Faith series beer. That and the fact that I have not seen many out and I recently just Gruit so you will most likely see a review of that one soon as well. This time New Belgium does a collaboration with Perennial which is something we do not often get here in the west coast so seeing them with NB making a Belgian Stout is simply amazing. I can only hope that what comes out of this is pure epicness. The Belgian Stout is a rare feat that I have only seen few do and do it great. The fact that we have Perennial involved, I can only hope for the best. The Lips of Faith series has been awesome for so many years hitting some great craft hits. I just hope this one is a hit too. Well, let us see, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, clove spice, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian chocolate, biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel, banana hints, smokey notes, soy sauce, oak notes, earthy notes, anise, molasses, soy sauce and coriander.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Oatmeal cookies Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, currants, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mint chocolate chip, anise, licorice, molasses, bananas, clove spice, coriander spice, rye, oak notes, smokey notes, soy sauce hints, rye bread, BBQ hints, earthy notes, salt notes and leather hints.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with an anise, chocolate, raisins, earthy notes, salted plum sauce, caramel and hints of oak. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black body, creamy and smooth mouthfeel, moderate drinkability.

Overall:
This beer reminded me of the Ommegang Art of Darkness, Shiva’s Tears or a Smokey Dubbel. This was perfect mainly since I love Belgian Chocolate Stouts and the chocolate and mild smokey notes works wonders here. I have yet to try Perennial Artisan Ales but what they and New Belgium have brought forth is very amazing. If chocolate was truly made to have small bit of salt, it seems to work as it is more balanced the way it is. I would highly reach this one out if you like smokey hinted chocolate beers.

Anime Corner:
Original demon character was used in this pairing to pair with the aspect of sweet Belgian chocolate and monk beers which are typically holy that drive away evil. The fact that a devil/demon girl is eating the chocolate is like tainting or in this case salting the Belgian chocolate. It necessarily is not a bad thing as you can see she does look innocent and she does have some Angelic traits, it is just that salting or tainting a Belgian chocolate introduces some awesome pleasures to the palette that enjoys just a little more than the average sweet chocolate. Some people don’t like pure sweet and this goes to balance flavors out. So it seems to work. That and the fact that some of the colors she has do match with some of the colors from the the label.

Sources:
http://oi59.tinypic.com/2w556xy.jpg

Bourbon Barrel Aged Arrogant Bastard by Stone Brewing

November 4, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, arrogant bastard, Arrogant Bastard Ale, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Arrogant Bastard, bourbon barrels, Erza Scarlet, Fairy Tail, king of beers, Stone Brewing, You are Not worthy | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Arrogant Bastard by Stone Brewing is a 7.8% ABV American Strong Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Quite Refined, Unlike you.

I did not give you permission to pick me up, let alone drink me. Nor do I intend to. Being groped as you mutter to yourself taxes my patience. Pardon? You think you’re the only one who can hear that scattered cacophony of “thought” racing through your head? Ah, ’twere that true. While I am a master of social complexities and articulate thought, clearly you are not. I am the embodiment of unparalleled intellectual and artistic heights. You, on the other hand, bring the baggage of preconceived notions that serve only to distract.

Yet, I’ll give you one chance: Aspire to free your mind. Use a crowbar if you must. Approach me with openness, unsullied by your irrelevant “life experience.” Alternately, set me down and leave me the hell alone.

Yes, yes, I know. You don’t have to put up with this. You’re a tiger. Grrr. You go get ’em. Go tweet or otherwise enlighten the starved-for-your-opinion world of your precious insights about me. Thrill yourself imagining your three, 300 or 30,000 followers hanging on your every word. I’m sure they must. OMG, they’re waiting for you to tell them the thought you had just now.

Now close your mouth and either set me down or do your worst. What’s that? You’re going to drink a fizzy yellow beer out of spite? You got it. Self-flagellate all you like. Proclaim your unworthiness to whoever will listen, scamp.
___

Behold!! You are in the presence of the return of the true King/Queen of Beers. It’s long return from slumber after a long time of not being reviewed now graces the unworthy with a might of Bourbon and Oak. While There have been other variants taking advantage of the Double Bastard and Lukcy Bastard Barrel Aged, this is the truest return of the Arrogant Bastard since my first review of the regular beer oh so long ago (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/arrogant-bastard-ale-by-stone/). This beer comes in a special Stone 4 pack including the other 3 Bastards, Arrogant, Double and Lukcy. You may as well get the quad of arrogance now before they sell out or just keep going without ever knowing what could have been… cheers!!

Aromas:
Bourbon, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, burnt sugar, toasted coconut, citrus, piney, grapefruit, earthy and grassy hops, vanilla, marshmallows, pine nuts, almonds, roasted peanuts, wooden oak, campfire, graham cracker smores, tobacco, leather, apples, stone fruit apricot hints, some tropics like dragon fruit and passion fruit hints.

Flavors:
Rich Toffee, Bourbon notes, earthy, piney, grassy, grapefruit hops, dulce de leche caramel,honey, dragon fruit, vanilla, hop soaked marshmallows, oak, rye bread, apples, stone fruit apricot, passion fruit hints, citrus, lemon peel, butterscotch, leather, tobacco, roasted burnt peanut butter hints, brown sugar, campfire oak, smores and sour raspberries.

Aftertaste:
Rye bread, toffee, caramel, earthy hops, grassy, citrus and grapefruit peel, oak and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, deep crimson Amber in body, medium drinkability and smooth yet bitter mouthfeel.

Overall:
A tad more perfect than the already perfect Arrogant Bastard. While this is Bourbon Barrel Aged, the Bourbon helps compliment the awesome sweeter flavors but the beer is still pretty damn aggressive and delicious. They should really consider selling this one individually but the fact that it comes with the other ones including the Lukcy which is the Cuvee (Grand Bastard Cru) at a reasonable price may actually make this one worth getting. You be the judge. LOL like the Arrogant Bastard says “It’s Not Expensive, You’re just Too Cheap!”

Anime Corner:
Erza Scarlet from Fairy Tail was used in this pairing because I wanted to find another Bad Ass Red Head like I did with Baiken from Guilty Gear. Erza brings everything that has to do with this beer. The label, the colors, the flavors, the bitterness, the attitude, the arrogance and the dominance. Let us start with how she puts her arm to the side and looks straight into your soul like a bad ass giving off that look of pure bitter arrogance. Her hair spikes up like the wings and horns of the gargoyle. The dark surrounding with the crimson represents the flow of beer as I spends it’s time aging in the Bourbon to someday be released as such which was the Return of the King of Beers. Today is a Good Day!

Sources:
http://wallpapersinhq.com/images/big/fairy_tail_erza-1475314.jpg

2014 Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday by The Bruery

November 4, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 2014 Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday, best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Black Tuesday 2014, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, rum, Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday, Rum Barrel Black Tuesday, Rum Barrels, Spiced rum, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga | 1 Comment

Rating: 6.25/5

2014 Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday by The Bruery is an 18.9% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Rum Barrels.

Label:
NEW DEAL

I cannot help but raise a dissenting voice to statements that we are living in a fool’s paradise, and that prosperity in this country must necessarily diminish and recede in the near future.” – E.H.H. Simmons, President, NYSE, January 1928

Black Tuesday Will age gracefully for many decades of economic fluctuations. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55 ° F (13 °C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass
___

The rare allocation of this year’s Reserve Society release from the Bruery. Unfortunately, if you would like to try this variant you will need to try it at the Bruery directly before they run out as is very kimited or you may have to trade for this one. I have no idea when this version will read the public hands and the Bruery has released many many variations of their base beers through experimentation. I really would like to see variants be released, or even then, more allocations to the public and out-of-state too. Only few people get a chance to try Black Tuesday and only a few will get to try this one. I assure you, upon my many tastings, this goes beyond what is considered, a regular BEER! Now then, let us dive into the Alchemic arts which is this variant, Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday.

Aromas:
Lots of Rum oak, vanilla, tropical hints of pineapple, mango, toasted coconut, dragon fruit, melon sharpness, banana cream pie, Danish cookies, almond joy, mint chocolate chip hints, Chocolate Truffles, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, cherries, currants, blackberries, port wine, Oreo cookies and cream, dark candi sugars, rock candy, burnt sugar, anise, molasses, cotton candy, sugar cane, pumpkin spice hints, tres leches came, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate cake, brownies, wine grapes, mocha and more complex aromas.

Flavors:
Rich Banana, Rum, oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugars, rock candy, brown sugars, agave hints, toasted coconut, dark, milk German, Belgian, Bakers and Truffle chocolate, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, wine grapes, pine apple hints, candi sugars, oreo cookies and cream, almond joy, crème brulee, Irish cream, mocha coffee, java, Kahlua, molasses, anise, mint chocolate chip, flan, piña colada, tres leches cake, flan, subtle old mango, cantaloupe hints, dragon fruit hints, sugar cane hints, cotton candy, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, chocolate cake, flan, sweetened condensed milk, rocky road ice cream, graham cracker smores, marshmallow, subtle tobacco, leather hints, clove spice, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, toffee and port wine.

Aftertaste:
Banana, Rum, Oak, Bubblegum, coconut, pineapple hints, dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, hazelnut, dark cherries, marshmallow, almond joy, cantaloupe melon, mild Piña Colada, pecan pie, chocolate cake and tres leches flan. Boozy but super subtle with nothing detracting from the rich flavors. Mouthfeel is much smoother than the regular Black Tuesday but still silky smooth. Drinkability is still sipping but to a degree with a Pitch Black Hole body of upper dimensions. This one is way more drinkable than the original or at least it goes down smoother so much more danger here.

Overall:
Definitely a notch above the The Regular Black Tuesday. Even at the highest of expectations, it keeps pushing and pushing! This beer is much much more sweeter and a tad tropical. The original base beer takes over with its complexity already in tact but it generates another normally not provided by the Bourbon. This beer is just as dangerous if not a little more as the drinkability of pure sugar syrup is still insane here. Quite literally lingering in the tongue for a while which makes it more enjoyable so you don’t have to rush. I absolutely recommend this version if you are lucky enough to find this. However, even if you can get the regular Black Tuesday, do get it as if you will realize that this beer is the definitive that goes beyond the boundaries of what is considered beer and yet still is. A God amongst the Craft Beer world.

Anime Corner: tl;dr
KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, as shown in previous versions of Black Tuesday, was used this time in a more Tropical setting to go with the aspect of the rum barrels used in this pairing. The sweet tropical flavors provided from the Rum add a nice twist to the already insane Black Tuesday. More info on KOS-MOS below:

KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four most favorite characters in anime. She was chosen for this particular beer in 2012 to go along with some of my most favorite beers of all time. In terms of who she is is representative of how bad ass this beer is. To me, Black Tuesday is representative of a crash (the stock market) which brings about chaos. Polar to chaos is order or cosmos. While there is is a mess among chaos, there is always a glimmer of hope that will restore the balance to the universe, and that is order or KOS-MOS. In other reviews I have reviewed her character when it comes to the divine and holy (The Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Mayan Judgment, Angel Share, Sede Vacante and even Sam Adams Tetravis). In the game, SPOILER ALERT She is Mary Magdalene’s vessel for which Kaos (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. SPOILER ENDS. Yeah, the spoiler may not make sense but there are many websites ready to explain. Anyways, Black Tuesday label, although hard to see holds some shiny blue but also some shiny brown. The blue part represents KOS-MOS for me and the brown is the sweet chocolate. Once you find out how sweet and understanding this character is, it makes a world of a difference which is why Black Tuesday makes a world of a difference to me. Although the cold harsh reality of her initial computational robotical android form may seem a bit cold when the series first started. Not to mention the fact that she is a definitely over powered character, which may be the alcohol and the fact that this beer should not be consumed in one sitting. She should be enjoyed slowly. The artwork also represents Black Tuesday as the dark matter of space, the upper frontiers of awesomeness and good beer. Tuesday is just another cycle of the stars, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!

Sources:
http://i4.pixiv.net/img02/img/syunzone/13171923.jpg

2014 Black Tuesday by the Bruery

November 1, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Black Tuesday 2014, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/5

2014 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 19.7% ~20%ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
NEW DEAL

Black Tuesday Will age gracefully for many decades of economic fluctuations. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55 ° F (13 °C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass
___

What do I even say about this beer that I have not said over the many years I have reviewed this all time favorite. I think with my past review about the Black Tuesday Release Party should have been enough to disclose the greatness of this one or even the reviews of the past should have been enough. Yet, here I am again bringing another awesome review about a wonderful and favorite beer. Also, did I mention, that this year’s version is an even closer to a…20% ABV!!!!! Not to mention on a 750ml bottle that if you drink in one sitting you will surely coming a great mistake?! Well, here it is. The beer that is the strongest of the strong, the best of the best and just… well.. yeah… On to the review!!

Aromas:
Rich bourbon, oak, bananas, dark, milk German, Belgian and bakers chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut nectar, smokey notes, dark raisins, dark cherries, plums, marshmallow, mocha coffee, Kahlua, Irish cream, agave syrup, candi sugar, rock candy, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, pudding, graham cracker smores, coconut, choco flan, maple syrup, molasses, anise, port wine hints, brown sugar, leather, tobacco and mint patties.

Flavors:
Bananas, dark, milk German, Belgian and bakers chocolate, oak, leather, tobacco, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, rich dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, blueberries, raspberries, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, cinnamon, coconut, marshmallow, graham cracker smores, agave syrup, molasses, maple syrup, anise, mint chocolate chip ice cream hints, rocky road ice cream, candi sugars, clove spice, port wine, mocha coffee, Kahlua, Irish cream, double chocolate cake, flan, leche nestle/sweetened condenced milk, choco flan, brown sugar, crème brulee, toffee, sugar cane and cotton candy.

Aftertaste:
Bananas, bourbon, flan, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, hazelnut, cherries, marshmallow, pecan pie, coconut, chocolate cake just lingers and lingers and lingers! Boozy but ridiculously subtle and nothing detracting from the rich complex flavor, smooth and sipping drinkability, silky and syrupy mouth feel, beyond pitch black body which the sight leads to another dimension. Highly and extremely dangerous so careful with her. Balanced to the true name of KOS-MOS/ORDER.

Overall:
Yes Yes Yes, there is nothing more to say other than if you want this beer, join the Preserve Society or simply trade. We are getting closer and closer to the day where the Bruery will make so much of this that it will be sold more widely to the public. Well, maybe, but at least the public can joint the Preservation society to get this. I don’t want to sound like an advocate for the Bruery but then again, tasting different beers and this crew who experiments so much to the point of creating super unique beers is pretty much unheard of. So yeah, get this while you still can!

Anime Corner: tl;dr
I think I did such a great job of pairing Kos-mos from the several beer reviews back that I wanted to bring the 2013 Anime corner below and elaborate on why I chose the new one picture. It obvious how Kos-mos simply just emerges from the depths of Black Void of Tuesday as she rises up stronger to show that 20%ABV (Order/KOSMOS Rising from the Chaos). As to who is Kos-mos, see below:

KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four most favorite characters in anime. She was chosen for this particular beer in 2012 to go along with some of my most favorite beers of all time. In terms of who she is is representative of how bad ass this beer is. To me, Black Tuesday is representative of a crash (the stock market) which brings about chaos. Polar to chaos is order or cosmos. While there is is a mess among chaos, there is always a glimmer of hope that will restore the balance to the universe, and that is order or KOS-MOS. In other reviews I have reviewed her character when it comes to the divine and holy (The Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Mayan Judgment, Angel Share, Sede Vacante and even Sam Adams Tetravis). In the game, SPOILER ALERT She is Mary Magdalene’s vessel for which Kaos (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. SPOILER ENDS. Yeah, the spoiler may not make sense but there are many websites ready to explain. Anyways, Black Tuesday label, although hard to see holds some shiny blue but also some shiny brown. The blue part represents KOS-MOS for me and the brown is the sweet chocolate. Once you find out how sweet and understanding this character is, it makes a world of a difference which is why Black Tuesday makes a world of a difference to me. Although the cold harsh reality of her initial computational robotical android form may seem a bit cold when the series first started. Not to mention the fact that she is a definitely over powered character, which may be the alcohol and the fact that this beer should not be consumed in one sitting. She should be enjoyed slowly. The artwork also represents Black Tuesday as the dark matter of space, the upper frontiers of awesomeness and good beer. Tuesday is just another cycle of the stars, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!

Sources:
http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs49/i/2012/337/8/9/the_firebird_suite_by_melficexd-d23or7w.jpg
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/thumbs/preview/42/420445__xenosaga_p.jpg

Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore)

Monthly Archives: November 2014

Holiday Belgian Strong Brown Ale by Avila Ales

Barrel Aged Narwhal by Sierra Nevada

Firestone XVIII Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

Gregorius Trappistenbier by Stift Engelszell

He’Brew Jewbelation Reborn 18th Anniversary Ale by Shmaltz Brewing

Union Jack by Firestone Walker

Dead Ringer Oktoberfest

Velvet Mocha Merlin by Firestone Walker

2014 Barrel Roll No. 08 Falling Leaf by Hangar 24

Abundance by Renaissance brewing

Eight by Surly Brewing

Judge Jury & Executioner IIIPA by Ironfire brewing

Stochasticity Project Hibiscusicity by Stone Brewing

Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top by Evil Twin Brewing

Extremely Angry Beast by Clown Shoes Brewing

Sabre-Toothed Squirrel by Smog City brewing

Peach Sour by (512) brewing

Enjoy by 12.05.14 by Stone brewing

Horchata Imperial Stout by Belching Beaver

The Kaiser from the Dictator Series by Avery brewing

Provenance (Orange & Grapefruit) by Jester King

Burnt Caramel by Clown Shoes brewing

Señor Viejo by Twisted X brewing

Lips of Faith series Gruit by New Belgium

Snörkel by Jester King brewing

Blackwater Series Mokah by Southern Tier

Black Hole Sun by Black Market brewing

Peanut Butter Milk Stout by Belching Beaver Brewery

2014 Darkness by Surly brewing

Das Überkind by Jester King brewing

Stone Smoked Porter with Chocolate & Orange Peel by Stone brewing

Itasca Loonidragon by Clown Shoes brewing

Lips of Faith Series Salted Belgian Chocolate Stout collaboration by New Belgium and Perennial Artisan Ales

Bourbon Barrel Aged Arrogant Bastard by Stone Brewing

2014 Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday by The Bruery

2014 Black Tuesday by the Bruery