Black Butte XXVII (27th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 27th Anniversary, 27th Anniversary Reserve, aged in Bourbon Barrels, apricot puree, Black Butte, black butte porter, Black Butte XXVII, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, cocoa nibs, Deschutes Brewery, Legend of Zelda, Midna, Pomegranate Molasses, Pomegranates, Rose, Rose Water, tart apricots, Theo's cocoa nibs, Twili Midna, Twilight Princess | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Black Butte XXVII (27th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery is 11.6% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with Rose water with 50% aged in bourbon barrels blended with ale with apricot puree, cocoa nibs, pomegranate molasses and spices.

Label:
Our 27th Anniversary Imperial Porter was brewed with Theo Chocolate’s cocoa nibs, pomegranate molasses and select spices, blended with apricot puree, and then aged in bourbon barrels. The result is a truly exquisite ale with bold chocolate character, inspired flavors of fruit, and just a pinch of spice. The perfect way for us to celebrate our golden birthday with you!.

==Introduction==

Each year they release this beer, they always use different ingredients. I have been fortunate enough to be able to try the beers since the 24th version all the way to 26th and now the 27th. Since I loved the previous years versions, I can only imagine this years version will be insane. Then again, is there any surprise. Actually yes, It is NOT the SAME BEER! I definitely forget to get 2 every time but this year I will want to get more! Since each year has different ingredients, you want to try them all as one amazing and every year getting better! Nuff said, Review, I coming!

Aromas:
Super dark chocolate goodness, milk chocolate goodness, almond joy, marshmallow, rich dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, blackberries, cherries, marshmallows, chocolate and rye bread with strawberry and raspberry jam, almond butter, wrapped in tin foil over a campfire, brown sugar on top then being dipped in a chocolate mouse and then a sweetened condescended milk and flan cream.

Flavors:
Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, chocolate covered tart apricots, chocolate covered pomegranates, chocolate covered bananas, roasted malts, coffee, chocolate mousse, bourbon, oak, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, currants, blackberries, pecan pie, walnuts, clove spice, bubble gum hints, licorice, anise, molasses, tobacco, leather, rye bread, almond joy, marshmallows, smokey campfire hints, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, chocolate cherry fudge cake, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lavender, sakura cake, rose hints, maple bar, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, abuelita chocolate hints, strawberry preserves on rye bread and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits, stone fruits, earthy notes, Dark chocolate, pecan pie, tobacco, oak, marshmallows, floral tartness, caramel, vanilla and tobacco hints. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch Black Midnight Full body, silky, velvety and smooth mouthfeel and a super easy drinkability which is dangerous. Just like each year, its smoothness will make you want to drink the whole bottle in one sitting.

Overall:
No surprise here, Exceptional to the max! Every year, this beer really surprises me. It gets better but in different aspects since they try different flavors and ingredients and it is never the same beer every year but an evolved version of the previous or something altogether different. There is no doubt, with the great amount of this beer for many to try, it should be a pick up for sure for many that love dark barrel aged beers.

Anime Corner:
Midna (Both Forms) from The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princes was chosen once again this year for the Black Butte release as well as the other releases. Just like last years,I had chosen her in the previous releases since I wanted to represent the mixing of 2 of the same ale together. One being the the bourbon barrel aged Rose Water (Twili Midna on the right) and the cocoa nibs, apricot puree (The dimensions of flavor in the background) and pomegranate molasses (Midna on the left). They are both the same person and both are kick ass but that was obvious from the fact that I use them for the same beer every year. The pomegranate and Rose color can be see by the crimson in their beautiful eyes, staring seductively at each other apparently but also nurturing mainly (like mother and child) (sweet and tart) and the land of pleasure is now a portal in the background to that dimension of flavor. Don’t be fooled though, take your time with this both versions of Midna. They can be misleading and evil but only if you let them be.

Sources:
http://img05.deviantart.net/f2f6/i/2014/177/d/3/midna_s_hug_by_yuqoi-d7o1hls.png

Doppel Sticky by Lagunitas brewing

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged AltBier, Doppel Sticky, DoppelSticke, Double AltBier, Lagunitas Brewing, Neopolitan, Rwby | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Doppel Sticky by Lagunitas brewing is a 7.7% ABV Double AltBier/ DoppelSticke.

Label:
Where do we go from here?” The words hung in the air like treacle. This gathering of dreams stood at the very center of decision making, the epicenter, the geodetic center of the brewery. he answer was everywhere obvious. “Forward, never straight.”

==Introduction==

Literally, the first Altbier I have ever had. Brought by Lagunitas! I haven’t had their beers in a while. While news of their recent buy out of 50% by Heineken has stirred the craft beer community. What does this mean for lagunitas? Well, according to the definition of craft beer and the amount of beer produced (Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less) they will no longer be considered “Craft Beer”. Even so, what is to say the beer won’t be good? I like to keep an open mind and talk about beer in general. If it is bad, I’ll say so, if not, then give it shot. Let’s see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of tropical fruits, stone fruits, caramel, vanilla, toffee, coriander, floral, grassy, herbal, grapefruit hops, honey comb, waffle cone, rich berries like raspberries, strawberries and cream lemon grass, lemon candy, cane sugar, lots of oranges and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Caramel, toffee, cane sugar, coriander, citrus, tropical fruit papaya, mango, guava, pineapple, grapefruit, lemon grass, floral, grassy and herbal hops, honey comb, clove spice, banana hints, piloncillo sugar cone, vanilla, honey comb, waffle cones, sweetened condensed milk, sweet hop candy, Danish cream hints, strawberries and cream, cherries, currants, raspberries and tangerine preserves on biscuit bread.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a nice floral, citrusy, grapefruit, grassy, piney and herbal hops along with caramel, vanilla and tropical fruit and toffee. No alcohol in the taste, moderate drinkability, hazy medium gold body, frothy, effervescent but smooth mouthfeel.

Overall:
Indeed, very good and delicious reminding me a lot of an IPA but the body is more on the malty side. There seems to be a good balance of malty sweetness with a rich tropical fruit and herbal hop bitterness. This is probably my favorite beer from them now. Reminiscent of the sweet sugars one would get off of dessert IPAs but since the style is more of a German style, the sweets are a given already. One 12 ounce bottle is not enough, so good thing they sell this at a 6 pack. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Neopolitan from RWBY was used in this pairing because of the whole aspect of being a Double but also the blend of tropical sweet with herbal notes and rich malty side is almost like the 3 flavors of a Neopolitan Ice Cream. She is a villain in the series but the fact that I chose her has nothing to do with the beer. I just liked her colors is all.

Sources:
http://img12.deviantart.net/6387/i/2014/308/a/f/neopolitan_by_reef1600-d858inq.jpg

Stone Cali-Belgique aged in Reposado Tequila Barrels by Stone Brewing

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian IPA, BIPA, BPA, Cali-Belgique, Darkstalkers, Jedah, Jedah Dohma, Midnight Bliss, Reposado Tequila Barrels, Stone Brewing, Stone Company Store, Tequila Barrel Aged, Vampire Savior | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Stone Cali-Belgique aged in Reposado Tequila Barrels by Stone Brewing is a 9.3% ABV Belgian India Pale Ale aged in Reposado Tequila Barrels.

==Introduction==

Obtained at the Stone Company Store in Pasadena California, this beer along with other awesome beers were released to the public on tap. This one was the only barrel aged serving on tap eligible to take home in growler fill.

Aromas:
Vanilla, bubble gum hints, oak, tequila notes, agave, peppercorns, stone fruit apricots, peaches, flowers like lavender and chamomile, cane sugar, lemon, herbs, farmhouse hay, wine grape notes, banana hints, clove spice and minor tropical fruit hints.

Flavors:
Lechugilla Agave, Cane sugar, Mezcal, Tequila, oak, peppercorns, honey, oranges, herbal, floral, grapefruit, piney and grassy hops, clove spice, ginger spice, coriander spice, vanilla, bubblegum notes, Italian basil, lemon, mango, pineapple, stone fruit apricots, peaches, butterscotch hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit hints, funky notes, farmhouse hay, wine grapes, chardonay hints, mustard seed, bananas, cantaloupe, lavender, hibiscus and tamarind.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some notes of tequila, peppercorns, stone fruits, grapefruit hops and clove spice. No alcohol in the taste, clear gold body, sipping drinkability, smooth, crisp, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
A bit above exceptional. The beer originally was already delicious as I really loved the flavors of the Cali-Belgique as they reminded me of a border lining Belgian Pale Ale or Hopped Saison and mainly the Golden ale that was the As Follows by stillwater with its pungent orange and herbal flavors. Now with Tequila, especially reposado tequila give this beer a touch of something that not many beers of this style get to see. A European blend with not just west coast style but also a major Mexican influence. This beer was a great out come. Tequila barrel aged beers are rare and few in between so getting a chance to have one once and a while is an awesome feat since many breweries go with mainly bourbon now a days which also is extremely delicious as well. Each spirit adds something genuine to beers.

Anime Corner:
Jedah Dohma “Midnight Bliss” version from Darkstalkers/Vampire Savior was used in this pairing as with the last time I tried and reviewed the original brew, I used Jedah as well. This time, Jedah fermented in the dark recesses of Reposado tequila barrels represented by the mezcal and agave colors of the picture where she is with the deathly bird (Think of it as the Mexican Tequila influence and the Scythe being the harvester of Agave). I also brought back one of the original pics back too. Jedah for this stone beer represents the fancy tradition of European beers meeting the west coast. Meaning she has like a European Dracula like outfit but also blonde hair represents the aspect of the west coast style in terms of the blonde and clear colors that this beer has.

Sources:
http://orig11.deviantart.net/beaf/f/2009/072/8/e/udon_ds_contest__jedah_by_zelas.jpg
http://blog-imgs-41-origin.fc2.com/g/e/r/gerokan2/jeda.jpg

Rainbow Triplin’ by Stone brewing

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Tripel, grapes, Hatsune Miku, lemons, limes, Miku, oranges, Rainbow Triplin', Stone Brewing, Stone Company Store, Strawberries, Strawberry, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Rainbow Triplin’ by Stone brewing is an 8.2% ABV Belgian Tripel brewed with Strawberries, Oranges, Lemons, Limes & Grapes.

==Introduction==

Obtained this on as a Crowler at Stone Company Store in Pasadena for their 3rd Anniversary party. Unfortunately, I did not know much about this beer as I went there to get the Reposado Tequila Cali-Belgique. However, first taste and I was completely mind fucked and taste fucked as well (is that even a saying?). Essentially, the name was not kidding. Something about the flavors of this beer make you trip flavor wise since there is so much going on and all pointing to Skittles and tasting the rainbow. The fruity flavors are super forward like Skittles candies. So, I was able to bring this one for the review but just trying this beer makes me wonder how to get a home brew to be like this? Time will tell, for now, let me tell you about this beer now that I was able to get a Crowler of this.

Aromas:
Super rich fruits, Starburst candy, Skittles, Floral Fabuloso Lavender, dark cherries, strawberries, tart cranberries, pomegranate, pink lemonade, lemon drop candies, peaches, limes, grapes, peppercorns, vanilla, gummy bears, oranges and all sorts of tropical fruit.

Flavors:
Lots of Skittles flavors, Mango, tangerine, lemons, pink lemonade, lemon drop candies, peaches, limes, grapes, grapefruit, pineapple, dark cherries, strawberries, tart cranberries, pomegranate, blue berries, oranges, honey dew melon, papaya, kiwi, passion fruit, dragon fruit, biscuit bread, herbal and floral hops, hibiscus, lavender, sour apples, white raisins, peppercorns, Belgian candy sugar, ginger spice, lychee, gummy bears, gummy works and mint.

Aftertaste:
Finish somewhat dry with lots of citrus and berry flavors forward including Tart cherries, lemon, lime, grapes, Oranges and grapefruit. No alcohol in the taste, light to medium pink and gold body, crisp, clean, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel with a super easy drinkaility.

Overall:
There is a reason why this beer is a real trip as you get punched in the face with a lot of tropical fruits. A perfect tropical, and more importantly, skittles Tripel. Essentially trying to figure out all the fruit flavors in this beer is a real trip as well. Wonder how they were able to get so much fruit flavor from this beer. It is pretty crazy. If you ever get to see this on tap, you definitely want to do yourself a flavor and taste that damn rainbow!

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Hatsune Miku was used in this pairing as I wanted to find a picture that related rainbows with a “trippy” piece of art. As she rides the rainbow, it is like saying, she rides the rainbow across your taste buds is like music to the taste budal ear. Super fresh, super fruity, super trippy!!

Sources:
https://data.archive.moe/board/a/image/1410/57/1410572235897.jpg

Collaboration Series: Confession collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Confession, Fess Parker, Fess Parker winery, Final Fantasy VI, Riesling Grapes, sour ale, Terra Brandford, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Collaboration Series: Confession collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is a 9.7% ABV American Wild Ale with Riesling Grapes

Label:
Floral – Citrusy – Mineralic

==Introduction==

Obtained from the Bruery Reserve membership, this beer was sold to the Hoarders society but was passed down over to the Reserve society. An ale that crosses into the wine territory. The last time I had a beer with Fess Parker as a collaboration, it was the Mardi Rouge/Red Tuesday/Winefication I. This was sometime last year and as I remember, the cross into the wine territory is pretty good when done right. Wineification was awesome for sure. This one, being a sour, I am sure will be delicious. Especially if you love wines or sours.

Aromas:
earthy notes, earthy funk, wine grapes, grape skins, oak, vanilla, rye bread, raspberry vinaigratte, leather, berry cheese cake hints, salt, lemon candy, tejuino, oranges, roses, lavender, hibiscus and chardonnay.

Flavors:
Riesling grapes, concorde grapes, Wine grapes, grape skins, earthy notes, earthy funk, salt, lemon candy, tejuino, oranges, tangerine, chardonnay, lemon yogurt, vinous, white wine, dessert wine hints, Stone fruit peach, apricots, pears, apples, oak, vanilla, rye bread, raspberry vinaigratte, leather, berry cheese cake hints, floral notes of roses, lavender, hibiscus and chamomile, berry seeds and dark fruit figs.

Aftertaste:
Dry leaving hints of wine grapes, earthy notes, lemon, and funky bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, Golden light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel and a easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very good sour show casing a variety of tart fruits and funkiness. Typically, those fruity yet vinous and tart that you would find in some wines and sours. If you like sours or wine, this is a very delicious beer for sure. Sometimes, I can draw the line on some sours or some wines and well, there are many things I take from them. While some are awesome, especially the sweet sours, I can respect this one since it seems to have some kind of following. So if you get a chance and love sours, this one is worth a try atleast once.

Anime Corner:
Terra Branford from Final Fantasy VI was used in this pairing to pair with the name of the beer and the colors. Confession almost seemed like something very serious, like confessing to a crime or confessing to your conscience. In this pairing we see Terra looking with blood on her clothing as if to try to say something, like she committed a murder. In the other picture with the flash, it looks as if she is confessing to her conscience. That is what the little spark is role playing as.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Tina.Branford.full.184048.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Tina.Branford.full.438465.jpg

Prairie Rue collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Prairie Artisan Ales

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, Collaboration beers, Jenny XJ-9, MLAATR, oak barrels, Prairie Artisan Ales, Prairie Rue, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Prairie Rue collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Prairie Artisan Ales is a 6.9% American Farmhouse Ale Fermented in Oak Barrels.

==Introduction==

No description on this one but a sought after it will be for sure. Released at 2 limit for Reserve and Hoarders Society, this beer would not even see the Oklahoma distribution. So unless you have a friend on the California end that is willing to trade for this one, that maybe your only option. Unfortunately, my other one will be seeing another more, hellish domain but also a great craft beer website. So let us see this one for what it is, aside from two super coveted brewery brands coming together to make an awesome collab. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, hazelnut nectar, funky notes, tamarind notes, cola hints, molasses, old mango, citrus, dark fruit figs, raisins, prune hints, brown sugar, Ginger spice, fruit cake notes, Stone fruit apricots, earthy hop notes, smokey hints, graham crackers, mild chocolate notes, clove spice and banana

Flavors:
Rich oak, vanilla, rich Caramel, rich toffee, Farmhouse hay, wine grapes, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, funky notes, tamarind notes, biscuit bread, tangerine jam on toasted rye bread, leather notes, floral notes like roses, cola hints, molasses, old mango, citrus, dark fruit figs, raisins, prune hints, brown sugar, earthy hop notes, smokey hints, graham crackers, mild chocolate notes, clove spice, banana notes, cinnamon, Ginger bread, Ginger spice, fruit cake notes, Stone fruit apricots, Red Apples, roasted malts, coffee cake, Red Velvet cake, Italian herb hints.

Aftertaste:
Lingering caramel notes, earthy hop notes, stone fruit, tropical fruit hints, rye bread and jam with some floral hops and funky notes. No alcohol in the taste, crimson amber medium body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and easy drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally delicious Farmhouse Ale leaning towards more of a velvety amber ale with some funky notes. The beer reminded me a lot of Perennial and Cigar City’s Philly Taco for some reason but more on the oak and malty side. While this was very interesting, I couldn’t help notice that the flavors just went beyond even that beer into some really complex fruit and malty goodness. This collaboration really got exciting. Unfortunately, it will be hard to find this one but you maybe able to find it on a trade. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Jenny XJ-9 from MLAATR was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair some of the colors with of the beer with her and for the fact that this beer along with some others were the last of the summer beers. As flavors start to shift into the fall season, this beer seemed like that halfway point where Summer ends and Fall begins. This can be seen by the birds in the label migrating. What else does Jenny have to do with this pairing? Well, mainly some of the hidden teal colors pair with her just like a robot is complex, so is this beer. Complex to the point where flavors start to go in many directions. So enjoy a super coldly calculated beer like Jenny before the summer ends.

Sources:
http://img12.deviantart.net/d773/i/2013/242/6/8/jenny_at_beach_by_14_bis-d6kd7xq.jpg
http://orig09.deviantart.net/1e06/f/2007/163/c/6/volleyball_jenny_by_14_bis.jpg

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Arrrggghhh!, coconut, Dulce de leche, FFX-2, Final Fantasy X, Final Fantasy X-2, flan, Imperial Pilsner, Preservation Society, Rice, Rikku, The Bruery, tropical flavors | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery is a 7.7% ABV Imperial Pilsner brewed with Rice and Coconut.

Label:
“Shiver me Timbers!”

Arrrggghhh! Be refreshin’ly tropical and surprisn’ly hoppy. Perfected fer a sunny day on the high seas, but just as well for a landlubeber like ye. This lager is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor. The ideal storin’ and servin’ temperature be 40°F (4°C). Best Served in a tulip, wine glass, or pewter drinking tankard.Yo Ho!

==Introduction==

Preservation society has released a special grog that be essentially a way t’ deal with t’ current El Niño climate we be currently facin’ here in California. T’ grog be essentially a clean and cool grog t’ sail that last part o’ summer. Essentially, this golden liquid be t’ booty you be claimin’ on t’ long voyage through t’ grog world. It says best enough fresh so lets see if this be worthy o’ settin’ t’ flags up and sailin’ to t’ closest Bruery shop.

Aromas:
Coconut, banana hints, tropical notes, peppercorn, pilsner malt, biscuit bread, rice cake, citrus, grapefruit, herbal and floral hops, green tea ice cream, bread pudding hints, sweetended condensed milk, flan hints and stone fruit hints.

Flavors:
Vanilla, oak, toffee, coconut, toasted coconut, cocada coconut candy, mochi balls, redbean ice cream, green tea ice cream, rum hints, clean pilsner malt, biscuit bread, coconut bread, pineapple, banana notes, crème brulee hints, flan hints, rice cake, rice pudding, tapioca, tres leches, sweetened condensed milk, white raisin bread pudding, tropical fruits of dragon fruit, passion fruit, mango, guava, papaya, strawberry, kiwi, grapefruit, lemon grass, piney, herbal and floral hops, hints of peppercorn, stone fruit peaches and apricot.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a dry yet sweet and hoppy aftertaste hitting a lot of pleasing notes from the coconut, rice, vanilla, tropical fruits, stone fruits, sweetened rice and coconut pastries, herbal and floral hops. No alcohol in the taste, golden light body, very easy to drink and smooth, crisp, creamy, refreshing and clean mouthfeel. Overall, pleasant!

Overall:
10/10, 100/100, best beer, best beer! (JonTron homage)
Damn! If this did not come out of Davey Jones locker I don’t know what to say. The sweetness is damn on par with delicious coconut rice pudding. This is one hell of a beer. I really don’t know how they were able to incorporate the rice and coconut in there. I can find myself drinking this every single day without stop. Sounds crazy right? Well, this beer is so damn light and so damn drinkable that its dangerous cuz its so damn delicious!

Anime Corner:
Rikku from the Final Fantasy X and X-2 series was used in this pairing to pair as the pirate of gold. The golden liquid inside the bottle that is mainly the treasure overall. Rikku pairs her colors and complements the beer color, the label colors but mainly the whole theme of this being a pirate beer overall. Also, with the beach setting, it is like she is out in a tropical island somewhere which showcases the beers tropical flavors.

Sources:
http://www.1zoom.ru/big2/729/248642-svetik.jpg
http://img04.deviantart.net/f00e/i/2012/298/3/d/rikku_by_newdevaccount-d5iy25c.jpg

The Remix Project Series, Rio De Sauvin collaboration by Stillwater Artisanal and Against The Grain

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Against the Grain, american farmhouse, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, mango, Nia Teppelin, passion fruits, Rio De Sauvin, Stillwater Artisanal, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, The Remix Project Series, tropical flavors, Yoko Littner | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

The Remix Project Series, Rio De Sauvin collaboration by Stillwater Artisanal and Against The Grain is a 7.7% ABV Tropical Farmhouse Ale brewed with Mango and Passion fruit juices.

Label:
The boys at Against the Grain made a beer based on a fictional “sexy man” and uhh, his sheep friend.. So sticking with the theme and the fact that we have been spending some time in Brazil lately, we decided to amp up the sexy and host a tropical orgy of fruit flavors, hops, malt and yeast.. Umm Yeah.”

==Introduction==

Got this one at the little liquor store across the street near the Bruery. I haven’t had many Stillwater beers in a while so I figure I bring them since the beers they have are definitely some of the best farmhouse ales out there. This one, however, was very special since the ingredients caught my eye. I figured, this is exactly what I would like to see in a beer. Definitely something tropical. So here we have it, a tropical Farmhouse ale that uses actual tropical fruits. Cheers!

Aromas:
Tropical fruits like papaya, guavas, mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, prickly pear tuna, honey dew melon, raspberries, strawberry notes, cranberry hints, chamomile, lavender, grapefruit, piney, floral and herbal hops, farmhouse hay, funky notes, vanilla, biscuit bread, phenolic notes, banana notes and clove spice.

Flavors:
Citrus, Oranges, Lemon, peppercorn, Tropical fruits like papaya, guavas, mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, prickly pear tuna, honey dew melon, raspberries, strawberry notes, cranberry hints, Stone fruits like apricots, peaches, lychee, vanilla, biscuit bread, phenolic notes, banana notes, clove spice, flowers like rose petals, hibiscus, chamomile, lavender, grapefruit, piney, floral and herbal hops, farmhouse hay, funky notes, and cantaloupe candy.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some left over farmhouse hay goodness, tropical fruit, stone fruit, vanilla and hints of lemon and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, clear golden light body, crisp, refreshing, clean and effervescent mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect Saison being one of the best tropical saisons I have ever had. Namely, some saisons lean toward specific things like flowers but this one really let loose with some tropical notes that while subtle, they were perfect allowing the beer to reach an awesome peek of flavor. I highly recommend it even if the summer is close to an end, the heat is still here and this one is definitely one that should be taken if found. I have not seen this one online but if you happen to find it, give it a whirl!

Anime Corner:
Nia Teppelin and Yoko Littner from Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan were used in this pairing since I wanted to show case the many colors of tropical fruits and flavors. To pair with a hot summer scene, Nia and Yoko represent both breweries respectively and the floral surroundings are a nod at the floral notes from a farmhouse ale. So this beer pairs with many of the beers components and colors including the label.

Sources:
http://konachan.com/image/09c2662c8f49228831ef47e70ed1ed54/Konachan.com%20-%2049266%20bikini%20nia_teppelin%20swimsuit%20tengen_toppa_gurren_lagann%20yoko_littner.jpg

Ride That Goat (AKA Bokkenrijder) by The Bruery

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Astaroth, Astarotto, Bock, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Ride That Goat, shinra, Shinra Bansho, Shinra Banshou, The Bruery, Weizenbock | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Ride That Goat (AKA Bokkenrijder) by The Bruery is a 13.8% ABV Imperial Weizenbock aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
Let’s Ride!

Our version of a weizenbock starts with traditional bread, malty, and spicy flavor. Bourbon barrel-aging adds layers of vanilla and coconut.

Ride That Goat is oour spin on the classic, hearty, German wheat beer. Brewed to be bold and aged in our barrel cellar, this is a rich variation on a stellar beer style. Believe us when we say, once you Ride That Goat, you’ll never go bock.

==Introduction==

Released for Reserve society members in very small quantities Essentially, I do believe this is their Shegöat but aged in bourbon barrels. First time trying a Weizenbock that is barrel aged in bourbon. Leave it to the Bruery to make stuff like this come true. I have tried a barrel aged bock before from Schmaltz. However, knowing the Bruery’s take on bourbon barrel beer, I can only imagine this is going to be one of those beers that take stuff to another level. Let us see how true expectations really are. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Grilled Bananas with caramel dulce de leche de cabra, flan, wine notes, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, figs, dates,vanilla, coconut, marshmallows, almond joy chocolate, plantains, clove spice, bubble gum, banana chocolate cake, almonds, tapioca hints, Danish Cream pastry, rock candy, candy sugar, anise, rye bread, chocolate smores, cinnamon, honey and pilloncillo sugar cone.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche de Cabra Envinado (Goats Milk caramel in wine), flan, burnt sugar, crème brulee, grilled bananas, plantains, clove spice, bubble gum, vanilla, coconut, marshmallows, almond joy chocolate, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, figs, dates, rock candy, candy sugar, anise, rye bread, chocolate smores, cinnamon, honey, raisin bread pudding, piloncillo, citrus, coriander, toasted oak, apricot, peaches, cocada coconut candy, rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, hints of milk chocolate, marzipan, cherry and banana chocolate cake, almonds, tapioca hints and Danish Cream pastry.

Aftertaste:
Lingering flavors of caramel, banana, dark fruits, bourbon, marshmallows, coconut, earthy notes, spicy cinnamon and cloves. Slight boozyness in the taste but not really detracting from any of the rich flavors, dark crimson medium to full body, silky, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceeding my expectations and is now my favorite Weizenbock in the world. In a way, this beer is like taking one of their other styles, the German Dunkelweizens but taking it to a whole new level of intensity and richness that I do not think many German beers get to go to. The Bruery’s magic with using bourbon barrels proves how refined in their craft they are and this beer is no exception to that rule. This beer, I must say, was very enjoyable and I highly recommend it. Keep making the magic happen Patrick Rue, Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Astaroth from ShinraBansho was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the colors but also the theme of Goat being represented as a horned creature. The other deal is that since the name of the beer is Bokkenrijder as well, this goes with the whole folklore of Ghosts or Demons riding a goat provided by Satan himself. In this case, Astaroth being a favorite demon girl, she fit the bill of the goat or even the goat rider. Why else does this pair with the name? Well, if it is not obvious by some of the picture, it is pretty much innuendos. Ride that Demon girl! She is strong overall represented by her strength as a Hell Army General but her sexiness comes as part of the sweet and super complex flavors of the beer.

Sources:
http://safebooru.org/images/1304/41fb394a39b755dfa830e355c81113958cd5e9f1.jpg
http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm44/laminterious/furry/xfkgnt1yb3.jpg
http://k32.kn3.net/taringa/7/1/3/2/9/9/1/tensahollow/E12.jpg

2015 Batch No.1 Levud’s by The Bruery

September 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Batch No.1 Levud's, belgian golden ale, flagship beer, Hatsune Miku, Miku, The Bruery, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2015 Batch No.1 Levud’s by The Bruery is a 9.6% ABV Belgian Golden Ale

Label:
LIMITED RUN

The first beer that we ever brewed, now the first brewed on our new brewhouse. With Czech and Slovenian hops, this crisp, complex ale is sure to delight.

In 2008, we congratulated Mark Graham and Loren Miraglia for winning our Batch No. 1 Homebrew competition by brewing their beer as our very first batch. Recently, we decommissioned our original brewhouse and brought a new, state-of-the-art brewhouse to life. Recreating our first recipe seemed the best way to begin this new chapter in our brewing history. Levud’s is a Belgian-style golden ale that’s crisp, effervescent, complex and filled with memories and significance in our brewery’s history.

==Introduction==

Essentially, the original flagship beer of the Bruery. Their first batch was released once again 7 years since they first opened. This beer was released to Reserve Society members but I also had the chance to try the original when I went to this years Black Tuesday Treatment Workshop. It was essentially, a delicious Golden Ale. Now as I try to remember how the original one was, I will see how this one is as it is a fresh bottle while the other is 7 years old. Let’s see how it is. Cheers!

Aromas:
Belgian Candy Sugar, Citrus, Oranges, bananas, clove spice, stone fruit peaches, apricots, pears, apples, Floral notes, strawberry notes, lemon grass, honey dew melons, peppercorn, mango hints, bubble gum notes, rock candy, phenolic notes, herbal notes and cane sugar.

Flavors:
Floral notes, oranges, lemon grass, honey dew melons, peppercorn, mango hints, pineapple, strawberry notes, grapefruit, piney and herbal hops, phenolic notes, Belgian Candy Sugar, Rock Candy, bubble gum notes, bananas, clove spice, stone fruit peaches, apricots, pears, apples, dragon fruit, honey, vanilla, kiwi notes, papaya, marzipan and passion fruit.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some nice notes of the Belgian candy sugar, tropical fruit hints, stone fruits, phenolic notes, bread, peppercorn and herbal hops notes. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, Sipping drinkability, clear golden light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
A splendid first batch! This one was similar to the one I tried but not as hoppy. I think the nice hops give this one more of a balanced and complex taste with the flavors expanding on some of the flavors I love from Belgian IPAs and Golden Ales. Simply delicious. They surely have grown form all those years ago. While this beer is not the best and is similar to other delicious Golden Ales and Belgian IPAs, the style is made perfectly. Cheers to more years of beers!

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Hatsune Miku was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the color of the green label but also because she is a symbol of Anime culture and popularity of the medium just like the Bruery is a symbol of the craft beer culture and are very popular among many craft beer drinkers for their initiative to think outside the box and be very experimental. Also, the background pairs well with the many flavors of the beer.

Sources:
http://i2.minus.com/iyKNFmJCIPKBK.jpg

Endless Nameless by Cigar City

September 17, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Belgian Chocolate, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, chocolate cake, cigar city, Cigar City Brewing, creme brulee, dulce de leche caramel, Endless Nameless, Heaven Hill, Imperial Stout, Kill-LA-Kill, Kurt Cobain, Nevermind, Nirvana, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, The Bruery, World Class Imperial Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Endless Nameless by Cigar City is a ??% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Heaven Hill Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
endless.
nameless.
imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels.

==Introduction==

A name used from a hidden track off of Nirvana’s album, Nevermind. Cigar city brings this very big whale of a beer off the depths of the Grunge Rock abyss. Simply put, the Nirvana tribute beer, this beer was released as part of the El Catador reserve release. Only those in that association would be allowed to get this one. I was able to snag this bottle as soon as I saw it on www.mybeercollectibles.com. Needless to say, that sit can be super pricey but luckily I got this at a decent price. I really got it since I wanted to bring it forth to the website and see how it is. Now, on with the show.

Aromas:
Smells like Beer Spirit, or its dark soul. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German & Belgian chocolate, bakers chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, Mexican 3 leches/Three Milks cake, flan, Dulce De Leche Caramel, Vanilla, Rich Bourbon, oak, marshmallows, grahama cracker smores, molasses, bananas, crème brulee, dark raisins, dark cherries, plums, mocha coffee, Kahlua, Irish cream, agave syrup, candi sugar, rock candy, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, brown sugar and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Bananas, Flan, Vanilla, Bourbon, oak, Dulce De Leche Caramel, Mexican sweetened condensed milk, Mexican 3 leches/Three Milks cake, molasses, hazelnut nectar, tobacco, leather, rye, maple syrup, dark cherries, currants, plums, blueberries, raspberries, dark cherries, coconut pie, mocha, crème brulee, toffee, brown sugar, cotton candy, choco flan, candi sugar, rocky road icecream, almond joy, Kahlua, Irish cream, agave syrup, Yoohoo Chocolate Milk Shake, Chocolate cake and chocolate cheese cake.

Aftertaste:
Long lingering dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, crème brulee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, hazelnut, dark cherries, marshmallow, pecan pie, coconut pie, bananas, bourbon notes and chocolate cake. Slight booziness but super subtle to keep stuff balanced and not detract from the flavors, beyond the endless and nameless darkness of the abyss body, smooth and sipping drinkability, silky, velvety and syrupy mouth feel.

Overall:
Essentially, this is the Black Tuesday of Cigar City and the East Coast. So many reminiscent flavors of Black Tuesday but leaning more toward milk candies and desserts. Either way, this is ridiculously balanced with the amount of complexity and alcohol. This is definitely a world class beer and a must get to add to your collection of super whales. A Nirvana whale is one beast of a while to collect for a special occasion.

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill (one of my top 4 anime girls) was used in this pairing to pair mainly with the name of the song and the meaning behind it as well as the darkness the beer represents. In the series, Ryuko had to deal with turmoil and darkness. This beer represents that very chaos and attitude in her heart when stuff was not going well in her life during the sad parts of the show. She pulled through ofcourse! She didn’t lose her way! Just like the frustration Kurt Cobain felt as they said fuck it when recording Lithium! And created the song. The beer is dark as the endless abyss with no name.

Sources:
http://static.tumblr.com/3a0b53c0f68bfa5cdf6c584209ffd8f7/9dd108p/eSmn9wfk0/tumblr_static_cq0y11ev48owsg4ksow8okscc.jpg

Pumpkin Spice Milk Stout by Belching Beaver

September 16, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Beaver, Belching Beaver, fall flavors, Metroid, Milk Stout, Nintendo, Pumpkin beer, pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice, Pumpkin Spice Milk Stout, Samus, Samus Aran, Sweet Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.45/5

Pumpkin Spice Milk Stout by Belching Beaver is a 5.3% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Pumpkin spices.

Label:
It’s all about the Beaver
We came out with this beer when we first opened in 2012; our first derivative of our Nitro “Beaver’s Milk” stout and people loved it. Everyone, but the brewers. The spices were clogging up the nitro spouts. We were constantly cleaning them. Troy would not make it the same again the following year. So now you know what I have to deal with. It’s always production verse sales. Dave and I love the beer and wanted it back. So basically this year, I pre-sold some rather larger accounts, I’m just sneaky that way. So we have to make it now, and we did. Hints of Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, you know, Pumpkin Pie! – Tom

==Introduction==

Belching Beavers has been one of those awesome breweries that has really nailed the aspect beer and beer flavors almost to the T in taste. The Peanut Butter Milk Stout has been a super favorite for my friends Oscar and Julio for the longest time. Our trip earlier even justified it with their brewery only release of the Milk coconut stout. Since then, I have reviewed other beers like the Me So Honey, Great Lei IPA and the Me So Honey, All great beers. So now that they released this Fall offering, it was obvious I wanted to bring this one to the site as well. This is the first pumpkin beer I review this year. I have reviewed many of the best in the craft beer world and hold Belching Beaver to high standards but still going non biased, I will try this one and see where it stands in my many pumpkin beer reviews. Cheers!

Aromas:
Chocolate, coffee cake hints, mild pumpkin, nutmeg, allspice, clove spice, ginger spice, mint, marshmallows, anise, licorice hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate,pumpkin pie, roasted malts, milk sugar, pumpkin spice latte, citrus, vanilla, caramel and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Pumpkin, candy corn, mint, anise, licorice hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate,pumpkin pie, marshmallow hints, roasted malts, milk sugar, pumpkin spice latte, vanilla, caramel, ginger spice, ginger bread, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove spice, banana hints, citrus, Danish cream hints, buttermilk crust hints, brown sugar, citrus and coffee cake hints.

Aftertaste:
Pumpkin spice, earthy notes, vanilla, cinnamon, roasted malt notes, milk sugar, dark chocolate and mint. No alcohol in the the tastes, dark full body, creamy, smooth and silky mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good Pumpkin beer for sure but even while it does lean toward the pumpkin spiced milk lattes in a way, it unfortunately does not exceed my expectations in terms of some of the other pumpkin beers I have had before. What can I say, I’m a Picky Pumpkin Eater/Drinker. It is still the delicious Belching Beaver type of beer many love which I really do but I come from a background where pumpkin beers actually taste like actual pumpkin pie, pumpkin flesh, or rich pumpkin in Mexican pilloncillo and, milk and cinnamon stick, like the kind of desserts my mom used to make. I’m looking at my all time faves, Smashing Pumpkin by Shipyard. I have to be fair though because this is not strictly a pumpkin beer and it actually falls more with the pumpkin stouts and porters. The best one of those styles was the Midnight Sun T.R.E.A.T. Still though, this is a delicious little minty pumpkin pie milk stout and as that, it is very good so I recommend it even worth the try.

Anime Corner:
Samus Aran from Metroid makes her way to this Halloween pairing. Reason I wanted to pair Samus with this beer is because pumpkins and she has many delicious pumpkins. That and this is the first time I try a Halloween pairing with Samus anyway. The beer and the art says how good the beer is that you will want to leave that candy pumpkin glass dry!

Sources:
http://pre08.deviantart.net/561c/th/pre/f/2014/300/1/c/halloween_by_splashbrush-d84e3tt.jpg
http://img08.deviantart.net/ad07/i/2014/266/c/d/sweater_samus_by_splashbrush-d80a8vz.jpg

Stochasticity Project Your Father Smelt Of Elderberries by Stone brewing

September 16, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Ancient Ale, Elderberries, Medieval Ale, Stochasticity, Stochasticity Project, Stone Brewing, stone brewing co, Your Father Smelt Of Elderberries | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Stochasticity Project Your Father Smelt Of Elderberries by Stone brewing is a 10.3% ABV Medieval Ale brewed with Elderberries

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.

Getting medieval on a long-forgotten beer from times long gone
Stochasticity Project beers bravely explore lesser-trod territory. Imagine if you will emerging from the furthest depths of the dark, misty forest of time holding a chalice (perhaps one of catholically divine caliber) filled with an ale style dating back to medieval England. We find ourselves carried by the gait of hooves (which oddly sound like someone is clacking together two empty coconut halves) and happen upon a caste siege. Insults are being hurled from the walls above from …Frenchmen? Time to run away (after one last whack at the mighty stone castle walls with a broadsword) to discuss strategy just beyond the reach of catapulted bovines. Beer brewed with elderberries is freely shared. What strategies come from this? Trojan Rabbit! A brilliant ruse they’re sure to…catapult. Word to the wise, Sir Bedivere. Don’t strategize whilst drinking elderberry beer or the constables may show up at the end of your flick.

Beer Facts

Malt Varieties
2-Row Pale, Mild Ale, Amber, Pale Malt and Flaked Oats

Hop Varieties
English Goldings and Target

Special Ingredient
Elderberries

==Introduction==

Tribute to the old Monty Python and the Holy Grail in which one of the knights above the castle in the movie quoted “Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAy4zULKFDU). This beer, as stated in the description, is a medieval or ancient ale style brewed with elderberries. It is not often I get to try beers with elderberries specifically but I can only imagine they are close to the sweetness you may get from currants or black berries. Well, this being a Medieval ale, cheers to our own craft beer kingdoms my noble readers!

Aromas:
Caramel, toffee, vanilla, marshmallow, toasted barley, dark fruit raisins, figs, currants, Blackberries, elderberries, cherry notes, boysenberry preserves on toasted rye bread, pecan pie hints, Danish cream pastry, smoked peat hints, earthy and herbal hop notes.

Flavors:
Toffee, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit currants, Blackberries, elderberries, cherry notes, tangy Concorde grape skins, floral notes like hibiscus, biscuit bread, butterscotch notes, smoked peat hints, earthy and herbal hop notes, vanilla hints, boysenberry preserves on toasted rye bread, pecan pie hints, Danish cream pastry, roasted barley and marshmallow.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with dark fruit sweetness from the berries with a slight tart note, caramel, vanilla, biscuit bread, earthy notes and herbal bitter dryness. No alcohol in the taste despite the 10.3% ABV. Bloody crimson clear color, smooth creamy, refreshing and silky mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer show casing some good malt backbone and some nice fruit and herbal like flavors. The complexity is bountiful but not over the top as other beers. Still, while not being cloying, this is a pretty damn good fruit dessert with a variety of bitter sweet moments to keep stuff interesting. If this is indeed a lost ancient recipe, they must have had it really good back then with this beer. Recommended and worth the try.

Anime Corner:
Original Artwork by Interitio was used in this pairing as I wanted to go with a somewhat medieaval look while maintaining the whole elderberries. While I could not get the whole father part it, you can infer from the art work that this is a medieval queen whose king’s influence on her resonates his power… and his scent of elderberries. Sorry it is a stretch but I really liked how the whole berries concept pairs with her dress.

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/435117-900×1200-original-interitio-long+hair-single-tall+image-purple+hair.png

Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing

September 16, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged banana, banana notes, Belgian Dubbel, brown sugar, clove spice, dark fruit, dark fruits, monkish, monkish brewing, raisin bread pudding, Rock Candy, Shadowboxing, Shaolin Fist | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing is a 7% ABV Belgian Dubbel

==Introduction==

Obtained a growler fill at Monkish. Many of the great beers I have tried but this time I wanted to bring an original Dubbel style from them. The Shaolin Fist was the dubbel but with Szechuan peppercorns and this is the original. I may do a review on the Shaolin Fist sometime in the future but for the mean time, here is the review for the original athlete, the dubbel! Cheers!

Aromas:
dulce de leche caramel, rock candy, candy sugar, Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, cherries, blackberry, dates, vanilla, biscuit bread, clove spice, banana notes, Stone fruit peaches and brown sugar notes.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, cherries, blackberry, dates, Stone fruit peaches, vanilla, biscuit bread, clove spice, banana notes, rich dulce de leche caramel, rock candy, candy sugar, toffee, molasses, blackberry marmalade, pecan pie hints, raisin bread pudding and fruit cake hints.

Aftertaste:
Nice rich dark fruit, clove spice, banana notes, earthy notes and candy sugar finish. No alcohol in the taste, medium brown body, smooth, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious Dubbel reminiscent of the delicious Dubbels of Belgium. Sweet mainly and some spicy goodness as part of Dubbels to keep stuff balanced. A good amount of the dark fruits, Belgian candy sugar and more all over. I recommend a try if you are ever at Monkish Brewing.

Anime Corner:
Original Boxer girl was used in this paring as I wanted to pair with the theme of boxing mainly. The name of shadowboxing is the style and training one does to compete in the sport. How does the beer relate to the name it is given? I do not know but two fist are needed to box. If boxing was a form used by monks of Asia (I guess Kick Boxing would work) then the relation to Monks by name and a tie to Belgian Monks and Tibet monks then the beer might have its link by proxy.

Sources:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dPstQVRYKoM/TcL2IeYCHCI/AAAAAAAAIJw/fNyu3KN_920/s9000/BoxerGirl.jpg

Decadence 2015 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith

September 12, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Alesmith, alesmith brewing, Belgian Amber Ale, Belgian Red Ale, Belgian Strong Ale, Decadence, Decadence 2015, Ignis, jingai makyou, Jingai Makyō | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Decadence 2015 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Belgian Strong Red/Amber.

Label:
AleSmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Each year since, our brewers had commemorated our anniversary with a special beer of a new style. Now Ten Years after brewing our first beer of the Decadence series, We’re proud to present another hand-forged addition, Alesmith Decadence 2015.

In the spirit of traditional Belgian brewing we’ve departed from style-constraints to bring you a fresh take on the popular European style, the Belgian Amber. This big, complex, amber-hued ale was brewed with a substantial amount of Belgian and European malts that complement the spiciness imparted by Belgian abbey yeast. The result is a perfect balance between rich, toasty maltiness, Belgian Candi sugar and the light, floral profile of European hops. Enjoy this hearty Belgian-inspired brew now or age at a cool temperature to increase its complexities.

==Introduction==

Happy 20th Anniversary to Alesmith and many years to come. Whenever I think of beers that are like The Bruery or Cigar City, you know, really rich in flavor profile, I think of of of San Diego’s finest. Alesmith is one of the faves in San Diego among Stone, Lost Abbey, Belching Beaver and others. Alesmith has been grown little by little and will surely be something more some day. They already distribute to many places. I think one of the reasons they are awesome because they can take styles of beer to higher heights (and in some cases, higher alcohol) than others. So this time, they rolled out a Belgian Amber. The last time I tried this style was with the Ommegang Game of Thrones beer which was very good. However, let’s really look at this one and see how it compares or if it surpasses. I don’t know! Either way, Cheers!!

Aromas:
Rye bread, clove spice, banana hints, biscuit bread, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit figs, raisins, raspberries, cherries, Dulce de leche caramel, peppercorn, peanut butter hints, pecan pie, floral notes, waffle cone, vanilla, Danish cream brown sugar, cinnamon, flan hints dragon fruit and old oranges.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Bananas, clove spice, rye bread, biscuit bread, dark fruit figs, raisins, raspberries, cherries, peppercorn, stone fruit peaches, apricots, toffee, apples, honey, pecan pie, floral hop notes, waffle cone, vanilla, Danish cream, brown sugar, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon hints, marzipan, flan hints, butterscotch, old oranges, peanut butter hints, dragonfruit and mango hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruit, stone fruit, earthy notes,vanilla, rye bread, peanut butter hints and orange candy zest finish. No alcohol in the taste, ruby red crimson light to hazy body, silky, creamy, chewy mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A Perfect Amber that is so damn rich with lots of the rich Belgian flavors that I like plus so much more. Reminding me of the Ommegang Game of Thrones as I thought but this one is way more rich. So many of the flavors are amplified more and are more complex. Maybe not up to the Flanders styles but damn, this is very Belgian-inspired. I think if you love Belgians, make sure to give this a shot. Might be the best Belgian Red I have ever had!

Anime Corner:
Ignis from Jingai Makyo was used in this pairing since I wanted to get a powerful red girl to pair with the red Belgian. Ignis complements the beer in the color, the style, the alcohol and so many other things. I am not sure if the the Rooster and The Lion represent something related to Iginis but in a way it does. Red like the roosters crest and brave like the lion. Holy shit, I think Alesmith really had something magical going on with this beers. Awesome stuff!!

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Ignis.(Jingai.Makyo).full.891901.jpg
http://www.interbutt.org/plog-content/images/sfwmaybe/wallpapers/minitokyo.anime.wallpapers.jingai.makyo_192130.jpg

The Devil is People by Stillwater Artisanal

September 12, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Battleship-Symbiotic Hime, Bonnie Stillwater, Gose, Kancolle/Kantai Collection, Smoked Ale, Sour Wheat, Stillwater Artisanal, The Devil is People, wheat beer | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

The Devil is People by Stillwater Artisanal is a 6.66% ABV Sour Smoked Wheat Ale/ Smoked Gose.

Label:
“Bonnie Stillwater is a conceptual collaboration of artistry & friendship. Indie folk-punk legend, Will Oldham (aka Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy), experimental music ensemble, Watter, and post modern beer designers, Stillwater Artisanal, assembled in Louisville

The collective then set out to create a unique sensory experience built on existential philosophy and the love of craftsmanship.”

12” single available at: temporaryresidence.com
==Introduction==

Finally got around to bringing another Stillwater Artisanal beer to the site. It surely has been a minute and my reviews have been lacking but dying to bring some Stillwater goodness to the site. This time I bring an interesting beer. Aside from the whole occult aspect which really intrigues me, this is a smoked wheat beer. I want to say that my first experience with sour wheat ales has really been from Texas. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of beermetaldude.com, I have tried the style in the past a couple of times. So to have it from Stillwater, this is going to be an experience for sure. Let us take a dip into the darkness that is, this light looking beer! Cheers!

Aromas:
Lemon peel, straw hay, crackers, farmhouse hay, smoked jerky, peppercorns, wheat, coriander spice, Oranges, White grapes, Sage spice, Sour grapes, funky must, mushrooms, earthy notes, Tejuino, sea salt, lavender, hibiscus, rose hips, juniper berries, lemon drop and smokey campfire notes.

Flavors:
Oranges, Lemon peel, White grapes, Sage spice, Sour grapes, funky must, mushrooms, earthy notes, oak, vanilla hints, smokey campfire notes, Tejuino, sea salt, lavender, hibiscus, rose hips, juniper berries, lemon drops, crackers, farmhouse hay, smoked jerky, peppercorns, wheat, coriander spice, beachwood, stone fruit tart apricots, tart green apple hints, mango and pears.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some sour notes, sea salt, smokey notes, tart fruits and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, light golden body, crisp, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
If you love smokey and sour beers, damn this is a damn delicious blend! Stuff is very pleasant sour and smokey with hints of sweet and sour and salty goodness. For the Gypsy brewer who focuses on the saisons and wild ales, this is definitely a winner in my book. Aside from the captivation and great art work, Stillwater has yet to let me down and the beers are always some of the best out there. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Battleship Symbiotic Hime from Kantai Collection/ KanColle was used in this pairing to pair with the woman in the label but also the skeleton/devil figure of the label. It is kind of ironic how this piece actually contributes to both the Metal Pairings my friend Aaron does and the Anime Pairings I do. It is almost like the beer was made for both Anime and Metal!? Yes, this does exist!!

Here is a link to the song this beer references: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLYK1AfRBmY

Sources:
http://mmbiz.qpic.cn/mmbiz/eaPknNTibGM0sSDeZvJACoLm11C6Vc1iaKA4yoZGHt13V1rQSACLUHy5IWVJUhpRjO4rbKlYV9G9TuNDB68piagCw/0

Mangö by Clown Shoes

September 12, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Kölsch, clown shoes, Clown Shoes Brewing, Crunkle Sam, German Kölsch, Kölsch, mango, passion fruit, Starry Orange | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Mangö by Clown Shoes is a 6.5% ABV American Kölsch brewed with Mango.

Label:
Crunkle Sam, tired of being a mere anomaly as a most refreshing summertime Barleywine ale, targeted a German beer style and bastardized it. He had us brew a traditional Kolsch, but made us dry hop it and add all natural mango flavor. Warning: This beer is NOT Reinheitsgebot!

==Introduction==

Passing this beer up a couple of times, I decided I finally give it a shot and bring it here for a review. Mainly because it is close to 100°F weather and its is super hot this summer. El Godzilla Niño strikes with no remorse and the heat is unbearable. Leave it to Clown Shoes to make an awesome summertime beer. This is the second time I try a Kölsh and to be honest, it is the next best thing next to the pilsner. So since this one is made with mango, lets take a dive and see what tropics this one awaits! Cheers!

Aromas:
Mango notes, cereal grains, strawberry notes, mango candy, stone fruit apricot, peaches, citrus, oranges, lemon peel, pilsner malt, cereal grain, strawberry notes, herbal and grassy hop hints, banana notes, coriander spice Banana hints, pineapple hints, honey dew melon, prickly pear, passion fruit hints, and dragon fruit hints.

Flavors:
Mango, Banana hints, pineapple hints, honey dew melon, prickly pear, passion fruit hints, dragon fruit hints, mint, citrus, oranges, lemon peel, pilsner malt, cereal grain, strawberry notes, herbal and grassy hop hints, mango candy, vanilla hints, biscuit bread, apple notes, stone fruit peaches, apricots, coriander spice and Danish cream notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some mango and other tropical fruit notes and citrus with hints of herbal hops
No alcohol in the taste, Lemon colored light to medium body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouth feel and easy to drink.

Overall:
Very delicious and refreshing beer. While I understand that they use natural mango flavoring for this one, it still does not hide that the beer overall is a delicious beer. I made my Mango Double IPA with real mango which was above this one but we really compare apples to oranges. This is the best one for the summer. Not too boozy, ridiculous drinkability, not too sweet even thought he rich fruit flavors are there but not cloying at all. Definitely hit this one up before the summer is gone. It made this hot day way more tolerable. Thanks Crunkle Sam!

Anime Corner:
Original character by Pyon Kichi for the Album “Starry Orange” which was composed by Artist DJ Genki was used in this pairing to show case how American the girl is as she almost looks like the Statue of Liberty with her crown. That complements Crunkle Sam as he is surrounded by tropical fruits like the mangos. This beer overall and the art scream summertime no doubt about it and ‘Murrica!

Sources:
http://blog-imgs-65.fc2.com/o/t/a/otakunanikki3/yande_re2029442620sample.jpg

Sunrise Prayer Saison by Avila Ales

September 10, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Avila Ales, Farmhouse Ale, Fate Stay Night, Home brewing, Saber, Saison, Sunrise Prayer Saison | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.65/5

Sunrise Prayer Saison by Avila Ales is a 6% ABV American Farmhouse Ale/Saison.

==Introduction==
Partial base wort was brewed using brewing equipment at Monkish for the “Monster Home brew Event” back in June 2015. The idea was to create a base pale wort using the equipment at Monkish brewing. Each person would get 5 gallons (or 10 or more depending on how much you would pay) from this concoction you would take it home add to the wort to change the style completely to more than 10 different styles of beer. For the second batch, my friend Richard Avila brewed a saison. Thanks to his donation, now we can take a look at a different perspective of a different style using the same Monkish wort but made as a saison. Cheers.

Aromas:
Bubblegum, Bananas, waffle cone, honey comb Biscuit bread, vanilla, Belgian Candy sugar, oranges, citrus, lemon peel, tangerine gummy hints, clove spice, stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, honey dew melon, cantaloupe, mango hints and Danish cream hints.

Flavors:
Bananas, Clove spice, Belgian bread, lemon peel, farmhouse hay, bubble gum, stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, honey dew melon, cantaloupe, mango hints, white grapes, peppercorn, wafflecone, honeycomb, coriander spice, Belgian Candy sugar, oranges, citrus, lemon peel, tangerine gummy hints, vanilla and Danish cream hints.

Aftertaste:
Stone fruits, banana, coriander, clove spice, tropical hints and Belgian candy in the aftertaste.
No alcohol in the taste, clear gold straw body, smooth, crisp, refreshing and sweet mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very awesome saison definitely close to the awesomeness of the French speaking Belgian inspired farm house ale. This beer was better than the pale ale. I am not sure if it is the original wort or the fact that part was made in a Belgian inspired brewery but the style is very delicious and reminiscent of the Saison. Great job to my friend even if the wort seemed a little off due to the way it may have been made but he managed to make it a very delicious Belgian saison. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Saber from Fate Stay Night was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair a character that has similar attire to a nun to pair with the Abbey style but also the name of the beer. In this setting, Saber prays as the sunrises in the background. The golden color of the beer pairs with the sun rays and her hair but also the flavors and the style pair with the great effort of Belgian Monasteries that brew beer in the name of the lord. Lots of work and dedication to the craft.

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/390216-3342×2970-fate+%28series%29-fatestay+night-type-moon-saber-takeuchi+takashi-long+hair.jpg

Tropical Day Dream Pale Ale by Avila Ales

September 10, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Ale, APA, Avila Ales, Citra Hops, Home brewing, Pale Ale, Tropical Day Dream Pale Ale, tropical flavors | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Tropical Day Dream Pale Ale by Avila Ales is a 5% ABV American Pale Ale brewed with Citra Hops

==Introduction==
Partial base wort was brewed using brewing equipment at Monkish for the “Monster Home brew Event” back in June 2015. The idea was to create a base pale wort using the equipment at Monkish brewing. Each person would get 5 gallons (or 10 or more depending on how much you would pay) from this concoction you would take it home add to the wort to change the style completely to more than 10 different styles of beer. My friend Richard Avila and I went to Monkish on that day to buy 10 gallons of wort each. This is the first custom batch he made using citra hops. Thanks to my friend Richard for sharing this one with me and as a tribute, I was able to bring this beer over to the website.

Aromas:
Grapefruit, lemon juice, lemon peel, passion fruit, tart apples, Stone fruit hints like peach, tropical fruit like mango, peppercorn and green tea.

Flavors:
Lots of grapefruit, citrus, lemon peel, rich passion fruit, guava, prickly pear, grassy hops, floral hops, mango, peppercorn, honey dew melon, tart apples, stone fruit peach hints, green tea, herbal notes, grape hints, papaya, pineapple and biscuit bread.

Aftertaste:
Leaving a dry finish in the taste with some residual tropical fruit notes. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy yellow medium body, crisp, clean, refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very good pale ale. While there maybe some off flavoring due to the original wort being from Monkish, I think the control in the brewing and addition of my friend’s own ingredients to the beer made it a great style. Definitely rich in the tropical aspects including the rich grapefruit and tropical fruit. The only off flavors maybe the bit of lemony tartness or the green tea or tart apple hints but overall making it a pretty wonderful experience overall for being a pale ale. It definitely surpasses the first Pale Ale I made. I think my friend definitely has a great amount of experience to get next batch the way he likes as he will have more control of the wort.

Anime Corner:
Original artwork by Yuuza of DeviantArt was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the flavors of the beer with the name. The colors representing the vast majority of tropical fruit goodness but alse the aspect of day dreaming which the mind uses to create figments of the imagination. This beer is like a dream in the sense that it tastes so rich and juicy like tropical fruits even for such a low ABV. Even in the artwork, you can see how the day dreams come to life as they are created upon the stroke of the pain brush the mind wields.

Sources:
http://orig12.deviantart.net/be4b/f/2014/023/e/1/painting_the_world_by_yuuza-d64n3cv.jpg

Delicious IPA by Stone Brewing

September 3, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Delicious IPA, El Dorado hops, india pale ale, IPA, King of Fighters, KOF, lemon candy, Lemondrop hops, Leona, Leona Heidern, Stone Brewing, tropical fruit | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Delicious IPA by Stone Brewing is a 7.7% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with Lemondrop and El Dorado hops.

Label: (Not from this picture but from the actual bottle)
From the beginning, Stone has been obsessed with the mission of providing people access to high-quality craft beer. After all, great beer is for everyone and anyone with the good taste to recognize it, not just a niche group like us uber beer geeks. So, when we developed this pleasantly bitter, deliciously citrusy, hop-driven IPA, we took it as an opportunity to go a step further and do something we’d spent over a year researching and perfecting: creating a beer that makes it possible for nearly everyone to experience our aggressive, no-holds-barred approach to craft brewing. It’s a flavorful, cutting-edge, modern-day IPA for everyone. Lemondrop and El Dorado hops provide plenty of fruit citrus character and a burst of hop zing that sings on the palate. We’re proud to present it to those who already know us for our IPA prowess and to those who, so far, have only heard legends.

==Introduction==

So this is one of those Stone beers that has been out for a while and while I have neglected to bring this one for a review as I overlooked it (it happens when you are busy homebrewing) I decided to get a growler of this beer and give a shot. The first time I tried this beer as at the Bruery Cooperversary and I can say it was a tasty brew. Now that I have a whole growler, I will take my time to analyze it and see what it has to offer. Come join me and see. This beer is readily available at many of the stores that sell Stone beers. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lemon drop candies, grapefruit, citrus, lemon peel, peppercorn, minty hints, Stone fruit peaches, mango hints, tangerines, lychee fruit hints, floral lavender hints, lemon verbana, Citrus, lemon, grapefruit, herbal, piney, grassy, floral and tropical hops, Oranges, tangerine, Tropical fruits like guava, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, prickly pear tuna, peppery notes and strawberries.

Flavors:
Citrus, lemon, grapefruit, herbal, piney, grassy, floral and tropical hops. There are many tropical but special herbally aspects to this one. Lots of lemon candy, Oranges, tangerine, guava, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, prickly pear tuna, peppery notes, strawberries, raspberries, toffee, caramel, vanilla hints, mint notes, sweetened condensed milk, Stone fruit peaches, mango hints, tangerines, lychee fruit hints, floral lavender hints, lemon verbana and blackberries.

Aftertaste:
Leaving some dank resonance of the herbal and tropical fruit notes while some other fruits like the strawberry, raspberry, lemon candy, starburst, sweetened condensed milk and dank hop dryness remains. No alcohol in the taste, clear golden body, rich, refreshing and crisp mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability

Overall:
Well, what can be said about this beer that isn’t already on the label. It is very good and delicious. Not to the extreme complexity of their Enjoy By but these new flavors you don’t find typically in some of their other IPAs makes this very good. I consider this one a more moderate palate IPA. Especially for those that may not typically like hoppy grassy IPAs, this one is more on the tropical side so it helps out for sure. A definite try for IPA lovers and Hop Heads alike.

Anime Corner:
Leona Heidern from the King of Fighters Series was used in this pairing mainly since I have not used Leona in a long time, I haven’t paired her with a Stone beer and yet, she belongs for many different reasons. The colors she wears complement the colors of the normal green label but the camo she wears represents the hidden alcohol and the rich tropical flavors are that of the tropical scenes and jungles she can fit in. Her Blue Ocean teal surge of hair represents the berries and extravagant other sweet flavors that come from this beer. A sweet yet still strong beer for sure.

Sources:
http://orig09.deviantart.net/6b91/f/2011/162/c/f/hb_to_my_cousin_by_gh18-d3incrz.jpg

The Arbre Series: Light Toast, Medium Toast and Alligator Char by The Bruery (Triple Review)

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Alligator Char, Arbre, Arbre series, Beachwood, Chocolate, dark chocolate, Imperial Stout, Light Toast, Medium Toast, milk Chocolate, Oak, Oak aged, oak barrel, oak barrels, Raven, smoke, smokey, Teen titans, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Introduction:
The Arbre series as described by Patrick Rue, is a series of Imperial Stouts that have been aged in different types of oak barrels ranging from 45 second toast of the barrel all the way to completely charred. This series was released in August 2015 for the Reserve and Hoarders society. Today, I bring these forth to explain the story of each individual beer taking a whole lot of time and concentration trying to come up with what flavor experience hides within each one. This is the first time I do a triple review and well, I realize this will take me several hours to do. The thing is, this type of review took me a couple of days of trying a couple of sips at a time trying to recall each beer and how it was the same and what intricate parts were different. Essentially, this introduction is technically the last touches as the body of the review holds all my notes. It is not an easy task just to look at the most apparent flavors and try to find the complexity beneath each sip of these three beers but it was a task well endeavored. So let’s see what all these beers are all about, Cheers!

Arbre Light Toast
============
Arbre Light Toast by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in light toasted oak barrels.

Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.

The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This lightest variation reveals young nutty notes of oak as well as raisins and a slight smoke.

Aromas:
Light smoke, BBQ hints, leather hints, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, light oak notes, leather, tobacco, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherry, blue berries, wood plant, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, light oak notes, leather, tobacco, rye, light beachwood, light marshmallow notes, graham crackers, molasses, anise, bacon hints, BBQ, mild smoked wood, bourbon hints, coconut, brown sugar, almond joy chocolate dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherry, blueberries, wood plant, caramel, vanilla, minor hints of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate milk shake.

Aftertaste:
Dry oak, earthy notes, light toasted oak, rye bread, milk chocolate, BBQ hints, and wood plant like finish. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good toasty Imperial stout. The Wood is definitely young as it imparts a light plant like flavor with a dry oaky finish. A pretty good beer especially for this that do not like a lot of oak in their beer. Also, the alcohol level is well hidden and does not detract anything from the beer. Definitely worth the try for light smoke and oak lovers.

Arbre Medium Toast
================
Arbre Medium Toast by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in medium toasted oak barrels.

Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.

The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This medium variation show cases a strong smokey depth and caramelization.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, cherry hints, currants, anise, molasses, soy sauce, oak barrel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, leather, rye bread, smokey hints, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, chocolate brownie and plum sauce.

Flavors:
More caramel forward, soy sauce, and roasted marshmallow flavor than the original flavors, still some dark fruit cherry, raisins, molasses, anise, Milk chocolate, richer dark chocolate, oak notes, leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, vanilla, marshmallow smores, whiskey notes, sweet potato pie, back wrapped dark chocolate and chocolate burnt brownie.

Aftertaste:
Semi dry finish with the BBQ, smoked notes, caramel, dark fruit, soy sauce, earthy notes, oak, rye bread and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious beer that is better than the light one as the medium toast introduces some newer sweeter flavors of soy sauce, molasses and caramel but also enhances the original flavors of the light version of the beer. An enhanced smokey experience a slightly higher level of sweet and smokey levels make this one the next greater beer. The level of oak if a bit higher than before so if you do not like smoke or oaked beers, maybe this may not be for you.

Arbre Alligator Char
============
Arbre Alligator Char by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in charred oak barrels.

Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.

The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This heaviest char variation reveals a heavy dose of smoke, vanilla and molasses.

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, smoke,leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, Abuelita chocolate brick, molasses, soy sauce, dark fruit cherry, raisin, blueberries, currants, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, flan, clove spices, bananas, campfire wood, dark fruit cherry, raisins, blueberries, currants, raspberry, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, almond joy chocolate and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Smoked wood, campfire wood, rich dark chocolate, leather, tobacco, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, Abuelita chocolate brick, vanilla, caramel, molasses anise, soy sauce, dark fruit cherry, raisins, blueberries, currants, raspberry, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, toasted coconut, smoking wood, brownie batter, butterscotch, sweetened condensed milk, flan, clove spices and bananas.

Aftertaste:
Syrupy burnt chocolate notes, smokey burnt oak, BBQ sauce hints, vanilla, dark fruits, earthy notes, hazelnut nectar, molasses and toffee lingers. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The exceptional charred oaked one releases even more complexity. I think of the 3, overall I really like this one. Trying each is almost like a build up beer. Something I don’t think I have ever done before nor have a taken a careful analysis of each to be able to do 3 at a time, side by side comparisons. While this one is the one I like the most, the more charred and oaked flavors may not be for everyone so if you love charred, oaked and smoked beers, this is a king type of beer. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans graces these three Bruery pairings with dark and hell delights. Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos! Are the words that grace each of the three beers, all unique and delicious. Since she was born half human, half demon it fits the beers in terms of her powers ranging from light being the more gentle human and sweet side as we can see in the beer pairing and the flavors but then you can see as she slowly goes higher in power, so does the fire. Burning with rage until reaching the third beer which is where she is in control of her full powers, we can see that at the Alligator charred stage, lots more burning more than oak flavors appear signifying that of a demon burning in hell or in this case, the beer. The aspect Arbre being that of trees fits with the night appearance of the beer as the Ravens linger in the night and so does Raven herself.

Rating: 4.5/5 Light Toast
Rating: 4.85/5 Medium Toast
Rating: 5.25/6 Alligator Char

Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapers.in/walls/raven-HD.jpg
http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20141201001048/ssb/images/thumb/5/59/Teen_Titans_Raven_.jpg/1280px-Teen_Titans_Raven_.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/1055635#full
http://images-cdn.moviepilot.com/images/c_fill,h_995,w_640/t_mp_quality/u0jjzwntnjn2nkdomdu5/4-og-s-who-could-kill-mkx-shinnok-in-mortal-kombat-506228.jpg

Gypsy Tart by The Bruery Terreux

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Blackberry Cobbler, concord grapes, dessert, dulce de leche caramel, England, English Pastry, Flemish Brown ale, Flemish Red Brown Ale, Gypsy Tart, leche flan, pecan pie, pie beer, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Zone, Zone Tan | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

Gypsy Tart by The Bruery Terreux is an 8.4% ABV Flemish Brown Ale.

Commercial Description:
Gypsy Tart is a Flanders-style brown ale with a California touch. A beer that can trace it’s origins to Great Britain, but more famously perfected in western Belgium, has been updated through our own modern techniques, delivering the sweet body and mildly tart finish that has won over numerous generations of beer drinkers in Europe. Our rendition of this wonderful beer style is perfect for both sour beer amateurs and advocates alike.

==Introduction==

Gypsy Tart, named after the evaporated milk pastry from England, is what this beer is based off. A dessert beer/sour. The last time I had something like this could be the Window Sill or “Rhubarb Pie” beer. This beer was released to Reserve Society members and you may have to try and trade for this one as I am not sure if the Bruery will release it to the public. Either way, a dessert pie like beer? Damn right, sign me up! Cheers!

Aromas:
Wine grapes, funky must, dark fruit raisins, cherries, cherry skins, Currant, figs, sweet purple yams, Chocolate, Blackberry cobbler, cherry cobbler, blackberry marzipan, lemons, port wine, weetened condensed milk, blackberry yogurt, coffee cake, dulce de leche caramel, grape sugar, muscavado sugar, candy sugar, concord grapes, flan hints, hazelnut nectar and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Dark Fruit Currant, figs, sweet purple yams, Blackberry cobbler, cherry cobbler, blackberry marzipan, grapes, gypsy tart pie, sweetened condensed milk, blackberry yogurt, coffee cake, dulce de leche caramel, grape sugar, muscavado sugar, candy sugar, concord grapes, flan hints, rock candy, coconut, toffee, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, marzipan, almond fudge, rye bread, Danish cookies, lemon peel, tart citrus, oranges, lychee fruit, port wine, chocolate notes, piloncillo sugar cone, raisin bread pudding and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Grapes, hazelnut, blackberry yogurt, pecan pie, Blackberry cobbler, caramel, rye bread, raisn bread pudding and wine grapes. No alcohol in the taste, Blood Red and Brown Medium to Full Body, silky, smooth, creamy and syrupy mouth feel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Possibly the best Flesmish Brown Ale I have ever had. Another exceptional balanced sweet and sour beer. This time, the interesting malty sweetness along with the tart sourness balances out making this a more sweeter beer. Somehow, their special recipe of a beer is hard to mimic. How can they make a dessert beer from a sour? Well, Belgian beers will show that it has been done and it can be done. The Bruery, being a Belgian inspired experimental brewery has shown this to the case many times. So for them to come up with a recipe that fits that aspect of sour and dessert at the same time, it nothing short of amazing. Unfortunately, when I got this, I had no idea what a Gypsy Tart was. Now that I know, I will have to wait some time as I cannot get anymore bottles of this. It was so damn good!

Anime Corner:
Zone-Tan from the Zone Archive Series was used in this pairing mainly for the color of the labels but also all the dark fruit and dessert flavors I was able to get from this beer. The whole dark fruit, purple yammy, yogurt, pie beer was definitely hitting so much of my taste buds, it was like how Zone tan looks in this picture. So damn attractive and Sexy lil’ pinup woman in a purple sweater. Yes, this was a real dessert.

Sources:
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/comment/full/Zone-tan-Tarakanovich-Anime-Art-Anime-1714070.jpeg

Rexx by Clown Shoes brewing

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barrel Aged Red, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, clown shoes, Clown Shoes Brewing, Four Roses Bourbon, Four Roses Bourbon Barrels, Heaven Hill, Imperial Amber Ale, Imperial Red Ale, passion fruit, Ranma, Ranma 1/2, Rexx | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.65/6

Rexx by Clown Shoes brewing is a 12% ABV Imperial Amber/Red Ale aged in Heaven Hill and Four Roses Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
We like dinosaurs. We especially like Rexx, our prehistoric pal who wears clown shoes, drinks bourbon, and spends his doomed days in exile from the other Tyrannosauruses, choosing to romp with friendlier beasts. Rexx, we dedicate this Imperial Red Ale aged in Heaven Hill and Four Roses bourbon barrels to you buddy.

==Introduction==

Clown Shoes releases another awesome Barrel aged beer. This time, Bourbon Barrel aged red. Granted, the last time a Barrel Aged Red was from Anderson Valley which was pretty good for the low ABV. Now we are dealing with a heavy hitter at 12% ABV. A style that is aged in any type of spirit is always welcome to the site. Especially Clown Shoes stuff which has been for the majority of the time, exceptionally great, just like the Blaecorn Unidragon series and its Beast Variants and more! Now let’s take a trip to the ancient past, to the time of the dinosaurs and study this, Amber Nectar. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich bananas, caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, whiskey, toasted coconut, marshmallows, dark fruit raisins, cherry notes, Rye bread, flowery rose hints, lavender, hibiscus, earthy, citrusy and grapefruit hints, toffee, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate, milk chocolate, rocky road ice cream notes, hazelnut, very mild tropical fruit like prickly pear, passion fruit, papaya and mango notes.

Flavors:
Rich Rye, whiskey, bourbon, floral notes of hibiscus, lavender, rose petals, toffee, rich caramel, plantains, rich bananas, marshmallows, toasted coconut, earthy, citrucy, piney hops, rich grapefuits, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate, milk chocolate, rocky road ice cream notes, caramel, vanilla, oak, tropical fruit like prickly pear, passion fruit, mango notes, dragon fruit, sweetened condensed milk, flan, dark fruit raisins, cherries, cinnamon spice, brown sugar and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:
Rye, earthy notes, grapefruit hops, lots of whiskey, vanilla, toasted coconut, caramel, marshmallows and banana notes are left in the taste. Slight booziness in the taste, crimson full body, smooth, creamy, velvety, mouthfeel, sipping drinkability

Overall:
An exceptionally bourbony, whiskey rye flavored Amber ale. The last time I tried a bourbon barrel amber ale was long ago. Come to think about it, this reminded me of the Bourbon Barrel aged Bock but this is a red so the flavorful hops do come out to play as well. It almost borderlines a certain Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels. The only thing to pick at is the boozeyness. I think with time this one will mature into something incredible. I still highly recommend it as is. Clown Shoes barrel aged beers have been extremely awesome!

Anime Corner:
Ranma Saotome from Ranma ½ was used in this paring to pair with the style of the beer (A Red Ale) but also to pair with the beers sweet flavors and rich complexity which are complemented by Ranma’s sweet and sexy appearance. She is pretty sweet in general but she is also a dangerous martial artists. You see, being the protagonist of the show, Ranma has shown immense strength and power which goes well with the ABV of the beer. Although Ranma can be hot headed at times, she means well which goes with the booziness of the beer. Give her sometime, she will age just right and be good to you. As for th T-Rex in the label, her colors complement it too but like I said before, this T-Rex can be hot headed just like Ranma. Give the T-Rex a beer, calms right down, just like Ranma!

Sources:
http://static.skynetblogs.be/media/37519/ranma5.jpg

Tonnellerie Rue by The Bruery Terreux

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, American Wild Ale, Farmhouse Ale, Ghost in the Shell, Imperial Farmhouse Ale, Motoko Kusinagi, Oak, Oak aged, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Tonnellerie Rue | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Tonnellerie Rue by The Bruery Terreux is an 8.5% ABV American Wild Farmhouse Ale/ Saison aged in oak barrels.

Commercial Description:
Our tonnellerie series is the perfect showcase of what we mean when we say that we make “wildly traditional bière”. Here we have taken our classic Saison Rue recipe, rich with rye malt, and allowed it to ferment spontaneously within extra large oak barrels that previously contained similarly wild beers. After enough time and plenty of wishful thinking, this brand new, earthy, complex, farmhouse ale developed into what was bottled up to enjoy. We find the rustic charm of fermenting a beer in this traditional method is mimicked in the flavor.

==Introduction==

Tonnellerie Rue or The Rue Cooper/Barrel-maker is what the beer name stands for. This beer brew was made for the Reserve and Hoarders society alike to be released August 2015. They released a warning stating that the beer should be in the fridge over 24 hours and poured over a sink as the pressure the yeast has built up is massive. So to prevent beer splatter all over your place or amongst friends, open this one with care over sink. So this one is a saison on oak and I want to see how different this is in comparison to their Saison Tonnellerie. Essentially, I think it is the same saison but with oak barrels and possibly brettanomyces. Let’s find out for sure. Cheers!

Aromas:
citrus, oranges, orange peel, grapefruit, tangerines, brettanomyces, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, Rich stone fruit, peaches, apricot, apples, pears, lemon, peppercorn, lychee fruit, dragon fruit, passion fruit, mango hints, waffle cone, biscuit bread, butterscotch, floral notes like lavender, oak, banana notes, clove spice, and musty grape notes.

Flavors:
Rich stone fruit, peaches, apricot, apples, pears, lychee fruit, dragon fruit, passion fruit, mango hints, brettanomyces, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, citrus, oranges, orange peel, grapefruit, tangerines, lemon, peel, lemon candy, rich oak, pineapple, bubble gum, banana notes, clove spice, vanilla, caramel, musty grape notes, good cheese, waffle cone, biscuit bread, butterscotch, floral notes like lavender, honey, coriander spice and candi sugar.

Aftertaste:
Stone fruits, brettanomyces, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, citrus, oranges, lemon, earthy notes, tropical fruit notes and rich oak. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy Golden full body, creamy, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Wow, a perfect farmhouse ale. It is so damn juicy and bretty. I lost partial amount of it due to the carbonation but it is expected with these bretty oak farmhouse ales. Lots of the sweet delicious flavors of the farmhouse hay, citrus, stone fruits vanilla, oak and much much more. It is one that is one of the best examples of the style and a must try if you can trade for it or if the Bruery sells it to the public.

Anime Corner:
Motoko Kusinagi from Ghost in the Shell was used for this pairing as to pair with the colors of the label but also to represent the fruity flavors and mainly represent a beer that has finished aging and maturing in the barrel. This is represented by her stepping up and getting disconnected from the machine she is on. Like this beer, she is ready to face the world.

Sources:
https://media.8ch.net/w/src/1411870192640-0.jpg

Beer Geek Dessert by Mikkeller brewing

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Beer Geek Dessert, beer geeks, breakfastbeer, chocolate dessert, cocoa, cotton candy, dessert, Dessert in a botle, league of legends, Mikkeller, Oatmeal Stout, Shon, vanilla, VI | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Beer Geek Dessert by Mikkeller brewing is an 11% ABV Oatmeal Stout brewed with Cocoa and Vanilla.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
From the beer geek breakfast series – the beer that really put Mikkeller on the map – we added cocoa and vanilla to the french press coffee trick, creating a whole new dimension to the beer that are loved by freaks and geeks worldwide. It’s dark, dangerous, sweet and incredibly tasty as you would expect, but most of all; it’s ready to conquer your breakfast table routines.

==Introduction==

Mikkeller released a Beer Geek breakfast beer once again. While I have avoided them due to the fact that unless you live by the brewery in Europe, this stuff can get insane and expensive (talking 10$+ for a 12oz bottle) then avoid it altogether especially those on a budget like me. However, I could not get away from this one. The Mikkeller beer called kept calling me back to try this beer. To try it over and over again until I said fuck it! I am going to get this beer Now that I finally have it, I need to see if all the fuss in my mind was definitely worth it and please the beer gods for sure. Let us check it out, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Cotton Candy, Cotton Candy Ice cream, Rich vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, milk shake chocolate, Coffee, mocha, rocky road ice cream, rainbow sprinkles, maple, candi sugar, roasted coffee grounds, earthy hop notes, rich doughnuts, flan, Danish cream, Irish cream, oreo cookies, sweetened condensed milk, Chocolate Cherry cordials, candi sugar, rock candy, marzipan dark fruit cherries, currants, blackberries, oatmeal cookies, lactose milk sugar, pecan pie and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich Cotton Candy, Cotton Candy Ice cream, Rich vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, milk shake chocolate, Coffee, mocha, roasted coffee grounds, earthy hop notes, rich doughnuts, flan, dark fruit cherries, currants, blackberries, oatmeal cookies, lactose milk sugar, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, rocky road ice cream, rainbow sprinkles, maple, candi sugar, Turkish Delights (the way I imagined them in my head), Danish cream, Irish cream, oreo cookies, sweetened condensed milk, Chocolate Cherry cordials, candi sugar, rock candy, marzipan and chocolate mousse.

Aftertaste:
Roasted coffee grounds, rich marshmallow, cotton candy ice cream, doughnuts, sprinkles
No alcohol in the taste despite the high ABV, Sipping drinkability, pitch black dark full body, and finally smooth, syrupy, creamy, luscious and velvety mouth feel.

Overall:
Holy Cotton Candy Batman! This is a different type of dessert altogether. I have no idea what kind of cocoa or vanilla they are using in this beer but damn, It truly is a major major dessert pointing in the Cotton candy and chocolate direction. As hard as it was to describe what type of sweetness it was at first, this beer for being so small packs so much variety of flavor that is hard to mimic. I have not tried anything like this even if they use cocoa and vanilla there has got to be some deeper magic and sorcery among this! Don’t believe me? Get a damn bottle and try it yourself. Makes me want to try the other beer geek series aside from the cognac kopi luwak I had years ago. If I could have this for breakfast every day, well, that is wishful thinking. Now to the drawing board in trying to make something like this is going to be difficult but fun.

Anime Corner:
VI from League of Legends and original desserts character by Shon was used in this beer heavily due to the colors and the variety of sweets and dessert and flavors this beer brings to the table. You can tell a lot of the items pair and while I may not know much about either of these characters, I felt visually it was a damn perfect fit.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/98/77/57/987757f3f62a3461d9f4ee0b7a2edd8e.jpg
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/418139-1406×1938-original-shon-single-tall+image-blush-blue+eyes.jpg

Collaboration Series: Souren, a collaboration with The Bruery Terreux and 8 Wired brewing

September 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 8 Wired, American Wild Ale, belgian golden ale, Collaboration Beer, Kill-LA-Kill, Nani Sore, New Zealand beer, Nonon Jakuzure, Pinot Noir, Pinot noir Grapes, Søren, sour, Souren, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Collaboration Series: Souren, a collaboration with The Bruery Terreux and 8 Wired brewing is a 9.9% ABV Sour Belgian Golden with Pinot Noir Grapes.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Souren is named for our pal Søren who runs the show down in the far-off land of New Zealand at 8 Wired Brewery. Taking the long way home after a trip to the States, Søren and his team stopped off in Placentia for a day of brewing, and we created a very California-style sour beer together. Starting with a Belgian-style golden ale base, Pinot Noir grapes were added and the beer was sent to rest in barrels at Bruery Terreux. Over the year, the complexities grew and this grapey, funky, spicy beer was born. Half Kiwi, half American, this one has a rather handsome accent.

==Introduction==

Released by the Bruery Terreux for the Reserve Society members in August 2015 after they opened their new Sour Facility. This beer is in collaboration with 8 wired which I have not tried their stuff yet but I might give them a shot now that I know of them. So this sour is supposed to cross into the realm of the wine level or so the pinot noir grapes indicate this. Sour have a special place when it comes to the wine world as some of the flavors might complimentary. It is just a thought but if not, lets just continue and give this one a shot, Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich wine grapes, funky musty grapes, Stone fruit, apricots, peaches, apples, mango hints, strawberries, dark fruit cherries, plums, prune hints, tart berries, black berry, dragon fruit, passion fruit, Tart pineapple, oak, hibiscus flowers, lavender, peppercorns and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Concorde grapes, pinot grapes, wine grapes, white grapes, champagne, Stone fruit, apricots, apples, mango hints, strawberries, vanilla, toffee, lemon peel, orange peels, prickly pears, grapefruit peel, peppercorn, funky notes, farmhouse hay, dark fruit cherries, plums, prune hints, tart berries, black berry yogurt hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, Tart pineapple, oak, hibiscus flowers, lavender and white sage spice.

Aftertaste:
Tart grapes, Tart Apricots, Tart Strawberries, yogurt notes, lemon, citrus, earthy funk notes, hay hints and mild tropical fruit hints. No alcohol in the taste, Honey Golden clear light body, moderate mouthfeel, crisp, moderate drinkability,

Overall:
A very good sour! Seems like the Bruery has really been working to step up their sour expertise. I found this pleasantly wonderful with a great balance of tart fruits and sour funkiness. I am not sure how much the 9.9% ABV helps to keep stuff in check but it seems to be working because everything is pretty balanced. For those that do not like sour, this maybe a gate way into them as you will take a liking to its sweetness and then pulled in to the sour Nirvana. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Nonon Jakuzure from Kill La Kill has made her way into her first appearance in a Bruery review. I chose her for this beer mainly due to her infamous Japanese phrase “Nani Sore!” Which you maybe able to tell it is close to the name of the beer. That and the fact that this beers balance is on the tart fruity and the sour funk. Nonon is the type of character that is sweet looking and hot on the outside like the sweet fruit flavors of the beer but damn, she can be rude, obnoxious and in some for rotten to the core which coincide with the sour funkiness. However, it is not to say she is a bad girl by any means as she is a supporting character to the protagonist’s sister (Ryuko’s sister Satsuki). So because the beer so delicious and balanced, she works out for this beer. Not to mention, her pink colors contrast that of the rich berries and grapes.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/gbCVK8O.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/30/10/0a/30100aa481834244b50227e9188bd5a2.jpg

Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore)

Monthly Archives: September 2015

Black Butte XXVII (27th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery

Doppel Sticky by Lagunitas brewing

Stone Cali-Belgique aged in Reposado Tequila Barrels by Stone Brewing

Rainbow Triplin’ by Stone brewing

Collaboration Series: Confession collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard

Prairie Rue collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Prairie Artisan Ales

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery

The Remix Project Series, Rio De Sauvin collaboration by Stillwater Artisanal and Against The Grain

Ride That Goat (AKA Bokkenrijder) by The Bruery

2015 Batch No.1 Levud’s by The Bruery

Endless Nameless by Cigar City

Pumpkin Spice Milk Stout by Belching Beaver

Stochasticity Project Your Father Smelt Of Elderberries by Stone brewing

Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing

Decadence 2015 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith

The Devil is People by Stillwater Artisanal

Mangö by Clown Shoes

Sunrise Prayer Saison by Avila Ales

Tropical Day Dream Pale Ale by Avila Ales

Delicious IPA by Stone Brewing

The Arbre Series: Light Toast, Medium Toast and Alligator Char by The Bruery (Triple Review)

Gypsy Tart by The Bruery Terreux

Rexx by Clown Shoes brewing

Tonnellerie Rue by The Bruery Terreux

Beer Geek Dessert by Mikkeller brewing

Collaboration Series: Souren, a collaboration with The Bruery Terreux and 8 Wired brewing