Moses and the Misfits (a.k.a Whammy Bar) by Clown Shoes brewing

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, cacao nibs, clown shoes, Clown Shoes Brewing, cream ale, Evangelion, Moses and the Misfits, Neon Genesis Evangelion, vanilla, vanilla beans, Whammy Bar | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.95/5

Moses and the Misfits (a.k.a Whammy Bar) by Clown Shoes brewing is a 9.1% ABV Imperial Cream Ale brewed with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla beans.

Label:
Soulful tunes and great beer touch the best part of us here at Clown Shoes. Moses and the Misfits is an Imperial Cream Ale with cacao nibs and vanilla beans added for a unique contrast in flavor, and it was brewed in celebration of our 6th anniversary. We encourage those who drink this beer to tune into the music they love most and join the misfits of the Clown Shoes brigade.

==Introduction==

It is once again, the anniversary of an awesome brewing company. Clown Shoes celebrated their 6th anniversary in December and to kick off stuff, they released a cream ale with chocolate and vanilla. Last year they had the Quadruple ale which was an awesome feat. While this is not a barrel aged beer, I am sure it is not too far from awesome. Or at least I would like to assume given the fact that I have yet to have a bad beer from Clown Shoes. So with the addition of chocolate and vanilla, I am hoping for a much richer cream ale than its base may hint to be. Let’s see what this is about.

Aromas:
Tropical fruits like pineapple notes, passion fruit, dragon fruit, citrus, floral, and grapefruit hops, Irish cream, graham crackers, cherry hints, white raisin hints, white chocolate, caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, banana cream, marshmallows, crème brulee and waffle cone.

Flavors:
Vanilla, Chocolate notes, white chocolate hints, tropical fruit like passion fruit, dragon fruit, kiwi, pineapple, citrus, floral, and grapefruit hops, waffle cone, marshmallows, pilsner grain, white grapes, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, Irish cream, graham crackers, cherry hints, white raisin hints, rye bread, biscuit bread, peanut butter hints, pecans and banana cream pie.

Aftertaste:
Finishes mildy dry with graham crackers, vanilla, white chocolate hints, caramel and grassy hops.
No alcohol in the aftertaste, Golden medium to full body, creamy, crisp, refreshing and smooth mothfeel.

Overall:
A very delicious cream ale ranging from different sweet flavors. While not the biggest complex thing I the world, the flavors it did have were varying and delicious. One of the best cream ales I have had in a while. It is out there for a limited amount of time so I think if you love cream ales, this is a hefty and delicious one.

Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley Shikinami Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion was used in this pairing to represent all the characters wailing on the guitars. Her colors represent the colors of the beer, nice gold but also the red and brown from the cacao nibs and vanilla all the way to the theme of Moses in which it pairs with the Evangelion series being about Angels and Heaven and Demons. All in all awesome.

Sources:
http://konachan.com/sample/27862827785381547defb325adca7ae8/Konachan.com%20-%20103991%20sample.jpg

Gulden Draak The Brewmaster’s Edition by Brouwerij Van Steengerge

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Blackbird, Brouwerij Van Steengerge, Carciphona, Gulden Draak, Gulden Draak The Brewmaster's Edition, Shilin, Veloce, whiskey barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/6

Gulden Draak The Brewmaster’s Edition by Brouwerij Van Steengerge is a 10.5% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale aged in Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
Our brewmaster, Jef Versele, crafted this exclusive Gulden Draak Brewmasters Edition as a tribute to his grandfather Jozef Van Steenberge and the 230th birthday of the brewery. His inspiration came from his numerous trips to the United States and his deepest respect for the craft beer culture. This exclusive Gulden Draak combines the technology and the craftsmenship of the traditional brewing process. By letting the beer mature on whiskey barrels it gives it a distinctive and gentle finish that you have never tasted before.

==Introduction==

Obtained this at the local Bevmo as I was intrigued when I saw a video review of it. I also wanted to try it as it was made aging in whiskey barrels. There is this crazy mysticism when doing this process especially when you do with an already mystic style such as the Belgian Strongs and Quads. These to me are already some of the best beers in the world. So with that being said, I could not pass up the opportunity for this one. At the price of about $18 to $21 you gotta wonder. Even so, I have not gone wrong with some of the other Belgian Strongs or Quads before like the Straff Hendrik 2011 Belgian Quad II that was aged in Bourbon barrels and came in a crazy crate that was delivered by an old woman in a cloak telling stories of magic and the unknown. (All is true except for the old lady… magic is true though… magic rules!) Anyways, let’s see if the beer is worth you hard earned cash. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich honey, waffle cone, Belgian Candi sugar, Bananas, clove spice, bubble gum, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, pears, apples, mango hints, waffle cone, marshmallow, toffee, biscuit bread, Rock candy, apple pie, pecan pie hints, hints of Whiskey, vanilla, oak, brown sugar and crème brulee.

Flavors:
Stone fruit peaches, apricots, pears, apples, mango hints, dark fruit plums, figs, dates, white grapes, pineapple hints, hints of Whiskey, vanilla, oak, bourbon, waffle cone, marshmallow, bubblegum, bananas, clove spice, toffee, biscuit bread, Rock candy, Belgian Candi sugar, apple pie, pecan pie hints, butterscotch, tangerine preserves, floral hop notes, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, honey, piloncillo sugar cone and brown sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich candi sugar notes, bubble gum, peppercorn, bananas, clovey notes, waffle cone, vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, rich golden honey full body, smooth, silky, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn!! Now that’s a good Belgian. Yes, the whiskey aspect is subtle indeed, but over all a well made Belgian Golden Strong as it is more of a Golden strong than a dark strong. I think if you like Belgians, you can definitely pass this one up if the price is too much. You can get other delicious Belgians for less. Now if you want your money worth, look for the 2011 Straffe Hendrick Bourbon Barrel Aged Quad or even the Apple Brandy Oak Barrel Aged St. Bernardus 12!

Anime Corner:
Blackbird vs Veloce from Carciphona by Shilin (Ashen-Ray.com) were used in this pairing to represent the dynamic meeting of the Whiskey Barrels as it meets the mighty Belgian Strong Ale. The colors work so well with the label and the aspect of the golden dragon. The red colors represent the darkness of the whiskey barrels. The overall gold background goes well with the colors of the beer but also the golden label.

Sources:
http://orig08.deviantart.net/601d/f/2011/318/7/7/carciphona___duel_by_shilin-d4g7rtn.jpg

2015 Oude Tart with Boysenberries by the Bruery Terreux

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Blake Belladona, Boysenberries, Flemish Red Brown Ale, Oak aged, Oude Tart, Oude Tart with Boysenberries, Rwby, The Bruery Terreux, Yang Xiao Long | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2015 Oude Tart with Boysenberries by the Bruery Terreux is an 8.3% ABV Flemish Red Ale aged in Oak barrels with boysenberries.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Oude Tart is a Flemish-Style Red Ale aged in red wine barrels for up to 18 months. This version has had boysenberries added for the final stages of barrel-aging. In fact, there are over two gallons of boysenberry purée per barrel. The final compilation is pleasantly sour with hints of leather, dark fruit, tart boysenberries and toasty oak. While the Flemish-style red ale is one of the more classic beer styles that we make, it’s not a style that you can find too often in the United States. Originating in style from the Flanders region of Belgium, near the French border, this dark, sour ale has roots deep in brewing history and predates most of the ales that have become popular in contemporary culture. We’re doing our best to keep the tradition alive by brewing and aging this beer here on the west coast.

==Introduction==

Another brew that was part of the December released for the Bruery Preservation society was this one. A variant of the Oude Tart with Boysenberries. I have tried the one with cherries and it was damn phenomenal. Now with Boysenberries, I am hoping this one is just as awesome. Many of their sours are good especially when doing fruit variants. While Jolly Pumpkin sours have always been my favorites, the Bruery has surprised me with some of their sours as they are able to find a nice balance at times so it is not supremely sour. Let’s see how this one is. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit currants, raisins, boysenberries, blueberries, raspberries, Concorde grape skins, vanilla, caramel, toffee, rye bread, lemon peels, hibiscus, hazelnut hints, brown sugar, pecan pie, Danish hints, wine grapes, port wine, tobacco, blackberry yogurt, boysenberry preserves, leather hints, molasses and oak.

Flavors:
Rich tart Concorde grape skins, vanilla, caramel, toffee, rye bread, lemon peel, hibiscus flowers, Dark fruit currants, raisins, boysenberries, blueberries, raspberries, Leather, oak, molasses, earthy notes, Danish hints, wine grapes, port wine, tobacco, blackberry yogurt, boysenberry preserves, cheese cake notes, pecan pie, brown sugar and hazel nut notes.

Aftertaste:
Super dry finishing with dry notes of wine, earthy notes, dark fruit boysenberries, dark cherries, oak, and musty notes No alcohol in the taste, full rich crimson and magenta body with a creamy, effervescent and medium mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Just like the Oude Tart Cherries, I was amazed by this one. A nice variant to the original show casing other complex flavors that come from using the different fruit. I think that is the best thing about variants and using different ingredients, the change of ingredients enables other complex flavors to come to being. With that being said, if you are a fan of sours or Oude Tart in general, you maye want to grab this one or trade.

Anime Corner:
Yang Xiao Long and Blake Belladonna from RWBY were used in this pairing as I have used Yang for the original Oude Tart so since her friends compose of different colors that I think would pair with the variant, I chose Blake as the boysenberry variant. This is since boysenberries are dark and purple, similar to black berries. I have used Ruby Rose when they used the Cherries, so depending on what is next, I have more characters to pair.

Sources:
http://orig11.deviantart.net/b52d/f/2014/044/9/a/9a82b1f04bd29690ca3325b6ab20388a-d769v9r.png
http://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.roosterteeth.com/uploads/images/fb561c24-2cf9-4026-b748-d793cf2e541e/original/2027241-1442774116514-image.jpg

2016 Preservation Series Humulus Triple by The Bruery

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Humulus Triple, IPL, One Punch Man, Preservation Series, Tatsumaki, The Bruery, Tornado, Triple India Pale Lager | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

2016 Preservation Series Humulus Triple by The Bruery is a 10% ABV Triple India Pale Lager.

Label:
Forget what you’ve heard about West Coast vs. East Coast. This is a hoppy beer on our terms and turf. Humulus TrIPLe is the most hop-forward beer to come out of The Bruery, with a citrus-laden aromatic hop bouquet that can be detected half a foot away. The mouthfeel is massive, showcasing fruity, resinous and dank hop flavors and a not-so-bitter end. Ideally served at 50oF (7oC) in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one in December from the Bruery Preservation Society. I think this is the Bruery’s first attempt at an actual IPL, especially a strong one. I have had many Belgian Pale Ales from them but they typically never make IPAs or IPLs as far as I know. Either way, going as far as making this a Triple IPL, which is unheard of either. If this does taste closer to an IPL or IPA instead of a Belgian Pale or Belgian IPA, then this would be not only the strongest one brewed but also their first. Let’s see if this one is worth getting, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, cane sugar, slight grapefruit notes, lemon peel, pepper corns, lemon candy tangerines, floral notes, honey, pilsner biscuit bread, grassy, citrus , herbal, piney, dank and garlicky hops, sweetened condensed milk hints, honey suckle, toasted grains and tropical fruits like and honey dew melon, kiwis, papaya and cherry notes.

Flavors:
Rich grassy, citrus , herbal, piney, dank and garlicky hops, honey, pilsnery biscuit bread, tropical fruits like honey dew melon, kiwis, papaya, cherry notes, peppercorn, stone fruit peaches, cane sugar, slight grapefruit notes, lemon peel, lemon candy tangerines, floral notes like lavender, sugar cane, gummy bears, Danish cream, Sweetened condensed milk hints, honey suckle and toasted grains,

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some stone fruit notes, peppercorn, dank hops and mild tropical fruits linger. Slight booziness in the taste, clear straw and golden boy, crisp, rich, refreshing and creamy mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good lager and probably the strongest I’ve ever had. The Bruery really did a good job on this one and while the hops rule in this brew, I think since it is made possibly with their house lager strain, it does taste a bit Belgian-ish. Which is very welcome to me in my opinion but many hop purist may be swayed or intrigued by this. It doesn’t matter, do as I say and try to find this!

Anime Corner:
Tatsumaki/Tornado from One Punch Man was used in this pairing as she pairs well with the colors of the label and the hops used in this beer. Her strength is complemented by the high ABV, especially for being a lager which are usually light, light meaning small like her stature. Don’t mess with the short and powerful. The telekinesis? Oh well you see, this beer is mind blowing, just like her.

Sources:
http://orig02.deviantart.net/62ac/f/2015/350/a/9/tatsumaki_by_speeh-d9kdrf0.jpg
http://41.media.tumblr.com/6a1ad71c1ec6b927ea7c4c8b246a34de/tumblr_nzk9j5nZOU1qla6e4o1_1280.jpg

2015 Barrel Aged Series Yeti Imperial Stout by Great Divide

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Barrel Aged Series, Barrel Aged Yeti, Bleach, Chimpett, Great Divide, Saru, Whiskey, whiskey barrels, Yeti Imperial Stout, Zabimaru, Zanpakutou | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 Barrel Aged Series Yeti Imperial Stout by Great Divide is a 12.5 % ABV Imperial Stout aged in Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
This unique version of Yeti Imperial Stout is aged for at least twelve months in Whiskey barrels. The spirited aging process produces a hugely complex but mellowed Yeti, with its signature roasted flavors, hints of vanilla, oak and a whiskeyed finish. Who says you can’t tame a beast?

Suggested Food Pairings:
Grilled Porterhouse Steak, Valdeon Blue, Vanilla Cheesecake, brownies

==Introduction==

The Yeti is back! This time in a Whiskey Barrel aged form. I have enjoyed the many variants of the Yeti to date. Ever since the released of the Chocolate Oak Yeti, it was a no brainer to seek them out all the time. The original yeti was such a well-made stout that it reminded me of the many silky smooth stouts I have had in the past. Therefore, getting this special release to the site was a must. This should be distributed wherever they sell Great Divide beers but you can also get this one online. Now, before the sighting of the yeti disappears, let’s see what this is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Bourbon, whiskey, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, plums, black currants, cherries, Bakers Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Dark chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Fudge chocolate, Soy sauce notes, plum sauce notes, oak, molasses, hazelnut nectar, Irish cream coffee, cinnamon, anise, maple, marshmallows, graham cracker chocolate smores smokey hints, vanilla, toffee, pecan pie, brownie batter, bacon hints, Mexican Custard/Jericalla and rocky road ice cream

Flavors:
Rich Bakers Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Dark chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Fudge chocolate, Molasses, Soy sauce notes, plum sauce notes, oak, bourbon, whiskey, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, plums, black currants, cherries, flan, dulce de leche caramel, campfire roasted marshmallows, graham cracker chocolate smores smokey hints, vanilla, toffee, pecan pie, brownie batter, chocolate cherry cake, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, bacon hints, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, beachwood oak, hazelnut nectar, Irish cream coffee, cinnamon, anise and maple syrup.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with roasty notes, molassses, whiskey, oak, vanilla, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, earthy notes, fudge and dark fruit hints. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavor, pitch black body, smooth, creamy, velvety and syrupy body with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Supreme Yeti of Yetis! This was one of the best opportunities to see how a perfect Imperial Stout can go beyond its original base of flavors into something more complex. A boss mode if you will. With so much going on, even if the whiskey is noticeable a bit, I think this can be enjoyed now but will get way way better over time. So get one for now and save another one for later. Highly recommended!

Anime Corner:
Chimpett/Saru and Hebi which compose Zanpakutou Zabimaru from Bleach were used in this beer to represent the Yeti. I really liked how well it pairs especially the silhouette one as well and the label.

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/ea4b/i/2010/168/9/4/something_diffrent____very____by_tiiara.jpg
http://img13.deviantart.net/4760/i/2015/233/1/7/saru_and_hebi_by_findmytaco-d96mljk.jpg
http://orig02.deviantart.net/9705/f/2010/167/8/1/guess_who_i_am_10_____by_tiiara.jpg

Amber Smashed Face Colaboration by Cannibal Corpse and Three Floyds

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 3 Floyds, Amber Ale, Amber Smashed Face, Cannibal Corpse, collaboration, Hellsing, Red Ale, Seras Victoria, Three Floyds Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Amber Smashed Face Colaboration by Cannibal Corpse and Three Floyds is a 6.66% ABV American Amber/Red Ale.

Label:
An aggressively hopped American Amber Ale sure to crush your skill and liquify your brain

==Introduction==

My friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com struck gold when he was able to find this one online. Thankfully, he got one for his site and was able to get me one as well for mine. While Metal is awesome! It is even more awesome when I get a chance to write about it on my anime beer site. While Anime is the primary for it, I definitely enjoy adding some Metal to it from time to time like I did with Iron Maiden Trooper for example. I have been seeing many breweries collaborate with different bands and I think the more they do is the more craft beer will get involved and do collaborations with other mediums of entertainment or even other topics and categories. So enough said, let’s get this bloody beer on the glass, cheers!

Aromas:
Very nice tropical fruit aromas like kiwis, mango, papaya, passion fruit hints, dragon fruit, kumquats, guava, pineapple, grapefruit, herbal, piney, citrus, floral, garlicky and dank hops, stone fruit peaches, apricots, honey, lemon peels, brown sugar and berries.

Flavors:
Grapefruit, herbal, piney, citrus, floral, garlicky and dank hops, Caramel, grapes, biscuit bread, raspberries, cherries, tootsie roll cherries, rye bread, tangerines, tropical fruit, kiwis, mango, papaya, passion fruit hints, dragon fruit, guava, pineapple, stone fruit peaches, apricots, honey, lemon peels, graham cracker hints, kumquat gummy bears and Danish cream hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a delicious amount of tropical fruit, honey, biscuit bread, caramel, vanilla and super dank bitter hops. No alcohol in the taste. Honey crimson hazy to light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good Amber that really crosses more into IPA territory. The hops let the beer be more on the tropical fruit side more than the malty side and yet somehow other fruit flavors come from it. The best part too is that it is very drinkable and the ABV, well, it is evil. An amber that is well done by the monsters at Three Floyds and one that I am sure many will want to get as it is a true metal beer!

Anime Corner:
Seras Victoria from Hellsing was used in this pairing to go with the whole aspect of zombies, horror and guts! While Hellsing is all about the undead, I found some great pictures that not only go with the label but also the name of the beer and the Smashed face. In these scenes you can definitely tell, Seras is not joke smashing faces but as payback for her friend getting killed. Crazy artwork for a crazy beer!

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/162942-1920×1200-hellsing-victoria+seras-pip+bernadotte-long+hair-highres-wide+image.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Seras.Victoria.full.767051.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/HELLSING.full.415766.jpg

Persius’ Spiraling Lament by Nubis Sanctum Ales

January 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged cream ale, Home brewing, Medusa, Medusa Hops, Nia Teppelin, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Persius, Persius' Spiraling Lament, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Persius’ Spiraling Lament by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 5.78% ABV Cream Ale Brewed with Calypso and Medusa Hops.

==Introduction==

Homebrew‬ Project #12
Yes, that’s correct! Medusa hops! The type of hops that are not available in the market and have yet to be brewed commercially. There are many perks to the hops as they seem to be not typically for west coast styles but mainly giving aromas and flavors like guava, melon, apricot and citrus fruit. Seemed like a win-win here especially when I bought the ingredients for the recipe. This is my first attempt at a cream ale and while it may be light, I hope it is not far from delicious. Cheers

Aromas:
Tropical fruit hints kiwi, strawberries, blueberry hints, dragon fruit, guava, papaya, Citrus, grapefruit, piney and herbal hops, cane sugar, vanilla hints, pilsner grains, Stone fruit hints of peach, apricot, apples and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Citrus, orange peels, grapefruit, piney, herbal, grassy hops, tropical fruit kiwi, strawberries, blueberry hints, dragon fruit, rich guava fruit, papaya, rainbow sherbet, raspberries, cherries, Rich Stone fruit apricots, peaches, peach cobbler, Danish cream, caramel, vanilla, pilsner malt grains, biscuit bread and cane sugar notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some nice tropical and stone fruit notes, citrus orange, herbal and grapefruit hop at the end. No alcohol in the taste. Golden Honey colored hazy to full body, creamy, smooth, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very good cream ale. I really enjoyed this one mainly since I never had the medusa hops before but it made for such a delicious beer. The cream side of the brew balanced out the hops well to release more of the fruitiness that the hops carried. So far, I think it was well worth the brew and will definitely brew it again if I can get the hops again.

Anime Corner:
Nia Teppelin from Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagan was used in this pairing because I wanted to find something that would pair with not only the color of hops but also Medusa herself. In this pairing, Nia I fit the best since she has the crazy spiraling long hair which could be said is like Medusa’s Snake hair. The reason it is called Persius Spiraling Lament is because Persius was the one that took down Medusa according to the mythological story of Medusa. In my story though (well what I invented for the beer) Persius had regretted killing off Medusa and turning her to Stone. The face Nia makes in the drawing shows the regret as reflected to Persius. Funny how it was the Mirror that turned Medusa to Stone…

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Nia.Teppelin.full.1376313.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/full/331783

Six Suits A-Hangin’ by Karl Strauss

January 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Brown Ale, French Oak, Imperial Brown Ale, Jigoku no Fubuki, Karl Strauss, Oak aged, One Punch Man, Six Suits A-Hangin' | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Six Suits A-Hangin’ by Karl Strauss is an 8.5% ABV Imperial Belgian Brown aged on French Oak.

Label:
Winter in San Diego means surfers break out their fullsuits. And while you may not find many stockings hung by the chimney with care, you’re sure to see those wetsuits hung out to dry on plenty of balconies across the county. Six Suits A-Hangin’ is the 6th installment in our “Twelve Days” holiday series. This Imperial Belgian-style brown ale is brewed with caramel and brown malts for rich flavors of graham crackers, roasted nuts, and peppery Belgian spice. Aging on French oak adds a hint of vanilla. As for the finish? It’ll warm you from your head to your frozen toes.

==Introduction==

The 6th release if the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego is now available in time for the Holidays. Similar to the Bruery, the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego is Karl Strauss take on the song but with gifts in relation to San Diego. This one was released for a limited time for the holidays and may go quick. While I have tried a good amount of them, I have yet to try the 2nd (Two Tortugas) one which is the quad and one of my favorite styles. This year, they bring a Belgian Brown. It has been a while since I tried the Belgian brown style, not in sour form ofcourse. So seeing as this is Karl Strauss first (I’m assuming) Belgian Brown, let’s see what it has to offer.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, sugar plums, figgy pudding, fruit cake, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peppercorn, bananas, clove spice, pecan pie, apple pie, caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, milk chocolate, Tamarind, Candi Sugar, Rock Candy, Oak, crème brulee, flan, Danish cream cookies, brown sugar, ginger bread cookies and capirotada raisins bread.

Flavors:
Rich Caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, milk chocolate, Tamarind, Candi Sugar, Rock Candy, Oak, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, sugar plums, figgy pudding, fruit cake, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peppercorn, bananas, clove spice, pecan pie, apple pie, piloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar, ginger bread cookies, capirotada raisins bread, port wine notes, cinnamon toast crunch rye bread, crème brulee, flan notes, strawberry jam on shortbread cookies, Danish cream cookies and sweet potato hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lots of dark fruit, caramel, candy sugar, fruit cake, vanilla, stone fruits, chocolate hints and spicy Christmas notes like cookies. No alcohol in the taste. Honey dark brown clear to hazy body. Creamy, smooth, slightly syrupy mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally delicious. This one came from left field but at the same time, I was well pleased with this one. A Belgian brown ale that is super complex and fits right in with the while “Christmas Ale” theme. I am trying to figure out how a brown relates to suits but that does not matter. What you should really know is, this one is worth the take. I would say, take a couple!

Anime Corner:
Jigoku no Fubuki from One Punch Man was used in this pairing as I was trying to get a picture of people with suits but also a leader representing the overall theme. Jigoku seemed to fit the bill here. While I do not know much about Jigoku yet as she has not made much of an appearance in the anime, I am sure she will have something to do with Saitama, the main protagonist. Either way, this was a nice pairing a I felt.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/One.Punch.Man.full.1683518.jpg

The Commodore by Ballast Point

January 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ballast Point, Dry Stout, The Commodore | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

The Commodore by Ballast Point is a 6.5% ABV American Dry Stout.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION:
American Stout. Black in color with roasted flavor and noticeable hop bitterness.

==Introduction==

It has been a long time since tried a beer from Ballast Point and brought it to the site. Aside from their main Imperial Stout and Vanilla Coffee Porter, there really hasn’t been a regular stout from them before or at least that I can remember in bottle form. So after picking this one up, I wanted to bring this for a rolling review and see who good the brew is. This is a common beer and you may find it at local shops where they sell Ballast Point or even online. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, earthy hops, caramel, toffee, vanilla, molasses, dark fruit cherry, anise and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Coffee, Dark chocolate, earthy hop notes, brown sugar, caramel, toffee, roasted malts, vanilla, molasses, anise hints, dark fruit cherry, chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal hints and marshmallow hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with some roasty malt hints, earthy hops, chocolate, vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, super dark full body, creamy, smooth and dry mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A pretty good and decent stout. It is not too complex but just right. Maybe enough for those that may not like stouts to give this one a try. I for one think it is something you would choose if there really is nothing else around that is craft related.

Anime Corner:
Original Pirate girl by Einlee of deviantart.com was used to represent the pirate captain in the label I tried to get it as close as the label too with the colors which you can also say compliment the artwork and the flavors a like.

Sources:
http://orig01.deviantart.net/c4cb/f/2015/130/2/7/pirate_bones_by_einlee-d8sut7q.jpg

Nocturnal Nectar by Freetail brewing

January 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Agave Nectar Ale, Darkstalkers, Flaked Corn, Freetail Brewing, Golden Ale, Lilith Aensland, Nocturnal Nectar, Papaya | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Nocturnal Nectar by Freetail brewing is a 6.8% ABV Golden ale brewed with Agave, Flaked corn, and papaya.

Label:
Free your mind & your tail will follow

Look up to the Texas night sky & raise a glass to our bats! Yes bats, they helped to bring you this beer, through pollination, seed dispersal and pest control of three of its ingredients: agave, flaked corn, and papaya.

Bats help bring many of our everyday foods to the table including rice, coffee, sugar, numerous fruits and nuts, not to mention some of the most important of our Halloween treats.

Bats are out unseen gardeners, with foods from around the world relying on these nocturnal creatures.
==Introduction==

I received this special brew from my friend Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.com. This brew was made for a good cause. Brews like these I feel is a great way for craft beer to give back to the community. Definitely giving back to is a good way to establish once self not by the beer that they sell but by the good they do for society. I feel like the big guys like inBev just mainly spend on selling a product than making good beer and giving back to the community. That is an argument for another time. Anyways, let’s take a look at this delicious Batty brew.

Aromas:
Honey, wafflecone, honey comb, tropical fruit papaya, raspberries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, banana, clove spice, candi sugar, bubblegum, pilsner malt, grassy, herbal and floral hops, mescal hints, cane sugar and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Bananas, agave nectar, lechugilla agave juice, honey, wafflecone, honey comb, tropical fruit papaya, raspberries, dragon fruit, passion fruit hints, grapes, biscuit bread, cane sugar, grassy, herbal and floral hops, hibiscus, candy sugar, peppercorn notes, mezcal hints and green tea,

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with hints of tropical fruits, floral notes, honey, agave hints, hoppy notes and cereal graininess. No alcohol in the taste, golden light to hazy body, crisp, clean, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very good brew showcasing so many delicious tropical fruit flavors and still remaining crisp, clean and very drink like a nice pilsner. The combination of the fruits are really present despite this being somewhat lightish of a brew. Something people can dig especially if your purchase goes to a good cause. Today bats, tomorrow, purple sea stars and next, save the Whalez!

Anime Corner:
Lilith Aensland from Darkstalkers was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair mainly with the theme of bats and extracting nectar. In this artwork, she is surrounded by flowers just like the bat is on the label. That along with some of the fruits in the beer that present themselves in the various colors of the art piece. This is a very rich nectar.

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2013-05-06-577426.jpeg

Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter by (512) brewing

January 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged (512) brewing, american whiskey, Cinder Fall, Imperial Porter, Oak aged, pecans, Rwby, Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter, whiskey barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter by (512) brewing is a 9.5% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with pecans and aged in oak Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
Who is (512)?
(512) Brewing Company is a microbrewery located in the heart of Austin using as many local, domestic and organic ingredients as possible. Although we’re primarily focused on draftbeer, we occasionally share some of our special creations in bottles with our friends around the state.

What’s Inside?
(512) Double Pecan Porter is a robust porter accented by organic Texas-grown roasted pecans and subtly enhanced by aging in recently emptied oak whiskey barrels for two months. Notes of chocolate, coffee and pecan marry with the subtle flavors of vanilla and whiskey to make this a wonderful warmer worth sharing and savoring. In this sixth ever bottling 500 cases were bottled. We sincerely hope you enjoy every sip.

==Introduction==

Double Pecan Porter sounds like the best thing in the world! I was really intrigued when my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com sent me this one. So far, many of the brews I try from 512 are very good. This one is a new style I try from (512) and a bourbon barrel aged brew at that. I always enjoy trying bourbon barrel aged brews. There is always room for new brews to exceed my expectations. Very few do but when there are those that don’t, it may not be worth it. Today, I have my hopes up for this one. A possible Pecan pie and chocolate beer? Bring it on!

Aromas:
Pecan pie, almond milk, almond joy chocolate, marshmallow hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, flan notes, blueberry tart cheesecake, rich oak, bourbon, whiskey, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, raspberries, tobacco, walnuts, pralines, hazelnut nectar, molasses, chocolate smores, banana notes, coffee cake and Khalua notes.

Flavors:
Rich oak, bourbon, whiskey, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, raspberries, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, flan notes, blueberry tart cheesecake, blueberry yogurt notes, pecan pie, almond milk, almond joy chocolate, marshmallow hints, walnuts, pralines, hazelnut nectar, molasses, chocolate smores, banana notes, coffee cake, Kahlua notes, earthy notes, smokey notes, leather, tobacco, toasted rye bread with blackberry jelly, brown sugar, wine grapes and port wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some nice oak, bourbon, tart hints of dark fruit berries, yogurt hints and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste, crimson head with a pitch black dark body, silky, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptional brew but while I do think the brew maybe on the tart side, this addition to it makes more complex. It is more of a bourbon barrel aged sour blend than a pure malty bourbon brew. I have experienced something similar to this with the Oakshire Hellshire II and to be honest, this type of souring is quite welcome in my opinion. I think those that enjoy sours will take advantage of what this brew has to offer as it is not like other brews.

Anime Corner:
Cinder Fall from RWBY is the main antagonist of the series The reason I used her in this brew was because of the colors or the fall like red and brown for the pecans. She holds a hidden strength of fire and is also evil coinciding with the brew’s sour yet sweet complexity. The ABV is elusive in the taste the way she manipulates those around her to do her bidding and how she is able to trick good people into doing bad things. Crazy as it seems, this was definitely a beer with her name on it.

Sources:
http://konachan.com/sample/5f432a5d3cbe76f19115d586df945c25/Konachan.com%20-%20207655%20sample.jpg

Josh the Revelator by Clown Shoes brewing

January 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Clown Shoes Brewing, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, dry hopped, Ella hops, Galaxy hops, Josh Baggett, Josh the Revelator, Mioda Ibuki, mosaic hops, Super Danganropa 2 | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Josh the Revelator by Clown Shoes brewing is a 10.2% Double India Pale Ale Dry hopped with Mosaic, Galaxy and Ella hops.

Label:
We feel this label, which depicts Josh Baggett shredding a bridge building guitar in space as a he pedals a pin training-wheeled bicycle while baby unicorns are born in his wake, fairly represents Josh’s rigourous path promoting craft beer to Texas. Josh, we love you man! Dry hopped with Mosaic, Galaxy and Ella hops.

==Introduction==

Exclusive to Texas, I was able to bring this brew to the website thanks to my friend and fellow reviewer Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. Clown Shoes has been very good to our states providing certain exclusive beers to certain markets and since we are able find these, the opportunity to send each other the beers helps so that this way you can decide if you will do the search for the beer yourself. This beer was in tribute to one of their reps, Josh Baggett who lives and sells Clown Shoes in Texas. Some good stuff and definitely something I would like to try from Clown Shoes. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apples, tangerine gummy bears, tropical fruit like dragon fruit, papaya, kiwi, honey dew melon, strawberries, passion fruit, prickly pear, papaya, guava, wild flower honey, grapefruit, piney, grassy and mildly herbal hops, caramel, biscuit bread, toffee, orange peel and vanilla.

Flavors:
Rich wild flower honey, caramel, biscuit bread, toffee, old oranges, orange peel, grapefruit, piney, grassy and mildly herbal hops, tropical fruit like dragon fruit, papaya, kiwi, honey dew melon, strawberries, passion fruit, prickly pear, papaya, guava, stone fruit peaches, apples, tangerine gummy bears, raspberry notes and mild strawberries

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a candied orange notes, tropical and stone fruit hints, earthy, piney and grapefruit hops. No alcohol in the despite the ABV, Golden Amber honey full body, silky, crisp, refreshing and rich mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good DIPA showcasing many of the flavors that I enjoy from Double IPAs like tropical fruits and citrucy hops. It is a limited release IPA but in case you don’t get a chance to try it, there are many other nice IPAs. It was difficult for me to differentiate it from other IPAs I have tried. I guess the strongest notes of like strawberry were some flavors that were outstanding. I recommend this one for sure if you can get it but there are other great IPAs out there.

Anime Corner:
Mioda Ibuki from Super Danganropa 2 was used in this pairing to pair with the colors of the label representing Josh as he uses his guitar and other musical instruments to make some awesome music flow like the flavor of this IPA to the taste buds as music would for the ears. Some deep IPA stuff.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/tbFxW8J.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Mioda.Ibuki.full.1798834.jpg

Super Bad by Gigantic brewing

January 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ahh! My Goddess, BellDandy, coffee, Cowboy Bebop, Faye Valentine, Gigantic Brewing, Imperial Stout, Jules Whinnfield, Pulp Fiction, Super Bad | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Beer #37 Super Bad by Gigantic brewing is a 9% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Coffee.

Label:
“You mind if I have some of your tasty beverage to wash this down?”
-Jules Whinnfield

This beer’s got somthin’ that’ll make you wanna shout got somethin’ that tells you what it’s all abou. It’s got soul and it’s superbad. Tastes so nice, gonna make you jump back, wanna kiss yourself~

==Introduction==

Bad… Ass… Muthafucka… The beer! I got this one at Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights California but this one is sold in many places and even online. A very awesome tribute to the movies of Samuel L. Jackson, Quentin Tarrentino and even the newer movies like Super Bad. Paying homage to the awesome comedy and cult flicks of the 90’s to now, but mainly Pulp Fiction. When I saw this, I nearly shit my pants! I said, oh hell yeah! This has to go on the website. Now it’s here with all of it’s glory!! Samuel L. Jackson/ Jules Whinnfield, it’ll get you drunk…. Mmmmm mmmmm bitch!

Aromas:
Very nice fancy coffee notes, Irish cream, Dark Chocolate, bakers chocolate, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, boysenberries, currants, dark cherries, tobacco, cappuccino, vanilla, earthy hops, roasty coffee notes, fruit cake notes, toffee, hazelnut, fudge cake and brown sugar!

Flavors:
Roasted Coffee beans, fancy coffee, Cappuccino notes, Milk chocolate, Dark Chocolate, bakers chocolate, plantains, vanilla, Irish cream, caramel, earthy hop notes, anise, licorice, mint, molasses, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, boysenberries, currants, dark cherries, leather, tobacco, oreo cookies and cream hints, dark chocolate fudge cake, coffee cake, fruit cake, brown sugar, charred notes, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and toffee.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit, earthy hops notes and roasted coffee. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body, creamy, rich, and smooth mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability despite the ABV.

Overall:
That’s a damn tasty beer! Good Mutha’Fn choice! There is so much delicious coffee, chocolate and dark fruit notes. Something Jules himself would probably drink for breakfast. I can say despite the label and the nostalgia of Pulp fiction, overall the beer is magnificent. If you are a fan of Samuel Jackson and/ or Pulp Fiction and/or of craft beer, do yourself a good one and find this beer. I think you will enjoy it!

Anime Corner:
Multiple characters from Pulp Fiction, Faye Valentine from Cowboy Bebop and BellDandy from Ahh! My Goddess were used in this beer pairing mainly for the whole theme of Pulp Fiction. The aspect of Pulp Fiction in general (the comic strip, not the movie) fits the pairing as well as not all the stories came in color. Some came in black and white. Like the way this label with Jules is presented with Purple and White. I can explain the details about how I think it pairs more but this one I will leave to you as the pairing itself says it all.

Sources:
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/695/419/dc3.jpg
http://orig05.deviantart.net/5b82/f/2012/184/1/f/1fc1db8aedbda301a57f63ea2d1f6bd7-d55rzja.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2009-03-07-148515.jpeg

Funky Kingston by (512) brewing

January 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged (512) brewing, American Wild Ale, Brettanomyces, Funky Kingston, Ghost in the Shell, Motoko Kusinagi, Pediococcus, Red Wine | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Funky Kingston by (512) brewing is a 7.4% ABV American Wild Ale aged in oak red wine barrels with brettanomyces and Pediococcus .

Label:
A funky ale aged over two years with Brett & Pedio in red wine barrels

==Introduction==

A special sour brew provided thanks to my good friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. I have had brew from (512) before thanks to Aaron, like their Peach sour which was delicious. This time, it is a sour using different bacteria strains for beer souring and wine barrels so the complexity in the sour spectrum sounds like it could be phenomenal. While Brett is one of my favorites, Pedio and Lacto are some very nice strains. Generally, sours are delicious either way for me. So let’s see what this sour is about.

Aromas:
Tart grape skins, wine grapes, concorde grapes, White wine grapes, dark fruit raisin hints Stone fruit peaches, apricots, mango, leathery notes, lemon peels, oak, caramel, vanilla, lactic acid, apple cider vinegar hints, funky farmhouse hay, peppercorn, mushrooms, rye bread and biscuit notes.

Flavors:
Stone fruit peaches, apricots, old mango, White wine grapes, dark fruit raisin hints, lemon peel, oak, vanilla, caramel, rye bread, tart grape skins, wine grapes, concorde grapes, rye bread, leather notes, cane sugar, honeycomb, peppercorn, funky and musty notes, mushrooms, farmhouse hay hints, vegetable hints, lactic acid, apple cider vinegar hints, wafflecone, crème brulee hints and agave nectar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with somefunky notes, rich stone fruits, grapes, oak, vanilla, bready notes and farmhouse hints. No alcohol in the taste. Orange honey clear to hazy body, crisp, refreshing and musty mouthfeel alont with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good funky wild ale providing the tart fruitiness and funky farmhouse like notes along with hints of the hints of tart sourness but not super sour. Ultimately a pleasantly brew to drink with both sides of the sour and funky coming together very nicely. This brew is something that I think people that love sours and funky wild ales will come to love this one. Very refreshing at that too!

Anime Corner:
Motoko Kusinagi from Ghost in the Shell was used mainly to pair with the colors of the different flavors of dark fruits but mainly with the label for the person with the sunglasses. Another way you can also see this is what lies deep within the sour brews. If only there was some spectacles that would allow sight into what the taste buds see when trying this beer. It would be pretty crazy.

Sources:
http://img15.deviantart.net/14f7/i/2014/246/5/8/ghost_in_the_shell_by_immarart-d7xssc8.jpg

Stochasticity Project Grainiac (aka Colon Blow) by Stone brewing

January 25, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Colon Blow, Grainiac, Megaman, Roll, Stochasticity Project, Stone Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Stochasticity Project Grainiac (aka Colon Blow) by Stone brewing is an 8.5% ABV Amber Ale brewed with Specialty Malts

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.

Shining a light on rare, unexplored grains with a dry- hopped malt bomb
This one was controversial. The brewing team suggested the name, a reference to a variety-show commercial parody. They thought it was hilarious. Boss said, “No way am I going to let a beer be named that!” So the boss shut it down. Hard. More names were floated. For a while it was Multigrains of Truth. The Let it Grain. The last one… the final one… was Grainiac. The brewing team was OK with it, but only OK. Marketing was fine with it. (At this point, they just wanted a decision made.) Sales? They groaned at each of them. “Boooring!”Finally, at a sales meeting, they, corralled the boss. Boss said, “I got your back, I’m not going to ask you to go out and sell a beer called Colon Blow.” Crickets. Then someone spoke up: “But we LIKE that name. It’s…hilarious!” Boss was floored. “OK, I’ll give in. You’re the ones selling it, so if you want that name, so be it. “Then the onslaught began from the name haters. The name lovers were equally loud. Rumble! Quandary! Boss asked Other Boss (aka Co-Founder/Partner) for his view. The response: “I think it’s pretty funny.” Plus the beer is awesome. And so it was done.

Beer Facts

Malt Varieties
2-Row Pale, White Wheat, Grouse Malted Millet, Grouse Malted Buckwheat, Cararye, golden Naked Oats & Triticale

Hop Varieties
Columbus, Chinook, Cascade & Centennial

==Introduction==

Stone has released the next level in their Stochasticity Projects. This beer is a new type of Amber Ale. It seems with this one they are going with a more Multigrain type of brew. Sounds like something health conscious. Beer, now healthy and good for you? Maybe. Even so, I really like the idea. Hell, Colon Blow sounds something like eating all that extra fiber to help you go to the bathroom. Hopefully, that is not the case after drinking this brew. Reminds me of that commercial “Oops I crapped my pants” with the adult diapers. I think that is what they were going for. Yes the TABC did not let this one go through the radar but in the end, we have a new brew. So let’s roll with it and see what this one is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Toffee, caramel, honey, coffee cake, pound cake, sweet potato notes, malty kernels, smoked peat, complex wood, vanilla, Pine, grapefruit, earthy, herbal and dank hop hints, dark fruit figs, vanilla, green tea ice cream, lemon candy, oatmeal cookies, wheat bread, rye bread, biscuit bread, grapes and piloncillo sugar cone.

Flavors:
Rich malt kernel flavors, Caramel, Toffee, smoked peat, complex wood, vanilla, dark fruit figs, chocolate hints, Pine, grapefruit, earthy, herbal and dank hop hints, lemons, starburst, honey dew melon, vanilla, green tea ice cream, lemon candy, oatmeal cookies, wheat bread, rye bread, biscuit bread, dark fruit grape jam on toasted bread, sweet potato, piloncillo sugar cone, banana nut bread, pound cake and coffee cake hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of complex malty and hopped notes, hints of dark fruit, earthy and herbal hops, malty and bready hints along with toffee and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, clear amber body, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability

Overall:
A very delicious and healthy multigrain beer. Maybe not healthy but close. The way this amber is setup is very unique since it is well balanced overall but the malty side it does present is very unique and complex but not in the very sweet malt way but the way complex bread and nuts are. The hoppiness overall cuts the extra sugar parts but also imparting its own fruitiness on there. I’d say this one is definitely worth the find as it is pretty damn unique.

Anime Corner:
Roll from Megaman was used in this pairing as I wanted to go with something similar sounding to Brainiac from the DC universe which is evil and attached to cables and has evil red eyes. Roll is usually really sweet, like the way this beer was. However, in this pairing she is looking down at the viewer and evil with Red eyes at a lab similar to Brainiac. So to me, a change to use this artwork and pair it with a beer that sounds close to Brainiac was the best pairing.

Sources:
http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/7/72303/1223870-1261077455703.jpg

Lizard King by Pipeworks

January 25, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged amarillo, American Pale Ale, APA, Godzilla, Lizard King, mosaic hops, Mothra, Pipeworks Brewing, space Godzilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Lizard King by Pipeworks is 6% ABV American Pale Ale brewed with Mosaic and Amarillo Hops.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
This American Pale Ale is fresh as they come and only being poured at select bars in Chicago. Brewed with Mosaic and Amarillo hops, Lizard King will be the perfect way to start (or end) your day.

==Introduction==

Pipeworks has made some many tasty brews and it is thanks to online stores that many can get their beers as they are primarily from the Midwest. Their IPAs rule but this is the first time I will be trying one of their Pale Ales. The label looks awesome like Geon from King of Monsters fighting a giant Skeleton Monster. I’m assuming the whole lizard thing goes inside with the hops but not sure. Either way, let’s see what this one is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Grapefruit, citrus, floral, piney and grassy hops, Stone fruit, peaches, apricot, lychee, lemon candy, crabapples, tropical fruits like passion fruit, kiwi, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, mango, papaya, guava, oranges, cherries, kumquats, honey, sweetened condensed milk, orange peel and green tea ice cream.

Flavors:
Rich tropical fruits like passion fruit, kiwi, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, mango, kumquats,
Stone fruit, peaches, apricot, lychee, lemon candy, crabapples, grapefruit, citrus, floral, piney and grassy hops, honey, sweetened condensed milk, orange peel, strawberries, prickly pear tunas, Starburst, mango cheese cake, papaya, guava, oranges, cherries, grapes, green tea ice cream, gummy bears, and tangerine preserves.

Aftertaste:
Rich stone fruits, tropical fruits, biscuit bread, herbal, grapefruit, citrus, lemon candy and orange hops and starburst candy. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy Golden honey body, smooth crisp, rich, and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
Supreme delicious hoppy goodness! This was a damn good IPA. Like the Psuedo Sue I had from Toppling Goliath, they managed to get the rich tropical goodness of their IPAs to be fruitier in their American Pale Ale form. I wish we had this one here in California as I would probably get this one all the time. Like Psuedo Sue, a supreme Pale Ale amongst them all. Now with this being about Lizards, it was well fitting. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Godzilla, Super Godzilla and Mothra from the Godzilla series was used in this pairing to go with the whole aspect of the Lizard King as Godzilla is the original and true King of the Monsters. The reason I used Space Godzilla-Chan was because the way she sits on the throne looking like a king or a bad ass. Technically, Space Godzilla is like an evil brother to Godzilla but either way, the whole Lizard King theme was awesome here. Mothra and Godzilla is hinted as being more than friends.

Sources:
http://img09.deviantart.net/d9e9/i/2009/105/e/0/a_samurai_and_his_love_by_kaijusamurai.jpg
https://archive.loveisover.me/foolfuuka/boards/d/image/1420/43/1420436629594.jpg

Passionate Dragon collaboration by Bottle Logic and Arizona Wilderness brewing

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, Arizona Wilderness brewing, Asmodeus, Astaroth, Astarotto, Bottle Logic brewing, Centennial Kumquats, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, dragon fruit, King of Fighters, KOF, Leona Heidern, passion fruit, Passionate Dragon, Red Wine Barrels, Saison, Shinra Bansho, Shinra Banshou, Shinrabansho, white wine grapes | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Passionate Dragon collaboration by Bottle Logic and Arizona Wilderness brewing is an 8.8% ABV American Farmhouse Ale/Saison brewed with Passion fruit, Dragon Fruit, Centennial Kumquats and aged in Red&White Wine Barrels.

Label:
Level 1 Limited
Brewed in collaboration with our bearded brethren at Arizona Wilderness Brewing, Co. This Saison boasts 6 different locally sourced fruit varietals plus heritage Sonoran white wheat and local harvested Arizona bay leaves.
#Science + #Nature = #Passion! End Transmission.

==Introduction==

Dragonfruit has been one of those elusive and exotic fruits that really don’t get around much as like let’s say cherries or bananas. Neither does Passion fruit and usually is why the price of these fruits is higher than common fruits. So, since I like rarity, a beer with these 2 fruits is definitely something I would want to try. Heck, the use of these fruits has inspired me to make a beer using them. I like to take stuff a step beyond but only time will tell how it will be. Either way, this is a dragon and passion fruit beer that really intrigued me so the fact that I was able to bring it to the site is such an honor. I hear this one was well coveted and to get this one was not an easy feat. Let’s see if it stands to my expectations.

Aromas:
Rich Dragon Fruit, Passion fruit, Stone fruit tart apricot, mango, kiwi fruit, honey dew melon, prickly pears, lemon, farmhouse hay, white wine grapes, red wine grapes, musty oak, Apples, Kumquats, Crab Apples, Oranges, Cranberries, yerba buena, mint, peppercorn, bay leaf, basil, persimmon, cane sugars, tangerine preserves and peppercorn.

Flavors:
Rich Dragon Fruit, Passion fruit, white wine grapes, red wine grapes, musty oak, Apples, Kumquats, Crab Apples, Oranges, Cranberries, Stone fruit tart apricot, mango, kiwi fruit, honey dew melon dryness, lemon, farmhouse hay, Chardonnay, Raspberries, Blueberries, pine apple hints, biscuit bread, vanilla, herbal notes, yerba buena, mint, peppercorn, bay leaf, basil, lychee fruit, tangerine preserves, strawberries, persimmon and cane sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishes tart dry with lingering oak, tropical fruits like that dragon fruit, raspberries, farmhouse hay, oak, vanilla and citrus. No alcohol in the taste. Gold and pink clear body, crisp, refreshing and mildly creamy mouthfeel and easy to drink despite the ABV.

Overall:
Damn exceptional! Probably one of the best saisons I have ever had. The exotic fruits really stand out on this beer and this brew being a template for the Dragon beer I’m making, I can come back to this one and see if the addition of the passion fruit and dragon fruit really makes a difference. I highly recommend this one. It’s the kind of beer you want to keep drinking all the time!

Anime Corner:
Leona Heidern from King of Fighters, Astaroth and Asmodeus from Shinra Bansho were used in this pairing to pair with the aspect of the Dragon in terms of the color of pink dragon fruits, passion fruit being the heart of Astaroth and the dragon like characteristics of both Asmodeus and Astaroth. Really, I just wanted to be able to pair the 2 demon girls with an awesome dragon beer. Leona was a Bonus with the nice dragon fruit colors. Oh and in that red haired mode, she unleashes a lot of rage, she is, the passionate dragon.

Sources:
https://k42.kn3.net/taringa/1/3/2/4/1/8/7/iruel/E41.jpg?4691
http://i.imgur.com/kLTVw1M.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CNr13QnXAAAW0F1.jpg

20th Anniversary Higher Math by Dogfish Head

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2015 White chocolate, 20th Anniversary, 20th Anniversary Ale, Android 18, Belgian Golden Strong Ale, cherries, DBZ, Dogfish Head, Dragon ball, Dragon Ball Z, Higher Math, Lazuli, Sour Cherry Juice | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

20th Anniversary Higher Math by Dogfish Head is a 17% ABV Belgian Golden Ale brewed with Chocolate and Sour Cherry Juice.

Label:
Celebrating 20 off-centered years with our luscious chocolate-cherry birthday cake in liquid form.

==Introduction==

Holy Shit! It’s been a long time since Dogfish Head released a super gravity beer. Perfect along with Fort. The last time I tried a high gravity brew that was up in the 16% to 18% ABV from them was Dogfish Head 120 IPA. A crazy insane IPA that I wish I could find again. With the release of this beer, my need to the high gravity (Aside from the Bruery stuff) can be satisfied once again. These are the beers that you definitely cellar for a long time and see how it evolves. Since I don’t wanna wait and bring this to the site to see if you should cash for this one, I will be trying this one and let you know hot it is, like I always do. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, grapes, currants, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, raspberries, Chocolate Orange Creamcicle, grilled bananas, dulce de leche caramel, banana cream pie, cinnamon, flan, double fudge cherry cake, honey, maple syrup, cherry cordials, port wine hints, milk chocolate, hazelnut nectar, orange peel, coriander, toffee, rye bread, tangerine preserves on toasted bread, butterscotch and tres leches cake.

Flavors:
Chocolate Orange Creamcicle, grilled bananas, dulce de leche caramel, banana cream pie, cinnamon, flan, milk chocolate, hazelnut nectar, orange peel, coriander, dark fruit raisins, figs, grapes, currants, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, raspberries, toffee, rye bread, tangerine preserves on toasted bread, butterscotch, tres leches cake, Stone fruit apricots, peaches in cream, apple pie, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, double fudge cherry cake, honey, maple syrup, cherry cordials, port wine hints, grape must, capirotada raisin bread pudding, fruit cake and piloncillo sugar cone.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich cherry, orange, hints of chocolate, dark fruits, stone fruits, rye bread, tangerine preserves on toasted bread and rich honey. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the already rich flavors. Bloody Crimson hazy body, silky, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally luscious high gravity goodness. Warms up the tummy on those late fall/ early winter days. There was so much going in this beer. For being high gravity, you could still taste the complex flavors even if the alcohol was slight. My only regret was that I could not get any more of these bottles. Now I will have to track them down so I can try it again. That or the other high gravity brews from Dogfish Head for sure. Any of them would be awesome. But seriously, if you like these types of beers, this one is king!

Anime Corner:
Android 18 (Lazuli) from Dragon Ball Z was paired with this one mainly for the colors of the beer and label but mainly the whole ABV and numbers relative to the name, Higher Math. The strength is a major as well seeing that Android 18 coming from Dragon Ball Z would be one of the strongest females in Anime History and one hot looking one at that. Next to Goku or Vegeta, Lazuli is my favorite since growing up with DBZ.

Sources:
http://1.media.dorkly.cvcdn.com/34/86/f4c98b05a6528bfc1f784dd84235a951.jpg

Beer #88 Ginormous by Gigantic brewing

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged DIPA, Gigantic Brewing, Ginormous, Imperial India Pale Ale, Imperial IPA, Kill-LA-Kill, Mazinger Z, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Beer #88 Ginormous by Gigantic brewing is an 8.8% ABV Imperial IPA.

Label:
Developed in a secret testing facility deep in S.E. Portland Ginormous is powered by Seven Mighty Hops. His Mission is simple; To deliver a massive hop punch to those in need.

==Introduction==

Mazinger!!!! Finally, an anime tribute beer. A tribute to the classic series Mazinger Z where the hero fights other aliens and robots using a super robot he commands from his ship that attaches to the head of the robot. Kinda how hops invade the brains of craftbeer lovers and make everyone hop heads. I see what ya did there Gigantic, Good Game… Good Game. Eitherway, I figure I bring it to the site being anime beer and all that. Let’s see what kind of beer this brew is exactly. Cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, Oranges, caramel, toffee, tangerines, juicy fruit starburst, Grapefruit, piney, floral, citrus, herbal, grassy, hops, tropical hints of fruit kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee, guava, mango, biscuit bread, marzipan, cane sugar, wafflecone hints, stone fruit peach hints and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Grapefruit, piney, floral, citrus, herbal, grassy, hops, tangerines, juicy fruit starburst, tropical fruit notes of kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee, guava, mango, lemon grass, mandarin orange gummy bears, orange peel, raspberries, papaya, strawberries, honey, biscuit bread, marzipan, cane sugar, wafflecone hints, caramel, toffee, stone fruit peach hints and berry flavors.

Aftertaste:
Dank herbal, rich citrus, tangerines, coriander hints, tropical fruits, stone fruits and piney hop notes. No alcohol in the taste, Clear honey golden body, rich, crisp, refreshing and delicious mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good IPA leaning more toward the citrucy caramel side than the super grassy or super tropics. A very enjoyable double IPA that pays tribute to anime. It is awesome to know how many craftbrewers come from a range of passions ranging from video games, comics, anime, sports, music, fishing and other hobbies leading to infuse their passion with other things. Kinda like this website . Anyway, This one is very good and definitely recommended if you love IPAs and Anime.

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill and Mazinger Z were used in this pairing for the colors of the label but also the theme of the beer. Since this is a Mazinger beer, I wanted to with him but also since Ryuko has some colors to complement with Mazinger, I figured it was for the best. Ryuko’s design is based on old school anime, especially the hair. Frilly and psychedelic. Either way, a good tribute to the first cartoons of my childhood mixing with one of my favorite anime characters, Huzzah!!

Sources:
http://pre12.deviantart.net/0fef/th/pre/f/2014/279/f/8/kill_la_kill_wallpaper_edit_by_firezombiedude-d81v22q.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/6jkvIe5.jpg
http://img04.deviantart.net/1cdb/i/2012/154/b/4/mazinger_z_by_ieko2011-d52381e.jpg

Firestone XIX Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 19th Anniversary, anniversary ale, Beer Hybrid, Blake Belladona, bourbon, cuvee, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Firestone XIX, FW, Ruby Rose, Rwby, Strategy guide, Weisse Schnee, World class, world class beers, Yang Xiao Long | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Firestone XIX Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker is a World Class Strong Multi-liquor Barrel Aged Style Hybrid Blend Ale.

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

==Introduction==

Another awesome entry in the list of Firestone Anniversary beers. These beers have been very massive Cuvees mixing in several notable entries in their list of awesome beers. Usually a mix of more than 6 beers would go into one and trying to figure it out would be like a crazy strategy game. This year however, they only mixed in 4 brews. While still awesome, I wonder how taking a step back may improve the perception of the taste in this one. The brew will either be as complex as the others before it or it will be just as close as the fusion may have given rise to newer flavors. Only one way to find out.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, currants blackberries, prunes, raspberries, rich marshmallows, chocolate smores, oatmeal cookies, oreo cookies and cream, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, Rocky Road Icecream, clove spice, grilled bananas, vanilla, bourbon, rich oak, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate and flan.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, clove spice, grilled bananas, vanilla bourbon, rich oak, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, almonds, walnuts, hazelnut nectar, rich marshmallows, chocolate smores, oatmeal cookies, oreo cookies and cream, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, currants blackberries, prunes, raspberries, piloncillo, dark candy sugar, rock candy, tres leches cake, flan, sweetened condensed milk, rye bread, molasses, anise, whiskey, brandy notes, chocolate cherry ice cream, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, fudge brownies, Irish cream coffee, port wine and capirotada raisin bread pudding.

Aftertaste:
Super complex aftertaste with rich flavors of Bourbon, brandy, maple syrup, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal and oreo cookies, rich dark fruits, oak, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, banana cream pie and mild earthy hop notes. No alcohol in the taste, crimson pitch black body, silky smooth, creamy, velvety and slightly syrupy mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Extremely exceptional! Even though they used only a composition of their best 4 beers, this turned out to be very complex still. While the craziness to dissect isn’t as crazy as their other beers and to see what flavors came from what and so forth, this one expands on the bit of complexity each brings and well, goes insane. Doesn’t make much sense right? But that’s essentially how I see it. Either each flavor is enhanced as it complements like flavors but also some flavors may have changed with the fusion. As a result, even at its coldest it will evolve to other flavors as it warms up. Just another delicious find you should look for.

Anime Corner:
Ruby Rose, Yang XiaoLong, Weisse Schnee and Blake Belladonna from RWBY were used in this pairing as I wanted to represent the 4 beers that were used to make up this beer, Parabola=Ruby, Stickee Monkee=Yang, Velvet Merkin=Weisse and Bravo=Blake. Ruby is Parabola as she is the leader of the bunch but also the name is like the shape of her scythe. Yang is the Stickee Monkee as she, like monks and shaolin monks alike, is versed in the inner strength and martial arts. Weisse is Velvet Merkin as she uses swords and magic to summon. Blake is Bravo like Brave and Courage as she is shy but can be very passionate about what she does. Altogether, make the team that is this beer,

Sources:
http://ww2.sinaimg.cn/large/810c16d6gw1ej5nlt2bigj215o0pogw2.jpg
http://pds25.egloos.com/pds/201408/22/30/d0142330_53f6ebb8997ba.jpg

2015 Fort by Dogfish Head

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Strong Ale, Dogfish Head, Fort, Fruit Beer, Naruto, Raspberries, Raspberry, sakura Haruno | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 Fort by Dogfish Head is an 18% ABV American Strong fruit Ale brewed with Raspberry Puree.

Commercial Description:
An ale brewed with a ridiculous amount of pureed raspberries (over a ton of ’em!). Fort has a Belgian-style base, then we follow a similar fermentation process to the one we use on our other super-high ABV beers, 120 Minute IPA and World Wide Stout.

==Introduction==

The return of one of my favorite Raspberry beers ever! Dogfish Head released this beer back in 2007 and 2009. I don’t think I had seen it since the last time it came out but back then it was one of the strongest beers I have ever had at the time. They released it as a 750ML so basically it would be hard to consume alone. I didn’t give a jack! So rich and juicy this was. Now on 2015, they released it once again in 12 ounce bottles. The original 750ml bottle was pricey so does not surprised me why they only sell one at a time. For 18% ABV, that’s pretty ridiculous though. Anyway, I do plan to review this beer again as I have one I bought back in 2007 and sometime this year or the next it will be at its height of aging. Let’s see how it will fair. So now, on to the review!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruits like raisins, raspberries, figs, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, honey, caramel, vanilla, cane sugar, bananas, clove spice, Chambord raspberry liquor, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, honey dew melon, candy sugar, rock candy, cream pie, bubble gum, port wine notes, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry cheese cake and sweetenend condensed milk.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberries, rich honey, caramel, vanilla, cane sugar, burnt caramel, toffee, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, honey dew melon, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry cheese cake, sweetenend condensed milk, wine grapes, rich Chambord raspberry liquor, leather notes, rye bread, port wine notes, raspberry soaked in rum, bananas, clove spice, candy sugar, rock candy, cream pie and bubble gum.

Aftertaste:
Rich raspberry, honey, caramel, vanilla, biscuit bread, dark fruits, stone fruits, raspberry cobbler, leather notes, rye bread and lingering Chambord Raspberry liqueur. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Crimson Honey clear body, silky, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The glorious punch of pure raspberry power! To this day, this is the best Raspberry beer ever. I don’t down play any others since Raspberry beers rule but this… this is on some god level shit… Dogfish Head made a real winner here that I wish to see again and again. So after 9 years since I got the 750ml bottle, I think the time to bring it to the site will be soon. For the meantime, go find this!!

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I used her for the original Fort. Her hair and over all colors match that of the colors, flavors and the label itself with the green colors representing the eyes of the girl in the label. Sakura is not weak by any means. She has ridiculous super human strength and her punches represent that pure raspberry punch I was mentioning earlier. The alcohol is her strength and the sweetness is her desires.

Sources:
http://wallpaperfullscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Haruno-Sakura-Wallpaper-HD.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/kuronekoplus/imgs/9/a/9a1b2c4c.jpg
http://orig12.deviantart.net/7ac6/f/2011/295/b/8/sakura_haruno_by_serathus-d2ol72w.jpg

Barrel Aged Neapolitan Milk Stout by Saugatuck brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barrel Aged Neapolitan Milk Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chocolate, Double Barrel, Heaven Hill Bourbon Barrels, Milk Stout, Neapolitan, Rwby, Saugatuck brewing, Strawberries, Sweet Stout, vanilla, Woodford Reserve | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Barrel Aged Neapolitan Milk Stout by Saugatuck brewing is a 6.5% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with chocolate, vanilla and strawberries double barrel aged in Woodford Reserve and Heaven Hill bourbon barrels.

Commercial desription:
Barrel Aged Neapolitan Milk Stout, a full-bodied milk stout with chocolate, vanilla and strawberry added during brewing……the beer you know and love now aged in a mixture of Woodford Reserve and Heaven Hill Barrels for 9 months.

==Introduction==

A while back my friend Aaron had mentioned something about a Neapolitan ice cream beer that I wanted to try out. I was unable to find it until I checked www.mybeercollectibles.com and saw this one for a very small price. I figured I go for it as I don’t think I would have found it anyways. The idea of a Neapolitan ice cream and beer was mind blowing. It is an idea that makes me want to actually make a recipe like this. Anyway, let’s see what this brew has to offer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Milk shake, Neapolitan ice cream, cotton candy, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry shake, marshmallows, hazelnut nectar, almond joy, pecans, cookie dough, Danish cream, Glazed and cream filled doughnuts, crème brulee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, graham crackers, Irish cream coffee, spiced coffee, bananas, clove spice, cinnamon, pecan pie, Double Chocolate fudge cherry cake, flan, three milks/3 leches cake, brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk.

Flavors:
Rich Neapolitan ice cream, crème brulee, cotton candy, raspberries, cherries, coffee cake, steamed milk sweetened condensed milk, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry shake, marshmallows, hazelnut nectar, almond joy, pecans, cookie dough, Danish cream, Glazed and cream filled doughnuts, oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, graham crackers, Irish cream coffee, spiced coffee, bananas, clove spice, cinnamon, ginger hints, molasses, anise, Double Chocolate fudge cherry cake, flan, three milks/3 leches cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, and more.

Aftertaste:
Leaves with rich chocolate, milk shake, vanilla, strawberries, dark fruit, mild spicy notes, oak and bourbon hints. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body, smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Like an unbelievable frothy Neapolitan ice cream. Whatever they did to get this beer to be like Neapolitan, they did it. It is literally a liquid ice cream. There’s so much flavor goodness, so much its crazy. This is definitely a must try and worth the money. I think though they should have made this one a 22oz bottle though. Now with that being said, I have to figure out how to make this brew a reality and brew my own recipe. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Neapolitan from RWBY was the obvious choice in this pairing. She is technically one of the Antagonists of the series. Her sweet stare is only that, sweet. She along with Cinder are evil. She is kind of the psychotic one. I am not sure what she has to do with the beer in terms of her personality but for characteristics, she is all over this beer, colors, flavors, label and all.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/QfsJfFY.jpg
https://41.media.tumblr.com/8d951887d7d5d68095365932a6497d3f/tumblr_nef85kXQhb1ti0udjo1_500.jpg
http://41.media.tumblr.com/d36f1644c0d226c607a936d2f4025b92/tumblr_nf7dwbfXvk1s5wms6o1_1280.jpg

Limited Edition Shock Top Spiced Banana by Anheuser-Busch

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Anheiser busch, banana, Belgian Wheat Ale, Citrus, honey, Madoka Magica, Shock top, Shock Top beer, Spiced Banana, Spices, Tomoe Mami, wheat ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Limited Edition Shock Top Spiced Banana by Anheuser-Busch is a 5.5% ABV Belgian-Style Wheat Ale brewed with citrus peels, honey, spice and banana and With Artificial Flavor added.

Label:
None

==Introduction==

So often, crafty beer gets a bad rap for being produced by macrobreweries in order to take up shelf space at the supermarket in place of microbrews. While I do not often review these beers as I prefer local and microbreweries, sometimes I do get free stuff from friends at parties. This one, since I liked it, my friend gave me a bottle. I found this one to be, pretty tasty. Check it out!

Aromas:
Bananas, clove spice, vanilla, caramel, apple pie notes, biscuit bread, cereal grains, hazelnut hints, coriander spice, orange peel, peppercorn, cinnamon, honey, strawberry yogurt hints and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Bananas, coriander spice, orange peel, peppercorn, cinnamon, honey, strawberry yogurt hints, ginger, clove spice, vanilla, caramel, biscuit bread, cereal grains, hazelnut hints, brown sugar, apple pie, pecan pie hints, cane sugar and apples.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with Coriander spice, cinnamon, ginger, banana and strawberry hints. No alcohol in the taste, hazy honey colored body, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good wheat beer. Despite this one being from a macro, they made a consistent product. The Banana and strawberry yogurt flavors are delicious on this one. I feel while it is a well-made beer, people may not want to try it since it is from a Macro. This one, like the ShockLate are some of my favorites even if they are from Macros. I don’t agree with what they do for the shelve space nor would I go out to buy it but when I like something, I am sure to put it here. So if you like wheat brews you may or may not like this one.

Anime Corner:
Tomoe Mami from Madoka Magica was used in this pairing since I wanted to find a piece of artwork that would go with the colors of the label but also the whole banana them of the beer mainly.

Sources:
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/moebutasokuho/imgs/c/a/cae75065-s.jpg

Steve Austin’s Broken Skull IPA by El Segundo brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged (512) brewing, American Imperial Pale Ale, American IPA, Broken Skull IPA, Cuz Stone Cold Said So, El Segundo Brewing, ESBC, IPA, Steve Austin, Stone Cold, Stone Cold Beer, Stone Cold Stunner, Stunner, That's The Bottom Line, World Wresting Entertainment, World Wresting Federation, WWE, WWF | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Steve Austin’s Broken Skull IPA by El Segundo brewing is a 6.7% ABV American India Pale Ale.

Label:
A bad-ass 6.7% IPA designed by Steve Austin and ESBC for the working man & woman. It features Citra, Cascade, and Chinook hops to deliver big flavor with an easy finish. Now stop reading and start enjoying this awesome beer! Cheers! Steve.

==Introduction==

So, Steve Austin from WWE got together with one of my local breweries to brew a beer… I nearly lost my shit! This was some freaking bad ass news! I know the theme of different celebrities and bands getting together to brew beer such as Will Wheaton on W00tStout or Iron Maiden’s Trooper beer. Hell, even Cyanide & Happiness had a beer. So in the spirit of collaborations with other popular entities other than other breweries, I say keep them coming! Heck I hope one day I get to collaborate with an actual Anime or Manga artist that likes beer. I already make actual Anime themed homebrews and labels. Ofcourse I can’t sell them but my good friends and family seem to love them. Anyways, On with the show and let’s see if this brew is a Stone Cold Stunner!

Aromas:
Super dankness, grapefruit, herbal, floral, piney and grassy hops, tropical notes of mango, passion fruit, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, kiwi, raspberry, prickly pear tunas and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Dank, herbal, grapefruit, floral, grassy and piney hops, Orange peel, lemon candy, lemon peel, starburst candy, honey dew melon, some tropical notes like dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pear tuna, raspberry, kiwi notes, biscuit bread, tangerines, mango hints, strawberry hints and caramel hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some lingering herbal and grassy hop notes, tropical fruit hints and grapefruit peel. No alcohol in the taste. Light Straw Body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good IPA, and that’s the bottom line! Very refreshing and pretty close to easy to drink. Since Stone Cold helped with this creation, he definitely has good taste and has definitely moved on from the cheap cans he used to guzzle down in wrestling. Certainly a change for the better and definitely something that many IPA lovers will enjoy. This brew was limited to select markets so if you are able to find it before too long, give it a shot. Go find this brew! Cuz, Stone Cold said so!

Anime Corner:
Original characters were used in this pairing to go with the aspect of the Broken Skull from Steve Austin. Back in the WWF/WWE days of late 90’s and early 2000’s, it was the “Attitude” era and the black and red were pretty influential colors in wrestling. With that being said, I was looking for art would that would basically show a skull but was also bad ass. I think with this I was able to find a good pairing for the beer.

Sources:
http://images3.alphacoders.com/649/649990.jpg
https://files.yande.re/sample/9cae7cebe292c86bf221f6a37477a73b/yande.re%20334156%20sample%20halloween%20kagehana_%28artist%29.jpg

Despertado en Manzanilla by Freetail brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Ananke, Bees, Chamomile, Despertado en Manzanilla, Freetail Brewing, oak barrels, Witicus, Woodicus | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Despertado en Manzanilla by Freetail brewing is a 7.3% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with Chamomile and aged in oak barrels.

Label:
The first batch of Witicus at our new S. Presa digs was a lesson in brewhouse perseverance. We put it to bed in a combination of our old pub barrels that produced Ananke and Woodicus, as well as newer barrels recently relinquished from viticulture. We crossed our fingers and dreamed of Woodicus. What we got was an unexpected delight: rough-edges smoothed over, slightly tart nuances threading through and chamomile awakened in all its humble glory.

==Introduction==

Awoken in Chamomile as stated by the name was a brew that was traded to me by my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com. This one uses Freetail’s base brew, Witicus but aged in oak with some Chamomile. A very awesome sounding beer that we were able to bring to the website thanks to Aaron. There aren’t many brews out there that use Chamomile in the beers and to have this one here is very unique. For Freetail brewing, let’s see how their Chamomile beer stacks up. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit apricot, peaches, lime notes, orange peel, cane sugar, chamomile, honey, floral notes, hibiscus, peppercorn, oak, wine notes, funky notes, banana hints, strawberry hints, biscuit bread, crème brulee hints, yerba buena mint and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Honey, Chamomile, hibiscus notes, floral notes, peppercorn, oak, white wine grapes, funky notes, wheat bread, coriander spice, Stone fruit apricot, peaches, lime notes, orange peel, cane sugar, honey comb, banana hints, strawberry hints, biscuit bread, crème brulee hints, yerba buena mint, green tea and earthy notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some notes of oak, chamomile, oak, wine grapes and cake sugar. No alcohol in the taste. Golden Honey colored full body, crisp, smooth, refreshing and rich mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer. Some notes of the chamomile are present but mainly some complex goodness melds together into a very nice tart brew. I think fans of saisons and wild ales will dig this one. Thanks to my friend Aaron for this delicious brew and Freetail for making it. Hopefully, one day we can get Freetail beers around the west coast.

Anime Corner:
Original Bee Girl was used in this pairing as it represents the bee and the colors of the flavors and the label of this beer. Bees and bats go hand in hand like I stated a while back in my homebrew about how they relate to extracting nectar from flowers. The same nectar that coincides with the delicious nectar of this beer and the Chamomile flowers the bees get it from. So to me the bee girl was the good choice for this.

Sources:
http://www.theanimegallery.com/data/thumbs/790px/0120/tAG_120516.jpg

I’ll Be Your BasilBerry by Five Stones brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Basil, blackberries, Cibolo Texas, Five Stones, Five Stones brewing of Cibolo Texas, I'll Be Your BasilBerry, Lily Salvatana, Outlaw Django, Tre Donne Crudeli | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

I’ll Be Your BasilBerry by Five Stones brewing of Cibolo Texas is a 6.5% ABV American Pale Wheat ale handcrafted with Fresh Blackberries and Basil.

Label:
Batch 1 year brewed 2015
Contains fruit sediment
Chill 24 hours before opening

==Introduction==

Received from a trade my friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola from BeeMetaldude.com had sent to me. I have had many beers from Five Stones all thanks to him and hope to get more in the future. This time around, we have a blackberry and basil wheat beer. The sounds of it remind me of the time I tried a Blackberry beer in the past from Sam Adams. It was one of my favorites at the time. Now exploring something unique, I am glad to give another Blackberry brew a place here on the site. So let’s see what this one is about.

Aromas:
Biscuit bread, herbal tea notes, sweet grapefruit hints, orange peel, earthy hop notes, brown sugar, dark fruit notes of raisins, blackberries, currants, blueberries, peppercorn, coriander, clove spice, ginger spice hints and piloncillo sugar cone.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, blackberries, currants, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, banana and strawberry yogurt, blackberry cobbler, peppercorn, coriander, clove spice, ginger spice hints, basil, vanilla, herbal tea notes, sweet grapefruit hints, orange peel, earthy hop notes, brown sugar, piloncillo hints, biscuit bread and toasted rye bread with berry jelly.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with dark fruit notes, herbal notes, spices, vanilla, earthy notes, strawberry and banana yogurt hints. No alcohol in the taste, rich full amber and peach body, smooth, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkinability.

Overall:
A very delicious brew with so much going around. One thing to note is careful when opening this one up. It does seem to be a bit more carbonated but that’s typical of some delicious strong wheat, sour or fruit beers. Regardless, so much flavors of the dark fruit berries with the citrusy oranges and herbal notes making this more of a blackberry tea beer. I definitely recommend this one if you like fruit and herbal beers.

Anime Corner:
Lily Salvatana from Tre Donne Crudeli “Outlaw” Django was used in this pairing to pair with the cowboy in the label but also works well since her is dark purple like the blackberries of the beer that his presents. Also, the overall colors of the beer complement the artwork showing many instances of how well the pairing works.

Sources:
http://k31.kn3.net/taringa/2/2/0/6/5/1/47/ruffo-ban/9DC.jpg

Peach Bexarliner by Freetail Brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Berlinerweisse, Freetail Brewing, Peach Bexarliner, Peaches, Tenshi Hinanawi, Touhou Project | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Peach Bexarliner by Freetail Brewing is a 6.5% ABV Berlinerweisse brewed with peaches.

Label:
As summer swelters on, we bring you this wistful twist on our tart seasonal Berliner Weisse. Brewed to a higher gravity and refermented on Texas peaches, this refreshing ale recalls the first blossom of spring and the fulfilled promise of the fruits of summer.

==Introduction==

Another awesome brew from my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetaldude.com makes its way to the site. This time, a Berliner from Freetail with peaches. Typically, Berliners are tart to sour like light and refreshing brews. With the addition of peaches to this one, I would think it would enhance the stone fruit presence of the original beer. Freetail is one of my favorites so far from Texas and the fact that we have some of their beers on the site here is definitely an honor. Without further ado, let us analyze this brew. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruits, lemon peel, waffle cone, biscuit bread, coriander spice, peppercorn, pilsnery malt, orange peels, wheat bread, biscuit bread, honey and grape notes.

Flavors:
Stone fruit Tart and rich peaches, apricots, mango hints, biscuit bread, wheat, coriander spice, orange peel, tart white grapes, cranberry hints, wheat bread, dough, honey, strawberry hints, tangerines, vanilla, cane sugar, passion fruit hints, lemon peel, sweet limes, waffle cone, peach cobbler and sweetened condensed milk hints

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with some left over tartness from the stone fruits, wine grape notes, sweet biscuit bread
No alcohol in the taste. Hazy golden body, rich, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A Berliner that is jam packed full of peaches and still has delicious tartness to boot. I like how the edge of sweetness is balancing with the tartness reminding you this is still a tarty sour beer but still sweet. I think this would probably be the best Berliner I have had in a while and I give thanks to my friend Aaron for sending this my way. A definite recommend.

Anime Corner:
Tenshi Hinanawi from Touhou Project was brought back to a beer pairing with peaches as I like using her in reviews especially with peach beers. This time however, I was able to nail an artwork that best paired not only with the flavors of the beer but the nice colors of the label with the reds, blues, yellows and other colors. A sweet pairing overall.

Sources:
http://cdn.aixifan.com/dotnet/artemis/u/cms/www/201403/20191458uhcc.png

Komorebi by Freetail brewing

January 21, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Tripel, Freetail Brewing, Komorebi, Mezcal, Mezcal barrel aged, oak wine barrels, Pears | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Komorebi by Freetail brewing is an 11.2% ABV Belgian Tripel brewed with Pears with 1/3 aged in Mezcal Barrels and 2/3 aged in Wine Oak Barrels.

Label:
Komorebi is the sunlight filtering through the leaves of a tree-a refreshing curtain of light penetrating through the shade. Komorebi, the beer, is a Belgian-style Tripel fermented with pears,1/3 aged in freshly emptied Mezcal barrels and 2/3 aged in wine barrels. This is the first beer to emerge from our wood-program at our new brewery – the first light penetrating the shade.

==Introduction==

This cool Freetail brew was sent to me by my friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. Check out his awesome reviews!

What really intrigued me about this one is that it was aged with Mezcal. While I have been fortunate enough to try Tequila Barrel aged beers, I have not tried Mezcal barrel aged beers so having this on the site is pretty unique and quite the treat. While Freetail is mainly in Texas, it is always a pleasure to be able to get these beers from my friend to try something different and have a take at Texas best. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, mango, pears, Mezcal, tequila hints, agave, banana notes, phenolic hints, clove spice, bubble gum, oak, white wine grapes, cherries, blueberries, honeycomb, chardonnay, caramel, vanilla, biscuit bread, rye brown sugar, white raisins and flan.

Flavors:
Rich pears, Mezcal, tequila hints, agave nectar, oak, white wine grapes, stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, mango hints, peppercorn, cherries, blueberries, honeycomb, chardonnay, caramel, vanilla, rye bread, biscuit bread, rum hints, brown sugar, white raisins, flan hints, piloncillo hints, marshmallow, banana notes, phenolic hints, clove spice, bubble gum, strawberry notes, candi sugar, lechugilla agave juice and cane sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with a sweet with remaining sweet pears, white wine grapes, pear, stone fruits, Belgian Candi sugar, Mezcal and agave nectar. No alcohol in the taste. Hazy gold and honey body, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel with a easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A damn exceptional piece of crafted potion goodness. There is a lot of complex flavors ranging from the Belgian phenolics, Stone fruit to the wine and delicious caramels which is the stuff I really like from many beers. This one is a high recommend for those who can find it.

Anime Corner:
Original character was used in this pairing as I wanted to get the colors of the label and agave to work together. The pairing seems very well as I like how it blends together, almost camouflaged. Definitely for me, the best pairing for the art work.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/6fQZ80w.jpg

Flight Of The Angry Beast by Clown Shoes

January 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bleach, Clown Shoes Brewing, English Barley Wine, Extremely Angry Beast, Flight of The Angry Beast, Holy water, Neliel, Neliel Tu Oderschvank, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, porcine unidragon, Russian Imperial Stout, Scotch Ale, scotch whiskey, smoked Imperial Stout, Tia Halibel, Tia Harribel, Undead Party Crasher, Vampire Slayer | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Flight Of The Angry Beast by Clown Shoes is a 10.75% ABV American Strong Ale consisting of an Smoked Imperial Stout brewed with Holy water aged in bourbon barrels, a Scotch Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout and an English Style Barley Wine aged in Scotch. Another Cuvee of dreams!

Label:
For the fourth installment in our “Beast” series, Sir Walter Scott has finally tamed the creature, who was about to attack a group of innocent unicorns. To celebrate, we blended 1/3 Undead Party Crasher aged in bourbon barrels, 1/3 Blaecorn Unidragon aged in scotch barrels and 1/3 Billionaire aged in scotch barrels. Hooray!

==Introduction==

Another year, another incarnation of the Unidragon beast. This time, they combined the Imperial and Russian stouts with their English Style Barley wine. Each time I try these beast beers, there is always something different and unique about them. Some brews have been made specifically for certain states and are variants of the Unidragon. While I have had the opportunity to try these one offs, I am glad some really complex beasts still come about every now and again. The flight of the Angry Beast seems so cool so without further ado, let’s see what this one is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Smoked Peat, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, earthy notes, butterscotch, Scotch bourbon, whiskey bourbon, oak, Bananas, clove spice, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, figgy pudding, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, bakers chocolate, molasses, anise, mint, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconuts, macadamia nuts, pecan pie, doughnuts, oreo cookies and smokey notes.

Flavors:
Scotch bourbon, whiskey bourbon, oak, Bananas, clove spice, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, bakers chocolate, oreo cookies, smokey notes, almond joy chocolate, smoked peat, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, earthy notes, butterscotch, molasses, mint, anise, rye bread, caramelized sugars, waffle cone, marshmallows, chocolate smores, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconuts, macadamia nuts, pecan pie, doughnuts, cookie dough ice cream, hazel nut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, figgy pudding, tobacco, leather, tres leche cake, fudge chocolate cake and crème brulee.

Aftertaste:
Good mix of Scotch and Bourbon oak in the finish along with some lingering flavors of banana, dark fruit, chocolate notes, smokey notes, marshmallow, vanilla and caramel. Slight alcohol in the taste but this does not take away from the rich complexity. Dark pitch black body, smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
No surprise how every year, the Cuvee of different beers really brings about the really extreme and special of what Clown Shoes has to offer. The velvety flavors and spirits collide with a complex array of deliciousness. There is much that can be said when spirits get together like this and create an exceptional beer that, for me, tends to break the rating scale. Highly Recommended.

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

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/2276/i/2010/054/8/1/hot_battle___commission_by_toppera_tpr.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5FJtEATaK3M/VTAYgyGwShI/AAAAAAAABOk/qVd6HEd1Nts/w850-h703/Yoruichi%25252C%252520Halibel%252520%252526%252520Nel.jpg

Bananas Foster by Buffalo Bayou

January 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged banana, banana split, Bananas Foster, Buffalo Bayou, Caramel, Muv-Luv Alternative, total eclipse, Weizenbock, Yui Takamura | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Bananas Foster by Buffalo Bayou is an 8.6% ABV Weizenbock.

Label:
In a food coma induced by crawfish or steak, few things in life are as delicious and decadent as Bananas Foster slathered over a scoop of vanilla. You know that feeling when you’re so stupid full you laugh when dessert comes then stuff your face anyway? Invented in N’awlins, perfected in Houston. They put it on a plate, we put it in your glass. Drink up monkey, it’s time to go bananas.

==Introduction==

Now this, seems like a delicious Magic Potion! I received this from my friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com. This was intriguing especially since the last beer I tried from Buffalo Bayou, the Red Velvet, really did taste like Red Velvet. It was a supremely delicious beer and now with this one that is being presented to the site, I hope it turns out to be just as awesome as that one. So without further ado, let’s take a look. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Bananas, clove spice, vanilla, hazelnut, dark fruit raisins, cherries, capirotada raisin bread pudding, plums, piloncillo sugar cone, grilled banana notes, plantains, bubble gum, walnuts, Chunky Munkey ice cream, citrus, butterscotch, rum notes, milk and dark chocolate, flan, tres leches cake, banana nut bread, stone fruit peach notes and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Ridiculously rich Bananas, matured bananas, clove spice, grilled bananas, plantains, banana cream pie, dark fruit raisins, cherries, capirotada raisin bread pudding, plums, piloncillo sugar cone, cinnamon, banana liqueur, bubble gum, rye bread, banana nut bread, Nutella, dulce de leche caramel, rocky road ice cream, walnuts, pecan pie, Chunky Munkey ice cream, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, rye bread, leather, coriander, citrus, butterscotch, vanilla, brown sugar, rum hints, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bananas in chocolate, toffee, tres leches and Goat Milk caramel aged in wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with an earthy bananas, caramel, dark fruit, stone fruit, vanilla, rum hints, butterscotch, ice cream, clove spice and bubblegum. No alcohol in the taste, brown murky full body, smooth, creamy and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Talk about the ultimate banana beer experience. Holy shit, I am surprised I didn’t pass out after the first sip. This beer is the real deal!! Lots of rich banana caramel goodness with no end to the deliciousness. This beer actually inspired me to create a beer recipe of my own. It was that damn delicious and really if you love sweet malty beers, this would be super awesome. I wish we could see the beer around California but it truly is unique how certain beers will come out from different unique places of the world.

Anime Corner:
Yui Takamura from Muv Luv Total Eclipse was paired with this beer for the colors of banana, caramel and dark fruits that this beer composes of. Her sexy appeal is just as complimentary as the flavors of this beer. A true dessert of a beer with a truly eye candy and beauty of this artwork.

Sources:
http://i3.egv.cc/img/i.egv.cc/i/feti/pittiri/pittiri_suits_073.jpg

Sorry Not Sorry IPA collaboration by Stone brewing, 4 Hands brewing and Bale Breaker brewing

January 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 4 hands brewing, Bale Breaker, Collaboration Beer, IIPA, Imperial India Pale Ale, india pale ale, IPA, Peaches, Rwby, Sorry Not Sorry IPA, stone brewing co, Yang Xiao Long | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Sorry Not Sorry IPA collaboration by Stone brewing, 4 Hands brewing and Bale Breaker brewing is a 9.3% ABV Imperial India Pale Ale brewed with Peaches.

Label:
Unbashedly Unashamed of our obsession with hops

The idea for this bright and bitter beer was born during Stone Brewmaster Mitch Steele’s annual hop-selection pilgrimage to Yakima, Washington. While touring Loftus Ranches (a farm owned and operated by the same family for generations which recently expanded to Include on-property craft brewery Bale Breaker Brewing Co.), Steele felt inspired…while power-huffing hops no doubt…to suggest a brewing collaboration with Stone and our good friends from St. Louis.4 Hands Brewing Co. A powerhouse within the midwest brewing sect, 4 Hands has been on our official “awesome brewers we gotta collaborate with” list for some time. When considering the direction they’d take, it was decided that since Loftus Ranches was the first hop farm to commercially grow beloved Simcoe variety, leading with that piney, stone fruit-like hop was a must. But collaborations are about uncharted territory. Thus, the trio decided that pureed peaches hold be added to ‘up’ the fruit factor, while experimental HBC 342 and HBC 344 hops were selected to introduce notes of berries, citrus, tropical fruit and grassiness to this IPA. Yes, we made another IPA. We’ll concede that it’s not surprising. Our love of hoppy beers runs like a deeply entrenched mutherlode (yes, we meant to spell it that way) of humulus lupulus coursing through our veins. Ditto 4 Hands and Bale Breaker. So for those who’d have preferred to see us craft a milk stout, ancient ale or barrel-aged offering, that’s okay…we’ve made all of those in the past few months too. But we are who we are: an unapologetic band of hopheads psyched to explore the ever-expanding network of nooks and crannies within the IPA universe. So happy to have you join us!

“This project has been an amazing experience and we are truly grateful. Both Stone and the Bale Breaker team share our passion for the hops as well as experimentation.”
Kevin Lemp// Founder & President, 4 hands brewing co.

“We are honored to collaborate with the extremely talented and creative brewers at Stone and 4 Hands. ¡Viva la IPA!”
Kevin Smith//Head Brewer & Co-Owner, Bale Breaker Brewing Co.

“We are thrilled to join with the of the most exciting new hop-loving breweries in the country to make this unique and delicious IPA.”
Mitch Steele//Brewmaster, Stone Brewing Co.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one at my local store. Yet another IPA from Stone which is not that surprising as IPAs are a favorite of mine but also Stone brewing’s staple style. With that being said, I need to see how different this beer is in comparison to the many, many, many, MANY IPAs I have tried in the past. So with another beer out there, let’s see if they truly did mean to release another IPA variety. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apricots, mango, lychee, kumquats, Floral, grassy, herbal, citrucy, oniony, dank grapefruit and earthy hop notes, Blue Basil, Italian herbs, oregano, weed, mint greens, yerba Buena, coriander spice, mint, tropical fruit notes of kiwi, papaya, pineapple, honey and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Herbal, floral, citrus, grapefruit, garlicky, oniony, dank, earthy notes and a grassy hops, Rich Stone fruits like apricots, peaches, mango, lychee tart kumquats, orange peel, grapefruit peel, lemon peel, Blue Basil, Italian herbs, oregano, weed, mint greens, yerba buena, chamomile, coriander, tropical fruit pineapple, kiwi, dragon fruit, strawberry, honey, biscuit bread and gummy bears.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a stone fruit sweetness, honey, with a variety herbal and spicy hop goodness. No alcohol in the taste, Golden honey clear color, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouth feel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good IPA that focuses on the more herbal and dank side of hops rather than the tropical. It is still a massive hop bite and punch for those that are hop head purist. While the peaches are apparent more as the beer warms up, the hop varieties are certainly a bit different giving a more of a various type of complex herbal hop aspect and it is what really drives the beer.

Anime Corner:
Yang Xiao Long from RWBY was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the beer but also the whole theme of not giving a damn about ones actions. A real thug. Essentially, this paired perfectly to me since in Episode 6 or RWBY Volume 3, she was attacked by her opponent after a match she had in a tournament. She ended up breaking the dude’s leg but in her defense it was self-defense. What the audience saw though was that she attacked the guy for no reason. So she was kicked out. The truth is it was all an illusion in her mind from the guy’s partner which manipulates the senses. Either way, while she may be sorry for what happened, she is not sorry since she knows the dude attacked her but the audience was manipulated to see her attacking for no reason. Bad Ass!

Sources:
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/801/012/3ab.jpg
http://konachan.com/sample/7e7fe3cffc094920a21659e99b596762/Konachan.com%20-%20187341%20sample.jpg

Sweep The Leg (Karate Kid Beer) by Infamous brewing

January 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Stout, chocolate peanut butter, Cobra Kai, Infamous Brewing, Karate Kid, Karate Kid Beer, peanut butter, Ranma, Ranma 1/2, Shampoo, Sweep The Leg, Xian pu | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Sweep The Leg (Karate Kid Beer) by Infamous brewing is an 8% ABV American Stout brewed with Peanut Butter.

Label:
Cobra Kai

Peanut butter & Chocolate are a match made in heaven. Sweep The leg has roasted peanut nose and a subtle but noticeable peanut butter finish. Strike First. Strike Hard. No Mercy!!

Commercial Description:
“Sweep the Leg” Peanut Butter Stout is based on an American Stout with the unique addition of peanut butter. The peanut butter is added during the fermentation process for maximum flavor. The beer has a roasted peanut butter nose, smooth body, light hop profile and a noticeable but subtle peanut butter finish.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one through one of the many awesome trades with my friend Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com. This is indeed, the Karate Kid beer. For many that do not know about the original 1980’s classic, Cobra Kai was the dojo for martial arts where the antagonist sensei John Kreese was the master. He taught his student Johnny Lawrence to “sweep the leg” of the protagonist Daniel LaRusso during the match near the end of the movie which caused Daniel to almost lose the match, was it not for Mr. Miagi’s awesome healing. Anyways, this tribute is for the dojo and the movie and seeing as it is one of a kind, I am glad I was able to get this to the site thanks to my friend Aaron. Much awesomeness! Cheers a many!

Aromas:
Rich roasty notes of barley, coffee, Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Irish cream, mocha coffee, espresso, nutter butter cookies, dark fruit notes of raisins, cherries currants, vanilla, pecan pie, hazelnut chocolate mousse, peanut butter and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, roasted barley, peanut butter, peanut brittle, earthy hop notes, chocolate mousse, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherry, vanilla, molasses, roasted peanuts, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar hints, walnuts, pralines, caramel, butterscotch hints, Irish cream, mocha coffee, espresso, nutter butter cookies and lactose milk sugar sweetness.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with a nutty unsweetened peanut butter flavor, dark fruit, dark chocolate, earthy hop and roasted barley bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and an easy to moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
A very good beer displaying more characteristics of actual peanut butter than natural peanut butter flavorings like some of the other beers I have had. Basically more of a peanut and nuttiness which is very pleasant for those that do not like absolute sweetness in their beers. It reminded me of my home brew as I did actually add the dry peanut butter in the primary fermentation as they did as well so the outcome is great. I am glad I did something right and this beer proves it. An awesome beer especially if you love peanut butter beers but also Karate Kid.

Anime Corner:
Ranma Saotome and Shampoo from Ranma ½ were used in this pairing to pair with the colors of the label, martial arts and sweep the leg as you can see Ranma do so in the artwork. In this case however, Shampoo, the hot Amazonian with the blue hair is the antagonist in this case where as Ranma is the protagonist. Interesting how it is the opposite of the movie. However, in recent film theory, there is information showing that Daniel was the true antagonist. Check this video out to see what I mean

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_Gz_iTuRMM

Sources:
http://orig10.deviantart.net/9e8f/f/2009/104/6/0/ranko___ducked_by_leeyiankun.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2015-02-04-708551.png
http://img.chikubeam.com/images/2015/10/21/china-151021-04.jpg

Wasted Sea Star Purple Pale Ale by Rogue brewing

January 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Ale, APA, Fate Stay Night, purple corn, Purple Pale Ale, Rider, rogue brewing, Servant Rider, Wasted Sea Star | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

Wasted Sea Star Purple Pale Ale by Rogue brewing is a 5.7% ABV American Pale Ale brewed with purple corn.

Label:
Dedicated to Dr. Bruce Menge and his Students

Sea stars on the west coast are rapidly dying from a mysterious disease called sea star wasting syndrome. It causes lesions, arm loss, and eventually can turn stars into goo. This is one of the largest marine animal disease events in recording history. Purchasing this beer will help to fund the research of this disease through the partnership for interdisciplinary studies of coastal oceans at Oregon State University.

Rogue Wasted Sea Star Purple Pale Ale is made with purple corn, giving it a slight purple color. Sweet up front with a smooth hop finish.

9 Ingredients: 2-row, Dextrapils, Rogue Farms Dare and Risk Malts; Liberty and Alluvial hops; Purple Corn Nector (Non-GMO), fre range coastal water and Pacman Yeast.

15° Plato / 5.7% ABV / 40 IBU / 76 AA / 15° L
==Introduction==

I obtained this one at the Rogue online store buy.rogue.com along with the Mango Astronaut. I was intrigued by the ingredients and the color of the beer but also the fact that purchasing this was going to a good cause. Save Marine wild life and enjoy some beer, you can’t beat that! With that being said, a beer made from purple corn is intriguing to me. Yeah, corn is just an adjunct added to many lagers but organic purple corn, well, this may seem like something different, or atleast I would like to think. So let’s see what this beer is about.

Aromas:
Caramel, pilsner malt, cereal grains, honey hints grapes, rye bread, dark fruit notes, piloncillo sugar cone, citrus, grapefruit, floral, herbal and grassy hops hints and berry notes.

Flavors:
Honey, grapes, cereal grain, corn adjunct, caramel, grape marmalade, rye bread, butterscotch, dark fruit raisins, plums, blackberries, taro ice cream, ube bread, sweet potato, piloncillo sugar cone, citrus, grapefruit, floral, herbal and grassy hops, brown sugar, cinnamon, and blackberry cobbler.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with a bit of malty, grainy and dark fruit sweetness. No alcohol in the taste, mainly amber colored with a purple tinge clear body, smooth, creamy and refreshing mouthfeel and is very easy to drink.

Overall:
A pretty good ale with a good amount of crisp and refreshing flavors. It does have some complexity to it and body but at the same time it has some flavors you would find in a nice lager. It does not seem to fall in the category of hoppy pale ale but more of malty yet crisp ale. It was decent and worth the try for sure if you can find it but nothing too extravagant. Sure it did have some notes that I really like, like the purple ube.

Anime Corner:
Rider from Fatestay Night was used in this pairing as I wanted a good representative for the overall purple theme of the beer. Sea Stars are near color blind and some believe have no sight at all. Regardless of what may be true, using Rider with the eye cover helps show case this. Her being purple and in the water also adds to the complement of the beer artwork and theme.

Sources:
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1jDIKyxula4/UvTKGvOxXQI/AAAAAAAAAYU/ZAYobBNUQ2w/w1098-h1600/404590.jpg
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Fate-(series)-Fatestay-night-Rider-(Fatestay-night)-1918941.jpeg

Light Speed by Toppling Goliath brewing

January 18, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Ale, Decorah Iowa, Falconer's Flight, han solo, Jaba the Hut, Light Speed, Metroid, Millennium Falcon, Nintendo, Princess Leia, Samus Aran, Toppling Goliath brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.95/5

Light Speed by Toppling Goliath brewing of Decorah Iowa is a 5.8% ABV American Pale Ale.

Label:
Made with Millennium and Falconer’s Flight Hops

This seasonal pale ale was crafted with a perfect mixture of Millennium hops and Falconer’s Flight blend. Inviting orange aroma and hints of lemon flavor in this medium-bodied beauty will make you want to drink yours at light speed!

==Introduction==

Previously known as Millennium Falcon, this beer screams sci-fi and star wars! Obtained this one while I was on my trip to Iowa on October 2015. When visiting Iowa, I wanted to bring a couple of beers with me for the site but seeing as I could not due to the fact that it could of cost me extra for the plane ride and I couldn’t risk them being damaged, my friend Steve was able to send me a package with these. This would technically be the last one on the box but would it be the best? Well, it is Toppling goliath and the previous Pale Ale I tried was ridiculously awesome. Let’s see what this one has to offer.

Aromas:
Lemon Candy, tropical fruit mango, papaya, kiwi, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, raspberry, strawberry, Citrus, herbal, piney, grapefruit and grassy hops, Stone fruit peach, apricot, lychee, cherries, blue berries, orange peel, lemon peel, starburst and gummy bear hints.

Flavors:
Citrus, herbal, piney, grapefruit and grassy hops, orange peel, lemon peel, starburst, pepper corn, lemon candy, tropical fruit barrage of mango, papaya, kiwi, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, raspberry, strawberry, biscuit bread, Stone fruit peach, apricot, lychee, cherries, blue berries, Danish cream, green tea ice cream and gummy bears.

Aftertaste:
Lots of tropical fruit, stone fruit to the finish with some biscuit bread sweetness, herbal, grassy and grapefruit hop bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy Golden body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel with very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious Pale Ale. Might not be as extravagant as Pseudo Sue, but this is still very delicious. I think this one was more on the grassy herbal forward side than the sweeter tropical fruit side although the flavors of stone fruit and tropical fruits were there. Pseudo Sue did have more tropics forward and I enjoy that better, just my preference. Either way, a definite recommend for Starwars/Scifi and/or Hop fans.

Anime Corner:
Samus Aran from Nintendo’s Metroid series, Jaba the Hut and an original artwork were used in this pairing as I felt it was good to use with some Sci-Fi characters, especially star wars. The Millennium Falcon name was homage and so that is why I got Samus to be Leia in this pairing. The original character was used as well since I wanted to pair with the colors of the label. Overall, I thought it be nice to do a tribute.

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/5974/i/2015/306/4/1/samus_undercover_mission_by_karosu_maker-d9fb3cg.jpg
https://cdn0.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/000/177/176/small/zhenya-chung-syncmax-1.jpg?1408792660

Pseudo Sue by Toppling Goliath brewing

January 18, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Ale, APA, Black Rock Shooter, Decorah Iowa, Dragon Slayer, Pseudo Sue, Toppling Goliath brewing, world class beers | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.5/6

Pseudo Sue by Toppling Goliath brewing of Decorah Iowa is a 5.8% ABV World Class American Pale Ale.

Label:
This single hop ale showcases the Citra hop or a well-balanced beer that is delicate in body with a mild bitterness in the finish. Ferocious aromas of citrus and mango give way to pseudo Sue’s unique and refreshing taste that is clean and bright with just enough bite!

==Introduction==

A beer worth a crazy mission. My friend Steve from Iowa was able to send me this one after our journey across the endless farmlands in my second home away from home, Iowa. Visiting Iowa State University Ames Iowa, my Alma Mater, I was able to find this one readily available but limited. They had advised this one had just arrived but it was hard to get and would be very limited. I was all over this one. Knowing Toppling Goliath is one of Iowa’s best Micro Breweries and me wanting to go there or at the very least try their beer, I had to get this one to the site. Since I wanted to get different ones, I was only able to bring a bottle to the site as me and my friend had to finish the rest of them. I hope to get more in the future.

Aromas:
Orange zest, orange peel, tangerine, green tea ice cream, gummy bears, tangerine spread on biscuit bread, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, lychee fruit, crab apples, grapes, cherries, raspberries, tropical fruits, mango, papaya, guava, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pears, strawberries, Starburst candy, lemon candy and sweetened condensed milk.

Flavors:
Rich tropical fruits, mango, papaya, guava, honey dew melon, dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pears, strawberries, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, lychee fruit, crab apples, grapes, cherries, raspberries, Oranges, orange peel, tangerine, Grapefruit, rich citrusy, herbal, floral, grassy and dank hops, sweetened condensed milk, green tea ice cream, gummy bears, tangerine spread on biscuit bread, Starburst candy, lemon candy, mango cheese cake and kumquats.

Aftertaste:
Rich tropical fruit, stone fruit, vanilla, biscuit bread, dank herbal, rich citrusy hops and orange zest, and sweet fruit juices. No alcohol in the taste, Clear golden honey body, smooth, rich, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with being ridiculously easy to drink.

Overall:
Hands down, one of the best Pale Ales ever, right next to Zombie Dust. For being so light, and yet so damn hop complex, they were able to get a ridiculous amount for tropical forward flavors from this beer proving that even the basic American Pale Ales can take on even the toughest and strongest of IPAs. This beer is ingenious. They say the king Sue is even more ridiculous to find and is bigger than this? I can honestly say that this can even go up against my favorite IPA, Power Plant but the thing is they are different styles. This is a highly recommended one for sure!

Anime Corner:
Dragon Slayer from Black Rock Shooter was used in this pairing as I mainly wanted to pair with the T-Rex in the label. I found this one and definitely looked so bad ass. So bad ass like the way this beer is super bad ass. End of story…

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Dragon.Slayer.full.553344.jpg

Salted Caramel Brownie collaboration by New Belgium + Ben&Jerry’s Ice Cream

January 18, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Brown ale, Ben&Jerry's Ice Cream, Collaboration Beer, new belgium brewing, Salted Caramel Brownie, Silveria Princess | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Salted Caramel Brownie collaboration by New Belgium + Ben&Jerry’s Ice Cream is a 6.25% ABV American Brown Ale.

Label:
When two B Corps come together, delicious ideas are created. Our mutual dedication to using business as a force for good means you get to enjoy this brown ale laden with chocolaty, salted-caramel, vanilla goodness while helping Protect Our Winters combat climate change. Dig in!

==Introduction==

Who was always there after those College drinking sessions back in the day when I needed something for the munchy cure, Ben&Jerry’s! Yes, as far back as I remember, Ben&Jerry’s Ice Cream has always made some very delicious flavors ice cream that are not typical. Almost as if, they were the craft ice cream makers of the ice cream industry. My favorite from them is the Chunky Munky which is one of my all-time favorites. So with this release, I really am intrigued to see how close to ice cream did they get.

Aromas:
Caramel, bananas, hazelnut nectar, rocky road ice cream, earthy notes, anise, mocha hints, brown sugar, dark fruit raisins, walnuts and almond joy.

Flavors:
Chocolate Fudge brownies, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, hazelnut nectar, rocky road ice cream, walnuts, almonds, marshmallow, cookie dough ice cream, rye bread, salted caramel, tres leches cake, pecan pie, earthy notes, anise, mocha hints, coconut hints, oatmeal cookies, brown sugar and dark fruit raisins.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with some dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, earthy notes, dark fruit and fudge brownie hints. No alcohol in the taste, dark brown and crimson clear body, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and very easy to drink.

Overall:
I have to say it. This is very delicious since it tastes just like ice cream. Whatever they were going for really hit the spot. Especially as the beer gets closer to room temperature, it becomes a very nice dessert in a bottle. Good thing they sell this one in a pack of 6 pack. While maybe not as rich and complex as the Neopolitan Bourbon Stout this one would pair great with some Ben and Jerry’s Ice cream I’m sure.

Anime Corner:
Original character Silveria Princess by Nicca ofDeviantart.com was used in this pairing as I mainly wanted to use a character with ice cream but could also pair with some of the colors of the label.

Sources:
http://img14.deviantart.net/f008/i/2014/221/5/8/silveria_princess_by_nicca-d7uig16.jpg

Muis by Phantom Carriage

January 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Belgian Blonde, Blood Borne, Brettanomyces, Eileen the Crow, Love Live!, Muis, Oud Muis, Phantom Carriage, Toujou Nozomi | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Muis by Phantom Carriage is a 6.7% ABV Wild Belgian Blonde fermented with 100% Brettanomyces

Label:
Limited Release
Batch No: 1 Bottled On: 9/2015
Tropical and Citrus Fruits dominate the palate with hints of herbal hops and a dry finish ages well. Cellating over time results in enhanced earthiness and ripe fruit.

==Introduction==

The second bottle from their initial release to the public, and one of my favorites from Phantom Carriage is here. Once they have the capacity, we will see more lead the way for the public to enjoy. This initial release was one that I wanted to bring to the site to get an idea of what Phantom Carriage is all about, especially, if you visit them in Carson, California. Phantom’s theme of the brewery is like Halloween all year long and even the names of their beers are in reference to Swedish silent scary movies or celebrities. Muis or mouse in dutch is on of the flagship beers at Phantom Carriage. My first experience with this beer was the Oud Muis which was this one but aged in oak barrels. It was my favorite when they first opened late 2014 / early 2015. The original I did not mind but this one from the bottle is my attempt to see how this on is in comparison to the Oud Muis and when I had it the first time. Let’s take a look…

Aromas:
Rich Stone fruit peaches, apricots, Rich Brettanomyces, phenolic notes, banana, clove spice, grapes, funky farm house hay, peppercorns, coriander spice, honey, tropical fruits, oaky notes, floral hop notes, lemon candy, hibiscus, grapes, tropical fruit pineapple, passion fruit and citrus oranges.

Flavors:
Rich Brettanomyces, phenolic notes, banana, clove spice, funky farmhouse hay, oranges, lemon peel, stone fruit peaches apricots, mango hints, tropical fruit pineapple, passion fruit, honey dew melon, waffle cone, honey, peppercorns, floral hop notes, lemon candy, oak, raw as the sun mature oranges, hibiscus, grapes, chardonnay notes, raspberries, coriander spice and honeycombs.

Aftertaste:
Finishes mildly dry with bretty notes, stone fruit, tropical fruit, farmhoue hay and peppercorns. No alcohol in the taste, pale to straw, light to medium body, crisp, smooth, rich and refreshing mouth feel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
To me, this is a great example of what the delicious bretty beers are. Reminding me of White Oak from the Bruery but mainly White Sap or even the Eschatological “As Follows” from Stillwater Artisanal. Phantom Carriage is off to an amazing start bringing delicious to the public soon. While their focus is farmhouse and wild ales, many lovers of these styles will love them. Especially those that love the occult. I highly recommend you give this one a shot. Now, if they can get me a bottle made of their Sour Belgian Quadruple, sign me up!

Anime Corner:
Eileen the Crow from Blood Borne and Toujou Nozomi from Love Live! were chosen on this beer to represent the Crow Masked Plague Doctor of the label. Easy enough but still difficult to find some characters that would fit the bill. Plague Doctors like Eileen are the ones trying to help with curing the plague which are given by what? The Muis or Mice but mainly, the Rats in the medieval times. Funky farms where the rats keep warm. Stay warm with this beer!

Sources:
http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/fairytailfanon/images/5/5c/Crow2.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20151025162654
http://static.zerochan.net/Toujou.Nozomi.full.1934541.jpg
http://41.media.tumblr.com/1aafe3d34053a6326d1f4ea29e2c826a/tumblr_nnvuqi4MLQ1tf5pxao1_500.jpg

Voodoo Doughnut Mango Astronaut Ale by Rogue Brewing

January 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ciel, Fruit Beer, mango, Mango Astronaut Ale, Mangoes, Megaman Zero, rogue brewing, Voodoo Doughnut, Voodoo Doughnut Mango Astronaut | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Voodoo Doughnut Mango Astronaut Ale by Rogue Brewing is a 5.3% ABV Fruit Ale brewed with mango.

Label:
Dedicated to Tres & Cat Daddy, The Rogues of Voodoo Doughnut

The Collision of Crazies continues by combining the two best inventions on planet earth: beer and doughnuts. This ale was inspired by the Voodoo Mango Tango doughnut and handcrafted at the Rogue Ales Brewery in Newport, Oregon, by Brewmaster John Maier.

Food Pairing: Desert, Doughnuts

Specs:

113.5° PLATO

20 IBU

71 AA

15 ° Lovibond

==Introduction==

Inspired by the Mango Tango doughnut, this brew is essentially a mango orange beer. This is interesting as some of the Voodoo series have been a hit or miss. My favorite ones to date are the Raspberry Chocolate, peanut butter banana and the lemon Crueller one. Now with this one being an orange and mango beer, I am intrigued to see how this turns out. Lets take a look and see where this one goes Cheers!

Aromas:
Crisp grain, Mango, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, lychee, tropical fruits like kiwi, passion fruit, guava, dragon fruit, prickly pear, lemon peel, toffee, coriander spice, banana notes, orange and mango tang, cane sugar and honey notes.

Flavors:
Lots of Stone fruit, Mango, apricot, lychee, peaches, Tropical fruit guava, papaya, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pear, honey dew melon, pineapple, biscuit bread, strawberries, cherries, Tangerines, mango candies, lemon peel, toffee, coriander spice, banana notes, brown sugar and honey notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with lingering stone fruits and mango sweetness. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink, golden to honey clear body and a crisp, refreshing and rich mouthfeel.

Overall:
A very good beer but not very complex. The mango they were going for is definitely there but it is like a candied mango. Also, the beer is more on the sweeter side hence the variety of take away fruitiness. Although, the focus seems very mango heavy rather than leading way to other characters the beer may have and only notes them as the temperature changes. I still think it is worth a try but some of their other beers a better than this one for sure.

Anime Corner:
Ciel from Megaman Zero was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair mainly with the colors but also with the astronaut. Since Ciel is the color of mangoes and pairs well with the beer, I figured she would work the best. Wearing Zero’s suit, she can definitely withstand the harsh environment of space like Zero can in some of the space missions he has to take on near the end of some of the games. She would be the Mango Astronaut.

Sources:
http://i475.photobucket.com/albums/rr119/shadow-hunter-2192/14836178_big_p4.jpg~original
http://static.zerochan.net/Rockman.Zero.full.463230.jpg

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ale (O.R.C.A) by Aftershock brewing

January 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Aftershock brewing, Belgian Blonde, O.R.C.A, oatmeal cookies, oatmeal raisin, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ale, Oatmeal raisin cookies, ORCA, Specialty Grain Ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ale (O.R.C.A) by Aftershock brewing is a 5.5% ABV Belgian Blonde Ale brewed with specialty grains.

Label:
This beer is one of it’s kind. Some people claim we’ve found a way to liquefy cookies. They can believe what they want. We say we’ve discovered how to make a beer that gets you reminiscing about days at grandma’s house, while still enjoying a fantastic brew. Specialty ales come, and specialty ales go; here’s one we think will remain as timeless as the cookie we all love.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one at www.craftshack.com. I could not find this in the places I looked locally so after being persuaded as to how tempting this beer looked, I decided to get it and bring it to the site. Even the description was very impressive that I really wanted to see if they really did manage to get the cookies in the beer’s flavors. There are many brewers who do you use actual cookies, doughnuts and even Chocolate Cereal as a steeping grain into their brews. For this one, it is a mystery but not today. Today we will see what this one is all about! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich cookie notes, piloncillo sugar cone, cinnamon, Ginger bread, bananas, milk sugar, caramel, vanilla, allspice, maple syrup, dark fruit notes, pumpkin hints, crème brulee, cookie dough ice cream, carrot cake, anise, brown sugar and clove spice.

Flavors:
Cinnamon, Ginger snaps, ginger cookies, oatmeal cookies, dark fruit raisins, milk sugar, caramel, allspice, vanilla, pumpkin pie notes, bananas, anise, clove spice, coriander, citrus, butterscotch, biscuit bread, cinnamon roll, maple hints, sugar frosting hints, cane sugar, cookie dough ice cream, carrot cake and crème brulee.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lots of malty, sugary, cinnamon and spicy cookie goodness along with some buttery notes. No alcohol in the taste, Amber clear to hazy body, smooth, creamy, and buttery mouthfeel along with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Cookies, Cookies everywhere! God knows what they did and how they did it. They really somehow got the rich flavors of cookies into the beer. Not sure what was in the specialty grains but a perfect example of cookies galore. I am glad I was able to save some for my friend but I feel like I would get this one again for sure. Heck, for this being my first Aftershock beer, I wonder what else they got to offer. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Snow Elf by RoninDude of Deviant art and an original cookie eating demon girl were used in this pairing as I felt colors of the label really complemented the color of the art works but also the fact that they are either eating cookies or drinking hot chocolate next to the cookies and the cookie beer was the best pairing. Perfect beer for this winter for sure.

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/54fa/i/2015/192/3/9/a_warm_reprieve_by_ronindude-d90x62e.png
https://cpimages.s3.amazonaws.com/system/samples/work/sample/79505/ext_large_______03.jpg

Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore)

Monthly Archives: January 2016

Moses and the Misfits (a.k.a Whammy Bar) by Clown Shoes brewing

Gulden Draak The Brewmaster’s Edition by Brouwerij Van Steengerge

2015 Oude Tart with Boysenberries by the Bruery Terreux

2016 Preservation Series Humulus Triple by The Bruery

2015 Barrel Aged Series Yeti Imperial Stout by Great Divide

Amber Smashed Face Colaboration by Cannibal Corpse and Three Floyds

Persius’ Spiraling Lament by Nubis Sanctum Ales

Six Suits A-Hangin’ by Karl Strauss

The Commodore by Ballast Point

Nocturnal Nectar by Freetail brewing

Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter by (512) brewing

Josh the Revelator by Clown Shoes brewing

Super Bad by Gigantic brewing

Funky Kingston by (512) brewing

Stochasticity Project Grainiac (aka Colon Blow) by Stone brewing

Lizard King by Pipeworks

Passionate Dragon collaboration by Bottle Logic and Arizona Wilderness brewing

20th Anniversary Higher Math by Dogfish Head

Beer #88 Ginormous by Gigantic brewing

Firestone XIX Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

2015 Fort by Dogfish Head

Barrel Aged Neapolitan Milk Stout by Saugatuck brewing

Limited Edition Shock Top Spiced Banana by Anheuser-Busch

Steve Austin’s Broken Skull IPA by El Segundo brewing

Despertado en Manzanilla by Freetail brewing

I’ll Be Your BasilBerry by Five Stones brewing

Peach Bexarliner by Freetail Brewing

Komorebi by Freetail brewing

Flight Of The Angry Beast by Clown Shoes

Bananas Foster by Buffalo Bayou

Sorry Not Sorry IPA collaboration by Stone brewing, 4 Hands brewing and Bale Breaker brewing

Sweep The Leg (Karate Kid Beer) by Infamous brewing

Wasted Sea Star Purple Pale Ale by Rogue brewing

Light Speed by Toppling Goliath brewing

Pseudo Sue by Toppling Goliath brewing

Salted Caramel Brownie collaboration by New Belgium + Ben&Jerry’s Ice Cream

Muis by Phantom Carriage

Voodoo Doughnut Mango Astronaut Ale by Rogue Brewing