Monthly Archives: June 2016

2016 Bastard’s Midnight Brunch by Stone Brewing

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13584949_10103362840737170_493755693674766997_o 13537731_10103362840767110_6981083144752372743_n 13580555_10103362840722200_2556315072869324053_oRating: 7/7

2016 Bastard’s Midnight Brunch by Stone Brewing is a 12.7% ABV American Strong Ale consisting of Depth-Charged Double Bastard aged in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels & Northeast Ohio Maple Syrup Barrels.

Label:

BASTARD’S MIDNIGHT BRUNCH

DEPTH-CHARGED DOUBLE BASTARD ALE AGED IN BOURBON BARRELS & MAPLE SYRUP BARRELS

AN UNRESTRAINED, COFFEE-FUELED FEAST

Evenings trying to forget the crushing mediocrity of one’s life are typically the main driver to late-night breakfast plates at unforgivingly overlit diners stacked with industrialized, frozen-dumped-in-a-fryer “food.” An interlude between sophomoric late-night antics, questionable decisions and inevitable morning regret. That’s not how I play it. For those who know how to grab life by the horns*, however, this bottle pairs even better with accomplishment, life lived out loud, and well-timed moves that often appear as luck to those not paying attention. A specifically designed midnight brunch feast with like-minded folks who not only have their wits about them but actually have wits, and an artfully prepared feast sets the more appropriate stage for this beer. The bottle is worth a special occasion. Create yours to accompany it.

*Touch mine, though, and I’ll provide you with the deepest possible understanding of the word “regret.”

Drawn Off Unfiltered

Aged in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels & Northeast Ohio Maple Syrup Barrels

==Introduction==

After several temptations, I decided to pick this up. At first, I did not want to get it since it was pricey but also since I felt that I have had plenty of good Arrogant Bastard variant reviews in. So when saw it was the barrel aged version of Depth Charged Double Bastard with maple, I fought myself and my wallet was hurt. Either way, I would like to see if this brew was well worth the price. Arrogant bastard has always been one of the best beers I have had since the beginning. Since the time I have had Double Bastard, stuff just started to grow from there and things never went back. I love everything about the series. I just haven’t had a chance to keep up with all my reviews. However, when Depth Charged kicked in, I was in love. Now with this in my possession, I can only hope that it will grow from here. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:

Dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, maple syrup, vanilla, butterscotch, toffee, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, Kahlua Liqueur, citrus notes, grapefruit, piney and grassy hop notes, toasted rye bread, dark fruit raisins, dates, figs, dark cherries, blackberries, roasted barley, flan, caramelized dragon fruit, hazelnut nectar, crème brulee, old oranges, mild chili pepper notes, coffee cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, chocolate mousse, fancy coffee, roasted coffee, espresso, mocha and cinnamon hints.

Flavors:

Rich maple syrup, butterscotch, vanilla, toffee, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, chocolate mousse, fancy coffee, roasted coffee, espresso, mocha, java, jamoca, Kahlua Liqueur, rich citrus, grapefruit, piney, grassy, foresty, herbal and earthy hops, tropical fruit mango, Rich toasted rye bread with mixed dark fruit preserves such as raisins, dates, figs, dark cherries, blackberries, roasted barley, flan, sweetened condensed milk, English Fig Pudding, roasted chestnuts, pine cones, cinnamon, sweet potato pie, tangerine marmalade, brown sugar, acorns, tobacco, leather, sourdough bread, caramelized dragon fruit, hazelnut nectar, crème brulee, old oranges, mild chili pepper notes, coffee cake and bacon hints.

Aftertaste:

Finishing off with toasted coconut, coffee, orange, grapefruit and earthy hops, maple syrup, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, mocha, coffee cake, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche and toffee. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Golden brown honey and Deep Crimson colored medium body, syrupy, silky, smooth, chewy, and velvety mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:

Supreme of Supremes, bucket lister of the Bastards. I was wrong, I was damn wrong for not picking this up way sooner. I am actually ashamed since I would have missed a great opportunity at such a great beer. It was so delicious in my opinion that I will do my damnest to make this one as a home brew as soon as I figure out a recipe for it. For now, if you loved the bastard for the years, you will definitely love this one.

Anime Corner:

Etna from Disgaea was used in this pairing since I always choose a character that corresponds with the characteristics of the Stone gargoyle like Lilith or Morrigan and even Asmodeus. It has been a long time and this time, I bring Etna into the mix. Her colors were always perfect for Arrogant Bastard pairings and her character has always been somewhat arrogant so it fit perfectly. Unlike the other characters, to better fit the sweet complexity of the beer, Etna’s characteristic of being caring at times and always cute fit those aspects.

Sources:
https://forum.touki.ru/gallery/66/c3fe2b73a977.jpg
http://img07.deviantart.net/5501/i/2014/049/7/b/etna_by_ku_on-d770edz.jpg
http://img05.deviantart.net/7771/i/2016/077/c/d/fanart___etna_by_caltea-d9vku2x.jpg

Milton’s Madness I Said NO Salt! By B. Nektar Meadery

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13568766_10103362746635750_988108386605052597_o 13528474_10103362746625770_5415171111217718551_o 13507084_10103362746550920_7508455027015579365_nRating: 6/6* Mead Rating

Milton’s Madness I Said NO Salt! By B. Nektar Meadery is a 14% Agave Mead/Melomel made with Lime Juice, Lime Zest & Orange Zest

Label:
Hello, B. Nektar fans, what’s happening? Did you see the memo about the margarita-style wine cocktail? You see we’re putting this bottle out in the market, so if you could just go ahead and buy one, that would be great. Mmkay? oh, and uh, if some no-talent ass clown asks you if you have a case of the Mondays, don’t set the building on fire. Fix the glitch and avoid confrontation whenever possible. Terrific, thanks.

Damn it feels good to B. Nektar.

==Introduction==
Office Space is an awesome movie. Some beers have come out in the past to theme with the movie. But this is the first time I see a mead, and damn, what a mead! One made with the intension of being close to a margarita as possible. Well, it is more of a melomel as the mead did ferment with Agave and fruit. I think the fact that since this is to pay tribute to Milton and his stapler, it really made me want to get it. It is a pricey mead but I do crazy things sometimes for the site and the fans that read my reviews. Appreciation before purchase is pretty important to the consumer base. So let’s see how this one goes, Salud!

Aromas:
Rich Agave, lemons, limes, honey, Key Lime Pie, Margarita notes, tequila, wild flower honey, dragon fruit, guava, mango hints, stone fruit peach, white wine, green grapes, red grapes, oranges, tangerines, kumquats, lychees, passion fruit hints, mint, salty tejuino hints, cherries, plum, raspberries and lechugilla Agave juice.

Flavors:
Rich Key Lime Pie, Agave, Tequila, Margarita, Rich Honey, apples, lechugilla Agave juice, salty hints, wine grapes, stone fruit peach, white wine, green grapes, red grapes, oranges, tangerines, kumquats, lychees, passion fruit hints, mint, lemons, dark fruit cherry, plum, raspberry hints, white grapes, concorde grapes, mezcal notes, vanilla, wild flower honey, dragon fruit, guava, mango hints, kiwi, honey dew melon, sour apple, lemon and lime candies, whip cream and lemon merengue pie.

Aftertaste:
Finished with rich Key lime pie flavors lingering with rich lechugilla agave nectar juice, salty hints, oranges, stone fruit, dark fruit notes and tropical fruit hints. Slightly boozy in the aftertaste but not detracting from the flavors despite the ABV, Super Clear Pale lemon and lime green color body, smooth, refreshing and syrupy mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Taste just like a margarita if was blasted into the wine category with pure lime and agave goodness. What really takes this mead or melomel to the top is its very rich flavors. It is almost like a Margarita, without the salt ofcourse. While it does have some fruity complexity, the intention and the theme is what really drives it home. This and the fact that it is a pure Agave mead also sets it perfectly in the style of what they were going for. I highly recommend it and if you can get this goodness on tap, the better!

Anime Corner:
Midori from Space Patrol Luluco was used in this pairing to mainly go with the colors of the beer. Mainly Green as Midori is Japanese for Green. However, the sour and sweet like demeanor of Midori is pretty unique in the show and fitting in for the stubborn and whiney Milton was perfect to go with the overall pairing. The fact that I found some of the perfect beach pictures further enhances the eye candy to make it a great pairing.

Sources:
https://data.desustorage.org/a/image/1461/00/1461001964005.png
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Uchuu-Patrol-Luluco-Midori-(Uchuu-Patrol-Luluco)-3122833.jpeg
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/Uchuu-Patrol-Luluco-Midori-(Uchuu-Patrol-Luluco)-murakami-hisashi-Anime-3064134.jpeg

Umami Monster by Garage Project of New Zealand

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13559085_10103362744245540_4147736811326632652_o 13528573_10103362744330370_6467276501418054591_o 13528422_10103362744215600_5564032141702915854_oRating: 5/5

Umami Monster by Garage Project of New Zealand is a 9% ABV Herbed/ Spice Brown Ale brewed with Kelp, Bonito and Seawater.

Label:
It came from the deep. Brewed for GABS 2014, using New Zealand grown Kombu (kelp), Japanese Katsuobushi (dried fermented bonito flakes), smoked malt and seawater in an attempt to capture that most elusive and enigmatic of flavours – umami. Far beyond the boundaries of the accepted and expected, these ingredients combine to create a monster of dark savoury smoke and rich umami complexity. Dear God – what have we created? Definitely not suitable for vegans – sorry.

About Garage Project
We’re a small craft brewery located in an old petrol
station in Wellington, New Zealand. We like pushing
boundaries, reinterpreting styles and challenging
the notions of what craft beer can be. We’re here to
try something new. Just like you.

==Introduction==

I obtained this brew along with some other brews I got from Craftshack.com. When I saw the label on this one I was like oh shit! I had to get it. Being a huge fan of the King of Monsters, Godzilla! I looked into it further. Being made with actual fish flakes, sea water and kelp, it was definitely the sea monster themed beer that I would have never thought would exist. Therefore, to take my chances at the beer and see how these ingredients would work with a beer I brought it to the site. Now as we take on this monster let’s see what we can find, cheers!

Aromas:
Chocolate, anise, soy sauce, molasses, dark fruit raisins, cherries, plums, plum sauce, campfire smoked malts, earthy notes, rich rye bread, citrus oranges, tangerine gummies, Seaweed paper, sushi notes, fish hints, coffee, caramel, vanilla, sea salt chocolate, tamarind and herbs.

Flavors:
Seaweed paper, sushi notes, fish notes, oregano, basil, caramel, Edamame green beans, toffee, coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sea salt chocolate, salty tejuino maize drink, tamarind, dark fruit raisins, cherries, soy sauce, molasses, anise, maple syrup, ginger spice, garlicky notes, cinnamon, coriander spice, cumin, clove spice, campfire smoked malts, earthy notes, rich rye bread, citrus oranges, tangerine gummies and butterscotch.

Aftertaste:
Finishing off with sea salt, chocolate, dark fruit cherries, soy sauce, vanilla, caramel, earthy hops aned mild coffee. No alcohol in the taste, Crimson Brown clear to hazy dark body, crisp, smooth and rich mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Let me be honest, you really have to have an open mind for this one and one who loves delicious Japanese cuisine. If not, then this beer may not be for you and frankly, this is review will be biased as my tastes and cultural interest get blended into this beer. This is the perfect Umami beer! Simple as that. I have never had a fishy beer like this but I definitely want to try it again and pair it with a dish like Ramen, Sushi or any other Asian cuisine. This beer is damn legit and highly recommended as a pairing for meals!

Anime Corner:
King of Monsters, Godzilla and his Kaiju co-stars are presented in today’s review all done by gamerag3 ofdeviantart.com. It wasn’t hard to choose what made sense with the label and the theme of the pairing but the hard part was finding an awesome anime picture with Godzilla anthropomorphized into an anime girl. Especially one that was done well and was really bad ass. So these pictures made the best pairings in my mind.

Sources:
http://gamerag3.deviantart.com/art/Cover-for-Godzilla-Female-Personification-Project-463927584
http://gamerag3.deviantart.com/art/Burning-Godzilla-462392207
http://bjsinc.deviantart.com/art/Godzilla-458348844

17 Mint Chocolate Stout by Perennial Artisan Ales

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13580520_10103362739180690_264429154771559438_o 13558759_10103362739145760_2404090886619267423_o 13510780_10103362739055940_9024807803358627180_nRating: 6/6

 
17 Mint Chocolate Stout by Perennial Artisan Ales is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with cacao nibs and mint leaves.
 
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
17 is a decadent chocolate stout complimented with a smooth mint finish perfect for winter’s last hurrah. Clocking in at 10% alcohol by volume, it is sure to warm you inside and out.
 
==Introduction==
 
I first tried this beer at the Bruery 8th Anniversary Party and from what I had remembered, it was a very delicious beer. I have tried mint chocolate stouts in the past such as the one from Shipyard or the Ken Schmidt one which I do agree are some of the best one. However, this one seemed even more special. I couldn’t quite figure it out but once I saw that craftshack.com was selling it, I would not pass up the opportunity to bring it to the website here. They make a Bourbon Barrel version of this but this is the first time I really dig into a Perennial only brewed beer. Let’s take a look.
 
Aromas:
Mocha, mint mocha, Irish cream notes, pillow mints, anise, molasses, chocolate mint ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, German chocolate, chocolate mousse, dark fruit currants, raisins, cherries, raspberry, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, graham cracker, fruit cake, mint fudge cake, vanilla, caramel, dulce de leche hints, roasted coffee notes, espresso, Kahlua liqueur notes, brown sugar and almond joy ice cream.
 
Flavors:
Rich chocolate mint ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, German chocolate, chocolate mousse, vanilla, caramel, dulce de leche hints, roasted coffee notes, espresso, Kahlua liqueur notes, mocha, mint mocha, Irish cream notes, pillow mints, anise, molasses, Danish cream, flan, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, dark fruit currants, raisins, cherries, raspberry, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, toasted coconut, yerba buena herbs, evergreen, earthy hop notes, marshmallow smores, graham cracker, fruit cake, mint fudge cake and cinnamon hints.
 
Aftertaste:
Delicious mint and chocolate fudge cake lingers along with coffee notes, dark chocolate, vanilla, flan, dark fruits, molasses and tobacco notes. No alcohol in the taste. Deep dark leprechaun abyss pitch black full body. Smooth, silky, velvety, syrupy, chewy and rich mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability despite the ABV.
 
Overall:
Beyond exceptional. This is the best mint chocolate stout I have ever had. So much balance between the chocolate in the mint that this does seem a lot like a liquid mint chocolate ice cream and way more. More delicious than the Belgo Anise and the Mint Chocolate from Shipyard. I wish I could get the other ones more regularly especially this one but trying it makes me consider wanting to make a mint choco stout myself. Anyways, this is a must get and a highly recommended brew.
 
Anime Corner:
Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck from Bleach was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of green mint, the strength and complexity of the brew as well. Mainly representing this dark brew as a total bad ass but the origin of the dark world Hueco Mundo. The sweetness also helps greatly for this beer as it pair with Nel’s kind hearted character too.
 
Sources:

ExCherrymentations Gone AwRye by Nubis Sanctum Ales

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13458539_10103345683799810_28417043527111739_oRating: 5/5

ExCherrymentations Gone AwRye by Nubis Sanctum Ales is an 9% ABV American Rye Imperial India Pale Ale brewed with Organic Black Cherry.

==Introduction==

13055017_10103215732453350_5395506285058469528_o
Project #24 was created as an experiment to do away with all my hops that I had left over. Stuff that was free, stuff where I didn’t use in some recipes and just hops that I wanted to try out. I had to come up with a recipe before the summer hit as brewing would be difficult due to the extreme heat causing issues in the fermentation process. So I just everything together and hope for the best. Little that I know that this monster of an experimentation would actually come out to be reminiscent of one of my favorites beers that dated back to my beginnings of craft beer. To find out, let’s take a look at this one carefully. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots or Rye bread, toffee, caramel, dark cherry, grapefruit, citrus, piney, herbal, grassy, and earthy hop notes, vanilla, lemon grass, toasted malts, raspberries and dark fruit notes.
13528321_10103345683680050_5108395072979160756_o
Flavors:
Rich Grapefruit, citrus, piney, herbal, dank, grassy, oniony, garlicky and earthy hops, Dark fruit raisin, lots of dark cherries, currants, pomegranates, cranberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, Toffee, caramel, vanilla, floral hibiscus, tangerine gummies, toasted rye bread with cherry and raspberry preserves, toasted malts, lemon grass and basil.
13502594_10103345683660090_4563345640111539149_o
Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with huge dank piney, grassy, herbal, grapefruit hop bitterness and a slight touch of the cherry and rye malts. No alcohol in the taste, Crimson copper full body, bold, crisp, refreshing and slightly smooth mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Just like Arrogant Bastard. IT really is unforgiving considering how much hops I put this beer. A definite ruination to the tongue and yet, the complex sweetness provided by the cherry and the rye just keeps me wanting to drink more of it. I did not expect this beer to be very delicious, but it really surprised me. When I first tapped it, that’s when I realized it was definitely going to be a winner as it reminded me a lot of arrogant bastard. I will definitely want to make this one again.
13522794_10103345683610190_8152795155438813448_o
Anime Corner:
Washuu Hakubi from the Tenchi Muyou series was used in this pairing as I was looking into how using cherries and this being an experimental batch would equate to a character that matches both criteria. Washuu is a genius and mad scientist. Being around more than 20,000+ years would definitely make one very intelligent. She has the hair that pairs well with the cherry aspects but also is not afraid to make crazy creations.

Sources:
http://wallpapershacker.com/wallpaper_1920x1200/tenchi_muyo_washu_hakubi_1920x1200_hd-wallpaper-152279.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/F1EociU.jpg
http://i.ytimg.com/vi/8f7sC8oLMX8/sddefault.jpg
http://anime.astronerdboy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/02-30-Washu-plans.jpg

Primavera Pils by Avila Ales

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13392197_10103320758595120_5467561537762082162_oRating: 4/5

Primavera Pils by Avila Ales is a 4.73% ABV Bavarian Pilsner.

==Introduction==
Originally brewed at the Avila Household, my friend Richard Avila wanted to create 2 beers for his son’s birthday. This one and a California Common. After talking it over, we took both of our brewing supplies and double brewed both the recipes that day at his parent’s place where he used to live. I figured, the more equipment, the faster we can get the brew day finished rather than doing one brew at a time. Thanks to my friend Richard, he has given me these homebrews for review.

This is the Bavarian Pilsner, a light clear ale that’s is more on the lager and pilsner side. This one is definitely the one for the summer. Essentially the “Lawnmower Beer” that is enjoyed by many of those that typically do not drink complex beers. Let’s have a review on it, cheers!

Aromas:
Floral notes, biscuit bread, cereal grain, honey, minor citrus hop hints, grape hints and cane sugar hints.

Flavors:
Pilsner grain, biscuit bread, cereal grain, citrus, piney hop hints, clove spice hint, honey, floral hints, lime peel, buttered toast hints, cane sugar, honey dew melon hints, mild stone fruit hints, mild grape hints, vanilla hints and peppercorn hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry and clean with hints of pilsner grain and honey. No alcohol in the taste, Golden honey clear body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouth feel and very easy to drink.

Overall:
Drinks just like a lawn mower beer. I really enjoyed this one as it was very clean and clear. Unlike the typical lager though, this one is very flavorful unlike the dry flavorless macros. The best part is that there is no homebrew taste. For as difficult as making these light styles are, my friend hit big with this one. I hope my friend Richard makes this one makes this one again but definitely this one is a winner.

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Megurine Luka was used in this pairing as I wanted show the coming of spring as it flows in through in like a musical pattern just like the pattern of flowers that come once the winter has finished. I feel like this picture worked the best to represent the spring or primavera.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/aknjVpH.jpg

 

Vernal Equinox by Avila Ales

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13411836_10103320757492330_6612727150635739859_oRating: 4.25/5

Vernal Equinox by Avila Ales is a 5.51% ABV California Common.

==Introduction==
Originally brewed at the Avila Household, my friend Richard Avila wanted to create 2 beers for his son’s birthday. This one and a Pilsner. After talking it over, we took both of our brewing supplies and double brewed both the recipes that day at his parent’s place where he used to live. I figured, the more equipment, the faster we can get the brew day finished rather than doing one brew at a time. Thanks to my friend Richard, he has given me these homebrews for review.

I bring forth the California Common, a light ale made famous by Anchor Steam. It is not often brewed style but it is definitely a staple in the craft beer world. So let’s take a look at this refreshing beauty and see how it turns out. Cheers!

Aromas:
Honey, rye bread, caramel, toasted bread, mild orange preserve hints, pilsner grains, toasted cereal and cane sugar.

Flavors:
Biscuit bread, rye bread, citrus, piney hop notes, caramel, toffee hints, light cherry notes, brown sugar hints, cane sugar, toasted bread, mild orange preserve hints, butterscotch hints, vanilla hints, pilsner grains, toasted cereal and mild dark fruit hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with notes or citrusy, piney hop notes and rye bread. No alcohol in the taste, copper colored light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very delicious California Common and reminiscent of the Anchor Steam one, if not better. This one was brewed and fermented very well. There was no homebrew taste and as difficult as these beers are to make due to less complex flavors, my friend Richard made a fantastic brew. Delicious amounts of nice caramel essence that still remains loyal to the non-craft drinker and would appease anyone at a party. I hope my friend makes this recipe again. Awesome beer!

Anime Corner:
Fuu from Samurai Champloo was used in this pairing as I wanted to show some aspects of the Vernal Equinox which is at the point where the longest day of the year is the last time the sun stays up late into the nightly hours. The picture she is in represents a lot of those aspects. As the long days say goodnight.

Sources:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PltaZ59OY0U/maxresdefault.jpg

 

Kölsch Encounters of the Briny Deep by Nubis Sanctum Ales

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13417518_10103320750940460_1126936575964532364_nRating: 4/5

Kölsch Encounters of the Briny Deep by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 6.8% ABV German Kölsch brewed with Azzaca hops.

==Introduction==
12916869_10103180652478900_2276470436775575629_o
Project #22 was my first attempt at brewing very close to a light lager. I realize my Gravity was a bit much but luckily it did not get over the top. Needless to say, when I first tried it, it really felt like a clean lager even though it fermented at ale temperatures. I made this beer wanting to take a step back to the first beer I ever made. It was called A Dive Into The Pale, since it was like taking a dive into making beers for the first time. I have come a long way since that time but this time, I wanted to make a testament to what I have learned so far. I made this beer which is a style close to a lager fermented at warm temperatures because with lighter beers, it is much easier to spot off flavors. Therefore, making this one, while easy to make, the outcome would be the hardest part and taking everything I learned, I had to make sure it came out right. While brewing actual lagers requires colder temperatures and temperature control equipment, you can still make a light beer. Well, without further ado, let’s see how my lighter, clearer attempt at a beer turned out.

Aromas:
Pilsner cereal grain, biscuit bread, honey dew melon, banana, citrus, grape and honey hints.

Flavors:
Citrus, Cane sugar hints, biscuit bread, banana hints, grape hints, coriander hints, lemon peel hints, pilsner grain, honey hints, mild vanilla, stone fruit hints, pears, honey dew melon hints, kiwi hints and very minor mango hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with clean and cry with very mild tropical hints on the back end. No alcohol in the taste, Pale hay colored clear body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouth feel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very delicious Kölsch. Even though I only used one ounce of Azzaca, the flavor profiles from that small amount of hops is what really started to drive the beer along with the Kölsch yeast which I felt gave it closer to the German lager with the banana notes. The tropics were definitely from the hops. Although the beer came out a bit higher in alcohol than what I wanted, I think it still came out to a really drinkable clean beer. I will definitely make this again but the only thing I would adjust is the amount of malt I add to lower the ABV into the lager range. Despite that, for being so damn clean, clear and above the average tasting lagers, I really enjoyed what I did with this one.

Anime Corner:
Kid from Chrono Cross was used for this beer and pairing as she represents the clean waters, the dive into the ocean. The name of the beer is a play at Close Encounters. In this case, Kid finding this beers is like finding gold. This beer is like the color of gold. Very nice and clear and while it is not worth millions of dollars, the taste buds seem to say otherwise.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Kid.%28Chrono.Cross%29.full.428212.jpg

Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

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13466114_10103320748215920_5116442246417733530_nRating: 6/6

Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 16.8% ABV Old Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
This sturdy beer marks our eighth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

Our eighth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain then blended using the solera method for more complexity as the years go by. Poterie (Pottery) will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.

==Introduction==
13418408_10103320747996360_2480020464695249951_o
Poterie or “Pottery” in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 9th year in which Pottery, Copper or Leather Goods are given. I noticed that this year, they decided to skip Bronze/Salt which was the 8th entry as it may have been too close to Copper or Salt may not have been a good name, who knows. The beer was released in May 2016 and will be available to the public and many places where the Bruery beers are sold. Every year’s addition of the first ale to the new batch gives it another great layer of complexity as the original ale that is now 8 years old and the new young batch all together using the Solera method, as explained in the description, is that much more extraordinary. Every year since Fruet, their 4th Anniversary when I first tried their beers, I have anticipated each release anxiously. It is with great pleasure that I show you, the newest batch and the newest review of the Bruery’s Anniversary beer. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Almond joy, toasted coconut, flan, fruit cake, Cadbury Cream Eggs, Creme brulee, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, butterscotch, nutmeg, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, Danish cream cookies, bananas, clove spice, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, burnt sugar, Dark Belgian candi sugars, burnt cane sugar, butterscotch, waffle cone, dark fruit, raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, anise, chocolate truffles and chocolate mousse.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel and Milk Chocolate Cadbury Cream Egg fusions, Creme brulee, flan, vanilla, toasted coconut, marshmallows, chocolate truffles, bourbon, brown sugar, rocky road ice cream, Grilled Bananas, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, butterscotch, nutmeg, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, Danish cream cookies, plantains, rye bread, chocolate cherry cordials, smores chocolate, fruit cake, mocha hints, Belgian Candi sugars, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, chocolate mousse, waffle cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding, maple syrup, stone fruit peaches and cream, mango, and wild flower honey.

Aftertaste:
Rich flavorful finish of fruit cake, dark fruits, Cadbury cream eggs, dark cherries, bourbon, marshmallows, flan, vanilla, milk chocolate, raisin bread pudding, flan and cola hints. Some alcohol in the aftertaste but not detracting from the rich flavors. Dark crimson brown medium to full body, silky, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Supreme of supremes as well. It seems in comparison to the Scotch barrel aged is that the Scotch one is better as there are subtle Scotch notes that would distinguish it. I feel this year beats last year as it makes more for a fruit cake and flan forward flavors along with the cadburry cream eggs and the dark fruit cherries. So much going on at different temperatures especially as this evolves. If you have yet to get any of the Bruery’s anniversary beers and you love heavy brews, you must do yourself a favor and get one. Cheers to the Bruery, us the fans and many more years of beers!
13443281_10103320748006340_7812827076846666121_o
Anime Corner:
As used in the Scotch Barrel Aged version of Poterie, Samus Aran from Nintendo’s Metroid series was used in this review as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label. The blues and oranges seem to stand out very well. Also, since I have done a trend on these using characters in body suits, I figured it was perfect. The Poterie aspect in the name works well too as in one of the artworks, her armor is like the color of pottery so her being inside the suit is like the beer being inside a ceramic vase. Definitely creative that is for sure. The complexity and flavors just mimic her character as well as she is both strong and her story is very deep. Now because this is the original base beer, I brought Ridley into the pairing as he stands being her nemesis but also an epic fight with Ridley show cases Samus strength and will.
13407333_10103320748031290_6568664538286986520_n
Sources:
http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/090/064/a4a.png
http://www.dailynintendo.nl/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/47139_metroid.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/futabama/imgs/7/8/78926d88.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3f/08/47/3f08473584310cb6797672285260f232.jpg

2016 Blue BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

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13433224_10103320746279800_2640103366717163946_o 13427909_10103320746189980_9112990814529630980_n 13443287_10103320746120120_3369049914240740891_o 13394066_10103320746170020_1931009500556845568_nRating: 6/6

2016 Blue BBLS by The Bruery Terreux is a 16.3% ABV World Class Imperial Sour Stout blend (30% Tart of Darkness Sour Stout and 70% Black Tuesday Imperial Stout) aged in Bourbon Barrels with Blueberries.

Label:
Berries – Stoked – Oaked
IT’S SWELL

A sweet, sour, and fruity ale. Extended oak aging and an addition of blueberries results in a delightful vinous quality.

In brewing, BBL is the notation for “barrel,” a unit of a measurement equal to 31 gallons. This is not to be confused with an oak barrel, which typically holds nearly two BBLs of beer. Still with us? Great. Blue BBLs is best enjoyed fresh for peak fruit flavor, but may develop pleasantly with time if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

Released to the Bruery Reserve and Hoarders society, the original version of this brew was released to Hoarders a couple of years ago and since I finally had a chance to try before, I had to get this one again. With only so few variants of Black Tuesday ever released in bottles, this one is a staple just like the others. From the first time I tried it, I had fallen for this one. Reminding me similar to wineification but in blueberry form and still showcasing the flavors of the Black Tuesday along with the flavors of Tart of Darkness. So with the release under the Terreux now, let’ see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Blueberry flan, Dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, wine grapes, Concorde grape skins, raspberries, figs, dark cherries, vinous grapes, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, blueberry fudge cake, bananas, port wine, chambord raspberry liqueur, rocky road ice cream, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, Belgian Chocolate, Danish cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Super blueberries, tart blueberry skins, concord grapes, blueberry flan, blueberry muffins, blueberry cheese cake, blueberry fudge cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, wine grapes, Concorde grape skins, raspberries, figs, dark cherries, vinous grapes, port wine, chambord raspberry liqueur, rocky road ice cream, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, burnt sugar, banana notes, Irish cream, molasses, anise, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Danish cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, hazelnut nectar, crème brulee, pecan pie, blueberry preserves and blueberry chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Lots of Blueberries that linger forever, with flavors of the dark chocolate, bourbon, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, flan, sweetended condensed milk. Sweetness covers up a lot of the alcohol so only slight in taste but mainly sweet. Dark and Pitch black full body just like the original. Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel, and a sipping drinkability although it seems easy to drink at times like many of the dangerous yet “plug it into my veins” beers go.

Overall:
If the Draco was the Blueberry Barleywine heaven and Smashed Blueberry the Wee Heavy Porter Blueberry heaven, then this must the imperial and sour stout of blueberry heaven. It is just as delicious as I had remembered when I first tried it. I am really happy they decided to release this one again and hope they make this a staple in their variant beer blends. There is a rich amount of blueberry yogurt chocolate complexity going on in this beer that can only be understood with every sip. This one is one of my favorites along with the Black Tuesday variants and is definitely one for the list. This beer is a must have if you have not tried it. Best to all that love Blueberry Stouts.

Anime Corner:
Shampoo from Ranma ½ was my girl for this beer as well as the original Blue BBLS. In the show, the main character Ranma hardly paid any attention to her even though she was the hottest girl in the show giving any man there including real men/women a boner. She was a huge representative of Amazonian women as she was huge but also very skilled kung fu master as well as a waitress. Her passion to fight for Ranma would be the kind that would destroy mountains and that is why even to this day she is one of my favorite characters of anime from back in the 90s. When I thought of Blue BBLs it not only reminded me of her being that representative of giving blue balls to others that liked her but mainly her Chinese style of hair with the little buns that looks like two blue balls. Shampoo’s strength and sweetheart of a personality but vicious for her passion is representative of the beers alcoholic strength and sweet super complexity.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Shampoo.(Ranma.½).full.875459.jpg
http://pds25.egloos.com/pds/201602/04/56/f0027756_56b3675f4c9ff.jpg
http://asha47110.deviantart.com/art/Shampoo-Ranma-FANART-D-509416937
http://orig14.deviantart.net/da6a/f/2015/142/1/a/shampoo__palette_challenge__by_animusubi-d8uapeg.png

2016 Saixon by The Bruery Terreux

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13427866_10103320742667040_4660205668404547932_n 13442342_10103320742657060_2122406810301567050_n 13391517_10103320742642090_3489653207712928268_oRating: 4.25/5

2016 Saixon by The Bruery Terreux is a 6.7% ABV Belgo-German Saison/Farmhouse ale brewed with Hallertau, Opal and Mandarina Bavarian Hops and Brettanomyces

Label:
Crisp – Spicy – Worldly
Saixon is a saison – not a typo. But it’s different. The saison style traces its origin back to Wallonia, the predominantly French-speaking (and bordering) region of Belgium. We asked ourselves what the style would be like if the pendulum swung East and took root closer to the German border of Belgium. And then we brewed it. Presupposition meets new inspiration in this Belgo-German hybrid. In addition to the dry, crisp and funky notes you’d associate with the classic saison style – and the wildly traditional use of Brettanomyces, Saixon also features three generations of German hops: old school (Hallertau Mittlefruh), second wave (Opal), and new school (Mandarina Bavaria and Hallertau Blanc). Santé? Prost? Cheers!

==Introduction==

Released to all societies including some to the public at the Bruery’s online store (the bruerystore.com), this is the bruery’s attempt at a Farmhouse Ale/ Saison but using German hops. It is a different take on the rustic style that many including myself enjoy very well. German beers have a very special place for me and to have a German inspired saison is a great way to take stuff into a new realm for both countries to complement. With that being said, let’s see how this one is, cheers.

Aromas:
Peppercorn, stone fruit apricot, plum, mango notes, funky farmhouse notes, mild tropical notes, vanilla, waffle cone, banana hints, citrusy, grassy and herbal hops, floral notes and mild clove spice.

Flavors:
Funky farmhouse hay, banana, clove spice, farmhouse hay, peppercorn, sea salt, floral hibiscus, chamomile, waffle cone, biscuit bread, lemon peel, stone fruit apricot, plum, mango notes, oranges, citrusy, grassy and herbal hops, white grapes, vanilla, honey, mint, coriander spice, basil, tropical fruit hints of pineapple, passion fruit and dragon fruit.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with stone fruit notes, lemon peel, spicy, herbally, hoppy and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, golden hazy medium body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good saison show casing a lot of the crisp and clean tasting flavors of the German hops with the rustic Belgian inspired flavors of the saison. Something that is not super complex or super funky but right down the middle of the road and yet very different. Definitely worth a try.

Anime Corner:
Matsumoto Rangiku from Bleach was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of both Belgium and Germany. The Orange and yellow from her hair and the black of her Hakama. It was a simple choice as the beer is Belgian and German inspired and since I haven’t used Matsumoto in a beer pairing in a long time, I figure it was about time then.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/ZW20MtI.jpg
http://76.72.168.19/images/2015-04-12-726521.jpeg
http://static.zerochan.net/full/19/33/19169.jpg

2014 2nd Year Anniversary Crowded by Wiens Brewing

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13392108_10103320738340710_5358735722803928899_o 13418619_10103320738819750_2430570799214926762_oRating: 4.75/5

2014 2nd Year Anniversary Crowded by Wiens Brewing is an 11.5% ABV Cuvee Blend of Imperial Stout, Imperial Bitter Brown, Double Black India Pale Ale and a Barleywine all aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Bottled 10/23/2014
We selected Our Finest Barrel Aged Beers from our collection and masterfully blended them together to create crowded.

Celebrate with one now or crowd it into a cellar of your own. Cheers!

==Introduction==

I found this one at Mr. K’s Liquor near the Bruery. I really liked the label and really liked that this one was a barrel aged brew. I have not tried anything from Wiens brewing so I figure their anniversary ale is a good way to start especially since I love stouts and this one looks to be a cuvee of beers. An example of this is what Firestone Walker does for their anniversary ales. By blending different amounts of different styles of beers, it breeds a complex beer rich in complex flavors. Some blending of beers are better than others but we will have to see what this one has to offer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Smokey notes, tobacco, leather, toffee, vanilla, oak, bourbon, caramel, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, marshmallows, roasted coffee, flan, hazelnut nectar, wine grapes, dark fruits, chocolate smores and rocky road ice cream notes.

Flavors:
Bourbon, vanilla, caramel, oak, toasted coconut, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, vanilla, flan, Irish cream, hazelnut nectar, marshmallows, chocolate smores, Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, toffee, earthy and piney hops, smokey and burnt wood, anise, tobacco, leather, lemon peel, funky wine grapes, mint and ash.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with notes super earthy and piney hop notes, smokey oak and rocky road ice cream.
No alcohol in the taste, dark murky brown fill body, creamy, silky and chewy mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
While I think the score is high since it is using the barrel aging process and even though there is a lot of delicious complexity and aged for 2 years, something is up. I still think it is very delicious, but not the usual exceptional brews that go over the 5 rating. I think the aspect of Black IPA an possibly Bitter Brown might not meld well with the stout and barley wine. The beer is smokey, ashy and hoppy. The Barrel aging sure puts stuff together but it is essentially as the name states, it is “Crowded” in there. While I think the cuvee attempt is awesome and it reminds me a little of Firestone Walker’s blended Anniversaries (The sweeter complex flavors) as you sip it because there is so much rich goodness, yet it still finishes with that slightly unpleasant bitterness. I would definitely want to try this fresher if there is a difference. Maybe this just did not age well. I really think you should give this a shot as the parts that are delicious are very delicious but that smokey and earthy bitterness doesn’t play well.

Anime Corner:
Attila from Fate Stay Night Series, Grand Order and Storia from Pixiv Fantasia were used in this pairing to go with the colors of the label, the crows mainly and the flavor complexity from the ingredients as represented by the various colors. Also, the bad assery is all part of the theme with the crows.

Sources:
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Fategrand-order-Fate-(series)-Anime-attila-(fategrand-order)-3104935.jpeg
http://static.zerochan.net/Storia.(Pixiv.Fantasia.T).full.1864171.jpg

2016 Share This Coffee by The Bruery

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13340197_10103297385989010_8228164100629470786_o 13340239_10103297386158670_2346540734145649410_oRating: 5/5

2016 Share This Coffee by The Bruery is an 11.9% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Mostra Coffee

Label:
Lend a Hand

Share This Experience with a friend, and in the process you’ll be part of helping friends in the Philippines become mobile for the first time. For every bottle we produce, Free Wheelchair Mission receives one dollar. #sharethisbeer made with MOSTRA COFFEE

Share This is a series of beers that will each spotlight unique ingredients and support an important cause. Our first release sources coffee from the Philippines and supports Free Wheelchair Mission.

==Introduction==
Released nationwide, this beer was made to support a good cause and it is one of two so far that will be released in efforts to assist charitable organizations. Good deal. Buy a beer, help people. I think many breweries should do this but only if it is within their limits to do so. Some up and coming breweries may not have the capacity. Anyways, it has been a while since I have tried a regular non-super ABV stout from the Bruery (aside from So Happens Its Tuesday). One with coffee no less, and coffee I have heard of but I do not think I have tried their brand. Let’s see how this one goes. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruit raisins, cherries, currants, blackberries, raspberry, vanilla, caramel, toffee, roasted coffee, espresso, mocha, rocky road ice cream notes, Khalua liqueur notes, crème brulee, steamed milk, marshmallows and toasted coconut.

Flavors:
Complex coffee flavors, mocha, roasted coffee, espresso, java, molasses, tobacco, licorice, anise, toasted coconut, chocolate cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, marshmallows, smores, rocky road ice cream notes, Khalua liqueur notes, crème brulee, steamed milk, Irish cream, dark fruit raisins, cherries, currants, blackberries, raspberry, vanilla, caramel, toffee, earthy hop notes, pecan pie, oreo cookies, flan, hazelnut and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with complex coffee flavors, mocha, dark fruit, dark roast coffee, Irish cream, vanilla, caramel, marshmallows, pecan pie and toffee. No alcohol in the taste despite the high ABV. Dark Full body, creamy, smooth, rich and velvety mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect stout whose status is put there really by the chocolatey mocha complex flavors of the coffee’s contribution to the Bruery’s already World Class methods of brewing. I think many people are going to enjoy this one especially if they like Coffee and chocolate stouts. Even at the high ABV it is, it is pretty drinkable with no offending alcoholic bite. Definitely something that should be sought out. Cheers!
13307345_10103297386038910_3777699904524528180_n
Anime Corner:
Sandaime Muramasa from Full Metal Daemon was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair the colors of the label, the flavors and the “Share” this aspect and coffee. Like a Barista serving coffee. Although, Sandaime is actually a maid in this one. Either way, I really liked the colors and the pictures. It is a character I have not paired with a beer in a very long time.
13335528_10103297386028930_1386164679910756981_n

Sources:
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/0dbb7-1344242209717.jpg
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Adult-swim-Anime-Adult-Anime-Sansei-Muramasa-3030551.jpeg
http://nu-ku.net/cg/20160115_063/20160115_063_005.jpg
http://p.im9.eu/9eb4f837d8e270bba8f1cb53b66415b7.jpg

La Muerta EC12, Vanilla EC12 & Coconut EC12 by Freetail brewing (Triple Review Special)

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

13320842_10103297382061880_4389833072106254560_o13335536_10103297381892220_9107489069963913196_n13320530_10103297381547910_1533657400775212196_o==Introduction==
A very special gift from my friend Aaron Mendiola, owner of BeerMetalDude.com, this is the 3 Elijah Craig 12 variants of Free Tail’s La Muerta! Which to me is like the Dark Lord of Texas in a way that Black Tuesday is the Dark Lord of California, or so I would think. Anyways, the variants are all aged in Elijah Craig 12-year-old bourbon and 2 of them are made with coconut and vanilla. The reason I wanted to do a triple review is to see how each one varies in the flavors not just to the EC12 by its self but even to the original La Muerta. Let’s take a look, Cheers!

Label (All 3):
A growing South Texas tradition, La Muerta is brewed each year for Día de los Muertos in honor of our departed friends and family. A big, lush Imperial Stout, La Muerta is full of roast, smoke and chocolate flavors from an array of specialty malts that go into this garnetblack ale. Perfect for sharing with your closest compadres, La Muerta will age wonderfully for years to come – we recommend enjoying one now and save some for the future, if you can. ¡Salud!

EC12
==============
13320788_10103297382560880_3091643696116186860_o
La Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig 12 Bourbon Barrels.

Aromas:
Rocky road ice cream, vanilla, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, pecan pie, cinnamon, anise, fruit cake, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Mexican chocolate abuelita, German chocolate, campfire smoke, cherry cordials, coconut notes, rye bread, coffee notes and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Mexican chocolate abuelita, German Chocolate, rocky road ice cream, molasses, tobacco, anise, bourbon, oak, vanilla, marshmallows, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, coconut notes, rye bread, coffee note, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, pecan pie, piloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar, flan, sweetened condensed milk, rock candy, candi sugar, ginger bread, fruit cake, chocolate flan, earthy notes, pretzel notes, bananas, clovey notes, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, campfire smoke, cherry cordials, port wine and dark chocolate cherry cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with earthy notes, rocky road ice cream, caramel, dark fruit, toffee, smokey notes,cinnamon and choco fruit cake finish. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

EC12 W/ Vanilla
==============
13339650_10103297381767470_7542428857273314347_n
La Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig 12 Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla.

Aromas:
The vanilla comes through more on this one but still similar aromas to the original with some other notes like banana and more chocolate.

Flavors:
Similar to the original but the Vanilla accentuates flavors into something additional. More flan, more crème brulee, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, more dulce de leche, more chocolate, almond milk, chocolate mousse and more rocky road ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich vanilla notes, flan, crème brulee, earthy notes, rocky road ice cream, Jericalla, more caramel, dark fruit, toffee, smokey notes,cinnamon and choco fruit cake finish. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

EC12 W/Coconut
===================
13344588_10103297381503000_3998769685468666503_nLa Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig Bourbon 12 Barrels with Coconut.

Aromas:
Even richer coconut, flavor, macaroons, almond joy chocolate, rye, more flan notes, bit more dark fruits, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie and Cocada Mexican coconut candy along with the aromas of the original EC12.

Flavors:
Similar to the original but coconut seems to amplify the flavors way higher. Super Almond joy coconut chocolate note, rye bread, oakier, flan, chocolate coconut pie, hazelnut nectar, Irish cream, Danish cream, richer sweetened condensed milk, raspberry chambord hints, cocada Mexican coconut candy and macaroons.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with super rich with coconut, vanilla, flan, almond joy chocolate, bourbon, flan, crème brulee, fruit cake, rocky road ice cream, caramel, dark fruit, toffee, and smokey notes. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

==================
13342949_10103297381498010_6217920515371946293_nOverall:
While all the beers are supremely exceptional showcasing more complex flavors than the others, it was hard to choose which one I loved the most. Well, more than the original EC12 as that one was the base which was way better than the Original La Muerta ofcourse. However, the EC12 I really loved the most was the coconut one. While vanilla is my thing, the coconut one just blew everything out of the water for me and definitely the best coconut beer I’ve ever had so far. These variants should be highly sought out and I can never thank my friend Aaron Mendiola enough for these as he really went out of his way to get me something very special. Please support his site www.BeerMetalDude.com to see some more awesome beer reviews.

Anime Corner:
Original characters and Dead Master from Black★Rock Shooter were used to pair with each of the labels. I tried to get as close as possible to the labels using the different colored skeletons but also representing either the reaper, death, dead lady and grimm overall.

Sources:
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/toregazou/imgs/0/8/081b6e19.jpg
http://img.diyidan.net/post/2015/10/25/WfsRJg74djmEkEW8.jpg!webmedium
http://i.imgur.com/UXQV0l4.jpg
https://41.media.tumblr.com/560d2231a3934e6bcc4809a377578b4f/tumblr_o0hkk7hI331rd89lxo1_1280.png
http://i.imgur.com/K7JZPgP.png
https://k61.kn3.net/taringa/2/3/8/8/5/2/70/agente867/1CE.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/fA8bJVj.jpg
13323650_10103297382565870_7590665301203433800_oRating: 6/6 EC12
Rating: 6.25/7 EC12 Vanilla
Rating: 6.35/7 EC12 Coconut

Easy As She Gose by El Borracho brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

13340050_10103297378688640_7369461960603054572_o 13308193_10103297378748520_6795780931142989039_o 13308324_10103297378563890_6867895554117880324_oRating: 4.85/5

Easy As She Gose by El Borracho brewing is a 4.9% ABV Gose brewed with Oranges, Limes (Juice and Zest) oak aged in Herradura Resposado Tequila.

==Introduction==
Another awesome experiment by my friend William Carranza of El Borracho brewing. This time, he wanted to make a Gose as close to a Margarita as he could. The style while mainly German with salt is one that I think would work very well to make a Margarita kind of beer. So now that he has donated the beer to the site, let’s take a look.

Aromas:
Tejuino maize notes, limes, agave, stone fruit apricot, apples, Citrus, Lime peel, oranges, rich orange juice, grapefruit, banana, phenolic notes, coriander, honey, floral notes, sea salt, oak, tequila hints, clove and vanilla.

Flavors:
Citrus, Lime peel, oranges, rich orange juice, tangerines, peppercorn, Margarita notes, tequila hints, agave, oak, sea salt, grapefruits, lemon grass, floral notes, wild flower honey, tart grape, hibiscus notes, chamomile, lavender, stone fruit apricot, apples, pears, phenolic notes, bananas, coriander and clove spice, vanilla, flan hints and Tejuino maize notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a mix of Salty, lemon lime with sweet orange notes, oak and tequila hints. No alcohol in the taste. Cloudy honey medium body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious brew. One thing my friend did mention is that the Gose might be a bit saltier than what he wanted it to be. Funny thing is, I felt the Gose from the brewer was just as salty if not saltier. But even other Gose beers I have tried have been a bit like that. It might be for some but I was very pleased with it as I had explained to him that the base of the ingredients he used to make it such as the oranges and limes along with the tequila oak really did bring out some of those Margarita flavors almost to the point of the Mexican Cantaritos which have oranges, limes, grapefruit and tequila. So I would definitely want to see this one again!

Anime Corner:
Original Anime Girl, Homika from Pokemon, Asagi, Sakura and Yatsu from Taimanin Asagi were used in this pairing as I wanted to get the pairing as close as the Song “Steady, As She Goes” by the Raconteurs. So definitely a band was in mind. Also, Easy as She goes seems like something else along the lines of someone being easy? Maybe, but also the tropical aspects of the beer are depicted in the picture as well.

Sources:
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-04-13-825139.jpeg
http://pds27.egloos.com/pds/201604/16/00/e0060200_57118e2476001.jpg

Verbum in Tenebris by Save the World brewing

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13315409_10103297375624780_7754062790014740956_n 13335540_10103297375619790_8022862562523083178_nRating: 5.25/6

Verbum in Tenebris by Save the World brewing is a 7.5% AVB Belgian Double Milk Chocolate Stout aged in cocoa nibs and peppermint.

Label:
Verbum In Tenebris (Word in the Darkness)
Our Belgian style double milk chocolate stout was aged with cocoa nibs and peppermint, resulting in deep aromas and rich flavors of chocolate, hints of mint and roasted coffee. It is full bodied with malt sweetness at the beginning and a lingering rich medium dry finish.

Enjoy this Dark silky delectable ale!
Try pairing with roasted and grilled meats, rich cheeses, and all deserts, especially ice cream. Goes especially well with love!

==Introduction==

Obtained this one via trading from my friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.com. This is the second beer I review from the up and coming Save the World brewing. The Quadruple with the brett I first had from them was downright amazing! So naturally, with the next beer I get to try being a Chocolate Milk Stout and a Belgian Imperial style too, well, I really am hoping this one is just as delicious or way better than the first one I had. Let’s a look now, cheers!

Aromas:
Anise, molasses, brown sugar, Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Fudge chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, marshmallows, port wine, Belgian Candy sugar, smokey oak, earthy hop notes, vanilla, leather, tobacco and mint chocolate chip hints.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Fudge chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Sugar, port wine, Belgian Candy sugar, smokey oak, roasted coffee notes, earthy hop notes, vanilla, leather, tobacco, anise, licorice, molasses, mint chocolate chips, pillow mints, dark fruit cherries, raisins, plums, currants, raspberry, figs, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, mocha, graham crackers, marshmallow smores and double chocolate cake with cherry cordials and Raspberry Chambord syrup.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with raspberry, dark cherry yogurt hints, dark fruits, rich chocolate, earthy notes, mint, molasses, tobacco, smokey notes and port wine. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black body, smooth, creamy, silky and velvety mouthfeel with a moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
Definitely exceeding some of my expectations. The beer is just like the great Belgian Stouts I have had in the past but the lactose and chocolate with the peppermint really take things up a notch and into another realm for sure. The complexity added by the ingredients gives a lot of the flavors that I really enjoy, especially the chocolate. This one is a high recommend from me especially if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Celty Sturluson from Durarara!! Was used mainly as the Word the darkness and the colors in the label. She doesn’t really have a face, but a helmet so you wonder, how can someone without a face make words. If the words do come, they are definitely from the darkness as depicted in the picture pairing.

Sources:
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Celty-Sturluson-Durarara!!-Anime-2942251.jpeg
http://blog-imgs-79.fc2.com/j/i/n/jingaidaisuki/20150724055223297.jpg

Papay-Ale by El Borracho brewing

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Rating: 5/5

Papay-Ale by El Borracho brewing is a 4.4% ABV Cream Ale brewed with Papaya

==Introduction==

Thanks to my friend William Carranza of El Borracho brewing for hooking me up with one of his latest homebrews, a Cream Ale with Papaya. This brew was made using lots of papaya. He advised the inspiration for this beer was to use fruits which he had done with other beers. This time, with using a papaya. Let’s see how this one goes, cheers!

Aromas:
Tropical fruit forward from the papaya, honey dew melon, pineapple, guava notes, cane sugar, biscuit bread, caramel, lychee, stone fruit, grapefruit and grassy hop notes.

Flavors:
Lots of Papaya, mango, Kiwi, honey dew melon, guava hints, vanilla notes, cane sugar, grapefruit, grassy and citrus hops, stone fruit peach, apricot, pineapple hints, lychee, watermelon, tangerines, cherry notes, tropical fruit punch hints, biscuit bread and caramel notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with cane sugar, papaya and grapefruit hop notes with some lingering tropical fruit and stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very delicious beer. It’s crazy to think how perfect papaya works with the cream ale style and how crazy refreshing it is. Lots of complexity while still being very balanced and flavorful. Definitely one of the better beers made by my friend Will.

Anime Corner:
This original character was used in this pairing as I wanted to show case the papaya in the picture. Sure, the girl has nice melons, but that’s beside the point. Anyways, this was about the only good pic I could find that had a papaya in it.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/93/40/d2/9340d2e96baba4b172be6ace65af8c71.jpg