Monthly Archives: November 2016

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

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

 

15272146_538653836330723_7918414292116940451_oRating: 7/7

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux is a 12.3% ABV American Strong Cuvee of Bourbon Barrel aged Imperial Stout, Sour Stout and Imperial Stout with cacao nibs, cherries and vanilla.

Commercial Description:
Blend of Black Tuesday, Tart of Darkness and So Happens It’s Tuesday with cacao nibs, cherries & vanilla 

==Introduction==
15259685_538653796330727_8655979114883365236_o
Hot Diggity Damn! The BBLs has been hard to come by. Not all versions of these special Melange type blends actually make it to bottles nor do they make it to even reserve members. This special blend was a tap room exclusive and it was one I could not pass up especially since they actually allowed the purchase of it via a 32 ounce growler. Knowing the Bruery for making beers that taste exactly or super close to what they say it would, I think nothing less that this would taste like an actual Cherry Chocolate Cordial especially with the ingredients used. Tart Cherries, vanilla and cacao nibs. Let’s take a look and see if it’s true, cheers!

Aromas:
Tart Sour Cherries, Dark chocolates, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, Toasted coconut, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate cheesecake, cherry mazapan and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Sweet and Tart juicy cherries, dark cherries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, Toasted coconut, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, blueberry muffin, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, port wine, bourbon, marshmallow smores, oak, flan, chocolate cherry cake, fudge cake, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate cheesecake, chocolate mousse, Pancho Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, graham crackers, rocky road ice cream, mint, cherry marzipan and cherry sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Lots of rich chocolates, rich dark cherries, rich dark fruits, vanilla, hazelnut hints, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, port wine, tart grape notes, coconut notes and bourbon. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewey mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Amazingly ridiculous. A bucket lister if they ever put it in bottles. This beer is ridiculous. The tartness from the cherries balances out the sweetness from the chocolate and vanilla that it makes it decadent. I definitely think this should actually be their next bottling as it is too damn perfect. I don’t know if they will have this one at the Bruery by the time the review comes out but I am hoping that if you ever see this one, do not skip out on it. It was definitely worth the pick up to bring it to the site and I highly recommend this one.
15304297_538653792997394_5369768694156746585_o
Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto as I wanted to pair the colors of dark chocolate cherry and she seemed to fit the bill just nicely. Like biting into a plumpy Choco cherry cordial, this beer is damn irresistable. The tart sour aspects come from her attitude as well as her inner rage known as Inner Sakura. This beer is no joke and the strength wielded by its ABV can be deadly and bliss at the same time. 
15235620_538653799664060_8395509773269496567_o15259747_538653839664056_791691116528169143_o
Sources:
http://www.chuing.net/zboard/revol_getimg.php?id=mfa&no=48179&num=0&fc=d920683bfdb39f570ee673b6580a4334
https://skategb.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/595882.jpg
http://photos.hdlandscapewallpaper.com/anime/naruto/naruto2670.jpg

 

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery

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

 

15271865_538639712998802_6685030592850345833_oRating: 7/7

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery is a 13.1 % ABV World Class English Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels with coconut.

Label:
Bear The Palm

This Rendition of our classic bourbon barrel-aged barleywine ale amplifies the coconut character natively derived from extensive bourbon-barrel-aging.

This is our classic bourbon barrel-aged barleywine ale, Mash, stretching to new levels. Mash & Coconut has coconut added – nearly 1 lb. Per gallon, which ratchets up the complex coconut character and complements the oaky and vanilla notes that are imparted to the beer as part of its extensive maturation in oak bourbon barrels.

==Introduction==
15252677_538639666332140_2834696412721063666_o
After 2 years, the Bruery has finally re-released the one of their most awesome beers, the Mash and Coconut. I remember this one distinctively since the first time they released it, it was not up to their standards. Essentially, they had issues with the beer that could only be served at their tap room and not be bottled. Fast forward to now, and they not only released a tap room of it, but also in bottle form. I bring this one back as I remember it being a supreme coconut joy. Now since it has been released to all societies, let’s take a look at it from a bottle perspective, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of toasted coconut, vanilla, caramel dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, chocolate brownies, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows smores, butterscotch, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, plums, stone fruit peaches and cream, peach cobbler, rye toast with coconut burnt sugar, Mexican Alfajor Coconut pastry, madamia nuts, Macaroons, flan, brown sugar and bananas.

Flavors:
Supreme coconut cream and pecan pie nectar, hazelnut, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, plums, fruit cake, marshmallows, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, smoked peat, toffee, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, stone fruit peaches and cream, peach cobbler, rye toast with coconut burnt sugar, Mexican Alfajor Coconut pastry, madamia nuts, Macaroons, flan, coconut custard, capirotada raisin bread pudding, maple, oatmeal raisins cookies, plantains, Danish cream, chocolate brownies, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, marshmallow smores and graham crackers.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Rich Almond joy chocolate, dark fruits, bourbon notes, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, flan, bananas, Mexican coconut candy, hazelnut nectar, vanilla and cheesecake. No alcohol despite the ABV. Dark brown full body, smooth creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bucket lister that finally was released in bottles. With the separation of Sour and regular brews, a much more controlled environment was what made this possible for the Bruery. Thankfully it was finally released and this time, Preservation Society would see this one coming. So if you signed up for Quarter 4 2016, you will get this one along with Black Tuesday and another brew. This is a must get and if you can get several, do cellar them. This is insane, I highly recommend this one!
15259677_538639662998807_3267183794057221693_o
Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers and Knives Chau from Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World were used in this pairing as the original since I wanted to compare them to the name MASH & COCONUT. Ramona always has a hammer ready to MASH up her opponents and Knives is a smooth ninja representing the coconut flavors and the overall smoothness of the beer. This is way too easy to drink. They are both hot but super damn deadly. Some of the colors of the label also pair with the artwork. Scott is there for the other complex flavors of the beer as well as the other characters from the series.
15289313_538639669665473_4808701372095119454_o
Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1250828
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
http://data.whicdn.com/images/89284118/large.png

 

Wooden Rooster by Tallgrass Brewing

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

 

15304223_538637189665721_8915116477263500459_oRating: 5.75/6

Wooden Rooster by Tallgrass Brewing is a 9.5% ABV Belgian Tripel aged in Rye Whiskey Barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
To create Wooden Rooster, we took Velvet Rooster, our Belgian-style Tripel, and aged it in rye whiskey barrels, giving it an oaky vanilla finish.

==Introduction==

Saved what might be possibly, the best for last. This can be the last in the series of cans from Tall Grass brewing that my friend Aaron Mendiola had sent me. Please check out his reviews at BeerMetalDude.com and definitely check out Tall Grass brews if you can get them. This is a barrel aged Tripel version of their original, the Velvet Rooster. I have not tried the original but barrel aged brews seem to be more awesome than the original on the majority of the times. Let’s just see how awesome though, cheers!

Aromas:
Waffle cone, bananas, clove spice, wine grape notes, floral notes, Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, peppercorns, citrus, whiskey, oranges, Chardonnay, grapes, cantaloupe, strawberries, lavender, bubblegum notes, honey and butterscotch.

Flavors:
Raw sun matured oranges, whiskey, vanilla, oak, peppercorns, citrus, lemon, Bananas, clove spice, wine grape notes, floral notes, farmhouse hay, stone fruit old mango, peaches, apricots, plums, waffle cone, cane sugar, honey, butterscotch, buttercup pecans, almond milk, sweetened condensed milk, flan, Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, dulce de leche caramel, rice pudding, brown sugar, Chardonnay, grapes, cantaloupe, strawberries, lavender, bubblegum notes, clove spice, coriander, maple and funky notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes oak, whiskey and vanilla with lots of melding Belgian candi sugar sweetness, vanilla and biscuit. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy Golden full body, smooth, creamy, crisp, and refreshing mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
This is damn exceptional. The best I have had from Tall Grass brewing by far. This amazing brew has great levels of amazing complexity and definitely stands to other Belgian Barrel aged brews I have had before. It also reminds me of the Bruery’s White Oak aged in bourbon or the Barrel aged Cali Belgique. Definitely something that is not often brewed but this one is a must get for sure. Highly recommended.
15195987_538637176332389_3846170263331871360_o
Anime Corner:
Ultima from Final Fantasy Tactics and a Rooster cosplaying as Akuma from Capcom’s series, Street Fighter, were chosen to represent the wooden rooster. Not just for the colors which pair well with the label of the feathers and the fact that one is a rooster and one is a fallen angel. Regardless, the bad assery and that fact that this brew is ridiculously awesome is really what does it.

Sources:
http://www.crymore.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Ultima-chan.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2016/06/15/16/36/45/57412263_p0.jpg

 

Zombie Monkie by Tallgrass Brewing

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

 

15272163_538636566332450_2923194009636993932_oRating: 5/5

Zombie Monkie by Tallgrass Brewing is a 6.2% ABV American Porter.

Label: 
Tactical Grip Can 
To Prevent Slippage while fleeing
Original Gravity: 1.062 IBU:35
Alc. By Vol: 6.2% Volume: Pint
Notes:
A relentlessly tasty beer inspired by approximately true events.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Zombie Monkie is a dark, rich porter, carefully brewed for the post-apocalyptic world to come. Crafted with lots of roasty dark chocolate and specialty malts, then inoculated with enough hops to add a floral/citrus character in the finish. It’s hardy, complex, and interesting, because you might be drinking it for a long time.

==Introduction==
15259417_538636559665784_22445208573785438_o
Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com for sending this one my way. This Tallgrass Brewing can I have not seen and I definitely like how it is very unique. It has special indents and grooves in the can giving it a special feel. I think I will actually keep the can after the review. The design of the label is also awesome. So far, all the brews from Tallgrass brewing have been amazing but this one seems like it could be the best one yet. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, baker’s chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate chocolate brownies, mint chocolate chip, rocky road hints, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, vanilla, caramel, toffee, marshmallow smores, brown sugar and maple syrup hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark chocolate, milk chocolate, baker’s chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate, toasted malts, vanilla, caramel, toffee, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, cinnamon, fruit cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, coffee cake, milk sugar, mocha, molasses, brown sugar, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough ice cream, cookies and cream, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream hints, maple, chocolate brownies, mint chocolate chips and chocolate cherry cordials.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich chocolate and coffee roasty notes, vanilla, caramel and dark fruit notes. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect porter! This is damn amazing. They don’t use any additive ingredients like coffee, chocolate or vanilla but the flavor complexity is definitely pronounced. The best part also is that at 6.2% ABV, making this one is very drinkable. It almost feels more like a stout but regardless, this is very delicious. I would highly recommend this one and definitely get several.
15250798_538636562999117_7872718950475177027_o
Anime Corner:
Panty, Stocking and Noodle as well as the Gorillaz and PSG crew were all chosen to go with the theme of the Zombie Monkey as shown in the label. A beer so dark and evil it should definitely be zombie based. Panty and Stoking are not necessarily monkies but their Gorillaz parody sure made them look like them. Also, since they have done an episode where they all turned into zombies, I feel fits the theme as well.

Sources:
https://images6.alphacoders.com/393/thumb-1920-393865.jpg
http://orig07.deviantart.net/a8d3/f/2015/092/e/0/last_living_souls_by_sirmonkeymccoool-d8o45qt.jpg
http://orig11.deviantart.net/2a14/f/2015/118/c/b/zombie_panty_and_stocking_by_twilightwindwaker777-d8rgywp.png

 

Raspberry Jam by Tallgrass brewing

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

 

15194574_538636252999148_3991395711305642196_oRating: 4.35/5

Raspberry Jam by Tallgrass brewing is a 4.3 % ABV Berliner Weisse brewed with Raspberries

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Explorer Series/Limited release. Raspberry Jam pays tribute to the groundbreaking sights and sounds of psychedelic rock. Light and refreshing, with its crisp natural tartness balanced by the addition of raspberries, this Berliner Weisse was initially developed at our brewpub Tallgrass Tap House. When it became a huge hit, we decided it should “go on tour” as part of the Explorer Series. Pucker up and rock on.

==Introduction==
15235567_538636256332481_2971756080875684537_o
Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com for passing another awesome brew my way. This time we have a Raspberry Berliner Weisse. So far all of the Tallgrass brewing beers have been very delicious. I love raspberries so a beer with Raspberry like this one is something I always look forward too. With this one being a Berliner Weisse, I can only hope the raspberry balances well with the tart and sour aspects of the style. Let’s have a look and see, cheers!

Aromas:
Floral and fruity notes, raspberry, biscuit bread, lemon peel, lychees, cane sugar, grape notes, citrus and sour apple hints.

Flavors:
Raspberries, hibiscus, lemon peel, biscuit bread, grassy notes, cane sugar, mild sour apple, honey hints, cereal grains, citrus, sourdough bread, rose petal, floral notes and grape hints, strawberries, lychees, and raspberry yogurt hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with light raspberry flavor, lemon peel and sour apple hints. No alcohol in the taste, pale golden light body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Very refreshing fruity and tart brew. Complex slightly with varying similar flavors. Definitely give it credit for the raspberry. Berliners, for me, there are far and few between that are amazing. This one definitely has an amazing balance giving fruity sweetness that is then balanced by the tart and sour aspects of the Berliner itself. I think this one is worth a try especially if you love Berliner weisse brews.
15195817_538636259665814_2625367817994208001_o
Anime Corner:
Haruko Haruhara from Fooly Cooly/FLCL was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the pink of raspberries, Jam like raspberry jam and music jam and the guitar. Which is all the things that Haruko has. I added the additional original character for the colors of the ingredients and the guitar mainly.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Haruhara.Haruko.full.1854736.jpg
http://x3.cdn03.imgwykop.pl/c3201142/comment_jYmQXVoJxOYYtNld58sLZf1qHRYh7Lzx.jpg
https://k60.kn3.net/taringa/9/6/B/7/5/5/Beriku/B5B.jpg

 

Quintuple IPA (5th Anniversary) by Karbach Brewing

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

 

15259270_10103760816161230_8059158507008525140_oRating: 6/6

Quintuple IPA (5th Anniversary) by Karbach Brewing is a 13% ABV Quintuple India Pale Ale/American Strong Ale.

Commercial Description:
This one of a kind offering is brewed to celebrate 5 years of beer! Brewed with 5 different malts, 5 different sources of fermentable sugars, 5 hop varieties and 5 yeasts. We hope you’re sitting down for this one… 

==Introduction==
15235792_10103760816186180_4333761001457816700_o
Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com who was able to get me this one. I have heard this one was difficult to get as the demand for this one was great and it was a limited edition brew. I think everything I have tried from Karbach has been insanely delicious. Definitely from perfect to exceptional type of brews. Even if it was unfortunately, purchased by ABInBev. While I don’t like that they purchase breweries to “disrupt” the craft beer growth, on one hand, this could possibly mean more distribution for Karbach. Only the future will tell and for this being their 5th and final anniversary (ABInBev pre-purchased) this should probably be a sought out one. They will have more Anniversaries I’m sure but for now, let’s take a look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peach, old mango, Tropical fruit dragon fruit, papaya, guava, dark fruit raisins, figs, cherries, currants, grapefruit preserves on rye bread, toffee, waffle cone, vanilla, butterscotch, citrus, grassy, piney, grape fruit and earthy hops, brown sugar, marshmallow and toffee hints.

Flavors:
Rich dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow, toffee, waffle cone, vanilla, butterscotch, citrus, grassy, piney, grape fruit and earthy hops, Stone fruit peach, old mango, Tropical fruit dragon fruit, papaya, guava, membrillo guava cake, prickly pears, raspberry, strawberries, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, fruit cake, bananas, leather notes, tangerine gummies, orange gummies, berry starburst, bananas, dark fruit raisins, figs, cherries, currants, grapefruit preserves on rye bread, leather, brown sugar, molasses hints and grape gummies.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with orange preserve flavors, caramel, grapefruit, piney and citrucy hops, biscuit bread, vanilla, and dulce de leche caramel. No alcohol in the taste, golden honey amber clear body, clean, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Outstanding and exceptional IPA. Although, this one is more along the lines of a Barleywine but still carries itself in a unique way. Not quite the Barleywine or IPA but definitely a mixed category. The Quintuple IPA sounds about right and so does the American Strong Ale name as well. Regardless, this is one that reminded me of some of the very delicious American strongs I like that are damn hoppy. This one is definitely a must find and even if it ages, I think it will age well, for an IPA!
15235400_10103760815976600_2177108914879354860_o
Anime Corner:
5 Roll variants across Capcom’s Megaman Franchise, 5 fan transformers, Vivi Nefertari, Nico Robin, Boa Hancock, Tashigi and Nami from One Piece we all used to represent 5 for the 5th anniversary of Karbach. I tried to go with as much to represent the colors as well and even paired celebration represented by Nami with the Beer Stein.
15304070_10103760815971610_1248499661714257575_o15194534_10103760815991570_4773623187160730309_o
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/bwKo2O4.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CvreJgCVUAAvXVV.jpg
http://www.figgy.jp/img/figure/2016/201610240003ed2fd517754cc39fb5cff9e48c928e47/9.jpg
https://www.atpress.ne.jp/releases/51066/img_51066_9.jpg

 

PKL FKR by New Braunfels Brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment
15128900_10103729927721910_5909407662739951759_oRating: 5/5
 
PKL FKR by New Braunfels Brewing is a 3.2% ABV Berliner Weisse refermented with Wild Yeast and Bacteria and blended with Pickle Juice.
 
Commercial Description:
Our lemon-lime Berliner Weisse gets a little star treatment.
Refermented 6 weeks to dry the beer and add a little funky notes to our normally crisply sour wheat beer.
After secondary fermentation, PKL FKR is blended with fresh pickle juice.
It’s a pucker party and you’re invited!
 
==Introduction==
15123456_10103729927736880_6475191049864814224_o
Pickle Fucker (Awesome Name) was sent to me thanks to my good friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. This is a definitely unique beer. I have not really seen a beer made with pickles anywhere. My friend William told me about a brew he tried that was made with pickles in a tap room one time but I can kind of see why pickle juice would work with something like this. The closest thing I can think of with special sour beers is the Srichelada from Angel City. That beer was definitely made in the form of a Michelada. Essentially a sour and salty type of brew that is typically made with tomato and clam juice. So, would this be more of a Gose instead of a Berliner Weisse? Well, let’s have a look, cheers!
 
Aromas:
Lemons, Pickles, biscuit bread, sea salt, pilsner grain, grape hints, stone fruit hints, pepper corn, earthy notes, cane sugar and tejuino maize drink.
 
Flavors:
Lots of pickle and cucumber juice, lemon, limes, salt, tejuino maize, biscuit bread, wheat bread, pilsner grain, grape hints, cherry hints, peppercorn, stone fruit apricot hints, mango hints, citrus, herbal and earthy notes, funky vegetable notes and cane sugar hints.
 
Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with notes of pickles, lemon, salt and fruity hints. No alcohol in the taste, golden pale light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.
 
Overall:
Damn session-ably delicious brew! I’ll be honest, this is pretty damn unique. I like my salty and lemon beers every not and again or even pickled foods like pickles, eggs or pigs feet. So let’s put it this way, if you do not like pickles or pickled anything, you probably will not like this. I definitely enjoyed this and would like to have it again. The perfect grading is mainly due to my own personal preference in the fact that I love umami like flavors, its uniqueness and the fact that this is exactly what they were going for, a pickle flavored beer.
15068886_10103729927726900_6792737206967806139_o
Anime Corner:
Nitori Kawashiro from Touhou Project was chosen in this pairing as she represents Kappas. Kappas are these turtle like humanoids from Japanese folklore and love pickles/cucumbers. So her colors as well as theme she brings go with this beer as it is all about pickles and cucumbers.
 
Sources:

Songbird Saison by Tallgrass brewing

by tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

15042111_533625753500198_1618348759467640516_oRating: 4.75/5

Songbird Saison by Tallgrass brewing is a 4.8% ABV American Farmhouse Ale/ Saison

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Tart and refreshing with citrus notes and a light, dry finish, this dry-hopped Belgian-style saison takes flight with unique hop aromas and flavors. With an ABV of 4.8%, Songbird will make an excellent table beer or a go-to for a lazy Sunday.

==Introduction==

Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com for sending me this refreshing brew along with other awesome Tallgrass brewing beers which I have reviewed so far. This time, we bring forth a saison. It is always good to know that Tallgrass is definitely differentiating itself with their different types of brews which I think really helps the brewery grow. So far, every beer I have tried that I have not tried before from them has been amazing. Let’s see if the saison also does wonders, cheers!

Aromas:
Peppercorns, lemon zest, biscuit bread, Stone fruit peach, apricot, hibiscus flowers, waffle cone hints, cane sugar, blonde candi sugar, banana, phenolic notes, clove spice hints, biscuit bread, farmhouse hay, tropical fruit hints and herbal notes.

Flavors:
Stone fruit peach, apricot, sour apples, peppercorns, lemon zest, grapefruit peel, wheat bread, floral, earthy and herbal hops, Tropical fruit mango, honey dew melon, cantaloupe, orange preserves, biscuit bread, farmhouse hay, banana, phenolic notes, clove spice hints, hibiscus flowers, waffle cone hints, cane sugar, blonde candi sugar and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with stone fruits, farmhouse hay, peppercorns, earthy hop notes, clove spice, tropical fruit hints and Belgian candi sugar notes. No alcohol in the taste, pale golden light body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very delicious saison. It is pretty solid showcasing many of the great flavors that come from saisons but bringing in its twist of things. Not too funky and fruitier and refreshing than other saisons. I think this one would be very appealing to average drinker. Worthy of recommendation.
15039490_533625750166865_953411215300185450_o
Anime Corner:
Weiss Schnee from RWBY was chosen in this beer because she fits well with the colors of the label and the theme of the beer. Songbird and the music notes works a Weiss is also a singer. Her white and blue colors pair well with the label as well.

Sources:
https://images4.alphacoders.com/638/thumb-1920-638382.png
http://img14.deviantart.net/9353/i/2013/050/5/9/weiss_by_baka_kiiro-d5vkw4e.jpg

Top Rope IPA by Tallgrass Brewing

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

15111126_10103729868959670_2903459533016196360_oRating: 4.5/5

Top Rope IPA by Tallgrass Brewing is a 6% ABV India Pale Ale.

Label:
Let Me Tell You Something Brother…
This beer’s Got Hops!

Commercial Description:
It’s a beer paying homage to the colorful, character-filled arena of 1980s and 1990s professional wrestling, something near and dear to us at Tallgrass. To get in the spirit while working on Top Rope, we watched a fair amount of clips of Ric Flair’s classic rants, Macho Man Randy Savage flying off the turnbuckle and debated whether Sting or Ultimate Warrior had better face paint and finishing moves. We loaded it with Columbus, Chinook, Cascade, Amarillo and Bravo hops to give it some muscle, and at 6.0% ABV, this beer combines power and finesse. Wooo!

==Introduction==
15068266_10103729868909770_9180029544948828716_o
Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com for sending me this brew. I have never heard of this one but this one was a tribute to Wrestling Entertainment like WWE. Growing up with WWF/WWE was definitely a staple in my childhood days so to bring this one to the table is an honor thanks to my friend Aaron. The days of Hulk Hogan, Macho Man Randy Savage, Ultimate Warrior maybe in the past but live on through tributes like these. Definitely love the quotes as well. Let’s a look at the beer brother, Cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, grapefruit, earthy, piney and grassy hops, tropical fruit melon, kiwi hints, mango hints, biscuit bread, vanilla, honey, lemon and stone fruit hints.

Flavors:
Citrus, Tangerine gummies, grapefruit, earthy, piney and grassy hops, grapefruit, cherry, strawberry, caramel, vanilla, honey, stone fruit peach hints, biscuit bread, lemon peel, orange preserves on rye bread, tropical fruit melon, kiwi hints and mild mango.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with very hoppy notes of citrus, piney, earthy and grassy hops, honey, rye bread and stone fruit. No alcohol in the aftertaste, honey colored light to medium body, smooth, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel along with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious brew showcasing the more citrusy and tangerine candy like flavors of IPAs. A balance of hop bite and mild malty sweetness blends well making this one very enjoyable and drinkable. I think this one would make for a great intro to craft beer especially to the wrestling fans since it is a tribute beer after all. Definitely worth a try.
15123006_10103729868999590_7391148599717686507_o
Anime Corner:
Rainbow Mika from Street Fighter was chosen to pair with the brew as she a wrestling character like Zangief and was the closest known character I could think of when it comes to a female anime/video game wrestler. The theme of the beer is wrestling so despite the colors of the label, she fits the theme of the beer overall.

Sources:
http://66.media.tumblr.com/d03535e1bf224e9163622228a94b0896/tumblr_ntrl1fij1d1rx7tk6o5_1280.jpg
https://cdna0.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/002/109/872/large/bartosz-danielak-rainbowmika-bdanielak-2000h.jpg?1457384425
http://67.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0igfa788j1qiz9nfo1_1280.png

Big Ricc by Tallgrass brewing

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

15068991_533616046834502_8434255671058745180_oRating: 5/5

Big Ricc by Tallgrass brewing is a 10.5% ABV Russian Imperial Stout with Coffee and Chocolate.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Big RICC: Russian Imperial Stout with Coffee and Chocolate

Several years in the making and hitting shelves for the first time in October 2015, Big RICC is large and in charge. A big, bold Russian Imperial Stout, Big RICC rolls in at 10.5% ABV and packs a punch.

Tasting notes: Bold coffee flavor and aroma with strong chocolate notes. Pours jet-black. Subtle dark fruit flavors. Dark roasted grains. Slight, “warming” alcohol presence. Full-bodied and great for sipping.

Awards: Silver Medal, Coffee Beer Category, 2014 U.S. Open Beer Championship

==Introduction==

The name Big Ricc reminded me a lot of the Big Riggs commercial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCW1QaOH1Y8) made by James Rolfe A.K.A The Angry Video Game Nerd. This brew was gifted to me by my good friend and fellow beer review brother Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com.Many of the brews you are seeing are part of a special Tall Grass Brewing shipment he sent to me. This one definitely intrigued me because of the ingredients and the ABV. You definitely do not see many 10% ABV beers in cans and this definitely reminds me of Ten Fidy. Let’s see how this is, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, cherries, prunes, black berries, tobacco, molasses, anise, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, hazel nut nectar, pecan pie, mocha, chocolate chip cookies and Danish Cream.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha, roasted barley, earthy hop notes, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, cherries, prunes, black berries, Danish cream, cherry chocolate cake, marshmallow smores, pecan pie, hazel nut nectar, tobacco, molasses, anise, banana hints, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, rye bread and chocolate chip cookies.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with dark chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha, vanilla, marshmallow smores, caramel, dark fruits, earthy hops and rye bread. No alcohol in the aftertaste. Pitch black delicious full body, smooth, creamy, silky and syrupy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability

Overall:
Damn perfect Russian Imperial Stout! Definitely up there with the Ten Fidy cans. Very robust and full flavor forward, just like I love my Russians stouts. I don’t have much bad to say about this beer other than I can definitely drink a couple of cans of these and especially with the ABV, it almost feels like this one can be cellared for a very long time and can definitely get better with age. I sincerely hope that if you see this one, definitely get it, I highly recommend it.
15123479_533616056834501_7580786944316649912_o

Anime Corner:
Blake Belladonna from RWBY was chosen in this review as I wanted to choose a character that went well with dude riding the motorcycle and is dark like the beer. Blake on the bike was definitely a good choice to go with this beer especially since her colors match well with the dark chocolate and dark fruits for example.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/ihagGpR.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/yMVX7Vu.jpg

8-Bit Pale Ale by Tallgrass Brewing

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

15129098_533612460168194_8538679456118647198_oRating: 4.5/5

8-Bit Pale Ale by Tallgrass Brewing is a 5.2% ABV American Pale Ale brewed.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Just like those classic video games we all grew up with, 8-Bit Pale Ale is spectacularly simple at first glance yet remarkably fun and complex when you get into it. Our Hop Rocket infuses the character of Australian Grown Galaxy Hops into an American Pale Ale, giving a unique tropical, almost melon aroma in a classic American style.

ABV: 5.2%
IBU: 40
Malts: 2 Row, Victory, Vienna & Munich
Hops: Magnum, Centennial, Cascade & Galaxy

==Introduction==

15025381_533612470168193_4433387881888953066_o
The last time I had tried 8-bit Pale Ale was when I visited my friend Steve in Iowa. Before then, it had been sometime in 2012. Today, I was given a chance to bring this one once again to the website thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. Seeing that it has been years since I last brought this one to the site, I want to take the approach using the tasting experience I have acquired over the years and well, try to analyze it further. This beer is inspired by my youth. The days of Nintendo and video games which to this day I still appreciate. They had released an awesome commercial for this beer where it shows a rooster blowing on the cartridge. I can’t seem to find it anymore as the brewery put it to private but it was definitely that one that made me want to get the beer back in 2012. Still, thanks to my friend Aaron, The old school is back for a review.

Aromas:
Tropical fruit mango hints, honey dew melon, passion fruit, pilsner grain, stone fruit peach, lemon peel, Grassy, Piney, grapefruit hint, floral and citrusy hops.

Flavors:
Grassy, Piney, grapefruit hint, floral and citrusy hops, Cane sugar, tropical fruit honey dew melon, cantaloupe, mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, passion fruit, vanilla, caramel, biscuit bread, stone fruit, peach, apricot, lemon peel, lemon candy, tangerine gummies, pilsner grain and mild peppery spice.

Aftertaste:
Finishing slightly dry with citrus. Grassy and floral hops, tropical fruits, stone fruits, vanilla hints and cane sugar. No alcohol on the taste, Pale Golden light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious beer. No matter what, from the first time I tried to now, this one continues to be awesomely refreshing. Pale ales don’t seem to be as popular as they were years ago possibly due to popularity of IPAs and Double IPAs. A well-made pale ale like this one definitely can compete even with those in my opinion. It is definitely refreshing and possibly a good gateway to craft beer. It’s also classic 8-bit era inspired. So yes, I would definitely recommend this one.

15129069_533612473501526_6286740004966800674_o
Anime Corner:
Samus Aran from Metroid and Chun-li from Street Fighter in Tron/ Shadow Lady form have been used when I first made the review of this brew. What I was going for back then is in the sense of characters in an 8-bit realm could be represented by the bits of 0’s and 1’s essentially leading into a Tron like cyberspace. The whole theme of the beer is videogames so both are video game characters.

Sources:
http://img09.deviantart.net/ce9e/i/2009/113/6/b/zero_suit_poster_by_twilit_arawen.jpg
http://n2.hk/d/attachments/day_110404/20110404_b9a4d7a3172d8bab1936GMpGVAhAgL8R.jpg
http://img12.deviantart.net/82ab/i/2014/284/1/d/time_to_collect_that_bounty_by_g_wolf101-d82h55e.png

 

Buffalo Sweat by Tallgrass Brewing

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

15042048_10103729722588000_2888899170855560540_oRating: 4.75/5

Buffalo Sweat by Tallgrass Brewing is a 5% ABV Oatmeal Cream Stout.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
BUFFALO SWEAT
(ABV 5.0%, 20 IBU)

We love this beer here at the brewery, and think you will have one of those “I’ve never-tasted-a-beer-like-that” kind of moments when you try it!

What we really like about this beer is the smoothness that brewing with cream sugar brings to the palate. This smoothness balances out the copious quantities of roasted barley used in the brewing process to create a rich, complex, and delicious beer. If you have not been a stout drinker in the past, give this beer a try. It might just change your mind about how dark beers should taste. It tastes so rich, but is surprisingly easy to drink!

Can’t find the sweat? Don’t sweat it. Just ask for Buffalo Sweat at your local liquor store or your favorite tavern.

==Introduction==
15123238_10103729722413350_7260093685127469366_o
Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola from Texas, owner of BeerMetalDude.com, for hooking me up with several cans from Tallgrass brewing. I firs tried their 8-bit Pale Ale years ago. Especially when they did an awesome commercial for it. I have tried it again during my last trip to Iowa to visit my friend Steve. This one I did remember trying it in Iowa but was unable to bring it over here as I was mainly looking for other beers. While I thought it was a very delicious beer, I did not get a chance to fully appreciate it. Now that my friend Aaron was able to send me this one, now we take a look at it. Typically, we don’t get these here in the west coast but I do know some online stores may have them. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip cookies, vanilla, toffee, dark fruit notes like raisins, currants, cherries, brown sugar, coffee and fruit cake hints.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, coffee cake, roasted coffee notes, lactose, peanut butter hints, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, molasses, anise hints, vanilla, toffee, caramel, oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip cookies, oreo cookies and cream, fruit cake notes, brown sugar and cola hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with an overall nice sweetness of chocolate milk, roasted coffee, vanilla, caramel and dark fruit hints. No alcohol in the taste, dark medium body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious stout. I think I definitely enjoyed this way more this time around than when I first had it in Iowa. Whether it was because I was just drinking just to drink or because the analysis makes it much better, I am not sure. Either way, this is one that I definitely recommend to lovers of delicious stouts.
15069040_10103729722423330_787125786918224981_o
Anime Corner:
Buffalo Bell from Japanese Baseball team, Orix Buffaloes, was chosen by the name of the beer, Buffalo’s Sweat. I don’t want it to mean literal sweat but essentially, it goes with the name as when it gets hot playing Baseball, as you can see. Mainly for the name but the ingredients I was going for you could consider the whole cream and milk aspect as well as dark fruit cherries for the color of pink.
15156741_10103729722418340_7773935426100160174_o
Sources:
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/156/713/e8e.jpg
http://danbooru.donmai.us/data/2a2781bd0a64752fc320f683ad33ed14.png
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/nesinero/imgs/7/9/793fd907.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YCi0y.jpg

Homebrewing Project #26 Chochronicles of Flantasia in the Bananatrix by Nubis Sanctum Ales

by tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment
15002306_10103708108487830_282534169356019834_oRating: 3.75/5
 
Homebrewing Project #26 Chochronicles of Flantasia in the Bananatrix by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 4.46% ABV Belgian Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Bananas, Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
 
Label:
None
 
==Introduction==
14195328_10103536645311410_4405160716846672082_o
Project #26 came from my friend Julio’s idea to create a Banana and Chocolate stout. I have used bananas and chocolate in other beers before so what I did was I pulled a page from one of my old recipes. I minimized the used of bananas to a few unlike what I did with Ban-Anna’s Love Nectar. Since I wanted to make something drinkable as well, I ended using enough ingredients to make a basic milk stout that would not be too high in alcohol. In order to bleed the chocolate and banana through I added the cocoa nibs and bananas along with little bit of flavoring and the vanilla beans. The vanilla beans would represent a more of a flan aspect to the beer as I am using lactose but also along with chocolate, it would be a banana choco flan like beer. The choice in yeast was made since I wanted to go with banana and dark fruit like clovey flavors. I know I could of used a heffeweizen yeast which may have been more suited for this because of the enhanced banana flavors but I figure I try this out first since I already have the bananas in this beer. So let’s see how well this came out. Cheers to my friend Julio for coming up with the idea. Cheers bro!
 
Aromas:
Bananas, Bubble gum, clove spice, Mexican chocolate, vanilla, dark fruit raisin hints, piloncillo sugar cone hints, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, anise, molasses, toffee, caramel and tobacco hints.
 
Flavors:
Rich Bananas, flan hints, bubble gum, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, crème brulee hints, coffee notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Mexican chocolate hints, piloncillo sugar cone, coffee cake, tobacco hints, anise, molasses and pecan hints.
 
Aftertaste:
Finishes with a roasty coffee and earthy bitterness with lingering clove, vanilla, chocolate and banana. No alcohol in the aftertaste, dark murky medium body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a moderate drinkability.
 
Overall:
A pretty delicious beer. While I think it is not my best brew, I can definitely tell where I can change some things. For starters, I would need to make this one an imperial. The beer came out a little too light for its complexity. It seems a lot of the flavors are forward but then the aftertaste is bitter. It is possible this is due to the Belgian strain. I think I would definitely change it by going with more malt to make it an Imperial Milk stout and definitely go with the German Heff strain for next time. Overall, I think it is worthy of another go and definitely grows as it gets warmer.
 
Anime Corner:
This original character, which I do not remember where I got the picture from, was the best thing I could think of as a form of reaction to the way this beer is supposed to be. The idea was the banana chocolate flan aspect that definitely fit with the ingredients paired perfectly with the reaction of deliciousness. While the results of the beer were not quite what I had hoped for, the overall idea was there and is definitely something I will work for once I redo the recipe. I really want that look of amazement in people’s reaction when they try the beer. We will see…
 
Sources:

Phantom Bride collaboration by Belching Beaver

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

14940050_10103685147047740_4523263644696155680_oRating: 7/7

Phantom Bride collaboration by Belching Beaver and Deftones is a 7.10% India Pale Ale brewed with Amarillo, Citra, Mosaic and Simcoe Hops.

Label:
Named after the ethereal song by the one and only Deftones, Phantom Bride IPA is a blend of Amarillo, Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic hops delicately balanced for the perfectly drinkable mix of citrus and hoppy goodness.

A truly original Deftones/Belching Beaver Collaboration envisioned by Chino Moreno and skillfully crafted by Thomas Peters. Sit back, put on your headphones and drink away.

Cheers – Nathan

==Introduction==
14882368_10103685147062710_5037257631610689424_o
Released by Belching Beaver on October 2016. The first release was ridiculous outselling right away in many Bevmos across Southern California. While many believed it was the last of its kind, Belching Beaver had more to released a couple weeks later. In fact, if you are lucky (As of November 1st 2016) you can get some online or at a local Bev-mo. Online stores like craftshack.com still have it. I wanted to release this one on Dia De Los Muertos and lucky I was able to snag one just for the occasion. This release comes as a tribute to the song by the same name released by the Deftones in their “GORE” album which features Jerry Cantrell which also comes from the band “Alice in Chains” and many other awesome bands such as Metallica. He lends a special part with his guitar influences which makes for a great album and well, what a better way to commemorate that with this beer. Cheers and Rock ON!!!

Aromas:
Dank, garlicky, floral, piney, herbal and grassy hops, stone peaches, apricots, rich tropical fruits, guava, strawberry, mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pineapple juice, kiwi, prickly pears, pomegranates, honey dew melon, papaya, cranberries, cherries, tangerines, lychee, kumquats, orange honey blossom, lemon starburst, orange starburst, lemon candy, grapefruit pulp and juice, tangerine gummies, vanilla and sweetened condensed milk hints.

Flavors:
Rich tropical fruit, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, mango, pineapple juice, kiwi, prickly pears, honey dew melon, papaya, pomegranates, dank, garlicky, floral, piney, herbal and grassy hops, basil, lemon grass, vanilla, tangerine gummies, tropical fruit smoothie, grape hints, kumquats, lychees, cherries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, orange honey blossom, lemon starburst, orange starburst, lemon candy, stone peaches, apricots, sweetened condensed milk hints, Danish cream hints, grapefruit juice, tampico orange juice, lime aide and almond cream hints

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich fruit cup, tropical and citrus fruit flavors with rich hop dankness, sweetened condensed milk hints, honey, and other juicy fruits. No alcohol in the taste, Pale Golden Honey light to medium body, crisp, clean, smooth, refreshing and velvety mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
No wonder it is a hard beer to get. It is not New England haze but it sure damn tastes like it. Belching Beaver has never disappointed me even with the release of the much loved Peanut butter and Mexican Chocolate Milk stout, this is amazing. Their Here Comes Mango was an amazing beer but this is kicking stuff to a whole new level. This is a supreme bucket listing juice bomb. It still goes to show that even the west coast can still kick ass even if it is not with a super hazy brew like the hyped ones in the east or special can released. Just like the day of the dead, I hope you can get this one before kicking the bucket as well. A supreme juicy bomb that is highly recommended!!
14855966_10103685146977880_6024550672488003845_o


Anime Corner:
Emily from The Corpse Bride and an original character were the closest I could come up for known characters that could be used to pair with the name of the beer. The theme of day of the dead as well and generally, the wandering of the bride as she had spent life maybe never achieving what she wanted due to something she prevented herself from doing or even, loving in general. Pretty deep stuff but it is enough for people to respect the way others live their lives be it good or bad, the important part is to hope they lived it to their means.

Sources:
http://wir.skyrock.net/wir/v1/resize/?c=isi&im=%2F5660%2F83615660%2Fpics%2F3112832533_1_3_iCV3zPUS.jpg&w=566
http://orig10.deviantart.net/b138/f/2013/275/e/8/corpse_bride_by_byam-d6p0qeq.png
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/арт-барышня-красивые-картинки-1464347.jpeg