Monthly Archives: June 2017

Peanut Butter Latte from Belching Beaver

by tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment
Rating: 7/7

Peanut Butter Latte from Belching Beaver is a 5% ABV Golden Stout brewed with Coffee, Chocolate and Peanut butter.

Label:
People love our Peanut Butter Milk Stout, and this time we put a fun twist on our classic. Thomas brewed up a milk stout that is golden in color, a real sensory trip, and loaded it with coffee and chocolate.

Then we kicked it up a notch by peanut-butterizing (is that a word?) the beer for a real treat for Winter months. Tom said, “A Peanut Butter Latte, that sounds great!” Perfect to sip on chilled nights and early mornings. We hope you enjoy this new adventure in brewing as much as we do.

==Introduction==

A White Stout?! And a Peanut butter one at that! The style is a pretty rare with the use of coffee, pale malts, and lactose gives the style some of the flavors of actual stouts but the appearance is golden like other beers. It is kind of a trick of the senses. Many of the golden stouts I have had before have been that, tastes like a stout, looks like a pale or golden beer. This one however, is the first one I have ever seen that uses other ingredients like peanut butter. While I cannot include the Red Velvet Stout from Ballast Point as a contender for Golden Stout as it is the same style but with red instead of gold, this is only for a beer that is golden in appearance. In fact, the style is awesome that I once took a shot in the dark and made a Golden Belgian Stout myself which turned out to be awesome. Anyways, the fact that this is the first of its kind it is definitely an intriguing one. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich peanut butter mocha, coffee, Danish cream, milk chocolate, vanilla, caramel, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, toffee, tiramisu, Cadburry Cream eggs, Frappuccino, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, flan, sweetened condensed milk, nutter butter cookies, cookie dough ice cream, mazapan, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, butterscotch, whipped cream and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies, Reese’s Pieces, vanilla, caramel, rye bread, biscuit bread, sweetened condensed milk, flan, marshmallows, chocolate marshmallow smores, white chocolate, whipped cream, Irish cream, Danish cream, Milk Chocolate shake, Milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, cherries, strawberries, butterscotch, almond milk, cashew milk, steamed milk, almond joy, marzipan, peanut brittle, nutter butter cookies, cookie dough ice cream, mazapan, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, mocha, Cadbury cream egg notes, maple syrup, hazelnut nectar, nutella, rocky road ice cream, frappuccino, stone fruit hints and captain crunch peanut butter cereal.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of sweet flavors of chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, marshmallow, peanut brittle, mazapan, caramel, Irish cream, mocha, white chocolate, and cookie dough ice cream. No alcohol in the taste, gold and clear body, smooth, creamy, velvety and refreshing mouthfeel along with an extremely easy drinkability.

Overall:
Ridiculously pastry of a beer! Peanut Butter Tiramasu essentially. I am not sure what it is about the coffee or the fact that it is a different style but still a milk stout, it takes what I loved about the original Peanut Butter Milk stout and amps it up to a higher level. Many people that love the Peanut Butter milk stout will definitely find this one to be a step above. Lots of dessert and nutty flavors and a lot of complexity. I highly recommend it and this one is a bucket lister in my book.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from the Naruto Series was used in this pairing since I would typically use one of my favorite characters to pair with a special beer that seems worthy. For this one, the blonde color of the stout for being a stout but a golden stout, pairs with Temari’s blonde hair. While Ninjas are quick and deadly, this beer is so sweet and smooth, you won’t notice anything until you finish the bottle in one sitting. Also, since ninjas are great at stealth, for this looking like a regular beer but tasting like a stout is a mind blow!

Sources:
http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/naruto-shippuden-ultimate-ninja-blazing/images/8/80/Portrait-0289.png/revision/latest?cb=20170211021007
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/03/09/19/56/15/55714339_p0.jpg
http://aikawaiichan.deviantart.com/art/Temari-Card-04-664655975
http://salojazz.deviantart.com/art/Temari-naruto-shippuden-664122563
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2014/01/23/15/20/27/41129113_p0.jpg

 

2017 Edition 120 Minute IPA by Dogfish Head

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

Rating: 6/6

2017 Edition 120 Minute IPA by Dogfish Head is a 16.5% Triple India Pale Ale

Label:
AGES WELL

What you have here is the holy grail for hopheads. This beer is continually hopped for over a 120 minute boil and then dry-hopped every day for a month. Enjoy now or age for a decade or so.

==Introduction==

It’s been literally years since I last tried this. In a time when I had the chance to try Dogfish Head Fort, and World Wide Stout, this one was there. All of the beers were up in the 18% ABV range which was ridiculous at the time. And were actually some of the strongest beers in the world. This one being the strongest IPA before Sink the Bismark came along. Although Sink The Bismark at 41%ABV (YES, 41%ABV) was highly rare and really unavailable. Today, it has yet to see a comeback. Nevertheless, DFH 120 still is one of the strongest IPAs in the world period. Let’s have a look at how this new release does. While I cannot compare to the original, I hope it keeps up to what my expectations were back then, cheers!

Aromas:
dark fruit cherries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, tropical fruit mango, kiwi, honey dew melon, stone fruit apricots, peaches, peach cobbler, peach preserves, orange preserves, orange peel, grapefruit, floral, piney, herbal, garlicky, and grassy dank hops, bourbon notes, raspberries, wild flower honey, rye bread, toffee, vanilla and caramel.

Flavors:
Oranges, Grapefruit, piney, floral, herbal, garlicky, and grassy dank hops, toffee, vanilla, biscuit bread, tangerines, caramel, maple hints, dark fruit cherries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, tropical fruit mango, kiwi, honey dew melon, stone fruit apricots, peaches, peach cobbler, peach preserves, orange preserves, grapefruit preserves, rye bread, sun dried apples, cane sugar, wild flower honey, sweetened condensed milk, three milk/ tres leches cake, pecan pie, caramel covered oranges, lemon candy, lime peel, candied grapefruit, butter scotch, leathery hints, mild bourbon notes, sherry wine, chardonnay, rasberry or some kind of special berries all through out.

Aftertaste:
Finishes very hop forward despite the ABV, Candied Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemon candy, grassy and garlicky dank hops, dark fruits, tropical fruits, stone fruits, caramel, butterscotch and pecan pie. Boozy aftertaste but not detracting from the flavors, amber honey light to medium body, crisp, refreshing, smooth, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A supremely exceptional beer! IT is definitely the epitome of IPAs While I would think this is more of a barley wine, the richer hop aspect is what keeps it in the IPA range. While this is an IPA that can age, it will most likely be more of an American barley wine later on. The complexity of this beer is ridiculous and it is definitely much in the range of what I typically love from special strong beers like this, Yet, the hop strength is super out there. There is a reason why hop heads adore this specialty brew even to this day. Do yourself a favor and get a bottle!

Anime Corner:
Yui Takamura from Muv-Luv Alternative Total Eclipse was used in this pairing as I used her to pair with the original in the original pairing of DFH 120. What I was going for back then was a bad ass looking character that pairs with the colors of the flavors and possibly the golden colors of the beer and the label. So bringing her back and expanding with more art was something I felt worked.

Sources:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tMLuTsu766Q/Vfg5aSBtv7I/AAAAAAAABKU/7SLIQXbygXA_sv8s22oPAWil3yJqcfM5ACE0/s1024/0148ce4827014b29a6227d17bc70a2907dcd8280fd.jpg
http://blog-imgs-85.fc2.com/s/e/i/seiroganmania/psuits1_15.jpg
http://blog-imgs-85.fc2.com/m/o/g/mogiero/71118040711201546.jpg
http://pre10.deviantart.net/984e/th/pre/i/2015/254/2/9/yui_takamura_by_comichan-d995sx5.png
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y240/xacur/Go_to_the_Top_Total_Eclipse-2.jpg~original

28th Anniversary Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad by Karl Strauss

by tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

28th Anniversary Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad by Karl Strauss is a 12.9% ABV Belgian Quadrupel aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Every year for our anniversary, we take a specialty beer and age it in bourbon barrels for twelve whole months. This year’s full-bodied Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad is rich and malty, with flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and charred oak. Aging the beer in Four Roses Bourbon barrels gives it a surprisingly smooth, warming finish. From 1989 to 2017 and beyond, we thank you for your support, and invite you to join in the celebration!

==Introduction==

I first tried this one when my friend Alex Alcaraz took me to Karl Strauss in downtown Los Angeles. When I had it, I was immediately blown away by its awesomeness. Granted, I had tried their Barrel Aged Belgian Dark Strong 2 years ago but have not posted information on it to the site. This time, they went with a Barrel Aged Quadrupel. Essentially, I remember seeing a bottle in their fridge, which I can only assume you can only purchase it through them directly. I did not think much of picking one up now and thought I can get one later. It wasn’t till later that night that I was like, I really, really need that bottle. So needless to say, I went back and got the bottle and now I can do a review for those that are interested. The Karl Strauss anniversary beers don’t often come out to the public so this was a perfect opportunity. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Oak, Vanilla, Dulce de Leche Caramel, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plums, dark cherries, piloncillo sugar cone, Mexican Capirotada raisin bread pudding, flan, cinnamon, fruit cake, Dark Candi Sugar, Rock candy, butterscotch, banana cream pie, pecan pie, marshmallows, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, Cadbury cream eggs, Chocolate mousse, wild flower honey, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, sweetened condensed milk, sweetened condensed milk and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich Dulce de Leche Caramel, Whiskey, Bourbon, Oak, Vanilla, toffee, toasted coconut, bananas, clove spice, Belgian Candy sugar, Dark Candi Sugar, Rock candy, butterscotch, banana cream pie, pecan pie, marshmallows, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, Cadbury cream eggs, sweetened condensed milk, hazelnut nectar, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plums, dark cherries, cherry yogurt, stone fruit peach, mango, figgy pudding, piloncillo sugar cone, Mexican Capirotada raisin bread pudding, flan, cinnamon, fruit cake, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, wild flower honey, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake and plantains.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with Rich caramel, vanilla, toasted coconut, banana cream pie, bourbon, oak, pecan pie, milk chocolate, Cadbury Cream eggs and dark fruit. Slight alcohol in the taste but definitely not detracting from the rich flavors at all, Crimson Amber clear body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Insane! Just like so many of the awesome Barrel Aged beers I have had in the past. I can probably compare it to Bruery or Firestone Walker level of awesomeness. Yes, Mofos forgot about Karls when Karls is still brewing some great awesome beers! More beers for the rest of us! While it is not a whale per se, it is in the whalez category of a “should be” coveted beer. Lots of great barrel character and the love of that Belgian quad flavors that I really love. I highly recommend you get this from them for sure, it is worth the price.

Anime Corner:
Rider from Fate Stay Night series was used in this pairing as I had used her in the previous Karl Strauss anniversary which I did not do a review of but this time around I wanted to bring her back. She represents the colors of the dark fruits which generally are a prominent flavor with these beers but also since she is powerful like the way this beer is strong in ABV. In general, the dark and barrel aged theme of the beer goes well with this one.

Sources:
https://i.imgur.com/AKo459v.jpg
https://i.warosu.org/data/tg/img/0499/19/1477252199393.jpg
https://laniemon.files.wordpress.com/2006/11/rider.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DVBFE34Z2HA/WPF6AGUjVuI/AAAAAAAATso/nHvBK5kT_mYWK_mhBCnudM0PYq2xRdt3gCJoC/w530-h741-p/__rider_fate_stay_night_and_fate_series_drawn_by_hijiri__4354352e56deab4ecbe2b3cc297438c5.jpg
http://orig03.deviantart.net/c5af/f/2017/057/0/a/fate_stay_night___rider__by_limdog-db0hjbz.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/nijilab/imgs/e/8/e8cae68e-s.jpg

That Orange Wrapper by Four Sons Brewing

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

Rating: 6/6

That Orange Wrapper by Four Sons Brewing is an 8.6 % ABV Imperial Stout brewed with peanuts and chocolate.

Label:
Brewed with peanuts and chocolate, producing a luxurious mouthfeel followed by a decadent finish.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one at Mr. K’s Liquor in front of the Bruery. I have never heard of this one but seeing as it was a peanut butter beer, I had to bring it to the site. Peanut Butter beers are something of a guilty pleasure for me and the more I find them, the more I want to bring them to the site to compare to other peanut butter brews. 4 sons has been a definite hit for me especially after the many I have tried from them like the Coco, their Anniversary brew and the Up on the Roof. That is why when I saw this one I had to bring it to the site. I definitely wanted to see how good their peanut butter beer was. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Chocolatey Peanut butter, roasted peanuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, almonds, Reeces Peanut butter cups, Peanut brittle, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, earthy hop notes, captain crunch peanut butter cereal, Cocoa Krispies, chocolate cake, rocky road ice cream, molasses, dark fruit currants, cherries, prunes, raisins, brownie batter, roasted coffee, mocha, espresso, vanilla, caramel and cookie dough.

Flavors:
Rich Reeces Pieces and Reeces Peanut butter cups, Peanut brittle, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, earthy hop notes, captain crunch peanut butter cereal, Cocoa Krispies, dark fruit currants, cherries, prunes, raisins, rye bread, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, chocolate mousse, fudge and peanut butter cake, brownie batter, roasted coffee, mocha, espresso, vanilla, caramel, roasted peanuts, rocky road, cookie dough and peanut butter ice cream, flan, toasted coconut hints, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, almonds, cashew hints, nutter butter cookies, peanut butter cheesecake and double chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with unsweetened peanut butter flavor and roasted and earthy peanuts, lots of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, dark fruit, vanilla, caramel and cookie dough ice cream. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn succulent! The peanut butter chocolate in the finish truly lasts for days. While I still love many of the other peanut butter beers I have had in the past, this one is damn insane. Like if they actually melted Reese’s peanut butter cups into the beer. It is insane! It is not a diabeetus cloying sweet beer but actually an earthy and roasty, real peanut butter taste. They really hit the nail on the head with this one and I highly recommend it!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill was used in this pairing mainly for the colors of the beer. I know she is mainly Red and Black but under the certain lighting, she can have some orange to her. That and I loved this beer so much, I brought one of my favorite anime girls to the site again. In a way, Senketsu (The sentient living clothing she wears) is almost like the wrapper holding the sweetness together.

Sources:
http://img00.deviantart.net/b3d5/i/2013/327/d/c/kill_la_kill_hq_render_ryuuko_transformed_fanart_by_oneexisting-d6vbeuj.png
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/816/877/fb4.jpg
http://static.acgdb.com/i/6f233a5bd2c651d3d4ca9ea64bb0590c89b167b5/wma1920/acgdb.com-6f233a5bd2c651d3d4ca9ea64bb0590c89b167b5.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/qRXrWtP.jpg

Sticks N’ Stones of the Stone Berlin Groundbreaking Collaboration Series #4 by Stone Brewing & The Lost Abbey

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

Rating: 6/6

Sticks N’ Stones of the Stone Berlin Groundbreaking Collaboration Series #4 by Stone Brewing & The Lost Abbey is an 8.3% ABV Dark Imperial Pilsner Finished on wood chips and granite

Label:
Series 4 of 14

Before the meaning of the name is revealed for that “ah-ha” moment, we must elaborate on the significance of the collaboration. Three key Stone brewers gathered together with long-time friend and Lost Abbey brewmaster Tomme Arthur in Berlin. There they collaborated on a beer representative of our presence in Germany and the craft beer crusade we have been on and never lost sight of despite all of the words of criticism. Too aggressive, too many hops, too expensive, too impossible to break into centuries of German tradition…all of that was just words. It didn’t break us. And here we are, two decades later with a foothold in Berlin and our fingertips on the international craft beer moment. In honor of that we brewed a dark imperial lager with a German yeast strain and partially aged it with wooden chips “sticks” in stone granite barrels. Ah-ha.

STYLE Dark Imperial Pilsner
ALC/VOL 8.3%
SPECIAL INGREDIENTS German yeast. Partially aged with wood chips in granite barrels

Tasting Notes:
An explosion of Dark toast followed by oaky vanilla and clove. Crisp and earthy.

Aroma:
Roast earthy and sweet oak, aromatics as a handful of Black Forest

Pairings:
Humboldt Fog cheese-stuffed medjool dates, balsamic glazed pork tenderloins, baklava, mushroom sesame udon

Our dream to be the first American craft brewery to independently build, own and operate a brewery in Europe has become a reality. Located in a historic 1901 building, our state of the art brewhouse and destination restaurant in the Mariendorf neighborhood is a true thing of beauty! As promised, we invited some of our best friends in craft brewing to create an exceptional series of celebratory beers. We hope you enjoy the international camaraderie that went into making these fourteen truly groundbreaking collaborations!

MIT STOLZ GEBRAUT IN BERLIN

==Introduction==

In 2014, Stone was raising money to open a brewery in Berlin, Germany. It would be the first time an American craft brewery would open up a business in Europe. For Germany who has Bavarian laws on the beer making process, craft beer would no coincide with their laws. However, Stone being some crazy arrogant bastards were able to make their way into the market and were successful to open up shop. At the time, I had donated money on promised collaborations with different breweries. Mainly some of the ones I like such as Brew Dog, Lost Abbey, The Bruery, Surly and even Devil’s Gate/Will Wheaton. So, with the donations I made in that year, I was wondering if I would ever see a return on my investment. Long behold, Stone contacted me to inform that they were going to release the beers and so today I bring Sticks N’ Stones.

A Lost Abbey Collaboration? What? Lost Abbey has been a brewery that got me into the artwork of beer labels and was there in the beginning of my craft beer adventures but so was Stone. The fact that they collaborated, which I believe is a first, is simply awesome. So when I first heard they were in on the Stone Berlin Project, I had to get this beer and bring it to the site. While I did not know what they would brew together, I was surprised it was a Dark Imperial Pilsner. It does seem like a rare style but also I had my slight doubts. This was only because pilsners, while very delicious, don’t always appeal to the esoteric beer drinkers so I was wondering if this would actually work. To my surprised, it was very good when I had a sample of it when I visited Stone Pasadena to get my bottle. Here’s the breakdown, cheers!

Aromas:
Belgian candy sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German chocolate, rye bread, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, marshmallow cream, toasted coconut hints, bananas, clove spice, trail mix, Neapolitan ice cream hints, dark cherries, earthy and herbal hops and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Neapolitan Ice Cream! Or at least the complexity makes it seem, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German chocolate, rye bread, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, cherries, strawberries, currants, figs, figgy pudding, dates, vanilla, oak, marshmallow cream, toasted coconut hints, bananas, clove spice, Belgian candy sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, capirotada raisins bread pudding, fruit cake, butterscotch notes, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, cinnamon, flan, ginger bread pudding, tapioca pudding, trail mix, dark cherry yogurt, rock candy, earthy and herbal hops.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with nice flavors caramel, oak, vanilla dark fruits, caramel, butterscotch, crème brulee and Neapolitan Ice cream. No alcohol in the taste, smooth, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A supremely exceptional pilsner. Even though to be honest, its more like a German Doppelbock but that’s the best part. I love Doppelbocks as they always have the dark fruit flavors. This oak imperial dark pilsner is very similar and with the oak whatever process they did to make it taste kind of like Neapolitan was what I definitely loved from this one. Very complex and well worth waiting several years for. Highly recommended if you can get this one!

Anime Corner:
Neopolitan from RWBY was used in this pairing since that was the flavor I essentially got when I first had this beer off the tap when picking up the stone collab, Neapolitan Ice cream! The name Stick N Stones is reminiscent of the quote “sticks n stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me”. For this pairing, that is why I got Neo with a skull, in relations to bones. In addition, Neo is deaf she she cannot really say anything to the effect of names to make fun of any one. I realized this pairing wen’t beyond just the flavor profile, so Neo was perfect for this.

Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8uzi06UwAIVcp2.png
http://68.media.tumblr.com/8a605ffa2baa9c950918f7786a27e2ae/tumblr_ogpw1dNLgp1r2x2amo1_1280.jpg
http://2static2.fjcdn.com/comments/You+and+i+seem+to+think+alike+i+cant+wait+_7fb9f1208b30ff669851f09755955448.jpg
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-12-24-879722.jpeg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/81/42/cc/8142cc7a94133ada0ce455ee4df1eeaf.jpg

No Ka Òï collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Anchorage

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

Rating:5/5

No Ka Òï collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Anchorage is a 6.3% ABV American Farm House ale brewed Michigan hops, raspberry puree and lime peel.

Label:
A birthday is just another today.
Today will be just like yesterday, tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be the same as today, just completely different.
I brewed this special beer for my friend Gabe’s 40th birthday on the suggestion of his wife Jacenda. Two finer people the likes of which I have never known.

Òhana

==Introduction==

No Ka Òï, in reference to Anchorage, means “is the best!” In this case, Anchorage is the best! I obtained this beer at Mr. K’s Liquor store in Placentia California. It has been a long time since I had a Jolly Pumpkin beer but since I saw this one, the label artwork really stood out to me with the crazy cat skeleton carrying the pumpkin and the animals that follow. The other thing that really caught my eye was the use of raspberries and lime peel and this was so damn unique I wanted to bring it to the site. So let’s have a look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit mango, peach, tart apricot, sour apple, flowers, hibiscus, roses, Raspberries, Lime peel, Lime zest, funky oak notes, wine grapes, tropical fruit dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, strawberry, honey dew melon, brettanomyces, grapefruit, honey, herbal, grapefruit and grassy hop notes.

Flavors:
Rich flowers, hibiscus, roses, Raspberries, Lime peel, Lime zest, Lime juice, biscuit bread, stone fruit mango, peach, tart apricot, sour apple, tropical fruit dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, strawberry, honey dew melon, funky grapes, mushrooms, farmhouse hay, banana hints, citrus, orange peel, grassy, piney and earthy hops, white wine notes, tomato hints, pink peppercorns, wild flower honey, brettanomyces and grapefruit juice.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with stone fruit, tropical fruit notes, lemon, lime, floral notes, peppercorns, funky notes, farmhouse hay and rich raspberries. No alcohol in the taste, hazy pale medium body. Crisp, refreshing, effervescent and smooth mouthfeel along with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Jolly Pumpkin always makes some of the best and flavorful sours and this one is damn perfect. That and I am a sucker for raspberry beers. While it is tarter than anything, the fruit sweetness is minimal but still balances well with the overall brew. I think my favorite thing over all is the ingredients like the hops though as they actually come through in the beer where as some sours this typically is easier said than done. You can definitely do no wrong with this one. Highly recommended

Anime Corner:
Aile from Megaman ZX was used in this pairing as I found a really nice art piece that shows Aile with pumpkins and the colors fit so well with the colors of the label and the ingredients as well. The pinks, reds and oranges are the ones that stood out so overall it was the colors that won the pairing for me.

Sources:
http://orig10.deviantart.net/dea9/f/2009/347/0/4/trick_or_treat_by_just_spectator.jpg
http://img02.deviantart.net/7090/i/2013/137/f/8/blue_summer_by_tomycase-d65kfp6.png
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/f4/b0/a7/f4b0a79f475569a659c628bac84f6aa2.jpg

Saule (9th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

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

Rating: 6/6

Saule (9th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 16.1% ABV Old Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
This sturdy beer marks our ninth year, brewed as a testament to time with toots reaching back to our very beginning. May our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

Our ninth anniversary ale, Saule, deeply rooted in the tradition of our anniversary releases before it – loosely based on an English-style old ale, fermented with our house yeast strain, aged in bourbon barrels and blended using the solera method for storied complexity as the years go by. Saule will not willow with age – it will age gracefully when cellared properly.

==Introduction==
Saule or “Willow” in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 9th year in which Willow, Leather or Pottery are given. The beer was released in May 2017 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 9 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:
Belgian Candi sugars, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, Dulce de leche caramel, Cadbury cream eggs, Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, marshmallows, Grilled Bananas, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, toffee, butterscotch, nutmeg, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, Danish cream, rocky road ice cream, rye bread, chocolate cherry cordials, and stone fruit peaches.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Cadbury cream eggs, Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, vanilla, oak bourbon, Belgian Candi sugars, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, chocolate cake, waffle cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding , tiramasu, chocolate truffles, marshmallows, 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, wild flower honey, stone fruit peaches and cream, chocolate fruit cake, brown sugar, dark candi sugar, rock candy, campfire smores, rocky road ice cream and crème brulee.

Aftertaste:
Rich flavorful finish of dulce de leche caramel, raspberry liqueur tiramisu, 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:
Every year it seems to get more and more phenomenal. While the overall is still the awesome and insane beer I tried so many years ago, I think the more the beer keeps aging and being added to the original batch, it brings out something more complex. I wonder if the palate can actually detect something that has never been tasted and I have yet to see this but I am curious just how this will evolve. Regardless, you can never go wrong with getting this year after year.

Anime Corner:
Hana Song (송하나) a.ka. D.VA from Overwatch was used in this pairing similarly to the way I have used special suit anime characters. While only few of the label colors pair with D. VA, her overall colors pair with the flavors of dark fruits. While she does not looks like a willow/saule, her colors are similar to that of Willow from the movie with the blues and reds.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/7f/8a/20/7f8a2021a01e7735f091426b06f29019.jpg
https://wallpapers.wallhaven.cc/wallpapers/full/wallhaven-454637.jpg
https://prettyuglylittleliar.net/uploads/monthly_2016_07/image.jpeg.5b480c95eccad414c657a57a86398a47.jpeg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/DmvgmYvnPbY/maxresdefault.jpg
https://static.acg12.com/uploads/2017/03/61962b87a73d4c001c12703e3100eca9.jpg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-cNkFcwJJEg/maxresdefault.jpg
http://orig12.deviantart.net/0ffb/f/2016/223/3/c/untitled_1_by_limdog-dadg2cz.png

2016 Hoarders Cuvee by The Bruery Terreux

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

Rating: 5.5/6

2016 Hoarders Cuvee by The Bruery Terreux is a 12% Sour Blonde ale aged in oak barrels with Honey, and Wheatwine ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Coconut, Hibiscus, Rose Hips and White Pepper

Label:
An invitation to join our Hoarders Society is the ultimate nod in how far you’ve come in your craft beer journey. Each year as a member, you get access to some of the most elusive and exclusive beers (such as this) and one-of-a-kind experiences, like going toe-to-toe with your peers in blending sessions exclusive to Hoarders.

This Cuvee is as dynamic as the members it competed against to gain top bragging rights in the Hoarders Cuvee blending tournament and be produced by Bruery Terreux in 2016. Designed by Hoarders Society members Kyle Landig, Paul Moore, Cory Townsend and Andy Williams, this Cuvee begins with one of the cornerstones of Bruery Terreux – our oak-aged sour blonde ale. We then premier a new ingredient in a packaged product for the first time in our company’s history: honey. Together with coconut, these two catapult the rich, barrel character found in our bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine ale, which is the second beer in the blend. Hibiscus, rose hips and white pepper balance the oaky, sweet and sour profile, adding a degree of spice and herbal characteristics to the dynamic blend.

==Introduction==

I obtained this beer from the Bruery Reserve as they were having a sale and happened to allow a Hoarders beer to be purchased. While I did try the Bruery’s version of the Cuvee, now I bring forth the Terreux version of the 2016 Cuvee. Amazingly, the Cuvee from the Bruery was far up there as being a one of the best I have ever had. I hope I can say the same for this one. Let’s take a look and see if it is worth seeking out, cheers!

Aromas:
Floral notes of hibiscus, rose notes, lavender, honey, tropical fruit, stone fruit, mild toasted coconut, wine grapes, biscuit bread, vanilla, toasted coconut, chocolate hints and bourbon oak.

Flavors:
Rich oak, Lemon peel, hibiscus, roses, floral hops, lavender, honey, Bourbon, toasted coconut, stone fruit peach apricot, lychee, biscuit bread, vanilla, cocada Mexican coconut candy notes, sweetened condensed milk, strawberries, kiwi, cherries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee fruit, cane sugar, sour apples, wine grapes, Chardonnay, raspberries, white chocolate notes, oranges, tangerine hints, super lactic funk and white wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with floral notes, coconut, lemon peel, vanilla, oak, honey, oranges, hibiscus, strawberries and biscuit bread. No Alcohol in the taste, clear rose and golden body, crisp, refreshing and effervecent mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
While it is exceptional and very delicious, I think the balance is the only thing that keeps it from being at the highest it could be. It is mainly tart and the sweetness is here and there but you can still tell there is a lot of complexity in this one. While I feel many who love sours will definitely enjoy this one, if you mainly love sours for its extreme sourness, then this one is an awesome one for you.

Anime Corner:
Aeris Gainsborough from Final Fantasy VII was chosen in this beer since I have yet to review a beer with Aeris but mainly since her colors fit well with the colors and ingredients of the beer. This beer is full of flowers and Aeris is a flower girl so I figure it was the most perfect pairing especially a beer such as this one, the golden cuvee.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/Z7iVoXe.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/76/d5/a1/76d5a1334bf885972c8dec13d4511e32.jpg
http://img2.yiihuu.com/860X860/upimg/courses/2016/04/19/1-1461034043-529785.jpg?auto=h
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/images/6/6c04/6c049fbc/100568/aerith-gainsborough.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/93/b9/b7/93b9b7af4b08eab0082ac228b2d2a8b2.jpg

Stone Barrel Aged Milk Chocolate Porter by Stone brewing

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

Rating: 6/6

Stone Barrel Aged Milk Chocolate Porter by Stone brewing is a 9.6% ABV Imperial Sweet/Milk Porter brewed with lactose and chocolate aged in Bourbon, Reposado Tequila and Red Wine Barrels.

Description:
Tasting Notes: Malty nose, with lots of chocolate and red wine barrel coming through strong on the aroma. First sip is big red wine barrel again, along with soft malt sweetness, milk chocolate, and tons of vanilla from the bourbon barrel. The tequila barrel comes through mid-palate and on the aftertaste, along with flavors reminiscent of a chocolate covered tart cherry. This is a full bodied, flavorful dessert beer, great for beer lovers who also love chocolate and red wine together!

==Introduction==

Sold only on draft/crowler at this time from the brewery or Stone Stores. I obtained this one when I went to pick up the Stone and Lost Abbey collaboration they did in Berlin from the Stone Pasadena store. While I found this interesting by name, it wasn’t until I found out more about it and tried it that I was sold to get a whole crowler and bring information on what this beer is all about. The fact that it is a triple barrel aged milk porter was definitely something I wanted for sure. The best part sometimes is that Stone doesn’t limit what they have to offer (Not Including the Quingenti Series) when it comes to one offs that are on tap and are typically an awesome treasure that may not hit the public. Few are so lucky but for those I do find, I will try to bring them to the site. Now, let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Wine grapes, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cranberries, pomegranates, dark cherries, tobacco, leather, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, Port wine, oak, bourbon, vanilla, toasted coconut, Marshmallow smore, Tequila, Agave, Mezcal, Vampiro, Sangria, piloncillo sugar cone, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, burnt chocolate, coffee, mocha and Kahlua coffee liqueur.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, burnt chocolate, coffee, mocha, Kahlua coffee liqueur, sour funk, wine grapes, toasted coconut, Marshmallow smores, smokey oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche chocolate, toffee, BBQ notes, Tequila, Agave, Mezcal, Vampiro, Sangria, piloncillo sugar cone, Port wine, Dark fruit raisins, prunes, cranberries, pomegranates, dark cherries, licorice, anise, molasses, banana, clove spice, burnt sugar, rock candy, tobacco, leather, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and flan notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of oak, smokey and funky, rich earthy chocolate, bourbon, tequila, caramel, dark fruits, wine and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Super complex and supremely exceptional beer showcasing notes from all the different barrels that I love beer aged with. The wine oak barrel provides it an overall tartness but works so damn well with the other complex flavors and barrels. It is a mix of sweet and tart with mild smoke and oaky goodness. I hope they release this to the public but for now, I highly recommend this one if you can get it on tap at Stone or one of their Stone Stores.

Anime Corner:
Krystal Fox from Star Fox was used in this pairing mainly for the colors or dark fruits and the dark smoothness. There really wasn’t too much else other that I really wanted to pair such an awesome rare beer with my favorite Star Fox vixen. Like the Sangrileche beer I made in the past, this beer is as dark as space!

Sources:
http://cs8.pikabu.ru/post_img/big/2017/01/21/11/1485027491260964489.png
http://orig09.deviantart.net/a072/f/2015/246/a/3/krystal_pinup_by_sallyhot-d9873qx.jpg
https://img.fireden.net/v/image/1445/66/1445667801724.png
http://68.media.tumblr.com/3ac1ef6ef81e753e1fb77afaf10fe9dd/tumblr_olvxv6EotA1s2m89po2_1280.jpg

Beret with Peaches and Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux

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

Rating: 6/6

Beret with Peaches and Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux is an 8.9% ABV Imperial Wit ale brewed with spices and aged in oak with Raspberries, Peaches and Vanilla.

Label:
Peachy – Keen – Sweet

Commercial Description:
Beret has been a staple in our lineup since Bruery Terreux launched in 2015. While the classic release of our spiced, imperial sour witbier aged in oak with raspberries has an enduring and endearing sense of style, we felt it was time to start weaving in a few new threads. Peaches and vanilla provided a peachy keen sweetness to cast the fruity personality of the refreshing, piquant ale in an all new artistic light.

==Introduction==

Released to all Bruery Societies, this is the Beret Raspberry sour but with peaches and vanilla. Last year’s version was pretty awesome and it was a sour I haven’t had in a long time. While sours from the Bruery have been getting better as the years go by, I still have to try the sours before I get them. Unless it has some ingredients I really like, then I will get it but since this came with the Preservation package, it was a great way to gage the beer. You may actually get this one by purchasing on their online store www.thebruerystore.com while they still have it. Let’s take a look at this, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit apricots, peaches, biscuit bread, raspberries, wheat bread, coriander, brettanomyces, funky fruit, musty grapes, mandarins, tangerines, mango, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, oak caramel and honey.

Flavors:
Rich Peach Cobbler, Fuzzy Navel, Peach and Raspberry smoothy, stone fruit apricots, wine grapes, vanilla, toffee, caramel, oak, raspberries, strawberries, Concorde grapes, currants, cranberries, floral notes of lavender, hibiscus, tart fruit skins, wheat bread, coriander, brettanomyces, funky fruit, clove spice, musty grapes, mandarins, tangerines, mango, waffle cone, marshmallow hints, peach and vanilla cheesecake, chardonnay, sweetened condensed milk, honey, peppercorns, bananas, yerba buena spearmint, old oranges, lemon zest, lemon juice and lemon candies.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with over layering stone fruit peach, raspberry, vanilla, whipped cream hints, white grapes and oak. No alcohol in the taste, hazy golden peach medium body, crisp, refreshing, mild creamy and smooth mouthfeel along with moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Liquid Tart Fuzzy Navel in a bottle! This sour was better than I expected and this is definitely the sour to get. While the sour aspects are overlying due to the fruit, the sweetness of that same fruit is what I love and the vanilla works with it super well. I am not sure if this will reach details but this one is a recommendation worth seeking.

Anime Corner:
Lina Inverse from Slayers was used in this pairing as she seems to fit greatly with the colors of the label and the beer overall. Lina is a character I have not used in a long time and a favorite of mine. Since I have done a lot of Bruery beers, doing the pairings with at least one Anime character that I know of or fits well is definitely an accomplishment.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b8/b2/b5/b8b2b5b347cd0542222f715aa316f6ba.jpg
http://i1074.photobucket.com/albums/w408/a86680572/17/3139.jpg~original
https://img.fireden.net/a/image/1469/98/1469980206919.jpg

Share This O.C. by The Bruery

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

Rating: 6/6

Share This O.C. by The Bruery is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout with Orange zest, Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
LEND A HAND

We donate $1 for each bottle we produce in our Share This series. This orange chocolate release supports the mission of Food Forward which donates fresh produce to hunger relief agencies in Southern California, including Orange County.

Share This is a series of beer that spotlights unique ingredients and important causes. This rich imperial stout is inspired by orange and chocolate flavors. It’s a profile we’re quite fond of, given the abundance of orange trees in our own backyard. Food Forward takes one step further – reaching over 100, 000 people a month with recovered fresh produce.

==Introduction==

The 3rd beer in the Share This series brings some local ingredients of Southern California to the flavors of an awesome stout. The previous beers in this series have been amazing and I can only hope the next one is just as awesome or better. The best thing about this series is that with everyone that is purchased, you are donating for a good cause and so don’t just take it from me but find out how these beers are and know you are helping people in need. Let’s take a look and see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Chocolate Orange creamsicle, Orange Mocha, graham crackers, Danish cream, Irish cream, peach cobbler, tres leches/3 milks cake, marshmallows, chocolate smores, orange sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, orange mint, chocolate milk shake, dark chocolate and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate and Orange creamsicle, tangerines, candied orange hints, fruity pebbles, dulde de leche caramel, flan, orange preserves, peach preserve notes, peach cobbler, tres leches/3 milks cake, egg nog, orange chocolate milk shake, Orange Bang, cinnamon, coriander spice, orange tang, Danish cream, Irish cream, Orange Mocha, graham crackers, earthy hop notes, rye bread, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, marshmallows, chocolate smores, orange sweetened condensed milk, Chocolate and Baileys Irish cream, hazelnut nectar, peppermint york patty, tapioca pudding, orange cheese cake, anise, molasses, orange mint and cocoa powder.

Aftertaste:
Finish with rich flavor of Chocolate Orange cordials, dark chocolate, caramel, marshmallow smores, chocolate orange bundt cake, hazelnut caramel and vanilla sweetness. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, Dark Full body, creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Pure Chocolate Orange Creamsicle bliss. This beer is insane! A true chocolate and orange cordial type of dessert. While the main factor for the rating is that they got this sweet and yet balanced beer to be the way a dessert is, but also managed to break out some great complexity as well. You can’t even taste that alcohol despite it being so high and yet it drinks so damn smooth. As always, the Bruery making magic. This is a public release so make sure you get this one, I highly recommend it!

Anime Corner:
Quetzalcoatl from Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to choose a character that would work with the colors of the label but also the colors of some of the ingredients. Sharing is caring and in some innuendoes ways counts too. I’ll leave that to your imagination.

Sources:
http://animeerogazo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/nizi_miss-kobayashis-dragon-maid-16.png
http://animeerogazo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/nizi_miss-kobayashis-dragon-maid-6-2.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4wqiNUWAAAV7aK.jpg
https://68.media.tumblr.com/8a1635d189f5f13524fb22c1c7e68071/tumblr_omqhy5RfY71s2qcrdo1_1280.png

Bourbon Barrel Old Strangler by Garage Brewing

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

Rating: 6/6

Bourbon Barrel Old Strangler by Garage Brewing is a 12.1% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
We believe in making our fresh craft beer from only the finest ingredients. And guess what? It’s really good! This flavorful beer developed from a recipe during our humble beginnings just got turned up a notch flavored in aged bourbon barrels.

==Introduction==

I have yet to try the Old Strangler but when I saw that Garage Brewing was making a Bourbon Barrel aged stout, I had to try it. I love different styles of beers but when those styles are married with different spirit based barrels, I always look to trying them as the majority of the time enhances the original recipe into new flavor heights. Since I have yet to try a Barrel Aged beer from Garage Brewing, this was the best opportunity for me to proceed. Let’s see how it is, cheers!

Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, oak, vanilla, whiskey, bourbon, mocha, roasted coffee notes, anise, licorice, earthy notes, dark chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, dark cherries, raspberry, currants, almond joy chocolates, toasted coconut, crème brulee, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, marshmallow cream and hazelnut.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, brownie batter, Irish cream, Danish cream, flan, crème brulee, dark fruits like raisins, dark cherries, raspberry, currants, plums, figs,vanilla, Oak, Dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallow smores, Khalua Liquer, mocha, roasted coffee, Licorice, Anise, Molasses, Whiskey, bourbon, leather, tobacco, rye bread, rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar notes, earthy notes, coffee cake, banana hints, sweetened condensed milk, graham crackers, tiramasu notes, almond joy chocolates and triple chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of oaky notes, whiskey, anise notes, dark chocolates, toasted coconut, cherries, flan, mocha and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, Dark full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel with an easy to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional! Like the many awesome bourbon barrel aged stouts I have had before. Whatever special barrels they are using in this one, I can tell it is unique almost like the High West barrels. The alcohol is not in your face and gives way to very awesome complexity. That being said, it is one that is definitely worth picking up and highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Cidney Aurum from Final Fantasy XV was used in his pairing to mainly pair with the color of the label but mainly with the fact that she is mechanic and this beer looks as pitch black and viscous as motor oil. Essentially, bringing the theme of working on a car as well as needing a beer.

Sources:
http://att.bbs.duowan.com/forum/201703/16/021354bm6cibmltc6leism.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/zggesWi.jpg
https://cdna.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/005/328/364/large/frank-lee-cindy.jpg?1490231917

Candy Sours Series – Orange Slice by Valiant brewing

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

Rating: 6/6

Candy Sours Series – Orange Slice by Valiant brewing is a 4% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with Orange Slice Candies

Label:
Candy Sour Beers! What else will we think of? Our team was let loose in the brewery and came up with a unique twist of combining a Wild Sour Ale with the sweet enjoyable flavors of candies that we call our “Candy Sours”.

In this limited series, Orange Slice Sour brings the world of sweet and sour to your senses. Tangy, Orange and crisp citrus flavors make this a drink you can’t put down.

==Introduction==

After trying the Peach Rings and Silly Straws, I decided to go back to Mr. K’s Liquor to get more of the other types from the Candy Sour series. Unfortunately, this was the only one they had and what’s worse is that in March 2017, Valiant Brewing had closed their doors. So the likelihood of ever seeing the other ones like Gummy Worms or Watermelon Patch Sour was very unlikely. It is what it is and while I feel some treasures are meant to be lost, it is my duty to at least bring some of these treasures to light. So let’s have a look at what this one has to offer, Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of orange candies, cane sugar, honey, lemon candy, tangerines, biscuit bread and tart grapes.

Flavors:
Rich Orange Candy slices, cane sugar, honey, tangerine gummies, orange peel, Tampico Orange juice, biscuit bread, grape notes, mango notes, pineapple and kiwi.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with slight notes of orange candy linger, biscuit bread and grape tartness. No alcohol in the taste, golden light body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthful with a ridiculously easy drinkability.

Overall:
YEP, just like the other ones, taste exactly like liquid Orange Slice Candies. Although, definitely not as sour as the previous ones. In fact, the sweetness of candy oranges and tartness works super well. Ridiculously to the point that I am tempted to drink the whole thing in one go. Aside from its ridiculous drinkability ofcourse which generally just adds to the “drink the whole thing” factor. I highly recommend it if you can still find it!

Anime Corner:
Nico Niiyama from Kiznaiver was used in this pairing as I wanted wanted to show case the candy sour of Orange slices with a character that has similar colors to oranges but also has a theme of candy and long behold I felt Nico was the perfect fit.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Niiyama.Niko.full.2006329.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b9/81/1b/b9811be188754bd8c5260514e4040a69.jpg
https://images6.alphacoders.com/769/769603.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Niiyama.Niko.full.2006348.jpg

Isabella Blonde by Kern River Brewing

by tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Isabella Blonde by Kern River Brewing is a 4.5% ABV American Blonde Ale.

Label:
This Blonde Ale has an easy malt body and a mild hop aroma produced by traditional English hops. The light straw color and crisp finish make this an easy drinking beer that’s great for those hot summer days. If you are looking for great taste and good times, don’t settle for just any blonde, choose Isabella Blonde!

==Introduction==

I obtained this one from Craftbeerkings.com as I had requested to exchange an out of stock beer for anything. I have never tried this one or Kern River beers in general but I figure this would be a great opportunity to try some of their offerings. It also would be good to compare this to the homebrewed blonde I recently made to see if the style seems to be in order as well. While many people have different preferences in styles, blondes and light beers are great for the everyday type. Let’s see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Lemon grass, pilsner grain, floral hops, biscuit bread, honey, citrus, orange and mild grassy notes.

Flavors:
Pilsner grain, cereal notes, cane sugar, biscuit bread, honey, light toffee, grassy mild hops, green tea, lemon grass, crackers, grapefruit, piney and grassy mild hops, orange notes, orange peel, lychee, tangerine hints and coriander hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with notes of pilsner malt, grassy mild hops and a touch of honey. No alcohol in the taste. Clear light golden body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very good blonde! Super summer refreshing style. In comparison to the blonde I made, it is different. While my homebrew is more tropical and hoppy due to the mosaic, this one is nice and citrucy with pilsnery aspects. Essentially a very drinkable brew that I think many will like even if they do not drink craft beer. A recommendation for sure.

Anime Corner:
Carol Danvers A.K.A Ms. Marvel from Marvel Comics was chosen in this pairing mainly to play the part of the blonde in the label. I wanted to find a blonde that was powerful and inspiring which represents a good beer.

Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/17966499633463155426.jpg?w=1600&v=sgPhJovohHcXnwe75J2CpHNGUrJeJTd7kqbNnklZlcM%3D

2017 Chocolate Rain by the Bruery

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment
Rating 6/6
 
2017 Chocolate Rain by the Bruery is an 19.6% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with TCHO Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Essentially the Bruery’s Black Tuesday with Cocoa Nibs and Vanilla Beans. I have reviewed this many times but I still like doing pairings with one of my favorite characters from Bleach, Yoruichi Shihouin. This year with the release of the Chocolate Rain sign, it was a perfect occasion for another pairing. Cheers!
 

Chernyy Medved Collaboration by Valiant and Black Market Brewing

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

Rating: 5/5

Chernyy Medved Collaboration by Valiant and Black Market Brewing is a 13% ABV Russian Imperial Stout brewed with Cherries and Vanilla

Label:
A powerful and fearless Russian Imperial Stout brewed in collaboration with our comrades at Black Market Brewing in Temecula CA. Chernyy Medved was brewed in tribute to the OC Brew Ho Ho Holiday Ale Festival which takes place in December in Orange County CA. Brewed with smoked wood, pine, vanilla, cherries and coming in at 13% ABV this intense black beauty will warm you right up this winter or will cellar nicely to be enjoyed in the years to come.
==Introduction==

Cerny Medved or Black Bear was a beer my friend Neal provided me as a trade for some homebrews. Valiant Brewing was a brewery that recently closed in March 2017, essentially, last month. So some of these beers are so limited that you might not see them again. I had only recently got into their brews especially their Candy Sours series. It is unfortunate we will not have them again but let us look at how at this one and see what it was all about, Cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, molasses, anise, dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Dark fruit raisins, currants, Cherries, Earthy and smokey oak notes, flan, vanilla, cherry crème brulee, strawberry, tootsie roll chocolate and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Chocolate Mousse, Dark fruit raisins, currants, Cherries, Earthy and smokey oak notes, earthy hop bitterness, burnt sugar, roasted coffee, molasses, anise, flan, vanilla, cherry crème brulee, strawberry and cherry cheese cake, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, brown sugar, tootsie roll chocolate, Cherry Chocolate milk, hazelnut nectar and cherry cake fudge chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with roasty chocolate, earthy and smoky notes, cherry notes, vanilla, caramel, toffee earthy hop bitterness and caramel. No alcohol in the taste despite the 13% ABV, smooth. Creamy and velvety mouthfeel, dark full body, with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
An awesome perfect stout. Very Roasty and flavorful like many of the Russian Imperial Stouts I have had before. The cherry flavors this one introduces pairs well with the roasty flavors and vanilla. While I do not think this is at the strongest in terms of the Choco Cherry Cordial beers, but it is a cherry cordial in its own sense. Not as sweet, but earthy and balanced. I would highly recommend checking this one if you can still find it.

Anime Corner:
Birdy Cephon Altera from Birdy The Mighty and Kneesocks Daemon from Panty and Stocking W/Garterbelt were used in this pairing as I wanted to mainly go with the colors of cherries and while I don’t think Birdy is Russian or a bear, I mainly paired for the colors and ingredients of the beer. Kneesocks on the other hand is much closer to the dark red cherry color so bringing her here works awesomely.

Sources:
http://cdn30.us1.fansshare.com/image/birdythemighty/birdy-the-mighty-512466661.jpg
http://cdn26.us1.fansshare.com/photo/birdythemightydecode/birdy-the-mighty-decode-shared-image-unknown-1334427343.jpg
http://www.zastavki.com/pictures/originals/2013/Anime_Birdy_the_Mighty_053034_.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/iamsukebe/imgs/5/3/53ff0cb2.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Birdy.Cephon.Altera.full.73854.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Birdy.Cephon.Altera.full.73861.jpg
http://i57.beon.ru/45/32/793245/79/64651079/14873385.jpeg