Voodoo Doughnut Mango Astronaut Ale by Rogue Brewing

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

Rating: 4/5

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

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

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

Food Pairing: Desert, Doughnuts

Specs:

113.5° PLATO

20 IBU

71 AA

15 ° Lovibond

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rating: 5/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Error Establishing Database Connection■ by Cigar City (Final Review of 2015)

December 31, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 404, cacao nibs, cigar city, Cognac Barrels, English Barleywine, Error Establishing Database Connection, Glitches, orange peel, Sgt. Tamora Calhoun, Vanellope Von Schweetz, Wreck-It-Ralph | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Error Establishing Database Connection■ by Cigar City is a � � %ABV English Barleywine with orange peel and cacao nibs added and aged in Cognac Barrels

Label:
404 Beer Info Cannot Be Found ■

==Introduction==

\\Animebeers.com I/O
BeerReview.XML ()

FINAL12312015: There was an error establishing this beer to the website. Many attempts have been made to obtain the necessary data to obtain the beer from host server CigarCity.com. A proper Beer protocol has responded from URL www.mybeercollectibles.com at a low cache transmission. Please proceed with caution as the available log shows the results of the search in details.

Abort Retry or Cancel?
Retrying in 3, 2, 1……

Aromas:
Chocolate Green Tea, Orange Creamcicle, Chocolate Orange Fruit Cake, orange blossom flowers, honey, mint, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, anise, cognac, honey, oak, mandarine orange preserves, rye bread, agave nectar, dark fruit boysenberries, plum, cloudberries, currants, dark cherries, hazelnut nectar, marshmallows, vanilla, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie and wne notes.

Flavors:
Orange and Chocolate Fruit cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, fancy coffee, mocha, orange cream cicle, dark fruit boysenberries, plum, cloudberries, currants, dark cherries, blueberry muffins, raisins oatmeal cookies, juniper berries, cognac, oak, marshmallows, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, orange blossom flowers, honey, mint, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, Oolong Tea, Earl Grey Tea, Jasmine tea, green tea ice cream, anise, molasses, absinthe, licorice, Bergamot Oranges, Sweet Limes (Limas), Agave nectar, port wine, fennel, peat moss, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, mandarin orange and tangerine preserves on toasted rye bread.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some rich dark fruit flavors, herbal teas, oranges, citrus, port wine, cognac, earthy notes, chocolate, oak, and vanilla. No alcohol in the aftertaste, Full brown body, muddy, milky, creamy and smooth mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Executing process: Bucket List.
Well, enough of the IT and computer lingo. This beer is on some other level of flavors. It is super damn unique but also doesn’t seem to stay in one place at once. By that I meant the flavors keep evolving into something it is not. Biting into an Apple but getting orange flavors then peach. Crazy unstable by exceptionally delicious stuff. This beer speaks volumes of uniqueness. So much complex flavors but mainly in so many unique tangents of palette experience. For choosing this one as the last beer of the year, I think I did a very good job. Just an epitome to the ever changing craft beer landscape along with people’s palates as well as the fusion of the culinary with the brewing processes. Highly Recommended and See You Next Brew Year! Happy holidays to you and yours.

Anime Corner:
Vanellope Von Schweetz and Sgt. Tamora Calhoun from Disney’s Wreck-It-Ralph were used in this pairing as I always wanted use them in a beer review for the longest time. What a great way to pair them with a Computer based beer that screams glitches and null errors. Just like Vanellope’s Data Anomalous characteristics. Complimentary to this superposition beer. Like Vanellope’s glitching that keeps providing unexpected events in the movie, this beer keeps changing and providing so many expected twists and turns. The unknown strength of this beer is what she is basically capable. Sgt. Tamora Calhoun was added to the beer as well as she is like the Samus bounty Hunter-esque character in the movie. I think she fits right into this one for cyber space and the ever changing video game landscape.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Vanellope.von.Schweetz.full.1381424.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/87cb/f/2013/114/5/8/vanellope_von_schweetz_by_squigi-d62va1u.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Wreck-it.Ralph.full.1723274.jpg

2015 Chocolate Salty BBLS by the Bruery

December 31, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Aeris Gainsborough, Barret Wallace, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Cait Sith, Chef, Chef Aid, Chocolate Salty Balls, Chocolate Salty BBLS, Cid Highwind, Cloud Strife, Fina Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy 7, Imperial Stout, Red XIII, Salt, South Park, The Bruery, Tifa Lockhart, vanilla beans, Vincent Valentine, Yuffie Kasaragi | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 Chocolate Salty BBLS by the Bruery is a 16.4% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans, Cacao Nibs and Salt Added.

Label:
CHEF’S SURPRISE
A luxurious confection of sweet and savory.

Chocolate Salty BBLs is bold and salty and brown. Chocolate Salty BBLs gives you a savory , sweetmeat experience meant for sharing with friends.

==Introduction==

Two tables spoons of cinnamon…. and 2 or 3 egg whites …..a half a stick of butter…. mmm melted…. Stick it all in a bowl baby… Stir it with a wooden spoon…. mix in a cup of flour….. you’ll be in heaven soon… Say everybody have you seen this beer its big and salty and brown, if you ever need to pick… this one up… just go the Bruery NOW!! Ooohhh go get some Chocolate Salty BBLs… pour them in a glass and suck em!

LMAO!!!
Okay, but seriously though, pretty bold move from the Bruery on this one. It is an awesome feeling to have a South Park beer though. This one was released from the Bruery exclusively to Reserve and Hoarders members so unless you are willing to trade or out right buy, that will be the only way to get this one. This one seems like Chocolate Rain with salt and lower ABV but I guess I will have to see exactly what going down on these BBLs will be like. Wish me luck and cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark and milk chocolate, bourbon, salted caramel, oak, vanilla, Whiskey, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, Kahlua Liqueur, mocha, chocolate mousse, dark fruit raisins, plum, figs, raspberries, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, fudge brownies, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, fudge brownies, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, toasted coconut, port wine, cherry chocolate cordials, toffee, cinnamon, Cookie Dough Ice cream, choco flan and smores chocolate.

Flavors:
Salted caramel, Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toffee, Bourbon, Oak, Whiskey, Cookie Dough Ice cream, choco flan, Kahlua Liqueur, chocolate covered funnel cake, milk shake, black currants, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, fudge brownies, dark fruit raisins, plum, figs, raspberries, rocky road ice cream, mocha, coffee, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, fudge brownies, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, toasted coconut, hazelnut, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, rye bread, cherry cordials and port wine hints.

Aftertaste:
Mild Salty aftertaste, caramel, chocolate, dark fruit, flan, oak, bourbon, brown sugar, white fudge, chocolate fudge and port wine. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Pitch black with brown lacing full body, smooth, creamy, syrupy and rich mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
No doubt, these Chocolate Salty balls are orgasmic! (No pun intended lol) There is no Brandy in this beer but bourbon is just a good a spirit to use to aged this brew. Essentially, this is a moderately light Chocolate Rain with salt. It may not seem like much but it does add an additional level of complexity and it is different overall as it is a lighter beer than Chocolate Rain. Overall, while the name may seem to make it a gimmicky beer, The Bruery really knows what they are doing and it does seem to be the beer it intends to be. The salty aspect is mild and is mainly in the after taste but it sure does make it a bit different than chocolate rain as there seems to be more of a lighter balance in flavors by only a slight and yet still so damn complex and potent. Highly damn recommended!!

By the way, if you wanna know where the name of the beer originated as well as the song, check this Youtube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIl-6UnlGVs

Anime Corner:
Tifa Lockhart and the Final Fantasy VII cast as well as Chef himself from South Park were used in this pairing for many reasons. Right around the time South Park especially this song became famous, I was still in high school. Back in 1997, Final Fantasy VII was released. I got the game around Christmas and around that time I was heavily invested in wanting to get a Playstation to get this game. My friends Alfredo Gutierrez and Jose Almanza introduced me to the Chef Aid: South Park Album with the Chocolate Salty Balls song on it near the end of 1998. So the fact that these 2 things came out around my High School years, it was a good reason to bring them together with this beer pairing. A tribute to the South Park song and my RPG playing childhood. LOL Anime Chef Rules!!

Sources:
http://orig12.deviantart.net/ee4c/f/2015/101/d/6/d67cb3a90750227a1fdc49ec96f4b3b1-d8pcwho.jpg
http://orig01.deviantart.net/2491/f/2015/203/f/d/vii_by_benlo-d92fve0.jpg
http://t.wallpaperweb.org/wallpaper/games/1024×768/Final_fantasy_vii__tifa__anime_wallpaper_original.jpg
http://southparkstudios.mtvnimages.com/images/shows/south-park/clip-thumbnails/season-8/0801/south-park-s08e01c10-chefs-warning-16×9.jpg?

2015 Dragon’s Milk by New Holland brewing

December 31, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Dragon's Milk, Imperial Milk Stout, Legend of Mana, Milk Stout, New Holland Brewing, Sierra, Sweet Stout | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.5/6

2015 Dragon’s Milk by New Holland brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Milk/Sweet Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Roasty Malt character intermingled with deep vanilla tones, all dancing in an oak bath. Pairings: red meat, smoked foods, balsamic, rich cheese & dark chocolate.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Dragon’s Milk is a 17th century term used to describe the strong beer usually reserved for royalty. This strong ale was aged in oak for over 120 days. The aging process extracts flavors from the wood, which contribute to its complex character. Hints of bourbon flavor perfectly complement its roasted malts to produce a beer fit for a King.
==Introduction==

Was able to get this beer thanks to my friend Steve from Iowa where typically, in the midwest, is where you find this treasure. It has been a long time since I tried this one and tasting it one again on my trip to Iowa, I was reminded why I loved this beer so much. It is a proxy component of my Sangri-Leche beer and an inspiration recipe for my future homebrew with Dragon fruit, Raspberries, Passion fruit and Red Pickly pear Tuna. New Holland makes some of the greatest beers out there in the midwest and hope one day we see them here in California. The last time I tried the first Dragon’s milk was probably back in 2011-2012 and I still rejoice the day I could try some more. So now that I was able to have it here again, a grand welcome to the treasure which is, Dragon’s Milk! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich toffee, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, oak, dark fruit, cherry, raisin hints, fig hints, currants, blackberries, bourbon, vanilla, espresso notes, brown sugar, pecan truffle hints, Danish cookies, molasses, anise, mocha, marshmallows, smores chocolate, toasted rye bread, tobacco, leather and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Rich oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, flan, coconut, toffee, marshmallow, mocha, pecan truffle hints, Danish cookies, anise, molasses, mint, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, Irish cream, steamed milk, espresso notes, brown sugar, dark fruit, cherry, raisin hints, fig hints, currants, blackberries, fudge chocolate cake, toasted rye bread, tobacco, leather, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, chocolate cheese cake, choco flan, milk sugar, pecan pie, cocoa krispies and peanut butter hints.

Aftertaste:
Milk Chocolate, toasty oak, coconut, bourbon, vanilla, dark fruit, rich caramel, earthy notes and marshmallows. No alcohol in the taste, crimson dark full body, smooth, creamy, silky and velvety mouthfeel with a ridiculously easy to drink mouthfeel. A dangerous one especially sold as a 4 pack.

Overall:
Exceptionally phenomenal as always. I do believe the Raspberry version of this beer is a step above it but that is just me. Hence the reason why I am making a home brew off this beer but with more than just raspberries. I want to get to the heart of the dragons! Anyways, this beer is like if you loved everything about those exclusive hard to find bourbon barrel aged stouts, this has a good amount of it and it is made year round. “Plug it into my veins” kind of beer that is really awesome and should sought after.

Anime Corner:
Sierra from the Legend of Mana has returned as she was used in the pairing of the original Dragon’s milk for reasons that she is a Dragoon and well, she has the milk or at least that is what I implied in the original review lol. Seriously though, in the game, she is an important character and one the best in the list of many party members that join in the quest. This complex character in the beer complements the complex character that is Sierra as well.
Sources:
http://cfile6.uf.tistory.com/image/1856F31A4C89A790110937
http://i4.pixiv.net/img06/img/tomoteru/33708327.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2016/03/07/16/39/24/55676023_p0.png

2015 Darkness & Barrel Aged Darkness by Surly brewing (Double Review)

December 28, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 2015 Surly Barrel Aged Darkness, 2015 Surly Darkness, Black Magic, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, dark chocolate, Evil, harpy, High West Rye Whiskey Barrels, Kill-LA-Kill, Lord of Darkness, milk Chocolate, passion fruit, Russian Imperial Stout, Rye Whiskey Barrels, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Surly Brewing, Surly Darkness 2014 | Leave a comment

The time has come for another yearly review of Minnesota’s equivalent of Dark Lord Day (Darkness Day), Surly Darkness! If you were lucky to have the 2014 version of Darkness, there was only one release at the time that was both the original but also aged in Rye Whiskey. This time, they released both the original non-barrel aged and the barrel aged versions. Today I will bring you the review for the original brew for this year and the Whiskey Barrel variant. Both beers, though a pretty penny, I was able to get through online means. If you want to get this one, you can try and find them at www.mybeercollectibles.com or best your chance to trade. Regardless, I want to see if these beers are worth the trade but also want let you know if they are worth it to save you some time. Who am I kidding, ofcourse these are awesome! Then again, let’s see if they have changed over the years too. Cheers!

2015 Darkness*
———————

2015 Darkness by Surly brewing is a 10.3% ABV World Class Russian Imperial Stout.

Label:
Our 2015 vintage bottling of Darkness features a screeching bat-nightmare by local artist Brandon Holt.

No creature is more adept at navigating in the Darkness than a bat. Emerging from a deep and ancient cave, this year’s twisted nocturnal creature has evolved a set of adaptations well suited to detecting and devouring uncommon nourishment.

Notes of chocolate, coffee, dried tart cherries, and raisins emirate from his lair. If you can evade the talons and teeth, the think body of this Russian imperial stout finishes sweet, with a piney resinous character.
___

Aromas:
Rich sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee,tropical fruit like passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, grapefruit, tangerines, citrus, oranges, stone fruit mango, peaches, apricot, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate, chocolate mousse, brown sugar, honey, dark candi sugar, fruit cake, pecan pie, almond joy, oak, dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, mocha, roasted coffee, brown sugar, molasses, anise, mild rum, leather, tobacco and toasted bread on blackberry jam.

Flavors:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate, stone fruit mango, peaches, apricot, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, chocolate mousse, capirotada raisins bread pudding, peaces and cream, tropical fruit like passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, grapefruit, tangerines, citrus, oranges, molasses, anise, dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, mocha, roasted coffee, brown sugar, cherry Dr. pepper, rocky road ice cream, maple syrup, raspberries, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, toasted coconut, flan, earthy notes, mild rum, leather, tobacco, toasted bread on blackberry jam, rye bread, tres leches cake, lechera sweetened condensed milk, whipped cream, plantains, chocolate mango, brown sugar, honey, dark candi sugar, fruit cake, pecan pie, almond joy and bourbon hints.

Aftertaste:
Rich Chocolate mango, coffee, tropical fruit like dragon fruit, passion fruit, earthy notes, oak, rye bread, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, banana, dark fruit raisin, blackberry preserves, coconut, fruit cake, pecan pie and other sweet goodies. No alcohol in the taste, dark abyss body, smooth velvety and silky mouthfeel and a dangerously easy drinkability like before.

Overall:
It has been a long time since I tried the original. The 2014 one was straight up barrel aged and that one was super amazing. So the original is definitely true to when I tried it back in 2013. Damn luscious evil, darkness, black magic, abysmal craziness. If you have never tried this beer, you have to get your hands on this one or any of the previous variants. This is always ridiculous to the core. A true Dark Lord of its own arts!

2015 Barrel Aged Darkness
————————

2015 Barrel Aged Darkness by Surly brewing is a 12% ABV World Class Russian Imperial Stout aged in High West Rye Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
(Same as The 2015 Darkness)
___

Aromas:
Dark cherries, prunes, plums, currants, raisins, blackberries, vinous Caramel, dulce de leche caramel, rye whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows,oak, vanilla, Danish cream, Khalua coffee, mocha, leather, tobacco, Bubulubu chocolate, capirotada raisins bread pudding, Rich bananas, Flan, tres leches cake, vanilla, crème brulee, grilled plantains, platano burro, brown sugar, pecan pie, Gansito Chocolate berry pastry, honey, graham crackers, waffle cone, stone fruit peaches, chocolate mangos, mature mangos and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich bananas, Flan, tres leches cake, vanilla, crème brulee, grilled plantains, platano burro, brown sugar, pecan pie up front, rye whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, smores chocolate, campfire hints, maple syrup, dark cherries, prunes, plums, currants, blackberries, oreo cookies and cream, rocky road ice cream, Dr. Pepper cherry, stone fruit peaches, chocolate mangos, mature mangos, molasses, anise, fruit cake, almond joy chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, dark chocolate, leather tobacco, Gansito Chocolate berry pastry, honey, graham crackers, waffle cone, Danish cream, Khalua coffee, mocha, leather, tobacco, Bubulubu chocolate, capirotada raisins bread pudding, candi sugar, milk sugar, hazelnut nectar, tropical fruit like passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, grapefruit, tangerines, citrus, oranges, whipped cream, ice cream cake, chocoflan, chocolate cheese cake, port wine, Vinous Caramel and more.

Aftertaste:
Rich berries, rich coconut, vanilla, dulce de leche, rye whiskey, tropical chocolate mango, dark fruit raisins, figs, leather, dark cherries, fruit cake, pecan pie, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, chocolate smores, tres leches cake, and almond joy lingers. Super Rich. No alcohol in the taste despite this being strong ABV. The drinkability of super easy is quite dangerous. This beer treads the neither regions of dimensions of what truly is, a full dark body, smooth velvety, rich, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
Talk about going head to head with some of the greats out there especially Black Tuesday from the Bruery, Three Floyds Dark Lord Imperial Stout and others like them. Rye Whiskey barrel aged version is more complex as this addition gives way transforming the original but also makes it more complex with varying temperatures. For only being able to purchase one per person at the Darkness Day Event, I am very grateful to the person who gave up theirs in order for us to have a chance to post it to the website. Such a damn honor and cheers to you good sir or m’am! As for you, the reader, I think it is definitely worth it to find this one. It be a rare whalez!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill was chosen in the previous versions of this beer. This year, since the barrel aged version is golden labeled, I am pairing also the Ryuko version with Senketsu Kisaragi. For those that do not know this form, it is the one that looks like she turned super saiyan from Dragon Ball Z increasing her power exponentially like the way the original Darkness power was increased by the process of Rye whiskey Barrel Aging. Each beer in its own means is delicious and evil as I show case the version of Ryuko when she was evil using Juunketsu (The White armored version). The original time I used Ryuko in 2013 was the original form with Senketsu so I paid tribute to that by bringing forth the Ryuko plushie in this pairing.

Final Judgment:
Absolutely love them both. The Rye Whiskey version bring out more of the rye and whiskey flavors and mild the hoppy mango flavors although they are still present as the beer warms up. So definitely depending on your taste, you can choose one or the other but they are a damn fine collection worth having.

Sources:
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/734/568/c3d.jpg
http://i1.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2014/03/31/21/12/59/42604840_p0.png
https://im1.ibsearch.xxx/9/43/265ecaa4c0d5f8c785419d982c939.png
http://cs627722.vk.me/v627722304/b5fe/viblojSJFyM.jpg
http://nowere.net/p/src/1440672835871.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2014/34/1408797252-sample-4000c119b28b5aecc2ae23c16a292504.jpg

Rating: 6.25/7* 2015 Darkness
Rating: 7/7* 2015 Barrel Aged Darkness

Guardian Double Stout by New American Brewing of Ankeny, Iowa

December 28, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Ankeny, Claire Farron, Double Stout, Final Fantasy XIII, Guardian Double Stout, Iowa, Lightning, New American Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Guardian Double Stout by New American Brewing of Ankeny, Iowa is a 9% ABV Imperial Stout.

Label:
Guardian Double Stout is made with large amounts of two-row malt, chocolate malt, roasted barley, and flaked oats. Chocolate and roasted characters dominate the flavor, supported by hints of coffee. Despite its intensity, Guardian’s creamy mouthfeel makes it very smooth and surprisingly easy to drink. This beer ages well and can be enjoyed for years to come.

==Introduction==

Another brew obtained while I was at my trip to Iowa. This time, an Imperial Stout from Ankeny in Iowa. Ankeny is the city north of Des Moines and south of where I went to college at Iowa State University. Thanks to my friend Steve, I was able to get the beer over here to the website. I was looking for several beers from Iowa to take to the site and this one caught my eye as I love Imperial stouts and this one seem to be awesome. So let’s see if my choice was an adequate one.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherry, roasted coffee notes, mocha, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate, hazelnut nectar, anise, molasses, tobacco, leather, brown sugar, graham crackers, cinnamon and earthy notes.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherry, hazelnut nectar, roasted coffee notes, mocha, flan, crème brulee, espresso, vanilla, caramel, earthy notes, anise, molasses, tobacco, leather, rye bread, brown sugar, graham crackers, peppery notes, cinnamon hints and milk shake.

Aftertaste:
Dark Chocolate, roasted coffee notes, vanilla, earthy notes and dark fruit. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious stout reminding me of the very delicious double stouts that are primarily dark chocolate flavored with the roasted coffee notes. It may seem like an average Imperial stout but this beer definitely has the flavors I usually enjoy from Imperial stouts. It would be hard to go wrong this one so yeah, give this one a shot!

Anime Corner:
Lightning Claire Farron from Final Fantasy XIII to take the place of the guardian in this brew. Using dual Lightnings it complements the aspect of this being a double stout. The colors also complement the colors of the label and the flavors with pink being representative of the dark cherries in this beer as an example. Other flavors can be seen as well.

Sources:
http://img08.deviantart.net/1561/i/2014/239/e/b/the_branded_savior_by_limbonix-d7wyfle.png

Virtuous Endeavor Dubbel Ale Confluence brewing of Des Moines Iowa

December 28, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Dubbel, Confluence brewing, Dark Sakura, Des Moines, Fate Stay Night, Iowa, Virtuous Endeavor | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Virtuous Endeavor Dubbel Ale Confluence brewing of Des Moines Iowa is an 8.4% ABV Belgian Dubbel.

Label:
For nearly 425 years, brewing beer has been central to the lives of Trappist monks who view it as a way to create revenue to support their community and as part of a higher calling. Confluence Brewing Company’s three beer Virtuous Endeavor Series – feature Dubbel, Tripel, and Quadrupel Ale – was inspired by the care and craftsmanship the Trappists put into the style of beer they still brew today All Virtous Endeavor beers are bottle conditioned and will continue to mature in the cellar, but can be enjoyed today if you choose.

BELGIAN-STYLE DUBBEL ALE

A grain bill of Belgian and German malt combines with dark Belgian candi sugar and rich fruity flavors to create this sweeter version of a Belgian beer. Dubbel has the lowest ABV for the series at 8.4%

==Introduction==

Obtained this one from my friend Steve in Iowa who was able to ship these to me after my visit to Ames and Iowa State University, my Alma Mater. This one caught my eye as it was a Belgian style but brewed in Iowa. So naturally with my love of the Belgian beers, I had to get this one. This one is a Belgian Dubbel and while I could not find the Quad, a Belgian style none the less is delicious I figure. So with this one, let’s take a look and see what this Belgian has to offer, cheers!

Aromas:
Citrusy Oranges, honey, dark fruit plums raisins, plums, dark cherries, figs, dates, Dulce De leche caramel, vanilla, flan, stone fruit peaches, apricots, tropical guava, raspberry, coriander spice, phenolic notes, peppercorn spices, pecan pie, waffle cone, Belgian Candi Sugar, clove spice, bubble gum, honey and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Oranges, citrus, Dulce De leche caramel, vanilla, flan, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit plums raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, dates, tropical guava, raspberry, Belgian Candi Sugar, clove spice, bubble gum, banana notes, coriander spice, phenolic notes, peppercorn spices, pecan pie, waffle cone, honey, rye bread, brown sugar, coffee cake hints and chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Residual Belgian Candi sugar, stone fruit, dark fruit, clovey spice and bananas linger. So damn good No alcohol in the taste, Honey colored full body, smooth, creamy and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to supping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious Belgian Dubbel focusing more on its fruitier, citrusy and Belgian Candi side than the dark fruit side. Different Belgian styles would give different flavors but I think I really liked this one as it felt more unique than the average Dubbel. If you are able to find this one or purchase this, definitely give it a try. It is always good to try Iowa beers!

Anime Corner:
Dark Sakura from Fate Stay Night was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the aspect of Double or Dubbel but also the label colors. The flavors of dark fruits like cherries go with her name and as she emerges from the darkness it is synonymous to the way the flavors emerge with each temperature changing sip.

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

Wineification III (Mardi Rouge III?) collaboration with The Bruery and Fess Parker winery and vineyard

December 24, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged black berries, Black Tuesday, bourbon barrels, chocolate mousse, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, Fess Parker, Fess Parker winery, french oak barrels, Grenache Grapes, Grey Monday, Harvest Syrah, Imperial Stout, Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, Kill-LA-Kill, Mardi Rouge, Mocha Wednesday, Petite Syrah, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, syrah grapes, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, Wineification III | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Wineification III (Mardi Rouge III?) collaboration with The Bruery and Fess Parker winery and vineyard is a 19% ABV Black Tuesday Imperial Stout with Grenache Grapes 91% Aged in Bourbon Barrels and 9% aged in French Oak Barrels

Label:
WHO’S COUNTING!
The Rues and the Parkers are back at it again! In this third rendition of Wineification, they continue to vanquish the boundaries between wine and beer, combining their brains and brawn with a blend of juicy Rodney’s Vineyard Grenache grapes with The Bruery’s Black Tuesday Imperial Stout.

===Introduction===
A new version of Wineification has arrived to Reserve and Hoarders members. Last year, we did not get Wineification II but since I wanted to pair Ryuko with her Junketsu form (evil Ryuko) it was okay. I would later have a chance to try it at the Black Tuesday party and may do a review of those beers at a later time. It sure has been a damn busy year for me as I have barely had a chance to finish my reviews and well even add all the beers I have tried and jotted down notes for. I really am behind but it happens especially since I like to dedicate my time to homebrewing. Either way, I said to myself, when it comes to these beers like Black Tuesday, White Chocolate, Chocolate Rain, Wineification and other variants like Melange 3 or 12, Mocha Wednesday, Grey Monday and other Black Tuesday Cuvees, there is always damn time. As for this release of Wineification using different types of grapes, let’s see how it goes. Cheers!

Aromas:
Port wine, red wine, concorde grapes,fancy wine notes sweet condensed milk, flan, crème brulee, dark, milk, Baker’s, Belgian and German chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, Chambord raspberries, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, port wine, red wine, grapes, dark cherries, raisins, figs, dates prunes, blue and black berries, currants, bananas, bourbon, oak, leather, toasted coconut, mocha, pecan pie, hazelnut, rocky road ice cream, candi sugars, agave, rich chocolate mousse and fudge cake in wine.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit raisins, figs, prunes, plums, blue berries, currants, grapes, dark cherries, blackberries, raspberries, Bourbon, oak, toasted coconut, red wine, port wine, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, tootsie roll chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, flan, crème brulee, toffee, butterscotch, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, sweetened condensed milk, rum notes, grilled caramel bananas, plantain, Chambord raspberry liqueur, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, Mocha, leather notes, rye bread with black berry jelly spread, pecan pie, agave notes, candi sugars, brown sugar, rock candy, rocky road ice cream, almond joys, chocolate mousse, cherry cola, hazelnut, chocolate fudge cake and blueberry cobbler cheesecake.

Aftertaste:
Finishing only mildly dry unlike the original and lingering lots of delicious flavors. Milk and Dark chocolate, Port wine, fudge cake, dark fruit berries and sweetened condensed milk. There is hardly any sense of harsh alcohol in the taste even for that 19% ABV. They did their homework. Crimson Dark yet medium body, syrupy, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and a sipping beer, there is a smoothness about it that makes it very dangerous and as you will want to keep drinking it. Take your time with it, this beer is meant to be savored, enjoyed and well loved!

Overall:
Exceptionally ridiculous. Is there anything the Bruery can’t do when it comes to making all sorts of Black Tuesday Cuvees or what? This beer is definitely more on the wine side but also balances out with the bourbon imperial stout goodness. Think of this as the connoisseurs’ ambrosia making the ultimate in Wine/Beer/Liquor hybrid. Like the Black Tueday, Chocolate, White Chocolate, Cacaonut, Grey Monday, Mocha Wednesday, Melange 3 and 12 and many of their other blends, I highly highly recommend this one if you can get it!!

Anime Corner:
No doubt, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill makes a return once again to pair with many of the different aspects of the beer. This time, in the third installment, I am using her third and most powerful form, the Golden Hair/Super Saiyan-esque Senketsu Kisaragi form. The different aspects of this year’s beer from the label, the flavors, the ingredients and especially the alcohol (going from the 14%ABV to 19% ABV) all represent this beer very well. Ryuko is one of my favorite characters in Anime right next to my other top 3 (Kos-mos, Yoruichi and Temari). The reason I did not use her second “Junketsu” form was due to the fact that I never got around to putting the beer to the site, although I did have Winefication II at the Bruery’s Black Tuesday party. Like the original installment of Winefication, the colors pair perfect with Ryuko’s hair, the background, her eyes and her outfit as well. If this was a candidate for Mardi Rouge (Red Tuesday) then even more the reason to use her for this pairing. The alcohol content represents her will power and strength and now that she is on the third form, even more! The complexity of the flavors showcases her unpredictable characteristics. She always has a plan up her sleeve. She is deadly and sexy which best describes how smooth the beer goes down but deadly since it has the really high ABV. The beer is dark but it is a blood red dark as you get closer to finishing the glass. Her suit Senketsu (Fresh Blood) describes this as she needs to let senketsu take some of her blood in order to unleash a higher power. Perfect for that red wine aspect and the color as I mentioned earlier. Ryuko is strong and tough minded, but she does have her sweet,warm hearted and loving side which she shows to the people she cares about. The sweet chocolate and berries is what best places this category. Her Kisaragi form is what is really new to this beer and being that it is her ultimate form, there was no doubt why I wouldn’t use that form. Take it easy with her though, you won’t find one like her again, maybe. Either way, it will be a very memorable experience :3

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/eRF7kiu.jpg
http://i3.egv.cc/img/i.egv.cc/i/feti/mji/mji-kaikyaku_675.jpg
http://blog-imgs-65.fc2.com/d/g/d/dgdg875/anime_wallpaper_Kill_la_kill_Matoi_Ryuko_swordwaltz_mk2-13778181.jpg
https://fanart.tv/fanart/tv/272074/showbackground/kill-la-kill-5389cb01bf479.jpg

Twin Pines Mall by Pipeworks with Emporium The Collaboration

December 24, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 88 MPH, Back To The Future, Back To The Future 2, Bleach, citrus honey, Collaboration Beer, DeLorean, Doc Brown, Emporium, Flux Capacitor, Great Scott, honey, Ichigo Kurosaki, Marty McFLy, Pipeworks Brewing, Spruce, Spruce Tips, Twin Pines Mall, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Twin Pines Mall by Pipeworks with Emporium The Collaboration is an 8% ABV Imperial India Pale Ale brewed with Spruce Tips and Honey.

Label:
Get your DeLorean up to 88 MPH because Pipeworks and Emporium are taking you Back To The Brew-ture. For Twin Pines Mall we furled the Flux Capacitor with 1.21 Jigawatts of spruce tips and wild flower honey. The future is now so drink up before you’re OutaTime. Great Scott!

==Introduction==

Right on time for October 21st 2015 which was supposed to be the time Marty, Doc and Jennifer travelled to the future in Back to The Future II the movie. While the time has been long past, I have been fairly busy with life stuff and have not even had a chance to update the website so I can get the reviews on here. Well, now that it is closer to the end of the year and stuff has slowed down, I have more time! This beer from Pipeworks looks very promising as it is not your typical IPA. Using actual Spruce tips seems very intriguing as that come from Christmas Trees. Knowing almost everything I have had form Pipeworks has been ridiculously awesome, I hope this is as much hyped as the movie was. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of Spruce Christmas tree fragrance, stone fruit lychee, apricot, peaches, Starburst candy, lemon candy, lemon peel, lemon zest, tropical fruits like kiwi, guava, papaya, dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pear tuna, honey dew melon, raspberries, agave nectar, mangos, coconut hints, marshmallow, sweetened condensed milk, orange preserves, Wild flower honey and hibiscus hints.

Flavors:
Rich Christmas tree spruce, pine cones, piney, grape fruit, dank, oniony, floral, grassy and herbal hops, Wild flower honey, hibiscus hints, tropical fruits like kiwi, guava, papaya, dragon fruit, passion fruit, prickly pear tuna, honey dew melon, raspberries, agave nectar, mangos, stone fruit lychee, apricot, peaches, Starburst candy, lemon candy, lemon peel, lemon zest, tangerine gummy bears, tres leches cake, mango flan, caramel hints, blue basil, coconut hints, marshmallow, sweetened condensed milk and orange preserves.

Aftertaste:
Rich Honey, Christmas Trees, rich tropical fruits, fruit juice, dank hops and sweet vanilla lingers. No alcohol in the taste, mildly hazy golden body, crisp, rich and refreshing mouthfeel with a very easy to drink.

Overall:
Woah, this is heavy! And excellently exceptional. This is a unique IPA in so many ways using a lot of what Pipeworks does best to make exceptional beers. However, with the addition of the Spruce Tips to give off the Christmas tree flavors, the beer is taken to another level that I honestly haven’t tried something like this before. Literal Pine Christmas flavors. A great beer that will definitely meet the needs of a Back to Future and IPA fan alike.

Anime Corner:
Several Anime shows and Characters with all referencing to Back to The Future in this one. I tried to find as many that would definitely fit with the label and the cover of the movies. Definitely glad I found some.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/biaB89K.jpg
http://i-7.vcimg.com/58bf373ea663d469c8177a57c184a173296263(600x)/thumb.jpg
http://41.media.tumblr.com/7fd4d44451bdd8d753bef15844adad98/tumblr_mk38c6T6Xj1qkqgkeo1_1280.jpg
http://storge.pic2.me/cm/1680×1050/670/55228a317cab7.jpg

2015 Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues

December 24, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Bleach, Chocolate, coconut, coffee, dark chocolate, Dark Rukia, Death By Coconut, Ichigo, Ichigo Kurosaki, Kuchiki Rukia, Oskar Blues, Rukia, Rukia Kuchiki | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

2015 Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues brewing is a 6.3% Irish Porter aged on desiccated coconut and dark chocolate.

Label:
Pass. Dash. Hit.
Coconut Chocolate Choconut
Pack It In. Pack it out.

==Introduction==

The previous incarnation of this beer was collaboration with Shamrock brewing. Oskar Blues has always released some really fine beers like the Dale’s Pale Ale, Ten Fidy, Mama Yella Pils and Old Chub. With the release of a coconut beer, people went ballistic. Luckily for the masses, Oskar Blues was able to provide enough for the crazy demand. So you too can enjoy this one as it is most likely sold where they sell Oskar Blues beers. Cheers!

Aromas:
Super Rich, Almond Joy, Coconut, Rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, toasted coconut macaroons, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Cocada Mexican Coconut candy, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, coconut milk, almond milk, Danish cream, anise, molasses, lactose, Irish cream, tootsie roll candies and chocolate cake.

Flavors:
Ridiculously toasted coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, coconut milk, almond milk, Danish cream, Cocada Mexican Coconut candy, rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, rich almond joy chocolate, crème brulee hints, dark fruit cherries, marzipan, hazelnut nectar, coconut bread, rye bread, anise, molasses, lactose and chocolate coconut milk shake.

Aftertaste:
Rich toasted coconut candy remains, rich dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, pecan pie, hazelnut and cherry hints. No alcohol in the taste, deep dark body, creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Quite possibly, the best Coconut porter ever! So much chocolate coconut and coffee goodness that is very apparent all around from the rich aromas to the flavors. They really outshined themselves. It is no wonder why a lot of their beers seem to hit my exceptional meter often. They really do brew with magic. I highly recommend this one and it is a must try!

Anime Corner:
Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach was used in this pairing as the show relates to death but also how Rukia is like an equivalent to the Soul Reaper White Princess. Colors of the coconut represent her and the dark chocolate is the darkness of death. So swift and luscious! Ichigo Kurosaki is in there too just cuz he’s a bad ass. Essentially, these are some of their ultimate forms and what a better way to pair with the ultimate coconut porter!

Sources:
http://76.72.168.19/images/2013-01-26-554320.jpeg

Something’s Up With Jack by El Borracho Homebrewing

December 24, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged All Spice, Cinnamon, cloves, El Borracho Home Brewing, Halloween, Home brewing, Jack Skellington, nightmare before Christmas, nutmeg, pumpkin ale, Sally, Something's Up With Jack | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Something’s Up With Jack by El Borracho Homebrewing is a 7.4% ABV Pumpkin Ale Brewed with cinnamon, clove, ginger, nutmeg and all spice.

==Introduction==

A new brew by my friend William Carranza. This one was released for the Fall and at the right timing as it is pumpkin beer season. When it comes to pumpkin beers I am really picky as I enjoy the pumpkin beers that are more towards the pumpkin flesh with piloncillo kind or even more sweet potato to pumpkin pie flavors rather than the typical pumpkin spice. Although, when done right, the beers can come out great. My friend Will has handed me a bottle and so I wanted to see what his pumpkin beer was all about. Let’s take a look!

Aromas:
Ginger, cinnamon, sweet potato, pumpkin flesh, biscuit bread, pie crust, waffle cone, vanilla, honey, burnt sugar, clove spice, banana notes, stone fruit peach, apricot, peach cobbler hints, butterscotch, rye bread and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Pumpkin flesh, Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, pie crust, waffle cone, vanilla, caramel, ginger spice, ginger bread, clove spice, banana notes, cinnamon, stone fruit peach, apricot, peach cobbler hints, butterscotch, rye bread, biscuit bread, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone hints, Danish cream, maple syrup, sweet potato pie, honey and burnt sugar.

Aftertaste:
Pumpkin flesh, stone fruit peach, pie crust, vanilla, piloncillo, clove spice, ginger bread and fruit cake lingers. No alcohol in the taste, full body amber, creamy, smooth and effervescent mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect pumpkin beer showcasing so many of the delicious flavors I look for in pumpkin beers. The rich pumpkin flesh flavors, piloncillo on sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. To me this was a damn winner. Even without the extra nutmeg added at the pour (which really makes it even more awesome) it really holds strong on its own. Definitely something I had to ask my friend for another. A very delicious seasonal.

Anime Corner:
Sally, Jack Skellington and the rest of the Nightmare Before Christmas cast were used in this pairing as it fits with what my friend William was going for. Essentially, a Halloween beer about Jack from the Nightmare Before Christmas. To go along with my artistic perspective, I included Jack’s girl Sally as well. A well placed pumpkin also adds the theme and the style of the beer.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/The.Nightmare.before.Christmas.full.175475.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/388620-842×1191-the+nightmare+before+christmas-disney-sally-rafaarsen+%28artist%29-long+hair-single.jpg

Chimera by Birrificio Del Ducato of Italy

December 24, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Dark Ale, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Birrificio Del Ducato, Bleach, Chimera, Cyan Sung Sun, Emilou Apacci, Franceska Mila Rose, Italy, Quimera Parca, Tia Harribel | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Chimera by Birrificio Del Ducato of Italy is an 8% ABV Belgian Dark Strong Ale.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
This is a top fermented beer which undergoes a secondary fermentation in bottle. It draws inspiration from the great Belgian Abbey beers. With the color of a friar’s robe, it has aromas of caramel and alcohol preserved fruit (pear, plum and morel) with light roasts. The mouth is warm and complex with an unexpected dry finish that makes drinking easier.
“To all those who still hold dreams and will never cease to search for the happiness they deserve”.

Perfecting this beer was certainly challenging. Countless variations were jettisoned before arriving at the refined version we are proud to brew today. The current Chimera is most easily compared to a Belgian Dark Strong Ale. I traveled frequently in Belgium as a young man and I always enjoyed very much its beers. Today’s Chimera resembles those beers that awakened a lifelong fascination with the creation of this wonderful drink.
“It is like following an illusion we fell in love with a long time ago leaving us with the realization that when we pursue our dreams the immortality of spirit is found”.
18°

==Introduction==

Obtained this one from my friend Steve in Iowa who was able to send me this and other brews we found while I was in Ames Iowa. This one caught my eye mainly because it was from Italy and I really loved the design. Many of the Italian beers I have tried in the past like Draco and Demon Hunter were some of the best beers I have ever had. So needless to say, this was a rarity as I have never seen it before. The colors of the label also intrigued me. That and the fact that this was Belgian style, it was definitely going to go back with me somehow. Now that I got it, let’s bring it to the site and see what it is about.

Aromas:

Rich dark fruit, raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, black currants, blue berries, dark cherry, candi sugar, beat sugar, rock candy, toffee, brown sugar, bananas, clove spice, leather, tobacco, dulce de leche cramel, vanilla, blue berry cobbler, stone fruit peach, apricot, chocolate notes and rum hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit, raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, black currants, blue berries, dark cherry, candi sugar, leather, tobacco, dulce de leche cramel, vanilla, blue berry cobbler, stone fruit peach, apricot, chocolate notes, beat sugar, rock candy, toffee, brown sugar, bananas, clove spice hints, port wine hints, red wine hints, oak hints, pepper corns, rum hints, citrus notes and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits, vanilla, caramel, wine notes, floral notes, and stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, dark chestnut brown body, smooth, creamy and watery mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good Italian beer made in the Belgian Dark arts. There were so much berries and malty flavors to pick out. It was definitely vinous at some points and definitely reminded me of some of the other Italian favorites but mainly unique to this brewery. A small little bottle but definitely worth the try and worth the pick up.

Anime Corner:
Franceska Mila Rose, Cyan Sung Sun, Emilou Apacci and Tia Harribel from Bleach were used in this pairing since they become a Quimera Parca so naturally, the name of the beer and the label just seemed to fit so well with them and the colors just stand out as well. Granted, Tia Harribel was not part of Quimera Parca but she is their leader and one of my favorite anime characters from Bleach so ofcourse I would include her.

Sources:
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/dcdf3-19.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/92/b6/d5/92b6d58a3a82a592a853736f30771d01.jpg

2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery

December 23, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 2015 White chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 16.6% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
OAKALATE

This sumptuous version of our barrel-aged wheat wine style ale has an addition of fresh vanilla beans and TCHO cacao nibs.

White Chocolate is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may evolve pleasantly over time if cellared properly.

Notes/Commercial Description: (per beeradvocate)
The primary component of our “White Oak” ale is a 100% barrel aged wheat wine that we affectionately refer to as “White Oak Sap.” Essentially a “summer” barley-wine style ale, but made with a wheat heavy grain base, White Oak Sap is aged in used bourbon barrels for nearly a year and comes out rich in flavors of coconut, honey, caramel and vanilla. To compliment the already rich flavors of the beer, we’ve added cacao nibs and vanilla beans to give this beer the delicate flavor of white chocolate…hence the name.
___

Was available to Preservation and Reserve members for December 2015, the almighty white chocolate has returned. Unfortunately, like the 2013, the 2014th version ended up getting sour if not consumed fresh. I will say this much as my version did not sour at all after taking it out of the cellar. Something I had mildly regretted as I would have to wait patiently to replace the empty spot with another White Chocolate. This year, with the separation of facilities (All Sours are made at The Bruery Terreux) we should not see this type of situation happen again. This decadent piece of liquid chocolate white has been on one of my top favorites of all time in terms of rare beers and Now that it back in town, I have to come clean. Just like Black Tuesday, this will be the last time I review this magical brew. Sad, but I think I have made an important point over the years as why I love this beer so much. Heck, even my banner has this beer. So I bring it forth one last time, one of my all time favorites in my quest to seek the truest of the truest, White Chocolate! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel,Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples,, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!

Flavors:
White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!

Aftertaste:
Lingering sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice
No alcohol in the taste despite the 16.6% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.

Overall:
Supreme, Luscious and Exquisite. Even for trying the 2014 version almost a year later and it did not sour on me (lucky?) the 2015 is damn promising. Even stronger in and more delicious than that of the 2014. White Chocolate, despite not being the new Melange 12, it is still a major component that still supreme. Mind blowing as always and a constant reminder of the love I have for it and my patiently waiting for it. Like many before, a bucket list beer along with Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain the Wineification variants, Grey Monday, Melange 3 and my newest favorite, Melange 12, certainly all a must try.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto is no mystery to this beer. She has appeared in all the instances I try this beer and may do so even if someday I decide to review the beer again. Temari is simply and awesome ninja as I stated in previous reviews. She represents the color of the beer blonde to gold as in the color of her hair. She represents a partial tropical aspect in terms of the White oak that is added which I refer to “Raw as The Sun” but subdued by the overall sweet chocolate and vanilla which are pretty intimate to me. Temari’s strength is also in the ABV and just like a ninja, will flow easy if you try to consume her in one sitting. White Chocolate Temari, I Love You Chiquita!!! :3

Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapersdesktop.com/Anime/Naruto/images/Naruto%20Wallpaper%20257.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2015/01/12/584231/fd464741294dd813f56956bd2fecde55.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/6829/i/2013/234/f/b/temari_happy_birthday__by_rikamello-d6jbbmw.jpg

I’m So Honey Right Now by El Borracho Homebrewing

December 23, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Citra Hops, El Borracho Homebrewing, Home brewing, I'm So Honey Right Now, india pale ale, PA, Wild flower honey | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

I’m So Honey Right Now by El Borracho Homebrewing is a 7.8% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with extra Citra and Wild Flower Honey.

==Introduction==

My friend and Homebrew brother, Will Carranza, created another awesome brew and requested I’d give it a shot. He used some Wild flower honey which was given to him and extra citra to this concoction. The results were this honey based and orangey IPA. With many brews on his profile, I think Will is definitely moving up the ranks of the greatest homebrewers. Let’s take a sip and see what this one has to offer, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich citrus, grapefruit, tropical fruit mango, papaya, biscuit hints, honey, biscuit bread, caramel hints, wild flower honey, stone fruit apricot, peach notes, kiwi, strawberry hints, passion fruit, dragon fruits, lemon grass and floral notes.

Flavors:
Lots of tropical fruit, papaya, mango, guava hints, honey dew melon, kiwi, strawberry hints, passion fruit, dragon fruit, floral, grapefruit, grassy, piney and herbal hops, tangerine candy, lemon peel, grapefruit peel, biscuit bread, caramel hints, wild flower honey, stone fruit apricot, peach notes, lychee, peppery notes, lemon verbana, minty hints, toffee hints, and starburst.

Aftertaste:
Lingereing tropical fruit, wild flower honey, citrusy and grapefruit hops, biscuit notes, and toffee hints. No alcohol in the taste, golden honey crimson medium to full body, smooth, crisp, refreshing and frothy mouthfeel and easy to drink

Overall:
A perfect IPA. A great job to my Homebrew brother for pulling this one off. So much candied hops and honey. While the color is a little darker due to the wild flower honey, the color is not offsetting to show that this is an IPA. I think is one of Will’s best IPAs so far. However, with the variety of hops out there and the passion for homebrewing experimentation, there is no limit to creating more brews like this one and maybe more exceptional ones.

Anime Corner:
This original character was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the name of the label. I am so honey right now showcases the seductive nature of what is sweet and temptation. A representation of honey and being covered in it almost to the point of implying that she is sexually active leaves a lot to the imagination.

Sources:
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/Няши-в-еде-Anime-Няши-Anime-Anime-Adult-2182333.jpeg

Coffee Smoking Wood by The Bruery

December 23, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Coffee Smoking Wood, Luka, Luka Megurine, Smoked Imperial Rye Porter, Smoking Wood, The Bruery, vanilla beans, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.85/6

Coffee Smoking Wood by The Bruery is a 13.8% Smoked Imperial Rye Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels with Coffee and Vanilla beans.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Bourbon Smoking Wood aged on coffee and vanilla

==Introduction==

Purchased a growler at the Bruery Tasting Room, this one is on tap only. This beer is based on the original Smoking Wood which was aged in Whiskey barrels. In 2014, this beer was rereleased as a Bourbon barrel variant. Along with this variant, there were sub-variants that had different ingredients added to make the beer even more unique. This sub variant was made with Coffee and was one of several ones they released on tap only to the public. The best one was probably the blueberry one but I would definitely like to see how this one compares. Let’s take a look and see what this one is about.

Aromas:
Rich Coffee notes, smokey campfire notes, oak, whiskey, bourbon, coconut, marshmallow, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, dark cherries, dark fruit, plums, raisins, anise, molasses, bacon hints, butterscotch, rye bread, pecan pie, crème brulee, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, mocha, Irish cream hints, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate and Bakers chocolate.

Flavors:
Smokey campfire notes, Oak, vanilla, rich roasted coffee, mocha, espresso, cold brew, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, rye bread, whiskey, bourbon, coconut, marshmallow, cocoa crispies cereal, BBQ honey glaze, Jericalla (Mexican-Custard), flan, burnt sugar, roasted malt, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, bacon hints, butterscotch, rye bread, pecan pie, crème brulee, cherry wood oak, dark cherries, dark fruit, plums, raisins, anise, molasses, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, Irish cream hints, maple syrup, chocolate smores and dark candi sugar.

Aftertaste:
Smoked oak, coffee, earthy notes, vanilla, whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, BBQ honey, flan and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, A sipping beer with with a very very smooth, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel, and a pitch black full body.

Overall:
An exceptional brew that definitely adds more complexity to the original bourbon barrel smoking wood. The higher levels of Mocha along with the original flavors makes me thing of being in the forest on a morning or night having a coffee with a nice campfire. I loved the Blueberries one better but I think in comparison, this one is second best for sure and would highly recommend it if you can still get it at the tap room.

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Megurine Luka was used in this pairing to represent the coffee and the rainforest tying South America to the greatest production of Coffee. I do not know where or what the coffee they used in this beer came from or is but I figure as a tribute to the greater origins of it. I figure since Luka’s colors defines some of the berry like flavors as well the color of the berries where the coffee beans come from, that this would be a good pairing.

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/438233-2000×1189-vocaloid-megurine+luka-shon-long+hair-blue+eyes-highres.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/212622-1500×844-vocaloid-megurine+luka-marirero+a-long+hair-single-blue+eyes.png

2015 Black Tuesday by the Bruery

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Black Tuesday 2015, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 19.9% ~20%ABV World Class Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
NEW DEAL

I cannot help but raise a dissenting voice to statements that we are living in a fool’s paradise, and that prosperity in this country must necessarily diminish and recede in the near future.” – E.H.H. Simmons, President, NYSE, January 1928

Black Tuesday Will age gracefully for many decades of economic fluctuations. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55 ° F (13 °C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass

==Introduction==

So we reached yet another year of the Bruery’s finest. Such a great year and the strongest Black Tuesday yet at 19.9% ABV. I might as well just call it a 20% ABV beer as there is not point in being accurate. This is going to be my final Black Tuesday review (Or at least the regular Black Tuesday). I have enjoyed this favorite countless times and I think it is finally time to put the continuous review of this beer away regardless if it gets stronger. Maybe I’ll put a small blurb somewhere, Who knows. If you want to get your hands on this limited release, you will have to do 1 of 3 things. First, if it is still the month of November, sign up for the 4th quarter preservation society, sign up for the Reserve society, or win the Bruery’s lottery for Black Tuesday which they do every October, or at least that is what they have been doing. Other than those 3, trading or buying online in the secluded beer stores, you may get lucky to get this one. At this rate, this beer should not be consumed in one sitting unless you know what your are doing lol. Either way, I don’t have to mention what I have already mentioned many times before, this beer is supremely phenomenal. So here’s to the future and more Black Tuesday being available to the masses one day! Cheers!

Aromas:
Oak, Bourbon, dark fruits raisins, figs, prunes, bananas, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian Chocolates, clove spice, Vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, anise, toffee, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, port wine hints, brown sugar, leather, mint, tobacco, mint, Irish cream, agave syrup, candi sugar, rock candy, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, pudding, graham cracker smores, coconut, smokey notes, choco flan, Kahlua, marshmallows, coffee hints and piloncillo.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, Vanilla Dulce De Leche Caramel, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, Rich Bananas, Grilled Bananas, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, cherries, raspberries, flan, leche nestle/sweetened condenced milk, choco flan, brown sugar, mocha hints, coffee, Khalua Liquer, Irish and Danish cream, Oreo cookies and cream, Toffee, Piloncillo Sugar Cone, Cotton candy, marshmallows, toasted coconut hints, tobacco, leather, cinnamon, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, molasses, anise, mint, maple syrup, almond joy, rocky road icecream, crème brulee, clove spice, port wine notes, graham crackers, waffle cone ice cream, butterscotch, black cherries, chocolate cheese cake, mousse chocolate dessert and pancho pantera chocolate powder.

Aftertaste:
Immense lingering flavors of Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut hints, marshmallow, dark fruits, dulce de leche, vanilla, oak, bourbon, pecan pie, coconut hints, tres leches cake, chocolate cake, cherry cordial hints and gooey brownies. Strange, despite the highest ABV this beer has been, the boozy aspect has diminished more than it’s previous incarnations. Remains a beyond pitch black deliciousness of a full body. Velvety, silky, syrupy, smooth and rich creamy mouthfeel, and still a sipping drinkability. Very much the balanced and KOS-MOSly/Orderly beer.

Overall:
Oh how I am going to miss dissecting this beer. It has been a long time phenomenal favorite of mine but since I have reviewed it many times again and again, it is time I make this one the last one. I have said many times over and over what this beer is capable and while many states have their versions of that one Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout that always becomes coveted by masses, Black Tuesday will always be a staple of being one of my most favorite beers of all time. It’s variants have even paired with some of my other favorite anime characters. The future of newer beers to come that are also variants I will save.

Anime Corner: tl;dr
As being my final Black Tuesday Review (Like I haven’t done it enough!) This time I bring forth the KOS-MOS Plushy I got back in 2005. Yes it is an old plushie but I keep the favorites stored safely. I think I did such a great job of pairing Kos-mos from the several beer reviews back that I wanted to bring the 2013 Anime corner below. Also, the 20% goes along with the second picture where she is holding the world on her fin. As to who is Kos-mos, see below:

KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four most favorite characters in anime. She was chosen for this particular beer in 2012 to go along with some of my most favorite beers of all time. In terms of who she is is representative of how bad ass this beer is. To me, Black Tuesday is representative of a crash (the stock market) which brings about chaos. Polar to chaos is order or cosmos. While there is is a mess among chaos, there is always a glimmer of hope that will restore the balance to the universe, and that is order or KOS-MOS. In other reviews I have reviewed her character when it comes to the divine and holy (The Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Mayan Judgment, Angel Share, Sede Vacante and even Sam Adams Tetravis). In the game, SPOILER ALERT She is Mary Magdalene’s vessel for which Kaos (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. Yeah, the spoiler may not make sense but there are many websites ready to explain. Anyways, Black Tuesday label, although hard to see holds some shiny blue but also some shiny brown. The blue part represents KOS-MOS for me and the brown is the sweet chocolate. Once you find out how sweet and understanding this character is, it makes a world of a difference which is why Black Tuesday makes a world of a difference to me. Although the cold harsh reality of her initial computational robotical android form may seem a bit cold when the series first started. Not to mention the fact that she is a definitely over powered character, which may be the alcohol and the fact that this beer should not be consumed in one sitting. She should be enjoyed slowly. The artwork also represents Black Tuesday as the dark matter of space, the upper frontiers of awesomeness and good beer. Tuesday is just another cycle of the stars, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!

Sources:
http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs49/i/2012/337/8/9/the_firebird_suite_by_melficexd-d23or7w.jpg
http://img01.deviantart.net/8c5b/i/2012/166/4/b/synthetik_kosmos_by_einheit00-d53n9lr.jpg

Imperial Cabinet collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Jester King

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, collaboration, Imperial Cabinet, jester king, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Naruto, Oak aged, Spices, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Imperial Cabinet collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Jester King is an 8.3% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with spices and aged in oak barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Many things can happen when collaborating breweries come together. Like us and Jester King. We both share a deep affinity for sour and wild beers. But rather than rest on our laurels, we challenged ourselves to brew a beer reminiscent of a nearly forgotten, early 20th century cocktail, the Ramos gin fizz, employing our wildly traditional methods to do so. We began with some of the cocktail’s signature ingredients – lemon, lime and orange citrus fruits, botanicals and sweeteners (sorry, no egg whites) – and then let our collaborative brewing process run wild. The result is laden with herbal and floral notes, bright lemon and lime zest, orange blossom honey, vanilla, warm oak and comforting spices. The Ramos gin fizz is a hard cocktail to find, and when you do, it takes 10 minutes to make. Our collaboration with Jester King will be similarly elusive; however, it took nearly a year in the making.

==Introduction==

Released for the Bruery’s Reserve and Hoarders Societies, this beer would bring one of Texas best breweries, Jester King, to birth a beer that would probably just as coveted as wen Three Floyds toured last year. My friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com has sent me some very awesome stuff from Jester King and even had his wedding reception at the brewery. It is no joke that Jester King is one of the best when it comes to complex saisons and wild ales just like Jolly Pumpkin up in Michigan. So for this beer, I really want to see how The Bruery and Jester King minds bring forth something awesome. Let’s do this!

Aromas:
Funky notes, farmhouse hay hints, vinegar sour, black tea, lemonade hints, floral notes, hibiscus, roses, poppy, lavender, rich vanilla, oak, stone fruit apricots, mango, lemonade hints, biscuit bread, anise, coriander, gin hints, herbs, mint tea, yerba buena, salt, tejuino maize, peppercorns, Juniper berries, caramel, citrus, lemons, lime, Danish cream, candy sugar hints and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Lots of floral notes, hibiscus, roses, poppy, lavender, rich vanilla, oak, caramel, citrus, lemons, lime, salt, tejuino maize, peppercorns, Juniper berries, tart stone fruit apricots, honey, waffle cone, farmhouse hay hints, vinegar sour, black tea, lemonade hints, biscuit bread, anise, coriander, gin hints, herbs, mint tea, yerba buena, Danish cream, candy sugar hints, brown sugar hints and old mango.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with oak, vanilla, stone fruit, tart lemons and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, clear honey colored body, crisp, effervescent and refreshing mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A Perfect sour. While the overall beer is a sour, some hints of fruity and floral notes do come through but just a touch to cleanse out the sourness. It was a damn fine collaboration and I feel that many people that love sours will find it’s strong herbal, vanilla and oak flavors to really pop with this one. I think some time would do wonders, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Kaguya Otsutsuki from Naruto was used in this pairing to represent what is inside the Imperial Cabinet. Reminiscent of Pandora’s Box, Kaguya was sealed long ago in the series and when the world was set into the infinite illusion of sleep by Madara Uchiha, he did not realize that he opened that very box (basically unsealed her) and thus Kaguya was back. The beer’s name and the complexity it represents goes along with the originator, Kaguya, who was basically the mother of all the Shinobi powers in the series. Sour and evil but the sweetness and complexity of the beer do showcase some of Kaguyas traits.

Sources:
https://hdwallpapers.cat/wallpaper_high_contrast/kaguya_ootsutsuki_fantasy_girl_hornes_art_high_contrast_hd-wallpaper-1823783.jpg
http://pre01.deviantart.net/ad47/th/pre/f/2014/175/9/e/kaguya_ootsutsuki_by_olggah-d7mr064.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/NARUTO.full.1748450.jpg

8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 12 Beers of Christmas, 8 Maids A Milking, Ayeka Masaki Jurai, Belgian Stout, Imperial Milk Stout, Mihoshi, Ryo-Ohki, Ryoko Hakubi, sasami, Sweet Stout, Tenchi, Tenchi Muyo, The Bruery, Tokimi, Tsunami, Washu Hakubi | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Belgian Imperial Milk Stout.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

The Eighth Verse of Our Twelve Beers of Christmas saga celebrates with a rich & creamy Belgian-style imperial milk stout. Happy Holidays!

8 Maids-A-Milking is suitable for aging up to 5 years (soon after the release of 12 Drummers Drumming) when cellared properly.

==Introduction==

The Bruery has recently released their latest Christmas beer to the public and should be hitting many distribution areas publicly where they sell The Bruery beers. I was unable to see if there was any special ingredients used in this beer to make it unique from the last aside from being an Imperial Milk Stout but much love Milk Stouts so typically, these beers may fit the Christmas or Holiday times. Overall, this set of Twelve days of Christmas beers have been very good overall but I would definitely like to see what this one is about. So let us take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, plums figs, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses, Rich Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, flan, bananas, clove spice, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, roasted coffee notes, marshmallow smores, cookie dough ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, Stone fruit peach hints and cocoa powder.

Flavors:
Rich Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, Dark fruit raisins, plums figs, flan, bananas, clove spice, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, milk sugar, rock candy, candi sugar, cocoa powder, Yoohoo chocolate drink, peanut butter, cocoa krispies cereal, hazelnut nectar, mocha, roasted coffee notes, marshmallow smores, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses, mints, anise, Pistachio Ice cream, oatmeal cookies, Stone fruit peach hints, apricots, mango, lychee fruit and toasted rye bread with peach preserves.

Aftertaste:
Sweet, milk sugar, chocolate, dark fruit, stone fruit, mocha, vanilla, caramel, earthy notes and fancy coffee cake lingers. No alcohol in the taste, dark abysmal full body, super smooth, frothy, very rich and creamy mouthfeel, with a drinkability that does not equate to its ABV.

Overall:
Divinely rich and perfect milk stout. So much Belgian, so delicious I had to buy several of these. This might be their best Christmas beer yet. The milk and chocolatey stout flavors really do stand out big time. Despite this being a bigger ABV beer, it is really hard to tell where the alcohol is. The bruery will be releasing this one for the holiday season so definitely do yourself a favor and get this one, I highly recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Ryoko Hakubi, Ayeka Masaki, Washu Hakubi, Ryo-Ohki, Mihoshi, Sasami, Tsunami and Tokimi of the Tenchi Muyo series were included in this pairing to represent the 8 maids-a-milking. Tenshi Masaki is not one of them as I included Ryo-Ohki who is a girl and is Ryoko’s spaceship but also is in love with Tenchi and well, all of them are Tenchi’s harem so Tenchi is in the picture by default. They are his 8 maids-a-milking. Not literally I hope but they all work the farm in the Tenchi Muyo series while there are no Space havocs about ofcourse.

Sources:
https://hdwallpapers.cat/wallpaper_1600x1200/tenchi_muyo_ayeka_sasami_mihoshi_kain_ryoko_1600x1200_hd-wallpaper-27878.jpg

Humulus Terreux by the Bruery Terreux

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Brettanomyces, Humulus Terreux, Sinon, Sword Art Online II, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Humulus Terreux by the Bruery Terreux is a 6.3% ABV American Wild Ale with Hops and Brettanomyces

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Humulus Terreux is the type of beer that gets our stomachs tied up in knots of excitement. It’s a chance for us to experiment with both hops and yeast, creating unique, juicy & funky flavors with just these seemingly simple, earthen ingredients. Each batch of Humulus Terreux will use a different hop varietal and one of the several strains of Brettanomyces yeasts that we have incubating in our laboratory to create a one of a kind, wildly traditional bière™. The flavor possibilities are endless when combining possible hop notes of citrus, pine, flowers or grass with the barnyard funk, earth and tropics that can come from a 100% Brettanomyces fermentation. While each beer will showcase a different, distinct character, the overall result will always be dry, funky and delightfully hoppy.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one as part of the Bruery Reserve Society and Hoarders Society memberships. This one is the Bruery’s attempts at making a wild ale with lots of hops. The idea seems awesome like the wild ales and saisons that were hoppy like those from Stillwater Artisanal, Jester King and even Prairie Artisanal. My only hope is that it is the case with this one, hoppy, fruit and funky. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich fruity citrus, grapefruit juice, tropical fruit mango, pineapple, honey dew melon, strawberry, kiwi hints, Stone fruit apricot, Peppercorns, rich saison brettanomyces, Citrus, piney, grapefruit, floral, spicy, earthy and herbal hops.

Flavors:
Citrus, piney, grapefruit, floral, spicy, earthy and herbal hops, oranges, Peppercorn, Farmhouse hay, brettanomyces, tropical fruit mango, pineapple, honey dew melon, kiwi, strawberry, funky notes, hibiscus, lavender, honey, tangerine, biscuit bread, banana hints, clove spice, coriander hints, stone fruit apricot hints, peach notes, apples, lemon candy, vanilla notes, oak, waffle cone and musty grape notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with funky saison notes, herbal notes, piney, grapefruit, floral hops and some stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, Clear golden body, crisp,refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and also very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious and funky hopped Saison/Wild Ale. Drinkable by all means and still full of delicious flavor. A session type of Saison/Wild ale. I like this one because it is the kind of beer you could continuously drink many of in a session. Recommended if you love hoppy saisons or hoppy wild ales.

Anime Corner:
Sinon / Shino Asada from Sword Art Online II was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair a character that went well with the colors of the label and hops as well. Since I have not done a review from the Bruery with Sinon before, I figured this would be the best opportunity. How it relates to the beer? Well, she is a sniper so you can say the hoppy flavors are a direct hit!

Sources:
http://upload.shunwang.com/2014/0731/1406749594685.png
http://i.ytimg.com/vi/DwiwfFiWaUo/maxresdefault.jpg

Ukelele by The Buery Terreux

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, ginger spice, Koriand'r, passion fruit, Raven, sour ale, Star Fire, Teen titans, Thai Chilis, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, tropical fruit, Ukelele | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Ukelele by The Buery Terreux is a 13.5% ABV Tropical Sour Ale brewed with passion fruit, Thai Chilis, and Ginger spice aged in bourbon barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Here’s a beer that will pluck on your heartstrings. Just close your eyes and say aloha to Kauai, where the idea for Ukulele began in the form of a Passion Chili Whiskey Fizz, made with bourbon, passion fruit, Thai chili and ginger ale. Ukulele’s tone and volume intensifies with each sip, dancing on the tongue with massive, tart tropical fruit flavors and ginger spice, crescendoing with the slow-timed release of heat from ghost chili peppers and warmth from bourbon barrel-aging. Ukulele is truly a gift or reward to share with friends.
==Introduction==

Obtained this brew as part of the Reserve Society membership. This brew was released to Reserve and Hoarders members of the Bruery. This brew is the Bruery’s take on a more tropical paradise kind of beer. One aged in bourbon barrels and as many of these beers go then to be pretty awesome. I have no idea how the chili and the tropical fruit will work with this beer but I have a feeling it maybe something like the Mexican chili candies. Let’s see if that is the case. Cheers!

Aromas:
Tamarind, bourbon, honey, piloncillo sugar, oak, bourbon, tropical fruits like pineapple, lychee fruit, honey dew melon, papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, flan, Chili candy, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, ginger spice and gummy bears.

Flavors:
Tropical fruit papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, rich pineapple, honey dew melon, lychee fruit, caramel, vanilla, bourbon, oak, jalapeño pepper, ancho, marshmallows, coconut, ginger spice, fruit cake, tamarind, tejuino, tajin chili, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, Tejuino, oranges, tangerines, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, Mexican mango or water melon chili candy, flan, cinnamon, ginger bread, rye bread, toffee, gummy bears, grilled bananas, brown sugar, honey, and pilloncillo sugar cone hints.

Aftertaste:
Mild heat lingers (for the chili experienced), lots of tropical goodness, Mexican Mango candy, dark fruits, stone fruits, oak bourbon, and coconut linger. No alcohol in the taste, golden amber full body, sweet, crisp, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel, oh yeah and did I mention how ridiculously easy it is to drink this? It is dangerous!!

Overall:
One of the more exceptional sours I have ever had. It reminded me of Mexican Mango candy. This tropical sour gave me goosebumps because the flavors were tangy tropical but also spicy. There was so much going on and really kept me active and drinking. I can tell this one is spicy but for those that may not have a chili tolerance, get ready. Either way, the sweetness of his beer really plays well with the spicy aspect and the focus of tropical and spicy with the complex bourbon action is what you really get while the alcoholic strength is still small but present overall. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Starfire/Koriand’r from Teen Titans was the perfect pairing for this beer. She is so damn sweet and very innocent always open minded and caring but yet if you make her mad she has the strength and power to demolish cities! Yes, this is exactly how this beer feels. The flavor of sweetness and the heat since Starfire is ridiculous and smokingly hot explains the dominant aspects of the beer while the ABV or her demolishing power and strength take the way side mainly because you just can’t taste the alcohol. I really enjoyed this one wayyy too much. Now I have to some how get more bottles but I missed out as I only got one. If you want to try this one, head to the Bruery before it is gone this month (November 2015) or find a way to trade for it. I highly recommend it!

Sources:
http://orig08.deviantart.net/831a/f/2014/055/d/a/starfire__render__by_dafneyaneth-d77x87d.png
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/d6dfb-shunyayamashitastarfirekotobukiya.jpg
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/757/612/9a5.png

Oblivixen’s “Sangri-Leche” Maelstrom by Nubis Sanctum Ales

November 13, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Beer Barrel Bourbon, Belgian Stout, Black Cherry, Bourbon Barrel Aged, chocolate peanut butter, cocoa nibs, Dark Matter Unicorn Blood, Dragon's Milk, Krystal Fox, Milk Stout, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Oak aged, Oblivixen's “Sangri-Leche” Maelstrom, Organic Cherries, Peanut Butter Milk Stout, Star Fox, Sweet Stout, Unicorn Blood Coffee, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Oblivixen’s “Sangri-Leche” Maelstrom by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 13% ABV Belgian Imperial Peanut Butter Milk Stout brewed with Dark Matte’rs Unicorn Blood Coffee, Organic Black Cherry syrup, Cocoa Nibs and vanilla beans oak aged in Dragon’s Milk Beer Barrel Bourbon.

Label:

Belgian Imperial Peanut Butter Milk Stout brewed with Unicorn Blood Coffee, Organic Black Cherry syrup, Cocoa Nibs and vanilla beans oak aged in Dragon’s Milk Beer Barrel Bourbon.

Long ass description for a beer that has been sitting aging for more than 6 months in the dark recesses of another dimension. Yes, this beer comes from a realm of reality where the liquid itself transports your senses to an existence that not even the collapsed stars of the universe dare to peek their event horizons at. You said, “screw it, it’s just a beer” and after your first sip, now you entered the unknown dimension. There, you meet with the Foxy Vixen that helps you on your journey back home, but once you realize that you never sensed the alcohol in the first place since you were too busy indulging in the sweet Godly Ambrosia of a dessert this is. Well, it was clear as day that it was too late and in the darkness of unimaginable oblivion you remain. Don’t worry though, I am sure your next astral exploration across the quantum will be more successful. For now, just remember, a sip at a time and you’ll be fine.

Ingredients: Water, Malts, Dark Matter’s “Unicorn Blood Coffee”, Lactose Milk Sugar, Belgian Dark Candy Sugar, Cane Sugar, Peanut Butter, Organic Black Cherry syrup, Cocoa Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Oak Aged “Dragon’s Milk Beer Barrel Bourbon”, Monastery/Trappist yeast, RBY Monk’s yeast and Abbey Yeast.

==Introduction==

Proeject# 6 One of the craziest things I have ever done in my life. Yes, a real mad science experiment of a beer. After brewing 5 different beers and learning the process of aging and higher gravity beers, I decided I take a huge gamble and create a beer that was along the lines of some of the best high gravity barrel aged beers I could ever find. Yes, I am talking about Black Tuesday, Dark Lord Imperial Stout, Creme Brulee, Like is Like…, Firestone Walker Parabola and even Thirteenth Hour Belgian Stout. I figured if I could make something like that, I would definitely learn so much more about brewing extravagant beers.

So why the name Sangri Leche and Maelstrom? Maelstrom since the beer is pretty scary as a storm that is a portal to another dimension. “Sangri-Leche” meaning Bloody Milk came as a tribute to using Unicorn Blood Coffee and Milk sugar as it is part milk stout as well. Mainly though, it was suggested by my friend Richard Stan Avila after one of the episodes from our favorite show: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XONh38l6p8Q)

I started this project in April 2015 and aged the beer until today, Friday November 13, 2015. (Yes I made it so dramatic). So the day has finally come and after so much work of mashing, heating. Boiling, fermenting, pitching, siphoning, aging and bottling (Thanks to my friend William Carranza of El Borracho Hombrewing for helping me bottle the beer), I finally bring forth a beer that may actually be up there with some of the greats. I give you, my Frankenstein brew. Let’s take a look and analyze this monster, cheers!

Aromas:

Super Rich Black Cherry, Raspberry Chambord, Dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, plums, figs, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, Milk Shake, Rich Fudge Chocolate cake, port wine, bananas, clove spice, Hazelnut nectar, Walnuts, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate, toasted coconut hints, bourbon, oak, dulce de leche caramel, peanut butter, fancy coffee, roasted coffee, Mocha, Kahlua coffee Liqueur, flan, milk sugar and choco flan.

Flavors:

Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Milk Shake, Chocolate Cheese cake, Chocolate Mousse, Oreo cookies and cream, cocoa crispies, vanilla, rich oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, Mocha, roasted Coffee, fancy coffee, Kahlua coffee liqueur, Dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, plums, figs, peanut butter, coconut, Hazelnut nectar, Walnuts, pecan pie, bananas, clove spice, dark candi sugar, rock candy, capirotada raisin bread pudding, chocolate flan, tres leche cake hints, sweetened condensed milk, lactose milk sugar, Chocolate cookie dough, rocky road ice cream, Dark Fudge Chocolate cake, port wine hints, rich raspberry Chambord and more.

Aftertaste:

Lingering rich flavors

Despite the strong ABV, there is no alcohol in the taste. Dark Abyss Full Body from another dimension with a thin layer of bloody crimson, very damn smooth, creamy, velvety, syrupy, bloody and rich body and easy to drink although it should be a highly sipping beer.

Overall:

I really can’t believe I made this. I really can’t believe how exceptional and over the top this beer turned out to be. I have only few people who have tried it to thank for telling me how ridiculously special this beer was. In a way, I am extremely happy with the results. In another way I am sad that because I spent so many resources and time, I only have such a damn small batch of the beer to share with close people. I just hope maybe one day this beer can win a home brewing competition. The alcohol while high, is ridiculously masked by ridiculous complex flavors. It came out sweet and dessert like but it is still a super heavy hitter. That is why I feel it can really compete with the likes of even the most craziest of High gravity and coveted Whales. This monster is my baby and I am proud to have made this, my best beer ever! (At least until I can top it one day or make more!)

Anime Corner:

Krystal Fox from Star Fox was used in this pairing to represent the Vixen from the label description. She is only know as Oblivixen as it is a play at Oblivion (Unconscious or Unaware) and Vixen (female fox). The beer was so damn complex and dark like the vast infinite space and the vastness of the unknown that her being from Space or even another dimension made sense in my mind. Sweet on the outside she is, but deep in darkness and bloody she be. All good though, just remember this is only either a breakfast cup of coffee or a mind blowing dessert. All in all, it existence still baffles me. As the description says, you’ll be infinitely oblivious as you drink this. It will be all wort it.

Sources:

http://pre09.deviantart.net/812d/th/pre/i/2013/248/8/a/krystal_solar_mission_by_luigiix-d4osgaj.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/84/d7/23/84d723a908ff2a926838d76afd1d9523.png

https://41.media.tumblr.com/07892147fd31b195cfd9702471ae4b8d/tumblr_nnuw31YZyf1slf9f5o1_500.jpg

My Black Parade (Mi Desfile Negro) by The Lost Abbey brewing (Dia De Los Muertos Review)

November 1, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, Angel Share, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cardamom, Chiles, chocolate abuelita, Cinnamon, cocoa nibs, Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos, Kill-LA-Kill, Mi Desfile Negro, My Black Parade, Rich Chocolate Abuelita, Ryuko Matoi, The Lost Abbey, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

My Black Parade (Mi Desfile Negro) by The Lost Abbey brewing is a 12.5% ABV American Strong ale brewed with Cocoa Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Chilies, Cardamom and Cinnamon aged in Bourbon Oak barrels.

Label:
No one knew her actual name, Though to most she was simply Madame Marigold-Princess of The Black Parade. Each November 1st she led a procession through the town square to a makeshift altar at an unmarked grave.

Year after year, the processions grew larger and the celebrations more elaborate. Patiently she waited for him always. Yet, he never arrived.

Then one year, she too was gone. Her legacy endures as The Black Parade marches on despite her absence. Each fall, the entire village celebrates the lives of all the departed including Madame Marigold and her anonymous lover.
==Introduction==

Hoy es dia de los muertos (Today is day of the dead) and we celebrate the departed loved ones from friends to family. A time in Mexican culture many come together
Producing only 60 cases, this beer is essentially Bourbon Barrel Angel Share with delicious Mexican spices and ingredients mimicking dessert drinks like Mexican Hot chocolate. This beer was released by the Lost Abbey to be purchased and obtained at their location. Which meant only one thing, road trip! I had to basically go on a long journey to visit one of my favorite breweries for a second time to get this. That and also, make it through the small time frame to purchase it. If you would like to get your hands on this Dia de los Muertos beauty, you will have to trade for it or try to find it online. Will it actually be worth the time spent driving or your time and money? Well, let’s take a look at this cerveza muerta. Salud!

Aromas:
Port wine notes, cajeta envinada/ wine goat’s milk caramel, Chocolate abuelita, milk chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows, cinnamon, cardamom, oak, champurrado, Bourbon, vanilla, rich toasted coconut, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake hints, spicy chile hintslike ancho and guajillo, banana, brown sugar hints and champurrado.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, milk chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, vanilla, rich toasted coconut, flan, sweetened condensed milk hints, jericalla Mexican custard, marshmallows, cinnamon, cardamom, champurrado, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, black berries, slight hints of spicy chiles like ancho and guajillo, dulce de leche caramel, cajeta envinada/ wine goat’s milk caramel, port wine, mezcal, Khalua liquor, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake hints, molasses, anise, candy sugar, banana hints, champurrado, capirotada raisin bread pudding, earthy notes and three milks/ tres leches cake.

Aftertaste:
Mild chile spices linger after, Chocolate Abuelita, oak, bourbon, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, toasted coconut, port wine, earthy notes, dark fruit, danish cream and spicy notes. Slight booziness in the after taste but not detracting from the flavors. Pitch black and crimson full body, creamy, smooth, velvety and buttery mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional perfection no less but before I put it in the utmost bucket list, I think it needs a whole year, 2 or even 4 years to age to perfection. This reminded me so much of the Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Lord De Muerte. The chilies do linger a bit but are mainly covered by the sweetness of it all. The Lost Abbey’s attempt at it certainly brings about the Belgian as well the deliciousness that is found in some Mexican traditional hot drinks like Chocolate Abuelita. Would it be worth seeking out? Ahuevo! (Fuck Yeah!) especially if you like Bourbon Barrel aged beers with a slight Belgian inspiration.

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill and original bride character were used in this pairing to pair with la novia muerta de la boda del desfile negro (The dead bride of the wedding for the black parade). The colors she has as well as her wedding dress pairs well with the label and the colors. The aspect of death and the story of where the bride waits for her beloved to return is represented as the original character holds up the head of her beloved. Pretty tragic love story like that of El Muelle de San Blas by Mana. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teprNzF6J1I) For Ryuko though, I would say her loss of Senketsu would be something similar in the story of this beer. However, she is truly not alone as she always has Senketsu with her, she has her family and friends ( and #1 fan here 😀 ) so yeah she is awesome. That is what Dia de los Muertos is all about, togetherness.

Sources:
http://cciup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/43487375.jpg
http://g03.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1Y_IuIFXXXXbfXpXXq6xXFXXXS/The-most-gorgeous-animation-wonderful-poster-font-b-Gothic-b-font-fantasy-girl-red-style-4.jpg

2014 Tequila Barrel Aged Mexican Cake by West Brook brewing (Halloween Review)

October 31, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 2014 Tequila Barrel Aged Mexican Cake, Cinnamon Sticks, cinnnamon, cocoa nibs, Dia De Los Metroids, Dia de los Muertos, Habanero chillies, Halloween, Hatsune Miku, Imperial Stout, Metroid, Mexican Cake, Samus Aran, Tequila Barrel Aged, vanilla beans, vocaloid, West Brook brewing, World class, world class beers, World Class Imperial Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2014 Tequila Barrel Aged Mexican Cake by West Brook brewing is a 10.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, cinnamon, habanero peppers and aged 12 months in Tequila Barrels

Label:
Bottled 8/15/2014
Way back in December 2011 , they brewed 1st Anniversary beer – a serious imperial stout aged on cocoa nibs, vanila beans, cinnamon sticks , and fresh habanero peppers. It was so delicious to bring it back once each year and age it for 12 months in oak barrels.

¡Salud!

==Introduction==

Been meaning to try this beer for ages! The original Mexican was soooo good but all of them were always over priced and to some degree over hyped. Maybe it was me but I really wanted to try this one. Long behold we reach 2015 and I was able to finally land one of these for a decent price. Needless to say, splurging on something like this would be ridiculous but since I wanted it and it was at the right price, I got it. This is the first time I try a beer from Westbrook as well so definitely an honor for sure. I have tried so few Tequila barrel aged beers and so few chocolate abuelita beers but the closest I’m sure comes close to this is the Xocoveza Extra Añejo. So without further ado, here it goes. Salud!

Aromas:
Mild habanero, ancho and guajillo chiles, roasted coffee, marshmallows, piloncillo sugar cone Tequila, Agave lechugilla, mezcal, sangria vampiro, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, hazelnut nectar, dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, blueberries, figs, dark cherries, dates, Khalua liqueur, waffle cone, mocha, molasses, Champurrado, Molé hints, pan dulce, milk sugar, ginger bread, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, fruit cake, Dark and milk chocolate fudge cake.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate Abuelita, Tequila, Agave lechugilla, mezcal, charred oak, Cinnamon, Capirodatada Raisin bread pudding, fruit cake, Dark and milk chocolate fudge cake, dark cherries, dark fruits like raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, blueberries, figs, dates, ginger bread, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Khalua liqueur, waffle cone, mocha, molasses, Champurrado, earthy notes, clove spice, grilled platanitos/bananas, churros, sangria vampiro, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, hazelnut nectar, leche, mild habanero, ancho and guajillo chiles, roasted coffee, marshmallows, piloncillo sugar cone, pan dulce, milk sugar and Molé hints.

Aftertaste:
Rich Dark chocolate, cinnamon, pumpkin notes, mild pepper spice, chocolate abuelita, tequila, mezcal, agave, mocha, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, earthy raisin bread and coffee. No alcohol in the taste, dark abyss full body, very smooth, creamy, silky, velvety and mildly syrupy and a drinkability that is ridiculously easy. Careful not to finish the bottle in one sitting.

Overall:
It definitely feels like a bucket list kind of beer. As ridiculous as this is, I am really pleased I got this. Funny thing is, the spices are not in the heat but allow for a Mexican style that fits similar to how Molé is made with chile and chocolate. There are only a hand full of beers that really deserve the title a World Class and this rarity gets the one of the highest rating for it. My expectations were really blown away and maybe it is worth what the hype is about. I may have not tried the original but the Tequila variant to me especially a year aged is like a dream come true. So yes, I highly recommend this version especially since the Tequila barrel aging just adds that cherry on top of the already awesome cake to truly make, Mexican! Ahuevo Cabrones! Busquenlo!

Anime Corner:
Dia de Los Muertos Samus Aran from Metroid and Vocaloid Hatsune Miku were used in this pairing for several reasons. You can already see some aspects of Mexican themes like dia de los muertos. The Guns Samus carries would be like those Mexican revolvers, you know, to vary it up a bit. She is in the theme. Also, why did I choose Miku for this pairing? 2 reasons. The first being that I used the picture of Miku on her side with the plugsuit representing the first tequila barrel aged beer I tried from Cupaca (Tequila Barrel aged Barleywine back in 2010) and barrel aging process but second, since she played a well known Mexican song called La Bikina (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqIugY6pk0c) so I know already she will work. Also, she has so much of the blue agave colors which pair with what tequila is made but also the colors of the beer. So the singing then ties to the 3rd drawing where she has the acoustic guitar. So much tequila goodness and so much sweetness from art and flavor experiences!

Sources:
http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b580/qinchao1204/chuyin%2012/wwwafterschoolsyscom-938.jpg~original
http://fashionablygeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dead_Upload.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Hatsune.Miku.full.1518790.jpg

Kasteel Barista Chocolate Quad Brouwerij Castle Van Honsebrouck of Belgium

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Chocolates, Belgian Coffee, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Brouwerij Castle Van Honsebrouck, Chocolate Quad, Kasteel Barista, Kasteel Winter, Kill-LA-Kill, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Tootsie Rolls | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Kasteel Barista Chocolate Quad Brouwerij Castle Van Honsebrouck of Belgium is a 11% ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with Belgian Chocolate and Coffee.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Kasteel Winter (Now known as Kasteel Barista Chocolate Quad) is a unique departure from the standard Christmas ales known for their potpourri of cinnamon and clove. In fact, it stands alone as one of the most decadent and elegant Quadruples of Belgium in its own right. This 11% ABV beer pours a Chestnut brown with an off-white head. The nose is rich, with a warming scent of Coffee, Toffee, and Dried Fruits. The mouthfeel is rich and sweet like that of melted candy. The key ingredients to this delicacy is Belgian Chocolate and Coffee…noteworthy phrases in any brewers handbook. All of these elements come together to provide an after taste reminiscent of a tootsie roll.

==Introduction==

Ramirez Liquor of Boyle Heights definitely has some esoteric brews. It was there that I once found quad straight from a small town in Belgium. I’m referring to the Straffe Hendrik’s bourbon barrel quad which came in a magic crate as the legend told. Well, maybe not so much a legend but the story the dude that works there told me it was definitely pretty enticing. So here is another magical beer, this time from Castle Brewery of Van Honsenbrouck in Belgium. A chocolate quadruple that is actually made with real Belgian Chocolate and Coffee. Such a unique specimen cannot be passed up and it is one that I was glad they still had when I went to pick it up at Ramirez. So let us check this one out and see what it has to offer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark Chocolate, Mocha Coffee, tootsie roll chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, appuccino, steamed milk Butterscotch, Coffee Candy, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, figs, rock candy, candi sugar, hazelnut nectar, stone fruit peaches, fruit cake, bananas, bubblegum, ginger bread, toffee, clove spice and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted coffee, chocolate mocha coffee, cappuccino, steamed milk Butterscotch, Coffee Candy, Dulce de Leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, figs, rock candy, candi sugar, vanilla, pecan pie, rich tootsie roll chocolate, brown sugar, fruit cake notes, bubble gum, cinnamon, ginger bread, toffee, stone fruit peaches, apricots, earthy hop notes, rye bread, orange hints, banana notes, clove spice, coriander, hazelnut nectar, toasted chestnuts and flan hints.

Aftertaste:
Coffee, mocha, tootsie roll chocolate, earthy bitterness, caramel and dark fruits linger. No alcohol in the taste, Deep dark crimson medium body, silky smooth, velvety, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A supreme and exceptional quad. A quadruple that is basically perfected by Belgians and also perfected with the sweet Belgian Chocolate and Coffee that really comes through and through with every sip. I couldn’t help it but this beer tasted so damn good. The fact that it had chocolate and it was my favorite style just added more and more depth. Ofcourse, with a change in temperature comes a change in the flavors as they evolve into much richer and creamier complexities. If you love Belgian Quads, do yourself a favor and go get this tootsie, coffee, berry delight!

Anime Corner:
Ryuuko Matoi from Kill La Kill and original character abbey art were used in this pairing for different reasons. To start, this Quad was way too exceptional to pass up especially using the Ryuuko artwork where she is eating some chocolate. Her colors for the quad and label and the chocolate combine together to execute a pairing that is pretty damn exquisite! As for the original medieval/ abbey characters represent a tribute to the monks of Belgium but also a tribute to the medieval days of beer. Also since the beer is made in a castle, it fits ever more perfect. Since this was a special quadruple, I figured it fits just right. Also, that character represents different flavors especially cherries!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/f6AWK42.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/441325-1120×680-original-pixiv+fantasia-pixiv+fantasia+t-iceojin-long+hair-looking+at+viewer.jpg

Crispin 15 men by Crispin Cider Company

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 15 Men, Crispin Cider, Dark Belgian Candi, Dark Candi Sugar, Hard Cider, Rum Barrels, Rum Casks, Selvaria Bles, Valkyria Chronicles, Wild flower honey | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5* Cider Rating

Crispin 15 men by Crispin Cider Company is a 6.9% ABV Hard Cider brewed with Wild Flower Honey & Dark Candi syrup and then aged in Rum Casks

Label:
On a Dead Man’s Chest

Buccaneers & Buried treasure.
Mutiny & Murder. For the love of adventure and a barrel of rum. Drink and the devil had done for the rest.

An epic saga of Colfax classic apple wine matured in dark rum casks, then laced with wild wildflower honey and dark candi syrup.

15 Men rolls strong like a deep ocean swell with notes of burnt caramel and oak, gentle hints of ripe fall apples, vanilla, and exotic floral fruit carried on the trade winds.

Before pouring, give a solid bottoms-up tilt and swirl to disperse sediment evenly and experience the complex aroma and bouquet.

==Introduction==

It’s been a very long time since I brought a cider from Crispin for review. When I saw this one at Ramirez liquor, I wanted to give it a shot since I feel after creating a cider similar to the Saint, creating something like this maybe awesome. Basically, the inspiration to create a rum barrel/oaked cider will help me gauge how I can do more cider experiments. This one seems very delicious. I am still wondering why the cider is not dark as the dark candi sugars usually leave some liquids dark. Possibly a subtle amount was added as to not dilute the color into darkness! Cheers!

Aromas:
Tropical rum hints, oak, golden apples, marshmallow hints, wild flower honey, waffle cone, floral notes, white raisins, vanilla, cane sugar, candy sugar, dulce de leche caramel, plum hints, peach hints, pecan pie hints and sweetened condensed milk

Flavors:
Crisp Apples, vanilla, cane sugar, candy sugar, dulce de leche caramel, rum hints, oak hints, maple, marshmallow hints, wild flower honey, waffle cone, floral notes, white raisins, plum hints, golden apples, peach hints, pecan pie hints, hazelnut hints, cherries, strawberry hints, coconut hints, bubble gum, banana hints, sweetened condensed milk hints and Danish cream hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with a nice honey caramel and slight hints of oak and rum hints, candi sugar and white raisins. No alcohol in the taste, clear to medium golden apple body, crisp, clean and refreshing and super easy to drink despite the ABV. Even so, do take your time with it to enjoy its infinite subtleness.

Overall:
Damn delicious and complex little cider. The flavors are not super overwhelming but the hints are super complex which was kind of hard to find but became apparent as the cider became warmer. I think that is why I was able to find this one very delicious. The fact that something like this can be replicated makes me want to brew my own cider in accordance to Crispin’s ingredients. This is how I was able to make a similar yet stronger version of “The Saint”. Definitely give this one a shot if you love ciders.

Anime Corner:
Selvaria Bles from Valkyria Chronicles and the original character pirate girl were used in this pairing to pair with the pirate theme of this cider. The colors may correlate to the flavors of the beer as they do not correlate to the color of the cider or the label although some colors may do. The dark candi sugar, oak, rum and wildflower honey definitely goes with the colors of Selvaria and the pirate girl for sure though.

Sources:
http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/12/127673/1868893-230ae2915dd2a565897e25fb2deef206.jpeg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/414864-1000×1333-gang+road+joker-tob-long+hair-tall+image-black+hair-fringe.png

Pulp Addiction Juice Box Series “Blood Orange” by The Dudes brewing

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Blood Orange, Blood Orange Zest, Ecuadorian cocoa nibs, Juicebox Series, Madagascar vanilla beans, Metal Slug, Nadia Cassel, orange cream, Pulp Addiction, The Dudes brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Pulp Addiction Juice Box Series “Blood Orange” by The Dudes brewing is a 6.5% ABV Amber Ale brewed with Madagascar vanilla beans, Ecuadorian cocoa nibs and Blood Orange Zest

Label:
Orange Whip? Orange Whip? 3 Orange Whips.
Here’s a brew that will “A Peel”to you! A tantalizing blend of cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, and hand-zested California Blood Orange Flavors makes this dude semi-sweet yet silky smooth. Every sip is bursting with creamy, chocolaty, citrusy flavor – and at 6.5 percent alcohol by volume, it’s sure to get your blood pumping. Orange you glad you picked this up?

==Introduction==

Huzzah! At last, the sweet sweet nectar of chocolate orange delight has finally been canned. While I did want to do a review of this one for a very long time since it’s release on taps, I finally got some cans from Ramirez Liquor after I saw they had it canned. I remember this beer very well and while it is very delicious off of the tap and especially on nitro, I want to see how it fairs in cans as many who cannot make it to the Torrance California area but are able to pick up this one will want to know. So let’s take a look at this one shall we?

Aromas:
Oranges, tangerine, grapefruit, blood orange juice, tootsie rolls, bubblegum, Milk Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, brown sugar, vanilla, caramel, pecan pie notes, caramel,gummy bears, coriander spice, stone fruit peaches, earhy notes and honey.

Flavors:
Milk Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, brown sugar, vanilla, caramel, tangerine, oranges, pecan pie, bubble gum, tootsie rolls, rye bread, dark fruit hints, biscuit bread, stone fruit peach hints, grapefruit soda, blood orange juice, Sunny Delight citrus, earthy notes, toffee, honey, rainbow sherbet ice cream, candi sugar, orange marmalade, matured oranges and gummy bears.

Aftertaste:
Orange, chococolate, vanilla, earthy notes, caramel, biscuit bread, honey and grapefruit hops. No alcohol in the taste, Dark Amber light to medium body, creamy, silky, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Love this beer! Perfect! I am glad I was finally able to bring this one here to the site for review. Not many breweries make a chocolate orange creamsicle beer, but the Dudes got this one on lockdown. I know the Bruery’s version is not available anymore but this one is no doubt the next best thing especially since it is chocolate orange flavored. Highly recommended to those that love orange creamsicles.

Anime Corner:
Nadia Cassel from Metal Slug was brought here for a first time review as I wanted to pair her colors and tenacity in the game to the beer. She pairs well with this one as her hair color and eyes go well with the beer label. The bubblegum she blows is similar to the orange drinking from the straw but also the bubblegum and tootsie roll flavors of the beer. Overall citrusy and sweet.

Sources:
http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/10/101969/1658776-metal_slug_ensemble.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Nadia.Cassel.full.1013569.jpg

Paris Of The West by Almanac beer company

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Almanac Brewing, Aqua, Belgian Candi sugar, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Flame Raisins, Kingdom Hearts, oranges, Paris Of The West | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Paris Of The West by Almanac beer company is a 9.5% ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with Flame Raisins, candi sugar and oranges.

Label:
San Francisco, aka, “The Paris Of The West”, has long been home to a diverse culture of creative bohemians and a bastion of art, creativity and progressive thinking. This decadent dark ale was created in that same spirit – brewed with dark candi sugar, dried flame grapes and orange pee, then fermented with a French ale yeast. Pair with funky Roquefort cheese and visions of a grand tomorrow!

==Introduction==

Obtained this one when visiting Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights California. Quadruples are always the best beers in my honest opinion or atleast my most favorite. This Quad is introduced with using Flame raisins and oranges. Typically, a good quadruple will always carry the flavor of dark fruits initially but I do not think I have ever seen a quadruple made with Flame Raisins. Nor have I tried a beer from Almanac that is actually a 22oz. either. There is always room for new stuff and hence the reason I wanted to try it. So lets take a look at this one. Cheers!

Aromas:
Orange notes, dulce de leche caramel, fruit cake, bananas, clove spice, anise, coriander spice, dark fruit raisins, plums, dates, figs, boysenberries, currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, vanilla, pecan pie candi sugar, rock candy, biscuit bread, capirotada raisin bread pudding, chocolate notes and toffee.

Flavors:
Rich Dark fruit raisins, plums, dates, figs, boysenberries, currants, candi sugar, rock candy, capirotada raisin bread pudding, biscuit bread, orange notes, bananas, clove spice, anise, coriander spice, ginger spice, fruit cake, chocolate notes, toffee, rye bread, tangerine preserves, strawberries, dark cherries, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, vanilla, stone fruit peaches, apricots and old mango.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits, Stone fruits, oranges and candi sugar linger along with some earthy notes. No alcohol in the alcohol in the taste, dark amber full body, smooth, creamy, silky and velvety mouthfeel as well as a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect quad! Definitely showing the many flavors of what I love about quads including the dark fruits, chocolate, clovey banana notes and more. The combination of ingredients of this one give way to to other delicious flavors and spices. While it is not as delicious as the actual quadruples from Belgium, this one really was a delicious treat either way. Seek this one out and give it a shot if you like Belgian Quadruples.

Anime Corner:
Aqua from Kingdom Hearts was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the vibrant dark fruits and label as well as the complex flavors. Aqua currently lies in the darkness of the abyss in accordance to the story to someday see the light. The darkness of this beer represent this but because the beer is flavorful and sweet, you can tell it represents how well she is fairing in the dark. Or atleast that is what I believe.

Sources:
http://konachan.com/jpeg/b60980bdeaec540e9de64ffeab4f559c/Konachan.com%20-%20167169%20aqua_%28kingdom_hearts%29%20blue_eyes%20blue_hair%20hanadog%20kingdom_hearts%20short_hair%20water.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zreqqGqen9s/TYVMJfJFfsI/AAAAAAAABh8/gXmFxva4N_I/s1600/266435.jpg

24 Carrot Golden Ale collaboration by Juli Goldenberg, Stone brewing and Monkey Paw brewing

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 24 Carrot Golden Ale, American Home Brewers Association, belgian golden ale, Bugs Bunny, Carrot Cake, Carrots, Cinnamon, Juli Goldenberg, Lola Bunny, Looney Toons, Monkey Paw brewing, Raisins, Space Jam, Stone Brewing, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

24 Carrot Golden Ale collaboration by Juli Goldenberg, Stone brewing and Monkey Paw brewing is an 8.5% ABV Belgian Carrot Cake Golden Ale brewed with Carrots, Cinnamon, Raisins and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
2015 marked the seventh year of our American Homebrewers Association-sanctioned Stone Homebrew Competition. As in the previous years, dozens of Southern California’s finest recreational fermentationist brought their “A” games. While judging their impressive and wide-ranging handiwork, we noticed something -many of the homebrew entries we’ve received over the history of this competition have incorporated culinary elements of been crafted to mimic the flavors of popular dishes and beverages. From Mexican hot chocolate to Black Forest cake, after-dinner mints to piña coladas, the gold medalist from our annual brewing battle have tackled some interesting and challenging flavor profiles…and persevered. But none have been as foodie-forward as the quaff concocted by this year’s winner, Juli Goldenberg. Our first-ever female victor added carrots, raisins, cinnamon and more to a Belgian-style golden strong ale to create a beer that is the liquid embodiment of carrot cake. The aforementioned flavor enhances bring the fruity, carroty and spice elements to the cake, while vanilla and milk sugar contribute the flavor and creamy texture of fluffy cream cheese frosting. The result: nothing short of brilliant and well deserving of the 24 karat (carrot?) golden opportunity to be brewed by Stone and distributed across the country.

“Homebrewing offers the chance to experiment with pretty much anything you can think of to do to a beer. I am so excited to collaborate with Stone, an icon of San Diego craft beer, and Monkey Paw, a model for continuous experimentation. Cheers to weird beers!”

Juli Goldenberg// Winner, Stone Homebrewing Competition

“Working with Stone and Juli to incorporate culinary artistry and homebrewing innovation into a project of this scale is above and beyond any brewing experience I’ve had.”

Cosimo Sorrentino//Head Brewer, Monkey Paw Brewing Company

“Juli’s recipe is the perfect demonstration of the Innovation and spirit of the fantastic San Diego homebrewing community. It is our distinct pleasure to brew this beer with her.”

Mitch Steele//Brewmaster, Stone Brewing Co.
==Introduction==

Stone’s newest homebrewing competition winning collaboration is here and it is definitely different. For the many brews I have tried over the years, I do not think there has been a carrot cake like beer. I am always open to crazy beer recipes (just like the 99 scorpions). When executed correctly, these beers can be awesome and some will give new experiences. This type of experimentation is kind of what pushes me to try something new now that I do my own homebrewing. It should pave the way for the culinary arts to meet the craft beer arts. Let’s take a look and see what this carrot cake beer is all about.

Aromas:
Carrot cake hints, cinnamon, citrus, grapefruit, grassy and tropical hop bitterness, Golden raisins, Dark fruit raisins, plums, flan, dulce de leche caramel, apple notes, brown sugar, banana hints, clove spice, candy sugar, honey, horchata notes, guava, mango hints, stone fruit peaches, raspberry hints, Danish cream, butterscotch and vanilla.

Flavors:
Rich Carrot Cake flavors with citrus, grapefruit, grassy and tropical hop bitterness, Carrot juice, Golden raisins, Dark fruit raisins, plums, cinnamon, flan, dulce de leche caramel, flan, vanilla, brown sugar, hazelnut nectar, Candi Sugar, piloncillo hints, horchata notes, guava, mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, stone fruit peaches, raspberry hints, Danish cream, butterscotch, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, crème brulee, bananas and clove spice.

Aftertaste:
Citrusy, grassy, piney hop after taste with the full fledged flavors of the carrot cake like the carrot juice, whipped cream, brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins left. No alcohol in the taste. Clear golden orange body, smooth creamy, silky and refreshing mouth feel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious Golden ale that really does taste like what it sets out to be, a carrot cake dessert in a bottle. Essentially I couldn’t help but notice how very similar it was to my Bubulubu White Choco Stout/Golden Ale in the sense that if I took out the Coffee and Cocoa nibs and replaced it with Carrot concentrate, raisins and cinnamon, and the rest was the same like the milk sugar, vanilla beans and the Golden Ale stout, then you pretty much have a similar tasting and very delicious beer. I highly recommend this one as it really took the aspect of culinary and home brewing the next level here. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Lola Bunny from Looney Toons and Space Jam was chosen in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the aspect of Carrots and Rabbits. I could of gone with Bugs Bunny, but you don’t often get to see Lola and she is perfect as she also has the orange basketball which pairs nicely with the colors of the beer carrots. Since this beer reminded me so much of the Bubulubu one I made, Lola is a reminder as her brown fur was the color or my beer that tasted similar to this.

Sources:
http://orig11.deviantart.net/d65c/f/2015/203/f/0/lola___space_jam_by_namwhan_k-d92bs0y.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/36/c6/a6/36c6a6ea0825ab5966d02213589892c7.jpg

Nein by Surly brewing

October 27, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 9th Anniversary, anniversary ale, Asuka, Asuka Langley, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, Charred Oak Barrels, Dunkelweizen, Evangelion, Mari Illustrious, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Nein, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Rei, Rei Ayanami, Smoked Ale, Smoked Hefeweizen, surly, Surly 9 | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/6

Nein by Surly brewing is a 10% ABV Smoked Dunkelweizen/Rauchbier aged in Charred Oak barrels.

Label:
Who would have thought, when we sold our first keg in 2006, that we would raise our 9th Anniversary glasses in a new brewery, restaurant, and beer hall? So much has changed in such a short time, both at Surly and across Minnesota. The state’s beer scene is exploding and we are proud to have been part of the boom. Two things, however, haven’t changed a bit – Todd’s distinctive take on beer styles and our local artists’ amazing talent. Erica Williams’ meticulous design for NEIN is the perfect match for Todd’s approach to his craft.

Cheers to nine years!

Inspired by a recent trip to Bamberg, Germany. NEIN is brewed with oak-smoked wheat malt, fermented with German Hefe yeast and aged on charred oak. It’s a huge, complex, dark beer, delivering the intense flavors of smoked banana, vanilla and clove.

==Introduction==

Surly is one of those breweries that really stands on its own. An awesome complex and evil (in the demon theme) but deliciously good brewery that really stands out just like the Three Floyds. However, unlike Three Floyds, there is a sense of strong appreciation that is not overly hyped and yet consistently themed, especially since their beers maybe a little difficult but still obtainable if you are able to look hard enough. A world class brewery with so much to say about its awesome glory in the craft beer world that brings a lot of crazy awesome brews. Now for their 9th anniversary ale, it is my pleasure to bring it forth to the site. Cheers!

Aromas:
Smoked oak wood, dark chocolate, banana notes, clove spices, dark fruits like, raisins, figs, prunes, plums, cherry notes, oatmeal cookies, toasted coconut , fruit cake, brown sugar, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, marshmallow smore hints, anise, and maple hints.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, smoked biscuit, grilled bananas, plantain, clove spice, coriander spice, mint chocolate, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, figs, prunes, plums, cherry notes, blue berry notes, stone fruit peach, oatmeal cookies, molasses, anise, coffee cake, maple notes, dulce de leche, vanilla, biscuit bread, toasted coconut hints, flan, fruit cake, oak, smokey campfire, chocolate marshmallow smores, graham crackers, piloncillo sugar cone, banana nut bread, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie and boysenberry cobbler.

Aftertaste:
Smoked wheat, bananas, dark chocolate, earthy notes, clove spices, anise, fruit cake and oak. No alcohol in the taste, dark brown full body, creamy, smooth and chewy mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptional beer reminiscent of an old favorite of mine called “Art of Darkness” Ommegang but also some other smoked heffs I had a while back. Unique as always still, Surly has made this one quite unite not being overly smokey but still being everything it can be from the banana clovey and spicy notes that I enjoy from lots of my German beers. An imperial German beer at that and very much full force in terms of flavors. Get this one while it lasts! Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Mari Illustrious, Rei Ayanami and Asuka Sohryu Langley/Shikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion were used in this pairing as I wanted to pair mainly with the 3 lions and the multiple eyes similarly to the way the Evas (Humanoid/Alien Robots from the show) appear but also right down to their core which is what these 3 awesome girls represent. On one hand, you have each representing the lion, especially with Asuka being the German Japanese influencer, Rei the dark fruit and Smoking hot yet intellectually mixed Mari and the other the lions as robots and then them wearing the dresses. The whole point of the dresses was for a celebration!!!!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/C7MkFnC.jpg
http://k38.kn3.net/taringa/1/2/4/2/4/0/03/marduk5233/EAD.jpg?2675

Rojzilla by Jolly Pumpkin

October 2, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged american oak barrels, Flanders, Flanders Red Ale, Godzilla, jolly pumpkin, La Roja, Michigan Sour Biere, oak barrels, Polly, Polly Ester, Polly Esther, Pururun, Rojzilla, Samurai Pizza Cats | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Rojzilla by Jolly Pumpkin is a 7.4% ABV Michigan Sour Amber/Flanders Biere aged and oak barrels.

Label:

‘Twould Fill With Joy, and madness Stark

The Hoi Polloi!

That’s a quote – Can’t remember from whence at the moment.

==Introduction==

Finally, the king of all Flanders beer monsters has arrived. This beer is essentially La Roja but aged for a year-and-a-half in a 100-bbl oak foudre then split into regular oak barrels at varying ages which basically creates a mutated, radioactive giant red cat that’s pissed! Not the average Puss N’ Boots or the General Cat of La Roja Du Kriek. This is what happens when that very red cat is pumped full of catnip to levels over 9000! Seems legit to me and as a Godzilla tribute, Fuck YEAH! This beer was damn hard to find online until I found the K&L Wines that provided 1 per customer purchase. As much harder to find that La Roja or even the elusive Roja Du Kriek. Time to take on a beast decades in the making!

Aromas:

Stone fruit tart apricots, peaches, apples, mango hints, Rich oak caramel, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, rye bread, lemons, wine grapes, Chardonay, Cherry yogurt, Tart raspberries, cranberries, Strawberry Danish hints, Concorde grape hints, tejuino maize drink, tart orange peel, coriander, minor hints of tropics like dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee and musty earthy notes.

Flavors:

Deep oak, vanilla hints, dulce de leche caramel hints, wine grapes, Cherry yogurt, Tart Raspberries, lemons, Strawberry Danish, floral notes of hibiscus, lavender, dark fruit raisins, plums, dark cherries, figs, cranberries, peppercorn, coriander spice, butterscotch hints, rye bread, rose petals, Stone fruit tart apricots, peaches, apples, mango hints, tejuino salted maize cocktail, rye bread, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee fruit, chamomile, musty earthy notes, puckering tart oranges, biscuit bread, toffee hints, ginger spice and honey dew melon hints.

Aftertaste:

Super Dry finish with lots of oak, cherry notes, wine grapes, earthy notes and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, smooth and creamy mouthfeel, Amber medium body and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:

Damn crazy sour amber with a variety of super complex flavors that I think many who love sours will come to appreciate. While La Roja is a strong component in this beer, the complex oak by using different barrels makes this one pretty crazy. I do not think I have ever seen that done for any beer really. It makes this one unique and well definitely worth a pick up if you love sours, but only if you love sours really. Love me some sours and those that do, go get this one!

Anime Corner:

Pururun/Polly Esther from Samurai Pizza Cats returns here for this pairing as I wanted to represent how La Roja went even more wild than before to the point that it became a beast as Polly unleashes! As a Tribute to Godzilla, I added the Female personification of the raged nuclear Godzilla and also the Samurai Armored/Gundam version of Polly as it represent the other love for robots! The pairings pair with the label mainly but also the Gian 100BBL barrel that they had used to ferment this great beer.

Sources:

http://i.imgur.com/mmPpgnK.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/7HFT2hc.png

http://img09.deviantart.net/9801/i/2014/172/2/5/burning_godzilla_by_gamerag3-d7nao3z.jpg

PranQster by North Coast Brewing

October 1, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged belgian golden ale, Chuck, Garterbelt, North Coast Brewing, Panty, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Panty and Stocking, PranQster, Stocking | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

PranQster by North Coast Brewing is a 7.6% ABV Belgian Golden Ale.

Label:
Belgian Ales represent the height of the brewers’ art. Sophisticated brewing techniques, yeast blends and unique flavoring elements have elevated the beers of Belgium to the status enjoyed by wine in other countries. PranQster follows in this tradition using a mixed culture of antique yeast strains that results in a floral nose, a full fruity flavor and a clean finish.

==Introduction==

First time I tried this beer was in 2012. Fastforward to 2015, and my friend Jose, aka Chino, gives me a bottles of beer as payment for fixing his wife’s computer and I was like, SOLD! I had tried many of the other ones including this one but to be honest, I never really had the chance to just sit down and review it. Many of North Coast brews like Old Rasputin and Grand Cru, which are some of my favorites I cheer on about. PranQster was a very delicious beer but I guess I just never brought it to the site, until now! So without further ado, lets take a look at PranQster.

Aromas:
Floral notes, honey, pineapple, grapefruit notes, banana esters, phenolic clove spice, Oranges, peppercorns, wafflecone, pears, bubblegum hints, lemon candy, rock candy, candy sugar, stone fruit peaches, mango, apricots, vanilla, kiwi hints, papaya, passion fruit, coriander spice and cane sugar.

Flavors:
Oranges, peppercorns, Floral notes, honey, pineapple, grapefruit notes, banana esters, phenolic clove spice, candy sugar, stone fruit peaches, mango, apricots, vanilla, kiwi hints, papaya, passion fruit, coriander spice, honey dew melon, wafflecone, pears, bubblegum hints, lemon candy, rock candy and flan hints.

Aftertaste:
Dry finish with peppercorn, stone fruits, phenolic and estery banana notes, Grapefruit hops and floral notes. No alcohol in the taste, Sipping drinkability, clear golden light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel.

Overall:
A very good Golden ale representative of the delicious beers of Belgians, especially Belgian singles. Phenolic, Clovey and spicy like the many greats before it. Not in the Tripel category but pretty near it. A solid Golden for sure and one that is worth trying for sure but not one that I would consistently pick up. I guess my taste for Golden ales has expanded to something even higher. However, for those that are craft beer entry level, this is a good introduction to the delicious worlds of Belgians. Delicious and not overly punching.

Anime Corner:
Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt and also Chuck! cosplaying as the Gorillaz were used in this pairing as they represent the gluttony of the dudes in the label. Mainly though, for the name, pranQster. They are up to no good playing by their own rules. They do what they want. This beer is refreshing and it does what it wants in your taste buds. At one time it will be lots of fruit and at another time it won’t. Learn to play a prank on this one if you will be one to succeed.

Sources:
http://wallpaperus.org/wallpapers/05/187/gillaz-stocking-1980×1080-wallpaper-947494.jpg

Matt’s Burning Rosids (1.5 years aged) by Stone Brewing

October 1, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, Cherry Blossoms, CherryWood, Hatsune Miku, Matt Courtright, Matt's Burning Rosids, Miku, Rosids, Saison, Sakura Miku, Smoked Ale, Stone Brewing, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

Matt’s Burning Rosids (1.5 years aged) by Stone Brewing is a 10.5% ABV Imperial CherryWood Smoked Saison.

Label:
Honoring His Memory
Matt Courtright

Life is extraordinarily precious, joyous…and fragile. In 2013, we suffered the tragic loss of our dear friend and coworker, Matt Courtright. In the midst of our grief, we pulled together as the family we are, suggesting and exploring numerous ways to pay tribute to our dearly departed colleague. In the end, we felt there was no finer way to honor his memory than to brew one of his most recent and special beer recipes.

Everyone at Stone recognized Matt’s prowess and passion for brewing. He loved to explore all beer could be, rather than limit himself or his brews to accepted parameters. He conceived a Belgian-style saison with his Stone friend and compatriot, Brian Bishop. Infused with cherrywood-smoked malt, the beer was dubbed Burning Rosids, referencing the rosid plant family from which cherry trees hail.

Matt’s smile and voluminous laugh were infectious mainstays around the brewery. By no means a shrinking violet, he was exuberant, courageous, unfailingly positive and the type of stalwart friend that everyone was happy to have in their corner. He was larger than life in so many ways…and without a doubt, an incredible brewer. We, Matt’s brewing comrades and friends at Stone were proud to hoist our mash paddles and brew this recipe as a symbolic gesture of how much he meant to everyone and how immensely we will miss him.

Rather than regarding Burning Rosids as a somber memento, please think of it as a celebration of Matt. We do. When you drink this very special beer, please join us in raising your glass, both in Matt’s memory and in tribute to everything he so passionately stood for: caring for others, passion and skill for his art, and laughter…lots of laughter. Among the long list of things he held dear were GoDesignInc.org, a charity committed to fulfilling the architectural needs of developing communities around the world; and TKF, a non-profit working to stop youth violence by educating, mentoring and making positive impacts on high-risk communities. We are proudly contributing funds earned through the sale of this beer to this worthy organization in Matt’s honor.

Enjoy, and please remember that life and those we hold dear are precious gifts to be cherished every day. Consider sharing this beer, conversations on life’s passions and, again, lots of laughter, with good friends as we remember ours.

Stonebrewing.com/BurningRosids

==Introduction==

Picked this one up as it is no longer brewed. I love that it is still around in some locations. Never got a chance to do a review but since I do remember how good this one was back then, I wanted to do the review. It is a special beer in honor of someone who lived and died for their passion, which was craft brewing. Many would say how they die by the sword as an honor to serve the greater purpose. Life is short and the meaning is to live for something you love. In this modern society case, we live and breathe craft beer and share with our loved ones our passion for what the craft beer movement really stands for. So much so, that as for me, trying different beers, to reviewing them and now home brewing to share that passion and educate others is something that I really do love. Everyone has something they cherish. Well, for me, my family and friends are very important, but also share the love Anime and Craftbeer. So to bring this beer forth and review but also reflect on life and its own treasures of the senses and experience, I can simply just raise that glass and say cheers to life, to Matt and all other passionate people that really work hard to make that difference in people’s life for even the smallest influence and contribution changes the world for the better. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich honey, orange preserves, orange peel, tangerine marmalade, floral notes like lavender, hibiscus, roses, sakura cake, rich stone fruit peaches, peach nectar, apricots, mango hints, bananas, clove spice, peppercorn, coriander spice, lemon notes, rye bread, toffee, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, phenolic notes, candy sugar, maple syrup, guava quince cheese (Membrillo), butterscotch and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Honey, honeysuckle, sakura cake, rich stone fruit peaches, peach nectar, apricots, mango hints, bananas, clove spice, peppercorn, smokey notes, plum sauce, mild tartness, Tejuino hints, white raisins, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, waffle cone, marshmallows, grapefruit, oranges, coriander spice, lemon notes, rye bread, toffee, butterscotch, floral notes of lavender, raw like the sun orange preserves on toasted biscuit bread, Rich tangerine marmalade, guava quince cheese (Membrillo), dulce de leche caramel, phenolic notes, candy sugar, maple syrup and Mexican sweet bread.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some smokey notes, stone fruit peach, orange preserves, earthy notes, grapefruit and floral hops and bananas. No alcohol in the taste as it has mellowed over time, easy to moderate drinkability, creamy, syrupy and a Golden Cherry light to medium body.

Overall:
1 year and a half later and this beer is damn phenomenal. So much more richer flavors than when I first tried it on tap sometime last year. The rich phenolic flavors of the Belgian styles, Saisons along with the smokiness that brings about delicious flavors that developed overtime. Essentially, giving way to much stronger fruits and flowers. Much like the way the flowers blossom when they are ripe. This is very delicious and if you ever find more of this beer, it is worth saving a couple of bottles. In Matt’s memory, he would have loved this beer. Cheers to you Matt!

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Sakura Miku was used in this pairing for the Cherry blossoms/Sakura aspect of the flavors and cherry wood. I have not used this Cherry version of Miku as I never knew it existed. My original pairing for the beer was mainly to be something with cherries, the forest or even burning rosids. I found this artwork as I feel it pairs the best. Very lighthearted, innocent but yet power and delicious like the beer and the tribute to Matt.

Sources:
http://img4q.duitang.com/uploads/item/201404/05/20140405212216_QmzfH.png

Blå Spøg Else collaboration by Mikkeller and Three Floyds

October 1, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 3 Floyds, Blå Spøg Else, Blå Spøgelse, Blue Ghost, Blueberry Lambic, collaboration, Fire Emblem, Guilty Gear, Ky Kyske, Lambic, Lucina, Metroid, Mikkeller, Namco, Nintendo, oak barrels, Pacman, PakuPaku, Samus Aran, Sol Badgirl, Three Floyds | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Blå Spøg Else collaboration by Mikkeller and Three Floyds is a 7.7% ABV Blueberry Lambic aged in Oak Barrels.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
The newest addition to the ever expanding collaboration brew list. Once again arm in arm with our FFF brothers. Blå Spøgelse, paving the way with its blueberry and oak barrel action, will knock you right off your feet.

==Introduction==

Been looking for this beer for 2 years! Blå Spøgelse or ‘Blue ghost’, just like when Pacman collects the large pill and the ghosts turn blue. This beer is essentially a major tribute to Pacman and as such, was one of the reasons I wanted to bring it forward to the website as it represents a great deal to the Video Game Community along with the Craftbeer community. Many adults in this age will recognize that retro label for sure. Especially those that love sours. Mikkeller and Three Floyds are not your average players in the craft beer industry but are definitely high in the popular craft chain just like The Bruery, Stone, Russian River and even Firestone Walker in California. So anyway, the fact that this beer is finally here, let’s take a look and get READY! To chomp on… umm…. try some delicious beer Insert Pacman Theme Paku Paku Paku Paku!

Aromas:
Dark fruits raisins, plums, tart raspberry, stone fruits like apricots, sour wine grapes, blueberries, flowers like hibiscus, chamomile, lavender, roses, oak, vanilla, caramel, Blueberry yogurt, Blueberry cheese cake hints, lemon hints and funky notes.

Flavors:
Blueberry yogurt, Blueberry cheese cake, vanilla, oak, hibiscus, lavender, wine grapes, port wine notes, tart blackberries, dark fruit raisins, plums figs, hints of Danish cream sweetness, banana hints, Belgian phenolic notes, funky notes, rich lemons and lemon peel, Stone fruit tart apricots, Concorde grapes, blueberry cobbler hints, tart green apples, blueberry pie, pecan pie, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, marshmallow hints, anise, hints of chocolate, mushrooms, vegetable hints and sangria mezcal grape hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with creamy cheese cake or blueberry pie sweetness but over super sour tart blueberries, raspberries, vanilla, stone fruit, oak and dark fruit. No alcohol in the taste, Super purple and magenta full body, creamy, effervescent, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel, sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A sour but a sour pushing some boundaries. A lot of the extra credit for this beer came in especially from the way they were able to balance it out with some complex sweetness as this is not your typical sour. While the sourness is the forefront of the beer, the other half is taken over by a complex fruitiness and and dessert like characteristics. Glad I was able to find it after a 2 year search! Essentially, it took them a while to brew it and have be brought here to the states. Go find this one online before it is gone for sure! If you love sours, this is awesome!

Anime Corner:
Samus Aran from Metroid, Ky Kyske & Sol Badgirl from Guilty gear, Lucina from Fire Emblem and even PacMan himself all pair with this unique beer as a tribute to Pacman. Samus represents Pacman in this pairing as it looks like she is traveling through corridors of light and darkness like Pacman would. She has the same hair color as pacman and blue for blueberries. Ky represents Pacman and Sol the Ghosts in the pacman games and finally, Pacman himself with Lucina representing the blueberries. Overall, Pacman beer tribute complete!

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/ed/d2/7c/edd27ccfc65b1cc96d657eb442a62e56.jpg
http://konachan.com/image/0ce5476e8e38f8d5942e514028b21151/Konachan.com%20-%2024049%20cosplay%20guilty_gear%20ky_kiske%20sol_badguy.jpg
http://i3.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2014/10/02/23/23/08/46313650_p0.jpg

Beer# 31 Ume Umai (Delicious Plum) by Gigantic brewing

October 1, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Black Rice, Delicious Plum, Forbidden Rice, Gigantic Brewing, Kancolle/Kantai Collection, Plums, Specialty Grain Ale, Ume Umai, Wo-Class | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.35/5

Beer# 31 Ume Umai (Delicious Plum) by Gigantic brewing is a 7.5% ABV Specialty Grain Ale brewed with Plums and Black Rice.

Label:
“Party For Your Right To Fight.” – Chuck D

Inspireed by the Japanese flavor palette, we combined plums, black rice and pilsner to make a unique beer experience. Brewed “Dry” in the asian manner, Ume Umai is fruity yet earthy and above all, refreshing and delicious.
==Introduction==

Its been a long time for a Gigantic beer review. I don’t often get a chance to try their beers but they have been coming out more frequently however. Which hopefully I will be trying more if something intrigues my eyes. Ume Umai or Japanese for “Delicious Plum” is the beer I bring forth. With Plum and Black Rice or Forbidden rice which is mainly native to countries such as China, Thailand and Indonesia. An interesting ingredient at that and some forms of this rice comes in like a purple color.

Aromas:
Plum soda, Sake hints, Red bean ice cream mochi balls, peppercorn spice, caramel, vanilla, bubble gum, clove spice, bananas, oranges, Lychee fruit, Coriander spice, sakura cakes, ginger spice hints, grape skins, guava notes, lavender, sweet rice balls, cane sugar, apples, floral hops and cereal grain.

Flavors:
Oranges, Lychee fruit, Coriander spice, Rice pudding, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit plums, Red bean ice cream mochi balls, peppercorn spice, caramel, vanilla, bubble gum, clove spice, bananas, rice cakes, sakura cakes, ginger spice hints, grape skins, guava notes, sake notes, sweet rice balls, cane sugar, apples, floral hops, hibiscus, lavender hints, sweetened condensed milk, biscuit bread, plum sauce and cereal grain.

Aftertaste:
Leaving traces of dark fruits, stone fruits, hints of tropics, earthy notes, rice pudding, sakura cakes and coriander spice with oranges. No alcohol in the taste, cloudy full golden body, creamy, crispt, effervescent and full mouthfeel and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very good brew with some very Japanese like flavors especially the rice dessert flavors. With the plum combination, this turned out to be very sweet and interesting. Being a smooth and lagerish like beer full of a complex flavor that was definitely worthy of merits. While it was not super boastful in its flavors as it was not head on fruits but lightly noted, it definitely gave it some credit for being above refreshing. Worth a try and maybe more.

Anime Corner:
Wo-Class from Kancolle/Kantai Collection was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair a character that has an octopus or some kind of tentacle monster on their head and went well with the flavors and ingredients of the beer like the color of the dark fruits and plums as well as the rice patties from where the black rice came from. Simply put, pairing that works with the beer label and flavors and colors.

Sources:
http://file.blog.fc2.com/jingaidaisuki/dec71d57f928_134E4/sinnkai059.jpg
http://konachan.com/sample/24261575452244fa04602ce2e80ffb9c/Konachan.com%20-%20189426%20sample.jpg

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

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

Rating: 6/6

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doppel Sticky by Lagunitas brewing

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

Rating: 4.75/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rating: 5.25/6

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rainbow Triplin’ by Stone brewing

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

Rating: 5/5

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rating: 4.75/5

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

Label:
Floral – Citrusy – Mineralic

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prairie Rue collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Prairie Artisan Ales

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

Rating: 5.25/5

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery

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

Rating: 5.25/5

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

Label:
“Shiver me Timbers!”

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rating: 5/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ride That Goat (AKA Bokkenrijder) by The Bruery

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

Rating: 6/6

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

Label:
Let’s Ride!

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2015 Batch No.1 Levud’s by The Bruery

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

Rating: 5/5

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

Label:
LIMITED RUN

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Endless Nameless by Cigar City

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

Rating: 6/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pumpkin Spice Milk Stout by Belching Beaver

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

Rating: 4.45/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stochasticity Project Your Father Smelt Of Elderberries by Stone brewing

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

Rating: 4.5/5

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

Label:
STOCHASTICITY
STO-KAESTI-CITY
There is no happenstance or coincidence. Dumb luck is a fallacy and randomness a commonly accepted mistruth. Much of what seemingly falls into place and seems so natural is a result of Stochasticity, a concept embraced and exalted by this special and unpredictable series of beers, where exotic notions, ingredients and ideas coalesce at an interesting and often unexpected endpoint.

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

Beer Facts

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

Hop Varieties
English Goldings and Target

Special Ingredient
Elderberries

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing

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

Rating: 4.5/5

Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing is a 7% ABV Belgian Dubbel

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Decadence 2015 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith

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

Rating: 5/5

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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