Canebrake by Parish Brewing

August 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Broussard, Canebrake, Louisiana, Louisiana Sugar Cane, Louisiana Wheat Ale, Naruto, Parish Brewing, sugar cane, Yugito | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.35/5

Canebrake by Parish Brewing is a 4.9% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Louisiana sugar cane.

Label:
This delicious beer was brewed and bottled in small batches with great care and passion for our craft, by Parish Brewing Co, in Broussard, Louisiana.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Brewed with Louisiana sugarcane! A new Louisiana tradition in the works. Crisp and easy to drink, this sparingly hopped American wheat focuses attention on the understated sweet remnants of sugarcane.

___

A beer brewed with sweet cane stalks? Yes, Please!! Growing up in Mexico I use to enjoy fresh sugar cane stalk. Now there is such a thing in beer. Wow, what won’t brewers do to make such awesome little beers like this. I gotta give special thanks to my friend Aaron at www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this brewsky from Louisiana. One that we do not here in California. Hopefully one day we will see it here. If you find it, let me know what you think, cheers!

Aromas:
Sugar cane stalk juice, agave syrup hints, peach, guava hints, honey comb, peppercorn, coriander spice, biscuit bread, stone fruit, tropical hints, citrus and mango tang.

Flavors:
Orange, lemon zest, peppercorn, farmhouse hay, guava, stone fruit peach, mango hints, sugar cane stalk juice, agave hints, prickly pear, passion fruit, dragon fruit hints, coriander spice, wheat bread, pear, apple, biscuit bread, caramel, vanilla hints, grassy notes and honey comb.

Aftertaste:
Citrus, biscuit bread, peppercorn, farmhouse hints, floral hop notes, sugarcane stalk juice and tropical fruits. No alcohol in the taste. Easy to drink, crisp, refreshing, medium body, light mouthfeel and a great summer beer.

Overall:
Very good wheat ale. This is the first Sugar cane beer I have ever had. As a young kid, I used to love the Mexican vendors growing up that would sell the sugar cane stalk. You would munch on the stalk to extract the sweet nectar and get rid of the grassy remains. This beer reminds me of that and it does had some flavors reminiscent of those days for me.

Anime Corner:
Yugito from Naruto was chosen to pair in this beer because not only was it the first time I try a beer from Parish brewing but the first time I bring Yugito into the beer world here on the site. She is the host of the Two Tailed Cat beast from the series. Her golden hair represents the threads of cane stalk while the green in some instances reminds me of the tropical fruits and sugar that are brought from this beer. The bead necklace she wears on her arm represents like that of religion which the name of the brewery, Parish, is what is represents. The demon cat represents the complexity of flavors that even such a beer at a low ABV can hold. So basically, it is like her unleashing that fury out,

Sources:
http://fidjera.deviantart.com/art/Comiss-Nii-Yugito-288008332
http://www.hcomicbook.com/imglink/gallery/ecb90476404ee97e93e88c7beba6ffbc9a59dcb1.jpg

Black Crack by Southern Star Brewing

August 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Imperial Stout, Black Crack, Bourbon Barrel Stout, Buried Hatchet, Southern Star Brewing, Stout | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.35/5

Black Crack by Southern Star Brewing is an 8.25% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Bourbon barrel aged Buried Hatchet Stout
___

Wonder why they call it Black Crack? Could it possibly be because this beer is so good that it is like a pitch black drug? Not sure, but thanks to my friend Aaron from www.beermetaldude.com, we can now bring this as a review to the site. Coming from Conroe Texas, their Buried Hatchet Stout is aged for a year and a half in Bourbon Barrels giving way to some sweet complex flavors. Can’t wait to try this, so let’s check this one out shall we? Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut, flan, dark fruit raisins, figs, vanilla, marshmallow, oak bourbon, almond joy chocolate, smokey notes, chocolate milkshake, pecan pie, molasses, toffee, brown sugar, crème brulee hints and mocha hints.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bourbon, oak, vanilla, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, molasses, crème brulee, mocha frappuccino, smokey notes, roasted coffee bitterness, earthy notes, dark fruit raisins and figs.

Aftertaste:
Caramel, vanilla, hazelnut, earthy notes, smokey hints and marshmallow linger for a bit. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink suprisingly with a light to moderate mouthfeel but pitch black body. This make is dangerous as you definitely want to keep drinking it or have a few.

Overall:
I’m a sucker for bourbon barrel aged beers, especially those that taste pretty close to chocolate. This one exceeds my expectations with the help of the barrel aging but also the complexity and the fact that it drinks super smooth. If I had several of these in one sitting, it would be lights out for sure. So in the sense of overwhelming character, this one does great as it will not detract the unready palate. Highly recommended but careful now.

Anime Corner:
Original Character by artist Yuyu was used in this pairing to pair with Black Crack because I wanted to show some of the colors of the label but also what this sweet, evil and dark little beer entails. As you can see, the beers is very delicious, so much that you really want it. The dark hands that come out from the character are like the smokey notes of the beer and the evil sweetness that it represent. Do not be fooled by her sweet stare. She also doesn’t have a long rifle for no reason. Like a good beer that is hard to spot, if you are somehow seduced by this one, just try not to finish the whole bottle or several. Awesomely great beer but very dangerous.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/view_post/363141?lang=en

Blood & Honey by Revolver brewing

August 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Black Lagoon, Blood & Honey, Blood Orange, Blood Oranges, Honey comb, Revolver Brewing, Revy, Texas | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.45/5

Blood & Honey by Revolver brewing is a 7% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Blood Orange peel, honey and spices.

Label:
An unfiltered deep-golden ale made with malted two-row barley and wheat. Finished with Blood Orange peel, Texas honey and a blend of spices.
___

Straight out of Texas, this dual gunner beer was a generous donation by my friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com. The name alone is enough to make me want to try it. Blood Oranges or beers with Blood Orange are a treat that doesn’t really come out often. While Blood Oranges themselves taste just like Oranges but look like bloody pulp, it is still intriguing as the mind tends to believe there is a possibility that it taste like something more. Like when giving a blind test people vanilla pudding with brown food coloring, they will say it taste like chocolate. The mind tends to add things. Anyway, aside from that, I am looking for to try this one and to see how it fares. Cheers!

Aromas:
Honey comb, caramel, toffee, grapefruit hints, citrus, biscuit bread, piloncillo sugar cone, maple hints, wheat, peach, mango, blood oranges, lemon zest, coriander spice, strawberry hints, banana yogurt and clove spice.

Flavors:
Honey comb, caramel, biscuit bread, bananas, clove spice, piloncillo, peach, mango hints, cinnamon, maple hints, grapefruit, blood oranges, lemon zest, coriander spice, herbal hop bitterness, wheat bread, strawberry hints and pumpkin hints.

Aftertaste:
Honey comb, peach, strawberry hints, lemon zest, blood orange peel, wheat bread and herbal hop bitterness. No alcohol in the taste. Crisp and refreshing. Medium drinkability, medium mouth feel with a hazy full body.

Overall:
This beer is very good. There is an underlying sweetness in the that is moderately complex which I really believe is attributed to the ingredients used in the beer. This is not the typical wheat ale and has a lot of interesting things going on here. While beer itself is not red, there is nothing left but the taste and aromas to decipher what it is truly like. I can definitively say I like this one and it is worth trying.

Anime Corner:
Revy from Black Lagoon was used in this pairing to go with the brewery’s dual wield label. The blood orange aspect of the beer pays tribute to the deadly but sweet aspect of who Revy. While cold hearted and ruthless as she is for killing, the honey comes into play to show that sweet side of her that is typically not a part of her. It more likely balances her character out in a way. The moon in the background picture also pairs with the name of the beer because Blood and Honey have been 2 different types of descriptions given to some of the moons colors depending on the year season. Revy’s orange aura also compliments the blood oranges as well.

Sources:
http://hdw.datawallpaper.com/anime/revy-two-hs-hd-wallpaper-333012.jpg
http://konachan.com/image/b8018a13b685954f4641036e1e4ff011/Konachan.com%20-%2053635%20ass%20black%20black_lagoon%20hiroe_rei%20revy%20vector.jpg

Black Forest by Harpoon Brewery

August 9, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Black Forest, Boston Beer, cherry juice, cocoa nibs, Dark Cherries, dark chocolate, Fate Night Stay, Fate Stay Night, Harpoon Brewery, Harpoon brewing, Harpoon Distributing Company, Imperial Porter, Saber, Saber Alter/Dark, sakura matou | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5

Black Forest by Harpoon Brewery of Boston Massachusetts is a 9.8% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with Cherry Juice and Cocoa Nibs.

Label:
Black Forest
When the drivers of Harpoon Distributing Company are finished delivering brewery-fresh beer throughout the neighborhoods of Boston, they spend time moonlighting with Harpoon’s brewers. In 2012, they developed a version of a cherry chocolate porter that was a favorite at our annual home-brew competition. It didn’t take long for the brewing staff to work up a 10-barrel test batch and we knew we had to make more.

A hearty malt base is complemented by sweet cherry juice and cocoa nibs added during fermentation in this decadent take on a traditional porter.

Notes of rich chocolate and a hint of cherry sweetness make this full bodied porter the perfect treat to share now or to cellar until next Valentine’s Day.
___

Thanks once again to Aaron Mendiola at beermetaldude.com for the hookup of this sweet beer. Yet another brewery we don’t see here in California. This one is from Boston Massachusetts and apparently ended up being really good and sweet as I read about it. This I had to see for myself so I was glad to get the opportunity to give it a shot. So here it goes, the Harpoon Black Forest, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark Chocolate, rich dark cherries, cherry cola, mocha coffee, cherry cordial, hazelnut, earthy hop notes, brown sugar, dark fruit raisins, caramel, Dr. Pepper hints, maple, mint, molasses, licorice, raspberry hints and flan hints.

Flavors:
Burst of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark cherries, cherry yogurt, mocha coffee, dark fruit raisins, earthy hops, flan, cinnamon, caramel, vanilla, cherry cola, maple, mint, chocolate chip cookies, molasses, licorice, brown sugar, maple, molasses, raspberry, nutmeg, pumpkin spice hints and hazelnut.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, dark cherry, vanilla, caramel, earthy hops, coffee and molasses. No alcohol in the taste, a moderate to sipping drinking characteristic, full body, syrupy mouthfeel yet smooth. Nice and deadly!!

Overall:
If you love sweet beers, especially chocolate and cherry ones, then this one is just an example of a beer that definitely exceeds my expectations in that department by a few notches. The Chocolate and Cherry are a complete win here with some additional complexity while it still reminds you that you are drinking a porter. A porter with no head retention and very delicious. I really wish we could get this one here in California, I would definitely drink this one all the time. Thanks again Aaron!

Anime Corner:
Saber Alter and Matou Sakura from Fatestay Night were used in this pairing because as the name goes, black forest, I wanted to show not only the pairing of the name but the flavors. As you can see from the colors in these pictures, they pretty much represent all the nice complexities that the beer has to offer and prominently the dark cherries and chocolate flavors. This beer is so damn good and the fact that these characters are evil, it represents the seductive qualities such that the beer is so smooth and yet strong at the same time.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/360781-1040×1477-fate+%28series%29-fateextra-saber-saber+alter-tyappygain-single.jpg
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/92024-1325×1800-fate+%28series%29-fatestay+night-saber-matou+sakura-saber+alter-stu+dts+%28pixiv%29.jpg

Devil Dancer by Founders brewing

August 9, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Devil Dancer, Founders Brewing, india pale ale, IPA, Panty & Stocking, PSG, Scanty, Scanty and Kneesocks, Tripel India Pale Ale, Triple IPA | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Devil Dancer by Founders brewing is a 12% ABV Triple India Pale Ale.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Founders most complex, most innovative, most feared and yet most revered ale produced. Massive in complexity the huge malt character balances the insane amount of alpha’s used to create this monster. More IBU’s than any brewery has documented, more than you would believe and dry-hopped for twenty-six days straight with a combination of 10 hop varieties. Dangerously drinkable and deliciously evil. We dare you to dance with the Devil. 112 IBUs.
___

There is no way we here at California can get Founders beers regularly as well as the central states in the U.S. They pop up very far few and between. Thanks to Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com, we bring you a doozey of an IPA. This one from Founder brewing is probably their arsenal at the plinys and headys of the world. At a really heavy, 12% ABV, this is probably the strongest IPAs I have had right next to the 18% 120 Minute IPA from Dogfish Head. Well, without further ado, here is the review, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark cherries, grapefruit, piney, herbal and floral hops, caramel, toffee, dark fruit hints, some tropics such as passion fruit, dragon fruit, papaya, peach, biscuit bread, rye bread, vanilla, lemon zest, blood oranges, dank hop oils and maple syrup.

Flavors:
Dark Cherries, dark fruit raisins, figs, rye bread, grapefruit, floral and earthy hops, toffee, caramel, vanilla, biscuit bread, honey, blood oranges, old mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, papaya, peach hints, lemons, maple syrup and hop oils.

Aftertaste:
Caramel, dark cherries, citrus, honeygrapefruit, piney and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste. Sipping drinkability but yet smooth and easy at the same time. Syrupy mouth feel, full body, crisp and refreshing.

Overall:
One of the strongest Triple IPAs I have ever tried for sure. This one is mainly on the malty and yet hoppy side showing a good amount of uncommon fruity complexities which make this one pretty unique. The potency of the beer makes it like you are drinking tropical hop and caramel oils. I really enjoyed this one and I do think this takes its place well up there with the plinys and Headys for sure. I definitely recommend this one for sure. Thanks Again Aaron.

Anime Corner:
Scanty from Panty & Stocking was used in this pairing because I wanted to pair with the colors and the devil dancer name. Scanty is a demon that fights with her sister Kneesocks against the angels Panty and Stocking. During their transformation sequence from formal attire, they pretty much strip like exotic dancers. Therefore, the name and the pairing stuck. Also, the fact that Scanty is obviously awesome.

Sources:
http://chitanime.3bb.ru/uploads/0000/0a/4a/33891-3-f.jpg

Mr Pineapple by SanTan Brewing

August 9, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Happoubi Jin, Mr Pineapple, pineapple, pineapple juice, Santan Brewing, wheat beer | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Mr Pineapple by SanTan Brewing is a 5% ABV is an American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Natural Pineapple Juice.

Label:
Mr Pineapple was conceived for SanTan Brewing Company’s annual Luau day. Fresh pineapple juice is added to a traditional Wheat beer during fermentation to add a refreshing tropical flavor this fruity ale! The pineapple is balanced with a firm malt character and a slightly spiced hint of clove. Mr. Pineapple is the perfect way way to beat the heat on a warm summer day!
___

A special thanks for the hook up to the lord of beermetaldude.com, Aaron Mendiola. This beer comes from Arizona and is brewed by SanTan. Being so close to California, I have yet to try an Arizona brew. This is my first and this awesome. I was able to get a second can to do a review later one but just the honor of bringing a SanTan beer to the reviews is awesome. This one is a pineapple wheat beer. I have tried a Watermelon wheat beer before which really was not that great unfortunately. You be the judge on that one though. I really hope this one does better but I will only be able to tell once we do the review. So let’s go and cheers!

Aromas:
Banana, clove spice, peppercorns, biscuit bread, citrus, pineapple hints, vanilla, caramel, floral notes, honey, honey dew melon, herbal spices and old mango.

Flavors:
Bananas, clove spice, Pineapple hints, tangerine, citrus, honey, passion fruit, old mango, honey dew melon, Orange, peppercorns, biscuit bread, ,mango, vanilla, caramel, floral notes, lemon peel and honeycomb.

Aftertaste:
Pineapple, banana, citrus, biscuit bread, clove spice and lemon peel linger. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink refreshing and crisp. Light to medium mouth feel, and clear body.

Overall:
This is very good. It is like the Belgian wit meets German heff but on the tropical fruitier side. I can easily see my self buy several of these for a nice summer day as it is pretty refreshing. The addition of the pineapple gives it some nice tropical character without taking too much from the Belgian wit goodness. In fact it does compliment it a bit. A very nice beer if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Original character by artist Happoubi Jin was chosen for this pairing to show case some of the label art work as well as the beer flavors. While the pineapple up in the corner is represents the pineapple flavor of the beer, the lady in the picture is representative of Mr./Miss Pineapple. Her colors are those that compliment the label well. The green of the stem and the blonde hair of the skin of pineapple. Her eyes give way to the Belgian aspect as in their use of special yeast gives nice fruity flavors and in some Belgians, the dark fruits.

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2010-02-25-249907.jpeg

Proprietor’s Vintage 2014 Double Double Barrel Ale by Firestone Walker

July 31, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Double Barrel, Double Barrel Ale, Double DBA, Double Double Barrel Ale, Final Fantasy VII, Firestone Walker, Imperial Special Bitter, ninja, Vincent Valentine, Yuffie, Yuffie Kasaragi | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5

Proprietor’s Vintage 2014 Double Double Barrel Ale by Firestone Walker is a 12% ABV World Class Imperial Special Bitter/English Barley Wine.

Label:
Since founding our brewery in 1996, we have specialized in the rare art of brewing beer in oak barrels. In the fall of 2006, we embarked on a program to barrel age a series of vintage strong ales that would later be used as components of a blended beer. That blend would become our first Anniversary Ale, “10”.

After the release of “10”, we released limited amounts of the component beers on draft only. Many of these beers gained a cult following that craft beer fans raved about and begged for us to put in bottle. Double DBA was one of these beers.

It has been said that the only constant is change and the same is true for barrel-aged beers. Cut from a similar recipe each year, Double DBA changes and shows a different face across each vintage; a result of time spent aging in the barrel.

We present the 2014 vintage of Double DBA, a barrel-aged Imperial Special Bitter. Lush toffee and caramel malt flavors combine with light coconut, vanilla graham cracker American oak barrel nuances.

Double DBA is a one-of-a-kind sipping beer built to last and will reward careful aging for years to come.

Ideal Aging Temperature 45° F
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The final release of this beer has come. No longer will Firestone Walker brew this. Once this is gone it is gone. So definitely stop by the nearest store or online shop and get a couple of these. I had this beer about 2 years ago and since then I have not had a chance to pick it up again to do a re-review. When I heard this was the last time FW was going to make it, I had to get it before it is gone for good and bring it forward for a review. Not sure why they would retire a stronger version of their original flagship beer but they must have their reasons. Maybe some new oddity will come but until then, if you can get this one, definitely get it. For now, here is what you can expect, cheers!

2012 Review (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/31/double-double-barrel-ale-by-fire-stone-walker/)
*Beer rating for 2012 was set before I implemented the new rating system.

Aromas:
Bananas and toasted coconut cream pie,marshmallows, dulce de leche caramel, flan, oak, bourbon, graham cracker smores, brown sugar, toffee, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, plum, honey, maple, oak, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, chocolate, clove spice, coffee cake, almond joy, apple cinnamon toast, and butterscotch.

Flavors:
Lots of toasted Coconut macaroons, bananas, chocolate, coconut, dulce de leche, coconut cream pie, pecan pie, bourbon, vanilla, honey, maple, rich oak, flan, toffee, dark fruits like raisins, plums, clove spice, coffee cake, brown sugar, almond joy, rye bread, apple cinnamon pie, butterscotch and hazelnut, graham crackers and marshmallow smores.

Aftertaste:
Vanilla, caramel, maple, oak, banana, marshmallow, coconut, brown sugar chocolate hints and butterscotch. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with some smoothness. Medium body with medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
A little more than just, perfect! This beer exceeds a good amount of expectations. This beer is freaking delicious. If you never believed the original Double Barrel Ale could be amplified to a higher atmosphere of flavor, then you will definitely be in for a surprise. The beer has so much . It is really sad to see this one go as this one is one I could easily enjoy just like the other awesome barrel-aged series from FW. Like I stated before, you should really get one or two before they are truly gone.

Anime Corner:
Yuffie Kisaragi and Vincent Valentine from Final Fantasy VII were used in this pairing from the original Double DBA to pair with several aspects of the beer. Yuffie’s costume pairs greatly with the colors of the label. The crimson color of the beer is Vincent’s department. The duo represent the Double aspect while the guns he carries is the double barrels. Yuffie provides the complex sweetness of the beer represented by her love for the colorful jewels called Materia. Vincent’s dark past brings and compliments the beer with the Alcohol content. Together as a team, make this beer a sweet, smooth and delicious success. This may the final time I see Double DBA but damn what a ride it was. Hope to see you again some day…

Sources:
http://www.wallpaperfly.com/thumbnails/detail/20120314/brunettes%20final%20fantasy%20yuffie%20kisaragi%20vincent%201280×1024%20wallpaper_www.wallmay.com_74.jpg
http://the-koko-empire.deviantart.com/art/Stand-by-You-191556373
http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/70/dd/7d/70dd7dd1a9bf58dac898deab7c9e4dd5.jpg

Bière De Mars by Jolly Pumpkin

July 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Biere de Garde, Biere De Guarde, Biere de Mars, french oak barrels, French Stock ale, grand reserve, Hatsune Miku, jolly pumpkin, Miku, Oak aged, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Bière De Mars by Jolly Pumpkin is a 7% ABV French Style Stock Ale (Bière de Garde) aged in oak Barrels.

Label:
Brewed with two yeasts, mellowed in large oak casks, and refermented in the bottle, our Biere de Garde is a sustaining beer that is brewed to comfort in the gusty tides of March and welcome in a wealth of warmer weather.
“Beware the ides of March” Some guy to some other guy, a long time ago.
Please enjoy our beers in good health, Cheers & Mahalo plenty!
___

A grand return to an old Jolly Pumpkin beer I haven’t tried since 2011, or at least the grand reserve version. I posted the old review on this site in October 2012 thought when I finally started doing my reviews publicly. At the time, I was involved in a car accident which thankfully I came out alive. At the time, I had saved the reserve version of the beer to try it and I really wanted to give it a shot since I figured, a great life is worth living it for what you love to do. In the essence of that beer, I had to bring the original to the stage. While my flavor palate has matured, the original beer vs. the Grand Reserve may vary. So in essence, you be the judge of how you want your beer to be. Cheers!

2011 Grand Reserve Review (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/biere-de-mars-grand-reserve-by-jolly-pumpkin/)

Aromas:
Stone fruits like peach, mango, apricots, dark cherries, strawberry, plums, pears, green apples, musty wild yeast, wine grapes, sour notes, bananas, caramel, butterscotch,rye bread, hints of hazelnut, dark fruit raisins, fig hints, oak, vanilla, brown sugar, floral notes, farm house hay, tobacco and leather.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak , dark cherry yogurt, rich strawberries, stone fruits like apricots, mango, plums, peaches and cream, pear, hazelnut hints, rye bread, coriander spice, citrus, lemon peel, apple cider, tart grapefruit, butterscotch, bananas, clove spice hints, coriander spice hints, musty wild yeast, peppercorns, tobacco, leather, wine grapes, floral notes, farmhouse hay, chocolate hints, brown sugar, white grapes, dark fruit raisins and figs.

Aftertaste:
Caramel, peaches, sweet bread, dark cherry yogurt hints, rye bread, oak, vanilla, lemon peel, citrus and apple cider. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer, fully body and full mouthfeel.

Overall:
A great example of a Biere de Garde done right. This is very delicious. Sour notes mainly turn into tart but sweet notes while maintaining a backlog of sourness to remind you. This why when you are a brewery that only concentrates at the Sour ales you are good at, you can truly make magic. There aren;t a lot of sour breweries or breweries in general that make beer this good. Even I have a rough time with some of the Bruery sours admittedly sometimes. Needless to say, this beer brings me back to the days I would always get Jolly Pumpkin beers and remind me of where my sour tasting roots came from. I definitely recommend this one without a doubt. Even some people that do not like sours may tolerate or even fully enjoy this one for sure.

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Hatsune Miku in her art design by subaru01rins was used in this pairing because I wanted to pair something similar to the original artwork I used for the grand reserve long ago. When I stumbled upon the T-Shirt at Anime Expo which was made by WeLoveFine (http://www.welovefine.com/6946-i-am-your-melody.html#.U9hlYfldVuN) I had to buy it. After looking at the artwork, it was very bad ass and made me realize why I chose the tron evil looking being with the red eyes back then. It had to do with the fact that in the label, the wind blowing the ship represented the the blowing the light of hope. While Miku looks evil here, either way, by her saying ‘I AM YOUR MELODY’ it plays at the whole aspect of evil blowing in the wind. Not to say that she is evil, but more like say that while you may have a good side, you also have a bad side that tries to balance who you are. Biere de Mars (Especially because of my birthday) represents a lot and in the sense of importance. It goes to show that even in the most sourest of states, the sweetness will be there to balance things out. Just like the beer. Oh yeah and also, the fruits like the sweet strawberries, are represented by the crimson eyes of Miku. Green is the color of the sour apples.

Sources:
http://subaru01rins.deviantart.com/art/I-AM-YOUR-MELODY-wallpaper-413872921

Boont Barl by Anderson Valley Brewing

July 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Anderson Valley Brewing, Boont Barl, Bourbon Barrel Amber Ale, Hera, Puzzles and Dragons, Red Ale, Whiskey Barrel Aged Amber, wild turkey bourbon, Wild Turkey bourbon barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.35/5

Boont Barl by Anderson Valley Brewing is a 6.0% ABV American Amber/Red Ale aged 6 months in Wild Turkey, Bourbon Barrels.

Commercial Description:
What began with our flagship Boont Amber Ale and a passion for experimentation has become a unique addition to our Anderson Valley Wild Turkey Barl Series. The six month aging process in third-use Wild Turkey Bourbon barrels imparts flavors of coconut and vanilla and subtle bourbon aromas that are enhanced by a noticeable oak character in the finish. A great accompaniment to fine meals or to be enjoyed on its own, Boont Barl is a truly sessionable barrel-aged beer with finesse. MALTS: Pale Two-Row, Crystal (40L & 80L) HOPS: Columbus, Bravo, Northern Brewer, Mt. Hood.
___

I tried Anderson Valley’s Bourbon Barrel Stout so when I saw this one on the self at Ramirez Liquor, I had to get it. The Bourbon Barrel Stout was very good, but I don’t remember is as being extra ordinary. Even at 6% ABV, this one might still be just as good. You don’t always see session Barrel-aged goodies and some actually end up being more surprising than others. Some beers don’t need barrel aging but it still makes for one interesting beers. So let us see what this one is all about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, hints of vanilla, oak and bourbon, biscuit bread, dark fruit raisins, rye bread, hints of chocolate spread, brown sugar, grape jelly, some wine grape hints and whiskey.

Flavors:
Bourbon hints, vanilla, caramel, oak, dark fruit hints like raisins and plums, rye bread, biscuit bread, coriander hints, earthy hop notes, wine grape hints, brown sugar, grape jelly, butterscotch hints, hints of nutella chocolate spread and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with residual caramel malt sweetness, oak, hints of whiskey, rye bread, raisins and earthy hop notes. No alcohol presence despite the nice oak whiskey notes. An easy to drink beer with a certain level of smoothness. Medium body with medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
A very good beer. Think of a Bourbon Barrel Aged Amber Light. You get a good amount of flavors like you would a nice bourbon barrel but nothing overwhelming. I think this type of beer is a good way to introduce barrel-aged beers to craft beer beginners. A gateway to the Barrel aged side of beers. In that aspect, I would recommend it. Especially if you just wanna drink a barrel-aged beer without calling it a night. Not too insane but still have some very good flavors to it.

Anime Corner:
Hera from Puzzles and Dragons was used in this pairing to pair with the label colors and to some extent the Anderson Valley Bear with the Antlers. The red hair represents that this is an amber ale while the blue represents some of the other flavors like dark fruit hints. Since I chose this character to represent this beer, the light aspect of the beer represents her petite figure. Show while the beer is light ABV, she still has a good amount of flavors.

Sources:
http://lohas.nicoseiga.jp/thumb/3225114i
https://fireden.net/4chan/images.4chan.org//vg/src/1399345901724.jpg

Black Butte XXVI (26th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery

July 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 26th Anniversary, 26th Anniversary Reserve, aged in Bourbon Barrels, Black Butte, black butte porter, Black Butte XXVI, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, cocoa nibs, cranberries, Deschutes Brewery, Legend of Zelda, Midna, Pomegranate Molasses, Pomegranates, tart cranberries, Theo's cocoa nibs, Twili Midna, Twilight Princess | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Black Butte XXVI (26th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery is 10.8% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with pomegranate molasses with 50% aged in bourbon barrels blended with ale with cocoa nibs and cranberry added.

Label:
Our 26th anniversary imperial porter was aged in bourbon barrels and dry spiced with theo chocolate’s cocoa nibs, revealing hints of vanilla and chocolate. Pomegranate molasses and Oregon cranberries complement the robust flavor with a hint of fruits and just enough tart to make you smile.
___

Each year they release this beer, they always use different ingredients. I have been fortunate enough to be able to try the 24th and 25th. Today I bring you their 26th. Since I loved the previous years versions, I can only imagine this years version will be insane. I picked this one up at Ramirez Liquors and Kegs in Boyle Heights near downtown Los Angeles. I wish I could of picked up 2 but due to the 1 bottle limit I was unfortunate. I can only hope they have more in stock or if I am lucky to get it again. These types of beers are definitely the ones you want to try regardless of your previous conviction. Each one amazing and every year getting better. So on to the review and cheers!!

25th Anniversary Review (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/07/22/black-butte-xxv-25th-anniversary-reserve-by-deschutes-brewery/)

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, oak, bourbon hints, rich pomegranate, raspberries, slight tart cranberries, dark fruit raisins, cherries, smoke hints, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate fudge cake, hazelnut, almond joy, coconut, banana, clove spice, brown sugar, pecan pie, chocolate abuelita, tobacco, molasses, and strawberry preserves on rye bread.

Flavors:
Chocolate covered tart pomegranates, raspberries, cranberries, smokey notes, marshmallows, coconut hints, dark cherries, dark fruit raisins, figs, bananas, clove spice, marshmallow smores, vanilla, oak, bourbon, pecan pie, flan, almond joy, earthy bitterness, chocolate abuelita, strawberry preservers on rye bread, hazelnut nectar, walnuts, pecans, maple bar, molasses, brown sugar, anise hints, chocolate fudge cake, dragon fruit nectar, bubble gum hints and licorice hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, earthy notes, tart cranberries, pomegranate, strawberry, banana hints, caramel, vanilla, oak, smokey notes, tobacco, walnuts and pecans. No alcohol in the taste, silky and smooth mouthfeel even easy to drink surprisingly. Dark as the night appearance. Careful with this one as its smoothness will make you want to drink the whole bottle in one sitting.

Overall:
Even more exceptional than the last. Seems like every year they go all out with their release and each one is well up there in terms of flavors and deliciousness. By all means, this very exceptional and I definitely will be looking for this one again assuming I can find it again. I highly recommend this one because a dessert beer in a bottle, the rich flavors will linger and linger for quite a awhile on that palate making each sip just extraordinary delicious!!

Anime Corner:
Midna (Both Forms) from The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princes was chosen once again this year for the Black Butte release. 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 (Twili Midna on the right) and the cocoa nibs and cranberry (Midna on the left). They are both the same person and both are kick ass. The pomegranate and cranberry colors can be see by the crimson in their beautiful eyes, staring seductively at your soul (sweet and tart) taking you to a land of pleasure…Or so this beer makes me feel in that sense. Don’t be fooled though, take your time with this one, she can be misleading and evil but only if you let her be.

Sources:
http://zeronis.deviantart.com/art/MIDNA-452543934

NightTime by Lagunitas

July 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Black India, black ipa, DayTime, Fear of The Dark, Fear The Dark, IPA, Lagunitas, Lagunitas Brewing, NightTime, tropical IPA | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.05/5

NightTime by Lagunitas is an 8.2% ABV Black India Pale Ale.

Label:
Fear The Dark

There are two kinds. There is the DayTime kind, which is bright and welcoming and then there is the NightTime kind, which should never be confused with the DayTime. NightTime is dark and deep and may take you to unexpected places, places that the DayTime cannot. But then, the NightTime is not suited for ordinary life and ordinary tasks. In fact, NightTime may be the answer for that sort of thing, meaning that those sorts of things may never get done. Things take time in the NightTime, things slow down and you can pause (you have to, actually) and investigate carefully to find that level of objective detachment that is only possible under the spell of the NightTime. Seek the Day, but fear not the Night.
___

Got this one at craftshack.com at a very low price. I have heard many people talking about how great his beer was and how it was unlike usual Black IPAs because it was more like a regular IPA than most. I have had similar beers that changed perceptions in the past, mainly Black Racer from Bear Republic. So I figured I give this one a go and see what was up with the commotion. This one should be readily available where ever they sell Lagunitas beers. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Lots of Tropical fruits, guava, papaya, prickly pear, dragon fruit, peach, pineapple, mango, chocolate, piney grassy, rich grapefruit and earthy hops, anise, molasses hints, citrus, dank garlic and onion notes, brown sugar, citrus, lemon peel, hints of vanilla, tangerine, gummy bears and passion fruit.

Flavors:
Very much tropical fruits for a Black IPA. Mango,papaya, pineapple, passion fruit, guava, peaches, cherries, strawberries, dragon fruit, dark chocolate, caramel, biscuit bread, brown sugar, citrus, hints of anise, molasses hints, hints of vanilla, cola notes, floral notes, hints of smoke, dank garlic and onion notes, tangerine, gummy bears and lemon peel.

Aftertaste:
Earthy hops, chocolate, smokey hints, rich tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, and guava hints .No alcohol in the taste, black as night appearance, easy to moderate drinkability, crisp and refreshing despite the appearance with a full mouth feel.

Overall:
This beer does not drink like Black IPA, it drinks like a very delicious double IPA with Black appearances. This beer is freaking amazing. Lagunitas really knows their stuff in the IPA department. Tropical beers are my thing and like Black Racer, this one was just like that one but this one had a lot of tropics to it despite being a dark IPA. If you were to smother a bit of chocolate sweetness unto a plentiful tropical punch with ofcourse the IPA grassy bitterness, you would be close to what this beer has to offer. NightTime is freaking insane. Appearances can be deceiving but in this case they are doing it in a great way.

Anime Corner:
Original Character by dj.adonis was used in this pairing for several reasons. I paired this beer with the character because I wanted to show the aspect of NightTime and the colors of the label partially. As you can see, many sleep in the night (closed eyes), but this character with the night time background and the crimson bloody moon represent that fruit punch tropical aspect you get this this beer. Her weapons shown only make that more dangerous. As I have said before, about looks being deceiving, you should definitely “Fear The Dark” as stated in this bottle because you will be mesmerized by her beauty only to be deceived but experience bliss before your downfall…

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2014-07-13-660632.jpeg

Old Chub Nitro by Oskar Blues brewery

July 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Caramel, dark fruit, Milk, Old Chub, Old Chub Nitro, Oskar Blues, Scotch Ale, Wee Heavy | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.6/5

Old Chub Nitro by Oskar Blues brewery is an 8.0% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale on Nitro.
Label:

Rate Girth
A Virtual Planetoid

Description:

Old Chub is a Scottish style ale brewed with copious amounts of crystal and chocolate malts, and a dash of beechwood-smoked malts. While Dale’s Pale Ale (“the best-tasting canned beer I’ve ever had,” according to many brewers and beer experts) is a showcase of both hops and pale malts, Old Chub is a celebration of malts. The cola-colored beer features a dense, tawny head, a creamy mouthful and flavors of caramel, chocolate and lightly roasted malt. Complex and rich, it finishes with a whisper of smokiness that calls to mind a fine single malt scotch. Old Chub weighs in at 8 % alcohol by volume.

___

Decided to get this one as an extra when placing an order on craftshack.com. I have loved this style many times in the past even if it is the a favorite style but one I don’t always get to try. When I saw this one was on nitro, I said with that Evil Grumpy Cat stare, YES! >:S. I had no idea what to expect but at the same time I felt like this one was gonna be good since many of the other Oskar Blues beers I have tried have not disappointed. So I bring forth to you, the Old Chub on NITRO!!

Aromas:

Dark fruit and chocolate milkshake, vanilla, raisins, caramel, cherries, flan crème brulee, bananas, pecan pie, coconut hints, rye bread, brown sugar, coffee, toffee, marshmallow hints, molasses, raisin bread pudding and smoked peat.

Flavors:

Coffee, smoked peat, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, milk shake, yoohoo, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dulce de leche caramel, flan, cherries, bananas, pecan pie, brown sugar, toffee, marshmallow hints, hints of coconut, molasses, raisin bread pudding, almond joy hints, butterscotch, caramel spread on rye bread, hazelnut nectar and macadamia nuts.

Aftertaste:

Chocolate, caramel, vanilla, pecans, hazelnut, raisins, trail mix, smoked peat and earthy bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, silky mouth feel, smooth drinkability, pitch black body.

Overall:

I have said it over and over again. There has yet to be a Scottish Ale that has ever disappointed. From the makers of the Ten Fidy, this is the best damn can of beer next to that one that I have ever had. HOLY SHIT!! This really blew my mind as to how good this was. I am sure the regular may have been alittle bit less in rating but just step it up with the nitro and you have a very compelling Wee Heavy that can really take on the rest I have had before. There is a lot of complex things going on in this beer and that I can only moderately explain. You really have to try this one for yourself. Highly Recommended.

Anime Corner:

Original Archer character by Undine at deviantart.com was used in this pairing because I wanted to fit not only the colors of the label but the Irish aspect. The red haired archer seem very perfect which reminds me of the girl from the Hunger Games. Also, the fact that I once your a ginger/red head in another Wee Heavy pairing which was the Sam Adams one and that one came out awesome. (Hakufu SonSaku) Anyways, the arrow of the archer flies forth piercing the air toward her target as smooth as the way the beer flows down as you drink it. This is why I chose this to pair so awesomely. Cheers!

Sources:

http://sneznybars.deviantart.com/art/Archer-by-UndineCG-167377911

DUDE by Oceanside Ale Works

July 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged DIPA, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, DUDE, Dude IPA, Hope, IPA, Oceanside Ale Works, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, The Big LAbowski, Yoko Littner, Yoko Ritona | 2 Comments

Rating: 3.75/5

DUDE by Oceanside Ale Works is a 9.4% ABV Double India Pale Ale.

Label:
Dude – a slang expression of emphasis, amazement, and wave. Through the intense aromas , strong and complex hop flavor , this double IPA will unconsciously make you bellow out a thunderous “dude”. Enjoy!
___

Got this one at the local shop down the street where I live. I have not seen this brewery or this beer so I am definitely thinking this is new stuff. I am always up for trying new beers so I figured let’s give it a chance. Besides, the dude on the label almost looks like the big labowski, the dude!

Aromas:
Very herbal, grassy, piney, floral and grapefruit hops notes, citrus, vanilla hints, biscuit bread, very bitter grains, caramel, tangerine hints and gummy bear hints.

Flavors:
More on the herbal and dank side of an IPA. Citrus, grapefruit, grassy, piney, herbal and floral hops, dark onion and garlicky notes, caramel biscuit bread, vanilla hints, bitter grains, tangerine, gummy bear hints and tiny hints peach.

Aftertaste:
Herbal, grassy and grapefruit hops linger with a good amount of dark piney and garlic notes. No alcohol in the taste and has a moderate drinkability with close to medium mouth feel and appearance. It is quite crisp and refreshing though.

Overall:
A good beer overall. Kick ass label for sure but if you like herbal and bitter IPAs then this one is good. Not a lot of complexity but just enough to keep stuff interesting. Not the supreme best double IPA I have had, but in terms of double IPAs I would at least give this one a try. You may actually like this one. This one is definitely for the super hop heads.

Anime Corner:
Yoko Littner from Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan was used in this pairing mainly to pair with the beer label. I wanted to get something that would go with the whole sunglasses and the colors of the dude looking bad ass! Yoko definitely looks like a bad ass in these pictures.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/657475
http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/075/d/5/yoko_littner_hd_wallpaper_1440x900_by_labotaze-d5y86qe.jpg

Angry Orchard The Muse by Boston Beer Company/Samuel Adams

July 25, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Angry Orchard, Apple Cider, Cider, Cider House Collection, french oak barrels, Gumi, Natural Hard Apple Cider, Sam Adams, Samuel adams, The Muse, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.12/5

Angry Orchard The Muse by Boston Beer Company/Samuel Adams is a 7.7% ABV Apple Cider aged in French Oak Barrels.

Label:
THE LEGEND OF
THE MUSE
The Muse is the newest addition to our Cider House Collection. Inspired by the festive nature of slightly sweet Demi-Sec champagnes and sparkling wines, the Muse is bubbly and effervescent. It is made from traditional culinary and bittersweet apples and aged on French oak. The Muse is sweet up front with a juicy apple aroma and bright acidity, and slightly drying on the finish with a lingering sweet apple note. The French oak adds a subtle wood impression, imparting notes of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and hints of vanilla.
___

Many have known the Angry Orchard series to be pretty unique in terms of good hard ciders. I have not done any reviews from them but I have done dozens of great Samuel Adams beers. Today I bring forth a Cider that really caught my attention and I really wanted to bring it forward for a nice review. I got this one at Bevmo! In the city of Walnut California while visiting a friend of mine. There are 2 other variants aside form this one (Scarecrow and Iceman) but I may do those in the future. For now, let us dig deep at craft cider and see what this one is all about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Apple cider, chardonay, champagne, oak, vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, flan hints, clove spice, plums, white raisins, allspice, nutmeg, wine grape hints and funky brett hints.

Flavors:
Red apples, sour apples, peach, wine grapes, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel, biscuit bread, nutmeg, cherries, herbal spice, white raisins, plums, chardonay, champagne, honey, sourdough bread hints, hazelnut hints, baked apple pie with pecans.

Aftertaste:
Sweet apples, oak , wine grapes, vanilla and cinnamon linger momentarily. No alcohol in the taste, light body, very easy to drink despite the fact that it gets moderate at times and should be sipped. Very crisp and refreshing as well.

Overall:
This is a great cider for sure and it does exceed some expectations to the level of good ciders. You can tell this is not the usual cider as some of the complexity not only makes it go toward that natural state of natural apples but give a push into very nice flavor spectrum. There is some level of tart but it is more sweet than tart. I would highly recommend it as it is very good, but the price may kind of push you away ($14/750ml). Don’t worry though, if you do decide to get it enjoy and you will find some really nice things.

Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Gumi was used in this pairing not only to pair with the colors of apples and the label but the very definition of a Muse. Like the daughters of Zeus, they became an inspiration and represent the artistic traits and the sciences. Vocaloid Gumi is a Musician type of bot like Hatsune Miku so in essence, she is the Muse, Art form and science! As you can also see, the aspect of the beer calling it Effervescent & Bubbly, surely is depicted in the second picture as well.

Sources:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SUKWXDgE90k/UyUvXqSH8DI/AAAAAAAAFII/-EiraoXK4dA/s1600/VNLIVES.NET-Headphone_vocaloid_Headphone_girl_megpoid_gumi_anime_girls_1800x1024_Size_Wallpaper_2560x1600-1127.jpg
http://blogs.c.yimg.jp/res/blog-38-d6/kkky0502/folder/485437/25/11483425/img_0?1399720740

(Double Review) Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout (1 year aged) & Stone W00stout 2.0 collaboration by Drew Curtis, Aisha Tyler and Wil Wheaton

July 23, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged abuelita chocolate, Aisha Tyler, arrogant bastard, Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, beer collaboration, beer geeks, Beer Hybrid, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Stout, bourbon barrels, caramel pecan pie, chocolate pecan pie, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, Collaboration beers, dark chocolate, Drew Curtis, Evangelion, Fark.com, flan, Geek Beer, Greg Koch, Hop Heads, Imperial Stout, Mari, Mari Illustrious Makinami, mocha coffee, Neon Genesis Evangelion, pecan pie, quadruple, Rei, Rei Ayanami, rye bread, rye toast, sci fi, star trek the next generation, Stone, Stone Beers, Stone Brewing, stone brewing co, Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout, Stone Ground Chocolate, Toasted Coconut, toasted pecans, toasted rye bread, w00tstout 2.0, wheat, Wil Wheaton | Leave a comment

It has been a while since I have done a double review. Most of my double reviews involve one regular beer and one spirit aged beer. This time around I wanted to do something special for the w00tstout anniversary and the tribute of the w00tstock/HopCon which is today at Stone Brewing. Today I review a 1 year aged version of the w00tstout and the newest release, w00tstout 2.0 which the difference is that it has stone crushed chocolate. You can get this in many beer stores that sell specialty craft beers and specially Stone Beers. The price is a bit higher than the previous years but I believe the ingredients and the the way it differs from last years could actually be different. So I will find out today which one will be the better deal. A 1 year version of w00tstout or the latest release with added ingredients and stronger Alcohol by Volume. Let us go and check it out. Cheers!!!

Original Review:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/07/21/stone-farking-wheaton-w00tstout-collaboration/

Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout Review
Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout (1 year aged) collaboration is a 13% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with rye, pecans, wheat, hops, awesome (beer + sci-fi)*geek ideologies with a 1/4 of it aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Wil Wheaton first called us in 2004 ask if it’d be OK for him to put the Arrogant Bastard logo on his blog’s website (back when people still asked permission to do such things), and I just so happened to answer the phone (back when I still answered the main line sometimes). Since he was so damn enthusiastic about our beers, I said ‘Sure, no problem,’ all the while thinking ‘Hmmm…this guy’s name sounds familiar.’

Months later, in a serendipitous turn of fate, I reached out to our 10,000th email newsletter subscriber…drumroll…Wil Wheaton. Since his gigs in the iconic Stand By Me and Star Trek: The Next Generation, Wil has become quite the renaissance man, adding author, w00tstock innovator, and homebrewer to his resume. His enthusiasm for the fermentable arts and our beer was such that after many occasions of sharing grog over the years, we decided it was time to brew in collaboration.

It was a no-brainer for us to choose Drew Curtis—who many know as the twisted mind behind Fark.com—as our third cohort. Drew was an old friend of Wil’s that I had serendipitously met (when he saw me and told me, ‘Dude, I love your beer) and enjoyed many beers with at the famous TED conference three years in a row. The beer you hold before you is an imperial stout made with wheat (Wil pretty much insisted), and we also paid tribute to Drew’s Kentucky roots by adding rye and pecans to the mix and partially aging the beer in bourbon barrels. The result? Nothing short of serendipitous.”

Greg Koch @stonegreg CEO & Co-founder, Stone Brewing Co. & Beer Seek

“Being a geek isn’t about what you love; it’s about how you love it. I’m a sci-fi geek, a disruptive technology geek, and a tabletop game geek. I’ve been lucky to do lots of work in those fields, but this is the first time I got to be a professional beer geek, and it was awesome.”

Wil Wheaton | @wilw Actor, Homebrewer & Professional Seek

“Beer tastes like my website…all over the map, but I’ve never met a beer I didn’t like.”

Drew Curtis | @drewcurtis Founder, Fark.com & News Geek
_____

Aromas:
Very rich Dark fruit prunes, raisins, plums, figs, dates, sangria, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, flan, macaroons, toasted coconut, mocha coffee, vanilla, oak, bourbon, banana notes, hazelnut, rye bread, butterscotch, toffee, licorice, brown sugar, molasses, pear, dark cherry and port wine.

Flavors:
Very Rich dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dates, mocha coffee, Kahlua, dark and milk chocolate, molasses, licorice, toffee, dulce de leche coffee, port wine, rye pie crust, bourbon, butterscotch, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, bananas, clove spice, fig pudding, raisin bread pudding, coriander spice, earthy notes, hints of mint, wheat toast, old mango, pears and oatmeal cookies.

Aftertaste:
Dark raisins, old cherries, plums, prunes, hints of bourbon, port wine, oak, caramel and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, the booze is far more hidden. Syrup mouthfeel with a sipping drinkablity and pitch black appearance with not much head retention.

Overall:
The flavors have gotten better and develop a more dark fruit character than the previous w00tstout. The beer exceeds my expectations a little more than last years. The stronger Quad like flavors take over more of the Imperial Stout flavors. The only way to really find this one now is to trade for it.

Anime Corner:
Mari Illustrious, Rei Ayanami and Asuka Sohryu Langley/Shikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion made a return in this version of the W00tstout from last year because I wanted to represent the 3 collaborators Wil Wheaton, Drew Curtis and Greg Koch in this fine piece. While the beer is based on sci-fi, a great sci-fi anime and its characters was the perfect choice in my mind to pair with one of the geekiest beers ever seeing as Neon Genesis is a world renowned anime. So cheers to all sci-fi and anime fans alike and celebrate the communities…W00t!!

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2013-07-15-592967.jpeg

W00tstout 2.0 Review
Stone W00stout 2.0 collaboration by Drew Curtis, Aisha Tyler and Wil Wheaton brewed at Stone brewing is a 13.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with flaked rye, wheat, pecans, hops, Stone-Ground Chocolate, awesome (beer + sci-fi)*geek ideologies with a 1/4 of it aged in Kentuck bourbon barrels.

Label:
In 2013, our CEO and Co-founder, Greg Koch, invited two respected fans of craft beer, brewing and all things Stone to develop an intense, inventive beer capable of not only delivering immense ﬂavor, but also serving as a ﬁtting, singular celebration of über-level enthusiasm. Self-proclaimed geeks in a number of arenas, the duo of thespian and renaissance man Wil Wheaton and Fark.com online news guru Drew Curtis proved up to the challenge, calling on their personal backgrounds to devise an imperial stout brewed with ﬂaked rye, wheat and pecans that was partially aged in Kentucky Bourbon barrels. Shortly after being released, this creation—dubbed “w00tstout” in honor of w00tstock, Wil’s annual tribute festival to cross-genre geekdom—became an instant cult classic.

Despite the fact that Greg spent the ﬁrst half of 2014 on an international walkabout-style sabbatical, Wil and Drew were invited back to Stone to put a new spin on this threesome-borne beauty. All they needed was a third conspirator, and for that, they called on friend and fellow geek, Aisha Tyler. An actress, talk show host, comedian and author with a ﬂair for individuality, she brought an entire new dimension to the brew day, just as the stone-ground chocolate the trio added to the original w00tstout recipe added delicious depth to the beer.

A personalized stamp was put on this year’s edition of w00tstout by comic artist Dave Gibbons. The co-creator of the Watchmen series worked up the fine art for this bottle in exchange for a donation to The Hero Initiative (www.heroinitiative.org), a charity organization providing retirement funds for golden-age comic book artists.

He thought his super power to point out the obvious was the most useless “power” ever, until he realized many people don;t see that which is plain as day.
Drew Curtis is…Captain Obvious!

Limbs unwieldy and lank are her lithe tools of destruction. Years of Bradbury (and corrective lenses) gave her laser vision. Where once she stumbled into peril, now she springs toward it, headlong.
Aisha Tyler is…Lady Temerarious!

Flashes of his destiny occurred in his youth, but it wasn’t until he uploaded his consciousness to the digital realm, that his powers were revealed. Now, he brings hops and hope to a thirsty world.
Wil Wheaton is…The Mercene-ary!
___

Aromas:
Rich Bananas, dark fruit raisins, figs plums, dates, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Kahlua, pecan pie, mocha coffee, molasses, licorice, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, port wine hints, rye bread, vanilla, oak, bourbon, butterscotch, hazelnut nectar, clove spice, earthy hop notes, mint, wheat toast, raisin bread pudding, banana split sundae, flan and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich bananas, pecan pie, coconut, dark, bakers, milk, Abuelita and Belgian Chocolates, dark fruits like prunes, raisins, figs, almond joy chocolate, raisin bread pudding, chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal, hot fudge sundae, mocha coffee, licorice, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, licorice, port wine hints, rye pie crust, bourbon, oak, hazelnut nectar, butterscotch, clove spice, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, whipped cream, crème brulee, flan, brown sugar, wheat toast with nutella, mint and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Bananas, dark cherries, milk and dark chocolates, pecan pie, whipped cream, bourbon, oak, dark fruits, caramel, earthy hops and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer, syrupy mouthfeel and pitch black appearance with hardly any head retention.

Overall:
WOW! The addition of the chocolate somehow took the beer to the next level. Even at its freshest point here, its taste extremely amazing. It is almost like a Banana split beer. Somehow, the fusion of Imperial Stout and Quad seems very close to the Stickie Monkee from Firestone Walker. The balance of this beer is also pretty ridiculous. Less boozy tasting than the first w00t and not as dark fruit forward as the 1 year aged one I also reviewed today. Simply ridiculous and delicious making this one extremely exceptional. This beer is world class already. I Highly Highly Recommended!! Get several bottles and I will see you next year after I age one of these for a year. W00t!

Anime Corner:
Mari Illustrious, Rei Ayanami and Asuka Sohryu Langley/Shikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion were used in this years pairing of W00tstout. Just like last year, I wanted to represent the 3 collaborators Wil Wheaton, Drew Curtis and and this time the addition of Aisha Tyler. This time wanted to have Aisha take Greg’s place. As you can see from last year’s pairing, the colors are different but also, you can tell some of them have traded places with the anime characters. Along with scifi, Evangelion brings giant robot humanoids. This addition is synonymous with bringing the flavor balance that may have not been in the last beer. As you can see in one of the art pairings, one robot per character so everything is equal and just as bad ass as the last beer but still taking it to another level. Great Job and Cheers to all Sci-Fi, Anime and Beer fans out there!

Sources:
https://yande.re/sample/e87d0f51b9862ca10b223f546054ab9d/yande.re%20232423%20sample.jpg
http://33.media.tumblr.com/68b377c323245b4bfb0657c24de29291/tumblr_mydkomFyV81soko9to1_1280.jpg
Rating: 5.95/5 (Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout)
Rating: 6/5 (W00tstout 2.0)

2013 Sour In The Rye Kumquat by the Bruery

July 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged american oak barrels, American Wild Ale, kumquats, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, sour in the rye, sour in the rye kumquat | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

2013 Sour In The Rye Kumquat by the Bruery is a 7.6% ABV Sour Rye Ale With Kumquats Added Aged in Oak Barrels.

Label:
QUAT’S NEW?
Deliciously sour, bursting with citrus peel and hints of oak from the barrel it was aged within.

Sour in the Rye with Kumquat is best enjoyed fresh for a full citrus character.
___

I had this one fresh long ago at the Bruery and have not had it since. It was definitely sour, tart and citrusy back then. One year later, and let us see where this one has taken the flavors too. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots if oranges, citrus, rye bread, oak, caramel, wine grapes, toffee, stone and tropical fruit like peaches, apricot, mango, papaya, caramel, brown sugar, funky notes and lemons.

Flavors:
Lots of oak, caramel, citrus oranges, kumquats, lychee, sour wine grapes, rye bread, tangerine preserves, sour dough bread, lemon peels, prickly pear, sour apple, dark cherries and leather.

Aftertaste:
Finish with big tart orange and rye bread notes, sourdough bread, caramel hints, oak and kumquats. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer despite the ABV, medium body with a full mouthfeel.

Overall:
Well, for starters, the sour notes have definitely fallen a bit but the tart levels definitely remain. It is a very good beer but only really if you enjoy sours. The sweetness comes through as the beer warms up so drinking it at the 45° F temperature should be ideal. I would only recommend it if you like sours otherwise this may not be a beer for you.

Anime Corner:
Panty Anarchy from Panty and Stocking was used in this pairing mainly due to the label but mainly for the flavors. You see, Panty is pretty rude and aggressive who only interest is in herself and to seduce men into bed with her. The sour aspects of the beer plus the Kumquats definitely fit the description on this one. Not to say that she doesn’t care completely as she has a sweet side sometimes and knows how to get the job done when her friends are in trouble.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/362559

New American Oak Barrel Aged Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

July 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 6th Anniversary Ale, anniversary ale, burnt sugar, Dark Cherries, Iron, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Neon Genesis Evangelion, New American Oak Barrel, Old Ale, Sucre, Sugar, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.8/5

New American Oak Barrel Aged Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 14.5% ABV Old Ale aged in New American Oak Barrels.

Label:
100% Ale aged in New American Oak Barrels
This sturdy beer marks our sixth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (ratebeer.com)
Sucré is our sixth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain and then blended using the solera method.

A portion of each of our anniversary ales is saved in our barrels and blended in with the next year’s production, providing more complexity and depth of character that comes with aged. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, Sucré is a robust ale, surely the perfect beer to mark this major milestone.
___

Yet another Sucré variant worth mentioning, or atleast the one that comes in the Preservation Society release for 2nd quarter of the Bruery’s beers, this one is aged in New Oak Barrels. I have previously tried many variations of this one and this one is most likely the last one I review as they don’t sell the other ones anymore, unless you are part of the Reserve Society. Anyways, I will try to break down the similarities to the original as well as include some of the extra flavors this one brings. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of dulce de leche caramel especially the special caramel made in Mexico. Bananas, lots of oak, butterscotch, vanilla notes, dark cherries, port wine, chardonay, sweetened condensed milk, leather, tobacco, pecan pie, plums, raisins, figs dates, apples, stone fruit hints, burnt sugars, candy sugars, brown sugars, graham crackers, molasses, maple syrup and waffle cone.

Flavors:
Wine Grapes, Rich Oak, Stone fruit, Lots of Dulce de Leche caramel, toffee, pecan pie, flan, Bananas, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, cherries, plums figs, dates, raspberries, vanilla notes, butterscotch, chardonay, port wine, sweetened condensed milk, leather, tobacco, earthy spice, stone fruit, maple syrup, molasses, graham crackers, brown sugars, burnt sugars, candy sugars, waffle cone and hazelnut.

Aftertaste:
Finishes a little dryer than the other ones with caramel, dark fruit, wine grapes, oak wood, hints of vanilla and toffee. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with a full body and a syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
While it is still exceptional, this one is missing just a tad complexity that the others offers. It does taste more like wine though. It is still extremely delicious but I think some of the complexity I got with the original (Bourbon Barrel Aged) had more to offer. I also think since it is New Oak Barrels, they may not be as mature as some of the barrels that have had left over spirits to get that Angel Share into the bottle. The Oak does provide its own unique and dry characteristics to the beer which many will find just as appealing if not more. You be the judge.

Anime Corner:
Mari Illustrious Mikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion was brought back once again in this review since I wanted to show the aspect of New Oak in terms of using a test Plug suit. While used as a basic combat suit before she received her pink one, this one is one many have not seen before. Just like the beer, in this type of New American Oak Barrel, it may be premature even if it is just for wine but it still kicks a lot of ass because the power comes not from the suit she wears, but from Mari/Sucré herself.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1427349

Smoking Wood (Bourbon Barrel edition) by The Bruery

July 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, attack on titan, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Mikasa Ackerman, Smoked Imperial Rye Porter, Smoking Wood, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

Smoking Wood (Bourbon Barrel edition) by The Bruery is a 14% Smoked Imperial Rye Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
WANT A SMOAK?

A rich porter layered with rye spiciness and earthy smokey, caramel-like flavors, roasty malt and oaky deliciousness.

Smoking Wood is brewed with a hefty amount of both rye and smoked malt, contributing to a full body and light spiciness, balanced by extended oak aging. This beer will cellar gracefully but is best enjoyed fresh.
___

The original Smoking Wood (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/12/20/smoking-wood-by-the-bruery/) was aged in rye whiskey barrels. This bourbon barrel variation of the beer was released to the Bruery’s Preservation and Reserve Societies. After the loss of Couverteur, the Belgian Chocolate Vanilla Dubbel, the Bruery was able to replace that one with this one for their Preservation Society. Back then, when I first rated the original Smoking Wood I did not have my special rating system and rated that one 5/5. Today, the extra credit on that one would have been higher I am sure as this one will sure reach an exceptional rating I am sure. So let’s check it out and see if this one is worth obtaining.

Aromas:
Rich vanilla, campfire smoke, dulce de leche caramel, coconut, marshmallow smores, dark and milk chocolate, almond joy, burnt sugar on flan, jericallla (Mexican Custard), dark fruit hints, roasted malts, coffee hints, rye bread, butterscotch, bacon, BBQ honey glaze, maple, cherries, pecan pie, crème brulee, hazelnut nectar, plums, raisins, molasses and anise.

Flavors:
Rich Vanilla, oak, campfire smoke, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, toasted coconut on flamed marshmallow chocolate smores, flan, cinnamon, dark and milk chocolate, jericalla Mexican custard, burnt sugar, BBQ hone glazed bacon, maple, molasses, dark fruit cherries, plums raisins, special beachwood oak, hazelnut, pecan pie, rye bread, sourdough bread, butterscotch, crème brulee, molasses, and anise.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with burnt chocolate, oak, beachwood fancy wood, vanilla, bourbon, marshmallow, Barbecue smoked meat and flan. No alcohol in the taste, A sipping beer with with a full mouthfeel, Pitch black body and yet very smooth.

Overall:
Exceptional beer just like the original smoking wood in rye whiskey. I really think both of these go hand in hand except this one sure shines more of the marshmallow coconut and vanilla aspect than the rye, burnt oak and hone glaze of the other one. Regardless, both are insane and just as good. If you can find this variant, I suggest you trade for it and see if you can find the difference between them a little better. Although, regardless, both are phenomenal and highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Mikasa Ackerman from Attack on Titan returns in an epic pairing with the Bruery Smoking Wood. I wanted to include her in one of my reviews from the Bruery as she is my favorite character from that series. The aspects, aside from the label, that she bring forth to the pairing is how, in relation to smoking wood, her society relates to the smoking of wood. The time that she lives seems like something off of the old west where people ride in horses and carriages to get around and the only technology seems to be fire and wood in order to get light. So while lacking in technology, seems like this is what society is like during this time. Smoking wood reminds me of that. While everything is burning around her, there is this sweet glimmer of hope and strength that she brings forth. She is one of the strongest and fastest in the series fighting many of the Titans (Giant Zombie like creatures) in the series with easy. While she may have an dark cold demeanor, she is very kind and caring of her friends Eren and Armin. This was the perfect beer in my mind to pair with her.

Sources:
http://stazgaskarth.deviantart.com/art/Mikasa-Wallpaper-405729082
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Shingeki-no-Kyojin-Mikasa-Wallpaper-440812965

Stochasticity Project Varna Necropolis by Stone Brewing

July 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, bcnyart, belgian golden ale, Belgian Golden Strong Ale, Belgian Strong Pale Ale, Stochasticity Project, Stone Brewing, Varna Necropolis | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Stochasticity Project Varna Necropolis by Stone Brewing is am 8.6% Belgian Golden/Strong Pale Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

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.

For many, the verbiage “Belgian Golden Strong Ale” conjures the mental visage of a chalice of straw-hued liquid nearly overflowing with tight, fluffy, white bubbles. Though that effervescent European classic was a solid base for this, the sophomore release from our center for beer experimentation, but to test its unexplored possibilities, we added a sufficient lode of hops to up the ale’s bitter character and dry finish. Next came a lengthy aging period in bourbon whiskey barrels, quite the rarity for this style. Named for the Bulgarian site from which the largest golden treasure in history was excavated, this beer presents a wealth of next-level nuances including vanilla, wood and spice.

Beer Facts
OG 16°P
TG 0.21°P
IBUs 48
ABV 8.6% v/v
Color: 6.4 °L/ SRM (Standard Reference Method)
pH 4.22

Malt Varieties
Pale Malt and Flaked Oats

Hop Varieties
Simcoe and Amarillo

Aged in
Bourbon Barrels
___

The second beer on my journey during the World cup quarter finals and Anime Expo was this beer. I had initially traveled to Long Beach then the heart of downtown and Pasadena California all in a days worth to be able to get my hands on this piece of gold. This beer can only be obtained if you visit one of the Stone Company Stores only as it was not give a wide distribution. Not sure why, but anyways, I wanted to bring this forth as I have been wanting to try this since April of this year. Cheers!

Aromas:
Peppercorns, Piney, grassy, floral and grapefruit hops, oak, vanilla, biscuit bread, butter scotch, bourbon hints, citrus, oranges, coriander spice, cardamom,waffle cone, brown sugar, mango, pineapple, honey, musty grapes, farmhouse hay, flowers, honey and herbs.

Flavors:
Rich vanilla, oak, bourbon notes, flowers, peppercorns, banana clove spice, flan hints, caramel, piney, grassy and grapefruit hop notes, old oranges, wine grapes, farmhouse yeast, mushrooms, lemon peel, apricots, mango, coconut hints, coriander spice, wine and cheese party, honey, herbs and waffle cone.

Aftertaste:
Finishes Tart citrus, grapefruit, peppercorns, oak, bourbon, vanilla, honey grapefruit hops and old mango. No alcohol in the taste, light body, medium drinkability and medium mouth feel.

Overall:
While this is a very good beer, it starts to get to that perfect level once it starts to warm up. I have had other beers that really come close to this one but the bourbon really adds that extra level of complexity that I have not seen in such a beer. A Belgian Pale/Gold Ale in bourbon? It happened, and it seems to definitely work here. However, the bourbon barrel only gives it a slight sweetness as it leads more towards a sweet and tart taste as the hops still come on a little strong. A beer that probably comes close is the White Oak from the Bruery (Wheatwine Aged in Bourbon). Definitely give this one a try and see if this one works magic for you!

Anime Corner:
Original artwork by bcnyart at deviantart.com was used in this pairing because I wanted to pay tribute to the history that is represented in this beer. Liquid Gold and the name Varna Necropolis which is the tomb that holds the oldest treasures in the world. As you can see, the character is wearing all sorts of golden goodies dating even back into the Egyptian times as an example. I wish I could have found something relating to Bulgaria, lots of treasure and anime but Egypt serves as a great example in terms of age and some of the Egyptian tombs are just as old or maybe younger but still a good representative of treasures.

Sources:
http://bcnyart.deviantart.com/art/Dragons-with-Egyptian-Treasure-454386743

System of a Stout by Beachwood brewing

July 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Adventure Time, american oak barrels, Armenian Imperial Stout, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, Beachwood Brewing, Brandy Barrel Aged, Ellie, Imperial Stout, Last of Us, Marceline, Portola Coffee Lab, System of A Down, system of a stout, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

System of a Stout by Beachwood brewing is an 11.2% ABV World Class Armenian Imperial Stout aged in oak brandy barrels.

Label:
System of a Stout incorporates the ingredients of a traditional cup of Armenian-style coffee: cardamom, molasses, and a massive infusion of coffee from our good friends at Portola Coffee Lab in Costa Mesa, CA. This robust and flavorful brew is then oak aged, adding even more layers of complexity. Enjoy fresh or cellar at 45-55°.
___

What a beer, named after the System of a Down in reference to being a beer made in the Armenian style of coffee. Definitely traveled far and wide to Long Beach California where I had to pick this one up before it was gone. That and the fact that the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals and Anime Expo in downtown Los Angeles were going on all at the same time. That day was totally worth it and the fact that I was able to bring this for a review for you may hopefully make you decide to seek this one out for yourself. Let us see why this one is so, ‘World Class’!

Aromas:
Immediate rush of dark and rich espresso coffee fragrances, dark chocolate, dark fruit notes, molasses, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, cinnamon, flan hints, oak, brandy, dark cherries, chocolate cake, bananas, flan, almonds, pecan pie and vanilla ice cream.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Espresso coffee, Vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, oak, brandy, dark cherries, toffee, rye, earthy hop notes, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, rocky road ice cream, cinnamon, brown sugar, dark fruits like raisins and plums, cardamom spice, molasses, anise, pecan pie, flan, almonds, banana and chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Lingering coffee, dark chocolate, caramel, vanilla, oak, brandy, cherry hints and earthy spicy notes. No alcohol in the taste, drinks smooth yet syrupy mouthfeel. Dark full body with no trace of light in site.

Overall:
Exceptionally awesome! This is my favorite beer from Beachwood so far aside from the Mrs. Stoutfire collaboration they did with the Bruery. This beer is pretty close to Mocha Wednesday but misses the super complexity of that one. It is way delicious and up there with the greatest of the the great and the Brandy oak aging definitely takes it to that next level. I highly recommend getting this one as it is freaking amazing and close to one of the best coffee stouts in the world for sure!

Anime Corner:
Ellie from the Last of Us and Marceline from Adventure Time were used in this pairing for many reasons involving the dark aspects of the flavors and tribute to System of a Down. In the art work from Ellie it actually reminds me of the song B.Y.O.B video where it shows an army of soldiers in suits marching forward. The soldiers in the artwork you can say represent those soldiers from the video. The Marceline artwork just represent overall rock and basically the darkness of this beer and System of a Down as a Rock Band.

Sources:
http://artgerm.deviantart.com/art/Marceline-466739861
http://blogs-images.forbes.com/andyrobertson/files/2014/05/The-Last-of-Us-concept-art.jpg
System of a Down: B.Y.O B https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUzd9KyIDrM

Unapologetic IPA collaboration by Beachwood, Heretic and Stone Brewing

July 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, Beachwood Brewing, Black Lagoon, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, Heretic brewing, india pale ale, Revy, Stone Brewing, Unapologetic IPA | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Unapologetic IPA collaboration by Beachwood, Heretic and Stone Brewing is an 8.8% ABV Double India Pale Ale.

Label:
WHO SAYS THE WORLD NEEDS ANOTHER IPA? WE DO.

When you get three hopheads together to collaborate on a beer, it’s only natural to expect some hopped up liquid incarnation of their lupulin lust to spring forth from such a session. Maybe it seems passé to some—three masters of hoppy beer once again exploring the familiar territory of the India pale ale. After all, who needs yet another IPA, double or otherwise, right? It’s all been done. To those who feel this way, this trio’s reply is: “so what?”

In birthing a double IPA made bitter and fruity care of a mélange of new and experimental hops (Azacca, Belma as well as HBC 342 and Steiner 06300, yet-to-be-named varieties from Washington’s Yakima Valley), they aren’t staying in a comfort zone—they’re hitting a sweet spot in the name of all that is good, delicious, hoppy and forward-thinking to create an IPA that’s both like and unlike anything they, or you, have ever tasted. Rife with essence of pine, resin, and fruits both citrus and tropical, there’s no need for apologies with this beer. All that’s necessary is a yearning for hops, a sturdy constitution and an empty glass.

“With this beer we collectively celebrate the marvelous hop flower.”
Julian Shrago // Brewmaster & Co-owner, Beachwood Brewing

“To me, there’s nothing better than getting to brew something special with good friends
Jamil Zainasheff // Chief Heretic & Brewmaster. Heretic Brewing Company

“This was a great chance for three hopheads to brew a really cool IPA using many new, exciting hop varieties.”
Mitch Steele // Brewmaster, Stone brewing Co.
___

Another IPA? Yes!! However, this one is made with new experimental hops so the flavors will most likely be unique or at least different than some of the IPAs I have tried before unless you include the Fillmore Fusion from Lagunitas which had the hop ADHA 483. Unapologetic may either come from the use of extra bitter hops or just the fact that they shouldn’t apologize for making another IPA. Who knows, this one may actually be different. So let us check it out. Also, this one should see national distribution.

Aromas:
Lots of tropical aromas like mango, pineapple, papaya, lychee, passion fruit, dragon fruit, pine, grassy, floral and grapefruit hops, citrus, oranges, caramel, apples, berries and peach hints.

Flavors:
Lots of tropical fruits forward like mango, papaya, pineapple, passion fruit, lychee, prickly pear, blueberry, raspberry, tangerines, piney, floral, grassy and grapefruit hops, caramel biscuit bread hints, peach apples, oranges, honey dew melon, bubble gum, vanilla and some minor herbal hints.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with a fruity and floral yet minor bitterness in the end. No alcohol in the taste, crisp and refreshing with medium drinkability and a light body.

Overall:
If you love more tropics forward IPAs, this is perfect! I think in the sense that I really like the tropical fruit forward IPAs more than the herbal grassy ones or the caramel malty ones, this makes for a very awesome beer. I am still trying to find the apologetic side of this beer but I cannot as it is not overwhelmingly bitter. Unless like I mentioned before, they are only doing this to basically telling everyone to shove it, here is another awesome IPA offering and this one is very good.

Anime Corner:
Revy from Black Lagoon was used in this pairing to to show the aspect of unapologetic but also the aspects of the 3 brewers. We start with Revy’s look which displays a “I don’t give a Fuck!” attitude. She really is like this in the anime as her character is described as a merciless and sadistic killer. The red in her eyes display the fire of the Heretic, followed by the arrogance shown in the way she holds that cigarette as shown by Stone and finally the youth and rebellious newcomer of Beachwood shown in that tattoo of hers. The shades of green are the shades of hops brought forth from the collaboration of them all. Truly a work of art!

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1740503

2014 Quingenti series Batch no. 5 Bastard in the Rye by Stone brewing

July 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Strong Ale, arrogant bastard, Arrogant Bastard Ale, Baiken, Bastard in The Rye, Guilty Gear, Quingenti Millilitre Series, Rye Whiskey, Stone Brewing, Templeton Rye Whiskey, Templeton Rye Whiskey Barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.55/5

2014 Quingenti Millilitre series Batch no. 5 Bastard in the Rye by Stone brewing is a 10% ABV is an American Strong Ale aged in Rye Whiskey Barrels. Essentially, 2013 Arrogant Bastard aged in Templeton Rye Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
Brewed December 10th, 2013
The progenitor of the American strong ale style, Arrogant Bastard Ale is loaded with malt, hops and bold flavors. This audaciously complex, aggressive beer never wavers in its unprecedented celebration of intensity.

In the Mash: Classified
In The Boil: Classified
In the Whirlpool: Classified

Unfiltered and Aged
5 months in Charred American Oak Templeton Rye Whiskey-Barrels
IBUs: Classified
10% Alc/Vol
Bottled May 2014

Cellar Notes
This is our third experiment using barrels from Templeton Rye Whiskey, an artisanal spirit conjurer dating back to the Prohibition Era. Arrogant Bastard Ale’s aggressive base flavors lead the charge, followed by well-integrated whiskey flavors, lifting already intense caramel notes while adding nuances of vanilla and spice. Smooth and lingering toasted oak and coconut, developed during aging, come on strong in the finish. Deep and complex, this beer will continue to evolve with the passage of time, just as our country’s views on firewater have since the “noble experiment’s” abrogation.
___

The true king of beers has returned with an unleashing fury of honor this time equipped with extra strength and no holding back to complexity, bitterness and flavor. Why do I talk so highly of this beer? Because the original arrogant bastard has held up a lot of praise in my mind since the beginning when I first started doing reviews and getting into craft beer in general. Tasking like one bitter but potent and delicious son a of a bitch, it was no wonder I really liked it. Just like that one, I am sure this one will show no mercy either.

Aromas:
Strong banana and dulce de leche caramel aromas on rye bread, coconut, macaroons, chocolate, tropical fruits, old mango, oak, vanilla, bourbon whiskey, toffee, flan, crème brulee,honey, earthy hops, campfire wood, coriander, maple, berry, white chocolate, wheat, raw citrus oranges, brown sugar and butterscotch.

Flavors:
Dulce de Caramel glazed grapefruits, rye bread, bananas, dark cherry, flan, burnt oak, coconut, macaroons, chocolate, tropical fruits, old mango, oranges, oak, vanilla, bourbon whiskey, toffee, crème brulee, campfire wood, coriander, maple syrup, molasses, white chocolate, berries and cream hints, butterscotch, honey, earthy hops and the good cheese.

Aftertaste:
Leaves with caramel, rye, grapefruit, flan, piney and earthy bitter hops. No alcohol in the taste, sipping beer with close to a full body.

Overall:
Exceptionally delicious and very Bastard like. I really love how even though the super hop flavors are there, they are settled down to bring forth lots of complexity that is extremely complimentary of the Bastard showing a very special side of the bastard not seen before when done with other versions of the Bastard. I highly recommend trying this one out for sure and you may want to get another one just to savor. I just hope Stone releases these in 750ml instead.

Anime Corner:
Baiken from Guilty Gear was paired with this awesome beer as she has been used since the original Arrogant Bastard. She represents the original Bastard in the sense that she follows the arts of Bushido and honor, like the honor of Arrogant Bastard which fights the good fight against Macro tasteless beers as in the original philosophy of the Arrogant Bastard. This time, she is surrounded by the sugar canes and smoking her pipe to represent the oak and rye. The mission to not only surpass the pre-prohibition era as synonymous to bring more of the craft movement forward is ongoing and forever, she will bring the Arrogance forward as a weapon of delight!… Or so I am told, either way, don’t mess with her, she will make you pay.

Sources:
http://zytier23.deviantart.com/art/Baiken-59631303
http://de29v101l.deviantart.com/art/Baiken-Wallpaper-159984989

Lips of Faith series Grätzer collaboration by New Belgium and 3 Floyds

July 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged collaboration, Grätzer, High School of the Dead, Lips of Faith, new belgium, Rika Minami, Shizuka Marikawa, Smoked Ale, smoked beers, Three Floyds, Zombie | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Lips of Faith series Grätzer collaboration by New Belgium and 3 Floyds is a 4.5% ABV Grätzer style or Smoked Beer.

Label:
It’s not dead, but Gratzer is definitely a long-buried style from Poland. Together with 3Floyds we unearthed its robust smokiness with oak smoked wheat and Midnight Wheat. Polish Lublin hops for a bitter bite and lacto for a slightly sour finish, this pours out a billowing, foamy mouth worth indulging.
___

The next in line of zombie beers out there and brought by an unlikely collaboration with the Awesome 3 Floyds brewing and New Belgium. Prior to looking up this beer, I saw the type of style Grätzer was and long behold it is a smoked beer style like the German Rauchbeer. So I I guess going into this, you would definitely have to have a palate for smokey bitter beers if you would really appreciate it. Then again if you wanna know what grave stones, dirt and zombies taste like and enjoy the label, then awesome. So let us check it out.

Aromas:
Good amount of smoke, oak, dark fruit hints, ash, dark chocolate, burnt caramel, biscuit, smoked peat, licorice, anise, molasses, zombie brains, iron, coriander, wheat, rye bread, maple, brown sugar and earthy hops.

Flavors:
Earthy hops, Smoked malts, oak, dark fruit hints, ash, molasses, dark chocolate hints, burnt caramel, biscuit bread, licorice hints, anise, molasses, grains, coriander, wheat, rye bread, hints of brown sugar, oatmeal, bacon and barbecue hints…oh yeah and zombie brains

Aftertaste:
Finishing up dry with hints of smoke, oak and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste, easy to medium drinkability, pitch black body and refreshing.

Overall:
This one is very good for a smoked beer. Nothing is overwhelming here giving way to hints and flavors here and there while still maintaining a bitter and smokey balance that sweetens out as you drink it and warms up. For Smokey beer lovers only or just fans that are willing to try a zombie beer. Just realize, its not only evil in appearance…

Anime Corner:
Original character, Shizuka Marikawa and Rika Minami from High School of The Dead represent all aspects of zombies and ass kickery. Basically Shizuka (NB) and Rika (3F) are like the breweries collaborating and destroying zombies to add to the mash and boil. Sounds pretty gruesome but hey, it’s all in the zombie fanaticism anyway. Their creation, Gratzer, is representative of the original character with the samurai swords. This is one bad ass beer and well basically a bad ass collaboration so I really wanted to show the zombie aspects to fit with this one.

Sources:
http://img.batoto.net/comics/2011/10/14/j/read4e978d034584e/032.jpg
http://konachan.com/post/show/80323

Dark Night of the Soul by Monkish brewing

July 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian imperial Stout, Belgian Stout, Dark Belgian Stout, Dark Night of the Soul, Fate Night, Fate Stay Night, Fate Zero, monkish brewing, Saber, Saber Alter/Dark | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

Dark Night of the Soul by Monkish brewing is an 11.1% ABV Belgian Imperial Stout.

So far few in between and yet another favorite style of beer comes forth and takes me back to why I really love these types of beers. The Belgian imperial stout is one that doesn’t come that often and for the ones that I have tried, simply some of the best I have ever tried. Monkish from Torrance California released this special batch of beer that is only sold at the brewery and is very limited. Only 50 cases made, so yeah. If this beer does good, they may one day decide to release it again. Until then, I bring it forth to you for review. Cheers!

Aromas:
Pecan pie, Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coconut, marshmallow smores, oak, anise, molasses, brown sugar, hints of rum, port wine, dark cherries, vanilla, black currants, raisin bread pudding, hazelnut nectar and banana hints.

Flavors:
Black currants, Pecan pie, dark fruits like raisins, plums, dark cherries, figs, Belgian, dark and milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, cocoa powder, port wine hints, rum hints, hazelnut nectar, banana hints, raisin bread pudding, clove spice, anise, molasses, oak, marshmallow smores and coconut hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, dark fruits, earthy spice, pecans and caramel linger for a little bit. No alcohol in the taste despite the fact that this is a sipping beer. It also has some smooth chocolatey creaminess to it. It has a full mouthfeel and it has a pitch black body.

Overall:
Right next to Seme De La Vita, this is my new favorite offering from Monkish. It is extremely exceptional! It really does remind me about how unique the Belgian Stout style can really get. This is one of the best examples for sure. Highly recommended if you can get this one or trade for it.

Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber from Fate Stay Night was used perfectly in this pairing because I wanted to show something in regards to a Dark Night, Evil Soul as well as pay tribute to the monasteries like the theme Monkish brings forth. The colors represent the flavors of the beer and her dark evil power the ABV. She is very dangerous as you will want to drink the whole thing in one sitting, but just like the best beers ever, it must be respected and enjoyed wisely.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1637555

Greenshift (Three Year Anniversary Ale) by Beachwood Brewing

July 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 3 year anniversary, anniversary ale, Beachwood Brewing, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, Final Fantasy 4, Greenshift, india pale ale, Nelson Sauvin, Rydia, Rydia of the Mist, tropical fruits | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

Greenshift (Three Year Anniversary Ale) by Beachwood Brewing is a 10% ABV Double India Pale Ale.

Label:
Greenshift is a gargantuan double India pale ale with a wide spectrum of hops. Citra, Amarillo, El Dorado, Nelson Sauvin, Galaxy, and Warrior varieties in the kettle create a planetary array of flavors. An infinite wavelength of aromas come from a supernova-sized charge of Citra, Mosaic, and Nelson Sauvin.
___

Celebrating their 3rd year in brewing, Beachwood released this huge double IPA to the masses during their anniversary part. I am unsure if this beer will see distribution but I hope it does. I did not get a chance to try it while I was there and they recommended I grab a bottle to go. So I was like screw it! Let us see how good this beer is.

Aromas:
Herbal, floral, grapefruit, grassy and piney hops, garlic, and oniony dank notes. Mild caramel, biscuit bread, some tropical fruits coming through like mango, peach, apricot, hop oils, kiwi, strawberry, honey and herbal spices.

Flavors:
Herbal, grapefruit, floral, grassy and piney hops, garlic and onion notes, basil, caramel, biscuit bread, citrus, pineapple hints, tropical fruits like mango and peach, hop oil resin, herbal spices, mild brown sugar, apricot and all sorts of hop bitterness.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with dry finish only herbal hops, citrus and some caramel remain along with hop bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, but sipping drinkability. It is also very crisp and refreshing having a medium mouth feel.

Overall:
In the flavor profiles of IPA, this one falls strongly with the herbal hop type than the caramel citrus or intense Tropical fruit aspects which I really love and seek in IPAs. While it is a very delicious beer, I prefer the other kind of IPAs. Although, this one did have some tropical and malty caramel elements to it at different temperatures.. True hop heads can’t get enough of this one. At least in terms of the true hoppy and grassy style of IPA, this one knocks it out of the park for sure. Highly recommended if Grassy herbal dank IPAs is your thing.

Anime Corner:
Rydia from Final Fantasy 4 was used in this pairing to pair with the label colors and the whole green shift aspect. Rydia is a Summoner and a Black Sorceress so the whole Greenshift and aspect of change in one’s environment is what it is all about. That is what she does. So when you have a beer that shifts in all sorts of flavor profiles, nothing short of magic here.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/view_post/57558?lang=en
http://www.zerochan.net/full/221561

Feminist by Monkish brewing

July 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged apples, Apricots, Belgian Abbey Tripel, brown sugar, city of torrance california, Erza Scarlet, Fairy Tail, Feminist, Hibiscus, monkish brewing, Tripel Style | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Feminist by Monkish brewing is a 9.4% ABV Belgian Tripel brewed with Hibiscus.

Now available in some areas of Southern California, this beer is one of Monkish’s strongest an most delicious beers. While I mainly enjoy the Floraison, this one has its own great flavors to it. It is also now available for growler pour as well.

Aromas:
Vanilla, Flowers, Hibiscus, peppercorn spice, caramel, herbs, kiwi, lemonade, cherry, sour notes, apricots, watermelon, brown sugar, hints of chamomile, apples, citrus, coriander, biscuit bread, honey and ginger.

Flavors:
Banana, clove spice, vanilla, caramel, flowers, hibiscus drink (Jamaica), herbs, lemonade hints, citrus, grapefruit , wine grape sour hints, watermelon hints, apricots, brown sugar, ginger, apples, stone fruits, peppercorns, honey, biscuit bread, apples, chamomile apricots and coriander spice.

Aftertaste:
Almost dry finish with some lingering honey, biscuit bread, hibiscus flower notes, vanilla and fruits. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. A sipping beer yet medium mouthfeel even if it has a clear body.

Overall:
A very good beer which brings some Farm house and Floral characteristics to the Tripel Style some unique aspects of the beer flow through. While it is one of their most delicious selections, I still enjoy some of their other ones more. This is a highly recommended one though so give it a shot.

Anime Corner:
Erza Scalet from Fairy Tail was used in this pairing because I wanted to portray feminist as being a woman in power. Strong despite any objections and truly a just as bad ass. Erza is that kind of person who can take command of situations and truly persevere. So I figured this would work. Any suggestions or comments? Please let me know.

Sources:
http://unrealyeto.deviantart.com/art/Queen-Erza-Scarlet-339413114
http://www.wallconvert.com/wallpapers/anime/erza-scarlet-fairy-tail-14354.html

Backwoods Bastard by Founders Brewing

July 2, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Backwoods Bastard, Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy, Founders Brewing, Kawashiro Nitori, Kurodani Yamame, Scotch Ale, Touhou, Wee Heavy, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Backwoods Bastard by Founders Brewing is a 10.2% ABV World Class Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy aged in bourbon barrels.

Description:
Big and delicious for your ’perty mouth. Expect lovely, warm smells of single malt scotch, oaky bourbon barrels, smoke, sweet caramel and roasted malts. A bit of earthy spice and a scintilla of dark cherries. It’s a kick-back sipper made to excite the palate.
___

Thanks to my friend Aaron from www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this awesome Wee Heavy. Rated as the 5th best Wee Heavy Scotch ale in the world, this is quite the honor. The Wee Heavy Style is one of my favorite styles of beer that is not often brewed or just not often seen by me. All the ones I have tried are just phenomenal, and yet I have not found a true bad Scotch Ale yet. So to Aaron, once again, cheers for donating this one to the site good sir!

Aromas:
Lots of rich vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark and milk chocolate, very dark fruit raisins, figs, dark cherries, plums, rye bread, brown sugar, smoked peat, toasted coconut, bourbon, marshmallows, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, choco flan, molasses, oak, scotch whiskey, port wine, almond joy, anise, licorice and marshmallows smores over campfire.

Flavors
Lots of oak, rye bread, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, bourbon, scotch and butterscotch, toasted coconut, macadamia nut nectar, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, molasses, smoked peat, dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, anise, choco flan, raisin bread pudding, prailines, milk and dark chocolate, espresso hints, rye bread, brown sugar, marshmallow smores, almond joy chocolate, licorice hints, port wine, ginger spice hints, earthy notes, brownie on vanilla ice cream and cookies and cream.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with dark and mil chocolate, vanilla, caramel, scotch, toasted coconut, dark cherry, dark fruit raisins and anise. Well hidden alcohol, a sipping but very smooth drinkability with a medium mouth feel.

Overall:
Definitely one of the highest candidates. This beer is truly exceptionally world class. The way it is done with balance, smoothness and lots of complex and rich flavors is just up there with some of the greats! Probably the best Wee Heavy I have ever tried. Highly Recommended! Thanks again Aaron, and cheers!!

Anime Corner:
Kawashiro Nitori and Kurodani Yamame from the Touhou were chosen in this pairing represent the label and the overall name of what it really means to be a Backwoods Bastard!! Yes they fight over a cooked fish at camp grounds but that does not mean they should not share. That doesn’t meant you shouldn’t share this one as it comes in a 4 pack. My friend was awesome for passing this along to me and knows what it is like to share the wealth when it comes to searching for the lost beer treasures. I had only heard a little bit about this beer and now that I know, I wish to seek it out again one day. The woods and mountains is where Nitori is from and Yamame was probably lost since she is from the underworld. Just goes to show, how much of a Bastard Yamame may be. Oh well.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1241174

2014 RealTail Collaboration by Real Ale and Freetail brewing

July 1, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged black ipa, Cascadian Dark India Pale Ale, Freetail Brewing, Real Ale Brewing, Real Tail, San Antonio Texas | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

2014 RealTail Collaboration by Real Ale and Freetail brewing is a 6.66%ABV Cascadian Dark India Pale Ale.

Label:
2014 Central Texas Collaboration
realtail
the black white IPA
brewed and bottled by freetail brewing co. of San Antonio in Collaboration Real Ale brewing Co. of Blanco.
___

A special thanks to my friend Aaron from Texas, owner and beer reviewer of www.beermetaldude.com who hooked me up with an even more elusive, super exclusive, brewery only release of this beer. This beer is so exclusive that there is little information about the beer even though it was made by two great Texas breweries and sold at Freetail this year. The idea behind RealTail is that it is supposed to be a Black IPA by color but a White IPA by taste. Or so it goes. An IPA that I may have tried similarly was the Bear Republic’s Black Race IPA long ago. It was black in color but man, the tropics and herbal hops were the win there. So I am very curious to see what the special creation of Real Ale and Freetail have to offer. Both breweries which I have reviewed their beers before are very delicious and awesome. Cheers to those good folks and Cheers to you Aaron once again, thanks brother!

Aromas:
Grapefruit, grassy and piney hops, citrus, Smoked malt, tropical fruits like mango, papaya, molasses, anise, herbs, peaches, caramel and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Smoked malts, mild chocolate, Grapefruit, grassy, earthy, and piney hops, citrus, tropical fruits like mango, papaya, pineapple, molasses, anise, herbs, brown sugar, peach hints, caramel, biscuit bread and flowers.

Aftertaste:
Grassy and earth hop resin, citrus, mango hints, caramel and smoked malt. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink, refreshing and crisp with a medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
This is very interesting. There is a balance of the black smoke, and malty goodness of the black IPA and the herbal, dank and tropical fruit hoppy flavors of a regular IPA all melding together really nicely. So while it is not a black IPA trying to be a white IPA in taste, it is actually a fusion of both. This is great! If you love Black IPAs, this is awesome!

Anime Corner:
Original Artwork by Osamu (Jagabata) was used in this pairing to complement the idea of the Black White IPA as well as the collaborative efforts of Real Ale and Freetail in this beer. Some of the colors represent some of the flavors like the smoked malt, mild chocolate, floral notes, earthy hops to some extent tropical fruits and grassy hops. Either way, to me this pairing was just perfect in all ways. What do you guys think?

Source:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2012-11-23-543070.jpeg

Tree Shaker by Odell Brewing

July 1, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Colorado beer, Hinanawi Tenshi, india pale ale, IPA, Odell Brewing, Peach, Touhou, Tree Shaker | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Tree Shaker by Odell Brewing is a 10.1% ABV Imperial Peach India Pale Ale.

Label:
Colorado…we really love your peaches, wanna shake your tree! Tree Shaker Imperial IPA was brewed with 3000 pounds of pureed Colorado peaches. The bright citrus hop character and subtle fruity sweetness will get your feet tapping and your taste buds dancing. 9.7% to 10.1%.
___

Another special shout to my good friend Aaron in Texas, beer connoisseur at www.beermetaldude.com, for hooking me up with another awesome beer. This time it is a Double IPA brewed with peaches. I would believe the peach flavors would be something seen in like a Belgian style. I have had many IPAs but I think this the very first time I had one with peaches. Let’s check it out!

Aromas:
Rich Peach aromas, flowers, grassy, floral, and piney hops are subtled by the tropical fruits of apricot, mango, pineapple, plums, tangerines, grapefruits, oranges, coriander, biscuit bread, strawberries, blueberries, honey, hints of peppercorns, honeydew melon, waffle cone, vanilla and caramel.

Flavors:
Rich peaches, apricots, plums, stone fruits, flowers, grapefruits, citrus, grassy, piney and floral hops, tropical fruits like pineapple, tangerines, mango, honeydew melons, strawberries, blueberries, vanilla, caramel, honey, coriander spice, peppercorn hints, honey, waffle cone, grapes, apples and dank herbal hops hints as well.

Aftertaste:
Peach, stone fruit, citrus, tropics, grapefruit hops and vanilla linger in the finish. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. A sipping yet smooth, refreshing and crisp beer with like an almost syrupy mouth feel.

Overall:
Hot damn! What a great beer. This beer drinks more to the Belgian Pale Ale than an IPA. However, there are many aspects especially the middle of the mouth hop presence that keeps reminding you, it is an IPA. I guess in terms of a Belgian IPA, it is not full bodied so it wouldn’t count there. I like fruit beers and this one was freaking amazing. Odell is a rarity here in California and there is no way in hell I would have known about this awesome beer’s existence. Thanks again Aaron, you really come through for me brother, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Hinanawi Tenshi from the Touhou series was used in this pairing to represent the tree shaker. She carries peaches on head which probably fell from the tree. She represents the peach and berry tropics that this beer brings to the table.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/335403-1144×1600-touhou-hinanawi+tenshi-rayxray-long+hair-single-tall+image.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/468447

Señorita by Elevation Beer Co

June 25, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Cinnamon, Colorado beer, Dia de los Muertos, Elevation Beer Company, Horchata, Imperial Porter, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Mexican Tradition, mexican vanilla, Naruto, Señorita, Señorita Beer, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Señorita by Elevation Beer Co is an 8.2% ABV Horchata Imperial Porter brewed with Vanilla and Cinnamon.

Label:
Black Series
Southern Colorado is deeply steeped in the history of the pueblos of the American Southwest and the first European settlers from Spain who settled our beautiful state. Horchata is the classic Spanish/Mexican style drink still served at authentic local restaurants from Durango to Alamosa to Denver. Paying homage to my family’s roots in the San Luis Valley, we decided to make a beer worthy of this classic drink and our state’s Spanish roots.

Cheers!
Sheila Atencio Bustamante
Co-Founder

This beer pours a deep dark brown with a snow-white head. Aroma notes of Vanilla, Cinnamon and sweet milk hit the nose bringing up images of the delicious Mexican drink this beer is styled after. The beer hits the palate with Vanilla, sweet chocolate malts, and a hint of cinnamon; all with a medium body and a balancing hop bitterness. Enjoy this beer next to a roaring fire with your amigos in a cozy cabin after a long day of skiing the deep powder of the Rocky Mountains

Bottle#04050
Style: Horchata/Imperial Porter
Alc/Vol: 8.5
Hops: Northern Brewer, Chinook
Malts: Two-Row, Crystal, Aromatic Chocolate, Roasted Barley, Flaked Barley
Extras: Milk Sugar, Cinnamon, Madagascar Vanilla Beans
Pairings: Mexican Chocolate Cake, Mole, Barbacoa Street Tacos
___

Another special release that was donated to the website thanks to my good friend Aaron of www.beermetaldude.com of Texas. This beer pays homage to our heritage of Mexican decent. Horchata is a very delicious Rice, cinnamon and vanilla drink. I have only once had another Horchata beer which was the Bruery’s Or Xata. As I remember that beer, when I first had it on draft with actual authentic tacos, it was bliss! So now, we have a chance to show what this beer is about. Will it come close to that? Let us see.

Aromas:
Vanilla, Cinnamon, dark chocolate, chocolate abuelita, roasted coffee, churros, milk chocolate, milk sugar, rice pudding, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, prailines, flan, chocolate covered cherries, dark fruits, brown sugar, hazelnut, molasses, anise, earthy hop character and toffee.

Flavors:
Chocolate Churros, Horchata, Milk Chocolate, rich Dark Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, Flan, cinnamon, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like raisins, capirotada raisin bread pudding, chocolate cherries, molasses, anise, Kahlua hints, earthy hops, toffee, milk sugars, pecan pie, prailines and hazelnut.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, roasted coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel and earthy hops linger. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with a silky and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
This one is over the top delicious. It does have flavors which reminded me of the Or Xata but with chocolate and a roasted and earthy notes. It was very awesome in its own way and I think I like it a bit better than Or Xata although what really makes Or Xata special is much more rice, milk and sweet flavors. I love them both and I would definitely recommend them both if you can find them.

Anime Corner:
Lady Kaguya Ootsutsuki from Naruto and Original Skull Face Girl Artwork were used in this pairing because I wanted to show the flavors of the Horchata. Kaguya has the milky colors of the Horchata as well as the cherry and chocolate flavors of the dark beer. She is a coldhearted demon trying to take over the world. Her power represents the complexity of this beer, even if she is evil. The skeleton girl pays tribute to the Mexican heritage of Dia de los Muertos but it also pays tribute to the label of Señorita!

Sources:
http://shikaobing.deviantart.com/art/20140604-Bloody-Moon-458500195
http://ifeergirl.deviantart.com/art/Naruto-679-Kaguya-459716749
http://www.desktopbackgrounds.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Skull-Face-Girl-Dia-De-Muertos.jpg

La Bestia Aimable (1 year aged) by Ranger Creek

June 25, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, La Bestia, La Bestia Aimable, Ranger Creek, San Antonio Texas, sour beer, Texas | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

La Bestia Aimable (1 year aged) by Ranger Creek is a 9.4% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with honey.

Label:
Bottle Conditioned
Batch# LB-011
Date: 6/25/2013

In 1685, the explorer La Salle claimed Texas in the name of France, landing at Matagorda Bay on a ship called the Aimable. In honor of Texas’ French and Mexican heritages, we created a complex Belgian-style ale with a name to match: La Bestia is Spanish for “The Beast,” while Aimable is French for “friendly.” This devilishly friendly dark strong ale has a rich, complex nose of deep berry and fig with cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper spicy notes, and a superbly drinkable body full of rich, dark fruit flavors. The use of Texas honey and a well attenuated body in the Belgian abbey tradition make this beer superbly drinkable despite its high alcohol content. La Bestia Aimable pairs well with carbonade, lamb, game and fowl, rich cheeses such as triple-crème and Gorgonzola, as well as decadent desserts like sticky toffee pudding, dark chocolate and raspberry cake, and tiramisu.
___

Special thanks to Aaron from www.beermetaldude.com for donating this beer to me. It has been sitting around until today, 6/25/2014, exactly 1 year from the date it was bottled. This is a Belgian quad that you can only find in Texas. Ranger Creek is straight from San Antonio Texas. This is the second beer I try from them. Their other beer was really good so I cannot wait to try this one too. Cheers Aaron and Cheers to Ranger Creek for making this!

Aromas:
Dark fruits like plums, raisins, dulce de leche caramel, oak, funky sour hints, stone fruits like peaches, apricots, honey, apples, rye, smoked peat, cinnamon, dark chocolate, tart raspberries, candi sugars, brown sugar, molasses, anise and flowers.

Flavors:
Caramel, chocolate, tart raspberries, dark fruits like plums and raisins, lots of oak, sour wine grapes, coffee, espresso, port wine notes, cinnamon, vanilla, cherries, molasses, raisin bread pudding, pecans, prailines, honey, apples, rye bread, smoked peat, stone fruit apricots, peaches, mild clove spices and bananas.

Aftertaste:
Raisins, plums, caramel, earthy notes, sour grapes, figs, cinnamon. No alcohol in the aftertaste. A sipping beer, with a medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
Very delicious! This beer reminds me of a Sour Quadruple hybrid. It is not all sour but mostly fruity and tart. The tart aspect with the oak gives it some balance to the sweet quad. I would say, it almost drinks like a Flemish brown like the beers made in the French speaking areas of Belgium I would recommend giving this one a try. It does seem like age has made this one more refined. Be careful when opening this beer as it’s contents could spill upon opening. Best opened over a sink or have the glass ready as to not to spill a drop!!

Anime Corner:
Evil Monster daughter by unknown artist was used in this pairing to pair with the label and the aspect of La Bestia Amaible which is the Friendly beast. The colors pay tribute to an array of flavors provided by this beer. Lots of things going on. The high ABV can be said to be so well hidden that you cannot tell if she has good intentions or not. Either way, delicious and awesome. You decide if the voyage through this beer is well worth your while.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/1AFOkr2.jpg

Cherry Chocolate Double Brown Stout by Deep Ellum Brewing

June 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Cherry Chocolate Double Brown Stout, Cherry chocolate porter, Chocolate Porter, Deep Ellum, Deep Ellum Brewing, Double Brown, Double Brown Stout, Gurren Lagan, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, Tootsie Rolls, Yoko Littner, Yoko Ritona | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.8/5

Cherry Chocolate Double Brown Stout by Deep Ellum Brewing is an 8% ABV Cherry Chocolate Chocolate Porter.

Label:
What a Mouthful!
Cherry Chocolate Double Brown Stout.
Our logical offering for a passionate time of year.

8% ABV 27 IBUs

Who says Brewers can’t pluck your heartstrings? We’ll play right to your heart (and palette and belly) by taking our already smooth and rich Double Brown Stout and taking out to a night on the town. By adding real Red Tart and Dark Sweet Cherries at the beginning of fermentation and **(Organic/Fair Trade) cocoa nibs at the end of conditioning, once a year we treat our Double Brown Stout lavishly. Don’t be a selfish lover, share with this someone special.

Style: Cherry Chocolate Baltic Porter
Hops: US Goldings, Mt. Hood, US Northern Brewer, Summit
Malts: Pale Ale, Munich light, Brown, Munich Dark, Oats, C rystal Rye, Extra Dark Crystal, Dehusked Chocolate
Yeast: California Lager
Other: Blackstrap Molasses, Red Tart & Dark Sweet Cherry Puree’, Cocoa Nibs
Packages: 50L, 1/6th bbl
___

A very special limited release that can only come from Texas! It is all thanks to my friend Aaron at www.beermetaldude.com. This is the second time I try a Deep Ellum beer and when I say the first one I tried, Four Swords, it was awesome. Now here is a beer that tell you what it’s gonna be about and there is not much you can do to escape it. This beer looks very seductive and sweet. When my friend Aaron first showed me a picture I was like Holy SHIT YES!!! DO WANT! So now here it is. Straight from the heart of Dallas Texas, traveling to California, here is the review. Cheers to you Aaron and the good folks at Deep Ellum! Thank you !

Aromas:
Rich Cherry cordials, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Cherry Chocolate cake, toffee, dark fruits, espresso notes, Irish cream notes, raspberries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan hints, hazelnut, almond joy, tootsie rolls, molasses, brown sugar, earthy hops, rye and mild coconut.

Flavors:
Chocolate Tootsie rolls, chocolate cherry cordials, dark and milk chocolate, chocolate cherry cake, roasted espresso coffee, earthy hops, Irish cream notes, raspberries, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut, almond joy, molasses, brown sugar, rye, coconut hints, flan, dark fruits like raisins, and prunes.

Aftertaste:
Chocolate, cherry, raspberry hints, Roasted coffee, earthy hop bitterness and caramel.No alcohol in the taste. A moderate to sipping drinkabilty with a creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
I am a sucker for sweet cherry chocolate and seductive beers. What can I say . This ones out there! IT really has a rich complexity of sweets and enough coffee and earthy hops to keep everything in check but this is mainly a sweet awesome beer. If you somehow end up in Texas or were very fortunate enough to get this limited piece or can trade for it, GET IT! It is really is delicious and awesome.

Anime Corner:
Yoko Littner from Gurren Lagann was used in this pairing because I kinda wanted to sensualize the sexual cherry chocolate aspect that this beer brings. The label colors and the flavors pair all. Way too well that is is scary but pleasant. Perfect in all ways yes! The style of the art work used in the label and how it uses splashes of colors definitely pairs well. Yoko Represents all the cherry, chocolate and dark fruit of the beer.

Sources:
http://gallery.minitokyo.net/download/397695

RU55 by Jester King

June 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Flanders Red Ale, GS Mikami, jester king, Maria, Mikami, Oak aged, oak barrels, RU55, sour wine grapes, West Flanders | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

RU55 by Jester King is a 7.3% ABV Flanders Red Ale aged in oak barrels.

Label:
For generations, the farms of West Flanders have been tended to by large, anthropomorphic automations. In recent years, many of these farms have been taken over by large, multinational corporations, and their automations replaced by shiny new electronic robots. Scattered about the countryside, however, there are still a few intrepid farmers who insist on doing things the old-fashioned way.
___

Gotta give a great thanks to my friend Aaron at http://www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this hard to find/brewery/Texas only exclusive beer. Jester King has been on the rise as one of Texas best breweries when it comes to sour ales and saisons. They make some very amazing beers. I have only been lucky to try a handful until recently since my friend has been hooking me up. A great donation to the site and vise versa. Thank you once again brother !

Aromas:
Sour wine grapes, dark fruits, oak, musty funky barnyard hay, caramel, cherries, biscuit bready, rye, brown sugar, hints of chocolate, toffee, sour apples and berries

Flavors:
Lots of oak, sour wine grapes, dark fruit raisins, biscuit bread, chocolate hints, dark cherry yogurt, caramel, toffee, musty and funky yeast notes, tart sour apples, oak, brown sugar notes, rye, berries, tart currants and plums.

Aftertaste:
Puckering tart dark fruits, caramel, biscuit, berries, wine grapes, sour funk and oak. No alcohol in the taste and a sipping beer with full mouth feel.

Overall:
There is something I love about amber ales since the first one I tried which was the Fat Tire Ale. This beer reminds me of the malty, biscuity and caramel ambers that I love with some very nice sour flavors. It is well balanced. I especially like how these characteristics really show as the beer warms up. It is a perfectly well made Flanders Red Ale and I highly recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Maria from Ghost Sweeper Mikami was used in this pairing to pair with the robot used in this beer as well as the variety of flavors in this beer. Berries and Cherry oak with souring grapes and malty caramel and the vest of dark fruit carry this one while Maria still packs a crazy sour punch but her sweetness is undeniable under that metallic structure of hers. She is a bad ass android and was the best choice for this paring!

Source:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2009-04-11-155961.jpeg

Wild Streak by Brooklyn brewery

June 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Wild Ale, Belgian Strong Golden Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Brettanomyces, Brooklyn Brewery, Brooklyn Wild Streak, Wild Streak, Zone, Zone Tan | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Wild Streak by Brooklyn brewery is a 10% ABV American Wild Ale aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
There was a time when all beers were aged in wood and yeasts ran wild and converted together. Modern brewing is wonderful, but sometimes a little converting is a fine thing. Brooklyn Wild Streak is our barrel-aged Belgian-inspired golden ale enlivened by the earthy funk of wild yeast called Brettanomyces. It’s particularly great with cheeses and game meats. Oh, go ahead. You know you want to.
___

Special thanks for Aaron at www.beermetaldude.comfor hooking me up with this one. While this is not from Texas, Brooklyn brewery stuff is hard to come by here in California. This is the second one I ever get a chance to try. I like a lot of wild ales but this one is with bourbon barrels. So I expect this one to be sweeter than sour.

Aromas:
Lots of stone fruit like peaches, apricot, lychee mango, citrus, vanilla, oak, bourbon, honey, waffle cone, musty grape notes, good cheese, biscuit bread, butterscoth, floral notes, peppercorns, white grapes, coriander spice, pears, apples, coconut hints, brettanomyces funk and candi sugar.

Flavors:
Old peaches, apricots, apples, plums, lychee, mango hints, citrus, vanilla, oak, bourbon, waffle cone, honey comb, coconut, brettanomyces, peppercorns, coconuts hints, apples, pears, coriander spice, white grapes, barnyard hay, good cheese hints, biscuit bread, butterscotch, floral notes, candi sugars, peach cobbler and hints of flan.

Aftertaste:
Peach cobbler, peppercorns, oak, citrus, musty white grapes and bourbon hints. No alcohol in the taste but a sipping beer. This one is quite refreshing despite the ABV.

Overall:
Very delicious and exceeding a little bit I must say. This one reminds me a lot of Curieux except tart fruit character as well as the stone fruit is more present than that souring aspect. A more closer to a Belgian Golden Ale than a sour. Of course, with the complexity of the bourbon barrels and brettanomyces and you really have a great beer. No sure why it is rated low in some instances but this one is off the chain!

Anime Corner:
Zone-Tan from the Zone Archive series was used in this pairing as I wanted to complement some of the colors of the label but also the fact that a wild streak is is something that has devious or violent tendencies. Despite her being nice and sweet, she holds in a lot of power and can be very unforgiving. The beer shows characteristics of being a sweet beer but it has some tart notes and just the bourbon character elevates it to some devious tendencies itself. Much like Zone-tan, Wild streak is a very delicious and sweet beer despite being a super utter sour.

Sources:
http://sarikyou.deviantart.com/art/Zone-Tan-Wallpaper-342124123

Death By Hops by Smog City brewing

June 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged city of torrance california, Death by Hops, DIPA, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, india pale ale, IPA, passion fruit, Ranma 1/2, Shampoo, Smog City, Smog City brewing, Torrance, Xian pu | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

Death By Hops by Smog City brewing is a 9.3% ABV Double India Pale Ale.

Released recently at the brewery exclusively, I wanted to pick up this beer to give it a review but mainly to get a growler as well. This is Smog City’s first Double IPA. I have reviewed El Segundo’s Tripple IPA from a growler before so I figured I give Smog’s DIPA a shot too as a lot of Smog City’s beers are awesome.

Aromas:
Dank grassy, floral, piney and grapefruit hops, citrus, dank garlicky, oniony, oily hop scents, biscuit bread, some tropical notes like, tangerine preserves, caramel, toffee, passion fruit, kiwi, prickly pear and berry notes.

Flavors:
Grassy, Grapefruit, floral, pine and herbal hop dankness, citrus, tangerine preserves, tropical notes like mango, kiwi, prickly pear, passion fruit, biscuit bread, garlic and onion dankness, caramel, toffee, berries and honey.

Aftertaste:
Lingering citrus with lots of piney hop goodness and dank hop resin. No alcohol in the taste. A sipping beer but very crisp and refreshing.

Overall:
A very good beer if you like your Double IPAs grassy and herbal with not overpowering tropics. Personally I enjoy more tropical IPAs but this one has enough to keep me interested so the flavors work really well here. It is also very damn fresh so the freshness really helps. The hops really resonate in all aspects of the beer. Worth stopping by again for another growler fill of this!

Anime Corner:
Shampoo from Ranma½ was used in this pairing since I got the crazy idea of linking Death by Hops to Death by Snu-Snu from the Futurama episode “Amazon Woman in the Mood”. In that episode, the main characters travel to a planet where it is ruled by Amazonian women and when they have men around, they kill them by snu-snu which is essentially having their pelvic regions crushed while having sex with these womanly giants. Shampoo, according to the Ranma show is actually an Amazonian woman herself. In the picture we see her almost looking like a giant looking down at the beer and the drinker. Meaning she will kill you!! Also, along with the second picture, when I meant to say she is a killer, well yes!! So if death by snu snu is related to Shampoo, then Shampoo killing is Death by Shampoo or Death by Hops!

Sources:
https://1-media-cdn.foolz.us/ffuuka/board/a/image/1335/86/1335864780033.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/289079

Tequila Barrel Aged Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

June 10, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 6th Anniversary Ale, anniversary ale, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, burnt sugar, Dark Cherries, Iron, Mari Illustrious, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Mezcal, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Old Ale, Sangria, Sucre, Sugar, Tequila, Tequila Barrel, Tequila Barrel Aged, Tequila Barrels, The Bruery, Vampiro | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Tequila Barrel Aged Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 15% ABV Old Ale aged in Tequila Barrels.

Label:
100% Ale aged in Tequila Barrels
This sturdy beer marks our sixth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (ratebeer.com)
Sucré is our sixth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain and then blended using the solera method.

A portion of each of our anniversary ales is saved in our barrels and blended in with the next year’s production, providing more complexity and depth of character that comes with aged. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, Sucré is a robust ale, surely the perfect beer to mark this major milestone.
___

They had to go there didn’t they?! A Tequila Barrel Aged variant of their Anniversary beer was released with extreme exclusivity to the Reserve and Hoarders Society. Tequila barrel aged beers is something that is not common. In fact it is not likely to happen again. When it comes to Tequila Barrel aged beers, I have only tried Cucapa’s Tequila Barrel Aged Barley Wine, Cigar City’s Murcielago, The Lost Abbey Agave Maria, Golden Road’s El Hefe Añejo, Mikkeler Mexas Ranger Tequila, and a small percentage of Firestone’s PNC which was included in their awesome Anniversary Ales. So as you can see, the struggle is real in terms of luck of getting to try these. So if you are lucky to get an exclusive bottle, good luck!

Aromas:
Sangria Vampiro, Mezcal hints, Tequila, Rich dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bananas, plantains, dark cherries, dark fruit plums, brown sugar, milk and dark chocolate, cinnamon, apples, peaches apricot, raspberry chambord, agave nectar, pilloncillo sugar cone, apples, peaches, apricot, wine grapes, pecan pie, marshmallow, toasted coconut, waffle cone, chocolate cake, molasses, whiskey notes, maple syrup, toffee, candi sugars, Lechugilla Juice, raisin bread pudding, rye, burn sugars, fruit cake, butterscotch, crème brulee, rum notes, clove spice, floral notes and aloe.

Flavors:
Dark Fruits like raisins, figs, Sangria Vampiro, Mezcal, Tequila, rich dulce de leche caramel, camote sweet potato, vanilla cinnamon, oak, bananas, plantains, clove spice, milk and dark chocolate apples, apricots, peaches, raspberry chambord, agave nectar, chocolate cake, pilloncillo sugar cone, whiskey notes, peaches, peach cobbler, pecan pie, French Vanilla pecan pie, Lechugilla, tamarind,molasses, maple syrup, raisin bread pudding, rye, burnt sugars, butterscotch, brown sugar, crème brulee, rum notes, clove spice, toasted coconut, fruit cake, aloe, floral notes, dark cherries, plums, hazelnut, molasses, maple syrup, toffee, Tamarindo tequila and wine grapes.

Aftertaste:
Chocolate, caramel, agave, mezcal, sangria hints, oak, vanilla, tequila and vanilla linger. A small amount of alcohol in the taste but mainly covered by the sweet sugar, smooth but sipping kind of beer. Quite dangerous like the other variants, so delicious with a full mouth beer.

Overall:
Exceptionally ridiculicious!! The notes of tequila help the Sucré differentiate itself from some of the other BBA Sucrés I have tried including those at the Bruery and the Tawny Porter. Like I said, Tequila Barrel aged beers are so far few and in between but everyone I have had so far I just love big time. This is no exception and makes me wish they made more Tequila Barrel Aged beers in the craft world. Bourbon Barrels are awesome in their own right but as we see more and more spirits variations, the use of them could make for an even greater variation of beer world complexity. This variant of Sucré is probably my favorite of all of them so far. The Sangria, Tequila and Tamarind notes really characterize Sucré into more of a spanish Azucar!! Definitely recommended no doubt if you can find this variant.

Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley Shikinami/Sohryu and Mari Illustrious from Evangelion were used in this pairing mainly because Mari I had originally chosen for the original Sucré. The addition of Asuka as opposed to what I had used in the Tawny Port Wine Barrel edition of Sucré where the port wine represented Mari unleashing a berserk mode, Asuka brought forth the Tequila and Agave Sugar. Long ago I did an Agave nectar Bruery beer called Cuádruple in which Asuka was the pairing. Asuka was used in the Bruery’s Fruet and I mentioned how Fruet was the price of a bottle of Patron Tequila. Yes, expensive indeed. So in relation how Mari’s Berserk mode meeting Asuka’s Tequila references, thus this pairing was born!! That and the fact that there is a lot of Asuka and Mari artwork for the new Eva 3.0, but that is besides the point!

Sources:
http://konachan.com/post/show?md5=3dc636e953de1fbdd580f4728afccf98
http://i6.minus.com/ibhc6SlHJ3mzrs.jpg

Couverteur by the Bruery

June 10, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Chocolate, Belgian Chocolates, Belgian Dubbel, cacao nibs, cherries, Couverteur, Dark Belgian Candi, Dark Cherries, Disgaea, Etna, milk Chocolate, Preservation Society, Seme De La Vita Tripel, The Bruery, tootsie pops, Tootsie Rolls, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5*
*NOTE: Please be advised that this beer was removed from production due to lactobasillicus found in the beer. This review rating was set at the time beer was fresh!

Couverteur by the Bruery is an 8% ABV Belgian Dubbel brewed with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
Couverteur is a Belgian-style dubbel that has been fermented with cacao nibs and vanilla beans adding a layer of chocolatey complexity to the malt rich ale. Couverteur is best enjoyed fresh. Please store in a cool, dry place. The ideal serving temperature is 50° F (7° C). Best served in a tulip or wine glass.
___

The name I believe is in reference to Belgian Chocolates, a type of Belgian Chocolate brand or something that is Coveted. I could not find much information on the name but this information I found definitely seems to find the description. As part of the preserve or reserve society too, this beer can be obtained from the Bruery’s online store. This would the be time to sign up if you want to try out this beer. A Belgian Dubbel with cacao nibs and vanilla? Starting to remind me of Seme De La Vita Tripel, except that one has pistachio and vanilla beans. Either way, let us see just how sweet this beer can be.

Aromas:
Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate Yoohoo, Milk chocolate powder, dark fruits like raisins and prunes, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, cherries, candi sugars, toffee, pecan pie, tootsie rolls, bananas, clove spice, biscuit bread, peanut butter, brown sugar and cinnamon.

Flavors:
Milk shake Chocolate, dark cherry, dark fruit raisins, prunes, vanilla, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow, cinnamon, peanut butter hints, dulce de leche caramel, candi sugar, pecan pie, toffee, tootsie rolls, bananas, clove spice, biscuit bread, brown sugar, nutmeg, all spice and wafflecone.

Aftertaste:
Chocolate Vanilla, caramel, dark fruit hints and biscuit bread with a somewhat dry finish. Easy to moderate drinkability, no alcohol in the taste and medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
Simply amazing!! Definitely getting that extra credit with the whole tasting closer to chocolate aspect as it goes. The Dubbel is there but the chocolate and vanilla does lend the extra hand to remind you that yes, this is a chocolate dubbel. The beer is very good and I have to say I like it because of the chocolate. If you do not like chocolate or at least more natural chocolate flavors, then this beer may not be the one for you and you want to try a different dubbel. For those that love chocolate and dubbels, this is a real treat!!

Anime Corner:
Etna from Disgaea makes a return into the beer pairings because I wanted to do something for her in terms of pairing her with a Bruery beer and also to the fact that she fits the bill in terms of the label and the overall sweetness of chocolate and vanilla that the beer has to offer. While the ABV is not over the top or super duper complex, it is still very rich for what it is and as the picture shows, Etna, quite like Couverteur explodes with rich flavors.

Sources:
http://cdn.myanimelist.net/images/characters/11/33671.jpg
http://s3-ak.bebo.com/image/4234498863a12957633498l.jpg

Brandy Barrel Bois (5th Anniversary ale) by The Bruery

June 10, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 5th anniversary ale, American Brandy, Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Barrel Aged Beer, best beers in the world, bois, brandy, Brandy Barrel Aged, Brandy Barrels, chocolate pecan pie, coton, cuir, Evengelion, fifth anniversary gift, Fruet, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Old Ale, Papier, raisin bread pudding, Rei, Rei Ayanami, robust ale, Solera, Solera method, The Bruery, wine grapes, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Brandy Barrel Bois (5th Anniversary ale) by The Bruery is a 15% ABV World Class Old Ale aged in Brandy Barrels.

Commercial Description:
The traditional fifth anniversary gift is something made of wood, or “Bois” in French.

Bois is our fifth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain and then blended using the solera method. A portion of each of our anniversary ales is saved in our barrels and blended in with the next year’s production, providing more complexity and depth of character that comes with age. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit,vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, Bois is a robust ale, surely the perfect beer to mark this major milestone.
—

This variant of the Bruery’s 5th anniversary beer has been sitting around for about a year aging. This variant is aged in Brandy barrels, the whole dynamics of the original Bois are either enlightened more or possibly stays just as delicious as when I first tried Bois last year. So here it is, Brandy Barrel aged Bois for your reading pleasure.

Here is the original review of the Bourbon Barrel one: (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/06/06/bois-5th-anniversary-by-the-bruery/)

Aromas:
Rich dark fruits, dates, bananas, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, pecan pie, cherry cordial, dark cherry ice cream, vanilla ice cream, Flan, crème brulee, Tres Leches, wine grapes, brandy, oak, apples, Leche Nestle sweetened condensed milk, toffee, marshmallows, brown sugar, raspberries, maple, molasses, sherry and port wine.

Flavors:
More dark fruit like prunes, raisins and figs forward than the original, brandy barrel, wine grapes, raspberries, cherry cordial chocolates, oak, apples, Tres Leches, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, toffee, coconut, macaroons, apples, dark cherry yogurt hints, flan, vanilla ice cream, dark cherry ice cream, crème brulee, wine grapes, port wine, sherry, molasses, brown sugar, maple syrup, leather, black berries and blueberries.

Aftertaste:
The Brandy with the wine like tangy notes linger along with the sweet caramel, flan, vanilla, dark cherry, coconut hints, and chocolate port linger for a little but dry up. No alcohol in the taste. Smooth yet sipping beer. Full to syrupy mouth feel.

Overall:
Simply outstanding!! Somehow, Brandy always something very amazing to beers that Bourbon does not. Each spirit barrel adds an additional component that really makes the beers vary. With Bois, it is like taking an already over the top beer and modifying it into new ways it was maybe never meant to go before. This one I got directly from the Bruery. If you go there, you should definitely get this one, I highly recommend it!!

Anime Corner:
Rei Ayanami was used in last year’s Bois and I brought Asuka Langley Sohryu Shikinami from the previous beer (Fruet) to represent the addition of the Brandy barrel to Bois. They are from Neon Genesis Evangelion. In this picture they sit holding each other like really close friends. They are both very powerful in the series. The addition of brandy adds more fruit to the beer, like in the Fruet represented by Asuka. Her colors also represent the Red Wax addition to Bois.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/1fkIfXE.jpg

2014 Grey Monday by the Bruery

June 9, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, Chocolate Nirvana, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, french vanilla ice cream, Grey Monday, Hazelnut Nectar, Imperial Stout, Kutchiki Rukia, Maple Syrup, molecular gastronomy, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut, roasted hazelnuts, Rukia, The Bruery, world beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2014 Grey Monday by the Bruery is an 18.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Hazelnuts.

Label:
JUST ONE SHADE
Originally brewed for a molecular gastronomy dinner at Beachwood BBQ, this decadent version of Black Tuesday is brewed with Oregon grown, roasted hazelnuts.

Grey Monday is just the beer you need to kickstart your week and is meant for sharing with family and friends in your time of need. It 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.
___

So we meet again, the once lost Grey Monday which I had tried in 2012 and now I was able to get a Reserve bottle in 2014 from the Bruery. That is the only place you can get this unless you do a trade. Along the lines of Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain, White Chocolate, Wineification/Mardi Rouge, Mocha Wednesday, Melange 3 and many more, Grey Monday stands in one of the highest categories of beers that I have ever tried. It is very ridiculously delicious just like all the variants before it. Before I continue to review this great beer once again, I may be biased as I already know it is a great beer and definitely one that is highly recommended. Cheers!

Aromas:
Very Rich Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, pralines, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut nectar, Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, dark cherries, flan, bourbon, maple syrup, honey, chocolate cheesecake, toffee, vanilla, oak, crème brulee, french vanilla ice cream, toasted walnuts, macadamia nuts, cashew, nutella, marshmallows, toasted coconut, brown sugar, cinnamon toast, bananas, anise, smores, rocky road ice cream and more.

Flavors:
Rich Hazelnut nectar and chocolate on grilled bananas with flan, pecan pie, pralines, maple syrup, honey, chocolate cheesecake, toffee, dark cherries, strawberry, peach, dark fruit raisins, plums, anise, currants, chocolate port wine notes, almond joy, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, chocolate chip cookie dough, toasted coconut, marshmallow and graham cracker smores, cinnamon toast, anise, brown sugar, chocolate milk shake, fudge cake, and mocha, all with some scoops of french vanilla ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Rich hazelnut nectar, oak, vanilla, bourbon, chocolate, pecan pie, cherry, flan, maple and caramel just linger and linger infinitely. So Good that you will take your time with it or at least try to. The alcohol is quickly masked by the complex flavors that you don’t even taste it. This is very dangerous too as it is a very very smooth but sipping beer with a silky and syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
No surprise here, my expectations were met and the extra credit chart went through the roof. I knew this was gonna be just as good as when I first tried. I have no idea how the Bruery does it. They are crazy to make these beers so delicious. They surely defy and truly show just how far a beer can go. Were talking past the liquor and wine category, has evolved into what it was meant to be. I sincerely hope you can try this beer or any of the other Bruery beers like Black Tuesday.

Anime Corner:
Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach in her prestigious and beautiful Bankai form awaits the light of the new Monday, the Grey Monday. She is on the horizon displaying her new power and rightfully so as her character has gone through many many struggles. Throughout the entire series, she is second to the protagonist and while yes this may be a spoiler for many, she does make it. She achieves a form that takes her to new heights of existence. Rightfully so, as powerful in ABV as this beer is, it is also sweet, just like sweet little Rukia. Rukia, just like Grey Monday, evolve into great heights of where only few beers can take people. The sweet nectar of gods like this can only be bestowed on the few, like Rukia who trained with gods, literally, she now holds her own against the final threats of the series. As the series comes closer and closer to the end, this new form will unleash its fury of absolute 0 degrees Kelvin. Only the next day that comes can melt the ice and melt one’s heart as they try this beer.

Sources:
http://stingcunha.deviantart.com/art/Bleach-570-Rukia-s-Bankai-436885263
http://www.zerochan.net/1681342

Calabaza Boreal collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Anchorage Brewing

June 6, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, Anchorage, Anchorage Brewing, Bleach, Calabaza Boreal, Collaboration Beer, Farmhouse Ale, grapefruit juice, Ichigo Kurosaki, jolly pumpkin, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, oak barrels, Saison, sour dough bread | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

Calabaza Boreal collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Anchorage Brewing is a 7.2% ABV Saison/Farmhouse Ale brewed with grapefruit peel, grapefruit juice and peppercorns all while aged in Oak Barrels.

Label:
He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you. -Nietzsche.

When introspection fails, it’s time to look outward for inspiration, perhaps Northward! One of the people who inspired me this past year is my friend Gabe Fletcher, of Anchorage Brewing Co, We brewed this beer together. I hope it inspires you Northward!

Warm Regards,
RON
___

Ahh sweet sweet Sour Jolly Pumpkin beers. I haven’t had one of these in a while, except for the recent Los Vivos y Los Muertos. Yet, to think that they would do a collaboration with Alaska’s finest in Sour beers, was an awesome treat. This beer is Jolly Pumpkin’s version. Anchorage also released or will release theirs soon. So let’s check this out to see if it is awesome.

Aromas:
Funky citrus, old oranges, grapefruit, flowers, hibiscus, brettanomyces, tangerines, stone fruit like peaches, plums, apricots, sour notes, wine grapes, lemon peel, peppercorns, honey, caramel, oak, vanilla, sour dough bread, brown sugar, waffle cone and mushrooms.

Flavors:
Definitely grapefruit juices and peels, stone fruits like peaches, apricot, plums, sour funk, wine grapes, peppercorns, coriander spice, citrus, sour dough bread, vanilla, oak, caramel, flowers, lavender, lemon peels, hibiscus, waffle cone, honey, pineapple, sage, mango and farmhouse wet hay.

Aftertaste:
Sweet and Tangy with sour mainly coming grapefruit and some of the brettanomyces. Lemon, oak, vanilla, coriander, peach and grapefruit linger. No alcohol in the taste. A sipping beer but actually refreshing and crisp at some points. Full mouth feel too.

Overall:
Very good saison with lots of sour aspects coming from the fruits and spices used in the beer. I am not sure if Brettanomyces was used in this but it feels like some may have been used. Either that with the fermentation of the oak barrel adding a bit of sourness it. It is strange as this is not a sour beer in the sense of what makes a sour beer sour, but a fruit tangy sour. This is why Jolly Pumpkin and Anchorage are perfect in their craft, especially JP since that is all the types of beers they brew. Sours and Saisons with lots of Calabaza Magia! Highly recommended for sure!

Anime Corner:
Neliel Tu Oderschvank from Bleach was chosen for this beer pairing because I wanted to show case not only the colors of the beer with her bu also the label and the anthropomorphic being with the antlers. While Nel is more like a goat, it falls along with the whole monster hybrid they were going for. Although, Nel is not a monster, but an Arrancar and a sweet innocent yet powerful Arrancar. She cares very much for her friends and Ichigo, the orange haired protagonist of the series. Gee look at that, there is an orange pumpkin there. LOL nice touch to the pairing for sure.

Sources:
http://chibisofa.deviantart.com/art/Neliel-206842148
http://khima.deviantart.com/art/Neliel-Tu-Oderschvank-108436195
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2011-10-06-442998.png

Stochasticity Project QUADROTRITICALE by Stone Brewing

June 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Chocolate, Belgian Quadrupel, grains, QUADROTRITICALE, rye bread, Star Trek, star trek the next generation, Stochasticity Project, Stone Brewing, Stone Stochasticity, Triticale, triticale grain | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.2/5

Stochasticity Project QUADROTRITICALE by Stone Brewing is a 9.3% ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with triticale grain.

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.

Stone Stochasticity Project QUADROTRITICALE
Trappist ales as we know them have a proud lineage dating back nearly a century. Rather than follow the footsteps of the monks who forged the quadrupel—the warmest and darkest of monastery offerings—we aimed to test its inherent makeup. In doing so, we added triticale, a hybrid grain combining the pleasant flavor of wheat with the elemental durability and spice of rye, to breathe new life into the malt bill. Because of this, this reimagined brew comes across differently than its classic Belgian predecessors, and beautifully so. Lower in sweetness, but rich with flavors mirroring dried fruit, it’s a modern interpretation of one of the most historically sacred styles on Earth.

Malt Varieties – Pilsner Malt & Flaked Triticale
Belgian Yeast – Ardennes Strain
Special Ingredients – Dark Candi Sugar
___

A Stone Quadruple?! YES PLEASE!! I never say no to my quads, on of my favorite styles of Belgian beers. This guy I picked up at Ramirez Liquors on Olympic Blvd near Downtown in East LA. Something tells me I really will enjoy this. I am not sure If I have had a Quad with Triticale, but let’s see how this one goes. Now I have never had this grain, at least to my knowledge but it was something that was used in Stone Vertical Epic 10.10.10. A fun note for the Star Trek fans was that quadrotriticale was the name of a 4 leaf clover hybrid grain composing of wheat and rye which was used in the episode “The Trouble with Tribbles” and also had a blueish color. This one you can definitely get as it will see national distribution. So yeah, come get this one and cheers!

Aromas:
Bananas, Clove spice, bubble gum, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, figs, dates, rye bread, herbal notes, peppercorns, molasses, papaya, dark cherries, Belgian chocolate, candi sugars, brown sugar, coriander, anise, nutmeg and kiwis.

Flavors:
Rich Bananas and dulce de leche caramel, rye bread, notes of Belgian yeast phenolics, Dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, raisin bread pudding, grapes, dark cherries, Belgian chocolate, brown sugar, candi sugars, peppercorns, tropical fruits like papaya, kiwis, persimmon and dragon fruit notes, molasses, anise notes, coriander spice, blackberry preserves on rye and hints of port wine.

Aftertaste:
Belgian phenolic bananas, cherries, peppercorns, dragon fruit, rye bread, raisins and dulce de leche caramel linger for a little bit but then ends kind of dry. No alcohol in the taste. A moderate drinkability beer with full mouthfeel even if the beer is dark but clear. There is also a smooth component to it which makes it drinkable too.

Overall:
A damn great beer that I enjoyed more than expected. It is a quad with a variety of flavors and more fruitier than caramel based really which is pretty awesome. It ain’t no Forgotten Island but it is definitely a delicious little quad and dangerous too. I can definitely drink several of these but it would be bad as I would get wasted. I think the beer may age despite the clearness and really the ABV will make it so. This beer also reminds me of the Dogfish Head Sah Tea too, interesting. Highly recommended especially since it will be distributed to all Stone chains, you have no excuse not to try this one!

Anime Corner:
Original Artwork by NKMR8 or Nakamura Eight was used in this pairing for several reasons. I wanted to capture the bad assness of a quad beer as well as the fact that some of the Stone beers I have paired, especially Arrogant Bastard, have been bad ass Samurai, Ninjas or Demons of sort. A quad by Stone is something I have never tried before so I really wanted to pair with something that would pair with the fruit flavors, the colors of Star Trek’s Quadrotriticale and the overall badassness this beer brings. The aspect of the Abbeys and Trappist may not be very visible at first but just like when I did Stickee Monkee, honor and commitment is part of what monks do. The Samurai follows the code of Bushido and are very honorable members of society. While their ideas of the spiritual beliefs may differ from other monks, the Samurai meditates as well and prays to serve society.

Source:
http://static.zerochan.net/NkmR8.full.1420609.jpg

Collective Distortion IPA collaboration by Kyle Hollingsworth, Keri Kelli & Stone Brewing

June 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Collaboration Beer, Collective Ditstortion, Coriander, Double India Pale Ale, Elderberries, Hatsune Miku, india pale ale, IPA, Kagamine Rin \ Len, Keri Kelli, Kyle Hollingsworth, Luka Megurine, Stone Brewing, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Collective Distortion IPA collaboration by Kyle Hollingsworth, Keri Kelli & Stone Brewing is a 9.3% ABV Double India Pale Ale brewed with Elderberries and Coriander.

Label:
In bringing together artisans from disparate aural planes, one might expect an offbeat, feedback-warped cacophony, shrill to the point of unlistenable. Yet, by inviting Kyle Hollingsworth, keyboardist for eclectic, jam-prone sextet, The String Cheese Incident, and Keri Kelli, wailing rock guitarist of Alice Cooper fame, we were able to make truly beautiful music. Turns out, these musicians have a great deal in common, both with each other and with Stone. We all enjoy turning things up to 11, and that is represented in this collaborative offering, an imperial India pale ale ably backed by Nugget, Comet and Calypso hops, and amplified care of a healthy dry-hopping with Vic’s Secret, a new Australian hop, adding citrus and tropical fruit oomph. To give this modern masterpiece some soulful, classic character, we traced the roots of brewing to the days when Old World herbs were used to spice beers, adding in coriander and, a first for us, elderberries. To stand up to that sumptuous spice and blaring bitterness, we added golden naked oats, which are lightly roasted and add body and enhanced mouthfeel to the brew like a steady, unbreakable backbeat to an incendiary jam solo. Sit back, crank the volume and get lost in this operatic incarnation of genres combined in the name of invention.

“Both in music and in brewing one has to take risks to reap great rewards, and with this beer w brought both worlds together to create a tour de force”
Kyle Hollingsworth // Keyboardist & Homebrewer

“When people try this beer, I want them to really get that hop hit and have it be something powerful for them.”
Keri Kelli // Lead Guitarist & Publican

“This beer rocks, just like Kyle and Keri. Great music and great beer-it doesn’t get any better than this!”
Mitch Steele // Rhythm Guitarist & Stone Brewmaster
___

Got this one at Total Wine in Redondo Beach. Following Suede, this is the next up in the list of many collaboration beers. I really did not plan to pick this one up but while I was at the store, I said to myself, oh well. Let us see what this brings forth. So I said fuck it, let’s get a review going. Let’s see how this one fairs. There is a lot of rock inspiration that went into this one for sure.

Aromas:
Grassy, Piney, grapefruit hops, along with grapes, citrus, elderberries, mango, pineapple, kiwi, lychee, apricot, dragon fruit, toffee, caramel, lemon zest, coriander spice, tangerine and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Grapefruit, grassy, floral, herbal and citrus hops, dank garlic, onion notes, grape, elderberries, cranberries, caramel, biscuit bread, toffee, tangerine, coriander spice, cherries, flowers, pineapple, mango, kiwi, lychee, dragon fruit, honey, apricot, toasted rye bread, flowers and oatmeal notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with a berry, herbal and dank bitter aftertaste. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with a medium mouth feel. Refreshing and crisp.

Overall:
This beer is very delicious. The IPA herbal hops shine at the colder temperatures while sweet berry nectar and tropical punch flavors come out as it warms up. Definitely a beer with great transition of flavors as it goes along. I like berry beers and IPAs. This balance of flavors works together well. If it was up to me, I would add more berries but that is just me and my sweet tooth beer talk lol!

Anime Corner:
Using the Hatsune Miku crew(vocaloids Rin Kagamine, Hatsune Miku, Len Kagamine and Megurine Luka) was definitely good to show case a musical collaborative between rock stars and home brewers and basically something that pairs well with the whole rock aspect. This beer is also fruity so I wanted to show some of the colors of the fruit flavors from the beer. This is what I got and plainly, it was awesome! What do you guys think of this one?

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2013-10-04-610123.jpeg

Traquair House Ale by Traquair House Brewery

June 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Hatsune Miku, Oak Aged Ale, Oldest House In Scotland, Scotch Ale, Scotland, Scottish Ale, Traquair House, Traquair House Ale, Traquair House Brewery, vocaloid, Wee Heavy | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Traquair House Ale by Traquair House Brewery is a 7.2% ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy fermented in oak barrels.

Label:
A handmade Ale Brewed in the ancient Brew House of the Oldest inhabited House in Scotland.

Traquair House Ale is a traditional Scotch ale or “Wee Heavy”, produced at the tiny Traquair House Brewery, located in the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. Brewed in 1783 copper kettle and fermented in oak vessels, it is a rich, complex and deep with firm but elegant flavor. Brewed by Traquair House, Innerleithen Peeblesshire, Scotland. Best before June 2018.
___

This is a beer I had way back in the beginning when I first started trying craft beers. I had this in 2011 after I did beer tasting with my friend Chino. I decided to pick this up to see how my palette has evolved and to give tribute an old ale made in the oldest house in Scotland.

Aromas:
Dark fruit plums, raisins, smoked peat, caramel, molasses, grains, oak, old leather, tobacco, funky notes, licorice, apples, anise, vanilla, brown sugar, dark chocolate and sour dough bread.

Flavors:
Dark Fruit raisins, plums, molasses, anise, funky oak notes, anise, vanilla, old leather, earthy notes, grains, toffee, clove spice, bubble gum, licorice, apples, brown sugar, floral notes, dark chocolate, and toasted sour dough bread.

Aftertaste:
Earthy notes, smoked peat, raisin hints and mild caramel. No alcohol in the taste. Full mouth feel and moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer that is not overwhelming or offensive. In fact, those that do not drink craft beer may find this one to be a little heavy. For me, it had some nice flavors but nothing super complex. Still kept me interested for sure and the oaky funky notes is definitely something you don’t see in many beers. A great example of its style. A really nice touch and a definite try for all wee heavy fans out there.

Anime Corner:
Hatsune Miku was used in this pairing since I wanted to show something awesome in relation to the old house and classical times. The red flowing dress represents a floral and funky character that was given by the beer. Yes, she is wearing the fermentation process and dancing. Pretty damn fancy. Anyways, I couldn’t think of anything else aside from the fact that it has some Scottish colors too.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/182922-1920×1080-vocaloid-cantarella+%28vocaloid%29-hatsune+miku-kagamine+rin-kagamine+len-kaito.jpg

Habanero Sculpin by Ballast Point

June 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Ballast Point, Chile beer, Habanero Peppers, Habanero Sculpin, india pale ale, IPA, Kill-LA-Kill, Kushina, Naruto, Ragyo Kyurin, Red Hot-Blooded Habanero, Sculpin, Sculpin fish, Sculpin IPA, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Habanero Sculpin by Ballast Point is a 7% ABV World Class India Pale Ale brewed with Habanero Peppers

Description: (http://www.ballastpoint.com/beer/sculpin-with-habanero/)
Our popular IPA, with a punch of heat.
Our Sculpin IPA is a great example of what got us into brewing in the first place. After years of experimenting, we knew hopping an ale at five separate stages would produce something special. The result ended up being this gold-medal winning IPA, whose inspired use of hops creates hints of apricot, peach, mango and lemon flavors, but still packs a bit of a sting, just like a Sculpin fish.
___

Ballast Point finally decided to get this beer out to the masses. I have had this beer plenty of times before and let me put it this way, I can already tell you that this one is HOT!! So basically, if you don’t like heat driven beers, or chile in general, there is a high chance you will not like this. So yes, this is a chili head type of beer basically. However, it is not just a pure heat beer, it definitely has a great amount of complexity provided by the original sculpin.

Aromas:
Grapefruit, grassy, floral and piney hops with habanero chile pepper in the aromas. Yes, that means this ones hot, A warning. The aromas follow up with mango, papaya, dragon fruit, citrus, apricot, peach, caramel, biscuit bread, cucumber, hibiscus, tangerine, bell pepper, pineapple and honey.

Flavors:
Forward Habanero heat but the flavors of the sculpin IPA pull through. Caramel, biscuit bread, honey, cantaloupe, cucumber, flowers, grapefruit, pine resin, grassy hops, tangerine, mango, citrus, papaya, dragon fruit, apricot, peach , passion fruit, candied mandarin orange and mild rye.

Aftertaste:
He searing heat keeps on burning but dissipates unlike crime and punishment from stone. Caramel, pineapple, grassy and grapefruit hops linger. No alcohol in the taste but while this is crisp and refreshing, it is a highly sipping beer.

Overall:
Great Beer if you love IPAs and chile beers. The heat varies in each bottle and in this case, these are fucking HOT!!. I really had to take my time with this one. The heat dissipates as the beer gets warmer since I believe the sweet tropical fruits kind of mellow some of the heat. Highly recommended if you love chile beers or chile in general. This is best paired with something to eat as drinking this on an empty stomach….well… lets just say I warned you. If you like regular Sculpin, this is good to try but like I said, stick to regular sculpin if you don’t like the heat.

Anime Corner:
This one’s one mother of a beer. Like the previous Sculpin which I did with Terese Rose, it represents a delicate flower like the fish. But test it out, you will find that this flower is deadly!! Ragyo Kyuruin from Kill La Kill and Kushina “Bloody Habaneo” Uzumaki from Naruto are the mothers of the main characters, Ryuko Matoi and Satsuki Kyuruin and Naruto Uzumaki respectively but different series. Ragyo’s colors represent the tropics and beauty that is brought forth in this tropical IPA but she also brings death and destruction which is represented by the heat. Kushina is very kind and sweet but when she gets mad, she unleashes all hell, hence why they gave her the nickname, “Bloody Habanero”. I can’t stress how awesome, beautiful but deadly this beer is. Patience is key!

Sources:
http://cs618417.vk.me/v618417231/4b17/8QEd1B3jW_w.jpg
http://31.media.tumblr.com/844e72c621c85d99eecc19a625b2becb/tumblr_n21s1uKGtm1rxojvro2_1280.jpg
http://static.tumblr.com/5896fa2eabf96eadc51f04bf373d8ef1/qgfktsz/YrTn1sh3u/tumblr_static_c45290ab1faddebe43e90c5ac766676b.pnghttp://fc05.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2012/223/5/9/kushina_uzumaki__childhood__by_shinoharaa-d5as14l.png

Proprietor’s Vintage 2014 Stickee Monkee by Firestone Walker Brewing

June 4, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Quadrupel, Black Tuesday, Capcom, Central Coast Quad, Firestone Walker, Goku, Journey to the West, Marvel Vs. Capcom, Monkey King, proprietor's reserve, Son Goku, Son-Son, SonSon III, Stickee Monkee, Sun Wukong, Trappist beer, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Proprietor’s Vintage 2014 Stickee Monkee by Firestone Walker Brewing is a 13.4% ABV World Class Central Coast Belgian Quadrupel aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Since founding our brewery in 1996, we have specialized in the rare art of brewing beer in oak barrels. In the fall of 2006, we embarked on a program to barrel age a series of vintage strong ales that would later be used as components of a blended beer. That blend would become our first Anniversary Ale, “10”.

After the release of “10”, we released limited amounts of the component beers on draft only. Many of these beers gained a cult following that craft beer fans raved about and begged for us to put in bottle. Stickee Monkee was one of these beers.

We present the 2014 vintage of Stickee Monkee, a barrel-aged Quad. It has been said that the only constant is change and the same is true for barrel-aged Quad evolves and shows a different face each year; a result of time spent aging in the barrel.

Turbinado brown sugar from Mexico adds wonderful molasses flavors that are reminiscent of Belgian candi sugar. It has a full body and lush texture with battle expression all over; toasted oak, coconut, leather and rich cigar tobacco.

This Central Coast Quad is a one-of-a-kind sipping beer built to last and will reward careful aging for years to come.
___

This is very damn special. So special along side some of the best in the world so far. This beer was so coveted that I barely was able to get a bottle for myself. Initially sold at the Firestone Brewery, it saw a very limited distribution. I really wanted to bring this forward for a review here at the site and lucky for me, my chance was answered. If you seek this beer, you may have to trade.

Aromas:
DAMN! Smells like Black Tuesday. This isn’t an imperial stout but damn it has so much complexity going on here. Dulce de leche, grilled bananas with Irish cream, vanilla, oak, coconut, flan, almond joy chocolate, marshmallows, bourbon, pecan pie, hazelnuts, maple syrup, bourbon, molasses, pilloncillo sugar cone, dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, maple syrup, milk, dark and Belgium chocolates, waffle cone and raisin bread pudding.

Flavors:
Brown Sugar Grilled Bananas with pilloncillo sugar cone, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bourbon, toasted coconut, French Vanilla ice cream, oreo cookies and cream, flan, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallow smores, maple syrup, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, black berries, currants, port wine, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark cherries, currants, maple syrup, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgium chocolate, candi sugars, waffle cone, clove spice, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, choco flan, molasses, tobacco, leather, Trappist Belgian yeast, grape nuts, peaches and cream.

Aftertaste:
Caramelized Bananas, chocolate, vanilla, bourbon, dark fruit raisin pudding and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste, Unbelievably smooth, syrupy mouth feel and extremely dangerous. This is one of those beers that you want to be careful as you can probably finish the whole bottle in one sitting which is not recommended. Take you time with this one.

Overall:
This beer was a fucking mind blow. There is a reason this is a key player in the anniversary ales they release every year. Each year the recipe is different and each one just pushing the edges of what I can give as extra credit. This might truly be the best quad I have ever had, yes even in lines with the Westvleteren. Also the strongest quadruple at 13.4% ABV except for the Agave Maria at 13.5% ABV and Forgotten Island at 15% ABV. Each one is just unique in its own way. I really love this one for reminding me so much of Black Tuesday or Bourbon County but it is a quadruple and its flavor profile really shows.

Anime Corner:
SonSon III was chosen for this pairing for the fact that she is a monkey but she is also a Buddhist Monk. As it applies to the monks in Belgium, those characteristics about her are what worked well in my mind, hence why I chose her. The peaches and cream aspect fit as well as she represents what is sweet about this beer. Her origin is that of the monk Son Goku or Sun Wukong or the Monkey King. She is inspired by the Chinese classical novel of Journey to the West. Her grandfather was the original SonSon. Her power comes of the that of the martial arts and the is Ki attacks. Yes, this beer is very powerful and she makes a great representative. Can you come up with any nice aspects from this pairing?

Source:
http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080319020048/marvelvscapcom/images/b/bf/Sonson-big-mvc2.jpg
http://johnjoseco.deviantart.com/art/Monkeys-and-Peaches-395292236

The Devil Within DIPA by Iron Fire

June 4, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Double Imperial Pale Ale, Double IPA, dragon fruit, IPA, Iron Fire, passion fruit, stone fruit, stone fruit flavors, The Devil Within DIPA, tropical fruits | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

The Devil Within DIPA by Iron Fire is a 9.5% ABV Double India Pale Ale.

Label:
ALES FOR OUTLAWS
Upon first quaff, Devilish amounts of hops assault you with citrus and stone fruit flavors and aroma. Add in just the right amount of malt to bring this beast of a DIPA to 9.5% alcohol by volume and what you get is an ale that is sure to bring out the demon in any outlaw. Be sure to call your exorcist before imbibing, for the devil within will soon become the devil without.
___

My friend Aaron told me about picking this beer up for a beer trade. I got him one but I figured, what the hell, I will give it a try to see watsup too so I got an extra bottle. This beer is pretty new and it seems to be holding its own among some of the great IPA and DIPAs in the world. Let’s see just how much this bad ass of a beer really is.

Aromas:
Lots of tropical fruits, mango, papaya, pineapple, dragon fruit, kiwi, passion fruit, prickly pear, tangerine, oranges, grassy, piney and grapefruit hops, honey dew melon, caramel, biscuit bread, stone fruit like apricot, peaches, lychee, tangerine marmalade, lemon zest, floral notes and toffee.

Flavors:
Definitely a rush of tropics, mango, papaya, pineapple, stone fruit lychees, apricot, plum notes, peach, dragon fruit, kiwis, prickly pear, caramel, toffee, biscuit bread, gummy bears, tangerine marmalade, oranges, honey dew melon, cantaloupe and guava.

Aftertaste:
Hoppy Bitterness in the finish with lots of tropical fruits lingering, caramel, grapefruit, honey dew melon and biscuit bread. No alcohol in the taste, a medium to sipping beer. It is very refreshing and crisp with a medium mouthfeel.

Overall:
A perfect IPA with the best representation of it’s style. Pin pointing a difference from other delicious IPAs is a difficult task but since I like tropical IPAs, just expect this one to be more tropical than grassy, malty or dank like some other IPAs go. So definitely highly recommended if tropical IPAs. This one is great!

Anime Corner:
Original character from Yone Kazuki, Dark Summoner by Masamune Shirow, and original character from Himoto Onoki were used in this pairing to pair with the label showing the skeleton and the devil . Mainly showing the devil within as how even as you have good in you you also have the other half which can do evil. So this beer aspires to unleash holy hell and a demon within but for me, this bitter sweet collision is one that is mainly one of balance. A lot of sweet tropical aspects along with bitter hoppy finish.

Source:
http://konachan.com/post/show/149656
http://www.a-tm.co.jp/news/service/2013/05/01dark_gw.html
http://www.zerochan.net/570333

Modern Romance by Midnight Sun brewing

June 3, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Anko, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, cacao beans, Chile beer, chili pepper, Cinnamon, cocoa, dark chocolate, Hinata, Karin, Konan, Kurenai, midnight sun brewing, Modern Romance, Naruto, sakura Haruno, Temari Sabakuno, Ten Ten, Tsunade, Yamanaka ino | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/5

Modern Romance by Midnight Sun brewing is a 9.3% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with cacao nibs, cocoa powder, cinnamon, chilies and maca and aged with cocoa powder

Label:
Raw cacao powder and roasted cacao nibs add an earthy element. But every romance needs some spark. Modern Dwellers’ signature Mayan Spice blend provides sultry, lingering heat that seduces the sweetness of the malts. It’s not for everyone but, for some, there is nothing else.

In an exciting collaboration, Midnight Sun and Modern Dwellers Chocolate Lounge—a local artisan chocolatier—designed and brewed a very special dark ale that celebrates our strengths—and weaknesses: sensuous chocolate, warm spice, fiery chili, provocative character and amorous mood.
___

Obtained this guy at craftbeerkings.com, I wanted to give it a shot especially since I love chocolate beers. I heard this one was a Belgian style strong dark ale with chocolate and chile. Oh hell yes! I had to try it. So here it is, the review for your enjoyment and let us see if this beer holds it’s weight as a good chocolate beer.

Aromas:
Strong Milk chocolate shake, cocoa powder, dark chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mocha coffee, nutmeg, dark fruit prunes, subtle to hints chili pepper, chocolate abuelita brick,molasses, toffee, and currants.

Flavors:
Very dark chocolate, chocolate abuelita brick, milk chocolate powder, mocha coffee, dulce de leche caramel, raisins, prunes, vanilla, subtle chili pepper, cinnamon, ginger spice, nutmeg, subtle chile spices, currants, toffee, molasses, anise, Mexican mole sauce, oak, port wine, cherries, fudge cake, all spice and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:
Chili pepper mainly in the finish but not super hot. Mainly cocoa powder, dark fruit, molasses, earthy notes, . No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with full and somewhat syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
I gave this one a good amount extra credit since I love chocolate beers and the fact that this one definitely whops a lot of chocolate and is pretty balanced and not overly sweet. The Belgian aspect falls into perspective only a little bit drinking more like a Belgian Stout than a Dark Belgian Strong ale. The cocoa powder takes away the majority of the heat that would have been there even if you can tell this is a chile beer. Not the above best of all of my favorite chocolate beers but it definitely is up there and very delicious. Something definitely worth trying. It is pretty sensual.

Anime Corner:
Naruto himself and his harem of girls that come out in the series were used in this pairing. Pretty much, all the main ones. These fan arts were made by uzmakiee-naruto and StikyfinkaZ-003 of DeviantArt.com. In an attempt to pair with the label used in this beer and something that comes to mind of this beer’s flavor if a wet dream, was the main reason why I thought this pairing would work fantastically. Awesome stuff!

Sources:
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Gift-For-The-Main-Character-162738736
http://uzmakiee-naruto.deviantart.com/art/Naruto-600-1653189-438992671

Luchador En Fuego by Clown Shoes

June 3, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged ancho chile, anniversary ale, Blaze Blue, bourbon barrels, chipotle chile, chocolate abuelita, Chocolate Sombrero, Clown Shoes Brewing, El-Hazard, flan, Imperial Stout, Luchador en Fuego, Mexican Chocolate Stout, milk Chocolate, raisin bread pudding, Shayla-Shayla, Taokaka, Third Anniversary ale, vanilla, Wild Turkey bourbon barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.7/5

Luchador En Fuego by Clown Shoes is an 11% ABV Mexican Chocolate Imperial Stout brewed with ancho and chipotle chiles, spices, vanilla and aged in Heaven Hills and Wild Turkey bourbon barrels.

Label:
Spiced with vanilla, cinnamon, ancho and chipotle peppers, then aged 100% in Bourbon Barrels, this beer wants to leap onto your palate like a luchador who dives into the ring from atop the highest rope.
___

Here is the original review I did for this beer: (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/04/09/third-anniversary-ale-luchador-en-fuego-by-clown-shoes-brewing/) Back then, this beer was their third anniversary beer and was re-released again due to the great demand. This beer is essentially their Chocolate Sombrero aged in bourbon barrels with chile peppers.

Aromas:
Dark chocolate abuelita bricks in milk, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Vanilla ice cream, cherry, oak, subtle ancho and chipotle chiles, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, flan, chocolate abuelita, pilloncillo sugar cone, bananas, champurrado hints, mole, coconut, waffle cone, marshmallow smores, hazelnut, leche nestle, crème brulee and capirotada raisin bread pudding.

Flavors:
Dark and milk Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, vanilla, flan, bourbon, oak, coconut, marshmallow smores, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, ancho and chipotle subtle pepper heat, bananas, dulce de leche caramel, leche nestle, mole, pecan pie, cinnamon, champurrado, capirotada raisin bread, dark chocolate raisins, prunes, pilloncillo sugar cone, hazelnut, crème brulee and coffee.

Aftertaste:
Chocolate, champurrado, flan, coffee, bourbon vanilla, cinnamon, oak and bananas. Subtle alcohol but its the variety that helps qualm the heat. A sipping beer with a velvet and silky mouthfeel.

Overall:
Very exceptional beer and one that is still very delicious. Taking the Chocolate Sombrero and amping it up to the next level makes this one very coveted. Highly recommended and very enjoyable. The best part, is that this will most likely be released yearly which is awesome as it will not be a limited released. This is one of those beers that when it comes to barrel aging, it really brings out some of the Mexican desserts that I really like. Awesome stuff.

Anime Corner:
Shayla Shayla from El Hazard and Taokaka from Blaze Blue are used in this beer pairing as I used them in the last time I did the review for this beer. I haven’t really broke it down why I chose them Taokaka was used for chocolate sombrero because I wanted something that would pair with some of the colors and the hidden aspect of the Chocolate sombrero dude with the mask. In this case, Taokaka’s hoodie was the sombrero and the fact that you can’t see her face is the mask. Now Shayla Shayla in the previous review had painting on her face similar to a mask and her colors paired very well with the colors. To put the icing on the cake, I found the Shayla Shayla one where she is surrounded by fire completing the Luchador en Fuego or Wrestler on Fire aspect. Taokaka represents the deadly aspect of how far and strong the Luchador is.

Mogli by Caldera Brewing

May 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, bakers chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Cacao Chocolate Porter, Caldera brewing, Candi Sugars, Chocolate, Chocolate Porter, Imperial Porter, Mogli, oak barrels, White Chocolate, World class, World Class Imperial Porter | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Mogli by Caldera Brewing is an 8.5% ABV World Class Imperial Porter Aged in Oak Barrels with Chocolate.

Label:
Caldera’s “Mogli” was inspired by the loss of a dear friend. This is a chocolate, oak-aged Imperial Porter. Mogli is complex, sweet, chocolatey, big and full of unconditional love! Sit, Stay, roll over, cookies? Malt beverage brewed with natural flavor. If ever in Ashland, Oregon, come by and check out the Caldera Tap House. Located 31 Water Street.

Served in a 10 ounce wine glass. Malts: Premium Two Row, Crystal, Munich, Brown, Pale Chocolate, Chocolate, Dark Belgian Candi Sugar, Natural Chocolate, Bourbon-Soaked Oak Spirals; Hops: Galena, Willamette; ABV: 8.5%, IBU: 55, SRM: 55.0
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From the Caldera Kettle Series ~ Limited Small Batch Release, Mogli is a beer I have been passing up for the longest time. I guess it wasn’t until recently when I read the label that this beer was made for the loss of one of the brewer’s pet that I was like awe man, this is cute. I definitely had to try it. Now, without further ado, here is Mogli!

Aromas:
Rich Milk, dark and bakers Chocolate, chocolate yoohoo, plantain bananas, rich vanilla, blackberries, blue berry muffins, hints of oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, cocoa powder, cocoa krispies, peanut butter, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough, dark fruits figs and dates, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, hints of coconut, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow, white chocolate, mocha and notes of Kahlua.

Flavors:
Very Rich Milk, dark, bakers and Yoohoo Chocolate covered blueberries, blackberries, Chocolate Cheese cake, Banana Flan, maple grilled plantains, White Russian, White Chocolate, rich vanilla, oak, bourbon, blueberry muffins, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, figs and dates, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, marshmallow, oatmeal cookie dough, rocky road ice cream, oreo cookies, peanut butter, cocoa krispies, cocoa powder, chocolate cordial cherries, fudge cake, coffee cake, brown sugar and rum.

Aftertaste:
Lingering rich chocolate, banana and dark fruit complexities with hints of vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste. A sipping beer with a smoothness that can be described like drinking chocolate milkshake. Medium mouthfeel and very creamy.

Overall:
HOLY SHIT! I love this beer! I definitely have a new favorite. Who would have thought that for beer that is not as coveted as many other well known beers, that this one literally takes the cake, or atleast a huge chunk of chocolate cake. I got this beauty at Ramirez but I have seen it in many places like total wine. I believe they release this almost every year so without a shadow of a doubt, a highly recommended must try. I think what really does this one in is the chocolate and the other ingredients it shows it is made from.

Anime Corner:
Original artwork by Saintversa and allinix of Deviant art were used in this pairing mainly because of the colors and the label. Blue Green or Teal is my favorite color but I mainly wanted to show a black canine as I am unable to find many good pictures to pair these beers with. I take a gut feeling and usually take a perspective when choosing these. In terms of chocolate and dark beer, I felt this was perfect because I wanted to show guilty pleasure and unconditional love, in whatever form it may be for the loss of a pet. Hence why the canine anthropomorphic pictures are hard to see. Especially since anthropomorphic I guess in the “Furry world” (Don’t quote me on this, I am not a Furry) is the dividing line between man and animal or maninal. Essentially I am trying to say how pets are part of a family and we love them as such. Either way, this beer is very special and pleasant that you have to try it!

Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers by Stone brewing

May 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Chile beer, chipotle chile, Chipotle Peppers, Naruto, Pakura, Smoked Porter, Stone Brewing, Stone Smoked Porter, Team Stone | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers by Stone brewing is a 5.9% ABV American Porter with Chipotle Peppers.

Label:
Sometimes, developing a prodigious new beer is as simple as looking at an existing, already reliably delicious brew from a different angle. After all, as they say, variety is the spice of life. In 2006, Chris Carroll, a long time member of Team Stone, took an adage literally, proposing that we produce a one-off version of our venerable Stone Smoked Porter made spicy from the addition of chipotle peppers. We gave it a shot and found that those smoked jalapeños melded quite naturally with the smoldery peat-smoked malt that gives the beer its flavor and moniker, creating a deep, roasty quaff with a carefully restrained tingle of tasteful capsaicin heat in the finish, They marriage of ingredients was so nice that it has become an annual summertime staple, released each May in honor of Carroll’s initial idea that Stone Smoked Porter w/ Chipotle Peppers server as an artisanal alternative to the industrialized adjunct-laden cerveza billed as the perfect fluid accompaniment to the sunny season. Fizzy, yellow, watery lager abomination of smokey, robust craft beer–we think the choice is obvious . Cheers to variety and a quality alternative to mediocrity.
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This the latest release from Stone brewing for the 2014 Summer season. This is the second time I try this beer as well as the second time I got at it for a review. The previous edition of this installment was a 12 ounce bottle. I hope that this version of the beer is just as awesome as the previous as I love chile beers. While the last one was not really hot but the chipotle is present as the pepper is smoked itself. This ones out now so you can get this one in many places they sell Stone. Cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, smoked peat, campfire smoke, chile spices, brown sugar, mole sauce, molasses, smoked meat, chipotle, charred oak and caramel.

Flavors:
Camp fire smoke peat, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, a good amount of chipotle chile pepper spice, molasses, hints of mole sauce, earthy hop character, toffee, BBQ, vanilla, roasted coffee, brown sugar and chipotle chile spices.

Aftertaste:
Lingering heat in the finish but not drastic, just pleasing, earthy notes, smokey notes, chipotle spices and some vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, moderately sipping beer with full mouth feel.

Overall:
Very good beer. In comparison the the one I had before, the chile is a bit spicier lingering in the finish but still not super hot. It may not repel those that do not like chile beers but then again I do enjoy very hot food at times. If it has more heat maybe it is because it is fresher. Time may help clearing up the heat. I think this is worth a try if you want to try a very good chile beer. Especially if you like smoked chiles.

Anime Corner:
What a perfect way to pair this beer than to use Pakura from Naruto, the scorch ninja. She is the best beer pairing for this beer as well as for when I first reviewed this beer long ago. Like a ninja attacks when you don’t even know it, this beer is quite a scorcher in the finish. You will first feel all the smoke first and then the chile will linger. That is how Pakura attacks, drying and scorching the palate making you want water but it won’t help at all! Anyways, while this beer isn’t the ultimate scorcher, Pakura has a sweet side as well, but you will have to try this beer to know what I am talking about (ahem vanilla ahem).