He’Brew Jewbelation 20th Anniversary Ale by Shmaltz Brewing

March 3, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged 10 hops, 10 Malts, 20th Anniversary Ale, American Barleywine, Fluttershy, He'Brew Jewbelation, Lego Movie, MLP, Shmaltz Brewing, Wyldstyle | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6
He’Brew Jewbelation 20th Anniversary Ale by Shmaltz Brewing is a 16.8% ABV American Barleywine brewed with 10 Malts and 10 Hops.

Label:
Celebrating 20 years of Award Winning Beer & Delicious Shtick. L’Chaim!

“Score” is an ancient word for 20. 4 score from Gettysburg, plus Psalm 90 and MLK’s “I Have a Dream”. 20 Years of Shmaltz, one helluva Score, officially complete! About the Fugees 1996 hit The Score, Lauryn Hill said, “It’s like a hip hop version of Tommy.” At age 20, Bette Midler who later played the Acid Queen in the 1st stage show of Tommy, debuted on Broadway in Fiddler on the Roof, originally considered “too Jewish” for mainstream audiences. 20 is the Biblical age of maturity, when Jewish Priests could work in the sacred Temple. 20 years after the naked Starman icon 1st appeared on 2112, Rush released their best that’s-what-he-said lyric in ‘96: “I’ve got a pantheon of animals in a pagan soul / Vishnu & Gaia, Aztec & Maya / Dance around my totem pole.” ’96: the Sex Pistols 20th anniv reunion & the final Ramones tour. Married in ‘96, Jack & Meg claimed they were siblings in the early years of the White Stripes. At 20, Woody Allen wrote scripts for Ed Sullivan & The Tonight Show. The title song for his ‘96 musical Everyone Says I Love You came from a favorite Marx Bros movie. After appearing on The Tonight Show with Groucho Marx & opening for Liberace in Vegas, at 20, Barbra Streisand’s debut album skyrocketed her to stardom. At 20, Dave Chappelle was cast by Mel Brooks as Ahchoo in Robin Hood: Men in Tights. When the crowd grumbles at a black sheriff of Rottingham, Ahchoo quips “It worked in Blazing Saddles.” Inspired by the Blazing Saddles musical score, Here’s to conquering fear & hate & taboos. A torch to light the way! To life… L’Chaim!

==Introduction==

Every year, since the 15th anniversary of this beer, I have brought this beer to the site. In each iteration, they have added a hop, a malt and in some cases an ABV point until getting to around 17% ABV. This year only using 10 hops and 10 malt varieties. It calls for essentially a different and yet still very complex Barleywine. In fact many of the previous beers over the years have beer similar with some having different flavors due to the malt and hop use but overall, it is a beer I always go to. I really enjoy this series and hope to try more over the years, Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit cherries, raisins, plums, prunes, figs, citrus, grapefruit, herbal, piney and earthy hops, licorice, molasses, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, fudge chocolate, smokey campfire notes, roasted barley, tropical notes of guava, beet juice hints, tangerine gummies, tobacco, and soy sauce.

Flavors:
Juicy Citrus and dark fruit blend, oranges, earthy, herbal, grapefruit and piney hops, dark fruit cherries, raisins, plums, prunes, figs, currants, molasses, anise, soy sauce, oaky notes, tobacco notes, licorice, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, fudge chocolate, smokey campfire notes, roasted barley, leather, tobacco, molasses, rye bread, clove spice, maple syrup, fruit cake, toffee, butterscotch, pecan pie, sweetend condensed milk, flan notes, marshmallows, cotton candy, toasted coconut, honey, tropical notes of guava, beet juice hints, tangerine gummies, dragon fruit and passion fruit.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with dark fruits, dark chocolate, tropical notes, mixed berry blend, earthy, citrus, grapefruit, floral and herbal hop notes along with caramel, vanilla and burnt marshmallow smoke. No alcohol in the taste. Pitch black motor oil full body, Silky, smooth, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel, and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
For being their 20th year, this one was damn supremely exceptional as its predecessors. Very complex like always showcasing the sweet dark fruits and chocolate mixed with some piney and citrucy flavors. The alcohol is subtle due to the complexity of the beer overall. Super malts with super hops makes this one a double whamy especially its multiple of x10. Level 20 insanity that I think will appeal to both hop heads and dark strong beer lovers. I highly recommend this one!

Anime Corner:
WyldStyle from The Lego Movie was used in this pairing, as I wanted to mainly pair with the colors of the label but also a character that looks like a bad ass. She has a complex and strong attitude towards many other characters in this series and pairs well with the complexity and ABV strength of the beer. I am sure she can kick the crap out of anyone too. In the past, I have done the same choosing similar characters that I think would pair with the yellows, blues and reds.

I also added Fluttershy at the last minute as this pic of her fits really well with the beer and the punk similarities to Wyldstyle

Sources:
http://orig12.deviantart.net/9f49/f/2014/276/4/1/lego_movie_wyldstyle_by_darkness1999th-d81g29h.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ByJSb0tCQAMIGY7.png:large
https://desu-usergeneratedcontent.xyz/co/image/1416/10/1416100294679.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cikp05Rl2Lg/VxjqHQUKfjI/AAAAAAAAAwk/M65H7FyjpfcizfISZu2Yj7QMFOolLS91g/s530-p/e1728be4-72b6-4c93-8d63-15686235a52c
https://desu-usergeneratedcontent.xyz/aco/image/1460/13/1460136496861.png

Frootwood by Founders brewing

March 3, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cherry ale, Founders Brewing, Frootwood, maple, Maple Syrup, Maple Syrup Barrels, Ruby Rose, Rwby | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Frootwood by Founders brewing is an 8% ABV Cherry Ale aged in Maple Syrup Bourbon Barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
We took a crisp, light-bodied cherry ale and hid it away in oak barrels that have held both bourbon and maple syrup. After a lengthy stint, it emerged a changed beer, blanketed in notes of warm vanilla and earthy sweetness. The wood proves itself the star of this beer, adding depth and taming the tart cherry while the maple imposes a velvety texture that lingers for not a moment too long.

==Introduction==

The 4th Barrel aged brew I have ever tried from the Founders series of beers. KBS, Backwoods Bastard and Lizard of Koz were the other three. This time they bring a beer with cherries which I believe was the original brew, Cerise and barrel aged that in barrels that previously had Maple syrup and Bourbon barrels to cream this light bodied beer. It was strange at first since many of their barrel aged beers I expected this to be darker but this is very nice. Regardless, Founders has been a great brewery since the days of their Breakfast Stout and to this day I enjoy getting my hands on them whenever I can. Let’s take a look at this one and see how good The “Fruit Wood” is. Cheers!

Aromas:
Maple, dark cherries, cinnamon, mint, yerba buena tea, green tea ice cream, sweetened condensed milk notes, Danish cream, ginger bread, brown sugar, honey, floral notes, roses, apple cider, stone fruit, vanilla and caramel.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Cherries, Cinnamon tea, brown sugar, maple, vanilla, caramel oak, bourbon, marzipan, chardonnay, wine grapes, honey, floral notes, roses, stone fruit peaches, apple pie, cherry cobbler, peach cobbler, mint, yerba buena tea, green tea ice cream, sweetened condensed milk notes, biscuit bread, butterscotch, apple cider, Danish cream, ginger bread, fruit cake hints and cookie dough ice cream hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing semi dry with cherry, oak, maple, wine grapes and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, light to medium amber body, crisp, refreshing, smooth and clean mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very nice exceptional hitter. The flavors are not super complex but there is an array of reasons why I consider this one very exceptional. For starters, ridiculously easy to drink, not offending in the alcohol, very nice flavors are noted and the semi dry finish is something that keeps you wanting more. You can easily finish this in one sitting if not careful. The very interesting thing about this beer is that it is not cloying at all. This can definitely be very approachable to non beer drinkers. I highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Ruby Rose from RWBY was chosen in this pairing for the colors that pair well with her and the red of cherries and dark maple and oak bourbon. Even the color of the beer as well showcases the ruby and rose colors in general that fit well with the beer.

Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C2pnlbkXEAArFG0.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Ruby.Rose.full.2061817.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2016-08-20-854922.jpeg
http://pic.element3ds.com/forum/201611/18/145623fexpvxxpjbrjrxfv.png

Birthday Cake by The Dudes’ brewing

March 3, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Stout, Asmodeus, Astaroth, Birthday Cake, cake flavors, cake frosting, Shinra Banshou, The Dudes brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Birthday Cake by The Dudes’ brewing is a 4.9% ABV American Stout brewed with Cake flavors.

==Introduction==

Draft Only release, well, at least for the mean time. When I tried this one at the Dudes’ brewing, I simply thought it was amazing. I am not sure what process they used to get the cake flavors in there as extracts are something that not a lot of breweries use. Regardless, sometimes it can cause beers to “taste fake” but this does not taste fake. Some people may not concur but I for one really loved this one so much I wanted to bring it home for analysis. Thanks to the Dudes’ draft canning line or Crowler system, I was able to bring a can home. For a beer that takes super close to chocolate cake I definitely wanted to bring it to the site. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, cake frosting, Tres Leches/Three Milks cake, almond joy chocolate, coffee cake, steamed milk, hazelnut nectar, lactose milk sugar, whipped cream, banana sundae, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, vanilla, caramel, molasses and mild dark fruit notes.

Flavors:
Rich frosting of cake flavors, Tres Leches/Three Milks cake (Not just one, lol), vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, lactose milk sugar, whipped cream, banana sundae, red velvet, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, earthy hops, Dark fruit raspberry, cherries, black berries, currants, molasses, toasted coconut hints, madamia nuts, almond joy chocolate, coffee cake, steamed milk, hazelnut nectar, peanut butter notes, pecan pie, Irish cream, Danish cream and chocolate mousse.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with cake flavor, dark chocolate notes, earthy notes, burnt sugar, vanilla, toffee and caramel.
No alcohol in the taste. Dark body, smooth, creamy, velvety and watery like mouthfeel. Very easy to drink as well.

Overall:
Let me just say that the reason I thought this beer was damn exceptional was mainly because this is pure liquid cake. The complexities are mainly variations of the cake flavor. While not cloying, the light ABV and semi light body makes up for this ever becoming cloying and yet giving rich cake flavors. I am not sure if natural cake flavors were used to make this but however the process, it is insane and I hope to see this one see a public release! Highly recommended

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus and Astaroth from Shinrabansho were used in this pairing as I wanted mainly to pair with the pastel colors of cake. That and the fact that this beer is evil! Well not evil but its so sweet and awesome it should be evil. Yes, I could of gone with an actual cake pairing, since there is no label, I wanted to think of abstract colors and since these 2 are favorite characters of mine.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/eW7uTxJ.jpg
http://mugen-ryu.matrix.jp/image/asmo-m.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/uxodV46.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pvQsE2H.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CeJLY6IUMAAZn9O.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/FyYcRqG.jpg

Sirens’ Song by Ommegang brewing

March 3, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Ariel, Belgian Dark Strong Ale, Disney, Figs, Ommegang, Ommegang brewing, Raisins, Siren, Sirens, Sirens' Song, The Little Mermaid | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

Sirens’ Song by Ommegang brewing is a 9% ABV Belgian Dark Strong Ale brewed with Figs and Raisins.

Label:
Where heaven met earth and stayed awhile

To revel in life’s sweet Music

Ancient mariners braved the Aegean, holds laden with figs and raisins. They faced great storms, monstrous sea creatures, and merciless pirates. But all paled compared to the Sirens, whose enchanted songs drifted to sea and drew the sailors to their end.

Our dark ale, Sirens’ Song, pays homage to the lost cargos, with figs and raisins added to the brew kettle. The resulting beer is dark, mysterious, and as irresistible as the Sirens’ seductive song.

Roasted malt and burnt sugar aromas lead, followed by flavors of dark fruit and notes of dark caramel. The finish is smooth and balanced with subtle bitterness.

==Introduction==

Ommegang has been one of my favorite Belgian style breweries making great beers including one of my top 3 favorites in the world, Three Philosophers. They recently released this new Belgian Dark Strong brewed with figs and raisins. While Belgian yeast, candi sugars and the right malts and hops can create great complexity similar to these fruits, adding them brings about other unique complexities. So I can definitely see how this may actually elevate the beer to higher levels of flavors. Let’s see who this dark ales does, cheers!

Aromas:
Banana phenolocs, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark fruits of raisins, prunes, currants, figs, dates, plums, raspberries, dark candy sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, rock candy, rye bread, molasses, pecan pie, hazelnut, stone fruit peaches, apricots and cinnamon.

Flavors:
Super dark fruits of raisins, prunes, currants, figs, dates, plums, raspberries, pears, apples, Banana cream pie, Banana sundae, dark chocolate notes, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, maple syrup, cloves, anise, coriander, stone fruit peaches, apricots, cinnamon, peppercorn, dark candy sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, rock candy, rye bread, molasses, pecan pie, hazelnut, pralines, peanut clusters, marzipan, toffee, apple pie, peach cobbler, peach preserves and port wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishing up with rich dark fruits, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, stone fruit, bananas, dark candy sugar, clove spice and marzipan notes. No alcohol in the taste. Full Crimson body. Smooth, creamy, and velvety mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptional dark Belgian with so much dark fruit complexity. The figs and raisins actually did make a difference enhancing the beer, which I can only assume the base was already delicious. The phenolic and banana flavors really stand out wonderfully almost making this more of a banana and dark fruit dessert. It has been a long time since I have tried a new Belgian from Ommegang and trying these new beers are always pleasant. I highly recommend this one to those that love dark Belgians.

Anime Corner:
Ariel from Disney’s the Little Mermaid as well as original Siren and mermaid characters were chosen for this pairing as it was the obvious choice to go with the name of the beer and the label colors. It was something that I felt should have been easy but I also wanted to give a pairing to the name which is the Song of the Siren and there for it shows Ariel singing. While Sirens and Mermaids differ in how much more of a fish they are and other characteristics, some mermaids can be seen as sirens. So I think it worked out just fine.

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2016-11-26-874085.jpeg
http://img13.deviantart.net/77cc/i/2016/113/8/c/headphone_girl_reborn_by_sakimichan-d9zz8ea.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/233346-1542×2000-the+little+mermaid-ariel-sakimichan-long+hair-single-tall+image.jpeg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/393181-1500×985-the+little+mermaid-disney-ariel-u-min+%28artist%29-long+hair-single.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/509203-905×1280-the+little+mermaid-disney-ariel-cian+yo-long+hair-single.jpg

Super Bashah (Black As Sin Hoppy As Hell) of the Stone Berlin Groundbreaking Collaboration Series #3 by Stone & Brew Dog

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Belgian Dark Strong Ale, Black As Sin Hoppy As Hell, Black Belgian Double India Pale Ale, black ipa, BrewDog, Dark Rukia, Imperial Black IPA, Kuchiki Rukia, Rukia, Rukia Devil, Rukia Kuchiki, Rukia Succubus, Stone Berlin, Stone Berlin Groundbreaking Collaboration Series, Stone Brewing, Super Bashah | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Super Bashah (Black As Sin Hoppy As Hell) of the Stone Berlin Groundbreaking Collaboration Series #3 by Stone & Brew Dog is a 10% ABV Black Belgian Double India Pale Ale.

Label:
Series 3 of 14

Glorious mayhem always ensues when Stone Brewing and BrewDog team up to brew a beer. Mix a lifelong metalhead known for having an occasionally aggressive attitude toward the panel with self-professed punks notorious for brewing hardcore beers and pushing the boundaries at full-throttle pace…and this hopped-up headbanger was a no-brainer. Part imperial stout, part Belgian abbey ale and all IPA, this style-smashing hybrid is a supercharged version of the BrewDog / Stone bashah original from 2009. BASHAH: Black As Sin. Hoppy As Hell. This Berlin mash-up will no doubt suffice in satiating those who crave intensity and a pummeling of flavor. Any ringing in your ears from the cacophony should subside within a few days. Probably.

SPECIAL INGREDIENTS
Chocolate Malt & Belgian Yeast

Tasting Notes: Paradoxical in style, roasted malts dominate until the herculian hops and sweet Belgian yeast takes over.

Aroma: Funky dark fermented fruits muddled with citrus and some sweetness.

BBQ duck tacos, bacon-wrapped figs, shiitake mushroom risotto, baklava

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

MIT STOLZ GEBRAUT IN BERLIN

==Introduction==

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

Super Bashah was based on BASHAH which Stone did a collaboration with Brew Dog years ago and it was a memorable beer. That is why when I heard they were doing a collaboration again for the tribute of the new brewery I wanted to bring this one to the site, new and improved, super BASHAH. So thankfully, here it is. Now, these beers will be available at Stone Stores but I do not know if they will see distribution. That is why I suggest possibly visiting Stone or trade for one, as they will be sold to the public. Let’s have a look at Super BASHAH!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, smokey oak, roasted coffee, espresso roast, leather, tobacco, bananas, clove spice, anise, molasses, Citrus, grapefruit, piney, floral, herbal, dank garlicky hops, vanilla, biscuit bread, stone fruit peach, apricot, Belgian candy sugar, rock candy, burnt sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, funky farmhouse, Dulce de leche caramel and lots of dark fruit.

Flavors:
Citrus, grapefruit, piney, floral, herbal, dank garlicky hops, vanilla, biscuit bread, Tropical dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, guava, papaya, strawberry, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, smokey oak, roasted coffee, espresso roast, coffee cake, charred malt, Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, blackberries, raspberries, prunes, port wine, leather, tobacco, Dulce de leche caramel, bananas, clove spice, anise, molasses, flan, crème brulee, stone fruit peach, apricot, Belgian candy sugar, rock candy, burnt sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, mushrooms, funky farmhouse hay and phenolics.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with dark chocolate, tropical fruit, dark fruit, stone fruit, caramel, roasted barley, dank fruity and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black, 5th dimensional dark abysmal body, super smooth, creamy, refreshing, crisp and velvety mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability despite the ABV.

Overall:
Ridiculous! Bashah! How is this beer possible? Ridiculous smoothness, ridiculously easy to drink and super well done. I think the complexity and the Belgian Dark helps this one be hoppy but not super bitter. This was a very well made beer and worth my investment in the sponsorship of the Berlin Brewery. Of the new ones that have come from Berlin, I love them all so far but this one I love even more. Reminded me so much of Stillwater’s Folklore to another level. I definitely and highly recommend this one to those who love Black IPAs and Dark Belgians.

Anime Corner:
Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach as a devil/succubus was originally used on the original beer of BASHAH so naturally, she would make a return for Super BASHAH. The original reason to use this version of Rukia was to go well with the gargoyle of Stone. Since that time, Rukia has gone through many epic changes in the series and has gotten stronger. So displaying many of her different changes including BANKAI and the Chinese Kunfu Martial artists, I felt worked great for this special occasion of a pairing.

Sources:
http://img13.deviantart.net/5462/i/2009/297/3/9/devil_rukia_by_gray_fullbuster.jpg
https://secure.static.tumblr.com/9f8bc91c0564907fa4475f421e00aaef/ixaiiuk/68ro4hkc6/tumblr_static_tumblr_static_3yucn8jlqa68gk8o8gggs0csc_640.jpg
http://img04.deviantart.net/12dd/i/2011/283/e/9/rukia_kuchiki_by_makiilu-d4cgr5y.png
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/e6/56/83/e65683423c8c79d756a12284884c5efe.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CV7-g3rUkAMD6Os.jpg
http://static4.fjcdn.com/comments/3092012+_ad09936c9f232b886c3cafbd768cc4ed.png
http://img15.deviantart.net/ef21/i/2013/011/9/8/halloween_rukia_by_escarter-d5r5ko4.png
http://img-fotki.yandex.ru/get/4213/249937769.13f/0_19c10e_768cd38_XL

Stone Give Me IPA or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged beer collaboration, blackberries, Commonwealth of Virginia, DIPA, IIPA, Imperial India Pale Ale, Jenny XJ-9, MLAATR, Raspberries, Richmond Virginia, Stone Brewing, Stone Give Me IPA or Give Me Death, Virginia | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.95/5

Stone Give Me IPA or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia is a 8 % ABV Imperial India Pale Ale brewed with Raspberries & Blackberries from the commonwealth of Virginia

Label:
Virginia Commemorative Collaboration

An Imperial Tribute to Richmond & the rise of craft beer independence.

Just as Patrick Henry once stood addressing the city of Richmond in 1775 to spur resistance against the tyrannical British Empire, 20 years ago we were stirred to join the cry for resistance against the tyrannical oppression of industrial beer. And now, the opening of our Richmond brewery is yet another shot in the salvo that has been fired on behalf of American brewing independence. If we wish to brew free, if we mean to retain our identity and preserve the privilege of access to independent craft beer, we must recognize it is a group effort. We do not stand alone. And so, on our new brewing grounds, we gathered with fellow craft breweries and “His Excellency,” Governor McAuliffe, to join together in force. A group cry of freedom & independence! Consider this aggressively hopped imperial IPA, jam-packed with Virginia raspberries and blackberries, a testament to our passion and unwillingness to settle or sell out! We think Patrick Henry would be proud, and hope you will be too.

Our Collaborators
Ardent Craft Ales
Hardywood Park Brewery
His Excellency Terry McAuliffe, Virginia Governor.

==Introduction==

The second release from Stone’s new brewery in Virginia in collaboration with local facilities and government. The first was the stout made with the same ingredients. This time, its an IPA. Fruited IPAs have varied responses in the communities. I personally love fruit IPAs but with one being made with the tribute of the state and Stone’s location is quite the honor. Even the name is rings history as I uses the quote used in Patrick Henry’s speech, “Give Me Liberty of Give Me Death” during the American Revolution. So with that being said, let us see how this beer is, cheers!

Aromas:
Tropical fruit papaya, kiwi, passion fruit hints, guava, floral, piney, citrus, grassy grapefruit and earthy hops, biscuit bread, vanilla, lemon peel, wild flower honey, biscuit bread, lychee fruit, honey dew melon, tangerine gummies and cherry notes.

Flavors:
Citrus, grapefruit, floral, grassy, piney and earthy dank hops, biscuit bread, lychee fruit, honey dew melon, tangerine gummies, tropical fruit papaya, kiwi, passion fruit hints, guava, starburst candy, wild flower honey, Raspberries, blackberries, cherry, pomegranate strawberries, pineapple, mango, stone fruit hints, kumquats, lemon peel and vanilla notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Raspberries, blackberries, dank dry, citrus, grapefruit, oniony and earthy hops, tropical fruit, honey, stone fruit hints and lemon peel. No alcohol in the taste. Amber clear body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good IPA although the Raspberries and Blackberries are subtle. They shine more in the after taste it seems as the overall beer is more of a delicious IPA in general. While I feel this could have used more of the raspberry and blackberry flavor, it is subtle enough that it will not offend people that do not like fruited IPAs. In fact, in that aspect, this is a winner for sure. Worth trying for sure!
Anime Corner:
Jenny X-J9 Wakeman from MLAATR was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to pair mainly with the colors of the beer but also the aspect that makes the name of the beer, which is bravery. Being brave is what would make someone make a stand for what they believe in. Jenny is a very brave fighter and a hero. So while I did use other art pieces that I like with this one, the one where she is stopping the falling meteorites is very brave representing the name.

Sources:
http://orig09.deviantart.net/0181/f/2015/137/a/c/jenny_rocks_by_14_bis-d8triub.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/86ff7-robotic_friends_by_ry_spirit-d5slsz0.jpg
http://2static.fjcdn.com/large/pictures/b6/7b/b67ba3_5988473.jpg
http://static1.fjcdn.com/comments/Dat+metal+_07d34f25e915e50a0d8d0e1325a5394e.jpg

The Order by The Bruery

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey, Belgian Abbey Strong Dark Ale, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Coriander, Dates, Final Fantasy Tactics, High Seraph Altima, Spices, The Bruery, The Order, Ultima | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.85/6

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The Order by The Bruery is a 10.6% ABV Belgian Abbey Strong Dark Ale brewed with Dates, Coriander and Spices.

Label:
A NEW NOCTURNE

Storied tradition meets local inspiration in this Belgian-inspired abbey ale, featuring coriander spicing and our love for dates.

Monastic breweries wrote the book on complex ales with elements of dark fruit, spices and caramelized notes. The Order summons that tradition and adds local inspiration with character from dates, Belgian-style sugars and subtle spicing from coriander.

==Introduction==

A new “Year Round” release for all societies and the public. This beer is made in the tradition of the Belgian Abbey styles of Dark Ales such as the Quadrupels, which are actually some of my favorite styles of beer. The Bruery has released several Quads and Dark ales before but the many of them would be barrel aged. I think this is the first time they make an Abbey ale just as a basic style. Which is truly unique. While I have a love for the Bruery, I will need to analyze this one closely as I have to compare this Abbey styles to the many true Belgians I have tried before and possibly my own. Let’s see how this one is and see if it can stand on its own, cheers!

Aromas:
Belgian candi sugars, stone fruit peaches, apricot, apples, peppercorn hints, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone, rock candy, candied oranges, dark fruit plums, prunes, raisins, cherries, pomegranate, dates, figs, pecan pie, clove spice, coriander, anise, dulce de leche caramel, bananas and flan notes.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit plums, prunes, raisins, cherries, pomegranate, dates, figs, pecan pie, clove spice, coriander, anise, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bananas, sweetened condensed milk, flan hints, dark chocolate notes, Belgian candi sugars, stone fruit peaches, apricot, apples, peppercorn hints, Belgian sweet bread, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone, rock candy, candied oranges, toffee, pears, peach and pear cobbler, floral, citrus and earthy hops, dried mango and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with dark fruit, honey, caramel, piloncillo sugar cone, stone fruits, dates and hints of chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, amber hazy orange full body, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A well exceptional Belgian dark ale. For a Belgian Abbey Dark strong, it shines tremendously. In fact, I cannot recall the last time the Bruery made a basic Abbey Belgian. For this one, it really is truly amazing. Being a fan of quads and dark ales, this one definitely went above my expectations and would highly recommend it if you love Belgians.

Anime Corner:
High Seraph Altima from Final Fantasy Tactics as the perfect character to use in this pairing as the name of the beer indicates that there is a secret organization in the abbeys. In the game, she is actually the deity that the monks sects try to keep secret. She is actually an angel kept a secret. So since her origin is from monasteries keeping secrets and the name of the beer calls for an organization, this was the perfect name.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/LPSLcEq.jpg
http://www.crymore.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Ultima-chan.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y14/shishisenkou/594b674dc8de0824f3cd83d4953a1e57.jpg~original
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y14/shishisenkou/b123a2b412e3b0572d6f943f0e9fceac.png~original
http://i.imgur.com/5H29oHp.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/5jDQGLU.png

2017 Mélange 5 by The Bruery

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Guilty Crown, Inori, Inori Yuzuriha, Mélange 5, Old Ale, Rauchbier, Smoked Ale, The Bruery, wheat wine | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 Mélange 5 by The Bruery is a 15% ABV Hybrid of 90% Old Ale and Wheatwine aged in bourbon barrels with 10% Rauchbier.

Label:
DAMN THAT DBJW

This trip down memory lane is rauch-y blend of our bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine-style ale anniversary ale and smoked beer.

It’s dirty business, rubbing shoulders with friends in the BBQ business. But we’re rolling up our sleeves and revisiting a favorite from an anniversary weekend years ago. Using malt smoked on our friend’s house smoker, we brewed a smoked beer and blended it with our bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine-style ale and anniversary ale. The result is a woody, smoky, blend you’ll want to sink your teeth into.

==Introduction==

Released to Reserve and Hoarders Society, this is the newest entry in the awesome Mélange series of beer. Each one unique using different ingredients mainly including White Oak Wheatwine, their Anniversary Old Ale and/or Black Tuesday Imperial Stout. This time around, they blended a smoked beer adding some different kind of complexity to the beer. So far, I haven able to bring a good amount of these beers to the website and hope to continue the trend. I think there is no doubt in my mind that this series of beers have been nothing but pure exceptional gold. Let’s see what the smoke adds to the already awesome beer, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, raspberries, smokey oak, whiskey, bourbon, BBQ, honey, marshmallow, pecan pie, waffle cone, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Cadbury cream eggs, capirotada raisin bread pudding, smoked rye bread, nutmeg, oranges, tobacco, vanilla and bacon.

Flavors:
Maple syrup, BBQ, smokey oak, bourbon, whisky, dulce de leche caramel, caramelized bacon, honey ham, vanilla, toasted coconut, oranges, leather, molasses, tobacco, chocolate, Cadbury cream eggs, capirotada raisin bread pudding, toasted coconut, piloncillo sugar cone,burnt sugars, butterscotch, plantains, Belgian Candi sugar, dark fruit raisins, plums, clove spice, anise, coriander spice hints, smoked rye bread, nutmeg, flan, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, pecan pie, Raspberry chambord and waffle cone.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with BBQ, pulled pork hints, smokey notes, Cadbury chocolate caramel cream eggs, vanilla, honey, chocolate, and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, hazy orange full body, smooth, chewy, creamy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional brew. As, always, very complex like the other Mélanges and the Rauchbier does add some new complexity to the blend that makes it very enticing. Malty sweet and smokey notes to balance. Overall, like the many Bruery beers, it is a dessert on its own. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Inori Yuzuriha from Guilty Crown was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to mainly pair with the colors of the beer with the orange, black and brown colors. It was also an opportunity to bring this character to the Bruery series of beers as I have not used her in these pairings in the past. To prevent repeat characters, it is always hard to find all the needed characters. I think additionally, her colors and traits like complex personality would go great with the beer as well.

Sources:
http://tp.lingyu.me/bz/timthumb.php?src=http%3A%2F%2Ftp.lingyu.me%2Fbz%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F08%2Fwww.lingyu.me_20160816044331198.jpg&w=2560&h=1600&zc=1
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-04-08-824018.jpeg
http://tp.lingyu.me/bz/uploads/2016/08/www.lingyu.me_20160816043321505.jpg
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xsSLRAcRT-M/UeDNJLVJ8FI/AAAAAAAABUY/TEmSjqQRGMI/w650-h795/B7951FA2-18BA-4AB8-A0A7-F3943796D4BF.JPG
http://i6.buimg.com/92d5df145faaab68.jpg
http://www.kartinki.me/images/201204/kartinki.me_3001.jpg
http://i.imgbox.com/K0JPn5AA.jpg

Chronology:6 Imperial Porter by The Bruery

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Porter, Chronology 6, Chronology:6, Dark Stalkers, Imperial Porter, Morrigan Aensland | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.85/6

Chronology:6 Imperial Porter by The Bruery is a 12.7% ABV Imperial Porter aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
TIME WELL SPENT

This is the first in a chronological series of beers released at six-month intervals to chart the evolution of bourbon barrel-aged character in an imperial porter over time.

For this Chronology series, we brewed an imperial porter and set it to age in bourbon barrels. Every six months, we;ll take a quarter of the barrels, blend them and bottle them. The first bottling represents the nuances imparted to the base beer after six months of barrel-aging.

==Introduction==

Another year of the awesome Chronology series begins. With this entry, 2017 starts by creating a passage of barrel aging prowess with the Imperial Porter Styles. The past 2 years of the series have been amazing and growing ever exquisite with age. The best one I love so far was the Wee Heavy as I have a preference for that rare style but still, they have all been amazing. Now bringing the first one in the series to the table, let’s see how this base will fair after the next couple of months, cheers!

Aromas:
Rocky road ice cream, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel oak, bourbon, toasted coconuts, Irish cream, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar notes, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, Cadbury chocolate and caramel cream eggs, butterscotch, Tootsie roll chocolate, Jamoca Chocolate, dark fruit currants, raisins, dark cherries, raspberry notes, molasses and maple syrup.

Flavors:
Cadbury chocolate and caramel cream eggs, butterscotch, Tootsie roll chocolate, Jamoca Chocolate Cherry Ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, smoked whiskey notes, marshmallow smores, rocky road ice cream, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel oak, bourbon, toasted coconuts, dark fruit currants, raisins, dark cherries, raspberry notes, molasses, maple syrup, anise, Irish cream, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar notes, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk and almond joy chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, smokey notes, whiskey notes, marshmallow and toasted coconut. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very exceptional beer right off the barrel. I know it’s only been 6 months but this is already damn delicious. Ofcouse, I expected no different from some of the amazing barrel aging process that the Bruery does. Rich barrel and bourbon character along with the port flavors of the chocolate and dark fruit complexities.

Anime Corner:
Morrigan Aensland from Dark Stalkers was chosen in this pairing since I have not done a Bruery pairing with Morrigan and she is a favorite character of mine. With her hair colors that are mainly what pairs well with the beer as well as other colors and beer strength, it was a personal fit in my mind for the pairing.

Sources:
https://img.fireden.net/vg/image/1467/76/1467768472566.jpg
http://favera.ru/img/2016/06/27/1319260_1467012000.jpg
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/456597-800×800-vampire++darkstalkers+%28game%29-capcom-morrigan+aensland-tsuaii-long+hair-single.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2015-08-23-762603.jpeg
http://vsevgallery.com/img/bPIC/201512/s5QCUK3bH00I.jpg

Sugaree Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie by High Water brewing

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Strong Ale, Bourbon Barrel Oak, High Water brewing, oak chips, pecan pie, pecans, Sugaree Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie, Temmie, Undertale, Vermont Maple Sugar | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Sugaree Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie by High Water brewing is a 9.8% ABV American Strong Ale brewed with Vermont Maple sugar, Bourbon Barrel Oak chips and pecan.

Label:
Fill Your Pie Hole

Sugaree offers a big slice of flavors that you wish Grandma had put in her famous Thanksgiving pie. Sit back, relax and enjoy a wonderful bottle of liquid love. You will be transported back to times of holiday joy and family get togethers from the past. This is a special treat from us to you, to help relive some of those special memories or maybe help create some new ones.

==Introduction==

High Water brewing is a brewery I haven’t had a chance to try much. I think I have seen some of their beers at the store before but this was the first time one of them really caught my eye. Being a fan of dessert beers, it is a major weakness of mine. I love sweet beers so this bourbon barrel aged maple and pecan pie beer sounded awesome! The last time I had something similar was the Southern Slice from Terrapin and Cigar City, which was awesome! I know I would have to gauge this one a bit different from that one but I am definitely glad I was able find it to bring it to the site. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich maple syrup, coffee cake, cinnamon, piloncillo sugar cone, flan hints, dulce de leche caramel, french toast, apples, stone fruit peach, sweet potato pie, molasses, toasted rye bread, toffee, vanilla, mild bourbon notes and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich pecan pie, rich maple syrup, hazelnut nectar, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, brown sugar, fruit cake, piloncillo sugar cone, flan, cinnamon, bourbon notes, marshmallow smores, piney, earthy and floral hops, sweet potato pie, molasses, toasted rye bread, french toast, apples, stone fruit peach hints, honey comb, waffle cone, coffee cake, dark fruit raisins, cherry hints, milk chocolate, marzipan, almond joy hints, Danish cream hints, toffee, scotch, butterscotch and chocolate truffle hints.

Aftertaste:
Awesome pecan pie lingering notes of maple, vanilla, caramel, toffee, bourbon, coffee cake, oak and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste. Crimson amber light to hazy bod. Smooth mildy crisp, refreshing, Easy to moderate drinkability despite the ABV.

Overall:
Damn exceptional brew balancing out the super sweetness with some nice hops. The reason I give this one a high grade has to do with the ability to combine a brew that is exactly what I feel they set it out to be while at the same time giving some balance that is usually reminiscent of one of my favorite American Strong ales, essentially, notes of oaked Arrogant bastard. The brew is definitely a pecan pie that is not overly sweet so those looking for a delicious hoppy brew that is not too sweet will find a winner. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Temmie from Undertale was chosen in this pairing, as I wanted to pair her with a beer, as she became one of my favorite characters from the series. Since I found this brew with colors that best pair Temmie, I went with it and I feel with the whole dessert aspect of this beer, it fit great!

Sources:
https://images5.alphacoders.com/727/thumb-1920-727790.png
http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/150/352/72b.png
http://img15.deviantart.net/ed70/i/2016/016/7/1/hoi_i_m_temmie_by_kenokino-d9o4a6v.png
https://static1.e621.net/data/33/d9/33d946ff99b7472ab82efae68767523c.png
http://img14.deviantart.net/1830/i/2016/097/e/3/hoi___by_hilcolor-d9y1ew2.png

2017 Deliverance by The Lost Abbey

February 25, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Angel Share, Barleywine, Beer Hybrid, Bois Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Serpent stout, brandy, Brandy Barrel Aged, Brandy Barrels, cuvee, Deliverance, Garterbelt, Imperial Stout, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Panty and Stocking, PSG, Scanty, Scanty and Kneesocks, Scanty Daemon, Serpent Stout, Serpent's Stout, The Lost Abbey, The Lost Abbey Deliverance | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

16487640_10103986386835790_5269989810111927142_o

2017 Deliverance by The Lost Abbey is a 12.5% Angel Share (Brandy Barrel aged Barleywine) and BBA Serpent Stout (Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout) hybrid/cuvee.

Label:
Whether you’re a “Lead us not into Temptation.” or a “Deliver us from Evil” son of person matter not. The end of the world is no longer near. It’s Frigging upon us! Apocalypse. Doomsday and Armageddon have all converged on earth rendering it one gigantic volcanic lake of pestilence. Free will caught the bus out of town and Salvation can only be found in the outstretched hands of His Redeeming Angel’s. It’s sad but true. Our lots were cast long ago and Judgment has arrived. There is nothing we can do to improve our standings. They don’t offer cuts in the Line of Heaven. So stop trying to “Love thy neighbor” and join us as we kick back waiting for our souls to be fetched. In honor of civilization’s end, we put together your own personal Deliverance in a bottle. It won’t save you from Satan’s grasp. But sin tastes good. So, bottom’s up. Or is it down?

==Introduction==

Another favorite of mine. Possibly even more than the Serpent’s Stout, the Deliverance Ale. A brew I once travelled over several hours on several busses to and forth to a store that had this beer. This was my first experience with a “Double Barrel” or “Double Spirit aged” beer blend. A blend of a stout and barley wine. It was also hard to find way back then and was one of the beers responsible for my passion of collecting beer artwork along with the other Lost Abbey beers. So when they updated the label and brought it back to the marketplace, I had to bring it to the site. A pricey little bottle but in my opinion, worth all the pennies. So let’s go and embrace the amalgamation of the liquid consciencecial turmoil, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, currants, prunes, plums, blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, flan, vanilla, Bourbon, Brandy, oak, Chocolate Ice cream, Cadbury cream eggs, port wine, notes, sweetened condensed milk, dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice hints, banana sundae, Danish cream, Irish cream, capirotada raisin bread pudding, mocha and coffee notes.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, flan, vanilla, Bourbon, Brandy, oak, toasted coconut, chocolate mint ice cream, tobacco, molasses, leather, anise, rocky road ice cream, Cadbury cream eggs, port wine, notes, sweetened condensed milk, dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice hints, banana sundae, Danish cream, Irish cream, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark fruit raisins, figs, currants, prunes, plums, blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, marshmallow chocolate smores, waffle cone, rye bread, toffee, roasted coffee, mocha, espresso, Kahlua coffee liqueur, brown sugar, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, Chambord raspberry liqueur and red wine notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with toasted coconut, oak, chocolate, hazelnut, brandy, bourbon, dark fruit, caramel, vanilla, banana, dark candi sugar hints and coffee. Despite the ABV, the alcohol is not burning but the barrel oak of the spirit is greatly displayed. Dark abyss full body, smooth, cream, velvety, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Simply because I say so, this beer I consider a bucket lister. There maybe greater beers that blend 2 spirits, a good and evil spirit, but none that had some crazy influence to me when I first started reviewing beers. This beer was damn elusive at the time. In some cases, it still is an elusive beer. Regardless, this one still packing those great and rich bourbon and brandy complexities over dessert. Yes, the actual flavors of from the spirits are present while not giving alcohol in the flavor. Beers like these are ones I wish they made in 750ml bottles. Regardless, I highly recommend this double barrel aged brew, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Panty and Stocking Anarchy as well as Scanty and Kneesocks Daemon from Panty & Stocking w/ Garterbelt were all used in this pairing as it makes sense to use Angels versus Demons. Although this was the original ideal I had since I first reviewed this beer and one that I have expanded upon as I brought the beer to the site oh so long ago. That has not changed but I added more awesome pictures that work well with the pairings. So much love for the series and this beer.

Sources:
http://orig03.deviantart.net/e4da/f/2011/181/d/8/d8c4a943377c5d7258a73c5ea9a9eda6-d3kisoy.jpg
http://orig07.deviantart.net/eb8b/f/2011/134/3/2/panty_vs_scanty_by_lo_wah-d3gcxis.jpg
https://images.ttcdn.co/media/products/508428-5cc0a8ab0fdc4de8994c672cd8746854/s/tmilhouse/panty-and-stocking-0.jpeg
http://static2.fjcdn.com/comments/5072993+_3d8fb7e9b4b9a639485ec6ea921d06ad.png

2015 Dragon’s Milk Reserve “Double Dragon” Triple-Mashed Stout by New Holland brewing

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Double Dragon, Dragon's Milk, Dragon's Milk Reserve, Imperial Milk Stout, Imperial Stout, Milk Stout, New Holland Brewing, Sweet Stout, Toriel Dreemurr, Triple-Mashed Stout, Undertale | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2015 Dragon’s Milk Reserve “Double Dragon” Triple-Mashed Stout by New Holland brewing is a 14% ABV Imperial Milk/Sweet Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
“Double Dragon is triple-mashed Dragon’s Milk, aged in New Holland Artisan Spirits oak barrels. Intense malt character is paired with the toasted notes of American White Oak, Robust, yet balanced, Double Dragon is an experience all its own.

Pairings: The stinkiest cheese, darkest chocolate and a day off.

==Introduction==

Aged for two years hiding in the depths of the ends of the earth not to be disturbed until recently. The dragon has awoken. Well, it was not really found in some remote spot, but the excitement to get a chance to try the fabled, Double Dragon is definitely awesome. Since the first time I tried Dragon’s Milk, all those years ago, it was a beer that was my first and favorite from New Holland. I went out of my way to try to find the variants such as the raspberry and the coconut rum one and even the actual Bourbon that was made from this Beer. It was the inspiration and ingredient used In 2 of my special homebrews which came out awesome. So I feel that bringing this to the website is a damn honor for sure to one of my favorite beers. Will it hold up the original, let’s see, cheers!

Aromas:
Cadbury cream chocolate caramel eggs, Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, Chocolate mousse, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, hazelnut nectar, mocha coffee, espresso coffee, Kahlua Liqueur, Jamoca ice cream, Irish cream, fruit cake, sweetened condensed milk, tiramisu, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bourbon, Nutella, dark fruits like raisins, prunes, figs, blackberries, plums, raspberries, dark cherries, strawberries, currants and toasted rye.

Flavors:
Rich Rocky Road Ice cream, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, crème brulee, flan,Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, Chocolate mousse, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, hazelnut nectar, Nutella, oak, bourbon, toasted coconut, marshmallows, Major Dark fruits like raisins, prunes, figs, blackberries, plums, raspberries, dark cherries, strawberries, currants, mocha coffee, espresso coffee, Kahlua Liqueur, Jamoca ice cream, Irish cream, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, leather, steamed milk, Cadbury cream chocolate caramel eggs, peanut butter notes, cocoa crispies, fudge chocolate, toasted rye, brown sugar, fruit cake, Danish cream, pecan pie, truffle chocolate, tiramisu and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Rich mixed Chocolates, Caramel, Rocky Road, vanilla, oak, bourbon, earthy notes, marshmallows, nutella, coconut and cadbury cream eggs. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Aged has smoothed it out. Dark crimson full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and mildly syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A dragon unlike any other. A rare dragon like the three headed Final Fantasy Dragon, Tiamat. In liquid form. A bucket lister which I wish I had more of. For such a 12 ounce beer, much care and time must be taken. The flavors are super complex with an overall sweetness that lingers for a while. Nothing cloying but a malty complexity that can only be described as damn! A ton of roasty, oaky, bourbon and malty dark fruit comeplexity. I know there is a 2017 version of this beer that is even stronger but for this aging over 2 years, it is insane! It sure matured into a grand dragon for sure.I highly recommend getting this one!

Anime Corner:
Toriel Dreemurr from the Undertale series was chosen not for the fact that she is not a dragon (a caprine), but for the characteristics of a dragon. When I thought of milk from a dragon, especially reserve as well as dessert, I could think of no other character. In the game, she makes butterscotch or cinnamon pie and pie goes great with milk. So essentially, the beer pairing I think works well as a dessert. The fact that this was a stronger version of my favorite beer, I also had to choose a strong character.

Sources:
http://www.deviantart.com/art/undertale-welcome-my-child-606651582
http://68.media.tumblr.com/c9ae1b6af9d9deb890918e913e59980a/tumblr_ogpz5ccqrf1snoswqo1_500.png
https://static1.e926.net/data/3f/32/3f3263449063a40f0cc2dfa4dbf9ddf3.png
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/5rfmzGL-7xU/maxresdefault.jpg
http://pm1.narvii.com/6184/cf822a41c85a11d8a565d5e239bf0c3409db2fe9_hq.jpg
http://orig05.deviantart.net/c524/f/2016/181/5/8/toriel_pin_up__undertale__by_catcouch-d9dp09r.jpg

Novo Quadrupel by Novo Brazil

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Angel, Belgian Quadrupel, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Clown, Dizzy, Dragon Ball Super, God of Destruction, Guilty Gear, Novo Brazil, Novo Quadrupel | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Novo Quadrupel by Novo Brazil is a 12% ABV is a Belgian Quadrupel aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
San Diego brewed, Brazilian Inspired

Five types of malt and a noble trappist-style yeast grant this beautiful beer an extraordinary complexity. Our Quadrupel is aged in bourbon barrels, which lends it a deep layer of flavor. Enjoy it now or next year, but we recommend enjoying this brew in a proper glass at cellar temperature (50°F)

==Introduction==

I am always up for trying new Quadrupels, one of my favorite styles from Belgium. Therefore, when I saw this one, I was definitely intrigued. There are not many Bourbon Barrel or for that matter, spirit aged quadrupels out there. Any opportunity to try one or bring one to the website is always something that I pride on. Novo Brazil is a new brewery to San Diego and one I have not seen in the past. These guys seem to be brewing some nice beers so a good way to gauge would be to try this beer. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peach, piloncillo sugar cone, hazelnut nectar, marzipan, pecan pie notes, candied Oranges, Waffle cone, butterscotch, rye bread, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bourbon, oak, whiskey notes, rock candy, Belgian dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plum, prunes, dark cherry, honey dew melon and tamarind.

Flavors:
Candied Oranges, Waffle cone, butterscotch, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plum, prunes, oak, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bourbon, whiskey notes, rock candy, Belgian dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice, dark cherry, raspberry notes, preserved tangerines, toasted coconut bread, leathery notes, stone fruit peach, piloncillo sugar cone, chocolate notes, brown sugar, cinnamon, fruit cake, peppercorn, raw sun oranges, cane sugar, honey, honey dew melon, tamarind, capirotada raisin bread pudding, hazelnut nectar, marzipan, pecan pie notes, tropical fruit pineapple, dragon fruit and old mango.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with honey, dark fruits, chocolate, rock candy, oak, bourbon, oranges, rye bread, tropical notes, bananas and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste despite the 12% ABV, crimson amber hazy body, smooth, creamy, crisp, and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional quadruple! Unlike other quads, this one bring out the more candied orange like flavors but I think that is in part due to the bourbon barrel aging process. It still holds many of the complex flavors, which I love, from Quadrupels and more. I have noticed that some quads do enhance with dark chocolate or dark fruit flavors but this one is definitely more on the oak side. I highly recommend this one, definitely one to love!

Anime Corner:
One of the 12th Gods of Destruction and his angel from Dragon Ball Super as well as Dizzy from Guilty gear were chosen in this pairing for 2 reasons. One to pair with the tropical rain forest of the beer label theme and the Quadrupel style being linked to monks, abbeys, religious figures like angels and gods. The characters from DBS are new and are insanely powerful, thus indicating the strength of the new comers. Plus the colors work well with the label.

Sources:
http://orig12.deviantart.net/30b7/f/2017/022/1/f/dragon_ball_super_god_of_destruction_aka_joker_by_drrzolty-dawbgs0.png
http://charaud.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/165220/dizzy03_25.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/c/480×960/img-master/img/2017/01/25/04/51/44/61100647_p0_master1200.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ldt2ZQR.png

2017 Serpent’s Stout by The Lost Abbey

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian imperial Stout, Bleach, Dark Rukia, Evil Rukia, Ichigo, Ichigo Kurosaki, Imperial Stout, Kutchiki Rukia, Rukia Kuchiki, Serpent's Stout, The Lost Abbey, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 Serpent’s Stout by The Lost Abbey is an 11% ABV World Class Belgian Imperial Stout.

Label:
From the beginning of time, it was so decreed, “From the this Tree of Knowledge, you shall not eat this fruit”. Soon enough, the Serpent slithered through the Garden convincing Eve to taste the nectar from this forbidden fruit. Once bitten and shamed, she then tempted Adam. Together, their actions brought Original Sin upon our world.

Discontent to rest on his laurels the Serpent continued his cunning ways bringing forth more temptations. Ultimately, he foisted upon the world his own Serpent Stout – a liquid so dark and viscous that all who tasted soon fell victim to this evil incarnate. Some turned to false prophets seeking advice. None of it mattered. Each struggle revealed the battle between Good and Evil. And now that you are holding a bottle of this liquid, it is certain he has tempted even you… So, welcome to our Darker Side of Life – home of the Serpent Stout’s Original Sin and the tastiest beers known to man.

==Introduction==

It has been years since I last did a review on this beer. Being one of my top favorite brews of all time, I wanted to bring it back as it is sporting an awesome label design with some of my favorite colors. Therefore, I definitely took the opportunity to show that beer some love. One of the strongest stouts I had when I first started trying different beers and once that stuck to me, I was hooked on trying more. An evil looking brew with a pitch-black darkness that would seem malevolent but regardless is still very good. Even with the release of so many special stouts that would try to rival this one, to me, this can still go toe to toe despite others being barrel aged. Heck, Box Set Track #10 (Bat Out Of Hell) is the answer to that as it is the bourbon barrel version of this with coffee and chocolate. Anyways, tribute to the roots is always something I love doing, let us see what this is like after many years, cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, espresso, Khalua coffee liqueur, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate,marshmallow chocolate smores, toasted coconut hints, rocky road ice cream notes, Oak, tobacco, leather, dark candi sugar, anise, molasses, brown sugar, toffee, earthy hops, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, figs, bananas, Danish cream and capirotada raisin bread pudding hints.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Oak, tobacco, leather, dark candi sugar, anise, molasses, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, figs, bananas, mild phenolics, marshmallow chocolate smores, toasted coconut hints, rocky road ice cream notes, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, brown sugar, toffee, earthy hops, roasted coffee, espresso, Khalua coffee liqueur, raspberry notes, port wine hints, sweetened condensed milk hints, flan, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Danish cream, Irish cream coffee and chocolate mousse.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of earthy notes, dark chocolate, dark fruit, caramel, vanilla, oak, banana and dark candi sugar. No alcohol in the taste despite the 11%ABV. Pitch black dark abyss full body. Creamy, Smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A truly exceptional brew that is surely lasting the years. The flavors are just as complex, if not better, from what I remember. I may not remember every detail, but still an awesome beer. Lots of roasty notes, dark chocolate, dark fruits and flavors of Belgian dark stout and oak. It is not barrel aged but it has that aged oak feel to it. I highly recommend this one as it is definitely still one of my favorites out there.

Anime Corner:
Ichigo Kurosaki and Fade to Black Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach were the perfect pairing back then when I did a review for this beer still continuing the tradition are used to pair the Adam and Eve label. The aspect of Adam and Eve relate to Rukia and Ichigo since Rukia was possessed by evil twins and Ichigo tries to fight Rukia to try to save her from the possession. As you can see in the picture where Rukia attacks Ichigo, it is synonymous with Eve trying to lure Adam to eat the forbidden fruit. Crazy idea I had back then but damn it works. Hell, Serpent’s Stout is pitch black like the “Fade to Black” version of Evil Rukia. Definitely one of the best pairings I have for one of the original beers that started me into craft beer. Cheers!!

Sources:
http://images6.fanpop.com/image/polls/1133000/1133279_1350862708265_full.jpg?v=1350863217
https://image.tmdb.org/t/p/w1280/8bhxW4w4wQdPdIWEkPIsXeRZcPU.jpg
https://images3.alphacoders.com/827/82715.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/39/4a/df/394adfd598e65b1debc3a17f03ceda18.jpg

Exorcism of Rachel Wall by Clown Shoes brewing

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Adventure Time, clown shoes, Exorcism of Rachel Wall, Marceline, Rum barrel aged, smoked Imperial Stout, Tahitian Vanilla Beans, Undead Party Crasher, Vampire Queen, Vampire Slayer, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Exorcism of Rachel Wall by Clown Shoes brewing is a 10.75% ABV Holy Smoked Imperial Stout aged in Rum Barrels with Tahitian Vanilla Beans added.

Label:
Unfortunately, there was another incident in front of Sunset Grill in Allston and this time the ghost Rachel Wall emerged from the wreckage. She was a true pirate, and the last woman to be hanged in Massachusetts, and we felt that a fitting remembrance would be to fill 14 rum barrels with Undead Party Crasher and add Tahitian vanilla beans. Rachel, we know you have fury from beyond the grave, but cut it out with the possessions please.

==Introduction==

What a great way to start the year off with a new entry in the ever growing spirit aged brews from Clown Shoes. While this one seems similar to the Hammer of the Holy, this one I do believe used a different Rum and specific vanilla beans making it a different beer overall. With the way the brews go for Clown Shoes, they are always amazing and above exceptional. I would expect no different from this one so let’s take a look and see how the spirit changes the undead party crasher as well as the use of different types of Vanilla beans. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries, Rum, smoked malt, Oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallows, fudge Chocolate, dark Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, licorice, anise, stone fruit, peach, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, brown sugar, tropical notes of pineapple, and passion fruit.

Flavors:
Rich Fudge Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, dark fruit raisins, prunes,currants, blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallows, Rum, smoked malt, Oak, tropical notes of pineapple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, strawberry cheese cake, Danish cream, Irish cream, coffee cake, stone fruit, peach, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, brown sugar, Pancho Pantera Milk shake, licorice, anise and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with chocolate, dark fruit, rum, vanilla, caramel, sweetened condensed milk, stone fruit hints, tropical notes, coffee, milk shake notes and smokey oak. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Dark abyss full body, creamy, smooth velvety and semi chewy mouthfeel along with sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A definitely exceptional brew. I think the difference in the vanilla bean type used in this brew may have actually made things more complex. Maybe the rum, but it sure is an awesome brew. Like many of their barrel-aged beers, this one is not only complex but also even at the ABV, it is not boozy. It does not have any actual spirits but I am sure drinking enough of will definitely make you feel possessed. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Marceline The Vampire Queen from Adventure Time was used in this pairing as I wanted her to represent Rachel Wall as she possess the person in the story of the label. Marceline being undead and looking somewhat evil was something that I felt worked well with this pairing. Especially, since they used vampire slayer/undead party crasher for this one as the base beer, Marceline works well overall. The strength and flavors along with the colors of the label work well with Marceline as well.

Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/5346537207113925239.jpg?w=1600&v=qgPRYAwVdD0kW0apVrEiWNBxtT1v35kh-HZfFvxT8EE%3D
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-01-03-798692.jpeg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/16/00/44/1600447faf11a1958204e3f033084704.jpg
http://blog-imgs-63.fc2.com/j/i/n/jingaidaisuki/4496177d6500_2497164B_028_thumb.png

Space Cake #7 Anniversary Ale by Clown Shoes

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged 7th anniversary, Centennial, Citra, Clown Shoes Brewing, Ella, Galaxy, Idaho 7, india pale ale, IPA, Mosaic, Nelson Sauvin, Paladins, Princess Allura, Space Cake, Space Cake #7, Voltron, Voltron The Legendary Defender | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Space Cake #7 Anniversary Ale by Clown Shoes is a 7.7% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with the following 7 hops (Idaho 7, Mosaic, Citra, Ella, Galaxy, Centennial, and Nelson Sauvin)

Label:
Tasked with bringing cake to our 7th anniversary party, Miracle Mike needed to destroy the laser beam shooting pastries that menace him. He appears to have “borrowed” the birthday surprise from a young wizard who did not die. Dry hopped with seven hops (Idaho 7, Mosaic, Citra, Ella, Galaxy, Centennial, and Nelson Sauvin) this IPA salutes the industry and our customers. Thank you for a wonderful seven years!

==Introduction==

Space Cake is one damn delicious IPA. It has been a while since I tried the original. With this release, they took the base recipe and used 7 different hops to indicate their 7th anniversary. When I saw this was their actual Anniversary Ale, I wanted to bring it to the site. Clown Shoes has been one very amazing brewery making so many awesome beers and improving their spirit-blending portfolio with different brewing and aging techniques. I have been a big fan for the longest time and I am glad to present another awesome beer to the site. Here is to many, many years of brewing awesome brews. Cheers to Clown Shoes and all its fans!

Aromas:
Grapefruit, piney, grassy and garlicky hops, tropical fruits like mango, guava, pineapple, papaya, kiwi, passion fruit, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, stone fruit peach, honey, lemon zest, caramel, oranges, vanilla, biscuit bread and sweetened condensed milk notes.

Flavors:
Super tropics of Guava, Mango, Kiwi, Strawberry, pineapple, citrus, papaya, honey dew melon, cantaloupe, passion fruit, dragon fruit, grapefruit, piney, grassy and garlicky hops, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee hints, white chocolate cake, cherries, milk shake notes, pomegranates, raspberry hints, blueberries, vanilla, rye notes, biscuit bread, tangerine preserves, lychees, stone fruit peach, honey, waffle cone, orange preserves, caramel notes, lemon zest and fruit cake hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing up with lots of stone fruit, tropical fruit, vanilla, caramel, toffee, grapefruit, piney, citrus and herbal hops along with vanilla. No alcohol in the taste. Golden light body, creamy, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel, and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect IPA indeed. I loved the original Space Cake and this one with the additional hop varieties bring out more sweet tropics to the beer. While the original space cake had this sweetness that was awesome like if it was an actual cake, this one seems to amplify that slightly more while still packing a huge hop punch. Definitely give this one a go, a definite recommendation from me.
Anime Corner:
Princess Allura and the Paladins of Voltron The Legendary Defender were chosen in this pairing to go with the theme of space and the colors of cake but also the label colors. Since this was the 7th Anniversary, I wanted to pair with the paladins, Voltron and Allura. Voltron is a bad ass and having that mech in a pairing is always badass. The new designs for Allura are also amazing as well.
Sources:
http://orig09.deviantart.net/1678/f/2016/160/7/3/voltron_fake_poster_print_jpeg_by_steveahn-da5m2un.jpg
http://orig07.deviantart.net/40e2/f/2016/226/c/d/princess_allura_by_mimibert-dadyj00.jpg
http://klevinkeeni.deviantart.com/art/Princess-Allura-650662499
http://68.media.tumblr.com/87a68989359758ed33b38103c79310bd/tumblr_oemsmxyk5n1ru00pmo1_1280.png
http://img01.deviantart.net/ea9f/i/2016/255/7/1/voltron___allura_by_bisho_s-dahdzkt.jpg

Stone Enjoy By 02.14.17 Chocolate & Coffee IPA by Stone Brewing

February 7, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Chocolate, coffee, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, Enjoy by, Enjoy by series, Erza Scarlet, Fairy Tail, I Heart Chocolate, I Heart Coffee, I Heart Hops, india pale ale, IPA, Stone Brewing, Stone Enjoy By 02.14.17 | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

Stone Enjoy By 02.14.17 Chocolate & Coffee IPA by Stone Brewing is a 9.4% ABV Double India Pale Ale brewed with Chocolate and Coffee.

Label:
Brewed to Enjoyed Within 37 days

It’s not unusual to see pronouncements of “I Heart Hops,” “I Heart Chocolate” or “I Heart Coffee” throughout #socialmedia, printed on T-shirts and, natch, emblazoned on coffee cups. Over the past couple of decades we have helped add “I Freaking Heart IPAs” to that lexicon. Today, passionate people can’t imagine a world without all of the above. For this special edition, we added chocolate and coffee to make this devastatingly fresh IPA even more seductive to the palate. We humbly suggest that you use this libation to proclaim your love for someone… and we suggest that someone be you. Loving yourself is exactly what this libation is all about. Love now; remember forever.

A Rich Decadent IPA to Fall in Love With Now!

==Introduction==

Originally reviewed 1/19/2017 to meet within the 37 day mark, I brought this limited time beer to the site for the love of the original Mocha IPA. Essentially, I believe this is similar except it is a much fresher version and possibly different ingredients. While the other one says it is made with Cacao Nibs and this one says chocolate, depending on the type of chocolate would actually make the beer overall different. Heck, even the coffee too if they used a different type of coffee. Regardless, the Enjoy By series has been amazing overall for the many beer releases and now with this one, let us see what this is about. In time for Valentine’s day.

Aromas:
Grapefruit, piney, citrus, floral, grassy and garlicky dank hops, coffee, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, tiramisu, mocha, cherry, oranges, rye bream toffee, honey, tropical fruit mango, dragon fruit, tangerine gummies, rye bread, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie hints, and chocolate orange creamsicle notes.

Flavors:
Tiramasu pastry, vanilla, mocha, coffee, java, milk chocolate, chocolate mousse, Yoohoo Chocolate drink, Grapefruit, piney, citrus, floral, grassy and garlicky dank hops, dark cherry, biscuit bread, tropical fruit mango, tangerine gummies,dragon fruit, honey, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, cookies and cream, Jamoca ice cream, caramel, toffee, rye bread, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate orange creamsicle, lactose, milk sugar, flan, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate cherry cordial, hopped coffee cake, crème brulee, Irish cream, Danish cream, maple syrup hints and green tea ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with notes of coffee, mocha, chocolate, vanilla, cherry, green tea ice cream, citrus, earthy and piney hops, tropical notes and cookies and cream. No alcohol in the taste, Golden clear body, smooth, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and very easy to drink.

Overall:
Definitely above exceptional. Lots of chocolate and coffee mix very well with the tropical flavors of the already awesome Enjoy By series. Many may think this may not work but I really enjoyed this one. With the brewing method they used to make this one and possibly since its “fresh”, this brew is definitely way above the Mocha IPA. It is more flavorful and as a result, higher ABV. I really hope this one is released again. Regardless, this one I highly recommend. Get it before Valentine’s day.

Anime Corner:
Erza Scarlet from Fairy Tail was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to pair a strong and hoppy beer with a strong character that pairs with the colors of the label and Valentine’s day. While I have mainly used Morrigan in these Enjoy by Beers, this different beer called for a change using a character who is bad as and arrogant like the brews from Stone. Awesome sauce.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Erza.Scarlet.full.2051049.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2015/12/30/866911/big_thumb_2fb4f290648a6984954e353def4373b7.jpg
https://k60.kn3.net/taringa/2/7/4/6/4/3/47/demonslayer77/095.jpg

2016 La Parcela No.1 by Jolly Pumpkin

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Bleach, cacao, Ichigo Kurosaki, Inoue Orihime, jolly pumpkin, Kakashi Hatake, KON, La Parcela, La Parcela No.1, Matsumoto, Naruto, pumpkin ale, pumpkins, Rukia, Rukia Kuchiki, sakura Haruno, Sasuke Uchiha, sour, sour pumpkin ale, Spices, Tsunade | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2016 La Parcela No.1 by Jolly Pumpkin is a 5.9% ABV American Wild /Sour Pumpkin Ale brewed with Pumpkin, Spices and Cacao.

Label:

Ok, so the joke was that “Jolly Pumpkin doesn’t brew a pumpkin beer.” Well, now we do. Packed with real pumpkins, hints of spice, and a gentle kiss of cocoa to liven the soul. An everyday easy way to fill your squashy quotient. Guess now folks will have to find something else to joke about…

==Introduction==

It’s been years since I have last tried this beer. The first and I think, still the best pumpkin sour for the longest time. Since they started releasing new labels for their beer, I wanted to bring some of them back to the website. This one caught my eyes especially due to the artwork. So naturally, I had to seek it out and bring this brew back to the website. Even if it is past Halloween, these beers are awesome anytime of the year. Which reminds me how I wish sometimes that they brew them all the year round. So let us see how one of the, if not, the best pumpkin sour beers in the world is since I last tried it. Cheers!

Aromas:

peppercorn, vanilla, caramel, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, pumpkin pie, brown sugar, cinnamon, chocolate notes, piloncillo sugar cone, nutmeg, passion fruit, mango, oak, citrus, wine grapes, hibiscus, sweet potato pie, bananas and clove spice.

Flavors:

Rich Stone fruit peaches, apricot, pumpkin pie, pumpkin flesh, cinnamon, Dark chocolate, white chocolate, sweet potatoes, sweet squash, flowers, hibiscus, honey, waffle cone, bananas, piloncillo sugar cone, clove spice notes, brown sugar, funky oak, cane sugar, citrus, tangerines, kumquats, wine grapes, white grapes, nutmeg, phenolic notes, peppercorn, vanilla, caramel, sour apples, mango notes and passion fruit.

Aftertaste:

Finishing with rich stone fruit peaches, funky sour white grape notes, pumpkin flesh, chocolate, lemon peel and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, Golden amber hazy body, smooth, crisp, and effervescent mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:

Still the perfect pumpkin sour. With a name like Jolly Pumpkin for a brewery, you would definitely want to make a really delicious pumpkin beer and this is it. For the brewery that started my sour path in the beginning, this was one of the best ways to go. Since their focus is on sours, they can really get brews to taste very delicious and not strictly lactic sour. These funky tart beers are amazing and this one in particular is full of pumpkin goodness which really balances out the tartness overall. Highly recommended like other JP beers.

Anime Corner:

Naruto and Bleach characters for Halloween as well as Succubus/Devil Rukia Kutchiki were chosen for this review since the first review of this beer. So I wanted to bring them back to go with the new beer label. I think Rukia makes it better especially the one where she is inside the pumpkin and has the cat like and devil features that fit the label.

Sources:

http://orig06.deviantart.net/7716/f/2011/304/3/a/___happy_halloween_2011____by_arathar-d4em95e.jpg
http://img13.deviantart.net/5462/i/2009/297/3/9/devil_rukia_by_gray_fullbuster.jpg

http://static.zerochan.net/Kuchiki.Rukia.full.1653356.jpg

Hazelutely Choctabulous by Rogue brewing

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Asuka, Asuka Langley, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Shikinami Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, Candy Bar, Chocolate, Chocolate Stout, cuvee, hazelnut, Hazelnut Brown Nectar, Hazelutely Choctabulous, Neon Genesis Evangelion, nutella, Rogue Ales, rogue brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Hazelutely Choctabulous by Rogue brewing is a 5.7% ABV American Cuvee of 60% Hazelnut Brown Nectar brewed with Natural Flavor and 40% Chocolate Stout brewed with Chocolate.

Label:
Candy Bar In A Bottle

Dedicated to Seb and Chris
For years, our hardest core local fans have been drinking a blend of Chocolate Stout and Hazelnut Brown Nectar, they say it takes like a chocolate candy bar. we have taken these two absolutely fabulous beers and fused them together to create Rogue Hazelutley Choctabulous, dark and decadent with a rich nutty flavor up front followed by a chocolate truffle finish. We’re thrilled to share our little secret with the world.

Brewed Using 2 Ingredients:
Hazelnut Brown Nectar & Rogue Chocolate Stout.
14.5° Plato 75 IBU 75.3AA 74°L

==Introduction==

Hazelnut Brown Nectar has been one of my top favorite brews since I first started trying different craft beers. Even to this day, If I see it on the taps or on the store, I definitely get it. When I first heard they were releasing a Chocolate version of the Hazelnut Brown by combining the 2 recipes of beer, this was something I did not want to miss out on. A candy bar in liquid form. There have been many nutty chocolate beers especially hazelnut chocolate beers that I have tried before. However, with this one, I will have to remember and compare to the original Hazelnut nectar to see if I love this one as much as the Hazelnut Brown Nectar or even more. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, chocolate mousse, Ferrero Chocolate, Nutella hints, mocha, coffee, biscuit bread, vanilla, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow hints, pecan pie, and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich Nutella flavors, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, pralines, marzipan, mazapan, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, chocolate mousse, Ferrero Chocolate, Chocolate Truffles,
cashew butter, peanut butter, butterscotch, toffee, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, chocolate smores, toasted coconut hints, hints of rocky road ice cream, dark fruit raisin notes, banana, cherry hints, apricot hints mocha, coffee, java and brown sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, caramel, dark fruit hints and toffee. No alcohol in the taste. Dark medium to full body. Smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and easy drinkability.

Overall:
While it is no Grey Monday, this beer is insane! It mainly gets the praise from me since I was such a fan of the original in the beginning that this takes it a bigger step above. I think while the beer is not super rich, it still has all the flavors of chocolate and hazelnut that will not overwhelm the average beer drinker. Personally, I would go with Grey Monday but that beer is night today in comparison. Even so, as a tribute to the original, I highly recommend people try this one and I hope to get this one again!

Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley Shikinami Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion was chosen to return for this brew as I chose her to be the one in the original Hazelnut Brown Nectar. The idea was that she represents a punch of flavors and hair hazelnut colored hair represented the colors of the beer but also the flavors. Since this one impacts a greater flavor profile, it would only make sense to make her comeback hitting much harder than before.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/3a/58/2d/3a582d9edeb185d5603593bf4857a66a.jpg
http://k37.kn3.net/taringa/1/2/4/2/4/0/03/marduk5233/723.jpg?3917
https://wallpapers.wallhaven.cc/wallpapers/full/wallhaven-411474.jpg
http://pm1.narvii.com/6102/ad6ccd4128b194f3e01e8a12bfbea0743aed3532_hq.jpg

Cherry Chocolate Milk Stout by Garage Brewing Co.

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Amy Rose, Cherry Chocolate, cherry juice, Chocolate, Dark Amy Rose, Garage Brewing Company, Milk Stout, Naruto, sakura Haruno, Sonic The Hedgehog, Sweet Stout, tart cherry juice | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Cherry Chocolate Milk Stout by Garage Brewing Co. is a 7.1% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout with Chocolate and Tart Cherry Juice

Label:
We believe in making out fresh craft beer from only the finest ingredients. And guess what? It’s a perfect way to end any meal or an evening of indulgence. No need to order dessert with this flavor combination. Flavor: Sweet Milk chocolate, Cherry; Aroma: Mocha, Dark Fruit; Balance: Rich; Body: Full.

==Introduction==

I first saw this one on a social media post by Garage Brewing a while back. Being a fan of fruit beers and especially the love I have for their Marshmallow Milk stout, I had to bring this one to the site. I have had a ton of cherry beers to the site especially the ones I have made home brewing myself. Much like raspberries or blueberries, beers like that have a home here. So with that being said, I was really excited to see if this one had what it takes to compare with the best cherry stouts I have had in the past. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, tootsie roll chocolate, chocolate milkshakes, Dark fruit cherries, dark cherries, tart cherry skins, raisins, prunes, currants, blueberries, strawberry cheese cake, cherry yogurt, chocolate cherry cordial, butterscotch, brown sugar, banana and hazelnut nectar hints.

Flavors:
Sweet & Tart Cherries, Dark Cherries, Cherry Yogurt, Chocolate cherry cordials, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, tootsie roll chocolate, choco flan, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, currants, blueberries, strawberry cheese cake, marshmallow smores, chocolate cherry cake, Pancho Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, fruit cake, pecan pie, brown sugar, anise, molasses and pecan pie.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with cherry cordials, milk chocolate, flan, vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, dark fruit and dark cherry yogurt notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional beer! Very much like a cherry chocolate sweet and tart cordial. The beer is semi sweet and semi tart. A good balance of complex flavors all around. The best part too is that I think those that do not drink craft beer may really dig this one. So this may actually entice more people to drink craft beer. Just goes to prove, Garage is doing some amazing beers. The fact that this is a lot like a cherry cordial is the reason I provided the score I did. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Dark Amy Rose from Sonic the Hedgehog series was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the colors of dark cherry with a girl similar to Sakura Haruno, which Amy Rose comes to mind. Although, since this was essentially like a chocolate cherry cordial but not to the level of the Bruery’s BBL Cordial, I brought Amy. Essentially, tart dark cherry chocolate cordial light and yet still full of rich flavors.

Sources:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rVtou3oCbV4/maxresdefault.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8twpTcSTdc/WA9WqtE8G4I/AAAAAAAACxk/yorUZBQviKECzGF5swMR_TFGZHqaisMFQCJoC/w1024-h1219/tumblr_o4r8ra6bPk1uk1hd1o1_1280.png
http://img12.deviantart.net/3708/i/2015/214/d/0/amy_rose_pinup_by_proboom-d93u6do.jpg

Michigan Maple Jesus by Evil Twin brewing

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Evil Twin Brewing, Imperial Stout, Maple Syrup Barrels, Michigan Maple Jesus, Pyrrha Nikos, Rwby, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Michigan Maple Jesus by Evil Twin brewing is a 12% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Maple Syrup Bourbon Barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Imperial stout aged in Maple Syrup Bourbon Barrels. Produced and bottled for Evil Twin Brewing at Dark Horse Brewing Co, Marshall, MI.

==Introduction==

It has been years since I last tried the Even More Jesus from Evil Twin. I have heard a lot of great things from their variants and have also heard that it is hard to find these beers sometimes. Lucky for me I was able to find this one. A little bottle indeed, but something I really wanted to bring to the sire specially since it was in the series. I had also heard that this one was insanely coveted as well, so even more of a reason to bring it to the site. Although, I would of liked a 22oz. of this. Nevertheless, the show must go on, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, maple syrup, pancakes, anise, molasses, smokey notes, BBQ, marzipan, pecan pie, almond joy, toasted coconut, mocha, Irish cream, dark fruit cherries, plums, currants, raisins, raspberries, blackberries, marshmallow smores, bourbon, whiskey, rich oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel and rye bread.

Flavors:
Rich Maple Syrup, molasses, anise, licorice, Smokey, BBQ, smokey campfire notes, toasted coconut, marshmallow smores, bourbon, whiskey, rich oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, rye bread, leather, tobacco, brownie batter, dark fruit cherries, plums, currants, raisins, raspberries, blackberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, grilled bananas, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolates, Kahlua Coffee liqueur, almond milk, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, marzipan, roasted coffee, mocha, Irish cream coffee, Danish cream, cookies and cream and candied bacon.

Aftertaste:
Finishing Maple rich, dark fruit, anise, chocolate, vanilla, caramel, oak, coconut, bourbon, mocha coffee, sweetened condensed milk and almond marzipan. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark abyss body. Rich, velvety, smooth and creamy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A definite bucket lister. I had no idea of the crazy potential from this one. Rich maple, chocolate and super fancy coffee complexity taking things to a different level. It is a step above the original as the maple brings in some new characteristics to the table causing the original to shine even more. While this is only a small bottle, it is a kicker. Although me being me, I would have loved a 22oz. It will age very well. I highly recommend getting this one.

Anime Corner:
Pyrrha Nikos from RWBY was chosen for this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label mainly and maple syrup colors of red. The other part is the name of Jesus being used in the beer as I see is as representing something Christian and therefore angelic. While this beer in itself maybe a spoiler to some fans of the RWBY show who are not past RWBY Vol. 3, it was necessary for me to elaborate why Pyrrha as an angel works for this beer in relation. The beer gets you closer to the divine if it is not divine itself.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6c/1d/2b/6c1d2b0068892293128804399f16589c.jpg
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/205/017/3a5.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cy8reIJVQAARaur.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Crny-55UEAI4__k.jpg
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/152/522/0e5.jpg_large

Nitro Red Velvet by Ballast Point

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, Ballast Point, Beets, Chocolate, Golden Stout, natural flavors, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Oatmeal Stout, Red Velvet, Red Velvet Cake, Red Velvet Stout | 1 Comment

Rating: 5/5

Nitro Red Velvet by Ballast Point is a 5.5% ABV Golden Oatmeal Stout with Beets, Chocolate and Natural Flavors added.

Commercial Description:
This stout takes the cake.
Our Red Velvet oatmeal stout is a mind-bending beer. Like the cake that inspired it, the deep red color comes from beets, which add a rich, earthy character that complements the chocolate flavor and aroma. The foamy head of the nitro pour is our “icing”, adding a creamy smoothness to the mouthfeel. But this liquid dessert still finishes like a beer – not sweet, but just as satisfying.

==Introduction==

It has been a very long time since I tried a Red Velvet Cake like beer. In fact, the only one I can remember was the Red Velvet from Buffalo Bayou brewing that my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetal.net provided me with. That one was damn amazing and one I would have greatly love to get again. Now with Ballast Point creating their own, I feel like this would be supremely interesting. First and for most is the color. They took a pale golden stout and with the beets were able to get a red stout color. Something I have not seen before. Finally, the chocolate and other flavors would the stout flavors and mouthfeel. Let’s take a good look at how this turns out, Cheers!

Aromas:
Vanilla, chocolate, toffee, caramel, brown sugar, red velvet cake notes, raspberry cheesecake notes, coffee notes, cinnamon, Danish cream and dark fruit.

Flavors:
Rich red velvet cake, chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, toffee, dulce de leche notes, white chocolate, dark fruit raisins, cranberry, cherry, fruit cake, cinnamon, Danish cream, beet juice hints, Irish cream notes, strawberry shortcake notes, raspberry cheesecake notes, roasted coffee notes, lactose, flan notes, brown sugar, pecan pie, cherry cordial notes and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lots of notes of vanilla, chocolate coffee, dark fruit notes, earthy hops and white chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, Ruby and Magenta clear body, smooth, creamy slightly thin but slightly velvety mouthfeel and very easy to drink.

Overall:
Now that’s insane. This is damn liquid Red Velvet cake!! I think if it was more full bodied and richer it would be much higher in my opinion. Although this being nitro and smooth gives points as well as this being very unique. Enough to be not just a perfect beer but exceptional. Regardless, this beer is one I want to get more of whether on tap or on bottles. Red Velvet beers are hugely uncommon so this is something you definitely want to get. I highly recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Asuka Soryu Langley Shikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion was used in this pairing as I wanted to get a pairing that would fit the whole feast fit for a king/queen theme. I have used 2 of these of pictures before but I had to bring them back as well as an additional one with Asuka wearing the crown and the eye patch. Not only does it fit with the king on the label but the Ballast Point theme of Fish and Pirates. A pirate king/queen. That and the whole red theme is all over with Asuka.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/JboO4Cq.jpg
http://arhivach.org/a_cimg/?h=462d7471529bfb9a650cf676aea4ea28

Tropical Torpedo by Sierra Nevada

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged amarillo, Citra, Comet Hops, El Dorado, Hatsune Miku, india pale ale, IPA, league of legends, mosaic hops, Sierra Nevada, Sona, Tropical Torpedo, vocaloid | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

Tropical Torpedo by Sierra Nevada is a 6.7% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with Amarillo, Mosaic, Citra, El Dorado and Comet Hops.

Label:
Inspired by the island life, we created an IPA completely disconnected from the mainland. We used our one-of-a-kind Hop Torpedo to deliver an intense rush of hop flavor and the lush aromas of mango, papaya, and passion fruit with every sip. Enjoy our tropical twist on the American IPA.

==Introduction==

It has been a long time since I brought a Sierra Nevada brew to the site. Many of them like the Celebration, Narwhal and their Ovila series are some of my favorites. When I saw they released a “tropical” version of their torpedo, I definitely wanted to bring it to the site. I have not tried torpedo in years and it will be interesting to see how using whole cone hop versions of these newer and modern hops will have affected the beer’s profile in terms of the aromas and flavors. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of tropical fruit like mango, pineapple, kiwi, passion fruit, guava, stone fruit peaches, mild toasted coconut hints, floral, grassy, dank, grapefruit, pine and garlicky hops.

Flavors:
Floral, grassy, dank, grapefruit, pine and garlicky hops, biscuit bread, vanilla, tropical fruit kiwi, mango, papaya, passion fruit hints, pineapple notes, lemon peel, tangerine gummy hints, stone fruit apricot, peach, honey, citrus peel, candied orange, toffee, sourdough bready hints, crackers and grape hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with lots of dank garlicky and piney hops along with some tropical fruit hints. No alcohol in the taste. Honey golden clear body, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A pretty good IPA. It does not present the full rush of tropical punch as I have come to love from many IPAs but it sure is hinted. Better than the original torpedo for sure. I think the tropical aspects are represented better in the aromas than they are in the flavors. In the flavors, you definitely get danker west coast hop flavors than malty or tropical flavors. I would recommend giving this one a shot but there are better tropical beers out there.

Anime Corner:
Sona from League of Legends and Vocaloid Hatsune Miku look a lot alike so I used them for this pairing as they pair with the colors of the label mainly but also the theme of this being a tropical beer. Sitting at the beach on a summer’s day relaxing, that is what this beer is about.

Sources:
http://images.battlecomics.co.kr/board/238978/image-boardid_238978-cut_0-w_900-h_803-t_20160220140636.jpg
https://static.acg12.com/uploads/2016/09/dc06b4b316b6d3ed4529c8fa721ebeb7.jpg

Papa’s ‘601 Figure 8 (∞) Racin Rocky Road Stout by Brew Rebellion

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Asmodeus, Astaroth, Brew Rebellion, Imperial Stout, Papa's '601 Figure 8 (∞) Racin Rocky Road Stout, rocky road ice cream, Rocky Road Stout, Shinra Bansho | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Papa’s ‘601 Figure 8 (∞) Racin Rocky Road Stout by Brew Rebellion is a 10.1% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Rocky Road

Label:
None!

==Introduction==

Obtained this one at Mr. K’s liquor near the Bruery. When I first saw this one with all the nuts on the wax, I was genuinely intrigued. Just like their previous use of cereal on the wax with their other beers, this one had wax with nuts on it. The label read that it was a Rocky Road Stout. I had to reread it again. Rocky Road Stout!? Like, actual ice cream flavors? Not Rocky road flavors derived by complex barrel aging or the use of special nuts, vanilla and chocolate? This I had to see. Especially with their success of the Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal beers which regardless of using natural flavors and/or the real deal, I still love them. Yes, I am not that picky and generally open to a lot of beers as long as they are flavorful So with that said, I decided to bring this one home with me. While a being pretty new brew, I have not seen this one elsewhere but a brew that is specifically geared to the awesome marshmallow, chocolate and nutty flavor I am all for it. Let’s a have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Danish cream, Oreos Cookies and cream, cookie dough ice cream, almond joy, coconut, coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate mousse, marshmallow, Jamoca ice cream, pistachio ice cream, Marzipan, dark cherry, sweet cherries, rich vanilla, white chocolate, rocky road ice cream, dulce de leche caramel, trail mix, mazapan, brown sugar, dark candi sugar and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich Rocky road ice cream flavors, Marzipan, dark cherry, sweet cherries, rich vanilla, white chocolate, almond joy, coconut, coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate mousse, marshmallow, Jamoca ice cream, pistachio ice cream, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Bubulubu Raspberry marshmallow chocolates, crème brulee, brown sugar, dark candi sugar, dark fruit currants, earthy hop notes, graham crackers, toffee, Danish cream, Oreos Cookies and cream, cookie dough ice cream, almond red velvet cake, peanut butter mazapan, trail mix, macadamia nuts, cashew butter, walnut ice cream, prailines, dulce de leche caramel and chocolate capirotada bread pudding.

Aftertaste:
Finish with still lingering rocky road ice cream, vanilla, dark cherries, coffee, crème brulee, dark fruit, mixed nuts and trail mix. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body appearance, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional beer that I would certainly say was amazing. There so much rich flavors from the rocky road but there is a lot of complexity coming out reminding me of all sorts of nuts, chocolate, sweets, dark fruits and much much more. I think this should actually be a bucket lister really simply because I enjoyed it way too much. Just because of that. Yes, it is exceptional on its own because they got the flavors to be simply like a liquid ice cream but mainly because I enjoyed it too much. I need another bottle and highly recommend you get one too!

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus and Astaroth from Shinra Bansho were chosen in this beer not for any specific reason other than the flavors, dark label and infinity flavors. A dark bottle which no apparent evil yet dark. Sounds amazing to me especially since these demons are not evil. Asmodeus primarily is the one I use the pairing with though as she seems very mysterious. Also, infinity and figure 8 can represent an eternity.

Sources:
http://i1.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/03/02/21/29/09/49054468_p0.jpg
http://i1.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/06/06/01/23/59/50742436_p0.jpg
http://i3.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/11/16/23/59/13/53593662_p0.jpg
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-shinrabanshou-asmodeus-astaroth-2190628.png

2017 Befuddlement by The Bruery Terreux

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Wild Ale, American Wild Rye Ale, anniversary ale, Befuddlement, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Boysenberries, Oak, Old Ale, Overwatch, Rye Ale, sour ale, Sucre, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, widow maker | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 Befuddlement by The Bruery Terreux is a 9.9% American Wild Rye Ale with Boysenberries aged in oak and bourbon barrels.

Label:
None.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Befuddlement is a Hoarders Society exclusive blend of our Sour In The Rye and our bourbon barrel aged old-ale, Sucré, with the addition of an incredible number of boysenberries. This deep purple beer is textured with sweet notes of caramelized malts, spicy rye, oak, juicy berries and a pleasantly sour funk. It’s a rather befuddling meld of flavors with an outcome that we couldn’t enjoy more.

==Introduction==

Released for Reserve and Hoarders societies only, this one was I never had chance to try. Based on the blending process it looks like they blended BBA Sucré with this one which is an awesome anniversary brew from a couple of years ago. It was the time when they started barrel aging in different spirits and have not stopped since. Special Barrel variants are awesome but the mix of that with other awesome beers creates something even more unique. Essentially, their mixed sour brews and Melangé series has been nothing but amazing. Each blend is unique while also some blends being more amazing than other blends. So let’s have a look at this one as it is a special sour blend with their anniversary. Cheers!

Aromas:
Cadbury Cream egg hints, marshmallows, graham crackers, brown sugar, banana hints, piloncillo sugar cone, dark cherry yogurt, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, strawberries, wine grapes, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, leather, boysenberry cobbler, boysenberry muffins, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, waffle cone, candy sugar, chocolate truffle notes and crème brulee hints.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, strawberries, wine grapes, vanilla, fruit cake, oak, Bourbon, chocolate, toffee, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, leather, boysenberry cobbler, boysenberry muffins, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, Cadbury Cream egg hints, marshmallows, graham crackers, brown sugar, banana hints, piloncillo sugar cone, dark cherry yogurt, waffle cone, candy sugar, chocolate truffle notes, crème brulee hints, raisin bread pudding, hibiscus, floral notes, toasted coconut hints and boysenberry cheese cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with lots of boysenberry flavor, dark fruits, tart boysenberry skins, boysenberry yogurt, oak, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, chocolate hints and floral notes. No alcohol in the taste. Crimson and Rose colored full body, crisp, effervescent, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
This exceptionally awesome brew can be best described as a tart boysenberry cobbler. There was a ton of berries and BBA Sucré to guarantee the flavors came out similar especially close to a tart boysenberry cordial. So I feel like I have been missing out especially after having this one. In fact, many special blended sours have been coming out really exceptional and hope they bring out more like this one. It was definitely worth the freebie from the Reserve allocation. I highly recommend this sour.

Anime Corner:
Widow Maker from Overwatch was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label, beer color and ingredients of the beer which all seem to match with the deep purple, reds and blues of her. This and the fact that this is the first time I use her in a pairing for the Bruery, the timing seemed perfect really. In a way, since she is mixed with Sucré, she looks a lot like Mari Ilustrious which I used in that beer but without the glasses and blue skin.

Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/I4whOtX72NxfDypPSY0bZelyW5XrEPw527qD7LPEZAagzs4bPu0b8ynnllKv1Rh.jpeg?w=1600&v=2-IjikrDIjBKJJXtrL4Lt6CxaOLlMtyhGtSlX_3qbJQ%3D
http://file2.instiz.net/data/file2/2016/07/29/f/9/8/f98ef897a8b4a370dcdaa5fd0d7c08b5.jpg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/6933583458898303643.jpg?w=1600&v=3AQIGa3dXAxVvk3ENQ9w1fAj0-PlXL548-kdzROxSCA%3D
http://pic.chinaz.com/2016/0614/1465870307917.png

2017 Rue D’Floyd collaboration between 3/Three Floyds, Dark Matter Coffee and The Bruery

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, beer collaboration, Black Lord, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Porter, cherries, Coffee Beans, Dark Lord, Dark Matter, FLCL, Floyd D'Rue, Haruko Haruhara, Imperial Porter, Naota Nandaba, Rue D'Floyd, The Bruery, Three Floyds, Unicorn Blood Coffee, vanilla beans | 1 Comment

Rating: 7/7

2017 Rue D’Floyd collaboration between 3/Three Floyds, Dark Matter Coffee and The Bruery is a 13.5% ABV Imperial Porter aged with Vanilla in Bourbon Barrels with Tart Cherries and Dark Matter Coffee.

Label:
DARK TUESDAY

This collaborative brew rises from the ashes in epic fashion, showcasing a heavy-handed display of barrel character, roastiness and dark fruit elements. It’s a testament to the spirit of continued experimentation

We regrouped with our friends at 3 Floyds to resurrect this imperial porter. Condemned to bourbon barrels for nearly a year, this one dark display of roasted malts, charred oak and blackened cherry character with notes of scorched baker’s chocolate. It’s pulled from the depths with sweet vanilla beans, tart cherries and Dark Matter Coffee, holding the palate prisoner and perpetuity.

==Introduction==

Released to Hoarders and Reserve Society alike, it has been years since the release of this beer. Since the issue they had with the quality of the initial release, they did not want to risk bad bottles back then which really turned people off from this beer. I remember when this first came out I got it to the site as soon as possible and the beer was great! It was so great I was upset I would not see it again. Thank the beer dark lords it is back. This beer is what I think many people really wanted from the longest time. A collaboration with Three Floyds of Indiana to use their Dark Lord making skills at creating a massive beer with the Black Tuesday lords at the The Bruery. They have come together once again to create this literal liquid chaos of sense engulfing darkness. Now all I have left to say is how it can compare to however my brain can remember from the original. The best part is that it will not go bad! So cheers and hope you can get one, I am recommending it right off the bat!

Aromas:
Rich Mocha Cherry Cordials, Roasted coffee, espresso, fancy coffee, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, kopi luwak coffee, Cherry Nutella, chocolate cherry cobbler, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, fudge chocolate, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, prunes, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, cookies and cream, white chocolate, oatmeal, oak, bourbon, anise, tobacco, leather, cinnamon and port wine.

Flavors:
Super Rich Mocha Cherry Cordials, port wine, Raspberry Chambord, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, flan, cinnamon, crème brulee, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, cookies and cream, white chocolate, oatmeal, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, fudge chocolate, cherry chocolate cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, prunes, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, roasted coffee, espresso, kopi luwak coffee, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Bananas, hazelnut nectar, chocolate cherry cobbler, cherry nutella, Irish cream, Danish cream, pecan pie, Banana split chocolate cherry sundae and dulce de leche caramel.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich mocha, dark chocolate, cherry cordial, bourbon, milk chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, banana split chocolate cherry sundae, oak, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream
No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, dark pitch black full body, smooth, creamy, chewy, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
I almost forgot how delicious this beer was that when I finally had again it all came back to me. This is indeed, is really a bucket lister. No joke. I had really forgotten why I loved this beer so much until I brought to the site once again. It was so influential, that I am actually making a stout to mimic the insanity of this collaboration. This beer is literally Liquid Cherry Mocha. Like the Life is Like brew I had years ago, this one continues and continues. With this fresher batch, I hope you are able to find this one but definitely hope that the Bruery keeps releasing this one. A must GET!

Anime Corner:
Haruko Haruhara and Naota Nandaba from FLCL (Fooley Cooley) were used in this pairing to show case the colors of the label, the flavors, the collaboration, the ticking time bomb aspect and just the insane aspect that this collaboration brings. Aside from the colors of the label. Haruko represent the cherries and the coffee as well as the very dangerous aspect of the beer. The smoothness of the beer can be seen in the cuteness of her demeanor but don’t ever let that fool you. This woman is demented and insane. Cute on the outside, monster on the inside. Naota Nandaba, is the admirer which you can think of him providing the extra flavors as being the main character of the series. Now the ticking time bomb has to do with the short temper that Haruko has and the short time that these 2 have together. I won’t spoil the story, but c’mon, it is such a great series…. for only being 6 episodes long!! There, you have no excuse not to watch FLCL… now just like I said before… Go get this beer, find the show and watch it! You will be in for a ride!

Sources:
https://ugc.kn3.net/i/origin/http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/h476/santo969/501623.jpg?t=1298836348
http://wallpapersonthe.net/wallpapers/l/haruko_haruharu_flcl_anime_vespa_haruko-8042.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/60/aa/dc/60aadcb626bc6e0e3116c0ae5ef18dc7.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I2yHaMXsWRs/WBU65zSeaMI/AAAAAAAADfI/jGUBAKYYpUsA2JD6ShTPtr76MBfEpIS6QCJoC/w426-h400/16%2B-%2B1

2017 Mash & French Toast by The Bruery

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barleywine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Cinnamon, Darkstalkers, Maple Syrup, MASH, Mash & French, nutmeg, Q-Bee, The Bruery, Vampire Savior, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 Mash & French Toast by The Bruery is a 13.4% ABV Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla, Cinnamon and Nutmeg, Natural Flavors and Maple Syrup.

Label:
NO UTENSILS
We took Mash, drizzled it with more gooey barrel character and added a morning mix of spices and maple notes.

This is our bourbon barrel-aged barley wine ale, Mash, joining forces with even stickier malt-forward forces from our barrel warehouse to create the gooey-sweet profile you’d expect from a French toast-like creation. It rouses the senses with hints of caramel and rich maple character, summoning spices and warm vanilla notes.

==Introduction==

Released to the Reserve Society in 2017 with a possible release to the public. This is a new iteration for the Mash series. There have been many variations recently ranging from coffee, vanilla, coconut and now French Toast. The last time I can remember trying a French Toast like brew was when my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetal.net sent me the “Brunch Money” by Armadillo Works in Texas. This one is quite unique as there aren’t many “French Toast” beers out there in general but based on the addition of ingredients in this beer, I can only tell that this is going to just like or close to French Toast as possible. Let’s take a look and see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Cadbury Chocolate cream eggs, sweetened condensed milk, French Toast maple syrup, toffee, butterscotch, caramel, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, waffle cone, clove spice, bananas, dark fruit prunes, plums, cherry, rocky road ice cream, rum soaked raisins, toasted coconut, chocolate marshmallow smores, graham crackers, pecan pie, vanilla, oak, bourbon and flan hints.

Flavors:
Rich French Toast maple syrup, toffee, butterscotch, caramel, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, waffle cone, nutmeg, fruit cake, vanilla, oak, bourbon, rum soaked raisins, dark fruit prunes, plums, coffee cake, brown sugar, Danish cream, milk chocolate truffles, toasted coconut, marshmallow, chocolate smores, graham crackers, pecan pie, Cadbury Chocolate cream eggs, sweetened condensed milk, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rocky road ice cream hints, French vanilla, crème brulee, anise, molasses, macadamia nuts, hazelnut, flan, almonds, bananas and clove spice.

Aftertaste:
Finishes and long lingers with rich French toast, maple syrup, toasted coconut, oak, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits and chocolate. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Dark Crimson honey medium body, smooth, creamy, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Ridiculous! This is damn exceptional! A bit boozy but will sure as hell age like a beast. Even now, I could tell, this is literally, freaking French Toast in liquid form. Granted, time will mellow out the slight alcohol from the flavor but to be honest it does not bother nor detract from the amazing flavors this already has. Yes, it is a brand new batch of barleywine right off the barrel but even so I can see how this will age awesomely. Their Mash series is definitely an amazing series and I hope to see more in the future. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Q-Bee from Darkstalkers was chosen even though the beer is made with maple and not honey. The reason I went with this because just like honey, maple syrup is just as sticky and added to breakfast items like French Toast or waffles was similarly sweet. Even the design of the label was closer to a honey comb. This and the fact that Q-Bee’s weapons are utensils, I think it worked out nicely. Bees are attracted to sweet maple syrup too!

Sources:
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn246/rise15/DarkStalkers-QueenBee01.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/12/14/13/05/51/54036163_p0.jpg
http://static.wixstatic.com/media/4608b1_3287cd81593047be9f0d235008414f14.jpg_srz_1573_880_85_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz
http://orig06.deviantart.net/2282/f/2015/044/c/8/qbee_keyshot_mainshot_by_llazar-d8hw9w3.jpg

The Coco Four Sons brewing

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Amber Ale, Four Sons Brewing, Haruka, piña colada, Pokemon, Red Ale, The Coco, Toasted Coconut, tropical amber | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

The Coco Four Sons brewing is a 5.2% ABV Amber Ale brewed with toasted organic coconut.

Label:
None

==Introduction==

When I first tried this beer a while back, I could only think of New Belgium’s Fat Tire if it was made richer and with coconut. In fact, it was so good, I had to have several pints of this one. I have tried many ambers before. Many delicious ones but it has been a while since I had one that was mainly malty like the way Fat Tire was. It is funny because a malty Amber ale is what would actually work better with toasted coconut I would think. So when Four Sons finally released the beer in cans, I was not going to wait around to tell people about this amazing beer. Easy to drink and lots of coconut. Now let us look at the canned version and see if it stands to the way I remember it from back then, cheers!

Aromas:
Biscuit bread, caramel, dark fruits, chocolate notes, almonds, toasted coconut notes, floral and earthy hops, hazelnut notes, macaroon notes, rye bread, tropical fruit hints, brown sugar and piña colada hints.

Flavors:
Rich toasted coconut, caramel, milk chocolate, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, piña colada, kiwi, strawberry, pineapple, rye bread, almond joy chocolate, vanilla, brown sugar, floral and earthy hops, flan notes, Irish cream hints, Danish cream notes, almonds, pecan pie hints, hazelnut hints, coconut macaroons and toffee.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with toasted coconut, piña colada notes, chocolate, caramel, biscuit bread and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, amber clear body, smooth, creamy and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
Very delicious and perfect coconut beer. I was genuinely surprised that this one had a tropical aspect to it. Something that I do not recall getting when I tried it from the tap. I think it actually adds to the beer’s already amazing flavor profile and makes it much better. While I have loved many toasted coconut stouts, seeing a different style with coconut such as this amber is definitely a new look at a somewhat frequent style. I definitely recommend this one, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Haruka from Pokemon was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to go mainly with the colors, label and ingredients of the beer and since the beer is more on the tropical side of things, getting some colorful characters seemed like the way to go too. Pokeballs = Coconut shapes?

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/4f/61/90/4f6190c751cb23ded66ec4d96ffce305.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Haruka.(Pokémon).full.1999749.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/f64d/i/2014/298/8/f/route_101_by_poch4n-d843jx6.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Haruka.%28Pokémon%29.full.1807758.jpg

Organic Raspberry by Samuel Smith Old Brewery

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Fruit Beer, Melbourn Bros, Naruto, Old brewery, Organic Raspberry, Raspberries, samuel smith, Tadcaster, Tayuya | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Organic Raspberry by Samuel Smith Old Brewery is a 5.10% ABV Fruit Beer brewed with Raspberries

Label:
Handcrafted at Melbourn Bros’ tiny Brewery set in a time warp in Stamford using the old manually operated brewing equipment. Finest organically grown barley and wheat are used to create a complex ale which, having undergone primary and secondary fermentation with different yeasts and extended maturation, is taken to Samuel Smith’s small, independent British brewery at Tadcaster. There it is blended with pure organic cherry, strawberry, raspberry or apricot fruit juices and more organic beer to create fruit beers of considerable strength and flavour. The smooth distinctive character of the matured beer serves as the perfect counterpoint to the pure organic fruit juice.

==Introduction==

Samuel Smith beers are some of the best well crafted beers from England. Starting with their oatmeal stouts, Organic Chocolate and even their English Strong Stingo. These beers are common in many places where beer is sold and many people sometimes pass them up. Well, seeing as I really enjoyed many of their offerings, I decided to bring another one of theirs here. This one is the raspberry fruit beer. With my ever increasing love for raspberries and beer, this one was a must. Now that I finally have it ready for the site let’s check it out, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich raspberries, biscuit bread, citrus, strawberry vanilla, cherries, marmalade, guava hints, floral hibiscus, grapes, apricot, passion fruit and mixed berries.

Flavors:
Raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, currant, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava hints, tomato hints, floral hibiscus, citrus, biscuit bread, roses, raspberry jolly ranchers, cherry cobbler, stone fruit apricot, raspberry marmalade, toasted rye bread, strawberry sundae, vanilla and Chambord liqueur hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a tart raspberry flavors, cherries, citrus, passion fruit, biscuit bread and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, ruby red clear body, crisp, rich, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer tasting exactly as intended. Essentially, this is literally pure raspberry brew. Nothing too crazy, light, and very attractive to non-beer drinkers. If this isn’t a gateway to craft beer, then there really isn’t much that can be helped. This is literally what it is going for and people that like wine and even mixed drinks will like this. Essentially, it almost feels like an alcoholic soda. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Tayuya from Naruto was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to go with the whole colors of her hair and tart sour attitude to go with the flavors, ingredients and label of the beer. For being a beer that seemingly, everyone, even non craftbeer drinkers, it sure looks a lot like a gate way into the awesome world of the craft beer. Tayuya, while seeming like a regular person is actually cursed to become a demon. So like very appealing as the beer maybe, too many and maybe your inner demons would come out too!

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.1675667.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.1451228.jpg
http://101.dtiblog.com/p/prprhentai/file/tyt43.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.995545.jpg

2016 PB & Thursday by The Bruery

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Emeralda, Emeralda Kasim, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, Mocha Wednesday, PB & Thursday, Peanut Flour, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenogears, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7* Final Review of 2016

2016 PB & Thursday by The Bruery is a 19.8% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Peanut Flour.

Label:
SAMMICH

We claim the days of the week Sparingly With this release , we spread it on thick. This is our kind of Thursday.

Check The Forecast, down a cup of coffee, grab your backpack and pack something special to enjoy later on. Might we suggest this bottle? It is Thursday, after all. PB & Thursday – a peanuty variant of Black Tuesday. It won’t stick to the roof of your mouth, but it will impart layers of peanut butter character and bourbon-laced fudge notes to our storied imperial stout.
==Introduction==

Released to the Hoarders Society only, I had to reach out to my sources and definitely pull some beer leverage for this one. There was no way I could not pass up on this one and well, things paid off and now I have the next edition to the Weekday Series from The Bruery here to the site. For this being the last beer of 2016, it is only fitting. I did Grey Monday as the last beer of 2012 when I first started posting to my website. 4 years later and a new Weekday addition has come. This time, the Bruery has decided to add a Peanut butter beer as their Weekday. Peanut butter has really been exploding in the craft beer industry and I can’t blame them. Ever since Karl Strauss Peanut Butter Cup and Terrapin Liquid Bliss, it has been a damn staple in some of the best beers. Heck, even my first Experimental Bourbon Barrel aged Imperial Stout was made with peanut butter. Granted, some breweries add peanut butter flavoring and other manage to add real peanut butter or powdered peanut butter, the Bruery went with Peanut flour. I actually added something similar called PB2 to my brew, a ton of it! Also, the Bruery has made a peanut butter beer before called Elvis Tuesday which was Peanut Butter and Bananas. They also made one called PB & J which was peanut butter powder and boysenberry puree. I think with this however, the emphasis on more of a peanut and chunky peanut butter beer, they decided to go with peanut flour. This is definitely quite the honor and specially a great way to end this year. For many it has been decent but over all its been up and down. Let’s have a beer and celebrate for a better tomorrow! Cheers for another year of Anime and Beer reviews!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Peanut brittle, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, oak, vanilla, marshmallow, bourbon, Reese’s pieces peanut butter cups, Nutter Butter Cookies, Capn’ Crunch Peanut Butter Crunch cereal, roasted peanuts, Cocoa Krispies, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, pomegranates, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk hints, Rocky Road Ice cream, chocolate mousse, peanut butter and chocolate chip ice cream, Bananas, and clove spice.

Flavors:
Rich Reese’s pieces peanut butter cups, Nutter Butter Cookies, peanut brittle, roasted peanuts, peanut butter fudge, Capn’ Crunch Peanut butter crunch, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, peanut butter and chocolate smores, Cocoa Krispies, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolates, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, pomegranates, flan, dulce de leche caramel, cotton candy, Irish Cream, Danish Cream, molasses, anise, maple syrup, rocky road ice cream, graham crackers, peanut butter cereal, port wine, crème brulee, tobacco, leather, mocha, Bananas, clove spice, oreo cookies, coffee cake, hazelnut nectar, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone, peanut butter chocolate ice cream, peanut butter cookie dough, butterscotch, almond joy coconut,peanut butter chocolate mousse, 3 leches/ 3 Milks cake, sweetened condensed milk and pecan pie.

Aftertaste:
Finishing Rich in dark fruit, peanut butter, dark chocolate, marshmallows, oak, bourbon, vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter fudge and Reese’s peanut butter chocolate and rocky road ice cream. Slight booziness but mainly sweetness in the aftertaste and not even detracting from the flavors. Crimson Dark full body, velvety, smooth, creamy, syrupy and chewey mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability. Although there was times I wanted to just drink it all in one sitting.

Overall:
An Exceptional, Grandiose and supremely delicious addition the series of great beers. A bucket lister simply because I am a nut for peanut butter. This beer, just like Grey Monday did for Hazelut, Chocolate Rain for Chocolate, Wineification for Wine, Mocha Wednesday for Coffee, White Chocolate for Vanilla and Chocolate, this brand new day takes everything I loved about peanut butter and brings it full force. This is not peanut butter flavoring in any way. This is as close to real peanuts, roasted peanuts and real peanut butter as it gets. It definitely is closer to my peanut butter home brew but also the Sweep The Leg Peanut Butter Stout I got from my friend Aaron Mendiola in Texas. However, it is like take that peanut butter and the Gods of the universe named Black Tuesday rose you up to the heavens and said from this day forth, you are now, PB & Thursday. I’m sure it was damn magical when they finally decided to promote the Black Tuesday to become a new day of the week. They chose damn right. This special beer is definitely righteous to hold its place as such. I am hoping we see a release of this next year for us Reserve members as well as Preservation members, this one is definitely one for the book and one I recommend you try it especially if you are Black Tuesday.

End of The Year Statement:
I want to thank each and every one of you who have made this year special. Not just for keeping up with these wacky reviews, sometimes mistyped words and overall defender of many beers where people rate beers too harshly. I thank you for getting this far if you are new to the site or even been a fan for years. To all my readers, lovers, haters, Facebook, Untappd, SomethingAwful.com linkers and Twitter followers, regardless, thank you so much. I really appreciate the love and support from everyone and all the breweries that have contributed to my site growth, to my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com, to my fellow homebrew brothers, to the BeerBumz and to you, the reader, lover of beer and anime, KANPAI!

Anime Corner:
Emeralda Kasim from Xenogears was chosen in this review as I wanted to a make favorite character part of the awesome Bruery series. You see, KOS-MOS is the original Black Tuesday for Xenosaga/Xenogears. Rukia Kutchiki who I chose for Grey Monday was from Bleach, same as Yoruichi Shihouin who I chose for Chocolate Rain. Temari is my favorite top from Naruto and I chose White Chocolate. So for Mocha Wednesday, my next favorite who fit perfectly with the colors was Konan from Naruto as well. So that being said, I had not chosen another favorite character from the Xeno series aside from my top which was KOS-MOS. So that is when I decided to go with Emeralda. She is a hidden character and one of the most powerful in the game. Some might argue, she is the KOS-MOS of that series subsection as she is an experiment. KOS-MOS is an advanced cybernetic android, Emeralda is a shape shifting biological weapon that grows up later in the series. So, it was definitely a fit for this beer. You can easily tell I was going for colors of the label as well as colors of the flavors with crimson and and peanut butter colors representing Emeralda. The green of her hair is like that of the origin of peanuts, green. Essentially, this beer is like remembering one’s roots. Like Peanuts remember their green origin, one remembers the Black Tuesday origin and this special beer here will forever be that… very special, like Emeralda!

Sources:
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-xenogears-emeralda-kasim-583773.jpeg
http://static.zerochan.net/Emeralda.Kasim.full.872819.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Emeralda.Kasim.full.334009.jpg
http://charaud.com/wp-content/uploads/xenogears/emeralda_kasim01_03.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/c/1200×1200/img-master/img/2016/06/12/17/47/01/57362703_p0_master1200.jpg
http://orig15.deviantart.net/80c6/f/2015/201/6/3/emeralda_by_pechan-d91veif.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/X6dbA2V.jpg

2009 Fort (aged 7 years) by Dogfish Head

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2009 Fort, American Strong Ale, Dogfish Head, Fort, Fruit Beer, Naruto, Raspberries, Raspberry, Raspberry preserves, sakura Haruno | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2009 Fort (aged 7 years) by Dogfish Head is an 18% ABV American Strong Fruit Ale brewed with Raspberry Puree.

Label:
Flavored ale fermented with over a ton of fresh, pureed raspberries. This flavored ale was made to age with the best of ’em.

==Introduction==

I purchased 2 of these beauty back in 2011. I had set one aside and drank that one back then. In accordance with the recommended aging for this one or 7 years, I had finally decided to drink it but drink it as close to the end of the year as possible. We are approaching 2017 and I had set the bottle date for 2016. It is now time to unleash what nature has done best for this amazing epitome of raspberries. Since 2009, I do not think they have released a 750ml 18% brew. Heck even the 120 minute IPAs and World Stouts were all in 12 ounce bottle. Of all the beers that Dogfish has ever made, this was one that was very damn close to my heart. So damn close that even to this day, I could not believe that they would release an 18% ABV of this size. No brewery at the time and aside from the Bruery, would ever release such a size for huge high gravity beer. Today I pay tribute to all the raspberry beers I have ever tried starting from this one, The Lost Coast Raspberry brown, The Dragon’s Milk Raspberry from New Holland, The Imperial Biscotti Break Umami from Evil Twin, Hoarders Cuvee from the Bruery and even my very own Raging Passio Lactus Raspear Dragons brew which was one of my top tier homebrew due to my love of this fruit. To many more Raspberry brews I have tried over the years and loved and even raspberry ciders. This goes to all, cheers and a happy 2017!

Aromas:
Supreme Raspberries, dark fruit raisins, caramel, honey, White Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, Raspberry Cadbury Chocolate and Caramel cream eggs, bananas, clove spice, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, honey, Chambord Raspberry liqueur, Red Velvet cake, Mexican Jericalla Custard, rum soaked raspberries, dark candi sugar, rock candy, Raspberry chocolate cordials, Raspberry Cheesecake, Sakura cake, sweetened condensed milk, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pomegranates, fruit cake, cane sugar and raspberry yogurt.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberries bliss, dulce de leche caramel, rich honey, dark fruit currants, blackberries, blueberries, slight cranberries, pomegranates, tropical passion fruit, dragon fruit, kiwi, strawberries, guava nectar, lychee fruit, tangerine hints, stone fruit, peaches, apricots, apples, Mexican Jericalla Custard, Raspberry Cadbury Chocolate and Caramel cream eggs, bananas, clove spice, Raspberry yogurt, raspberry preserves on rye bread, leather hints, Chambord Raspberry liqueur on Red Velvet cake, Raspberry cheesecake, Raspberries and Danish cream, berries and cream, rum soaked raspberries, dark candi sugar, rock candy, bubblegum, raspberry cream pie, wine grapes, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry membrillo, flan, milk chocolate, Raspberry chocolate cordials, coffee cake, raspberry mocha ice cream, White Chocolate Raspberry and Raspberry sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with everlasting Raspberry creamy bliss, honey, Chambord Raspberry liqueur, raspberry cobbler, leather note, rye bread, dark fruits, stone fruits, vanilla, caramel, biscuit bread, and hazelnut nectar. No alcohol in the taste. Years has mellowed the alcohol strength. Crimson Honey full body, silky creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and easy drinkability which is extremely dangerous. The process of aging has made this one so damn easy to drink, I could finish the whole bottle in one sitting. That will not be done thought. Maybe….

Overall:
Heaven knows what cellar aging has done for this beer. This beer was in no shape or form offensive. It doesn’t even feel like an 18% ABV beer anymore. It drinks like pure heaven. Hell, I’ll be damned if I drink the whole thing. Who knows, it has probably gone up to 20% ABV over the years. All I know, is that if there ever was a true treasure in the books of taste and experience for the very concept of raspberries, this here is that very treasure. It is killer, like the forbidden fruit or Pandora’s box unleashed, this hits with a ton a bricks. Seductive and Sensual but if you finish the whole bottle in one sitting, as they say in Death Battle… K.O.!!!!!!!!!!!! This beer is definitely one of my top ten beers regardless and I would suggest when you buy the 12 ounce (and the 750ml if they ever sell those again) do yourself a favor and age it for the 7 years.

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I used her for the original Fort and the 2015 Fort. Her hair and over all colors match that of the colors, flavors and the label itself with the green colors representing the eyes of the girl in the label. Sakura is not weak by any means. She has ridiculous super human strength and her punches represent that pure raspberry punch I was mentioning earlier. The alcohol is her strength and the sweetness is her desires. Since this is the 7 year, which according to Dogfish Head is the peak of aging for this one, a laid back and Sexy Sakura was in damn order. She finally woke up after her 7-year slumber as is ready to kick some ass again, just gently first.

Sources:
https://skategb.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/595882.jpg
http://www.chuing.net/zboard/revol_getimg.php?id=mfa&no=48179&num=0&fc=d920683bfdb39f570ee673b6580a4334
http://i43.tinypic.com/25d2r.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/80/c3/59/80c3596181ba95dd57c5cfee856de93f.jpg
http://aws-cf.ados.fr/prod/photos/6/6/1/7855661/2691782/big-26917823d5.jpg?v=5

2016 Vindictive collaboration by Sans Liege Wines and The Bruery

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged black berries, Black Tuesday, bourbon barrels, chocolate mousse, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, Fess Parker, Fess Parker winery, french oak barrels, Grenache Grapes, Grey Monday, Harvest Syrah, Imperial Stout, Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, Kill-LA-Kill, Mardi Rouge, Mocha Wednesday, Mourvèdre grapes, New American Oak Barrel, Oak Puncheons, Petite Syrah, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Sans Liege Wines, syrah grapes, The Bruery, Vindictive, White Chocolate, Wineification, Wineification III | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Vindictive collaboration by Sans Liege Wines and The Bruery is a 14.9% ABV Black Tuesday (Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels) with Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes aged in New American Oak Puncheons

Label:
A NEW ERA

If some of the best wines are blends of several grape varieties, imagine what could be achieved when applied to beer. This Black Tuesday varietal is a blended and fermented with must from 75% destemmed and 25% whole cluster Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes from Sans Liege. After nearly a year in oak, this release vanquishes the boundaries between wine and beer.

==Introduction==

Released to Hoarders and Reserve society as a single bottle, this version of their Wineification/Mardi Rouge, in the Bruery’s attempt to wineify beer, is the latest in the series. After trying Wineification I, II and III, this was essentially IV. However, it looks like they amped up their wine game by using different species of grapes and instead of French Oak Barrels they are using New American Oak Puncheons. This is definitely going to be something else I am sure. The previous iteration have tought me that it is possible to blend and create a wine/beer hybrid and based on what I had heard about this one it looks like they might have actually successfully made it. Heck, even their mini commercial for it shows all the other beers praise this one as the new god among beers. Let us see if the hype is real and see just how much closer they truly are to the wine beer hybrid. Cheers!

Vindictive Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIyIR324QNM

Aromas:
Rich oak, Dark fruit figs, raisins, plums, prunes, currants, blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, wine grapes, Concorde grapes, white grapes, port wine, chocolate, vanilla, sangria, green apples, stone fruit apricots, dulce de leche caramel hints, brown sugar and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Very rich oak, wine grapes, red grapes, Concorde grapes, peppercorns, flowers, hibiscus, dark fruit figs, raisins, plums, prunes, currants, blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, strawberries, port wine, red wine, sangria, bourbon, vanilla, rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, chocolate mousse, mocha, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, Chambord Raspberry, white grapes, sauvignon blanc, stone fruit peach, green apples, gamey meat notes, blood hints, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, sweetened condensed milk, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar, fruit cake, graham crackers, bananas, cherry cola, almonds, rye bread and leathery notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing super dry, rich oak for days, dark fruit, gamey meat hints, stone fruit and fruit cake. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Dark Crimson and Deep Blood Red clear body under certain lighting. Smooth, rich, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The only reason this beer is not a bucket lister but is still up there with the best ones like Black Tuesday, Winefication I,II and III, White Chocolate, Chocolate Rain and the other Melangè brews and days of the week series is because it is still exceptionally supreme. The gripe is mainly that it really is super super dry. The other Winefications were not as dry and the flavors linger. I also totally understand that in order to finally meld the borders between beer and wine (which this achieves it phenomenally) is that you have to make a beverage that pleases both sides. This is the key! Now I understand why people love their wine and can differentiate themselves from beer drinking. I appreciate the love there is for wine because there are many I love especially meads and heavy ciders. For me though, super dry is something I am not used to. I can actually start to appreciate why sommeliers and wine connoisseurs have the jobs they do. Its hard to review wine the drier it becomes. Granted I can still review this one well, but with lots of dryness involved to not be able to discern flavors as fast as you can with beer, it truly is a challenge. That’s why I highly recommend this one to beer and wine lovers alike. This one is even more unique than the one’s in the past. It kicks ass!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill makes a return once again to pair with many of the different aspects of the beer. This time, in the fourth installment, I am using her third and most powerful form, the Golden Hair/Super Saiyan-esque Senketsu Kisaragi form just like I did with Wineification III. While the alcohol is lower, the brew is definitely hit the marks on wine. Ryuko is one of my favorite characters in Anime right next to my other top 3 (Kos-mos, Yoruichi and Temari). The reason I did not use her second “Junketsu” form was due to the fact that I never got around to putting the beer to the site, although I did have Winefication II at the Bruery’s Black Tuesday party. Like the original installment of Winefication, the colors pair perfect with Ryuko’s hair, the background, her eyes and her outfit as well. If this was a candidate for Mardi Rouge (Red Tuesday) then even more the reason to use her for this pairing. This time around, I found an awesome picture of Ryuko with a cloak. A cloak to represent the extra oak and grapes to get the beer to that wine level even more. The complexity of the flavors showcases her unpredictable characteristics. She always has a plan up her sleeve. She is deadly and sexy which best describes how smooth the beer goes down. The beer is dark but it is a blood red dark as you get closer to finishing the glass. Her suit Senketsu (Fresh Blood) describes this as she needs to let senketsu take some of her blood in order to unleash a higher power. Perfect for that red wine aspect and the color as I mentioned earlier. Heck, even the gamey meat like flavor is proof of blood in this beer. Ryuko is strong and tough minded, but she does have her sweet,warm hearted and loving side which she shows to the people she cares about. The sweet chocolate and berries is what best places this category. Her Kisaragi form is what is new from Wineification III and being that it is her ultimate form, there was no doubt why I wouldn’t use that form once again here. Take it easy with her though, you won’t find one like her again, maybe. Especially since people only got 1 bottle. Either way, it will be a very memorable experience.

Sources:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P8xlGMmI-Q8/VhgpvCfIIMI/AAAAAAAEYfo/sMWS8Rq02ow/w1156-h1700/heels%2Bkill_la_kill%2Bmatoi_ryuuko%2Bsakimichan.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Rvm3bFP.jpg
http://img15.deviantart.net/47fd/i/2016/224/c/7/ryuko_matoi___final_form__by_phasechan-dadmlef.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/eRF7kiu.jpg
https://www.filepicker.io/api/file/jCgJq2a5SK65v4QQGPda

Gordon’s Finest Gold by John Martin SA in Belgium

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Blonde, Belgium, Euro Strong Lager, Gordon's Finest Gold, Imperial Pilsner, John Martin, Mercy, Overwatch | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Gordon’s Finest Gold by John Martin SA in Belgium is a 10% ABV Euro Strong Lager/Imperial Pils

Label:
Strong blond and mellow beer. Best served chilled.

==Introduction==

I was given this special gift by my friend Brian and his wife who were able to get this beer for me from Belgium about a year ago. I have tried many Belgian beers over the years and would someday love to go. This one, however, I have never heard of. Also, a 10% ABV at that and a lager. So I decided to save it for a special occasion. It is almost reached is best before date of 1/3/2017 so I decided I would give this a shot for one of my final new year beers. Here’s to you Brian, I appreciate the humble gift and thanks for supporting my work, cheers!

Aromas:
Malty sweet, cane sugar, biscuit bread, honey, waffle cone, blonde candi sugar, marshmallows, stone fruits and citrus notes.

Flavors:
Rich malty notes, biscuit bread, pilsner grain, cane sugar, rich honey, banana hints, phenolic hints, piloncillo sugar cone, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, waffle cone, citrus, tangerine gummies, brown sugar, agave hints, Cadbury caramel cream eggs, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee hints, flan and marshmallows.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with bitter flavors and slightly malty sugar notes, pilsner grain and earthy hop notes. Slight alcohol in the taste. Clear Golden light body, crisp, smooth, clean, velvety and refreshing mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious beer. Reminding me of the Leffe Blond, if it was imperialized. This is definitely a strong version of a lager and is essentially, in my opinion, what some lagers should be. At least in terms of being more complex. It does remind me a lot of the awesome sweet strong beers like Belzebuth and Samichlaus. I really loved this one except for the finish which is dry and bitter. Not bad it is just that for a 10% ABV beer I would want this to linger. I wish they would sell this here in the states at higher volumes. I would drink this over basic lagers. Definitely worth searching for.

Anime Corner:
Mercy from Overwatch was chosen in this beer pairing as I wanted to convey the fact that even though this is a lager, it is also a blond. The golden color, the name of the beer and even angelic as it is from Belgium. These are items that I figured would fit great with this beer. Angels are strong creatures as well so that definitely represents the ABV of the beer as well.

Sources:
https://ws2.sinaimg.cn/large/00641CkYjw1f5fhxp2h3gj31z41407wj.jpg
https://images2.alphacoders.com/666/thumb-1920-666091.png

Imperial Mexican Biscotti Cake Break collaboration by Evil Twin Brewing and WestBrook brewing

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Cinnamon, cocoa nibs, coffee, Collaboration Beer, Evil Twin Brewing, Habanero Peppers, Hatsune Miku, Imperial Mexican Biscotti Cake Break, Miku, Moembelu, Street Fighter, vanilla, vocaloid, Westbrook Brewing, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Imperial Mexican Biscotti Cake Break collaboration by Evil Twin Brewing and WestBrook brewing is a 10.5% ABV Imperial Stout with Coffee, Cinnamon, Almonds, Cocoa Nibs, Vanilla and Habanero peppers added.

Label:
None

==Introduction==

Now this is something I never knew would ever happen. You take 2 of some of the best beers out there and make a blend recipe. Now, I have seen the Cuvee that has done something similar to this like when Boulevard and Firestone did their Collaboration beer which used Velvet Merkin, Stickee Monkee, Imperial Stout Tart Cherry X and Bourbon Barrel Quad to create a very special Cuvee. This is a similar idea although while many of those beers are awesome, Mexican Cake has been one of those aftermarket second hand beers that sells for a damn markup and is hard to get. Essentially, taking an awesome coveted brew like that one and using one of Evil Twin’s finest, the Imperial Biscotti Break and making something special that many people can actually get. Although I would not be surprised if this one goes the way of the “hard to find” brews as it is Mexican Cake after all. I had tried their Tequila Barrel Aged Mexican Cake in the past which was awesome in it’s own rights. Now as we get a chance to see what this one is all about, I cannot wait and am excited for the anticipation. Vamonos! A provar esta Cerveza, Let’s go try this beer! Cheers!

Aromas:
Mexican Chocolate, Chocolate Abuelita, Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, mild habanero peppers, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, chocolate smores, cinnamon, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, bananas, Danish cream almond joy, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, champurrado, tobacco and molasses.

Flavors:
Champurrado, Maize Atole, Mole spices, Habanero, Mexican Chocolate, Chocolate Abuelita, Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, coffee cake, roasted coffee, Kahlua liqueur, bananas, molasses, fruit cake, marzipan, mazapan, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, almond joy, macadamia nuts, oreo cookies, Danish cream, Irish cream coffee, mocha, jamocha, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, chocolate smores, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, sweetened condensed milk, flan, cinnamon, piloncillo sugar cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding, toffee, dulce de leche caramel and oak notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich in toffee, caramel, dark chocolate, dark fruits, dark cherries, earthy notes, molasses, bananas, spicy pepper notes, champurrado, almond joy and marzipan. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, smooth, creamy, chewy, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Unbelievable! The blending of the Imperial Biscotti with Mexican cake is definitely something completely different. I have had the Mexican Cake in Tequila form which was amazing as well as the Imperial Biscotti break in many variants. The fact that this one is a special blend is seriously amazing especially for the fact that both beers are in a league of their own. It’s like if The Bruery and Three Floyds blended Dark Lord and Black Tuesday. Anyways, the beer itself is a complex drink of both worlds blending some spicy heat from the habanero peppers and Mexican chocolate with the Marzipan like flavors of the Biscotti imparted by the coffee, vanilla and almonds. The outcome is something that works in a directions that is unfathomable. For the original Mexican Cake being so pricey, now you can enjoy something that is bigger than than into a Super Saiyan Fusion of beer. A huge recommendation for a bucket lister like this one.

Anime Corner:
Noembelu from Street Fighter, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach and Vocaloid Hatsune Miku were used in this pairing as I wanted to mainly do the Mexican characteristics of the beer. Noembelu is essentially from the indigenous tribe where T. Hawk is from in Mexico so she was a perfect pairing for this beer. Yoruichi I have used in a previous Mexican brew and Miku I used in in the Tequila barrel Mexican Cake. Funny thing about Miku is that she has sung concerts in Mexico in Spanish sporting Mexican attire. So definitely had to bring her for this pairing as well.

Sources:
https://k61.kn3.net/taringa/2/7/6/5/2/6/94/panthyhero-/83B.jpg
http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b580/qinchao1204/chuyin%2012/wwwafterschoolsyscom-938.jpg~original

6th Anniversary Hazelnut Chocolate Imperial Stout by WestBrook brewing

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 6th Anniversary, cocoa nibs, Hazelnut Chocolate Imperial Stout, Hazelnuts, Imperial Stout, The Testament of Sister New Devil, vanilla beans, Westbrook Brewing, Zest | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

6th Anniversary Hazelnut Chocolate Imperial Stout by WestBrook brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout with cocoa nibs, hazelnuts and vanilla beans added

Label:
Our 6th Anniversary beer is rich and chocolatey imperial stout matured on cocoa nibs, roasted hazelnuts and vanilla beans.

==Introduction==

This is the second time I try a Westbrook beer and for it being their 6th anniversary at that, it was definitely a damn fine pleasure to bring this one to the site. I was able to find this one when I was looking for the Mexican Biscotti Cake. I love hazelnuts and I definitely had to bring this one to the site. The last time I tried a hazelnut beer aside from Rogue’s Hazelnut Nectar was the Bruery’s Melange 12 which had the same ingredients like chocolate, vanilla and hazelnut like this one. This was a great opportunity to bring another awesome beer to the site especially for the end of 2016, their 6th Anniversary, and a chance to try more Westbrook. I hear great things from them. Let’s have a look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, mocha, marshmallows, hazelnut nectar, Baker’s milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, tobacco, molasses, brown sugar, dark fruits, cookie dough, mint, bananas, vanilla, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, flan and Irish cream.

Flavors:
Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate brownies, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, raspberries, plums, mint, anise, molasses, almond joy chocolate, flan, Irish cream, Danish cream, coffee cake, brown sugar, tobacco, Triple chocolate cake, marshmallow smores, mocha, fruit cake, mild plum sauce, rye bread with raspberry preserves, pillow mints, macadamia nuts, maple syrup hints, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate mousse, cookie dough ice cream, chocolate cherry cordials and piloncillo sugar cone.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a mint chocolate flavors, dark chocoalte, hazelnut, earthy hop notes, dark fruits, banana notes, clove spice and tobacco. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional brew that was very delicious and chocolatey. There was a lot of complexity going on but I think the flavors that stood out the most was the some what mint flavors. The beer itself is still worthy of praise as I still got many of the flavors from the ingredients used and the vast complexity. The only thing was that the beer definitely seemed to have a roast mint chocolate flavor through and through. For the beer overall I highly recommend you try and get this one, it is damn amazing!

Anime Corner:
Zest from The Testament of Sister New Devil was chosen in this pairing as I mainly wanted to go with the colors of the label but also the ingredients of the beer which actually fit well with Zest as she has the colors of the label and the colors of the ingredients such as the browns for chocolate and hazelnut and the light colors for vanilla. Overall, she is technically a devil which works for the dark aspects of this beer.

Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CzGQPUCVIAENa40.jpg
http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/shinmai-maou-no-keiyakusha/images/0/00/Volume_V.png/revision/latest?cb=20140820104756
https://k60.kn3.net/BDC4DF9BD.jpg
http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/anime-characters-fight/images/4/46/Zest.png/revision/latest?cb=20150512165550&path-prefix=ru
https://k30.kn3.net/taringa/1/6/3/6/9/3/90/juampinie/0EB.jpg
http://2static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Random_b89889_6045838.jpg

2016 Big Hugs by Half Acre brewing

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ark Angel Mithra, Ark Angel MR, Big Hugs, Chocolate, chocolate hazelnut, christmas beer, coffee, coffee company, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, dark chocolate, dark fruits, Dark Matter Coffee, fancy coffee, Final Fantasy XI, half acre, half acre brewing, Imperial Stout, Kisha, mecha hugs, Mithra, Spices, spicy aroma | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

2016 Big Hugs by Half Acre brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Dark Matter Coffee

Description:
This beer is a thug. Big and chock full of tender embrace.

A specialty brew. Grab it when you see it. 10% ABV.

…Big Hugs has grappled with natural order and twisted the pillars of existence. While you hang in the balance, steal time to sit steady and spill this black rumble into your center. Big Hugs Imperial Stout is liquid char scraped from the bowels of eternity, soaked with the free spirit of an adolescent feline. Heed him and rejoice.

The time has come to release our annual homage to the accidentally violent, disastrous fly swatter we call Big Hugs. In its 8th year, Hugs has managed to break through the worm hole and find itself up against the real monsters – human kind.

==Introduction==
As a huge fan of this crazy Kaiju Cat, I feel it is my duty every year to bring forth news of the return of a monster. A giant cat that can only suit its feels with hugging and massively destroying to the human race. Of course, he is loved by many. Who wouldn’t? Which makes me wonder how he would fare against Godzilla. To be honest, they would just be the best of friends. Who knows, maybe Big Hugs is Godzilla’s cat and no one knew it. Regardless, this one is one that you have to embrace. Take it on like a quest of dragons…err… cats. Like previous years, I hope to bring the beer to the site. Even if it is just the basic one. I think they do something different every year. Also, since I bought this years Dark Matter Coffee with Pink Himalayan Salt, I wonder if it will actually have that. Although, there is a version like that already. Anyways, let’s take on this Catastrophe!, Cheers!

Aromas:
Chocolate milk shake, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, fudge chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha, fancy coffee, espresso, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, dark cherries, blueberries, coconut hints, tobacco, molasses, anise, leather, toffee, pecan pie, mild peanut butter and banana hints.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, German Chocolate, salted dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toasted coconut hints, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, dark cherries, blueberries, roasted coffee, mocha, fancy coffee, espresso, vinous grape notes, Kahlua Liqueur, brownies, pecan pie, bananas, malted chocolate, chocolate mousse, oatmeal cookies, smokey notes, anise, port wine, earthy notes, cookie dough ice cream, pecan pie, toffee, rock candy, salted chocolate, tobacco, leather, brown sugar, fudge chocolate, hazelnut nectar and pralines.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with caramel, sea salt, vanilla, dark chocolate, peanut butter, Fancy Coffee roast, spicy coffee complexity earthy notes and dark fruits. No alcohol in the taste, Dark like the abyss of nothingness dark body, Smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and almost easy to drink despite the ABV.

Overall:
I find it very interesting that this version of Big Hugs, while very exceptional and delicious as always, it had some salty notes like that of the Salted Chocolate version of the beer. It is interesting because the actual coffee does have Pink Himalayan salt, yes, the little baggie in the pictures. Makes wonder if they did use the same coffee as they did in the past years or if this is a new blend. Needless to say, still one of my favorite beers and the salty notes surely does add some complexity to the beer. Now while I did love this one, I am sure the variants are even better ofcourse. This one should still be seeked though as it is the original. Here watch this Cat Video from them to find out why you need this beer in your life. LOL Cheers!

Big Hugs from Meredith Anderson on Vimeo.

Anime Corner:
Ark Angel MR or evil Mythra from Final Fantasy XI was used in this pairing as I used her in the last pairing. The original idea had to do with the whole Big Hugs. Since she is a gray cat lady with crimson eyes, it would have fit with the Mecha Hugs Label from back in the day. The fact that she is an Ark Angel, she fits even more perfect with the evil Big Hugs and the whole Big Hugs as she squeezes the orange Mythra representing the colors of the original Big Hugs cat.

I also included original character Kisha the furry cat (character created by Kisharra of DeviantArt.com) as her color represent Christmas. This beer is released for Christmas so I figure this would work out since I found a picture of her hugging another furry cat on Christmas. Also, with that sensual stare, who wouldn’t want to hug up against a warm cat. Ofcourse, just like Big Hugs, big cats in real life are dangerous, just like the ABV on this one.

Sources:
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/564b9-chp6jf56bks039cj.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OqDjeY-4Tco/VkYAtgys6-I/AAAAAAAAdq4/8PD6QB9JRlM/w1602-h895/furry-%2525D1%252584%2525D1%25258D%2525D0%2525BD%2525D0%2525B4%2525D0%2525BE%2525D0%2525BC%2525D1%25258B-furry-art-furry-feline-1828652.png
http://tbib.org/images/3267/1b28a1e0f2f2b5d828c92ed0744d0309599c850f.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_E5x9oEAUbI/WAyX6gKIN6I/AAAAAAAACyQ/KpGw1qUkCCg3qGdScYywQgg-VgZ2YTSWACJoC/w1044-h1980/AYvf2nGehqw.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/2qwyCtD.jpg

Bourbon Barrel Aged Drago by Onion Pub & Brewery / Wild Onion Brewing Co.

December 29, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Drago, Drago, Onion Pub & Brewery, RIS, Russian Imperial Stout, Tailenders, Tomoe Mikagura, Wild Onion Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Bourbon Barrel Aged Drago by Onion Pub & Brewery / Wild Onion Brewing Co. is a 10% ABV Russian Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Dark than a cold Siberian winter night and a bigger than Ivan Drago’s uppercut, this formidable beer took a long time to reach your discerning palate. Brewed with vast amounts of roasted barley and aged in oak bourbon barrels for 8 months. This Russian Imperial stout is a contender!

==Introduction==

I had obtained this one as an extra when I obtained 2016 Big Hugs. This is the first time I try a beer from Wild Onion brewing. I have seen this one in many different online places but I had never bothered to get it. There is always a first and for being the first time I bring one of their beers to the site, especially one like this, I am thankful I got it. Now, let us have a look at the breakdown on this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, oak bourbon, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, roasted malt, coffee roast, dark fruit currants, raisins, blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries, almond joy, anise, tobacco, coffee cake, crème brulee, bananas, flan, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers chocolate, fudge chocolate, brown sugar and Irish cream.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Fudge Chocolate, Dark fruit raisins, currants, raspberries, dark cherries, blackberries, crème brulee, vanilla, oak bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, chocolate mousse, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, Khalua Coffee liqueur, bananas, clove spice hints, molasses, tobacco, almond joy chocolate, leather notes, anise, brownie batter, chocolate cherry cake, mocha chocolate, Irish cream, sweetened condensed milk, coffee cake and Cadbury chocolate caramel cream eggs.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with a lot of lingering flavors of oak, vanilla, caramel, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, dark fruit, crème brulee, flan, tobacco and bourbon notes. No alcohol in the taste despite ABV, Dark supreme full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very exceptional Russian imperial stout with flavors ranging from many of the awesome Bourbon Barrel aged stouts I have had in the past like Bourbon County, Parabola, Dragon’s Milk and many many more. I am not sure how often this comes out or hard it is to get but I definitely would love to get several more of these little bottles. It is pretty damn amazing and definitely worthy of a world class status. Highly recommended if you can find it!

Anime Corner:
Tomoe Mikagura from Tailenders was chosen as I wanted to go with a character that reminded me of the crazy Haruko Haruhara but since this character had similar features, I said fuck it. Besides, She fits the bill in terms of the rose to match the reds of the label, winter gear for that winters of Siberia in reference to the description of this beer and spiky hair to remind me of dragons. Although Drago was based on the name but it sure was damn close.

Sources:
http://www.animeclick.it/images/Anime_big/Tailenders/Tailenders20.jpg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZuIDbLe11yE/maxresdefault.jpg
https://muusi.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/tailenders_3.jpg
http://www.animedimenzija.com/site/images/topic_images/tailenders08.jpg

Second Anniversary Special Edition by Four Sons

December 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2nd anniversary, Belgian Blonde, Four Sons Brewing, Guava, Hibiscus, Imperial Sour Blonde, membrillo, passion fruit, Second Anniversary, Special Edition, Wild ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Second Anniversary Special Edition by Four Sons is a 13.9% ABV Imperial Sour Blonde brewed with Passion Fruit and Hibiscus.

Label:
QTY Bottled: 1,222

What? Second Anniversary? Wow that’s amazing! It shows how fast time can fly when you’re doing something you love with the people that you love! Our family is thankful for all the support we’ve received in our first two years, and we’re proud to share a unique beer to commemorate this occacion. We started out with an invitation to “Join Our Family” and we’re happy that so many of you have! Thanks and cheers from the Dufresne family.

==Introduction==

Holy shit, after reading the ABV and the amount of beers bottled for this I couldn’t believe it. How amazing that my friend Will Carranza was able to get his hands on this special brew. Nevertheless, gift me this special Christmas present. I am still in awe. Even so, 13.9% for a sour? That is like, Bruery status there. Regardless, this is the second time I am able to bring a 4 sons brew to the site. I am still looking to bring “The Coco” one day to the site so I can advise how awesome that beer was. However, this unique beer I really have to thank my homebrew brother Will for. For as many a sessions we had tasting beers, I could not have had the opportunity to share great brew and homebrew knowledge with a great friend. Cheers brother and Cheers to Four Sons! I hope to bring more of your brews to the site in the future.

Aromas:
Rich Guayabate Membrillo/ Guava Quince cheese, Tangerines Gummies, bananas, flowers, hibiscus, peppercorns, tropical fruit passion fruit, dragon fruit, kiwi, mango, strawberries, raspberries, lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit, stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel and wild flower honey.

Flavors:
Hibiscus, lavender, wild flower honey, rich guavas, Guayabate Membrillo/ Guava Quince Cheese/ Guava preserves, lemon, lime, grapefruit, tangerines, oranges, kumquats, lychees, tropical fruit passion fruit, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, pineapple, mango, kiwi, strawberries, pomegranates, raspberries, grapes, dark fruit currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, apples, biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel, peppercorns, Danish cream, herbal tea, tangy dark cherry skins, blueberries and blackberries.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with rich guava, passion fruit, floral hibiscus, dark fruits, stone fruit, gummies and tropical fruit. No alcohol in the taste despite the 14% ABV. Huge points for that. Crimson light haze body, smooth, crisp, effervescent, refreshing and creamy mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Liquid Guava preserves. Ridiculously tangy and sweet awesomeness. Super fruits loaded into this beer and the craziest part was I had to stop myself from drinking this entire beer in one sitting. It drinks way too easy, it’s unique and complex profile makes it closer to the Guava marmalade/preserves which I have not seen how the correlation of hibiscus and passion fruit at this ABV can do. It really is unique and a special brew. I am not sure what the likely hood of getting another one of these as only 1,222 bottles of this stuff was released. I highly damn recommend you can find this one or at least hope they can release it once again. Amazing!!

Anime Corner:
Original character by Bai Yemeng was used in this pairing as I needed a character that would make a great fit to the label, the ingredients of the beer, beer color, flavors and overall celebration of bad assery. This could only was in the form of a hibiscus blood red head with a sword and a yellow passion fruit stare that can kill with a high ABV. Sexy smooth but you will never know what hit!

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/504877-1000×1118-original-bai+yemeng-single-tall+image-looking+at+viewer-red+hair.jpg

Up On The Rooftop by Four Sons Brewing

December 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged All Spice, Allspice, Christmas, christmas beer, Cinnamon, Four Sons Brewing, German Doppelbock, Holiday Ale, holiday beers, holiday doppelbock, Neopolitan, nutmeg, Rwby, Up On The Rooftop | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Up On The Rooftop by Four Sons Brewing is a 10.1% German Doppelbock brewed with Cinnamon, Nutmeg and Allspice.

Label:
Dark, Rich and Malty German Lager brewed with Cinnamon, Nutmeg and Allspice.

Four Sons Brewing is Family Owned & Operated in Huntington Beach, CA. We invite you “Join Our Family” And Share Our Passion for excellent craft beer.

==Introduction==

A special thanks to my friend and fellow Homebrew brother, William Carranza for giving me a special present for Christmas, a Holiday DoppelBock. Now the style already being a rich a malty brew would make sense to fit with Christmas and the additional holiday ingredients of the winter season. I cannot recall if I have ever had a holiday inspired doppelbock other than the time I had the peaches and pecan Shiner Holiday Bock. However, that would be a regular bock. The first brew I had tried from Four Sons was “The Coco” which to me was a coconut Fat Tire. Probably the best Coconut Amber or the only coconut Amber I have ever tried. Amazing. This is the first time I bring a brew from 4 Sons brewing here on the website, thanks to Will, and a good way to finish up the 2016 holiday season. I look forward to trying this one. I have heard great things about them but I have not had a chance to see many of their brews around. With this one, it would be a great way to gauge them for the site and for my audience. So here is to you and your loved ones in these fine holidays, cheers!

Aromas:
Cinnaon, Nutmeg, clove spice, allspice, pumpkin spice, piloncillo sugar cone, figgy pudding, fruit cake, pecan pie, bananas, Danish cream, Ginger bread, dark fruit raisins, plums, apple pie, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel and toffee.

Flavors:
Ginger Bread, Candy Cane, Christmas cookies, All spice, nutmeg, cinnamon, dark fruit raisins, sugar plums, figs, dates, candi sugar, pumpkin spice, piloncillo sugar cone, figgy pudding, fruit cake, pecan pie, apple pie, Danish Cream cookies, earthy hop bittermess, toasted rye bread with tangerine preserves hints, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, bananas, clove spice, anise, dark chocolate and strawberry hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich fruit cake flavors, dark fruit, lingering spices of cinnamon, ginger bread, clove spice, pumpkin and piloncillo sugar cone finish. No alcohol in the taste, honey amber clear body, smooth, rich, creamy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious and perfect holiday ale. A Ginger bread Apple pie and fruit cake in liquid form. Definitely Holiday spice forward and holiday spice driven. While the dark fruit aspects that make great doppelbocks is present, the style does work giving this one a malty dark fruit and spicy fruit cake feel. Very aligned with the holidays and a 10.1% ABV to keep people warm. For being the first beer from them, I can say I am very intrigued to try their next beers. A definite recommendation.

Anime Corner:
Neopolitan from the RWBY series in Christmas attire was used in this pairing as I wanted to represent the holiday aspects of this beer. The Doppelbock aspect is represented in Neo’s Strawberry and Chocolate appearance. Essentially, she is duality. She is nice and sweet on the outside but she is definitely a dangerous trickster and part of the antagonists group in the series. Regardless, it was nice to see her in the Holiday spirit to help with this beer pairing.

Sources:
http://68.media.tumblr.com/6c60ec305285a5819e430624aefa1fc4/tumblr_oi1t1dTjfc1s5wms6o1_1280.jpg

Home Brewing Project #27 Enchanter De L’ambroisie Du Crépuscule by Nubis Sanctum Ales

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged anise, Belgian Dark Candi Sugar, Belgian Dark Strong Ale, bitter orange peel, Dark Candi Sugar, Enchanter De L'ambroisie Du Crépuscule, Golden Syrup, Legend of Zelda, LOZ, Midna, Nubis Sanctum Ales, The Bewitching of Twilight's Ambrosia, Trois Pistoles, Twili Midna, Twilight Princess, Unibroue, Willow | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Home Brewing Project #27 Enchanter De L’ambroisie Du Crépuscule by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 9% ABV Belgian Dark Strong Ale brewed with Golden Syrup, Dark Candi Sugar, Anise and Bitter
Orange Peel.

Label:
Enchanter De L’ambroisie Du Crépuscule
The Bewitching of Twilight’s Ambrosia

Belgian Dark Strong Ale brewed with Golden Syrup, Dark Candi Sugar, Anise and Bitter
Orange Peel.

Magic is the bloodstream of the universe. Forget all you know, or think you know. All that you require is your intuition. ~High Aldwin. Willow The Movie

Across time, people have sought for many gifts such as the Philosopher’s Stone, the Holy Grail, Pandora’s Box, Excalibur or even the Necronomicon. Yet, mankind as curious and as ignorant as they may be, have never laid eyes on such things.

Myth, Legends and Folklore seem to have a way of providing wonder to those who seek the power of knowledge from the unknown. Yet many do not know of the Twilight Princess’ potion. Definitely something that came not from such tales but from other dimensions. For you don’t need to search over the ages and realize you have something special in hand.
Cheers!

Ingredients: Water, Hops, Malt, Dark Candi Sugar, Golden Syrup, Anise, Bitter Orange Peel & Belgian Abbey Yeast.

==Introduction==

Project #27 was inspired by the need to create my second mos favorite beer in the World, the Trois Pistoles. Yes, it is a somewhat common Belgian Style from Canada, but when I first started my craft beer journey, this was one of the brews that had quickly became the best beer I have ever had. Later on, I would try many more Belgians like that of St. Bernardus 12abt and Three Philosopher’s and even Judgment Day from Lost Abbey. Yes, this beer has been an important staple in my journey through craft beer that the day I finally decided was versed in the brewing arts, I could make a delicious clone of the fabled Trois Pistoles. In tribute to the original, I had given it a French name which means, The Bewitching of Twilight’s Ambrosia. The reason for the name I will describe in detail in my anime section but just know, this was for a very magical brew. Now that I have it ready for the site, let me tell you a story about it. Also, to commemorate the occasion, I will also give my thoughts on the side to side comparison of the Trois Pistoles to my version of the brew. Join me in the art of darkness, cheers to all!

Aromas:
Anise, dark candi sugar, rye bread, mild port wine, mild cola hints, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, peppercorn hints, Belgian chocolate, vanilla, piloncillo sugar cone, clove spice and banana hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, anise, rich dark candi sugar, sugar cane, piloncillo sugar cone, rock candy, bananas, clove spice, molasses, orange notes, coriander hints, port wine hints, raspberry, cola, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, grapes, brown sugar, pecan pie, Belgian chocolate, mild coffee hints, coffee cake, raisin bread pudding, stone fruit peaches, ripe apricots, peppercorn spice, maple hints, apples, butterscotch, tangerine preserves, rye bread, sweetened condensed milk, honey and waffle cone.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich dark fruits, dulce de leche caramel, stone fruit, vanilla, earthy notes, anise, mild citrus, chocolate and port wine hints. No alcohol in the taste. Dark Amber brown full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Enchanter De L’ambroisie Du Crépuscule (Left) Vs. the Original Trois Pistoles (Right):
The aromas between them is definitely different. It has more of the cola and port wine forward along with what I believe is their specialty house yeast. Mines breaths more of the anise, citrus and dark candy sugar and mild port wine. The flavors are nearly identical except for the Trois Pistoles which leans more toward that port wine, chocolate, and cola flavor and mines leans more toward citrus, anise, dark candy sugar, mild cola, chocolate and dulce de leche caramel. The colors are nearly identical even under the light but Trois Pistoles is slightly darker. Carbonation is more on mine but head retention is greater on the Trois Pistoles. The aftertaste is more of that specialty chocolate, cola and port wine house yeast flavor but both end on strong Dark candi sugar.

Overall:
While I do believe my beer is on its own a perfect example of a Belgian Dark, I still agree Trois Pistoles is much better. It is definitely their in house yeast and specialty spices as well as the “on lees” process which definitely gives them only a slight edge over mine. I really, really loved how close this was to Trois Pistoles. It was definitely a better brew just on its own that when I took it out of the fermentor to bottle, it was practically ready to drink. Everything about this beer from the specialty yeast and rich dark fruit flavors matched to that of Trois Pistoles. Specialty house yeast they use of course is hard to find but it is definitely that which I consider that beer to be one of my top in the world right next to St. Bernardus 12 ABT. Am really happy with how this turned out that it is definitely up there with my best brews I have ever made, right next to my Belgian Quad, Sangri Leche, Diablita Del Leche, Raging Passion Lactus Raspear Dragons and others. A recipe worth brewing several times over. Now if I can only get a hold of their house yeast.

Anime Corner:
Midna from The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess was the chosen character for this pairing as I wanted to use a character that was both dark and mysterious but also magical and in essence. A dark sorceress but also into the whole nun/monk aspect which would fit with the Belgian abbey style of beers. The story of Trois Pistoles reflects the use of the Lucifer to do God’s biding in the creation of the creation of Our Lady of Snow’s church. Lucifer, in the form of a horse which was bridled and made to carry stones for the construction. This was carried out by a priest who summoned it to do the work. Unfortunately, a worker released it feeling sorry for it and the beast horse disappeared and the church was never finished. In my pairing, Midna wears the chains like that which the horse wore but her appearance similar to that of the dark version of the Virgin Mary also represented the church and its ties to the Vatican. Essentially, in Zelda, Midna is not an evil character, she just looks that way. She helps pay that tribute to the Trois Pistoles brew in the dark magical potion which is still as holy as the ambrosia of gods, hence the name, The Bewitching of Twilight’s Ambrosia.
Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CskbYxBWIAA0Sg4.jpg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/LtIYhP7FvNFFJmYSrV1JyyKN5mRHlegqU8LXSFrgz3PC5IgfYHRWIlLiEUJWzZcV.jpeg?w=1600&v=He_jk21e3WjlLrtL2pS3ga-vFLrqcKOjJg8NBtoyk34%3D
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/13276149709785426563.JPG?w=1600&v=9J0FQMJeEqwM7xulHoNYFEdGzyaKatPppRtXB2r2ehQ%3D
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ecadd-midnahoneymoonb2.jpg

Mango Sombrero Habanero by El Borracho brewing

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Adelita Sánchez, amarillo, Cascade, Centennial, columbus hops, El Borracho brewing, El Borracho Home Brewing, El Libro De La Vida, Habanero chillies, india pale ale, IPA, mango, Mango Sombrero Habanero, Scardelita, The Book of Life | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Mango Sombrero Habanero by El Borracho brewing is a 6.5% ABV India Pale Ale brewing with Mangos and Habanero peppers with Columbus, Cascade, Centennial hops and dry hopped with Amarillo hops.

==Introduction==

A special thanks to my friend Will Carranza who has allowed me to review the next beer in his home brewing adventures. The next homebrew release comes in the form of a Mango IPA. Mango IPAs are always awesome. With this one, he wanted to add a kick to it. So he added habanero. As many know, habaneros are the hottest commonly available peppers. There are hotter ones for sure but this one is definitely hot. This brew was made in an attempt to make his own version of an IPA like Sculpin Habanero. With the Mango however, it would add that spicy mangoneada like flavors. I am hoping that is the case, let’s have a sip, cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, piney, floral, grassy and garlicky hops, stone fruit peach, biscuit bread, honey, Tropical fruit Mango, honey dew melon, kiwi hints, mild peppery hints, tangerine gummies and guava.

Flavors:
Tropical fruit Mango, pineapple, honey dew melon, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava hints, honey notes
Citrus, piney, floral, oniony and grassy hops, biscuit bread, caramel, habanero spice hints, peppercorn hints, coriander hints, tangerine gummies, stone fruit peach, vanilla hints, cherries and mild rye hints

Aftertaste:
Finishes with slight habanero pepper spice on the back end, tropical fruit mango, citrus and floral dank hops. No alcohol in the taste, Golden Medium body, crisp, refreshing, and smooth mouthfeel along with easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious brew. Heat wise, not too spicy although the peppery aspects are there. I mainly enjoyed this one as the tropical fruit flavors and mango shined as the beer warmed up. The mangoneada flavors are super subtle but the mango does shine. While I did bring this up to my friend about getting more mango in the flavors than he did, I think this was true as I do have a tolerance for heat. I did get a bit of spice on the last pour. I think some of the heat settled to the bottom. Overall, this was definitely awesome. My friend said that he would definitely make it spicier next time!

Anime Corner:
Scardelita and Adelita Sánchez from El Libro De La Vida/The Book of Life were chosen to go with the name of the beer and since the ingredients are used in Mexican cuisine. It was easy to see why this pairing would work as the colors in the art of those of the mango oranges, reds and yellows and also the habaneros. The reference to dia de los muertos was also something that worked well too and the sombreros they wear.

Sources:
http://oddmachine.deviantart.com/art/Revolution-492118534
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Adelita-Sanchez-El-Libro-de-la-Vida-490237776
http://www.deviantart.com/art/adelitas-sanchez-528352659

Frucht: Cherry by The Bruery Terreux

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in oak barrels, Berliner Weisse, cherries, Dark Lady, Frucht, Jinx, league of legends, Lux, Rini Moon, Sailor moon, Star Guardians, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | 2 Comments

Rating: 4.8/5

Frucht: Cherry by The Bruery Terreux is 5.4% ABV Berliner Weisse aged in an oak foeder with Cherries.

Label:
Fruity – Funky – Racy

DESCRIPTION
Welcome to Frucht, our land of fruited Berliner Weisse-style beers. Known for a tart flavor profile and traditionally low ABV, our German-style wheat beer gains even more funky notes and natural earthy-woodiness from fermentation in one of our twin oak foeder vessels – the largest known to be fabricated in this country.

Each installment in the series features a new fruit, or Frucht, if we’re Sprechen sie Deutsch. This installment has cherries added, which impart a bright, fruity tartness and elegant hue to the beer.

==Introduction==

Released to all societies and the public, this is the next released in their fruit sour series. There have been many cherry sour ales I have tried. Some better than others but this one is closest to the Cherry Berxarliner from Freet Tail. Or atleast I think since it is the same style with cherries. Although that beer was definitely very balanced in terms of sweet and tartness. This year there have been several releases from the Bruery Terreux and it is Cherry as the next fruit. Let’s see how this one turns out, cheers!

Aromas:
Biscuit bread, vanilla, oak, wine grapes, dark fruit cherries, lemon peel, peppercorn, floral notes, hibiscus, tropical fruit notes, honey, tangerines, strawberries, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava hints, and kumquat hints.

Flavors:
Sweet Tart cherries, biscuit bread, pomegranates, mild raspberries, lemon peel, floral notes, hibiscus, dark cherry yogurt, tangerines, apples, wine grapes, sangria, Concorde grapes, pink salt hints, tropical notes of passion fruit, dragon fruit, pineapple, honey dew melon, banana hints, wheat bread, sourdough bread, oak, vanilla, sour apples, kumquats, tomato hints, farmhouse hay, cherry skins, grapefruit peel and strawberries.

Aftertaste:
Finishes very dry with notes of dark cherries, yogurt, stone fruit, flowers, oak, vanilla and lemon peel. No alcohol in the taste, clear rosy golden light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very cherry tart delicious brew. A true Berlinerweisse with a lot of things going for it. Sweet and Sour but definitely more sour than sweet. Although the complexity is there, its dry finish makes you wanting more. I feel I have had better cherry sours but this one is definitely for the light sour drinkers. People that loveSai sours will enjoy this one.

Anime Corner:
Sailor Rini Moon/Chibi Usa/ Dark Lady from Sailor Moon and the Rini/Dark Lady inspired characters Star Guardians Lux and Jinx from League of Legends were used in this pairing as I wanted to bring Rini to a Bruery beer. Since the artists that released some special art of the inspired Lux character, I wanted to bring her into the pairing as well. She looks just like Rini. Jinx looks just like Dark Lady, which is essentially Rini grown up. The pairing for this beer was mainly for the color but also her character which is mainly sweet but sour at times.

Sources:
http://orig00.deviantart.net/b554/f/2016/073/d/e/black_lady_by_songjikyo-d9v35q8.png
http://att.bbs.duowan.com/forum/201606/20/150846igezcimidngfftf1.jpg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/16108897656374679361.jpg?w=1600&v=u8DRCJW4ntfWCsr13Q2RVb9SpCtWgNJdJgKqA3sBDl8%3D
http://img11.deviantart.net/c3d2/i/2016/281/c/2/star_guardians_by_annacchii-dajr11h.png
http://img.mutimutigazou.com/wp-content/uploads/boots42.jpg

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Tangerine Quad by Avery Brewing

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Alucard, Avery Brewing, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Botanicals & Barrels Series, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Quad, Citrus Tangerina, Hellsing, Seras Victoria, Tangerine Peel, Tangerine Quad, Tangerines | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.35/6

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Tangerine Quad by Avery Brewing is an 10.1% ABV Belgian Quadruple with Tangerine Peel aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Citrus Tangerina

Patiently aged in the finest of Bourbon barrels, this bold Belgian-style Quadrupel layers notes of rich, dark fruit, vanilla, and caramel with a burst of tangerine peel culminating in the vibrancy of this full-bodied creation.

Brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, imported Belgian Specialty malted barley, dark Belgian candy sugar, tangerine peel, hops, and Belgian yeast.

==Introduction==

When I first saw this I thought it was an awesome idea. I am always open to try one of my favorite styles of beer done by different breweries. Especially barrel aged versions of them. This one was a recent release to the Botanicals & Barrels Series by Avery. The only other brew from this series I have tried was the Vanilla Stout aged in Bourbon. That was one was very awesome. I can only hope this one does the same for me. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark candy sugar, caramel, dark fruit raisins, figs, plum, dates, oranges, tangerines, hazelnut, toffee, rye bread, butterscotch, marshmallows, graham crackers, bananas, clove spice, fruit cake, vanilla, oak hints, bourbon, lemon hints, stone fruits and mild coconut.

Flavors:
Rich Tangerines, tangerine gummies, Dark candy sugar, caramel, oak, toasted coconut, bourbon, vanilla, marshmallow smores, pecan, pie, dark fruit raisins, figs, plum, dates, fruit cake, cinnamon, raw sun oranges, old orange notes, lemon peel, kumquats, stone fruit peach, apricot, banana hints, clove spice hints, rye bread, toasted bread, toffee, butterscotch and hazelnut hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich with citrus, caramel, dark fruit hints, hints of oak, bourbon, rye bread, banana hints and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, crimson amber clear body, smooth, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bit exceptional quad simply due to the transformation given off of the tangerines and the bourbon barrel aging process. While I think the brew is damn awesome and very complex, essentially the brew does have some downsides from being a perfect exceptional brew. For starters, the tangerine, while very delicious, overwhelms the rest of the flavors. The others do come up but not in a balanced way the way other quads do. It is still very ridiculously awesome. I still highly recommend it if you love quads so you can give it a try.

Anime Corner:
Seras Victoria from Hellsing was chosen in this pairing because I wanted some dark fruit colors and religious influences to pair with the style of the brew. The Orange hair was for the Tangerines. Essentially, the show is about using the powers of Alucard under the control of the Vatican to vanquish monsters and demons from the world of the living. Seras essentially was turned immortal by Alucard so she wouldn’t die but it also changed her as well. So in this pairing, I tried to get the colors to fit with the amber and crimson colors of this quad and the flavors amplified with dark fruits and tangerines. Also, bourbon barrel aging would denote their power.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/HELLSING.full.756830.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2014-11-13-686293.jpeg
http://www.animextremist.com/imagenes/hellsing/hellsing30.jpg
http://randomarchive.com/data/b/image/1456/955/1456955587313.jpg

Altar of Sacrifice by El Borracho Brewing

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Altar of Sacrifice, cacao nibs, El Borracho brewing, El Borracho Home Brewing, Evangelion, Imperial Red Ale, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Oak Aged Ale, Rei Ayanami, Reposado Tequila Barrels, Tequila Oak Aged | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Altar of Sacrifice by El Borracho is a 9% ABV Imperial Red Ale brewed with Cacao Nibs and Oak aged in Reposado Tequila.

==Introduction==

Obtained this brew from my friend Will Carranza of El Borracho brewing. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to try his brews as many of the brews he has made thus far are amazing. When he told me of his idea to make an Imperial Red I thought it was awesome. When he said he will add cacao nibs and aged in in Oak tequila, I was sold! Today I bring his new brew to the website, Altar of Sacrifice. An Imperial Red that is as viscous as actual hemoglobin and plasma. The name was inspired by the Aztecs and the ritual sacrifices they did in the Pre-Hispanic times in order to appease the Gods. Such an awesome tribute and Metal as Fuck! So without further ado, let’s sacrifice this one. Cheers!

Aromas:
Citrucy, grapefruit, floral, piney and grassy hops, mild oak, dark fruit, rye bread, caramel, honey, chocolate, cherries, tropical fruit notes, oranges, vanilla, graham crackers and toffee.

Flavors:
Piney, Grassy, floral and earthy hops, Caramel, Toffee, mild vanilla, butterscotch, tequila notes, agave hints, Honey, Dark Chocolate, mild milk chocolate, tootsie rolls, Dark fruit raisin hints, rye bread, oranges, grapefruit, citrus, oak, sangria hints, dark cherries, tropical fruit pineapple, passion fruit hints, dragon fruit, honey dew melon hints, papaya, tangerine gummies, lemon peel, and graham crackers.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with tropical fruit, piney, citrucy and earthy hops, mild dark chocolate, fruit cake, toffee, honey, rye bread, oak, and mild Tequila on the back end. No alcohol in the taste, Deep Bloody Crimson full body, refreshing, smooth, crisp and chewy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect brew and this is due to the oak aging in Tequila and the cacao nibs. I love how the extra measures my friend took to make this beer better actually gave it the extra points to make it perfect. I do think the chocolate flavors do help to balance out the bitter hops and oak found in this one. The name was definitely fitting for the beer. This one is a definite sipper and an awesome red like the best ones I have had in the past. This one should definitely be rebrewed!

Anime Corner:
Rei Ayanami from Neon Genesis Evangelion was chosen in this pairing as I can only think of sacrifice to the sceneries that comes out in the series. Especially at the end of the series and during the annihilation of all the characters and all the Rei clones. So definitely with what my friend Will was going for in terms of sacrifice I do believe this fits very well.

Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CxsG7cOUAAEKv0v.jpg
http://img11.deviantart.net/4260/i/2012/340/b/7/cross_of_lorraine_by_hasumi-d5n7v40.jpg

2016 Chronology:18 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chronology:18, Extreme Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters, Kylie Griffin, Scotch Ale, SCOTCHOLOGY, The Bruery, Wee Heavy | 1 Comment

Rating: 6.5/7

2016 Chronology:18 Wee Heavy by the Bruery is a 14.2% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels for 18 months.

Label:
SCOTCHOLOGY
This wee heavy ale aged in bourbon barrels is the third in a chronologically aged series released at six-month intervals to chart the evolution of barrel-aged character over time.

In this installment of our Chronology Series We brewed a wee heavy – known for rich, malt-forward flavors – and set it to age in bourbon barrels. Every six months, we’ll take a quarter of the barrels, blend them and bottle them. This third bottling represents the nuances imparted to the base beer after eighteen months of barrel aging.

==Introduction==

It has been another 6 months since the last release of the Chronology Series: Wee Heavy. I am not sure if they are leaving this one to be the last one in the Wee Heavy series but regardless, I hope it is better than the last installment. For the second run of this series, so far, barrel aging has done wonders. I think for many styles this would definitely work out. So as we set forth to trying the next brew, I hope they complete it at 24 like they did the last one. Next year, we will be seeing an Imperial Porter aged for several months. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, smoked peat, Cadbury cream caramel and chocolate eggs, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, tobacco, leather, dark fruit prunes, raisins, currants, raspberries, plums, figs, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, marshmallows, chocolate smores, scotch whisky, chocolate turtle truffles, almond joy chocolate and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Super Cadbury cream caramel and chocolate eggs, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Jericalla Mexican custard, flan, fruit cake, chocolate turtle truffles, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, rich pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, smoked peat, marshmallows, chocolate smores, scotch whisky, rum notes, toffee, port wine, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, chocolate mousse, dark fruit prunes, raisins, currants, raspberries, plums, figs, nutmeg, maple syrup, bananas, clove spice, anise, licorice, molasses, tobacco, leather, cherry marzipan and rich prailine Danish bread cookies.

Aftertaste:
Ongoing delights of Danish cream, Cadbury eggs, dark fruits, oak, anise, Scotch whiskey, smoked peat hints, marshmallow smores, crème brulee, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and toasted coconuts. No alcohol in the taste, Dark brown full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn, Damn damn damn! Probably the best wee heavy I have ever had!! The flavors or sweet murky Cadbury eggs and extreme complexity are never ending. I would almost give it the bucket lister treatment if it wasn’t for the fact that there is one final installment in the series. This is utter proof that beers that are aged specialties will age ridiculously to the point where they are supreme. Long after sipping, you will spend several minutes still feeling the flavors in your mouth. This thing coats big time like spirit possession. Which is funny as I do have to say something about that in the picture pairing. Anyways, this beer is a must get as it is aging very well.

Anime Corner:
Kylie Griffin from Extreme Ghostbusters was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the colors of the label mainly. Her hair and other colors fit but also fit the other aspects of the beer like the dark fruit flavors. As I tried the beer, I noticed how the flavors just linger for a long time. So long that it was almost like a possession of a ghost or spirit. Which actually fits the theme I was going for as Kylie is a Ghostbuster and the beer needs capturing. It is damn good!

Sources:
http://pre09.deviantart.net/a7aa/th/pre/f/2014/330/9/3/kylie_by_adgrafiteepixel-d87rscf.jpg
http://orig02.deviantart.net/2935/f/2016/226/b/5/kylie_griffin__extreme_ghostbuster__by_luke_kage-dadveja.png
http://img04.deviantart.net/c3a3/i/2012/333/9/9/kylie_by_nessasan-d5mkfck.png

Stone Give Me Stout or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia

December 20, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ardent Craft Ales, blackberries, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, Commonwealth of Virginia, Hardywood Park Brewery, Imperial Stout, Kancolle/Kantai Collection, Kantai Collection, Raspberries, Richmond Virginia, Stone Brewing, Stone Give Me Stout or Give Me Death, Tenryuu, Terry McAuliffe, Virginia | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Stone Give Me Stout or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia is a 9.5% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Raspberries & Blackberries from the commonwealth of Virginia

Label:
Virginia Commemorative Collaboration

An Imperial Tribute to Richmond & the rise of craft beer independence.

Just as Patrick Henry once stood addressing the city of Richmond in 1775 to spur resistance against the tyrannical British Empire, 20 years ago we were stirred to join the cry for resistance against the tyrannical oppression of industrial beer. And now, the opening of our Richmond brewery is yet another shot in the salvo that has been fired on behalf of American brewing independence. If we wish to brew free, if we mean to retain our identity and preserve the privilege of access to independent craft beer, we must recognize it is a group effort. We do not stand alone. And so, on our new brewing grounds, we gathered with fellow craft breweries and “His Excellency,” Governor McAuliffe, to join together in force. A group cry of freedom & independence! Consider this aggressively hopped imperial stout, jam-packed with Virginia raspberries and blackberries, a testament to our passion and unwillingness to settle or sell out! We think Patrick Henry would be proud, and hope you will be too.

Our Collaborators
Ardent Craft Ales
Hardywood Park Brewery
His Excellency Terry McAuliffe, Virginia Governor.

==Introduction==

The first brew I get to try from Stone in Richmond Virginia. To commemorate their opening, they brewed this stout using local blackberries and raspberries. The fact that it was a fruit stout was we really got me to go find this and bring it to the site. Many stone outlets sold this one early and will be hitting national distribution. So expect to see this one near you. Stone stouts tend to be somewhat aggressive but very delicious. Which makes me wonder how this one will go since it is using fruit. Let’s have a sip, cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted Barley notes, coffee, earthy hop notes, tobacco hints, anise, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, blackberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, fruit cake, brown sugar and hazelnut hints.

Flavors:
Deep Dark Chocolate mixed berry cordials, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, plums, raspberries, cherries, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, grassy, piney and earthy hop notes, tobacco, anise, molasses, roasted barley, roasted coffee, mocha, pecan pie, crème brulee, flan, stone fruit peach hints, brown sugar, fruit cake, mild soy sauce, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate brownies, chocolate raspberry cake, hazelnut nectar, rye bread with boysenberry preserves, raspberry and blackberry yogurt hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with dark chocolate, earthy hop notes, dark fruit hints, mixed berries, vanilla, caramel, molasses, roasted barley and coffee notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body. Smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect stout. This one was definitely more in terms of bring out the rich full stout flavors. While I did not increase the rating anymore as the berries are mainly there for support and balance out the flavors, on its own it is super damn amazing. Yes I do believe with more fruit forward and chocolate forward flavors I would have been moved to give it the higher grade but this is just enough to really say it is perfect enough. It is also very hoppy too but will probably release more chocolate and fruit with age. I will definitely need to try and get more of these bottles to cellar. I think they have an awesome winner here that I highly recommend!

Anime Corner:
Tenryuu from Kantai Collection (KanColle) was chosen for this pairing was chosen for this pairing as I wanted to match some of her colors with that of the label and the ingredients. Her attitude to perceiver I think works well with the name. Give Me Stout or Give Me Death is a strong statement that seems very demanding. Just like Tenryuu’s character. She doesn’t look like she gives a damn and will mess up anyone that gets in her way.

Sources:
https://k60.kn3.net/taringa/3/6/D/0/4/C/zDystopia/64C.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cp88CcAW8AECMas.jpg:large
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/tenryuu-(kantai-collection)-Kantai-Collection-Anime-Опасные-Няшки-1985236.jpeg
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Kantai-Collection-Tenryuu-920580.jpeg

Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 12 Beers of Christmas, 8 Maids A Milking, aged in Bourbon Barrels, Ayeka Masaki Jurai, Belgian Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking, Imperial Milk Stout, Kiyone Makibi, Mihoshi, Nagi, Ryo-Ohki, Ryoko Hakubi, sasami, Sweet Stout, Tenchi, Tenchi Muyo, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Washu Hakubi | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.25/7

Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery is an 13.7% ABV Belgian Imperial Milk Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

This is what happens when eight maids lay down in bourbon barrels for a year: a rare display of darker, velvety chocolate notes to 8 Maids-a-Milking, the eighth beer in our 12 Days of Christmas series.

This is 8 Maids-A-Milking, the eighth beer in our 12 Days of Christmas series, aged in bourbon barrels for about a year. The Belgian-style imperial milk stout emerges this holiday season with deeper, richer, darker milk chocolate notes, along with amplified roastiness and ripples of caramel, coconut and vanilla character. Drink alongside the 2015 release to revel in the udderances achieved through barrel-aging.

==Introduction==

Released to the Reserve and Hoarders society. This beer is based on the original 8 Maids A Milking which was released in 2015. The original was very damn delicious. The Belgian Imperial Milk Stout isn’t something that is always brewed. The last time I had one was when I made the Trappist Milk Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels which was the Oblivixen’s Maelstrom. I had recalled there were some flavors of the Bruery’s 8 Maids a Milking in that beer but ofcourse mines was amped up several degrees with barrel aging and different ingredients. Now that we have the barrel aged version of what I think is one of the Bruery’s best Christmas beers, let’s have a look and see if this is worth finding, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich oak, bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugar, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, chocolate cherry cordials, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses and bananas.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, chocolate cherry cordials, vanilla, oak, bourbon, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugar, Stone fruit peach hints, peach preserves, apricots, mango, lychee fruit, rocky road ice cream, bananas, clove spice, milk sugar, rock candy, pistachio ice cream, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate, peanut butter notes, cocoa krispies, hazelnut nectar, mocha, roasted coffee notes, marshmallow smores, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses, mints, anise and toasted rye bread.

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

Overall:
Holy shit, this is a real mind blow! The original was one of my favorite Belgian Milk Stouts aside from my own creation. This barrel aged version is even more insane. You get the great barrel aging flavors that the Bruery’s process gives and still get a lot of the original but definitely enhanced into a new level of oblivion. The chocolate milk, toasted coconut, dark fruit and caramel goodness is really over the top. If you do decide to get this one, definitely get several of these, you won’t regret it!

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

Sources:
http://todoanimes.com/img/animes/fondos/382.jpg

Mélange 10 (Mélange X) by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Backstreet Billiards, Barleywine, Beer Hybrid, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chiles, Cinnamon, May, Mélange 10, Mélange X, Mexican Chocolate, mole, Old Ale, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Mélange 10 (Mélange X) by The Bruery is a 15% ABV Old Ale and Barleywine Hybrid brewed with Chiles, Mexican Chocolate & Cinnamon and aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
60% Bourbon barrel aged Anniversary ale and
40% Bourbon barrel aged barleywine with chilies, chocolate, and cinnamon.

A Hoarders Society competition yielded this south of the border blend of Bourbon barrel aged Anniversary and Barrel Aged Old Richland with Ancho chiles and Mexican-style chocolate.

Mélange #10 was designed by Hoarders Society members for Hoarders Society members. This barrel aged specialty is best enjoyed fresh, but may develop pleasantly if cellared properly.
==Introduction==

Released originally for the Hoarders society and then in 2016, released to Reserve society members. I had actually missed out on this one due to that reason. It does seem that a good amount of Hoarder exclusive beers have started to become available to the lower tiers as the years go in. In fact, it is getting to the point where some of the old releases will see public releases in the future. This release is definitely different as they are not using part of a stout but an old ale and barleywine. So the use of the Mexican chocolate, chilies and cinnamon will definitely make for one very unique brew. Let’s just see if it is worthy of the praise, cheers!

Aromas:
Ginger bread, nutmeg, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, figs, cherries, currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, flan, bananas, clove spice, marshmallows, Molé spices, coconut hints, coffee cake, tobacco hints, vanilla, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, and molasses.

Flavors:
Rich chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, flan, pecan pie, stone fruit peach cobbler, brown sugar, nutmeg, ginger bread, pan dulce, capirotada raisin bread pudding, ancho chile, guajillo chile, all spice, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, figs, cherries, currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, sweet yams, pecan pie, anise, molasses, bananas, clove spice, marshmallows, Molé spices, coconut hints, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toffee, chai spice, tobacco hints, coffee cake, biscuit bread, nougat caramel, Mexican fudge cake and coconut.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with chocolate abuelita flavors, cinnamon, ginger spice, vanilla, caramel, chile hints and coffee hints. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Dark full body, smooth, creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptionally decadent brew. Not too heat wise spicy, but spicy none the less. Semi Sweet with the chocolate but because it is an old ale and barleywine blend, the complex flavors are different than any other Mexican Chocolate or Molé beer. The fact is, the different level of spices really comes out more but at the same time, it is still balanced. Definitely find this one if you can, cheers!

Anime Corner:
May from Backstreet Billiards was chosen for this pairing to go with the colors, the flavors, the ingredients and the theme of the beer. Essentially, a Molé and Mexican hot chocolate beer. Since she is a favorite character of mines for many years, I tend to bring her back with beers that correlate with Mexican heritage as she complements these beers well. Especially for a Mélange series brew, Ahuevo!

Sources:
http://s27.postimg.org/ht9xex4cj/bsb_copy.jpg

Rueminator by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in oak barrels, Chip, Chip n' Dale, Dale, Doppelbock, Gadget Hackwrench, German Doppelbock, Monty Jack, Rescue Rangers, Rueminator, The Bruery, wheat, Zipper | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Rueminator by The Bruery is a 10% ABV German Doppelbock aged in oak barrels.

Label:
In the 1600s, Franciscan monks created the world’s first doppelbock. In 2008, Patrick Rue established The Bruery. The best of both worlds come together in this rich, malty lager,

It’s quite common for breweries to have “-ator” in the suffix of their doppelbock names. But ours has something theirs does not: A Rue in the prefix (and in the name of our brewery). Rueminator builds on the liquid bread legacy of the doppelbock style and gives it extra fortitude in the traditional fashion of The Bruery. This rich, hearty, smooth lager gains even more depth and character from extensive aging in charred new American oak barrels.

==Introduction==

Released back in September to Reserve and Hoarders Society, it was only recently that I was able to get this one due to me forgetting that I had purchased one of these back then. For a 10% malty German lager, you know it would still stand the test of time. Even for a couple of months. Not to mention, the majority of the Bruery beers age well. So this awesome one would be no different. Now they had made an awesome Weizen bock but not necessarily a doppelbock. These are some of my favorite German beer styles along with the Dunkelweizens, Eisbocks and triple bocks. Regardless, since they are starting to do more German styles, I wish I should have attended their Oktoberfest, maybe next year. Anyways, let’s see if this is a beer worth getting, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit prunes, plums, raisins, figs, bananas, clove spice, rye bread, honey, mild coconut, apples, dark candy sugar, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, crème brulee, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, brown sugar and trail mix hints.

Flavors:
Rich Dulce de leche caramel, toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, crème brulee, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, dark fruit prunes, plums, raisins, figs, bananas, clove spice, rye bread, oak, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, brown sugar, hazelnut, pecan pie, molasses, trail mix, candied yams, biscuit bread, dark cherries, blackberry preserves, malty wheat bread, stone fruit peaches, honey, mild coconut, apples, dark candy sugar, raisin bread pudding, maple syrup and mild coffee notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich caramels, dark fruits, earthy notes, oak, marshmallow smores, molasses, bread pudding and flan hints. No alcohol in the taste. Dark crimson medium body, smooth, chewy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very exceptional doppelbock. I find it very interesting that the Bruery beers are always like “in your face” type of beers. This is awesome since some styles do get amped up to another level. Especially when oak barrel aging. What that process did for this beer is simply amazing. So much complex flavors for a basic German Dark Lager. An Imperial lager at that. With that being said, it was definitely awesome and as close to the deliciousness of some of the best doppelbocks I have ever had. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Gadget Hackwrench and the Rescue Rangers were used in this pairing mainly for the label colors but I wanted a reason to use her and the team for a Bruery beer. Especially since I have not used her or the others in much of any beers. Also, using the suffix –nator that goes with doppelbocks, I decided to go with a pic that represents her as being similar to the Terminator. Since, well, you know, if she ever went mad and tried to take over the world with robots. I don’t know, I just thought it was creative. I think the use of the specific pairings might be a stretch, but they do look bad ass regardless.

Sources:
http://orig02.deviantart.net/ef66/f/2009/082/9/3/imperial_gadget_hackwrench_by_skimen.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/814d/f/2016/253/2/f/gadget_hackwrench_by_bbmbbf-dah6p53.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pq8Bd.jpg
http://www.tikihumor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2014/12/modern-chip-n-dale.jpg

Saturday Morning Cartoons Brew Berry Scary Cereal Milk Stout by Brew Rebellion

December 12, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Blueberries, Boo Berry Cereal, Brew Berry Scary Cereal Milk Stout, Brew Rebellion, Hex Maniac, Milk Stout, Pokemon, Saturday Morning Cartoons, Saturday Morning Cartoons Breakfast Cereal Milk Stout, Sweet Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Saturday Morning Cartoons Brew Berry Scary Cereal Milk Stout by Brew Rebellion is a 7.7% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Spooky Blueberry Cereal.

==Introduction==

As part of this delicious Saturday Morning Cartoons series breakfast, this brew is based on the Spooky Boo Berry cereal. This is the second time I try a beer in their Saturday Morning Cartoon breakfast cereal series. The first one being the damn awesome Fruity Pebbles inspired one. They make many others but this one is one I had to find for the season. Yes it is Christmas time but it is never too late to celebrate Halloween. Especially since it was also done with The Nightmare Before Christmas. Blueberries are awesome and just the fact that this one brought me back to the times when they release the special Halloween cereals once a year, I had to get it. Just like the young be buying a box of Boo Berries, well, my parents did. There is a Count Chocula cereal beer made by another brewery but I have yet to find it. I wonder if they make Franken Berries too. Anyways, let’s take a dive into this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruit blueberries, raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake, crème brulee, Irish cream, Oreo cookies and cream, brown sugar, caramel and vanilla.

Flavors:
Rich blueberries, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, rye bread, butterscotch, caramel, vanilla, dark candi sugar, molasses, anise hints, blueberry yogurt, blueberry coffee cake, chocolate blueberry cordials, Irish cream, Oreo cookies and cream, brown sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate, cookie dough icecream, Danish cream, blueberries and flan, blueberry muffins, chocolate mousse, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake, crème brulee and blueberry sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich chocolate blueberries, blueberry yogurt, dark fruits, marshmallows, vanilla, caramel, almond joy and rocky road ice cream. No alcohol in the taste, dark abyss full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and Very Easy to drink.

Overall:
An exceptional brew. Not because of its special aging but because it got it damn right. This is literally going back to the your waking up during Halloween Saturday mornings and eating some Boo Berries while watching the Halloween cartoon specials on TV. I have had many delicious blueberry stouts and I can say that those are similar to this one or even better but in this case, the appreciation to the blueberry cereal taste is what really drives this one home for sure. I highly recommend you get this one for nostalgia purposes.

Anime Corner:
Hex Maniac from the Pokemon series is a trainer that is mainly into the occult. I chose her be cause she pairs very well with the colors, flavors, ingredients and the theme of the beer. The Scary Boo Berries. Also the fact that Pokemon is a Saturday morning cartoon from my youth and into today, it counts with the Saturday morning cartoon series. Also, the little ghost cereal pieces that look like the Pacman ghosts go well with the ghosties in the pictures too!

Sources:
http://orig01.deviantart.net/e21e/f/2015/172/9/c/hex_maniac_vector_by_therollfan-d8oggsf.png
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a4/7e/ab/a47eab4bff2e9791a1f1f0412eebc871.jpg
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/896/658/ca9.jpg
http://68.media.tumblr.com/984a35df252c13b485277cc4932ea384/tumblr_ohld10YSYm1sy077to1_1280.jpg