Lizard of Koz by Founders brewing

December 12, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Blueberries, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chocolate, Founders Brewing, Imperial Stout, King of Fighters, KOF, Leona Heidern, Lizard of Koz, Metal Slug, SNK, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Lizard of Koz by Founders brewing is a 10.5% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Blueberries, Chocolate and Vanilla aged in Bourbon Barrels.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
This one is near and dear to our hearts. Brewmaster Jeremy Kosmicki wanted to make the birthday of his little sister, Liz, a special one. So he did what he does best and brewed a stout using a few of her favorite ingredients: fresh Michigan blueberries, rich chocolate and vanilla aged in bourbon barrels to round out those beautiful flavors. Liz was floored and we think you will be too.

==Introduction==

Founders does not release many barrel aged brews but the ones they do release are bad ass! KBS and Backwoods Bastards are no exceptions to these rules as both are world class beers. This one comes towards us like bat out of hell or a Godzilla rising out of the water ready to start a fight with some bitch ass monsters. Oh wait, it is a lizard on the label. The name Lizard of Koz can have many meanings. Koz as in the 7th division head priest or according to the urban dictionary, a word you can use any way you want and it will still make sense. The only thing that makes sense right now is this brew review so let’s show the world what this blue berry radiation from Godzilla’s spines is all about, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Blueberries, vanilla, bourbon, oak, caramel, anise, molasses, dulce de leche caramel, brown sugar, cinnamon, coffee cake, Kahlua liqueur, dark fruit raisins, blueberries, currants, pomegranates, raspberries, blueberries cheese cake, blueberry marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate and toasted coconut hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, dark fruit raisins,blueberries, currants, pomegranates, raspberries, blueberries cheese cake, blueberry marshmallow smores, blueberry mint ice cream, anise, molasses, tobacco hints, bourbon, oak, pecan pie, bananas, coffee cake, Kahlua liqueur, fruit cake, licorice hints, maple syrup, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, cinnamon, cookie dough ice cream, Danish cream, steamed blueberry milk, blueberry yogurt, blueberry preserves on toasted rye bread, mocha, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee and toasted coconut.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich dark fruits, blueberry yogurt, chocolate, vanilla, caramel, bourbon, banana hints, marshmallows, Danish cream and brown sugar. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Another Barrel aged bucket lister hitting the list right next to BBA Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard and Birra Artigianale Draco by Birrificio Montegioco. This one definitely lets the blueberries, chocolate and vanilla drive the point forward long with a rich complexity provided by the base beer and the bourbon oak. They were for going for a damn decadent rich blueberry dessert and damn, the achieved gold! This literally hits you flat on your face with rich flavors. I highly recommend you get this one!

Anime Corner:
Leona Heidern from SNK’s King of Fighters/Metal Slug series was chosen not only because they relased a bad ass brew, but because sometimes you just need a bad ass character to make a bad ass representation. Leona gives the manliest of men blue balls not just by her looks but by kicking the shit out of her opponents and them saying thank you and coming back for more. Leona don’t take shit from no one and just like this beer is ridiculous, so is she. Can you really dominate this brew? Good fucking luck!!

Sources:
https://k61.kn3.net/taringa/2/7/8/2/1/0/95/zangetsuariel/8DB.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/bc/5f/59/bc5f59ab5c12b200f5caba427e38a594.jpg
https://cdnb3.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/003/013/155/large/mu-hyeon-seong-.jpg?1468492529
https://yt3.ggpht.com/-o9yX4hZJKRY/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAAA/Pimj5zsj1fg/s900-c-k-no-mo-rj-c0xffffff/photo.jpg
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/king-of-fighters-Игры-leona-heidern-taroimo-(00120014)-3340752.png

HA! HA! by El Segundo brewing

December 12, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bart Simpson, dry hopped, El Segundo Brewing, HA! HA!, india pale ale, IPA, Marge Simpson, Nelson Muntz, Nelson Sauvin, The Simpsons | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

HA! HA! by El Segundo brewing is a 7.4% ABV India Pale Ale brewed and dry hopped with Nelson Sauvin Hops.

Label:
Nelson is quite the “bully” of a hop, always taking center stage. This India Pale Ale showcases the best he has to offer. Now… Stop depriving yourself, and drink up!

==Introduction==

Sometimes breweries make specialty IPAs that are single hopped or single malted. For El Segundo, a pure Nelson Sauvin hopped brew would make sense that they name it after the Simpson’s character, Nelson Muntz and his iconic laugh, HA! HA! It is very catchy and for a beer tribute to the Simpsons, it would only be a matter of time before I would do a review with Simpsons characters on it. Aside from that, Nelson Sauvin hops are a favorite of many hop heads for their aroma and flavors close to Sauvignon Blanc which are the wild green skinned grapes that are grown in many regions for wine, specifically Bordeaux, France. How they got such a cop is amazing. I am a more tropical hop person myself (Citra, Simcoe, Mosaic and Amarillo) but it is always nice to see hops be appreciated for their uniqueness to beers. In fact, I think technically, this would be my first time having a pure Nelson hopped brew. Let’s check it out, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apricot, sweetened condensed milk hints, vanilla hints, white wine grapes, Sauvignon Blanc, graham crackers, honey, lemon candy, orange peel, tropical fruit honey dew melon, berries, mango, passion fruit, earthy, floral and grassy hops.

Flavors:
Tropical fruit honey dew melon, pineapple, mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, gooseberries, raspberries, cherries, strawberries, piney, grassy, earthy, herbal and floral hops, stone fruit peaches, apricot, sweetened condensed milk hints, white wine grapes, Sauvignon Blanc, graham crackers, honey, lemon candy, orange peel, vanilla, caramel hints, guavas and lychees.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with tropical fruit, herbal, floral and grassy hops, white grape hints, stone fruits and vanilla hints. No alcohol in the taste, honey colored clear body, smooth, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Another perfect IPA from El Segundo Brewing. These guys have never stopped amazing me ever since my first visit and the Power Plant Triple IPA that always blows my mind. That beer to this day is still one of my top favorites and in my mind still continues even through the juice haze craze with East Coast beers. However, this beer really shines with tropical fruits as well and the wild green grapes the hops are named for definitely bleed through in this beer. Very delicious and refreshing. If you are a fan of the Simpsons and IPAs, get this one!

Anime Corner:
Nelson Muntz, Bart Simpson, Michael D’Amico and Marge Simpson from the Simpsons were used in this pairing as the beer is tribute to the Simpsons. I always wanted to use Marge in a beer pairing but never found the opportunity. She definitely pairs well with the label colors. Ofcourse, I also wanted to bring Nelson himself as he is the star this beer is named for even for a Simpsons inspired brew.

Sources:
http://art.ngfiles.com/images/317000/317129_blisschild1_marge.png
http://orig12.deviantart.net/380c/f/2012/299/d/2/adult_michael_nelson_bart_by_matsuri1128-d5j1hsl.jpg
http://spi3uk.itvnet.lv/upload/articles/23/232315/images/Blue-hair-27.png
http://img10.deviantart.net/dbf7/i/2013/300/3/d/nelson_muntz__the_simpsons__pixel_art_by_matbox99-d6s1oku.png

Seven Sharks A-Circling by Karl Strauss

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 12 Beers of Christmas, Cinder Fall, Coco Adel, Emerald Sustrai, Holiday Ale, Imperial Porter, Karl Strauss, Neopolitan, Penny Polendina, Raven Branwen, Rwby, Seven Sharks A-Circling, Smoked Porter, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Twelve Beers of San Diego Christmas, Twelve Days of Christmas series, Velvet Scarlatina | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Seven Sharks A-Circling by Karl Strauss is a 9% ABV Holiday Imperial Smoked Porter

Label:
Each year, leopard sharks flock to the warm waters of San Diego. But these little guys aren’t out for blood; they much prefer the taste of the newest local brew. (Yep, leopard sharks love craft beer. It’s science.) Introducing Seven Sharks A-Circling, the 7th installment in our “Twelve Days” holiday series. This Imperial Smoked Porter is brewed with a blend of caramel and smoked malts for bold flavors of chocolate, coffee, and a subtle beach-bonfire-like smokiness. It finishes sweet and smooth. You’re gonna need a bigger glass.

==Introduction==

The 7th release of the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego was released this year now available in time for the Holidays. As the 7th installment in the series, each year, Karl Strauss has been releasing awesome hit after awesome hit. Ever since I tried the Fruit cake forward Mouette à Trois, I was hooked on this series. After completing the review with Two Tortugas, it was about time I finally got to the next one in the series. This is themed with sharks. Instead of Swans swimming, it’s sharks swimming but circling around their prey. I am not sure how a smoked Imperial porter would work as a Christmas beer other than sitting toasty by the fire around Christmas time which would make sense. Either way, let’s have a look at another amazing installment in the series. Cheers!

Aromas:
Smokey notes, campfire oak, vanilla, caramel, mocha, fruit cake, ginger bread, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, whiskey oak hints, marshmallows, hazelnut nectar, molasses, licorice, anise, tobacco and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich caramel, rye bread, smoked malts, coffee, espresso, burnt candy sugar, dark fruit prunes, currants, cinnamon, toasted fruit cake, dark chocolate, BBQ sauce hints, brown sugar, campfire oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mocha, fig pudding, molasses, licorice, anise, tobacco, soy sauce hints, maple syrup, whiskey notes, pecans, hazelnut nectar and marshmallow smores.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich dark fruits, smoked oak, rye bread, tobacco, earthy notes, licorice, anise, fruit cake, marshmallow smores and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste. Dark crimson full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect smoked brew. I haven’t a smoked porter in a very long time and the way this was made definitely brings in some subtle notes of Christmas. I really would love to know what part of it has the subtle holiday spices since they do seem to be there but the smokiness tends to balance things out for this one. So you still get the Christmas aspect of the beer along with some smoky goodness. If you love smokey brews, give this one a shot!

Anime Corner:
7 Girls from the RWBY series, 3 are antagonist (Cinder Fall [center], Emerald Sustrai [left standing] and Neopolitan [left sitting]) 1 questionable (Raven Branwen on the most left) and 3 supporting protagonist characters (Penny Polendina [Right side next to Cinder], Velvet Scarlatina [laying down on the right] and Coco Adel [Right]) They were all used in this pairing to go with the 7 sharks a circling. Now, the fact that they are on the beach also goes with the theme. Some of these sharks are evil and some are good. So the fact that there is a balance in the characters, the shark species and the balance in this brew was the perfect harmonious pairing.

Sources:
http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/rwby/images/0/04/Commission_rwby_bikini_2_by_jadenkaiba-d9aicw6.png/revision/latest?cb=20150922193310

Unicorn Juice by Artifex brewing

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wheat, Artifex brewing, Celestia, MLP, passion fruit, Twilight Sparkle, Unicorn, Unicorn Juice | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Unicorn Juice by Artifex brewing is a 5% ABV American Wheat brewed with Passion Fruit.

Label:
American Wheat with Passion Fruit. No unicorns were harmed while making this beer.

==Introduction==

I first saw this one while browsing for beers at Mr. K’s liquor near the Bruery. I didn’t think much of it until I saw the name of the beer and what it was made with. After I had left the store I realized, damn, I should have checked it out. Soon after that, I saw it again and here we are. After looking about some past posts on Untappd, I had found that I did get to try this one at the Bruery’s anniversary party. That’s when I realized oh my god, how could I forget. This is the first beer I have tried from Artifex aside from their Hibisc-This which was an event offering. They were both really good but there was definitely something special about this one. Now that I have it here, let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, wheat, biscuit bread, waffle cone, passion fruit, dragon fruit, tropical fruit pineapple, strawberry, lemon candy, floral hops and stone fruit peaches.

Flavors:
Rich Passion fruit, Dragon fruit, sweetened condensed milk, flan, vanilla, biscuit bread, banana hints, tropical fruit pineapple, strawberries, raspberry hints, oranges, lemon candy, honey, coriander hints, honey dew melon, mango, lychees, tangerine gummies, floral hops, stone fruit apricot hints, agave nectar, cane sugar, crème brulee hints and wafflecones.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich in tropical fruits of passion fruits, stone fruits, biscuit bread, oranges and honey. No alcohol in the taste. Golden Pale hazy light to medium body, crisp, clean, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:
Perfect American Wheat! Like biting into a pure passion fruit pulp. This was definitely worth the grab. I can see why the name would fit so damn well. It is an exotic fruit, like the exotic passion fruit. Regardless, this beer is very delicious. So much so, that I would definitely want to brew something like this. The only thing that comes close was when I brewed the Passion Mango Cider which was a major hit among my peers. So making an American Wheat or similar would definitely be something awesome. Highly recommend on this one.

Anime Corner:
Twilight Sparkle and Celestia from MLP was chosen was chosen as the Unicorn in the pairing. The purpose of this was obvious from the colors of the label being bright purple and well, Twilight, while being a Pegasus, does have a horn like a Unicorn, so I figured it would work out fine. It also applies to Celestia as the label is holographic and has many colors. It isn’t often I do pairings with MLP characters but it is always good to give tribute to other fandoms out there.

Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/MnzlRlIuC08UU5BB3BbJj0xk2hyYEE1JlwV3stVOWZlmn5XOYaefl40jEw2QaLiY.jpeg?w=1600&v=Q-KZFTdbOxvFu1FiLUDAop2RBYLbctR4sa2rW9eX_1A%3D
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/mlp-art-my-little-pony-фэндомы-Twilight-Sparkle-2441236.jpeg
http://i.imgur.com/m6zxN.jpg

Peanut Butter Dark Seas by Mission Brewery

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Al-Azif, chocolate peanut butter, Dark Seas, Demonbane, Donne Anonime, Franco il Nero, Ignis, Jingai Makyō, Mission brewing, nitroplus, Outlaw Django, peanut butter, Peanut Butter Dark Seas, Russian Imperial Stout, Tre Donne Crudeli | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Peanut Butter Dark Seas by Mission Brewery is 9.8% ABV Russian Imperial Stout brewed with Peanut Butter.

Label:
Since the very first batch, the recipe for Mission Dark Seas has remained unchanged. The classic, award winning Imperial Stout is rich in toasted coffee, chocolate and all those bold roasted flavors. WE have added peanut butter for a rich, creamy taste sensation. Peanut Butter Dark Seas; Just as amazing as the original, but with a nostalgic twist.

==Introduction==

A limited release from Mission Brewery. It has been a long time since I tried the Missions Dark Seas and the Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Seas. Both are world class beers and definitely some of the best. When I first saw they had released a peanut butter version I nearly flipped. While I haven’t had too many of the Missions brews, they are always amazing! I am not sure if this is the same as their Captain Crunch Peanut butter version they had on tap but it would make sense as the Captain is a captain of a ship. Pirates or not, it would sure fit. Let’s have a look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, peanut butter, nutter butter cookies, roasted peanuts, Reece’s peanut butter cup, vanilla, roasted coffee, mocha, pralines, hazelnut nectar, dark fruit currants, prunes, raisins, rye bread, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, toasted coconuts and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich peanut brittle, roasted peanuts, real peanut butter, nutter butter cookies, Reece’s peanut butter cup, captain crunch peanut butter cereal, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, toasted coconuts, coffee cake, flan, dark fruit currants, prunes, raisins, rye bread, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, caramel, roasted coffee, mocha, pralines, hazelnut nectar, walnuts, macadamia nuts, almond milk, roasted barley, bananas, dark cherry hints, chocolate mousse, fudge and peanut butter cake and brown sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of nutty unsweetened peanut butter flavor, roasted coffee, dark fruit, dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel and roasted barley bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn insane. Very exceptional brew. Yes, it is not barrel aged but the peanut butter flavors and chocolate are ridiculous. Overall, the beer is very complex and it does appear that they are using real peanut butter and not peanut butter flavoring. Either that or peanut flour. I am not sure, but regardless, the semi-sweet peanut butter and chocolate flavors from this one are definitely unique from other peanut butter beers. Not to detract from other peanut butter beers as they are all amazing, but this one definitely stands on its own. Also, the Russian Imperial style and flavors complements the peanut butter and chocolate flavors so well! Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Franco il Nero (Cyan hair) and Donne Annonime (Blonde hair) from Outlaw Django Tre Donne Crudeli as well as Nitro+ Cross over of Ignis from Jingai Makyo and Al-Azif from Demonbane were used in this pairing mainly since I used Franco and Donne in the original and Bourbon Barrel aged version of Dark seas. Like finding the treasure. This beer is a treasure in itself. The addition of the other characters was mainly for the sake of using new art work to pair with the beer. I must say that they pair really well with the flavors and the colors of the ingredients this feels like it has. Especially the complexity. Overall though, they all come from the same company, Nitro+ so I like how this turned out.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/21oMSKa.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/p0iaGxU.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Franco.Il.Nero.full.138803.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/mretZWu.jpg
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/comment/full/Anime-tre-donne-crudeli-под-катом-еще-574309.jpeg

Coconut Victory At Sea by Ballast Point

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Ballast Point, coconut, Coconut Victory At Sea, coffee, nami, one piece, Victory At Sea, Victory at Sea Imperial Porter | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Coconut Victory At Sea by Ballast Point is a 10 % ABV American Porter brewed with Coffee and Coconut.

Label:
Our favorite porter with just a touch of the tropics.

This Coconut Victory at Sea takes our popular Imperial Porter to another place. We added sweet roasted coconut to our robust porter brewed with Caffe Calabria coffee and vanilla, the perfect complement to this beer’s subtle roasty intensity. A favorite at our annual Victory at Sea Day, but it’s worth enjoying anytime you need to be transported.

==Introduction==

It has been years since I had Victory at Sea. It was such an awesome brew when I was looking for it so long ago that it was a rarity. Before the times that it became more readily available, it was one of the best beers for Ballast Point right next to Sea Monster in my opinion. Today, you can find these more readily available and recently, they have been experimenting with ingredients. I know there is a peppermint version of this one which I should bring forth in a future review but I could definitely not pass up on this one especially since it was a coconut beer. With that being said, let’s see if this one out does it’s original. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, coconut milk, toasted coconut, macaroons, roasted coffee, steamed milk, coffee cake, vanilla, mocha, caramel, maple syrup, cotton candy, Cocada Mexican Coconut candies, flan hints, earthy hop notes, roasted barley, Dark fruit currants, prunes, raisins, marshmallows and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Rich toasted coconut, macaroons, roasted coffee, steamed milk, coffee cake, vanilla, mocha, caramel, maple syrup, Dark fruit currants, prunes, raisins, marshmallows, rocky road ice cream, smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, coconut milk, almond milk, Danish cream, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, marzipan, rye bread, anise, molasses, lactose, Cocada Mexican Coconut candies, flan hints, earthy hop notes, roasted barley, macadamia nuts and cotton candy hints.

Aftertaste:
Finish with roasted coffee bitterness, earthy hops, coffee cake, dark chocolate, toasted coconut, hazelnut and mocha hints. Slight hints of alcohol at the end but not detracting from the overall flavors of the beer. Deep dark body, creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Definitely an exceptional brew! I love how is smells and taste. There is so much awesome coconut and chocolate and coffee cake that it is crazy. I think I liked this one more than the original but then again I really like coconut beer. While it is not in par with some of the best coconut beers I have ever had, it definitely surpasses even the most perfect ones that usually stop at the 5/5 rating for me. Even with no barrel aging, taking the base beer and amping it up to the next level really did for me. I highly recommend this one especially if you are a coconut beer lover!

Anime Corner:
Nami from One Piece was the right choice for this pairing as she is literally a pirate. I wanted to go with the theme and something tropical. Since Coconut is in the mix with a beer about pirates, why not make it tropical. Speaking of tropical, Nami does have some of the colors on her of nice toasted coconut and coffee cake and to some extent, the colors of the label. I really enjoyed bringing her into this pairing.

Sources:
http://wallpaperflix.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/nami-wallpaper-1.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pL6WXuH61WY/VxX_0R_dL2I/AAAAAAABy2U/aPk24HEQw0g/s0/018.jpg?imgmax=2000
http://kizaru89.deviantart.com/art/One-Piece-Burning-Blood-Nami-609367201
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/kCrNQc4w9qaoqzjM7ySELbgXXW6DIw3l522KVifM07op9VLLqZwhGi3tO3KdToHk.jpeg?w=1600&v=wSURMzV9B94QzBdy_P5zSk1uPOHDuxsd8fkK8zymiFg%3D

Voodoo Doughnut Grape Guerrilla by Rogue brewing

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Fruit Beer, Grape Guerrilla, grapes, Overwatch, rogue brewing, Voodoo Doughnut, widow maker | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

Voodoo Doughnut Grape Guerrilla by Rogue brewing is a 7.2% ABV Fruit beer brewed with grapes

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

16° Plato
16 IBU
78AA
10°L
Alc. 7.2% By Vol.

Description
A Collision of Crazies.

Food Pairing: Doughnuts, Desert

This ale was inspired by the Voodoo Doughnut Grape Ape doughnut, a creation that features vanilla frosting, grape dust and purple sprinkles.

==Introduction==

Another pink bottle release by Rogue brewing. Now I know many beer snobs and elitists have given this series a bad rap ever since the release of the original maple bacon doughnut beer. Even the consecutive releases have been criticized harshly. I do agree, I find them to be in the range of good to very good and while I don’t condone the criticism, I think some of these can be very good. I just happen to have a pretty open palate for these kinds of beers regardless if they use “natural flavorings” or not. The point is, there are some very delicious ones like the raspberry and also the banana peanut butter one. Those I loved a lot. The lemon one was nice too and the mango was okay. So with that in mind, let’s be open minded about this one and see how it is, criticism aside. Cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of grape preserves, jolly ranchers, biscuit bread, butterscotch, caramel, vanilla hints, dark fruit berries, Danish cream and mild hop notes.

Flavors:
Rich grape jolly ranchers, grape kool aid, grape soda, grape syrup, biscuit bread, caramel notes, vanilla, herbal, floral and earthy hops, licorice, cane sugar, almond milk, dark fruit prunes, mild Danish cream and hints of boysenberry cobbler.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lot of jolly rancher grape candies, biscuit bread and caramel. No alcohol in the taste. Amber honey colored clear body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
A pretty good brew but definitely on the artificial side of things. While I do not think it’s bad, their intention of getting as close to grape flavors as possible was a definite success. Although not so naturally. While I did try to find its complexity, I ended up short as the overall flavor is definitely grapes. This is worth a try at least especially if you are nostalgic of grape soda like the one they made in Mexico for me. Definitely nice!

Anime Corner:
Widow Maker from Overwatch was chosen for this review as I wanted to pair the colors of the grape ape with her purple colors. She is supposed to be a tough character in the game and by her name, it does seem like she can be deadly. This beer is not deadly and is actually sweet, like her appearance but the toughness is definitely part of the Gorilla.

Sources:
http://pic.chinaz.com/2016/0614/1465870307917.png
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Overwatch-Blizzard-фэндомы-Widowmaker-3380513.jpeg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/T86la2TKGpUFGQRoFQ0o6iNCJGCg6fvICSMNn6yvldejFNaUulwB1lyzznMUkTPX.jpeg?w=1600&v=ggy-1zIoSNHGb0-HvlDCxquvHuTZBwMQW699UqwzHVc%3D

Barrel-Aged Ten Fidy by Oskar Blues

December 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Imperial Stout, Ayeka Masaki Jurai, Ayeka Misaki Jurai, Barrel-Aged Ten Fidy, Oskar Blues, Russian Imperial Stout, Ten Fidy, Tenchi, Tenchi Muyo | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Barrel-Aged Ten Fidy by Oskar Blues is a 12. 9% ABV World Class Russian Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Stone Pipe Can
Half-Baked Fully Toasted
This Dog’ll Hunt
==Introduction==

Originally released in October 2015 to the brewery exclusively. This year, Oskar Blues was able to release this to the public although in limited quantities. Seeing as how big this beer was when it was first released, trying to get it on the public release may have been just a hard if it wasn’t for the online retail sites like craftshack.com that sells the beers. The unfortunate part is that they only limit one beer per 48 hours and by the time you want to buy another, they are all gone. I made so sacrifices but thankfully, I was able to bring this one to the site. Since the release of the original TenFidy, I have longed to try this one. Let’s go! Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate drink, Mocha, Java, Espresso, roasted coffee, Irish Cream, Khalua liquer hints, tobacco notes, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, Dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, black berries, prunes, cherry cordials, marshmallows, toasted coconut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, oak, bourbon, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Rich rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, toasted coconut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, oak, bourbon, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, walnuts, double chocolate cherry cake, Jericalla Mexican custard, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate drink, Mocha, Java, Espresso, roasted coffee, Irish Cream, Khalua liquer hints, molasses, clove spice, bananas, plantains, chocolate graham cracker smores, chocolate mint ice cream hints, chocolate oatmeal cookies, roasted barley, Dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, black berries, prunes, cherry cordials, pancho pantera chocolate milk shake, port wine hints, almond joys and tobacco notes.

Aftertaste:
Rich chocolate, marshmallows, toasted coconut, almond joy, oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits, smores, bourbon, pecan pie and tobacco notes. Slight alcohol hints in the aftertaste but not detracting from the overall flavors. Pitch black delicious full body, smooth, creamy, silky, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Ridiculously awesome! Top tier supreme, Oskar Blues best beer next to the Death by Coconut. I still have not tried their Rum Coconut one but this has been a long time coming. A single can is definitely a night capper as trying to finish this in one sitting might be difficult for some people. It is definitely best shared for sure but I definitely have to agree that this one is all it is cracked out to be. Supreme chocolate complex goodness and it is one that should be highly sought after.

Anime Corner:
Ayeka Misaki Jurai from the Tenchi Muyo! Series was used in the original review I did for Ten Fidy. The reason I wanted to bring her back is part of the tribute. I tried to bring some some pictures that may be different to pair with. The only fitting one that I can think of is Ayeka in the new dress that does complement the beer colors as well.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/Bm6KWhc.png
https://cdnb1.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/001/481/813/large/katarzyna-marlewska-aeka-final-small.jpg?1447183990
http://webspace.webring.com/people/bd/daniel_rivera_resto/ayeka012.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/MfZXI2i.jpg

Collaboration No. 6 Barrel-Aged Blend Collaboration by Boulevard Brewing and Firestone Walker

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Barrel Aged, Belgian Quad, Bleach, boulevard brewing, Bourbon Barrel Quad, Collaboration No. 6, cuvee, Firestone Walker, Imperial Stout “X” Tart Cherry, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, Naruto, Oatmeal Stout, Rye American Strong Ale, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Stickee Monkee, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Velvet Merkin, Xenosaga, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Collaboration No. 6 Barrel-Aged Blend Collaboration by Boulevard Brewing and Firestone Walker is a 12.5% ABV American Strong Ale Cuvee of Barrel Aged Stouts and Belgian Quads.

Label:
Imperial Stout “X” Tart Cherry
Bourbon Barrel Quad
Stickee Monkee
and Velvet Merkin

For this sixth edition of our Collaboration Series, we invited Matt Brynildson, brew-master of our sister brewery Firestone Walker, to join Boulevard brewmaster Steven Pauwels in our barrel-aging cave. Armed only with their palates, some graduated cylinders, and a bunch of tulip glasses, they arrived at the perfect balance of two barrel aged beers from each brewery. The blend celebrates the individual characteristics of each of the four while creating something entirely new and unique.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
The Collaboration series is our way to bring shared beer ideas to life with some of our favorite brewery friends from around the world. This year, we bring you a specially blended, barrel-aged beer with the help of our sister brewery in California, Firestone Walker. With Collaboration No. 6, Brewmasters Steven Pauwels and Matt Brynildson have created a big, bold flavor combination by blending two Boulevard beers and two Firestone Walker Beers in the following percentages:

Boulevard Bourbon Barrel Quad – 45%
Based loosely on the Smokestack Series’ The Sixth Glass, this abbey-style quadrupel is separated into a number of oak bourbon barrels where it ages for varying lengths of time, some for up to three years. Cherries are added to make up for the “angel’s share” of beer lost during barrel aging. Selected barrels are then blended for optimum flavor. The resulting beer retains only very subtle cherry characteristics, with toffee and vanilla notes coming to the fore.
ABV – 11.8, IBU – 19

Firestone Walker Stickee Monkee – 35%
Brewed with Belgian candi sugar and aged in a selection of ﬁne bourbon barrels, Stickee Monkee trailblazes its own category as a “Central Coast Quad.” The name Stickee Monkee is a nod to the Central Coast’s native Sticky Monkey ﬂower, as well as a shout¬‐out to the Belgian monks who pioneered the Quad style. The Belgian candi sugar imparts a signature molasses sweetness to the beer. Meanwhile, maturation in bourbon casks brings ample barrel expression with notes of toasted oak, coconut, leather and cigar tobacco.
ABV – 13, IBU – 45

Imperial Stout X – Tart Cherry (Whiskey Barrel-aged) – 10%
Our special treat for lovers of big, complex stouts, the Imperial Stout “X” series offers a year-long roster of limited releases, each with a significant variation. This riff spotlights the addition of tart cherries to fermentation as well as a lactic souring on the brewhouse. The result is a perfect marriage of robust, smoky maltiness and bracing tartness. Unlike the release version of Imperial Stout X – Tart Cherry, this portion was briefly aged in previously used whiskey barrels.
ABV – 11, IBU – 64

Firestone Walker Velvet Merkin – 10% Velvet Merkin is the beer that almost wasn’t…Indeed, this vintage oatmeal stout’s comical (or is it scandalous?) name went oﬀ the grid for several years, but now it’s back due to popular demand. Velvet Merkin is aged for a full year in retired spirits barrels from Heaven Hill, Woodford Reserve and others, yet manages to oﬀer mind-¬boggling balance and restraint. You will wig out when you taste Velvet Merkin’s rich milk chocolate, bourbon and espresso ﬂavors, preceded by aromas of vanilla, coconut, toasted oak and mocha. ABV – 8.5, IBU – 33

==Introduction==

Just when I thought I’d never see something like this, I was really amazed. At first I saw it as a Boulevard and Firestone Walker collab but when I realized that it was a Cuvee of some of both breweries best beers, I realized that this was a must get. I have reviewed each of these beers in the past, except for the Tart Cherry Stout X but the other ones were definitely at that World Class tier beers. So being that Firestone Walker was involved, I knew this would of came up to possibly be one of the best and unique Cuvees. Now, we can only hope that this is the case, let’s have a sip, cheers!

Aromas:
Grilled Bananas, Banana Sunday, clove spice, fruit cake, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, Rich Dark Cherries, Dark fruit, prunes, plums, figs, raspberries, currants, Dark chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Ferrero Rocher Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, tobacco hints, molasses, stone fruits, Oatmeal Cookies, Oreo Cookies and Cream, graham cracker, Marshmallow smores and mocha.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Cherries, Dark fruit, prunes, plums, figs, raspberries, currants, bourbon, whiskey, brandy, oak, Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, maple syrup, waffle cones, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Grilled Bananas, Banana Sunday, clove spice, fruit cake, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, rye bread with mixed berry preserves, Oatmeal Cookies, Oreo Cookies and Cream, graham cracker, Marshmallow smores, mocha, Flan, Sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, Dark chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Ferrero Rocher Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate cake, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, Cherry Chocolate cake, walnut pie, toasted coconut, Stone fruit peaches, leather and tobacco hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dark cherries, vanilla, dulce de leche, oatmeal cookies, dark fruits, stone fruits, dark chocolate, Belgian candi sugar, marshmallows, tobacco hints and rye. No alcohol in the taste. Dark Crimson Amber full body, smooth, creamy, velvety, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The Quad aspect takes over more than the stout blend but even that being the case, it does not change this from being a definite bucket lister in my mind. Having Firestone Walker who are experts at barrel aging and cuvee blending, this is no surprise that this came out the way it did. The complexity of the 2 Belgian Quads and the 2 Stouts collide into a super decadent dessert that really has taken things to another level. I highly recommend this one for those that are fans of these breweries, beers and styles! This is one for the masses!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Kos-mos from Xenosaga, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach and Temari Sabakuno from Naruto were chosen as I wanted to represent the 4 awesome beers blended in this special cuvee to 4 awesome characters. What a better way to pair than to pair with the most epic forms for my favorite 4 girls from anime. In this instance I used Ryuko as the Tart Cherry X Stout as the colors of cherry pair, KOS-MOS is the BBQuad since quads are holy ambrosia of gods and she is angelic, Yoruichi is the Velvet Merkin as she is deep, magical and mysterious and finally, Temari is the Stickee Monkee as she represents the colors of the actual flower that grows along the central coast.

Firestone XX Twentieth Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged anniversary ale, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Beer Hybrid, Bravo, cuvee, Evangelion, Firestone Walker, Firestone XX, Firestone XX Twentieth Anniversary Ale, FLCL, FW, Gainax, Haruko Haruhara, HellDorado, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Parabola, PSG, Rei Ayanami, Stickee Monkee, Stocking, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagan, Trigger Studios, Velvet Merkin, world class beers, Yoko Ritona | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Firestone XX Twentieth Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker is a 13.80% ABV World Class Strong Multi-liquor Barrel Aged Style Hybrid Blend Ale.

Description: (Please Click On The Strategy Guide/Letter From Firestone Walker and the Box)

==Introduction==

The time has finally come for another review of some of the best World Class beers out there. Each year, I wait in anticipation for these releases. Many know Firestone Walker for being one of the best breweries when it comes to their barrel program and have maintained that status for many years. Their ability to brew barrel aged beers and create delicious Cuvees has been outstanding from release to release. They celebrate 20 years in business bringing many awesome beers like Double Barrel Ale, Double Jack, Parabola and Velvet Merlin just to name a few. Today I bring their anniversary beer to the site and it is with damn pleasure to see what this 20th year brings. Cheers to many more years!

Aromas:
Rocky road ice cream, almonds, walnuts, hazelnut nectar, rich marshmallows, chocolate smores, oatmeal cookies, oreo cookies and cream, flan, chocolate chip cookies, whiskey, brandy hints, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, prunes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, bananas, clove spice, honey comb, waffle cone, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, rich oak, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, Irish Cream coffee, Danish Cream cookies, capirotada raisin bread pudding and Chocolate Banana Sundae.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, prunes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate milk shake, bananas, clove spice, honey comb, waffle cone, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, rich oak, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, almonds, walnuts, hazelnut nectar, rich marshmallows, chocolate smores, oatmeal cookies, oreo cookies and cream, flan, chocolate chip cookies, whiskey, brandy hints, molasses, anise, leather, tobacco, sweetened condensed milk, port wine, Irish Cream coffee, Danish Cream cookies, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Chocolate Banana Sundae, cinnamon, coriander hints, stone fruit peaches, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and earthy hop notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with a grand variety of complex flavors ranging from dark chocolate, dark fruits, oak, marshmallow smores, rocky road ice cream, flan, fruit cake, bourbon, banana split, maple syrup, earthy hop notes and wine notes. No alcohol in the taste, crimson pitch black body, silky smooth, creamy, velvety, chewy and slightly syrupy mouthfeel with and easy to moderate drinkability despite the ABV.

Overall:
For being in the business 20 years, they got their stuff down and hands down, this is ridiculously delicious! They have Cuvee experts for years and even getting winemakers to assist with their creations to make something that is nothing but legendary. The best part about this beer and any of their other anniversary beers is that they have sold them to the public in many quantities for many to enjoy. Now it is your turn, seek this one as it is a must experience!

Anime Corner:
Gainax and Trigger Studios Crossover characters were all used to represent all the flavors and all the beers used in this beer but in general all the years of blending awesome beers. Moreover, really for celebration in general. Some of the best characters in Anime are in this pairing.

Sources:
http://cdn30.us1.fansshare.com/image/mahoromatic/ogza-fanservice-1437649123.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ywcJbAA.jpg

Derde Golf by The Bruery Terreux

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, anniversary ale, Belgian Quadrupel, blackberries, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Coffee Beans, Darkstalkers, Derde Golf, Hsien-ko, lei-lei, Lord Raptor, Midnight Bliss, Oak aged, Old Ale, Portola Coffee Lab, Quadrupel Tonnellerie, Sour Quadrupel, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Zabel | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Derde Golf by The Bruery Terreux is a 12.3% ABV Belgian Sour Quadrupel Oak aged with Blackberries and Bourbon Barrel aged Old Ale with Portola Coffee Lab’s coffee beans.

Label:
It’s time for the third wave – a beer that awakens the senses from first sniff to first sip. This sour, blended ale folds our sour, oak-aged Belgian style quadrupel with blackberries into our malt-forward, bourbon barrel-aged old ale, and finishes with a Flemish good morning kiss, for an awakening, robust and sweet & sour twist. It’s complimented and balanced by the gentle, roasty character imparted from freshly roasted coffee from our friend’s at Portola Coffee Lab – a blend that was specifically selected for this complex, sour coffee ale, and a concept that was nearly a year in the making.

==Introduction==

Released to Hoarders and Reserve society members. I did not think much about getting this one at first. Then I saw what it was made with. Essentially, they took their awesome Quadrupel Tonnellerie and Anniversary ale, combined it and added coffee. Ridiculousness! But I say that in an awesome epic way. Both base beers are already exceptional. Therefore, taking this to the next level is definitely what the Bruery does best. Now the question is, should one get this one? Well, that is where we come in to advise you, the reader, whether we think you should give this one a shot. Let’s do this, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit currants, dark cherries, plums, raisins, figs, raspberries, wine grapes, blackberries, concorde grapes, fruit cake, oak, bourbon, dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice, anise, tobacco notes, molasses, dark candi sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, hazelnut nectar, mocha, Khalua liqueur, java and sweetened condensed milk

Flavors:
Bourbon, oak, wine grapes, pan dulce, blackberry cobbler, fruit cake, concorde grapes, blueberry muffins, dark fruit currants, dark cherries, plums, raisins, figs, dark candi sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, lemon peel, red wine, toasted coconut, marshmallows smores, bananas, clove spice, anise, tobacco notes, molasses, leather, raspberry Chambord liquer, blackberry and blueberry cheesecake, rock candy, capirotada raisin bread pudding, figgy pudding, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, mocha, Khalua liqueur, java, espresso, coffee cake, steamed milk, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, flan, chocolate cherry cordials and Tres Leches/Three Creams cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich dark fruits, of blackberries, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, vanilla, clove space, bananas, dark candi sugar, rock candi, blackberry yogurt, toffee, dark chocolate, oak, and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste, full dark amber body, effervescent, smooth and silky mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
This is damn insane! This is indeed the best Belgian Sour Quad ever! The Blackberries and Coffee just raise it to those OVERKILL levels. Not in a bad way but of the deep and supremely luscious bliss kind of way. Heck even the fact that the base beers are already above exceptional, this just takes it to that bucket lister level. Definitely find a way to get this one. A lot of awesome stuff in this bottle.

Anime Corner:
Hsien-Ko/Lei Lei and Zabel/Lord Raptor (Midnight Bliss) were used in this pairing to go somewhat with the label but mainly the colors of the dark fruits and flavors of the beer. I have not used Hsien-ko in a beer for the Bruery before so I definitely thought this was the perfect opportunity. Zabel was merely there as you can think of the 2 beer fusion in coffee as represented by Hsien-Ko coming to Zabel from behind.

Sources:
http://pbs.twimg.com/media/CsL6t_gXYAQAEGW.jpg
https://jr4rt.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/hsien_ko_small.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/3d435-lei_lei_by_genzoman.jpg
http://blog-imgs-27-origin.fc2.com/m/o/u/moudamepo11/24(s).png

Hammer of The Beast by Clown Shoes

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, American Strong Ale, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bleach, Clown Shoes Brewing, cuvee, English Barleywine, Hammer of The Beast, Hammer of The Holy, Holy water, Jamaican Rum, Matsumoto, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, Rum barrel aged, Russian Imperial Stout, Tia Harribel, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Hammer of The Beast by Clown Shoes is an 11.75% ABV American Strong Ale Cuvee consisting of a Smoked Imperial Stout brewed with Holy water, a Russian Imperial Stout and an English Style Barley Wine all aged in 40 year old Jamaican Rum Barrels. An even more ultimate, Cuvee of dreams!

Label:
How do you amplify a beast that is half unicorn and half dragon and who has already escalated from angry, to very angry, to extremely angry? Give it a hammer! The fifth installment in The Beast series blends equal part Undead Party Crasher, Billionaire, and Blaecorn Unidragon, all aged in rum barrels. We’ll respect you if you run, but respect you even more if you can tackle The Hammer Of The Beast

==Introduction==

Every year, the Blaecorn Unidragon gets armored up more and more as the variety of barrel aging spirits are added. Similar to the way one chooses variants of equipment in video games, it seems each year they just get better and better. This year they combined 3 beers and aged them in rum barrels in the style of the Hammer of the Holy. Essentially, I am not sure how much more powerful they can make the Unidragon but damn, I will sure try and cover each awesome installment in the series as I go along. Let’s take on this beast! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, crème brulee, honey, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, figgy pudding, tobacco, tres leches cake, Oak, Bananas, plantains, clove spice, rum, pecan pie, smokey oak, marshmallow smores, toasted coconut, almond joy coconut and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Oak, Bananas, plantains, clove spice, dulce de leche caramel, smokey oak, marshmallow smores, toasted coconut, almond joy coconut, rocky road ice cream, crème brulee, tobacco, rums, piña colada, tropical fruit dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychees, honey, butterscotch, rum, vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, figgy pudding, tobacco, tres leches cake, stone fruit mango, peach, leather, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, triple chocolate cherry cake, hazelnut nectar, macadamia, pecan pie, walnut pie, cashew milk, nutter butter peanut butter cookies, cookie dough ice cream, Raspberry jelly doughnuts, mint, anise and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich chocolate, rum, oak, bananas, dark chocolate, rocky road ice cream, molasses, earthy notes, pecan pie, tropical fruit, stone fruit, fig pudding and mixed nuts. Slight alcohol in the taste but this does not take away from the rich complexity. Dark pitch black body, smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Another exceptionally awesome release from Clown Shoes and definitely a bucket lister. Each year unique and ever adding more or varying the aging of spirits and beers but this was very damn amazing. Tropical flavors and chocolate flavors work very well. Complexity is definitely through the roof as goes with many of the beers I enjoy and especially if you been a fan of the series, do yourself a favor and get this one. I highly recommend you find this one. Clown Shoes killing it every time!

Anime Corner:
Tia Harribel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, Yoruichi Shihouin and Matsumoto Rangiku from Bleach have always represented some aspect of the clown shoes beers in my past reviews. Tia is the Undead Party Crasher/Vampire Slayer. Nelliel has always been the original Unidragon and Yoruichi would be added for good measures since the Porcine Unidragon came out. This time she represents the Barleywine. The blend of each beer together and the unleash of the Extremely Angry beast can be best represented when all three together are looking like bad asses powering up to team up against great foes. The other thing though is since Tia also represented the Hammer of Holy, in this instance she unleashes pure fury so all three battle it out in this bottle. It really kicks ass. The strength and complexity has come together very epically that I could not think of any other pairing artwork that would be the best representative of this beer. Also I included Matsumoto Rangiku as an extra to be Rum.

Sources:
http://wallpapersinhq.online/images/big/bleach_battle-890883.jpg

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 9 Ladies Dancing, Belgian Dark Strong Ale, cacao nibs, coffee, Lactose, Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Naruto, Overwatch, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Twelve days of Christmas, Twelve Days of Christmas series, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with cacao nibs, vanilla, coffee and lactose.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

The Ninth Verse of Our Twelve Beers of Christmas series dances with flavors inspired by tiramisu. Happy Holidays!

Here’s a pick me up for the latest verse in our Twelve Days of Christmas series. Inspired by flavors and ingredients found in tiramisu, including ladyfingers, 9 Ladies Dancing mimics the Italian dessert by whipping together flavor combinations and layers of its own. This includes notes of vanilla, chocolate and coffee – clearly the leading ladies in this rich, dessert-like beer.

==Introduction==

The Bruery has recently released their latest Christmas beer to the public and should be hitting many distribution areas publicly where they sell The Bruery beers. An Italian dessert inspired beer huh? I still can’t believe it has been so long and in four more years, the Christmas beer saga comes to a conclusion. Every year they release amazing beers. What I find intriguing though is that they use some of the ingredients that I used in my Sangri Leche beer. These are the Lactose, Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa Nibs. Plus, it’s a Belgian Dark Strong so that makes me think about the flavors. But why wait, let’s see how it is, cheers!

Aromas:
Belgian candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, sugar plums, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark fruit prunes, raisins, dark cherries, coffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, lactose, Bananas, clove spice, tiramisu, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, honey, maple syrup and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Rich Coffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, lactose, Bananas, clove spice, Tiramisu pastry, flan, dark fruit prunes, raisins, dark cherries, Belgian candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, sugar plums, capirotada raisin bread pudding, butterscotch, rye bread, toffee, Dulce de leche caramel, ginger bread man, Danish cream, Irish cream, crème brulee, Kahlua Liqueur, stone fruit peaches, peach cobbler, apricots, peanut butter, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, honey, maple syrup, biscuit bread, tobacco hints and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, dark fruit, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, stone fruit, pecan pie and toffee. No alcohol in the taste, dark crimson amber full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very Exceptional brew! I can honestly say this did remind me of 2 creations I made. The Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell which was a Belgian Golden stout with the same ingredients as this one as well as the partial ingredients used in Sangrileche Belgian Stout. Using Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa nibs does come through when used well and can make many beers even more decadent and complex. Which makes me believe that it may add the necessary complexity or in some cases dominate the flavors of the rest of the beers. In this instances, it balanced out made for one awesome complexity. Definitely get this holiday brew, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Naruto Girls, Mahou Shojo girls and Overwatch girls were all chosen for this pairing to essentially be the 9 ladies dancing. Every year I try to find pairings that match the number of gifts from the Christmas song. It is does get difficult at times but other than going with the theme, there really isn’t anything else specific that matches the pairing unless you can infer some of the colors do match.

Sources:
http://65.media.tumblr.com/734581b30e3a75e6baa874e38f85afec/tumblr_njv7tlkmns1t5cwh1o5_1280.jpg
http://orig11.deviantart.net/4944/f/2016/246/5/c/ladies_of_overwatch_by_minacream-dagbj56.jpg
http://www.theanimegallery.com/gallery/image:185903/

2016 Share This: Molé by The Bruery

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged ancho chilies, cacao nibs, Chipotle Peppers, Cinnamon, Free Wheelchair Mission, Imperial Stout, LEND A HAND, mexican beer, Overwatch, Share This Molé, sharethisbeer, Sombra, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Share This: Molé by The Bruery is an 11.1% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Ancho Chilies, Chipotle peppers, Cinnamon, Vanilla Beans and Cacao Nibs

Label:
LEND A HAND
Share This beer and be part of bringing mobility to our friends in Mexico – the Source and inspiration of select ingredients in this beer. For every bottle we produce, Free Wheelchair Mission receives one dollar. #sharethisbeer

Share This is a series of beer that spotlights unique ingredients and important causes. This rich mole-inspired imperial stout collaboration with Chef Anne Conness supports the work of Free Wheelchair Mission in Mexico.

==Introduction==

Released to the public as the second beer for charity from the “Share This” series. This time they obtained inspiration from Mexican cuisine, the awesome dish of Molé. The last time the Bruery made an awesome Molé beer was when they made the Smoking Wood variant which was a tap only release. It was definitely awesome and one I would love to review one day if it is re-released. This series is definitely awesome as it does donate a dollar for every bottle sold to the cause of the Free Wheelchair Mission. Yes, it is not much money but this is a microbrewery after all. It’s good to see breweries who do more not just for communities but for causes that really help people. Let’s see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, raspberries, capirotada Mexican bread pudding, vanilla, flan, crème brulee, dulce de leche cajeta/caramel, Pan Dulce, chipotle, guajillo, ancho chiles, cinnamon, nutmeg, rich chocolate abuelita, Kahlua liquer notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, piloncillo sugar cone, grilled bananas, anise, coffee and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Super rich chocolate abuelita, Kahlua liquer notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, piloncillo sugar cone, grilled bananas, chipotle, guajillo, ancho chiles, cinnamon, nutmeg, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, raspberries, capirotada Mexican bread pudding, vanilla, flan, crème brulee, dulce de leche cajeta/caramel, Pan Dulce, apple pie, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Danish cream cookies, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, burnt candi sugar, waffle cone, molé spices, champurrado, molasses, anise, 3 leche/ 3 Milks cake, coffee cake, mocha, java, steamed milk and Mazapan.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich notes of chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, coffee, cinnamon, peppery hints, dark fruits, marshmallows, flan, earthy notes and champurrado. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, dark body, creamy, velvety, silky, syrupy, chewy and viscous mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional breaking brew. Easily, a new favorite Molé, or in this case, the best Molé beer I have ever had that was more about Molé, not Mexican chocolate, as that is another story best told in a previous review. For a Molé beer though, this is damn insane and delicious. Definitely a step above some of the other Molé beers I have tried in the past. The chocolate and spices are there but not overly spicy and sweetness is not overwhelming either. Everything just comes together very well and complex. Definitely a highly recommended brew.

Anime Corner:
Sombra from Overwatch was used in this series not necessarily for the label colors but for the use of a Mexican anime/video game character. Sombra, or Shadow is a hacker who uses her skills to manipulate the corrupted systems of power for the greater good. While her colors and ethnicity go well with the flavors of the brew (like dark fruits) and the culture of the cuisine, the “doing something for a good cause” is what I liked about this pairing as this beer is all for a good cause.

Sources:
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Blizzard-фэндомы-Sombra-(Overwatch)-Overwatch-art-3415270.jpeg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/fa99b-sombra.jpg
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Sombra-(Overwatch)-Blizzard-фэндомы-Overwatch-art-3471483.jpeg

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Vanilla Bean Stout by Avery Brewing

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Anna Marie, Avery Brewing, Botanicals & Barrels Series, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Imperial Stout, Marvel, Rogue, Vanilla Bean Stout, vanilla beans, Xmen | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Vanilla Bean Stout by Avery Brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout with vanilla beans aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
A double dose of vanilla derived from both fresh Bourbon barrels and the trio of Tongan, Ugandan, and Mexican whole vanilla beans is complemented by the essences of chocolate, caramel and molasses to round out this luxurious silky stout.

==Introduction==

I have heard great things about this brew. There have been many times that I had the opportunity to grab it but didn’t passing it up for other beers. Now that I saw it once again, I decided to bring it to the site. I have tried many vanilla stouts and barrel aged vanilla stout. Some are more awesome than others but generally, they are all definitely very good. It is not often I have vanilla stouts by themselves as sometimes you will have your vanilla bean and cacao nib beers that are very delicious but plain vanilla is definitely a great feat. Especially when trying to make beers like flan or crème brulee like. Let’s see how far this one will go, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of vanilla, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, fruit cake, brown sugar, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, cinnamon, coffee, mocha, rye bread and molasses.

Flavors:
Rich vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bananas, clove spice, plantains, mint chocolate chip ice cream, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, hazelnut nectar, maple notes, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, coffee, mocha, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal cookies, almond joy chocolate, vanilla and chocolate brownies, fruit cake, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone hints, hazelnut nectar, macadamia nuts and chocolate cherry cordials.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with smooth vanilla, bourbon, toffee, caramel, dark fruit, oak, chocolate, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard and crème brulee hints. No alcohol in the taste, Dark full body, syrupy, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptional vanilla decadent beer. Lots of vanilla, complex and balanced flavors and not too over powering. It can be soft at times and is not too sweet either. Almost like a semi sweet ice cream. Then again most craft beers are like liquid ice cream in general. This one is no exception to the rule. Very enjoyable brew for all BBA brew lovers. I highly recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Rogue/Anna Marie from Marvel’s X-men was chosen for this pairing mainly to go with the colors of the label with the green, white, yellow and red. Her hair colors pairs well with the vanilla plant from the picture shown on the label. I figured this would make a nice pairing by just getting the colors right. Also, Rogue is a character that absorbs people’s strength, memories and powers. Basically, this beer will own you!

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6d/c7/7d/6dc77d95fb3628ff685bb31d90548d15.jpg
http://65.media.tumblr.com/05c284d4df2a9b5a3fc6effc0028820e/tumblr_o75dpwtems1sxptq1o1_500.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/7677d-16.jpg

Imperial Biscotti Break Raspberry Umami by Evil Twin Brewing

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in oak barrels, Coffee Beans, Evil Twin Brewing, Imperial Biscotti Break, Imperial Biscotti Break Raspberry Umami, Imperial Stout, Oak, oak barrels, Pyrrha Nikos, Raspberry, Raspberry Umami, Rwby | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Imperial Biscotti Break Raspberry Umami by Evil Twin Brewing is an 11.5% Imperial Stout aged in Oak Barrels with Coffee Beans and Raspberry

Label:
None!

==Introduction==

Obtained this one on my way to the Bruery when I visited Mr. K’s liquor. It literally is in front of the Bruery and they do have a lot of awesome stuff. When I saw this, I definitely had to pick it up. 2 reasons, one is because their Doughnut Break was one of the most awesome beers I have ever had. Even the “Imperial Biscotti Break Natale – Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top” was one of the best as well. So surely, the raspberry coffee one was definitely one I wanted to bring to the site. Now, with that in mind, let’s have a look shall we? Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, boysen berries, cranberries, dark cherries, Rich Raspberries, Raspberry cordials, port wine, wine grapes, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, fruit cake, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, mocha, roasted coffee, coffee cake, molasses, anise, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Irish cream, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut hints and pomegranates.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberries, port wine, wine grapes, butterscotch, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, mocha, roasted coffee, coffee cake, dragon fruit, passion fruit, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, boysen berries, cranberries, dark cherry cheesecake, pomegranates, sea salt, oak, vanilla, toasted rye bread with raspberry preserves, molasses, anise, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Irish cream, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut hints, marshmallow smores, brown sugar, fruit cake, dulce de leche caramel, fudge and raspberry cake, walnuts, chocolate truffles, raspberry cordials and jelly doughnuts.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich raspberries, oak, dark fruit, vanilla, mocha, anise, caramel, dark chocolate, and wine notes. No alcohol in the tasted, Dark Crimson Full Body, very smooth, creamy, rich and velvety mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Ridiculously delicious. This came to me as a surprise. This beer actually reminded me so much of the beer I made, which was the Raging Passion Lactus Raspear Dragons which was aged in oak with raspberries but other fruits and lactose other than coffee. The flavors were very similar but my brew was fruitier. The fact that I was able to pick up the punch of chocolate raspberries made me realize that the brew I had made was definitely worthy to be commercial like this one. Regardless, this one is definitely worthy of praise and should sought out, I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Pyrrha Nikos from RWBY was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to bring her into the site for the longest time. Her colors represent the raspberries but also the strength and kindness goes well with the ABV and the complex flavors of the beer which are generally sweet.

Sources:
http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/yakuza-mob-roleplay/images/b/bc/1YMRPBio.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20150817231753
https://i.redditmedia.com/AzMrFtjvoe9rT4DCKQFUsn7LBXtZt9XPX0cumhrq0Os.jpg?w=400&s=9529acd0c6185460df4823133cd923d6
http://i.imgur.com/xooKCtJ.jpg
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-02-24-813002.jpeg

Mint Coffee Milk Stout by Stone brewing

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bleach, California, chocolate mint, coffee, Milk Stout, mint chocolate chip, Mint Coffee Milk Stout, Neliel, Nelliel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, peppermint, Stone Brewing, Sweet Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Mint Coffee Milk Stout by Stone brewing is a 5% ABV Milk/ Sweet Stout brewed with Coffee, peppermint and chocolate mint.

Label:
A SEASONAL BLEND OF FRESH MINT & SLOW-ROASTED COFFEE
This beer is a limited -availability riff on our seasonal Stout Coffee Milk Stout. We use two varieties of mint – chocolate mint and peppermint – to get the nuanced, layered result you have before you.

Coffee remains the lead aromatic and flavor component of this smooth, mellow beer. Add in the body and roundness from a deft touch of milk sugar, back it up with overtones of mint and chocolate and the only thing that could improve upon it is you. And friends. Or a comfy with that couch. What are we suggesting? That’s for you to decide, not us. We’re just providing the tasty beer.

==Introduction==

Exclusive to California, unless you buy it online, this was being a variant of the Stone Coffee Milk stout which I had tried in the past. The last time I have tried a Mint Chocolate Stout from Stone was when they had collaborated with Iron Fist and Ken Schmidt. Since that time, I really wanted them to release it again as it was definitely one of their best beers. Today, we have a released that is not as strong as the one they did in the past but I am hoping for it to be awesome still. Let’s have a look, cheers.

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coffee, dark fruits, pepper mint, Mint chocolate chip ice cream, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, caramel, Irish Mint Coffee cream, coffee cake, pecan hint, brown sugar, smokey notes, marshmallows and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Pepper Mint, Mint chocolate chip ice cream, oreo cookies and cream, roasted coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruit hints, caramel, hints of mocha, smokey notes, marshmallows, chocolate smores, vanilla, earthy hops, graham crackers, pillow mints, brown sugar, molasses, anise, tobacco notes, fudge cake, sweetened condensed milk hints, Irish Mint Coffee cream, coffee cake, hazelnut and pecan hints.

Aftertaste:
Rich chocolate, dark fruits, mocha, roasted coffee, mint chocolate ice cream, earthy notes, anise, vanilla, caramel, Irish cream and marshmallows. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
This one ended up being very delicious. For being 5% ABV, it still had enough flavors that really stood. While the original stronger collaboration version was way better, this one still holds strong on its own. The mint is not overpowering and it balances out very well with the chocolate and coffee flavors. I recommend this one if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck from Bleach was chosen in this pairing as she goes well with the colors of mint and her overall sweet personality. Her colors pair well with the label and the sweet flavors are definitely complimentary of her caring attitude. Sometimes I like to pair with similar colors but also beers that are very flavorful.

Sources:
https://wallpapers.wallhaven.cc/wallpapers/full/wallhaven-411499.jpg
http://orig04.deviantart.net/6b29/f/2015/001/c/b/neliel_tu_oderschvank_by_lilyzou-d8b8w29.jpg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/k1M0nUbmgakIdyIqaS0EUcCBtQImekLOsnmz0K8QqoISWi8oQY24xIn9F2UqEN0t.jpeg?w=1600&v=EYIMoa_BOv1wHvcVgBmJsJZjQqCdYXL8zflV1d5LJhU%3D

2016 Grey Monday by The Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Belgian Chocolates, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, chocolate mousse, Chocolate Nirvana, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark chocolate, french vanilla ice cream, Grey Monday, Hazelnut Nectar, Imperial Stout, Kutchiki Rukia, Maple Syrup, molecular gastronomy, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut, roasted hazelnuts, Rukia, The Bruery, world beers | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Grey Monday by The Bruery is an 19.8% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Hazelnuts.

I had done a reviewed this one in the past so this year, I am leaving it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Each year it is more awesome and the ABV seems to climb higher and higher. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/2015/06/25/2015-grey-monday-by-the-bruery/

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bakuretsu Tenshi, Black Tuesday, Burst Angel, Imperial Stout, JO, Session beer, So Happens It's Tuesday, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery is a 14.7% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

I had done a review earlier this year and The Bruery released another on October 2016 so to check out the review I did click the link below. While this version is slightly stronger, they both are awesome!

https://animebeers.com/2016/02/27/2016-so-happens-its-tuesday-by-the-bruery/

2016 Black Tuesday by the Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2016 Black Tuesday, best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 20.3% ABV World Class Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

I have reviewed this one many times so this year, I am leaving it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Each year it is more awesome and the ABV seems to climb higher and higher. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/2015/12/05/2015-black-tuesday-by-the-bruery/

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Imperial Stout, American Strong Ale, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, cherries, Cordial BBLS, cuvee, Dark Cherries, Dark Sakura, inner Sakura, Naruto, sakura Haruno, So Happens It's Tuesday, tart cherries, Tart of Darkness, The Brue, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
Amazingly ridiculous. A bucket lister if they ever put it in bottles. This beer is ridiculous. The tartness from the cherries balances out the sweetness from the chocolate and vanilla that it makes it decadent. I definitely think this should actually be their next bottling as it is too damn perfect. I don’t know if they will have this one at the Bruery by the time the review comes out but I am hoping that if you ever see this one, do not skip out on it. It was definitely worth the pick up to bring it to the site and I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto as I wanted to pair the colors of dark chocolate cherry and she seemed to fit the bill just nicely. Like biting into a plumpy Choco cherry cordial, this beer is damn irresistable. The tart sour aspects come from her attitude as well as her inner rage known as Inner Sakura. This beer is no joke and the strength wielded by its ABV can be deadly and bliss at the same time.

Sources:
http://www.chuing.net/zboard/revol_getimg.php?id=mfa&no=48179&num=0&fc=d920683bfdb39f570ee673b6580a4334
https://skategb.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/595882.jpg
http://photos.hdlandscapewallpaper.com/anime/naruto/naruto2670.jpg

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, almond joy, best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, coconut, Dulce de leche, English Barley Wine, English Barleywine, Knives Chau, macaroons, MASH, Mash & Coconut, Ramona Flowers, rocky road ice cream, Scott Pilgrim, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, The Bruery, Toasted Coconut, World class, World Class Barleywine, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

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

Label:
Bear The Palm

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A bucket lister that finally was released in bottles. With the separation of Sour and regular brews, a much more controlled environment was what made this possible for the Bruery. Thankfully it was finally released and this time, Preservation Society would see this one coming. So if you signed up for Quarter 4 2016, you will get this one along with Black Tuesday and another brew. This is a must get and if you can get several, do cellar them. This is insane, I highly recommend this one!

Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers and Knives Chau from Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World were used in this pairing as the original since I wanted to compare them to the name MASH & COCONUT. Ramona always has a hammer ready to MASH up her opponents and Knives is a smooth ninja representing the coconut flavors and the overall smoothness of the beer. This is way too easy to drink. They are both hot but super damn deadly. Some of the colors of the label also pair with the artwork. Scott is there for the other complex flavors of the beer as well as the other characters from the series.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1250828
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
http://data.whicdn.com/images/89284118/large.png

Wooden Rooster by Tallgrass Brewing

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Akuma, Belgian Tripel, Final Fantasy Tactics, Rye Whiskey, Rye Whiskey Barrels, Street Fighter, Tallgrass Brewing, Ultima, Velvet Rooster, Wooden Rooster | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
This is damn exceptional. The best I have had from Tall Grass brewing by far. This amazing brew has great levels of amazing complexity and definitely stands to other Belgian Barrel aged brews I have had before. It also reminds me of the Bruery’s White Oak aged in bourbon or the Barrel aged Cali Belgique. Definitely something that is not often brewed but this one is a must get for sure. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Ultima from Final Fantasy Tactics and a Rooster cosplaying as Akuma from Capcom’s series, Street Fighter, were chosen to represent the wooden rooster. Not just for the colors which pair well with the label of the feathers and the fact that one is a rooster and one is a fallen angel. Regardless, the bad assery and that fact that this brew is ridiculously awesome is really what does it.

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

Zombie Monkie by Tallgrass Brewing

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Gorillaz, Noodle, Panty, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Stocking, Tallgrass Brewing, Zombie Monkie | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A perfect porter! This is damn amazing. They don’t use any additive ingredients like coffee, chocolate or vanilla but the flavor complexity is definitely pronounced. The best part also is that at 6.2% ABV, making this one is very drinkable. It almost feels more like a stout but regardless, this is very delicious. I would highly recommend this one and definitely get several.

Anime Corner:
Panty, Stocking and Noodle as well as the Gorillaz and PSG crew were all chosen to go with the theme of the Zombie Monkey as shown in the label. A beer so dark and evil it should definitely be zombie based. Panty and Stoking are not necessarily monkies but their Gorillaz parody sure made them look like them. Also, since they have done an episode where they all turned into zombies, I feel fits the theme as well.

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

Raspberry Jam by Tallgrass brewing

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Berliner Weisse, FLCL, Fooly Cooly, Haruko Haruhara, Raspberries, Raspberry Jam, Tallgrass Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.35/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
Very refreshing fruity and tart brew. Complex slightly with varying similar flavors. Definitely give it credit for the raspberry. Berliners, for me, there are far and few between that are amazing. This one definitely has an amazing balance giving fruity sweetness that is then balanced by the tart and sour aspects of the Berliner itself. I think this one is worth a try especially if you love Berliner weisse brews.

Anime Corner:
Haruko Haruhara from Fooly Cooly/FLCL was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the pink of raspberries, Jam like raspberry jam and music jam and the guitar. Which is all the things that Haruko has. I added the additional original character for the colors of the ingredients and the guitar mainly.

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

Quintuple IPA (5th Anniversary) by Karbach Brewing

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 5th Anniversary, American Strong Ale, Boa Hancock, Karbach Brewing, Megaman, nami, Nico Robin, one piece, QIPA, Quintuple, Quintuple IPA, Roll, Tashigi, Transformers, Vivi Nefertari | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
Outstanding and exceptional IPA. Although, this one is more along the lines of a Barleywine but still carries itself in a unique way. Not quite the Barleywine or IPA but definitely a mixed category. The Quintuple IPA sounds about right and so does the American Strong Ale name as well. Regardless, this is one that reminded me of some of the very delicious American strongs I like that are damn hoppy. This one is definitely a must find and even if it ages, I think it will age well, for an IPA!

Anime Corner:
5 Roll variants across Capcom’s Megaman Franchise, 5 fan transformers, Vivi Nefertari, Nico Robin, Boa Hancock, Tashigi and Nami from One Piece we all used to represent 5 for the 5th anniversary of Karbach. I tried to go with as much to represent the colors as well and even paired celebration represented by Nami with the Beer Stein.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/bwKo2O4.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CvreJgCVUAAvXVV.jpg
http://www.figgy.jp/img/figure/2016/201610240003ed2fd517754cc39fb5cff9e48c928e47/9.jpg
https://www.atpress.ne.jp/releases/51066/img_51066_9.jpg

PKL FKR by New Braunfels Brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bacteria, Berliner Weisse, lemon, lime, New Braunfels Brewing, Nitori Kawashiro, Pickle Fucker, Pickle Juice, PKL FKR, sour beer, Touhou Project, Wild yeast | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

PKL FKR by New Braunfels Brewing is a 3.2% ABV Berliner Weisse refermented with Wild Yeast and Bacteria and blended with Pickle Juice.

Commercial Description:

Our lemon-lime Berliner Weisse gets a little star treatment.

Refermented 6 weeks to dry the beer and add a little funky notes to our normally crisply sour wheat beer.

After secondary fermentation, PKL FKR is blended with fresh pickle juice.

It’s a pucker party and you’re invited!

==Introduction==

Pickle Fucker (Awesome Name) was sent to me thanks to my good friend and fellow beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. This is a definitely unique beer. I have not really seen a beer made with pickles anywhere. My friend William told me about a brew he tried that was made with pickles in a tap room one time but I can kind of see why pickle juice would work with something like this. The closest thing I can think of with special sour beers is the Srichelada from Angel City. That beer was definitely made in the form of a Michelada. Essentially a sour and salty type of brew that is typically made with tomato and clam juice. So, would this be more of a Gose instead of a Berliner Weisse? Well, let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:

Lemons, Pickles, biscuit bread, sea salt, pilsner grain, grape hints, stone fruit hints, pepper corn, earthy notes, cane sugar and tejuino maize drink.

Flavors:

Lots of pickle and cucumber juice, lemon, limes, salt, tejuino maize, biscuit bread, wheat bread, pilsner grain, grape hints, cherry hints, peppercorn, stone fruit apricot hints, mango hints, citrus, herbal and earthy notes, funky vegetable notes and cane sugar hints.

Aftertaste:

Finishing dry with notes of pickles, lemon, salt and fruity hints. No alcohol in the taste, golden pale light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:

Damn session-ably delicious brew! I’ll be honest, this is pretty damn unique. I like my salty and lemon beers every not and again or even pickled foods like pickles, eggs or pigs feet. So let’s put it this way, if you do not like pickles or pickled anything, you probably will not like this. I definitely enjoyed this and would like to have it again. The perfect grading is mainly due to my own personal preference in the fact that I love umami like flavors, its uniqueness and the fact that this is exactly what they were going for, a pickle flavored beer.

Anime Corner:

Nitori Kawashiro from Touhou Project was chosen in this pairing as she represents Kappas. Kappas are these turtle like humanoids from Japanese folklore and love pickles/cucumbers. So her colors as well as theme she brings go with this beer as it is all about pickles and cucumbers.

Sources:

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f4/c8/01/f4c801eb149a38846016c47b5ff0556f.jpg

http://safebooru.org//images/1489/6b559b1cd349259131b940266a38d88ea8f26a20.jpg

http://static.zerochan.net/Kawashiro.Nitori.full.1300993.jpg

Songbird Saison by Tallgrass brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Farmhouse Ale, Rwby, Saison, Songbird Saison, Tallgrass Brewing, Weisse Schnee | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A very delicious saison. It is pretty solid showcasing many of the great flavors that come from saisons but bringing in its twist of things. Not too funky and fruitier and refreshing than other saisons. I think this one would be very appealing to average drinker. Worthy of recommendation.

Anime Corner:
Weiss Schnee from RWBY was chosen in this beer because she fits well with the colors of the label and the theme of the beer. Songbird and the music notes works a Weiss is also a singer. Her white and blue colors pair well with the label as well.

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

Top Rope IPA by Tallgrass Brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged india pale ale, IPA, Let Me Tell You Something Brother, Rainbow Mika, Street Fighter, Tallgrass Brewing, Top Rope IPA, World Wresting Entertainment, World Wresting Federation, WWE, WWF | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A very delicious brew showcasing the more citrusy and tangerine candy like flavors of IPAs. A balance of hop bite and mild malty sweetness blends well making this one very enjoyable and drinkable. I think this one would make for a great intro to craft beer especially to the wrestling fans since it is a tribute beer after all. Definitely worth a try.

Anime Corner:
Rainbow Mika from Street Fighter was chosen to pair with the brew as she a wrestling character like Zangief and was the closest known character I could think of when it comes to a female anime/video game wrestler. The theme of the beer is wrestling so despite the colors of the label, she fits the theme of the beer overall.

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

Big Ricc by Tallgrass brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Big Ricc, Big Rigs, Blake Belladona, Chocolate, coffee, Russian Imperial Stout, Rwby, Tallgrass Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

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

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

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8-Bit Pale Ale by Tallgrass Brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 8-Bit Pale Ale, American Pale Ale, APA, Capcom, Chun-li, Nintendo, Pale Ale, Samus Aran, Street Fighter, Tallgrass Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buffalo Sweat by Tallgrass Brewing

November 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Buffalo Bell, Buffalo Sweat, Japanese Baseball, Oatmeal Cream Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Orix Buffaloes, Tallgrass Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

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

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

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A very delicious stout. I think I definitely enjoyed this way more this time around than when I first had it in Iowa. Whether it was because I was just drinking just to drink or because the analysis makes it much better, I am not sure. Either way, this is one that I definitely recommend to lovers of delicious stouts.

Anime Corner:
Buffalo Bell from Japanese Baseball team, Orix Buffaloes, was chosen by the name of the beer, Buffalo’s Sweat. I don’t want it to mean literal sweat but essentially, it goes with the name as when it gets hot playing Baseball, as you can see. Mainly for the name but the ingredients I was going for you could consider the whole cream and milk aspect as well as dark fruit cherries for the color of pink.

Sources:
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/156/713/e8e.jpg
http://danbooru.donmai.us/data/2a2781bd0a64752fc320f683ad33ed14.png
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/nesinero/imgs/7/9/793fd907.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YCi0y.jpg

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

November 9, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bananas, Belgian Stout, cacao nibs, Chochronicles of Flantasia in the Bananatrix, Home brewing, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Sweet/Milk Stout, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

Homebrewing Project #26 Chochronicles of Flantasia in the Bananatrix by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 4.46% ABV Belgian Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Bananas, Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:

None

==Introduction==

Project #26 came from my friend Julio’s idea to create a Banana and Chocolate stout. I have used bananas and chocolate in other beers before so what I did was I pulled a page from one of my old recipes. I minimized the used of bananas to a few unlike what I did with Ban-Anna’s Love Nectar. Since I wanted to make something drinkable as well, I ended using enough ingredients to make a basic milk stout that would not be too high in alcohol. In order to bleed the chocolate and banana through I added the cocoa nibs and bananas along with little bit of flavoring and the vanilla beans. The vanilla beans would represent a more of a flan aspect to the beer as I am using lactose but also along with chocolate, it would be a banana choco flan like beer. The choice in yeast was made since I wanted to go with banana and dark fruit like clovey flavors. I know I could of used a heffeweizen yeast which may have been more suited for this because of the enhanced banana flavors but I figure I try this out first since I already have the bananas in this beer. So let’s see how well this came out. Cheers to my friend Julio for coming up with the idea. Cheers bro!

Aromas:

Bananas, Bubble gum, clove spice, Mexican chocolate, vanilla, dark fruit raisin hints, piloncillo sugar cone hints, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, anise, molasses, toffee, caramel and tobacco hints.

Flavors:

Rich Bananas, flan hints, bubble gum, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, crème brulee hints, coffee notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Mexican chocolate hints, piloncillo sugar cone, coffee cake, tobacco hints, anise, molasses and pecan hints.

Aftertaste:

Finishes with a roasty coffee and earthy bitterness with lingering clove, vanilla, chocolate and banana. No alcohol in the aftertaste, dark murky medium body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:

A pretty delicious beer. While I think it is not my best brew, I can definitely tell where I can change some things. For starters, I would need to make this one an imperial. The beer came out a little too light for its complexity. It seems a lot of the flavors are forward but then the aftertaste is bitter. It is possible this is due to the Belgian strain. I think I would definitely change it by going with more malt to make it an Imperial Milk stout and definitely go with the German Heff strain for next time. Overall, I think it is worthy of another go and definitely grows as it gets warmer.

Anime Corner:

This original character, which I do not remember where I got the picture from, was the best thing I could think of as a form of reaction to the way this beer is supposed to be. The idea was the banana chocolate flan aspect that definitely fit with the ingredients paired perfectly with the reaction of deliciousness. While the results of the beer were not quite what I had hoped for, the overall idea was there and is definitely something I will work for once I redo the recipe. I really want that look of amazement in people’s reaction when they try the beer. We will see…

Sources:

http://i.imgur.com/lEDl7c1.jpg

Phantom Bride collaboration by Belching Beaver

November 1, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Alice in Chains, amarillo, beer collaboration, Belching Beaver, Citra, collaboration, Deftones, Emily, GORE, india pale ale, IPA, Juice, mosaic hops, Phantom Bride, Simcoe, The Corpse Bride | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

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

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

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

Cheers – Nathan

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Darkness by Surly brewing

October 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2016 Surly Darkness, Black Magic, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, dark chocolate, Darkness, Evil, harpy, Kill-LA-Kill, Lord of Darkness, milk Chocolate, passion fruit, Russian Imperial Stout, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Surly Brewing | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.35/7

2016 Darkness by Surly brewing is a 12% ABV World Class Russian Imperial Stout.

Label:
The legendary hound of Hades Cerberus was said to guard the gates of the Underworld, preventing the dead from leaving. In this year’s art by Adam Martin, he also protects a massive stash of Surly Darkness. Go ahead and try to grab one. If his three heads don’t get you, his snake-headed tail certainly will.

This massive Russian Imperial Stout contains notes of chocolate, coffee, dried tart cherries, and raisins. It finishes sweet, with a piney resinous hop character.

You can drink this now, or hoard it like Cerberus, it’s up to you if you want to be a bit more generous with it than he is.

==Introduction==

Wow… Stronger this year it seems. 12% ABV is what many sites are giving this one and plainly it is awesome. Surly beers don’t show an ABV and sometimes, some beers won’t have any ABV listed anywhere but for 12% that is really cool. Darkness has been a very important beer. It represents the Dark Lord in the state of Minnesota similar to how California has Black Tuesday and Texas has La Muerta. Of course, as the years go by, the hype for specialty stouts change. Like right now, one of the biggest stouts people are hyped about here in California is the Bottle Logic Fundamental Observation. A stout I will probably not bring to the site until it becomes easier available. Anyways, every year I bring this beer to the site and every year it is always one to the masses. Let’s take a look at it shall we? Cheers!

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

Flavors:
Deep Dark Abyss of 4th dimensional chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian and German chocolates, stone fruit mango right off, peaches, apricot dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, raspberries, plums, figs, dark cherries, molasses, anise, tropical guava, dragon fruit, passion fruit grapefruit, tangerine gummies, citrus, oranges marshmallows, lechera sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, whipped cream, plantains, chocolate mango, brown sugar, honey, dark candi sugar, fruit cake, pecan pie, almond joy, bourbon hints, bananas, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, maple syrup, earthy hop notes, stone fruit peaches and cream, mocha, coffee cake, cherry Dr. Pepper hints, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolates, toasted coconut, grahama crackers, double chocolate cake and cherry chocolate mousse.

Aftertaste:
Rich Chocolate mango, coffee, tropical fruit like dragon fruit, passion fruit, earthy notes, oak, rye bread, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, banana, dark fruit raisin, blackberry preserves, coconut, fruit cake, pecan pie and other sweet goodies. No alcohol in the taste, dark abyss, 5th dimensional dark matter body (I can see a black hole forming), smooth velvety, chewy and silky mouthfeel and a dangerously easy drinkability as past iterations.

Overall:
Supremely above Exceptional and definitely something is different with this one. I think with the additional ABV, the more malts that went into it and certainly enhances the flavor to new heights. A rich complex and sweet stout that has reminiscent flavors of tropical fruit hints. Absolutely one of my favorite beers for being hard to get for sure. They released the Barrel aged version of this one but I think my last review of the brew with the bourbon barrel one does it justice so I will leave it be. However, for this beer, if you have not ever had this one before of if you are a fan of this one, I strongly and highly recommend you find a way to get your hands on this piece of gold!!!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill was chosen in the previous versions of this beer. Every year I try to find as many details as I can as to why she fits with the iterations of the brew. For starts, the red and white of the label pair well with the evil version of her which is the white one with Junketsu as well as the blood. The aspect of Cerberus for her comes with the different versions of (2 Junketsus and the regular Senketsu version which is the one black armor). Maybe a stretch for sure but I definitely love pairing her with each year’s version since the first time I tried it.

Sources:
https://danbooru.donmai.us/data/__junketsu_and_matoi_ryuuko_kill_la_kill_drawn_by_takatsuki_nato__b716e63ddef98837323fdb232372b08e.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/pcNT5vs.jpg
https://www.rpnation.com/applications/core/interface/imageproxy/imageproxy.php?img=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsST0chF.jpg&key=3b91f57e98d7828abb73c9cb94fd8f54189127f251490e7c84ed1b9fe8b343bd
http://i.imgur.com/rqACHxM.jpg
http://67.media.tumblr.com/097550c0e49e04ad47080ab498657833/tumblr_nsu1965O2I1u6f6neo1_1280.jpg

Strawberry & Cranberry Three Philosophers by Brewery Ommegang

October 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Quadrupel, cranberries, Dizzy, Guilty Gear, Ommegang, Ommegang brewing, Strawberries, Strawberry & Cranberry Three Philosophers, three philosophers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Strawberry & Cranberry Three Philosophers by Brewery Ommegang is a 9.7% ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with Strawberries and Cranberries.

Label:
WHERE HEAVEN MET EARTH AND STAYED AWHILE
To Ponder Your Thoughts
Once this beer was a dream, not quite finished.
Like a symphony missing a line.
A quadrupel, for nights of deep thinking, and we thought it was perfectly fine.
But we wated much more, so we pondered a while. We brewed on but our minds would not cease. Once we used cherries, and now, other, other lovely berries and Eureka! A dark Masterpiece!
This unique version of Three Philosophers unites caramel and chocolate notes of our malty quadrupel ale with strawberries and cranberries, for new complexities to invite your deepest consideration.

==Introduction==

Since the first time I have tried Three Philosophers, it has been till this day, one of my top favorite “common” beers in the world. Essentially right next to St. Bernardus abt 12 and Trois Pistoles. While I think even after this one, that beer will remain a favorite of mine, there is no doubt in my mind, that a first bottled variant of the original brings me so much joy, it is ridiculous. The original base beer was a quadruple and cherry kriek hybrid. This one, I am not sure what process they went with. Whether they blended a strawberry and cranberry lambic or just made a pure quadruple and brewed it with the fruit, I am not sure. One thing is for sure, Ommegang is one of my favorites when it comes to Belgian style brews. I have yet to go wrong with their beers. So with that said, cheers to a new variant of the Three Philosophers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit cherries, raspberries, raisins, figs, dates, plums, prunes, currants, blackberries, Strawberries, cranberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, strawberry cake, chocolate pomegranates, chocolate raisinettes, wine grapes, port wine, dark candi sugar, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, mixed berry preserves on rye bread, berry yogurt, bananas and clovey phenolic notes.

Flavors:
Rich strawberries and cranberries, wine grapes, port wine, dark candi sugar, rock candy, Pan dulce Mexican sweet bread, Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding with raisins), dark fruit cherries, raspberries, raisins, figs, dates, plums, prunes, currants, blackberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, strawberry cake, chocolate pomegranates, chocolate raisinettes, pecan pie, cinnamon, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, bananas, clove spice, stone fruit peach, mango, mixed berry yogurt, marshmallows, citrus and mixed berry preserves on toasted rye bread.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lots of rich dark fruits and mixed fruit flavors, vanilla, bananas, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, earthy notes and rich dark candi sugar. No alcohol in the taste, bloody crimson body, smooth, cream, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally awesome! Definitely up there with some of the best quads I love including the newer fruited quads I have tried like the Fig and raspberry quads from Figueroa Mountain and Mikkeller respectively, as an example. There is so much going on here ranging from the sweet dark fruit, chocolate and caramel flavors to the mild tartness brought by the fruit mix. As I mentioned before, while this one and the original are awesome in their own right, the fact that the original is my favorite, I will keep it that way. Still, this is a high recommendation for those that love Belgians and Quads!

Anime Corner:
Dizzy from Guilty Gear was brought back to represent the Three Philosophers as she did with the last beer. Essentially, she is one philosopher and the wings are the other 2 philosophers. This time however, I wanted to bring her with colors that would represent well with the new fruit additions to the beer. Still an awesome pairing to go with.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/3QtUlXe.jpg
http://pbs.twimg.com/media/CmdW12oUcAAQMwa.png
http://animega.chu.jp/img/ill/110525ill029a.jpg
https://static.acg12.com/uploads/2016/06/f79b99f907a3d52605dce90763b8f5ab.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/otagach/imgs/2/0/207d7e43.jpg

Double Bastard Bigger Longer Uncut by Stone/Arrogant Brewing

October 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Arrogant brewing, Darkstalkers, Double Bastard, Double Bastard Ale, Double Bastard Bigger Longer Uncut, Islay Scotch Whisky Barrels, Jedah, Jedah Dohma, Lilith Aensland, Morrigan Aensland, scotch whiskey, Stone Brewing, stone brewing co, Stone Double Bastard, World Class American Strong Ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.25/7

Double Bastard Bigger Longer Uncut by Stone/Arrogant Brewing is an 13% ABV American Strong Ale aged in Islay Scotch Whisky Barrels

Label:
Arrogance. Doubled, Barreled. Served Straight Up.

Weakness Is worn on the sleeves. Boldness Is within the heart. This intensified blend of barrel-aged Double Bastard Ale is all heart baby. The weak will find it to be a telltale heart. It knows of your fallibility. It smells your fear. The heart of this beer disdains you, as it disdains all things homogenized, wimpy and uncultured. You do know the truth of yourself, no? If you hesitated to answer that, if even for a split second, that in and of itself is telling. If you aren’t capable of knowing the reality of yourself, this beer can and will take the responsibility of informing you of what you should already know. (And it you’ve lost your way in this text already and no longer are clear about what I am saying, your reading pace has exceeded your comprehension pace. Go back, slow down and start over, bright eyes.)

Take a deep breath. Let it out slowly. Evenly. Give yourself some positive affirmations. Breathe deep again. There. Feel better? If you followed those instructions, then set this bottle down and back away immediately, you new age poseur. Fight or flight and I’d recommend the latter for you, tiger. Wet paper bags are more your speed.

==Introduction==

My love for double bastard never ceased ever since that fateful day where I had the dream I would try it. Since then have had so many variants and now as I get close to making my own version of the delicious Midnight Brunch Double Bastard, Stone/Arrogant Brewing released a wild one from left field. I didn’t think much of it but when I saw it was made with Islay Scotch Whiskey, I definitely thought, this is a must try for sure. Of all the spirit aged beers that I have tried in the past, the Islay Scotch aged is one that is so rare, I last tried a Brew Dog Stout that had this a long time ago. So for stone to release this, this is a truly special occasion indeed and the name fits it perfectly. Cheers for many more from the true Kings of Beer, the Arrogant Bastards!!

Aromas:
Lots of smokey peat, molasses, bacon, smoked oak, BBQ sauce, Scotch whiskey, bourbon, vanilla dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, cranberries, dates, raisins, roasted cherries, brown sugar, cinnamon, tobacco, toffee, rye bread, orange preserves, campfire and smoked marshmallow smores.

Flavors:
Rich Smoked oak, Rich smoked peat, BBQ sauce, bacon, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, maple, scotch whiskey, bourbon, marshmallow, campfire burnt chocolate smores, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, toffee, rye bread, orange preserves, grapefruit preserves, honey, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, cranberries, dates, raisins, tobacco, leather, Stone fruit peach, mango, butterscotch, sourdough bread, earthy, floral, and grassy hops, fruit cake, Key lime pie hints, brown sugar and roasted cherries.

Aftertaste:
Finishes very smokey bitter and full of complex flavors of vanilla, Scotch whisky, campfire wood, marshmallows, bacon hints, dark fruits and chocolate hints. No alcohol in the tasted despite the ABV, Crimson clear body, smooth, crisp, refreshing, velvety, creamy and mildy syrupy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bit above exceptional! This is very damn special. A very unique Bastard indeed. Very different type of smokey goodness that definitely comes from the Islay Scotch. The Double Bastard is there but changed big time by the unique flavors presented in complexity of aging in the special spirit of the Islay Scotch. Definitely not for everyone and as Arrogant Tradition goes, many may or may not like it but if you are a fan, I say you will. Go get this Bastard!

Anime Corner:
Lilith Aensland and the many Darkstalkers characters were used in this pairing as I wanted to go with a movie like theme and keep Lilith as the main character as she has been for the other Double Bastards. She even has somewhat of a director’s uniform. The theme of Doubles with Jedah and Morrigan have been a part of the theme since the original double bastard.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/BXNSB6e.jpg
https://67.media.tumblr.com/e74961f3a62c151cbf93433deb58316b/tumblr_o0gzifAGzV1rs0zxko1_r1_1280.jpg
https://cdnb3.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/000/651/431/large/robert-porter-morrililly.jpg?1443930460
http://blog-imgs-44-origin.fc2.com/y/u/r/yuritrap/yr110191.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/rtuY1hq.jpg
http://xxgasm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/darkstalkers_morriga-4830.jpg

Dragon’s Milk Reserve Coconut Rum Barrel Stout by New Holland brewing

October 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged coconut, Dragon's Milk, Dragon's Milk Reserve, Dragons, Freedom Planet, Imperial Stout, New Holland Brewing, Rum barrel aged, Sash Lilac, Toasted Coconut | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Dragon’s Milk Reserve Coconut Rum Barrel Stout by New Holland brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with coconut and aged in Rum Barrels.

Label:
Coconut complements the roasted chocolate flavor of Dragon ‘s Milk, coaxing flavors that are reminiscent of lazy summer days. Rum barrels add a tropical character and a distinctive twist on tradition.

==Introduction==

The time has come again, with another variant of the awesome Dragon’s Milk. I have tried this one several times and done many reviews as well. Today, I bring you the Coconut and Rum version of the brew. The only other dragon I have tried was the raspberry one and since I loved that one so much, it inspired me to make a raspberry and tropical fruit version of that same beer. So basically, the Dragon’s Milk and I go way back and the love for this beer keeps going. So with that being said, let’s take a look at the white whale of a dragon we have this time around. Cheers!

Aromas:
Mocha, Coffee Cake, Rich Almond Joy Coconut Chocolate, rum, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, capirotada raisin bread pudding with coconut, coconut and pecan pie, Danish cookies, hazelnut nectar, coconut chocolate truffles, fruit cake piña colada notes, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, choco flan, lactose milk sugar, crème brulee, toffee, dark fruit raisins, cherries, figs, currants, blackberries, fudge chocolate cake, rocky road ice cream and chocolate milk shake.

Flavors:
Liquid almond joy chocolates, toasted coconut, cocada Mexican candy, macaroons, oak, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, rum, flan, crème brulee, toffee, dark fruit raisins, cherries, figs, currants, blackberries, fudge chocolate cake, rocky road ice cream, choco flan, lactose milk sugar, capirotada raisin bread pudding with coconut, coconut and pecan pie, marshmallows, peanut butter hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, Irish cream, steamed coconut milk, coffee cake, espresso coffee hints, tobacco, leather, rye bread, anise, molasses, Danish cookies, mocha, hazelnut nectar, coconut chocolate truffles, fruit cake piña colada notes, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi and lychee.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with super rich with coconut, tropical rum, vanilla, flan, almond joy chocolate, flan, crème brulee, fruit cake, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit, toffee, and smokey notes. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A definite bucket lister. As much as I love the original or even the raspberry one which I believe are some of the best beers and a staple in my list of favorite bourbon barrel stouts, this coconut rum is simply another level altogether. There has been a trend for me with beer variants and it seems that coconut beers have been definitely out of this world. I definitely loved this one so much, I had to get several and I highly recommend you do the same and try the coconut deliciousness.

Anime Corner:
Sash Lilac from Freedom Planet and original character art by Tofu93 were chosen to be the dragons that go with this beer. As I mentioned before, the beer is a rarity like, like a white whale. Although, this one is a white dragon instead. So the under the sea part in the picture as Sash rises from the water represents that part. The other pics just complement as they are both dragons.

Sources:
http://img12.deviantart.net/6be7/i/2015/006/5/5/freedom_planet___lilac_vs_spade_by_banzatou-d8ctqec.png
http://img12.deviantart.net/018e/i/2016/051/a/d/sash_lilac_by_dansyron-d9shnt6.png
https://i.imgur.com/bRycwv9.png
http://orig05.deviantart.net/7b18/f/2014/219/a/e/fan_art_____sash_lilac_by_articaartes-d7u31gf.png
http://orig04.deviantart.net/1768/f/2014/207/c/8/rouken_ych_by_tofu93-d7se6ee.jpg

À Tout Le Monde collaboration by Unibroue and MegaDeth

October 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged american farmhouse, À Tout Le Monde, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, dry hopped, Izayoi Sakuya, Megadeth, Saison, Spices, Touhou, Touhou Project, Unibroue, Vic Rattlehead | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

À Tout Le Monde collaboration by Unibroue and MegaDeth is a 4.5% ABV Canadian Saison/ Farmhouse ale brewed with spices and Dry hopped.

Commercial Description:
A new beer from Unibroue born of the friendship between its Brewmaster Jerry Vietz and Dave Mustaine, legendary lead vocalist and founder of heavy metal group Megadeth, is officially launching today in the U.S. and Quebec. Named À TOUT LE MONDE as a nod to one of the band’s songs and one of their biggest hits in Quebec, this beer recalls the consonance of Unibroue’s flagship beer, La Fin du Monde.

Dave Mustaine became friends with Jerry Vietz during Megadeth tours in Quebec. During their time together, Dave and Jerry created À TOUT LE MONDE as a symbol of their friendship. “At Unibroue, we appreciate flavour – and we know Megadeth is anything but boring,” explains Jerry Vietz, Brewmaster at Unibroue. “To Megadeth’s delight and that of their fans and connoisseurs, we’re offering an uncompromising beer with rich hoppy aromas, created according to Dave’s personal tastes.”

“Our shared passion for excellence produced a one-of-a-kind saison beer,” added Dave Mustaine, Megadeth’s lead vocalist and founder. “I’m thrilled to present this new beer to my fans, and everyone who loves good beers with character.”

À TOUT LE MONDE ale is a flavorful Belgian style dry hopped golden saison with hoppy and spicy notes. Topped by an unctuous head, this beer will give fans a clean, fresh taste and a crisp dry finish inviting to take another sip.

==Introduction==

À Tout Le Monde or “For all the world or everyone” is inspired by the actual song in MegaDeth’s 1994 album, Youthanasia. This is the first time MegaDeth joins the craft beer scene after several awesome bands like AC/DC, Iron Maiden and many others worked to release their own brews. This choice to release something light was chosen as it would appeal to the massed. Basically something you can drink a lot of and still enjoy. It seems like a great choice and now that the beer is here on the site, let’s see what this awesome stuff is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apricots, pepper corn, Herbal, Floral, spicy, earthy and tropical hops, coriander hints, lavender, farmhouse hay, biscuit bread and honey.

Flavors:
Herbal, Floral, spicy, earthy and tropical hops, peppercorn spice, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, mango, farmhouse hay, lavender, banana notes, honey, biscuit bread, wheat, vanilla, lemon zest, clove spices, sour apple notes, cane sugar hints, coriander notes and cranberry hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry rich with notes of Stone fruits, biscuit bread, herbal, floral and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste, hazy pale yellow medium body, crisp, clean, refreshing and effervescent mouth feel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good saison that has many of the awesome flavors you would find from many of the great saisons out there. While I think it does not bring anything new that I haven’t had before, this one is still awesome and delicious. I would definitely say this one is a good gateway representative and definitely something many people will enjoy, especially since it is Megadeth after all. Find this one, especially if you are a fan.

Anime Corner:
Sakuya Izayoi from Touhou Project and Vic Rattlehead from Megadeath were used in this pairing as I was definitely trying to search for Megadeth and anime. Long behold, I found these to be tagged with Megadeth on them. First, since Vic is in the label and second, Sakuya relates to it as she has the guitar and she stands in front of the lyrics “Never Walk Alone” and “Call to Arms”.

Sources:
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/155/816/00b6f66b4302028ff09a6b784c01bdcd.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/tjz9tjZ.jpg
http://i2.ruliweb.com/img/16/07/31/1563f74b4f646c91a.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pq8bV3I.jpg

2016 Hoarders Cuvée by The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, anniversary ale, Beer Hybrid, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, cuvee, Hoarders Cuvée, hoarders society, Imperial Stout, Melange, Old Ale, Raspberries, The Bruery, vanilla beans, Yoko, Yoko Littner, Yoko Ritona | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2016 Hoarders Cuvée by The Bruery is an 18.5% ABV American Strong Ale/Old Ale/Cuvée hybrid aged in bourbon barrels, raspberries, vanilla beans and cacao nibs.

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

This Cuvée is the icing on the cake – literally – as it took top honors in the Hoarders Cuvée blending tournament to be produced by The Bruery in 2016. Featuring a nearly equal blend of our most storied bourbon barrel-aged beers – Black Tuesday and our anniversary ale – with additions of raspberries, vanilla beans and cacao nibs, this beer was designed by Hoarders Society member, Paul Moore, and his teammate, Luis Barriga, to embody the ultimate cupcake. It’s the first fruited beer of its kind out of The Bruery, and a fitting release for the first installment in the newly minted Hoarders Cuvée series.

==Introduction==
Exclusively released to Hoarders Society only, unless you can trade for another Hoarders member or there is a special someone that is a huge fan of the site to donate! They basically made a special edition Mélange X (by X I mean some kind of number given to Mélange beers that mix Black Tuesday, Anniversary Ales and other ales or ingredients). I’ll be honest, there would be no way I could get my hands on this unless I buy it in the special online sites or trade. This website has slowly been grabbing a small trend of followers of which I especially admire. They were able to donate this one to me seeing as I love lots of the Bruery beers. As a Reserve member I can only bring so much to the table to help those that look for these beers. So they decided to make some kind of raspberry cupcake beer. It is very interesting as my last home brewing experiments with raspberries lead to a crazy fruity beer about “DRAGONS”. Interesting stuff for sure but this is the first time they release some Hoarders exclusive beer. Seems very special to and one I am happy to have you guys to thank, my readers and fans to provide this one to me. Let’s have a look! Cheers!

Aromas:
Super Rich Raspberry chocolate, cake, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Banana Split Sundae, pecan pie, fruit cake, hazelnut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, raspberry cheesecake, flan, crème brulee, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, currants, plums, blueberries, red velvet cake, berries and cream, raspberry indulgence candies, Danish cream, dark chocolate, cherry chocolate cordials and Chambord raspberry liqueur.

Flavors:
Super rich berries and cream, Raspberry indulgence candies, red velvet cake, strawberry short cake, raspberry chocolate cup cake, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, currants, plums, blueberries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, raspberry yogurt, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Belgian chocolate, rich Chambord raspberry liqueur, cake icing, raspberry cobbler, cherry cobbler, Danish cream cookies, dulce de leche caramel, marzipan, mazapan, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, banana split sundae, cherry cordials, flan, crème brulee, double chocolate raspberry cake, raspberry cheesecake, vanilla, marshmallows, oak, sweetened condensed milk, campfire smores, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, and almond joy ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes in rich raspberry chocolate cake goodness, flan, crème brulee, raspberry sweetened condensed milk, Danish cream cookies, dark fruit, vanilla, cheesecake, raspberry preserves, dark cherry yogurt, fruit cake, bourbon, oak and dulce de leche caramel. Despite the 18.5% ABV, this ends with subtle to no alcohol in the taste. Crazy right? Begins Deep Dark full body but as you sip more of it, it starts to look more like a crimson deep dark body. Smooth, velvety, creamy, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bucket lister in its own damn right. Reminding me in some ways of my own creation, the Raging Passio-Lactus Raspear Dragons but basically missing the chocolate and vanilla and very important, the awesomeness of Black Tuesday and their Anniversary Old Ale. Essentially, my brew is still leagues away in complexity simply due to what I was going for. Nevertheless, the interesting combination of Raspberries, Chocolate and Vanilla are definitely something I plan to focus on. Essentially, this bucket lister gave me more ideas for another home brew. What can I say, when you home brew, you have a bit of knowledge which is power to make similar great beers. Even so, I still help local breweries to share info on them from the site. As far this raspberries chocovanille buttercup goes, I extremely recommend to those who definitely want to seek it. I have tried so many great beers and this is hugely, one of a kind!!!!

Anime Corner:
Yoko Littner from Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan was previously chosen when I did the review for Cacaonut. She was used in that special Bruery beer but sadly, the beer was short lived due to lactic infections in the beer. Since then I had not used her in another beer pairing. However, seeing as a beer that used raspberry and chocolate as well as vanilla in a Bruery beer, I had to bring her back. Especially since I had done an awesome review with her in my first Raspberry bourbon barrel-aged stout. Although that one did not have chocolate and vanilla and was more about the emphasis on tropical and exotic fruits. As I drank this though, some flavors of the beer did remind me of my home brew, so there was definitely a need to bring her back to the mix. Besides, for a special brew like this, I have to choose some of the best characters.

Aside from the colors of the ingredients like vanilla and raspberry which can be easily seen through her colors, the armored dark dragon knight armor she wears with her holding the fireball represents something important about the name “Hoarders”. Essentially, I think, which may not be true but, if you are a Hoarder (especially Hoarders Society) and feel really awesome about your status, you are represented by unlimited power as shown by Yoko. However, with great power comes great responsibility as Uncle Ben from Spiderman once said to Peter Parker. Essentially, enjoy that society has given you the ability to enjoy something that the few can only understand but do not forget where you came from. Absolute Power can corrupt Absolutely. Love your beer friends, share a beer or whatever you hoard. Let others know you can still be humble. Yoko despite her hardships still knew how to help others and was a selfless character, Hot anime girl appearances aside. Definitely check out Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/x6kW2EV.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/fdb44-digitalartbyyuewang23.jpg
http://move.loveisover.me/foolfuuka/boards/e/image/1437/49/1437496106755.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zm7UfYc9NsE/VicaGg344cI/AAAAAAAAAHE/Z-xggTktIfQ/w800-h800/maid_ritona_render_by_ichigo_mazapan-d510np7.png
http://i.imgur.com/d5lIIqb.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/650b/f/2012/323/3/a/yoko_littner_sexy_outfit_2_by_mactain-d5lh7wt.jpg

Humulus Rueuze by The Bruery Terreux

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged FF4, Final Fantasy 4, Gueuze, Huell Melon Hops, Humulus Rueuze, oak barrels, Rydia, Rydia of the Myst, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Humulus Rueuze by The Bruery Terreux is a 5.7% ABV Gueuze brewed with Huell Melon Hops and aged in oak barrels.

Label:
FUNKY-HOPPY-TWIST

Commercial Description:
Humulus Rueuze is a variation on our take on the traditional Belgian-style lambic gueuze with one major exception: massive amounts of dry hops. To begin, we carefully select a number of oak barrels that have been aging our sour blonde ale for anywhere from several months to several years, and then blend the beers together for the ideal flavor. Once that is achieved, we pile heaps of Hallertau Blanc hops on top to achieve an aromatic blend like no other, inundating the senses with citrusy, tropical, funky and grassy goodness. This is one complex beer, and it’s best consumed fresh.

==Introduction==

Released to all societies, this one was one that I wasn’t going to bring to the site. It just so happened that I got it as part of the preservation series I subscribe to. So I figured, I give it the ol’ heave ho! And away we go treatment. Essentially, it is not on the site and I am sure people would want to hear about it. To be frank, as much as I love The Bruery sours, the regular Rueuze was super sour. Which I do find awesome but when it comes to trying to find the intricacies of some of the sours it is hard to find. Nevertheless, this one is dry hopped so this one is bound to be even better than the Rueuze I hope. Let’s find out, cheers!

Aromas:
Herbal, floral, piney and earthy hops, honey dew melon, strawberry hints, citrus, orange peel, grapefruit hints, vanilla, farmhouse hay, berries, guava, brettanomyces notes, biscuit bread, oak and yogurt.

Flavors:
Lemon, salt, lime, vanilla, biscuit bread, tejuino maize drink, herbal, floral, piney and earthy hops
strawberry yogurt, wine grapes, funky farmhouse hay, stone fruit apricots, cheese, crackers, oak, Concorde grapes, cranberries, tart berry skins, sour white grapes, brettanomyces notes, passion fruit, guava, orange peel, grapefruit peel, cantaloupe and honeydew melon.

Aftertaste:
Finishes super dry leaving hints of lemon, wet hay, funk, vanilla, bread, floral and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste, pale golden light to hazy body. Crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious indeed! I was wrong in my take but I do agree the hops made a huge difference in the complexity of this one. It adds the complexity of special fruits which mix very well with this sour type of beer. Essentially, giving certain fruity and complex flavors that are not normally there as ingredients. If you have a friend that is in one of the societies or if you sign up for the Bruery Preservation society you can definitely get this one. It is worth a try but you can definitely get other similar sours.

Anime Corner:
Rydia of The Mist from Final Fantasy 4 was used in this pairing as I have not used her in a Bruery pairing before (as far as I can remember) This one was the perfect opportunity as she fits well with the label colors and the hop and fruit profiles. She is a summoner and sorceress so the funk of this beer is essentially the magic that comes from every sip.

Sources:
https://www.ponychan.net/gala/src/1450141432427.jpg
http://d-mob.com/wp-content/attachments/1/812/10.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Suk0cnL.jpg
http://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.roosterteeth.com/uploads/images/87c01965-7f4a-4134-a3fe-ea67a070d6cc/md/CaButler5179caf1020f0.jpg

2016 White Chocolate By The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2016 White Chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | 1 Comment

2016 White Chocolate – The Bruery’s White Oak Wheat Wine with Cocoa Nibs and Vanilla Beans. I have reviewed this one many times so I figure this year, I leave it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/…/2015-white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/

2016 Preservation series The Grade A.K.A Squirrel! By The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Baltic Porter, Blazblue, Blaze Blue, Fenugreek, Lager yeast, makoto nanaya, Maple Syrup, natural flavors, Preservation Series, SQUIRREL!, The Bruery, The Grade | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Preservation series The Grade A.K.A Squirrel! By The Bruery is a 7.6% ABV is a Baltic Porter brewed with maple syrup and Fenugreek with natural flavors.

Label:
“SQUIRREL!”

The Grade is in. It’s built on the backbone of a rich, cold-fermented baltic porter made popular in countries bordering the Baltic Sea. We then hammer it home with the bold, sweet flavors of maple syrup and a touch of fenugreek.

==Introduction==

Released to all societies (Preservation, Reserve and Hoarders), this Baltic Porter/Dark Lager was originally named Squirrel. Why thought? There does not seem to be anything relation to squirrels other than the maple syrup and maple trees. Then again, why was it called ‘The Grade’. I do not know that either. Well, regardless, here is the first Baltic Porter I try from the Bruery. The Baltic Porter being a Porter fermented using lager yeast instead of ale yeast makes for one complex beer. The Bruery already being complex as hell with their beers makes me wonder how crazy this would be. Especially the Fenugreek which I have not tried although it is said it tastes like maple as well. Let’s take a closer look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Coffee, maple syrup, roasted barley notes, dark fruits figs, currants, cherries, blackberries, raisins and plums, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, peanut butter, walnuts, almond joy, marshmallows, mocha, bananas, clove spice, toasted peanuts, caramel, vanilla, leather notes, anise, mint, Danish cream cookies, brown sugar, cinnamon and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Rich hazelnut, maple syrup, walnuts, pecan pie, praline ice cream, macadamia nuts, toasted coconut, toffee, butterscotch, almond milk, Nutter butter cookies, Bitter Peanut Butter cup, toasted peanuts, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, marshmallow, smores chocolate, fenugreek tea, black tea, mocha coffee, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coffee, tobacco, leather, molasses, anise, mint chocolate chip cookies, Danish cream cookies, flan, crème brulee, cookie dough ice cream, cinnamon, earthy hop notes, bananas, clove spice, fruit cake, dark fruit cherries, figs, currants, blackberries, raisins and plums.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with complex sweet nuts like peanut butter and hazelnut, maple, fruit cake, dark fruit, cinnamon, coffee, tea, dark chocolate and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Freaking delicious and damn exceptional. This beer is like a liquid trail mix of all sorts of nuts, dark fruits, creamy goodness and chocolate. Of course, the complexity goes a long way especially for Baltic Porters and while they are rare styles of beer, this one made by the Bruery is nothing short of freaking awesome. There isn’t much I can say that is bad about this one unless you don’t like strong brews or sweeter tasting ones. I highly recommend picking this one up if you are a preservation member at least.

Anime Corner:
Makoto Nanaya from BlazBlue was used in this pairing mainly for the old name of the beer, Squirrel. I did not know why it was called Squirrel until I finally took a couple of sips. Since it is very nutty, using Makoto was perfect as she is a squirrel girl. I mainly based it on the flavors and the old name but the colors of the label don’t pair that well for the most part. Either way, I think they should of left it as Squirrel!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/et15FEh.jpg
http://danbooru.donmai.us/data/sample/__makoto_nanaya_blazblue_drawn_by_todd_l_milhouse__sample-a7d0e788c22a7ba70997f8dd255e4330.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/49MKiyu.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/09/17/10/35/05/52568339_p0.png
http://tbib.org/images/2392/b9d44f3c0cd0fd6598075d785a9b692ae6bf6945.png

Home brewing Project#18 La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad by Nubis Sanctum Ales

October 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Dark Candi Sugar, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Quadruple, Belgian Quadrupple Ale, Belgian Trappist Monastery, Belgian Trappists, Bleach, cane sugar, Dark Belgian Candi, dark fruits, dreams do come true, French Oak, Herradura Añejo Tequila, Holy water, Home brewing, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, kosmos, La Santequilisima Quadrinidad, Las Quad-tro Monjas, Las quatro monjas, Mexican Cane Sugar, Naruto, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Plums, Ryuko Matoi, Sangria, Temari Sabakuno, Tequila, Tequila Barrel Aged, Tequila Oak Aged, The four Nuns, The SancTequilified Quadrinity, Trappist, turbinado sugar, Xenosaga, Yoruichi Shihouin | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

Home brewing Project#18 La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 12% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.

Label:
Holy Trappist Belgian Quadruple brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.
A prophecy, only once told by the highest of religious leaders, has predicted The Four Nuns or Las
Quatro Monjas will return. Ancient manuscripts indicated that the Abbey Nun, The Buddhist Nun, The Shaolin Nun and the Celestial Space Nun will each bring the nectar of God as given to man once before.

This time, however, the nuns infuse the elements of Wind, Water, Fire and Earth to create a celestial nectar. Meanwhile, various religious leaders forbid that mankind ever lay their lips on the very oracle left by the nuns. Lucky for you, the nuns happen to enjoy visiting Nubis Sanctum Ales.

La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad, or The SancTequilified Quadrinity is stored in this very bottle.

Ingredients: Holy Water, Malts, Hops, Dark Belgian Candi Sugar, Turbinado Cane Sugar, French Oak, Herradura Añejo Tequila & Trappist Yeast.
==Introduction==

Project #18 came from the need to surpass my previous skills of the brewing arts. After successfully creating project #2, I wanted to create a barrel aged version of that special quadrupel that I held very close to my heart. So what did I do? I adjusted the recipe to add a bit more ingredients than before including one of them being a small sample of Holy land water. Yes, some people may think this is blasphemous, but in order to make a brew that was truly worthy of monks in Belgium and praise to the almighty God (depending on your beliefs) I added the vial to the brew at flame out. I am no priest but I did say a prayer for the brew to bring forth good fortune to those that drink it. LOL I just hope the beer doesn’t make my friend Aaron Mediola from BeerMetalDude.com catch fire (Just Kidding brother!). So the liquor I decided to use in this project was a Tequila. Why Tequila? Well, two reasons. First, tequila barrel aged brews rule and are to come by and second, after The Lost Abbey made Agave Maria which was their Tequila Barrel aged brew, I decided it was perfect. The beer was going to be about nuns and their worship to God. It was also a crazy idea I really wanted to do. Why is it Project# 18? Well, I had made this brew back in February 2016 and after a month, I put it on the Tequila oak for 6 months. The Tequila was sitting in oak since January 2016 so 2+6, that’s 8 months! Essentially, the 12% ABV was something unexpected but my working with Turbinado and Candi sugars probably had a lot to do with it. Regardless, I bottled it last month and now October 6, 2016 I bring it forth for a review. Yes, the brew will be published at a later date on my site but for perspective purposes and logging this masterpiece I want to get it right. So, for being a quadrupel aged in tequila, I hope is nothing short of amazing and knowing that I can definitely make an awesome brew, I will be pursuing more projects soon like this. Stay tuned, but for now, let’s take a look at this celestial nectar. Cheers!

Aromas:
Tequila notes, oak, Dark fruits of plums, raisins, figs, cherries, bubble gum notes, clove spice, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruits, Bananas, Brown sugar, Belgian Candi sugar, Chocolate, Sangria, rice pudding, tamarind, marshmallows, chocolate smores, lechugilla agave nectar, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Danish cream, port wine, fruit cake, leathery hints, apples and butterscotch.

Flavors:
Rich Dulce De Leche Caramel, Grilled Bananas, Deep Dark fruits, plums, raisins, figs, dark cherries, dates, clove spice, Belgian Candi sugar, bubble gum notes, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, sweetened condensed milk, tamarind,Vanilla, Oak, Marshmallows, Tequila, Mezcal, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Sangria Wine grapes, Mexican pan dulce, Danish cream, rock candy, port wine, leather notes, rye bread, pecan pie, hazelnut hints, pecan ice cream, brown sugar, dragon fruit notes, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruit peaches, golden apples, flan, funnel cake, waffle cone, mango notes and butterscotch.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a Tequila and vanilla oak flavors with so much complexity lingering of the rich dark fruits, caramel, pecan pie, flan, sweetened condensed milk, sangria, agave, stone fruit, funnel cake and mild Danish cream. Slightly boozy in the aftertaste but diminishes as the beer gets warmer and does not detract from the flavors. Full bodied Honey Crimson Colored, Smooth, velvety, creamy, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability

Overall:
Nothing short of a miracle. I am very proud of these results. The Tequila takes this brew to another level. I do not give this one a 7/7 since it is not a beer you could find, but trust me when I say you could drink some of my brews. To me, it is my own personal bucket lister in the sense that I really feel I have achieved so much just from trying different beers and now trying to make my own different beers. This one is probably the best one I have ever made along with the Sangrileche Stout, Frontier Tropics and Diablita De Leche Banana Weizenbock. This beer screams some godly ambrosia. Some nectar that even I don’t understand. I can definitely feel proud that if those dudes at Westvleteren or St. Bernardus tried my beer, they would definitely find it indistinguishable from some of their greats!

Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach, KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, Temari Sabakuno from Naruto and Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill make a return in this brew. Since I used them in my Project# 2, Las Quadtro Monjas, it was only fair to get them in the somewhat right attire for nuns they represent. They represent my passion for the work that I do. Reviewing and Brewing. These girls have been my favorite characters from the different anime series that I love for the longest time going way back to the year 2002. Being a big anime fan and the shows I like, complementing the beers I love with different characters doesn’t have the same effect as the way I complement using my top favorites. AS I mentioned in the last review of the original base beer, the name Las Quad-tro is a play on the Belgian word for Quadrupel and Cuatro which is 4. La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad is a play on the words for La Santisima Trinidad or The Holy Trinity. I had worked for a couple weeks not only finding the right combinations of artwork in photo-shop but the right backgrounds. Of course, all the artwork belongs to the perspective owner as I do not claim any art. As I mentioned before too, the 4 girls are the best and the ones I use as my mascots for my whole passion of anime and the best beers in this whole lost treasures of taste and experience. Cheers!

Renewal by 4th Tap

October 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 4th Tap, agua fresca, American Pale Wheat Ale, Mei Terumi, Naruto, Pale Wheat Ale, Renewal, Tamarind, Tamarindo, wheat ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Renewal by 4th Tap is a 5.8% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Tamarind

Label:
Tart, energizing, curious, and refreshing.

==Introduction==

I cannot recall the last time I had a beer with Tamarind other than the Jolly Pumpkin Forgotten Tales of the Last Gypsy Blender Series 1 Volume one which had both Mango and Tamarind. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.com, we bring forth the next brew in the line from 4th tap. A rare ingredient in beer but a major ingredient in Mexican drinks, candy and cuisine. I love tamarind and definitely worth a try for a home brew. This is the second brew from 4th tap that I have had while the Sorghum one was interesting, I cannot pass judgment on a brewery unless I try more. With this one however, I think I can very well say that I will be able to tell how good this is in terms of tamarind. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Tamarind, sugar cane, mild dark fruit raisins, stone fruit hints, pecan hints, citrus, lemon, peppercorns and coriander hints.

Flavors:
Rich tamarind, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plums, toffee, Cane sugar, biscuit bread, rye bread, coriander hints, citrus, lemon peel, lemon grass, stone fruit mango, peach, musty grapes, agave nectar, raspberry hints, cranberry hints, pecan pie hints, cinnamon hints, ginger ale, peppercorn, clove spice hints, tropical fruit papaya hints, passion fruit hints and dragon fruit hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes sweet and slightly tart with hints of tamarind and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, honey colored clear body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious brew. Super-duper refreshing and the type you can have several for the summer. This one definitely shined with tamarind. The tamarind wasn’t over powering in terms of being the dominant flavor but the combination with the style of beer its surely gave way to other complex flavors that I could try to find. I highly recommend this one for sure and get several if you can find it. Definitely a gate way for those that love Agua Fresca de Tamarindo.

Anime Corner:
Mei Terumi from Naruto was chosen for this pairing as I wanted not only to pair with the tamarind colors but the color of the label tool. Her laying down next to the waterfall goes well with the label. Some people use waterfalls to meditate or relax as the sounds definitely become a form of therapy for many. So renewal is definitely a them with the art pairing. Her brown hair is for the tamarind.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/332362-4000×2248-naruto-studio+pierrot-mei+terumi+%28mizukage%29-rikamello-single-highres.jpg

2016 Two Tortugas by Karl Strauss

October 9, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 12 Beers of Christmas, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Inside Out, Joy, Karl Strauss, Pixar, Sadness, Twelve Beers of San Diego Christmas, Two Tortugas | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Two Tortugas by Karl Strauss is an 11.1% ABV Belgian Quadrupel ale.

Label:
It was 2011 when we first released Two Tortugas Belgian Quad as our holiday ale. It was supposed to be a one-time release for the holidays, but your feedback demanded otherwise. Six batches and numerous medals later, our Belgian Quad is back in all its original glory. Two Tortugas has aromas of dark fruit and caramel, with a slight hint of bubblegum from the Belgian Abbey yeast. This beer is robust and full-bodied with rich malty flavors of toffee, plums, and dates. Drink it now or lay it down – Two Tortugas’ journey is just getting started.

Original 2011 Label:
San Diego may not top the list for birdwatchers but it certainly tops the list for beer-drinkers. And while you’re more likely to spot a Sea Turtle than a Turtle Dove, tracking down a world class beer is easy. Two Tortugas is the 2nd addition to our less than literal “Twelve Days” series of holiday ales. This Belgian-inspired Quadruple Ale has a delicate union of toffee, dark fruits, and warming spices that will continue to develop with age. Raise a glass to 2011 or save a bottle for 2021, this turtle’s got legs.

==Introduction==

The 2nd release of the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego was re-released this year now available in time for the Holidays. This was the only beer I missed out on since the release of the first brew. I have spent a lot of time looking for this one. I once tried it at Uncle Henry’s Deli in Downey California but this was something I really wanted to bring to the site for years. Thanks to everyone who asked and begged Karl Strauss for a re-release. It is because of you, the awesome fans that I was able to bring this one to the site at last! As for the lore of the holiday theme which is similar to the Bruery, the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego is Karl Strauss take on the song but with gifts in relation to San Diego. Also, for this one being in my favorite style of beer, let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Piloncillo sugar cone, fruit cake, ginger bread, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit prunes, raisins, dates, raspberries, dark cherry, figs, currants, black berries, clove spice, vanilla, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, Stone fruit peach, apricot, plums, banana cream pie, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, rock candy, Sweetened condensed milk, flan, fruit cake, cinnamon, nutmeg and toffee.

Flavors:
Super rich Dulce De Leche caramel covered grilled bananas, clove spice, vanilla, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, Rich dark fruit prunes, raisins, dates, raspberries, dark cherry, figs, currants, black berries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate cherry cordials, pan dulce, Belgian dark candi sugar, rock candy, marshmallows, waffle cone, Sweetened condensed milk, flan, fruit cake, cinnamon, nutmeg, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar, Stone fruit peach, apricot, plums, banana cream pie, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, walnut truffle and chocolate truffle turtles.

Aftertaste:
Finishes rich in dark fruit, dulce de leche and bananas, piloncillo sugar cone, fruit cake, chocolate, pecan pie, marshmallows and sweetened condensed milk. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Amber to Dark Honey colored clear body, smooth, velvety and chewy mouth feel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Super Bananas and Dulce de Leche! What an exceptional brew. It has really been a long time coming and now that I carefully analyzed this one, I can say It was worth the wait. For a Quadrupel, the bananas and caramels were the winner in this one followed by dark fruit and complex goodness. The other part is that for some reason it is easier to drink than what the ABV would have you believe. Yes, it is not a chugger at all but still feels good and not harsh at all. I highly recommend you pick this one up especially for those that missed the 2011 version.

Anime Corner:
Joy and Sadness from Inside Out were used in this pairing as I wanted to not only pair with the colors of the label but also the aspect of the number 2. 2 characters for 2 turtles. Seems easy enough. Since the beer showcases a lot of Banana and Dark fruit flavors, them being together in the artwork is a mashup of the flavors. Yes, much more complex but I think you may kind of get the idea.

Sources:
http://img.komicolle.org/2015-08-13/src/14394707028812.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GqPw78lIh_0/VucgVTxcW2I/AAAAAAAAOnU/MlvSAc8ow9M/w512-h512/ipad_sketch___inside_out_joy_and_sadness_by_mbyuri-d98b7sl.jpg
http://orig01.deviantart.net/4f0a/f/2015/236/c/a/lalla2_by_daefny-d96yqqb.png
http://orig09.deviantart.net/ed2b/f/2015/234/b/f/fa___inside_out_by_whitmoon-d96pbv7.png

Sun Eater by 4th Tap brewing

October 9, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 4th Tap brewing, Ancient Herbed Ale, Gruit, Mileena, Mortal Kombat, Scottish Gruit, sorghum, sorghum ale, Sun Eater | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.25/5

Sun Eater by 4th Tap brewing is a 4.8% ABV Scottish Gruit/Ancient Herbed Ale/Sorghum Ale

Label:
Crisp, herbal, curious, and refreshing.

Commercial Description:
A true son of Texas, this gruit is made with all native Texas ingredients. Sitting on a base of sorghum cane juice and dark brown sugar, Sun Eater is bittered with rosemary and infused with dried lemon peel. It is highly-attenuated for a dry and refreshing finish similar to that of a cider or champagne. This gruit was designed to beat back that Tyrant Sun of hot Texas weather, which is practically year-round, so grab a 6-pack and head out into the world

==Introduction==

Here’s a style of beer that does not come by very often. I think in all the times I have reviewed beers; the Scottish Gruit I have only reviewed twice. The New Belgium Gruit and the Fraoch Heather Ale long ago. Thanks to my friend and fellow beer reviewer Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com, he has graced the site this new entry. Granted, I never had a Gruit made with Sorghum nor do I really know what sorghum taste by itself. I know it is a specialty grain and I know some foods have it in the labels. So I think it would probably be something close to special bread. Also it is gluten free beer, so that will make many happy. Let’s have a look and find out, cheers!

Aromas:
Faint Honey, herbs, piloncillo sugar hints and cane sugar.

Flavors:
Herbs, oregano, basil, chamomile, lavender, hibiscus flower, peppercorn, Sour grape hints, piloncillo sugar cone, lemon grass, lemon peel, limes, cane sugar, biscuit bread, tejuino Mexican Maize drink, salt, citrus, agave hints and stone fruit peach hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some slight herbal hints. No alcohol in the taste. Pale Golden clear body, crisp, very clean and refreshing mouth feel and easy to drink.

Overall:
An average but good beer. This is definitely unique in the sense that it tries to be somewhat complex but in the sense of the taste. It is very herbal and funky like. Not like a sour or a saison but more like bread and flowers. I think this could be a gateway brew for those that would like to step into the sour and funky farmhouse ales. It isn’t overpowering and yet it is light. This one is worth a try if you like herbal and funky brews. Also, a great alternative to regular beer as it is Gluten Free.

Anime Corner:
Mileena from Mortal Kombat was used in this beer pairing as I was looking for something in regards to the name sun eater. For those that know who she is under the mask, she has a big scary mouth. In the picture she is next to what looks like the sun. so take it to the imagination with what I have given you. She can eat the sun!

Sources:
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Mileena-Mortal-Kombat-9-mk9-Игровой-арт-1187775.jpeg

2016 Judgment Day Ale by The Lost Abbey

October 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 4 horsemen of the apocalypse, Apocalypse, Armaggedon, Belgian Quadrupel, end of times, Judgement Day Ale, Judgment Day, Judgment Day Ale, Kos-MOS, Lost Abbey, Raisins, The Lost Abbey, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Judgment Day Ale by The Lost Abbey is a 10.5% ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with Raisins.

Label:
Do you believe there would be a Judgment Day? Have you ever thought about what you’ll be doing when the Four Horsemen arrive? Perhaps you’ll be drinking this Belgian Dark Quad Styled Ale when they appear? However, since we have no idea when our time will expire or when we’ll be forced to cash in our tickets, we offer this simple advice. Live an inspired life. Find opportunities in everything to make a difference. Seek out new and spontaneous adventures and when you find them, embrace them as if they were the devil’s song. For an interesting life is one worth living. Challenge yourself to embrace passion, persistence and a motivated way of life. So that when Judgment Day arrives from nowhere, you’ll go out knowing full well that you’ve lived your life on your terms and they can’t take that away from you.

Commercial Description (Lostabbey.com)
A massive beer in every sense of the word. A stronger and more contemplative version of our Lost and Found Ale. Judgment Day is the base beer for our Cuvee de Tomme. Many of the Trappist Breweries produce a version of beer which ages incredibly well for many years to come. And, since none of us knows when the end of the world is coming, we suggest you stock up with lots of Lost Abbey beers so that when the end of the world magically appears from nowhere, you’ll have a beer or two on hand for even the stingiest of angels. Available in 750ml bottles and on draft at select inspired locations. The Judgment Day story

The story has been told and we have been warned about this very moment- Judgment Day and the end of the world as we cease to know it. There will be but one instance where the sunny blue pastoral skies turn sickly black revealing the imminent demise of every soul caught between heaven and hell. From the skies the angels of heaven will race to rescue the virtuous souls before the thundering herd of the 4 Horsemen arrive from the depths of hell to claim more than their fair share. Each of us will ride a wave of terror or relief not knowing from which lot our souls have been cast. It is wholly possible that the Sinners and Saints alike will unite. For sure, each will thrash about in the tumultuous sea of uncertainty not knowing in this abyss whether they bear the mark of the Father or the mark of the Beast himself. There will be a litany of screams from the departing souls riding bareback on the shoulders of the Black Horse. Each of us will be examined and our lives will be scrutinized. It is decreed and so written. Life as we know it will one day cease to exist. Surely you will stand there having all your questions answered.

==Introduction==

The very first Quadrupel I have ever had in my life is essentially one of the beers in the world close to my heart along with the St. Bernardus 12abt that really started everything for me back in 2010. This beer being one of my top 10 while being very common is one that really got craving it ever since I saw it at Bevmo when I visited my friend Adrian in West Covina so many years ago. I had no idea what the hell craft beer was and back then the only thing I really knew in terms of craft beer was New Belgium Fat Tire. The stunning artwork was what really brought me in to the world of craft beer. Coming from an anime background, I really had a strong appreciation for different types of artworks that moved into the label appreciation to eventual taste and art comparison to what you know today as the beer and art pairings and ultimately, my own homebrewing and brewing ideas for recipes. Today I pay tribute to those amazing days and this beer that really lead me to an awesome appreciation for something I consider very mystical, perplexing, awe inspiring and really, the lost treasures of taste and art. TO my favorite style of beer, I salute you. To my fans, I say raise a glass, cheers for many beer years!!

Aromas:
Very rich dark fruit raisins, plums figs, fates, prunes, currants black berries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, marshmallow, anise, molasses, flan, phenolics, stone fruit peach, plums, slight mango, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, pan dulce, fruit cake, fruit cake, agave, bananas, clove spice and piloncillo sugar cone.

Flavors:
Super duper rich dark raisins, prunes, black berries, currants, dark cherries, raspberries, figs, dates, Belgian candi sugar, rock candy, chocolate cherry cordials, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, pan dulce, fruit cake, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, brown sugar, fruit cake, agave, bananas, clove spice, anise, molasses, flan, phenolics, stone fruit peach, plums, slight mango, dulce de leche caramel, piloncillo sugar cone, toasted rye bread, wine grapes, port wine hints, Chambord raspberry liqueur, marshmallows, chocolate waffle cone, pecan pie , hazelnut nectar, walnut pie, almond joy chocolate and hints of rocky road ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich flavors of dark fruit, bananas, clove spice, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, anise, molasses, flan, raisins bread pudding, fruit cake, brown sugar and cherry cordials. No alcohol in the taste, dark crimson ruby clear to medium body, smooth, creamy, syrupy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally delicious!! There is always a reason to go back to one’s roots. Despite having tried better quadrupels and world class beers, there is no denying that the beers that started it all which, for most part, “common beers”, are the ones that will always be the best and hold a special place. For being the first quad I tried in 2010, this one is world class to me. So much dark fruit and dark candi sugar forward. Many quadrupels have different appealing characteristics. St. Bernardus is a Dulce De Leche La Trappe Quad is Banana and caramel driven and Weyebacher Blasphemy is pecan pie driven. These are just examples of great quads I have loved and each one delicious and unique in their own ways. I highly recommend this one to all!

Anime Corner:
KOS-MOS from Xenosaga was brought once again since I had used her to pair with the first time I did an anime beer review pairing of the Judgment Day ale. She is one of my favorite characters so since I chose her the last time I choose her again. The reason I chose her has to do with Xenosaga in general. If the coming for the 4 horseman of the apocalypse also involves the return of Jesus, then it fits perfectly. Xenosaga has many themes of the Christian religion and bible references. Heck, KOS-MOS is essentially supposed to be a vessel for the return of Mary Magdalene, Jesus wife in some scriptures. Although, KOS-MOS ends up being her own individual as we find out near the end of the trilogy that Mary Magdalene is separate from KOS-MOS. Regardless, her ties to Christianity is one of the main reasons I chose her for this pairing.

Sources:
http://orig03.deviantart.net/4364/f/2011/247/1/1/11b1ace5857fa4a466e0fd321bd9eb5c-d48t9r6.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/KOS-MOS.full.34385.jpg
http://i939.photobucket.com/albums/ad240/moke1200/46/dr035_zps02144e2f.jpg

Stone Enjoy by 10.31.16 (Halloween Edition) Tangerine IPA by Stone Brewing

October 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Darkstalkers, Halloween, india pale ale, IPA, Morrigan, Morrigan Aensland, Stone Brewing, Stone Enjoy By, Stone Enjoy By 10.31.2016, Tangerine IPA, Tangerines, Vampire Hunter, Vampire Savior | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.3/6

Stone Enjoy by 10.31.16 (Halloween Edition) Tangerine IPA by Stone Brewing is a 9.4% ABV Imperial India Pale Ale brewed with Tangerines.

Label:
Our all-important, hop-driven quest to deliver the most devastatingly fresh IPA on the planet facilitated a paradigm shift in 2012 with the launch of Stone Enjoy By IPA. Not only did we brew this beer with more than 10 different hops, we brewed it specifically NOT to last. Acclaimed for its groundbreakingly short shelf life, this intense double IPA brought forth a whole new concept of what constitutes “fresh”—guaranteeing fans the ultimate level of hoppiness. For Stone Enjoy By Tangerine IPA, we added the tangy zeal of a mandarin fruit’s juicy nectar. The result…freshness has never tasted as ripe for the picking as this does right now.

==Introduction==
Since I reviewed this beer earlier this year, I will leave the link to that review here (https://animebeers.com/2016/05/20/stone-enjoy-by-05-30-2016-tangerine-ipa-by-stone-brewing/). The reason I brought the beer back is simply due to the Halloween themed label and the date ofcourse. However, it also gave me a chance to use Morrigan in some Halloween Attire. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Morrigan Aensland from Dark Stalkers was used in the original Enjoy By pairings long ago since she stands atop a stone gargoyle representing the Stone brewery. For Halloween and the return of the beer I had this May, I chose her in more of a Halloween theme art pairing. I also wanted to have the Tangerine be represented by Morrigan’s Kimono with the flower like in the original Tangerine release of this brew.

Sources:
http://blog-imgs-47.fc2.com/s/e/i/seiroganmania/20110428115250656502.jpg
http://67.media.tumblr.com/cdac728cbf604e821b9a5541e349bdbd/tumblr_ocnfuqeMLo1rnroato1_1280.jpg
http://pre03.deviantart.net/0691/th/pre/f/2012/241/f/9/morrigan_aensland_by_light_rock-d5cvurc.png

Crackberry by Bishop Cider Company

October 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bishop Cider Company, black berries, Cammy White, Crackberry, cranberries, hard apple cider, Scottish Army, Scottish Independence, Street Fighter, William Wallace | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Crackberry by Bishop Cider Company is a 6% ABV Hard Apple Cider made with Cranberries and Black Berries.

Label:
Just one sip and you’re hooked

Stripped of all other nonsense

Crackberry is a perfect pairing of flavors tart and sweet, joining forces to create a colorful, well-balanced cider. Frankly, we’re over the moon for it.

You probably remember William Wallace as the fearless Knight who bared it all in the name of Scottish Independence. Ultimately, He failed to save his own skin. But he did successfully lead the rebellion against England.

That’s worthy another round no?

==Introduction==

Fuck yeah! A cider from Texas! Special thanks to my friend and fellow beer review brother, Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com for sending this one my way. I think this is the first cider I try from Texas. One with a combination of berry definitely sounds awesome and at 6% ABV, I can only assume it will be very refreshing. Bishop Cider makes ciders with no artificial flavors as shown on the site and the label. Pure apples and fruits. So I definitely can enjoy this one. Let’s see how it goes, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruit berries, cherries, cranberries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, passion fruit hints, dragon fruit hints, stone fruit peach hints, sweet grapes, white grapes, vanilla, apples and sangria.

Flavors:
Rich cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, cherries, grapes, lychee fruit, apples, caramel, candied apples, raspberry yogurt, Fruit punch, Kool-aid hints, Concorde grape skins, chardonnay, white wine, white grapes, passion fruit tartness, dragon fruit, sangria, stone fruit peach and apricot.

Aftertaste:
Finishes sweet and semi dry with lingering fruit punch and mixed berries and apple flavors. No alcohol in the taste, ruby red clear body, crisp, refreshing and clean mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Supremely deliciously perfect cider. No flavor too stronger than the other and yet quite the little complex drink and very balanced. One thing that is dead on is that this major fruit punch to the face. It is crazy how the flavors can be distinct and complex with this one. Some ciders don’t get too complex when it comes to flavors but this one is very well made. There is a lot of love put in this one. I highly recommend it if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Cammy White from Street Fighter was used in this pairing as I wanted to get a character that was close to the colors of the beer label and William Wallace. Cammy fit the bill well since she is from the United Kingdom and she has all the colors. Also with the Mooning of the Scottish Army she fits even more since she is always displaying her rump. She also has war paint as well so that goes well with the William Wallace war paint.

Sources:
http://orig01.deviantart.net/3027/f/2016/232/5/f/cammy___street_fighter_v_by_scrappy195-daempvr.jpg
http://static1.comicvine.com/uploads/scale_large/14/147508/5213444-cammy+(2).jpg
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/Cammy-White-Street-Fighter-Игры-Zakusi-3171368.jpeg
http://i.imgur.com/TyKLFq6.jpg