Rating: 5/5
Rating: 5/5
Sublime Mexican Lager by AleSmith Brewing Company is a 5.2% ABV Mexican Lager
Description:
In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of Sublime’s release of their iconic album “40oz. to Freedom”, Sublime contacted AleSmith Brewing Co. to craft this unique brew. Sublime Mexican Lager is a thirst-quenching, 5.2% ABV twist on a traditional Vienna-style lager highlighted by a grainy, malt-forward sweetness and easy drinkability. It’s clean, crisp and balanced with a smooth finish. Cheers!
Smooth, super refreshing and summer time goodness!
I don’t practice Santeria, I don’t got no crystal ball… I had a 6 pack of this and….I drank it all 
😂
🤣😂
Rating: 5/5
Speedway Stout by Alesmith is a 12% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with coffee.
While I have reviewed this beer in the past, I wanted to bring the dark wheel Rim looking can which fits perfectly with the whole racing aspect. Check out my old review here.
https://animebeers.com/2013/04/19/speedway-stout-by-alesmith/
Rating: 5/5
Decadence 2016 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith is a 9.5% ABV Imperial California Common Ale.
Label:
AleSmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Eleven years into this series, we proudly present our latest anniversary ale, an imperial California Common inspired by the historic “steam beers” originating from the northern-coastal expanses of our home state. This high-gravity take on a Golden State classic is fermented using lager yeast kept at temperatures typically utilized in ale-brewing, resulting in a crisp yet substantial ale-lager hybrid packed with wood-like accents reminiscent of NorCal pine trees thanks to the addition of Northern Brewer hops. Savor it now or age and enjoy later, on its own or along with other vintages of Decadence Anniversary Ale.
==Introduction==
Another year for Alesmith has come. Since the beginning, starting with the Horny Devil Belgian Pale Ale, I have loved their many releases. Even until the day I finally got a chance to visit the brewery itself, I have been a major fan. Alesmith seems to take common beers and take them to another level of delicious. Some being full flavored and high ABV while other brews even more complex. I have yet to have a bad Alesmith brew and now that they have reached their 21st year in business, I hope they keep going and make more great beers. Let’s take a look at this one, cheers!
Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, blueberry hints, cherries, vanilla, oak, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, banana hints, clove spice sweetened condensed milk, stone fruit peach, mild apricot, pears, toasted barley, rye bread, citrus, old mango, dragon fruit, hazelnut, peanut brittle, brown sugar, fruit cake, waffle cone, Danish cream, toasted bread with blueberry preserves, orange preserves, butterscotch and tangerine notes.
Flavors:
Super rich toffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, English figgy pudding, dark fruit raisins, blueberry hints, cherries, trail mix, honey, Danish cream, toasted bread with blueberry preserves, orange preserves, butterscotch, tangerine notes, Stone fruit peach, mild apricot, pears, toasted barley, rye bread, citrus, old mango, dragon fruit, hazelnut, peanut brittle, brown sugar, fruit cake, waffle cone, macadamia nuts, flan notes, pecan pie, banana hints, clove spice sweetened condensed milk and grape notes.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with flavors of caramel, dark fruit, port wine hint, earthy notes, waffle cone, honey, vanilla and fig pudding. No alcohol in the taste, copper and crimson light body, creamy, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouth feel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A perfect California Common and one that I think is the best. This brew definitely borderlines a barleywine as the richness and alcohol content give it the similar flavors with the difference being this is brewed with a lager yeast. I have not had an imperial California Common but just like the other beers in the Decadence series, each one is unique and very delicious in its own way. If you love barleywines and California commons, I would highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Inoue Orihime from Bleach was used in this pairing to go with the amber color of the California Common but also the West Coast. This is represented by her being in a bikini in the different pictures and in the water on the beach. The different aspects of what people think when it comes to California.
Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/189471-2800×2006-bleach-studio+pierrot-inoue+orihime-persona92+%28orichie%29-single-highres.jpg
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Inoue-s-day-135597383
http://orichie.deviantart.com/art/Orihime-470623586?q=gallery%3Aorichie%2F50441087&qo=2
Rating: 7/7
Mexican Speedway Stout by Alesmith brewing is a 12% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Mexican Coffee, Chocolate and Cinnamon aged in Tequila Barrels.
Label:
==Introduction==
Alesmith has been releasing many great beers over the years and many great variants of their speedway stout ranging from Kopi Luwak coffee, Jamaican Coffee, special spirits and even collaborations. This year, they released something that immediately hit me. The Mexican Speedway Stout aged with the uncommon liquor for aging, Tequila. Tequila barrel aged beers are pretty uncommon unlike Bourbon. The inspiration of that aging process is what inspired me to make my Belgian Quadrupel aged in Oak Tequila. So basically, whenever I hear of great beers made Tequila, I go out of my way to try and get them even if I have to trade. The firs Tequila barrel aged beer was a Barley wine made from Cucapa brewing in Mexicali, Mexico. Since then I have not found that one beer again and definitely made it a form of a mission to try and find those brews that are Tequila aged. I never would of thought Alesmith would release one especially one done similarly to the Xocoveza from Stone. Let’s see how this one goes, cheers!
Aromas:
Cafe Con Leche, Roasted coffee notes, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, blackberries, Jaliscan Jerricalla, burnt sugar, pilloncillo sugar cone, Tequila, Mezcal, agave lechugilla nectar, oak, flan, crème brulee, 3 leche/ 3 Milks cake, coffee cake, mocha, java, steamed milk, milk sugar, marshmallows, toasted coconut, rocky road ice crea, dulce de leche, dulce de cabra envinada/ goat milk caramel, cajeta caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate mousse, bakers chocolate, chocolate abuelita, German Chocolate, Belgian Cholate, mole, almonds, Marzipan, Danish cream and bananas.
Flavors:
Cafe Con Leche, fancy coffee, roasted coffee notes, mocha, java, steamed milk, milk sugar, marshmallows, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate mousse, bakers chocolate, chocolate abuelita, German Chocolate, Belgian Cholate, mole, cinnamon, cajeta caramel, dulce de leche, dulce de cabra envinada/ goat milk caramel in wine hints, flan, crème brulee, 3 leche/ 3 Milks cake, Jaliscan Jerricalla, burnt sugar, pilloncillo sugar cone, Tequila, Mezcal, agave lechugilla nectar, oak, Kahlua liqueur, dark fruit raisins, figs, prunes, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, molasses, anise, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, campfire smokey hints, Danish cream, Irish cream, Marzipan, fruit cake, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Champurrado, bananas, clove spice, churros, ginger bread and Lechera sweetened condensed milk.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich notes of chocolate abuelita, Kahlua liquer, cinnamon, tequila oak, agave, dark fruit, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, flan, toasted coconut, earthy notes and hazelnut. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, pitch black abyss body, creamy, velvety, silky, syrupy, chewy and viscous mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.
Overall:
No doubt, a bucket lister. It’s like they took Xocoveza, Mole Ocho and Tequila Sombrero to a whole new level. The influence of the might that is Speedway Stout just works with it providing a diversly rich array of coffee, chocolate and sweet Mexican Tequila flavor. You kind of just lose yourself in its greatness. Speedway Stout has come out in so many great variants that this on sits right up there with Alesmith’s best. It sure is a beer that is a must get for fans of the Mexican Stouts and especially, Tequila Barrel aged beers.
Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach was used in this pairing because she is one of my 4 favorite girls and I had remembered I did a special edit to a picture of hers for the World Cup back in 2006. What a surprise that 10 years later, it would make the perfect for this new beer to go with the Mexican Flag. Aside from the Jersey pairing well, Yoruichi has obtained 2 new powerful forms in the manga and now that I present her in a beer pairing, especially one of this caliber, I wanted to pair with those super forms. The Goddess of Thunder Yoruichi, though you be a cat, how you complement the Aztec Goddess Tlaloc who is Quetzalcoatl’s part ally in the skies almost resembling a dragon as well. Yup, Yoruichi is one bad ass character.
Sources:
http://arteemis.deviantart.com/art/God-Of-Thunder-590320394
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/Shihouin-Yoruichi-Bleach-Anime-nanao-(mahaya)-3070867.jpeg
Rating: 5/5
Decadence 2015 Anniversary Ale by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Belgian Strong Red/Amber.
Label:
AleSmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Each year since, our brewers had commemorated our anniversary with a special beer of a new style. Now Ten Years after brewing our first beer of the Decadence series, We’re proud to present another hand-forged addition, Alesmith Decadence 2015.
In the spirit of traditional Belgian brewing we’ve departed from style-constraints to bring you a fresh take on the popular European style, the Belgian Amber. This big, complex, amber-hued ale was brewed with a substantial amount of Belgian and European malts that complement the spiciness imparted by Belgian abbey yeast. The result is a perfect balance between rich, toasty maltiness, Belgian Candi sugar and the light, floral profile of European hops. Enjoy this hearty Belgian-inspired brew now or age at a cool temperature to increase its complexities.
==Introduction==
Happy 20th Anniversary to Alesmith and many years to come. Whenever I think of beers that are like The Bruery or Cigar City, you know, really rich in flavor profile, I think of of of San Diego’s finest. Alesmith is one of the faves in San Diego among Stone, Lost Abbey, Belching Beaver and others. Alesmith has been grown little by little and will surely be something more some day. They already distribute to many places. I think one of the reasons they are awesome because they can take styles of beer to higher heights (and in some cases, higher alcohol) than others. So this time, they rolled out a Belgian Amber. The last time I tried this style was with the Ommegang Game of Thrones beer which was very good. However, let’s really look at this one and see how it compares or if it surpasses. I don’t know! Either way, Cheers!!
Aromas:
Rye bread, clove spice, banana hints, biscuit bread, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit figs, raisins, raspberries, cherries, Dulce de leche caramel, peppercorn, peanut butter hints, pecan pie, floral notes, waffle cone, vanilla, Danish cream brown sugar, cinnamon, flan hints dragon fruit and old oranges.
Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Bananas, clove spice, rye bread, biscuit bread, dark fruit figs, raisins, raspberries, cherries, peppercorn, stone fruit peaches, apricots, toffee, apples, honey, pecan pie, floral hop notes, waffle cone, vanilla, Danish cream, brown sugar, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon hints, marzipan, flan hints, butterscotch, old oranges, peanut butter hints, dragonfruit and mango hints.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit, stone fruit, earthy notes,vanilla, rye bread, peanut butter hints and orange candy zest finish. No alcohol in the taste, ruby red crimson light to hazy body, silky, creamy, chewy mouthfeel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A Perfect Amber that is so damn rich with lots of the rich Belgian flavors that I like plus so much more. Reminding me of the Ommegang Game of Thrones as I thought but this one is way more rich. So many of the flavors are amplified more and are more complex. Maybe not up to the Flanders styles but damn, this is very Belgian-inspired. I think if you love Belgians, make sure to give this a shot. Might be the best Belgian Red I have ever had!
Anime Corner:
Ignis from Jingai Makyo was used in this pairing since I wanted to get a powerful red girl to pair with the red Belgian. Ignis complements the beer in the color, the style, the alcohol and so many other things. I am not sure if the the Rooster and The Lion represent something related to Iginis but in a way it does. Red like the roosters crest and brave like the lion. Holy shit, I think Alesmith really had something magical going on with this beers. Awesome stuff!!
Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Ignis.(Jingai.Makyo).full.891901.jpg
http://www.interbutt.org/plog-content/images/sfwmaybe/wallpapers/minitokyo.anime.wallpapers.jingai.makyo_192130.jpg
Rating: 5/5
Irie Pirate Ale / IPA by Alesmith is a 7.25% ABV World Class India Pale Ale.
Label:
It’s Pretty Awesome. A San Diego classic, AleSmith IPA showcases the versatility of American hops. Aromas of grapefruit and tangerine lead into an abundance of fresh pine and tropical fruit notes followed by a crisp, resinous bitterness. The complex hop profile is supported by a firm malt presence to create an incredibly flavorful and well-balanced IPA.
The beer’s citrus and pine notes pair well with fresh, aromatic herbs, citrus-based dressings, and Asian-inspired flavors. IPA’s refreezing bitterness and dry finish also help temper the heat of spicy foods and contrast the tangerines of farmhouse cheddars and spicy blues.
___
Alesmith IPA used to be called “Irie Pirate Ale” but they had to change the name due to some seize and desist letters. Here at brewerianimelogs.com, we love to pay tribute to the roots of beer and so I leave the title as such. This is also borderlining a double IPA too. It was about damn time I pick this one up. For one of the best breweries in the world and from San Diego, I should have at least had their IPA right? Apparently not. Shame on me for that, especially since they make some of the best beers in the world. Well, I finally got a bottle to bring forth. Wherever you see this one, it is damn highly acclaimed for sure. So, I bring this to the site as it is a classic beer as so said. So here we go, one of San Diego’s finest and their IPA! Cheers!
Aromas:
Grapefruit, citrus, grassy, piney, hops, pineapple, caramel, tropical fruits like mango, honey dew melon, papaya, toffee, biscuit bread, caramel vanilla, cherries, plums, rye bread, brown sugar, kiwi and guava notes.
Flavors:
Citrus, tangerine, gummy bears, citrus, grassy, piney grapefruit hops, biscuit bread, lemon peel, tropical fruit like mango, papaya, honey dew melon, prickly pear, toffee, plums, cherries, vanilla, kiwi, herbal spices, dragon fruit, guava, dank garlicky, oniony notes, herbal notes and orange preserves.
Aftertaste:
No bitterness left over and yet the hoppy flavors flow like no ones business. Caramel, hops, tropical fruits citrus linger but nothing bitter. No alcohol in the taste, smooth easy to drink, clear body, light mouth feel, crisp and very refreshing.
Overall:
Perfect IPA example of awesome! There was no doubt about it but what makes this one a winner is the balance and smoothness right off the bat. Cold or warm (Colder I prefer) it keeps its own. It is insane and while it is just an IPA, it definitely competes with the Double IPAs without the boozyness in there. The crazy thing about this one is this will age but hops will die. So drink it fresh or drink it later, your choice, this one isn’t going anywhere. Highly Recommended!!
Anime Corner:
Kei Yuki from Captain Harlock series was used in this pairing to pretty much sum up everything that has to do with Alesmith IPA in terms of the color of the beer, label, flavors, history, legal issues and the very soul that is, Irie Pirate Ale. Basically, with the label, it is the colors of the pirate flag, the color of the beer is blonde like Kei and the pink suit is the cherry notes and her eyes show a complexity of honey dew while the long flowing hair is everything the IPA is about. The fact that she is a pirate and like all pirates disobey the law, she represents what this IPA used to stand for before the name change. While she is just Alesmith IPA, in heart and in her roots, she will always be the Irie Pirate Ale and those who dare mock the fact that she moves into Double IPA territory will be dealt with swiftly and justly!
Sources:
http://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/captain-harlock-pirate.jpg
http://gallery.minitokyo.net/view/310793
Rating: 4.5/5
Decadence 2014 Anniversary Wheat Wine Ale by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Blonde Barley/Wheat wine.
Label:
AleSmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Our brewers had such a great time creating it that they decided to brew a new style each year to commemorate our anniversary.
Now, nineteen years after we started, we’re proud to present another great addition this ongoing series, AleSmith Decadence 2014 is our interpretation of a Wheat Wine Style Ale. The generous amounts of wheat used in the his beer impart a bready aroma with hints of honey, ripe fruit, and a spicy graininess. In the finish, a pleasant malty sweetness from the wheat is balanced by the addition of German and American hops. Enjoy this special brew now or age it at a cool temperature for a truly rewarding experience.
___
Alesmith turns 19 and they release a wheat wine this year. Many of the past Decadence beers have been a different type of style each year. The last 2 years I have tried the anniversary beers they have been very awesome. This year is a wheat wine style. Not many breweries make this type of style. The Bruery makes one that is bourbon barrel aged and is a portion of the awesome White Chocolate. Alesmith is known for well above and beyond beers so I am curious to see how this one fares. Here’s to many more years in making really great beers, Cheers!
Aromas:
Vanilla, peppercorns, biscuit bread, rye, honey, stone fruits like peach, apricot, oranges, coriander spice, lemon peel, passion fruit, mango, vanilla and caramel.
Flavors:
Honey, grape, white raisins, biscuit bread, peppercorn, vanilla, caramel, toffee, stone fruit like peach apricot, orange peel, lemon peel, coriander spice, cinnamon, banana hints, melon, dragon fruit notes, pineapple, apples, marshmallow hints, graham crackers, brown sugar, floral hops, almonds and pecans.
Aftertaste:
Citrus, rye, biscuit bread, grape, clove and coriander spice as well as some earthy notes. Alcohol notes in the taste. Smooth drinkability despite the ABV, caramel to golden full body, medium mouthfeel.
Overall:
While this beer is very good, it is best drunk warmer to release more flavors. Despite the ABV, this one flows really well. I found myself liking this one but not as much as the previous versions Anniversary ones I have had from Alesmith mainly because it only starts to get more complex the warmer it gets so drinking it colder is not really the best thing to do. Then again it is the style too. This is a wheat wine at its prime with no alterations or aging. I would recommend a try or at least aging this one but some of the other Alesmith beers have definitely rocked harder for sure. This one is still very good though.
Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley Sohryu/Shikinami Neon Genesis Evangelion was chosen for this pairing since I wanted to show the color pairing of the beer and the way the beer flows. As you can see the beer sparkles like Asuka in the sun but be warned because the 10% creeps up behind you like the dark hands of the Eva as they try and embrace Asuka to a dark level of flavor. That and the fact that you really have to let it warm up to get the best experience.
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/MeXZjDK.jpg
Rating: 5.35/5
Wee Heavy by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Scoth Ale/Wee Heavy.
Label:
Great American Beer Festival 2008 “Small Brewing Company of the Year”
This Scottish-inspired deep mahogany colored ale showcases a rich, malty flavor profile of caramel and toffee offset by hints of roast and subtle smoke. The complex malty sweetness includes notes of dark fruit balanced by a subdued hop bitterness. Wee Heavy is incredible nuanced and in a class of its own in terms of balance and sophistication. It ages very well and will keep improving for years to come.
Wee Heavy’s complex malt profile lends itself very well to a host of roasted or grilled meat and vegetable dishes. Robust cheese, salty blues, and nutty farmhouse style cheeses also pair very well with this beer.
___
Been passing up this beer for ever and only really tried it when I have had it at the pubs or at restaurants. Hell, I did a review on the Barrel Aged version and had yet to review this one. So I definitely wanted to bring this one forward as Wee Heavy is a style I don’t often get chance to try and it really is a style I do love. You can find this one wherever they sell Alesmith and it is a year round release.
Aromas:
Lots of dark fruit currants, plums, prunes, boysenberries, black berries, grapes, rich caramel, smoked peat, licorice, anise, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, brown sugar, butterscotch, blueberry cheesecake hints and cinnamon.
Flavors:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, boysenberries, black berries, currants, figs, anise, grapes, molasses, scotch, toffee, dark pepper, butterscotch, earthy notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, blueberry cheesecake, cinnamon, smoked peat, chocolate mousse, brown sugar, licorice, banana notes and honey.
Aftertaste:
Raisins, butterscotch, earthy notes, blueberry cheesecake hints, smoked peat, toffee, caramel and currants. It is a medium sipping beer with a smooth quality to it. No alcohol in the taste and medium mouth feel.
Overall:
Exceeding expectations just a bit reminding me a bit of what Apophatic from Monkish was except the style is not a quad and more toward the Scottish ale. There are few and far between Wee Heavies and this one is pretty common so if you definitely want to see what a great example of the style is, go try this one out. Many of the Alesmith beers are epic and really, you can’t go wrong here. I’ve had this beer before in restaurants and I am glad I was able to give you my thoughts on it now.
Anime Corner:
Kula Diamond from the King of Fighters Series was used in this pairing since I used her in the Bourbon Barrel Aged version of this beer long ago. While she is quietly sitting in the barrel in the BBA version, she is free to unleash in this version. Her colors pair greatly with the colors of the beer label but also the variety of the dark berry flavors this style presents. She is not a Banshee, nor is Banshee only part of Irish tradition but of Scottish Gaelic myth as well where they call her, bean sìth or bean-nighe. Hell, even Mexico has one called La Llorona. Anyways, she has blue hair and is cold as ice like the Banshee which ties back to Irish and Scottish tradition and hence forth, the Wee Heavy style. Like I said though, she looks like a Banshee, but she is not one. In fact, Kula enjoy lots and lots of sweets, so just like this beer is full of sugary goodness, so is Kula. She is 10% but don’t try to take her on all at once, she is a very powerful fighter and will freeze you where you stand.
Rating: 5.75/5
Dairy Tank Collaboration by Eagle Rock Brewery and Ale Smith is a 10% ABV Imperial Milk/Sweet Stout
Label:
ALESMITH BREWING CO
Alesmith Brewing Co. opened in 1995 with the purpose of making great beer – in dairy tanks! Sever budget constraints and the homebrewers mentality of making due with the equipment at hand put us to the test. We made it work and will forever be indebted to the original dairy tanks that were used for out hot & col liquor, mash & lauter, fermenting and conditioning tanks.
Alesmith expanded in 2008 and bid farewell to the dairy tanks sending them to their new home at Eagle Rock Brewery. In deciding on our collaboration beer, we thought it would be fitting to utilize these tanks in brewing a stykle that employs lactose sugar derived from milk. The name of our collaboration Milk Stout. We Hope that you enjoy this tribute to our beloved dairy tanks!
Peter Zen, Owner Alesmith
====
EAGLE ROCK BREWERY BEER FOR THE PEOPLE.
In May 2008, as were planning the opening of Eagle Rock Brewery, Alesmith Brewing was upgrading their brewhouse and selling their old equipment. We had been a huge admirer of Alesmith long before this, so being able to star our brewery with equipment from one of our all-time favorite breweries, felt like a miracle.
Hailing from a family of dairy farmers it felt fitting that the brewing equipment we had just acquired was converted from old Dairy Tanks . As homebrewers, we’ve always had a sense of “do it yourself”engineering and having equipment that felt like a large-scale homebrewsetup made the transition from brewing 5 gallon batches to 500 gallon batches a LOT less daunting.
Jeremy Raub Co-Founder Eagle Rock Brewery
___
Beer made in Milk tanks for a milk stout. This beer was so coveted it sold out quicky. You can probably get this one online now since it is hard to come by. It has an enjoy by date of 7-16-2014, so definitely the fresher the better. Milk stouts are genius especially if done right. Let’s see how big this one is.
Aromas:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, sweet bakers chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bananas, mint chocolate, caramel, vanilla, lactose sugars, molasses, brown sugar, toffee, roasted barley, coffee notes, mocha, notes of hazelnut, cinnamon, nutmeg, pecans, marshmallows smores and mild coconut.
Flavors:
Milk, Sweet, dark and mink chocolate with bananas, caramel, vanilla, earthy hop notes, molasses, mocha, cinnamon, nutmeg, pecans, marshmallows, chocolate mousse, waffle cone, rocky road icecream, fudge brownies, mint chocolate chip ice cream notes, anise, mild coconut, pecan pie, dark fruits like cherries and raisins and lots of milk sugar.
Aftertaste:
Milk chocolate, bananas, dark fruit, earthy notes, lactose sugar and mocha linger for a bit. No alcohol in the taste, a damn big smoothness and easy to drink despite the ABV with a buttery, creamy and a bit syrupy mouth feel. This is damn well made.
Overall:
Damn, over the top! I definitely loved this one just as much as I did smog lifter. A crazy guilty pleasure driven beer. There is a reason this bottle of great potion sold out and it has to do with the fact that it was way too damn good. You still have until July to enjoy it as fresh as possible so whether you live in California and cannot find it or live elsewhere, definitely seek this one before it goes offline too. A great beer and makes me wish I had gotten more bottles.
Anime Corner:
Coffee Mascot Girl from Yukizirushi Coffee Milk and Satan from Nitroplus’ 7 deadly sins were used in this pairing to pair with the colors of the label, the aspect of milk in dairy tanks relating to cows and well, the overall flavors of the beer including the chocolate, milk sugars and coffee earthy notes. Satan loves Kittys so giving them their guilty pleasure is like me having this guilty pleasure for drinking this awesome beer. This beer can be dangerous since it is so damn delicious and smooth. Just like the sweet personality of Satan in the 7 deadly sins story. Drinking this beer is like drinking coffee and chocolate milk. It is damn perfect!
Rating: 5.2/5
2014 Old Numbskull by Alesmith brewing is an 11% ABV World Class Barleywine.
Label:
Caramel and toffee notes abound in this deep copper-colored American Barleywine Style Ale alongside toasted mail and a hint of ripe dark fruits. Old Numbskull showcases malt sweetness, intense American hops, and an aggressive bitterness. Extremely well-balanced, the full-bodied mouthfeel and assertive hop profile leads into a deceptively smooth finish. Old Numbskull can be laid down for years to come.
This barleywine ale absolutely loves food. Its Rich sweetness pairs particularly well with roasted meats, braises, and stews or a bold, decadent such as sausages, pate, and a variety of pungent cheeses.
___
Another Alemisth I had yet to review. I was able to get this one as it is in the season for the offering at Ramirez Liquor in Los Angeles California. You can also find this one wherever they sell Alesmith beers. It is a common beer around here and yet, this is the first time I have it.
Aromas:
Toffee, caramel, piney, earthy, herbal and grapefruit hops, raisins, figs, brown sugar, butterscotch, old mangoes, apples, stone fruit, biscuit bread, cinnamon, hints of oak, old oranges.
Flavors:
Earthy, piney and grapefruit hops, rich caramel, pecan pie, rich toffee, biscuit bread, apples, dried apricot, tangerine marmalade on rye bread, cherries, cinnamon, mango, oak hints, papaya, coriander spice and honey.
Aftertaste:
Close to dry but some caramel, toffee, rye, earthy and piney hopes with a bit of grapefruit. No alcohol in the taste, smooth yet a sipping beer. That is the dangerous part because at 11% ABV, you just wanna keep going. Take it easy though.
Overall:
Definitely exceed expectations quite a bit. A mix of an English Barleywine clashing with the American styles to create, well, a Numbskull. That’s what happens when you class these 2 beers together. There this aspect about this beer that invites you to feel the hops but nothing that overwhelms as it slowly eases you into the zone of sweet caramel dessert beer goodness. A good amount of hops but nothing overwhelming and just sits right. It is not as awesome as the Grand Cru or the Old Ale but this is one of those Barleywines that just sits very well. Highly recommended for sure.
Anime Corner:
Original fly girl artwork and Jedah from Darkstalkers was used in this pairing mainly for the numbskull name and the label colors. The numbskull aspect as you may tell, has to do with the little skull on he fly girl’s head as well as the Jedah looking like she forgot something or something is not quite right. Also the fact that the fly girl is drinking a wine and well as the description says, old numbskull loves food, then it very well fits as all flies love food and love sugar and well, this beer is so good that even some of the flies want some too. Evil flies though >.>. So watch out
Rating: 6/5*
Bourbon Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout by Alesmith is a 12%ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Kopi Luwak Coffee beans and aged in Bourbon Barrels
Label:
Kopi Luwak is one of the world’s most expensive and rare coffee varieties. The beans are specifically selected for their ripeness and quality by the Civet, a small jungle marsupial that feeds off the fruit of the coffee cherry. They are then gathered by humans from the jungle floors of Indonesia, throughly cleaned, and sun-dried. A precise roasting by San Diego’s Ryan Bros. Coffee leads to extremely aromatic and exceptionally smooth final product that complements this barrel-aged imperial stout amazingly well. Good to the last dropping!
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So there you have it, to put it bluntly, it is basically an already world class stout made with coffee beans that have been pooped out by the Civet cat and then barrel aged the whole thing. Considering this was hard to get, the price of a cup of just the coffee by itself would put the price of this beer to shame. Yet, the flavors are most likely very unique to even the coffee by itself that the palette understanding of the complexity would cause a tongue would send signals to the brain causing a mind blow division by zero. Even if the concept of Civet poop coffee sounds disgusting, one must have an open mind. This is really clean beer too. Anyway, enough of that, on with the review
Aromas:
Straight out of the bottle, uniquely rich pecan pie, bakers chocolate, really fancy coffee, hazelnut, Irish cream, dark fruit, a type of boozyness that smells like cantaloupe, dark and milk chocolate, flan, mocha, java, espresso, Kahlua, dark cherries, floral notes, oak, vanilla, bourbon, coconut, bananas, rocky road ice cream notes
Flavors:
Chocolate covered cherries, really fancy coffee, Kahlua, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, rich java, mocha, earthly bitter notes, flan notes, bananas, vanilla, caramel, marshmallows, bourbon, oak, floral notes, Irish cream notes, dark fruits, bakers chocolate, dark chocolate syrup, roasted coffee beans, black berries, herbal spicy notes, rum notes, oatmeal, chocolate chip cookies and more flavors I cant make out.
Aftertaste:
Finishing off with layer of roasted fancy coffee, minor earthy possibly off flavor (LOL could be the poop ;)), caramel, chocolate, dark fruit, berries, bourbon, herbal cherry and spices as well as some bourbon. A big sipper with the booziness not detracting from the rich complex but more like it plays well
Overall:
*Bar none, the best coffee imperial stout ever!! I have tried the Mikkeller Beer Geek Weasel Cognac and this one beats it big time. Who knew Civet poop bean coffee could be so good. One of the reasons why this coffee is so great is because the process or digesting these beans causes the impurities and bitterness of coffee to be removed leaving beans that are more appealing, except for the poop part ofcourse.. That gets cleaned off thoroughly (I hope O_O). Definitely world class adding another depth of character that is hard to describe even with the barrel aging part itself for sure. Lots of extra credits here.
Anime Corner:
Blake Belladonna from RWBY is one of the main characters from the show with a reserved and sometimes antisocial personality. She carries a lot of burden on her shoulders rom her past. She is a Faunus, which are humanoid people with some animal traits. In the show, people may be prejudice against the Fauni as they consider them thieves. While Blake is a good person, she believes the people may be misunderstood seeing how the actions of some of the bad Fauni may give the overall race a bad rap. This part of her history can reflect the cruelty from some of the people who may abuse the Civets they harvest the coffee beans from. It is wrong to abuse some of the animals, but I am hopeful that the beer this was made from did not abuse any of those animals. While fighting, Blake is perceived almost like a ninja, a fast paced ninja. In relation to this beer, she is black like a stout, fast enough to meet the name “speedway stout”. She looks like a black cat which some Civets, even though marsupials, kind look like cats. The red background in the pictures is used to explain some of those dark berry flavors. The bourbon is in her eyes which have seen many things but remain strong and determined.
In the last 2 pictures, Symphony City Kitty by petite-emi.deviantart.com I used to represent the Civet. In weird sort of way I sort of artistic way, I saw this picture as the Civet releasing the berries. The blue background of the Civet may represent the astonishment of the delicious flavors from the coffee beans, either that or the Bullshit of humanity represented by the cities that a small portion of places actually don’t obey animal rights. I really hope the coffee beans picked for this beer were harvested in respect to these creatures. Which leads to the last piece of work where Symphony flicks the cigarette to represent disgust at animal abuse, but also looking very classy as in saying “here is your fancy coffee made from my poop, while I stand here looking classy and awesome, you sick bastards!!”
Anyways, if you can see any more artfulness in these pieces let me know. While I am against animal abuse, I really hope they harvested these beans with respecting the animals. Otherwise, I’d definitely feel like a hypocritical bastard for drinking this. It is an extremely good beer though. I do Thank you Civets of the world.
Rating: 4.56/5
Dubbel Dare (Dubbel Coast) collaboration between Cigar City and Alesmith is an 8.5% ABV Belgian Dubbel
Label:
COLLAB
A tropical interpretation of a Belgian-Style Dubbel, Dubbel Dare is a collaboration created by AleSmith Brewing company and Cigar City Brewing. Keeping their local environments in mind, this dubbel was crafted implementing Coconut Palm Sugar instead of Candi Sugar. Coconut Palm Sugar adds caramel notes to the already complex malt flavor and has lower glycemic index than other simple sugars.
Deglet Noor dates and Black Mission Figs were added during active fermentation, adding another complementing sweetness to the grist bill and tying in beautifully with the spice & fruit aromas and flavors provided by fermentation with a traditional Abbey yeast strain.
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Inspired by the late 80’s / early 90’s TV game show, Double Dare, this beer was brewed as a throwback honor to the challenge of creating a beer that was both a Belgian Dubble yet tropical.
Aromas:
A mix of dark fruit and tropical fruits, rich caramel, pineapple, raisins, figs, dates, plums, mango, flan, peppercorns, apricot, coriander spice, nutmeg, cinnamon notes, chocolate hints, slight coconut, brown sugar, pecan pie, fruit cake and brown sugar
Flavors:
Nutmeg, caramel, pineapple, mango notes, pineapple notes, apricot, peach, raisins, figs, dates, plums, flan, orange slices, coriander, pecan pie notes, mild coconut sugars, coconut hints, kiwi, strawberry notes, biscuit bread, banana notes, clove spice, chocolate, peppery spice notes, cinnamon and hints of fruit cake
Aftertaste:
The flavors of caramel, tropics, dark fruit, pecan pie and nutmeg linger. Moderate to sipping drinkability. Hidden alcohol as well
Overall:
It is a very good beer, but not a super duper dubbel. While it meets the challenge of diversity and tropics, it still not the best dubbel ever. Very good dubbel never the less and if you love Belgian Dubbels still up there with some of the greats. I would recommend a try from it but you may find others to be more inciting.
Anime Corner:
In this set of anime pairings, I have brought back Shiro and the gang from Deadman Wonderland into the mix. The relation to the beer has mainly to do with the whole aspect of audience entertainment and game shows. You see, Deadman Wonderland is a show about part of Japan being sunk into the ocean due to an earthquake and the main character, Ganta Igarashi, trying to save his hide as a prisoner by participating in prisoner games to gather points to save himself from a crime he did not commit. The whole setup earns money from the audience who watch inmates struggle through these twisted theme park games all for the purpose of rebuilding the cities. Shiro, the albino chick is Ganta’s child hood friend who helps him out. They find out that their blood posses some type of special power which helps them out through the ordeals. If we were to set who is who, Ganta is Cigar City and Shiro is Alesmith. These two are fighting the challenge which is Deadman Wonderland or Dubbel Dare to bring forth and awesome brew. The Red of the label represents the blood of their struggle. The artworks also fits with the beers as it shows Shiro eats a tropical dessert but also the fact that the beer uses coconut palm sugars. Sweet White sugar is a representative of Shiro, the albino girl as well as coconut being white on the inside. What other things can you find in this beer pairing?
Rating: 5/5
Decadence 2013 Anniversary Lager by Alesmith is a 10% ABV German Doppelbock Lager
Label:
AleSmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Our brewers had such a great time creating it that they decided to brew a new style each year to commemorate our anniversary.
Now in our eighteenth year, we bring you yet another addition to this legendary series. AleSmith Decadence 2013 is a classic German-style Doppelbock that follows the ancient brewing tradition of Bavarian monks. Originally called “Liquid Bread,” this style is characterized by a rich malt backbone that showcases notes of bread crusts and subtle hints of chocolate . A German lager yeast balances these flavors with a clean, full-bodied finish. Drink this meal in a glass now or cellar it for years to come.
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Another glorious year for Alesmith and their over the top great ales. Cheers to you guys!! There has not been any review that I have had from them that has been bad. Everything I have had so far is either great or exceptionally exceeding expectations. Now to their 18th anniversary they release the German Doppelbock. A style of dark German beer which already, I have yet to get a bad review from. This style is simply remarkable. Now made by Alesmith? Well, we shall see
Aromas to start give a very nice toffee, caramel, biscuit, dark fruit raisins, banana, clove spice, figs, earthy notes, chocolate, rye bread, blackberry marmalade hints and hazelnut.
The flavors are very rich in toffee, dark raisins, cherries, plums, dulce de leche caramel, dates, figs, bananas, clove spice, rye bread, hazelnut, chocolate notes, boysenberry marmalade, cinnamon, gingerbread, fruit cake, apricots, earthy bitterness, pecans, grapes, anise and molasses.
The aftertaste is fruity, nutty and minor spicy. Almost like trail mix in a bottle, without the salt. Where is the Alcohol? Wow this is drinkable for a 10% ABV. Holy shit smooth!!
Overall I was very impressed. This is a great beer. It is very close to the quadruple beer style. It’s supposed to be made as a lager but in the German style. This is very befitting of the season, you know, Oktoberfest and the Fall and what not. People have to get this, it is a must try. Especially since it taste like trail mix!. If I would drink this at Oktoberfest, I would definitely need to carried home as I would not be able to taste the alcohol and this would cause me to get drunk quick. I am still waiting to taste the alcohol and well, feel it, but I know it will creep up very soon here.
Rating: 5.2/5
Evil Dead Red by Alesmith brewing is a 6.66%ABV Amber/Red Ale. First limited bottle release.
Label:
Each Halloween we release this special concoction to celebrate one of our favorite holidays. Deep blood-red in color an intense aroma of pine and citrus from an abundance of American Hops balances the sweetness and rich, bready flavors of this bee’s caramel malts. The result is a fiendishly smooth brew that will make your taste buds scream with delight.
This beer pairs Excellent with Toffee, Caramel, Apples or your favorite Horror flick.
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After a long wait, 3 years to be exact, Alesmith finally releases their coveted Evil Dead Red Ale. I remember as far back as 2010 when the clerk at the local BevMo told my friend that they sold this in bottles but were out of stock, I remember looking it up only to find that it was never in stock. This is because it was never bottled until 2013. I remember its cousin the “My Bloody Valentine” and this is supposed to be way better. Well let’s see.
Aromas are of rich orange, grapefruit, pineapple, biscuit bread, caramel, piney and grassy hops, cherries, toffee, kiwi, strawberry, cinnamon, herbs, spice notes, earthy hops,nutmeg and raspberry candy notes
The flavors are herbs, spices, basil, oregano, caramel, grapefruit, orange, pineapple, grapefruit, apricot, strawberries, mango, pecans, honey, biscuit bread, toasted wheat bread, peanuts, cinnamon notes, rye bread, raspberries, walnuts, vanilla, butterscotch, kiwi dragon fruit, coconut, pecans, vanilla and toffee
The aftertaste is of caramel, herbal hops, citrus and nutty. The beer is perfectly balanced. Not to sweet not too bitter. Easy to moderate drinkability
Overall this is an awesome beer bringing forth some of the best flavors of what true ambers should be. Extremely delicious and extremely flavorful. Beeradvocate.com rates it 7th best in the world. In 2010, it used to be number one. Now that is is available more, it may turns those odds. This is very equivalent to the nugget nectar or pretty damn close to it.
Rating: 5.45/5
2013 British-Style Old Ale a.k.a 2005/2010 Decadence by Alesmith is an 11% ABV Old Ale
Label:
Great American Beer Festival 2008
“Small Brewing company of the year”
Old Ale Category Triumphs
Gold Medal Great American Beer Festival 2008
Gold Medal World Beer Cup 2008
Originally brewed in 2005 as the first in our annual Decadence series, AleSmith Old Ale follows the tradition of class British-style Old Ales. This rich, malt-forward ale showcases soft notes of currants and dried fruit along with complex dark sugars, all of which are balanced by a subtle bitterness derived from the addition of traditional English hops. AleSmith Old Ale is ready to be enjoyed now or it can be aged for upwards of twenty years to further enhance its amazing depth of flavor. A hearty ale designed to please Bacchus himself!
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They will be releasing this beer every season due to its popularity. I snagged a bottle as I was looking for beers at the store. I always have a hard time deciding what to pick. I like all the beers and certain styles. This is a style of beer that I do not often get to review but the style has always been very good.
Aromas started off with lots of raisins, cherries, caramel and walnut bread pudding. British beers like these always have forward malts. There is notes of toffee, brown sugar, butterscotch, vanilla, pecan pie, molasses, biscuit, black raspberry jam and some fruit cake
Flavors are of caramel, toffee, dark fruits like raisins, black berries, apples, pecan pie, walnuts bread pudding, raspberry jam, molasses, figs, vanilla, chocolate notes, anise, earthy hop hints, port wine notes, butterscotch, nutmeg, fruit cake, and brown sugar
The aftertaste finishes with like a raisin, caramel and anise taste with some port wine and earthy bitterness as it leaves completely. Good stuff, and the alcohol is well hidden. Amazing stuff, also, others say that the previous recipe was oxidized. There is no oxidation in this one at all, it’s just pure good beer.
This ale is meant for aging, so I am sure it will improve with time for sure. Even as fresh as it is right now, it is very delicious and I almost feel like I can definite drink more of this stuff. One of the best English styles ever.. Damn Alesmith is very good.
Rating: 5.35/5*
Grand Cru by Alesmith Brewing is a 10%ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale
Label:
25.4 fl. oz. – First place California State Fair. Grand Cru is a term designating excellence and is reserved for the finest offering from a brewery. AleSmith Grand Cru is brewed once per year in small batches for limited vintage release.
AleSmith Grand Cru is a complex, amber-colored, malty Belgian-style ale. It is brewed using only the finest imported malts, hops and candi sugar, along with an authentic yeast strain from a Belgian Trappist Monastery. Traditionally bottle-conditioned, the secondary fermentation occurring in the bottle gives this ale a natural effervescence.
Taste this truly Grand Cru and you’ll agree: AleSmith’s hand-forged ales are crafted to perfection. 10% alcohol by volume. Brewed & bottled by AleSmith Brewing Co., San Diego, CA.
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Been passing this one up for a quite a while. Alesmith makes really great beer but I never got around to try this one. No longer though. I was able to find this one to give it a try and do a review. Grand Cru is sometimes a complex type that doesn’t really fall into a particular style other than some type of Belgian beer that is really awesome. I’ve considered some of the Grand Crus I have tried in the best as very Epic, this one is no different. In fact, it rates outstanding to world class in some of the beer rating websites.
Aromas a complex conundrum of good stuff. Dark fruits like figs, raisins, plums, wine grapes, cherries, raspberries, Dulce de leche caramel on rye toast, dates, vanilla, somewhat bourbon vanilla character, chocolate, coconut, pecan and hazelnut pie, cloves, bananas in caramel, toffee, butterscotch, candi sugars, brown sugar, apples and apricots.
Flavors are simply phenomenal! Lots or dulce de leche caramel, pecan and hazel nut pie covered in vanilla cream, chocolate Almond Joy with coconut, figs, raisins, plums, slight wine grape notes, dark cherries, raspberries, dates, caramel covered bananas, toffee, biscuit bread, phenols, clove spices, nutmeg, apples, peaches, candi sugar and butterscotch
This beer is kind of crazy as it reminds me a bit of the St. Bernardus and to some extent, hints of the Westy 12. The beer has definitely has a lot going for it. It is a little boozy but that is quite fine as the bready caramel and rich fruits cover that all up nicely. This is a great beer and many Belgian beer lovers will love this one. Alesmith, very well done.
*I Love sweet and Complex beers, this one put it over just a bit. This is my highest rating for a Grand Cru so far
Rating: 5/5
Speedway Stout by Alesmith is a 12%ABV Imperial Stout brewed with coffee. Considered a world class beer by many reviews
Label:
Speedway Stout’s Ominous, Pitch-Black appearance has become a hallmark of this modern-day classic. Chocolate Roasted malts dominate the flavor, supported by notes of dark fruit, toffee, and caramel. A healthy dose of locally-roasted coffee from Ryan Bros. Coffee, Inc. Added to each batch brings out the beer’s dark chocolate flavors and enhances its drinkability. Despite its intensity, speedway stout’s fine carbonation and creamy mouth feel make it very smooth and surprisingly easy to drink. This beer ages very well and will continue to mature for many years to come.
This beer’s great balance makes it a very food-friendly imperial stout. Pair its roasty flavors and robust mouthfeel with rich beef dishes and char-grilled foods. Both chocolate and vanilla desserts also pair well, as do salty blue cheeses like Stilton or hard nutty cheeses like aged Gouda and cloth-bound cheddars. Serve in a goblet at 50-55 degrees.
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I have been meaning to try out the Barrel aged version as soon as I can find it. However, I figured I try it out before the new come. The aromas are very good. Very thick fragrances of bakers chocolate, brownies, coffee bread, hazelnut, mocha, french vanilla coffee beans, latte or esspresso, caramel, dark fruits like black currants, raisins and cherries, oak, and a nice chocolate cake breadiness. Definitely haven’t tried a coffee stout like this. The coffee used in this seems like a coffee enthusiast coffee. Like a Kopi Luwak almost. The flavors also are of very rich, milk, dark and baker chocolate, currants, black cherries, raisins, french vanilla cream, hazelnut cream, pecan nectar, coffee bread, mocha, espresso coffee, chocolate brownies dipped in caramel, and finally camp fire smores with the chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers and drinking a Starbucks coffee. The coffee in this is definitely high quality stuff. The coffee flavors are very different in this beer. The alcohol is nowhere to be found especially for 12% ABV. Remember, this is not barrel aged so a beer of this high ABV would find it hard to cover up such great alcohol with out aided complexity. The coffee does the job here in place of the bourbon or whatever else aging agent. This beer is simply amazing. I am sure the bourbon barrel one is probably going to be insane once I can find it, and the Kopi Luwak Bourbon one…..well.. let’s just hope I don’t go through the whole bottle in one sitting, it may just be that good.
Rating: 5.5/5
Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy by Ale Smith brewing is a 10% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels. This is a recent 2012 release.
Label:
Great American Beer Festival 2008 “Small Brewing Company of the Year”
This Barrel-Aged version of our Scotch-Style Ale is matured in premium bourbons barrels for at least one year to add layers of complexity to its rich, malty flavor profile. Notes of Vanilla, Oak, and Bourbon from the Barrels combine with the beer’s profile of caramel and toffee to make an utterly unique beer we think you’ll love. Enjoy it now or let it mature in the bottle for years to come. Serve in a goblet at 50-55 degrees.
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Wee Heavy beers are pretty good. I once enjoyed a Sam Adams Wee Heavy which probably does not come close to the awesomeness of this on. I still have to try the original of this but I figured when I saw my chance to get this one I take it. The fragrance coming of the beer in the glass is pretty sweet. Bourbon, Vanilla, plums, caramel, licorice, molasses, butterscotch and possibly some chocolate as well. The flavors are freaking phenomenal. So the first thing I notice is there is really not a lot of burning alcohol for being a “Heavy” ABV beer. The flavors flow of Bourbon, vanilla, caramel, toffee, Blueberry Cheesecake, flan, Dulce de leche and Sweetened Condensed Milk (Leche Nestle), raisins, butterscotch, blackberries, boysenberries, sugar coconut crème pudding, Chocolate Mousse, oak, walnuts and like a Jaggermeister Licorice sweetness. I remember some of the very good notes reminiscent of the original wee heavy I have tried which was a Sam Adams version but this is amplified to over 9000 times in complexity and flavor. I exaggerate ofcourse but when it comes to some of the best beers in the world, this is certainly one of them and I can’t explain it enough. It is just delicious. Now… I am sure this will pair great with a nice dessert 😛
Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore) 
