2016 Ban-Anna’s Love Diablita De Leche Nectar by Nubis Sanctum Ales

 

Rating: 6.25/7
 
2016 Ban-Anna’s Love Diablita De Leche Nectar by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 10% ABV Doppel Weizenbock brewed with Bananas and Goat Milk Dulce De leche Caramel aged in White Grape Wine.
 
My homebrew from last year now 1 year and 5 months old has developed some very nice flavors! The banana is hardly there but the dark fruit and caramel shine massively. It also has some very nice gamey taste from the goat milk. Definitely even more unique than when I first had it. Still one of my best creations.
 

 

Birthday Cake by The Dudes’ brewing

Rating: 6/6
17097634_10104048514631190_2692306445483426950_o
Birthday Cake by The Dudes’ brewing is a 4.9% ABV American Stout brewed with Cake flavors.

==Introduction==
16903120_10104048514551350_7773536282022516909_o
Draft Only release, well, at least for the mean time. When I tried this one at the Dudes’ brewing, I simply thought it was amazing. I am not sure what process they used to get the cake flavors in there as extracts are something that not a lot of breweries use. Regardless, sometimes it can cause beers to “taste fake” but this does not taste fake. Some people may not concur but I for one really loved this one so much I wanted to bring it home for analysis. Thanks to the Dudes’ draft canning line or Crowler system, I was able to bring a can home. For a beer that takes super close to chocolate cake I definitely wanted to bring it to the site. Let’s have a look, cheers!
17038846_10104048514571310_2941652303753395043_o
Aromas:
Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, cake frosting, Tres Leches/Three Milks cake, almond joy chocolate, coffee cake, steamed milk, hazelnut nectar, lactose milk sugar, whipped cream, banana sundae, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, vanilla, caramel, molasses and mild dark fruit notes.
16991702_10104048514137180_6397592059506809353_o
Flavors:
Rich frosting of cake flavors, Tres Leches/Three Milks cake (Not just one, lol), vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, lactose milk sugar, whipped cream, banana sundae, red velvet, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, earthy hops, Dark fruit raspberry, cherries, black berries, currants, molasses, toasted coconut hints, madamia nuts, almond joy chocolate, coffee cake, steamed milk, hazelnut nectar, peanut butter notes, pecan pie, Irish cream, Danish cream and chocolate mousse.
17016058_10104048514117220_5391574360604879122_o
Aftertaste:
Finishing with cake flavor, dark chocolate notes, earthy notes, burnt sugar, vanilla, toffee and caramel.
No alcohol in the taste. Dark body, smooth, creamy, velvety and watery like mouthfeel. Very easy to drink as well.

Overall:
Let me just say that the reason I thought this beer was damn exceptional was mainly because this is pure liquid cake. The complexities are mainly variations of the cake flavor. While not cloying, the light ABV and semi light body makes up for this ever becoming cloying and yet giving rich cake flavors. I am not sure if natural cake flavors were used to make this but however the process, it is insane and I hope to see this one see a public release! Highly recommended
17015883_10104048514062330_5185059557265425178_o
Anime Corner:
Asmodeus and Astaroth from Shinrabansho were used in this pairing as I wanted mainly to pair with the pastel colors of cake. That and the fact that this beer is evil! Well not evil but its so sweet and awesome it should be evil. Yes, I could of gone with an actual cake pairing, since there is no label, I wanted to think of abstract colors and since these 2 are favorite characters of mine.
17097480_10104048531447490_8062302061700172360_o
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/eW7uTxJ.jpg
http://mugen-ryu.matrix.jp/image/asmo-m.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/uxodV46.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pvQsE2H.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CeJLY6IUMAAZn9O.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/FyYcRqG.jpg

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

16107194_10103915883684670_8106820602958435404_oRating: 7/7

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

Label:
None!

==Introduction==
15972710_10103915883145750_3577182622935790665_o
Obtained this one at Mr. K’s liquor near the Bruery. When I first saw this one with all the nuts on the wax, I was genuinely intrigued. Just like their previous use of cereal on the wax with their other beers, this one had wax with nuts on it. The label read that it was a Rocky Road Stout. I had to reread it again. Rocky Road Stout!? Like, actual ice cream flavors? Not Rocky road flavors derived by complex barrel aging or the use of special nuts, vanilla and chocolate? This I had to see. Especially with their success of the Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal beers which regardless of using natural flavors and/or the real deal, I still love them. Yes, I am not that picky and generally open to a lot of beers as long as they are flavorful So with that said, I decided to bring this one home with me. While a being pretty new brew, I have not seen this one elsewhere but a brew that is specifically geared to the awesome marshmallow, chocolate and nutty flavor I am all for it. Let’s a have a look, cheers!

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

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

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

Overall:
An exceptional beer that I would certainly say was amazing. There so much rich flavors from the rocky road but there is a lot of complexity coming out reminding me of all sorts of nuts, chocolate, sweets, dark fruits and much much more. I think this should actually be a bucket lister really simply because I enjoyed it way too much. Just because of that. Yes, it is exceptional on its own because they got the flavors to be simply like a liquid ice cream but mainly because I enjoyed it too much. I need another bottle and highly recommend you get one too!
16112659_10103915883155730_2237034346800905445_o
Anime Corner:
Asmodeus and Astaroth from Shinra Bansho were chosen in this beer not for any specific reason other than the flavors, dark label and infinity flavors. A dark bottle which no apparent evil yet dark. Sounds amazing to me especially since these demons are not evil. Asmodeus primarily is the one I use the pairing with though as she seems very mysterious. Also, infinity and figure 8 can represent an eternity.
15972708_10103915883165710_5193187191094874985_o
Sources:
http://i1.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/03/02/21/29/09/49054468_p0.jpg
http://i1.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/06/06/01/23/59/50742436_p0.jpg
http://i3.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/11/16/23/59/13/53593662_p0.jpg
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-shinrabanshou-asmodeus-astaroth-2190628.png

Ban-Anna’s Love Diablita De Leche Nectar by Nubis Sanctum Ales

10001197_10103117644756880_7627100034381002526_oRating: 6/6

Ban-Anna’s Love Diablita De Leche Nectar by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 10% ABV Doppel Weizenbock brewed with Bananas and Goat Milk Dulce De leche Caramel aged in White Grape Wine.

Label:
“They Say The Devil’s water it ain’t so sweet”…

Whoever said this has never tried it to begin with. Everyone has a sinful pleasure but none have ever made it a mission …

Until Anna came to bring these inner desires to manifestation the day she met with a mysterious woman who gave her a magic potion.

Since that time, Anna has had the magic touch. A simple drop or a touch from her would bring people’s most inner desires out. However, the more Anna shared, the more of her inner devil started to manifest.  She was a kind hearted devil though. Unlike the tales told.

Myth would have you believe that the root of all desserts stemmed from this very potion. Some say that what Anna drank was actually this ‘devil’s water’. Whether the mysterious lady from that day was an Angel or a Devil, the potion is enough to turn the holiest of man into a sinner.

Ingredients: Water, Malts, Hops, Bananas, Vanilla, Coronado Dulce de Leche Cajeta Caramel aged in White Grape Wine and Yeast.
12513960_10103011330775950_1825598058966416032_o (1)==Introduction==
Project #17 pays tribute to my need of making a beer similar to the Bananas Foster’s beer from Buffalo Bayou which was given to me a couple months ago by my friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com. I had always wanted to make a Weizenbock for a long time ago since the style pays tribute to the Doppel Bocks and Dunkelweizens which are some of my favorite styles from Germany. Lucky for me, the Bananas Foster was a Weizenbock. Hence where I got a crazy idea of making something similar but taking my own experimentation into consideration. Essentially, I wanted to implement Coronado Dulce De Leche Cajeta de Cabra into the mix. It is a Mexican Dulce de Leche with Caramel which was aged in White Grape Wine or what they call, Envinado. Also, since I wanted to make a beer that would go well into a beer float. The more the better to make a delicious style such as this. I don’t think the implementation of Goat Milk Caramel has ever been done in a beer so it was definitely a chance to make something unique and special. Aside from the base weizenbock extract recipe I researched, I added a lot of Crystal 40 malts which made my partial mash even bigger. With all the ingredients in place I had something very special to work with. So after a long time, basically 10 weeks of waiting and racking done, here is the brew! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Bananas, dulce de leche caramel, goat milk, vanilla, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, currants, piloncillo sugar one, bubble gum, stone fruit peaches, pecan pie, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Chunky Munkey ice cream, walnuts, plantains, tres leches cake, coffee cake, banana nut bread and flan hints
12801160_10103117646154080_5105050279066731204_n
Flavors:
Mexican Dulce de leche Goat Milk Caramel, vanilla, grilled bananas, clove spice, banana bread, coffee cake, pecan pie, sweetened condensed milk, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coriander, wheat bread, rye bread, toasted rye bread, hazelnut nectar, stone fruit apricot and peach notes, leather hints, bubble gum, capirotada raisin bread pudding, piloncillo sugar cone, plantains, cinnamon hints, fruit cake, Chunky Munkey ice cream, grape wine notes, tres leches cake, flan, banana cream pie, toffee, cane sugar, rum hints, walnuts and Nutella hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing up with bananas, goat milk dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bubble gum, earthy notes, dark fruit, flan, tres leches cake, stone fruits, coriander spice, plantains, clove spice hints, and dark cherry notes. No alcohol in the taste, Crimson Blood and Dark medium Body, smooth, creamy, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with moderate drinkability.
12829404_10103117647017350_7862658038835570667_oOverall:
Yet another crazy experiment done successful. This came out to be such a very delicious brew that it truly is orgasmic! I was concerned about this project big time since I got some sediment left over since there was so much banana in the brew (About 25 bananas!!) When it came to the caramel, I was concerned about how to add it to the brew in secondary since caramel the caramel is made with Goat’s milk and you could really smell it when I boiled the caramel with water. I stuck to my guns and said fuck it, all in the name of good beer and experimentation. I am so thankful that the people that have tried it so far have really liked it and even though it was a one off batch of brew, I definitely would like to make this again and proceed with other experiments as well. Hope to some day make enough for some beer enthusiasts like yourself to try some day. Cheers!
12829343_10103105966470260_6006963412419146236_o
Anime Corner: (tl;dr)
Anna Nishikinomiya from Shimoneta, Asmodeus and Astaroth from Shinrabansho were used in this beer for many many reasons. During the research to make this beer, my friend Steven Blackburn from Iowa and I joked about the scene in Shimoneta where the girl Anna infused her “love nectar” into her cookies. So we basically discussed, if this beer is to be a true dessert, it has to be so damn good like a true nectar of gods. A beer that will basically make you orgasm since it would be so rich and ddelicious Essentially, all the sweetness from the bananas and caramel would become love nectar. The fact that I combined Anna on the label with Asmodeus is a play at the beer style, a DoppelWeizenbock or Double Buck/Goat Wheat beer. It is almost like a duality, Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hide kind of thing. Also, since goats have been used in some cultures to represent devils, I think it was fitting to put both Asmodeus and Astaroth on the label as well. This and the back that I literally used a Goat’s milk caramel into the beer, just adds to how much more the ingredients paired so well with the Weizenbock. The Doppel aspect also notes the fact that the beer is a stronger or Double/Imperial beer at 10%. In this beer, the Banana aspect, you can see Anna’s name is in Banana, and the whole Diablita de Leche is a play on the words Devil’s Milk. So you can see how I related Goat and Devil there. So then the whole thing with Astaroh and Asmodeus together is the Doppel Bock. Also, Since the grain bag burned a tiny bit at the bottom, the bitter earthiness of the brew can be seen as the burning of hell fire. Oh and Anna becomes Asmodeus after too much Love Nectar. Hope I covered everything.

Sources:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/35088274/images/1411600424581.png

Passionate Dragon collaboration by Bottle Logic and Arizona Wilderness brewing

12592202_10103031732850030_1756055832933431593_n 12622542_10103031737051610_2900119749762959110_o 12621980_10103031737760190_3066950487845270236_oRating: 5.75/6

Passionate Dragon collaboration by Bottle Logic and Arizona Wilderness brewing is an 8.8% ABV American Farmhouse Ale/Saison brewed with Passion fruit, Dragon Fruit, Centennial Kumquats and aged in Red&White Wine Barrels.

Label:
Level 1 Limited
Brewed in collaboration with our bearded brethren at Arizona Wilderness Brewing, Co. This Saison boasts 6 different locally sourced fruit varietals plus heritage Sonoran white wheat and local harvested Arizona bay leaves.
#Science + #Nature = #Passion! End Transmission.

==Introduction==

Dragonfruit has been one of those elusive and exotic fruits that really don’t get around much as like let’s say cherries or bananas. Neither does Passion fruit and usually is why the price of these fruits is higher than common fruits. So, since I like rarity, a beer with these 2 fruits is definitely something I would want to try. Heck, the use of these fruits has inspired me to make a beer using them. I like to take stuff a step beyond but only time will tell how it will be. Either way, this is a dragon and passion fruit beer that really intrigued me so the fact that I was able to bring it to the site is such an honor. I hear this one was well coveted and to get this one was not an easy feat. Let’s see if it stands to my expectations.

Aromas:
Rich Dragon Fruit, Passion fruit, Stone fruit tart apricot, mango, kiwi fruit, honey dew melon, prickly pears, lemon, farmhouse hay, white wine grapes, red wine grapes, musty oak, Apples, Kumquats, Crab Apples, Oranges, Cranberries, yerba buena, mint, peppercorn, bay leaf, basil, persimmon, cane sugars, tangerine preserves and peppercorn.

Flavors:
Rich Dragon Fruit, Passion fruit, white wine grapes, red wine grapes, musty oak, Apples, Kumquats, Crab Apples, Oranges, Cranberries, Stone fruit tart apricot, mango, kiwi fruit, honey dew melon dryness, lemon, farmhouse hay, Chardonnay, Raspberries, Blueberries, pine apple hints, biscuit bread, vanilla, herbal notes, yerba buena, mint, peppercorn, bay leaf, basil, lychee fruit, tangerine preserves, strawberries, persimmon and cane sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishes tart dry with lingering oak, tropical fruits like that dragon fruit, raspberries, farmhouse hay, oak, vanilla and citrus. No alcohol in the taste. Gold and pink clear body, crisp, refreshing and mildly creamy mouthfeel and easy to drink despite the ABV.

Overall:
Damn exceptional! Probably one of the best saisons I have ever had. The exotic fruits really stand out on this beer and this brew being a template for the Dragon beer I’m making, I can come back to this one and see if the addition of the passion fruit and dragon fruit really makes a difference. I highly recommend this one. It’s the kind of beer you want to keep drinking all the time!

Anime Corner:
Leona Heidern from King of Fighters, Astaroth and Asmodeus from Shinra Bansho were used in this pairing to pair with the aspect of the Dragon in terms of the color of pink dragon fruits, passion fruit being the heart of Astaroth and the dragon like characteristics of both Asmodeus and Astaroth. Really, I just wanted to be able to pair the 2 demon girls with an awesome dragon beer. Leona was a Bonus with the nice dragon fruit colors. Oh and in that red haired mode, she unleashes a lot of rage, she is, the passionate dragon.

Sources:
https://k42.kn3.net/taringa/1/3/2/4/1/8/7/iruel/E41.jpg?4691
http://i.imgur.com/kLTVw1M.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CNr13QnXAAAW0F1.jpg

2014 Black Xantus by Humboldt Brewing

11080913_10102466688727980_8375289657211814382_n 11083643_10102466689281870_2841524481416130756_n 11053261_10102466690105220_3833739091349103959_oRating: 6/5

2014 Black Xantus ((SPECIAL BIRTHDAY REVIEW)) by Humboldt Brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Mexican Jobella Coffee Beans and aged in Bourbon and Wine oak barrels.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION:
Black Xantus is a rare bird and the first new release from Nectar Ales in Years. It is the First ever “big-beer” to be released under the Nectar Ales line. Barrel aged for 6 months in combination of Bourbon, retired Firestone Union and wine barrels and Infused with fair-trade, organic coffee from local roaster Jobella. Rich bourbon and coffee aromas greet the senses. Complex chocolate and tobacco flavors fill the palate. This beer displays a full-bodied mouth-feel and an overall balanced presentation. It would be a perfect pairing to rich chocolate desserts.
Style: Imperial Java Stout IBUs: 50 Color: Black ABV: 11%

==Introduction==

As with my birthday from last year, I saved a newer bottle of Black Xantus jut for the occasion. Black Xantus is one of my favorite beers that got me into trying different craft beers. I would explain the story behind this beer but it is better explained in my last years birthday review: https://animebeers.com/2014/03/22/2010-black-xantus-special-birthday-re-review-by-humboldt-brewing-brewed-at-firestone-walker/ . So rather than break down into details, let us see what the 2014 version of one of my most favorite beers has turned out to be. Another birthday has come and hope for many years of anime beers! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruits like dark cherries, raisins, plums, blackberries, Rich mocha coffee, dulce de leche caramel, coconut, vanilla, oak bourbon, flan, choco flan, dark chocolate, Kahlua, roasty notes, milkshake, port wine notes, hazelnut, marshmallow smores, fudge cake, rocky road ice cream, sweetened condensed milk on bananas, pecan pie, brown sugars, chocolate chip cookies and almond joy.

Flavors:
Rich Black Cherries, Black Cherry yogurt, dark fruits like raisins, plums, dates, blackberries, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake,roasted coffee grains, mocha, espresso, chocolate abuelita hints, vanilla, oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, port wine, coconut, marshmallows, graham crackers, roasted coffee grains, mocha, espresso, chocolate abuelita hints, vanilla, oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, port wine, coconut, marshmallows, graham crackers, molasses. Sweetened condensed milk, Tres Leches cake, anise and mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits linger along with roasted coffee mocha, vanilla, dulce de leche, flan, bourbon, Black cherry yogurt, dark chocolate and an earthy like finish. No alcohol in the taste even if 11% ABV. Smooth, creamy, syrupy and silky mouthfeel, pitch black Center of a Black Hole dark body and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Should already be in the World Class category! Next to the best coffee beers in the world, this is outstanding and in many categories, simply dominating. This beer can age forever or drink fresh. It seems fresh you get more of the fresh cherry and chocolate forward while the older version is more dark fruit and oak goodness. With its new label, still the same Black Xantus that I fell for long long ago. These are the types of beers I always go back to, like Trois Pistoles and St. Bernardus Abt 12. Also, this is was beer that made start doing anime beer pairings so if the crazy idea didn’t come from taking pictures, I probably wouldn’t be writing about anime and beers in general. Well, hope we have many more pairings and many more years to go. Cheers everyone!

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus from Shinrabansho is the daughter of Asutarotto from that same card series. Though she may be a demon, she is of pure heart, but though evil women be, this can be said for even the utmost good. She was used in the first pairing of art work that made me try out different beers. Her main relation to Black Xantus has to do with her colors which pair with the Black Xantus background of the Blue Moon and the blue night sky. Xantus, being the humming bird, she rises to impart the great flavors of complex dark fruits, cherries, coffee, chocolate, bourbon and more into the beer. In this pairing she is kicking back and relaxing. That is pretty much what happens after 4 years of just laying down. She gazes into the soul of those who court her and while she may seem seductive and sweet in nature (Like a Rose which the Xantus drinks) she will bring forth a dangerous smite! But… only because she loves you… So basically, be careful with Asmodeus, take her in a sip at a time and don’t take her head on, cuz she may come back with vengeance. Cheers!

Sources:
http://asset-7.soup.io/asset/7112/6946_709f_960.png
http://pic02.nijie.info/nijie_picture/140_20121031015616.jpg

A Deal With The Devil by Anchorage Brewing

11077916_10102457589058790_4412396826361976038_o 11070962_10102457589378150_8490121710075599289_n 11041843_10102457589787330_4897504552242832002_o 11050787_10102457590071760_7595017652865168760_o 11075211_10102457590505890_3648482483795809857_oRating: 7/5

A Deal With The Devil by Anchorage Brewing is a 17.3% ABV World Class American Barleywine aged in Cognac Barrels

Label:
Batch#2
DEC/2014

Barleywine style ale brewed with Galaxy hops. A starting gravity of 37 Plato. Aged Eleven months in Cognac Barrels. The Devil is in the details…Enjoy.

Faustian pleasure has consequence, of this you must know
When you go down to the crossroads, expect more than a show
Robert Johnson paid dearly, for talent and fame
His deal with the devil, left only his name
Eternal damnation, no chance for retreat
Save only Mr. Daniels’, stunning cunning fiddle feat
This devil is in the details, diabolical pacts abound
Worldly riches and pleasures, but consequences come ’round
‘Twix barley and beer, there is liquid sublime’
But this devil is in the details, with consequence in time
Thirty-seven plato, a matter of some gravity
A Galaxy of hops, only adds to depravity
Eight months in wood, of Cognac in barrel
Mephistopheles you’re not, and the devil your peril
-Tom Dalidorf
Celebrator Beer News

Additional info:
1 hop, 1 malt, aged in giant freshly emptied Cognac Barrels.

==Introduction==

You can definitely say I was tempted so many times to try and find this to the point of madness. It wasn’t until I finally found it on mybeercollectibles.com with someone who was willing to make a “deal” on 2 of these demons. The bargain was set, and I finally received this crazy beer only to bring it to you and to see why this beer is such a great beer. According to this website here (http://www.anchoragepress.com/brew-review/20/devil’s-honey) this is all it took for me to just keep searching until I found it for a great price. Keep in mind, this was is going for a ridiculous price right now and me being of limited income but with a need to find something, there are ways to find these things, and you don’t have to sell yourself just to get it. So, with that being said, let’s see if the hype is true. Cheers!

Aromas:
Ridiculous amount of dulce de leche caramel, rye bread, oak, vanilla, rich honey, maple syrup, almond syrup, hazelnut nectar, cognac, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, prunes, dark cherries, blackberries, toffee, bourbon, marshmallows, chocolate smores, plantain hints, banana notes, crème brulee, graham crackers, rich pecan pie, cocada and macaroon coconut candy, dragon fruit, passion fruit, rich chocolate almond joy, rich rocky road ice cream and molasses.

Flavors:
Super rich dulce de leche Caramel, super rich Honey, Wild flower honey, maple syrup, toffee, french vanilla ice cream, vanilla beans, tres leches cake, sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche from the wooden container, wood oak, cognac, coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, rye bread, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, prunes, dark cherries, blackberries, toffee, bourbon, marshmallows, smores, graham crackers, coconut hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pineapple hints, crème brulee, plantain, macadamia nuts, black cherry cheesecake, choco flan, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, cookie dough ice cream and more!

Aftertaste:
Rich residue lingers of rich honey, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, cognac, oak, coconut, toffee, rock candy, dark fruits, dark cherries, three milks/tres leches cake, sweetened condensed milk tropical notes, pecan pie, rye bread and minor earthy hop hint. How can there be no alcohol in the taste at this ABV, why?!?!?! HOW!?? It drinks like so damn smooth, silky, velvety, with honey syrup mouth feel, easy to drink, and crimson brown medium to full body. Simply the most ridiculous beer in like forever!

Overall:
People were not kidding. Seriously, WTF is this?! It is way too fucking rich on some many aspects. I wanna compare it to the greats of the Bruery, cigar city or Three Floyds but I honestly can’t as the sugar levels are something beyond what I have ever had. This is more literal syrup than that of the Weekday Bruery greats or the Dark Lord and yet despite it’s alcohol, still drinks smooth. I cannot put my finger on it but drinking this is like I decided to make a blend of honey, caramel, sweetened condensed milk and just put it together without curdling the beer. I hope one day this is released in more than just “limited” batches but for now, if you can find it or trade, it really is a different experience.

Anime Corner:
Astaroth, Asmoedeus and Mephistopheles from Shinrabansho along with Scanty and Kneesocks from Panty & Stocking were all used in this pairing because for being one of the most hyped beers in a long time, I wanted to bring forth my favorite anime devils in a fashion where they are trying to bargain, be seductive and over all just plain playful to strike a crazy deal. Everything that has to do with the beer strikes gold with these girls.

Sources:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/35088274/images/1411599946809.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Mephisto.%28Shinrabansho%29.full.1579033.jpg
http://31.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mddihfPzld1rrsokso1_1280.jpg
http://blog-imgs-63.fc2.com/j/i/n/jingaidaisuki/cc6ade8ca3d4_0A32BEDC_aohada014_R_thumb.jpg

Box Set Track #10 (Bat Out Of Hell) by The Lost Abbey

11043333_10102430209337970_2441233685176576585_o 1534998_10102430208290070_10216307217524649_nRating: 6/5

Box Set Track #10 (Bat Out Of Hell) by The Lost Abbey is a 13.5% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Ryan Brothers Coffee And TCHO Cacao Nibs Added.

Label:
The morning headlines hit the streets with apocalyptic alliterations describing the offensive odor that sprang from the underbelly of New York’s sewers. The Times splashed “Rancid Reckoning” as the Daily countered with “Fetid Funk.” The New York Sentinel doubled up stating “Phillip’s Putrid Petulant Problem.”

Each paper speculated on the arrival of thousands of bats. Tree Huggers ascribed it to global warming. The noxious gasses emanating from the sewers had stymied the City Engineers leaving the clergy to invoke worldly moral decay and the book of Revelations. A live press conference was convened to coincide with the start of the 5 O’clock news as Mayor Phillip Paulson attempted to allay his citizen’s concerns.

As the mayor took to the podium, a cyclone of evil emerged as the bats formed into one large satanic storm of hate. Heathens and heretics held hands in the ensuing panic. Some dropped to their knees and prayed. Chaos reigned supreme in the streets and as quickly as the whirlwind emerged, it was gone. To this day, no one is sure what happened that night. But to a man, everyone prays that Phillip’s Fetid Funk never returns…

==Introduction==

Formerly known as “Serpent’s Stout – Bourbon Barrel Aged With Cocoa Nibs & Coffee”, this beer was released back in 2012 as part of the 13 tracks of rock and roll for the lost abbey. It was renamed as Track#10 “Bat Out of Hell” by Meat Loaf. These 13 beers were hard to get since once needed to purchase a lottery ticket and then if they won, they would get the option to but the whole thing for about $300. Yes, that set of 13 beers is pricey and it was definitely something I did not bother to invest in. I don’t like hyped stuff when it comes to jumping through hoops or “Black Friday” style of overnight camping and standing in line. I have usually obtained beers either online or through trades. This set was pretty ridiculous to get but I figured one that one day they would release them one at time. I figure I would get the ones that intrigued me the most. Well, this one was one of those and I am glad they have it for the public. You should be able to find this wherever they sell Lost Abbey beers or in most places. I am here to see if this beer is worth what I was hoping for. Serpent’s Stout is one of my favorite Lost Abbey beers and now this being barrel aged, I know it can only be way better . Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich oak, vanilla, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, fancy coffee, whiskey, bourbon, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate, Fancy coffee, Khalua Coffee, Marshmallow smores, oreo cookies, choco flan, Irish cream, almond joy chocolates, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, coffee cake, tobacco and tons of dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate, roasted coffee, fancy coffee, Whiskey, Bourbon, oak, khalua coffee liqueur, vanilla, marshmallow smores, oreo cookies, choco flan, Irish cream, coffee cake, tobacco, leather, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, black berries, cherries, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, toasted coconut, coffee grounds, espresso, java, bananas, clove spice, cinnamon, rocky road icecream, butterscotch, hazelnut, raisin bread pudding, macadamia nuts, anise and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Rich fancy coffee, chocolate, marshmallow smores, vanilla, caramel, crème brulee, whiskey, toasted coconut, almond joy, frapppuccino, dark fruits and tobacco. No alcohol in the taste the despite the ABV, sipping drinkability, rich, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and pitch black abyss body.

Overall:
Serpent’s Stout never tasted this great. Holy crap this beer is freaking awesome. There are so much rich flavors going on here with a lot of complexity. I wish they released this in a 750ml bottle but even then, that is just danger waiting to happen. I really enjoyed this one a lot that I will get it again. I can only speak for the other beers, but at $300$ for the set, well $1000, I say get this one but unless you have money, buy the whole set. I will only invest my time on the more intriguing ones. Serpent’s Stout rules!

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus from ShinraBansho was used to represent the “Bat Out Of Hell” in the label. I also chose her since she pairs really well with the colors. While Rukia and Ichigo were used in the previous review of Serpent Stout to go with Rukia seduced by the snake and becoming evil, Asmodeus represent that bat that is in full frontal rage. Asmodeus can be really sweet and nice representing the smoothness of the beer and rich flavor, but this is when she is pissed off. So luckily you only have 370ml bottle otherwise her rage would really consume your soul!

Sources:
http://www.liliah.info/img/Other%20Backgrounds/pissed.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2011-08-30-435143.jpeg

The Three Dragons of Thanksgiving series Blueberry Pie Scraper by Pipeworks Brewing

11017460_10102413875101910_1246892386137450877_o 11016081_10102413875715680_4551859277962316544_n 10986846_10102413876209690_3704330617231961298_oRating: 5.5/5

The Three Dragons of Thanksgiving series Blueberry Pie Scraper by Pipeworks Brewing is an 8.5% ABV is a Dark fruit ale brewed with Blueberries and Spices.

Label:
Batch#564
The mysterious and curious presence of large dragons. The lack of blueberry pie. And a city that can’t make sense of either when giant dragons descend upon Chicago, and only one slice of blueberry pie remains, this dragon will stop at nothing to have his dessert and drink it too. Don’t be alarmed, those chains are made of chrome steel…or are they? This season, enjoy the 3 Dragons of Thanksgiving, the strangest story ever conceived by man. “You’ll see it wasn’t airplanes that killed the dragon, it was beauty beautiful blueberry pie that killed the beast *Spoiler Alert

==Introduction==

Pipeworks brewing beers are so far away yet, thankfully, to online resources, I am able to bring this one forward. Blueberry beers are something of a rare commodity and when done right, they can be spectacular. I have only had a chance to try the Ninjas vs. Unicorn from Pipeworks and believe me, I wish I had more. They seem to be making some great beers out in the mid west and is something I hope we can see here in California. For now, I plan on doing this beer review since the blueberry beers I have tried in the past are freaking awesome. So let’s take a look at this limited release one, cheers!

Aromas:
Banana, clove spice, bubble gum, ginger spice, cinnamon, brown sugar, toffee, vanilla , carmel, dark fruits like raisins, plums, toffee, rich blueberry pie, blueberry cheesecake, tart raspberries, currants, Concorde grapes, flan, brown sugar, dark chocolate, Mexican chocolate, piloncillo and raisins bread pudding.

Flavors:
Rich Bananas, clove spice, Blueberry pie, hazelnut, pecan pie, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, piloncillo, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, raspberries, cherries, blackberries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, raisin bread pudding, bubblegum, flan hints, ginger bread, fruit cake notes, pumpkin spice, Mexican Chocolate notes, dark chocolate, chocolate covered blueberries, marshmallows, coconut hints, brown sugar, Danish cookies, toffee, strawberry shortcake and blueberry cheesecake.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits, clove spice, ginger spice, cinnamon, blueberry muffins, earthy notes and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, creamy and smooth mouthfeel, pitch dark crimson and purple full body and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn good and complex blueberry ale. Aside from being being nice and fruit, the spices of fall are laid it out very well in front. This beer is my second favorite next to the Draco from Montegioco (which was also a dragon beer with blueberries) and the Smashed Blueberry beer from Shipyard. This beer has definitely hit many of those dark fruit notes not just blue berry and what a true blueberry pie with crust and icecream is supposed to be like. A total crazy dessert. I highly recommended especially since it has a dragon on the label!

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus from Shinra Bansho, Amari by luigiix and Godzilla personification by gamerag3 were chosen as the three dragons of Thanksgiving. I am not sure if I will get a chance to find the other beers but to go with the aspect of 3 blueberry dragons or dragon like characters, I chose them Asmodeus to represent the fierceness yet smoothness of the alcohol, Amari with the pie crust, vanilla, caramel and other sweet pie flavors of blueberries and Godzilla female personification as the dark fruits and the true drive of this beer especially how the dragon hugs the skyscraper like Zilla Jr. wrapped around the empire state building in the American Godzilla cartoon intro.

Sources:
http://i4.pixiv.net/img42/img/duelforce/21820231.png
http://fc06.deviantart.net/…/13finals_by_luigiix-d80hvu8.png
http://gamerag3.deviantart.com/art/Godzilla-458348844

Abundance by Renaissance brewing

11102_10102205526718740_7303628266843194255_nRating: 5/5

Abundance by Renaissance brewing is a 7.6% ABV Baltic Porter brewed with cherries.

Label:
A hybrid of English Porter and Russian Imperial Stout, Baltic Porters are full bodied and smooth, with rich malt flavours. Abundance is brewed with cherries and this helps accentuate the sweetness of the eleven different malts that we used in the mash. The result is a robust, dark beer with exceptional smoothness, less burnt characters than traditional porters and a mellow cherry finish. Abundance is a perfect pairing for a kiwi barbecue, with an iron curtain influence: venin rye bread

==Introduction==

A Baltic porter from Marlborough New Zealand. I cannot recall if I ever had had a New Zealand beer before, but what this says it has to offer, I was definitely intrigued with the find. I honestly chose this on a whim since I was doing other beer purchases online and I needed to get another beer to finish my order. This one intrigued me since not only was it a regular porter, but a Baltic one at that. The addition of cherries, well, that just added to how much I wanted to try it. I cannot recall if this will be my first review for a New Zealand beer, but this is a new review here on the site for Renaissance brewing. Cheers!

Aromas:
Coffee, mocha, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, milk chocolate, dark cherries, cherry cordials, marshmallow hints, soy sauce, molasses, anise, mint chocolate, brown sugar, Dr. Pepper Cherry hints, vanilla, caramel flan hints, rye bread, pecan pie hints, hazelnut, soy sauce and dark fruit raisins.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, coffee, cherry cordials, dark fruit raisins, dark cherry, currants, black berries, mild rye bead, marshmallow, mild roasty hints, milk sugar, soy sauce hints, mocha hints, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut nectar, vanilla, Dr. Pepper Cherry hints, anise, Irish cream and mint chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Mild Roasty coffee, milk sugar, rye bread, dark fruit, dark cherry yogurt hints and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, medium to full body dark crimson body, easy to drink, smooth and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
I could find myself drinking this all day. So much rich flavors and yet so damn smooth. For those that don’t want a super boozy chocolate cherry beer, this fits the bill right here. Lots of flavor complexity with rich sweetness and not overwhelming booziness. Yeah I think I really like this one a lot that I will definitely pick this one up again. Not just worth one try, but several. Especially since all the other great cherry chocolate beers are sometimes harder to find.

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus (Lust) from Seven Deadly Sins was used in this pairing to represent Abundance. Abundance in the sense that this is liquid pleasure to your taste buds. It’s a guilty pleasure. A cherry chocolate and dark fruit guilty pleasure of a beer. This Asmodeus isn’t evil, she only is by name and association with sin. She is very sweet and very approachable and as you can see, there is an Abundance of her to go around. So give her a try, you may like this devil’s water.

Sources:
http://enjelia.deviantart.com/art/7-Deadly-Sins-Asmodeus-394843440

Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top by Evil Twin Brewing

10469754_10102190595481060_6825017167401783502_nRating: 6/5

Imperial Biscotti Break Natale Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top by Evil Twin Brewing is an 11.5% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with Sour Cherries.

Label:
The Holidays brings out the best in some people. However if the Holidays also is a tough one for you, this beer will definitely sweeten dark times of endless caroling and difficult domestic obligations. Did Imperial Biscotti Break also make your sugar levels rise and the bitter sweet flavors of coffee, almonds and chocolate very sentimental – this one has a sour cherry on top. Forza Imperiale.

==Introduction==

It’s approaching Christmas and what is one of the best candies to be released at this time aside from Ferrero Rocher chocolates? Well none other than the Cherry Cordials. The Chocolate covered cherries with cherry syrup. I never tried the original Imperial Biscotti break but I did the Doughnut break which was awesome. So awesome in fact, that when I saw this one on www.craftshack.com, I had to get it and check it out. Now all I have to do is see if I can find another to cellar. Either way, this is supposed to be a Christmas beer, so why not celebrate it with this dessert one. Let us find out if it really is awesome.

Aromas:
Rich chocolate cherry cordials, Dark cherry yogurt, vanilla dulce de leche caramel, milk sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolate, almonds, almond joy, almond milk, pecan pie, cherry cobbler, cherry chocolate cheese cake hints, flan, hazelnut nectar, mocha, rock candy, ginger bread, fruit cake, molasses, anise, Cherry Dr. pepper hints, anise, Irish cream, vanilla wafers and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate and Dark cherry yogurt, dulce de leche caramel, Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, black berries, blue berries, currants, cherry cordial chocolate, milk sugar, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolate, almonds, almond joy, almond milk, hazelnut, Raspberry preserves on rye bread, cherry chocolate cheese cake, vanilla wafers, rum hints, ginger bread, fruit cake, rock candy, candi sugar hints, mocha, Cherry Khalua, molasses, anise, earthy notes, Irish cream, brown sugar, flan, cherry cobbler, pecan pie, Dr. pepper cherry, cinnamon toast crunch in cherry syrup, coconut, biscuit bread, tobacco, leather and marshmallows.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, dark cherry yogurt, earthy notes, raspberry preserve hints, roasted coffee notes, tobacco, leather, vanilla and other dark fruit lingers. No alcohol in the taste, very dangerous. Smooth creamy and silky mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and pitch black crimson dark full body with hardly a milimeter of lacing.

Overall:
Damn, surely with this dessert they were not kidding about the cherry on top of this complex chocolate dessert of complex goodness. This reminds me of the Bourbon County Cherry Rye. The cherries do not come off as overly sweet but they are somewhat tart like cherry skins which really helps balance out the excessive sweetness and overall makes it like a fruit cake in a way. Now I really want to find another bottle of this and get more for saving as this will be the best treat for Christmas. If you can find it, it would make a great present and I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Astaroth and Asmodeus from Shinrabansho were used in this pairing since it is a Christmas beer after all but the whole Holiday coming from Evil Twin fits perfectly as they both look like each other. Mother and Daughter. What about the Cherry on top? Why that’s Asmodeus head sitting on top of Astaroth’s motherly blueberry ofcourse, HA! I really like the way this turned out in terms of the colors, the dark aspect of the beer how it is sweet but dark cherry tart in a way too. It is more than perfect.

Sources:
http://i4.pixiv.net/img72/img/cve27426/40452197.jpg

http://safebooru.org//images/1108/d5f8f143151b9b09e9bb04628fbe35a574008447.jpg?1151134

2010 Black Xantus ((SPECIAL BIRTHDAY RE-REVIEW)) by Humboldt Brewing, brewed at Firestone Walker

10013941_10101721214614080_1221267500_n
10151411_10101721219968350_1741906109_nRating: 6/5* One of my first gateway beers, certainly one of my top favorites. 

2010 Black Xantus ((SPECIAL BIRTHDAY RE-REVIEW)) by Humboldt Brewing, brewed at Firestone Walker, is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Mexican Jobella Coffee Beans and aged in Bourbon and Wine barrels. Cellared for 4 years.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION:
Black Xantus is a rare bird and the first new release from Nectar Ales in Years. It is the First ever “big-beer” to be released under the Nectar Ales line. Barrel aged for 6 months in combination of Bourbon, retired Firestone Union and wine barrels and Infused with fair-trade, organic coffee from local roaster Jobella. Rich bourbon and coffee aromas greet the senses. Complex chocolate and tobacco flavors fill the palate. This beer displays a full-bodied mouth-feel and an overall balanced presentation. It would be a perfect pairing to rich chocolate desserts. 
Style: Imperial Java Stout IBUs: 50 Color: Black ABV: 11%
___

Today is my birthday and as a special treat, I wanted to do a re-review the first blog post I did long ago. Black Xantus is one of my favorite beers that got me into trying different craft beers (Aside from Lost Abbey and Arrogant Bastard) and was one which also got me into collecting beer labels. The first time I tried it was Christmas eve in 2010 after I had saved the this beer for about 1 year and was one that was told to be paired with chocolate dessert. I had saved it in remembrance of my departed mother. Back then when I tried it, it was so damn rich and paired so well with chocolate cheesecake that I knocked out for a bit. Even before the days of Black Tuesdays, Grey Mondays, super barrel aged chocolate beers, this one was one of my special ones. Hence the reason it sits to this day in the center of my beer bottle collection in the wall. I did not know much about barrel aged beers back then but after trying so many different beers but this was still my most favorite. So today, I bring here a bottle, aged for 4 years, to remember my mom and the day she gave birth to me. Today I am 31 years old, the age at which my mom had me. So bringing this beer out makes this even more the special occasion. 

Cheers!!

Aromas:
Rich coffee mocha, dulce de leche caramel, coconut, dark cherries, dark raisins, plums, blackberries, vanilla, oak bourbon, flan, choco flan, dark chocolate, milkshake, port wine notes, hazelnut, marshmallow smores, fudge cake, rocky road ice cream, sweetened condensed milk on bananas, pecan pie, brown sugars, chocolate chip cookies, Kahlua, roasty notes and almond joy. 

Flavors:
Cherries, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate milk shake, roasted coffee grains, mocha, espresso, chocolate abuelita hints, vanilla, oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, port wine, coconut, marshmallows, graham crackers, dark fruits like dark cherries, raisins, plums, choco flan, crème brulee, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, almond joy, banana notes, reminiscent of chocolate cheesecake, fudge cake, Kahlua, brown sugar and mild anise.

Aftertaste:
Roasty coffee lingers along with the sweet vanilla and caramel bourbon with the cherry and chocolate and finishing earthiness. No alcohol in the despite this thing is probably at 15% ABV after 4 years. A sense of smoothness with a sipping quality a thick almost syrupy mouth feel. Excellent!

Overall:
Right next to Mocha Wednesday is what this is, one of the best mocha chocolate coffee beers out there. After 4 years, it still grew into some great complex stuff. There was no doubt in my mind why this was my favorite in 2010 and the other years I tried it and certainly no doubt why even today, it doesn’t fail to amaze me. Sometimes, when it comes to beers, it is always best to remember where you started. I started trying different beers back then and if it wasn’t for this and beers like Trois Pistoles and St. Bernardus 12abt, I might as well have missed out on Beer, the lost treasure of taste and art!!

Anime Corner:
Asmodeus from Shinrabansho is the daughter of Asutarotto from that same card series. Though she may be a demon, she is of pure heart, but though evil women be, this can be said for even the utmost good. She was used in the first pairing of art work that made me try out different beers. Her main relation to Black Xantus has to do with her colors which pair with the Black Xantus background of the Blue Moon and the blue night sky. Xantus, being the humming bird, she rises to impart the great flavors of complex dark fruits, cherries, coffee, chocolate, bourbon and more into the beer. In this pairing she is kicking back and relaxing. That is pretty much what happens after 4 years of just laying down. She gazes into the soul of those who court her and while she may seem seductive and sweet in nature (Like a Rose which the Xantus drinks) she will bring forth a dangerous smite! But… only because she loves you… So basically, be careful with Asmodeus, take her in a sip at a time and don’t take her head on, cuz after 4 years she may come back with vengeance. Cheers!

Shegöat by the Bruery

1549365_10101585176256040_912968587_n 1483304_10101585175203150_1491038379_nRating: 5/5

Shegöat by the Bruery is an 8.7% ABV Weizenbock.

Label:
All The Wins

We recently discovered this original home brew recipe of Patrick’s with which he won Best of Show awards. Without changing it much, we recreated it for you to enjoy today. Rich, malty and perfect for the winter months. 
___

Got this one along with the Preservation Society release. It will be hitting only local distribution in California, however, you can still get it at www.craftbeerkings.com . I have no idea what a Shegöat is, but all I could find is information on a female goat. According to Google, this is all I got: “One of the branches of augury in ancient Rome dealt especially with the signs which might be derived from animals; and it was believed that if a she-goat crossed the path of a man who was stepping out of his house it was a good omen, and he might proceed on his way rejoicing.” Anyway, on to the review.

Aromas:
Rich caramel, banana bread, Dark fruits, cloves, coriander, citrus, earthy hop notes, caramel, rye, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Flavors:
Rich Banana bread, Plantains, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like raisins, plums, citrus, coriander, cloves, raisin bread pudding, pecans, almonds, earthy hop notes, pineapple juice, tart cherry, licorice notes, bubble gum, toasted rye bread, cinnamon notes and honey.

Aftertaste:
Banana bread, cloves, caramel, dark fruit notes, spices and earthy bitterness lingers. Easy to medium drinkability. Some very minor alcohol in the taste but clears up as the beer gets warmer, so let it warm up

Overall:
The beer is fantastic! If the Bruery ever made a German beer that is awesome it be like this. The beer reminds of my days with Franziskaner Dunkelweiss. One of the best banana German beers. Although, the Weizenbock is the stronger version of a Dunkelweisse, it its just epic win. That is why the label says all the wins. If you like German beers, you will probably love this one, I sure did.

Anime Corner:
I chose Asmodeus from the Seven Deadly Sins series to represent the She-Goat. I could not find the true meaning of the word Shegöat so I found this one. She is part of the 7 demons of sin who represents Lust and exposes her victims in such fashion as well. She looks like a goat in the pictures but she also represents the banana flavors of the beer or the banana in the banana split she is on. Since the beer is fruity tasting, the pictures compliment it perfectly. Shegoat really is tantalizing, isn’t she? 

Stone 17th Anniversary Götterdämmerung (Ragnarok / Twilight of Gods) IPA

1235028_10101357010122800_818281747_nRating: 4.7/5

Stone 17th Anniversary Götterdämmerung (Ragnarok / Twilight of Gods) IPA is 9.5% ABV German Double India Pale Ale brewed mainly with German Hops and Pilsner malt

Label: 
Life is never dull at Stone, but the last year has been one of the most eventful yet. We threw open the doors to Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station, our second decidedly eclectic brewery restaurant, installed in historic former Naval Training Center buildings (including their original mess hall). We outfitted it with a 10-barrel brewhouse, 40 taps serving Stone and guest beers, a huge outdoor garden area, and 650-plus seats. Hey, “small” is for other people. Well, come to think of it, we do have our own version of “small” in our brand-new-as-of-August craft beer-centric Stone bar and eatery in Terminal 2 of San Diego International Airport. At any rate, plan your trip accordingly. And we doubled the size and production capacity of our brewery, built the new Stone Packaging Hall and, oh yeah, found out we’re now the 10th largest craft brewing company in the country. We can hardly believe we fit that all into one paragraph, much less 12 months. Through all that growth, like hop bines rooted in fertile soil (see what we did there?), we kept our feet securely planted on terra firma, remembering that it’s all about the beer—we’d be nothing without it. And so, as we prepare to celebrate 17 years of straining the seams of the ale envelope, we again focus squarely on beer via our annual anniversary offering, while at the same time laying to waste long-held concepts of what German hops can and cannot do, as well as what the world has come to know about San Diego IPAs—thanks much in part to our family of beers.

Inspired by new experimental German hops, our brewing team is celebrating our 17ten Jahrestag by taking palates on an unconventional tour of Deutschland by way of Southern California. In doing so, we used a grain bill comprised exclusively of pilsner malts and German hops with crazy awesome names: Herkules, Hersbrucker, Magnum, Merkur, Opal, Smaragd & Strisselspalt. Dry-hopping with Sterling, a U.S. hop with Saaz parentage, lends a bit of familiarity, but be forewarned, this is a unique beer that takes the IPA—a style we’ve already pushed far beyond its previous limits over the years—to interesting new territory. Schumpeter chose economics; we chose beer. Our creative destruction has been aimed squarely at the previously-held-dear conventions of what beer can and should be. Stone 17th Anniversary Götterdämmerung IPA is the latest in a long line of innovations, but nowhere near the last. Not by a long shot.

—Greg Koch & Steve Wagner, Co-Founders, Stone Brewing Co.
___

Cheers to another year of the Arrogant Bastards of Stone Brewing Co. This year they bring forth a German inspired IPA using mainly German ingredients such German hops and German Pilsner malts. As soon as I opened the beer I was not sure what to expect as when I think German I think sweet sweet banana Bavarian notes or deep caramel toffee from the doppel bocks. I don’t think I have ever had a bad beer from Germany really. Just like the Belgian beers, simply World Class

Aromas are of lemon grass, piney hops, citrus, grapefruit ,interesting tropical notes of banana, strawberry, peach notes, kiwis, mango, pineapple, light caramel, biscuit bread, slight peppery notes, light butterscotch, a bit of floral notes and mint.

The flavors are very hop forward with taste of Grapefruit, grassy, herbal and piney hops, caramel, biscuit bread, pineapple, apricot, peach, banana notes, hints strawberry, kiwi notes, mango, orange preserves or marmalade, piney, garlic, onion, Italian herbs, peppery spices, honey, toffee notes with a slight minty finish.

The aftertaste leaves hints of caramel and tropics but mainly bitter and herbal. A lot going on here to hide the alcohol. Making it refreshing and moderately drinkable

Overall better than last year but under the 15th.. What can I say, I love me that “Black IPA” complexity that hinted chocolate. I did not get the Bavarian Banana Caramel forward IPA I was thinking but that is actually fine. This is still a very good beer and is quite different from what I was expecting. In terms of IPAs, this covers almost every aspect I could think of in IPA flavors. The extent of hop varieties bring this beer to a deep complexity that would be like saying the opposite spectrum of let’s say a “super complex barrel aged quad” but mainly in terms of the hop spectrum. Meaning, of all the different types of complex flavors you can get from different amount of hops, you actually get that complexity here and way more. You got the whole range from piney, to tropical to herbal, to bready to malty, to fruity, to even the spicy and garlic side. An IPA Jack of all trades and more. Maybe something about the Pilsner malts helping it out 😛. Get this while you still can as I do not think they will release this again. It is a very awesome beer. Prost!

As follows Eschatological Ale by Stillwater Artisanal 2013

1004512_10101346420020450_310169627_n

 

Rating: 5/5

As Follows Eschatological by Stillwater Artisanal is a 9% ABV Belgian Strong Pale Ale

Label:
===========

1. To come or go after; proceed behind 2. To move along the course of; take 3. To adhere to; practice 4. To engage in (a trade or occupation); work at 5. To come after in order, time, or position 6. To occur or be evident as a consequence of 7. To grasp the meaning or logic of; understand.
==============================

I have done several reviews on this beer and still to this day, freaking awesome beer. One of my favorite Belgian Pale Ales. The 2013 version now comes in 4 packs with a different description (Belgian Style Golden Ale vs. Eschatological Ale). The beer is pretty much the same but I think the 750ml bottle had more body too it. This still does not detract from the awesome flavors this beer provides. It is more available than ever and still… mysteriously evil and creepily delicious 😛 

2012 Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/as-follows-eschatological-ale-by-stillwater-artisanal/

Mephistopheles’ Stout 2012 by Avery Brewing

600797_10101163689533810_1969873893_n 181400_10101163688875130_1511798770_nRating: 5/5

Mephistopheles’ Stout 2012 by Avery Brewing is a 16.2%ABV World Class Imperial Stout

Label: 
Mephistopheles is the crafty shape shifter, the second fallen angel; he who does not love light. Herein he patiently lies, waiting and willing to do your bidding, but for a price. Enter into his darkness, a tangled and intricate labyrinth of bittersweet rapture.

Brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, turbinado sugar, hops, and a hellion of a Belgian yeast strain.
___

Been meaning to try this one for a while. I kept passing it by the store but one of my friends recommended I give this one a shot. So here we go.

Aromas are of very rich dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, coffee, cherries, raisins, prunes, soy sauce, caramel, vanilla, tobacco, brown sugar, coffee cake, smoked malts and molasses

The flavors are very good. Despite the fact that it is at a very high ABV, it is really good. Reminds me of Old Rasputin and Chocolate oak aged Yeti with flavors or dark, milk, bakers chocolate, cherries, raisins, prunes, figs, coffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla,molasses, brownie batter, chocolate cake, chocolate syrup, anise, licorice, minor soy sauce, smoked campfire oak, chocolate cake, Belgian bread, hazelnut and earthy hop bitterness. I can pin this beer to many others I have had and this definitely is a great example of a great world class imperial stout, non barrel aged of course. This beer reminds me of a Dark Lord imperial stout if it was more smoked and had Belgian characteristics. I definitely recommend this one for sure. If you are able to find this, get this for sure. While it is is seasonal, it is actually easier to find than many other beers of this caliber which are harder to find. This is my third Avery beer I have tried and it definitely makes me want to try their other awesome beers.

As follows Eschatological Ale by Stillwater Artisanal

Rating: 5/5

The End is near. What you face here is the beginning of the end. If you thought you were a bad ass before, well forget it. The end comes to those whose time is up. If it really is true about the whole 2012 deal then this is what this ale is all about. Even if it doesn’t happen, there is always a free for all between who is gonna keep your soul. Only chance you got is how you lead your life. Whether God or the Devil…who will be the higher bidder?…If you believe that stuff of course..meaning you either go to heaven or hell and all. As Follows by definition as stated in the bottle means

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1. To come or go after; proceed behind 2. To move along the course of; take 3. To adhere to; practice 4. To engage in (a trade or occupation); work at 5. To come after in order, time, or position 6. To occur or be evident as a consequence of 7. To grasp the meaning or logic of; understand. 
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This means that if things will end then the the time will come whether you like it or not. Whatever meaning you choose to grasp it is irrelevant in the perception of others. What matters is what you choose to make out of it. As Follows by Stillwater Artisanal is a Belgian Pale Eschatological Ale at 9%ABV. Eschatological as in the study of the apocalypse. This brew is made to celebrate Stillwater Artisanal’s Anniversary 2 year anniversary where they first poured the very first Stateside Saison in Baltimore Maryland. Also celebrating the end of the world as who knows if he will be able to brew up anymore beers after this year ends…if the Apocalyptic stories of the Mayan calendar are true of course. I am sure zombies enjoy good beer too, they won’t pass up any good ones like these. I know I wont >:P….. SO about this beer….Evil and disturbing as the bottle may look, we have to take in the abstract art as art. Take the taste and experience once sip at a time. When I first opened this bottle, I was rushed with a lot of hoppy bread and floral honey fragrances. They say the devils water it ain’t so sweet. Whoever was drinking that stuff may not have been this stuff. It is a mix of sweet and minor bitterness. Mild citrus, piney, and grassy notes followed by honey, bready saison, peach, mangos and flowers as well as some other spices. It is like taking an IPA and aging it with fruits and yeast. Simply remarkable. If really is gonna be the end of the world, I would drink a glass of Judgment Day Ale, followed by Eschatological ale and finish with Trois Pistoles. Reminds me of the movie Scanner darkly where Freck was told all his sins for all eternity…and in the end he though “At least I had a good wine”…except for me…”At least I finished off with a good beer”…maybe Ill be told all my good deeds since I tell my friends about good beers 😉

Art of Darkness by Ommegang *6 month version

Rating: 5/5 *6 month version2012 (6 months later)

Art of Darkness by Ommegang is an 8.9% Belgian Dark Ale. What can I say, this is the third time I try this beer. I enjoyed it so much I took 2 bottles and started to aged them. I have one aging right now but decided to try the 6 month version. As I had mentioned before, this one is on my list of favorite beers ever. Reminding me of the Thirteenth Hour Stout. Taste more like Stout if it was hybrid with Troise Pistoles and St. Bernardus. Now the thing is, now the chocolate and dulce de leche bread are pushing through further and further. Looks like maturation is starting to make the ABV higher but also bringing forth more sweetness along side with the dark Belgian fruits like the plums, raisins, prunes and cherries. I will probably hold off on this beer for several years and see where it goes. 2012 (Earlier Review)

So it comes down to this huh?? Dabbling with things that should not be dabbled with. But what can one achieve with finding something beyond the taboo of brewing?? Well if anything, hope you don’t get cursed along the way >:)… So for those that may not want to dabble in darkness… I took it upon myself to try this beer before it hit the stores. In fact this beer isn’t even set to release until April 2012. Let’s just say I got the hookups. This is … Art of Darkness Belgian Dark Ale. It is a brew at 8.9% ABV made by Ommegang brewing. A homage to the dark arts of brewing some of the best dark beers in the world. A la Troise Pistoles, Thirteenth Hour Stout, Terrible, St Bernardus 12, Westvleteren, etc. Baler and wheat malts combine with flaked oats, Ommegang yeast and noble hops. Even though the beer is has no secret ingridients like eye of newt or special incantations. The theory is simple, the flavor is complex and delicious. I think I shoul start by mentioning that this beers is much like the Thirteenth hour stout, devils chocolate cake/bread.It follows vanilla and faint grassy citrus bitterness. The sweetness overwhelms both the the after taste and the boozy alcohol feel.Some raisins and licorice flavors are present in there as well. Overall it wants to fit somewhere in the middle of the triangle that composes the best beers in the world for me, Trois Pistoles, St. Bernardus abt 12 and Thirteenth hour. However, it does go toe to toe with the Three philosophers as well except one is cherry bread and the other is chocolate. This Devil’s water is damn sweet, and if you would want to dable at this fine masterpiece…well…good luck >:]

Black Xantus Imperial Stout by Nectar Ales/Firestone Walker

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Rating: 5/5 

Black Xantus Imperial Stout by Nectar Ales/Firestone Walker is one of my favorite all time beer. The first batch was Christmas 2010 in remembrance of my beloved mother. I remember that day since I had aged the ale for about a year to increase the alcohol content from 11% to 13%. I am actually doing so again and will have what will be my 3rd batch along with my friend Chino and his bro. Since this beer is hard to find, I was able to find it once again and did not dare miss out on the opportunity to try the beer as is at 11% alcohol. I wanted to see how things have changed since I first started getting into different beers. This beer has been with me since Lost Abbey so I figured now that I am more rounded in the arts of taste, I had to try the beer again to see what my taste buds can find. To start off, this beer is made with roasted malts and actual Mexican Jobella coffee beans. Where most stouts get the chocolate/coffee flavors from roasted malts, the nice dark expresso like flavors comes is nice and strong, just like I remember. Bourbon and Vanilla flavors are actually in this beer as well as flavors of dark cherries, plums, blackberries and other dark fruits. There is alot of hoppy yet nice bitterness to the brew that hits you good inside. Very unique beer and a simple yet most important treasure of mine. The original bottle still stands in my wooden book shelve next to my Lost Abbey art collection. I can’t wait to try the 13% over all aged one. This beer is a dessert beer and is best had with a chocolate cake. I will knock you out like it did to me back in 2010….LOL since I found this beer hidden at the Bevmo, I sure as hell did not want to pass the opportunity to try it once more before diving head on to the 13% one which will knock me out..but it is SOOOOOOOO WORTH IT….