Rating: 6/6
Artwork Credit:
http://splashbrush.tumblr.com/
Rating: 6/6
Botanicals & Barrels Series: Coconut Porter by Avery Brewing is a 10.4% ABV Imperial Porter with Coconut aged in bourbon barrels.
Label:
Copious quantities of coconut coupled with time basking in bourbon barrels complement the chocolaty and sumptuous nature of this delectable porter.
==Introduction==
I obtained this one at Mr. K’s Liquor which is in front of the Bruery. This series has been something I have been considering trying and bringing them to the site as I find them. Since the time I tried the Vanilla Bourbon stout, the ones I see come out have been amazing. This one aged in bourbon with coconut seems to be like its gonna be amazing, or at least from what others are saying about this beer. Avery has always made some freaking awesome beers so I would not expect anything less. Let’s have a look, cheers!
Aromas:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, vanilla, oak, cookies, cherries, bourbon, Danish cream, Baley’s Irish cream, toasted coconut, banana cream pie, macaroons, cocada coconut Mexican candy, crème brulee, dark fruits and cookie dough.
Flavors:
Coconut and banana cream pie, almond joy, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, vanilla, oak, bourbon, grilled bananas, whipped cream, toasted coconut, cookie dough ice cream, cookies and cream, chocolate chip cookies, Cocada Coconut Mexican candy, Macaroons, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherry cake, fruit cake, crème brulee, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, Danish cream, Baley’s Irish cream, hints of piña colada, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and 3 leches chocolate cake.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with smooth toasted coconut, vanilla, bourbon, caramel, dark fruit, oak, chocolate, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard, bananas and crème brulee hints. No alcohol in the taste, Dark full body, syrupy, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Damn exceptional! With many of the coconut bourbon stouts I have had before, many have certain things more forward than others. This one mixes the best part of the bourbon with the banana and marshmallow oak parts that come from the process and the coconut creating something that is similar to coconut cream pie. The mix is absolutely amazing. Avery has always made great beers and this is nothing short of a must have. I highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Midori from Space Patrol Luluco was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the colors of the label but also how the use coconut can be seen as tropical. So with the summer starting, it is time for the bathing suit weather. School and work is out for some people and usually time to have fun in the sun. So with Midori, it fit in my mind.
Sources:
http://doujin-doujin.com/wp-content/gallery/daw_savetheworld24/0Image00001.jpg
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/05/14/21/02/02/56879902_p0.png
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/04/16/02/02/28/56370879_p0.png
https://ii.yuki.la/a/99/27cfeac958dfda53a7e689381456b41e371c17117dfbb0f966862596b4b7799a.png
Rating: 5.35/6
Botanicals & Barrels Series: Tangerine Quad by Avery Brewing is an 10.1% ABV Belgian Quadruple with Tangerine Peel aged in bourbon barrels.
Label:
Citrus Tangerina
Patiently aged in the finest of Bourbon barrels, this bold Belgian-style Quadrupel layers notes of rich, dark fruit, vanilla, and caramel with a burst of tangerine peel culminating in the vibrancy of this full-bodied creation.
Brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, imported Belgian Specialty malted barley, dark Belgian candy sugar, tangerine peel, hops, and Belgian yeast.
==Introduction==
When I first saw this I thought it was an awesome idea. I am always open to try one of my favorite styles of beer done by different breweries. Especially barrel aged versions of them. This one was a recent release to the Botanicals & Barrels Series by Avery. The only other brew from this series I have tried was the Vanilla Stout aged in Bourbon. That was one was very awesome. I can only hope this one does the same for me. Let’s take a look, cheers!
Aromas:
Dark candy sugar, caramel, dark fruit raisins, figs, plum, dates, oranges, tangerines, hazelnut, toffee, rye bread, butterscotch, marshmallows, graham crackers, bananas, clove spice, fruit cake, vanilla, oak hints, bourbon, lemon hints, stone fruits and mild coconut.
Flavors:
Rich Tangerines, tangerine gummies, Dark candy sugar, caramel, oak, toasted coconut, bourbon, vanilla, marshmallow smores, pecan, pie, dark fruit raisins, figs, plum, dates, fruit cake, cinnamon, raw sun oranges, old orange notes, lemon peel, kumquats, stone fruit peach, apricot, banana hints, clove spice hints, rye bread, toasted bread, toffee, butterscotch and hazelnut hints.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich with citrus, caramel, dark fruit hints, hints of oak, bourbon, rye bread, banana hints and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, crimson amber clear body, smooth, creamy, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A bit exceptional quad simply due to the transformation given off of the tangerines and the bourbon barrel aging process. While I think the brew is damn awesome and very complex, essentially the brew does have some downsides from being a perfect exceptional brew. For starters, the tangerine, while very delicious, overwhelms the rest of the flavors. The others do come up but not in a balanced way the way other quads do. It is still very ridiculously awesome. I still highly recommend it if you love quads so you can give it a try.
Anime Corner:
Seras Victoria from Hellsing was chosen in this pairing because I wanted some dark fruit colors and religious influences to pair with the style of the brew. The Orange hair was for the Tangerines. Essentially, the show is about using the powers of Alucard under the control of the Vatican to vanquish monsters and demons from the world of the living. Seras essentially was turned immortal by Alucard so she wouldn’t die but it also changed her as well. So in this pairing, I tried to get the colors to fit with the amber and crimson colors of this quad and the flavors amplified with dark fruits and tangerines. Also, bourbon barrel aging would denote their power.
Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/HELLSING.full.756830.jpg
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2014-11-13-686293.jpeg
http://www.animextremist.com/imagenes/hellsing/hellsing30.jpg
http://randomarchive.com/data/b/image/1456/955/1456955587313.jpg
Rating: 6/6
Botanicals & Barrels Series: Vanilla Bean Stout by Avery Brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout with vanilla beans aged in bourbon barrels.
Label:
A double dose of vanilla derived from both fresh Bourbon barrels and the trio of Tongan, Ugandan, and Mexican whole vanilla beans is complemented by the essences of chocolate, caramel and molasses to round out this luxurious silky stout.
==Introduction==
I have heard great things about this brew. There have been many times that I had the opportunity to grab it but didn’t passing it up for other beers. Now that I saw it once again, I decided to bring it to the site. I have tried many vanilla stouts and barrel aged vanilla stout. Some are more awesome than others but generally, they are all definitely very good. It is not often I have vanilla stouts by themselves as sometimes you will have your vanilla bean and cacao nib beers that are very delicious but plain vanilla is definitely a great feat. Especially when trying to make beers like flan or crème brulee like. Let’s see how far this one will go, cheers!
Aromas:
Lots of vanilla, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, fruit cake, brown sugar, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, cinnamon, coffee, mocha, rye bread and molasses.
Flavors:
Rich vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bananas, clove spice, plantains, mint chocolate chip ice cream, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, hazelnut nectar, maple notes, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, coffee, mocha, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal cookies, almond joy chocolate, vanilla and chocolate brownies, fruit cake, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone hints, hazelnut nectar, macadamia nuts and chocolate cherry cordials.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with smooth vanilla, bourbon, toffee, caramel, dark fruit, oak, chocolate, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard and crème brulee hints. No alcohol in the taste, Dark full body, syrupy, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Exceptional vanilla decadent beer. Lots of vanilla, complex and balanced flavors and not too over powering. It can be soft at times and is not too sweet either. Almost like a semi sweet ice cream. Then again most craft beers are like liquid ice cream in general. This one is no exception to the rule. Very enjoyable brew for all BBA brew lovers. I highly recommend it.
Anime Corner:
Rogue/Anna Marie from Marvel’s X-men was chosen for this pairing mainly to go with the colors of the label with the green, white, yellow and red. Her hair colors pairs well with the vanilla plant from the picture shown on the label. I figured this would make a nice pairing by just getting the colors right. Also, Rogue is a character that absorbs people’s strength, memories and powers. Basically, this beer will own you!
Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6d/c7/7d/6dc77d95fb3628ff685bb31d90548d15.jpg
http://65.media.tumblr.com/05c284d4df2a9b5a3fc6effc0028820e/tumblr_o75dpwtems1sxptq1o1_500.jpg
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/7677d-16.jpg
Rating: 5.5/6
Ale to the Chief! By Avery brewing is an 8.1 ABV American Strong Ale.
Label:
A Presidential Pale Ale to celebrate Inauguration Day, January 20, 2017
We the Brewers of Avery Brewing Company, in order to form a more perfect ale, require a new leadership that can liberate us from our quagmires in foreign lands; embrace environmentally sound energy alternatives to imported oil; heal our ailing health care system; free us from tyrannical debt and resurrect the collapsing dollar. We hereby pledge to provide him or her with an ample amount of our Presidential Pale Ale to support in the struggle for the aforementioned goals! Hail to the New Chief!
Not an “Imperial” pale ale, this is a democracy. It’s Presidential! Take the all-American pale ale, a bipartisan blend of malt and hops, increase to both Avery Brewing standards, and then, of course, dry hop the result with that most quintessential of American hops, Cascades, and you get this… Ale to the Chief. A brew worthy of the Oval Office! Brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, hops and yeast.
==Introduction==
Released every 4 years, this is the first time I try this beer and one I have not heard of before. The fact that it comes out every 4 years to go with the elections is quite the tribute. While I don’t like to express my political views, this beer is nice to see who will be the next president of the United States. An interesting reason to make a beer but I think different things in life should be celebrated in the name of beer. Now, let’s take a look and see if this beer is worth the 4 year wait. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tropical fruit mango, dragon fruit, papaya, guava, pickley pears, raspberry, citrus, grassy, grape fruit and earthy hops, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, leather, berry, starburst, oak, leather, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, figs, prunes, dark cherries, currants and bananas.
Flavors:
Caramel, vanilla, Biscuit bread, citrus, grassy, grape fruit and earthy hops, orange peel, toasted grains, Bananas, plantains, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, figs, prunes, dark cherries, currants, strawberry short cake, Tropical fruit mango, dragon fruit, papaya, guava, membrillo guava cake, pickley pears, raspberry, coffee cake, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, leather, oak, rye bread, tangerine gummies and berry starburst.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich banana and orange flavor, grapefruit, biscuit bread, vanilla, and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, crimson clear body, clean, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Exceptionally delicious. A blend of pale ale, Barleywine and American dark strong brew is the only I can describe this one. You have a great mix of hops, an array for light to dark fruits, caramels and other dessert sweets. In some cases, like Barleywines and old ales, the malt over takes the hops but this one has a strong enough hop forward presence that makes it balanced. Once that I will need to find again and one I highly recommend you find too!
Anime Corner:
Ryuuko Matoi from Kill La Kill was chosen in this pairing since I wanted to go with a character who is one major bad ass and a leader of her own series. Ryuuko For President! Essentially. She gets things done and doesn’t look back for such a bold and strong and yet balanced character to pair with a beer like this was something I had to choose. Besides, she’s a favorite of mine so no questions there. She looks like a queen on her throne.
Sources:
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Kill-la-Kill-Matoi-Ryuuko-ecchi-1662545.jpeg
http://67.media.tumblr.com/5f2a7f7cd4d6a85d31d73051695ff197/tumblr_nh8y68NmZB1raxgepo1_1280.jpg
Rating: 5.5/5
Batch# 8 Collaboration Not Litigation, A collaboration between Avery and Russian River brewing is a 8.9% ABV Belgian Dark Strong Cuvee of Avery Salvation and Russian River Salvation.
Label:
Salvation. The name of two intricate Belgian-style ales, created by us, Vinnie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing and Adam Avery of Avery Brewing.
After becoming friends a few years ago, we realized we both had a Salvation in our lineups. Was it going to be a problem? Should one of us relinquish the name rights? “Hell, no!” we said. In fact, it was quickly decided that we should blend the brews to catch the best qualities of each and create an even more complex and rich libation. In April 2004, in a top secret meeting at Russian River Brewing (well, actually it was packed in the pub and many were looking over our shoulders wondering what the hell was going on), we came up with the perfect blend of the two Salvations.
Natalie, Vinnie’s much more significant other, exclaimed, “We should call this Collaboration, not Litigation Ale!” “Perfect,” we shouted! We celebrated deep into the night (or is that morning?). Fast forward to November 14, 2006. After talking about it for over two years, we finally decided to pull the trigger and Vinnie made the journey to Avery Brewing to brew his Salvation exactly as he does in his brewery. This was blended with Avery’s Salvation December 11th, 2006. We hope you enjoy it as much we enjoyed brewing and blending it.
Gezonheid!
– See more at: http://averybrewing.com/collaboration-not-litigation-ale/#sthash.51OEiSKD.dpuf
==Introduction==
I obtained this one at qualityliquorstore.com. I had this beer a couple of times in the past but this is the first time I bring it forth for a review. It is about time. Collaboration not litigation started as a need to show the craft beer world that at some point, it is not about ownership over the name of a beer that people should fight over. Let bygones be bygones and combine the 2 to make a special cuvee. This is something many uppity breweries should take a lesson rather than take it legal action over trivial things such as names of beers. I feel this beer is the embodiment of that bond that many craft brewers share. Basically, the need to pursue the passion for great beer. Unfortunately, breweries going to fight against other breweries is such a pain that separates people. Anyways, that’s just my 2 cents on that. Let’s give this beer a go. Cheers!
Aromas:
Bubblegum, dark cherries, Dark fruit raisins, plums, dates, figs, currants, blackberries, Black cherry notes, Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, pecan pie, honey, cherry marzipan, citrus, Pan Dulce, grape notes, toffee, burnt sugar, cane sugar, beet sugar and capirotada raisin bread pudding.
Flavors:
Rich Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, pecan pie, Dark fruit raisins, plums, dates, figs, currants, blackberries, Black cherry notes, cherry marzipan, citrus, honey, floral hop notes, peppercorn, biscuit bread, capirotada raisin bread pudding, raspberry and strawberry preserves and jam, leather, rye, Pan Dulce, grape notes, toffee, burnt sugar, cane sugar, beet sugar, rich bananas, clove spices, hazelnut, walnut spread, Stone fruit peaches in syrup, apricots, pears, dragon fruit notes and passion fruit.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit and berry preserves, Pan Dulce, floral hop notes, cherry marzipan, citrus, stone fruits, rock candy and rich candy sugar linger. No alcohol in the taste, crimson body, moderate drinkability, slight creamy.
Overall:
Everything I love in the dark Belgian beers, Belgian quads, tripels and dubbels is in this beer. There was so much going on in this beer and it was so damn delicious. I remember from the last time I had I knew I would love to try it again from the bottle. The Belgian spirit of beer is in this beer. This one should be seeked out for sure.
Anime Corner:
Unso (PFFK) Duality from Pixiv Fantasia: Fallen Kings were used in this pairing to go with the spirit of collaboration. The original beers have their own uniqueness as you can see, even if they have the same name, represented by both of the characters looking similar kissing the birds. The colors also represent the colors of the flavors such as the dark fruits and berry flavors for example. All and all, the beers are unique but they bring their own uniqueness to the table and should not fight for over having the same name. Both brewers are a great inspiration for the craft beer world showing that instead of fighting over subtleties is not what the whole craft beer is about.
Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1691228
Rating: 4.75/5
The Czar from the Dictator Series by Avery Brewing is an 8.5% ABV Russian Imperial Stout.
Label:
Inhale the noble Hallertau hops, spicy and floral. Savor the flavors redolent of English toffee, rich mocha, sweet molasses, candied currants and a hint of anise. We highly recommend cellaring additional bottles, as the Czar will continue to mature and become denser and more complex with age.
==Introduction==
Available during the winter time, this is the first time I try this beer. I believe this is the last of the dictator series as I have tried the Kaiser, the Maharaja and now the Czar. I heard many great things about this beer so I am glad I was able to bring it here to the site. Come share with me the experience of this one as we explore another Russian Imperial Stout with the Czar himself. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, dark fruits raisins, currants, raspberry, blackberry, raisin bread pudding, molasses, smokey notes, anise, licorice, Belgian yeast bread notes, marzipan, brown sugar, pecan pie and candi sugar hints.
Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, Roasted coffee, vanilla, caramel, earthy hop notes, smokey notes, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, raspberry, plums, raisin bread pudding, molasses, brown sugar, marzipan, pecan notes, toffee, marzipan, licorice, anise, Belgian candi sugar and grapes.
Aftertaste:
Mild roastiness, dark fruit still peeking through, caramel, molasses, earthy notes and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, creamy mouthfeel, moderate to sipping drinkability and pitch black body.
Overall:
A very good stout with some prominent and complex amount of flavors. Since it is complex, the roasty and slightly smokey flavors do not dominate the the palate and are instead given way to some dark fruits. This reminds me a little bit like the Stillwater Artisanal Folklore in a sense as it somewhat drinks like a Belgian Stout but still has some roasty bitterness to balance everything out. I highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Original Character from Madou Koukaku was used in this pairing since I wanted something to fit the whole aspect of the Soviet colors of Red. The Czar wore some very fancy military and country leader attire so I figure a character that would best fit the description would best fit the bill. Even if it seems a bit old, it is similar in the attire.
Rating: 5/5
The Kaiser from the Dictator Series by Avery brewing is a 9.5% ABV World Class Imperial Märzen / Oktoberfest Lager.
Label:
MALT LIQUOR
The Kaiser once said, “Give me a woman who loves beer and I will conquer the world.” If the Kaiser and his significant other had tipped this bottle, we’d all be “sprechenden Deutsch!” We took all that is good in a traditional Oktoberfest – gorgeous, deep copper sheen, massive malty backbone and spicy, floral, pungent noble hops – then intensified each into this, an Imperial Oktoberfest.
___
Yes, so unfortunately I missed Oktoberfest this beer to attend the Black Tuesday release party. However, any time is a great time to enjoy a Märzen / Oktoberfest and this one has been an eluding one simply because I have not had a chance to find it. When I saw it this year, I knew I had to pick it up. This is an imperial Märzen / Oktoberfest so I do not know what to expect but since I have love this style I am sure this is gonna be pretty intense at 9.5% ABV. Let’s get on with this beer now, Prost!
Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, biscuit bread, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, pumpkin flesh, maple syrup, pilloncillo sugar cone, Danish Cookies, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger spice, fruit cake, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, bananas, graham crackers, trail mix and bananas.
Flavors:
Rich dulce de leche caramel, citrus, blueberry, black berry, grape and raspberry preserves, rye bread, coriander spice, bananas, Danish cookies, brown sugar, pumpkin spices, cinnamon, ginger, fruit cake, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, pilloncillo sugar cone, graham crackers, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, toffee, bananas, trail mix, leathery notes and butterscotch.
Aftertaste:
Rye bread, cinnamon, pumpkin flesh, citrus, dark fruit, berry preserves in rye bread, Danish cookies and earthy notes. Slight booziness but not detracting from the flavors, medium to full amber body, syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Damn, possibly the best Oktoberfest beer I have ever had! I think the fact that Avery uses specialty ingredients or special yeast that is like a sweet maple like flavor that I have tried in some of their other amazing beers. Well, that in combination with the style is simply rich and delicious. If this was the main Oktoberfest beer everywhere, damn, not sure how long I would be able to be like Zicke, zacke, zicke, zacke, hoi, hoi, hoi, before I pass out. Yeah this one is rich and definitely highly recommended.
Anime Corner:
Selvaria Bles from Valkyria Chronicles was used in this pairing since I wanted to get something that would pair with the Kaizer. Selvarias clothing and pose compliments that of the Kaizer in the label. The caramel sunset and color of her hair and overall artwork represents many of the flavors of the beer. The strength of a leader and general is the strength of the complexity and the ABV this beer offers.
Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/247253
Rating: 7/5
No. 22 Barrel Aged Series 5 Monks by Avery brewing is a 19.39% ABV World Class Belgian Quintuple/Sextuple Aged in Bourbon Barrels.
Label:
So yeah, it’s MUCH bigger and bolder than a quad. But the term “sextupel” seems inappropriate alongside a congregation of monks, so quintupel it is.
Bottled July 17 2014
Production 874 Cases
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Today marks the 2nd Anniversary of Brewerianimelogs and I am very happy for all my readers and fans. Thank you all for the liking the site and reading my reviews. I did a special on my 1st Anniversary long ago that is definitely worth the read if you want to know about my story and the site: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/10/17/happy-1st-brewerinanimelogs-anniversary/
As for being the the 2nd Anniversary of my website, I had to go with a special beer. Now this beer was given to me by my friend Aaron Mediola at www.beermetaldude.com in Texas and it was something that he was able to get for me at the last minute as I was unable to get it since it ran out in my local places here in California. So definitely a special thanks to Aaron, Cheers Brother!
Right next to Chocolate Rain but not including beers past 20% ABV, this is the strongest Belgian Strong Dark Ale I have ever come across or even the strongest beer for that matter. I expected nothing less from Avery. The Quintuple and Sextuple is an extremely rare style to come by. The only thing that I have tried that comes close to this style is possible Barrel Aged Quadruples (Straffe Hendrix 2011 Bourbon Barrel Aged Quad II) or even the Judgment Day Quad Aged in Oak with Cherries (Cuvee De Tomme). So for one to come out and say, this beer is a brand new style, I’ll be damned if we don’t see it here on Brewerianimelogs, the lost treasures of taste and experience. So for the special occasion, I really had to dig hard for the art work and what I really like and well, I really had to see if this beer was going to be up to expectations. I will be skeptical at first but at the same time it doesn’t help that the Belgian Quadruple is my favorite beer style ever or the fact that the Quintuple is like a 4th dimension to my 3rd dimension perspective on taste. I don’t know what to expect but wish me luck. Thought this tiny bottle of potion you may be, another existence and possibility will my senses thus see… Cheers!!
Aromas:
High dose of Rock Candy, Dark Candi Sugars, Brown Sugars, Oak, Agave like nectar, dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, cherries, Belgian chocolate dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate notes, banana cream pie, cherry pie, pecan pie, hazelnut, almond joys, honey, highly spirited liquor notes like brandy, rum, bubble gum, plantain, tres leches flan, leather, ginger bread, all spice, molasses, rocky road ice cream, flan, crème brulee, all spice, clove spice, rich banana splits, cookie dough, fruity preserves, toasted coconut, mocha, currants, port wine, grapes, agave nectar, graham cracker smores, marshmallows, chocolate truffles and boozy sugars enough to give one a sugar coma with just a whiff.
Flavors:
Extreme dose of dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, raspberries, bourbon, dulce de leche rich caramel, vanilla, oak, tres leches, banana cream pie, plantain, clove spice, grilled bananas, rock candy, candi sugars, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, toffee, leather, tobacco, toasted coconut, bubble gum, brown sugar, agave nectar, molasses, ginger bread, all spice, nutmeg, hazelnut nectar, almond joy chocolate, Belgian chocolate, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, rocky road ice cream, cookie dough, mocha, Kahlua hints, Chocolate truffles, marshmallow chocolate graham cracker smores, honey, fudge cake, cheese cake, velvet mousse, French vanilla ice cream, rye bread, biscuit bread, kiwi preserves, concord grapes, cherry pie, currants, port wine, chocolate chips, hints of brandy, hints of rum, hints of bubble gum, yum yum yum!!
Aftertaste:
Pecan pie, caramel, vanilla, bananas, dark fruits, leather notes, oak, port wine, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and rich sugary syrup lingers. Despite level of ABV, there is nothing about the alcohol that detracts from any of the flavors. This is a syrupy thick beer. Sipping drinkability, Full mouthfeel, pitch black body, hardly any head retention.
Overall:
Quite possibly, the Best Belgian Quad/Quint/Sext in existence I have ever tried. Westvleteren and St. Bernardus 12 ABT, this is certainly taking the lead guys. The saddest part about this beer is the fact that it is going to be so rare, limited and at only 12oz. It really makes me wish I had way more of this to the point where I did not want to let the last drops leave. They are a part of my soul now. I spent an entire 2 hours trying to figure out this beer as best I could and I am sure I missed some notes. I think that is how complex this beer was as the temperature kept changing. Even for 12 ozs, this was definitely a Vatican lost scroll of a relic or the holy grail of beers. This comes so far into the Bruery’s territory it ain’t even funny. If this was a 750ml, I would be dangerously in trouble. Extremely Highly recommend you get a bottle of this saintly beer. Not for those who cannot drink a highly potent beer! And Finally, to my friend Aaron, Thank you brother, this really hit on many levels. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Sora, Cloud Strife, Aya Brea, Lightning Claire Farron and Noctis Lucis Caelum from Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy VII, Parasite Eve, Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy XV respectively were the 5 chosen monks in this beer pairing. These characters have been some of the highest most popular characters in JRPG history and thus an anime pi cure with all 5 of them was something I could not deny was the perfect pairing. If you remember correctly, I have used some of these characters in some of the best beers, like Claire in Dark Lord and Aya in Hellfighter from Texas. They relate to the beer in bad assery but also in the strength and complexity that even I cannot fathom. I guess being a big fanboy, it was just the right road to take with this one. The colors, and location pair with the flavors, the label, and more. So much to describe here, you figure it out, that is your homework!!
This beer also reminds me of the hardest battle in Final Fantasy history, the 5 Judges in Final Fantasy XII. This battle was just as hard as me trying to figure out everything this magic potion/elixir had to offer…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6jPS7cFr5o
Rating: 5/5
The Reverend by Avery Brewing is a 10% ABV Belgian Quadrupel
Label:
The Holy Trinity of Ales
The reverend is a divinely complex and beautifully layered creation with hints of dark cherries, currants, and molasses, complimented by an underlying spiciness and a sinfully smooth 10% ALC/VOL.
Brewed with Rocky Mountain Water, Malted Barley. Imported Belgian Specialty malted barley, dark Belgian candy sugar, hops and yeast.
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So I finally promised myself to get a bottle of this as when I first tried it at Uncle Henry’s earlier in the year, I said I would. So, even after passing it up several times for other beers, I finally got it to bring it forward for a review here at the site. This is a great beer that is served year round. While I personally think, leave it to Belgium, this one is on top of the greatest representatives of the Belgian Quad Style. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, rich dark cherries, figs, plums, currants, belgian candy sugar, phenolic notes, clove spice, banana hints, almonds, chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, hints of hazelnut, rich rye, citrus, tobacco hints, molasses and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Lots of dark fruits, raisins, figs, currants, rich dark cherries, plums, citrus, cinnamon, clove spice, rye bread, vanilla caramel, oats, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, Belgian candy sugar, Rock candy sugar, bananas, phenolic yeast, hazelnut, pecan notes, honey, tobacco hints, almonds, hints of chocolate, apples, toffee, grapes and raisin bread pudding.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit, earthy spice, dulce de leche, almond, pecan, rye bread, earthy and clove spice notes.
Alcohol sweetness in the taste mainly but nothing detracting from the overall beer. Smooth and a bit syrupy mouth feel even for a sipping drink character with a medium to full body on an dark amber brown color. Dangerous beer.
Overall:
A perfect quad. This beer is a major reminiscent to the Surly Seviin. Definitely a lot of Belgian Candy sugar forward, with the dark fruits and rye bread mixing in but the bitterness comes from a mix of earthy and somewhat subtly citrusy notes. This quad is very enjoyable and it is a year round serving by Avery. I would definitely recommend this one for a try for sure.
Anime Corner:
Original character by jname was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the reverend. In the past, quads have always been paired with the like colors of dark fruits whether reds, purples or pinks. The power she holds in her hands is the power of the dark fruit reverend. Her dress signifies the complex Belgian flavors as well as rich candy sugars and caramels. The background is close to those of the Abbeys of Belgium paying a special tribute like that of the label, She is the Reverend possessing the power of God and will to do good in the beer world. Blessed be thy beers!
Rating: 5.2/5
Samael’s Oak Aged Ale (Batch #9) by Avery Brewing is a 16.9% ABV English Barleywine aged in Oak Barrels
Label:
Samael is the prince of demons, the angel of death, accuser and destroyer. Filled with enmity towards man, he planted the vine, the forbidden tree of paradise. Behold his venom and vengeance, both sweet and tempting, enticing you, his spellbound victim, within his wings.
Samael’s Ale is a super-caramelly, oak aged English-style strong ale. Perhaps the least hoppy (sacrilege here at Avery!!) beer we’ve brewed, to accentuate the malt. The oak is very apparent in this rich and high gravity ale, adding additional depth and complexity with a woody and cask-like nose and a pronounced vanilla flavor on the palate. This potent ale is the second installment, along with The Beast, of our “Demons of Ale Series”.
Brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, turbinado sugar, hops, yeast, and American oak chips.
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The third and possibly the last of the Demons of Ale series from Avery that I have tried. I apparently missed out on this one some time early this year. I was able to find this at the Liquor Mart in Whittier California. While it is not often I find beers I want to try that may or may not be listed in my Wanted list, it was a reasonable price for a review. At 16.9%, that is one insane Barleywine
Aromas:
Lots or caramel, toffee, burnt sugars, brown sugar, raisin hints, black berry marmalade notes, herbs, oak, vanilla, orange notes, bourbon and rum notes.
Flavors:
Rich Oak wood, earthy notes, rich leather, rich caramel, orange and blackberry preserves, raisins, toffee, burnt sugars, flan, coconut, vanilla, maple, rich rye bread, butterscotch, cereal, french toast, flan, rum, light bourbon, brandy, rich fruit cake, chocolate cereal notes, brown sugar, and rich honey.
Aftertaste:
The finish wants to end dry but there is a maple, leather, dark fruit and rich oak aftertaste with this one. A definite sipper with some boozy notes but nothing detracting from the sweet flavors.
Overall:
Exceptionally delicious beer. Strong but full of flavor. The only thing about this beer that seems to be a strong consistent theme is the oak and partial dryness it comes with. I love that part but it is kind of dangerous as you want to keep sipping more. If you love oak aged beers and Barleywines, have at this master piece.
Anime Corner:
This is a Fallen Angel designed by cushart.deviatart.com To go along with the Samael or Samuel Archangel story, this was the perfect pairing. The hair, the wings fit the label. Also, bursting from the magma shows the oak aged and burnt wood part. The fact that the beer is sweet and ends partially dry, makes one try to drink the whole bottle. It is strong and evil, just like Samael.
Rating: 5.75/5 *New title for an exceeding expectations pumpkin ale
Annual Barrel Series Batch No. 3 Rumpkin by Avery Brewing is an 18.53% ABV Imperial Pumpkin Ale brewed with pumpkin and spices aged in Rum Barrels. The strongest ABV pumpkin ale I have tried.
Label:
We wondered what would happen if a monstrous pumpkin ale, plump full of spicy gourdiness, were aged in fine fresh rum barrels to add suggestions of delicate oak and candied molasses. Rumpkin is what happened!
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A limited released that can be found online now or in some limited places. I found this at Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights California, but hell if I know if they have anymore. May or may not be the best pumpkin beer ever surpassing all the awesome barrel aged beers I have ever tried, all I know though is this one is Strong!! When beer starts to get into the 18% ABV or hell even past 13% ABV which is like the point of no return, then trying the beer alittle bit at a time to savor it is when it matters. This beer has no carbonation, nada!!
Aromas upon opening this one, there some very nice fragrances of pumpkin, ginger bread, bananas, cloves, cinnamon, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, cinnamon, coconut notes, macaroons, rum, pumpkin seeds, nutmeg, sweet yams in maple, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone in coconut icecream, molasses, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon notes, brown sugar and some dark fruits. The aromas are rich as in I don’t have to look super hard to guess an aroma. This is very good.
Flavors are very rich like the aromas. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin flesh and yams in cinnamon and maple, pecan pie, rum, ginger bread, old bananas, cloves, cinnamon, coconut cream pie, flan, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, waffle cone, chocolate notes, raisins, plums, pineapple, cherries, coconut icecream, pumpkin pie ice cream and other spices
Aftertaste stays consistent with the pumpkin, caramel, brown sugar, banana, pecan pie and rum. The alcohol has a major presence here. Not detracting from the already super complex awesomeness but it definitely is meant to be sipped, and enjoyed a little at a time.
Overall, this is probably one of the best, if not, the best pumpkin beer I have ever had. It has pretty much everything all the best pumpkin beers I have ever had have. Everything from the nose to taste is very consistent. The only thing about this one though, it is a major kicker. It warms you up like no other. I have had many 18% ABV caliber beers and even some don’t manage to warm you up this good. Not at all in a harsh way, but in a very very pleasant way. This is the type of pumpkin beer you would best enjoy right at the end of the fall nearing the winter when it starts to get a lot colder. If you can still find it, I would recommend you get this but if you cannot get it, there are other super awesome pumpkin beers out there. All it takes is a look
Isabelle Proximus (Allaverdogportrush) collaboration between Allagash, Avery, Dogfish Head, Port Brewing’s The Lost Abbey and Russian River Breweries is a 7% ABV American Wild Ale. This beers is retired and no longer brewed. This information is from an old review. It is merely a reminiscent of a time when 5 brewers did a large collaboration.
Description:
AKA Belle Proximus, a collaborative effort between Tomme Arthur, Vinnie Cilurzo, Lorenzo Dabove, Rob Tod, Adam Avery and Sam Calagione.
Label:
In March of 2006 five guys-Adam Avery, Vinnie Cilurzo, Rob Todd, Tomme Arthur accompanied Sam Calagione and Lorenzo Dabove The Prince of Pajottenland through a tour a tour of Belgium’s finiest Gueze producers. Many of the mysteries of Lambic production were answered along the way. They vowed to return to the states to brew a sour beer celebrating their experiences. In November of 2006 the reunited at Port Brewing to brew Isabelle Proximus.
In this bottle, you’ll find the answers to many of the questions that were first posed along their journey near the river Senne. However, like the mysteries of lambic beers, there remains one lingering question that was left unresolved. we hope like us, the next time you’re on a pilgrimage to Brussels you’ll drop by the Empire Club and let us know whether you prefer Green or Orange….
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As a toast to the Anniversary of my blog, I take a step back and show you an old review. Back then I never had the idea of anime and beer pairings as I do now. However, I found a picture that I think would have fit perfectly with that beer from yore. Not to mention the fact, that I may have give this one a high rating as well since this beer was made with a great collaboration effort of 5 breweries. It was one awesome beer, it was drunk at its best aging state as any longer and it would have gone bad. But here it is for your reading pleasure, my review of the Isabelle Proximus.
2011 Review:
How prestigious the occasion to try a beer such as this. I never thought it be possible. A retired beer that is extremely hard to find. Where do I begin to describe this world class oddity of beerdom. The Isabelle Proximus Wild Ale is a massive collaboration of Allaverdogportrush (better known as Allagash, Avery, Dogfish Head, Port Brewing’s Lost Abbey and Russian River Breweries….wooh thats a lot. Put it simply, this beer came out in like 2006 and was only meant to age for some time. In fact it was recommended that this be consumed by this year to get the best freshness out of it. Since I will be taking a vacation soon on beer tasting to focus working out better and eating better, I decided to celebrate my new routine with this cellar treasure. Hey you only live once, so here’s to a long life and to the memories of trying awesome beers. I will be back soon, but what I will do is beer taste in moderation as well. A hobby break but not forgotten….love this hobby …Anyways…about the beer itself. This beer is made with Wild yeast. If you read any of my other postings, wild yeast is used to make these delicious beers have a more sour, winey, like flavor which compliments its already existing ingredients such as malts and hops and other awesome things. Like the Jolly Pumpkin ales . This beer however is a little more special an magical. The balance comes from tart, refreshing and citrus taste. There is some malty sweetness (Dogfish Head) to compliment and some slight bitterness (possibly from Avery or Allagash) as well as the bready goodness (Port and Russian). Story goes that owners of the breweries took a trip to Brussels in Belgium to answer the mysteries of Lambic brews. And so in this bottle that’s what is is. Truly one of the best and most collaborated brews I have ever had and a great way to try my new routine…CHEERS GUYS !!!!!
Rating: 5/5
The Beast Grand Cru (Batch 10, 2012 edition) by Avery Brewing is a 16% ABV Belgian Strong Dark ale
Label:
The Beast is a seducer – accommodating, complicated, powerful, dark and created to last the ages. Beyond this, it’s futile to attempt to describe Him. He will unveil Himself differently to each of His followers. The mark is in His constitution. Brewed with two-row malted barley, honey malt, and imported Belgian specialty grains (aromatic, pale wheat, roasted wheat, and Special , hops (Magnum, Galena, Saaz, Hallertau, Tettnang, and Hersbrucker), brewing sugars (raisins, dates, blackstrap molasses, alfalfa honey, turbinado, and dark Belgian candy sugar), water, Belgian yeast and another hellion of a yeast strain.OG: 1.138
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Obtained from a beer trade with my good friend Richard. He definitely went out of his way to find this one. I have heard of this beer but I have never really found it. This review goes out to him. Thanks again man . The Grand Cru style is one I don’t often get to try but from the many I have tried, they have all been great. This one is no exception
Aromas are of caramel, grapes, rich strawberry and blackberry preserves, cherries, raisins, plums, candi sugar, biscuit bread, walnuts, vanilla, fruit cake, citrus and rye
The flavors are of lots of sweet forward strawberry preserves, blackberries, raisins, rye bread, caramel, pecan pie, candi sugar, cherries, fruitcake, vanilla, apricots, citrus, hints of coconut and oak
The beer is quite boozy but the flavors cover up any alcohol burn. So while you still get to feel the alcohol potency, the complex flavors help it out a lot.
Overall the beer is freaking great, strong, deliciously complex and it will take control once you finish the last drop. I would definitely recommend this one if you can find it. Also, I wish I had more bottles of this. This is too good to pass up
Rating: 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.
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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.
Rating: 5/5
The Maharaja from the Dictator Series by Avery Brewing is a 10.4%ABV Double India Pale Ale
Label:
Maharaja is derived from the sanskrit words mahat, – “great” and rajan – “king”. Much like its namesake, this imperial IPA is regal, intense and mighty. With hops and malts as his servants, he rules both with a heavy hand. The Maharaja flaunts his authority over a deranged amount of hops: tangy, vibrant and pungent along with an insane amount of malted barley – fashioning a dark amber hue and exquisite malt essence. This newest Avery Dictator completes the “Dictator Series” joining the likes of The Kaiser & The Czar. Be aware that The Maharaja is a limited release only available for the summer. Welcome to his kingdom!
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This is considered a world class IPA according to a lot of Reviews standing at 102 IBUs. Upon opening the bottle, there was very nice tropical fruit fragrance that overwhelmed. The aromas have a more sweet tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, peach, orange juice, and rich caramel base coming forward followed by the floral, grassy, piney and grapefruit hops, garlic and onion bread scent, but very nice along with some herbs and spices. The flavors are similar to the fragrance of this one which are of caramel, grassy, piney, floral, and grapefruit hops, some peach, pineapple, garlic and sweet onion bread, biscuit bread, toffee, strawberries, flowers, some peppers, herbs and other nice spices. It surely quite the DIPA. While it doesn’t focus all the way into the regions of tropics, it has enough to balance the other herbs, spices and strong hops allowing for a very bitter but extra sweet beer. It leaves off pretty dry which is interesting for 102 IBUs. Doesn’t leave a lot of bitterness so it allows you to take even more sweetness next time around. Surely a great DIPA to get and one that is best fresh!
Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore) 