2014 Grey Monday by the Bruery

June 9, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, Chocolate Nirvana, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, french vanilla ice cream, Grey Monday, Hazelnut Nectar, Imperial Stout, Kutchiki Rukia, Maple Syrup, molecular gastronomy, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut, roasted hazelnuts, Rukia, The Bruery, world beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2014 Grey Monday by the Bruery is an 18.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Hazelnuts.

Label:
JUST ONE SHADE
Originally brewed for a molecular gastronomy dinner at Beachwood BBQ, this decadent version of Black Tuesday is brewed with Oregon grown, roasted hazelnuts.

Grey Monday is just the beer you need to kickstart your week and is meant for sharing with family and friends in your time of need. It will age gracefully for many decades of economic fluctuations. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55°F (13° C) Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass.
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So we meet again, the once lost Grey Monday which I had tried in 2012 and now I was able to get a Reserve bottle in 2014 from the Bruery. That is the only place you can get this unless you do a trade. Along the lines of Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain, White Chocolate, Wineification/Mardi Rouge, Mocha Wednesday, Melange 3 and many more, Grey Monday stands in one of the highest categories of beers that I have ever tried. It is very ridiculously delicious just like all the variants before it. Before I continue to review this great beer once again, I may be biased as I already know it is a great beer and definitely one that is highly recommended. Cheers!

Aromas:
Very Rich Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, pralines, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut nectar, Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, dark cherries, flan, bourbon, maple syrup, honey, chocolate cheesecake, toffee, vanilla, oak, crème brulee, french vanilla ice cream, toasted walnuts, macadamia nuts, cashew, nutella, marshmallows, toasted coconut, brown sugar, cinnamon toast, bananas, anise, smores, rocky road ice cream and more.

Flavors:
Rich Hazelnut nectar and chocolate on grilled bananas with flan, pecan pie, pralines, maple syrup, honey, chocolate cheesecake, toffee, dark cherries, strawberry, peach, dark fruit raisins, plums, anise, currants, chocolate port wine notes, almond joy, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, chocolate chip cookie dough, toasted coconut, marshmallow and graham cracker smores, cinnamon toast, anise, brown sugar, chocolate milk shake, fudge cake, and mocha, all with some scoops of french vanilla ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Rich hazelnut nectar, oak, vanilla, bourbon, chocolate, pecan pie, cherry, flan, maple and caramel just linger and linger infinitely. So Good that you will take your time with it or at least try to. The alcohol is quickly masked by the complex flavors that you don’t even taste it. This is very dangerous too as it is a very very smooth but sipping beer with a silky and syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
No surprise here, my expectations were met and the extra credit chart went through the roof. I knew this was gonna be just as good as when I first tried. I have no idea how the Bruery does it. They are crazy to make these beers so delicious. They surely defy and truly show just how far a beer can go. Were talking past the liquor and wine category, has evolved into what it was meant to be. I sincerely hope you can try this beer or any of the other Bruery beers like Black Tuesday.

Anime Corner:
Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach in her prestigious and beautiful Bankai form awaits the light of the new Monday, the Grey Monday. She is on the horizon displaying her new power and rightfully so as her character has gone through many many struggles. Throughout the entire series, she is second to the protagonist and while yes this may be a spoiler for many, she does make it. She achieves a form that takes her to new heights of existence. Rightfully so, as powerful in ABV as this beer is, it is also sweet, just like sweet little Rukia. Rukia, just like Grey Monday, evolve into great heights of where only few beers can take people. The sweet nectar of gods like this can only be bestowed on the few, like Rukia who trained with gods, literally, she now holds her own against the final threats of the series. As the series comes closer and closer to the end, this new form will unleash its fury of absolute 0 degrees Kelvin. Only the next day that comes can melt the ice and melt one’s heart as they try this beer.

Sources:
http://stingcunha.deviantart.com/art/Bleach-570-Rukia-s-Bankai-436885263
http://www.zerochan.net/1681342

Mogli by Caldera Brewing

May 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, bakers chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Cacao Chocolate Porter, Caldera brewing, Candi Sugars, Chocolate, Chocolate Porter, Imperial Porter, Mogli, oak barrels, White Chocolate, World class, World Class Imperial Porter | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Mogli by Caldera Brewing is an 8.5% ABV World Class Imperial Porter Aged in Oak Barrels with Chocolate.

Label:
Caldera’s “Mogli” was inspired by the loss of a dear friend. This is a chocolate, oak-aged Imperial Porter. Mogli is complex, sweet, chocolatey, big and full of unconditional love! Sit, Stay, roll over, cookies? Malt beverage brewed with natural flavor. If ever in Ashland, Oregon, come by and check out the Caldera Tap House. Located 31 Water Street.

Served in a 10 ounce wine glass. Malts: Premium Two Row, Crystal, Munich, Brown, Pale Chocolate, Chocolate, Dark Belgian Candi Sugar, Natural Chocolate, Bourbon-Soaked Oak Spirals; Hops: Galena, Willamette; ABV: 8.5%, IBU: 55, SRM: 55.0
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From the Caldera Kettle Series ~ Limited Small Batch Release, Mogli is a beer I have been passing up for the longest time. I guess it wasn’t until recently when I read the label that this beer was made for the loss of one of the brewer’s pet that I was like awe man, this is cute. I definitely had to try it. Now, without further ado, here is Mogli!

Aromas:
Rich Milk, dark and bakers Chocolate, chocolate yoohoo, plantain bananas, rich vanilla, blackberries, blue berry muffins, hints of oak, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, cocoa powder, cocoa krispies, peanut butter, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough, dark fruits figs and dates, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, hints of coconut, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow, white chocolate, mocha and notes of Kahlua.

Flavors:
Very Rich Milk, dark, bakers and Yoohoo Chocolate covered blueberries, blackberries, Chocolate Cheese cake, Banana Flan, maple grilled plantains, White Russian, White Chocolate, rich vanilla, oak, bourbon, blueberry muffins, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, figs and dates, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, marshmallow, oatmeal cookie dough, rocky road ice cream, oreo cookies, peanut butter, cocoa krispies, cocoa powder, chocolate cordial cherries, fudge cake, coffee cake, brown sugar and rum.

Aftertaste:
Lingering rich chocolate, banana and dark fruit complexities with hints of vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste. A sipping beer with a smoothness that can be described like drinking chocolate milkshake. Medium mouthfeel and very creamy.

Overall:
HOLY SHIT! I love this beer! I definitely have a new favorite. Who would have thought that for beer that is not as coveted as many other well known beers, that this one literally takes the cake, or atleast a huge chunk of chocolate cake. I got this beauty at Ramirez but I have seen it in many places like total wine. I believe they release this almost every year so without a shadow of a doubt, a highly recommended must try. I think what really does this one in is the chocolate and the other ingredients it shows it is made from.

Anime Corner:
Original artwork by Saintversa and allinix of Deviant art were used in this pairing mainly because of the colors and the label. Blue Green or Teal is my favorite color but I mainly wanted to show a black canine as I am unable to find many good pictures to pair these beers with. I take a gut feeling and usually take a perspective when choosing these. In terms of chocolate and dark beer, I felt this was perfect because I wanted to show guilty pleasure and unconditional love, in whatever form it may be for the loss of a pet. Hence why the canine anthropomorphic pictures are hard to see. Especially since anthropomorphic I guess in the “Furry world” (Don’t quote me on this, I am not a Furry) is the dividing line between man and animal or maninal. Essentially I am trying to say how pets are part of a family and we love them as such. Either way, this beer is very special and pleasant that you have to try it!

Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

April 30, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 6th Anniversary Ale, aged in Bourbon Barrels, anniversary ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, burnt sugar, Dark Cherries, Iron, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Old Ale, scotch whiskey, Sucre, Sugar, The Bruery | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/5

Sucré (6th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 16.9% ABV Old Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
This sturdy beer marks our sixth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (ratebeer.com)
Sucré is our sixth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain and then blended using the solera method.

A portion of each of our anniversary ales is saved in our barrels and blended in with the next year’s production, providing more complexity and depth of character that comes with aged. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, Sucré is a robust ale, surely the perfect beer to mark this major milestone.
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Sucré or Sugar in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 6th year in which Iron or sugar are given. The beer will be released in May and will be available to the public and many places where the Bruery beers are sold. Every year’s addition of the first ale to the new batch gives it another great layer complexity as you the the original ale that is 6 years old and the new young batch all together using the Solera method as explained in the description. Every year since Fruet, their 4rd Anniversary when I first tried their beers, I have anticipated each release anxiously. It is with great pleasure that I show you, the newest batch and the newest review of the Bruery’s Anniversary beer. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Exquisite dulce de leche caramel on bananas, flan, rich dark cherries, pecan pie, dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dates, wine grapes, apples, sweetened condenced milk, pilloncillo, crème brulee, toffee, roasted coconut, bourbon, oak, dark and milk chocolate, burnt sugar, candy sugar, brown sugar, marshmallow, graham crackers, rum notes, raspberry chambord, molasses, mousse, scotch whiskey, maple syrup, waffle cone and chocolate truffle ice cream.

Flavors:
Lots of rich Dulce de leche caramel, bananas, clove spice, dark cherries, rum notes, bourbon, vanilla, brown sugar, plantains, pilloncillo sugar cone, apples, peaches, apricot, pecan pie, whipped cream, marshmallow, toasted coconut, oak, milk chocolate, raspberry chambord, wine grapes, waffle cone, chocolate mousse, molasses, scotch whiskey, maple syrup, graham crackers, toffee, candy sugar, chocolate truffle ice cream, raisin bread pudding, rye, burnt sugar, butterscotch and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Caramel, dark fruit raisins, cherries, lingering scotch bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows,
A bit of alcohol in the taste but nothing detracting, sipping drinkability with a bit of a medium silky mouth feel.

Overall:
Something about this year’s version has stronger hints of cherry, flan, bananas, caramel and sugars. It is hard to tell but the beer is phenomenal and exceeds my expectations even more than Bois did. I wish I could compare the vertical so far and see maybe where this one lies in comparison to the rest. Makes me wonder what will happen maybe 10 years from now and how amazing that will taste. Either way, as I have said it before with these annual releases, there is not much I don’t have to say, just go get the beer and see for yourself how this one goes. You are in for a treat!

Anime Corner:
Mari Illustrious Mikinami from Neon Genesis Evangelion was chosen for this release like Asuka and Rei were chosen for the previous 2. I wanted to show case not just the next release as following them but also how she relates to the beer. Mari has the colors or pink and gray which represent the Sugar and Iron. This is by pink relating to the delicious cherry which is pretty much sweet like sugar. The caramel aspect is the velvety brown locks of hair. Her glasses represent the maturity of the beer which has evolved from 15% from last years to a now 16.7% ABV. She is very very suductive, like this beer is so sweet that you may want to keep on drinking it, but don’t finish her off or you not only will regret it, she will knock you out, literally. Her strength and complexity can be shown in her skills as a pilot of the Evangelion mechs in the show. You would probably have to see the show for it to make sense, but just like you can’t see how good this beer just by looking at it, you will have to experience the beer for yourself and decide!

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

March 22, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Asmodeus, Black Xantus, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Firestone Walker, Jobella Coffee, oak barrels, Shinra Banshou, Wine Barrels | 1 Comment

Rating: 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%
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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!

Mocha Wednesday by The Bruery

February 19, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Rain, coffee, Coffee Beans, Grey Monday, Kahlua, Konan, Kopi Luwak, Melange 3, Mocha, mocha coffee, Mocha Wednesday, Naruto, Portola Coffee Lab, TCHO Cacao nibs, The Bruery, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Mocha Wednesday by The Bruery is a 19.2% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Coffee and Cacao Nibs aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
MORNING AFTER

This exquisite version of Black Tuesday is brewed with TCHO cacao nibs and coffee beans from Portola Coffee Lab.

Mocha Wednesday is a perfect follow up to a Black Tuesday. This invigorationg ale will age gracefully if cellared properly, but the both chocolate and freshly ground coffee flavors will be most prominent when consumed fresh.
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Fucken right, the only beer this year from the stupidly exclusive and expensive hoarders society of the Bruery I was able to obtain thanks to a great donation. You will most likely have to trade or spend a grip of money on this rarity of rares. Black Tuesday, Grey Monday, White Chocolate, Chocolate Rain and Melange #3 have been my top favorite Bruery beers and today on this very Wednesday, a Mocha Wednesday, I contribute this beauty to the reviews. Thank you so much mystery person for the generous donation. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Alesmith Kopi Luwak coffee aroma complexity, rich mocha coffee, espresso, roasted coffee beans, Kahlua, dark, Belgian, German, sweet, bitter, milk, fudge and baker’s chocolates, bourbon, Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, hazel nuts, pecan pie, Bailey’s Irish cream, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, cherries, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, fudge, chocolate chip cookies, molasses, oak, earthy notes, brown sugar, mint, anise and toasted coconut.

Flavors:
Toasted coconut, Kahlua, mocha, java, espresso beans, Kopi luwak coffee, dark, Belgian, German, sweet, bitter, milk, fudge and baker’s chocolates as in the aromas, dark fruits like currants, cherries, raspberries, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, cherries, almond joy chocolate, See’s coffee candy, brown sugar, chocolate mocha flan, coffee cake, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla beans, oak, bourbon, rum, Bailey’s Irish cream, cookies and cream ice cream, anise, mint chocolate ice cream, pecan pie, hazelnuts, maple syrup, earthy chocolate sugar notes, tobacco, roasted cashews, mocha syrup and more chocolate, damn!

Aftertaste:
Lots of Kahlua coffee. You know the alcohol is there but all you taste is sugary sweet Frappucino and coffee to the point where you can’t sense it until it is too late. A major sipping chocolate mocha syrupy mouth feel beer, but scarily, a smooth beer as well. This beer is no joke.

Overall:
Holy Shit, this kicks a lot of the best coffee beers right in the nuts. I think this is really the best damn coffee beer I have ever had with Alesmith Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout being the second runner up. This definitely is a warming welcome to the already great line up of Bruery beers specifically the ones I had mentioned earlier in my post. No doubt about it, it is not as chocolatey as Chocolate Rain, but the consistency and the coffee to give it a complex coffee-mocha flavor that makes it extremely unique. Something like this is what meets the highest expectation exceeding criteria that I look for in some of the best beers in the world. A rarity, but a lovely beer just the same. That and at 19.2% is the 3rd highest ABV I have ever tried next to Chocolate Rain and Tactical Nuclear Penguin (32% ABV although too harsh).

Anime Corner:
I looked for a couple of days figuring out which character to choose and after watching Naruto this past weekend, who else can actually make a great pairing but the 3rd Akatsuki Rogue Ninja leader and one of the top female ninjas in the series (next to Temari ofcourse), Konan of Amegakure. The alcohol shows her unique strength. The perfect pairing idea came from the label and a need to find one of my favorite characters to fit. Her blue hair and hazelnut eyes fit perfect with the beer label colors. Her strength is not the only thing that matters, but the rich sweet aspects of her flavors characterizes the deep love she has for her friends Nagato and Yahiko (Also known as Pain). The rarity of this beer is the rarity of her discipline. For the smallest times you do get to see her fight, she is a bad ass ninja. Hence the reason her smoothness and seduction will make you pay greatly later on if you try to consume her in one sitting. Patience is virtue!! Aside from these aspects, if you know this character or can even guess, what other aspects of this pairing compliment each other?

Coronado Collection series Barrel Aged Stupid Stout by Coronado Brewing

February 18, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged american oak barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Coronado, Coronado Brewing, Coronado Collection, dark fruits, Imperial Stout, Stupid Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Coronado Collection series Barrel Aged Stupid Stout by Coronado Brewing is a 9.8% ABV Imperial Stout aged in oak bourbon barrels.

Label:
The “Coronado Collection” is the limited release of our barrel aged liquid treasures. 2013 Release #3: Stupid Stout Imperial Stout aged in oak bourbon barrels.
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I picked this up at the local Downey liquor store. I have tried a Coronado collaboration and the Coronado Red ale but to try something like this is pretty special as I have never had any of their barrel aged stuff. They sure put an emphasis on the mermaid. I love Barrel aged beers but each one better than others and some which are just out of this world.

Aromas:
Bourbon, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits like currants, raisins, grapes, black berries, coffee, oak, dark chocolate, molasses, anise, dark cherry, hazelnut, mocha and toasted coconut.

Flavors:
Bourbon, dark fruits like currants, raisins, grapes, blackberries, dark cherries, mocha, coffee, vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate, tobacco, molasses, anise, hazelnut, flan, toasted coconut, oak, mild marshmallow smores, chocolate fudge cake and a bit of mint.

Aftertaste:
Coffee, dark fruit currants, grapes, caramel, earthy notes and oak. The alcohol is mildly present in the flavor but does not detract from the flavors. A sipping beer with a full mouth feel.

Overall:
Damn delicious, but in a different way. It may not have exceeded expectations but it is still a perfect beer. The bourbon barrel aging of this beer makes it go more towards dark fruit, anise and coffee flavors than actual bourbon complexities like a richer amount of coconut, flan, marshmallows and such. Nevertheless, still a perfect beer worth trying. This beer reminds me of Ballast Point’s Sea Monster.

Anime Corner:
This mermaid creature is an original character from the card series called Monster Collection Fujimishobo Bushiroad which was used in this pairing to represent the Coronado mermaid, the collection series to pair with the “Coronado Collection” but also the flavors of the dark fruits and currants.

2013 Quingenti series Batch no. 9 Punishment by Stone brewing

January 28, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Oak Kentucky Bourbon Barrels, bastard ale, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, jalapeño, Lilith Aensland, Morrigan Aensland, punishment, Stone Brewing, Stone Crime, Stone Punishment | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.2/5

2013 Quingenti series Batch no. 9 Punishment by Stone brewing is a 12.0% ABV Chile beer which consist of Double Bastard ale brewed with chile peppers and aged in American Oak Kentucky Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Punishment was born as Double Bastard Ale – a heavy, bitter, beast of a beer. It was already not for the timid, but with the addition of jaw-dropping quantities of freshly harvested local peppers, including mid-level-heat red and green jalapenos and ultra-hot black nagas, Caribbean red hots, Moruga scrorpions and fatalis, it morphed into a truly punishing brew.

Leads with ultra-hot and fruity chile flavors along with subtler green jalapeño notes. Intense caramel, butterscotch and bourbon flavors make a strong appearance mid-palate, and the beer finishes with a long-lasting, fiery after burn.

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For a lover of spicy foods, this is even more fucking scary than crime. I saved this bottle for several months, always looking at me, always taunting me, awaiting until the day I picked it up and reviewed. I looked at it always flipping the finger very time I closed the fridge. Today I decide to bring this one forth for a review and this may or may not be a mistake. Either way, I will try my damnest to give it a good review and pursue the fires of this hell to see what I find. Wish me luck :S.

Aromas:
Lots or fruit spices and intense hot chile aromas like habanero, piquin, jalapeño, flower notes, caramel, toffee, mild brown sugar, mild vanilla, oak, bourbon, mild marshmallow hint, cucumber, citrus, tropical fruit, but overall just lots of scary spices of different peppers.

Flavors:
Lots and lots of habanero and jalapeño pepper heat, but as I dug deeper, I could taste the hidden bastard of citrus, caramel, bourbon, oak, pizza, fancy cheese, grapefruit, herbal tea, flowers, marshmallow, very mild dark bitter chocolate cocoa plant, cucumber, toffee, old mango, minor tropics and brown sugar near the finish

Aftertaste:
Lots of oak and pepper heat. The bourbon and caramel fade quick. You are too busy trying to play down the heat to even look into finding any alcohol in this which is not detectable or my taste buds are numb. It is a very major sipping beer.

Overall:
Fuck!! It’s hot, but even for chile heads, its drinkable. Even for me who loves chiles and thought this would be a very bad idea, I think there was definitely enough sweetness to counter the heat or atleast keep some of it at bay because I could still taste some complexity. Although, the Chili comes quick with no remorse. If you do not like super hot, you will not like this beer. Ir’s tough to crack the code but if you play with this liquid fire, you will find somethings that are good about it. Do not try to finish this in one sitting, it is not worth finishing it all at once if your taste buds go numb after a couple of sips. Savor the pain, but enjoy!

Anime Corner:
Lilith and Morrigan Aensland as well as the original Artwork by Sang-heun Nam were used to pair this unholy liquid hell to show off many aspects of punishment in different context. In the first part you see a girl being punished forever having to write and write and write, lol reminds me of me trying to come up with good review pairings and explanations. As you can see, she is being punished while the stone gargoyle is kicking back sipping on expensive drink, lol I hope its beer. Then you see Lilith and Morrigan in the background tending to his every need. The second pairing shows Morrigan and Lilith in what looks to be like fire and brimstone, either resembling eternal punishment or just the suffering of the heat of how damn hot this beer is. So yea, this what I came up. Can you find any other ways Punishment pairs with these artworks?

Chocolate Rain (2014 Release) by the Bruery

January 20, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, Dulce de leche, The Bruery, vanilla beans, Yoruichi Shihouin | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/5* Just as good as ever

Chocolate Rain (2014 Release) by the Bruery is an 18.5% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with TCHO Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
MAKE IT RAIN
This decadent version of Black Tuesday is proudly brewed with TCHO cacao nibs.

Chocolate Rain began as a single cask of beer at our very first release event for Black Tuesday back in 2009 and now has a storied history of its own. This ale will age gracefully if cellared properly but will be the most prominent when consumed fresh.
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Walking 1000 miles, over 1000 life times and yet, the ultimate (diabetes in a bottle) dessert beer will always be one of my most favorite of rare beers out there. Right next to Melange3, Black Tuesday, White Chocolate, Trois Pistoles, St Bernardus 12 and Three Philosophers. This beer is released by the Bruery for their reserve society and preserve society too. There isn’t much about this beer I cannot stress enough because it really is one of my favorites, yet difficult to obtain. So anyways, here is to the review!

Aromas:
All the fragrances of the chocolate rainbow, dark, white, Belgian, German, sweet, bitter, milk, fudge and baker’s. I may have missed a couple others. Bourbon, Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toasted coconut, choco flan, crème brulee, hazel nuts, pecan pie, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, cherries, almond joy, rocky road, leche nestle sweetened condenced milk, fudge cake, coffee, mocha, Rocky road Ice cream, oreo and chocolate chip cookies, molasses, oak, earthy notes and brown sugar.

Flavors:
The utter definition of CHOCOLATE! Sweet, Belgian, dark, white, German, milk, fudge, bakers, bourbon whiskey, oak, vanilla, choco flan, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, toasted coconut, chocolate covered cherries, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, almond joy, hazelnuts, pecan pie, tobacco, leather, fudge brownies, raisins, rocky road ice cream, mocha, coffee, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, Kahlua, chocolate covered funnel cake, milk shake, black currants, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, “Willy Wonka ain’t got nothing on this Chocolate Rain” flavors!…I ran out of things to describe this epicness…

Aftertaste:
Lingering chocolate, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, brown sugar, bourbon, white fudge, chocolate fudge and more and more sugar! The alcohol is very little in the taste, but for all its worth, it doesn’t detract from any of the flavors at all and since it is 19-20% alcohol, It is in no way harsh. Sure it is a sipping beer, a dangerously sipping beer because it also has elements of smoothness. It does feel warm going down too. JEEZUUZ YES!!!. Very syrupy mouth feel, like I had mentioned in my previous review of this, boozy chocolate syrup.

Overall:
One of the top best sugary boozy chocolate syrups, I mean beers. Ever! Like I said before, there is nothing I can say about this beer but utter heaven! It could be overkill if placed in ice cream but hey, if you want Dat Dia-bee-tus! Watch out now. No joke, it is pretty sugary and utter bliss. DO NOT DRINK THIS BOTTLE IN ONE SITTNG!!, if you enjoy beers, even if it is the only one you will drink for the rest of the night, don’t do yourself the dissatisfaction. This is really a great beer and should be enjoyed a few sips at a time. Chocolate Rain!! Some stay sober, while other feel the bliss….

Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach was used in this pairing, even from the last time I tried Chocolate Rain for many reasons, aside from the fact that she is one of my favorite anime characters of all time. For starters, in the original Chocolate Rain pictures for my last review, I wanted to describe that Yoruichi as the bringer of the rain since was given a Native American outfit and she was doing a dance to make it rain, rain chocolate!! Her attitude is very caring for her friends but at the same time feisty and very seductive (Lucius Chocolate Rainbow and Vanilla added). She is one of the fastest and strongest characters in Bleach (alcohol due to Bourbon). She is a Princess but was aldo the leader of Onmitsukidō, the Secret Mobile Unit/Corps, Special Forces or Covert Ops. In other words, bad ass ninja! (Alcohol undetected, hidden, hits ya hard later on). In fact, she is so bad ass she took down several ninjas in a matter of seconds. She also has Flash speed (Shunpo) and Shunko or Flash cry (Lightning based attacks)! Which describes Chocolate Rain’s aspect of smooth drinking and you can’t have Rain without lightning. Her sexy and seductive properties can all be described above in the aromas and overall flavors of the beer. Even her outfit and being show the dark fruit flavors, the chocolate, the vanilla, the caramel, the nutty, way more. There is so much more I can go on and on about Yoruichi being the perfect pairing for this beer it ain’t even funny…

Brothers’ Reserve series Vanilla Brrrbon ’13 by Widmer Brothers

December 29, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged American Barleywine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Brothers' Reserve, Caramel, Panty, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Panty and Stocking, vanilla beans, Vanilla Brrrbon '13, Widmer Brothers, Winter Warmer | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Brothers’ Reserve series Vanilla Brrrbon ’13 by Widmer Brothers is a 10.7% ABV Winter Warmer brewed 90% with vanilla beans and aged in bourbon barrels with the last 10% being regular winter warmer ale.

Label:
Our brewers added fresh whole vanilla beans to a few select barrels of our Barrel-Aged Brrrbon ’13, an imperial version of our Brrr Seasonal Ale aged in Kentucky Bourbon barrels, for this limited edition brew. The addition of vanilla beans heightens the vanilla character imparted by the barrels, and adds a delicious layer of complexity to the beer’s oak and caramel character, making for a smooth warmer perfect for the season.

MALTS: Pale, Caramel, Carapils, Dark Chocolate
HOPS: Alchemy, Simcoe, Cascade
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Definitely wanted to try this beer as soon as I saw it. I have not tried the Brrrbon series but with vanilla beans? This I had to get it. I have only tried a few Widmer beers and have enjoyed some of them. Lets see how this one turns out

Aromas:
Vanilla, slight bourbon character, figgy, earthy and piney hops, caramel, hint of dark fruits, cinnamon and ginger bread. Not big on the aromas but that is okay

Flavors:
Flavors are of bourbon, coriander spice, citrus, grapefruit hops, vanilla, oak, rye bread, caramel, orange creamsicle, ginger bread, barleywine notes, tropical fruit hints, oak, some dark fruits and cinnamon

Aftertaste:
Citrus, caramel, vanilla, earthy hops and a bit of ginger bread. Alcohol is partially present in the taste but nothing detracting too much. A sipper at that though

Overall:
A very good beer but a different beer for sure. I am not sure because I was expecting a very caramel and vanilla beer but it is actually that and some notes that seems like IPA notes. Very peculiar but definitely not a bad beer by any means. It was inviting at that but it is interesting how the vanilla plays with the bourbon and the citrus. More like a barley wine than anything

Anime Corner:
Panty Anarchy from the Panty and Stocking series I used in this one to pair the beer label colors and vanilla flavors. Panty can be crude many times and is often getting into a lot of trouble (representing the hoppy barleywine like aspect). She is strong fighter but also loves to be very flirtatious (Strong ABV and Vanilla)

Backyard Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout by Goose Island

December 16, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Backyard Rye, Backyard Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout, black berries, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon county, Boysenberries, chocolate covered cherries, dark chocolate, Goose Island, Imperial Stout, Lily Salvatana, Marionberries, Mulberries, Rye Whiskey, Rye Whiskey Barrels, Tre Donne Crudeli, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Backyard Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout by Goose Island is a 12.7% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Mulberries, Boysenberries and Marionberries and aged in Rye Whiskey barrels

Label:
This Bourbon County release is Inspired by the berries our brewers first remember eating from the trees in their backyards. Full of the dark, spicy, and pleasantly sweet flavors, this trio of berries nicely compliments the flavors imparted from barrel resulting in a smooth, jammy stout perfect for sipping on your back porch.
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The 5th variety of the Bourbon county series I try. One with lots of berries. Like many beers, this one is coveted as well and released on Black Friday. If you want to get this one, you will have to trade or find it online. Either way, just like the other Bourbon Counties, they are a must try, even if once.

Aromas:
Deep dark chocolate covered cherries, raspberries, black berries, dark fruits, subtle bourbon, vanilla, oak, caramel, boysenberry preserves on rye bread, marshmallows, cherry flan, mocha, coffee, rocky road ice cream dark cherry and rocky road ice cream, bananas, toasted coconut and rich fancy berry desserts

Flavors:
Liquid chocolate raspberry bliss! Lots of raisins, dark cherries, boysenberries, black berries, blue berries, currants, dark chocolate, oak, marshmallow, raspberry cheesecake, banana split, lots of berry preserves on rye bread, toasted coconut, cherry chocolate cake, vanilla, rich caramel, flan, blackberry jam, molasses and more complex flavors as it develops

Aftertaste:
Slightly tart raspberries, chocolate, bourbon notes, coffee, vanilla and oak, but mainly the combination of all the berries is what truly lingers. No alcohol in the taste, a sipper, yet smooth and dangerous like the previous.

Overall:
Damn exquisite like its brethren. This on is more berry forward. Distinguishing the berries is difficult but doable. Either way, I think I love this even more than the regular BCBS. Like the “Life is Like..” beer, this would the berry mash up equivalent. Damn good and damn well worth getting if you can find this and love fruit beers.

Anime Corner:
Lily Salvatana from the Tre Donne Crudeli “Outlaw” Django was used in this pairing to represent once again, the old west in Bourbon county but also the colors and aspects of the beer. The berries found for this beer were found in a back yard. Most people in their backyards would practice shooting which is what she is doing . Her hair color is the representative of the berry flavors as well as the colors she wears, more flavors.

2013 Quingenti series Batch no. 8 Crime by Stone brewing

December 16, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged arrogant bastard, Arrogant Bastard Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chile beer, chile peppers, Darkstalkers, Double Bastard, Lilith Aensland, Morrigan Aensland, Quingenti Millilitre, Stone Brewing, Stone Crime, Stone Lukcy Bastard, Vampire Savior, World's hottest beer | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.5/5

2013 Quingenti series Batch no. 8 Crime by Stone brewing is a 9.6% ABV Chile beer which consist of Lukcy Bastard ale brewed with chile peppers and aged in bourbon barrels

Label:
On Arrogant Bastard Ales 13th birthday we threw all our bastards together—Arrogant Bastard Ale, OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale and Double Bastard Ale—to create Lukcy Bastard Ale. Later, a crime was committed against this gorgeous beer by adding an absurd amount of freshly harvested local
peppers, including mid-level-heat red and green jalapeños and ultra hot black nagas. Caribbean red hots, Moruga scorpions and fatalis, and thus Crime was born.
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I love spicy food more than the next guy. I would even try some of the hottest stuff, but damn, I wasn’t sure if I was up to the Arrogant Lukcy Bastard challenge. Especially one that is made with chile peppers. Considered the second hottest beer in the world, or so I have heard, don’t quote me on it. I am not sure how to approach this but I will do my best

Aromas:
Rich chiles like my dad makes, fresh red and green japalapeño and piquin peppers, flowery notes, hints of caramel, hints of bourbon but hidden, oak, caramel, spices, grapefruit, vanilla and earthy hop notes

Flavors:
Caramel, bourbon, Pizza crust, flowers, very rich and hot pepper spice but the peppers are still distinct. Earthy hops, grapefruit, vanilla, oak, flowers and spices.

Aftertaste:
It keeps burning a but the flowery, peppery and fruit chiles are still distinct as well as some earthy hops, caramel spice, and oak lingers a bit. A strong Sipping beer, no alcohol, but still burns. Very careful with this one PLEASE

Overall:
It is a good beer, but damn it is pretty hot. This would be perfect with a nice steak or chicken. The arrogant bastard taken to heights of new arrogance. Truly doth deserveth thy saying: “You’re not worthy!!” Many people will not like this unless you love beer and really hot chiles. This one is a little more tame and sweeter. I am sure the punishment will be my doom. By the way, this numbs the tongue and you will eventually lose the flavor. This is more of a novelty item. I would highly suggest not getting this beer unless you really love beer and chile, otherwise, you will not like it. This would probably be good for cooking too . But that is it.

Anime Corner:
Lilith and Morrigan Aensland were used in this pairing because I have used them in some Arrogant bastard beers. Lilith steals the spotlight here because I used her in the lukcy bastard pairing before. The addition of Morrigan in the picture as well as Lilith having her mouth open can represent the “hot and heat” of the beer. Them sitting there almost looks like the home of a crime syndicate hence the name of the beer. The one where Lilith is sitting down represents the beer aging and the last one where it seems there are flowers below Lilith are the chiles that were added to this beer. Awesome stuff.

2013 Bourbon County Brand Coffee Stout by Goose Island

December 16, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon county, Bourbon County Brand Coffee Stout, Chicago’s Intelligentsia Coffee, Donne Anonime, fancy coffee, Goose Island, Imperial Stout, Intelligentsia Coffee, Los Inmortales, Los Inmortales Intelligentsia Coffee, Tre Donne Crudeli, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2013 Bourbon County Brand Coffee Stout by Goose Island is a 13.4% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Los Inmortales Intelligentsia Coffee beans and aged in bourbon barrels.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (Ratebeer.com)
Everyday Goose Island smells the wonderful coffee roasting next to our brewery at Chicago’s Intelligentsia Coffee and Tea. This world class roaster puts the same passion and skill into their coffee as Goose Island does with its beer. This excellent stout is made with a different coffee from our friends next door each year. With the change in coffee comes a change in the flavor profile, making each release truly unique from the previous years.
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The 4th and possibly the better variety of the Bourbon county series I try. It is also Beer advocate’s number 4 best in the world. Like many beers, this one is coveted as well and released on Black Friday. If you want to get this one, you will have to trade or find it online. Either way, just like the other Bourbon Counties, they are a must try, even if once.

Aromas:
Very fancy coffee, mocha, espresso, roasted coffee beans, dark chocolate, vanilla, Irish cream, earthy notes, bourbon hints, dark fruits, chocolate coffee cake, mocha rocky road ice cream, oak, marshmallows and cinnamon.

Flavors:
Lots of very fancy coffee, Kahlua, bourbon notes, Irish cream, dark fruits, mocha, java, espresso, dark fruits, dark cherry, rich vanilla, dulce de leche, marshmallows, oak, chocolate mocha ice cream, rich dark and milk chocolate, double chocolate chip cookies and rocky road ice cream

Aftertaste:
Lingering to the finish is that very fancy coffee, mocha, vanilla, oak, bourbon, chocolate and dark fruit character. Not as much heat as the original and like the original, no alcohol in the taste. A definitely dangerous sipper but by that I mean, it is just like a fresh cup of coffee in the morning or frappuccino. Smooth!

Overall:
Exquisitely world class, just like its brethren. I think what really makes it this far is the coffee. This may be the 4th best beer in the world but, personally for me though, the Alesmith Bourbon Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak was the best overall coffee beer ever. This one, just like that one, is damn good and should not be missed if you are a fan of the series.

Anime Corner:
Donne Anonime from the Tre Donne Crudeli “Outlaw” Django was used in this pairing to represent the colors of the label, the old west for the Bourbon County aspect of it and the Los Inmortales coffee. The way I saw it was like the previous Bourbon County’s using cow girls and the old west. Los Inmortales could be seen by the cowboy hat, the life beyond death is immortal. Her name is “the Stranger”, she comes from places unknown and just like a thief in the night, she comes to swoop up that world class spot.

Bourbon County Brand Barleywine by Goose Island

December 14, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Barleywine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon county, Bourbon county brand barleywine, English Barleywine, Goose Island, pecan pie, Shimma Kunoichi, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.95/5

Bourbon County Brand Barleywine by Goose Island is a 12.1% ABV World Class English Barleywine aged in bourbon barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Aged in the third-use barrels that were once home to Kentucky bourbon and then our renowned Bourbon County Stout, this traditional English-style barleywine possesses the subtlety of flavor that only comes from a barrel that’s gone through many seasons of ritual care. The intricacies of the previous barrel denizens – oak, charcoal, hints of tobacco and vanilla, and that signature bourbon heat – are all present in this beer. Hearty and complex, Bourbon County Brand Barleywine is a titan and a timeline; a bold, flavorful journey through the craft of barrel aging.
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This is the 3rd variety of Bourbon County brands that I have tried aside from the Cherry Rye and the Stout. Highly coveted and sought after. Just like the others, sold on Black Friday with each being very unique in their own way. Best bet to get this one is through online sources or via trade. I bring this forth to see if I can put it to the test. Both Beer Advocate and Ratebeer give it 100 overall. Lets see if this is is true.

Aromas:
Chocolate chip and dark fruit cookies, almond joy, Rich flan and pecan pie, rich chocolate, rich hazelnut, almonds, pecans, macadamia, oak, vanilla, bourbon, breme brulee, rocky road, butterscotch, toffee, custard, chocolate cake and brownie batter.

Flavors:
Very rich caramel pecan pie, bourbon, vanilla, milk chocolate, chocolate with peanuts, almonds, macadamia nuts, hazel nut, dark fruits, rich dark cherry, toasted coconut, almond joy, flan, maple, rye bread, oak, rich campfire smores, tobacco, toffee, butter scotch, custard dessert, sweetened condensed milk pudding and other complex sweets.

Aftertaste:
Lots of dark fruits, pecan pie, chocolate covered macadamia nut,bourbon notes, oak and vanilla linger. No alcohol in the taste, yet the heat is warming for the body. A sipper, but a dangerous one as it feels smooth as hell.

Overall:
Exceptionally world class and extremely good. Only reason it did not get a 6 is because the Lost Abbey Sede Vacante had other things I loved a lot about Barleywines and the fact that it taste much like the Bourbon county stout but with more emphasis on pecan pie. Is it worth the hype? Only if you can find it and afford it. If not, I have shown other beers that have been very exceptional Barleywines. Yet this one definitely comes in second best in the world for me.

Anime Corner:
Shimma Kunoichi by Genzoman of Deviantart was used in this pairing to represent the color of the label but as well as the bad assness of the beer. As with the previous bourbon county, The old west was used but the one thing I could link Feudal Japan to the Old West was the fact that there was a movie where ninjas and cowboys did go head to head. The Warrior’s Way it was called. Anyways, the strongest aspect is mainly with the colors and possibly some of the delicious flavors found in this beer.

Blasphemy 2013 edition by Weyerbacher

December 14, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Quadruple, Blasphemy, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon whiskey, dark fruits, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, Quadruppel, Raven, Teen titans, The Raven, weyerbacher, whiskey barrels | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.9/5

Blasphemy 2013 edition by Weyerbacher 11.8% ABV Belgian Quadruple aged in Whiskey Barrels

Label:
Blasphemy is our award winning QUAD aged in bourbon barrels. But not overaged, so we’ve picked up gentle vanilla oaky notes which complement rather than supersede the complex qualities that already make QUAD such an incredible beer.
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Third Time’s a charm with this one. This is the 3rd time I review this beer and every time it is always one of the best Pecan Pie Quads ever. This year they are sporting a new label. Really awesome. This one I was able to get online as it is not sold from what I have seen, here in California.

Aromas:
Lots pecan pie, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut, whipped cream, buttered toffee, bananas, coconut, oak and a ton of dark fruits like raisins, plums, cherries, figs, some wine characters champagne and flan.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, hazelnut, honey, walnuts, raisin bread pudding, vanilla ice cream, waffle cone, Irish cream, bananas, toasted coconut, oak, butterscotch, bourbon whiskey, cherries, dark fruits like raisins, plums, blue and black berries, port wine, apples, peaches, pears and some graham crackers and marshmallows.

Aftertaste:
The sweet vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, raisin bread pudding, rich pecan pie , hazelnut and bourbon notes linger for a while. The beer is a sipper with the alcohol only coming through as needed but not to detract from the sweet flavors. You get the bourbon and the quad flavors fine.

Overall:
Very similar to previous years and each just more exquisite. The 2 year version seems to be more hefty and buttery than this one but this is still over the top. Close to being on of my favorite quads in the world. Worth a pick up if you can find it. Belgian and Barrel Aged beer loves may love this one

Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans I used for the new pairing to represent the new label colors. I used Raven to signify the raven that is on the label. I also used Dark Angel by Nezu-nyan of Deviant art in the original pairing of beer because everything from the background, to the raven, the cemetery and the blue night sky was part of the original label. Couldn’t find a better pairing

Bourbon County Brand Stout 2013 by Goose Island

December 14, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon county, Bourbon County Brand Stout, Franco il Nero, Goose Island, Imperial Stout, Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, Tre Donne Crudeli | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Bourbon County Brand Stout 2013 by Goose Island is a 14.9%ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in bourbon barrels.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (ratebeer.com)
“I really wanted to do something special for our 1000th batch at the original brewpub. Goose Island could have thrown a party. But we did something better. We brewed a beer. A really big batch of stout-so big the malt was coming out of the top of the mash tun. After fermentation we brought in some bourbon barrels to age the stout. One hundred and fifty days later, Bourbon County Stout was born-A liquid as dark and dense as a black hole with a thick foam the color of bourbon barrels. The nose is a mix of charred oak, vanilla,caramel and smoke. One sip has more flavor than your average case of beer. It overpowers anything in the room. People have even said that it’s a great cigar beer, but I haven’t yet tried a cigar that would stand up to it.” Brewmaster Greg Hall;
IBU’s 60-High Color – Midnight

Editor’s Note: Baudoinia Fulton & Wood Series offering (And the Low Storage entry from FoBAB 2012) is simply Bourbon County Stout aged in the same barrels. It has been alted as it offers no different recipe or barrel type simply the presence of a distillers fungus on the barrels that adds no distinct characteristic to the beer from the fungus itself except for possible oxygen exposure changes. While Brewers Intent indicates that they consider it a new beer, no true distinction aside from this oxidation amount and possible aging time differences seperates the beers. It’s essentially a single barrel Bourbon County version something we have always treated as regular Bourbon County Stout in the past.

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One of the most sought out little bottles out there. I have tried the 2008 version of this beer and it was probably just as fantastic. Of course, back then I gave it 5/5 without including the extra credit system I implemented with my reviews. Essentially, this beer comes out every Black Friday. The Bruery responds similarly releasing Black Tuesday on October which is another beer of the much but same World Class caliber.

Aromas:
Very rich milk and dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, banana notes, flan, bourbon, toasted coconut, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, dark fruits like raisins, figs, licorice, hazelnut coffee, Irish cream, earthiness, oak and other good aromas

Flavors:
Lots of rich milk and dark chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, bananas, coffee, mocha, dark cherry, dark fruits, raisins, plums, oak, lots of coconut taste, brownie batter, chocolate cake, rocky road ice cream, Kahlua notes, licorice, pecan pie, marshmallow smores, crème brulee, rum hints and other dessert flavors.

Aftertaste:
The very nice bourbon, vanilla, rich chocolate, caramel, flan, coconut and it stays with you for a while. Sipping beer for sure and still trying to find the alcohol in taste or atleast how it would detract from the flavors. Very dangerous as you will want to drink it all in one go. Even though you can but definitely meant to be enjoyed.

Overall:
Exceptionally exquisite. If you have had Black Tuesday, this beer is synonymous in lots of aspects and the alcohol cannot be found anywhere in the taste. You get hit later with it. What makes this beer so good is that it stays with you for along time. The flavors don’t go away so quickly. I think this is one of the reasons why people like it so much. Very rich and flavorful.

Anime Corner:
Franco il Nero from Tre Donne Crudelli is used in this pairing since I had used her in the 2008 Bourbon County pairing to show this one will get you nice a buzzed but also warm you up inside. Also, the whole them of Cowboys and Cowgirls I used in this pairing with the beer because whenever I think of Bourbon and County, I think of the Old west. This beer should have won the west. Since it was the original Bourbon county pairing, it stuck.

Firestone XVII Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker

November 28, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged American Strong Ale, anniversary ale, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Brandy Barrel Aged, Brandy Barrels, Bushido, Double DBA, Firestone Walker, Firestone XVII, Muv-Luv Alternative, Parabola, Samurai, Strategy guide, total eclipse, Velvet Merkin, Yui Takamura | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.79/5* (Just like last years version, more difficult to explain. Strategy guide included)

Firestone XVII Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker is a 13.3% ABV Strong Multi-liquor Barrel Aged Style Hybrid Blend Ale

Description:
“We blended together 220 oak barrels and seven different beers creating something truly complex and exceptional.” – Brewmaster Matt Brynildson
Bravo / Aged in Bourbon and Brandy Barrels / 30% of Final Blend
-Imperial Brown Ale

Sticky Monkey / Aged in Bourbon and Whiskey Barrels / 25% of Final Blend
-English Barley Wine Brewed with Mexican Turbinado (brown) Sugar

Velvet Merkin / Aged in Bourbon Barrels / 15% of Final Blend
-Traditional Oatmeal Stout

Parabola / Aged in Bourbon Barrels / 15% of Final Blend
-Russian Imperial Oatmeal Stout

Double DBA / Aged in retired Firestone Union Barrels / 8% of Final Blend
-Double strength English Pale Ale

Helldorado / Aged in Bourbon and Brandy Barrels / 4% of Final Blend
-Blonde Barley Wine Brewed with Buckwheat Honey

Wookey Jack / 100% Stainless Steel / 3% of Final Blend
-Black Rye India Pale Ale

XVII ABV: 13.3%
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This year’s batch is very special using. The strategy guide is even longer since they had winemakers assist with the project to get the right types of blends in constructing this beer. Holy shit is all I can say about the information of how much work and effort it took to make this.

Aromas:
Chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, brandy, port wine notes, dark cherry, raspberry, coconut, oak, caramel, toffee, oatmeal raisin chocolate chip cookies, banana notes, marshmallow, rocky road ice cream, Mexican piloncillo, pecans, hazelnut, raisin bread chocolate pudding, flan, bourbon, rich brandy, candied apples, smoked wood, hint of tropics but very small and other complex fragrances. Crazy part is that it kept changing as the beer got warmer.

Flavors:
Big Vanilla, toasted coconut, almond joy, toffee, caramel, dark chocolate, espresso, Barley wine, rye bread, flan, hazelnut, pecan pie whiskey, brandy, bourbon, chocolate, rich chocolate chip cookies on rocky road ice cream with cherries, strawberries, hazelnut, ferro rocher chocolate, pecan pie, special oak wood, oatmeal, maple, peach notes, pear, anise, mint, rich rye bread, butterscotch, brown sugar, marshmallows, tropical notes as it got warmer, and lots of other complex flavors. Damn, I ran out of lives, gonna have to start at the last save point.

Aftertaste:
Finishing off with like nice chocolate, port wine, maple syrupy notes, dark fruit oatmeal chocolate chips, marshmallows and oaky vanilla. Boozy notes here an there but everything plays well with the flavors

Overall:
Every year much more complex, much more exceptional. Does it beat out it’s predecessor XVI? Well, yes and no. By that I mean, let is age for a while. You see, the early XVI did not but damn, XVI 1 year later was doing complex virtuoso rock solos around my palette. Do not let that fool you though finding the complexities is difficult even if you have Tequila added like when XVI had PNC, “holy shit nice” is what I was tasting. Parabola by itself wins over all of them only because of the extra chocolate push into into the 6/5 range for extra credit for me. XVII was able to get super close to XVI 1 year later and actually beat the younger age one especially because of the Velvet Merkin complexities to have a hug back up. Magic maybe the bloodstream of the universe like Merkin is the bloodstream of this powerhouse beer. Longer strategy guide and all, this beer still kicking your ass .

Anime Corner:
Yui Takamura from the series Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipe is used in this pairing to show the hard work and dedication that was used to make this beer. Also, the colors of her armor are close to the colors of the beer label and box. Along with her companions, they represent the selections of individual beers that were selected in order to bring this beer blend into fruition. The colors may also be used to represent the dark fruit flavors, brandy, bourbon, chocolate and others. The Strength of the alcohol and the hard work are also represented by the Bushido code she follows as a samurai.

Bourbon Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout by Alesmith

November 27, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Alesmith, Blake Belladona, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout, Civet, Coffee Beans, fancy coffee, Faunus, Imperial Stout, Kopi Luwak, Kopi Luwak Coffee, Rwby, Speedway Stout, Symphony City Kitty, World class, World Class Imperial Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5*

Bourbon Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout by Alesmith is a 12%ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Kopi Luwak Coffee beans and aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
Kopi Luwak is one of the world’s most expensive and rare coffee varieties. The beans are specifically selected for their ripeness and quality by the Civet, a small jungle marsupial that feeds off the fruit of the coffee cherry. They are then gathered by humans from the jungle floors of Indonesia, throughly cleaned, and sun-dried. A precise roasting by San Diego’s Ryan Bros. Coffee leads to extremely aromatic and exceptionally smooth final product that complements this barrel-aged imperial stout amazingly well. Good to the last dropping!
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So there you have it, to put it bluntly, it is basically an already world class stout made with coffee beans that have been pooped out by the Civet cat and then barrel aged the whole thing. Considering this was hard to get, the price of a cup of just the coffee by itself would put the price of this beer to shame. Yet, the flavors are most likely very unique to even the coffee by itself that the palette understanding of the complexity would cause a tongue would send signals to the brain causing a mind blow division by zero. Even if the concept of Civet poop coffee sounds disgusting, one must have an open mind. This is really clean beer too. Anyway, enough of that, on with the review

Aromas:
Straight out of the bottle, uniquely rich pecan pie, bakers chocolate, really fancy coffee, hazelnut, Irish cream, dark fruit, a type of boozyness that smells like cantaloupe, dark and milk chocolate, flan, mocha, java, espresso, Kahlua, dark cherries, floral notes, oak, vanilla, bourbon, coconut, bananas, rocky road ice cream notes

Flavors:
Chocolate covered cherries, really fancy coffee, Kahlua, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, rich java, mocha, earthly bitter notes, flan notes, bananas, vanilla, caramel, marshmallows, bourbon, oak, floral notes, Irish cream notes, dark fruits, bakers chocolate, dark chocolate syrup, roasted coffee beans, black berries, herbal spicy notes, rum notes, oatmeal, chocolate chip cookies and more flavors I cant make out.

Aftertaste:
Finishing off with layer of roasted fancy coffee, minor earthy possibly off flavor (LOL could be the poop ;)), caramel, chocolate, dark fruit, berries, bourbon, herbal cherry and spices as well as some bourbon. A big sipper with the booziness not detracting from the rich complex but more like it plays well

Overall:
*Bar none, the best coffee imperial stout ever!! I have tried the Mikkeller Beer Geek Weasel Cognac and this one beats it big time. Who knew Civet poop bean coffee could be so good. One of the reasons why this coffee is so great is because the process or digesting these beans causes the impurities and bitterness of coffee to be removed leaving beans that are more appealing, except for the poop part ofcourse.. That gets cleaned off thoroughly (I hope O_O). Definitely world class adding another depth of character that is hard to describe even with the barrel aging part itself for sure. Lots of extra credits here.

Anime Corner:
Blake Belladonna from RWBY is one of the main characters from the show with a reserved and sometimes antisocial personality. She carries a lot of burden on her shoulders rom her past. She is a Faunus, which are humanoid people with some animal traits. In the show, people may be prejudice against the Fauni as they consider them thieves. While Blake is a good person, she believes the people may be misunderstood seeing how the actions of some of the bad Fauni may give the overall race a bad rap. This part of her history can reflect the cruelty from some of the people who may abuse the Civets they harvest the coffee beans from. It is wrong to abuse some of the animals, but I am hopeful that the beer this was made from did not abuse any of those animals. While fighting, Blake is perceived almost like a ninja, a fast paced ninja. In relation to this beer, she is black like a stout, fast enough to meet the name “speedway stout”. She looks like a black cat which some Civets, even though marsupials, kind look like cats. The red background in the pictures is used to explain some of those dark berry flavors. The bourbon is in her eyes which have seen many things but remain strong and determined.

In the last 2 pictures, Symphony City Kitty by petite-emi.deviantart.com I used to represent the Civet. In weird sort of way I sort of artistic way, I saw this picture as the Civet releasing the berries. The blue background of the Civet may represent the astonishment of the delicious flavors from the coffee beans, either that or the Bullshit of humanity represented by the cities that a small portion of places actually don’t obey animal rights. I really hope the coffee beans picked for this beer were harvested in respect to these creatures. Which leads to the last piece of work where Symphony flicks the cigarette to represent disgust at animal abuse, but also looking very classy as in saying “here is your fancy coffee made from my poop, while I stand here looking classy and awesome, you sick bastards!!”

Anyways, if you can see any more artfulness in these pieces let me know. While I am against animal abuse, I really hope they harvested these beans with respecting the animals. Otherwise, I’d definitely feel like a hypocritical bastard for drinking this. It is an extremely good beer though. I do Thank you Civets of the world.

Bourbon Barrel Aged Autumn Maple by the Bruery

November 26, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Autumn Maple, Belgian Brown Ale, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Autumn Maple, bourbon barrels, Maple Syrup, Pumpkin, Queen's Blade, Risty, Spices, The Bruery, Trick or Treat, yammy, yams | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Autumn Maple by the Bruery is a 13% ABV Belgian Brown Ale Brewed with Yams, Spices and Maple Syrup then aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
TRICK OR TREAT

We don’t need pumpkins in out beer! Bog, bold, spicy and oh so yammy.

This decadent, barrel aged version of our spiced brown ale is suitable for aging up to five years when cellared properly.
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Available from the Bruery store directly. I have reviewed the original Autumn maple last year and I loved it!. Now in Bourbon? Well, I could easily give this one more credit as it was a perfect beer.

Previous Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/autumn-maple-by-the-bruery/

Aromas:
Maple Syrup, bananas, Belgian yeast, cloves spice, toast bread, rye, dark fruits, coconut, bourbon, yams, sweet potato pie, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, vanilla, graham crackers, marshmallows and oak

Flavors:
Rich Bananas, clove spice, Belgian yeast, Yams, sweet, buttery caramel popcorn, candy corn, toffee, maple syrup, pancakes, bourbon, toasted light coconut, marshmallows, graham crackers, vanilla, butterscotch, Nutella on toasted rye bread notes, dark fruits, raisins, fig notes, Mexican whole cane sugar cone, milk and cooked sugary pumpkin

Aftertaste:
Finishing with maple syrup, yam, milk, banana, bourbon and dark fruit notes. A sipper with the bourbon not detracting too much from the flavor and not being harsh. Heavy, yet drinkable and delicious

Overall:
Exceptionally awesome! While some bourbon barrel aged beers may take away a little bit from the flavor or may be too harsh, this one play very well with all the delicious flavors. If you loved the original Autumn Maple, this one will most likely blow you away. Perhaps, the second best pumpkin like offering this year with no doubt. Awesome!

Anime Corner:
Risty from the Queen’s Blade series is a busty and buff looking strong woman with a heart of Gold. She is Bandit like Robin Hood, stealing money from the Rich and using it to provide food and shelter for poor and starving war orphans. Like the last Autumn maple, I used Risty as her colors best represent the Fall and the beer label. If you notice the old review, she is very joyous and in this version, she looks like a war bad ass. I did this represent her true strength that sweetness that is released from those Bourbon Barrels. Even if she seems vicious, as in the strength of this beer but, just like the original, she is still kindhearted with a heart of gold. You can also associate yams and maple to her colors as well. Even dark fruit colors peek from the tips of her hair.

Southern Charred by Stone Brewing

November 22, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, Charred Oak Barrels, Double Bastard, Jedah, Kentucky Bourbon, kentucky whiskey, Lilith Aensland, Southern Charred, stone brewing co, Stone Double Bastard | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5*

Southern Charred by Stone Brewing is a 12.6% ABV American Strong Ale which consists of 2012 Double Bastard Ale Aged in Charred Oak Barrels, Kentucky Bourbon Barrels and Kentucky Bourbon Barrels that used to contain “Stone Suitable for Cave Aging”

Label:
Double Bastard brewed August 2nd & November 2nd, 2012
Arrogant Bastard Ale’s (really) big brother, this dark amber ale is brewed with a huge malt bill and a belligerent amount of hops. It’s a heavy, bitter beast of a beer and absolutely not for the timid.

In the Mash: CLASSIFIED
In the Boil: CLASSIFIED
In the Whirlpool: CLASSIFIED

Unfiltered and aged 10 months in 51% Kentucky Bourbon Barrels, 8% American Oak Barrels (charred)
13 Months in 41% Kentucky Bourbon Barrels second-use
IBUs:95
Bottled: October 2013

Cellar Notes:
The charred American oak barrels lend intense smoke and vanilla flavors, while the Kentucky bourbon barrels add nuances of butterscotch and caramel. These meld with rich dark chocolate notes produced by Kentucky bourbon barrels that once held “Stone Suitable for Cave Aging” – (An Imperial Smoked Porter Tribute to Danny Williams) to produce)a very complex, well-structured beer with intense flavor.
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I have tried the Double Bastard aged in Bourbon barrels in the past. This release is aged in 3 different barrels implying a very southern whiskey like experience to the already awesome Double Bastard. Limited time so if you can find this one, they recommended a cellar. At least a cellar on Crime and Punishment. Those will be beastly

Aromas:
Very rich vanilla, coconut, flan, caramel, bourbon, oak, smokey and roasty notes, chocolate notes, crème brulee, toffee, whiskey character, maple, honey, chocolate orange notes, campfire wood, chocolate smores, marshmallows, graham crackers, brown sugar and deep berry notes. Boozy nose feel

Flavors:
Definitely a variety of whiskey, scotch and bourbon notes but pleasant. Rich Toffee, vanilla, smokey wood, campfire, marshmallows, chocolate notes, graham crackers, caramel, coconut notes, orange notes, coriander, earthy hops (still present), burnt oak, maple, honey, flan, brown sugar, berry notes, cherry notes and raisins.

Aftertaste:
The aftertaste is definitely of the presence of Double Bastard. Rich vanilla Toffee with citrus bitterness, coconut, vanilla, whiskey, campfire oak and earthy hops. A sipper with the booziness only as present as it needs to be to get the different variables of bourbon, scotch and whiskey out but nothing to burn harshly.

Overall:
Exceptionally great and complex. This beer will definitely develop stronger oak and vanilla character with possibly more fruit and toffee characters as the years pass by. No telling what will happen. Except the 2009 version tasted like a wine and cheese party which was brilliant.. Price wise, it is a lot. I have to thank a person who hooked me up with this for doing a review. Although, 500ml bottle isn’t quite a lot of beer. Seeing the level of complexity it took to make this I would understand. Although, I would say it is better if you find it on tap if possible. It is only a few times I review these due to the price ($18-$23 per bottle) but I would recommend them if you like as sometimes, they are worth that much in experience.

*Extra credit for the exceptional complexity with the different use of oak barrels bringing out delicious dessert flavors.

Anime Corner:
Lilith Aensland and Jedah Dohma from Darkstalkers which I had chosen for this piece had to do mainly with why I chose them for the first Double Bastard I did a long time ago. The Double bastard portion had to do with my idea of 2 girls combining in higher flavor profiles. I will be redoing the original Double Bastard soon to recap on the epic beer to show what I mean. The Bat wings of Lilith and the dark Jedah (Midnight Bliss form) represent the gargoyle and the darkness of arrogance. So you have a sweet and bitter flavor profile from the Double Bastard. The fact that in this picture, Lilith is moving away from the bottle and into the arms of Jedah, symbolizes the repel effect of burning or charred effect the oak bourbon barrels have on the Double bastard beer. In the previous Double Bastard picture I used, it is Lilith who is embracing Jedah instead. So it seemed to fit in my mind somehow.

Black Tuesday (2013 Release) by the Bruery

November 14, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Black Tuesday 2013, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, world class beers, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5* This years is the same as previous years

Black Tuesday (2013 Release) by the Bruery is an 18.9% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
NEW DEAL

I cannot help but raise a dissenting voice to statements that we are living in a fool’s paradise, and that prosperity in this country must necessarily diminish and recede in the near future.” – E.H.H. Simmons, President, NYSE, January 1928

Black Tuesday Will age gracefully for many decades of economic fluctuations. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55 ° F (13 °C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass
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Let’s not kid ourselves here, 18.9% ABV? Nope, I am calling it 19% ABV. One of the strongest but favorite beers that I have ever stumbled upon and one of the more coveted ones. This year, the Bruery has been a little more graceful in releasing more beers to the public than in the past. Even if their web page kept crashing just the like the Stock Exchange Crash of the 1920s. I was lucky to even get the bottle from them this year. Lucky for many though, through out October and parts of November, they had their Barrel Aged months so definitely offered them on tap to the public. Since I have done reviews for this beer several times, I

Aromas:
Rich bananas, vanilla, bourbon, caramel, roasted coconut, oak, dark fruits like cherries raisins, sweet, dark and milk chocolate, strong hazelnut (but not as awesome as Grey Monday), pecan pie, very nice smokey sugar, like a roasted marshmallow on a graham cracker, chocolate then laced with dulce de leche caramel, some slight agave syrup, almost candi sugar, choco flan, creme brulee and a lot of sweet goodness that is hard to make out but its very appealing.

Flavors:
Lots of chocolate covered bananas, dulce de leche caramel, flan, bourbon sweet, dark, milk chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, oak, cherries, mocha, coffee, plums, raisins, burnt sugar, crème brulee, anise, chocolate cake, chocolate brownie batter, rum, chocolate smores, marshmallow, graham crackers, waffle cone, roasted coconuts, pecan pie, hazelnut cream, port wine, agave nectar, apple butter and many more complexities.

Aftertaste:
The rich banana, bourbon, chocolate, rich dark fruits, hazelnut, cherries, marshmallow, coconut, pecan pie, all of it! Stays on the palette like a rich dessert. Boozy, but damn smooth and damn dangerous. Sipping drinkability but because it is smooth, you made be tempted to drink it easily. Do not try to finish the bottle in a single sitting. Bad things happen

Overall:
*There is nothing more I can say which I have not professed about this beer in past reviews other than get it if you must!! All I can do now is see about finding another bottle and cellaring it for maybe 20 years and see what happens. I hope to live long enough to enjoy but more than likely I will finish it. Maybe

Anime Corner: tl;dr
KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Three most favorite characters in anime. She was chosen for this particular beer in 2012 to go along with some of my most favorite beers of all time. In terms of who she is is representative of how bad ass this beer is. To me, Black Tuesday is representative of a crash which brings about chaos. Polar to chaos is order or cosmos. While there is is a mess among chaos, there is always a glimmer of hope that will restore the balance to the universe, and that is order or KOS-MOS. In other reviews I have reviewed her character when it comes to the divine and holy (The Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Mayan Judgment, Angel Share, Sede Vacante and even Sam Adams Tetravis). In the game, SPOILER ALERT She is Mary Magdalene’s vessel for which Kaos is Jesus Christ. SPOILER ENDS. Yeah, the spoiler may not make sense but there are many websites ready to explain. Anyways, Black Tuesday label, although hard to see holds some shiny blue but also some shiny brown. The blue part represents KOS-MOS for me and the brown is the sweet chocolate. Once you find out how sweet and understanding this character is, it makes a world of a difference which is why Black Tuesday makes a world of a difference to me. Although the cold harsh reality of her initial computational robotical android form is may seem a bit cold when the series first started. Not to mention the fact that she is a definitely over powered character, which may be the alcohol and the fact that this beer should not be consumed in one sitting. She should be enjoyed slowly. The artwork also represents Black Tuesday as the dark matter of space, the upper frontiers of awesomeness and good beer. Tuesday is just another cycle of the stars.

Firestone XVI Sixteenth Anniversary Ale (1 year later) by Firestone Walker

November 7, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Agave Nectar, American Strong Ale, anniversary ale, Battle Vixens, Belgian Chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, chunky munky, Firestone Walker, Firestone XVI, Hakufu Sonsaku, ikki Tousen, Shiba'i Chuutatsu, Sixteenth Anniversary Ale, Tequila Barrel Aged | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.8/5 * This version has been aged for 1 year since it’s release

Firestone XVI Sixteenth Anniversary Ale by Firestone Walker is a 13% ABV American Strong Ale combining several blends of beers all into this fine master piece. I had saved an extra bottle from last year to present during the time that the 17th anniversary was to be released. It was stowed away for the entire year. I will not go into much detail about the label or the strategy guide as I literally wrote a book on reviewing this beer last year. This year the 17th anniversary is around the corner and will be heading to many stores all over. Therefore, I will try and pick up a bottle to bring forth a review. Hopefully better or as good as last year’s review which you can check out on the link below.

Link the last year’s Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/21/firestone-xvi-sixteenth-anniversary-ale-by-firestone-walker/

Today, I want to go over the evolution and differences that I will try and pick up from last year to see what may have changed or reviewed from last years. First thing I can already tell is that it feels boozier from last year. Could have possibly grown to a 14 or 15% ABV. The difficulty in this review is trying to get the development from last years and how the strategy guide is useless here as I cannot tell which of the individual blends has developed more as the complexity has gone beyond my understanding. Either way, cheers and wish me luck.

Developed Aromas are of more dark fruits, more chocolate covered raisins, dulce de leche caramel, rich vanilla, coffee, smokey undertone, dark cherries, agave nectar, rocky road ice cream, ferro rocher chocolate pecan pie, bigger amounts of oak, bourbon, tequila, coconut, a wine grape character, chunky munky banana and cherry ice cream and kahlua coffee

Flavors have developed into more of rich rock road icecream with pecans, coconut, marshmallows, whiskey, agave tequila, wine hints, agave nectar, dark cherry yogurt undertone, raisins, dark and lighter fruits like peach and mango, caramel, kahlua chocolate, almond joy chocolate, banana chunky munky, smokey oak, vanilla, mocha frappuccino notes, more danish cookies, more leche nestle, maple, pecan pie and other complex flavors.

Aftertaste is of dark fruit, chocolate, roasted coffee beans and distinct liquor booziness. Nothing that is overwhelming or burning. In fact, it almost feels like the beer has mellowed out and gotten a bit smoother too. A definite sipper still though, this is a heavy ABV beer.

Overall:
More spectacular than before. You will get more enhanced flavors like stronger dark fruit and chocolate flavors along with a bigger booziness that plays well with others. You can tell there is a difference in the liquors as well, like the tequila and bourbon. I would definitely recommend it if you missed out on last years as this one was made with PNC. This year’s is made with Velvet Merkin, so I will definitely try my best to bring that beer forward here. Definitely a pick up if you can get it.

Anime Corner:
This is Shiba’i Chuutatsu from the Battle Vixens Series is the main Spoiler Alert Villain, goes by Kentei Spoiler Ends. This character, while deceiving others to be handicap, has no remorse towards others, much less her own comrades in the series. The dragon tatoos on her arms glow as she powers up her chi. She is actually very powerful when she unleashes her dragon stage. Oh yeah, she can play guitar too, go figure.

In the last beer review, I posted most of the cast of Battle Vixens “Ikki Tousen” but I also posted one of Sonsaku Hakufu, the protagonist of the series who also has the spirit of the Dragon. I have only seen he first half of the series but I understand it is her destiny to stop the villain. In both pictures here I wanted to show 2 abstracts. In the first picture I wanted to show how some of the colors of the label fit Hakufu in the picture. The cast of the series is supposed to represent the different beer blends that go into making this beer. In this beer review, we can see how they have “developed” or most of them. The colors of Shiba’i’s outfit were perfect for the label but in contrast with the development of the beer’s dark fruit, chocolate and dark cherry flavors, I wanted to show how the powerful this character was. Also, her hair is pink so that’s another fruit like cherry. You be the judge

White Chocolate (2013 Release) by The Bruery

October 31, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak, White Oak Sap | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5* This years is same score as the last

White Chocolate (2013 Release) by The Bruery is a 14.75% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
OAKALATE
This sumptuous version of our barrel-aged wheat wine style ale has an addition of fresh vanilla beans and TCHO cacao nibs.
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Last year, I reviewed white chocolate, essentially the Polar opposite of the Chocolate Rain which can be aged up to 5 years. This year, I wanted to give it another shot as it was released more frequently but to California. If you are able to get your hands on this one, definitely give it a shot. One of my top favorites

Aromas are of vanilla, milk chocolate, white chocolate, oak, dulce de leche caramel, oak, coconut. Citrus, banana, orange, bourbon, tropical fruit, hazelnut, pecans, cinnamon, marzipan, almond, butterscotch, wine grapes, pears, raisins and apricots

The flavors are of white chocolate, vanilla, chocolate, orange, coriander, bourbon , coconut, pears, peaches, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecans, hazelnut, brown sugar, oak, marzipan, almonds, raisins, tart apples, pineapple, tropical fruit, dulce de leche caramel and butterscotch

The aftertaste leaves off with that nice oak and white chocolate goodness with some nice tart and citrus flavors. Definitely a sipper who’s alcohol becomes more and more hidden as it warms up

Overall, still one of my most favorite top Bruery beers. This year’s though, definitely shines more on the white oak and citrus side, at first. Temari plays hard to get second round (2013), so let it warm up and as it goes, you bet damn right you get the white chocolate. Highly recommended if you love Barrel aged beers no doubt.

Anime Corner: Temari Sabakuno from the Naruto series is one bad ass female ninja. One of my favorite all time Anime characters. She is from the Sand Clan of the ninja world, sister to their leader Gaara, Naruto’s close friend. Temari can seem rude and tomboyish on the outside and very cold hearted at times. Sometimes without a care in the world except when it comes to her family and friends. She takes charge and doesn’t hesitate to risk it all. This beer is a representative of her, not just in the colors of the label, the even if she may be harsh in the beginning (tart flavors) she has been known to open up and show her true side of compassion for others (White Chocolate, Vanilla, Cacao) especially her friend Shikamaru, the smart ninja from the Leaf Village (Naruto’s Clan). The part of the tropical and sunny citrus flavors are in terms of her hair (Pineapple, Tropical, wheat wine) and the dessert (Orange, Sunny, citrus, oak). So if you experience her sharp and tart at first, let her warm up to you, you will find the true White Chocolate you’ve been waiting for.

the GreatER Pumpkin Heavy Seas Uncharted Waters series 2013 by Clipper City Brewing

October 24, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, almond joy, Bourbon Barrel Aged, butter scotch, Chocolate, Clipper City, Clipper City Brewing, coconut, Heavy Seas, pumpkin ale, pumpkin flesh, pumpkin pie, pumpkin seeds, the GreatER Pumpkin, uncharted series, Uncharted Waters, Uncharted Waters series | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.2/5

the GreatER Pumpkin Heavy Seas Uncharted Waters series 2013 by Clipper City Brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Pumpkin ale brewed with spices and aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
As fall approaches and thoughts turn to Halloween, we roll out the Great’ER Pumpkin. A coppery ale with forward notes of vanilla oak and flavors of Autumnal spice, the ale is brewed with actual pumpkin and imported English malts. Pairs well with turkey legs, sweet potatoes, and an evening looking at the stars…

Uncharted Waters explores the unique changes that happen to beer when exposed to wood. Each beer showcases a robust style, carefully matched with a wood treatment to showcase a range of complex flavors. Vintage dating encourages further exploration on the aging process. As much about the voyage as the destination we hope you enjoy these beers in the spirit in which they were brewed.
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Available this season in certain places. Online, if you live in California. This is the 3rd beer I try in the Uncharted Waters series and the 3rd Clipper Brewing beer overall. All have been pleasantly awesome. This is their Bourbon pumpkin beer. I have tried many pumpkin beers with ranges of many different flavors. When they start to get into the Barrel Aged category, they become very awesome and generally, something very awesome and different. Some key BBA pumpkin beers have been able to surpass my expectations while the regular ones are still the best at what they do individually.

Aromas of this beer are loaded with oak, vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie, pumpkin flesh, coconut, chocolate, bourbon, coriander spice, ginger bread, fruit cake, flan, brown sugar and cloves

The flavors are of pumpkin flesh, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie, vanilla, oak, caramel, nutmeg cinnamon, bourbon, coconut, light matured banana, clove spice, milk, chocolate notes, rice pudding, piloncillo (Mexican hard sugar cone), raisin ginger bread, flan, brown sugar, butterscotch, graham crackers, pumpkin flavored almond joy and pumpkin rocky road ice cream.

After taste leaves very nice pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, banana, clove spice, chocolate hints and bourbon notes. Good luck finding the alcohol in this one. The beer is not full bodied yet it is a sipper.

Overall, an awesome Barrel aged pumpkin serving. Almost on par with Uinta Oak Jacked, although this one has less mature banana notes white this one takes the pumpkin and bourbon and plays with them extremely well. Heavy Seas series makes some damn good beers. Need to get me some more. Although online. If you can get this beer, have at it. If not, take Oak Jacked. These beers are similar, except while one focuses on banana notes, this one got the coconut and chocolate going for it. The extra credit well deserved here. Something about their brewing process gives some delicious chocolate. So far the 3 beers I have had from this series has shown me this. Why? Could be my senses playing tricks. Regardless, very awesome beer.

Life is Like… collaboration by Cigar City and Mikkeller

October 18, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, best beers in the world, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Stout, bourbon barrels, cacao nibs, cherries, Cherry Chocolate Milk Stout, Cherry Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout, Chocolate Milk Stout, Chocolate Rain, cigar city, Cigar City Brewing, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, dark cherry yogurt, dulce de leche caramel, flan, Hyakka Ryōran Samurai Girls, Imperial Milk Stout, Kuchiki Rukia, Life is Like a Box of Chocolates, Life is Like..., Luka Megurine, meaning of life, Mikkeller, milk Chocolate, Milk Stout, Rukia Devil, Rukia Succubus, Samurai, Samurai Girls, The meaning of Life, vocaloid, yagyu jubei, Yagyū Jūbei Mitsuyoshi, You never know what your going to get | 2 Comments

Rating: 6+/5 *My new second most favorite chocolate flavored beer ever. Why be limited 😦 ????

Life is Like… collaboration by Cigar City and Mikkeller is a 15% ABV Imperial Milk / Sweet Stout brewed with cherries & cacao nibs & aged in bourbon barrels

Label:
An imperial sweet stout brewed with cherries and cacao nibs, which is then aged in bourbon barrels. This beer is brewed in collaboration with Mikkeller our generous friend from Copenhagen, Denmark. What you have here is a modest attempt to emulate the experience of biting into a chocolate-covered cherry candy. We hope you enjoy it but you never know what you’re gonna get.
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Released exclusively at the Cigar City Brewing tap room, this one had become a quickly coveted beer. I was only able to grab a bottle by pure luck as now a days you either have to get them through trading or online sites that cater to rare beers. If you somehow stumble upon this treasure, the choice to drink now or save for later will be completely up to you. I have taken the brevity to do a review now but check several years later and see if the brew has completely changed into something, possibly extraordinary.

Aromas of this is exactly what I had expected and more!! Cordial Cherries, Chocolate covered cherry notes, vanilla dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, cherry rye bread, flan, bourbon, hazelnut, dark cherry notes, roasted coffee, Kahlua, mocha, banana, cloves and cake

The flavors are basically, Chocolate Rain brewed with cherries. The flavors are very awesome, on point and rich. Lots of rich cherries in the taste, Cordial Chocolate-covered cherries, raspberries, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Kahlua, bourbon, mocha, banana notes, hazel nut, vanilla, cherry flan, dulce de leche caramel, cherry rye bread, dark fruits like raisins, figs, blueberry and raspberry jam notes, cherry skin and rich cherry cake

The aftertaste leaves like a combination of chocolate, cherry and vanilla syrup with some very nice bourbon notes. The alcohol is mildly present and really almost hidden. A very syrupy sipper. Almost like drinking liquid gourmet Cordial Chocolate cherries. As the beer warms up, more cherries start to come out. Give it some time and enjoy

Overall, just plug it into my veins!! Freaking awesomely delicious Chocolate Rain, basically with real cherries. Cigar City is The Bruery of the east coast for me. Now you add the awesome gypsy Mikkeller into the mash and you have a beer that is so rich and sweet, it really does make me wonder if the meaning of Life is like… enjoying it and making the best of it. A symbolic representation of life is most likely represented in this bottle or anything you love. Either that or this is Diabetes in a bottle (Willford Brimly voice). And in several years, if you are alive to enjoy it, take it and share it with the lucky ones. You most important ones because they are what make life worth living. This is true to what they say it is. To me, this is actually better than the than the Cherry Rye Bourbon County in the chocolate and cherry department.

Smokestack Series Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ) by Boulevard Brewing

October 17, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, BBQ, Belgian Quadruple, boulevard brewing, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Quad, bourbon barrels, cherries, Dark Cherries, dulce de caramel, Quad, Quadrupel, quadruple, Smokestack Series, The Sixth Glass, wine and cheese party, wine grapes | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.35/5

Smokestack Series Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ) by Boulevard Brewing is an 11.8% ABV Belgian Quadrupel divided into 16% ale and 84% aged in bourbon barrels with cherries

Label:
Based loosely on the Smokestack Series’ The Sixth Glass, this abbey-style quadrupel is separated into a number of oak bourbon barrels where it ages for varying lengths of time, some for up to three years. Cherries are added to make up for the “angel’s share” of beer lost during barrel aging. Selected barrels are then blended for optimum flavor. The resulting beer retains only very subtle cherry characteristics, with toffee and vanilla notes coming to the fore.
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Limited release of this beer and I was able to find this one online on many of the supporters beerpulse.com has. I heard great things about this beer. Not only is it a quad, which is one of my favorite styles of beer, but also bourbon barrel aged. It is essentially the Sixth Glass in bourbon barrels with cherries

Aromas cherries, rich vanilla, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, pecans, dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, oak, wine grapes, port wine, good cheese and wine, flan, cinnamon, rye bread, earthiness, bananas, clove, funky notes and brandy

Flavors are of cherries, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, wine grapes, oak, dark fruits, raisins, figs, bananas, flan, brandy, good wine and cheese, cinnamon, brown sugar, candied sugar, dark cherries, pecan pie, walnuts and tart raspberry

Aftertaste is like a wine and fancy cheese glazed with dark fruit spread on rye bread. Oh yeah, and bourbon too. A definite sipper with alcohol presence but not present in the flavor.

Overall, the beer is freaking great. Fancy and delicious. It does not taste like BBQ but I am absolutely certain it sure pairs marvelously with a BBQ Chicken or Pork dinner. This is delicious as hell. Boulevard makes some awesome beers and I have only had the privilege to try few as they are from Colorado. Many will come soon. As far as this beer goes, it is definitely recommended. Yes it passes the extra credit course!!

Alaska’s Most Wanted Series: Berserker by Midnight Sun Brewing

October 10, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Alaska beers, Alaska's Most Wanted, Berserker, Berserker Imperial Stout, bourbon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, dark chocolate, Fate Stay Night, Imperial Stout, Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels, Maple Syrup, midnight sun brewing, Oak aged, oak barrels, Ramirez Liquor, Saber, world class beers, World Class Imperial Stout | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.35/5

Alaska’s Most Wanted Series: Berserker by Midnight Sun Brewing is a 12.7% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with maple syrup & molasses all aged in oak bourbon barrels

Label:
Vicious and viscous, this menacing brew pours opaque black with a creamy maduro-colored head. Its aroma offers seductive whiskey, chewy red wine, dark fruit and lavish tobacco. Berserker Imperial Stout invades your taste buds with in-your-face flavor. Weighing in at almost 13% alcohol by volume, Berserker is completely out-of-control. Give it a good fight.
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This is the first time I try this very epic beer. I heard great things about this beer and long behold, Ramirez Liquor had this in stock for review. Depending as to how this turns out, I think I will grab another bottle although I doubt there will be anymore left. Regardless, if you are able to find this beer just get it.

Aromas are of strong dark chocolate, milk chocolate, mocha, dark fruits, raisins, plums, strong with pecan and hazelnut notes, marshmallow, almonds, toasted coconut hints, flan, forward bourbon, rich caramel, toffee, maple syrup, oak, vanilla, molasses, licorice, anise, fudge cake and brownies

Flavors are of rich velvety maple syrup oak, bourbon, vanilla, dark chocolate, molasses, raisins, dark cherries, black berries, wine grapes, port wine, caramel, marshmallows, toasted coconut, roasted coffee notes, pecans, hazel nut, campfire oak and a banana notes.

The after taste leaves with a bit of bourbon, roasted notes, berry notes, maple sweetness and roasted coffee bitterness. Definite sipper and has a moderately boozy alcohol presence but does not detract from the flavors. In fact it seems to be what adds the extra complexity to this beer. Although the bitterness may also take a little bit from it.

Over this is pretty kick ass and awesome. This beer is lovely and syrupy focusing a lot on the bourbon, oak, maple and berry flavors but also focuses on roasted bitterness. It is not bad but some people that may want more sweetness or super duper complexity will be left wanting more as the bitterness may get in the way. I like bitterness on this though. It surely does not disappoint. It does exceed my expectation points and gets some extra credit, but not the chocolate level of supreme that I enjoy in these types of beers. Still a freaking great beer.

2013 Barrel Roll No. 1 Immelmann by Hangar 24

October 7, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barrel Roll, Barrel Roll No.1, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Porter, bourbon barrels, chocolate hazelnut, dark chocolate, Do a Barrel Roll, Hangar 24, Immelmann, Imperial Porter, Krystal, Krystal Fox, marshmallows, Nintendo, Star Fox | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

2013 Barrel Roll No. 1 Immelmann by Hangar 24 is a 11.4% ABV Imperial Porter aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
IMMELMANN: An ascending half loop followed by a half roll resulting in level flight in the opposite direction at a higher altitude

Just as it takes consummate skill to perform the Immelmann maneuver in the air, it takes the choicest ingredients, patience and consummate skill to bring you our IMMELMANN, a Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Porter. This hand crafted beer is brewed with 2-Row, Munich, Cara-Munich, Chocolate and Dark Chocolate Malts, Oats and Cocoa Nibs, along with whole Vanilla Beans. Aged in Bourbon Barrels for six months and blended with twenty percent fresh Porter to produce enticing aromas of chocolate, coffee, tobacco, bourbon and sweet malt along with a complex pallet of dark roast chocolate, oak and maple followed by a subtle vanilla finish. This is an intense, yet refined flavor experience to be savored today or aged to be enjoyed at your leisure.
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Do a Barrel Roll!! This was the first beer in Hangar 24’s Barrel Aged “Barrel Roll” program which was first released back in 2010. They released it again in 2013 and have decided to keep it California limited. I was lucky to barely get a bottle of this one to review. This one I got at Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights, one of the best rare treasure beer shops in Los Angeles since I first started looking for rare beers. It sold out within the first couple of hours of it being posted on the internet. If you are lucky to find this one and enjoy the barrel roll series, definitely pick this on up.

Aromas are of milk chocolate, hazelnut nectar, pecans, rocky road ice cream, dulce de leche caramel, coconut, bourbon, oak, vanilla, molasses, mocha, coffee, flan, brown sugar, campfire smoke hints, tobacco and almond joy

The flavors are of bourbon, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, pecan pie, caramel flan, dulce de leche, toasted coconut, vanilla, oak, mocha, molasses, brown sugar, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, tobacco, almond joy chocolate, cherry notes and some smokey notes

The aftertaste is of rich chocolate, hazelnut, almonds, caramel and bourbon. This is a sipper and meant to be enjoyed. The alcohol is barely noticeable and does not interfere with the rich flavors.

Overall it exceeds expectations, mainly due to the rich chocolate, caramel, mocha and bourbon flavors. This does not seems like a porter but more like a stout or strong ale yet the porter flavors are there in some aspect as it is pretty freaking sweet (Both is flavor and awesomeness of course) It is close to Pugachev’s cobra but still missing some more richer flavors. Yet, still flies the beer treasure skies of space and beyond. Definitely do this barrel roll!!

Bourbon Barrel Aged Smashed Pumpkin by Shipyard Brewing

September 23, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Astaroth, Astarotto, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon whiskey, oak barrels, Pumpkin, pumpkin ale, Pumpkin beer, pumpkin flesh, pumpkin seeds, Shinra Bansho, Shinra Banshou, Shinrabansho, Shipyard, Smashed Pumpkin, sweet potato pie, Whiskey, whiskey bourbon | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Smashed Pumpkin by Shipyard Brewing is a 12% ABV Pumpkin Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
Our Bourbon Barrel Aged ales are brewed and carefully cellar-aged in small batches in dedicated bourbon barrels at our brewery in Portland, Maine.

Hops: Willamette, Saphir
Malts: Pale, Whole Wheat, Munich
Yeast: Top-fermenting English
Color: Honey
Aroma: Oak spiced, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon
Body: Light to medium
Finish: Warming, smooth, and velvety
IBU: 35
SRM 14.85

Recommended Serving temperature is 55 deg. Fahrenheit in brandy-style stemware. Aged over 100 days. Unlimited shelf life
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As an added bonus last year, Shipyard released this hard to get beer along with their awesome smashed pumpkin yearly release (which to me is the “best common” pumpkin beer ever). Unfortunately, I was never able to pick this release up until recently. One of the local places had it in stock for a limited time. So as pay back for last year of missing out on this beer to review, I will spend no time wasted and get on with the show.

Aromas are of rich vanilla, whiskey, bourbon, oak, pumpkin, dulce de leche caramel, honey, squash, brown sugar, pilloncillo sugar cone, maple, cinnamon, sweet potatoes, toasty coconut, chocolate hints, flan, pecans, nutmeg, coriander and citrus.

The flavors are of oak and whiskey. Vanilla, coconut, pumpkin pie, pecans, nutmeg, cinnamon, whipped creamed flan, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk, maple, sweet potatoes, marshmallows, chocolate notes, graham crackers, pumpkin flesh in pilloncillo sugar cone syrup, milk, brown sugar, cloves, coriander, citrus and ginger pumpkin bread.

The aftertaste is oaky and sweet with pumpkin and bourbon whiskey lingering. This beer is boozy and is definitely a sipper. Do not let the moderate body fool you. The mouth feel on this is close to syrupy. YUM!!

Overall, this is way better than the original smashed pumpkin. I think I drank this way too fresh as the booze was not well hidden. It is not a problem at all as I rather enjoyed those sweet oak and whiskey notes. They compliment the pumpkin very well. This, however, needs sometime to sit in a cellar for a while in order to become exquisite or exceed expectations. Nevertheless, An awesome beer that has become on par with some of my other Barrel aged and non-barrel aged pumpkin beers I have reviewed here.

Original Smashed Pumpkin Review:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/31/smashed-pumpkin-by-shipyard-brewing/

Allagash Bourbon Barrel Black by Allagash brewing

September 18, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Allagash, Allagash Black, Allagash Bourbon Barrel Black, Allagash brewing, belgian dark chocolate, Belgian Stout, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Stout, bourbon barrels, chocolate raisins, Dark Belgian Stout, Legend of Zelda, Midna, oak barrels, Zelda | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5 *Bring on the chocolate

Allagash Bourbon Barrel Black by Allagash brewing is a 9.2% ABV Belgian Stout aged in Oak Bourbon Barrels

Description (Beeradvocate.com):
Our Belgian Style Stout, Black, aged for one year in bourbon barrels. The toffee,chocolate and coconut nose is followed by a smooth bitter chocolate and bourbon flavor. The finish is dry, roasted and warming.
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First heard of this one several months ago. It was believed that back then this would only be released in small quantities from Portland Maine. Not very many online places will ship this. Some will depending on where you live. I hope we can expect more as the time comes. As I mentioned in other reviews about Belgian Stouts, these tend to be some of my favorite styles of beer. Allagash Black was very good after the many times I have tried it. Now for a Barrel Aged version? Well, we shall see how seductive this one is.

Aromas are of coffee, caramel, mocha notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, raisins, oak, bourbon hints, vanilla, slight coconut aroma, pecans, dark fruit, fudge brownie notes and cherry hints

The flavors are of rich milk chocolate, dark chocolate, coffee, mocha, pecans, hazelnut spread, dulce de leche caramel notes, bourbon notes, slight oak and smokey notes, vanilla, dark fruits like cherries, raisins, plums, chocolate cake batter, brownies, coconut notes, spicy cloves, anise and almond joy chocolate

The aftertaste leaves with a nice chocolate brownie sweetness along with smoke and oak notes to keep stuff balanced. Not in the realm of super strong barrel aged beers but the alcohol is super hidden. Definitely a sipper and meant to be enjoyed for a while

Overall, the beer freaking great. The bourbon, although subtle, brings forth new flavors as well brings about stronger flavors, especially the chocolate and caramel. The flavors get more complex as the beer warms up. Similar to the Folklore Pappy Van Winkle, this beer brings a whole lot to the style. The beer just starts to give out a great amount of coconut, chocolate, dark fruits, bourbon and caramel as it warms. Goes to show, that even for a barrel aged beer under 10% ABV, might be worth the price.

Original Allagash Black Review
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/03/15/allagash-black-by-allagash-brewing/

Bourbon Peach by Unity Vibration

September 6, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Bourbon Peach, bourbon vanilla, campfires, distinctive flavors, fermentation process, Kombucha, Kombucha beer, lemon grass, Peach, sour ale, sour dough bread, Unity Vibration, Wild ale, Wild yeast | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5 *Kombucha Rating

Bourbon Peach by Unity Vibration is a 7% ABV Kombucha Wild Ale brewed with peaches and aged in bourbon barrels

Label:
Our Bourbon Barrel Aged Kombucha has double the rich, delicious bourbon flavor as it ages with juicy, whole, organic peaches. This unique beverage is a culmination of the ancient process of kombucha brewing, paired with the newer brewing process of a uniquely American high gravity ale.

Reminiscent of summer campfires and refreshing swims in the great lakes, out kombucha beer is always unfiltered, raw and living. Taste the freshness and distinctive flavors you can only find with this process and unique combination
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First thing to note about this beverage, is that it is very important and I mean, VERY IMPORTANT!! to open near a sink. The moment I opened this beer, a lot of the pressure was released causing me to lose some of the liquid . Fortunately I saved a good portion of it. This the first time I try a Kombucha beer so I will try my best at reviewing this one.

Kombucha (昆布茶 or Japanese “Kelp Tea”), as referred to here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kombucha ) is a special type of effervescent fermented tea using bacteria and yeast as part of the fermentation. It was definitely effervescent since the bubbles would not stop even as type this. This sucker is really alive!! This also says it could be good for health. Well, that depends I guess. I cannot make any claims on that. Most Kombuchas are non alcoholic. This one is. So I guess it depends on the fermentation process used by Unity Vibration

Aromas of this are of mushrooms, apricot, funky notes, sourdough, vanilla, oak, peaches, lemon grass, vinegary grassy notes, pears, flowers and other fruits. The sour and funky fragrances come more across than the sweeter fruity side here.

The Flavors are… wow!… I was expecting this to be as strong as the nose. Not at all like the nose. The vinegary sour notes are only in the nose. The taste is much much sweeter with very nice tangy notes. Sweet Peaches, apples, pears, tangy cherry, sugar cubes, vanilla, slight oak, mushrooms, lemonade, grassy and vegetable notes, black tea, slight funky notes, sour dough bread, honey, peach preserves, light bourbon notes, maple syrup, brown sugar, coriander, wheat and grapefruit juice.

After taste us pretty dry leaving a little bit of a sugary plant feel. It tingles going down but easy to drink.

Overall was at awe as to how different this beer was. It somewhat defies logic in taste and aromatic expectations. They seem very different. This is a very unique forth coming creation into the craft beer movement. I am not sure if it should be categorized as beer as it falls into the realms of beer/cider/wine/tea/mead and lambics. Very unique stuff and very delicious in its own category.

Very Angry Beast by Clown Shoes Brewing

August 22, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Angry Beast, Barrel Aged, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon vanilla, chocolate pecans, clown shoes, Clown Shoes Brewing, Clown Shoes Very Angry Beast, Clown Shows Angry Beast, dessert, Halibel, historical, Imperial Stout, Neliel, Nelliel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, porcine unidragon, Russian Imperial Stout, Stout, sweet milk chocolate, Tia Halibel, Tia Harribel, Vampire Slayer, Very Angry Beast, World class | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.55/5*

Very Angry Beast by Clown Shoes Brewing is an 11.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout blended with equal parts of Blaecorn Unidragon and Vampire Slayer both aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Hoppy Feet guy extinguished evil via a sharp stake through an undead chest. Now, Blaecorn Unidragon, full of fury, has expelled another bloodsucker from Earth. We hate vampires, but love Vampire Slayer, which we blended in equal parts with Blaecorn Unidragon, bourbon barrel aging the mix to beget Very Angry Beast.
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I have been following this series carefully since the first release of the awesome Blaecorn Unidragon. Both Blaecorn and Vampire slayer very awesome beers as well as the Porcine Unidragon. When they aged the Blaecorn Unidragon and blended it with basic vampire slayer, that was awesome within itself. Now both are blended for the ultimate concoction.

Aromas are of deep bourbon vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, flan,coconut, dark chocolate, graham crackers, bit of rocky road ice cream, sweet milk chocolate, pecans, almond joy, mocha coffee, toffee, butterscotch, chocolate cake and some dark fruit notes.

The flavors are of bourbon, lots of nice warm bourbon (not overwhelming boozy, just sweetnes) and oak flavors, vanilla, roasted coffee, dark chocolate, coconut, marshmallows, raisins, butterscotch, almond joy, not as big on the rocky road as the smell but some notes are there. There are also flavors of black berries, possibly dark cherry notes, dulce de leche caramel notes, graham crackers, earthy hops, fudge brownies, more bakers chocolate that sweet milk chocolate, almost semi sweet but the flavors seems to work. Some other flavors are of mocha, honey glazed ham notes and brown sugar.

After taste is a litle boozy leaving very nice residue of vanilla, coffee, chocolate, bourbon and minor smokey notes. While the beer can be boozy later on after several sips, it is quite the smooth beer. Take heed though, while it is easy to drink it will hit. This dynamic duo of Femme Fatale (Obviously referencing the art ) shows no mercy

Overall it was quite an overwhelming experience in many aspects. Beers that go over the 5 rating seem to be beers that usually are Chocolate extreme or amazingly sweet or caramel extreme or just something that is way out of the ordinary in terms of flavor. This beer, while it may not have reached the heights of chocolate, the concoction of the bourbon, the coffee notes, dark fruit notes, buttery caramel, vanilla rich, the oaky and let us not forget the chocolate, is what set the score for me. Really great job by Clown Shoes brewing in bringing this amazing beer to the hands of many. Salute to you and Cheers!!

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Blaecorn Unidragon Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/blaecorn-unidragon-russian-imperial-stout-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

Vampire Slayer Review:https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/03/27/vampire-slayer-by-clown-shoes-brewing/

Angry Beast Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/angry-beast-by-clown-shoes/

Porcine Unidragon Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/13/porcine-unidragon-by-clown-shoes/

Barrel Noir by Almanac Beer Co.

August 12, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Almanac Brewing, American Imperial Stout, Barrel Noir, Belgian Dark Ale, belgian dark chocolate, Belgian Stout, Belgian Strong Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, chocolate coconut, chocolate coffee, dark chocolates, espresso coffee, Imperial Stout, leche flan, Orta, Panzer Dragoon, Panzer Dragoon Orta, warm fireplace | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.6/5*

Barrel Noir by Almanac Beer Co. is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout with 50% Belgian Dark Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels and 50% American Imperial Stout

Label:
This oak-aged ale is our love letter to bourbon barrels. Barrel Noir is a sumptuous, inky ale that celebrates the velvety texture and subtle heat that only Kentucky charred oak can impart. Born from a blend of American imperial stout and Belgian-inspired dark ale aged in bourbon barrels, this rich brew can be paired with braised beef dishes and dark chocolates. Enjoyed best in front of a warm fireplace.
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There are very few Belgian Stouts out there that can take beers to new levels. The style is simply one of my top favorites. Some of these beers are coveted while others are easier to find. Today, I try this one which has been partially aged in bourbon barrels. Many of the ingredients are farm grown locally. So a lot of them are fresh. Upon opening the beer, I knew was another awesome special chocolate beer.

Aromas are of rich milk chocolate, dark chocolate, coconut, bourbon, vanilla, dark fruits, dulce de leche, flan, marshmallows, espresso coffee notes, brown sugar, candi sugar and sweet Belgian bread notes

The flavors are of very rich milk chocolate, rocky road ice cream, pecans, walnuts, almond joy chocolate, coconut cream, vanilla, raisins, prunes, hints of minor cherry and raspberry notes, bourbon, oak, hints of Kahlua, dulce de leche caramel, flan, chocolate cake with brownie batter and minor earthy bitterness to balance it all out.

Aftertaste leaves with nice chocolate, coffee cake and minor earthy notes along with a bit of vanilla. The alcohol is not too fondly present and makes it nice. Very hidden.

Overall, this beer is simply amazing. Sweet to a not too overwhelming level, yet so many flavors and to a certain point, moderate drink-ability. This beer is a fusion of a bourbon barrel aged quad and an imperial stout which is not something that is done often. So I really think that the right level of brewing fusion is what really makes it outstanding and different from others. The dominating characters that each part brings to the table is simply exquisite. I love chocolate beers, so the extra points in rating are for those awesome awesome chocolate flavors but also because it works so well. A must try for anyone that is a stout and Belgian beer fan. If they ever make this in larger bottles and more available, that would be the best!!

*Overwhelming with milk chocolate, yet not to the super sweet level and enough to give great complexity

Barrel Aged Siren Noire Heavy Seas Uncharted Series 2013 by Clipper City Brewing

July 27, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged bakers chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Stout, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, cacao nibs, Chocolate, chocolate coconut, chocolate fudge brownies, Clipper City, Diabetes in a bottle, Fate Zero, Fate Zero Assasin, flan, Heavy Seas, Imperial Stout, malt flavors, Mexican Flan, restaurants, Siren Noire | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5*

Barrel Aged Siren Noire Heavy Seas Uncharted Series 2013 by Clipper City Brewing is a 9.5% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Chocolate and aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
Siren Noire
Rich and velvety, this smooth brew owes its full body to healthy additions of imported specialty grains. The roasted malt flavors of coffee yield to notes of mocha, fig, and raisin – and Belgian cacao nibs impart a decadent chocolate nuance. Bourbon barrel aging finishes by adding tones of vanilla. An unparalleled flavor experience

So I got this on whim. I wanted to get the Holy Sheet Belgian ale they had but unfortunately for me it may already be to late. Well, better luck next year I guess. Anyways, I found this one and I wanted to try as it was a Barrel Aged beer and from a brewery I have never tried before. So I decided to give it a try and damn, what a treasure it was as soon as I opened the bottle.

Aromas exploded with a great ton of coconut, chocolate, marshmallows, almonds, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de caramel (Rocky road fragrances), flan, mocha coffee notes, deep java, frappucino,

The flavors are way too damn close to rocky road ice cream and coffee to put it as best as possible. Bitterness is definitely like an earthy and it is also oaky slightly. Flavors are are of milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows, hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans, chocolate cheese cake, flan, crème brulee, mocha, frappucino and chocolate fudge brownies

The Aftertaste leaves off sweet with nice chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, flan and mocha notes. No alcohol presence and the flavors are complex and intense, I am surprised how they could develop these very nice flavors from such an ABV.

Amazingly enough, while it is not strong with the alcohol, it has a lot of sweet flavors. This is too damn good. I wish I could get this beer more frequently. This is really good. If you are lucky enough to find it and live Bourbon Barrel Aged beers, go get this right away. Coffee flavored Rocky Road ice cream in liquid form.

*I am a chocolate beer fanatic, so the rating maybe a bit bias but I swear, this is like rocky road ice cream in liquid form. Maybe not to the Parabola level but enough to notice. Oh, and Lots of nice coffee to go with it too

Black Butte XXV (25th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery

July 22, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, bakers chocolate, Black Butte, Black Butte XXV, black currants, blue berries, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, chocolate aroma, chocolate mocha coffee, cocoa nibs, coconut fruit, currants, Dates, Deschutes Black Butte XXV, Deschutes Brewery, Deschutes Brewing, Dubbel, Figs, Imperial Porter, Legend of Zelda, LOZ, Midna, Porter, Quad, Twilight Princess | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5

Black Butte XXV (25th Anniversary Reserve) by Deschutes Brewery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with dates, figs and cocoa nibs with 50% aged in bourbon barrels and 12.5% with black currants added.

Label:
Dates, figs and chocolate. Black currants, barrel-aged in bourbon casks. The result is an Imperial Porter with a tart berry and chocolate aroma with luscious layers of dried fruit, oak and vanilla. A fitting tribute to the 25th Anniversary of our flagship beer
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I did a review of this beer last year (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/01/black-butte-xxiv-by-dechutes/ )

However, this year they mixed it up a bit by adding dates, currants, figs and cocoa nibs making this one a very special beer. Probably close to a Dubbel/Porter Hybrid

Aromas are of bananas, chocolate, raisins cherries, black berries, blue berries, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, oak, vanilla, toasted coconut, fruit cake, mocha, currants, bit of wine grapes and sweetened condensed milk. Smells like the ultimate chocolate fruit dessert. Awesome.

The flavors are of milk, dark and bakers chocolate, mocha, coffee, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel notes, oak, bourbon, currants, cherries, blackberries, blue berries, raspberries, dates, figs, toffee, banana notes, tart wine grape notes, coconut, lots of bread quad and dubbel notes and chocolate port wine fruit cake.

The after taste is pretty sweet leaving with a nice roasted coffee bitterness followed by lots of berries, vanilla and caramel to help it along. It finishes a little dry but that is the best part too. Due to this beer’s complexity and dryness, it just makes you want to sip more. Careful though, that is how it it teases you. You see, once you start, you may like and sip after sip you won’t realize that you finished the entire bottle.

This beer taste a lot like the Brewdog/ Stone Collaboration Bashah in Raspberries and Highland Whiskey Barrels. Lots of fruit, a great amount of chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, bananas and more. I never tried the XXI version of this beer but if that one is a lot like Chocolate Rain, awesome, but this beer is phenomenal in the chocolate berry department. It really did turn out similar to a Dubbel/ Porter hybrid. I would say the difference between this beer and my last review of the Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout, is that the other one has more pecans and caramel chocolate where this one is more berries and chocolate. Quite the different spectrum here. But the hybrid is similar. Some type of Belgian Stout or Porter aged in Bourbon barrels. Close enough to some of the best beers I have reviewed on the blog which have exceeded my limits.

Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout collaboration

July 21, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged arrogant bastard, Asuka, Asuka Langley Shikinami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Asuka Shikinami Soryu, beer collaboration, beer geeks, Beer Hybrid, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Stout, bourbon barrels, caramel pecan pie, chocolate pecan pie, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, Collaboration beers, Drew Curtis, Evangelion, Fark.com, Geek Beer, Greg Koch, Hop Heads, Imperial Stout, Mari, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Neon Genesis Evangelion, pecan pie, quadruple, Rei, Rei Ayanami, rye bread, rye toast, sci fi, star trek the next generation, Stone, Stone Brewing, stone brewing co, Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout, Toasted Coconut, toasted pecans, toasted rye bread, wheat, Wil Wheaton | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.6/5

Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout collaboration is a 13% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with rye, pecans, wheat, hops, awesome (beer + sci-fi)*geek ideologies with a 1/4 of it aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Wil Wheaton first called us in 2004 ask if it’d be OK for him to put the Arrogant Bastard logo on his blog’s website (back when people still asked permission to do such things), and I just so happened to answer the phone (back when I still answered the main line sometimes). Since he was so damn enthusiastic about our beers, I said ‘Sure, no problem,’ all the while thinking ‘Hmmm…this guy’s name sounds familiar.’

Months later, in a serendipitous turn of fate, I reached out to our 10,000th email newsletter subscriber…drumroll…Wil Wheaton. Since his gigs in the iconic Stand By Me and Star Trek: The Next Generation, Wil has become quite the renaissance man, adding author, w00tstock innovator, and homebrewer to his resume. His enthusiasm for the fermentable arts and our beer was such that after many occasions of sharing grog over the years, we decided it was time to brew in collaboration.

It was a no-brainer for us to choose Drew Curtis—who many know as the twisted mind behind Fark.com—as our third cohort. Drew was an old friend of Wil’s that I had serendipitously met (when he saw me and told me, ‘Dude, I love your beer) and enjoyed many beers with at the famous TED conference three years in a row. The beer you hold before you is an imperial stout made with wheat (Wil pretty much insisted), and we also paid tribute to Drew’s Kentucky roots by adding rye and pecans to the mix and partially aging the beer in bourbon barrels. The result? Nothing short of serendipitous.”

Greg Koch @stonegreg CEO & Co-founder, Stone Brewing Co. & Beer Seek

“Being a geek isn’t about what you love; it’s about how you love it. I’m a sci-fi geek, a disruptive technology geek, and a tabletop game geek. I’ve been lucky to do lots of work in those fields, but this is the first time I got to be a professional beer geek, and it was awesome.”

Wil Wheaton | @wilw Actor, Homebrewer & Professional Seek

“Beer tastes like my website…all over the map, but I’ve never met a beer I didn’t like.”

Drew Curtis | @drewcurtis Founder, Fark.com & News Geek
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Phew!! (@_@;)

That was a lot of writing for a label of a beer that mixes a couple of geek hobbies and ideologies into one. Kinda like my blog

Aromas are of vanilla, mild Black Tuesday-ish aromas of milk and dark chocolate, pecan pie, caramel, bourbon, oak, hazelnuts, coconut, raisins, plums, rye bread, mild banana wheat, licorice, molasses and brown sugar

The Flavors are of milk and dark chocolate, mocha, dulce de leche caramel on pecan pie with rye pie crust, toffee, coffee notes, bourbon notes, vanilla, coconut, raisin bread pudding with pecans, almonds and hazelnuts, plums, dark cherries, bananas, slight wine grapes, earthy hops, mint, licorice, molasses, coriander, citrus, and butterscotch spread on wheat toast.

The beer is mildly boozy but the nice chocolate, vanilla rye and wheat make up for it. It is also sweet but not to overly sweet. Thanks to the hops to keep everything together.

Lot’s off dessert elements going on here. This beer reminds me of like a Quadruple and Imperial Stout fusion aged in bourbon barrels but just enough to give it some added character and not detract flavors which ofcourse this beers already has a good amount of . Damn, they got it fucking right. Really fucking right. It seems to work. Stuff is balanced out and the beer is great. Beer geeks will love this one and well hopefully non-beer geeks too. Now I see why they made it so people go out and get all 3. It’s not just the labels, but the beer is that good as well.

Here are the links to the pics I took with the third label:
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/1000730_10101293641828370_142432273_n.jpg?w=960

https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/1070039_10101293641813400_1414027021_n.jpg?w=960

Or check out the Gallery

This is the third label original art:
http://socialpint.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Stone-w00stout_ComicLabel-WEB1.jpg

Bird on a Wire by Crispin Cider Company

July 7, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged american whiskey, apple wines, Bird on a wire, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, bourbon whiskey, Cider, cider apples, Crispin Bird on a wire, Crispin Cider, Dulce de leche, flan, hard apple cider, Hatsune Miku, Mexican Flan, mexican vanilla, Miku, Rye Whiskey, Whiskey, whiskey barrels, whiskey bourbon, whiskey cask | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5 *Rating based on ciders reviewed and compared so far only

Bird on a Wire by Crispin Cider Company is a 6.9% ABV Blended Hard Cider aged in Bourbon whiskey casks with Tupelo Honey.

Label:
Authentic American alt.country cider. Not forever, just for now.

Dances across the palate, like a band playing and people swayin’. Spend some time, wait a minute. Set it free.
Blended using 4 unique apple-wines aged in both rye and Bourbon American whiskey barrels. Apple-wines fermented with:Irish Stout yeast, Belgian Trappist yeast,Sake yeast and our original Colfax Classic.

The final blend is finished with Tupelo Honey aged in Bourbon barrels and a lingering open-mouthed kiss of fresh-pressed apple juice.
Balanced and very smooth, toasted oaktannins, whiskey notes, with soft rye spice, cask-woody vanilla and cinnamon.

Blended straight from whiskey barrels.Give a solid bottoms-up tilt and swirl to disperse sediment evenly and best enjoy whiskey aromas and unique bouquet.

Enjoyed at cellar temperature, 50/55F.With or without 1 or 2 ice cubes. Age-worthy.
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Regardless of being a Coors subordinate, they make some hell good ciders. So far I have reviewed the ciders fermented in Irish Stout yeast and Trappist yeast, the latter being my favorite. Now I think I have a new favorite with this one.

First aromas that come as soon as you open the bottle is whiskey and rich stuff at that. It is followed by that bourbon vanilla sweetness, caramel, coconut, rye bread, cinnamon, apple, honey, oak, spices and brown sugar.

The flavors are of cider apples, whiskey, bourbon vanilla, oak, slight coconut notes, dulce de leche caramel flan notes, honey, crème brulee, white wine, champagne, brown sugar, cinnamon, french toast with apple butter, rye bread and cinnamon, bear claw doughnut with apples and cinnamon, and apple pie with rich caramel.

No doubt about it, a little at that, but still freaking amazing. Really brings about great Cask/Barrel aged goodness as some of the best bourbon liquors and bourbon aged beers can bring but in cider form. Who knew cider can deliver a good level of craft in its own way. I gotta find more of these bottles. They need to make 22oz. Bottles of this or even make like a 6 pack. This would make for a great cider for people to try for those that are skeptical of trying the Craft Cider side of beverage connoisseurship.

White Oak by The Bruery

June 24, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Agrias, Agrias Oaks, Belgian Pale Ale, Blaze Blue, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, BPA, Bruery, fft, Final Fantasy Tactics, makoto, makoto nanaya, Mischief, The Bruery, wheat wine, Wheat-Wine Ale, White Chocolate, White Oak, White Oak Sap | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

White Oak by The Bruery is a 11.5% ABV Wheat Wine blend consisting 50% of “Mischief” Belgian Pale Ale and 50% of the “White Oak Sap” Wheat Wine aged in bourbon barrels. This is the base of the awesome “White Chocolate” Ale which I reviewed some time last year.

Label:
Vivid caramel-esque, coconut-like and vanilla-ish flavors blanketed in a crisp yet robust wheat ale. White oak is suitable for aging up to two years when cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55 deg F (13 deg Celcius) in a dark place.
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This beer is the original form of the pre-White Chocolate. I first tried it several days ago and I had to grab a bottle to do a review.

Aromas start off with a Belgian bread and Saison notes. Smells like matured citrus fruits, orange, mango, lemons, vanilla, bananas, cloves, caramel, bourbon, oak, biscuit bread, honey, coconut, some minor floral and funky notes.

The flavors consist of vanilla, oak, bourbon, caramel, citrus, notes brettanomyces, banana, matured orange, lemon peel, apricots, mango, toasty coconuts, very subtle pineapple, wine grapes, honey, maple, biscuit bread, waffle cone, clove spice, coriander, herbal and floral hops like the Belgian Pale Ale. The after taste is definitely citrus, bourbon, wine and cheese party. Flavors are kind of all over the place but it surely is a different beer. When Imagine how the Vanilla beans and the Cocoa Nibs were added and barrel aged some more, a minor amount of the base flavors were hidden to give way to a much more sweet white chocolate flavor. Now that, is the best part I remember about the other beer which is the part that really confuses me. How is is that when you add the vanilla and cocoa nibs and age it, it creates something simply extraordinary. Alas, that is the mystery and the glory of the brewing process.

As being the base component of the White Chocolate, I can see why this beer reminds me a lot of the Bourbon and Barrel Aged Stone beers I have had before. Similar to the Red Wine Saison du Buff or the Double Bastard Bourbon Barrel Aged beer. Those beers were really different. More to the wine and cheese party after taste which morphs which gives confusion to the taste buds, but in a very nice way.

White Chocolate Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/

Bois (5th anniversary) by The Bruery

June 6, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged 5th anniversary ale, Barrel Aged Beer, best beers in the world, bois, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, chocolate pecan pie, coton, cuir, Evengelion, fifth anniversary gift, Fruet, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Old Ale, Papier, raisin bread pudding, Rei, Rei Ayanami, robust ale, Solera, Solera method, The Bruery, wine grapes, world class beers | 3 Comments

Rating: 5.9/5 * Just take my word for it, this, like their other anniversary ales are exquisitely World Class

Bois (5th anniversary) by The Bruery is a 15%ABV World Class Old Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
This sturdy beer marks our fifth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (beeradvocate.com)
The traditional fifth anniversary gift is something made of wood, or “Bois” in French.

Bois is our fifth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain and then blended using the solera method. A portion of each of our anniversary ales is saved in our barrels and blended in with the next year’s production, providing more complexity and depth of character that comes with age. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit,vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, Bois is a robust ale, surely the perfect beer to mark this major milestone.
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I was able to finally get a hold of this beer. Every year they keep adding more of the and more. This one is no exception to the previous. I already know it is going to be awesomely great.

Aromas start with bananas drenched in vanilla and dulce de leche caramel, Roasted Coconut, Chocolate, pecan pie, dark fruits like raisins, plums, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, sherry, apples, Flan, vanilla, sweet condenced milk (Lechera), crème brulee, oak wood, toffee, marshmallows, rum, bourbon, brown sugar and burnt sugars

Flavors of this beer are of ripe bananas, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, vanilla, oak, bourbon, rum, apples, peach, raisins, figs, dates, prunes, cherries, pecan hazelnut pie, marshmallows, flan, sweetened condenced milk (Lechera), crème brulee, super fancy chocolate, white chocolate, wine grapes, maple, sourdough and rye bread, toffee, sherry, burnt sugar, brown sugar, butterscotch and raisin bread pudding.The mouth feel is thick and the boozyness is there but in a good way. Has like a caramel, fruit and wine aftertaste.

What can I say but another fine year and another fine masterpiece from the Bruery. I think the fact that there are slightly more vinous and bourbon sugar flavor to it this year than last year is the fact that the Papier they added with every batch is adding more and more complexity to it a la Solera method. I am sure their other varieties are over the top. But even the regular Bois is just simply brilliant! Definitely have to get another one for aging. This beer will only get better as time goes. If you get the chance to get this beer, do not miss out!! It is not as exclusive as Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain, White Chocolate, Melange 3 or others, but still up there in the awesome levels and ratings.

Click here for last year’s anniversary ale (FRUET)https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/31/fruet-by-the-bruery/

Darkest Hour (Batch#1) by Anchorage brewing

May 31, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Anchorage Brewing, Belgian imperial Stout, Belgian Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Darkest Hour, French Oak, Imperial Stout, natural carbonation, Pinot Noir, rich flavors, rye whisky, Saccharomyces, The Darkest Hour, Tripel, Triple fermented, whisky barrels, Wine yeast | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/5

Darkest Hour (Batch#1) by Anchorage brewing is a 13%ABV Belgian Imperial Stout aged in French oak Pinot Noir and Rye Whisky Barrels fermented as a Imperial Stout/ Tripel Hybrid

Label:
Triple Fermented.

Ale brewed with Summit hops. First with a Belgian yeast second in Pinot Noir and rye whisky barrels. And Finally in the bottle with a wine yeast for natural carbonation.

The hour of darkness is one of slumber for most. There are those, however, that do their best diabolical work when left to their own devices in the dark underworld. These creatures toil silently and mysteriously, transforming their subjects into an alluring liquid that, by the light of day is as dark as the night, but with truly enlightening qualities when beholden by those in search of good things.

Such is the case with the mighty Saccharomyces as it converts the complex sugars of Anchorage Brewing Company’s The Darkest Hour, into brooding, almost dangerous Belgian Style Imperial Stout, borne of complex malts, subtle, but distinctive hops and a stern command from the master’s hand that all things that come to life must be good. From the dark depths of the oak awakes this mighty brew that at 13 percent alcohol gives pause to the mortals of lesser fortitude.

Sip deeply, but imbibe slowly, lest you succumb to the dark powers of this melancholy brew with deep, rich flavors. Drink in the darkness if you must, but edge closer to the fire if one’s kindled nearby. The Darkest Hour will fill your palate and your mind with things you may not have considered before. At Anchorage Brewing Company, we bid you good thoughts with the help of our newest creation.
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Been waiting a while for this release. It is not often that a rich Belgian chocolate desert such as the Belgian Imperial Stout is brewed. Being one of my favorite hidden styles is something I sure as hell do not pass up. Some examples of the style is the Buffalo Stout, Allagash Black, Stillwater Artisanal Folklore, Great Divide Belgian Yeti, Stone Belgo Anise RIS, Ommegang Chocolate Indulgence, Maui Aloha B’ak’tun, Elysian Omen, Ommegang Art of Darkness, The Lost Abbey Deliverance, Samuel Adams Thirteenth Hour Stout and to some extent, Trois Pistoles and Black Tuesday/Grey Monday/Chocolate Rain/Melange 3.

Aromas star off very similar to Black Tuesday but dwell in the in the Trois Pistoles zone. There is whiff of a lot of chocolate followed by grape wine, Bourbon, vanilla, Dulce de leche chocolate, raisins, flan, toffee, dark cherries, plums, oak, molasses, anise, coconut, black currants, raisin bread pudding, hazelnut, pecan pie, musty grapes and dates. The flavors are a lot like a wine. In fact, the beer seems closer to a wine to some degree. Like a sweet chocolate wine booziness. However, it also reminds me a lot of The Lost Abbey Deliverance. This is really cool as Deliverance only comes in a 330ml bottle. Quite the difference :D. You can still tell this is a Belgian Stout though. It has flavors of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, wine grapes, raisins, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, walnuts and pecan pie, flan, whisky, vanilla, currants, cherries, coconut, oak, slight smokiness, raisin bread pudding, light mocha, molasses and slight anise. The after taste leaves with like a dry walnut and grape chocolate taste. Pretty fancy stuff but not to the flavors of Black Tuesday. It smells awesome but if you don’t like wine, it may not be for you. I don’t mind this at all. It really is a different type of style. It is almost as if Trois Pistoles added more chocolate and leaned more toward the Pinot Noir than the Port Wine instead. Definitely worth the pickup. I enjoyed this one a lot.

Parabola Reserve Series No.004 Limited Release 2013 by Firestone Walker

April 29, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged 10th Anniversary, anniversary ale, art of brewing, beer fans, best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, Firestone Walker, Knights in the Nightmare, Maria, Oatmeal Stout, Parabola, Ramirez Liquor, Reserve Series, Reserve Series No.004, Russian Imperial Stout, Stout, world class beers | 2 Comments

Rating: 6/5* In the top 10 best of the world, it sure proved it’s worthiness.

Parabola Reserve Series No.004 Limited Release 2013 by Firestone Walker is a 13%ABV World Class Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Oatmeal Stout. Black Xantus’ Big brother 😀

Description:
Since founding our brewery in 1996, we have specialized in the rare art of brewing beer in oak barrels. In the fall of 2006, we embarked on a program to barrel age a series of vintage strong ales that would later be used as components of blending beer. That blend would become our first Anniversary Ale, “10”.

After the release of “10”, we released limited amounts of the component beers on draft only. Many of these beers gained a cult following that craft beer fans raved about and begged for us to put in bottle. Parabola was one of these beers.
We present the 2013 vintage of Parabola, a barrel-aged Imperial Stout. It has been said that the only constant is change and the same is true for barrel aged beers. Cut from a similar recipe, Parabola evolves and shows a different face each year; a result of time spent again in the barrel.

Chocolate, charred oak, vanilla, black cherry and coffee are just some of the complex aromas and flavors you will find in this beer

Parabola is a one-of-a-kind sipping beer to last and will reward careful aging for years to come.

Ideal Aging Temperature 45F

OG: 29.5p [plato]
IBU: 82 [high]
Cases: 3500 produced [LTD]
Aged: 12 mo [time in barrel]
Yeast: British Ale [house]
Color: 167SRM [black]
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The mess I had to get in to find this beer. Just amazing. Even for Black Tuesday and Chocolate Rain I had to trade for it but it was easier to get than this beer. I almost left work early when I heard the new of it’s release. Driving on the freeway like a mad man, which is really something I have never done for a beer like this. In fact I wouldn’t do a lot of things for certain beers, even when they released Westy 12 in December 2012 I could care less. But this one was something that I really set my eyes on and was damned to get it. It was so hard to get that by the time I got there, it was literally the last one at a Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights, California. I was glad I made it on time. No limits for this release either when sold at their store. Maybe one day I will get another to age but now that I will review this for the masses, it may inspire those to go seek this black liquid gold for themselves, even if online.

Fragrances of this beer are very complex. Hershey’s milk chocolate, almonds, Mexican “cocada” coconut candy, oak, vanilla, bourbon, marshmallows, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk, flan, roasty sweet burnt notes, crème brulee, Kahlua coffee, cherries, raspberries, prunes, raisins, capirotada raisin bread pudding, molasses, hazelnut, brownies and a slight cola like smell that reminded me of a Port Wine like Trois Pistoles. Damn, this is very complex.

The Flavors are insane!!: You get a ridiculous amounts of chocolates like sweet, milk, dark, bakers and slight Abuelitas chocolate followed by vanilla, dulce de leche flan, bourbon, cocada coconut candy, roasted coconut, espresso, mocha, crème brulee, dulce de leche, raisins, cherries, raspberries, prunes, hazelnut and walnut capirotada raisin bread pudding, chocolate syrup, cocoa powder, molasses, chocolate chips ahoy cookies, oatmeal, sugar cream of wheat, marshmallows and slight port flavors.

Best way to describe this chocolate cake frosted coffee cake sprinkled with coconut, nuts, dipped in bourbon, made with portwine, dipped in bourbon, vanilla caramel glazed, mixed with fruits with Rocky Road Ice Cream on top and well, just a complete and utter dessert. Should I remind that the bitterness actually comes from the roasted coffee notes.

The insane part is that it is very balanced, very drinkable and un-overpowering, very smooth, and its freaking amazing as it it goes down. Like a nice chocolate and chewy syrup that coats the back of your throat but then becomes like a milk chocolate. The craft beer Holy Grail. This is not Black Tuesday or Chocolate Rain or even White Chocolate. However, this beer proved that it can actually transform with every sip. It’s evolution is insane. Which reminds me of why something like this would be called Parabola. (Skip this if you don’t like math 😛 ) If there was a graph depicting a change of flavors with every try, I would say it fits into the definition of a Parabola. The flavors change going from a bourbon coconut to an extreme chocolate upper limit, then back to a bourbon coconut. Ofcourse the flavors keep changing as you go along to what I described earlier. Also the temperature is in charge of these changes as well. Gets way better as it warms up. Yeah, even if you have to go out of your way to get this, I would recommend it by all means to anyone who has not tried this. Also, apparently, from past years, what may have also contributed to the high rating is the fact that even the Brewmaster said this is the best version yet. So there you have it. Get one for now, cellar one for later.

2011 Barrel Roll No. 3 Pugachev’s Cobra by Hangar 24

April 11, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged 2011 Barrel Roll No. 3, Barrel Roll, Barrel Roll No. 3, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, chocolate cake, Chocolate Rain, Do a Barrel Roll, Evangelion, Hangar 24, Krystal Fox, maple hints, Mari, Mari Illustrious Makinami, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Pugachev's Cobra, Russian Imperial Stout, Star Fox, vanilla, Victor Pugachev | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.8/5* Aged for 2 years, so the ABV is probably higher but the complexity is what gives it the high score.

2011 Barrel Roll No. 3 Pugachev’s Cobra by Hangar 24 is a 16.5%ABV Russian Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
PUGACHEV’S COBRA: The brainchild of Victor Pugachev — not for the faint of heart. Pilot suddenly raises the aircraft nose to near vertical before dropping back to attack mode. Get ready for an assault on your senses with PUGACHEV’S COBRA, an intense Russian Imperial Stout. This rich, black beauty with a thick caramel head is bursting with aromas of chocolate, vanilla, oak, bourbon, licorice and dark fruits, while flavors of chocolate-covered plum, sweet malt, bourbon, and roasted coffee explode on your pallet. Three different dark roasted malts and rich maple syrup are combined in a truly unique brewing process to create complexity and depth. Once fermented, it’s then aged for eight months in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. This powerful concoction is designed to be enjoyed now with friends or cellared to perfection and savored in the years to come.
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As recommended by my friend Julio who once had it on tap about a year ago. Been looking high and low for this piece of treasure to finally be able to do a review. Time to suit up and lift off into the heights of amazing flavors. How will it do with the other great imperial stouts out there?

Upon opening the bottle, the aromas are very good. Definitely on par with some of the greats, maybe even better! Rich bourbon, vanilla, oak, sweet milk and dark chocolate, brownie batter, coconut, banana, hazelnuts, dulce de leche, crème brulee, coffee, mocha, maple, hints of dark fruits like raisins, apples and smokey wood. The flavors are very amazing. Heat of Bourbon flavor but low booziness, vanilla, bananas, coconut, dulce de leche caramel, raisins, Kahlua coffee, rum and very rich chocolate almost to the side of Black Tuesday but more focus on bourbon than chocolate yet still very strong with the chocolate. There are also flavors of flan, licorice, molasses, chocolate cake, chocolate syrup and whiskey. This one is very very good. The flavors are very rich and the bourbon flavor is amazing. Not the booziness but the actual oakyness and vanilla of it. No Joke, this beer was definitely near the top. A must get if you somehow are lucky to find it. I had to look online for this one unfortunately. Now next time it is one tap, that I will have to see. But you also have to realize, this has been aging FOR 2 YEARS!! so the much fresher version may not provide the strength and complexity. So get one now and save the other for later. Go get this beer!!

Samuel Smith’s Yorkshire Stingo

April 1, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon vanilla, chocolate oatmeal, English Strong Ale, Oak aged, oak casks, Samuel Smith’s, soi fong, Suì-Fēng, yorkshire squares, Yorkshire Stingo | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/5

Samuel Smith’s Yorkshire Stingo is a 9%ABV English Strong Ale aged in oak casks

Label:
Some of the oak casks at Samuel Smith’s date back more than a century with the individual oak staves being replaced by the Old Brewery coopers over the years. Gradually the casks soak in more & more of the character of the ale fermented in stone Yorkshire squares. Yorkshire Stingo is aged for at least a year, matured in these well-used oak casks in the brewery’s underground cellars deriving fruit, raisin, treacle toffee, Christmas pudding and slight oaky flavours, before being further naturally conditioned in bottle. Allow time for east to settle before opening then pour gently.
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This is probably considered England’s best strong ale in the world. It definitely showed it as I have never seen a barrel aged English beer at something as high as 9%ABV. The aromas are amazing. It is the very same English malt aroma but now with that bourbon, vanilla, caramel, oak, chocolate and coconut fragrance. Wow is what I would describe the scent of this beer. Other aromas of dark fruits like raisins, black and blue berries, biscuit bread, honey, apples and somewhat like barley wine. The flavors are of oak, vanilla, caramel, chocolate, strong marshmallow creme, slight coffee, slight coconut, slight flan, slight bourbon, apples, dark fruits like plums, black berries, blue berries, raisins, cookies and cream, sweet raisin and pecan bread pudding, cinnamon, flan, some what creme brulee, walnut and hazel nut creme. It is an over the top, exceptional beer. I think if it was found often, I would definitely pick it up over and over again. You can’t beat this as it goes in par with some of the best barrel aged beers out there. This beer along with organic chocolate, oatmeal stout and winter welcome are some of my favorites from this brewery along with Goblin King from Wychwood are my favorites from England. Brewdog I won’t include in the Great Britain mix as they are another Scottish story all together 😉

Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout 2012 by Cigar City Brewing

March 5, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged ancho chiles, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, cacao nibs, Chile beer, chocolate coffee, cigar city, Cigar City Brewing, Cinnamon, coffee chocolate, dark chocolate, Dark Lord de Muerte, Final Fantasy XII, Fran, Hun Hunahpu, Hunahpu, Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout 2012, Imperial Stout, Kahlua, Khalua, Madagascar Vanilla, Mayan Mythology, Mayans, Mayas, pasilla chiles | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout 2012 by Cigar City Brewing is an 11%ABV Imperial Stout Aged on cacao nibs, ancho and pasilla chiles, cinnamon and Madagascar Vanilla Beans. This was released in March 2012 so it is almost exactly 1 year of aging.

Label:
In Mayan mythology, Hun Hunahpu was the father of the Mayan hero twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque. Hun Hunahpu, along with his brother Vucub Hunahpu, was tricked by the Dark Lords of the underworld and slain. Hun Hunahpu’s corpse morphed into a cacao tree, his head becoming a cacao pod, which in typically awesome mythology fashion, spit upon the hand of a young maiden named Xiquic who promptly became pregnant with the hero twins. The twins would ultimately grow up to avenge their father and uncle and defeat the Dark Lords and ascend to the heavens to become the moon and sun

We brew Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout once a year and release it only at the brewery. We will continue to do so until the end of the cycle.
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Rated to be the 4th best Imperial Stout in the world. 100% world class. This version is aged almost exactly 1 year. I can only assume this is like a response to Dark Lord de Muerte from the Three Floyds as it is brewed with chiles also. Never the less, this is something special. Aromas immediately rush the nose several inches from this liquid of gods. Fragrances of Very strong Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, Khalua, Chocolate Abuelita, chile spices from the ancho and pasilla, some vanilla, coffee, strong bourbon, vanilla, flan, cinnamon, champurrado, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, piloncillo sugar cone, oak, cherries and alittle bit of coconut. The flavors are of smokey roasted pasilla and ancho chiles but without the heat, dark chocolate, Khalua, coffee, chocolate abuelita, mole, champurrado, cherry, raisins, prunes, molasses, vanilla, small amount of earthy bitterness, cinnamon sticks, ginger bread, alittle bit of dulce de leche, piloncillo sugar cone, tamarind, oak wood and maple syrup. Initially, the chile spices would take over but then as the beer got warmer, it let a massive amount sweet chocolate flavors pull through with vanilla and cinnamon dancing all over. A delicious beer that is truly world class. While it definitely surpasses a great amount of world beers, I believe it is really preference based. While this one is very sweet and has the spiciness to cancel out the over powered sweetness, many people will find this appealing over more “Diabetes in a bottle” types like Dark Lord, Black Tuesday, Grey Monday or Chocolate rain (some of my ultimate favorites). For me I like the extra sweetness in some beers, but this has so much flavor of my culture written all over, fragrance and taste alike. In terms of Chile beer Imperial Stouts, hands down, The best in the world Chile beer right next to the Dark Lord de Muerte.

§ucaba (Abacus) 2013 Limited Release by Firestone Walker

February 27, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Abacus, §ucaba, barley wine, Barleywine, Barrel-Aged Barley wine, best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, California Beers, Dulce de leche, Firestone Walker, FW, hop bitterness, malt flavors, World class, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

§ucaba (Abacus) 2013 Limited Release by Firestone Walker is a 12.5% ABV Barrel-Aged Barley wine. Considered by many to be the best barleywine in the world. I have never tried this beer and I almost didn’t grab if it wasn’t for the fact that Total Wine had one final box. I’ve seen it in downtown L.A though. It truly is limited unfortunately. So if you can get this one, get it.

Label:
Big boozy bourbon and American oak aromas combined with soft chocolate malty undertones. Complex malt flavors framed in oak, with hints of dark chocolate, vanilla, tobacco, coconut and just a touch of dark cherry. This is definitely a sipping beer, best served in a brandy snifter. This ale pairs well with dark chocolate and sturdy cheeses.

Note: Sucaba is the beer formerly known as Abacus until the Winter 2012 release.
O.G. 27 Plato
F.G. 4.7 Plato
I.B.U. 42 units
Yeast: British Ale (House)
Cases: 1500 produced
Color: 36SRM (Dark Ruby)
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Upon opening the beer, it some really nice and overwhelming fragrances. Reminiscent of some of the other barrel-aged beers I have had from FW in the past. This beer has strong aromas of bourbon and barley. Coconut, vanilla, oak, dark fruits like raisins and cherries, chocolate, coffee notes, baked bread, toffee, flan, dulce de leche caramel, bananas and marshmallow creme. The Flavors are of bourbon, coconut, chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, flan, Leche Nestle (Mexican Sweetened Condensed milk), barley, lemon, toffee, raisin and pecan bread pudding, cherries, bananas, small underlying earthy hop bitterness, light citrus, honey, maple, barrel oak, campfire smores with the marshmallow, graham cracker and dark chocolate and butterscotch. The after taste stays with you for awhile so you can really take your time and enjoy it as you go. My god, I am not sure if there is any barley wine out there like this one. I have never had a barrel-Aged barley wine but this is extremely amazing. Definitely should not be passed up if you can find it. Barley wines are not my biggest favorite of styles but this is really delicious and a must get for sure.

Cherry Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout by Goose Island Beer Co.

January 18, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, cherries, Cherry Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout, Chocolate, chocolate coffee, coffee chocolate, dipped cherries, FLCL, Fooly Cooly, Goose Island, goose island beer, Haruko, Haruko Haruhara, Imperial Stout, Rye Whiskey, Whiskey | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/5

Cherry Rye Bourbon County Brand Stout by Goose Island Beer Co. is a 13.7% ABV Imperial Stout aged in rye whiskey barrels with whole cherries

Label:
Our brewers love experimenting with their beer almost as much as they love drinking it. This unique blend, aged in rye whiskey barrels with loads of whole Michigan cherries, is the one they are proud to finally let you share with your friends at home – or not. After your first sip, you’ll agree, this beer has some real stones.
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I once did a review under the Original 2008 Bourbon County Stout (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/31/bourbon-county-brand-stout-vintage-2008-by-goose-island/) and I found it to be freaking amazing. So in 2012 they decided to release this variant which was super hard to find. I already know this is gonna be good and I highly recommended it you find it. Now on to the Review. The aroma of this amazing beer is of coconut, vanilla, whiskey, oak, flan, dulce de leche caramel, walnuts, rich dark and milk chocolate, cherry, cranberries, coffee, mocha, . The flavors are like a cherry pie or tart cherry cobbler with caramel made with chocolate dipped cherries, cinnamon, rich dark, milk and sweet chocolate syrup, pecans, raisins, coconut, vanilla, flan, oak, bourbon, coffee, whipped cream, Mexican vanilla crème filled sweet bread with vanilla cherry and chocolate pudding. The aftertaste leaves a sweet chocolate cherry trail with coconut, bourbon, vanilla and leche nestle (Mexican Sweetened Condensed Milk). No alcohol trace and no Boozy burn off of this one. I almost wanted to chew this beer as it truly is a dessert in a bottle. It is an extremely delicious world class beer. I know that Goose Island is an AB-InBev bought craft brewery but politics about beer aside, this is a new guy that stepped into the ranks of best beers in the world. I think I just liked this beer so much because it was so close to Grey Monday and Chocolate Rain it was not even funny. Just like the pictures above with Haruko, It will blow your mind!!!

Bourbon Barrel Aged 4 Calling Birds by The Bruery

January 11, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged 4 Calling Birds, Bananas, Belgian Dark Ale, Belgian Strong Ale, Belgium, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, Bruery, cherries, coconut and banana, dark fruits, Fruit Cake, gingerbread, Raisins, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged 4 Calling Birds by The Bruery is a 14.8%ABV Belgian Dark Ale Brewed with spices and aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
The fourth verse of our “Twelve Beers of Christmas” saga incorporates ginger-like spice into a rich and robust dark ale. Happy Holidays!
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This is a barrel aged version of the original 4 calling birds. Haven’t tried the original but this one is still awesome, maybe even better :P. The aromas immediately are of strong vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, coconut and banana crème pie, bourbon, raisins, cherries, holiday fruit cake, some chocolate and coffee cake. The flavors are pretty complex with a major solidification of Bourbon, Vanilla, matured Banana, dulce de leche caramel, coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread, fruitcake with dark fruits like plums raisins, cherries, a bit of apple, hazelnuts, pecans, dark chocolate and and some citrus. The aftertaste is a lot like banana and raisins with some good bourbon and vanilla still there. The alcohol is well hidden, yet do take your time with this. While it is very delicious, it is past the 10%ABV and quite hefty in alcohol. An 8oz serving would suffice and save some for later :). Good flavor is hard to come by. Some beers meet or exceed expectations. For me, this one exceeded them quite a bit. If you can find it…fuck yeah!!!

Grey Monday by The Bruery

December 31, 2012 by cloudx30 tagged Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, Chocolate Nirvana, Chocolate Rain, Chocolate Raine, Dragon ball, Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Z, Fusion, Gogeta, Goku, Grey Monday, Hazelnut Nectar, Hong Meiling, Imperial Stout, Izayoi Sakuya, molecular gastronomy, roasted hazelnuts, Super Saiyan, The Bruery, Vegeta, Vegito, world beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5 * Final Review of 2012*

Grey Monday by The Bruery is an 18.6% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Hazelnuts. Essentially, this is the Black Tuesday Variant but made with Hazelnuts. Black Tuesday along with it’s cousin, Chocolate Rain are one of my most favorite Chocolate beers ever. They may not be the highest in the world but they certainly rated higher in my opinion. While St. Bernardus abt 12 and Trois Pistoles covers my most favorite Belgian/ World beers ever. Mainly this cover covers my ultimate chocolate beer sweet tooth. This is like a very special chocolate liquid of the gods.

Label:
Originally brewed for a molecular gastronomy dinner at Beachwood BBQ, this decadent version of Black Tuesday is brewed with Oregon grown, roasted hazelnuts.
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The ABV on the label said 18.6% however, at the tasting rooms in The Bruery they have it at 19.2%. Chocolate Rain was about that much, maybe more. This year’s Black Tuesday is in the 19 something as well. Anyways, on to the review 🙂
Grey Monday is hard to get. You have to basically go out of your way to get it so for those that want to seek this on out, be ready to climb over a good amount of obstacles. If your lucky, you may find it online though. So immediately after you open the beer is an massive explosion of extremely rich chocolate, vanilla, bourbon, cherries, plums, pecans, hazelnut, and caramel. Like literally, you can smell how sweet and nutty this is. Aromas are just that rich. Just like I said about Chocolate Rain. Basically Diabetes in a bottle. Also a note to the wise. Take your time and do not consume in one sitting. 1 small 8 ounce glass or less is best. Nectar of gods should be taken lightly and savored to the best ability and saved some for later or for friends. I decided to drink this on Monday 31^st as being the last beer of 2012 I review :). So I figure why not. Upon trying it I was taken to the boozy world chocolate nirvana. Immediately I was surrounded by flavors of very strong milk, dark, sweet chocolate, chocolate covered raisins and tart cherries, rich mocha, rich dulce de leche caramel, rich sweetened condensed milk (Mexican Lechera), flan with pecans, almonds, walnuts, Bourbon, vanilla, raisins, port chocolate, Chambord Raspberry in chocolate cake, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate cheesecake with maybe some macadamia nuts and well lots of burnt sweet caramelized sugars and cocoa. There is also an underlying banana nut bread with cherry and chocolate, vanilla and caramel hazelnut in the aftertaste. This beer is pretty deep and it takes grasp of the spirit. You would probably be done in one sip. The Oak Bourbon is present but no burn, just a small level of intensity for this super giant megaton fusion super saiyan of an ABV beer. Certainly one of the greats and nothing less. World Class in its own special way. The Grey Monday, The Black Tuesday and The Chocolate Rain. I love Trois Pistoles and I love St. Bernardus abt 12, but just as Chocolate Rain has taken me above and beyond this has taken me to another level of rich hazelnut, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, dark fruits and oak bourbon vanilla heaven.

Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy by Ale Smith brewing

December 31, 2012 by cloudx30 tagged Alesmith, best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, Great American Beer Festival 2008, King of Fighters, Kula Diamond | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy by Ale Smith brewing is a 10% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels. This is a recent 2012 release.

Label:
Great American Beer Festival 2008 “Small Brewing Company of the Year”
This Barrel-Aged version of our Scotch-Style Ale is matured in premium bourbons barrels for at least one year to add layers of complexity to its rich, malty flavor profile. Notes of Vanilla, Oak, and Bourbon from the Barrels combine with the beer’s profile of caramel and toffee to make an utterly unique beer we think you’ll love. Enjoy it now or let it mature in the bottle for years to come. Serve in a goblet at 50-55 degrees.
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Wee Heavy beers are pretty good. I once enjoyed a Sam Adams Wee Heavy which probably does not come close to the awesomeness of this on. I still have to try the original of this but I figured when I saw my chance to get this one I take it. The fragrance coming of the beer in the glass is pretty sweet. Bourbon, Vanilla, plums, caramel, licorice, molasses, butterscotch and possibly some chocolate as well. The flavors are freaking phenomenal. So the first thing I notice is there is really not a lot of burning alcohol for being a “Heavy” ABV beer. The flavors flow of Bourbon, vanilla, caramel, toffee, Blueberry Cheesecake, flan, Dulce de leche and Sweetened Condensed Milk (Leche Nestle), raisins, butterscotch, blackberries, boysenberries, sugar coconut crème pudding, Chocolate Mousse, oak, walnuts and like a Jaggermeister Licorice sweetness. I remember some of the very good notes reminiscent of the original wee heavy I have tried which was a Sam Adams version but this is amplified to over 9000 times in complexity and flavor. I exaggerate ofcourse but when it comes to some of the best beers in the world, this is certainly one of them and I can’t explain it enough. It is just delicious. Now… I am sure this will pair great with a nice dessert 😛

Bourbon Barrel Aged Black Cauldron by Grand Teton Brewing

December 31, 2012 by cloudx30 tagged bakers chocolate, Black Cauldron, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged Black Cauldron, bourbon barrels, FFX, Final Fantasy X, grand teton, hop bitterness, Lulu, Lulu FFX, Russian Imperial Stout, Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels, Yuna, Yuna FFX | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Black Cauldron by Grand Teton Brewing is a 8% ABV Russian Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

This is part of a rare release of brewers’ series beers that may be available soon. The beer has no particular description noted. I have tried the regular version of this beer in the past and have considered it a favorite. With a release of a barrel aged version, it brings forth something even more magical, mystical, dark and well, just delicious.

The aromas of this beer come off as a semi sweet semi bitter bakers chocolate, coffee, mocha, vanilla, some bourbon, oak, dark fruits and berries. The taste reminds me of the Oak Aged Chocolate Yeti with bourbon. It is pretty good. Like a Dark and semi sweet/bitter bakers chocolate and coffee cake dipped in a little bit of bourbon with notes of wooden oak barrel, caramel, vanilla, blackberries, raisins, cherries, sweet bread, minor earthy hop bitterness with disappears into some coconut like notes but just a little bit. It is quite smooth and rich going down. It is not super boozy but you get some nice notes of the oak and the bourbon. It is not like the Old Rasputin Barrel Aged but it is still a great barrel aged stout. Remembering how good the original was for me, this is a great step up in complexity and a must find.

Angry Beast By Clown Shoes

November 5, 2012 by cloudx30 tagged Angry Beast, Blaecorn Unidragon, Bourbon Barrel Aged, clown shoes, Clown Shoes Brewing, Clown Shows Angry Beast, Halibel, Neliel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, Tia Halibel, Tia Harribel, Vampire Slayer | 2 Comments

Rating: 4.75/5

Angry Beast by Clown Shows Brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout that is a blend of Blaecorn Unidragon aged in Bourbon Barrels and Vampire Slayer Imperial Stout .

Label:

Hoppy Feet guy extinguished evil via a sharp stake through an undead chest. Now, Blaecorn Unidragon, mad as hell, has expelled another blood sucker from Earth. No, we do not like Vampires, but we love Vampire Slayer, which was blended with bourbon barrel aged Blaecorn Unidragon to beget Angry Beast.

Been meaning to find this beer for a very long time. Was not the easiest of task but I finally got a chance to try it out. Angry Beast has aromas of roasted coffee, chocolate, little bit of bourbon vanilla, some coconut and caramel. The flavors of the Angry Beast are of smooth dark chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha, rich vanilla and caramel, some oak, smokey notes, and a little bit of coconut and bourbon but enough to not burn. It is kind of weird because at this ABV I would think there should be some boozy burn feel but in actuality it is just smooth and pretty drinkable. Hides the alcohol very well. While I was expecting something super strong, I was actually quite impressed how they can get some of the Bourbon and oak in there without being to hot of a beer on the palate. It is also quite balanced which will make it appealing to those that have not been exposed to Barrel Aged Beers. While it may not pack a punch right to the front, it will get you in the end just give it a while >:P. I am glad I found this beer, if you ever find it, try it out 🙂