Bruers’ Barrel-Aged Zesty Mounds by The Bruery

Rating: 6/6

Bruers’ Barrel-Aged Zesty Mounds by The Bruery is a 13.6% ABV Belgian Dark Ale brewed with Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Coconut and orange zest aged in bourbon barrels.

#BABEERDAY
Barrel-aged Beer Day is our staff’s day for premiering flavors that cannot be achieved outside of the art of the blend or by any one beer. This staff-winning blend, created by Jennifer Anderson, Conner Coghill, Adam Funderberg, Jeff Scott, Andrew Stretch and Patrick Traster, showcases mounds of candy bar-esque flavors, with vanilla, coconut, cacao nibs from TCHO and orange zest folded into an exclusive fusion of some of our darkest, richest and most malt-forward bourbon barrel-aged beers.

Orangey chocolate almond joys!!

2017 Stronger Than Fiction by Bottle Logic

Rating: 7/7

2017 Stronger Than Fiction by Bottle Logic is a 13% ABV American Strong Ale double barrel aged in Rum and Bourbon Barrels with Coconut & Coffee

Label:

==Introduction==

Luck seems to have a way of finding me when it comes to these super hard to find beers. I would of never really had this beer if it wasn’t for the one slight chance I stumbled upon one of the local stores and had it hidden away. Well, you know how I do with these things. If I can find something crazy, I will bring it to the forefront of the website and tell you what it is all about. Granted, the last 2 times I brought Bottle Logic to the site, while still skeptical, I was proven wrong in the uniqueness these beers brings. It is my only hope that this is a true and delicious as the claims show it to be.

Aromas:
Rich mocha, marshmallow, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, piña colada, fruit cake, complex chocolate, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, Kahlua Liqueur, raspberry chambord, Raspberry Gansito, Danish pasrty, cookie dough ice cream, Irish coffee, super complex chocolates, mixed nutes, trail mix, banana notes, maple syrup, mocha and tropical fruit.

Flavors:
Rich Almond Joy, Rocky road ice cream, marshmallow smores, French Vanilla, Dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, yohoo, Belgian chocolate, German chocolate, Mexican chocolate, Raspberry Gansito, Raspberry chambord, honey, butterscotch, dark fruits raisins, black berries, figs, figgy pudding, plums, mocha, fancy coffee, tiramasu, frappuccino, piña colada, rum, bourbon, oak, fruit cake, Kahlua coffee liqueur, jamoca ice cream, hazelnut nectar, nutella, pecan pie, walnut cake, sweetened condensed milk, Irish coffee, Danish cream, toffee, 3 leche cake, dragon fruit, passion fruit hints, mango hidden, cookie dough ice cream, double espresso, steamed milk, maple syrup, rye bread, bananas, molasses, piloncillo sugar cone, burnt sugar hints and rock candy.

Aftertaste:
Finishes damn smooth vanilla, oak, toffee, marshmallows, piña colada, sweetened condensed milk, 3 leche cake, tiramasu, chocolate turtles, bourbon, rum, mocha and dulce de leche caramel. Alcohol? GTFO!! Non existent even for as strong as it is. Clear crimson body, Smooth, creamy, velvety and tantalizing mouthfeel along with a drinkability only similar to that of cold brew coffee.

Overall:
Damn it!!! Why do these bottles from Bottle Logic have to be bucket listers?! There’s a part of me that doesn’t want to buy into the hype but something immediately snapped back when I had this one. Granted, the double barrel aging I’m sure had something to do with it along with the perfect complementary combination of coconut for the Rum and Coffee for the bourbon that carried this one into the oblivion. Not only was the alcohol not there, it made me wonder if this was beer I was drinking or some fancy Khalua and Piña Colada Rum bliss wit bourbon. Crazy stuff they are making and well as I hate to admit, I really hope I can bring more of these bad boys to the site in the future. As for you, the reader, you know this one is blessed, so don’t skip this, embrace it!

Anime Corner:
YoRHa No.2 Type B/ 2B/ 2E “Executioner” from Nier: Automata was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to pair not only with the colors of the beer but also the name of the beer. Stronger than fiction essentially is irony since you have a character that is not only not a human being in the series but an android who is essentially a super strong bad ass!

Mélange No. 9 by The Bruery Terreux

Rating: 5.25/6

Mélange No. 9 by The Bruery Terreux is a 7.8% ABV Wild Ale Hybrid of 83% Sour Ale Aged in Oak Barrels, 17% Ale aged in bourbon barrels with ginger and coconut added.

Label:
TROPICAL – OAKY – ISLAND

This sour ale was the winner of our Hoarders Society blending competition. A combination of our sour blonde, Sour in the Rye and White Oak Sap along with ginger and coconut.

Description:
Mélange #9 was created by your peers at a special blending competition held in November 2013 for our Hoarders Society members at the time. Each team was given access to a slew of our barrel aged beers and were allowed to bring in pretty much any ingredient of their own to add to the mix. The winning blend is a sour ale, using both our sour blonde ale and Sour in the Rye, with a hint of sweetness from White Oak Sap. Coconut and fresh ginger was added to the blend just a few days before packaging, generating a super fresh, tropical spice.

==Introduction==

Mélange #9 was finally released to the Reserve society at the Bruery. One the Melange series that I have not tried before. Many of the Melange series has always been about Cuvees of dark strong beers and very few about sours. Like I still have to try Melange #1. Yet, since I didn’t know when they would release Mélange #9 again, I figure I bring it to the site before the getting was good. This one is actually a sour. With the addition of the base being White Oak and Sour in the Rye makes for a beer that could be quite intriguing. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit apricots, peaches, sour apples, lavender hibiscus, rose hips, ginger bread, oranges, lime, wine grapes, dragon fruit, rye bread, pineapple, lemon peel, oak, Chardonnay, bourbon hints, vanilla, and coconut notes.

Flavors:
Ginger bread, ginger cookies, ginger ale, funky grapes, toasted coconut, oranges, tangerines, passion fruit, dragon fruit, rye bread, cucumber, tart pineapple, lemon peel, oak, chardonnay, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, Mexican Cocada coconut candy, sweetened condensed milk hints, white wine, lactic funk wine grapes, farmhouse notes, hibiscus, lavender, rose hips, honey, stone fruit apricots, peaches and sour apples.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with floral notes, coconut, lemon peel, ginger bread, vanilla, oak, honey, oranges, hibiscus, and wine grapes. No Alcohol in the taste, clear golden body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A slight smidge above perfect and this is definitely due to the fact that it is not a pure sour. The ginger, coconut and bourbon definitely cut the sour aspects by a lot and bring about a nice balance and complexity that makes this one more enjoyable with every sip. I think many that do not like sours will find this one appealing. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Misty/Kasumi from Pokemon was brought to this beer to pair with the colors of the label and represent some of the tropics of the beer. While her thing is water and water type pokemon, I think she fit just right. Also, the fact that this is the first time I use her in a Bruery beer as well.

Sources:
https://images6.alphacoders.com/821/821146.png
http://www.fanpark.cc/data/0001/04/14892134587295.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Pokémon.full.1154124.jpg

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Coconut Porter by Avery Brewing

Rating: 6/6

Botanicals & Barrels Series: Coconut Porter by Avery Brewing is a 10.4% ABV Imperial Porter with Coconut aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Copious quantities of coconut coupled with time basking in bourbon barrels complement the chocolaty and sumptuous nature of this delectable porter.

==Introduction==

I obtained this one at Mr. K’s Liquor which is in front of the Bruery. This series has been something I have been considering trying and bringing them to the site as I find them. Since the time I tried the Vanilla Bourbon stout, the ones I see come out have been amazing. This one aged in bourbon with coconut seems to be like its gonna be amazing, or at least from what others are saying about this beer. Avery has always made some freaking awesome beers so I would not expect anything less. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, vanilla, oak, cookies, cherries, bourbon, Danish cream, Baley’s Irish cream, toasted coconut, banana cream pie, macaroons, cocada coconut Mexican candy, crème brulee, dark fruits and cookie dough.

Flavors:
Coconut and banana cream pie, almond joy, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, vanilla, oak, bourbon, grilled bananas, whipped cream, toasted coconut, cookie dough ice cream, cookies and cream, chocolate chip cookies, Cocada Coconut Mexican candy, Macaroons, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, rye bread, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherry cake, fruit cake, crème brulee, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, Danish cream, Baley’s Irish cream, hints of piña colada, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and 3 leches chocolate cake.

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

Overall:
Damn exceptional! With many of the coconut bourbon stouts I have had before, many have certain things more forward than others. This one mixes the best part of the bourbon with the banana and marshmallow oak parts that come from the process and the coconut creating something that is similar to coconut cream pie. The mix is absolutely amazing. Avery has always made great beers and this is nothing short of a must have. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Midori from Space Patrol Luluco was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the colors of the label but also how the use coconut can be seen as tropical. So with the summer starting, it is time for the bathing suit weather. School and work is out for some people and usually time to have fun in the sun. So with Midori, it fit in my mind.

Sources:
http://doujin-doujin.com/wp-content/gallery/daw_savetheworld24/0Image00001.jpg
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/05/14/21/02/02/56879902_p0.png
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/04/16/02/02/28/56370879_p0.png
https://ii.yuki.la/a/99/27cfeac958dfda53a7e689381456b41e371c17117dfbb0f966862596b4b7799a.png

2016 Hoarders Cuvee by The Bruery Terreux

Rating: 5.5/6

2016 Hoarders Cuvee by The Bruery Terreux is a 12% Sour Blonde ale aged in oak barrels with Honey, and Wheatwine ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Coconut, Hibiscus, Rose Hips and White Pepper

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

This Cuvee is as dynamic as the members it competed against to gain top bragging rights in the Hoarders Cuvee blending tournament and be produced by Bruery Terreux in 2016. Designed by Hoarders Society members Kyle Landig, Paul Moore, Cory Townsend and Andy Williams, this Cuvee begins with one of the cornerstones of Bruery Terreux – our oak-aged sour blonde ale. We then premier a new ingredient in a packaged product for the first time in our company’s history: honey. Together with coconut, these two catapult the rich, barrel character found in our bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine ale, which is the second beer in the blend. Hibiscus, rose hips and white pepper balance the oaky, sweet and sour profile, adding a degree of spice and herbal characteristics to the dynamic blend.

==Introduction==

I obtained this beer from the Bruery Reserve as they were having a sale and happened to allow a Hoarders beer to be purchased. While I did try the Bruery’s version of the Cuvee, now I bring forth the Terreux version of the 2016 Cuvee. Amazingly, the Cuvee from the Bruery was far up there as being a one of the best I have ever had. I hope I can say the same for this one. Let’s take a look and see if it is worth seeking out, cheers!

Aromas:
Floral notes of hibiscus, rose notes, lavender, honey, tropical fruit, stone fruit, mild toasted coconut, wine grapes, biscuit bread, vanilla, toasted coconut, chocolate hints and bourbon oak.

Flavors:
Rich oak, Lemon peel, hibiscus, roses, floral hops, lavender, honey, Bourbon, toasted coconut, stone fruit peach apricot, lychee, biscuit bread, vanilla, cocada Mexican coconut candy notes, sweetened condensed milk, strawberries, kiwi, cherries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, lychee fruit, cane sugar, sour apples, wine grapes, Chardonnay, raspberries, white chocolate notes, oranges, tangerine hints, super lactic funk and white wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with floral notes, coconut, lemon peel, vanilla, oak, honey, oranges, hibiscus, strawberries and biscuit bread. No Alcohol in the taste, clear rose and golden body, crisp, refreshing and effervecent mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
While it is exceptional and very delicious, I think the balance is the only thing that keeps it from being at the highest it could be. It is mainly tart and the sweetness is here and there but you can still tell there is a lot of complexity in this one. While I feel many who love sours will definitely enjoy this one, if you mainly love sours for its extreme sourness, then this one is an awesome one for you.

Anime Corner:
Aeris Gainsborough from Final Fantasy VII was chosen in this beer since I have yet to review a beer with Aeris but mainly since her colors fit well with the colors and ingredients of the beer. This beer is full of flowers and Aeris is a flower girl so I figure it was the most perfect pairing especially a beer such as this one, the golden cuvee.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/Z7iVoXe.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/76/d5/a1/76d5a1334bf885972c8dec13d4511e32.jpg
http://img2.yiihuu.com/860X860/upimg/courses/2016/04/19/1-1461034043-529785.jpg?auto=h
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/images/6/6c04/6c049fbc/100568/aerith-gainsborough.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/93/b9/b7/93b9b7af4b08eab0082ac228b2d2a8b2.jpg

Coconut Victory At Sea by Ballast Point

15440465_10103803517382640_6340659360454904972_oRating: 5.75/6

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

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

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

==Introduction==
15403639_10103803517287830_7670806324279494733_o
It has been years since I had Victory at Sea. It was such an awesome brew when I was looking for it so long ago that it was a rarity. Before the times that it became more readily available, it was one of the best beers for Ballast Point right next to Sea Monster in my opinion. Today, you can find these more readily available and recently, they have been experimenting with ingredients. I know there is a peppermint version of this one which I should bring forth in a future review but I could definitely not pass up on this one especially since it was a coconut beer. With that being said, let’s see if this one out does it’s original. Cheers!

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

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

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

Overall:
Definitely an exceptional brew! I love how is smells and taste. There is so much awesome coconut and chocolate and coffee cake that it is crazy. I think I liked this one more than the original but then again I really like coconut beer. While it is not in par with some of the best coconut beers I have ever had, it definitely surpasses even the most perfect ones that usually stop at the 5/5 rating for me. Even with no barrel aging, taking the base beer and amping it up to the next level really did for me. I highly recommend this one especially if you are a coconut beer lover!
15493430_10103803517302800_5739574969142764755_o
Anime Corner:
Nami from One Piece was the right choice for this pairing as she is literally a pirate. I wanted to go with the theme and something tropical. Since Coconut is in the mix with a beer about pirates, why not make it tropical. Speaking of tropical, Nami does have some of the colors on her of nice toasted coconut and coffee cake and to some extent, the colors of the label. I really enjoyed bringing her into this pairing.
15440492_10103803517297810_8344525397432603776_o
Sources:
http://wallpaperflix.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/nami-wallpaper-1.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pL6WXuH61WY/VxX_0R_dL2I/AAAAAAABy2U/aPk24HEQw0g/s0/018.jpg?imgmax=2000
http://kizaru89.deviantart.com/art/One-Piece-Burning-Blood-Nami-609367201
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/kCrNQc4w9qaoqzjM7ySELbgXXW6DIw3l522KVifM07op9VLLqZwhGi3tO3KdToHk.jpeg?w=1600&v=wSURMzV9B94QzBdy_P5zSk1uPOHDuxsd8fkK8zymiFg%3D

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery

 

15271865_538639712998802_6685030592850345833_oRating: 7/7

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

Label:
Bear The Palm

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

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

==Introduction==
15252677_538639666332140_2834696412721063666_o
After 2 years, the Bruery has finally re-released the one of their most awesome beers, the Mash and Coconut. I remember this one distinctively since the first time they released it, it was not up to their standards. Essentially, they had issues with the beer that could only be served at their tap room and not be bottled. Fast forward to now, and they not only released a tap room of it, but also in bottle form. I bring this one back as I remember it being a supreme coconut joy. Now since it has been released to all societies, let’s take a look at it from a bottle perspective, cheers!

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

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

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

Overall:
A bucket lister that finally was released in bottles. With the separation of Sour and regular brews, a much more controlled environment was what made this possible for the Bruery. Thankfully it was finally released and this time, Preservation Society would see this one coming. So if you signed up for Quarter 4 2016, you will get this one along with Black Tuesday and another brew. This is a must get and if you can get several, do cellar them. This is insane, I highly recommend this one!
15259677_538639662998807_3267183794057221693_o
Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers and Knives Chau from Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World were used in this pairing as the original since I wanted to compare them to the name MASH & COCONUT. Ramona always has a hammer ready to MASH up her opponents and Knives is a smooth ninja representing the coconut flavors and the overall smoothness of the beer. This is way too easy to drink. They are both hot but super damn deadly. Some of the colors of the label also pair with the artwork. Scott is there for the other complex flavors of the beer as well as the other characters from the series.
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Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1250828
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
http://data.whicdn.com/images/89284118/large.png

 

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

14883451_10103680012362690_9120622711387752481_oRating: 7/7

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

Label:
Coconut complements the roasted chocolate flavor of Dragon ‘s Milk, coaxing flavors that are reminiscent of lazy summer days. Rum barrels add a tropical character and a distinctive twist on tradition.
14918891_10103680012372670_6848465178321749021_o
==Introduction==

The time has come again, with another variant of the awesome Dragon’s Milk. I have tried this one several times and done many reviews as well. Today, I bring you the Coconut and Rum version of the brew. The only other dragon I have tried was the raspberry one and since I loved that one so much, it inspired me to make a raspberry and tropical fruit version of that same beer. So basically, the Dragon’s Milk and I go way back and the love for this beer keeps going. So with that being said, let’s take a look at the white whale of a dragon we have this time around. Cheers!
14889929_10103680012222970_7508145398960794378_o
Aromas:
Mocha, Coffee Cake, Rich Almond Joy Coconut Chocolate, rum, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, capirotada raisin bread pudding with coconut, coconut and pecan pie, Danish cookies, hazelnut nectar, coconut chocolate truffles, fruit cake piña colada notes, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, choco flan, lactose milk sugar, crème brulee, toffee, dark fruit raisins, cherries, figs, currants, blackberries, fudge chocolate cake, rocky road ice cream and chocolate milk shake.

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

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

Overall:
A definite bucket lister. As much as I love the original or even the raspberry one which I believe are some of the best beers and a staple in my list of favorite bourbon barrel stouts, this coconut rum is simply another level altogether. There has been a trend for me with beer variants and it seems that coconut beers have been definitely out of this world. I definitely loved this one so much, I had to get several and I highly recommend you do the same and try the coconut deliciousness.
14859693_10103680012227960_2124150597511788379_o
Anime Corner:
Sash Lilac from Freedom Planet and original character art by Tofu93 were chosen to be the dragons that go with this beer. As I mentioned before, the beer is a rarity like, like a white whale. Although, this one is a white dragon instead. So the under the sea part in the picture as Sash rises from the water represents that part. The other pics just complement as they are both dragons.
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Sources:
http://img12.deviantart.net/6be7/i/2015/006/5/5/freedom_planet___lilac_vs_spade_by_banzatou-d8ctqec.png
http://img12.deviantart.net/018e/i/2016/051/a/d/sash_lilac_by_dansyron-d9shnt6.png
https://i.imgur.com/bRycwv9.png
http://orig05.deviantart.net/7b18/f/2014/219/a/e/fan_art_____sash_lilac_by_articaartes-d7u31gf.png
http://orig04.deviantart.net/1768/f/2014/207/c/8/rouken_ych_by_tofu93-d7se6ee.jpg

Wee Heavy Coconuts by The Bruery

14317415_10103549287296770_8257949364608329598_n 14322607_10103549287661040_3547984226687490280_n 14212045_10103549288524310_440019086605376842_nRating: 7/7

Wee Heavy Coconuts by The Bruery is a 13.5 % ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy brewed with Cinnamon and Coconut.

Description:
We have a penchant for playing with nuts and bourbon barrel-aged beers around here, and this plays right into our wheelhouse. Wee Heavy Coconuts is a special draft-only release featuring a rich, malt-forward wee heavy ale aged in bourbon barrels. After 12 months of barrel-aging, we added cinnamon and a massive amount of coconut to it. (Perhaps too much coconut?) It’s quite the treat. In fact, if Scotland was a tropical island, it might just taste like this.

==Introduction==
Released on tap only to the Reserve Society, this brew is the Chronology 12 of the Wee Heavy but aged in coconut. When I heard of this release, I had to find a way to bring it to the website. Having known that coconut brews from the Bruery in bottles has no been a release since Arrrggghhh! and Cacaonut, I know it is risky to release coconut beers. However, because they made a Wee Heavy which is a style that I really enjoy and then infusing it with coconut, then I knew for sure that this was going to be something amazing. So here it is, for a limited time, the Wee Heavy Chronology 12 in coconuts, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Coconut, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, fruit cake, marshmallows, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, hazelnut, allspice, blueberry cheesecake, molasses, anise, licorice hints, mint, mocha, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, Mexican coconut candy, macaroons, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, smoked peat, oak, bourbon, Scotch, Whiskey, vanilla, grilled bananas, clove spice, creamy flan and peach cobbler.

Flavors:
Rich cocada Mexican coconut candy, macaroons, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, smoked peat, oak, bourbon, Scotch, Whiskey, vanilla, grilled bananas, clove spice, creamy flan, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, fruit cake, marshmallows, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, hazelnut, allspice, blueberry cheesecake, molasses, anise, licorice hints, mint, mocha, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, chocolate covered stone fruit peaches, pecan pie, peach cobbler, rye bread and Chocolate turtle truffles.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Rich Chocolate Coconut covered dark fruits, scotch, toffee, dulce de leche carame, bananas, hazelnut nectar and Coconut candy. No alcohol in the taste as the alcohol seems to have been toned down in the taste despite the ABV. Dark brown full body, smooth creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bucket lister that should have been bottled. Like Mash and Coconuts before, this brew is something that should have seen a bottle release despite the risk of infection due to souring. Either way, some beers find a way and a wee heavy in coconuts was just the next evolution is some of the best awesome brews in the world. I don’t know if they will still have this one since the publication of this review but I hope it does have a way for you to think about trying this one if they do release it again one day.

Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim VS. The World was used in this pairing to go with the colors of the original Chronology 12 Wee Heavy but also since I used her in a coconut Bruery beer with Knives Chau. This time, I wanted her to take center stage has Scott not only has a heavy relationship with her which represents the sweet and ABV high aspect of the beer but the coconuts and complexity are Ramona’s traits of being a complex and emotionally heavy character.
14362484_10103549288239880_7540760652592593919_o

Sources:
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/ab26e-ramona_flowers___scott_pilgrim_vol__5_by_montanaferrin-d66lh98.png
http://t06.deviantart.net/2ky_i7DV-eB9_ycqzMowhiKkDhk=/fit-in/700×350/filters:fixed_height(100,100):origin()/pre01/bdcc/th/pre/i/2012/005/9/c/ramona_flowers_by_laurelwind-d4leakd.png
http://pre02.deviantart.net/6c7e/th/pre/i/2009/363/2/e/scott_pilgrim_xxxmas_by_maddoxfanx.png

 

Here Comes Mango by Belching Beaver

13925366_493653840830723_7110143882662544190_n 14045986_493653830830724_8687207944802754812_nRating: 5/5

Here Comes Mango by Belching Beaver is a 6.6% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with mango and pineapple.

Label:
Back story here is we hired a local brewery to contract brew for us. We were having a real problem producing enough of the Great Lei coconut pineapple IPA so we started making it there. We had planned to phase it out for the winter. I let out distributors know. In a brewers meeting it came up that the orders had stopped. Troy said, ‘but i have 160 barrels at the contract brew house!” I said, ‘aren’t you looking at the order sheets?’ Troy said, ‘no I never look at those! My bad’ That’s our Troy. He came up with the idea of turning them into a mango IPA, the beer took off! Here comes Mango!

==Introduction==

Since the released of the Great Lei, I thought that would be the best tropical IPA for the series at Belching Beaver. Ever since I found that they combined the pineapple one with Mango I definitely had to bring it here to the site. Belching Beaver has been making some very delicious beers. This version seems very promising. So without further ado, on with the review, cheers!

Aromas:
Strawberry, mango, pineapple, prickly pear, honey dew melon, papaya, guava, kiwi, stone fruit peaches, lychee, lemon candy, grapefruit, piney, floral, grassy and mild herbal hops, starburst candy, banana, biscuit bread and bubble gum hints.

Flavors:
Tropical fruit Mango, pineapple, papaya, guava, kiwi, strawberries, honey dew melon, passion fruit, dragon fruit, prickly pears, biscuit bread, cherries, grapefruit, piney, floral, grassy and mild herbal hops, starburst candy, lemon candy, tangerine gummies, stone fruit peach, apricot, lychee, sweetened condensed milk, cocada Mexican coconut candy hints, bananas, bubble gum hints, and green tea ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with mango, pineapple, kiwi, strawberry, tropical fruits, stone fruits, biscuit bread, floral and piney notes, wheat notes and dank herbal hops. No alcohol in the taste. Clear golden body, smooth, crisp, clean and refreshing mouth feel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
I definitely thought this was a perfect beer. Blending the Great Lei, an already loved beer with the pineapple, and now with mango, it takes the beer to an awesome level of deliciousness. It is just as fruity if not fruitier than the Great Lei. Overall though, such a refreshing beer for the summer and one I highly recommend. Belching Beaver makes some of the best beers out there.

Anime Corner:
Annie Leonhardt from Attack on Titan was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the military clothing the beaver wears with a character that wears similar and in this case, Annie. Especially since her blonde hair goes well with the color of the beer and its ingredients of Mango and Pineapple.

Sources:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RXadKzwfMkc/UbNbTCbj91I/AAAAAAABHBo/Jse2fiaIcEc/w900-h900/36234305.jpg
https://k40.kn3.net/taringa/2/5/2/0/4/4/44/loli-kisser/937.jpg?3146
http://cdn2.wallpapersok.com/uploads/picture/103/18103/art-mizore-devushka-annie.jpg?width=2657&height=1753&crop=true

La Muerta EC12, Vanilla EC12 & Coconut EC12 by Freetail brewing (Triple Review Special)

13320842_10103297382061880_4389833072106254560_o13335536_10103297381892220_9107489069963913196_n13320530_10103297381547910_1533657400775212196_o==Introduction==
A very special gift from my friend Aaron Mendiola, owner of BeerMetalDude.com, this is the 3 Elijah Craig 12 variants of Free Tail’s La Muerta! Which to me is like the Dark Lord of Texas in a way that Black Tuesday is the Dark Lord of California, or so I would think. Anyways, the variants are all aged in Elijah Craig 12-year-old bourbon and 2 of them are made with coconut and vanilla. The reason I wanted to do a triple review is to see how each one varies in the flavors not just to the EC12 by its self but even to the original La Muerta. Let’s take a look, Cheers!

Label (All 3):
A growing South Texas tradition, La Muerta is brewed each year for Día de los Muertos in honor of our departed friends and family. A big, lush Imperial Stout, La Muerta is full of roast, smoke and chocolate flavors from an array of specialty malts that go into this garnetblack ale. Perfect for sharing with your closest compadres, La Muerta will age wonderfully for years to come – we recommend enjoying one now and save some for the future, if you can. ¡Salud!

EC12
==============
13320788_10103297382560880_3091643696116186860_o

La Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig 12 Bourbon Barrels.

Aromas:
Rocky road ice cream, vanilla, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, pecan pie, cinnamon, anise, fruit cake, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Mexican chocolate abuelita, German chocolate, campfire smoke, cherry cordials, coconut notes, rye bread, coffee notes and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Mexican chocolate abuelita, German Chocolate, rocky road ice cream, molasses, tobacco, anise, bourbon, oak, vanilla, marshmallows, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, coconut notes, rye bread, coffee note, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, pecan pie, piloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar, flan, sweetened condensed milk, rock candy, candi sugar, ginger bread, fruit cake, chocolate flan, earthy notes, pretzel notes, bananas, clovey notes, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, campfire smoke, cherry cordials, port wine and dark chocolate cherry cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with earthy notes, rocky road ice cream, caramel, dark fruit, toffee, smokey notes,cinnamon and choco fruit cake finish. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

EC12 W/ Vanilla
==============
13339650_10103297381767470_7542428857273314347_n

La Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig 12 Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla.

Aromas:
The vanilla comes through more on this one but still similar aromas to the original with some other notes like banana and more chocolate.

Flavors:
Similar to the original but the Vanilla accentuates flavors into something additional. More flan, more crème brulee, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, more dulce de leche, more chocolate, almond milk, chocolate mousse and more rocky road ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich vanilla notes, flan, crème brulee, earthy notes, rocky road ice cream, Jericalla, more caramel, dark fruit, toffee, smokey notes,cinnamon and choco fruit cake finish. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth, syrupy and velvety mouth feel and an easy to moderate drinkability.

EC12 W/Coconut
===================
13344588_10103297381503000_3998769685468666503_n
La Muerta EC12 by Freetail brewing is a 10.01% ABV Imperial Stout blend with 33% Ale and 67% Aged in Elijah Craig Bourbon 12 Barrels with Coconut.

Aromas:
Even richer coconut, flavor, macaroons, almond joy chocolate, rye, more flan notes, bit more dark fruits, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie and Cocada Mexican coconut candy along with the aromas of the original EC12.

Flavors:
Similar to the original but coconut seems to amplify the flavors way higher. Super Almond joy coconut chocolate note, rye bread, oakier, flan, chocolate coconut pie, hazelnut nectar, Irish cream, Danish cream, richer sweetened condensed milk, raspberry chambord hints, cocada Mexican coconut candy and macaroons.

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

==================
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Overall:
While all the beers are supremely exceptional showcasing more complex flavors than the others, it was hard to choose which one I loved the most. Well, more than the original EC12 as that one was the base which was way better than the Original La Muerta ofcourse. However, the EC12 I really loved the most was the coconut one. While vanilla is my thing, the coconut one just blew everything out of the water for me and definitely the best coconut beer I’ve ever had so far. These variants should be highly sought out and I can never thank my friend Aaron Mendiola enough for these as he really went out of his way to get me something very special. Please support his site www.BeerMetalDude.com to see some more awesome beer reviews.

Anime Corner:
Original characters and Dead Master from Black★Rock Shooter were used to pair with each of the labels. I tried to get as close as possible to the labels using the different colored skeletons but also representing either the reaper, death, dead lady and grimm overall.

Sources:
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/toregazou/imgs/0/8/081b6e19.jpg
http://img.diyidan.net/post/2015/10/25/WfsRJg74djmEkEW8.jpg!webmedium
http://i.imgur.com/UXQV0l4.jpg
https://41.media.tumblr.com/560d2231a3934e6bcc4809a377578b4f/tumblr_o0hkk7hI331rd89lxo1_1280.png
http://i.imgur.com/K7JZPgP.png
https://k61.kn3.net/taringa/2/3/8/8/5/2/70/agente867/1CE.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/fA8bJVj.jpg
13323650_10103297382565870_7590665301203433800_oRating: 6/6 EC12
Rating: 6.25/7 EC12 Vanilla
Rating: 6.35/7 EC12 Coconut

Coconut Jones Dog by Pipeworks brewing

13179362_10103263284418830_245344451106369474_n

Rating: 6/6

Coconut Jones Dog by Pipeworks brewing is an 8.5% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Coconut, Cocoa Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
Stout with cacao, vanilla bean, natural flavors added
Jones Dog is a pup who knows what’s up. The addition of coconut to our milk stout with cacao nib and vanilla, makes this brew a real treat. No man’s best friend is an island, but this brew might make you feel like cold chillin’ on one. If you fetch a bottle, lap it up!

==Introduction==
13235414_10103263285341980_965221482533050384_o
Obtained this one from thebottleshop.net. This beer label intrigued me and being a coconut stout and from Pipeworks, I definitely wanted to get it. They make great beer and I haven’t had anything yet that I did not find very delicious and exceptional from them. Since Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues, Mash & Coconut and Cacaonut from the Bruery, there hasn’t been a coconut beer that has really exceeded my expectations on the coconut beer category. So another coconut stout is definitely something I want to take a shot at. Let’s take a look at this one. Cheers!

Aromas:
Toasted coconut, macaroons, vanilla, caramel, toffee, Mexican Cocada candy, Danish cream, Jamoca ice cream, rocky road ice cream, Bailey’s Irish cream, Khalua liqueur notes, coffee cake, marshmallows, smores chocolate, dark fruits like raisins, currants, boysenberries, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, rich almond joy chocolate, cookie dough and pecan pie.

Flavors:
Rich toasted coconut, Mexican cocada coconut candy, coconut macaroons, vanilla, caramel, toffee, coffee cake, marshmallows, smores chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, dark fruits like raisins, currants, boysenberries, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, rich almond joy chocolate, cookie dough, Danish cream, Jamoca ice cream, rocky road ice cream, Bailey’s Irish cream, Khalua liqueur notes, Cherry cordial chocolates, Tropical fruit notes of Piña Colada, dragon fruit, passion fruit, bananas, pecan pie, hazelnuts, chocolate mousse, coconut flan and 3 leches chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Rich Coffee cake, Toasted coconut, vanilla, Hazelnut, dark fruits especially the dark cherry and raspberries, rocky road ice cream, mocha, cookie dough and tropical hints linger. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black darkness of inner coconut space body, velvety, silky, smooth and chewy mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Trying to compare some of the best coconut beers I have ever had, this one is definitely higher on the dark fruit and cherry list. The complexity in comparison to some of the other coconut beers I have had is definitely different and while I love each one for their different, I love this one for the fruitiness. I would definitely like to try this one again and would recommend those that can get this one should definitely try it.
13233000_10103263288924800_7061622954806189809_n
Anime Corner:
Krystal Fox from Nintendo’s StarFox, Lavenda by Tofu93 and original art by priincessu were used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the dog at the beach. While these characters are K-9s, although different than the normal pooch, I think the colors along with the dog help accentuate the scene of tropical beer here.

Sources:
http://images.akamai.steamusercontent.com/ugc/577873252885734997/FD9C470C32A1A77DC4AD5E7AD408C67F5B2770E4/
https://pfimg.playfire.com/_proxy/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic1.e926.net%2Fdata%2Fsample%2F5f%2F7a%2F5f7ac370d4c365866bd5bc2eb1d3f34d.jpg&hmac=4e09e7b3b577b6429be59c6cbe5e0ff8
https://static1.e621.net/data/b1/54/b154690d2490f6745f772756840d2100.jpg

2015 Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues

10694419_10102980509936160_2278781354773125392_oRating: 5.75/6

2015 Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues brewing is a 6.3% Irish Porter aged on desiccated coconut and dark chocolate.

Label:
Pass. Dash. Hit.
Coconut Chocolate Choconut
Pack It In. Pack it out.

==Introduction==

The previous incarnation of this beer was collaboration with Shamrock brewing. Oskar Blues has always released some really fine beers like the Dale’s Pale Ale, Ten Fidy, Mama Yella Pils and Old Chub. With the release of a coconut beer, people went ballistic. Luckily for the masses, Oskar Blues was able to provide enough for the crazy demand. So you too can enjoy this one as it is most likely sold where they sell Oskar Blues beers. Cheers!

Aromas:
Super Rich, Almond Joy, Coconut, Rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, toasted coconut macaroons, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Cocada Mexican Coconut candy, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, coconut milk, almond milk, Danish cream, anise, molasses, lactose, Irish cream, tootsie roll candies and chocolate cake.

Flavors:
Ridiculously toasted coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, coconut milk, almond milk, Danish cream, Cocada Mexican Coconut candy, rocky road ice cream, pecan pie, rich almond joy chocolate, crème brulee hints, dark fruit cherries, marzipan, hazelnut nectar, coconut bread, rye bread, anise, molasses, lactose and chocolate coconut milk shake.

Aftertaste:
Rich toasted coconut candy remains, rich dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel, pecan pie, hazelnut and cherry hints. No alcohol in the taste, deep dark body, creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Quite possibly, the best Coconut porter ever! So much chocolate coconut and coffee goodness that is very apparent all around from the rich aromas to the flavors. They really outshined themselves. It is no wonder why a lot of their beers seem to hit my exceptional meter often. They really do brew with magic. I highly recommend this one and it is a must try!

Anime Corner:
Rukia Kuchiki from Bleach was used in this pairing as the show relates to death but also how Rukia is like an equivalent to the Soul Reaper White Princess. Colors of the coconut represent her and the dark chocolate is the darkness of death. So swift and luscious! Ichigo Kurosaki is in there too just cuz he’s a bad ass. Essentially, these are some of their ultimate forms and what a better way to pair with the ultimate coconut porter!

Sources:
http://76.72.168.19/images/2013-01-26-554320.jpeg

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery

12038911_10102848154896720_5657527898995745653_o 11952836_10102848156189130_5767722802608509845_oRating: 5.25/5

Preservation Series: Arrrggghhh! by The Bruery is a 7.7% ABV Imperial Pilsner brewed with Rice and Coconut.

Label:
“Shiver me Timbers!”

Arrrggghhh! Be refreshin’ly tropical and surprisn’ly hoppy. Perfected fer a sunny day on the high seas, but just as well for a landlubeber like ye. This lager is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor. The ideal storin’ and servin’ temperature be 40°F (4°C). Best Served in a tulip, wine glass, or pewter drinking tankard.Yo Ho!

==Introduction==

Preservation society has released a special grog that be essentially a way t’ deal with t’ current El Niño climate we be currently facin’ here in California. T’ grog be essentially a clean and cool grog t’ sail that last part o’ summer. Essentially, this golden liquid be t’ booty you be claimin’ on t’ long voyage through t’ grog world. It says best enough fresh so lets see if this be worthy o’ settin’ t’ flags up and sailin’ to t’ closest Bruery shop.

Aromas:
Coconut, banana hints, tropical notes, peppercorn, pilsner malt, biscuit bread, rice cake, citrus, grapefruit, herbal and floral hops, green tea ice cream, bread pudding hints, sweetended condensed milk, flan hints and stone fruit hints.

Flavors:
Vanilla, oak, toffee, coconut, toasted coconut, cocada coconut candy, mochi balls, redbean ice cream, green tea ice cream, rum hints, clean pilsner malt, biscuit bread, coconut bread, pineapple, banana notes, crème brulee hints, flan hints, rice cake, rice pudding, tapioca, tres leches, sweetened condensed milk, white raisin bread pudding, tropical fruits of dragon fruit, passion fruit, mango, guava, papaya, strawberry, kiwi, grapefruit, lemon grass, piney, herbal and floral hops, hints of peppercorn, stone fruit peaches and apricot.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a dry yet sweet and hoppy aftertaste hitting a lot of pleasing notes from the coconut, rice, vanilla, tropical fruits, stone fruits, sweetened rice and coconut pastries, herbal and floral hops. No alcohol in the taste, golden light body, very easy to drink and smooth, crisp, creamy, refreshing and clean mouthfeel. Overall, pleasant!

Overall:
10/10, 100/100, best beer, best beer! (JonTron homage)
Damn! If this did not come out of Davey Jones locker I don’t know what to say. The sweetness is damn on par with delicious coconut rice pudding. This is one hell of a beer. I really don’t know how they were able to incorporate the rice and coconut in there. I can find myself drinking this every single day without stop. Sounds crazy right? Well, this beer is so damn light and so damn drinkable that its dangerous cuz its so damn delicious!

Anime Corner:
Rikku from the Final Fantasy X and X-2 series was used in this pairing to pair as the pirate of gold. The golden liquid inside the bottle that is mainly the treasure overall. Rikku pairs her colors and complements the beer color, the label colors but mainly the whole theme of this being a pirate beer overall. Also, with the beach setting, it is like she is out in a tropical island somewhere which showcases the beers tropical flavors.

Sources:
http://www.1zoom.ru/big2/729/248642-svetik.jpg
http://img04.deviantart.net/f00e/i/2012/298/3/d/rikku_by_newdevaccount-d5iy25c.jpg

The Patsy by Barley Forge Brewing

11894447_10102772111024250_6859009890843647411_oRating: 5/5

The Patsy by Barley Forge Brewing is a 6.6% ABV American Stout brewed with Coconut and Rye.

Label:
No Horsing around – your quest for the holy grail of ryes has ended, brave traveler. Set down that heavy load and clap hands for the dense tropical flavor of this unusual stout, brewed with flaked rye, chocolate rye, several specialty malts, and a hefty amount of coconut. This medium-bodied beer offers rye spiciness balanced by sweet coconut with hints of dark chocolate and espresso. The perfect pair for a hearty winter meal, or to reward you after a journey through the Kingdom of Mercia.

==Introduction==

I first had this beer at the Bruery Copperversary and since then I was blown away. My friend Oscar originally told me about how good this beer was and I was like damn! Forward several months later and here we are. Total Wine, with the selection on deck, was enough for me to get this beer and bring it for a review. I wish they sold it in bigger bottles but this is great as I think I will need to go ahead and find more if there are still some at the store. This beer is pretty mind blowing. Let me break it down to let you know how it is, cheers!

Aromas:
Buttery caramel, vanilla, Rich toasted coconut notes, fancy coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut nectar, coffee cake, espresso, Java, Kahlua liqueur, caramel, toffee, maple syrup, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberry hints, steamed milk, rye bread, molasses, anise, almond joy chocolate and Danish, crème brulee hints and marshmallow smores.

Flavors:
Espresso, Java, Kahlua liqueur, rich roasted coconut, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut nectar, coffee cake, vanilla, caramel, toffee, maple syrup, steamed milk, rye bread, molasses, anise, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberry hints, butterscotch, flan notes, cinnamon, Irish cream, Danish, crème brulee hints, marshmallow smores, earthy notes and almond joy chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Rich coffee, marshmallow, rich coconut, caramel, earthy notes and maple syrup. No alcohol in the taste, Deep dark full body, silky, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Such a damn perfect stout! One of the best coconut beers out there. I definitely think on par or above with the Belching Beaver Coconut Milk stout. This beer reminds me of a morning fancy coffee at a really fancy coffee house. It is pretty crazy how delicious this little bottle is. I need to find more and I highly recommend it once you are able to find this one. For being Barley Forges first beer I review, this is an ultimate winner!

Anime Corner:
Julia, Vicious and Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the meaning of the name which is the Patsy or the person that is taken advantage of. I’ll be honest, while it sounds like you are taken advantage for really wanting this beer so much, there is nothing wrong this one. If you the audience are the person at the bar, then meeting up the wrong crowd could be a bad thing. Lucky for you, this is the safest crowd and one of the most bad ass ones at that to hang out for sure. They make sure you don’t become an actual patsy.

Sources:
http://static.minitokyo.net/downloads/37/15/595787.jpg?1244386258

Mash & Coconut by The Bruery

10379732_10102242082226210_4337238402157701393_oRating: 6.2/5

Mash & Coconut by The Bruery is a 12.8% ABV World Class English Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels with coconut.

Label (Proposed):
TO HAVE…

An English-style classic with rich flavors added by aging in bourbon barrels with tropical coconut.

==Introduction==

So this beer was supposed to be released for the Reserve Society but due to time restraints and quality control, this one was not released in bottles this year. Hopefully next year will be different. Same thing happened with So Happens It’s Tuesday as well. So when I found out they had this on tap and for growler fill, it didn’t take long for me to bring one home. When I went for a taster set, I had several greats from the Bruery but this one just blew everything away. That’s when I realized, I gotta get a growler. The original MASH was phenomenal, but this certainly took the cake and I had to review it so people can go try this at the Bruery before it is gone but also in hopes that a future release will be available for everyone. This is on tap for the public too, no membership needed so that works out great! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich macaroon and cocada coconut candy forward, rich toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, banana split ice cream, hazelnuts, almonds, almond joy candy, pecan pie, milk chocolate, sweetened condensed milk (Leche Nestle), custard, rocky road ice cream, macadamia nuts, flan, coconut cream pie, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, brownies, rye bread, plantains, mocha, clove spice and toffee.

Flavors:
Rich Macaroon and Almond joy chocolate flavors forward, rich toasted coconut, milk chocolate, rich bananas, flan, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, dark cherries, capirotada raisin bread pudding, custard, cinnamon, rocky road ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, banana split, brownies, chocolate cake, rye bread, mocha, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, dark chocolate, crème brulee, clove spice, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, maple, butterscotch, plantains, toffee, brown sugar, Danish cream and oatmeal raisin cookies.

Aftertaste:
Toasted Coconut, bananas, almond joy, milkchocolate, marshmallow, dark fruit, butterscotch and macaroons linger. No alcohol in the taste, way too easy to drink, silky and creamy mouthfeel and a dark brown full body.

Overall:
Possibly the best toasted coconut/banana nut/almond joy beer ever! This is liquid coconut macaroon heaven. This beer is super toasted coconut forward. The only sad part was that I do not think this will be coming out in bottles anytime soon but if you are ever at the Bruery this month, see if you can have a reserve society member get you a growler fill. They really need to bottle this one as this one was the one that stood out when I tasted it the other day. This beer is way too good for it’s own good. At the height of the 12.8-13%ABV, it is way too drinkable that you would be in big trouble finishing a growler in one sitting. Savor this if you can find it as it won’t last…

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

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1250828

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

1378490_10101457429661240_425507774_n

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.

 

Forgotten Island by Cigar City brewing

1374901_10101457321912170_1203501524_nRating: 6/5

Forgotten Island by Cigar City brewing is a 15% ABV Belgian Quadruple aged in Jamaican Rum Barrels

Label: 
This dark complex style of ale originated in the Trappist monasteries of Belgium. It was sipped by monks during fasting and winter months. Forgotten Island adds a tropical twist via aging in Jamaican rum barrels. The barrel lends notes of vanilla, molasses, orange peel, cocoa, brown sugar, nutmeg, hazelnut, apricot and peach. This plethora of flavors and aromas from the rum barrel intermingles with banana, clove, cinnamon,fig, plum and brown sugar aromatics and flavors from the quadruple, creating a contemplative ale perfect for introspective moments far from the cares of the world beyond. 
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Released exclusively for the Cigar City Catador club. A hard to get beer unless you know some one who is in the club or can trade/buy from someone online. This is the first time I try a rum barrel aged quad. I have tried a good number of Bourbon barrel ones but never a rum one. Good luck in getting this one

Aromas are very sweet. Velvety dark fruits, currants, plums, raisins, chocolate notes, dulce de leche caramel, figs, raisin bread pudding, oak, rum, rich coconut, vanilla, pecans, bananas, cloves, cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, blackberry marmalade, brown sugar, cinnamon, hazelnut, oranges, apricot, peach, piña colada, tropical fruits like papaya, melon, dragon fruit and other fruit and spices

The flavors are freaking amazing! This would be a great response to the Bruery’s Cacaonut, except it is rum and quad and has more dark fruits than Cacaonut. Yet each is freaking amazing and I can tell you this beer has already exceeded my expectations once again. Rich plums, rich curtants, figs, cotton candy, raisin bread pudding, pecans, peaches and cream, apricot, boysenberry marmalade, toasted coconut, oranges, dragon fruit, melon, papaya, piña colada, nutmeg, hazelnut, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, oak, blackberries, bananas, clove spice, cherries, molasses and other complex flavors. Diabetes in a bottle!

The aftertaste leaves with very nice caramel, dark fruit and tropical fruit flavors with oak rum and spices lingering. Good Luck finding the alcohol. Even at 15% ABV, it is one dangerously smooth and tempting Siren. Does not drink like a 15% ABV, holy crap. Take it easy with this one. Even if you want more, save some for later and share.

Overall, it is exceptionally wonderful and delicious. Think of a Quad that is tropical with rum flavors, coconut and piña colada. Let me put this in comparison with Cacaonut from the Bruery. Cacaonut from the Bruery is liquid Almond Joy with tropical fruits. This is a Dark Fruit Coconut Rum Piña Colada raisin bread pudding. Combining the fact that it is barrel aged, chocolate, quad and exotic is what make this one qualify for the top score which I give to either my best favorite beers or beers that have met the eligibility to be my favorites, even if rare. If I could, I would probably drink this everyday. That would be good, but would not be good for me, but would definitely be good. Cigar City is definitely the East Coast’s Bruery. As far as recommendation, HELL YES!! If you happen to find this parable paradise of an ale, set sail!! You will not regret this one.

Annual Barrel Series Batch No. 3 Rumpkin by Avery Brewing

1395365_10101453179433730_175450723_nRating: 5.75/5 *New title for an exceeding expectations pumpkin ale

Annual Barrel Series Batch No. 3 Rumpkin by Avery Brewing is an 18.53% ABV Imperial Pumpkin Ale brewed with pumpkin and spices aged in Rum Barrels. The strongest ABV pumpkin ale I have tried.

Label: 
We wondered what would happen if a monstrous pumpkin ale, plump full of spicy gourdiness, were aged in fine fresh rum barrels to add suggestions of delicate oak and candied molasses. Rumpkin is what happened!
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A limited released that can be found online now or in some limited places. I found this at Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights California, but hell if I know if they have anymore. May or may not be the best pumpkin beer ever surpassing all the awesome barrel aged beers I have ever tried, all I know though is this one is Strong!! When beer starts to get into the 18% ABV or hell even past 13% ABV which is like the point of no return, then trying the beer alittle bit at a time to savor it is when it matters. This beer has no carbonation, nada!!

Aromas upon opening this one, there some very nice fragrances of pumpkin, ginger bread, bananas, cloves, cinnamon, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, cinnamon, coconut notes, macaroons, rum, pumpkin seeds, nutmeg, sweet yams in maple, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone in coconut icecream, molasses, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bourbon notes, brown sugar and some dark fruits. The aromas are rich as in I don’t have to look super hard to guess an aroma. This is very good.

Flavors are very rich like the aromas. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin flesh and yams in cinnamon and maple, pecan pie, rum, ginger bread, old bananas, cloves, cinnamon, coconut cream pie, flan, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, waffle cone, chocolate notes, raisins, plums, pineapple, cherries, coconut icecream, pumpkin pie ice cream and other spices

Aftertaste stays consistent with the pumpkin, caramel, brown sugar, banana, pecan pie and rum. The alcohol has a major presence here. Not detracting from the already super complex awesomeness but it definitely is meant to be sipped, and enjoyed a little at a time.

Overall, this is probably one of the best, if not, the best pumpkin beer I have ever had. It has pretty much everything all the best pumpkin beers I have ever had have. Everything from the nose to taste is very consistent. The only thing about this one though, it is a major kicker. It warms you up like no other. I have had many 18% ABV caliber beers and even some don’t manage to warm you up this good. Not at all in a harsh way, but in a very very pleasant way. This is the type of pumpkin beer you would best enjoy right at the end of the fall nearing the winter when it starts to get a lot colder. If you can still find it, I would recommend you get this but if you cannot get it, there are other super awesome pumpkin beers out there. All it takes is a look

Cacaonut by The Bruery

1377129_10101439803763680_855321709_n 1374855_10101439804107990_2042561779_n 1377960_10101439804058090_1123003662_n 1378644_10101439803988230_1993895123_nRating: 6/5*

Cacaonut by The Bruery is a 15.6% ABV American Strong Ale brewed with Coconut, Vanilla Beans & Cacao Nibs and aged in Oak Barrels.

Label: 
Nuttin’ Better
A Unique blend of several of our barrel aged ales with toasted coconut, cacao nibs and vanilla beans. Cacaonut is bursting with flavors of spice, cocoa, rich toffee, and tropical notes. 

The unique blend was inspired by a favorite dessert of ours, the chocolate dipped coconut macaroon. Cacaonut is suitable for aging for up to three years. Best stored and cellared around 55F (13C) in a dark place.
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Secret recipe huh? Well, I did some research and found the blends may be White Oak Sap, Barrel Aged 5 Golden Rings and some of the Anniversary Ales. The Bruery has made some of the most exceedingly unexpected delicious barrel aged dessert beers I have ever tried. After trying several ones like Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain, White Chocolate, Melange 3 and others, I was not expecting such beers to exceed my expectations this much. In fact, this is the reason I started to give greater than 5/5 ratings for beers that I feel truly deserve that “exceeding expectations” category. Not to mention the fact that anything that taste closest to chocolate is where I go bonkers over the beer. Just to be fair though, I will try to brake this complex monster as best I can. All I will say now before I start is this…. Almond Joy Chocolate while drinking blended tropical juices

Aromas are of rich milk chocolate, dark chocolate, super rich vanilla, rich coconut, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk (Lechera), coconut milk, vanilla, bourbon, oak, flan, crème brulee, tootsie roll, almond joy chocolate, brown sugar, maple, dark fruits, plums, raisins, boozy sweet aromas, port wine, pecans, hazelnut and much more.

The Flavors are epic chocolate coconut bliss. I’m done!! That’s its. Just kidding. There a very distinct rich toasted coconut flavor coming from this. This is super close to what the had in mind of chocolate macaroons. Dark Chocolate, maple syrup, vanilla, flan, bourbon, plums raisins, almond joy chocolate, toffee, brown sugar, pecans, hazelnut and walnuts. There are also tropical flavors here as well of hidden citrus, coriander, pineapple, caramelized mango, chocolate bananas, dragon fruit, dark cherries, blue berries and clove spice. 

The aftertaste is very toasty coconut milk, vanilla, chocolate, bourbon and almost like a Queso Fresco quezadilla toasted note taste. Pretty interesting but I really think it is the bready coconut in action here. A definite sipper, boozy but nothing to get in the way of ultimate complexity. 

*Overall, this one is exquisitely delicious and amazing. These are the beers I wish I could drink everyday. It is beers like these that defy what beers are and what beers truly be!! (At least the dessert ones). I am fanatic of chocolate beers and pairing the coconut here gives it some very complex flavors to the already complex barrel aged blend selection as I mentioned above. I apologize if this sounds too snobby, it is not my intention. But I would like for you to take this with a grain of salt and if you get a chance to try it (and you love coconut, chocolate and tropical fruits) you will most likely love it. Unless you do not like complexity and strength in beers then you best off with something lighter. Also, as with all “Diabetes in a bottle” beers, drink and enjoy in small amounts please!!

Yoko Littner For the Win!!

Capricho Oscuro Batch 5 by Cigar City Brewing

1383159_10101428773358700_1514628837_nRating: 6/5

Capricho Oscuro Batch 5 by Cigar City Brewing is a ??% ABV World Class American Strong Ale

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (Ratebeer.com)
This beer is a blend of at least five different beers, including Hot Blooded Foreign Stout, Puppy’s Breath Robust Porter, and several vintages of Warmer Winter Winter Warmer. These beers were aged in some cognac and brandy barrels before being blended together.
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Hard to come by, looked and looked for this piece of barrel aged treasure all over. Hard to get. Impossibly rare? Maybe, not as much as other but still it was hard to come by. This beer seems very good but very evil and mysterious. Without an ABV to gauge it, I am pretty much lost in the dark as to how strong this one is that it is kind of scary. Perfect art pairing with Majora from Legend of Zelda Majora’s Mask. Anyway, if you manage to find this one, choose wisely.

Aromas are of rich dark fruits like raisins, prunes, figs, dates, dark cherries, raspberries, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, toasted hazelnuts, pecans, coconuts, vanilla, cognac, brandy, notes of Hunnapu like the spiciness of it, caramel flan, chocolate cake, dessert wine, port wine, rocky road ice cream, almond joy and maple

The flavors are of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, brandy, cognac, dark cherries, raisins, figs, prunes, toasted coconut, hazelnuts, pecan pie, flan, port wine, rocky road ice cream notes, almond joy notes, caramel, vanilla, toffee, raspberries, maple, molasses, anise, slight smokiness, leather, tobacco, bourbon, Cordial Cherries and chocolate covered raspberries

The aftertaste is pretty complex leaving trails of sweet caramel, chocolate, oak, brandy, cognac, dark fruits and a bit of port wine. This beer is a definite sipper. The alcohol is noticeable but very pleasant and warming. The alcohol only brings the rich flavors above and it is nothing harsh. 

Overall this is an amazingly delicious beer, exceeding exceptions. I cannot guess the ABV from the taste which is scary but also good that it comes in a small bottle to sample. Definitely like some of the best beers in the world. Close to Melange 3, close to Black Tuesday, Grey Monday and even some of the other Bruery anniversary ales. What can I say about CCB, other than it is “The Bruery of the East Coast” making some of the best beers in the world possible like many champions. If you can find this, definitely get it.

Lips of Faith series Coconut Curry Hefeweizen by New Belgium

1240347_10101372958018090_1866690177_nRating: 4.3/5

Lips of Faith series Coconut Curry Hefeweizen by New Belgium is an 8% ABV Hefeweizen brewed with coconut, herbs and spices

Label: 
The list of spices in this coconut curry hefeweizen is almost as long as the list of awards bestowed on home brewer, Remin Bonnart. Together we brewed up a traditional German-style wheat beer whose fruity estersand spicy phenols pair perfectly with the spicy and fruity character of curry spices. Pour yourself a plateful.
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So here is the fall release of the the Lips of faith series. A coconut curry hefeweizen. Indeed a unique sort of beer that probably has not been done before. I have had other coconut beers and the curry beer Indra Kunindra from Ballast point. Very good indeed. This brings forth something different though, let us see where this goes

Aromas are very unique and very different. Citrus, curry, toasted coconut, oak, campfire, spicy chiles, cinnamon coriander, bananas, cloves, walnuts, chicken and gravy, biscuit bread, herbs, spices, floral burnt incense, citrus and lime.

The flavors are definitely like curry, rich toasted coconut, marshmallow, coriander, cumin, cayanne pepper, citrus, lime, cinnamon, tangerine, banana, clove, pecans, biscuit bread, caramel, chicken and gravy hints, ginger bread, flowers, burning incense, barbeque sauce hints, spices of India and mango.

Aftertaste is almost floral, bready, lemon and spicy. It is quite the easy sipper. Definitely take your time with this one. It is very odd and different. 

Overall I am amazed as to how different this beer is. I have had a curry beer before which was more chocolate and coffee curry https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/indra-kunindra-by-ballast-point/. This one is taking a lighter style like the heffeweizen and doing something very different things. Very good beer for sure but very unique and different. May be off putting to some. A beer that taste like a fancy Indian dish?? unheard of.. LMAO!!! Speaking of which, wonder how well it would fare with a nice curry dish. Could we reach the utmost highest levels of Nirvana? Possibly, if not, this definitely fits as one of the more exotic beer pairings of taste, art and experience, ciyarsa !!! 

Cho-tokkyu (The Cider “Super Express/Bullet Train”) by Crispin Cider Company

582061_10101370715537040_1152586743_nRating: 4.8/5 *Cider Rating

Cho-tokkyu or Choutokkyu (The Cider “Super Express/Bullet Train”) Artisanal Reserve by Crispin Cider Company is a 6.5% ABV Cider Fermented in Sake yeast and organic rice syrup.

Label: 
Naturally fermented with authentic Sake yeast using a premium blend of fresh pressed apple juice, not from concentrate, with no added malt, spirit, or grape alcohol. A racy, high-speed cider that remains crisp and well balanced. Cloudy and straw colored with an exotic polished complexity. Cho-tokkyu is clean, vibrant with an authentic dry sake finish and a distinctive apple backbone. Cho-tokkyu Artisanal Reserve cloudy hard cider is unfiltered and uses racked apple wine smoothed with pure organic, gluten free, rice syrup. No added colorants, sorbate or benzoate preservatives. Best served cool to cold. As with all our Artisanal Reserves, give a full bottoms-up tilt and swirl to disperse unfiltered apple-wine sediment evenly.
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Next in the line of sought after ciders I have tried. Many of them awesome, like the ones that use Irish Stout and Trappist yeast and even the Whiskey barrel aged ones. Simply phenomenal and delicious. Yes it may be made by Coors, but Ciders tend to be on a league of their own. This one is made with Sake yeast. I have tried many sake before I am familiar with the taste and the smell. Also, this beer unlike many ciders I have seen is actually more clearer white than yellow. Almost a Lemonade kind of color,

The aromas are of sake for sure, rice, apples, vanilla notes, sugar dough, and hints of coconut. Not much to the aromas but these little aromas a pretty dead on.

The sake notes in the flavor definitely shine as well as the bit of milky rice and vanilla notes. The cider has flavors of apples, slight earthy bitterness, melons, small hints of coconut but extremely subtle, chia seed juice, citrus hints, cinnamon, tapioca pudding, sweet bread and honey.

The aftertaste is pretty dry leaving only a little bit of the apple, rice and milky coconut aftertaste. Not much alcohol to talk about either but it definitely goes down smooth and is quite refreshing

Overall it is a very good cider. Maybe not as complex as the other ones but this one started getting a lot better as it warmed up. Some more notes of like doughy red bean ice cream, tapioca and milky coconut started to come out which made it very enjoyable. Hell, even some horchata notes in there too  . Definitely a different cider for sure.

Robert & Ryan / Rip Current / Stone R&R Coconut IPA

76035_10101316762155050_928126366_n 46375_10101316761037290_1434459790_n 1004846_10101316760233900_1743591119_nRating: 3.8/5

Robert & Ryan / Rip Current / Stone R&R Coconut IPA Collaboration is a 7.7% ABV India Pale Ale brewed and flavored with coconut

Label: 
This collaboration beer is a celebration of the homebrewing spirit and an example of counter-intuitive thoughts coalescing beautifully into something exceptional. Case in point is the seamless marrying of toasted coconut and a hop bill brimming with tropical fruit notes. Longtime homebrewers Robert Masterson and Ryan Reschan teamed up to enter this beer in our annual American Homebrewers Association-sanctioned brewing competition and, though it was the first beer they’d ever brewed together, they sailed past the competition like a tropical ocean breeze on a pleasure cruise bound for India. After winning, the duo reached out to their friend, highly decorated homebrewer and 2011 AHA Ninkasi Award winner Paul Sangster of the newly opened Rip Current Brewing Company, to assist in dialing in the recipe. Together with Sangster’s skilled partner Guy Shobe and Stone Brewmaster Mitch Steele, Masterson and Reschan present fellow craft beer enthusiasts with a most delicious and original style of IPA. Open, enjoy, rest, relax and repeat as needed.

“On the nose, you get lots of tropical fruit—mango, passion fruit, pineapple—with some sweet orange and stone fruit from the hops along with toasty coconut sweetness.” Ryan Reschan /I Winning Homebrewer 1 love the tropical spin that Robert and Ryan added to an already great IPA recipe.” Mitch Steele II Brewmaster, Stone Brewing Co. “The true lest of a beer like this is the balance between the fruity hop and the coconut flavors and, with this one, you feel like you’re drinking a tropical drink on the beach.”

Paul Sangster // Co-Founder/Brewer, Rip Current Brewing Co.
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Aromas of this beer are a very nice mix tropical and hoppy. Mango, grapefruit, kiwi, dragonfruit, apricot, pineapple, grassy, floral and piney hops and some coconut notes

The flavors are very tropical and hoppy as well. The break down is more tropical than hoppy though. Leading in with some prickly pear, mango, citrus, pineapple, grapefruit, hints of toasted coconut, piney and floral hops.

The after taste leaves hoppy and tropical as well but instead of more tropical in the end, it fades out with citrus and grass hop goodness with minor coconut hints. 

This beer is pretty good but it is somewhat fair in terms of finding the coconut. While it is hinted, I think I got more coconut as I drank more but the coconut is consumed by the hops. Not a bad thing at all as I really like tropical and hoppy IPAs but in terms of coconut it is only hinted slightly more than other IPAs. I remember watching the video about the collaboration (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqPDASoFJDA) and they specified that this was like a piña colada in a bottle. The truth is that it is true, but only to a minor to moderate extent. This beer does not boast lots of coconut and piña colada flavors but the notes are definitely there. Do not get your hopes up and expect a head on piña colada tasting beer but do expect an IPA that does have hints here and there of the flavors and aromas.

Overall, the beer does a pretty good job and bringing some very nice tropics to the scene and some nice hints that would not be found in some other IPAs. Either way, it is a pretty good beer and should still be tried. Maybe you can find more flavors than I can’t 🙂

Imperial Stout – Bourbon Barrel Aged a.k.a Black Gold by Full Sail Brewery

580112_10101105307342190_1810699105_nRating: 4.9/5

Imperial Stout – Bourbon Barrel Aged a.k.a Black Gold by Full Sail Brewery is a 9.6% ABV Russian Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels. This is the Brewmaster Reserve 2013

Label: 
A deep complex brew that is black as night with a strong roasted malt character and Full body. Brewed in December 2011, this stout was aged for 12 months in bourbon casks from Kentucky. This extended aging presents hints of vanilla and oak. Enjoy!
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First thing I thought when I opened this was Old Rasputin Barrel aged and Black Xantus. The fragrance told me everything. Flan rich aromas with the caramel, vanilla, bourbon, oak, chocolate cake, coconut, bananas, chocolate, dark fruits, cherries, peaches sweetened condenced milk. The flavors are similar with the coconut, bourbon, slight anise, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, slight flan and sweetened condenced milk, slight soy sauce, molasses, chocolate chip, cookies and cream, raisin, bananas, almost like a rum aspect, slight chocolate cake, slight mocha and almost like a coca cola after taste but still bourbon strong. While it does have so many of the rich flavors like some of the awesome Bourbon Barrel aged beers I have tried before, the flavors don’t stay for too long and don’t have the same intense impact as Old Rasputin and Black Xantus. However, it is still a really great beer with awesome dessert complexity. Almost like a strong beer that tries to be close to what some of the best are but a ¼ step to half step down. Which is not bad at all. I wouldn’t say it’s easy drinking, but definitely one to take your time with. What I do like about this is the fact that you do get those awesome awesome flavors as you would with some of the higher players but the impact isn’t as mind blowing. Still pretty surprisingly good and delicious but not up to the most mind blowing, only ¾ mind blowing. If no Black Xantus or Barrel aged Old Rasputin is found, then go with this. Hell, if no other bourbon barrel aged beer is around, still get this.