Rating: 7/7
2017 Black Tuesday – Port by The Bruery is a 17.8% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon barrels and port wine barrels.
The economy fluctuates. The latest fads inevitably decline. Black Tuesday stands the test of time. This rare release of our storied imperial stout was aged in port wine barrels, adding vinous undertones with notes of berries and chocolate to our favorite day of the week.
Chocoaky Mustaberries….
Rating: 7/7* Final Review of 2016
2016 PB & Thursday by The Bruery is a 19.8% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Peanut Flour.
Label:
SAMMICH
We claim the days of the week Sparingly With this release , we spread it on thick. This is our kind of Thursday.
Check The Forecast, down a cup of coffee, grab your backpack and pack something special to enjoy later on. Might we suggest this bottle? It is Thursday, after all. PB & Thursday – a peanuty variant of Black Tuesday. It won’t stick to the roof of your mouth, but it will impart layers of peanut butter character and bourbon-laced fudge notes to our storied imperial stout.
==Introduction==
Released to the Hoarders Society only, I had to reach out to my sources and definitely pull some beer leverage for this one. There was no way I could not pass up on this one and well, things paid off and now I have the next edition to the Weekday Series from The Bruery here to the site. For this being the last beer of 2016, it is only fitting. I did Grey Monday as the last beer of 2012 when I first started posting to my website. 4 years later and a new Weekday addition has come. This time, the Bruery has decided to add a Peanut butter beer as their Weekday. Peanut butter has really been exploding in the craft beer industry and I can’t blame them. Ever since Karl Strauss Peanut Butter Cup and Terrapin Liquid Bliss, it has been a damn staple in some of the best beers. Heck, even my first Experimental Bourbon Barrel aged Imperial Stout was made with peanut butter. Granted, some breweries add peanut butter flavoring and other manage to add real peanut butter or powdered peanut butter, the Bruery went with Peanut flour. I actually added something similar called PB2 to my brew, a ton of it! Also, the Bruery has made a peanut butter beer before called Elvis Tuesday which was Peanut Butter and Bananas. They also made one called PB & J which was peanut butter powder and boysenberry puree. I think with this however, the emphasis on more of a peanut and chunky peanut butter beer, they decided to go with peanut flour. This is definitely quite the honor and specially a great way to end this year. For many it has been decent but over all its been up and down. Let’s have a beer and celebrate for a better tomorrow! Cheers for another year of Anime and Beer reviews!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Peanut brittle, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, oak, vanilla, marshmallow, bourbon, Reese’s pieces peanut butter cups, Nutter Butter Cookies, Capn’ Crunch Peanut Butter Crunch cereal, roasted peanuts, Cocoa Krispies, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, pomegranates, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk hints, Rocky Road Ice cream, chocolate mousse, peanut butter and chocolate chip ice cream, Bananas, and clove spice.
Flavors:
Rich Reese’s pieces peanut butter cups, Nutter Butter Cookies, peanut brittle, roasted peanuts, peanut butter fudge, Capn’ Crunch Peanut butter crunch, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, peanut butter and chocolate smores, Cocoa Krispies, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian chocolates, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, pomegranates, flan, dulce de leche caramel, cotton candy, Irish Cream, Danish Cream, molasses, anise, maple syrup, rocky road ice cream, graham crackers, peanut butter cereal, port wine, crème brulee, tobacco, leather, mocha, Bananas, clove spice, oreo cookies, coffee cake, hazelnut nectar, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, waffle cone, peanut butter chocolate ice cream, peanut butter cookie dough, butterscotch, almond joy coconut,peanut butter chocolate mousse, 3 leches/ 3 Milks cake, sweetened condensed milk and pecan pie.
Aftertaste:
Finishing Rich in dark fruit, peanut butter, dark chocolate, marshmallows, oak, bourbon, vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter fudge and Reese’s peanut butter chocolate and rocky road ice cream. Slight booziness but mainly sweetness in the aftertaste and not even detracting from the flavors. Crimson Dark full body, velvety, smooth, creamy, syrupy and chewey mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability. Although there was times I wanted to just drink it all in one sitting.
Overall:
An Exceptional, Grandiose and supremely delicious addition the series of great beers. A bucket lister simply because I am a nut for peanut butter. This beer, just like Grey Monday did for Hazelut, Chocolate Rain for Chocolate, Wineification for Wine, Mocha Wednesday for Coffee, White Chocolate for Vanilla and Chocolate, this brand new day takes everything I loved about peanut butter and brings it full force. This is not peanut butter flavoring in any way. This is as close to real peanuts, roasted peanuts and real peanut butter as it gets. It definitely is closer to my peanut butter home brew but also the Sweep The Leg Peanut Butter Stout I got from my friend Aaron Mendiola in Texas. However, it is like take that peanut butter and the Gods of the universe named Black Tuesday rose you up to the heavens and said from this day forth, you are now, PB & Thursday. I’m sure it was damn magical when they finally decided to promote the Black Tuesday to become a new day of the week. They chose damn right. This special beer is definitely righteous to hold its place as such. I am hoping we see a release of this next year for us Reserve members as well as Preservation members, this one is definitely one for the book and one I recommend you try it especially if you are Black Tuesday.
End of The Year Statement:
I want to thank each and every one of you who have made this year special. Not just for keeping up with these wacky reviews, sometimes mistyped words and overall defender of many beers where people rate beers too harshly. I thank you for getting this far if you are new to the site or even been a fan for years. To all my readers, lovers, haters, Facebook, Untappd, SomethingAwful.com linkers and Twitter followers, regardless, thank you so much. I really appreciate the love and support from everyone and all the breweries that have contributed to my site growth, to my friend Aaron Mendiola from BeerMetalDude.com, to my fellow homebrew brothers, to the BeerBumz and to you, the reader, lover of beer and anime, KANPAI!
Anime Corner:
Emeralda Kasim from Xenogears was chosen in this review as I wanted to a make favorite character part of the awesome Bruery series. You see, KOS-MOS is the original Black Tuesday for Xenosaga/Xenogears. Rukia Kutchiki who I chose for Grey Monday was from Bleach, same as Yoruichi Shihouin who I chose for Chocolate Rain. Temari is my favorite top from Naruto and I chose White Chocolate. So for Mocha Wednesday, my next favorite who fit perfectly with the colors was Konan from Naruto as well. So that being said, I had not chosen another favorite character from the Xeno series aside from my top which was KOS-MOS. So that is when I decided to go with Emeralda. She is a hidden character and one of the most powerful in the game. Some might argue, she is the KOS-MOS of that series subsection as she is an experiment. KOS-MOS is an advanced cybernetic android, Emeralda is a shape shifting biological weapon that grows up later in the series. So, it was definitely a fit for this beer. You can easily tell I was going for colors of the label as well as colors of the flavors with crimson and and peanut butter colors representing Emeralda. The green of her hair is like that of the origin of peanuts, green. Essentially, this beer is like remembering one’s roots. Like Peanuts remember their green origin, one remembers the Black Tuesday origin and this special beer here will forever be that… very special, like Emeralda!
Sources:
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-xenogears-emeralda-kasim-583773.jpeg
http://static.zerochan.net/Emeralda.Kasim.full.872819.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Emeralda.Kasim.full.334009.jpg
http://charaud.com/wp-content/uploads/xenogears/emeralda_kasim01_03.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/c/1200×1200/img-master/img/2016/06/12/17/47/01/57362703_p0_master1200.jpg
http://orig15.deviantart.net/80c6/f/2015/201/6/3/emeralda_by_pechan-d91veif.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/X6dbA2V.jpg
Rating: 5.75/6
2016 Big Hugs by Half Acre brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Dark Matter Coffee
Description:
This beer is a thug. Big and chock full of tender embrace.
A specialty brew. Grab it when you see it. 10% ABV.
…Big Hugs has grappled with natural order and twisted the pillars of existence. While you hang in the balance, steal time to sit steady and spill this black rumble into your center. Big Hugs Imperial Stout is liquid char scraped from the bowels of eternity, soaked with the free spirit of an adolescent feline. Heed him and rejoice.
The time has come to release our annual homage to the accidentally violent, disastrous fly swatter we call Big Hugs. In its 8th year, Hugs has managed to break through the worm hole and find itself up against the real monsters – human kind.
==Introduction==
As a huge fan of this crazy Kaiju Cat, I feel it is my duty every year to bring forth news of the return of a monster. A giant cat that can only suit its feels with hugging and massively destroying to the human race. Of course, he is loved by many. Who wouldn’t? Which makes me wonder how he would fare against Godzilla. To be honest, they would just be the best of friends. Who knows, maybe Big Hugs is Godzilla’s cat and no one knew it. Regardless, this one is one that you have to embrace. Take it on like a quest of dragons…err… cats. Like previous years, I hope to bring the beer to the site. Even if it is just the basic one. I think they do something different every year. Also, since I bought this years Dark Matter Coffee with Pink Himalayan Salt, I wonder if it will actually have that. Although, there is a version like that already. Anyways, let’s take on this Catastrophe!, Cheers!
Aromas:
Chocolate milk shake, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, fudge chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha, fancy coffee, espresso, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, dark cherries, blueberries, coconut hints, tobacco, molasses, anise, leather, toffee, pecan pie, mild peanut butter and banana hints.
Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, German Chocolate, salted dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toasted coconut hints, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, dark cherries, blueberries, roasted coffee, mocha, fancy coffee, espresso, vinous grape notes, Kahlua Liqueur, brownies, pecan pie, bananas, malted chocolate, chocolate mousse, oatmeal cookies, smokey notes, anise, port wine, earthy notes, cookie dough ice cream, pecan pie, toffee, rock candy, salted chocolate, tobacco, leather, brown sugar, fudge chocolate, hazelnut nectar and pralines.
Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with caramel, sea salt, vanilla, dark chocolate, peanut butter, Fancy Coffee roast, spicy coffee complexity earthy notes and dark fruits. No alcohol in the taste, Dark like the abyss of nothingness dark body, Smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and almost easy to drink despite the ABV.
Overall:
I find it very interesting that this version of Big Hugs, while very exceptional and delicious as always, it had some salty notes like that of the Salted Chocolate version of the beer. It is interesting because the actual coffee does have Pink Himalayan salt, yes, the little baggie in the pictures. Makes wonder if they did use the same coffee as they did in the past years or if this is a new blend. Needless to say, still one of my favorite beers and the salty notes surely does add some complexity to the beer. Now while I did love this one, I am sure the variants are even better ofcourse. This one should still be seeked though as it is the original. Here watch this Cat Video from them to find out why you need this beer in your life. LOL Cheers!
Big Hugs from Meredith Anderson on Vimeo.
Anime Corner:
Ark Angel MR or evil Mythra from Final Fantasy XI was used in this pairing as I used her in the last pairing. The original idea had to do with the whole Big Hugs. Since she is a gray cat lady with crimson eyes, it would have fit with the Mecha Hugs Label from back in the day. The fact that she is an Ark Angel, she fits even more perfect with the evil Big Hugs and the whole Big Hugs as she squeezes the orange Mythra representing the colors of the original Big Hugs cat.
I also included original character Kisha the furry cat (character created by Kisharra of DeviantArt.com) as her color represent Christmas. This beer is released for Christmas so I figure this would work out since I found a picture of her hugging another furry cat on Christmas. Also, with that sensual stare, who wouldn’t want to hug up against a warm cat. Ofcourse, just like Big Hugs, big cats in real life are dangerous, just like the ABV on this one.
Sources:
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/564b9-chp6jf56bks039cj.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OqDjeY-4Tco/VkYAtgys6-I/AAAAAAAAdq4/8PD6QB9JRlM/w1602-h895/furry-%2525D1%252584%2525D1%25258D%2525D0%2525BD%2525D0%2525B4%2525D0%2525BE%2525D0%2525BC%2525D1%25258B-furry-art-furry-feline-1828652.png
http://tbib.org/images/3267/1b28a1e0f2f2b5d828c92ed0744d0309599c850f.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_E5x9oEAUbI/WAyX6gKIN6I/AAAAAAAACyQ/KpGw1qUkCCg3qGdScYywQgg-VgZ2YTSWACJoC/w1044-h1980/AYvf2nGehqw.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/2qwyCtD.jpg
Rating: 6/6
2016 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 20.3% ABV World Class Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.
I have reviewed this one many times so this year, I am leaving it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Each year it is more awesome and the ABV seems to climb higher and higher. Cheers!
https://animebeers.com/2015/12/05/2015-black-tuesday-by-the-bruery/
Rating: 6/6
Home brewing Project#18 La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 12% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.
Label:
Holy Trappist Belgian Quadruple brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.
A prophecy, only once told by the highest of religious leaders, has predicted The Four Nuns or Las
Quatro Monjas will return. Ancient manuscripts indicated that the Abbey Nun, The Buddhist Nun, The Shaolin Nun and the Celestial Space Nun will each bring the nectar of God as given to man once before.
This time, however, the nuns infuse the elements of Wind, Water, Fire and Earth to create a celestial nectar. Meanwhile, various religious leaders forbid that mankind ever lay their lips on the very oracle left by the nuns. Lucky for you, the nuns happen to enjoy visiting Nubis Sanctum Ales.
La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad, or The SancTequilified Quadrinity is stored in this very bottle.
Ingredients: Holy Water, Malts, Hops, Dark Belgian Candi Sugar, Turbinado Cane Sugar, French Oak, Herradura Añejo Tequila & Trappist Yeast.
==Introduction==
Project #18 came from the need to surpass my previous skills of the brewing arts. After successfully creating project #2, I wanted to create a barrel aged version of that special quadrupel that I held very close to my heart. So what did I do? I adjusted the recipe to add a bit more ingredients than before including one of them being a small sample of Holy land water. Yes, some people may think this is blasphemous, but in order to make a brew that was truly worthy of monks in Belgium and praise to the almighty God (depending on your beliefs) I added the vial to the brew at flame out. I am no priest but I did say a prayer for the brew to bring forth good fortune to those that drink it. LOL I just hope the beer doesn’t make my friend Aaron Mediola from BeerMetalDude.com catch fire (Just Kidding brother!). So the liquor I decided to use in this project was a Tequila. Why Tequila? Well, two reasons. First, tequila barrel aged brews rule and are to come by and second, after The Lost Abbey made Agave Maria which was their Tequila Barrel aged brew, I decided it was perfect. The beer was going to be about nuns and their worship to God. It was also a crazy idea I really wanted to do. Why is it Project# 18? Well, I had made this brew back in February 2016 and after a month, I put it on the Tequila oak for 6 months. The Tequila was sitting in oak since January 2016 so 2+6, that’s 8 months! Essentially, the 12% ABV was something unexpected but my working with Turbinado and Candi sugars probably had a lot to do with it. Regardless, I bottled it last month and now October 6, 2016 I bring it forth for a review. Yes, the brew will be published at a later date on my site but for perspective purposes and logging this masterpiece I want to get it right. So, for being a quadrupel aged in tequila, I hope is nothing short of amazing and knowing that I can definitely make an awesome brew, I will be pursuing more projects soon like this. Stay tuned, but for now, let’s take a look at this celestial nectar. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tequila notes, oak, Dark fruits of plums, raisins, figs, cherries, bubble gum notes, clove spice, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruits, Bananas, Brown sugar, Belgian Candi sugar, Chocolate, Sangria, rice pudding, tamarind, marshmallows, chocolate smores, lechugilla agave nectar, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Danish cream, port wine, fruit cake, leathery hints, apples and butterscotch.
Flavors:
Rich Dulce De Leche Caramel, Grilled Bananas, Deep Dark fruits, plums, raisins, figs, dark cherries, dates, clove spice, Belgian Candi sugar, bubble gum notes, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, sweetened condensed milk, tamarind,Vanilla, Oak, Marshmallows, Tequila, Mezcal, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Sangria Wine grapes, Mexican pan dulce, Danish cream, rock candy, port wine, leather notes, rye bread, pecan pie, hazelnut hints, pecan ice cream, brown sugar, dragon fruit notes, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruit peaches, golden apples, flan, funnel cake, waffle cone, mango notes and butterscotch.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with a Tequila and vanilla oak flavors with so much complexity lingering of the rich dark fruits, caramel, pecan pie, flan, sweetened condensed milk, sangria, agave, stone fruit, funnel cake and mild Danish cream. Slightly boozy in the aftertaste but diminishes as the beer gets warmer and does not detract from the flavors. Full bodied Honey Crimson Colored, Smooth, velvety, creamy, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability
Overall:
Nothing short of a miracle. I am very proud of these results. The Tequila takes this brew to another level. I do not give this one a 7/7 since it is not a beer you could find, but trust me when I say you could drink some of my brews. To me, it is my own personal bucket lister in the sense that I really feel I have achieved so much just from trying different beers and now trying to make my own different beers. This one is probably the best one I have ever made along with the Sangrileche Stout, Frontier Tropics and Diablita De Leche Banana Weizenbock. This beer screams some godly ambrosia. Some nectar that even I don’t understand. I can definitely feel proud that if those dudes at Westvleteren or St. Bernardus tried my beer, they would definitely find it indistinguishable from some of their greats!
Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach, KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, Temari Sabakuno from Naruto and Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill make a return in this brew. Since I used them in my Project# 2, Las Quadtro Monjas, it was only fair to get them in the somewhat right attire for nuns they represent. They represent my passion for the work that I do. Reviewing and Brewing. These girls have been my favorite characters from the different anime series that I love for the longest time going way back to the year 2002. Being a big anime fan and the shows I like, complementing the beers I love with different characters doesn’t have the same effect as the way I complement using my top favorites. AS I mentioned in the last review of the original base beer, the name Las Quad-tro is a play on the Belgian word for Quadrupel and Cuatro which is 4. La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad is a play on the words for La Santisima Trinidad or The Holy Trinity. I had worked for a couple weeks not only finding the right combinations of artwork in photo-shop but the right backgrounds. Of course, all the artwork belongs to the perspective owner as I do not claim any art. As I mentioned before too, the 4 girls are the best and the ones I use as my mascots for my whole passion of anime and the best beers in this whole lost treasures of taste and experience. Cheers!
Rating: 4.85/5
God Damn Pigeon Porter by Spiteful Brewing is an 8.2% ABV American Porter.
Label:
Don’t fight it, SPITE IT! God Damn Pigeon Porter was brewed with our friends from across the pond in mind. Using traditional English Amber malt we built a robust ale. But being the unruly Americans we are, we put our own hoppy twist on it. A late addition of Simcoe enhances the roasted character with resinous aroma. One pint of this delightful porter will take your mind off the everyday nuisances of city life, from Chicago to London, Especially those f-ing pigeons!”
==Introduction==
Got this one from my friend Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.com. Spiteful brewing has been really hitting homeruns so far with me. After having their Working for the Weekend brew and the awesome label art, I was hooked. Even some of their other brews and art are very appealing and awesome! Hilarious even. Like the Selfie beer that shows a dude punching himself in the nuts for even considering taking a Selfie. Now that’s artwork and storytelling! With that being said, let’s see why so much spite for the pigeons, let’s see, cheers!
Aromas:
Roasty malts, smokey notes, dark chocolate, dark fruit currants, cherries, raisin notes, smokey notes, soy sauce hints, vanilla, caramel, toffee, earthy hops, molasses, mint, anise and coffee cake hints.
Flavors:
Citrus, piney, grapefruit hinted and earthy hops, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, mango hints, smokey notes, soy sauce hints, plum sauce, dark fruit currants, cherries, raisin notes, molasses, mint, anise, coffee cake hints, vanilla, caramel and toffee.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with dark chocolate, roasted malt notes, earthy hops and dark fruit notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and rich mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.
Overall:
A very good porter for being so spiteful towards pigeons. As long as the porter doesn’t have pigeon poop since they spite humans back. It doesn’t of course. Being so rich, chocolate and creamy, this a definite must try. For being the second brew I have from Spiteful brewing, I definitely would love to have more if I ever get the opportunity but definitely get this is you are a Chicago local.
Anime Corner:
Original character was used in this paring as I wanted to get a character that would pair with the black and white parts of the artwork. The colors of the eyes work well with the dark fruit presence of the brew. The beer at hand just means that while she smiles back, it either means she wants you or she is secretly plotting against you. You don’t really know with this brew lol.
Sources:
http://40.media.tumblr.com/9aacb19ee61beef95ddf1635e76e328b/tumblr_o12xyrnzyA1r4089mo1_1280.png
Rating: 5.75/6
2015 Big Hugs by Half Acre brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Dark Matter Coffee
Description:
This beer is a thug. Big and chock full of tender embrace.
A specialty brew. Grab it when you see it. 10% ABV.
==Introduction==
Another year, another installment of the great and mighty Big Hugs. Every year since I first had it I have tried to get a hold of this one. I have missed some installments in the past but each year is something different but similar to the previous beer. Big Hugs the Cat started off with hugging giant buildings but he moved on to hugging other things and having to fight other giant monsters. This time, a giant snake. Since they released the beer, Dark Matter also released a special Coffee as well which are the coffee beans that were aged in the same beer. Essentially, more ingredients for future beers. Anyway, let’s have a look at this, cheers!
Aromas:
Rich mocha, Fancy roasted coffee, espresso, Vanilla, Caramel, Milk Sugar, Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, bakers chocolate, German Chocolate, brownies, peanut butter, pecan pie, rock candy, toffee, Bananas, clove spice, vinous grape notes, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, coffee cake and pecan pie notes.
Flavors:
Rich Vanilla, Caramel, Milk Sugar, Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, bakers chocolate, German Chocolate, Mocha, Fancy roasted coffee, espresso, vinous grape notes, java, Kahlua liqueur, Dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, dark cherries, blueberries, brownies, peanut butter, pecan pie, rock candy, toffee, Bananas, clove spice, herbal notes, tobacco, leather, smokey notes, walnuts, pralines, cinnamon, earthy notes, oatmeal cookies, cookie dough ice cream, anise, port wine, vinous grape notes, chocolate fudge, cherry and coffee cake, chocolate mousse, malt chocolate and coffee milk shake.
Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with vanilla, caramel, chocolate, peanut butter, Fancy Coffee roast, spicy coffee complexity earthy notes and dark fruits. No alcohol in the taste, Dark like the abyss of nothingness dark body, Smooth and creamy mouthfeel and almost easy to drink despite the ABV.
Overall:
What can I say about this beer that I have not mentioned before. There is a reason I get this beer every year and even implemented dark matter coffee into my homebrews. Their stuff is the stuff of craft beer legend. With the recipe using the Coffee, it elaborates so many deep dark complex, fruity yet chocolatey, caramely and other sweets of the sweets goodness. As every year I try this, I highly recommend it.
Anime Corner:
Ark Angel MR or evil Mythra as well as Dragoon Mithra from Final Fantasy XI was used in this pairing as I used her in the last pairing. The original idea had to do with the whole Big Hugs. Since she is a gray cat lady with crimson eyes, it would have fit with the Mecha Hugs Label from back in the day. The fact that she is an Ark Angel, she fits even more perfect with the evil Big Hugs and the whole Big Hugs as she squeezes the orange Mythra representing the colors of the original Big Hugs cat. This beer as you stare at the dark yet determined Dragoon Mithra which represents victorious version of Big hugs in the under label, she wears that Snake like it was a dragon armor… a victory well suited.
Sources:
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/564b9-chp6jf56bks039cj.jpg
http://cdn-images.9cloud.us/220/lusciousnet_247-mithra-sliver_647660714.jpg
http://76.72.168.19/images/2010-01-24-238064.jpeg
Rating: 6/6
2015 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 19.9% ~20%ABV World Class 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
==Introduction==
So we reached yet another year of the Bruery’s finest. Such a great year and the strongest Black Tuesday yet at 19.9% ABV. I might as well just call it a 20% ABV beer as there is not point in being accurate. This is going to be my final Black Tuesday review (Or at least the regular Black Tuesday). I have enjoyed this favorite countless times and I think it is finally time to put the continuous review of this beer away regardless if it gets stronger. Maybe I’ll put a small blurb somewhere, Who knows. If you want to get your hands on this limited release, you will have to do 1 of 3 things. First, if it is still the month of November, sign up for the 4th quarter preservation society, sign up for the Reserve society, or win the Bruery’s lottery for Black Tuesday which they do every October, or at least that is what they have been doing. Other than those 3, trading or buying online in the secluded beer stores, you may get lucky to get this one. At this rate, this beer should not be consumed in one sitting unless you know what your are doing lol. Either way, I don’t have to mention what I have already mentioned many times before, this beer is supremely phenomenal. So here’s to the future and more Black Tuesday being available to the masses one day! Cheers!
Aromas:
Oak, Bourbon, dark fruits raisins, figs, prunes, bananas, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Belgian Chocolates, clove spice, Vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, anise, toffee, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, port wine hints, brown sugar, leather, mint, tobacco, mint, Irish cream, agave syrup, candi sugar, rock candy, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, pudding, graham cracker smores, coconut, smokey notes, choco flan, Kahlua, marshmallows, coffee hints and piloncillo.
Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, Vanilla Dulce De Leche Caramel, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, Rich Bananas, Grilled Bananas, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, cherries, raspberries, flan, leche nestle/sweetened condenced milk, choco flan, brown sugar, mocha hints, coffee, Khalua Liquer, Irish and Danish cream, Oreo cookies and cream, Toffee, Piloncillo Sugar Cone, Cotton candy, marshmallows, toasted coconut hints, tobacco, leather, cinnamon, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, molasses, anise, mint, maple syrup, almond joy, rocky road icecream, crème brulee, clove spice, port wine notes, graham crackers, waffle cone ice cream, butterscotch, black cherries, chocolate cheese cake, mousse chocolate dessert and pancho pantera chocolate powder.
Aftertaste:
Immense lingering flavors of Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut hints, marshmallow, dark fruits, dulce de leche, vanilla, oak, bourbon, pecan pie, coconut hints, tres leches cake, chocolate cake, cherry cordial hints and gooey brownies. Strange, despite the highest ABV this beer has been, the boozy aspect has diminished more than it’s previous incarnations. Remains a beyond pitch black deliciousness of a full body. Velvety, silky, syrupy, smooth and rich creamy mouthfeel, and still a sipping drinkability. Very much the balanced and KOS-MOSly/Orderly beer.
Overall:
Oh how I am going to miss dissecting this beer. It has been a long time phenomenal favorite of mine but since I have reviewed it many times again and again, it is time I make this one the last one. I have said many times over and over what this beer is capable and while many states have their versions of that one Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout that always becomes coveted by masses, Black Tuesday will always be a staple of being one of my most favorite beers of all time. It’s variants have even paired with some of my other favorite anime characters. The future of newer beers to come that are also variants I will save.
Anime Corner: tl;dr
As being my final Black Tuesday Review (Like I haven’t done it enough!) This time I bring forth the KOS-MOS Plushy I got back in 2005. Yes it is an old plushie but I keep the favorites stored safely. I think I did such a great job of pairing Kos-mos from the several beer reviews back that I wanted to bring the 2013 Anime corner below. Also, the 20% goes along with the second picture where she is holding the world on her fin. As to who is Kos-mos, see below:
KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four 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 (the stock market) 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 (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. 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 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, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!
Sources:
http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs49/i/2012/337/8/9/the_firebird_suite_by_melficexd-d23or7w.jpg
http://img01.deviantart.net/8c5b/i/2012/166/4/b/synthetik_kosmos_by_einheit00-d53n9lr.jpg
Rating: 4.5/5
Shadowboxing by Monkish brewing is a 7% ABV Belgian Dubbel
==Introduction==
Obtained a growler fill at Monkish. Many of the great beers I have tried but this time I wanted to bring an original Dubbel style from them. The Shaolin Fist was the dubbel but with Szechuan peppercorns and this is the original. I may do a review on the Shaolin Fist sometime in the future but for the mean time, here is the review for the original athlete, the dubbel! Cheers!
Aromas:
dulce de leche caramel, rock candy, candy sugar, Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, cherries, blackberry, dates, vanilla, biscuit bread, clove spice, banana notes, Stone fruit peaches and brown sugar notes.
Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, cherries, blackberry, dates, Stone fruit peaches, vanilla, biscuit bread, clove spice, banana notes, rich dulce de leche caramel, rock candy, candy sugar, toffee, molasses, blackberry marmalade, pecan pie hints, raisin bread pudding and fruit cake hints.
Aftertaste:
Nice rich dark fruit, clove spice, banana notes, earthy notes and candy sugar finish. No alcohol in the taste, medium brown body, smooth, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel and an easy to moderate drinkability.
Overall:
Very delicious Dubbel reminiscent of the delicious Dubbels of Belgium. Sweet mainly and some spicy goodness as part of Dubbels to keep stuff balanced. A good amount of the dark fruits, Belgian candy sugar and more all over. I recommend a try if you are ever at Monkish Brewing.
Anime Corner:
Original Boxer girl was used in this paring as I wanted to pair with the theme of boxing mainly. The name of shadowboxing is the style and training one does to compete in the sport. How does the beer relate to the name it is given? I do not know but two fist are needed to box. If boxing was a form used by monks of Asia (I guess Kick Boxing would work) then the relation to Monks by name and a tie to Belgian Monks and Tibet monks then the beer might have its link by proxy.
Sources:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dPstQVRYKoM/TcL2IeYCHCI/AAAAAAAAIJw/fNyu3KN_920/s9000/BoxerGirl.jpg
Rating: 7/5
Mélange 12 by Bruery is a 16.8% ABV American Strong Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans, Cacao Nibs and Hazelnuts.
Label:
NUTSO!
A curious amalgam of barrel-aged beer seeping with notes of burnt marshmallows and toasty nuts.
Mélange No 12 is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may develop pleasantly if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 50°F (10°C). Best enjoyed with friends and served in a tulip glass.
Mélange #12 is a uniquely debonair blend of some of our favorite strong ales that have been allowed to age gently in bourbon barrels for an average of nearly 22 months. Once these barrels were carefully selected to blend, we chose to enhance the beer and barrel flavors with three of our favorite ingredients: cacao nibs, vanilla beans and hazelnuts.
==Introduction==
Melange #12 released to Reserve Society and Hoarders society alike is a blend of several different beers that are undesclosed but based on the previous melange versions, they include, Black Tuesday, the Anniversary beers, White Oak and others I am sure as this is what Melange 3 composed of and the sequential Melange ones expanded from this other blends. I made a careful decisions as this beer comprises of many of the components that make up the Weekday brews such as Chocolate Rain, White Grey Monday, possibly Wineification, Cacaonut and Chocolate Rain. So I had no doubt that this would disappoint in any way. A Cuvee ambrosia of heavenly delight? Perhaps, let’s check this one out, cheers!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella and so much more!
Flavors:
Pure Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella, Mexican Duvalin candy, chocolate chip cookie dough, Danish cream, Bear claw doughnut, mousse chocolate, marzipan and more.
Aftertaste:
Super rich nutella, toasted coconut, white chocolate, port wine, Belgian chocolate, bourbon, oak, hazelnut nectar, tropical dragon fruit hints and passion fruit amongst other heavenly sweets. No alcohol in the taste, Dark yet Crimson Medium to Full body, sipping drinkabaility and Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
Overall:
The best of the best and exclusive of elusive beers with no way of getting another unless they make this once again or you trade. It was definitely a special occasion as I tried this one. If they ever release as much of Melange 12 as they do of Melange 3, I am buying every single one!! This beer is like you took the alittle bit from each of the Bruery’s best beers and made a Cuvee. Basically, there is notes of Chocolate Rain, Grey Monday, Melange 3, Cacaonut, White Chocolate, Black Tuesday, Wineification and their anniversary beers and combined it to make this liquid Gold! Aging for 22 months is ridiculous but it is surely something that is truly unique and amazing. If you have the opportunity to get this one, do it!!!
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach as being my favorite anime characters always get the best pairings in some of the beers I truly feel are deserving of that ‘Heavenly and Godly Ambrosia’ Liquid status as with many of the beers I have tried, this one to me captures what I feel is the best of the Bruery which are many of the Weekday beers into one. I once did a pairing with them doing Melange 3 except at the time, it was jusr Kos-Mos, Temari and Yoruichi. Ryuko from Kill la Kill had not come out and it wasn’t until later that I really loved her character in the series as she was a major bad ass. So I was glad I was able to pair them with this heavenly bliss of a beer. Melange 3 multiplied by 4 is Melange 12 so it makes the perfect pairing!
Rating: 6.25/5
2010 Coton (2nd Anniversary) by The Bruery is a 14.5% World Class Old Ale blend with 75% ale and 25% ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.
Label:
Bottle 08177
This sturdy beer marks our second 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.
Coton (Cotton) will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.
Commercial Description
2010 2nd Anniversary Ale. This sturdy beer marks our second year, an incredible year of growth and learning experiences. Together may our supporters, our brewery, and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.
==Introduction==
Coton or “Cotton” in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 2nd year in which Cotton is given. The beer will be released in 2010 but was sold as a special release in May 2015 to the public. I was able to snag a bottle since I have never had it or brought it to the site in the past. Here it is now so if your are able to trade for it, I hope my humble review helps you in your path to enlightenment to the great brews of old and supremacy. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, prunes, dried cherries, dried cranberries, currants, figs, blackberries, raspberries, boysenberry jelly, figgy pudding, rich oak, rich bourbon, leather, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, peaches in syrup, pears, burnt sugar, pecan pie, tobacco, peach cobbler and almond joy, peaches in cream, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, flan, Cadbury cream eggs, crème brulee, brown sugar, Mexican vanilla, piloncillo, rum hints, bourbon hints, whiskey hints, toasted coconut hints and marshmallows.
Flavors:
Supremely rich dark fruits raisins, plums, prunes, dried cherries, dried cranberries, currants, figs, blackberries, raspberries, boysenberry jelly, figgy pudding, very rich oak, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, flan, Cadbury cream eggs, crème brulee, brown sugar, Mexican vanilla, piloncillo, rum hints, bourbon hints, whiskey hints, toasted coconut hints, marshmallows, grilled bananas, grilled plantains, white chocolate, Belgian Dark Candi sugar, rock candy, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peaches in syrup, pears, burnt sugar, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, peach cobbler and almond joy.
Aftertaste:
Lots of oak, port wine, Raspberry Chamboard, Rich dark fruit prunes, dulce de leche, leather notes, molasses, rye bread, tobacco, earthy notes, old stone fruits and aged sugar. It’s crazy to see how non-alcoholic this feels. Damn smooth, rich, creamy, soft and mildly syrupy mouthfeel, moderate to siping drinkability and crimson brown colored clear body.
Overall:
A syrupy wine and barley wine fusion of complex proportions! This here for being 5 years old is one of the most, if not the most complex beer that has been aged for years, the most complex beer next to Draco from 2009. The beer is screaming for being one of the most complex beers I have ever had that was aged. I can probably admit that if I ever have Papier, then that would the up most of complexest experiences but this right here, even if not the 100% bourbon barrel aged has a ton to say for itself. It is the original so it deserves its merits as a veteran in the craft beer world. Which reminds me, I do have beers cellared from long ago. I wonder how those will be when I finally get around to them. Only time will tell.
Anime Corner:
Asagi Igawa from Taimanin Asagi was used in this pairing because I wanted to do a bad ass ninja but also the color of cotton which is white which was perfect for this pairing. Yes, she maybe from a restricted audience entertainment of Japan yet she is bad ass regardless. She fights for what she believes in and this beer for being 2nd to the supremest beer (Papier) fits the category of pure bad ass!. Hot as well (Complexity) Bad Ass (ABV) and drinks like an angel (Insert orgasmic drink quote here).
Sources:
http://www.theanimegallery.com/data/thumbs/790px/0156/tAG_156129.jpg
Rating: 6.2/5
2011 Cuir (3rd Anniversary) by The Bruery is a 14.5% World Class Old Ale blend with 75% ale and 25% ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.
Label:
Bottle 14277
This sturdy beer marks our third 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.
Cuir (Leather) will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.
Commercial Description:
Cuir is our third anniversary ale. It is the same recipe as Papier and Coton, created using the Solera method. Layered with complex flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, oak, and burnt sugar, we blended a portion of both Papier and Coton that had been aging in oak barrels with this new batch of the same beer, adding an additional layer of complexity that will grow over time as we continue to age and blend with each anniversary, creating an older average age to the ale.
==Introduction==
Cuir or “Leather” in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 3rd year in which Leather is given. The beer will be released in 2011 but was sold as a special release in May 2015 to the public. I was able to snag a bottle since I have never had it or brought it to the site. Unfortunately, this was only sold one at a time so in order to get this one, you may have to trade for it unless you have in your cellar already. Regardless, it is something very special that may not see the light of day or hardly a taste bud for that matter and therefore, it reserves its right to fame in the Animebeers community. Cheers!
Aromas:
Brown sugar, chocolate truffles, pears, waffle cone, white chocolate, raspberry chambord, leather, oak, marshmallows, bourbon hints, chocolate smores, toffee, wine notes, port wine, wine grapes, raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, butterscotch, dark belgian candi sugars, dark fruits galore like raisins, rich plums, dark cherries, blue berries, currants, black berries, raspberries, figgy pudding, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, stone fruit apricots, peaches, pears and Cadbury cream eggs.
Flavors:
Supreme dark fruits galore like raisins, rich plums, dark cherries, blue berries, currants, black berries, raspberries, figgy pudding, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, stone fruit apricots, peaches, pears, Cadbury cream eggs, burnt sugar, grilled bananas, brown sugar chocolate truffles, pears, waffle cone, white chocolate, raspberry chambord, leather, oak, marshmallows, bourbon hints, chocolate smores, toffee, wine notes, port wine, wine grapes, raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, butterscotch, dark belgian candi sugars, dark chocolate, rock candy and banana split sundae.
Aftertaste:
Super rich dark fruits and extreme complex flavors or rich caramel, toffee, port wine, dark cherries, chocolate hints, marshmallows, bourbon, oak, butterscotch and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste as time has done wonders to this beer. Smooth, creamy, syrupy and silky mouthfeel, Moderate to sipping drinkability, crimson red brown clear body.
Overall:
A true wine among beers! Damn, this beer was over the top super dark fruit centric involving such a damn richness that I have only seen with beers that have been aging for more than 3 years! The reason it feels like a wine amongst the beers of the world has to do with the dark fruits but the aging making it super complex and velvety. I have no idea what Wine Connoisseurs do but I am assuming it has to be close to this as they do drink fermented beverages that age for 5, 10, 20 even 50 years. Cuir just seems like something so above the other beers of the Bruery Anniversary I have tried that it makes me wonder what time will say about those beers some day. Here’s hoping but if you can trade, get it for sure!
Anime Corner:
Misato Katsuragi from Neon Genesis Evangelion was used in this pairing because along with my theme of using plug suit characters from Evangelion, Misato was one of my favorite characters that I don’t think really got to wear a plug suit outside the original series and was definitely something I wanted to bring forward. So since we are going backwards from “Fruet”, I felt this was the appropriate place to do so with her and continue the Bruery Anniversary tradition even if going backwards. She was damn perfect for this pairing because of the dark fruits but also because her “what if” scenario where she sported a plugsuit it was said to be made of dark leather. Dark Leather plus Dark Fruit colors from her hair is what Cuir is all about in its flavors true and rich!
Sources:
http://th09.deviantart.net/fs70/PRE/f/2013/323/9/4/misato_wallpaper_by_reptileye-d6u6x4k.jpg
http://hdwallpapersfactory.com/wallpaper/neon_genesis_evangelion_nerv_misato_katsuragi_desktop_1754x1240_hd-wallpaper-655410.jpg
Rating: 5/5
American Strong by Oceanside Ale Works is a 9.2% ABV American Strong Ale.
Label:
American Strong is high in malt character with luscious malt complexity. Featuring six select varieties of northwestern hops, the balance is malty with a hint of fruity esters. It’s brewed in Oceanside, California, near the historic Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, in a city whose rich military history makes it truly American Strong. Now you can enjoy Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of great craft beer with OAW’s American Strong Ale.
==Introduction==
I was able to find this one at my local shop and this along with Daliesque, The DUDE IPA and Bleuet, this would be the 4th beer I try from OAW. Ever since Mark Purciel, owner at OAW introduced me to the video (http://www.thehopshighway.com/video/) he was interviewed in about this beer I had been meaning to try it. I finally have it and even as I write I am pretty damn excited to give this one a whirl. Such Pride, Much ‘Merica, Wow Craft Beer, Very Cheers!
Aromas:
Rich toasted rye bread over honey and peanut butter hints, toffee, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, honey, dark fruit raisins, cherries, plums, blackberries, dragon fruit, strawberry notes, butterscotch, toffee, hazelnut nectar, flan, salted caramel ice cream, rocky road, waffle cone and marshmallows
Flavors:
Rye bread, rich dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, honey, grapes, Apples, pears, apricots, strawberries, dragon fruit, passion fruit hints, black currants, black berries, dark fruit cherries, raisins, plum, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, milk chocolate, brown sugar, molasses, toffee, pecan pie, floral notes, rich hazelnut nectar, peanut butter hints, flan, rock candy, butterscotch and salted caramel ice cream.
Aftertaste:
Rich rye, honey and caramel linger along with hazelnut, fruity notes and earthy notes as well. No alcohol in the taste, creamy mouthfeel, sipping drinkability and a caramel brown body.
Overall:
Very awesome indeed! Lot’s of malty sweetness that I love from awesome beers like these reminding me almost of a Barleywine but yet more of a rye ale with some complex fruitiness. I loved this one so much I unfortunately did not save any and drank it in a sitting. Lucky it was my last beer for the night and was definitely spot on in many ways. I love malty beers and this one hit the spot for me on so many levels. Long Live America and thanks to Mark Purciel for making this awesome beer 😛 . Cheers Oceanside Ale Works!
Anime Corner:
Lumisa Kosugi from La Mulana 2 was used in this pairing as I wanted to give a good representation of American and Strong and well, this awesome picture came up of this cowgirl that happens to be Japanese but proud American bringing in the whole aspect Anime pairing. I really like how bad ass she looks and goes as bad ass with the beer.
Sources:
http://nigoro.jp/ja/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/lumisa.jpg
My Beer Homebrew Project #2 Review. Cheers!
Rating: 5/5
Las Quadtro Monjas by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 10% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel.
Label:
Kept in the dark for many years, the Four Nuns or Las Quatro Monjas appear each presenting an unforeseen treasure that was hidden from ancient time itself. Legend has it that these treasures were ingredients that were bestowed by the almighty God himself. The ingredients were thrown into a brew kettle by the nuns and made into a holy nectar. A recipe practiced by holy monks today. Folklore has it that some of the original nectar has passed the test of time, passed on through the ages and has seeped into this very bottle…
Las Quad-tro Monjas is a Belgian Trappist Quadruple Ale made in the style like the monks do in the Belgian Monastaries. They devote their lives to good faith and making good holy beers. This homebrew project started as a dream that became reality with a lot of devotion, patience, care and love. Conditioning for 1 month after fermentation, this beer will cellar for several years if kept in a dark and cool location. A beer that is strong in alcohol yet sweet and complex.
Ingredients: Water, malts, hops, Belgian Candi sugar, cane sugar and trappist yeast .
==Introduction==
The time has come… My dream of creating a Belgian Quadruple is finally here. First brewed in January 24th 2015, Racked in Secondary Februrary 14th 2015 and Bottled March 14th 2015 the brew is finally ready for the test. To this date, as I mentioned in the label description, it was my dream to someday make this style of beer and after so long, I finally did it. It does give a surreal and proud feeling knowing that something you always wished you could do, and with hard work, it can actually come to fruition. I always wanted to make this type of beer style, the Belgian Quadruple, ever since I started trying different beers. With a lot of patience, love and care, Now it is finally here! The best part is that this will mature for years well like a fine wine. For being my most complex beer to date, I have to analyze it as best as possible and hopefully the recipe will improve or I will make again next time. Cheers!
Aromas:
Rich bananas, clove spice, Rich dark fruit plums, raisins, figs, dates, black cherries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark black cherries, peaches, pears, vanilla, toffee, anise hints, molasses, port wine hints, pecan pie, flan hints, brown sugar, rock candy and Belgian dark candi sugar.
Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like black cherries, raisins, plums, figs, dates, leather hints, cinnamon hints, flan hints, peaches, pears, vanilla, butterscotch, toffee, chocolate notes, pecan pie, buttery Mexican pan dulce, Danish cream, rock candy, Belgian candi sugar, port wine, raspberry chambord, apples, rye bread, anise, molasses, blackberry preserves, dragon fruit hints, brown sugar and butter pecan ice cream.
Aftertaste:
Rich dark fruits and dulce de leche caramel linger with a slight sweet port wine and earthyness. Very small and slight hints of booze but are covered up by the sugary Belgian notes and dark fruit sweetness. Dark crimson body, moderate to sipping drinkability, velvety,syrupy and bold mouthfeel with a very rich and smoothness.
Overall:
As the beer warms up, the flavors evolve into some very rich and even more complex flavors giving way to the velvety notes I mentioned earlier. I really don’t know what to say. So many people really loved this beer to where many thought I added actual plums, peaches and bananas to it. Others thought it was so subtle like a gentle wine. I myself taking my time with it, the only thing was that it was low carbonated but even then this beer was something so amazing entirely I was stunned to make such a perfection that I kind of teared up a little bit. I was so damn paranoid working so closely to my experimental recipe, making sure the beer was always watched always worrying about it like it was my baby and here it is. My first attempt at a quad to mimic some of the best Belgian strong darks and quads out there and it was just… perfect….not overpowering, enough sweet and complexity to make even the lightest palates enjoy. I think based on the results, I will definitely make it again in the near future. Now I know what the monks feel when being so damn dedicated. Definitely feel proud of how far I have made it with this.
Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach, KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, Temari Sabakuno from Naruto and Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill were used in this pairing as well as the label to represent the beer but also my passion for the work that I do. These girls have been my favorite characters from the different anime series that I love for the longest time going way back to the year 2002. Being a big anime fan and the shows I like, complementing the beers I love with different characters doesn’t have the same effect as the way I complement using my top favorites. But why the Belgian Quad and why them you ask? Well, it works so perfectly. The name Las Quad-tro is a play on the Belgian word for Quadrupel and Cuatro which is 4. I already have 4 of my favorite girls and an artwork I had done back in 2007 with colors of the Belgian Abbeys and monasteries, it was only a matter of time before I made the label with them four as my first Quadruple ale. They are the best and the ones I use as my mascots for my whole passion of anime and the best beers in this whole lost treasures of taste and experience. Cheers!
Rating: 5.5/5
2014 Big Hugs by Half Acre brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Dark Matter Coffee
Description:
This beer is a thug. Big and chock full of tender embrace.
A specialty brew. Grab it when you see it. 10% ABV.
==Introduction==
This is the second time I try this beer and this time it is at its freshest. Thanks to www.mybeercollectibles.com for helping me obtain this one as this one is nowhere to be found here in California. Although, from what I remember in the last time I reviewed this beer, it was awesome aged. This beer is still hard to find unless you live near Chicago or can trade for it. Either way, let us see how well the fresher one does here.
Label: https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/c74e2-bighugs2014_over-final.jpg
Aromas:
Fancy roasted coffee, espresso, Mocha, Java Kahlua, vinous grapes, dark fruits like raisins, prunes, plum hints, dark cherry, blackberry, currants, deep dark chocolate, hazelnut nectar, rock candy, Danish Cookies, oatmeal cookies, spices like ginger, herbal notes, brownies, peppercorns and tobacco.
Flavors:
Mocha, Fancy roasted coffee, espresso, vinous grape notes, java, Kahlua, caramel, vanilla, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, hazelnut nectar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, molasses, walnuts, pecan pie, toffee, brownies, rock candy, peanut butter, Danish cookies, oatmeal cookies, peppercorn, tobacco, leather, smokey hints, brownies, spicy notes, herbal hints, complex coffee notes, earthy notes, dark cherry, black berries, and prailines.
Aftertaste:
Fancy Coffee roast, spicy coffee complexity earthy notes, caramel, dark chocolate and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, Smooth and creamy mouthfeel, almost easy to drink despite the ABV, Dark like the abyss of nothingness dark body.
Overall:
Damn, every time I try a different roasty variant from different companies such as Dark Matter or Portola Labs, they always have some really complex stuff. Like the fact that the coffee world is on its own level, just mixing it with some of these beers makes them that much more complex. Also the fact that this makes this one is just that much of an exceeding expectations kind of beer is just phenomenal. I really think the fresher the beer is better as you get more of the coffee complexity than what I did with the 2 year aged one. It is rather strange but I really feel like this was the case with this one.
Anime Corner:
Ark Angel MR or Evil Mythra from Final Fantasy XI was used in this pairing as I used her in the last pairing. The original idea had to do with the whole Big Hugs. Since she is a gray cat lady with crimson eyes, it would have fit with the Mecha Hugs Label. The fact that she is an Ark Angel, she fits even more perfect with the Cat Angel of Death and the whole Big Hugs as she squeezes the orange Mythra representing the colors of the original Big Hugs cat. This beer is evil, Feline Evil.
****Update****:
Just like the surprise toy in the cereal boxes or the special prizes they have on those McDonalds cups, Peel the original label to get so much Win in this awesome label behind the Original. Yeah I really didn’t catch this until later. YAY BigHugs!! See, Ark Angel MR and regular Mithra are great friends!
Sources:
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/564b9-chp6jf56bks039cj.jpg
http://oi62.tinypic.com/29zu35v.jpg
Rating: 6.25/5
2014 Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday by The Bruery is an 18.9% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Rum 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
___
The rare allocation of this year’s Reserve Society release from the Bruery. Unfortunately, if you would like to try this variant you will need to try it at the Bruery directly before they run out as is very kimited or you may have to trade for this one. I have no idea when this version will read the public hands and the Bruery has released many many variations of their base beers through experimentation. I really would like to see variants be released, or even then, more allocations to the public and out-of-state too. Only few people get a chance to try Black Tuesday and only a few will get to try this one. I assure you, upon my many tastings, this goes beyond what is considered, a regular BEER! Now then, let us dive into the Alchemic arts which is this variant, Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday.
Aromas:
Lots of Rum oak, vanilla, tropical hints of pineapple, mango, toasted coconut, dragon fruit, melon sharpness, banana cream pie, Danish cookies, almond joy, mint chocolate chip hints, Chocolate Truffles, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, cherries, currants, blackberries, port wine, Oreo cookies and cream, dark candi sugars, rock candy, burnt sugar, anise, molasses, cotton candy, sugar cane, pumpkin spice hints, tres leches came, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate cake, brownies, wine grapes, mocha and more complex aromas.
Flavors:
Rich Banana, Rum, oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugars, rock candy, brown sugars, agave hints, toasted coconut, dark, milk German, Belgian, Bakers and Truffle chocolate, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, raspberries, currants, wine grapes, pine apple hints, candi sugars, oreo cookies and cream, almond joy, crème brulee, Irish cream, mocha coffee, java, Kahlua, molasses, anise, mint chocolate chip, flan, piña colada, tres leches cake, flan, subtle old mango, cantaloupe hints, dragon fruit hints, sugar cane hints, cotton candy, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, chocolate cake, flan, sweetened condensed milk, rocky road ice cream, graham cracker smores, marshmallow, subtle tobacco, leather hints, clove spice, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, toffee and port wine.
Aftertaste:
Banana, Rum, Oak, Bubblegum, coconut, pineapple hints, dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, hazelnut, dark cherries, marshmallow, almond joy, cantaloupe melon, mild Piña Colada, pecan pie, chocolate cake and tres leches flan. Boozy but super subtle with nothing detracting from the rich flavors. Mouthfeel is much smoother than the regular Black Tuesday but still silky smooth. Drinkability is still sipping but to a degree with a Pitch Black Hole body of upper dimensions. This one is way more drinkable than the original or at least it goes down smoother so much more danger here.
Overall:
Definitely a notch above the The Regular Black Tuesday. Even at the highest of expectations, it keeps pushing and pushing! This beer is much much more sweeter and a tad tropical. The original base beer takes over with its complexity already in tact but it generates another normally not provided by the Bourbon. This beer is just as dangerous if not a little more as the drinkability of pure sugar syrup is still insane here. Quite literally lingering in the tongue for a while which makes it more enjoyable so you don’t have to rush. I absolutely recommend this version if you are lucky enough to find this. However, even if you can get the regular Black Tuesday, do get it as if you will realize that this beer is the definitive that goes beyond the boundaries of what is considered beer and yet still is. A God amongst the Craft Beer world.
Anime Corner: tl;dr
KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, as shown in previous versions of Black Tuesday, was used this time in a more Tropical setting to go with the aspect of the rum barrels used in this pairing. The sweet tropical flavors provided from the Rum add a nice twist to the already insane Black Tuesday. More info on KOS-MOS below:
KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four 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 (the stock market) 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 (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. 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 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, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!
Sources:
http://i4.pixiv.net/img02/img/syunzone/13171923.jpg
Rating: 6/5
2014 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 19.7% ~20%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
___
What do I even say about this beer that I have not said over the many years I have reviewed this all time favorite. I think with my past review about the Black Tuesday Release Party should have been enough to disclose the greatness of this one or even the reviews of the past should have been enough. Yet, here I am again bringing another awesome review about a wonderful and favorite beer. Also, did I mention, that this year’s version is an even closer to a…20% ABV!!!!! Not to mention on a 750ml bottle that if you drink in one sitting you will surely coming a great mistake?! Well, here it is. The beer that is the strongest of the strong, the best of the best and just… well.. yeah… On to the review!!
Aromas:
Rich bourbon, oak, bananas, dark, milk German, Belgian and bakers chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut nectar, smokey notes, dark raisins, dark cherries, plums, marshmallow, mocha coffee, Kahlua, Irish cream, agave syrup, candi sugar, rock candy, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, pudding, graham cracker smores, coconut, choco flan, maple syrup, molasses, anise, port wine hints, brown sugar, leather, tobacco and mint patties.
Flavors:
Bananas, dark, milk German, Belgian and bakers chocolate, oak, leather, tobacco, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, rich dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, currants, blueberries, raspberries, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, cinnamon, coconut, marshmallow, graham cracker smores, agave syrup, molasses, maple syrup, anise, mint chocolate chip ice cream hints, rocky road ice cream, candi sugars, clove spice, port wine, mocha coffee, Kahlua, Irish cream, double chocolate cake, flan, leche nestle/sweetened condenced milk, choco flan, brown sugar, crème brulee, toffee, sugar cane and cotton candy.
Aftertaste:
Bananas, bourbon, flan, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, hazelnut, cherries, marshmallow, pecan pie, coconut, chocolate cake just lingers and lingers and lingers! Boozy but ridiculously subtle and nothing detracting from the rich complex flavor, smooth and sipping drinkability, silky and syrupy mouth feel, beyond pitch black body which the sight leads to another dimension. Highly and extremely dangerous so careful with her. Balanced to the true name of KOS-MOS/ORDER.
Overall:
Yes Yes Yes, there is nothing more to say other than if you want this beer, join the Preserve Society or simply trade. We are getting closer and closer to the day where the Bruery will make so much of this that it will be sold more widely to the public. Well, maybe, but at least the public can joint the Preservation society to get this. I don’t want to sound like an advocate for the Bruery but then again, tasting different beers and this crew who experiments so much to the point of creating super unique beers is pretty much unheard of. So yeah, get this while you still can!
Anime Corner: tl;dr
I think I did such a great job of pairing Kos-mos from the several beer reviews back that I wanted to bring the 2013 Anime corner below and elaborate on why I chose the new one picture. It obvious how Kos-mos simply just emerges from the depths of Black Void of Tuesday as she rises up stronger to show that 20%ABV (Order/KOSMOS Rising from the Chaos). As to who is Kos-mos, see below:
KOS-MOS or (Kosmos Obey Strategical Multiple Operation Systems), from the series Xenosaga is one of my Four 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 (the stock market) 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 (Another Xenosaga character) is Jesus Christ respectively. 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 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, y Kos-mos es otra chiquita mia, love ya!!
Sources:
http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs49/i/2012/337/8/9/the_firebird_suite_by_melficexd-d23or7w.jpg
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/thumbs/preview/42/420445__xenosaga_p.jpg
Happy Black Tuesday!!
To honor the 1000th post on Brewerianimelogs as well as the Bruery’s 2014 annual release of the Black Tuesday, I decided to go in depth about my experience at the Bruery on that day. This was my first time at one of the Bruery’s Black Tuesday special release parties. According to the information that was provided, this event was to have 7 2oz. Tasters (18~20% ABV a piece) with catered food made with a variety of Black Tuesday variants.
So basically food made with the Black Tuesday beer. Unfortunately, I could not invite any of my good friends to this event as it was for members only but the reason I am doing this special post is because I want to talk about the special variants that they had there and hopefully they are some that may be released in bottles someday for you to try. That or if you want to join the Bruery Reserve or Hoarders Society, maybe this may give you an incite on what it is all about besides getting special coveted beers.
By the way, while I may be a reserve society member, the Hoarders Society got to choose from 11 different beers vs. our 8 beers. Unfortunately I did not get any details on those nor tastings so I can only elaborate on what beers and food and experience I had there.
So let’s start with the first review of that night and the list of food they had. Also, I did not get a chance to take a lot of pictures and my tasting reviews are mainly best of my knowledge and what my tasting notes could provide in terms of what new flavors are provided to the base Black Tuesday. That and the fact that 2 ounces is difficult to make a good review especially since I cannot taste the beer at different temperatures. I am not a food expert but the ingredients used to make the food are provided as well as they all revolve around Black Tuesday. Also, Black Tuesday on Nitro was replaced by “Orange Is The New Black Tuesday” as the kegs were not ready.
For more information on the Base beer I recommend you read my upcoming 2014 Black Tuesday review (which I will post a link here) for further information on the base beer itself aside from what the variants had to offer. I do not post information on the other beers here such as the Rum Barrel Aged Black Tuesday, Grey Monday or Chocolate rain as I already did some great reviews you can find on my site by clicking on the tags above. Cheers and Thank you for reading this far.
===Sundae Black Tuesday===
Sundae Black Tuesday by The Bruery is a 19.7% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels with Bananas, Cherries and Vanilla beans.
Aromas:
Chocolate Sponge cake, vanilla ice cream, toffee, banana cream pie, banana split with dark cherries, dark cherry yogurt, cookies and cream, chocolate brownies hazelnut and Danish cream +Black Tuesday notes.
Flavors:
Rich Banana split notes, dark cherries, bourbon vanilla, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, flan, coconut cream, oak, dark cherry yogurt, cookies and cream, chocolate brownies, hazelnut nectar Danish cream, and pecan pie +Black Tuesday flavors.
Aftertaste:
Same as Black Tuesday but leaving some more residual sweetness.
Overall:
I think this is way better than the base beer bringing a lot richer flavors from the dessert of the cherries, bananas, cream pie, hazelnut and chocolate. This beer was the Winner of the Blending competition and definitely the winner of the variants I think so far that night. They really need to bottle this one.
Anime Corner:
Kos-mos and Mary II were used in this pairing to pair with the flavors of the original Black Tuesday (Kos-Mos) as well as the cherries and bananas (Mary II) which are represented by the colors shown.
===Pistachio Vanilla Black Tuesday===
Pistachio Vanilla Black Tuesday by The Bruery is an 18% ABV Imperial Stout Aged In Bourbon Barrels with Pistachio Nuts and Vanilla beans.
Aromas:
Pistachio notes, rich bananas, vanilla, oak, chocolate, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Pistachio ice cream, cookies and cream, whiskey and rye +Black Tuesday Aromas.
Flavors:
Pistachio ice cream hints, vanilla cream, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cookies and cream, pistachio hints, hazelnut, pecan pie, almond milk,whiskey, rye, milk chocolate and dark chocolate +Black Tuesday Flavors
Aftertaste:
Same as Black Tuesday but leaving some slightly dry but nutty sweet flavors.
Overall:
Reminding me of some of the nutty pistachio and vanilla Seme De La Vita flavors but since we are talking about Black Tuesday, its own already awesome flavors dominate and the pistachio isn’t as pronounced as Seme De La Vita but subtle. Still a great beer and would love to some day have a bottle to break it down better.
Anime Corner:
Kos-Mos and Elhaym Van Houten were used to represent Pistachio and Vanilla. While Kos-mos is already the Black Tuesday, her green colors on the head piece and blue represent the Pistachio and Elly with the cream colors and amber hair represent the vanilla and the vanilla beans.
===Double Barrel Black Tuesday===
Double Barrel Black Tuesday by The Bruery is a 19.7% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in old Bourbon Barrels and reaged in Young Whiskey Barrels.
Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, rich oak, bourbon, whiskey, mild pumpkin hints, plantain, dark chocolate, smokey notes, cinnamon, pumpkin hints, rye bread, almonds, coconut and rocky road ice cream +Black Tuesday Aromas.
Flavors:
Capirotada, Rich Dulce De leche caramel, whiskey, bourbon, oak, mild smokey notes, rich coconut, rocky road ice cream, burnt caramel, leather, tobacco, milk chocolate, almond milk plantain, rye bread, cinnamon and pumpkin spice hints +Black Tuesday Flavors
Aftertaste:
Same as Black Tuesday but leaving some more oak and caramel to the aftertaste
Overall:
This was definitely screaming more flavors of complex caramel and molasses than the previous versions I tried really accentuating a more barrel character giving those richer coconut, toffee and caramel flavors. Probably the second best of that night.
Anime Corner:
Kos-mos was used in this pairing and her dual Gatling guns of awesomeness represent the “Double Barrel” aspect of the Double Barrel Black Tuesday.
===Orange Is The New Black Tuesday===
Orange Is The New Black Tuesday by The Bruery is a 19.7% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels through a Randall with Oranges.
Aromas:
Mild notes of Oranges, chocolate, orange creamsicle, earthy bitterness, maple, tangerines, rye bread, malt balls and brown sugar +Black Tuesday Aromas.
Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, oranges, vanilla, orange creamsicle, earthy bittermess, maple, orange candy, tangerines, brown sugar and rye bread +Black Tuesday Flavors
Aftertaste:
Same as Black Tuesday but leaving some more citrus and earthy bitterness that I have not seen before.
Overall:
Probably the most different but still delicious of the pairings to the point that the introduction of orange changed the dynamic to a chocolate orange beers. Richly sweeet but bitter and mild sour oranges. Truly unique twist to the Black Tuesday already super sweet category.
Anime Corner:
Kos-mos staring into space reminded me of how in Orange Is The New Black show, prisoners look out their cells in hope of a release. That is what was represented here. The bitter oranges added to the Black Tuesday bring it to a new twist that must be contained. Very delicious for sure!
===Conclusion===
This was my very first Black Tuesday Release Party attendance and I really hope to go again next year. It was also a good opportunity to post the 1000th entry into brewerianimelogs and hope to someday make that 2000th post. Looking back at all the beers I received and tried from the Bruery and the way they treat their member, it was sure worth the pennies I scraped to get into this which at the same time has helped my site but also has helped my friend Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com.We are just a humble bunch of dudes trying to bring creative work to the already awesome phenomena of the craft beer world. Thank you once again for reading this and thank you for following me. It means a lot to me that many people can enjoy the work that I do and appreciate the beer side, the anime side or both! Cheers to you!
Rating: 6.45/5 *Sundae Black Tuesday
Rating: 6.15/5* Pistachio Vanilla Black Tuesday
Rating: 6.25/5* Double Barrel Black Tuesday
Rating: 6/5* Orange Is The New Black Tuesday
Sources:
http://www.deviantart.com/art/KOS-MOS-and-Mary-II-181601755
http://imagis.jp/pic/photo/raw/img_3204.jpg?h=198d505ab4244a5696252ff129386b58
http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs37/i/2008/265/d/7/KOS_MOS_ver_4_by_NetDead.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/e735KR9.jpg
Rating: 5.75/5
Ride The Lion by Clown Shoes brewing is an 11% ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy aged in bourbon barrels.
Label:
Descended from a notorious clan of Scottish lore, head brewer Dan Lipke channeled the Tartan tapestry encoded in his DNA to create a formidable Wee Heavy. The beer has been aged 100% in fresh bourbon barrels. Ask yourself, “Who needs to ride the lion?”
___
This beer is finally coming around this area. Clown Shoes has been making some crazy amazing beers not only in the artistic label fashion but the mind blowing flavor aspects too. Their beers are some of my favorites from the east coast. I am really glad they have been able to distribute some goodies in many places. The Wee Heavy/Scotish Ale style is one that has never let me down. I have yet to try a scotch ale that doesn’t disappoint. Therefore, I definitely look forward to this one.
Aromas:
Lots of good oaked bourbon, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, marshmallows, graham crackers, earthy and smoked peat, blue berry cheese cake, flan, port wine hints, dark fruits like raisins, currants, plums, prunes, boysenberries, black berries, grapes, anise, licorice, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice, mild coconut, butterscotch, brown sugar, cinnamon, scotch, stone fruit hints like peach and apricot.
Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Bourbon, vanilla, oak, scotch whiskey, rich earthy and smoked peat, dark fruits like cherries, raisins, currants, plums, boysenberries, blackberies, anise, licorice, port wine hints, marshmallow, rye bread, wine and cheese party, flan hints, butterscotch, cinnamon, brown sugar, musty notes, clove spice, banana flavors when it warms up, tobacco, leather notes, flan, blueberry cheesecake, stone fruit peaches, apricots and lychee.
Aftertaste:
Smokey and earthy peat, rye bread, oak, bourbon, caramel, vanilla, dark fruit, tobacco and leather notes. Slight alcohol burn in the taste but nothing detracting from the flavor, smooth drinkability despite the ABV, medium mouth feel and medium to full body.
Overall:
Definitely exceeding expectations for sure. This beer reminds me more of how Stone Brewing does Bourbon Barrel aging with the whole wine and cheese party thing going on. Basically, that is the way I describe oak wine like and earthy cheese flavor. Definitely not in a bad way but I guess the way some beers pair great with certain cheeses, that is all. The beer has a lot of great complex flavors going on here. I would definitely recommend getting this one. Give it a shot, there really isn’t that many wee heavies out there and this one is bourbon barrel aged. Yes it works!
Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber and Arthur The Lion from Fate/Stay Night/Hollow Ataraxia was used in this pairing not just to pair the label with the lion and the warrior girl but the aspects of the lion is what not just represents awesomeness but the bourbon barrel aging itself. As you can see, if Saber is a bad ass Wee Heavy by herself, then the lion brings forth her ultimate strength which brings out the complexities of her. They represent the dark fruits and cherry notes as well as the other complex flavors. Ride the Lion is synonymous with how smooth both of them work together and go down damn well despite their united strength!
Sources:
http://konachan.com/post/show/8124
Rating: 5/5
The Reverend by Avery Brewing is a 10% ABV Belgian Quadrupel
Label:
The Holy Trinity of Ales
The reverend is a divinely complex and beautifully layered creation with hints of dark cherries, currants, and molasses, complimented by an underlying spiciness and a sinfully smooth 10% ALC/VOL.
Brewed with Rocky Mountain Water, Malted Barley. Imported Belgian Specialty malted barley, dark Belgian candy sugar, hops and yeast.
___
So I finally promised myself to get a bottle of this as when I first tried it at Uncle Henry’s earlier in the year, I said I would. So, even after passing it up several times for other beers, I finally got it to bring it forward for a review here at the site. This is a great beer that is served year round. While I personally think, leave it to Belgium, this one is on top of the greatest representatives of the Belgian Quad Style. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, rich dark cherries, figs, plums, currants, belgian candy sugar, phenolic notes, clove spice, banana hints, almonds, chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, hints of hazelnut, rich rye, citrus, tobacco hints, molasses and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Lots of dark fruits, raisins, figs, currants, rich dark cherries, plums, citrus, cinnamon, clove spice, rye bread, vanilla caramel, oats, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, Belgian candy sugar, Rock candy sugar, bananas, phenolic yeast, hazelnut, pecan notes, honey, tobacco hints, almonds, hints of chocolate, apples, toffee, grapes and raisin bread pudding.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit, earthy spice, dulce de leche, almond, pecan, rye bread, earthy and clove spice notes.
Alcohol sweetness in the taste mainly but nothing detracting from the overall beer. Smooth and a bit syrupy mouth feel even for a sipping drink character with a medium to full body on an dark amber brown color. Dangerous beer.
Overall:
A perfect quad. This beer is a major reminiscent to the Surly Seviin. Definitely a lot of Belgian Candy sugar forward, with the dark fruits and rye bread mixing in but the bitterness comes from a mix of earthy and somewhat subtly citrusy notes. This quad is very enjoyable and it is a year round serving by Avery. I would definitely recommend this one for a try for sure.
Anime Corner:
Original character by jname was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the reverend. In the past, quads have always been paired with the like colors of dark fruits whether reds, purples or pinks. The power she holds in her hands is the power of the dark fruit reverend. Her dress signifies the complex Belgian flavors as well as rich candy sugars and caramels. The background is close to those of the Abbeys of Belgium paying a special tribute like that of the label, She is the Reverend possessing the power of God and will to do good in the beer world. Blessed be thy beers!
Rating: 5/5
Raven’s Eye (New Label) by Eel River Brewing is a 9.5% ABV Organic Russian Imperial Stout.
Label:
A bold creamy Stout with hints of dark chocolate and espresso balanced by an aroma reminiscent of chocolate, molasses, and plums.
If you think Raven’s Eye Stout is good now, we recommend aging it. Its characteristics become more complex over time, meaning it only gets better with age.
___
Raven’s Eye Stout has a special place in my heart next to Black Xantus. Back in 2010, when I started to try some craft beers and started to get appreciation for labels, I decided to get this one along with some other beers I had not tried before. This stout stuck out to me even before I started trying the Lost Abbey stuff back then. After several times of trying it, I realize why it was the cousin of the Black Xantus. IT was because while it was not bourbon barrel aged like that one was, it offered similar flavors of the Russian Imperial Stout but with dark fruit flavors. I grew very fond of this one. While it is not sold as often as I like, it is a treat to find it. I picked this one up at Ramirez Liquor when I saw the new label finally came out. So definitely I said to myself, I have to bring this one back! So here it is, once again with the new label. Cheers!
Previous 2012 Review:
https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2013/09/12/ravens-eye-redux-by-eel-river-brewing/
Aromas:
Roasted Coffee, Dark Chocolate, Mocha, dark fruits, pecans, hazelnut nectar, rich currants, dark cherry, caramel, anise, earthy roasted notes, molasses, brown sugar and hints vanilla.
Flavors:
Rich dark fruits like raisins, currants, dark cherry, mocha, coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, pecans, Irish cream, bakers chocolate, fudge cake, molasses, anise, hints of oak, earthy roasted notes, sweet toffee, marshmallow smores and brown sugar.
Aftertaste:
Roasted coffee bitterness, dark fruits, dark chocolate, vanilla, caramel and earthy hints. No alcohol in the taste, moderate to sipping drinkability, creamy mouth feel but smooth and full pitch black body.
Overall:
Still the greatly awesome beer that I remember. Definitely more dark fruit forward this time around with a good balance. The same beer I had since 2011 still great and in some cases better than the previous times I tried it. The dessert beer next to the Black Xantus and not so barrel aged but yet still up there with great complex flavors for a Russian Stout.
Anime Corner:
Emeralda Kasim from Xenogears was used in this pairing as I used her in many of the Raven’s eye pairing in the past. Her colors seemed to work well with the label of the beer and the green organic aspect of the beer. The colors of her were representative of the taste in terms of the chocolate flavors and more. While her eyes are like the sun and hazel, they show a glimmer of crimson like the eye of the raven as well. She is this beer and the solitude that it represents. Forevermore….
Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/334009#full
http://www.zerochan.net/1143296#full
Rating: 5.75/5
Soroboruo by The Bruery is a 12% ABV Sour Wee Heavy aged in Scotch and Bourbon barrels with heather flowers.
Label:
WEE SOUR
Rich malt, sour funk, notes of oak and a floral balance. Unlike any Wee Heavy you’ve ever had.
Soroboruo is a backwards take on a Scotch Ale. Typically known for big toffee-like malt and subdued yeast flavors. Soroboruo allows our wild yeast and bacteria to shine full-heartedly, adding a delightful tartness, balanced by the soft floral notes of the heather flowers. Soroboruo is best enjoyed fresh, but may pleasantly evolve over time if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place.
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Released by the Bruery as part of their Reserve Society releases. This beer was a surprise since it was one that was not listed and was one that was listed shortly after their release of Sucre. If you want to get your hands on this one, you may have to go ahead and trade for it. Unless the Bruery makes it available for release to the masses. I have never had a Sour Wee Heavy before and Wee Heavy Scottish ales are always awesome.
Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, proliferation of Sour wine grapes, funky musk, coconut, marshmallows, butterscotch, toffee, scotch whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, coconut hints, leather, herbs, hibiscus flowers, honey, currants, smoked peat, tart cranberries, cherries, raspberries, chocolate notes, port wine, brown sugar, maple bar and black berry yogurt.
Flavors:
Sour funk notes, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, wine grapes, funky notes, scotch whiskey, bourbon, wine grapes, tart cranberries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, butterscotch, leather, marshmallows, coconut, honey, currants, smoked peat, flowers, hibiscus, dark chocolate, herbs, port wine, maple, black berry cheese cake, berry yogurt, hazelnut, pecan pie hints, citrus and molasses.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit raisins, tart wine grapes and cranberries, toffee, rich caramel, vanilla, oak, molasses and earthy notes. Hints of alcohol in the taste but I think it is mainly the whiskey and wine like characters. A sipping beer for sure with a medium body.
Overall:
Let his one warm up, the flowers, scotch, bourbon and Wee Heavy aspect take over the tart sourness to make it awesomely balanced. This beer is quite the different one. I have never had a Wee Heavy and I really thought this one deserved some major credit. It is not all sour, you can tell there is a barrel aged wee heavy there. The sourness is only there enough to remind you that this beer is kind of evil but not. Overall delicious and recommended!
Anime Corner:
Reiko Mikami from the Ghost Sweeper Mikami Series was used in this beer to maintain the aspect of the beer that is still sacred, which is the Wee Heavy aspect you see, Mikami is a paranormal investigator and the demon Soroboruo is a Wee Heavy that went backwards on its style. It was possessed by wild yeast and is not longer the same. In other words tainted by evil. One can honestly say that maybe in truth, Soroboruo is a reflection of Reiko Mikami herself. While she fights her own inner demons. Like the fact that she is money hungry…lol! Regardless though, Reiko is one bad ass chick that no one fucks with and a bad ass Ghost Buster/Sweeper. Mikami is one of my first Anime favorite characters since back in the 90’s, so to bring her forth into this beer was a delicious move. She may seem a little sour on the outside but inside, she is all sweet and caring. The colors of the label and the flowers fit her perfectly. Let’s be honest too, Soroboruo looks like a Talisman and somewhat paranormal. That and the purple of her dress being the dark fruit aspect and the ABV her passion she has for what she does in her life.
Rating: 5.75/5
2012 Barrel Aged Grand Cru by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale aged in Red Wine Barrels.
Label:
This Belgian-Style Ale has been matured in American and French Oak Barrels for a year to add layers of complexity to its rich flavor profile of dark fruit and Belgian caramel malts. The oak and red wine flavors by the barrel-aging process blend seamlessly with subtle hints of raisin, plum, and bitter-sweet chocolate from the beer. Enjoy now or continue to age in a cool, dark place. Serve in a goblet at 50-55%
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Obtained this one through a donation to the site. This is the 3rd Barrel-aged beer I try from Alesmith, being that the best one was the Kopi Luwak Bourbon Speedway Stout. A chance to try one of my favorite beers from them in barrel aged form and bring it forth to you guys is an honor. Hopefully it is good enough for a recommendation, although I can already tell you, it will be since I loved the regular grand cru.
Aromas:
Very rich red wine grapes, chardonnay, port wine, merlot, oak, dark fruits like figs, raisins, prunes, plums, currants, cherries, raspberries, cranberries, Dulce de leche caramel, dates, leather notes, vanilla, bourbon hints, milk chocolate, coconut, pecan and hazelnut pie, cloves, bananas in caramel, toffee, butterscotch, candi sugars, brown sugar, peaches, apples and apricots.
Flavors:
Lots of dark fruits like figs, prunes, raisins, plums, currants, raspberries, cherries, cranberries, dulce de leche caramel, flan, brown sugar, port wine, red wine, merlot, leather, milk chocolate hints, bananas, clove spice, vanilla, bourbon like notes, coconut, oak , pecan pie, hazelnut cream, butterscotch, rye bread, rock candy, candi sugar, peaches, pears, apples, apricots, good wine and cheese party and lychee.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruits, caramel, wine notes, oak, tart fruits and slight buttery rye. No alcohol in the taste yet has a smooth character which is kind of dangerous as I can easily try to finish such a good thing in one sittings. Savor her as much as you, she will love you for it or feel the full wrath.
Overall:
Exceeding the expectations of its predecessor, the Alesmith Grand Cru, providing even richer fruitier flavors along with more caramel and candi sugars. I already loved their Grand Cru, but this is taking it to a whole new level with the oak wine characteristics that already bring something very interesting to the table. Especially since most Grand Crus already have an aspect of wine aging. This is not sour in any way and really is an incredible beer.
Anime Corner:
Milla Maxwell is back from the original review to show case the power of the beer in a form of complex flavor and strength animated by her ultimate powers. The fire, earth, water and air elements are a way to artistically show the improvement in the variety of flavors that this beer has. Especially after it aged for 2 years. In the picture where the guy tries to break her out shows that the beer has matured well and is ready to take on. Either that or he just wants to get her now. Regardless, she is damn stronger, maybe not ABV wise, but flavor wise for sure. Any other pairing ideas you can see in these pictures?
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.
Rating: 5/5
Shegöat by the Bruery is an 8.7% ABV Weizenbock.
Label:
All The Wins
We recently discovered this original home brew recipe of Patrick’s with which he won Best of Show awards. Without changing it much, we recreated it for you to enjoy today. Rich, malty and perfect for the winter months.
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Got this one along with the Preservation Society release. It will be hitting only local distribution in California, however, you can still get it at www.craftbeerkings.com . I have no idea what a Shegöat is, but all I could find is information on a female goat. According to Google, this is all I got: “One of the branches of augury in ancient Rome dealt especially with the signs which might be derived from animals; and it was believed that if a she-goat crossed the path of a man who was stepping out of his house it was a good omen, and he might proceed on his way rejoicing.” Anyway, on to the review.
Aromas:
Rich caramel, banana bread, Dark fruits, cloves, coriander, citrus, earthy hop notes, caramel, rye, cinnamon and nutmeg.
Flavors:
Rich Banana bread, Plantains, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like raisins, plums, citrus, coriander, cloves, raisin bread pudding, pecans, almonds, earthy hop notes, pineapple juice, tart cherry, licorice notes, bubble gum, toasted rye bread, cinnamon notes and honey.
Aftertaste:
Banana bread, cloves, caramel, dark fruit notes, spices and earthy bitterness lingers. Easy to medium drinkability. Some very minor alcohol in the taste but clears up as the beer gets warmer, so let it warm up
Overall:
The beer is fantastic! If the Bruery ever made a German beer that is awesome it be like this. The beer reminds of my days with Franziskaner Dunkelweiss. One of the best banana German beers. Although, the Weizenbock is the stronger version of a Dunkelweisse, it its just epic win. That is why the label says all the wins. If you like German beers, you will probably love this one, I sure did.
Anime Corner:
I chose Asmodeus from the Seven Deadly Sins series to represent the She-Goat. I could not find the true meaning of the word Shegöat so I found this one. She is part of the 7 demons of sin who represents Lust and exposes her victims in such fashion as well. She looks like a goat in the pictures but she also represents the banana flavors of the beer or the banana in the banana split she is on. Since the beer is fruity tasting, the pictures compliment it perfectly. Shegoat really is tantalizing, isn’t she?
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
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.
Rating: 6/5*
Sede Vacante Ale by The Lost Abbey is 15% ABV American Strong Ale aged in Cognac and Brandy Barrels
Label:
===Nomen.====
…………………………………………..
Eligo in Surnum Ponticem R D
meum D Card, Mattei
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===Signa.===
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION(ratebeer.com)
Sede Vacante is a blend of Barleywine aged in Cognac barrels and Brandy barrel-aged Angel’s Share and at packaging came in at 15% abv. A contemplative beer with substantial depth, Sede Vacante imparts tones of dark fruit and vanilla, with a warming finish from the Cognac. The strongest beer to emerge from The Lost Abbey, portions of the beer spent almost 5 years in a barrel. Sede Vacante can be enjoyed immediately or cellared till the next Papal Conclave, however long that may be.
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Sede Vacante or “The Vacant Holy See” is used in canon law of the catholic church when the Holy See where the Pope sits is vacant. As of February 28, 2013, pope Benedict XVI had retired from being the pope. There was a period of 13 days that passed until the new pope was chose which was pope Francis. In commemoration of the election, The Lost Abbey had released this beer. This is possibly the strongest Alcohol by Volume ale released by The Lost Abbey to date. I never got around to get this beer until recently. 8 months later, now we will see what this is all about.
Aromas are of dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits, raisins, plums, dates, figs, dark cherries, blue berries, chocolate, bourbon, port wine, communion wine, vanilla, cognac, oak, brandy,
The flavors are of grapes, wine, rich dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, brandy, cognac, chocolate, dark cherries, port wine, rich pecan pie, hazel nuts, walnuts, brown sugar, flan, dark fruits, rich raisins, plums dates, figs, coconut, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, rocky road ice cream notes, anise, licorice, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate fudge, maple syrup, and chocolate wine syrup
The aftertaste is full of dark fruit, caramel, cognac, brandy and like a chocolate wine. This is sipper of a beer but something about it makes it, quite smooth. Very interesting. Take your time with this one. Alcohol present, yet not detracting from all the rich flavors at all. Very mellow indeed. By the way, no carbonation!!
*Overall this was a heavenly, rich, delicious, and awesome beer. A beer that ascends into something that is powerful. This beer can be aged for several years. Possibly even a decade or way longer. The Lost Abbey has been one of my favorite breweries out there making some awesome Belgian beers. This one is a definite representative of the church and all that is holy. For such a sweet, boozy but very smooth beer, I cannot help myself but feel that this one definitely exceeds my expectations for the Barleywine category. It is so damn close to a quadruple aged in bourbon barrels it ain’t even funny. Let’s just say it feels like mixing St. Bernardus abt 12 with Communion Wine and holy water. Thou art Blessed. Loving this one for sure and a highly recommend to those who seek this Vacant Holy See, Amen.
Rating: 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.
Rating: 5/5
Raven’s Eye (Redux) by Eel River Brewing is a 9.5% ABV Organic Russian Imperial Stout
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
A rich roasty brew with a deep “espresso” character. Originally brewed for the Imperial Court in Russia, this stout is a warm festive drink made with the cold Russian Winters in mind. This complex stout is brewed with a combination of nine domestic and imported malts. Only the finest Pacific Northwest hops are used to provide the perfect balance in our award winning beer.
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I have reviewed this beer in the past and have tried this atleast several times. To me, this was, and will always be, Black Xantus Evil cousin. I decided to another review before the release of the new label (http://www.eelriverbrewing.com/sites/eelriverbrewing.com/files/ravens_0.jpg). This is the same beer that I enjoy so long ago when I first started trying different beers and it has made a nice comeback this year.
Aromas roasted coffee, mocha, dark chocolate, pecans, hazelnut nectar, bits of dark fruits like currants, raisins, caramel, licorice, earthy hops, brown sugar and molasses
The flavors are of rich sweet Irish cream like coffee, hazelnut nectar, mocha, rich currants, raisins, dark cherries, pecans, walnuts, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, molasses, slight licorice notes, slight oak flavors, vanilla, caramel, chocolate fudge brownies with caramel on top, pecans, cherry and raisin syrup, earthy hop bitterness near the end and sweet toffee.
The aftertaste leaves stronger with coffee, chocolate and dark fruit with a slight bitterness at the end. This beer is moderate to sip drinkability, heavy but smooth. Deliciously balanced. No alcohol presence anywhere
Overall, I don’t have to say it, this is a great beer. One of my old time favorites and still around after 2 years. It is one of those over looked beers that really should not be. Truly one of the best dessert beers our there. It will always be the cousin of the Black Xantus, the unbarrel aged epic lore. Feels like visiting and old relative
2011 Review: (https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/20/ravens-eye-imperial-stout-by-eel-river/)
Black Xantus cousin…Second time trying the Raven’s Eye Imperial stout by Eel River brewing. One of the very few breweries who have the USDA Certified Organic Trademark. Also one of the best Organics I have ever tried. How is this the Black Xantus cousin (Aside from being another dark bird)? or in a sense, why does it seem similar at least to me? Well this stout is a Coffee dominant chocolatey stout just like it. However, other than being less strong, there are more other flavors that Black Xantus does not have that are actually worth trying. There are flavors of Hazel nut, mocha, bread, dark fruits, caramel, milk texture, and some minor hoppy taste. Will it be good for you to try?? Well only if your into stouts and sweet bitter coffee ones. I sure enjoyed it myself that I had to do a ROUND2 review as the last time I tried it was sometimes last year. Will you actually find something delicious in this beer or will you say to this …Nevermore!! >:)..You be the judge. It is a California brew found at Bevmo
Rating: 4.65/5
Humdinger Series Belgo Sutra by Magic Hat Brewing is an 8.2% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with Figs and Dates
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION (Ratebeer.com)
A complex Belgian Strong Ale brewed with figs, dates, and dark candi sugar. Throw out your inhibitions and lose yourself in intense pleasure.
Official ddescriptionmagichat.com/elixirs/belgosutra)
Beer has never known such sensuality as with Belgo Sutra. Brewed with six different malts and fermented over figs and dates, this Belgian-Style Dark Ale offers a deep complexity that caresses the palate to a scream-inducing climax.
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Despite the fact that the ratings on the websites are moderate to good about this beer, I still wanted to seek out for 2 reasons. Great label art but also, I am a fan of Belgian Dark Ales. Also, this beer is mainly sold in the east coast so it was no easy task to find. I had to resort to online sources.
Aromas are of dark fruits like raisins, plums, caramel, chocolate notes, cherry, earthy spices, bread, candi sugar, figs, dates, cinnamon, brown sugar, cloves and banana notes.
The flavors are of figs, and dates, plum notes, raisins, candi sugar, walnuts, maple, cinnamon, clove spice, rye bread, pears, apricots, molasses, chocolate notes, bananas, caramel, cinnamon, brown sugar, cloves, lemon meringue and slight cherry notes.
The after taste stays figgy, nutty, notes of residual raisin and caramel notes. Alcohol seems to be a little present in the fragrance but not as much in the taste.
Overall the beer is very good. A very nice strong dark ale close to a quad even, which I think should be considered a quad. I does a very good job in a lot of aspects, but you can definitely find way better Belgian strong darks out there that are more common. Not that this should be passed up though. If you can find it, get it as it is pretty limited and worthy of taste merit.
Rating: 5/5
Tetravis (Barrel Room Collection) by Samuel Adams is a 10.2% ABV Belgian Quadruple (Quad) Aged in Oak Barrels with Rich notes of Currants, Raisins and Clove
Label:
Bold & rich, this enveloping quad builds its force and character through interlacing layers of flavor.
Its deep complexity begins with a molasses sweetness with notes of dark fruits like raisin and fig and develop further with an undercurrent of tart spice from its distinctive Belgian yeast for a truly transfixing brew.
One of our brewers’ favorite places to experiment is in the barrel room at our Boston Brewery. It’s here that each of our Samuel Adams Barrel Room Collection brews was born.
To lean more about this unique set of ales visit SamuelAdams.com
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Been looking for this quad all year long to go with my last review, the Belgian Thirteenth Hour Stout. I am a big fan of quadruples, so a beer made by Sam Adams I definitely could not pass up. Especially a Barrel Aged one.
Aromas start off with nice dulce de leche caramel notes, vanilla, apricot, plums, raisin bread pudding, brown sugar, candi sugars, toffee, slight oak notes, banana, currants, some clove notes, molasses and figs.
The flavors are where it’s at. Reminiscent of Trois Pistoles, rich dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, port wine, chocolate notes, dates, molasses, rum notes, cola notes, pecans, bananas, cloves, phenols, oak wood notes, apricots, pears, brown sugar and cinnamon.
At 10.2% No alcohol present in the taste. Aftertaste ends a little dry with some notes of the raisins and caramel making you want to drink more, even if it is a sipper.
Overall I definitely enjoyed this one. The Barrel room series so far has been nothing but splendid stuff. Something about this beer really reminds me of a St. Bernardus and Trois Pistoles hybrid. Definitely more Trois Pistoles. Maybe Sam Adams and Unibroue use similar Belgian yeast?? Regardless, this is fantastic stuff. Belgian beer lovers may enjoy this one for sure. Even if I can find Trois Pistoles easier, this is definitely an awesome beer.
Rating: 5.15/5
Grand Gru by Abbaye-Abbey du Val-Dieu is a 10.5% Belgian Strong Dark Ale/Quadruple
Label:
This authentic Abbey ale is based on the recipe perfected centuries ago by the monks of Abbey du Val-Dieu.
Anno 1216
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While browsing for grand crews at the store near my house, I was looking for a grand cru beer to try as this type of beer has become a favorite of mine (like Belgian quad or strong dark weren’t already lol) The person at the tells me to try this one as it is lower in prices than even Alesmith Grand Cru. So I go with it as it is authentic Belgian stuff. Hell yeah!! Now the interesting thing is, many site cannot compare this as a quad or a Belgian Strong Dark Ale, I’ll say it is both. Grand cru is already kind of borderline anyway in terms of beer styles.
Aromas were rich in dark fruits like plums, raisins, figs, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate notes, grapes, pears, oak, earthy spices and blackberry preserves
The flavors are much better than the aroma. Very rich raisins covered in dulce de leche caramel, raisin bread pudding, plums, pears, dates, figs, sweet bread, butterscotch, flan, cinnamon, grapes, cherries, blackberry preserves, peppery notes, loads of candi sugar, pilloncillo sugar cone, brown sugar and rye bread. As the beer warms up, you get more complex flavors of pecan pie, hazelnut and banana which is definitely awesome.
The aftertaste continues with raisin and caramel sweetness and leaves an nice dark fruit and pecan taste in the palate. Full to medium body yet, the flavors cover up the alcohol a lot to the point where it is quite drinkable. I almost want to finish the whole bottle as it is is damn good.
Over all, to me knowing it is an Abbey Ale (I love authentic Abbey and Trappist ales) and the fact that it hits it home with the caramel and the raisins, it is a phenomenal beer. May not be to the Alesmith in terms of complexity or even as buttery raspberry preserve on toast as the Avery beast, but it still hits those Belgian lover spots in my heart reminding me of the St. Bernardus. In fact, I may actually get this over other grand crus. Especially since it is cheaper in price and easier to find. The best part is that it is a complex Belgian so this actually starts to transform in flavors as it warms up, this is why I gave it a higher rating.
Rating: 5.2/5
Big Hugs 2011 edition by Half Acre Brewing and Dark Matter Coffee Company is a 10%ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Dark Matter Coffee
Description:
This beer is a thug. Big and chock full of tender embrace.
A specialty brew. Grab it when you see it. 10% ABV.
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Hard to find, but aged for 2 years, this is Big Hugs. Looks like a nice kitty that wants to give a loving Christmas embrace, but in reality, it’s intentions are difficult to tell. Many have lost and have fallen victims to it’s temptations (either willfully or by bloody force). Opening this beer, it definitely smelled way different than other stouts to begin with.
First thing I noticed in the aromas were that there was a good amount of dark fruits and molasses. The beer has developed nicely. Above it are the rich cola like aromas followed by super dark chocolate, fancy coffee, a peppery and spicy aroma, possibly nutmeg notes, vanilla, caramel, toffee, brownie and hazelnuts
The flavors are like a rich fancy coffee with spices, Kahlua notes, vanilla, hazelnut, bakers and dark chocolate, hazelnut, raisins, molasses, walnuts, toffee, brownies and spices but not heat wise, definitely something else (must be the fancy coffee)
The aftertaste is roasty, semi sweet dark chocolate, spicy and a touch boozy. ABV has probably increased to a 11% or 12%. The mouth-feel is moderately syrupy so this one is definitely a sipper.
Overall, age has done this one wonders. Either that or the beer has always tasted this nice. Regardless, it was definitely interesting, different and kinda creepy.
Rating: 5/5
Holy Sheet Heavy Seas Uncharted Series 2013 by Clipper City Brewing is a 9% ABV Belgian Abbey Dubbel aged in Brady Barrels
Label:
Rich, complex and unique. Abbey style ales are transcendent, and ours stands proudly in the ranks. Aged in brandy barrels, Holy Sheet is a mahogany ale brewed with Belgian Abbey yeast, candi sucre, and unique crystal malts. Rounded, spicy caramel flavors mixed with vinous notes and oak overtones, this ale pairs well with quiet contemplation…
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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Been looking for this beer since I first heard of it. It was not an easy find at all since many of the Heave Seas Beers aren’t normally sold around in the west coast. Thank goodness for online stores.
Aromas are of dark fruits and caramel like cherries, raisins, figs, dates, grapes, preserves, some vanilla and toffee notes, apple, white wine notes, banana, coconut, brandy, oak, rye and biscuit bread.
Flavors are of coconut, dark cherry preserves, rich dulce de leche caramel spread on raisin bread pudding, biscuit, vanilla, toffee, raisins, dates, figs, oak, brandy, candi sugars, banana phenolic notes, marshmallows, grapes, minor white wine notes and chocolate on rye bread
The aftertaste leave sweet and slightly boozy but not too boozy. This works very well as the alcohol is hardly present overall and is very pleasant. This makes it quite the moderately drinkable beer at that.
Overall Holy Shit I mean Sheet is very fucking delicious. This is my second Heavy Seas beer and already I love the beers I have reviewed so far. Definitely recommended for those that love Barrel Aged beers but also Belgian beers.
Rating: 4.5/5
Stillwater Artisanal Sensory Series v.2 – Small Black is a 5% ABV Black Saison brewed in collaboration with the band Small Black and Stillwater Artisanal.
Label:
welcome to the sensory series
The Stillwater Sensory Series is a collaboration between Stillwater Artisanal and singular musical artists. In the second volume, Stillwater works with Small Black to make an ale based on an interpretation of their song, “Breathless” On the bottle itself, a QR code links to this exclusive performance of the song. Ultimately, this is a true artistic collaboration that aims to create a full sensory experience – sound, sight, smell, touch, and taste.
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Aromas are of roasty malts, dark fruits, wheat, peppercorns, earthy hops and spices, biscuit bread, light honey, citrus, coriander spice and slight coffee notes.
The Flavors are of wheat, slight clovey spiciness, roasted barley, peppercorns, dark fruit notes, slight dark chocolate, floral notes, earthy hops, citrus, coriander spice, smokey notes, notes of molasses and slight hazelnut
The aftertaste and slighly sweet and smokey with that nice bready taste provided by many of the awesome Stillwater ArtisanalAles. Easy to drink at a low ABV
Overall, you may get away with passing on this, but if you do pick it up, you will try this one and it will be like trying a light Folklore or similar to it. The smokey character is only minor and not overwhelming which lets a lot of the other sweeter and floral flavors through
While you watch the video: http://www.stillwatersensory.com/ you get sense of what it is about. It is pretty good stuff. The track they used for this beer, “Breathless” is freaking awesome too.
Rating: 4.9/5
La Trappe Bockbier by Bierbrouwerij De Koningshoeven is a 7% ABV Trappist Bock
Label:
La Trappe Bockbier is a unique seasonal product, available from autumn onwards. the only Trappist bock and what is more, one that continues to ferment in the bottle. A beautiful deep red colour with a light, bitter aftertaste.
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It has been a very long time since I reviewed a beer from La Trappe. The last one I reviewed was their quadruple which was amazing. La Trappe being one of the 8 registered Trappist breweries in the world makes simply exquisite beers. According to Beer advocate, this is the best beer in its style. The Bock style was brewed in German Monasteries to pass the lenten fasts but some believe it was brewed during the month of Capricorn and so many Bock styles always have the goat association with it. It was used as a symbol of better times going from winters into the spring.
Aromas are of figs, raisins, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, hazelnuts, chocolate, brown sugar and rye bread.
Holy crap, you the flavors are borderline quad but with rich German malt aspects. Dark fruits like raisins, dates, dulce de leche caramel, rich toffee, banana, clove spice along with rye, pecans, hazelnut nectar, chocolate, raspberries, apricot, cinnamon and brown sugar.
This goes down very well. The mouth feel is rich even for a 7% ABV. Lots of malty sweetness, toffee and caramel in the aftertaste. This bock is very good. I think I liked it because of it s quad like elements. It is made by Trappist so you definitely cannot go wrong with this one. All I have to do now is find a 750ml of this.
Rating: 7/5* This is quite ridiculous of a beer which exceeds expectations, maybe way too much.
Melange 3 by The Bruery is a 15.5% ABV Barrel-Aged Blended Ale Dark & Delicious (Black & Tan). Basically, it is a fusion ale of Black Tuesday, White Oak wheat wine and Papier Old Ale.
Label:
A unique blend of Black Tuesday, White Oak Sap, and our Anniversary ales. Extended barrel aging lends flavors of vanilla, spice, and rich caramel.
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If you haven’t heard about this beer, go get it now before it is gone. I kid you not. I didn’t have to be part of their preserve, reserve, or even hoarders society. Either that, or the Bruery was graceful enough to share this magnificent brew. If you live in California, GO NOW!!!…. get this beer
I already specified the greatness that was Black Tuesday and even the greatness that was their Anniversary Ale Fruet and basically White Chocolate was their White Oak wheat wine with cocoa nibs so essentially what you have here is an ale that combines the best of 3 of my most hard to find beers that blew me away all in a single blend. In fact, this was one of those kick the bucket beers that is a favorite of Patrick Rue, founder of the The Bruery. I wouldn’t be this exited about a beer if I didn’t realized that I was able to get my hands on this so easy. I still couldn’t believe it when I ordered it on the site. Well anyways, enough rambling. On to the Review.
The aromas are pretty much of the charts. Ill try to sum up the complexity of this beer as best I can since the flavors of this beer are ridiculously rich. Yes another “Diabetes in a bottle” beer. Fragrances of Hazelnut, rich dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sweet chocolate, bananas, marshmallows, rocky road ice cream, rich toasted coconut, bourbon, vanilla, dark fruits, raisins, flan, crème brulee, wheat, leche nestle and just a lot of sugar.
The flavors are of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sweet chocolate, Kahlua, white chocolate, wine grapes, chocolate covered cherries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla beans, bourbon oak, wheat, coriander, honey, wine grapes, apples, Port wine, flan, choco flan, chocolate cake, cake batter, toffee, brown sugar, raisins, licorice, marshmallows, smores, graham crakers, cherry coke, Belgian bread, biscuits and more intense sugary and heavenly bliss….over 9000.
Talk about a ridiculously smooth beer. This is very smooth, mellow to the point where you cannot detect the alcohol. This beer is like combining Trois Pistoles, St. Bernardus 12, Three Philosophers, Black Xantus and Barrel aging all that and it comes out like a drink from the 4th dimension, maybe higher. My god, if my taste buds could bleed, they would bleed simply because the beer has taken me to the upper echelons of craft beer Nirvana. This is ridiculous. If I would drink this beer everyday I would probably never try anything else. However, because I finally tried this, I can go in peace. It is hard to believe but this is definitely a bucket list beer without a doubt. People have to try this out and the best part, you don’t have to stay and camp out for the night to get a bottle of this. Get it while it last and it is no longer offered to the public. I got this bottle without hesitation. I almost thought they would second guess my orders since I was not a preserve or reserve or craft whore society member. I got this straight from the source and I was surprised it was sent. This beer is sold or traded after market so if you are not lucky to be able to find this beer but are able to be have it shipped and bought online, I recommend this one full heartedly. Bull shit aside, This beer is worth every penny.
Rating: 6/5 *Very few make it this far to show my top favorites of all time.
Black Tuesday (2012 edition) by The Bruery is a 19.2%ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels. Very Huge beer. Right next to Chocolate Rain, considered to be one of the few most sought after, world class beers. This is the second time I get a chance to try. There might not be more to say about this beer that has not already been said in my previous posts. Regardless I will break it down as this one has not been aging for too long (about half a year in the bottle + the amount they cellared in the barrels)
Label:
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
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One of the things that strike me the most about this beer, just like Chocolate Rain, is that it’s intensity when it comes to chocolate is insane. This version’s ABV is much higher than the last time I tried the beer and I am sure it won’t change the rating at all. Also, this one’ is more focused bourbon to go with that awesome chocolate intensity. In fact, some of the fragrances are pretty serious. Black Tuesday introduces aromas rich banana, 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. The flavors boozy for sure, but very smooth a very delicious. The flavors are what gives this beer magic. Just like Dark Lord Imperial stout but more just smoother and something about it that is up there so awesome. These flavors include, sweet, dark, milk chocolate, bourbon, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, 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. Like other high ABV beers, this one should be taken with caution. It is extremely good, but sip carefully. Not to be consumed in one sitting. This version of Black Tuesday is on par with the Chocolate Rain high ABV (about .03%less) and some points below Grey Monday. One of my most top favorite beers along with Grey Monday, Chocolate Rain and White Chocolate. While these may be my rarest of favorites, my most common all time favorites will still be St. Bernardus 12 and Trois Pistoles. There are several ways to get Black Tuesday, although it is quite the hassle but so damn worth it. This is probably the last time I get it since it is very rare unless I get one to let sit for several years or one is given to me or served somewhere. Should definitely be on some of the craft beer bucket lists.
2010 Version Review: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/31/black-tuesday-by-the-bruery/
Rating: 5/5
Quandary by River North Brewing is a 9.6%ABV Quadrupel Ale
Label:
A dark Belgian-style ale you can’t quite put your finger on. Neirther wholly traditional nor modern. Familiar, but unidentifiably unique. An ale to slowly ponder, seldom decipher, yet always enjoy.
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This beer’s name is surrounded in perplexity. First, there was no head nor lacing. At 9.6% I was concerned but at the same time intrigued as I thought that maybe this beer is strong but maybe it may hide the alcohol, or it may not. The aromas were nice of the typical quads I love. Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits, cherries, toffee, banana bread, pecans, raisins, plums, bubble gum and spices. The flavors were where it hit reminding me of the Three Philosophers but not as heavy in terms of the rich bread and full body. However, the flavors are are pretty much there like the dark cherry, dulce de leche bread, pecan pie, bananas, bubble gum, raisins, figs, plums, chocolate notes, citrus, coriander, some pears and apples. The other crazy thing, is because this is a 9.6%, with hardly any carbonation, it is surprisingly drinkable. Alcohol is way to well hidden. I think that is what defines the perplexity in the name of the beer. It is like taking the 3 philosophers and making it lighter in terms of body and some complexity but still keeping the flavor consistency but moderate. I simple terms, it is less filling even if higher ABV. I would like to call it 3 Philosophers light but the beer is actually stronger in ABV. This is not a common beer in California but if I would find it again, I would pick it up for those days I want to just drink quads with less filling 🙂 (What is this a bud commercial? lol). Has that right amount of good flavors I love of some of the best quads in the world but not too involved. Belgian lovers will definitely hit up this one. I think even people that probably don’t like heavy quads might find this appealing. Basically take in the awesome flavors while not being too overwhelming or filling.
Rating: 4.75/5
Lips of Faith Series Cascara Quad by New Belgium is 10%ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with dates and coffee cherries added
Label:
Local roasters Novo Coffee turned us onto Central America’s Cascara, the fruit or husk that surrounds coffee beans. When dried, it can be made into a tea with hints of cherry and tobacco. Blend that into a quad fermented with gorgeous malts and date sugar for a crazy complex beer to warm winter nights.
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Freaking sweet. Quads are some of my best styles out there. To know that NB brewed a quad, definitely had to get 2 of these. The aromas are somewhat apparent but still there. Chocolate, cherries, biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel, some dark fruits, a little bit of bananas and very faint oakyness or brown sugar. Flavors are almost like Three Philosophers, almost. Cherries, chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, cloves, phenolic esters, biscuit bread, coffee cake, raisin and pecan pudding, dates, toffee, tobacco, candi sugars, . In terms of flavor, that is what hits this one home. Maybe not as aromatic as other quads but the flavors are great. The balance could use a little work as you can sense the alcohol but doesn’t detract too much from the flavors of this one. I picked up 2 since I thought it would be awesome. Well, I sure was not disappointed. This is still a very good beer and would pick up again if no other quads available. Also, at 10% this is definitely a winner. Just be careful because if it warms up then the booze becomes more apparent but the complexity is still complex but not supremely complex. Some people may like this while others may not.
Rating: 4/5
John John Rum Aged Hazelnut by Rogue Brewing is a 5.6% ABV Hazelnut Nectar Brown Ale aged in Hazelnut Spiced Rum Barrel
Label:
A nutty twist to a traditional European Brown Ale. Dark brown in color with a hazelnut aroma, a rich nutty flavor and a smooth malty finish.
12 Ingredients:
Great Western 2-Row Brown, Carastan 13/17, Crystal 70/80, Crystal 135/165, Beeston Pale Chocolate & Rogue Micro Barley Farm Dare™ malts; Rogue Micro Hopyard Independence & Revolution Hops;
Hazelnut Extract, Free Range Coastal Water & Pacman Yeast.
Specs:
19º PLATO
33 IBU
73.6 AA
36º Lovibond
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I am a big fan of the Hazelnut Brown Nectar, so to find that they made a Rum aged version is simply awesome. The aroma of this version is of pecans, hazelnuts, walnuts, dark fruits like a wine grapes, rum, almost like a coca cola, molasses, brown sugar, slight sour grapes, prunes, biscuit bread and caramel, cinnamon, oak and other spices. The taste is of sour grapes, prunes, rum, coconut, some hazelnut, cranberries, vanilla caramel, biscuit bread, pecans, cinnamon, oak, earthy hops, lemon and spices. The aftertaste is a mix of sweet and some sour flavors. At first it was mostly sour but then the beer got better as I went along adding more spicy and sweeter hazelnut and berry notes. An interesting beer for sure, but I still liked the original much better. This version takes it into interesting places of flavor but just not where I thought it would. The beer is not bad, in fact its very good but not sure if it was because of the low ABV but sometimes with Barrel Aging beer, it takes beers into planes of higher complexity. This did it but only into the “light” type of complexity. Still, if you like Hazelnut Nectar, you may like this one.
Rating: 4.8/5
Plum Riot by Bootlegger’s Brewery is a 7.8%ABV Belgian Dubbel brewed with plums and rock candy. Dubbel is an Belgian beer style that uses a double fermentation process.
Label:
For too long the plum has played second fiddle to more prestigious fruits. Biding their time in angry passage, the raging plum flavors have been plotting an uprising for centuries. The time and place for such a revolt is now. With the release of the cork, the first wave of plum flavors will attack your nose leaving nothing but the mark of their sweet and tart aromas. As this effervescent beer enters your mouth, the second wave strikes as the plum notes pummel and pillage your taste buds, surrounding them with an assault of flavor that demands respect. The age of the plum has finally arrived!
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Aromas are of sugar cane roots, plum, pears, apples, cinnamon, apple pie, peach cobbler, wine grapes, piloncillo sugar cone and dulce de leche caramel. The flavors are of plums, pears, slight pineapple, dulce de leche bread, vanilla creme, apple pie, peach cobbler, piloncillo sugar cone, unrefined sugar, raisins, dark berries, cherries, and figs. In a sense it is mainly a sugary plum beer. It is quite nice and Belgian like mainly focusing on fruit sweetness. While it doesn’t bleed more bready flavors and focuses more on dark fruits and sugar as well as some pie crust. Even so, it is still a nice beer if you are into sweet tasting beers. Which I sure as hell am so this is very delicious for me.
Rating: 5/5
Decadence 2012 Anniversary Ale by Ale Smith Brewing is a 12%ABV Belgian Quadruple Ale. Right below The Cloak of St. Martin 13% ABV, this is the strongest quad I have ever tried. Each year, decadence is a different beer style. This year pays tribute to the Belgian Monasteries and their age old brewing methods for Holy Beers
Label:
Alesmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Our brewers had such a great time creating it that they decided to brew a new style each year to commemorate our anniversary.
Now, seventeen years after we started, we’re proud to present another great addition in this ongoing series. AleSmith Decadence® 2012 is a big Belgian-style quadruple ale. A variety of Belgian malts impart notes of bread and ripe fruit with subtle hints of cloves and molasses. Its creamy mouthfeel is balanced by a rich, full-bodied finish. This rare offering is meant to be savored and will age nicely.
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Get this one while it is still out there. Belgian Quads or Quadrupel ales are some of my all time favorite beers being fermented 4 times to release a world of complexity that truly creates a world class style of beer. The aromas of the Decadence the the similar dulce de leche caramel, raisin bread, dark fruits and candied sugars like other quads. However, Decadence seems to offer some more aromas. From what I can tell, I gather some ginger bread, fruit cake, cherries, cinnamon and banana cloves. Almost Christmasy in a way. The flavors are pretty much like the name. So decadent and delicious. WOW… first sip and It was a just a bit more than the fragrances gave into. Dulce de leche, caramel, chocolate, a small amount of mocha coffee, ginger bread, bananas esters, cloves, molasses, anise, cherries, cinnamon, dates, pecans, raisins, plums, and slight raisin bread pudding flavor. It is almost in par with The Lost Abbey’s Judgment Day Ale except it has more flavors and much stronger in flavors and in ABV. Forget the fact that it says 12%ABV, you can’t tell that it is even in there. It gets you later but no strong boozyness just a lot of sweet Belgian caramel dark fruit bread goodness….. This is a must grab for Belgian fans…
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!!!
This is a series from Elysian, The 12 Beers of the Apocalypse. “The End is Beer”
Beer#10 (October) Omen is a 7.2% ABV Belgian Raspberry Stout.
This beer is focused more on the smokey and roasted bitter malts than other Belgian Style stouts. While some people prefer more sweeter than bitter, this one tries to balance it all. The smell of coffee, chocolate and minor fruitiness is apparent. The flavor is of dark bitter chocolate, coffee, raspberry fruitiness with some dark fruits like raisins and figs and alittle bit of biscuit bread, earthy hops and caramel. I think another component that rules in this beer is the smokey bitterness. While yes you do get some awesome sweet flavors, they finish dry making you want to try more so that the flavors really stick. There are hints of the Folklore from Stillwater in there but very little. Almost like a Black Saison with little bit of fruits here and there. It is worth a try just to see what this is about 🙂
Rating: 4.5/5
Noël Des Géants by Brasserie Des Légendes is a 8.5% ABV Herbed and Spiced Belgian Pale Ale. Brewery of legends makes beers in a medieval castle in a small French speaking town in Belgium. My friend Rich got this beer a while back. It looked pretty good so I had to find it.
Label:
Belgian and Ginger bread with dark fruits such as plums and raisins are noticeable fore front. Some minor coriander spice and orange peel are in there. Along with some Christmas spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It has some delicious flavors in the back of caramel, sun flower seeds, mint, pecans and hazelnuts.
The beer is fairly a sipping beer, but the alcohol is nowhere to be found and is well masked. Belgian beer people, see if you can find this one later this year. This one is from last year. Just the fact that you are drinking something that was made in a medieval castle….well…damn …that is just legendary!!
Dark Lord Russian Imperial Stout 2012 edition at 15% ABV by Three Floyds is one of those beers that you kinda get the feeling, your committing a crime just for even trying it. This because it is not supposed to be resold after you buy it. Renounced by beer geeks all over as one of the best of many beers on earth. Some even do a pilgrimage just to get this beer it is insane!!!! You can only get this beer by either attending Dark Lord Day in Indiana, where Three Floyds brewery is from, from Ebay or from some one you know that can hook you up…hehehe…lol. Sorry, this time my sources will remain anonymous. First of all you can’t just from bud light to this beer. Oh hell no!!! If you do ever find this one or have a lucky contact then your in the gold. But if you ever do find this oily brew then this is what you will expect to see. First of all it smells very sweet and vinous. There is not fizz to this beer. It is very upfront and flavor intense. The taste, to put it simply, is of a lighter Khalua (coffee/chocolate liqueur) if you added dark fruits like plums, cherries, apples and currants as well as molasses and port wine. There is no bitterness to this beer whatsoever. It is an extremely sweet beer and all of the flavors mask the alcohol so well, you think you are drinking straight syrupy beer. The complexity of the beer is damn near mind boggling and even some flavors that are hard to tell what they are. Like getting a sugar rush over 9000!!!…Like I said not for the closed minded and definitely not for the closed tasted of the beer craft. Sometimes the devil’s water could be a little too much, but I am sure you can be forgiven for indulging every once and a while. Is this beer really worth the hype?, only you can tell that answer for yourself, as for me being a fan of sweet beers it was damn worth getting this one for me. Thank you my secret sources….I had to pic several pictures of art for this one….but more focused on the more recent character, Lightning, mainly because she reminds me of the girl version of cloud. I spent a lot of time gathering the right art to pair with this beer and well I had to choose several >:P
For more info on this beer please visit http://www.darklordday.com/
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