Tag Archives: Kancolle/Kantai Collection

Stone Give Me Stout or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

15577901_10103829820735510_6753874502767628574_oRating: 5/5

Stone Give Me Stout or Give Me Death collaboration by Stone Brewing in Virginia is a 9.5% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Raspberries & Blackberries from the commonwealth of Virginia

Label:
Virginia Commemorative Collaboration

An Imperial Tribute to Richmond & the rise of craft beer independence.

Just as Patrick Henry once stood addressing the city of Richmond in 1775 to spur resistance against the tyrannical British Empire, 20 years ago we were stirred to join the cry for resistance against the tyrannical oppression of industrial beer. And now, the opening of our Richmond brewery is yet another shot in the salvo that has been fired on behalf of American brewing independence. If we wish to brew free, if we mean to retain our identity and preserve the privilege of access to independent craft beer, we must recognize it is a group effort. We do not stand alone. And so, on our new brewing grounds, we gathered with fellow craft breweries and “His Excellency,” Governor McAuliffe, to join together in force. A group cry of freedom & independence! Consider this aggressively hopped imperial stout, jam-packed with Virginia raspberries and blackberries, a testament to our passion and unwillingness to settle or sell out! We think Patrick Henry would be proud, and hope you will be too.

Our Collaborators
Ardent Craft Ales
Hardywood Park Brewery
His Excellency Terry McAuliffe, Virginia Governor.

==Introduction==
15675966_10103829820655670_8911762838849588472_o
The first brew I get to try from Stone in Richmond Virginia. To commemorate their opening, they brewed this stout using local blackberries and raspberries. The fact that it was a fruit stout was we really got me to go find this and bring it to the site. Many stone outlets sold this one early and will be hitting national distribution. So expect to see this one near you. Stone stouts tend to be somewhat aggressive but very delicious. Which makes me wonder how this one will go since it is using fruit. Let’s have a sip, cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted Barley notes, coffee, earthy hop notes, tobacco hints, anise, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, blackberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, fruit cake, brown sugar and hazelnut hints.

Flavors:
Deep Dark Chocolate mixed berry cordials, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, plums, raspberries, cherries, marshmallow smores, smokey notes, grassy, piney and earthy hop notes, tobacco, anise, molasses, roasted barley, roasted coffee, mocha, pecan pie, crème brulee, flan, stone fruit peach hints, brown sugar, fruit cake, mild soy sauce, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate brownies, chocolate raspberry cake, hazelnut nectar, rye bread with boysenberry preserves, raspberry and blackberry yogurt hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with dark chocolate, earthy hop notes, dark fruit hints, mixed berries, vanilla, caramel, molasses, roasted barley and coffee notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body. Smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect stout. This one was definitely more in terms of bring out the rich full stout flavors. While I did not increase the rating anymore as the berries are mainly there for support and balance out the flavors, on its own it is super damn amazing. Yes I do believe with more fruit forward and chocolate forward flavors I would have been moved to give it the higher grade but this is just enough to really say it is perfect enough. It is also very hoppy too but will probably release more chocolate and fruit with age. I will definitely need to try and get more of these bottles to cellar. I think they have an awesome winner here that I highly recommend!
15675590_10103829820660660_5506855091637574308_o
Anime Corner:
Tenryuu from Kantai Collection (KanColle) was chosen for this pairing was chosen for this pairing as I wanted to match some of her colors with that of the label and the ingredients. Her attitude to perceiver I think works well with the name. Give Me Stout or Give Me Death is a strong statement that seems very demanding. Just like Tenryuu’s character. She doesn’t look like she gives a damn and will mess up anyone that gets in her way.
15676075_10103829820665650_2242010909788392649_o
Sources:
https://k60.kn3.net/taringa/3/6/D/0/4/C/zDystopia/64C.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cp88CcAW8AECMas.jpg:large
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/tenryuu-(kantai-collection)-Kantai-Collection-Anime-Опасные-Няшки-1985236.jpeg
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Kantai-Collection-Tenryuu-920580.jpeg

Apple Pie Style Texas Honey Ale by Guadalupe Brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

13235163_10103279139395330_1939234816321157695_o 13308630_10103279163257510_1189046450869312272_oRating: 5.5/6

Apple Pie Style Texas Honey Ale by Guadalupe Brewing is an 8.5% ABV Fruit beer made with Apples, Spices and Texas Honey.

Label:
Bottled Date: 12.30.15
Using Our Texas Honey Ale as a base we added apples and spices to make this a crowd favorite

==Introduction==

A share from my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com, this brew seemed the best one to start the box my friend sent of sweet sweet Texas nectar. Based on what was used for this one and what it’s going for, it does seem like a delicious dessert in a bottle. I think having said this, there hasn’t been an apple pie beer made directly with the intention of tasting like apple pie so definitely is a unique one for sure. Let’s have a look.

Aromas:
Cinnamon, Pecan pie, Apple Pie, vanilla ice cream, honey, graham crackers, ginger bread, ginger spice, fruit cake notes, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit cherry, prunes, raisins, nutmeg and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Delicious Apple pie right off the bat, honey, pecan pie notes, hazelnut, all spice, nutmeg, cinnamon, graham crackers, ginger bread, ginger spice, fruit cake notes, bananas, clove spice, pumpkin spice, stone fruit apricot, marshmallows, vanilla, caramel, toffee, capirotada raisins bread pudding, dark fruit notes of plum, white raisins, cherry and white prunes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich apple pie notes, cinnamon, graham crackers, nutmeg, pumpkin spice, ginger bread, vanilla, honey and bananas. No alcohol in the taste. Honey golden colored hazy body, crisp, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional brew. It really does taste like what they were going for, delicious apple pie and honey. I tend to lean towards beers that taste a lot like they said they should taste and as a result, these beers always get the best scores from me. I really like beers that taste like something specific and especially those who are so complex and rich with flavors. This beer proved to be many of those things so I would highly recommend it if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Wo-Class from Kantai Collection (KanColle) and Q-Bee from Darkstalkers were used to pair with the label of the bees but also the colors of the honey and sweetness that is the beer. The complex colors they represent also represent some of the flavors of the beer like the apples and citrus for example.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Wo-Class.(Kantai.Collection).full.1619033.jpg
http://blog-imgs-79.fc2.com/s/e/i/seiroganmania/569cd591.jpg

American Wit by 3 Nations

by tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

12734186_10103065582864330_7388924817579113886_nRating: 4.75/5

American Wit by 3 Nations is a 5.5% ABV Witbier.

Label:
“Get Your Facts First, Then You Can Distort Them As You Please” – Mark Twain

There’s nothing in the world like American Wit. Dry but to the point. This American Wit is a healthy blend of a traditional Belgian Brew, with certified American Brass. It’s not meant to adhere to the noise. It’s meant to be the noise. It’s a youthful take on a classic style, sure to spark some controversy. The American Wit wouldn’t have it any other way.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one from my friend Aaron Mendiola atBeerMetalDude.com. This brew’s art work is awesome depicting Mark Twain on the label, the famous author and writer. It is an honor to review a beer with him on the label. As for the contents of the can, I will have to take my time and see what 3 nations has to offer as this is the first time I try one of their beers. Many witbiers I have tried, some better than others but let’s see where this one goes, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, apricot, farm house funk, hay, peppercorns, citrus, floral and herbal hops, grapefruit hints, honey, cane sugar, coriander, apples and wheat bread.

Flavors:
Peppercorns, citrus, floral and herbal hops, coriander spice, bubble gum notes, Belgian candi sugar, wheat bread, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, farm house funk, hay, apples, vanilla, bananas, clove spice, chamomile notes, cane sugar, lemon peel, tangerine candy hints, grapefruit hints and guava.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with hints of vanilla, cane sugar, pepper corns and herbal hops. No alcohol in the taste, clear pale yellow body, smooth, clean, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very good witbier. Some of the flavors of this brew remind me a little bit more of a saison or a farmhouse ale. It is quite the irony as this has Mark Twain on the label and the fact that it reminds me of my favorite saisons from Stillwater Artisanal called Eschatological ale. The Eschatological ale has a pic of the devil on it. The reason I say it is ironic as there was this disturbing video online from the banned episode “The Mysterious Stranger” of the European Kid’s show “The Adventures Of Mark Twain”. In the claymation episode, it showed Mark Twain and some kids meeting Satan.

As weird as it maybe for the kids show, the fact that I’m correlating this to a saison especially a good saison makes this one that much greater. I definitely enjoyed this one and would recommend it if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Musashi Super Battleship from Kancolle/Kantai Collection was used in this pairing as I was trying to find a character that would fit with the colors of the label with the glasses and pipe that Mark Twain has.

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/417935-750×1000-kantai+collection-musashi+super+battleship-sumisu+%28mondo%29-single-tall+image-light+erotic.jpg

Beer# 31 Ume Umai (Delicious Plum) by Gigantic brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

12091381_10102849579406990_3095887656506076660_o 12095233_10102849576343130_4444264306122364780_oRating: 4.35/5

Beer# 31 Ume Umai (Delicious Plum) by Gigantic brewing is a 7.5% ABV Specialty Grain Ale brewed with Plums and Black Rice.

Label:
“Party For Your Right To Fight.” – Chuck D

Inspireed by the Japanese flavor palette, we combined plums, black rice and pilsner to make a unique beer experience. Brewed “Dry” in the asian manner, Ume Umai is fruity yet earthy and above all, refreshing and delicious.
==Introduction==

Its been a long time for a Gigantic beer review. I don’t often get a chance to try their beers but they have been coming out more frequently however. Which hopefully I will be trying more if something intrigues my eyes. Ume Umai or Japanese for “Delicious Plum” is the beer I bring forth. With Plum and Black Rice or Forbidden rice which is mainly native to countries such as China, Thailand and Indonesia. An interesting ingredient at that and some forms of this rice comes in like a purple color.

Aromas:
Plum soda, Sake hints, Red bean ice cream mochi balls, peppercorn spice, caramel, vanilla, bubble gum, clove spice, bananas, oranges, Lychee fruit, Coriander spice, sakura cakes, ginger spice hints, grape skins, guava notes, lavender, sweet rice balls, cane sugar, apples, floral hops and cereal grain.

Flavors:
Oranges, Lychee fruit, Coriander spice, Rice pudding, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit plums, Red bean ice cream mochi balls, peppercorn spice, caramel, vanilla, bubble gum, clove spice, bananas, rice cakes, sakura cakes, ginger spice hints, grape skins, guava notes, sake notes, sweet rice balls, cane sugar, apples, floral hops, hibiscus, lavender hints, sweetened condensed milk, biscuit bread, plum sauce and cereal grain.

Aftertaste:
Leaving traces of dark fruits, stone fruits, hints of tropics, earthy notes, rice pudding, sakura cakes and coriander spice with oranges. No alcohol in the taste, cloudy full golden body, creamy, crispt, effervescent and full mouthfeel and a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Very good brew with some very Japanese like flavors especially the rice dessert flavors. With the plum combination, this turned out to be very sweet and interesting. Being a smooth and lagerish like beer full of a complex flavor that was definitely worthy of merits. While it was not super boastful in its flavors as it was not head on fruits but lightly noted, it definitely gave it some credit for being above refreshing. Worth a try and maybe more.

Anime Corner:
Wo-Class from Kancolle/Kantai Collection was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair a character that has an octopus or some kind of tentacle monster on their head and went well with the flavors and ingredients of the beer like the color of the dark fruits and plums as well as the rice patties from where the black rice came from. Simply put, pairing that works with the beer label and flavors and colors.

Sources:
http://file.blog.fc2.com/jingaidaisuki/dec71d57f928_134E4/sinnkai059.jpg
http://konachan.com/sample/24261575452244fa04602ce2e80ffb9c/Konachan.com%20-%20189426%20sample.jpg

The Devil is People by Stillwater Artisanal

by tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

12002606_10102814079139810_3836984808573614896_o 12004107_10102814079294500_5945325456982187033_nRating: 4.75/5

The Devil is People by Stillwater Artisanal is a 6.66% ABV Sour Smoked Wheat Ale/ Smoked Gose.

Label:
“Bonnie Stillwater is a conceptual collaboration of artistry & friendship. Indie folk-punk legend, Will Oldham (aka Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy), experimental music ensemble, Watter, and post modern beer designers, Stillwater Artisanal, assembled in Louisville

The collective then set out to create a unique sensory experience built on existential philosophy and the love of craftsmanship.”

12” single available at: temporaryresidence.com
==Introduction==

Finally got around to bringing another Stillwater Artisanal beer to the site. It surely has been a minute and my reviews have been lacking but dying to bring some Stillwater goodness to the site. This time I bring an interesting beer. Aside from the whole occult aspect which really intrigues me, this is a smoked wheat beer. I want to say that my first experience with sour wheat ales has really been from Texas. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of beermetaldude.com, I have tried the style in the past a couple of times. So to have it from Stillwater, this is going to be an experience for sure. Let us take a dip into the darkness that is, this light looking beer! Cheers!

Aromas:
Lemon peel, straw hay, crackers, farmhouse hay, smoked jerky, peppercorns, wheat, coriander spice, Oranges, White grapes, Sage spice, Sour grapes, funky must, mushrooms, earthy notes, Tejuino, sea salt, lavender, hibiscus, rose hips, juniper berries, lemon drop and smokey campfire notes.

Flavors:
Oranges, Lemon peel, White grapes, Sage spice, Sour grapes, funky must, mushrooms, earthy notes, oak, vanilla hints, smokey campfire notes, Tejuino, sea salt, lavender, hibiscus, rose hips, juniper berries, lemon drops, crackers, farmhouse hay, smoked jerky, peppercorns, wheat, coriander spice, beachwood, stone fruit tart apricots, tart green apple hints, mango and pears.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some sour notes, sea salt, smokey notes, tart fruits and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, light golden body, crisp, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
If you love smokey and sour beers, damn this is a damn delicious blend! Stuff is very pleasant sour and smokey with hints of sweet and sour and salty goodness. For the Gypsy brewer who focuses on the saisons and wild ales, this is definitely a winner in my book. Aside from the captivation and great art work, Stillwater has yet to let me down and the beers are always some of the best out there. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Battleship Symbiotic Hime from Kantai Collection/ KanColle was used in this pairing to pair with the woman in the label but also the skeleton/devil figure of the label. It is kind of ironic how this piece actually contributes to both the Metal Pairings my friend Aaron does and the Anime Pairings I do. It is almost like the beer was made for both Anime and Metal!? Yes, this does exist!!

Here is a link to the song this beer references: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLYK1AfRBmY

Sources:
http://mmbiz.qpic.cn/mmbiz/eaPknNTibGM0sSDeZvJACoLm11C6Vc1iaKA4yoZGHt13V1rQSACLUHy5IWVJUhpRjO4rbKlYV9G9TuNDB68piagCw/0

Points Unknown IPA collaboration by Stone, Ecliptic and Wicked Weed brewing companies

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10842149_10102637064628310_7666711505277713039_oRating: 5.25/5

Points Unknown IPA collaboration by Stone, Ecliptic and Wicked Weed brewing companies is a 9.5% ABV Double India Pale Ale blended with a Belgian Tripel that was aged in barrels that had wine and then had tequila in them for 4 months.

Label:
In creating our latest collaboration beer, It wasn’t easy deciding how best to pool the resources of brewers from three spatially distant points within the brewing universe: Portland, Oregon brewing legend and Ecliptic Brewing founder John Danis, and Luke and Walt Dickinson, the hop-and-funk brewmaster duo behind Asheville, North Carolina’s Wicked Weed Brewing. It seemed no single beer could adequately convey all that they and Stone Brewmaster Mitch Steele bring to the brewhouse. So, this veritable triad of power opted to brew TWO beers: a traditional Belgian-style tripel and a West Coast imperial IPA. Doing so allowed them to work within the parameters of all styles while taking things in interesting directions, adding a touch of Southern Califomia style and petting into the spirit! The tripel was transferred into barrels that originally housed red wine before finding a second life as vessels for aging tequila. Four months later,that beer was excavated, then blended at a one-fifth to four-fifths ratio with the freshly brewed double IPA to create the beer you now hold: a hind of the traditional and the new, presenting a variety of diverse flavors that coalesce into something more unique than any one beer our trio could have conceived. Its eventual flavors were a mystery to even the group of master brewers who created it, but now they await the palates of those thirsting to venture to points unknown within the rapidly expanding craft beer galaxy. In other words: You.

“It’s been sweet to work with these fine brewers and take this beer out of sight!”
John Harris // Founder & Brewmaster, Ecliptic Brewing Co.

“Creativity is at the core of how my brother and I approach craft beer John and Mitch have been laying this foundation for years, and getting the chance to work with them has been truly inspirational.”
Walt Dickinson // Co-Founder & Brewer, Wicked Weed Brewing

“What a great experience, combining two of my favorite beer styles while brewing with two of my favorite breweries!”
Mitch Steele // Brewmaster, Stone Brewing Co.

==Introduction==

Another interesting release that will see national distribution. Based on the information given, this is probably some IPA that came by to visit this reality from like the 9th dimension of craft beer existence. It really intrigued me especially since it is a Belgian Tripel IPA but also aged in wine and Tequila. Go figure the complexity. Either way, Lets hope we can make it back to this reality at hand as it seems this buzz trip is headed where no palates have gone before. It’s On! Cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, phenolic, Belgian candi sugar, grapefruit, herbal, grassy and floral hops, Peppercorns, wine, tequila, mezcal hints, stone fruits like peaches, apricots, mango hints, exotic fruits like passion and dragon, oak , vanilla, caramel, strawberries, caramel, vanilla, lemon peel, pear, honey dew and Danish cream.

Flavors:
Citrus, grapefruit, herbal, grassy and floral hops, Peppercorns, Wine grapes, tequila mezcal hints, oak, Belgian Candi sugar, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, apples, starburst candy, caramel, vanilla, lemon peel, pear, peaches, banana notes, pineapple, honey dew melon, biscuit bread, honey, raspberries, strawberries, white grapes, Danish cream, bubble gum, rum hints, clove spice and tangerines.

Aftertaste:
Tequila mezcal, sangria hints, wine hints, citrus, stone fruit peaches, herbal and floral hops peppercorns and candi sugar linger. No alcohol in the taste, golden brown clear body, moderate to sipping drinkability, crisp, refreshing smooth yet creamy.

Overall:
An exceptional IPA that pretty much takes what you believe an IPA should be (Hoppy) and turns it into so many different flavors that it is all over the and yet supremely enjoyable and reminding you that the hops it does have are different for sure. It seems to be more of a tripel than it is an IPA but still an IPA and the Tequila and Wine…. damn it was a mission to cover this beer. Very enjoyable and something beyond a regular IPA. Find this one!

Anime Corner:
Hikoujouki, Senkanseiki and Wo-Class from Kancolle/ Kantai Collection were used in this pairing as the points unknown as not only represent three freaky creatures but also the colors work with the beer artwork. First, the girl on the left is Ecliptic as her hair curves with the phases of the moon. Stone in the back with the girl having horns is synonymous of Stone’s gargoyle and finally, Wicked Weed on the right having a big bug. Bugs live in weeds. Anyways, they are wicked (As in Awesome). Yeah they totally look like they aren’t of this world, complimenting the beer perfectly.

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/image/?image_id=621596

Deviant Dale’s India Pale Ale by Oskar Blues

by tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10891515_10102372781513790_7496257806159314368_nRating: 4.95/5

Deviant Dale’s India Pale Ale by Oskar Blues is an 8% ABV India Pale Ale.

Label:
Sippin’ On A Tall Boy
Pack it in, Pack it out

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
This beer is intended to be a sensory assault for hop lovers. At 8.0% ABV, four hop additions during the brew process, and a final wallop of excessive Columbus dry-hopping, this beer is meant to say one thing: MORE HOPS! Perfect for these cool winter nights, The Deviant is a returning favorite from the little brewery in Lyons, Colorado that started the Canned Revolution!

==Introduction==

First tried at my friend Richard’s house, I had not tried this one since then. Oskar Blues makes some really great beers and this one was one that was definitely awesome so I had to pick it up for a review. I may include their Dale’s Pale Ale here as well but we will see when. For the meantime, you can find this one just about anywhere they sell craft beer and Oskar Blues products. Let’s see where this IPA category this one falls under. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dank and garlicky notes, piney, grapefruit, floral, herbal, citrus and grassy hops, caramel, biscuit bread, tangerine preserves, mango hints, strawberry hints, rye bread, tangerine candy, orange peel, dragon fruit, toffee, biscuit bread and sweetened condensed milk hints.

Flavors:
Citrus, grapefruit, piney, grassy, herbal and floral hops, caramel, biscuit bread, tangerine preserves, oranges, orange peel, butterscotch, rye bread, tangerine candy, orange preserves, dragon fruit, mango hints, dank and garlicky notes, strawberry hints, toffee, hop oils, lemon candy, sweetened condensed milk hints and pineapple.

Aftertaste:
Rye, tangerine candy, caramel, biscuit bread, orange peel, grapefruit, piney, grassy and herbal hops.
No alcohol in the aftertaste, Crimson Gold light body, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good example of an India Pale Ale with it’s strongest characteristics on being balanced with malt versus grassy and piney hops. This one falls under the malty, citrusy and fruity aspects of IPA and less into the herbal but still carrying its weight in hop complexity. I would recommend this one if the citrusy IPAs are your favorite.

Anime Corner:
Battleship Symbiotic Hime from Kantai Collection/ KanColle was used in this pairing as I wanted to bring about the name of the beer being Deviant Dale. Essentially not only does this character look like she’s up to no good, she looks like a little devil. To summarize the colors of the beer as well as the colors of the label from the can, this art compliments these items well. She is one smooth criminal that steals at your taste buds and emotions with a hoppy burn but pleasurable sweet bliss!

Sources:
http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2014/280/6/d/battleship_princess_by_asuka111-d81yehg.jpg

2014 Black Damnation III Black Mes by De Struise Brouwers

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10868026_10102260952944140_2016070284533537078_n 10882212_10102260954266490_5404754783595709847_nRating: 7/5 *Last Rating/Review of 2014

2014 Black Damnation III Black Mes by De Struise Brouwers is a 13% ABV Belgian Imperial Stout aged for 3 months in 1995 Caol Ila (MES) Bourbon Whisky Barrels.

Label:
The Black Damnation series is a dark twist of Urban’s mind. His idea is to realize a dozen beers with the use of Black Albert, and over a period of two years, that are as black as hell, filthy rich in the nose and with a massive taste.

A massive Stout from Flanders
BD 666 Imperial Stout

==Introduction==

Time for another year to begin. It has been a great 2014 and more beers to come in 2015. This beer comes to me from www.craftshack.com which only had a very limited amount and I was only able to snag a single bottle. There a demand for the Black Damnation Series that I was never aware of and this is the first time I try it. The only thing is the price tag on this one (about $40-50 a bottle). I have seen this one in the past but I have never stooped to get it. Since it is the Holidays and I wanted to really see if this type of beer was worth the hype, I decided to splurge and bring it forth here so we can see if this bottle is truly its gold in price.

Thank you all for following me this far for almost 5 years since I started doing my own reviews for friends and then jumped to do them for the public and those who appreciate the true works of art and flavor experience. Cheers to you and your families, Have a Happy New Year and hope to bring more beers in the future to the site. Many thanks to my greats friends such as Aaron from Texas who has been hooking me up with great beers from his region, William and Richard who’s great home brews has sparked my motivation to start my own home brews soon and the beginning of NubisSanctum Ales. To you the readers, my family and friends, Bless you all and Hope to have a great 2015, cheers!!

Aromas:
Very Rich Dark Fruits and berries such as Raisins, Currants, Figs, Plums, Black Cherries, Raspberries, Pomegranite, Blackberries, Blueberries,Boysenberries,Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, White Chocolate, Strawberry Preserves, Toasted Rye Bread, Dulce De leche Caramel, Vanilla, Oak, Whiskey, Port Wine, Grapes, Bananas, Clove spice, Anise, Molasses, Licorice hints, Flan, Three Milks Cake, Blackberry Cheese Cake, Smokey Campfire hints, Marshmallow smores, Coconut hints, brown sugar, hazelnut, Black Cherry Yogurt, leather, tobacco and more.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, White Chocolate, German Chocolate, Rich Dark Fruits like raisins, plums, figs, Dark currants, Dark Cherries, Black Cherry, Boysenberries, Pomegranite, Raspberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, currants, mango hints, dragon fruit, blackberry cheese cake, Rich Black Cherry Yogurt, prailines, raisin bread pudding,hazelnuts, bananas, clove hints, Port Wine, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, deep smokey oak, marshmallow smores, campfire smokey hints, strawberry preserves, rye bread, milk sugar, maple, molasses, anise, roasted coffee, mocha, Kahlua, whisky, subtle coconut hints, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, licorice hints, cookie dough, oreo cookies, Cherry Dr. Pepper hints, earthy notes, flan, 3 leches/3 milks cake, brown sugar and ambrosia.

Aftertaste:
Leaving Rich Dark fruits and berry flavors, roasted coffee, earthy notes, leather, tobacco, oak, caramel, dark chocolate, dark cherry yogurt and whiskey notes that linger for a very, very, very, VERY LONG TIME. Yeah, it is pretty damn rich no doubt. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black as night body, syrupy yet super smooth mouthfeel, scarily easy to drink despite the ABV.

Overall:
A damn phenomenal beer that Drinks like a Dark Lord Imperial Stout but maybe even more. One of the Best Belgian Imperial Stouts. So infused with so many complex fruity yet dark flavors and pretty much drinks like a special syrup that just taints the taste beds to no end leaving such a mark of sweetness and roasty complexity that keeps going. Maybe damnation isn’t too far off as you been damn with a complex level of sweetness that just keeps evolving. WOW…Is it worth the ridiculous price? No way, then again maybe worth a try once. I think the only justification is the fact that it is an import after all. Trying at least one of the bottles is worth just a try if you really want to. However, if you have tried a heavy Russian Imperial Stout like Darkness, Dark Lord, Black Hole Sun, Serpent’s Stout and others, just infuse it with rich dark fruits and great Belgian Dark Stout Arts and oh yeah, 20 year old super fancy whiskey, then you will likely have this one although I can’t get over how damn smooth this one was. It drank way to easy and was damn scary. For something this high quality, maybe there is a reason for the price. You be the judge really, all I can say, You Only Craft Beer Whale Once…

Anime Corner:
Battleship Symbiotic Hime from Kantai Collection/ KanColle was used in this pairing since I wanted to display many aspects of the beer. The Flavors of the beer can be expressed through the colors where she , the Symbiotic Hime stands on Skulls as she takes in a drink. She also represents the dark but also the fruity crimson of dark fruit complexity from this beer. She is damn sexy! It is hard to see which best represents the Black Damnation aspect as well as the aging process it took for this beer to come to fruition. The skulls and machinery pairs well with the label as the skull almost looks like it is part of a machine. The schematics and wiring of the label are almost as complex as the dark recesses of the human mind. They also look digital in a way like the matrix. Like drinking something like this may break the code of reality, or something like that. Pretty much sums up the complexity of the beer in almost every aspect of the experience. Regardless of what it is, Symbiotic Hime represents the damnation like that of hell or the Devil’s water which is fits the beer over all. The reason I chose all of this including this beer as the last for 2014 has to do mainly with the unknown. We don’t know how complex the future will be as the years come and even in the height of the the uncertain and complex unknown future, we can take our past experiences with us and embrace whatever comes. Don’t see is as being damn for 2015, see this as a window of unlimited opportunities, good and bad for all as we hurdle and waltz through this complex reality called Life…and as we go, we an have more beers, so… Cheers!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/zPK1DVh.jpg
http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2014/194/f/0/abysmal_area__3_by_flaurel-d7qjxjk.jpg

Persimmon Ship collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Upland brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10801791_10102245348485600_1858096512954967825_n 10858104_10102245347921730_4107552783974190213_nRating: 5/5

Persimmon Ship collaboration by Jolly Pumpkin and Upland brewing is a 5% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with Persimmons and Dragon Fruit

Label:
Combining Indiana Persimmons and Dragon fruit from Thailand? Who would concoct such a divinely subtle concoction of joy and delight? Only the spookily twisted folks at Jolly Pumpkin and Upland Brewing, that’s who. From the rolling hills of Indiana, to the twisted wrought iron gates and graveyards of Dexter, comes this wonderful blending of oak aged sour ale.

Our First Collaborative Release of 2014!

==Introduction==

I obtained this bottle at Luekensliquor.com which sells many Florida beers. While I wanted more, 1 was all I can obtain. It makes me believe they will have more soon. The fact that this was a Jolly Pumpkin beer collaborating with Upland, I had to have it. The last time I had an Upland beer was their Double Dragonfly DIPA which they are so weird with this. It shows a weird combination of Humanoid Dragonflies in their mating season. A great beer, but certainly hard to come by and hopefully is something that we get to see here in California as we typically get these beers. So if you do find it, hopefully my review will help you, Cheers!

Aromas:
Pink dragon fruit, honey dew melon, persimmons, sourdough bread, white wine grapes, funky old oranges, farmhouse hay, vegetable notes, hints of vanilla and caramel, good amount of oak, brettanomyces, plums, passion fruit, tangerines, coriander spice, flowers and lavender.

Flavors:
Persimmons, Grapefruit, Dragon fruit, passion fruit, mango, Lemons, lemon peel, white wine grapes, tart apricots, funky old oranges, plums, peaches, coriander spice, peppercorns, farmhouse hay, sour dough bread, vanilla, oak, caramel, grapefruit peel, tangerine peel, honey, pineapple, lavender, flowers, lemon grass, sour apples, herbs and old banana hints.

Aftertaste:
Dry Persimmons, Dragon fruit sweet hints, apricots, peaches, grapefruit and mango peel finishing dry.
No alcohol in the taste, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel, light to medium cloudy yellow body and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect collaboration with a fair amount of fruit and sour complexity despite only being 5% ABV. There isn’t many beers using actual persimmons or dragon fruit this definitely was a winner. I have not seen this one anywhere in California and hope I can get this again but online is the best bet for this crazy beer. Jolly Pumpkin knows their sours and I would love to definitely try more Upland beers if I can find them. If you love tarts sours and Jolly Pumpkin sours, go find this lost pirates treasure!

Anime Corner:
Ruby Heart from Marvel Vs. Capcom 2 and Aircraft Carrier-hime from Kantai Collection were used to represent the label and its colors. Ruby Heart, the captain of the ship in search for treasure (Upland) and it’s Ghost matie first class (Jolly Pumpkin) set sail the briny sour deep of the taste buds. We can also see the similarities in Aircraft carrier-hime where she commands above a skull sending out a barrage of what look to be pumpkins in tribute to the Jolly Pumpkins. There is so much going on here that pairs well with the beer, you are just going to have to figure it out.

Sources:
http://blogs.c.yimg.jp/res/blog-6b-a3/nikujikun/folder/136358/42/39147142/img_0?1376727320
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/369961-1500×1250-kantai+collection-aircraft+carrier+hime-kouji+%28astral+reverie%29-single-light+erotic-looking+at+viewer.jpg

No. 19 Barrel Aged Series Rufus Corvus by Avery brewing

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10433107_10102152760827010_5207325096843776489_nRating: 5.45/5

No. 19 Barrel Aged Series Rufus Corvus by Avery brewing is a 6.83% ABV World Class American Wild Ale with 65% aged in Cabernet Savignon barrels, 9% Ale aged in chardonnay barrels and 6% Zinfandel barrels.

Label:
The Sour Trinity
Pediococcus
Brettanomyces
Lactobasillicus

No. 19 An artful and massively acidic blend of two major projects and further enhanced with several orphan barrels from the corners of our barrel aging cellar. All Ale involved was barrel aged for a minimum of 8 months and a maximum of 24 months.

Pucker up, buttercup!

Bottled: April 7 2014
Production: 858 Cases
___

Avery Barrel Aged series definitely sells out quick here in California to the point that sometimes I miss out on such great beers. Aaron from www.beermetaldude.com introduced me to this beer. A sour using the vast variety of souring bacteria used in sour beers but then taken to another level using a variety of oak wine barrels. This was truly an honor just like that of the 5 monks. I cannot wait to try this monster and see how it goes…. wish me luck!

Aromas:
Wine grapes, port wine, funky oak, earthy notes, vinegar notes, wine and cheese party, dark fruits like plum, raisins, currants, berry skins, caramel, vanilla, lemon peel, lime, salt, dark cherry, plum sauce, port wine, chardonay, raspberries, rye bread, brown sugar hints, pecan hints and hazelnut.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, plum, wine grapes, salt, lemon, lime peel, dark cherries, plum sauce, Concorde grapes, vanilla, port wine, chardonay, wine grapes, caramel, rye bread, stone fruit peach, pear, apples, funky, earthy notes, good cheese and wine, raspberry vinaigrette, hazelnut, smoked wood, leather, tobacco, berry yogurt, raw berry seeds, mild cheesecake notes in the back, brown sugar, pecan pie dryness, and very mild flan.

Aftertaste:
Ridiculously dry leaving only some sour notes, caramel, dark fruit skins and earthy funk. No alcohol in the taste, a puckeringly mouth feel, sipping beer, pitch brown bordering the black and purple abyss of a body.

Overall:
Very Rich and complex sour. Possibly the ultimate complex and balanced sour. Only the truest sours can be appreciated by palates with an achieved open level of taste. This is sour but it is rich beyond comprehension. Sours are only a handful of my favorites but this takes it a certain level I have not experienced before. It is like the Cardinal Poles of tasting. You have your extreme Smokey, Extreme Sweet, Extreme Bitter and Extreme sour but at the same times, the poles blend and while one pole is the most dominant, in this case the Sour pole, the other sides are so balanced that that they make the sourness be very complex. I would highly recommend this one if you love sours, especially puckering and sweet complex ones.

Anime Corner:
Battleship-Symbiotic Hime and Wo-class from Kantai Collection were used in this pairing to represent the dark void of the sours and the creatures you typically don’t see. The 2 characters and the monster in the background represent the 3 bacteria: Lactobasiliccus,Pediococcus and Brettanomyces. The colors also represent some aspects of the dark fruit and complex flavors as well. While Doing this review, I could only think of Caius Ballad’s theme (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8vXYBEvSow) from Final Fantasy XIII-2 and Lightning Returns. As the characters stumble deeper and deeper into the chaos and mainly this character being the embodiment of Chaos, it is synonymous with exploring deeper and deeper into the sour world of super complex sour beers like this one presents.

Sources:
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2013/12/02/182227/d837c3da88727616dae561894aed45ee.jpg

2014 MASH by the Bruery

by tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10507124_10102061173623500_2930308288137729552_oRating: 5.95/5

2014 MASH by the Bruery is a 12.4% ABV English Barley Wine aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
TO HAVE NOT

An English-style classic with rich flavors from time spent aging in bourbon barrels.

Mas is delicately rich and malty ale, best enjoyed fresh , but may evolve pleasentyly over time if cellared properly.
___

This beer was released by the Bruery in 2013 and re-released for 2014 to the Reserve society. This beer was something I was always curious about but mainly let it slide because I was not a member at the time and something I through I could get better for. As it turned out, now I finally had a chance and I wanted to see if this beer was really worth it. A barrel Aged Barleywine. I could only start to think of Bourbon County Barleywine. At 750ml, I had to get it for sure. So here you go, the MASH review from the Bruery!

Aromas:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, dulce de leche caramel, old bananas, clove spice, toffee, plantains, macaroons, toasted coconut, hazelnuts, almonds, pecan pie, chocolate, toffee, macamadamia nuts, rocky road ice cream, custard, brownies, chocolate cake, rye bread, maple, mocha, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, and condensed sweetened milk.

Flavors:
Rich toffee, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, macaroons, marshmallows, rich bananas, clove spice, crème brulee, flan, plantain, almonds, pecan pie, chocolate, hazelnut nectar, toffee, macamadamia nuts, rocky road ice cream, custard, brownies, chocolate cake, rye bread, mocha, dark fruit raisins, plums, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, condensed sweetened milk and maple.

Aftertaste:
Bananas, caramel, dark fruits, butterscotch, rye bread, chocolate hints, almonds and toasted coconut macaroons linger. No alcohol in the taste, medium to full bodied, a sipping beer and syrupy mouth feel yet smooth.

Overall:
Undoubtedly exceeding my expectations. The Bruery making a fucking Barley wine that can actually compete with even the world class ones and yet not recognized due to its availability!? Unheard of!! This should definitely be world class as it definitely proves what the true English Barleywine can truly be like. As I look at the EBWs from before this one is definitely one of the top ones! Highly recommended!

Anime Corner:
Senkanseiki from the Kantai Collection was used in this pairing to pair with the colors of the label and the evil that the beer represents. Evil in the sense that it is very good, it is too damn good making you want to drink the whole bottle. However, despite its richness and deliciousness, this one must be taken lightly and savored a sip at a time. The colors of the artwork resonate with the awesome flavor complexity of the beer ranging from the dark cherry, coconut, dark fruits and so forth. The strength of Senkanseiki can also compliment the strength of this beer’s ABV. So much can be said about this delicious treasure but the best part of this is leaving it to you, the reader to make of it what you will!

Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2014-06-12-654736.jpeg

Bourbon Barrel Aged Winter Warmer by Rahr & Sons

by tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

1620819_10101692608406150_137183940_nRating: 5.75/5

Bourbon Barrel Aged Winter Warmer by Rahr & Sons is a 9% ABV Winter Warmer aged in bourbon Barrels.

Label:
We take recently emptied bourbon barrels and refill them with our Winter Warmer English-Style Dark Ale. We then barrel age this majestic ale for 10 weeks. The result is a balanced, ambitious blend of dark malts and English hops.
___

Amazing thanks to my good friend Aaron in Texas, ruler of www.beermetaldude.com who presented me with another great beer. This time, a style I have never even thought was possible. A winter warmer, aged in bourbon barrels. Although, Widmer did make a partial aged one but I am sure this one takes the cake.. Holy Shit! This is truly unique. It is an honor and a pleasure once again my friend to be able to bring this forth to our craft beer review fans. Cheers to you and Cheers to you readers. Thanks for reading.

Aromas:
Rich dark fruits like raisins, prunes, figs, dark chocolate, cherries, currants, all spice, ginger bread, fruit cake, vanilla, oak, coconut, hazelnut nectar, nutella, rye bread, dulce de leche caramel, raisin bread pudding, port wine notes, coffee cake and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Chocolate, Dark fruits like the prunes, raisins, cherries, currants, fruit cake, oak, bourbon, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, ginger, all spice, vanilla, choco flan, coffee cake, brown sugar, pecan pie, hazelnut, rye bread, dulce de leche carame, port wine, earthy hop character and Toffee.

Aftertaste:
Leaves with a coconut, raisin, chocolate, earthy hop and slight bourbon flavor. No alcohol in the taste. A sipping beer that is best enjoyed as alittle at a time.

Overall:
Exceptionally great. I think the extra cred definitely has to do with the rich chocolate flavors coming through along with the sweet bourbon, dark fruits and fruit cake and more. Amazing beer and one that is highly recommended if you can get it. Thank you once again Aaron, this was truly something very special. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Tenryuu from Kancolle/Kantai Collection was chosen in this pairing to represent the winter and dark fruit flavors of the beer. Her eyes compliment the color of the label as she carries a sword of chocolate which strikes your senses like a pleasure train. Careful though, while she may be something that you may want to consume right away as she tries to seduce you, she will strike with her chocolate vengeance. Can you see any other things that compliment this pairing?