One Way Or Another Collaboration by the Bruery Terreux and Cascade Brewing Company

October 12, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged California Meyer Lemon, Cascade Brewing, collaboration, Ino, lemon zest, Marionberries, Naruto, oak barrels, One Way Or Another, Oregon Marionberries, The Bruery Terreux, Yamanaka ino | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

One Way Or Another Collaboration by the Bruery Terreux and Cascade Brewing Company is a 9.3% ABV Belgian Sour Tripel brewed with Oregon Marionberries and California Meyer Lemon Zest and aged in oak barrels

Description:
Iconic bottles, distinctive flavors and outright admiration for each other. One way or another, we were going to brew a beer with our friends at Cascade Brewing. Together, we developed a new sour tripel recipe that we would brew at our separate facilities with each other – one here in Orange County, CA and the other in Portland, Oregon. The collaborative concept called for treating our creations with the same regional ingredients: Meyer lemons from California and marionberries from Oregon. Both brews would be destined to mature for over a year in oak under our respective roofs. At Bruery Terreux, we utilized a mix of New American Oak puncheons, fresh bourbon barrels, port barrels and oak wine barrels to create the ideal blend of flavors, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the complex, tangy tripel that emerged. Try it side by side with Cascade’s release to see how a single recipe can be interpreted One Way or Another.

Review: Rich and tart but lots of berries. Like a tart Agua fresca…. Awesome stuff

White Chocolate With Cherries by The Bruery

August 26, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Blonde Barley Wine, cacao nibs, cherries, Naruto, sakura Haruno, Sweet cherries, tart cherries, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Chocolate With Cherries | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

White Chocolate With Cherries by The Bruery is a 14.2% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans and Tart Cherries.

Label:

Take a Dip

==Introduction==

Holllyyyy shit! This beer came from left field. Especially since the already awesome White Chocolate was elevated to a new mastery with Cherries! I got a chance to try this one on tap when they had it at a Reserve Society night. The beer is exclusive to Hoarders and Reserve at the moment but slowly but surely, I am sure we will see it soon to preserve. It will be a while before the public sees it but regardless, you heard it here, let’s see how this upgrade is, cheers!

Aromas:

Super white chocolate cherry cordials, tart cherries, rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel,Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!

Flavors:

Super rich Chocolate Cherries, dark cherry yogurt, vanilla cherries, white chocolate covered cherry cordials, White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, strawberry flan, pomegranates, raspberry chambord, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!

Aftertaste:

Lingering supreme dark, tart and sweet cherries and sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice, Chocolate cherry cordials and flan. No alcohol in the taste despite the 14.2% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.

Overall:

Fucking…. Ridiculous!!! White Choco Cherry Cordials in liquid form. The original White Chocolate was already beyond the beyond but now with cherries, its definitely pure sweet dessert bliss. I love cherry chocolate beers but a white chocolate cherry beer is something like matter meets antimatter and the gates of sweet flavor oblivion open up. A damn bucket lister no doubt! Plug it into my veins and you need to plug it into your as well.

Anime Corner:

Temari Sabakuno and Sakura Haruno from Naruto were the best pairing for this beer. Temari for the original White Chocolate base beer and Sakura for the Cherries used in many of the Cherry cordial beers I have had before with the Bruery. So a beer that blends Temari, one of my favorite anime character with Sakura, a secondary favorite of the Naruto show, this blend was well complemented in my mind.

Spicy Mango Cart by Golden Road Brewing

August 21, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Eloteros, Golden Road brewing, Habanero chillies, Los Angeles, mango, Mango Cart, Mangos!, Mexican Vendor, Naruto, Seasoning, Spicy Mango Cart, Tajin, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, wheat ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Spicy Mango Cart by Golden Road Brewing is a 3.2% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Mangos with Tajin Habanero added

One of the best mango beers ever, this beer was inspired by the fruit cart vendors that sell the fruits with chile like tajin and chamoy. Of all the mango beers I have tried, none have come close to how ridiculously this taste like natural mango. I had yet to bring this one the site so when my friend brought it to an impromptu tasting, I had to take a picture and do an anime pairing. This pairing was with one of my favorite characters, Temari Sabakuno from the Naruto series. Her colors were the best for this pairing as she goes well with the yellows and oranges.

2017 Trappist Westvleteren 12 by Brouwerij Westvleteren (Sint-Sixtusabdij van Westvleteren)

August 10, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Trappist Monastery, Belgian Trappist Quadrupel, Belgian Trappists, Bleach, brouwerij westvleteren, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, Las Quad-tro Monjas, Naruto, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuuko Matoi, sint-sixtusabdij van westvleteren, St. Bernardus abt 12, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Xenosaga, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2017 Trappist Westvleteren 12 by Brouwerij Westvleteren (Sint-Sixtusabdij van Westvleteren) is a 10.2% Belgian Trappist Quadrupel.

Label:

None

==Introduction==

Westy 12 is back! It has been 5 years since the last time I tried this beer. Back then it was the best beer in the world and even to this day I still think it is the best only because of rarity but mainly because it was an inspiration of a beer for since my first time trying Belgians. The best beers in the world commonly found to me are the St. Bernardus Abt 12 next to Trois Pistoles and the Three Philosophers. This beer is still difficult to get as you have to have an exclusive invite to the Monastery in Westvleteren and can only buy a limited quantity. Also, it has been difficult to get in the states since the one incident a couple years ago where they sold it at Total Wine where scalpers took many to sell online. Essentially, this beer was the best before the new IPA trends took over. Oh how people have forgotten that the old world of beers that have been made for hundreds of years should still be the best over these new and up and coming brews. It is the reason why this style is still my favorite despite the fact that while I do believe the newer hyped beers are delicious, they are no worth an arm and a leg. Also, while this one was hyped at the time, people forget that St. Bernardus Abt 12 is literally the same recipe but commercialized so many people in the world can know about the great Belgians. This is why I love St. Bernardus 12. It is easy to find but because I rarely get a chance to try this beer. I consider it slight above the best but in the rarity category. Let’s have a look and see how this tastes after years of me not having tried it. Cheers!

Aromas:

Deep dark fruits, prunes, raisins, vanilla, burnt caramel, dulce de leche caramel, goat milk caramel, wined caramel, chocolate, wafflecone, butterscotch, toffee, marshmallow, rock candy, candi sugar, honey, piloncillo sugar cone, peppercorn, earthy hops, hazelnut nectar and golden apples.

Flavors:

Supreme rich dulce de leche caramel, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit dates, raisins, plums, figs, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, Danish cream, leather, rye, earthy hops, Stone fruit peaches, peppercorn, burnt sugar, rock candy, candi sugar, honey, piloncillo sugar cone, grapes, port wine, milk chocolate, candied apples, wafflecone, butterscotch, toffee, marshmallow, bubble gum, fig pudding, rice pudding, golden apples, hazelnut nectar, cherries, Mexican sweet bread, umami, Goat milk caramel, burnt caramel, anise notes, funnel cream cake, honey dew melon, tamarind and tiramasu.

Aftertaste:

Rich lingering dulce de leche carame, dark fruits, stone fruits, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, port wine, Danish cream, leather, rye, earthy hops and mild chocolate lingers. No alcohol in the taste, smooth, silky, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel, Dark Golden Brown medium body and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:

A definite bucket lister! Simply because it is one of those beers that you have to try to believe. Granted, I have tried this side by side with St. Bernardus and while I think this one is only slightly better, they are pretty much in that same taste profile give or take. How does this taste to my homebrew? Well, I do have to admit how damn close the recipe came out to be to the point where I surprised myself. I actually made my dream come true and while I am not a Trappist Monastery monk, I have to say I definitely have that in spirit! It is always an honor to bring this magnificent beer to the site when I can and I suggest you give this a shot, even if one. Get that off your bucket list!

Anime Corner:

Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach are chosen for very special beers. Since I first had a pairing with Temari, Kos-Mos and Yoruichi in the past, it was only fitting that I do this again but this time with Ryuko too. 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, I have used them in the previous St. Bernardus Abt 12 review except with the introduction of my recent favorite girl, Ryuko Matoi. The original time I tried this beer, it was the world’s best beer and the best Quadrupel since St. Bernarudus. It is this style of beer that grew my desire, my love and passion that lead to the the fruit of my labor with my homebrew ‘Las Quad-tro Monjas’. So heavenly fitting, my favorite top characters go with my favorite beers, especially this rarity.

Previous review:

https://animebeers.com/2012/10/29/trappist-westvleteren-12-by-brouwerij-westvleteren-sint-sixtusabdij-van-westvleteren/

Information on the Westy 12 VS. St. Bernardus 12:

http://belgianbeerspecialist.blogspot.com/2010/09/westvleteren-and-st-bernardus-real.html

My St. Bernardus Inspired Quad: https://animebeers.com/2015/03/30/las-quadtro-monjas-by-nubis-sanctum-ales/

My Westvleteren Inspired Quad (Aged In Tequila Oak and Holy Water): https://animebeers.com/2016/10/10/home-brewing-project18-la-santequilisima-quadrinidad-by-nubis-sanctum-ales/

Peanut Butter Latte from Belching Beaver

June 18, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Belching Beaver, Chocolate, coffee, Golden Stout, Naruto, peanut butter, Peanut Butter Latte, Temari Sabakuno | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Peanut Butter Latte from Belching Beaver is a 5% ABV Golden Stout brewed with Coffee, Chocolate and Peanut butter.

Label:
People love our Peanut Butter Milk Stout, and this time we put a fun twist on our classic. Thomas brewed up a milk stout that is golden in color, a real sensory trip, and loaded it with coffee and chocolate.

Then we kicked it up a notch by peanut-butterizing (is that a word?) the beer for a real treat for Winter months. Tom said, “A Peanut Butter Latte, that sounds great!” Perfect to sip on chilled nights and early mornings. We hope you enjoy this new adventure in brewing as much as we do.

==Introduction==

A White Stout?! And a Peanut butter one at that! The style is a pretty rare with the use of coffee, pale malts, and lactose gives the style some of the flavors of actual stouts but the appearance is golden like other beers. It is kind of a trick of the senses. Many of the golden stouts I have had before have been that, tastes like a stout, looks like a pale or golden beer. This one however, is the first one I have ever seen that uses other ingredients like peanut butter. While I cannot include the Red Velvet Stout from Ballast Point as a contender for Golden Stout as it is the same style but with red instead of gold, this is only for a beer that is golden in appearance. In fact, the style is awesome that I once took a shot in the dark and made a Golden Belgian Stout myself which turned out to be awesome. Anyways, the fact that this is the first of its kind it is definitely an intriguing one. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich peanut butter mocha, coffee, Danish cream, milk chocolate, vanilla, caramel, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, toffee, tiramisu, Cadburry Cream eggs, Frappuccino, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, flan, sweetened condensed milk, nutter butter cookies, cookie dough ice cream, mazapan, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, butterscotch, whipped cream and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies, Reese’s Pieces, vanilla, caramel, rye bread, biscuit bread, sweetened condensed milk, flan, marshmallows, chocolate marshmallow smores, white chocolate, whipped cream, Irish cream, Danish cream, Milk Chocolate shake, Milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, cherries, strawberries, butterscotch, almond milk, cashew milk, steamed milk, almond joy, marzipan, peanut brittle, nutter butter cookies, cookie dough ice cream, mazapan, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, mocha, Cadbury cream egg notes, maple syrup, hazelnut nectar, nutella, rocky road ice cream, frappuccino, stone fruit hints and captain crunch peanut butter cereal.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with lots of sweet flavors of chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, marshmallow, peanut brittle, mazapan, caramel, Irish cream, mocha, white chocolate, and cookie dough ice cream. No alcohol in the taste, gold and clear body, smooth, creamy, velvety and refreshing mouthfeel along with an extremely easy drinkability.

Overall:
Ridiculously pastry of a beer! Peanut Butter Tiramasu essentially. I am not sure what it is about the coffee or the fact that it is a different style but still a milk stout, it takes what I loved about the original Peanut Butter Milk stout and amps it up to a higher level. Many people that love the Peanut Butter milk stout will definitely find this one to be a step above. Lots of dessert and nutty flavors and a lot of complexity. I highly recommend it and this one is a bucket lister in my book.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from the Naruto Series was used in this pairing since I would typically use one of my favorite characters to pair with a special beer that seems worthy. For this one, the blonde color of the stout for being a stout but a golden stout, pairs with Temari’s blonde hair. While Ninjas are quick and deadly, this beer is so sweet and smooth, you won’t notice anything until you finish the bottle in one sitting. Also, since ninjas are great at stealth, for this looking like a regular beer but tasting like a stout is a mind blow!

Sources:
http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/naruto-shippuden-ultimate-ninja-blazing/images/8/80/Portrait-0289.png/revision/latest?cb=20170211021007
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2016/03/09/19/56/15/55714339_p0.jpg
http://aikawaiichan.deviantart.com/art/Temari-Card-04-664655975
http://salojazz.deviantart.com/art/Temari-naruto-shippuden-664122563
https://i.pximg.net/img-original/img/2014/01/23/15/20/27/41129113_p0.jpg

2017 Mocha Wednesday by the Bruery

March 17, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, brown sugar, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Rain, coffee, Coffee Beans, Grey Monday, Kahlua, Konan, Konan of Amegakure, Kopi Luwak, Kopi Luwak Coffee, Melange 3, Mocha, mocha coffee, Mocha Wednesday, Naruto, Portola Coffee Lab, TCHO Cacao nibs, The Bruery, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 Mocha Wednesday by the Bruery is a 19.9% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Portola Labs Coffee beans and TCHO Cacao Nibs aged in bourbon barrels.

The utmost in true choco-coffee-mocha liquid gold. I have reviewed this one many times but wanted to bring this years to light. Check out my last year’s review. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/2016/02/26/2016-mocha-wednesday-by-the-bruery/

2017 White Chocolate by The Bruery

March 17, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2017 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 13.8% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Encore:
https://animebeers.com/2016/10/14/2016-white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/

2016 La Parcela No.1 by Jolly Pumpkin

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Bleach, cacao, Ichigo Kurosaki, Inoue Orihime, jolly pumpkin, Kakashi Hatake, KON, La Parcela, La Parcela No.1, Matsumoto, Naruto, pumpkin ale, pumpkins, Rukia, Rukia Kuchiki, sakura Haruno, Sasuke Uchiha, sour, sour pumpkin ale, Spices, Tsunade | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2016 La Parcela No.1 by Jolly Pumpkin is a 5.9% ABV American Wild /Sour Pumpkin Ale brewed with Pumpkin, Spices and Cacao.

Label:

Ok, so the joke was that “Jolly Pumpkin doesn’t brew a pumpkin beer.” Well, now we do. Packed with real pumpkins, hints of spice, and a gentle kiss of cocoa to liven the soul. An everyday easy way to fill your squashy quotient. Guess now folks will have to find something else to joke about…

==Introduction==

It’s been years since I have last tried this beer. The first and I think, still the best pumpkin sour for the longest time. Since they started releasing new labels for their beer, I wanted to bring some of them back to the website. This one caught my eyes especially due to the artwork. So naturally, I had to seek it out and bring this brew back to the website. Even if it is past Halloween, these beers are awesome anytime of the year. Which reminds me how I wish sometimes that they brew them all the year round. So let us see how one of the, if not, the best pumpkin sour beers in the world is since I last tried it. Cheers!

Aromas:

peppercorn, vanilla, caramel, Stone fruit peaches, apricot, pumpkin pie, brown sugar, cinnamon, chocolate notes, piloncillo sugar cone, nutmeg, passion fruit, mango, oak, citrus, wine grapes, hibiscus, sweet potato pie, bananas and clove spice.

Flavors:

Rich Stone fruit peaches, apricot, pumpkin pie, pumpkin flesh, cinnamon, Dark chocolate, white chocolate, sweet potatoes, sweet squash, flowers, hibiscus, honey, waffle cone, bananas, piloncillo sugar cone, clove spice notes, brown sugar, funky oak, cane sugar, citrus, tangerines, kumquats, wine grapes, white grapes, nutmeg, phenolic notes, peppercorn, vanilla, caramel, sour apples, mango notes and passion fruit.

Aftertaste:

Finishing with rich stone fruit peaches, funky sour white grape notes, pumpkin flesh, chocolate, lemon peel and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, Golden amber hazy body, smooth, crisp, and effervescent mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:

Still the perfect pumpkin sour. With a name like Jolly Pumpkin for a brewery, you would definitely want to make a really delicious pumpkin beer and this is it. For the brewery that started my sour path in the beginning, this was one of the best ways to go. Since their focus is on sours, they can really get brews to taste very delicious and not strictly lactic sour. These funky tart beers are amazing and this one in particular is full of pumpkin goodness which really balances out the tartness overall. Highly recommended like other JP beers.

Anime Corner:

Naruto and Bleach characters for Halloween as well as Succubus/Devil Rukia Kutchiki were chosen for this review since the first review of this beer. So I wanted to bring them back to go with the new beer label. I think Rukia makes it better especially the one where she is inside the pumpkin and has the cat like and devil features that fit the label.

Sources:

http://orig06.deviantart.net/7716/f/2011/304/3/a/___happy_halloween_2011____by_arathar-d4em95e.jpg
http://img13.deviantart.net/5462/i/2009/297/3/9/devil_rukia_by_gray_fullbuster.jpg

http://static.zerochan.net/Kuchiki.Rukia.full.1653356.jpg

Cherry Chocolate Milk Stout by Garage Brewing Co.

February 2, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Amy Rose, Cherry Chocolate, cherry juice, Chocolate, Dark Amy Rose, Garage Brewing Company, Milk Stout, Naruto, sakura Haruno, Sonic The Hedgehog, Sweet Stout, tart cherry juice | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Cherry Chocolate Milk Stout by Garage Brewing Co. is a 7.1% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout with Chocolate and Tart Cherry Juice

Label:
We believe in making out fresh craft beer from only the finest ingredients. And guess what? It’s a perfect way to end any meal or an evening of indulgence. No need to order dessert with this flavor combination. Flavor: Sweet Milk chocolate, Cherry; Aroma: Mocha, Dark Fruit; Balance: Rich; Body: Full.

==Introduction==

I first saw this one on a social media post by Garage Brewing a while back. Being a fan of fruit beers and especially the love I have for their Marshmallow Milk stout, I had to bring this one to the site. I have had a ton of cherry beers to the site especially the ones I have made home brewing myself. Much like raspberries or blueberries, beers like that have a home here. So with that being said, I was really excited to see if this one had what it takes to compare with the best cherry stouts I have had in the past. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, tootsie roll chocolate, chocolate milkshakes, Dark fruit cherries, dark cherries, tart cherry skins, raisins, prunes, currants, blueberries, strawberry cheese cake, cherry yogurt, chocolate cherry cordial, butterscotch, brown sugar, banana and hazelnut nectar hints.

Flavors:
Sweet & Tart Cherries, Dark Cherries, Cherry Yogurt, Chocolate cherry cordials, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, tootsie roll chocolate, choco flan, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, currants, blueberries, strawberry cheese cake, marshmallow smores, chocolate cherry cake, Pancho Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, fruit cake, pecan pie, brown sugar, anise, molasses and pecan pie.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with cherry cordials, milk chocolate, flan, vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, dark fruit and dark cherry yogurt notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional beer! Very much like a cherry chocolate sweet and tart cordial. The beer is semi sweet and semi tart. A good balance of complex flavors all around. The best part too is that I think those that do not drink craft beer may really dig this one. So this may actually entice more people to drink craft beer. Just goes to prove, Garage is doing some amazing beers. The fact that this is a lot like a cherry cordial is the reason I provided the score I did. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Dark Amy Rose from Sonic the Hedgehog series was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the colors of dark cherry with a girl similar to Sakura Haruno, which Amy Rose comes to mind. Although, since this was essentially like a chocolate cherry cordial but not to the level of the Bruery’s BBL Cordial, I brought Amy. Essentially, tart dark cherry chocolate cordial light and yet still full of rich flavors.

Sources:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rVtou3oCbV4/maxresdefault.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8twpTcSTdc/WA9WqtE8G4I/AAAAAAAACxk/yorUZBQviKECzGF5swMR_TFGZHqaisMFQCJoC/w1024-h1219/tumblr_o4r8ra6bPk1uk1hd1o1_1280.png
http://img12.deviantart.net/3708/i/2015/214/d/0/amy_rose_pinup_by_proboom-d93u6do.jpg

Organic Raspberry by Samuel Smith Old Brewery

January 16, 2017 by cloudx30 tagged Fruit Beer, Melbourn Bros, Naruto, Old brewery, Organic Raspberry, Raspberries, samuel smith, Tadcaster, Tayuya | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Organic Raspberry by Samuel Smith Old Brewery is a 5.10% ABV Fruit Beer brewed with Raspberries

Label:
Handcrafted at Melbourn Bros’ tiny Brewery set in a time warp in Stamford using the old manually operated brewing equipment. Finest organically grown barley and wheat are used to create a complex ale which, having undergone primary and secondary fermentation with different yeasts and extended maturation, is taken to Samuel Smith’s small, independent British brewery at Tadcaster. There it is blended with pure organic cherry, strawberry, raspberry or apricot fruit juices and more organic beer to create fruit beers of considerable strength and flavour. The smooth distinctive character of the matured beer serves as the perfect counterpoint to the pure organic fruit juice.

==Introduction==

Samuel Smith beers are some of the best well crafted beers from England. Starting with their oatmeal stouts, Organic Chocolate and even their English Strong Stingo. These beers are common in many places where beer is sold and many people sometimes pass them up. Well, seeing as I really enjoyed many of their offerings, I decided to bring another one of theirs here. This one is the raspberry fruit beer. With my ever increasing love for raspberries and beer, this one was a must. Now that I finally have it ready for the site let’s check it out, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich raspberries, biscuit bread, citrus, strawberry vanilla, cherries, marmalade, guava hints, floral hibiscus, grapes, apricot, passion fruit and mixed berries.

Flavors:
Raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, currant, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava hints, tomato hints, floral hibiscus, citrus, biscuit bread, roses, raspberry jolly ranchers, cherry cobbler, stone fruit apricot, raspberry marmalade, toasted rye bread, strawberry sundae, vanilla and Chambord liqueur hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a tart raspberry flavors, cherries, citrus, passion fruit, biscuit bread and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, ruby red clear body, crisp, rich, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with a very easy drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer tasting exactly as intended. Essentially, this is literally pure raspberry brew. Nothing too crazy, light, and very attractive to non-beer drinkers. If this isn’t a gateway to craft beer, then there really isn’t much that can be helped. This is literally what it is going for and people that like wine and even mixed drinks will like this. Essentially, it almost feels like an alcoholic soda. Highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Tayuya from Naruto was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to go with the whole colors of her hair and tart sour attitude to go with the flavors, ingredients and label of the beer. For being a beer that seemingly, everyone, even non craftbeer drinkers, it sure looks a lot like a gate way into the awesome world of the craft beer. Tayuya, while seeming like a regular person is actually cursed to become a demon. So like very appealing as the beer maybe, too many and maybe your inner demons would come out too!

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.1675667.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.1451228.jpg
http://101.dtiblog.com/p/prprhentai/file/tyt43.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.995545.jpg

2009 Fort (aged 7 years) by Dogfish Head

December 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2009 Fort, American Strong Ale, Dogfish Head, Fort, Fruit Beer, Naruto, Raspberries, Raspberry, Raspberry preserves, sakura Haruno | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2009 Fort (aged 7 years) by Dogfish Head is an 18% ABV American Strong Fruit Ale brewed with Raspberry Puree.

Label:
Flavored ale fermented with over a ton of fresh, pureed raspberries. This flavored ale was made to age with the best of ’em.

==Introduction==

I purchased 2 of these beauty back in 2011. I had set one aside and drank that one back then. In accordance with the recommended aging for this one or 7 years, I had finally decided to drink it but drink it as close to the end of the year as possible. We are approaching 2017 and I had set the bottle date for 2016. It is now time to unleash what nature has done best for this amazing epitome of raspberries. Since 2009, I do not think they have released a 750ml 18% brew. Heck even the 120 minute IPAs and World Stouts were all in 12 ounce bottle. Of all the beers that Dogfish has ever made, this was one that was very damn close to my heart. So damn close that even to this day, I could not believe that they would release an 18% ABV of this size. No brewery at the time and aside from the Bruery, would ever release such a size for huge high gravity beer. Today I pay tribute to all the raspberry beers I have ever tried starting from this one, The Lost Coast Raspberry brown, The Dragon’s Milk Raspberry from New Holland, The Imperial Biscotti Break Umami from Evil Twin, Hoarders Cuvee from the Bruery and even my very own Raging Passio Lactus Raspear Dragons brew which was one of my top tier homebrew due to my love of this fruit. To many more Raspberry brews I have tried over the years and loved and even raspberry ciders. This goes to all, cheers and a happy 2017!

Aromas:
Supreme Raspberries, dark fruit raisins, caramel, honey, White Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, Raspberry Cadbury Chocolate and Caramel cream eggs, bananas, clove spice, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, honey, Chambord Raspberry liqueur, Red Velvet cake, Mexican Jericalla Custard, rum soaked raspberries, dark candi sugar, rock candy, Raspberry chocolate cordials, Raspberry Cheesecake, Sakura cake, sweetened condensed milk, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pomegranates, fruit cake, cane sugar and raspberry yogurt.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberries bliss, dulce de leche caramel, rich honey, dark fruit currants, blackberries, blueberries, slight cranberries, pomegranates, tropical passion fruit, dragon fruit, kiwi, strawberries, guava nectar, lychee fruit, tangerine hints, stone fruit, peaches, apricots, apples, Mexican Jericalla Custard, Raspberry Cadbury Chocolate and Caramel cream eggs, bananas, clove spice, Raspberry yogurt, raspberry preserves on rye bread, leather hints, Chambord Raspberry liqueur on Red Velvet cake, Raspberry cheesecake, Raspberries and Danish cream, berries and cream, rum soaked raspberries, dark candi sugar, rock candy, bubblegum, raspberry cream pie, wine grapes, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry membrillo, flan, milk chocolate, Raspberry chocolate cordials, coffee cake, raspberry mocha ice cream, White Chocolate Raspberry and Raspberry sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with everlasting Raspberry creamy bliss, honey, Chambord Raspberry liqueur, raspberry cobbler, leather note, rye bread, dark fruits, stone fruits, vanilla, caramel, biscuit bread, and hazelnut nectar. No alcohol in the taste. Years has mellowed the alcohol strength. Crimson Honey full body, silky creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and easy drinkability which is extremely dangerous. The process of aging has made this one so damn easy to drink, I could finish the whole bottle in one sitting. That will not be done thought. Maybe….

Overall:
Heaven knows what cellar aging has done for this beer. This beer was in no shape or form offensive. It doesn’t even feel like an 18% ABV beer anymore. It drinks like pure heaven. Hell, I’ll be damned if I drink the whole thing. Who knows, it has probably gone up to 20% ABV over the years. All I know, is that if there ever was a true treasure in the books of taste and experience for the very concept of raspberries, this here is that very treasure. It is killer, like the forbidden fruit or Pandora’s box unleashed, this hits with a ton a bricks. Seductive and Sensual but if you finish the whole bottle in one sitting, as they say in Death Battle… K.O.!!!!!!!!!!!! This beer is definitely one of my top ten beers regardless and I would suggest when you buy the 12 ounce (and the 750ml if they ever sell those again) do yourself a favor and age it for the 7 years.

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I used her for the original Fort and the 2015 Fort. Her hair and over all colors match that of the colors, flavors and the label itself with the green colors representing the eyes of the girl in the label. Sakura is not weak by any means. She has ridiculous super human strength and her punches represent that pure raspberry punch I was mentioning earlier. The alcohol is her strength and the sweetness is her desires. Since this is the 7 year, which according to Dogfish Head is the peak of aging for this one, a laid back and Sexy Sakura was in damn order. She finally woke up after her 7-year slumber as is ready to kick some ass again, just gently first.

Sources:
https://skategb.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/595882.jpg
http://www.chuing.net/zboard/revol_getimg.php?id=mfa&no=48179&num=0&fc=d920683bfdb39f570ee673b6580a4334
http://i43.tinypic.com/25d2r.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/80/c3/59/80c3596181ba95dd57c5cfee856de93f.jpg
http://aws-cf.ados.fr/prod/photos/6/6/1/7855661/2691782/big-26917823d5.jpg?v=5

Collaboration No. 6 Barrel-Aged Blend Collaboration by Boulevard Brewing and Firestone Walker

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Barrel Aged, Belgian Quad, Bleach, boulevard brewing, Bourbon Barrel Quad, Collaboration No. 6, cuvee, Firestone Walker, Imperial Stout “X” Tart Cherry, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, Naruto, Oatmeal Stout, Rye American Strong Ale, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Stickee Monkee, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Velvet Merkin, Xenosaga, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Collaboration No. 6 Barrel-Aged Blend Collaboration by Boulevard Brewing and Firestone Walker is a 12.5% ABV American Strong Ale Cuvee of Barrel Aged Stouts and Belgian Quads.

Label:
Imperial Stout “X” Tart Cherry
Bourbon Barrel Quad
Stickee Monkee
and Velvet Merkin

For this sixth edition of our Collaboration Series, we invited Matt Brynildson, brew-master of our sister brewery Firestone Walker, to join Boulevard brewmaster Steven Pauwels in our barrel-aging cave. Armed only with their palates, some graduated cylinders, and a bunch of tulip glasses, they arrived at the perfect balance of two barrel aged beers from each brewery. The blend celebrates the individual characteristics of each of the four while creating something entirely new and unique.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
The Collaboration series is our way to bring shared beer ideas to life with some of our favorite brewery friends from around the world. This year, we bring you a specially blended, barrel-aged beer with the help of our sister brewery in California, Firestone Walker. With Collaboration No. 6, Brewmasters Steven Pauwels and Matt Brynildson have created a big, bold flavor combination by blending two Boulevard beers and two Firestone Walker Beers in the following percentages:

Boulevard Bourbon Barrel Quad – 45%
Based loosely on the Smokestack Series’ The Sixth Glass, this abbey-style quadrupel is separated into a number of oak bourbon barrels where it ages for varying lengths of time, some for up to three years. Cherries are added to make up for the “angel’s share” of beer lost during barrel aging. Selected barrels are then blended for optimum flavor. The resulting beer retains only very subtle cherry characteristics, with toffee and vanilla notes coming to the fore.
ABV – 11.8, IBU – 19

Firestone Walker Stickee Monkee – 35%
Brewed with Belgian candi sugar and aged in a selection of ﬁne bourbon barrels, Stickee Monkee trailblazes its own category as a “Central Coast Quad.” The name Stickee Monkee is a nod to the Central Coast’s native Sticky Monkey ﬂower, as well as a shout¬‐out to the Belgian monks who pioneered the Quad style. The Belgian candi sugar imparts a signature molasses sweetness to the beer. Meanwhile, maturation in bourbon casks brings ample barrel expression with notes of toasted oak, coconut, leather and cigar tobacco.
ABV – 13, IBU – 45

Imperial Stout X – Tart Cherry (Whiskey Barrel-aged) – 10%
Our special treat for lovers of big, complex stouts, the Imperial Stout “X” series offers a year-long roster of limited releases, each with a significant variation. This riff spotlights the addition of tart cherries to fermentation as well as a lactic souring on the brewhouse. The result is a perfect marriage of robust, smoky maltiness and bracing tartness. Unlike the release version of Imperial Stout X – Tart Cherry, this portion was briefly aged in previously used whiskey barrels.
ABV – 11, IBU – 64

Firestone Walker Velvet Merkin – 10% Velvet Merkin is the beer that almost wasn’t…Indeed, this vintage oatmeal stout’s comical (or is it scandalous?) name went oﬀ the grid for several years, but now it’s back due to popular demand. Velvet Merkin is aged for a full year in retired spirits barrels from Heaven Hill, Woodford Reserve and others, yet manages to oﬀer mind-¬boggling balance and restraint. You will wig out when you taste Velvet Merkin’s rich milk chocolate, bourbon and espresso ﬂavors, preceded by aromas of vanilla, coconut, toasted oak and mocha. ABV – 8.5, IBU – 33

==Introduction==

Just when I thought I’d never see something like this, I was really amazed. At first I saw it as a Boulevard and Firestone Walker collab but when I realized that it was a Cuvee of some of both breweries best beers, I realized that this was a must get. I have reviewed each of these beers in the past, except for the Tart Cherry Stout X but the other ones were definitely at that World Class tier beers. So being that Firestone Walker was involved, I knew this would of came up to possibly be one of the best and unique Cuvees. Now, we can only hope that this is the case, let’s have a sip, cheers!

Aromas:
Grilled Bananas, Banana Sunday, clove spice, fruit cake, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, Rich Dark Cherries, Dark fruit, prunes, plums, figs, raspberries, currants, Dark chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Ferrero Rocher Chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, tobacco hints, molasses, stone fruits, Oatmeal Cookies, Oreo Cookies and Cream, graham cracker, Marshmallow smores and mocha.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Cherries, Dark fruit, prunes, plums, figs, raspberries, currants, bourbon, whiskey, brandy, oak, Belgian Candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, maple syrup, waffle cones, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Grilled Bananas, Banana Sunday, clove spice, fruit cake, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, rye bread with mixed berry preserves, Oatmeal Cookies, Oreo Cookies and Cream, graham cracker, Marshmallow smores, mocha, Flan, Sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, Dark chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Ferrero Rocher Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate cake, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, Cherry Chocolate cake, walnut pie, toasted coconut, Stone fruit peaches, leather and tobacco hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dark cherries, vanilla, dulce de leche, oatmeal cookies, dark fruits, stone fruits, dark chocolate, Belgian candi sugar, marshmallows, tobacco hints and rye. No alcohol in the taste. Dark Crimson Amber full body, smooth, creamy, velvety, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The Quad aspect takes over more than the stout blend but even that being the case, it does not change this from being a definite bucket lister in my mind. Having Firestone Walker who are experts at barrel aging and cuvee blending, this is no surprise that this came out the way it did. The complexity of the 2 Belgian Quads and the 2 Stouts collide into a super decadent dessert that really has taken things to another level. I highly recommend this one for those that are fans of these breweries, beers and styles! This is one for the masses!

Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Kos-mos from Xenosaga, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach and Temari Sabakuno from Naruto were chosen as I wanted to represent the 4 awesome beers blended in this special cuvee to 4 awesome characters. What a better way to pair than to pair with the most epic forms for my favorite 4 girls from anime. In this instance I used Ryuko as the Tart Cherry X Stout as the colors of cherry pair, KOS-MOS is the BBQuad since quads are holy ambrosia of gods and she is angelic, Yoruichi is the Velvet Merkin as she is deep, magical and mysterious and finally, Temari is the Stickee Monkee as she represents the colors of the actual flower that grows along the central coast.

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 9 Ladies Dancing, Belgian Dark Strong Ale, cacao nibs, coffee, Lactose, Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Naruto, Overwatch, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Twelve days of Christmas, Twelve Days of Christmas series, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with cacao nibs, vanilla, coffee and lactose.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

The Ninth Verse of Our Twelve Beers of Christmas series dances with flavors inspired by tiramisu. Happy Holidays!

Here’s a pick me up for the latest verse in our Twelve Days of Christmas series. Inspired by flavors and ingredients found in tiramisu, including ladyfingers, 9 Ladies Dancing mimics the Italian dessert by whipping together flavor combinations and layers of its own. This includes notes of vanilla, chocolate and coffee – clearly the leading ladies in this rich, dessert-like beer.

==Introduction==

The Bruery has recently released their latest Christmas beer to the public and should be hitting many distribution areas publicly where they sell The Bruery beers. An Italian dessert inspired beer huh? I still can’t believe it has been so long and in four more years, the Christmas beer saga comes to a conclusion. Every year they release amazing beers. What I find intriguing though is that they use some of the ingredients that I used in my Sangri Leche beer. These are the Lactose, Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa Nibs. Plus, it’s a Belgian Dark Strong so that makes me think about the flavors. But why wait, let’s see how it is, cheers!

Aromas:
Belgian candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, sugar plums, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark fruit prunes, raisins, dark cherries, coffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, lactose, Bananas, clove spice, tiramisu, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, honey, maple syrup and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Rich Coffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, lactose, Bananas, clove spice, Tiramisu pastry, flan, dark fruit prunes, raisins, dark cherries, Belgian candi sugar, rock candy, piloncillo sugar cone, sugar plums, capirotada raisin bread pudding, butterscotch, rye bread, toffee, Dulce de leche caramel, ginger bread man, Danish cream, Irish cream, crème brulee, Kahlua Liqueur, stone fruit peaches, peach cobbler, apricots, peanut butter, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, honey, maple syrup, biscuit bread, tobacco hints and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with coffee, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, dark fruit, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, stone fruit, pecan pie and toffee. No alcohol in the taste, dark crimson amber full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very Exceptional brew! I can honestly say this did remind me of 2 creations I made. The Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell which was a Belgian Golden stout with the same ingredients as this one as well as the partial ingredients used in Sangrileche Belgian Stout. Using Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa nibs does come through when used well and can make many beers even more decadent and complex. Which makes me believe that it may add the necessary complexity or in some cases dominate the flavors of the rest of the beers. In this instances, it balanced out made for one awesome complexity. Definitely get this holiday brew, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Naruto Girls, Mahou Shojo girls and Overwatch girls were all chosen for this pairing to essentially be the 9 ladies dancing. Every year I try to find pairings that match the number of gifts from the Christmas song. It is does get difficult at times but other than going with the theme, there really isn’t anything else specific that matches the pairing unless you can infer some of the colors do match.

Sources:
http://65.media.tumblr.com/734581b30e3a75e6baa874e38f85afec/tumblr_njv7tlkmns1t5cwh1o5_1280.jpg
http://orig11.deviantart.net/4944/f/2016/246/5/c/ladies_of_overwatch_by_minacream-dagbj56.jpg
http://www.theanimegallery.com/gallery/image:185903/

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Imperial Stout, American Strong Ale, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, cherries, Cordial BBLS, cuvee, Dark Cherries, Dark Sakura, inner Sakura, Naruto, sakura Haruno, So Happens It's Tuesday, tart cherries, Tart of Darkness, The Brue, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux is a 12.3% ABV American Strong Cuvee of Bourbon Barrel aged Imperial Stout, Sour Stout and Imperial Stout with cacao nibs, cherries and vanilla.

Commercial Description:
Blend of Black Tuesday, Tart of Darkness and So Happens It’s Tuesday with cacao nibs, cherries & vanilla

==Introduction==

Hot Diggity Damn! The BBLs has been hard to come by. Not all versions of these special Melange type blends actually make it to bottles nor do they make it to even reserve members. This special blend was a tap room exclusive and it was one I could not pass up especially since they actually allowed the purchase of it via a 32 ounce growler. Knowing the Bruery for making beers that taste exactly or super close to what they say it would, I think nothing less that this would taste like an actual Cherry Chocolate Cordial especially with the ingredients used. Tart Cherries, vanilla and cacao nibs. Let’s take a look and see if it’s true, cheers!

Aromas:
Tart Sour Cherries, Dark chocolates, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, Toasted coconut, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate cheesecake, cherry mazapan and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Sweet and Tart juicy cherries, dark cherries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian chocolates, Dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, Toasted coconut, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, blueberry muffin, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, port wine, bourbon, marshmallow smores, oak, flan, chocolate cherry cake, fudge cake, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, chocolate cheesecake, chocolate mousse, Pancho Pantera cherry choco milk shake, bananas, butterscotch, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, graham crackers, rocky road ice cream, mint, cherry marzipan and cherry sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Lots of rich chocolates, rich dark cherries, rich dark fruits, vanilla, hazelnut hints, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, port wine, tart grape notes, coconut notes and bourbon. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewey mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Amazingly ridiculous. A bucket lister if they ever put it in bottles. This beer is ridiculous. The tartness from the cherries balances out the sweetness from the chocolate and vanilla that it makes it decadent. I definitely think this should actually be their next bottling as it is too damn perfect. I don’t know if they will have this one at the Bruery by the time the review comes out but I am hoping that if you ever see this one, do not skip out on it. It was definitely worth the pick up to bring it to the site and I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto as I wanted to pair the colors of dark chocolate cherry and she seemed to fit the bill just nicely. Like biting into a plumpy Choco cherry cordial, this beer is damn irresistable. The tart sour aspects come from her attitude as well as her inner rage known as Inner Sakura. This beer is no joke and the strength wielded by its ABV can be deadly and bliss at the same time.

Sources:
http://www.chuing.net/zboard/revol_getimg.php?id=mfa&no=48179&num=0&fc=d920683bfdb39f570ee673b6580a4334
https://skategb.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/595882.jpg
http://photos.hdlandscapewallpaper.com/anime/naruto/naruto2670.jpg

2016 White Chocolate By The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2016 White Chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | 1 Comment

2016 White Chocolate – The Bruery’s White Oak Wheat Wine with Cocoa Nibs and Vanilla Beans. I have reviewed this one many times so I figure this year, I leave it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/…/2015-white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/

Home brewing Project#18 La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad by Nubis Sanctum Ales

October 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Dark Candi Sugar, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Quadruple, Belgian Quadrupple Ale, Belgian Trappist Monastery, Belgian Trappists, Bleach, cane sugar, Dark Belgian Candi, dark fruits, dreams do come true, French Oak, Herradura Añejo Tequila, Holy water, Home brewing, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, kosmos, La Santequilisima Quadrinidad, Las Quad-tro Monjas, Las quatro monjas, Mexican Cane Sugar, Naruto, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Plums, Ryuko Matoi, Sangria, Temari Sabakuno, Tequila, Tequila Barrel Aged, Tequila Oak Aged, The four Nuns, The SancTequilified Quadrinity, Trappist, turbinado sugar, Xenosaga, Yoruichi Shihouin | 1 Comment

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!

Renewal by 4th Tap

October 10, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 4th Tap, agua fresca, American Pale Wheat Ale, Mei Terumi, Naruto, Pale Wheat Ale, Renewal, Tamarind, Tamarindo, wheat ale | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Renewal by 4th Tap is a 5.8% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Tamarind

Label:
Tart, energizing, curious, and refreshing.

==Introduction==

I cannot recall the last time I had a beer with Tamarind other than the Jolly Pumpkin Forgotten Tales of the Last Gypsy Blender Series 1 Volume one which had both Mango and Tamarind. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.com, we bring forth the next brew in the line from 4th tap. A rare ingredient in beer but a major ingredient in Mexican drinks, candy and cuisine. I love tamarind and definitely worth a try for a home brew. This is the second brew from 4th tap that I have had while the Sorghum one was interesting, I cannot pass judgment on a brewery unless I try more. With this one however, I think I can very well say that I will be able to tell how good this is in terms of tamarind. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Tamarind, sugar cane, mild dark fruit raisins, stone fruit hints, pecan hints, citrus, lemon, peppercorns and coriander hints.

Flavors:
Rich tamarind, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, plums, toffee, Cane sugar, biscuit bread, rye bread, coriander hints, citrus, lemon peel, lemon grass, stone fruit mango, peach, musty grapes, agave nectar, raspberry hints, cranberry hints, pecan pie hints, cinnamon hints, ginger ale, peppercorn, clove spice hints, tropical fruit papaya hints, passion fruit hints and dragon fruit hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes sweet and slightly tart with hints of tamarind and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, honey colored clear body, crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious brew. Super-duper refreshing and the type you can have several for the summer. This one definitely shined with tamarind. The tamarind wasn’t over powering in terms of being the dominant flavor but the combination with the style of beer its surely gave way to other complex flavors that I could try to find. I highly recommend this one for sure and get several if you can find it. Definitely a gate way for those that love Agua Fresca de Tamarindo.

Anime Corner:
Mei Terumi from Naruto was chosen for this pairing as I wanted not only to pair with the tamarind colors but the color of the label tool. Her laying down next to the waterfall goes well with the label. Some people use waterfalls to meditate or relax as the sounds definitely become a form of therapy for many. So renewal is definitely a them with the art pairing. Her brown hair is for the tamarind.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/332362-4000×2248-naruto-studio+pierrot-mei+terumi+%28mizukage%29-rikamello-single-highres.jpg

Cherry Bexarliner by Freetail brewing

October 7, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Berliner Weisse, Berlinerweisse, cherries, Cherry Bexarliner, Freetail Brewing, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Montmorency tart cherries, Naruto, sakura Haruno | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Cherry Bexarliner by Freetail brewing is a 5.8 ABV Berlinerweisse brewed with Montmorency tart cherries

Label:
None!

==Introduction==

Freetail from Texas is another awesome brewery that we don’t get beers from here in California. Thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com, I am able to present another beer from them. The last Bexarliner brew that I had from Freetail was the Peach Bexarliner a while back. That one was awesome! This one is the Cherry variant and seeing as I loved the peach one, I can only hope it is just as or more awesome than the Peach version. Freetail brewery is another one of Texas best. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of cherries! dark cherry yogurt, tropical fruit pineapple, honey dew melon, passion fruit, dragon fruit hints, prickly pears, strawberries, cranberrries, pomegranates, grapes, plums, oranges, tangerines, wine grape hints and banana hints.

Flavors:
Rich Deep dark and light, sweet and tart cherries forward, cranberrries, pomegranates, grapes, plums, oranges, tangerines, apples, pears, dark cherry yogurt, coriander spice, lychees, lemon peel, lemon candy, biscuit bread, peppercorn, waffle cone, bananas, wheat bread, tropical fruit pineapple, honey dew melon, passion fruit, dragon fruit hints, prickly pears, strawberries, wine grapes, oak, sangria, concorde grapes and salty tejuino maize drink hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with rich vanilla, tart cherries, wafflecone, biscuit bread, lemon peel, peppercorn, banana hints, oak and wine grapes. No alcohol in the taste. Hazy honey and mild rose colored full body, smooth, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Damn perfect Berlinerweisse. Unlike other Berlinerweisse that borderline the sour funk, this one carefully treads over super tart flavors while embracing the sweet fruity passion of the cherries. I feel I love this one more than the Peach Bexarliner although that one was very delicious in its own way. This one is a definite winner especially if you love cherries and sour ales in general so for that, I’m giving it my high approval.

Anime Corner
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was chosen in this pairing along with an original character as I wanted to showcase the cherry colors of rosey pinks and flavors. Since it is Freetail and its relations to bats and the occult (kind of) I chose to use somewhat of a demonic looking character but also Sakura looking kind of evil. Also, her looking like Kaguya Otsutsuki with the horns/rabbit years also works too. Seduction is somewhat of an evil thing too but when it comes to beer, seduction is delicious! Just like this one is.

Sources:
http://icarus.silversky.moe:666/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pixiv-46878086.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/7e/c7/16/7ec716e0986c9206c7e19aeae1747ccc.jpg
https://cloud.virink.com/15/04/09/e8b80efb1a2bcaeedf46325a2f274883.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/eCheLcd.png

Feeding The Fanatics by Monkish brewing

October 6, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged amarillo, attack on titan, Citra, DBZ, Dragon ball, Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Multiverse, Dragonball Z, Edward, Fairy Tail, Feeding The Fanatics, Full Metal Alchemist, Goku, india pale ale, IPA, Kill-LA-Kill, Kirito, Luffy, Mikasa Ackerman, monkish brewing, Naruto, Naruto Uzumaki, Natsu, New England IPA, one piece, One Punch Man, Ryuko Matoi, Saitama, Simcoe, Sword Art Online II | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Feeding The Fanatics by Monkish brewing is a 7.1% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with Citra, Simcoe, and Amarillo hops.

Label:
None!

==Introduction==
Released as a taproom exclusive, Monkish has changed its ways for the better good. Since the beginning, they were a brewery exclusive to the Belgian styles of brewing. They even had a sign that used to say NO IPAs! Until recently, they have tested their brewing art and applied to making IPAs. They somehow stumbled upon an east coast secret of hazy New England style IPAs. Essentially, the orange juice and tropical fruit and pulpy hop bombs. I say that because the beers are so hazy and so juicy that they are exactly like if you are drinking juice. Since I tried King JJJuliusss by Tree House a while back, I have an idea of what they are about. Especially since Heady Topper as well. This combined with the fact that Monkish has been releasing IPA cans exclusively at the brewery and creating a very coveted market, their IPAs are extraordinary. Unfortunately, for me, I think I have lost interest in waiting for can releases. You see, it has become very hyped up that people are actually staying overnight on some Fridays before can releases in order to get a chance at a 4 pack of gold. They pretty much sell out really quick. So, when they said they would release one of their IPAs on tap only and growler fill option, I had to see what this “hype” was all about. The name alone describes how big their IPAs have become. They have to feed the masses or “fanatics” like a cult of IPA praise that there really is not enough of these delicious beers to feed the other masses that do not want to camp out for beer releases. Monkish is a gold mine! Essentially, to the degree that they are most likely Pliny and Heady Topper hype killers at this point until other breweries can make such juice bombs just like Tree House or Trillium to name a few. So here I have a pour from a growler fill and I will tell you, what I think of this so called, Gold… cheers!

Aromas:
Tropical fruit guava, mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pineapple juice, kiwi, prickly pears, pomegranates, honey dew melon, papaya, cranberries, cherries, tangerines, lychee, kumquats, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, lemon starbursts, orange starburst, lemons, limes, orange juice, lemonade, lime aid, tang, tampico orange juice, raspberries, cane sugar, agave nectar, stone peaches, apricots, dank, garlicky, floral, herbal and grassy hops, basil, lemon grass, vanilla and tangerine gummies.

Flavors:
Rich orange juice, lemonade, lime aid, tang, tampico orange juice, raspberries, cane sugar, agave nectar, stone peaches, apricots, dank, garlicky, floral, herbal and grassy hops, basil, lemon grass, vanilla, tangerine gummies, tropical fruit guava, mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, pineapple juice, kiwi, prickly pears, pomegranates, honey dew melon, papaya, cranberries, cherries, tangerines, lychee, kumquats, orange bang, orange juice pulp, grapefruit pulp, orange blossom honey, almond cream, cashew cream, biscuit bread, Danish cream, sweetened condensed milk, lemon starbursts, orange starburst, lemons, limes, grapes and tropical fruit smoothies.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich tropical and citrus fruit flavors that just linger for a very long time with rich hop dankness, honey, sweetened condensed milk hints, honey and more. No alcohol in the taste, Hazy Pale Honey medium body, crisp, clean, smooth, refreshing and velvety mouthfeel with an easy drinkability.

Overall:
Seriously though, what Vatican Deep Vault Scrolls did Monkish unearth to make these grandeur IPAs. Apparently, they somehow brought the magic of the east coast and blended some West Coast mysteries into it because this is damn insane. IF the can releases is making people wait outside on different Friday nights to camp for a Saturday Can release, it must be something that is definitely out there. This must be proof as the fact that this was the first time they released it on tap that soon, there will be enough beer for even distribution to the masses. I will not say this is the best beer in the world, NO, but I will say this type of beer style is definitely up there with my top 10s. Sorry, I love my Belgians to be a hop head but I am a lover of all styles and IPAs are a love of mine as well. Regardless, I honestly think while the beer is supreme and I hope to see more in the future, I would still not camp out to get these beers. Unless you really want to, I say give it some time before this or any other of their IPAs are released to the public or find a way to trade for it. These beers have a low shelf life, even lower than West Coast IPAs so you definitely have to enjoy them fresh. If Monkish still has this beer on tap and you happen to be around the town. GO GET THIS!… This one is a bucket lister… I’m sure their other ones are too.

Anime Corner:
Anime Justice League by artists Wizyakyza (link in the sources) which includes anime characters Kirito from Sword Art Online 2, Naruto from Naruto, Natsu from Fairy Tail, Ryuko Matoi (maiwaifu LOL) from Kill La Kill, Saitama from One Punch Man, Mikasa Ackerman from Attack On Titan, Goku from Dragon Ball/Z/GT/Super, Edward from Full Metal Alchemist and Luffy from One Piece were all used as a statement. The masses seem to be moving forward toward some kind of IPA hop juice Utopia and the name signifies that people will stop at nothing to this brew. Maybe the secret isn’t so secret at all as some home brewers have attempted to mimic some of these beers. However, for being a beer that I damn enjoyed so much (maybe not the way I enjoy my favorite best beers in the world like my Quads and Belgian Dark Strongs or Barrel Aged gold) I still wanted to create a parallel between what people in the craftbeer world are wanting versus what people in the anime world are wanting. A true collision of Beer and Anime awesomeness!!

Sources:
http://wizyakuza.deviantart.com/art/hmmmmmmm-587323705

White Chocolate Grand Cru by Six Rivers Brewery

October 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Strong Ale, German Hellertau Hops, Humboldt Chocolate White Chocolate Nibs, Maris Otter 2 Row Malt, Naruto, Six Rivers Brewery, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Valencia Orange Peel, White Chocolate, White Chocolate Grand Cru, White Chocolate Nibs | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

White Chocolate Grand Cru by Six Rivers Brewery is a 10.2% ABV Belgian Strong ale brewed with Humboldt Chocolate White Chocolate Nibs, Valencia Orange Peel, Maris Otter 2 Row Malt, and German Hellertau Hops.

Label:
Brew #4000

Description:
A Belgian Tripel brewed with all imported malts, Domestic hops light Belgian candi sugar, Valencia orange peel & white chocolate

==Introduction==

A Tripel with white chocolate? YES! For as little as we get to see white chocolate beers, I always like to bring them to the site as I love white chocolate. This time, a beer that uses white chocolate nibs. I do not know how White Chocolate nibs are made as white chocolate in essence is not really chocolate. It does not contain chocolate but cocoa butter, milk sugar and in some instance vanilla. White chocolate nibs on the other hand, unless they are using white chocolate pieces, there is a rare set of white chocolate nibs according to article here (http://www.mediaite.com/food/eric-ripert-rare-white-cocoa-nibs/) that states: white cacao beans “are mutations that happen when trees are left undisturbed for hundreds of years,” resulting in a “more mellow-tasting, less acidic chocolate” that happens to be “extremely expensive.” So, if Six Rivers is actually White Cacao nibs, which I don’t have enough research to prove, then it would make for one of the rarest beers in the world! That being said, I lean toward this being white chocolate chunks really. Either way, for the love of white chocolate, let’s have a look at this beer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruits, peaches, plums, apricots, oranges, white chocolate, peppercorn, tropical fruit mango, pine apple, honey dew melon, kiwi, tangerines, lyche fruit, papaya hints, cane sugar, phenolic notes of bananas, honey, tres leches/ 3 milks, milk sugar, pears, apples, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, flan and marshmallow.

Flavors:
Orange peel, Belgian Candy sugar, coriander, White chocolate notes, peppercorn, Stone fruit peaches, plums, apricots, biscuit bread, vanilla, white grapes, grapefruit hop notes, tropical fruit mango, pine apple, honey dew melon, kiwi, phenolic notes of bananas, Danish cream, wheat bread, tangerines, lyche fruit, papaya hints, cane sugar, sweetened condensed milk, flan, marshmallow, honey, tres leches/ 3 milks, milk sugar, pears, apples and crème brulee.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with lots of stone fruit, earthy and citrucy hops, orange and tangerines, white chocolate notes and Danish cream. No alcohol in the taste, golden light body, crisp, refreshing, smooth and velvety mouth feel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect and very delicious Tripel. The compliments of orange and white chocolate fits very well. Reminding me similar to the White Chocolate Ale which was an American Wheat Ale by Sonoran Brewing, this one is more into the phenolic and Belgian candi sugar kind of brew and ofcourse, the style is Belgian. It fits very well almost reminding me of the Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell beer I made but without the coffee and replace it with orange peel. I really enjoyed this one and suggest you get this one if you love Belgian styles.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto was used in this pairing since I love white chocolate like I love Temari. She is one of my favorite characters, but mainly since I love using her in White Chocolate beers ever since The Bruery’s version, I like to bring her to these reviews. Also, the fact that in some of her attire, she looks like a Japanese Buddhist monk, she fits well with the aspect of Monks and Belgian Tripels. Not to mention the fact that the colors overall of the beer and the label fit so damn well.

Sources:
http://t07.deviantart.net/Ringte-dv1dUrqS7E6Qv0nQ-6aE=/fit-in/700×350/filters:fixed_height(100,100):origin()/pre06/5822/th/pre/i/2014/352/a/6/temari___sunagakure_by_dicenete-d8ackud.jpg
http://jonin-temari.ru/uploads/posts/2013-01/1359541928_temari_by_juniorbunny-d51lhsj.jpg
http://img13.deviantart.net/ae78/i/2016/001/2/7/temari_by_abremson-d9mai57.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/–yapFBGgEug/VQyp5zLgnJI/AAAAAAAABAA/9VMwtTm3Tzo/w600-h846/IMG_6260.JPG

2016 Chimay Grande Reserve Ale Barrel Aged by Bières de Chimay S.A

August 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged akatsuki, american oak barrels, Belgian Dark Ale, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, Belgian Trappists, Bières de Chimay S.A, Chestnut barrels, Chimay, chimay blue, chimay grande reserve, Chimay Grande Reserve Ale Barrel Aged, Chimay Peres Trappistes Grand Reserve 2012, Chimay Reserve, cognac, Cognac Barrels, French Oak, french oak barrels, Konan, Konan of Amegakure, Naruto | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2016 Chimay Grande Reserve Ale Barrel Aged by Bières de Chimay S.A is a 10.5% ABV Belgian Trappist Dark Strong Ale aged in French Oak, American Oak, Cognac and Chestnut Barrels.

Label:
The “Grande Reserve” Aged in wooden casks is an exceptional beer that benefits from triple fermentation and extended maturing in barrels. Unfiltered, unpasteurized, this beer has an incomparable rounded, wooden flavour.

Ingredients: water, barley malt, wheat, sugar, hop, yeast. More info: Chimay.us/barrel

Commercial Description:
The barrel-aged Chimay Bleue of March 2016 stands out from classic Chimay Bleue thanks to the many nuances provided by the additional fermentation in wooden barrels.
On the eye, the beer boasts a deep brown robe with a bright glint. It’s extremely fine and smooth foam also possesses a slight shade of cream.
On the nose, notes of black tea, jasmine and wood are equally predominant.
On the palate, the woodiness cloaks the bread crust, roasting, mocha and Cognac aromas as well as the empyreumatical notes.
This 2016 edition of barrel-aged Chimay Bleue boasts an excellent blend of the characters of Chimay Bleue and Cognac. This balance between roundness and powerfulness is best appreciated between 6 months and 1 year after it is bottled.

Type of Barrels

For this second batch, a mixture of barrels has been used.
38% of French oak – second utilization
22% of American oak – second utilization
22% of new cognac barrels
18% of new chestnut
Produced in limited amounts using craft-brewing methods.
The sophisticated bouquet is perfectly showcased when served at a temperature of between 10 and 12°C.
Alcohol content: 10.5%

==Introduction==

I obtained this one at my local shop. Having tried the St. Bernardus abt 12 Oak aged, when I first saw this, I thought I must have it. I couldn’t be driven to buy this thought. At a $40+ price, it just seemed way too expensive. Yes, it is Chimay. One of the best and world renounced Belgian Dark Strong ales but this time, in the barrel aged form. I actually passed this one up several times because of the price. It wasn’t until I talked to my friend Richard Avila about this beer that it was clear what I had to do. He had mentioned that, for a lover a Belgian brews, this is something very special and maybe not to try it, might be missing out on something that could well be loved by the community. He said I should try it for the fans of my work to see if they would be intrigued to get this one. This along with the fact that it was aged in several barrels and not just a single or a double but quadruply barrel aged. It was definitely a moving feat. So without further ado, I finally bring you, the Barrel Aged Chimay Blue Reserve.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, prunes, dates, dark cherries, red wine sangria, Belgian dark candy sugar, Amber candy sugar, cane sugar, rock candy, grilled bananas, clove spice, toasted coconut, piloncillo sugar cone, pecan pie, hazelnut, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, port wine, Mexican Dulce de leche Cajeta, leche de cabra, tres leches/ three milks cake, flan, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, bananas and clove spice.

Flavors:
Rich Dark candy sugar, Amber candy sugar, cane sugar, rock candy, oak, vanilla, cognac, dulce de leche caramel, crystalized caramel, piloncillo sugar cone, Mexican Dulce de leche Cajeta, leche de cabra, tres leches/ three milks cake, flan, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, prunes, dates, dark cherries, dark cherry yogurt, pecan pie, hazelnut, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, port wine, Chambord raspberry liqueur, marshmallows, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, almond joy, earthy and herbal hops, pilsner grain, fruit cake, molasses, anise, chestnut cake, red wine sangria, waffle cone, graham crackers, grilled bananas, stone fruit peach, apricot, clove spice, chocolate oatmeal cookie and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich dark fruits, oak, caramel, vanilla, marshmallows, port wine, red wine, pecan pie, chestnuts, cognac notes, stone fruits, dark candy sugar and earthy hop notes. No alcohol in the taste, Abysmal Dark Crimson full body, smooth, syrupy, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Even for the price, this exceptionally delicious bucket lister was just damn amazing. It has been a while since I tried Chimay Blue and the Reserve. Essentially, staples in my early days of craft beer Belgian experience. This one, just takes it to a whole new level. I have tried many Belgian Dark Strongs, all amazing and all over the top. This, however, this is some new godly potion. There is so much going on and all of it is so damn appeasing. Definitely, this one is to save for a very special occasion and supremely and highly recommended to all lovers of the Dark Belgian Arts.

Anime Corner:
Konan from Naruto was chosen in this pairing to represent the Chimay Blue colors but her Akatsuki outfit also represents the Monks of Belgian of which compliments this beer’s Trappist origin. Also, the fact that she can create angel wings also coincided with the divine beverage that this really is. In a way, the quadruple barrel aging is really a way for her to “unleash”!!

Sources:
http://bellbell2345.deviantart.com/art/Konan-622565109
http://images.forwallpaper.com/files/images/d/df7f/df7fc741/272209/konan.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/307111
http://i.imgur.com/fUYcfGc.jpg

White Chocolate by Sonoran Brewing

May 26, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wheat, Naruto, Sonoran Brewing, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

White Chocolate by Sonoran Brewing is 4.7% ABV American Wheat Ale brewed with White Chocolate.

Label:
Are you #@%&! serious, this tastes just like white chocolate, but its not. Or is it?

Why worry about the details of what is or isn’t, when you can just sit back and enjoy all of the things that make our White Chocolate Ale so damn delicious. While you’re at it, let’s think
about all the cool stuff we did today (or didn’t do). Either way this is the perfect time to find yourself.

==Introduction==

I got this one at Downey Liquor in Downey California. I had heard about this one a long time ago and never got a chance to try it despite the fact that I was looking for White Chocolate brews at the time. I had settled for the White Chocolate from the Bruery and White Chocolate Moohoo from Terrapin. So when I saw it locally, I had to get this one right away. While this is not a dark brew, it is a White Chocolate brew I have not tried and now that I remember, possibly the first one I had ever heard of long ago. So let’s see if this one is worth the find. Cheers!

Aromas:
Honey, Vanilla, Danish cream, Marshmallow, white chocolate, coriander spice, citrus, tangerine candy, tropical fruits, stone fruits, coconut, clove spice, flan hints, coffee cake, pears, 3 milks cream, banana and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
White Chocolate, rich Marshmallows, Oranges, Coriander spice, chocolate milk shake, tangerine gummies, biscuit bread, banana, clove spice, honey, coconut, cookie dough ice cream, flan, tres leches/ 3 milks, crème brulee, piloncillo sugar cone, Pancho Pantera Milk chocolate shake, tropical fruit honey dew melon, lychee, dragon fruit, stone fruit peach, pears, apples, butter scotch, milk sugar, red velvet cake, vanilla, coffee cake and Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with Milk chocolate shake notes, marshmallows, white chocolate, vanilla, banana notes, honey, oranges, and honey. No alcohol in the taste, honey colored hazy medium body, crisp, velvety, clean and refreshing mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very delicious wheat beer that hits that perfection mark really due to that velvety white chocolate flavor. That and the fact that I really love these one off beers that taste like they say they are going to taste. Surprisingly, the whole white chocolate aspect works well with the style of beer. Which reminds me as to why the White Chocolate from the Bruery (Wheatwine) also works so damn well. Definitely worth the find and also isn’t too offensive for new craft beer drinkers.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto was used in this pairing to go with the colors of the label but also the whole aspect of White Chocolate. While she has represented to me the majority of all the White Chocolate beer pairings, having her pair with the colors worked out really nicely. The monkey in this pairing meditates like a monk and while Temari is not a monk, in some parts of the series, her attire kinda looks like a Japanese Monk. Might be a stretch though.

Sources:
http://public.by3301.livefilestore.com/y2pcsKI33F41G24E0OWdX9-7siZEUwyeb6NF7dqVVak9ji1yy2FCMBjJ8ry7lbua9ao_omH8COp7viaQ8Pm5c8UJrOh7h4-DHdhM2-cyDOirJA/JJDouGa.COM_254251_4545D712_2048x1536.jpg
http://orig08.deviantart.net/83fb/f/2016/003/1/a/temari_by_dandonfuga-d9mm3wb.jpg

Not Your Father’s Ginger Ale by Small Town brewery

March 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged ginger, Ginger Ale, Naruto, Not Your Father's Ginger Ale, Small Town brewery, Spiced Ale, Terumi Mei | Leave a comment

Rating: 3.75/5

Not Your Father’s Ginger Ale by Small Town brewery is a 5.9% ABV Spiced Ale brewed with Ginger.

Label:
This is beer flavored with spices. We like to think of it as a refreshing ale with ginger, best served chilled or poured in a glass over ice. We know you’ll enjoy it, we do.

==Introduction==

I picked up a 6 pack at local Lucky’s grocery store near my house. Having enjoyed the rootbeer they first released, I wanted to try out their new creation and see how it fared. They will be releasing a vanilla cream one so I definitely want to check that out. I realize this is not beer so my rating is based not in terms of beer but just what I think of it. Let’s check this one out. Cheers!

Aromas:
Vanilla, honey, butterscotch, ginger spice, lemon, lime soda, apple notes and cane sugar.

Flavors:
Ginger spice up front, honey, butterscotch, vanilla, cane sugar, lemon, lime soda, apples, cane sugar, peach notes, peppercorns and green tea hints.

Aftertaste:
Ginger spice is present in the aftertaste finishing very dry with cane sugar hints.No alcohol in the taste. Clear golden light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel and very easy to drink.

Overall:
A pretty good Ginger ale. It really just taste like a regular ginger ale soda. The flavors and spices mask the alcohol extremely well. For this being an alcoholic ginger ale, they nailed it pretty well. Although it is not in the regular beer or ale category for sure. Their root beer was the same although I liked that one more as a root beer. This one was enjoyable regardless and would recommend a try.

Anime Corner:
Terumi Mei from Naruto was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair a ginger with a ginger ale, simple as that. Since I have not used her in a beer pairing, I thought it be the perfect opportunity to do so. Also, her bathing suit pairs well with the beach scenery of the label.

Sources:
http://img03.deviantart.net/be24/i/2015/020/2/d/mei_in_bikini_by_abrem008-d8erhko.jpg

2016 Mocha Wednesday by the Bruery

February 26, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, brown sugar, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Rain, coffee, Coffee Beans, Grey Monday, Kahlua, Konan, Konan of Amegakure, Kopi Luwak, Kopi Luwak Coffee, Melange 3, Mocha, mocha coffee, Mocha Wednesday, Naruto, Portola Coffee Lab, TCHO Cacao nibs, The Bruery, White Chocolate | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Mocha Wednesday by the Bruery is a 19.4% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Portola Labs Coffee beans and TCHO Cacao Nibs aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
MORNING AFTER

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

Mocha Wednesday is a perfect follow up to a Black Tuesday. Layers of artisan dark chocolate and bold coffee collide (especially when consumed fresh) thanks to cacao nibs from San Francisco’s TCHO and OC’s own Portola Coffee lab.

==Introduction==

Mocha Wednesday is back and this time, like last year, it is released to Reserve and Hoarders society. I think as time continues, it will slowly be released onto Preserve society and maybe one day, publicly. Like the other Black Tuesday variants I have tried before, these are some of the best beers in the world. Hence, since I have tried them and this one a couple of times, this is the last review I will be doing of this brew. I believe after a while, the reviews start to get repetitive. If I had tried them at their finest, anything less would just be quality control over the brews. Which the Bruery has had to separate facilities to alleviate the issues they had run into in the past. With that being said, I definitely recommend this one right off the bat. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark, Belgian, German, sweet, bitter, milk, fudge and baker’s chocolates, Kahlua coffee, Kopi Luwak Coffee, mocha, java, espresso, Dulce de Leche caramel, vanilla, flan, hazelnut nectar, cashew butter, maple syrup, pecan pie, pecan pie, Bailey’s Irish cream, rocky road ice cream, fudge, chocolate chip cookies, molasses, oak, brown sugar, mint, anise, toasted coconut, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, cherries and almond joy.

Flavors:
Very Mocha forward, fancy coffee, Kahlua coffee liqueur, java, espresso, Kopi Luwak, bourbon, oak, rum hints, vanilla beans, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit cherries, currants, raspberries, raisins, figs, plums, blueberries, milk chocolate dark chocolate, baker’s chocolate, bitter and sweet cocoa, Belgian chocolate, German Chocolate, chocolate cherry cordials, toasted coconut, mint chocolate chip ice cream, Bailey’s Irish Cream, almond joy chocolates, anise, brown sugar, chocolate mocha flan, sweetened condensed milk, hazelnut nectar, cashew butter, maple syrup, pecan pie, coffee cake, double chocolate cherry cake, port wine and fudge brownies.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with fancy mocha Kahlua coffee, rich dark chocolates, dark fruits, caramel, cherry chocolate and coffee cake and bourbon notes. Slight alcohol burn going down but none in the taste. Pitch black full body, ridiculous smoothness, creamy, velvety, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with a moderate drinkability. Yeah imagine that, be careful not to finish the bottle in one sitting. Wine stoppers are your friend.

Overall:
Definitely a lot more reminiscent of Rue D’Floyd for some delicious godly reason. Yes, that coffee chocolate cherry ambrosia they made in 2014. For being the last time I review this brew, this is one hell of a way to go out with a Mocha Wednesday bang! Yes, there is not much else I can say about this brew that has become one of the best along with the other Black Tuesday variants in the series. Heck, I had to try and stop myself from finishing the whole bottle. The brew was damn ridiculous and I enjoyed every damn minute of it even for a 19% ABV. I highly recommend you get this one along with any of the “Weekday Series”. Mind BLOWING!

Anime Corner:
Konan of Amegakure from the Naruto has returned like in last year’s review and she is looking mighty gorgeous as the beer has allowed to give way to stronger and richer sweet mocha flavors. They got that right. The alcohol shows her unique strength. The perfect pairing idea came from the label and a need to find one of my favorite characters to fit. Her blue hair and hazelnut eyes fit perfect with the beer label colors. Her strength is not the only thing that matters, but the rich sweet aspects of her flavors characterizes the deep love she has for her friends Nagato and Yahiko (Also known as Pain). The rarity of this beer is the rarity of her discipline. For the smallest times you do get to see her fight, she is a bad ass ninja. Hence the reasons her smoothness and seduction will make you pay greatly later on if you try to consume her in one sitting. Patience is virtue!! Aside from these aspects, if you know this character or can even guess what other aspects of this pairing complement each other?

Sources:
http://kriscounette.k.r.pic.centerblog.net/vbjyttlo.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/EpwlvJR.jpg

Pineapple Sculpin by Ballast Point

February 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Ballast Point, india pale ale, Naruto, pineapple, Pineapple Sculpin, Temari, Temari Sabakuno | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

Pineapple Sculpin by Ballast Point is a 7% ABV India Pale Ale brewed with Natural Pineapple Flavor.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Hopped in 5 different stages, this beer has flavors of apricot, mango and lemon. But this isn’t your regular Sculpin IPA – this version has the addition of 100% fresh pineapple pure to create a new twist on an old favorite.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one at one of my local shops. With the release of another awesome Sculpin variant, I had to definitely bring it to the website. The different ones have elevated the original gold standard to new heights. The IPA community has been changing so much that even Sculpin is not number 1 anymore. While it is a fan favorite even for me, this is just another step in innovation of the brew market as new hop breeds are being made which bring new flavors to IPAs. Even with that being said, nothing wrong with making the gold standard into higher standard. Aside from that, I really want to try this pineapple one and recommend you do the same or at least after this review.

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, Pineapple hints, tropical fruit mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, papaya, honey dew melon, grapefruit, citrus, piney, herbal, floral and grassy hops, biscuit bread, vanilla and toffee.

Flavors:
Rich Pineapple notes, grapefruit, citrus, piney, herbal, floral and grassy hops, tropical fruit mango, dragon fruit, passion fruit, papaya, honey dew melon, guava notes, prickly pears, cherries, biscuit bread, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, lychee fruit, lemon starburst, tangerine gummies, cocada Mexican coconut candy, Malibu Rum hints and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Flavors linger of pineapple, mango, tropical fruits, stone fruits, biscuit bread, floral and piney notes.No alcohol in the taste. Clear golden body, smooth, crisp, clean and refreshing mouth feel with a easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious that just became more perfect as it warmed up. Initially, I did not give it a chance too much in the colder temperatures but as it warmed up, more of the pineapple and tropical fruit sweetness melded together with balancing out the hop bitterness. The only reason it did not get a perfect in my opinion is because I have had more delicious Pineapple IPAs. This is definitely one to must have several. It is still very good and most likely will be a common. This definitely takes the original sculpin to a new level of awesome and makes it even more tropical than what it was before.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto and one of my top 4 favorite anime characters was used in this pairing as I always wanted to pair a pineapple beer with Temari. Quite simply since Temari’s hair is reminiscent of pineapples. She’s damn cute and her character complements the bitterness of an IPA as she tends to be cold at times but kind hearted the majority of the time. I also enjoy how the artworks pair well with the label and the sculpin fish which Temari wearing the googles and slanted almost looks like the fish itself. Anyways, I really like how this turned out for sure.

Sources:
http://narutoclan.ru/_ph/635/2/224230581.png
http://media.animegalleries.net/albums/userpics/57294/Pineapple.jpg?=123

Razzy by Community Beer Company

February 12, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Community Beer Company, Naruto, Raspberries, Razzy, sakura Haruno, Witbier | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Razzy by Community Beer Company is a 5.5% ABV Witbier brewed with raspberries

Label:
Razz begins as our World Beer Cup Gold Metal-winning Witbier, a year-round offering. After primary fermentation, we add natural raspberry puree to create a secndary fermentation.

The fresh raspberry character melds perfectly with this gently spiced Belgian-style wheat beer.

==Introduction==

Obtained this brew from my friend Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. I am really looking forward to this one as I think fruit beers are awesome. So basically I saved the best for last? I hope it is. This is the first time I try a brew from Community Beer Company and surely a good way to start with a raspberry brew. Cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peach, apricot, citrus, wheat bread, banana notes, clove spice, honey, raspberry notes, brown sugar, apples, vanilla and grapes.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberry, Coriander, citrus, wheat bread, banana notes, clove spice, honey, peppercorn notes, Belgian candi sugar, stone fruit peach, apricot, mango hints, apples, bubble gum, grapes, vanilla, raspberry cobbler, brown sugar, rock candy and phenolic notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with raspberries, bubble gum notes, phenolic notes, citrus and stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, grapefruit colored full body, crisp refreshing and smooth mouthfeel and easy to drink

Overall:
A very good raspberry brew. Light overall with the raspberry being a driving factor that I think is what allowed me to give it a decent score. It is not in your face raspberry sweeteness but the slight complexity of the beer is enough to keep it interesting and very drinkable. Certainly something I would be able to drink several of. I would recommend a try!

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I wanted to do another Raspberry brew. I guess I am on a roll with using her on raspberry beers since she has the colors. In this pic, I wanted something subtle to pair as it is a light brew. Hence the bright colors and how the label looks like an exploding raspberry.

Sources:
http://zenithomocha.deviantart.com/art/Sakura-kimono-361717803

Naránjdanos Celestiales by Nubis Sanctum Ales

February 5, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Dubbel, Blueberries, Candi Sugar, Coriander, Home brewing, Jiraiya, Konan, Nagato, Naránjdanos Celestiales, Naruto, Nubis Sanctum Ales, oranges, Yahiko | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Naránjdanos Celestiales by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 6 %ABV A Belgian Dubbel brewed with Oranges, Blueberries, Soft Candi Sugar and Coriander spice.

==Introduction==

Project# 13 was an idea for a beer which combined the flavors or Orange and Blueberries. The name of the beer comes from the Spanish combination of Oranges or Naranjas and Blueberries or Arandanos. The fusion of the two and the fact that this is a Belgian Dubbel, like the ones Monks make in Abbeys, lead to the name of the Celestial OrangeBlueberries or Naránjdanos Celestiales. Originally, I was shooting for a chocolate orange and blueberry beer, but my friend Juan suggested otherwise in which case I did not add the chocolate. Namely being, he reminded me other delicious blueberry beers I had tried in the past. So to make the Blueberries stick out well with the oranges I also added coriander spice which frankly, with the orange zest, gave this fruity pebbles type of aromas. All and all, fermentation went through well and people seemed to love this one. Now, I take my personal thoughts on this one. Let’s take a look.

Aromas:
Tart Blueberries, fruity pebbles hint, oranges, tart grapes, candi sugar, tangerine hints, brown sugar, lemon candy, stone fruit hints and dark fruits.

Flavors:
Blueberries, Candi Sugar, Coriander spice, caramel, biscuit bread rye bread, tart grapes, citrus, orange zest, lemon candy, dark fruit raisin hints, figs, plums, tart cherry notes, sugar cane, brown sugar hints, apple notes, stone fruit apricot, peaches and tangerine notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with some candi sugar notes, tart blueberry notes, citrus, coriander spice, tart fruit pebbles.
No alcohol in the taste, Orange Honey full body, crisp, refreshing and silky mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A very good light Dubbel. While I think the tarty blueberry adds some complexity, ultimately it has to be drunk at close to room temp to get more complexity. In cold temps it is easy to drink with tart and the citrucy notes. While I think this was good, I don’t think orange and blueberry may have not paired too well, only slightly. I think if I make this again, I might use a different fruit to pair with the orange or I think I will add the chocolate next time. Eitherway, still a delicious little homebrew.

Anime Corner:
Konan from Naruto was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the ingredients of the oranges and blueberry flavors and colors as you can see from Konan’s hair and eyes. The fact that she is wearing a cloak is like the ones monks wear as this is a Belgian Dubbel so it definitely goes with the style. My intention with this beer is to pay tribute to Jiraiya’s original team of Nagato (Red like the body), Konan (Blueberries) and Yahiko (Oranges with the Orange Hair). All these characters were important in the Naruto Series.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Konan.full.1168065.jpg
http://narutoclan.ru/_ph/618/2/165912823.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/NARUTO.full.1817405.jpg

Ruebarb (Windowsill’s Return?) The Bruery Terreux

February 4, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Blonde, Naruto, oak barrels, Raspberries, rhubarb, Ruebarb, sakura Haruno, sour, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Windowsill | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Ruebarb (Windowsill’s Return?) The Bruery Terreux is a 6% ABV Sour Belgian Blonde aged in Oak Barrels with Raspberries and Rhubarb

Label:
Snappy – Fruity – Oaky

Commercial Description:
If you’re looking for a beer that tastes like grandma’s cooking, look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a beer that is jam-packed with nostalgia, you’ve come to the right place. Ruebarb is an oak-aged sour blonde ale with red raspberries and rhubarb. Bright berry kernels break and give way to a tart, jammy sweet flavor. Mildly bitter herbal and floral notes accompany the raspberry-rhubarb combo as it alternates between sweet and sour. Beer and dessert have never tasted better together.

==Introduction==

Released to the Reserve Society and Hoarders Society by the Bruery. When I first saw this brew and its ingredients, I could only think of the Rhubarb Pie beer I had from them called Windowsill. It has been some time since I tried that beer but the fact that is made with the same ingredients, I could not get away from the fact that I think this is Windowsill’s successor. There is not much to tell from the description or from the Bruery from what I can tell, but I will go with what I know. Let’s take a look at this brew. Cheers!

Aromas:
Danish cream, Stone fruit apricots, peaches, dark fruit raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, raisin hints, blackberries, fruit cake, grape wine, oak, vanilla, waffle cone, brown sugar, cranberries, funky hay hints, floral hibiscus, lavender, herbal Rhubarb, guava and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich tart raspberries dark fruit cherries, boysenberries, raisin hints, grape wine, oak, vanilla, waffle cone, brown sugar, cranberries, strawberry preserves on toasted bread, caramel, citrus, lemon peel, honey, butterscotch, pecan pie hints, funky hay hints, floral hibiscus, lavender, herbal Rhubarb, guava flavors, Danish cream, Stone fruit apricots, peaches, blackberries and fruit cake notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with lingering hints of tart raspberry, oak, rhubarb, vanilla, strawberries and stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, crimson light body, effervescent, crisp, refreshing and tangy mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability

Overall:
Delicious in many ways. Sweet and sour. Liquid pie flavors with sour notes. I really think this is essentially Windowsill. There is a lot of stuff that reminded me of the original release of the beer. The rich Raspberry and Rhubarb blends well with so much of the other complex flavors in somewhat of a tarty balance. With that being said, I think if you love sweet and sour beers, this one is awesome!

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I have used her in the pairing to Windowsill. Seeing as the ingredients were so similar and me believing this is the predecessor to windowsill, I figured it was a good way to go about it as she does pair well with the colors of the label, ingredients and complex flavors. Sexy and sweet like this brew! Cheers!

Sources:
http://moecharaga.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/000566.png (18+)
http://img15.deviantart.net/8f6a/i/2015/085/8/e/sakura_haruno_by_aechanart-d8n6db9.jpg

2015 Fort by Dogfish Head

January 22, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Strong Ale, Dogfish Head, Fort, Fruit Beer, Naruto, Raspberries, Raspberry, sakura Haruno | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 Fort by Dogfish Head is an 18% ABV American Strong fruit Ale brewed with Raspberry Puree.

Commercial Description:
An ale brewed with a ridiculous amount of pureed raspberries (over a ton of ’em!). Fort has a Belgian-style base, then we follow a similar fermentation process to the one we use on our other super-high ABV beers, 120 Minute IPA and World Wide Stout.

==Introduction==

The return of one of my favorite Raspberry beers ever! Dogfish Head released this beer back in 2007 and 2009. I don’t think I had seen it since the last time it came out but back then it was one of the strongest beers I have ever had at the time. They released it as a 750ML so basically it would be hard to consume alone. I didn’t give a jack! So rich and juicy this was. Now on 2015, they released it once again in 12 ounce bottles. The original 750ml bottle was pricey so does not surprised me why they only sell one at a time. For 18% ABV, that’s pretty ridiculous though. Anyway, I do plan to review this beer again as I have one I bought back in 2007 and sometime this year or the next it will be at its height of aging. Let’s see how it will fair. So now, on to the review!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruits like raisins, raspberries, figs, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, honey, caramel, vanilla, cane sugar, bananas, clove spice, Chambord raspberry liquor, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, honey dew melon, candy sugar, rock candy, cream pie, bubble gum, port wine notes, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry cheese cake and sweetenend condensed milk.

Flavors:
Rich Raspberries, rich honey, caramel, vanilla, cane sugar, burnt caramel, toffee, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, tropical fruits like, lychee, guava, kiwi, dragon fruit, passion fruit, honey dew melon, stone fruit apricot hints, peaches, apples, Sakura cake, raspberry maple syrup, raspberry cheese cake, sweetenend condensed milk, wine grapes, rich Chambord raspberry liquor, leather notes, rye bread, port wine notes, raspberry soaked in rum, bananas, clove spice, candy sugar, rock candy, cream pie and bubble gum.

Aftertaste:
Rich raspberry, honey, caramel, vanilla, biscuit bread, dark fruits, stone fruits, raspberry cobbler, leather notes, rye bread and lingering Chambord Raspberry liqueur. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Crimson Honey clear body, silky, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
The glorious punch of pure raspberry power! To this day, this is the best Raspberry beer ever. I don’t down play any others since Raspberry beers rule but this… this is on some god level shit… Dogfish Head made a real winner here that I wish to see again and again. So after 9 years since I got the 750ml bottle, I think the time to bring it to the site will be soon. For the meantime, go find this!!

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing as I used her for the original Fort. Her hair and over all colors match that of the colors, flavors and the label itself with the green colors representing the eyes of the girl in the label. Sakura is not weak by any means. She has ridiculous super human strength and her punches represent that pure raspberry punch I was mentioning earlier. The alcohol is her strength and the sweetness is her desires.

Sources:
http://wallpaperfullscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Haruno-Sakura-Wallpaper-HD.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/kuronekoplus/imgs/9/a/9a1b2c4c.jpg
http://orig12.deviantart.net/7ac6/f/2011/295/b/8/sakura_haruno_by_serathus-d2ol72w.jpg

2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery

December 23, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged 2015 White chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 16.6% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
OAKALATE

This sumptuous version of our barrel-aged wheat wine style ale has an addition of fresh vanilla beans and TCHO cacao nibs.

White Chocolate is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may evolve pleasantly over time if cellared properly.

Notes/Commercial Description: (per beeradvocate)
The primary component of our “White Oak” ale is a 100% barrel aged wheat wine that we affectionately refer to as “White Oak Sap.” Essentially a “summer” barley-wine style ale, but made with a wheat heavy grain base, White Oak Sap is aged in used bourbon barrels for nearly a year and comes out rich in flavors of coconut, honey, caramel and vanilla. To compliment the already rich flavors of the beer, we’ve added cacao nibs and vanilla beans to give this beer the delicate flavor of white chocolate…hence the name.
___

Was available to Preservation and Reserve members for December 2015, the almighty white chocolate has returned. Unfortunately, like the 2013, the 2014th version ended up getting sour if not consumed fresh. I will say this much as my version did not sour at all after taking it out of the cellar. Something I had mildly regretted as I would have to wait patiently to replace the empty spot with another White Chocolate. This year, with the separation of facilities (All Sours are made at The Bruery Terreux) we should not see this type of situation happen again. This decadent piece of liquid chocolate white has been on one of my top favorites of all time in terms of rare beers and Now that it back in town, I have to come clean. Just like Black Tuesday, this will be the last time I review this magical brew. Sad, but I think I have made an important point over the years as why I love this beer so much. Heck, even my banner has this beer. So I bring it forth one last time, one of my all time favorites in my quest to seek the truest of the truest, White Chocolate! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel,Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples,, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!

Flavors:
White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!

Aftertaste:
Lingering sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice
No alcohol in the taste despite the 16.6% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.

Overall:
Supreme, Luscious and Exquisite. Even for trying the 2014 version almost a year later and it did not sour on me (lucky?) the 2015 is damn promising. Even stronger in and more delicious than that of the 2014. White Chocolate, despite not being the new Melange 12, it is still a major component that still supreme. Mind blowing as always and a constant reminder of the love I have for it and my patiently waiting for it. Like many before, a bucket list beer along with Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain the Wineification variants, Grey Monday, Melange 3 and my newest favorite, Melange 12, certainly all a must try.

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto is no mystery to this beer. She has appeared in all the instances I try this beer and may do so even if someday I decide to review the beer again. Temari is simply and awesome ninja as I stated in previous reviews. She represents the color of the beer blonde to gold as in the color of her hair. She represents a partial tropical aspect in terms of the White oak that is added which I refer to “Raw as The Sun” but subdued by the overall sweet chocolate and vanilla which are pretty intimate to me. Temari’s strength is also in the ABV and just like a ninja, will flow easy if you try to consume her in one sitting. White Chocolate Temari, I Love You Chiquita!!! :3

Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapersdesktop.com/Anime/Naruto/images/Naruto%20Wallpaper%20257.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2015/01/12/584231/fd464741294dd813f56956bd2fecde55.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/6829/i/2013/234/f/b/temari_happy_birthday__by_rikamello-d6jbbmw.jpg

Imperial Cabinet collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Jester King

December 5, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, collaboration, Imperial Cabinet, jester king, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Naruto, Oak aged, Spices, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Imperial Cabinet collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Jester King is an 8.3% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with spices and aged in oak barrels

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Many things can happen when collaborating breweries come together. Like us and Jester King. We both share a deep affinity for sour and wild beers. But rather than rest on our laurels, we challenged ourselves to brew a beer reminiscent of a nearly forgotten, early 20th century cocktail, the Ramos gin fizz, employing our wildly traditional methods to do so. We began with some of the cocktail’s signature ingredients – lemon, lime and orange citrus fruits, botanicals and sweeteners (sorry, no egg whites) – and then let our collaborative brewing process run wild. The result is laden with herbal and floral notes, bright lemon and lime zest, orange blossom honey, vanilla, warm oak and comforting spices. The Ramos gin fizz is a hard cocktail to find, and when you do, it takes 10 minutes to make. Our collaboration with Jester King will be similarly elusive; however, it took nearly a year in the making.

==Introduction==

Released for the Bruery’s Reserve and Hoarders Societies, this beer would bring one of Texas best breweries, Jester King, to birth a beer that would probably just as coveted as wen Three Floyds toured last year. My friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com has sent me some very awesome stuff from Jester King and even had his wedding reception at the brewery. It is no joke that Jester King is one of the best when it comes to complex saisons and wild ales just like Jolly Pumpkin up in Michigan. So for this beer, I really want to see how The Bruery and Jester King minds bring forth something awesome. Let’s do this!

Aromas:
Funky notes, farmhouse hay hints, vinegar sour, black tea, lemonade hints, floral notes, hibiscus, roses, poppy, lavender, rich vanilla, oak, stone fruit apricots, mango, lemonade hints, biscuit bread, anise, coriander, gin hints, herbs, mint tea, yerba buena, salt, tejuino maize, peppercorns, Juniper berries, caramel, citrus, lemons, lime, Danish cream, candy sugar hints and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Lots of floral notes, hibiscus, roses, poppy, lavender, rich vanilla, oak, caramel, citrus, lemons, lime, salt, tejuino maize, peppercorns, Juniper berries, tart stone fruit apricots, honey, waffle cone, farmhouse hay hints, vinegar sour, black tea, lemonade hints, biscuit bread, anise, coriander, gin hints, herbs, mint tea, yerba buena, Danish cream, candy sugar hints, brown sugar hints and old mango.

Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with oak, vanilla, stone fruit, tart lemons and flowers. No alcohol in the taste, clear honey colored body, crisp, effervescent and refreshing mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A Perfect sour. While the overall beer is a sour, some hints of fruity and floral notes do come through but just a touch to cleanse out the sourness. It was a damn fine collaboration and I feel that many people that love sours will find it’s strong herbal, vanilla and oak flavors to really pop with this one. I think some time would do wonders, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Kaguya Otsutsuki from Naruto was used in this pairing to represent what is inside the Imperial Cabinet. Reminiscent of Pandora’s Box, Kaguya was sealed long ago in the series and when the world was set into the infinite illusion of sleep by Madara Uchiha, he did not realize that he opened that very box (basically unsealed her) and thus Kaguya was back. The beer’s name and the complexity it represents goes along with the originator, Kaguya, who was basically the mother of all the Shinobi powers in the series. Sour and evil but the sweetness and complexity of the beer do showcase some of Kaguyas traits.

Sources:
https://hdwallpapers.cat/wallpaper_high_contrast/kaguya_ootsutsuki_fantasy_girl_hornes_art_high_contrast_hd-wallpaper-1823783.jpg
http://pre01.deviantart.net/ad47/th/pre/f/2014/175/9/e/kaguya_ootsutsuki_by_olggah-d7mr064.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/NARUTO.full.1748450.jpg

Stone 19th Anniversary Thunderstruck IPA by Stone Brewing

August 28, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged AC/DC, AC/DC Beer, anniversary ale, Australian Hops, Double India Pale Ale, Double IPA, india pale ale, IPA, Naruto, passion fruit, Stone 19th Anniversary, Stone Brewing, stone fruit, Tayuya, Thunderstruck IPA | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Stone 19th Anniversary Thunderstruck IPA by Stone Brewing is an 8.7% ABV Double India Pale Ale brewed with 100% Australian Hops.

Label:
Ella, Galaxy, Topaz, Vic Secret-no, these aren’t the names of the performers at your local “gentleman club” (at least as far as we know). Rather, these exotic, and admittedly rather sexy, Australian hop varietals that have been dancing on the minds and pallets of the craft brewing intelligentsia around the world of late. We’ve been openly flirting with them via test batches, and they become popular around or brewhouse thanks to their sensual flavors and aromas. So in developing our celebratory anniversary beer, we decided it was time to seal the deal and take these down under wonder beauties to the main stage at Stone. And what better way than allowing them to strut their stuff in the spotlight as the sole focus for the luscious tropical, peachy, citrus like flavors and slightly residence, aromatically dank earthiness of the special, all Aussie consummation! Also invited to the stage as a special guest performer is Fairview malt which we had shipped in from Australia especially for this brew.

As you’ll discover, this beer brings the boom, delivering it to the pallet in a volume is thunderclap back by the power of our 19 years of brewing and passion and intensity. All told, a great kick off to the veritable beer storm that will be our 20th year of brewing. We have many special beers plan for release to celebrate, so let this serve as the first course to what will be in undoubtedly epic feast for craft beer enthusiasts, with particular thanks to those who’ve been with us from the long haul and helped us obtain such longevity. Consider this the first of many thank you’s for years to come!

==Introduction==

The AC/DC tribute beer, maybe not the actual endorsed one but tribute none the less. This is awesome as many bands are endorsing their own beer like Iron Maiden. As stone celebrates their 19th Anniversary, it is an honor to bring their anniversary ale to the site and see how this Australian hopped IPA really “strikes” the flavor palate. This one you can pick up at any retail that sells stone beers or atleast the majority retails that sell stone beers. Cheers to Stone and many more years to come as they release many good beers.

Aromas:
Rich tropics like dragon fruit, passion fruit, papaya, pineapple, tangerine, strawberry, raspberry, Citrus, Grapefruit, herbal, garlicky, oniony, flowery, earthy, piney, grassy and dank hops, sweetened condensed milk hints, prickly pears, honey dew melon, peppercorn notes, biscuit bread, banana notes and Stone fruit apricots hints.

Flavors:
Rich Citrus, Grapefruit, herbal, garlicky, oniony, flowery, earthy, piney, grassy and dank hops, stone fruit apricots, peaches, lychee fruit, cherries, raspberries, lemons, dragon fruit, passion fruit, papaya, pineapple, tangerine, strawberry, raspberry, sweetened condensed milk, prickly pears, honey dew melon, peppercorn notes, biscuit bread, banana notes and honey hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishing semi dry with nice tropical fruit, stone fruit notes and distinct garlicky and dank bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, Clear Golden Orange body, Crisp, refreshing, Easy to drink despite the ABV.

Overall:
Well, for making a delicious Tropical IPA they deserve the merit. It is not like some of my favorite tropical beers out there but it has some nice character especially since these are all Aussie ingredients. Especially with a name like thunderstruck, it strikes the palate as I thought with tropical notes but also very much so some dank dank bitterness. A hop heads love for sure and a recommend. Why not, its Stone’s Anniversary after all, cheers!

Anime Corner:
Tayuya from the Naruto series was used in this pairing as I wanted to show case the gargoyle using a demon girl. While Tayuya is not a demon normally but turns into a demon using a level 2 curse technique, she mesmerizes like the way this mesmerizes with the sweet flavors. The way she jumps backward is almost like the sense of the name. She is getting out of the way of the thunder strike as it crashes onto the glass and then splashes into the palate to really electrify the senses with hoppy greatness! Oh and the colors definitely complement the beer and its closer to berry flavors too!

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.1836222.jpg

Mélange 12 by Bruery

July 7, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, anniversary ale, beer nirvana, best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon vanilla, Bruery, bucket list, Cacaonut, Chocolate Rain, cocoa nibs, cuvee, dark fruits, Diabetes in a bottle, Grey Monday, Hazelnuts, kick the bucket list, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, kosmos, Melange, Melange 12, Melange 3, Naruto, Papier, Ryuko Matoi, Ryuoko Matoi, Tcho cocoa nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, Toasted Coconut, vanilla beans, vanilla spice, White Chocolate, White Oak, White Oak Sap, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

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!

St. Bernardus Abt 12 Oak Aged by Brouwerij St. Bernardus

June 26, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Ambrosia, Apple Brandy, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Quadruple, Belgian Quadrupple Ale, Bleach, brandy, Brandy Barrel Aged, Brandy Barrels, Brouwerij St. Bernardus, bucket list, Calvados Apple Brandy Barrels, Calvados Barrels, kick the bucket list, Kill-LA-Kill, Naruto, Ryoko, Ryuko Matoi, St. Bernardus, St. Bernardus Abbey, St. Bernardus abt 12, St. Bernardus Abt 12 Oak Aged, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Xenosaga, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/5 * A bucket list beer, just saying 😛

St. Bernardus Abt 12 Oak Aged by Brouwerij St. Bernardus is an 11% ABV Belgian Quadrupel Aged in Oak Calvados (Apple Brandy) Barrels

Label:
Brewery St. Bernardus was founded in 1946 in Watou, Province of West Flanders in Belgium.

St. Bernardus Abt 12 is Brewery St. Bernardus’ flagship and is considered as one the best beers in the world. The Abt 12 is brewed following the original recipe from 1946.

This St. Bernardus Abt 12 Oak Aged is brewed using the same recipe and then matured for 6 months in oak Calvados barrels before it is bottle coditioned. This maturation in oak kegs gives the beer a deeper and richer taste, leaving the palate remarkbly satisfied and thirsty for more.

“Bringing Heavenly nectar within reach”

Serve this noble and wonderfully balanced brown ale at 53-56° F in a goblet glass to best enjoy its delicate bouquet.

==Introduction==

Never did I ever think that St. Bernardus would step up their game and release a barrel aged version of their Quad. Not just any barrel either, but the Calvados Apple Brandy barrel. Beers that usually are aged in these barrel jump 100 times the price of the original beer. Good thing this one just doubled the price. By that I mean it is still pricey as hell ranging anywhere from 25-30$ for a 750ml bottle. I didn’t care. I just just didn’t care as unlike any beer from the past, the St. Bernardus is a beer that always held a special place in my heart as it was my favorite when I first started trying different beers as early as 2010 and to this day I can always go back and say it is still my favorite despite the fact that there are others like the Weekday Bruery beers that are levels above it, it still don’t matter. Even after trying the Heady Toppers, the Dark Lords, even the Westvleteren 12… still didn’t matter… Abt 12 was my beer along with Trois Pistoles and Three Philosophers and others… So you can see the fact that this exist must be testament to my resolve not only as a reviewer but for myself and what I truly love and even to my first quadruple that I personally made… Cheers from this is like Cheers of the Heavens!

Aromas:
Rich Dulce de leche caramel Apple pie, Brandy oak, vanilla, Goat milk caramel, marshmallows, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, raspberry chambord, tamarind, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peach cobbler, mango, pie crust, Dark Candi sugars, Belgian Bread, Danish cream, Rock Candy, figgy pudding, piloncillo sugar cone,Bananas, plantains, clove spice, bubble gum notes, raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, cinnamon, flan, Mexican sweetened condensed milk, Red Apples, Golden Apples, Caramel apples, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, cherry pie and burnt brown sugar.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Goat milk Caramel, piloncillo sugar cone, vanilla, oak, marshmallows, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, raspberry chambord, tamarind, Bananas, plantains, clove spice, bubble gum notes, raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, cinnamon, flan, Mexican sweetened condensed milk, Red Apples, Golden Apples, Caramel apples, Brandy, Port wine, chardonay, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peach cobbler, pie crust, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, cherry pie, dragon fruit, passion fruit, old mangoes, honey dew melon, butterscotch, chocolate notes, tangerine preserves, tobacco, leather, anise, grilled funnel caramel cake, Dark Candi sugars, Belgian Bread, Danish cream, Rock Candy, figgy pudding, Rich caramel Apple Pie goodness with vanilla cake and more.

Aftertaste:
Lingering Apple Pie, dark fruits, stone fruits, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Apple brandy, port wine, Danish cream, leather, rye and mild chocolate lingers. No alcohol in the taste, smooth, silky, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel, Dark Golden Brown medium body and a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
No surprise why this version of one of my favorite (commonly available) beers in the world is simply another one I needed to add to my bucket list of beers. The original St. Bernardus was my inspiration for making the original quad I made a couple of months back as it was one of my favorites in the world while started trying different craft beers along with Trois Pistoles, Three Philosphers and many delicious others. This version is something that really took it above the heaven into that “Ambrosia of the Gods” status. I really didn’t care about the price, I really wanted to bring this one for a review ever since its announcement and I finally did it! I think the whole Calvados/Apple Brandy aspect is what really did it here taking this liquid caramel into an Apple Pie beer goodness. Who knows what will happen to this in … 15 years!

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, I have used them in the previous St. Bernardus Abt 12 review except with the introduction of my recent favorite girl, Ryuko Matoi. Like I said before, the original version of this beer was my world favorite, my desire, my love and passion that became my favorite style of beer and today, the fruit of my labor with my homebrew ‘Las Quad-tro Monjas’. Yes indeed, I don’t have to explain much about this and long time readers can already infer why I choose them. The greatest of the greats.

John Paul Jones Peanut Butter & Raspberry Jelly by Brew Rebellion

April 21, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Bleach, Brew Rebellion, Imperial Stout, It's Peanut Butter Jelly Time, John Paul Jones Peanut Butter & Raspberry Jelly, John Paul Jones Stout, Naruto, PBJ, peanut butter, Peanut Butter Jelly, Peanut Butter Jelly Sandwich, Raspberries, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, Yoruichi, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

John Paul Jones Peanut Butter & Raspberry Jelly by Brew Rebellion is a 10.2% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Raspberries and Peanut Butter.

Label:
Everyone Enjoys a rebellious spirit now and again.

==Introduction==

It’s Peanut Butter Jelly Time, Peanut Butter Jelly Time! Where you at? Where You at? Now there you go, There you go! Peanut butter Jelly, peanut butter Jelly and a baseball bat!

Holy shit! I went to pick up my local order of Bruery beers and stopped by the shop near by. This took me by surprise as it was hidden away in a box but caught my eye as I saw the different colored wax on the beer. I thought to myself, well, this must be something special cuz it is probably going to be expensive. I saw what it was, a peanut butter and raspberry jelly beer and I did not hesitate to buy it. At 1 per customer, I was like damn it!! I needed to get another one or two but I figured, well I will come back. Apparently they released this in very small quantities to limited places. I just happened to be at the right place at the right time. Now I have tried many great and awesome peanut butter chocolate milk stouts but never one that was a peanut butter and jelly mix. I can only hope this is as awesome as my crazy mind thought it would be. Let’s check this out and cheers to all!

Aromas:
Super Rich peanut butter and Raspberry Jelly aromas, lactose milk sugar, molasses, dark fruit raisins, black berries, blue berries, black cherries, currants, plums, cherry cheesecake, choco flan, bananas, vanilla, caramel, roasted peanuts with shells, nutter butter cookies, toffee, coffee cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, earthy notes, Reese’s peanut butter puffs cereal, coconut hints, marshmallows, graham cracker smores and rocky road ice cream hints.

Flavors:
Rich peanut butter, Rich Raspberry Jelly, toasted rye bread, bananas, vanilla, caramel, roasted peanuts with shells, nutter butter cookies, toffee, coffee cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, earthy notes, Reese’s peanut butter puffs cereal, lactose milk sugar, molasses, dark fruit raisins, black berries, blue berries, black cherries, currants, plums, cherry cheesecake, choco flan, whipped cream, Irish cream hints, coconut hints, marshmallows, graham cracker smores, rocky road ice cream hints, dark chocolate, cocoa crispies, brown sugar, candi sugar, rock candy, oatmeal cookies, mocha hints and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:
Rich peanut butter and dark fruit raspberry and other berry mixed lingers along with caramel, vanilla, hazlnut, earthy hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate and flan hints. No alcohol in the taste, super easy to drink despite the ABV, smooth, creamy, velvet and silky mouthfeel with a pitch black and crimson surface (under the light) full body.

Overall:
WOW, Simply put, they were not joking when they were trying to get the exact! Flavors of peanut butter and Jelly. Although, this is way more than just that. There is so much rich complexity of flavors going on but none of it is intimidating and at the rate of being dangerously drinkable, it is pretty damn crazy. I will need to find more bottles of this and definitely think I will try to mimic the recipe somehow. I highly recommend this one!

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno and Yoruichi Shihouin from Naruto and Bleach respectively were used in this pairing since I wanted to pair them with the colors of the peanut butter and jelly. They are 2 of my favorite anime characters and so using them in this pairing was awesome for me. Their colors also represent other flavors of the beer such as the chocolate, vanilla, waffle cone, coconut, flan, dark fruits and other sweet flavors colonthree emoticon

Sources:
http://76.72.168.19/images/2013-10-11-611327.png
http://gallery.minitokyo.net/download/421717

Pugsley’s Signature Series Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard brewing

April 20, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Anko Mitarashi, Beer Hybrid, blue berries, Blueberries, blueberry cheese cake, blueberry cheesecake, blueberry muffins, Blueberry yogurt, dark chocolate, Fruit Beer, Imperial Porter, milk Chocolate, Naruto, Pugsley's Signature Series, Scotch Ale, Shipyard brewing, Smashed Blueberry | 2 Comments

Rating: 6/5

Pugsley’s Signature Series Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard brewing is a 9% ABV Imperial Porter/Scotch Ale Fruit beer on Blueberries.

Label:
Smashed Blueberry is a hybrid between a Porter and a Scotch Ale. This beer has a rich mouth feel and a body of complex intensity. Upfront, there are distinct flavors of coffee and chocolate beautifully accentuated by the aroma of fresh blueberries. The finish features a delicate balance of sweet fruit and dry hops. This beer pairs well with glazed duck, ribs, barbeque, chocolate, and blueberry deserts. To fully experience all the flavors, Smashed Blueberry is best drunk at 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

More about the beer:
Malt: Pale, Crystal, Chocolate, Roasted Barley, Light Munich, Torrified Wheat
Hops: Summit, Tettnang, Cascade
Yeast: Top-Fermenting English
Color: Dark Brown
OG: 1.087 ABV: 9.0%

==Introduction==

A Blueberry blast from my craft beer past! This beer was one of my few experiences with a blueberry beer. When I first tried it so long ago, I definitely thought it was the best blueberry beer I had ever had. Little did I know, that the fact that it was a Scotch Ale and Porter hybrid I think really made the difference because the majority of the Wee Heavies I have had in the past are always so damn awesome. No one with a port and blueberry infusion, well damn. The funny part too is that this beer is so common and so underated it ain’t even funny. True fans really enjoy this gem. So I brought it back as it comes with a new label. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich blueberry aromas,Rich milk and dark chocolate covered raisins, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow, chocolate smores, blueberry yogurt, blueberry cheesecake, anise, dark fruit raisins, plums, black currants, raspberries, blackberries, cinnamon hints, blueberry flan, Danish cream, brown sugar, honey, smoked peat, milk chocolate and flan.

Flavors:
Rich Blueberries, Blueberry yogurt, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel Coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, blueberry muffins, blueberry cheesecake, anise, dark fruit raisins, plums, cinnamon hints, blueberry flan, Danish cream, Irish cream coffee hints, banana notes, chocolate mousse, smoked peat, molasses, butterscotch, toffee, black currants, raspberries, blackberries, honey notes, earthy notes, brown sugar, marshmallow smores and fudge brownies.

Aftertaste:
Leaving lots of blueberries, dark chocolate, smoked peat, dark fruits, caramel, coffee notes, vanilla and flan hints. No alcohol in the taste, dark brown full body, moderate drinkability and a velvet, smooth and silky mouthfeel.

Overall:
This beer is mainly high as it is my personal preference. The amount of blueberry goodness is insane with this beer. I loved it so much long ago, I love it a lot now. It is still as awesome as before. Even though I have had many blueberry beers now, when it comes to just pure blueberry richness, this is my go to beer! Highly recommended and like I said, easy to find!

Anime Corner:
Anko Mitarashi from Naruto was used in this pairing in the past as I wanted to pair the blueberry aspects of the beer with Anko’s looks and flavors of the beer. I think I got a winner and the way she licks the kunai clean is the way one would finish licking the spoon after eating a rich dessert. This beer is pretty much a dessert.

Sources:
http://images.paraorkut.com/img/wallpapers/1024×768/a/anko_-_anime-8489.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/full/429279

Las Quadtro Monjas by Nubis Sanctum Ales

March 30, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Abbey, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadrupel, Belgian Quadruple, Belgian Quadrupple Ale, Belgian Trappist Monastery, Belgian Trappists, Bleach, Dark Belgian Candi, dark fruits, dreams do come true, Home brewing, Kill-LA-Kill, Kos-MOS, kosmos, Las Quad-tro Monjas, Las quatro monjas, Naruto, Nubis Sanctum Ales, Plums, Ryuko Matoi, Temari Sabakuno, Trappist, Xenosaga, Yoruichi Shihouin | 1 Comment

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!

2015 Or Xata (Horchata) by the Bruery

March 8, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged agua fresca, Belgian Blonde, blonde, blonde ale, Bruery, caramel brown, churros, Cinnamon, Dulce de leche, dulce leche, Eureka, Fuu, Horchata, mexican cuisine, Naruto, Or Xata, OrXata, Que Rico, Rice, rice pudding, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2015 Or Xata (Horchata) by the Bruery is a 7.2% ABV Blonde ale brewed with Rice, Cinnamon and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
¡Que Rico!

This ale is our spin on horchata, a sweet & creamy drink originating in Latin America, now quite popular in Southern California.

Horchata is one of our favorite drinks, refreshing alongside a spicy dish or just for sipping on a lazy afternoon. Our take on the traditional agua fresca incorporates rice and lactose along with spices for that sweet, creamy character that we’ve come to love. Or Xata is best enjoyed fresh. The ideal serving temperature is 45° Fahrenheit (7° Celsius). Best served in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

It’s finally back! The one beer that I enjoyed so much I had to drive far away just to try and get a sample of back in 2013. This beer was so damn good that it became limited right away with only an exclusive few to try it. Now the Bruery has brought it back and hopefully it is here to stay as a seasonal for many to try. I remember how close Horchata or liquid churros this tasted and now I bring forth the 2015 version. Hopefully it has not changed and is still as good as I remember. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rice pudding, cinnamon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, liquid churros, bananas, coconut candy hints, Danish cookies, cookie dough, butterscotch, toffee, biscuit bread, stone fruits like peaches and apricot hints, cane sugar, agave hints, mint hints, milk sugar, coriander and citrus.

Flavors:
Rich cinnamon, Rice pudding, flan, banana hints, liquid churros, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, pan dulce, leche nestle(sweetened condensed milk), coconut candy, clove spice, Danish cookies, cookie dough ice cream, Churro Ice cream,butterscotch, stone fruits like apricot hints, peach hints, cherry hints, English cream, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint hints, whipped cream, milk sugar, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, Mochi ball ice cream, nutmeg, coriander spice, citrus hints, toffee and mangoes.

Aftertaste:
Vanilla, rice pudding, caramel, banana hints, rich churros, cinnamon and flan. No alcohol in the taste, refreshing, creamy and silky mouthfeel, easy to drink, and a gold haze of a light to medium body.

Overall:
What can I say that I have not been said before about this beer. This taste exactly like it should. It may not be the most complex beer, well, it kinda is but it hits exactly on the flavor profiles from what they were going for. An Horchata dessert beer. This is too damn delicious to pass up. I highly recommend you try this one since it is one of the closest to an Horchata beer than most likely any non porter/stout Horchata beer.

Anime Corner:
Fuu from Naruto has returned from the last time I tried Or Xata. I never really explained why I used her in the last pairing but the last label had a green, red and gold colors which worked perfectly with the label. This time around, since we have a more artistic and Aztec pattern in the label, I find that it works with her still. You see, for Fuu, her eyes and the 7 tailed beast she holds inside her has similar colors and the wings had complex patterns like the design in the font of the name.

Sources:
http://alexpetrow.deviantart.com/art/Fuu-320430770
http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2012/300/b/0/fu___edo_tensei_by_nextgfx-d5j2spf.jpg

2015 Mocha Wednesday by The Bruery

March 7, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Imperial Stout, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, brown sugar, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Rain, coffee, Coffee Beans, Grey Monday, Kahlua, Konan, Konan of Amegakure, Kopi Luwak, Kopi Luwak Coffee, Melange 3, Mocha, mocha coffee, Mocha Wednesday, Naruto, Portola Coffee Lab, TCHO Cacao nibs, The Bruery, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2015 Mocha Wednesday by The Bruery is a 18.6% ABV World Class Imperial Stout brewed with Portola Labs Coffee beans and TCHO Cacao Nibs aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
MORNING AFTER

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

Mocha Wednesday is a perfect follow up to a Black Tuesday. This invigorationg ale will age gracefully if cellared properly, but the both chocolate and freshly ground coffee flavors will be most prominent when consumed fresh.
___

So this year, because I had reviewed this one last year, I will bre pretty much referring to the same stuff I talked about in the last review. This time though, this beer was part of the Reserve Society and it was about freaking time too. Black Tuesday, Grey Monday, White Chocolate, Chocolate Rain and Melange #3 have been my top favorite Bruery beers and now, Mocha Wednesday is here again this year. Cheers!!

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

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

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

Overall:
Holy Shit, this kicks a lot of the best coffee beers right in the nuts. I think this is really the best damn coffee beer I have ever had with Alesmith Barrel Aged Kopi Luwak Speedway Stout being the second runner up. This definitely is a warming welcome to the already great line up of Bruery beers specifically the ones I had mentioned earlier in my post. This time, the mesh of chocolate and coffee come forth like no other, chocolate rain style. Even so, like the previous review of this, the consistency and the coffee to give it a complex coffee-mocha flavor makes it extremely unique. Something like this is what meets the highest expectation exceeding criteria that I look for in some of the best beers in the world. A rarity, but a lovely beer just the same as last years beer. It may not be the 19.2% ABV that it used to be but damn still strong and leading the pact of beers into the future.

Anime Corner:
Konan of Amegakure from the Naruto has returned like in last years review and she is looking mighty gorgeous as the beer has allowed to give way to stronger and richer sweet mocha flavors. They got that right. The alcohol shows her unique strength. The perfect pairing idea came from the label and a need to find one of my favorite characters to fit. Her blue hair and hazelnut eyes fit perfect with the beer label colors. Her strength is not the only thing that matters, but the rich sweet aspects of her flavors characterizes the deep love she has for her friends Nagato and Yahiko (Also known as Pain). The rarity of this beer is the rarity of her discipline. For the smallest times you do get to see her fight, she is a bad ass ninja. Hence the reason her smoothness and seduction will make you pay greatly later on if you try to consume her in one sitting. Patience is virtue!! Aside from these aspects, if you know this character or can even guess, what other aspects of this pairing compliment each other?

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1168065
http://kriscounette.k.r.pic.centerblog.net/vbjyttlo.jpg
http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/3e/06/2b/3e062b8799a391d6b3439578726d3dce.jpg

Chocolate Hazelnut Porter (CHP) by Heretic brewing

January 9, 2015 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Chocolate, chocolate hazelnut, Chocolate Hazelnut Porter, CHP, dark chocolate, hazelnut, Heretic brewing, milk Chocolate, Naruto, Tayuya | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.65/5

Chocolate Hazelnut Porter (CHP) by Heretic brewing is a 7% ABV American Porter brewed with natural flavors.

Label:
Chocolate hazelnut Porter was the very first beer I entered in competition. It took 3rd place and gave me feedback on what I could do to improve. This sparked my passion for using competition to improve my brewing. The next time it took 1st place and eventually a Best of Show award. This is just something wonderful about the combination of rich chocolate and toasty hazelnut. When I started Heretic, people asked when we would release Chocolate Hazelnut Porter, but we had to be patient. Like that first award winning beer, I had to make sure the one in this bottle was perfect before we could release it. Many brews and tastings later, I am proud to offer you this rich, chocolaty, nutty, dessert in a glass. -Jamil Zainasheff

==Introduction==

I’ve seen some of the Heretic beers around but this one really caught my attention. I rally like sweet beers so chocolate hazelnut really sounded like an awesome mix. This would probably remind me of the Rogue Hazelnut Nectar, I thought. So I picked it up and brought it for a review here on the site. If you have tried this one let me know what you think, but here is what I think, let us take a look shall we? Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, hazelnut, brown sugar, mocha hints, smokey notes, roasted coffee, graham cracker, peanut butter hints, caramel, molasses and dark fruit hints.

Flavors:
Dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, peanut butter hints, hazelnut, roasty coffee notes, pecan pie, marshmallows, smokey notes, graham cracker, oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip cookies, caramel, vanilla, mocha hints, notes of dark fruit raisins, dark cherry hints, brown sugar, molasses and anise.

Aftertaste:
Earthy notes, roasted coffee, hazelnut, dark chocolate, caramel, vanilla and pecan pie hints. No alcohol in the taste, smooth and creamy mouthfeel, dark full body and moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer which showcases a lot of sweet complexities but also emphasizes a roasty and smokey like character that balances it out over all. As it warms up, more of the sweeter chocolate and hazelnut flavors do tend to come out more frequently. While the beer is not as super complex and rich as other beers it still has enough to get things going and mainly still be considered a very nice dessert beer that would pair with other desserts. A must try.

Anime Corner:
Tayuya from Naruto was chosen in this pairing to pair with the motto of the beer. Release your Inner Heretic. There is a hidden evil yet deliciousness about the beer, but Tayuya has been used in several pairings to express something evil hidden. Some of the beers I have used to pair with Tayuya have been bitter or smokey in a sense as she brims with the hidden fires of her cursed form which you can see what it looks like. Sweet on the outside but dark and roasty on the inside. The beer kind of fits as the flavors of Chocolate and Hazelnut are presented in the beer and then shift into the roasty and smokiness to balance everything out.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1331583#full
http://static.zerochan.net/Tayuya.full.626165.jpg

Eight by Surly Brewing

November 26, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Barleywine, anniversary ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged, High West Rye Whiskey Barrels, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Naruto, Oat Wine, Oatwine, Rye Whiskey, Rye Whiskey Barrels, surly, Surly 8, Surly Brewing, wheat wine, White Chocolate | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Eight by Surly Brewing is a 12%ABV Oat Wine Aged in High West Rye Whiskey Barrels.

Label:
get surly

“When it’s done” is a phrase we’ve used to describe release dates for our beers for many years. When you’re putting the beer first, it just makes sense. Our anniversary is technically in February, but this unique Oat Wine style ale needed to age in High West Rye Whiskey barrels until, well… until it’s done. Here’s to Eight great years, and we’ll all be celebrating soon in our all new Destination Brewery.

The idea behind our anniversary line-up of beers was to give Todd, Surly’s Head Brewer, free rein to use whatever ingredients and methods he wanted to brew the beer. This year’s bottle artwork is a one-of-a-kind illustration collaboration between Todd and local artist Josh “Jawsh” Lemke.

This beer was designed for barrel aging, so it’s been a great opportunity to work with our friends at High West Distillery® in Park City. Utah. Brewed with Golden Promise and Aromatic malt Oats, and Milk sugar fermented in stainless steel then aged in High West Rye Whiskey barrels, this golden hued Oat-Wine style ale summons notes of spicy vanilla marshmallow and aromas of honey and whiskey.

==Introduction==

Another awesome year has come for Surly brewing and the release of their long awaited Barley wine is now here. Every year, I await the release of their anniversary ale since trying the Surly 4. Some releases are greater than others but sometimes you have to dig deep online to find these obscure beers… or just go to france44.com and get them, I guess that’ll work. Anyways, this year they made an oatwine aged in Rye whiskey barrels. I have tried many barley wines, some wheat wines, but never an oatwine. So the fact that this one is barrel aged, I will try to find the original beer somehow but if not, at least I will let you know how this year’s Surly anniversary turns out. Come, join me into the abyss of flavor experience…

Aromas:
Marshmallow cream, chocolate smores, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, flan, custard, dark fruit raisins, cherries, white chocolate, toffee, butterscotch, bourbon, rye bread, rye whiskey, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Lechera sweetened condensed milk, bananas, clove spice, pumpkin spice, tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, piña colada hints, pecan pie, hazel nut, oatmeal cookies, Danish cookies, oranges, citrus, coriander spice, macadamia nuts, marzipan, burnt sugar, brown sugar and candi sugar.

Flavors:
Bourbon, Rye whiskey, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, flan, custard, tobacco, leathery notes, sweetened condensed milk, oranges, coriander spice, mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, pears, apples, toasted coconut, piña colada hints, rich white chocolate, toffee, mild pumpkin spice, cinnamon, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, Danish cookies, Tres Leches cake, marshmallow cream, bananas, clove spice, chocolate smores, butterscotch, rye bread, brown sugar, marzipan, hazelnut, burnt sugar, candi sugar hints, dark fruits like cherries, raisins, plums, biscuit bread, capirotada raisin bread pudding, pecan pie and almond joy chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Lingering dulce de lecher caramel, burnt sugar, white chocolate hints, citrus, mild piña colada hints , bananas, toasted coconut, rye whiskey, earthy notes and pecans. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, smooth, creamy and silky mouthfeel, sipping drinkability with some notes that makes this really easy to drink and a full golden brown full body.

Overall:
There is no surprise here. The moment I realized I really liked this one was right when this beer started to have some special tropical hints and white chocolate for some reason. I kept tasting white chocolate at times especially as it got warmer. I am not sure if that is part of the Oat wine or the combination of the that with the whiskey. What an amazing beer for their anniversary that they released. I really enjoyed this one. If you would like to obtain this one, I got it at france44.com where they are very limited and selling out very quick. So yes, I highly suggest you get this special anniversary ale.

Anime Corner:
Kaguya Ōtsutsuki from the Naruto series is one of the main antagonist from the series. She was brought here in this pairing for several reasons. Mainly for her great pairing with the label, the evil that she is flows great with Surly and the white chocolate aspect I kept getting from the beer. All the colors in this pairing show many of the flavor complexities that this one shows. Surly unleashed a special type of demon from it’s sealed state and now with her sweet onslaught of flavors, she will take back what was hers. Your lack of not trying this beer. She is all powerful, complex, sweet in appearance and flavor but overall, just evil!!

Sources:
http://rikamello.deviantart.com/art/Ohtsutsuki-Kaguya-478836486

2014 White Chocolate by The Bruery

September 17, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged 2014 White Chocolate, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Chocolate Rain, dulce de caramel, milk Chocolate, Naruto, orange, TCHO Cacao nibs, Temari, Temari Sabakuno, The Bruery, The Sun, tropical flavor, vanilla, vanilla beans, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Oak | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

2014 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 14.3% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.

Label:
OAKALATE

This sumptuous version of our barrel-aged wheat wine style ale has an addition of fresh vanilla beans and TCHO cacao nibs.

White Chocolate is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may evolve pleasantly over time if cellared properly.

Notes/Commercial Description: (per beeradvocate)
The primary component of our “White Oak” ale is a 100% barrel aged wheat wine that we affectionately refer to as “White Oak Sap.” Essentially a “summer” barley-wine style ale, but made with a wheat heavy grain base, White Oak Sap is aged in used bourbon barrels for nearly a year and comes out rich in flavors of coconut, honey, caramel and vanilla. To compliment the already rich flavors of the beer, we’ve added cacao nibs and vanilla beans to give this beer the delicate flavor of white chocolate…hence the name.
___

Available to Preservation and Reserve members this fall, they released this beer once again. Unfortunately, the 2013 version ended up getting sour if not consumed fresh. This year, they plan to redeem themselves and release it again. This decadent piece of liquid chocolate white has been on one of my top favorites of all time in terms of rare beers. Not counting my top favorite common ones. So I bring it forth once again, one of my all time favorites in my quest to seek the truest of the truest, White Chocolate! Cheers!

Aromas:
Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots,plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!

Flavors:
White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!

Aftertaste:
Lingering sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice
No alcohol in the taste despite the 14.3% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.

Overall:
Need I say more? Despite the fact that the 2013 version had its issues, 2014 comes back even stronger and more velvet and chocolatey sweet. They really brought it back in the right way, damn!! I really am mind blown and it comes as a damn reminder why I love this beer so much and hence the reason I always keep ordering at the Bruery when they have it on tap. I don’t even have to say it, I truly believe this is a bucket list beer along with Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain the new Wineification and Grey Monday. Oh yeah, let us not forget the ultimate Melange 3!! Go try them all!….

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto is no mystery to this beer. She has appeared in all the instances I try this beer and may do so for as long as I keep reviewing this beer. Temari is simply and awesome ninja as I stated in previous reviews. She represents the color of the beer blonde to gold as in the color of her hair. She represents a partial tropical aspect in terms of the White oak that is added which I refer to “Raw as The Sun” but subdued by the overall sweet chocolate and vanilla which are pretty intimate to me. Temari’s strength is also in the ABV and just like a ninja, will flow easy if you try to consume her in one sitting. White Chocolate Temari, I Love You Chiquita!!!

Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapersdesktop.com/Anime/Naruto/images/Naruto%20Wallpaper%20257.jpg
http://media.animevice.com/uploads/0/7354/579647-e2d0db9b48a8f67534fbec4c6e4ed11b.png

Saku Kiss Cherry Cider by Svyurys-Utenos Allus, Utena , Lithuania

September 13, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Cherry Cider, Kiss Cherry Cider, Lithuania, Naruto, Saku Kiss Cherry Cider, sakura Haruno, Svyutys-Utenos Allus, Utena | Leave a comment

Rating: 3/5* Cider Rating

Saku Kiss Cherry Cider by Svyurys-Utenos Allus, Utena , Lithuania is a 4.5% Cherry Cider.

Description: None.

Talk about random picks. So I decided pick up a Cherry flavored Cider since I haven’t tried ciders in a while. I saw this one at the Total Wine and More and saw it was an export cider and a 16 ounce one, so I figured what the hell. Let’s try it out. I have tried some very epically awesome ciders but the specially awesome ones like the ones from Crispin are only far few and between. Either way, let us see how this one fares in the cider category.

Aromas:
Honey, Cherry, cinnamon, apple, pear and biscuit bread.

Flavors:
Cinnamon, dark cherry, honey, apples, pears, biscuit bread, butterscotch notes, grapes and crandberry.

Aftertaste:
Subtle cherry notes linger but mainly dry. No alcohol in the taste, easy to drink, pink clear body and light mouth feel with a very crisp and refreshing taste.

Overall:
A pretty average but tasty cider. Nothing too overwhelming but a bit of flavor variety to keep it interesting but not awesome. I guess if you are experimental and would like try a different flavored cider, give it a try.

Anime Corner:
Sakura Haruno from Naruto was used in this pairing mainly because I wanted something to pair with the cherry aspect of the beer and the fact that the colors of the beer are rosey pink. That and the fact that the name of the cider starts with Saku.

Sources:
http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/5500000/Sakura-haruno-sakura-5586015-1024-768.jpg

Canebrake by Parish Brewing

August 16, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Pale Wheat Ale, Broussard, Canebrake, Louisiana, Louisiana Sugar Cane, Louisiana Wheat Ale, Naruto, Parish Brewing, sugar cane, Yugito | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.35/5

Canebrake by Parish Brewing is a 4.9% ABV American Pale Wheat Ale brewed with Louisiana sugar cane.

Label:
This delicious beer was brewed and bottled in small batches with great care and passion for our craft, by Parish Brewing Co, in Broussard, Louisiana.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Brewed with Louisiana sugarcane! A new Louisiana tradition in the works. Crisp and easy to drink, this sparingly hopped American wheat focuses attention on the understated sweet remnants of sugarcane.

___

A beer brewed with sweet cane stalks? Yes, Please!! Growing up in Mexico I use to enjoy fresh sugar cane stalk. Now there is such a thing in beer. Wow, what won’t brewers do to make such awesome little beers like this. I gotta give special thanks to my friend Aaron at www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this brewsky from Louisiana. One that we do not here in California. Hopefully one day we will see it here. If you find it, let me know what you think, cheers!

Aromas:
Sugar cane stalk juice, agave syrup hints, peach, guava hints, honey comb, peppercorn, coriander spice, biscuit bread, stone fruit, tropical hints, citrus and mango tang.

Flavors:
Orange, lemon zest, peppercorn, farmhouse hay, guava, stone fruit peach, mango hints, sugar cane stalk juice, agave hints, prickly pear, passion fruit, dragon fruit hints, coriander spice, wheat bread, pear, apple, biscuit bread, caramel, vanilla hints, grassy notes and honey comb.

Aftertaste:
Citrus, biscuit bread, peppercorn, farmhouse hints, floral hop notes, sugarcane stalk juice and tropical fruits. No alcohol in the taste. Easy to drink, crisp, refreshing, medium body, light mouthfeel and a great summer beer.

Overall:
Very good wheat ale. This is the first Sugar cane beer I have ever had. As a young kid, I used to love the Mexican vendors growing up that would sell the sugar cane stalk. You would munch on the stalk to extract the sweet nectar and get rid of the grassy remains. This beer reminds me of that and it does had some flavors reminiscent of those days for me.

Anime Corner:
Yugito from Naruto was chosen to pair in this beer because not only was it the first time I try a beer from Parish brewing but the first time I bring Yugito into the beer world here on the site. She is the host of the Two Tailed Cat beast from the series. Her golden hair represents the threads of cane stalk while the green in some instances reminds me of the tropical fruits and sugar that are brought from this beer. The bead necklace she wears on her arm represents like that of religion which the name of the brewery, Parish, is what is represents. The demon cat represents the complexity of flavors that even such a beer at a low ABV can hold. So basically, it is like her unleashing that fury out,

Sources:
http://fidjera.deviantart.com/art/Comiss-Nii-Yugito-288008332
http://www.hcomicbook.com/imglink/gallery/ecb90476404ee97e93e88c7beba6ffbc9a59dcb1.jpg

Señorita by Elevation Beer Co

June 25, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Cinnamon, Colorado beer, Dia de los Muertos, Elevation Beer Company, Horchata, Imperial Porter, Kaguya Otsutsuki, Mexican Tradition, mexican vanilla, Naruto, Señorita, Señorita Beer, vanilla | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

Señorita by Elevation Beer Co is an 8.2% ABV Horchata Imperial Porter brewed with Vanilla and Cinnamon.

Label:
Black Series
Southern Colorado is deeply steeped in the history of the pueblos of the American Southwest and the first European settlers from Spain who settled our beautiful state. Horchata is the classic Spanish/Mexican style drink still served at authentic local restaurants from Durango to Alamosa to Denver. Paying homage to my family’s roots in the San Luis Valley, we decided to make a beer worthy of this classic drink and our state’s Spanish roots.

Cheers!
Sheila Atencio Bustamante
Co-Founder

This beer pours a deep dark brown with a snow-white head. Aroma notes of Vanilla, Cinnamon and sweet milk hit the nose bringing up images of the delicious Mexican drink this beer is styled after. The beer hits the palate with Vanilla, sweet chocolate malts, and a hint of cinnamon; all with a medium body and a balancing hop bitterness. Enjoy this beer next to a roaring fire with your amigos in a cozy cabin after a long day of skiing the deep powder of the Rocky Mountains

Bottle#04050
Style: Horchata/Imperial Porter
Alc/Vol: 8.5
Hops: Northern Brewer, Chinook
Malts: Two-Row, Crystal, Aromatic Chocolate, Roasted Barley, Flaked Barley
Extras: Milk Sugar, Cinnamon, Madagascar Vanilla Beans
Pairings: Mexican Chocolate Cake, Mole, Barbacoa Street Tacos
___

Another special release that was donated to the website thanks to my good friend Aaron of www.beermetaldude.com of Texas. This beer pays homage to our heritage of Mexican decent. Horchata is a very delicious Rice, cinnamon and vanilla drink. I have only once had another Horchata beer which was the Bruery’s Or Xata. As I remember that beer, when I first had it on draft with actual authentic tacos, it was bliss! So now, we have a chance to show what this beer is about. Will it come close to that? Let us see.

Aromas:
Vanilla, Cinnamon, dark chocolate, chocolate abuelita, roasted coffee, churros, milk chocolate, milk sugar, rice pudding, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, prailines, flan, chocolate covered cherries, dark fruits, brown sugar, hazelnut, molasses, anise, earthy hop character and toffee.

Flavors:
Chocolate Churros, Horchata, Milk Chocolate, rich Dark Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, Flan, cinnamon, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like raisins, capirotada raisin bread pudding, chocolate cherries, molasses, anise, Kahlua hints, earthy hops, toffee, milk sugars, pecan pie, prailines and hazelnut.

Aftertaste:
Dark chocolate, roasted coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel and earthy hops linger. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with a silky and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
This one is over the top delicious. It does have flavors which reminded me of the Or Xata but with chocolate and a roasted and earthy notes. It was very awesome in its own way and I think I like it a bit better than Or Xata although what really makes Or Xata special is much more rice, milk and sweet flavors. I love them both and I would definitely recommend them both if you can find them.

Anime Corner:
Lady Kaguya Ootsutsuki from Naruto and Original Skull Face Girl Artwork were used in this pairing because I wanted to show the flavors of the Horchata. Kaguya has the milky colors of the Horchata as well as the cherry and chocolate flavors of the dark beer. She is a coldhearted demon trying to take over the world. Her power represents the complexity of this beer, even if she is evil. The skeleton girl pays tribute to the Mexican heritage of Dia de los Muertos but it also pays tribute to the label of Señorita!

Sources:
http://shikaobing.deviantart.com/art/20140604-Bloody-Moon-458500195
http://ifeergirl.deviantart.com/art/Naruto-679-Kaguya-459716749
http://www.desktopbackgrounds.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Skull-Face-Girl-Dia-De-Muertos.jpg

Habanero Sculpin by Ballast Point

June 5, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Ballast Point, Chile beer, Habanero Peppers, Habanero Sculpin, india pale ale, IPA, Kill-LA-Kill, Kushina, Naruto, Ragyo Kyurin, Red Hot-Blooded Habanero, Sculpin, Sculpin fish, Sculpin IPA, World class | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Habanero Sculpin by Ballast Point is a 7% ABV World Class India Pale Ale brewed with Habanero Peppers

Description: (http://www.ballastpoint.com/beer/sculpin-with-habanero/)
Our popular IPA, with a punch of heat.
Our Sculpin IPA is a great example of what got us into brewing in the first place. After years of experimenting, we knew hopping an ale at five separate stages would produce something special. The result ended up being this gold-medal winning IPA, whose inspired use of hops creates hints of apricot, peach, mango and lemon flavors, but still packs a bit of a sting, just like a Sculpin fish.
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Ballast Point finally decided to get this beer out to the masses. I have had this beer plenty of times before and let me put it this way, I can already tell you that this one is HOT!! So basically, if you don’t like heat driven beers, or chile in general, there is a high chance you will not like this. So yes, this is a chili head type of beer basically. However, it is not just a pure heat beer, it definitely has a great amount of complexity provided by the original sculpin.

Aromas:
Grapefruit, grassy, floral and piney hops with habanero chile pepper in the aromas. Yes, that means this ones hot, A warning. The aromas follow up with mango, papaya, dragon fruit, citrus, apricot, peach, caramel, biscuit bread, cucumber, hibiscus, tangerine, bell pepper, pineapple and honey.

Flavors:
Forward Habanero heat but the flavors of the sculpin IPA pull through. Caramel, biscuit bread, honey, cantaloupe, cucumber, flowers, grapefruit, pine resin, grassy hops, tangerine, mango, citrus, papaya, dragon fruit, apricot, peach , passion fruit, candied mandarin orange and mild rye.

Aftertaste:
He searing heat keeps on burning but dissipates unlike crime and punishment from stone. Caramel, pineapple, grassy and grapefruit hops linger. No alcohol in the taste but while this is crisp and refreshing, it is a highly sipping beer.

Overall:
Great Beer if you love IPAs and chile beers. The heat varies in each bottle and in this case, these are fucking HOT!!. I really had to take my time with this one. The heat dissipates as the beer gets warmer since I believe the sweet tropical fruits kind of mellow some of the heat. Highly recommended if you love chile beers or chile in general. This is best paired with something to eat as drinking this on an empty stomach….well… lets just say I warned you. If you like regular Sculpin, this is good to try but like I said, stick to regular sculpin if you don’t like the heat.

Anime Corner:
This one’s one mother of a beer. Like the previous Sculpin which I did with Terese Rose, it represents a delicate flower like the fish. But test it out, you will find that this flower is deadly!! Ragyo Kyuruin from Kill La Kill and Kushina “Bloody Habaneo” Uzumaki from Naruto are the mothers of the main characters, Ryuko Matoi and Satsuki Kyuruin and Naruto Uzumaki respectively but different series. Ragyo’s colors represent the tropics and beauty that is brought forth in this tropical IPA but she also brings death and destruction which is represented by the heat. Kushina is very kind and sweet but when she gets mad, she unleashes all hell, hence why they gave her the nickname, “Bloody Habanero”. I can’t stress how awesome, beautiful but deadly this beer is. Patience is key!

Sources:
http://cs618417.vk.me/v618417231/4b17/8QEd1B3jW_w.jpg
http://31.media.tumblr.com/844e72c621c85d99eecc19a625b2becb/tumblr_n21s1uKGtm1rxojvro2_1280.jpg
http://static.tumblr.com/5896fa2eabf96eadc51f04bf373d8ef1/qgfktsz/YrTn1sh3u/tumblr_static_c45290ab1faddebe43e90c5ac766676b.pnghttp://fc05.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2012/223/5/9/kushina_uzumaki__childhood__by_shinoharaa-d5as14l.png

Modern Romance by Midnight Sun brewing

June 3, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged Anko, Belgian Strong Dark Ale, cacao beans, Chile beer, chili pepper, Cinnamon, cocoa, dark chocolate, Hinata, Karin, Konan, Kurenai, midnight sun brewing, Modern Romance, Naruto, sakura Haruno, Temari Sabakuno, Ten Ten, Tsunade, Yamanaka ino | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/5

Modern Romance by Midnight Sun brewing is a 9.3% ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale brewed with cacao nibs, cocoa powder, cinnamon, chilies and maca and aged with cocoa powder

Label:
Raw cacao powder and roasted cacao nibs add an earthy element. But every romance needs some spark. Modern Dwellers’ signature Mayan Spice blend provides sultry, lingering heat that seduces the sweetness of the malts. It’s not for everyone but, for some, there is nothing else.

In an exciting collaboration, Midnight Sun and Modern Dwellers Chocolate Lounge—a local artisan chocolatier—designed and brewed a very special dark ale that celebrates our strengths—and weaknesses: sensuous chocolate, warm spice, fiery chili, provocative character and amorous mood.
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Obtained this guy at craftbeerkings.com, I wanted to give it a shot especially since I love chocolate beers. I heard this one was a Belgian style strong dark ale with chocolate and chile. Oh hell yes! I had to try it. So here it is, the review for your enjoyment and let us see if this beer holds it’s weight as a good chocolate beer.

Aromas:
Strong Milk chocolate shake, cocoa powder, dark chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, mocha coffee, nutmeg, dark fruit prunes, subtle to hints chili pepper, chocolate abuelita brick,molasses, toffee, and currants.

Flavors:
Very dark chocolate, chocolate abuelita brick, milk chocolate powder, mocha coffee, dulce de leche caramel, raisins, prunes, vanilla, subtle chili pepper, cinnamon, ginger spice, nutmeg, subtle chile spices, currants, toffee, molasses, anise, Mexican mole sauce, oak, port wine, cherries, fudge cake, all spice and hazelnut nectar.

Aftertaste:
Chili pepper mainly in the finish but not super hot. Mainly cocoa powder, dark fruit, molasses, earthy notes, . No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer with full and somewhat syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
I gave this one a good amount extra credit since I love chocolate beers and the fact that this one definitely whops a lot of chocolate and is pretty balanced and not overly sweet. The Belgian aspect falls into perspective only a little bit drinking more like a Belgian Stout than a Dark Belgian Strong ale. The cocoa powder takes away the majority of the heat that would have been there even if you can tell this is a chile beer. Not the above best of all of my favorite chocolate beers but it definitely is up there and very delicious. Something definitely worth trying. It is pretty sensual.

Anime Corner:
Naruto himself and his harem of girls that come out in the series were used in this pairing. Pretty much, all the main ones. These fan arts were made by uzmakiee-naruto and StikyfinkaZ-003 of DeviantArt.com. In an attempt to pair with the label used in this beer and something that comes to mind of this beer’s flavor if a wet dream, was the main reason why I thought this pairing would work fantastically. Awesome stuff!

Sources:
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Gift-For-The-Main-Character-162738736
http://uzmakiee-naruto.deviantart.com/art/Naruto-600-1653189-438992671

Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers by Stone brewing

May 29, 2014 by cloudx30 tagged American Porter, Chile beer, chipotle chile, Chipotle Peppers, Naruto, Pakura, Smoked Porter, Stone Brewing, Stone Smoked Porter, Team Stone | Leave a comment

Rating: 4/5

Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers by Stone brewing is a 5.9% ABV American Porter with Chipotle Peppers.

Label:
Sometimes, developing a prodigious new beer is as simple as looking at an existing, already reliably delicious brew from a different angle. After all, as they say, variety is the spice of life. In 2006, Chris Carroll, a long time member of Team Stone, took an adage literally, proposing that we produce a one-off version of our venerable Stone Smoked Porter made spicy from the addition of chipotle peppers. We gave it a shot and found that those smoked jalapeños melded quite naturally with the smoldery peat-smoked malt that gives the beer its flavor and moniker, creating a deep, roasty quaff with a carefully restrained tingle of tasteful capsaicin heat in the finish, They marriage of ingredients was so nice that it has become an annual summertime staple, released each May in honor of Carroll’s initial idea that Stone Smoked Porter w/ Chipotle Peppers server as an artisanal alternative to the industrialized adjunct-laden cerveza billed as the perfect fluid accompaniment to the sunny season. Fizzy, yellow, watery lager abomination of smokey, robust craft beer–we think the choice is obvious . Cheers to variety and a quality alternative to mediocrity.
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This the latest release from Stone brewing for the 2014 Summer season. This is the second time I try this beer as well as the second time I got at it for a review. The previous edition of this installment was a 12 ounce bottle. I hope that this version of the beer is just as awesome as the previous as I love chile beers. While the last one was not really hot but the chipotle is present as the pepper is smoked itself. This ones out now so you can get this one in many places they sell Stone. Cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, smoked peat, campfire smoke, chile spices, brown sugar, mole sauce, molasses, smoked meat, chipotle, charred oak and caramel.

Flavors:
Camp fire smoke peat, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, a good amount of chipotle chile pepper spice, molasses, hints of mole sauce, earthy hop character, toffee, BBQ, vanilla, roasted coffee, brown sugar and chipotle chile spices.

Aftertaste:
Lingering heat in the finish but not drastic, just pleasing, earthy notes, smokey notes, chipotle spices and some vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, moderately sipping beer with full mouth feel.

Overall:
Very good beer. In comparison the the one I had before, the chile is a bit spicier lingering in the finish but still not super hot. It may not repel those that do not like chile beers but then again I do enjoy very hot food at times. If it has more heat maybe it is because it is fresher. Time may help clearing up the heat. I think this is worth a try if you want to try a very good chile beer. Especially if you like smoked chiles.

Anime Corner:
What a perfect way to pair this beer than to use Pakura from Naruto, the scorch ninja. She is the best beer pairing for this beer as well as for when I first reviewed this beer long ago. Like a ninja attacks when you don’t even know it, this beer is quite a scorcher in the finish. You will first feel all the smoke first and then the chile will linger. That is how Pakura attacks, drying and scorching the palate making you want water but it won’t help at all! Anyways, while this beer isn’t the ultimate scorcher, Pakura has a sweet side as well, but you will have to try this beer to know what I am talking about (ahem vanilla ahem).

Mocha Wednesday by The Bruery

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

Rating: 6/5

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

Label:
MORNING AFTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

White Chocolate Moo-Hoo by Terrapin Brewing

December 6, 2013 by cloudx30 tagged Bleach, cheese cake, cocoa nibs, cow suit, Danish bread, Danish pastry, dark chocolate, flan, Milk Stout, Moo-Hoo, Naruto, Temari Sabakuno, Terrapin Brewing, Tres Leches, vanilla beans, White Chocolate, White Chocolate Moo-Hoo, Ying Yang, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/5

White Chocolate Moo-Hoo by Terrapin Brewing is a 6.1% ABV Milk/Sweet Stout brewed with White Chocolate and cocoa nibs

Label:
If cocoa nibs from Olive & Sinclair in our Moo-Hoo “Chocolate Milk Stout” wasn’t enough, then how about adding white chocolate to the mix just for good measure? The Terrapin “White Chocolate Moo-Hoo” combines the Yin and Yang of the chocolate world into one decadent beer. All the original flavor of Moo-Hoo you remember, all the new flavor of white chocolate you’ll never forget.

Cheers!
Spike & John
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White Chocolate

Aromas:
Lots of White chocolate candy, Danish Cream, milk chocolate, yoo hoo, dark fruits, mild coffee notes, flan, rich vanilla, caramel, rich white chocolate dessert, tres leches/Three milks, sweetened condensed milk and more!!

Flavors:
Flan, vanilla, caramel, Rich buttery White chocolate, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cheese cake, red velvet, chocolate cake, earthy hops, dark fruits, yoo hoo chocolate drink, chocolate shake, Danish cream, crème brulee, tres leches cake, sugary cream, Danish cream and pecan pie.

Aftertaste:
Lots of buttery, silky white and dark chocolate cream, mild coffee and earthy hop bitterness but then dissipates leaving only the sugar sweetness. Very drinkable, very smooth, very delicious, no alcohol but I would still take my time with it. It is very unique and takes time to appreciate this

Overall:
Right next to the Bruery’s White chocolate, this is ridiculously good. As I mentioned in a past, usually sweet beers or any beer that exceeds expectations usually gets extra credit. This includes chocolate beers. Simply knowing that this beer has both the Ying and Yang of chocolate. The flavors are very different from the Bruery’s white chocolate focusing more on the milk chocolate candy of dark and white chocolates. This new flavor of a beer is very different and very unique to the white chocolate style of beer. A rarity among beers and should be highly sought out. WOW!!!

Anime Corner:
Temari and Yoruichi from Naruto and Bleach prospectively are both ninjas and two of my most favorite anime characters ever alongside with KOS-MOS of Xenosaga. I used this art work to pair the White and Dark Chocolate aspects of the beer. The Ying and Yang if you will. You also see this in my reviews for Chocolate Rain and Bruery’s White Chocolate as well. Not only using them because they fit, but mainly because they are my favorite characters and paired with my favorite beers. You may find that a lot throughout my reviews, especially the 6/5 or even the Melange 7/5 rating. Either way, the artwork fits. Temari and her summon, Katamari, the weasel I used to represent the separate aspect. This is a White Chocolate beer and she has a while weasel that is Black and white. The cow pictures I used are mainly to represent the cow suit the Terrapin mascot wears in the label. Seeing as this is a Milk Sweet Stout. The last one with the purple cow is used to represent the flavors of the beer are like all the colors of the rainbow and she looks bad ass too. So it fits in my perspective of creativity.