Tag Archives: Scotch Ale

Breakfast Beast by Clown Shoes

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Rating: 6/6

Breakfast Beast by Clown Shoes is a 10% ABV American Imperial Stout aged with Barrington Coffee Roasting and aged in bourbon barrels.

The beer is Breakfast Beast, a blend of Blaecorn Unidragon Russian imperial stout (12.5 percent ABV), Undead Party Crasher imperial stout (10 percent ABV) and an “experimental new stout” that was aged in bourbon barrels. In addition, cold brewed coffee sourced from Barrington Coffee Roasting Co. in Lee, Mass. was added to the beer before being bottled.

That type of beer you gotta wake up in the morning to. So damn good!! But the beast has always been awesome

Wee Heavy Scotch Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged by Garage Brewing Co

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Rating: 6/6

Wee Heavy Scotch Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged by Garage Brewing Co is a 10.1% ABV Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy Aged in Bourbon Barrels

Description:
This well-balanced classic has been aged in bourbon barrels resulting in a dominant malt character and flavors of caramel, bourbon, and smoke.

Review
Super Dark fruit, oak, bourbon, smoked peat with a ton of complexity. Complex flavors and lots of love for this rare style and the many I have tried continues to be amazing!

 

Chronology:24 – Wee Heavy by The Bruery

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Rating: 7/7

Chronology:24 – Wee Heavy by The Bruery is a 13.7% ABV Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy aged in bourbon barrels for 24 months.

Supreme wee heavy so much so to the point that this taste close to true scotch whiskey but with so much complexity it is not offensive

Past Beer in the series: https://animebeers.com/2016/12/20/2016-chronology18-wee-heavy-by-the-bruery/

 

Home Brewing Project #28 Essence Of The Cryonical Banshee by Nubis Sanctum Ales

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Rating: 5.25/6
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Home Brewing Project #28 Essence Of The Cryonical Banshee by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 9% ABV Wee Heavy/ Scotch Ale.

Label:
Essence Of The Cryonical Banshee

In every culture of the world, there are tales about roaming spirits. One in particular is the story of a woman who keens over the loss of her loved one or loved ones. In Scottish and Irish lore, she goes by “The Banshee”. Mexico calls her, La Llorona”. Britain and Japan have spotted her and she goes by “The White Lady” and “Onryo” respectively. Her origin can even be traced in Greek Mythology as the “The Siren”

She survived the ages. A being of pure immortality, created in an Atlantical cryonics experiment in search of true immortality. History has shown that the majority of our technological advancements was due to the Atlantians. However, they were warned by higher dimensional beings about spreading their secrets to mankind. With the sinking of their city, their fate was sealed. Having been the only one of her kind, the banshee was forced to roam the earth. While most fear her, her story is of sadness, for she is still spreading the secrets in bottles of tears we call, “spirits”, that she leaves wherever she travels.

Ingredients: Water, Hops, Malt & Scottish Ale Yeast.

==Introduction==
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Project #28 was inspired by my need to create a rare style that I only get a to try every now and again. That style is the Wee Heavy. Ever since I got the Sam Adam Wee Heavy, I realized how different of a beer it was. So much so, that I really loved it and wanted to try to find as many of these as I could. I have tried many great ones since like the Alesmith Wee Heavy, Founders Backwoods Bastard and even the Bruery’s Chronology Wee Heavy. With the experience I have gathered brewing several batches, I figured this would be easy. Although the ingredients shown really didn’t look like much. How could only a few grains and lots of malt really create that unique profile. I can understand how the style is manly malty in profile but there was a unique complexity which I see in the style. I have yet to have a bad Wee Heavy and it is one that I think I would be critical as I will compare to the other greats. With that being said, this creation that took me several months to have ready especially since it sat a long time, let’s see how it turned out. Cheers!
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Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, burnt caramel, butterscotch, smoked peat, smokey chocolate, dark pepper notes, banana, dark fruit prunes, raisins, plums, dates, currants, dark chocolate, licorice, brown sugar, figgy pudding, vanilla, stone fruit peach, scotch and fruit cake.
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Flavors:
Rich dark fruit prunes, raisins, plums, dates, currants, smoked peat, dark chocolate, smokey chocolate, Scotch notes, molasses, anise, dulce de leche caramel, burnt caramel, butterscotch, cinnamon, fruit cake, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, figgy pudding, vanilla, stone fruit peach, old mango, pecan pie, burnt marshmallow, coffee cake, brown sugar, licorice, honey, dark pepper, earthy notes, bananas and crème brulee hints.
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Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich dark fruit prunes, burnt caramel, vanilla, Scotch, stone fruit hints, dark pepper, licorice, bananas and rich toffee. No alcohol in the taste. Crimson Brown Medium body. Smooth creamy, and mildly syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
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Overall:
Into the exceptional territory. I honestly did not know what to expect in the beginning seeing as it was such a minimal grain recipe but the huge part being the yeast and the malt use. However, this blew my mind. It is smooth, no alcohol in the taste which is great and not offensive and it also has some Belgian dark notes to it although the European malty aspects in the tribute of Scotch ales, this is simply just that. A great wee heavy! I would definitely love to make this a Scotch barrel version next time to see how this comes out.
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Anime Corner:
Kula Diamond from the SNK King of Fighters series was chosen in this homebrew pairing as I have chosen her with some of the best Wee Heavys I have tried in the past especially the Alesmith Barrel Aged Wee Heavy. The reason I chose her in this pairing as well was that she looks a lot like a Banshee with her cold stare looking into the void. Although, honestly she is well loved by her peers and really isn’t by herself in the KOF series but she sure made for a great character for the story of the Banshee. Many of the colors she has also work well with the flavors and the dark color of the beer. Since it is close to a winter warmer, it also fits as she is a user of the cold.
16904800_10104048636367230_2011773690328844274_o16991765_10104048636387190_4848390248035432816_o17016949_10104048636382200_7899415913934852065_o
Sources:
http://r002.joyme.com/r002/image/2012/07/21/2C0AA3B6B1CE44FE408C0BA759C84D80.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/24/99/54/24995452ae629f5987c1a21cf39bbb33.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f1/46/be/f146befd893dfc793d381f240155a024.jpg
http://screenheaven.com/walls/anime-manga/king-of-fighters-kula-diamond-anime-79572-1920×1080.png
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/5f/b3/86/5fb386af159a3c8b41e627c1e857bb54.jpg
https://d.wattpad.com/story_parts/212296060/images/142c8d78b2719b79.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/MzIfaOI.jpg

2016 Chronology:18 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

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15626086_10103831565174640_3019372488833699997_oRating: 6.5/7

2016 Chronology:18 Wee Heavy by the Bruery is a 14.2% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels for 18 months.

Label:
SCOTCHOLOGY
This wee heavy ale aged in bourbon barrels is the third in a chronologically aged series released at six-month intervals to chart the evolution of barrel-aged character over time.

In this installment of our Chronology Series We brewed a wee heavy – known for rich, malt-forward flavors – and set it to age in bourbon barrels. Every six months, we’ll take a quarter of the barrels, blend them and bottle them. This third bottling represents the nuances imparted to the base beer after eighteen months of barrel aging.

==Introduction==
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It has been another 6 months since the last release of the Chronology Series: Wee Heavy. I am not sure if they are leaving this one to be the last one in the Wee Heavy series but regardless, I hope it is better than the last installment. For the second run of this series, so far, barrel aging has done wonders. I think for many styles this would definitely work out. So as we set forth to trying the next brew, I hope they complete it at 24 like they did the last one. Next year, we will be seeing an Imperial Porter aged for several months. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, smoked peat, Cadbury cream caramel and chocolate eggs, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, molasses, tobacco, leather, dark fruit prunes, raisins, currants, raspberries, plums, figs, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, marshmallows, chocolate smores, scotch whisky, chocolate turtle truffles, almond joy chocolate and rocky road ice cream.

Flavors:
Super Cadbury cream caramel and chocolate eggs, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Jericalla Mexican custard, flan, fruit cake, chocolate turtle truffles, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, rich pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, smoked peat, marshmallows, chocolate smores, scotch whisky, rum notes, toffee, port wine, capirotada raisin bread pudding, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian chocolate, chocolate mousse, dark fruit prunes, raisins, currants, raspberries, plums, figs, nutmeg, maple syrup, bananas, clove spice, anise, licorice, molasses, tobacco, leather, cherry marzipan and rich prailine Danish bread cookies.

Aftertaste:
Ongoing delights of Danish cream, Cadbury eggs, dark fruits, oak, anise, Scotch whiskey, smoked peat hints, marshmallow smores, crème brulee, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and toasted coconuts. No alcohol in the taste, Dark brown full body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn, Damn damn damn! Probably the best wee heavy I have ever had!! The flavors or sweet murky Cadbury eggs and extreme complexity are never ending. I would almost give it the bucket lister treatment if it wasn’t for the fact that there is one final installment in the series. This is utter proof that beers that are aged specialties will age ridiculously to the point where they are supreme. Long after sipping, you will spend several minutes still feeling the flavors in your mouth. This thing coats big time like spirit possession. Which is funny as I do have to say something about that in the picture pairing. Anyways, this beer is a must get as it is aging very well.
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Anime Corner:
Kylie Griffin from Extreme Ghostbusters was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair the colors of the label mainly. Her hair and other colors fit but also fit the other aspects of the beer like the dark fruit flavors. As I tried the beer, I noticed how the flavors just linger for a long time. So long that it was almost like a possession of a ghost or spirit. Which actually fits the theme I was going for as Kylie is a Ghostbuster and the beer needs capturing. It is damn good!

Sources:
http://pre09.deviantart.net/a7aa/th/pre/f/2014/330/9/3/kylie_by_adgrafiteepixel-d87rscf.jpg
http://orig02.deviantart.net/2935/f/2016/226/b/5/kylie_griffin__extreme_ghostbuster__by_luke_kage-dadveja.png
http://img04.deviantart.net/c3a3/i/2012/333/9/9/kylie_by_nessasan-d5mkfck.png

 

2016 Chronology:12 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

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14372433_506770789519028_9207661275792997942_oRating: 6/6

2016 Chronology:12 Wee Heavy by the Bruery is a 14.1% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
Scotchology
This wee heavy ale aged in bourbon barrels is the second in a chronologically aged series released at six-month intervals to chart the evolution of barrel-aged character over time.

We brewed a wee heavy – known for rich, malt-forward flavors – and set it to age in bourbon barrels. Every six months, we’ll take a quarter of the barrels, blend them and bottle them. This second bottling from our Chronology Series represents the nuances imparted to the base beer after twelve months of barrel aging.

==Introduction==
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Released to the Reserve and Hoarders, this is the next 6 month release of the Chronology Wee Heavy series. After a whole 12 months of aging, the next brew is released. For being the first time The Bruery releases a Wee Heavy beer and places it in its Chronology series is awesome as the Wee Heavy style is somewhat uncommon. It is a personal favorite of mine. Let’s take look and see how this beer has fared for the last 12 months, Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit prunes, grapes, plums, currants, blackberries, blueberries, Oak, Vanilla, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, smoked peat, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, rye bread, bananas, plantains, clove spice, crème brulee, flan, cinnamon, fruit cake, scotch whiskey, toffee, capirotada raisin bread, Almond Joy chocolate and marzipan.

Flavors:
Rich Oak, Vanilla, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallows, chocolate smores, Almond Joy chocolate, marzipan, smoked peat, dark fruit prunes, grapes, plums, currants, blackberries, blueberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, rye bread, blueberry cheesecake, Blackberry cobbler, pecan pie, nutmeg, maple, all spice, dates, anise, licorice, molasses, dark cherries, grilled bananas, plantains, clove spice, crème brulee, flan, cinnamon, fruit cake, scotch whiskey, toffee, capirotada raisin bread and port wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with richer dark fruits, oak, dates, anise, bourbon, toasted coconut, bananas, caramel, pecan pie, and hazelnut nectar. Slight alcohol in the taste. Dark brown full body, smooth, creamy and chewy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptionally awesome brew. As with many of these Bruery beers, age does wonders. The aging of the wee heavy for another 12 months has given this one a more dark fruit forward flavor along with the vanilla, banana and coconut hints. I definitely want to see more of this one as it develops more in the future and would recommend this one highly to those that love strong Wee Heavys
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Anime Corner:
Felicia from Darkstalker/Vampire Saviour was used in this pairing for the reasons that I have not used her in any Bruery beer thus far and is one that is perfect with the colors of the label for the beer. Also the racing part is an analogy for how time speeds by and before you know it, BAM. That and Cats have 9 lives so would time even matter. I figured it was an interesting concept as to why use her in this pairing.

Sources:
http://orig05.deviantart.net/368d/f/2009/174/7/5/7522b95baa6cae1f8fadcdc568feaf32.jpg
http://blog-imgs-60.fc2.com/j/i/n/jingaidaisuki/78be039622ed_13AAC69F_061_thumb.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/IW7Id.jpg

Wee Heavy Coconuts by The Bruery

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14317415_10103549287296770_8257949364608329598_n 14322607_10103549287661040_3547984226687490280_n 14212045_10103549288524310_440019086605376842_nRating: 7/7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim VS. The World was used in this pairing to go with the colors of the original Chronology 12 Wee Heavy but also since I used her in a coconut Bruery beer with Knives Chau. This time, I wanted her to take center stage has Scott not only has a heavy relationship with her which represents the sweet and ABV high aspect of the beer but the coconuts and complexity are Ramona’s traits of being a complex and emotionally heavy character.
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Sources:
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/09/ab26e-ramona_flowers___scott_pilgrim_vol__5_by_montanaferrin-d66lh98.png
http://t06.deviantart.net/2ky_i7DV-eB9_ycqzMowhiKkDhk=/fit-in/700×350/filters:fixed_height(100,100):origin()/pre01/bdcc/th/pre/i/2012/005/9/c/ramona_flowers_by_laurelwind-d4leakd.png
http://pre02.deviantart.net/6c7e/th/pre/i/2009/363/2/e/scott_pilgrim_xxxmas_by_maddoxfanx.png

 

2016 Bourbon Barrel Aged Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard Brewing

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11782514_10103215777837400_5957841677464646389_o 13048076_10103215774454180_1897140356579819253_o 13061984_10103215778536000_8915505473470241715_nRating: 7/7

2016 Bourbon Barrel Aged Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard Brewing is an 11.1% ABV Imperial Scotch/ Wee Heavy Porter blend brewed with Blueberries and aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Bottle No 00477

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

Malt: Pale Ale, Crystal, Roasted Barley, Chocolate Barley, Munich, Torrified Wheat
Hops: Warrior, Tettnang, Cascade
Yeast Top-Fermeting English
Color: Mahogany
Aroma: Light Vanilla and Blueberry with hints of licorice
Body: Malty and Smooth
Finish: Dry with subtle notes of blueberry and vanilla

Recommended serving temperature is 55° F in brandy-style stemware. Aged over 100 days. Unlimited shelf life.

IBU: 32 SRM: 75-78
ALC/VOL 11.1%

==Introduction==

I obtained this one at www.craftshack.com. I was really surprised to find this one because I never thought Shipyard had considered barrel aging their Smashed Blueberry Cuvee, which is one of my favorite and common Blueberry beers. The original is one I always go back to so to have it in barrel aged form, this is going to be quite the intriguing beer. I can only hope that the beer is better than the original. I already have a fondness for the original so if it is any higher, it will definitely be one to remember. So let’s see what this one is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Bourbon, Scotch Whiskey notes, Oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, Rich Blueberries, currants, blackberries, cherries, raspberries, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coffee cake, Danish cream, cookie dough ice cream, Irish cream coffee, steamed milk, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows, chocolate smores, licorice, anise, molasses, smoked peat, mint, brown sugar, pecan pie, cinnamon, maple syrup, port wine and butterscotch.

Flavors:
Rich Blueberries, blueberry muffins, blueberry cheesecake, blueberry yogurt, Bourbon, oak, vanilla, marshmallows, chocolate smores, licorice, anise, molasses, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, cherries, raspberries, flan, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut hints, Scotch whiskey notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coffee cake, blueberry liqueur, port wine, cinnamon, butterscotch, rye bread, brown sugar, fudge brownies, blueberry chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, maple syrup, tobacco, wine grapes, smoked peat, mint, Danish cream, cookie dough ice cream, Irish cream coffee, steamed milk, rocky road ice cream, almond joy covered blueberries and sweetened condensed milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich dark fruit notes, blueberries, bourbon hints, earthy notes, smoked peat, licorice, coffee, flan, vanilla, caramel and rich dark chocolate. Despite the 11.1% ABV, no alcohol in the taste, Dark pitch black Crimson full body, smooth, silky, velvety, chewy and syrup mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Next to the Artigianale Draco, one of the best blueberries barrel aged beers ever! The fact that this is in one of my favorite uncommon styles, the Wee Heavy, rich in blueberries, a porter and a supreme favorite beer that is bourbon barrel aged, well, it is no wonder at all why I consider this one a bucket lister. No way would I have ever imagined this one being made especially since I thought they only did selected ones. They must have read my mind. Regardless, if you love blueberries and barrel aged beers, you will love this one. I highly recommend it.

Anime Corner:
Anko Mitarashi from Naruto was used in this pairing as with the original Smashed Blueberry, I wanted to pair the blueberry aspects of the beer with Anko’s looks and flavors of the beer. The aspects of a true desert and full flavorful strength can be summed up by this beer. Her strength and Kunoichi talents works by seducing you with flavors and then taking you out which is represented by the silent but deadly alcohol. Innuendos as it seems, I do imply she is the Smashed Blueberry but with a winner like this, it is a must!
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Sources:
http://www.wallpapers.cyberpk.net/data/media/22/anko-mitarashi-licking-kunai.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/full/429279
http://dc731.4shared.com/img/Rx_Y55Suce/s24/1477e77cbf0/10302118_751220388231663_39300
http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w218/broken_soul01/anko24do.jpg~original

2016 Chronology:6 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

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12376783_10103093350103560_6391439444198691615_n 12747506_10103093354464820_1137082873946893158_oRating: 5.85/6

2016 Chronology:6 Wee Heavy by the Bruery is a 13.7% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Scotchology
This wee heavy ale aged in bourbon barrels is the first in a chronologically aged series released at six-month intervals to chart the evolution of barrel-aged character over time.

In this installment of our Chronology Series we brewed a wee heavy – known for rich, malt-forward flavors – and set it to age in bourbon barrels. Every six months, we’ll take a quarter of the barrels, blend them and bottle them. This first bottling represents the nuances imparted to the base beer after six months of barrel aging.

==Introduction==

Obtained from the Reserve and Hoarders Society, this brew is a new chapter in the list of aging beers. Like last year’s Old Ale aged in bourbon, this year they are going with a Wee Heavy aged in bourbon and will be releasing the brew every 6 months to see how complex it becomes over these times. With each release, we will try and see where it goes. Wee Heavy/Scotch ales are one of my favorite styles that do not get brewed often. For being an uncommon brew, the maltiness is definitely unique and so it is its own style for this reason. This is the second time I try a Scotch ale from the Bruery. The first time was the Sourboro which was a sour wee heavy. Now with this, I am ready to try more. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, smoked peat, oak, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, dark fruit prunes, grapes, brown sugar, vanilla, rocky road ice cream, vanilla, oak, anise, licorice hints, bananas, clove spice, milk chocolate and coffee hints.

Flavors:
Rich dulce de leche caramel, toffee, dark fruit prunes, grapes, plums, bourbon, scotch, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, smoked peat, oak, rye bread, molasses, dark cherries, grilled bananas and cream, clove spice, anise, licorice hints, dates, pecan pie,hazelnut nectar, fruit cake, stone fruit peaches, coffee notes, flan, scotch, rocky road ice cream, brown sugar, vanilla, maple, nutmeg, allspice and blueberry cheesecake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with dark fruits, toffee, dates, oak, bourbon, toasted coconut, bananas, caramel and hazelnut nectar. Slight alcohol in the taste. Dark brown full body, smooth, creamy and chewy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional brew right off the bat. I can only assume it will get much more grandiose over time. As the alcohol mellows out, some of the complexity starts to come out much more. There are definitely a lot of the Wee Heavy components to this and the fact that it is barrel aged, it makes it that much more delicious. I definitely would like to try it as it ages but for now, definitely seek this one out!

Anime Corner:
Cortana from Halo was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label and dark fruits mainly. While Cortana herself might not have a direct connection to time, her knowledge of expertise in the future and the ability Master Chief to summon her when needed “Saves” time but also the time it took to implement all her knowledge is all the time in the world. The FUTURE!

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/aa/36/df/aa36df81275dce5f55ff4779b4a36eb5.jpg
http://android-tehno.ru/_ld/22/64711061.jpeg

Iron Joe collaboration with Avoca Coffee Roasters and Rahr & Sons brewery

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12694700_10103065569166780_6352595915358263489_oRating: 6/6

Iron Joe collaboration with Avoca Coffee Roasters and Rahr & Sons brewery is an 8% ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy Oak Whiskey Barrel aged with Avoca Noir Coffee

Label:
We take American oak barrels and fill them with our award winning Iron Thistle Strong Scotch Ale. Next we add fresh, locally brewed Avoca Noir Coffee to the mix and age it in our barrel room for three months. Iron Joe is the result of two locally owned and operated businesses getting together to make your beer dreams come true… Sweet dreams!

==Introduction==

Obtained this brew from my friend and fellow Beer reviewer, Aaron Mendiola of BeerMetalDude.com. I have tried brew from Rhar & sons before thanks to Aaron, which the one I tried was the Bourbon Barrel Aged Winter Warmer. That one was an extremely exceptional brew that was worthy of a ton of praise. So much so that I gave it a high rating. With high expectations, I will need to be more open minded with this one and see if even this one can compare to the greatness that was the winter warmer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Soy sauce, smoked peat, pecan pie, marshmallow, vanilla, oak, whiskey, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, blueberries, Chocolate, mocha, toffee, coffee cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Mexican chocolate, German chocolate, fudge chocolate, bakers chocolate, coffee flan, coffee cheese cake, Jamocca rocky road ice cream, almond milk, tobacco, leather, molasses and anise

Flavors:
Rich Chocolate, mocha, toffee, coffee cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, soy sauce, Mexican chocolate, German chocolate, fudge chocolate, bakers chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, flan, cinnamon, piloncillo sugar cone, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, blueberries, oak, whiskey, marshmallow, coffee flan, coffee cheese cake, Jamocca rocky road ice cream, almond milk, tobacco, leather, molasses, anise, smoked peat, fruit cake, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, walnuts, praline butter, toasted rye bread and mint.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with sweet vanilla, caramel, roasted coffee, whiskey notes, dark fruits, smoked peat and fruit cake notes. No alcohol in the taste. Dark Brown full body, sweet, creamy smooth and silky mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Super duper delicious Wee Heavy! This was one of the best Wee Heavy’s I have had especially due to the complexity that coffee and the whiskey barrel aging process did for it. I wish they made it into a bigger bottle but beggars can’t be choosers. All I know is that this one I really enjoyed sip after very delicious sip and would recommend that if you can find this one and try it, do it!

Anime Corner:
Original Character was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair something with the woods but mainly the colors of coffee, dark Wee Heavy and dark fruits. The simulation of falling is the synonymous to how heavy the beer is in terms the strength and the complexity of the flavors.

Sources:
https://kazasou.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/konachan-com-175141-brown_eyes-brown_hair-christmas-itoucon-original-ribbons-short_hair-thighhighs-twintails.jpg

Flight Of The Angry Beast by Clown Shoes

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12525224_10103028521590420_3691132951949207996_o 12622023_10103028522563470_7450857629756014706_oRating: 6/6

Flight Of The Angry Beast by Clown Shoes is a 10.75% ABV American Strong Ale consisting of an Smoked Imperial Stout brewed with Holy water aged in bourbon barrels, a Scotch Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout and an English Style Barley Wine aged in Scotch. Another Cuvee of dreams!

Label:
For the fourth installment in our “Beast” series, Sir Walter Scott has finally tamed the creature, who was about to attack a group of innocent unicorns. To celebrate, we blended 1/3 Undead Party Crasher aged in bourbon barrels, 1/3 Blaecorn Unidragon aged in scotch barrels and 1/3 Billionaire aged in scotch barrels. Hooray!

==Introduction==

Another year, another incarnation of the Unidragon beast. This time, they combined the Imperial and Russian stouts with their English Style Barley wine. Each time I try these beast beers, there is always something different and unique about them. Some brews have been made specifically for certain states and are variants of the Unidragon. While I have had the opportunity to try these one offs, I am glad some really complex beasts still come about every now and again. The flight of the Angry Beast seems so cool so without further ado, let’s see what this one is about. Cheers!

Aromas:
Smoked Peat, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, earthy notes, butterscotch, Scotch bourbon, whiskey bourbon, oak, Bananas, clove spice, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, figgy pudding, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, bakers chocolate, molasses, anise, mint, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconuts, macadamia nuts, pecan pie, doughnuts, oreo cookies and smokey notes.

Flavors:
Scotch bourbon, whiskey bourbon, oak, Bananas, clove spice, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, bakers chocolate, oreo cookies, smokey notes, almond joy chocolate, smoked peat, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, earthy notes, butterscotch, molasses, mint, anise, rye bread, caramelized sugars, waffle cone, marshmallows, chocolate smores, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconuts, macadamia nuts, pecan pie, doughnuts, cookie dough ice cream, hazel nut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, figgy pudding, tobacco, leather, tres leche cake, fudge chocolate cake and crème brulee.

Aftertaste:
Good mix of Scotch and Bourbon oak in the finish along with some lingering flavors of banana, dark fruit, chocolate notes, smokey notes, marshmallow, vanilla and caramel. Slight alcohol in the taste but this does not take away from the rich complexity. Dark pitch black body, smooth, velvety and creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
No surprise how every year, the Cuvee of different beers really brings about the really extreme and special of what Clown Shoes has to offer. The velvety flavors and spirits collide with a complex array of deliciousness. There is much that can be said when spirits get together like this and create an exceptional beer that, for me, tends to break the rating scale. Highly Recommended.

Anime Corner:
Tia Harribel, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck and Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach have always represented some aspect of the clown shoes beers in my past reviews. Tia is the Undead Party Crasher/Vampire Slayer. Nelliel has always been the original Unidragon and Yoruichi would be added for good measures since the Porcine Unidragon came out. The blend of each beer together and the unleash of the Extremely Angry beast can be best represented when all three together are looking like bad asses powering up to team up against great foes. The strength and complexity has come together very epically that I could not think of any other pairing artwork that would be the best representative of this beer.

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/2276/i/2010/054/8/1/hot_battle___commission_by_toppera_tpr.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5FJtEATaK3M/VTAYgyGwShI/AAAAAAAABOk/qVd6HEd1Nts/w850-h703/Yoruichi%25252C%252520Halibel%252520%252526%252520Nel.jpg

Pugsley’s Signature Series Smashed Blueberry by Shipyard brewing

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11149564_10102529135958230_2781598019323927543_o 1383444_10102529136846450_8490831672562375219_nRating: 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

2014 The Off Label Series – Perpetual Peace by No Label Brewing

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10903973_10102417201650480_8765580057153125771_o 11024667_10102417202054670_3198865878370204929_oRating: 5.85/5

2014 The Off Label Series – Perpetual Peace by No Label Brewing is an 11.62% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
Wee-Heavy
Aged in Bourbon Barres, The Tannins complement the malty sweetness of the beer, while adding vanilla notes. Fans of Bourbon will love this beer.

==Introduction==

Straight out of Katy Texas, a special thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola from www.beermetaldude.com who sends me this awesome little gem, a bourbon barrel aged wee-heavy. The Scotch Ale or Wee Heavy is a style of beer that is not common but the many I have tried, there is yet to be one that I don’t like. It is an uncommon style but very delicious and one that is bourbon barrel aged is even more uncommon. So when I saw this, I was super stoked to try it. This is my first label from No Label Brewing and hope it is not the last as this one seems super promising. So let us see what some of Texas finest have to offer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, banana notes, clove spice, bourbon, oak, marshmallows, smores, flan, smoked peat, dark fruit raisins, figs, dark cherries, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, molasses, scotch whiskey, anise, almond joy, cookie dough, cookies and cream, brown sugar, toasted coconut and macaroons.

Flavors:
Bananas, clove spice, dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, cherries, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, espresso, raisin bread pudding, scotch whiskey, bourbon, oak, hazelnut nectar, macadamia nuts, pecan pie, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconuts, macaroons, cookies and cream, vanilla, fudge brownies, earthy notes, smoked peat, butterscotch, molasses, anise, licorice hints, choco flan, brown sugare, marshmallows smores, rye bread, espresso hints, graham crackers, cinnamon hints and almond joy chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Banana notes, scotch whiskey, marshmallows, caramel, vanilla, anise, clove spice, dark fruits, toasted coconut, oak and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, Smooth and creamy mouthfeel, easy to drink despite the ABV and a dark coffee full body.

Overall:
I enjoyed the hell out of this one. This beer to me was ridiculously drinkable and very complex. Lots of the bourbon and oak along with the chocolate and all the sweet dark fruit and scotch flavors. I would probably drink this all the time if I could find it but then I wouldn’t be very sober now would I. Totally worth the find and recommendation if you can find it.

Anime Corner:
Motoko Kusanagi from Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex was used in this pairing to go with the label colors as well as the different colors of the flavors and ingredients I could detect in this beer. No label brewing works with Motoko Kusanagi as she is an augmented-cybernetic human and most likely didn’t have a name in the beginning. Also, the perpetual peace has to do with the struggle not only to keep the peace as a member of the Public Security Section 9 but also to come to terms with who and what she is. The beer is strong and smooth which represents her abilities as a tactician and intelligence but also the sweet flavors represents how much of a sweet heart she is even is she seems like a cold robot mainly.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/PGP6Ptk.jpg
http://superherowallpapers10.net/wp-content/uploads/images/2c/ghost-in-the-shell-4.jpg

Five Wee Heavy Bells by Karl Strauss

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10837990_10102260899002240_4064620618864496925_oRating: 5/5

Five Wee Heavy Bells by Karl Strauss is a 9.5% ABV Holiday Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale.

Label:
The next pioneering release in our “Twelve days” series gets its name from the five famous bells of Mission San Diego de Alcala; whose “golden rings” can only be heard in unison once a year. Five Wee Heavy Bells is a smooth, malty scotch ale with rich caramel flavors and a warming finish. The beer’s malt sweetness is balanced by pronounced scotch characteristics; carefully developed by aging the beer on scotch-soaked American oak chips. Whether you enjoy your bottle now or let it age for celebrations to come, Five Wee Heavy Bells is perfect for the holidays.

==Introduction==

The 5th release if the 12 Christmas beers of San Diego is now available in time for the Holidays. I have finally had a chance to bring the 5th one forward while all the other ones have been awesome indeed. I have yet to find a bottle of Dos Tortugas Quadrupel but that is okay as I have had it on draft. This makes me wonder if I should ever find a pairing for that one. Oh well, one of these days I am sure. Anyways, they decided to bring forth a Wee Heavy Style. This is an awesome style that does not get enough praise due to it being an uncommon style. Still, I have tried many Wee Heavy Ales in the past but this one intrigues me as it says it is a Holiday spiced one. We shall see then. Join me this holiday to take a look at this one and see what we find. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich fruit cake notes, dark fruit raisins, sugar plums, figgy pudding, red velvet cake, cinnamon, Stotch hints, butterscotch, dulce de leche caramel, maple, flan hints, smoked peat, malty cereal, marshmallow smotes, graham crackers, all spice, nutmeg, bananas, hazelnut, coffee cake, mocha and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Rich Dark Fruit raisins, sugar plums, dark cherry, Rich Fruit cake, Red Velvet cake, pecan pie, figgy pudding, butterscotch, toffee, vanilla, caramel, maple, biscuit bread, malty cereal, Scotch, cinnamon, nutmeg, all spice, bananas, smoked peat, anise, dulce de leche caramel, flan hints, marshmallow smores, mocha hints, hazelnut, mocha, peaches and cream, coffee cake and brown sugar.

Aftertaste:
Rich toffee, butterscotch, rye bread, leather, maple, fruit cake, dark fruits raisins, dark cherries, biscuit bread, and coffee cake. No alcohol in the taste, creamy, silky and smooth mouthfeel, crimson amber clear body with a drinkability that is definitely moderate.

Overall:
Damn perfect Wee Heavy. It is like they took a Wee Heavy and pretty much added the holiday spices too it making like a Wee Heavy Winter Warmer, or so I think. The beer is great just like their other holiday beers. I enjoyed this one especially for the style. I will definitely recommend this one if you like nice holiday ales and especially Wee Heavy Scotch Ales.

Anime Corner:
All 5 Sailor Scouts from Sailor Moon were used in this pairing to pair with the 5 Wee Heavy Bells as each wears a pendant like wearing a bell. Their transformations depend on it. The different colors are the different variety of flavors but also the whole color aspect is primarily what makes Christmas. This beer is almost magical on its own.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/390164-1920×1200-bishoujo+senshi+sailor+moon-toei+animation-tsukino+usagi-sailor+moon-aino+minako-sailor+venus.jpg

Ride The Lion by Clown Shoes brewing

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10357506_10102006113918590_2348774164646493040_nRating: 5.75/5

Ride The Lion by Clown Shoes brewing is an 11% ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
Descended from a notorious clan of Scottish lore, head brewer Dan Lipke channeled the Tartan tapestry encoded in his DNA to create a formidable Wee Heavy. The beer has been aged 100% in fresh bourbon barrels. Ask yourself, “Who needs to ride the lion?”
___

This beer is finally coming around this area. Clown Shoes has been making some crazy amazing beers not only in the artistic label fashion but the mind blowing flavor aspects too. Their beers are some of my favorites from the east coast. I am really glad they have been able to distribute some goodies in many places. The Wee Heavy/Scotish Ale style is one that has never let me down. I have yet to try a scotch ale that doesn’t disappoint. Therefore, I definitely look forward to this one.

Aromas:
Lots of good oaked bourbon, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, marshmallows, graham crackers, earthy and smoked peat, blue berry cheese cake, flan, port wine hints, dark fruits like raisins, currants, plums, prunes, boysenberries, black berries, grapes, anise, licorice, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice, mild coconut, butterscotch, brown sugar, cinnamon, scotch, stone fruit hints like peach and apricot.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, Bourbon, vanilla, oak, scotch whiskey, rich earthy and smoked peat, dark fruits like cherries, raisins, currants, plums, boysenberries, blackberies, anise, licorice, port wine hints, marshmallow, rye bread, wine and cheese party, flan hints, butterscotch, cinnamon, brown sugar, musty notes, clove spice, banana flavors when it warms up, tobacco, leather notes, flan, blueberry cheesecake, stone fruit peaches, apricots and lychee.

Aftertaste:
Smokey and earthy peat, rye bread, oak, bourbon, caramel, vanilla, dark fruit, tobacco and leather notes. Slight alcohol burn in the taste but nothing detracting from the flavor, smooth drinkability despite the ABV, medium mouth feel and medium to full body.

Overall:
Definitely exceeding expectations for sure. This beer reminds me more of how Stone Brewing does Bourbon Barrel aging with the whole wine and cheese party thing going on. Basically, that is the way I describe oak wine like and earthy cheese flavor. Definitely not in a bad way but I guess the way some beers pair great with certain cheeses, that is all. The beer has a lot of great complex flavors going on here. I would definitely recommend getting this one. Give it a shot, there really isn’t that many wee heavies out there and this one is bourbon barrel aged. Yes it works!

Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber and Arthur The Lion from Fate/Stay Night/Hollow Ataraxia was used in this pairing not just to pair the label with the lion and the warrior girl but the aspects of the lion is what not just represents awesomeness but the bourbon barrel aging itself. As you can see, if Saber is a bad ass Wee Heavy by herself, then the lion brings forth her ultimate strength which brings out the complexities of her. They represent the dark fruits and cherry notes as well as the other complex flavors. Ride the Lion is synonymous with how smooth both of them work together and go down damn well despite their united strength!

Sources:
http://konachan.com/post/show/8124

Old Chub Nitro by Oskar Blues brewery

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1240400_10101956049737610_1043788160705698714_nRating: 5.6/5

Old Chub Nitro by Oskar Blues brewery is an 8.0% ABV Wee Heavy/Scotch Ale on Nitro.
Label:

Rate Girth
A Virtual Planetoid

Description:

Old Chub is a Scottish style ale brewed with copious amounts of crystal and chocolate malts, and a dash of beechwood-smoked malts. While Dale’s Pale Ale (“the best-tasting canned beer I’ve ever had,” according to many brewers and beer experts) is a showcase of both hops and pale malts, Old Chub is a celebration of malts. The cola-colored beer features a dense, tawny head, a creamy mouthful and flavors of caramel, chocolate and lightly roasted malt. Complex and rich, it finishes with a whisper of smokiness that calls to mind a fine single malt scotch. Old Chub weighs in at 8 % alcohol by volume.

___

Decided to get this one as an extra when placing an order on craftshack.com. I have loved this style many times in the past even if it is the a favorite style but one I don’t always get to try. When I saw this one was on nitro, I said with that Evil Grumpy Cat stare, YES! >:S. I had no idea what to expect but at the same time I felt like this one was gonna be good since many of the other Oskar Blues beers I have tried have not disappointed. So I bring forth to you, the Old Chub on NITRO!!

Aromas:

Dark fruit and chocolate milkshake, vanilla, raisins, caramel, cherries, flan crème brulee, bananas, pecan pie, coconut hints, rye bread, brown sugar, coffee, toffee, marshmallow hints, molasses, raisin bread pudding and smoked peat.

Flavors:

Coffee, smoked peat, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, milk shake, yoohoo, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, dulce de leche caramel, flan, cherries, bananas, pecan pie, brown sugar, toffee, marshmallow hints, hints of coconut, molasses, raisin bread pudding, almond joy hints, butterscotch, caramel spread on rye bread, hazelnut nectar and macadamia nuts.

Aftertaste:

Chocolate, caramel, vanilla, pecans, hazelnut, raisins, trail mix, smoked peat and earthy bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, silky mouth feel, smooth drinkability, pitch black body.

Overall:

I have said it over and over again. There has yet to be a Scottish Ale that has ever disappointed. From the makers of the Ten Fidy, this is the best damn can of beer next to that one that I have ever had. HOLY SHIT!! This really blew my mind as to how good this was. I am sure the regular may have been alittle bit less in rating but just step it up with the nitro and you have a very compelling Wee Heavy that can really take on the rest I have had before. There is a lot of complex things going on in this beer and that I can only moderately explain. You really have to try this one for yourself. Highly Recommended.

Anime Corner:

Original Archer character by Undine at deviantart.com was used in this pairing because I wanted to fit not only the colors of the label but the Irish aspect. The red haired archer seem very perfect which reminds me of the girl from the Hunger Games. Also, the fact that I once your a ginger/red head in another Wee Heavy pairing which was the Sam Adams one and that one came out awesome. (Hakufu SonSaku) Anyways, the arrow of the archer flies forth piercing the air toward her target as smooth as the way the beer flows down as you drink it. This is why I chose this to pair so awesomely. Cheers!

Sources:

http://sneznybars.deviantart.com/art/Archer-by-UndineCG-167377911

Backwoods Bastard by Founders Brewing

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10450444_10101900867583090_5215587694190842325_nRating: 6/5

Backwoods Bastard by Founders Brewing is a 10.2% ABV World Class Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy aged in bourbon barrels.

Description:
Big and delicious for your ’perty mouth. Expect lovely, warm smells of single malt scotch, oaky bourbon barrels, smoke, sweet caramel and roasted malts. A bit of earthy spice and a scintilla of dark cherries. It’s a kick-back sipper made to excite the palate.
___

Thanks to my friend Aaron from www.beermetaldude.com for hooking me up with this awesome Wee Heavy. Rated as the 5th best Wee Heavy Scotch ale in the world, this is quite the honor. The Wee Heavy Style is one of my favorite styles of beer that is not often brewed or just not often seen by me. All the ones I have tried are just phenomenal, and yet I have not found a true bad Scotch Ale yet. So to Aaron, once again, cheers for donating this one to the site good sir! 

Aromas:
Lots of rich vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, dark and milk chocolate, very dark fruit raisins, figs, dark cherries, plums, rye bread, brown sugar, smoked peat, toasted coconut, bourbon, marshmallows, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, choco flan, molasses, oak, scotch whiskey, port wine, almond joy, anise, licorice and marshmallows smores over campfire.

Flavors
Lots of oak, rye bread, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, bourbon, scotch and butterscotch, toasted coconut, macadamia nut nectar, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, molasses, smoked peat, dark fruits like raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, anise, choco flan, raisin bread pudding, prailines, milk and dark chocolate, espresso hints, rye bread, brown sugar, marshmallow smores, almond joy chocolate, licorice hints, port wine, ginger spice hints, earthy notes, brownie on vanilla ice cream and cookies and cream.

Aftertaste:
Leaving with dark and mil chocolate, vanilla, caramel, scotch, toasted coconut, dark cherry, dark fruit raisins and anise. Well hidden alcohol, a sipping but very smooth drinkability with a medium mouth feel.

Overall:
Definitely one of the highest candidates. This beer is truly exceptionally world class. The way it is done with balance, smoothness and lots of complex and rich flavors is just up there with some of the greats! Probably the best Wee Heavy I have ever tried. Highly Recommended! Thanks again Aaron, and cheers!!

Anime Corner:
Kawashiro Nitori and Kurodani Yamame from the Touhou were chosen in this pairing represent the label and the overall name of what it really means to be a Backwoods Bastard!! Yes they fight over a cooked fish at camp grounds but that does not mean they should not share. That doesn’t meant you shouldn’t share this one as it comes in a 4 pack. My friend was awesome for passing this along to me and knows what it is like to share the wealth when it comes to searching for the lost beer treasures. I had only heard a little bit about this beer and now that I know, I wish to seek it out again one day. The woods and mountains is where Nitori is from and Yamame was probably lost since she is from the underworld. Just goes to show, how much of a Bastard Yamame may be. Oh well.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/1241174

Traquair House Ale by Traquair House Brewery

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10370970_10101858702986280_3443371439098855350_nRating: 4.75/5

Traquair House Ale by Traquair House Brewery is a 7.2% ABV Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy fermented in oak barrels.

Label:
A handmade Ale Brewed in the ancient Brew House of the Oldest inhabited House in Scotland.

Traquair House Ale is a traditional Scotch ale or “Wee Heavy”, produced at the tiny Traquair House Brewery, located in the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. Brewed in 1783 copper kettle and fermented in oak vessels, it is a rich, complex and deep with firm but elegant flavor. Brewed by Traquair House, Innerleithen Peeblesshire, Scotland. Best before June 2018.
___

This is a beer I had way back in the beginning when I first started trying craft beers. I had this in 2011 after I did beer tasting with my friend Chino. I decided to pick this up to see how my palette has evolved and to give tribute an old ale made in the oldest house in Scotland.

Aromas:
Dark fruit plums, raisins, smoked peat, caramel, molasses, grains, oak, old leather, tobacco, funky notes, licorice, apples, anise, vanilla, brown sugar, dark chocolate and sour dough bread.

Flavors:
Dark Fruit raisins, plums, molasses, anise, funky oak notes, anise, vanilla, old leather, earthy notes, grains, toffee, clove spice, bubble gum, licorice, apples, brown sugar, floral notes, dark chocolate, and toasted sour dough bread.

Aftertaste:
Earthy notes, smoked peat, raisin hints and mild caramel. No alcohol in the taste. Full mouth feel and moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good beer that is not overwhelming or offensive. In fact, those that do not drink craft beer may find this one to be a little heavy. For me, it had some nice flavors but nothing super complex. Still kept me interested for sure and the oaky funky notes is definitely something you don’t see in many beers. A great example of its style. A really nice touch and a definite try for all wee heavy fans out there.

Anime Corner:
Hatsune Miku was used in this pairing since I wanted to show something awesome in relation to the old house and classical times. The red flowing dress represents a floral and funky character that was given by the beer. Yes, she is wearing the fermentation process and dancing. Pretty damn fancy. Anyways, I couldn’t think of anything else aside from the fact that it has some Scottish colors too.

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/182922-1920×1080-vocaloid-cantarella+%28vocaloid%29-hatsune+miku-kagamine+rin-kagamine+len-kaito.jpg

Soroboruo by The Bruery

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10378307_10101822127394060_5934336538667097250_n 1010074_10101822127628590_7370317982538466049_nRating: 5.75/5

Soroboruo by The Bruery is a 12% ABV Sour Wee Heavy aged in Scotch and Bourbon barrels with heather flowers.

Label:
WEE SOUR
Rich malt, sour funk, notes of oak and a floral balance. Unlike any Wee Heavy you’ve ever had.

Soroboruo is a backwards take on a Scotch Ale. Typically known for big toffee-like malt and subdued yeast flavors. Soroboruo allows our wild yeast and bacteria to shine full-heartedly, adding a delightful tartness, balanced by the soft floral notes of the heather flowers. Soroboruo is best enjoyed fresh, but may pleasantly evolve over time if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place.
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Released by the Bruery as part of their Reserve Society releases. This beer was a surprise since it was one that was not listed and was one that was listed shortly after their release of Sucre. If you want to get your hands on this one, you may have to go ahead and trade for it. Unless the Bruery makes it available for release to the masses. I have never had a Sour Wee Heavy before and Wee Heavy Scottish ales are always awesome.

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, proliferation of Sour wine grapes, funky musk, coconut, marshmallows, butterscotch, toffee, scotch whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, coconut hints, leather, herbs, hibiscus flowers, honey, currants, smoked peat, tart cranberries, cherries, raspberries, chocolate notes, port wine, brown sugar, maple bar and black berry yogurt.

Flavors:
Sour funk notes, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, wine grapes, funky notes, scotch whiskey, bourbon, wine grapes, tart cranberries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, butterscotch, leather, marshmallows, coconut, honey, currants, smoked peat, flowers, hibiscus, dark chocolate, herbs, port wine, maple, black berry cheese cake, berry yogurt, hazelnut, pecan pie hints, citrus and molasses.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruit raisins, tart wine grapes and cranberries, toffee, rich caramel, vanilla, oak, molasses and earthy notes. Hints of alcohol in the taste but I think it is mainly the whiskey and wine like characters. A sipping beer for sure with a medium body.

Overall:
Let his one warm up, the flowers, scotch, bourbon and Wee Heavy aspect take over the tart sourness to make it awesomely balanced. This beer is quite the different one. I have never had a Wee Heavy and I really thought this one deserved some major credit. It is not all sour, you can tell there is a barrel aged wee heavy there. The sourness is only there enough to remind you that this beer is kind of evil but not. Overall delicious and recommended!

Anime Corner:
Reiko Mikami from the Ghost Sweeper Mikami Series was used in this beer to maintain the aspect of the beer that is still sacred, which is the Wee Heavy aspect you see, Mikami is a paranormal investigator and the demon Soroboruo is a Wee Heavy that went backwards on its style. It was possessed by wild yeast and is not longer the same. In other words tainted by evil. One can honestly say that maybe in truth, Soroboruo is a reflection of Reiko Mikami herself. While she fights her own inner demons. Like the fact that she is money hungry…lol! Regardless though, Reiko is one bad ass chick that no one fucks with and a bad ass Ghost Buster/Sweeper. Mikami is one of my first Anime favorite characters since back in the 90’s, so to bring her forth into this beer was a delicious move. She may seem a little sour on the outside but inside, she is all sweet and caring. The colors of the label and the flowers fit her perfectly. Let’s be honest too, Soroboruo looks like a Talisman and somewhat paranormal. That and the purple of her dress being the dark fruit aspect and the ABV her passion she has for what she does in her life.

Wee Heavy by Alesmith

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10250277_10101795710623480_779398647083800906_nRating: 5.35/5

Wee Heavy by Alesmith is a 10% ABV Scoth Ale/Wee Heavy.

Label:
Great American Beer Festival 2008 “Small Brewing Company of the Year”
This Scottish-inspired deep mahogany colored ale showcases a rich, malty flavor profile of caramel and toffee offset by hints of roast and subtle smoke. The complex malty sweetness includes notes of dark fruit balanced by a subdued hop bitterness. Wee Heavy is incredible nuanced and in a class of its own in terms of balance and sophistication. It ages very well and will keep improving for years to come.

Wee Heavy’s complex malt profile lends itself very well to a host of roasted or grilled meat and vegetable dishes. Robust cheese, salty blues, and nutty farmhouse style cheeses also pair very well with this beer.
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Been passing up this beer for ever and only really tried it when I have had it at the pubs or at restaurants. Hell, I did a review on the Barrel Aged version and had yet to review this one. So I definitely wanted to bring this one forward as Wee Heavy is a style I don’t often get chance to try and it really is a style I do love. You can find this one wherever they sell Alesmith and it is a year round release.

Aromas:
Lots of dark fruit currants, plums, prunes, boysenberries, black berries, grapes, rich caramel, smoked peat, licorice, anise, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, brown sugar, butterscotch, blueberry cheesecake hints and cinnamon.

Flavors:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, boysenberries, black berries, currants, figs, anise, grapes, molasses, scotch, toffee, dark pepper, butterscotch, earthy notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, blueberry cheesecake, cinnamon, smoked peat, chocolate mousse, brown sugar, licorice, banana notes and honey.

Aftertaste:
Raisins, butterscotch, earthy notes, blueberry cheesecake hints, smoked peat, toffee, caramel and currants. It is a medium sipping beer with a smooth quality to it. No alcohol in the taste and medium mouth feel.

Overall:
Exceeding expectations just a bit reminding me a bit of what Apophatic from Monkish was except the style is not a quad and more toward the Scottish ale. There are few and far between Wee Heavies and this one is pretty common so if you definitely want to see what a great example of the style is, go try this one out. Many of the Alesmith beers are epic and really, you can’t go wrong here. I’ve had this beer before in restaurants and I am glad I was able to give you my thoughts on it now.

Anime Corner:
Kula Diamond from the King of Fighters Series was used in this pairing since I used her in the Bourbon Barrel Aged version of this beer long ago. While she is quietly sitting in the barrel in the BBA version, she is free to unleash in this version. Her colors pair greatly with the colors of the beer label but also the variety of the dark berry flavors this style presents. She is not a Banshee, nor is Banshee only part of Irish tradition but of Scottish Gaelic myth as well where they call her, bean sìth or bean-nighe. Hell, even Mexico has one called La Llorona. Anyways, she has blue hair and is cold as ice like the Banshee which ties back to Irish and Scottish tradition and hence forth, the Wee Heavy style. Like I said though, she looks like a Banshee, but she is not one. In fact, Kula enjoy lots and lots of sweets, so just like this beer is full of sugary goodness, so is Kula. She is 10% but don’t try to take her on all at once, she is a very powerful fighter and will freeze you where you stand.

Indian Brown Ale by Dogfish Head

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539195_10101127263876120_585706145_n 625437_10101127262888100_871650359_nRating: 4.75/5

Indian Brown Ale by Dogfish Head is a 7.2%ABV Brown Ale brewed with caramelized sugar and hopped liberally and often.

Description:
Indian Brown Ale A cross between a Scotch Ale, an I.P.A, and an American Pale, this beer is well hopped and malty at the same time. It is brewed with Aromatic Barley and caramelized brown sugar. – 50 IBU available year round, bottles & draft – Descriptors: Notes of molasses, coffee, ginger, raisinettes, chocolate 
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Right up there with Board Meeting, considered a world class beer among reviewers. This beer fragrance is close to a porter with its aromas of chocolate, coffee, mocha, milk chocolate, rich caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, hazelnut, slight brownies and some raisin notes. The flavors are of coffee, hazelnut, caramel, earthy hop bitterness, coffee and chocolate cake, some plum and raisin notes as the beer warms up. The after taste of mocha and hazelnut stays with you for a bit. Definitely up there with the best of the browns ales in the world. Although the Board meeting was slightly a little more delicious, this is still a great and awesome beer.