Rating: 4.75/5
Rating: 6/6
2017 System of a Stout by Beachwood brewing is an 11.2% ABV World Class Armenian Imperial Stout brewed in the Armenian Coffee way with cardamom, molasses and Portola Coffee beans aged in oak brandy barrels.
Label:
System of a Stout incorporates the ingredients of a traditional cup of Armenian-style coffee: cardamom, molasses, and a massive infusion of coffee from our good friends at Portola Coffee Lab in Costa Mesa, CA. This robust and flavorful brew is then oak aged, adding even more layers of complexity. Enjoy fresh or cellar at 45-55°.
==Introduction==
An awesome release that I haven’t tried in a while made in tribute to System of a Down. The last time I had it, it was very limited as you could only get it at the brewery. This year, many locations were able to receive this beer. Essentially, the public can now get the brew. I wanted to bring this one back since it was one of my favorite and well in the theme of System of the Down, I wanted to rock while drinking this one. There isn’t many beers made with Armenian ingredients and it is awesome to see that type of tribute many times as well. Let’s see how this one is this year, cheers!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian chocolate, mocha, dark espresso, java, cappuccino, Irish cream, roasted coffee, fancy coffee, anise, molasses, rye bread, toasted coconut, marshmallows, brandy, tiramisu, fruit cake and pecan pie.
Flavors:
Dark espresso, java, mocha, cappuccino, Irish cream, roasted coffee, fancy coffee, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, brandy notes, dark fruit cherries, plums, raisins, figs, cardamom, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, milk chocolate, Belgian chocolate, pecan pie, flan, almonds, chocolate cake, bananas, anise, molasses, rye bread, toasted coconut, marshmallows, earthy spices, piloncillo sugar cone, rocky road ice cream, tiramasu, fruit cake, sweetened condensed milk, steamed milk, malted chocolate and Cadbury chocolate eggs.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with fancy coffee, marshmallows, dark chocolate dark fruits, dark cherry, caramel, vanilla, oak, brandy and earthy spicy notes. No alcohol in the taste, Dark abyss full body, smooth, chewy, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A supremely exceptional brew as before. Full of complex flavors, rich chocolate, coffee, oak, brandy and much much more. The kind that will definitely age for many years. I’m glad they started releasing this one again and this time to more hands than before. I just hope one day they release it more frequently. I highly recommend you get this one.
Anime Corner:
Marceline from Adventure Time as well as Raven/Rachel Roth and Starfire/Koriand’r were chosen for this pairing for many reasons. Marceline mainly since I used her in the original pairing to represent the rock and dark theme of System of a Down. This time, I brought Raven and Starfire using a pairing artwork from Sakimichan which goes well with the label. You can see how the blue sky and upper mountains are raven and the land and dessert are starfire. It was definitely something I really loved.
Sources:
http://artgerm.deviantart.com/art/Marceline-466739861
http://dandonfuga.deviantart.com/art/Marceline-648391984
http://en-so.deviantart.com/art/Marceline-the-Vampire-Queen-386640262
http://sakimichan.deviantart.com/art/Raven-Starfire-684968674
Rating: 4.65/5
Lil Citra by Pipeworks Brewing is a 4.9% ABV Session India Pale Ale brewed with Citra Hops
Label:
None.
==Introduction==
When I first saw this can, I definitely wanted to bring it to the site. Pipeworks brewing has been brewing lots of awesome beers but have also been doing lots of great art work with their beers. So whenever I see something that catches my eye, I definitely want to bring it to the site. This brew while light, it packed full of citra hops. Let’s see what it has to offer.
Aromas:
Grapefruit, citrus, floral and grassy hops, Stone fruit peach, apricot, tropical fruit mango, prickly pear, papaya, dragon fruit, kiwi, passion fruit, lychee, kumquats, biscuit bread, tangerine gummies, orange peel, orange zest, lemon candy and starburst hints.
Flavors:
Lots of Oranges, orange zest, orange peel, tangerine, Grapefruit, floral and grassy hops, lychee, kumquats, tangerines, tropical fruit mango, prickly pear, papaya, dragon fruit, kiwi, passion fruit, biscuit bread, Stone fruit peach, apricot, crab apples, honey dew melon, starburst candy, tangerine gummies, lemon candy, strawberries, green tea ice cream and honey.
Aftertaste:
Finishing dry with lots of citrus and tropical fruit notes, herbal hops and stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, Clear golden honey body, smooth, rich, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel along with being ridiculously easy to drink.
Overall:
A very delicious session IPA. Pungent Citrus juices with a mix of tropical medley from the Citra hop awesomeness. Not a lot of malt but as you drink a great deal of it, the hops and fruit flavors just seem to gush out but with the dry finish leaves you wanting more. It is definitely on the light side and people for a light beer palettes may like. A recommend if you can get this one.
Anime Corner:
Pururun/Polly Esther from Samurai Pizza Cats and Starfire/Koriand’r from Teen Titans were chosen in this beer pairing since I wanted to pair with the cat and the colors of the beer. The orange and greens pair with the flavors of the beer but also Starfire. Polly Esther, although a Samurai, she is still knowledgeable of the ninja arts and can pair well with the cat in the label.
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/euR6nYY.jpg
http://img07.deviantart.net/3db4/i/2016/143/a/6/starfire_by_alex_malveda-da3i7xp.jpg
Rating: 6.25/7
Raspberry Quadrupel by Mikkeller Brewing is a 13% Belgian Quadrupel brewed with Lactose & Raspberries & aged in Brandy Barrels
Label:
None.
==Introduction==
I obtained this brew at craftshack.com. I have previously tried Mikkeller’s Raspberry Tripplebock but when I saw they made a Raspberry Belgian Quadrupel, I had to get it. I do have a crazy sweet tooth for these types of fruit beers especially raspberries. While still in a small bottle like the other one, it is a very strong ABV wise beer. Belgian Quads are my favorite style of beer along with the barrel aged beers. So I think if this is awesome, I might actually consider using fruit in some future Quadrupel homebrews. Let’s see how this beer is.
Aromas:
Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, candied sugar, burnt sugar, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate, marshmallows, tart raspberries, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, currants, prunes, cranberries, dark cherries, blueberries, pomegranates, dark chocolate covered raspberries, raspberry Chambord, milk chocolate, jelly doughnuts, yogurt, brown sugar, toasted rye bread with raspberry and tangerine preserves, molasses, sweetened condensed milk, clove spice and bananas.
Flavors:
Super rich Raspberries, dark fruit raisins, figs, plums, currants, prunes, cranberries, dark cherries, blueberries, pomegranates, candied sugar, burnt sugar, raspberry cheese cake, vanilla, oak, brandy, lactose milk, raspberry milkshake, rock candy, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate, marshmallows, tart raspberry skins, kiwi fruit, strawberries, capirotada bread pudding with raspberries, sweetened condensed milk, clove spice, bananas, dark chocolate covered raspberries, raspberry Chambord, milk chocolate, jelly doughnuts, yogurt, brown sugar, toasted rye bread with raspberry and tangerine preserves, molasses, leathery notes, Belgian candi sugar, crème brulee, honey, dark candi sugar, floral hibiscus, dried stone fruit peaches and strawberry shortcake.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with a rich tart and sweet raspberry marmalade, complex dark fruits, stone fruits, dulce de leche caramel, brandy, oak, chocolate, candi sugar, pecan pie, clove hints and bananas. Slight boozyness in the taste not detracting from the flavors of the beer. Dark brown full body, syrupy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Reminiscent of one of my favorite raspberry beers, Dogfish Head Forte, this is definitely up there with one of the best raspberry beers I have ever had. From the Ragging Passion Lactus Raspear Dragons I made to even the basic Raspberry brown I have had, the use of Raspberries in a quad and especially made with Mikkeller brewing processes, it makes this beer super ridiculously awesome. Now if this was ever barrel aged, it would have to become a bucket lister as it is already going into that bucket lister category anyways. I definitely will recommend you try this one if you love fruit beers and Belgian Quadrupels.
Anime Corner:
Jinx from Teen Titans was used in this pairing as I wanted to go with the colors of raspberry but also the whole aspect of cloaks as it relates to both monks and witches. Quads are mainly a Belgian Abbey or Trappist monk beers but even since the origins of beer, witches have been the ones making beer since the old days. Anyways, I figure since Jinx kind has that witch look about her, she was perfect to go with this beer pairing in my mind.
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/YcWbpop.jpg
https://66.media.tumblr.com/1d69616164fafc5d0db21a7da7f6a4f0/tumblr_nv1gcn3ghL1qfh7p5o1_1280.jpg
Rating: 5/5
Wild Texas Series: Donkey Lady by Texian Brewing is a 7.1% ABV American Wild Ale aged on Apples and Spices
Label:
A Nation, A State… A Brewery
Some believe she is a ghost, while others think she is a living creature. Either way, a bridge, on the south side of San Antonio, is known to be the home of the donkey lady. Local tales state that she will chase you and jump on your car if you’re parked there too long. If you find yourself on the donkey lady bridge, and a mysterious figure appears, smile and realize that you just witnessed a piece of Wild Texas!… Then Run!
==Introduction==
Come one, come all and see the tale of the Donkey Lady! A folklore beer as elusive as the being itself. Thanks to Aaron Mendiola, a scroll crafter of alchemic potions of yesteryear forth with to his sanctum, Beermetaldude.com, for providing this dark art from the unknown. This brew was inspired by the real tale of the Donkey Lady and seeing as this is the first time I see what this beer is about, I wanted to do some research. Apparently, people say it is a ghost while some say she is a creature that is half donkey and half human. The Donkey Lady Bridge is at the end of Jet Road before running into AppleWhite, hence the reason I think they used the apples. Her story is similar to La Llorona who lost her children although she lost her children in a fire and she became horribly disfigured. Now, Texian brewing pays tribute with this brew. Let’s see what is in store for this one! Cheers!
Aromas:
Apple, cinnamon, pie crust, Danish cream, caramel, vanilla, oak, lemon peel, ginger bread, nutmeg, allspice, oatmeal notes, cane sugar, musty grapes, tart cranberry hints, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, funky notes and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Sour Apple Pie notes, candied apples, cinnamon, tart white grapes, coriander spice, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, funky notes, Danish cream, Apple Struddel, caramel, vanilla, oak, lemon peel, orange peel, lime hints, chardonnay, biscuit bread, apple cobbler, marshmallows, banana hints, phenolic notes, cookie dough ice cream, ginger bread, nutmeg, allspice, oatmeal notes, cane sugar, musty grapes, tart cranberry hints and champagne.
Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with hints of apple pie and crisp sour apple notes with caramel and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste. Golden medium body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel along with an easy drinkability.
Overall:
A perfect and unique sour! So much apple pie goodness. I have not tried anything like this before. This is not a cider but a sour and the taste and spices meld really well with this style. The other thing is that the sour aspects are not offensive. It is more of a tart than a sour. Definitely one of Texas best here and a recommend if you can find it.
Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans was used in this pairing to go with the Donkey Lady on the label as she looks a lot like her. That and the cloak sets the theme that works well with Raven. I used an evil looking version of Raven too since it if fits with what the Donkey Lady is, evil!
Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Raven.(Teen.Titans).full.1837530.jpg
Rating: 6/6
Ukelele by The Buery Terreux is a 13.5% ABV Tropical Sour Ale brewed with passion fruit, Thai Chilis, and Ginger spice aged in bourbon barrels
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Here’s a beer that will pluck on your heartstrings. Just close your eyes and say aloha to Kauai, where the idea for Ukulele began in the form of a Passion Chili Whiskey Fizz, made with bourbon, passion fruit, Thai chili and ginger ale. Ukulele’s tone and volume intensifies with each sip, dancing on the tongue with massive, tart tropical fruit flavors and ginger spice, crescendoing with the slow-timed release of heat from ghost chili peppers and warmth from bourbon barrel-aging. Ukulele is truly a gift or reward to share with friends.
==Introduction==
Obtained this brew as part of the Reserve Society membership. This brew was released to Reserve and Hoarders members of the Bruery. This brew is the Bruery’s take on a more tropical paradise kind of beer. One aged in bourbon barrels and as many of these beers go then to be pretty awesome. I have no idea how the chili and the tropical fruit will work with this beer but I have a feeling it maybe something like the Mexican chili candies. Let’s see if that is the case. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tamarind, bourbon, honey, piloncillo sugar, oak, bourbon, tropical fruits like pineapple, lychee fruit, honey dew melon, papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, flan, Chili candy, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, ginger spice and gummy bears.
Flavors:
Tropical fruit papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, rich pineapple, honey dew melon, lychee fruit, caramel, vanilla, bourbon, oak, jalapeño pepper, ancho, marshmallows, coconut, ginger spice, fruit cake, tamarind, tejuino, tajin chili, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, Tejuino, oranges, tangerines, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, Mexican mango or water melon chili candy, flan, cinnamon, ginger bread, rye bread, toffee, gummy bears, grilled bananas, brown sugar, honey, and pilloncillo sugar cone hints.
Aftertaste:
Mild heat lingers (for the chili experienced), lots of tropical goodness, Mexican Mango candy, dark fruits, stone fruits, oak bourbon, and coconut linger. No alcohol in the taste, golden amber full body, sweet, crisp, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel, oh yeah and did I mention how ridiculously easy it is to drink this? It is dangerous!!
Overall:
One of the more exceptional sours I have ever had. It reminded me of Mexican Mango candy. This tropical sour gave me goosebumps because the flavors were tangy tropical but also spicy. There was so much going on and really kept me active and drinking. I can tell this one is spicy but for those that may not have a chili tolerance, get ready. Either way, the sweetness of his beer really plays well with the spicy aspect and the focus of tropical and spicy with the complex bourbon action is what you really get while the alcoholic strength is still small but present overall. I highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Starfire/Koriand’r from Teen Titans was the perfect pairing for this beer. She is so damn sweet and very innocent always open minded and caring but yet if you make her mad she has the strength and power to demolish cities! Yes, this is exactly how this beer feels. The flavor of sweetness and the heat since Starfire is ridiculous and smokingly hot explains the dominant aspects of the beer while the ABV or her demolishing power and strength take the way side mainly because you just can’t taste the alcohol. I really enjoyed this one wayyy too much. Now I have to some how get more bottles but I missed out as I only got one. If you want to try this one, head to the Bruery before it is gone this month (November 2015) or find a way to trade for it. I highly recommend it!
Sources:
http://orig08.deviantart.net/831a/f/2014/055/d/a/starfire__render__by_dafneyaneth-d77x87d.png
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/d6dfb-shunyayamashitastarfirekotobukiya.jpg
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/757/612/9a5.png
Introduction:
The Arbre series as described by Patrick Rue, is a series of Imperial Stouts that have been aged in different types of oak barrels ranging from 45 second toast of the barrel all the way to completely charred. This series was released in August 2015 for the Reserve and Hoarders society. Today, I bring these forth to explain the story of each individual beer taking a whole lot of time and concentration trying to come up with what flavor experience hides within each one. This is the first time I do a triple review and well, I realize this will take me several hours to do. The thing is, this type of review took me a couple of days of trying a couple of sips at a time trying to recall each beer and how it was the same and what intricate parts were different. Essentially, this introduction is technically the last touches as the body of the review holds all my notes. It is not an easy task just to look at the most apparent flavors and try to find the complexity beneath each sip of these three beers but it was a task well endeavored. So let’s see what all these beers are all about, Cheers!
Arbre Light Toast
============
Arbre Light Toast by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in light toasted oak barrels.
Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.
The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This lightest variation reveals young nutty notes of oak as well as raisins and a slight smoke.
Aromas:
Light smoke, BBQ hints, leather hints, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, light oak notes, leather, tobacco, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherry, blue berries, wood plant, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, light oak notes, leather, tobacco, rye, light beachwood, light marshmallow notes, graham crackers, molasses, anise, bacon hints, BBQ, mild smoked wood, bourbon hints, coconut, brown sugar, almond joy chocolate dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherry, blueberries, wood plant, caramel, vanilla, minor hints of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate milk shake.
Aftertaste:
Dry oak, earthy notes, light toasted oak, rye bread, milk chocolate, BBQ hints, and wood plant like finish. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A very good toasty Imperial stout. The Wood is definitely young as it imparts a light plant like flavor with a dry oaky finish. A pretty good beer especially for this that do not like a lot of oak in their beer. Also, the alcohol level is well hidden and does not detract anything from the beer. Definitely worth the try for light smoke and oak lovers.
Arbre Medium Toast
================
Arbre Medium Toast by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in medium toasted oak barrels.
Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.
The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This medium variation show cases a strong smokey depth and caramelization.
Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, cherry hints, currants, anise, molasses, soy sauce, oak barrel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, leather, rye bread, smokey hints, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, chocolate brownie and plum sauce.
Flavors:
More caramel forward, soy sauce, and roasted marshmallow flavor than the original flavors, still some dark fruit cherry, raisins, molasses, anise, Milk chocolate, richer dark chocolate, oak notes, leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, coconut, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, vanilla, marshmallow smores, whiskey notes, sweet potato pie, back wrapped dark chocolate and chocolate burnt brownie.
Aftertaste:
Semi dry finish with the BBQ, smoked notes, caramel, dark fruit, soy sauce, earthy notes, oak, rye bread and dark chocolate. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A very delicious beer that is better than the light one as the medium toast introduces some newer sweeter flavors of soy sauce, molasses and caramel but also enhances the original flavors of the light version of the beer. An enhanced smokey experience a slightly higher level of sweet and smokey levels make this one the next greater beer. The level of oak if a bit higher than before so if you do not like smoke or oaked beers, maybe this may not be for you.
Arbre Alligator Char
============
Arbre Alligator Char by The Bruery is an 11.3% ABV Imperial Stout aged in charred oak barrels.
Label:
RAISE A TOAST!
The Arbre Series explores the flavors contributed by various levels of oak toast in barrels from out friends at Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, KY.
The Arbre Series is an exploration of barrel toast. This heaviest char variation reveals a heavy dose of smoke, vanilla and molasses.
Aromas:
Roasted coffee, smoke,leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, Abuelita chocolate brick, molasses, soy sauce, dark fruit cherry, raisin, blueberries, currants, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, flan, clove spices, bananas, campfire wood, dark fruit cherry, raisins, blueberries, currants, raspberry, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, almond joy chocolate and rocky road ice cream.
Flavors:
Smoked wood, campfire wood, rich dark chocolate, leather, tobacco, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, Abuelita chocolate brick, vanilla, caramel, molasses anise, soy sauce, dark fruit cherry, raisins, blueberries, currants, raspberry, port wine hints, hazelnut nectar, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, leather, tobacco, rye, beachwood, brown sugar, toffee, bourbon hints, toasted coconut, smoking wood, brownie batter, butterscotch, sweetened condensed milk, flan, clove spices and bananas.
Aftertaste:
Syrupy burnt chocolate notes, smokey burnt oak, BBQ sauce hints, vanilla, dark fruits, earthy notes, hazelnut nectar, molasses and toffee lingers. No alcohol in the taste, Pitch black dark full body, creamy, smooth and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
The exceptional charred oaked one releases even more complexity. I think of the 3, overall I really like this one. Trying each is almost like a build up beer. Something I don’t think I have ever done before nor have a taken a careful analysis of each to be able to do 3 at a time, side by side comparisons. While this one is the one I like the most, the more charred and oaked flavors may not be for everyone so if you love charred, oaked and smoked beers, this is a king type of beer. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans graces these three Bruery pairings with dark and hell delights. Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos! Are the words that grace each of the three beers, all unique and delicious. Since she was born half human, half demon it fits the beers in terms of her powers ranging from light being the more gentle human and sweet side as we can see in the beer pairing and the flavors but then you can see as she slowly goes higher in power, so does the fire. Burning with rage until reaching the third beer which is where she is in control of her full powers, we can see that at the Alligator charred stage, lots more burning more than oak flavors appear signifying that of a demon burning in hell or in this case, the beer. The aspect Arbre being that of trees fits with the night appearance of the beer as the Ravens linger in the night and so does Raven herself.
Rating: 4.5/5 Light Toast
Rating: 4.85/5 Medium Toast
Rating: 5.25/6 Alligator Char
Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapers.in/walls/raven-HD.jpg
http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20141201001048/ssb/images/thumb/5/59/Teen_Titans_Raven_.jpg/1280px-Teen_Titans_Raven_.jpg
http://www.zerochan.net/1055635#full
http://images-cdn.moviepilot.com/images/c_fill,h_995,w_640/t_mp_quality/u0jjzwntnjn2nkdomdu5/4-og-s-who-could-kill-mkx-shinnok-in-mortal-kombat-506228.jpg
Rating: 5/5
Photosphere Phil by Clown Shoes brewing is a 7.5% ABV American IPA
Label:
Most humans recline on a chaise lounge by the pool, or at the beach. Not Phil, the Clown Shoe rep for CA. Phil motors up to the photosphere of our sun, where a temperature of 6000 K does not defeat his epic ability to chill. The beer is built off the recipe for Space Cake, but with a lower ABV, more crisp body, and Citra hops.
==Introduction==
A California only Clown Shoes release. I was kind of hoping we saw a Unidragon variant, but oh well. Maybe next time. Never the less, I still wanted to bring this one forward as it is a lighter version of the Space Cake but with Citra hops. I obtained this one at the local Ramirez Warehouse in Boyle Heights. I really liked Space Cake so I am definitely curious to see how this one changes with less ABV. Let’s check how the session feels with this beer.
Aromas:
Mango, oranges, orange peel, lemons, grapefruit, piney, floral, grassy and citrus hops, tropical fruis like pineapple, dragon fruit, guava, lemon peel, papaya, lychee, cherries, tangerine, biscuit bread and berry notes.
Flavors:
Citrus, lemony, grapefruit, piney, floral, grassy and dank hops,Orange peel, great amount of tropics of guava, mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, papaya, pineapple, strawberry notes, lychees, sweetened condensed milk hints, caramel, raspberry hints, biscuit bread, caramel, toffee, tangerines, peaches apricots, chocolate cherry hints, cream-sickle hints, vanilla, gummy bears and prickly pears.
Aftertaste:
Tropical fruit notes linger, lots of orange, grapefruit, stone fruit hints, biscuit bread, sweet cream and cherry hints. No alcohol in the taste, smooth, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel, golden honey light body and easy to drink.
Overall:
I don’t know what to say but this beer is just as awesome and more drinkable than Space Cake. A perfect IPA!! Some of the elements I enjoyed from space cake are there for sure and while some of the flavors are hinted than they were in Space cake, the other citrus and tropical notes are more forward. This maybe a California only beer but I’m sure you can get this online before it is gone. In fact, get several as this beer is very easy going!
Anime Corner:
Koriand’r a.k.a Starfire from Teen Titans was used in this pairing as I wanted to find a character that would pair with the fiery sun but also the whole Space Cake aspect of the beer. Her colors go well with the color’s of Phil’s couch and just lounging. Starfire is as strong as the strength of the hops but is also as gentle as the drinkability and lighter side of the space beer.
Sources:
http://sakimichan.deviantart.com/art/Starfire-Teen-titan-511386913
Rating: 4.75/5
Three-Eyed Raven by Game of Thrones and Ommegang is a 7.2% ABV Dark Saison/Farmhouse Ale.
Label:
FROM THE DARKNESS I WATCH YOU. ALL OF YOU, ALL OF YOUR LIVES, WITH A THOUSAND EYES, AND ONE. ABIDING IN THE SHADOWS OF THIS DARK SAISON LIE BEGUILING AND ENTRANCING AROMAS AND FLAVORS – GIRDED BY CRISP, LASTING HERBAL HOP NOTES, AND A YEASTY, SPICY FINISH. POUR SLOWLY, TO NOT DISTURB YEAST SEDIMENT, BUT WITH VIGOR TO MAKE A LUXURIOUS HEAD AND FREE BOUQUET.
==Introduction==
Obtained this one at the local Total Wine and More by my work place. This is the 5th beer in the line of Game of Thrones beers brewed by Ommegang for the fans of the show. Personally I have not seen the show and need to find some time to do so as I do find plenty of time to drink and review some of these specials beers after all. This one is a Dark Saison or Farmhouse Ale. The only thing that I have had close to a dark saison could be what is the Folklore Belgian Stout from Stillwater Artisanal but that is not true as those are also more complex and roasty. A dark saison seems like something very unique. Well, since I have never had a dark saison, let us see how close to a regular saison it is.
Aromas:
Phenolic bananas and biscuit notes, clove and peppercorn spices, Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherry, grapes, rock candy, candi sugar, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, roasted barley, coffee cake hints, brown sugar, dark chocolate, farmhouse notes and stone fruit hints.
Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherry, grapes, banana, clove spices, peppercorns, Lavender, farmhouse hay, dark chocolate, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, roasted barley, spicy hops, Stone fruit peaches, apricots, Belgian candi sugar, brown sugar and rock candy and port wine hints.
Aftertaste:
Peppercorns, clove spice, dark chocolate, dark fruits, lavender, farmhouse hay and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, moderate drinkability, creamy and full mouthfeel and a thick dark crimson body.
Overall:
A very good Saison which actually borderlines a Dark Belgian Ale. Somehow it keeps of those saison characteristics but brings in some of the awesome Banana, dark fruit, caramel and phenolic flavors typically found in quads, Belgian Dark ales or even some Belgians Stouts. I truly think of all the 5 in the Game of throne series beers by Ommegang, this one is possibly my favorite. I would definitely recommend it if you love Belgian ales. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans was used in this pairing as I wanted to find a character from anime, or in this case comics, that would pair with the way the Three-Eyed Raven looks in the show. Always in darkness and in cloak. The most obvious was Raven from the Teen Titans as she has those looks and also the 3 eyed part can be seen as she has her regular 2 eyes and the red jewel on her forehead used as a bindi which can be seen as the Ajna Chakra or Third-Eye Chakra. The colors she wears also pairs with the colors of the different dark fruits that can be found in this beer and the complex aspect of the beer is the complex aspect of her character.
Sources:
http://sakimichan.deviantart.com/art/Raven-Teen-Titan-511165333
http://yuumei.deviantart.com/art/Teen-Titans-Raven-Commission-148931734
Rating: 5.35/5
2012 Hellshire II by Oakshire brewing is a 10.5% ABV Double/Imperial Stout aged in Buffalo Trace and Heaven Hill Bourbon Barrels for 7 months and bottle aged for 2 years
Label:
Deep within the recesses of the alcoves & antechambers of Oakshire Brewing lies another realm. It’s a place where carefully fermented beers are laid to rest in oaken sarcophagi. They slumber for aeons & emerge as wholly new & unique entities, fueling the malformed creatures that populate those blasted and eldritch wastes. That place is HELLSHIRE.
Hellshire II is an Imperial Stout aged for 6 months in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. Notes of vanilla, coconut, chocolate, roasted coffee, oak & bourbon intertwine with the beer’s complex malt flavors. It’s ready to enjoy now or can be cellared cool and dry for several years. Cheers! Mat Van Wyk, Brewmaster.
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Like the Hellshire I, in 2012 I traded for this beer. Stories of lore told that this beer was infected and the brewery had apologized. Despite this, I had reviewed one which I enjoyed and aged another for to be drink 2 years later. I wanted to check on its status of infection, that is, if it really was true. It really wasn’t bad back then. Nothing different than what I would have had from a lightly soured Jolly Pumpkin Madrugada Obscura, except aged in bourbon barrels. So Now, 2 years later, I resurrect the angel of death to bring you forth the Hellshire II. As enjoyed the Hellshire III earlier this year which came out in 2013, let is see if this beer has completely gone bad or has evolved into something awesome. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruits like raisins, prunes, tart raspberry skins, dark cherry, currants and blue berry yogurt, musty notes, smokey oak, port wine, vanilla, caramel, bourbon, wine grapes, Kahlua, roasted coffee grounds, mocha, anise, chocolate brownies, earthy notes, molasses, bourbon, musty notes and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Dark fruits like Blueberries, blackberries, tart currants, wine grapes, raisins, prunes, figs and dark cherry yogurt, dark fruit raisins, mocha, rich dark chocolate, bourbon, port wine, caramel, vanilla, coconut, smokey notes, roasted coffee grounds, earthy notes, molasses, anise, flan hints, Kahlua, brownies, port wine, funky oak, smokey notes, milk chocolate, smokey oak, licorice hints and tart raspberries.
Aftertaste:
Blueberry yogurt, dark chocolate, caramel, earthy notes, vanilla, bourbon, tart dark fruit and dark cherries, mocha, roasted coffee and smokey notes. No alcohol in the taste, Very smooth despite the ABV, pitch black as night and death body, light to syrupy mouth feel.
Overall:
Absolutely wonderful!! Despite the fact that there is this sour notes, they are very well controlled. This is not your typical over puckering sour. Oh Hell NO! This is quite awesome. The Imperial Stout and bourbon aspects are the ones in controlled only letting a slight sour bitter taste enhance the dark fruits into an oblivion of like a tart dark cherry yogurt and oak. Think of Madrugada Obscura. I would highly recommend this one if you like sour stouts only. Seems like an acquired but regardless, I definitely realized, this one aged great.
Anime/Comic Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans was used in the original Hellshire II. I wanted to bring her back for the 2nd review to show her as a stronger and more flavorful Imperial stout than the original. Right away,m you should be able to tell that Raven pairs greatly with the all aspects of the beer like the darkness of pitch black, death, hell, the label colors, the flavors and the strength of the beer. The first art depicts of how even though she has become stronger, the markings on her body (depicting the infection of the beer) have not stopper her but rather have given here an immense flavor complex and provided a balance to what would have been a pure sour beer but instead focused on the balance overall instead. Great job to Raven!!
Sources:
http://ramy.deviantart.com/art/Raven-271528390
http://yuumei.deviantart.com/art/Raven-Teen-Titans-161642708
Rating: 5.9/5
Blasphemy 2013 edition by Weyerbacher 11.8% ABV Belgian Quadruple aged in Whiskey Barrels
Label:
Blasphemy is our award winning QUAD aged in bourbon barrels. But not overaged, so we’ve picked up gentle vanilla oaky notes which complement rather than supersede the complex qualities that already make QUAD such an incredible beer.
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Third Time’s a charm with this one. This is the 3rd time I review this beer and every time it is always one of the best Pecan Pie Quads ever. This year they are sporting a new label. Really awesome. This one I was able to get online as it is not sold from what I have seen, here in California.
Aromas:
Lots pecan pie, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut, whipped cream, buttered toffee, bananas, coconut, oak and a ton of dark fruits like raisins, plums, cherries, figs, some wine characters champagne and flan.
Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, hazelnut, honey, walnuts, raisin bread pudding, vanilla ice cream, waffle cone, Irish cream, bananas, toasted coconut, oak, butterscotch, bourbon whiskey, cherries, dark fruits like raisins, plums, blue and black berries, port wine, apples, peaches, pears and some graham crackers and marshmallows.
Aftertaste:
The sweet vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, raisin bread pudding, rich pecan pie , hazelnut and bourbon notes linger for a while. The beer is a sipper with the alcohol only coming through as needed but not to detract from the sweet flavors. You get the bourbon and the quad flavors fine.
Overall:
Very similar to previous years and each just more exquisite. The 2 year version seems to be more hefty and buttery than this one but this is still over the top. Close to being on of my favorite quads in the world. Worth a pick up if you can find it. Belgian and Barrel Aged beer loves may love this one
Anime Corner:
Raven from Teen Titans I used for the new pairing to represent the new label colors. I used Raven to signify the raven that is on the label. I also used Dark Angel by Nezu-nyan of Deviant art in the original pairing of beer because everything from the background, to the raven, the cemetery and the blue night sky was part of the original label. Couldn’t find a better pairing
Rating: 4.23/5
Trickster by Midnight Sun Brewing is a 7% ABV Belgian Ale brewed with Pumpkins and Spices
Label:
OK, what do you get when we toss pale malted barley, pumpkin and spices into a stainless steel cauldron then stir in some magic? Trickster!
The “magic” is actually mischievous Belgian yeast at play. This spooky cool brew will make your glass glow bright despite the gloominess of the season. So… U wanna fool around?
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Trick or Treat? Which one is the better beer? The Belgian Pumpkin or the Pumpkin stout? Never heard of a second pumpkin release from Midnight Sun, especially a pumpkin beer made with Belgian yeast. This I definitely had to try.
Aromas are a lot like Tripel, peach, candy sugars, plums, herbal notes, floral notes, biscuit bread, dulce de leche caramel, cloves and pepper. It also has some of the nice pumpkin notes in there, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger bread, all spice, rye and barley
The flavors are definitely along the lines of a Tripel but with pumpkin and spices. Pumpkin, rich peppercorns, rye bread, caramel, apricot, plum, cinnamon, apples, pear, clove spice, coriander, nutmeg and ginger bread
Aftertaste is malty, spicy, earthy, peppery and sweet. A moderate sipping beer. Balance is average to below average.
Overall it is a pretty good beer but not at being a pumpkin beer. This seems to do well in the beginning but the balance of pumpkin and Tripel only work for a short period of time. It leans more towards a tripel than anything and the pumpkin fades. Better than other pumpkin beers but still not a pumpkin beer and the flavors only for for an instant and fade into something else. I would recommend giving this a try once as it works as a Belgian Tripel a little better than pumpkin. Although it does get better as it warms up. I liked Midnight Sun over this one, so much that I had it twice. This one should be a one timer though just to say you had a Belgian Pumpkin beer.
Rating: 5.45/5
Lugene Chocolate Milk Stout by Odell Brewing is an 8.5%ABV Milk Chocolate Stout
Label:
If you’ve ever been to our brewery, you’ve likely seen the old, beat-up truck that hauls away our spent grain. That truck belongs to Lugene, who’s been feeding his dairy cows the hearty malt for over a decade. Named in his honor, Lugene Chocolate Milk Stout is brewed with milk sugar and milk chocolate. The rich and creamy brew reminds us of a cold glass of chocolate milk and our hometown “Aggie” roots.
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This beer started off really good right off of the bottle. It reminded me a lot of the Moohoo from Terrapin but this one seems to emphasize even more on chocolate. Fragrances are of Rich milk chocolate, vanilla, caramel crème, very small coffee notes and chocolate cake aroma. The flavors say a lot. I find more of a mocha flavor than a coffee flavor. There is rich flavors of milk chocolate, vanilla, caramel, vanilla crème, buttery chocolate, some dark fruits, some hazelnut and some minor chocolate bready flavors. The aftertaste lingers of chocolate and more chocolate. Carbonation is super low so it makes this one ridiculously drinkable for a 8.5% ABV. Well that and the delicious flavors. The review is a bit over my expectations as well… I am a chocolate lover and many of the beers that have past my expectations are in the realms of super chocolate or just my favorite styles like Barrel aged Belgian Quads and Stouts.
Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore) 
