White Chocolate With Cherries by The Bruery

 

 

Rating: 7/7

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

Label:

Take a Dip

==Introduction==

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

Aromas:

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

Flavors:

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

Aftertaste:

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

Overall:

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

Anime Corner:

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

 

 

Spicy Mango Cart by Golden Road Brewing

 

Rating: 6/6

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

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

 

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

 

Rating: 7/7
 
2017 Trappist Westvleteren 12 by Brouwerij Westvleteren (Sint-Sixtusabdij van Westvleteren) is a 10.2% Belgian Trappist Quadrupel.
 
Label:
None
 
==Introduction==
 
Westy 12 is back! It has been 5 years since the last time I tried this beer. Back then it was the best beer in the world and even to this day I still think it is the best only because of rarity but mainly because it was an inspiration of a beer for since my first time trying Belgians. The best beers in the world commonly found to me are the St. Bernardus Abt 12 next to Trois Pistoles and the Three Philosophers. This beer is still difficult to get as you have to have an exclusive invite to the Monastery in Westvleteren and can only buy a limited quantity. Also, it has been difficult to get in the states since the one incident a couple years ago where they sold it at Total Wine where scalpers took many to sell online. Essentially, this beer was the best before the new IPA trends took over. Oh how people have forgotten that the old world of beers that have been made for hundreds of years should still be the best over these new and up and coming brews. It is the reason why this style is still my favorite despite the fact that while I do believe the newer hyped beers are delicious, they are no worth an arm and a leg. Also, while this one was hyped at the time, people forget that St. Bernardus Abt 12 is literally the same recipe but commercialized so many people in the world can know about the great Belgians. This is why I love St. Bernardus 12. It is easy to find but because I rarely get a chance to try this beer. I consider it slight above the best but in the rarity category. Let’s have a look and see how this tastes after years of me not having tried it. Cheers!
 
Aromas:
Deep dark fruits, prunes, raisins, vanilla, burnt caramel, dulce de leche caramel, goat milk caramel, wined caramel, chocolate, wafflecone, butterscotch, toffee, marshmallow, rock candy, candi sugar, honey, piloncillo sugar cone, peppercorn, earthy hops, hazelnut nectar and golden apples.
 
Flavors:
Supreme rich dulce de leche caramel, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit dates, raisins, plums, figs, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, Danish cream, leather, rye, earthy hops, Stone fruit peaches, peppercorn, burnt sugar, rock candy, candi sugar, honey, piloncillo sugar cone, grapes, port wine, milk chocolate, candied apples, wafflecone, butterscotch, toffee, marshmallow, bubble gum, fig pudding, rice pudding, golden apples, hazelnut nectar, cherries, Mexican sweet bread, umami, Goat milk caramel, burnt caramel, anise notes, funnel cream cake, honey dew melon, tamarind and tiramasu.
 
Aftertaste:
Rich lingering dulce de leche carame, dark fruits, stone fruits, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, port wine, Danish cream, leather, rye, earthy hops and mild chocolate lingers. No alcohol in the taste, smooth, silky, syrupy and creamy mouthfeel, Dark Golden Brown medium body and a moderate to sipping drinkability.
 
Overall:
A definite bucket lister! Simply because it is one of those beers that you have to try to believe. Granted, I have tried this side by side with St. Bernardus and while I think this one is only slightly better, they are pretty much in that same taste profile give or take. How does this taste to my homebrew? Well, I do have to admit how damn close the recipe came out to be to the point where I surprised myself. I actually made my dream come true and while I am not a Trappist Monastery monk, I have to say I definitely have that in spirit! It is always an honor to bring this magnificent beer to the site when I can and I suggest you give this a shot, even if one. Get that off your bucket list!
 
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach are chosen for very special beers. Since I first had a pairing with Temari, Kos-Mos and Yoruichi in the past, it was only fitting that I do this again but this time with Ryuko too. Being my favorite anime characters always get the best pairings in some of the beers I truly feel are deserving of that ‘Heavenly and Godly Ambrosia’ Liquid status as with many of the beers I have tried, I have used them in the previous St. Bernardus Abt 12 review except with the introduction of my recent favorite girl, Ryuko Matoi. The original time I tried this beer, it was the world’s best beer and the best Quadrupel since St. Bernarudus. It is this style of beer that grew my desire, my love and passion that lead to the the fruit of my labor with my homebrew ‘Las Quad-tro Monjas’. So heavenly fitting, my favorite top characters go with my favorite beers, especially this rarity.
 
Previous review:
 
Information on the Westy 12 VS. St. Bernardus 12:
 
 

 

2017 The Three Philosophers by Ommegang

Rating: 6/6

2017 The Three Philosophers by Ommegang is a 9.8%ABV Belgian Quadrupple ale blended with 2% Belgian Kriek (Cherry Belgian Ale)

One of my top 3 best common beers in the world. True love for the Belgian Quads!

Original Review https://animebeers.com/2013/02/27/the-three-philosophers-by-ommegang-new-label/

Peanut Butter Latte from Belching Beaver

Rating: 7/7

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

2017 White Chocolate by The Bruery

Rating: 6/6

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

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

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

15384523_10103789165219490_3032738358333533454_oRating: 7/7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery

15304169_10103789080474320_7987439589458991028_oRating: 5.5/6

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

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

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

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

==Introduction==
15391533_10103789080509250_489238945353425030_o
The Bruery has recently released their latest Christmas beer to the public and should be hitting many distribution areas publicly where they sell The Bruery beers. An Italian dessert inspired beer huh? I still can’t believe it has been so long and in four more years, the Christmas beer saga comes to a conclusion. Every year they release amazing beers. What I find intriguing though is that they use some of the ingredients that I used in my Sangri Leche beer. These are the Lactose, Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa Nibs. Plus, it’s a Belgian Dark Strong so that makes me think about the flavors. But why wait, let’s see how it is, cheers!

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

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

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

Overall:
Very Exceptional brew! I can honestly say this did remind me of 2 creations I made. The Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell which was a Belgian Golden stout with the same ingredients as this one as well as the partial ingredients used in Sangrileche Belgian Stout. Using Coffee, Vanilla and Cocoa nibs does come through when used well and can make many beers even more decadent and complex. Which makes me believe that it may add the necessary complexity or in some cases dominate the flavors of the rest of the beers. In this instances, it balanced out made for one awesome complexity. Definitely get this holiday brew, cheers!
15385508_10103789080419430_739032231809096147_o
Anime Corner:
Naruto Girls, Mahou Shojo girls and Overwatch girls were all chosen for this pairing to essentially be the 9 ladies dancing. Every year I try to find pairings that match the number of gifts from the Christmas song. It is does get difficult at times but other than going with the theme, there really isn’t anything else specific that matches the pairing unless you can infer some of the colors do match.

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

2016 White Chocolate By The Bruery

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

https://animebeers.com/…/2015-white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/
14712913_10103627994646610_2211130022188027201_o14680822_10103627994621660_5365045827453372948_o14706799_10103627994631640_1365982357579599742_o

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

14570713_10103608095689280_5057221857679121081_o14589953_10103608095574510_2337518422554915656_oRating: 6/6

Home brewing Project#18 La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 12% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.

Label:
Holy Trappist Belgian Quadruple brewed with Holy Water and Oak aged in Herradura Añejo Tequila.
A prophecy, only once told by the highest of religious leaders, has predicted The Four Nuns or Las
Quatro Monjas will return. Ancient manuscripts indicated that the Abbey Nun, The Buddhist Nun, The Shaolin Nun and the Celestial Space Nun will each bring the nectar of God as given to man once before.

This time, however, the nuns infuse the elements of Wind, Water, Fire and Earth to create a celestial nectar. Meanwhile, various religious leaders forbid that mankind ever lay their lips on the very oracle left by the nuns. Lucky for you, the nuns happen to enjoy visiting Nubis Sanctum Ales.

La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad, or The SancTequilified Quadrinity is stored in this very bottle.

Ingredients: Holy Water, Malts, Hops, Dark Belgian Candi Sugar, Turbinado Cane Sugar, French Oak, Herradura Añejo Tequila & Trappist Yeast.
==Introduction==
12418886_10103058656155510_1445281638563665260_o
Project #18 came from the need to surpass my previous skills of the brewing arts. After successfully creating project #2, I wanted to create a barrel aged version of that special quadrupel that I held very close to my heart. So what did I do? I adjusted the recipe to add a bit more ingredients than before including one of them being a small sample of Holy land water. Yes, some people may think this is blasphemous, but in order to make a brew that was truly worthy of monks in Belgium and praise to the almighty God (depending on your beliefs) I added the vial to the brew at flame out. I am no priest but I did say a prayer for the brew to bring forth good fortune to those that drink it. LOL I just hope the beer doesn’t make my friend Aaron Mediola from BeerMetalDude.com catch fire (Just Kidding brother!). So the liquor I decided to use in this project was a Tequila. Why Tequila? Well, two reasons. First, tequila barrel aged brews rule and are to come by and second, after The Lost Abbey made Agave Maria which was their Tequila Barrel aged brew, I decided it was perfect. The beer was going to be about nuns and their worship to God. It was also a crazy idea I really wanted to do. Why is it Project# 18? Well, I had made this brew back in February 2016 and after a month, I put it on the Tequila oak for 6 months. The Tequila was sitting in oak since January 2016 so 2+6, that’s 8 months! Essentially, the 12% ABV was something unexpected but my working with Turbinado and Candi sugars probably had a lot to do with it. Regardless, I bottled it last month and now October 6, 2016 I bring it forth for a review. Yes, the brew will be published at a later date on my site but for perspective purposes and logging this masterpiece I want to get it right. So, for being a quadrupel aged in tequila, I hope is nothing short of amazing and knowing that I can definitely make an awesome brew, I will be pursuing more projects soon like this. Stay tuned, but for now, let’s take a look at this celestial nectar. Cheers!

Aromas:
Tequila notes, oak, Dark fruits of plums, raisins, figs, cherries, bubble gum notes, clove spice, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruits, Bananas, Brown sugar, Belgian Candi sugar, Chocolate, Sangria, rice pudding, tamarind, marshmallows, chocolate smores, lechugilla agave nectar, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Danish cream, port wine, fruit cake, leathery hints, apples and butterscotch.
14570621_10103608095544570_3965367977751071673_o
Flavors:
Rich Dulce De Leche Caramel, Grilled Bananas, Deep Dark fruits, plums, raisins, figs, dark cherries, dates, clove spice, Belgian Candi sugar, bubble gum notes, capirotada Mexican raisin bread pudding, rice pudding, sweetened condensed milk, tamarind,Vanilla, Oak, Marshmallows, Tequila, Mezcal, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Sangria Wine grapes, Mexican pan dulce, Danish cream, rock candy, port wine, leather notes, rye bread, pecan pie, hazelnut hints, pecan ice cream, brown sugar, dragon fruit notes, raspberry Chambord hints, Stone fruit peaches, golden apples, flan, funnel cake, waffle cone, mango notes and butterscotch.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a Tequila and vanilla oak flavors with so much complexity lingering of the rich dark fruits, caramel, pecan pie, flan, sweetened condensed milk, sangria, agave, stone fruit, funnel cake and mild Danish cream. Slightly boozy in the aftertaste but diminishes as the beer gets warmer and does not detract from the flavors. Full bodied Honey Crimson Colored, Smooth, velvety, creamy, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability
14543812_10103608095549560_1843989745241404113_o
Overall:
Nothing short of a miracle. I am very proud of these results. The Tequila takes this brew to another level. I do not give this one a 7/7 since it is not a beer you could find, but trust me when I say you could drink some of my brews. To me, it is my own personal bucket lister in the sense that I really feel I have achieved so much just from trying different beers and now trying to make my own different beers. This one is probably the best one I have ever made along with the Sangrileche Stout, Frontier Tropics and Diablita De Leche Banana Weizenbock. This beer screams some godly ambrosia. Some nectar that even I don’t understand. I can definitely feel proud that if those dudes at Westvleteren or St. Bernardus tried my beer, they would definitely find it indistinguishable from some of their greats!
14524541_10103608095409840_3315750874226109465_o

Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach, KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, Temari Sabakuno from Naruto and Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill make a return in this brew. Since I used them in my Project# 2, Las Quadtro Monjas, it was only fair to get them in the somewhat right attire for nuns they represent. They represent my passion for the work that I do. Reviewing and Brewing. These girls have been my favorite characters from the different anime series that I love for the longest time going way back to the year 2002. Being a big anime fan and the shows I like, complementing the beers I love with different characters doesn’t have the same effect as the way I complement using my top favorites. AS I mentioned in the last review of the original base beer, the name Las Quad-tro is a play on the Belgian word for Quadrupel and Cuatro which is 4. La SanTequilisima Quadrinidad is a play on the words for La Santisima Trinidad or The Holy Trinity. I had worked for a couple weeks not only finding the right combinations of artwork in photo-shop but the right backgrounds. Of course, all the artwork belongs to the perspective owner as I do not claim any art. As I mentioned before too, the 4 girls are the best and the ones I use as my mascots for my whole passion of anime and the best beers in this whole lost treasures of taste and experience. Cheers!
14570643_10103608095414830_3964601462663476896_o

14615586_10103608095404850_6486499741432513920_o

White Chocolate Grand Cru by Six Rivers Brewery

14542462_10103596942510340_487049530732521544_oRating: 5/5

White Chocolate Grand Cru by Six Rivers Brewery is a 10.2% ABV Belgian Strong ale brewed with Humboldt Chocolate White Chocolate Nibs, Valencia Orange Peel, Maris Otter 2 Row Malt, and German Hellertau Hops.
14449917_10103596942335690_5583447361280171398_n
Label:
Brew #4000

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
A perfect and very delicious Tripel. The compliments of orange and white chocolate fits very well. Reminding me similar to the White Chocolate Ale which was an American Wheat Ale by Sonoran Brewing, this one is more into the phenolic and Belgian candi sugar kind of brew and ofcourse, the style is Belgian. It fits very well almost reminding me of the Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell beer I made but without the coffee and replace it with orange peel. I really enjoyed this one and suggest you get this one if you love Belgian styles.
14519785_10103596942340680_8764471340164182927_n
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto was used in this pairing since I love white chocolate like I love Temari. She is one of my favorite characters, but mainly since I love using her in White Chocolate beers ever since The Bruery’s version, I like to bring her to these reviews. Also, the fact that in some of her attire, she looks like a Japanese Buddhist monk, she fits well with the aspect of Monks and Belgian Tripels. Not to mention the fact that the colors overall of the beer and the label fit so damn well.
14470388_10103596942345670_7969050873284079452_n
Sources:
http://t07.deviantart.net/Ringte-dv1dUrqS7E6Qv0nQ-6aE=/fit-in/700×350/filters:fixed_height(100,100):origin()/pre06/5822/th/pre/i/2014/352/a/6/temari___sunagakure_by_dicenete-d8ackud.jpg
http://jonin-temari.ru/uploads/posts/2013-01/1359541928_temari_by_juniorbunny-d51lhsj.jpg
http://img13.deviantart.net/ae78/i/2016/001/2/7/temari_by_abremson-d9mai57.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/–yapFBGgEug/VQyp5zLgnJI/AAAAAAAABAA/9VMwtTm3Tzo/w600-h846/IMG_6260.JPG

White Chocolate by Sonoran Brewing

13235495_10103279164050920_685808086453330665_o 13241100_10103279164230560_931700835449277339_nRating: 5/5

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Pineapple Sculpin by Ballast Point

12747486_10103068363776360_7149669895786199153_o 12669586_10103068364385140_4829048760648427393_nRating: 4.85/5

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery

12375244_10102978464365500_5935363256036572072_o 1781175_10102978476815550_6063849372309455678_o 12068671_10102978480218730_5557919350919305652_oRating: 6/6

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

Label:
OAKALATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto is no mystery to this beer. She has appeared in all the instances I try this beer and may do so even if someday I decide to review the beer again. Temari is simply and awesome ninja as I stated in previous reviews. She represents the color of the beer blonde to gold as in the color of her hair. She represents a partial tropical aspect in terms of the White oak that is added which I refer to “Raw as The Sun” but subdued by the overall sweet chocolate and vanilla which are pretty intimate to me. Temari’s strength is also in the ABV and just like a ninja, will flow easy if you try to consume her in one sitting. White Chocolate Temari, I Love You Chiquita!!! :3
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Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapersdesktop.com/Anime/Naruto/images/Naruto%20Wallpaper%20257.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2015/01/12/584231/fd464741294dd813f56956bd2fecde55.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/6829/i/2013/234/f/b/temari_happy_birthday__by_rikamello-d6jbbmw.jpg

Mélange 12 by Bruery

11696493_10102689869342240_7627504715667227181_o 11728865_10102689869871180_5075090971899538828_o 11728869_10102689870445030_3508370894570958427_o 11696552_10102689871118680_8493687759881446870_oRating: 7/5

Mélange 12 by Bruery is a 16.8% ABV American Strong Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans, Cacao Nibs and Hazelnuts.

Label:
NUTSO!

A curious amalgam of barrel-aged beer seeping with notes of burnt marshmallows and toasty nuts.

Mélange No 12 is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may develop pleasantly if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 50°F (10°C). Best enjoyed with friends and served in a tulip glass.

Mélange #12 is a uniquely debonair blend of some of our favorite strong ales that have been allowed to age gently in bourbon barrels for an average of nearly 22 months. Once these barrels were carefully selected to blend, we chose to enhance the beer and barrel flavors with three of our favorite ingredients: cacao nibs, vanilla beans and hazelnuts.

==Introduction==

Melange #12 released to Reserve Society and Hoarders society alike is a blend of several different beers that are undesclosed but based on the previous melange versions, they include, Black Tuesday, the Anniversary beers, White Oak and others I am sure as this is what Melange 3 composed of and the sequential Melange ones expanded from this other blends. I made a careful decisions as this beer comprises of many of the components that make up the Weekday brews such as Chocolate Rain, White Grey Monday, possibly Wineification, Cacaonut and Chocolate Rain. So I had no doubt that this would disappoint in any way. A Cuvee ambrosia of heavenly delight? Perhaps, let’s check this one out, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella and so much more!

Flavors:
Pure Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella, Mexican Duvalin candy, chocolate chip cookie dough, Danish cream, Bear claw doughnut, mousse chocolate, marzipan and more.

Aftertaste:
Super rich nutella, toasted coconut, white chocolate, port wine, Belgian chocolate, bourbon, oak, hazelnut nectar, tropical dragon fruit hints and passion fruit amongst other heavenly sweets. No alcohol in the taste, Dark yet Crimson Medium to Full body, sipping drinkabaility and Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel.

Overall:
The best of the best and exclusive of elusive beers with no way of getting another unless they make this once again or you trade. It was definitely a special occasion as I tried this one. If they ever release as much of Melange 12 as they do of Melange 3, I am buying every single one!! This beer is like you took the alittle bit from each of the Bruery’s best beers and made a Cuvee. Basically, there is notes of Chocolate Rain, Grey Monday, Melange 3, Cacaonut, White Chocolate, Black Tuesday, Wineification and their anniversary beers and combined it to make this liquid Gold! Aging for 22 months is ridiculous but it is surely something that is truly unique and amazing. If you have the opportunity to get this one, do it!!!

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach as being my favorite anime characters always get the best pairings in some of the beers I truly feel are deserving of that ‘Heavenly and Godly Ambrosia’ Liquid status as with many of the beers I have tried, this one to me captures what I feel is the best of the Bruery which are many of the Weekday beers into one. I once did a pairing with them doing Melange 3 except at the time, it was jusr Kos-Mos, Temari and Yoruichi. Ryuko from Kill la Kill had not come out and it wasn’t until later that I really loved her character in the series as she was a major bad ass. So I was glad I was able to pair them with this heavenly bliss of a beer. Melange 3 multiplied by 4 is Melange 12 so it makes the perfect pairing!

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

1979163_10102669026925610_227415077313366870_oRating: 7/5 * A bucket list beer, just saying 😛

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

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

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

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

“Bringing Heavenly nectar within reach”

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach as being my favorite anime characters always get the best pairings in some of the beers I truly feel are deserving of that ‘Heavenly and Godly Ambrosia’ Liquid status as with many of the beers I have tried, I have used them in the previous St. Bernardus Abt 12 review except with the introduction of my recent favorite girl, Ryuko Matoi. Like I said before, the original version of this beer was my world favorite, my desire, my love and passion that became my favorite style of beer and today, the fruit of my labor with my homebrew ‘Las Quad-tro Monjas’. Yes indeed, I don’t have to explain much about this and long time readers can already infer why I choose them. The greatest of the greats.

John Paul Jones Peanut Butter & Raspberry Jelly by Brew Rebellion

10985607_10102531398239600_8492881136818216328_oRating: 6/5

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

Label:
Everyone Enjoys a rebellious spirit now and again.

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Quadtro Monjas by Nubis Sanctum Ales

10835057_10102484496715630_6037644082732954688_oMy Beer Homebrew Project #2 Review. Cheers!

Rating: 5/5

Las Quadtro Monjas by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 10% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel.

Label:
Kept in the dark for many years, the Four Nuns or Las Quatro Monjas appear each presenting an unforeseen treasure that was hidden from ancient time itself. Legend has it that these treasures were ingredients that were bestowed by the almighty God himself. The ingredients were thrown into a brew kettle by the nuns and made into a holy nectar. A recipe practiced by holy monks today. Folklore has it that some of the original nectar has passed the test of time, passed on through the ages and has seeped into this very bottle…

Las Quad-tro Monjas is a Belgian Trappist Quadruple Ale made in the style like the monks do in the Belgian Monastaries. They devote their lives to good faith and making good holy beers. This homebrew project started as a dream that became reality with a lot of devotion, patience, care and love. Conditioning for 1 month after fermentation, this beer will cellar for several years if kept in a dark and cool location. A beer that is strong in alcohol yet sweet and complex.

Ingredients: Water, malts, hops, Belgian Candi sugar, cane sugar and trappist yeast .

==Introduction==

10377021_10102361534462970_3284171822627444185_n

The time has come… My dream of creating a Belgian Quadruple is finally here. First brewed in January 24th 2015, Racked in Secondary Februrary 14th 2015 and Bottled March 14th 2015 the brew is finally ready for the test. To this date, as I mentioned in the label description, it was my dream to someday make this style of beer and after so long, I finally did it. It does give a surreal and proud feeling knowing that something you always wished you could do, and with hard work, it can actually come to fruition. I always wanted to make this type of beer style, the Belgian Quadruple, ever since I started trying different beers. With a lot of patience, love and care, Now it is finally here! The best part is that this will mature for years well like a fine wine. For being my most complex beer to date, I have to analyze it as best as possible and hopefully the recipe will improve or I will make again next time. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich bananas, clove spice, Rich dark fruit plums, raisins, figs, dates, black cherries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, dark black cherries, peaches, pears, vanilla, toffee, anise hints, molasses, port wine hints, pecan pie, flan hints, brown sugar, rock candy and Belgian dark candi sugar.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like black cherries, raisins, plums, figs, dates, leather hints, cinnamon hints, flan hints, peaches, pears, vanilla, butterscotch, toffee, chocolate notes, pecan pie, buttery Mexican pan dulce, Danish cream, rock candy, Belgian candi sugar, port wine, raspberry chambord, apples, rye bread, anise, molasses, blackberry preserves, dragon fruit hints, brown sugar and butter pecan ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Rich dark fruits and dulce de leche caramel linger with a slight sweet port wine and earthyness. Very small and slight hints of booze but are covered up by the sugary Belgian notes and dark fruit sweetness. Dark crimson body, moderate to sipping drinkability, velvety,syrupy and bold mouthfeel with a very rich and smoothness.

Overall:
As the beer warms up, the flavors evolve into some very rich and even more complex flavors giving way to the velvety notes I mentioned earlier. I really don’t know what to say. So many people really loved this beer to where many thought I added actual plums, peaches and bananas to it. Others thought it was so subtle like a gentle wine. I myself taking my time with it, the only thing was that it was low carbonated but even then this beer was something so amazing entirely I was stunned to make such a perfection that I kind of teared up a little bit. I was so damn paranoid working so closely to my experimental recipe, making sure the beer was always watched always worrying about it like it was my baby and here it is. My first attempt at a quad to mimic some of the best Belgian strong darks and quads out there and it was just… perfect….not overpowering, enough sweet and complexity to make even the lightest palates enjoy. I think based on the results, I will definitely make it again in the near future. Now I know what the monks feel when being so damn dedicated. Definitely feel proud of how far I have made it with this.

Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach, KOS-MOS from Xenosaga, Temari Sabakuno from Naruto and Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill were used in this pairing as well as the label to represent the beer but also my passion for the work that I do. These girls have been my favorite characters from the different anime series that I love for the longest time going way back to the year 2002. Being a big anime fan and the shows I like, complementing the beers I love with different characters doesn’t have the same effect as the way I complement using my top favorites. But why the Belgian Quad and why them you ask? Well, it works so perfectly. The name Las Quad-tro is a play on the Belgian word for Quadrupel and Cuatro which is 4. I already have 4 of my favorite girls and an artwork I had done back in 2007 with colors of the Belgian Abbeys and monasteries, it was only a matter of time before I made the label with them four as my first Quadruple ale. They are the best and the ones I use as my mascots for my whole passion of anime and the best beers in this whole lost treasures of taste and experience. Cheers!

2014 White Chocolate by The Bruery

10704016_10102064060488200_6522346157109251908_n 10690230_10102064058537110_8015519350436253030_nRating: 6/5

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

Label:
OAKALATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Modern Romance by Midnight Sun brewing

10441110_10101855185660030_8849422213577237842_n 10383518_10101855186882580_8116320430953076281_nRating: 5.5/5

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

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

In an exciting collaboration, Midnight Sun and Modern Dwellers Chocolate Lounge—a local artisan chocolatier—designed and brewed a very special dark ale that celebrates our strengths—and weaknesses: sensuous chocolate, warm spice, fiery chili, provocative character and amorous mood. 
___

Obtained this guy at craftbeerkings.com, I wanted to give it a shot especially since I love chocolate beers. I heard this one was a Belgian style strong dark ale with chocolate and chile. Oh hell yes! I had to try it. So here it is, the review for your enjoyment and let us see if this beer holds it’s weight as a good chocolate beer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

White Chocolate Moo-Hoo by Terrapin Brewing

1480624_10101544593399410_356396108_n 1470119_10101544593105000_1955831982_n 1002033_10101544592925360_290551225_n 1455152_10101544590340540_361566125_nRating: 6/5

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

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

Cheers!
Spike & John
___

White Chocolate

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

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

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

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

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

White Chocolate (2013 Release) by The Bruery

1392755_10101469956028300_1900644049_n 65615_10101469955993370_1841643671_nRating: 6/5* This years is same score as the last

White Chocolate (2013 Release) by The Bruery is a 14.75% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans. 

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

Last year, I reviewed white chocolate, essentially the Polar opposite of the Chocolate Rain which can be aged up to 5 years. This year, I wanted to give it another shot as it was released more frequently but to California. If you are able to get your hands on this one, definitely give it a shot. One of my top favorites

Aromas are of vanilla, milk chocolate, white chocolate, oak, dulce de leche caramel, oak, coconut. Citrus, banana, orange, bourbon, tropical fruit, hazelnut, pecans, cinnamon, marzipan, almond, butterscotch, wine grapes, pears, raisins and apricots

The flavors are of white chocolate, vanilla, chocolate, orange, coriander, bourbon , coconut, pears, peaches, wine grapes, cinnamon, pecans, hazelnut, brown sugar, oak, marzipan, almonds, raisins, tart apples, pineapple, tropical fruit, dulce de leche caramel and butterscotch

The aftertaste leaves off with that nice oak and white chocolate goodness with some nice tart and citrus flavors. Definitely a sipper who’s alcohol becomes more and more hidden as it warms up

Overall, still one of my most favorite top Bruery beers. This year’s though, definitely shines more on the white oak and citrus side, at first. Temari plays hard to get second round (2013), so let it warm up and as it goes, you bet damn right you get the white chocolate. Highly recommended if you love Barrel aged beers no doubt.

Anime Corner: Temari Sabakuno from the Naruto series is one bad ass female ninja. One of my favorite all time Anime characters. She is from the Sand Clan of the ninja world, sister to their leader Gaara, Naruto’s close friend. Temari can seem rude and tomboyish on the outside and very cold hearted at times. Sometimes without a care in the world except when it comes to her family and friends. She takes charge and doesn’t hesitate to risk it all. This beer is a representative of her, not just in the colors of the label, the even if she may be harsh in the beginning (tart flavors) she has been known to open up and show her true side of compassion for others (White Chocolate, Vanilla, Cacao) especially her friend Shikamaru, the smart ninja from the Leaf Village (Naruto’s Clan). The part of the tropical and sunny citrus flavors are in terms of her hair (Pineapple, Tropical, wheat wine) and the dessert (Orange, Sunny, citrus, oak). So if you experience her sharp and tart at first, let her warm up to you, you will find the true White Chocolate you’ve been waiting for.

Melange 3 by The Bruery

525218_10101169746700200_609135228_n 179445_10101169749409770_663910014_n 947273_10101169750517550_1530586082_nRating: 7/5* This is quite ridiculous of a beer which exceeds expectations, maybe way too much. 

Melange 3 by The Bruery is a 15.5% ABV Barrel-Aged Blended Ale Dark & Delicious (Black & Tan). Basically, it is a fusion ale of Black Tuesday, White Oak wheat wine and Papier Old Ale.

Label: 
A unique blend of Black Tuesday, White Oak Sap, and our Anniversary ales. Extended barrel aging lends flavors of vanilla, spice, and rich caramel. 
___

If you haven’t heard about this beer, go get it now before it is gone. I kid you not. I didn’t have to be part of their preserve, reserve, or even hoarders society. Either that, or the Bruery was graceful enough to share this magnificent brew. If you live in California, GO NOW!!!…. get this beer

I already specified the greatness that was Black Tuesday and even the greatness that was their Anniversary Ale Fruet and basically White Chocolate was their White Oak wheat wine with cocoa nibs so essentially what you have here is an ale that combines the best of 3 of my most hard to find beers that blew me away all in a single blend. In fact, this was one of those kick the bucket beers that is a favorite of Patrick Rue, founder of the The Bruery. I wouldn’t be this exited about a beer if I didn’t realized that I was able to get my hands on this so easy. I still couldn’t believe it when I ordered it on the site. Well anyways, enough rambling. On to the Review.

The aromas are pretty much of the charts. Ill try to sum up the complexity of this beer as best I can since the flavors of this beer are ridiculously rich. Yes another “Diabetes in a bottle” beer. Fragrances of Hazelnut, rich dulce de leche caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sweet chocolate, bananas, marshmallows, rocky road ice cream, rich toasted coconut, bourbon, vanilla, dark fruits, raisins, flan, crème brulee, wheat, leche nestle and just a lot of sugar. 

The flavors are of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, sweet chocolate, Kahlua, white chocolate, wine grapes, chocolate covered cherries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla beans, bourbon oak, wheat, coriander, honey, wine grapes, apples, Port wine, flan, choco flan, chocolate cake, cake batter, toffee, brown sugar, raisins, licorice, marshmallows, smores, graham crakers, cherry coke, Belgian bread, biscuits and more intense sugary and heavenly bliss….over 9000. 

Talk about a ridiculously smooth beer. This is very smooth, mellow to the point where you cannot detect the alcohol. This beer is like combining Trois Pistoles, St. Bernardus 12, Three Philosophers, Black Xantus and Barrel aging all that and it comes out like a drink from the 4th dimension, maybe higher. My god, if my taste buds could bleed, they would bleed simply because the beer has taken me to the upper echelons of craft beer Nirvana. This is ridiculous. If I would drink this beer everyday I would probably never try anything else. However, because I finally tried this, I can go in peace. It is hard to believe but this is definitely a bucket list beer without a doubt. People have to try this out and the best part, you don’t have to stay and camp out for the night to get a bottle of this. Get it while it last and it is no longer offered to the public. I got this bottle without hesitation. I almost thought they would second guess my orders since I was not a preserve or reserve or craft whore society member. I got this straight from the source and I was surprised it was sent. This beer is sold or traded after market so if you are not lucky to be able to find this beer but are able to be have it shipped and bought online, I recommend this one full heartedly. Bull shit aside, This beer is worth every penny.

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus (Redux)

547438_10101140074513500_1317156498_nRating: 6/5 *Like Trois Pistoles, this is a very common beer. Since my seek for the Holy grail of Westvleteren 12, I realized, that this beer is the closest but because of its commonality and its availability, it has become my favorite beer in the world right next to Trois Pistoles. Forget all the worldly hypes because this beer is truly from God!!

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus is a 10%ABV World Class Belgian Abbey Quadrupel. 

Label: 
Brewery St. Bernardus was founded in 1946 in Watou, Province of West Flanders in Belgium. These exceptional quality ales are brewed by using only the finest malts, local grown hops, yeast and artesian water pumped from a depth of 500 feet. After the brewing process these traditional ales are matured in tanks for three months, before being bottle conditioned. The results is a naturally carbonated ’living ale,’ which can be aged for up to 15 years and will satisfy the taste of even the most discriminating connoisseurs. 

“Bringing heavenly nectar within reach”

Abt 12 – abbey ale brewed in the classic “Dubbel” Style of Belgium’s best Abbey Ales. Serve this noble and wonderfully balanced brown ale at 52-56 degrees Farenheit in a goblet glass to best enjoy its delicate bouquet
___

Here is some history from the Abbey and why it is very close to Westvleteren even without the “Trappist name”:http://belgianbeerspecialist.blogspot.com/2010/09/westvleteren-and-st-bernardus-real.html

I can give several reasons and do many more reviews of this beer’s grandeur. However, it would be nothing short of what I haven’t already covered in the past. I will be doing another review, in 15 years 😉

Past Reviews: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/st-bernardus-abt-12-by-brouwerij-st-bernardus/

UPDATE:
I changed my mind, lets have at it. I still have some left over but also I still have one cellaring for the next 15 years. More than likely, as the earthy hops go down, this is gonna literally be a complete caramel sticky mess but so good I might give it a 7/5 ;). I realize my previous review may not do this enough justice. Fragrances are of raisin bread pudding, very rich dulce de leche caramel, earthy mild hops, apples, slight apricot, slight chocolate, more dark fruits like figs, grapes, slight cherries, banana, cloves, sweet bread, candi sugar, slight peppercorn notes and spices. The flavors are of rich liquid dulce de leche caramel, apples, banana, raisins, cherries, figs, raisin bread pudding, slight Leche Nestle (Sweetened Condensed milk) sugary notes, candi sugar, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, brown sugar, clove, bubble gum, slight earthy hop notes, stone fruits, fruit cake, currants and slight wood oak like the dulce de leche they sell in Mexico that comes in wooden boxes. So there you have it. Now go get this one. Every craft brew place has this, it is hard to miss 🙂

 

Trois Pistoles by Unibroue

392735_10101113207505200_2137198974_nRating: 6/5 *This and St. Bernardus are my top favorites in the world, so please advise as it maybe bias or ambiguous to your decisions… never the less, this one still world class and a common beer at that.

Trois Pistoles by Unibroue of Canada is a 9%ABV Belgian Strong Dark Ale. The ultimate in best beers in the world at a very common distribution.

Label:
Trois-Pistoles is a remarkably mellow dark ale. To complement its aroma of ripe fruits, it has a pleasant aftertaste that lingers on like old port wine
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Enough said, this has been one of my favorite beers ever since I started this hobby. I’ve had this beer over and over again. In fact, this beer can age for at least 7 to 9 years. So definitely will do another review then.

The aromas are of Dulce de leche caramel, Belgian bread, dark cherries, figs, plums, raisins, pears, apples, apricots, chocolate port wine, grapes, vanilla, pecans pie, candi sugar, almost like a coca cola scent, rum, earthy, brown sugar, and whole sugar cone. The flavors are just epic!!… A major rush plum, cherry, raisins, dark and sweet chocolate, port wine, raisin bread pudding, dulce de leche caramel, Belgian bread sweetness, candi sugars, rum and some maple notes. The ale is almost like a Rum and coke but if they were baked in a chocolate cake with fruits and lots of caramel all over and ofcourse the cake batter was made with port wine. While I have had other extremely awesome beers that are super rare and hard to find, this one never let me down, even since the beginning. That is why this beer and St. Bernardus will always have that special place in my heart. This is a world class beer, look it up its awesome!

2011& 2012 Reviews: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/trois-pistoles-by-unibroue/

 About the Legend: http://www.unibroue.com/en/beers/18/history

Trois Pistoles (Three Coins) is named after a small village of Quebec. Founded over 300 years ago, Trois Pistoles gave birth to several legends, including one about the Black Horse. It involved a local bishop who conjured up a good devil (appearing in the form of bridled black steed) to haul large brick stones to construct a new church. When someone accidentally removed the bridle, the black horse suddenly vanished just as the last remaining stone was to be set. This stone is still missing, as can be seen when visiting the local church.

Mayan Apocalypse Judgment Day Ale by The Lost Abbey

224949_10100956403816050_40157343_nRating: 5.25/5

Mayan Apocalypse Judgment Day Ale by The Lost Abbey is a 10.5%ABV Belgian Quad brewed with Raisins, Chiles and Spices. The original Judgment Day Ale with the 4 horseman of the Apocalypse is one of my top 10 favorite beers. So this will probably give it a slight twist 😛Label:
Five thousand years ago the Mayan Calendar last turned over. Since then, Nostradamus. The Book of Revelations and random Shaman have all prognosticated that mankind would meet a fateful end. Currently, our demise is is scheduled for December 21, 2012for it has been so decreed our world is about end not in a Christian Judgment Day but rather a Mayan Apocalypse.

Funny thing is. The Mayan’s don’t actually believe in the concept of an Apocalypse. We at The Lost Abbey didn’t want to miss an opportunity to update our original judgment Day recipe to accompany us as we collide towards this impending Rapture. Like us, we’re pretty sure you can believe in dried chiles. Cinnamon and Tamarind working well together in this beer. This means, you can count on this little bottle of beer to help you survive this cultural Armageddon. Please pop the cork and enjoy this version. We’ve got you covered. See you on December 22nd wherever life may take us.
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So it has finally come….opened this one at 12:00 AM on the dot 12-21-2012…trying this one for the occasion, the special Judgment day Mayan Apocalypse Ale. So let’s get into it…before the world ends today…. Immediate fragrance of this was something else. Being a fan of chiles and spices and Belgian quads (Ale fermented 4 times). Aromas of Cinnamon, Mole, chocolate abuelita (Dark chocolate Mexican hot cocoa), guajillo, chipotle, dulce de leche/cajeta caramel, candy sugar, some minor capirotada fragrance (Mexican Raisin bread pudding with pecans, bananas, spices and other fruits and flavors. Definitely rich in smell. The flavors of the end of the world are a Mexican and Belgian clash. I have never had a quad that was melded like this… WOW….. It took Judgment day to a new level. Immediate Dulce de leche/ cajeta, Capirotada with mild chile peppers (not too hot but enough to notice you are drinking chiles), coffee cake, Belgian candy sugars, pan dulce/sweet bread, dark fruits like figs, raisins, plums, cinnamon, dark chocolate like that of abuelita, and some tamarindo/tamarind at the end of the flavor. In the after taste, the Tamarindo calms anything that has to do with the chile spices leading them into Belgian Abbey redemption. Even the Devil can redeem for his sins…. lol although the Mayans and early indigenous did not believe in such things…but greater beings from the stars. Great Mathematicians creating meaning for the moon sun and the stars… and that is what this is about. It may not be the end of the world just yet, but the beginning of something new…something else. Keep in mind, as my dearly mother one said: “The end of the world comes to those who’s time has run out” explains that no matter what..whether it is the end of the world today or tomorrow…every one is on a schedule to someday pay the piper a.k.a death and will do so regardless of Apocalypses, End of Times, Armageddons, Raptures…you name it….I leave this this…. and the message explained from the original Judgment day ale…Belgian and Mexican alike will love this creation…. so if you seek this after 12-21-2012….try it out… as for finding meaning in your lives and this whole End of the World business…According to the original label: 

“Live an inspired life. Find opportunities in everything to make a difference. Seek out new and spontaneous adventures and when you find them, embrace them as if they were the devil’s song. For an interesting life is one worth living. Challenge yourself to embrace passion, persistence and a motivated way of life. So that when Judgment Day arrives from nowhere, you’ll go out knowing full well that you’ve lived your life on your terms and they can’t take that away from you.”
http://lostabbey.com/beer/judgement-day/

White Chocolate by The Bruery

Rating: 6/5

White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 14.25%ABV WheatWine Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans. The Polar opposite of the Chocolate Rain. Can be aged up to 5 years. 

Label:

The primary component of our “White Oak” ale is a 100% barrel aged wheat wine that we affectionately refer to as “White Oak Sap.” Essentially a “summer” barley-wine style ale, but made with a wheat heavy grain base, White Oak Sap is aged in used bourbon barrels for nearly a year and comes out rich in flavors of coconut, honey, caramel and vanilla. To compliment the already rich flavors of the beer, we’ve added cacao nibs and vanilla beans to give this beer the delicate flavor of white chocolate…hence the name. This is where the ultimate in brewing alchemy comes together to combine flavors to create something so ridiculously sweet and awesome. Now in the past I mentioned about how chocolate rain had become one the best and sweetest beers out there for me, well right in part to that comes this one. The White Chocolate. This totally smells and taste like ripe and strong white chocolate. It is strange because they use wheat so you also get these very faint heffeweizen orange and banana bread in the back. Quite the dessert beer here. There is a lot of flavors of caramel, vanilla, honey orange, sweet bread, maple, strong white chocolate, bourbon, cocoa, hazel nut, pecans, chocolate chip and cinnamon . While this is a strong alcoholic beer which should be taken lightly and a sip at a time, it is also super sweet. LOL like another Diabetes in a bottle. I have never tried a white chocolate beer. This one really takes the cake in terms of different types of beers ever. It is the best “rarest” beer in the world for me along with chocolate rain. That being said, I still consider Trois Pistoles and St. Bernardus the best in the world simply because they are easier to find. White Chocolate and Chocolate Rain are just a chocolate lovers dream. Those and Southern Tier choklat which is lighter. Would I recommend this?? You are damn right I would. Sweet tooth and Chocolate lovers will die with this one. Should be on the bucket list lol. Now I can scratch this off my list ;P

Prior 8 by St Bernardus

ImagePrior 8 by St Bernardus is the Dubbel version of their great ales. By Dubbel or Double it is double fermented unlike the quad abt 12 which is quadruple fermented. This ale I had to give a try as I was stunned by the number 12. Well for this beer, they sure know how to impress at Belgium. This ale has that caramel, brown sugar, bready taste from the yeast and malts but it is not as strong. In fact if I ever wanted a lighter version of the great 12 this would be it. This beer also has some kind of nice wine feel to it as well. Very complex and ages extremely well. Sweetness hints of dark figs, raisins as well as a very subtle hint of hops. Sure a Belgian brew I would try again as I like the different St. Bernardus ones and this would equate to their “light” version. Low in alcohol, full in complex flavor. 😛

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus

ImageOMG!!!…put it simply, like drinking dulce de leche with a nice bread. The St. Bernardus Abt 12 is rated one of the best quad style ales in the world. It is up there next to the westvleteren 12, but not as expensive and recently easy to find at the local Bevmo. I got this one in Wally’s Wine house but say it at the Bevmo in Manhattan beach. Quite frankly, one of the best trappiste Belgian ales I have ever had. I will soon be trying the Westvleteren but this beer is by far really good. There is Belgian yeast, some roasted malts, what I believe caramelized sugar, no hops,dark fruit, raisins, cherries, and fig flavors. The sugar rush hits you instantly but it feels really good. Alcohol is there but you honestly cannot tell as it is extremely well masked by that caramelized Belgian yeast combo. This reminds me of the time I had the Black Xantus. However with this one, no chocolate dessert needed. THIS IS YOUR DESSERT!!. Right next to franzy dark, my next favorite beer 😀

REVISIT: Hands down, truly the best beer in the world in my opinion, right next to the unreachable westy 12 and the common Trios Pistoles. Ahh Quad ales…simply the best in the world. I read more about this beer. These ales are brewed with the finest malts, local grown hops, yeast and artesian water pumped from a depth of 500 feet. Truly monks beer…as brewed in those Belgian monasteries. The ales are actually “alive” mainly due to the yeast strains that consume sugar to produce the alcohol and carbonation. If the nectar of the gods was truly this, this is it and its very easy to find thank fully :). Wonder if Jesus ever had a go at beers aside from turning water into wine :P.