Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 12 Beers of Christmas, 8 Maids A Milking, aged in Bourbon Barrels, Ayeka Masaki Jurai, Belgian Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking, Imperial Milk Stout, Kiyone Makibi, Mihoshi, Nagi, Ryo-Ohki, Ryoko Hakubi, sasami, Sweet Stout, Tenchi, Tenchi Muyo, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Washu Hakubi | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.25/7

Bourbon Barrel Aged 8 Maids A Milking by The Bruery is an 13.7% ABV Belgian Imperial Milk Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

This is what happens when eight maids lay down in bourbon barrels for a year: a rare display of darker, velvety chocolate notes to 8 Maids-a-Milking, the eighth beer in our 12 Days of Christmas series.

This is 8 Maids-A-Milking, the eighth beer in our 12 Days of Christmas series, aged in bourbon barrels for about a year. The Belgian-style imperial milk stout emerges this holiday season with deeper, richer, darker milk chocolate notes, along with amplified roastiness and ripples of caramel, coconut and vanilla character. Drink alongside the 2015 release to revel in the udderances achieved through barrel-aging.

==Introduction==

Released to the Reserve and Hoarders society. This beer is based on the original 8 Maids A Milking which was released in 2015. The original was very damn delicious. The Belgian Imperial Milk Stout isn’t something that is always brewed. The last time I had one was when I made the Trappist Milk Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels which was the Oblivixen’s Maelstrom. I had recalled there were some flavors of the Bruery’s 8 Maids a Milking in that beer but ofcourse mines was amped up several degrees with barrel aging and different ingredients. Now that we have the barrel aged version of what I think is one of the Bruery’s best Christmas beers, let’s have a look and see if this is worth finding, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich oak, bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugar, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, chocolate cherry cordials, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses and bananas.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, chocolate cherry cordials, vanilla, oak, bourbon, toasted coconut, dulce de leche caramel, dark candi sugar, Stone fruit peach hints, peach preserves, apricots, mango, lychee fruit, rocky road ice cream, bananas, clove spice, milk sugar, rock candy, pistachio ice cream, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Yoohoo chocolate, peanut butter notes, cocoa krispies, hazelnut nectar, mocha, roasted coffee notes, marshmallow smores, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, tres leches cake, crème brulee, brown sugar, molasses, mints, anise and toasted rye bread.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with oak, bourbon, milk sugar, chocolate, dark fruit, stone fruit, mocha, marshmallow smores, vanilla, caramel, earthy notes and coffee cake. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, super smooth, creamy, frothy, very rich and creamy mouthfeel, with a drinkability that does not equate to its ABV.

Overall:
Holy shit, this is a real mind blow! The original was one of my favorite Belgian Milk Stouts aside from my own creation. This barrel aged version is even more insane. You get the great barrel aging flavors that the Bruery’s process gives and still get a lot of the original but definitely enhanced into a new level of oblivion. The chocolate milk, toasted coconut, dark fruit and caramel goodness is really over the top. If you do decide to get this one, definitely get several of these, you won’t regret it!

Anime Corner:
Ryoko Hakubi, Ayeka Masaki, Washu Hakubi, Ryo-Ohki, Mihoshi, Sasami, Kiyone Makibi and Nagi of the Tenchi Muyo in Tokyo series were included in this pairing to represent the 8 maids-a-milking. Tenshi Masaki and the other characters are not one of them as I included Ryo-Ohki who is a girl and is Ryoko’s spaceship but also is in love with Tenchi and well, all of them are Tenchi’s harem so Tenchi is in the picture by default just like the previous beer review. They are his 8 maids-a-milking. Not literally I hope but they all work the farm in the Tenchi Muyo series while there are no Space havocs about ofcourse.

Sources:
http://todoanimes.com/img/animes/fondos/382.jpg

Mélange 10 (Mélange X) by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Backstreet Billiards, Barleywine, Beer Hybrid, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chiles, Cinnamon, May, Mélange 10, Mélange X, Mexican Chocolate, mole, Old Ale, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Mélange 10 (Mélange X) by The Bruery is a 15% ABV Old Ale and Barleywine Hybrid brewed with Chiles, Mexican Chocolate & Cinnamon and aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
60% Bourbon barrel aged Anniversary ale and
40% Bourbon barrel aged barleywine with chilies, chocolate, and cinnamon.

A Hoarders Society competition yielded this south of the border blend of Bourbon barrel aged Anniversary and Barrel Aged Old Richland with Ancho chiles and Mexican-style chocolate.

Mélange #10 was designed by Hoarders Society members for Hoarders Society members. This barrel aged specialty is best enjoyed fresh, but may develop pleasantly if cellared properly.
==Introduction==

Released originally for the Hoarders society and then in 2016, released to Reserve society members. I had actually missed out on this one due to that reason. It does seem that a good amount of Hoarder exclusive beers have started to become available to the lower tiers as the years go in. In fact, it is getting to the point where some of the old releases will see public releases in the future. This release is definitely different as they are not using part of a stout but an old ale and barleywine. So the use of the Mexican chocolate, chilies and cinnamon will definitely make for one very unique brew. Let’s just see if it is worthy of the praise, cheers!

Aromas:
Ginger bread, nutmeg, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, figs, cherries, currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, flan, bananas, clove spice, marshmallows, Molé spices, coconut hints, coffee cake, tobacco hints, vanilla, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, and molasses.

Flavors:
Rich chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, flan, pecan pie, stone fruit peach cobbler, brown sugar, nutmeg, ginger bread, pan dulce, capirotada raisin bread pudding, ancho chile, guajillo chile, all spice, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, figs, cherries, currants, stone fruit peaches, apricots, sweet yams, pecan pie, anise, molasses, bananas, clove spice, marshmallows, Molé spices, coconut hints, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toffee, chai spice, tobacco hints, coffee cake, biscuit bread, nougat caramel, Mexican fudge cake and coconut.

Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with chocolate abuelita flavors, cinnamon, ginger spice, vanilla, caramel, chile hints and coffee hints. Slight alcohol in the taste but not detracting from the flavors. Dark full body, smooth, creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptionally decadent brew. Not too heat wise spicy, but spicy none the less. Semi Sweet with the chocolate but because it is an old ale and barleywine blend, the complex flavors are different than any other Mexican Chocolate or Molé beer. The fact is, the different level of spices really comes out more but at the same time, it is still balanced. Definitely find this one if you can, cheers!

Anime Corner:
May from Backstreet Billiards was chosen for this pairing to go with the colors, the flavors, the ingredients and the theme of the beer. Essentially, a Molé and Mexican hot chocolate beer. Since she is a favorite character of mines for many years, I tend to bring her back with beers that correlate with Mexican heritage as she complements these beers well. Especially for a Mélange series brew, Ahuevo!

Sources:
http://s27.postimg.org/ht9xex4cj/bsb_copy.jpg

Rueminator by The Bruery

December 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in oak barrels, Chip, Chip n' Dale, Dale, Doppelbock, Gadget Hackwrench, German Doppelbock, Monty Jack, Rescue Rangers, Rueminator, The Bruery, wheat, Zipper | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Rueminator by The Bruery is a 10% ABV German Doppelbock aged in oak barrels.

Label:
In the 1600s, Franciscan monks created the world’s first doppelbock. In 2008, Patrick Rue established The Bruery. The best of both worlds come together in this rich, malty lager,

It’s quite common for breweries to have “-ator” in the suffix of their doppelbock names. But ours has something theirs does not: A Rue in the prefix (and in the name of our brewery). Rueminator builds on the liquid bread legacy of the doppelbock style and gives it extra fortitude in the traditional fashion of The Bruery. This rich, hearty, smooth lager gains even more depth and character from extensive aging in charred new American oak barrels.

==Introduction==

Released back in September to Reserve and Hoarders Society, it was only recently that I was able to get this one due to me forgetting that I had purchased one of these back then. For a 10% malty German lager, you know it would still stand the test of time. Even for a couple of months. Not to mention, the majority of the Bruery beers age well. So this awesome one would be no different. Now they had made an awesome Weizen bock but not necessarily a doppelbock. These are some of my favorite German beer styles along with the Dunkelweizens, Eisbocks and triple bocks. Regardless, since they are starting to do more German styles, I wish I should have attended their Oktoberfest, maybe next year. Anyways, let’s see if this is a beer worth getting, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit prunes, plums, raisins, figs, bananas, clove spice, rye bread, honey, mild coconut, apples, dark candy sugar, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, crème brulee, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, brown sugar and trail mix hints.

Flavors:
Rich Dulce de leche caramel, toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, crème brulee, flan, piloncillo sugar cone, dark fruit prunes, plums, raisins, figs, bananas, clove spice, rye bread, oak, marshmallow smores, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, brown sugar, hazelnut, pecan pie, molasses, trail mix, candied yams, biscuit bread, dark cherries, blackberry preserves, malty wheat bread, stone fruit peaches, honey, mild coconut, apples, dark candy sugar, raisin bread pudding, maple syrup and mild coffee notes.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich caramels, dark fruits, earthy notes, oak, marshmallow smores, molasses, bread pudding and flan hints. No alcohol in the taste. Dark crimson medium body, smooth, chewy and velvety mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very exceptional doppelbock. I find it very interesting that the Bruery beers are always like “in your face” type of beers. This is awesome since some styles do get amped up to another level. Especially when oak barrel aging. What that process did for this beer is simply amazing. So much complex flavors for a basic German Dark Lager. An Imperial lager at that. With that being said, it was definitely awesome and as close to the deliciousness of some of the best doppelbocks I have ever had. I highly recommend this one.

Anime Corner:
Gadget Hackwrench and the Rescue Rangers were used in this pairing mainly for the label colors but I wanted a reason to use her and the team for a Bruery beer. Especially since I have not used her or the others in much of any beers. Also, using the suffix –nator that goes with doppelbocks, I decided to go with a pic that represents her as being similar to the Terminator. Since, well, you know, if she ever went mad and tried to take over the world with robots. I don’t know, I just thought it was creative. I think the use of the specific pairings might be a stretch, but they do look bad ass regardless.

Sources:
http://orig02.deviantart.net/ef66/f/2009/082/9/3/imperial_gadget_hackwrench_by_skimen.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/814d/f/2016/253/2/f/gadget_hackwrench_by_bbmbbf-dah6p53.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/pq8Bd.jpg
http://www.tikihumor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2014/12/modern-chip-n-dale.jpg

Derde Golf by The Bruery Terreux

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, anniversary ale, Belgian Quadrupel, blackberries, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Coffee Beans, Darkstalkers, Derde Golf, Hsien-ko, lei-lei, Lord Raptor, Midnight Bliss, Oak aged, Old Ale, Portola Coffee Lab, Quadrupel Tonnellerie, Sour Quadrupel, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Zabel | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Derde Golf by The Bruery Terreux is a 12.3% ABV Belgian Sour Quadrupel Oak aged with Blackberries and Bourbon Barrel aged Old Ale with Portola Coffee Lab’s coffee beans.

Label:
It’s time for the third wave – a beer that awakens the senses from first sniff to first sip. This sour, blended ale folds our sour, oak-aged Belgian style quadrupel with blackberries into our malt-forward, bourbon barrel-aged old ale, and finishes with a Flemish good morning kiss, for an awakening, robust and sweet & sour twist. It’s complimented and balanced by the gentle, roasty character imparted from freshly roasted coffee from our friend’s at Portola Coffee Lab – a blend that was specifically selected for this complex, sour coffee ale, and a concept that was nearly a year in the making.

==Introduction==

Released to Hoarders and Reserve society members. I did not think much about getting this one at first. Then I saw what it was made with. Essentially, they took their awesome Quadrupel Tonnellerie and Anniversary ale, combined it and added coffee. Ridiculousness! But I say that in an awesome epic way. Both base beers are already exceptional. Therefore, taking this to the next level is definitely what the Bruery does best. Now the question is, should one get this one? Well, that is where we come in to advise you, the reader, whether we think you should give this one a shot. Let’s do this, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit currants, dark cherries, plums, raisins, figs, raspberries, wine grapes, blackberries, concorde grapes, fruit cake, oak, bourbon, dark candi sugar, bananas, clove spice, anise, tobacco notes, molasses, dark candi sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, hazelnut nectar, mocha, Khalua liqueur, java and sweetened condensed milk

Flavors:
Bourbon, oak, wine grapes, pan dulce, blackberry cobbler, fruit cake, concorde grapes, blueberry muffins, dark fruit currants, dark cherries, plums, raisins, figs, dark candi sugar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Cadbury caramel and chocolate cream eggs, lemon peel, red wine, toasted coconut, marshmallows smores, bananas, clove spice, anise, tobacco notes, molasses, leather, raspberry Chambord liquer, blackberry and blueberry cheesecake, rock candy, capirotada raisin bread pudding, figgy pudding, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, mocha, Khalua liqueur, java, espresso, coffee cake, steamed milk, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, flan, chocolate cherry cordials and Tres Leches/Three Creams cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich dark fruits, of blackberries, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, vanilla, clove space, bananas, dark candi sugar, rock candi, blackberry yogurt, toffee, dark chocolate, oak, and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste, full dark amber body, effervescent, smooth and silky mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
This is damn insane! This is indeed the best Belgian Sour Quad ever! The Blackberries and Coffee just raise it to those OVERKILL levels. Not in a bad way but of the deep and supremely luscious bliss kind of way. Heck even the fact that the base beers are already above exceptional, this just takes it to that bucket lister level. Definitely find a way to get this one. A lot of awesome stuff in this bottle.

Anime Corner:
Hsien-Ko/Lei Lei and Zabel/Lord Raptor (Midnight Bliss) were used in this pairing to go somewhat with the label but mainly the colors of the dark fruits and flavors of the beer. I have not used Hsien-ko in a beer for the Bruery before so I definitely thought this was the perfect opportunity. Zabel was merely there as you can think of the 2 beer fusion in coffee as represented by Hsien-Ko coming to Zabel from behind.

Sources:
http://pbs.twimg.com/media/CsL6t_gXYAQAEGW.jpg
https://jr4rt.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/hsien_ko_small.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/3d435-lei_lei_by_genzoman.jpg
http://blog-imgs-27-origin.fc2.com/m/o/u/moudamepo11/24(s).png

9 Ladies Dancing by The Bruery

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

Rating: 5.5/6

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

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Share This: Molé by The Bruery

December 8, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged ancho chilies, cacao nibs, Chipotle Peppers, Cinnamon, Free Wheelchair Mission, Imperial Stout, LEND A HAND, mexican beer, Overwatch, Share This Molé, sharethisbeer, Sombra, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Share This: Molé by The Bruery is an 11.1% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Ancho Chilies, Chipotle peppers, Cinnamon, Vanilla Beans and Cacao Nibs

Label:
LEND A HAND
Share This beer and be part of bringing mobility to our friends in Mexico – the Source and inspiration of select ingredients in this beer. For every bottle we produce, Free Wheelchair Mission receives one dollar. #sharethisbeer

Share This is a series of beer that spotlights unique ingredients and important causes. This rich mole-inspired imperial stout collaboration with Chef Anne Conness supports the work of Free Wheelchair Mission in Mexico.

==Introduction==

Released to the public as the second beer for charity from the “Share This” series. This time they obtained inspiration from Mexican cuisine, the awesome dish of Molé. The last time the Bruery made an awesome Molé beer was when they made the Smoking Wood variant which was a tap only release. It was definitely awesome and one I would love to review one day if it is re-released. This series is definitely awesome as it does donate a dollar for every bottle sold to the cause of the Free Wheelchair Mission. Yes, it is not much money but this is a microbrewery after all. It’s good to see breweries who do more not just for communities but for causes that really help people. Let’s see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, raspberries, capirotada Mexican bread pudding, vanilla, flan, crème brulee, dulce de leche cajeta/caramel, Pan Dulce, chipotle, guajillo, ancho chiles, cinnamon, nutmeg, rich chocolate abuelita, Kahlua liquer notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, piloncillo sugar cone, grilled bananas, anise, coffee and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Super rich chocolate abuelita, Kahlua liquer notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, piloncillo sugar cone, grilled bananas, chipotle, guajillo, ancho chiles, cinnamon, nutmeg, dark fruit raisins, prunes, cherries, raspberries, capirotada Mexican bread pudding, vanilla, flan, crème brulee, dulce de leche cajeta/caramel, Pan Dulce, apple pie, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, Danish cream cookies, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, burnt candi sugar, waffle cone, molé spices, champurrado, molasses, anise, 3 leche/ 3 Milks cake, coffee cake, mocha, java, steamed milk and Mazapan.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich notes of chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, coffee, cinnamon, peppery hints, dark fruits, marshmallows, flan, earthy notes and champurrado. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, dark body, creamy, velvety, silky, syrupy, chewy and viscous mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional breaking brew. Easily, a new favorite Molé, or in this case, the best Molé beer I have ever had that was more about Molé, not Mexican chocolate, as that is another story best told in a previous review. For a Molé beer though, this is damn insane and delicious. Definitely a step above some of the other Molé beers I have tried in the past. The chocolate and spices are there but not overly spicy and sweetness is not overwhelming either. Everything just comes together very well and complex. Definitely a highly recommended brew.

Anime Corner:
Sombra from Overwatch was used in this series not necessarily for the label colors but for the use of a Mexican anime/video game character. Sombra, or Shadow is a hacker who uses her skills to manipulate the corrupted systems of power for the greater good. While her colors and ethnicity go well with the flavors of the brew (like dark fruits) and the culture of the cuisine, the “doing something for a good cause” is what I liked about this pairing as this beer is all for a good cause.

Sources:
http://img0.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Blizzard-фэндомы-Sombra-(Overwatch)-Overwatch-art-3415270.jpeg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/fa99b-sombra.jpg
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Sombra-(Overwatch)-Blizzard-фэндомы-Overwatch-art-3471483.jpeg

2016 Grey Monday by The Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bankai, Belgian Chocolates, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, bourbon vanilla, chocolate mousse, Chocolate Nirvana, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark chocolate, french vanilla ice cream, Grey Monday, Hazelnut Nectar, Imperial Stout, Kutchiki Rukia, Maple Syrup, molecular gastronomy, pecan pie, Rich Hazelnut, roasted hazelnuts, Rukia, The Bruery, world beers | 1 Comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Grey Monday by The Bruery is an 19.8% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Hazelnuts.

I had done a reviewed this one in the past so this year, I am leaving it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Each year it is more awesome and the ABV seems to climb higher and higher. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/2015/06/25/2015-grey-monday-by-the-bruery/

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bakuretsu Tenshi, Black Tuesday, Burst Angel, Imperial Stout, JO, Session beer, So Happens It's Tuesday, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery is a 14.7% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

I had done a review earlier this year and The Bruery released another on October 2016 so to check out the review I did click the link below. While this version is slightly stronger, they both are awesome!

https://animebeers.com/2016/02/27/2016-so-happens-its-tuesday-by-the-bruery/

2016 Black Tuesday by the Bruery

December 2, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 2016 Black Tuesday, best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dark fruits, delicious, dessert, Grey Monday, Imperial Stout, Kos-MOS, kosmos, rich flavors, The Bruery, White Chocolate, Wineification, world class beers, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Black Tuesday by the Bruery is an 20.3% ABV World Class Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels.

I have reviewed this one many times so this year, I am leaving it to a previous review to take care of the recommendation. Each year it is more awesome and the ABV seems to climb higher and higher. Cheers!

https://animebeers.com/2015/12/05/2015-black-tuesday-by-the-bruery/

Cordial BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

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

Rating: 7/7

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery

November 30, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, almond joy, best beers in the world, Bourbon Barrel Aged, bourbon barrels, coconut, Dulce de leche, English Barley Wine, English Barleywine, Knives Chau, macaroons, MASH, Mash & Coconut, Ramona Flowers, rocky road ice cream, Scott Pilgrim, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, The Bruery, Toasted Coconut, World class, World Class Barleywine, world class beers | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2016 Mash & Coconut by The Bruery is a 13.1 % ABV World Class English Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels with coconut.

Label:
Bear The Palm

This Rendition of our classic bourbon barrel-aged barleywine ale amplifies the coconut character natively derived from extensive bourbon-barrel-aging.

This is our classic bourbon barrel-aged barleywine ale, Mash, stretching to new levels. Mash & Coconut has coconut added – nearly 1 lb. Per gallon, which ratchets up the complex coconut character and complements the oaky and vanilla notes that are imparted to the beer as part of its extensive maturation in oak bourbon barrels.

==Introduction==

After 2 years, the Bruery has finally re-released the one of their most awesome beers, the Mash and Coconut. I remember this one distinctively since the first time they released it, it was not up to their standards. Essentially, they had issues with the beer that could only be served at their tap room and not be bottled. Fast forward to now, and they not only released a tap room of it, but also in bottle form. I bring this one back as I remember it being a supreme coconut joy. Now since it has been released to all societies, let’s take a look at it from a bottle perspective, cheers!

Aromas:
Lots of toasted coconut, vanilla, caramel dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, chocolate brownies, rocky road ice cream, marshmallows smores, butterscotch, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, plums, stone fruit peaches and cream, peach cobbler, rye toast with coconut burnt sugar, Mexican Alfajor Coconut pastry, madamia nuts, Macaroons, flan, brown sugar and bananas.

Flavors:
Supreme coconut cream and pecan pie nectar, hazelnut, Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, dark fruit prunes, currants, dark cherries, plums, fruit cake, marshmallows, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, smoked peat, toffee, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, stone fruit peaches and cream, peach cobbler, rye toast with coconut burnt sugar, Mexican Alfajor Coconut pastry, madamia nuts, Macaroons, flan, coconut custard, capirotada raisin bread pudding, maple, oatmeal raisins cookies, plantains, Danish cream, chocolate brownies, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, marshmallow smores and graham crackers.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Rich Almond joy chocolate, dark fruits, bourbon notes, toffee, dulce de leche caramel, flan, bananas, Mexican coconut candy, hazelnut nectar, vanilla and cheesecake. No alcohol despite the ABV. Dark brown full body, smooth creamy, chewy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bucket lister that finally was released in bottles. With the separation of Sour and regular brews, a much more controlled environment was what made this possible for the Bruery. Thankfully it was finally released and this time, Preservation Society would see this one coming. So if you signed up for Quarter 4 2016, you will get this one along with Black Tuesday and another brew. This is a must get and if you can get several, do cellar them. This is insane, I highly recommend this one!

Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers and Knives Chau from Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World were used in this pairing as the original since I wanted to compare them to the name MASH & COCONUT. Ramona always has a hammer ready to MASH up her opponents and Knives is a smooth ninja representing the coconut flavors and the overall smoothness of the beer. This is way too easy to drink. They are both hot but super damn deadly. Some of the colors of the label also pair with the artwork. Scott is there for the other complex flavors of the beer as well as the other characters from the series.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/1250828
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
http://data.whicdn.com/images/89284118/large.png

2016 Hoarders Cuvée by The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, anniversary ale, Beer Hybrid, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, cuvee, Hoarders Cuvée, hoarders society, Imperial Stout, Melange, Old Ale, Raspberries, The Bruery, vanilla beans, Yoko, Yoko Littner, Yoko Ritona | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

2016 Hoarders Cuvée by The Bruery is an 18.5% ABV American Strong Ale/Old Ale/Cuvée hybrid aged in bourbon barrels, raspberries, vanilla beans and cacao nibs.

Label:
An invitation to join The Bruery Hoarders Society is the ultimate nod in how far you’ve come in your craft beer journey. Each year as a member, you get access to some of the most elusive and exclusive beers (such as this) and one-of-a-kind experiences, like going toe-to-toe with your peers in blending sessions exclusive to Hoarders.

This Cuvée is the icing on the cake – literally – as it took top honors in the Hoarders Cuvée blending tournament to be produced by The Bruery in 2016. Featuring a nearly equal blend of our most storied bourbon barrel-aged beers – Black Tuesday and our anniversary ale – with additions of raspberries, vanilla beans and cacao nibs, this beer was designed by Hoarders Society member, Paul Moore, and his teammate, Luis Barriga, to embody the ultimate cupcake. It’s the first fruited beer of its kind out of The Bruery, and a fitting release for the first installment in the newly minted Hoarders Cuvée series.

==Introduction==
Exclusively released to Hoarders Society only, unless you can trade for another Hoarders member or there is a special someone that is a huge fan of the site to donate! They basically made a special edition Mélange X (by X I mean some kind of number given to Mélange beers that mix Black Tuesday, Anniversary Ales and other ales or ingredients). I’ll be honest, there would be no way I could get my hands on this unless I buy it in the special online sites or trade. This website has slowly been grabbing a small trend of followers of which I especially admire. They were able to donate this one to me seeing as I love lots of the Bruery beers. As a Reserve member I can only bring so much to the table to help those that look for these beers. So they decided to make some kind of raspberry cupcake beer. It is very interesting as my last home brewing experiments with raspberries lead to a crazy fruity beer about “DRAGONS”. Interesting stuff for sure but this is the first time they release some Hoarders exclusive beer. Seems very special to and one I am happy to have you guys to thank, my readers and fans to provide this one to me. Let’s have a look! Cheers!

Aromas:
Super Rich Raspberry chocolate, cake, oak, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, Banana Split Sundae, pecan pie, fruit cake, hazelnut nectar, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, raspberry cheesecake, flan, crème brulee, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, currants, plums, blueberries, red velvet cake, berries and cream, raspberry indulgence candies, Danish cream, dark chocolate, cherry chocolate cordials and Chambord raspberry liqueur.

Flavors:
Super rich berries and cream, Raspberry indulgence candies, red velvet cake, strawberry short cake, raspberry chocolate cup cake, dark fruit raisins, blackberries, currants, plums, blueberries, dragon fruit, passion fruit, raspberry yogurt, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, Baker’s chocolate, Belgian chocolate, rich Chambord raspberry liqueur, cake icing, raspberry cobbler, cherry cobbler, Danish cream cookies, dulce de leche caramel, marzipan, mazapan, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, banana split sundae, cherry cordials, flan, crème brulee, double chocolate raspberry cake, raspberry cheesecake, vanilla, marshmallows, oak, sweetened condensed milk, campfire smores, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, and almond joy ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes in rich raspberry chocolate cake goodness, flan, crème brulee, raspberry sweetened condensed milk, Danish cream cookies, dark fruit, vanilla, cheesecake, raspberry preserves, dark cherry yogurt, fruit cake, bourbon, oak and dulce de leche caramel. Despite the 18.5% ABV, this ends with subtle to no alcohol in the taste. Crazy right? Begins Deep Dark full body but as you sip more of it, it starts to look more like a crimson deep dark body. Smooth, velvety, creamy, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A bucket lister in its own damn right. Reminding me in some ways of my own creation, the Raging Passio-Lactus Raspear Dragons but basically missing the chocolate and vanilla and very important, the awesomeness of Black Tuesday and their Anniversary Old Ale. Essentially, my brew is still leagues away in complexity simply due to what I was going for. Nevertheless, the interesting combination of Raspberries, Chocolate and Vanilla are definitely something I plan to focus on. Essentially, this bucket lister gave me more ideas for another home brew. What can I say, when you home brew, you have a bit of knowledge which is power to make similar great beers. Even so, I still help local breweries to share info on them from the site. As far this raspberries chocovanille buttercup goes, I extremely recommend to those who definitely want to seek it. I have tried so many great beers and this is hugely, one of a kind!!!!

Anime Corner:
Yoko Littner from Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan was previously chosen when I did the review for Cacaonut. She was used in that special Bruery beer but sadly, the beer was short lived due to lactic infections in the beer. Since then I had not used her in another beer pairing. However, seeing as a beer that used raspberry and chocolate as well as vanilla in a Bruery beer, I had to bring her back. Especially since I had done an awesome review with her in my first Raspberry bourbon barrel-aged stout. Although that one did not have chocolate and vanilla and was more about the emphasis on tropical and exotic fruits. As I drank this though, some flavors of the beer did remind me of my home brew, so there was definitely a need to bring her back to the mix. Besides, for a special brew like this, I have to choose some of the best characters.

Aside from the colors of the ingredients like vanilla and raspberry which can be easily seen through her colors, the armored dark dragon knight armor she wears with her holding the fireball represents something important about the name “Hoarders”. Essentially, I think, which may not be true but, if you are a Hoarder (especially Hoarders Society) and feel really awesome about your status, you are represented by unlimited power as shown by Yoko. However, with great power comes great responsibility as Uncle Ben from Spiderman once said to Peter Parker. Essentially, enjoy that society has given you the ability to enjoy something that the few can only understand but do not forget where you came from. Absolute Power can corrupt Absolutely. Love your beer friends, share a beer or whatever you hoard. Let others know you can still be humble. Yoko despite her hardships still knew how to help others and was a selfless character, Hot anime girl appearances aside. Definitely check out Tengen Toppa Gurren Laggan.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/x6kW2EV.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/fdb44-digitalartbyyuewang23.jpg
http://move.loveisover.me/foolfuuka/boards/e/image/1437/49/1437496106755.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zm7UfYc9NsE/VicaGg344cI/AAAAAAAAAHE/Z-xggTktIfQ/w800-h800/maid_ritona_render_by_ichigo_mazapan-d510np7.png
http://i.imgur.com/d5lIIqb.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/650b/f/2012/323/3/a/yoko_littner_sexy_outfit_2_by_mactain-d5lh7wt.jpg

Humulus Rueuze by The Bruery Terreux

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged FF4, Final Fantasy 4, Gueuze, Huell Melon Hops, Humulus Rueuze, oak barrels, Rydia, Rydia of the Myst, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

Humulus Rueuze by The Bruery Terreux is a 5.7% ABV Gueuze brewed with Huell Melon Hops and aged in oak barrels.

Label:
FUNKY-HOPPY-TWIST

Commercial Description:
Humulus Rueuze is a variation on our take on the traditional Belgian-style lambic gueuze with one major exception: massive amounts of dry hops. To begin, we carefully select a number of oak barrels that have been aging our sour blonde ale for anywhere from several months to several years, and then blend the beers together for the ideal flavor. Once that is achieved, we pile heaps of Hallertau Blanc hops on top to achieve an aromatic blend like no other, inundating the senses with citrusy, tropical, funky and grassy goodness. This is one complex beer, and it’s best consumed fresh.

==Introduction==

Released to all societies, this one was one that I wasn’t going to bring to the site. It just so happened that I got it as part of the preservation series I subscribe to. So I figured, I give it the ol’ heave ho! And away we go treatment. Essentially, it is not on the site and I am sure people would want to hear about it. To be frank, as much as I love The Bruery sours, the regular Rueuze was super sour. Which I do find awesome but when it comes to trying to find the intricacies of some of the sours it is hard to find. Nevertheless, this one is dry hopped so this one is bound to be even better than the Rueuze I hope. Let’s find out, cheers!

Aromas:
Herbal, floral, piney and earthy hops, honey dew melon, strawberry hints, citrus, orange peel, grapefruit hints, vanilla, farmhouse hay, berries, guava, brettanomyces notes, biscuit bread, oak and yogurt.

Flavors:
Lemon, salt, lime, vanilla, biscuit bread, tejuino maize drink, herbal, floral, piney and earthy hops
strawberry yogurt, wine grapes, funky farmhouse hay, stone fruit apricots, cheese, crackers, oak, Concorde grapes, cranberries, tart berry skins, sour white grapes, brettanomyces notes, passion fruit, guava, orange peel, grapefruit peel, cantaloupe and honeydew melon.

Aftertaste:
Finishes super dry leaving hints of lemon, wet hay, funk, vanilla, bread, floral and earthy hops. No alcohol in the taste, pale golden light to hazy body. Crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious indeed! I was wrong in my take but I do agree the hops made a huge difference in the complexity of this one. It adds the complexity of special fruits which mix very well with this sour type of beer. Essentially, giving certain fruity and complex flavors that are not normally there as ingredients. If you have a friend that is in one of the societies or if you sign up for the Bruery Preservation society you can definitely get this one. It is worth a try but you can definitely get other similar sours.

Anime Corner:
Rydia of The Mist from Final Fantasy 4 was used in this pairing as I have not used her in a Bruery pairing before (as far as I can remember) This one was the perfect opportunity as she fits well with the label colors and the hop and fruit profiles. She is a summoner and sorceress so the funk of this beer is essentially the magic that comes from every sip.

Sources:
https://www.ponychan.net/gala/src/1450141432427.jpg
http://d-mob.com/wp-content/attachments/1/812/10.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Suk0cnL.jpg
http://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.roosterteeth.com/uploads/images/87c01965-7f4a-4134-a3fe-ea67a070d6cc/md/CaButler5179caf1020f0.jpg

2016 White Chocolate By The Bruery

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

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

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

2016 Preservation series The Grade A.K.A Squirrel! By The Bruery

October 14, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Baltic Porter, Blazblue, Blaze Blue, Fenugreek, Lager yeast, makoto nanaya, Maple Syrup, natural flavors, Preservation Series, SQUIRREL!, The Bruery, The Grade | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Preservation series The Grade A.K.A Squirrel! By The Bruery is a 7.6% ABV is a Baltic Porter brewed with maple syrup and Fenugreek with natural flavors.

Label:
“SQUIRREL!”

The Grade is in. It’s built on the backbone of a rich, cold-fermented baltic porter made popular in countries bordering the Baltic Sea. We then hammer it home with the bold, sweet flavors of maple syrup and a touch of fenugreek.

==Introduction==

Released to all societies (Preservation, Reserve and Hoarders), this Baltic Porter/Dark Lager was originally named Squirrel. Why thought? There does not seem to be anything relation to squirrels other than the maple syrup and maple trees. Then again, why was it called ‘The Grade’. I do not know that either. Well, regardless, here is the first Baltic Porter I try from the Bruery. The Baltic Porter being a Porter fermented using lager yeast instead of ale yeast makes for one complex beer. The Bruery already being complex as hell with their beers makes me wonder how crazy this would be. Especially the Fenugreek which I have not tried although it is said it tastes like maple as well. Let’s take a closer look at this one, cheers!

Aromas:
Coffee, maple syrup, roasted barley notes, dark fruits figs, currants, cherries, blackberries, raisins and plums, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, peanut butter, walnuts, almond joy, marshmallows, mocha, bananas, clove spice, toasted peanuts, caramel, vanilla, leather notes, anise, mint, Danish cream cookies, brown sugar, cinnamon and fruit cake.

Flavors:
Rich hazelnut, maple syrup, walnuts, pecan pie, praline ice cream, macadamia nuts, toasted coconut, toffee, butterscotch, almond milk, Nutter butter cookies, Bitter Peanut Butter cup, toasted peanuts, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, marshmallow, smores chocolate, fenugreek tea, black tea, mocha coffee, Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, coffee, tobacco, leather, molasses, anise, mint chocolate chip cookies, Danish cream cookies, flan, crème brulee, cookie dough ice cream, cinnamon, earthy hop notes, bananas, clove spice, fruit cake, dark fruit cherries, figs, currants, blackberries, raisins and plums.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with complex sweet nuts like peanut butter and hazelnut, maple, fruit cake, dark fruit, cinnamon, coffee, tea, dark chocolate and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste, dark full body, smooth, creamy, syrupy and chewy mouthfeel along with moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Freaking delicious and damn exceptional. This beer is like a liquid trail mix of all sorts of nuts, dark fruits, creamy goodness and chocolate. Of course, the complexity goes a long way especially for Baltic Porters and while they are rare styles of beer, this one made by the Bruery is nothing short of freaking awesome. There isn’t much I can say that is bad about this one unless you don’t like strong brews or sweeter tasting ones. I highly recommend picking this one up if you are a preservation member at least.

Anime Corner:
Makoto Nanaya from BlazBlue was used in this pairing mainly for the old name of the beer, Squirrel. I did not know why it was called Squirrel until I finally took a couple of sips. Since it is very nutty, using Makoto was perfect as she is a squirrel girl. I mainly based it on the flavors and the old name but the colors of the label don’t pair that well for the most part. Either way, I think they should of left it as Squirrel!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/et15FEh.jpg
http://danbooru.donmai.us/data/sample/__makoto_nanaya_blazblue_drawn_by_todd_l_milhouse__sample-a7d0e788c22a7ba70997f8dd255e4330.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/49MKiyu.jpg
http://i4.pixiv.net/img-original/img/2015/09/17/10/35/05/52568339_p0.png
http://tbib.org/images/2392/b9d44f3c0cd0fd6598075d785a9b692ae6bf6945.png

Mélange 15 by The Bruery

October 5, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, Barleywine, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Claire Farron, cuvee, FFXIII, Final Fantasy XIII, Imperial Stout, Lactose, Lightning, MASH, Mélange 15, Melange, pecan pie, The Bruery, vanilla beans, walnuts | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

Mélange 15 by The Bruery is is a 14.8% ABV American Strong Ale Cuvee blend of an Imperial Stout (Black Tuesday) Barleywine (Mash) and old ale (Anniversary Ale) brewed with lactose, vanilla beans, cacao nibs, walnuts and aged in Bourbon barrels.

Label:
Nuts & BBLS

We play with nuts and BBLs in this winning blend of barrel-aged beers. Designed to mimic the flavors of rocky road, this mélange took top place in our 2016 staff blending competition.

Our Mélange series is a playground for exploring flavors that cannot be achieved outside of the art of the blend or by any one beer. We had a particularly good time playing with nuts and BBLs in this winning blend of barrel-aged beers from our 2016 staff blending competition. Fueled by cheeseburgers and inspired by rocky road, we folded walnuts, cacao nibs from TCHO and vanilla into rich, bourbon barrel-aged barleywine and old ale to mimic the flavors of the rich, nutty dessert. Lactose was added to impart a marshmallow character and an extra creamy mouthfeel. We’re pretty nuts about it, and we think you will be too.

==Introduction==

Released to the public and all societies, this the first time since Mélange 3, that a Mélange series beer is released outside of the societies. What an awesome release at that. Knowing the Mélange series pretty well, they are some of the best beers the Bruery has ever released. With this one being liquid Rocky Road Ice Cream in a bottle, I can only say that this is going to be gold. How can I say that without trying it? Well, my track record for reviewing these Mélange beers has shown that they keep pushing the bar with every release and I can only push so far up the bucket list. Yes, indeed, even before I review this one, I can safely say, it is going to be a bucket lister. The best part, now the public can get their hands on as many bottles as they can. Let’s delve into this shall we? Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Chocolate Milk Shake, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker smores, toasted coconut, rich rocky road ice cream, rich walnuts, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, nutter butter cookies, rich nutella spread on toasted rye bread, prailine ice cream, dark fruit raisins, figs, dark cherries, currants, blackberries, figs, plums, mocha, coffee, Khalua liqueur, almond liquer, Chambord raspberry liqueur, bananas, clove spice, cookie dough ice cream, Tres Leches/3 Milks cream, sweetened condensed milk, Danish cream, flan, and crème brulee

Flavors:
Super rich rocky road ice cream, rich walnuts, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, nutter butter cookies, rich nutella spread on toasted rye bread, prailine ice cream, mocha, coffee, Khalua liqueur, almond liquer, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, Chocolate Milk Shake, German chocolate, Belgian chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker smores, toasted coconut, cotton candy, almond joy ice cream, salted caramel, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, dark fruit raisins, figs, dark cherries, currants, blackberries, figs, plums, Tres Leches/3 Milks cream, sweetened condensed milk, Danish cream, flan, crème brulee, molasses, anise, grilled bananas, clove spice, cookie dough ice cream, rocky road cheesecake and Chambord raspberry liqueur.

Aftertaste:
Lots of Rich chococaramellow nuts and Nutella remain, walnuts, dark chocolate, marshmallows, dark fruits, Danish cream, flan, bananas, clove spice, smores and sweetened condensed milk over rocky road ice cream. No alcohol in the taste despite the high ABV. Dark Crimson medium to full body, smooth, creamy, chewy, syrupy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Definitely without question, this is a major bucket lister. Since Mélange 12, I have not seen any other one top it and I honestly thing this one definitely tops that one even though the 12th was my favorite followed by the 3rd. This one just speak volumes and volumes. Like pieces of the best Black Tuesday variants like Chocolate Rain and Grey Monday are here. If you have a self-indulgence, guilty pleasure or a problem when it comes to something like Nutella or Rocky Road Ice Cream, this beer may be your devil’s water. But you know, you really have to take it all in sometimes and enjoy yourself once and awhile. Go get this bottle barrel aged and dessert beer lovers. Do it before it is gone!! You will not regret it!!!

Anime Corner:
Claire “Lightning” Farron from Final Fantasy XIII was used in this pairing to mainly go with the rich flavors of the beer although some of her colors do match with the colors of the beer. It has been a long time coming and I wanted to use Lightning in a Bruery beer but deciding which one was definitely the challenge. I wanted to choose a special occasion for a worthy beer pairing and now that I have seen what this is capable of, I set my eyes on her for this beer. A bad ass beer definitely deserves a bad ass character and art pairing.

Sources:
https://cdn.luscious.net/images/slywalker_96/457/lusciousnet_lusciousnet_1437152598845_1294766462.jpg
http://i99.beon.ru/s017.radikal.ru/i437/1507/fe/5fb4ecd4d9d3.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CJ3_R8dUsAARpT1.jpg:large

2016 Mash & Vanilla by The Bruery

October 5, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Alia, Barleywine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Capcom, MASH, Mash & Vanilla, Megaman X, The Bruery, vanilla, vanilla beans, VANILLOAK | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Mash & Vanilla by The Bruery is a 13.3% ABV Barleywine aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans.

Label:
VANILLOAK

We took our classic release, already oaky, sticky and sweet from extensive bourbon barrel-aging, and amplified that barrel character with the addition of vanilla.

This is our classic bourbon barrel-aged barleywine – kicked up a notch. We took Mash, already oaky, sticky and sweet, and amplified its barrel character with the addition of fresh vanilla beans. This vanilla prominence is complemented by the woody bourbon flavors and coconut notes that are imparted to the beer as part of its extensive maturation in oak bourbon barrels.

==Introduction==

Released to the public, this beer uses their base Barleywine in bourbon barrels which I have tried different variants of. So far, the best one of the variants was the Mash and Coconut. The other one, Mash and Coffee was awesome too. This time around, we have the vanilla version. Vanilla beers in general are awesome! In fact, when making strong vanilla beers, they typically have flavors of all sorts of sweets like sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee or flan. Essentially, when I think of the Bruery making beers with vanilla, like the White Chocolate, you know it’s gonna be awesome. Let’s see how this is.

Aromas:
Dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, marshmallows smores, bourbon, oak, fruit cake, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, Jericalla Mexican custard, banana cream pie, grilled bananas, clove spice, toffee, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, plantains, almond joy notes, oatmeal cookies, stone fruit plums, peach hints, brownies and cookie dough ice cream.

Flavors:
Rich Vanilla, Flan, sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, Jericalla Mexican custard, banana cream pie, grilled bananas, clove spice, toffee, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, marshmallows smores, bourbon, oak, fruit cake, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream, macadamia nuts, hazelnut nectar, maple notes, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, plantains, almond joy notes, oatmeal cookies, stone fruit plums, peach hints, brownies, cookie dough ice cream, Danish cream, cheese cake, chocolate cherry cordials and chocoflan.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with smooth vanilla, Cheesecake hints, bourbon, toffee, caramel, dark fruit, oak, flan, Jericalla custard and crème brulee. No alcohol in the taste, medium to full deep brown crimson body, syrupy, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Damn exceptional! While I agree that I lean more towards the Mash & Coconut, this is definitely at the league or above the Mash & Coffee. So much dark fruit and flan flavors it ridiculous. This is the kind of beer that, especially since it was released to the public, you want to get several bottles of. Some to enjoy whenever and some to just cellar to see how it will do in 5, 10 or even 15 years from now. A high recommendation on this one.

Anime Corner:
Alia and Megaman X by Capcom was used in this pairing because I wanted to use her and X in a Bruery pairing and I think the colors of them fit well with beer’s label, ingredients and flavors. X would be like the original Mash and Alia by his side is the vanilla. I definitely like to go all out with the different possible pictures to pair well with the characters I choose.

Sources:
http://keichan411.deviantart.com/art/Aya-Commission-290959370
http://orig01.deviantart.net/0996/f/2007/282/b/f/bfa4cbe2d9101c4c.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/d4/a3/c3/d4a3c3c667c665333f92bd364be6a530.jpg
http://img10.deviantart.net/a37a/i/2008/256/7/7/maverick_hunter_alia_by_louisblack78.jpg

2016 Chocolate Rain by the Bruery

September 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged best beers in the world, Black Tuesday, Bleach, Bourbon Barrel Aged, brown sugar, chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Marble Cheesecake, Chocolate Rain, creme brulee, dessert, Dulce de leche, Tcho cocoa nibs, The Bruery, vanilla beans, Yoruichi Shihouin | Leave a comment

2016 Chocolate Rain – Essentially the Bruery’s Black Tuesday 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/2015/03/23/2015-chocolate-rain-by-the-bruery/

14425281_10103584086264360_3762834832105378089_o

Mélange 14 by the Bruery

September 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, Black Tuesday, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cuvee, Imperial Stout, MASH, Mélange 14, Share This Coffee, T-elos, The Bruery, Xenosaga | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Mélange 14 by the Bruery is a 13.4% ABV American Strong Ale/Cuvee composing 85% ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with 15% Imperial Stout.

Label:
ONE FOUR ALL

This fusion puts the spotlight on the art of the blend and bourbon barrel-aged beer, with rich complex notes and signature kiss of oak.

Our Mélange series is a chance to roll out the barrels, roll up our sleeves and explore flavors that cannot be achieved outside of the art of the blend or by any one beer. French for “blend”, this mélange fuses the mature character of some of our most vintage barrels of barleywine and old ale with the dark depth of our imperial stouts, including both Tuesday-themed releases and Share This.

==Introduction==

Mélange 14 was not only released to the different societies at the Bruery but also the public. With the release of Share This: Coffee, they created a variant that was blended with that beer, Black Tuesday as well as other beer which I believe are the Mash and their Anniversary series. The Mélange series has always been a personal favorite of mine since Mélange 3 and Mélange 12. Those beers have been a category of their own. While I did enjoy Share This: Coffee, I can only imagine into what depths this one will go. Let’s dig this rabbit hole, Cheers!

Aromas:
Roasted coffee, Mocha, fancy coffee, espresso, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, prunes, plums, dark cherries, currants, rocky road ice cream, Belgian chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, almond joy chocolate, oak bourbon, hazelnut, walnuts, Cadburry cream eggs, rock candy, fruit cake, licorice, mint chocolate chip, cocada Mexican coconut candy, wine grapes, waffle cone, port wine, rum hints, walnut cake, coffee cake, tres leche/ three milk cream cake, double chocolate fudge cake, brown sugar and dulce de leche caramel.

Flavors:
Super duper mocha, Jamoca ice cream, rocky road ice cream, Belgian chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, almond joy chocolate, oak bourbon, hazelnut, walnuts, Cadburry cream eggs, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, prunes, plums, dark cherries, currants, cocada Mexican coconut candy, wine grapes, waffle cone, port wine, rum hints, walnut cake, coffee cake, tres leche/ three milk cream cake, double chocolate fudge cake, fancy coffee, marshmallows, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, leather, tobacco, molasses, dark candy sugar, burnt sugar, rock candy, fruit cake, licorice and mint chocolate chip.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich caramel, vanilla, steamed milk, mocha, dark fruit, bourbon, marshmallows, Cadbury cream eggs and coconut candy. No alcohol in the taste, Dark yet Crimson Full body, sipping drinkability and Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel.

Overall:
Definitely, let it warm up to unleash its true potential. An exceptional beer that I would take over Share This: Coffee although, Share This: Coffee has its own merits. Both beers are available to the public but you can’t really compare both as they are entirely different beer. This one is so damn coffee and complex flavor rich that I definitely highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
T-elos from Xenosaga was used in this pairing as I wanted to connect Black Tuesday, which is represented by KOS-MOS in another pairing, to T-elos who is another version of KOS-MOS, essentially, her evil sister. The addition of Share This: Coffee complements T-elos in her dark appearance because she also looks like Muramasa who I used in Share This: Coffee, however, T-elos actually more powerful. Thus, representing the complexity and ABV of this beer. The colors of the label also help the pairing work with her too.

Sources:
http://blog-imgs-47.fc2.com/s/e/i/seiroganmania/473fecc5.jpg
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/xenosaga-t-elos-hijiri-Anime-Pussy-2861824.jpeg
http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BpPT-SdCYAANbga.jpg

2016 Chronology:12 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

September 17, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chronology:12, Darkstalkers, felicia, Scotch Ale, The Bruery, Vampire Hunter, Vampire Savior, Wee Heavy | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

Overall:
An exceptionally awesome brew. As with many of these Bruery beers, age does wonders. The aging of the wee heavy for another 12 months has given this one a more dark fruit forward flavor along with the vanilla, banana and coconut hints. I definitely want to see more of this one as it develops more in the future and would recommend this one highly to those that love strong Wee Heavys

Anime Corner:
Felicia from Darkstalker/Vampire Saviour was used in this pairing for the reasons that I have not used her in any Bruery beer thus far and is one that is perfect with the colors of the label for the beer. Also the racing part is an analogy for how time speeds by and before you know it, BAM. That and Cats have 9 lives so would time even matter. I figured it was an interesting concept as to why use her in this pairing.

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

2016 Dodie by The Bruery

September 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, American Strong Ale, bourbon, cherries, Disney, Dodie, Grape must, Jessica Rabbit, orange zest, Spices, The Bruery, Who Framed Roger Rabbit | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Dodie by The Bruery is an 11.7% ABV American Strong Ale aged in bourbon barrels with grape must, cherries, orange zest and spices.

Label:
HOTSY TOTSY

Dodie is inspired by a classic New York concoction and shares a nickname with Grandma Rue, who was keen on the ritzy drink.

It’s time to dip the ill with Dodie. With no giggle juice on its rap sheet, it’s a dandy recreation of the profile of a classic Manhattan cocktail – from the grain (rye, wheat and barley), bourbon barrel -aged character, and blend of 20+ spices and grape must for bitters-eque and vermouth-like notes. Fancy a garnish? Cherries and orange zest come out as your kisser hits the glass.
==Introduction==

Released to the Bruery Reserve Society. I didn’t think too much about this beer at first since I had no idea what it is about and yet the Bruery always surprises with their full on experimentations. Once I saw what it was I was definitely intrigued. A beer based on a mixed drink. Reminded me of the L’deracola (Cola flavored beer) or the El Roble (Margarita based beer). They always come up with great beers and definitely are an inspiration to homebrewing. It is because of their willingness to experiment that I have taken it upon myself to make my own experimentations. Let’s have a look at this one though and see what it has to offer, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, capirotada bread pudding, brown sugar, wine grapes, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, orange zest, coriander, bananas, clove spice, coconut, chocolate orange creamsicle, cherry cordials, cherry cobbler, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, English toffee, Danish Cream, brown sugar, marshmallows, smores chocolate, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, cinnamon, fruit cake, allspice, nutmeg, chai tea and coffee cake.

Flavors:
Bananas, clove spice, coconut, Rich dark cherries, orange zest, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, wine grapes, dark fruit raisins, prunes, plums, figs, dates, coriander, ginger bread, cinnamon, fruit cake, allspice, nutmeg, chai tea, green tea ice cream, dark chocolate, marshmallows, smores chocolate, almond joy chocolate, rocky road ice cream, chocolate orange creamsicle, cherry cordials, cherry cobbler, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, English toffee, Danish Cream, Dr. pepper notes, cherry cola, mocha, molasses, anise, mint, licorice, tangerines, coffee cake, capirotada bread pudding, and lots of brown sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich flavors of dark fruits, cherries, oranges, pecan pie, oak, marshmallow, bananas clove spice, vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, Blood Crimson clear body, smooth, creamy and velvety body along with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Exceptionally awesome. I have had different mix drinks in the past and while I still have yet to try a Manhattan, this is pretty damn delicious. Almost as if it was what they were going for. Either way, it was enough for me to try to seek this one again. Spicy rich, fruity, citrucy and nutty, this one a highly recommended brew from me.

Anime Corner:
Jessica Rabbit from Disney’s Who Framed Roger Rabbit was chosen for this beer for many aspects such as beer color, label and theme. Essentially, this beer was made to mimic the Manhattan cocktail drink. As such, Jessica wears a cocktail dress and the movie, while it took place in Los Angeles, the theme seems very similar to New York in the 1920’s. While her character comes off as seductive like the flavors of the beer, the strength of the beer mimics her sense of justice to help Roger out in the movie. A childhood classic, now tribute with a brew.

Sources:
http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/980/555/aa7.jpg
http://yayahan.com/images/made/uploads/images/jessica_600_866_s.jpg
http://cs323416.vk.me/v323416272/62b8/kKMVMto_-YA.jpg

Frucht: Yumberry by The Bruery Terreux

September 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Berliner Weisse, Berlinerweisse, Frucht, Megaman X Command Mission, Nana, Oak Foudres, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Yumberries, Yumberry | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.75/5

Frucht: Yumberry by The Bruery Terreux is 4.7% ABV Berliner Weisse aged in an oak foeder with Yumberries

Label:
Fruity – Funky – Racy

Description:
We’re totally Frucht around here. In fact, we may just be filled to the brim, with excitement, that is. Our threshold is 250 BBLs, to be more precise. That’s the total capacity of each oak foeder at Bruery Terreux. One is dedicated exclusively to Frucht, our series of fruited Berliner Weisse-style beers. Known for a tart flavor profile and traditionally low ABV, our German-style wheat beer gains even more funky notes and natural earthy-woodiness from its fermentation in the large oak foeder vessel.

Each installment in the series will feature a new fruit, or Frucht, if we’re Sprechen sie Deutsch. This installment has yumberries added, which is our first time flirting with this funky fruit. Prost!

==Introduction==

Obtained this one via the Reserve Society. This one is part of a series of fruit based sours. While I am somewhat picky about which sours I bring to the site, I did find this one fascinating as it has yumberries. Yumberries go by many names like Chinese Strawberries or Japanese Bayberries for example as these are a set of exotic fruits. While personally I have not tried these, just by seeing them makes me want to get some. A unique choice for a sour for sure and one that we will have to see if it is worth trying. Let’s take a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Strawberries, citrus honey blossom, watermelon, honey, kiwi notes, funky oak, vanilla, sour apples, peppercorn notes, hibiscus, pomegranates, Cranberries, blueberries, tart blackberries, Yumberries, raspberries, wine grapes, oranges and dragon fruit.

Flavors:
Pomegranates, Cranberries, blueberries, tart blackberries, Yumberries, Raspberries, Lychee, lemon peel, strawberries, citrus, wine grapes, dragon fruit, grapefruit peels, citrus peel, mango peel, farmhouse hay, banana hints, peppercorn, hibiscus, lavender, tart guava, stone fruit apricots, wheat bread, sourdough bread hints, citrus honey blossom, watermelon, honey, kiwi notes, funky oak, vanilla, sour apples, papaya, kumquats, tomato hints, and coriander hints.

Aftertaste:
Finish super dry with notes of dark and stone fruits, tart berries, flowers, oak, vanilla hints and lemon peel. No alcohol in the taste, clear rosey golden light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good tart sour. Yumberries are something that you don’t see in beer and for the Bruery to make something awesome like this goes without words. A very unique sour for sure and with special exotic fruits. They once made a Durian beer but I am not sure how that would fare. However, it is safe that this one is a must try and definitely recommended for the sour lovers.

Anime Corner:
Nana from Megaman X Command Mission was choses in this pairing as a I wanted to pair with the colors of the beer and beer label. Rose sweet and sour. While she is not a playable character in the series and mainly stands by at HQ while the other teams are on missions, she sits there like the brew that sat for months in Oak and Yumberries to become something awesome.

Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/bf/fb/7d/bffb7d63a4db957a777a13c0be78ae52.jpg
https://img.fireden.net/vg/image/1443/32/1443324421889.jpg
http://s1260.photobucket.com/user/RockMiyabi/media/2014%20Valentine%20Contest%20-%20Category%201/Cat1-nana_by_hiyashix2-d75au30.png.html

Chronology:24 by The Bruery

September 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Battle Vixens, bourbon barrels, chronolo:24, English Old Ale, ikki Tousen, shiryuu Chou-un, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.5/7

Chronology:24 by The Bruery is a 17% ABV English Old Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels for 24 months.

Label:
TICK TOCK
24 months Oak Aged Ale
This fourth and final installment in our chronologically-aged series of English-style old ale. We’ve released this beer at six month intervals over the last 24 months. Its time is now at an end.

Our Chronology series is an experiment with time. A single beer will be aged in bourbon barrels and be released 6, 12, 18 and 24 month periods. Delicious while fresh, but existing to taste side by side upon each subsequent released as time moves forward.

==Introduction==

Just when I thought the end of the original Chronology series (Old Ale) was complete, the Bruery released the last installment to the Reserve Society to 2016 and 2015 members. This beer has been aging for 2 years and typically with big brews, develops characters so complex, it is like you a drinking a blend of fancy desserts. Craft beer, the adult version of ice cream! Let’s see where this goes, cheers!

Aromas:
Cadbury cream eggs, vanilla, Dark fruit cherries, raspberries, prunes, plums, figs, currants, stone fruit peach cobbler, Danish cream, honey, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut, Coconut macaroons, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate mousse, Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake, Chocolate Turtles, Walnut, hazelnut and pecan pie, piloncillo sugar cone, flan, dulce de leche caramel, oak, bourbon, Jericalla/Mexican custard, sangria notes, bananas, plantains, clove spice, English toffee, crème brulee and sweetened condensed milk.

Flavors:
Cadbury cream eggs, Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake, Chocolate Turtles, Walnut, hazelnut and pecan pie, piloncillo sugar cone, flan, dulce de leche caramel, oak, bourbon, Jericalla/Mexican custard, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, prunes, plums, figs, currants, stone fruit peach cobbler, Danish cream, honey, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut, Coconut macaroons, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, chocolate mousse, capirotada bread pudding, sherry, raspberry chambord, peanut butter, Belgian waffles, dark candi sugar, English toffee, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, sangria notes, bananas, plantains, clove spice and port wine.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with Cadbury cream eggs, dark fruit, stone fruit, rich pecan pie, bananas, stone fruit, bourbon, piloncillo sugar cone, caramel chocolate cheesecake, coconut, oak, earthy notes, marshmallows and rocky road ice cream. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV as it has developed like a fine wine. Dark crimson full body, creamy, smooth, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
Above Exceptional and close to a bucket lister. Age has really done wonders far more than the 18 month one. The Cadburry chocolate cream egg, pecan pie and bananas are way stronger in this one and even more mind blown. This one would definitely be good to age for many more years to see what one day it would be like. Highly recommended for those that love the strong beers!

Anime Corner:
Chou’un Shiryuu from Ikki Tousen/Battle Vixens was chosen in this pairing as the final character to go with the theme of the beer. For the longest time I have been using characters that associate with time itself but also with the colors of the label. This time I mainly went for the colors but the bad assery that this character is as she is a powerful character in the series.

Sources:
http://www.dogame.com.cn/bbs/attachments/day_130116/130116141561b33ff25fd5c999.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Chou’un.Shiryuu.full.1856276.jpg
http://pm1.narvii.com/5920/a51cfe446476167b9c3e7872e499bc2bd3cb187a_hq.jpg

Wee Heavy Coconuts by The Bruery

September 13, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Cinnamon, coconut, Ramona Flowers, Scotch Ale, Scott Pilgrim, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, The Bruery, Wee Heavy, Wee Heavy Coconuts | Leave a comment

Rating: 7/7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim VS. The World was used in this pairing to go with the colors of the original Chronology 12 Wee Heavy but also since I used her in a coconut Bruery beer with Knives Chau. This time, I wanted her to take center stage has Scott not only has a heavy relationship with her which represents the sweet and ABV high aspect of the beer but the coconuts and complexity are Ramona’s traits of being a complex and emotionally heavy character.

Sources:
http://data.whicdn.com/images/102897436/large.jpg
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ab26e-ramona_flowers___scott_pilgrim_vol__5_by_montanaferrin-d66lh98.png
http://t06.deviantart.net/2ky_i7DV-eB9_ycqzMowhiKkDhk=/fit-in/700×350/filters:fixed_height(100,100):origin()/pre01/bdcc/th/pre/i/2012/005/9/c/ramona_flowers_by_laurelwind-d4leakd.png
http://pre02.deviantart.net/6c7e/th/pre/i/2009/363/2/e/scott_pilgrim_xxxmas_by_maddoxfanx.png

2016 Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux

August 1, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, cherries, cherry vanilla, Claymore, dark chocolate, Fate Night, Fate Stay Night, Fate Zero, Madrugada Obscura, oak barrels, Saber Alter/Dark, sour ale, Stout, Tart of Darkness, Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, vanilla, vanilla beans, vanilla ice cream | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

2016 Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux is a 7.% ABV American Wild Stout aged in Oak Barrels with Cherries and Vanilla Beans.

New Label:
Roasty – Midnight – Delight

Old Label:
SAUERSTAUT

With a roasty aroma and a tart finish, this sour black ale is a contortion of style and flavor, creating an unexpected delight.

Tart of Darkness with Cherries & Vanilla is best enjoyed fresh for bold spice and fruit character, but my pleasantly if cellared properly.
___

Released to the Preservation and Reserve Societies once again and possibly the a public release, this is the second time I try this beer. I was not going to do a review of this one since I had already done one in the past but as soon as I tried it and the new label came about, I had to give it a shot. This beer is a variant to the publicly sold Tart of Darkness. I will be honest, while the tart of darkness is a very good sour, it does not compare to my favorite sour stout Madrugada Obscura by Jolly Pumpkin. The cherries and vanilla from the last time I reviewed this beer made a huge difference. Draw your puckeringly sour sword and get ready to take action!

Aromas:
Dark cherry yogurt, Vanilla ice cream, caramel,Lavender, cotton candy, strawberry cheesecake, lemon peel, citrus, dark chocolate hints, blueberry skins, earthy notes, Cherry vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, molasses, anise, licorice, lemon peel, sour funky notes, citrus, port wine hints, blue berry muffin and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Toasted coconut, coffee, mocha, rich dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, vanilla cream, caramel, tart wine grapes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, sour cherry cordials, floral lavender, dark cherry yogurt, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, blueberry muffin, lemon peel, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, grape skins, port wine hints, oak, earthy notes and musty sour funky notes.

Aftertaste:
Tart wine grapes, oak, dark cherry yogurt hints, vanilla, coconut hints, and earthy notes finishing all fast and dry. No alcohol in the taste, murky amber brown full body with no head retention, soft, smooth and slightly creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Awesome sauce this year. I don’t know if I liked this one more or the last time I tried this one more. There is so much more chocolate coconut in this one along with vanilla and cherry sour stout goodness that I think it actually is beating the Madrugada Obscura. The Bruery definitely out did themselves this time and I would highly recommend this one if you love sours!

Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber from Fate/Stay Night/Hollow Ataraxia was used in this pairing since I used Jean from Claymore. Basically both represent the “Dark Knight” In the Tart of Darkness. The return of this brew show cases Saber as she tries to battle her inner darkness but realizes that without embracing both the light and evil, she is nothing. You can also say Saber is Vanilla and Dark Saber is the Cherries. The aspect of the warrior of darkness and the fact that I have used Saber in many Dark chocolate and cherry flavored beers just pushes my conviction that much further. The Dark Arts have to do with blasphemy against the church but the strange part, as holy as some organizations are, some hold deep dark secrets that the public never knows about. Tart of Darkness with Cherries and Vanilla brings that aspect of sour evil but yet sweet and forgiving aspects that are pretty damn Holy if you ask me. Think of it as the sweetness delivering the darkness of the beer from evil Either way, great beer and great pairing I think.

Sources:
http://tsundora.com/image/2014/10/fate_stay_night_673.jpg
http://pm1.narvii.com/5832/37ca0cfb16b4e985b40f227f7ae4a7b2aafa50da_hq.jpg

2016 Preservation series Quadrupel Tonnellerie by The Bruery Terreux

August 1, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Quadrupple Ale, blackberries, Blackberry Sour, Oak aged, Preservation Series, Preservation Society, Quadrupel Tonnellerie, Sour Quadrupel, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.45/6

2016 Preservation series Quadrupel Tonnellerie by The Bruery Terreux is a 10.2% ABV Belgian Sour Quadrupel Oak aged with Blackberries.

Label:
Caramelized – Toasty – Fruity

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Our Tonnellerie series is the perfect showcase of our “wildly traditional bière”. French for “cooperage”, each beer in the series shares one core trait: they were all fermented in oak. Beyond that, the recipes and styles are as unique as the cues they take from nature. Quadrupel Tonnellerie, a barrel-fermented Belgian-style quadrupel with blackberries, is no exception. A style known for being at the more malty, complex and rich end of the Belgian strong ale spectrum, this quad revels in layers of sweet caramel, dark fruit and figgy flavors, and complimentary undercurrents of oak. The natural esters from the Belgian yeast compliment the rustic, earthy qualities derived from the barrels and piquant flavors from the fruit for a dynamic flavor profile and mouthfeel that will evolve over time.

==Introduction==

Released to All societies and the public, if I am not mistaken. From what I can tell, this technically would be the first time the Bruery attempts a sour Belgian Quadrupel. The sour Belgian Quadrupel is pretty damn rare. The first time I tried one was at Phantom Carriage in Carson California and the second, (although Brettanomyces on a Quadrupel is more of a funky brew) being the one I got from Texas from my friend Aaron Mendiola at BeerMetalDude.comwould be the Save The World Apocalypse. All delicious for sure but this one is made with Blackberries. I had the Raspberry Quad from Mikkeller recently as well but that one was not barrel-fermented so I am sure the barrel definitely plays a huge roll in the souring process. Let’s have a look at this one. Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Dark fruits of blackberries, raisins, plums, currants, cherries, raspberry, figs, clove spice, bananas, tart Concorde grape skins, wine grapes, port wine, oak vanilla, caramel, blackberry yogurt, blackberry cobbler, fruit cake, earthy funk, caramel, dark candi sugar, leather and tobacco hints.

Flavors:
Wine grapes, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, rich tart blackberries, currants, vinous notes, dark candi sugar, dark chocolate, pecan pie, hazelnut hints, tart blackberry cheese cake, blackberry yogurt, sweetended condensed milk, port wine, raspberry Chambord hints, leather, molasses, tobacco notes, anise hints, clove spice, bananas, coffee notes, funky notes, lemon peel, red wine, earthy notes, cinnamon, blackberry cobbler, fruit cake, Concorde grape skins and blackberry muffins.

Aftertaste:
Finishes full of dark fruit with lots of tart blackberry notes, encompassing the vanilla, caramel, clove spice, banana, dark chocolate, blackberry yogurt, oak and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, full dark amber body, effervescent, smooth and silky mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A definitely exceptional Quadrupel. While it is more of a sour than a quadrupel, the exemplification of tarts with the balance of sweet complexity from the Quad seems to balance out very nicely. You get a variety of dark fruits mostly tart than super sour and you dig around until you find the sweet hidden quadrupel inside. While I do not often get a chance to try sour quads, I have to say that this sour quadrupel is actually my favorite sour quadrupel. Definitely give this one a shot!

Anime Corner:
Ayeka Misaki Jurai from Tenchi Muyo was used in this pairing since I wanted to bring her into a review for the longest time. Ayeka being a character from the Tenchi series from the 90s and one that was one of my favorites along with Washu and Ryoko. While she is delicate and sweet in her demeanor as a princes, when she is mad as hell she can become extremely dangerous. This pairs well with her attitude of sweet and sour at times but he strength is hidden like the ABV of this beer. That and the fact that she is always wearing the kimono is as close to a monks attire so I figured this even best exemplifies the pairing.

Sources:
http://shuu-washuu.deviantart.com/art/Princess-Ayeka-571428833
http://media.animegalleries.net/albums/Tenchi%20Muyo/Ayeka/tm_ayeka014.jpg
http://strippin.deviantart.com/art/Ayeka-wallpapper-85801835

Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

June 25, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 8th Anniversary, aged in Bourbon Barrels, anniversary ale, anniversary gifts, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Metroid, Nintendo, Old Ale, Poterie, Samus Aran, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 16.8% ABV Old Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
This sturdy beer marks our eighth year, and we are grateful for the outpouring of community. Together may our supporters, our brewery and this beer grow in complexity and refinement over the years.

Our eighth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain then blended using the solera method for more complexity as the years go by. Poterie (Pottery) will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.

==Introduction==

Poterie or “Pottery” in French, in the traditional sense of the wedding anniversary gifts, refers to the 9th year in which Pottery, Copper or Leather Goods are given. I noticed that this year, they decided to skip Bronze/Salt which was the 8th entry as it may have been too close to Copper or Salt may not have been a good name, who knows. The beer was released in May 2016 and will be available to the public and many places where the Bruery beers are sold. Every year’s addition of the first ale to the new batch gives it another great layer of complexity as the original ale that is now 8 years old and the new young batch all together using the Solera method, as explained in the description, is that much more extraordinary. Every year since Fruet, their 4th Anniversary when I first tried their beers, I have anticipated each release anxiously. It is with great pleasure that I show you, the newest batch and the newest review of the Bruery’s Anniversary beer. Cheers!!

Aromas:
Almond joy, toasted coconut, flan, fruit cake, Cadbury Cream Eggs, Creme brulee, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, butterscotch, nutmeg, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, Danish cream cookies, bananas, clove spice, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, burnt sugar, Dark Belgian candi sugars, burnt cane sugar, butterscotch, waffle cone, dark fruit, raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, anise, chocolate truffles and chocolate mousse.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel and Milk Chocolate Cadbury Cream Egg fusions, Creme brulee, flan, vanilla, toasted coconut, marshmallows, chocolate truffles, bourbon, brown sugar, rocky road ice cream, Grilled Bananas, Tres Leches/Three Creams cake, sweetened condensed milk, toffee, butterscotch, nutmeg, clove spice, hazelnut nectar, Danish cream cookies, plantains, rye bread, chocolate cherry cordials, smores chocolate, fruit cake, mocha hints, Belgian Candi sugars, dark fruit raisins, plums, cherries, raspberries, chocolate mousse, waffle cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding, maple syrup, stone fruit peaches and cream, mango, and wild flower honey.

Aftertaste:
Rich flavorful finish of fruit cake, dark fruits, Cadbury cream eggs, dark cherries, bourbon, marshmallows, flan, vanilla, milk chocolate, raisin bread pudding, flan and cola hints. Some alcohol in the aftertaste but not detracting from the rich flavors. Dark crimson brown medium to full body, silky, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Supreme of supremes as well. It seems in comparison to the Scotch barrel aged is that the Scotch one is better as there are subtle Scotch notes that would distinguish it. I feel this year beats last year as it makes more for a fruit cake and flan forward flavors along with the cadburry cream eggs and the dark fruit cherries. So much going on at different temperatures especially as this evolves. If you have yet to get any of the Bruery’s anniversary beers and you love heavy brews, you must do yourself a favor and get one. Cheers to the Bruery, us the fans and many more years of beers!

Anime Corner:
As used in the Scotch Barrel Aged version of Poterie, Samus Aran from Nintendo’s Metroid series was used in this review as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label. The blues and oranges seem to stand out very well. Also, since I have done a trend on these using characters in body suits, I figured it was perfect. The Poterie aspect in the name works well too as in one of the artworks, her armor is like the color of pottery so her being inside the suit is like the beer being inside a ceramic vase. Definitely creative that is for sure. The complexity and flavors just mimic her character as well as she is both strong and her story is very deep. Now because this is the original base beer, I brought Ridley into the pairing as he stands being her nemesis but also an epic fight with Ridley show cases Samus strength and will.

Sources:
http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/001/090/064/a4a.png
http://www.dailynintendo.nl/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/47139_metroid.jpg
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/futabama/imgs/7/8/78926d88.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3f/08/47/3f08473584310cb6797672285260f232.jpg

2016 Blue BBLS by The Bruery Terreux

June 25, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Chocolate, Black Tuesday, Blue Balls, Blue BBLS, Blue berry, Blueberries, bourbon barrels, Chocolate Blueberries, dark chocolate, Imperial Stout, Ranma, Ranma 1/2, Shampoo, Sour Stout, Tart of Darkness, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, wine grapes, World class, world class beers, Xian pu | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 Blue BBLS by The Bruery Terreux is a 16.3% ABV World Class Imperial Sour Stout blend (30% Tart of Darkness Sour Stout and 70% Black Tuesday Imperial Stout) aged in Bourbon Barrels with Blueberries.

Label:
Berries – Stoked – Oaked
IT’S SWELL

A sweet, sour, and fruity ale. Extended oak aging and an addition of blueberries results in a delightful vinous quality.

In brewing, BBL is the notation for “barrel,” a unit of a measurement equal to 31 gallons. This is not to be confused with an oak barrel, which typically holds nearly two BBLs of beer. Still with us? Great. Blue BBLs is best enjoyed fresh for peak fruit flavor, but may develop pleasantly with time if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C). Best enjoyed in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

Released to the Bruery Reserve and Hoarders society, the original version of this brew was released to Hoarders a couple of years ago and since I finally had a chance to try before, I had to get this one again. With only so few variants of Black Tuesday ever released in bottles, this one is a staple just like the others. From the first time I tried it, I had fallen for this one. Reminding me similar to wineification but in blueberry form and still showcasing the flavors of the Black Tuesday along with the flavors of Tart of Darkness. So with the release under the Terreux now, let’ see how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Blueberry flan, Dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, wine grapes, Concorde grape skins, raspberries, figs, dark cherries, vinous grapes, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, blueberry fudge cake, bananas, port wine, chambord raspberry liqueur, rocky road ice cream, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, Belgian Chocolate, Danish cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk and hazelnut nectar.

Flavors:
Super blueberries, tart blueberry skins, concord grapes, blueberry flan, blueberry muffins, blueberry cheese cake, blueberry fudge cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, blackberries, wine grapes, Concorde grape skins, raspberries, figs, dark cherries, vinous grapes, port wine, chambord raspberry liqueur, rocky road ice cream, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, burnt sugar, banana notes, Irish cream, molasses, anise, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Danish cream, maple syrup, sweetened condensed milk, hazelnut nectar, crème brulee, pecan pie, blueberry preserves and blueberry chocolate cake.

Aftertaste:
Lots of Blueberries that linger forever, with flavors of the dark chocolate, bourbon, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, flan, sweetended condensed milk. Sweetness covers up a lot of the alcohol so only slight in taste but mainly sweet. Dark and Pitch black full body just like the original. Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel, and a sipping drinkability although it seems easy to drink at times like many of the dangerous yet “plug it into my veins” beers go.

Overall:
If the Draco was the Blueberry Barleywine heaven and Smashed Blueberry the Wee Heavy Porter Blueberry heaven, then this must the imperial and sour stout of blueberry heaven. It is just as delicious as I had remembered when I first tried it. I am really happy they decided to release this one again and hope they make this a staple in their variant beer blends. There is a rich amount of blueberry yogurt chocolate complexity going on in this beer that can only be understood with every sip. This one is one of my favorites along with the Black Tuesday variants and is definitely one for the list. This beer is a must have if you have not tried it. Best to all that love Blueberry Stouts.

Anime Corner:
Shampoo from Ranma ½ was my girl for this beer as well as the original Blue BBLS. In the show, the main character Ranma hardly paid any attention to her even though she was the hottest girl in the show giving any man there including real men/women a boner. She was a huge representative of Amazonian women as she was huge but also very skilled kung fu master as well as a waitress. Her passion to fight for Ranma would be the kind that would destroy mountains and that is why even to this day she is one of my favorite characters of anime from back in the 90s. When I thought of Blue BBLs it not only reminded me of her being that representative of giving blue balls to others that liked her but mainly her Chinese style of hair with the little buns that looks like two blue balls. Shampoo’s strength and sweetheart of a personality but vicious for her passion is representative of the beers alcoholic strength and sweet super complexity.

Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Shampoo.(Ranma.½).full.875459.jpg
http://pds25.egloos.com/pds/201602/04/56/f0027756_56b3675f4c9ff.jpg
http://asha47110.deviantart.com/art/Shampoo-Ranma-FANART-D-509416937
http://orig14.deviantart.net/da6a/f/2015/142/1/a/shampoo__palette_challenge__by_animusubi-d8uapeg.png

2016 Saixon by The Bruery Terreux

June 25, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged belgian, Belgo, Bleach, Brettanomyces, Farmhouse Ale, Hallertau, Mandarina Bavarian hops, Matsumoto, Opal, Rangiku, Saison, saixon, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.25/5

2016 Saixon by The Bruery Terreux is a 6.7% ABV Belgo-German Saison/Farmhouse ale brewed with Hallertau, Opal and Mandarina Bavarian Hops and Brettanomyces

Label:
Crisp – Spicy – Worldly
Saixon is a saison – not a typo. But it’s different. The saison style traces its origin back to Wallonia, the predominantly French-speaking (and bordering) region of Belgium. We asked ourselves what the style would be like if the pendulum swung East and took root closer to the German border of Belgium. And then we brewed it. Presupposition meets new inspiration in this Belgo-German hybrid. In addition to the dry, crisp and funky notes you’d associate with the classic saison style – and the wildly traditional use of Brettanomyces, Saixon also features three generations of German hops: old school (Hallertau Mittlefruh), second wave (Opal), and new school (Mandarina Bavaria and Hallertau Blanc). Santé? Prost? Cheers!

==Introduction==

Released to all societies including some to the public at the Bruery’s online store (the bruerystore.com), this is the bruery’s attempt at a Farmhouse Ale/ Saison but using German hops. It is a different take on the rustic style that many including myself enjoy very well. German beers have a very special place for me and to have a German inspired saison is a great way to take stuff into a new realm for both countries to complement. With that being said, let’s see how this one is, cheers.

Aromas:
Peppercorn, stone fruit apricot, plum, mango notes, funky farmhouse notes, mild tropical notes, vanilla, waffle cone, banana hints, citrusy, grassy and herbal hops, floral notes and mild clove spice.

Flavors:
Funky farmhouse hay, banana, clove spice, farmhouse hay, peppercorn, sea salt, floral hibiscus, chamomile, waffle cone, biscuit bread, lemon peel, stone fruit apricot, plum, mango notes, oranges, citrusy, grassy and herbal hops, white grapes, vanilla, honey, mint, coriander spice, basil, tropical fruit hints of pineapple, passion fruit and dragon fruit.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with stone fruit notes, lemon peel, spicy, herbally, hoppy and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, golden hazy medium body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good saison show casing a lot of the crisp and clean tasting flavors of the German hops with the rustic Belgian inspired flavors of the saison. Something that is not super complex or super funky but right down the middle of the road and yet very different. Definitely worth a try.

Anime Corner:
Matsumoto Rangiku from Bleach was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of both Belgium and Germany. The Orange and yellow from her hair and the black of her Hakama. It was a simple choice as the beer is Belgian and German inspired and since I haven’t used Matsumoto in a beer pairing in a long time, I figure it was about time then.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/ZW20MtI.jpg
http://76.72.168.19/images/2015-04-12-726521.jpeg
http://static.zerochan.net/full/19/33/19169.jpg

2016 Share This Coffee by The Bruery

June 3, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Full Metal Daemon, Imperial Stout, Mostra Coffee, Sandaime Muramasa, Share This Coffee, sharethisbeer, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2016 Share This Coffee by The Bruery is an 11.9% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Mostra Coffee

Label:
Lend a Hand

Share This Experience with a friend, and in the process you’ll be part of helping friends in the Philippines become mobile for the first time. For every bottle we produce, Free Wheelchair Mission receives one dollar. #sharethisbeer made with MOSTRA COFFEE

Share This is a series of beers that will each spotlight unique ingredients and support an important cause. Our first release sources coffee from the Philippines and supports Free Wheelchair Mission.

==Introduction==
Released nationwide, this beer was made to support a good cause and it is one of two so far that will be released in efforts to assist charitable organizations. Good deal. Buy a beer, help people. I think many breweries should do this but only if it is within their limits to do so. Some up and coming breweries may not have the capacity. Anyways, it has been a while since I have tried a regular non-super ABV stout from the Bruery (aside from So Happens Its Tuesday). One with coffee no less, and coffee I have heard of but I do not think I have tried their brand. Let’s see how this one goes. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruit raisins, cherries, currants, blackberries, raspberry, vanilla, caramel, toffee, roasted coffee, espresso, mocha, rocky road ice cream notes, Khalua liqueur notes, crème brulee, steamed milk, marshmallows and toasted coconut.

Flavors:
Complex coffee flavors, mocha, roasted coffee, espresso, java, molasses, tobacco, licorice, anise, toasted coconut, chocolate cake, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, marshmallows, smores, rocky road ice cream notes, Khalua liqueur notes, crème brulee, steamed milk, Irish cream, dark fruit raisins, cherries, currants, blackberries, raspberry, vanilla, caramel, toffee, earthy hop notes, pecan pie, oreo cookies, flan, hazelnut and fruit cake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with complex coffee flavors, mocha, dark fruit, dark roast coffee, Irish cream, vanilla, caramel, marshmallows, pecan pie and toffee. No alcohol in the taste despite the high ABV. Dark Full body, creamy, smooth, rich and velvety mouthfeel and easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A perfect stout whose status is put there really by the chocolatey mocha complex flavors of the coffee’s contribution to the Bruery’s already World Class methods of brewing. I think many people are going to enjoy this one especially if they like Coffee and chocolate stouts. Even at the high ABV it is, it is pretty drinkable with no offending alcoholic bite. Definitely something that should be sought out. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Sandaime Muramasa from Full Metal Daemon was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair the colors of the label, the flavors and the “Share” this aspect and coffee. Like a Barista serving coffee. Although, Sandaime is actually a maid in this one. Either way, I really liked the colors and the pictures. It is a character I have not paired with a beer in a very long time.

Sources:
https://animebeers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/0dbb7-1344242209717.jpg
http://img1.reactor.cc/pics/post/full/Anime-Adult-swim-Anime-Adult-Anime-Sansei-Muramasa-3030551.jpeg
http://nu-ku.net/cg/20160115_063/20160115_063_005.jpg
http://p.im9.eu/9eb4f837d8e270bba8f1cb53b66415b7.jpg

2016 Oude Tart with Cherries by The Bruery Terreux

May 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged cherries, Dark Cherries, Flanders, Flanders Red Ale, Flemish Red Brown Ale, Oak aged, Oak Aged Ale, oak barrels, Oude Tart, Oude Tart with Cherries, Ruby, Ruby Rose, Rwby, tart cherry juice, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Yang Xiao Long | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2016 Oude Tart with Cherries by The Bruery Terreux is an 8.4% ABV World Class Flanders/Flemish Red Ale aged in oak barrels with Cherries.

Label:
Plump-Leathery-Tangy

Commercial Description:
Oude Tart is a Flemish-Style Red Ale aged in red wine barrels for up to 18 months. This version has had cherries added for the final stages of barrel aging. It’s pleasantly sour with hints of leather, tangy dark fruit, plump cherries and toasty oak. While the base beer is one of the more classic styles that we make, it’s not a style that you can find too often in the United States. Originating in style from the Flanders region of Belgium, near the French border, this dark, sour ale has roots deep in brewing history and predates most of the ales that have become popular in contemporary culture. We’re doing our best to keep the tradition alive by brewing and aging this beer here on the West Coast.

==Introduction==

Releases to all societies of the Bruery, this is the second time I try this beer. The first time I tried I had recalled all the delicious cherry flavors and how it definitely made a mark. To me it felt so much that I had to bring it back for another go. Now with much more released, you may get a chance to try it this time if you for the society membership. Let’s see how this new batch does.

Aromas:
Caramel, rye bread, dark cherries, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, raspberries, oak mustiness, lemon, leather, brown sugar, vanilla, funky wine grapes, tart cherry juice, sour apples, cherry pie, pecan pie hints, cinnamon, oak, hazelnut and cherry cheesecake notes.

Flavors:
Dark Cherry forward, Black Cherry Yogurt, lemon peels, biscuit bread, dark fruit raisins, plums, currants, figs, vanilla, oak, leather, tobacco, cherry preserves on rye bread, crème brulee, toffee, red wine, wine grapes, cherry cobbler, caramel, cherry cheesecake, brown sugar, tropical fruit notes of pineapple, stone fruit apricots, mango, pecan pie, coconut hints, cherry cobbler, fruit cake, and Danish cookies.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with dry notes of caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, dark cherry yogurt, and wine oak notes. No alcohol in the taste, medium reddish brown body, creamy, effervescent, velvety mouthfeel and moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Very delicious and as always, love how the Cherries just go through the sourness and give more of like a sweet dark cherry tart yogurt flavor. The complexity is just as awesome as when I had it before and while I think the Cherries do change the dynamic of the original oude tart, it essentially makes it very appealing. Good thing now the preservation societies can enjoy this one as well and soon, the public. Highly recommended sours.

Anime Corner:
Ruby Rose and her sister Yang Xiao Long from RWBY were used in this pairing since I used Yang in the Oude Tar Pairing. In fact, they were used in the previous Oude Tart Cherries pairing. Because of the fact that they are sisters, putting them together is like adding the cherries to Oude Tart. Ruby Rose, ofcourse is the cherry here. They are an awesome team. I wanted to show how the beer tends to be a splash of fruity flavors as you can see Ruby jumping in to add that layer of complexity.

Sources:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mc2rOFKCQXc/maxresdefault.jpg
http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140429113205/rwby/images/4/47/Blake_belladonna_clouds_moon_pool_ruby_rose_rwby_signed_sky_swimsuit_weiss_schnee_yang_xiao_long.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/CBJv02O.jpg

Chupacabra Quinceañera by the Bruery Terreux

May 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Brettanomyces, Chupacabra Quinceañera, Chupacabras, Darkstalkers, Escalofriante, Lilith Aensland, Lupulo, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, Tropical | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

Chupacabra Quinceañera by the Bruery Terreux is a 4.9% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with Brettanomyces.

Label:
Lupulo-¡Escalofriante!-Tropical

Commercial Description:
Chupacabra Quinceañera is a refreshing 100% Brett-fermented blonde beer bursting with clean tropical aroma from the unique brett strain used for fermentation. These notes are complemented with the subtle use of Simcoe and Amarillo hops, which add layers of tangerine and passionfruit. It’s quite the party.

==Introduction==

Available to Reserve and Hoarders Society members of the Bruery, this beer was something I wanted to try since last year when it was released in the tap room. An original pilot batch by Sean Flannery which was made using Brettanomyces Bruxellensis Trois which is a strain that give the beer tropical flavors rather than barnyard funk. The name of Chupacabras Quinceañera or the Sweet 15th of the Goat Sucker was made as a tribute to creating a beer with mythical brett strains. In 2013, they made one with another mythical strain and called it Werewolf Barmitzvah. I never did get a chance to try Chupacabra Quinceañera and now that it is here, let’s present her to the site. A wild ale with Brettanomyces but how will it differ from the other Bretty beers. Some with citrus, orange and saison funks or even tropical notes. Let’s take a look at how this one is, cheers!

Aromas:
Citrus, piney, floral and grassy hop notes, biscuit bread, hibiscus flowers, lavender, roses, tropical fruit pineapple, honeydew melon, papaya, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, prickly pears, stone fruit peaches, apricot, lemon peel and tangerine gummies.

Flavors:
Lots of tropics and funk, pineapple, honeydew melon, papaya, passion fruit, dragon fruit, guava, prickly pears, citrus, piney, floral and grassy hop notes, peppercorn, farmhouse hay, stone fruit apricot, peaches, tangerine gummies, white raisins, wine grapes, oranges, lime peels, banana notes, clove spice, barnyard funk, vanilla, oak, butterscotch hints, biscuit bread, hibiscus flowers, lavender, roses, lemon grass, basil, Danish cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with tropical notes, stone fruits, farmhouse hay, citrus, piney and floral hops. No alcohol in the taste, clear golden body, crisp, refreshing, effervescent mouthfeel and easy to drink.

Overall:
A perfect tarty and bretty tropical sour with lots of delicious flavors. Even on the light side, it is flavorful displaying many of the flavors I would love from even Saisons even though it is sour. The use of variant Brett strains gives me ideas for the day I ever make a saison of my own. Tropical flavors are awesome! This one is a definite high recommendation for this that like light crisp sours with lots of bretty and tropical flavors.

Anime Corner:
Lilith Aensland from Darkstalkers was used in this pairing to represent La Chupacabra Quineañera. The reason I chose her is since she is depicted as a younger person, but being a Succubus, she is actually older than she looks. Also since she is a creature of the night, the whole aspect of Chupacabra, or goat sucker, she is a sexual blood sucker. Like her, this beer is very alluring in the flavor profile but do not fall for the tricks as you may meet your doom. Ah who cares, you already started drinking anyway.

Sources:
http://img05.deviantart.net/cb03/i/2014/266/a/e/lilith_aensland_wallpaper_by_jaksonstoker-d809i3x.png
http://static.zerochan.net/Lilith.Aensland.full.309888.jpg
http://blog-imgs-45.fc2.com/a/n/i/animehiroi/14101162.jpg
http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/darkstalkers/images/7/7d/Capcom1708.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20130530095225

Jurassic Gose collaboration by The Bruery Terreux, The Libertine Wild Brews & Blends and Field Recordings

May 28, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Chenin Blanc Grapes, Dino Crisis, Field Recordings, Gose, Jurassic, Jurassic Gose, oak barrel, Port Wine, Port Wine Barrels, Regina, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux, The Libertine Wild Brews & Blends | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.25/6

Jurassic Gose collaboration by The Bruery Terreux, The Libertine Wild Brews & Blends and Field Recordings is a 9.7% ABV Gose aged in Port Wine barrels with Chenin Blanc Grapes.

Label:
Mineralic-Territorial-Dry

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Gose, port wine, chenin blanc grapes, sea salt captured from the Pacific Ocean. None of these existed in the Jurassic era. The creatures that roamed the earth 145+ million years ago had neither the brainpower nor wherewithal to concoct such a creation and collaboration of this magnitude. Fast forward to present day with Bruery Terreux, Libertine Brewing Company and Field Recordings, and these dinosaurs could learn a thing or two about adapting to the environment and making the most out of terroir around them. And that’s exactly where we sought inspiration (and borrowed artwork from our offspring) in the creation of Jurassic Gose. This tart, wheat-based ale is our exploration of a West Coast gose. Jurassic Gose is brewed using the stein beer method with locally-sourced rocks, and features grapes from Jurassic Park Vineyard and sea salt from the Pacific Ocean. Aged in port wine barrels with chenin blanc grapes, this wild collaboration emerges as mineralic, territorial and dry. It’s unlike any gose you’ve had before – in fact, it’s from an entirely different era.

==Introduction==

Released to The Bruery’s Hoarders and Reserve Societies, this Gose was something I wanted to get on the name and ingredients alone. Having only tried few Gose in the past, I wanted to bring their take on this German salty brew to the site. The name makes me think of tropical aspects or exotic flavors. I don’t think this is made ancient ingredients or dinosaurs but it sounds like it may have been inspired by it. Let’s have a look, cheers!

Aromas:
Lemon peel, peppercorns, citrus oranges, tangerines, flowers of hibiscus, lavender, chamomile, roses, stone fruit peaches, apricots, chardonnay, salt, yerba buena, mint, vanilla, tropical fruits like pineapple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, tamarind and grapes.

Flavors:
Lots or tropical fruits like pineapple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, honey dew melon, tamarind, agave nectar, salty Teguacan and Tejuino Mexican Maize drink, limes, tangerines, funky wine grapes, dark fruit port wine, lemon peel, peppercorns, citrus oranges, tangerines, flowers of hibiscus, lavender, chamomile, roses, cane sugar, crème brulee, stone fruit peaches, apricots, mushrooms, brown sugar, celery salt, yerba buena, mint, concord grapes and chardonnay.

Aftertaste:
Finishes very dry with stone fruit, dark fruit, tropical fruit and salty tamarind notes along with port wine grapes. No alcohol in the taste, pale light golden body, crisp, refreshing, smooth and effervescent along with an easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
There was so much going on in this beer that I considered exceptional. From the wine notes and tropical fruit to the funky notes and salty notes, it’s definitely not your average sour. I don’t think I have had a brew aged in port wine before (except maybe Sucre Port Barrel) and since some of the port wine notes are my favorite notes in some beers, I figured this one would be one of the best to try. I would highly recommend this one if you love sours or salty funky brews.

Anime Corner:
Regina from Dino Crisis was used in this pairing as I wanted to get a character that was in a dinosaur game. I had played this game back in the PS1 days and I still remember a good amount of it. So to go with the whole “Jurassic” theme of the beer, I decided to use Regina which I feel worked perfectly including the tropical flavors one with her and the T-Rex.

Sources:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dDGQRQTAlmE/maxresdefault.jpg
http://img0.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Dino-Crisis-Игры-regina-песочница-1125856.jpeg
http://www.hqfreeimages.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Dino-Crisis-HD-Wallpaper-Fully-Rated-Girl-2016-1.jpg

2016 White Mocha by The Bruery

May 26, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Blonde Barley Wine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, cacao nibs, Coffee Beans, Panty, Panty & Stocking, Panty Anarchy, Panty and Stocking, PSG, TCHO Cacao nibs, The Bruery, Tierra Mia, wheat wine, White Chocolate, White Mocha | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2016 White Mocha by The Bruery is a 16.3% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with TCHO Cacao Nibs and Tierra Mia Coffee Beans.

Label:
RISE & SHINE
This bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine-style ale snuggled up with cacao nibs from TCHO and fresh coffee beans from TIERRA MIA COFFEE

White Mocha is our bourbon barrel-aged wheatwine-style ale with cacao nibs and fresh coffee beans. Notes of coffee and chocolate are joined by warm flavors of coconut, honey and vanilla that rise & shine on the palate. If you’ve never fancied yourself a morning person, today might just be your day.

==Introduction==

Released to Reserve and Hoarders Society members of the Bruery, this beer is essentially White Chocolate with Coffee. While in the past, White Chocolate has been a rarity and guilty pleasure along with Black Tuesday and the variants. It was so much so, that they would hardly release enough even to Reserve members. Now in 2015 and 2016, there is a lot of White Chocolate and White Oak to go around which is I guess how they got to experiment with a new brew and so this one was born. Let’s see if this is worth the find, cheers!

Aromas:
Rich Flan, crème brulee, coffee cake, White Chocolate, Bourbon, Cookies and Cream, Cookie dough ice cream, Jamoca ice cream, Espresso coffee, Mocha Chocolate, Irish Cream, Danish Cookies, butterscotch, piloncillo sugar cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding, 3 leches (3 milks) Mexican cake, almond joy, honey, almond milk, tropical fruit like pineapple hints, pears, mango, brown sugar, oak, vanilla, rich hazelnut nectar and pecan pie.

Flavors:
White Chocolate, Espresso coffee, Mocha Chocolate, Jamoca Ice cream, Kopi Luwak fancy notes, coffee cake, bananas, clove spice, flan, crème brulee, sweetened condensed milk, bourbon, brown sugar, oak, vanilla, rich hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, marshmallows, stone fruit peach, apricot, toasted coconut, 3 leches (3 milks) Mexican cake, almond joy, honey, dark fruit cherries, plums, tropical fruit like pineapple hints, pears, mango, almond milk, chocolate mousse, chocolate coffee milk shake, Irish Cream, Danish Cookies, cookie dough ice cream, butterscotch, piloncillo sugar cone, capirotada raisin bread pudding, coriander spice, orange notes, wine grapes and choco flan.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with coffee cake on sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate, butterscotch, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice, bourbon, mocha ice cream and almond cream. No alcohol in the taste but definitely feel the impact later. Honey Gold Amber medium body, silky, syrupy, velvety, and chewy mouthfeel with a dangerously easy to moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Just like the original White Chocolate but in the Fancy supreme coffee direction. I’m a sucker for some of these beers, I admit it and definitely tend to lean my opinion sometimes but just know that this one, just like the White Chocolate, is vastly up there with some of the best beers in the world. In fact, many of the special variants from Black Tuesday and the Bruery process are insane. Made with their house strain, it really gives off some of the beers I like, like the Belgian strains. Anyway, I highly recommend this one. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Panty Anarchy from the Panty & Stocking series was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair mainly with the colors of the label and the WheatWine/BlondeBarley Wine aspect. With the addition of coffee to the White chocolate, the beer becomes very unique. Although white chocolate is not real chocolate but to think of a White Mocha? Well, that’s just a myth… like angels, or could it be true they live among us. Possibly, Panty Anarchy is an angel. A sexually driven one but the seduction of the idea of a white mocha and the complex flavors of the beer are very appealing.

Sources:
http://www.hkcgart.com/Public/static/kindeditor/attached/image/20150811/20150811083942_64879.jpg
http://holichii.deviantart.com/art/Anarchy-Panty-by-Hagiwara-Rin-314568375
http://www.zerochan.net/full/501682
http://static.zerochan.net/Anarchy.Panty.full.1500839.jpg

2016 Preservation Series Ride That Bear by The Bruery

April 9, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Fate Stay Night, Hoppy beer, Imperial Brown Ale, Preservation Series, Preservation Society, Ride That Bear, Rin Tohsaka, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.8/5

2016 Preservation Series Ride That Bear by The Bruery is a 9.2% ABV Imperial Hoppy Brown Ale.

Label:
“GRIN ‘N BEAR IT!”

When you meet a bear in the woods, don’t run or play dead. Ride it! Ride That Bear is an imperial hoppy brown ale. With a sleek malt physique imparting warm, nutty and toasty layers, complemented by California yeast and a particularly excellent sense of smell from dry-hopping, this imperial brown ale is an oso hoppy romp through the California Republic.

==Introduction==

Released for the Preservation, Reserve and Hoarders Society and the public as well. This brown ale was made with bears and California in mind overall. I have tried other hoppy browns before but hoppy browns is usually not common as the browns I have tried typically stick with the English Brown approach as being more malty. Some Ambers are super hoppy to the point of being more of a Red IPA. So with that being said, the only thing that I think would come close is the Stone 18th anniversary Brown IPA which is very rare type of style. It is very delicious either way. With that being said, let’s see how the Bruery makes their attempt at a super hoppy brown ale. Let’s check it out, Cheers.

Aromas:
Caramel, Toffee, crème brulee, pecan pie, hazelnut, piney, grapefruit, grassy, garlicky, earthy, oniony and floral hops, rock candy, dark fruit cherry, currants, tangerine gummies, lemon peel, starburst candy, tropical fruit like pine apple, old mango and honey.

Flavors:
Piney, Grapefruit, grassy, garlicky, earthy, oniony and floral hops, Caramel, Toffee, crème brulee, pecan pie, almond joy, tropical fruit like pine apple, old mango, guava, honey dew melon, peanut butter hints, butter scotch, rye bread, tangerine gummies, lemon peel, starburst candy, orange, herbal spice, yerba buena, honey, hazelnut hints, rock candy, dark fruit cherry, currants and chocolate hints.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with a rush of herbal and tropic hops with caramel, butterscotch, citrus and pecan pie. No alcohol in the taste. Amber Brown medium body, crisp, refreshing and smooth mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious brown ale balancing the sweet and nutty brown ale characteristics with the herbal and tropical hop flavors. The ABV is just right as it increases the mouthfeel and improves the overall experience of trying this one. It reminds me of their Loakal Red but definitely more on the nutty side. Some of the notes do remind me of Stone’s Brown IPA but this one is not as hoppy as that one. I like this one though since there is a nice balance. If you like browns and especially hopped up browns, this is definitely worth the find. A definite recommend.

Anime Corner:
Rin Tohsaka from Fate Stay Night was used in this pairing as I wanted to go with the colors of the label mainly but her hair being brown goes well with the style of the beer. She is in no way a bear really but it is just another excuse to use another favorite character from an Anime series onto a Bruery beer which I have not tried.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/lQwPesO.jpg
http://blog-imgs-43-origin.fc2.com/p/s/p/pspnetkatuyou0224/20120123161321fde.jpg

Frucht: Passion Fruit by The Bruery Terreux

April 9, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Berliner Weisse, Berlinerweisse, Frucht, Hottenroth, Megaman, passion fruit, Rockman, Roll, sour ale, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | 1 Comment

Rating: 4.65/5

Frucht: Passion Fruit by The Bruery Terreux is a 4.3% ABV Berliner Weisse with Passion Fruit

Label:
Fruity – Funky – Racy

Description:
We’re totally Frucht around here. In fact, we may just be filled to the brim, with excitement, that is. Our threshold is 250 BBLs, to be more precise. That’s the total capacity of each new oak foeder at Bruery Terreux. One is dedicated exclusively to Frucht, our new series of fruited Berliner Weisse-style beers. Known for a tart flavor profile and traditionally low ABV, our new German-style wheat beer gains even more funky notes and natural earthy-woodiness from its fermentation in the large oak foeder vessel.

Each installment in the series will feature a new fruit, or Frucht, if we’re Sprechen sie Deutsch. This first installment has passion fruit added, which escalates the tartness, tropicality and palate-cleansing prowess of the base beer. Prost!

==Introduction==

Released to all 3 Bruery Societies (Preservation, Reserve and Hoarders) for Quarter 1 2016, this brew is the first from the Frucht series of beers where they will try to create a variety of sour brews using various brews. An awesome way to start as the series using an exotic fruit such as passion fruit. I definitely love passion fruits and also love Dragon fruits so if you make a Dragon fruit one, please do Bruery. So this one I believe they take the base Berliner (Hottenroth) and make it with passion fruits. I have tried other version of Hottenroth which are decent tangy sours. Let’s see how this one comes up. Cheers!

Aromas:
Fig plant, Floral notes, lavender, passion fruit, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, funky sour notes, citrus blossom honey, dragon fruit hints, papaya, guava tart, pineapple, coriander spice, lemon peel, strawberry hints and wheat bread.

Flavors:
Rich Tart Passion fruit pulp, Pineapple, floral notes, grapefruit peel, lemon peel, citrus peel, mango peels, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, banana hints, coriander spice, peppercorn hints, strawberry notes, dragon fruit, wheat bread, sourdough bready hints, citrus blossom honey, tomato notes, papaya, stone fruit apricots, sour apple notes, oak, hibiscus, lavender and tart guava hints.

Aftertaste:
Finish super dry with notes of flowers, super tart passion fruit, oak and lemon peel. No alcohol in the taste, clear golden light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.

Overall:
A very good and super tart fruit sour brew. The passion fruit is dominant and tarty while still giving that refreshing Berliner experience. You can definitely tell it is more of the actual passion fruit and not a natural flavor of passion fruit. This is definitely something that is a great start for the series and hope they use more exotic fruits. This beer is definitely recommended to those that enjoy super tarty sour beers as it is very tart.

Anime Corner:
Roll from the Megaman Series was used in this series since I have been meaning to pair her with a Bruery beer for a long time. Her colors complement the colors of the label and the passion fruit itself. While such a light beer (ABV) it may complement Roll’s miniature appearance but remember, just the way this is super tart, Roll hides some very destructive power. Don’t make her mad (sip with caution) otherwise she will sour your soul!

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/aK1owbg.jpg
http://blog-imgs-70.fc2.com/k/u/s/kusakunai931/1405151389518.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/QmF44WE.jpg

2016 Les Ronces by the Bruery Terreux

March 4, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Wild Ale, Boysenberries, Echidna, Julie-su, Les Ronces, Oak aged, Sonic The Hedgehog, The Brambles, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 5/5

2016 Les Ronces by the Bruery Terreux is a 6.0% ABV is an American Wild ale with Boysenberries aged in Oak Barrels.

Label:
JAMMY – PUCKERING – QUAFFABLE

Commercial description:
Loosely translated as “The Brambles”, Les Ronces is rooted in Southern California charm. The juicy fruit was commercially brought to life near Bruery Terreux at Knott’s farm in Buena Park, California in the early 1930s. Since their peak in popularity, the berries have become more scarce and elusive, and at the same time, an ideal cohort for our wildly traditional bière. In Les Ronces, the boysenberries impart a reddish-purple hue to the oak-aged ale, with their sweet-tart flavor profile complementing the sour blonde base in a light jammy, puckering and refreshing fashion.
==Introduction==

Released to 2016 Reserve and Hoarders, this sour was made with the Bruery trying to use a different variety of fruits for making their sours and beers. All in the name of experimentation. This one though, reminded me of the time I tried the Bramble Rye from Goose Island’s Bourbon County series. If they ever make something like that, I would definitely want to try it. So with this sour, you can say I was intrigued to give it a shot for sure and is the reason I got it and brought it to the site. Some sours are a hit or miss for me from the Bruery. While I like sours, I like maltier beers more. So when it is done right, I definitely enjoy them. Like Jolly Pumpkin for example. So let’s see about this one. Cheers!

Aromas:
Wine grapes, earthy funk, oak, stone fruit peaches, apricots, peppercorn hints, Dark fruit raspberries, boysenberries, toasted rye bread, strawberry jam, lemon peel, honey and caramel notes.

Flavors:
Dark fruit raspberries, boysenberries, raisin hints, tart berry skins, Concorde grapes, wine grapes, Boysenberry preserves on Toasted Rye bread, Strawberry Jam, citrus, lemon peel, cranberries, honey, caramel hints, guava hints, pineapple hints, fruit cake hints, stone fruit peaches, apricots, hibiscus flowers, lavender, brown sugar hints pecan pie hints, funky hay notes, earthy funk, oak and strawberry shortcake.

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with hints of dark fruit, earthy funk, oak, wine grapes, lemons, citrus and toasted rye bread. No alcohol in the taste, Ruby Hot Pink clear body, effervescent, puckering, crisp and refreshing mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious and perfect sour showcasing the many tarty and sweet delicious fruits. While it is a sour, the body of the brew and characters of boysenberry preserves on toast do come out. Similarly, this reminds me similarly of what they did with Ruebarb/Windowsill and Gypsy Tart. Essentially, a dessert sour. While the sour and tart flavors are there to balance out the brew as a whole, it makes for one delicious brew if you are into sours. Definitely recommended.

Anime Corner:
Julie-su the Echidna from Sonic the Hedgehog Comics was used in this pairing to go with the label colors, the color of the beer as well as the boysenberries mainly. I have not used her in a Bruery or beer review in general and so I figured with all the colors following close to her colors I thought that this would be a very good fit for the pairing.

Sources:
http://img01.deviantart.net/4ea8/i/2011/338/2/f/julie_su_commission_by_one_dimensional_man-d4i62h1.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/ba38/i/2005/364/1/b/julie_su_coloured_by_tazi_san.jpg

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery

February 27, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bakuretsu Tenshi, Black Tuesday, Burst Angel, Imperial Stout, JO, Session beer, So Happens It's Tuesday, The Bruery | 1 Comment

Rating: 5.75/6

2016 So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery is a 14% ABV Imperial Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

Label:
IT HAPPENS

A dark and delicious display of rich malts, toasty oak flavors and vanilla-like notes from extended aging in bourbon barrels.

Our infamous Black Tuesday stout is named in honor of the great stock market crash of 1929. So Happens It’s Tuesday is similarly dark and delicious, but in a more affable format, reminding us that there is always a bit of good to be found within the bad. Things happen, life goes on. This beer can be enjoyed in all of those moments and seasons, ideally served at 55°F (13°C) in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

Released to the Reserve and Hoarders Society members and to the public soon. Essentially, this is supposed to the “Session” version of Black Tuesday. That is a pretty bold statement considering the original is 20%ABV!!!!!!!!!!!! Their original run from 2014 did not make it and so they decided it to rebrew it. At a smaller ABV, I have to see how this fairs. Yes, this is not the same as the Black Tuesday and I know I said I would not review the regular since I did s countless times but this is an exception. I always wanted to bring this “Session” brew to the site, now it is here! Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Rich toasted coconut, oak, bourbon, maple syrup, crème brulee, chocolate cherry cake, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, mocha hints, dark fruit cherries, prunes, raisins, cocada Mexican coconut candy, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, prunes, raisins, plums, figs, currants and toffee.

Flavors:
Rich Toasted Coconut, oak, bourbon, Dark fruit cherries, raspberries, prunes, raisins, plums, figs, currants, cocada Mexican coconut candy, Dulce de leche caramel, bananas, vanilla, clove spice, marshmallow smores, rocky road ice cream, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, brown sugar, maple syrup, crème brulee, chocolate cherry cake, Three Milks/Tres Leches cream, mocha hints, Oreo cookies and cream, Toffee, Piloncillo Sugar Cone, flan, and leche nestle/sweetened condenced milk.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with toasted coconut, vanilla, marshmallow, bourbon, rich dark fruits, caramel, oak, bananas and clove spice. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Pitch black dark like the original, smooth, creamy, syrupy nd velvety mouthfeel and damn drinkable even though the ABV says otherwise. Crazy huh? But I would not doubt it especially for a “session”.

Overall:
An exceptional brew right off the bat! While yes, it is not as super complex or strong ABV wise, this brew is still a Black Tuesday. I think of it as a session especially since it seems that it is too easy to drink even for the ABV. I don’t know what it is that makes it very covetable, but it is. Also, the fact that this might see a public release soon is very thrilling for people that have not tried the regular Black Tuesday. It is a great example of what to expect and more drinkable at that. Definitely get it!

Anime Corner:
Jo from Burst Angel was used in this pairing since her story is similar to KOS-MOS where she did not know she was basically a genetic war machine. Essentially, like KOS-MOS, she learned about her past near the end of the series and her true purpose. Other than the similarities (Both Machines, pilots of Mechs) which I felt best fit my theme of the pairings for Black Tuesday (the collapse of a system for a new age to emerge) This beer’s ingredients and flavors pair well with some of the colors on Jo. I also added one where she is with Meg, her partner to show case some more colors.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/EV1sL.jpg
http://blog-imgs-31-origin.fc2.com/k/i/n/kingqueenjack/20100523005416511.jpg
http://my-site.at.ua/_ph/2/720982297.jpg

Scotch Whisky Barrel Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery

February 27, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 8th Anniversary, anniversary ale, anniversary gifts, Metroid, Nintendo, Old Ale, Poterie, Samus Aran, scotch whiskey, Scotch Whisky Barrel aged, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6.25/7

Scotch Whisky Barrel Poterie (8th Anniversary Ale) by The Bruery is a 14.8% ABV Old Ale aged in Scotch Whisky Barrels.

Our eighth anniversary ale, loosely brewed in the English-style Old Ale tradition using our house Belgian yeast strain. This edition was 100% aged in oak barrels that previously held Scotch Whisky, imparting a subtle smoky complexity. Poterie (Pottery) will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.

COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Poterie is French for “pottery”, the traditional eight-year anniversary gift. Our eighth anniversary ale, Poterie, follows in the footsteps of our anniversary releases before it, which are loosely based on an English-style old ale and fermented with our house yeast strain. This edition was 100% aged in oak barrels that previously held Scotch, imparting a subtle smoky complexity to complement the robust flavors of toffee, caramel, dark fruit, vanilla and oak. Poterie will age gracefully for decades when cellared properly.

==Introduction==

An Anniversary beer this early in the year? What? And a variant no less. Poterie was originally released in January to Hoarders society members. Since they had some extras, it looks like they let Reserve society members have a crack at it. So since that was the case, I was able to bring it to the site. With limited releases of this variant, it would most likely need to be traded unless you buy it from an online site. Why this was released before the regular anniversary, I am not sure. However, it is what it is and I can’t wait to try this new spirit variant. Cheers!

Aromas:
Bananas, Clove spice, raspberry Chambord, maple syrup, graham crackers, brown sugar, Cadbury chocolate cream eggs, Dulce de leche caramel, raspberry Chambord, dark fruit raisins, plums, blueberries, smoked peat, piloncillo sugar cone, flan, marshmallows, fruit cake, pecan pie and sweet condensed milk.

Flavors:
Cadbury chocolate cream eggs, super rich dark fruit raisins, plums, blueberries, smoked peat, toasted coconut, bourbon, scotch whisky, rum notes, oak, chocolate truffle ice cream, Belgian candi sugars, burnt sugar, rich butterscotch, waffle cone, raspberry Chambord, maple syrup, graham crackers, brown sugars, bananas, plantains, molasses, chocolate mousee, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, port wine, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate cherry cordials, mocha hints, pecan pie, fruit cake, flan, marshmallows, toasted coconut, piloncillo sugar cone, burnt cane sugar, clove spice, nutmeg, hazelnut nectar, blueberry cheesecake and cookie dough ice cream.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with straight up darkfruits, caramels, smoked peat, blueberries, raspberries, vanilla, Scotch whisky hints, bourbon, fruit cake, marshmallow, coconut, and nutty aftertaste. Some alcohol in the aftertaste but not detracting from the rich flavors. Dark crimson brown medium to full body, silky, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Supreme of Supremes!! I don’t know what it is about this brew that I like so much. The solera method they used over the years has seems to have created more complex flavors. It’s that or the fact that this is Scotch Whisky Barrel aged. Which I would assume it can only be the bourbon. I won’t know until I compare this to the regular bourbon anniversary one that comes out nearing May 2016. Either way, I am glad they decided to release this to Reserve Society members so I could bring it to the site and give you some information on it. Definitely highly recommended.

Anime Corner:
Samus Aran from Nintendo’s Metroid series was used in this review as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label. The blues and oranges seem to stand out very well. Also, since I have done a trend on these using characters in body suits, I figured it was perfect. The Poterie aspect in the name works well too as in one of the artworks, her armor is like the color of pottery so her being inside the suit is like the beer being inside a ceramic vase. Definitely creative that is for sure. The complexity and flavors just mimic her character as well as she is both strong and her story is very deep.

Sources:
http://favera.ru/img/2015/09/24/1062753_1443098138.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7f/e9/fe/7fe9febe63bbaa4177af9f13b25e13ee.jpg

2016 Mocha Wednesday by the Bruery

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

Rating: 6/6

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

Label:
MORNING AFTER

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Chronology:6 Wee Heavy by the Bruery

February 26, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chronology:6, Cortana, halo, master chief, Scotch Ale, The Bruery, Wee Heavy | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.85/6

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

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

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Colonel Kernel by The Bruery

February 26, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Barleywine, Bourbon Barrel Aged, Colonel Kernel, corn bread, Cornwine, Legend of Zelda, maize, Sheik, The Bruery, Zelda | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.5/6

2016 Colonel Kernel by The Bruery is a 14.8% ABV Cornwine aged in bourbon barrels.

Label:
BEAST OF BOURBON

Colonel Kernel is a bourbon barrel-aged barleywine-style ale with corn. Think of it as sticky caramel corn served out of a toasty bourbon barrel, but without the kernels to stick in your teeth. It’s best enjoyed while in uniform via a tulip or wine glass, unless you want an earful. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 55°F (13°C).

==Introduction==

Released to the 2015 and 2016 Reserve and Hoarders Society members, this is a brew that was made using corn. I would definitely be a skeptic about corn and beer as corn is mainly an adjunct to commercial lagers like rice. However, this is the Bruery were talking about and if they can pull off an amazing corn based brew, then I want to see it!… and try it ofcourse. With that being said, it does bring up both the sense of concern but also a sense of intrigue. How will this one do? Let’s check it out. So here it is, Colonel Kernel. Cheers!

Aromas:
Caramel Popcorn, Toffee, Butterscotch, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, , rye bread, maple, custard, corn bread, cane sugar, bananas, almonds, pecan pie, walnuts, crème brulee and capirotada raisin bread pudding.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche Caramel, Butterscotch, toffee, bourbon, oak, vanilla, cream corn, caramelized popcorn, maize, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, almonds, pecan pie, walnuts, crème brulee, maize atole hints, capirotada raisin bread pudding, macadmia nuts, milk chocolate, oatmeal, cream of wheat, grilled bananas, clove spice, port wine, coconut hints, rocky road icecream, marshmallows, smores, hazelnut hints, rye bread, maple, custard, corn bread and cane sugar.

Aftertaste:
Finishing with caramelized popcorn notes, butterscotch, bourbon, rocky road ice cream, creamy maize atole hints, maple and dark fruits. Boozy alcohol in the taste. Dark Honey colored full body, creamy, velvety, chewy and syrupy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional brew providing a variety of complex flavors. One thing to note about this one is that it is pretty boozy. While still giving off lots of caramelized corn and sweet flavors, time will definitely do wonders for this one. Hence the lower rating. Still though, it can easily be a supreme after sometime. It proves it on its own even with the alcohol burn. I would recommend getting it for. Try one now and one to cellar to see how it fares overtime.

Anime Corner:
Sheik/Zelda from The Legend of Zelda was used in this pairing mainly for the colors of the label which also happen to be some of the colors of the ingredients and flavors like the corn, maize and the dark fruits. Mainly as corn being an elusive ingredient in craft brews mainly since it’s an adjunct, when done right, it can be an amazing ingredient to use in brews. This elusiveness is something that Sheik is. Essentially, you never knew it was actually Princess Zelda the entire time helping Link out.

Sources:
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p228/LittleMarionette/PrincessZeldafull1153657.jpg~original
http://img12.deviantart.net/1479/i/2014/004/1/5/sheik___zelda_by_diabolumberto-d70rooo.jpg

Forth Meal collaboration by The Bruery and Maine Beer Company

February 4, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Pale Ale, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, Fourth Meal, Jigoku no Fubuki, Maine Beer Company, One Punch Man, Ruby Rose, Rwby, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.5/5

Forth Meal collaboration by The Bruery and Maine Beer Company is a 6.9% ABV Belgian Pale Ale

Label:
DO WHAT’S RIGHT…AT 1AM.
The Bruery and Maine Beer Company got together and cooked up something special for you: fourthmeal. It isn’t brunch; it isn’t “linner.” It’s a hoppy Belgian-style ale that brings aspects of both breweries to the table: fruity, Belgian yeast esters, a crisp, bready backbone, citrus and piney hop characteristics, and a dry, hop-forward finish. There’s no one shouting “come n’ git it” when it’s time to dine – just mouth-watering, dry-hopped aromatics, signaling that it’s time for fourthmeal.

==Introduction==

This one was sold and released by the Bruery to the public. While it will have a limited run, this is another collaboration. This time, they paired with Maine Beer Company and created a fused beer with specialties from both breweries in one. Typically with beers like these, Pale Ales or Belgian Pale Ales, I try to find some new things from them. I like to see if it will be something unique or something I have had before and in some cases, something that might not be pleasant. Regardless, many of the Bruery beers are still awesome so I am sure this one will not fall short of the expectations.

Aromas:
Honey, Floral, piney, herbal, citrus and grassy hops, bananas, clove spice, phenolic notes, , biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel hints, peppercorns, phenolic hints, tropical fruit of pineapple, passion fruit hints, green grapes, stone fruit apricot, cane sugar, tangerine hints and waffle cone notes.

Flavors:
Citrus, herbal, floral, piney, garlicky and grassy hops, Peppercorns, mild Belgian candi sugar, lemons, hibiscus flowers, biscuit bread, stone fruit apricot, cane sugar, tangerine hints, waffle cone, coriander spice, mild toffee notes, vanilla, tropical fruit of pineapple, passion fruit hints, green grapes, phenolic notes and hints of banana.

Aftertaste:
Finishes with hoppy notes, biscuit bread, peppercorns, honey and mild stone fruit. No alcohol in the taste, light to medium straw gold body, crisp, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel. While it was very good, I feel like it may not be too different from some of the awesome servings that the Bruery has done before. I think if you are willing to search to try it simply since it is a collaboration of the Bruery, it is worth a try.

Overall:
A very good Belgian golden beer. The hops are definitely the predominant part of this beer while the sweetness is mildly complex but balances out with the hops very well.

Anime Corner:
Fubuki from One Punch Man and Ruby Rose from RWBY were used in this pairing to go with eating in general. The fact that they call this a meal was what prompted me to find something with eating or mainly having the munchies. What else will people eat late at night? How bout cookies? So when I found this really cute artwork, I was compelled to use it. It fits well with the label and the colors but also represents the breweries as collaboration and eating food.

Sources:
http://i2.pixiv.net/c/1200×1200/img-master/img/2015/12/05/16/53/38/53891605_p26_master1200.jpg

Ruebarb (Windowsill’s Return?) The Bruery Terreux

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

Rating: 5/5

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

Label:
Snappy – Fruity – Oaky

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

==Introduction==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chronology:18 by The Bruery

February 4, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Bourbon Barrel Aged, Chrono Cross, Chrono Cross Kid, Chrono Trigger, Chronology:18, English Old Ale, Kid, Schala, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Chronology:18 by The Bruery is a 16.6% ABV English Old Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels for 18 months.

Label:
TICK TOCK
18 months Oak Aged Ale
This English-Style Old Ale is the second in a chronologically aged series that will be released at 6 month intervals for a fascinating view of evolution.

Our Chronology series is an experiment with time. A single beer will aged in bourbon barrels and be released 6, 12, 18 and 24 month periods. Delicious while fresh, but existing to taste side by side upon each subsequent released as time moves forward.
==Introduction==

It has been another 18 months since the release of the original Chronology. Sold to members of the Reserve and Hoarders Societies of the Bruery. This, I believe, is the last installment in the original series as in 2016 there will be a new series using a different style of beer. The other ones have been wonderful and rich and I really think time has made this one more and more complex. So now on its 18 month journey through time, let us take a look at where it is at now. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit cherries, raspberries, black currants, plums, figs, raisins, piloncillo sugar cone, peanut butter, maple syrup, pecan pie, Danish cream, milk chocolate, almond joy chocolate, chocolate truffle ice cream, port wine, coconut, marshmallow, dulce de leche caramel, wine grapes, grilled bananas, plantains, capirotada bread pudding, raspberry Chambord and sweetened condensed milk.

Flavors:
Rich pecan pie, dulce de leche caramel, wine grapes, grilled bananas, plantains, port wine, coconut, marshmallow, Danish cream, Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake, sweetened condensed milk, milk chocolate, almond joy chocolate, chocolate truffle ice cream, Belgian Waffles, Rocky road ice cream, oak, bourbon, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, black currants, plums, figs, raisins, honey, cookie dough ice cream, maple syrup, capirotada bread pudding, raspberry Chambord, piloncillo sugar cone, peanut butter and maple syrup.

Aftertaste:
Rich pecan pie and bananas forward, dark and stone fruit followed, with dulce de leche caramel, bourbon, piloncillo sugar cone, coconut, oak, earthy notes, spicy notes and marshmallows. Mild alcohol in the taste, dark crimson full body, sipping drinkability, creamy, smooth and syrupy mouthfeel.

Overall:
Holy crap, the age of it has just turned this one into a magic potion. The pecan pie and banana flavors were damn straight forward in the flavors. Pretty mind blowing actually. I am not sure if the Chronology:24 was to follow but we will see as time goes on. For now, this is a must. If you can get 6, 12 or 18, just cellar them for several months to get the equivalent one or age them for years. In 2016, we will have style. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Schala from Chrono Trigger was used in this pairing as she was one of the main characters of the game in terms of time and dimension traveling. With this being the last Chrono beer in the 2015 Chronology, I felt it was right to bring forth Schala to pair with this brew. I had already used Kid from Chrono Cross on another Bruery beer but a small tribute in the pairing you see here was the least I could do. It is amazing what time does to beer and this beer was no exception. It did evolve to greatness.

Sources:
https://static.neregate.com/2015/10/25.10.2015.jpg
http://img11.deviantart.net/cf2c/i/2008/034/7/0/schala_in_zeal_by_braintreestudios.jpg
http://orig10.deviantart.net/0854/f/2012/267/6/1/schala_by_caraya-d5frmib.png

2012 Provisions Collaboration Series: A Stein’s Throw by The Bruery and TAPS Fish House & Brewery

February 4, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged American Barleywine, Barleywine, collaboration, Collaboration Beer, Date Sugar, Dates, Granite, Hellsing, provisions, Seras Victoria, Sir Integral Wingates Hellsing, SteinBier, TAPS Fish House & Brewery, The Bruery | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

2012 Provisions Collaboration Series: A Stein’s Throw by The Bruery and TAPS Fish House & Brewery is an 8.5% ABV Barleywine SteinBier brewed with Date Sugar & Granite.

Label:
STONE AGE

Located just 5 miles from The Bruery, TAPS is one of the country’s most awarded brew pubs. Known for their classic European beers (and delicious Sea Bass), we decided to brew something classic, yet complex by heating granite rocks to 900° F before adding them to the wort for an intense caramelization. A Stein’s throw is suitable for aging up to 2 years.

==Introduction==

It’s been more like close to 4 years since its release. I was able to snag a bottle from the Bruery through their holiday sales. I have always wanted to try this one ever since my friend Will Carranza tried it at the Bruery when he went there a couple years ago. At the time, I was not aware of the different awesome beers from them except the exclusive ones. So when I saw this rarity pop up, I had to bring it to the site. Especially since I have not had this style and the method they used with granite rocks is crazy! I would think at those high temps, would the sugars become caramelized for the yeast not to be able to ferment it? Well, maybe they have a way to blend the wort with more malt and I think that’s where the Barleywine aspect comes in. Let’s see what this is about, cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, dates, figs, plums, sugar plums, currants, toasted biscuit bread, trail mix, berry granola bar, rich Caramel, dulce de leche caramel, Mexican Goat Milk Caramel (Cajeta), Toffee, Raspberry Marzipan, bananas and clove spice, burnt sugar, Stone fruit peach notes, orange preserve hints, honey, waffle cone, marshmallows, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, rock candy, figgy pudding and flan notes

Flavors:
Rich Caramel, Dulce de leche caramel, Mexican Goat Milk Caramel (Cajeta), Toffee, Dark fruit raisins, dates, figs, plums, sugar plums, currants, rich dark candi sugars, English cream, vanilla, grape notes, port wine, Stone fruit peach notes, orange preserve hints, honey, waffle cone, marshmallows, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, rock candy, figgy pudding, flan, crème brulee, malted barley, raspberries, pomegranate, toasted biscuit bread, trail mix, berry granola bar, strawberry shortcake, Mochi Sakura cakes, Raspberry Marzipan, bananas and clove spice and burnt sugars.

Aftertaste:
Lots of dark fruits, caramels, flan, dark candi sugars, bananas, honey, orange preserves toffee, fig pudding and flan. No alcohol in the taste, Rich dark honey colored full body, silky, smooth, creamy and rich mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
Time has done this beer some amazing miracles. I was really blown away by how this beer was. I never tasted it back then to compare how it has age but what I have here is something that I would like to pour over some ice cream. Super damn complex and malty with come sugars that go in different directions of sweet. Not cloying but just in variety. Not sure if I can find this again but if I did, I would get several of these!

Anime Corner:
Seras Victoria and Sir Integral Wingates Hellsing from Hellsing were used in this beer pairing to pair with the burning hot granite which was used in the wort to super caramelize the beer and the collabotation. Essentially, the extreme temperatures are synonymous to the fires of hell. Also, as the wort becomes caramel and the color of the brew becomes blood red it looks like some of the colors of the artwork and the evil look of Seras as well. Seras would be like the Bruery and Taps is Integral. Combining both to come up with this masterpiece.

Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/456345-724×996-hellsing-alucard+%28hellsing%29-victoria+seras-integra+wingates+hellsing-walter+c.+dornez-junshi+%28junbox%29.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/415144-1530×2970-hellsing-victoria+seras-orika+nekoi-single-tall+image-short+hair.png
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/162945-1920×1200-hellsing-victoria+seras-single-highres-wide+image-blonde+hair.jpg

Juggling Walruses by The Bruery Terreux

February 3, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged aged in Bourbon Barrels, Aisha Clan-Clan, american oak barrels, American Wild Ale, black currants, Bruery, Juggling Walruses, Outlaw Star, Tart of Darkness, The Bruery, The Bruery Terreux | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.35/6

Juggling Walruses by The Bruery Terreux is a 10% ABV American Wild Ale 34% aged in Bourbon Barrels, 66% Aged in oak barrels with Black Currants.

Label:
Mysterious – Elaborate – Laborious

Commercial Description:
There were a lot of balls in play. And heavy lifting. You see, in relatively short order, Bruery Terreux had become quite robust, especially since the build out and launch on April 22, 2015. We had amassed a substantial amount of filled barrels, from seasonal releases, one-time treats and cherished smaller batch experiments. The art of the blend beckoned, and we had our pick of the litter (or would that be herd?) For such a mysterious beer that became known around the office as Juggling Walruses, Tart of Darkness was the perfect place to begin, making up the highest percentage of contributing barrels. But it wasn’t just Tart of Darkness as you’ve come to know it. About two-thirds of the barrels were wine barrel-aged Tart of Darkness; and the other third of the oak barrels from the sour stout were particularly young. Black currants were added to all these barrels, introducing a less familiar fruit to our lineup, with a darker hue and new nuances to the sour beer flavor profile.

When blended with the other oak barrel and bourbon barrel-aged beers that were carefully selected for this blend, Juggling Walruses exhibits dark fruits, roast and char on the nose, with vinous notes and oaky characteristics weaving through flavors reminiscent of midnight foraging for berries in the forest.

==Introduction==

Released to the Bruery’s Reserve and Hoarders Society, this brew is a Cuvee of different aged ales. I think the reference to the Juggling Walruses came from the fact that they had to move so many barrels around. The barrels themselves do kind of look like big walruses so with moving the barrels around are like them trying to juggle the walruses. Good Game there Bruery. Anyways, the fact that this is a sour and a bourbon barrel aged is really intriguing as there are not that many out there that are like this, except ones like Burbonic Plague which was similar. These unique beers truly show some of the best a brewery has to offer. Cheers!

Aromas:
Grape Wine notes, Milk Chocolate, Dark chocolate, dark fruit plums, figs raisins, boysenberries, Concorde grape skins, marshmallows, dark chocolate, port wine, chardonnay, raspberry liqueur, anise, hibiscus flowers, Black Currant Yogurt, Dark cherry yogurt, brown sugar and coffee notes.

Flavors:
Tart Concorde grape skins, coconut hints, oak, vanilla, caramel, bourbon, toffee, molasses, Dark fruit plums, figs raisins, boysenberries, marshmallows, smores, pecan pie, Black Currant Yogurt, Dark cherry yogurt, currant cheesecake, Milk Chocolate, Dark chocolate, port wine, wine grapes, chardonnay, raspberry liqueur, anise, hibiscus flowers, biscuit bread, coffee notes, mocha, toasted buttery bread with currant spread.

Aftertaste:
Super dark fruit medley and berries, oak, bourbon hints, rich wine notes, and funky dry finish. No alcohol in the taste despite this being 10% ABV. Dark Brown Full body, silky, smooth and effervescent mouthfeel with moderate drinkability.

Overall:
An exceptional sour. The balance of the malty bourbon and the wine sour and fruity notes work so damn well. This is an example of the way my favorite sours go. Sweet and sours. People that don’t like sours but love strong beers will get a kick out of this one. With so much going, I can see why the Bruery spent the time composing this Cuvee together. Highly Recommended.

Anime Corner:
Aisha Clan Clan from Outlaw Star was used in this pairing since I wanted to use her for a beer review for a while now but especially a Bruery one. The reasoning behind this one was based on the colors of the label but also the aspect of juggling and needing strength to carry these barrels around. Kind of the way they describe it as Juggling Walruses. Aisha also represents the colors and complexity of the beer.

Sources:
http://orig08.deviantart.net/38e6/f/2007/228/a/6/aisha_clan_clan__colors__by_ultranic_comics.jpg
http://img07.deviantart.net/8976/i/2013/248/9/8/aisha_ctarl_ctarl__clan_clan__by_jaldridge1-d6l3y51.jpg

Bourbon Barrel Aged 7 Swans-A-Swimming by The Bruery

February 3, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged 7 Swans A Swimming, Abbey Ale Quadrupel, aged in Bourbon Barrels, Belgian Abbey Quadrupel, Belgian Quad, Belgian Quadruple, Bourbon Barrel Aged, brown sugar, christmas beer, dark chocolate, Dulce de leche, Hatsune Miku, Luka Megurine, pecan pie, Raspberries, Swans A Swimming, The Bruery, Twelve Beers of Christmas, Twelve days of Christmas, Twelve Days of Christmas series, vocaloid, WÆS HÆIL | Leave a comment

Rating: 5.75/6

Bourbon Barrel Aged 7 Swans-A-Swimming by The Bruery is an 11% ABV Belgian Quadruple aged in Bourbon Barrels.

Label:
WÆS HÆIL!

The Seventh Verse of Our Twelve Days of Christmas series of beers showcases the rich, malty character of a Belgian-style Quadrupel. Happy Holidays.

Bourbon Barrel Aged 7 Swans-A-Swimming is suitable for aging up to 5 years (soon after the release of 12 Drummers Drumming) when cellared properly.

==Introduction==

This special release of the 7 Swans-A-Swimming was released to the Reserve and Hoarders Society. Essentially, they release a barrel aged version of their previous year’s Christmas ale and release it in the current year. To get this, you will have to trade or find a place to get it online. Mainly a collectibles page. While the original was awesome, now a barrel aged version sounds like it can take it to the next level. The way stuff goes for my favorite style, the Belgian Dark Strong and Quads but also the way it goes with barrel aged beers, they sure elevate things to the next level. So let’s see if that is true, cheers!

Aromas:
Vanilla, Oak, Bourbon notes, dark fruits like raisins, figs, dates, plums, dark cherries, currants, blueberries, Dulce de leche caramel, marshmallows, anise, molasses, licorice, rock candy, candi sugar, Rhubarb pie, toasted coconut, macaroons, brown sugar, port wine, bananas, clove spice.

Flavors:
Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits like raisins, figs, dates, plums, dark cherries, currants, blueberries, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, anise, molasses, licorice, rock candy, dark candi sugar, rocky road ice cream, fruit cake, brown sugar, bananas, clove spice, raspberry cobbler, vanilla, all spice, ginger bread cookies, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, pecan pie, Rhubarb ice cream, nutmeg, hazelnut nectar, toasted coconut, macaroons, rye bread, port wine and crème brulee

Aftertaste:
Lots of dark fruit, caramel, spices, dulce de leche, fruit cake, bourbon, oak, pecan pie, hazel nut, marshmallows and coconut hints. No alcohol in the taste, Brown to crimson medium to full body, smooth to silky mouthfeel yet a sipping drinkability.

Overall:
Definitely more exceptional than the original. This was expected but after trying it, I knew for sure this was the case. Lots more complex flavors stand out with the aging of the bourbon. More Dark fruit and delicious pecan pie and coconut from the few I had mentioned before. If you do happen to get it, I am sure you will enjoy it. Cheers!

Anime Corner:
Hatsune Miku and the Vocaloid Team was used in this pairing as I wanted to do 7 characters but also in the sense of swimming, they definitely are swimming in a sea of chaos as they seem to be on the hunt for something important but also trying to survive and keep their heads afloat. Some dangers present themselves nearby. May not be Christmas like but the purpose of this beer for Christmas is to bring people together and it seems like 7 characters together is just the trick to do it. Together they will survive another day. The flavor complexities of the beer, the colors of the labels and the aspect of staying together like a flock of swans are surely displayed in this pairing.

Sources:
http://img07.deviantart.net/e14c/i/2015/044/4/5/_fanart_evillious_chronicles_by_doblemjwn-d8hsg0d.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Vocaloid.full.1881300.jpg

Rice & Beans by The Bruery

February 1, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Belgian Blonde, Cinnamon, Coffee Beans, Horchata, Korra, Legend of Korra, Or Xata, OrXata, Portola Coffee Lab, Rice, Rice & Beans, Rice and Beans, The Bruery, vanilla beans | Leave a comment

Rating: 6/6

Rice & Beans by The Bruery is a 7.1% ABV Belgian Blonde ale brewed with Rice, Cinnamon, Vanilla beans and Portola Coffee beans.

==Introduction==
Essentially, this is Or Xata (Horchata) aged Coffee Beans. The thought really didn’t cross my mind how well this would work. In fact this seems unheard of to take an already awesome drink and add coffee, although the idea is very intriguing. I first had this one at the Bruery and lucky for me, since I loved the original Or Xata, I really loved this one too and they had this on growler fill. So I went ahead and took some home and brought it to the site. Now we take a look at this one to see how good it is in comparison to the regular Or Xata. From what I found, it was damn amazing and really hope it is released in bottles in the future.

Aromas:
Cinnamon, Coffee, milk chocolate, Danish cream, rice pudding, espresso, whipped cream frosting, Kahlua coffee liqueur, dulce de leche caramel, brown sugar, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, Mochi ball ice cream cane sugar, steamed milk, cookie dough ice cream, crème brulee, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint hints, toffee, and churros.

Flavors:
Fancy Java coffee, coffee cake, mocha, milk chocolate, cinnamon, Danish cream, rice pudding, waffle cone, liquid churros, whipped cream frosting, Kahlua coffee liqueur, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, pan dulce, leche nestle(sweetened condensed milk), coconut candy, clove spice, Danish cookies, cookie dough ice cream, crème brulee, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint hints, toffee, mango notes, milk sugar, nutmeg, fruit cake, brown sugar, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, Mochi ball ice cream cane sugar and steamed milk.

Aftertaste:
Coffee Cake, Java, mocha, milk chocolate, vanilla rice pudding, caramel, banana notes, coffee churros, champurrado maize and flan. No alcohol in the taste, honey colored light body, silky, smooth, creamy and refreshing mouth feel and is easy to drink.

Overall:
Damn exquisite dessert. This beer proves that you can combine ingredients that have not been combined before to make something new in a new experience of flavor or even improving on each that was not done before. Horchata and coffee never looked so good together but this proves that its possible and very delicious. Now the Bruery just has to release this in bottles and it will be a win win!

Anime Corner:
Korra from the Legend of Korra was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair something with the colors of Horchata and the coffee beans. While Korra is a blend of the elements like this beer is a Coffee and Horchata fusion, her fashion and similar to the indigenous which reminded me of where the drink of Horchata is popular and where the majority of the world’s coffee comes from, essentially Latin countries like Mexico and Columbia. Now I don’t know which variety of Portola Coffee was used in this beer since they range from different parts of the world but it is symbolic of the name as Rice and Beans but is something of indigenous origin. Heck I grew up on Rice and beans! Horchata as well. So I think as a subtle tribute, this pairing worked well.

Sources:
http://pre14.deviantart.net/8de2/th/pre/i/2012/215/7/7/korra_by_sakimichan-d59m55f.jpg

2016 Preservation Series Humulus Triple by The Bruery

January 31, 2016 by cloudx30 tagged Humulus Triple, IPL, One Punch Man, Preservation Series, Tatsumaki, The Bruery, Tornado, Triple India Pale Lager | Leave a comment

Rating: 4.85/5

2016 Preservation Series Humulus Triple by The Bruery is a 10% ABV Triple India Pale Lager.

Label:
Forget what you’ve heard about West Coast vs. East Coast. This is a hoppy beer on our terms and turf. Humulus TrIPLe is the most hop-forward beer to come out of The Bruery, with a citrus-laden aromatic hop bouquet that can be detected half a foot away. The mouthfeel is massive, showcasing fruity, resinous and dank hop flavors and a not-so-bitter end. Ideally served at 50oF (7oC) in a tulip or wine glass.

==Introduction==

Obtained this one in December from the Bruery Preservation Society. I think this is the Bruery’s first attempt at an actual IPL, especially a strong one. I have had many Belgian Pale Ales from them but they typically never make IPAs or IPLs as far as I know. Either way, going as far as making this a Triple IPL, which is unheard of either. If this does taste closer to an IPL or IPA instead of a Belgian Pale or Belgian IPA, then this would be not only the strongest one brewed but also their first. Let’s see if this one is worth getting, cheers!

Aromas:
Stone fruit peaches, cane sugar, slight grapefruit notes, lemon peel, pepper corns, lemon candy tangerines, floral notes, honey, pilsner biscuit bread, grassy, citrus , herbal, piney, dank and garlicky hops, sweetened condensed milk hints, honey suckle, toasted grains and tropical fruits like and honey dew melon, kiwis, papaya and cherry notes.

Flavors:
Rich grassy, citrus , herbal, piney, dank and garlicky hops, honey, pilsnery biscuit bread, tropical fruits like honey dew melon, kiwis, papaya, cherry notes, peppercorn, stone fruit peaches, cane sugar, slight grapefruit notes, lemon peel, lemon candy tangerines, floral notes like lavender, sugar cane, gummy bears, Danish cream, Sweetened condensed milk hints, honey suckle and toasted grains,

Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with some stone fruit notes, peppercorn, dank hops and mild tropical fruits linger. Slight booziness in the taste, clear straw and golden boy, crisp, rich, refreshing and creamy mouthfeel with a moderate drinkability.

Overall:
A very good lager and probably the strongest I’ve ever had. The Bruery really did a good job on this one and while the hops rule in this brew, I think since it is made possibly with their house lager strain, it does taste a bit Belgian-ish. Which is very welcome to me in my opinion but many hop purist may be swayed or intrigued by this. It doesn’t matter, do as I say and try to find this!

Anime Corner:
Tatsumaki/Tornado from One Punch Man was used in this pairing as she pairs well with the colors of the label and the hops used in this beer. Her strength is complemented by the high ABV, especially for being a lager which are usually light, light meaning small like her stature. Don’t mess with the short and powerful. The telekinesis? Oh well you see, this beer is mind blowing, just like her.

Sources:
http://orig02.deviantart.net/62ac/f/2015/350/a/9/tatsumaki_by_speeh-d9kdrf0.jpg
http://41.media.tumblr.com/6a1ad71c1ec6b927ea7c4c8b246a34de/tumblr_nzk9j5nZOU1qla6e4o1_1280.jpg