Rating: 6/6
(PCH) Pale Chocolate Heaven by Santa Monica Brew Works is a 6% American Porter
A modern interpretation that replaces traditional ingredients of a porter with generous portions of cacao nibs, vanilla beans, and milk sugar resulting in a complex memorable beer
Pancho pantera chocomil! This is amazing choco malty millshake
Rating: 5/5
Peanut Butter Victory at Sea by Ballast Point Brewing Company is a 10% ABV Imperial Porter brewed with peanut butter, coffee and vanilla.
This version is without the chocolate – just Peanut Butter.
Wave ever it is I think I sea
🌊.. Becomes a tootsie roll
🍫 to me.. Lol that and peanut butter
Rating: 6/6
Bruers’ Barrel-Aged Zesty Mounds by The Bruery is a 13.6% ABV Belgian Dark Ale brewed with Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Coconut and orange zest aged in bourbon barrels.
#BABEERDAY
Barrel-aged Beer Day is our staff’s day for premiering flavors that cannot be achieved outside of the art of the blend or by any one beer. This staff-winning blend, created by Jennifer Anderson, Conner Coghill, Adam Funderberg, Jeff Scott, Andrew Stretch and Patrick Traster, showcases mounds of candy bar-esque flavors, with vanilla, coconut, cacao nibs from TCHO and orange zest folded into an exclusive fusion of some of our darkest, richest and most malt-forward bourbon barrel-aged beers.
Orangey chocolate almond joys!!
Rating: 7/7
2017 Rue D’Floyd Collaboration by Three/3 Floyds and The Bruery is a 14.4% ABV Imperial Porter aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cherries and Vanilla Beans Added.
Label:
A Collaboration with our friends at the Bruery. An invigorating ale aged in Bourbon barrels with Cherries and Vanilla Beans Added.
==Introduction==
I finally got my hands on the Three Floyds edition of one of my all time rare favorites, the Rue D’Floyd. A collaboration from the unthinkable coming together to create something out of this world. The original from the Bruery is the one I got a chance to try in 2014 and finally again in 2017. It was a beer that many loved but people thought it would have a problem aging. Even so, The beer proved to last the times. I cannot say the same about the Floyd D’rue since that one was not rereleased since 2014. Nevertheless, I never got a chance to try Three Floyds version of the same beer. In this iteration, it looks like they dropped the coffee and that is why Dark Matter is not involved. Will this still stand the test like the one I had from the Bruery? Well, let’s find out and take a crazy journey into the unknown.
Aromas:
Lots of dark fruits, port wine, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, roasted barley, hazelnut nectar, vanilla, bourbon, oak, banana sudae, Chambord Raspberries, sweetened condensed milk, roasted barley notes, coffee notes, burnt sugar, oatmeal cookies, almond, fruit cake, chocolate turtles, funky grape notes, tobacco and leather.
Flavors:
Super rich tart cherries, dark cherries, tart wine must, dark fruit currants, raisins, blue berries, raspberries, pomegranate, bourbon, marshmallows, nutella, hazelnut nectar, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut, burnt sugar, molasses, marzipan, mazapan, walnuts, prailines, cherry cordials, pecan pie, port wine, wine grapes, Chambord Raspberries, sweetened condensed milk, roasted barley notes, coffee notes, tiramasu, Khalua coffee liqueur hints, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, fudge chocolate, cherry chocolate cake, mocha, banana cream pie, Banana sundae, cinnamon, crème brulee, white chocolate, oatmeal, tobacco, leather, rye bread, chocolate turtles, chocolate mousse and cherry cheese cake.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with Dark cherries, oak, bourbon, dark chocolate, cherry cordials, raspberries, tart wine grapes, Nutella, vanilla, caramel, mocha, pecan pie and banana split cherry sundae. No alcohol here or anywhere despite the ABV. Pitch black and abysmal body. Very smooth, mildly chewey, velvety, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel. Sipping drinkability and definitely meant to be enjoyed.
Overall:
This beer reminds me of the Perennial and Fremont Barrel aged Unicorn tears but if you made it slightly more tart. I cannot say if the tart was due to its aging or if this really was what they were going for. So why did I give it a 7? Cuz fuck it that’s why! No but seriously, this semi sweet semi tart complexity gives this beer some crazy appealingness to it. For those that enjoy the various spectrum of beers should definitely have this one too. Especially the Bruery one!
Anime Corner:
Ramona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim VS. The World and welcoming back, Haruko Haruhara from Fooly Cooly/FLCL were brought in this pairing because they are 2 sides of the same coin. So Ramona’s aesthetics similarly complements Haruko’s and since I used Haruko for the Bruery version, Ramona is the Three Floyds version. East Meets West essentially, Manga Vs. Comics, Ying and Yang so to speak. 2 versions of the same beer created by both brewers. In this iteration though, the aspect of Ramona having so many girlfriends and having some personal issues reflect that of Haruko’s very animated and out there personality. Just like this beer is the tart, the other is more sweet, both insane in the head and who wouldn’t want to hook up with these babes. However, they are dangerous as fuck!
Bruery Version: https://animebeers.com/2017/01/16/2017-rue-dfloyd-collaboration-between-3three-floyds-dark-matter-coffee-and-the-bruery/
Rating: 6/6
2017 Oak-Aged Vanilla World Wide Stout by Dogfish Head is a 16% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Vanilla beans and aged in oak.
Label:
Stout aged in oak on vanilla beans
Commercial Description:
Brewed with a ridiculous amount of barley, we’ve now taken this Dogfish Head classic and aged it on oak with real vanilla beans! With a little tender love and care we foster this beer from smooth, sweet wort into the big, bad blackend stout it always longed to be. Its bold, port-like complexity goes great with (or as) dessert.
==Introduction==
Back in 2012, along with 120 minute IPA and Fort were some of the most strongest beers I have ever had. At the time, super strong beers were hard to come by and these 3 beers were insane to find. So much so, that I had not brought them back for a review until this year. The original World Wide Stout is still a miss for me and I have not found it again in bottle form. So when I saw the made a vanilla oak aged one, I definitely had to bring it to the site. While I have enjoyed many vanilla stouts and even spirit aged vanilla beers, I have not had a chance to try an original like this that was aged on vanilla and oak. Especially for that 16% ABV which at the time, the original, was 18%!Let’s have a go at this monster and see if you should seed out this special treasure, cheers!
Aromas:
Rich marshmallow, chocolate smores, fruit cake, oak, roasted coffee, dark chocolate, dark fruits, rum hints, toasted coconut, pecan pie, molasses, mint, Irish cream, Danish cream, flan, bananas foster, hazelnut nectar, and banana sundae.
Flavors:
Super rich vanilla, oak, smokey hints, roasted barley, dulce de leche caramel, flan, sweetened condensed milk, pecan ice cream, tiramasu, mocha, specialy coffee, hazelnut nectar, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgian chocolate, German chocolate, Bakers chocolate, banana sundae, cookie dough ice cream, Irish cream, Danish cream, chocolate mousee, pecan pie, dark frui raisins, figs, plums, dark cherries, raspberry Chambord, blueberry notes, marshmallow smores, rocky road ice cream, bourbon hints, rum notes, toasted coconut, molasses, cinnamon, burnt sugar, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, Bananas foster, grilled plantains in powdered sugar over with raspberry syrup and crème brulee.
Aftertaste:
Finishing up with complex chocolate, banana sundae, vanilla, fruit cake, custards, mocha, dark fruit, caramels, crème brulee, flan, marshmallow, coconut, oak, burnt sugar and rum notes. Despite the 16% ABV, it is hard to find the alcohol. I am not even sure why, I should sense some type of slight booziness but all I taste is complex flavors. Pitch dark black full body, creamy, velvety, smooth and rich chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Fucking exceptional! It was only in March 2017 that I had tried the original on tap by a lucky find and now this?!?! Well this blows everything into high gear! Lots of rich oak, vanilla and so much complexity that even at the high level of ABV content, it sure is damn hard to see where the alcohol went to. Anyways, if you love specialty stouts, I highly recommend this one, if you can find it!
Anime Corner:
Cryska Bachernowa from the Muv-Luv Alternative Total Eclipse series was used in the original World Wide Stout when I first tried it years ago. So since I could not find another WWS to bring to the site, I settled with bringing her again to this beer and showcasing some colors what would fit with the original (and apparently, the new label as well) with the yellow. This is not a Russian stout but the extra roastiness and body of the beer makes it so and so aside from the colors, she is also Russian to boot! So there is much to complement with this type of pairing for sure!
Rating: 5/5
Homebrew Project #33 6 To Midnight Coffee & Cream by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 10% ABV Imperial Cream Ale brewed with Blood Lord Coffee Beans by Dark Matter Coffee, Vanilla Beans and Lactose.
Homebrewed for my friends Cesar Molina & Jeanette De La Luz wedding on 9/3/2017.
The special project was brewed in collaboration with my friend Oscar Pacheco and Cesar Molina with an inspiration to the Coffee and Cream Ale we had tried on our many trips to the Tijuana B.C. Craft Beer Scene in Mexico. For the special occasion of his wedding, Julio/Cesar entrusted me to come up with an original recipe that would be a cream ale with coffee similar the Coffee and Cream. The recipe was something I had not brewed before and would become one that was created by us. Starting with an Imperial Cream Ale recipe, I started by envisioning what would be the cream side or additional cream. That’s when I brought up the lactose addition. Vanilla would add an enticing sweetness which was provided by Oscar in which we aged in Maker’s Mark 46 Bourbon for a month before added to the finished product. We also went through a collection of many of my favorite Dark Matter Coffee beans like the Big Hugs and Unicorn Blood Coffees until Julio decided to use the Blood Lord coffee. It was the same coffee they made by aging the beans in Barrels that once contained 3 Floyds Dark Lord Imperial Stout. The very same bourbon barrel aged coffee I used in my previous iteration (Home brew Project #29 SangriLeche Chapter: 2 – Hey You, Wanna Buy Some ChocoW00tCherries?!!?) which used w00tstout as the inspiration.
Moving on, the beer was a major success showcasing many of the rich flavors from the original Coffee and Cream Ale, but at a higher ABV and more flavor intense profile ranging from Coffee, Vanilla, sugar cream, oak notes, stone fruit, dark fruits, creme brulee, flan, tiramsu and much much more. The beer was such as hit that it was the first to run out at the wedding despite being the higher in alcohol content. It was definitely a victorious moment in homebrewing collaboration for me and my friends and something that I’m sure Julio and Janette will never forget. Surely though, I will have to brew it again!
Rating: 7/7
White Chocolate With Cherries by The Bruery is a 14.2% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans and Tart Cherries.
Label:
Take a Dip
==Introduction==
Holllyyyy shit! This beer came from left field. Especially since the already awesome White Chocolate was elevated to a new mastery with Cherries! I got a chance to try this one on tap when they had it at a Reserve Society night. The beer is exclusive to Hoarders and Reserve at the moment but slowly but surely, I am sure we will see it soon to preserve. It will be a while before the public sees it but regardless, you heard it here, let’s see how this upgrade is, cheers!
Aromas:
Super white chocolate cherry cordials, tart cherries, rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel,Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!
Flavors:
Super rich Chocolate Cherries, dark cherry yogurt, vanilla cherries, white chocolate covered cherry cordials, White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, strawberry flan, pomegranates, raspberry chambord, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!
Aftertaste:
Lingering supreme dark, tart and sweet cherries and sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice, Chocolate cherry cordials and flan. No alcohol in the taste despite the 14.2% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.
Overall:
Fucking…. Ridiculous!!! White Choco Cherry Cordials in liquid form. The original White Chocolate was already beyond the beyond but now with cherries, its definitely pure sweet dessert bliss. I love cherry chocolate beers but a white chocolate cherry beer is something like matter meets antimatter and the gates of sweet flavor oblivion open up. A damn bucket lister no doubt! Plug it into my veins and you need to plug it into your as well.
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno and Sakura Haruno from Naruto were the best pairing for this beer. Temari for the original White Chocolate base beer and Sakura for the Cherries used in many of the Cherry cordial beers I have had before with the Bruery. So a beer that blends Temari, one of my favorite anime character with Sakura, a secondary favorite of the Naruto show, this blend was well complemented in my mind.
Rating: 6/6
2017 Beer Camp Across the World Raspberry Sundae Ale collaboration with Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and The Bruery is an 8%ABV Golden Ale brewed with raspberries, cocoa nibs, vanilla beans and lactose.
Description:
Together we’re brewing a riff on the flavors of the classic raspberry ice cream sundae. This beer features raspberry, cocoa and vanilla, in addition to lactose (an unfermentable sugar) that adds a richness and a sweetness, helping to blend and meld the flavors of this ultra-complex beer together. It’s been a true pleasure to work with artists at The Bruery using ingredients and techniques outside of our normal wheelhouse.
Like the Hoarders Cuvee 2016 but light. Major raspberry cream, banana notes and white chocolate. Why is this only made once?!?! Make More!! Needless to say, there needs to be more of this for sure. Great awesome Red Velvet cream beer with Banana and chocolate making it a lot like a banana split.
Rating: 5.5/6
2017 Imperial Biscotti Break by Evil Twin Brewing is an 11.5% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with Coffee, Vanilla beans and almonds
Tiramasu, almond joy and sweet vanilla awesomeness…. Like cookies!
Rating: 5.5/6
2017 Peanut Butter Cup Porter by Karl Strauss brewing is a 5.6% ABV English Porter brewed with Peanut butter, cocoa nibs and vanilla beans.
Maaaggicccc cocoa krispies and Reeces pieces!
Original Review: https://animebeers.com/2014/10/06/peanut-butter-cup-porter-by-karl-strauss-brewing/
Rating: 6/6
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake by The Bruery is a 13.7% ABV Wheat Wine brewed with Strawberries, Lactose and vanilla beans aged in bourbon barrels.
==Introduction==
Gotta admit, the Bruery has been coming out with some of the craziest dessert and delicious experiments ever. Who would of thought that they would of made a strawberry shortcake beer!? Well, actually, it shouldn’t be surprising! At this point, the Bruery can literally make any type of dessert beer it seems and meant it to how it tastes. This was something that was released on tap only as far as I know but yes, it was one I was allowed to bring home to get a good analysis of. So let’s check it out, cheers!
Aromas:
Banana split, strawberries, cherries, biscuit bread, butterscotch, tres leches cake, Danish creak, dark fruits, sweetened condensed milk, Neapolitan ice cream, piloncillo sugar cone, dulce de leche caramel, milk chocolate, toffee, waffle cone, almond joy and toasted coconut.
Flavors:
Rich strawberry cheesecake, white chocolate, Strawberry shortcake, Tres Leches strawberry cake, Banana Split with Strawberries, Strawberry and banana yogurt, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, Cadbury caramel cream eggs, flan, crème brulee, Danish cream, cookie dough ice cream, vanilla, sugar cookies, sweetened condensed milk, strawberry pound cake, Neapolitan ice cream, Strawberries and cream, Raspberries, pomegranates, dark fruit currants, blueberries, dragon fruit, cherries, marzipan, chocolate truffles, toasted coconut, almond joy, cotton candy and red velvet cake.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with rich strawberries, vanilla, cheesecake, cherry, yogurt, marzipan, white chocolate, flan, bananas and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, super hazy murky peach colored full body, smooth, creamy, refreshing and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Exceptional! Another awesome dessert that feels like liquefying a strawberry shortcake and drinking it. Of course it is amazing and since it uses White Oak as its base, its works super awesomely. In fact, the base was also used in White Chocolate so its no wonder that it has application in making other amazing beers. I absolutely love it. If you get a chance to have this on tap, check it out, I highly recommend it!
Anime Corner:
Junko Enoshima from Danganronpa was chosen in this pairing as I was going for something that would fit with pink strawberry cheesecake. While I already used Sakura Haruno with different Bruery beers as they relate to cherries, I wanted to go with another character that works with this pairing and that is where Junko came in. While I do not know much of the story, I do know that she made the perfect pairing in this beer especially over the flavors and ingredients of this beer.
Sources:
http://pic.element3ds.com/forum/201510/19/201623yh2a29ziuyvmmfvv.jpg
http://tp.lingyu.me/bz/uploads/2016/09/www.lingyu.me_20160902150656167.jpg
http://s2.narvii.com/image/fc42tftbsczwemh3tou4fejuiasje5ls_hq.jpg
Rating: 6/6
Cookies and Dreams collaboration by The Bruery and Abnormal Beer Co is a 10.4% ABV Cookie Inspired Imperial Stout brewed with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
==Introduction==
I had originally tried this one at the Bruery’s 9th anniversary event and was recently given the opportunity to bring this one to the site. This one is inspired by Cookies and Cream ice cream. Essentially, the Oreo cookies and cream or at least what I believe it to be. It doesn’t use Black Tuesday but an original stout recipe brewed in the collaboration for this beer. I have not tried anything from Abnormal before so this would count. Also, the fact that this is an oreo based beer is something that I really really wanted to share. So let’s have at it, cheers!
Aromas:
Banana split, cookies and cream, vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, dark fruits, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, rocky road ice cream, coconut, anise, mocha ice cream, cherries, fruit cake, crème brulee, burnt sugar and sweetened condensed milk.
Flavors:
Chocolate chip cookies, Cookies and cream, oreos, vanilla, Danish cream, Irish cream, mocha coffee, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German chocolate, cocoa powder, dark fruit raisins, currants, prunes, dark cherries, pomegranates, banana hints, anise, mint chocolate chip, white chocolate, cookie dough ice cream, rocky road ice cream, chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche caramel, licorice notes, jamoca ice cream, raspberry cordials, toffee, crème brulee, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, cherry marzipan and fruit cake
Aftertaste:
Finishing rich with chocolate cookie dough flavors, vanilla, dark fruits, dark chocolate, caramel, fruit cake, cookies and cream, oreos, banana and mint chocolate chips. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Pitch black body, smooth, creamy, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
An amazing beer! Lot’s of chocolate, oreo cookie and cream flavors. It doesn’t stop there though, there are so many flavors all over making this an overall cookies and cream dessert. The name is damn appropriate too. I have no idea if they mashed actual cookies in this but it sure feels like it. They gotta release this in bottles! If you have a chance to try it at the Bruery, definitely get it!
Anime Corner:
Harley Quinn from DC comics’ Batman series was chosen to represent the beer in the sense that the colors and flavors are sweet and insane! Essentially, with the black and white colors of the original Harley Quinn along side with the complex flavors of the Suicide Squad Harley, it make sense. Especially since you have the 2 Harleys representing the 2 breweries. It was kind of a stretch but in general, since I haven’t done a pairing with Harley, I felt this would be the right one.
Sources:
https://s14.favim.com/610/160815/30-seconds-to-mars-fanart-harley-quinn-jared-leto-Favim.com-4637984.jpeg
https://c3.patreon.com/2/patreon-posts/sQZDpybBB2BYZlQh1xMkRJCsL6xec4T53MlluNchj2d9xl446mYH8ivIVXcwVFOf.jpeg?t=1497744000&w=1600&v=FjmpfL–LVhAlnemfMjEPYrJe0fEj7WuT0LkIm485aA%3D
https://wallpapers.wallhaven.cc/wallpapers/full/wallhaven-411508.jpg
Rating: 6/6
2017 Tart of Darkness with Raspberry and Cacao by The Bruery Terreux is a 7.1% ABV American Sour Stout aged in oak with Raspberries, Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
VELVETY – Chocolatey – Ripe
==Introduction==
Released to Reserve and Preservation societies, the Bruery brings a new variant of the Tart of Darkness brew. Since the release of the original, this Sour Stout has been very good on its own but the variants seem elevated to new flavor heights. Like when they released the Cherry and vanilla one, it was way better than the original. While I personally loved the Jolly Pumpkin’s Sour Stout Madrugada Obscura more than the original Tart of Darkness, the variants from the Bruery I like those as much or a little more. Now with cacao and raspberries, this new variant seems very promising, especially since I’m a nut for raspberries. Let’s have a look at this one, cheers!
Aromas:
Earthy notes, musty sour funk, Chambord Raspberry Liqueur, dark chocolate, wine grapes, vanilla, dark fruits, milk chocolate, oak, pecan pie, coffee, flan, rye bread, piloncillo sugar cone, fruit cake, stone fruit apricots, plums and sweetened condensed milk.
Flavors:
Chocolate Raspberry Cordials, Tart wine grapes, Chocolate wine, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, raspberries, dark cherries, pomegranates, stone fruit apricots, mango, vanilla, oak, fruit cake, raspberry pie, pecan pie, coffee, flan, earthy notes, musty sour funk, pepper notes, raspberry cheesecake, milk chocolate, rich dark chocolate, bakers chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German chocolate, Sweetened condensed milk, raspberry yogurt, toasted coconut mild mocha notes, rocky road ice cream notes, Chambord Raspberry Liqueur, mint, rye bread and sour green grapes.
Aftertaste:
Finishing dry but with some very nice lingering flavors of tart wine grapes, oak, raspberry yogurt, vanilla, rich dark chocolate lingering, and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste, murky dark crimson full body, soft, smooth and creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A supreme sour of sorts. Chocolatey raspberry cordials if they were dipped in wine with some very nice tart fruit notes. Very complex and seems to cover the palates of those that love sweets and sour beers. It is not too sour and not too sweet and the twilight road presented is one full of amazement. I highly recommend this one!
Anime Corner:
Dementia/Demencia from the Villanous series created in Mexico, was chosen for this pairing as the aspect of Tart of Darkness can also be seen in the association of evil organization such as that in the series. The fact that she is a lovable and sweet character with her ruby red raspberry hair, she seemed liked the right fit for this beer.
Sources:
http://img03.deviantart.net/efa9/i/2017/138/9/d/villainous_by_binariox-db9nzha.jpg
http://68.media.tumblr.com/0ee4a73a3f32e2346968203fe1d5b1fe/tumblr_oqmru99YY01ufuhr9o1_500.jpg
http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/001/258/109/19f.png
http://orig14.deviantart.net/88b2/f/2017/140/e/5/render_demencia_by_asrielju-db9uw71.png
http://img11.deviantart.net/976b/i/2017/145/c/b/dementia___villainous_fanart_by_oppaihobby-dbafegm.jpg
http://orig01.deviantart.net/cda9/f/2017/141/3/4/dementia_by_ta_na-db9yobu.png
https://www.forosperu.net/galeria/demencia.87291/full?d=1495753736
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAnNdqPWAAAv08I.jpg
Rating: 6/6
Share This O.C. by The Bruery is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout with Orange zest, Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
LEND A HAND
We donate $1 for each bottle we produce in our Share This series. This orange chocolate release supports the mission of Food Forward which donates fresh produce to hunger relief agencies in Southern California, including Orange County.
Share This is a series of beer that spotlights unique ingredients and important causes. This rich imperial stout is inspired by orange and chocolate flavors. It’s a profile we’re quite fond of, given the abundance of orange trees in our own backyard. Food Forward takes one step further – reaching over 100, 000 people a month with recovered fresh produce.
==Introduction==
The 3rd beer in the Share This series brings some local ingredients of Southern California to the flavors of an awesome stout. The previous beers in this series have been amazing and I can only hope the next one is just as awesome or better. The best thing about this series is that with everyone that is purchased, you are donating for a good cause and so don’t just take it from me but find out how these beers are and know you are helping people in need. Let’s take a look and see how this one is, cheers!
Aromas:
Chocolate Orange creamsicle, Orange Mocha, graham crackers, Danish cream, Irish cream, peach cobbler, tres leches/3 milks cake, marshmallows, chocolate smores, orange sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, orange mint, chocolate milk shake, dark chocolate and dark fruits.
Flavors:
Rich Chocolate and Orange creamsicle, tangerines, candied orange hints, fruity pebbles, dulde de leche caramel, flan, orange preserves, peach preserve notes, peach cobbler, tres leches/3 milks cake, egg nog, orange chocolate milk shake, Orange Bang, cinnamon, coriander spice, orange tang, Danish cream, Irish cream, Orange Mocha, graham crackers, earthy hop notes, rye bread, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, marshmallows, chocolate smores, orange sweetened condensed milk, Chocolate and Baileys Irish cream, hazelnut nectar, peppermint york patty, tapioca pudding, orange cheese cake, anise, molasses, orange mint and cocoa powder.
Aftertaste:
Finish with rich flavor of Chocolate Orange cordials, dark chocolate, caramel, marshmallow smores, chocolate orange bundt cake, hazelnut caramel and vanilla sweetness. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, Dark Full body, creamy, smooth, velvety and chewy mouthfeel along with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Pure Chocolate Orange Creamsicle bliss. This beer is insane! A true chocolate and orange cordial type of dessert. While the main factor for the rating is that they got this sweet and yet balanced beer to be the way a dessert is, but also managed to break out some great complexity as well. You can’t even taste that alcohol despite it being so high and yet it drinks so damn smooth. As always, the Bruery making magic. This is a public release so make sure you get this one, I highly recommend it!
Anime Corner:
Quetzalcoatl from Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid was chosen in this pairing as I wanted to choose a character that would work with the colors of the label but also the colors of some of the ingredients. Sharing is caring and in some innuendoes ways counts too. I’ll leave that to your imagination.
Sources:
http://animeerogazo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/nizi_miss-kobayashis-dragon-maid-16.png
http://animeerogazo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/nizi_miss-kobayashis-dragon-maid-6-2.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4wqiNUWAAAV7aK.jpg
https://68.media.tumblr.com/8a1635d189f5f13524fb22c1c7e68071/tumblr_omqhy5RfY71s2qcrdo1_1280.png
Rating 6/6
Rating: 6.25/7
Home brew Project #29 SangriLeche Chapter: 2 – Hey You, Wanna Buy Some ChocoW00tCherries?!!? by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 14% ABV Imperial Milk Stout brewed with Blood Lord Bourbon Barrel Aged Espresso Coffee Beans, Dark Chocolate, Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Sweet Cherry Puree, Gold Syrup and Pecans Oak aged in Maker’s Mark 46 Bourbon.
Label:
SangriLeche, Chapter: 2 Hey You, Wanna Buy Some ChocoW00tCherries?!!?
Damn it all! This is what I get for listening to pink haired broads trying to sell me some goods off the streets. When people used to tell me not to take candy from strangers, I should have listened. Heck, you too! How the hell else you get a hold of this damn cursed bottle. I was but a pawn to this girl’s seductions. Trying to sell me a bottle of some magical cherries and now, I am stuck here. Going on these dumbass, fucking space adventures.
I heed you warning though friend, do not make the same mistake I made. Drinking this will only summon that cherry choco cordial selling girl with no remorse and you will be a slave to this like I have. Don’t say I didn’t warn ya! Don’t drink this BEER!
Imperial Milk Stout brewed with Blood Lord Bourbon Barrel Aged Espresso Coffee Beans, Dark Chocolate, Cacao Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Sweet Cherry Puree, Gold Syrup and Pecans Oak aged in Maker’s Mark 46 Bourbon.
==Introduction==
Project #29 was inspired by everything that is awesome! Beer, Anime, Video Games and anything that celebrates geekdom. For the longest time, I always wanted to make a beer similar to the Bruery and Three Floyds Collaboration: Rue D’Floyd. An Imperial Porter aged in bourbon barrels with Vanilla, Cherries and Coffee. Since the days of Project #6 Oblivixen’s “Sangri-Leche” Maelstrom, I knew I wanted to make return to that beer. A beer that took a lot of experimentation, effort and time to essentially become, my first attempt at barrel/oak aging a beer. It was such a damn hit that it paved way for some of my other oak aged brews which I was very fond of and so were many of my friends. The return of the Sangrileche, however, was going to be different. Essentially, as I pondered about beer and geeky stuff, I remember how awesome and geeky Stone’s W00tStout was.
When I had heard that Wil Wheaton was awesome enough to share the recipe, I thought awesome I wanna brew that beer too. Then I thought, wait a second, What if I borrow some ideas from that W00tStout recipe and create my own new recipe . Essentially, it would not be a Belgian Stout, but many of the Sangrileche elements would make a return. Not in the way I imagined but very damn close. Heck, I wanted to make a W00Stout/Rue D’Floyd hybrid. Since Sangrileche already carried the vanilla, cherries and coffee like it did with Rue D’Floyd, why not, pay tribute and make it similar to that using some W00tstout inspirations of Pecans in place of peanut butter and add more dark chocolate and some sweeter cherries. What really put the “Cherry” on this dessert was when I brought the unholy grail of the Bourbon Barrel Blood Lord Coffee into the mix. Dark Matter’s Coffee beans, Unicorn’s Blood Coffee (Which were also used in the original Sangri Leche) aged in bourbon barrels that had “Three Floyds – Dark Lord Imperial Stout”. Yes, this coffee had a limited run but it was worth it to create this madness of a beer that would soon be the second coming of BloodyMilk (SangriLeche). So with that and a special Maker’s Mark 46 Bourbon (Unfortunately I ran out of Dragon’s Milk Bourbon) which was referred to me by my friend Oscar, this beer was finally born.
W00h! That’s a mess, TL:DR. Essentially, it took me several months of aging but this beer made it just in time to bring it to the website and give my thoughts on my crazy creation. Why does it have so much game influences? Go Read or Listen to the “Ready Player One”, which is also narrated by, you guessed it, Wil MuddaFuckin’ Wheaton himself! Yes, that book has so many references to the 80’s and 90’s lore just like this beer has so much going on making it in my mind, one of the best video game beers and also one of the best home brews I have ever brewed to date. With that says, today marks my birthday so this is essentially a treat to myself and fans alike. Cheers and thank you for your support!!
Aromas:
Chocolate Cherry Cordials, Dark chocolate, earthy chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, Carlos V Mexican chocolate, oak, bourbon, vanilla, toffee, caramel, mocha coffee, dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, raspberries, pecan pie, flan, crème brulee, banana split sundae, rocky road ice cream, Khalua coffee notes, coconut hints, walnuts, Irish cream, chocolate cherry cake, milk sugar, chocolate port wine, Nutella chocolate, oatmeal cookies, anise, tobacco and leather.
Flavors:
Super Rich Dark Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, Carlos V Mexican chocolate, earthy chocolate, almost like a mole spice, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, Chocolate Mousse, Vanilla, Dulce de leche caramel, toffee, butterscotch, dark fruit raisins, currants, raspberries, blackberries, prunes, dark cherries, sweet cherries, port wine, Nutella chocolate, Chocolate Cherry Cordials, Banana split Sundae, whipped cream, marzipan, mazapan, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, walnuts, prailines, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, toasted coconut hints, flan, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa krispies, Kahlua coffee Liqueur, Irish cream notes, Cherry Chocolate cake, Tres Leches/ Three Milks cake, mocha, roasted coffee notes, fancy coffee notes, oak, bourbon, molasses, mint chocolate chip hints, oreo cookies and cream, raisin bread pudding, lactose milk sugar and chocolate cookie dough.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with Chocolates for days, Nutella, dark chocolates, Mexican chocolate, dark cherries, vanilla, caramel, earthy chocolate, oak, bourbon hints, mocha, pecan pie and banana split cherry sundae. For being my strongest beer to date at 14%, you can’t really any of the alcohol. The body is fully pitch black and abysmal like the previous iteration of Sangrileche. The mouthfeel is very smooth, not as chewey as the original sangrileche but velvety and syrupy. A major sipper for sure, but this brew was made to be sipped and taken with ease.
Overall:
Ridiculous. Really fucking ridiculous, oh did I mention, fucking ridiculous! While it is not as sweet as the original Sangrileche, its still a dessert though. Not cloying and very out there. The majority of the beer is like drinking chocolate syrup like some of the best choco vanilla barrel aged beers out there. The cherries really start to play when the beer warms up and more of the dark fruit flavors start to come out. While the beer does not have much head retention, it is expected at such a high 14% ABV. Now, the real question is, did I really succeed in making the ultimate hybrid geek beer. The answer is Yes and No. Yes because the flavors are similar to those on the Bruery and Three Floyds and W00tstout combined with some Dark Lord Imperial Stout. The No part really has to do with the fact that it is not those beers, its my own creation. It is something new but at the same time, it is a geek beer. I poured so much effort and fan splurging as I can possibly think of into this. Geekdoms are made by fans and Geek inspired home brews are made by fans as well. So yeah, it is a fucking Geek Beer in its own damn righr. A crazy one at that. Even so, as crazy as some of my other beer recipes have been in the past, this one truly takes the cake. Yes, how appropriate, cake for my birthday. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Haruko Haruhara from FLCL/Fooly Cooly and many video game characters were all chosen in this pairing because for being an insane and really out there beer, I needed to bring an anime character from one of the most beloved franchises who is all about rock and is a space psycho. You really have to think, how crazy this beer is with all its ingredients, colors, strength, retro name and geekiness. Yes, recipe base of W00tstout inspired darkness is the embodiment of pure Beer and Geeky media! While Krystal Fox from Star Fox was the original mascot for this beer, I paid tribute to her as you can see from the label. Yes, I could think of no one better.
Sources:
https://ugc.kn3.net/i/origin/http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/h476/santo969/501623.jpg?t=1298836348
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/5d/cb/5d/5dcb5ddbdf54b59cb498801cf17d272b.jpg
http://wallpapersonthe.net/wallpapers/l/haruko_haruharu_flcl_anime_vespa_haruko-8042.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I2yHaMXsWRs/WBU65zSeaMI/AAAAAAAADfI/jGUBAKYYpUsA2JD6ShTPtr76MBfEpIS6QCJoC/w426-h400/16%2B-%2B1
http://fanfics.frikitest.com/imagenes/foro/vD5hFVbG2taLxki.jpg
https://vamf.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/flcl-14.jpg
http://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.roosterteeth.com/uploads/images/2a699fb8-5fcb-433b-a439-2694a298c778/md/halo3paranod4b7cfec536a08.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/88/8d/03/888d035c3f1efdc54680b7d58c3868f5.jpg
Rating: 6/6
2017 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 13.8% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Encore:
https://animebeers.com/2016/10/14/2016-white-chocolate-by-the-bruery/
Rating: 6/6
Exorcism of Rachel Wall by Clown Shoes brewing is a 10.75% ABV Holy Smoked Imperial Stout aged in Rum Barrels with Tahitian Vanilla Beans added.
Label:
Unfortunately, there was another incident in front of Sunset Grill in Allston and this time the ghost Rachel Wall emerged from the wreckage. She was a true pirate, and the last woman to be hanged in Massachusetts, and we felt that a fitting remembrance would be to fill 14 rum barrels with Undead Party Crasher and add Tahitian vanilla beans. Rachel, we know you have fury from beyond the grave, but cut it out with the possessions please.
==Introduction==
What a great way to start the year off with a new entry in the ever growing spirit aged brews from Clown Shoes. While this one seems similar to the Hammer of the Holy, this one I do believe used a different Rum and specific vanilla beans making it a different beer overall. With the way the brews go for Clown Shoes, they are always amazing and above exceptional. I would expect no different from this one so let’s take a look and see how the spirit changes the undead party crasher as well as the use of different types of Vanilla beans. Cheers!
Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries, Rum, smoked malt, Oak, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallows, fudge Chocolate, dark Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, licorice, anise, stone fruit, peach, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, brown sugar, tropical notes of pineapple, and passion fruit.
Flavors:
Rich Fudge Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate mousse, dark fruit raisins, prunes,currants, blackberries, raspberries, dark cherries, vanilla, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, marshmallows, Rum, smoked malt, Oak, tropical notes of pineapple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, strawberry cheese cake, Danish cream, Irish cream, coffee cake, stone fruit, peach, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, macadamia nuts, brown sugar, Pancho Pantera Milk shake, licorice, anise and molasses.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with chocolate, dark fruit, rum, vanilla, caramel, sweetened condensed milk, stone fruit hints, tropical notes, coffee, milk shake notes and smokey oak. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Dark abyss full body, creamy, smooth velvety and semi chewy mouthfeel along with sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A definitely exceptional brew. I think the difference in the vanilla bean type used in this brew may have actually made things more complex. Maybe the rum, but it sure is an awesome brew. Like many of their barrel-aged beers, this one is not only complex but also even at the ABV, it is not boozy. It does not have any actual spirits but I am sure drinking enough of will definitely make you feel possessed. I highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Marceline The Vampire Queen from Adventure Time was used in this pairing as I wanted her to represent Rachel Wall as she possess the person in the story of the label. Marceline being undead and looking somewhat evil was something that I felt worked well with this pairing. Especially, since they used vampire slayer/undead party crasher for this one as the base beer, Marceline works well overall. The strength and flavors along with the colors of the label work well with Marceline as well.
Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/5346537207113925239.jpg?w=1600&v=qgPRYAwVdD0kW0apVrEiWNBxtT1v35kh-HZfFvxT8EE%3D
http://76.72.168.19/images/2016-01-03-798692.jpeg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/16/00/44/1600447faf11a1958204e3f033084704.jpg
http://blog-imgs-63.fc2.com/j/i/n/jingaidaisuki/4496177d6500_2497164B_028_thumb.png
Rating: 7/7
2017 Rue D’Floyd collaboration between 3/Three Floyds, Dark Matter Coffee and The Bruery is a 13.5% ABV Imperial Porter aged with Vanilla in Bourbon Barrels with Tart Cherries and Dark Matter Coffee.
Label:
DARK TUESDAY
This collaborative brew rises from the ashes in epic fashion, showcasing a heavy-handed display of barrel character, roastiness and dark fruit elements. It’s a testament to the spirit of continued experimentation
We regrouped with our friends at 3 Floyds to resurrect this imperial porter. Condemned to bourbon barrels for nearly a year, this one dark display of roasted malts, charred oak and blackened cherry character with notes of scorched baker’s chocolate. It’s pulled from the depths with sweet vanilla beans, tart cherries and Dark Matter Coffee, holding the palate prisoner and perpetuity.
==Introduction==
Released to Hoarders and Reserve Society alike, it has been years since the release of this beer. Since the issue they had with the quality of the initial release, they did not want to risk bad bottles back then which really turned people off from this beer. I remember when this first came out I got it to the site as soon as possible and the beer was great! It was so great I was upset I would not see it again. Thank the beer dark lords it is back. This beer is what I think many people really wanted from the longest time. A collaboration with Three Floyds of Indiana to use their Dark Lord making skills at creating a massive beer with the Black Tuesday lords at the The Bruery. They have come together once again to create this literal liquid chaos of sense engulfing darkness. Now all I have left to say is how it can compare to however my brain can remember from the original. The best part is that it will not go bad! So cheers and hope you can get one, I am recommending it right off the bat!
Aromas:
Rich Mocha Cherry Cordials, Roasted coffee, espresso, fancy coffee, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, kopi luwak coffee, Cherry Nutella, chocolate cherry cobbler, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, rocky road ice cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, fudge chocolate, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, prunes, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, cookies and cream, white chocolate, oatmeal, oak, bourbon, anise, tobacco, leather, cinnamon and port wine.
Flavors:
Super Rich Mocha Cherry Cordials, port wine, Raspberry Chambord, vanilla, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, German Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, flan, cinnamon, crème brulee, rocky road ice cream, toasted coconut, almond joy chocolate, cookies and cream, white chocolate, oatmeal, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, fudge chocolate, cherry chocolate cake, dark fruit raisins, currants, plums, prunes, molasses, anise, tobacco, leather, roasted coffee, espresso, kopi luwak coffee, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Bananas, hazelnut nectar, chocolate cherry cobbler, cherry nutella, Irish cream, Danish cream, pecan pie, Banana split chocolate cherry sundae and dulce de leche caramel.
Aftertaste:
Finishing rich mocha, dark chocolate, cherry cordial, bourbon, milk chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, pecan pie, banana split chocolate cherry sundae, oak, toasted coconut, rocky road ice cream
No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV, dark pitch black full body, smooth, creamy, chewy, velvety and syrupy mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.
Overall:
I almost forgot how delicious this beer was that when I finally had again it all came back to me. This is indeed, is really a bucket lister. No joke. I had really forgotten why I loved this beer so much until I brought to the site once again. It was so influential, that I am actually making a stout to mimic the insanity of this collaboration. This beer is literally Liquid Cherry Mocha. Like the Life is Like brew I had years ago, this one continues and continues. With this fresher batch, I hope you are able to find this one but definitely hope that the Bruery keeps releasing this one. A must GET!
Anime Corner:
Haruko Haruhara and Naota Nandaba from FLCL (Fooley Cooley) were used in this pairing to show case the colors of the label, the flavors, the collaboration, the ticking time bomb aspect and just the insane aspect that this collaboration brings. Aside from the colors of the label. Haruko represent the cherries and the coffee as well as the very dangerous aspect of the beer. The smoothness of the beer can be seen in the cuteness of her demeanor but don’t ever let that fool you. This woman is demented and insane. Cute on the outside, monster on the inside. Naota Nandaba, is the admirer which you can think of him providing the extra flavors as being the main character of the series. Now the ticking time bomb has to do with the short temper that Haruko has and the short time that these 2 have together. I won’t spoil the story, but c’mon, it is such a great series…. for only being 6 episodes long!! There, you have no excuse not to watch FLCL… now just like I said before… Go get this beer, find the show and watch it! You will be in for a ride!
Sources:
https://ugc.kn3.net/i/origin/http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/h476/santo969/501623.jpg?t=1298836348
http://wallpapersonthe.net/wallpapers/l/haruko_haruharu_flcl_anime_vespa_haruko-8042.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/60/aa/dc/60aadcb626bc6e0e3116c0ae5ef18dc7.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I2yHaMXsWRs/WBU65zSeaMI/AAAAAAAADfI/jGUBAKYYpUsA2JD6ShTPtr76MBfEpIS6QCJoC/w426-h400/16%2B-%2B1
Rating: 5.75/6
6th Anniversary Hazelnut Chocolate Imperial Stout by WestBrook brewing is a 10% ABV Imperial Stout with cocoa nibs, hazelnuts and vanilla beans added
Label:
Our 6th Anniversary beer is rich and chocolatey imperial stout matured on cocoa nibs, roasted hazelnuts and vanilla beans.
==Introduction==
This is the second time I try a Westbrook beer and for it being their 6th anniversary at that, it was definitely a damn fine pleasure to bring this one to the site. I was able to find this one when I was looking for the Mexican Biscotti Cake. I love hazelnuts and I definitely had to bring this one to the site. The last time I tried a hazelnut beer aside from Rogue’s Hazelnut Nectar was the Bruery’s Melange 12 which had the same ingredients like chocolate, vanilla and hazelnut like this one. This was a great opportunity to bring another awesome beer to the site especially for the end of 2016, their 6th Anniversary, and a chance to try more Westbrook. I hear great things from them. Let’s have a look at this one, cheers!
Aromas:
Roasted coffee, mocha, marshmallows, hazelnut nectar, Baker’s milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, tobacco, molasses, brown sugar, dark fruits, cookie dough, mint, bananas, vanilla, almond joy chocolate, pecan pie, flan and Irish cream.
Flavors:
Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Bakers Chocolate, German Chocolate, Chocolate brownies, vanilla, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, bananas, clove spice, dark fruit raisins, currants, cherries, raspberries, plums, mint, anise, molasses, almond joy chocolate, flan, Irish cream, Danish cream, coffee cake, brown sugar, tobacco, Triple chocolate cake, marshmallow smores, mocha, fruit cake, mild plum sauce, rye bread with raspberry preserves, pillow mints, macadamia nuts, maple syrup hints, dulce de leche caramel, chocolate mousse, cookie dough ice cream, chocolate cherry cordials and piloncillo sugar cone.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with a mint chocolate flavors, dark chocoalte, hazelnut, earthy hop notes, dark fruits, banana notes, clove spice and tobacco. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Dark full body, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
An exceptional brew that was very delicious and chocolatey. There was a lot of complexity going on but I think the flavors that stood out the most was the some what mint flavors. The beer itself is still worthy of praise as I still got many of the flavors from the ingredients used and the vast complexity. The only thing was that the beer definitely seemed to have a roast mint chocolate flavor through and through. For the beer overall I highly recommend you try and get this one, it is damn amazing!
Anime Corner:
Zest from The Testament of Sister New Devil was chosen in this pairing as I mainly wanted to go with the colors of the label but also the ingredients of the beer which actually fit well with Zest as she has the colors of the label and the colors of the ingredients such as the browns for chocolate and hazelnut and the light colors for vanilla. Overall, she is technically a devil which works for the dark aspects of this beer.
Sources:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CzGQPUCVIAENa40.jpg
http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/shinmai-maou-no-keiyakusha/images/0/00/Volume_V.png/revision/latest?cb=20140820104756
https://k60.kn3.net/BDC4DF9BD.jpg
http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/anime-characters-fight/images/4/46/Zest.png/revision/latest?cb=20150512165550&path-prefix=ru
https://k30.kn3.net/taringa/1/6/3/6/9/3/90/juampinie/0EB.jpg
http://2static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Random_b89889_6045838.jpg
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://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/fa99b-sombra.jpg
http://img1.joyreactor.cc/pics/post/full/Sombra-(Overwatch)-Blizzard-фэндомы-Overwatch-art-3471483.jpeg
Rating: 6/6
Botanicals & Barrels Series: Vanilla Bean Stout by Avery Brewing is an 11% ABV Imperial Stout with vanilla beans aged in bourbon barrels.
Label:
A double dose of vanilla derived from both fresh Bourbon barrels and the trio of Tongan, Ugandan, and Mexican whole vanilla beans is complemented by the essences of chocolate, caramel and molasses to round out this luxurious silky stout.
==Introduction==
I have heard great things about this brew. There have been many times that I had the opportunity to grab it but didn’t passing it up for other beers. Now that I saw it once again, I decided to bring it to the site. I have tried many vanilla stouts and barrel aged vanilla stout. Some are more awesome than others but generally, they are all definitely very good. It is not often I have vanilla stouts by themselves as sometimes you will have your vanilla bean and cacao nib beers that are very delicious but plain vanilla is definitely a great feat. Especially when trying to make beers like flan or crème brulee like. Let’s see how far this one will go, cheers!
Aromas:
Lots of vanilla, marshmallow smores, oak, bourbon, rocky road ice cream, almond joy chocolate, fruit cake, brown sugar, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, cinnamon, coffee, mocha, rye bread and molasses.
Flavors:
Rich vanilla, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smores, dulce de leche caramel, toasted coconut, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, bananas, clove spice, plantains, mint chocolate chip ice cream, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Jericalla Jaliscan custard, burnt sugar, dark fruit figs, prunes, raisins, hazelnut nectar, maple notes, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, rye bread, coffee, mocha, rocky road ice cream, oatmeal cookies, almond joy chocolate, vanilla and chocolate brownies, fruit cake, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone hints, hazelnut nectar, macadamia nuts and chocolate cherry cordials.
Aftertaste:
Finishing with smooth vanilla, bourbon, toffee, caramel, dark fruit, oak, chocolate, mint, anise, flan, Jericalla custard and crème brulee hints. No alcohol in the taste, Dark full body, syrupy, smooth, creamy and velvety mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Exceptional vanilla decadent beer. Lots of vanilla, complex and balanced flavors and not too over powering. It can be soft at times and is not too sweet either. Almost like a semi sweet ice cream. Then again most craft beers are like liquid ice cream in general. This one is no exception to the rule. Very enjoyable brew for all BBA brew lovers. I highly recommend it.
Anime Corner:
Rogue/Anna Marie from Marvel’s X-men was chosen for this pairing mainly to go with the colors of the label with the green, white, yellow and red. Her hair colors pairs well with the vanilla plant from the picture shown on the label. I figured this would make a nice pairing by just getting the colors right. Also, Rogue is a character that absorbs people’s strength, memories and powers. Basically, this beer will own you!
Sources:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6d/c7/7d/6dc77d95fb3628ff685bb31d90548d15.jpg
http://65.media.tumblr.com/05c284d4df2a9b5a3fc6effc0028820e/tumblr_o75dpwtems1sxptq1o1_500.jpg
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/7677d-16.jpg
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
Rating: 3.75/5
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://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/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
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/
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
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
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
Coconut Jones Dog by Pipeworks brewing is an 8.5% ABV Sweet/Milk Stout brewed with Coconut, Cocoa Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
Stout with cacao, vanilla bean, natural flavors added
Jones Dog is a pup who knows what’s up. The addition of coconut to our milk stout with cacao nib and vanilla, makes this brew a real treat. No man’s best friend is an island, but this brew might make you feel like cold chillin’ on one. If you fetch a bottle, lap it up!
==Introduction==
Obtained this one from thebottleshop.net. This beer label intrigued me and being a coconut stout and from Pipeworks, I definitely wanted to get it. They make great beer and I haven’t had anything yet that I did not find very delicious and exceptional from them. Since Death By Coconut by Oskar Blues, Mash & Coconut and Cacaonut from the Bruery, there hasn’t been a coconut beer that has really exceeded my expectations on the coconut beer category. So another coconut stout is definitely something I want to take a shot at. Let’s take a look at this one. Cheers!
Aromas:
Toasted coconut, macaroons, vanilla, caramel, toffee, Mexican Cocada candy, Danish cream, Jamoca ice cream, rocky road ice cream, Bailey’s Irish cream, Khalua liqueur notes, coffee cake, marshmallows, smores chocolate, dark fruits like raisins, currants, boysenberries, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, rich almond joy chocolate, cookie dough and pecan pie.
Flavors:
Rich toasted coconut, Mexican cocada coconut candy, coconut macaroons, vanilla, caramel, toffee, coffee cake, marshmallows, smores chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, dark fruits like raisins, currants, boysenberries, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, rich almond joy chocolate, cookie dough, Danish cream, Jamoca ice cream, rocky road ice cream, Bailey’s Irish cream, Khalua liqueur notes, Cherry cordial chocolates, Tropical fruit notes of Piña Colada, dragon fruit, passion fruit, bananas, pecan pie, hazelnuts, chocolate mousse, coconut flan and 3 leches chocolate cake.
Aftertaste:
Rich Coffee cake, Toasted coconut, vanilla, Hazelnut, dark fruits especially the dark cherry and raspberries, rocky road ice cream, mocha, cookie dough and tropical hints linger. No alcohol in the taste, pitch black darkness of inner coconut space body, velvety, silky, smooth and chewy mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Trying to compare some of the best coconut beers I have ever had, this one is definitely higher on the dark fruit and cherry list. The complexity in comparison to some of the other coconut beers I have had is definitely different and while I love each one for their different, I love this one for the fruitiness. I would definitely like to try this one again and would recommend those that can get this one should definitely try it.
Anime Corner:
Krystal Fox from Nintendo’s StarFox, Lavenda by Tofu93 and original art by priincessu were used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the dog at the beach. While these characters are K-9s, although different than the normal pooch, I think the colors along with the dog help accentuate the scene of tropical beer here.
Sources:
http://images.akamai.steamusercontent.com/ugc/577873252885734997/FD9C470C32A1A77DC4AD5E7AD408C67F5B2770E4/
https://pfimg.playfire.com/_proxy/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic1.e926.net%2Fdata%2Fsample%2F5f%2F7a%2F5f7ac370d4c365866bd5bc2eb1d3f34d.jpg&hmac=4e09e7b3b577b6429be59c6cbe5e0ff8
https://static1.e621.net/data/b1/54/b154690d2490f6745f772756840d2100.jpg
Rating: 5.5/6
2011 Bourbon Barrel Aged Grand Cru by Black Diamond is a 9% ABV Belgian Dark Strong Ale which 75% is brewed with Fruit with Vanilla Beans Added and 25% Ale is aged in Bourbon Barrels.
Label:
The designation of “Grand Cru” originates from the Burgundy region of France. Brewers have taken the term and applied to it more elaborate, aged and reserved versions of their beers. Our Belgian-style Dark Ale has been taken to the next level by the careful blending and aging techniques.
After much tinkering -with a number of unique ingredients combined with wood barrel aging- we arrived at this wonderful juxtaposition of fruitiness and maltiness which harmonized magically to produce this delicious winter warmer.
When poured, the beer has a deep mahogany hue. In the aroma, figs and dark fruit intermingle with notes from the wood barrel used, as well as subtle notes of banana and bubblegum from the fermentation process. Aging for twelve months on oak brings forth flavor of the barrel, as well as vanillin from the wood that is complemented by vanilla beans which provide a velvety smoothness and richness . The taste starts with the rich sweetness of the fruit, carries through with a rich mellow center and finishes dry, allowing for another glass as you sit by a cozy fire.
==Introduction==
I first had this beer back in 2012 for my birthday. Back then it was a beer that my brother got me as a gift. Back then I remember this one for being one for being memorable. Not only in its deliciousness but also the sentimental value since it was a gift from my brother. During a trip over to my friend Julio’s house in La Mirada California, I had visited Sammy’s VIII Liquor and they had a bottle of this aging. While the price was right, I couldn’t help but just bring it back to the site, years later after I first tried it. The artwork was really cool as well. So if it is true that the original bottle was from 2011, then I hope 5 years aged has given way to a very delicious brew. Let’s find out. Cheers!
Aromas:
Wine grapes, oak, bourbon, dark fruit berry jam on toasted rye bread, bananas, clove spice, cinnamon, Dark fruit raisins, prunes plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, currants, cranberries, Dark fruit yogurt hints, pecan pie, brown sugar, stone fruit apricots, peaches, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, milk chocolate raisins and chocolate cherry cordials.
Flavors:
Rich Dark fruit raisins, prunes plums, figs, dark cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, currants, cranberries, Wine grapes, oak, bourbon, marshmallow smore hints, stone fruit apricots, peaches, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, milk chocolate raisins, chocolate cherry cordials, port wine, raspberry chambord, dark fruit berry jam on toasted rye bread, bananas, clove spice, cinnamon, Dark fruit yogurt hints, pecan pie, flan hints and crème brulee hints.
Aftertaste:
Finishes with rich dark fruits, oak, stone fruit, mild bourbon notes, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, marshmllow and cinnamon hints. No alcohol in the taste, crimson dark murky body, smooth, velvety and mildly creamy mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
An exceptional brew with lots of dark fruit forward flavors with notes of bourbon. This brew reminds me a lot of the Deschutes Anniversary ales except where those are stouts this one is a Belgian Strong Dark Ale/grandcru. Essentially, the Belgian Dark Strong version. Ofcourse, while that is leagues away from this one, I still like this one as it was a gift from my brother a long time ago. I would highly recommend it if you love fruit forward beers with notes of oak and bourbon. Especially if you can find the aged one. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Janne D’Arc from SNK’s World Heroes was used in this brew pairing since I used her for the pairing long ago. The castle in the label of the brew reminds me of Nockmaar castle from the movie and NES game Willow. In the movie, it had a strong swordswoman named Sorsha which wore armor similar to that of Janne. While there is no anime version of Sorsha, Janne from SNK was the closest I could find. The brew colors, label and Janne bring me back to the nostalgia of the old school Willow series I loved as a child.
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/7FyFsFu.jpg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jJAQbI0nirg/maxresdefault.jpg
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
Rating: 4.95/5
Moses and the Misfits (a.k.a Whammy Bar) by Clown Shoes brewing is a 9.1% ABV Imperial Cream Ale brewed with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla beans.
Label:
Soulful tunes and great beer touch the best part of us here at Clown Shoes. Moses and the Misfits is an Imperial Cream Ale with cacao nibs and vanilla beans added for a unique contrast in flavor, and it was brewed in celebration of our 6th anniversary. We encourage those who drink this beer to tune into the music they love most and join the misfits of the Clown Shoes brigade.
==Introduction==
It is once again, the anniversary of an awesome brewing company. Clown Shoes celebrated their 6th anniversary in December and to kick off stuff, they released a cream ale with chocolate and vanilla. Last year they had the Quadruple ale which was an awesome feat. While this is not a barrel aged beer, I am sure it is not too far from awesome. Or at least I would like to assume given the fact that I have yet to have a bad beer from Clown Shoes. So with the addition of chocolate and vanilla, I am hoping for a much richer cream ale than its base may hint to be. Let’s see what this is about.
Aromas:
Tropical fruits like pineapple notes, passion fruit, dragon fruit, citrus, floral, and grapefruit hops, Irish cream, graham crackers, cherry hints, white raisin hints, white chocolate, caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, banana cream, marshmallows, crème brulee and waffle cone.
Flavors:
Vanilla, Chocolate notes, white chocolate hints, tropical fruit like passion fruit, dragon fruit, kiwi, pineapple, citrus, floral, and grapefruit hops, waffle cone, marshmallows, pilsner grain, white grapes, crème brulee, dulce de leche caramel, Irish cream, graham crackers, cherry hints, white raisin hints, rye bread, biscuit bread, peanut butter hints, pecans and banana cream pie.
Aftertaste:
Finishes mildy dry with graham crackers, vanilla, white chocolate hints, caramel and grassy hops.
No alcohol in the aftertaste, Golden medium to full body, creamy, crisp, refreshing and smooth mothfeel.
Overall:
A very delicious cream ale ranging from different sweet flavors. While not the biggest complex thing I the world, the flavors it did have were varying and delicious. One of the best cream ales I have had in a while. It is out there for a limited amount of time so I think if you love cream ales, this is a hefty and delicious one.
Anime Corner:
Asuka Langley Shikinami Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion was used in this pairing to represent all the characters wailing on the guitars. Her colors represent the colors of the beer, nice gold but also the red and brown from the cacao nibs and vanilla all the way to the theme of Moses in which it pairs with the Evangelion series being about Angels and Heaven and Demons. All in all awesome.
Sources:
http://konachan.com/sample/27862827785381547defb325adca7ae8/Konachan.com%20-%20103991%20sample.jpg
Rating: 6/6
2015 Chocolate Salty BBLS by the Bruery is a 16.4% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans, Cacao Nibs and Salt Added.
Label:
CHEF’S SURPRISE
A luxurious confection of sweet and savory.
Chocolate Salty BBLs is bold and salty and brown. Chocolate Salty BBLs gives you a savory , sweetmeat experience meant for sharing with friends.
==Introduction==
Two tables spoons of cinnamon…. and 2 or 3 egg whites …..a half a stick of butter…. mmm melted…. Stick it all in a bowl baby… Stir it with a wooden spoon…. mix in a cup of flour….. you’ll be in heaven soon… Say everybody have you seen this beer its big and salty and brown, if you ever need to pick… this one up… just go the Bruery NOW!! Ooohhh go get some Chocolate Salty BBLs… pour them in a glass and suck em!
LMAO!!!
Okay, but seriously though, pretty bold move from the Bruery on this one. It is an awesome feeling to have a South Park beer though. This one was released from the Bruery exclusively to Reserve and Hoarders members so unless you are willing to trade or out right buy, that will be the only way to get this one. This one seems like Chocolate Rain with salt and lower ABV but I guess I will have to see exactly what going down on these BBLs will be like. Wish me luck and cheers!
Aromas:
Rich dark and milk chocolate, bourbon, salted caramel, oak, vanilla, Whiskey, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, Kahlua Liqueur, mocha, chocolate mousse, dark fruit raisins, plum, figs, raspberries, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, fudge brownies, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, fudge brownies, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, toasted coconut, port wine, cherry chocolate cordials, toffee, cinnamon, Cookie Dough Ice cream, choco flan and smores chocolate.
Flavors:
Salted caramel, Milk Chocolate, dark chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, German Chocolate, Baker’s Chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toffee, Bourbon, Oak, Whiskey, Cookie Dough Ice cream, choco flan, Kahlua Liqueur, chocolate covered funnel cake, milk shake, black currants, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, fudge brownies, dark fruit raisins, plum, figs, raspberries, rocky road ice cream, mocha, coffee, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, fudge brownies, flan, sweetened condensed milk, crème brulee, toasted coconut, hazelnut, pecan pie, leather, tobacco, rye bread, cherry cordials and port wine hints.
Aftertaste:
Mild Salty aftertaste, caramel, chocolate, dark fruit, flan, oak, bourbon, brown sugar, white fudge, chocolate fudge and port wine. No alcohol in the taste despite the ABV. Pitch black with brown lacing full body, smooth, creamy, syrupy and rich mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
No doubt, these Chocolate Salty balls are orgasmic! (No pun intended lol) There is no Brandy in this beer but bourbon is just a good a spirit to use to aged this brew. Essentially, this is a moderately light Chocolate Rain with salt. It may not seem like much but it does add an additional level of complexity and it is different overall as it is a lighter beer than Chocolate Rain. Overall, while the name may seem to make it a gimmicky beer, The Bruery really knows what they are doing and it does seem to be the beer it intends to be. The salty aspect is mild and is mainly in the after taste but it sure does make it a bit different than chocolate rain as there seems to be more of a lighter balance in flavors by only a slight and yet still so damn complex and potent. Highly damn recommended!!
By the way, if you wanna know where the name of the beer originated as well as the song, check this Youtube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIl-6UnlGVs
Anime Corner:
Tifa Lockhart and the Final Fantasy VII cast as well as Chef himself from South Park were used in this pairing for many reasons. Right around the time South Park especially this song became famous, I was still in high school. Back in 1997, Final Fantasy VII was released. I got the game around Christmas and around that time I was heavily invested in wanting to get a Playstation to get this game. My friends Alfredo Gutierrez and Jose Almanza introduced me to the Chef Aid: South Park Album with the Chocolate Salty Balls song on it near the end of 1998. So the fact that these 2 things came out around my High School years, it was a good reason to bring them together with this beer pairing. A tribute to the South Park song and my RPG playing childhood. LOL Anime Chef Rules!!
Sources:
http://orig12.deviantart.net/ee4c/f/2015/101/d/6/d67cb3a90750227a1fdc49ec96f4b3b1-d8pcwho.jpg
http://orig01.deviantart.net/2491/f/2015/203/f/d/vii_by_benlo-d92fve0.jpg
http://t.wallpaperweb.org/wallpaper/games/1024×768/Final_fantasy_vii__tifa__anime_wallpaper_original.jpg
http://southparkstudios.mtvnimages.com/images/shows/south-park/clip-thumbnails/season-8/0801/south-park-s08e01c10-chefs-warning-16×9.jpg?
Rating: 6/6
2015 White Chocolate by The Bruery is a 16.6% ABV Wheat Wine Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
OAKALATE
This sumptuous version of our barrel-aged wheat wine style ale has an addition of fresh vanilla beans and TCHO cacao nibs.
White Chocolate is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may evolve pleasantly over time if cellared properly.
Notes/Commercial Description: (per beeradvocate)
The primary component of our “White Oak” ale is a 100% barrel aged wheat wine that we affectionately refer to as “White Oak Sap.” Essentially a “summer” barley-wine style ale, but made with a wheat heavy grain base, White Oak Sap is aged in used bourbon barrels for nearly a year and comes out rich in flavors of coconut, honey, caramel and vanilla. To compliment the already rich flavors of the beer, we’ve added cacao nibs and vanilla beans to give this beer the delicate flavor of white chocolate…hence the name.
___
Was available to Preservation and Reserve members for December 2015, the almighty white chocolate has returned. Unfortunately, like the 2013, the 2014th version ended up getting sour if not consumed fresh. I will say this much as my version did not sour at all after taking it out of the cellar. Something I had mildly regretted as I would have to wait patiently to replace the empty spot with another White Chocolate. This year, with the separation of facilities (All Sours are made at The Bruery Terreux) we should not see this type of situation happen again. This decadent piece of liquid chocolate white has been on one of my top favorites of all time in terms of rare beers and Now that it back in town, I have to come clean. Just like Black Tuesday, this will be the last time I review this magical brew. Sad, but I think I have made an important point over the years as why I love this beer so much. Heck, even my banner has this beer. So I bring it forth one last time, one of my all time favorites in my quest to seek the truest of the truest, White Chocolate! Cheers!
Aromas:
Rich hazelnut, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel,Velvet vanilla, white chocolate, flan, rich bananas, rich Lechera sweetened condensed milk, oak, toasted coconut, marzipan, wine grapes, marshmallows, 3 leches, biscuit bread, dark butterscotch, stone fruit peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, light butterscotch, biscuit bread with rich lechera, raisin bread pudding, crème brulee, Bavarian yeast phenolic notes, tropical fruits like sweet pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, pears, apples,, coriander spice, clove spice, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnamon, pecan pie, almond joy chocolate and more complexities!
Flavors:
White chocolate, milk chocolate, rich bananas, rich dulce de leche, Rich Lechera Nestle sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, bourbon, brown sugar, rich hazelnut, marshmallow, flan, mild citrus, marzipan , oak, toasted coconut, biscuit bread with creamy 3 leches spread (Three milks), pecan pie, almond joy, almond cream, tropical fruit like mild dragon fruit, sweet pineapple, mango hints, pears, apples, wine grapes, Stone fruits like peaches, apricots, plums, white raisins, butterscotch, coriander spice, clove spice, cinnamon, capirotada raisin bread pudding, Bavarian yeast phenols, dark butterscotch, piloncillo, crème brulee and more!
Aftertaste:
Lingering sweet condensed milk, white chocolate, vanilla, milk chocolate, bananas, clove spice
No alcohol in the taste despite the 16.6% ABV, sipping yet smooth drinkability, syrupy and velvety mouth feel, medium to full hazy body and supremely dangerous to drink in one sitting.
Overall:
Supreme, Luscious and Exquisite. Even for trying the 2014 version almost a year later and it did not sour on me (lucky?) the 2015 is damn promising. Even stronger in and more delicious than that of the 2014. White Chocolate, despite not being the new Melange 12, it is still a major component that still supreme. Mind blowing as always and a constant reminder of the love I have for it and my patiently waiting for it. Like many before, a bucket list beer along with Black Tuesday, Chocolate Rain the Wineification variants, Grey Monday, Melange 3 and my newest favorite, Melange 12, certainly all a must try.
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabaku from Naruto is no mystery to this beer. She has appeared in all the instances I try this beer and may do so even if someday I decide to review the beer again. Temari is simply and awesome ninja as I stated in previous reviews. She represents the color of the beer blonde to gold as in the color of her hair. She represents a partial tropical aspect in terms of the White oak that is added which I refer to “Raw as The Sun” but subdued by the overall sweet chocolate and vanilla which are pretty intimate to me. Temari’s strength is also in the ABV and just like a ninja, will flow easy if you try to consume her in one sitting. White Chocolate Temari, I Love You Chiquita!!! :3
Sources:
http://www.hdwallpapersdesktop.com/Anime/Naruto/images/Naruto%20Wallpaper%20257.jpg
http://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2015/01/12/584231/fd464741294dd813f56956bd2fecde55.jpg
http://img09.deviantart.net/6829/i/2013/234/f/b/temari_happy_birthday__by_rikamello-d6jbbmw.jpg
Rating: 5.85/6
Coffee Smoking Wood by The Bruery is a 13.8% Smoked Imperial Rye Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels with Coffee and Vanilla beans.
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Bourbon Smoking Wood aged on coffee and vanilla
==Introduction==
Purchased a growler at the Bruery Tasting Room, this one is on tap only. This beer is based on the original Smoking Wood which was aged in Whiskey barrels. In 2014, this beer was rereleased as a Bourbon barrel variant. Along with this variant, there were sub-variants that had different ingredients added to make the beer even more unique. This sub variant was made with Coffee and was one of several ones they released on tap only to the public. The best one was probably the blueberry one but I would definitely like to see how this one compares. Let’s take a look and see what this one is about.
Aromas:
Rich Coffee notes, smokey campfire notes, oak, whiskey, bourbon, coconut, marshmallow, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, dark cherries, dark fruit, plums, raisins, anise, molasses, bacon hints, butterscotch, rye bread, pecan pie, crème brulee, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, mocha, Irish cream hints, Milk chocolate, German Chocolate and Bakers chocolate.
Flavors:
Smokey campfire notes, Oak, vanilla, rich roasted coffee, mocha, espresso, cold brew, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, rye bread, whiskey, bourbon, coconut, marshmallow, cocoa crispies cereal, BBQ honey glaze, Jericalla (Mexican-Custard), flan, burnt sugar, roasted malt, almond joy, rocky road ice cream, bacon hints, butterscotch, rye bread, pecan pie, crème brulee, cherry wood oak, dark cherries, dark fruit, plums, raisins, anise, molasses, Khalua Coffee Liqueur, Irish cream hints, maple syrup, chocolate smores and dark candi sugar.
Aftertaste:
Smoked oak, coffee, earthy notes, vanilla, whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, BBQ honey, flan and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, A sipping beer with with a very very smooth, creamy and syrupy mouthfeel, and a pitch black full body.
Overall:
An exceptional brew that definitely adds more complexity to the original bourbon barrel smoking wood. The higher levels of Mocha along with the original flavors makes me thing of being in the forest on a morning or night having a coffee with a nice campfire. I loved the Blueberries one better but I think in comparison, this one is second best for sure and would highly recommend it if you can still get it at the tap room.
Anime Corner:
Vocaloid Megurine Luka was used in this pairing to represent the coffee and the rainforest tying South America to the greatest production of Coffee. I do not know where or what the coffee they used in this beer came from or is but I figure as a tribute to the greater origins of it. I figure since Luka’s colors defines some of the berry like flavors as well the color of the berries where the coffee beans come from, that this would be a good pairing.
Sources:
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/438233-2000×1189-vocaloid-megurine+luka-shon-long+hair-blue+eyes-highres.jpg
https://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/212622-1500×844-vocaloid-megurine+luka-marirero+a-long+hair-single-blue+eyes.png
Rating: 6/6 
Rating: 6/6
My Black Parade (Mi Desfile Negro) by The Lost Abbey brewing is a 12.5% ABV American Strong ale brewed with Cocoa Nibs, Vanilla Beans, Chilies, Cardamom and Cinnamon aged in Bourbon Oak barrels.
Label:
No one knew her actual name, Though to most she was simply Madame Marigold-Princess of The Black Parade. Each November 1st she led a procession through the town square to a makeshift altar at an unmarked grave.
Year after year, the processions grew larger and the celebrations more elaborate. Patiently she waited for him always. Yet, he never arrived.
Then one year, she too was gone. Her legacy endures as The Black Parade marches on despite her absence. Each fall, the entire village celebrates the lives of all the departed including Madame Marigold and her anonymous lover.
==Introduction==
Hoy es dia de los muertos (Today is day of the dead) and we celebrate the departed loved ones from friends to family. A time in Mexican culture many come together
Producing only 60 cases, this beer is essentially Bourbon Barrel Angel Share with delicious Mexican spices and ingredients mimicking dessert drinks like Mexican Hot chocolate. This beer was released by the Lost Abbey to be purchased and obtained at their location. Which meant only one thing, road trip! I had to basically go on a long journey to visit one of my favorite breweries for a second time to get this. That and also, make it through the small time frame to purchase it. If you would like to get your hands on this Dia de los Muertos beauty, you will have to trade for it or try to find it online. Will it actually be worth the time spent driving or your time and money? Well, let’s take a look at this cerveza muerta. Salud!
Aromas:
Port wine notes, cajeta envinada/ wine goat’s milk caramel, Chocolate abuelita, milk chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, vanilla, marshmallows, cinnamon, cardamom, oak, champurrado, Bourbon, vanilla, rich toasted coconut, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake hints, spicy chile hintslike ancho and guajillo, banana, brown sugar hints and champurrado.
Flavors:
Dark Chocolate, Chocolate abuelita, milk chocolate, Oak, Bourbon, vanilla, rich toasted coconut, flan, sweetened condensed milk hints, jericalla Mexican custard, marshmallows, cinnamon, cardamom, champurrado, dark fruit raisins, dark cherries, currants, black berries, slight hints of spicy chiles like ancho and guajillo, dulce de leche caramel, cajeta envinada/ wine goat’s milk caramel, port wine, mezcal, Khalua liquor, Danish cream, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar, fruit cake hints, molasses, anise, candy sugar, banana hints, champurrado, capirotada raisin bread pudding, earthy notes and three milks/ tres leches cake.
Aftertaste:
Mild chile spices linger after, Chocolate Abuelita, oak, bourbon, vanilla, flan, marshmallows, toasted coconut, port wine, earthy notes, dark fruit, danish cream and spicy notes. Slight booziness in the after taste but not detracting from the flavors. Pitch black and crimson full body, creamy, smooth, velvety and buttery mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
An exceptional perfection no less but before I put it in the utmost bucket list, I think it needs a whole year, 2 or even 4 years to age to perfection. This reminded me so much of the Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Lord De Muerte. The chilies do linger a bit but are mainly covered by the sweetness of it all. The Lost Abbey’s attempt at it certainly brings about the Belgian as well the deliciousness that is found in some Mexican traditional hot drinks like Chocolate Abuelita. Would it be worth seeking out? Ahuevo! (Fuck Yeah!) especially if you like Bourbon Barrel aged beers with a slight Belgian inspiration.
Anime Corner:
Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill and original bride character were used in this pairing to pair with la novia muerta de la boda del desfile negro (The dead bride of the wedding for the black parade). The colors she has as well as her wedding dress pairs well with the label and the colors. The aspect of death and the story of where the bride waits for her beloved to return is represented as the original character holds up the head of her beloved. Pretty tragic love story like that of El Muelle de San Blas by Mana. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teprNzF6J1I) For Ryuko though, I would say her loss of Senketsu would be something similar in the story of this beer. However, she is truly not alone as she always has Senketsu with her, she has her family and friends ( and #1 fan here 😀 ) so yeah she is awesome. That is what Dia de los Muertos is all about, togetherness.
Sources:
http://cciup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/43487375.jpg
http://g03.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1Y_IuIFXXXXbfXpXXq6xXFXXXS/The-most-gorgeous-animation-wonderful-poster-font-b-Gothic-b-font-fantasy-girl-red-style-4.jpg
Rating: 7/7
2014 Tequila Barrel Aged Mexican Cake by West Brook brewing is a 10.5% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, cinnamon, habanero peppers and aged 12 months in Tequila Barrels
Label:
Bottled 8/15/2014
Way back in December 2011 , they brewed 1st Anniversary beer – a serious imperial stout aged on cocoa nibs, vanila beans, cinnamon sticks , and fresh habanero peppers. It was so delicious to bring it back once each year and age it for 12 months in oak barrels.
¡Salud!
==Introduction==
Been meaning to try this beer for ages! The original Mexican was soooo good but all of them were always over priced and to some degree over hyped. Maybe it was me but I really wanted to try this one. Long behold we reach 2015 and I was able to finally land one of these for a decent price. Needless to say, splurging on something like this would be ridiculous but since I wanted it and it was at the right price, I got it. This is the first time I try a beer from Westbrook as well so definitely an honor for sure. I have tried so few Tequila barrel aged beers and so few chocolate abuelita beers but the closest I’m sure comes close to this is the Xocoveza Extra Añejo. So without further ado, here it goes. Salud!
Aromas:
Mild habanero, ancho and guajillo chiles, roasted coffee, marshmallows, piloncillo sugar cone Tequila, Agave lechugilla, mezcal, sangria vampiro, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, hazelnut nectar, dark fruit raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, blueberries, figs, dark cherries, dates, Khalua liqueur, waffle cone, mocha, molasses, Champurrado, Molé hints, pan dulce, milk sugar, ginger bread, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, fruit cake, Dark and milk chocolate fudge cake.
Flavors:
Rich Chocolate Abuelita, Tequila, Agave lechugilla, mezcal, charred oak, Cinnamon, Capirodatada Raisin bread pudding, fruit cake, Dark and milk chocolate fudge cake, dark cherries, dark fruits like raisins, prunes, currants, blackberries, blueberries, figs, dates, ginger bread, crème brulee, flan, sweetened condensed milk, Khalua liqueur, waffle cone, mocha, molasses, Champurrado, earthy notes, clove spice, grilled platanitos/bananas, churros, sangria vampiro, dulce de leche caramel, toffee, hazelnut nectar, leche, mild habanero, ancho and guajillo chiles, roasted coffee, marshmallows, piloncillo sugar cone, pan dulce, milk sugar and Molé hints.
Aftertaste:
Rich Dark chocolate, cinnamon, pumpkin notes, mild pepper spice, chocolate abuelita, tequila, mezcal, agave, mocha, vanilla, oak, dulce de leche caramel, earthy raisin bread and coffee. No alcohol in the taste, dark abyss full body, very smooth, creamy, silky, velvety and mildly syrupy and a drinkability that is ridiculously easy. Careful not to finish the bottle in one sitting.
Overall:
It definitely feels like a bucket list kind of beer. As ridiculous as this is, I am really pleased I got this. Funny thing is, the spices are not in the heat but allow for a Mexican style that fits similar to how Molé is made with chile and chocolate. There are only a hand full of beers that really deserve the title a World Class and this rarity gets the one of the highest rating for it. My expectations were really blown away and maybe it is worth what the hype is about. I may have not tried the original but the Tequila variant to me especially a year aged is like a dream come true. So yes, I highly recommend this version especially since the Tequila barrel aging just adds that cherry on top of the already awesome cake to truly make, Mexican! Ahuevo Cabrones! Busquenlo!
Anime Corner:
Dia de Los Muertos Samus Aran from Metroid and Vocaloid Hatsune Miku were used in this pairing for several reasons. You can already see some aspects of Mexican themes like dia de los muertos. The Guns Samus carries would be like those Mexican revolvers, you know, to vary it up a bit. She is in the theme. Also, why did I choose Miku for this pairing? 2 reasons. The first being that I used the picture of Miku on her side with the plugsuit representing the first tequila barrel aged beer I tried from Cupaca (Tequila Barrel aged Barleywine back in 2010) and barrel aging process but second, since she played a well known Mexican song called La Bikina (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqIugY6pk0c) so I know already she will work. Also, she has so much of the blue agave colors which pair with what tequila is made but also the colors of the beer. So the singing then ties to the 3rd drawing where she has the acoustic guitar. So much tequila goodness and so much sweetness from art and flavor experiences!
Sources:
http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b580/qinchao1204/chuyin%2012/wwwafterschoolsyscom-938.jpg~original
http://fashionablygeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dead_Upload.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Hatsune.Miku.full.1518790.jpg
Rating: 4.85/5
24 Carrot Golden Ale collaboration by Juli Goldenberg, Stone brewing and Monkey Paw brewing is an 8.5% ABV Belgian Carrot Cake Golden Ale brewed with Carrots, Cinnamon, Raisins and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
2015 marked the seventh year of our American Homebrewers Association-sanctioned Stone Homebrew Competition. As in the previous years, dozens of Southern California’s finest recreational fermentationist brought their “A” games. While judging their impressive and wide-ranging handiwork, we noticed something -many of the homebrew entries we’ve received over the history of this competition have incorporated culinary elements of been crafted to mimic the flavors of popular dishes and beverages. From Mexican hot chocolate to Black Forest cake, after-dinner mints to piña coladas, the gold medalist from our annual brewing battle have tackled some interesting and challenging flavor profiles…and persevered. But none have been as foodie-forward as the quaff concocted by this year’s winner, Juli Goldenberg. Our first-ever female victor added carrots, raisins, cinnamon and more to a Belgian-style golden strong ale to create a beer that is the liquid embodiment of carrot cake. The aforementioned flavor enhances bring the fruity, carroty and spice elements to the cake, while vanilla and milk sugar contribute the flavor and creamy texture of fluffy cream cheese frosting. The result: nothing short of brilliant and well deserving of the 24 karat (carrot?) golden opportunity to be brewed by Stone and distributed across the country.
“Homebrewing offers the chance to experiment with pretty much anything you can think of to do to a beer. I am so excited to collaborate with Stone, an icon of San Diego craft beer, and Monkey Paw, a model for continuous experimentation. Cheers to weird beers!”
Juli Goldenberg// Winner, Stone Homebrewing Competition
“Working with Stone and Juli to incorporate culinary artistry and homebrewing innovation into a project of this scale is above and beyond any brewing experience I’ve had.”
Cosimo Sorrentino//Head Brewer, Monkey Paw Brewing Company
“Juli’s recipe is the perfect demonstration of the Innovation and spirit of the fantastic San Diego homebrewing community. It is our distinct pleasure to brew this beer with her.”
Mitch Steele//Brewmaster, Stone Brewing Co.
==Introduction==
Stone’s newest homebrewing competition winning collaboration is here and it is definitely different. For the many brews I have tried over the years, I do not think there has been a carrot cake like beer. I am always open to crazy beer recipes (just like the 99 scorpions). When executed correctly, these beers can be awesome and some will give new experiences. This type of experimentation is kind of what pushes me to try something new now that I do my own homebrewing. It should pave the way for the culinary arts to meet the craft beer arts. Let’s take a look and see what this carrot cake beer is all about.
Aromas:
Carrot cake hints, cinnamon, citrus, grapefruit, grassy and tropical hop bitterness, Golden raisins, Dark fruit raisins, plums, flan, dulce de leche caramel, apple notes, brown sugar, banana hints, clove spice, candy sugar, honey, horchata notes, guava, mango hints, stone fruit peaches, raspberry hints, Danish cream, butterscotch and vanilla.
Flavors:
Rich Carrot Cake flavors with citrus, grapefruit, grassy and tropical hop bitterness, Carrot juice, Golden raisins, Dark fruit raisins, plums, cinnamon, flan, dulce de leche caramel, flan, vanilla, brown sugar, hazelnut nectar, Candi Sugar, piloncillo hints, horchata notes, guava, mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, stone fruit peaches, raspberry hints, Danish cream, butterscotch, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, crème brulee, bananas and clove spice.
Aftertaste:
Citrusy, grassy, piney hop after taste with the full fledged flavors of the carrot cake like the carrot juice, whipped cream, brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins left. No alcohol in the taste. Clear golden orange body, smooth creamy, silky and refreshing mouth feel and a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A very delicious Golden ale that really does taste like what it sets out to be, a carrot cake dessert in a bottle. Essentially I couldn’t help but notice how very similar it was to my Bubulubu White Choco Stout/Golden Ale in the sense that if I took out the Coffee and Cocoa nibs and replaced it with Carrot concentrate, raisins and cinnamon, and the rest was the same like the milk sugar, vanilla beans and the Golden Ale stout, then you pretty much have a similar tasting and very delicious beer. I highly recommend this one as it really took the aspect of culinary and home brewing the next level here. Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Lola Bunny from Looney Toons and Space Jam was chosen in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the aspect of Carrots and Rabbits. I could of gone with Bugs Bunny, but you don’t often get to see Lola and she is perfect as she also has the orange basketball which pairs nicely with the colors of the beer carrots. Since this beer reminded me so much of the Bubulubu one I made, Lola is a reminder as her brown fur was the color or my beer that tasted similar to this.
Sources:
http://orig11.deviantart.net/d65c/f/2015/203/f/0/lola___space_jam_by_namwhan_k-d92bs0y.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/36/c6/a6/36c6a6ea0825ab5966d02213589892c7.jpg
Rating: 4.85/5
Bubulubu Ghost In the White Choco Shell by Nubis Sanctum Ales is a 7% ABV Imperial Belgian Golden Stout brewed with cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, lactose, candi sugar and Unicorn Blood Coffee.
==Introduction==
Partial base wort was brewed using brewing equipment at Monkish for the “Monster Home brew Event” back in June 2015. The idea was to create a base pale wort using the equipment at Monkish brewing. Each person would get 5 gallons (or 10 or more depending on how much you would pay) from this concoction you would take it home add to the wort to change the style completely to more than 10 different styles of beer. I purchased 10 gallons and for the first 5 decided to go with a style that is super rare but super delicious and that was the Gold Stout. However, adding my own spin to things and creating a Belgian Golden Milk stout was definitely the key. With all the sweetness in play and complex ingredients, I was sure to maybe get something like a Golden Stout or Ghost Stout as I like to call it because looks can be very deceiving to the taste. So here is my take at the first White Chocolate Stout beer, cheers!
Aromas:
Coffee notes, caramel, peanut butter hints, Milk chocolate,white chocolate notes, vanilla, flan hints, honey, honey dew melon, pecan pie notes, white grape notes, banana notes, clove spice, maple syrup, toffee, butterscotch hints, candy sugar, agave syrup hints, marshmallow, stone fruit peaches, apricot, apple notes, herbal tea hints, milk sugar and slight coconut.
Flavors:
Vanilla, Irish Cream, Coffee notes, caramel, peanut butter hints, Milk chocolate,white chocolate notes, flan hints, honey, coconut hints, marshmallow, stone fruit peaches, apricot, apple notes, herbal tea hints, milk sugar, honey dew melon, pecan pie notes, white grape notes, banana notes, clove spice, maple syrup, toffee, butterscotch hints, candy sugar, agave syrup hints, biscuit bread and raspberry notes.
Aftertaste:
Belgian bready notes, vanilla, stone fruit hints, chocolate, caramel, milk sugar, earthy notes and slight berry notes. No alcohol in the taste, Clear Golden body, creamy, smooth, silky, velvety and mellow mouthfeel with a easy to moderate drinkability.
Overall:
A very delicious first attempt at a clear Golden Stout seems to be a great success. It is clear, it is easy to drink, not too overwhelming or strong and a variety of delicious flavors. My only complaint would be that the carbonation was not where I wanted it to be, the flavors are more toward a Golden ale and minorly a Golden Stout. Either way, that is most likely nit picky but a great learning experience.
Anime Corner:
Tia Harribel from Bleach was used in this pairing to be the firs in the Monster Brew Theme. The monster I went with is a Ghost and in a Shell at that. She is not Motoko Kusanagi but let me explain. You see, under here beautiful exterior of golden locks and soft dark skin which represents the color of the beer and flavors, underneath, she is all bones. Meaning her skin is like a shell of chocolate. The name Bubulubu derives from the Mexican candy with the same name. A marshmallow chocolate and raspberry treat but it also means Ghost. Like Boo!! Boo!! Lubu! Essentially. So Tia was the closest I can come up with. Why use the name of gold like the locks of her hair? Easy, as I explained earlier about Golden Stouts defying perception because the true identity is in the flavor, it is easy to see why her outer exterior is as deceiving as the true flavor which is the ghost or skeleton in side her white chocolate exterior is what truly hides the purpose. That and the fact that I used Unicorns Blood Coffee so that just adds to the whole creepy aspect of Ghosts and beers!
Sources:
http://img.manga-sanctuary.com/big/bleach-serietv-coffret-54-limitee-78620.jpg
http://orig08.deviantart.net/9faa/f/2009/317/3/3/halibel_by_sketchtastrophe.jpg
Rating: 4.25/5
Calm Before The Storm by Ballast Point is a 5.5% ABV Cream Ale brewed with coffee and vanilla beans.
Description:
Calm Before the Storm came from a quest for a warm weather alternative to our Victory at Sea Imperial Porter. Like its more robust cousin, we infuse a punch of flavor using cold brewed Caffé Calabria coffee and a hint of vanilla. But this time, we added it to a lighter-bodied golden cream ale. The end result is a surprisingly bright, coffee-forward beer that’s perfectly refreshing.
==Introduction==
A beer inspired by the original Victory at Seas. I sure as hell had to try this and see what all the fuss about this one was about especially for being a cream ale I figured it would be just another awesome dessert like the original Victory at Seas. While I did brew a similar beer that I will be reviewing in the up coming days, I wanted to see what flavors of this I can contrast with the Belgian Golden Stout I made with Milk, Coffee, Chocolate and Vanilla. Either way, I think the fact that this is light, maybe it will be so drinkable too and would be the best for those who like to drink several on a summer day. Let’s check this one out and set sail!
Aromas:
Coffee notes, milk chocolate, vanilla, toffee, smokey hints, grains, caramel, coffee cake, brown sugar, pecan pie hints, toffee, oatmeal hints, Irish cream hints, cookie dough and coconut hints.
Flavors:
Coffee, vanilla, chocolate milk shake, marshmallow smores, graham crackers, peanut butter hints, light grains, coconut hints, cookie dough, vanilla flan hints, caramel, coffee cake, brown sugar, pecan pie hints, mild smokey notes, earthy hop notes, toffee, oatmeal hints, Irish cream hints and milk sugar.
Aftertaste:
Milk shake notes, earthy hop notes, marshmallows, caramel, flan hints, smokey notes and white chocolate hints. No alcohol in the taste, Golden amber clear light body, creamy, milky, crisp and mildy silky mouthfeel with a easy to moderate drinkability.
Overall:
A very good ale if you want something sweet and flavorful but also light. Some of the flavors were not super bold and rich like the Victory at seas, but the fact that it is light and drinkable, the fact that there is so much flavors and characteristics going on this beer that you forget that you are drinking a light beer and can definitely keep drinking another bottle or 2. Nice job Ballast Point. It really is hard to compare my beer to this as it is not the same style but the flavors I get in this is only a small amount of the flavors I get in my beer for sure. Mine has cool skeleton too 😛 . Cheers!
Anime Corner:
Marika Kato from Bodacious Space Pirates was used in this pairing as I wanted to go with the whole pirate thing and a calm one at that. The whole scenario in space where there is nothing going on and Marika being calm and collective represents the gentleness of flowing through the sea of starts in a ship similar to the skeleton in the label. Just a great pairing overall.
Rating: 7/5
Mélange 12 by Bruery is a 16.8% ABV American Strong Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla Beans, Cacao Nibs and Hazelnuts.
Label:
NUTSO!
A curious amalgam of barrel-aged beer seeping with notes of burnt marshmallows and toasty nuts.
Mélange No 12 is best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor, but may develop pleasantly if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55°F (13°C) in a dark place. Ideal serving temperature is 50°F (10°C). Best enjoyed with friends and served in a tulip glass.
Mélange #12 is a uniquely debonair blend of some of our favorite strong ales that have been allowed to age gently in bourbon barrels for an average of nearly 22 months. Once these barrels were carefully selected to blend, we chose to enhance the beer and barrel flavors with three of our favorite ingredients: cacao nibs, vanilla beans and hazelnuts.
==Introduction==
Melange #12 released to Reserve Society and Hoarders society alike is a blend of several different beers that are undesclosed but based on the previous melange versions, they include, Black Tuesday, the Anniversary beers, White Oak and others I am sure as this is what Melange 3 composed of and the sequential Melange ones expanded from this other blends. I made a careful decisions as this beer comprises of many of the components that make up the Weekday brews such as Chocolate Rain, White Grey Monday, possibly Wineification, Cacaonut and Chocolate Rain. So I had no doubt that this would disappoint in any way. A Cuvee ambrosia of heavenly delight? Perhaps, let’s check this one out, cheers!
Aromas:
Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella and so much more!
Flavors:
Pure Flan and Mexican sweetened condensed milk,Rich Hazelnuts, pecan pie, almond milk, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, walnuts, prailines, oak, bourbon, marshmallows, Dark chocolate, chocolate milk shake, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, Belgian Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate smores, graham crackers, White Chocolate, mocha chocolate, Dark fruit plums, raisins, prunes, cherries, figs, dates, wine grapes, waffle cone, rocky road ice cream, butterscotch, toasted coconut, almond joys, cocada Mexican coconut candy, piloncillo sugar cone, banana split ice cream with cherries, port wine, rum notes, stone fruit mango hints, dragon fruit, passion fruit, buttery nutella, Mexican Duvalin candy, chocolate chip cookie dough, Danish cream, Bear claw doughnut, mousse chocolate, marzipan and more.
Aftertaste:
Super rich nutella, toasted coconut, white chocolate, port wine, Belgian chocolate, bourbon, oak, hazelnut nectar, tropical dragon fruit hints and passion fruit amongst other heavenly sweets. No alcohol in the taste, Dark yet Crimson Medium to Full body, sipping drinkabaility and Silky, creamy, syrupy, smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
Overall:
The best of the best and exclusive of elusive beers with no way of getting another unless they make this once again or you trade. It was definitely a special occasion as I tried this one. If they ever release as much of Melange 12 as they do of Melange 3, I am buying every single one!! This beer is like you took the alittle bit from each of the Bruery’s best beers and made a Cuvee. Basically, there is notes of Chocolate Rain, Grey Monday, Melange 3, Cacaonut, White Chocolate, Black Tuesday, Wineification and their anniversary beers and combined it to make this liquid Gold! Aging for 22 months is ridiculous but it is surely something that is truly unique and amazing. If you have the opportunity to get this one, do it!!!
Anime Corner:
Temari Sabakuno from Naruto, Kos-Mos from Xenosaga, Ryuko Matoi from Kill La Kill, Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach as being my favorite anime characters always get the best pairings in some of the beers I truly feel are deserving of that ‘Heavenly and Godly Ambrosia’ Liquid status as with many of the beers I have tried, this one to me captures what I feel is the best of the Bruery which are many of the Weekday beers into one. I once did a pairing with them doing Melange 3 except at the time, it was jusr Kos-Mos, Temari and Yoruichi. Ryuko from Kill la Kill had not come out and it wasn’t until later that I really loved her character in the series as she was a major bad ass. So I was glad I was able to pair them with this heavenly bliss of a beer. Melange 3 multiplied by 4 is Melange 12 so it makes the perfect pairing!
Rating: 6.25/5
2015 Imperial Or Xata (Horchata) by the Bruery is a 11.2% ABV Imperial Belgian Blonde brewed with Rice, Cinnamon and Vanilla beans.
Label:
¡Muy Rico!
This ale is our spin on horchata, a sweet & creamy drink originating in Latin America. This time with a bit more fiesta.
Horchata is one of our favorite drinks, refreshing alongside a spicy dish or just for sipping on a lazy afternoon. Our take on the traditional agua fresca incorporates rice and lactose along with spices for that sweet, creamy character that we’ve come to love. The imperial variation is just that much more rico. Imperial Or Xata is best enjoyed fresh. The ideal serving temperature is 45° Fahrenheit (7° Celsius). Best served in a tulip or wine glass.
==Introduction==
Well this was truly unexpected. Reserve society surprised many with a very limited quantity of a small batch of a stronger version of their Or Xata beer. I truly did not see this coming but definitely had to bring it forth to the website. Or Xata is currently out to the public in great quantities and also on growler fill as well at the brewery. So it is much easier to get this beer than it was in the past. Now with this special edition dangling, it’s going to cause a stir for Or Xata lovers. If you love the original, then let’s go over this one and see if it is truly worth the trouble.
Aromas:
Churros and Banana Dulce de leche caramel supreme, vanilla, rice pudding, Horchata, lavender flowers, flan, cinnamon, plantains, Danish cookies, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnabun frosting, stone fruit peaches, apricot, cherry pie, English cream, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint notes, whipped cream, milk sugar, hazelnut, chocolate truffles, Jericalla Mexican Custard, toffee, mango, pine apple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, green tea ice cream, macaroons and pecan pie.
Flavors:
Rich Flan, rich cinnamon, Rich rice pudding, bananas, horchata, plantains, rich liquid churros, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, capirotada raisin bread pudding, cinnabun frosting, Danish cookies, biscuit bread, butterscotch, marshmallows, leche nestle (sweetened condensed milk), toasted coconut, macaroons, stone fruit peaches, apricot, cherry pie, English cream, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint notes, whipped cream, milk sugar, hazelnut, chocolate truffles, Jericalla Mexican Custard, toffee, mango, pine apple, passion fruit, dragon fruit, green tea ice cream, mochi ball ice cream, cookie dough ice cream, pan dulce, hazelnut nectar, pecan pie, oak, burnt sugar, graham crackers, waffle cone, honey, French vanilla ice cream and Belgian Candy sugar.
Aftertaste:
A continuous barrage of candy sugar, vanilla, rice pudding, churros, honey, pecan pie, cinnamon, flan, stone fruits and dulce de leche caramel keeps lingering for a while. Slight alcohol in the taste but mainly sugar covered well by Belgian yeast goodness, crisp, refreshing, creamy, velvety, smooth and silky mouthfeel, easy to moderate drinkability drink, and a clear golden honey color of a light to medium body.
Overall:
If there was such a thing as taking the original Or Xata and you took it to the next level, a la super saiyan, shot it to volume 11, divided by zero, crossed over to the 4th dimension and then put the cherry on top, it still wouldn’t come close to explaining what they did to amp this beer to the next level. This beer is so crazy you can cuz slices like a pie. A churro pie perhaps. Either way, you have to find a way to get this one if you love the original. It really is, epic miles above.
Anime Corner:
Ryoko Hakubi from Ai Tencho Muyo! Was used in this pairing leading back to the original Or Xata with its green, gold and red label as well as its ties to the new 2015 version. Ryoko has a new design I wanted to show case for the new Tenchi series and I figured this was the perfect opportunity. Ryoko is hell of strong. I think may stronger than Fuu from Naruto which I used in the last Or Xata pairing. Therefore I wanted her to be the representative for this round. Her colors are very similar to Fuu’s. Also, I did use Ryoko for an Agave beer I did in the past so the agave like flavors are reminiscent of that. Either way, I really liked how her power compliment the stronger version of this beer.
Sources:
http://40.media.tumblr.com/91452b714353669884c5ae086425ae39/tumblr_ngqcvxqAw31skcniqo1_1280.jpg
http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/5536/61573d65766c939f14c3eca.jpg
Rating: 6/5
2015 Chocolate Rain by the Bruery is an 18.4% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with TCHO Cacao Nibs and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
MAKE IT RAIN
This decadent version of Black Tuesday is proudly brewed with TCHO cacao nibs.
Chocolate Rain began as a single cask of beer at our very first release event for Black Tuesday back in 2009 and now has a storied history of its own. This ale will age gracefully if cellared properly but will be the most prominent when consumed fresh.
==Introduction==
2015 Chocolate Rain is finally out for preservation society as well as the other societies. If you have not read my last years review of the beer, well, after analyzing this one, I found it to be just as awesome and rich. This beer along with Black Tuesday, White Chocolate, Wineification, Mocha Wednesday and Grey Monday are some of the best beers I have ever had. Cheers!
Aromas:
All the fragrances of the chocolate rainbow, dark, white, Belgian, German, sweet, bitter, milk, fudge and baker’s. I may have missed a couple others. Bourbon, Dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, toasted coconut, choco flan, crème brulee, hazel nuts, pecan pie, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, cherries, almond joy, rocky road, leche nestle sweetened condenced milk, fudge cake, coffee, mocha, Rocky road Ice cream, oreo and chocolate chip cookies, molasses, oak, earthy notes and brown sugar.
Flavors:
The utter definition of CHOCOLATE! Sweet, Belgian, dark, white, German, milk, fudge, bakers, bourbon whiskey, oak, vanilla, choco flan, dulce de leche caramel, crème brulee, toasted coconut, chocolate covered cherries, dark fruits, raisins, figs, plums, raspberries, almond joy, hazelnuts, pecan pie, tobacco, leather, fudge brownies, raisins, rocky road ice cream, mocha, coffee, brown sugar, oreo cookie, chocolate chips, oatmeal, Kahlua, chocolate covered funnel cake, milk shake, black currants, roasted cashews, tootsie roll candy, “Willy Wonka ain’t got nothing on this Chocolate Rain” flavors!…I ran out of things to describe this epicness…
Aftertaste:
Lingering chocolate, vanilla, caramel, dark fruits, brown sugar, bourbon, white fudge, chocolate fudge and more and more sugar! The alcohol is very little in the taste, but for all its worth, it doesn’t detract from any of the flavors at all and since it is 19-20% alcohol, It is in no way harsh. Sure it is a sipping beer, a dangerously sipping beer because it also has elements of smoothness. It does feel warm going down too. JEEZUUZ YES!!!. Very syrupy mouth feel, like I had mentioned in my previous review of this, boozy chocolate syrup.
Overall:
One of the top best sugary boozy chocolate syrups, I mean beers. Ever! Like I said before, there is nothing I can say about this beer but utter heaven! It could be overkill if placed in ice cream but hey, if you want Dat Dia-bee-tus! Watch out now. No joke, it is pretty sugary and utter bliss. DO NOT DRINK THIS BOTTLE IN ONE SITTING!!, if you enjoy beers, even if it is the only one you will drink for the rest of the night, don’t do yourself the dissatisfaction. This is really a great beer and should be enjoyed a few sips at a time. Chocolate Rain!! Some stay sober, while other feel the bliss….
Anime Corner:
Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach was used in this pairing, even from the last time I tried Chocolate Rain for many reasons, aside from the fact that she is one of my favorite anime characters of all time. For starters, in the original Chocolate Rain pictures for my last review, I wanted to describe that Yoruichi as the bringer of the rain since was given a Native American outfit and she was doing a dance to make it rain, rain chocolate!! Her attitude is very caring for her friends but at the same time feisty and very seductive (Lucius Chocolate Rainbow and Vanilla added). She is one of the fastest and strongest characters in Bleach (alcohol due to Bourbon). She is a Princess but was aldo the leader of Onmitsukidō, the Secret Mobile Unit/Corps, Special Forces or Covert Ops. In other words, bad ass ninja! (Alcohol undetected, hidden, hits ya hard later on). In fact, she is so bad ass she took down several ninjas in a matter of seconds. She also has Flash speed (Shunpo) and Shunko or Flash cry (Lightning based attacks)! Which describes Chocolate Rain’s aspect of smooth drinking and you can’t have Rain without lightning. Her sexy and seductive properties can all be described above in the aromas and overall flavors of the beer. Even her outfit and being show the dark fruit flavors, the chocolate, the vanilla, the caramel, the nutty, way more. There is so much more I can go on and on about Yoruichi being the perfect pairing for this beer it ain’t even funny…
Sources:
http://img1.goodfon.su/original/1680×1050/2/b0/art-foton-ike-devushka.jpg
Rating: 6/5
2015 Or Xata (Horchata) by the Bruery is a 7.2% ABV Blonde ale brewed with Rice, Cinnamon and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
¡Que Rico!
This ale is our spin on horchata, a sweet & creamy drink originating in Latin America, now quite popular in Southern California.
Horchata is one of our favorite drinks, refreshing alongside a spicy dish or just for sipping on a lazy afternoon. Our take on the traditional agua fresca incorporates rice and lactose along with spices for that sweet, creamy character that we’ve come to love. Or Xata is best enjoyed fresh. The ideal serving temperature is 45° Fahrenheit (7° Celsius). Best served in a tulip or wine glass.
==Introduction==
It’s finally back! The one beer that I enjoyed so much I had to drive far away just to try and get a sample of back in 2013. This beer was so damn good that it became limited right away with only an exclusive few to try it. Now the Bruery has brought it back and hopefully it is here to stay as a seasonal for many to try. I remember how close Horchata or liquid churros this tasted and now I bring forth the 2015 version. Hopefully it has not changed and is still as good as I remember. Cheers!
Aromas:
Rice pudding, cinnamon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, liquid churros, bananas, coconut candy hints, Danish cookies, cookie dough, butterscotch, toffee, biscuit bread, stone fruits like peaches and apricot hints, cane sugar, agave hints, mint hints, milk sugar, coriander and citrus.
Flavors:
Rich cinnamon, Rice pudding, flan, banana hints, liquid churros, brown sugar, dulce de leche caramel, pan dulce, leche nestle(sweetened condensed milk), coconut candy, clove spice, Danish cookies, cookie dough ice cream, Churro Ice cream,butterscotch, stone fruits like apricot hints, peach hints, cherry hints, English cream, piloncillo sugar cone, cane sugar, agave nectar, mint hints, whipped cream, milk sugar, Mexican Custard/Jericalla, Mochi ball ice cream, nutmeg, coriander spice, citrus hints, toffee and mangoes.
Aftertaste:
Vanilla, rice pudding, caramel, banana hints, rich churros, cinnamon and flan. No alcohol in the taste, refreshing, creamy and silky mouthfeel, easy to drink, and a gold haze of a light to medium body.
Overall:
What can I say that I have not been said before about this beer. This taste exactly like it should. It may not be the most complex beer, well, it kinda is but it hits exactly on the flavor profiles from what they were going for. An Horchata dessert beer. This is too damn delicious to pass up. I highly recommend you try this one since it is one of the closest to an Horchata beer than most likely any non porter/stout Horchata beer.
Anime Corner:
Fuu from Naruto has returned from the last time I tried Or Xata. I never really explained why I used her in the last pairing but the last label had a green, red and gold colors which worked perfectly with the label. This time around, since we have a more artistic and Aztec pattern in the label, I find that it works with her still. You see, for Fuu, her eyes and the 7 tailed beast she holds inside her has similar colors and the wings had complex patterns like the design in the font of the name.
Sources:
http://alexpetrow.deviantart.com/art/Fuu-320430770
http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2012/300/b/0/fu___edo_tensei_by_nextgfx-d5j2spf.jpg
Rating: 6/5
Barrel Aged Bomb! Collaboration by Prairie Artisan Ales and Balcones Distilling is an 11.2% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in whiskey barrels with coffee, cacao, and vanilla beans and chilies added.
Label:
Welcome To… TEXAS
Made By People Who Truly Care From Oklahoma With Love.
Welcome To… Oklahoma
==Introduction==
Thanks to my great friend Aaron Mendiola from www.beermetaldude.com for providing me another barrel aged goodness from Prairie Artisanal Ales. These beers are really hard to come by but the fact that this one is made with collaboration with Texas’s Balcones Distilling, this is even harder to get. So plenty of thanks to my good friend as many of the beers I have here on the site I could have not obtained without his help. This version is the Bourbon Barrel Aged version of BOMB. I previously did a review for the Rum Barrel aged and chile one which was freaking awesome. Let’s take a look at this one and see how it goes. Cheers!
Aromas:
Rich whiskey and fancy coffee, vanilla, caramel, oak, smokey notes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, , campfire marshmallows, waffle cone, French vanilla icecream, almond joy chocolates, dark fruits like raisins, cherries, currants, ancho and guajillo chile pepper hints, oreo cookies, molasses, brown sugar, khalua coffee liqueur, piloncillo, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate abuelita, toasted coconut and mint chocolate.
Flavors:
Rich chocolate, rich flan, whiskey notes, vanilla, bourbon, rich oak, smokey notes, really fancy coffee, mocha, campfire marshmallow smores, chocolate abuelita, sweetened condensed milk, toasted coconut, crème brulee, almond joy chocolate, dark fruit raisins, cherries, currant, anise, mint chocolate, hints of mole sauce, hints of ancho and guajillo chile peppers, oreo cookies, brown sugar, khalua liquor hints, rock candy, candi sugar, piloncillo, chocolate truffles, German chocolate, bakers chocolate, pecan pie, hazelnut nectar and toffee.
Aftertaste:
Rich fancy coffee, dark chocolate, dark fruit, vanilla, caramel, almond joy ice cream, earthy notes, smokey notes, toffee, tobacco and whiskey linger. No alcohol in the taste despite the 11.2% ABV, super smooth and creamy mouthfeel, Easy to moderate drinkability despite the strong ABV and pitch dark body.
Overall:
The other spectrum of the Barrel Aged BOMB series, this was super damn amazing. Just like the Pirate BOMB, so much complex flavors going on here and is almost easy to drink which is dangerous since you want to savor this one for a while. The chiles are not too hot but they are there and the heat quenched by the complex sweet flavors. I am not sure if this one was exclusive to Texas, but if you can find it, definitely pick this one up, it truly is awesome. Lots of magic is such a little bottle.
Anime Corner:
Original artwork by aplibot was used in this pairing since I wanted to find an anime girl that would pair with the colors of the label but also pair with the summer time aspect of either being at the beach or in this case, river rafting. I really like how the blues and greens in both pair really well.
Sources:
http://e-shuushuu.net/images/2015-01-29-706798.jpeg
Rating: 6/5
Pirate Bomb by Prairie Artisan Ales is a 14% ABV World Class Imperial Stout aged in Rum Barrels with coffee,cacao nibs, vanilla beans and chilies added.
Label:
Made By People Who Truly Care From Oklahoma With Love.
==Introduction==
An awesome exclusive hard to get beer which was only possible thanks to Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com . Prairie has come a long way to become many whale hunters’ favorite beers. They have been producing some magical bottles that we don’t see here much in California. Mainly since they are sold out quick but even at these tiny bottles, they are very coveted. I can only say I am thankful for my friend who has access to these living in Texas. So let’s see what the fuss is all about and walk the plank with this one.
Aromas:
Extremely fancy coffee, vanilla, mocha, dulce de leche caramel, Khalua Liqueur, sweetened condensed milk, Rum notes, bourbon notes, Crème brulee, marshmallows, graham crackers, oreo cookies and cream, banana notes, toasted coconut hints, ancho and guajillo chile spices, bakers chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate abuelita, brown sugar, Mexican Mole Spices, dark fruit raisins, cherries, and pineapple hints.
Flavors:
Rich flan, crème brulee, rich mocha, rich frappuccino, really fancy coffee, Khalua coffee liqueur, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, graham crackers, oreo cookies and cream, rum, bourbon notes, bananas, plantains, toasted coconut, ancho and guajillo chiles, cantaloupe hints, rocky road ice cream, chai tea, dragon fruit hints,old mango, hazelnut nectar, pumpkin spice hints, brown sugar, chocolate abuelita, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, German chocolate, chocolate truffles, dark fruit raisins, currants, figs, prunes, anise, mint chocolate, dark cherries, pineapple hints, Mexican mole sauce, rock candy and candi sugar.
Aftertaste:
Rich fancy coffee, mole sauce, dark fruit, vanilla, caramel, rum, tropical fruit notes, bananas, plantains, almond joy, flan and earthy notes. No alcohol in the taste despite the 14% ABV, Ridiculously smooth and creamy mouthfeel, Easy to drink despite the strong ABV and super pitch dark body.
Overall:
This is truly an awesome and super exceptional brew. There is a tremendous amount of complexity for such a little magic bottle. The label with the crystal ball just hinting at possible pirate Deep 7 seas magic. It surely looks like it came from the darks part of the sea. Also, this is not hot but the spiciness works well with this one. There is only enough to let you know its partially a chile beer. This is definitely outstanding and I highly recommend it if you can find this one.
Anime Corner:
Original Pirate girl character was used in this pairing to pair with the beer was the best choice as I wanted to show the colors of vanilla, chocolate, coffee, dark fruits and other flavors. She is also a pirate so it fit perfectly. The fact that this one is more of a guilty pleasure and smooth fits with how she stares into your soul! This beer goes into your soul too. It is damn good.
Sources:
http://i183.photobucket.com/…/Samur…/1548717967.jpg~original
Rating: 4.95/5
Kentucky Streetwalker by Naughty Brewing is a 10.2% ABV American Porter aged in Bourbon Barrels with Vanilla beans.
Label:
Brewed dark and aged for months in wood. Copious amounts of vanilla present themselves from both the beans and barrel. Kentucky Streetwalker is an Imperial Vanilla Porter aged until it was ready in premium bourbon barrels. It is dark, seductive and passionate… like your wildest dreams.
==Introduction==
This awesome beer I received thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola at www.beermetaldude.com. This is the second beer I have tried from Naughty brewing and the theme they have going on I really like. It seems to go nicely with the beers I review here at the site. This time, we bring forth a Kentucky barrel aged porter brewed with vanilla beans. If that alone isn’t enough to get the sweet tooth aroused, maybe you can try something else. However, we like to try all sorts of beers and so let’s go and pick up this beer and see where the night takes us. Cheers!
Aromas:
Lots of oak, bourbon notes, brown sugar, vanilla, caramel, wine grapes, musty funk hints, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, smokey notes, earthy notes. Dark fruits like currants, raisins, plums, figs, pecan pie hints, licorice, honey and marshmallow smores.
Flavors:
Lots of oak, funky wine notes, wine grapes, vanilla, whiskey bourbon, smokey notes, caramel, dark chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker smores, smores, dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, currants, blackberry skins, raspberry skins, pecan pie hints, earthy notes, leather, pipe tobacco, brown sugar campfire hints, molasses, honey, licorice, anise and oatmeal cookies.
Aftertaste:
Lots of oak, funky wood and musty wine grape notes, bourbon hints, vanilla, caramel, dark fruit, molasses, anise and smokey notes. Mild booziness in the taste, very dark body, slightly creamy and robust mouthfeel and sipping drinkability.
Overall:
This beer was very good. The most prominent aspect of this beer was definitely the oak. I am unsure if they were going with just a sweet beer or oaky but also tart hints. Which for this style, is very unique and welcomed to those that like a little bit of sour notes in their barrel aged. I liked it for sure and while it was not the best BBA beer I have ever had, it was still very good and worth the try.
Anime Corner:
Nibutani Shinka from Chuunibyou Demo Koi Ga Shitai! Was used in this pairing as I wanted to mainly pair with the label. It was a somewhat of a challenge as I wanted to get the girl with a vehicle just like it was on the car. I think this one was the best choice and while I am unable to say much about how this relates to the flavors of the beer, it definitely pairs with the theme and the label. Don’t Drink and Drive but if you do drive careful if you find an unsuspecting person that might seduce you like this beer.
Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore) 
