Spaten Optimator

20110930:
Wow, like the Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout, the Spaten Optimator got high marks on both BeerAdvocate.com and RateBeer.com. As such, I'm a little confused as to why I thought the Imperial Stout was okay and why I thought the Optimator was terrible. Were my senses off? I'll eventually try this one again, but not anytime soon.

I was trying to decide between this beer and another beer. I decided to ask the bartender which drink she thought was better. She said definitely the Optimator and so I went with the Optimator. Imagine the look I had when I took a whiff of the beer and was under the impression I was smelling piss. Then for the beer to taste like a Bud, I was confused as to what the bartender was thinking with respect to her recommendation. However, apparently her recommendation has some validity, and either something was wrong with my senses (perhaps I was already sick) or the bottle had gone bad.

I wrote: "Spaten Optimator Doppelbock. 7.6%. Smells like piss. L.C. says like dried piss. I thought it tastes like a Bud or something. L.C. says nothing special, tastes like Bud Light. L.C. says it best, 'It tastes like beer pong beer.'" 10:05 pm
"As I drink it tastes better, but I basically know I had bad beer. Kind of tastes like a red." 20111001 12:17 am

[20111015]

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Spaten Optimator

Relevant Links:
Spaten Website
Spaten Optimator (BeerAdvocate.com)
Spaten Optimator (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Spaten Optimator
The classic German dark beer, bottom fermented 'Doppel Bock'.

Flavor profile: Full bodied with a deep dark color and rich roasted malt flavor.
Original gravity: 18,2 %
Alcohol content: 7,2 %

Available as 12 oz. 12-pack, 12 oz. 6-pack, 16.9 oz. single bottle and 30 liter keg.

Gin and Tonic

20100630:
I tried my friend's Gin and Tonic. It was strong and tasted pretty good.

[20180704][Part of Mixed Drinks at Dave & Buster's]

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20110930:
I wrote: "Bombay Sapphire Gin. Lime affects the flavor in a weird way. But overall I like the taste. Sweet. I could do without the lime." 9:42 pm

[20111015]

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Gin and Tonic

(20110930)

Relevant Links:
Tonic water (Wikipedia.org)
Gin and tonic (Wikipedia.org)
Bombay Sapphire (Wikipedia.org)

Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout

20110930:
I wrote: "Coffee notes strong out of the bottle. In a glass the alcohol smell is there, maybe from the head. Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout. 7.0%. More of a barley taste than a chocolate taste. Taste seems to change about halfway through. Perhaps the bitterness is ignored. L.C. and her friend say it tastes like soy sauce, but I don't taste it. It might have a sort of sourness to it. Little carbonation at end. I'm not satisfied." 9:26 pm
I also wrote: "Final sip of the Imperial Stout has that chocolate taste." 9:34 pm

Note: This beer has a high rating on BeerAdvocate.com and RateBeer.com. I'll have to try this beer again.

[20111014]

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Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout

Relevant Links:
Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout (Samuel Smith Website)
Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout (BeerAdvocate.com)
Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout
This distinctive type of beer was originally brewed to withstand the abuses of shipping in foul weather to Imperial Russia. It was a favourite of Russian nobility whose taste for the finest food and drink was world famous.

A rich flavourful brew; deep chocolate in colour with a roasted barley nose and flavour that is a complexity of malt, hops, alcohol and yeast. Fermented in ‘stone Yorkshire squares’.

Serving Suggestions • Espresso coffee; Stilton and walnuts; baked sultana and lemon cheesecake; steak au poivre; caviar; rich apricot glazed bread; coffee trifle with roasted almonds.

Best served at about 15°C.

Ingredients • Water, malted barley, roasted malt, cane sugar, yeast, hops, seaweed finings, carbon dioxide.

Registered with The Vegan Society; suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Dr. Brown's Black Cherry

20110928:
The cherry flavor was there, but it didn't pack enough punch.

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Dr. Brown's Black Cherry

Relevant Links:
Dr. Brown's (Wikipedia.org)

2001 Château de Landure Minervois

20110928:
I wrote: "2001 Chateau de Landure Minervois. Strong smell. Not that bad tasting." 4:22 pm

[20111014]

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2001 Château de Landure Minervois

Relevant Links:
2001 Château de Landure Minervois (www.cellartracker.com)

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CellarTracker.com Information:

Vintage 2008
Type Red
Producer Château de Landure
Variety Grenache Blend
Designation n/a
Vineyard n/a
Country France
Region Languedoc Roussillon
SubRegion Languedoc
Appellation Minervois

2008 Edmeades Winery Zinfandel

20110928:
I wrote the following: "Doesn't smell as strong as the Chateau de Landure Minervois. Much sweeter, with a slightly sour taste. Zinfandel. Edmeades. It's hard to drink." 4:22 pm

[20111014]

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20111017:
I wrote the following:

"Edmeades Zinfandel. 2008. Strong smell of red wine. Not pungent smell. Typical red wine taste, not bitter. Good." 6:12 pm
"15.4% ABV. Mendocino County. Slightly dry, adequately sweet." 6:27 pm
"Good wine. I think I've gotten used to what to expect. That's the first step." 6:58 pm

[20111213]

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2008 Edmeades Winery Zinfandel

Relevant Links:
2008 Edmeades Winery Zinfandel Mendocino (www.cellartracker.com)
Edmeades Website

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CellarTracker.com Information:

Vintage 2008
Type Red
Producer Edmeades Winery (web)
Variety Zinfandel
Designation n/a
Vineyard n/a
Country USA
Region California
SubRegion North Coast
Appellation Mendocino
Options Show variety and appellation
UPC Code 768033001011

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Website Information:

http://store.edmeades.com/pdfs/08ZinMendo.pdf
2008 Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel
The 2008 Edmeades Mendocino Zin is reminiscent of Sunday night dinner with the whole family:
aromas of Great Grandma Jancine’s homemade cherry pie coming out of the oven, the fireplace roaring with oak logs and everyone looking forward to a great evening of wine, food, and camaraderie.
This year’s tannins are soft and supple, the cherry fruit is vivacious, and the addition of Petite Sirah and Syrah adds a nice rural feel with earthy notes and some nice structure. Aging the wine should help it evolve into a nicely layered and complex Zinfandel, with toast and smokiness from the oak picking up in intensity.

2008 Mendocino County Zinfandel
Appellation: Mendocino County
Release Date: June 2010
Composition: Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah
Oak: 13.5 months in 63% French (35% new) 37% American
Alcohol: 15.4%
TA: 0.52 g/1oo ml
pH: 3.91
Cases: 30,000

http://store.edmeades.com/pdfs/09ZinMendo.pdf
2009 Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel
The 2009 Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel is loaded with aromas of red cherries and subtle notes of toasted vanilla. This year's tannins are once again soft and supple, the fruit is powerful, and the additions of Petite Sirah and Syrah have added a nice rural feel while also providing nice structure. Aging the wine should evolve into a nicely layered and complex Zinfandel, with toast and smokiness from the oak picking up in intensity.

2009 Mendocino County Zinfandel
Appellation: Mendocino County
Release Date: May 2011
Composition: Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah
Oak: 10 months in 57% French and 43% American, 31% new
Alcohol: 15.7%
TA: 0.67 g/1oo ml
pH: 3.87
Harvest Sugar: 25.3 Brix

Brooklyn Lager

20110925:
Watching a football game. Drinking a beer.

(The actual bottle, but not from the actual day.)

I wrote: "Brooklyn Lager. Smells like lychee (a type of fruit). It has a nice fruit smell. It has a nice taste. 5.2% ABV. Best before Jan XX 2012."

[20121115]*

*This took over a year before getting posted! Surely it won't be the last post to experience such a delay.

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20131103:
I wrote: "I don't really like lagers, but this Brooklyn Lager is alright. To clarify, by alright I mean I enjoy it more than other lagers." 10:34PM

[20131124]

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20131108:
I wrote: "I only sort of like Brooklyn Lager. Actually, I don't like it at all." 8:17PM ET

[20131124]

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Brooklyn Lager

Relevant Links:
Brooklyn Lager (Brooklyn Brewery Website)
Brooklyn Lager (BeerAdvocate.com)
Brooklyn Lager (RateBeer.com)
My Brooklyn Post Road Pumpkin Ale post

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Website Information:

BROOKLYN LAGER

In the late 1800’s Brooklyn was one of the largest brewing centers in the country, home to more than 45 breweries. Lager beer in the “Vienna” style was one of the local favorites. It is amber-gold in color and displays a firm malt center supported by a refreshing bitterness and floral hop aroma. Caramel malts show in the finish. The aromatic qualities of the beer are enhanced by “dry-hopping”, the centuries-old practice of steeping the beer with fresh hops as it undergoes a long, cold maturation. The result is a wonderfully flavorful beer, smooth, refreshing and very versatile with food. Dry-hopping is largely a British technique, which we’ve used in a Viennese-style beer to create an American original.

SPEC SHEET
Style: American Amber Lager
Malts: American Two-row Malts
Hops: Hallertauer Mittelfrueh, Vanguard and Cascade
Alcohol by Volume: 5.2%
IBUs: 33
Original Gravity: 13° Plato
Calories: 170
Food Pairings: From the most modest picnics to the country’s finest restaurants, Brooklyn Lager is enjoyed with everything from salads to steaks. Brooklyn Lager is at home with pizza, burgers, Mexican food, roast chicken, barbecue, fried fish, pork and Chinese dishes. For cheese, go with manchego, Stilton, farmhouse cheddar and mild Gruyere.
Availability: Year-round
Format: 15.5 gal kegs; 5.2 gal kegs; 24/12oz bottles; 12oz cans; 16oz cans

Awards
2010 World Beer Championships: Gold Medal
2011 World Beer Championships: Gold Medal
2010 Craftcans.com 3rd place
2010 Hong Kong International Beer Awards Winner

New Belgium 1554 Black Lager

20110925:
I wrote: "Nice dark smell. Like a stout. Tastes like a stout and/or black lager. Like that Guinness Black Lager I had last week, except better."

[20111014]

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20130607:
From the bottle. Has a chocolate smell. Oh wow, it has a nice creamy, chocolate taste. That's a good tasting beer. I would say its a very good beer.

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20141010:
The New Belgium 1554 Black Lager has an easy, malty taste. I also think it has a good mouthfeel.

Without the label, I would have thought it was a stout instead of a black lager. 5:42PM PT

(20141010)

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New Belgium 1554 Black Lager
formerly New Belgium 1554 Enlightened Black Ale*
*See the link to the New Belgium article "Did you notice the name change to 1554?"

Relevant Links:
New Belgium 1554 Enlightened Black Ale (New Belgium Website)
New Belgium 1554 Black Lager (BeerAdvocate.com)
New Belgium 1554 Enlightened Black Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
New Belgium 1554 Enlightened Black Ale (RateBeer.com)
Did you notice the change to 1554? (New Belgium Website)

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Website Information:

Born of a flood and centuries-old Belgian text, 1554 Enlightened Black Ale uses a lager yeast strain and dark chocolaty malts to redefine what dark beer can be. In 1997, a Fort Collins flood destroyed the original recipe our researcher, Phil Benstein, found in the library.

So Phil and brewmaster, Peter Bouckaert, traveled to Belgium to retrieve this unique style lost to the ages. Their first challenge was deciphering antiquated script and outdated units of measurement, but trial and error (and many months of in-house sampling) culminated in 1554, a highly quaffable dark beer with a moderate body and mouthfeel.

SENSORY:
VISUAL - Brilliant/clear, mahogany
AROMA - Slightly fruity, herbal, spicy, rooty, coffee, chocolate, toffee
FLAVOR - Starts bitter chocolate with bright acidity, roasty and toasty, sweetness to round it out sweet/spicy, rooty, peppery undertones, lingering fruit acidity,
MOUTHFEEL - Due to the lager yeast ferm at high temps and the chocolate and black malt- this beer starts and finishes dry yet the middle is round and malt rich. session!
BODY - Light - Medium

BEER FACTS:
ABV - 5.6%
IBU - 21
Yeast - Lager Yeast
Calories - 198
Hops - Target
Malts - Pale, Carapils, Black, Munich, Chocolate
OG - 15.3
TG - 4.5

Cinnamon Schnapps

20110925:
I wrote: "Wow this Cinnamon Schnapps is great..." 1:44 am

[20111013]

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Cinnamon Schnapps

Relevant Links:
Schnapps (Wikipedia.org)

Saranac Pumpkin Ale

20110924:
I wrote: "Strange. Spice strong. A friend of a friend says it has nutmeg. Perhaps that's why I didn't straight up get a pumpkin smell. Very strange aftertaste. I don't really like it. Bleh. Tastes just a little better halfway through. No carbonation. Slight sourness. Little head." 9:55 pm

[20111013]

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Saranac Pumpkin Ale

Relevant Links:
Saranac Pumpkin Ale (Saranac)
Saranac Pumpkin Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)

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Website Information:

Pumpkin Ale
Availability: 6 Packs, 12 Packs, Draught, 12 Beers A Falling 2011

Brewers Notes:
Saranac Pumpkin Ale is brewed with Pumpkin, Cinnamon, Allspice, Cloves, Ginger and Vanilla. Look for a full-body and amber color. We're sure you'll enjoy this special brew!

Beer Style: Spiced Fruit Ale
Malt Selections: Maris Otter, Wheat
Hop Selections: Cascade Hops
Color: Medium Brown
Mouthfeel / Body: Medium
Food Companions: Fowl and Game Birds
Alcohol By Volume: 5.4%
Original Gravity: 13.0

Baltimore-Washington Beer Works The Raven Special Lager

20100317:
I had a bottle of The Raven at The Raven, Virginia Beach, VA.

[20160917]

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20110924:
I got this beer on draft today (20110924) and I wrote the following: "Not much of a smell. Very drinkable. Nice, easy taste. Very low amount of carbonation. Just slightly bitter. Overall it's good." 8:24 pm

[20111012][20160917 Edit]

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20140322:
While waiting for the opening band of the San Fermin concert to start, my friends and I decided to have a drink. With only two beers on draft, I decided to go with "The Raven Lager $6 (5.25%)." I later had the New Belgium Spring Blonde Ale.

I wrote: "This Raven Lager has a much crispier taste than the Dos Equis Ambar I had earlier tonight. Overall, it has a decent taste." 8:41PM ET

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The Raven Special Lager

Relevant Links:
The Raven Special Lager (B.W. Beer Works Website)
The Raven Special Lager (BeerAdvocate.com)
The Raven Special Lager (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information: (as of 20111012)

The Raven is a German style beer, that's not too light nor too heavy. Raven Beer is a perfect balanced lager beer that goes with any kind of food or when you just want to sit down and enjoy a beer with friends. We believe that our customers deserve premium ingredients to achieve that authentic European flavor and aroma. Raven Beer is brewed in Baltimore, Maryland.

Our beer is served in the following states:
Delaware; Maryland; Pennsylvania; South Carolina; Virginia; Washington, D.C.

Website Information: (as of 20140408)
The Raven Special Lager is a perfect balanced lager beer that goes well with any kind of food, but particularly with spicy food or when you just want to sit down and enjoy a beer with friends. With a shot of Woodford Reserve chased with chilled Raven Special Lager is a near perfect combination. The rich golden colored beer is an exceptionally smooth Southern German lager, somewhat malty but well balanced between the hops and malt. Experiencing the clean finish and pleasant lingering aftertaste of The Raven Special Lager, one can truly say that The Taste Is Poetic.

Malts: 2-row Pale, Munich, Crystal, Vienna
Hops: Bravo, Tettnanger, Mt Hood
ABV: 5.25%
IBU: 18
Bottles: 4x6x12oz. Cases
Kegs: 1/6 (5.2 gal) 1/2 (13.2 gal)
Tasting Notes: This pale amber beer has a delightful aroma that goes down easily with a nice hop taste and dry finish.

2010 Pieropan Soave

20110921:
I wrote the following: "I like the Pieropan Soave (white wine) better than the Chateau Les Trois Croix Fronsac and I like the Fronsac better than the The Deck Big Blind Carmenere." 5:08 pm

[20111002]

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2010 Pieropan Soave

Relevant Links:
Pieropan Website (Italian)
Pieropan Website (English)
2010 Pieropan Soave, Italy, Veneto, Soave (CellarTracker.com)

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CellarTracker.com Information:

Vintage 2010
Type White
Producer Pieropan (web)
Variety Garganega
Designation n/a
Vineyard n/a
Country Italy
Region Veneto
SubRegion n/a
Appellation Soave

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Website Information:

Pieropan Soave Classico
Soave Classico

This is the freshest, youngest wine in the Pieropan family range. It is made entirely from fruit grown in their own vineyards situated in the Soave Classico zone and planted only with indigenous grape varieties.

Sheet
Denomination: Soave Classico DOC
Provenance: Hillside vineyard in the Soave Classico zone.
Grape variety: Garganega: 85 % | Trebbiano di Soave: 15%
Age of vines: 6 – 60 years depending on the vineyard.
Vineyard: Volcanic soils, situated at 100-300 m above sea level, facing west.
Yields: Per hectare: 80-90 hl (2.5 kg per vine)
Training: Guyot trained with 5200 vines per hectare. and pergola veronese whit 3000 vines per hectare
Defence method: Holistic, low environmental impact approach to pest control.
Buds per vine: 8-10 buds per vine
Harvest: Hand-picked starting from mid-September for the Trebbiano di Soave and from October for the Garganega.
Vinification techniques: The grapes are de-stemmed and crushed with the free run juice fermented separately between 14-18°C in glass-lined cement tanks.

Organoleptic properties
Color: Brilliant straw yellow colour with greenish hints.
Perfume: The delicate nose is reminiscent of almond blossoms and marzipan.
Tasting notes: Good depth of fruit on the palate, nicely balanced by a zingy acidity that enhances its long length.
Alcoholic content: 12º
Total acidity: 6 ‰

Ageing
The wine remains in glass-lined cement tanks on the fine lees for a period which varies according to the vintage. In the spring following the harvest the wine is bottled and then released after at least a further month in bottle.

Serving suggestions
It makes an excellent partner for soups, starters, especially vegetable based such as asparagus, peas, courgette, egg-based dishes or seafood and fresh water fish dishes. It is an excellent aperitif, especially when served with simple canapés. Serve at 12°C.

2009 The Deck Big Blind Carmenere

20110921:
I wrote: "I like the Pieropan Soave (white wine) better than the Chateau Les Trois Croix Fronsac and I like the Fronsac better than the The Deck Big Blind Carmenere." 5:08 pm

[20111002]

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2009 The Deck Carmenere

Relevant Links:
2008 Big Blind Carmenere (TheBlackWiner.com)
Friday Monkey Group Website

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Website Information:

The Deck Carmenere
Dark red color. In the nose it has red cherries and plums with a touch of toasty oak. Hints of chocolate and berries. Round tannins, soft but well structured.

2000 Château Les Trois Croix Fronsac

20110921:
I wrote: "I like the Pieropan Soave (white wine) better than the Chateau Les Trois Croix Fronsac and I like the Fronsac better than the The Deck Big Blind Carmenere." 5:08 pm

[20111002]

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2000 Château Les Trois Croix Fronsac

Relevant Links:
Château Les Trois Croix Website (French)
2000 Château Les Trois Croix, France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Fronsac (CellarTracker.com)

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CellarTracker.com Information:

Vintage 2000
Type Red
Producer Château Les Trois Croix (web)
Variety Red Bordeaux Blend
Designation n/a
Vineyard n/a
Country France
Region Bordeaux
SubRegion Libournais
Appellation Fronsac

Redhook Copperhook

20110921:
I wrote: "Copperhook. Tastes decent. At first it had quite a carbonated feel. Better tasting than Snake Dog but still not something I'd drink again." 4:34 pm

[20111002]

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Redhook Copperhook

Relevant Links:
Copperhook (BeerAdvocate.com)
Copperhook (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Who needs precious metals, when you’ve got Copper?! This copper colored ale is a real crowd-pleaser. Copperhook strikes the perfect balance of smooth, rich, malty flavor you’d expect from a craft brew with a lighter body and hop profile that makes it a perfect “session” beer when you’ve got a long day ahead of knocking back a few with your buddies.

STYLE...................... Copper Ale
ABV......................... 5.8%
IBUS....................... 25.0 IBU
ORIGINAL GRAVITY.. 13.25 degrees plato
BREWED SINCE......... 2001

Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA

(20140122)

20110921:
I wrote: "Snake Dog IPA. IPA. 7.1% 60 IBU. Terrible. Too grassy? Gross..." 4:06PM
I wrote: "Copperhook. Tastes decent. At first it had quite a carbonated feel. Better tasting than Snake Dog but still not something I'd drink again." 4:34 pm

[20111002]

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20140122:
I wrote: "This Snake Dog IPA goes well with General Tso's chicken." 10:33PM ET

(20110921)

[20140405]

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Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA

Relevant Links:
Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA (BeerAdvocate.com)
Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA (Flying Dog Website)
Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA (2008 and later) (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

BREWER BREAKDOWN:
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 7.1%
HOP BITTERNESS: 60 IBU
PLATO: 15
HOPS: Warrior, Columbus
YEAST: American Ale

FOOD PAIRINGS:
IPAs emphasize the heat in spicy foods and smooth out creamy, fatty foods.

Flavor notes: Big citrus (notably grapefruit) hop aroma and flavor with caramel malt notes

Pairs with: Mexican, Thai, curry, wasabi, buttery and spicy cheeses, exotic fruits

Ommegang BPA

20110918:
I wrote: "Ommegang. Had that wheat smell the pale ale hop with a citrus smell. Taste was more bitter and hoppy than any Belgium I've had... Maybe I didn't understand the BPA style. 6.2% I didn't really like it. Not balanced. I might have disturbed the yeast..."

I think I'll eventually have to try this one again. My opinion might be affected by the beer's style. (It has great reviews on BeerAdvocate.com)

[20111012]

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Ommegang BPA

Relevant Links:
Ommegang BPA (BeerAdvocate.com)
Ommegang BPA (Ommegang Website)
My Ommegang Abbey Ale post

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Website Information:

Belgian Pale Ale

Ommegang BPA is our interpretation of a true Belgian-style Pale Ale. Taking inspiration from both sides of the Atlantic, we feel we've brewed up something completely unique.

BPA is brewed with 5 specialty malts and generously - though not excessively - hopped with three hops: Columbus for bittering, three additions of Celeia for aroma, then dry-hopped with Cascade. BPA is primary fermented and bottle-conditioned using our signature house yeast.

Copper-golden in color with entrancing effervescence, BPA forms a substantial, fluffy white head, giving off aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. Noticeable herbal notes and bitterness from the hops never overpower the balanced malt backbone and allow the estery qualities of our yeast to shine through.

We feel the result is quite remarkable. Giving a nod to the fine Pale Ales brewed in America today, though never forgetting its classic Belgian roots, BPA is exceedingly refreshing and well-balanced. At a modest 6.2% ABV this beer is perfect as the weather warms and the days lengthen, BBQ's become more abundant, and friends look to gather outdoors more. BPA lends itself to a wide array of food pairings; seamlessly with lighter fare such as salads and seafood, locally made cheeses and meats with spicy pickles, and never forget about your burgers and grilled sausages!

Enjoy, and let us know what you think!

Red Brick Station Spooners' Stout

20110917:
The Spooners' Stout is the only one I could get a smell out of. It has a typical chocolate smell. Though the taste is more like coffee than chocolate. Like black coffee. The final Spooners' Stout sip had more of that chocolate taste.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Spooners' Stout

Relevant Links:
Spooners' Stout | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
White Marsh Spooners' Stout (RateBeer.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

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Website Information:

SPOONERS' STOUT
A true Irish Ale for those of you who are brave enough to get into the darker beers. Spooners' has a full roasted malt flavor and a perfect balance between the hops and malt. It's smooth as silk going down and is sure to please.
ABV = 4.5%

Red Brick Station Dobie Gillis Rye Pale Ale

20110917:
The specialty pale ale is not as piney as the Daily Crisis IPA and felt more carbonated. This pale ale smells and tastes sweeter than the Daily Crisis IPA.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Dobie Gillis Rye Pale Ale

Relevant Links:
My post for Red Brick Station

Red Brick Station Daily Crisis IPA

20110917:
I like the hoppy and piney flavor in the Daily Crisis IPA. The Daily Crisis IPA has a nice piney smell to it.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Daily Crisis IPA

Relevant Links:
Daily Crisis IPA | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
Daily Crisis IPA (RateBeer.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

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Website Information:

DAILY CRISIS IPA
Don't let the name fool you. This beer is no mistake. A light copper colored ale with an intense hop nose and a distinct hop flavor with mild body and plenty of kick. For the true beer enthusiast this beer weighs in at 55 IBU's. A great beer with lots of flavor. Named after our friends at the Daily Crisis Dairy Farm here in Baltimore County, Maryland.
ABV = 6.1%

Red Brick Station Maddy Moo's Hefeweizen

20110917:
The Hefeweizen is light orange. I don't find anything particularly interesting there. Hefeweizen, like the Something Red, is just okay.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Maddy Moo's Hefeweizen

Relevant Links:
White Marsh Maddy Moo's Hefeweizen (RateBeer.com)
Maddy Moo Hefeweizen | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

Red Brick Station Something Red

20110917:
The Something Red isn't as bitter as I thought it would be. Actually not bitter at all. The Something Red is just okay.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Something Red

Relevant Links:
Something Red | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
White Marsh Something Red (RateBeer.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

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Website Information:

SOMETHING RED - 2007 Maryland Governor's Cup Winner!
This one has something for everyone. A deep copper colored ale with just the right amount of malt to complement the dosing of hops. A true beer lover's beer.
ABV = 5.0%

Red Brick Station Avenue Ale

20110917:
Avenue Ale has a much more carbonated mouth feel than Honeygo Lite. It also has a nice sweet aftertaste. I like the Honeygo Lite better than the Avenue Ale.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Avenue Ale

Relevant Links:
Avenue Ale | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
White Marsh Avenue Ale (RateBeer.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

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Website Information:

AVENUE ALE - 2007 Maryland Governor's Cup Bronze Medal
A golden colored ale with crisp malt character and a slightly spicy hop aroma. We use a good amount of wheat and some German malt in this one to give it a very refreshing taste. Avenue Ale is a true session beer, so sit down and prepare for a long one. Bill & Tony's favorite.
ABV = 4.1%

Red Brick Station Honeygo Lite

20110917:
Honeygo Lite is light, crisp, and drinkable. It has a nice flavor. Honeygo Lite is good light beer. I like the Honeygo Lite better than the Avenue Ale.

[20111002][20180620 Edit][Part of Beer Flight at Red Brick Station]

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Red Brick Station Honeygo Lite

Relevant Links:
Honeygo Lite | Red Brick Station (BeerAdvocate.com)
White Marsh Honeygo Lite (RateBeer.com)
My post for Red Brick Station

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Website Information:

HONEYGO LITE
Although this is a truly lite beer, it's not light on flavor. If you are looking for a real thirst quencher, this is the one.
ABV = 3.6%

Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat Hefeweizen

20110916:
Smells alright. I guess I'm getting that hefeweizen smell which I'm not exactly too fond of. But the taste turned out alright. There's a nice easy carbonated feel. 4.7 % ABV. IBU: 12.

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Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat Hefeweizen

Relevant Links:
Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat Hefeweizen
Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat Hefeweizen (BeerAdvocate.com)

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Website Information:

BREWER BREAKDOWN:
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 4.7%
AVAILABILITY: Year-round
HOP BITTERNESS: 12 IBU
PLATO: 12
HOPS: German Perle
YEAST: Proprietary wheat strain

FOOD PAIRINGS:
This German-Style Hefe is great with complementing (fruitiness) or contrasting (seafood spices like Old Bay) flavors.

Flavor Notes: Huge banana and clove notes

Pairs with: Seafood; chicken; tomato or carrot soup; tangy cheeses like Feta, Swiss, and Chevre; fruit salads.

AWARDS:
2006 BRONZE MEDAL
Great American Beer Festival - German-Style Hefeweizen

2003 SILVER MEDAL
Great American Beer Festival - German-Style Hefeweizen

BlackBeard Spiced Rum

20110916:
This rum had a nice taste. It was smooth. 7:16 PM ET

[20111001][20180708 Edit][Part of Rum Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Website Information:

THE TASTE:
Rum aged 12-18 months in American white oak barrels is combined with the finest blend of Caribbean spices including vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Proof:
86 proof, 43% ALC/VOL

Sizes:
1.75L, 1L, 750ml, 50ml

AWARDS
94/100 Points
Outstanding A+
Patterson's Tasting Panel

4.5 STARS
Highly Recommended
F. Paul Pacult SPirit Journal

Rum Jumbie Vanilla Splash

20110916:
This rum smells like vanilla. It tastes great! 7:16 PM ET

[20111001][20180708 Edit][Part of Rum Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Relevant Links:
Rum Jumbie Website

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Website Information:

Vanilla Splash

Rum Jumbie Splash is the ultimate blend of the finest Caribbean Rum infused with natural fruit flavors. Nurtured by the warmth of the Caribbean sun, only the best sugar cane rum is selected to create this harmonious tropical spirit. On the rocks, with fruit juice or your mixer of choice, open up Rum Jumbie Spash and unleash the Caribbean Spirit.

- Clear, vanilla-flavored rum distilled from molasses.
- Bottled at 24% alcohol by volume.

Rum Jumbie Coconut Splash

20110916:
This rum had a fantastic coconut smell. Even without the smell, the rum had a strong flavor. 7:16 PM ET

[20111001][20180708 Edit][Part of Rum Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Relevant Links:
Rum Jumbie Website

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Website Information:

Coconut Splash

Rum Jumbie Splash is the ultimate blend of the finest Caribbean Rum infused with natural fruit flavors. Nurtured by the warmth of the Caribbean sun, only the best sugar cane rum is selected to create this harmonious tropical spirit. On the rocks, with fruit juice or your mixer of choice, open up Rum Jumbie Spash and unleash the Caribbean Spirit.

- Clear, coconut-flavored rum distilled from molasses.
- Bottled at 24% alcohol by volume.

Rum Jumbie Pineapple Splash

20110916:
This rum tasted more interesting than the Mango Splash. It definitely smelled like pineapple. 7:16 PM ET

[20111001][20180708 Edit][Part of Rum Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Relevant Links:
Rum Jumbie Website

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Website Information:

Pineapple Splash

Rum Jumbie Splash is the ultimate blend of the finest Caribbean Rum infused with natural fruit flavors. Nurtured by the warmth of the Caribbean sun, only the best sugar cane rum is selected to create this harmonious tropical spirit. On the rocks, with fruit juice or your mixer of choice, open up Rum Jumbie Spash and unleash the Caribbean Spirit.

- Clear, pineapple-flavored rum distilled from molasses.
- Bottled at 24% alcohol by volume.

Rum Jumbie Mango Splash

20110916:
This rum doesn't taste quite like mango, but I don't know what it tastes like. 7:16 PM ET

[20111001][20180708 Edit][Part of Rum Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Relevant Links:
Rum Jumbie Website

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Website Information:

Mango Splash

Rum Jumbie Splash is the ultimate blend of the finest Caribbean Rum infused with natural fruit flavors. Nurtured by the warmth of the Caribbean sun, only the best sugar cane rum is selected to create this harmonious tropical spirit. On the rocks, with fruit juice or your mixer of choice, open up Rum Jumbie Spash and unleash the Caribbean Spirit.

- Clear, mango-flavored rum distilled from molasses.
- Bottled at 24% alcohol by volume.

Troegs Sunshine Pils

20110914:
I wrote: "Troegs Sunshine Pils 5.3%. Bad smell. Too bitter. Maybe it went bad. Strong bite. Overly carbonated? Carbonation lost at end, but still bitter in a bad way." 4:39 pm

[20111010]

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Troegs Sunshine Pils

Relevant Links:
Troegs Sunshine Pils (BeerAdvocate.com)
Troegs Brewing Company Yes/No
Troegs Sunshine Pils (Troegs Brewing Company)
Troegs Sunshine Pils (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Tröegs Sunshine Pils®

Alcohol by Volume: 5.3%
Hop Bitterness (IBU's): 45
Color (SRM): Straw/ Golden
Availability: Seasonal
Malts: Pilsner, Crystal
Hops: Saaz, Mitt. Hallertau
Yeast: Lager
Seasonal Release (April - August)

TASTING NOTES
Hop fans rejoice! Sunshine Pils combines the crisp taste of European style pilsners with a kicked-up hop character to create a balanced, refreshing seasonal beer. Golden in color with a fluffy white head, Sunshine Pils is the perfect beer for Summer.

FOOD COMPLIMENTS
Since Sunshine Pils is a Summer beer, it is a fine compliment with all types of salads. It also pairs well with all shell fish and mild fish filets.
Serving Suggestions:
Temp: 40-45º F Glassware: Pilsner Flute

NEWS & AWARDS
2009 Great American Beer Festival - Bronze Medal - German style Pilsner
2008 World Beer Cup - Bronze Medal - German Style Pils

Boulder Beer Mojo IPA

20110911:
I wrote: "C.K. recommended glass because for this beer it makes a big difference. I smell orange and spiciness. Smell the grassy or piney scent of the IPA. Little head, doesn't last long. That's a pretty great tasting IPA. Either I'm back to not tasting bitterness or this is really easy to drink for an IPA. I guess it's a light tasting IPA? Which is nice. Considering my recent change in preferences for beers. Oh yeah the piney taste. I like it. 7.2 ABV." 2:04 pm

[20110928]

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20120829:
I wrote: "Tastes great. Decently sweet. Easy to drink. Doesn't have the typical IPA taste, which is good for those that dislike IPAs, but bad for those that like IPAs."
*Might actually be the instant comment for 20120905

[20121024]

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20120905:
I wrote: "Mostly tasty. There's a bitterness, but it's also sweet. As it warms up, I can taste more of the alcohol and feel a slight burning sensation." 4:33 PM
*Might actually be the instant comment for 20120829

[20121005]

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Boulder Beer Mojo IPA

Relevant Links:
Mojo IPA (BeerAdvocate.com)
Boulder Beer Website

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Website Information:

MOJO INDIA PALE ALE
MOJO: N. 1: A MAGIC SPELL OR CHARM; MAGICAL POWER; 2. A HERBACEOUS ALE THAT SUMMONS HOP ATTACKS. PALE IN COLOR, BUT PACKED WITH FLAVOR, MOJO REFLECTS THE PERFECT BALANCE OF HOP BITTERNESS AND MALT CHARACTER. THE UNIQUE AMARILLO HOP CREATES A BIG CITRUS FLAVOR WITH AN ULTRA-CRISP DRY FINISH.

BREWER'S NOTES:
GRAINS: PALE MALT, WHEAT MALT AND 20L CARAMEL MALT
HOPS: AMARILLO AND CENTENNIAL
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 6.8%

Guinness Black Lager

20110911:
I wrote: "Couldn't smell much. Strong carbonated feel. Second sip around, the chocolate taste was there. Very drinkable. Hmm... Good, but not special." 1:31 pm

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Guinness Black Lager

Relevant Links:
Guinness Black Lager (BeerAdvocate.com)
Guinness Black Lager (Wikipedia.org)
Guinness Black Lager (RateBeer.com)
My Drink Guinness Extra Stout, Guinness Draught post.

Maneki Neko at Sakura Steakhouse

20110909:
I went to Sakura Steakhouse today and to drink I ordered a specialty drink called Maneki Neko.

Menu Description:
Maneki Neko A Zesty Sensation Blending Rum, Plum wine and Vodka with a Hint of Lemon

I wrote the following: "This drink is thick, smooth, and delicious... The flavor mostly comes from the plum wine... It's good and tasty." 8:54 pm

I only had to pay $4.75 for the drink, because it came in a regular cup. I guess to get the mug, then you have to pay $8.95.

[20110921][20180620 Edit]

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Maneki Neko

Relevant Links:
SAKURA Website

Samuel Adams Boston Lager

20110908:
I was finishing up from modern dance when Vitaly called me up and asked if I wanted to go eat and catch the Saints vs. Packers game. CVP (Charles Village Pub) was packed, and so we went to Ledo Pizza next door.

(20140312)

I wrote: "Not much smell. Either I'm really thirsty or this Boston Lager is good and drinkable. Refreshing. Ok simple. Slight subtle bitterness. Doesn't linger." 9:33 pm

[20110921]

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20120517:
I wrote: "I wrote: "[Monk's Blood]. In contrast the Sam Adams is drinkable and while not particularly special, it is refreshing." 6:59 PM

(20110908)

[20120613]

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20140409:
I wrote: "Meh, I drank half of this Boston Lager and decided not to drink anymore." 4:34PM ET

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Samuel Adams Boston Lager

(20140409)

Relevant Links:
Samuel Adams Boston Lager (Samuel Adams Website)
Samuel Adams Boston Lager (BeerAdvocate.com)
Samuel Adams Boston Lager (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

About:
Complex and balanced with a beautiful hop aroma.

Samuel Adams Boston Lager® is an excellent example of the fundamentals of a great beer, offering a full, rich flavor that is both balanced and complex. that unique flavor is the result of a perfect combination of our signature hand selected ingredients and a traditional four vessel brewing process.

Samuel Adams Boston Lager uses only the finest ingredients including two-row malted barley and Bavarian Noble hops. The sole use of two-row barley not only imparts a full, smooth body but also gives the beer a wide spectrum of malt flavor ranging from slightly sweet to roasted.

We also take great pride in the Noble hops we use. They’re hand selected by Jim Koch and our brewers from the world’s oldest hop growing areas. Although they are among the most expensive hops, their unmistakable aroma and taste is essential to Samuel Adams Boston Lager. The Noble hop varieties of Hallertau Mittelfrueh and Tettnang Tettnanger add a wide range of floral, piney and citrus notes, which are present from the aroma, through the taste, and all the way to the lingering smooth finish.

Brewing:
Samuel Adams Boston Lager is brewed using two-row Harrington, Metcalfe, and Copeland pale malts, and Caramel 60 malt, as well as the Noble hop varieties of Hallertau Mittelfrueh and Tettnang Tettnanger. The traditional brewing processes, including decoction mash (a four vessel process) and krausening (a secondary fermentation), allow the large quantities of these ingredients to come together and form layers of complex flavor. Towards the end of the process the beer is also dry hopped using the Hallertau Mittelfrueh hops for an enhanced hop signature in the aroma and finish. The process may be labor intensive but it’s essential in developing the distinct balanced full flavor of Samuel Adams Boston Lager.

Profile:
Flavor: Full bodied and complex. Caramel sweetness balanced with distinct citrus and piney notes. A strong, smooth finish and mouth feel.
Color: A deep amber to golden, 11 SRM
Original Gravity:13° Plato
Alcohol by Vol/Wt: 4.9%ABV - 3.8%ABW
Calories/12oz: 175
IBUs: 30
Malt Varieties: Two-row Harrington, Metcalfe, and Copeland pale malts, and Caramel 60
Hop Varieties: Hallertau Mittelfrueh and Tettnang Tettnanger Noble hops
Yeast Strain: Samuel Adams lager yeast
First Brewed: 1984

Food Pairing:
A great steak has all of the wonderful rich, sweet, and savory flavors that pair perfectly with Samuel Adams Boston Lager.

Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale

20110907:
I wrote: "Tire Bite Golden Ale 5.1% 16.5 IBU. High carbonated feel. Eh. Its alright. Slightly hoppy. Small bitter aftertaste with carbonation aftertaste." 4:17 pm

[20110915]

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20120121:
I agree with my original opinion. This beer is simply alright. Actually, perhaps worse than alright. I don't really detect any flavors in the beer. I guess the adjective for that is bland. Just slightly hoppy with a slight bitter and dry aftertaste.

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Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale

Relevant Links:
Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale (Flying Dog Website)
Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

BREWER BREAKDOWN:
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 5.1%
AVAILABILITY: Year-round in select areas
HOP BITTERNESS: 16.5 IBU
PLATO: 11.5
HOPS: German Perle, Hallertau
YEAST: Proprietary Lager Strain

FOOD PAIRINGS:
Tire Bite is a clean, crisp beer allows the flavors of your food to shine through.

Flavor notes: Slight biscuit, toasted malt flavor balanced with subtle hop bitterness

Pairs with: Spring rolls, salads, seafood; chicken; Provolone or Monterey Jack cheese; potato soup

New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale

20101231:
"This New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale is alright. It's not as good as the Haywire Hefeweizen."

[20110130]

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20110905:
Prior to having a New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale I had a New Belgium Hoptober Golden Ale.

I wrote: "Compared to the Hoptober, the Fat Tire has less of a smell, less of a piney taste, and less of a taste in general. Overall, it has a lighter taste than the Hoptober. It's possible that the Hoptober diminished the taste of the Fat Tire. I think I'd prefer drinking the hoppier Hoptober over the lighter Fat Tire." 10:48 PM

The bike has snow on it!* (20111223)

*None of my pictures turned out. Luckily, I gave my friend a bottle of New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale before I left back to MD. My thanks to him for taking the above picture for me.

[20110916]

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20111223:
I wrote: "New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale. Good stuff. Has sort of a stout taste. Good." 8:47 PM PST

[20120117]

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20140412:
After having a bottle of Rogue Dead Guy Ale, I opened up a bottle of New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale.

I wrote: "New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale. This beer is more carbonated than the Rogue Dead Guy and I guess it tastes more like an average tasting beer."

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New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale

Relevant Links:
Fat Tire Amber Ale (New Belgium Website)
Fat Tire Amber Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
New Belgium Website Yes/No

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Website Information:

Named in honor of our co-founder's bike trip through Europe, Fat Tire Amber Ale marks a turning point in the young electrical engineer's home brewing. Belgian beers use a far broader palette of ingredients (fruits, spices, esoteric yeast strains) than German or English styles. Together with co-founder, Kim Jordan, they traveled around sampling their homebrews to the public. Fat Tire won fans with its sense of balance: toasty, biscuit-like malt flavors coasting in equilibrium with hoppy freshness.

Just the facts Ma'am...
ABV - 5.2%
IBU - 18.5
Calories - 155
Hops - Willamette, Goldings, Target
Malts - Pale, C-80, Munich, Victory
OG - 12.6
TG - 2.2