2012 Anchor Christmas Ale

20121226:
I wrote: "Huh. This has a real interesting smell. Perhaps it smells like caramel. Huh. Its more bitter tasting now. I find last year's tasting better. We'll see if the taste changes over the course of drinking it." 8:34PM PT
I wrote: "It still smells really nice. Maybe there's something I ate which is throwing off the taste. On a different note, it seems like the beer might have high amounts of nutmeg, or something familiar." 8:52PM PT

[20121227]

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2012 Anchor Christmas Ale

Relevant Links:
2012 Anchor Christmas Ale (Anchor Steam Website)
Our Special Ale 2012 (Anchor Christmas Ale) (BeerAdvocate.com)

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Website Information:

CHRISTMAS ALE

2012 Anchor Christmas Ale. New tree. New recipe. Same traditions.

Each year since 1975, Anchor Brewing creates a distinctive Christmas Ale, available from early November to mid-January. A rich, dark spiced ale, our secret recipe is different every year—as is the tree on the label—but the intent remains the same: joy and celebration of the newness of life.

Since ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. Our tree for 2012 is the Norfolk Island pine. Captain Cook discovered this South Seas isle and its native tree in 1774. These tropical-looking conifers, which thrive in sandy soil and coastal climes, were first planted in California in the 1850s. The Norfolk Island pine on this year’s label, hand drawn from life, resides in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.

Each year our Christmas Ale gets a unique label and a unique recipe. Although our recipes must remain a secret, many save a few bottles from year to year. Properly refrigerated, the beer remains intriguing and drinkable for years. Different nuances emerge as the flavor mellows slightly, much like the memories of great holiday seasons past. Celebrate the holidays with Anchor Christmas Ale, an Anchor tradition since 1975.

FIRST BREW: 1975
FIRST BOTTLING: 1975
ALC. BY VOLUME: VARIES
AVAILABILITY: NOV.-FEB.
MALT: TOP SECRET
HOPS: TOP SECRET

Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock

20121224:
I wrote: "Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock. Has more of an alcoholic scent. It's drinkable. I barely detect the taste of chocolate. Overall the beer reminds me of Guinness Black Lager. Like the Black Lager, I think this beer is just alright." 10:34PM PT

[20121227]

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Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock

Relevant Links:
Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock (Samuel Adams Website)
Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock (BeerAdvocate.com)
Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Flavor: Distinct aroma of chocolate, toffee and malt. Tastes slightly sweet, full bodied with a finish of fine chocolate.
Color: Deep rich brown, 75 SRM
Original Gravity: 17.1° Plato
Alcohol by Vol/Wt: 5.8%ABV – 4.5%ABW
Calories/12 oz.: 237
IBUs: 11
Malt Varieties: Samuel Adams two-row pale malt blend, Caramel 60, Carafa, and Munich 10
Hop Varieties: Hallertau Mittelfrueh Noble hops
Special Ingredient: cocoa nibs from Ghana, Ecuador, and Madagascar
Yeast Strain: Samuel Adams lager yeast
Availability: Seasonal (Nov. - Jan.) in the Winter Classics Variety Pack
First Brewed: 2003

Goose Island Christmas Ale

20121224:
At dinner (dad made roast beef) I split half a bottle with my dad. I recall he said he liked it. I had my mom try a sip as well and I wasn't sure what to expect, though I was leaning towards her finding it bitter. Surprisingly, she didn't think it was bitter at all and liked the taste of it.

I wrote: "Goose Island Christmas Ale. I don't know how to describe it. It certainly smells good and tastes great. I was expecting more spices. Regardless, it is well-balanced. Actually, I remember when I first sipped it. It was more like a brown ale. But then near the end of the tasting, it was more like a pale ale." 7:24PM PT

Later, I had two friends over and split my second and only other bottle of Goose Island Christmas Ale into three portions.

I wrote: "Goose Island Christmas Ale. Oh the smell is something like nutmeg. Floral perfume. Sweet smelling. Oh maybe caramel. When its warm its taste is spicier. It still tastes delicious even when warm, unlike many other beers which have a stronger taste, but are unbearable when warm." 11:19PM PT

[20121227]

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Goose Island Christmas Ale

Relevant Links:
Christmas Ale (Goose Island Website)
Goose Island Christmas Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Goose Island Christmas Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Christmas Ale

Brewer's Notes:
Every year to celebrate the holiday season, we brew up our Christmas Ale, and with each year we change the recipe slightly so that you have something special to look forward to.

Recipe Information:
Style: Brown Ale
Alcohol by Volume: 7.3
International Bitterness Units: Change year to year
Color: Chocolate
Hops: Change year to year
Malt: Pale, Munich, Caramel

Serving Suggestions:
Preferred Glass: Nonic
Food Pairings: Ham, Turkey, Lamb
Cheese Pairings: Aged Gouda, Dry Jack
Cellaring Notes: 180 days
Availability:
Seasonal (November - December)
Bottles: 6, 12 & 24pks
Draft: 1/6 & 1/2bbl

World Beer Cup Recognition:
Judging Category: American Brown Ale
2010: Bronze Medal

Southern Tier Old Man Winter Ale

20121207:
I wrote: "This Old Man Winter Ale is certainly a pale ale. Hoppy. Mildly grassy. It's nice and easy. I like it." 8:15PM ET

Menu Description:
Old Man Winter. A rich and complex amalgam of hops and barley that will put the feeling back in your toes and lift your spirits above the snow. 7.2%

[20121215]

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Southern Tier Old Man Winter Ale

Relevant Links:
Old Man Winter Ale (Southern Tier Website)
Old Man (Winter Ale) (BeerAdvocate.com)
Southern Tier Old Man Winter Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

OLD MAN WINTER

Our winter offering is here to quell your shivers and get you through the coldest of nights. A rich marriage of hops and barley to cast light upon the evening and melt your mind out of snowdrifts. Old Man Winters earthy hue and thickness lace around the glass, inviting you to linger in its warmth and share the spirits of the season with your friends and family. A deceptively strong brew, its best to sit and ponder with this old man, sip by sip.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Particularly tasty when paired with roasted meats, game, hearty stews, winter squash, rich cheese.

AVAILABILITY: Release begins in November / 12oz (6pk and 24 bottle cases) / 1/2 keg, 1/6 keg

ABOUT THE BEER
STYLE: Old Ale
BREWED SINCE: 2003
ABV: 7.0%
FERMENTATION: Ale yeast, three varieties of hops & two types of malts
COLOR: Brown, ruby hues
EFFERVESCENCE: Light carbonation
NOSE: Roasted malts, a touch of smoke, pepper, some floral hops
FLAVOR: Hints of bittersweet cocoa, nutty, defined malts and balancing hops, earthy
BITTERNESS: Medium
BODY: Medium-bodied, hearty
SERVING TEMPERATURE: 50-55°F
GLASS: Pint glass, snifter, oversized wine glass
AVAILABILITY: Release begins in November / 12oz (6pk and 24 bottle cases) / 1/2 keg, 1/6 keg
CELLARING: 40-45°F

Vodka, Orange Vodka, Curaçao, Red Bull

20121204:
I was at Red Maple for dance lessons but I got there early and ordered a drink. I searched for a random mixed drink on my phone and found one called an Ice Bomb whose recipe called for the following:

2 oz UV® blue raspberry vodka
2 oz orange vodka
2 oz vodka
1 to 2 oz Sprite® soda

However, the bartender at Red Maple didn't have any blue raspberry and substituted Curaçao and Svedka vodka. He also suggested Red Bull in place of Sprite. I was cool with that recommendation. As such, I was given the following:

some Curaçao
2 oz orange vodka
2 to 4 oz vodka
1 can Red Bull

I wrote the following: "I liked how the drink turned out." 9:39 PM

[20121214]

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Made from Laraha, Curaçao has an orange-like flavor, but bitter.

[20150921]

Abita Pecan Harvest Ale

20121130:
I wrote: "Abita Pecan smells fresh. Haha. Mouthfeel is extra crispy. While I don't know what a pecan beer should taste like, I don't really taste much of anything." 6:41 PM

I wrote: "The beer must be extra cold. I begin to get some taste as the beer warms. Regardless, it is still just an average experience. It's not great, but it's not bad either." 6:47 PM

[20121202]

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Abita Pecan Harvest Ale

Relevant Links:
Abita Pecan Harvest Ale (Abita Website)
Abita Pecan Harvest Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Abita Pecan Harvest Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Pecan
Abita Pecan® Harvest Ale is brewed with pale, Munich, biscuit and caramel malts and Willamette hops. Real Louisiana roasted pecans are added in the brewhouse and give the ale a subtle nutty flavor and aroma. Crack one open for yourself.

This ale is excellent served with both red meat, seafood and, no surprise here, it’s also great with nuts! Try Pecan® Harvest Ale with Gouda cheese.

Suggested temperature: 44°
Suggested glassware: pint, flute, snifter or tulip

Beer Profile
ABV 5.2%
IBU 20
Color 19

Nutrition Facts
Calories 150
Carbs 11g
Protein 2.6g
Total Fat 0g

Packaging 6 Pack Bottles

Shiner Prickly Pear

20121128:
I wrote: "This Shiner Prickly Pear is tasty and refreshing. It smells great. Like cherry or gum. I don't know what prickly pear tastes or smells like. This is a good solid beer." 4:28 PM

[20121204]

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Shiner Prickly Pear

Relevant Links:
Shiner Prickly Pear (BeerAdvocate.com)
Shiner Prickly Pear (RateBeer.com)

Widmer Brothers Kill Devil Brown Ale

20121122:
I wrote: "The Kill Devil Brown Ale smells strong. Its taste is less strong than its smell. Sweet, strong, and spicy." 6:51 PM ET

[20121206]

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Widmer Brothers Kill Devil Brown Ale

Relevant Links:
Kill Devil Brown Ale (Widmer Brothers Website)
Kill Devil Brown Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Widmer Brothers Kill Devil Brown Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

KILL DEVIL BROWN ALE
BROTHERS RESERVE #6

KILL DEVIL BROWN ALE'S FLAVOR COME FROM THE USE OF INGREDIENTS TRADITIONALLY USED BY CARIBBEAN DISTILLERS. SWEET BARBADOS AND BLACKSTRAP MOLASSES PROVIDE TOUCHES OF TOASTED SUGAR, BLACK LICORICE AND BLACKENED TOFFEE WHILE THE PALM SUGARS INVITE NOTES OF SUBTLE SWEETNESS. AS THE BEER CONDITIONS IN PUERTO RICAN RUM BARRELS, THE VANILLA AND SUBTLE OAK FLAVORS AND AROMAS DEVELOP AND INTEGRATE WITH THE CALYPSO HOPS' SOFT TROPICAL AND STONE FRUIT AROMAS.

AVAILABILITY: LIMITED RELEASE
BITTERNESS: 30 IBU
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 9.5%
ORIGINAL GRAVITY: 21 PLATO
MALTS: PALE, MARIS OTTER, AROMATIC, CARAMEL 10-L, EXTRA SPECIAL
HOPS: ALCHEMY, CAPYPSO

Elysian Peste Chocolate Chili Ale

Elysian Peste Chocolate Chili Ale. Delicious!

20121122:
I wrote: "Elysian Peste Chocolate Chili Ale. Spiciness. It's so good. I don't really detect the chocolate, but the beer smells like a standard stout. I sense most of the spiciness upon swallowing. In contrast, I taste the chocolate and stout-like flavors as the beer sits on my tongue." 5:53 PM ET

[20121206]

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Elysian Peste Chocolate Chili Ale

Relevant Links:
Elysian Website
Peste Chocolate Chili Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Elysian 12 Beers of Apocalypse #4 - Peste Chocolate Chili Ale (RateBeer.com)

Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock

20121114:
I wrote: "Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock has a funny taste. Though not bad." 5:32PM ET

[20121118]

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Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock

Relevant Links:
Blonde Bock (Gordon Biersch Website)
Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock (BeerAdvocate.com)
Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:
Blonde Bock
Bock beers are represented by a male goat, which in German lore symbolizes strength and virility. In accordance with the Reinheitsgebot (German Purity Law of 1516), bock beers must have a pre-fermentation malt sugar concentration of 16%, which converts over to at least 7% alcohol after fermentation. These strong beers were made popular in the early 1600's by monks in order to minimize their hunger during fasting periods. While most bocks are dark, Blonde Bock is golden-colored and malty with a rich, creamy head. The rich flavor is counterbalanced with just the right level of bitterness from the Hallertau aroma hops and create a very smooth profile.

Alcohol Volume: 7%
Bitterness: 23 IBU
Residual Sugar: 3%
Yeast Strain: Weihenstephan 34/70
Hops: Hallertau aroma

Dominion Oak Barrel Stout

20110511:
Today I drank an Old Dominion Oak Barrel Stout while at a Beirut concert. Prior to the Oak Barrel Stout, I had a LandShark Lager and a sweet tea vodka and lemonade.

In any case, I thought the Oak Barrel Stout was chocolaty. I tried to think about how the beer compares to Guinness, but I just couldn't. My friends, John and Lauren, said that Guinness was heavy relative to its smoothness.

[20110522,3][20150117 Edit]

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20121114:
I wrote: "Oak Barrel Stout. I like this type of stout: strong roasted and chocolate flavors." 5:28PM ET

[20121118]

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Dominion Oak Barrel Stout

(20110511)

Relevant Links:
Our Brews page (Old Dominion Website)
Dominion Oak Barrel Stout (BeerAvocate.com)
Dominion Oak Barrel Stout (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Oak Barrel Stout

We use smoked and peated malts to create an intricate malt foundation. Our method of dry hopping with vanilla beans and oak chips pushes the depth of this stout’s flavor spectrum even further.

6.1% alc/vol
“Best Beer in Delaware” – Delaware News Journal, March 2011
Willamette & Cascade Hops.
Pairs well with oysters, clams, brie cheese & chocolate
Serve in a pint glass at 50-55ºF

Franklin's Pumpkin Pie Stout

20121113:
I wrote: "I can't pick up on the pumpkin. Well maybe a little. But it's a solid stout. I'd say on par with Guinness." 7:12PM ET
I wrote: "I detected more pumpkin on the final sip. The pulled pork was delicious." 9:05PM ET

Menu Description:
Pumpkin Pie Stout Enjoy a taste of this season with this nitro stout that blends pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. No whipped cream needed. 6.0% ABV $5.00

[20121118]

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Franklin's Pumpkin Pie Stout

Relevant Links:
Pumpkin Pie Stout (Franklin's Brewery Blog)
Pumpkin Pie Stout (BeerAdvocate.com)
Franklins Pumpkin Pie Stout
Franklin's Restaurant, Brewery & General Store Website
Franklin's Restaurant, Brewery & General Store - Hyattsville, MD (Yelp.com)

2008 Donna Laura Bramosia Chianti Classico

20121108:
Eating at La Famiglia.

I wrote the following: "Strong taste. A little astringent. Er. No, its a sour taste with a sour aftertaste. Very strong attack on the tongue. But not too bitter, after a couple of sips. More sourness involved." 6:15PM ET

[20121118]

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2008 Donna Laura Bramosia Chianti Classico

Relevant Links:
2008 Donna Laura Bramosia Chianti Classico (CellarTracker.com)
Donna Laura Bramosia Chianti Classico DOCG 2008 (Snooth.com)

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Website Information (CellarTracker.com):

Vintage 2008
Type Red
Producer Donna Laura Bramosia
Variety Sangiovese Blend
Designation n/a
Vineyard n/a
Country Italy
Region Tuscany
SubRegion Chianti
Appellation Chianti Classico DOCG

Boulder Beer Flashback

20121107:
I wrote: "This Boulder Beer Flashback smells and tastes great. But it doesn't taste like an IPA at all. That's fine by me." 3:58PM ET
I wrote: "Oh, it's actually an India Brown Ale. That explains it." 4:22PM ET

[20121118]

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Boulder Beer Flashback India Brown Ale

Relevant Links:
Flashback India Brown Ale (Boulder Beer Website)
Flashback Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Boulder Beer Flashback Anniversary Ale (RateBeer.com)

My Boulder Beer Mojo IPA post

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Website Information:

Flashback India Brown Ale
Brewed using five separate hop additions, Flashback India Brown Ale boasts a citrusy flavor with a prominent hop aroma. Flashback finishes crisp and dry, with dark roasted flavors from the biscuit and chocolate malts perfectly complementing the bountiful Cascade hops. Originally brewed to commemorate our milestone 30th Anniversary, Flashback India Brown Ale earned a spot in our year-round line-up. Flash back to 1979 and you’ll find two professors at the University of Colorado in Boulder testing the entrepreneurial waters with a little project called a microbrewery. From the original Bitter, Porter and Stout recipes that founded our brewery, to our exciting new releases, Boulder Beer continues to uphold our tradition of innovation in brewing. 6.8% ABV

2007 Fattoria La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt

20121106:
I wrote: "The smell is dark and strong. It smells rich and I prepare myself mentally for a strong bitterness. However, the taste is actually really smooth. It has a nice aftertaste. It's delicious." 7:25PM ET

[20121118]

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2007 Fattoria La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt

Relevant Links:
2007 Fattoria La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt (CellarTracker.com)

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Website Information:

Spelt Montepulciano D'Abruzzo doc

TYPE: RED | REGION: Abruzzo | VARIETY: Montepulciano | VINTAGE: 2007

VINEYARD FEATURES:
MUNICIPALITY: Spoltore, San Valentino, Scafa
SURFACE AREA: selection on 20 hectares
ALTITUDE: from 150 to 400 meters a.s. l
ASPECT: South-southwest facing
SOIL COMPOSITION: medium density clay
TRAINING SYSTEM: tendone
DENSITY: 1600 – 2000 vines per hectare
AGE OF VINEYARDS:from 27 years old
AVERAGE YIELD: 50 hl/ectare
HARVESTING: manual

PRODUCTION: 43,000 750 ml bottles, 1,5 l and 6 l bottles

VINIFICATION
Fermentation and maceration with délestage, for roughly three weeks in vertical (temperature controlled) stainless steel vats. After alcoholic fermentation, the wines are transferred into 25hl oak barrels, new and used barriques where spontaneous malolactic fermentation takes place. After approximately 18 months, a careful selection, barrel by barrel is made. The wine is blended and bottled unfiltered one year before release.

TASTING NOTES
You are first struck by the beautiful rich ruby red. It is firm and opens with hints of mediterranean spices though a pleasant, earthy, mineral tone can already be noted. There is also a hint of chocolate, promising great development. It is powerful to the mouth - a rush of sensations without losing quality and suggestions of blackcurrant and mulberry wait to combine with traces of coffee and cocoa. It overwhelms the palate with rich, balsamic emotions, which are followed by light touches of wet graphite. It can be shared with roast mountain lamb in aromatic herbs or served with wild mushroom polenta with basil.

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Website Information (CellarTracker.com):

Vintage 2007
Type Red
Producer Fattoria La Valentina (web)
Variety Montepulciano
Designation Spelt
Vineyard n/a
Country Italy
Region Abruzzi
SubRegion n/a
Appellation Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Alaskan White

20121103:
I wrote: "Alaskan White smells light and tasty. Very drinkable. Refreshing." 6:15PM ET

[20121118]

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Alaskan White

Relevant Links:
Alaskan White (Alaskan Brewing Co. Website)
Alaskan White
Alaskan White Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

ALASKAN WHITE,
WHEAT ALE

STYLE:
Alaskan White Ale is based on a Belgian-style witbier, literally translated to "white beer." White beers, or "witbieren," are named for the suspended wheat proteins creating a cloudy appearance in this unfiltered beer.

FLAVOR PROFILE:
Alaskan White Ale has a soft, slightly sweet base with the unique spice aroma of coriander and crisp, citrus finish of orange peel. A light and effervescent body combined with the smooth palate creates a complex and delicate beer that is deliciously refreshing in any season.

HISTORY:
Popular in late 18th century Belgium before the universal use of hops as a bittering agent, Witbieren were traditionally flavored with coriander, citrus and a secret spice known only to the brewer. Alaskan Brewing recreates this historic style with Alaskan White Ale.

INGREDIENTS:
Alaskan White Ale is made from glacier-fed water and a generous blend of the finest quality European and Pacific Northwest hop varieties, wheat and two-row specialty malts. Our water originates in the 1,500 square-mile Juneau Ice Field and from the more than 90 inches of rainfall Juneau receives each year.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
The crisp flavor of Alaskan White Ale pairs well with spicy foods and lighter fare including fresh salads and grilled shrimp or halibut.

THE STORY BEHIND THE LABEL:
Polar bears are native to the Arctic Ocean and can be found traversing through the snow, ice and open waters along the northern coastlines of Alaska. Although closely related to the brown bears of Alaska, the polar bear is classified as a marine mammal adapted to the icy climate of the Arctic. Alaskan White Ale toasts this extraordinary bear and its place at the top of the world.

AWARDS:
2011 Los Angeles County Fair Bronze Medal Herb and Spice Beer
2011 Denver Intl Beer Competition Bronze Medal Witbiers
2010 Great Arizona Beer Festival Third Place Best of Festival
2009 European Beer Star Award Silver Medal Herb and Spice Beer
2009 US Open Beer Championship Silver Medal Belgian Witbier
2009 West Coast Brew Fest Bronze Medal Wheat Beer

SPECIFICATIONS:
Original Gravity: 1.048
ABV 5.3%
Bitterness: 15 IBU
Color: 7 SRM

Blue Moon Winter Abbey Ale

20121031:
I wrote: "This Blue Moon Winter Abbey Ale is just so-so. While I can't say for sure, I believe I would certainly prefer Blue Moon Belgium White over the Abbey Ale. I wonder if this beer would have been better with an orange slice." 4:28 PM ET

[20121206]

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Blue Moon Winter Abbey Ale

Relevant Links:
Winter Abbey Ale (Blue Moon Website)
Blue Moon Winter Abbey Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Blue Moon Winter Abbey Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Ingredients and Profile
Malts: Pale, Winter White Wheat, Chocolate
Hops: Mittelfruh
Our Twist: Dark Belgian Candi Sugar
IBUs: 16
Original Gravity: 14º Plato
ABV: 5.6%

Appearance
Chestnut brown-colored ale with brilliant clarity and a rich, white head.

Aroma
Like the season, there’s a lot to take in. Starts with a malty nuttiness with notes of dark chocolate and toffee. A hint of hops swirls in the background.

Taste
The taste starts with assertive malty caramel notes with a touch of dark chocolate. It’s quickly balanced with a small amount of hop bitterness to keep the malt sweetness from building up.

Mouthfeel
A medium-bodied winter ale with a medium level of carbonation for balance.

Finish
Rich toffee and caramel finish with a hint of bitter dark chocolate.

Elysian Blight Pumpkin Ale

20121027:
I wrote: "Oh my goodness, I love this pumpkin ale. It definitely tastes like pumpkin. It is possibly the best pumpkin beer I've ever had. It's probably more deliciously spicy than other pumpkin ales I've had. It tastes like pumpkin pie." 8:56 PM ET

[20121206]

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Elysian Blight Pumpkin Ale

Relevant Links:
Blight Pumpkin Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Elysian 12 Beers of Apocalypse #9 - Blight Pumpkin Ale (RateBeer.com)

NV Scotto Cellars Rare Red 4 Grape Blend

20121027:

[20180707][Part of Beer and Wine Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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NV Scotto Cellars Rare Red 4 Grape Blend

Relevant Links:
NV Scotto Cellars Rare Red 4 Grape Blend (CellarTracker.com)

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Website Information: (CellarTracker.com)

VintageNV
TypeRed
ProducerScotto Cellars
VarietyRed Blend
DesignationRare Red 4 Grape Blend
Vineyardn/a
CountryUSA
RegionCalifornia
SubRegionCentral Valley
AppellationLodi
UPC/EAN Code684586204085

2010 Mommy's Time Out Puglia IGT

20121027:

[20180707][Part of Beer and Wine Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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2010 Mommy's Time Out Puglia IGT

Relevant Links:
2010 Mommy's Time Out Puglia IGT (Cellar Tracker.com)

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Website Information: (CellarTracker.com)

Vintage2010
TypeRed
ProducerMommy's Time Out
VarietyPrimitivo
Designationn/a
Vineyardn/a
CountryItaly
RegionPuglia
SubRegionn/a
AppellationPuglia IGT

Elysian Ruin Rosemary Agave IPA

20121027:
No specific comments.

[20180707][Part of Beer and Wine Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Elysian Ruin Rosemary Agave IPA

Relevant Links:
Elysian 12 Beers of Apocalypse #5 - Ruin Rosemary Agave IPA (RateBeer.com)
Ruin Rosemary Agave IPA | Elysian Brewing Company (BeerAdvocate.com)

Elysian Torrent Pale Beet Bock

20121027:

[20180707][Part of Beer and Wine Tasting at Eddie's Liquor]

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Elysian Torrent Pale Beet Bock

Relevant Links:
Elysian 12 Beers of Apocalypse #7 - Torrent Pale Beet Bock (RateBeer.com)
Torrent Pale Beet Bock | Elysian Brewing (BeerAdvocate.com)

Peach Schnapps, Sour Apple, Sprite

20121026:
I wrote: "The lime garnish really helps round it out." 11:34PM ET

[20130321]

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Recipe:
Hiram Walker Peach Schnapps
Sour Apple
Sprite
Lime garnish

Gordon Biersch FestBier

20121024:
I wrote: "Gordon Biersch FestBier is simple. My thoughts on it are neutral. It's not my usual style of beer. There's a slight bitterness." 4:31PM ET

[20121220]

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Gordon Biersch FestBier

Relevant Links:
Festbier (Gordon Biersch Website)
Gordon Biersch FestBier (BeerAdvocate.com)
Gordon Biersch Festbier (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

FestBier

Gordon Biersch FestBier celebrates fall and the flavor profiles of beers served at the modern day Oktoberfest. Originally, the Oktoberfest was held in the middle of October. The brewers were motivated to increase beer sales and moved the date to the last week of September through the first week of October. At the same time, they created the modern day Oktoberfest beer with a lighter body than Märzen but a more robust, hoppy flavor, resulting in FestBier. The maltiness is created via a combination of dark-roasted Munich malt and pilsner malt, and the hoppy aroma is achieved via the imported Hallertau and Tettnang aroma hops. FestBier is available seasonally from August through October.

Alcohol Volume: 5.6%
Bitterness: 24 IBU
Residual Sugar: 2.7%
Yeast Strain: Weihenstephan 34/70
Hops: Hallertau and Tettnang aroma

Shiner Kosmos Reserve

20121017:
I wrote: "Shiner Kosmos Reserve had some taste at first, but then quickly lost it. It might have even gone to or below the level of Natty Boh or similar." 4:28PM ET

[20121220]

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Shiner Kosmos Reserve

Relevant Links:
Shiner Kosmos Reserve (BeerAdvocate.com)
Shiner Kosmos Reserve (RateBeer.com)

Brewer's Art Sweet Sour(ish) 16

20121012:
I wrote: "Sweet Sour(ish) 16. Dang. Fruity goodness. Kalina says it tastes like raspberry. True. True." 10:24PM ET

Upon ordering a second beer, I also had the opportunity to try a little macaroni and cheese. Absolutely delicious.

[20121220]

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Brewer's Art Sweet Sour(ish) 16

Relevant Links:
The Brewer's Art Website
My Drink Brewer's Art Le Canard post

Brewer's Art Le Canard

20121012:
I wrote: "Le Canard. It has an apple cider smell. There is a similar taste. Drinkable and alcoholic. Wow. It has a strong effect on me." 10:14PM ET

[20121220]

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Brewer's Art Le Canard

Relevant Links:
The Brewer's Art House Beer List
Brewer's Art Le Canard (BeerAdvocate.com)
Brewer's Art Le Canard (RateBeer.com)
The Brewer's Art Website
My Drink Brewer's Art Sweet Sour(ish) 16 post

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Website Information:

Le Canard
A strong, copper-colored ale with a mild, sweet malt character. Brewed with lots of Belgian candi sugar and slowly fermented for a month. Sublime. 8.5%abv

Samuel Adams Hazel Brown

20120926:
I seemed to have snapped a picture of the Samuel Adams Hazel Brown on this date, strongly suggesting I tried the beer, but failed to take any notes on it. This certainly happens from time to time.

[20121223]

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20121010:
I wrote: "This Samuel Adams Hazel Brown tastes like a stout. Smells good too. It's delicious. It's really good." 5:29PM ET

[20121214]

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Samuel Adams Hazel Brown

Relevant Links:
Samuel Adams Hazel Brown (Samuel Adams Website)
Samuel Adams Hazel Brown (BeerAdvocate.com)
Samuel Adams Hazel Brown (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Flavor: Caramel and toffee notes with a slightly sweet maltiness & roasted hazelnut flavor
Color: Rich brown, 28 SRM
Original Gravity: 13° Plato
Alcohol: 5.2%ABV - 4.0%ABW
Calories 12/ oz.: 174
IBUs: 20
Malt Varieties: Samuel Adams two-row pale malt blend, Caramel 60, Dingeman's biscuit, Paul's roasted barley
Hop Varieties: Hallertau Mittelfrueh Noble hops, East Kent Goldings
Yeast Strain: Samuel Adams ale yeast
First Brewed: 2012
Availability: Limited Release in the Harvest Collection Variety Pack

Magic Hat Hocus Pocus

20121010:
I wrote: "This Hocus Pocus is very drinkable. Lightly hoppy. Light beer. Actually perhaps a watery feel." 4:29PM ET

[20121221]

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Magic Hat Hocus Pocus

Relevant Links:
Hocus Pocus (Magic Hat Website)
Magic Hat Hocus Pocus (BeerAdvocate.com)
Magic Hat Hocus Pocus (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Hocus Pocus — Our take on a classic summer ale.
A toast to weeds, rays, and summer haze. It was a light, crisp ale for mowing lawns, hitting lazy fly balls and communing with nature, Hocus Pocus was offered up as a summer sacrifice to cloudless days. Its malty sweetness finished tart and crisp and was best appreciated with a wedge of orange.

TYPE: Summer Ale
YEAST: English Ale
HOPS: Cascade, Columbus
MALTS: Pale, Malted Wheat, Acidulated
ABV: 4.5
GRAVITY: 11.20 Plato
BITTERNESS: 13
SRM: 4.0
AVAILABILITY: Spore-adic - Watch this space

Vodka Cranberry

Also known as a Cape Cod, the drink is a simple combination of vodka and cranberry juice. I've had this drink a couple of times before.

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20121007:
I wrote the following: "Delicious, as usual." 10:56PM ET

[20130323][Part of Drinks at a Friend's Wedding]

Seagrams 7 Whiskey and Orange Juice

20121007:
I wrote the following: "Er... bad? Tastes a little better on the second sip." 8:43PM ET

Seagrams 7 Whiskey and Orange Juice

[20130323][Part of Drinks at a Friend's Wedding]

Brewer's Art Ozzy

20121006:
I wrote: "The Ozzy is bitter, hoppy, and good. There's an orange taste to it. 7.25% ABV. Yeah, that's a delicious bitterness. On the downside, it leaves a bad aftertaste." 11:10PM ET

[20121221]

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20140310:
Today I got a flight of the House Beers on draft.

For the Ozzy I wrote the following:
"This beer has a light smell and taste. It tastes like a blonde ale and has a citrus flavor. It reminds me of Blue Moon." 10:28PM ET
"[Last sip:] Ahhhh, that refreshing Ozzy (Belgian-style)." 11:15PM ET

[Part of Beer Flight at The Brewer's Art]

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Brewer's Art Ozzy

Relevant Links:
The Brewer's Art House Beer List
Brewer's Art Ozzy Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Brewers Art Ozzy (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information: (20121221)

Ozzy
Our answer to the Belgian «devil» beers (i.e. Lucifer, Duvel, etc.). Both rich and dry, this beer is all too easy to consume in large quantities. Hopped with Styrian Goldings. 7.25%abv

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Menu Description: (20140310)

Ozzy
Our tribute to the «Devil» beers of Belgium. This beer is light in color with a full flavor and dry finish. Be careful, as it may sneak up on you. 7.25% ABV

Samuel Adams Dunkelweizen

20121003:
I wrote: "Dunkelweizen. Samuel Adams. It has a lemon sort of flavor. I like it. It's refreshing." 4:15PM ET

[20121221]

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Samuel Adams Dunkelweizen

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

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Website Information:

Flavor: Caramel and toasted malt notes integrated with the traditional German weizen beer fermentation aromas of clove and banana.
Color: Dark amber brown, 20 SRM
Original Gravity: 12.6° Plato
Alcohol by Vol/Wt: 5.1%ABV – 4.0%ABW
Calories/12 oz.: 168
IBUs: 13
Malt Varieties: Samuel Adams two-row pale malt blend, malted wheat, Carawheat® malt, and Carafa® malt
*Carafa® and Carawheat® are registered trademarks of Weyermann Malt, Bamburg, Germany
Hop Variety: Hallertau Mittelfrueh Noble hops
Yeast Strain: W-68 ale yeast
Availability: Seasonal (Aug. - Oct) in the Harvest Collection Variety Pack
First Brewed: 2009

2011 Bodegas Bretón Rioja Iuvene

20121002:
I wrote: "A slight sourness. Some bubbly. Watery. Not dry. Watery." 7:02PM ET

Menu Description:
Bodegas Breton “Iuvene” Rioja Cosecha 2011, Rioja, Spain

[20121221]

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2011 Bodegas Bretón Rioja Iuvene

Relevant Links:
2009 Bodegas Bretón Rioja Iuvene (CellarTracker.com)
2010 Bodegas Bretón Rioja Iuvene (CellarTracker.com)
2011 Bodegas Bretón Rioja Iuvene (CellarTracker.com)

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot

20120930:
I'm with my friends at One-Eyed Mike's and having finished drinking my glass or two of Grand Marnier, I'm ready for one last drink. A friend buys a round of pineapple upside down cake shots.
I wrote: "Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. This is pretty good. Pineapple liqueur over some sweet red thing. Syrup. Am I drunk? For sure." 12:40AM ET

The above comment suggests there was pineapple liqueur and grenadine, but most websites list pineapple juice and vanilla liqueur. Many websites also list butterscotch-flavored schnapps, also known as buttershots. Regardless of what went into the shot, it was undoubtedly delicious.

Common Ingredients:
Vanilla Vodka
Buttershots
: The generic term "buttershots" after DeKuyper Buttershots is used to describe butterscotch-flavored schnapps.
Pineapple Juice
Grenadine
: Added after the above. It drips down to the bottom.

[20121222]

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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot

Relevant Links:
My Cook 20100821 Frozen Pineapple Upside-Down Cake post.

Grand Marnier Red Ribbon

20120930:
After having a round of fuzzy navel shots, my friends and I came to One-Eyed Mike's. Once there, I marveled at the numerous bottles of Grand Marnier. Apparently the establishment has a Grand Marnier Club where membership reserves a bottle of Grand Marnier in the member's name.

I wrote: "This Grand Marnier smells beautiful. One should drink it slowly. Enjoy and sip on it. I've had quite some bit to drink, so the delicious smell also comes with a desire to vomit. I had the fortune of starting a second glass, because someone didn't want their share. Grand Marnier is strong and tasty orange liqueur. I was told warm Grand Marnier tastes really good." 12:23AM ET
I also wrote: "I couldn't drink all of the second glass. I drank it until there was about a shot left. At which point, a friend of mine who couldn't stand sipping on it, shot the rest." 12:36AM ET

While at One-Eyed Mike's we also had pineapple upside-down cake shots.

[20121222]

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Grand Marnier Red Ribbon

Relevant Links:
Grand Marnier Red Ribbon (Grand Marnier Website)
Grand Marnier Website
Grand Marnier (Wikipedia.org)
One-Eyed Mike's

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Website Information:

Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge

History:
The original liqueur created in 1880 by Louis-Alexandre Marnier Lapostolle. A delicate blend of fine cognacs and distilled essence of tropical oranges with Marnier-Lapostolle's secret touch. Slow ageing in French oak casks gives it incomparable roundness and subtlety.

Tasting Notes:
Colour
Bright topaz with gold and amber tints

Aroma
Complex nose of orange flowers combined with scents of candied zests and toffee.

Flavour
Bitter orange flavours are enhanced by the cognac with nuances of orange marmalade and hazelnuts. The finish is long and harmonious.

Exceptional Range:
"Silver Medal" at the 2004 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Brooklyn Brown Ale

20120927:
I can't seem to find any notes on the beer attached to this date. It's possible I exclusively used it to cook: Italian Sausage with Peppers, Onions and Beer.

(20120927)

[20121201][20190310 Edit]

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20121201:
Today I drank a bottle and used a bottle to make another batch of Italian Sausage with Peppers, Onions and Beer.

I wrote: "This Brooklyn Brown Ale smells sweet. Tastes dark like a stout? Oh. I know, it has a delicious malty flavor. I like beers with a strong malty flavor. I really like it." 4:39PM

[20121201][20190310 Edit]

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20130106:
The Brooklyn Brown Ale tastes flavorless compared to the New Belgium Imperial Coffee Chocolate Stout. Of course I already know I enjoy this beer, but I'd have to say the Imperial Coffee Chocolate Stout is just that much better. 10:33PM PT

[20130107]

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20130124:
I wrote: "Brooklyn Brown Ale. I drank it from the bottle. It's sweet. It's quite sweet. The taste changed as I drank it. It gradually became less sweet and less delightful. It tasted more strange. I didn't finish the beer, not because it was bad, I was simply too tired to drink the rest." 4:37AM ET

(20121201)

[20130206]

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20131108:
I wrote: "This Brooklyn Brown Ale is slightly sweeter in taste than the Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale. I recall using this beer for cooking sausage. It's delicious." 7:18PM ET

[20131124]

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Brooklyn Brown Ale

Relevant Links:
Brooklyn Brown Ale (Brooklyn Brewery Website)
Brooklyn Brown Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Brooklyn Brown Ale (RateBeer.com)
My Italian Sausage with Peppers, Onions and Beer post

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(20131108)

Website Information:

BROOKLYN BROWN ALE
This is the award-winning original American brown ale, first brewed as a holiday specialty, and now one of our most popular beers year-round. Northern English brown ales tend to be strong and dry, while southern English brown ales are milder and sweeter. Brooklyn Brown Ale combines the best of those classic styles and then adds an American accent in the form of a firm hop character and roasty palate. A blend of six malts, some of them roasted, give this beer its deep russet-brown color and complex malt flavor, fruity, smooth and rich, with a caramel, chocolate and coffee background. Generous late hopping brings forward a nice hop aroma to complete the picture. Brooklyn Brown Ale is full-flavored but retains a smoothness and easy drinkability that has made it one of the most popular dark beers in the Northeast.

SPEC SHEET
Style: American Brown Ale
Malts: British Two-row Malts, Belgian Aromatic Malts, American Roasted Malts
Additions: Contains wheat
Hops: Willamette, American Fuggle, Cascade
Alcohol by Volume: 5.6%
IBUs: 30
Original Gravity: 15.5° Plato
Calories: 190
Food Pairings: Brooklyn Brown Ale is particularly good with steaks, burgers, stews and barbecue, where it can put its caramel flavors to work with the caramelized flavors in the meat. It’s also excellent with venison, ham and roasted pork, which engage the depth of malt character. Well-aged cheddar, Gouda, Gruyere and sheep’s milk cheeses will pair up nicely.
Availability: Year-round
Format: 15.5 gal kegs; 5.2 gal kegs; 24/12oz bottles

Awards
2012 World Beer Championships: Silver Medal
2010 World Beer Championships: Silver Medal

Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale

20120927:
I wrote: "This Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale has a lovely dark taste. 7.2% ABV. Tasty beer. Sweet. Yeah indeed sweet. Good stuff." 8:24PM ET
I also wrote: "The last drop of the Dogfish Head tastes as if it has a hint of chocolate." 9:36PM ET

(20120927)

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20131102:
I wrote: "The Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale is delicious. I love brown ales." 8:46PM ET

[20131124]

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20131108:
I wrote: "Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale. It has a great sweet toasty or caramel smell. It has a sort of chocolate taste. I love how it tastes." 7:00PM ET

A bit later I had a Brooklyn Brown Ale which I thought was sweeter than the Dogfish Head IBA.

[20131124]

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Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale

(20131108)

Relevant Links:
Indian Brown Ale (Dogfish Head Website)
Indian Brown Ale (BeerAdvocate.com)
Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale (RateBeer.com)

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Website Information:

Indian Brown Ale

Availability: Year Round
Forget about the car companies, this is the original hybrid. A cross between a Scotch Ale, an India Pale Ale and an American Brown, Indian Brown Ale is well-hopped and malty at the same time (It's magical!).

The beer has characteristics of each style that inspired it: the color of an American Brown, the caramel notes of a Scotch Ale, and the hopping regimen of an India Pale Ale. We dry-hop the Indian Brown Ale in a similar fashion to our 60 Minute IPA and 90 Minute IPA. This beer is brewed with Aromatic barley and organic brown sugar.

ABV: 7.2%
IBU: 50

National Bohemian Beer (Natty Boh)

20120912:
At the moment (20121223), I would say there are three things to be said about Natty Boh:
1) If you live in Baltimore, Maryland and drink beer, then there's a good chance you've had a Natty Boh.
2) If you live in Baltimore, Maryland and drink beer, but haven't had a Natty Boh, then you should drink it purely for cultural purposes.

(20120926)

3) If you've had a Natty Boh, but haven't drunk it in Baltimore, Maryland, perhaps you haven't had a Natty Boh.

I wrote: "Natty Boh. Tastes great at an Os game. But honestly, joking aside, it's not bad. I like it more than a Bud." 9:10PM ET

[20121223]

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20130204:
I have definitely underrated Natty Boh, and for that I apologize.

(20130204)

I wrote: "Natty Boh. Less of that bad beer taste than what I drank the other day. It's actually real solid. I have underrated this bear." 9:44PM ET

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National Bohemian Beer (Natty Boh)

Relevant Links:
National Bohemian Beer Website
National Bohemian Beer (BeerAdvocate.com)
National Bohemian (RateBeer.com)
National Bohemian Beer (Wikipedia.org)

(date unknown, 2013 MLB Season)

Crispin Original

~I'm not a beer. I'm a cider.~

20120923:
I wrote: "This apple cider is simple and refreshing. It feels a lot more clean and frankly crisper than other apple ciders which I can remember. The flavor reminds me of the flavor of apple juice found in those round-shaped plastic bottles I often had as a kid. One could say its apple juice, but with 5% alcohol by volume."

[20121115]

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20130413:
I had a taste of my friend's Crispin (draft) and I think some of the ice had melted and slightly diluted the cider, easing some of the crispness. Nevertheless, it was tasty and a different experience from a glass than from a bottle. I doubt I could tell if either Crispin from the tap or from a bottle is better.

[20130416]

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Crispin Original

Relevant Links:
Crispin Original (Crispin Website)
Crispin Original (RateBeer.com)
My Crispin Artisanal Reserve The Saint post

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Website Information:

CRISPIN ORIGINAL

CRISP, REFRESHING NATURAL HARD APPLE CIDER

From the tap at Golden West Cafe.

Crisp over ice. A classically styled, but untraditional hard apple cider. Fruit forward, with a fresh, crunchy appley nose and a deliciously creamy, refreshingly crisp mouth feel.

ABV: 5%
Calories: 150
Colorants: 0
Benzoate Preservatives: 0
Sorbate Preservatives: 0
Added Sugar: 0
Added Malt or Spirit Alcohol: 0
Gluten Free: Yes
Naturally Fermented: Yes
Carbohydrates: 15g

21st Amendment Hell or High Watermelon

20120923:
I wrote: "Hmm this watermelon beer is... I don't know. It's not bad, but I don't really know where the watermelon flavor comes into play. Maybe a little sweetness or hint of it."

[20121115]

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21st Amendment Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer

Relevant Links:
Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer (21st Amendment Website)
Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer (BeerAdvocate.com)
21st Amendment Hell or High Watermelon Wheat (RateBeer.com)
My 21st Amendment Monk's Blood post
My 21st Amendment Fireside Chat post

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Website Information:

Like Lady Liberty, we stand for independence and perseverance. In the pursuit of innovative beer, there is no obstacle too great. No journey too long. No fruit too gigantic. This American wheat beer is brewed with real watermelon, for a flavor that's surprisingly crisp, dry and refreshing—summer in a can.

Hell or High Watermelon Wheat is our summer seasonal beer available from April through September in six pack cans and on draft. We start by brewing a classic American wheat beer, which undergoes a traditional secondary fermentation using fresh watermelon. A straw-colored, refreshing beer with a kiss of watermelon aroma and flavor.

ALCOHOL CONTENT: 4.9% ABV
HOPS: MAGNUM
COLOR: PALE STRAW
FLAVOR: 100% FRESH WATERMELON PURE
BITTERNESS UNITS (IBUS): 17
YEAST: TOP-FERMENTING ALE YEAST
MALTS: TWO-ROW PALE, WHITE WHEAET