I Like Beer.
Enjoying a Goose Island beer in Brooklyn (2009)
So I thought, "Why not keep track of what I've been drinking since I've been in NY?" Of course, I've consumed many more beers than what is so far pictured below, but these are some of the beers I have enjoyed. Perhaps I'll find images of beers I've had and still write a little posthumous review. There are quite a few amaaaazing beers that are not yet listed below.
Most of you know that my passion for all things brewed began while working at Whole Foods in San Francisco. I was introduced to some incredible beers from near and far and had the opportunity to expand my knowledge acting as a beer buyer. I've been hooked ever since. And, I suppose it's sort of a hobby that, until now, I only documented for myself. Hi friends, I'd like to share.
My best friend is also a beer connoisseur and this page is mostly for her. But it is also for those of you who like beer but never shared that fact with me (why the heck not?!) and those of you who never knew I was such a beer freak.
Cheers! Shucram! Prost! Salut! Ba'sal'a'ma't! À votre santé! L'chaim! Sláinte! Kampai! Na zdrowie!
Most of you know that my passion for all things brewed began while working at Whole Foods in San Francisco. I was introduced to some incredible beers from near and far and had the opportunity to expand my knowledge acting as a beer buyer. I've been hooked ever since. And, I suppose it's sort of a hobby that, until now, I only documented for myself. Hi friends, I'd like to share.
My best friend is also a beer connoisseur and this page is mostly for her. But it is also for those of you who like beer but never shared that fact with me (why the heck not?!) and those of you who never knew I was such a beer freak.
Cheers! Shucram! Prost! Salut! Ba'sal'a'ma't! À votre santé! L'chaim! Sláinte! Kampai! Na zdrowie!
Ami Grades:
A+ = find it, buy two, drink one, save one for later
A = I probably made weird faces to indicate I was in ecstasy when I first tried this beer
A- = there's only a minus because I can't give everything a super high grade
B+ = whoa. what? whoa...so good
B = I will have two please.
B- = Something's missing, maybe some fizz, not super balanced, but guess what, it is good. *gulp*
C = this is your average, drinkable, beer. You don't have to force it down, or choose it because there's no other choice. It's not Natural Ice so drink up!
Warning = this beer is an imposter. It has been possessed by some sort of liquid posing as a beer as described on the label but it is crap.
*please note: Obviously, I'm no professional. My tastes are strongly biased towards Belgian beers, malty beers, and less-hoppy beers. I'm not a huge fan of the hops explosion in many beers these days. And I am not going to put anything up that is below a C grade unless it's a warning. As in "Warning" this beer is crap. Also, most photos are taken with my phone, hence the crap quality.
A = I probably made weird faces to indicate I was in ecstasy when I first tried this beer
A- = there's only a minus because I can't give everything a super high grade
B+ = whoa. what? whoa...so good
B = I will have two please.
B- = Something's missing, maybe some fizz, not super balanced, but guess what, it is good. *gulp*
C = this is your average, drinkable, beer. You don't have to force it down, or choose it because there's no other choice. It's not Natural Ice so drink up!
Warning = this beer is an imposter. It has been possessed by some sort of liquid posing as a beer as described on the label but it is crap.
*please note: Obviously, I'm no professional. My tastes are strongly biased towards Belgian beers, malty beers, and less-hoppy beers. I'm not a huge fan of the hops explosion in many beers these days. And I am not going to put anything up that is below a C grade unless it's a warning. As in "Warning" this beer is crap. Also, most photos are taken with my phone, hence the crap quality.
FREAKTOBERFEST, September 26, 2011
Where: Southpaw in Park Slope, Brooklyn
What: Kick off to NY Craft Beer Week
Why: I like beer a little bit and Laura and I were looking forward to the a night out with beer & burlesque
The place was packed, and we all know how I am not a big fan of huge crowds in small spaces. Actually, Southpaw was a decent-sized venue, but there were a TON of people in attendance. We got our little plastic tasting glasses (pictured at left) and dove right in. I think there were about 25 breweries represented that night. Dogfish Head, Pretty Little Things, Ommegang, Empire, Schmaltz,Speakeasy (West Coast represent!), and Goose Island, just to name a few. You wouldn't think a 3 oz pour could do much to you, but multiply that times A LOT and you get a little tipsy doodle. We attempted to watch the Freak Show, they actually had a sword swallower and a guy who hammered a nail into his nose. I think it was the same guy, actually. Anyway, people were pretty drunk by this point and some dim bulb came up and said something like, "Lesbians are cool" blowing hot, yeasty beer breath right into our faces. "Thanks guy!" However, we did get to catch some professional burlesque before we hit the streets. All-in-all, a great date night!
What: Kick off to NY Craft Beer Week
Why: I like beer a little bit and Laura and I were looking forward to the a night out with beer & burlesque
The place was packed, and we all know how I am not a big fan of huge crowds in small spaces. Actually, Southpaw was a decent-sized venue, but there were a TON of people in attendance. We got our little plastic tasting glasses (pictured at left) and dove right in. I think there were about 25 breweries represented that night. Dogfish Head, Pretty Little Things, Ommegang, Empire, Schmaltz,Speakeasy (West Coast represent!), and Goose Island, just to name a few. You wouldn't think a 3 oz pour could do much to you, but multiply that times A LOT and you get a little tipsy doodle. We attempted to watch the Freak Show, they actually had a sword swallower and a guy who hammered a nail into his nose. I think it was the same guy, actually. Anyway, people were pretty drunk by this point and some dim bulb came up and said something like, "Lesbians are cool" blowing hot, yeasty beer breath right into our faces. "Thanks guy!" However, we did get to catch some professional burlesque before we hit the streets. All-in-all, a great date night!
ZYWIEC PIWO
Beer: Zywiec Piwo (Beer)
Style: Euro Pale Lager
ABV: 5.7%
Brewed by: Zywiec Breweries PLC (Heineken) / Zywiec, Poland
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: did I just pour a Michelob into my glass? No, it's an Eastern European lager with a frothy head that stands tall and proud. Nice, golden color, good clarity.
Smell: faint copper penny upfront that reminds me of camping trips that makes my mouth water every time Grassy in the nose like taking in a whiff of freshly cut hay from the hops.
Taste: dry and slightly metallic but very crisp with a slight sweetness that makes a couple, very brief appearances, in the overall taste.
Overall: It's a lager folks, a darn fine one. When I'm in the mood for a tasty, refreshing, simple lager, I usually pick one of these up from one of our neighborhood Polish delis. Maybe some pickles and pierogis too, for a perfect meal while Laura's out of town *wink.
Notes: Piwo means "beer" in Polish. The brewery was established by Archduke Friedrich Habsburg (yes, of the House of Habsburg) in 1856 in Zywiec Valley. Brewing traditions in the valley date back to the Middle Ages.
Style: Euro Pale Lager
ABV: 5.7%
Brewed by: Zywiec Breweries PLC (Heineken) / Zywiec, Poland
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: did I just pour a Michelob into my glass? No, it's an Eastern European lager with a frothy head that stands tall and proud. Nice, golden color, good clarity.
Smell: faint copper penny upfront that reminds me of camping trips that makes my mouth water every time Grassy in the nose like taking in a whiff of freshly cut hay from the hops.
Taste: dry and slightly metallic but very crisp with a slight sweetness that makes a couple, very brief appearances, in the overall taste.
Overall: It's a lager folks, a darn fine one. When I'm in the mood for a tasty, refreshing, simple lager, I usually pick one of these up from one of our neighborhood Polish delis. Maybe some pickles and pierogis too, for a perfect meal while Laura's out of town *wink.
Notes: Piwo means "beer" in Polish. The brewery was established by Archduke Friedrich Habsburg (yes, of the House of Habsburg) in 1856 in Zywiec Valley. Brewing traditions in the valley date back to the Middle Ages.
IMPERIAL PUMPKIN ALE
Beer: Weyerbacher Imperial Pumpkin Ale
Style: Pumpkin Ale
ABV: 8.0%
Brewed by: Weyerbacher Brewing Co. / Easton, Pennsylvannia
Ami Grade: A-
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: dark, deep amber color with a nice foaming head that retains well after the inital pour. Also noticed some sediment during slow pour.
Smell: pumpkin pie in a bottle! Definitely nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon with carmel notes.
Taste: Yes, pumpkin pie in a bottle. I got a nice, chewy mouth full of pumpkin up front, followed by a complex combo of spices, nuts and caramel malt with a hint of hops to round it out. Not too sweet, not at all bitter (keep in mind I love sweet). You'd expect to be knocked over the head with alcohol at this high of an ABV but it's hidden nicely until the very end where it gives you a little nibble. Perfect balance of pumpkin and beer.
Overall: Probably one of my new favorite Pumpkin Ales
Notes: Available August - November. Purchased at Whole Foods Bowery, $11.99 for a 4-pack
Style: Pumpkin Ale
ABV: 8.0%
Brewed by: Weyerbacher Brewing Co. / Easton, Pennsylvannia
Ami Grade: A-
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: dark, deep amber color with a nice foaming head that retains well after the inital pour. Also noticed some sediment during slow pour.
Smell: pumpkin pie in a bottle! Definitely nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon with carmel notes.
Taste: Yes, pumpkin pie in a bottle. I got a nice, chewy mouth full of pumpkin up front, followed by a complex combo of spices, nuts and caramel malt with a hint of hops to round it out. Not too sweet, not at all bitter (keep in mind I love sweet). You'd expect to be knocked over the head with alcohol at this high of an ABV but it's hidden nicely until the very end where it gives you a little nibble. Perfect balance of pumpkin and beer.
Overall: Probably one of my new favorite Pumpkin Ales
Notes: Available August - November. Purchased at Whole Foods Bowery, $11.99 for a 4-pack
DALE'S PALE ALE
Beer: Dale's Pale Ale
Style: American Pale Ale (APA)
ABV: 6.5%
Brewed by: Oskar Blues Brewery / Lyons, Colorado
Ami Grade: B-
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: it might be a crappy photo, but that's a perfect pour! Look at the beautiful snow bunny, frothy head on that! Deep, golden color with nice clarity. What do I mean by "clarity"? Well, I don't know what Michael Jackson (the famous beer dude, not the singer) means by it, but for me it means no sediment, crisp and uniformed color, and when you hold it up to the light, it's like looking at a gem.
Smell: definitely hops shot in the nose with a handful of fresh pine needles mixed in and slight malty-ness. Just enough to draw me in.
Taste: Now, I know I said I'm not a fan of hops. And this beer is definitely dominated by hops but it hasn't been occupied by hops. That being said, the hops say "hello" right away but are nudged to the side for a moment to allow some momentary sweetness to mellow out the tangy hops.
Overall: Not a first choice (have to be in the mood for the hops) but very drinkable.
Notes: Oskar Blues Ten-Fidy is a different story altogether. Once day I'll post up tasting notes on that.
Style: American Pale Ale (APA)
ABV: 6.5%
Brewed by: Oskar Blues Brewery / Lyons, Colorado
Ami Grade: B-
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: it might be a crappy photo, but that's a perfect pour! Look at the beautiful snow bunny, frothy head on that! Deep, golden color with nice clarity. What do I mean by "clarity"? Well, I don't know what Michael Jackson (the famous beer dude, not the singer) means by it, but for me it means no sediment, crisp and uniformed color, and when you hold it up to the light, it's like looking at a gem.
Smell: definitely hops shot in the nose with a handful of fresh pine needles mixed in and slight malty-ness. Just enough to draw me in.
Taste: Now, I know I said I'm not a fan of hops. And this beer is definitely dominated by hops but it hasn't been occupied by hops. That being said, the hops say "hello" right away but are nudged to the side for a moment to allow some momentary sweetness to mellow out the tangy hops.
Overall: Not a first choice (have to be in the mood for the hops) but very drinkable.
Notes: Oskar Blues Ten-Fidy is a different story altogether. Once day I'll post up tasting notes on that.
OVILA QUAD
Beer: Ovila Quad
Style: Quadrupel
ABV: 10.4%
Brewed by: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. / Chico, CA In collaboration with the monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, Ca
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: (I poured this from my growler so it's possible it was lacking some carbonation). Poured a very dark brown with ruby hues and a thin head with a mini-cap
Smell: ahhhh, smelled like a quad, with lovely dark fruit, candy sugar and a little banana bread. I didn't detect any alcohol on the nose.
Taste: upfront, if a fig and a plum had a baby, this is what it'd taste like. Then quickly moves onto the typical bready malt and maybe a little spice? I still did not detect a huge wallop of alcohol that you'd expect (and often desire) in a quad but it definitely is packing a little heat on the end. It tasted a little green/young, I think this would age well in its original bottle.
Overall: a nice quad and given the fact that it comes from one of my least favorite breweries, I was super impressed. Plus, the guy who gave me a taste (thus convincing me to fill my growler with Ovila) also hooked me up with Ovila glassware. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale may be crap, but this quad is not. Definitely worth a try. $8.99 , growler refill at Whole Foods in the Bowery.
Notes: The monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, California have been painstakingly reassembling part of the Santa Maria de Ovila monastery that was originally built in Spain in the 13th Century. The American millionaire William Hearst bought parts of the monastery in 1931 and had intended to use it in the construction of his castle (yes, castle) in California but he ended up giving some 10,000 stones to the City of San Francisco to pay off taxes owed. (!) Around 1998, a portion of the stones were donated to the monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux.
Style: Quadrupel
ABV: 10.4%
Brewed by: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. / Chico, CA In collaboration with the monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, Ca
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: (I poured this from my growler so it's possible it was lacking some carbonation). Poured a very dark brown with ruby hues and a thin head with a mini-cap
Smell: ahhhh, smelled like a quad, with lovely dark fruit, candy sugar and a little banana bread. I didn't detect any alcohol on the nose.
Taste: upfront, if a fig and a plum had a baby, this is what it'd taste like. Then quickly moves onto the typical bready malt and maybe a little spice? I still did not detect a huge wallop of alcohol that you'd expect (and often desire) in a quad but it definitely is packing a little heat on the end. It tasted a little green/young, I think this would age well in its original bottle.
Overall: a nice quad and given the fact that it comes from one of my least favorite breweries, I was super impressed. Plus, the guy who gave me a taste (thus convincing me to fill my growler with Ovila) also hooked me up with Ovila glassware. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale may be crap, but this quad is not. Definitely worth a try. $8.99 , growler refill at Whole Foods in the Bowery.
Notes: The monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, California have been painstakingly reassembling part of the Santa Maria de Ovila monastery that was originally built in Spain in the 13th Century. The American millionaire William Hearst bought parts of the monastery in 1931 and had intended to use it in the construction of his castle (yes, castle) in California but he ended up giving some 10,000 stones to the City of San Francisco to pay off taxes owed. (!) Around 1998, a portion of the stones were donated to the monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux.
CURMUDGEON OLD ALE
Beer: Curmudgeon
Style: Old ale
ABV: 9.8%
Brewed by: Founders Brewing Company / Grand Rapids, MI
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: as you can see in the photo, it was a murky pour with a nice, neat cream-colored head that didn't disappear right away.
Smell: oak, caramel, candied molasses with some malt notes that were reminiscent of fresh baked honey wheat bread. A smell that had me rubbing my hands together in sheer glee.
Taste: what is it about that first sip of a good beer that makes you want to press pause on life? Slo mo slurp and let the malt bomb explode slowly over my tastebuds. No hops to ruin the sweet, oaked, chewey molasses and caramel bisquit. Low carbonation. I did get some alcohol on the end but it wasn't astringent, it was subtle, like gramma coming over to drape a handmade afghan over your shoulders while you eat her fresh-baked apple pie. Soothing warmth.
Overall: an ideal beer for cold nights. Meant to be sipped, slurped and indulged but not gulped. As described on the Founder's website "Think classic seafaring ports, local pubs, and weathered old fishermen." This one's for you Bri!
Notes: The rad label describes this beer as "Old Ale brewed with molasses and oak-aged". I don't care if there was a picture of poo wearing a cravat and top hat on the label, with that description, I'd have to at least try it.
Style: Old ale
ABV: 9.8%
Brewed by: Founders Brewing Company / Grand Rapids, MI
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting notes -
Appearance: as you can see in the photo, it was a murky pour with a nice, neat cream-colored head that didn't disappear right away.
Smell: oak, caramel, candied molasses with some malt notes that were reminiscent of fresh baked honey wheat bread. A smell that had me rubbing my hands together in sheer glee.
Taste: what is it about that first sip of a good beer that makes you want to press pause on life? Slo mo slurp and let the malt bomb explode slowly over my tastebuds. No hops to ruin the sweet, oaked, chewey molasses and caramel bisquit. Low carbonation. I did get some alcohol on the end but it wasn't astringent, it was subtle, like gramma coming over to drape a handmade afghan over your shoulders while you eat her fresh-baked apple pie. Soothing warmth.
Overall: an ideal beer for cold nights. Meant to be sipped, slurped and indulged but not gulped. As described on the Founder's website "Think classic seafaring ports, local pubs, and weathered old fishermen." This one's for you Bri!
Notes: The rad label describes this beer as "Old Ale brewed with molasses and oak-aged". I don't care if there was a picture of poo wearing a cravat and top hat on the label, with that description, I'd have to at least try it.
CZECH REBEL
Beer: Czech Rebel
Style: Czech Pilsner
ABV: 4.4%
Brewed by: Měšťanský Pivovar Havlíčkův Brod, A.S. / Czech Republic
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: pale golden, nicely carbonated, half-inch white frothy head that sticks to the side of the glass
Smell: slightly sweet, grain with a hint of grape
Taste: a light bodied beer (ideal for hot days) with light malt and floral hop flavors, I did detect a very slight grape in the middle with a teeny zap of lemon followed by a metallic, grassy finish.
Overall: I gave it a C+ because it's not my favorite style but don't be misled, this is a tasty, drinkable beer. And a nice example of a pilsner. Perfect for after work, chillin' with friends, or a hot summer day as it is super refreshing (Laura's a fan!). $2.29 for a 500mL at neighborhood Polish deli
Notes: The ancient city of Plzen (Pilsen), located in western Czech Republic, is the namesake for Pilsner. It was first brewed back in the 1840's.
Style: Czech Pilsner
ABV: 4.4%
Brewed by: Měšťanský Pivovar Havlíčkův Brod, A.S. / Czech Republic
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: pale golden, nicely carbonated, half-inch white frothy head that sticks to the side of the glass
Smell: slightly sweet, grain with a hint of grape
Taste: a light bodied beer (ideal for hot days) with light malt and floral hop flavors, I did detect a very slight grape in the middle with a teeny zap of lemon followed by a metallic, grassy finish.
Overall: I gave it a C+ because it's not my favorite style but don't be misled, this is a tasty, drinkable beer. And a nice example of a pilsner. Perfect for after work, chillin' with friends, or a hot summer day as it is super refreshing (Laura's a fan!). $2.29 for a 500mL at neighborhood Polish deli
Notes: The ancient city of Plzen (Pilsen), located in western Czech Republic, is the namesake for Pilsner. It was first brewed back in the 1840's.
ITHACA COLD FRONT
Beer: Cold Front
Style: Belgian Dark Ale (although the label describes it as "Belgian-Style Amber Ale)
ABV: 7.2%
Brewed by: Ithaca Beer Company / Ithaca, New York
Ami Grade: WARNING
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: dark brown corduroy pants in a thrift store color with a fair sized cream-colored head
Smell: little funk up front followed by prominent malt, cotton candy peek-a-boo and a rusty nail on the end
Taste: I went from "oh yeah" to "ew no" in 2.9 seconds. I hate that! There was a battle in my mouth between the smokey funk and the warm malted leather jacket. Smoke and funk won out causing me to momentarily make the face that babies make when you spoon Gerber squash into their mouth but they thought they were going to get applesauce.
Overall: Weird, off-centered taste. Not impressed but I would by no means dump it. Worth a try but not a six-pack
Notes: I tried this at The Stag's Head, a nifty little pub on the Lower East Side. They make a mean chicken pot pie (but bring your own hot sauce, all they had was Tabasco).
Style: Belgian Dark Ale (although the label describes it as "Belgian-Style Amber Ale)
ABV: 7.2%
Brewed by: Ithaca Beer Company / Ithaca, New York
Ami Grade: WARNING
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: dark brown corduroy pants in a thrift store color with a fair sized cream-colored head
Smell: little funk up front followed by prominent malt, cotton candy peek-a-boo and a rusty nail on the end
Taste: I went from "oh yeah" to "ew no" in 2.9 seconds. I hate that! There was a battle in my mouth between the smokey funk and the warm malted leather jacket. Smoke and funk won out causing me to momentarily make the face that babies make when you spoon Gerber squash into their mouth but they thought they were going to get applesauce.
Overall: Weird, off-centered taste. Not impressed but I would by no means dump it. Worth a try but not a six-pack
Notes: I tried this at The Stag's Head, a nifty little pub on the Lower East Side. They make a mean chicken pot pie (but bring your own hot sauce, all they had was Tabasco).
BROOKLYN BROWN ALE
Beer: Brooklyn Brown Ale
Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 5.6%
Brewed by: Brooklyn Brewery / Brooklyn, NY
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Sorry, I drank this straight out of the bottle. Who cares?!
Smell: didn't get a proper sniff out of the tiny bottle opening, my nose didn't quite fit
Taste: I was pleasantly surprised when a nice combination of chocolate covered espresso beans and malt slid over my tongue, sparking an audible "Mm!". A little sweet, barely smokey, but also crisp. A nicely balanced, smooth beer that's delicious straight out of the bottle.
Overall: Refreshing and hearty. Definitely a "6-pk in the 'fridge" worthy beer.
Notes: I have found it can be hit-of-miss with Brooklyn Brewery but this is probably one of my favorites.
Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 5.6%
Brewed by: Brooklyn Brewery / Brooklyn, NY
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Sorry, I drank this straight out of the bottle. Who cares?!
Smell: didn't get a proper sniff out of the tiny bottle opening, my nose didn't quite fit
Taste: I was pleasantly surprised when a nice combination of chocolate covered espresso beans and malt slid over my tongue, sparking an audible "Mm!". A little sweet, barely smokey, but also crisp. A nicely balanced, smooth beer that's delicious straight out of the bottle.
Overall: Refreshing and hearty. Definitely a "6-pk in the 'fridge" worthy beer.
Notes: I have found it can be hit-of-miss with Brooklyn Brewery but this is probably one of my favorites.
SCHNEIDER AVENTINUS WEIZEN-EISBOCK
Beer: Aventinus Weizen-Eisbock
Style: Eisbock
ABV: 12%
Brewed by: Weisses Bräuhaus G. Schneider & Sohn GmbH / Germany
Ami Grade: A+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: pours a dark, brown/deep purple generating a very thin, tan head with a good amount of carbonation.
Smell: malt upfront with a caramel-covered grape (maybe honey) and some spices like a magical wonderland of beer fairies tickling my nose and making my mouth water with anticipation.
Taste: This beer makes my tastebuds do the Spongebob. (please watch to :20 seconds) I'm not sure I can properly convey just how good this beer is. The rich malt is offset by the tangy alcohol with no hops that I could detect. The flavors are insanely complex, Willy Wonka style, you get a different spice, fruit, taste with every sip. I tasted fig, caramel, little chocolatey banana, dark cheery juice drizzle and grape drank. No one flavor overpowered the other, making this beer a masterpiece!
Overall: I have had this beer before. It is a treat I allow myself once in a while. This is not a beer to get drunk off of, it should be savored and cherished. Especially since it's quite pricey, at $5.99 for an 11.2 oz bottle but well worth the experience!
Notes: I learned that I knew only a minimum of information about the brewing process involved in making an Eisbock. These are true winter lagers that achieve such high alcohol levels from being frozen near the end of the maturation period. Basic science informs us that water freezes before alcohol, and this is when the brew is removed from the ice crystals and loses anywhere from 7 to 10% of its water content hence the higher ABV. Eisbocks are either barley-based or wheat-based (as is the case with this Weizen Eisbock). GTK!
Style: Eisbock
ABV: 12%
Brewed by: Weisses Bräuhaus G. Schneider & Sohn GmbH / Germany
Ami Grade: A+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: pours a dark, brown/deep purple generating a very thin, tan head with a good amount of carbonation.
Smell: malt upfront with a caramel-covered grape (maybe honey) and some spices like a magical wonderland of beer fairies tickling my nose and making my mouth water with anticipation.
Taste: This beer makes my tastebuds do the Spongebob. (please watch to :20 seconds) I'm not sure I can properly convey just how good this beer is. The rich malt is offset by the tangy alcohol with no hops that I could detect. The flavors are insanely complex, Willy Wonka style, you get a different spice, fruit, taste with every sip. I tasted fig, caramel, little chocolatey banana, dark cheery juice drizzle and grape drank. No one flavor overpowered the other, making this beer a masterpiece!
Overall: I have had this beer before. It is a treat I allow myself once in a while. This is not a beer to get drunk off of, it should be savored and cherished. Especially since it's quite pricey, at $5.99 for an 11.2 oz bottle but well worth the experience!
Notes: I learned that I knew only a minimum of information about the brewing process involved in making an Eisbock. These are true winter lagers that achieve such high alcohol levels from being frozen near the end of the maturation period. Basic science informs us that water freezes before alcohol, and this is when the brew is removed from the ice crystals and loses anywhere from 7 to 10% of its water content hence the higher ABV. Eisbocks are either barley-based or wheat-based (as is the case with this Weizen Eisbock). GTK!
SMUTTYNOSE PUMPKIN ALE
Beer: Smutty Nose Pumpkin Ale
Style: Pumpkin Ale
ABV: 6.0%
Brewed by: Smuttynose Brewing Co. / Portsmouth, NH
Ami Grade: A-
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: burnt orange color with bright highlights and an epic head. Check that lace clinging to the side of the glass! Makes you want to take a bite...
Smell: a toasted pumpkin seed smell followed by mellow yeast, smells cozy.
Taste: Hops came through first for me with a slightly bitter punch in the mouth softened tremendously by a soothing malt, spice, pumpkin pie bandaid. If the back end of this taste didn't have that yummy bandaid, I would've have very much disliked this beer. It's got all the right spices without being overwhelmed by them: allspice, cinnamon, little bit of clove and nutmeg ties it all together with a nifty rustic bow.
Overall: let's be real here. I bought several 6-pks of this ale this season. It's just so well made, I wanted to get it while I could.
Notes: Apparently, pumpkin (squash) ale has been around since the late 18th century in the U.S. When barley was scarce, squash was used as a source of fermentable sugar. Neato!
Style: Pumpkin Ale
ABV: 6.0%
Brewed by: Smuttynose Brewing Co. / Portsmouth, NH
Ami Grade: A-
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: burnt orange color with bright highlights and an epic head. Check that lace clinging to the side of the glass! Makes you want to take a bite...
Smell: a toasted pumpkin seed smell followed by mellow yeast, smells cozy.
Taste: Hops came through first for me with a slightly bitter punch in the mouth softened tremendously by a soothing malt, spice, pumpkin pie bandaid. If the back end of this taste didn't have that yummy bandaid, I would've have very much disliked this beer. It's got all the right spices without being overwhelmed by them: allspice, cinnamon, little bit of clove and nutmeg ties it all together with a nifty rustic bow.
Overall: let's be real here. I bought several 6-pks of this ale this season. It's just so well made, I wanted to get it while I could.
Notes: Apparently, pumpkin (squash) ale has been around since the late 18th century in the U.S. When barley was scarce, squash was used as a source of fermentable sugar. Neato!
WINTER SOLSTICE SEASONAL ALE
Beer: Winter Solstice Seasonal Ale
Style: Winter Warmer
ABV: 6.9%
Brewed by: Anderson Valley Brewing Co. / Boonville, CA
Ami Grade: B+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: burnt amber in color with a mini head that lasts for a very short amount of time
Smell: caramel malt in the nose and slight cream soda spilled on a wood burning stove mixed in
Taste: mellow tang of the hops up front that gathers some strength and right when you start to think "Too many hops!" sweet malty angels swoop down to lift that hops off your tongue and leave with you with a lip-smacking sweet, warm alcohol gift.
Overall: a very nice example of what a Winter Warmer should be...I love Autumn/Winter beer season!
Notes: I've visited this brewery (good memories) and was surprised to discover that it's not massive. But I guess that's what craft brews are all about...the beer.
Style: Winter Warmer
ABV: 6.9%
Brewed by: Anderson Valley Brewing Co. / Boonville, CA
Ami Grade: B+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: burnt amber in color with a mini head that lasts for a very short amount of time
Smell: caramel malt in the nose and slight cream soda spilled on a wood burning stove mixed in
Taste: mellow tang of the hops up front that gathers some strength and right when you start to think "Too many hops!" sweet malty angels swoop down to lift that hops off your tongue and leave with you with a lip-smacking sweet, warm alcohol gift.
Overall: a very nice example of what a Winter Warmer should be...I love Autumn/Winter beer season!
Notes: I've visited this brewery (good memories) and was surprised to discover that it's not massive. But I guess that's what craft brews are all about...the beer.
RODENBACH'S FLEMISH
_Beer: Rodenbach Classic
Style: Flanders Red Ale
ABV: 5.2%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Rodenbach / Roeselare, Belgium
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: glows a ruby red when backlit. Yes, I backlit it. Deep garnet tones and very nice clarity. Thin, lacey head that dissipates quickly.
Smell: oakey, leather & sour cherries in the nose. The smell is reminiscent of leather arm chairs and sweet cigars, as I imagine Ellen Degeneres might have in her library.
Taste: Up front is a nice malty-berry sweetness lightened by a delicate effervescence. Quickly the tart sets in and gets you right in that sweet spot in the cheeks. The malt evens things out again in a way that makes you go "mmmmm". Be prepared for a smooth, malty finish creating a neat bow on a gem of a beer.
Overall: I love this beer and always consider it a treat. With the low alcohol content and great taste, I can almost drink an entire 750 by myself. But I like to share, because I'm nice.
Notes: available in 330s or 750s. If you've never had the pleasure of trying a sour ale, this is a good place to start.
Style: Flanders Red Ale
ABV: 5.2%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Rodenbach / Roeselare, Belgium
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: glows a ruby red when backlit. Yes, I backlit it. Deep garnet tones and very nice clarity. Thin, lacey head that dissipates quickly.
Smell: oakey, leather & sour cherries in the nose. The smell is reminiscent of leather arm chairs and sweet cigars, as I imagine Ellen Degeneres might have in her library.
Taste: Up front is a nice malty-berry sweetness lightened by a delicate effervescence. Quickly the tart sets in and gets you right in that sweet spot in the cheeks. The malt evens things out again in a way that makes you go "mmmmm". Be prepared for a smooth, malty finish creating a neat bow on a gem of a beer.
Overall: I love this beer and always consider it a treat. With the low alcohol content and great taste, I can almost drink an entire 750 by myself. But I like to share, because I'm nice.
Notes: available in 330s or 750s. If you've never had the pleasure of trying a sour ale, this is a good place to start.
DOGFISH HEAD INDIAN BROWN ALE
__Beer: Indian Brown Ale
Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 7.2%
Brewed by: Dogfish Head Brewery / Milton, Delaware
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: mahogany brown with a thick, foamy head that you almost want to spoon into your mouth
Smell: Tell tale caramel malt up front but there's definitely a hop tingle at the end. Stop sniffing the beer and drink it already!
Taste: This is a very well made beer. The brewery describes this beer as 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!)." And I don't think I need to really say much more than that.
Overall: This is a beer you should keep in the 'fridge because even though it's not quite a session beer, you'll want to have one nearby at all times. This beer is damn good.
Notes: $10.99 for a 6-pack, totally reasonable, totally worth it.
Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 7.2%
Brewed by: Dogfish Head Brewery / Milton, Delaware
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: mahogany brown with a thick, foamy head that you almost want to spoon into your mouth
Smell: Tell tale caramel malt up front but there's definitely a hop tingle at the end. Stop sniffing the beer and drink it already!
Taste: This is a very well made beer. The brewery describes this beer as 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!)." And I don't think I need to really say much more than that.
Overall: This is a beer you should keep in the 'fridge because even though it's not quite a session beer, you'll want to have one nearby at all times. This beer is damn good.
Notes: $10.99 for a 6-pack, totally reasonable, totally worth it.
FOUNDERS DIRTY BASTARD
__Beer: Founders Dirty Bastard
Style: Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy
ABV: 8.5%
Brewed by: Founders Brewing Company / Grand Rapids, MI
Ami Grade: B+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: deep, dark stormy night. Miniscule head which clings in vain to the sides of the glass, only to sink into the murky depths.
Smell: sweat biscuits, slightly burnt on the bottoms with maple syrup on top. Glee.
Taste: Founders can do no wrong thus far. This beer is DE-lish. Dark-candied fruits with toasted malt to balance out the sweetness with a pleasant undertone of hops and nice carbonation to round everything out. Don't be surprised if you dance a little jig after your first sip.
Overall: a nicely balanced brew. I've had Wee Heavy & Scotch Ales that are just too sickly sweet but they did right by this style.
Notes: If you see anything by Founder Brewing, try it. I've yet to be disappointed. What up Michigan?!
Style: Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy
ABV: 8.5%
Brewed by: Founders Brewing Company / Grand Rapids, MI
Ami Grade: B+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: deep, dark stormy night. Miniscule head which clings in vain to the sides of the glass, only to sink into the murky depths.
Smell: sweat biscuits, slightly burnt on the bottoms with maple syrup on top. Glee.
Taste: Founders can do no wrong thus far. This beer is DE-lish. Dark-candied fruits with toasted malt to balance out the sweetness with a pleasant undertone of hops and nice carbonation to round everything out. Don't be surprised if you dance a little jig after your first sip.
Overall: a nicely balanced brew. I've had Wee Heavy & Scotch Ales that are just too sickly sweet but they did right by this style.
Notes: If you see anything by Founder Brewing, try it. I've yet to be disappointed. What up Michigan?!
SPEAKEASY BIG DADDY IPA
__Beer: Big Daddy I.P.A.
Style: American I.P.A.
ABV: 6.5%
Brewed by: Speakeasy Ales & Lager / San Francisco, CA
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: golden haystack, slightly hazy with a decent head. Lots of carbonation.
Smell: I'm in for some hops here folks. Citrus tang up front with a hint of apple Jolly Rancher. Reminds me of the West Coast.
Taste: It's an I.P.A. and, as you all know, I don't typically go for hops. But sometimes you want keep your tastebuds on their toes (that's a weird image). And, as my best friend (Hey Bri) sent me this beer from afar, I was definitely gonna savor it. It's hoppy, yes, grassy/citrusy, yes, but it's not gross. In fact, it's quite good. It's refreshing and very easy to drink. This is a beer you want in your super cold cooler on a hot summer day. Would pair well with pizza, burgers or spicy food in general.
Overall: a good beer that is what it claims to be. No faking here, this is an I.P.A. Not too hopped, not too watery....sort of just right.
Notes: Speakeasy Brewery's been in effect in SF since 1997. Haven't yet seen it here in NYC.
Style: American I.P.A.
ABV: 6.5%
Brewed by: Speakeasy Ales & Lager / San Francisco, CA
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: golden haystack, slightly hazy with a decent head. Lots of carbonation.
Smell: I'm in for some hops here folks. Citrus tang up front with a hint of apple Jolly Rancher. Reminds me of the West Coast.
Taste: It's an I.P.A. and, as you all know, I don't typically go for hops. But sometimes you want keep your tastebuds on their toes (that's a weird image). And, as my best friend (Hey Bri) sent me this beer from afar, I was definitely gonna savor it. It's hoppy, yes, grassy/citrusy, yes, but it's not gross. In fact, it's quite good. It's refreshing and very easy to drink. This is a beer you want in your super cold cooler on a hot summer day. Would pair well with pizza, burgers or spicy food in general.
Overall: a good beer that is what it claims to be. No faking here, this is an I.P.A. Not too hopped, not too watery....sort of just right.
Notes: Speakeasy Brewery's been in effect in SF since 1997. Haven't yet seen it here in NYC.
BUTTERNUT'S PORKSLAP PALE ALE
__Beer: Porkslap Pale Ale
Style: American Pale Ale A.P.A.
ABV: 4.3%
Brewed by: Butternuts Beer & Ale / Garretsville, NY
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: like dishwater after a BBQ with a cheerful finger-depth of foam.
Smell: Pine, little malt, little citrus. Nothing major going on here. It smells like a can-o-beer
Taste: I like this beer! There's some nice caramel flavor followed by some citrus but it's not very hopped. Very buttery and leaves a nice sweetish malt taste in your mouth. Nothing overwhelming about this beer. But it's not underwhelming either.
Overall: Keep a six pack in the 'fridge. It's a nice session beer, low alcohol that will pair nicely with any meal.
Notes: $8.99 for a six-pack and you look pretty rad carrying this around with you at a party. Probably one of my favorite labels. I thought the toilet was an ideal backdrop for this beer. Check our their website linked above. These guys have to be stoners. Either that or true beer geeks. I'll definitely try their two other brews: Moo Thunder Stout & Heinnieweisse Weissebier
Style: American Pale Ale A.P.A.
ABV: 4.3%
Brewed by: Butternuts Beer & Ale / Garretsville, NY
Ami Grade: C
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: like dishwater after a BBQ with a cheerful finger-depth of foam.
Smell: Pine, little malt, little citrus. Nothing major going on here. It smells like a can-o-beer
Taste: I like this beer! There's some nice caramel flavor followed by some citrus but it's not very hopped. Very buttery and leaves a nice sweetish malt taste in your mouth. Nothing overwhelming about this beer. But it's not underwhelming either.
Overall: Keep a six pack in the 'fridge. It's a nice session beer, low alcohol that will pair nicely with any meal.
Notes: $8.99 for a six-pack and you look pretty rad carrying this around with you at a party. Probably one of my favorite labels. I thought the toilet was an ideal backdrop for this beer. Check our their website linked above. These guys have to be stoners. Either that or true beer geeks. I'll definitely try their two other brews: Moo Thunder Stout & Heinnieweisse Weissebier
Uncommon's Golden State Ale
Beer: Golden State Ale
Style: Belgian Pale Ale
ABV: 6.4%
Brewed by: Uncommon Brewers / Santa Cruz, California
Ami Grade: A+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Dunno, drank it straight out of the can.
Smell: Aroma is a mix of sweet malts, lemon and other citrus smells, poppy, honey, coriander, and some Belgian yeast.
Taste: I recall some poppy comes, some honey and Belgian yeast flavor. The finish is a mix of sweet malts, and spice with a bit of lemon peel and tartness making it perfect for a sunny day.
Overall: Recommended by my Beef during her visit and we shared it during a bike ride in Prospect Park.
Notes: I gave this beer an A+ mainly for the memories of that day and not so much for the beer, which was good but not mindblowing. Unlike my Beef.
Style: Belgian Pale Ale
ABV: 6.4%
Brewed by: Uncommon Brewers / Santa Cruz, California
Ami Grade: A+
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Dunno, drank it straight out of the can.
Smell: Aroma is a mix of sweet malts, lemon and other citrus smells, poppy, honey, coriander, and some Belgian yeast.
Taste: I recall some poppy comes, some honey and Belgian yeast flavor. The finish is a mix of sweet malts, and spice with a bit of lemon peel and tartness making it perfect for a sunny day.
Overall: Recommended by my Beef during her visit and we shared it during a bike ride in Prospect Park.
Notes: I gave this beer an A+ mainly for the memories of that day and not so much for the beer, which was good but not mindblowing. Unlike my Beef.
CUVEE DES JACOBINS ROUGE
Beer: Cuvee des Jacobins Rouge
Style: Flanders Red Ale
ABV: 5.5%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Bocker N.V. / Bellegum, Belgium
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Held up to the light, it has the deep, ruby red appearance of a true Flanders Red Ale (aka sour ale). A teeny head that disappears quickly but leaves behind a nice aroma...
Smell: sour cherry, definitely malt and I would venture to say caramel apple...you definitely pick up on the sour notes even if your brain doesn't necessarily recognize it because that sweet spot in your cheeks perks up and says "gimme"
Taste: Vanilla oak up front followed by a strong sour cherry tang that mellows out into a nice malted, woody-esque sweet cigar and finishes with a not-too-overbearing alcohol presence. The carbonation is key in this beer as it mellows out the complex flavors competing for your taste bud's attention.
Overall: I would buy it again, especially when I'm in the mood for a sour ale. A well-made ale.
Notes: If you haven't ventured into the world of sour ales, the best way to ease into it is by starting with a Flanders Red. They aren't as crazy as lambics but they will certainly help you appreciate this particular beer breed. Plus, you look (and sound) pretty cool ordering a sour ale at a schmoozy craft beer place...not really.
Style: Flanders Red Ale
ABV: 5.5%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Bocker N.V. / Bellegum, Belgium
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Held up to the light, it has the deep, ruby red appearance of a true Flanders Red Ale (aka sour ale). A teeny head that disappears quickly but leaves behind a nice aroma...
Smell: sour cherry, definitely malt and I would venture to say caramel apple...you definitely pick up on the sour notes even if your brain doesn't necessarily recognize it because that sweet spot in your cheeks perks up and says "gimme"
Taste: Vanilla oak up front followed by a strong sour cherry tang that mellows out into a nice malted, woody-esque sweet cigar and finishes with a not-too-overbearing alcohol presence. The carbonation is key in this beer as it mellows out the complex flavors competing for your taste bud's attention.
Overall: I would buy it again, especially when I'm in the mood for a sour ale. A well-made ale.
Notes: If you haven't ventured into the world of sour ales, the best way to ease into it is by starting with a Flanders Red. They aren't as crazy as lambics but they will certainly help you appreciate this particular beer breed. Plus, you look (and sound) pretty cool ordering a sour ale at a schmoozy craft beer place...not really.
SMUTTYNOSE S'MUTTONATOR
_Beer: S'muttonator Double Bock Beer
Style: Dopplebock
ABV: 8.5%
Brewed by: Smuttynose Brewing Co. / Portsmouth, NH
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Deep, dark brown with nice clarity and a thin, lacy head that sticks around for a while.
Smell: Toasted caramel and juicy raisin notes and on the back-end, a little alcohol to let you know you oughta take this brew seriously.
Taste: Seriously good. Malty sweetness as expected and little hops to speak of, however, the alcohol zinger at the end helps maintain a nice, rounded body and pleasant mouthfeel. Toasted bread, ripe fruit, a tiny note of slightly sour all wrapped up in a warm afterglow of goodness.
Overall: Yet another great brew from Smuttynose. I have yet to be disappointed in a beer from them.
Notes: $7.99 for a 22 oz, WF, Bower. Next time I pick up a bottle, I'll keep it for a while, see how it ages.
Style: Dopplebock
ABV: 8.5%
Brewed by: Smuttynose Brewing Co. / Portsmouth, NH
Ami Grade: A
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Deep, dark brown with nice clarity and a thin, lacy head that sticks around for a while.
Smell: Toasted caramel and juicy raisin notes and on the back-end, a little alcohol to let you know you oughta take this brew seriously.
Taste: Seriously good. Malty sweetness as expected and little hops to speak of, however, the alcohol zinger at the end helps maintain a nice, rounded body and pleasant mouthfeel. Toasted bread, ripe fruit, a tiny note of slightly sour all wrapped up in a warm afterglow of goodness.
Overall: Yet another great brew from Smuttynose. I have yet to be disappointed in a beer from them.
Notes: $7.99 for a 22 oz, WF, Bower. Next time I pick up a bottle, I'll keep it for a while, see how it ages.
DELIRIUM NOEL
_Beer: Delrium Noel
Style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale
ABV: 10%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Huyghe / Melle, Belgium
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Dark brown with amber hues, a finger width of cream-colored fluffy head.
Smell: The alcohol is obvious right away with the telling sweet malt and ripe fruit of Belgian strong dark.
Taste: Dark fruit, brown sugar and bready malt. As good as always but never mind-blowing.
Overall: I get this every year around xmas, just as a matter of tradition. I believe there's one buried in the back of my mini-cellar/fridge that I'll try next xmas.
Notes: $20 for a 4pk of 330mL at Food Town in my 'hood.
Style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale
ABV: 10%
Brewed by: Brouwerij Huyghe / Melle, Belgium
Ami Grade: B
- Tasting Notes -
Appearance: Dark brown with amber hues, a finger width of cream-colored fluffy head.
Smell: The alcohol is obvious right away with the telling sweet malt and ripe fruit of Belgian strong dark.
Taste: Dark fruit, brown sugar and bready malt. As good as always but never mind-blowing.
Overall: I get this every year around xmas, just as a matter of tradition. I believe there's one buried in the back of my mini-cellar/fridge that I'll try next xmas.
Notes: $20 for a 4pk of 330mL at Food Town in my 'hood.