AW's Beer Reviews

[AWMiller]

Since we know that beer goes good with so many types of foods (and by itself too!!!), I thought I'd start up a thread containing reviews of the beers that I've been sampling.

Also, rather than having a separate thread for each review, I'll just keep them all culminated here in one spot.


Enjoy! And chime in with your opinions/reviews and recommendations!!!

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Weisse Dark

Brewed by: Hacker-Pschoor Bräu (http://www.hacker-pschorr.de/); Munchen, Germany

Style: Weizenbock

Glassware: Best served in weizen glass or mug.

Personal Notes: These German brews are steadily growing on me! This brew sports a body that is a dark amber, slightly cloudy (maybe a bit murky?) but, moreover, like dark honey that has crystallized somewhat. Topped off with a thick, frothy, bubbly white head that stays with the bear all the way through! Warm scents of apple (like a warm apple pie), sweet malt, clovers and bananas tease the nose as you bring it close. This brew is soooooo smooth, thick (but not chewy!!) and creamy. Slightly fruity (apple? banana? but only so slight)... and malty (like a good malt from a fountain shop). There's a slight hint of bitter hops but it is so well blended in with the rest of the delicious flavors of this brew that it doesn't stand out. What a very wonderful dark wheat German beer!!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Spaten Optimator

Brewed by: Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu, Germany

Style: Dopplebock

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or beer mug. Although I don't mind mine in a goblet from time to time!!

Personal Notes:
What an awesome German dopplebock!! Once poured I knew I was in for a treat when I gazed upon that deep, DEEP dark brown/near black delicious body! Taste and smell are dazzled by a grand balance between malt and hops; not too bitter and not too sweet. The body is good and thick; I like to tease folks by saying it's "thick but not too chewy!" I think it's time to go back and enjoy a few more!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Rahr & Sons Buffalo Butt

Brewed by: Rahr & Sons Brewing Company; Ft. Worth, Texas, USA

Style: American Amber Lager / American Red Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint or mug.

Personal Notes: A lovely dark maroon brew that sports a fairly hearty head, which dissipates a bit too quickly for my preference. Lively scents and flavors of caramel, malt, toast, and toffee; and a slight reminiscent hint of warm flaky biscuits (yeah... Hungry Jack style). Not too hoppy ... not too sweet. Good carbonation makes for a light, refreshing mouth-feel.

It's an "ok" beer (not bad but not overly exciting) but it could be amped up some to represent Texas much better!! (How? I'm not sure.... will have to put more thought into that one!) Most interesting about this beer, for me, was not in the taste but rather in the labeling! It has an interesting 'story' which can be read on the label or on their website (click here for that 'story' (http://www.rahrbrewing.com/our-beers/year-round-beers/buffalo-butt.html)).

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Xingu Black Beer

Brewed by: Cervejaria Sul Brasileira; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Style: schwarzbier

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or a heavy mug (which is what I prefer!!)

Personal Notes: Black gold.... that was my first thought when I poured this brew. Pleasant scents filled with sweet molasses, dark chocolate and slow-roasted malts. A hearty, foamy head stayed well for quite a while. But the taste... ooooh how smooth it was... so smooth I had to keep telling myself that this was beer! The taste was just a tad sweet but there was no detection of any bitterness at all! The flavors of sweet molasses, chocolate and malts come through so teasingly well in this black beer. One reviewer somewhere even said it "smells like cocoa krispies, tastes like heaven" ... yeah I can see where they would say that!! This is definitely one full bodied, easy to drink black beer that you don't want to pass up when you can get it!!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Abbey Belgian Style Ale

Brewed by: New Belgium Brewing Company; Fort Collins, Colorado USA

Style: Dubbel

Glassware: Best served in a goblet. (yeah I know the glass in the pic is a weizen glass! but that's how I was rolling that day!)

Personal Notes: It is hard to tell what I like most about this beer. Is it the sweet aroma? Is it the smooth full-bodied taste? Whatever the case may be, this is one to have stocked up in your cellar!! When poured, the beer boasts a sultry, dark mahogony brown and sports a thick frothy head that stays with the beer for quite a while. The flavor is a meld of chocolate, smoky hops, hints of banana and possibly cinnamon. Definitely one to be enjoyed all throughout the year!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Mardi Gras Bock

Brewed by: Abita Brewing Co.; Abita Springs, Louisiana, USA

Style: Maibock / Helles Bock

Glassware: Best served in pilsner glass or beer mug.

Personal Notes: A good beer with a rich amber color and a somewhat nice thin foamy head. Not too heavy so it's a good beer to be enjoyed readily throughout the day. Scents and tastes of caramel and malt are noted but neither of which are too heavy or overbearing of the other; but there's a nice little bite of hops at the end that makes this a right-tasty beer!

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[biggen]

I would like a peek in your refrigerator!

[AWMiller]

heheheheeeeee... it ain't as full as one would think!

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Hobgoblin

Brewed by: Wychwood Brewery Company (http://www.wychwood.co.uk/), Oxsfordshire, United Kingdom ... check out their wicked website!!!

Style: English Brown Ale

Glassware: Best served in pint glass (becker or tumbler) or a good ol' mug.

Personal Notes: The appearance is a dark amber / dark ruby red sporting a nice frothy head that lasts for the entire beer; with nice lacing throughout. Scent and flavor reminiscent of toffee with just enough hops to finish it off nice and smooth. Definitely one of those all-day beers... one that you can enjoy all day! Oddly though... I found myself enjoy the beer after it warmed up just a tad!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Moose Drool Brown Ale

Brewed by: Big Sky Brewing Company; Missoula, Montana USA

Style: American brown ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes: This one’s fast becoming one of my favorite go-to brown ales!! Sporting a thin creamy head (1 to 1.5 finger in thickness) and a deep brown mahogany color body. Hints of coffee and chocolate scented with notes of honey and warm butter! This is one fine smooth drinking beer. It’s fine by itself but a fine steak or fall-off-the-bone rack of ribs really compliments this brew very well!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Jack’s Pumpkin Spice Ale

Brewed by: Anheuser-Busch, Inc.; St. Louis, Missouri USA

Style: pumpkin ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass (or I like it in a goblet)

Personal Notes:

For something coming from Anheuser-Busch, this is not that bad of a beer. When poured, there’s a slight foamy head atop a copper-colored body … here’s where I was hoping for a more hearty head of foam on this pumpkin ale. The beer is full of spice and nutmeg with just a tad hint of pumpkin; and adorned with hints of aroma like pumpkin bread (or is some cases like a warm pumpkin pie right out of the oven). It’s a very easy beer to drink and one to be enjoyed during the Fall.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: New Belgium 1554 Enlightened Black Ale

Brewed by: New Belgium Brewing; Fort Collins, Colorado USA

Style: Belgian dark ale

Glassware: Best served in a snifter, tulip or over-sized wine glass.

Personal Notes:

Ok… I’m a believer now! I’ve been trying several “black ales” and just haven’t found one that truly tempted my taste buds. That was until I enjoyed this 1554 Enlightened Black Ale by New Belgium brewing company in Fort Collins, Colorado. The beer is a lovely dark chocolaty brown with the scent of chocolate and dark roasted coffee and topped off with creamy tan-colored head that is not too thick nor is it too thin. Upon my first taste my taste buds went into total shock. Did I really taste what I thought I tasted or was I just dreaming? But the second taste confirmed it! Flavors of strong coffee (much like espresso), chocolate and subtle hints of bitter malt. One taste led to another and then there were none!

This is definitely one going into my Beer Hall of Fame!!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Session Premium Black Lager

Brewed by: Full Sail Brewing Co.; Hood River, Oregon, USA

Style: schwarzbier

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass (and I don’t mind it in a goblet cause that’s how I roll!)

Personal Notes: Well the black lager kick continues on!! This Session black lager is such a delight! It’s dark, but not black like a Guinness (which I still haven’t acquired the taste for…). Forms a small mocha-colored head when poured; which tapers off a bit too soon for my likes. The aroma of coffee and cooking chocolates fill the nose; neither of which are too heavy as one is drinking the beer. This is a very mellow beer with just the right amount of ‘heaviness’ and can be enjoyed easily throughout the day. Not too sweet and not too ‘hoppy’… just the way I prefer a good black lager. Definitely one being added to my black lager preferential list!!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Shiner Bohemian Black Ale

Brewed by: Spoetzl Brewery; Shiner, Texas USA

Style: schwarzbier

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass (or a goblet cause that’s how I like to roll!)

Personal Notes:

What an awesome black lager! The more I try of this style, the more I’m starting to really love a hearty black lager. When poured, it looks like “Texas Tea” with an incredible foamy head that lingers for the entire serving leaving pleasing lace rings on the glass. What captured my senses was its deep, dark malt smell. It has an enjoyable flavor; having a nice crisp ‘hoppy’ bite but none of that bitterness normally associated with the black malt. Don’t expect a porter or stout when having this beer! Otherwise you’d think it was thinned out a tad. But this is definitely one black lager to have on-hand and enjoy!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Shiner Old-Time Alt

Brewed by: Spoetzel Brewery; Shiner, Texas USA

Style: altbier

Glassware: Best served in a stange.

Personal Notes: This beer was rather enjoyable. I had read previous reviews of it on BeerAdvocate.com where other reviewers had not given it such a good rating. But being the skeptic that I am, I just had to try it out for myself… and I’m rather glad I did! When poured this beer sports a rich amber color with hints of orange. It didn’t bolster up a large head, maybe an inch or so but the head stayed with the beer and provided for some nice lacing on the side of the glass. One thing I really enjoyed was the beer’s toasted-malt aroma; but at times hints of caramel were also noticed. The flavor of the beer is largely the toasted-malt flavor but again, tastes of caramel were detected. There’s a nice lingering flavor and the beer is a very drinkable beer. Would I stock up on it? Probably not; but it’s not a bad one to have a few on hand!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Tommyknocker Butthead Doppelbock

Brewed by: Tommyknocker Brewery; Idaho Springs, Colorado USA

Style: doppelbock

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or mug.

Personal Notes: Tommyknocker’s Butthead Doppelbock is a very outstanding brew in my humble opinion. Rich and VERY smooth and delightfully malty and not overfilled with all that taste of hops! When poured, your eyes will delight in the dark mahogany color with a hefty tan to light brown head that will cling to your mug leaving those wonderful ring-lines all the way down the glass. Your sense of smell will swoon filled with malts, various fruit, warm bread, and the like. Once that syrupy thick brew hits your tongue you will taste a meld of flavors but overall I compare it to warm bread fresh out of the oven! There is a slight bite of alcohol but it’s nothing at all in the way of conflicting with the fine taste of this brew. Definitely one of the best American doppelbocks I’ve ever tasted!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Spaten Oktoberfest Ur-Märzen

Brewed by: Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu; Munich, Germany

Style: märzen/oktoberfest

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes:

Of the Oktoberfest beers that I’ve sampled thus far, this Spaten is definitely right at the top of my favorites list!!! When I make it over to Germany, Munich and this brewery are definitely on my list of attractions to visit!!! When poured this beer sports a hearty head that stays well with the beer all the way through. Its deep ‘caramely’ brown body (much like a hearty cream soda from those old-fashioned soda fountains!) and caramel scent were just almost too much to bear while taking pics of the brew! There’s a very well-balanced combination of caramel, hops and malt with this fine brew that sits well and proves to be a very easy drinkable beer. An awesome beer to pair up with some delicious brats hot off the grill!!!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Franziskaner Weissbier

Brewed by: Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu; Munich, Germany

Style: Hefeweizen

Glassware: Best served in a weizen glass.

Personal Notes: Pours a very hazy golden amber color with a substantial head … either wait a bit for it to go down or deal with the foamy mustache! The aroma of this brew was amazing!! It put off scents of bananas and cloves … and just a subtle hint of lemon-grass. The taste is just amazing … like sweet banana-nut bread or bread pudding with warm cream sauce just poured on! Nice, creamy, and an exceptional finish! Definitely an awesome companion with poultry and seafood dishes!!

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[AWMiller]

Brew: Shiner Spring Ale Dortmunder

Brewed by: Spoetzl Brewery; Shiner, Texas USA

Style: Dortmunder

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: Well this is my first ‘dortmunder’ to try out. The body is a nice rich golden color with a pretty good level of carbonation going on. As you can see it sports a tall, frothy head! Light scents of grain, malts and just a slight hint of hops here and there. Although I prefer ‘heavier’ beers, this one was a nice ‘light’ beer with subtle flavors of malt and grains and a tinge of spice from the hops at the end. I’d probably keep a few of these on-hand to enjoy after a long day spent working the yard/garden; but definitely something I’d enjoy during the spring or summer seasons.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Weihenstephaner Hefe Weissbier

Brewed by: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan; Freising, Germany

Style: Hefeweizen

Glassware: Best served in a weizen glass.

Personal Notes: Stop the press! I have just enjoyed the MOST amazing hefeweizen ever!! Definitely one that would make me pack a bag and head overseas to Freising, Germany, just to enjoy this beer at its freshest! It pours a tantalizing hazy golden colored brew with a hearty frothy head. Some beers are meant to be savored at many levels and this is exactly one of those beers! Sit back and let the scents of cloves and banana-nut bread along with subtle hints of citrus fill your sense of smell. The savor this prime brew and enjoy that warm banana-nut bread flavor following by a nice slightly citrus-y aftertaste. Words just cannot describe how amazing this one is … you just have to get some for yourself and enjoy!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Adams Imperial Stout

Brewed by: Boston Beer Co.; Boston, Massachusetts USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass, becker or a snifter.

Personal Notes: This is definitely the darkest beer I have yet to try (at least as of the time of this review)! Held it up to the light and all I could compare it to was a solar eclipse … light was not getting through! I was expecting a more frothy head but once the head ‘fell’ it formed a nice mocha-colored ring and formed subtle lace lines on the glass while I drank the beer. There were an abundance of scents and flavors in this beefy brew: chocolate, coffee, espresso, toffee, sweet raisins, vanilla, and more. That snifter glass is the key glassware to use to trap all those wonderful scents while you enjoy drinking this beer. The body is very thick (but not chewy!) and each sip is followed by a hearty aftertaste of strong coffee mixed in with some rich hot chocolate. Definitely a beer to be enjoyed during the chill of fall and winter months and absolutely NOT a beer that is to be quaffed!! Sit back, slow down and enjoy this beer for a while.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Saint Arnold Fancy Lawnmower

Brewed by: Saint Arnold Brewing Co.; Houston, Texas USA

Style: kolsch/altbier

Glassware: Best served in a stange or pint.

Personal Notes: Pours a clear amber body with a nice white foamy head. Filled with scents of grains, bananas, and cloves. This is a nice crisp beer that’s to be truly enjoyed during the hot summer months. The carbonation in this beer is just right; crisp and a wonderful clean finish with only a slight bitter aftertaste. Flavors of sweet malt, bananas, and cloves are complimented well with ‘herbally’ hops. Stock up as the weather warms up!!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Adams Imperial Series Double Bock

Brewed by: Boston Beer Company; Boston, Massachusetts USA

Style: doppelbock

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or mug. But I really wish I had a becker glass for this particular brew!

Personal Notes: Whoa…. now this was one nice hearty brew!! Pours a deep dark mahogany with a sporty head that stays with the brew for a long time. Sweet scents and flavors of malts, caramel, toffee, espresso and hints of clove or some sweet fruit (almost candy-like). Definitely one of my favorite brews to enjoy during the chill of fall and winter. This is a thick (but not chewy!) brew and one that is easily drinkable so you can enjoy a few each time. This is a brew I turn to especially when having wild game for dinner!

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[AWMiller]

Here's a sneak peak at some upcoming beer reviews!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Monty Python's Holy Grail Ale

Brewed by: Black Sheep Brewery PLC; Ripon, United Kingdom

Style: English pale ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass.

Personal Notes: Pours a rich amber colored body sporting a somewhat melancholy foamy head. No big signs of carbonation that I took note of. As with most English pale ales, this one has the pleasant scents nuts and butter and the taste supports those scents with strong flavors of nuts and butter; I did note that the hops presents quite a bitter punch on the first few sips but mellows out after a while. It's not real heavy so it's a real good session beer! But for me this was a fun beer just because of the label as this ale was "tempered over burning witches"!!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: New Belgium Blue Paddle

Brewed by: New Belgium Brewing Co.; Fort Collins, Colorado USA

Style: German Pilsener

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or mug.

Personal Notes: This brew pours out a clear light golden body that sports a tall foamy head that stays well with the brew for quite a while. Scents and flavors full of malts well-blended with just the right amount of hops to make for a superbly balanced brew. Light and refreshing ... definitely a great brew to be enjoyed during the hot Texas summers! A great brew to be enjoyed with poultry and fish/seafood meals!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale

Brewed by: Stone Brewing Co.; Escondido, California USA

Style: American Strong Ale

Glassware: Best served in a mug, pint/becker, or a snifter.

Personal Notes: Pours a dark reddish brown body sporting a good foamy head which left thick lacing on the sides of the glass while the brew was being enjoyed. A very "citrusy" scent and flavor hit strong at first but as the brew warms, there are scents and flavors of brown sugar, roasted hazelnut (most likely from the oaking process), and loads of hops coupled with subtle undertones of roasted malts. If I were to coin a term to describe either the scent or the flavor it would be 'complex'. Definitely a great session beer!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Lagunitas Censored (a.k.a. The Kronik)

Brewed by: Lagunitas Brewing Co; Petaluma, California USA

Style: American Amber/Red Ale

Glassware: Best served in the drain…. or perhaps a dixie cup…. or if you want to go high-society you can serve it up in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes:


http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/smilies/barf.gif YUCK!!!

First things first… I had some high expectations for this brew based on inputs that others had given me on it and other brews that they have tried from Lagunitas. I’ll state for the record that if the rest of their line tastes like this, I’m spending my money on some other brewer!!

… it’s been days and I still can’t get that taste out of my mouth!!! …

And now for the review…

It started off looking like a good brew! A rich warm copper body but it only sported a teeny-tiny foam ring that dissipated quickly and left very little (if any) lacing on the side of the glass. The smell though was just a turn-off and I should have stopped right there and poured it down the drain! But nooooooooo, morbid curiosity got the better of me! It tasted as though I just took a handful of rotten hops and chewed on it! (and the beer wasn’t ‘off’… bottle was sealed right and it was recently brewed/bottled… it just tasted horrible!) I figured that a few more samples would do the trick and let the real flavor come out but I was sadly disappointed. I just can’t put into words how bad this beer tasted (ANY brew would be better than this)!

Sorry folks… no pics of the brew in the serving glass… didn’t want to waste the time with all the editing required on a shoddy beer like this one!

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Paulaner Salvator Double Bock

Brewed by: Paulaner Brauerei GmbH & Co; Germany

Style: Doppelbock

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or mug.

Personal Notes: Definitely a brew going into my BHOF (Beer Hall of Fame)!! This brew pours a rich dark red body that sports a thick foamy head that lends well with the brew for quite a while. Scents of strong malt, coffee (maybe a rich espresso) followed with rich malty flavors blended with hints of orange or cloves with very little presence of the taste of alcohol. It has a nice thick feel to it and is a great beer to pair up with wild game or other rich meats.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Kronenbourg 1664

Brewed by: Brasseries Kronenbourg; Strasbourg, France

Style: European Pale Lager

Glassware: Best served in pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: This being my first French brew to sample, I didn't have any set expectations. Not a bad brew at all I must say, but nothing outstanding either. If you like Heineken then you'll easily like this brew as well. It pours a rich copper-colored body sporting a somewhat dismal bubbly head that dissipates very quickly and leaves very little lacing. Upon opening, my senses detected a very grassy, somewhat pungent, odor that frankly nearly kept me from sampling this brew. It's a bitter tasting beer; for me it was almost too bitter (but that's just me). Flavors detected consisted of the traditional grains, malts and hops; but I just could not find a happy balance between them; but the grassy flavor was very appearant and somewhat overbearing. It's very light on the pallet and a brew that can be a good session beer; especially on those hot summer days. This brew would be good with some fish or possibly some small fried baby crabs!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Left Hand Milk Stout

Brewed by: Left Hand Brewing Co; Longmont, Colorado USA

Style: Milk/Sweet Stout

Glassware: Best served in a pint or a mug.

Personal Notes: This was my first experience in the Milk/Sweet Stout line of brews and this first introduction was quite an interesting one to say the least! The brew pours up very rich and thick with a near-black body that looked very inviting to enjoy! This would have been an awesome view had it not been for the puny head that disappeared so fast that I hardly had time to take a picture of it! Aromas of sweet chocolate and robust coffee teased my senses along with rich flavors of chocolate, strong coffee and a light hint of something smoky. It was very rich and thick but not syrupy like I had imagined it might be. Definitely a brew to be enjoyed after a good meal as it's almost like a fine dessert wine!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Shock Top Raspberry Wheat

Brewed by: Anheuser-Busch, Inc.; St. Louis, Missouri USA

Style: American Pale Wheat Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass, mug or a weizen glass.

Personal Notes: Now I'm not a huge fan of fruity-tootie brews but this one wasn't all that bad; not all that great but definitely not all that bad! It pours a very hazy/murky orange-ish body and sporting an 'ok' foamy head that goes away rather quickly. Loads of raspberry scents are detected right upon opening followed up with a slightly citrus-y scent. The flavor is, in my opinion, too heavy with the raspberry flavor and definitely not pure raspberry being added! There are also hints of orange (and sometimes lemon) flavors as well. The body feels creamy and very smooth with no harsh alcohol being detected. Might enjoy a couple on a hot summer day but not something I would drink a lot of or that often.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Hofbrau Munchen Hofbrau Dunkel

Brewed by: Staatliches Hofbrauhaus (Hofbrau Munchen); Germany

Style: Munich Dunkel Lager

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: This is a very fine dunkel! Pours a rich, dark brown body with a hearty frothy head that stays with the brew a long time. Hints of roasted malt and caramel are both smelt and tasted; followed up with a light, crisp hit of bitter hops that's just right! An excellent pairing with meats and wild game!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Adams Cream Stout

Brewed by: Boston Brewing Co; Boston, Massachusetts USA

Style: stout/porter - sweet stout

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes: Pours up a rich black body with a nice frothy head that leaves good lacing on the glass while you drink. Warms scents of robust coffee, toffee, caramel and roasted malts. Rich tastes of the roasted malts and coffee/caramel. The body is velvety smooth with light carbonation. Tastes best when it's not so cold. A very nice cream stout indeed! Would serve as a great dessert brew!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Kona Wailua Wheat Ale

Brewed by: Kona Brewing Co.; Kona, Hawaii USA

Style: wheat ale - american wheat

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass, mug, or in a weizen glass.

Personal Notes: This was my first Hawaiian brew and overall it was 'ok'. The brew pours up a very clear, almost peach-like body but not a thick head like I was anticipating (and it dissipates very quickly!). Scents and flavors of sweet malts and various citrus fruits and a light tinge of hops make for a fairly balanced brew. The passion fruit was very dominant which for me made it almost 'too fruity' to enjoy; but others may be looking for something along those lines. It would be a good session brew on a hot summers day.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Murphy's Red Ale

Brewed by: Murphy Brewery; Cork, Ireland

Style: ale - scottish ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint or mug.

Personal Notes: A very nice session brew! This brew pours up a rich red body with a sporty thick foamy head. Scents and flavors of sweet malts and caramel tantalize the senses. The flavors are very rich and complemented with a very clean finish and no harsh lingering aftertaste; lightly carbonated and very, very smooth.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Schneider Aventinus

Brewed by: Private Weissbierbrauerei G. Schneider & Sohn GmbH; Kelheim, Germany

Style: lager - weizen bock

Glassware: Best served in a flute or weizen glass.

Personal Notes: OOOOOH MY!! Yet another excellent brew to be added to my own personal 'hall of fame'!!!! This brew pours up a rich dark mahogany body and sports an enormously thick, foamy head. Scents and flavors of chocolate, clove, caramel and so many others you'll delight in each savoring trying to determine what wonderful scent or flavor you are being enticed by!! The body is heavy yet smooth and very creamy and oh so refreshing. Although most say that this brew is to be enjoyed during the wintry months, this brew is (in my opinion) made to be enjoyed all throughout the year! An excellent brew to have with grilled meats and wild game!!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Pilsener 100 (Pilsener Centenario)

Brewed by: Cerveceria La Constancia (SABMiller); San Salvador, El Salvador

Style: South American Light Lager

Glassware: Best served in a pilsener glass.

Personal Notes: This is my first brew to try from El Salvador and it was a good beer despite reviews I’ve heard and read! It pours a rich, clear golden body with a light foamy head which dissipates somewhat quickly. Scents of grains and lemons are easily detected. Flavors detected include spicy hops, grains and lemons. The body is light and crisp with a little bit of carbonation. This brew is so light I can only assume that this is what light beers would taste like. Very light and goes down like water makes this brew a good session beer during those hot summer days.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Leibinger Zeppelin Bier

Brewed by: Brauerei Max Leibinger GmbH; Ravensburg, Germany

Style: German Keller Bier/Zwickel Bier

Glassware: Best served in a mug.

Personal Notes: A fairly good session brew – it pours up a cloudy murky brown body sporting a nice foamy head that dissipates rather quickly and leaves very little lacing on the sides of the mug. Scents and flavors of the standards: hops, malts and some fruits of some sort. Nothing over the top but is a good brew to have during a few sessions.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Leffe Blonde

Brewed by: Abbaye de Leffe S.A.; Belgium

Style: Belgian pale ale

Glassware: Best served in a snifter, tulip glass or over-sized wine glass.

Personal Notes:

Let me introduce you to my most favorite Belgian Pale Ale… Leffe Blonde. Pale amber in color, this ale pumps out a full-bodied, flavor-rich beer. First you’ll notice the soothing amber color in which light dances on the surface and deep within the glass. Take a moment to enjoy the substantial head that forms when the beer is poured just right. As you enjoy this fine ale, take note of the foam rings that line your glass. Drinking doesn’t just involve taste… take time to enjoy the look and display that your beer provides!

Then take in your first drink… no other ale fills my mouth like this hearty Belgian Ale! I notice different flavors each time I enjoy this ale but for the most part it imparts a slightly sweet yet slightly spicy flavor that is as soft as warm caramel on the tongue. There are also subtle hints of vanilla and maybe even some toffee. At times I’ve tasted (or did I imagine it?!) slight tastes of banana but definitely some sweet spices! As for the aroma of the ale… well… it really smells like banana nut bread!

Keep in mind that Belgian ales are thought to be amongst the best in the world. They are very complex but very, very rewarding to the ale connoisseur! So grab ya some Leffe… get it as cold as you can, pour you a glass and enjoy this awesome ale!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Lagunitas The Hairy Eyeball Ale

Brewed by: Lagunitas Brewing Co.; Petaluma, California USA

Style: American Strong Ale

Glassware: Best served in a mug, pint/shaker, or a snifter.

Personal Notes: Ok, this is my second review on a Lagunitas brew and it will most likely be my last. Is their water coming from Death Valley??!! Oh my gosh this brew was horrid; not even worthy of being used in my yard tonic for fear of killing off all vegetation! It pours up a pleasingly rich dark mahogany colored body with a somewhat nice foamy head. The aromas were very pleasing; filled with toasted malts, sugars, and hints of cherry. The taste (oh my) was definitely NOT to my liking. I don't know what it is but none of their brews possess a well-balanced taste in my opinion. Like a dry, dry wine it was very chalky and it was just something that I could not get around. It was almost like gnawing on a rotted piece of burlap; yeah, it was that bad. So I've tried a few of their brews but don't look for any further reviews on their products (unless someone has just begged and pleaded to buy me one, cause I'm not spending any more of my money on them!).

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Magic Hat Wacko

Brewed by: Magic Hat Brewing Co; Burlington, Vermont USA

Style: Hybrid (Fruit Beer)

Glassware: Best served in the trash (seriously).

Personal Notes: I'm not even gonna waste anyone's time on this one. It sucks big time! This is NOT beer. Seriously, 'wacko' is the perfect term for this brew. I'd much rather eat the bottle than to take another sip of this atrocity!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Shiner Ruby Redbird

Brewed by: Spoetzl Brewery; Shiner, Texas USA

Style: Hybrid (Fruit beer)

Glassware: Best served in a mug or pint/shaker.

Personal Notes: http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/smilies/barf.gif oh yuck!! I should have stopped when I read that this brew was blended with grapefruit and ginger!!! There’s just something about fruit-infused beers that are just not up to my liking! But if you’re into these sorts of hybrids then by all means read on! It pours up a rich amber body with very little head and that’s gone about as soon as you stop pouring the bottle out! The smell of ginger and grapefruit were just too much for me and frankly it is very overpowering. The taste has a bite to it that almost had me spitting it out (but I held back because I didn’t want to have to clean up the mess!). All I tasted was bad ginger and bad grapefruit and it’s very very bitter. Shiner totes that this is the “perfect summer beer”. Well they (and others) can have it that way as I have far better summer beer preferences! If you’re looking for the strange and unusual in the craft brew world, this one’s for you (but not me)!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Bohemia Clasica

Brewed by: Cerveceria Cuauhtemoc Moctezuma, S.A. de C.V.; Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico

Style: Mexican Light Lager

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or a pint/shaker.

Personal Notes: An average brew to say the least. It pours up a pale golden body with a somewhat fizzy head. Marginal scents and flavors of corn and grains. The body is very light and carbonated somewhat heavily. Of the light beer family, there are many others that would be more fulfilling than this brew.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Avery – The Czar

Brewed by: Avery Brewing Co; Boulder, Colorado USA

Style: American Imperial Stout

Glassware: Best served in a snifter or a pint/shaker.

Personal Notes: Oh yeah… another one to add to the AW Beer Hall of Fame!!! This brew pours up a rich black body sporting a rich tan creamy head that stays with the brew for quite some time leaving some nice lacing on the glass while the brew is being enjoyed. One’s sense of smell is flooded with chocolate, roasted hazelnuts and something along the lines of warm snicker-doodle or warm gingerbread cookies. The flavor of this beer is very complex and yet very, very enjoyable. I can’t even find the right words to adequately describe the flavors noted in this brews; but they are all well-balanced and very much to be savored slowly! The body is just how I like a good stout to be; thick, rich and almost chewy! This brew is definitely one to be enjoyed as a dessert (even though I devoured mine along with some rich, spicy hot wings!!!).

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Kingfisher Premium Lager

Brewed by: United Breweries – UB Group | Bangalore, India

Style: Indian Pale Lager

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: This is my first “Indian” brew to review and I am very pleased with it! This brew pours up an excellent golden yellow/amber body color with a decent white fizzy head. Scents and flavors of malts and hops abound in this well-balanced brew. The body feels light and carbonated abundantly. An easy session brew during the hot summer months and tastes good even when it warms a bit. This would be a great brew to have with some poultry or fish/seafood meals as well as will many Indian recipes!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Konig Pilsener

Brewed by: König-Brauerei GmbH; Duisburg, Germany

Style: German Pilsener

Glassware: Best served in a mug or pilsener glass.

Personal Notes: A very good German pilsener! Taken from BeerAdvocate.com: (from the bottle) “Das Konig der Biere (the King of Beer); Purum Laudatur (Purest [Highest] Praise); Gebraut nach dem Reinheitzgebot von 1516 (Brewed According to the Reinheitsgebot [Purity Law] of 1516)”. This brews pours up a clear yellow/amber colored body with a nice frothy head (not a thick one but nice enough!). Wonderful scents and flavors of hops and robust malts. The body is very light with just the right amount of carbonation. A nice German pils indeed! A great compliment to a spicy fish/seafood meal!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Rahr & Sons Bucking Bock

Brewed by: Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA

Style: American Maibock / Helles Bock

Glassware: Best served in a flute, pilsner glass, or a mug.

Personal Notes: Oh sweet day in May!! This is one AWESOME bock! An awesome session brew to be enjoyed over and over and over!! This brew pours up a rich almost caramel-y body and sports and amazing frothy head. The scents are absolutely intoxicating! Sweet toasted malts mixed in with some caramel and subtle hints of baked apples. The flavors in this brew are stunning to say the least! Loads of malts and an exceptionally balanced sweet/bitter bite with a solid finish that entices you to your next savoring. Again this is an exceptional brew to be enjoyed with some fish/seafood meals or all by itself! Excellent work Fritz!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Saint Arnold Summer Pils

Brewed by: Saint Arnold Brewing Co.; Houston, Texas USA

Style: American Pilsner

Glassware: Best served in a mug or pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: This was a fairly good pilsner. Pours up a very clear, light yellow/amber body with a minimal fizzy head. Scents and flavors of malts and hops entice the senses. Just the right bitter kick on this smooth and easy drinking brew. Goes good with a grilled chicken or spicy fish meal! Makes for a good session brew on a hot summer day.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout

Brewed by: Samuel Smith Old Brewery (Tadcaster) | Tadcaster, United Kingdom (England)

Style: English Oatmeal Stout

Glassware: Best served in a mug or pint/shaker.

Personal Notes: Well, here’s another addition to the AW BHoF!!! This hearty brew pours up a rich, dark (near black) body sporting an exceptional tan frothy head which provides for some excellent lacing as this brew was savored. The sense of smell is flooded with rich oats, robust/strong coffees, malts, caramel, and molasses. The taste is absolutely out of this world! Smooth, rich, creamy; these terms pale in comparison of the uniqueness of this fine brew! There’s just enough bite from the hops that keep this from being on overly sweet brew. What I enjoyed most were the teasings of toffee and chocolate aftertastes. Definitely a brew I would enjoy with smoked meats or a wild game dinner!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Widmer Brothers Drifter Pale Ale

Brewed by: Widmer Brothers Brewing Company | Portland, Oregon USA

Style: American Pale Ale

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint/shaker.

Personal Notes: A good ale that almost had me guessing that it was a hybrid (fruit beer with grapefruit/orange) in disguise! This brew pours up a copper-colored body and a good frothy head. Scents of grapefruit and orange abound. Flavors of grapefruit/orange are dominant followed up with a well-balanced hit of hops and malts and finishes off with a tart aftertaste. As strong as the citrus-y are, I’m not quite sure what would go well with this brew; therefore I would opt to enjoying it all by itself.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Boddingtons Pub Ale

Brewed by: Boddingtons | Manchester, United Kingdom (England)

Style: English Pale Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass (shaker/nonic/becker).

Personal Notes: This has DEFINITELY been one of the most interesting brews I’ve tried in a long, long time! This brew pours up a gorgeous copper colored body and it’s the pour that’s truly, well, intoxicating!! As this brew is being poured it is immediately clouded up from the bottom of the glass to the top of the liquid. And then suddenly the head begins rolling up and the body of the brew clears off revealing its rich dark color. The head of this brew is absolutely the best I’ve seen and tasted; ever! Foamy, thick, and rich. And it stays with the brew long after the liquid is gone! Scents of honeycomb and warm bread are detected right off the bat. Not too heavy, not too light; just right. Flavors of a well balanced set of malts and hops; maybe a little bit of lemon grass there at the end. The body of this brew is so smooth and creamy and there’s not a lot of carbonation going on which makes for an easy brew to drink and not get filled up too quickly. Definitely a great brew to have with some spicy Cajun shrimp or buttery lobster tails!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Indian Wells Lobotomy Bock

Brewed by: Indian Wells Brewing Company | Inyokern, California USA

Style: American Dopplebock

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or a mug.

Personal Notes: I’d class this one as a near-average brew; not bad but not much to rave about. It pours up what looks just like a cola; which made me think about an ice cold Dr. Pepper at the time. No head at all; but that could be contributed to the fact that my glass was not a ‘beer clean’ glass. Aromas of sweet malts and caramel teased the sense of smell while flavors of that same sweet malt along with some English toffee were detected. This is a lager so be ready for a thinner body feel if you have some; don’t let that rich dark colored body trick your mind into something thick and rich is in that glass!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Baltika #6 Porter

Brewed by: Pivzavod Baltika / Baltic Beverages Holding | St. Petersburg, Russian Federation

Style: Russian/Baltic Porter

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint/shaker/nonic/becker/tumbler.

Personal Notes: What an amazing Russian brew!! This bad boy pours up a deep dark brown (almost black) body sporting a huge four-finger tan frothy head. Head retention was a good as it stayed with the brew as it reduced down to about a one-finger head. The smell was just as amazing with wisps of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and something akin to roasted hazelnuts. The flavors just add to the symphony of delight; dark chocolate, cocoa powder (like taking cocoa powder and adding just a tad bit of water to make a paste and eating it!), caramel, warm bread, plums, raisins, a twinge of hops, cloves, and more! This brew is full bodied (but not too thick) and no real detection of alcohol. Definitely not a session brew as this one is made to be savored very slowly as I found the tastes and smells just amassed as the brew slowly warmed up. Something that could easily be enjoyed all year long, I can see this one being especially comforting on those wintry days spent by the fireside. Excellent when paired up with hearty steaks or wild game dinners; and enjoyed just as easily all by itself.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Smith’s The Famous Taddy Porter

Brewed by: Samuel Smith Old Brewery (Tadcaster) | Tadcaster, United Kingdom (England)

Style: English Porter

Glassware: Best served in a pint (becker/nonic/tumbler) or a mug.

Personal Notes: Yet another entry going into the AW BHoF!!! Definitely one of the best porters I’ve savored in a long, long time! This brew pours up a rich dark brown body with a frothy tan head that leaves some of the most exquisite lacing I’ve yet to behold! The scents coming off of this brew were just exceptional – vanilla, chocolate, syrup, and rich coffee. The flavors matched up strongly with robust hits of vanilla, chocolate and coffee. The body of the brew was rich and creamy; one meant to be savored slowly. This brew tastes best when it is chilled but not cold. This would be an awesome accompaniment to a hearty steak or a wild game dinner.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Samuel Adams Latitude 48 IPA

Brewed by: Boston Beer Company | Boston, Massachusetts USA

Style: American IPA

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint/shaker glass.

Personal Notes: First things first, me and IPAs have a hard time getting along. I keep trying them but there is just something in those brews that just does not appeal to my tastes. Nonetheless, on with this review. This brew pours up a rich amber colored body with a decent 1-finger head that stays with the brew for a little while. Immediately upon opening the scent of heavy hops is presented along with some subtle hints of malt. The taste is what I've come to expect from IPAs - bitter! Very, very bitter and very, very overwhelming. For me it was just too much but other brew lovers may be looking for a brew that possesses that bitter bite, if so this one is for you.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Big Sky Heavy Horse Scotch Ale

Brewed by: Big Sky Brewing Company | Missoula, Montana USA

Style: American Scotch Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint/nonic, snifter or tulip glass.

Personal Notes: Another entry into the AW BHoF! Big Sky nailed it with this brew; simply nailed it! It pours up a deep mahogany body with a nice 1-finger head that hangs around for quite a while. Scents of rich malts and dark fruits like cherries and plums precede the flavors of sweet malts, caramel and dark fruits. Put the sense of smell and taste into overdrive by breathing in through your nose just as you are drinking some of this fine brew!! Oh yeah! There's just enough hit of hops to make this one amazingly fine brew! This is a easy session brew so keep track of how many you enjoy! This brew is a hit with a hearty grilled steak or smoked salmon!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Breckenridge Vanilla Porter

Brewed by: Breckenridge Brewery | Denver, Colorado USA

Style: American Porter

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint/nonic glass.

Personal Notes: Simply put ... this is one nice brew! This brew pours up a near pitch black body with a good 1-finger head. Aromas of vanilla (duh!) and coffee match up to the well-balanced flavors of vanilla and coffee in this brew. The body is smooth, creamy and has just the right amount of 'thickness' that one would want is this great brew! Pair this bad boy up with grilled steaks or smoked meats or even some wild game for dinner and you'll be on the Bliss Express!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Great Divide Yeti Imperial Stout

Brewed by: Great Divide Brewing Company | Denver, Colorado USA

Style: American Imperial Stout

Glassware: Best served in a snifter or perhaps a pint or nonic glass.

Personal Notes: Let there be no misconceptions. This is an excellent brew! This brew pours up a pitch black body with a tan head that is absolutely meant to be admired! The head sticks with the beer for a very long time and leaves some amazing lacing while you’re enjoying this brew! Dominating scents and flavors include: roasted malts, hot caramel, warm toffee, robust coffee. The balance between the hops and the malts is just superb! This is such an easy drinking brew and one that I know I’ll enjoy all throughout the year; especially when paired up with some slow-grilled steaks or perhaps as a dessert brew all by itself.

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Rahr & Sons Bourbon Barrel Aged Winter Warmer

Brewed by: Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA

Style: American Strong Ale / Winter Warmer

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or a becker/nonic glass.

Personal Notes: Mark another awesome brew to be placed in the AW BHoF!! This is simply an exquisite brew! It pours up rich dark brown (nearly black) body with an intense foamy head that lingers for quite a long time and leaves some awesome lacing on the glass! Scents and flavors of bourbon, vanilla, malts, and caramel; none of which overpower the other. There’s just enough twinge from the alcohol that lets you know you’re drinking a hearty brew so don’t rush; sit back and enjoy slowly! This brew has just the right amount of thickness and smoothness that reminds me of a fine well-aged bourbon. Definitely a brew to stock up on and let the bottles age like a fine wine! I can see this being a awesome brew to enjoy during the wintry months but it’s one that can be easily enjoyed year round. I think I’ll pair this up with a hearty rib-eye, soon!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Tommyknocker Imperial Nut Brown Ale

Brewed by: Tommyknocker Brewery | Idaho Springs, Colorado USA

Style: American Brown Ale

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint/nonic glass.

Personal Notes: Probably one of THE best brown ales I have ever savored! This brew pours up a rich chocolaty brown body with a good finger-thick head of foam that laces the glass very well. Scents and flavors of maple syrup, dark chocolates, caramel, and fresh-brewed robust coffee. This brew tastes just amazing; not too sweet and just enough hops to balance this brew out nicely. With just the right heaviness in the body and finishing off nice, crisp and clean, it was hard waiting between savors to have the next one! Going to pair this fine brew up with some steaks and decadent burgers!!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Belhaven Scottish Ale

Brewed by: Belhaven Brewery Company Ltd.; East Lothian, Scotland

Style: Scottish ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes:

From Scotland’s oldest brewery (since 1719) that is still in operation today, this is one heck of an enjoyable ale!! This ale sports a deep, dark walnut color and a somewhat thick (slightly heavy) rich malty, nutty flavor. Depending on how you pour it, the head can froth up from 1 finger to 3 fingers and stick with you through the entire drink! The warm fermentation process yields very subtle fruity flavors that are in no way overbearing but rather just a slight aftertaste that coincides with its very smooth and creamy finish. Enjoy some today!!

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Got this brew @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Gordon Biersch Märzen

Brewed by: Gordon Biersch Brewing Company; San Jose, California USA

Style: märzen/oktoberfest

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug.

Personal Notes:

When it comes to lagers, I find my self reaching for Gordon Biersch’s Marzen more and more these days! It’s deep, dark amber body and frothy white head (which holds well and leaves tiny rings of lace around the glass) are a delight to behold. The body of the beer is creamy and very smooth across the palate. The flavors are very robust and lightly sweet with a smooth finish that beckons you to sample more of its hearty flavors. Truly one to have in stock and enjoyed with the best of friends!

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Got this brew @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Heineken Lager

Brewed by: Heineken Nederland B.V. | Zoeterwoude, Netherlands

Style: European Pale Lager

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass.

Personal Notes: Of the macro brews, Heineken is one of those at the top of the list for me. It pours up a vibrant pale amber body and a nice foamy head that dissipates quickly and then tends to leave good lacing on the sides of the glass. The aroma is just as I remember from over the years, very clean and possesses a slight hoppy hit. Flavors of hops and just a tad of sweet malt; there's also somewhat of a lemon grass flavor floating around here and there. Very easy to drink and makes for a suitable session brew from a macro-brewery.

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Rahr & Sons Snowmageddon

Brewed by: Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA

Style: American Imperial Stout

Glassware: Best served in a snifter or a pint/shaker/nonic.

Personal Notes: Fritz just keeps putting out some solid brews! This brew pours up a luxurious jet black body with a well defined head that stays for a long time and leaves loads of lace on the glass. Scents and flavors of roasted malts, coffee and chocolate. The slight hit of alcohol plays well with the fine line being danced between sweetness and bitterness. The body is just the way I like these stouts – slightly thick and very creamy. As with most stouts, let them warm somewhat and the scents and flavors just explode with more robustness!

The following is the commercial description of this brew which I thought was rather interesting:

February 11, 2010 – cold dark and snowing. Not any ordinary snow – but instead a heavy, mean, ugly snow that spilled over the brewery. Leaving the brewery that late evening – who would have known there would be no brewery that next morning.

February 12, 2010 – awoke to the sounds of twisted metal, gushing water and alarms as tons of snow came crashing down through the roof and into the brewery. We tried to save what we could and accept the loss of what we could not. As the day waned, through many a friends helping hands, a new beginning was forming. This was not the end, but alas a start to something new and wonderful.

Snowmageddon is a tribute to those who stood by and supported the rebuild of Rahr and Sons Brewery. Hard work, dedication, love and passion for brewing is what makes this late winter selection so special. Snowmageddon is a limited release available annually in late February to celebrate the rebirth of a brewery. Snowmageddon will be an annual limited release, with the style changing from year to year. This first year is an imperial oatmeal stout, based on a winning recipe by a local homebrewer.

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Rahr & Sons Ugly Pug

Brewed by: Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA

Style: Schwarzbier

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or a mug.

Personal Notes: Another outstanding brew from the boys at Rahr & Sons! This brew pours up dark brown body sporting a frothy off-white colored head (leaves minimal lacing). Scents full of coffee and a beefy brew loaded with roasted malts giving off a fresh-baked bread smell with lots and lots of yeast. The flavor is that of a robust beer with a lot of bread or yeast flavors with just the right about of bitterness and a dab of sweetness to balance it all out. This is a very easy-drinking brew so keep track!! Planning on pairing this up with some brats or wurst!

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Got this brew @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Abbey Monk’s Ale

Brewed by: Abbey Beverage Co. | Pecos, New Mexico USA

Style: Pale Ale

Glassware: Best served in a mug, snifter, tulip, or an over-sized wine glass.

Personal Notes: This brew pours up a very hazy apricot-colored body with a minimal heads and no lacing (at least in this sampling). Citrus-y scents waft about immediately upon opening and plenty of hops as well. Lots of fruity flavors (mostly apple) and citrus-y flavors as well. There just a tad bit of sweetness in the background but lots of hops hits you right off the bat. Not too much, not too little. Thinking about pairing this up with some spicy fish tacos next time!

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Got this brew @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Guinness Extra Stout

Brewed by: Guinness Ltd. | Dublin, Ireland

Style: Irish Dry Stout

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pilsner/nonic glass.

Personal Notes: Whoa! What an amazing stout! This brew pours up a decadent black colored body with an amazing thick foamy tan head that has superb retention and leaves amazing lacing on the sides of the glass. Wonderful scents of chocolate, roasted malts and some dark fruits (like plums or prunes). And the flavors, oh my! Roasted malts galore with the sharp bite of hops mingled in with coffee and chocolates. The body is dry with just a slight amount of carbonation. A brew truly made to accompany a hearty grilled porterhouse steak!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy

Brewed by: Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company; Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin USA

Style: American Fruit/Lambic

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or mug

Personal Notes:

Whoa! When they say lemony flavor… they mean lemony flavor!! I’m not a big fan of ‘fruity’ beers but this one was somewhat enjoyable. It’s a good summer beer but only in small quantities because of the lemony taste which somewhat overpowers the flavor of the beer. Would definitely be a good ‘cooking’ beer as the beer and lemon flavors would greatly compliment fish/seafood dishes!

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[AWMiller]

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Brew: Morland Old Speckled Hen

Brewed by: Greene King / Morland Brewery | Suffolk, United Kingdom (England)

Style: English Pale Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or a becker/nonic.

Personal Notes: This brew pours up a dark amber (maybe even copper) colored body with a foamy near-tan colored head which dissipates down to a thin foamy head that leaves suitable lacing on the glass for quite some time. Scents full of caramel and butterscotch along with some bread/biscuits here and there. Flavors of melted caramel and warm butterscotch pudding along with the rich malts and a touch of hops keeps all the flavors in balance without being overly ‘hoppy’ or overly sweet. This would be a great brew to have with some redfish on the half-shell or perhaps a spicy flounder meal.

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Got this brew @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Real Ale Brewhouse Brown Ale

Brewed by: Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA

Style: American Brown Ale

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass or a mug.

Personal Notes: What a great session brew! The brew pours up a ruby-brown body with a finger-thick short-lived head that leaves bare minimal lacing on the glass. The aroma on this brew is amazing! Toasted malts, chocolates and hints of caramel. The flavors are just as enjoyable filled with malts, chocolates and the oh so subtle hint of caramel and warm bread. This is a great brew to pair up with some grilled pork rack or perhaps some slow smoked wild game!

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Got this brew @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Warsteiner Premium Verum

Brewed by: Warsteiner Brauerei | Warstein, Germany

Style: German Pilsner

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass or a mug.

Personal Notes: This brew is a great session brew! It pours up a light, golden colored body (almost like the color of a starfruit) and sports a frothy/bubbly head that dissipates rather quickly down to a fine film of a head. The smell is not overbearing by any means; filled with subtle hints of hops and a light citrus-y smell. The flavors are filled with the nice bite of hops touched up with some warm hints of citrus fruits and something grassy (lemon-grass perhaps?). The body of the brew is awesome; no bitter aftertaste, very light, and a clean finish. Definitely a brew to be enjoyed with some fish/seafood or better yet with some brats/wurst and some sauerkraut!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Wild Blue Blueberry Lager

Brewed by: Anheuser-Busch, Inc. | Saint Louis, Missouri USA

Style: American Fruit/Lambic

Glassware: Best served in a mug or a pint glass.

Personal Notes: Not a bad brew to have after a long day of some serious yard work! Just pour over crushed ice and add in a few splashes of tequila and you’re good to go! This brews pours up a near purple (wine-colored) body with a nice frothy head that lingers around for a little bit but dissipates and then leaves some nice lacing on the glass. Scents of, yeah you guessed it, blueberries (duh)! And flavors, well, blueberries! To be honest this is more like a wine cooler than a beer in my humble opinion. Argue the difference in ABVs but I’ll argue back in the overly sweet taste that I needed to temper just a tad to make it more enjoyable! Just watch how many you down with this brew! Enjoy it all by itself, foods will just dilute the ‘robust’ blueberry flavor.

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Sierra Nevada Summerfest 2011

Brewed by: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA

Style: Czech Pilsener

Glassware: Best served in a pilsner glass, mug, or a stange.

Personal Notes: Another entry into my personal BHoF! This brew pours a rich amber-gold colored body and sports a frothy/bubbly head which dissipates to a thin head with good retention and lacing. Scents of sweet malts and citrus-y fruits. Flavors of sweet malts and citrus-y fruits are absolutely amazing! The body is light, crisp, and dry which makes for an incredibly easy-drinking brew. When compared against other Czech lagers (whether imported or domestic) this one has them beat hands down! Definitely a brew to be enjoyed on hot Texas summer days; but also an excellent brew to enjoy year-round. luminous pale gold, very slight haze, and stark white head that retains a thin head for the duration of the pint. An excellent pairing with some grilled fish/seafood!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Brew: Urthel Saisonniere

Brewed by: De Leyerth Brouwerijen (Urthel) | Ruiselede, Belgium

Style: Belgian Ale Saison/Farmhouse

Glassware: Best served in a pint glass (becker or nonic), a tulip glass or an oversized wine glass.

Personal Notes: Yet another entry into my personal BHoF! This brew pours up a hazy amber-gold body and an enormous frothy head that leaves some amazing lacing on the glass. Scents of yeast, grains (like wheat), and fruits. Flavors of wheat and lemons along with subtle spices and something akin to warm butter. This brew is meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed for all the intense flavors and textures that it yields. An excellent brew to have with some grilled poultry or perhaps some spicy grilled fish/shrimp.

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Dundee Original Honey Brown Lager

Brewed by: Genesee Brewing Co./Dundee Brewing Co. | Rochester, New York USA

Style: Amber/Red Lager

My preferred glassware: Shaker

My personal notes:
This is a great session brew! It pours up a rich copper-colored body with a one-finger foamy head that dissipates quickly. Scents of honey (duh!), caramel, malts, warm bread. Flavor is a twinge of sweetness from the honey, caramel, and Hungry Jack biscuits! No heavy aftertaste, just a good, clean finish. Goes darn good with some homemade tacos and burritos.


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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestartbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Birra Moretti La Rossa

Brewed by: Heineken Italia | Milano, Italy

Style: Doppelbock

My preferred glassware: Shaker

My personal notes:
A great Italian session brew! This brew pours up a rich ruby-brown body with a frothy two-finger head. Scents and flavors of caramel, roasted malts, and sweet molasses. Very rich with a clean, crisp finish and no harsh aftertaste. This would go great paired up with some dry-rubbed/smoked ribs!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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North Coast Old Rasputin

Brewed by: North Coast Brewing Co. | Ft. Bragg, California USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

My preferred glassware: Snifter

My personal notes:
What an amazing imperial stout!! This brew pours up a rich, black body sporting a frothy one-finger thick tan-colored head that dissipates slowly into a tan-colored ring (with very good retention) that leaves incredible lacing on the sides of the glass. Scents of roasted malts, dark chocolates, strong coffee and alcohol. Flavors of the same embody a light syrupy body texture with just a slight tinge of bitter aftertaste (but that is what makes it so good!). As the brew warms, the flavors and scents just intensify! This is a very easy-drinking imperial stout so go slow and enjoy the robustness of this brew. A great brew year-round but especially one to be enjoyed in the wintry months next to a roaring fire!


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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Abita Turbodog

Brewed by: Abita Brewing Co.; Abita Springs, Louisiana USA

Style: English Brown Ale

My preferred glassware: Pint glass

My personal notes:
Probably one of the best offerings one can enjoy from Abita! This brew pours up a deep, dark chocolaty brown body and sports a rich, foamy tan-colored head. Scents of espresso, caramel, roasted malts and even those of a well aged bourbon. Flavors of slow-roasted coffee, dark chocolates and bits of toffee; also mixed in this complex brew are dark fruits (akin to plums). This is a great session brew and definitely one to be enjoyed with some grilled meats or even a good wild game dinner!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Meantime London Porter

Brewed by: Meantime Brewing Company Limited | London, United Kingdom (England)

Style: English Porter

My preferred glassware: Pint glass

My personal notes:
Now this is one robust porter!!! This brew pours up a hearty dark brown body sporting a frothy tan-colored head that has excellent retention and lacing qualities. Warm scents and flavors of roasted malts, warm hazelnuts, raisins, chocolate and slow-roasted coffee along with some subtle hints of well-aged bourbon. Not too bitter and not too sweet with just the right ‘bite’ of aftertaste that beckons you to have another sip. The body texture is very creamy so go slow and enjoy this fine porter; no need to rush or quaff! A fine porter to enjoy year-round with some grilled steaks or a hearty wild game dinner; or just all by itself!

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Got this brew @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com).

[AWMiller]

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Real Ale Phoenixx Double ESB - Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA

Style: Extra Special/Strong Bitter (ESB)

My personal notes: Bitter is as bitter does! This brew poured up a murky, coppery colored body with a one-finger head with good retention and thick lacing. Aromas of malts, caramel, a nip of citrus and hops. Flavors of roasted malts, caramel and citrus followed up with a hoppy/bitter aftertaste. The brew is crisp and smooth with a good bitter finish. Would be a good brew for the BBQ!

[AWMiller]

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Flying Dog Old Scratch Amber Lager - Flying Dog Brewery | Frederick, Maryland USA

Style: Steam Beer

My personal notes: This brew poured up a dark, rich copper colored body with a one-finger bubbly off-white head that left a good deal amount of lacing. Scents and flavors of toffee, caramel, malts, warm butter. The body is somewhat creamy/malty with a very smooth finish and a great balance between the malts and hops. Would be great paired up with some grilled poultry or a spicy fish/seafood meal.

[AWMiller]

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Kostritzer Schwarzbier
Kostritzer Schwarzbierbrauerei GmbH & Co. | Bad Kostritz/Thuringen, Germany

Style: Schwarzbier

My personal notes: Another great German schwarz! This brew poured up a hearty black-colored body with a one-finger tan-colored head that left good lacing on the sides of the glass. Scents of roasted malts and dark chocolates and a subtle undertone of hops. Flavors of rich malts and dark chocolates. The body is smooth with hardly any bitter aftertaste but rather a somewhat silky, chocolaty aftertaste which gets better the more the brew returns to room temperature. Definitely a brew to have following a hearty brat/wurst dinner!

[AWMiller]

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Deschutes The Abyss 2010 Reserve
Deschutes Brewery | Bend, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com)

Style: American Imperial/Double Stout

My personal notes:

Oh how sweet that deep, dark Abyss …

For quite some time I have been reserving THE number one spot of my Beer Hall of Fame for THE best brew. Deschutes Abyss is THE brew! From the moment I peeled off the wax covering and removed the cap I knew that this would be a brew like none other. Many friends and brew-aficionados had long been telling me that this was the brew of brews that were along my taste preferences. What a fool I was to wait so long to partake in this enticing beverage!

After refrigerating for a few days and then into the freezer for an hour, I let this brew ‘rest’ for an hour to warm up a tad. This brew poured up a decadent near-black colored body sporting a healthy mocha-colored foamy head with retention like I’ve never experienced (so much that I had a lot of foam left on that last sip!) and lacing that left you holding the glass and admiring the artwork long after that last sip was taken. Amazing scents of warm cocoa, roasted malts, alcohol (not too much), and slow roasted robust coffee. This coffee is complex and tantalizing with flavors of dark chocolates, coffee, roasted hazelnuts and hints of vanilla and well-aged bourbon that beckons you to take another sip just as soon as you finished taking one! The body of this brew is just astounding with the just-right thickness and that smooth, clean finish with a warm, bitter, chocolaty, light bourbon aftertaste. Delicious.

I enjoyed this beverage all by itself and it’s definitely a warmer-upper!! At 11% ABV (alcohol by volume) this bad boy does the job right! So it is definitely NOT a brew to be quaffed! Slow down, relax, and enjoy. While this brew is recommend to be enjoyed during the wintry months, it is definitely one that can be enjoyed all year round. When the next reserve is produced, I know I will be stocking up and cellaring many, many bottles of this fine beverage. Heck, I might even share a bottle; might, that is!

Enjoy it by itself or pair this brew up with a hearty slow-grilled porterhouse steak or some wild game (venison, buffalo, feral hog, etc.) or even some slow-smoked brats/sausage. Either way, you will enjoy this amazing brew! Hats off to the folks at Deschutes; you nailed it with The Abyss!

[AWMiller]

just back from vacation! getting some write-ups ready and will be back to posting regularly soon!

[AWMiller]

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Choc Beer Brewmaster’s Signature Belgian-Style Dubbel
Krebs, Oklahoma USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Dubbel

My personal notes: Now just because this brew hails from Oklahoma, don’t let that stop you from trying this exceptional beer! It pours up a rich mahogany-colored body sporting a tan-colored head that lingers for quite a long time and leave a good amount of lacing on the glass. Incredible scents of toffee, caramel, and dark fruits (like plums, dark cherries, etc.) along with vanilla, warm nuts, and roasted malt. Flavors of the same with none overpowering the other. The body is rich and creamy with a spicy finish that is just absolutely amazing! Definitely a brew to be paired up with a hearty beef dish or slow-grilled steaks!

[AWMiller]

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Augustijn Ale
Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Tripel

My personal notes: This brew makes for a rather good session beer. It pours up a murky apple-juice colored body with a huge foamy head with good retention and loads of lacing. Scents of yeast and malts intermingled with a bit of honey and ripe bananas. Flavors are near the same with the yeasts and malts and some spices with a tinge of alcohol and something near the lines of a sour mash taste at the finish. The body is light and thin with an ease of drinkability. For those that haven’t dabbled with tripels, this is a good start but know that tripels should possess a flavor complexity greater than what this brew presents. Would go well with some grilled pork topped with grilled peaches or pineapple.

[AWMiller]

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Gulden Draak
Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Strong Dark Ale (Dark Tripel)

My personal notes: Now this is one amazing dark tripel! This brew pours up a rich dark brown colored body with an incredibly frothy tan-colored head loaded up with amazing retention and lacing! Scents of hot caramel, buttery toffee and dark fruits (like plums or dark cherries) along with slight hints of bananas or warm banana-nut bread. Hearty flavors of caramel and toffee are largely present followed up by a smooth, creamy, non-bitter finish with just the right amount of alcohol taste to the brew. Take your time with this brew as it is definitely not a quaffer (as I cannot stands beers like that!). Pair this up with a slow-grilled steak dinner and you have a winner!

[AWMiller]

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Leinenkugel’s 1888 Bock
Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company | Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin USA
Purchased @ Olivers Fine Foods (Mansfield, Texas USA)

Style: Lager – Bock

My personal notes: Of the line of Leinenkugel beers, this one is my favorite! When poured I would compare it to looking like a fine cherry Dr. Pepper (without all that carbonation!!). The head is very robust and tan-colored with some nice lacing as you enjoy the beer. The flavor is just a nice smooth roasted flavor; nothing overbearing nor standout-ish. For a beer that’s not too complex I find this one very satisfying; one to be enjoyed over and over! An excellent pairing with a wild game dinner!

[AWMiller]

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Avery Joe’s Premium American Pilsner
Avery Brewing Company | Boulder, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Lager – Strong Lager

My personal notes: For those that like a lager/pilsner with some extra ‘ooomph’ this is the brew for you! This brew pours up a vibrant straw colored body (almost like Mello Yello!) and a nice fizzy head that tapers down quickly to a thin film and leaves minimal lacing on the sides of the glass. Strong aromas of hops hit you right upon opening. Flavors filled to the brim with hops (if you like bitter then you will like this brew!) followed up with a slightly sweet, somewhat biscuit-like flavors and finish. Very light bodied and easy to drink, this brew would be an awesome compliment to your summer-time BBQs or with a nice spicy cajun/seafood dinner!

[AWMiller]

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Pete’s Wicked Ale
Pete’s Brewing Company; San Antonio, Texas USA
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: English brown ale

ABV - 5.3%

Personal Notes: It took a while to get into the brown ale but it finally ‘grew’ on me and this is a nice beer to have on those fall days beside a roaring fire. It’s reddish, copper color sports an off-white foamy head which settles down much more quickly than I would like. It has a nice caramel aroma with a creamy, smooth body with a faint grainy finish. I enjoyed it for a couple of beers but anything more than that and the flavor really begins to decline. Darn good with a hearty hamburger though!

[AWMiller]

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Piraat Ale - Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Belgian IPA

My personal notes: Of the IPA line of brews, Belgian IPAs are sure to rank at the top! This brew pours up a creamy, murky, hazy apricot colored body sporting a bubbly two-finger head with great retention and lacing. Served just slightly cooler than room temperature so that the scents and flavors are maximized. Slight hints of apricots (possibly apples?), hops, alcohol, and warm biscuits. Flavors of apricots, honeycomb (not the cereal!), just a hint of cloves, and a bite of hops at the end. The body is very creamy, almost silky. This brew is best enjoyed all by itself after a hearty beef/wild game dinner.

[AWMiller]

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Bornem Dubbel - Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Dubbel/Trappist

My personal notes: Yet another great dubbel!! This brew pours up a robust dark, cherry-cola colored body and a slight bubbly head that dissipated quickly leaving minimal lacing. Sweet aromas of raisins (maybe it was figs?), caramel, molasses, spices. Serve just slightly cooler than room temperature the flavors in this brew are just incredible! Caramel, raisins, cloves. The body is very smooth, medium in heaviness and just a slight ‘hoppy’ bite with a light alcoholic tinge at the finish. This is a very easily drinkable brew and pairs nicely with a beef dish of some sort (especially Shepherds Pie!).

[AWMiller]

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Full Sail Amber Ale - Full Sail Brewery | Hood River, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Amber/Red Ale

My personal notes: Hands down this is one refreshing amber ale! This brew pours up a dark copper-colored body sporting a frothy two-finger thick tan-colored head that has good retention and lacing effects. Served fridge-cold this brew produced scents of apricots, toasted malts and a very slight citrus-y/hoppy note. It has a very crisp/smooth feel with lots of spices, apricots, caramel, malts and finishes up with a slight hoppy bite. This brew would go nicely with a rich or spicy fish/seafood dinner!

[AWMiller]

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Bornem Triple - Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Tripel/Trappist

My personal notes: This brew poured up a hazy golden colored body with a one-finger bubbly head that dissipated quickly and left some lacing effects. Served ‘fridge-cold’ there were scents of citrus fruits, malts and definitely some yeast. It has a medium body with flavors of dried fruits (apricots, pears); slightly malty and has a clean ‘hoppy’ finish that is not too bitter. Grilled pork steaks (thick ones; two-inch thick that is!) covered with an apricot marmalade would be the perfect pairing with this brew in my opinion!!

[AWMiller]

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Bruegel Amber Ale - Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Amber/Red Ale

My personal notes: This brew poured up a rich copper-colored body with a thick foamy head with great retention and lacing effects. Served slightly cooler than room temperature, the aromas of apples, malts and yeast (biscuits or bread) were just amazing. This medium-bodied brew produced some incredible flavors of warm caramels, sweet malts, and candy apples followed up with a slightly ‘hoppy’ finish. This would pair up well with a spicy stuffed shrimp meal or perhaps some halibut or flounder!

[AWMiller]

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Big Sky Summer Honey - Big Sky Brewing Company | Missoula, Montana USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Pale Ale

My personal notes: Under the cap – “If yer gonna be stoopid, ya gotta be tough!” This brew poured up a clear golden body with a one-finger head (from a somewhat vigorous pour). Retention was minimal reducing down to a bubbly film on top with minimal lacing effects. Smell- Lots of sweet honey and spices throughout. Served ‘fridge-cold’. Scents and flavors of honey (duh!) and various spices and very little detection of hops or malts throughout. This is definitely a great session brew worthy of appearing at your BBQ (pulled pork, smoked sausages, brisket, etc.)!

[AWMiller]

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Choc Beer 1919 - Krebs Brewing Co / Choc Brewing Co. | Krebs, Oklahoma USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Lager – Wheat Beer

ABV: 5%

My personal notes: This is one great session brew! This brew poured up a cloudy, hazy, murky golden colored body with a small fizzy head that dissipated quickly and left minimal lacing. Very citrus-y, lots of hefty malts and yeast. I did not detect the usual banana scents that are usual in this brew style. This wheat brew was a nice change from most other hefeweizens (although I like to keep hefes and wheats in their own categories) as it had a nice, smooth, creamy texture and very easy to drink. A great brew to pair up with some grilled chicken or turkey; perhaps some dove stuffed with jalapeno and cream cheese!

[AWMiller]

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Real Ale Lost Gold IPA - Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – IPA

ABV - 6.6%

My personal notes: Well I might have found an IPA that is going to help me along in liking IPAs! Yeah I’m a malt-head but I do try and get a liking for IPAs as much as I can! This brew poured up a warm copper-colored body sporting a bubbly head which dissipated quickly and left minimal lacing. Lemon-grass, fruits (lemons, oranges), hints of caramel and malts. Light bodied with a warm smooth finish that had me thinking of warm biscuits (definitely not anything like other IPAs that I have tried where the finish had me puckering like I licked the outer surface off of a thousand lemon heads!!). If I can find more IPAs like this I think I could get the hang of them! This would be awesome paired up with some spicy seafood dish such as grilled fish or grilled shrimp!

[AWMiller]

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Abita Satsuma Harvest Wit - Abita Brewing Co. | Abita Springs, Louisiana USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale - Witbier

ABV - 5.1%

My personal notes: A very refreshing witbier (white beer)! This brew poured up a hazy amber-colored body with a nice foamy head with good retention and lacing. Lots of fruits (pears and apricots with a touch of lemon) and lemon-grass suit up for a nice bright bitter bite followed up with a smooth sweet finish. The body is very light and with an ease of drinkability that you need to keep track of how many you are having! Definitely a good brew to have on-hand during the summer months and would pair up nicely with chicken fajitas or fish tacos!!

[AWMiller]

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Flying Dog Woody Creek Witbier
Flying Dog Brewery | Frederick, Maryland USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Witbier

ABV - 4.8%

My personal notes: Yowzers what a delicious witbier; definitely going into my Brew Hall of Fame!!! This brew poured up a cloudy straw-colored body sporting a huge frothy head with awesome retention and lacing! Hints of clove, lemon-grass, sweet malts, spices, mellow yeast and light citrus-y fruits (lemons, oranges). The body is very light and exceptionally refreshing; scents and flavors complement well with none overpowering the other. Definitely a go-t0 brew for those summer BBQs or right alongside some hearty chicken fajitas or succulent fish tacos!

[AWMiller]

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Young's Double Chocolate Stout
Wells & Young’s Ltd | Bedford, United Kingdom (England)
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Milk/Sweet Stout

ABV - 5.2%

My personal notes: Oh blissful chocolaty goodness! Yet another entry into the BHoF!! This brew poured up a deep, dark mahogany-colored body with a rich, thick, tan-colored, creamy head with substantial retention and lacing. Robust coffee, dark sweet chocolates, and just a slight tinge of hops on the finish that makes this stout something to be treasured oh so slowly! The flavors are very well balanced from a fine dance of the sweets and bitters that form this medium-bodied, velvety smooth brew into something to be enjoyed after a hearty meal. Have this brew all by itself as having with with a meal is only going to deter from its robust goodness. But for the daring, pour this over some vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a dessert that will blow you away!!

[AWMiller]

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Estrella Damm
Damm S. A. | Barcelona, Spain
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Lager – Pale Lager

ABV - 5.2%

My personal notes: Quite a refreshing lager coming out of Barcelona, Spain! This brew poured up a crystal clear straw-colored body sporting a nice fizzy head with some retention and minimal lacing. When compared to other pale lagers that I’ve had the opportunity of sampling, this brew has them beat hands-down in the looks department! But it is a pale lager so scents and flavors are all pretty much the same; mellow hops and malts but this brew does NOT have that ‘corn’ taste like so many other pale lagers possess; and to me this makes for a far better taste. It’s a light-bodied brew and really good for those summer BBQs or after a long hard day of working in the yard or garden.

[AWMiller]

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Avery Ellie’s Brown Ale
Avery Brewing Company | Boulder, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Ale – Brown Ale

ABV - 5.5%

My personal notes: A very nice session brew in the brown ale line! This brew poured up a dark mahogany-colored body sporting an amazingly thick, cream head with good retention and lacing. Roasted malts and chocolate combine to make a medium-bodied, very smooth, creamy, malty, sweet brown ale with subtle hints of robust coffee with a finish that’s only lightly ‘hoppy’ and not bitter tones. Some slow-smoked beef ribs, beer bread, and a German-style (creamy) slaw would pair up very well with this fine brew!

[AWMiller]

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Seeradler Classik
Brauerei Max Leibinger GmbH | Ravensburg, Germany
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Fruit Beer

ABV - 2.6%

My personal notes: Well of all the fruit beers that I’ve tasted thus far, this one is by far the best! This brew poured up a slightly hazy, pale yellow colored body sporting a vibrant frothy head with fair retention and minimal lacing. Lemons, roasted malts and a touch of hops. The body is VERY light and easily drinkable (not much alcohol in that drink). Enjoy during the heat of summer at the BBQ or by the pool.

One of the coolest pull-tops I’ve ever seen on a bottle!
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[AWMiller]

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Saint Arnold Spring Bock
Saint Arnold Brewing Company | Houston, Texas USA
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Lager – Heller Bock

ABV - 6.4%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a light reddish-brown with a one-finger thick head that dissipated rather quickly and left minute lacing. Roasted malts, floral hops, light chocolaty-spicy notes up front with a bright hoppy finish. Medium bodied that finishes clean with no bitter aftertaste. A great brew to enjoy in the spring as well as throughout the year. Would make for a great pairing with a squirrel gumbo or rabbit stew!

[AWMiller]

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Left Hand 400 Pound Monkey
Left Hand Brewing Company | Longmont, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: English-style India Pale Ale (IPA)

ABV - 7%

My personal notes: Served ‘fridge’ cold, this brew poured up a hazy, light copper colored body with a one-finger thick foamy head with good retention and lacing. Very hoppy with some hints of caramel and spices both in scent and flavor. Medium bodied with a clean, slightly spicy finish with just the right amount of ‘bite’. This would pair well with some smoked or grilled oysters on the half-shell or some spicy grilled shrimp!

[AWMiller]

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Labatt Blue
Labatt Brewing Company Ltd. | London, Ontario CANADA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: This brew poured up the standard pale yellow colored body with a foamy, bubbly head that dissipated quickly and left negligible lacing. General aromas of corn and malts. Flavors of the same. Light body and well carbonated makes this an easy quaffer. Brews like this are good for pizza, meatball sandwiches, and hot wings.

[AWMiller]

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Victory Storm King Imperial Stout
Victory Brewing Company | Downingtown, Pennsylvania USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Russian-style Imperial Stout

ABV - 9.1%

My personal notes: These Imperial Stouts are just amazing! This brew poured up a rich dark black body with a one-finger mocha-colored head with great retention and lacing. Loads of hops, malts, chocolate tease your sense of smell while flavors of chocolate, toffee, and coffee tease your sense of taste. Medium-bodied while a nice hoppy bite at the finish with hints of espresso here and there. This is definitely a dessert all to itself!

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Texas Red
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Amber/Red Lager

ABV - 4.7%

My personal notes: These boys from Rahr & Sons surely don’t disappoint! This brew poured up a dark walnut-amber colored body sporting a two-finger bubbly head with great retention and lacing. Warm aromas of malt and hops so richly balanced that it entices one to stop and savor the brew with the nose before taking in that first tantalizing sip! A very malty tasting beer (which I really like cause I’m a malt-head!) with hints of the hops hidden here and there. This brew is slightly heavier than a light brew but slightly lighter than a medium-bodied brew. This brew is very, very, very easy to drink; so for a session brew it ranks up there of my highest picks! An excellent pairing with some beef/chicken fajitas or some slow-smoked wild game!

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Porter
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Porter

ABV - 5.6%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a near jet black body sporting a frothy one-finger head that dissipated quickly to a thin film leaving amazing lacing effects on the glass. Served just cooler than room temperature, scents and flavors of chocolate, coffee, toffee, roasted malts, and slight hints of hops and citrus. Medium-bodied with an ease of drinkability. Would pair well with grilled or smoked meats and several wild game dinners!

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Stout
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Stout

ABV - 5.8%

My personal notes: Now this is an amazing American stout! Served just cooler than room temperature this brew poured up a near jet black body sporting an enormous frothy head (as a result of a vigorous pour) with good retention and excellent lacing effects. Aromas and flavors of chocolate, burnt brown sugar, molasses, roasted malts, dark fruits (plums, etc.) balanced with just the right amount of hops for a clean subtle bite. Medium-bodied, robust, rich and creamy with no harsh aftertaste. Excellent when paired with grilled or smoked meats and wild game.

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Tumbler Autumn Brown Ale (2010)
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Brown Ale

ABV - 5.5%

IBU - 37

My personal notes: Definitely a quality brown ale to have in stock!! Served 'fridge-cold', this brew poured up a rich dark brown colored body with an off-white creamy, foamy head with great retention and lacing effects. Aromas and flavors of caramel, spices, nutmeg, roasted nuts, warm butter, toffee, and hearty roasted malts. Medium-bodied with a nice spicy bite and aftertaste. One of the best browns I have sampled thus far! Easy on the drinkability scale. Excellent when paired with grilled or smoked meat or wild game (duck, dove, rabbit, squirrel, venison).

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Glissade Golden Bock (2011)
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Maibock / Helles Bock

ABV - 6.4%

My personal notes: Served 'fridge-cold', this brew poured up a rich, dark golden colored body sporting a frothy pearl-white colored head with marginal retention but good lacing effects. Aromas and flavors of peppery spices, bready yeasts, lemon-grass, and a slight hint of hops and malts on the end. It has a light to medium body and easily drinkable. An excellent brew when paired with fish/shellfish dinners or pastas with a light white creamy sauce to it.

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Kellerweis Hefeweizen
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Hefeweizen

ABV - 4.8%

My personal notes: Another addition to the AW Beer Hall of Fame!!! Served 'fridge-cold', this brew poured up a hazy, cloudy golden amber colored body with a hearty pearl white colored foamy head with amazing retention and lacing effects. Aromas and flavors of wheat grains, lemon-grass, hops, apricots (maybe a tease of tangerine?) and something akin to wild honeycomb. Light to Medium in body, this brew is absolutely like velvet or silk on the tongue! Very creamy with a crisp, clean finish with just the right amount of 'bite' from the hops to make for an easy-to-drink hefe! Foods to pair with this brew would be grilled or smoked poultry, fish/shellfish, and wild game such as pheasant, quail, dove, etc.

[AWMiller]

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Oskar Blues Ten FIDY
Oskar Blues Grill & Brewery | Lyons, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 9.4%

My personal notes: Another grand addition to the AW Beer Hall of Fame!! This brew poured up a thick, rich, ooey-gooey (like motor oil!), black colored body sporting a one-finger thick mocha-colored head with minimal retention but amazing lacing effects! Rich aromas and flavors of coffee, dark fruits (raisins, plums), bitter chocolate. The body is thick and very creamy; chewy, just the way I like it! Drinkability is very easy but take your time with it and enjoy! This is an excellent brew all by itself. But if I were to pair it up with a meal it would have to be grilled or smoked choice cuts of beef or perhaps a choice wild game dinner compose of wild boar.

[AWMiller]

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Harpoon IPA
Harpoon Brewery | Boston, Massachusetts USA
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American IPA

ABV - 5.9%

My personal notes: Well I just might have found an IPA that I can enjoy! Served 'fridge-cold', this brew poured up a clear, copper-colored body with a sporty, frothy head with good retention and lacing effects. Aromas of hops and fruit (somewhat like grapefruit) and a light hint of malt on the backend. Flavors of melted caramel from the malts are well-blended with the hops and slight grapefruit taste. Medium-bodied and very easy to drink with a good bite in the aftertaste; but nothing overbearing. Pair this up with some wild game such as duck, pheasant, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, and venison for a great dinner & drink!

[AWMiller]

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Tecate
Cervecería Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma, S.A. de C.V. | Monterrey (Nuevo León), Mexico
Consumed @ Casa de Baldwin - Texas USA

Style: Mexican Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.55%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a pale yellow-colored body with a one-finger frothy head with minimal retention and lacing. General aromas of mild hops and malts. Flavors of the same. Light body and well carbonated makes this an easy quaffer. Brews like this are good for pizza, meatball sandwiches, and hot wings.

[AWMiller]

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Tommyknocker Jack Whacker Wheat Ale
Tommyknocker Brewery | Idaho Springs, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Wheat Ale

ABV - 5.4%

My personal notes: Another addition to the AW BHoF! This brew poured up a hazy orange-yellow colored body with a white frothy head that dissipated rather quickly and left minimal lacing. Aromas of lemon, malts, lemon-grass. Flavors of the same but also a hint of peach or apricot hiding in the background. The body is no heavy at all and very easy to drink with a nice, crisp, clean finish and no bitter aftertaste. This is an awesome brew for the BBQ! Will pair well with pheasant or quail, fish (such as trout, crappie, catfish, sand trout, sea trout, flounder, etc.) and grilled spicy shrimp!

[AWMiller]

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Victory Golden Monkey
Victory Brewing Company | Downingtown, Pennsylvania USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Ale | Tripel

ABV - 9.5%

My personal notes: Another addition to the AW BHoF!!! This brew poured up a hazy golden-colored body with a one-finger white foamy head with moderate retention and exceptional lacing. Aromas and flavors of hops, spices, pears. Heavy body making for a thick brew and a spicy bite on the finish. A grilled rack of pork (very spicy) would be my first pairing with this delicious ale!

[AWMiller]

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Almaza Pilsner
Brasserie Almaza S.A.L. | Beirut, Lebanon
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct German-style Pilsener

ABV - 4%

My personal notes: Not a bad brew coming out of Lebanon. This brew poured up a pale golden-colored body with a one-finger fizzy head with minimal retention and lacing effects. There's quite a bit of carbonation going on! Aromas and flavors of grass and apples and something akin to fresh-husked corn. Very light bodied and surprisingly smooth with a dry finish with a nice subtle bite and aftertaste. This would make for a good beer at the BBQ or fish fry.

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Summertime Wheat
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Hefeweizen

ABV - 5.5%

IBU - 19

My personal notes: Need a great brew for the BBQ or fish fry? This is the one!! This brew poured up a hazy, dark golden-colored body with a sporty two-fingered head with good retention and lacing effects. Aromas of lemon-grass, oranges, bananas. Flavors of the same and very well balanced. The body is medium-light and very easy to drink with no strong aftertaste; just a nice, clean finish. Pair this up with some smoked chicken or spicy grilled fish or shrimp!!

[AWMiller]

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Full Sail Limited Edition Lager (LTD 05)
Full Sail Brewery | Hood River, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Amber/Red Lager

ABV - 5.6%

IBU - 28

My personal notes: I can see that it is going to be easy to get hooked on these limited editions from Full Sail!! This brew poured up a dark crimson red-colored body with a light foamy head that quickly dissipated and left minimal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of caramel, roasted nuts, hops and malts. Flavors of the same; very well-balanced with a crisp, clean, smooth finish. Light bodied so this is a very easy-to-drink brew which makes for a great session beer. Pair it up with some smoked or grilled meats or poultry.

[AWMiller]

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Real Ale Firemans #4
Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Blonde Ale

ABV - 5.1%

IBU - 18

My personal notes: Probably THE brew to have with a good fish fry! This brew poured up a golden colored body with a frothy crystal-white head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Robust aromas of grapefruit and hops. Flavors of the same along with hints of some spices and clove and sweet malt. Medium-light body and loads of carbonation with a superbly clean finish and no harsh aftertastes. Definitely a quality brew when paired up with spicy fish tacos or a hearty flounder meal!

[AWMiller]

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Deschutes Twilight Summer Ale
Deschutes Brewery | Bend, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Blonde Ale

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: What an awesome seasonal summer blonde ale! This brew poured up an amber colored body with a two-finger pearl white bubbly head with moderate retention and lacing effects on the glass. Strong aromas of hops and citrus fruits and flavors are the same; strong hops and citrus notes throughout but enough malts to mellow it out on the palate. Medium-light body and a smooth, easy-drinking brew. This would pair well with a really spicy meal such as chicken fajitas, fish tacos, or spicy stuffed shrimp & dirty rice!

[AWMiller]

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Strongbow Cider
Bulmers Cider (Heineken UK) | Hereford, England
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Cider

ABV - 5.3%

My personal notes: Definitely a cider to have on-hand for those hot summer months! Perfect for those days spent doing yard work or out in the garden; a pleasant alternative to beer! This cider poured up an amber-colored body with a thin head with minimal retention and lacing effects. Aromas of ripe apples and a hint of lemon and grapefruit. Flavors of the same. This is a very light drink and is very easy on the palette; no harsh or bitter aftertaste. Drink it ice cold; heck drink it over ice!! Great for the BBQ and fish frys!!

[AWMiller]

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Oskar Blues Old Chub Scotch Ale
Oskar Blues Brewery | Lyons, Colorado USA

Style: Scotch Ale

ABV - 8%

My personal notes: Bring in the choir it is time to sing!!! Another addition to the AW BHoF!! This brew poured up a pitch black body with a tan-colored bubbly head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas and flavors of strong coffee, licorice, chocolate, malts, caramel, and hops. Medium-bodied, creamy, smooth, no harsh aftertaste; just one excellent brew! Enjoy this one with something off the smoker (meats, sausages, salmon) or all by itself as it makes for an excellent dessert beer!

[AWMiller]

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Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale
Samuel Smith Old Brewery (Tadcaster) | Tadcaster, United Kingdom (England)
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: English Brown Ale

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: Another fine brew from the Samuel Smith brewery! This brew poured up a rich, dark-brown colored body with a light, frothy off-white head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of roasted nuts, grains, toffee, nutmeg, caramel. This medium-bodied brew boasts flavors a roasted hazelnuts, caramel, toffee, and I swear chocolate-flavored saltwater taffy! Very creamy with a nice dry finish with no harsh aftertaste or any bitter bite. A hearty grilled steak would be a perfect pairing with this brew! For a wild game pairing go with dove, duck (roasted), goose (roasted), rabbit, squirrel, or venison (roasted, grilled, or fried).

[AWMiller]

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Maui CoCoNut PorTeR
Maui Brewing Co. | Lahaina, Hawaii USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Porter

ABV - 5.7%

IBU - 30

My personal notes: Now this is one excellent porter!! This brew poured up a jet black body sporting a foamy, creamy, tan-colored head with amazing retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of kona coffee and roasted coconut. Flavors of the same along with sweet malts; the flavors are so well balanced you won’t even know you’re drinking a brew! Medium-bodied, rich and creamy, smooth clean finish with only a slight bitter hit on the finish. Throw some meat on the grill or in the smoker to pair up well with this porter! Wild game considerations would include dove, roasted duck or goose, squirrel, venison, and wild boar.

[AWMiller]

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Deschutes Jubelale
Deschutes Brewery | Bend, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Winter Warmer

ABV - 6.7%

My personal notes: Winter Warmer is not a brew just for winter! This brew poured up a dark brown body with a sporty bubbly head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of caramel, hops, malts, chocolate, coffee, dark fruits (plums, prunes). Flavors of the same with a smooth clean finish full of chocolate and espresso. There are also hints of fig and something akin to candied apples intermingled with all those flavors. Medium-bodied and one that will definitely warm you up! Excellent when paired up with a hearty steak or perhaps some wild game (venison, wild boar, etc.)

[AWMiller]

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Quilmes
Cervecería y Maltería Quilmes / Grupo Bemberg | Buenos Aires, Argentina
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Pale Lager

ABV - 4.9%

My personal notes: While this brew is a macro-brew, it beats others in its class by a good margin when it comes to taste! This brew poured up a clear straw-colored body with a one-finger bubbly head with minimal retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of citrus (lemons) and hops. Flavors are very complex but very refreshing and clean. Light-bodied and easy to drink without that harsh skunky smell/aftertaste most adjunct lagers tend to possess. Makes for a great BBQ or fish fry brew!

[AWMiller]

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Samuel Smith’s Imperial Stout
Samuel Smith Old Brewery (Tadcaster) | Tadcaster, United Kingdom (England)
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 7%

My personal notes: Another fine stout from the boys in Tadcaster! This brew poured up a jet black body with a huge tan-colored foamy head with unending retention and exquisite lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of coffee, dark rum, chocolate, molasses, dark fruits (figs, raisins, or prunes). Flavors of the same. Medium- to Full-bodied, extremely smooth, very creamy and just the right amount of hops to make for a flavorful bite at the end. No harsh aftertastes from the hops or alcohol. Enjoy this brew all by itself; other foods will just distort the brews true flavors!

[AWMiller]

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Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome Ale
Samuel Smith Old Brewery (Tadcaster) | Tadcaster, United Kingdom (England)
Purchased @ Oliver's Fine Foods - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Winter Warmer

ABV - 6%

My personal notes: Another great winter warmer to be enjoyed anytime of the year! This brew poured up a rich dark amber colored body with a thin, foamy head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of toasted malts, hops, and biscuits. Flavors of toasted malts, melted caramel candy, oranges, spices, hops. Medium-bodied and a brew to drink slowly and enjoy no matter the time of year! Nice hoppy bite on the finish; and the finish is really dry. As with most warmers, enjoy this one all by itself to really get at all those flavors in the brew!

[AWMiller]

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Lagunitas Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale
Lagunitas Brewing Company | Petaluma, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Strong Ale

ABV - 9.87%

IBU - 74

My personal notes: This brew poured up a dark cherry (or dark mahogany) colored body with an off-white frothy head that quickly dissipated and left minimal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of hops (lots of hops; lagunitas likes it hoppy), grapefruit. Flavors of the same but include some malts which adds some sweetness to the brew to beat back some of that hops (did I mention this brews has some hops in it?!). Medium-bodied with a little bit of carbonation. Starts off hoppy, ends hoppy with a hoppy punch right in the middle; there is some sweetness from the malts mixed in but still the hops comes through in a strong manner.

[AWMiller]

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Coppers Best Extra Stout
Coopers Brewery Limited | Leabrook, Australia
Purchased @ the Flying Saucer - Addison, Texas USA

Style: Foreign|Export Stout

ABV - 6.3%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a rich, jet-black body with a one-finger thick tan-colored head with good retention and excellent lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of licorice, chocolate, espresso, and burnt sugars. Flavors of the same but also include vanilla and a little bit of hops for a nice clean bite on the finish. Medium-bodied, very creamy, and easy to drink with no harsh bitterness or aftertaste. Choice cuts of meat either grilled or smoked would be the prime pairing for this hearty Aussie brew! The trick for this brew is all in the pour; there are some sediments (not to worry as these are naturally occurring and won’t harm in any way) in the bottle and when poured right the brew comes out perfect! First, pour about 3/4 of the bottle into your glass. Swirl the remaining portion in the bottle a few times and then slowly pour off into your glass taking care to keep the sediment near the back and not flowing into your glass.

[AWMiller]

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Stone Highway 78 Scotch Ale
Stone Brewing Co. | Escondido, California USA
Purchased @ the Flying Saucer - Addison, Texas USA

Style: Scotch Ale | Wee Heavy

ABV - 8.8%

My personal notes: Now this is one collaboration brew that is just stellar! This brew poured up a dark amber body with a nice tan-colored foamy head with great retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of caramel, sugary candy, hops, toffee, scotch. Flavors of the same but this one has a delicious hint of smoke snuck in! Can also detect either figs or well-aged raisins. Medium-bodied and so very creamy and smooth. Definitely a sipping beer. Awesome all by itself or paired up with some spicy fish tacos or beef fajitas!

[AWMiller]

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Jester King Black Metal
Jester King Craft Brewery | Austin, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 10.4%

IBU - 60

My personal notes: Them boys were not jestering around when they made this amazing stout! Chilled it overnight in the fridge and then took it out to sit for an hour. This brew poured up a dark black body with a mocha-colored, thick, foamy head with unending retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of roasted nuts, hops, coffee, toffee, and alcohol. Flavors of the same. Medium-bodied and very rich and creamy. Smooth finish with just a tinge of hops for a nice subtle bite; no harsh aftertaste. Don’t ruin the flavors of this hearty brew! Enjoy it all by itself!

[AWMiller]

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Lagunitas Wilco Tango Foxtrot (WTF) Ale
Lagunitas Brewing Company | Petaluma, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Strong Ale

ABV - 7.83%

IBU - 64

My personal notes: Well of the Lagunitas line-up, this is the first brew that I’ve tried that has brought about some respects! This brew poured up a deep, dark brown body with one-finger thick head that dissipated quickly but left some nice lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of hops (I think I’ve mentioned on other reviews that Lagunitas is a hop-machine!), caramel, and brown sugar; but not sweet at all. Flavors of the same but surprisingly the hops used in this style are not nearly as bitter as compared to other brews in their line. Medium-bodied with a firm hoppy bite on the finish but nothing overbearing. Would go well with a porterhouse steak or perhaps a venison or wild boar meal.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters India Pale Ale
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: IPA

ABV - 6%

My personal notes: I have found an IPA that I truly enjoy and that’s why it’s going into my BHoF!! For those that know me, I’m a malt-head diligently working to gain an appreciation for IPAs. Squatters has just proved to be the ones that will definitely help me down the hops-path! This brew poured up an amber colored body with a foamy off-white colored head with outstanding retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of grapefruit, lemon-grass, pine, and hops. Flavors of the same but all so very well balanced that the character of this brew is so hard to describe adequately. There’s a slight sweet malty hit on the finish that brings the flavors of this brew full circle! No harsh aftertaste and a very clean and refreshing finish. Pair this brew up with spicy fish/seafood dishes or with some smoked salmon. For wild game this would pair well with duck, pheasant, quail, squirrel, and spicy venison.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Hop Rising Double IPA
Squatters Pub Brewery | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Double|Imperial IPA

ABV - 9%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a dark orange colored body with a hefty, frothy off-white head with generous retention and amazing lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of grapefruit (a hint of lemon perhaps?), floral hops, and spices. Flavors of the same. Medium-bodied and whoa buddy, hoppy! For me this was a mouth-puckering experience but a delicious one all the same. For hop-heads you will definitely enjoying this fine brew! Nice dry finish with no harsh aftertastes. Pair it up with some spicy fish/seafood meals or with some smoked salmon, roasted duck, or spicy venison sausage!

[AWMiller]

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Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Brewing Co. | Escondido, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Smoked Porter

ABV - 5.9%

My personal notes: A mighty fine smoked porter! This brew poured up a dark ruby-brown colored body with a nice, foamy mocha-colored head with good retention and amazing lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of heavy cream, coffee, sugars, chocolate and sweet malt. Flavors of the same but light hints of smoke and roasted malts mix in at the finish. Medium- to Full-bodied, thick and creamy; definitely not a brew for those that don’t like big thick brews; somewhat chewy and that’s the way I like them! Hit the smoker and pull off some slow-smoked ribs or some hearty venison steaks or wild boar burgers for an excellent pairing with this brew!

[AWMiller]

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New Belgium La Folie (Lips of Faith) 2011
New Belgium Brewing | Fort Collins, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Flanders Red Ale

ABV - 6%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a rich, dark amber colored body sporting a hearty foamy head that quickly dissipated but left a thin sheen on top to form out some amazing lacing effects on the glass. Aromas rich with cherries and sour mash, oak and clover. Flavors of sour cherries (really sour cherries), oak, spices, and clover. Did I mention this bugger was sour?! All flavors are well-balance but it’s the ‘sour’ that you better get prepared for! Medium-bodied with a spicy, sour finish; but very, very refreshing. Pair this sour brew with a thick, juicy grilled steak!

[AWMiller]

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Wasatch Winterfest
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Strong Ale

ABV - 7.1%

My personal notes: This brew poured up dark chestnut brown body with a thin foamy head with great retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of toasted malts, toffee, caramel, chocolate, and a hint of hops. Flavors of the same with all being well-balanced and enticing one to savor slowly. Medium-bodied with a nice dry finish with just a touch of hoppy bitterness on the end. Excellent for the wintertime by the roaring fire but definitely one that can be enjoyed anytime of the year! This is one brew that is meant to be enjoyed all by itself. Paired up with any foods and you will just distort the flavors and textures that this brew imparts.

[AWMiller]

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Wasatch The Devastator Double Bock
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Doppelbock

ABV - 8%

My personal notes: Oh what a silky smooth double bock; worthy of induction into the AW BHoF! This brew poured up a rich mahogany-colored body with a one-finger off-white bubbly head that dissipated quickly but left amazing lacing effects on the glass. Aromas caramel, toasted malts, warm biscuits (Hungry Jack style), cocoa powder (like Nestles Quik) and a light hint of espresso. Flavors of the same but oh so wonderfully balanced. Medium-bodied, lightly carbonated, and goes down real smooth with no bitter aftertastes. Easy to drink so keep an eye on how many you have had! Pair this brew up with a wild game dinner (rattlesnake, venison, wild boar, or a hearty squirrel stew).

[AWMiller]

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Pyramid Snow Cap Ale (2009)
Pyramid Breweries, Inc. | Seattle, Washington USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Winter Warmer

ABV - 7%

My personal notes: A very nice competitor in the winter warmer category! This brew poured up a dark chocolaty brown body with a thin off-white colored bubbly head that quickly dissipated and left marginal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of dark fruits (figs, raisins, plums), chocolate, espresso, caramel, roasted malts. Flavors of the same with just the right amount of hops to balance out with all that sweetness. Medium-bodied with low carbonation; easy to drink so watch how many you put down! Pair this sweet ale up with a hearty wild game dinner; spicy pheasant fajitas, stuffed pheasant, or roasted duck.

[AWMiller]

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Celis White
Michigan Brewing Company | Webberville, Michigan USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Witbier

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: Now this is one good witbier! This brew poured up a hazy, pale yellow body with a thick frothy bright white head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of lemons, orange, grains, and some yeast in the background. Flavors of citrusy fruits, spices (cloves and cinnamon), wheat grains, mixed nuts. Light-bodied, smooth and creamy, refreshing finish. Excellent when paired up with spicy fish/shellfish dinners.

[AWMiller]

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Green Flash Double Stout
Green Flash Brewing Co. | Vista, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Imperial/Double Stout

ABV - 8.8%

My personal notes: Definitely one of the best tasting stouts around! This brew poured up a near-black body with a one-finger bubbly head with amazing retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of rum, vanilla, chocolate, espresso, dark fruits (plums, figs), roasted malts. Flavors of the same but are so well-balanced. Medium- to Full-bodied, rich and thick, smooth and creamy. Refreshingly clean finish with no harsh aftertastes whatsoever. Personally I would enjoy this brew all by itself; but if paired up for a meal it would be smoked ribs, venison, or wild boar.

[AWMiller]

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Breckenridge Avalanche Amber
Breckenridge Brewery | Denver, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Amber/Red Ale

ABV - 5.41%

My personal notes: Definitely going to be a staple brew in my fridge! This brew poured up a dark copper-colored body with a two-finger thick foamy head that dissipated somewhat quickly and left nice lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of oranges, dark sugars, caramel. Flavors of the same but they are very, very intense and well-balanced. Light- to medium-bodied, lightly carbonated, smooth and easy to drink with a crisp, clean finish with just a slight bite. Excellent when paired up with a spicy, creamy fish/shellfish meal or creamy beef and noodle dinner.

[AWMiller]

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Anchor Steam Beer
Anchor Brewing Company | San Francisco, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: California Common / Steam Beer

ABV - 4.9%

My personal notes: Now this is one jim-dandy of a brew! This brew poured up a hazy copper-colored body with a wonderfully thick, off-white colored head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of malts, caramel, citrus fruits (lemons, and maybe some orange). Flavors of the same in a malty concoction that beckons you to take the next sip just as soon as you finish one. Medium-bodied, full-flavored with a dry finish and citrusy aftertaste. Grill up a nice spicy rack of pork to pair up with this amazing brew; or grill some fish or shrimp!

Interesting note: Early steam beers were brewed with lager yeasts, but fermented at warmer temperatures due to the lack of means to cool the tanks in California’s warm climate (back in the late 1800s). Cooling was brought about by the use of wide, shallow fermenting vessels. The resulting beer was very lively and, when the casks were tapped, they were said to “steam” with carbon dioxide. Source: Beers of the World; Kanning, David

[AWMiller]

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Pyramid Curve Ball Blonde Ale
Pyramid Breweries, Inc. | Seattle, Washington USA
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Kolsch

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a hazy golden-amber colored body with a nice frothy head that dissipated quickly down to a small sheen on top with minimal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of honey, lemon, and bread fresh out of the oven. Flavors of the same in this light-bodied brew with a hearty amount of carbonation. This is a great brew for those dog days of summer! Easy to drink and very flavorful; pair it up with your favorite meats at the BBQ or fish at the fish fry.

[AWMiller]

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Sierra Nevada Torpedo Extra IPA
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American IPA

ABV - 7.2%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a rich dark copper-colored body with a thick off-white foamy head with good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of floral hops, grapefruit, and spicy peppers. Flavors of the same packed with a bitter punch right in the kisser! Medium-bodied, very dry, hoppy, spicy, hoppy with a bone-dry, bitter finish. Oh, did I mention it was ‘hoppy’?! Smoked salmon, grilled flounder, stuffed shrimp, beer-butt chicken all come to mind as great pairings for this mouth-puckering brew!!

[AWMiller]

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Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat
Flying Dog Brewery | Frederick, Maryland USA
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Hefeweizen

ABV - 6.7%

IBU - 12

My personal notes: Well, another ‘hefe’ added to the AW BHoF!! This brew poured up a cloudy, golden-orange colored body gold beer with a thick foamy head. Careful on the pour as there are yeast floating about so pour in roughly 3/4 of the bottle then give the bottle a few swirls to break up that yeast and then pour the remainder of the bottle into your glass. Aromas of yeast, bananas, cloves and grains. Flavors of lemons, sweet malts, cloves, bananas, and caramel. Light-bodied with good carbonation with a crisp, smooth, clean finish and a long-lingering aftertaste of banana nut bread. Definitely one of the best from the Flying Dog brew line-up! Pairings include: spicy, spicy fish tacos or spicy grilled oysters!

[AWMiller]

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Anchor Porter
Anchor Brewing Company | San Francisco, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Porter

ABV - 5.6%

My personal notes: One of my favorite go-to porters! This brew poured up near black with a mocha-colored, very foamy head with amazing retention and lacing effects. Aromas of caramel, coffee, toffee, dark fruits (figs, raisins), and a touch of molasses. Flavors of the same in a medium-bodied brew. Extra creamy and smooth with just a touch of a hoppy bite to make for a clean, refreshing finish. You can’t go wrong with this porter! Fire up the grill or smoker and toss on your favorite meat cuts! For the outdoorsy type pair up this brew with some venison or wild boar!!

[AWMiller]

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Deschutes Black Butte Porter
Deschutes Brewery | Bend, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Porter

ABV - 5.2%

My personal notes: How can one go wrong when it comes to choosing an awesome porter? By not choosing this one!! This brew poured up a rich, dark brown colored body with a frothy one-finger head with good retention and excellent lacing effects on the glass. Sweet aromas filled with coffee, roasted malts, warm breads, and a hint of hops. Medium-bodied, silky smooth, and a rich malt-filled flavorful brew. There’s just enough hops to balance out with the malts for a nice, crisp finish full of flavors of brown sugar and grains. If you are going to be stocking up on porters, this needs to be part of your stash! Pair this brew up with your favorite grilled or smoked meats; for wild game this would be excellent with wild boar, venison, dove, ducks and squirrel.

[AWMiller]

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Guinnes Draught
Guinness Ltd. | Dublin, Ireland
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Irish Dry Stout

ABV - 4.1%

IBU - 40

My personal notes: I had high expectations for the Draught. I mean, being from Guinness I was ready for one stellar Irish-style Dry Stout. Unfortunately this one did not meet those expectations. Maybe the recipe was changed or something? Whatever the case may be I think I am going to stick with other brews in the Guinness lineup until this one gets some backbone put back into it. This brew poured up a near pitch black colored body with a creamy one-finger head with excellent retention and lacing effects (at least the visuals were enticing!). Aromas of hot caramel, sweet malts, coffee and chocolate; all somewhat on the smokey end of the spectrum. Medium-bodied (but rather watered-down tasting) with flavors of roasted malts, coffee with a very dry, slightly hoppy bite on the finish. I say that it is medium-bodied but in all honesty this one was just way to watery for my tastes and expectations. It is not a bad brew, but it is definitely not the best in this beer style. Best paired up with smoke meats (rich in fat) and grilled veggies.

[AWMiller]

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Lone Star Beer
Lone Star Brewing Company | San Antonio, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.72%

My personal notes: When it comes to macro-brews, this here’s my go-to! A Texas boy’s gotta love a Texas macro-brew!! Salute, y’all! Now being an adjunct (mass produced) brew, I don’t hold it up to those standards as I do for the much better craft brews! Nevertheless, this is one brew that I’ve always liked for some reason or another. This brew poured up a clear, straw-colored body with a one-finger bubbly head that quickly dissipated to a thin sheen and minimal lacing effects on the glass. Scents and flavors of basically any adjunct lager; grains, some malts, some hops. Light-bodied and smooth; some sweet malty flavors followed up with a clean, refreshing finish of a little hoppy bitterness. I’d definitely go for this one before any of the other mass-produced, mass-advertised brews (Miller, Coors, Busch, Keystone, etc.). A good beer for the BBQ or fish fry or some greasy, beefy nachos during the big game!

[AWMiller]

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Redhook ESB
Redhook Ale Brewery | Woodinville, Washington USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Extra Special/Strong Bitter

ABV - 5.8%

IBU - 28

My personal notes: This brew poured up a clear, amber colored body with a hearty head that was very creamy that soon dissipated to a thin sheen on top and left minimal lacing on the glass. This one smelt very lively dominant with hops which lent it a citrusy smell and hints of light caramel. Medium-bodied and very easy on the drinkability scale. Sweet malts are tasted first followed by a good hoppy bite (much like grapefruit). As the brew warmed the scents and flavors intensified more pleasingly. The finish is crisp and dry and powerful. Grilled pork or perhaps some grilled or roasted venison would make a great pairing with this brew.

[AWMiller]

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Rogue Dead Guy Ale
Rogue Ales | Newport, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Maibock / Helles Bock

ABV - 6.5%

My personal notes: Truly a brew for quality quaffing! This brew poured up an amber colored body with a bubbly thin head that dissipated rather quickly and left good lacing effects on the glass. Sweet aromas of malt, hops, and island fruits (almost like jack-fruit which is used to make Juicy Fruit gum). Medium-bodied, smooth, easy on the drinkability scale. Very malty so it has a good ‘thickness’ to it. The finish is so creamy and clean with no harsh aftertastes of any sort. Definitely a brew to pair up with grilled or smoked fish!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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San Miguel Pale Pilsen
San Miguel Corporation | Manila, Philippines
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Pilsener

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: Another great go-to of mine in the adjunct (mass produced) beers! A twist of lemon or lime and let’s fire up the grill or fryer! This brew poured up clear golden-colored body sporting a very bubbly head that quickly dissipated down to a thin sheen that left marginal lacing effects on the glass. Strong aromas of warm bread, fruits, and something akin to honeysuckles. Very light bodied and well-carbonated. Sweet malty flavors with an exceedingly refreshing finish with no harsh aftertastes. This brew should be a staple at your BBQ or fish fry. Seriously good brew!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Sol
Cervecería Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma, S.A. de C.V. | Monterrey (Nuevo León), Mexico
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.5%

My personal notes: This is a staple macro-brew for me whether i’m here in Texas or chillin’ down in Los Cabos! A squeeze of lemon or lime and time to drink! This brew poured up a crystal clear body with a thin foamy head that dissipated quickly and left marginal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of corn and grains. Strong flavors of corn and hops in the light-bodied, easy-drinking brew. The finish is very dry and full of grains. Paired perfectly with grilled fish but more so with grilled oysters topped with a spicy habanero pepper salsa!! Ay Caramba, gimme a Sol!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/sanmigueldark.jpg
San Miguel Dark Lager
San Miguel Corporation | Manila, Philippines
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Euro Dark Lager

ABV - 5%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a dark, chocolaty brown body with a thick, foamy mocha-colored head with awesome retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas and flavors full of hops, caramel, malts, and smoke from those old-timey smokehouses up in the Ozark Mountains. Light- to Medium-bodied, smooth, with a very clean finish that’s not too hoppy with a touch of vanilla lingering long afterwards. Definitely a brew to pair up with smoked meats or wild game! I had it with some venison steaks and veggies!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Erdinger Weissbier (Hefe-Weizen)
Erdinger Weissbräu | Erding, Germany
Purchased @ Kegs & Corks (http://www.kegsandcorks.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Hefeweizen

ABV - 5.6%

My personal notes: This brew poured up a murky, orange-colored body with a foamy off-white head with fairly good retention and lacing effects on the glass. Careful on the pour of these hefeweizens a yeast is present in the bottle. Pour 3/4 of the bottle and then gently swirl the bottle around a few times and then pour the rest into the glass; this helps break up the yeast components and enhance the look of the brew. Aromas of wheat, cloves, warm banana nut bread (or is it homemade banana pudding?). Medium-bodied, creamy smooth, with a nice spicy (clove-like) finish with just a bite from the hops to blend well with all that sweetness. I would consider this a table-brew much like what you would find in a table wine at a restaurant. Not a bad brew but definitely not in the line a great brews in the hefeweizen style. Pairs well with grilled fish or shrimp.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Ommegang Abbey Ale
Brewery Ommegang | Cooperstown, New York USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Dubbel

ABV - 8.5%

My personal notes: Dubbels are just an amazing ale and this brew doesn’t fall short of greatness! This brew poured up a deep, dark copper-colored body topped off with one hearty, bubbly (tiny bubbles) head with a retention and lacing effects like nothing I have ever experienced! I was still licking up foam when the liquid was completely gone! Aromas of sweet roasted malts, caramel, toffee, honeycomb, dark fruits (grapes, figs), and cloves along with other spices. The flavors are so complex that you must truly enjoy this brew on your own to gain a true understanding of what I try to describe. Medium-bodied, smooth and a finish that is dry and spicy. Truly worthy of induction into my all-time favorites list! Paired up with a hearty roast beef dinner or perhaps a succulent Shepherd’s Pie, this ale will certainly not disappoint!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Maui Brewing Big Swell IPA
Maui Brewing Co. | Lahaina, Hawaii USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: IPA

ABV - 6.2%

IBU - 50+

My personal notes: Egads that’s one hoppy brew!!! That’s one big swell of hops! Wooooooooo doggie!!! I must confess, being a malt-head I tell it like I taste it but I do work on developing a liking for hoppy brews. But if you like hops, then this brew is for you!! This brew poured up a clear orange-colored body that sported one of the most dazzling heads of foam I’ve ever poured up or seen poured! The swell in that head looked like the swells we see at Hale’iwa (North Shore on Oahu)! The retention was very good and the lacing effects were fantastic! When you open the can your sense of smell is smacked with a huge wave of grapefruit (from the hops) along with some faint hints of malts and caramel. That’s a smack filled with ‘aloha’ mind you!! Flavors are full of grapefruit with some orange mixed in here and there. Thankfully there is enough malts mixed in that kept my face from puckering entirely up from all that hops! Hey, they did warn on the bottom of the front of the can that this brew was hoppy! This is a medium-bodied brew that has a ‘slickery’ feel to it. The finish is … hoppy! I would definitely pair this brew up with a deep fried crab topped with a habanero-mango salsa!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the 'bier vorgeschmack' and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Pecker Wrecker
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Pilsner

ABV - 7%

This brew is just absolutely amazing! It poured up a beautiful, rich, dark amber-colored body that formed up a huge frothy head with amazing retention and lacing effects which lasted until the beer is gone! Aromas of caramel, sweet malts, citrus fruits (orange and maybe a bit of lemon), hops, and spices. There’s a nice hoppy hit up front followed by sweet malt for a mellowed, somewhat dry finish. Paired this tasty brew with smoked brats & creamed golden hominy casserole for an amazing dinner!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Saint Arnold Divine Reserve #11
Saint Arnold Brewing Company | Houston, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial IPA

ABV - 8.9%

IBU - 76

Another fine brew from the folks at Saint Arnold Brewing! This brew poured up a deep, dark amber colored body sporting a nice frothy head with moderate retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of citrusy hops, caramel, sweet malts, and warm biscuits. Medium-bodied and full of well-balanced flavor. Nice, subtle hoppy hit up front followed up with the sweet malts and caramel on the finish. Very refreshing indeed! A great brew for the BBQ or fish fry! Pair it up with some grilled/smoked meats or some grilled/smoked salmon.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Boulevard Pilsner
Boulevard Brewing Co. | Kansas City, Missouri USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: German-style Pilsner

ABV - 4.8%

IBU - 16

A good standard fare in this pilsner line, this brew poured up a crystal clear light amber colored body with a thin head that had minimal retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas are very, very faint: grains, hops, malts, and a light lemony scent. Light-bodied and very easy on the drinkability level with a crisp, clean finish that has no bitter or harsh aftertaste. Great to pair up with a poultry meal or perhaps a grilled fish/seafood dinner.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Butte Creek Organic Pilsner
Butte Creek Brewing Company | Chico, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: German-style Pilsner

ABV - 4.1%

This brew poured up a semi-cloudy, light golden colored body with a pearly white thin foamy head with minimal retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of grains, light hops, and something akin to sourdough bread. Light- to Medium-bodied, the sweet malts are savored first with a nice bite from the hops on the finish to make for a crisp, dry ending. The finish is slightly bitter but nothing overbearing. Being my first ‘organic’ brew to try, I’d pair this one up with some fried chicken (home-style, not that fast food stuff) or some blackened fish.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Left Hand Stranger APA
Left Hand Brewing Company | Longmont, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Ale (APA)

ABV - 5%

IBU - 36

Definitely one of the purtiest brews I’ve seen in a while! This brew poured up a crystal clear, topaz colored body with a hefty head with amazing retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas are just abundant an amazing: citrus fruit, hops, and a slight hint of sweet malts. Quite full of hops but nothing too harsh or overbearing (at least for this malt-head!). Good spice notes with grapefruit and some lemon flavors mixed in. Medium-bodied with a very easy drinkability level with a nice, dry finish that has just a slight kick from the hops. Definitely a good brew to pair up with a juicy rotisserie chicken, creamed spinach, corn-on-the-cob, and fresh baked bread!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/steinlagerpure.jpg
Steinlager Pure
New Zealand Breweries Limited | Aotearoa, New Zealand
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Euro Pale Lager

ABV - 5%

This being my first brew from New Zealand, I’m quite amazed at this hearty brew in such a teeny-tiny can! The brew poured up a clear, straw-colored body with a light foamy head which dissipated slowly but with minimal lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of warm biscuits, sweet malts, grains, light hops, lemons … very well-balanced. Light-bodied, easy to drink, with a smooth, clean, refreshing finish with only a slight bitter aftertaste. An excellent brew to pair up with some spicy, Cajun-style shrimp/crawfish or a hearty Cajun gumbo!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rheingold Beer
Rheingold Brewing Co. | Wilton, Connecticut USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Lager

ABV - 5%

Well, I hate to give out a negative review but this brew just didn’t hold up to any sort of expectation of mine. This brew poured up a clear, straw-colored body the head was barely visible (no lacing effects at all) and dissipated so quickly that I barely had time to get it in the photo! Aromas are barely detectable but there’s just a tad bit of hops and malts; sadly it was rather bland smelling. Light-bodied and so easy to drink you wouldn’t know you were drinking a beer. Flavors are very bland so whatever you pair this up with that’s all you are going to be tasting. Sadly I won’t recommend this brew to anyone.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/mauimanawheat.jpg
Maui Brewing Mana Wheat
Maui Brewing Co. | Lahaina, Hawaii (Maui) USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Wheat Ale

ABV - 5.5%

Alooooooooooooooooha! Now this is a lot of aloha from the Maui Brewing ohana!! A wheat brew with pineapple! Now THAT’s refreshing!!! It may be hard to tell from that opener but I REALLY love this brew! It poured up a cloudy, light-amber in color with a massive head with moderate retention and minimal lacing. Aromas of wheat and pineapple (but more like grilled pineapple), and lemons. Flavors of the same but oh so smooth and well-balanced. Medium-bodied, smooth and easy to drink. Truly smooth liquid bliss! It has a light hoppy bite on the end to make for a clean, refreshing finish. Would definitely pair this up with some spicy grilled shrimp or perhaps a deep-fried whole crab topped with a pineapple/jalapeno chutney on top! I’m heading off to Maui and visiting these fine folks!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rogue Shakespeare Oatmeal Stout
Rogue Ales | Newport, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Oatmeal Stout

ABV - 6%

IBU - 69

This brew poured up a near jet-black colored body with a frothy tan-colored head with moderate retention and lacing effects on the glass. Aromas of burnt sugars, hot caramel, and loads of sweet roasted malts. This is a very smooth and creamy medium-bodied brew with a slightly hoppy finish with lingering coffee notes. There are light spice notes throughout with all flavors being very well balanced. Definitely a brew to be paired up with smoked meats or wild game!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Wasatch Polygamy Porter
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Porter

ABV - 4%

I am really starting to take a strong liking to these Wasatch brews! This brew poured up a near pitch black-colored body with a one-finger head that had minimal retention and lacing. Aromas of sweet roasted malts, burnt sugars, coffee, chocolate. Medium-bodied with a sweet finish, no bitterness at all in this fine brew. Pair this up with some smoked sausages or grilled steaks; or serve it up as a dessert brew.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Southern Star Buried Hatchet Stout
Southern Star Brewing Co. | Conroe, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 8.25%

My gosh! This brew is so good I want to cut the can open and lick it clean! It poured up a near pitch black-colored body with ruby hues; a massive foamy head with moderate retention & awesome lacing. The head reduces down to a thin foamy topping and hangs around for a good long while. Aromas of dark chocolates and dark fruits, coffee, and hot fudge. Medium-bodied and silky smooth with a crisp, clean finish that has just a subtle ‘bite’. Very easy to drink so watch that ABV count! An excellent brew to pair up with wild game, smoked meats or grilled meats.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[EEBowHunter]

A very nice collection indeed!!! I recognize a bunch of those but there are a lot more that I have yet to try. In the spirit of good brews...

Jon Boy’s Olde English Ale (May 2011)

This is a revisit of my Harpoon style Olde English Ale with some tweaks. Specifically increased the hop schedule and added some more LME to bump up the gravity.

Original Gravity: 1.086
Final Gravity 1.021
Color: 22 SRM
Bitterness: 32.7 IBU
Alcohol: 8.7% ABV

Liquid Malt Recipe
7 oz Biscuit Malt
7 oz Crystal 40 Malt
6 oz Aromatic Malt
2 oz Chocolate Malt
2 oz Black Malt
12 lbs Light Liquid Malt Extract

Hopping Schedule
2 oz Challenger (Bittering)
1 oz Fuggles (20 min)
1 oz UK Kent Goldings (10 min)

White Labs # WLP007 (Dry English Ale)

Directions for Extract recipe
1. Fill your brewpot with 2 gallons of water, and heat to 170°F.
2. Steep specialty grains (in nylon or cheesecloth bag) for 30 minutes.
3. Remove grain bag and add Liquid Malt Extract. Stir until dissolved.
4. Bring to a slow boil.
5. Once boil has started add Bittering hops.
6. After 45 minutes of boiling, add Flavoring hops.
7. After 55 minutes, add Aroma hops.
8. After 60 minutes, remove your brewpot from the stove and cool the wört.
9. Sanitize your fermenting bucket, and any other that equipment that will contact the wört from this point on.
10. Once the wört has been cooled to room temperature (75-70°) pitch the yeast.
11. Once fermentation is complete (5-10 days) and the desired beer clarity has been achieved through racking, add the priming sugar and bottle.

[AWMiller]

very nice indeed! gotta love a good home-brew! next time I'm in SA I'll swing by with my growlers!!!

[AWMiller]

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Woodchuck Pear Cider
Green Mountain Cidery (HP Bulmer) | Middlebury, Vermont USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Ciders/Perrys – Common Perry

ABV - 4%

This cider pours up like champagne made from pears. Very bubbly throughout with loads of sweet pear aromas. Taste is very sweet with a dry, tart finish. Very refreshing on those hot summer days and would be excellent for the BBQ or fish fry! Pair it up with some grilled chicken or grilled fish!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Tiger Beer
Asia Pacific Breweries Ltd. | Alexandra Point, Singapore
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Singapore Adjunct Pale Lager

ABV - 5%

Now this brew really took me by surprise! It poured up a clear amber-colored body with a nice frothy head that dissipated quickly to thin sheen with minimal lacing. Aromas were of the usual malts/hops (hey, it’s an adjunct!) but nothing overbearing or skunky. It has a sweet malty taste with a nice bite of hops at the end. A crisp, clean finish with no harsh aftertastes. Light bodied and extra smooth on the quaff! I would pick this ANY time over the US mass producers (e.g. Miller, Coors, etc.). Pair this brew up with spicy nachos or spicy asian fish/seafood meal.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA
Bear Republic Brewing Co. | Healdsburg, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American IPA

ABV - 7%

IBU - 75

These IPAs are starting to appeal to me! This brew poured up a cloudy/hazy golden-orange body with a frothy head possessing excellent retention and lacing. Loads of aromas of citrusy hops with just a tiny hint of roasted malts. It has a good sharp bite all the way through followed up with just enough sweet malts to smooth it out for a nice, crisp, clean finish with no harsh aftertaste; almost like a mixture of flavors of cotton candy and caramel lingering on the finish. As it warms the hops and malts blend so much more ‘flavorfully’. Pair it up with some beer-butt chicken (yeah and use some of this beer for that dish!) or salmon cooked on cedar planks on the grill!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Stormcloud IPA
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American IPA

ABV - 6%

IBU - 64

Noah makes the call… Tony makes the pitch… and Fritz knocks it out of the park right into the Stormcloud! This is THE IPA that I would recommend those not into all that hops to try in order to develop an appreciation for hoppy brews!! All it took was a Texas IPA to get my head wrapped around all this hoppy-deliciousness! I’ve now had the pleasure of trying this brew both from the bottle and from the tap right at the brewery on one of their tours! A topaz colored body with a good frothy head that dissipates somewhat quickly to a thin sheen and good lacing effects. Lots of citrusy hops as well as some sweet malts on the nose. Medium-bodied and extremely smooth brew with an awesomely clean finish that’s not too hoppy nor too sweet! Definitely one of the best IPAs this malt-head has tasted!! Pairs well with pheasant, quail, smoked salmon/trout, or some spicy venison.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Wasatch White Label
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Witbier

ABV - 6%

What an amazing witbier! Light amber in color and from an aggressive pour a good foamy head that dissipated quickly to a thin sheen with minimal lacing. Aromas of grains and hearty spices. Flavors of orange zest, lemon zest and clove. Light-bodied and very smooth with a nice dry, clean finish with no harsh aftertastes. Pair it up with spicy Korean pork bbq or with a spicy fish/shrimp dinner or fresh-caught trout prepared right on the banks!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/rahrsblonde.jpg
Rahr & Sons Rahr’s Blonde
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Munich Helles Lager

ABV - 4.6%

IBU - 22

Daggum them boys thar at Rahrs know how to make some good brews! I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying this fine brew from the bottle and right from the tap there at the brewery! Golden amber in color with a hearty foamy head that dissipated quickly to a thin sheen and somewhat good lacing. Aromas of sweet malts, orange zest, maybe a little bit of lemon. Light- to somewhat medium-bodied, with a silkly smooth texture. Good sweet malts and just the right amount of hearty bite from the hops to make for a well-balanced white beer! Seems like a touch of lemon-grass in there too. Long-lingering malty-sweet finish but nothing overbearing. Just the right amount of carbonation in there too. The finish is so crisp and clean! Pair this up with some smoked gouda cheese or perhaps some smoked fish or grilled shrimp Cajun-style! Heck I’m thinking of some hearty new england clam-chowder with this Texas brew!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Woodchuck Dark & Dry 802 Draft Cider
Green Mountain Cidery (HP Bulmer) | Middlebury, Vermont USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Ciders/Perrys – Common Cider

ABV - 5%

Quite a refreshing cider! Poured up a light caramel-colored body with loads of carbonation (from all that champagne blended in) and a thin fizzy head. Aromas of sugars, apples, and a light hint of clove way in the back. Light-bodied and easily quaff-able! Enjoy it on a hot day at the BBQ or fish fry! This is a great alternative to those that don’t want to load up on beer but still want something with a tasty little kick!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/wasatchsummerbrau.jpg
Wasatch Summerbrau Lager
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased - received as a gift.

Style: Czech Pilsener

ABV - 5.6%

What are these folks at Wasatch doing?! They are turning out solid brews, that’s what!! This brew poured up a clear golden colored body with a frothy pearl-white colored head with good retention and slowly dissipating down to a thin sheen and light lacing and a good amount of carbonation. Aromas of sweet malts, spices, hops and lemongrass. Light-bodied with a very clean, refreshing finish with no harsh aftertastes. Easily one of the best pilz to have by the grill or by the fryer! Pair this brew up with some spicy chicken or spicy fish entrees or a spicy Cajun-style meal!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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St. Bernardus Abt 12
Brouwerij St. Bernardus NV | Watou, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Abbey Ale – Quadrupel

ABV - 10%

Definitely one of the most extravagant tasting brews I have ever tasted. Poured up a dark mahogany-brown colored body with a one-finger head that was extremely creamy with amazing retention and lacing. Aromas of rich sweet malts, cloves, and dark fruits. The flavors are so complex in the fine brew; cloves and brown sugar along with spicy notes throughout. Full-bodied, creamy smooth, with a very warming and sweet finish. DO NOT RUSH THROUGH THIS BREW! Take your time and slowly savor every drop! Best if paired up with some smoked meats and wild game (venison, boar, etc.) or just all by itself!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Provo Girl Pilsner
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased - Received as a gift

Style: German Pilsener

ABV - 4%

Another good pilsner from the folks at Squatters! This brew poured up a crystal clear, light golden colored body with a one-finger thick foamy head with good retention and moderate lacing effects on the glass. Sweet aromas of malts and a slight hint of citrusy hops. Flavors of sweet malts dominate with just the right tough of a hoppy bite on the finish. Light-bodied with a clean finish with no harsh aftertastes. Quite an easy drinker so this would be a great compliment to your BBQ and/or fish fry. Would pair well with pheasant, quail, salmon or fresh-caught trout.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Big Cottonwood
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased - Received as a gift

Style: American Amber/Red Ale

ABV - 6.4%

Pours up a rich crystal clear dark amber colored body with a hefty frothy tan-colored head with good retention and lacing effects. Warm aromas of grains, malts, toffee, vanilla, and melted caramel with a subtle hint of hops. The flavors are nicely complex with sweet malts, just a touch of a hoppy bite, with a noticeable smoothness like warm caramel. Medium-bodied, ease of drinkability, well-balanced, and a sweet, clean finish.

Pairing Recommendations: duck, goose, patridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, grilled meats

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters 529
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased - received as a gift!

Style: Flanders Oud Bruin (Sour/Wild Ale)

ABV - 7.15%

Sour is as sour does! Woooo doggie that is one sour brew, but taste is in the mouth of the beholder as they always say! This brew poured up a murky reddish-brown colored body that sported a one-finger thick head that quickly dissipated to a thin sheen and left excellent lacing on the glass. Definitely one of the most aromatic brews! Sweet malts, dark fruits, lots of sour cherry going on! Flavors are very complex yet well-balanced; intense sour cherry, melted caramel, sweet malts, and a nice hit of spicy hops on the backend. Medium- to Full-bodied with an intensely, insanely sour hit all the way through and finished off with a long-lasting, mouth-puckering hit of brew-love that’s dry on the finish and aftertaste. I found myself enjoying this brew as it slowly warmed as the flavors and aromas just intensified!

Pairing Recommendations: An excellent pairing with some grilled rib-eye steaks or some slow-smoked meats/sausages! Heck get ya a double-meat buffalo burger and some taters and have yourself a good ol’ meal!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Full Suspension Pale Ale
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: American Pale Ale

ABV - 4%

This brew poured up a cloudy amber colored body with a thin, fizzy off-white head that dissipated somewhat slowly and left incredible lacing on the glass. Aromas of floral hops, caramel, sweet malts and citrus (like orange peels). Flavors full of the citrus notes and sweet malts with a nice hoppy bite on the finish. Medium-bodied, moderate carbonation, very smooth and creamy with a finish that is very clean and tart.

Pairing Recommendations: Excellent when paired up with some hot-n-spicy buffalo chicken tacos and some extra creamy bleu cheese dressing!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Lagunitas Cappuccino Stout
Lagunitas Brewing Company | Petaluma, California USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 8.8%

IBU - 29

Definitely a fine quality brew from the Lagunitas line! This brew poured up a near pitch black colored body sporting a hearty foamy tan-colored head with amazing retention and lacing effects. Hearty aromas of coffee, caramel, and toffee; flavors of the same but so intense and so well-balanced. Medium- to Full-bodied so it’s a good thick brew with a good strong coffee taste throughout with a clean, warming finish full of sweet malts and a subtle hint of hops for a ultra-slight bitter hit and a long lingering aftertaste just as though you finished off your favorite cappuccino.

Pairing Recommendations: Pair this brew up with a juicy steak right off the grill or with your favorite smoked or grilled meats.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Captain Bastard’s Oatmeal Stout
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: Oatmeal Stout

ABV - 4%

Now this is one exceptional stout!! It poured up a jet-black colored body with a hearty, foamy mocha-colored head with amazing retention and lacing effects. Aromas of roasted/sweet malts, coffee, and a hint of hops. Flavors of the same but oh so intense and well-balanced! Medium-bodied, thick and creamy, with a warming finish full of robust coffee and dark chocolate flavors.

Pairing Recommendations: Would make for an awesome compliment to some decadent burgers or venison burgers!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Hell’s Keep
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: Belgian Strong Ale

ABV - 7.75%

Truly one of the finest offerings one can partake of from Squatters!! This brew poured up a cloudy light-golden colored body with a meringue-like head with awesome retention and lacing effects. Aromas full of pear, cloves, banana, and peppery spices. Flavors are intense and very well-balanced with the addition of lemon-grass and a fruity hint somewhat like starfruit. Medium-bodied, good carbonation, very creamy and a finish that is dry, tart and tangy.

Pairing Recommendations: A perfect companion with a slow-grilled rib-eye steak and grilled veggies and another one of these beers for dessert!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Real Ale Devil’s Backbone
Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Tripel

ABV - 8.1%

IBU - 36

This brew from Real Ale completely exceeded all of my expectations of this Tripel! It poured up a hazy dark golden colored body with a foamy head that possessed great retention and lacing effects. Aromas of yeast, peppers, spices, bananas. Flavors of the same and also include pears and sugars. Medium-bodied, good carbonation, very easy to drink with no harsh aftertastes and a smooth, clean finish with just the right amount of hoppy bite. This is definitely one of the finest American Tripels that I have even had the pleasure of tasting!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, pork

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Spaten Munchen Dunkel
Spaten-Franziskaner-Brau | Munchen, Germany
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Munich Dunkel Lager

ABV - 5.5%

This was a fairly good dunkel. It poured up a dark root beer colored body with a hearty two-finger off-white colored head that had fair retention and some lacing effects. Aromas of caramel, toffee, warm bread. Flavors of the same but also include raisins or figs. Medium-bodied with a sweet flavored finish (hardly any detection of hops) that lingers for quite some time.

Pairing Recommendations: grilled/smoked meats or various wild game

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Oskar Blues Gubna Imperial IPA
Oskar Blues Grill & Brewery | Lyons, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial IPA

ABV - 10%

If I’m going to get hooked on IPAs then it is going to be this one! This brew pours up a rich burnt orange colored body with a thick foamy head with good retention and excellent lacing. Hearty aromas of sweet malts, lemon, orange and sugar. Flavors are very complex and rich – grapefruit, orange, lemon, sweet malts, and hints of various tropical fruits. Medium-bodied, good carbonation, very smooth with a nice hoppy bite throughout. The finish is very clean and refreshing with a lingering hit of bitter hops and sweet malts.

Pairing Recommendations: wild game, grilled/smoked meats, fish/shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Oktoberfest
Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: Marzen/Oktoberfest

ABV - 5.5%

What an awesome Texas-brewed Oktoberfest!! This brew poured up a dark amber colored body with a one-finger thick tan colored head with fair retention and minimal lacing effects. Aromas and flavors of sweet malts and warm bread along with subtle hints of hops throughout. Although a somewhat dark beer it is very light on the palate with a smooth, clean finish filled with lingering aftertastes of warm sweet bread.

Pairing Recommendations: Smoked brats or wurst

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Kirin Ichiban
Anheuser-Brusch (funny, an American company brewing/distributing a foreign beer)
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.9%

Probably one of the worst brews I have tasted thus far (next to Wacko and Rheingold)! Seriously I could not finish the brew. It did possess the standards of the “Add-Junk” (a.k.a. adjunct) lagers; pale golden yellow, moderate fizzy head, skunky odor (from the lesser quality grains and hops that are used), little to no real taste, and a bland but bitter aftertaste. This is one brew that is best left in the cooler for some other poor soul to purchase and consume.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Chimay Rouge (Red) Premiere
Bieres de Chimay (Abbaye Notre Dame de Scourmont) | Baileux (Chimay), Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Dubbel

ABV - 7%

This brew poured up a murky mahogany colored body with an enormous frothy head with amazing retention and lacing effects. Aromas of sweet malts, spices, and peppers. Flavors of the same along with cloves, dark fruits (dates and plums), and warm hints of chocolate. Medium-bodied with a dry finish and lingering aftertastes of sweet malts and spices. This brew improves as it warms after pouring.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, rattlesnake

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Anchor Liberty Ale
Anchor Brewing Company | San Francisco, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Ale (APA)

ABV - 5.9%

A mainstay to be enjoyed every Independence Day! This brew poured up a luscious golden amber colored body with a foamy head with good retention and lacing effects. Aromas of floral hops, some grains and fruits (oranges, lemons). Flavors of hops, apricots (or maybe nectarines), a slight hint of honey (or burnt sugar). Light- to Medium-bodied, very smooth with a dry finish.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, duck/goose, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Real Ale Full Moon Pale Rye Ale
Real Ale Brewing Company | Blanco, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Rye Beer

ABV - 5.6%

This brew poured up a dark amber colored body with a one-finger thick off-white colored head with good retention and lacing. Aromas of warm biscuits, rye, and peppery spices. Flavors of the same. Medium-bodied, good carbonation, very smooth with a nice hit of hops and peppery spices on the finish.

Pairing Recommendations: pork or wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Brewing Co. | Escondido, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial IPA

ABV - 7.7%

This brew poured up a rich dark amber colored body with an enormous frothy, creamy head with amazing retention and lacing. Pleasant aromas of citrusy hops with some old peppery spices intermingled, roasted malts. Flavors are of intense hops. Hops, hops, hops and some more hops. Ironically it was not as hoppy as what I was building myself for it to have! Other flavors include a nice mellowing from the sweet malts along with orange zest and some spices. Medium-bodied, lightly carbonated and the finish is very mouth-puckeringly clean.

Pairing Recommendations: Definitely a good brew to have with some spicy fish tacos! Also would pair well with beef, buffalo, fowl (ducks, geese, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse), poultry, fish, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison, rabbit.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Beerista (Small Batch Series)
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: American Stout

ABV - 6.3%

IBU – 30

What an amazing stout! This brew poured up a near black colored body with a thin, bubbly head that dissipated quickly and left marginal lacing on the glass. Awesome aromas of powdered cocoa, robust coffee, dark chocolates, and sweet roasted malts. The flavors are of the same and absolutely intense in this robust brew; very well-blended. Near medium-bodied, creamy, good carbonation, and very easy on the drinkability scale. Would pair up very nicely with a juicy rib-eye steak or perhaps some succulent beef fajitas!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Fifth Element
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: American Wild Ale

ABV - 6.75%

I have been venturing out into the sour/wild ale arena and can say that once you’ve acquired the taste for these mouth-puckering ales you’ll take to liking them quite a bit! This brew poured up a murky orange colored body with a bright white frothy head with good retention and marginal lacing. Aromas of citrus, yeast, floral hops, cooking spices, and a notable sour scent. Flavors are absolutely complex, each vying for its 15 minutes of fame; orange, lemon, grapefruit, and spices (cloves, etc.). Light-bodied, loads of carbonation, very tart with a dry finish. Would pair up nicely with some smoked oyster fritters topped with a jalapeno/orange marmalade glaze!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, fish, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Squatters Outer Darkness
Utah Brewers Cooperative | Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Not purchased; received as a gift!

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 10.5%

Oh my … this brew is hitting right near the top of my all-time favorites!!! Poured up a hearty black colored body with an enormous bubbly mocha-colored head with unending retention and lacing. Decadent aromas of spices, dark chocolate, light hints of roasted coffee beans, caramel, toffee, and cloves. After pouring I took a quick sip and then let it sit for an hour to warm so that the flavors and aromas would intensify! Oh how long that wait was because that first sip was oh-so-blissful! The flavors are so intensely filled with the dark chocolates, toffee, hearty coffee; each so rich that one does not want to swallow that delicious liquid so quickly! Full-bodied, thick-n-rich, with a warming finish that is dry and full of lingering chocolaty sweetness. This would pair well with many meals but I’d much rather save this for dessert on its own!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock
Privatbrauerei Franz Inselkammer KG / Brauerei Aying | Aying, Germany
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Doppelbock

ABV - 6.7%

Why oh why did I wait so long to try this stellar brew?! This brew poured up a hefty dark mahogany-colored body with a thick one-fingered tan colored with retention lasting long after the beer was gone and amazing lacing effects. Aromas of warm dark bread, caramel, molasses, malts and hops, and a very slight hint of alcohol. Of the doppelbocks, I am sure that this one reigns supreme! Medium-bodied, light carbonation, very thick and creamy with a well-balanced hit of hops on the finish that is dry but not too dry.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, rattlesnake, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Anchor Summer Beer
Anchor Brewing Company | San Francisco, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Wheat Ale

ABV - 4.6%

This brew poured up a cloudy amber colored body with an intense foamy white head with amazing retention and lacing. Aromas of toasted/buttered wheat bread, lemon zest, and a hint of some field grasses. Light- to medium-bodied with a nice lemony/bready flavor (almost like a good tea cake) and a subtly hoppy bite on the finish with is smooth and crisp and definitely not heavy or harsh.

Pairing Recommendations: poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Boulevard Irish Ale
Boulevard Brewing Co. | Kansas City, Missouri USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Irish Red Ale

ABV - 5.8%

IBU – 30

This brew poured up a dark copper-colored body with a hearty tan-colored head with good retention and minimal lacing. Aromas of caramel, toasted malts/oats, bread (or biscuits?). Flavors are very well balanced of sweet malts, toasted oats, dark fruits (plums), and light alcohol taste near the finish. Medium-bodied with a very dry finish with a lingering sweet, malty taste.

Pairing Recommendations: pork, poultry

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Avery Karma Belgian Pale Ale
Avery Brewing Company | Boulder, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Pale Ale

ABV - 5.4%

This brew poured up a clear, dark copper colored body with a creamy off-white colored head with good retention and amazing lazing. Aromas of peppery spices, dark fruits (plums, raisins), and bread dough. Flavors of caramel, toasted malts, and a light hint of citrusy hops. Medium-bodied with a crisp, refreshing finish with a nice caramel flavor lingering about.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, duck, goose, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Kulmbacher Eisbock
Kulmbacher Brauerei AG | Kulmbach, Germany
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Eisbock

ABV - 9.2%

What an amazing eisbock!! This brew poured up a near black-colored body with a bubbly head with moderate retention and lacing effects. Aromas full of dark roasted coffee beans, roasted malts and dark fruits (figs perhaps). Flavors of sweet malts, dark fruits, alcohol, and coffee. Full-bodied, thick and creamy, very smooth on the palate and warming finish reminiscent of fresh baked bread.

Pairing Recommendations: Save this one for dessert!! This brew would complement well with a rich beef or wild game meal.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Dendermonde Belgian Tripel
Brouwerij De Block | Peizegem-Merchtem, Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Tripel

ABV - 8%

Tripels are fast becoming a favorite brew-style of mine and this ale does not disappoint in any way! This brew poured up a slightly clear amber-colored body with a nice thick bubbly white head with good retention and lacing. Aromas of sweet malts, sugars, and bread dough. Flavors are loaded with lemon zest, wild honey, roasted malts, and a slight hint of hops. Medium-bodied, very smooth with a finish that is dry and refreshing with no harsh aftertastes.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, pork

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Guinness Foreign Extra Stout
Guinness Ltd. | Dublin, Ireland
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Foreign/Export Stout

ABV - 7.5%

This brew poured up a jet-black colored body with an insanely huge mocha-colored bubbly head with amazing retention and lacing. Aromas of rum, slow roasted robust coffee beans, and toasted malts. Flavors of the same but filled with good hits of the citrusy hops and then mellowed out with the sweet malts. Medium-bodied with a very dry finish with lingering notes of hazelnut. For me this brew seemed a little “thin” for a stout but still a good brew nonetheless. Would pair up nicely with some of my decadent burgers!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/chimaywhite.jpg
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Chimay Tripel / Blanche (White) Cinq Cents
Bieres de Chimay (Abbaye Notre Dame de Scourmont) | Baileux (Chimay), Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Tripel

ABV - 8%

The Tripel craze continues! If you have not had the chance to try a tripel, you MUST! This brew poured up a hazy dark-orange colored body with an intensely creamy, foamy off-white colored head; long-lasting retention and lacing effects. Aromas of yeast, orange zest, cloves, and peppery spices. Flavors are quite complex and well-balanced with a very sweet-n-sour hit up front followed by a dry finish with light citrusy flavors lingering long afterwards. Loads of carbonation in the medium-bodied brew. Would pair this up with a slow-roasted pork rack or perhaps a slow-roasted rack of lamb.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, pork

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Chimay Bleue (Blue) Grande Reserve
Bières de Chimay (Abbaye Notre Dame de Scourmont) | Baileux (Chimay), Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale

ABV - 9%

Ooooh mercy! This is one dark ale that needs to be on everyone’s taste list! This brew poured up a dark root-beer brown colored body sporting a huge frothy off-white colored head with good retention (slowly dissipating down to a thin sheen) and amazing lacing effects. Aromas of figs, dark cherries, sweet malts, pine nuts, cloves and spices (like nutmeg, cinnamon, etc.). The flavors are of the same but oh so complex – each sip has it’s own reward and it gets much better as the beer warms. Medium- to Full-bodied, ultra smooth, slow carbonation with a finish that is dry and you will definitely know that there is some alcohol in this one! Definitely a brew to pair with a slow-grilled juicy steak!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, salmon, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Carlow O’Hara’s Irish Red
Carlow Brewing Company | County Carlow, Ireland
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Irish Ale

ABV - 4.3%

A middle-of-the-road Irish ale in my opinion. This brew poured up a dark red colored body with a one-finger thick foamy head; moderate retention and lacing effects. Aromas of yeast, biscuits, honey. Flavors of the same but nothing over the top. Medium-bodied, variable levels of carbonation, with a very dry finish that is somewhat lacking in flavor of any noticeable sort. Not a bad brew but nothing much to rave about either; but definitely something to be chosen over any of the macros!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, duck, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Tilburg’s Dutch Brown Ale
Bierbrouwerij De Koningshoeven B.V. | Berkel-Enschot, Netherlands
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Dark Ale

ABV - 5%

There’s something in this brew that just reminds me way too much of fruit beers (which I really don’t care for). This brew poured up a dark cherry-colored body with a frothy tan head; good retention, minimal lacing. Aromas of grape juice (I think this is what is throwing me off), caramel and old molasses. Flavors of the same; raisins, caramel, molasses, grains. Really it reminded me of an old Nestle Chunky candy bar that had been sitting around for way too long (yeah, like when the chocolate turned that pasty white color!). Medium-bodied with a dry fruity finish full of dark fruits and peppery spices.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, salmon, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Abita Christmas Ale 2010
Abita Brewing Co. | Abita Springs, Louisiana USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Brown Ale

ABV - 6.13%

This brew poured up a dark amber colored body with a one-finger thick off-white colored head; moderate retention and minimal lacing. Aromas of citrusy hops, harvest spices (nutmeg, etc.) and orange zest. Flavors are rather bland making this brew a good chugger/quaffer for those into that sort of drinking style. Near medium-bodied, watered-down with a bland and tasteless finish. I was a bit dismayed at this brew and hope that future runs will improve.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, partridge, pork, rabbit, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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St. Bernardus Tripel
Brouwerij St. Bernardus NV | Watou, Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Tripel

ABV - 8%

This awesome brew poured up a cloudy dark orange colored body sporting a hearty two-finger frothy white colored head with good retention and lacing. Aromas of apricots, sugars, and some spice that I just have not been able to pinpoint as of yet. The flavors in this brew are just amazing and very well-balanced, full of caramel, toffee, fruits, lemon zest, and a slight hint of alcohol. Full-bodied, very creamy and smooth, with a dry, yeast-like finish.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, duck, geese, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, rattlesnake, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Boulevard Dark Truth Stout
Boulevard Brewing Co. | Kansas City, Missouri USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 9.7%

IBU – 60

Stop reading and go get some of this brew and enjoy! Poured up a dark brown colored body with a frothy thick tan colored head with good retention and light lacing. Aromas of chocolate, smoked wood, dark fruits, and a hint of hops. Flavors of roasted malts, chocolate, coffee, dark fruits. Medium-bodied, lots of carbonation, dry finish with lingering flavors of dark chocolates. Would definitely pair this one up with some smoked meats!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Dogfish Head Palo Santo Marron
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery | Milton, Delaware USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Brown Ale

ABV - 12%

What a magnificent brew to get introduced into the Dogfish Head line of brews! This brew poured up a deep, dark mahogany colored body with a two-finger thick tan colored head with amazing retention and lacing. Deep dark aromas of roasted malts, robust coffee, dark chocolates, thick-n-rich molasses and smoked/charred wood. Flavors reflect those same in a very well-balanced brew. Full-bodied, thick-rich-n-creamy, ultra smooth and very easy on the drinkability scale with a crisp clean finish and lingering flavors of chocolate and caramel. In my opinion, any food would just undermine this fine brew. Have it all by itself as a well-deserved dessert! You can thank me later!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, partridge, pork, rabbit, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Unibroue Maudite
Unibroue | Chambly, Quebec; Canada
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Strong Dark Ale

ABV - 8%

IBU – 22

Well this is one big step above Labatt!!!! This brew poured up a deep dark amber colored body with a white frothy head with great retention and loads of lacing. Aromas of yeast, sweet malts, spices (cloves, etc.), bananas. Flavors of the same with even a hint of made-from-scratch fresh-baked biscuits. Medium-bodied, good carbonation, velvety smooth with a dry, yeast-filled finish and aftertaste. Smoked salmon would be my choice to pair up with this brew.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, salmon, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Unibroue La Fin Du Monde
Unibroue | Chambly, Quebec; Canada
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Tripel

ABV - 9%

IBU – 19

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/flags/canada.gif Oh, Canada! La Fin Du Monde – the end of the world. Probably one of the finest tripels I have tasted thus far! This brew poured up a cloudy apricot colored body with a thick foamy head with amazing retention and lacing. Scents of fruits (apricots, maybe peaches), bready yeasts, tropical fruit and cloves. The flavor is absolutely amazing; full of fruits (apricot) and cloves. Medium-bodied, smooth and creamy, with a dry, bready finish. A spicy pork meal would be the choice of mine for this hearty tripel!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, pork

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Avery Mephistopheles Stout
Avery Brewing Company | Boulder, Colorado USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 16.83%

Strong. Aromatic. Flavorful. Exquisite. This brew poured up a rich black colored body with a hearty mocha-colored frothy head with good retention and lacing on the glass. Aromas of chocolate, cherries, roasted malts, smoked/charred wood. Flavors of the same along with dark fruits (raisins, figs, plums), strong bitter espresso, rum or bourbon (depending on which sip you are on!). Full-bodied, thick and creamy, very easy on the drinkability scale but do take note of that ABV level and keep an eye on how many you are enjoying! Go slow, sip and savor this fine brew. This brew would pair nicely with various meals but I would recommend enjoying this one all by itself as a dessert brew. Don’t blame me if you find yourself holding the bottom upside down trying to ensure you get the very last drop!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Left Hand Wake Up Dead Imperial Stout
Left Hand Brewing Company | Longmont, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 10.4%

Now this is one fine sippin stout!! It poured up a rich near-black colored body with a foamy tan colored head with moderate retention and great lacing. Aromas of coffee, bitter-sweet chocolates, plums, roasted malts, vanilla and zest of either orange or grapefruit. Flavors of the same; very complex yet very well-balanced. Medium-bodied with just the right amount of thickness that I prefer in these double stouts. Good carbonation with a nice dry finish with lingering notes of chocolate and orange zest. Would pair up nicely with beef or venison fajitas!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rahr & Sons Ass Kisser Smoked Porter
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company | Fort Worth, Texas USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Smoked Porter

ABV - 8.03%

Another fine brew from the folks at Rahr’s! This brew poured up a rich black-colored body with a thick, creamy tan-colored head with good retention and lacing. Aromas of smoked/charred wood, espresso coffee, roasted malts, dark/bitter chocolates. Flavors of the same and so well-balanced. Near full-bodied, smooth and creamy, good carbonation with a nice dry almost oak-like flavor on the finish. Can’t wait to pair this one up with some stuffed dove or some savory squirrel gumbo!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, duck, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Stone Imperial Russian Stout (2011 Classic Release)
Stone Brewing Co. | Escondido, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 10.5%

This is definitely one of the finest tasting RIS I have enjoyed in quite a while! This brew poured up a black colored body with a billowy tan-colored head that dissipated rather quickly but left moderate lacing. Aromas of roasted coffee beans, dark fruits, burnt sugar, and sweet malts. The body is rich and thick and loaded with sweet malts. Moderate on the carbonation with flavors of coffee, dark fruits, brown sugar, dark chocolate. This brew continues to improve on flavors the more it warms up. Generally with stouts I will take it out of the refrigerator and open; then let sit for 45 minutes to an hour so that it can ‘breathe’ and warm up; the flavors and scents just abound when you enjoy it this way! The finish has just the right amount of hops to sneak in with just a nip before giving way to lingering flavors of roasted malts and dark semi-sweet chocolates. By far this is my most-preferred brew from the Stone line-up!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, ducks, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Rogue Hazelnut Brown Nectar
Rogue Ales | Newport, Oregon USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Brown Ale

ABV - 6%

IBU - 28

This brew poured up a dark hazelnut colored body with a creamy tan-colored head that held moderate retention and light lacing effects. Aromas full of sweet roasted malts, hazelnuts (duh!), dark fruits, and something akin to powdered cocoa. Medium bodied and loaded with carbonation. Flavors of sweet malts, hazelnuts, dark fruits, chocolate. The addition of the hazelnut extract makes for a nice spritz to a brown ale! This would pair well with a juicy steak or better off as a dessert brew.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, ducks, geese, partridge, pork, rabbit, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale
Oskar Blues Grill & Brewery | Lyons, Colorado USA
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: American Pale Ale (APA)

ABV - 6.5%

IBU – 65

This brew poured up a crystal-clear light amber colored body with a frothy head that had great retention and lacing. Aromas of hops, hops, hops, and hops with a smidgen of sweet malts. Flavors matched the scent; loaded with hops but not too hoppy. The malts help to bring things in balance. Medium bodied, lightly carbonated with a dry, refreshing, slightly bitter finish and aftertaste. This brew would be awesome for the BBQ and/or fish fry!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, ducks, geese, fish, partidge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Oskar Blues G’Knight Imperial Red (a.k.a. Gordon)
Oskar Blues Grill & Brewery | Lyons, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial IPA

ABV - 8.7%

IBU - 60

What an awesome lil’ IPA! This one poured up a dark copper-colored body sporting a thin foamy head with good retention and wicked lacing. Aromas of lots of hops, citrusy fruits, and a hint of sweet roasted malts. The flavor was not as hoppy as I was anticipating but still a good dose to make this malt-head pucker up just a tad on those first few sips! It’s hoppy all the way through until the finish and then those sweet malts sneak in and balance everything up. Medium bodied and loaded with carbonation with a dry, refreshing hoppy finish and aftertaste. Pair this one up with something spicy!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, ducks, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Wychwood Scarecrow Ale
Wychwood Brewery Company Ltd | Witney, Oxon, United Kingdom (England)
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: English Pale Ale

ABV - 4.7%

This is a good, average pale ale. This brew poured up a dark golden-colored body with a one-finger thick head that dissipated quickly and left minimal lacing. Aromas weren’t very strong but hops and a hint of malts were detected. Flavors were fairly bland for the most part; lots of grains (like I was eating dry cereal) with a hit of hops and some sweet malts. Medium-bodied with a finish that is dry and hoppy. One thing I will add is that they have one wicked website!! (http://www.wychwood.co.uk/)

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, ducks, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Great Divide Espresso Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout
Great Divide Brewing Company | Denver, Colorado USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: American Double/Imperial Stout

ABV - 9.5%

Now this is simple an amazing brew! This brew poured up a rich, black colored body hefting a hearty mocha-colored head with unending retention and lacing. Aromas of espresso, roasted coffee beans, dark chocolate, bitter chocolate, dark fruits (plums, raisins), and sweet malts. Flavors of the same and so well balanced that you would soon forget you are enjoyed a splendid brew! Medium- to Full-bodied with good carbonation. Very creamy, almost like drinking a fine malt from the soda fountain. The finish is as robust as the initial sip; a slight bite of bitterness followed up with a lingering flavor of chocolate espresso. Definitely a fine dessert brew to have on-hand!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, ducks, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Bard’s Gold
Bard’s Tale Beer Company, LLC | Buffalo, New York USA
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: Gluten-free

ABV - 4.6%

This is my first gluten-free brew to sample. If one has celiac’s disease (the inability to process gluten commonly found in pasta, crackers, bread, etc.) this style of beer is one to sample. This brew poured up a golden-honey colored body with a one-finger thick frothy white colored head that dissipates quickly and leaves marginal lacing. Aromas of lots of sugars and dark honey. Flavors of the same but also include pear; so it is much like drinking a pear cider in my opinion. Light-bodied and very smooth/creamy. Loaded with carbonation and a finish that is clean and refreshing with no harsh aftertastes of any sort.

Pairing Recommendations: Pair this up in accordance with your gluten-free diet.

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Stone Belgo Anise Imperial Russian Stout (2011 ‘odd year’ release)
Stone Brewing Co. | Escondido, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

ABV - 10.5%

What a wicked twist on the standards for the Russian Imperial Stout brews!! This brew poured up a hearty black colored body with a bubbly mocha-colored head that dissipated rather quickly to a thin sheen leaving moderate lacing. Aromas of licorice, anise (fishermen will pick that one up real quick!), dark/bitter chocolates, slow roasted coffee beans and sweet roasted malts. Flavors of the same but so intricate! One sip I pick up the licorice; next sip it is vanilla and chocolate and coffee; next sip it is hot fudge and toffee. Medium-bodied and very rich and creamy. The finish is very subtly filled with anise and sweet malts. Definitely a quality dessert brew!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, ducks, geese, squirrel, venison, wild boar

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Foster’s Lager
Foster’s Group Limited | Southbank, Australia
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 5%

Like most adjuncts, this brew poured up the standard clear golden colored body with a frothy white head that dissipates quickly and leaves little to no lacing. Aromas of grains and candy corn (?!). Flavors are bitter and bland in this near-medium-bodied brew with a hoppy bitter finish and aftertaste. Definitely a ‘quaffer’ and one best suited for the BBQ or fish fry.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Redhook Mud Slinger Spring Ale
Redhook Ale Brewery | Woodinville, Washington USA
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: English-style Brown Ale

ABV - 5.8%

IBU - 30

Try this one… you’re gonna like it!! This brew poured up a clear, dark colored body (like cherry Dr. Pepper) with a creamy off-white colored head with good retention and marginal lacing. Aromas of sweet malts, caramel, toffee, dark fruits (prunes). Flavors are of the same but very robust and very well balanced with hints of rum or bourbon off and on. Medium-bodied, well carbonated, with a nice hit of hops for a slightly bitter finish and a lingering aftertaste of dark toffee candy. Definitely an easy drinker!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, dove, ducks, geese, partridge, pork, rabbit, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Widmer Brothers Rotator Series X-114 IPA
Widmer Brothers Brewing Company | Portland, Oregon USA
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: American IPA

ABV - 6.2%

IBU - 50

One of the most flavorful IPAs I’ve yet to sample! The beer pours a clear, golden colored body with a thin white foamy head that had light retention but left good lacing. Aromas of citrus fruits, starfruits, hops. Flavors of the same with a large dose of the fruits coming through and a subtle bite of hops throughout. Medium-bodied, lively carbonation, and a finish that is dry and bitter yet very refreshing. A malt-head like me could really get into an IPA of this caliber! Definitely a great IPA for the BBQ or fish fry!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, ducks, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Pilsner Urquell
Plzensky Prazdroj, a. s. | Plzen, Czech Republic
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: Czech Pilsner

ABV - 4.4%

IBU - 36

A word to the wise … be leery of clear or green colored bottles!! Reason being is that they let a lot of sunlight in and if not properly stored that sunlight will skunk up a beer fast! And I think that is exactly what happened to this one! In order for me to better review this brew, I’m going to have to go to Czechoslovakia myself and try it there as fresh as I can get it! This brew poured up a crystal clear light golden colored body with a thin foamy head that quickly dissipated and left negligible lacing. Immediately upon opening I could have sworn I could reach in and pull out that skunk by the tail! (This is why I feel that this brew was improperly cared for during shipping/storage/display.) Once the skunky-ness went away, the hops and slight sweet malts began to come forth. I was hesitant to taste it based on my initial smell of the brew but one must be brave and forage onward! Flavors of grasses (almost like lemon-grass) and hops hit you from the beginning and then finish up with a subtle twist of sweet malts to balance things out. Light-bodied with a dry, bitter finish and aftertaste. Definitely a quaffer on this round. If I can find this on tap or in the can I would definitely give it another try.

Pairing Recommendations: greasy, beefy, cheesy nachos!!

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Napa Smith Lost Dog
Napa Smith Brewery | Napa, California USA
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: American Amber/Red Ale

ABV - 7.2%

Hot diggity dog! This is one amazing ale and if the rest of their brew line-up is like this one, well then, Napa Smith might become quite a regular brew in my stock! This brew poured up a crystal-clear dark reddish-brown colored body with a nice creamy one-finger thick head with great retention and lacing. Aromas and flavors full of caramel, floral hops and sweet roasted malts. Medium-bodied, extra smooth and an easy drinker with a finish that is amazingly refreshing and slightly dry with a lingering aftertaste full of roasted nuts and caramel. Can’t wait to try more from their line! Definitely one that I’m going to pair up with some slow-grilled rib-eyes topped with melted bleu cheese crumbles!!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, duck, geese, fish, partridge, pheasants, quail, grouse, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Foster’s Premium Ale
Foster’s Group Limited | Southbank, Australia
Not purchased; received as a gift.

Style: Adjunct Ale – Extra Special/Strong Bitter (ESB)

ABV - 5.5%

This brew poured up a dark amber colored body with an enormous foamy off-white colored head with fair retention and marginal lacing. Go easy on the pour cause this brew foams up fast! Aromas are somewhat musty and smell of wet grains; none to pleasant. Flavors … egads this was a bland brew but there are some grapefruit and caramel but none to my liking though. Medium-bodied and somewhat carbonated. The finish is dry and hoppy and a poor aftertaste to say the least. To be honest I did not get through the entire brew as the flavor was just not my cup of beer.

Pairing Recommendations: swash it down at the BBQ or fish fry

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Witches Brew
Brouwerij Van Steenberge N.V. | Ertvelde, Belgium
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Belgian Tripel

ABV - 9.3%

Tripels … gotta love them tripels and this one is right up there with some of the best! This brew poured up a golden colored body with an enormous frothy head with long-lasting retention and phenomenal lacing. Aromas rich with fruits (apples, pears, bananas) and one can definitely smell the alcohol in this brew! Flavors are amazing (honey, apples, hops and sweet malts) and only get better as the brew warms up! Medium-bodied and very well carbonated with a sweet, smooth finish that is warming and full of sweet fruity aftertastes. Pairs well with some spicy Cajun meals or all by itself as a sweet dessert beer.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, poultry, pork

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Pacifico Clara
Grupo Modelo S.A. de C.V. | Mexico City, Mexico
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.5%

This brew poured up a clear, golden colored body with a very thin white fizzy head that quickly dissipated and left no lacing. Aromas of hops and a hint of malts. Flavors are standard fair; bitter hops and a touch of malt to balance out but definitely nothing spectacular about the taste. Light-bodied, lightly carbonated easy to quaff, with a dry finish and slight bitter aftertaste. A good brew to slam along with some hot-n-spicy wings.

Pairing Recommendations: a fairly good throw-down for the BBQ or fish fry

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Kona Longboard Island Lager
Kona Brewing Company | Kona, Hawaii USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Pale Lager

ABV - 4.6%

IBU - 18

Here’s a great lager to throw down at your BBQ or fish fry! This brew poured up a cloudy golden amber colored body with a thin, foamy head this dissipated quickly and left faint lacing. Aromas full of pears, citrus fruits, sweet malts, and bread dough. Flavors of the same in this near-medium bodied brew that is very smooth and easy to drink. The finish is clean and very refreshing with no harsh aftertastes; only sweet malts lingering about.

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Stella Artois
Stella Artois | Leuven, Belgium
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Euro Pale Lager

ABV - 5%

This brew poured up a clear, light-golden colored body with a white frothy head that dissipates very quickly and left no lacing. Standard norm on the scents and flavors as that of adjunct lagers: grains, hops, malts. Light-bodied, easy to drink, highly carbonated with a clean, dry, hoppy finish. A good brew to have with some zesty fish-n-chips!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Pabst Blue Ribbon
Pabst Brewing Company | Woodridge, Illinois USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Adjunct Lager

ABV - 4.74%

This review was done by request!! This brew poured up a clear, pale-golden colored body with a white frothy head that quickly dissipates to a thin sheen and no lacing. Aromas of sweet malts and light on the hops. Flavors of the same in this light-bodied brew that has quite a bit of carbonation. The finish is nice, dry, clean and slightly bitter.

Pairing Recommendations: standard fair for the BBQ or fish fry

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Dog Bite High Gravity Lager
Genesee Brewing Co. / Dundee Brewing Co. | Rochester, New York USA
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Malt Liquor

ABV - 10%

First up on my malt liquor reviews!! Probably one of the best looking brews I’ve seen in the lager arena! This brew poured up a crystal clear light orange colored body with a frothy white head that dissipated quickly and left marginal lacing. Aromas of orange, honey, grains, and alcohol. Flavors of the same and totally not what I was expecting to come from a malt liquor. Very flavorful and very light on the palate. Has a nice, thick malty body with loads of carbonation with a clean, fruit-like finish and lingering aftertaste. Easy to drink and again, very flavorful. Will definitely have several of these on-hand!

Pairing Recommendations: spicy fish tacos or beef/chicken fajitas

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Bear Republic Red Rocket Ale
Bear Republic Brewing Co. | Healdsburg, California USA
Purchased @ Beer & Wine World (http://www.beerwineworld.com) - Mansfield, Texas USA

Style: American Amber/Red Ale

ABV - 6.8%

IBU - 67

Delicious!! This brew poured up a dark mahogany colored body with a thick foamy head with unending retention and lacing. Aromas of caramel, sweet roasted malts, dark fruits (plums, raisins), and a touch of hops. Flavors of caramel, bread dough, and sweet malts with just the right amount of hops to bring the sweats into check. Medium-bodied, moderate carbonation, with a finish that is dry with slight bitter notes and lingering effects. This is definitely a brew that all should try at least once!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, ducks, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

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Bear Republic Hop Rod Rye
Bear Republic Brewing Co. | Healdsburg, California USA

Style: American IPA

ABV - 8%

IBU - 80

Daggum these IPAs are starting to impress this malt-head! This brew poured up a rich, dark amber colored body with a hearty off-white colored head that had amazing retention and lacing effects. Aromas full of rye and hops. Flavors of warm bread, lemon zest, rye and piney hops. Medium-bodied and very well carbonated with a dry, hoppy finish and lingering aftertaste. Definitely something I would serve up when grilling or working the smoker!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, duck, geese, fish, partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, rabbit, salmon, shellfish, squirrel, venison

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/asahi-superdry.jpg
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Asahi Super Dry
Asahi Breweries Ltd | Tokyo-to Tokyo-shi, Japan
Purchased @ Lone Star Beverages (http://www.lonestarbeverages.com) - Carrollton, Texas USA

Style: Pale Lager

ABV - 5%

These Asahi brews are certainly a pleasant surprise! To be honest, I was half expecting them to be on the skunky side but they have proven me wrong and are good brews to enjoy! This brew poured up a clear pale golden yellow body with a white frothy head that quickly dissipated to a thin bubbly sheen and left marginal lacing. Aromas and flavors are genuinely almost like good sake in this light-bodied brew with a clean, dry finish with no harsh aftertastes. Definitely an easy brew to drink and not get that bloated feeling afterwards (unless you down a case or so!).

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.

[AWMiller]

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad51/awmiller/drinks/asahi-select.jpg
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Asahi Brewmasters Select
Asahi Breweries Ltd | Tokyo-to Tokyo-shi, Japan
Purchased @ Whole Foods Market

Style: Premium Lager

ABV - 5%

Probably the best of the Asahi line of brews! This brew poured up a dark golden colored body with a frothy head that dissipated quickly down to a thin sheen with good lacing. Aromas are filled with caramel, sweet malts, bread dough, and light hops. Flavors are pretty much the same but very light on the hops and full of that sweet malt flavor. Medium-bodied with a nice, dry finish with a nice warm, sweet aftertaste. Definitely one of the top Asian brews I’ve ever had!

Pairing Recommendations: beef, buffalo, poultry, fish, pheasant, quail, grouse, pork, salmon, shellfish

Disclaimer: All beer tasting notes and reviews are subjective. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are those of the ‘bier vorgeschmack’ and him only. The intent of this beer review is to spur interest in brands and styles that one may not normally indulge in and to entice them to venture out and try new brews. While some may argue that there are no other beers than Miller, Coors, Bud, and Keystone, this is much akin to arguing which vanilla ice cream tastes the best. There are more brews out there; try some and enjoy the savory adventure.