Monday, December 31, 2012

Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout


This high ABV (at 10%) beer was absolutely delicious.  It was chocolatey and smooth going down.  Definitely one to get if you can.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Sierra Nevada Oatmeal Stout (Beer Camp #45)


I was a bit disappointed in this oatmeal stout.  Compared to other beers in the style, I did not get as much of the of flavors I'd expect.  It was a bit heavy and chewy to drink.  It was ok and I'd drink it again, but wouldn't hunt this one out.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Sierra Nevada Imperial Pilsner (Beer Camp #43)


I was quite surprised by this beer.  I am normally not a pilsner drinker and find them to be boring, but this one was flavorful and floral.  This one won't be around for long, so I'd grab one if you can!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Samuel Adams Merry Mischief Gingerbread Stout



This beer was pretty good.  It was somewhat sweet, but not over the top.  I could taste the gingerbread flavors.  It is definitely a great holiday beer and and something I'd drink again!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Friday, December 7, 2012

Tröegs The Mad Elf Holiday Ale


Had this one back at the holidays - I like Troegs and don't remember having any bad feelings about it.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Samuel Adams White Christmas


It was okay.  Not enough spice delight.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Ringwood Old Thumper


Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Anchor Our Special Ale 2012


These come out every season.  They are consistently good and full of holiday cheer.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Full Sail Wassail


I seem to pick a couple of these up every holiday season.  This one was okay.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Dogfish Head Olde School Barleywine


Yet again, this is a great beer.  It drinks smooth and is not over powering.  It's one that is bound to please a room of beer lovers.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Weyerbacher Blithering Idiot



This is a delightful beer.  I keep saying I'm not a barley wine fan, but then I find more I love.  This is one of those.  Definitely a great choice if you're a BW fan.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Monday, December 3, 2012

Rogue Santas Private Reserve



Santa's privates....errr....Santa's Private Reserve is quite tasty!  This one is a bit bitter, a little bit hoppy, and quite a bit delicious.  This is definitely a beer I'd drink again!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Smuttynose Winter Ale


This was ok for a winter ale.  Smuttynose advertises on their website that this beer contains no spices, which seemed obvious from drinking it.  I guess that is kind of unique in the winter ales, but it left this beer a bit mediocre.  Something I'd drink again, but not my favorite.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Dogfish Head Hellhound On My Ale


The husband loves this beer.  I am on the fence.  This IPA has some definite lemon notes to it.  It's hoppy.  It's strong.  I am only somewhat in love with this beer.  The lemon is a bit strong for me and the citrus is just so overpowering to my palate.  It's one to try if you see it - you'll either love it or hate it.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Wagner Valley Sled Dog Doppelbock


This one was a pretty decent for a dopplebocks.  Could definitely smell the toffee and it was malty without being overpowering.  One to try!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wagner Valley Dockside Amber Lager


This beer claims to be malty.  That it was.  It was also had a distinctive peat taste to it.  It was surprisingly good and something I'd drink again.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wagner Valley Mill Street Pilsner


This beer was surprisingly good for a pilsner.  It was a it on the sweeter side, but it was easy to drink and I actually enjoyed it - I normally don't like pilsners at all.  If you're a fan of the style, or even if you moderately tolerate them, definitely give this one a try.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wagner Valley Grace House Honey Wheat


This beer was pretty decent for a honey wheat.  Not my favorite of beers, but it was drinkable.  Out of the beers I've had by them, it's probably my least favorite.  However, if you like the style you'll probably enjoy this one.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Founders Harvest Ale


This beer was quite hoppy and delicious.  It's definitely one to try.  Just be sure it's fresh since I imagine the wet hop wouldn't be so good after it ages.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

War Horse India Pale Ale


This IPA was mediocre.  It had the slight dish soap taste that I find in some IPAs.  I've been spoiled with west coast IPAs, but this one could still use some improving.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

War Horse American Black Lager


I've had a lot of black or dark lagers and hated them.  This one tasted more like a porter or stout though.  I really enjoyed this beer and kind of wish it was a bit easier to find so I could pick it up more often!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

War Horse Peace Bomber


This beer was definitely a lager.  I'm not really familiar with the "Vienna" style that Rate Beer has it categorized as, but whatever this beer is, it was not very good.  It was a step above your mass produced lagers, but definitely not amazing.  The brewery seems young though and hopefully they'll continue to improve their brews.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

War Horse Riesling Ale


This is an appropriate brew considering that it's made at a winery.  Three Brothers is neat in that there are several wineries and this brewery all in the same location.  This beer itself was light and easy to drink.  I imagine if it was summer and I wanted a light, crisp beer it'd be great.  It was a crowd pleasing type of beer. Maybe not for the craft beer connoisseur, but still decent.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Smuttynose S'Muttonator


The husband and I picked this up since we had heard such great things about it.  It sat in our fridge for a while and then we finally decided to drink it.  Neither of us are huge fans of doppelbocks, but we finally decided to take the leap.  This was not like any other doppelbock we've ever had.  It was a bit sweet at the end and nearly smelled like a barley wine.  It was surprisingly delicious and I would definitely have one again.  This is one to pick up if you see it out and around!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Seneca Wine Trail Deck the Halls Weekend



Occassionally the husband and I do something non-beer related.  This time we did something related to wine instead.  Through a series of interesting events, we ended up with a free to us trip to a B&B at Seneca Lake and a couples ticket to the Deck the Halls weekend.  

Deck the Halls Weekend is two different weekends - one in November, one in December.  This weekend event is a great way to see the Seneca Lake Wine Trail!  We just went to the November weekend, which is the 21st year this has been done.  You start the weekend and a specific winery (stated on your ticket).  At this winery you receive a wreath and a cookbook.  Your ticket will have a listing of all the wineries participating in the weekend.  Each winery you visit will give you an ornament for your wreath, a bite-size sample of food, and a wine pairing.  Each recipe for the food you're trying can be found in the cookbook.

The tour is self-guided, but they do offer DD tickets.  There are also a lot of people using limos, vans, and some tour buses.  The participating wineries are all around the lake and it gives you a great way to see several of the wineries along Seneca Lake.  This past year there were about 31 wineries participating.  Each winery offers something a little different in style, wine offerings, and the level which they participate.  You will find some wineries that are very strict - you get your wine/food pairing and then only one or two other pre-chosen samples.  Other wineries will give you five additional tastings and let you choose from just about anything on their tasting list.  Some wineries have special areas set aside for the event, others let you intermix with the people just on general tastings.  

Overall, this a great and well organized event.  We only ended up standing in a line to get food or wine a few times during the entire weekend.  Considering the large crowds and number of tour buses out, we were quite pleasantly surprised.  If you're looking for a great way to get into the holiday spirit and experience the Finger Lakes, this a great way to do it!


Check out Seneca Lake's website for more info on this event!

Finger Lakes Vanilla Porter


I had this beer on tap at Beef 'n Brew in Geneva, NY.  It was ok.  It didn't really have any vanilla scent on the head, but there was a slight taste in the beer.  If it was just a porter, it would have been pretty solid, but the vanilla porter label was a bit of a let down.  The porter base was pretty solid and complimented my beef on weck pretty well.  I'd definitely try something else from this NY brewery if I saw it available, but I'm not hunting for it.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.


Thursday, November 15, 2012

BREWERY REVIEW: River North Brewery


The husband and I stopped in here on our beer tour of Denver upon the recommendation of a friend and several local bartenders and people we met at other breweries.  Since they were somewhat new, nobody was quite sure of their hours, but we decided to try anyway and luckily for us, they were open.  It was a warm day so the all the doors/windows were open and it was quite an open feel to the sidewalk.  The tasting room is somewhat small with maybe 20 seats, but that was plenty as there were only 2 other folks in there with us.  If it was a crowded day though, I could see this quickly becoming standing room only. 

The beers were listed up on a chalk board and the bartender was really well informed about the beers, the brewing process, and any other questions you may have about them.  He talked a lot of "shop" with my husband and used the big window to point out the brewing system and the changes they were doing.  The beers we sampled here were very good and both my husband and I were impressed for a newer brewery at the quality.  Overall, this is a great place to stop if you're in Denver and love beer.

Check out their website for hours and other information!


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Southern Tier 2XMAS


I generally don't like winter beers, mostly because they're winter warmers.  I got excited by this beer because it's inspired by Glogg.  If you've never had glogg, you should try it.  It's delicious.  Anyway, this beer was like holiday in a glass.  It was spicy and full of cheer.  It's got a lot of umph for a holiday beer.  I'd say this was one to pick up and try for yourself...and maybe bring it to your next holiday party!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Saranac Big Moose Ale


This one was by far not my favorite beer ever.  It's an ale that drank more light a lager.  It was overly light and boring.  I'd skip this one, unless you love lagers.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Saranac Black Bear Bock


I don't typically like bocks.  I didn't really like this beer.  It was just average and boring and nothing I'd really ever choose to drink again.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
This one isn't on Rate Beer yet, so you're one your own.

Smuttynose Pumpkin Ale


This pumpkin ale, hopefully one of the last we'll have this season, did not have a ton of pumpkin flavor.  Overall, it's been a crappy year for pumpkin beers it seems and I'm going to guess it's due to the drought and a bad pumpkin crop.  Still, this beer was a bit disappointing.  It wasn't bad, just not interesting at all.  There were very few spice notes.  It's ok to drink, but I wouldn't be sad if you don't have it this year.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Saranac 4059 Porter


As far as Saranac goes, this is one of their better beers, as least to it's style.  It was a pretty standard porter, but it was exactly what you'd expect to see in a porter.  It was easy to drink and I'd definitely have it again...I'd even consider a 6 pack of this one.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Saranac Red IPA


This beer from Saranac was ok.  It was more of a red than IPA though.  It was a bit hoppy, but not as much as I'd like in an IPA.  If you get it in a sampler pack, it's drinkable, but not one to pick up on it's own.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Saranac Chocolate Lager


This is a lighter brown than I expected.  It is definitely interesting.  It's ok to drink, but not a favorite.  As far as lagers go though, it's not awful.  Just mediocre.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Saranac Belgian Pale Ale


Light. Drinkable. Similar to a Hoegaarden. I like it quite a bit for the style.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Dogfish Head Bitches Brew


Not as good as the first run of this a few years back.  It tasted more like a Russian Imperial Stout than I remembered.  It was very good, just not as mind blowing as the first time I had it.  We bought 4 bottles and I definitely suggest you at least pick up at least one for yourself.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Dogfish Head 75 Minute IPA


As expected from DFH with IPAs, this was one was good.  It was very active when we poured it and the head was crazy.  The head smelled heavy of maple syrup.  The husband said he couldn't taste it, but I could taste the sweetness.  I like it.  It had a good level of hoppiness too.  One to pick up if you can.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Left Hand Stranger Pale Ale


I like the label.  Not a bad pale ale.  Not a favorite style of ours, but the beer itself wasn't actually bad.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Left Hand Black Jack Porter


This is an English porter. Not my favorite in style or in general. I'd prefer their milk stout any day.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Lagunitas Brown Shugga


Woohoo. Brown Shugga. We got the last pack at the store nearby and it's so delicious. It definitely packs a punch and presents interesting notes. Definitely one to grab when you see it!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Bells Expedition Stout


We picked this one up while traveling across the country.  Definitely a great buy.  It knocked my socks off, and I drink a lot of imperial stouts.  It was delicious and amazing.  I will definitely buy this one again.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Wolaver's Organic Pumpkin Ale


This beer shouldn't be confused with the Wolaver's Pumpkin by Otter Creek.  Totally different brewery.  The beer smelled really good, but just tasted ok.  Not my favorite pumpkin beer, but not totally awful to drink.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
This one isn't on Rate Beer so you're on your own.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Elysian Dark O The Moon Pumpkin Stout


This is a drink once a year kind of beer. It's a dark stout so the pumpkin competes for the flavor.. It has some nice spice to it. Definitely one to try.I was thrilled to find it in NY since not a lot of pumpkin beers here are dark.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Peroni Nastro Azzurro


While in Italy, I decided to try some biers.  I was staying at a hotel in Torino and they had limited options on their menu.  I picked this one since it was at the top of the list.  It was very light and decent for a lager.  Not as bitter or gross tasting as a lot of American lagers.  I don't think I'd ever really drink it again, but it was ok for what it was.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Ellicottville Octoberfest Lager


This lager was pretty awful.  Definitely not my favorite.  I don't think I'll be picking it up again. 

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Keegan Ales Joe Mama’s Milk


This beer was delicious.  We had Mother's Milk right before it and it was a giant improvement.  This is one to try if you can find it.  The coffee taste is delicious and it's a well blended beer.


Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Keegan Ales Mothers Milk Stout


This beer was easy to drink and quite delicious.  It's a solid milk stout and I'd definitely drink it again.  It's not going to blow your mind, but you will enjoy it.

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Shipyard Pumpkinhead Ale


This is one of my favorite pumpkin beers.  It's spicy and flavorful.  It is the most complex?  No.  Can I drink a 6 pack of it easily?  Yes.  Do I love it?  Totally. I know a lot of people will disagree with me about this one, but I really don't care.  I love how flavorful it is and how it almost tastes like pie, but not as sweet.  Oh and for the price, it's just right!

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Magic Hat Hex


This is another fall seasonal from Magic Hat.  It was ok, but definitely not one of the better beers of the season.  It was drinkable, but nothing I'd go looking for.


Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Sixpoint Resin


This was a very good beer.  It wasn't as hoppy as I expected for the IBUs.  It was nice and smooth.  It reminded us a Pliny.  Not quite that level, but still comparable.  

Check out the brewery's site for more info.
See if it's distributed near you and what others think at Rate Beer.

PUB REVIEW: Oskar Blues Home Made Liquids & Solids

On our little tour of Colorado, we stopped into Oskar Blue's restaurant.  It was lunch time and the place was still busy.  We were seated fairly quickly, but the restaurant was kind of loud.  Also, there was a lot of stuff going on.  The walls were filled with decorations.

The beers were delicious, as to be expected.  The husband went with a burrito drowned in gumbo.  It was delicious.


I had the Jamaican jerk chicken sandwich.  I wasn't a big fan of the jalepeno jam and the peanut slaw combination.  Really, one or the other would have been ok, but both made it a bit too much.


Overall, I'd stop in here for a few drinks and maybe some snacks, but I don't know if I'd make a full meal out of it again - unless I could eat the burrito.

Check out Oskar Blue's website for more information on location, hours, and such.