Beer Notes (The Official XH Beer Discussion Thread)

[Emp]

I'm not an "extreme beer" drinker, but have noted many discussions here with interest.

Recently came across this article on the Dogfish Head brewery in southern Delaware. A good discussion of craft, micro and brewpub breweries, and what is happening with very strong beers.

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/11/24/081124fa_fact_bilger

Disclaimer: its from the New Yorker, for the Eastern Media impaired.

[BBC 08]

Great article. Rep points for the find.

[Raoul Duke]

The 90 minute IPA - It'll get you drunk.

http://www.chappellecenter.com/showinfo/images/samjackson.jpg

[Stonebreaker]

America needs better beers.

[BlueGuy]

America needs better beers.

I tried a new beer the other day. Ommegang (http://www.ommegang.com/). It's brewed in Cooperstown, NY. So far I've had the Abbey Ale (http://www.ommegang.com/index.php?mcat=1&scat=2&yr=1), and the Rare Vos (http://www.ommegang.com/index.php?mcat=1&scat=1&yr=1). Both were awesome, and I'd recommend them to the beer lovers on here.

[nuts4xu]

I love beer.

My favorite kinds are "Cold" and "Free".

[xu95]

I love beer.

My favorite kinds are "Cold" and "Free".

Neither of which you have offered me recently.

xu95

[Kahns Krazy]

I love beer.

My favorite kinds are "Cold" and "Free".

And both of which you owe me...

[Kahns Krazy]

The 90 minute IPA - It'll get you drunk.



In another thread, I've discussed my fondness for the IPA's, and in particular the high ABV variety. 90 minute is one of my favorite, though it is on the more expensive side - $10-$11 per 4-pack.


America needs better beers.

I disagree. I think there are plenty of great American craft brews. Great Lakes, Dogfish, Sierra Nevada, Cincinnati's own Barrel House... I could go on and on.

[XUfaninJAX]

Great find, there was a Dogfish head restaurant when I lived in the D.C. area where I would catch all the Xavier games. Great food and their beers are amazing there, all brewed in Delaware and shipped. Their Chicory Stout made great for the winter time. If anyone is looking for a good holiday beer at the moment, I suggest the Sierra Nevada Celebration, extremely tasty.

[Raoul Duke]

In another thread, I've discussed my fondness for the IPA's, and in particular the high ABV variety. 90 minute is one of my favorite, though it is on the more expensive side - $10-$11 per 4-pack.



I disagree. I think there are plenty of great American craft brews. Great Lakes, Dogfish, Sierra Nevada, Cincinnati's own Barrel House... I could go on and on.


Great find, there was a Dogfish head restaurant when I lived in the D.C. area where I would catch all the Xavier games. Great food and their beers are amazing there, all brewed in Delaware and shipped. Their Chicory Stout made great for the winter time. If anyone is looking for a good holiday beer at the moment, I suggest the Sierra Nevada Celebration, extremely tasty.

Kahns, I think you and I were discussing IPA's in that other thread. By far my favorite type of beer. XUfaninJAX, you and Kahns both mentioned Sierra Nevada. I think some purists consider it too "mainstream" but the Pale Ale is one of my favorite all time beers. The fact that you can get it at most gas stations is a bonus for me. I also love the Celebration beer. They had an Anniversary Ale that was good too.

Incidentally, biggs Hyde Park carries the 90 minute IPA. I picked up some bells two-hearted, which I have waiting for me at home. The $10 price tag made me wince though...

I love talking about beer almost as much as I love drinking it.

[Raoul Duke]

Also, if you're ever curious, the history (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India_Pale_Ale)of IPA beer is kind of interesting. There's been a pretty dramatic departure from the British beer shipped to India, to today's American-style IPA.

I think there are better sites than wiki for this, but they're not coming to me right now.

[xu2006]

Dogfish Head makes some great beer.

I haven't ventured up to the 120 Minute IPA, but I'm going to.
The next trip to Party Source is going to fetch me a 4-pack of the 120 and a sixer of the Palo Santo - haven't tried either yet, but I've been impressed with everything they make.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I'm definitely a hophead. xu2006, I'm not sure you can get a 4 pack of 120 IPA...last time my buddy went to the Party Source, they were only sold by the 12 oz. bottle...and one 12 oz bottle was like 12.00 or something ludicrous. I've tried 120 IPA and while its smooth for a beer that was 21 ABV (42 proof), it was still just way way too much, IMHO. I felt like it was more of a novelty...here, try a drink of 42 proof beer.

Here is a small list of some of my favorite IPAs and Double (Imperial) IPAs.

Imperial IPAs -- Three Floyd's Dreadnaught, Great Divide Hercules, Stone Ruination, Bell's Hopslam, Two Brother's Hop Juice, Weyerbacher Simcoe Double IPA, and Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA.

Regular IPAs -- Dogfish Head 60 Minute, Bell's Two Hearted Ale, Stone IPA and Alesmith IPA, Dogfish Head Aprihop, and Two Brother's Heavy Handed IPA.

If you haven't tried Alesmith IPA, just wow...you can usually get it at River's Bend Wine and Spirits on 48.

And finally, do you like really, really good microbrewed beer? Do you like to have your meat smoked? (pun intended)....then when in Cbus....go here....you won't regret it...their IPA is great, there Double IPA is even better...their stouts are wonderful too...and the food is wonderful.

http://www.barleysbrewing.com/smokehouse/index.htm

As I said, you won't regret it...just make sure you have transportation...you won't want to be behind the wheel of a car after a few of their ales....

[chico]

I prefer a beer like Newcastle, or a good lager like Moerlein. I tried the Dogfish Head brown ale - waaaay too hoppy for my tastes.

[Fred Garvin]

Isn't Three Floyd's from Munster? I'd heard they had shut down production temporarily. For expansion or some other reason. I haven't seen it in awhile. Their Robert the Bruce Scottish Ale was kick ass. Founder's also has a dynamite Scottish Ale.

They just opened a Kroger Fresh Fare across the street and the beer selection blows. I was anticipating it to be commensurate with Jungle Jim's.

As far as the strong beers I know Am X and myself are devotees of Dogfish's Raison d'etre.
And I have had some DT mornings with Avery's Jubilation Ale. All I have to do in the morining is sit up from the headboard, take a look around and it is apparent I had the Jubilation Ale the night before.

I'm not sure why they call it Jubilation Ale. In fact I have a theory that alcohol is actually a depressant.

[Fred Garvin]

Also, there is a guy who posts some great repworthy beer posts in the Xavier heavy drinking group.

[dnyed]

If you can get your hands on a Clipper City Brewery's (Baltimore) "Below the Decks" barley wine do not pass up. It is 10% abv and is tasty. A six pack is all that is necessary. It is seasonal and is brewed in the late winter season.

[Kahns Krazy]

I shouldn't read this thread in the morning.

[dc_x]

Great find, there was a Dogfish head restaurant when I lived in the D.C. area where I would catch all the Xavier games. Great food and their beers are amazing there, all brewed in Delaware and shipped. Their Chicory Stout made great for the winter time. If anyone is looking for a good holiday beer at the moment, I suggest the Sierra Nevada Celebration, extremely tasty.

I actually live about a minute from the new Dogfish head restaurant....I try to make it over there at least once a month. They serve a 75 minute ale, which is a 50/50 mix of the 60 and 90...very tasty.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I actually live about a minute from the new Dogfish head restaurant....I try to make it over there at least once a month. They serve a 75 minute ale, which is a 50/50 mix of the 60 and 90...very tasty.


HOLY CRAP!!! I bet that is good...and probably a little dangerous. I like 90 Minute A LOT, but at the same time, its a lot of beer. I can only drink about 2 or 3 of them and I've had my fill....60 Min I could drink all night. So 75 min is a hoppy smooth drinking beer with a higher ABV....man, if its popular enough, I hope they bottle some of that....

[Muskie]

a 75 minute ale sounds Delish (delicious). I'm going to drink some fireside nut brown tonight while watching football. I know Leiny's may not be hardcore enough for some, but it's nicely priced depending on what you're looking for.

[nuts4xu]

Neither of which you have offered me recently.

xu95

It is strange, I owe all these people beer, but I can't recall having so much beer bought for me?? Wierd! Oh well, next time I see you the first beer is on me.


And both of which you owe me...

I do? What the hell...I will buy you one too the next time I see you. I was going to buy you a drink at the Auburn game but they don't sell Nyquil a the Cintas Center.

Tis the season to get Nuts to buy you a beer. I think I owe Vee one too for no good reason. One of these days I am going to show up for a Xavier game and collect on the good will I pay forward. I will need a cab home and might puke before the end of the game, but it sounds like fun to me.

[XUfaninJAX]

I actually live about a minute from the new Dogfish head restaurant....I try to make it over there at least once a month. They serve a 75 minute ale, which is a 50/50 mix of the 60 and 90...very tasty.


DC is it the one that is in Gaithersburg? That is where I used to tread, I recommend you step in there for their French Dip sandwich.... unbelievable sir... unbelievable

[dc_x]

HOLY CRAP!!! I bet that is good...and probably a little dangerous. I like 90 Minute A LOT, but at the same time, its a lot of beer. I can only drink about 2 or 3 of them and I've had my fill....60 Min I could drink all night. So 75 min is a hoppy smooth drinking beer with a higher ABV....man, if its popular enough, I hope they bottle some of that....

It is good. Like you said, it's the perfect balance between the 60 and 90. They only sell it in the restaurants. Although, I guess you could just buy some 60 and 90 and mix them yourself.


DC is it the one that is in Gaithersburg? That is where I used to tread, I recommend you step in there for their French Dip sandwich.... unbelievable sir... unbelievable

There is a new one in Falls Church, VA. I've never been to the Gaithersburg spot, but I think they are pretty much the same. The food at the Falls Church restaurant is very good.

[American X]

Last night, I went down to the store on the ground floor of our building to get a lime and came back with a pack of Great Lakes Christmas Ale. Those blokes in Cleveland know how to make beer. I recommend getting some this season. This store has 6 varieties of Dogfish Head, 7 varieties of Great Lakes, and an ungodly selection of other fine beers. Reading this thread led me to open two of the Christmas Ales.

Yes, Three Floyd's is in Munster, IN. Great brewery, but after trying most of their beers I now pick up Two Brothers instead.

That Sierra Anniversay Ale is surprisingly good, very hoppy.

If Dogfish Head opened an alehouse in DC, I now regret ever moving from DC.

[Raoul Duke]

It is good. Like you said, it's the perfect balance between the 60 and 90. They only sell it in the restaurants. Although, I guess you could just buy some 60 and 90 and mix them yourself.

Homer: Got any of that beer that has candy floating in it? You know, Skittlebrau?

Apu: Such a beer does not exist, sir. I think you must have dreamed it.

Homer: Oh. Well, then just give me a six-pack and a couple of bags of Skittles.

[Raoul Duke]

Last night, I went down to the store on the ground floor of our building to get a lime and came back with a pack of Great Lakes Christmas Ale. Those blokes in Cleveland know how to make beer. I recommend getting some this season.

That stuff is the chronic. They have it on tap at zips. With that said, i can only drink one or two of them.

[Kahns Krazy]

RD, totally agree on the GL Christmas Ale. I normally start with one of those, then move on. I'm not a fan of the snifter style glass though.

I like most of Great Lakes' beers. Their IPA, however, is not one of my favorites. There are so many good IPAs out there.

I think Magic Hat does a decent job of blending styles of beers. They make some tasty beers that straddle the line between two beer styles. They have not figured out the high ABV category, and are therefore forbidden from Garvin's icebox.

[golfitup]

What'd you all live on during your time at X? For me it was Keystone Light. Can't beat 30 stones for 12 bucks! Instant party.....

[Muskie]

That stuff is the chronic. They have it on tap at zips. With that said, i can only drink one or two of them.


Looks like I'll be eating at Zips on Wed.

[Kahns Krazy]

Looks like I'll be eating at Zips on Wed.

That's a good idea. I tried it one time on mushrooms, and I can't say it went all that well.

Oh wait. That says Wed. Nevermind.

[X Factor]

Great discussion. I'm a huge hophead. More often than not, the hoppierthe better for me.

Some of my favorite IPA's and Double's are Bell's Two-Hearted Ale, Bell's Hopslam, Victory Hopdevil, Great Divde's Hercules, Hoppin Frog's Mean Manalishi, Stone's Ruination, Three Floyd's Dreadnaught, Bear Republic's Racer 5.

If I had to choose my favorite though, it's gotta be Bell's Hopslam. That is like nectar from the gods.

And you know what the best thing about Dayton is? Belmont Party Supply, easily one of Ohio's best beer stores. It's one of the better beer stores in the entire midwest.

Their selection is awesome and you can buy singles of just about everything they have. It's a great place for serious beer lovers.

This time of year, when it's freezing cold out, I love to sip on a really good Imperial Stout. That'll warm ya up.

[Strange Brew]

Anybody tried the Winter Bourbon Cask Ale offering from Michelob? Mrs. Brew and I love 'em (a little heavy though, stomach hurts when drunk). Also, Morlein (sp) makes a darn good winter brew and in the fall I love the Sam Adam's Octoberfest. However, when I'm travelling out West, nothing beats a Fat Tire or Firestone and in the East it has to be Yuengling. However, I can't get it in ME (the wife's family has a place there), so I get to sample the mutlitude of Micros there. They are all delicious and definately taste great with a lobster roll and plate of steamed clams.

What do you guys think of Euro beer? To me, a half and half is unbeatable (the English version, aka black and tan is a disgrace to me :))

[Nigel Tufnel]

Looks like I'll be eating at Zips on Wed.


Free advertising for BJ.....they have Great Lakes Christmas Ale at Dana's....I had 3 of them before the Auburn game....needless to say I didn't need any $6.00 Bud Lights during the game...nor would I have wanted one.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Great discussion. I'm a huge hophead. More often than not, the hoppierthe better for me.

Some of my favorite IPA's and Double's are Bell's Two-Hearted Ale, Bell's Hopslam, Victory Hopdevil, Great Divde's Hercules, Hoppin Frog's Mean Manalishi, Stone's Ruination, Three Floyd's Dreadnaught, Bear Republic's Racer 5.

If I had to choose my favorite though, it's gotta be Bell's Hopslam. That is like nectar from the gods.

And you know what the best thing about Dayton is? Belmont Party Supply, easily one of Ohio's best beer stores. It's one of the better beer stores in the entire midwest.

Their selection is awesome and you can buy singles of just about everything they have. It's a great place for serious beer lovers.

This time of year, when it's freezing cold out, I love to sip on a really good Imperial Stout. That'll warm ya up.

Sorry for the double post....but I couldn't agree more with this post....in terms of a great stout when it snows...I got a Bear Republic Black Bear Stout last night....it was mother's milk....where is this Belmont Party Supply store of which you speak? My beer shopping mainly takes place at River's Bend Wine & Spirits on 48...occasionally I'll hit Jungle Jim's....but as a resident of Lebanon I often have to remind myself that I'm about 15 mins from Dorothy Lane Market on 741 that has a decent beer selection....please...tell me more about this Belmont Party Store...much appreciated...

Oh...and my fave stouts....Great Divide Yeti Imperial Stout...sweet Jesus.....Stone Russian Imperial Stout....Victory Storm Imperial Stout....Great Lakes Blackout Stout....Alesmith Speedway Stout....so, so many. As I type, I'm enjoying my third favorite type of beer (behind IPAs and Stouts), the Tripel IPA....love Houblon Chouffe....beer guy at River's Bend out of the blue ordered me a Stone Cali-Belgium IPA...its like a tripel and its wonderful...not Houblon Chouffe wonderful...but darn close.

I digress...Belmont Party Supply, you say?

[X Factor]

Belmont Party Supply is located on Smithville Road in Dayton, just about 10 minutes southeast of downtown Dayton. It ain't pretty on the outside, parking is limited, not a ton of room inside, but you won't be disappointed once you start looking around. It really is a hidden gem of a place.

A couple of links.

Their website:
Belmont Party Supply (http://www.schwartzbeer.com/)

Ratebeer.com gives it 5 stars, Worldclass status.
Some customer reviews:

Ratebeer.com - Belmont Party Supply (http://www.ratebeer.com/Place/ohio/dayton/belmont-party-supply/371.htm)

If you make it over there, come back and let me know what you think. By the way, that's a great stout list you got. I've got one Bell's Expedition Stout left. So good.

[Kahns Krazy]

This stupid thread cost me about $150 tonight. Stopped in the Party Source on my way home. Most of what I dropped was for hostess gifts for the Christmas Party season. Picked up a bottle of 1921 Tequila, which until recently was unavailable in this country. I was turned onto this tequila in Mexico, and it always brings back happy memories. The blanco is currently featured at Party Source for $26.99, which is an outstanding price. I also grabbed a couple bottles of 30/30, one for me and one for a gift. The prices on these are coming back up, as the "feature" price on the reposado is $18 for a 750 ml. Picked up some gin for gifts and personal use as well.

Back to the topic of this thread though, grabbed the following:

Breckenridge Christmas ale ($8.59) (7.4% ABV)
Dogfish 60 minute ($9.99) (6.0%)
Dogfish 90 minute (4 pack, $10.79) (9.0%)
Mad River Brewing Steelhead IPA ($9.79) (8.6%)
Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale ($8.19) (6.8%)
Mendocino Imperial IPA ($8.69) (7.5%)

The party source gives a 5% mix/match discount off 4 or more 6-packs, and KY doesn't charge sales tax on alcohol sales, so that $9.99 shelf price for the dogfish is actually $9.49 out the door. On this side of the river, that same $9.99 shelf price is $10.65 out the door.

I already know I like the dogfish, and I'm familiar with the Sierra Nevada Celebration, but the rest of them will be new to me. I can't wait to dig in. Unfortunately, I'm still recovering from last week's cold, so I think I'm going to hold off at least one more night.

Edit: I should also mention that I noted the 120-minute for sale at $8.49 for a single 12-oz beer. That's a lot. Over $200 per case. Yowsa.

[blobfan]

This stupid thread cost me about $150 tonight. Stopped in the Party Source on my way home. ...

Wed and shopping don't mix. It lowers the inhibitions.

[Kahns Krazy]

I am looking forward to getting home this evening. The Breckenridge Christmas Ale is calling my name.

[Raoul Duke]

I am looking forward to getting home this evening. The Breckenridge Christmas Ale is calling my name.

I was checking that out at the store. Very tempting. Let us know how it is.

[Strange Brew]

Just finished off a six pack of it. It's good, one of the better winter/Christmas brews out there.

[Muskie]

I went to the Hop Shop last night and picked up some single bottles of various holiday time beers. They were out of the Great Lakes. But they'll call when more is in.

[Kahns Krazy]

I was checking that out at the store. Very tempting. Let us know how it is.


Just finished off a six pack of it. It's good, one of the better winter/Christmas brews out there.

It's not bad, but I was expecting more out of it. Though it is exceptionally smooth for a 7.4% beer, I kind of want my Christmas Ales to 'warm me up' a bit. I think I prefer the Great Lakes Christmas. The small batch (471) double IPA Breckenridge puts out is so outstanding, I wanted the Christmas ale to live up to that . On the upside, the Steelhead was a pleasant surprise.

[Kahns Krazy]

I might have to reserve my full judgment on the beers until my cold fully clears up. I'm having Breckenridge Ale #2, and it's much more enjoyable than the first one was yesterday.

I'm 9 days into this cold. It sucks.

[X Factor]

Hops have good medicinal qualities from I've heard, but it sucks when you can't enjoy the beer to it's fullest. I hate drinking a quality brew when I can't really taste it.

I'll be drinking a couple of Two Hearted Ale's tonight during the game and probably finish the night off with a Founder's Breakfast Stout.

[Xman95]

First off, I have to say that Donna's really did have the coldest beer in town. (I haven't been down that way in years, is Donna's still in business?)

Second, two beers that are outstanding and, for some reason, many people haven't had them: Corsendonk and Chimay (style doesn't matter, they're all good).

[Muskie]

Bump. How does a thread about beer fall to the 5th page around this place?

[coasterville95]

I'll contribute:

I tried that new Gorda's in Norwood where the old Tropical Bar was. Fantastic half pound gourmet burgers for $6.50 with steak fries and a pickle included. But thats not why you came to this thread, is it?

I asked what they had on draft, it seems like they have an extensive beer list of standards, micros and some import, but only two draft selections. Hudy Delight, and they had something called Hibernation Ale by Great Divide.

I tired the Hibernation Ale for $4.75, Alex.

Color is a dark brown, like an ale. Flavor was interesting, not unpleasant, but interesting. According to the Beer Advocate its 8.8% alcohol. They have one I was tempted to try called "12 Dogs Of Christmas" just the name of that alone peaked my interest.

[Smails]

This weekend I dusted off a few Christmas Ale's (GL) and they were outstanding. Really interesting/different taste. Also sampled Goose Island Mild Winter. Not as much taste as other Winter Ales, but pretty smooth. Tasted great with the tenderloin the wifey whipped up.

[American X]

Christmas Ale's (GL) and they were outstanding.

I found myself craving and seeking out the Great Lakes Christmas Ale to no avail. I highly recommended this beer.

Had a few Pyramid Snow Cap Winter Ales last night. Very malty with an almost coffee finish. Proceed with caution.

I can confirm Dogfish Head Raison D'Etre is still excellent. What a well-crafted beer, but I only like a couple with the sweet finish.

Great Lakes Commodore Perry Porter is as good as I remember.

Tried Big Sky Brewing Slow Elk Oatmeal Stout out of Missoula, MT. Very worthwhile if you are into stouts. Plus, what a great name and label:

http://www.bigskybrew.com/uploads/images/beersslowelk2.gif

Looks like all their beers have cool names and labels: Big Sky Brewing (http://www.bigskybrew.com/index.aspx/Our_Beers)

[halcyon.days.of.Carter]

I'm a huge fan of Great Lakes and all of their works. In fact, one of the first things I did upon my return from the east coast was run out and buy myself some Burning River and Christmas Ale. Living in DC, I figured I would have missed the boat but was shocked to find that there was a stack of Christmas at a local Giant Eagle (on Central Ave for all you Toledoans). Needless to say, I picked up twelve Christmas Ales and a six of Burning River which have made my yuletide celebrations quite merry.

I love the IPA recs, but what are some of your favorite pale ales? Sometimes IPA gets a little too heavy for me.

[Muskie]

Sadly we don't get Great Lakes anymore in Indiana.
Is it available in Cincy or Dayton?

[Smails]

I'm a huge fan of Great Lakes and all of their works. In fact, one of the first things I did upon my return from the east coast was run out and buy myself some Burning River and Christmas Ale. Living in DC, I figured I would have missed the boat but was shocked to find that there was a stack of Christmas at a local Giant Eagle (on Central Ave for all you Toledoans). Needless to say, I picked up twelve Christmas Ales and a six of Burning River which have made my yuletide celebrations quite merry.

I love the IPA recs, but what are some of your favorite pale ales? Sometimes IPA gets a little too heavy for me.

I can't do IPA's and I've tried a shitton of them. I was in Oregon for 10 days this year and I must have tried 12 different kinds. I consider myself a knowledgable beer drinker, not a beer snob, but not a hack either. My pallet just doesn't like IPA's.

[nuts4xu]

Sadly we don't get Great Lakes anymore in Indiana.
Is it available in Cincy or Dayton?

Yes it is available in both markets. If you don't see it, ask for it. The Christmas Ale is likely a tough find right now, but it is still out there. I have a good friend that works for Great Lakes and is the rep for this area. If there is a specific account you want to buy the product, and they won't bring it in for some reason, let me know and I will see if we can pressure them from the brewery.

[Juice]

Here is a blog about beer in Cincinnati and the midwest region. It is pretty new so not much is posted but I am interested to see where this thing goes and I figured we would have some interested people here at XH.

http://www.hoperatives.com/

[chico]

I'm very happy to see Moerlein back - now Hardman needs to purchase the Oldenberg recipe. Oldenberg was one of the consistently best microbrew I ever had. Right now I'll just have to settle for some Bourbon Barrel Ale and Bourbon Barrel Stout.

[coasterville95]

pGuys, I have to do my share to keep a shamefull situation from persisting. The beer thread was buried down so many pages I needed an excavation crew to find it. How does this happen with fans of a fine self respecting Jesuit catholic university located in a german heritage city?

Anyway my friend from minnesota visited over the weekend (Go gophers) and he presented me with two six packs he bought in Wisconsin. A six of Leinenkugel's honey-weiss and a six of new glarus brewing company spotted cow ale.

I need to put this stuff in the beer fridge and report back later how it was.

[newtsac]

Spaten oktoberfest!

[Cheesehead]

pGuys, I have to do my share to keep a shamefull situation from persisting. The beer thread was buried down so many pages I needed an excavation crew to find it. How does this happen with fans of a fine self respecting Jesuit catholic university located in a german heritage city?

Anyway my friend from minnesota visited over the weekend (Go gophers) and he presented me with two six packs he bought in Wisconsin. A six of Leinenkugel's honey-weiss and a six of new glarus brewing company spotted cow ale.

I need to put this stuff in the beer fridge and report back later how it was.

Spotted Cow is very good. They serve it at TGIF's in Milwaukee area

[Raoul Duke]

Looks like I'll be eating at Zips on Wed.

Had the Mt. Carmel Copper Ale at zip's last night. Ladyfriend had the Oberon. They're different beers, certainly, but I thought the ale killed the oberon. I think Oberon is overrated anyway.

[Muskie]

Had the Mt. Carmel Copper Ale at zip's last night. Ladyfriend had the Oberon. They're different beers, certainly, but I thought the ale killed the oberon. I think Oberon is overrated anyway.


I do as well. I can see why people like it... but it's not for me.

I had a SN Torpedo last night with dinner.

[Raoul Duke]

I do as well. I can see why people like it... but it's not for me.

I had a SN Torpedo last night with dinner.

Torpedo is freakin phenomenal. I'm surprised I haven't seen it around more, although biggs carries it. Pretty much everything that company puts out is excellent.

[Kahns Krazy]

I haven't been drinking much beer lately. I think I'm going to have a few beers tonight.

[Kahns Krazy]

I might stop and get a sixer of some good beer on my way home. Maybe even splurge for the Hopslam

[msj61]

I might stop and get a sixer of some good beer on my way home. Maybe even splurge for the Hopslam

I love IIPA's. Trying to get my hands on some Pliny the Elder or Pliny the Younger...to no avail.

[Raoul Duke]

Terry's Turf Club had Hopslam last time I was there a few weeks ago. I had two and felt good.

[X Factor]

Terry's Turf Club had Hopslam last time I was there a few weeks ago. I had two and felt good.

Hopslam is THE best beer in the world. Belmont Party Supply in Dayton still had some as of a couple of weeks ago. The 17.99 price for a six pack kills me though.

I just finished off my last couple of Victory Hop Wallop. Very enjoyable.

Anyone had Great Lakes Nasferatu? I love that stuff when it comes out in the fall.

[Kahns Krazy]

I had a miserable experience at Terry's the last time I was there. Service was horrible, place was overcrowded, and we got overcharged.

I can only imagine it's going to be worse now that the Food Network rated it the best burger in Ohio.

It's a great burger, but not worth the hassle, in my book. It's pretty expensive, and the fries are horrible. I got turned on to Terry's before Polly Campbell wrote her first story about it. The burgers were $4. It was awesome.

Like Yogi says, "Nobody goes there anymore. It's too crowded."

I didn't get any beers last night. I instead got to drop $150 on flowers and dirt at Lowes. Yay. Though I am proud of myself for remembering to get the spare propane tank refilled before both of them ran out. Like last time.

[Smails]

I am a firm believer in the double propane tank storage. A friend of mine turned me on to it and it was definitely worth the $65 one time shot for the additional tank. Nothing worse than having to run to the gas station in the middle of a grill session.

[Fred Garvin]

Yeah, I can't imagine the zoo at Terry's for Derby day. Today I was channel surfing and came across one of those obscure on demand channels you forget you have. It was in the 1100's and was a video version of Cincinnati.com and included a Terry's vid. And then today's Enquirer weekender had the info about the Food Network pub.

Yesterday, I was at Fresh Fare and picked up some of their Black and Bleu bugers. I put some American on top- because I'm a fatty that knows overkill- and it was delicious. No condiments on a wheat bun.

[xbball44]

Oh wow I cant believe I am seeing someone hate on terry's turf club. I have had nothing but great experiences there. You yourself said it was a great burger, I do not think that terry can control how crowded his restaurant gets. And to say you got overpriced? Didnt you have a menu? Were you unaware of what you were ordering? I mean the way I see it you are upset that too many people liked the place you were at, which made you have to wait, and you were "overcharged" even though you had a menu that told you the exact prices right in front of you. I'll take my chances at Terry's any day. Oh and the fries are wonderful I have no idea how you could disagree. Whenever I have been they are freshcut and hot when they are served

[Fred Garvin]

You sure are passionate about Terry's fries.

[Kahns Krazy]

Oh wow I cant believe I am seeing someone hate on terry's turf club. I have had nothing but great experiences there. You yourself said it was a great burger, I do not think that terry can control how crowded his restaurant gets. And to say you got overpriced? Didnt you have a menu? Were you unaware of what you were ordering? I mean the way I see it you are upset that too many people liked the place you were at, which made you have to wait, and you were "overcharged" even though you had a menu that told you the exact prices right in front of you. I'll take my chances at Terry's any day. Oh and the fries are wonderful I have no idea how you could disagree. Whenever I have been they are freshcut and hot when they are served

When the tab is $110, and the waitress splits the bill out (not requested) and the total magically becomes $140, I call that being overcharged.

We were told to order quickly so they could turn the table. This was after we were moved from our original table.

[Kahns Krazy]

I am a firm believer in the double propane tank storage. A friend of mine turned me on to it and it was definitely worth the $65 one time shot for the additional tank. Nothing worse than having to run to the gas station in the middle of a grill session.

Tank number 1 ran out Saturday at lunch. I congratulated myself heartily as I hooked up the second tank.

The only reason I have two tanks is the girl and I both had a grill when we bought a house together, but it's the smartest thing ever.

Under pet peeves: The Blue Rhino program only puts 15lbs of propane in a 20 lb tank. I'd rather pay 33% more and get a full tank. The convenience of getting propane at kroger rocks though.

[Fred Garvin]

We were told to order quickly so they could turn the table. [/B] This was after we were moved from our original table.

Sure you weren't at the Boathouse? I hate that speed it up b.s.

[BENWAR]

Sure you weren't at the Boathouse? I hate that speed it up b.s.

The Boathouse is the most overated restaurant in the city. We have about $40.00 left on a gift card and I hope I can find something edible.

Do they have a decent steak?

The ribs suck.

[Kahns Krazy]

I haven't been there in a long time, but the pork chops were always very good. With the way they overcook the ribs, I'd never order a steak there.

The chicken's not bad either.

Both are overpriced, but if you're not paying for it, what the hell.

[nuts4xu]

The Boathouse is the most overated restaurant in the city. We have about $40.00 left on a gift card and I hope I can find something edible.

Do they have a decent steak?

The ribs suck.

Inedible is kind of strong for the Boathouse. They might not be your favorite, but their food is far from inedible. They way they cook their ribs isn't for everybody but plenty of people have come through this town and love them and the sauce.

They do make a nice steak in my opinion. The Filet is very good. Is it "Presinct" or "Carlo & Johnny's" good, no way. But they cook it well and the cut of meat is top notch.

If you don't like the Boathouse, just get carry out from the original Montgomery Inn. I do this from time to time, and I haven't had a bad meal, incorrectly cooked meal, or anything missing from the bag. The place isn't my first choice to get a steak, and I like the way Jim Dandy smokes his ribs instead of boiling them. Their chicken is excellent and I have even had a their fish without disppointment.

To say that Montgomery Inn is not edible, is a bit of a stretch. I consider inedible food to be equivalent of dog food. Montgomery Inn might have a way of cooking their ribs that is different than some people like, but they do not serve dog food. There are plenty of people that eat dog food to sustain themselves, most of whom are located in Snipe's neighborhood, that would give their last piece of crack to have some Montgomery Inn ribs OR any of their steaks.

[BENWAR]

Inedible is kind of strong for the Boathouse. They might not be your favorite, but their food is far from inedible. They way they cook their ribs isn't for everybody but plenty of people have come through this town and love them and the sauce.

They do make a nice steak in my opinion. The Filet is very good. Is it "Presinct" or "Carlo & Johnny's" good, no way. But they cook it well and the cut of meat is top notch.

If you don't like the Boathouse, just get carry out from the original Montgomery Inn. I do this from time to time, and I haven't had a bad meal, incorrectly cooked meal, or anything missing from the bag. The place isn't my first choice to get a steak, and I like the way Jim Dandy smokes his ribs instead of boiling them. Their chicken is excellent and I have even had a their fish without disppointment.

To say that Montgomery Inn is not edible, is a bit of a stretch. I consider inedible food to be equivalent of dog food. Montgomery Inn might have a way of cooking their ribs that is different than some people like, but they do not serve dog food. There are plenty of people that eat dog food to sustain themselves, most of whom are located in Snipe's neighborhood, that would give their last piece of crack to have some Montgomery Inn ribs OR any of their steaks.

So I went a little overboard. The last time I had the ribs they were so salty I couldn't even finish them. That just doesn't happen with me.

I'm sure I could get a couple of blunts for the gift card in Snipe's neighborhood. Do you want to broker this deal Snipe?

[Cheesehead]

I am a firm believer in the double propane tank storage. A friend of mine turned me on to it and it was definitely worth the $65 one time shot for the additional tank. Nothing worse than having to run to the gas station in the middle of a grill session.


Yes, I'm a 2 tank guy too. I bought an extra tank at Costo for $29.99and I go to U-Haul in Sharonville of another tool rental place in Mason for re-fills. I always have an extra tank ready in case it goes out while I'm cooking. I don't like the exchange programs. I like knowing my tank is safe and in good shape.

[X Factor]

Grilling with charcoal >>> grilling with propane.

It might not be as convenient, but you can't beat the flavor.

So yeah, I'm a beer AND grill snob.

Also, just picked up a six pack of Troegs Nugget Nectar (superb IPA) and a bomber of Lagunitas Hop Stoopid.

[Cheesehead]

I agree on the Charcoal. It's just a convenience thing. I've been thinking about buying the old standard Weber Smoky Joe or the Egg but my wife bought me a $500.00 gas grill for Father's Day last year, so I think she would be pissed...

[Fred Garvin]

Grilling with charcoal >>> grilling with propane.

It might not be as convenient, but you can't beat the flavor.

So yeah, I'm a beer AND grill snob.

Also, just picked up a six pack of Troegs Nugget Nectar (superb IPA) and a bomber of Lagunitas Hop Stoopid.

I'm with ya on the charcoal and on the Nugget Nectar.

[Kahns Krazy]

I was in Chicago for the Dead show this week. Some of the hippies are surprising beer snobs. The 2 for $5 Fat Tire broad was a hit. Her margins were increased by her reduction in "upper lip waxing" overhead.

[Fred Garvin]

I was in Chicago for the Dead show this week. Some of the hippies are surprising beer snobs. The 2 for $5 Fat Tire broad was a hit. Her margins were increased by her reduction in "upper lip waxing" overhead.

I saw a "Dirty Jobs" this week that has him making soap. He gets in a quick jab about hippies needing to use more soap.

[Raoul Duke]

You guys ever use the charcoal with mesquite in it? Maybe it was the placebo effect, but I thought I could tell a difference. Also, non-self lighting > self lighting charcoal > propane.

To keep this on topic, one of my esteemed colleagues recently recommended the Sierra Nevada Barleywine Ale, which tastes surprisingly hoppy but has it's own distinct flavor. You just have to get over the thought of drinking something called 'barleywine ale.' Again, I swear by pretty much whatever that brewery puts out.

[Kahns Krazy]

The Bigfoot? I love that stuff. It will knock you on your ass, too.

[BENWAR]

You guys ever use the charcoal with mesquite in it? Maybe it was the placebo effect, but I thought I could tell a difference. Also, non-self lighting > self lighting charcoal > propane.

To keep this on topic, one of my esteemed colleagues recently recommended the Sierra Nevada Barleywine Ale, which tastes surprisingly hoppy but has it's own distinct flavor. You just have to get over the thought of drinking something called 'barleywine ale.' Again, I swear by pretty much whatever that brewery puts out.

I was in Vegas a couple of weeks ago and the brew of the month was a barleywine ale at our hotel. It was 13% and it kicked my ass.

[nuts4xu]

It is the 25th release of the Bigfoot (Barleywine Ale). In the past, this beer was not available in Ohio because of the high alcohol content (9.6% by volume). Ohio must have made some changes because I don't think Sierra Nevada lowered the alcohol content and I have seen other beers with similar levels of alcohol (Great Lakes Christmas Ale is over 9% too).

I haven't had it yet, but I think the Bigfoot is my next purchase. I have heard too many good things about this beer to not try it. It will have to be a night when I am not driving. That high test stuff knocks me on my ass.

I once drank 4 of the Celebration Ales from Sierra Nevada and had no idea how high the alcohol content was on that stuff (6.8%). Woo dog did that shit light me up.

[Fred Garvin]

It is the 25th release of the Bigfoot (Barleywine Ale). In the past, this beer was not available in Ohio because of the high alcohol content (9.6% by volume). Ohio must have made some changes because I don't think Sierra Nevada lowered the alcohol content and I have seen other beers with similar levels of alcohol (Great Lakes Christmas Ale is over 9% too).

I haven't had it yet, but I think the Bigfoot is my next purchase. I have heard too many good things about this beer to not try it. It will have to be a night when I am not driving. That high test stuff knocks me on my ass.

I once drank 4 of the Celebration Ales from Sierra Nevada and had no idea how high the alcohol content was on that stuff (6.8%). Woo dog did that shit light me up.

Yes, they changed the law regarding ABV a few years ago.
I've been wanting to try the signature offering from Nuts Brewhouse. That Xanax Ale will floor ya.

[Kahns Krazy]

It's American Craft Brew Week.

www.americancraftbeerweek.org/

Not a lot of events around here, but as good a reason as any to support your favorite craft brewer. I picked a bad week to redouble my exercise/weight loss effort, but if I'm good during the week, I'll be rewarding myself with some Dogfish Head at the end of the week.

[Muskie]

It's American Craft Brew Week.

www.americancraftbeerweek.org/ (http://www.americancraftbeerweek.org/)

Not a lot of events around here, but as good a reason as any to support your favorite craft brewer. I picked a bad week to redouble my exercise/weight loss effort, but if I'm good during the week, I'll be rewarding myself with some Dogfish Head at the end of the week.

Dogfish Head? That's how you choose to reward yourself? :)

[xu95]

I have never had Dog Fish head but one of my buddies in DC has told me I definitely need to try it.

xu95

[Fred Garvin]

Dogfish Head? That's how you choose to reward yourself? :)

Why wouldn't he?
You sound like one of those pretenders who raves about the overrated Oberon from Bell's.

[Raoul Duke]

Why wouldn't he?
You sound like one of those pretenders who raves about the overrated Oberon from Bell's.

Brilliant. Oberon sucks.

Speaking of dogfish though, I spent literally five minutes staring at a four pack of their Aprihop IPA. As you can guess, it's an IPA brewed with apricots. I loathe fruit flavored beers, and frankly feel that any male who drinks these should be shot (see: Blue Moon, Chelada style beer [what is that crap anyway?], etc.) But I finally figured I'd give it a shot, coming from an otherwise good brewery. The most I can say about it is that it's tolerable. The apricot isn't overwhelming but really adds nothing to the beer.

On a positive note, I was pleased to find that biggs had a sixer of the Bear Republic No. 5 IPA. That stuff is usually pretty tough to find around these parts. Excellent beer, cool label.

Changing beer gears, Avery has a near carbon copy of Chimay. I think it was called White Rascal. Finally, Chimay: how can a beer be so spicy, yet so... smooth?

[Kahns Krazy]

Victory Hop Devil tonight. Had the Hop Wallop in my hands, then decided to step it down for a thursday night. The Hop Devil is excellent.

[BENWAR]

I'm drinking some Burger beer tonight and it is quite tasty. $5.99 a 12 pack.

[Kahns Krazy]

I'm drinking some Burger beer tonight and it is quite tasty. $5.99 a 12 pack.

Wait- really? I'm planning to pick some up. Burger was a standby in our college fridge.

Did they get the old taste right? I'm not sure I could describe it, but I'm sure I'll be able to pick it out.

I think I still have some of your beers in my fridge.

[BENWAR]

Wait- really? I'm planning to pick some up. Burger was a standby in our college fridge.

Did they get the old taste right? I'm not sure I could describe it, but I'm sure I'll be able to pick it out.

I think I still have some of your beers in my fridge.

It still has that smooth taste since 1880.

[Nigel Tufnel]

For anyone that is in the area, my buddy (a fellow beer snob) told me about this beer store in Centerville....moron tells me its the best beer store he's ever been to but doesn't know the name. Its basically on the corner of 48 and 725. If you are heading north on 48, take a left on 725 and then another immediate left into this smallish wine and beer store. I went there last weekend and as God is my witness, it had the best beer selection I've ever seen. Yes, better than River's Bend Wine and Spirits, yes, better than Junge Jim's, and finally, yes, better than the Party Source. I've never been to a store that didn't have something in stock I was looking for...well, that changed last weekend. I was literally overwhelmed. They have about three rows of beer (doesn't sound like much) but its stacked to the ceiling and there are also boxes on the floor.

I got a bottle of Hop Juice, 2 bottles of Houblon LaChueffe Triple IPA, and a bottle of Mickeller Coffee Stout (ABV 13%). I was still a little overwhelmed when I left....problem is, this moron didn't eve check to see what the name of the place was either.

If you find yourself in the Springboro, Lebanon, Centerville or unfortunately in the Dayton area....this place is an absolute must.

Edit: Found the name of the place and an address....

Centerville Carryout (very original name)
34 W Franklin St
Dayton, OH 45459
(937) 439-1929

[Muskie]

Better than Belmont Party supply?

[Kahns Krazy]

I had the Barrelhouse double dark IPA last night at Junefest. That's a tasty brew, and it's always extra tasty when supporting a local brewer. 8.6% abv I believe. $5 for a 16 oz draft at a festival where a Bud Light is $4 is a freakin steal, too.

[Kahns Krazy]

Finished off the HopDevil last night while the Pens were finishing off Detroit. What's next....?

[xufan02]

Victory Hop Devil tonight. Had the Hop Wallop in my hands, then decided to step it down for a thursday night. The Hop Devil is excellent.

Kahn's if you like hoppy beer you need to get your hands on a beer called Huma Lupa Licious from Short's Bewery in Bellaire, MI. One word, Amazing!!!!

http://www.shortsbrewing.com/

If you go to the summer league games Father's day weekend I will be in the Nati and will bring a Growler if you want to get a taste.

[muskienick]

For what it's worth, I had a couple of quite good Turkish dark beers last night at Cafe Istanbul at Newport on the Levee. I don't remember the name since the bottle didn't really have a label --- just the name molded into the glass of the bottle --- not easy to read.

It's very good with the calamari and lamb shank!

[Kahns Krazy]

Kahn's if you like hoppy beer you need to get your hands on a beer called Huma Lupa Licious from Short's Bewery in Bellaire, MI. One word, Amazing!!!!

http://www.shortsbrewing.com/

If you go to the summer league games Father's day weekend I will be in the Nati and will bring a Growler if you want to get a taste.

Wow, I really appreciate the offer. Unfortunately, a wedding is going to take me out of play for the Fathers Day summer league games.

I'm thinking of how I could work it in....

[Raoul Duke]

What's next....?

The Great Divide Hercules IPA was one of the better double IPA's I've had. 10% too. I will admit though that I actually prefer most regular IPA's over doubles.

Next on my list is Stone's Belgium style IPA. It's apparently (you guessed it) a cross between an IPA and a Belgian style (think Chimay) beer. I'm a little skeptical but certainly willing to give it a shot. Southern Tier has something similar I think.

[Juice]

I ma just happy that they brought Burger beer back.

[Kahns Krazy]

Mmmm. Beer.

[Kahns Krazy]

Kahns, I think you and I were discussing IPA's in that other thread. By far my favorite type of beer. XUfaninJAX, you and Kahns both mentioned Sierra Nevada. I think some purists consider it too "mainstream" but the Pale Ale is one of my favorite all time beers. The fact that you can get it at most gas stations is a bonus for me. I also love the Celebration beer. They had an Anniversary Ale that was good too.

Incidentally, biggs Hyde Park carries the 90 minute IPA. I picked up some bells two-hearted, which I have waiting for me at home. The $10 price tag made me wince though...

I love talking about beer almost as much as I love drinking it.


Torpedo is freakin phenomenal. I'm surprised I haven't seen it around more, although biggs carries it. Pretty much everything that company puts out is excellent.

Stopped in to see my buddy Alphonse at Liquor Direct this evening. He wasn't around, but i picked up a six of the Sierra Nevada Torpedo. I don't recall ever having this fine beverage. At $8.49 on the shelf at LD, It's a relative bargain. 7.2% abv, and really an excellent beer.

[Kahns Krazy]

I managed to exercise a little restraint after knocking back 3 torpedos last night. I imagine the other 3 are going down tonight. A little chicken on the rotisserie. Some grilled peppers and onions.

[Kahns Krazy]

One of my favorite things about traveling is getting beers that aren't available locally. I was in Chicago this past weekend and had a few. The Bitter Woman IPA from Tyranena Brewing Company in Wisconsin was pretty good. Not awesome, but pretty good. Then I had a Daisy Cutter from Half Acre brewery in Chicago. This beer was amazing. There's a quick writeup here. (http://chicagoist.com/2009/07/01/chicagoists_beer_of_the_week_half_a.php).

It looks like as of right now, they have no distribution outside of Chicago, but if you're up there, I'd recommend finding it. I had it at a place called Hopleaf, which had 40 beers on tap and another 200+ on the beer menu. It might be my new favorite place on earth. http://www.hopleaf.com

How has there been no beer discussion for over a month?

[Nigel Tufnel]

I would recommend getting a bottle of New Holland's Imperial Hatter IPA....delicious. I've also grown pretty fond of Bear Republic beers. Racer 5 IPA is good, but I really enjoy their Big Bear Stout and especially their Hop Rod Rye. I'm not usually a fan of rye beers, but they put enough hops in it and are able to balance it out quite nicely.

[UCGRAD4X]

Being brought up on the likes of Braumeister, Top Hat and Wiedeman [all of which made Olde Frothingslosh look good] I have come to appreciate the 'life's too short to drink cheap bear' philosophy but have not yet acquired the means to afford many of the beers mentioned here.

At the change of seasons, especially after the Christmas holidays, a lot of breweries try to off-load these beers for cheap. This is the only way I can afford decent beer. Liquors Direct is a good place to find some bargains, but it is hit and miss [mostly 'miss' this time of year]. They often try to unload a bunch of fruity crap [they also have great deals on cheap wine for which I have fortunately not developed and expensive palate].

My compromise was to start brewing my own beer. My first was a fairly mild brown ale -close to the Newcastle - not bad but rather non-descript, but I did not want to go to radical on my first go-round. It actually came out surprisingly good, not great, but definitely more drinkable than my father's beers.

My most recent brew, still in production, is a Porter. I will be bottling it soon and will know in a couple of weeks if it is good enough to warrant an attempt at something more hoppy like an IPA.

It was surprisingly easier the second time and I expect the third to be an even smoother operation...unless the Porter tastes like crap and I reconsider.

[Kahns Krazy]

I would recommend getting a bottle of New Holland's Imperial Hatter IPA....delicious. I've also grown pretty fond of Bear Republic beers. Racer 5 IPA is good, but I really enjoy their Big Bear Stout and especially their Hop Rod Rye. I'm not usually a fan of rye beers, but they put enough hops in it and are able to balance it out quite nicely.

Interesting you should say that, as the Mad Hatter is what I finished the weekend with. (I had to go back and find the menu of the place I ordered it to remember what I had). When I ordered the second, the waitress was somewhat surprised. She was a hophead herself.

[KabeX]

I'm an IPA fan as well. I'm building shelves in the basement so I've had amlpe opportunity to sample many brews. Flying Dog Brewery (from Maryland I think) makes a good one called Snake Dog IPA. They also make a Double Pale Ale that's 11% alcohol. But it actually tastes good. Racer 5 is good (had that in Sonoma). Mojo IPA (Boulder Beer Co.) is my newest favorite. IF you're in Cincy you can pretty find anything at Jungle Jims. Cork N Bottle and Party Source are also good.

[Muskie]

Does Ohio still have an ABV cap (10%)?

[nuts4xu]

I managed to exercise a little restraint after knocking back 3 torpedos last night. I imagine the other 3 are going down tonight. A little chicken on the rotisserie. Some grilled peppers and onions.

I finally found a 6 pack of the Torpedo and had my first one last night, man that stuff is declicious!! I looked a week or so ago, and much of this area was out of stock. I talked to my buddy at the distributor, and evidently they were having a tough time getting their order from SN. I am glad the problem is resolved, and this friggin beer was awesome.

I have long considered SN Pale Ale as one of my favorites, and the Torpedo is no disappointment. However, with the high ABV (7.2%) I don't think I will drink too many of these at a bar anytime soon, especially if I plan to drive home.

Sierra Nevada also introduced a Hefeweisen recently in this market (called Kellerweis). I am not big on the Hefe's but I hear it is excellent as well. The alcohol is much lower at 4.8% but I think that has more to do with the difference between a Hefe and an Ale (not 100% sure and I bet someone will correct me if I am wrong).

I like the hoppy beers and look forward to drinking a few more of those Torpedo's tonight.

[X Factor]

So this past weekend I accompanied my wife to Grand Rapids, MI for her national cheerleading competition (she's a coach). She coaches little girls, anywhere from age 5 or 6 up to 14 or 15 years old.

I knew Western Michigan had a lot of good micro-breweries so I decided to turn the trip into my own little beer adventure.

On the way up to GR, we stopped in Kalamazoo and visited Bell's Brewery (http://www.bellsbeer.com/index.php/home), one of my favorite breweries.

Very cool place with an "eccentric cafe". While I love Bell's, I was slightly disappointed with their tap selection. I ended up having two Kalazmazoo IPA's, which were excellent, although probably a notch below their Two Hearted Ale. I was hoping they would have their Expedition Stout on tap, but they didn't. I knew they woldn't have my all-time favorite beer in Hopslam because it's only released in the winter. I left with a Bells pint glass and a long sleeve Hopslam shirt.

The next day we drove about 40 minutes west to Holland, MI and visited the New Holland Brewing Company (http://www.newhollandbrew.com/).

Again, another great brewery with a very cool bar/restaurant. I ate a burger and tried their cask conditioned Oak Aged Hatter. If I could only drink one style of beer for the rest of my life, it would be IPA's, and this was another excellent one. I could definitely taste the oak that the beer had been aged in and it added another level to the beer.

My second beer at New Holland was their Dragon's Milk, a strong ale aged in oak barrels with a 10% abv, part of their high gravity series. This ale has the look of a stout, it's very creamy and has wonderful vanilla tones. The rich malts are balanced nicely by the hops. Great beer.

My third stop was back in Grand Rapids, at the Grand Rapids Brewing Company. The only beer I tried their was their cask conditioned IPA, which left a little to be desired. While it was better than any major American lager style beer, it was probably the most disappointing beer of my trip.

The next day I headed to downtown GR and the Founders Brewing Co. (http://www.foundersbrewing.com/founders/). This was my favorite stop on the trip. The taproom was great. The wood floors and huge bar were awesome. The beer was phenomal. I freaked out when I saw they had their Devil Dancer beer on tap. It is a Triple IPA with a robust 12% abv. The hops jump out at you and smack you in the face when you swirl the glass and take a whiff. The massive malt is balanced perfectly by the HUGE hops. It has an incredible 112 IBU's. It is dry hopped with ten hop varieties. My tongue was sore from all the hops and while I could taste the warmth of the alchohol on the way down, it wasn't overwhelming.

My second beer was their Firkin IPA, a cask conditioned ale. Again, just an excellent crafted beer. I wanted to also try their Imperial Stout they had on tap, but after my first two beers, I was feeling pretty good and decided to leave it at that. I did get an order of their beer cheese dip served with chips and crustinis that was amazing.

My final stop wasn't a brewery but the best beer bar I have ever been to, HopCat (http://www.hopcatgr.com/main/About.aspx). They probably had 50 beers on tap with about 200 different bottled selections.

I first tried New Holland's Imperial Hatter, a Double IPA, which I couldn't get at New Holland Brewing because they were out of it the day I was there. This was an excellent Imperial IPA, with 9.4% abv, and bigtime grapefruit and citrus notes, a characteristic of most IPA's and Imperial IPA's.

My second beer and my second favorite of the trip was the Great Divide Oak Aged Yeti, an Imperial Stout with 9.5% abv, big hops, vanilla, roasted coffee, and chocolate flavor. This was truly a wonderfully crafted Imperial Stout. Perfect in every way.

If you are ever in the Western part of Michigan, do yourself a favor and visit some of these places. There were a lot more micro-breweries that I couldn't get to and will the next time I get up there.

Tonight I had a Lagunitas Hop Stoopid, poured into a pint glass out of a 22oz bomber. This is a great beer, quickly becoming one of my favorites.

Also, for those in the Dayton area, Belmont Party Supply is hands down one of the best beer stores in the entire Midwest. It ain't much on the outside, but once inside, you will be amazed at their selection of American craft beers and imports with a HUGE selection of single bottles.

[UCGRAD4X]

What kind of beer do you think Obama will serve up for the big meeting at the executive picnic table?

Apparently the commander-in-chief prefers Bud [not even an 'American' beer any more]

Crowley drinks Blue Moon and Gates - Red Stripe.

Not exacltly an adventuresome trio.

[Juice]

Apparently the commander-in-chief prefers Bud [not even an 'American' beer any more]


It never was.

http://blog.beeriety.com/2009/07/17/budweiser-the-great-czech-lager/

[nuts4xu]

I knew Western Michigan had a lot of good micro-breweries so I decided to turn the trip into my own little beer adventure.


This was a fantastic report, Mr. Factor! Solid effort and very well done. I can't wait to try some of those when I am in Michigan next month.

You must have a pretty developed palate.

[KabeX]

Does Ohio still have an ABV cap (10%)?

Not sure actually. I always buy these in No. Ky. Hummnn, wonder if there's any law against that (bringing it home to Ohio)? Well, if there is, I always drink em right there in the parking lot.

[UCGRAD4X]

It never was.

http://blog.beeriety.com/2009/07/17/budweiser-the-great-czech-lager/

True - any Pilsner has its roots in czech - which most 'American' beer is basically.

Actually, I was refering to ownership.

[Juice]

True - any Pilsner has its roots in czech - which most 'American' beer is basically.

Actually, I was refering to ownership.

I know I was just being a jackass. I just thought it was an interesting story and your post gave me a reason to post it.

[UCGRAD4X]

I know I was just being a jackass. I just thought it was an interesting story and your post gave me a reason to post it.

Well, I must say, you do the jackass thing very well (I should know).

It was an interesting article. I was especially amused at the other 'beer myths'.

It used to be the big three just wanted to have the coolest comericals - funny, sporty, T & A, animals, etc. Now they want to try and sell brewing technique - like it makes any difference when your beer tastes like piss-water.

[Muskie]

So this past weekend I accompanied my wife to Grand Rapids, MI for her national cheerleading competition (she's a coach). She coaches little girls, anywhere from age 5 or 6 up to 14 or 15 years old.

I knew Western Michigan had a lot of good micro-breweries so I decided to turn the trip into my own little beer adventure.

On the way up to GR, we stopped in Kalamazoo and visited Bell's Brewery (http://www.bellsbeer.com/index.php/home), one of my favorite breweries.

Very cool place with an "eccentric cafe". While I love Bell's, I was slightly disappointed with their tap selection. I ended up having two Kalazmazoo IPA's, which were excellent, although probably a notch below their Two Hearted Ale. I was hoping they would have their Expedition Stout on tap, but they didn't. I knew they woldn't have my all-time favorite beer in Hopslam because it's only released in the winter. I left with a Bells pint glass and a long sleeve Hopslam shirt.

The next day we drove about 40 minutes west to Holland, MI and visited the New Holland Brewing Company (http://www.newhollandbrew.com/).

Again, another great brewery with a very cool bar/restaurant. I ate a burger and tried their cask conditioned Oak Aged Hatter. If I could only drink one style of beer for the rest of my life, it would be IPA's, and this was another excellent one. I could definitely taste the oak that the beer had been aged in and it added another level to the beer.

My second beer at New Holland was their Dragon's Milk, a strong ale aged in oak barrels with a 10% abv, part of their high gravity series. This ale has the look of a stout, it's very creamy and has wonderful vanilla tones. The rich malts are balanced nicely by the hops. Great beer.

My third stop was back in Grand Rapids, at the Grand Rapids Brewing Company. The only beer I tried their was their cask conditioned IPA, which left a little to be desired. While it was better than any major American lager style beer, it was probably the most disappointing beer of my trip.

The next day I headed to downtown GR and the Founders Brewing Co. (http://www.foundersbrewing.com/founders/). This was my favorite stop on the trip. The taproom was great. The wood floors and huge bar were awesome. The beer was phenomal. I freaked out when I saw they had their Devil Dancer beer on tap. It is a Triple IPA with a robust 12% abv. The hops jump out at you and smack you in the face when you swirl the glass and take a whiff. The massive malt is balanced perfectly by the HUGE hops. It has an incredible 112 IBU's. It is dry hopped with ten hop varieties. My tongue was sore from all the hops and while I could taste the warmth of the alchohol on the way down, it wasn't overwhelming.

My second beer was their Firkin IPA, a cask conditioned ale. Again, just an excellent crafted beer. I wanted to also try their Imperial Stout they had on tap, but after my first two beers, I was feeling pretty good and decided to leave it at that. I did get an order of their beer cheese dip served with chips and crustinis that was amazing.

My final stop wasn't a brewery but the best beer bar I have ever been to, HopCat (http://www.hopcatgr.com/main/About.aspx). They probably had 50 beers on tap with about 200 different bottled selections.

I first tried New Holland's Imperial Hatter, a Double IPA, which I couldn't get at New Holland Brewing because they were out of it the day I was there. This was an excellent Imperial IPA, with 9.4% abv, and bigtime grapefruit and citrus notes, a characteristic of most IPA's and Imperial IPA's.

My second beer and my second favorite of the trip was the Great Divide Oak Aged Yeti, an Imperial Stout with 9.5% abv, big hops, vanilla, roasted coffee, and chocolate flavor. This was truly a wonderfully crafted Imperial Stout. Perfect in every way.

If you are ever in the Western part of Michigan, do yourself a favor and visit some of these places. There were a lot more micro-breweries that I couldn't get to and will the next time I get up there.

Tonight I had a Lagunitas Hop Stoopid, poured into a pint glass out of a 22oz bomber. This is a great beer, quickly becoming one of my favorites.

Also, for those in the Dayton area, Belmont Party Supply is hands down one of the best beer stores in the entire Midwest. It ain't much on the outside, but once inside, you will be amazed at their selection of American craft beers and imports with a HUGE selection of single bottles.

Love Bells Brewery and Belmont Party Supply.

[Kahns Krazy]

Snipe would be proud of your 100:1 quoted word to typed word ratio.

I'm still at the office. I think I'm going to enjoy a beer tonight.

[Fred Garvin]

I would recommend getting a bottle of New Holland's Imperial Hatter IPA....delicious. I've also grown pretty fond of Bear Republic beers. Racer 5 IPA is good, but I really enjoy their Big Bear Stout and especially their Hop Rod Rye. I'm not usually a fan of rye beers, but they put enough hops in it and are able to balance it out quite nicely.

I like the Red Rocket Ale.

[Nigel Tufnel]

So this past weekend I accompanied my wife to Grand Rapids, MI for her national cheerleading competition (she's a coach). She coaches little girls, anywhere from age 5 or 6 up to 14 or 15 years old.

I knew Western Michigan had a lot of good micro-breweries so I decided to turn the trip into my own little beer adventure.

On the way up to GR, we stopped in Kalamazoo and visited Bell's Brewery (http://www.bellsbeer.com/index.php/home), one of my favorite breweries.

Very cool place with an "eccentric cafe". While I love Bell's, I was slightly disappointed with their tap selection. I ended up having two Kalazmazoo IPA's, which were excellent, although probably a notch below their Two Hearted Ale. I was hoping they would have their Expedition Stout on tap, but they didn't. I knew they woldn't have my all-time favorite beer in Hopslam because it's only released in the winter. I left with a Bells pint glass and a long sleeve Hopslam shirt.

The next day we drove about 40 minutes west to Holland, MI and visited the New Holland Brewing Company (http://www.newhollandbrew.com/).

Again, another great brewery with a very cool bar/restaurant. I ate a burger and tried their cask conditioned Oak Aged Hatter. If I could only drink one style of beer for the rest of my life, it would be IPA's, and this was another excellent one. I could definitely taste the oak that the beer had been aged in and it added another level to the beer.

My second beer at New Holland was their Dragon's Milk, a strong ale aged in oak barrels with a 10% abv, part of their high gravity series. This ale has the look of a stout, it's very creamy and has wonderful vanilla tones. The rich malts are balanced nicely by the hops. Great beer.

My third stop was back in Grand Rapids, at the Grand Rapids Brewing Company. The only beer I tried their was their cask conditioned IPA, which left a little to be desired. While it was better than any major American lager style beer, it was probably the most disappointing beer of my trip.

The next day I headed to downtown GR and the Founders Brewing Co. (http://www.foundersbrewing.com/founders/). This was my favorite stop on the trip. The taproom was great. The wood floors and huge bar were awesome. The beer was phenomal. I freaked out when I saw they had their Devil Dancer beer on tap. It is a Triple IPA with a robust 12% abv. The hops jump out at you and smack you in the face when you swirl the glass and take a whiff. The massive malt is balanced perfectly by the HUGE hops. It has an incredible 112 IBU's. It is dry hopped with ten hop varieties. My tongue was sore from all the hops and while I could taste the warmth of the alchohol on the way down, it wasn't overwhelming.

My second beer was their Firkin IPA, a cask conditioned ale. Again, just an excellent crafted beer. I wanted to also try their Imperial Stout they had on tap, but after my first two beers, I was feeling pretty good and decided to leave it at that. I did get an order of their beer cheese dip served with chips and crustinis that was amazing.

My final stop wasn't a brewery but the best beer bar I have ever been to, HopCat (http://www.hopcatgr.com/main/About.aspx). They probably had 50 beers on tap with about 200 different bottled selections.

I first tried New Holland's Imperial Hatter, a Double IPA, which I couldn't get at New Holland Brewing because they were out of it the day I was there. This was an excellent Imperial IPA, with 9.4% abv, and bigtime grapefruit and citrus notes, a characteristic of most IPA's and Imperial IPA's.

My second beer and my second favorite of the trip was the Great Divide Oak Aged Yeti, an Imperial Stout with 9.5% abv, big hops, vanilla, roasted coffee, and chocolate flavor. This was truly a wonderfully crafted Imperial Stout. Perfect in every way.

If you are ever in the Western part of Michigan, do yourself a favor and visit some of these places. There were a lot more micro-breweries that I couldn't get to and will the next time I get up there.

Tonight I had a Lagunitas Hop Stoopid, poured into a pint glass out of a 22oz bomber. This is a great beer, quickly becoming one of my favorites.

Also, for those in the Dayton area, Belmont Party Supply is hands down one of the best beer stores in the entire Midwest. It ain't much on the outside, but once inside, you will be amazed at their selection of American craft beers and imports with a HUGE selection of single bottles.

You made the best of a trip to Western Michigan...awesome recap. I have tried all the beers you mention (w/ the exception of the Grand Rapids IPA) and agree wholeheartedly with you assessment of each. I would have probably hit the Founder's Breakfast Stout and their Double Trouble IPA if they were available too, but then I would have been piss drunk. Did New Holland have their Imperial Stout on tap? I forget the name, but remember it is quite good too.

I've often talked to my fellow beer snob buddies about taking brewery vacation. It would be focused on Michigan...maybe mix in Three Floyd's Brewery in Indiana too. I would also like to hit the Victory Brewery in Pennsylvania. Love Victory brews...Storm King Imperial Stout, Hop Devil, Prima Pils...mmmmm....I must admit, although being a hophead, I think Victory's Hop Wallop might just be too much.

Oak Aged Yeti on tap? Wow....that's impressive. I also enjoy Great Divide's Hercules Double IPA.

I need to make it up to this Belmont Party Supply. I was very impressed by the beer store in Centerville on the corner of 73 and 48. You don't have to delve to far into Dayton to get there.

Have you had Alesmith's IPA or their Speedway Stout? Greenflash's Imperial IPA or their Imperial Stout? If not, give them a shot...top notch.

God, I love beer.

[Kahns Krazy]

I had the New Holland Golden Cap at Behle Street in Covington. Not my favorite style, but it wasn't bad. It's described as a "farmhouse ale" - very citrusy. Not bad for a summer beer.

[GuyFawkes38]

Speaking of beer, it looks like the beer summit went well. I love the video on this page....very surreal:

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0709/25637.html

[Muskie]

Does anyone know if you can get Nugget Nectar (Troegs) in Western Ohio?

[X Factor]

You made the best of a trip to Western Michigan...awesome recap. I have tried all the beers you mention (w/ the exception of the Grand Rapids IPA) and agree wholeheartedly with you assessment of each. I would have probably hit the Founder's Breakfast Stout and their Double Trouble IPA if they were available too, but then I would have been piss drunk. Did New Holland have their Imperial Stout on tap? I forget the name, but remember it is quite good too.

I've often talked to my fellow beer snob buddies about taking brewery vacation. It would be focused on Michigan...maybe mix in Three Floyd's Brewery in Indiana too. I would also like to hit the Victory Brewery in Pennsylvania. Love Victory brews...Storm King Imperial Stout, Hop Devil, Prima Pils...mmmmm....I must admit, although being a hophead, I think Victory's Hop Wallop might just be too much.

Oak Aged Yeti on tap? Wow....that's impressive. I also enjoy Great Divide's Hercules Double IPA.

I need to make it up to this Belmont Party Supply. I was very impressed by the beer store in Centerville on the corner of 73 and 48. You don't have to delve to far into Dayton to get there.

Have you had Alesmith's IPA or their Speedway Stout? Greenflash's Imperial IPA or their Imperial Stout? If not, give them a shot...top notch.

God, I love beer.

Nigel, that would be a great trip for sure. I would love to do that sometime as well.

Have you tried Three Floyd's Dreadnaught Imperial IPA? So good.

I love Vicotry beers too. Hop Devil is probably my go-to IPA, and their Hop Wallop is excellent, imo.

I've had Alesmith's IPA, which is a classic West Coast style IPA. One of the best IPA's without a doubt, but I've never had their Speedway Stout. That is definitely on my list of beers to try.

I'm pretty sure I've seen Green Flash beers at Belmont Party Supply so I'll have to check those two out also. Thanks for the recommendations.

It's good to know so many Muskie fans enjoy quality crafted beer.

[X Factor]

Does anyone know if you can get Nugget Nectar (Troegs) in Western Ohio?

I've been able to get it at Belmont Party Supply in Dayton. I think it was about 12 bucks for a six pack, but man, that is a very good IPA.

[GuyFawkes38]

Does anyone know if you can get Nugget Nectar (Troegs) in Western Ohio?

Just stumbled into Jungle Jim's for the first time in years. I think they have a better selection than Party Source or any liquor store N. Kentucky or SW. Ohio. I'd give them a call.

[Muskie]

I've been able to get it at Belmont Party Supply in Dayton. I think it was about 12 bucks for a six pack, but man, that is a very good IPA.

I looked last time I was there (February) so maybe it just wasn't out yet.

[WiLdTuRkEyXU]

Does anyone know if you can get Nugget Nectar (Troegs) in Western Ohio?

The drive thru in Hyde Park City Beverage carries it but they are out until the next seasonal shipment in February.

[WiLdTuRkEyXU]

Also I don't know if anyone has tried it yet but Stone has a bomber out right now that is delicious it is called 13th Anniversary Ale. Its very hoppy but has just the right touch of malt for a compliment. Its expensive at 6.99 a 24 oz. but its a must try at i think 9.5 abv.

[Kahns Krazy]

I did a little shopping last night. I have a fridge full of hoppy deliciousness now.

Seirra Nevada Torpedo
Harpoon Leviathan IIPA
Founders Double Trouble

A couple others I can't think of offhand. I'm looking forward to the end of the workday.

I actually picked up the Founders Triple IPA that runs $24 for a four pack, but that seemed rediculous so I put it back.

[Muskie]

I did a little shopping last night. I have a fridge full of hoppy deliciousness now.

Seirra Nevada Torpedo
Harpoon Leviathan IIPA
Founders Double Trouble

A couple others I can't think of offhand. I'm looking forward to the end of the workday.

I actually picked up the Founders Triple IPA that runs $24 for a four pack, but that seemed rediculous so I put it back.

You can't find Torpedo here in Indy right now. But it is good. I actually picked up some Bell's Oberon a week or so ago (first time ever), so I'm wading my way through that.

[X Factor]

I did a little shopping last night. I have a fridge full of hoppy deliciousness now.

Seirra Nevada Torpedo
Harpoon Leviathan IIPA
Founders Double Trouble

A couple others I can't think of offhand. I'm looking forward to the end of the workday.

I actually picked up the Founders Triple IPA that runs $24 for a four pack, but that seemed rediculous so I put it back.


Where do you do your beer shopping?

Founder's Double Trouble is excellent, but I've never tried the Harpoon Leviathon or Seirra Nevada Torepdo.

I had Founder's Triple IPA, Devil Dancer, on tap at their brewery taproom last week. Absolutely delicious! They were selling 4 packs there for 19 dollars which seems like a bargain compared to 24 bucks. Obviously they can keep the cost down when they don't have to ship it out.

[Muskie]

I am currently drinking a Founder's Cerise. An interesting change from what I usually get. It's fermented in cherry barrels (at this point I can't remember what I read on the label so I could be wrong).

[Pluto]

One of my favorite things about traveling is getting beers that aren't available locally. I was in Chicago this past weekend and had a few. The Bitter Woman IPA from Tyranena Brewing Company in Wisconsin was pretty good. Not awesome, but pretty good. Then I had a Daisy Cutter from Half Acre brewery in Chicago. This beer was amazing. There's a quick writeup here. (http://chicagoist.com/2009/07/01/chicagoists_beer_of_the_week_half_a.php).

It looks like as of right now, they have no distribution outside of Chicago, but if you're up there, I'd recommend finding it. I had it at a place called Hopleaf, which had 40 beers on tap and another 200+ on the beer menu. It might be my new favorite place on earth. http://www.hopleaf.com

How has there been no beer discussion for over a month?

I live right by Hopleaf. I was there last night and tried the Daisy Cutter...great beer. I also had a Great Lakes Dortmunder and a Delerium Tremens (one of my personal favorites).

[X Factor]

I found a place just south of Dayton, in Moraine, called Chappys Tap Room and Grille (http://www.chappystaproom.com/). I was told they have been open for about 2 years now, but I've never heard of them until just a couple of days ago.

I decided to check them out tonight and was really surprised for the better. Living in the Dayton area, there really isn't anywhere a craft beer lover can enjoy a quality beer besides buying your beer at Belmont Party Supply and drinking it at home.

The only other place in Dayton that I would recommend would be Southpark Tavern, located on Wayne Ave. in Dayton. It is quickly becoming the best beer bar in Dayton. They now have 18 beers on tap and a probably 50 or so bottled selections.

Chappys had 30 beers on tap and about 75 bottled selections.

Tonight I had a Southern Tier Unearthly IPA, a Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard, and then finished the night off with a Hoppin' Frog Boris The Crusher Oatmeal Stout. They had all of these beers on tap, and all there three were really good. They also beers from Goose Island, Bell's, Avery, Bear Republic, Dogfish Head, New Holland, etc. on tap.

Overall, I am just glad Dayton has a place to sit and enjoy a good craft beer. Their food was pretty good as well.

[UCGRAD4X]

Meijer [of all places] is advertising a sixpack of Roscoe's Hop House Pale Ale [also an Amber Ale] for $6.99. The ad says "Hand Crafted in Small Batches". Anybody know about or had this beer? Is this local micro like a Mt. Carmel?

[Kahns Krazy]

Where do you do your beer shopping?

Founder's Double Trouble is excellent, but I've never tried the Harpoon Leviathon or Seirra Nevada Torepdo.

I had Founder's Triple IPA, Devil Dancer, on tap at their brewery taproom last week. Absolutely delicious! They were selling 4 packs there for 19 dollars which seems like a bargain compared to 24 bucks. Obviously they can keep the cost down when they don't have to ship it out.

Party Source. I work in Covington, so it's nearby. I also hit Liquor Direct from time to time for wine and liquor and occasionally beer. They are known to have some great close-outs. For example, I picked up a case of the Magic Hat spring sampler for 10.99 there.

[msj61]

I'd highly suggest that you guys check out Party Town's "Rye 75" from their growler station. If I recall, the cost was like $6 if you bring your own growler. It's really good stuff. Has a IIPA taste, but the rye gives it an interesting "spice".

Another good one I've tried recently was 3 Floyd's "Gumball Head". Technically it's a wheat, but it's the hoppiest wheat I've ever tasted. VERY good beer. I liked it better than "Dreadnaught".

One more thing...I've heard sooooo many great things about "Pliny the Elder". Finally got my hands on some. It's very good, but don't go out of your way to get it. It's got nothing on Hopslam or Double Trouble.

[Emp]

The most informative thread I've ever started, certainly read. Keep the reviews, the beer and the info flowing, gents. All most appreciated.

[Raoul Duke]

Does anyone know if there's anywhere to get Odell beers around here? I haven't had any luck. Pretty much everything that place puts out is stellar, including the IPA and the Hazed and Infused. The Easy Street is a good summer wheat beer, as far as those go.

I hate to rag on a local brewery but I was not a fan of Mt. Carmel's IPA. Way too malty. They do have a few other beers I like though.

Victory's Hop Wallop is pretty much my new favorite. My goodness. 8.5% to boot.

It is sometimes hard for me to guess between a real Belgian style beer (Chimay) and a girlie belgian style beer (Blue Moon, which is garbage.) Avery's White Rascal is a pretty good replication of the true belgian style. Come to think of it, I may have mentioned that a while back on here. I don't know a whole lot about belgian beers, but I do enjoy the chimay style and can't stand the typical 'white ale' style.

Reports out of last week's beer festival (I did not make it) were that the Brooklyn beers were all top notch, so that place is next on my list. I think they even have a sampler 12 pack at biggs.

[Fred Garvin]

I had the New Holland Golden Cap at Behle Street in Covington. Not my favorite style, but it wasn't bad. It's described as a "farmhouse ale" - very citrusy. Not bad for a summer beer.

Two Brothers makes a terrific saison/farmhouse.

MSJ, I'm a big fan of 3 Floyd's Robert the Bruce scottish ale.

Finally tried the Bell's Expedition stout this weekend and see what you guys were raving about. Picked up a single for $3.50. I think a six would be inviting gastrointestinal havoc.

I think I'm gonna explore more of the Weyerbacher offerings.

[Kahns Krazy]

Does anyone know if there's anywhere to get Odell beers around here? I haven't had any luck. Pretty much everything that place puts out is stellar, including the IPA and the Hazed and Infused. The Easy Street is a good summer wheat beer, as far as those go.

I hate to rag on a local brewery but I was not a fan of Mt. Carmel's IPA. Way too malty. They do have a few other beers I like though.

Victory's Hop Wallop is pretty much my new favorite. My goodness. 8.5% to boot.

(...)
Reports out of last week's beer festival (I did not make it) were that the Brooklyn beers were all top notch, so that place is next on my list. I think they even have a sampler 12 pack at biggs.


Out of luck locally on Odell. http://www.odellbrewing.com/contact/faq.aspx


I agree on the Mt. Carmel IPA, and the other offerings. Though I can't get through more than a couple before I need to change beers. Something about the aftertaste of their Amber (which I think was previously the copper ale).

The Hop Devil and the Hop Wallop are both excellent.

I was on a Brooklyn kick a while back. They have had wide distribution around here for a while. I haven't had any lately. Let us know what you think.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Two Brothers makes a terrific saison/farmhouse.

MSJ, I'm a big fan of 3 Floyd's Robert the Bruce scottish ale.

Finally tried the Bell's Expedition stout this weekend and see what you guys were raving about. Picked up a single for $3.50. I think a six would be inviting gastrointestinal havoc.

I think I'm gonna explore more of the Weyerbacher offerings.

If you haven't had it yet, get Weyerbacher's Simcoe Double IPA. It is absolutely fantastic, if you like the hops.

I'm not a huge belgian ale guy, but without a doubt, one of my all time favorites is Houblon Chouffe Tripel IPA. Its got a small dose of the belgian taste, but its mixed with three different hops. Its amazing. Here is a picture of the bottle if anyone is interested....

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/27804

[nuts4xu]

There is a pizza place on Fields Ertel near Sam's Club called Flying Pizza. The place is run by New Yorkers, and they serve New York style pizza. All they sell is Brooklyn Beers and they are closed on Sundays. They have limited toppings, but their pizza is outstanding (if you like that NY style).

I recommend this place for anyone who likes the Brooklyn Beers and enjoys NY style pizza.

[Fred Garvin]

I've come to the astonishing conclusion that beer calories cause weight gain. I'm now conducting an experiement with beer commonly available at Kroger. Now I usually drink microbrews, strong microbrews at that. I've been trying to drink regualr Bud and it's tough transitioning. If i drink lower alcohol content beer I usually just drink more of it. This is why light beer is pointless for me; i just end up drinking more and pissing more.

If I drink 43 beers a week. It breaks down like so:
43 Bud at 5.0 abv and 143 calories= 6,006 calories
40 Anderson Valley Hop Ottin at 7.0 and 209 calories= 8,360
40 Anderson Valley Boont Amber at 5.8 and 179=7,160

Now I'm sure there is more of a disparity in the number of beers consumed due to the various alcohol contents. Much more than 3.
Still, I'm struck by the difference between the two AValleys. That is 1,200 calories a week and 4,800 a month. They say a pound of weight loss equals roughly 3,000 calories so you can see how that adds up over a year.

Some concerns:

1. less alcohol= less of that momentary serontonin lift. This is why recovering alcoholics become Starbucks junkies. I'd go the same route but my arrthymia precludes stimulants.
I wish I had something like Ativan to ease the mini-withdrawl.

And you gotta wonder about the long term chances of replacing the beer loss with water. Those water buffaloes never seem to be able to stick with it. Still I think I'll try lower alcohol beer, water and continuing exercise that burns 4,000 cals a week.
So far this week I'm off to a so-so start:
Monday: 7 buds
Tuesday: 7 buds

2. I could see me having less incentive to exercise if I decide to really reduce the beer intake. I tend to see the workouts as entitling me to drink.

[Kahns Krazy]

43 buds x 12 oz= 516 ounces (4 gallons) of bud x 5% alcohol = 25.8 oz alcohol
43 shots (1.5oz) dry gin = 64.5 oz (2 quarts) of gin x 40% alcohol = 25.8 oz alcohol.

64.5 oz gin @ 64 cals per ounce = 4,128 calories, or 1878 less per week than bud. 97,656 less calories in a year, or 32.5 lbs.

(note that I've seen various sites list 80 proof as anywhere from 64 to 81 calories per ounce)

[Kahns Krazy]

The SN Torpedo is quickly becomming my go-to beer.

Also had the Flying Dog Double Dog IIPA. A whopping 11.5% ABV. Very good - a little sweeter than I expected, but surprising for such a high alcohol content. I'll pick this one up again.

[Strange Brew]

Went to a "beer off" tasting party and surprisingly New Castle was the winner. I picked some up and have to agree that it is darn good.

[nuts4xu]

The SN Torpedo is quickly becomming my go-to beer.



I'm with you there. I love that stuff, but it isn't easy to find.

[BENWAR]

I'm with you there. I love that stuff, but it isn't easy to find.

Another vote for SN Torpedo. That stuff is awesome!! I picked up a 6 pack at the Jungle last weekend for $7.99 and wish I had one now.

[Fred Garvin]

Well last week ended with 51 beers consumed. I had only one off day but i mixed in a massive day hike on East Fork's backpack trail to compensate. All but 9 were Bud.

One observation: was at Desha's in Montgomery on Friday. Had the Bellhaven on tap. That is the smoothest draft I've ever had. It was $5.75 a pint. Garvin internal monlogue went like this: Wow, I can skip the appetizer and get another Bellhaven. And I'd actually be cutting fat!

[Fred Garvin]

Also, the music from the band in the bar was pure hell. These aging hipsters were rocking out. The band opened with "Helplessly hoping" and it went downhill from there. Upon leaving I grabbed a piss mint and headed for the door. It was then that I saw some leathery cougars singing the refrain "ride my seesaw."

[Fred Garvin]

43 buds x 12 oz= 516 ounces (4 gallons) of bud x 5% alcohol = 25.8 oz alcohol
43 shots (1.5oz) dry gin = 64.5 oz (2 quarts) of gin x 40% alcohol = 25.8 oz alcohol.

64.5 oz gin @ 64 cals per ounce = 4,128 calories, or 1878 less per week than bud. 97,656 less calories in a year, or 32.5 lbs.

(note that I've seen various sites list 80 proof as anywhere from 64 to 81 calories per ounce)

yours is a system that presupposes self-discipline. Garvin liquor consumption was one that lended itself to stiffer poors as the night went on. This meant my stiffest drinks were the ones before turning in for the evening. This is a recipe for disaster. I much prefer the equiportionate system afforded by beer.

Also, I much prefer beer went out on the town and knowing I have to get back home. I remember when my brother was on the Atkins diet and drinking hard liquor. What a menace to society that guy was.

[Kahns Krazy]

I was in Liquor Direct in Covington tonight. They have cases of the Sam Adams summer mix for $10.99. 4 each of Boston Lager, Light, Summer Ale, Blackberry Wit, Hefeweizen and Pale Ale. I'm not expecting much from the blackberry wit. The last variety pack I got had the cranberry lambic. I still have a couple of those left. Not my favorite.

They also had cases of Pyramid Hefe and some sort of Apricot something, the Magic Hat summer brew, and some Bartles and James Sangria and Mojito's. All $10.99 per case.

[Kahns Krazy]

Of course, those were all warm, so I'm sipping on the Harpoon Leviathan IPA. A whopping 122 IBU's and 10% ABV. Good hoppiness to this one all the way through.

[Kahns Krazy]

The Sierra Nevada Torpedo has been my go-to for the last month. Really, an all around great beer at a reasonable price point.

[sylvester]

Sam Adams - Blackberry Witbier (sp?)

Had this weekend for the first time and was very surprised on the initial drink. Very satisfied and will be stocking up on some warm cases for later consumption.

[Kahns Krazy]

Sam Adams - Blackberry Witbier (sp?)

Had this weekend for the first time and was very surprised on the initial drink. Very satisfied and will be stocking up on some warm cases for later consumption.

Had the Blackberry as part of a summer variety pack. After that Cranberry Lambic garbage, I was not at all looking forward to the Blackberry, but like you, I was pleasantly surprised. It's a bit fruity and a bit sweet, but neither was overpowering. I'll certainly finish those, as opposed to those Lambics that just mock me from the bottom shelf of the beer fridge.

[Kahns Krazy]

Hit the Party Source on Friday for some beers. I wish I still had the same taste in beer that i had in college, at least as far as my wallet is concerned. 4 six packs and a 4-pack = $45.

[Xman95]

Don't know if this has been posted yet, but Post Road Pumpkin Ale is pretty good. I saw it at the store and figured I would give it a shot. I can't say it's the best pumpkin ale I have ever had, but I like it.

Speaking of pumpkin, nobody does it like those in the hills of Kentucky. They love to pump kin. (Lame, I know.)

[Kahns Krazy]

The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is back on tap in the Code Room.

[Muskie]

I may need to pick some up on my way into or out of town.

[pickledpigsfeet]

If you're a fan of Fat Tire, a decent substitute if you can't find it is either Negro Modelo or Bohemia, both Mexican beers. Just an FYI.

[Kahns Krazy]

I've heard some rumors that New Belgium may be looking to expand distribution locally.

[Smails]

I think Sam Adams needs a bridge between Octoberfest and the Winter lager. I'm not ready to start on the winter beers yet. That might have something to do with the fact that is was close to 75 degrees at the game on Sunday..

[Kahns Krazy]

I had that thought about the fall beers. I made my own bridge out of hard liquor. I'm not sure how well that worked out for me.

[pizza delivery]

Seekers will find this a worthy quest:

http://www.redhook.com/resources/16-ImageResource.gif

Probably a voyage to Kroger would yield success.

[X Factor]

Just tried an "Old 21" from The Brew Kettle, a brewery located in Strongsville, OH. I bought a bomber for 5.99 at Belmont Party Supply in Dayton.

It is an Imperial IPA (Double IPA). It is 9.0% ABV and 90 IBU's.

Hop Bomb! Loved it. I'll be buying this again.

[coasterville95]

This may help take your mind off this weekend's losses in more ways than one -

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091130/BIZ/91130007/1055/NEWS/New+beer+so+strong++it+s+illegal

Something like 27% ABV, but at $150 a bottle, out of my league, besides you can't buy it in Ohio.

[Juice]

This may help take your mind off this weekend's losses in more ways than one -

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20091130/BIZ/91130007/1055/NEWS/New+beer+so+strong++it+s+illegal

Something like 27% ABV, but at $150 a bottle, out of my league, besides you can't buy it in Ohio.

Party Source will have it I am sure.

I hate living in Ohio.

[Muskie]

I am debating picking up some Utopia... but I bet I will flinch before doing it.

I had some SN Celebration this weekend. Not as good as I remember from last year.

[X Factor]

So what's everybody been drinking over the holidays or what do you plan to drink for New Year's?

I've got a 750ml bottle of Alesmith's Speedway Stout ready, along with a bottle of Bell's Third Coast Old Ale (barleywine) and Dogfish Head's Palo Santo Marron (american strong ale).

I might pick up a bottle of Rochefort Trappistes 10. I've been wanting to try this one for a long time. It's about 5 bucks for a 12 oz bottle though.

[X Factor]

How does this thread keeping falling off the first page? That is not acceptable.

Bell's Hopslam is out and I'm loving it this year! What a great Double IPA. Had it on tap about a week ago and it was amazing. Also, just picked up a six pack of fresh Troeg's Nugget Nectar. Wow, fantastic IPA.

[Cheesehead]

Ok, so where's the best place in town to buy specialty/craft beers? I'm in West Chester area. I have been out to Jungle Jim's but have not been to Party Source in a long, long time.

[msj61]

Ok, so where's the best place in town to buy specialty/craft beers? I'm in West Chester area. I have been out to Jungle Jim's but have not been to Party Source in a long, long time.

I prefer "Party Town" in Florence. They have 12 taps on their growler station and one of them is their homebrew "Rye 75" (very similar to Founders Red Rye). They had Hopslam and Dreadnaught on tap a couple weeks back. I'd say their singles selection is on par w/ Party Source and much better than the Jungle.

[Kahns Krazy]

Keep in mind that beer distribution is often by state. As impressive as the Party Source selection is, there are beers I can get at the Biggs at Skytop that I can't get at Party Source. Jungle Jim's has a decent selection too. If you're looking to browse, it's hard to beat the Party Source. If you're looking for a certian brew, I'd call around.

I currently have an empty rental unit, which has put me on a much tighter budget than usual. I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger on a six of the hopslam, even though I want it.

[X Factor]

I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger on a six of the hopslam, even though I want it.

I know what you mean. I bought a six pack of Hopslam for 17.99! That will be my Hopslam fix for the year though.

I did have one on tap about a week ago and it was nectar from the gods.

I've got a 22 oz. bomber of Stone Double Bastard in the fridge which I will be enjoying tonight during the game.

[bobbiemcgee]

Like my Maharaja out here in Denver. We have a ton of breweries.

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/30/22352

[Kahns Krazy]

I like beer.

I'm getting dragged to Terry's Turf Club tonight. It's easier when I know ahead of time to prepare for the wait. I'm going to diffuse it by focusing on the excellent beer selection Terry keeps in those retro coolers.

[msj61]

I like beer.

I'm getting dragged to Terry's Turf Club tonight. It's easier when I know ahead of time to prepare for the wait. I'm going to diffuse it by focusing on the excellent beer selection Terry keeps in those retro coolers.

I know Terry's has the new Sam Adams seasonal, Noble Pils, on tap. Sounds intriguing...anyone had this yet?

I actually really liked the SA White Ale. Hate to see it go:(

[nuts4xu]

Like my Maharaja out here in Denver.

I imagine you do. Nice they legalized the stuff in Denver. I also think it was a good idea to legalize paraphernalia in Breckenridge. Very good move by the voting public in the great state of Colorado.

[Kahns Krazy]

I wound up at Gordo's. Good burger, fair price, nice beer list. I had the Dogfish Palo Santo featured in the article linked in the first post of this thread. A brown ale that packs a 12% abv punch. A great beer if you're only having one beer. I can't imagine more than that.

[Cheesehead]

I have heard Gordo's has really good burgers. In fact, one of my friend's Dad told me today he thought they were better than (gasp) Zips. Anyone vouch for this? I will have to check out Gordo's before the season is over.

[bobbiemcgee]

http://www.thebeerblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/img00136-21.jpg
I imagine you do. Nice they legalized the stuff in Denver. I also think it was a good idea to legalize paraphernalia in Breckenridge. Very good move by the voting public in the great state of Colorado.

I was talking about the beer......but weed is readily available also

[Kahns Krazy]

I have heard Gordo's has really good burgers. In fact, one of my friend's Dad told me today he thought they were better than (gasp) Zips. Anyone vouch for this? I will have to check out Gordo's before the season is over.

The Zipburger for me is related to far too many good times to compare other burgers too objectively. I love the Zipburger.

Gordo's served up some very, very good burgers when we were there Friday. I would very highly recommend it. I got the Gordo burger which came with boursin cheese and some other toppings. It's a bit much. It was good, but there was actually too much boursin cheese (and I love the stuff). The girl got the regular "pub" burger, and it was excellent. I will order the regular burger with bacon next time.

I was there with a non-native Cincinnatian who said he preferred his burger to a zipburger. I believe all of the Gordo burgers actually have some chopped bacon mixed in with the ground beef.


Getting back on subject, and the actual reason I came to the thread - Biggs, at least the one by me, currently has the 90-minute at $8.99 a four pack, which is as low as I've ever seen it. Yum.

[danaandvictory]

I have heard Gordo's has really good burgers. In fact, one of my friend's Dad told me today he thought they were better than (gasp) Zips. Anyone vouch for this? I will have to check out Gordo's before the season is over.

Affirmed. The dude that runs the place I believe used to work for Jean-Robert. They have a great selection of burgers from the standard pub burger to more eclectic selections, all of which are excellent. (My favorite is the Gordo Burger.) As KK noted, the price is eminently reasonable, they have a nice beer selection and it's a nice, laid back atmosphere.

Some friends and I have done the 'burger tour' of the Tri-State and Gordo's is my favorite burger in town. Better burger and better value than Zip's.

[nuts4xu]

Where is Gordo's? Never heard of it, sounds awesome.

I drove through downtown Mason yesterday and noticed the new Quatman Cafe is now open. I think I know where I am going for lunch.

I love beer. (Just to keep this post on topic).

[danaandvictory]

Where is Gordo's? Never heard of it, sounds awesome.

http://www.gordospub.com

Located at 4328 Montgomery Road, maybe a mile north of Dana Ave.

[American X]

Like my Maharaja out here in Denver. We have a ton of breweries.

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/30/22352


I imagine you do. Nice they legalized the stuff in Denver. I also think it was a good idea to legalize paraphernalia in Breckenridge. Very good move by the voting public in the great state of Colorado.


http://www.thebeerblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/img00136-21.jpg

I was talking about the beer......but weed is readily available also

Hilarious and fitting, dude (cough).

[Kahns Krazy]

Enjoying a Sammy Smith IPA. A little less bold than some other IPA's I like, but a pretty good beer anyway.

[Emp]

I threw a party Saturday afternoon down at Findlay Market, and was going to get something in a small keg for the beer drinkers, when I came upon a nice little find at the wine shop on the north side of the market.

There were small gallon+ "kegs" (aka "growlers") of Bell's Two-Hearted Ale available. I bought two, and they were a big hit. IPA style from Bell's in Kalamazoo. Named for the Hemmingway short story. Nice old style fish on the keg.

Besides wine, there is a pretty good selection of craft and imported beers.

[msj61]

I threw a party Saturday afternoon down at Findlay Market, and was going to get something in a small keg for the beer drinkers, when I came upon a nice little find at the wine shop on the north side of the market.

There were small gallon+ "kegs" (aka "growlers") of Bell's Two-Hearted Ale available. I bought two, and they were a big hit. IPA style from Bell's in Kalamazoo. Named for the Hemmingway short story. Nice old style fish on the keg.

Besides wine, there is a pretty good selection of craft and imported beers.

2 Hearted is phenomenal! My favorite IPA. Actually, is there anything that Bells makes that isn't good? I know City View Tavern has it on tap.

A new beer that I had recently was something called "Raging Bitch", by Flying Dog. Had it on tap at Gordo's. I usually hate Flying Dog stuff, but this was fantastic. It's a Belgian IPA. It sort of tastes like someone took a Chimay White and mixed it with a 2 Hearted. Highly recommended!

[American X]

There were small gallon+ "kegs" (aka "growlers") of Bell's Two-Hearted Ale available. I bought two, and they were a big hit. IPA style from Bell's in Kalamazoo. Named for the Hemmingway short story. Nice old style fish on the keg.

Do you mean this attached picture below?

I have wanted to pull the trigger on one of these badboys for a while. Last Saturday in the liquor store, I figured the really big game this weekend, Xavier at Florida, followed by the Superbowl would do nicely. Upon further review, I may have flipped my weekends. Nevertheless, undeterred I will tackle this beast this weekend.

Delicious beer, wonderful brewery, great packaging, beautiful story.

[American X]

As long as I am uploading beer pictures, on the East Coast I had the outstanding Troeg's Hopback. You keep trying beers until you find the ones that stops you in your tracks. This one floored me. Making a very hoppy beer is one thing, but bringing out the nuanced flavors and finding that right balance is another. Harrisburg PA brewery so not sure if they distribute beyond the mid-Atlantic. Highly recommend.

[paulxu]

21 pages, 205 posts, hundreds of views............all about beer!

Freaking awesome.

[Emp]

American X, exactly. half of the second keg is in my refrig for libations on Sunday. Latercomes will have to fend.

[Kahns Krazy]

I made the mistake of starting out a heavy drinking night with a couple Hopslams Friday night. It turned into a blackout night that I'm just now fully recovered from .

However, I can comment that the Hopslam is a great beer, but a bit too flowery for me. I like my double IPAs hoppy and crisp, more like the dogfish and victory variations.

[Xman95]

I made the mistake of starting out a heavy drinking night with a couple Hopslams Friday night. It turned into a blackout night that I'm just now fully recovered from .

And one of your first actions is to post here about. That's a devoted XH'er!

[coasterville95]

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I am usually a Guiness drinker, though I have also had Harp and Murphy's. Last night I was introduced to Smithwicks.

I must say I really liked it!

[Kahns Krazy]

Like my Maharaja out here in Denver. We have a ton of breweries.

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/30/22352

I was in the party source last night. I was ready to pull the trigger on the 120-minute, but they were out of it, so I grabbed the Maharaja. If I get to a point in my life that $8.29 isn't too much for a 22 oz beer, this may be all I ever drink. An outstanding beverage all around.

I love re-reading this thread.

[Pluto]

For everyone in Chicago there is a new-ish local brewer - Half Acre Beer. Their brewery is in Lincoln Square and they give free tours with pitchers of beer included. Very cool guys and great beers. They are still small (15 barrell brewery) but are sold around Chicago and in bars. Big fan of their Ginger Twin and Over Ale but really I haven't been disappointed by any of the ones I have tried.

http://www.halfacrebeer.com

[Kahns Krazy]

For everyone in Chicago there is a new-ish local brewer - Half Acre Beer. Their brewery is in Lincoln Square and they give free tours with pitchers of beer included. Very cool guys and great beers. They are still small (15 barrell brewery) but are sold around Chicago and in bars. Big fan of their Ginger Twin and Over Ale but really I haven't been disappointed by any of the ones I have tried.

http://www.halfacrebeer.com

Earlier in the thread I mentioned the Half Acre Daisy Cutter that I had up there at the Hopleaf. I will put the brewery tour on my list of things to do next time I'm there.

[Pluto]

Earlier in the thread I mentioned the Half Acre Daisy Cutter that I had up there at the Hopleaf. I will put the brewery tour on my list of things to do next time I'm there.

You just need to send them an email before to get on the list for the tour. The tour is getting more popular so you might want to contact them a couple weeks in advance to be safe.

[Nigel Tufnel]

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I am usually a Guiness drinker, though I have also had Harp and Murphy's. Last night I was introduced to Smithwicks.

I must say I really liked it!

I'm going to have to go ahead and be a beer snob here, coasterville. If you like to drink stouts, there is an entire world out there beyond Guiness waiting for you....a much, much better world.

Try an Imperial Stout...more taste, more alcohol and, in my opinion, Guiness doesn't even qualify as a stout compared to these beers.

Stone Russian Imperial Stout, Great Divide Yeti Imperial Stout, Victory Storm King Imperial Stout, New Holland Night Tripper, Bear Republic Black Bear Stout, Great Lakes Blackout Stout and Alesmith Speedway Stout.....give any of them a shot and it may very well change your views on Guiness.

Of course, Guiness is a very light beer with low calories and a low alcohol content...so if that's what you're looking for in a beer and why Guiness is your favorite, disregard everything I wrote above.

[Kahns Krazy]

No beer talk?

[Muskie]

I stopped at Belmont Party Supply this weekend and picked up a sixer of Nugget Nectar (Troeg's) and Great Lakes' Commodore Perry IPA. The nugget nectar was good so far (though a bit overhyped). haven't tried the IPA yet.

[Kahns Krazy]

Let me know what you think about the Commodore Perry. I like the Great Lakes brewery, and I think the IPA is one of their weakest offerings. It's not bad, it just doesn't deliver like the rest of their brews do, in my opinion.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I stopped at Belmont Party Supply this weekend and picked up a sixer of Nugget Nectar (Troeg's) and Great Lakes' Commodore Perry IPA. The nugget nectar was good so far (though a bit overhyped). haven't tried the IPA yet.

Next time you need to resupply, if you haven't tried in before, give Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA a shot. Very smooth IPA....I hadn't had it for a while and bought a six pack this weekend to drink while watching golf. I had forgotten just how good it is. Better than Commodore Perry in my opinion, but Commodore Perry is a pretty good beer.

[Muskie]

Next time you need to resupply, if you haven't tried in before, give Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA a shot. Very smooth IPA....I hadn't had it for a while and bought a six pack this weekend to drink while watching golf. I had forgotten just how good it is. Better than Commodore Perry in my opinion, but Commodore Perry is a pretty good beer.

I find GLBC beers to be more mellow than other similar offerings. I really wanted to get some Holy Moses, but it wasn't available. I'll have a commodore in a bit and let you know.

[Muskie]

So I'm halfway through right now... it's ok... but Ive had better IPA's.

[Muskie91]

Anyone on the west coast get your hands on one of these yet?


"Every beer begins its existence as a barley soup, but the adage "too many cooks spoil the broth" doesn't necessarily apply to brewers.

Collaboration is the hot new trend among America's specialty beermakers. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in Chico, Calif., just released Fritz and Ken's Ale, the first in a series of one-time-only releases to celebrate the brewery's 30th birthday. The brew is a joint effort between Sierra Nevada founder and president Ken Grossman and Fritz Maytag, president of San Francisco's Anchor Brewing Co. It's an imperial stout, a style neither of these gentlemen has ever tried his hand at.

Fritz and Ken's Ale comes in a 750-mililiter cork-and-wire-cage bottle that retails for $10 to $15. It is ebony-colored, with a clingy, cocoa-colored head that almost reminds you of that old breakfast drink Ovaltine. It's got an aroma full of bittersweet chocolate and leafy hops, and a big, roasty flavor that stops just short of being ashy, with notes of licorice and burnt molasses. The 9 percent alcohol-by-volume content remains unobtrusive.

Sierra Nevada will follow up in May with Charlie, Fred and Ken's Lager, described as an "Imperial Helles Lager." Imagine a golden bock beer similar to Sierra Nevada's Glissade Bock, but with considerably more body and alcohol. Assisting Grossman will be homebrew pioneers Charlie Papazian (president of the Brewers Association and author of "The Complete Joy of Homebrewing") and Fred Eckhardt (columnist for All About Beer magazine and author of "Treatise on Lager Beers: How to Make Good Beer at Home").

In mid-July, Sierra Nevada will debut Jack and Ken's Ale, a joint effort with Jack McAuliffe, who built the first from-the-ground-up microbrewery, New Albion Brewing Co., in 1977. A modern-day Moses, McAuliffe pointed the way but never entered the promised land himself. His brewery folded in 1983 and he exited the industry. Jack and Ken's Ale, an American-style barleywine, will be his first professional brewing effort in more than a quarter-century.

Meanwhile, Boston Beer Co. chairman Jim Koch has been conferring with the world's oldest brewery, Weihenstephan in Freising (est. 1040), to craft an entirely new style of beer. The wheat-based brew, yet unnamed, will follow the dictates of Germany's Reinheitsgebot (beer purity law), promises Koch. He describes it as high in alcohol yet champagne-like and light on the palate -- quite different from a traditional German double bock. Look for its release in November.

Stone Brewing Co. in Escondido, Calif., is joining forces with two of the East Coast's most innovative craft brewers (Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Del. and Victory Brewing Co. in Downingtown, Pa.) to make Saison du BUFF, an ale spiced with parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. "Those herbs really work well together," says Stone president and chief executive Greg Koch, who helped brew the maiden batch in early March. Dogfish Head and Victory will do separate versions of the recipe.(Check here for a release schedule.)

One of the more interesting team-ups first took place in 2001, when Adam Avery of Avery Brewing Co. in Boulder, Colo., and Vinnie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing Co. in Santa Rosa, Calif., discovered that both were making a beer named Salvation. But there was no overlap in marketing territory, and "we realized that neither of us had any issue with it," says Avery.

So instead of unleashing the lawyers, the two brewers decided to create a new brew by blending their respective beers: Avery's is a hoppy, golden ale, Cilurzo's is darker, more in the style of a Belgian dubbel. (Read here for the full story.) Batch #4 of Collaboration Not Litigation was released this past winter.

Not all collaborations pan out well enough to be worth a second batch. Life and Limb, for example, the strong ale with birch syrup that Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head whipped up last year, drew some brickbats as well as raves on the online rating guide BeerAdvocate.com, with some purchasers finding it a little underwhelming for the price.

"It takes time after time to refine a recipe," says Bill Metzger, who publishes American Brewer magazine and the Brewing News. "I'll take a beer that's tweaked to perfection any day." But he admits that collaborations are "a great marketing tool and also help with camaraderie."

According to industry consultant Bump Williams, the smaller breweries have a knack for working together to grow the craft beer category as a whole, operating on the assumption that a rising tide will float all boats.

Big beermakers such as Anheuser-Busch, Miller and Coors, on the other hand, are constantly "cutting each other's throats to see who can go up half a share point."

Can you imagine these corporate behemoths collaborating on a beer?

Actually, something like that did happen 25 years ago. Coors, Molson and Germany's Kaltenberg Brewery pooled their efforts to formulate a beer called Masters III, which was marketed out of Reston and tested in four cities, including Washington. The intent was to produce a domestic beer with the fuller body of an import. According to Philip Van Munching's book Beer Blast, the new beer pleased no one. It was too heavy for Coors drinkers, too light for import fans, and the plug was yanked after nine months.

Basically, the beer was a Michelob/Beck's/Heineken clone, not far enough outside the mainstream to justify the hype or extra price.

You can't say that about Fritz and Ken's Ale."

[Kahns Krazy]

So I'm halfway through right now... it's ok... but Ive had better IPA's.

Kind of my take on it. It's not a bad beer, and if it wasn't a GL offering, or if it wasn't an IPA, I wouldn't be so "meh" on it.

[nuts4xu]

Of course, Guiness is a very light beer with low calories and a low alcohol content...so if that's what you're looking for in a beer and why Guiness is your favorite, disregard everything I wrote above.

This right here shows how much you know about beer. When I am speaking with the average Bud Light drinker about beer, and the conversation turns to Guiness, it is very common to hear them say "it's too heavy" or "it is as thick as motor oil".

People are surprised to learn that ounce per ounce, Guiness has fewer calories than skim milk. I have also long proclaimed there is "no buzz" in Guiness.

It's not my favorite, but I do love the beer and enjoy a pint of Guiness from time to time. But the fact remains, it is not the typcial stout and is very different than stouts you try from craft breweries.

[msj61]

I'm going to have to go ahead and be a beer snob here, coasterville. If you like to drink stouts, there is an entire world out there beyond Guiness waiting for you....a much, much better world.

Try an Imperial Stout...more taste, more alcohol and, in my opinion, Guiness doesn't even qualify as a stout compared to these beers.

Stone Russian Imperial Stout, Great Divide Yeti Imperial Stout, Victory Storm King Imperial Stout, New Holland Night Tripper, Bear Republic Black Bear Stout, Great Lakes Blackout Stout and Alesmith Speedway Stout.....give any of them a shot and it may very well change your views on Guiness.

Of course, Guiness is a very light beer with low calories and a low alcohol content...so if that's what you're looking for in a beer and why Guiness is your favorite, disregard everything I wrote above.

Nice call on those stouts Nigel! Blackout Stout is one of my favorites. Some others you might like are: Bells Kalamazoo Stout, Brooklyn's Black Chocolate Stout, and if you like sweet stouts, you should give Left Hand Milk Stout a try. Actually, if anyone is just getting into stouts, LH Milk Stout is VERY novice friendly.

[dc_x]

It's not my favorite, but I do love the beer and enjoy a pint of Guiness from time to time. But the fact remains, it is not the typcial stout and is very different than stouts you try from craft breweries.

To clarify, Guinness is a dry stout and a pretty good dry stout. The other stouts mentioned are different styles of stouts.

It's not fair to compare Stone's Russian Imperial Stout to a Guinness...that's like comparing a Sierra Nevada Pale Ale to a Stone Ruination Ale. They are meant to be totally different styles of beer.

[Emp]

The beer thread is among the things that may be noted at my funeral.

I have not been to this thread much for basketball season, but am more than satisfied with its continuing high quality.

I would like to hear some opinions on porters, much more the workingman's drink during the 19th century and well into mid 20th century. What's local to the midwest worth sampling these days?

I say this from the perspective of my personal beer criteria:

Local before distant.
Draft before bottled before cans before plastic before light.

[Pluto]

The beer thread is among the things that may be noted at my funeral.

I have not been to this thread much for basketball season, but am more than satisfied with its continuing high quality.

I would like to hear some opinions on porters, much more the workingman's drink during the 19th century and well into mid 20th century. What's local to the midwest worth sampling these days?

I say this from the perspective of my personal beer criteria:

Local before distant.
Draft before bottled before cans before plastic before light.

With the lining in cans now allowing the beer not to be tainted or be affected by light (also more eco friendly if you are into that) many more microbrewers are going to make the switch from bottle to can.

Props on starting this thread...it makes the offseason/slow days go by much faster.

[Muskie]

With the lining in cans now allowing the beer not to be tainted or be affected by light (also more eco friendly if you are into that) many more microbrewers are going to make the switch from bottle to can.

Props on starting this thread...it makes the offseason/slow days go by much faster.

Seriously? I enjoy bottles way more than cans.

[Kahns Krazy]

With the lining in cans now allowing the beer not to be tainted or be affected by light (also more eco friendly if you are into that) many more microbrewers are going to make the switch from bottle to can.

Props on starting this thread...it makes the offseason/slow days go by much faster.

I second Muskie's surprise. My understanding is that canning equipment is far more expensive than bottling equipment, so it doesn't make much sense to me that the microbreweries will switch to cans.

Are there examples of mircos that have already switch? I can't recall seeing one.

This sounds to me like the talk 15 years ago that napa valley was going to boxes for wine instead of bottles.

[Muskie]

I second Muskie's surprise. My understanding is that canning equipment is far more expensive than bottling equipment, so it doesn't make much sense to me that the microbreweries will switch to cans.

Are there examples of mircos that have already switch? I can't recall seeing one.

This sounds to me like the talk 15 years ago that napa valley was going to boxes for wine instead of bottles.

Sun King (which is a relatively new brewery in Indy) went straight to cans. They are close enough I can get a growler though, so I've not tried their two week old can offerings (they've been canning for two weeks). I will get some for the Indy 500.

[Pluto]

I second Muskie's surprise. My understanding is that canning equipment is far more expensive than bottling equipment, so it doesn't make much sense to me that the microbreweries will switch to cans.

Are there examples of mircos that have already switch? I can't recall seeing one.

This sounds to me like the talk 15 years ago that napa valley was going to boxes for wine instead of bottles.

I attended parts of the Craft Brewers Conference that was in Chicago earlier this month. One of the sessions I attended was all about the bottle/can debate. A handful of brewers I talked to at the bar either were putting in canning lines or were considering it. The point was with the lining cans protect the beer better than bottles do and are easier for people to carry around. I don't know if it will catch on or not but don't be suprised if you see more cans.

[Muskie]

I attended parts of the Craft Brewers Conference that was in Chicago earlier this month. One of the sessions I attended was all about the bottle/can debate. A handful of brewers I talked to at the bar either were putting in canning lines or were considering it. The point was with the lining cans protect the beer better than bottles do and are easier for people to carry around. I don't know if it will catch on or not but don't be suprised if you see more cans.

I'm all for cans in addition to bottles. I don't want to see brewers drop bottles entirely in favor of cans.

[msj61]

The beer thread is among the things that may be noted at my funeral.

I have not been to this thread much for basketball season, but am more than satisfied with its continuing high quality.

I would like to hear some opinions on porters, much more the workingman's drink during the 19th century and well into mid 20th century. What's local to the midwest worth sampling these days?
I say this from the perspective of my personal beer criteria:

Local before distant.
Draft before bottled before cans before plastic before light.

Here are 3 suggestions:
1) Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald
2) Founders Porter
3) 3 Floyds Alpha Klaus (can't get 3 Floyds in OH yet...just KY and IN)

[Nigel Tufnel]

Here are 3 suggestions:
1) Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald
2) Founders Porter
3) 3 Floyds Alpha Klaus (can't get 3 Floyds in OH yet...just KY and IN)

I used to get Three Floyds beers at River's Bend Wine & Spirits and at the Centerville Carryout....haven't really paid attention lately....did they use to sell them in Ohio and recently quit or something?

Isn't it about the time of year when Two Brothers releases HopJuice? Mmmmm....HopJuice. If anyone sees it when they are out shopping, please let me know. I like to get as many bottles as I can before they're sold out for the year.

[Muskie]

I used to get Three Floyds beers at River's Bend Wine & Spirits and at the Centerville Carryout....haven't really paid attention lately....did they use to sell them in Ohio and recently quit or something?

Isn't it about the time of year when Two Brothers releases HopJuice? Mmmmm....HopJuice. If anyone sees it when they are out shopping, please let me know. I like to get as many bottles as I can before they're sold out for the year.

I believe Three Floyds stopped selling in Ohio about three years ago. Also if you like Two Brothers I would also recommend Cane & Ebel.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I believe Three Floyds stopped selling in Ohio about three years ago. Also if you like Two Brothers I would also recommend Cane & Ebel.

Gotcha...now that I think about it, I haven't seen Three Floyds lately. I like Cane & Ebel, but if I'm going to get a rye beer, I much prefer Hop Rod Rye. Its less expensive, has a higher ABV and in my opinion, is hoppier and smoother.

Have you ever had Two Brother's HopJuice? Great beer.

[Emp]

Here are 3 suggestions:
1) Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald
2) Founders Porter
3) 3 Floyds Alpha Klaus (can't get 3 Floyds in OH yet...just KY and IN)

Ive had the Ed Fitz, and enjoy it, but like options, so thanks for those two references. Great Lakes does a really nice job all around.

The idea of a lined can still doesn't appeal to me. True glass will admit light, which along with heat is the enemy of all beer. That's why I like to start with draft from a local brewery, with bottled local a good second choice, since it reduces the exposure to heat and light before I purchase from a local cooler. Purchasing a 24 box of Little Kings at the old Central Parkway dock and transferring directly to an ice chest was the essence of a hot summer afternoon for me for many years.

Imagine the days when clay bottles were the only alternatives to draft. In the 80s Schoenling and the Lichtendahls started the 14K races in Over the Rhine, and gave some very old Christian Moerlein clay bottles as prizes. Lifting a case of full clay bottles was roughly equivalent of hoisting a half barrel.

I got stuck in France for two weeks right after 9-11, and had to hang out in bistros, whereupon I became a big Stella fan. It's getting a good distribution, but is it being produced here or imported?

[Kahns Krazy]

I was looking for a little change of pace and went with the Sierra Nevada Bigfoot barleywine style. Man, i like this brew. 9.2%, 90 IBUs, it hits the same spot as a lot of the IIPA's at a much lower price point.

Sierra Nevada is an outstanding brewery.

I also saw that Dog Fish Head has a barleywine style out. It comes in at a whopping 15% ABV and I saw it for $16 for a 4-pack.

[Muskie]

Gotcha...now that I think about it, I haven't seen Three Floyds lately. I like Cane & Ebel, but if I'm going to get a rye beer, I much prefer Hop Rod Rye. Its less expensive, has a higher ABV and in my opinion, is hoppier and smoother.

Have you ever had Two Brother's HopJuice? Great beer.

I don't think we get Hop Rod Rye here in Indiana. Also I believe Cane & Ebel is cheaper here in Indiana than Ohio.

I do like Hop Juice. However, by this time in the year, I'm hopped out on supper hoppy beers. It get's overlooked by me unfortunately.

[pickledpigsfeet]

I second Muskie's surprise. My understanding is that canning equipment is far more expensive than bottling equipment, so it doesn't make much sense to me that the microbreweries will switch to cans.

Are there examples of mircos that have already switch? I can't recall seeing one.

This sounds to me like the talk 15 years ago that napa valley was going to boxes for wine instead of bottles.

The line may initially be more expensive to out in for cans but the long term costs are a savings and the price fluctuations with cans are much lower than glass, which is getting ready to ramp up in price again. Also, with cans, you don't need labeling equipment or labels, which is another savings (and hurts my business).

That said, look for companies who stay in glass, especially these smaller micros and 2nd tier breweries to upscale their packaging a bit as they cut back advertising costs.

[Kahns Krazy]

Maybe. If I were a betting man, I would bet that micro's stay overwhelminlgy bottles though. There's a perception issue that can beer = cheap beer just like box wine = cheap wine, despite all of the evidence that the box is a better for the wine, cheaper and better for the environment package.

[xu2006]

Maybe. If I were a betting man, I would bet that micro's stay overwhelminlgy bottles though. There's a perception issue that can beer = cheap beer just like box wine = cheap wine, despite all of the evidence that the box is a better for the wine, cheaper and better for the environment package.


What about box beer? http://gizmodo.com/5520413/beer+in+a+box-saves-space-materials-sobriety

[Kahns Krazy]

I don't understand how box beer would work. Beer has to stay under pressure. Box beer is dumb.

[Tardy Turtle]

Curious.

7-Eleven to sell own beer
(http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36671610/ns/business-consumer_news/)

[xu2006]

I don't understand how box beer would work. Beer has to stay under pressure. Box beer is dumb.

From http://www.thisisbrandx.com/2010/04/box-your-beer-and-save-the-planet.html:
Because it's simply more difficult to keep carbonated beer pressurized and oxygen free in large, four-liter containers, according to Thomas Hussey, a recently graduated industrial design student from Australia's University of Technology Sydney... He knew that costly pony kegs were a poor long-term answer in an environmentally conscious world. So he developed Kegless, a workable solution to the boxed beer dilemma.

With a two-pronged focus on cost and environmental impact, Hussey's invention eschews pricier bottles, kegs and cans in favor of a revolutionary collapsible container that maintains the CO2 pressure while barring oxygen.


(http://www.thisisbrandx.com/2010/04/box-your-beer-and-save-the-planet.html)

[Kahns Krazy]

From http://www.thisisbrandx.com/2010/04/box-your-beer-and-save-the-planet.html:
Because it's simply more difficult to keep carbonated beer pressurized and oxygen free in large, four-liter containers, according to Thomas Hussey, a recently graduated industrial design student from Australia's University of Technology Sydney... He knew that costly pony kegs were a poor long-term answer in an environmentally conscious world. So he developed Kegless, a workable solution to the boxed beer dilemma.

With a two-pronged focus on cost and environmental impact, Hussey's invention eschews pricier bottles, kegs and cans in favor of a revolutionary collapsible container that maintains the CO2 pressure while barring oxygen.


(http://www.thisisbrandx.com/2010/04/box-your-beer-and-save-the-planet.html)


mmmmmaybe. I doubt he can combine shelf life pressure retention with collapsible, all while making it better for the environment. Seems like you'd need a fair amount of plastic in there.

This looks more like a very well done science fair project than a viable product.

[Kahns Krazy]

I hit a tasting of the Rivertown Brewery on Friday at Allyn's. They have a decent German style lager (think Hofbrauhaus), a Hefe which is allowed to finish in the bottle, making for a lot of carbonation, A Wit (I think this was seasonal) that was a good summer (citrusy/spicy) beer, a Pale Ale called Hop Bomber, which is a horrible name for this beer, as it really isn't all that hoppy, and a stout, which isn't my favorite style, but was pretty tasty. Most of the stout lovers there really seemed to enjoy it.

I like supporting the local brewers. I hope we get more, so we can get some variety. Rivertown seems like the Lockland version of Mount Carmel brewing. It would be really cool if the return of Moerlein to the brewery district would spawn some new micros down there as well.

[Kahns Krazy]

So continuing my own personal beer notes thread...

I was back in DEP's (the old Liquor Direct on W 3rd in Covington). They had the Dogfish Head Olde School Barleywine in single bottles. I'm glad I didn't spring the $16 for the 4-pack. I don't think it's possible to hide 15% alcohol in a 'beer'. It was an interesting beer, and at $4 a bottle I don't feel like it was a bad buy, but I probably wouldn't go back to it again. They suggest "cellering" this beer. Thanks, but I like to drink beer, not collect it.

I also grabbed a 6 of the Torpedo. I still can't believe this brew is only $8.49 a six pack.

DEP's also has a new growler station. They currently have 4 taps, two of which are New Holland beers - The Imperial Hatter and the Dragon's Milk. Price is around $11 each for the fill and $2 more for the growler itself. They also seem to have expanded the beer selection in bottles, though much of it is bombers and 750's. I would love to have the budget to be exploring that range of beers.

Still, I think I'll hit the Imperial Hatter at $11 for 64 oz., and based on the recommendation from the staff at DEPs, I'll likely try the Dragon's Milk as well.

[xu2006]

I also grabbed a 6 of the Torpedo. I still can't believe this brew is only $8.49 a six pack.


+1