tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54453635384365326392024-03-18T22:53:09.260-04:00The Belgian WayBelgian Inspired Beer Thoughts...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-55482001195524684162009-02-13T10:24:00.007-05:002010-07-07T04:18:24.613-04:00Winter AwardsI've been able to try a wide variety of styles, and my tastebuds are starting to be confused about what they like more. I decided the only way to settle this would be to hand out some Winter awards based on what I've tried.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.truebeer.com/assets/images/beer-drinking-trophy.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 303px;" /><b><span style="color: #3333ff;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #3333ff;">Best Overall Beer:<br />
</span></b><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/207/645">Trappistes Rochefort 10</a> (Quadrupel, 11.3% abv) - Nathan hooked me up with this as a gift for being in his wedding. Funny enough, I've had this beer once before and thought it was just okay. This time around, it was flat out amazing. Alcohol+figs, raisons, yeast, and candy all put in one beer...fantastic! Rated #1 beer in the world in latest <a href="http://www.stonebrew.com/news/081211/">beer advocate</a> magazine ratings. Who am I to disagree?<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3213/2449581265_b774028245.jpg" style="display: block; height: 500px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 375px;" /><br />
<b><span style="color: #3333ff;">Best Belgian Winter ale:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #3333ff;"></span></b><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557/27667">Canaster Winterscotch Ale</a> (Belgian Strong Dark Ale, 8.7% abv) Went up to brick store for one drink on a random Saturday afternoon and happened to catch this on draught. What an amazing decision that turned out to be. From the <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557">De Glazen Toren</a> brewery that brought us the Cuvee Angelique and the Jan De Lichte. Amazing brewery. Amazing beer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUcrXI2-HDoNWPheVQqoli2Zr4BhNvwLPqu2ItruWA2JCNfrLgUGFurGvVkyNBHIlunZOTIQHT_yIqcMedq8Ahpd5qkHpR0CFnCLm3qwNUx7jOEMjuQQUdz4EbCvcBfxpZqr-CX5hKgU/s1600/canaster-bottle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUcrXI2-HDoNWPheVQqoli2Zr4BhNvwLPqu2ItruWA2JCNfrLgUGFurGvVkyNBHIlunZOTIQHT_yIqcMedq8Ahpd5qkHpR0CFnCLm3qwNUx7jOEMjuQQUdz4EbCvcBfxpZqr-CX5hKgU/s320/canaster-bottle.png" /></a></div><br />
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<div><div><div><div><b><span style="color: #3333ff;">Best Christmas Ale:</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/41/140">Corsendonk Christmas Ale</a> (Belgian Strong Dark Ale, 8.5% abv) I tried them all...St. Bernardus, Scaldis, De Dolle, Delirium, Gouden Carolus to name a few. Corsendonk just seemed to have the perfect blend of sweetness and alcohol making it the smoothest, tastiest thing I tried this winter. Everyone that tried this seemed to rave about it. Well done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOWeuGPzVG2I53YvlY-6KPN_ePqgJgLm9SD-kcFZosTqrsQMHwPKg0jaT2AQk5fbcTLOlQfmy36uM-INGHazpHlo4WFKelzrybMdKqvgD33pLklWw3Nys_xohl4C4J3nUFhn3p0DlLdE/s1600/dsc00976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOWeuGPzVG2I53YvlY-6KPN_ePqgJgLm9SD-kcFZosTqrsQMHwPKg0jaT2AQk5fbcTLOlQfmy36uM-INGHazpHlo4WFKelzrybMdKqvgD33pLklWw3Nys_xohl4C4J3nUFhn3p0DlLdE/s320/dsc00976.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="color: #3333ff;">Ms. Congeniality:</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/285/776">Samichlaus Bier</a> (Doppelbock, 14% abv) Easily the strongest beer I've ever tried. Maybe the most interesting as well, as it seems to taste more like brandy than a beer. It got better with every sweet sip and made me glad I tried it. This Austrian beer is only brewed once per year (December 6th) and is aged for 10 months before bottling. Unique. Perfect choice for Ms. Congeniality.<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3014/2850313999_750bf0f2ab.jpg?v=0" style="display: block; height: 500px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 308px;" /> <b><span style="color: #3333ff;">Most Disappointing:</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/2372/46840">Terrapin Dos Cocoas</a> (American Porter, 5.8% abv) I hate to throw the local brewery under the bus, but this beer just didn't do it for me. Every taste seemed smokier and drier than the last. I kept looking for that cocoa taste to come out...but sadly, it never did. Someone had to win this award, don't feel too bad Terrapin...I'll still drink your other stuff.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1214/841115253_21e9155a6c.jpg" style="display: block; height: 322px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 294px;" /></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-44353825299666647662008-11-17T14:40:00.004-05:002010-07-07T04:17:06.259-04:00A few that have tickled my tastebudsOver the last few months I've had some good beers, none that are worthy of my top 10, but still worthy of a mention. I'd suggest you try these when you get a chance...they all grade out as A's.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://blog.mlive.com/kalamabrew/2008/02/large_Beer_silhouette.jpg" style="display: block; height: 303px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 452px;" /><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/2372/45275">Terrapin Gamma Ray</a> A- (11% abv) This wheatwine made with honey is one of the most unique beers I've ever tried. Easily my favorite Terrapin.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/604/24693">Scaldis Noel Premium</a> A (13% abv) Maybe the most drinkable beer I've ever had that is that high in alcohol. So many different sweet, fruity sensations come out with every sip. This beer is known as Bush De Noel Premium in Europe...Scaldis is an alias.<br />
<div><div><br />
<br />
<div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.belgianfamilybrewers.be/pics/scaldisno.jpg" style="display: block; height: 269px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /></div><br />
<div><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/201/817">De Dolle Still Nacht</a> A (12% abv) This belgian strong dark ale was the first full De Dolle beer I've ever tried (I've had sips of others) and it certainly left a good impression. What a great way to celebrate the Winter approaching. </div></div><br />
<br />
<div><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3OeGXJd5lXA/RvsxGEXHb6I/AAAAAAAAAB8/uIbArLeznK8/s400/Stille1.jpg" style="display: block; height: 256px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/40968">Unibroue 17</a> A- (10% abv) Certainly one of, if not THE best I've had from Unibroue...and that's tough to do. A great mix of sweet and spice make this something I've been craving to get my hands back on. </div><div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3244/2681666252_a9a015a6f7.jpg" style="display: block; height: 500px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 356px;" /><br />
I'll give an honorable mention shout out to a German beer that is pretty easy to find as well (think Kroger).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/142/99">Spaten Optimator</a> </div><div><br />
<div>These are just a few to look out for the next time you are in a place that serves high quality beer. The best news is that most winter seasonals are still yet to be released...so that gives you something to look forward to! </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-8292022178531118832008-10-14T16:35:00.005-04:002010-07-07T04:16:08.106-04:00Seasonal FunWith the falling of the leaves, comes some changes with the beers you see around your neighborhood pubs. No longer do we need those summer ales to refresh us from the heat. What should you be turning to in the mild fall weather?<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://blog.mlive.com/kalamazoo_gazette_extra/2008/05/large_BEER_PINTS.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
From <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/29">Beer Advocate</a>:<br />
<br />
<b><i>"Before refrigeration, it was nearly impossible to brew beer in the summer due to the hot weather and bacterial infections. Brewing ended with the coming of spring, and began again in the fall. Most were brewed in March (Märzen). These brews were kept in cold storage over the spring and summer months, or brewed at a higher gravity, so they’d keep. Märzenbier is full-bodied, rich, toasty, typically dark copper in color with a medium to high alcohol content. The common Munich Oktoberfest beer served at Wies'n (the location at which Munich celebrates its Oktoberfest) contains roughly 5.0-6.0% alcohol by volume, is dark/copper in color, has a mild hop profile and is typically labeled as a Bavarian Märzenbier in style."</i></b><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://my.opera.com/bfdolphin/homes/blog/oktoberfest%2003.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
<div><div><div><div>We made a stop at Brick Store for their Oktoberfest celebration and came across a few "Oktoberfest" beers that were quite tasty. I liked all of them but probably enjoyed them in the following order (of course served in litre mugs):<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/418/32410">Left Hand Oktoberfest</a> B+<br />
<br />
2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/345/1017">Victory Festbier</a> B<br />
<br />
3. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/39/1361">Ayinger Oktober Fest-Marzen</a> B-<br />
<br />
Not into the German stuff? Well, how about a juicy pumpkin shoved in to your beer? </div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/xgrafcorex/beer/IMG_3164.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" />From <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/72">Beer Advocate</a>:<br />
<br />
<b><i>Often released as a fall seasonal, Pumpkin Ales are quite varied. Some brewers opt to add hand-cut pumpkins and drop them in the mash, while others use puree or pumpkin flavoring. These beers also tend to be spiced with pumpkin pie spices, like: ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and all spice. Pumpkin Ales are typically mild, with little to no bitterness, a malty backbone, with some spice often taking the lead. Many will contain a starchy, slightly thick-ish, mouthfeel too. In our opinion, best versions use real pumpkin, while roasting the pumpkin can also add tremendous depth of character for even better results, though both methods are time-consuming and tend to drive brewmasters insane.</i></b><br />
<br />
<div>When I first tried a pumpkin ale last year I wasn't that into it, but I've had two this year that are starting to make a believer out of me.<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10099/6260">Dogfish Head Punkin' Ale</a> B<br />
<br />
2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/45/74">Post Road Pumpkin Ale</a> B </div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.indexinn.com/countries/usa/alabama/pl_images/008-Alabama_Fall_Color_Scenic_Alabama.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
Enjoy your fall, because it won't be long until we'll need some dark, heavy Belgian winter-warmers. That actually doesn't sound bad at all.<br />
<div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-15441890526881382582008-10-06T15:27:00.001-04:002008-10-23T18:08:04.564-04:00Oktoberfest at Brick Store PubThis past weekend we joined some friends at <a href="http://brickstorepub.com/">Brick Store Pub</a> for their annual <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/99/Oktoberfest_bierzelt.JPG">Oktoberfest</a> celebration. I sampled three of their Oktoberfest offerings: the Victory, Left Hand, and the Ayinger. All three of these beers were solid lagers and tasted just like a Märzen should, crisp and toasty. Great beers, great food, with great friends made for a great time. Jarrod will expound on the beers in the next post, but for now, here's some photos:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNRW3Tnz9HO_VxrcoA9DOaKhQjtCMaLGIbxIgzPv4HObOak5ZXeDiC5VjsJtuqU23mUrfmFMBrzO-MtIfaBfaHrgt0rIzDvOv2d00WDZ9Aib_M4YddMG6J7bYcNS8vplNwmEKsKhICIM/s1600-h/bspofest.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNRW3Tnz9HO_VxrcoA9DOaKhQjtCMaLGIbxIgzPv4HObOak5ZXeDiC5VjsJtuqU23mUrfmFMBrzO-MtIfaBfaHrgt0rIzDvOv2d00WDZ9Aib_M4YddMG6J7bYcNS8vplNwmEKsKhICIM/s320/bspofest.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260432596554142242" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Where's Waldo (Jarrod)?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZs5WmIILjCBxAaKDZ3JlVAqlgb7rvPomWIYaC6NGJpXdJflGDvjzYJ22Km1QdXK_53fvWT-lmoF_ijaslqVOD_yOF5XVQNouta9u4HcCub9VjZkkh37Zj7YIO4g51VT_ynTc6YWAhzQ/s1600-h/bspofestsign.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZs5WmIILjCBxAaKDZ3JlVAqlgb7rvPomWIYaC6NGJpXdJflGDvjzYJ22Km1QdXK_53fvWT-lmoF_ijaslqVOD_yOF5XVQNouta9u4HcCub9VjZkkh37Zj7YIO4g51VT_ynTc6YWAhzQ/s320/bspofestsign.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260432895871513042" border="0" /></a><br />BSP Oktoberfest Beer Offerings<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdi9ZKPSKXzjqEyUGjobZn5j6btjmenDpg4gLrUW7zQkFJ47lWF6SGNFMC0YmTlHKc-_Ua4McxQHz_SeWINtzL0DStTe_xn7MR-Dq3K2t5qgJmgSJtxnbe8iVZWbnOlLouILmw1QJvbHY/s1600-h/bspofest2.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdi9ZKPSKXzjqEyUGjobZn5j6btjmenDpg4gLrUW7zQkFJ47lWF6SGNFMC0YmTlHKc-_Ua4McxQHz_SeWINtzL0DStTe_xn7MR-Dq3K2t5qgJmgSJtxnbe8iVZWbnOlLouILmw1QJvbHY/s320/bspofest2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260454632174252626" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">View from our corner booth<br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-65762952538362550992008-09-22T14:55:00.005-04:002010-07-07T05:39:02.264-04:00The Dubbels and Tripels - Glory in a Glass<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOBmAREBSuOEWbPOFk4BcgoJNiDZqhYMOICnJ2bk9IFzGuLnJfa_vmzExUPkxgKagRojX2-yEI7Ke0CB-xF22pEdftAb3yaVgpmdTPP3JHF-yifzGRh51_brbtLl9Z_DOJjRtkHlDSLw/s1600-h/dtopen.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248923098163443746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOBmAREBSuOEWbPOFk4BcgoJNiDZqhYMOICnJ2bk9IFzGuLnJfa_vmzExUPkxgKagRojX2-yEI7Ke0CB-xF22pEdftAb3yaVgpmdTPP3JHF-yifzGRh51_brbtLl9Z_DOJjRtkHlDSLw/s320/dtopen.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a>This goes without saying, but the Belgians got it right when they began brewing beer many a' centuries ago. Three of the greatest (IMO) and most complex styles ever brewed originated in this crazy, <a href="http://mirror.servut.us//kuvat/motivation/waffles.jpg">waffle</a>-loving-land o' plenty.<br />
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It is rumored that when the Trappist monks began brewing beer, they set out to brew three distinctive styles of beer (Enkel, Dubbel, Tripel) to incorporate the symbolism of the Holy Trinity into their beer making. The names also characterized the alcohol present in each style, with Enkels containing the least amount and Tripels being the strongest. Although Enkels are no longer brewed, the symbolism of the Trinity remains present today in several monasteries with the addition of Quadrupel style beers, which categorically just beat out the Tripels, and contain the highest amount of alcohol. Jarrod took care of the monster Quadrupel beers, and now I bring you my favorite Dubbel and Tripel style beers.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/57">Dubbels</a>:<br />
Dubbels are dark in color, and tend to have malt flavors dominating over hops. Whereas the Quadrupels have more of a fruit presence, the Dubbels tend to be a bit spicier with strong caramel flavors. This is very present in the aroma of the beer as well, as Dubbels typically have a warm caramel and brown sugar smell. Some Dubbels have rich creamy heads and others will have little to no head with slight lacing. They can be unpredictable as some breweries balance the flavors perfectly and others brew a very mediocre Dubbel beer. But, man, when they get it right it is an exceptional beer.<br />
<b>Average alcohol by volume (abv) range: 6.5-9.0%</b><br />
<br />
My top 5 Dubbel Beers:<br />
1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/857">Trappist Westvleteren 8</a> - It is hard to describe this beer. Westy's are by far the hardest to get and most sought after beers on the planet. The remarkable part about them is that they live up to the hype. It is by far the best Dubbel and one of the best overall beers known to man.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG48s4nZTuXJ27FQ1B6NEPPiqzZ6d9rDql4Zwjg4e3x2oOLFOP8dsG6bTcJJxE4OYMSmkF8LwEc2iCmf_EbcPZQseE8mWtUKzn6Na-TlXWiJtYfnRoS53axszrOWHICtA9xBfHQAtYczA/s1600-h/westy8.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247398568939626722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG48s4nZTuXJ27FQ1B6NEPPiqzZ6d9rDql4Zwjg4e3x2oOLFOP8dsG6bTcJJxE4OYMSmkF8LwEc2iCmf_EbcPZQseE8mWtUKzn6Na-TlXWiJtYfnRoS53axszrOWHICtA9xBfHQAtYczA/s320/westy8.jpg" style="cursor: pointer;" /></a></div><br />
2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/208/674">Westmalle Trappist Dubbel</a> - This is the best readily available Dubbel. It tends to be pricey (roughly $5/11.2 oz bottle at your local bottle shoppe) but it is well worth it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUva9yn3-fTnuFPUr9_VhNlyPOgSA-lZdjIE5q3Yj6Nw7hav5CxpUpjNHtgkQcRY-_7aotDORABPWsAVrdX8rsq5hW8RwGgIiEJmcCqCWNnxRjEzePGjTRE935Ur0I5DK773OOLzefm94/s1600-h/westmd.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247398014238595970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUva9yn3-fTnuFPUr9_VhNlyPOgSA-lZdjIE5q3Yj6Nw7hav5CxpUpjNHtgkQcRY-_7aotDORABPWsAVrdX8rsq5hW8RwGgIiEJmcCqCWNnxRjEzePGjTRE935Ur0I5DK773OOLzefm94/s320/westmd.jpg" style="cursor: pointer;" /></a></div></div><br />
3. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/41/138">Corsendonk Abbey Brown Ale</a> - Although classified as a Dubbel, it tends to be less complex than some of the others I have tried. That aside, it is incredibly drinkable, very smooth, and just an all around great beer.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VTH6NPWkjQePXrcRGKAu63wq0HbewUuVWAPTI-C7XJnQjQd5JnvP5usz0wzefwPaD8DexqYANZGxrGSq0JraW31fZdMfVxXyFSCtvn7tHSDLnQZU0pxufP5RsHiSam-vLBy_Dv3Ldkw/s1600-h/corsend.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247399335307152434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VTH6NPWkjQePXrcRGKAu63wq0HbewUuVWAPTI-C7XJnQjQd5JnvP5usz0wzefwPaD8DexqYANZGxrGSq0JraW31fZdMfVxXyFSCtvn7tHSDLnQZU0pxufP5RsHiSam-vLBy_Dv3Ldkw/s320/corsend.jpg" style="cursor: pointer;" /></a></div><br />
4. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1855">St. Bernardus Prior 8</a> - Some people debate this beer over its sister, the Pater 6, but for me, the Prior 8 "takes the cake". The Pater has more a sting to it up front whereas the Prior is more balanced and there are so many flavors present in this beer (including some crazy fruit undertones) it's hard to describe it accurately.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-FIm8FyvrBvkOT7AZS2pNbfBBRIO_Mroqy11G1zREtMkQ4Q_MoVRx2QAAeauIqfNS_U3CC63dx7P73exkseftX2294RjDT-f_DPjU4d4HdqC7SnWSlrqoUBa_GfVs4erJMzYl9Q9o9k/s1600-h/stberny8.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247399915475134866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-FIm8FyvrBvkOT7AZS2pNbfBBRIO_Mroqy11G1zREtMkQ4Q_MoVRx2QAAeauIqfNS_U3CC63dx7P73exkseftX2294RjDT-f_DPjU4d4HdqC7SnWSlrqoUBa_GfVs4erJMzYl9Q9o9k/s320/stberny8.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></div><br />
5. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/222/2508">Maredsous 8</a> - I have only tried this beer once, but it was outstanding. I remember thinking it is exactly like a Dubbel should taste. Complex, spicy, dark, manly, etc.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3V19Kmr4G1SSB14ej2cEg8JjcbV6AgIuoE6qHndPgquFAoPYUeVOr8xCXBf_kcrmOb1kOz7uJoXAfOWvKA3M1PXXdFI5LezGkgrC24iCdmVPjyqYmMLcyuV444Sy0zVJsks_613FDJAM/s1600-h/mareds.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247400189271175650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3V19Kmr4G1SSB14ej2cEg8JjcbV6AgIuoE6qHndPgquFAoPYUeVOr8xCXBf_kcrmOb1kOz7uJoXAfOWvKA3M1PXXdFI5LezGkgrC24iCdmVPjyqYmMLcyuV444Sy0zVJsks_613FDJAM/s320/mareds.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/58/">Tripels</a>:<br />
I go back and forth deciding which style of beer is my favorite. One week it is Quadrupels, the next it is Belgian Strong Darks, but the style that remains tried and true for me (and the style I have sampled the most), is the Tripels. The Tripels probably deserve their own blog entry as I could ramble on and on about this style of beer. The beer is so well balanced and perfectly combines everything that is great about beer - malted barley and hops. It tends to be spicy and fruity and hoppy and malty all at once. The appearance of these beers can be quite deceiving to the novice beer drinker as they tend to be lighter in color, and unfortunately many people think the lighter the beer color, the less alcohol. Not true. Although Tripels are typically bright yellow to gold in color, their appearance is distinctly different from say, a pilsner, or lager. Mainly due to the fact that most Tripels are bottle conditioned, making for a cloudy appearance and a slightly different flavor depending on when it is opened/enjoyed. The best beers, after all, are the ones you cannot see through. Speaking of appearance, to me, there is not a beer style that exists that is more pleasing to the eye. When enjoyed in the proper glassware (tulip, snifter, goblet), with that cloudy golden color, and that large white head, it is a site to behold!<br />
<b>Average alcohol by volume (abv) range: 8.0-12.0%</b><br />
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My Top 5 Tripel Beers:<br />
1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/16909">Allagash Curieux</a> - One of the few Tripels I have seen that is not yellow/golden in color. This one is aged in bourbon barrels, which might explain its dark amber color. The bourbon flavor is very present, but unlike bourbon, this does not burn your throat on the way down. It is incredibly smooth and just a crazy hybrid beer. I love it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIam-aRCW-sNSFd3G2VjuXez4Sipfhj1eNsZMAJBQ4kiDCXLyUylv3s6OfOL80tV-YE2rGJbR9EV6XDhCDoTvDJYFKR63g0cK2jIuZZa7WA8c9pqrK-2geDOx13EIjalCgm_PYPElrEc/s1600-h/allacur.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247404661399206018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIam-aRCW-sNSFd3G2VjuXez4Sipfhj1eNsZMAJBQ4kiDCXLyUylv3s6OfOL80tV-YE2rGJbR9EV6XDhCDoTvDJYFKR63g0cK2jIuZZa7WA8c9pqrK-2geDOx13EIjalCgm_PYPElrEc/s320/allacur.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></div><br />
2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/34">La Fin Du Monde</a> - This beer is responsible for my love of Tripels and it is the standard, for me, to judge all other Tripels against. It is widely available and from one of my favorite breweries, <a href="http://www.unibroue.com/">Unibroue</a>. There are flavors ranging from strong yeast to mild banana. Awesome.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1w3Bj6D5kZvb8D_QHEgnVyrLvwEgE9SAH3880rZhYEOOw3BqRbfCAE_3F-veLN4LsnTmA4jKlhP6OJyIunDU3bH7EO0brQmrALUkUOR7WG3kFC3UGqSZk3I6ytIE2Ctql8ZlWwnsUrM/s1600-h/lfdm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248903802310313570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1w3Bj6D5kZvb8D_QHEgnVyrLvwEgE9SAH3880rZhYEOOw3BqRbfCAE_3F-veLN4LsnTmA4jKlhP6OJyIunDU3bH7EO0brQmrALUkUOR7WG3kFC3UGqSZk3I6ytIE2Ctql8ZlWwnsUrM/s320/lfdm.jpg" style="cursor: pointer;" /></a></div><br />
3. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/202/656">Tripel Karmeliet</a> - Although the color is more transparent than I would like (joking, <span style="font-style: italic;">kind of</span>) it looks beautiful when poured properly, with its large white head and carbonation bubbles emitting from the bottom of the glass. This Tripel tends to have more of a peppery taste and also has more carbonation, which makes for an interesting mouthfeel.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUGeIUjQnELr68vLCDaxwPMWX-PRYtlbp_XhcsBxe2PBgv5qEfhg82zGlVCR7Vd2RfHObTtFkyFH6mdUp8nuiTyHgTJeq7aL_LRg8Hj3U7KuvDoN-a-DDMc7j3MXcURH1-dspRY-9yjo/s1600-h/tripkarm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248920661539057986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUGeIUjQnELr68vLCDaxwPMWX-PRYtlbp_XhcsBxe2PBgv5qEfhg82zGlVCR7Vd2RfHObTtFkyFH6mdUp8nuiTyHgTJeq7aL_LRg8Hj3U7KuvDoN-a-DDMc7j3MXcURH1-dspRY-9yjo/s320/tripkarm.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></div><br />
4. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/208/646">Westmalle Trappist Tripel</a> - Much like the Westmalle Dubbel, this one can be pricey, but it is also well worth the money spent. It is very smooth and drinkable and leaves a lot of lacing on the glass, which I love. It has a bit of spice to it, but levels out towards the end.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOq2T1OvfqOz7CzV6YnMlYn80LuoftPt_CtQhh0lvtVS6YOx8LnzqWWUl0_T80VDRNNuliNKUqgqqcgLt-sadfJmxXwYJeSiGTF_NB8-B0aMvwPBN5aISzGQG6bqX6eqZfE4lMb8PpUw/s1600-h/westm+tripel.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248922274799456594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOq2T1OvfqOz7CzV6YnMlYn80LuoftPt_CtQhh0lvtVS6YOx8LnzqWWUl0_T80VDRNNuliNKUqgqqcgLt-sadfJmxXwYJeSiGTF_NB8-B0aMvwPBN5aISzGQG6bqX6eqZfE4lMb8PpUw/s320/westm+tripel.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
5. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/997/15899">Green Peppercorn Tripel</a> - I was lucky to get my hands on this beer thanks to a trade negotiated online. Much like the name suggests, the peppercorn dominates the palate. It is very spicy and there are (at least in mine) yeast balls floating in the beer which balances the spiciness as it goes down. I believe this beer is only available at The Brewers Art in Maryland, which is on my radar to visit in the near future.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPF5pkg8WiTwscqsarzrz_x2j_rdRKvy1XmNpt1N-_csrIS4rPlEKN3_G5hlgJufANM_AXZ_SnHyFQNrpZxzOLjxgyizo1Y0bOJ19K9CGCZNtKB5F0KjTgBRsjFdCSrDup_Fr7F2IrXE/s1600-h/pepperc.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248922813405066978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPF5pkg8WiTwscqsarzrz_x2j_rdRKvy1XmNpt1N-_csrIS4rPlEKN3_G5hlgJufANM_AXZ_SnHyFQNrpZxzOLjxgyizo1Y0bOJ19K9CGCZNtKB5F0KjTgBRsjFdCSrDup_Fr7F2IrXE/s320/pepperc.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-78179227648180145532008-09-09T16:20:00.009-04:002010-07-07T04:15:00.210-04:00Quadrupels...a dream in your mouthSince my beer awakening I've experimented with as many styles as I can get my hands on, but the Quadrupel style seems to consistently please me the most.<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.elitechoice.org/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/trappistbeer.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" />From <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/142">Beer Advocate</a> :<br />
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<i>Inspired by the Trappist brewers of Belgium, a Quadrupel is a Belgian style ale of great strength with bolder flavor compared to its Dubbel and Tripel sister styles. Typically a dark creation that ranges within the deep red, brown and garnet hues. Full bodied with a rich malty palate. Phenols are usually at a moderate level. Sweet with a low bitterness yet a well perceived alcohol.</i><br />
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No style combines such flavor with such high alcohol by volume...it makes for a longer drink that is worth every minute. Some of my favorites:<br />
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1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/1545">Trappist Westvleteren 12</a> - (10.2% abv) If you've read our blog, you know how we feel about this beer. Extremely rare so it receives tons of hype, but it rewards you by living up to the hype in every way.<br />
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2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/669/6354">Malheur 12</a> - (12% abv) This is probably the strongest beer I've ever had, but it certainly doesn't sacrifice in flavor. Brick Store usually has this in a bottle...and it's still the only place I've ever seen it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrktJ13tEqQx_PatgMe9yXlxF-UtR0fYnWEiqAxEw6Adx0w3Zd4WsHcOHwSc6ymoVOsLCd-zGCuDgXK5G_CIL72Pddo91Hy0I_znJDm28NFcke4KiCIZQJFcjK6XL8fOnmxGqGHXQGeWM/s1600/113_malheur-12-25-cl_nl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrktJ13tEqQx_PatgMe9yXlxF-UtR0fYnWEiqAxEw6Adx0w3Zd4WsHcOHwSc6ymoVOsLCd-zGCuDgXK5G_CIL72Pddo91Hy0I_znJDm28NFcke4KiCIZQJFcjK6XL8fOnmxGqGHXQGeWM/s320/113_malheur-12-25-cl_nl.jpg" /></a></div>3. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1708">St. Bernardus Abt 12</a> - (10.5% abv) I credit this beer for changing my life (as it pertains to quality beer). I've seen many "quality beer" virgins have their first taste of Berny 12 and never turn back. Easy to get your hands on these days, even at most Krogers. Enjoy.<br />
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4. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/184/1402">La Trappe Quadrupel (Koningshoeven)</a> - (10% abv) I've had this both on draught and in a bottle and no matter how it enters your mouth it's delicious. </div><br />
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<div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.crackedkettle.com/store/images/LaTrappeQuadrupel.jpg" style="display: block; height: 479px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 140px;" /><br />
5. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/826/34084">Val Dieu Grand Cru</a> - (10.5% abv) Brick Store seems to have this on draught quite a bit , and I can't order it fast enough when they do. It's everything a quad should be.<br />
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6. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/1339/15274">Urthel Samaranth</a>- (12% abv) The dude with the huge nose is awesome...but this strong (same as Malheur) Quad packs some serious sweetness to balance it out.</div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.beernewsletter.com/blog/uploaded_images/Urthel-Quadrium-790001.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div>7. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/15237/34306">Pannepot Old Fisherman's Ale</a> - (10%abv) I've only had this once, but it certainly got my attention. I look forward to my next tasting of this fine example of a Quad.</div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-13934286282711599552008-08-04T16:17:00.001-04:002010-07-07T04:10:46.517-04:00Brick Store CellarKudos to <a href="http://www.classiccitybrew.com/">http://www.classiccitybrew.com/</a> for posting this video. <br />
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<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tL57CC3LaXQ&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tL57CC3LaXQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-89246472436455113282008-07-22T15:22:00.006-04:002010-07-07T04:09:45.650-04:00Pushing for a spot in my Top 10Back in April I made a list of my <a href="http://thebelgianway.blogspot.com/2008/04/harveys-current-top-10-beers.html">top 10 beers</a> at that time. Most of those delicious brews still remain in said list, but here are a few that are pushing to make the cut in the next release of my top 10.<br />
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<b>Easily going to be in my next 10:</b><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/681/20714">Abbaye Des Rocs Triple Imperiale</a> - (A+) all the way...such a complex mixture of sweet fruits and spices that go down so crisp and smooth. I know Nathan is with me on this one.<br />
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<a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2260358168_bbc0d04c0b.jpg?v=0"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2260358168_bbc0d04c0b.jpg?v=0" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/2269">N'ice Chouffe</a> (A) This is now my favorite Chouffe beer, even ahead of the McChouffe. Look for this one to move into my top 6 after this strong, dark winter warmer pleased my tastebuds.<br />
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<b>On the cusp of greatness:</b><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/48/156">Piraat</a> (A-) This Belgian IPA is as good as it is strong. There is a slight bitterness, that is quickly erased by a flood of sweetness that makes this one of the better beers I've had. Made by the same <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/48">brewery</a> as the Gulden Draak.<br />
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<a href="https://globalbeer.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/Glasses/Triple/big/Piraat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://globalbeer.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/Glasses/Triple/big/Piraat.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557/37833">Cuvee Angelique</a> (A-) this Dubbel wowed a table of friends last month and I've been thinking about it ever since then. It boasts the perfect level of sweetness that will make you grin like a little boy.<br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/3282/8422">La Binchoise Speciale Noel</a> (A-) this Belgian strong pale ale made a believer out of this Belgian dark fan. You'll never believe it has 9% alcohol after having a sip of this creamy dessert.<br />
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<b>Not quite there, but a darn good 'un:<br />
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</b><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557/27226">Jan De Lichte</a> (B+) paired extremly nice with Piave cheese at the 5th earl market. Made by the same <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557">brewery</a> as the Cuvee Angelique.<br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/72/37774">Schneider-Brooklyner Hopfen-Weisse</a> (B+) paired like a champ with Cypress Grove Purple Haze cheese at the 5th earl market. This was brewed at the Schneider brewery with Brooklyn Brewery hops. I approve.<br />
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<a href="http://www.realbeer.com/blog/images/20070718-hopfen.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.realbeer.com/blog/images/20070718-hopfen.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-3608428851835973752008-06-30T13:04:00.013-04:002010-07-07T04:00:57.395-04:00Sam Adams Tour<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217723934408303746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGi2DjayPAmesycX9OtLKdLGhTHLY2IhS8Gce7gc955J_8S_JL522TYPCfnF_6Bg22bfiT6lXl5lArHyL08ddj9kHKtE9N8iHqc6yAOALfKNuPigGdu-Mg4nueHI1ECZcXAAYVT-aW0yk/s320/signage.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /><br />
A few months ago we had the pleasure of touring the <a href="http://www.samueladams.com/samsite/tour.html">Boston Brewery</a> and got an inside look at how the Sam Adams beers are made. We took a brief tour of the facilities and received a nice <a href="http://www.samueladams.com/samsite/company.html">history</a> lesson on the beer itself. At the very end of the tour they take you into a small bar looking area and give you a sample of 3 different beers.<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217723858804899538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix5UlJvtsH6AAS_7PLHOhAPzd-7xUA1TxjzsBWv1Dz3nyr7jtn1Fl50SJg3tQn7AmVv6REXELGmPUYkvCXh97WjptYQKjIOfihCCSidrwR6qfu4PlEjbki2GwJOIUzUqmSl1Mr8or_HHg/s320/exterior.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /><br />
We tasted the following beers:<br />
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<div><div><div><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/35/104">Sam Adams Boston Lager</a><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/35/103">Sam Adams Summer Ale</a><br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/35/1881">Sam Adams Old Fezziwig</a> </div><div><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217724212636926354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG2Smzo3MDuBfeehhr8L8mzKUMz7pL9Ev3235hT9Fqa7JF4EwJg5cZPSReaNXtRsub8ieJrNO2Uzq087ElDgbR5GubsKXtyXEyZk1dJIvhivIvwgO_ywK7nQ2gBCWX42YhDX5tUGcR_q0/s320/cut+eyes.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217724356634195922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnODcNRKgi3nfgC0NJY999WmSq0mLSd2xbNJXiEbEPsz_3oiMuUknom-hKGCBcPgvcncU-_qX53EjG-br-BSfRLWem-0s2meAVidBlSUmJF3nfQKKOUE7ftkCfIm3VpL5UHhH34w5tnA/s320/seasonal.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /><br />
I enjoyed the Summer Ale, which I'd had before and the other 2 were fine...but I've come to a conclusion about Sam Adams Beers in general. If it's a wheat-style beer then I usually like it, but anything else by them just doesn't taste that great to me. Overall, it was fun to see the place and get a better idea of how beer is made, but let's not kid ourselves...it's no trip to Belgium.<br />
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<div></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5217724081014964850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJs5NEn3sAkn99KT0YbZZKcHui0QDn2OZuIvpwSY-ki0GXLI6TmjgFgAy0mV8VaLN8oofk-lVWnDrZwDPfw2VQPpk2W0MSyo_AIcERwln32M5UdtLd367WnTBZETuH3XA3Zi5RKVpP0A/s320/brewhouse.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-41259133918824368772008-06-19T12:32:00.006-04:002010-07-07T04:00:35.508-04:00Russian River Brewing Company. How do they do it?Santa Rosa, California is home to one of America's best craft breweries, <a href="http://www.russianriverbrewing.com/">The Russian River Brewing Company.</a> Sadly, I've never experienced one of their masterpieces, but they have 6 of the top 50 highest rated beers in the world according to <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/top_beers">Beer Advocate's top rated beers on the planet</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.united-nations-of-beer.com/images/russianriver1.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" />#4- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/21690">Pliny the Younger</a><br />
#9- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/7971">Pliny the Elder</a><br />
#20- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/22227">Supplication</a><br />
#23- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/27992">Beatification</a><br />
#31- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/9474">Temptation</a><br />
#47- <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/863/22790">Blind Pig IPA</a><br />
<br />
<div></div><div>This elite brewery shares a behind the scenes look in this video.</div><div></div><div>Watch. Drink. Learn.</div><br />
<embed base="http://admin.brightcove.com" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="videoId=1612545667&playerId=294377113&viewerSecureGatewayURL=https://console.brightcove.com/services/amfgateway&servicesURL=http://services.brightcove.com/services&cdnURL=http://admin.brightcove.com&domain=embed&autoStart=false&" height="550" name="flashObj" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=" seamlesstabbing="false" src="http://services.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f8/294377113" swliveconnect="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="510"></embed><br />
<div></div><br />
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<div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-39542603055810176332008-06-19T09:35:00.006-04:002010-07-07T04:00:11.024-04:005th Earl Market Allagash Dinner<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon_AJREmolaNYk0XJfTcVOVwRbxD5WNc6cuZwoNTvW0t_CxooYZg1BuF6EO094hY0vp15g0qgJIYN6VJgKAk-n9I4y3DAkVBRkn_9KXNEWPMuhayBd8hvypyRjGXRXdoLpHoTsklAM0w/s1600-h/5th+earl+market+sign.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213619078662726338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon_AJREmolaNYk0XJfTcVOVwRbxD5WNc6cuZwoNTvW0t_CxooYZg1BuF6EO094hY0vp15g0qgJIYN6VJgKAk-n9I4y3DAkVBRkn_9KXNEWPMuhayBd8hvypyRjGXRXdoLpHoTsklAM0w/s320/5th+earl+market+sign.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://5thearlmarket.com/">5th Earl Market</a> in Decatur, GA is doing some great things with their food and beer options. Their <a href="http://5thearlmarket.com/beer.html">beer selection</a> is somewhat limited, but the selections they offer are outstanding. Next month, on July 19th at 7pm, they'll be hosting an <a href="http://allagash.com/home.htm">Allagash</a> beer dinner, and I'm already salivating just typing that out and reading it aloud. Cost is $55/person and limited to 45 people. The menu goes like this:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Reception</span><br />
Food: Tomato on Toast (Roasted Tomato Quenelle, Goat Cheese Moussiline, Balsamic Jelly, Basil Oil)<br />
Drink: <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/59">Allagash White</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Course I</span><br />
Food: Peach Carpaccio (Shaved Peaches, Roquefort Blue Cheese, Baby Arugula, Lemon,Wood Grilled Shrimp)<br />
Drink: <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/448">Allagash Tripel Reserve</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Course II</span><br />
Food: Beer For Breakfast (Fried Duck Eggs, Ostrich Sausage, Potato & Parmesan Fritters, Sauce Charon)<br />
Drink: <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/36527">Allagash Hugh Malone</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Course III</span><br />
Food: Bressler’s Baby Back Ribs (Southern Spice Rub, Warm Purple Potato Salad, 5th Earl BBQ Sauce)<br />
Drink: <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/31254">Allagash Musette</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Course IV</span><br />
Food: Dark Chocolate Mousse (Grand Marnier Ice Cream, White Chocolate Nougat, Sugar Candies)<br />
Drink: <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/10">Allagash Dubbel Reserve</a><br />
<br />
Contact Brian for reservations: <a href="mailto:brian@5thearlmarket.com">brian@5thearlmarket.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-37903040118869871012008-06-03T11:41:00.002-04:002010-07-07T03:58:56.552-04:00Inspired BeerTake a tour of the Chimay brewery and see how the Trappist Monk brewing process takes place...<br />
<br />
Very educational.<br />
<br />
<object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6_sVVOk0njU&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6_sVVOk0njU&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-2857289572278889552008-06-02T11:59:00.009-04:002010-07-07T03:59:38.680-04:00All in a Saturday Night's workSaturday night was a boys night that involved the fine establishments <a href="http://www.brickstorepub.com/index.html">Brick Store</a> and <a href="http://www.twains.net/">Twains</a> and the fine beer choices that both offer. As Nathan would agree, if we can open up the eyes of just one friend to what good beer is...the night was well worth it. Let's just say I left happy, and here are the beers that led to this happiness.<br />
<div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.classiccitybrew.com/decatur_brickstorefront.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<div></div>Ranked in order of what I considered the best to the worst. (Disclaimer: If there is a star by a beer, I only had a sip or two of a friends but still feel it's my duty to judge it)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/681/20714">Abbaye Des Rocs Triple Imperiale</a> (A) just an amazing experience, that I may rate right above the Grand Cru by this brewery. Very sweet, flavorful Belgian Strong Dark ale that I'll be having again (hopefully soon).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/10557/37833">Cuvee Angelique</a> (A-) the unofficial favorite of the group, and I would have agreed until I had the Triple Imperiale. Judging from the amount of reviews online, this is a rarer dubbel that I hope finds it way into Brick Store more often!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/1534/4106">Gouden Carolus Classic</a> (B+) this was the first time I'd had this one on draught, and I came away with the same feeling...YES Please! This Belgian Strong Dark ale is relatively easy to get your hands on in the Atlanta area and I suggest you do so. I look forward to trying more stuff from this brewery soon.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/9790/27249">Duck Rabbit Rabid Duck</a>* (B) Kudos to Dave for "manning up" and ordering this Russian Imperial Stout. It certainly was "rabid" with chocolate and coffee flavors that may be the best I've had in this style (granted I've only had 4 or so before).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/220/35397">Lagunitas Lucky 13</a> (C+) not quite as bitter as its brother the <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/220/35738">"Hop Stoopid</a>," but this American Srong Ale had me wishing I would have ordered something different. So I did.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/2372/42746">Terrapin Oak Aged Rye Squared</a>* (C) this sucker was even more bitter than the Lagunitas, and I just can't handle bitter-hopped up brews. To each his own.<br />
<br />
Twains is a brewpub and I see 3 out of the 4 pitchers that our group ordered are on <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/">beer advocate</a>, so I'll add the links here. I basically think all of Twain's beers are in the low B range...very solid brews that are more than worthy of a try (especially while playing pool).<br />
<div><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://airbornecombatengineer.typepad.com/photos/decatur/twainsheader635w.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/6928/34952">Twain's Mysterious Stranger Brown Ale</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/6928/34954">Twain's Mad Happy Pale Ale</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/6928/34086">Twain's Heaven for Climate Golden Ale</a><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.wrededesign.com/twains/images/tanks.gif" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
<div>They also had a wheat beer(Wit and Humor Bavarian Wheat) that may have been the smoothest of the night. I noticed it didn't last nearly as long as the Brown Ale.<br />
<br />
*Special note- to the guys that ordered Bud and Miller Lite's at Twains (you know who you are) after having a taste of heaven at the Brick Store...SHAME ON YOU. Those aren't the actions of guys that want in to Beer Heaven. </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-46393712339394343092008-05-08T14:19:00.008-04:002010-07-07T03:58:34.294-04:00The Netherland's hidden gem<div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.beer-pages.com/images/la-trappe-label.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div><div>Belgium is home to 6 out of the 7 trappist breweries in the world, but what about that other guy? <a href="http://www.latrappe.nl/index.php?pid=17">The La Trappe Trappist brewery</a> of The Netherlands is busy making some really good beer despite not being one of the bigger names of the Trappist brands like Chimay, Orval, and Westmalle. In the USA and Canada, La Trappe is marketed as <a href="http://www.koningshoeven.nl/Taal-En/index-ENG.htm">Koningshoeven Trappist Ale</a> after the abbey name in case this blog entry prompts you to go out and find one.</div><br />
<br />
<div><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1326/1223516474_398d2e2f9d.jpg?v=0" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
According to their website:<br />
<b><i>"The atmosphere of dedication, silence and contemplation that reigns within the walls of the monastery find their expression in this fine range of beers."</i><br />
</b><br />
AMEN!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div><div>I've had the pleasure of sampling 3 of their beers and here is how I'd rate them:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.beermerchants.com/Images/Products/261_633306331379572402.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/184/1402">La Trappe Quadrupel</a> A (10% abv) The best La Trappe I've had so far, making a strong push for the next release of my top 10. If you like dark fruits, caramel, and sugar (and why wouldn't you), you must give this beer a try. I had this on draught at <a href="http://www.deepellum-boston.com/">Deep Ellum</a> in Boston this past weekend and the only thing better than the beer was the company.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/184/626">La Trappe Dubbel</a> B+ (6.5% abv) Nathan and I sampled a bottle of this at my house a few months ago and it was a very solid dubbel. It's not quite in the league of the Westmalle Dubbel, but it's a very pleasing drink in its own right. Combining a fruity/malty taste gives this beer a drinkability not many can claim.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/184/658">La Trappe Tripel</a> B- (8% abv) I had this at the same time as the dubbel, and it was certainly a step down for me. I think Nathan actually would rate this one ahead of the dubbel (to each his own right?). It was certainly well flavored, but seemed to have a dryness (maybe even a bitterness) that bothered the drinking experience. Not my favorite tripel, but I'll certainly have another one some day.</div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-27972082810180491222008-04-09T14:20:00.012-04:002010-07-07T06:06:00.252-04:00My (Current) Top 10 List<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintsLiJwM5Mv2WoehBMgt-kJadmbDRFY-5QN4qBrKCVaBcq-DVi3zAQt-TY0-CE1Rpj92L3ugbikYaWZ6Fd2l4A1WEEmUgY3QVSMCvi7ERoUmE4kjq0bS3A9OXHXhy9L-7fd8hnS_7tDE/s1600-h/dark+beer.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192096131847407490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintsLiJwM5Mv2WoehBMgt-kJadmbDRFY-5QN4qBrKCVaBcq-DVi3zAQt-TY0-CE1Rpj92L3ugbikYaWZ6Fd2l4A1WEEmUgY3QVSMCvi7ERoUmE4kjq0bS3A9OXHXhy9L-7fd8hnS_7tDE/s320/dark+beer.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/11703276604299303302">Jarrod's</a> list and mine have a lot of overlaps, as we've sampled most of the same beers, often, at the same time. Mine, of course, is more refined and thusly, more valued.<br />
<br />
The layout of my list is simple. I start with the beers name (followed by it's country of origin, style), some thoughts about the beer, the rating I've assigned it, and if applicable, its entry on the renowned "<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/top_beers">Top 100 Beers of the World</a>" list. My list is sure to change as new beers are sampled. Currently, it looks like this:<br />
<br />
<ol><li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/1545">Westvleteren 12</a> (Belgium, Quadrupel) - I reviewed this as the first entry on this blog, check it. A++. #1<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/857">Westvleteren 8</a> (Belgium, Dubbel) - This one just barely gets beat by its bigger brother, very complex beer. A+. #8<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/30">Trois Pistoles</a> (Canada, Belgian Strong Dark) - Decent beer establishment will/should carry this. If served properly, it's hard to beat. A+.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/15237/34306">Pannepot Old Fisherman's Ale</a> (Belgium, Quadrupel) - Very complex flavors/aromas, such an exceptional beer. A+. #23<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1708">St. Bernardus Abt 12</a> (Belgium, Quadrupel) - A mainstay, I doubt this will ever drop from my top ten list. A+. #20<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/34">La Fin Du Monde</a> (Canada, Belgian Tripel) - Same brewery (Unibroue) as Trois Pistoles, one of the best tripel's, hands down. A+. #75<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/208/674">Westmalle Trappist Dubbel</a> (Belgium, Dubbel) - It's expensive but totally worth it. A textbook Dubbel. A+.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/33">Maudite</a> (Canada, Belgian Strong Dark) - Also from Unibroue, I'm beginning to see a pattern here... A+.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4/16909">Allagash Curieux</a> (United States, Belgian Tripel) - The initial taste was that of bourbon, it subsides and ends very smooth, could make a good dessert beer. A+.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/72/224">Aventinus</a> (Germany, Weizenbock) - I wish I could have kept this list to strictly Belgian style beers, but this one, from the David Hasselhoff loving Germans, couldn't not make the cut. A.<br />
</li>
</ol><br />
Honorable mentions:<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/722">St. Bernardus Tripel</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/27804">Houblon Chouffe Dobbelen IPA Tripel</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/637/1717">Saison Dupont</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/637/1713">Moinette Blond<br />
</a><br />
Drink Less. Drink Better.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-23659759191996487652008-04-08T17:29:00.006-04:002010-07-07T03:57:19.000-04:00Harvey's current top 10 beersSubject to change upon my next beer:<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/1545">Trappist Westvleteren 12</a> - elite, perfect, holy, God-sent<br />
2. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1708">St. Bernardus Abt. 12</a> - this guy was responsible for my beer enlightenment<br />
3. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/48/155">Gulden Draak (Dark Triple)</a> - see post below- flavor country<br />
4. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/208/674">Westmalle Trappist Dubbel</a>- the best Dubbel I've had<br />
5. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/1581">McChouffe</a>- this beer really opened my eyes to the strong, dark ales<br />
6. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/826/34084">Val-Dieu Grand Cru</a> - such a dark, sweet treat<br />
7. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/681/26277">Abbaye Des Rocs Grand Cru</a> - so smooth, yet so dark and fruity<br />
8. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/857">Trappist Westvleteren 8</a> - just a notch below the Westy 12<br />
9. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/15237/34306">Pannepot-Old Fisherman's Ale</a> - wasn't much of a fisherman-until I tried this<br />
10. <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1854">Watou Tripel</a> tied with its cousin <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/722">St. Bernardus Tripel</a> - these won't lead you astray<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.beerparadise.be/myImages/05/004/logo_bbp.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
A few that are fighting to get in this elite list (in no order)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/33">Maudite</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/22/30">Trois Pistoles</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/753/2319">Nostradamus</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/637/1717">Saison Dupont</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/27804">Houblon Chouffe</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/252/779">Weihenstephaner Korbinian</a><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/220/2533">Lagunitas Hairy Eyeball</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-11101192897741898862008-04-07T13:06:00.012-04:002010-07-07T03:47:14.953-04:00Gulden Draak: Bad Bottle, Great Beer!As I perused the menu at the Brick Store last Friday night, I came across a beer with the description "Dark Triple." I thought to myself, "I like Triples and I like dark Belgians...so this may be a pretty easy decision." Let me tell you something friend, the <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/48/155">Gulden Draak (Dark Triple)</a> was one of the more pleasing experiences my taste buds have ever had.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.villevallapub.se/sortiment/image_file/22" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div><div>Officially labeled a "<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/56">Belgian Strong Dark Ale</a>," the Draak had a much different look and taste to it than its other dark-ale brothers. It almost felt like the love-child of a pure <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/58">tripel</a> and a pure <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/142">quadrupel</a> because of the flavor sensations (and reddish-bronze look) that were going on. I certainly sensed some cherries as well as other darker fruits, but then you are infused with some caramel-like sweetness as well. </div><div><br />
</div><div>But, even some of the most perfect things in life also have flaws...the Gulden Draak's just happens to be that hideous white bottle. Even though mine was served from the tap, I just don't understand how such a perfect beer can be served in a poor man's-milk jug of a bottle. They are doing amazing things with graphic design these days ya know? Work on your presentation please <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/48">Brouwerij Van Steenberge</a>! </div><div><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.brl.ntt.co.jp/people/fujisawa/per/delft/beer/By10.JPG" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div>Overall, this beer is no joke at 10.5% abv, but you would never know it! My only regret is that I chose to follow this beer with a Rogue. Worst decision of my life! This beer rates an A+ all the way and I'm a big believer in not inflating grades. It currently sits in my top 5 beers easy.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Still don't believe me? Would this guy lie to you? </div><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y240/Thousandbars/Draaks.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" />That's what I thought.</div><div><br />
<div></div><br />
<div>*Please note that I can't confirm what that guy is actually drinking and it doesn't look like a Gulden Draak, but he does come up when you google image "Gulden Draak" so I made the amazing decision that he should appear on this blog. </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-31791912911054467362008-04-02T14:07:00.001-04:002010-07-07T03:45:07.666-04:00Beer/Wine Quotes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMo_qZ1xmikdPY74HkqBmqBy5ynB45EWiuHosTczx0d1gmpf75DX0UDdn2IPeCXkxMfu2P7vmLDBoRMycZUuu7YVJ5hOOSmCc_RoOolhzL8EmJwJQeJjER_F-zh5AHXJGBOIgTcUKTBg/s1600-h/bw+beer.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186609308432852578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMo_qZ1xmikdPY74HkqBmqBy5ynB45EWiuHosTczx0d1gmpf75DX0UDdn2IPeCXkxMfu2P7vmLDBoRMycZUuu7YVJ5hOOSmCc_RoOolhzL8EmJwJQeJjER_F-zh5AHXJGBOIgTcUKTBg/s320/bw+beer.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a><br />
<i>Do you suppose that abuses are eliminated by destroying the object which is abused? Men can go wrong with wine and women. Shall we then prohibit and abolish women? </i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
-Martin Luther</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><i><o:p> </o:p>We old folks have to find our cushions and pillows in our tankards. Strong beer is the milk of the old.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">-Martin Luther</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><i><br />
</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>People who drink light 'beer' don't like the taste of beer; they just like to pee alot.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Capital Brewery, </span><st1:place st="on" style="font-weight: bold;"><st1:city st="on">Middleton</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">WI</st1:state></st1:place><br />
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<i>Always remember that I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Winston Churchill</span><br />
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<i>If God had intended us to drink beer, He would have given us stomachs.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -David Daye</span><br />
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<i>Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Benjamin Franklin</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><span class="small"><i>There cannot be good living where there is not good drinking.</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -</span><span class="small" style="font-weight: bold;">Benjamin Franklin</span><br />
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<i>The easiest way to spot a wanker in a pub is to look around and find who's drinking a <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Corona</st1:place></st1:city> with a slice of lemon in the neck.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -</span><st1:place st="on" style="font-weight: bold;"><st1:city st="on">Warwick</st1:city></st1:place><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Franks</span><br />
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<i>I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts, and beer.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Abraham Lincoln</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><i>It has been my experience that folks who have no vices have very few virtues.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Abraham Lincoln</span><br />
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<i>Whoever serves beer or wine watered down, he himself deserves in them to drown.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Midieval plea for pure libations</span><br />
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<i>Why is American beer served cold? So you can tell it from urine.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -David Moulton</span><br />
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<i>He was a wise man who invented beer.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Plato</span><br />
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<i>[I recommend]… bread, meat, vegetables and beer.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Sophocles' philosophy of a moderate diet</span><br />
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<i>This is grain, which any fool can eat, but for which the Lord intended a more divine means of consumption... Beer!</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -</span><i style="font-weight: bold;">Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves</i><span style="font-weight: bold;">, Friar Tuck</span><br />
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<i>You can't be a real country unless you have a beer and an airline - it helps if you have some kind of a football team, or some nuclear weapons, but at the very least you need a beer.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -Frank Zappa</span><br />
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<i>The mouth of a perfectly happy man is filled with beer</i>.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">-Ancient Egyptian proverb</span><br />
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<i>The selling of bad beer is a crime against Christian love.</i><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"> -13th century law from the city of </span><st1:city st="on" style="font-weight: bold;"><st1:place st="on">Augsburg</st1:place></st1:city><br />
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<span class="small"><i>God made yeast, as well as dough, and he loves fermentation just as dearly as he loves vegetation.</i></span><br />
<span class="small" style="font-weight: bold;">- Ralph Waldo Emerson</span> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-22527184800063186382008-03-31T14:01:00.009-04:002010-08-12T17:47:47.833-04:00Orval and Achel: Completing the Sacred Task<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIbs0mRXEXOUSNos9Mgpqqw-7c2DUKw2ETmuCKE76YmN_UZ3FxFo_kbLkm3axDM9XkjV9E6UBgidSbpjtu-LYpYBon5ocVsQtOnI9e5b9Qt282l9ZqZ16BzyHrAIkvq9J_05o1UO1zJo/s1600-h/orval-achel.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186197983709881938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIbs0mRXEXOUSNos9Mgpqqw-7c2DUKw2ETmuCKE76YmN_UZ3FxFo_kbLkm3axDM9XkjV9E6UBgidSbpjtu-LYpYBon5ocVsQtOnI9e5b9Qt282l9ZqZ16BzyHrAIkvq9J_05o1UO1zJo/s320/orval-achel.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a><br />
It's not surprising the number seven is often a symbol of completion. On Thursday we completed every Belgian beer lovers dream, and tasted our final two Trappist beers. We've now sampled each one of the seven Trappist beers in existence. Pretty killer. Orval and Achel rounded out the list for us, and both completely delivered.<br />
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The <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/37/129">Orval</a>, having a pretty sweet reputation in the beer community, had me initially pumped, and it totally lived up to its reputation. It's a <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/54">Belgian Pale Ale</a>, which to me, can be a hit and miss style of beer. It looked pretty rad once I poured it into my <a href="https://secure5.worldaxxs.net/ssl.ommegang.com/cgi-bin/plugins/MivaEmpresas/miva?plugins/MivaMerchants/merchant.mvc+Screen=PROD&Product_Code=DUVGLASS&Category_Code=FEP&Store_Code=DUVEL-USA">Duvel glass</a>, having a nice bronze color and a nice foamy head. I was still pumped at this point. I sniffed it. It smelled of strong yeast and carbonation. I sipped it, and it was complex yet simple, at the same time. Balanced perfectly were the flavors of mild hops, yeast, slight funkiness (funkiness is a good thing, IMO), and some fruit (lemon, faint banana, grapefruit) flavors as well. This beer earns a solid A.<br />
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The Achel was also very good. We had the <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/922/2948">Achel</a><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/922/2948"> 8°</a><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/922/2948"> Blond</a>, which is a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripel">Tripel</a> style beer (my personal favorite style, slightly ahead of it's bigger brother, the <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/142">Quadrupel</a>). The Achel poured a golden hazy color with a decent sized head that dissipated into a thin film. It smelled great and was filled with citrus and hop aromas. The beer is a spot-on Tripel. It had a brief citrus taste along with a rather strong hop flavor at the finish. It's crisp and very drinkable. It doesn't make the top of my Tripel list, but I would say it's still a classic of the Tripel style. I give the Achel Blond a solid B+.<br />
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Well done <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cistercians">Cistercians</a>! You've crafted some exceptional beer. The Bible (Psalm 104:15) states that wine makes the heart glad and you too have made my heart glad with your beer. Keep up the good work, you <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/media/images/39245000/jpg/_39245474_1_no_re_use.jpg">crazy little Trappist monks</a>...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-46619332217002131882008-03-27T11:19:00.012-04:002010-07-07T03:42:01.526-04:00Tonight - Sealing the Seventh Sign (Beer)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYkqyaEzQlxMEsWDbeTEkvsQfEmYL-DzPpJGH4r2rsABPGB28vapm5_NoWWmBwFKGYiEPPdrZ4yCyuVwBltM6vgciGVt35_ZkH0RLPUVI-vyZHbZjczewCTw25Lq54-xNs1c5gmB0rA8/s1600-h/rochefort460.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182466228360308290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYkqyaEzQlxMEsWDbeTEkvsQfEmYL-DzPpJGH4r2rsABPGB28vapm5_NoWWmBwFKGYiEPPdrZ4yCyuVwBltM6vgciGVt35_ZkH0RLPUVI-vyZHbZjczewCTw25Lq54-xNs1c5gmB0rA8/s320/rochefort460.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a>Tonight is going to rule pretty hard. Tonight we (<a href="http://paulruddisagenius.blogspot.com/">Jarrod </a>and I) complete a great feat. We're trying the final two <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trappist">Trappist</a> beers we have not had, completing the goal of having tasted all seven. Tonight we'll sample <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/37/129">Orval </a>and <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/922/2948">Achel</a>. I'm pretty pumped about trying both, as they both have great reputations in the beer world. Here's the five we've previously had, with my favorite style they brew in parenthesis, followed by a brief rating and my thoughts on each:<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Trappist Westvleteren</span> (<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/1545">12</a>): A+++. Easily the best beverage that has ever entered my mouth.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Rochefort</span> (<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/207/645">Trappistes 10</a>): A+. I love <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/142">quadrupels</a>, and this is probably my favorite. <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Westmalle Trappist</span> (<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/208/646">Tripel</a>): A+. The best <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripel">tripel </a>I've had, really smooth and drinkable.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Chimay</span> (<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/215/1346">Tripel/White</a>): A. An incredible beer, widely available, look for the white label.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Koningshoeven</span> (<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/184/626">La Trappe Dubbel</a>): A. An amazing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dubbel">dubbel</a>, better than its tripel sibling.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</span><br />
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Review of the Orval and Achel's coming soon...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-67963319616854188052008-03-25T16:52:00.007-04:002010-07-07T03:41:22.910-04:00I like Gnome NectarGnomes just get it. But, do you know who gets it more than the gnomes? The <a href="http://www.achouffe.be/">Brasserie d'Achouffe</a> does, that's who. I've had 3 of their special treats and this is how I'd rate them.<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.bierenco.nl/images/bierspecial/Gnome-Mc-Chouffe.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /><br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/1836">La Chouffe</a> A <br />
This belgian strong pale ale is 8% abv and full of sweet flavor that is candy in your mouth. <br />
<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/1581">McChouffe</a> A+ <br />
My personal favorite of the Chouffe beers is a belgian strong dark ale that is also 8% abv and has a darker, spicier taste than the La Chouffe, but still has plenty of sweetness. Near perfection.<br />
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<a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/321/27804">Houblon Chouffe</a> A- <br />
The harder to find of the Chouffes, this Belgian IPA is 9% abv and fully of citrusy sweetness that will make you question previous beer choices you've made.<br />
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I'm no scholar but I do know that this brewery gets straight A's in my book...and my book counts for a lot. If these beers are good enough for a little guy with a big nose then it's certainly good enough for me. Enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUf2N_-vYVFm8XX1cuPZACRf0AonDac55yVtKbrPCdeGLyscXLmUm5h6lvP3usKhVVuV0kI1HiiLjnyp0AJ2XhNaZrT5XUSgYa02ea3VSO8f1yHswR-sgSLxEmYc4YEHBEO5TiolJOdw/s1600/497493-la_chouffe_beer-achouffe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUf2N_-vYVFm8XX1cuPZACRf0AonDac55yVtKbrPCdeGLyscXLmUm5h6lvP3usKhVVuV0kI1HiiLjnyp0AJ2XhNaZrT5XUSgYa02ea3VSO8f1yHswR-sgSLxEmYc4YEHBEO5TiolJOdw/s320/497493-la_chouffe_beer-achouffe.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5445363538436532639.post-8203836354340411392008-03-24T15:38:00.008-04:002010-07-07T05:37:01.393-04:00THE Trappist Westvleteren 12<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6WT-1-BuBbkZEg1Dl8W9i4G1L-EMs8ZMAQJQT4ETW4MgeLutFLQll3mCuILDF5kfy9-llv5P-kJYpXh_8MJNC3f209mkAnqUcymi4yG8dXtx27XPXUV-ChgvGKBA94zn3J33468Le8g/s1600-h/Westvleteren.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5181427417505326642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6WT-1-BuBbkZEg1Dl8W9i4G1L-EMs8ZMAQJQT4ETW4MgeLutFLQll3mCuILDF5kfy9-llv5P-kJYpXh_8MJNC3f209mkAnqUcymi4yG8dXtx27XPXUV-ChgvGKBA94zn3J33468Le8g/s320/Westvleteren.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Beer: </span><a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/313/1545/">Westvleteren 12</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Origin:</span> Belgium<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV:</span> 10.2%<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Serving type:</span> bottle<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Style:</span> <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/142">Quadrupel</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Brewery:</span> <a href="http://www.sintsixtus.be/eng/home.htm">De Sint-Sixtusabdij van Westvleteren</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating:</span> A+<br />
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The Trappist Westvleteren 12 is regarded by many as "The Holy Grail of Beers", as it is not only near impossible to obtain, but also considered <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/top_beers">the best beer in the world</a>. The beer is brewed by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trappists">Trappists monks</a>, and is one of only seven <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trappist_beer">Trappist beers</a> in existence. Six of those Trappist brews are widely available, Westvleteren being the lone one, which is not. The beer is so rare, that it is only available for (legal) sale in Belgium, at two places: the abbey where it's <a href="http://www.sintsixtus.be/eng/brouwerij.htm">brewed </a>or at the <a href="http://www.sintsixtus.be/eng/claustrum.htm">cafe </a>across the street, which the abbey owns. Enter the world of beer trading.<br />
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We found a dude online via <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/">beeradvocate.com</a> that had some Westy's and we had some beers he wanted, so it was a match made in heaven, giving us the chance to experience the beer of all beers. Holy crap, and heaven it was! Below is my review of the Westy 12...<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Appearance</span> - 4.5 out of 5<br />
I poured the beer into a goblet and I gave it some air to produce a nice thick head, about an inch thick. The head was foamy, as opposed to creamy, and the color was that of sand. The head dissipated some but stuck around for the duration, with very slight lacing. The beer is dark and cloudy and has a chocolaty look to it.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Smell</span> - 5 out of 5<br />
The smell was confusing, which was awesome. It ranged from bitter fruits (raisins) to mild fruits (banana) to chocolate to yeast. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Taste</span> - 5 out of 5<br />
Similar to the smell, the taste was hard to pinpoint. It's very robust and complex and hides its alcohol extremely well. The initial taste is similar to that of a <a href="http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/259/1708">St. Bernardus .Abt 12</a>, although the Westy 12 masks its alcohol much better and has a broader range of flavors. Not to mislead though, the Westvleteren 12 surpasses the St. Berny (which is outstanding in its own right) in flavor. To date, I have not tasted a better beer.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Mouthfeel</span> - 5 out of 5<br />
The beer is very smooth with a slight dry finish. Again, the most similar comparison is the St. Berny 12, although the Berny has more carbonation feel to it, where as the Westy replaces that with more of an oily feel. It has a perfect brief aftertaste, leaving me wanting more. "The Holy Grail" of beer? Nah, more like "The crack cocaine of beer", I just kept wanting more...<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Drinkability</span> - 5 out of 5<br />
I could go on and on about this beer. I had really high expectations for it, and it completely delivered. To my surprise, it exceeded my expectations. Suffice to say, I will <span style="font-style: italic;">constantly </span>be looking to get my hands on more of these.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6