Holiday Beer -- We had a little fun at work yesterday blogging beer. Sometimes cubicle conversations turn into good blog fodder. As you'll see, I cited a few of my previously blogged beers. I forgot to note, however, that I also have Fuller's London Pride Pale Ale (the fullness of the beer is matched by the physical weight of the bottle; a well-rounded beer experience) and Offshore Ale Co. Amber Ale in the fridge. They were in the back of the fridge, so I'd forgotten about them until I reacquainted myself with the Fuller's last night. I also had a single bottle of Ballantine Ale, grabbed at an annual beer and cookie swap Mason and I attended before Christmas. Ballantine exudes a classic ale taste, but maybe I think so because it's what my grandfather used to stock in his refrigerator. Either way, it was a nice drink down memory lane. (12.30.2004)
Dogfish Head: Raison D'Etre -- Good for winter drinking, without the overpowering nutmeg and other spices that some autumn and winter beers have. Also, tonight I used it for boiling shrimp, giving the shrimp a slightly sweet flavor.
Thus far in my experience, Dogfish rocks. I loooove the Chicory Stout. Am pretty sure I've tried and liked the Shelter Pale Ale, too. (11.29.2004)
This Thanksgiving, beer is for the bird -- Thanks, Jack, for this insightful, enlightening article. Given that we are going out this year, a beer might be just the right libation. (11.19.2004)
Rao's Coffee Roasting Company -- Our thanks to Geoff for introducing us to this fine java. He had raved about their coffee previously, but when he brought us a pound of Panama a couple of weeks ago, we were hooked. When I discovered I could order it online, I became an instant junkie. We still love the hazelnut from Java Journey, our local coffee shop. But I am now an official Rao's devotee too. (6.24.2003)
Erdinger Weissbrau -- A very full-bodied Hefe Weizen, if you can imagine such a thing. Thirst-quenching and flavorful without being too light. Didn't even need to add any lemon. (4.16.2004)
Kennebunkport Brewing Co. Pumpkinhead Ale -- Not listed on their Web site, probably because of its seasonal appearance. This brew is a little sweeter than I usually prefer, but still a festive nutmeg flavor that wins the drinker over. I liked this one much better than the Blue Fin Stout I also purchased from the KBC store. The stout was a little flatter and less flavorful than I'd hoped. (10.19.2003)
The Webtender: Beer -- Move over, Black and Tan. A Black Russian combining Guinness and vodka sounds downright dangerous. Reminds me of the submarine concoctions our host students in Spain had us try way back when. I vaguely recall a shot glass containing tequila or some such spirit being plopped in my beers from time to time. The multiple instances is probably why there is only a vague recollection.... Once my former wisdom teeth have healed, look out! (8.8.2003)
Saranac Black Forest -- Billed as a Bavarian black beer (or Schwarzbier). Slightly sweet, hint of fruit and very smooth (more detailed reviews at Beer Advocate tend to agree). Had it with a steak Brandy cooked in our new Williams Sonoma grill pan, with ... sauce slathered over the top and a side of suateed spinach. It was all good. The latest "it" brew? Perhaps, but there's certainly nothing wrong with that! It is beer, after all. Could only be coincidence that Latrobe Brewing Co. released a version late last year (reportedly only available on tap; will have to locate and sample). (8.6.2003)
Black Sheep Holy Grail Ale -- Sure, there's a novelty to the name. But bottom line: It was a fantastic bottom's up from strt to easy-drinking finish. Reminded me of the Heather Ale Grozet (Gooseberry Ale) Brandy bought for me for Christmas, though not as fruity. Credit to Beer Guru (he has many titles) Joe Alba on this one. (7.14.2003)
Flying Dog Beer Road Dog Ale -- How can you resist a beer label that says, "Good Beer. No Shit." Also, on the site: "Excess consumption may result in naked encounters with mustard!" Oh, yeah, the beer is good too. Darker than an ordinary ale, but not too heavy. I picked up a sampler pack on a whim. Enjoyed every one of the varieties, but this was the favorite. (7.1.2003)
