Daily Beer Review

Island Creek Oyster Stout

2010-03-10T15:32:00.000-08:00

I was over on that Twitter thingy this morning and someone posted this Adweek Blog short about Cornell Law School embracing Andy Bernard from The Office. Being a Cornell graduate, although not from the Law School (I snuck in plenty of times to study in serene quiet though), I must say that is so fucking awesome! Even though Andy's banner is rotating with 5 or 6 others, his "I went to Cornell... Ever heard of it?" always makes me laugh. Below the banner is a link to another site with a bunch of Andy quotes, all terrific. There are, however, a bunch of stiffs at the top of the University and Alumni that lack a sense of humor, and don't like this promotion. They really need to get over it, like this law student:

Question: What person has influenced your decision to apply to Cornell?

Answer: Andy Bernard of Scranton (from NBC's The Office).

Tonight I'm drinking Island Creek Oyster Stout brewed by Harpoon Brewery in Boston, Massachusetts. This is "Session 30" in their 100 Barrel Series. They further go on to beat a dead horse with a "Limited Edition Small Batch" seal. Neat presentation though, including the gold foil over the cap and neck of this 22-ounce bottle. OK, you got me. I'm intrigued by "brewed with freshly harvested Island Creek Oysters".

Malty coffee aroma. The flavors start out with some chocolate and rich coffee, plenty malty and plenty roasted. Smooth but very thick and very low carbonation, almost flat. That was a turn off. Then this smoky flavor started to persist mixed with a saltiness that was not flattering. I feel like I'm drinking a leather shoe! No oyster flavors, either, although I thought that part was doubtful. Halfway through the beer I am wishing it was all over. There is a really annoying astringent drying component that just leaves this roasted, bitter, burnt smoky coffee flavor behind. Sorry. I'm done!

The Office Andy Bernard Bobblehead

"WORLD'S BEST BOSS" Coffee Mug

The Office - Season Five

Trois Pistoles

2010-03-09T15:04:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I found myself on the couch rocking out with Iron Maiden in their "Death on the Road" Tour. It was on The 101 Channel with DirecTV, which I was watching on Channel 239. Go figure! (For you weirdo readers, it's the same channel they show the prison-rape show Oz late nights.) Right now, I HATE DirecTV, so much so that I don't even want to talk about them to say why. Also, I was never a fan when Iron Maiden was more popular, and I couldn't even name one song, not even today. But for some reason I felt like watching this hour-long special.

Now these dudes are aging... a lot! My office-mate told me that they are and were super-popular in Brazil and that he still kicks himself for missing a concert in Rio in 1984. So you can guess their ages, ballpark. Anyway, I cranked the volume to the point where my wife and kids asked me to turn it down. But it was cool!

Tonight I'm drinking Trois Pistoles brewed by Unibroue in Chambly, Quebec, Canada. The label has a picture of three church-ish, school-like buildings. Above the buildings is an ominous sky with a large flying horse. Hmmm. Best before 09-02-12.

Yeasty aroma with plenty of lovely fruity scents. Very creamy fruity start, plenty of ripe apples and pears. Those fruits are mingling with a very nice caramel flavor, and I think they are gonna have a second date for sure. The yeast stands out for the entire experience. Tart and very juicy, too. Now, you've all heard me mention the carbonation manufacturing capabilities of Unibroue. But here it was medium, very fine and accentuated the flavors awesomely! Some spicy remnants on the back end show up, with maybe even some cinnamon. The 9% alcohol was basically a non-factor. Smooth, complex and wonderfully put together. This was a terrific beer that you should all try out!

Death on the Road -- Iron Maiden

The Number of the Beast -- Iron Maiden

Canada - "TROIS-PISTOLES" Set of 4 Mini-Mousepad Coasters

Slim Chance

2010-03-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

Tonight I'm going to drink a few beers, so I thought I'd mess with you a little bit by starting with another Light Beer. That's three days in a row, after this and this. "But you said you're not on a diet." That's right! I'm not. As they say, "Slim Chance!" Hahaha. I know, pure cheese! This beer has 125 calories for you calorie freaks. Bottled 052609 Whoops!

Slim Chance is brewed by Redhook Ale Brewery in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Lemony musty sweet aroma. The flavors are lemon and sweet corn. Pretty thin and plain. Some hops so come in and make it slightly bitter. Good Carbonation. Refreshing. Very drinkable with decent flavors. That's it until later!

Wii -- Nintendo

The Carbohydrate Addict's Lifespan Program : A Personalized Plan for Becoming Slim, Fit and Healthy in Your 40s, 50s, 60s and Beyond

Men's Air Force A-2 Flight Leather Bomber Jacket

Kerberos Tripel

2010-03-08T16:49:00.000-08:00

First, the picture is with Sandra Bullock because she is devastatingly hot! Don't argue with me!

I watched the Oscars for the first time ever last night! Yes, really. I could never force this agony on myself under normal circumstances. But I had four 30-year-old chicks in my house that wouldn't be denied! Anyway, Ben Stiller as the Avatar character was hilarious, especially when he was speaking their language. But after 2.5 hours, not to mention the fact that we watched a few more hours of pre-show shit, I went to bed at 11pm, before they announced some major winners. Told my sister and her three friends, who somehow, somewhere learned every entertainment industry actor, director, and movie, not to bother letting me know who won because I really don't care. And I still don't know who won!

One friend was in a "pick 'em pool, weighted toward the important categories" Really? I mocked enough people for a month, my sister rolled her eyes at me enough for a year, so that was it. They started their vacation today, including from me.

Tonight I'm also drinking Kerberos Tripel brewed by Flying Dog Brewery in Frederick, Maryland. I just fished the bottle out of the recycling bin because I didn't write down all the nonsense that their bottles have to offer, and I which I know you expect. Disgusting beer juice on my hands! Anyway, this is a Belgian-style ale and the label addresses me as "god of the barstool". Kerberos is apparently a "three-headed hellhound", which you'll see below in my skillful photography! Vintage 09 the bottle also says.

Spicy black pepper and light fruit all rolled into one aroma! Interesting flavors is what popped into my head. Very petite light citrus flavors to start, mostly orange. Then some ultra-pure and smooth alcohol, like a shot of absolute vodka. Flavorless but you know the alcohol went down! So far, "delicate" is the word I'd use for this "hellhound"! After that alcohol shot evaporates off of your palate, you will taste some spicy and fruity back and forth--black pepper then pear, apple and banana. Repeat. You will defintely feel the warming action of the 8.5% alcohol as well. Not really what I expected, mainly because I didn't have expectations. I guess I'm saying this was pretty unique. Low to medium carbonation and body. You will finish with a bit of spice left on your palate. Check this guy out for sure! I don't think you can go wrong with this brewery! Except that these guys want to play the tough-guy-name beer game. And many of their beers are so subtly fine that they don't work out that way. I mean, Raging Bitch? Really? NO!

RALPH STEADMAN - GONZO MOTORCYCLE - NEW POSTER Size 23x32.5

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (Three-Disc Edition + Digital Copy + DVD) [Blu-ray] -- Ben Stiller

Gundam Seed Destiny Stargazer HG 1/144 Scale Model Kit #46 - Kerberos BuCUE Hound

Two pictures for your viewing pleasure, because in case you haven't heard, cameras don't usually wrap themselves around beer bottles!

Jazz Amber Light Beer

2010-03-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

Today I'm drinking another beer that's been sitting around for a few months. So that's two days in a row with a Light beer. So I guess you could say I'm on a diet. But you'd be wrong. Anyway, this beer has 92 calories and 2.8 grams of carbs.

The beer today is Jazz Amber Light Beer brewed by Joseph Huber Brewing Company in Monroe, Wisconsin for Dixie Brewing Company in New Orleans, Louisiana. Apparently Dixie is still rebuilding after that bitch Katrina came to town several years ago. They are trying to "re-beer New Orleans" with this "award-winning beer" that has a "New Orleans touch". OK. God Speed! The label also has a very subtle silhouette of a jazz singer and some notes floating around on it.

Grainy corn and caramel sweet aroma. Grainy and caramel flavors to start. Thin body and low to medium carbonation. There are some herbal and grassy qualities as well. You will finish with a return to the grainy corn flavors. This beer is a very easy drinker. Certainly not supertastic, but not a bad little beer. Beat my expectations by a mile!

Dixie Crystals Sugar Packets - 2000 ct.

Twelve Nights in Hollywood -- Ella Fitzgerald

Crazy Love -- Michael Buble

Gemini

2010-03-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

You've probably heard I picked up my sister and two friends at the Fort Lauderdale airport yesterday. What I didn't tell you is that since they all came on separate flights to different terminals, and then had to collect baggage and find each other before a pickup, I had an extremely short window to hit the nearby Total Wine in Fort Lauderdale. I had been there once before on a similar pre-airport-pickup mission. Walked in with 10 minutes to spare, went right to the beer section. Guess who was there? Our leader Assistant Manager Ed pouring some snobby wines for some old dude. But those were lightning observations, and I could be wrong. LOL.

Ed needed to work so I found myself one of the Southern Tier bottles that didn't make it to my Pembroke Pines store, like the idiot relative that can't follow directions to your annual party. Jeez. On the way out, Ed handed me a pretty cool glass that was an "extra" from some promotion. Cool. Smooth airport pickup. One of the first questions sister and friends asked was about the alcohol status at my house. "Yuengling" pretty much made the girl from Denver giddy. Yes, she is clueless (about the beer in her backyard, because she is actually very smart)! Funny.

This afternoon I'm drinking Gemini, an Imperial IPA brewed by Southern Tier Brewing Company in Lakewood, New York. This will be the first Southern Tier beer I've tried after my quest from the other night. The label is really cool. I think more breweries should invest in this aspect of their beers. Of course if you want repeat customers you've gotta brew good beer, but this bottle stands out and screams "try me!" Electric green and silver colors with big bold white lettering, kind of reminds me of those foil collecting cards kids have. There is an astronaut on the front, and the back goes to great efforts to explain the Gemini Constellation and how Southern Tier has their own fraternal twins: Hoppe and Unearthly. This beer constitutes a 50:50 blend of those two beers. Mission (yes, the theme is getting a little much): "to travel high & take passengers on a journey far into the heavens!" Also cool--the ingredients are listed on the bottle, and they recommend serving this at 42 degrees F, which is pretty cold.

Nice citrus aroma with loads of grapefruit, lemon and orange. Flavors start out similarly, with pine and citrus flavors. Very much on the sweet side. Candy, caramel, sweet tropical pineapple and tangerine flavors are very nice. The texture is viscous, providing a sticky and oily feeling in my mouth. The 10.5% alcohol will not be missed, especially after the initial flavors subside, and especially after the beer warms slightly and you progress through big 22. You will feel a slight burn, taste some flavors that will you remind you or your organic chemistry classes, and finish with a drying alcohol flavor on your palate. Carbonation is perfect, with fine creamy bubbles. Now, I would have preferred a more refreshing beer, but this was very flavorful and quite awesome. I am delighted this was the first Southern Tier beer I chose to drink. So go get yourself some of this!

Zippo "Horoscope-Gemini" High Polish Chrome Lighter, 9287

Original Astronaut Space Pen - Fisher Space Pen

Beer Goggles Adult

Yes, once again, my photography should be displayed at the best galleries! Seriously, though, you can't really see the neon aspect from the picture. So use your imaginations!

Hook & Ladder Lighter

2010-03-07T09:41:00.000-08:00

Just easing into this afternoon. My sister and her friends are out picking up the fourth for their cruise which starts tomorrow. This chick came all the way from her US Embassy job in China for this vacation. China --> La Guardia --> Miami, a full day of travel. This trip better rock for that effort!

I've had Hook & Ladder Lighter sitting around for a few months, so I think it's time to drink up. This beer was brewed by Hook & Ladder Brewing Company in Rochester, New York. The label says this beer "is the right choice when you desire a flavorful beer with a "lighter" body". They are clearly going for a light beer here as they even put the nutritional analysis on the label. Wow, 94 calories! The label also says they make a donation to a local burn foundation for every barrel they sell, which is awesome.

Grainy corn, sweet aroma. Very lemony flavors to start. Grainy corn and dirty. There is also an unidentifiable weird, but if I must say what it is, well, it's wet socks. Small hops add a pleasant bitterness, but the very thin flavors and weak body are not that enticing. Not horrible and it is drinkable, but I'll find something else every time!

The Engine 2 Diet: The Texas Firefighter's 28-Day Save-Your-Life Plan that Lowers Cholesterol and Burns Away the Pounds

COGHLANS WATERPROOF MATCHES (10 Pack)

Kidde KN-COSM-IB Hardwire Combination Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm with Battery Backup and Voice Warning, Interconnectable

Drifter Pale Ale

2010-03-06T11:35:00.000-08:00

I need to go pick up my sister and her friends at the airport at the most inopportune time, at least from a beer-drinking perspective. But it's OK. I love her and see her infrequently. She and pals are here for a few days before going on a cruise.

So you probably saw earlier I finished my Top Five list for last month, which required no new drinking. I'm sure you all get what I'm talking about. Don't drink and drive, and stay under control!

So this afternoon I'm going to just drink one beer, Drifter Pale Ale brewed by Widmer Brothers Brewing Company in Portland, Oregon. This beer was bottled on 051309. Doh! Yes, I've had it since August. But whatever, deal with it!

Fruity citrus and hoppy aroma, with a faint touch of caramel sweetness. Light flavorful fruits start things off with lots of pear and peach and apple. There are some caramel flavors as well, but a good dose of hops balances things very nicely. Bready and yeasty on the back half of the beer. Medium body, medium carbonation. Crisp and refreshing, this is a very pleasant drinkable beer, and I'm sorry I waited so long to drink it! Try it when you can.

JanSport Classic SuperBreak Backpack

Victorinox Swiss Army Soldier Pocket Knife (Silver Alox)

Caillou: Boxed Set (Backpack Series)

February 2010 Top Five

2010-03-06T10:16:00.000-08:00

Last month I started making a "Top Five of the Month" list. January proved to be a difficult month for me to select the best five beers as there were many stars. February, however, seemed to be a lackluster month for me and what I chose to drink. Listing the top five was much easier! Well, actually, picking the fifth beer was difficult.

February 2010 Top Five

1. Hopslam Ale

2. Hopsecutioner India Pale Ale

3. Big Eye India Pale Ale

4. Ranger India Pale Ale

5. Samuel Adams Noble Pils

Honorable Mentions: None this month. Five was plenty.

You've probably noticed that it was a big month for IPA's! Yep, but pure coincidence. "Oh My God! You left 2 Turtle Doves and Brooklyn Black Ops off of this list! You must be an idiot!" Why thank you for the compliment. (And I can already hear Mike crying about that!) Well, that's because I am not an alcoholic! In reality, though, it's because I didn't really think they were awesome and were way over-hyped, and I don't like that alcohol shiver they provided me. Oh, and it's MY LIST!

Here's an archive from February, 2010. Do you like it? Feel free to chime in! See you in another month. Thank you for reading!

Topsy Turvy Upside-Down Tomato Planter

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Hi Top Black Canvas

Hamilton Beach 24708 Toastation 4-Slice Toaster and Oven

Baltic Thunder

2010-03-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

This week Southern Tier Brewing beers started to arrive in South Florida. We've been expecting them for a few months, but as the Mandelbaums say in that Seinfeld episode, "It's Go Time!"

My buds from around the area (well, Palm Beach County-ish, so not really) have been talking about these arriving since Wednesday, so I checked in that day with my Pembroke Pines Total Wine Store. If you're from Canada for the winter or if you drive like you are, here is a picture of the store. Please try to speed up a little and use your signals! It's amazing you made it here alive! You'll need to get there fast anyway for a few of these beers I've been told from the inside. But as of 5 PM, none were even on the shelves.

When I called on Wednesday, Esmeralda (not her real name) gave me an item-by-item breakdown of what they were expecting, and also letting me know Friday afternoon was the projected delivery. Was awesome! And it was awesomer that she asked if I'd like her to set some aside for me, before I even asked. Of course I said yes. Name and number and two days later, Assistant Manager Brian (you've met him in a coupon clash before) was calling me around noon to confirm my order. Late afternoon, no trace of Southern Tier beers anywhere, except in my liquor box full of the nine Brian set aside for me. He's awesome! Oh, and we're buds anyway since the coupon day.

I also threw a new Rogue beer and a discounted Samuel Smith beer in the cart on the way out. The discount was "half off" the crossed out price of $4.49. First, that beer rang up with no discount, which was funny enough, but I decided to let them know that the $2.49 on their sign was also not "half off". I told Store Manager Ty Ball I'd be giving them a calculator for Christmas or sooner. Anyway, the sign came down and I still had to pay $2.49. Next time I'll take two shots at the sample table to make up for that quarter! Finally, my college math classes paid off!

Tonight, despite all of the hoopla above about Southern Tier beers, a little sleight of hand. I'm drinking another I grabbed on the way out of Total Wine: Baltic Thunder, a Baltic Porter style beer brewed by Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. On the label is the Baltic god of thunder, looking like a crazy man-lion-wind-blowing-cloud-type thing. Enjoy Big 22 by January 27, 2011. Check.

Roasted coffee and chocolate aroma, sweet with even a hint of fruits. Dark chocolate flavors start things out with a nice deep flavor profile and a pleasant bitterness. Roasted coffee (with a hint of toffee after warming a little) takes over next. Some hops do show through after a second and thin out the initial motor oil body this beer had to start. Molasses, licorice, raisins. A little spicy and a little bit of the 8.5% alcohol show through on the back side, both providing a little burn, nice. Low to medium carbonation. Nice flavors left on the palate. This was a really nice beer. I'm not in love and for $10 I need to at least project a second date. But next time you're in the Philly area (or closer than Florida), I'm sure you will check it out!

Secrets of Mental Math: The Mathemagician's Guide to Lightning Calculation and Amazing Math Tricks

TI-15 School Calculator -- Texas Instruments

Bushnell Yardage Pro Golf Pinseeker 1500 Slope Edition Laser Rangefinder with Slope Calculator

The Hairy Eyeball Ale

2010-03-04T14:39:00.000-08:00

National Grammar Day? Really? Who'd have thought that existed? Seems my homophones post from just a few days ago was premature, but what else is new? Anyway, I came across some funny grammar-related stuff today. I've also decided that the Official Grammar Style Guides are a little too strict for me, so I have chosen to pick which rules are musts, which rules can be axed, and which rules can be bent to my advantage. You know, my own style guide!

I just did a quickie search on BFF Google and found out that previously mentioned Martha Brockenbrough, the Grammar Prude and my hero, founded this day just a few years ago. I guess I gotta pay attention to my heroes more. She even received a commendation letter from President Bush! After she wrote one of those articles I told her it was awesome. She replied, "I hoist a beer in your direction!" I realize some of the links on those other posts I sent you to are going to zero-content pages. Let's just say I'm working on it and I'll try to get on that in my spare time! Jeez. Ungrateful.

You will know if you are grammar-tastic if you appreciate these resources that I found today. If not, skip to the beer review and bite me. Exhibit A and Exhibit B.

Tonight I'm drinking The Hairy Eyeball Ale brewed by Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma, California. The label has a small bloodshot eyeball with some hairs growing out of it. Strange! And below the eyeball it says, "HERE'S LOOKIN' ATCHA'".

Malty, roasted caramel aroma with some dark fruits and booze in the background. The flavors are a little different, with a big dose of chocolate and brown sugar right in the beginning. A little spicy, too. Dark fruits, raisins and rum-soaked cherries give a big hello in the middle. Syrupy, molasses-like texture and pretty sweet all the way through, and that sweetness is a little annoying. Carbonation is on the low end. The 8.83% alcohol is noticeable but works. A good beer!

Things That Make Us (Sic): The Society for the Promotion of Good Grammar Takes on Madison Avenue, Hollywood, the White House, and the World -- Martha Brockenbrough

The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition -- Strunk and White

Schoolhouse Rock: Grammar Classroom Edition [Interactive DVD]

Brooklyner-Schneider Hopfen-Weisse

2010-03-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

So a couple of you readers requested a post with another more personal story and less nonsense. You guys know who you are. I'm guessing it's because they have begun writing my memoirs, the unauthorized versions, and are competing with each other for the scoop. So OK. Here you go, the short version, but WITH nonsense!

I worked in a cancer research lab after college, yes, a scientist. After a year there, I noticed this other lab rat on the other side of the wheel we worked in who was really cute. That is when I made it a point to make sure I was "around" more often. She never knew I liked her though because before I could say anything, a bunch of us went out to a bar (yes, the Ramada) one Friday night after work, where I had the privilege of meeting her husband. WTF? No ring? Well, no, not in the lab where we handle chemicals that melt and contaminate gold radioactively. Occupational hazard (for me). Oh, and under his sweater was his FBI-issued weapon. Yep, I was "in love" with a chick married to an FBI agent! So that was the end of that! This was 15 years ago so it's funny now, but I'm still glad there's no chance in hell this chick reads this drivel. Personal enough? (And no, not since grade school has FBI meant Female Body Inspector).

Tonight I'm drinking Brooklyner-Schneider Hopfen-Weisse brewed by the Brooklyn Brewery in Brooklyn, New York. This beer is the result of a brewmaster collaboration between Brooklyn Brewery's Garrett Oliver and Schneider Brewery's Hans-Peter Drexler. So that means it should pretty much kick some big ass! This is a pale weissbock and "a delicious blend of Bavarian craftsmanship and American ingenuity".

The aroma is outstanding! Hoppy and spicy with banana and wheat and lemony citrus. Fruity and floral, too! Lemon and orange citrus to start with a decent hoppy bite right up front. Spicy with some cloves, wheat and bitterness. Lots of banana flavors in this beer along with some background fruity watermelon. Carbonation is active yet is not an asshole (if you know what I mean)! Perfect medium body. Drier, bitter finish with a touch of its 8.5% alcohol. Very flavorful, quite lovely. Not crisp or refreshing, and I was expecting both, but that doesn't take away from the beer. Style guides are "guides" only and any strict interpretation is for nerds. Overall, an excellent beer! I bought this wine-sized bottle a few months ago. There were a few left locally not too long ago, so if you see it, grab it NOW!

What Every BODY is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Speed-Reading People

High Quality Black Finish Professional Double Locking Handcuffs

Ectaco PB-GM B-3 English-German Audio Phrasebook

Vanilla Java Porter

2010-03-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

You might have heard that today is Dr. Seuss's 106th birthday. You heard right! I have read Cat in the Hat about 20 times in the last 30 days, so when I heard his name this morning, it made me chuckle. One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish. Green Eggs and Ham. Hop on Pop. Some other tongue twisters. The list goes on and on and on.

What are your two favorites? Forced to choose, I pick Oh, the Places You'll Go! and Horton Hears a Who.

Tonight I'm drinking Vanilla Java Porter brewed by Atwater Block Brewery in Detroit, Michigan. You may recall the other beer I had from this brewery about a month ago, although I am trying to forget Voodoo Vator. The label has a coffee mug and says "Wake Up & Smell the Beer!" and "Open It!"

Wow! Vanilla extract covering some chocolate scents. Like a bakery. Oh no! This is just wrong! Way way way way way way way way way too much vanilla along with some herbal tea, cough medicine, bitterness and big carbonation. At the very end, there is a touch of roasted coffee. That's it. Sorry I could not finish this. Terrible! "Robust Porter"??? No freakin' way!

Happy Birthday to You! -- Theodor "Dr. Seuss" Geisel

Dr. Seuss's Beginner Book Collection (Cat in the Hat, One Fish Two Fish, Green Eggs and Ham, Hop on Pop, Fox in Socks)

Dr. Seuss Cat In The Hat Deluxe Hat

Lectio Divina

2010-03-01T14:20:00.000-08:00

Does anyone not know that I love the Phillies? World Champs in 2008 and runners-up last year and World Champs again in 2010! Spring training is coming soon and I can't wait! I saw this picture posted recently--how super awesome is that! Anyway, does anyone want to join a low-pressure, trash-talking, limited-time-commitment Fantasy Baseball League with me this year?

Tonight I'm giving Latin lessons. Lectio Divina. Divine Reading. OK, you pass! Let's drink! Seriously though, that is the name of my beer brewed by Saint Somewhere Brewing Company in Tarpon Springs, Florida. The label on wine-sized bottle has a butterfly angel flying amongst some flowers. On the back is some gold writing and explaining "in the spirit of abbey ales of Belgium". Despite this being a Florida beer, I have never had a beer from this brewery. I've heard lots of good things, but this place is mainly undiscovered in my opinion.

There was a huge-ass cork pop. Hold my breath, 2, 3, 4... No overflow. Whew! 2009 on the top and underside of the cork. Big fruity pear aroma, nice. Wow, what terrific fruit flavors. Pear, peach, mango, apple, figs (like Fig Newtons). There is also a big yeast component to the texture and flavors here. The beer starts out on the sweet side, but there are tangy and sour elements in there too. Did I mention yeast and earthy? Oh, and the medium to upper-level carbonation is a very large part of the experience, providing a creamy texture. The 8% alcohol has a job in this guy too: fruit enhancer. This beer is really starting to grow on me. Great drinkability, smooth, refreshing, light and not overly complex, flavorful. Get it and drink it! And that yeasty stuff from the bottom of the bottle, absolutely deliciously fruitilicious!

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Philadelphia Phillies Mr Potato Head

Ranger India Pale Ale

2010-02-28T14:14:00.000-08:00

Have any of you seen the new anti-smoking ads that are being published in France? They fucking rock! Plenty of shock and controversy which might be what it takes to prevent some teenager from smoking. What a filthy fucking habit! So if this French organization can equate blowing some old dude with smoking cigs, so be it. It's not like sex in advertising is taboo, and especially not in France. Hopefully these virgins don't take this ad to mean that oral sex is good, which it is, and miss the real message of being a cigarette's bitch double-time!

This afternoon I'm watching the US v. Canada in the Olympic hockey final and drinking a Ranger India Pale Ale brewed by New Belgium Brewing Company in Fort Collins, Colorado. Yes, New Belgium in Florida! Again, compliments of my friend's recent business trip to Houston. And next month he's going to Chicago! The label has a cool green and dark brown contrast. The label also asks, "Are you a hopinista? Thank our Beer Rangers for inspiring (and begging for) this well -balanced Simcoe, Cascade and Chinook hopped IPA. 70 IBUs." And the date 09JUL10.

Lemon and grapefruit citrus aroma, lightly sweet and very nice. Grapefruit to start, hoppy, crisp and refreshing right away. No real bite or kick though, pretty well balanced. Pine flavors emerge before a noticeable 6.5% alcohol shows up toward the end. Medium carbonation with very fine bubbles, smooth and creamy. Wonderful mouth feel. A drier alcohol ending at the very end. Excellent beer and my favorite from New Belgium so far!

Quit Smoking Now

The Easy Way to Stop Smoking: Join the Millions Who Have Become Non-Smokers Using Allen Carr's Easyway Method

NicoDerm CQ STEP 1 Clear Nicotine Patches

Thomas Hooker Blonde Ale

2010-02-28T13:15:00.000-08:00

Beginning of January I was drinking a Thomas Hooker Blonde Ale brewed by Thomas Hooker Brewing Company in Bloomfield, Connecticut. The label also gives props to Troutbrook Brewing Company for some reason. The aroma smells mainly of, well, dirty socks. Luckily the aroma is also weak for that very reason. Flavors are better. Earthy lemon and citrus start things out. You will then taste some sweet honey and fruity pear flavors. Very mild, creamy, smooth texture. A bit watery, though. This was not a bad beer, although it was plain Jane forgettable.

Mad, Bad and Blonde (Berkley Sensation)

Legally Blonde -- Reese Witherspoon

Wilton Doll Pick, Blonde

I have a picture somewhere but I can't find it. Someday. Don't hold your breath!

Shiner Bock

2010-02-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

I've been to Texas numerous times. Seems that Texans greet you at the gate with Shiner beer.You could say that I never refused and have had my share (and you'd be doubly right). Now, Shiner has returned to South Florida recently.

Wasn't long ago I was drinking a Shiner Bock in my living room. I didn't remember being in love with it. This beer is like the Budweiser of Texas I guess because of its availability. Brewed by the Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas, the brewery brags that "every drop of Shiner is brewed in Shiner". Well, these guys have been around for 100 years, so someone is drinking their beers. Let's go!

The aroma is fruity and earthy, smells lightly sweet. Flavors start out with malty caramel, with dirty and grainy flavors backing that up. Some fruity pear and apple flavors also show up in the profile. Medium to upper-level carbonation is noticeable as well. Not hoppy at all and the flavors remain on the sweet, yet not overly sweet, side. You will finish with a small dose of metallic flavors mixed with more fruitiness. Refreshing, crisp, easy drinker. This is a not a spectacular or memorable beer, but it deserves its dues. It's pretty good!

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Jack Black Eye Balm

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Tangerine Wheat Beer

2010-02-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

Around a month or so ago I was drinking Tangerine Wheat Beer brewed by Lost Coast Brewery & Cafe in Eureka, California. There is a strange tangerine-head person on the label peeking out from a wheat field. Holy Cow! There is a giant tangerine bang up the nose when you open this beer up. If you smell long enough, you will smell some wheat, but mostly it smells like a kids sports drink or an orange vitamin. Flavors? Well, tangerine, and a lot. The label says "A hint of tangerine" and it is a liar! You will also taste wheat. Mouthfeel is dirty. Also some metallic flavors in the background. Very watery, so much so that if you were a kid drinking this, you'd probably ask for more of the drink powder to be mixed in your glass. Tangy. Hey that's it! It's Tang with a lot of carbonation. Very one-dimensional. I'm not a fan!

Altoids Curiously Strong Sours, Tangerine Fruit Candy, 1.76-Ounce Tins (Pack of 16)

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ASICS Women's GEL-Equation 3 Running Shoe,Silver/Tangerine/Storm,9 B US

Snow Cap Winter Warmer

2010-02-28T11:00:00.000-08:00

Continuing on with the emptying of my draft folder, a winter beer I had a few months ago. It's funny. You learn something every day. I did Google Image search for "snow cap" and about a bazillion pictures came up for marijuana. What happened to the days of snow on top of a mountain?

That day around Christmastime I was drinking Snow Cap Winter Warmer brewed by Pyramid Breweries in Seattle, Washington; Berkeley, California; and Portland, Oregon. This came from my buddy in El Paso. Drink by 03/30/2010 for the record.

Burnt chocolate, malty and nutty aroma. Mouthfeel is heavy and thick right from the start. Lots of burnt and roasted caramel and toffee flavors, very dominant. The nice thing about this beer is despite those big flavors, there is a very nuanced orange and spicy and licorice flavor profile that keeps peeking through. Some light hops do manage to eventually come in and kick the thickness down a bit, but the body is full, along with medium carbonation. The finish has more burnt flavors, which I find to be overpowering every other flavor. I did like that orange and licorice tinge, though. Check it out if you don't have to make it travel an extra 1000 miles to make it happen!

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Narragansett Lager

2010-02-27T17:31:00.000-08:00

Around two months ago I was drinking Narragansett Lager, which the label brags is famous, brewed by Narragansett Brewing Company in Rochester, New York. This brewery has been around since 1890. I had never heard of it despite spending plenty of years in upstate New York. Go figure. Well, I must admit I bought this beer like 6 months ago, and it has sat in the refrigerator since then, always being passed up for something more intriguing. And I must also admit I have had extremely negative thoughts about this beer, for no reason whatsoever. But I'm over it. The label says "Made on honor. Sold on merit" and quotes a customer as recalling a famous breakfast special: "two pickled eggs and a 'Gansett". Ugh!

Earthy, grainy aroma. Not too powerful. The flavors are much the same. Grains to start with an earthy aspect. Some lemon pops in there too. Not watery and medium to upper-level carbonation, a bit prickly. Crisp, refreshing, easy drinking. You end with a dry finish. Simple and way above what I was expecting. This is what Bud wants to be. It's cheap too!

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NARRAGANSETT BOCK PAINTED WOOD TAP HANDLE - LK NEW

Haywire Hefeweizen

2010-02-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

Another review from the draft folder. Time to let it be free!

A month or so ago I was drinking Haywire Hefeweizen brewed by Pyramid Breweries in Seattle, Washington; Berkeley, California; and Portland, Oregon. This came from my buddy in El Paso. Drink by 11/18/2009 for the record which is strange because it wasn't even purchased until the middle of December, 2009. Anyway, I'll make sure he avoids that retailer in the future. The label says, "Life is what you pour into it." I agree!

Wheat aroma, mostly, with a light citrus background. Not too powerful at all. The flavors start out similarly with wheat and citrus, mostly orange. There are some bready flavors too. This has a band aid doctor's office type flavor I can't quite describe any other way. It's not horrible but is strangely present. Overly carbonated by quite a bit, which dominates an otherwise simple and decent beer. Light body and dry finish. I'll pass on this beer!

PYRAMID HAYWIRE HEFEWEIZEN BEER HARD PLASTIC TAP HANDLE

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Haywire Dicecapades Board Game

Alamo Golden Ale

2010-02-27T17:10:00.000-08:00

OK. Let's do two in a row from Real Ale Brewing Company.

Back on 1/10/2010 I was drinking Alamo Golden Ale. The label says it is brewed by Real Ale Brewing Company in Blanco, Texas. The label also directs you to their website, which is for Alamo Beer Company in San Antonio, Texas. So someone is really confused, and that someone is me. I can hardly believe that there was some kind of merger or takeover considering all the bottle bragging of "a fiercely independent spirit". One last comment the bottle says is, "Handcrafted by real Texans". I find that amusing. This beer came back from San Antonio with a friend of mine, and the consume by date is 03/23/10 for the record.

The aroma has some light citrus along with a little fruit and hops. A bit weak. Flavors start out similarly. Fruity, earthy and dirty to start. Grains galore! Medium to upper-level carbonation is prickly in the mouth; medium body fuller than I was expecting. This beer is on the bitter side but not overly so. Crisp and refreshing with really nice flavors. MUCH better than I anticipated. I was pleasantly surprised, so don't pass on this beer if you get a chance to try it.

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Thriller -- Michael Jackson

Texas Revolution, 1st Lone Star Republic Flag

Full Moon Pale Rye Ale

2010-02-27T16:55:00.000-08:00

So I have a bunch of reviews that I've done over the past few months sitting in my draft folder. Time to empty that. Get ready for 8 or 10 or so posts coming now!

Back on January 19th I was drinking Full Moon Pale Rye Ale brewed by Real Ale Brewing Company in Blanco, Texas. Yet another beer from my friend's Texas trip. The bottle has an illustration of the old Blanco County courthouse. The label describes this beer as "a distinctive pale ale with a touch of rye malt". Best if consumed by 03.21.10. Funny it says "DRINK SOON".

The rye really stands out along with some floral and hoppy scents, too. Rye flavors dominate, with a very distinct graininess. There is also a very nice little bitter bite right away. Citrus flavors are also present, some spiciness and a good sharp lemon peel flavor. Medium carbonation, medium body, creamy in the mouth. Refreshing and crisp, leaving a nice cleansing bitterness on the palate. I really enjoyed this beer. Check it out!

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Rugbrød

2010-02-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

My second grader got 100% on his spelling test yesterday. Considering all the words we're paired homophones, it also means he nose witch word goes with which meaning. That brings me two ask why sew many adults can't stop making simple grammatical mistakes that oui expect even hour seven year olds too understand.

Four example, won of my favorites happens when I reed blogs and comments wear there authors have sum sort of difficulty understanding the difference betweeen their, there and they're. Why can't the adult community figure out THEYIERE'RE shit? Its fucking simple! Same with it's - its and break - brake and tons of others. Please! I'm begging you!

Enough of that mistake writing style. Its harder to right like that then correctly.

Today I'm drinking Rugbrød brewed by The Bruery in Placentia, California. This will be my third beer from this brewery after enjoying, but not loving, both Orchard White and 2 Turtle Doves about a month ago. The wine-sized bottle is very nicely presented, as usual. The label says this is a JuleBryg-Style Dark Rye Ale. It also says "SAY WHAT?" which I'm guessing refers to the response you might get to the beer's crazy name. Serve at 50 degrees.

So I probably opened this up a little below 50 degrees, but whatever. I have plenty of beer and plenty of time. The aroma is full of rye, with burnt and roasted caramel, even a little nutty. The flavors are a little different. Lots of chocolate flavors along with some spicy black pepper dominate the flavors to begin. Also, the giant prickly carbonation makes sure you know it's there. Rye and bread, for sure, and a distinct nuttiness shows up, too. As the beer warms up just a tad, some smokey flavors start to persist, and the nutty flavors get more pronounced as well. Well, I mentioned the big carbonation. The body is pretty big too, lots of big flavors competing here, mostly with good sportsmanship. Burnt malt, hints of sourness, burp! The 8% alcohol is not a factor. Dry finish with burnt aftertaste. Very interesting! I'm glad I drank this (actually, unusually, this is taking forever to drink), but it's not a favorite. Let me know what you think. Also, I bet this beer would kick ass as a cooking ingredient, for someone with some skills!

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Horizon Red Ale

2010-02-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

Sea World decided not to kill the killer whale that killed its trainer the other day in Orlando. I wonder how this whale species got its name? Anyway, very tragic. I feel bad for that lady. She definitely loved that animal. And I was there just a few months ago, so this hits home a little more than normal. The Orca show went on today after a short suspension.

So what should Sea World do now? Obviously they need to implement the strictest safety rules and review those plans regularly. But... what they really should do is work on their Public Relations plan for the next time someone is killed by a Killer Whale. Because these are wild animals and I guarantee there WILL be a next time. Just like the Indy Car Racers know there will be another fatal crash despite all the safety precautions. Just like I know that there will be catastrophic hurricanes in Florida. Inevitable. Sorry to bring you a dose of reality!

Tonight I'm drinking Horizon Red Ale brewed by Summit Brewing Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. This is my second beer from this brewery after drinking their Extra Pale Ale a few days ago. The label says this beer was "brewed with exceptional American hops". I should hope so!

Grainy citrus aroma with some caramel. Lots of grain flavors with some lemony citrus to start. A little grassy with a dirty texture. A hint of nuts comes through. There is a really good amount of hops helping show off a refreshing light bitterness. Medium carbonation is a little prickly. You finish with a dry, metallic, slightly off-flavor, band-aid taste in your mouth. Except for that, this beer reminded me of... hold on to your seat... their Extra Pale Ale I had two days ago. An OK beer.

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Crap! No Picture tonight. Don't worry. I'll fish the bottle out of the recycling bin tomorrow! Next day update. Here you go needy people.