February 5, 2011 (part 2)

What ELSE am I drinking? We're planning on having a Barleywine Brunch for the Kentucky Derby in May. Combining bacon and beer seems like a no-brainer, so I've been collecting various barleywines and aging them for this event. I've been searching for the 2011 Three Floyds Behemoth, but I feel like I'll have to get to the brewery to buy it. So when I saw that Lagunitas released their 2011 Gnarlywine, and at only about $5 for a 22oz bomber, I decided to pick it up. After a bunch a other beers and some super-spicy chili, maybe it wasnt a great idea to open this bottle, but I really felt that it was way too sweet and unbalanced. I'm a big fan of Lagunitas' Little Sumpin Sumpin Wild Ale, and this beer seemed like it had some of the same tastes, but in all the wrong ways. I'm not sure if this beer will make the cut.

February 5, 2011

What am I drinking? Espresso Oak-Aged YETI!!!! I had this beer a few weeks ago and it broke my world. I had to get another bottle and it is one of the best coffee stouts I've had. Very drinkable, but also secretly powerful. I actually split this bottle with my mother-in-law, whom I'm slowly turning into a beer snob.

February 3, 2011

What am I drinking? Well, it was a day after the blizzard and a good National Signing Day for the Irish, so I decided that it was time for a perennial all-pro: Bells Hopslam. It's release is eagerly anticipated by hop-heads, and it's gone from the shelves as soon as it's put out. Luckily, I was able to not only pick up a case on opening day, but also a 5-gallon mini keg which gave me a gigantic hangover the day after the Bears-Seahawks game (all worth it). If my wife would ever let me have a kegerator, I would definitely pay the premium price to get a 1/6 barrel of this.

February 2, 2011

What am I drinking? Goose Island Pepe Nero, which I have to admit, didn't exactly knock my socks off. It's a Belgian for sure, but since it's made with peppercorns, it has a steaky, red-wine finish that is dry and at first, a bit off-putting. It was worth a try though, and I'm sure if it was paired with food it would be a treat. I still powered it down like a champ though.

February 1, 2011 (part 2)

What am I drinking? Well, after the Cuvee-Series 3, I decided to go with another Goose Island Belgian. This time, it's Sophie...which is so grassy and citrusy it smells like a perfume. Tastes great though, and if you're a fan of Belgians, this is one to pick up. I've been on a Belgian kick lately, maybe because my wife has discovered that she loves these...not the worst problem to have. I have a Pepe Nero in the fridge, we'll see how the snow-clearing goes.

February 1, 2011

What am I drinking? Well, during this huge blizzard, you need a huge beer, so I've chosen Southern Tier's Cuvee Series 3. An oak-aged ale that is sure to keep me warm if the power goes out. It's absolutely delicious, sweet yet slightly boozy. I hate limited runs that are so awesome.