http://beeroclock.posterous.com Most recent posts at Friday Beer O'clock Selections posterous.com BeerOclockSelectionshttp://feedburner.google.com Fri, 10 Jun 2011 19:18:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/cXgtO0gtVgI/pretty-things-saint-botolphs-town-english-bro http://beeroclock.posterous.com/pretty-things-saint-botolphs-town-english-bro <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/8HiDTjCgpxsqoHfdWVrOeZRHOtxbvpdLL11nOx6pZcOEa7m9ZaXYyc3EzItp/2011-06-10_21-11-43_67.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-06-10_21-11-43_67" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/ehmY2KhxauDmxpgOoCl1Vhg7ZofvCGszE1k0giqRMnYpsd4A0B1kzSzadDZT/2011-06-10_21-11-43_67.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>When I think of beer [and I assume most are with me on this] I don't necessarily think of &nbsp;Pretty Things. Today, all that has changed&nbsp;thanks&nbsp;to the Friday Beer O'Clock Selection for the week - <a href="http://www.prettythingsbeertoday.com/site/node/11" target="_blank">Pretty Things, Saint Botolph's Town, English Brown Ale</a>. <strong>AND</strong> as an added "<strong>coolness</strong>" bonus, this brew has a connection right here to Boston.</p> <p>From the site:</p> <blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0.8ex; border-left-width: 1px; border-left-color: #cccccc; border-left-style: solid; padding-left: 1ex;">The name "Saint Botolph's Town" is in tribute to our great home in America: Boston. The original Boston in Lincolnshire, England is an abbreviation of "Botolph's Town" or "Botolph's Stone". When we were back in Yorkshire recently, we found a churchyard where St. Botolph spoke in the year 675; a 'stump' (broken old cross) marks the spot. Saint Botolph is a 7th century saint from England whose feast day is June 17th. Perhaps a great day to save a bottle or two for!&nbsp;</blockquote> <p>How great is that? ... And their "Project" is located right here in Cambridge, MA -&nbsp;practically&nbsp;my back yard (but not really - but that would be pretty cool too). I mention "Project" because that how they refer to themselves. Pretty Things does not own a brewery, and in fact, they actually rent one, which I think only make them even more interesting.</p> <p>But now on to the important stuff....</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured with a deep brown color forming a two finger thick frothy&nbsp;beige&nbsp;colored head that slowly retreated to a consistent thin froth across the surface. Collar is dense and lacing is consistent and smooth, coating the sides of the glass. There are lighter shades of brown seen through the glass with a very slight tint of red-orange when held up to the light.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>: A delicious&nbsp;bouquet&nbsp;of roasted malts, brown sugar, black licorice and toasted bread. There are some other complex subtleties here as well, but these are the big players for me.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>: Toasted malts dominate the mouth with supporting roles provided by caramel malts,&nbsp;molasses&nbsp;and hints of coffee up front sliding into a dry and surprising burst of hops at the back. The hops in the back really add a nice balance and contrast to what I expected based on the nose.</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>: Weighing in with a medium body, this brew is very smooth right up to the end where the bitter hops mingle with some carbonation to give it a little bite. Personally, I like the idea that it goes out in the end with a bit of a fight. There is a contrast here as well, from mouth to finish, that was not expected but is more than welcome.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Certainly not a "pounder", but this is a very enjoyable brew. Fill a mug, and take some time to savor this one. I am recommending this one and looking forward to trying some of their other brews available.</p> <p>Have you had a chance to try this brew? What did you think?</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/pretty-things-saint-botolphs-town-english-bro">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/pretty-things-saint-botolphs-town-english-bro#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=cXgtO0gtVgI:ji7oibwFYKw:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/cXgtO0gtVgI" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/pretty-things-saint-botolphs-town-english-bro Fri, 27 May 2011 18:03:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/ZY-PwmuSKeY/samuel-adams-black-larger-friday-beer-oclock http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-black-larger-friday-beer-oclock <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/bqZIjtaq8eLeXzYnZ8Yf0S8uT3ZAIuiy8wQkII4sbNOvlT6XTEnI0JkrSRC8/2011-05-27_18-36-16_119.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-05-27_18-36-16_119" height="667" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/fz6oH8CfwK1oxixqcDm4blsJTW88Ia3EKoTdLGkkt0IsfvmQ6DzG2fTgYH77/2011-05-27_18-36-16_119.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>My wife's nephew is a young 23-ish year-old&nbsp;budding&nbsp;&nbsp;beer enthusiast - I like to think I had some influence on that - and has learned early that Bud (mud), Miller, et al, do not leave much to consider in terms of defining "good" beer once you've crossed the line to micro and craft brews. This week, he passed along a Samuel Adams Black Larger to me after learning that I had not tried it yet.</p> <div><span>On inspection, some might think this would be a Porter, or Stout, both&nbsp;traditionally&nbsp;British style ales, but this style is based on a&nbsp;</span>Schwarzbier (Black Beer), a&nbsp;traditional beer style from Eastern Germany that uses a bottom fermenting larger yeast.</div> <p /> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 4.90%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured into a beer mug with a dark brown color forming a one finger tan head that receded to a thing broken layer across the surface with some lacing. Color is very dark, almost black and reveals accents of red and amber when held to the light. There is also a "fizzy" quality similar to soda but much less active.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: Amazing roasted malts kick the&nbsp;senses&nbsp;into high gear right from the start with notes of molasses, coffee, chocolate and a hint of hops.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Up front is a mix of delicious roasted malts and caramel, adding some sweetness before mingling with some coffee, chocolate in the middle and some type of fruit, and finally picking up a touch of smooth mild bitter hops in the end. In the end, all very well&nbsp;balanced.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: With the "fizziness" from the pour, I expected a bit of an edge in the feel, but&nbsp;instead&nbsp;I got a nice smooth medium carbonated body that weighed in on the lighter side of medium, crisp and refreshing&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: I'm putting this on the higher end of the drinkability scale. I could easily pass the time disposing of a few of these with some friends, and with the lower ABV, this makes a good session brew.</div> <p /> <div>Tried this one yourself? What did you think?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-black-larger-friday-beer-oclock">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-black-larger-friday-beer-oclock#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=ZY-PwmuSKeY:oc_1IgLQDJs:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/ZY-PwmuSKeY" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-black-larger-friday-beer-oclock Fri, 20 May 2011 17:30:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/Jkx1ujvEqUo/brooklyn-brewery-summer-ale-friday-beer-ocloc http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brewery-summer-ale-friday-beer-ocloc <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/SFStgna5Hqc00alQTBMCzj7rCkDK0Clh1u7kFHrfwVgef1yd3UCPr11ftT6o/2011-05-20_19-05-06_140.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-05-20_19-05-06_140" height="667" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/W4XBdIeRimv0HetGHCpHA0VTXodZCxgALdpJYdON5ZBHmseV8921yNs1pl1k/2011-05-20_19-05-06_140.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week I was looking for a clean refreshing summer selection that I might be able to mix things up with during the summer months. After browsing the stock, I came across the Brooklyn Summer Ale and decided to go for it. The Brooklyn Brown Ale left such a great impression, I figured I try it and see if Brooklyn Brewery had the stuff or if they were just a one night stand.. :)</p> <p /> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 5%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured into a mug with a subtle haze, light golden wheat color with very slight orange hues and formed a white fluffy 2 head with a lot of small carbonated bubbling action. The head "deflated" after a minute releasing large air/gas &nbsp;bubbles leaving behind a scattered foam layer across the surface with a decent callar and lacing.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: I picked up a little bit of citrus lemon/orange and apricot on the nose with coriander and bready malts. I'm also getting a earthy chalkiness (lack of better description) and wheat straw.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Consistent and balanced straight through. Wheaty malts, subtle honey sweetness with mild hops that add a slight bitterness, coriander. Finish is a nice mild bitter hop and lemon citrus with mild sweetness.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: I really like the mouth on this. Great carbonation. On the lighter side with a semi-dry finish. Refreshing and crisp.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: I'm a fan. This has great drinkability. Clean, refreshing, flavorful. When I think of Summer Ales, I tend to gravitate to Sam Adams Summer Ale for comparison. This certainly meets the expectations I have for a good summer ale.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Conclusion</strong>: Move over Sam Summer Ale - You've got some competition. I plan on adding this to my go-to summer ale line up.</div> <p /> <div>What do you think of this weeks' selection? Have any other suggestions for a great summer ale?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brewery-summer-ale-friday-beer-ocloc">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brewery-summer-ale-friday-beer-ocloc#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Jkx1ujvEqUo:5CNGjtr5hzc:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/Jkx1ujvEqUo" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brewery-summer-ale-friday-beer-ocloc Fri, 13 May 2011 17:34:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/v4OTAK8U7tQ/troegs-sunshine-pils-friday-beer-oclock-selec http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-sunshine-pils-friday-beer-oclock-selec <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/jnqoThpVlzPXb7lxTGiHK7tiaH055NDDna8Qrc1glU6MBjzP8b7fsTThejDh/2011-05-13_19-26-10_432.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-05-13_19-26-10_432" height="667" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/oMe1nwONhGiZnSwMEkZWjbTZ5u0A9iOlXRIFYRcf9NUSugBCdeyrl5Mi4tEv/2011-05-13_19-26-10_432.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's selection brings another brew from the Troegs Brothers. The Hop Back and Nugget Nectar put Troegs on the charts for me and I'm hoping this week, their Sunshine Pils will not&nbsp;disappoint. I'm a little short on time this week, so I'll keep this one short.</p> <div><br /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: poured into a pilsner with a clear golden color forming a decent 2-3 finger head that slowly reduced to a thick consistent coat across the surface right up the the edges and collar. Color is very light and super clear displaying a good amount of bubbling action.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: grassy lemon zest, straw and fresh earthy hops.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Surprising hop bite (then again, it is Troegs so should be expected). Light malt and bready taste in front that gives way to a lemon zest, sourish, bitter hop finish. That might not sound so appealing, it actually works pretty well here for me.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Crisp, clean, refreshing and light.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: This is an ideal brew for a summer day. Great feel and good taste provide a nice refreshing brew here.</div> <p /> </div> <div>There it is! Keeping it short wasn't difficult after all. To me, this is a pretty straight forward brew. Not big on complexity but just as good.</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-sunshine-pils-friday-beer-oclock-selec">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-sunshine-pils-friday-beer-oclock-selec#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=v4OTAK8U7tQ:UQiBZPnS42E:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/v4OTAK8U7tQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-sunshine-pils-friday-beer-oclock-selec Fri, 06 May 2011 17:52:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/5SihjazKznk/samuel-adams-latitude-48-ipa-friday-beer-oclo http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-latitude-48-ipa-friday-beer-oclo <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-05-06/DChkwwlwHsaiJhusFyICamekCuuDqlvvfaqkGorGImBJuFIaniuyuxgooBwx/2011-05-06_20-12-18_680.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-05-06_20-12-18_680" height="667" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-05-06/DChkwwlwHsaiJhusFyICamekCuuDqlvvfaqkGorGImBJuFIaniuyuxgooBwx/2011-05-06_20-12-18_680.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> This week's Beer O'Clock Selection is from a local favorite brewer, Samuel Adams Brewery, right here in Boston, MA. Latitude 48 I.P.A. is part of their Brew Master's Collection. I have not had this before and I've seen it on the shelves a few times now and while I almost reached for, I always opted for something a little more "different". Not sure what d"different" means, but probably something along the lines of less familiar - Sam Adams is almost analogous to Boston. Last week a friend, Stephen Dill (<a href="http://twotter.com/srdill" target="_blank">@srdill</a>) asked me if I had tried it yet, and having not, I figured it's about time. I'm raising this one to you Stephen!!</p> <div><strong>From the Bottle</strong>: Samuel Adams&reg;&nbsp;Latitude 48 IPA is a unique IPA brewed with a select blend of hops from top German, English, and American growing regions all located close to the 48th&nbsp;latitude within the &ldquo;hop belt&rdquo; of the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;&nbsp;The combination of hops in this beer creates a distinctive but not overpowering hop character.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: The pour rolled into my pint glass with a brilliant golden brown amber color forming a thick cream-colored two finger head. Retention was good and eventually broke down to a consistent thin foam layer across the surface with a thick frothy collar. Lacing is super thick and completely coats of the sides of the glass.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>:&nbsp;Fresh piney bitter hops on top with rich malt thrown on for good measure. Theres also a mild spicy sweetness underneath -&nbsp;caramel&nbsp;and cinnamon?</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Mild refreshing sweetness sneaks in just before the piney hops take control. Getting some bready crust in here as well. The end is a fairly strong hop flavor finaly finishing with a dry bitterness. BUT, the mild sweetness takes some of the edge off the bitter finish, usual for an IPA. Personally I think it a nice touch and adds to the drinkability. Finish lingers with moderate bitterness.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Medium body fits nicely here. Carbonation is consistent, with a moderate bite, just enough to&nbsp;accommodate&nbsp;the bitterness. &nbsp;Finish is dry and leaves a little bit of a film at the back of the mouth and&nbsp;tongue.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Very High!! I find this to be very easy to drink (I'm on my second as I writ this). It's a clean, crisp well balanced, refreshing IPA. If you've read any of my previous reviews, you'll know IPA is not my favorite, so that has to count for something - right?</div> <p /> <div>So that's it! There's my opinion. But what really matter is yours! What do you think about this brew?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-latitude-48-ipa-friday-beer-oclo">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-latitude-48-ipa-friday-beer-oclo#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=5SihjazKznk:ihXLvt_pbos:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/5SihjazKznk" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/samuel-adams-latitude-48-ipa-friday-beer-oclo Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:39:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/HyTr1jcp1oQ/clown-shoes-clementine-white-ale-friday-beer http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-clementine-white-ale-friday-beer <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/BtSDhCZ7xUbGe4xHVv3WeyDXTgBLbfyq86Jcn93fT7dN6sPlLtvXCsjWjFQV/2011-04-29_19-37-09_216.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-04-29_19-37-09_216" height="667" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/bZpDm3zMsUVufuTjTat09BZE4o4zffnvKhrdwUR94OFzFOyWFnvcnbs165LS/2011-04-29_19-37-09_216.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Beer O'Clock Selection came as a recommendation. I've seen it on the shelf&nbsp;a few weeks back&nbsp;and made a note to try it, when "The Beer Guy" at my favorite local provider convinced me it's worth a try. I liked their Eagle Claw Fist Imperial Amber, and with the recommendation, I expect this to be a decent brew as well. What am I talking about, you ask? It's Clown Shoes Seasonal Clementine White Ale (Witbier).</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 6%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>: This brew poured from it's bottle into a pint glass with a light golden ochre color with forming a deep white and frothy head at about two fingers. It's a bit cloudy but provides enough visibility to catch the active carbonation. The head gives out after a bit and leaves a dense film on the surface with a thick collar around the edge.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>: First up front is a bready malts and wheat aroma with floral and coriander notes. A little deeper and I get some orange and clove as well.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>: In front I definitely pick up the wheat malts but moving into the middle the orange rind/peel take over and mingle with some hop bitterness and coriander to the end where things linger with bitter orange peel and coriander. There's a lot of bite in the flavor and some might bite a bit too hard for my taste. At the same time it makes for an interesting blend that starts to grow on you.</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>: Crisp and light with a mild body and medium wetness through out. Finishes on the drier side and carbonation is a bit&nbsp;abrasive.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>: If the conditions are right [hot summer day] this might be a decent brew to break out, but I didn't find this one to live up to it's expectations.</p> <p>Overall, I had higher hopes for this. I loved the introduction, but the orange peel flavor and bitter combination make it a bit awkward for me. Orange peel could be brought down a peg or two, in my opinion. I've got another bottle of this and will save it for the hotter days of summer which it seems more appropriate for. Maybe I'm just missing something in this one.</p> <p>Thats my version! Whats yours?</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-clementine-white-ale-friday-beer">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-clementine-white-ale-friday-beer#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=HyTr1jcp1oQ:WIrh3YUvYcU:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/HyTr1jcp1oQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-clementine-white-ale-friday-beer Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:13:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/UfLf3-5wWX8/troegs-flying-mouflan-friday-beer-oclock-sele http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-flying-mouflan-friday-beer-oclock-sele <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/D7h0UObPE3nizEs9j6jjjzzEjUpIIm7vABD7bnx9c4IFuDEAFAhkGl4tcSeA/2011-04-22_19-27-14_14.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-04-22_19-27-14_14" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/qmxoAPB5FjQNcheueGC7S8ZxuTCf3aZTu45MYLOZM1eUuo4WXhjdivOnbeaw/2011-04-22_19-27-14_14.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Beer O'Clock Selection, as I'm told, is a very limited distribution and available only at selected locations. Brewed by Troegs Independent Craft Brewery, and&nbsp;having&nbsp;some of their other brews, I'm expecting a delicious hop-filled&nbsp;euphoria -&nbsp; something they do well in my opinion.Troegs says - Dubbed the Flying Mouflan, this alluring ale is like "pushing our Nugget Nectar of the side of a cliff" - Tastes like hops dipped in candied sugar and rolled in dark chocolate dibs.</p> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 9.3%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured from a 1pt 6 fl.oz bottle with a brown red/amber color. I thought I had a nice controlled pour&nbsp;going, until the glass&nbsp;erupted&nbsp;over the rim with an explosive head before&nbsp;settling&nbsp;into a 2-3 finger thick frothy head with great retention and thick lacing that sticks heavily to the sides.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: First on the nose is a fantastic sweet floral hop aroma. Getting deeper, the aroma is is a bit more complex. There is hoppy citrus and grapefruit with a bit of pine, orange, caramel and raisin there as well.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: This was a surprise and not what I expected. Not the flavor explosion I expected based on the aroma (and past Troegs experience). Right from the minute it hits the mouth, the flavors are almost subdued and mellowed., but very well balanced. It's a nice contrast to the aromas. Up front is nice caramel and raisin (fruit) flavors. Middle slides into some sweet orange and floral hop flavors and ends with more of the citrus and pine on the back finishing with a nice balance of hop and dark fruits. The alcohol is revealing and has a bit of a booziness, but I'm not put off by it here - it sort of works well.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Smooth and velvety with a heavy body and mild carbonation. Leaves a wet sticky film across the lips and coats the mouth.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: If not for the high alcohol, I think I could throw a bunch of these back. It's a really good, casual drinking brew with great balance, aromas and delicious flavor. Initial subdued flavors really contrast with the aroma and adds a bit of a "plot twist" to the experience. Over all, I say go for this one if you get your hands on it. In the end, euphoric might be over-stepping, but it&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;has the marks of Troegs all over it - that's a good thing if you ask me. Nugget Nectar, move over!!</div> <p /> <div>Hunt it down, try it out, and share your thoughts. Once it's gone, it's gone..!!</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-flying-mouflan-friday-beer-oclock-sele">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-flying-mouflan-friday-beer-oclock-sele#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=UfLf3-5wWX8:6gCyNdueQKI:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/UfLf3-5wWX8" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-flying-mouflan-friday-beer-oclock-sele Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:37:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/Wu94AltCcSA/belhaven-brewery-wee-heavy-scotch-ale-friday http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-brewery-wee-heavy-scotch-ale-friday <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/NRa7CYdl9ABeZeyIhSNK7B0EWvTUC8omslnwLNLyL09wTLQFzD2Va3kGDZwr/2011-04-15_18-58-00_179.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-04-15_18-58-00_179" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/Nc3wDuesGm7cehm3zrytqv2WbchjOdkk54bn3Ucb2mwZABasnlrSOWQlo7kr/2011-04-15_18-58-00_179.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Selection brings us back to the Wee Heavy Scotch Ale style of brews. If you've learned anything from these reviews, it's that if it's brewed in Scotland, It's probably a good bet that it going to be delicious. Can you tell I'm a fan?</p> <div>Up to a couple weeks ago, I've had no personal opinions of the Wee heavy style brews. My first was the Sam Adams Wee Heavy. Not really a "true" Wee Heavy and they took som liberty with changing it up a little, but it was good. This week I wanted to get a taste of a true, classic Scottish Wee Heavy straight from the quilted lands and brought home a bottle Belheaven Wee Heavy.</div> <p /> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 6.5%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured with a dark copper color revealing lighter copper and red colors against the light. The pour formed a small one finger (or less) head that dissipated quickly leaving little evidence that one ever existed at all. Collar is broken and loose around the edge. Some lacing, but very spotty and no retention.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: Mostly barley and malts with some wood smokiness. Also getting some decent caramel but overall, a little flat on the nose. (<strong>Disclaimer</strong>: Sinuses are a bit backed today, so I am not likely getting all that is offered from this brew.)</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Impressive first mouth. First on the tongue a smoky barley and malt, followed by great caramel and fruits. Most notable for me are plum, raisins, rum, and a general fruitness. Really nice all the way through with sweeter finish lingering with slight smoky rum raisin and very ever so slight hop that almost goes unnoticed.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Slightly carbonated, but still velvety smooth having some weight and body behind it with a wet finish. Like the Sam Adams Wee Heavy, the sweetness with the heavy smooth body lend it an almost syrup quality with out being syrupy. I'm guessing this is&nbsp;characteristic&nbsp;of the Wee Heavy style at this point.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Drink it you got it... and if you don't got it. go get some. This is a delicious brew perfect for sipping and just relaxing - With friends, watching the game or lounging in the yard. That's what I'm talking about... Enjoy.</div> <p /> <div>That's my opinion and I'm sticking to it. What do you think? Like it? Love it? or could live without it?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-brewery-wee-heavy-scotch-ale-friday">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-brewery-wee-heavy-scotch-ale-friday#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Wu94AltCcSA:QtZpc41Uku0:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/Wu94AltCcSA" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-brewery-wee-heavy-scotch-ale-friday Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:14:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/s67OuHQIh9k/sam-adams-wee-heavy-ale-friday-beer-oclock-se http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sam-adams-wee-heavy-ale-friday-beer-oclock-se <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/rQbsUhsTu4XtHYhXpKu8Q5qiKTn3KrJDxyVlyV7zD3GOGTHrqDL1jL44PISc/2011-04-01_20-10-56_416.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-04-01_20-10-56_416" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/E5yqyx2MQnHZ97MCGzTEFxOP4qeEvf6KVTsuW3C9wcSv3GAED7nAirtCBGHy/2011-04-01_20-10-56_416.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week while browsing the available stock at the local supplier, I noticed a new package from Sam Adams. On closer inspection, I realized that it was a Scotch Wee Heavy Ale, and&nbsp;figured, hey, I like Sam Adams, I <strong>really </strong>like Scottish Ales (so far) and haven't tried a Wee Heavy Style yet, so why not?</p> <p>According to the label, <strong>Samuel Adams Wee Heavy</strong> was inspired by traditional Scotch ales with deep roasted flavors but adds an extra level of complexity by adding peat smoked malt usually used in Scotch whiskies giving it a unique Sam Adams touch.</p> <div>Sounds good, right? So lets see how it stacks up.</div> <p /> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 10%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: I was surprised to see how dark this poured filling the mug with with a deep and very dark brown color with barely visible red/copper accents when held up to the light. The pour formed an active cream colored head that exploded over the rim and had some decent retention before leaving a nice consistent thin layer across the top and a thick collar with frothy lacing that completely coated the side of the glass.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: A nice bready scent fills the surrounding area. Up close, the nose picks up sweet roasted malts and caramel notes with undertones of smokey bread and yeast. Very appealing. Wait, is that a chocolate cherry I'm getting in here too?</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: I don't know where to start.&nbsp;Definitely&nbsp;a lot of smoked flavor all the way through and actually very good I might add. Caught off guard by the first mouth, but pleasantly surprised once I got past the surprise complexity - this is complex for sure. Up front and into the middle, there is the sweet malts and hints of bread crust. Some alcohol is picked up somewhere in the middle and with the sweetness it *almost* crosses the line to a syrup like taste but&nbsp;doesn't&nbsp;quite get there (that's a good thing). The back and finish round things up with slight bitter but still sweet with roasted malts, some coffee and warm alcohol.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Even with a moderate carbonated feel, the brew comes off overall as being smooth with a bit of weight behind it. Some warmth from the high alcohol.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: In the end, I'm pleasantly surprised. It's not what I was expecting, but then again, this is the first "Wee Heavy" styled Scotch Ale I've had. The evident alcohol is the point breaker in my opinion, but with that said, it's not over the top - but in terms of overall characters, the alcohol brings it down a bit for me. Other than that, I enjoyed this brew very much and would recommend you give it a try. The smoked aroma and flavors are nice and I think this would make a great cool evening warmer.</div> <p /> <div>That's my story and I'm sticking to it. What do you think?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sam-adams-wee-heavy-ale-friday-beer-oclock-se">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sam-adams-wee-heavy-ale-friday-beer-oclock-se#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=s67OuHQIh9k:C6MpURpWJs8:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/s67OuHQIh9k" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sam-adams-wee-heavy-ale-friday-beer-oclock-se Fri, 25 Mar 2011 16:59:00 -0700 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/bESV9cmThQc/founders-porter-friday-beer-oclock-selection http://beeroclock.posterous.com/founders-porter-friday-beer-oclock-selection <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/vFmbXwnv7OtFD6WeDgbsRnXfzNSqDYpzD4j3DMZvtALbiuqskfVsB47VEr2f/2011-03-25_18-54-56_568.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-03-25_18-54-56_568" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/6VYGgzU5Eq2GIgt3gzT6o8AY1UdS1V188XMO7zUmsZ4RZYfqy1AOvJpFdwMv/2011-03-25_18-54-56_568.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>I've selected Founders Porter for this week's Beer O'Clock Selection. I've heard some good things about it and had it sitting in the queue for a while now.<p /><strong>ABV</strong>: 6.5%<p /><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured like Texas Gold, with a very dark and heavy appearance. Pour formed a light brown but very thin head that dissipated quickly leaving behind a equally modest collar providing spotty lacing at best. Opacity is pure black on this one allowing no light through the glass.<p /> <strong>Aroma</strong>: Cocoa, Chocolate and caramel dominate followed by light coffee and slight roasted malt notes. It's super appealing and invites you right in.<p /><strong>Taste</strong>: Delicious!&nbsp; Lots of chocolate all the way through with roasted malts, coffee, molasses and a surprising amount of hops along the way. Some acidity in here as well. As it warms, hops become more prominent and lend a more bitter chocolate taste. Finishes with nice bitter sweet chocolate, cocoa and hops. All in all, much more complex than I expected.<p /> <strong>Feel</strong>: Body is on the heavier side as was expected with some noticeable carbonation, but it's also pretty smooth, leaving a creamy velvety film behind. As it warms, there is an acidic burn that becomes more evident.<p /> <strong>Drinkability</strong>: Very good drinkability. Appearance, aroma, taste, and feel are all winners here coming together to create a very nice brew. I enjoyed this one a lot, but don't allow it to warm too much to get the most out of this one. It's best on the colder side in my opinion.</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/founders-porter-friday-beer-oclock-selection">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/founders-porter-friday-beer-oclock-selection#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bESV9cmThQc:iyyUk219ybg:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/bESV9cmThQc" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/founders-porter-friday-beer-oclock-selection Fri, 04 Mar 2011 17:42:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/Nb7cHEdKaOY/belhaven-scottish-ale-friday-beer-oclock-sele http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-scottish-ale-friday-beer-oclock-sele <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/F5l1yn5fcfSdh3wpdECzEVm27Qq2RWWEMNHUgnhV5wthewftsstBEAzvKB5p/2011-03-04_20-04-43_424.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-03-04_20-04-43_424" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/FyFAotPD7EXIIUiFkGv8MlJ6sUxPDVH8tNHkNyzkw1aSAe8hv5vZsphqv3AF/2011-03-04_20-04-43_424.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>Grab your quilt and bagpipes, this week's Friday Beer O'clock Selection comes all the way from Scotland. Belhaven Scottish Ale is brewed by The Belhaven Brewery, one of Scotland's oldest regional breweries, dating back to 1719. &nbsp;This is concidered to be a fully rounded ale with a complex mix of malt producing malty and nutty flavors. So far I have become a fan of the Scottish Ales and this&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;does not&nbsp;disappoint.</p> <p /> <div><strong>ABV</strong>: 5.2%</div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured with a ruby amber / copper color forming a thick 3 finger head. Retention is good but eventyal dissapears leaving behind a nice consistent collar and good lacing. Some slow bubbling can bee seen and turbidity is low.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: Good hearty boquet of fresh malts and wheat. I also get some nutty cinnamon and vanilla with slight yeast and hop in there as well.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: GREAT balance of malt and hop flavors. Sweet malts upfront giving way to a roasted nuttyness in the middle and all blending with slight hop bitter in the back. All very well balanced. I love the bold roasted malts in this.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: A medium mouth. Smooth, creamy and leaves a clean semi-dry feel behind. Just enough carbonation to tickle the&nbsp;tongue.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Very drinkable brew here. Appearance, Aroma, Taste and Feel all come together as you would expect producing an enjoyable brew. Try this one if you get a chance.</div> <p /> <div>That's my opinion, what do you think about this week's selection?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-scottish-ale-friday-beer-oclock-sele">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-scottish-ale-friday-beer-oclock-sele#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=Nb7cHEdKaOY:p2mZK1sKCx8:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/Nb7cHEdKaOY" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/belhaven-scottish-ale-friday-beer-oclock-sele Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:06:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/0_IztsC0iRA/troegs-nugget-nectar-imperial-amber-ale-frida http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-nugget-nectar-imperial-amber-ale-frida <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/OMKl49MADY0dfmf9MJdPUJ9xuoTzI99L7Hmjk2ulAEldDa9iRsP4gSmINkTu/2011-02-25_19-04-08_942.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-02-25_19-04-08_942" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/k3eYFs8su5ek20lpEUXQfuPlnFoWPcg0LXb4qAhAjcqdhKiSCTRxSry7J1Cf/2011-02-25_19-04-08_942.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's selection is one that came with high praise and recommendation. Troeg's Nugget Nectar seasonal Imperial Amber Ale.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 7.5%</p> <p><strong>Apparance</strong>: Poured with golden amber with orange hughs forming a small head that dissipated quick leaving behind a decent collar and spotty lacing. Turbidity is high and cloudy.</p> <p><strong> Aroma</strong>: Right away is a punch of super fresh pine and citrus. Nice lemon with earth and grassy scents. There is an aroma of sticky hops, but with slight sweetness. Most notable is the big pine citrus.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>:&nbsp;Wow!&nbsp;Lots of citrus, with nutmeg and spices.&nbsp;Uncertain sweetness up front and I can't nail it down, but it's there - Tropical fruits? I expected much more bitterness, but it reminds me more of sweet ripe citrus (bitter sweet).&nbsp;Citrus pine tops the finish with a pleasant bitter aftertaste and rounds out across the tongue and back of mouth. Nicely balanced.</p> <p><strong> Feel</strong>:&nbsp;On the lighter side with good refreshing character. Clean and wet with nice carbonation.</p> <p><strong> Drinkability</strong>:&nbsp;Overall great drinkability. Crisp clean and refreshing character with a fantastic balanced hop bitterness and sweet citrus. There are a handful of brews that have made me reconsider my opinion of hoppy bitter beers. This is definately one of them.</p> <p>If you consider yourself a hophead, you have to try this!</p> <p>Thanks to @jimstorer and @m70 for convincing me not to wait on this one.</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-nugget-nectar-imperial-amber-ale-frida">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-nugget-nectar-imperial-amber-ale-frida#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=0_IztsC0iRA:ksZBbypzMk0:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/0_IztsC0iRA" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/troegs-nugget-nectar-imperial-amber-ale-frida Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:30:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/DRhDguh7XOc/mayflower-imperial-stout-friday-beer-oclock-s http://beeroclock.posterous.com/mayflower-imperial-stout-friday-beer-oclock-s <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/oaw5F7gjMMDhA5VylsyGDx7cCKClIrZY5SeuKKsoLpoPiPUMR5SgLkYHmsEN/2011-02-18_19-53-32_788.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-02-18_19-53-32_788" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/qGBPdqGapaSttvHQ7HzNoIykb4h5JuP8eKTAJlXzrxFDexsmd4OihIwLm7w5/2011-02-18_19-53-32_788.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p><strong>Mayflower Imperial Stout - Special Limited Batch 2011</strong>.&nbsp;This week's Friday Beer O'Clock Selection is a Russian Imperial Stout brewed by another local brewery, Mayflow Brewing Co. located in Plymouth, MA (my home state).&nbsp;</p> <div><strong>From the bottle</strong>:</div> <div>Imperial&nbsp;Stout&nbsp;was originally brewed in London in the 18th century for export to the court of Catherine II of&nbsp;Russia. More robust than traditional stouts, it was purposely crafted to avoid freezing during it's journey across the Baltic Sea. Mayflower Imperial&nbsp;Stout&nbsp;is a classic version of this style, aged for over six months to create a&nbsp;smooth&nbsp;mellow character.</div> <p /> <div>Little more information could be found for this brew. The web site does not list it.</div> <p /> <div><strong>ABV: ???</strong></div> <p /> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: This poured into a traditional pint glass with a thick black muddy color and formed a 1-2 finger dark brown / capaccino colored head with pretty good retention. Opacity is zero, just black with no light passing through even when held up to a clean light.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>: First up is a delicious deep rum and brandy scent followed by bits of molasses, dark sugars, bitter cocoa and vanilla. <strong>Easily </strong>one of the best smelling brews I've encounterd.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: The taste is spot on with the aromas. First up is that deep rum and brandy that fills the mouths right away, with dark sugars and vanilla coming in on the front. Bitter cocoa come out in the middle with a nice bitter, but high alcohol in the back and finish. Far less sweetness than the aroma suggests.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Full body with some weight behind it. On the smoother creamy side with some carbonated bite and a bit of alcohol burn from mouth to gut.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Not as high on my drinkability scale as I'd like it to be. Overall it is a good brew - aromas and taste in general are very good ... BUT the Alcohol is a bit over the top and tough to get by in my opinion. Could be a good warmer, or maybe aged a bit to mellow. Aroma is easily this brews best asset.</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/mayflower-imperial-stout-friday-beer-oclock-s">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/mayflower-imperial-stout-friday-beer-oclock-s#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=DRhDguh7XOc:UeaIim_tsCs:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/DRhDguh7XOc" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/mayflower-imperial-stout-friday-beer-oclock-s Fri, 11 Feb 2011 17:48:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/tqNo7tOBqJg/ithica-excelsior-white-gold-friday-beer-ocloc http://beeroclock.posterous.com/ithica-excelsior-white-gold-friday-beer-ocloc <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/M7HHq7mrLlV6lRr7Ry8ufkAUHSsLnbClmMZWL6DjyqqqF9AcWIj5RZzEJHvB/2011-02-11_20-08-40_38.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-02-11_20-08-40_38" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/IPoeOMKmgFuIpiXe6qr2VNcptbyKLFEFHE7uCIsmRqfEw5ALdpYzgIpopeAp/2011-02-11_20-08-40_38.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Friday Beer O'Clock Selection hits us from Ithica Brewing Co. Ithica NY. Excelsior! Series White Gold.</p> <p><strong>From the Bottle:</strong></p> <p>The Excelsior! Series is our premium lineup of hand-crafted specialty beers, issued in extremely limited runs. They meld complimentary flavors while defying existing style guidelines. We search the world for the finest ingredients, and lovingly use them with both ancient and cutting-edge techniques in the most artistic and exacting way. These beers are unfiltered, hand-packaged and bottle-conditioned. Each one is alive, has a unique personality and may be cellared indefinitely. Cheers!</p> <p>Rustic Pale Wheat Ale - A Belgo-American ale brewed with domestic barley and French wheat malts, the finest continental and US grown hops, and fermented with Belgian, English and Wild yeasts.&nbsp; Enjoy the glowing opaque appearance, fruity and herbal aromas, zesty mouthfeel and bone-dry finish.</p> <p><strong>Batch#</strong> E!025</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 8%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured with a light golden stream forming 1-2 finger head that was short lived, but left an nice thin froth layer with thick collar with heavy thick lacing that coated the sides of the glass. Turbidity is high, with an opaque cloudiness. Held up to a light reveals a good amount of bubbling.</p> <div><strong>Aroma</strong>:&nbsp;Immediately&nbsp;hit with strong wheat and white grapes on top with a grassy vanilla and citrus hops undertone. Overall, a sweeter aroma.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Taste:&nbsp;</strong>Sour<strong> </strong>apples/grapes up front but with some sweetness, Malty lemon zest and wheat in the middle and Tart on the back. Finishes with a slight sweet/sour bitterness on the roof. Very different from what I expected. Alcohol presents itself here a tiny bit.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Crisp and clean mouth. A medium body with a bit of&nbsp;chewiness, good carbonation and dry finish.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: I'd say this has good drinkability. The crisp clean feel gives it a refreshing character, but some might be turned off by the tartness.</div> <p /> <div>Overall, this is a unique brew with lots to explore. Characters open up as the brew warms and presents more of a spicy hop flavor. To be honest, I'm a bit thrown off by teh tartness and I'm not sure how to describe this one accurately. In the end, I guess it almost reminds me of a tart tripel.&nbsp;</div> <p /> <div>If you've tried this one, what do you think?</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/ithica-excelsior-white-gold-friday-beer-ocloc">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/ithica-excelsior-white-gold-friday-beer-ocloc#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=tqNo7tOBqJg:6YjoFUcByZs:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/tqNo7tOBqJg" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/ithica-excelsior-white-gold-friday-beer-ocloc Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:00:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/bIjU_W-OWJo/allagash-black-belgian-style-stout-friday-bee http://beeroclock.posterous.com/allagash-black-belgian-style-stout-friday-bee <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/V89Pm8kI7iOaWCWJh9qZn8Q6vGwdzkBfDb1KXKGpbIYMpMfTSZ1w5VCHaq91/alagash_black.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Alagash_black" height="799" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/ucKI8N4YEitmK52eZ5waWWPxUjVLS2Dauyc1vcyqJROpKU4tHdl8iSt3QMpp/alagash_black.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Beer O'Clock Selection is Allagash Black, Belgian Style Stout brewed by another New England brewery located in Maine.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 7.50%</p> <div><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured into a short wide mouth glass with a deep dark "black" forming thick dense head with blanketed lacing. Super dark color makes it impossible to see into the glass, even when held up to light.</div> <p /> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>: There is definately the expected roasted malts, Chocolate, Toffee and Coffee aromas as well as Molasses and I'm even getting an unexpected but pleasant apple scent on top.</p> <p /> <div><strong>Taste</strong>: Surprising sweetness right up front and I'm getting a fruitiness. There's also a definate toasted malt and chocolate with toffee in here across the middle with a slight bitterness on the back. The finish is delicious and lingers with a roasted bittersweet chocolate.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Feel</strong>: Good full body with some weight behind it. Carbonation is higher than expected but not out of bounds. The finish is a bit dry and a little sticky, leaving a film in the back of the mouth.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Drinkability</strong>: Very good and easy to drink overall. Good flavor and all around character. Seems a nearly perfect brew for cool/cold night by the fire.</div> <p /> <div><strong>Conclusion</strong>: I recommend this one. If you like stouts or chocolates with a twist, give this a try.</div> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/allagash-black-belgian-style-stout-friday-bee">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/allagash-black-belgian-style-stout-friday-bee#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=bIjU_W-OWJo:gTPk8VIjeTg:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/bIjU_W-OWJo" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/allagash-black-belgian-style-stout-friday-bee Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:00:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/qTkWAs7G2Qk/brooklyn-brown-ale-friday-beer-oclock-selecti http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brown-ale-friday-beer-oclock-selecti <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/FsjYSMiuVkhgdhXJHQTvsiiTGqS45IQM5lYrJicEUQ52WDtALK3VmMcePUNz/brooklyn_brown_ale.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Brooklyn_brown_ale" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/cwyut1Zon7IuuFwR30AqJ2P6Dzgz8R6mOSLBclEGQ0JB2HycYpZ9khTpaTiV/brooklyn_brown_ale.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Friday Beer O'Clock Selection is Brooklyn Brown Ale brewed in Brookly, New York by a brewery known as ... wait for it ... <a href="http://www.brooklynbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Brooklyn Brewery</a>! &nbsp;I've also heard that they sell bridges, but have not been able to confirm that fact.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 5.6%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>:</p> <p>Poured with a rich dark brown color with amber highlights and formed a loose two finger brown-ish head. The head didn't last very long, but managed to retain a decent collar. Lacing covers the sides well, but dosn't hold very well. Turbidity appears to be pretty clear but the color gives it an opaqueness that makes it hard to see much. There is some carbonated bubbling, but hard to see.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>:</p> <p>Aromas are delicious and pretty much what I expect from a good brown ale. Lots of rich malts, molases, chocolate, brown sugar, coffee, and rounding off with some hops. All working together nicely.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>:</p> <p>YES! Just as the aromas suggest. Flavors are very well balanced here, in my opinion, and all come together nicely moving from front to back. A collection of roasted and caramel malts, coffee and chocolate with a mellow bitter hopiness in the finish.</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>:</p> <p>In large, this is a smooth brew with medium to medium-heavy body. Carbonation is just right for my taste with a dry finish.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>:</p> <p>I rate this pretty high on the drinkability chart. Great flavor and mouth. Hearty but refreshing. It makes a great session beer at 5.6% ABV, and would be appropriate in any season.</p> <p><strong>Overall</strong>:</p> <p>Thumbs up from me. In fact, I believe I'm going to add this to my favorites list. I have a feeling this would be great with a nice steak or a rack of babyback ribs.</p> <p>Tried this one yourself or have another Brown Ale Suggestion? Leave a comment and share.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brown-ale-friday-beer-oclock-selecti">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brown-ale-friday-beer-oclock-selecti#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=qTkWAs7G2Qk:YtO-H8i7Xh4:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/qTkWAs7G2Qk" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/brooklyn-brown-ale-friday-beer-oclock-selecti Fri, 14 Jan 2011 17:54:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/RARzwMUsPI0/southern-tier-cuvee-series-three http://beeroclock.posterous.com/southern-tier-cuvee-series-three <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/gT8CUl1aDyWeTK6c7wBecKDmqa6eOEgs7z6xcAWNzs7kBnMcuC8xdSrqRmkD/011411205205.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="011411205205" height="775" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/imnlgWg4ZJBZ5QkR5GRbfFwwsKbHDVxPqNwEoCbGlfLeg83j1TYn4XlmDhgl/011411205205.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>This week's Friday Beer O'Clock Selection was admitidly influenced by the packaging. A nice boxed package with fancy graphics and fonts... lesson learned? Never judge a book by it's cover, or a beer by it's fancy packaging. However, in my defense, the selections this week on the shelves were a bit limited.</p> <p>Today's selection brings us Southern Tier's Oak Aged Ale Cuvee, Series Three.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 11%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>: Poured into a mug with a nice clear but dark amber-red color, forming an UN-impressive fizzy head and leaving spotty lacing.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>: Off the bat, this is very sweet smelling with vanilla, caramel, and sweet plum, pineapple and malts coming out on top. Strange, but the aroma reminds me of sweet 'n sour chinese chicken.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>: Very sweet alcohol with malts right up front. In the middle, vanilla, toffee and caramel come out and in the back, a VERY slight hopiness and oak, all finishing with an overall sweetness. There is a noticible alcohol ether throughout.</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>: It has a definate bite of alcohol that warms the gut. Body is on the heavy side with a smooth syrupy texture and low carbonation. So far, the best part of this brew.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>: No points scored here either. Far too sweet with noticible alcohol. It's not too bad for a warm sipper in snifter or wine goblet, but definately not suitable for a mug.</p> <p><strong>Overall</strong>: I had high hopes for this, but in the end, was a little dissapointed and having trouble finishing the glassfull. Similar in many ways to the&nbsp;Samichlaus reviewed a while back which also didn't win me over. After getting past the expectations I had, It's not a complete loss, but I'm not recommending this one, especially at the price it gets.</p> <p>Maybe I missed something, but if you've tried this one and don't agree with this review, now is your chance to speak up.</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/southern-tier-cuvee-series-three">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/southern-tier-cuvee-series-three#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=RARzwMUsPI0:i1ZB63kCb3A:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/RARzwMUsPI0" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/southern-tier-cuvee-series-three Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:32:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/8K2muNjxONc/unibroues-terrible-friday-beer-oclock-selecti http://beeroclock.posterous.com/unibroues-terrible-friday-beer-oclock-selecti <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/pqnMbaR14bDKvX7Ka5JIT1qdScTA2C6JtD7dm2O82sVPY5E9j0LCp8ibtxiM/2011-01-07_18-48-19_63.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2011-01-07_18-48-19_63" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/QpDvroubP3dlgOwRUVTCMPnvINCa7OUeK0Qcd0zGHLq9NH3jVgQUGPVbtw3O/2011-01-07_18-48-19_63.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div><span>After a three week hiatus, Friday Beer O&rsquo;Clock Selections are back!!! Seriously, I need to talk to whoever is in charge of scheduling these major holidays to make sure they don&rsquo;t fall on a Friday in the future. That really puts a kink in Friday Beer O&rsquo;Clock Selections. </span></div> <div><br />With that out of the way, after three weeks of waiting, I am finally here to tell you that this week&rsquo;s selection is Terrible! Yup, that&rsquo;s right. I said Terrible!! Or as they say in Canada, &ldquo;<a href="http://www.unibroue.com/en/beers/terrible44/product">La Terrible</a>&rdquo;, Unibroue&rsquo;s winner of 11 international gold medals.<p /><strong>ABV</strong>: 10.5%<p /><strong>Appearance</strong>:<br />Poured into a mug with a very dark opaque color, like a black abyss, forming a huge light brown head with spotty, but consistent lacing. For the record, the recommended serving glass is a chalice, the mug was all I had available.<p /><strong>Aroma</strong>:<br />First up is a roasted sense of malted chocolate or dark cocoa with molasses and brown sugar, &nbsp;followed by dark fruity and spiced aromas.<p /><strong>Taste</strong>:<br />Right away, there is a sense of good balance. Starting in front with sweet tart fruits. More sweet fruity tartiness than the aroma implies. The middle,leading to the back reveals more of the cocoa and spice expected from the aroma, with a dark fruity finish that rounds out the complexity of this brew with characteristics of a wine.<p /><strong>Feel</strong>:<br />A nice smooth lighter-side-of-medium body with a wet finish. Moderate carbonation reminds you that this is a beer and not some expensive wine. Some warmth is presented by the alcohol, but well blended.<p /><strong>Drinkability</strong>:<br />A well rounded brew with fantastic drinkability. Fun complexity, surprisingly refreshing, great flavors and smooth. Proceed with caution, at 10.5% ABV, you could easily find yourself &ldquo;accidentally&rdquo; inebriated.<p /><strong>Validation</strong>: My wife was quoted - <br />&ldquo;This isin&rsquo;t terrible .. it&rsquo;s freaking delicious&rdquo; &hellip; &ldquo;How can anyone name a beer this good &ldquo;terrible&rdquo;?<p />There you have it folks. What do you think?</div> <p>&nbsp;</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/unibroues-terrible-friday-beer-oclock-selecti">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/unibroues-terrible-friday-beer-oclock-selecti#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=8K2muNjxONc:az-_1lsemj4:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/8K2muNjxONc" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/unibroues-terrible-friday-beer-oclock-selecti Fri, 10 Dec 2010 16:55:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/CpI2GkIkFv8/clown-shoes-eagle-claw-fist-imperial-amber-al http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-eagle-claw-fist-imperial-amber-al <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/pQbJgl6cf6g0x4zKTFeJ2VQUwdcEdXJAUu8G1G30TosPZykF9vLrwdSzRKWJ/2010-12-10_19-48-27_838.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2010-12-10_19-48-27_838" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/0AbZhLS3fP4O7jejrxWvuHKbEA3kctduC8w3fM6AIAoRVRvZt6kkasWEIEWS/2010-12-10_19-48-27_838.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>Alright! Enough clowning around! It's time to get serious about this Beer O'Clock Selection stuff. Really.. I mean it. Forget about what the label on this week's selection says.. this is serious beer.</p> <p>You still doubt me? Then prepare to feel the Shaolin Master's Clown Shoes Eagle Claw Fist assault. Don't say I didn't warn you!</p> <p><strong>From the bottle:</strong></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">At Clown Shoes we do Kung Fu, junior high playground style. One morning a move was busted and a beer was born. This intensely flavored Imperial Amber Ale has a mix of sweet malts balanced by over 100 IBUs of Simcoe, Centinnial, and Citra hops, as well as the grace and power of a Shaolin Monk.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 8%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>:</p> <p>This poured with a clear dark amber/brown color forming a thick 3 finger&nbsp;beige&nbsp;colored head with great retention and nice lacing.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>:</p> <p>A fantastic&nbsp;bouquet&nbsp;of aroma here! Prominent scent of fresh hops, sticky wet pine and citrus fruits with under tones of sweet floral malts and ... wet grass?. &nbsp;I can't put into words what this is like, But it is GOOD!</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>:</p> <p>Right up front is the sweet malts, caramel, tropical fruits and something "earthy", like grass freshly pulled from the ground. Then a REALLY nice transition to the bitter hops and piney citrus flavors finishing with dry bitter hops in the end. There is really a nice balance happening here - a shaolin showdown between sweet and bitter. Impressive!</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>:</p> <p>Surprisingly smooth across the tongue with a bit of carbonation and bitter bite at the back of the mouth. I expected a little more from the carbonation, but the hops smack down makes up for it. Light to low medium body with a dry, pasty finish.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>:</p> <p>A very drinkable brew. One of the better balancing acts I had with great flavor and aromas. Not heavy, and smooth going down.</p> <p><strong>Overall</strong>:</p> <p>I think this is a pretty impressive beer. I love the <strong>HUGE </strong>flavors and aroma and the foamy head makes you want to jump right in.. I'd even be tempted to give this a perfect 10 score... BUT.. The finish is very bitter, leaving a lingering dry bitter feel across the lips and tongue, leaving you licking bitter lips for a while after drinking this brew.</p> <p>However, if super powered hops is your thing.. this is for you..!!</p> <p>That's my opinion. What do you think?</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-eagle-claw-fist-imperial-amber-al">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-eagle-claw-fist-imperial-amber-al#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=CpI2GkIkFv8:yKMSDvWYNgA:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/CpI2GkIkFv8" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/clown-shoes-eagle-claw-fist-imperial-amber-al Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:09:00 -0800 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~3/QEvLW0plqfM/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale <p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/BERwe1BTcTc49gzhSsGZqBNvMNSMj6CiJg2roq5Yu1U5lzJnuPC64R1aTNJq/2010-12-03_19-02-00_840.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2010-12-03_19-02-00_840" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/IFT8DkSGRRmlaEgtccJf5oznBSyNuok9wFydMdARCdbHupdCi8BiWNpQZYJS/2010-12-03_19-02-00_840.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/TpkwAodXyJiAFCPQ2BdtVjA3uT1FgVO5dtKLRdrSzglluktZ0ctiOmKyfg1e/2010-12-03_19-03-26_934.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="2010-12-03_19-03-26_934" height="887" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/beeroclock/8SSsEutEjk5l22B9P4lOhjAj6o3n7CdgtxYRWBLuNCMVKO6BExwOgUX3r2lP/2010-12-03_19-03-26_934.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <div class='p_see_full_gallery'><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale">See the full gallery on Posterous</a></div> </div> </p> <p>Let me start this week's Beer O'Clock Selection by saying "Wow, what an amazing week", and I mean that. In addition to scoring two more bottles of the epic Stone 10 10 10 Vertical Epic, something I had lost hope for finding more of, this week's selection is another winner.</p> <p>This week I picked up some of Sierra Nevada's 2010 Celebration Fresh Hop Ale. I was looking for a nice winter seasonal and the label on this is all about the season with snow covered log cabin and pine trees decorated with a frame of&nbsp;Poinsettias.</p> <p><strong>From the label, this brew is described as</strong>:</p> <p>...A special ale for the holidays. Featuring the first hops of the growing season, this pioneering IPA is full of complex flavors and aromas from the generous use of whole cone american hops.</p> <p><strong>ABV</strong>: 6.8%</p> <p><strong>Appearance</strong>:</p> <p>Poured with a warm slightly hazy copper color, forming a&nbsp;mountainous&nbsp;3 finger thick foamy cream colored head that has incredible retention. Lacing is also impressive coating the sides of the glass and holding on for dear life.</p> <p><strong>Aroma</strong>:</p> <p>Aroma is loaded with pine and citrus (grapefruit) with undertones of bready hop and bits of floral sweetness.</p> <p><strong>Taste</strong>:</p> <p>Tastes as good as it smells. Right up front is a nice mellow sweetness with caramel malts that quickly gives way to citrus and pine in the middle with plenty of bitter hops in the back. The finish lingers with dominant bitter citrus and strong pine flavor balanced with the slight caramel malt flavors.</p> <p><strong>Feel</strong>:</p> <p>Even with the moderate carbonated bite, it still "feels" pretty smooth, clean. Lighter side with clean, crisp quality.</p> <p><strong>Drinkability</strong>:</p> <p>As far as IPAs go, this one ranks way up on the drinkability charts in my opinion (and I'm net a big fan of IPA). I would pop another top on this again (and&nbsp;considering&nbsp;I bought a six, I guess I have no choice).</p> <p>So there you have it. Like I said, I am not a big fan of IPAs, but this one is excellent.</p> <p>That's my opinion, but what do you think?</p> </p> <p><a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale#comment">Leave a comment&nbsp;&nbsp;&raquo;</a> </p><div class="feedflare"> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:gIN9vFwOqvQ"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:gIN9vFwOqvQ" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:l6gmwiTKsz0"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=l6gmwiTKsz0" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:qj6IDK7rITs"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=qj6IDK7rITs" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:V_sGLiPBpWU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:V_sGLiPBpWU" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:F7zBnMyn0Lo"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?i=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:F7zBnMyn0Lo" border="0"></img></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?a=QEvLW0plqfM:j8Wfccrjp0Y:V-t1I-SPZMU"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~ff/BeerOclockSelections?d=V-t1I-SPZMU" border="0"></img></a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/BeerOclockSelections/~4/QEvLW0plqfM" height="1" width="1"/> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/310939/MyPic.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lnzG9NN1zX Ed Stafford edstafford Ed Stafford http://beeroclock.posterous.com/sierra-nevada-2010-celebration-fresh-hop-ale