The Beer Enthusiasts of Blacksburg

Beer #44 - Hitachino Nest White Ale

2011-03-06T23:27:00.000-05:00

Style: Witbier
Purchased at: -
What makes this beer different: Coriander, Nutmeg, and Orange Peel
Will I be drinking this again: Absolutely
Grade: A-

Comments:
WOW! This beer is fantastic, and is distinctly similar to Magic Hat #9 (another fav of mine). Unfortunately for Magic Hat #9, this beer is better and exhibits a proper balance of flavor and carbonation for a witbier ... from Japan! It would get an A if only the body was a bit fuller. The brewery, Kiuchi Brewery, is quickly becoming a standout to me. I am planning a few tastings over the next year that include brews from this company (so be on the lookout for them)! Go get yourself one of these, you won't regret it.

Recommendations:
1) Pair this

Beer #43 - Lagunitas Brown Shugga' Ale

2011-02-27T22:27:00.000-05:00

Style: American Strong Ale
Purchased at: -
What makes this beer different: Overwhelming spices
Will I be drinking this again: No
Grade: F

Comments:
Kind of disappointed with this beer as I had high expectations. Too many different tastes going on inside this bottle. I would have to disagree with the choice of finishing hop used in this beer - best described as a hard pine taste. I'm going to go ahead and give it a NO GO recommendation. What does that mean? Some beers just aren't my style or taste of beer but this brew is just a BAD mixture and I cannot recommend it to anyone regardless of taste.

Recommendations:
1) Don't drink this beer.

Beer #42 - Sapporo Premium Beer

2011-02-08T19:06:00.001-05:00

Style: Japanese Rice Lager
Purchased at: Sakura Japanese Steakhouse & World Market
What makes this beer different: Japanese
Will I be drinking this again: Yup
Grade: C+

Comments:
This brew is a carbonated, frothy, medium bodied lager with a dry finish and possesses hints of bitter hops Beer pours egg yolk yellow with a creamy white head; sweet malts and soft grains lie in the undertones of this subtle smelling lager. Unfortunately nothing really sets this beer apart from the crowd, other than it being a Japanese Lager. Don't get me wrong, it is very good and quite drinkable! It just isn't a game changer for me, which is why my score isn't higher. Go out and give this one a try, it is definitely worth it ... ESPECIALLY for my light beer lovers out there!

Recommendations:
Pair with Shrimp Tempura and Edamame Soy Beans is perfect!

Beer #41 - Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

2011-02-08T19:06:00.000-05:00

Style: 90 Minute IPA
Purchased at: Blue Nile Ethiopian Cuisine
What makes this beer different: The Crispness
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A

Comments:
Poured from a 12 oz bottle into a chilled pilsner.

Appearance: Not a huge head, and what WAS there disappeared quickly. The body has a clear amber like hue and possesses excellent carbonation activity.

Smell: Brew is definitely finished off with Amarillo Hops (my favorite) as it models a citrusy hop character. Smells are warm and inviting.

Taste: This is where the 90 Minute IPA ROCKS! Grapefruit like taste definitely would fits the description. At 9% ABV you will be surprised. It doesn't taste heavy, and you hardly can tell the alcohol is there! I am going to drink this beer all of the time this coming summer :)

Mouthfeel: This beer is light and fluffy. A definite surprise. The carbonation is quite nice on the palate as well. Drinkability is alarmingly wonderful, just be careful!

Overall: A fantastic beer; make sure you drink it good and chilled. As with most American IPA's the brew starts to exhibit bitter smells and tastes as it warms up.

Recommendations:
Drink this paired with a BBQ Burger and a basket of onion rings, I have a feeling you are going to love it!

Beer #40 - Bull & Bones Maroon Effect Ale

2010-12-13T00:12:00.001-05:00

Style: Red Ale
Purchased at: Bull & Bones Restaurant and Brewery
What makes this beer different: The Wonderful Smell
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: B+

Comments:
This is my favorite beer at a local brewhaus here in Blacksburg. It collides perfectly with BBQ, Nachos, and fresh Pretzels. The smells consist of fresh cinnamon, molasses, and cloves. It reminds me of being out in the woods when I was little. The color is beautiful as well. If you are ever in Blacksburg head to Bull & Bones and give one of their brews a try! Updates to follow ....

Recommendations:
1) Order the Brewery Sampler, 2) Order a pint of your favorite brew sampled, 3) Order some Game Day Nachos, YUM!

Beer #39 - The River Company Resturant and Brewery Fairlawn’s Finest Cream Lager

2010-11-01T11:07:00.001-04:00

Style: Cream Lager
Purchased at: BrewDo Fest
What makes this beer different: Honey
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A

Comments:
This was one of the many brews I chose to sample at the BrewDo Fest this past weekend in Blacksburg, VA at First & Main. This beer was hands down my favorite overall. It had excellent complexion, lacing, smell, head, and taste. My two favorite things about this beer is the amarillo hops and the wonderful blend/tone of honey. This restaurant/brewery is conveniently located down the road in Radford, VA. I plan to make a trip down soon to pair a dish with this beer; will update once I do so!

Recommendations:
Liz got us some of the tempura battered onion rings, made with red onions and spicy batter ... they were AMAZING and I would pair this brew with them anytime!

Beer #38 - Wells Banana Bread Beer

2010-11-01T11:07:00.000-04:00

Style: Fruit Beer
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: This is a new one ... BANANA'S
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A-

Comments:
Homemade banana bread + Banana smell + 5.20% ABV = AWESOMENESS. Nough Said. This beer is worth a try for every beer lover .... EVERY person.

Recommendations:
Take a bite of homemade banana bread, then take a taste of this beer. Wow!

Beer #37 - Samuel Smith's Organic Strawberry Fruit Beer

2010-11-01T11:01:00.000-04:00

Style: Fruit Beer
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Strawberries!
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: B+

Comments:
A gorgeous red-ish gold color compliments the sweet smelling (and tasting) strawberry ale created by Samuel Smith's brewery in England. I can't drink bottle after bottle as it gets too sweet, but at an ABV of 5.2% you are getting more alcohol from this brew than you would from a Budweiser, MGD, Heineken or the like (5.0%).

Recommendations:
Pair it with a semi sweet brownie?!

Beer #36 - Stone Russian Imperial Stout

2010-10-11T03:17:00.002-04:00

Style: Imperial Stout
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Thick dark chocolate smell
Will I be drinking this again: Maybe
Grade: B

Comments:
When I heard Stone was creating a IRS, I admit I was smitten! This is a well crafted beer; that being said it loses in every category to the St. Georges IRS seasonal. There is nothing wrong with this beer, but there is also nothing that makes it amazing. Dark thick stout, with a nice two finger tan head, tumultuous amount of lacing and plenty of carbonation. Dark chocolate and roasted malts accentuate this IRS beautifully! If you're feeling advenurous, try the St. George and Stone IRS head to head and post your thoughts here! Cheers mates!

Recommendations:
1) Pour this IRS in a snifter.
2) Have another. This beer has an ABV of 10.5% so be mindful of that fact!

Beer #35 - St. Georges Russian Imperial Stout

2010-09-24T00:22:00.000-04:00

Style: Imperial Stout
Purchased at: St. George Brewery by DJ & Liz
What makes this beer different: It's drinkability
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A-

Comments:
This was probably one of the top five beers I had over the summer. It is thick & rich enough to be a stout, but at the same time it is extremely drinkable. Just ask Liz: she normally hates stouts, but she ended up liking this brew. It would not be her top choice however. Medium carbonation levels, with a large pillowy head. Ever so slight detection of molasses, chocolate, cinnamon, and cloves complete this beautiful brown bomber. Bottom line: Try this Virginia breweries RIS before you knock it, I think you will enjoy it :)

Recommendations:
Pair this with a warm, homemade pretzel with spicy mustard for dipping ... BAM!

Beer #34 - Kinda Blue Blueberry Wheat Beer

2010-09-12T23:13:00.000-04:00

Style: Fruit Beer
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar by DJ & Liz
What makes this beer different: The Rare Blueberry & Wheat
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: B+

Comments:
This brew combines a wheat and a classic favorite of mine; blueberries! It smells sweeter than it tastes, and has a faint blueberry taste. So for those of you who do not prefer blueberries, I can safely say you can tolerate and enjoy this blueberry wheat beer. As with most wheat brews, this one has a fairly large head with a low amount of lacing and a surprisingly large amount of carbonation. Also, it has an average ABV of 5.50% so not a lot more than your light beers. Thumbs up to this brew; it isn't perfect (less carbonation, more hops, more blueberries, and a little malt ;) ) but shows a lot of promise in this Colorado Brewery! Enjoy!

Recommendations:
I'm going to recommend what I had it with, because it was phenomenal! Pair this brew with chocolate fondue; 3/4 Milk chocolate, 1/4 Bitter/Sweet. Dippers: Strawberries, Bananas, Marshmallows, & Graham Crackers :) OH YEA!

Beer #33 - St. George India Pale Ale

2010-08-06T00:20:00.001-04:00

Style: English IPA
Purchased at: St. George Brewery by DJ & Liz
What makes this beer different: It's drinkability
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A-

Comments:
I typically prefer a nice bold/spicy American IPA, so I naturally thought I would feel unmoved by this English IPA. Spoiler alert - I was anything but right! This brew exhibits a beautiful copper shade with perfect lacing, delicious english hops, and an overall well balanced malt based recipe. This beer does have moderate carbonation, so make sure you don't let it sit around and linger for long as it will undoubtedly lose its full flavor impact.

I will definitely be drinking this brew again, so thanks to Liz and DJ for this find!

Recommendations:
This beer pairs well with spicy foods. Period. That being said, I would prescribe a nice bowl of steamed mussels with a white wine reduction sauce including shallots, sea salt, fresh ground peppercorn, italian parsley, tarragon, sauvignon blanc white wine, and some fresh bread with some olive oil or EVOO. Cheers!

Beer #32 - Silly Panda Red Ale Barber Brewhaus

2010-07-02T13:22:00.001-04:00

Style: American Red Ale
Furnished by: Justin Barber
What makes this beer different: The AMAZING drinkability
Will I be drinking this again: Yes. 'Nough Said
Grade: A+

Comments:
On his first try, Justin Barber and associates have created a knock out brew! Incredible vibrant color and flavor intensity; it has beautifully crafted hops and sweetness interlaced throughout every sip. EXTREMELY drinkable, and definitely a crowd pleaser for even the novice beer officianado! Thumbs up mate, you have my vote!

Recommendations:
Take a drive to Blacksburg and pair this brew with a nice meatlovers sicilian pizza at PK'S!

Beer #31 - Southern Tier 422 Pale Ale

2010-07-02T13:22:00.000-04:00

Style: American Pale Wheat Ale
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Blandness
Will I be drinking this again: Probably Not
Grade: D

Comments:
Not a whole lot I can say about this beer. Very bland and bitter in taste. Hops ... what hops? Quite disappointed in this beer.

Do not recommend!

Beer #30 - Yards Extra Special Ale (ESA)

2010-05-28T21:51:00.000-04:00

Style: Extra Special/Strong Bitter (ESB)
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Malty
Will I be drinking this again: Possibly
Grade: C

Comments:
This is one of the better strong ales I have had before; unfortunately that doesn't say much. Pours a cola brown, and actually looks quite appealing in a glass. This brew possesses malty and fruity elements, but just not enough of them. Kind of leaves a dry taste in your mouth, and hardly any depth to this brew. Worth a try if you are new to Strong Ales. A typical old world crafted, American Ale. Would prefer this brew more if it possessed a little more gumption however, and quite a bit more depth.

Recommendations:
A great mix with a Nathan's Hotdog, Sauerkraut, Ketchup, Onions, and Mustard (add some relish to go the whole way)!

Beer #29 - Bell's Brewery Oberon Ale

2010-05-21T22:02:00.001-04:00

Style: American Pale Ale
Purchased at: Whole Foods
What makes this beer different: Citrusy
Will I be drinking this again: Yes.
Grade: B+

Comments:
This is a great summer beer; it's light, crisp, and quite drinkable! This is an unfiltered brew, with little pieces of orange and other citruses floating around ... but that's a good thing. Excellent lacing, with a ton of carbonation. The major downside of this beer is the cost. It's about $9 for a six pack. That being said a 6 pack of Blue Moon, which is a comparable brew, will still run you $6-$8. This is definitely a beer I can get behind and recommend, especially in these upcoming summer months! Give it a try, and post your comments here on the blog :)

This beer was recommended to me by the lovely Dabney Topp, and purchased for my enjoyment by the Topp Family! Bottoms Up, and good catch Dabs! :)

Recommendations:
Some crab legs would go perfectly with Oberon Ale. Cheers!

Beer #28 - Stone Double Bastard Ale

2010-05-14T23:28:00.001-04:00

Style: American Strong Ale
Purchased at: The Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: A kick in the face!
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A-

Comments:
Let me start by saying that this beer is not for everyone (cough cough Ruth Ann). This beer is thick and hearty and will not be any easy drink ... it is a sipping beer that is full of flavor, hops, and malt. The first sip I had, I didn't know what to expect. Slightly citrusy and a nice full brew. It is a fairly complex blend that is pleasantly unique. Bottom line: If you are looking for something new, strong, unexpected, and full this is a go. MOST WILL NOT LIKE THIS COMPLEX BREW. If you like the Bashah reviewed last week I would definitely recommend this beer to you.

So far Stone is 2 out of 3 for me! Look for more Stone brews in the coming weeks :)

Recommendations:
1) Read the description and warnings on the bottle.
2) Take them seriously, contemplate and make your decision to take on this brew or not.
3) Drink and wear it proudly!

Beer #27 - Stone/BrewDog Bashah

2010-05-07T00:00:00.002-04:00

Style: American Strong Ale
Purchased at: Once Upon A Vine
What makes this beer different: Nice Dark IPA
Will I be drinking this again: Most Definitely
Grade: A-

Comments:
This is an excellent beer! One of the best I have ever had. To me it seems like 65% strong IPA mixed with 35% Porter; a masterful combination in my book. Pours a deep dark brown with a hefty head on the brew and some lacing.

Recommendations:
Try this baby out in a tulip glass ... it is definitely a sipper beer, so enjoy each and every last sip with a baguette and a little asiago cheese!

Beer #26 - Stone Levitation Ale

2010-05-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

Style: American Amber/Red Ale
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Amarillo Hops
Will I be drinking this again: Probably Not
Grade: C

Comments:
I don't know exactly why, but I do not like this beer. It has a few perks (e.g. smell, lacing, etc.) but the aftertaste of this beer was enough to knock me out ... and not in a good way! Some will love this beer; others, like myself need to try another brew.

Recommendations:
Pawn this beer off on a friend. That simple.

Beer #25 - Ommegang Abbey Ale

2010-04-22T12:18:00.003-04:00

Style: Dubbel
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar, Courtesy of DJ
What makes this beer different: Quite Fruity & Spicy
Will I be drinking this again: Yes
Grade: A-

Comments:
On the 25th beer, I thought it would be best if I reviewed a beer created by a brewery I hold in HIGH esteem; Brewery Ommegang. You may remember them from an earlier review of one of my favorite Quads, Three Philosophers. Ommegangs foundation is in developing traditional Belgium style ales, and adding their twist to them. This ale is comprised of figs, honey, licorice, cloves, chocolate, toffee, spicy hops, and a plentiful amount of dried fruits. The aroma is very inviting and I just love how it feels in my mouth, mostly do to the delicate balance of carbonation. For a dubbel, this is one of my favorites; the Westmalle is still the favorite, but this classic American brewery has created another hit in my book!

Ommegang Abbey Ale was presented to me for enjoyment at one of the many gatherings put on by DJ, with whom I owe a great deal of thanks for the tasty beverage and the company!

Recommendations:
1) Pair this masterful brew with Havarti or Gouda cheese; you won't regret it!

2) If you find yourself in Roanoke, VA stop by On The Rise bakery and get yourself a French Quarter - sliced roast beef, Gorgonzola spread, lettuce and tomatoes. Ommegang Abbey Ale paired with this panini is absolutely phenomenal!

Beer #24 - Brian Boru Old Irish Red

2010-04-08T10:19:00.000-04:00

Style: Irish Red Ale
Purchased at: Wine Gourmet
What makes this beer different: Amarillo Hops
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely ... Period!
Grade: A-

Comments:
This ale bodes a strong hoppy taste with a slight detection of toffee! There are no bubbles in the brew ... well that's a lie, but there is one bubble every 15 seconds or so. Kind of curious looking. I was worried that this thing would have no carbonation, but let me tell you, it has the PERFECT amount. This is unique ale, something worth searching for. It will run you about $7 a bottle, and you can't get it in a six pack ... but if you have the means to afford a crate regularly, give me a call and I'll be there! All things said, a fantastic brew and one worth trying at the very least; the beer gods demand that much :)

Recommendations:
Had this one by itself, but I think a nice marinated flank steak with some greens on the side would compliment the beer!

Beer #23 - McSorley's Irish Pale Ale

2010-04-02T22:25:00.000-04:00

Style: Irish Ale
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Spicy, Earthy flavor!
Will I be drinking this again: Yes.
Grade: B+

Recommendations:
Just like its big brother, the black lager, this pale ale is a winner! Smooth & crisp tones accent this hoppy ale. McSorley's Pale Ale is a mix between an English Ale and an Irish Red Ale. Word to the wise: You will find this brew quite drinkable, so don't lose track of how many you put back!

Recommendations:
Try pairing with a nice cut of prime rib and garlic mashed potatoes :) YUM

Beer #22 - McSorley's Irish Black Lager

2010-04-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

Style: Euro Dark Lager
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Heavy carbonation.
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely.
Grade: B+

Comments:
First off, what an AWESOME beer! DJ turned me onto this beer, and its lighter sister the pale ale, and I love 'em. Thanks DJ! Ok, so the bad thing about this beer is that sometimes, just sometimes it leaves you wanting a little more flavor and oomph; that being said it is unbelievably drinkable and one of the best Irish Lager's I have had to date! Any day, any night, anytime this beer is refreshing and I would put my recommendation behind it. END OF BANTER!

Recommendations:
A must with a corned beef sandwich or traditional Ruben! Mouth watering :)

Beer #21 - Terrapin Sunray Wheat

2010-04-01T09:28:00.000-04:00

Style: Hefeweizen
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: The slight detection of banana.
Will I be drinking this again: Maybe.
Grade: C+

Comments:
This hef is no match for a traditional Bavarian Hefeweizen. That being said, it is actually pretty good. It isn't the best beer I have ever had, but it is worth a try ... let's put it this way, I wouldn't turn it down if offered to me at a barbecue! It is an easy drink, with medium consistency.

Recommendations:
Have this one with a nice Italian grinder sandwich!

Beer #20 - Terrapin Gamma Ray Wheat Wine

2010-03-17T11:14:00.003-04:00

Style: Wheatwine
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: Sweet Wine
Will I be drinking this again: Hell no.
Grade: F

Comments:
This beer is HORRIBLE, but the label on the bottle is sa-weet! It has a turtle looking like he is going into combat and it reminds me of my younger years and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles :) Ahhh, the good times ... but back to the beer. It has a bitter, yet sweet wine taste that does not come close to agreeing with my pallette. This is a no go for anyone; NO MEANS NO!

Recommendations:
Take a six pack of this to a house warming of friends you don't really like.