Beer, For The Hops Challenged

Pizza Beer?

2012-03-06T15:57:00.000-06:00

Pizza and beer go together, but what happens when they GET together? Wink, wink. They make some interesting offspring. I'm not such a fan of beers that taste like other things, but I love to try them and (hopefully) live to tell the tale. I haven't had any of this brew, but I can't help to be skeptical. Has anyone in Chicago tried this or seen this? I think it's worth checking into...and let me know when you do.

Mamma Mia! Pizza Beer | Beer That Allegedly Tastes Like Pizza:

'via Blog this'

Boulevard Nommo Dubbel

2011-10-22T20:54:00.003-05:00

Molasses, coriander, hints of cinnamon and clove. I wouldn't buy a case of it, but one or two for enjoyment when I need something different. Easy to drink and looks amazing, but nothing behind it to make me want it more. I want Nommo to be so much more, but it just...isn't. Lana can explain the torment so much better. I give it a low-range B...still deciding...may need another for "further analysis"...wink! Enjoy yourselves out there.

Serving Type: 750ml Bottle
Glassware: Chalice
Color (hue and head): fairly clear, amber in color. Thick tan head, slowly dissipating to lacey top layer.
Aroma: light syrup smell, like 0 calorie Aunt Jemima syrup...not much aroma. Maybe some cinnamon.
Taste: molasses, coriander, cinnamon and clove. Interesting pairing. Fits well, but lighter than expected.
Grade: 80/100 (B-)
Musical pairing: Lana Del Rey - Diet Mtn Dew
Surroundings: Watching World Series game 3 with the wife. Enjoying the company.

Running with Beer

2011-08-26T15:40:00.000-05:00

In case you haven't noticed, I've been off the grid lately. I do apologize. I've been off having a summer...oh, and training for my first marathon. Who signs up for a marathon in August in KC? This guy. Much of my freetime has consisted of long runs down the middle of Ward Parkway. You may have seen me, honked at me, or even almost hit me (I don't see how I deserved the middle finger for being a pedestrian, thanks). This hasn't left a ton of time to formulate extremely descriptive and overly wordy reviews of the wonderful world of beer. However, I have enjoyed a few beverages along the way. In fact, after an ejoyable run in the heat, my mouth actually starts watering the closer I get to home. I want nothing more than a cold ale to replenish the spirits...no pun intendid. I keep telling myself it's a good way to refill my electrolytes* (completely unknown scientific reference). My wife likes to point out how I'm always "taking over" the fridge with all different types of brew. My answer: I love to run and running loves beer. I'm only bringing the two together.

Post run pics:

Pictured are:

Pliny the Elder (minus proper glassware)
Demi-God - Porter's Toll,
Renegade Brewing - Sunday Morning and Ryeteous
Surly - Coffee Bender
LB Brewing Co - Liberty Stout
Stone & Brew Dog - Bashah
Russian River - Damnation
Two Brothers - Hop Juice
Upright - Five
Surly - Bender
Rogue - 2008 Imperial YSB (Younger's Special Bitter)...in memory of Don Younger.

UNICO Microbrew Festival, Saturday

2011-08-09T16:23:00.002-05:00

Saturday marks the 3rd annual UNICO Microbrew Festival at Zona Rosa. For $20 (in advance, $25 at the door) you can sip and enjoy over 40 brews from a number of breweries. This event has slipped under a my radar the past couple of years. It seems to creep up on me at the last moment when I already have something scheduled. Hopefully a few days notice is enough for you to clear your schedule and meet me up there. Tickets will be limited to 1400, so get yours fast.

The current brewery lineup includes:

Summit Brewing Company
Ameristar Brew Pub
Tommyknocker
Schlafly
Boulevard
Flying Monkey
O’Fallon
Free State
Tallgrass
Gordon Biersch
Weston Brewing
McCoy’s Public House
High Noon
Granite City
Southern Tier
New Belgium
Green Flash
Schilling Bridge

...and more...

Check out the UNICO Microbrew Festival facebook page for more info.

Hop Fest Hangover - Tonight!!

2011-07-11T21:42:00.000-05:00

Great news. Some of the amazing beers from Hop Fest 2011 are leftover just for you. Head into the Well tonight and you can enjoy one of the many leftover brews to cool off on this hot summer evening. Even better news, they are allowing you to purchase a beer to drink and then take one home with you. Buy one, get one FREE to take home. If you can count (or do simple division), then you know you are getting these on the cheap!! Get there before they are all gone. The sale starts at 6pm and goes until they run out. See you up there.

Upright #5 - Spicy Summer Saison Treat

2011-06-26T21:15:00.000-05:00

A hot Sunday in June and some hard work under the sun screams for a fresh beer on the porch. Yoga, 6 mile run, mow the lawn, rip out two trees, repair the gutters. Honey-do list = complete. After a hard Sunday of sweat and grime, I believe I've earned myself an Upright Five from my personal stash of brews in the cellar that are only accessed under special circumstances or after amazing personal feats. A fresh and spicy saison, perfect to beat the heat and enter relaxation mode. I only wish I brought more back from my last trip to Portland.

We can't get upright here, as the brewery is very young and extremely small. I've been able to secure a few bottles through various northwest ventures and have been floored each time. Upright is quickly becoming one of my top 5 breweries. If you are ever in Portland it's a must visit brewery. I'll be back in December to bring home some more...taking limited orders now.

Serving Type: 750ml Bottle
Glassware: Tulip
Appearance: Translucent copper with huge and foamy white head
Aroma: Hops, fresh cut grass, herbs, pepper and a touch of wood
Taste: Robust bitter herb notes up front, a hint of sweetness in the middle (melon?), with a good hop bite at the end.
Grade: 95/100 (A)
Surroundings: Relaxing on Sunday evening with Chipotle and a great beer
Musical Pairing: The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Heart in your Heartbreak

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Parabola Day - Blanc Burger and Bottle

2011-06-26T01:33:00.001-05:00

I wasn't one of the lucky few to get their hands on one of Firestone Walker Parabola bottles released to KC recently. Lucky for me, Blanc Burger and Bottle received a small amount and alerted me to its presence at the Plaza location. Blanc has never had to twist my arm to enjoy a great brew and bite. I probably would have made it in soon anyway, but I think it's awesome they are willing to go out of their way to entice me to come in and ~~get my drink on~~ try something special. Now that they've added a black bean burger to the menu, my steady diet of Blanc is only bound to increase.

I get a limited allowance from the wife each week, which happened to be given to me yesterday...and was burning a hole in my pocket. Having a bottle of Parabola with my name on it was all the more appealing and worthy of my hard earned cash. At $25/bottle, Parabola can seem steep for a lunch brew on a Saturday, but it's actually a pretty great deal for a pub/restaurant. A bottle will run $16 to $20 if found at a local liquor shop. Not a bad price at all.

The brew poured black as night with a maple, bourbon smell, holding a short lived lacy head. The taste started with a mix of coffee and dark chocolate with maybe a hint of tobacco. This quickly moved to a hint sweet maple syrup and finished with the bourbon-ish 12.5% ABV backbone. The brew was extremely smooth and clean for all the alcohol and flavor. Very impressive. One of the best, if not the best, Imperial Stouts I've ever enjoyed. In all seriousness, I think everyone reading this needs to immediately head in and try this brew while it's still available. This brew should not be missed. Period.

Serving Type: 22oz Bomber
Glassware: Snifter
Appearance: Midnight black, maple brown fringe, quickly dissipating lacy head
Aroma: Maple, bourbon, hint of coffee
Taste: Coffee, but not overly bitter, dark chocolate, maple syrup, trace of tobacco, bourbon and alcohol
Grade: 100/100 (A+)
Musical pairing: Holy Ghost! - Wait & See
Surroundings: Brews and burgers with great friends at Blanc Burger and Bottle

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Hop Fest 2011 - Tomorrow!

2011-06-17T16:43:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow marks the inaugural year for Hop Fest. I'm not sure what to expect, but I'm thinking it will be run much better that the KC Beer Fest (Fail) of the past few years. This is mainly due to the cap on attendance as well as the possibility that The Well/Lew's may be purchasing the beer instead of relying on distributor handouts. (I have no way of validating this). I purchased a VIP ticket when the event was announced many weeks ago thinking I'd have the chance to sample some brews I may have never tried before. I hadn't heard anything referencing a bunch of VIP status brews slated for the event and was starting to get worried. Alas, I worry no more...check out the list posted on Central States Beverage's Facebook page. Many (most) of the list looks pretty standard, but there are a few special brews I can't wait to try...I guess that's the selling point for the VIP ticket. I've listed the "special' brews below.

Will I see you up there? I hope so. What are you standing around for? You have Hop Fest tickets to buy!

VIP worthy brews at Hop Fest 2011:
Boulevard Test Sour Love Child #2 -keg
Southern Tier - Gemini, Imperial Blended Ale
Crispin - oak aged Pear and Apple Ciders - only eight in MO
Boulevard Hoppy Wheat - keg
Lagunitas Brown Shugga 2010 -keg
Troubador Magma -keg Belgian IPA
Monk's Café - keg Belgian Sour
Southern Tier - Oaked Aged Unearthly ( Imperial IPA)
Tallgrass - Velvet Roster (Belgian Triple)
Southern Tier - Jahva (Imperial Coffee Stout)
Tommy Knocker - Hop Strike (Black IPA)

Brookside Nanobrew Festival - June 11th

2011-06-03T00:22:00.001-05:00

This seems to be the year of weddings for my wife and I. Sure, you don't have to twist my arm to go sip some free booze, dance a bit with the lady friend, and sip some free booze, but I've been missing some great events going on around KC. Will they really know if I don't show up to the wedding? Can't I just want my $50 gift so they can return it and get whatever they really wanted? Can you go without me? All questions posed and immediately kiboshed by the wife with her burning laser beam stare. Eeesh...can't blame me for trying, right?

So anyway, I'm out next weekend, but that's no excuse for you. If you aren't doing anything (or can get out of what you're currently doing) and you are looking to sample some homebrews and chow on some good BBQ, you might check out the Brookside Nanobrew Festival next Saturday (June 11th, 4pm to 7pm). There will be around 13 brewers and around 20 different brews to sample. All you can eat barbecue will be provided by Jet Bar-B-Q. In addition to the brews, they will have some wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages available as well. Your money will buy you a BBQ pass and a commemorative pint glass to sample the brews. Tickets purchased before June 4th, 4pm, go for $15 for BBQ and brew and $20 if you'd like the commemorative glass. After that, tickets are $20 and $25.

Check out the list of brewers and grab a ticket at http://brooksidebeerfestival.com/.

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[Continued] Deschutes+Boulevard introduce White IPA Collaboration to Portland

2011-06-02T23:43:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, I threw up a post about having the strange luck of showing up in Portland the night Deschutes and Boulevard roll out their collaboration to the public. The blind squirrel finds a nut, eh? They weren't serving the final product, but one of three "test" batches. I decided to capitalize on my good fortune and shoot over to Green Dragon to try the brew. It poured a nice hazy orange, looks very unfiltered, with a light and thin head. Smells of sage and maybe a hint of lemon grass. The taste was very sage, almost a bit much, with hints of fresh cut grass, a saison/wheat flavor backbone, with a teeny bit of hop flavor. I question the "IPA" in the name a bit, but maybe the hops were hidden well by the sage and other spices.

Overall, the brew didn't knock me off my chair or anything, but I was pretty happy and was left very refreshed. To be honest, I can't recall tasting anything quite like it, so I'm not really sure what to compare it to...and being unique is a great thing in a industry with 1700 breweries. Again, this was only a test brew, so I expect the final product to be a little different, maybe a bit more refined. I definitely like where this beer is headed and can't wait for it's release later in the year. I'm drooling already...

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Imbibilicious, out.

Deschutes+Boulevard introduce White IPA Collaboration to Portland

2011-05-27T20:05:00.003-05:00

Boulevard brew master, Steven Pauwels, found himself amongst welcoming Portlanders at Deschutes Portland Brew Pub and Green Dragon Bistro and Pub on Thursday. The crowd was able to enjoy the latest collaboration b/w Deschutes and Boulevard breweries. Unfortunately, most (all) of Kansas City missed the event...yet, by some twist of fate, I happened to fly into Portland Thursday night to visit family (and drink some amazing Northwest brews with JK). I was not able to attend the meet the brewer event either, but will be able to grab the "test" collaboration at Deschutes and/or Green Dragon tonight, barring they don't run out b/w now and then. If, nay, when I get my hands on some of this amazing collaborative brew, I'll report back to the KC crowd asap. (teasing) I guess it pays to have family in Portland, eh?

Check out a great synopsis on OregonLive.com:

http://blog.oregonlive.com/thebeerhere/2011/05/deschutes_boulevard_brewers_in.html

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Brew News - The Best New Beers of Spring (and Summer)

2011-05-21T12:28:00.002-05:00

Hot off the presses from Esquire (yes, really):

http://www.esquire.com/the-side/food-and-drink/best-spring-beers-040811?src=nl&mag=esq&list=nl_enl_fdr_non_041111_spring-beers&kw=ist#fbIndex1

It’s a Top 6 list that contains the typical summer seasonal beers made with citrus fruits or herbs like coriander, but does have some interesting choices that are ”outside the traditional summer ale box” (i.e. summer shandy or wheat beer with orange slice – not to name any names). Personally, we’re stoked to try the Flying Dog Backyard Ale, Moylan’s Orange & Black, and Souther Tier Hop Sun asap.

For those on their maiden voyage to the craft beer frontier, spring or summer beers are traditionally beers that are considered “refreshing” – light, crisp beers with floral, grassy, fruity, or “clean” notes. Traditionally they are less malty, more hoppy, and leave the beer drinker less full after a session. The smoky/spiciness of BBQ and grilled meats often pairs well with these types of beers.

If you live in any of the Great Lakes states, you should have no problem finding these beers. If you live in the Chicagoland area specifically, the majority of these beers can be found on the shelves at Binny’s.

Stone Emphasizes Ingredients in Farming

2011-05-19T00:45:00.001-05:00

Just like it brews, Stone is doing what it wants and is sticking to it. They expanded to Missouri and threw an amazing shindig, but that was a month ago. Tuesday, Greg Koch announced a $26 million dollar expansion, including a venture into farming. Sure, many breweries have purchased a farm to support their brewing, but this is different. Stone is planning a small-scale farm to provide a steady supply of organic and sustainable produce to the Stone World Bistro and Gardens.

If you haven't had the chance to head to Stone Brewing in Mendocino, then you haven't been able to experience the amazing World Bistro and Garders at their brewing facility. It's absolutely amazing and worth the trip to Cali. My wife and I made it there in February and were so happy with the experience, we are planning a second one. Their focus on the local, organic food as well as 32 craft beers and a great wine list from the region was second to none. I was able to enjoy Pliny the Elder on draught and paired it with some amazing spiced tempeh and brocolli stir fry. My wife doesn't even like beer and she wants to go back.

For those of you that don't know, my wife and I do not eat meat or dairy. It's hard to find great, healthy food at locations that have a good beer list. Great beer locations tend to focus on greasy, meat specific items, which can dull tasting senses and make me question the quality of ingredients from which the beer is created. Stone does things differently. The World Bistro is the number one purchaser of local, small-farm organic produce in San Diego County. Each meal at the World Bistro and Gardens is created with high quality, local, organic ingredients, allowing for meat and dairy free options if needed. Experiencing the flavor of the ingredients made me respect their beer all the more. If they were concerned with healthy, whole food eating, they would probably reciprocate that care in their brewing ingredients. The farm will certainly further Stone's idea that beer, as well as food, should come from quality ingredients and have minimal impact on the environment.

The farm isn't meant to be a platform of profitability, but to provide organic and sustainable produce for it's World Bistro (and new restaurant in central San Diego), as well as providing education to the local community. Educational field trips for local schools as well as a venue for special events are slated for the futre. It is said that the farm WILL NOT be used for hop growing. Judging from the recent growth and expansion, I'm sure Stone will soon be purchasing something for hop specific farming down the road.

Along with the farm purchase, Stone is also expanding it's home footprint to almost double in size. They are planning a boutique hotel and a second restaurant location in central San Diego. I can't wait to visit in 2013 and stay at the Stone hotel. You think they will have Arrogant Bastard on tap in each room? I'll cross my fingers just in case. Wink!

See you out there.

Deschutes and Boulevard Announce Collaboration

2011-05-17T12:55:00.003-05:00

Deschutes Brewery and Boulevard Brewery have announced that they will be collaborating on a beer this summer, to be brewed separately at both breweries and released simultaneously to the thirsty masses. First thought? Marty McFly and Doc Brown; two great forces coming together, complimenting each other in order to produce a truly epic result (“Ronald Reagan?!?!” The actor?!?!”).

For those unfamiliar with Deschutes Brewery, you should feel sad – located in Bend, Oregon, the brewery has long had a reputation for “pushing the envelope” and changing the beer drinking populous in its corner of the continent. Typically, its beers are hoppy ales, with a focus on using technology, high quality ingredients, and innovation to deliver such masterpieces as “The Abyss”. If you can find their beers, buy them.

Equally innovative and equally delicious, Boulevard Brewing Company in Kansas City, MO, has grown to become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest, dedicated to producing beers that have changed the Midwest drinking landscape and contributing to sleepless nights for that Evil Empire located four hours due East. They produce such innovative beers as their limited edition Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ), their Chocolate Ale, and their Harvest Dance wheat wine.

Each beer will be produced as a white IPA, but will be slightly different in taste and will be distributed as offerings in each brewer’s latest series of beers – number 2 in the Conflux collaboration series for Deschutes, and Collaboration No. 2 in Boulevard’s Smokestack series.

Folks, get excited, mark your calendars, and start cleaning your tulip glasses – this, you do not want to miss.

Has Macro Brew Advertising Met its Match?

2011-05-17T12:35:00.002-05:00

http://beernews.org/2011/05/breckenridge-brewery-mocks-big-beer-marketing-in-new-tv-campaign/

And now we finally have our first open mocking of large breweries and their use of advertising to sell an inferior product. Kudos to you Breckenridge Brewery and let it be known that we admire your stones! While they will only air the spots locally in Denver, they WILL air during Broncos games (if the NFL owners don’t pull a 1994 MLB), which of course traditionally caters to a crowd laden with “blue mountain” drinkers and auto-tuned friends chirping about their shitty light beer. Thankfully the power of the Internets will make this thing go viral:

Breckenridge Brewery – Sevendrupple Hopped

Breckenridge Brewery – If you touch it and it’s cold…

Breckenridge Brewery – Gravity Activated Pouring

Breckenridge Brewery – Cold is not a Flavor

Brew Review - Upright Seven

2011-05-15T16:52:00.003-05:00

1) “Whoa, what was that? Not what I expected”
2) “Not bad, I’ll have a few more tastes”
3) “Put some music on, I’m ready to get down on this beer”

If you’ve had Upright Brewing Company’s “Seven” brew, you might have experienced the same three steps of drinking Seven that I did. With an increasingly sparkling reputation on the West Coast, the tiny, yet brilliant Upright Brewing has been making unique, farmhouse-inspired beers that blur the lines between beer styles and challenge a drinker’s taste buds – and Seven is no different. I was drawn to this beer by three things: my buddy Chip actually bringing it to my house, the beautiful 750 ml bottle and simple label, and the mystery shrouding a beer simply named with a number (and a lucky one at that).

Seven pours a strong golden color and leaves a massive, dense white head that lingers in the glass. The smell is nice and flowery with citrus and a hint of hops. The taste, however, is where the shock is experienced – that first taste is surprisingly bitter/sour with some spiciness which had me believing that this was a traditional sour ale, and leaving me second guessing what I was expecting to drink. However, I noticed that after that initial shock, the sip mellowed and left a nice aftertaste and good mouth feel. The taste was sweet, hoppy, and citrusy with a strong initial hit followed by a mellow lingering aftertaste. The beer, like Upright’s other beers, uses saison yeast and four kinds of hops to get its unique taste and characteristics, and results in a farmhouse ale definitely worth trying. After a few more sips of this 8%’er, it was time to “do work”, listen to some Elliott Smith, and toss it back.

For those interested in expanding their farmhouse horizons, Upright is traditionally hard to get East of the Rockies, but can be purchased via various specialty shops on the Inter Web - take a look at www.northwestliquidgold.com

Serving Type: 750 ml bottle
Glassware: Goose Island chalice
Color (hue and head): rich, golden color; thick, white head that lingers
Aroma: flowery, citrusy, hoppy, sweetness
Taste: Initial bitterness, spiciness, sweet, hoppy, citrus
Grade: 92/100 (A-)
Musical Pairing: Elliott Smith – Waltz #2

Brew Review - Nectar IPA

2011-05-14T18:49:00.003-05:00

Sweet nectar of the gods, this is good! Spring is here (finally) and it's time to give those spring flowers something to hope for. I rarely get the opportunity to enjoy a lazy Saturday afternoon, but I'm taking full advantage and assisting my attempt to catch up on some reading with a Nectar Ales Nectar IPA. The brew pours a light copper, orange with a good head that dissipates quick. It carries a clean hop aroma, but exudes more the sweet and floral as opposed to northwest pine forest. Makes me think spring/summer thoughts, where as the other IPAs tend to push me in the direction of pine and fall aromas. Yeah, the temp took a wicked spring dip into the 40s and 50s, but the Nectar IPA has a caramel backbone and medium body that suits the cooler spring days just fine. Clean finish and quite enjoyable. I will be picking up another 6 pack from Mike's Wine and Spirit soon. It's my neighborhood brew (crack) dealer...hope to see you there soon.

Serving Type: 6 pack/12oz bottle

Glassware: Tulip

Color (hue and head): light copper, orange; thick head, quickly dissipates.

Aroma: sweet, floral, hops.

Taste: fresh cut grass, spring flowers; caramel, light malt; medium body.

Grade: 93/100 (A-)

Musical pairing: Matt and Kim - Daylight

Surroundings: Lazy Saturday enjoying some brew, book, blog and boxer (dog).

Economic Win - Seeing Good in Bad

2011-05-04T23:20:00.000-05:00

As gas prices increase at the rate of housing in it's prime, remember you can always get some good brew cheap. No, you don't have to sacrifice as your wife decreases your weekly beer allowance to fill up the tank. Pick up a Lagunitas Hop Stoopid or a Stone IPA. Both set at 3.99 (roughly the cost of a gallon of gas) will get you a bomber (22oz) of amazingly tasty brew. I can't argue with that! Just picked up two at Mike's Wine & Spirits at 85th and Wornall. If you got a few more bucks to spend, grab Stone's Cali-Belgique or a Lagunitas Wilco Tango Foxtrot (Imperial Brown Ale? WTF!?!?) at 5.99. If you're in saving mode, you don't have to settle for a 30 pack of watered down messiness. As things get tight, we can still get great micro brew at good cost. See you out there, kiddos.

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There's a Stone in my Heart

2011-04-21T16:54:00.001-05:00

The Stone crew has been missing from KC for 12 hours, and I already feel a missing place in my heart. Typically, spending two days with someone makes me want to get away from them and breathe. Not the case today. Attending many of the Stone Week events on Tuesday and Wednesday has only solidified a place in my heart for them. I had never experienced such an event before.

Over multiple trips out west, I have tasted their offerings and enjoyed them. I wondered what would happen if I had access year round. I know people who have moved to the mountains to hike and bike and ski, but ended up doing the same things they did when they were in KC. It always angered me that they had all this access to things Kansas City didn't have to offer and somehow squandered those opportunities. I now see the predicament. Stone is here in KC, but will my mouth water as it did when traveled to get my hands on their beer? Over the past two days, I have imbibed in nearly every option they had to offer, so now do I go back to my previous exploits? No. I'm already craving another Cali-Belgique like a bad crack habit. I'm going to give into those desires and get myself a few bottles for those times I need to submit to "the shakes" and remember when the face of Stone was here.

P.S.: Dear citizens of St. Louis, enjoy the next two days and all the festivities Stone Week-Missouri has to offer. I miss the Greg Face already.

Stone Saves Kansas City from Fizzy Yellow Beer

2011-04-20T00:11:00.006-05:00

Stone week, Missouri has begun. The quest of introducing Stone's fine ales to Missouri will continue in Kansas City through Wednesday, followed by 2 days in St. Louis. Amazing. Blanc, Saucer, Riot Room. Amazing. The Stone crew, especially co-founder, Greg Koch, seemed to be on a mission to save the world from "fizzy yellow beer" and we should all thank him for it. I've not seen anything like it and I hope to see more.

If you didn't get a chance to hang out with the Stone crew today and enjoy some great brews, there's still time. Be sure to check the schedule below and come out Wednesday. I'm thinking Swagger for lunch, Flying Saucer for a little happy hour, insert WAKA kickball games at 730* and finally The Foundry for total tap tower takeover. See you there, Kansas City? I hope so.

*Kickball is an unofficial stop for Stone Week. Attendance is optional for you and required for me. Stone brews will be in my cooler, none the less.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011 - Kansas City
11am - 12pm: Lukas Liquor Superstore

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Greg and Nate!

12pm - 1pm: Royal Liquors

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Greg and Nate!

1:30pm-3pm: Swagger

Stone Smoked Porter
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels

3:30 - 5pm: Gomer's South

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Team Stone!

6:30 - 7:45pm: Flying Saucer

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers
Stone Smoked Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone 14th Anniversary Emperial IPA
2010 Double Bastard Ale
2011 Stone Old Guardian BELGO Barley Wine
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

8pm: The Foundry

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers
Stone Smoked Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone 14th Anniversary Emperial IPA
2010 Double Bastard Ale
2011 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2010 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2009 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2007 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

Stone Week, Missouri - Who's Comin' With?

2011-04-17T17:14:00.003-05:00

I'm sure you've all heard the amazing news by now. Stone Brewing is entering the Missouri market. Tuesday is the big day, kicking off "Stone Week" for the thirsty crowd of KC. Multiple locations around KC will be hosting parties featuring some special Stone brews that are rare even to the experienced Stone drinker. You're guaranteed to have a good time and enjoy some great beer. I'll be heading to Flying Saucer from 5 to 7pm, Tuesday evening, where Stone's co-founder and CEO, Greg Koch, is said to be pouring beers and taking names. Greg will be travelling to many of the party locations. Maybe he'll follow me to The Riot Room at 7:30? Who knows? What I do know is that I'd like to see a bunch of you up there, so make it happen Kansas City!! If you're not able to join me on Tuesday, check out the schedule below and try something new at your favorite spot. I'll be hitting something on Wednesday...most likely The Foundry, where Stone is taking over the taps, serving an epic 23 different beers!! See you there.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011 - Kansas City

12pm - 1pm: Gomer's Midtown

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Greg and Nate!

1pm - 2pm: Blanc Burgers & Bottles

Stone Pale Ale in bottles
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone IPA in bottles
Arrogant Bastard Ale
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA in bottles
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale

3:30 - 4pm: Waldo Pizza

Stone Pale Ale
Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

5pm - 7pm: Flying Saucer

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers
Stone Smoked Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone 14th Anniversary Emperial IPA
2010 Double Bastard Ale
2011 Stone Old Guardian BELGO Barley Wine
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

7:30pm : The Riot Room

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2010 Double Bastard Ale

Wednesday, April 20, 2011 - Kansas City
11am - 12pm: Lukas Liquor Superstore

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Greg and Nate!

12pm - 1pm: Royal Liquors

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Greg and Nate!

1:30pm-3pm: Swagger

Stone Smoked Porter
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels

3:30 - 5pm: Gomer's South

Stone DVD and bottle signing with Team Stone!

6:30 - 7:45pm: Flying Saucer

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers
Stone Smoked Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone 14th Anniversary Emperial IPA
2010 Double Bastard Ale
2011 Stone Old Guardian BELGO Barley Wine
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

8pm: The Foundry

Stone Pale Ale
Stone Smoked Porter
Stone Smoked Porter with Vanilla Beans
Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers
Stone Smoked Porter Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Stone IPA
Double Dry Hopped Stone IPA
Arrogant Bastard Ale
Arrogant Bastard Ale Aged in Bourbon Barrels
OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale
Stone Levitation Ale
Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone Ruination IPA
Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Double Dry Hopped Stone Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone 14th Anniversary Emperial IPA
2010 Double Bastard Ale
2011 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2010 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2009 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2007 Stone Old Guardian Barley Wine
2010 Stone Imperial Russian Stout
2008 Stone Imperial Russian Stout Aged in Bourbon Barrels

Be sure to check out Beer, For the Hops Challenged on facebook to learn more about Kansas City/Chicago brews, news, and fun. Thanks for reading.

Brew News: Zero to BEER in 3.4 seconds

2011-04-01T11:01:00.004-05:00

While I'm not a huge supporter of the macro brew philosophy of quantity vs quality, I cannot argue with emergence of new technology in hopes of optimizing the stadium brew ordering process. Yes, I'd prefer to have a nice even pour of my favorite IPA into a tulip glass at the Chiefs/Royals/Sporting KC venues, but I don't really have that option due to current concession licensing, contracts, etc. I know, I know, I could just skip the $7.50 charge and wait until after the game to get a great micro brew, but there's something about watching the game with brew in hand that is so enticing, enjoyable and almost expected and is just so hard to pass up. So, stuck with the basic commercial choices at the local arena, I can at least hope to get my brew quickly and without any hiccups.

That's where the Bottoms Up Dispensing System from GrinOn Industries comes into play. It boasts at being the fastest beer dispensing system in the world, saving time and spilled beer in the process. They hold the unofficial world record of filling 56 beers in a minute. I can step up, order a stadium brew, and have product in hand in no time. Sure, it's not a quality focused beer, but I can't complain if I'm able to get one and get back to the game fast as you can say the name of the St. Louis macro brew you just ordered. Plus, the process is quite ingenious and fun to watch. I'm not gonna lie, I can't wait to see one of these in action, even if it's pouring me something that isn't my first choice.

Currently, the Bottoms Up Dispensing System is installed at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. It may be at other venues now, but I can only confirm Philly. Let me know if you see it pour in your neighborhood. Also, check out the article on Sports Grid, where I first learned of this product.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to friend us on facebook and signup for the blog email blast from feedburner.

Brew Review - Boulevard Imperial Stout

2011-03-16T01:30:00.002-05:00

Today, Boulevard finally released it's much anticipated Imperial Stout. Last released in January of 2009, I remember it taking a few weeks/months for the Imperial Stout to sell out city wide and you could at least find it in a few smaller venues for a while. This was the same for the BBQ and the more recent Rye on Rye. Unfortunately for this brew connoisseur, the local appetite for Boulevard's offerings across Kansas City seem to have vastly improved recently. Considering the Chocolate Ale realease a few weeks ago (sold out city wide in a matter of hours/days), I stopped into a few of my local spots on the way home from the office tonight to assess the situation. I found the Imperial Stout stock to have a pretty good dent in it already. I was hoping the Chocalate Ale fiasco was a statistical outlier, but it appears I was wrong. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about the recent serious local success of my hometown brewery, but I've never had to work so hard for some good brew. Boulevard's success is much deserved. Now that my partner in crime, Yum Beer!, has moved to Chicago, I have to work that much harder to nab his alotment as well. (You're welcome, bro). There is a 2 bottle limit per customer, so plan accordingly. Make sure you are getting your full allotment as this brew is perfect for aging in your cellar. Also, Royal Liquors (103rd) is offering a deal on the Smokestack glassware as well if you're buying the stout: $2.99 vs 4.99. Easy way to complete your collection at the same time.

Here's to some good brew drinking with friends, to Boulevard gaining phenomenal appeal to many, many more locals, and to the anticipation for more future brews to arrive.

Salud!

Serving Type: 750ml Bottle
Glassware: Smokestack Tulip
Color (hue and head): Dark and heavy brown. Thick/heavy, mocha head w/ staying power.
Aroma: Roasted malts, oak, dark chocolate, coffee grounds, oats.
Taste: Very roasty w/ bitter chocolate. Earthy w/ coffee. Finishes w/ a nice backbone of booze.
Grade: 99/100 (A+)
Musical pairing: Innerpartysystem - American Trash
Surroundings: Working late, wife out of town, watching bad TBS late night movies. Overboard.

Chocolate Ale Blitzkrieg(Brew Review)

2011-03-03T23:50:00.002-06:00

The Chocolate Ale Blitzkrieg was practically over in all of 3 days. It was here and it was gone before we knew what had happened. So, I'm showing up late to a party that's already over...but is it? I felt a little down that Boulevard's latest release had gone by the wayside in a matter of days, maybe a week, then I remembered the W.C. Fields quote: "Everybody should believe in something...I believe I'll have another beer." Why the heck did that pop in to my head, you ask? Well, it reminded me that we aren't interested in having just one taste or one beer. The true beer lover would have a few (if not many) tastes and enjoy every moment. The Boulevard connoisseur would not have purchased only one bottle to try; they would have given themselves the opportunity to try and try again. So I hypothesize there are many a brew lover out there (or at least in Kansas City) that have nestled away a tiny stash of Chocolate Ale to bring out to play another day. I didn't really miss the party at all, I just showed up at intermission...any of my friends will tell you, I'm late to everything.

I decided to wait to try the Chocolate Ale with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law while on a quick jaunt to Portland for some beer and Cake (band) over Valentines weekend. I know what you're thinking, 'Imbibilicious, what about your wife?!' Well, I did what any loving husband would do...I left her in KC. Don't worry, she was OK with me spending my V-day weekend with my other love, the sweet nectar known as beer.

The Boulevard/Christopher Elbow collaboration survived the trip from KC to PDX just fine. I was quite worried Portland security was going to confiscate the brew in baggage claim - not because it was a security risk, but because the people of Portland have a love for ale that's on another level. No offense to my fellow Kansas Citians, but we could all learn a lesson or two. Anyway, I digress. On to the tasting!!

We popped the cork and poured three generous servings into tasting snifters. I have to be honest, I was not expecting such a light ale color. I knew to expect something different, but I was stilled amazed...especially when the chocolate aroma hit my nose from three feet away. "Incredible!" I whisper to myself with eyes wide. On first sip, the chocolate was light and the ale was crisp and clean, but as the brew warmed in my hand, the chocolate seemed to creep out more deeply. In a way, it tasted as if someone at the brewery accidentally spilled Carnation Instant Breakfast in my beer before bottling. The flavor was unexpected, but very intriguing, and very believable. Much like adding the likes of Jack Black to Yo Gabba Gabba* made the show all the more appealing. I wanted more, but with three adults, the bottle was emptied too quickly. Luckily, I was able to nab a few for the cellar. You won't have to twist my arm to pop one open again soon.

*Yes, you read that right. I made a Yo Gabba Gabba reference in a beer blog. But it all the more explains the intriguing flavor I was getting from the Ale. Open YouTube. Look it up. Yo Gabba Gabba is a show for the 2 to 6 year old crowd, where current entertainment icons frequently make guest appearances, wear hilarious costumes, and sing some pretty fun songs...for younger folks. You should check it out some time (with your kid, niece or nephew, or a Boulevard Chocolate Ale, but never alone of course).

Serving Type: 750ml Bottle

Glassware: Tasting Snifter

Color (hue and head): Hazy, transparent, traffic light yellow (almost orange). Light and lacey head.

Aroma: Cacoa powder, soft, nutty.

Taste: Carnation, hint of fruit, nuts. Very light hop backbone. Inviting.

Grade: 93/100 (A-)

Musical pairing: Cake - Satan is my Motor

Surroundings: Portland, beer capital of the world, visiting family, watching yo gabba gabba with niece.

Stay Classy, Kansas City.

2011-02-15T22:27:00.000-06:00

Check out the letter below from Boulevard to all Kansas City beer lovers seeking the recent Chocolate Ale release. You have spoken and Boulevard has heard. This is a great thing...and shows a great partnership between the brewery and its faithful followers. If Boulevard is willing to keep pushing the envelope of brewing, we'll be there to enjoy the many creations. Thanks, Boulevard.

February 14, 2011

Dear Friends,

Holy cow, did we ever misjudge your feelings towards chocolate in beer. Before the Chocolate Ale storm hit, it was to us just another in a series of Smokestack seasonal and limited release offerings, a fun collaboration with local chocolatier Christopher Elbow. We packaged the same amount of Chocolate Ale as we had those previous Smokestack releases, roughly 19,200 bottles and 350 1/6 barrel (5.2 gallon) kegs.

You might say that the response to the beer took us by surprise, but that wouldn’t do it justice. No, we were blown away by the overwhelming reaction to Chocolate Ale, especially in Kansas City. We’re still not entirely sure how or why it happened. Maybe it was just a bunch of things coming together: a tasty and intriguing beer; a strong local connection; a gradual but steadily building buzz as we waited (and waited, and waited some more) for Federal label approval; the just-before-Valentine’s Day release, when we finally got the go-ahead from the government; and finally, the impact of social networks fueling demand in real time.

However or why-ever it happened, it was a tempest that left most everyone — from brewery staff, to distributors, to retailers, to you, our loyal customers — confused and frustrated. It’s probably not much consolation, but the brewery's 90+ employees encountered the same challenges trying to find Chocolate Ale, since we don’t hold back any limited release beers. Most were, like so many of our customers, unsuccessful. We will learn from this experience and, we hope, better anticipate demand of future releases.

To those of you who searched in vain and were unable to find a bottle or pour, please accept our sincere apologies.

Chocolate Ale was going to be just a one-time, one-off release. But due to the overwhelming feedback we've received, and after much internal discussion and debate, we’re pleased to announce

that it will be back for next Valentine’s Day.

We appreciate your understanding, and thank you for your continued support.

Your Friends at Boulevard Brewing Company