New Beer Sunday (Week 790)

beergoot · Apr 13, 2020

A aptly named beer for strange times...

Brouwerij De Molen -- Fire, Flood & Plague

3.99/5 rDev -3.6%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4

Opaque dark brown body topped with a relatively thin yet lasting light tan, dense and creamy head. Rich smell of milk chocolate and cocoa and just a hint of aromatic spiciness. Sweet chocolate and muted anise greets the palate. Heavy body; slick and oily; heavy residual sugar presence; quiet alcohol heat; sweet yet relatively dry on the palate.
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The three of us (me, Mrs. BG, and Rocket the Wonder Dog are together on the living room couch, wood fire burning, and mindless TV to lull us to oblivion (well, I've got some stupendous beer to nurse that'll take me to a similar state - I really don't watch TV except for Turner Classic Movies)...

FBarber · Apr 13, 2020

dukeandduke said: ↑

Thanks for your reply. Based on The Beer Temple's instagram update, they indicated the beer was three weeks old. Not sure if that meant the unopened boxes or not. I didn't have any issues with the freshness, thought it was a solid pour, though there are local fresher less expensive alternatives I prefer. Looking forward to the rest of the six pack.
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I saw that post from Beer temple, but assumed that was a fresher batch ... now I'm very confused because I have the same date on my bottles - and it only makes sense as a "best by" date not a "bottled on" date. Hmm ...

Still hanging on to your Keeping Together Architects of Harmony bottle? I'm heading back to Half Acre to grab a few more tomorrow or Tuesday.
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Ha, I intended to drink that last Saturday as my last bottle for the saison tasting - got sick with a bout of vertigo and never ended up drinking it. So yea, I still have it. If the opportunity affords, I may grab another one or two to send out in some boxes.

Harrison8 said: ↑

Is this only available in Chicago, or does it see any MO distribution being a Missouri brewery? I haven't seen it, but sounds intriguing.

@FBarber
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MacMalt said: ↑

A question for you Midwesterners: Wouldn't a 4 Hands beer be available in Missouri?
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ovaltine said: ↑

Well, 4 Hands is in St Louis, so I’d guess their beers would be available in St Louis and the surrounding area at the very least.

Is this a trick question?
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Harrison8 said: ↑

I ask because it had Binny's on the label (Chicago liquor store), which may indicate a Binny's store-only beer. I've been going to the liquor store less and less, but still don't recall seeing this beer. I probably should've just messaged FBarber.

@ovaltine
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LOL, @ovaltine, in this case it actually is a trick question. That beer was a one-off collaboration between 4Hands and Binnys (For those that don't know Binnys is a big 20+ store liquor store chain mostly in the greater Chicagoland area). So its actually only available at Binnys stores. @Harrison8 if you want one, just shoot me a message and I will pick it up and send it to you when I have a chance. Its still showing as in stock at my local Binnys.

Binnys has been doing some one-off collaboration beers with some different regional breweries (Toppling Goliath, Odd Side Ales, 4Hands and coming soon one with Revolution Brewing) using their store pick bourbon barrels and frankly so far the ones I've had have been great. I think I sent a couple of their Odd-Side collaborations to you @Harrison8?

scream · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

This is a difficult post to write. Shortly after my first post in this thread earlier today my wife and I received word that a dear friend of ours passed away last evening. She had been friends with him and had a working relationship with him for almost 20 years. He was one of the most warm and welcoming people that my wife introduced me to when we met 8 years ago. We quickly became friends. He was one of the most genuine, thoughtful, and selfless people I've ever known. He was always full of life and wanted to be introduced to new music and ideas. He was also a lover of beer, and he was the first person to ever give me a Heady Topper. We connected in so many ways. I'm still in shock honestly. He was taken suddenly by what is assumed to be a heart attack at the moment at 54 years old. From all accounts so far it was very sudden and quick. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and three children. My wife and I are just devastated by the news. We also just feel awful that the family has to endure this loss during an already scare and uncertain time. We were just texting the last few days. He was checking in on us every few days, and we with them. Our last texts were about how we couldn't wait to share a beer once everything settled down. I knew I had to have something in his honor tonight, and this bottle seemed appropriate. This is one is for you, brother.

Transmit In Color poured a dark black with a one finger head. The smell is where this beer really started to shine. Big aromas of chocolate, tequila, cinnamon, chocolate, and then bourbon stream out of the glass. I wasn't sure how tequila would work with the bourbon, but it's actually very delightful. All of the flavors were very well balanced in fact. The only place this beer lacked was in the feel department, and that's just me trying to find fault where there isn't much. I might have enjoyed a bit more thickness in this stout, but it wasn't such a flaw as to diminish my enjoyment. My second Bottle Logic barrel aged stout is another winner for sure. Thank you @2beerdogs for this. It's bringing me not only great enjoyment, but also gret comfort right now. Cheers.

4.54/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
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Sorry to all affected especially during these difficult times.

rgordon · Apr 13, 2020

Snowcrash000 said: ↑

Dunkler Weizenbock, a dark Weizenbock by German brewery Fritz Gutmann (6.9% ABV).

Pours a rather cloudy, deep mahogany coloration with a large, fluffy head. Smells of grainy, toasted malt, fruity/spicy yeast esters of banana and clove and just a hint of herbal hops.

Taste is an excellent balance of grainy, toasted, slightly caramelly malt, strong fruity/spicy yeast esters of banana and clove and somewhat lighter grassy/herbal hops. Finishes with a light/medium bitterness and some estery yeast and herbal hops lingering in the aftertaste. Smooth mouthfeel with a medium body and carbonation.

Quite an enjoyable dark Weizenbock that features an excellent balance of toasted malt, estery yeast and bitter hops, with all things being about equal here, meaning that this never becomes too sweet, while featuring a rather enjoyable bitterness and really bringing out those estery yeast notes expected of the style, rounded out by some toasted, almost roasty malt. Everything works together so well here, making for one of the most enjoyable examples of the style that I've had so far.
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That one there tickles my genetic drinking bones!

beergoot · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

This is a difficult post to write. Shortly after my first post in this thread earlier today my wife and I received word that a dear friend of ours passed away last evening. She had been friends with him and had a working relationship with him for almost 20 years. He was one of the most warm and welcoming people that my wife introduced me to when we met 8 years ago. We quickly became friends. He was one of the most genuine, thoughtful, and selfless people I've ever known. He was always full of life and wanted to be introduced to new music and ideas. He was also a lover of beer, and he was the first person to ever give me a Heady Topper. We connected in so many ways. I'm still in shock honestly. He was taken suddenly by what is assumed to be a heart attack at the moment at 54 years old. From all accounts so far it was very sudden and quick. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and three children. My wife and I are just devastated by the news. We also just feel awful that the family has to endure this loss during an already scare and uncertain time. We were just texting the last few days. He was checking in on us every few days, and we with them. Our last texts were about how we couldn't wait to share a beer once everything settled down. I knew I had to have something in his honor tonight, and this bottle seemed appropriate. This is one is for you, brother.

Transmit In Color poured a dark black with a one finger head. The smell is where this beer really started to shine. Big aromas of chocolate, tequila, cinnamon, chocolate, and then bourbon stream out of the glass. I wasn't sure how tequila would work with the bourbon, but it's actually very delightful. All of the flavors were very well balanced in fact. The only place this beer lacked was in the feel department, and that's just me trying to find fault where there isn't much. I might have enjoyed a bit more thickness in this stout, but it wasn't such a flaw as to diminish my enjoyment. My second Bottle Logic barrel aged stout is another winner for sure. Thank you @2beerdogs for this. It's bringing me not only great enjoyment, but also gret comfort right now. Cheers.

4.54/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
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It's always a stunner to hear about a sudden loss. Hopefully you can spiritually share a beer with him in his honor. Stay strong...

FBarber · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

This is a difficult post to write. Shortly after my first post in this thread earlier today my wife and I received word that a dear friend of ours passed away last evening. She had been friends with him and had a working relationship with him for almost 20 years. He was one of the most warm and welcoming people that my wife introduced me to when we met 8 years ago. We quickly became friends. He was one of the most genuine, thoughtful, and selfless people I've ever known. He was always full of life and wanted to be introduced to new music and ideas. He was also a lover of beer, and he was the first person to ever give me a Heady Topper. We connected in so many ways. I'm still in shock honestly. He was taken suddenly by what is assumed to be a heart attack at the moment at 54 years old. From all accounts so far it was very sudden and quick. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and three children. My wife and I are just devastated by the news. We also just feel awful that the family has to endure this loss during an already scare and uncertain time. We were just texting the last few days. He was checking in on us every few days, and we with them. Our last texts were about how we couldn't wait to share a beer once everything settled down. I knew I had to have something in his honor tonight, and this bottle seemed appropriate. This is one is for you, brother.

Transmit In Color poured a dark black with a one finger head. The smell is where this beer really started to shine. Big aromas of chocolate, tequila, cinnamon, chocolate, and then bourbon stream out of the glass. I wasn't sure how tequila would work with the bourbon, but it's actually very delightful. All of the flavors were very well balanced in fact. The only place this beer lacked was in the feel department, and that's just me trying to find fault where there isn't much. I might have enjoyed a bit more thickness in this stout, but it wasn't such a flaw as to diminish my enjoyment. My second Bottle Logic barrel aged stout is another winner for sure. Thank you @2beerdogs for this. It's bringing me not only great enjoyment, but also gret comfort right now. Cheers.

4.54/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
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So sorry to hear about your loss. My condolences to both you and your wife.

JackHorzempa · Apr 13, 2020

Jacobier10 said: ↑

This is my first time trying a beer brewed with Loral hops and I don't think I'm a fan.
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In my opinion Loral is a hop best used in judicious (i.e., small) quantities.

A beer that features Loral hops that I enjoy drinking is Yards Loyal Lager. I discussed this beer in a past NBS thread:

https://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/new-beer-sunday-week-781.633629/#post-6794841

I would make the recommendation to give Yards Loyal Lager a try before 'writing off' Loral hops.

Cheers!

ovaltine · Apr 13, 2020

FBarber said: ↑

I saw that post from Beer temple, but assumed that was a fresher batch ... now I'm very confused because I have the same date on my bottles - and it only makes sense as a "best by" date not a "bottled on" date. Hmm ...
Ha, I intended to drink that last Saturday as my last bottle for the saison tasting - got sick with a bout of vertigo and never ended up drinking it. So yea, I still have it. If the opportunity affords, I may grab another one or two to send out in some boxes.

LOL, @ovaltine, in this case it actually is a trick question. That beer was a one-off collaboration between 4Hands and Binnys (For those that don't know Binnys is a big 20+ store liquor store chain mostly in the greater Chicagoland area). So its actually only available at Binnys stores. @Harrison8 if you want one, just shoot me a message and I will pick it up and send it to you when I have a chance. Its still showing as in stock at my local Binnys.

Binnys has been doing some one-off collaboration beers with some different regional breweries (Toppling Goliath, Odd Side Ales, 4Hands and coming soon one with Revolution Brewing) using their store pick bourbon barrels and frankly so far the ones I've had have been great. I think I sent a couple of their Odd-Side collaborations to you @Harrison8?
Click to expand...

I KNEW it was a trick question!

When we lived in Minnesota (about 6-1/2 hours from Chicago), I used to visit Binny's 2 or 3 times a year to get Chicago stuff that didn't have distro in Minnesota (Pipeworks, Revolution, Three Floyd's, etc). Now that I live about 90 minutes or so from Chicago, I can't tell you the last time I was in a Binny's. Has to be 3+ years.

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO out of the Binny's loop.

FBarber · Apr 13, 2020

ovaltine said: ↑

I KNEW it was a trick question!

When we lived in Minnesota (about 6-1/2 hours from Chicago), I used to visit Binny's 2 or 3 times a year to get Chicago stuff that didn't have distro in Minnesota (Pipeworks, Revolution, Three Floyd's, etc). Now that I live about 90 minutes or so from Chicago, I can't tell you the last time I was in a Binny's. Has to be 3+ years.

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO out of the Binny's loop.
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I remember they tried to open a few stores in northern IN, but there are some weird laws in IN that make it difficult for out of state liquor stores to open in IN, so they eventually abandoned the plans.

Edit: I found the article but of course its behind the Chicago Tribune paywall: https://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-binnys-indiana-expansion-0417-biz-20160415-story.html

MNAle · Apr 13, 2020

@Pinz412, my deepest sympathies to you, his family, and all who knew him.

russpowell · Apr 13, 2020

MacMalt said: ↑

A question for you Midwesterners: Wouldn't a 4 Hands beer be available in Missouri?
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It would weird if not. I certainly purchased plenty up there

russpowell · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

This is a difficult post to write. Shortly after my first post in this thread earlier today my wife and I received word that a dear friend of ours passed away last evening. She had been friends with him and had a working relationship with him for almost 20 years. He was one of the most warm and welcoming people that my wife introduced me to when we met 8 years ago. We quickly became friends. He was one of the most genuine, thoughtful, and selfless people I've ever known. He was always full of life and wanted to be introduced to new music and ideas. He was also a lover of beer, and he was the first person to ever give me a Heady Topper. We connected in so many ways. I'm still in shock honestly. He was taken suddenly by what is assumed to be a heart attack at the moment at 54 years old. From all accounts so far it was very sudden and quick. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and three children. My wife and I are just devastated by the news. We also just feel awful that the family has to endure this loss during an already scare and uncertain time. We were just texting the last few days. He was checking in on us every few days, and we with them. Our last texts were about how we couldn't wait to share a beer once everything settled down. I knew I had to have something in his honor tonight, and this bottle seemed appropriate. This is one is for you, brother.

Transmit In Color poured a dark black with a one finger head. The smell is where this beer really started to shine. Big aromas of chocolate, tequila, cinnamon, chocolate, and then bourbon stream out of the glass. I wasn't sure how tequila would work with the bourbon, but it's actually very delightful. All of the flavors were very well balanced in fact. The only place this beer lacked was in the feel department, and that's just me trying to find fault where there isn't much. I might have enjoyed a bit more thickness in this stout, but it wasn't such a flaw as to diminish my enjoyment. My second Bottle Logic barrel aged stout is another winner for sure. Thank you @2beerdogs for this. It's bringing me not only great enjoyment, but also gret comfort right now. Cheers.

4.54/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
Click to expand...

My condolences

beergoot · Apr 13, 2020

After a few high potency real beers, I thought I'd give this non-alcholic beer a try. It was gifted to me (by accident) by my neighbor Tactical Bob...

Binding-Brauerei AG -- Clausthaler Original (Non-Alcoholic/Alkoholfrei)

2.07/5 rDev -28.1%
look: 3.5 | smell: 3.25 | taste: 1 | feel: 2.75 | overall: 2

Bright and clear golden body; coarse and lively carbonation; soapy, foamy white head, thin yet lasting. Kind of a generic, mass-produced adjunct lager aroma; a bit of hay. Big corn syrup sweetness flavor. Medium body; coarse and bubbly.

The taste ultimately sets the tone with this one. It's pretty much pure corn sugar sweetness. The appearance and smell give hope that this may be fair for what it is, but the reality is the taste and mouthfeel nearly scream carbonated corn syrup.
-----------
Nope, couldn't finish this. It went down the drain. If I want non-alcoholic sugar water, I'll stick with one of my favorite beverages: Vernor's Ginger Ale...

FBarber · Apr 13, 2020

Alrighty, I've got something for my second beer today - its a mystery beer from @MacMalt thanks to our recent NBS BIF.

Pours a hazy cloudy orange color - but not in the way a NE style IPA would look - with that dull matte opacity - this is brighter, just completely opaque. Almost reminds me of a white stout? Thin fizzy white head dissipates pretty quickly leaving not much in the way of foam on the top of the beer other than a thin ring along the outside edges.

Aroma is interesting - smells kind of like a paleta. Its got some notes of cantaloupe, mango, peach, and pineapple but with a creamy sweetness to it - making it reminiscent of a paleta.

Taste is ... huh ... not what I expected going in blind. It does have those fruity notes - hints of pineapple, peach, mango, and cantaloup, but not fresh, more in a dulled almost cooked way. Like a cobbler? Some hoppy bitterness comes through but its not overwhelming. There is some definite creaminess to this with moderate sweetness to is. Again I am getting some of that paleta-type flavor here. Hints of vanilla do come through. The malts themselves provide a light background but the beer itself is pretty substantial. I am guessing this is a higher ABV and the effect, after aggressively drinking most of it, seems to confirm that.

Feel is medium to fuller bodied. Moderate, but prickly carbonation. The finish is rather short and abrupt without any lingering notes other than a slight warming alcohol sensation - yea, its gotta be higher ABV. At least 10%, but its not "hot" by any stretch.

Overall this is interesting, Im having some trouble placing what this is, but given what Ive noted, I am guessing an American barleywine hopped with some more modern (read fruity) hops? The only other thing that comes to mind is a Triple IPA, but it doesn't seem hoppy or sweet enough for that.

Not a clue on what brewery this is from ...

... and, time for the reveal ...

Industrial Arts Brewing Co's Wheatwine.

A wheatwine! oh duh, completely forgot about that one ... yea, that explains the lighter malts - it was the wheat. Wow, very nicely done.

MacMalt · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

This is a difficult post to write. Shortly after my first post in this thread earlier today my wife and I received word that a dear friend of ours passed away last evening. She had been friends with him and had a working relationship with him for almost 20 years. He was one of the most warm and welcoming people that my wife introduced me to when we met 8 years ago. We quickly became friends. He was one of the most genuine, thoughtful, and selfless people I've ever known. He was always full of life and wanted to be introduced to new music and ideas. He was also a lover of beer, and he was the first person to ever give me a Heady Topper. We connected in so many ways. I'm still in shock honestly. He was taken suddenly by what is assumed to be a heart attack at the moment at 54 years old. From all accounts so far it was very sudden and quick. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and three children. My wife and I are just devastated by the news. We also just feel awful that the family has to endure this loss during an already scare and uncertain time. We were just texting the last few days. He was checking in on us every few days, and we with them. Our last texts were about how we couldn't wait to share a beer once everything settled down. I knew I had to have something in his honor tonight, and this bottle seemed appropriate. This is one is for you, brother.

Transmit In Color poured a dark black with a one finger head. The smell is where this beer really started to shine. Big aromas of chocolate, tequila, cinnamon, chocolate, and then bourbon stream out of the glass. I wasn't sure how tequila would work with the bourbon, but it's actually very delightful. All of the flavors were very well balanced in fact. The only place this beer lacked was in the feel department, and that's just me trying to find fault where there isn't much. I might have enjoyed a bit more thickness in this stout, but it wasn't such a flaw as to diminish my enjoyment. My second Bottle Logic barrel aged stout is another winner for sure. Thank you @2beerdogs for this. It's bringing me not only great enjoyment, but also gret comfort right now. Cheers.

4.54/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
Click to expand...

I'm very sorry for your loss!

Jacobier10 · Apr 13, 2020

JackHorzempa said: ↑

In my opinion Loral is a hop best used in judicious (i.e., small) quantities.

A beer that features Loral hops that I enjoy drinking is Yards Loyal Lager.
Click to expand...

Good to know! I won't write off Loral hops after only one beer. I'm a big Yards fan so I will definitely give Loyal Lager a shot when I see it.

Pinz412 · Apr 13, 2020

Thanks for all the kind words, all. After putting down a 14.7% stout swimming in liquor I felt like I needed something else to cap off the night. Then I remembered the pilsner that @FBarber sent me in a ninja box that had a rather responsible abv. It was pretty much the perfect choice at that moment. Maplewood's Cashmere Pulaski is not the kind of beer that I usually keep in the house. My favorite local breweries excel at so many other styles that, while I enjoy a well made pilsner when I drink one, they're usually an afterthought for me. This pilsner in particular stands out for me. It has everything you'd look for in a pilsner, but then topped off with a dry hopping of Cashmere hops. Crisp, malty, refreshing, with a floral hoppy quality. This is my first taste of anything from Maplewood. While reminiscing and checking this one in I decided to look up what my late friend's last check in was. Strangely enough if was also a beer from Maplewood, Juice Pants, that he bought from Tavour. One of those strange coincidences, I suppose.

3.93/5 rDev +1.6%
look: 4.25 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4

FBarber · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

While reminiscing and checking this one in I decided to look up what my late friend's last check in was. Strangely enough if was also a beer from Maplewood, Juice Pants, that he bought from Tavour. One of those strange coincidences, I suppose.
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Damn, thats crazy!

2beerdogs · Apr 13, 2020

Hello Late Night NBS.
More working from home, venturing forth as needed, and trying to keep track of family and friends. One who is coming out of the hospital from this nasty COVID-19, and one who tested negative. Thankful for both. God Bless those troopers in our health care system who are trying their damndest to soldier on and give the care to all who need it. And most of them doing so while trying to care for their own loved ones, and sometimes even sacrificing time with family to continue their work and avoid exposing them to the virus. My admiration is deep for you folks.

But I am going share a beer here.
Thanks to our very own @larryi86 for this absolutely luscious, zesty treat...

Lemon Meringue Milkshake IPA by Tired Hands

Received in NBS BIF #11. Stamped "YO BRO 03/03/2020"
Pours a somewhat cloudy orange to gold. A few floaties languish lazily. Seems to match the psychedelic label art. White frothy head struts northward, but retreats a few minutes in.
Aroma is so true to what is advertised on the label. Immediately upon popping the tab, a lush conquering citrus marauder is free. So assertive, I questioned if I actually smelled t it prior to opening. But more than just the lemon zest, a creamy sweet note advances the lemon on its shoulders. Ranks of vanilla as support troops bring up the rear. Reminds of the first time I had Limone di Sorrento, the Italian lemon liquore. The nose, LAWDY!
The troops faithfully execute. The initial assault is firm, zesty lemon. But immediately into the foray leaps a crackery malt note akin to graham cracker crust and the creamy lactose note that flanks my cheeks, and covers my tongue. This actually tapers the lemon zest mojo a bit.
Carbonation marches along at a good pace. Medium feel.
Overall, for a funky sub style, the milkshake IPA, this one is a hit for me.
4.26/5 rDev +2.2%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25

2beerdogs · Apr 13, 2020

Pinz412 said: ↑

Going off of the sentiment of @JackHorzempa above, I'm going to also focus on supporting the locals for my first post today. It's really encouraging to see that a number of them are selling out of their product quickly even in these difficult times. After weeks of only going out to the stores when necessary my wife and I decided we needed to do something nice for ourselves while still being responsible. Luckily one of our very local breweries have done a fantastic job of adapting to the situation and serving their customers. They're offering same day delivery in a large chunk of the city, and are also delivering further outside of the city with a day's notice. Aside from offering some of my favorite beers in Pittsburgh, their kitchen is also very high quality. They're still offering a lot of their regular menu for curbside pickup and delivery, but they've expanded into also selling family style meals and loaves of bread that they bake themselves. Since we only live a few minutes from their location we opted to do the curbside pickup and it couldn't have been easier. All of the food and beer was perfectly packed and ready to go. I can't sing their praises enough.

With any Easter plans that may have been being scrapped, my wife and I decided to do it up yesterday and brought home a small haul of food and drinks. We've been eating well by cooking at home exclusively for weeks, but it was really nice to enjoy some restaurant quality food again. We brought home a kale salad, a harissa roasted vegetable flatbread, pork belly fried rice, and a fried chicken sandwich topped with pate, kim chi, and Korean curry. Of course beverages were needed as well, so we brought home 4-packs of an IPA, a grisette, and a couple Brett saison bottles.

Up first was Desert Solitaire. From the bottle, "Desert Solitaire was brewed with a pilsner and oat malt and fermented with Brettanomyces clausenii and a blend of American and European saison strains before an extended bottle conditioning. The resulting beer is exceptionally dry, funky, and effervescent." I found this description to be spot on. It poured a beautiful transparent golden straw with ample head. The carbonation was very apparent at first look. There was a touch of lemony brightness on the taste, but it was quickly taken over by barnyard funk and grain. The finish was intensely dry, but kept me wanting to drink more. I wish I'd had this bottle to share during last week's saison tasting, but better late than never.

Later in the night I poured myself a can of Test Piece: Strata, and IPA hopped exclusively with Strata. I've been a big fan of their Test Piece series, but this is my first time trying the Strata. It did not disappoint. It poured one of my favorite hues of thick yellow haze with a creamy one finger head. The aromas to me were of ripe nectarine and peach and the initial flavors contained those same stonefruits. The dank crept in after that, but was well balanced. My only complaint was that I wished the flavors were a bit more intense and pungent. The soft body made it easy to drink. There was also a floral quality that was subtle, but a was a nice thread that ran through the glass.

Oh, and the food was excellent, too, but I don't have any pictures to share of it. Hope everyone has a continued great weekend. Later today I'll most likely stray from the locals to review something I got in the NBS BIF.
Click to expand...

I agree with you and @JackHorzempa . I have been popping by Bootleggers a few times a week. (Remember your Knuckle Sandwich). Well starting a few weeks back, they put up some shelling, and started selling all kinds of essentials: Flour, sugar, TP, oil, coffee, bleach, handsanitizer whenever they got some, pasta, beans, etc... And all very well priced, and often broken into smaller amounts to share the wealth. And some of their employees are actually taking it upon themselves to deliver some of these things to some of their older regulars. Really good people, Aaron @BeerBaronAaron & Tricia, who have shown once again they truly are part of the community.

New Beer Sunday (Week 790)

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

scream Initiate (0) Dec 6, 2014 Wisconsin
In Memoriam

rgordon Pooh-Bah (2,701) Apr 26, 2012 North Carolina
Pooh-Bah

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

JackHorzempa Grand Pooh-Bah (3,375) Dec 15, 2005 Pennsylvania
Society Pooh-Bah

ovaltine Grand High Pooh-Bah (6,787) Apr 6, 2010 Indiana
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

MNAle Initiate (0) Sep 6, 2011 Minnesota

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

MacMalt Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,322) Jan 28, 2015 New Jersey
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

Jacobier10 Grand Pooh-Bah (3,102) Feb 23, 2004 New Jersey
Pooh-Bah

Pinz412 Initiate (0) Nov 20, 2019 Pennsylvania
Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

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New Beer Sunday (Week 790)

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

scream Initiate (0) Dec 6, 2014 Wisconsin In Memoriam

rgordon Pooh-Bah (2,701) Apr 26, 2012 North Carolina Pooh-Bah

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

JackHorzempa Grand Pooh-Bah (3,375) Dec 15, 2005 Pennsylvania Society Pooh-Bah

ovaltine Grand High Pooh-Bah (6,787) Apr 6, 2010 Indiana BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

MNAle Initiate (0) Sep 6, 2011 Minnesota

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

MacMalt Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,322) Jan 28, 2015 New Jersey BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

Jacobier10 Grand Pooh-Bah (3,102) Feb 23, 2004 New Jersey Pooh-Bah

Pinz412 Initiate (0) Nov 20, 2019 Pennsylvania Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

scream Initiate (0) Dec 6, 2014 Wisconsin
In Memoriam

rgordon Pooh-Bah (2,701) Apr 26, 2012 North Carolina
Pooh-Bah

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

JackHorzempa Grand Pooh-Bah (3,375) Dec 15, 2005 Pennsylvania
Society Pooh-Bah

ovaltine Grand High Pooh-Bah (6,787) Apr 6, 2010 Indiana
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

russpowell Grand High Pooh-Bah (8,292) May 24, 2005 Arkansas
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

beergoot Grand High Pooh-Bah (9,310) Oct 11, 2010 Colorado
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

MacMalt Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,322) Jan 28, 2015 New Jersey
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

Jacobier10 Grand Pooh-Bah (3,102) Feb 23, 2004 New Jersey
Pooh-Bah

Pinz412 Initiate (0) Nov 20, 2019 Pennsylvania
Trader

FBarber Grand High Pooh-Bah (7,325) Mar 5, 2016 Illinois
Mod Team BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader

2beerdogs Grand Pooh-Bah (5,682) Jan 31, 2005 California
BA4LYFE Society Pooh-Bah Trader