Events for Week of March 14, 2011

Upright Brewing Co. Picture courtesy of allecia.blogspot.com

And…here it is…your week in beer.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

$10.00 Tuesday Tasting – IPAs- New York, New York

7:30PM-9:30PM @ Jimmy’s No.43

Come try 6 different craft IPAs. Learn about the what makes these beers bitter and variations between them. $10 gets you a small taste of each beer and into the information session.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Irish (Inspired) Ale Class: Chicago, Illinois

7:00PM-9:00PM @ Whole Foods Market – Lincoln Park

Come one, come all and join our resident Beer Geek Sean Reilly as we explore the wonderful world of Irish and Irish Inspired Ales. It’s the eve of St. Pat’s and what a great way to usher in the evening. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through Customer Service or  http://www.active.com

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Happy Firkin St. Pattys Day: West Chester, Pennsylvania

4:00PM-10:00PM @ Rams Head Bar And Grill

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! In celebration, stop by Rams for some Victory brews. They will be tapping a firkin of Victory’s newest beer Headwaters Pale Ale at 4 pm and there will be live music from local musician Pete Groch.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Firkin Friday Featuring Brewdog: Atlanta, Georgia

6:00PM-2:00AM @ The Porter Beer Bar

Brewdog is known for making beers that push boundaries. Tonight, try their Paradox Islay, an imperial stout.

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Fairfax Brewfest: Fairfax, California

7:00PM-9:00PM @ Faifax Pavillion

Beer Festival which will have 16 Breweries as well as a Cider maker. Unlimited drinks for $25 if you pre-order and $30 if you show up. Breweries include: Iron Springs (hosting), Marin Brew Co, Moylans, Lagunitas, Anderson Valley, and Speakeasy, and many other that you cannot find anywhere else, but Marin. LAsts from 1 PM until 5 PM.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Upright’s Two Year Anniversary: Portland, Oregon

1:00PM-6:00PM @ Upright Brewing Co.

bb.com is going to this- Upright rocks and today they are relasing a sour cherry barrel aged version of the Four. A cask of the upcoming Gose with extra salt and dry hops will be poured. Get there early to get your hands on a bottle of their first anniversary apricot ale aged in gin barrels. Only three cases are available.

Monday, March 21, 2011

Oskar Blues Spring Beer Dinner: Stamford, Conneticut

7:00PM- 9:00PM @ Coalhouse Pizza

The menu will include …. sweet potato & beet chips with homemade tzatsiki sauce, an organic mixed green and fresh fennel salad, homemade split pea soup, a goat cheese & asparagus pizza, lamb tenderloin with a miso-chili sauce served with spring vegetables, and our homemade stout ice cream. Each dish is paired with an Oskar Blues brew – Mama’s Little Yella Pils, G’Knight IPA, Dale’s, Old Chub and of course, TenFidy. Two members from the band “Keltic Kick” will be joining us for the evening. Tickets on sale now ~ $60 per guest. Visit our website for more information – http://www.coalhousepizza.com or give us a call directly: 203-977-7700.

If you go to an event, want us to post an event or want to share something about beer- leave a comment or email me at jess@beerblotter.com.

Events for Week of December 13, 2010

 

Head to Santa Monica's Library Alehouse for some amazing brews this week!

Due to my inability to post events on Sunday, I have decided to post on Mondays and give you events from Tuesday through Monday. Hope that is okay. If not, let me know!

 

This weekend, I indulged in a Black Raven Trickster, Cantillon’s Framboise, New Belgium‘ s La Folie, New Belgium’s Bourbon Barrel Aged Sah’ti, Deschutes Hop Henge and 21st Amendment’s Brew Free or Die IPA. A pretty good weekend in beer, if I say so myself.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Holiday Beer Dinner: Downingtown, Pennsylvania

6:00PM-9:00PM @ Victory Brewing Co.

Nothing like the holidays to have an excuse to splurge! Check out this menu- its simply irresistible, $50.00 per person and paired with Victory Brewing Co. beers.

Duo of Soups
Red pepper bisque and puree of spinach
Served with Prima Pils

Prosciutto wrapped beer blanched asparagus with gruyere mornay sauce
Served with Rauch Porter

Cranberry and chestnut filled turkey breast cutlets with Pursuit giblet gravy and roasted seasonal squash
Served with Pursuit Pale Ale

Cracked barley encrusted oysters with Anaheim chili risotto and saffron aioli
Served with ESB

Cinnamon nutmeg spice cake with Dark Intrigue frosting
Served with Dark Intrigue

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Bourbon County Bottle Signing: Homer Glen, Illinois

6:00PM-9:00PM @ Kenwood Liquors

Bourbon County is one of the best stouts EVER and in my opinion the best beer made by Goose Island. Tonight, stop by one of the two Kenwood Liquor locations and pick up a bottle specially signed by Goose Island Founder John Hall.

Time: 6pm-7pm

Kenwood Liquors
12037 W. 159th Street
Homer Glen, IL 60491
(708) 590-8210

Time: 8pm-9pm

Kenwood Liquors
10750 South Cicero Avenue
Oak Lawn, IL 60453-5402
(708) 424-3580

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Dogfish Head Bash: Montpelier, Vermont

7:00PM-2:00AM @ Three Penny Taproom

This epic tap list includes Dogfish Head‘s best beers:

– Chateau Jiahu
– Theobroma
– Pangaea
– Bitch’s Brew
– My Antonia
– Red & White
– Black & Blue
– Olde School
– 90 Minute
– 60 Minute
– Indian Brown

Friday, December 17, 2010

Week of Wild Friday Tastival: Eugene, Oregon

5:00PM-10:00PM @ Sixteen Tons Beer & Wine

Hot Damn- Featured breweries will include Block 15, Upright, Hair of the Dog, De Dolle, Cantillon, Rodenbach, Russian River, The Bruery, Orval, Cascade, Deschutes, Victory, Lindemans, Oud Beersel, 3 Fonteinen, De Ranke, Haandbryggeriet, New Belgium, Avery, Mikkeller, Ommegang, and more.

Tasting tickets are $1. Beers are 1-4 tickets for 3oz tasters. No entry fee. GO TO THIS!!!

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Maui Brewing Launch Party: Denver, Colorado

1:00PM-5:00PM @ Freshcraft

Finally, Maui Brewing has reached Colorado. A state full of beer lovers, it’s about time! The long-awaited time when CoCoNuT Porter, Big Swell IPA & Bikini Blonde Lager hit Colorado are now over.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Twelve Days of Barleywine: Anchorage, Alaska

11:00AM-11:00PM @ Glacier Brewhouse

Stop by Glacier Brewhouse for some barleywines. It’s impressive that a brewery makes an array of this specific style. Today is the 10th day, so time is of the essence.

THE 10th DAY OF BARLEYWINE – DEC. 19, 2010
1. 2011 Big Woody Barleywine aged in Ukrainian Oak barrel for 10 months. (9.00% abv)
2. 2010 Eisbock aged 8 months in Makers Mark barrels. (9.00%abv)
3. Cask conditioned selection. 2008 Russian Imperial Stout aged 2.67 years in virgin Czech oak barrels. (9.00% abv)
Pay as you go

Monday, December 20, 2010

Library Alehouse Holiday Beer Fest Kickoff: Santa Monica, California

6:00PM-11:00PM @ Library Ale House

$10.00, just $10.00 gets you:

Library Logo Tasting Glass and Your First Beer
…$2.50 – $5 Refills on ALL Holiday Ale Fest Beers throughout the Fest
10% off food during the festival

Tonight is the kick-off event and this will continue for two weeks. But tonight’s tap list includes:

– Nøgne Ø / Jolly Pumpkin / Stone Special Holiday Ale
– Jolly Pumpkin Noel de Calabaza
– N’ice Chouffe
– Dogfish Head Pangea
– Dogfish Head Chicory Stout
– Sierra Nevada Celebration
– Anchor Brewing’s Merry Christmas Happy New Year Ale
– Anderson Valley’s Winter Solstice
– Delirium Noel
– Gouden Carolus Noel

What is your favorite beer holiday event? Leave a comment or email me at jess@beerblotter.com!

Archives of a Beer Nerd – Sixth Installment

Just keep cruisin'

Yup, we plod on. The journey continues, down the beautiful path of beerdom, through the expansive pages of Timperial’s beer journal.

Introduction: Just in case you are new to the blotter, here is the link to follow if you need an explanation of what in the hell this column is all about. In a nutshell, the archive is a time machine that takes us back a few years to the initial days of my beer journaling. I’ve drank a lot of good beers through the years, and I’d like to share my thoughts on how they tasted. Hopefully I’ll whet your appetite and you will give these beers a try for yourself. If I’m lucky enough to make that happen for you, please tell us about your experience and how it tasted in your words.

The last installment left us near the end of January, 2008.  I had just tried my first ever Abyss.  Let’s see what new and exciting things I tasted next.

Photo credit: Hallam

Do you still exist?

1/23/08

North Coast Brewing (Fort Bragg, CA) – Cru d’Or

8%.  Belgian style through and through.  There is not much head present (bottle cap fitted).  When cold, it is very bland, but as it warms…flavors burst forth!  It has a light brown color and great clarity.  The odor is of yeast, plums, an almost medicinal alcohol, but very pleasant.  Nice sweetness…the maltiness comes through, drying the palate.  I find this to be a nice Belgian, though it could use more carbonation.

Timperial Commentary: Does this beer still exist?  I completely forgot about it until I read this in my journal.  I do remember really liking this beer and getting it again in 2009.  It’s a seasonal, I remember that, but what season?  You got me.  I also remember someone telling me that this beer did very well cellared for a few years.  I clearly don’t have any down there.

I was able to find the beer on NCB’s website, but only by searching specifically for the beer by name.  If you scroll through all of their beers listed on the main “beers” page, it is not listed.  Maybe it has been retired.  That would be sad.

Photo credit: shyzaboy

1/26/08

Victory Brewing Co. (Downingtown, PA) – Golden Monkey

9.5%.  This beer pours with a clear, golden color and a minimal head.  It’s a tripel Belgian style ale brewed with spices, and that is exactly what it tastes like.  It smells like a white ale with nutmeg added.  It has a strong alcohol effervencence…very sweet and spicy, though a bit drying a few moments after the sip.  The flavors really linger.  This beer provides major memories of home.  What a great winter beer…warming and tasting of Christmas.

Timperial Commentary: Oh man…Golden Monkey really does remind me of home in PA.  It especially reminds me of For Whom The Beer Toales (our Chicago correspondent), who absolutely loves getting the “monkey on her back”.  I am reminded of having beers at Johnny Brenda’s in Fishtown, which was just a few blocks from where I lived once upon a time.  That’s a must visit in Philly if you ask me.  Great beer, food and live music.

I totally neglect this beer!  I think I’m going to have to race out to the bottle shop right now and get some, crack it open, inhale, and enjoy the roller coaster of emotion.

Check out beeraday.net for some amazing beer photos.

2/1/08

Kiuchi Brewery/Hitachino Nest (Ibaraki, Japan) – XH

7% Strong ale matured in oak casks used for Shocyu (distilled sake).  It pours a very cloudy, effervescent amber, brownish color.  There is a lot of sediment on the bottom of the glass.  The head is thin and wispy, with slight retention.  The nose is full of sour yeast, probably a result of the oak.  There is an odd, soapy aroma present as well.  Earth and sour in the flavor.  Maybe it’s power of suggestion, but I get a cherry cough drop after taste.  Kiuchi’s ingenuity and uniqueness continues to amaze me.

Timperial Commentary: Kiuchi is one of those breweries that can do no wrong in my mind.  The only beer that I have ever tried by them that I wasn’t highly impressed with was the Nipponia, but I can surely respect it for its historical nod.  Sorachi Ace hops are the big fad right now, and Nipponia surely plays a role in that.  In reading my review, XH sort of comes off as being spoiled or infected or just plain gross.  I mean, a sour, earthy, soapy, cough medicine beer…that sounds terrible.  Oddly though, I’ve had this beer several times since my initial review and I really like it.  It’s powerfully unique.  I’d love to see more breweries attempting to use sake barrels to age beer.

P.S. XH stands for Extra High.  Impress your friends.

Beer Events for Week of November 1, 2010

Armsby Abbey will showcase an amazing Lost Abbey tap list this week

So sorry for the delay. I am finally recovered from Halloween weekend as a shark attack victim. As far as beers go, it was pretty low key: Georgetown Manny’s Pale Ale, New Belgium Ranger IPA and some homebrew. But now for your week in beer.

Skipping Monday, old news.

 

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

 

Victory Brewing Co Takes Over the Taps: New York, New York

4:30PM-2:30AM @ Rattle- N- Hum

A must stop beer bar in NYC, Rattle – N- Hum’s 35 taps will be all Victory Brewing beers. We are talking the best of the best from Wild Devil to Storm King- its going to be one hell of a Tuesday night!

 

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

 

Lost Abbey/Port Brewing Tap Take Over: Worchester, Massachusettes

6:00PM-10:00PM @ Armsby Abbey

Another “Tap Takeover” and I’m loving the idea. Tonight in MA, Lost Abbey/Port Brewing are bringing out all of the stops, 22 of them which include, Mondo Double IPA (one of my favorite IPAs), Red Barn Farmhouse ale, 2008 Older Viscosity and Bourbon Santa’s Little Helper. A-m-a-z-i-n-g.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Jolly Pumpkin Multi-tap Night: Grand Rapids, Michigan

6:00PM-2:00AM @ HopCat

Event deets:

 

Join us as we celebrate Jolly Pumpkin from Dexter, MI in a rare multi-tap night. We will be featuring almost a dozen(hopefully) taps of one of our favorite breweries. We will be honored by special guest Mike Turriff, who will be on hand to fend any questions, comments, and notes of praise. Maybe even the Captain Ron “Spooky” Jeffries will be in attendance!-no promises. Party starts at 6pm and will end when the beer does…or at 2:30am Which ever comes first. Hope to see you there.
-Cheers

 

Still at the top of our must visit list - HopCat

 

Friday, November 5, 2010

 

San Diego Beer Week Kick Off: San Diego, California

Starting at 6:00PM @ all over San Diego

Beer Blotter is going to San Diego next week to hit up some amazing events. If you are in the area, check out the website and pick the events that intrigue you the most! San Diego Beer Week is sponsored by the San Diego Brewers Guild, a non-profit whose mission is to promote awareness and increase the visibility of fresh, locally brewed beer through education and participation in community events.

 

Saturday, November 6, 2010

 

Firestone Walker‘s 14th Anniversary Party Release: Paso Robles, California

12:00PM-3:00PM @ Firestone Walker Brewing Co.

Firestone Walker is celebrating it’s 14th anniversary by having a beer release party for is anniversary beer “14” and will include free samples of all component beers, free food, brewery tours, live music as well as other cool activities.

 

Sunday, November 7, 2010

 

Saison Sunday School: Dallas, Texas

3:30PM- 5:30PM @ The Common Table

First of all, love the concept. Second of all, this might be the first event I have ever posted in TX. Tonight, guests will explore the often overlooked and under-appreciated spicy and refreshing Belgian farmhouse ales known as Saison. We will do it the only real way I know how… drink some. There will be 6 Saisons paired with 6 different types of food. If you didn’t know already, Saison is beautiful with food. Email jeff@thecommontable.com to reserve a spot!

 

If you go to an event, want us to mention your event or just want to discuss something beer related that is on your mind, please leave a comment or email me at jess@beerblotter.com. Cheers!

 

Events Week of September 20, 2010

Stop by the Iron Abbey and drink to save the Gulf! pic creds: hamburgercalculus.com

Is it Sunday night already? After an eventful weekend in Eastern Washington, I am not ready to let the beer memories fade into my work week. Recap: Whitstran Brewery in Prosser, Horse Heaven Hills Brewery, a stop at a hop farm during the harvesting process, Snipes Brewing Co and a stop at Iron Horse’s new tasting room in downtown Ellensburg.

Also, the GABF 2010 results were released over the weekend. Our Washington winners include a Gold for Hales Ales; a Gold and Bronze for Chuckanut Brewing; a Bronze for Boundary Bay Brewing; and a Silver for Elysian Brewing. Congratulations brewers!

Now for your week in beer.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Victory/3 Floyd’s Night: Chicago, Illinois

6:00PM-11:00PM @ The Fountainhead

Ill let the tap list speak for itself: Victory Scarlet Moon, Three Floyds Apocalypse Cow, Victory Scarlet Fire, Three Floyds Ich Bin Schwarz Genug Fur Dich, Victory Kolsch, Three Floyds Dreadnaught, Victory Hop Wallop, Three Floyds Robert The Bruce, Victory Prusuit Pale Ale AND a firkin of Three Floyds Moloko Stout plus a rare keg of Victory’s Saison Du Buff- the Dogfish head, Stone collab!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Snipes Brewer’s Night: Seattle, Washington

5:00PM- 7:00PM (a guess, the time isnt posted) @ Naked City Brewery and Taphouse

An evening with Snipes Brewing Co.‘s Chris Miller and plenty of samples of his amazing beers. If you see their Bourbon Barrel Aged Porter, Moo Cow (a Belgium), Twangzister Sour Cherry Stout** (Barrel Aged Sour) Diminished Returns Double IPA or their Pumpkin Death ORDER IT. Of course, Snipes’ regular rotations are also worth a taste!

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Mikkeller Beer and Food Tasting: Rochester, New York

8:00PM-10:00PM @ The Old Toad

This menu sounds amazing. I mean the beers alone are from Mikkeller and therefore top notch. $50.00 gets you 5 beers from this Danish brewery and 5 creatively flavorful dishes. It’s Alive! paired with Home smoked trout with warm brewer’s bread and accompaniments, Beer Geek Breakfast with Deconstructed English breakfast, Monks Brew complemented by Cheese and homemade chutney sampler, Jackie Brown served with Wild Boar with Port cherry sauce and 2 dessert choices: Divine Rebel
Infused Panna Cotta with bitter chocolate and Black Hole with Fleur de Sel chocolate truffle. Hot damn!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Abita Save Our Shore and Fallfest: Horsham, Pennsylvania

7:00PM-2:00AM @ Iron Abbey Gastro Pub

You know I love drinking for a cause, so tonight, get out and consume some Abita beers to help the Gulf Coast. In bottles, they are cracking open Abita’s “Save Our Shore” special brew and tapping Turbodog and Fall Fest beginning at 7 p.m. Spend $5.00 and keep your pint with $4 refills. For every bottle sold Abita will donate $0.75 to the rescue and restoration of the environment, industry and individuals fighting to survive the disastrous oil spill.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Dogfish Head Brewery Weekend: Miami Beach, Florida

8:00PM-5:00AM @ Abraxas Lounge

This event marks the release of Dogfish Head’s Bitches Brew. As always, DFH made a beer to tantilize the senses and push the boundaries of innovation. Bitches Brew is described as “a bold dark beer that is a fusion three threads of Imperial Stout and one thread of honey beer with gesho root”… at 9% abv. Cannot wait to try this…if I ever get my hands on it!

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Pumpkin Ale Showdown: Boardman, Ohio

4:00PM-7:00PM @ Vintage Estate Wine and Beer

Its that time of the year- time for beers that are spiced and beers with pumpkin flavors. Today put your palette to the test and decide which brewery has the best pumpkin ale. They will have several pumpkin ales for you to taste and food pairing with the beers.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Fremont Oktoberfest: Seattle, Washington

11AM-6:00PM (beer garden hours) @ Phinney Ave N and N 36th St, outside

This is one of three days (Friday and Saturday) which include races, runs, hunts, beers, food and fun! Check out the event page for more details!

If you go to an event, want us to post about and event or whatever suits you, please leave a comment or email us at beerblotter@gmail.com. Cheers!

Beers in the Hood: Phinney Ridge

Phinney Ridge, a Seattle Neighborhood- check it.

Over the past three years, I have done my share of research on beer spots in Seattle. Every neighborhood has a beer bar, a bar with a decent tap list or a bottle shop to offer those that search the land for all that is fermented yeast. One of the things I love most about Seattle is the variety of neighborhoods (reminiscent of Manhattan) where you step out of one and into the next…almost immediately it becomes obvious that you’re in a whole new world.

Each hood offers distinct characteristics and charm. So in order to give each neighborhood their 15 minutes of fame, I will focus on one at a time.

Tonight: Phinney Ridge.

I’ll start with a nice wiki excerpt:

Phinney Ridge is a neighborhood in north central Seattle, Washington, USA. It is named after the ridge which runs north and south, separating Ballard from Green Lake, from approximately N. 45th to N. 85th Street.

I know for those of you who are not from Seattle or do not live in Seattle, the above quote means little to nothing. Phinney is a quaint neighborhood, very residential with your random spurts of bars, restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques. Ballard’s subtly hip vibe seeps into Phinney, yet Phinney remains the more reserved, less frequented of the two. Here you will find beer.

The Dray

If you read Beer Blotter, then you have heard of The Dray, located on NW 65th right off of 8th and across the street from a massive Goodwill. This bar has so much to offer on any given day. First off, their “brand” is a squirrel, so expect to see some taxidermy on the shelves next to epic and rare Hair of the Dog and Dogfish head bottles.

Photo creds to phinneywood.com. Nice pic!

This tiny space is decked out in wood with slabs of polished tree trunks acting as your bar and table tops. On a cold winter’s night, you couldn’t be cozier. On a warm, sunny summer’s day you are guaranteed a breeze through the open garage doors/windows. The Dray molds to the weather outside; its like some kind of vortex.

Food options include some paninis, landjagers and pretzels with amazing stone ground mustard. I still haven’t figured out if you get charged for the pretzels, but I really doubt it.

But we also go here for beer- 12 taps at any given time. Yes, there are times I have stopped by here and been slightly disenchanted by their beer list, but 9 times out of 10, they will have something unique, something seasonal and something that your heart desires.

Off hand, Ommegang Zuur, New Belgium Love, Dogfish head Immortal Ale and Cascade Apricot come to mind as beers I enjoyed in the past. For that one time out of ten, The Dray has an impressive (and reasonably priced) bottle list, so be sure to check it out!

A gem of a bar, a comfort zone and a beer lovers day well spent.

Sully’s Snowgoose Saloon

Every time I  walk up to Sully‘s it reminds me of a lodge at a mountain resort in the Alps. With a pitched roof and a Bavarian facade, it couldn’t be more welcoming. Inside, it is a dimly lit, eclectic place with quirky decorations, as well as your quintessential Irish pub signs regarding how drunk, humorous, silly and stupid people get. This is another venue where I can spend an entire afternoon shooting the shit over a few pints of beer.

Props to seattleweekly.com for visual insight into Sully's

Like The Dray, Sully’s offers limited menu options. The items they do have include grilled cheese sandwiches, random snacks and some damn good chili. Other than that, throw a buck in the box and grab a bowl of peanuts.

You can always count on Boundary Bay IPA to be served on cask here, as well as several Deschutes taps and a decent IPA selection. I wouldn’t go here if your looking for a unique or rare beer, but quality brews such as Victory Hop Devil and New Belgium Ranger IPA have graced the stage here at Sully’s.

I remember sitting at Sully’s, drinking Boundary Bay IPA with the other 2/3 of Beer Blotter – we were sitting in a booth by the window and it started to hail, hail the size of golf balls. Just a sign from the gods that it was time to order another pint.

The Park Pub

Directly across the street from Sully’s, The Park Pub took much longer to get on our beer radar then the previously mentioned joints. This bar serves as a place to listen to live bands, play pool and grab some dinner.

Overall the ambiance is less comfortable and intimate but one glance at the tap list and all is well in the world. Arranged in a half circle, the taps glisten behind the bar.

Two times to phinneywood.com for having the neighborhood covered and taking great pics!

Note worthy beers currently on tap here: Boundary Bay IPA, Avery ‘Maharaja’ Imperial IPA, Stone Smoked Porter, Lagunitas ‘Lil Sumpin Sumpin’, Laurelwood ‘Hop Monkey’ IPA, Deschutes Organic Amber, Double Mountain Kolsch, Big Time Black IPA
and Rodenbach Grand Cru.

I would recommend this place for a Friday or Saturday night hang out session with a group. Good beers, music, activities and once in awhile, the neighborhood magician will amaze you and stick a card to the ceiling. Take a look next time you are there.

So that’s Phinney Ridge’s beer scene in a nutshell. I have many fond memories and have drank damn good beer at all three of these places. If you have a place that you love in this neighborhood, leave a comment or email us at beerblotter@gmail.com.

Next up: Ballard.

Events for the Week of August 23, 2010

Stop by Stoudts Brewing Co.for their Annual Microbrew Fest this week!

A weekend of home brewing and beers at Fremont Brewing Co., it was quiet and delightful.  Fremont Brewing Co.’s Interurban IPA dry hopped with Centennial and Thai Basil as well as their Summer Solstice with lime are both amazing brews. But now for your beer week ahead.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Saison Du Buff Party: Dayton, Ohio

7:00PM-9:00PM @ South Park Tavern

Stone/Dogfish/Victory Party where all 3 versions of Saison Du Buff on Tap as well as other great beers from these great breweries. Not to be missed!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Bell’s Two-hearted Firkin Event: Greensboro, North Carolina

4:00PM-6:00PM @ Brixx Wood Fire Pizza

The first in the series of three Brixx Cask Events. This month will feature Bell’s Two Hearted Ale and tickets are $20 per person. Tasters receive a hearty Pairings Pizza, a pint of Bell’s Two Hearted Cask AND a regular pint of Two Hearted for a true comparison. A real treat as there are only a few of these firkins in North Carolina.

Wednesday, August 25, 2o1o

Smuttynose Beer Dinner: Brookline, Massachusettes

6:30PM-9:30PM @ American Craft

6 Beers-
5 Courses

Pouring the following Smuttynose beers: 2010 Rouge d’Shire; 2007 Gnome; 2009 J. Lohr Chardonnay Barrel Aged Triple; 2010 Big A I.P.A.; 2008 Imperial Stout; 2006 Wheat Wine (amazing and paired with dessert). Some food highlights include, Chili glazed steak skewers served over a roasted corn and wild rice ragu and Duo of seafood cakes, 1. Crab cake with a sweet chili aioli 2. Lobster cake with Dijon aioli served over a celery root slaw. Tickets are $85.00.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Upright Brewing BBQ Beer Dinner: Portland, Oregon

7:00PM-10:00PM @ Urban Farmer
Chef Matt Christianson of Urban Farmer Restaurant has partnered with Upright Brewing owner and head brewer, Alex Ganum, to celebrate summer’s quintessential ingredients: Beer and Barbecue. Chef Matt and Alex have collaborated on a five-course dinner that pairs Oregon Dungeness crab, Wagyu beef and Afton Field Farm chicken with farmhouse inspired beers that are brewed just a few miles from the restaurant in the Rose Quarter’s Left Bank Project. Price is $65 Per Person plus gratuity. For reservations, contact Urban Farmer at 503-802-4630.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Lost Abbey Night: San Diego, California

5:00PM-7:00PM @ Downtown Johnny Browns

TEN TAPS??? COMPLIMENTARY TRI TIP?? Lost Abbey/Port Brewing is one of my favorite breweries- cant’ go wrong here!

Taps to enjoy: 10 Commandments, Gift Magi, Judgment day, Carnival, Road to Helles, Avant Garde, Red Barn, Angel Share, Devotion

Bottles: Framboise de Amarosa, Red Poppy Bottles (rare, get this!), 09′ Older Viscosity

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Annual Microfest: Adamstown, Pennsylvania

12:00PM-11:00PM @ Stoudts Brewing Co.

From Beer Advocate’s website:

Sample some of the best beers the industry has to offer in your very own festival tasting glass. Soak up those delicious beers with Ed’s “Best of the Wurst” German-style buffet, which includes German sausages, red kraut, potato and pasta salad, and a nice assortment of Eddie’s Breads from the Wonderful Good Market.

The $30 ticket also gets you some great entertainment, and a free shuttle to and from all of the local hotels.

The festival sessions are from NOON- 4PM and 7-11PM. $30 per session. 21+ ONLY!

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Aromas Brewhaha: Athens, Georgia

4:00PM-12:00AM @ Aromas

Today experience an eclectic and rare tap list comprised of the following beers:

Founders Canadian Breakfast Stout (Athens Debut)
Founders Black Biscuit (Athens Debut)
Founders Devil Dancer
Southern Tier Creme Brulee
Terrapin Hopzilla Imperial IPA
The Bruery Tradewinds Triple
Ballast Point Sculpin
Coast Boy King
Cigar City Oatmeal Raisin Cookie
Cigar City Humidor 110K + OT Batch #3
Bell’s Two Hearted Ale Cask

This is one of the best tap lists I have seen in awhile- the Founders and Cigar City beers alone will make this event top notch.

If you want to inform us about an event you plan on going to or want to review an event you went to, please leave a comment or email us at beerblotter@gmail.com. Cheers!

Archives of a Beer Nerd – Third Installment

It all starts with a little beer, and pen to paper.

If this is your first time reading the Archives, take a look at the story behind it all here.  The last time we left off, we completed the epic day of drinking that was 10/4/07, and then moved on to a day about a month later.  The following entries were very brief, but the brews stand quite notable, so I’ve chosen to include them here.  Happy reading.

I hope that, if nothing else, my words whet your appetite to get out and acquire these special treats yourself and expand on our thoughts via comments or emails to beerblotter@gmail.com.

11/24/07

Victory Brewing Co. (Downingtown, PA) – V Twelve

The “Twelve” stands for the ABV.  “Liquid Luxury” indeed.  Copper, almost red rusty color.  The head dissipates fairly quickly, surprisingly, due to the corked, Belgian style bottle conditioning.  Smells kind of yeasty.  Dried fruits barely make it through.  Surprisingly drinkable for the strength.  A tad of an alcohol bite… a little warmth but by no means overpowering.  Amazing balance!  Very rich and sweet.  The alcohol becomes more and more relevant as it warms.

Timperial Commentary: This beer is huge!  As you may know, my Eastern PA roots and Victory’s penchant for making exciting beers made for quite an amiable match in the early days of my beer drinking coming-of-age.  This was, most likely, the highest ABV beer I’d ever had up until senior year of college when I forced down the extremely brandy-like Triple Bock from Sam Adams (17.5%).  I haven’t had this beer since the date above and if this doesn’t make you want some, well it has done the trick on me.

Picture courtesy of http://www.drinkwiththewench.com

12/1/07

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (Milton, DE) – Red and White

Brewed with coriander and orange peel with pinot noir juice concentrate added with 11% aged in pinot noir barrels and 89% aged in oak barrel staves.  Brown and reddish color, glows around the edges when put to the light.  Nice, pleasant thin head.  Clean and crisp with a pleasurable carbonation.  10% ABV… and you can taste it, though not overpowering.  It is not very obvious that this beer was oaked, but the wine is present.  There is a sweet grape juiciness present for sure.  Very unique and very good!

Timperial Commentary: This is half of the Red and White / Black and Blue series.  The only real similarity between the two is the naming convention and the yeast strain… oh and the fact that they are both amazing… but you probably knew that when you read the name of the brewery.

12/7/07

Unibroue (Chambly, Quebec, Canada) – Don De Dieu

9% Belgian ale made with wheat.  Golden color with a thin head that remains.  Amazing nose of wheat and yeast.  Not overly carbonated.  Very sweet with some slight notes of nuttiness.  Alcohol is present as it warms.  I love this beer!  I have a new-found respect for wheat!

Timperial Commentary: I’m so glad that this came up in the archive because I was just talking about this beer with a friend.  I don’t remember exactly how it came up in conversation… it may have had something to do with the fact that wheat beers are on my mind this time of year.  It also could have stemmed out of conversations about breweries that have been bought out my big money corporations but have continued to make stellar beers in the same fashion that they did prior to the buy out.  This concept was mentioned in my most recent Notes of a Beer Nerd.  Amidst the conversation, I came to the conclusion that Don De Dieu is one of my favorite wheat based beers, at least from North American brewers.  I want this beer in my mouth right now!  It is such a brilliant take on Belgian beers, with a bit of a twist that yields fantastic results.  If you have never had this beer before, you must get it ASAP!

Events for the week of June 7, 2010

City Tap House in Philly, PA. "Great Food- Craft Brewed"

Is it really Monday again? Sure enough we had a weekend excursion..where to? Wenatchee, WA along with Cashmere, Leavenworth and Ellensburg.  Along the way we drank Deschutes Hop Henge and Jubel at the Applewood Grille, enjoyed a German brew at Munchen Haus in Leavenworth and stopped at Iron Horse Brewing Co. for some IPA, Hefe (6%!!) and Biere De Garde.  Always a good time. Now, for times to come….

Monday, June 7, 2010

Bell’s World Record Draft Event: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

7:00PM-11:00PM  @ City Tap House

31 different and rare beers on tap tonight, all from Bell’s Brewing Co. Oh man….this event is amazing. Fresh Hop Slam and Golden Funk, Kal Haven Brett Rye Ale, Black Note and Sparkling Ale, Oracle, Wheat Love, Deb’s Red, Q Falls Lager, or Bourbon Barrel Hell Hath.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

3rd Annual Belgium Beer Festival: Queens, New York

6:00 PM- 4:00AM @ Sunswick 35/35

Can’t get to Belgium? Then just go to this event: 5 rotating Belgian beers on tap. Six specialty bottled beers will also be available. The menu will feature Belgian-inspired dishes, such as Belgian cheese plates, waffles, fries, and salads. Check out Brugze Zot, Saison Dupont, Westmalle Trappiste Tripel and more!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Meet and Greet with Great Lakes Brewing Co.: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

6:00PM- 8:00PM @ the Devil’s Den

Owner of Great Lakes Brewing Co., Pat Conway will be here to discuss and enjoy his beers with you. GLBC, out of Cleveland OH, makes amazing brews, ranging from Blackout Stout to an unbelievable Christmas Ale. Their American style IPA, Commodore Perry and their Burning River Pale Ale are also not to be missed.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Victory Beer Dinner: Purcellville, Virginia

7:00PM-9:00PM @ Magnolias at the Mill

This $80.00 dinner will be worth every penny….6 courses (including a greeting beer) will be paired with Victory Brewing Co. beers.  8 beers will be tasted including Old Horizontal Barleywine and Wild Devil!!! Enjoy!

Friday, June 11, 2010

Allagash Night: San Diego, California

5:00PM-8:00PM @ Downtown Johnny Browns

The beer line up for the Allagash Night will include: Curieux, Victor, Victoria, Confluence, Wit, Interlude, Odyssey, Fluxus 09′, Four and Dubbel. Also, enjoy some smoked brisket with a Curieux BBQ sauce! Check out Johnny Browns for brewer nights in the future.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Monthly Brew Day: Anthem, Arizona

9:00AM-5:00PM @ Hops and Tannins

If you don’t have room at home or want to get out to meet other home brewers, this is the event for you! Equipment is available for purchase at the store. But feel free to bring your own equipment to this event. You will have access to electricity, running water, a workbench area and use of two propane burners on a first come, first served basis. As a part of “buy here, brew here”, an area to store fermenters will be provided in shop if needed and access on Saturdays to transfer/rack, and bottle. For more information, call 623-551-9857.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Sunday Funday with New Belgium Brewing: Fort Worth, Texas

2:00PM – 5:00PM @ Ginger Man

New Belgium beers on tap, money spent will go towards The Ryan Family YMCA Step Up for Kids program. Give back on a Sunday while enjoying brews from NB. If they have Eric’s Sour Ale on tap- get it!

That’s it, that’s all. Email us at beerblotter@gmail.com or leave a comment if you want to discuss an event, want us to post an event or just want to talk about beer! Cheers!

Notes of a Beer Nerd: Victory Brewing Co. Storm King Imperial Stout

Storm King: Bringing the best out of PA beer.

***Notes of a Beer Nerd is a column written by resident cellar dwelling mammal, Timperial Stout. Feel free to e-mail him at beerblotter@gmail.com with any questions, concerns or comments***

Enjoyed on 5/22/2010

Brewery: Victory Brewing Co.

Location: Downingtown, PA

Beer: Storm King

Web: http://www.victorybeer.com/

Presentation: 12 oz. – Brown Glass Bottle – Capped

Vintage: 2007

Style: Imperial Stout

Barrel: N/A

ABV: 9.1%

IBU: N/A

Hops: American whole flowers

Malt: Imported 2 row

Vessel: Snifter

Recommended Serving Temp: 55 degrees

Notes From the Bottle: Emerging from the deepest shades of darkness, a rolling crescendo of flavors burst forth from this robust stout.  The thundering, hoppy appeal of Storm King subsides into the mellow subtleties of roasted malt, exhibiting an espresso-like depth of character in its finish.  An exquisite blend of imported malts and whole flower American hops merge harmoniously in this complex ale.  Discover the dark intrigue of Storm King, as it reveals the rich, substantial flavors that it holds within.  Cheers!  Signed – Bill and Ron, the brewmasters of Victory.  Best enjoyed by 7/2012.

Food Pairings: Smoked meats, chocolate, deserts

Cheese Pairings: Gouda, brie, swiss

Beer Advocate: A-

Rate Beer: 100 (4.06)

Timperialstout’s Notes:

Seattle Beer Week has gotten the best of me.  My event schedule, whether it be for my own pleasure or at the will of my employer (which is still pretty damn pleasurable I must admit), has ensnared all of my availability over the last 10 days.  Near the beginning of the week, when my energy level was high, I was able to pump out my guide to Stout Fest.  I had great hopes of drafting a similar guide to Sour Fest, but time did not allow.  Now that SBW is over, though I’m a bit sad to see her go, I can finally breath.  I can get some sleep.  I can remember what it’s like to wake up without a hangover.

I had a lot of really, really good beers from all over the country over the past week.  I met a lot of really great people in the industry.  I met a lot of beer lovers.  I think I’ll look back on SBW 2010 with very fond memories.

The night of this tasting was one of great reminiscence.  A night to mull over the greatness, to enshrine the memories created over the previous days.  Not only that, but to reminisce on the beginnings of Timperial Stout.  To take a time machine journey to a young man’s first sips of imperial stout, that precious beverage that would inevitably endow him with a nick-name.

Incase you haven’t put the pieces together, Storm King was the first imperial stout I ever tasted.  Downingtown, PA is just a small hop, skip, and jump from where I grew up.  To put it lightly, Storm King is my monarch.  He has had a large hand in molding me.

This one has been aging in the cellar for 3 years now, and a classic imperial stout just seemed right for such an evening of recollection.  It was not a hard decision.

The King pours opaque as one would imagine, with a head of mocha that rises much more than expected on a vigorous pour, but still very little than an inch off the inky fluid.  The bubbles subside in a few minutes to a mere ring and wisp, leaving a small bit of residue on the glass walls.  The slightest bit of light makes it through the edges, but in the depths… there is no escape for the brightest illumination.  Consider the “dark intrigue” discovered, without a single sip.

The odor is overwhelming me with its complexity.  There is so much going on I don’t know where to start.  Adjectives like deep and distinguished come to mind.  Ironically, this brew seems to be built for the mature palate.  It posses a combination of tobacco, smoked peat, and baker’s chocolate, with a bit of a medicinal quality as well.  The alcohol is quite present.  I’m reminded of smelling vanilla extract with its warming sensation deep in the nose.  Age seems to be flying its flag quite predominantly here.  Hops may be the producer of a bit of earth and medicine, but no traditional alpha characteristics can be found.

I just may bundle this brew in with the Arcadia Impy Stout for its ability to drop you in the red-hot coals of a BBQ.  Smoke rises from the feet of a magician named Bill Covaleski.

Once the holy liquid hits the tongue, all preconceptions previously communicated from the nose are solidified into truth.  A common slick and soft mouthfeel puts me at ease right from the get go…ahhh, that’s my impy stout, thank you friend, you’ve been missed.

Though this monster has clearly been bequeathed with malty mischief, there isn’t a lot of sweetness.  Like I said, this is for the veteran palate.

Though no bit of the fluid should suggests a chalkiness, the flavors speak of ingesting the work of mortar and pestle.  If a mocha could be solidified, then ground down to dust and fermented, this would be the result.  Barrel aged, peated scotch may be akin to the Storm King as well, I can’t help but mention that infiltrating thought.

Post-swallow I’m a bit cotton-mouthed under the tongue, but the back corners of my mouth are moist with confusion.  What aftertaste lingers?  I think of devil’s food cake, but the sweetness is extracted.  A very high cocoa content perhaps.   A bit of clinging, oily black coffee or espresso.  Have I smoked a cigar recently?  Have I breathed deeply beside the bonfire for a bit too long.  My mouth could be burnt without the pain.

Smoke signals sent high above the treeline convey my peace with the world at this moment.  I’ve been rejoined by an old friend, and in good company I transcend.

If you like Storm King, you should try…

Arcadia Ales‘ Imperial Stout; Stone Brewing Co.’s Russian Imperial Stout; Founders Brewing Co.’s Kentucky Breakfast Stout

Disclaimer: This beer was purchased on my own with my own hard-earned money at a local bottle shop, and aged to perfection by yours truly.