Beer you are drinking right now

[iceman44]

Yeah, well. We all know Black Label remains at the top of any beer list.

[northgagator]

I had a decent beer weekend.
I'm Friday I was at Wild Wings I Suwanee. I had a Fat Tire Belgium IPA (AKA The Ranger). This was a great beer. A little too hoppy for my usual preference, but it went well with the real hot wings and the great onion wings.
Tonight I am at a Mellow Mushroom and I am having a Sweet Water Exodus (a Porter). This beer by itself is great but even better with a Calzone.

[phatGator]

Last week I went to Bonefish Grill's yearly free-appetizer evening. I started to order a foreign bottle stout but thought of Strange's comments on preservatives. I switched and tried the Dogfish 90 min IPA. Strong but good.

So, Strange, do the imported kegs have preservatives also?

[raycgator]

Not right now, but last night I had an Estrella Damm, it's a beer from Spain and my wife and I drank it all the time when we stayed there.

:yum:

[StrangeGator]

Last week I went to Bonefish Grill's yearly free-appetizer evening. I started to order a foreign bottle stout but thought of Strange's comments on preservatives. I switched and tried the Dogfish 90 min IPA. Strong but good.

So, Strange, do the imported kegs have preservatives also?

Good question. Maybe kegs get shipped and used much quicker, but I don't know. I always thought draft beer was preservative free.

[phatGator]

Good question. Maybe kegs get shipped and used much quicker, but I don't know. I always thought draft beer was preservative free.

That's what I reasoned.

[Wuerffel5220]

Ill be picking up some sweetwater 420 when i head to gainesville this weekend. They dont sell it here in tampa

[anstro76]

Ill be picking up some sweetwater 420 when i head to gainesville this weekend. They dont sell it here in tampa

bring me some back to st pete

Sent from my mind using esp

[mexicanconnection2002]

Lagunitas Little Sumpin Wild followed by my home brewed Imperial Stout.

[StrangeGator]

Lagunitas Little Sumpin Wild followed by my home brewed Imperial Stout.

Had one of those Sunday night after my beer-less March. Followed that with a Rochefort
#10. Was craving an Orval that night, but Whole Foods was out. The Rochefort was actually a better finale than the Orval would have been. Damn that stuff as a kick. Felt almost nothing after a bomber of Little Sumpin' Wild. Then I had the 11oz bottle of #10, and my head was spinning.

[StrangeGator]

Ill be picking up some sweetwater 420 when i head to gainesville this weekend. They dont sell it here in tampa

Surely you can find a better APA than that in Tampa. I've had 420 a few times now and I was underwhelmed. It wasn't unpleasant, but nothing stood out. There are so many good beers in this style, a newer craft brewery has to do something exceptional to get attention.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Had one of those Sunday night after my beer-less March. Followed that with a Rochefort
#10. Was craving an Orval that night, but Whole Foods was out. The Rochefort was actually a better finale than the Orval would have been. Damn that stuff as a kick. Felt almost nothing after a bomber of Little Sumpin' Wild. Then I had the 11oz bottle of #10, and my head was spinning.


Lagunitas hides the 9.4% abv pretty well in Sumpin Wild, but after a few you know it's in there. Following that with a bottle of Rochefort 10 will definitely have the head spinning.

[LeafUF]

Having beers at the ball park on opening day. Gotta love AAA opening day is also $1 Budweiser night.

[phatGator]

Shiner Ryes and Shine. Interesting rye hops.

First time to have this one, but I've liked Shiner, especially the bock, since the days it wasn't sold outside Tejas.

[etennant]

Kirkland Signature IPA. Actually quite hoppy and a nice medium flavor. First time I tried this from Costco and at only 71cents per bottle a good deal

[GatorAbe7]

Lookie what I found

https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSWR3xpliIpcX3N7D50sOsrCJ25i9YB9 UDBdB9qF--N1HIUKkPU

[amangator08]

Drinking New Belgium's "Shift" that was just released. It only comes in 4 packs of cans, and it's pretty solid.

[StrangeGator]

Picked up a four pack of Founders Double Trouble on the way back from picking up my wife and daughter at the airport (my daughter's ninth college visit). Had one before dinner and one during. That's usually all I need, but my wife and daughter got into an argument and tried to drag me into it, so I drank the other two. It's 9.4% abv. I don't know if I won the argument or it was postponed due to intoxication. Neither of them is talking to me today.

[StrangeGator]

Oh yea. It was good. Nice pine and citrus aroma. Full bodied and flavorful with a grapefruity, resiny bitterness some alcohol sweetness. Went very well with the lovely Mexican dinner I made to welcome home the girls from their trip. Our family therapist would probably say that drinking four of those is a maladaptive strategy for dealing with disagreements. I would add that it's a good way to not get Sunday morning nookie.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Couple of Lagunitas Imperial Red Ales last night after sampling my homebrewed Belgian Pale Ale and English Bitter.

[StrangeGator]

Drinking New Belgium's "Shift" that was just released. It only comes in 4 packs of cans, and it's pretty solid.

Saw that in Whole Foods last night. What style is it?

Chris, the beverage manager there told me he's getting some surprises in later this week and he's going to hold something for me.

[phatGator]

Lagunitas Pilsner on tap. I normally prefer ales but this actually had some good flavor.

[northgagator]

Had a Fat Tire New Belgium IPA , AKA the Ranger. Goes great with hot wings and onion rings!

[StrangeGator]

Drinking New Belgium's "Shift" that was just released. It only comes in 4 packs of cans, and it's pretty solid.

Saw the whole New Belgium lineup in Whole Foods. They're getting Shift in bombers, but now selling Fat Tire in cans. Ranger also comes in bombers, which doesn't make sense to me. I like my session ales in six packs. Bombers are best when it's a strong enough beer that you would only drink 22 oz. If it's under 7% or 80 IBUs, I'll usually drink three, but rarely four. I don't like to buy two bombers just to recap the second one half way through.

[LeafUF]

Pretty sure I saw the Ranger in a 4 pack of cans yesterday at the liquor store also. But I could be wrong on that. Heading out to Coachella in a few and they have a no glass policy so picked up the Shift 4 pack to give it a shot along with about 20 other beers. Guarantee my buddies bring Miller Lite, which will be good to have given that it will be hot out there and we need to stay hydrated.

[StrangeGator]

Pretty sure I saw the Ranger in a 4 pack of cans yesterday at the liquor store also. But I could be wrong on that. Heading out to Coachella in a few and they have a no glass policy so picked up the Shift 4 pack to give it a shot along with about 20 other beers. Guarantee my buddies bring Miller Lite, which will be good to have given that it will be hot out there and we need to stay hydrated.

It makes sense that they would. It's probably just my store. I'll ask the beverage manager tomorrow. I need to talk to him anyway. He's off today, but has been holding some stuff for me in the back.

That's great that you can bring your own beer into the festival. No such luck at Lolla or P4k. Have a great time.

[gator7_5]

Bells two hearted. And someone tried to steal a sip, I would punch them in the face.

[Swampmaster]

Shiner ruby redbird

[chrise9885]

Bud Light

[StrangeGator]

Bells two hearted. And someone tried to steal a sip, I would punch them in the face.

Wouldn't blame you. If it was Bells Hop Slam, I'd shoot them.

[iceman44]

Not drinking anything right now, but two crawfish boils this weekend to attend, so there will be some serious beer drinking to attend to.

Man, I love this time of the year in New Orleans.

[StrangeGator]

Just picked up something new on my way home from the dojo, a four-pack of Green Flash Palate Wrecker. It's a 9.5% ABV Imperial IPA. The carton says "West Coast Style" but Chris at Whole Foods says it a Belgian style, though it doesn't seem to have that floral character. Pours nicely. Huge head, nice orange glow. The head settled down quickly. Starting to get some decent lacing. It's got nice alcohol to hops balance to it, but nothing sticks out. It's actually maltier than most IIPAs. I really don't taste that much alcohol, though I can feel the warmth come on after I swallow it. I'll have to see how it tastes with my pizza.

[StrangeGator]

I think the problem is not with the beer but with me. I've been drinking so many DIPAs lately that my palate is already wrecked.

[StrangeGator]

Can't recommend this one. Not at $12 a four-pack.

I can say one good thing about Palette Wrecker. I drank for what seemed like two hours and then slid off the couch into bed and went to sleep instantly. Just looked in the fridge and there are still too left. Felt like I drank three or four. Can't recommend Palette Wrecker over DFH 90, but it beats the heck out of Ambien.

[anstro76]

no beer tonight, it's a vodka, weed type o night

[g8rkim]

Shock Top

[northgagator]

Samuel Adams Chocolate Bock. Nice flavor and not overdo e.

[phatGator]

Yuengling Lite Lager. My visiting sister-in-law bought it. I didn't like it at all. I know people that drool over Yuengling. I just don't get it.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Home brewed Saison with Sorachi Ace hops. Lemon pepper flavors/aroma with hint of clove.

[lwg8tr]

The Dom Perignon of beers..made by Trappist monks with the best ingredients in the world and a local underground water source. 100's of years old brewing tradition.

http://www.monasterygreetings.com/images/uploads/itemB39_250_x_404.jpg

Nothing I have tasted comes close. It's very complex,... sweet, hoppy. It's sublime. Its very good with food or an after dinner beer. There is beer, even IPAs made by Ivy League Ex- Stockbrokers in Tumbleweed , Nebraska with trendy tough sounding names.... and then there is Chimay.

[GatorAbe7]

Ended my 31 day beer fast two days ago by going easy with this:

https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQUpgv7oR_f1_bLOXTs1pjDiU3M5UP15 Qz5wH7LFmOtcmUNOoiSEA

[anstro76]

The Dom Perignon of beers..made by Trappist monks with the best ingredients in the world and a local underground water source. 100's of years old brewing tradition.

http://www.monasterygreetings.com/images/uploads/itemB39_250_x_404.jpg

Nothing I have tasted comes close. It's very complex,... sweet, hoppy. It's sublime. Its very good with food or an after dinner beer. There is beer, even IPAs made by Ivy League Ex- Stockbrokers in Tumbleweed , Nebraska with trendy tough sounding names.... and then there is Chimay.

couple of weeks ago mazzaro's did a pairing of all the chimay beers w/ the chimay cheeses for free..i was there from when it started til it finished..then went to the record store across the street..a great way to start the weekend.

[StrangeGator]

The Dom Perignon of beers..made by Trappist monks with the best ingredients in the world and a local underground water source. 100's of years old brewing tradition.

http://www.monasterygreetings.com/images/uploads/itemB39_250_x_404.jpg

Nothing I have tasted comes close. It's very complex,... sweet, hoppy. It's sublime. Its very good with food or an after dinner beer. There is beer, even IPAs made by Ivy League Ex- Stockbrokers in Tumbleweed , Nebraska with trendy tough sounding names.... and then there is Chimay.

Chimay is great, but so are all the Trappist ales. My favorite is Orval. I think they're actually 1000 years old now. I also like Westmalle and Rochefort. I've never tasted Achel or Westvleteren.

[amangator08]

Just picked up something new on my way home from the dojo, a four-pack of Green Flash Palate Wrecker. It's a 9.5% ABV Imperial IPA. The carton says "West Coast Style" but Chris at Whole Foods says it a Belgian style, though it doesn't seem to have that floral character. Pours nicely. Huge head, nice orange glow. The head settled down quickly. Starting to get some decent lacing. It's got nice alcohol to hops balance to it, but nothing sticks out. It's actually maltier than most IIPAs. I really don't taste that much alcohol, though I can feel the warmth come on after I swallow it. I'll have to see how it tastes with my pizza.

Has this on draft at the local taproom last night, and it was pretty solid. I also had the New Belgium Cocoa Mole. Verrry interesting beer.

[StrangeGator]

Has this on draft at the local taproom last night, and it was pretty solid. I also had the New Belgium Cocoa Mole. Verrry interesting beer.

I had it on draft Monday night. It was a bit more flavorful, though I still didn't get anything "Belgian" from it.

[gators_8]

victory golden monkey

[muschamp1]

Kalik beer of the Bahamas or carlsberg.

[StrangeGator]

victory golden monkey

They sell that at the bar across from my dad's condo in Panama City.

[GatorAbe7]

All four cans last night...
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRzFFjzPJ_8p9Ng5zuiJQVRzLtvYMvvt 6yt_JlmtoPAc2okpMTfUA

[northgagator]

Yesterday afternoon I was at SAMs and I purchase a variety 24 pack of Sam Adams. Six different brews. I will report back latter today.

[phatGator]

Shiner Kosmos the other day. Very nice.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Just posted this in the other thread, but figure I'd stick it here too. For my fellow Jacksonville beer drinkers, I am opening a craft beer store in riverside in mid May, called Beer:30. We are starting off with about 600 different varieties, as well as some wine. Once we get our inventory in I plan on making a post here. I'll give anyone a discount that stops by from gatorcountry

As for what I'm drinking now, Avery's IPA and I picked up a 4 pack of Oskar blues deviant dale's IPA in Atlanta that I can't wait to crack into on a special occasion.

[phatGator]

Just posted this in the other thread, but figure I'd stick it here too. For my fellow Jacksonville beer drinkers, I am opening a craft beer store in riverside in mid May, called Beer:30. We are starting off with about 600 different varieties, as well as some wine. Once we get our inventory in I plan on making a post here. I'll give anyone a discount that stops by from gatorcountry

As for what I'm drinking now, Avery's IPA and I picked up a 4 pack of Oskar blues deviant dale's IPA in Atlanta that I can't wait to crack into on a special occasion.

Good luck with the store!

A craft store around here let's you fill a six pack with any six beers. It lets you try a lot of different ones. Will you do something like that?

[channingcrowderhungry]

Good luck with the store!

A craft store around here let's you fill a six pack with any six beers. It lets you try a lot of different ones. Will you do something like that?

Thanks! The entire back wall of the store is a build your own six pack section.

[LeafUF]

Surprising that you would go with that name or even be allowed to given that it used already. And I wouldnt want to associate with that beer.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ADaLjK-BdJM/S-2iIk15RnI/AAAAAAAABKE/X3W4aH-8YjM/s1600/beer30.jpg

[channingcrowderhungry]

Surprising that you would go with that name or even be allowed to given that it used already. And I wouldnt want to associate with that beer.



Yeah. I've actually never had that beer but heard it was terrible. It wasn't registered in Florida, so we snatched it here. "Beer:30 A Craft Beer Emporium."

[LeafUF]

I drank it in Kentucky and yea it is terrible.

Best of luck with the store. I'm not in jax much but would stop in for a tasting if I were in town. We only have total wine out here. Which is great but because its a chain some stores have better beer selection than others.

[GatorWon]

Down from chapel hill for a week on sanibel island and enjoying a Stella. Do wish I had a duck rabbit stout though, but that would be the "what beer you wished you were having thread".

[StrangeGator]

Just picked up a four-pack of Founders Double Trouble DIPA. Just poured it into a my favorite pint glass with the orange and blue lettering. Pours very light for DIPA, more gold than orange. The fragrance is heavy with hops. Grapefruit and pine are the most recognizable notes. Not much head on it and it dissipates pretty quickly. That's typical of a high alcohol beer. I think this is in the +9% range. You can tell when you take the first sip. This one is warming me up right away. Very thick and sticky. The malt flavor is very faint, which is fine with me.

This is one of my favorite DIPAs, right up there with Hop Slam, Dreadnaught and DFH 90.

[northgagator]

Thanks! The entire back wall of the store is a build your own six pack section.

Where in he Riverside area?
Five Points is cool and you will get a lot of foot traffic there. Stockton and Park or King and Park are great locations too. St Johns and Ingleside is nice but a little off the beaten path.

[LeafUF]

Not for right now but I just picked up a rogue voodoo doughnut which is a maple Bacon ale. It was just too outrageous to pass on.

[chrisleakfan4life]

I might pick up a 6 pack of something tonight after work.

Not sure what ill get though

Sent from my iPhone using GatorCountry

[channingcrowderhungry]

Where in he Riverside area?
Five Points is cool and you will get a lot of foot traffic there. Stockton and Park or King and Park are great locations too. St Johns and Ingleside is nice but a little off the beaten path.

Right on the corner of park and king in fact. By the new pele's wood fire grill (opened by a fellow gator). Stop by in a few weeks!

[northgagator]

Right on the corner of park and king in fact. By the new pele's wood fire grill (opened by a fellow gator). Stop by in a few weeks!

Great location. Good community with a lot of foot traffic
Also, just a short dropoff from I-10.
You should do very well at that location.
I live in the Atlanta area, but I have a lot of Jax friends /family and I will tell them about your new business venture.
Good Luck.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Great location. Good community with a lot of foot traffic
Also, just a short dropoff from I-10.
You should do very well at that location.
I live in the Atlanta area, but I have a lot of Jax friends /family and I will tell them about your new business venture.
Good Luck.

Thanks! I was actually inspired by Hop City in Atalanta when I was there back in November. My buddy was pumped to take me there, and I walked in and said, "this place would do great in riverside." 6 months later, here we go!

[StrangeGator]

Haven't been to jax in 15 years. At least now I have a reason. I do have friends I can send your way.

It will be interesting to see what beers you're able to get. There are a lot of great west coast beers we can't get here in Chicago because they limit their distribution beyond the nearby states. Hopefully you'll be able to get hooked up with the great midwestern breweries like Three Floyds, Founders, Bells and Goose Island. Keep an eye out for Boulevard. They're doing some great things.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Thanks! We can get a good variety, but A LOT of brewerys don't go south of Georgia for some reason. Possibly because miami is so far south, who knows. Boulevard hasn't expanded past the Midwest and northeast yet. Of the ones you listed, the only one we can get in is Bell's. Can't wait for some two hearted!

[LeafUF]

Bells Java Stout is awesome. But then again I love coffee and therefore am more likely to enjoy beers that incorporate that flavor.

[StrangeGator]

Thanks! We can get a good variety, but A LOT of brewerys don't go south of Georgia for some reason. Possibly because miami is so far south, who knows. Boulevard hasn't expanded past the Midwest and northeast yet. Of the ones you listed, the only one we can get in is Bell's. Can't wait for some two hearted!

With their lineup, you can go a long way with Bells. Forgot to mention New Holland. Can you get any of their stuff? Inbev/AB owns Goose Island now. You should talk to your rep about getting their stuff. They make some great stouts and Belgian knock-offs. They launched a premium barley wine last year, King Henry, that made it into the Beer Advocate's top 10 immediately after it was released.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Yea I just read that on goose island, I'll have to find out the deal with my distributor, because I know it's not in Florida yet. New holland doesn't make it past south Carolina according to their site. Bummer. I know Avery Brewery distributes to Tampa but not jax, so I may drive down once a month to stock up. Keep sending me good breweries to look into if you think of any more!

[mexicanconnection2002]

Keep sending me good breweries to look into if you think of any more!


Lagunitas
Great Divide
Stone
Cigar City

[StrangeGator]

Lagunitas
Great Divide
Stone
Cigar City

I'll second those choices. The first three have substantial craft beer lines and seem to have very broad distribution. San Diego's Lagunitas has been around Chicago since I moved back in '03. Stone, also from San Diego, came in two years ago with their own sales team and a distribution partnership with Two Brothers. Great Divide, who is think is from Boulder came in about five or six years ago with six or seven great beers. They add something new every year. Very creative and reasonably priced with a nice mix of every day beers and high octane novelties. They were all over the place when I was in Aspen back in February.Have never tried Cigar City, but they are getting a big buzz on the beeradvocate.com.

San Diego is the craft brewing capital of the world right now.

[StrangeGator]

Here are a few more suggestions, based partely on who is more likely to ship to North Florida; Brooklyn Brewery, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Rogue Ales Brewery, Bear Republic, Victory Brewing Company…

More to come. I'll talk to my friends at Goose Island and find out who they think is expanding the most geographically.

[scbeerman]

Strange,

You are giving very good advice on craft breweries. I am fortunate to distribute Dogfish Head and find their beers to be among the finest made. However, they are not for everyone as they are usually above 7-8% in ABV. Their 90 minute IPA is to die for. If you can get your hands on their single bottle offerings, grab one and age it a year.

I was lucky enough to have a friend ship me some New Glarus beer. New Glarus only sells their product in their home state of Wisconsin, so I am excited to have some of their beers. I have had the Spotted Cow several times, their flagship brew, and I am anxious to try the others. I will post my tasting notes as I try them.

[LeafUF]

Taking a boat out on Lake Mead this weekend. Anyone got some boating appropriate beers they would like to suggest?

[LeafUF]

Strange,

You are giving very good advice on craft breweries. I am fortunate to distribute Dogfish Head and find their beers to be among the finest made. However, they are not for everyone as they are usually above 7-8% in ABV. Their 90 minute IPA is to die for. If you can get your hands on their single bottle offerings, grab one and age it a year.

I was lucky enough to have a friend ship me some New Glarus beer. New Glarus only sells their product in their home state of Wisconsin, so I am excited to have some of their beers. I have had the Spotted Cow several times, their flagship brew, and I am anxious to try the others. I will post my tasting notes as I try them.

Man, I love Dogfish Head and one of the few things I miss from being in the mid Atlantic are their ale houses. Those places always had great beer and good food.

[StrangeGator]

Strange,

You are giving very good advice on craft breweries. I am fortunate to distribute Dogfish Head and find their beers to be among the finest made. However, they are not for everyone as they are usually above 7-8% in ABV. Their 90 minute IPA is to die for. If you can get your hands on their single bottle offerings, grab one and age it a year.

I was lucky enough to have a friend ship me some New Glarus beer. New Glarus only sells their product in their home state of Wisconsin, so I am excited to have some of their beers. I have had the Spotted Cow several times, their flagship brew, and I am anxious to try the others. I will post my tasting notes as I try them.

Probably best to stick to the basics with Dogfish Head. They make some very unusual beers, but also some good everyday beers. Been drinking the 90 Minute IPA for six or seven years. Currently have a single bottle of 120 Minute IPA sitting on a high shelf in my kitchen, just waiting for the right opportunity.

Been hearing great things about New Glarus. Was just up in Madison a couple of weeks ago touring the university with my daughter. Should have picked up a six of something.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Here are a few more suggestions, based partely on who is more likely to ship to North Florida; Brooklyn Brewery, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Rogue Ales Brewery, Bear Republic, Victory Brewing Company…

More to come. I'll talk to my friends at Goose Island and find out who they think is expanding the most geographically.

Appreciate the info. I know we can get most of those except Bear Republic. I just looked up Firestone and saw they are available in Florida, but I'll have to contact them to find their distributor. Haven't seen them in Jacksonville ever.

As a side note, had my birthday last night and everyone that showed up brought a variety of beers. We stocked my girlfriends fridge full. It was heavenly.

[amangator08]

Strange,

I consider myself a beer snob, and I am in awe of your knowledge, brother. Impressive.

A co-worker in Tampa has been going to events at Cigar City with her husband, and she's shipped me some of their Ybor Espresso, or whatever it's called. It reminded me a lot of a good milk stout.

[StrangeGator]

Strange,

I consider myself a beer snob, and I am in awe of your knowledge, brother. Impressive.

A co-worker in Tampa has been going to events at Cigar City with her husband, and she's shipped me some of their Ybor Espresso, or whatever it's called. It reminded me a lot of a good milk stout.

Thanks, but there are a few others on this board who know much more than me.

Wish Cigar City was around when I lived in Tampa.

[jsc28]

Thanks, but there are a few others on this board who know much more than me.

Wish Cigar City was around when I lived in Tampa.

They are opening a place at the airport, where they will actually brew a special beer. I don't think it has opened yet. Anybody been to the SW terminal in the past few weeks? Here is the info on it:

http://www.tampaairport.com/about/media/articles/cigar-city-brewing.asp

[StrangeGator]

Went to Grand Rapids this weekend for an Aikido Seminar. We all went to dinner together Saturday night at a pan-Asian place. Everyone who was old enough to drink had Founders Centennial IPA. Went very well with the Panang Curry I had. Went to the Founders brewery after dinner. Enjoyed a couple of pints of Double Trouble. Damn that's good on tap. The place was crazy. There was a very loud band playing southern rock covers and a very drunk and boisterous crowd. I guess it's about the biggest go our and party place in town. That was a bit much for me. I like a little quieter scene at a brew pub.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Jealous of that story. Just had the Stone 15 year anniversary. Was great, and 10% abv!

[RayUF07]

Cigar City Maduro tonight. It's become one of my favorites of late. I will drink some of their Jai Lai IPA tomorrow. It's also pretty good.

A few days ago I tried the Dogfish Head 90 Minute Imperial for the first time....I was surprised to find it extremely enjoyable. It will move into my regular rotation.

[toon66]

They are opening a place at the airport, where they will actually brew a special beer. I don't think it has opened yet. Anybody been to the SW terminal in the past few weeks? Here is the info on it:

http://www.tampaairport.com/about/media/articles/cigar-city-brewing.asp

This great news. The only thing lacking from our great airport is local fare.

[StrangeGator]

Drinking Double Dog again. I know it's not news, but I hate seeing this thread three pages deep on the pub on a Friday night. Cheers, Salute and L'Chaim.

[StrangeGator]

I guess I'm going to have to carry this board.

Both kids are out for the night, son is playing Dungeons and Dragons, daughter is at Metro for the Group Love concert, so my wife and I have the house to ourselves. Picked up some sushi for dinner, but also some exotic cheeses and some beer for me. Got a bomber of Avery Maharaja Imperial IPA and a half pound of Blue Valdeon, a Spanish blue cheese made from cow and goat milk. They went great together. Love IPAs and blue cheese.

Just digging into the sushi now.

[LeafUF]

Heading out to dinner at scarpetta now. They have a great wine list. Ill see what beers they offer. Then on to a long night of partying.

[northgagator]

Heading out to dinner at scarpetta now. They have a great wine list. Ill see what beers they offer. Then on to a long night of partying.

Nice place for dinner. Try the Peroni and the Pilsner Urquell. Both are mild in taste and light on the stomach, thus they accent instead of compete with the food.

[northgagator]

I Got a bomber of Avery Maharaja Imperial IPA and a half pound of Blue Valdeon, a Spanish blue cheese made from cow and goat milk. They went great together. Love IPAs and blue cheese.

Just digging into the sushi now.

Nothing better than having beer or wine with cheese (even fruit). Years ago I used to to Mr Dunderbak's in Jax. I used to sit at the bar and order a German Beer and a sandwich. I lived the smell and taste of the many cheeses. I also liked to stare at the cleavage if the female servers.

I am not drinking any imports at home right now. Recently my wife picked up a 24 variety pack of Sam Adam's. Last night I had an Irish Red and I am happy that there are three moe of those in the fridge (win't be after today).

[LeafUF]

Having a peroni at san Gennaro feast

[gator3229]

i don't drink!

[ThomasGoldkamp]

I don't know if I can post this here, but just poured myself a glass of Dewar's 12 scotch. Good stuff.

[mexicanconnection2002]

[QUOTE=StrangeGator;5748473]Got a bomber of Avery Maharaja Imperial IPA QUOTE]

Will be kegging a IIPA that I brewed that should be very similair to Maharaja (based off a clone recipe...slight adjustment to hops). Can't wait to give that one a taste. But for now, just drinking a home brewed pale ale.

[StrangeGator]

Drinking no beer tonight, but starting tomorrow…

It's Chicago Craft Beer Week.

http://chibeerweek.com/

Maybe this deserves its own thread.

[LeafUF]

Started my afternoon with a grolsch and now drinking a helles at zum schneider in the east village.

[StrangeGator]

Whole Foods was out of DFH 90 for over a week. Went in last night on my way home from the dojo and grabbed a four-pack, then looked at the price posted above… WTF? $15.99 for a four-pack! Put it back and grabbed a four-pack of Founders Double Trouble. It's just as good, thought I miss the thickness of DFH 90. Double Trouble is very light in color and a little light bodied.

Getting out to the Kinderhook Tap for dinner tonight. It's a local restaurant and beer snob hangout and Oak Park's headquarters for Craft Beer Week.

My little brother is flying in from Panama City tomorrow. Might take him to the Map Room.

http://maproom.com/

[StrangeGator]

This is kind of cool. You can pick your venue based on the beer you want to taste.

http://chibeerweek.com/neighborhoodbeers/

PILSEN, HYDE PARK, BRIDGEPORT
Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar Lagunitas Little Sumpin Sumpin
Simone's Allagash White
Skylark Alpha King
return to top

ANDERSONVILLE, EDGEWATER, UPTOWN
Acre Metropolitan Krankshaft
Bowmans Tavern @ Grill Bell's Oberon
Crew bar + grill Great Lakes Holy Moses or Wright Pils
Fireside Restaurant and Lounge Two Brother's
Francesca’s Bryn Mawr Goose Island’s “Matilda”
Hamburger Mary's Brew Pub Mary's Home Brews
Jurys Lagunitas A Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ Ale
Mayne Stage / Act One Pub Founders
Premise Greenbush "Anger"
The Bar on Buena Six Point Sweet Action
The Grafton Pub Revolution Anti Hero IPA
the Norse bar Avery Brewing

LINCOLN SQUARE, LAKEVIEW, WRIGLEYVILLE, ROSCOE
A.J. Hudson's Public House Ommegang Witte
Black Rock Pub & Kitchen Great Lakes Holy Moses
Blokes & Birds Greene King Abbot Ale
City Provisions Cleetus\' Collaboration
Cooper's Scape Goat Pale Ale
DMK Burger Bar ska modus hoperandi
Fish Bar Sweet Action Cream Ale
Fizz Bar & Grill Two Brothers Bitter End
Fountainhead Half Acre Gossamer & Metro Iron Works
Four Moon Tavern Half Acre Daisy Cutter
Goose Island Wrigleyville Brewpub Cubby Blue Blueberry Ale
Guthries Tavern Arcadia Sky High Rye
Hungry Brain 5 Rabbit
Michael Diversey`s Ommegang Hennepin & Other Fine American Craft Beers
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro Metropolitan Flywheel Bright Lager
Mulligans Public House Half Acre Over Ale
Murphy's Bleachers Metropolitan Flywheel Bright Lager
Nisei Lounge Left Hand Milk Stout
Northdown 3 Floyds Zombie Dust
Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread, and Wine Sixpoint Bengali Tiger
Red Ivy & Red Ivy Sports Club Great Lakes Beer
Riverview Tavern Lagunitas Pils
Rockit Burger Bar Great Lakes Brewing Co. Nosferatu
Sheffield's Beer and Wine Garden Two Brothers
Stanley's Kitchen & Tap Vander Mill Cider
The Bad Apple Chicagoland Crafted Beer
The Green Lady Changes Daily
The Long Room Allagash White
Uncommon Ground on Clark Metropolitan Krankshaft Kölsch Style
Underbar rotating craft drafts
Vaughan's Pub - Lakeview Lagunitas IPA
Village Tap Wild Onion Hefty Weiss
Waterhouse Goose Island Green Line
Witts Hinterland Pub Ale

BUCKTOWN, WICKER PARK
Bangers & Lace Tap #9
Bar Bar Black Sheep Victory Golden Monkey
Blue Line Lounge and Grill Avery Ellie's Brown
Bucktown Pub Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold
Cans Bar & Canteen Finch's Threadless IPA
Division Ale House Lagunitas IPA
Easy Bar Six Point Sweet Action + The Crisp + Bengali Tiger
Estelle's Cafe & Lounge Six Point Crisp Lager
Feast Bear Republic Racer 5 ipa
Feast Restaurant + Bar Bucktown Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA
Floyd's Pub Lagunitas IPA
Francesca’s Forno Revolution “Bottom up Wit”
Frontier Metropolitan Flywheel
Hot Chocolate Will Change Daily
Jack & Ginger's Milwaukee Brewing Co
Jerry's Sandwiches Big Sky Moose Drool
Lemming's Rotating (Ask Bartender)
Map Room Southern Tier Phin and Matt's
Moonshine Brewing Company All Moonshine Brews
Northside Bar & Grill Metropolitan's Arch Welder
Piece Pizzeria & Brewery Worryin Ale
quenchers saloon Lakefront Brewing
SmallBar Division 3Floyds GumballHead
The Boundary Point Nude Beach
The Bristol Victory Prima Pils
The Southern Southern Star Blonde Bombshell

LOOP, GOLD COAST, STREETERVILLE, RIVER NORTH
Blue Frog's Local 22 Two Brothers Dog Days
Bootleggers Goose Island 312
Bull & Bear Sofie
Butch McGuire's Lagunitas IPA
CHILL bar and grill Sweetgrass APA
Clark Street Ale House Ommegang Witte
Farmhouse Tavern Metropolitan Flywheel Bright Lager
Flo and Santos lagunitas little sumpin sumpin
Flo and Santos Hinterland Saison
Franklin Tap Eliot Ness
Kinzie Chophouse Leinenkugel\'s Sunset Wheat
Krolls South Loop Goose Island Green Line
Lockwood Restaurant Goose Island Matilda
Lodge Tavern Two Brothers: Cane & Ebel
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Gold Coast Two Brothers Domaine Dupage, Metropolitan Dynamo, Goose Island Green Line Pale Ale
Miller's Pub Restaurant Half Acre Daisy Cutter
Monk's Pub Ommegang Witte
Mother's Too Stone IPA
Nick's Fishmarket Bar & Grill Two Brother's Prairie Path Ale
Old Town Social Three Floyds Pride and Joy
One North Kitchen & Bar All Local Beers: Goose Island*, Metropolitan, Half Acre*, Finches *Subject to availability some exclusions may apply
Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread, and Wine Sixpoint Righteous Ale
Pippins Argus Pegasus IPA
Potter's Lounge Goose Island Matilda
Public House Arrogant Bastard
Rockit Bar & Grill Finch's Cut Throat Pale Ale
Sable Kitchen & Bar Stone IPA
She-nannigans House of Beer Shock top Summer Shandy
State and Lake Chicago Tavern 5 Rabbit, Golden Ale
Steeeter's Tavern Bells Best Brown
Stocks & Blondes Bar & Grille Stone IPA
The Gage Two Brothers Resistance IPA
The Hunt Club Bell's Oberon
Timothy O'Toole's Pub New Holland Dragons Milk
Watershed Metropolitan

WEST LOOP
Au Cheval Diner Dark Horse Amber
Francesca’s on Taylor Goose Island's "En Passant"
Haymarket Pub & Brewery Greenbush Collarboration Beers : Rubber Monkey Belgian Wheat IPA & Sock Chicken American Wheat IPA
Jaks Tap Bell Hop Slam
Jefferson Tap and Grille Lagunitas IPA Pints and Hinterland Winter Bottles
Mahoney's Pub & Grille Two Brothers: Cane & Ebel
Market New Belgium Lips of Faith: Fresh Hop IPA
N9NE Steakhouse Goose Island 312
Nellcote Timmerman's Strawberry
Paramount Room Tyranena Bitter Woman !PA
Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread, and Wine Sixpoint Bengali Tiger
Primebar Uinta Baba Black Lager
Publican Quality Meats 3 Floydds Select Draft
The Publican Victory Prima Pils

LOGAN SQUARE, HUMBOLT PARK
Ciao Napoli Pizzeria Half Acre Daisy Cutter
Green Eye Lounge Rotating American
Owen & Engine Two Brothers Dog Days Dortmunder
Revolution Brewing Cross of Gold
Rocking Horse Rotating Daily Due to Featured Breweries
Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar Brooklyn Brew Master Reserve
Scofflaw Two Brothers Outlaw IPA
Small Bar Logan Sqaure Six Point Bengali Tiger
The Logan Theatre Metropolitan - Krankshaft
The Owl Sixpoint Bengali Tiger

LINCOLN PARK, OLD TOWN
Ada Street Racer 5
aliveOne Six Point Bengali Tiger
Burger Bar Chicago Goose Island Nut Brown
Goose Island Clybourn Brewpub Blonde Ale
Lincoln Station Summit Summer Ale
Local Option Rotating Featured Beer
McGees Tavern & Grille Against The Grain Brewery
Old Town Pour House Victory Brewing Co. Golden Monkey
Paddy Long's Beer and Bacon Pub Ommegang Witte
Stanley's Kitchen & Tap Vander Mill Cider
The Galway Arms Curious Traveller
The River Shannon Goose Island Green Line

WEST TOWN, UKRAINIAN VILLAGE
Archie's Iowa Rockwell Tavern Half Acre Gossamer cans
Cleos Bar & Grill Milwaukee Brewing Co
Frontier Metropolitan Flywheel
High Dive Rotating Daily Due to Featured Breweries
Leopold Two Brothers Dog Days Dortmunder
Roots Handmade Pizza Roots House Brew
The Beetle Bar & Grill Modus Hoperandi
The Blind Robin Rotating American Craft Brew
The Old Oak Tap Rotating $4 Beer Special
Tuman's Tap & Grill Avery IPA

GREATER SUBURBS
Bigby's Pour House Two Brothers Bigby's Rye.P.A.
Brixie's Beer Bar and Grill Revolution Anti Hero
Chucks Southern Comforts Cafe/Voodoo Lounge Abita Turbo Dog/Abita Amber
Cigars and Stripes BBQ Big Foot Barley
DMK Burger Bar Lombard Lagunitas Lucky 13
Fatduck Tavern & Grill Great Lake Commodore Perry
Firkin Two Brother's Outlaw I.P.A. and New Belgium Shift
Fischman Liquors and Tavern Port Brewing Company Mongo Double IPA
Flossmoor Station Restaurant and Brewery Half Day Hefeweizen
Francesca’s Fiore Left Hand “Milk Stout”
Gammon Coach House All taps will be avaiible for $4
Geneva Ale House SKA Modus Hoperandi
Glenview House Flossmoor Station Pullman Brown Ale
Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant - Bolingbrook Rotating
Heaven on Seven Two Brothers Domaine DuPage
Hollywood Stadium All Craft Beers
Maple Tree Inn Tyranena Dirty Old Man
Mickey Finns Brewery Lap Dog Robust Porter
Palmer Place Restaurant & Bier Garten 2 Brothers Outlaw IPA Cans
Peggy Kinnane's Hinterland Luna Stout
PL8 Restaurant Lagunitas Beer Flight
Prairie Moon Founders Pale Ale
Rabbit's Great Lakes Eliot Ness
Ram Restaurant and Brewery Rosemont $2.99 Rotating Beer of Day
Ram Restaurant and Brewery Schaumburg $2.99 Rotating Beer of the Day
Ram Restaurant and Brewery Wheeling $2.99 Rotating Beer of the Day
Rock Bottom Lombard Stumblebum Unicorn Belgian Dubbel
Rock Bottom Warrenville Rock Bottom Maibock
Ryan's Public House New Belgium Shift
Standard Market Lagunitas Dog Town Pale
Tap House Grill 3Floyds Sand Pebble
Tap House Grill Oswego Mikkeller / Three Floyds Boogoop
Tap House Grill St. Charles Lefthand Smoke Jumper
Tap House Grill Westmont New Holland Blue Sunday
The Bank Restaurant & Bar King Pin Red Ale
The Bavarian Lodge Smuttynose IPA
The Garage Bar & Sandwiches DogFish Head 60 Draft
Tribes Alehouse Three Floyds Alpha King
Wild Monk Goose Island Greenline & Two Brother's Cane & Ebel

[anstro76]

in mid. pa trying some regional fare. nothing mind blowing so far

Sent from my mind using esp

[StrangeGator]

in mid. pa trying some regional fare. nothing mind blowing so far

Sent from my mind using esp

You're in one of the best craft regions in the US. Check it out…

http://beeradvocate.com/lists/top-mid-atlantic

[gator884]

Just got done hosting a dipa tasting with RR Pliny the Elder, FFF Arctic Panzer Wolf and Gainesville's own Swamphead 10-10-10. Great evening!

[StrangeGator]

Just got done hosting a dipa tasting with RR Pliny the Elder, FFF Arctic Panzer Wolf and Gainesville's own Swamphead 10-10-10. Great evening!

Pliny the Elder is supposed to be one of the best beers in the world (though not as good as Pliny the Younger). I've never been able to get my hands on either. I've had Arctic Panzer Wolf a few times. It's awesome, but pretty expensive.

[gator884]

Pliny is hands down the best beer I've ever had. Both the Pliny and Panzer along with about 20 other Russian River and 3 Floyd's brews were acquired in trades for mostly Cigar City brews I had acquired.

[sgtfury]

Budweiser 12 oz cans

[LeafUF]

Off to the great googamooga in a few minutes in prospect park. There are going to be about 35 craft breweries there as well as tons of food vendors.

[brolowe]

Brunch among the Raleigh High Rises,,,,,soon to begin with a Purple Haze and think good times for a shrot while. Lookin for the future!

[gandergator]

Rootbeer!!

[gator7_5]

Bells special double cream stout

[StrangeGator]

Bout to ride my bike to Ukranian Village/Wicker Park/Bucktown in the city to hit a few of the pubs with Craft Beer Weeks specials. Got Small Bar and the Map Room on my list. Going to play it by ear after that. Have to travel four or five miles through the hood on my way there. That's always an adventure.

[gator7_5]

^ Not for a ninja!

just kidding Strange..

[StrangeGator]

^ Not for a ninja!

just kidding Strange..

Except ninjas are invisible and I'm a white guy riding a bike through a primarily black neighborhood, then a primarily Latino neighborhood. I was anything but invisible. No problems though. These are actually very cool old neighborhoods, with lots of Bbq joints and taquerias. As far as I know, the locals only shoot each other.

[StrangeGator]

Made it to Small Bar in just over 30 minutes and grabbed the last table on the sidewalk. It was almost 90 out. SB has two locations, and both are among the hottest newer craft beer venues in the city, with 20 taps and a very smart selection of about 70 bottled beers. I started with a pint of their house APA, contract brewed by Two Brothers in DuPage Country (far west Chi burbs). Finished that and two pints of ice water, then ordered a pecan sticky bun and a 13oz glass of Darkhouse Sapient Trip Ale. Very nice pairing suggestion from my waitress. She had lost her voice the night before, so she had to point to it on the menu. Really cute nerdy/hipster chick.

Got back on my bike and rode north on Hoyne Ave. through the historic part of Wicker Park and lower Bucktown, past block after block of gray stone mansions. Map Room is about a mile due north of Small Bar at Hoyne and Armitage. It's Chicago's oldest and most respected craft beer joints with 27 taps and almost 300 selections in the bottle. Cubs/Sox, Pacers/Heat games were on, but I was lucky enough to get the last bar stool. Had a pint of Three Floyds Zombie Dust and two more pints of ice water. Thought about ordering a Three Floyds Blackheart English IPA, but there was a serious headwind kicking up and my return trip was about six miles.

Got back to Oak Park just in time to shower and drive out to the Intercontinental Hotel at O'Hare to meet my brother for drinks. He had two martinis and I had a pint of Goose Island's Green Line APA, the only real craft beer offering. It was awful. Took me an hour to finish it. Picked up a bomber of Avery's Maharaja on the way home to get the taste out of my mouth. Drank that with a spicy Chinese dinner and went straight to bed. Slept like a baby. A drunk baby.

Craft Beer Week lasts until next Sunday. Doubt I will.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Last night I had a couple Cigar City Tocobago Red ales followed by a home brewed Belgian Dubbel. Tonight I have to bottle up 96 bottles of home brew for wedding favors before I run out of beer in my kegs. Thank God for the Blichmann beer gun!

[LeafUF]

Had some racer 5 yesterday as well as the peak summer session and something called liquid gold. The liquid gold was my favorite of the three.

The food though totally stole the show yesterday as some of new yorks best restaurants came out.

[StrangeGator]

Had some racer 5 yesterday as well as the peak summer session and something called liquid gold. The liquid gold was my favorite of the three.

The food though totally stole the show yesterday as some of new yorks best restaurants came out.

Thought you disliked DIPAs. I guess it's one of the milder doubles.

[LeafUF]

Thought you disliked DIPAs. I guess it's one of the milder doubles.

I get overwhelmed by them but I can handle one. Truth is I didn't know what it was when my friend ordered it.

Maybe if I keep trying ill get accustomed to it.

[StrangeGator]

I get overwhelmed by them but I can handle one. Truth is I didn't know what it was when my friend ordered it.

Maybe if I keep trying ill get accustomed to it.

Hop varieties can be very different in terms of how the bitterness tastes. Some have a distinct citrus flavor while others are very herbal. Some hops are more for aroma than flavor. Most IPA and DIPAs used two or more hop varieties, though Three Floyds is making some interesting IPAs using a single hop strain, like with the Zombie Dust. I think that's the best single IPA I've ever tasted.

[StrangeGator]

Am I carrying this thread on my own? Sheez?

We're doing some serious late spring cleaning in anticipation of family coming in for my twins' graduation. Needed some extra ABV since my downstairs neighbor (we're in a two-flat) is going psycho on us, though mostly when it's just me and her and my wife isn't around to get all New York on her. This lady, I mean middle aged female person, is creeping me out, accusing us, or just me of bizarre stuff.

Anyway, I saw some interesting choices in 22oz or 750ml bottles, but I was needing some octane tonight, so I got a six pack of Lagunitas Maximus, 72 IBU (respectable) 8.2% ABV (better than respectable.) Probably won't drink the entire thing. But I just uncapped the third one and I'm getting in a pretty good space. They haven't had this in my Whole Foods for several months. Forget how good it tasted. It's not a hop monster, but whatever they put in there hold's up well to the alcohol level. If ever there was a beer that helped you take no shit from psychotic middle aged single mothers, Maximus might be the one. Might have to save one for breakfast when I have to go down to the laundry room.

[toon66]

Am I carrying this thread on my own? Sheez?

We're doing some serious late spring cleaning in anticipation of family coming in for my twins' graduation. Needed some extra ABV since my downstairs neighbor (we're in a two-flat) is going psycho on us, though mostly when it's just me and her and my wife isn't around to get all New York on her. This lady, I mean middle aged female person, is creeping me out, accusing us, or just me of bizarre stuff.

Anyway, I saw some interesting choices in 22oz or 750ml bottles, but I was needing some octane tonight, so I got a six pack of Lagunitas Maximus, 72 IBU (respectable) 8.2% ABV (better than respectable.) Probably won't drink the entire thing. But I just uncapped the third one and I'm getting in a pretty good space. They haven't had this in my Whole Foods for several months. Forget how good it tasted. It's not a hop monster, but whatever they put in there hold's up well to the alcohol level. If ever there was a beer that helped you take no shit from psychotic middle aged single mothers, Maximus might be the one. Might have to save one for breakfast when I have to go down to the laundry room.

Over served last night. Sierra Nevada Pale Ales, Pappy Van Winkle 20yr old whiskey and Fuentes Hemingways. Taking the night off.

[StrangeGator]

Over served last night. Sierra Nevada Pale Ales, Pappy Van Winkle 20yr old whiskey and Fuentes Hemingways. Taking the night off.

Won't even try to compete with that.

Unless I'm out of town and shopping someplace that doesn't have a good craft beer selection, I totally forget how good Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is. Every time I drink it, it's like having it for the first time. You take it for granted because you can find it everywhere.

[toon66]

Won't even try to compete with that.

Unless I'm out of town and shopping someplace that doesn't have a good craft beer selection, I totally forget how good Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is. Every time I drink it, it's like having it for the first time. You take it for granted because you can find it everywhere.

I won't even compete with that. 4 days of meetings reviewing the first half of the year and strategizing for the next two does that to me sometimes. If I said I felt great yesterday, I'd be a liar.

Agreed, Sierra is a good solid beer that accomplishes everything.

[StrangeGator]

Somebody made a mistake. I never buy beer at the grocery chain where I buy most of our food, Jewel. They just suck. But for whatever reason, they thought they would try to capture the local craft beer drinkers with an impressive display of offerings from some of the best brewers in the region and beyond. I think they didn't pay much attention to price points. Found a six pack of Double Dog Pale Ale for $9.99. It's $14.99 at Whole Foods and Binny's. It's also 11.2 ABV. Not my favorite beer, but it's a good buzz at any price. It's a better buzz when it's this cheap.

They also had Bitter Lenny's RIPA, an excellent rye flavored double IPA for $9.99 for a four pack. Will be back for that later in the week.

[toon66]

Miller High Life draft in a frozen mug over a plate of smoked mullet here at Ted Peter's Smoke House.

[kbell42]

Mickey's hand grenade

[StrangeGator]

Miller High Life draft in a frozen mug over a plate of smoked mullet here at Ted Peter's Smoke House.

Life's simple pleasures.

Heading over to Pritzker Pavilion to hear Kelly Hogan this evening. It's a free show and it's pretty easy to sneak beer or wine in, or you can go buy it at the Millenium Park Cafe. I usually stick three or four bottles in my brief case. That might look kind of suspicious on Memorial Day.

[ThomasGoldkamp]

Ice-cold Coors in Hollywood, Florida. Be down in Islamorada tomorrow.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Finishing a bomber of Dogfish head Theobroma. Probably the lightest chocolate based beer I've ever had, since most choco beers are stouts. Worth trying.

Also picked up a Dogfish Pearl Jam Twenty ( a celebration of Peal Jams album Ten) and an Ommegang Art of Darkness.

Ommegang is fast becoming one of my favorite breweries, try them out if you get a chance.

[LeafUF]

Finally doing the smart thing and making a list of beers to try from this thread.

[chrisleakfan4life]

Gonna get some dos equis lager after work

Sent from my iPhone using GatorCountry

[etennant]

Just got back from Phoenix and stopped At Four Peaks Brewery. Had some Kiltlifter (nice Scottish Ale), Sunbru (German kolsch style) and their Hefweizen that isn't available outside the brewery yet.

Pair that Kiltlifter with some Carne Adovada and you're in heaven after a day of hiking up Camelback and kayaking the Salt River.

[northgagator]

Miller High Life draft in a frozen mug over a plate of smoked mullet here at Ted Peter's Smoke House.

Smoked mullet. Isn't it funny how a trash fish can be turned into a delicacies. My first experience with this fine dish was in the late 1980's at a Fernandina Shrimp Festival. I agree with Strange on this being one of life's simple pleasures.

[northgagator]

Life's simple pleasures.

Heading over to Pritzker Pavilion to hear Kelly Hogan this evening. It's a free show and it's pretty easy to sneak beer or wine in, or you can go buy it at the Millenium Park Cafe. I usually stick three or four bottles in my brief case. That might look kind of suspicious on Memorial Day.

You would of looked more than suspicious if you had stuck a couple of bottles in your briefs.

[toon66]

Smoked mullet. Isn't it funny how a trash fish can be turned into a delicacies. My first experience with this fine dish was in the late 1980's at a Fernandina Shrimp Festival. I agree with Strange on this being one of life's simple pleasures.

Sure is though I grew up on mullet, however, perspective. Did you know that lobster was considered trash until the creation of lobster Thermidor? Grouper was also considered junk until snapper became scarce and rose in price and grouper was a cheaper alternative. Tilapia and basa are junk fish and that will never change no matter how many 2nd rate restaurants tell you otherwise. Salt-water catfish is junk but freshwater catfish isn't.

Smoked mullet and an ice cold sud is a great Memorial Day combo in book.

[gatordavisl]

Taiwan beer. It's usually warm, tastes like Old Milwaukee, but it's often all they got in restaurants over here.

[mvt_gator]

Leffe Blonde - one of the best lighter colored beers I have had in a while.

I picked it up mainly because it was part of a Belgian 18 pack at Costco with a couple other beers I liked

[channingcrowderhungry]

Sierra Nevada SummerFest. Nice Crisp Lager, nothing to write home about.

[toon66]

Taiwan beer. It's usually warm, tastes like Old Milwaukee, but it's often all they got in restaurants over here.

One of the worst beers I've ever had. Tastes almost metallic.

[StrangeGator]

Sierra Nevada SummerFest. Nice Crisp Lager, nothing to write home about.

Lagers rarely are. Craft brewers are trying more and more to make special beers out of them, but it's kind of like putting a Rolls Royce grill on a Beetle. It's still a Beetle. Why not put the same amount of effort into making a really refreshing pale or blonde ale?

[gatordavisl]

Beer School 101 with Strange. Strange, I find that you think a lot like I do. Adding you to the list of GC posters I'd be glad to have a beer with one day (along with Hall, Tommy, Hoops, and a couple others). Ales on me!

[StrangeGator]

Beer School 101 with Strange. Strange, I find that you think a lot like I do. Adding you to the list of GC posters I'd be glad to have a beer with one day (along with Hall, Tommy, Hoops, and a couple others). Ales on me!

I'm all over it. Where do I have to drive to do that?

[DesertGator]

Decided to go back to the old standby tonight ... A loaf of bread in every bottle :laugh:

http://www.guinness.com/en-ie/img/promo-alt.jpg

[gatordavisl]

I'm all over it. Where do I have to drive to do that? Right now I'm in Taiwan. Back to Hogtown on June 5. Moving to Minnesota in July. If you live in G'ville, give me a shout between June 5 - July 10. Would be fun.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Lagers rarely are. Craft brewers are trying more and more to make special beers out of them, but it's kind of like putting a Rolls Royce grill on a Beetle. It's still a Beetle. Why not put the same amount of effort into making a really refreshing pale or blonde ale?

Yeah. I can't really think of too many memorable lagers.

Tonight I had a bells double chocolate stout amongst others. One incredible beer. Nice and smooth.

[gatordavisl]

Double chocolate stout . . . sounds very special. A recent fave has been Boddington's. Good bit of flavor, but not too complex.

[StrangeGator]

Right now I'm in Taiwan. Back to Hogtown on June 5. Moving to Minnesota in July. If you live in G'ville, give me a shout between June 5 - July 10. Would be fun.

I live in Chicago. I'm here all summer except for one week in July when we go to the beach in south Walton County, and my daughter's college orientation in Boston.

Hope you enjoy Minnesota. There's a good Gator club in Minneapolis. Surly is a terrific craft brewery. I love that city. Tried to get my daughter to look at schools up there. Couldn't get her past Madison.

[gatordavisl]

Ahhh Chitown. Love it. In fact, my wife and I will be there June 30 for a wedding, but it's a quick trip. I have three cousins in and around Chicago, so I will keep you and those ales in mind in the future!

[thedyc09]

Took out a 6-er of Rogue's Dead Guy Ale about a month ago (night before my wedding). Since then, it's been Red Stripe, one tallboy at a time.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Bomber of Cigar City IMPROV (Oatmeal Rye India-style Brown Ale) last night while finishing bottling the last 48 of 96 bottles of home brew for wedding favors for my wedding next week.

[Swamper]

just picked up a 6 of Iron City to have with some shrimp tonight.

http://www.pittsburghbrewing.com/images/beers/icb_full.png

[fbgator27]

Heading to the Magic City Brewfest this weekend. Got a VIP area this year, looking forward to some of the barrel aged and small production brews. They typically have most of your run of the mill crafts but you can always turn up a few new ones each year. Not sure if I know how post a link but heres a list of what they have. If anyone has sees some "must haves" let me know and I'll be sure to try. http://www.magiccitybrewfest.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MCBF-2012-MAP-Back-Page-FINAL.pdf

[StrangeGator]

Had to limp out of the dojo with an hour of class left. Picked up a four-pack of DFH 90. Halfway through my first one. Don't think I have to describe the taste on this board.

They got the price back down to $10.99. Must have been miss-marked last week when I saw it at $14.99.

Had a couple of Hebrew Bitter Lenny's RIPA last night. Will probably have one of those after two of the DFH 90s and report on it then.

[ThomasGoldkamp]

Eel River Porter tonight. Pretty solid.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Just closed up the new beer store for the first night with a cigar city bolita. Double brown was one of the best beers I've ever had.

[northgagator]

Just closed up the new beer store for the first night with a cigar city bolita. Double brown was one of the best beers I've ever had.

How was the first day of business?
Did any GatorPub fans drop in?

[StrangeGator]

Didn't know you were open already Channing. Very excited to hear about it. Got a handful of facebook contacts living in Jax. I should send them in. What's the name of your store?

[toon66]

Rogue Hazelnut Brown Nector

[orangeblue]

Found this really cool "beer house" in Isle of Palms, SC that is an actual real house that has bottles of beer for sale in each room. They have everything. I bought Banana Nut Bread beer, it wasn't bad, also bought the double alcohol version of Orange Blossom Pilsner. I love original OBP but since moving to SC, can't find it anywhere. Love Breckenridge Vanilla Porter too

[toon66]

Palm Belgian at the Rays game.

[phatGator]

Palm Belgian at the Rays game.

Palm is sold in the USA now? That was my standard beer when I lived in Belgium.

[toon66]

Sure, for a while now. They serve it at the bingo dome where the Rays play.

[LeafUF]

Had a new Belgium somersault this afternoon. Its their summer seasonal and though its an enjoyable beer there just isn't a lot to it. Decent enough for hot days like today.

[channingcrowderhungry]

How was the first day of business?
Did any GatorPub fans drop in?

It went really well. We were slammed all day yesterday, and been pretty steady today. If any gatorpub fans did come by they didn't introduce themselves. Maybe they didn't want 10% off or maybe they are shy :)

[channingcrowderhungry]

Didn't know you were open already Channing. Very excited to hear about it. Got a handful of facebook contacts living in Jax. I should send them in. What's the name of your store?

Thanks strange. His thread is now going to be taken over by me now that I have a beer store. Total domination :)

The store is named "Beer:30 A craft beer emporium." we are on Facebook at beer30jax. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

[northgagator]

It went really well. We were slammed all day yesterday, and been pretty steady today. If any gatorpub fans did come by they didn't introduce themselves. Maybe they didn't want 10% off or maybe they are shy :)

Here is a marketing suggestion. Send someone out to the Riverside Arts Market (under the west side of the Fuller Warren Bridge) and hand out flyers. I am sure that will generate Some business into your store. That market is just a ten minute ride to your store. Also, when at the market stop at the booth that sells the crab cakes. My cousin and her husband own the booth.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Here is a marketing suggestion. Send someone out to the Riverside Arts Market (under the west side of the Fuller Warren Bridge) and hand out flyers. I am sure that will generate Some business into your store. That market is just a ten minute ride to your store. Also, when at the market stop at the booth that sells the crab cakes. My cousin and her husband own the booth.

Thanks for the idea. I frequent the RAM often. I'll check out the crab cakes too. I am wondering how to start a conversation by saying I know your cousin from a Internet message board :)

Ended the night drinking Stone's Cali-Belgie IPA, a Belgian ipa. Interesting having an ipa made with Belgian yeast. Can't say I'm crazy about it, but it's good and worth trying.

[StrangeGator]

Drinking a Hop Slayer Double IPA from Onion Brewery in Illinois. It was about $9.00 for a four pack of 12oz cans. Nothing to recommend, but I guess it's good for the price. A little wimpy on the bitterness end, but it's 8% abv. It's more like a strong APA. Not really hoppy enough to consider it a double IPA.

[orangeblueorangeblue]

Bottled my IPA two weeks ago, tasted the first one last night. Best beer I've ever had. Finished it off with my home brewed stout.

Really, once you start home brewing it's hard to even drink good microbrews anymore. Plus at ~ $.35 a beer ...

[StrangeGator]

Bottled my IPA two weeks ago, tasted the first one last night. Best beer I've ever had. Finished it off with my home brewed stout.

Really, once you start home brewing it's hard to even drink good microbrews anymore. Plus at ~ $.35 a beer ...

What is it modeled after? If it's completely original, what would it compare to in the craft IPA world?

[orangeblueorangeblue]

It's not from a kit, so it's original. Well hopped, closest I can think of is a sweeter Dale's Pale Ale.

[phatGator]

Ended the night drinking Stone's Cali-Belgie IPA, a Belgian ipa. Interesting having an ipa made with Belgian yeast. Can't say I'm crazy about it, but it's good and worth trying.

Having lived in the Flemish part of Belgium for two years, I was pleased you used the Dutch name for the country, Belgie, rather than the French name, Belgique. Most Americans only think of French when referring to Belgium. :-)

[phatGator]

Bottled my IPA two weeks ago, tasted the first one last night. Best beer I've ever had. Finished it off with my home brewed stout.

Really, once you start home brewing it's hard to even drink good microbrews anymore. Plus at ~ $.35 a beer ...

In my first job out of UF there were a number of chemical engineers there that were into home brewing. They made some good ones.

[gator884]

Had a Russian River Blind Pig and Stone IPA tonight. Both were very tasty brews from Cali!

[gatormoe1]

Mountain Dew

[channingcrowderhungry]

Having lived in the Flemish part of Belgium for two years, I was pleased you used the Dutch name for the country, Belgie, rather than the French name, Belgique. Most Americans only think of French when referring to Belgium. :-)

It's funny you say that because it says on the bottle half the releases say Belgie and the other half Belgique, so as not to offend anyone. They covered their bases.

Just had a nice light Belgian White, Wittekerk. Real easy drinking. Heading home to crack open a flying dog gonzo imperial porter.

[mexicanconnection2002]

Yesterday was Victory Helios followed by a few of my home brewed pale ales hopped with all Chinook hops.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Blue Moon Vintage Blonde Ale limited release. It's made with Chardonnay grapes and drinks like a wine. Wives will love this beer if you can find it.

Also drinking a Terrapin Hop Karma Brown IPA. Not too shabby, but nothing amazing.

[StrangeGator]

Blue Moon Vintage Blonde Ale limited release. It's made with Chardonnay grapes and drinks like a wine. Wives will love this beer if you can find it.

Also drinking a Terrapin Hop Karma Brown IPA. Not too shabby, but nothing amazing.

It would take a significant amount of Chardonnay grapes to get the skunk out of Blue Moon. Love a great Blonde, but not so much a "faux blond" from the brewers that gave us the "Silver Bullet."

[channingcrowderhungry]

It would take a significant amount of Chardonnay grapes to get the skunk out of Blue Moon. Love a great Blonde, but not so much a "faux blond" from the brewers that gave us the "Silver Bullet."

They got blue moon big enough for miller/coors to buy out.... Guess there is something to be said for that. Doubt i'd be ever drink it again, but the rep gave me a free bottle and my girlfriend loved it.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Sam Adams verloren, a gose style wheat beer made with salt and coriander. Interesting, but not great.

[LeafUF]

Just cracked open a Firestone Walker Solace. Another summer seasonal, unfiltered wheat.

With the temps sitting right at or above 100 lately I have just been craving these light easy drinking beers. And since it wont drop below 90 here until near midnight I figure it will soften the blow by starting early.

[deep_threat]

Might not be beer, but I just drank a Mikes hard lemonade. Pretty good. I like the black cherry flavor too!

[channingcrowderhungry]

Just cracked open a Firestone Walker Solace. Another summer seasonal, unfiltered wheat.

With the temps sitting right at or above 100 lately I have just been craving these light easy drinking beers. And since it wont drop below 90 here until near midnight I figure it will soften the blow by starting early.

Wish we got Firestone here. Just drank an Orval. Nice dry hopped Belgian.

[northgagator]

Leaf, a few years ago I was in Milwaukee and I had several drafts (20 plus oz's) of a unfiltered wheat beer. It was from a local Wisconsin micro brew and it was awesome!

[LeafUF]

Really like the unfiltered wheats. And Firestone walker has been a nice new discovery for me.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Left hand milk stout. Decent but nothing amazing.

[StrangeGator]

Had a Firestone Double Jack IPA earlier this evening celebrating my twins' high school graduation earlier in the afternoon, and their high schools' 4A state championship in baseball, while watching the last two innings of the Gator game. I think I'm ready for another beer.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Think I need to impose a moratorium on people posting about beers I can't get here in Florida. Making me jealous.

[StrangeGator]

Just picked up a bottle of Hop Juice from Two Brothers Brewery (Warrenville, IL). Haven't seen this in two or three years. They must have stopped brewing it for a while. They held a little music and arts festival out in Warrenville to celebrate the release. It's 9.9% ABV, 100 IBUs and much better than I remembered. Very pungent hop nose, pine-citrus hop flavor with a nice alcohol sweetness. This is a very big beer, perfect for a big occasion.

My son and daughter's graduation started at 3:00. I was out there in the stadium with my wife, dad, sister, brother in-law, sister in-law, niece, nephew for 90 minutes in the 90 degree heat, watching 877 kids walk across the stage and grab their diplomas. It was very cool for these kids to celebrate their graduation and their school's baseball championship. Very proud of my kids and all their friends. What an amazing four years. Just soaking it all in while I sip this very special beer.

[StrangeGator]

Think I need to impose a moratorium on people posting about beers I can't get here in Florida. Making me jealous.

Don't think there is a place in this country where you can all the great craft beers, though I guess Florida is geographically further removed from the best craft beer regions than just about anywhere else. Been hearing great stuff about Cigar City. I'm sure we won't be seeing that in the midwest for a while.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Yeah, Lots come to Georgia, but few come to Florida. We miss out on Russian River, 3 Floyds, Founders, Boulevard, New Belgium, Firestone, Green Flash (though I hear they are going to be here soon), Goose Island and a whole mess of others.

But you are right about Cigar City, we can hang our hat on them. They are putting out some great beers. They just released their Homefront IPA, aged on maple baseball bats. Wild.

[StrangeGator]

Yeah, Lots come to Georgia, but few come to Florida. We miss out on Russian River, 3 Floyds, Founders, Boulevard, New Belgium, Firestone, Green Flash (though I hear they are going to be here soon), Goose Island and a whole mess of others.

But you are right about Cigar City, we can hang our hat on them. They are putting out some great beers. They just released their Homefront IPA, aged on maple baseball bats. Wild.

No New Belgium! I thought they were on neighboring planets by now. Fat Tire is ubiquitous. I don't think we get Russian River in Chicago. Firestone is a very recent offering, as is Boulevard.

[JimBobTheClown]

Fruity, but wild blue kind of night

[StrangeGator]

Celebrating the acquisition of a possibly great new client with a Stone Cali-Belguique IPA. Of course, this could be one of very dodgy situations where I'll burn 100 hours and only get paid for ten, then watch the whole enterprise close up in the middle of the night. They promised not to get to the point where they're "throwing good money after bad." I'm wondering if they're planning on paying me the good money or the bad money.

So just in case, I've got another bomber of Hope Juice (9.9% alc abv) to drink while I contemplate the possible down side of this project.

The overall upside of today is that I didn't spend a single moment driving my kids to high school or exchanging emails with teachers or administrators.

HIGH SCHOOL IS OVER!

FOREVER!

[StrangeGator]

There's this strange emptiness not picking up the kids from school these last two days. All this new business stuff is exciting, but when something you've been doing for 16 years suddenly ends, there's a poignance that doesn't want to go away. Time for another beer. Just opened that bomber of Hop Juice. Very fragrant, nice alcohol kick. Let's see if this does the trick, or just gets me more depressed.

[RealDeal]

do they still sell pearl beer, from texas??

[channingcrowderhungry]

Celebrating the acquisition of a possibly great new client with a Stone Cali-Belguique IPA. Of course, this could be one of very dodgy situations where I'll burn 100 hours and only get paid for ten, then watch the whole enterprise close up in the middle of the night. They promised not to get to the point where they're "throwing good money after bad." I'm wondering if they're planning on paying me the good money or the bad money.

So just in case, I've got another bomber of Hope Juice (9.9% alc abv) to drink while I contemplate the possible down side of this project.

The overall upside of today is that I didn't spend a single moment driving my kids to high school or exchanging emails with teachers or administrators.

HIGH SCHOOL IS OVER!

FOREVER!

New Belgium is opening their new plant in asheville soon, and my guess is the florida market will follow soon. Fat Tire has such an amazing following for what I consider a slightly above average beer. I do like their Ranger IPA though. Had that Cali-Belgique a few pages back on this thread, what'd you think? A lot going on in that bottle

[LeafUF]

http://www.foodandwine.com/blogs/2012/6/14/best-canned-beer-for-summer

What say you beer drinkers? I look forward to more good beers in cans.

[StrangeGator]

do they still sell pearl beer, from texas??

I hope not, unless it's only sold in Texas.

[StrangeGator]

http://www.foodandwine.com/blogs/2012/6/14/best-canned-beer-for-summer

What say you beer drinkers? I look forward to more good beers in cans.

No issue with cans. I aways pour it into a glass, not matter what container it comes from. I make a big fuss when a bar serves me a bottle without a glass. Hell, kegs are metallic. Did anyone ever object to that?

[toon66]

Want more better beer in cans because cans are better on boats than glass bottles.

[NorthCaptivaGator]

Just popped a red stripe, ya mon

[romeg8r]

Yazoo hefeweizen

[toon66]

Just screamed across Tampa Bay in a 36 Yellowfin knocking back ice cold Presidentes. About to head on up to Orlando for Roger Waters tonight.

[channingcrowderhungry]

At green room brewery's one year anniversary in jax beach. Sipping a makers mark barrel aged imperial stout. No complaints from me!

[gatorinwc]

I have never had a beer and I am 54. I am high on life and I have no need for that embalming fluid.

[StrangeGator]

I have never had a beer and I am 54. I am high on life and I have no need for that embalming fluid.

Good for you. I'm 54 and until a moment ago, I was high on beer, but you just killed my buzz.

[phatGator]

I have never had a beer and I am 54. I am high on life and I have no need for that embalming fluid.

Good for you. But no one in this thread has celebrated drunkenness. Quite the contrary, people have celebrated quality, good flavor, and the craft of fine brewing.

Just curious, is your moniker short for "Gator in the British Restroom"? :-)

[phatGator]

Troegs HopBack Amber Ale. I think I like hops.

[northgagator]

Troegs HopBack Amber Ale. I think I like hops.

Speaking of Hops...,the other night. a buddy of mine was in Athens Ga at the Terrapin Brewery for a tasting. Said that for $10 you can get eight four ounce beers. He said he put all of his money into his favorite pale ale. This guy is also a home brewer and we had a good conversation about the use of hops. We got to wondering if hops could grow in the south. A quick Google showed that some areas in the South, especially North Georgia can produce some good hops.

[channingcrowderhungry]

I have never had a beer and I am 54. I am high on life and I have no need for that embalming fluid.

So why did u click on this thread? And what made you want to reply? Honest question.

[NorthCaptivaGator]

At green room brewery's one year anniversary in jax beach. Sipping a makers mark barrel aged imperial stout. No complaints from me!

Ooohh, that sounds good!

[StrangeGator]

Went to two more high school graduation parties yesterday. One was at the home of some close friends. Had a nice wine selection, but not much on the beer side. Had a Bell's Oberon and an Anchor Steam, then switched to lemonade. (It was going to be a long day.) Went to the next party, friend of my daughter's whose parents I barely knew. She had mentioned a few things about them, that they had very good taste in music and that the dad was a craft beer enthusiast. He had quite a variety, but I went straight for the Bell's Two Hearted Ale. Went great with the Mexican buffet.

Drank a lot of beer this weekend. Need to go easy this week. But damn it's hot here.

[toon66]

Went to two more high school graduation parties yesterday. One was at the home of some close friends. Had a nice wine selection, but not much on the beer side. Had a Bell's Oberon and an Anchor Steam, then switched to lemonade. (It was going to be a long day.) Went to the next party, friend of my daughter's whose parents I barely knew. She had mentioned a few things about them, that they had very good taste in music and that the dad was a craft beer enthusiast. He had quite a variety, but I went straight for the Bell's Two Hearted Ale. Went great with the Mexican buffet.

Drank a lot of beer this weekend. Need to go easy this week. But damn it's hot here.

Sounds like a pretty killer weekend to me. Don't much about Bell's Brewery. Sounds like I should start doing some research.

[StrangeGator]

Sounds like a pretty killer weekend to me. Don't much about Bell's Brewery. Sounds like I should start doing some research.

Two Hearted Ale is probably one of their most popular beers. Depending on your conditioning to hops, it's either a mild double or a strong single IPA. For me, it's the perfect daytime summer beer. It's never too hot for hoppy beer.

These are some of their other really good offerings…

Hopslam (DIPA)
Black Note Stout
Roundhouse (Red Ale)
Oberon (Wheat)

Hopslam is just off the charts, #6 on Beer Advocate's list of DIPAs, and top 20 overall. You can only get it a couple of months out of the year and it's very expensive, but you have to grab it when you see it. Don't know what kind of distribution they have down there, but an old buddy of mine in Tampa was crowing about getting his hands on a six pack some time in the last year or so. You live in Tampa, right?

[phatGator]

Speaking of Hops...We got to wondering if hops could grow in the south. A quick Google showed that some areas in the South, especially North Georgia can produce some good hops.

Years ago when I worked in California I knew a girl whose family had a hop farm in Montana. Their fortunes each year turned on whether the inspector from one of the big brewers, like A-B, approved the crop. If not, they got a much lower price as cattle feed.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Two Hearted Ale is probably one of their most popular beers. Depending on your conditioning to hops, it's either a mild double or a strong single IPA. For me, it's the perfect daytime summer beer. It's never too hot for hoppy beer.

These are some of their other really good offerings…

Hopslam (DIPA)
Black Note Stout
Roundhouse (Red Ale)
Oberon (Wheat)

Hopslam is just off the charts, #6 on Beer Advocate's list of DIPAs, and top 20 overall. You can only get it a couple of months out of the year and it's very expensive, but you have to grab it when you see it. Don't know what kind of distribution they have down there, but an old buddy of mine in Tampa was crowing about getting his hands on a six pack some time in the last year or so. You live in Tampa, right?

You left off their double cream stout, which I find amazing. Two hearted is great but hard to find around here, as they have production issues with it. Hopslam comes to jax, but you've got to keep your eyes open to find it.

Overall Bell's is one of the best domestic breweries out there, IMO.

[StrangeGator]

You left off their double cream stout, which I find amazing. Two hearted is great but hard to find around here, as they have production issues with it. Hopslam comes to jax, but you've got to keep your eyes open to find it.

Overall Bell's is one of the best domestic breweries out there, IMO.

Not that much of a stout drinker, so I count on other people's opinions. I've certainly heard good things about it, but not as much as I've heard about Black Note, or Founders' Stouts.

Hopslam is very hard to find, but we seem to heave Two Hearted Ale year round. Probably doesn't hurt to be just three hours away from Kalamazoo. There was a time five or six years ago where AB successfully cut Bells out of the Chicago market to protect their distribution channel for Goose Island products. Even Goose Island drinkers were pissed. That's not the way the craft brew business is supposed to work.

[northgagator]

I have never had a beer and I am 54. I am high on life and I have no need for that embalming fluid.

We need to have a Gatorpub Intervention and get this guy into our Twelve Step program :cry:

[StrangeGator]

We need to have a Gatorpub Intervention and get this guy into our Twelve Step program :cry:

This kind of intervention requires less than 12 steps… Open, pour, drink. But at 54, he's probably beyond any hope of redemption.

[channingcrowderhungry]

Drinking a Brooklyn '55 pennant ale. Nice light and crisp

[vanders]

had a Mich Lite on tap earlier

[ArtVandelay]

HE'BREW Hop Manna...

http://www.shmaltzbrewing.com/HEBREW/hopmanna.html

[channingcrowderhungry]

HE'BREW Hop Manna...

http://www.shmaltzbrewing.com/HEBREW/hopmanna.html

Been selling a ton of those at the beer store but haven't tried it yet. Thoughts?

[toon66]

Two Hearted Ale is probably one of their most popular beers. Depending on your conditioning to hops, it's either a mild double or a strong single IPA. For me, it's the perfect daytime summer beer. It's never too hot for hoppy beer.

These are some of their other really good offerings…

Hopslam (DIPA)
Black Note Stout
Roundhouse (Red Ale)
Oberon (Wheat)

Hopslam is just off the charts, #6 on Beer Advocate's list of DIPAs, and top 20 overall. You can only get it a couple of months out of the year and it's very expensive, but you have to grab it when you see it. Don't know what kind of distribution they have down there, but an old buddy of mine in Tampa was crowing about getting his hands on a six pack some time in the last year or so. You live in Tampa, right?

Correct, I live in T-town. I'll swing by Total Wine and see what they have on the shelves.

[ArtVandelay]

Been selling a ton of those at the beer store but haven't tried it yet. Thoughts?

It is very good. HE'BREW does a great job of having a nice amount of hops, but not having an overpowering flavor. It's got a nice citrus feel to it, but not overwhelming. Definitely recommend it if you like IPA's.

Go Gators!

[channingcrowderhungry]

Thanks!

[gator884]

Had a delicious Deviant Dale's IPA tallboy tonight

[StrangeGator]

Been selling a ton of those at the beer store but haven't tried it yet. Thoughts?

Very intriguing. I love Bitter Lenny's RIPA, but mainly because it's so strong. This one is a single IPA, a bit on the weak side for me, but I bet it's very flavorful. Nice blend of dry and wet hops.

Anyone tried their Funky Jewbilation yet?

[StrangeGator]

Very intriguing. I love Bitter Lenny's RIPA, but mainly because it's so strong. This one is a single IPA, a bit on the weak side for me, but I bet it's very flavorful. Nice blend of dry and wet hops.

Anyone tried their Funky Jewbelation yet?

Love the tag line for Funky Jewbelation… L'Chaim Sucka! Must be inspired by the Hebrew Hammer. "Shabbat Shalom Mamma!"

[ArtVandelay]

Very intriguing. I love Bitter Lenny's RIPA, but mainly because it's so strong. This one is a single IPA, a bit on the weak side for me, but I bet it's very flavorful. Nice blend of dry and wet hops.

Anyone tried their Funky Jewbilation yet?

Lenny's is very smooth for 10%...Have you had Origin? It's very good and its 8%.

They have a lot of good strong beers. Jewbilation is one of them. Every year they add 1 hop, 1 malt and 1%.

They also came out with Genesis 15:15.

Have you had Ommegang Three Philosophers?
http://www.ratebeer.com/beer/ommegang-three-philosophers/13667/

Go Gators!

[etennant]

Had a pint of The Black last night at Poet's Corner in Galway. The Guiness in Ireland is different and better than my usual draft places in the states.

Smithwick's produces a Pale Ale that is very nice and their brewery tour was a great way to spend an hour and a half.

[ArtVandelay]

Had a pint of The Black last night at Poet's Corner in Galway. The Guiness in Ireland is different and better than my usual draft places in the states.

Smithwick's produces a Pale Ale that is very nice and their brewery tour was a great way to spend an hour and a half.

My friend is there right now and posted the same thing on his Facebook. I wrote "I hope so because it tastes like *(&#$^$ here"

I am not a fan of Guiness (unless it's in an Irish car bomb)

[kalaniocc]

Good ole bud light

[etennant]

I didn't know Carlsberg was so popular in Ireland. It is everywhere. They do have Budweiser here and it's brewed at Smithwick's.

[toon66]

Had a pint of The Black last night at Poet's Corner in Galway. The Guiness in Ireland is different and better than my usual draft places in the states.

Smithwick's produces a Pale Ale that is very nice and their brewery tour was a great way to spend an hour and a half.

One of my sales reps is from Galway. I hear nothing but great things about that town; true?

[StrangeGator]

Had a pint of The Black last night at Poet's Corner in Galway. The Guiness in Ireland is different and better than my usual draft places in the states.

Smithwick's produces a Pale Ale that is very nice and their brewery tour was a great way to spend an hour and a half.

A respected brew master and craft brewery owner once told me that you've never had a Guinness until you've had one in Ireland. The Guinness that finds it's way over hear is months and months removed from the brewery process and is loaded with preservatives. When in the states, it's best to drink domestic craft stouts. When you're lucky enough to be in Ireland, drink fresh Guinness.

[StrangeGator]

Had a bomber of Bear Republic Racer X last night while preparing and then eating salmon quesadillas with sauteed shallots, mushrooms, mild chiles and Chihuahua cheese. Was enjoying the moment too much to post.

[channingcrowderhungry]

My friend decided to buy a 2009 Brooklyn black ops last night at a restaurant. WOW was that good

[etennant]

Galway is fantastic and gets overlooked too often in Ireland. We ate Oysters harvested from Galway Bay at Morans. There are blocks of pubs and restaurants with great seafood, beer and nightlife connected to Eyre Square. We had fish and chips there at McDonaghs that was made of the thickest and most moist cod I've ever had.

We were also told that the Guiness in the states is full of preservatives and doesn't taste the same. I couldn't get enough of Guiness in Ireland. Much more rich and great on the mouth.

[toon66]

A respected brew master and craft brewery owner once told me that you've never had a Guinness until you've had one in Ireland. The Guinness that finds it's way over hear is months and months removed from the brewery process and is loaded with preservatives. When in the states, it's best to drink domestic craft stouts. When you're lucky enough to be in Ireland, drink fresh Guinness.

Heineken is crap here but pretty damn good in Amsterdam.

[GatorLane77]

Tis what I'm sipping on while watching the game. Tasty...

http://www.saintarnold.com/images/beer/photo/photo_santo.jpg

[sneakygator]

A neighbor had some company that left some Murphy's Stout and lucky for me she gave it to me.
Nectar of the Gods I swear.

[gator884]

Sweetwater 15th anniversary ESB, no hiding the booze in this one!

[StrangeGator]

Had a Lagunitas Lucky 13 right after my workout. That hit the spot, especially since I was having some hip and lower back pain. Got through most of the live broadcast of the new Smashing Pumpkins album and I was starting to seize up. No muscle relaxers in the house, so I head out to Whole Foods. Because of the ridiculous liquor laws here, you can't sell beer after 10 pm. I was in line behind a Whole Foods employee who was buying a bunch of bottled water and vegan offerings. She and the cashier were very chatty. I put my bottle of Hop Juice up there and the cashier looked back at the manager (clock nazi) and she said "Sorry. It's after ten." I said. "Sorry your two employees sucked up the last two minutes of my time. I'll find beer somewhere." "Not likely" she said. Walked over to the cheese, wine, beer boutique and restaurant a block away. Grabbed a bottle of Hop Stoopid. They cashed me out for less than it would have cost at Whole Foods. I asked how late I could buy beer there. She said "None after ten. It's the law." I looked up at the clock. It was 10:11. So did she, and then giggled while she put my bottle in a bag. F- Whole Foods.

[toon66]

Whole Foods? You pay for classical music piped and the tranquil ambience of the whole place. The problem is the smug nature of the customer base over-paying for stuff you can find elsewhere. Screw that.

[bofusgators]

My health won"t let me now, but my favorite was a redstripe aka as a policeman.

[Swamper]

Shiner Bock!

[StrangeGator]

Whole Foods? You pay for classical music piped and the tranquil ambience of the whole place. The problem is the smug nature of the customer base over-paying for stuff you can find elsewhere. Screw that.

Whole Foods has a very good craft beer selection and prices are comparable to Binny's, our local liquor store chain. The beverage manager at Whole Foods is very cool and has a lot of freedom to buy what his customers want. He will set aside rare offerings for customers with specific tastes and even give me a heads up when something good is coming in. Binny's is fine, but it's much further away and they close even earlier than Whole Foods.

[gatordavisl]

Shiner Bock!Ahhhh takes me back to my Texas days. Used to stop thru the Beer Barn on the way home (just 2 blocks away). Would get a giant carton (like a thick movie-style popcorn carton) full of Shiner. They always asked "Ywana stroa wi dat?"

Right now it's Gin, dirty up. Fresh blue cheese-stuffed olives.

[ArtVandelay]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcOKUZPqBd4

go to 1:15