Dogfish Head - World Wide Stout (2008)

Dark, rich, roasty and complex, World Wide Stout has more in common with a fine port than a can of cheap, mass-marketed beer. Brewed with a ridiculous amount of barley. Have one with (or as!) dessert tonight.

2001 - (18%) displays the unaltered words "Vim and Vigor" on the label and with gold cap.

2002 - (23%) "Vim and Vigor" is crossed out with gold cap.

2003 - (18.8%). No "Vim and Vigor" present, gold cap.

2004 - (20%) Bright yellow cap, no date stamp.

2005 - Bright yellow cap, date stamp

2006 - Dark green cap, date stamp

2007 - Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

2008 - Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

2009 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp
2010 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp
 

World Wide Stout is one of the world’s strongest dark beers. It is brewed using six different yeast strains over seven months and then aged for half a year. World Wide Stout  is released in early winter with very limited availability.

I purchased this bottle at Capones in Norristown.

This post is for the Nov 2008 vintage.  Look in this blog for the 2001, 2002, 2004 and 2009 vintage.

The ABV is 20.0 and the IBU rating is 70
Style - Imperial Stout
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Dark brown in color and a small dark tan head.  Good lacing.
Aroma - Molasses, plum and raisins, toffee and chocolate. 
Taste - Sweet, coffee, chocolate, boozy, just a hint of dark fruits after it warms up to room temperature, some vanilla.
Mouth Feel - Light/medium carbonation, full body. Smooth finish.
Drinkable - Another great aged WWS. At just three years of aging, still young but taste great.

This beer pairs very with cheese and desserts.  But enjoy it as an after dinner drink if you can find an old bottle.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =100

Iron Hill - Wee Heavy

Strong Scotch ale, distinct malty sweet and fruity aroma and flavor complemented by a background slight smokey flavor from the use of peated malt.

2008 GABF Gold Medal
1998, 2001 GABF Bronze Medals
2004 World Beer Cup Gold Medal

Had this as an after dinner drink at a friends house.

The ABV is 8.3 and the IBU rating is 35
Style - Wee Heavy
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Snifter, Tumbler, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 750ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head and some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, sweet and some spices.
Taste - Malty, earthy - peaty and caramel.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and full body. 
Drinkable - Very nice, not a true wee heavy in my opinion.  It's like a earthy winter warmer.  But I still enjoyed it.

This beer pairs well with cheese and smoked meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =96

Dogfish Head - Pangaea 2009

Brewed with ingredients from each and every continent, this is slightly spicy ale, with a mouthful of rich flavors. Pangaea is a great food beer.

List of worldly ingredients includes:

• Crystallized ginger from Australia
• Water from Antarctica
• Basmati rice from Asia
• Muscavado sugar from Africa
• South American quinoa
• European yeast
• North American maize.

Pangaea is released annually in the fall and is bottled in 750ml bottles. I purchased two bottles of this 2009 vintage at the Rehoboth Beach brewpub.  Shared it with a couple friends on a very hot summer night just before dinner.

The ABV is 7.0 and the IBU rating is 28
Style - Belgium Strong Pale Ale
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 750ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a orange/amber color with a tan head and good lacing.
Aroma - White grapes, coriander, pepper and lots of ginger.
Taste - Malty, ginger and sweet.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body with a dry finish.
Drinkable - Nice brew, aging two years had helped bring out the spices just a bit.  I will hold on to the second bottle a few more years.

This beer pairs well with cheese and desserts.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =86

Breckenridge - Vanilla Porter

Who would have thought deep in the jungles of Papua New Guinea and Madagascar grew the perfect ingredient to build an extraordinary Porter in Colorado? An ale that has all the chocolate and roasted nut flavor of a classic Porter, with an enigmatic surprise thrown in for good measure, real vanilla bean. Breckenridge Brewery’s Vanilla Porter. A vanilla kiss in a rich, dark sea..

The ABV is 4.7 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - American Porter
Glass to use - Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug or Stein
Delivery- 12oz Bottle

Not recommended for extended cellaring.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head and some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, vanilla, other spices and fruit.
Taste - Sweet, tangy, vanilla, coffee, and some chocolate.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body. Creamy and coats the mouth.
Drinkable - Different. A strange combination, not sure if I would have another.  But try it yourself.

This beer pairs well with cheese and smoked meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B-
Ratebeer Rating =74

Dogfish Head - Black and Red

Black & Red is a velvety smooth dry-minted stout with a serious fruit problem! The huge portion of heavily roasted grains brings a dry, chocolaty character which contrasts its sweet fruity full body. As you tilt your glass, you'll notice that the black color you are perceiving is actually a very deep reddish hue and the rich creamy foam has a tinge of pink to it. Black & Red starts off roasted and warming with a robust mintiness from 100lbs of organic mint (Washington’s Green Grocer) added to the secondary fermentation and finishes out sweet and smooth.

This is only available on draft at the Rehoboth Beach brewpub and was tapped in April 2011.

Update; had this at the Iron Abbey in August of 2011.  They had it listed as Red and Brown, but it was the Black and Red.  This batch was way sweeter which made it harder to drink.  

The ABV is 10.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - American Double / Imperial Stout
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Snifter, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery Draft

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark ruby color with a dark tan head and good lacing.
Aroma - Mint, sweet and malty.
Taste - Dark cherry, dark chocolate, malty, sweet and sour.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body. 
Drinkable - Phenomenal, very different.  This is an experimental brew and probable will not be recreated.  I had this at the DFH brewpub in Rehoboth Beach, DE where they test out new brews.  Folks at the bar speculated that this might be part of the 120 Minute batches that went bad last year.  I agree.

This beer pairs well with cheese and desserts.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =53

Ithaca - Nut Brown Ale

The rich mahogany hue of the Nut Brown is the first thing you will notice about this complex, malty brew. A delicate blend of chocolate malt, caramel malt, and four other malts brings to this beer a chocolatey sweetness, and hints of coffee. The malt character is subtly balanced with Northdown and Fuggles hops.

The ABV is 5.4 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - English Brown Ale
Glass to use - Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug or Steins
Delivery - 12oz Bottle

Not recommended for extended cellaring.

The Pour - Pours a brown color with a tan head and little lacing.
Aroma - Malty, some coffee and chocolate.
Taste - Tangy almost sour like, sweet fruity-tart, some coffee and chocolate.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body. 
Drinkable - Interesting taste, not sure if the tartness is normal.  Maybe it was from aging the beer for a year.

This beer pairs well with cheese and grilled meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of C+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =67

J.W. Lees - Harvest Ale 2007

Available filtered and pasteurized in 275ml dark glass bottles. Has appeared occasionally in cask.
This fully fermented strong ale has been brewed by J.W. Lees as a celebration of the brewers art since 1985. Harvest Ale can be enjoyed now or laid down like a vintage wine for enjoyment in years to come.

This blog is for the 2007 release which I found at the Foodery.  In 2010 and 2011 I had the 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2006 all on different dates of course.  Sadly I have no blogs for the 1997, 1998 or 2001 vintages.

The 2007 is still a young ale and needs to age at least another 5 years.

The ABV is 11.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - English Barleywine
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 275ml Bottle

Should be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a cloudy brown color with a small tan head. Little lacing and a clear coat on the glass.
Aroma - Malty, dark fruit, some dark chocolate.
Taste -  Dark fruits like plums and raisins. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, full body, very smooth some burn from the alcohol.
Drinkable - Drinkable but needs to age, it's very young.  Given that it is a good brew, and a sipper.  

This beer pairs well with cheese and desserts but just enjoy it without food.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A
Ratebeer Rating = 99

Dogfish Head - World Wide Stout (2002)

Dark, rich, roasty and complex, World Wide Stout has more in common with a fine port than a can of cheap, mass-marketed beer. Brewed with a ridiculous amount of barley. Have one with (or as!) dessert tonight.

2001 - (18%) displays the unaltered words "Vim and Vigor" on the label and with gold cap.

2002 - (23%) "Vim and Vigor" is crossed out with gold cap.

2003 - (18.8%). No "Vim and Vigor" present, gold cap.

2004 - (20%) Bright yellow cap, no date stamp.

2005 - Bright yellow cap, date stamp

2006 - Dark green cap, date stamp

2007 - Dark green cap, date stamp

2008 - Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

2009 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp
2010 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

World Wide Stout is one of the world’s strongest dark beers. It is brewed using six different yeast strains over seven months and then aged for half a year. World Wide Stout  is released in early winter with very limited availability.

I purchased this bottle for a fund raiser at the Monk's Cafe.

This post is for the Oct 2002 vintage.  Look in this blog for the 2001, 2004 and 2009 vintage.

The ABV is 23.0 (26.0) and the IBU rating is 70
Style - Imperial Stout
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Black pure dark in color and no head (maybe a bit).  Clear coat lacing (a good sign).
Aroma - WOW! Dark cherries, apples, plums, very sweet and some vanilla. 
Taste - Explosion of flavor, sweet, tart cherries, molasses,toffee and vanilla.
Mouth Feel - Light to no carbonation, full body. sticky with a nice warm alcohol burn.
Drinkable - What can I say, this is the best aged beer I have ever had, maybe not quite as good as the 1994 Thomas Hardy's Ale.  Different fruit notes indeed.  This is a big time sipper, at an estimate 26% alcohol.  I purchased two bottles of this 2002 vintage, I'm contemplating how long to hold onto the second bottle.

This beer pairs very with cheese and desserts.  But enjoy it as an after dinner drink if you can find bottle at this age.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A++
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =100

Dogfish Head - World Wide Stout (2001)

Dark, rich, roasty and complex, World Wide Stout has more in common with a fine port than a can of cheap, mass-marketed beer. Brewed with a ridiculous amount of barley. Have one with (or as!) dessert tonight.

2001 - (18%) displays the unaltered words "Vim and Vigor" on the label and with gold cap.

2002 - (23%) "Vim and Vigor" is crossed out with gold cap.

2003 - (18.8%). No "Vim and Vigor" present, gold cap.

2004 - (20%) Bright yellow cap, no date stamp.

2005 - Bright yellow cap, date stamp

2006 - Dark green cap, date stamp

2007 - Dark green cap, date stamp

2008 - Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

2009 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp
2010 - (18%) Yellowish-green cap, date stamp

World Wide Stout is one of the world’s strongest dark beers. It is brewed using six different yeast strains over seven months and then aged for half a year. World Wide Stout  is released in early winter with very limited availability.

I purchased this bottle at a fund raiser at the Monk's Cafe.

This post is for the Nov 2001 vintage.  Look in this blog for the 2002, 2004 and 2009 vintage.

The ABV is 18.0 (21.0) and the IBU rating is 70
Style - Imperial Stout
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Black pure dark in color and a small dark tan head which vanishes after a few minutes.  Great lacing.
Aroma - Strong dark fruity mostly plum and raisins, molasses and toffee with a lingering hint of apples. 
Taste - Lushness, lost of chocolate influence, dark fruit, molasses some vanilla.
Mouth Feel - Very very smooth, light carbonation, medium body. A little chalky.
Drinkable - Very drinkable. I cannot sense the alcohol but it's in there! Reminds me of an aged Port.  I purchased two bottles of this 2001 vintage, not sure when I will open the second bottle.

This beer pairs very with cheese and desserts.  But enjoy it as an after dinner drink if you can find an old bottle.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A+
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =100

Unibroue - La Fin Du Monde (2010)

Bottle conditioned.
La Fin Du Monde - The end of the world. The excellence of triple fermentation through a blend of special yeasts gives this malt beverage an exquisitely robust flavor of exceptional refinement.

Updated Feb 2013

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is 19
Style - Triple
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for 3 to 5 years, under the proper condition.  Best at three years.

The Pour - A cloudy straw color with creamy white head.  Good lacing.
Aroma - A very distinct smell including fruit like apples and banana, and hints spice.
Taste - Sweet, malty, some spices and fruity.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation and full body, smooth but fuzzy with a dry finish.
Overall - Like the other brews from Unibroue this has a distinctive and complex taste due to it's unique yeast. Has a nice warm finish, I need to age a few for a few years.  This bottle was a year old.

Update - Opened my last bottle in 2013 (aged 3 years).  The carbination has dropped, no fuzzy mouth-feel.  Very pleasant and smooth.  Still has the apple aroma and taste with the hint of spices.  I really like how this brew aged!  I have two more from the sample case; Trois Pistoles (Strong Dark) and Don-De-Dieu Tripel Wheat which I will review very soon.   Cheers!

Goes good with seafood dishes and blue cheese.  I had it with a home made salad with sharp cheese and dried fruit.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-
BeerAdvocate Rating =A
Ratebeer Rating =99

Sly Fox - Saison VOS

A Belgian style Saison (or Farmhouse Ale) brewed with German Pils malt and hopped with East Kent Goldings. Fermented with a special proprietary yeast which imparts its dry, spicy character. Golden orange in color.
This review was done the summer of 2011 after I purchased a mixed case of Sly Fox's 750ml beers (Incubus, Ichor, Saison VOS and Raspberry Reserve)

The ABV is 6.9 and the IBU rating is 32
Style - Saison / Farmhouse Ale
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 750ml bottle.

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a straw/orange color with a big white head.  Good lacing.
Aroma - Fruity - banana & lemon, hoppy, spices and bready.
Taste - Hoppy, grassy, some spices - coriander and fruits.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, lite/medium body. Crisp with a dry finish.
Drinkable - A refreshing brew, good on a hot day.  Could be a session beer, should be enjoyed with food.

This beer pairs with white meat, Asian cuisine and cheeses.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B-
BeerAdvocate Rating = A-
Ratebeer Rating = 95

Ommegang - Abbey Ale

Ommegang Abbey Ale was inspired by the centuries-old brewing practices of the Belgian Trappist monks. This burgundian brew gives off a variety of aromas, including plum and cinnamon, and packs in flavors such as caramel, toffee, and licorice. At 8.5% abv, it is known to cause spontaneous meditation.

The ABV is 8.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Dubbel
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet, Chalice, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 750ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head that hangs around. Good lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel, dark fruits, spices.
Taste - Sweet, malty, caramel, spices like clove, licorice and slightly hoppy. 
Mouth Feel - Full body, high carbonation.
Drinkable - Not the best dubbel I've had but still a good one.  Too much carbonation for my taste.  I purchased this in Fall of 2010.  Aging another year or two will help in that department.

Try this with savory dishes, meats, slow-cooked French dishes made with pork, lamb, rabbit, beef, carbonnades, hotchpot, marinated roasts, barbeque, rich cheeses, almost every dessert.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating = 99

21st Amendment - Monk's Blood

Monk’s Blood pays homage to the monks of Belgium’s monasteries who have been brewing some of the world’s great beer for centuries. During times of fasting, the monks subsist solely on beer, which they refer to as “liquid bread”. Beer, quite literally, is in their blood. The most sublime of the monk’s premium brews is dark like blood, rich and nourishing. 21st Amendment founders Nico Freccia and Shaun O’Sullivan traveled to Belgium to develop the recipe for this special beer, visiting small, traditional breweries in the hop fields of west Flanders, not far from the famous Trappist abbey of Westvleteren. Monk’s Blood is designed to pair beautifully with rich winter stews, creamy cheeses, unctuous desserts or just by itself, in a Belgian tulip glass, with a good book by the fire.

Had this at the Grey Lodge in Northeast Philly.

The ABV is 8.3 and the IBU rating is 34
Style - Belgium Strong Dark
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet, Chalice, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Can

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head. Some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel, sweet, molasses and dark fruit.
Taste - Tangy, malty, dark fruit - (plum and raisin) and caramel. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body.
Drinkable - A great brew, my first Belgium in a can!  I was not disappointed.

Try this with your favorite BBQ or any grilled meat and goes well with pungent or sharp cheeses.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating = 96

Sly Fox - Incubus

A Tripel in the Abbot style, famed for its powers of seduction. Brewed with German Pils malt and invert sugar. Golden in color, dry and spicy.

I first reviewed this brew with a few friends back in 2009.

This review was done the summer of 2011 after I purchased a mixed case of Sly Fox's 22oz beers (Incubus, Ichor, Saison VOS and Raspberry Reserve)

The ABV is 10.3 and the IBU rating is 39
Style - Tripel
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Goblet
Delivery 750ml bottle.

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a straw color with a white head.  Good lacing.
Aroma - Fruity, hoppy and bready.
Taste - Hoppy, some spices and fruits.  Has a slight metallic after taste.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation, medium body.  Fizzy.
Drinkable - An average triple in my opinion. But still a good beer to have once in a while.  I personally prefer the Sly Fox quad (Ichor). 

This beer pairs with white meat and strong cheeses.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B-.
BeerAdvocate Rating = B+
Ratebeer Rating = 93

Firestone - Double Jack

Double Jack IPA is Firestone-Walkers first ever Imperial IPA. It features a big malty middle to cloak the high alcohol and mouth puckering hop bitterness. Huge tangerine, grapefruit and juicy fruit aroma blossom over the herbal blue basil and malt earthiness of this aggressive beer.  

The ABV is 9.5 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Double IPA

Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet, Chalice or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 22oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a amber color with a white head. Great lacing.
Aroma - Hoppy, flowery, citrus fruit and a hint of banana.
Taste -  Sweet, hoppy, malty, fruity with a small bitter after taste.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, full body and smooth. 
Drinkable - Very good, refreshing, no harsh bitter after taste (just a hint).  Watch out for the alcohol.  I purchased a case of the 22oz.  Will age several for a number of years.

This beer pairs well with cheese and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =100

Dogfish Head - Midas Touch

This recipe is the actual oldest-known fermented beverage in the world! It is an ancient Turkish recipe using the original ingredients from the 2700 year old drinking vessels discovered in the tomb of King Midas. Somewhere between wine & mead; this smooth, sweet, yet dry ale will please the Chardonnay or beer drinker alike.

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is 12
Style - Spiced Ale
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug or Stein
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a straw color with a white head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, hoppy and grassy.
Taste -  Fruity-citrus and and spices. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body, crisp.Finishes with a warm burn from the alcohol.
Drinkable - A different brew indeed. DFH has been resurrecting many ancient beer recipes, this was the first one.

This beer pairs well with white meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =93

Dogfish Head - 90 Minute

Esquire Magazine calls the 90 Minute I.I.PA., "perhaps the best I.P.A. in America." An Imperial I.P.A. brewed to be savored from a snifter. A big beer with a great malt backbone that stands up to the extreme hopping rate. This beer is an excellent candidate for use with Randall The Enamel Animal! 90 ibu

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is 90
Style - Imperial IPA
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Snifter, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a straw color with a big off-white head. Excellent lacing.
Aroma - Hoppy with fruity citrus-like hints.
Taste -  Sweet, malty, hoppy, some spices and citrus. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and big body.
Drinkable - Another great brew from DFH.  Nice warm burn from the alcohol. The hop taste is not overpowering at all.  Easy drinking but watch out for the alcohol.

This beer pairs well with cheese and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =100

Avery - Brabant (2009)

No. 1, Brabant, is a luscious dark ale fermented with two strains of wild yeast (Brettanomyces) then aged for 8 months in Red Zinfandel barrels from Norman Vineyards in Paso Robles, CA. Enjoy sifting through the vast layers of complexity in this mysterious ale. 694 cases produced.

Bottled February 10th, 2009

Had this at the Memphis Taproom.

The ABV is 8.65 and the IBU rating is 25
Style - Barrel-Aged Wild Ale
Glass to use- Flute, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, oaky tannins, sour dark fruit - cherries.
Taste -  Malty, nice tart taste taste, some spices. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body, dry finish.
Drinkable - This bottle had aged for two years and it shows in a good way.  Seek it out though it may be very hard to find since the last batch was in 2009.

This beer pairs well with white meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =98

Pretty Things - Baby Tree

Baby tree is a "quadruple" brewed with a single strain of Belgian yeast. While a commonly used style name on the internet, "quadruple" isn’t in fact a style name at all but a brand of beer produced by La Trappe in the Netherlands. Its found a common usage as a cover-all for the darkest and strongest beers produced by Trappist monks, mainly because they haven’t named them themselves. Two Belgian brewers use the term "Abt", Flemish for "Abbot". Historically the best beer made in an abbey (by the Cistercians/Trappists at least) was referred to in Latin simply as "prima melior". This has also become a brand name in recent years. Our "quadruple" benefits from the addition of 40lbs of dried California plums in the kettle - hopefully contributing to the overall dark-fruit character of the beer. It’s a dark, 8.6% beer..."Baby Tree" is Pretty Things’ first seasonal beer.

Had this a the Memphis Taproom.


The ABV is 8.65 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Quadruple
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet or Chalice
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head. Great lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, malty, toffee and caramel.
Taste -  Malty, some spice and dark fruits like raisins and plums. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body, smooth.
Drinkable - A very nice brew.  A pleasant surprise.

This beer pairs well with cheese and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =95

La Trappe - Isid'or

This beer is indeed brewed to commemorate the 125 anniversary of the brewery. And is named after brother Isidorus, the first brewer of brewery "de Koningshoeven"..

The ABV is 7.5 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Belgium Pale Ale

Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 330ml Bottle

Not recommended for extended cellaring.

The Pour - Pours a amber color with a big tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, malty, toffee and caramel. 
Taste -  Sweet, bubble gum, candy-like.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation, medium body, fizzy.
Drinkable - Nice.  A little different than the normal La Trappe doubel or tripel.  

This beer may pair well with cheese and white meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =94

De Dolle - Stille Nacht

Stille Nacht (Silent Night) is a prestige beer from De Dolle Brouwers, brewed for Christmas. It has the highest density of any Belgian beer (27°Pl). It has been boiling for many hours, brewed with pale malt with white candy sugar in the kettle. The Nugget hops gives an extra bitterness to balance the extreme sweetness due to the density. The taste triangle is completed with some acidity of the fermentation. It is a very interesting beer to age. We have samples of every bottling we have done so far and aging hasn't decreased the quality of this beer. Keep some samples at 10°C and mark the year on the cap with an alcohol marker. Cheers!!

The ABV is 12.0 and the IBU rating is ??

Style -Belgium Strong Ale

Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 330ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours an amber color with a big white head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Fruity - banana - citrus, cotton candy
Taste - Fruity, vanilla, apples.  Bit of a harsh metallic aftertaste.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation.  Medium body.  Fuzzy
Drinkable -A nice sipper, the alcohol is hidden well with a slight warm burn at the end. 

This beer may pair well with white meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating = 99

Ommegang - BPA

This fine pale ale has citrus and tropical fruit aromatic shared with a well-balanced – yet abundant – hop character. It uses Duvel Belgian yeast, five malts, two hops, and plenty of patience. Finishing touches include dry-hopping with Cascade hops and warm-cellaring.

The ABV is 6.2 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Belgium Pale Ale

Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 12oz Bottle

Not recommended for extended cellaring.

The Pour - Pours a amber color with a big white head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Citrus fruits and a bit hoppy.
Taste -  Some Malts and spices, some hops.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, medium body, dry finish.
Drinkable - Refreshing on a hot day, very crisp.  I will stick with real Belgium ales for this style.  Try one of the other Ommegang brews, they are much better.

This beer may pair well with cheese and white meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =97

Sly Fox - Ichor

An Abbot style Quadruple brewed with German pils and roast malts and Belgian candy sugar, hopped with German tradition hops. Luscious and seductive, Ichor is brewed for both the body and the soul. This beer will improve with careful aging but is ready to drink now.

I purchased the 22oz bottle of the Ichor and Incubus at the Broad Axe Tavern June of 2009 and shared it with some friends a few days later.

This review was done the summer of 2011 after I purchased a mixed case of Sly Fox's 22oz beers (Incubus, Ichor, Saison VOS and Raspberry Reserve)

The ABV is 10.0 and the IBU rating is 20
Style - Quadruple
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip or Goblet
Delivery 750ml bottle.

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head.  Good lacing.
Aroma - Malty, dark fruits, molasses and toffee.
Taste - Malty, fruits - plum, raisin and dark cherry.  Hint of spice and chocolate.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, big body.
Drinkable - A good quadruple indeed that stands up to the Belgium quads.  Purchase a few bottles, drink one now and age the other.

This beer pairs with beef and cheeses.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating = B+
Ratebeer Rating = 89

Harvey's - Christmas Ale

This brews popularity made it difficult to restrict it to being available for only a limited period. Fortunately the high alcohol level enables us to brew enough to last most of the year. This ensures that we keep this ales enthusiasts happy all year round. A strong, dark, heavily hopped seasonal drink.

The ABV is 8.7 and the IBU rating is ??

Style -Winter Warmer

Glass to use- Pint Glass or Tumbler
Delivery - 275ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a brown color with no head. No lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, caramel and malty
Taste - Toffee, spices and a little licorice
Mouth Feel - No carbonation.  Medium body.
Drinkable -Very flat, don't know if this normal or if I had a bad batch.  I could not local the brew date, there's a chance it could have been an older bottle.  A strange brew indeed. 

This beer may pair well with desserts and white meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =91

Victory - Moonglow Weizenbock

This dark amber wheat beer features fruity and spicy aromas galore. Significant strength underlies the pleasant citric appeal of this bock beer. Redolent with the flavors of harvest fruit, Moonglow typifies the traditional weizenbock-style so thoroughly enjoyed throughout Bavaria. Left unfiltered, its unique yeast strain gives Moonglow a radiance all its own.

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Weizen Bock

Glass to use- Flute or Weizen Glass
Delivery - 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a amber color with a tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Fruity - banana, spices and caramel. 
Taste -  Malty and spicy, little hoppy.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, light/medium body, very smooth.
Drinkable - Had this on a very hot day.  Very satisfying.  

This beer may pair well with desserts and grilled meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =97

Samuel Smith - Yorkshire Stingo

Bottle conditioned.  Some of the oak casks at Samuel Smith’s date back more than a century with the individual oak stave's being replaced by the Old Brewery coopers over the years. Gradually the casks soak in more & more of the character of the ale fermented in stone Yorkshire squares. Yorkshire Stingo is aged for at least a year, matured in these well-used oak casks in the brewery’s underground cellars deriving fruit, raisin, treacle toffee, Christmas pudding and slight oaky flavors, before being further naturally conditioned in bottle.

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - English Strong Ale

Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 550ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark amber color with a big tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Dark fruit, sweet and some oak tannins. 
Taste -  Malty, toffee, some spice, hint of vanilla, slightly hoppy.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, full body.
Drinkable - Very nice, smooth, has the typical Samuel Smith hop flavor.  I've been looking awhile for this brew.  I found it at a six pack store and purchased a few bottles.  I will store the second bottle for a few months. 

This beer may pair well with cheese and grilled meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =96

Lost Abbey - Red Barn Ale

This Farmhouse Ale traces its roots to the small rustic breweries of Southern Belgium. The word Saison comes to us from the French language and it means Season. Lightly spiced with Organic Ginger, Orange Peels, Black Pepper and Grains of Paradise, this brew promises to quench your thirst on the hottest Southern California days or wherever your travels may take you. Available in 750 ml bottles and on draft at select inspired locations.

The ABV is 6.7 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Saison / Farmhouse Ale

Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - 750ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a straw color with a white head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Grassy, flowery and biscuit flavors. 
Taste -  Some spice, lite hop finish.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation, low body.  Fizzy and dry.
Drinkable - A good summer ale but a bit lacking in the body and taste.

This beer may pair well with cheese and white meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =98

De Brunehaut - St. Martin Brune

The brewery's history dates directly to 1096 in Tournai. With its aroma of caramel and liquorice, this dark beer of 8% should be drunk at room temperature.

World Beer Championship 2007 – Silver

The ABV is 8.0 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Dubbel
Glass to use- Goblet or Chalice
Delivery 330ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a brown color with a tan head. Some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel and some dark fruits. 
Taste - Sweet, malty, molasses and caramel. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonated and body.
Drinkable - I like it.  Could drink more than one. This is a good brew but does not stand above the Belgium beer crowd.

This beer pair well with cheese and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =89

Bell's - Cherry Stout

This unique ale begins its life as a powerful and richly sweet stout to which Michigan tart cherries are added. The resulting black brew is complex, sweet and tart with a distinct cherry finish. It will improve with cellaring. Available September - May.

The ABV is 7.0 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Fruit Stout
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug or Stein
Delivery - 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark ruby/brown color with a reddish head that disappeared,  Little lacing.
Aroma - Fruity, malty some hops.
Taste - Wow, a tart cherry taste upfront rounded off by a nice maltiness.  Nice finish.
Mouth Feel - Light carbonation and medium body.  Very smooth.
Drinkable - Not sure what to expect, I been wanting to try this for some time.  This is a great mix of flavors.  You need to try this out.  Will cellar one a year or so.

This beer pairs well with cheese, chocolate and try it with a salad.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =92

Alesmith - Grand Cru

Bottle conditioned.  AleSmith Grand Cru really needs to be tasted to be truly appreciated. Toasty, caramelly flavors, as well as flavors imparted by the Belgian yeast strain, predominate over a tapestry of subtle nuances. Winner of the blue ribbon at the 1999 California State Fair, it is a thing of beauty. It is available in 750 ml. champagne bottles. Appearance: Crystal clear (when served properly), with a toast-brown color. Flavor: Starts with the tangy flavor of our championship Belgian yeast, then fades to a medium-light flavor of vanilla, caramel and chocolate. Finishes dry and well-balanced with a slightly toasty flavor. Aroma: Vanilla and chocolate aromas predominate, along with the Belgian yeast characteristics. Mouthfeel (body/texture): Clean and crisp, medium-bodied. Warmth from the high alcohol content makes it feel like a fine wine.

The ABV is 10.0 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Belgium Strong Dark Ale
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 750ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a brown color with a big tan head. Some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel and toffee. 
Taste - Sweet, tangy, malty and caramel. 
Mouth Feel - Fizzy, highly carbonated.  Full body.  Dry finish.
Drinkable - Nice, I was not sure what to expect.  I like it.  Drinkable but it will catch up with up at 10%.

This beer pair well with cheese and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =99

Fegley's - Hop'Solutely

Hop’Solutely is deep copper in color, brewed with Cascade, Chinook, Amarillo, Summit and Tomahawk Hops. It has a complex grapefruit hop aroma which is followed by a smooth malt flavor. Hop’Solutely comes in at a whopping 11.5% ABV with 74 IBUs.

The ABV is 11.5 and the IBU rating is 74
Style - Imperial IPA
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet, Chalice, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a copper color with a big tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Fruity like bananas and flowery from the hops.
Taste -  Sweet, some fruits and hoppy. 
Mouth Feel - Medium body and carbonation, smooth.
Drinkable - Very good, alcohol is hidden well (small slow burn at the end).  No nasty bitter after taste from the hops.

This beer pairs well with cheese and grilled meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating = 95

Coopers - Vintage Ale 2008

Bottle conditioned.
Brewed with choice malts and an extended top fermentation. This naturally conditioned ale experiences interactions between the robust malt, hop and yeast characteristics, to exhibit an intriguing journey of flavor development over a period of five years when stored under cellar conditions.

The ABV is 7.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - English Strong Ale
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Mug or Seidel
Delivery - 375ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours an amber color with a tan head and good lacing.
Aroma - Malty and a lite hop scent.
Taste - Not much, little malty and some hops.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation (too much) medium body.  Fizzy drink.
Drinkable - A bit watered downed. Was expecting sometime totally different.  May need to cellar a few more years.

This beer pairs well with cheese and white meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B
Ratebeer Rating =88

Blue Point - Old Howling Bastard

Blue Point Brewing's "Old Howling Bastard" named after an infamous local character, this strong ale has plenty of character all its own. Made with English 2 row barley and Vienna malt. Reaching an alcohol content of 10% barleywine should be consumed in moderation. Strong malty caramel flavors balanced by lots and lots of hops. Try this in a snifter or wineglass. The trick is to never forget that after a few glasses you may become the "Old Howling Bastard".

The ABV is 10.0 and the IBU rating is 60
Style - American Barleywine
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler or Snifter
Delivery - 22oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a orange color with a tan head that disappears. Some lacing.
Aroma - Sweet, malty and fruity.
Taste - Hoppy, sweet, some maltiness and fruit.
Mouth Feel - High carbonation and full body.
Drinkable - Not bad, not my favorite ABW but will try it again next year. 

This beer pairs well with cheese and desserts.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =90

Weyerbacher - Slam Dunkel

Slam Dunkel was a small batch release in 2007. Weyerbacher had such an overwhelming response that they had to put it in the seasonal rotation. This 7% Double Dunkelweizen is unfiltered and made with over 50% wheat malt along with pale, munich, and a touch of chocolate to give it the traditional color and flavor. Bitterness is subdued to allow the Weihenstephen yeast to shine through with those traditional notes of banana and clove. Available in June in bottles and draft. Recipe by Chris Wilson, Head Brewer.

The ABV is 9.0 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Dunkelweizen
Glass to use- Flute or Weizen Glass
Delivery - 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head and good lacing.
Aroma - Malty, sweet, bready and a hint of spice maybe chocolate.
Taste - Sweet, malty, fruity - bananas and tangy.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and body.
Drinkable - I like it, this is a good brew.  True to the style. 

This beer pairs well with grilled meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =93

Amager Bryghus - Batch One

With this special brew, Batch One, AB dared to experiment with combining usual devotion to a solid malt profile with the addition of American aroma hops. Batch One is an American-inspired Ale characterized by its vast, full body and generous use of hops. In the glass, it has a reddish-brown color with a coppery glow, and a beige-colored head leaves a nice lacing behind. For this brew AB chose to only use the noble Simcoe hop, both for boiling and the following dry-hopping. The hops give the beer its fresh citrus-like character and impart a solid bitterness to balance the sweet caramel malt.


The ABV is 9.2 and the IBU rating is 80

Style - American Strong Ale

Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler or Snifter
Delivery - Draft

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a amber color with a big tan head. Great lacing.
Aroma - Very Hoppy and grassy. 
Taste -  Sweet, fruity and like a double IPA.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, full body..
Drinkable - Not as advertised, is an Imperial IPA or a Double IPA.  

This beer may pair well with desserts and grilled meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =97

Nøgne Ø/Jolly Pumpkin/Stone - Special Holiday Ale

This is the second release of Special Holiday Ale, which was first brewed in San Diego in 2008. Each brew is following the same recipe, including Michigan chestnuts, white sage from southern California and Norwegian juniper berries, but differences in brewing and aging practices produce different beers. Cheers to being different! Skål!

The ABV is 8.5 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Winter Warmer

Glass to use- Pint Glass or Tumbler
Delivery - 500ml Bottle

Not recommended for extended cellaring.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head. Good lacing.
Aroma - Woody oak, berries, green peppers and other spices. 
Taste -  Sweet, fruity, berries and chocolate.
Mouth Feel - Light carbonation, medium body.
Drinkable - Very surprising, complex, excellent holiday brew.  

This beer may pair well with desserts.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =B+
Ratebeer Rating =98

Het Anker - Gouden Carolus Classic

Het Anker Brewery still brews "The Emperor’s Beer" which is top-fermented and bottle conditioned following traditional methods. Its high gravity (O.G. 1080-85) combines the warmth of wine and the freshness of beer. Gouden Carolus is one of the strongest and most exciting beers in the world. After lengthy maturing and conditioning, it is bottled unfiltered, giving a beer which is rich in vitamins and 100% natural. Gouden Carolus has unlimited storage (it even improves with age) and will charm you with its warm coppery color and rich bouquet.

The ABV is 8.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Belgium Strong Dark Ale
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 330ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours to a dark brown color with a big tan head that disappears after a while. Good lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel and fruity.
Taste - Sweet, malty and some candy.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and full body.
Drinkable - A typical Belgium dubbel but not quite as good as others.  But give it a go...

This beer pairs well with cheese and grilled meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =99

Amager Bryghus - Xbeeriment Black Force One

The basic idea with this beer originated while making Xbeeriment Barack. AB decided to go for it and create an Imperial Stout made with 5 different kinds of malt including substantial amounts of peat smoked malt, roasted barley and 3 different hop varieties. Then added a 4th variety for dry hopping. Finally it was bottled unfiltered, bottle conditioned and left to mature in the bottle for 2 months before release. Serve at 53-57 degrees Fahrenheit.

The ABV is 10.4 and the IBU rating is ??

Style - Imperial Stout

Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler, Snifter or Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery - Draft

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a dark brown color with a tan head. Great lacing.
Aroma - Roasty malts, sweet and chocolate. 
Taste -  Deep roasty malts, dark chocolate, a slight hop after burn and boozy.
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation, full body.
Drinkable - A good example of the style.It's a slipper, only negative aspect is the harsh hop aftertaste which some folks like.

This beer may pair well with cheese and smoked meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =99

Guinness - Foreign Extra

Higher in alcohol content than other Guinness products, this stout has a strong, oaky, complex flavor.


The ABV is 7.5 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Stout
Glass to use- Pint Glass, Tumbler or Snifter
Delivery 355ml Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours a black color with a tan head. Some lacing.
Aroma - Malty, caramel, chocolate and sweet. 
Taste - Sweet, roasty malts, chocolate, smoky and peaty. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonated and body.
Drinkable - A bit boozy.  Much better than the Guinness you get at your local pub on draft.  Search it out and give it a go.

This beer pair well with chocolate, desserts and meats.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B+.
BeerAdvocate Rating =A-
Ratebeer Rating =96

Fegley's - Space Monkey

Formulated to rocket around your palate with a 21st century complexity in flavor and aroma: Hints of lemon and pepper orbit around a raspberry tartness to guarantee a successful flight.

The ABV is 7.0 and the IBU rating is ??
Style - Raspberry Saison
Glass to use- Snifter, Tulip, Goblet, Chalice, Oversized Wine Glass
Delivery 12oz Bottle

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Pours an amber color with a white head. Some lacing.
Aroma - Fruity and hoppy.
Taste -  Tart, fruity and hoppy. 
Mouth Feel - Medium carbonation and light body, slightly dry.
Drinkable - A good summer beer, light fruit taste that is not over bearing.

This beer pairs well with cheese and meat.

This beer gets a Duper rating of B-.
BeerAdvocate Rating =C+
Ratebeer Rating =77