Flying Dog In-Heat Wheat Hefeweizen

Today is a good day! I'm enjoying an unfiltered wheat hefeweizen by Flying Dog brewery, and it is worth the purchase price! This Hefe is a solid pick for your tasting pleasure. It has such a smoothness that surprises you with that classic hefeweizen flavor, no bitterness. I am enjoying this while cooking up a mess of my Chicken gumbo and am looking forward to pairing the two. I think you would be amiss if you tried to add a lemon slice, or anything for that matter, to this brew, it stands alone just fine.
Matt gives this a 4 out of 5 and an ayeeee!

LA 31 Grenade by Bayou Teche Biere

  This passion fruit infused beer has a sweet caramel tone to the nose, and a strange (that doesn't necessarily mean bad) dominant flavor. We will come back to that. The mouth feel is crisp yet also slightly slick, and goes down quite smooth. There is a sweet aftertaste indicating a good deal of sugar is in this brew. Almost no bitterness is present at all. If you are trying to get your wife to try new beers, this might do the trick.
  Now, back to that flavor. I am not really familiar with passion fruit, so I cannot with any degree of accuracy comment on whether this beer taste strongly of that fruit. It does definitely taste strongly of something and I detected an almost vegetal undertone mixed with hints of mango. This is an easy to drink beer whose nose bends more towards malted barley as it warms. It is definitely worth a try if you like sweet beers, but it is not high on this reviewer's favorites list. I will trying pairing one of them with a strongly bitter beer to see what that does with the flavor. As an important side note, I obtained a six-pack of this by winning a bet with a good friend of mine. My friend Brittnee bet me a six-pack if I ate a katydid. Which I did. So now with gratitude in my heart I have reviewed the fruits of my labor.
_ the Zech gives the Grenade a 3.0 out of 5-

Lazy Magnolia Brewery has allowed this beer to be brewed there and bottled under another name. I'm confused, is this malt liquor with passion fruit infusion or an effort at a quality beer. Either way, I found an initial grapy smell coming from this product. Expecting a sweetness that comes with the whiff, I was belayed by a flat, unimpressive offering. You can call it a lack of appreciation for passion fruit or a misunderstanding of what to expect, but I missed the point here.At first I found some promise in this as I felt it had a smoothness in the aftertaste, but the more I drank the more the aftertaste began to annoy me. It stayed with me like an onion does long after finishing the burger, you enjoy it initially but then it just gets to be to much. I found this to be more than my palate could bear and so...
Matt gives this 1.5 out of 5
 

Moose Drool brown Ale

Moose Drool, made by Big Sky Brewing Co. in Missoula, Montana is a delicious and masterfully crafted brown ale. It has chocolate tones in the flavor, a bit of charcoal in the nose and a clean, refreshing mouthfeel. I was given this can by a friend of mine at the Jackson, TN, Fire Department (Thanks Brian) and now I am mad @ him for not giving me a six pack. I mean, what kind of friend gives you one beer when he knows it will be this good? That is simple cruelty. Anyway, this is an excellent brown ale with just a touch of individuality from the good folks in Missoula. I highly recommend it.
-Zach gives the Moose 5 out 5 big drooly kisses-

Flying Dog Tire Bite Golden Ale

This  refreshing, unassuming Ale sporting a light dissipating head, drew my attention. The Nose was clean, nothing jumping into my nostrils for a whiff, smelled almost like a light beer. As I began to partake though, I began noticing a light citrus undertow that pulled me back for more. I almost noticed light whispers of hop flavor, but without any bittering. This beer is great for warm weather, I would probably choose this with a summer crab boil. Cover the picnic table with newspapers set the boiling pot dead center and start cracking because a cold Tire Bite will go along with the party.
Matt gives this a howling 4 out of 5.

What the Fahrvergnügen? Is Matt starting to like fruity beers? Come to the dark side Matt. We have cookies.
Anyway, I digress. It is not really a fruity beer, there are simply some hints of citrus that I attribute to masterful use of hops and yeast. There is a well balanced malts and hops essence to the nose, the mouth feel is clean and medium bodied. A thoroughly enjoyable brew that delivers golden rays of sunshine directly to your tastebuds while little refreshment ninjas surf into your mouth on gentle waves of hoppy malted barley goodness.
-the Zech also delivers 4 out of 5 to this ale-

Laughing Skull Amber Ale

This Craft brewed product from the makers of red brick beers out of Atlanta Brewing, delights me in such a favorable way. My initial taste of this brought me slight hints of hop with a smooth malt finish. Both are subtle and this Ale gives you the feeling of quality start to finish. The bottle says its a return of an old favorite from Atlanta and though I never had the pleasure of trying it before, I'm glad they did bring it back so that I could enjoy this delightful Amber.
Matt gives this a 4 out of 5

Schlafly Raspberry Hefeweizen Ale

So... You say Matt is not a lover of the fruity sweet beers he's gonna give this a downer review. I really thought, and was prepared to whine about, a ruined Hefeweizen. As usual you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. The front of the bottle shows all these sweet raspberries as if they laced it with fruitiness. I will say, It has a raspberry flavor in it, but it is a well balanced addition to the Classic hefeweizen flavors and , dare I say it...is quite good. an unfiltered bitterness comes across but the addition of the raspberry adds a little balance. A bit of fruitiness comes out in the nose and the magnificent fluffy white head emanates raspberry, but not overly so. I recommend you pull this one out with a fresh apple pie with extra whipped cream and enjoy a beer with your dessert.
Matt gives it a 3.5 out of 5

If you have tried other beers brewed with raspberries, you will already know that they are often used to balance a bitter brew and lend a smoothness to an ale. This is definitely the case with Schlafly's raspberry hefeweizen. A well crafted hefeweizen made smoother by a subtle addition of raspberry. This ale is unfiltered and should be swirled in your bottle before the last is poured in the glass. As it warms, you can smell the berries even stronger, and their scent mixes well with the phenolic tones coming off this beer. This brew has a crisp mouthfeel with just a hint of slickness. A very enjoyable brew.
-Zech gives this offering from Schlafly a 3.5 out of 5 as well-

Flying Dog Old Scratch Amber Lager

Zech and I recently celebrated a milestone in our beer blogging by enjoying some brews at one of our favorite beer watering holes, The Flying Saucer, Nashville. http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/nashville/ While there we tried various beers, Zech's view of, "if this is good and that is good than the two together make great", had him trying some really interesting concoctions of beer, which we would like to find some of for reviews... Should make interesting reading. I enjoyed a draft of Old Scratch, so afterwards at Frugal McDoogals beer store I purchased some for review. This malty amber is very smooth with a hint of coffee undertones. The head was definitely passing the 2 finger rule and left a nice lacing down the glass. I personally enjoyed this beer from cold to warm and everything in between. If your an Amber Lager fan as I am than this is absolutely worth a look.

Matt gives this 4 out of 5 scratches!


Monkeys in a walnut tree. Or something like that. This Flying Dog Old Scratch might be sharing a name with the Evil One, but evil it ain't. It be really good. If you ain't stoopid, drink this.

-the Zech gives the Old Scratch a well deserved 4 out of 5-

Morland Brewing Old Speckled Hen

This English Import comes with a little history, it was named after the delivery car used at the MG car factory, brewing this Ale the first time to commemorate the 50th anniversary of that car maker. That delivery car was called the "ol speckled un". You can see why that wasn't the last time they made this amber ale since it is a good product. It poured with a nice tight head and left a good lacing on the glass as I consumed it. The nose on it initially gave me a whiff of metallic, which I have to admit worried me. My first drinks while the beer was still cold left a dry flavor at the back of my throat, undoubtedly the hops, but as it warms it smooths and sweetens. I found this ale much better, warmer but not warm, if that makes sense. This Ale was reminiscent of the Strangford Lough products we reviewed before, but I have to admit I liked them more. I would say that this is worth an amber ale lovers try.
Matt gives The Speckled Un 3 out of 5

The initial metallic taste is a little off-putting at first, and it is present in the nose as well. However, as this brew warms the metallic flavor bends towards a mild hoppy bitterness, but is still present. Though I can detect a smooth amber ale that is quite pleasant, the metallic bitterness is indicative of a poor brewing process and evidence that either the brewers didn't taste this batch or didn't care. Iron or mild steel in contact with the beer; freshly-scrubbed stainless steel that has not been allowed to oxidize (passivation); improper filtering material; high iron content in water; poorly processed grain, all can contribute to this undesirable flavor. You simply don't release a product meant to evoke fond memories without a rigid set of quality control procedures. I am highly disappointed and though the amber ale does give evidence of a well balanced recipe, I cannot get past the lack of concern evidenced in this beer.
-The Zach gives this "Old Speckled Hen" 1 boot in the rear out of 5 and a "Bleh!"-

Magic Hat IPA On Tour

This dark IPA is truly a craft beer lovers delight. As I poured this I immediately thought it was Stout but after your first sip you'll soon discover that the hops are essentially well placed within this amazing beer. The oils from the hops are well balanced and well mixed. I also found coffee and malt tones to the wonderful elixir. I cannot stress enough the joys I have received from The Magic Hat Brewing Company. If you are looking for a mix of excellent craft beers buy a sampler 12 pack and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!
Matt gives the Magic Hat Demo IPA a 4 out of 5


Holy $%^**! This ale wows you at first taste. It is the illegitimate love child of a milk stout and a well balanced IPA. I can honestly say I have never had anything like this. Matt's take on the flavors is spot on and there is stuff (floaties of unknown origin) that is suspended in this brew. Could these be yeast remnants? There is a slight sweetness to this ale that nicely balances the bitter of the malts and the hops. I am once again in awe of the Magic Hat brewery and thus I proclaim my unworthiness. Drink this or die miserable, alone and unfulfilled.
-Zach gives the Demo 4 out of 5-

Tommyknocker Jack Whacker Wheat Ale

 Tommyknocker brewery was a stand out at the Mississippi Coast Beerfest. I took a special note of their various tastings there and was excited to review them formally. Unfortunately I have not been able to find their craft offerings in Tennessee, so on a recent trip to Alabama we found the Jack Whacker. I have to say I love the name, reminds me of what an old mountain man would use as a derogatory comment to someone he was displeased with. I also must confess this unfiltered wheat ale initially is a refreshing enjoyable brew. The light fluffy head left a nice lacing as it went down the glass. My initial taste was nice with the lemon grass backdrop, but as I drank I tired of this strong lemon flavor. Earthy flavors follow the lemon that seemed to rest on the back of my tongue. I felt overpowered by these flavors and lost the other nuances that I might have otherwise discovered. Do not quickly dismiss this beer though, for if your habit is to add citrus to your wheat ales it is already there for you. Maybe I'm being a little critical but that's why I'm called a critic!
Matt gives this well named brew 2.5 out of 5

I have to agree with Matt about the initial burst of refreshment when you first start drinking this ale. It is as witbiers should be, unfiltered. There is a strong, sweet scent to the nose as well as a sweet note to the backside of each swallow. I wonder if the yeast weren't inhibited to keep them from devouring all the sugars in this brew. This is only conjecture, but I could see the brewers coming to this decision to counter the natural bitterness of the wheat and the added intense bitter of the lemon grass. I am not generally for or against adding to a beer to achieve a certain flavor as I see this as the artistic expression of the brewer. I do however admire the skill level of brewers who manage to achieve these flavors through skillful manipulation of the yeast rather than resorting to additives. I personally found this beer to be refreshing and enjoyable during my consumption of it. My good friend Matt is not overly fond of sweet beers and if you feel similarly, this is not a brew for you. As the brew warmed I denoted an almost candied tone to the nose and as I continually swirled the yeast laden remnants in my glass, detected faint phenolic nuances. if you pick up a skunky wet-grass tone in hefeweizens, again this beer may not be for you, but as far as that goes, your nose would have to be well trained to detect those faint signatures.Overall I enjoyed it and see this brew as a good way to get beer newbs to branch out in their taste. I will definitely drink this again.
-Zech gives the Jack Whacker 3.5 out of 5-

Yazoo Hefeweizen

Within this blog we have often spoken about hefeweizens and their various characteristics. This my friends is the penultimate hefeweizen. It is a superlative example of the student becoming the master. The fine folks at Yazoo brewing have taken a time honored and venerable German brew and recreated it here in America with love, artistry and exquisite attention to detail. The phenolic tones in the nose are so pure and unpolluted they truly allow you to experience the full glory of what a hefeweizen should be. A truly astounding brew and a must try. Make sure you swirl the last bit in the bottle to pour it into your glass to get the yeast.
-Zech gives Yazoo Hefeweizen a 6 out of 5- Ha!

I think Zech likes it. What do you think? I found many nuances in this hefeweizen that set it apart as it's own. First the unfiltered beer has a clean feel on your palate, giving you a full shot of flavors. The hops used in this give a cornucopia of flavors that you'll find yourself picking up on as it warms. One outstanding flavor I tasted was banana, no, they did not put banana in the beer. Many of these hefeweizens get a little oily for me, but this one only has a slight heaviness.That is the kind of chemistry that you can enjoy when trying this beer. I really like pairing various brews with certain foods and with this beer I found myself leaning toward something fresh and light, like a chicken salad with some dried cranberries and nuts. I think that if you have never tried a hefeweizen beer than you should start here. How could anyone not like this beer?
Matt gives this a 4 out of 5

Murphy's Red Ale

   This competent Irish-red style ale is actually produced in the Netherlands by the Heineken Brewing company under the supervision of Murphy's. Though there is nothing wrong with this arrangement, I am not impressed with this brew. It is slightly oily, which makes me think hops, which I don't feel belong in an Irish red (call me old fashioned) and though it finishes rather cleanly, it has faint bitter notes that linger. There is also a strong nose of barley to this brew which is not unpleasant, but stronger than I find appealing in a Irish red. 

-Zech gives Murphy's Red Ale a 2.5 out of 5-

I found the Murphy's a bit light for me, clean beer but not enough punch for an Irish Red. This would be good after mowing the yard or some other chores when you needed to wash down the dust. When purchasing this I was expecting a bit more. I do feel that it probably would be a good beer for those wanting to try something a little more, but once you get your taste-buds on some other products you may graduate from this quickly.

-Matt gives this a try it if your new to real beer 2.5 out of 5

Noche Buena Edicion Limitado

WARNING! DO NOT ADD LIME to this fantastic Mexican brew. It seems the habit of drinkers and servers of the offerings from our southern neighbor is to garnish with a slice of lime. That would be a terrible error as it would cause you to miss out on so many subtleties of flavor. More on that in a bit.
   The nose of this cerveza is strong with the odor of malted barley, which I imagine is where this brew gets its deep caramel color. The head is small, tight bubbles that don't linger. The mouthfeel is refreshing, cleansing the palate and hangs around just enough to deliver a pleasant aftertaste. The general impression is a balanced, not too bitter, not too sweet offering reminiscent of Dos Equis Amber, but upon further sampling, you will find a complex palette of flavors swirling in your mouth. I noticed that this beer already hints at lime, and during some of my mouthfuls, but not all, a gentle brush of mint, hence the warning at the outset of this review. All in all I am quite impressed with this Good Night Limited Edition and highly recommend it.
-Zech gives the Noche Buena 4 !Aye Carambas! out of 5-
P.S. - If you are ever in Memphis or Nashville and Hungry for good grub (I highly recommend the buffalo chicken pizza and garlic fries) and Thirsty for some micro brewed beer give Boscos a try. The Beer Lover's Restaurant.


I too was pleased exuberantly at this Dos Equis Product. It sat a little heavier than their Amber but was not heavy. I found that the darkness did not overshadow it with too much barley flavor, but as Zech brought out was refreshing and clean. After preparing this review I read Zech's and now need to try another, to look for more of those subtleties that he discussed. It's a tuff job but someone has to do it. Maybe I'll give you some more to chew on about this beer after I do more due diligence.  ;)  Oh and you must pair this with some mexican food of course! preferably some Tacos de Carne Asade with plenty of Pico De Gallo on the side.

Matt rates this with a very respectable 3.5 of 5

Magic Hat Vinyl Lager

This is another offering by Magic hat that is outstanding. The smooth as fresh cream mouthfeel combines with the sharp bite of carbonation in the back of the throat to make you go "Ahhh! That's good beer!" It has hints of citrus and caramel in the nose and a perfect balance of hop acidity. Not a heavy beer but there is no doubt that you are drinking full bodied goodness. Not some watered down lite beer guaranteed to make you pee. I like it a lot.

-Zech gives Magic Hat Vinyl lager seasonal  a 4 out of 5-

Yes  faithful readers Matt is still alive! I have been on hiatus from the beer reviews, but am back to give my angle on this Lager from Magic Hat Brewers. As I poured this beautiful reddish brown product of delightfulness, I soon realized that this was a quality production. Magic Hat has yet to let me down with an un-unique offer. The head dissipated rather quickly but the coffee like undertones were hitting me with every sip and as the beer warmed became a little stronger. The aftertaste had a slight hop hint, for those who are not into the hopped up beers this one is so slight you will not be bothered by it. I paired this with some tamales and truly enjoyed it better with the Mexican food than many of the beers produced for that purpose.

-Matt is enamored enough to give this a 4.5 out of 5

Big Muddy Pale Ale

Big Muddy Brewing Company out of Carbondale, Illinois is an emerging microbrewery that is swiftly becoming popular in the Southern Illinois wine country. Several pubs, restaurants and wineries in the Southern quarter of the state are starting to carry some of Big Muddy's product. This particular brew is very smooth and crisp with balanced hoppiness that doesn't overwhelm. There is a subtle hint of caramel, malty sweetness that allows you to really savor one of these when they are good and cold on a hot day. I also had the opportunity to sample the other brews made by Big Muddy, which unfortunately are not pictured here. If you are ever in the area of Carbondale or just enjoying the Southern Illinois Wine Trail (makes for a great weekend getaway & the wines are exquisite) make sure you sample the Big Muddy. You won't be disappointed.
-Zech gives Big Muddy Pale Ale 3.5 out of 5- 

Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale

 There are some hints of citrus in the nose of this barrel aged ale, but primarily you will smell bourbon. I am fond of this trend to age various beers in liquor barrels, but often the flavor of the liquor is overpowering. The bourbon flavor is quite strong in this case, but as it nears room temperature, you will notice some hints of caramel, indicative off the malts used during the brewing process. There is a sharp alcohol bite to this brew also a slight oiliness which makes me wonder if there are some hops in there. Though not outstanding, quite enjoyable.
-Zech gives this brew 3 out of 5-

Chimay Belgian Ale

 

 As you faithful readers know, part of this blog's purpose is to help you avoid potentially costly mistakes in your beer choices that could lighten your wallet and foul your mood.  This Chimay Belgian ale is one of those mistakes. I really enjoy belgian barley wines and high abv ales, so when I saw this offering at one of my favorite Jackson, TN restaurants, Picasso's, I thought "Oh, that will be nice." Wow. I could not have been more wrong. Imagine vodka mixed with water and stir in some wheat germ for flavor and Voila! Chimay ale. 

  And then you get to pay $9.00 US for a 12 ounce bottle. Doesn't that sound fun? Well, I didn't think so and I would warn you off this pretentious brew.

 -Zech gives Chimay Belgian Ale a disappointed 1 out of 5-

Napa Smith Lost Dog Red Ale

 If you have been following our blog, you might remember the Abita Jockamo IPA review. This product hailing from Napa, California is quite comparable to the Jockamo. I am not making light of this brew, and it does have distinguishing qualities. As you can see, the head is not very tight, is quite fluffy and doesn't last. This brew has an abv of 7.2%, which gives it a smooth, rich mouthfeel that cuts the hop oils quite nicely.
  I did enjoy this, and its flavor was somewhat reminiscent of a Killian's, with bittering hops added and overlayed by hints of caramel and citrus. This is most definitely a brew that has been expertly crafted. It is not at all pretentious, but is full bodied and makes a statement of quality when you drink it. The Napa Smith Brewery suggest pairing this brew with short ribs, hamburgers and garlic fries. I am salivating right now. I would probably only drink 1 or 2 of these in an evening, but I would savor every drop.
- Zech Gives the Lost Dog 3.5 pats out of 5-

Yazoo Brewing Pale Ale

  Yazoo's Pale Ale is a subtle and artistic take on the IPA. Thanks to the new Amarillo hop there is a delicate and slightly sweet citrus note to the nose. I could also pick up hints of malt which I found quite pleasant. Because the hops are so well balanced, the acidic oil content is low enough that you don't feel like you just swallowed a week cough syrup. There is the clean, crisp and dry hop finish without being harsh. The head doesn't linger too long and is not overly bitter. I am not generally a fan of IPA's, but this is a refreshing brew that I will definitely drink again.
 -Zech gives Yazoo Pale Ale 3.5 out of 5-

This is a clean your palate between dark beer offering. Very crisp and clean. I purchased this in a Yazoo 12 sampler and enjoyed it after a  Dos Perros. The clean flavor of this Pale Ale is definetly mild in comparison to the other Pale Ales you may be used to. I think that this is a good summer beer and would recommend this to those who are not ready for too much hop. On the other hand if you like the really hoppy brews you may be suprised at Yazoo's version. This would make a good outdoor barbeque beer.
-Matt Gives it a 3 of 5

Magic Hat #9 not quite Pale Ale

This offering from the Magic Hat brewery is another example of creativeness that I have come to enjoy about this Company. The beer pours in with a light amber color and leaves you a small white head That lingers through out the tour. The initial nose is earthy but as you will notice that will change over to a fruity mix, aahhhh nice! You will certainly find a sharpness on your tongue initially with a smooth finish. This concoction has strong peach overtones and all I can say is wow. Ales are so vast, each one having its own Chemistry. This #9 defines good chemistry, it will refresh and surprise you and leave you wanting to go for another round. Kudos to Magic Hat, I would recommend this to anyone.    - Matt gives the #9 Ale 4 out of a possible 5

 As beer reviewers, Matt and I try quite a few different beers, some of which don't end up on the blog as sometimes we feel that a brewers effort is not worth your trouble to read about. Then, at the absolute opposite end of the spectrum comes something like this. Magic Hat's No.9 is pure art. This "not quite pale ale" will thrill and surprise even the most jaded palate. As Matt mentioned, there is a subtle bite and then (as angels sing) the aroma of apple blossoms, gentle on a spring breeze, wafts cross your nostrils. There is the slightest hint of apple blossom honey thrown in the mix balanced as perfectly as a lone dandelion seed landing on your fingertip with delicate bittering hops. I am genuinely in awe of this ale and the genius behind it. As I drank it, it quite literally stirred my emotions, filling me with a tranquil and restful feeling. I do not joke about this. If you have stared in admiration and felt drawn into the artwork of Martin Johnson Heade, then your soul is already primed to appreciate this brew. I am humbled by the triumphant combination of clean mouthfeel, frothy head, and subtle flavors that have made No.9 such a joy to review. I promise you, pour this in your favorite nucleated glass, let it sit a minute as you close your eyes and picture sunrise over a storm tossed Atlantic, a sakura fubuki, or even your mother baking pie with the apples you picked that afternoon. Now swirl this amber gift in your glass as you lift it to your nose. Roll the liquid back and forth in your mouth before swallowing. Your worries are gone, the long day complete.
-Zech gives No.9 by Magic Hat a 5 out of 5-

Abita S.O.S.

This special offering from one of mine and Zech's beloved brewers, is quite distinct. As I poured this I noticed a white fluffy head with a unfiltered yellow beer. The nose had a classic pilsner aroma with light lemon undertones. As I partook I discovered the wheat malt stood out above the Pilsner malt, but not so much that it lost its balance. Yes definitely light lemon in the flavors also. The bittersweet flavors stay on your palate and melt away slowly enough for you to enjoy.
Abita has failed to dissatisfy with any of their beers so far. And you do your part for charity for each bottle of S.O.S. you purchase Abita will donate to the victims of the oil spill in the Gulf. This is a limited time beer so get yours soon if you'd like to give it a try.      - Matt rates it with 3 out of 5

What do ya'll think? Leave a comment and tell us your favorite!


 Abita pulled no punches with this weizen pils. It is unfiltered, 7% abv, refreshing goodness. There is a strong citrus nose and an incredibly fluffy head. You will probably have to find this in a liquor store, at least in TN because of the high abv.
    The Sterling and German Perle hops used in this pils balance the sweet of the pilsner and wheat malts perfectly, so that the flavor dances the knife edge between sweet and bitter and at the same time the two opposing sensations are simultaneously noticeable. When I experience this in a brew, it highlights, in my mind at least, the artistry of the brewmasters involved.  The mouthfeel is lighter than most hopped beers and leaves a cool, refreshing feeling on your palate. This would make an excellent brew to cleanse the palate after a heavy meal. I sincerely hope Abita brings this brew back and makes it a regular.
-Zech gives Abita S.O.S. a 3.5 out of 5-

P.S. - Did you notice the Hurricane lamp in the photo?

Terrapin Hop Karma

 

  Looks like a brown ale doesn't it? Well you would be half right. Terrapin Beer Co. out of Athens, Georgia (home of REM by the way) has successfully created a brew that is the love child of an IPA and a malty Brown ale. And it is good. Holy Monkeys it is good. There is a distinct malt smell of caramel and as the beer warms it actually seemed to me as if I had a brown ale and an IPA on my tongue at the same time. If you enjoy either of these styles of beer, you will probably love this stuff. The light khaki head is fluffy and aromatic and its color was just slightly lighter than a traditional brown, this being the only clue as to its mixed ancestry. the mouthfeel is medium bodied leaving a pleasant IPA aftertaste that  is smoothed out by the malt sugars. My only complaint about this brew is that I don't have 5 more to...uh, help me review it better. I will definitely be serving this to my friends who enjoy IPAs. I have to also mention I loved the way the beer roils when poured into the glass. Makes me think of Guinness' little illegitimate brother. Buy This. You Won't Be Sorry.

 -Zech gives the Hop Karma a 4.5 out of 5-

My First intro to an IPA was several years ago and I can't recall the brand but I couldn't get past the dry hoppy flavors and the dry aftertaste, That was then this is now. Maybe it was bad beer I first tried or my tastes have become more in tune, who knows. I still think the average light lager beer drinker will not be ready for it. But, I digress, this Brown IPA could be one you might want to start with. The hops pop on your tongue with that classic dry aftertaste, but does not leave that aftertaste sticking around like you've been accustomed to with most IPA's. With the inclusion of a wee bit of sweetness, the Hop Karma truly will surprise you. Very nice!            -Matt gives it a 4 of 5

Abita Pecan Harvest Ale

Abita was a large contributor at the Beer fest, and I thoroughly enjoyed they're offerings there. They have done an excellent job with their pecan harvest. Made from Louisiana picked pecans, the initial aroma is earthy with a nutty overtone (surprise, surprise). The head goes away quickly, but you almost want it out of the way so you can get to the beer. You definitely taste the pecans but with alot of malty goodness soaking around it, almost a coffee like malt. Not alot of hoppy bitterness or bite, but undoubtedly there is a smidgeon of hop flavor that hangs on the tip of your tongue reminding you its an Ale.This to me should be tried by any newbie craft beer drinker who would like the Ale experience without the bite but with plenty of flavor.                                     Matt gives The Abita 4 out 5


 Matt is so right on this one. Give this stuff to your friends who are just starting to try new beers and they will like it. When I first saw that Abita had a pecan ale, I thought that they were just trying to compete with Lazy Magnolia's Southern Pecan, but I was wrong. This brew stands on its own, and though it is possible that the Southern Pecan inspired this idea, they went a whole different direction. This brew almost has some similarities to a Scottish Brown ale with its malty smoothness and low bitterness. It is not nearly as sweet as say, Innis & Gunn, but it also is not so bitter as to alienate the new comer. In the Jackson, TN area you can get this at the gas station with the Church's Fried chicken in it at the corner of Whitehall & North Parkway. Enjoy.
 -Zech gives Abita Pecan Harvest 4 out of 5-

Point Brewery Horizon Wheat

 

  Just gaze in loving awe at the smooth golden goodness that is the Point Brewery Horizon Wheat. This, my friends is Unfiltered Wheat Ale done right and as such I would recommend that your hard earned cash go towards this rather than Bud Light Golden Wheat.

  As you can see, this brew has a light and white fluffy head. There are readily recognizable but not overpowering citrus notes in the nose. There are no orange peels in this brew. Those scents come from the balances of malts, hops and American ale yeast. This is my second time reviewing a product from Stevens Point, Wisconsin and these folks definitely impress. As the beer warms the bitter notes become less pronounced and the malts start to to stand out even more.  It has a bitterness rating of 10 IBU's (International Bittering Units) which is just enough to let you know that you are drinking a grown-ups beer. Since this is the real thing, make sure you swirl the sediment in the bottle with the last couple of ounces and pour that into your glass. Here is what the folks at Point had to say about this brew and it was just so poetic I just had to copy it here for you.

  "Point Horizon Wheat is an alluring combination of spring wheat and specialty malts along with Yakima hops and American ale yeast.  This lively and light, perfectly balanced wheat beer pours cloudy and finishes with a white creamy head.  The glowing golden hue may help you visualize the start of a new day as early morning rays of sunshine bounce across the horizon of an American wheat field."

  It's just so beautiful...sniff...brings a tear to my eye.

  -Zech gives Point Brewery Horizon Wheat a 3.5 out of 5-

Stevens Point Brewery has impressed me further with this delightful product. Everything Zech said above I could parrot, fruity smell, fluffy white head, golden orangeish color, balanced flavors between malts hops and yeast, blah blah blah (not you Zech just the repetition I could do). What I really appreciated about this beer is what I've seen from this brewer with everything I have tried, really well done beer that gives you a cannot miss when forking over the dough to purchase a real beer on payday. I am also a comfort food guy, no doubt you have noticed this by the pairings of food and beer I recommend, and one of my favorites is a good hot wing. One beer that I tend to go with when partaking of the small chicken limbs is a wheat beer. This beer would absolutely go well with a spicy wing. So do not despair when your ready to try a Stevens Point Brewery Horizon Wheat you will not be wasting your dollars. 

-Matt gives it a 4 of 5

Magic Hat Circus Boy "The Hefeweizen"

 Oh golden delicious refreshingness, thou art called Circus Boy.
 There can be no doubt that the Magic Hat brewery loves beer. This refreshing hefeweizen exhibits a fine balance between sweet and bitter. The mouthfeel is only slightly oily, and a subtle bitterness lingers around your molars, while honeyed wheat goodness dances on your tongue. The head is thick and fluffy and lingers till Circus Boy starts to warm up. An excellent example of a brewery experimenting while remaining within the confines of a particular style of beer. The nose smells of fresh bread but as it warms does have hints of barnyard skunkiness. Overall very enjoyable. Would recommend that this is NOT a brew for those just venturing forth.
  -Zech gives Circus Boy a 3 out of 5-

  I found a little different feel for this beer than Zech, which is why we decided to give a double perspective on this blog. I found this to have a classic hefe nose. But as the flavors rolled on to my tongue I found a surprise citrus, especially a grapefruit start. The finish reminds me of a dry white wine without the heaviness. This was much lighter, taste wise, than other hefeweizen's I've tried. A good refreshing beer.
   The beer has a golden color with a cloudy clarity. Which reminds me of a perfectly good beer someone squeezed a lime into. If you enjoy citrus in your beer this to me is the overtone of this product. This brew would go well with a island type meal like some fish or shishkebobs.
Matt gives this a 3.5 of 5

Highland Brewing Company Black Mocha Stout

  Okay, NO I was not drinking and driving, I just happened to be in my vehicle while enjoying a brew. What really can I say about this beer? I like it and find all the offerings by Highland Brewing Company, located in Asheville, NC (a beautiful town, you should visit) to be quality products crafted with love.
  However, if you have ever had Guinness on draft then you are familiar with this brew, though I must say that this bottled Guinness clone is much tastier than the bottled stuff from Dublin, which, though I love Guinness, is rather terrible.
 It pours slightly thinner than Guinness, has a thinnish tan head, (a disappointment) and has chocolate and coffee tones. Does finish rather clean but is quite filling. Doesn't roil in the glass as much as a black ale should. This is not quite as good as McSorley's Black Irish Lager, but will definitely do in a pinch.
  Give it a try and see for yourself.
- Zech gives Highland Brewing Company Black Mocha Stout a 3 out of 5 -

Spaten Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse Dunkel

         

  Well, the good news first. If you like dunkel hefeweissbiers, this stuff is great. It has for some people less of a skunky, wet-grass undertone than Weihenstephaner's Hefeweissbier Dunkel, and the phenol and annyl acetate tones are slightly more pronounced (the clove and banana smells). It goes down smooth, is very refreshing, isn't too filling and pairs nicely with pork or beef. Has a tingly mouthfeel and finishes clean due to the low hop oil content. Is not so spicy that you couldn't introduce a friend to the glories of dark, unfiltered German wheat beers via this brew, though before you do that, please read the rest of the post.

  Now the bad news. Please forgive me, I did not know and in my ignorance I have sinned. Spaten Franziskaner is owned by InBev, the Multinational Mega-Conglomerate that owns Anheuser-Busch. I will not rant or rage with spittle and bared teeth in this particular post about the evils of these corporations, but I will lament that InBev got some of my hard earned cash. However, I will rate this beer objectively. But, please if you decide to try a Dunkel Hefeweissbier or Dunkel Hefeweizen, give a brand like Weihenstephaner a try.

   -Zach gives this a 4 out of 5-

After watching the documentary Beer Wars, which I highly recommend for anyone who wants to expand themselves to craft brews, I made a vow not to spend my hard earned dollars on Anheiser-Busch or their conglomerates products. So as I have set my standards, I cannot review this beer. That being  said my standards also are "I will not ever turn away a free beer". So if someone would like my opinion on this beer, set me one up, and I'll give you an objective, unbiased review. -Matt

Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dark

They claim fame to being the worlds oldest brewery. This German brewed beer makes you stop take another look and try again! Wow what a group of flavors come from this dark heffeweissen. The dark fluffy head definitely passes the 2 finger rule, and sticks there with you throughout the journey. The flavors begin with a sweetness I can only describe to you as fresh picked sweet corn right out of the husk, no doubt the wheat standing out. Then the finish stays around on the back of your tongue and in your throat. As with most real beers the flavors are more distinct as it warms. I wouldn't recommend this to a newbie beer drinker trying to expand their horizons. One pint will do you.  You could enjoy a bowl of white beans and cornbread, drink this beer and your life would be completed.  Matt gives this 3.5 out of 5

  I have a new love and thy name is Dunkel Hefeweissbier. The aroma and flavor is so intoxicating, so rich and so unlike anything else that these dark, top fermented, unfiltered wheat beers invented in Germany can only be compared to each other. The clove flavor rolls across your palate very pleasantly. If you feel a slight tingle in your lips or the roof of your mouth when drinking this brew, that only means you have become sensitized to aromatic hydrocarbons. (hydrocarbons with a benzene ring attached) Eugenol or in the case of a weissbier, 4-vinyl guaiacol, the chemical responsible for the clove-like smell, is a phenylpropanoid containing hydroxybenzene (these properties of this organic compound relate it to aromatic hydrocarbons) and is one of several phenols produced by the yeast.
   But Fear Not Intrepid Readers! The levels of phenols are so low that you would have to consume hundreds of cases of this beer over a lifetime to increase your risk of brain cancer.
  Now that the science crap is out of the way, let me say that I love this beer. (Did I already say that?) I highly recommend it to our adventurous readers. The Germans enjoy this brew with kielbasa and even more so with weisswurst, otherwise known as white sausage, which demonstrates Matt's genius at food pairing because both of those are ridiculously good with white beans.
  Zach gives Weihenstephaner  Hefeweissbier Dunkel a 4 out of 5

Abita Jockamo IPA

 

    Yep, that is my Bass Amp/ beer stand underneath the brew again. On the way to the movies Friday night my wife and I stopped by a new Liquor store in Jackson just to browse and I stumbled upon this little six pack of ambrosia called Abita Jockamo IPA. You may recognize the Abita name as a Louisiana brewer that Matt & I were impressed with at the Biloxi BeerFest. 

    I don't think Matt & I have reviewed an IPA yet, so when the caramelly, hoppy goodness of this 6.5% abv ale hit my palate I knew I would have to sing its praises. This is an incredible India Pale Ale. 

   The foam is tan as you would expect, and the hop oils insure that the bubbles are small & densely packed in a head that lingers long after it is poured. The head itself taste bitter and is reminiscent of a british bitter, similar to Boddington's. 

   The color is a gorgeous caramel amber and in my Samuel Adams nucleated glass the light seems to sparkle and dance through this ale. Upon initial taste, there is the distinctive bite of hop-intensive brews, but so well balanced as not to overwhelm. I wonder if noble hops were used in this recipe, or some other aroma hop as I am quick to pick up on high alpha acid concentrations in bittering hops. The mouthfeel is influenced by sufficient amounts of oil from the hops for the flavor to linger just long enough for you to savor the subtle yet amazing caramel flavor that ghost across your taste buds as this beer warms. This is not a sweet beer, but the caramel flavor adds such depth to its character that I was genuinely impressed. As the beer warms, you can even smell the caramel wafting towards your nostrils.

   My genuine heartfelt thanks to the people at Abita for making this splendiferous (Ha! take that spellcheck) and glorious concoction. 

                I feel no choice but to give this a 5 out of 5 and to add that trying this ale should be on EVERY true beer drinkers bucket list. 

 

    This IPA also was an amazement to me for as I poured it I discovered a light, super fluffy head that left like an airplanes vapor trail on a breezy day. Yet as I drank it I found that with every sip it shook up some bubbles that tickle the flavors in your mouth and give you an array of flavor that you will not find in many India Pale Ales. The initial aroma gave me a classic beer smell, but the flavors did not match. The malt and hops are carefully matched to create a pleasant tingly start and finish and leave you a satisfying aftertaste. Not usually a huge IPA fan Abita has won me over. I tried pairing this with a grilled chicken breast with a tomato chutney, and it was amazing. give it a try. Matt gives 4 out of 5

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

This Stout is touted in England and no doubt has a good following here as well. The light brown head is very aromatic but dissipates quickly. This beer will give you a hop aroma with a hint of cocoa to the nose. The start of your first swallow gives you a nutty sweet beginning with a smooth yet bittersweet finish. This dark reddish beer warms nicely as the flavors will stand on their own. This is not too thick for a stout lingering just long enough, like a relative that you haven't seen for awhile but only stays a long weekend, keeps you happy instead of an overstayed guest on your palate, leaving you wanting more. They call this the celebrated oatmeal stout, and it should be. Coming from the oldest brewery in Tadcaster, England has given them time to perfect their abilities to craft an outstanding stout. This one was one of my favorites from the Top of The Hops festival.          Matt gives this 4.5 out of 5

     
    If you read this blog, you probably like dark beer, so, check your wallet and as soon as you are done reading this review, go get yourself a bottle of Samuel Smith's Oatmeal Stout. The weight of this brew is medium. It isn't too light, but it won't leave your tastebuds wore out and your stomach bloated. The oatmeal gives a certain smoothness to this ale that reminds me of a dessert. The nose is much sweeter than the actual flavor, which is so balanced that it is sure to please individuals on both sides of the sweet/bitter line.
   This is a good brew for those consumers looking for something dark and rich, but don't want a Guinness clone. I highly recommend it, and not to step on Matt's turf, it is wonderful with a medium rare porterhouse if you drink it with dinner yet it also pairs nicely with virtually any chocolate if you have it with dessert. So what are you waiting for? Go get some of this stuff.
   Zach gives Samuel Smith's Oatmeal Stout a 4.5 out of 5


     

Yazoo Brewing Company, Nashville TN

   Well, what a day it has been! Matt & I, accompanied by a guest reviewer, Warren, rode over to Nashville in search of some Tennessee brewed craft beer and wow! We were not disappointed.
    We would like to give a huge Thank You to all the folks at Yazoo Brewing company and particularly to Neil for being a gracious host and taking time out of his busy schedule to show us around and let us try the brews.
    If you are ever in Nashville, TN make sure you stop by Frugal MacDoogal's and pick up a six pack or two of Yazoo's love in a bottle. The Yazoo taproom opens @ 4 pm during the week and 2 pm on Saturdays and tours are available on Saturdays as well. You can find these great folks at 910 Division Street and here is their website  www.yazoobrew.com.  Definitely check them out.
  We got to sample Hop Project #37 which was brewed with Sorachi Ace hops. This brew had a subtle bite of hops, (a love nip really) and then settles on your tongue smooth as gold. This being a Hop Project brew, it may end up being a once in a lifetime experience, and I will miss not having more of it in my life.
   Next we tried the Onward Stout and the the Rye Porter, both of which are surprising in their subtle blends of sweetness and bitter. The rich chocolate tones of the stout soothed me while the Rye Porter was deliciously light.
  The Pale Ale cleanses your palate very nicely so that the flavors of what you have been drinking will not interfere with what you will be drinking.
   I must say that the absolute stand-out star for me was the Yazoo Hefweizen. Through the magic of chemistry and years of experience brewing, a light, crisp ale smelling of bananas and citrus has been created. There are no bananas or citrus in this brew. The mind boggling, heart thumping flavor is achieved through delicate balances of the hops. A very loud BRAVO!  to Yazoo for this beer that made a great day even better. Enjoy the pictures below, but even better, get yourself to Nashville and give these folks a visit. And remember to do your part to support craft brewers.
  Zach gives Yazoo Brewing Company a 5 out of 5.

I too enjoyed the brewery immensely. Neil made us feel like we were v.i.p.'s and gave us a real feel for what the craft breweries are going thru against the giant conglomerates of the beer world. We are determined even more to make others appreciate the love, heart and soul that goes into the beers like Yazoo puts in their bottles. I also enjoyed the samples we tried and was amazed by the goodness of each and every one. I would like to do an in depth review of these for your reading pleasures but until then I can say The Dos Perros impressed me, Again. and the Sly Rye Porter was truly another stand out. Please give thought to giving these guys your patronage the next time you purchase a REAL beer! Matt says 5 of 5

Samuel Adams Cream Stout

This beer pours so dark that you have to hold the glass to a light to see through it. The Khaki colored head lingers like a tan cloud hanging over a moonless dark night in spring. Jim Koch's signature on the neck indicates pride in this product, and well they should have it, it is quality. The chocolate and caramel flavors are distinct especially at the finish, even the roasted barley stands out. So smooth is this brew that you could consume one quickly, but do not be overcome by the urge, because the flavors will layer on your tongue as it warms. The carbonation seems to disappear quickly but it still delights your palate as you drink, even without it. Pair this with a smoked brisket and some roasted vegetables and your day will get better almost immediately. Was a little sweet for me so Matt gives this 4 out of a possible 5.


  Dang Matt, I thought waxing poetic about the brews was my job and here you have gone and completely upstaged me. Bravo my friend, Bravo. Where was  I going with that? Oh yeah something about beer...
  Matt really nailed this one in my estimation. There is the suggestion of charcoal in the nose (this is a good thing) along with chocolate. There is a subtle initial bite of bitterness, and then the sweet slides in on you. The sweet is not overly done and is necessary, as this is truthfully a milk stout. I would recommend this ale to those who have already taken their first steps into the wider world of beers, but are still testing the waters.
   Overall this is an excellent brew and I tip my hat to Jim Koch. One thing I particularly appreciate is that the hop balance is so refined that while you can enjoy the distinctive flavor of  Humulus lupulus (I am showing off...impressed yet? Betcha didn't know hops are in the Cannabaceae family {marijuana}) the alpha acid level is kept low enough that I didn't feel the enamel being stripped from my teeth, as I often do with many IPA's. Since the bottle doesn't say anything beyond "hand-selected English Hops" I wonder whether the Fuggle or East Kent Goldings hops were used, as these tend to have a more balanced acid profile.  (picture Zach looking bemused)
  So, in short with all that rambling useless data I just dropped on you, I am saying this beer is not too sweet nor is it too bitter. Buy a six-pack and share it with those you love.
         Zach gives this a 4 out of 5

Point Brewery Amber Classic

  There is a distinct smell of white oak to the nose of this beautiful amber ale from Stevens Point, Wisconsin.
Though I don't recall them being featured at the beer fest in Biloxi, this beer is a standout in my mind from that weekend. There we were, minding our own business (which involves the purchasing, consuming and reviewing of beer and beer related products) in Rouses Grocery and Matt spies a Point Brewery Sampler pack. Which he purchased (God Bless him.) So here I am now reviewing this delightful brew.
      It is crisp and refreshing, white a light tan head that doesn't linger. It is very smooth and though it is not sweet, there is no hint of bitter. It reminds me almost of a quality American Lager. This would be an excellent brew to introduce someone to a wider range of experiences in the beer universe. The high level of carbonation gives a pleasant bite and the aftertaste is nearly identical to initial flavor. The mouthfeel is only slightly oily, just enough to coat your palate and allow the flavor to linger. Though aside from the oak aroma, it is not particularly outstanding, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this delicious craft beer.
                            Zech gives the Amber Classic  3.5 out of 5

This reddish brown offering from Stevens Point Brewery is a definite keeper, brewing beer since 1857 has helped them to perfect their craft. This would absolutely fall in the craft beer category but with that kind of history maybe its just beer done right. Theres nothing fancy done here, no fruit peels or onion skins or whatever else we are throwing in these days, just old fashion smooth dark beer that falls in the category of WooHoo! This is a nice smooth beer with a hint of sweet up front and a hint of bitter behind, which gives you the feel indicative of a quality product. Here I go again, offering you a pairing with food I like, but what can I say, I like beer and I like to eat. Anyway, what this would go well with is a Grilled Chicken salad with a quality oil and vinegar dressing.                              Matt gives this a respectible 3.5 almost 4 out of 5

Legbiter and St Patrick's Best by Strangford Lough

   

Well, just let me get started on these offerings from the Strangford Lough Brewing Company based out of 

Killyleagh, County Down, on the shores of the Strangford Lough. The ingredients for the brews sold here in the U.S.A. are grown in Ireland then shipped to the states to be brewed.
  First of all, I have never had anything that can compare to these two brews. They are completely unique concoctions and, as Matt said while we were drinking them, they can only be compared to each other.

 As I pour the Legbiter into my frosted pint glass that is courtesy of Samuel Adams, this brew dances in the glass in a way reminiscent of Guinness. Its color is a rich caramel brown and it has a thick light tan head that lingers long in the glass. I know i am stealing some of Matt's thunder with this next comment, but the nose is slightly sweet and as Matt helped me realize, if you close your eyes and sniff long and slow, there is a hint of cola. In a good way. Though the nose is sweet, the taste is a delicate balance of such that I am truly at a loss to describe.  If you have read some of my earlier post, you well know that at times I could almost be called verbose in my descriptions, but this Legbiter (named after King Magnus of Norway's sword) leaves me pleasantly befuddled. The brew is smooth and rolls across the palate. There is the slightest bite which makes to this ale, though there is no hops present in the flavor. The mouthfeel is pleasant and gentle and after you swallow it, my palate felt clean. Each swallow was such an enigmatic, yet joyful experience. The flavor sings and dances on your taste buds, light as dandelion seeds on a summer breeze and then disappears completely once you swallow it. The flavor intensifies and becomes more complex as the ale nears room temperature. This is truly an ale to be savored and passed on to the next generation. May the Strangford Lough Brewers have a long and storied career.
     Zech gives the Legbiter Ale     4.5 out of 5 stars

I have to say this is a tremendously smooth, enjoyable beer. Its easy to drink and will bring joy to any beer drinker. At first smell I thought ( as Zech said) Cola, but as I drank I realized this is NOT Cola, It did though have a smooth, sweet taste and after racking my brain for the flavor I could compare to, I came up with sassafras. Yes you may think Matt has said he doesn't like sweet beers and even my esteemed reviewer friend raised an eyebrow when I said... Ready... "I like it!". But in my defense so as to not sound wishy washy this beer smells sweeter than it tastes, and the rest of the flavors of this Ale make it a delight. I also found the name very cool. How can you not like a beer named after a sword? I also felt the need to pair this Ale with a nice Porterhouse and a baked sweet potato with lots of butter and Cinnamon, and look forward to doing so. Overall this is a must try.        Matt gives Legbiter 4 out of 5



 Now for my thoughts on the St. Patrick's Best Ale. It pours in an energetic froth that quickly clears, leaving a medium bodied light tan head. This ale has a reddish tint as light shines through it. Its characteristics are somewhat similar to Legbiter, but there is an added hint of caramelized malted grain. It is more bitter on the initial flavor than Legbiter, but still no hint of hops. It is full bodied and rich though not so thick as to be unpleasant. It has a smooth and sweet aftertaste. As I said in my review of Legbiter, this ale can only be compared to its cousin. It is not the same as the Legbiter, but simply has similar qualities to the flavor. If you try this one first, you may very well prefer it. I think that the SLBC (Strangford Lough Brewing Company) has captured flavors with these ales that are so unique that they will rock your knowledge of beer to its very core. I did try this brew after the Legbiter, and I feel that that action prejudiced me. I did prefer the Legbiter, but I feel that is only because I tried it first. Definitely give this a go if you run across it, and if you happen to be in or near Gulfport, Mississippi, USA you can find both of these on tap at Rooney's Irish Pub, 1316 27th Avenue.
    Zech gives St Patrick's Best 3.5 out of 5 stars

St Patrick's Best Ale. A similar product, Yes. If you were to drink these on separate occasions you may even confuse the two, but the malted barley is more distinct in this Ale. I felt the bite of this one and the head was lighter and didn't seem to linger near as long, but also I think Zech was right when he said whichever of the two you tried first may be the one you favor. I truly favor this beer. I actually agree with Strangford Lough Brewing when they call this their Best Ale. It is though not like any Ale Ive ever tried which made me ask, What the Ale?
Matt Rates this a 4.5 out of 5    
   

We're Back!

We made it back from the Beerfest and have some great brews for you to try. Me and Zech want to give you a review on each and everyone, but we are going to have to pace ourselves. I wanted to post some pics of the Beerfest to give you an idea of the mountainous task ahead of us. Good reviews take time to do properly, but I think we're up to the challenge. I'll give you a few of my faves to get your juices flowing: Turbodog by Abita Brewing, Laughing Skull by Atlanta Brewing, Jefferson Stout by Lazy Magnolia, Dead Guy Ale by Rogue Ales, Oatmeal Stout by Samuel Smith Brewery, Legbiter by Strangford Lough  Brewing, Dos Perros Ale by Yazoo Brewing. Thats just my standouts I have a list much longer of beers that are amazing. So stay tuned!

Top of the hops BeerFest in Biloxi!!!

Hey Faithful Readers!
Matt, myself and our wives are headed this weekend for the Top of the Hops Beerfest in Biloxi, MS sponsored by none other than the beloved Lazy Magnolia Brewery. We will hopefully come back with lots of reviews to entertain, warn away, and maybe even encourage you to try something new. This Blessed event takes place February 19 2011 so look for new reviews coming in the following weeks.

Zech

Lazy Magnolia Indian Summer

Wow! Holy Monkeys in a Walnut Tree, this beer is good!
     This is my second time reviewing one of the products from the Lazy Magnolia Brewery and I love it. Sunshine and love pour out of this bottle while visions of Ole Miss girls in daisy dukes dance before your eyes. You can smell late September, early October in this brew, and its flavor rolls across your tongue like a ride on a Sunday afternoon down Highway 90 in your grandfathers convertible with the top down and your arm around your girl. (My grandfather never had a convertible. I am trying to describe a feeling here people.)

  You are just going to have to try this offering from the Kiln, Mississippi brewery. If the description in the previous paragraph did not stir your interest just a little, why are you reading this?

             Duh!!! Zech gives this one 5 outta 5 WooHoo!!! (Amen)

Lazy Magnolia does it again! The Indian Summer Spiced Ale hit it out of the park. Those people down in Kiln, MS must really love their job because they're doing it right. I have to say I'm not a fan of candied brews and at first look I thought this was going to be one. I was wrong. ( don't tell my wife I admitted that.) It does have a bit of sweetness but not overpowering so and the mixture of flavors... My kudo's to the brewmaster on that concoction. I give this my try it you'll like it review.              Matt gives it a 4 out of a possible 5

Covington BrewHouse Bayou Bock

 A bock beer is either a beer brewed near or in Einbeck, Germany or a beer brewed in the fall, aged through the winter, so as to be consumed the following spring. Which means that labeling your product a "Bock" tells nothing of the ingredients, flavor, abv, or brewing process.
    Having said that, I was somewhat dismissive of this beer when I first looked at the bottle, but since I am always ready to take one for the team, I drank it anyway.
    A beautiful, white fluffy head floats on a golden lake reminiscent of sunlight. Yep, it looks like Budweiser (a pox on their house) and tastes like what Budweiser would taste like if the brewers at that mega-conglomerate purveyor of colored water gave a set of flying squirrel balls about you, the consumer.
   I may have ranted there for a moment. Your forbearance, please. If you are reading this blog, there is a considerable liklihood that you don't care about Budweiser, and therefore I applaud you.
     This beer is wonderful. It is what you fantasize about while working outdoors in the heat of the summer. So I forgive the ostentatiousness of calling this brew a bock, which it may be.
   It stirred love in my heart for the individuals who poured their hearts into crafting this concotion that will definitly be on my summer drinking list. Give this one a try for sure.
                                               Zech says 4 out of 5 stars

Brewed in the same town as the name on the label, Covington has a good thing going here. I have found as a rule if they have written Bock on the label, I can come to expect a smooth full bodied beer, and this one is no differant. I was very pleased with the beer from top to bottom. If your looking for it on the shelf look for the dark red label with the new Orleans Saints logo on the side.( I know it's really not only their logo but is a french cross or something.) This beer had a touch of tart while drinking, would go well with something citrus. Overall I still give it good marks and recommend it if you see it on the shelf.     Matt gives 3 out of 5