What Are Friends For?

Really though, what are friends for if they don't share good beer? Fortunately, I have great friends! One of my best friends recently moved to his wife's homestate of Virginia. One of the craft brews he found in stores there was this Tumwater Porter put out by Washington's own Fish Brewing Company.

Now I know this isn't a Virginia brew, but I haven't seen them here locally to me in TN. I have to say, this is a pretty darn good porter. Medium body, yet full of flavor. It has seven different malt varieties, including cocoa. That explains why it has such a rich chocolatey, creamy profile. Also, pleasantly nutty without being too much. It is very balanced. It ends you off with a smooth, dry finish. 

It's a very drinkable and full of complexities. Even though I prefer a heavier porter, or even a stout, I'd drink this one again. I really enjoyed it and if you're a porter fan, you will too. If you have these at your local market, pick up a case before you leave.

Taylor gives this one a 3.5 out of 5.

For the Tennessee Natives

Those who know Nashville know that craft beer is taken in all seriousness. There are a few greats that people worldwide know all too well. Yet there is one great TN brewer who has escaped my radar, until now.

My father-in-law (owner/operator of popular Nashville food truck, Funk Seoul Brother) commandeered this locally longed for brew. It's so good, that the taproom supposedly had a line of 350+ people trying to snag a case of this limited release Double IPA. I guess my father-in-law likes me okay enough to gift me a can of this "Nashville Gold". Anyway... here it is.

Bearded Iris Brewing employs Old World fermentation techniques mixed with modern innovation to "bring you a beer that's as skillfully designed and delightfully unique as the flower for which it's named".

Their Mood Ring Double IPA definitely fits that bill!

It is brewed with raspberries, for which I owe the ruby red color to. Then it's accompanied by a hint of vanilla and some lactose, as well as some hops common to an IPA. It has an excellent fruity flavor profile, and is very smooth. Although the fruit flavor is somewhat upfront, it does not come close to "wine cooler status". It is a somewhat tart raspberry hint that compliments the bitter hop quite well. 

Overall it is an excellent Double IPA, and I can understand why the Tennessee locals desire it so much upon it's release. I do personally prefer some other IPA's due to my liking for less "fruit forward" brews. At any rate, however, if you ever have the means to get in line at the taproom, do it!

Oh, and don't worry, this beer is on their list of recurring releases.. so you'll have your chance.

All things considered, Taylor gives this flower a whopping 4 out of 5.