NanoBryg rss syndication » Hop Talk » June 2009

Feeds

6984 items (6984 unread) in 17 feeds

Breweries (1272 unread)

• Mikkel(ler)'s Blog (98 unread)
• GourmetBryggeriet (121 unread)
• Nyt fra Ølakademiet (1053 unread)

Bloggers (4259 unread)

• Hop Talk (1062 unread)
• Knut Albert's beer blog (852 unread)
• Hail the Ale! Beer Blog (102 unread)
• Pfiff! (165 unread)
• Hedonist Beer Jive (425 unread)
• Beer of the Trip! (25 unread)
• The Beer Tourist (32 unread)
• For The Love Of Beer (105 unread)
• Portland Beer Blog (93 unread)
• A Good Beer Blog (1398 unread)

Craftbrewers (1453 unread)

• Larsblog (68 unread)
• Dyrehavegaardsb (70 unread)
• The Champagne of Blogs (166 unread)
• The Brew Site (1149 unread)

Hop Talk (46 unread)

• 

  Hook & Ladder Lighter

  Posted: June 30th, 2009, 4:01am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Hook & Ladder Lighter

  Beer-a-Day #180

  Hook & Ladder Lighter™ is the right choice when you desire a flavorful beer with a “lighter” body.

  This is one of my wife’s favorites. So much so that since it’s the only one in the house, I’ll be lucky to get a couple of healthy quaffs before it “mysteriously” disappears.

  Pale gold with a white head. Aroma is a bit fruity, even more so in the taste. It is light. They say 3.2% ABV and only 94 calories in each 12 oz. serving.

  Hook & Ladder Brewing Company

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/29/hook-ladder-lighter/';

  
  

  
• 

  One Thousand Articles

  Posted: June 29th, 2009, 3:44pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  One Thousand Articles

  Wow!

  Would you believe we’ve reached 1,000 articles here on Hop Talk? We hit the milestone with Beer-a-Day #179: Hoegaarden. It took us a little less than three years to get here from Ron’s first post back in July, 2006. (Qualified? Check.)

  Did I expect to reach this milestone? I’m not sure. Frankly, I don’t think I was sure we’d get through the first year. I guess I’m just too stubborn to give up.

  In any event, I’ve had a great time doing this and am looking forward to the next several thousand.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/29/one-thousand-articles/';

  
  

  
• 

  Hoegaarden

  Posted: June 29th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Hoegaarden

  Beer-a-Day #179

  Is it just me, or is everyone and his brother rolling out wheat beers? Well, this one bills itself as “the original Belgian White beer” and it’s darn hot outside. I am in need of something refreshing.

  Very pale and hazy. Lots of spice in the aroma: coriander, orange peel, something floral. Flavor is citrusy and “soft”. Very refreshing.

  Hoegaarden

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/28/hoegaarden/';

  
  

  
• 

  Sam Adams Custom Made Glass

  Posted: June 28th, 2009, 6:33pm CEST by Ron

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Sam Adams Custom Made Glass

  Beer pouring and tasting basics reminds me of the Sam Adams laser etched pint glass for the perfect pint. Here’s a hint of what goes into making that glass.

  [www.youtube.com]

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/28/sam-adams-custom-made-glass/';

  
  

  
• 

  Brewer’s Alley 1634 Ale

  Posted: June 28th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Brewer’s Alley 1634 Ale

  Beer-a-Day #178

  My wife’s dear friend Ellen took our kids to see a movie, leaving us with an hour and forty-five minutes to kill.

  So, of course we went to a brewpub.

  On tap was the new “1634 Ale”, brewed to celebrate the founding of the Maryland colony. From the press release:

  “1634 Ale” was created by Tom Flores, master brewer at Brewer’s Alley, following research of historic recipes and raw materials available in centuries past. “We used ingredients that would have been found in the austere conditions of early colonial Maryland,” said Flores of his rye-based ale recipe that also includes malted wheat, molasses and caraway. Flores says caramel and dark malts round out the flavor of the “lighter bodied ale.”Flores’ potable recreation has captured the attention of industry officials and the media alike who have sampled “1634 Ale” in the past month. “Early reports of the beer’s upcoming release were published in “Beverage Journal,” the Maryland / DC industry trade publication, as well as in the mass media and on beer blogs, – raising interest in the ale,” said Flores. Maryland State Governor, Martin O’Malley was among state officials who sampled the “1634 Ale” on Maryland Day, March 29, in Historic St. Mary’s City.

  Phil Bowers, president of Brewer’s Alley, Inc., says that he is proud that his brewery was called upon to create the beer but not surprised that beer was incorporated into the state celebration. “Fermented beverages such as beer and hard cider were something of a necessity in the New World, where drinkable water was scarce,” he said, particularly within the early- discovered Atlantic coastal regions, such as St. Mary’s City, where inland water was brackish.

  It certainly was interesting, with a number of unusual flavors, but none of them overpowering. I thought it was rather good.

  Update: Brewer’s Alley is also bottling the 1634 Ale. Look for it at your local retailer.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/27/brewers-alley-1634-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Hop Talk Kindle Edition

  Posted: June 27th, 2009, 3:51am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Hop Talk Kindle Edition

  Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that the Kindle is Amazon.com’s new extraordinarily popular e-book reader. (Or, as Amazon puts it, “Wireless Reading Device”.)

  Anyway, the folks at Amazon have seen fit to add Hop Talk as an available subscription for the Kindle. So, if you want the convenience of following Hop Talk on your “Wireless Reading Device” you can do so for the more-than-reasonable subscription price of $0.99 per month. If you’re not sure, there’s even a 14-day free trial on all Kindle blog subscriptions.

  Hop Talk (Kindle Edition)

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/26/hop-talk-kindle-edition/';

  
  

  
• 

  Rock Bottom Raccoon Red

  Posted: June 27th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Rock Bottom Raccoon Red

  Beer-a-Day #177

  My boss and I took a member of the server team out to celebrate some good cross-team collaboration. Where better than the local brewpub?

  I had some buffalo wings (pretty good, actually, for being so far from Buffalo) and washed them down with their Raccoon Red. Nice and malty, with just a bit of hops. It was good.

  Rock Bottom – Bethesda

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/26/rock-bottom-raccoon-red/';

  
  

  
• 

  Samuel Adams Imperial White

  Posted: June 26th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Samuel Adams Imperial White

  Beer-a-Day #176

  This is another in the Samuel Adams Imperial Series.

  Samuel Adams® Imperial White is a new perspective on the classic witbier style. Witbiers are normally light and refreshing with a fruity finish and we wanted to see how these characteristics would stand up when we amped up the recipe. We were totally blown away by the flavors that were created by this beer.

  This is not just a more intense version of our spring seasonal Samuel Adams® White Ale. Imperial White is a new recipe that stands on it own merits. In fact, it is more of a wine substitute than just another refreshing witbier. This is a beer that should be sipped and savored and you’ll be amazed at the flavors you’ll discover as the beer warms and opens up.

  Witbiers are not generally a favorite of mine, but this sounds intriguing.

  Medium amber and hazy; thick, off-white head. It smells like a wit, but much bigger. Big body. It reminds me of a doppelbock, honestly. Some alcohol heat.

  10.3% ABV. This will be my only beer of the evening, but I will thoroughly enjoy it.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/25/samuel-adams-imperial-white/';

  
  

  
• 

  Beer pouring and tasting basics

  Posted: June 25th, 2009, 4:02am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Beer pouring and tasting basics

  This will be fairly basic for some (most?) of you, but here’s a video of Dave McLean, owner and brewmaster of Magnolia Pub and Brewery, showing some folks how to pour and appreciate a beer.

  http://fora.tv/2009/06/15/The_Science_of_a_Good_Beer# Down_to_a_Science_The_Right_Way_to_Pour_and_Taste_a_Beer

  (via Geeks are Sexy)

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/24/beer-pouring-and-tasting-basics/';

  
  

  
• 

  Red White and Brew in Brunswick, MD – July 3, 2009

  Posted: June 25th, 2009, 3:43am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Red White and Brew in Brunswick, MD – July 3, 2009

  Sadly, I’ll be out of town that weekend. But if you’ll be in the Central Maryland area this may be of interest to you. Especially if you like small Maryland towns.

  

  • Event on Facebook
  • Brunswick Main Street web site

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/24/red-white-and-brew-in-brunswick-md-july-3-2009/';

  
  

  
• 

  Sam Adams LongShot – Double IPA

  Posted: June 25th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Sam Adams LongShot – Double IPA

  Beer-a-Day #175

  Sam Adams week continues with the last of the LongShot winners. Actually, this was a winner from 2007 that needed to wait until 2009 until Sam Adams could “source the ingredients needed to provide a true representation of his recipe.”

  I’m fine with having waited. A Double IPA is right up my alley.

  (Gee, I hop that’s yeast floating in the bottom of the bottle…)

  Hazy amber with a finger’s worth of head. Earthy, grassy, aroma; loads of hops. And then a boatload of hops in the flavor. Wow!

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/24/sam-adams-longshot-double-ipa/';

  
  

  
• 

  Sam Adams LongShot – Traditional Bock

  Posted: June 24th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Sam Adams LongShot – Traditional Bock

  Beer-a-Day #174

  Sam Adams week continues, with the second of the LongShot contest 2008 winners.

  Congratulations to Alex Drobshoff of California for being crowned the 2008 Samuel Adams® American Homebrew Contest™ National Champion! Alex’s Traditional Bock will appear in the LongShot® mix 6-pack beginning in April

  Golden brown with a thin layer of foam. Cherry and prune, with a bit of alcohol. Smooth, though, without a lot of alcohol in the taste. I like it.

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/23/sam-adams-longshot-traditional-bock/';

  
  

  
• 

  Sam Adams LongShot – Cranberry Wit

  Posted: June 23rd, 2009, 3:16am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Sam Adams LongShot – Cranberry Wit

  Beer-a-Day #173

  For the last several years, Samuel Adams has sponsored a homebrew contest where three lucky homebrewers get their winning recipes brewed, bottled, and marketed. I picked up a pack of the 2008 winners.

  Since I grabbed a bunch of other Sam Adams at the same time, I guess it’s the start of another Samuel Adams week.

  The third brew in the Longshot package will be a Cranberry Wit created by Carissa Sweigart, winner of the Samuel Adams employee homebrew competition. Carissa’s beer was chosen by over 1,111 beer lovers at the 2008 Great American Beer Festival™ from among the 3 employee homebrew finalist. Congratulations Carissa!

  Hazy yellow with a nice big white head. I can smell the cranberry but it’s subtle. They’re similarly subtle in the flavor, with a clean and refreshing taste. That’s very good. So good, in fact, that my wife has laid claim to the other bottle.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/22/sam-adams-longshot-cranberry-wit/';

  
  

  
• 

  Beer is bad for you?

  Posted: June 22nd, 2009, 9:26pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Beer is bad for you?

  
  see more Lolcats and funny pictures

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/22/beer-is-bad-for-you/';

  
  

  
• 

  Texas BBQ with Shiner Bock

  Posted: June 22nd, 2009, 11:27am CEST by Ron

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Texas BBQ with Shiner Bock

  I had the opportunity to visit Austin Texas recently where I was able to chow down on one of my favorite foods, Texas BBQ. My favorite is good smoked beef brisket.

  Beef brisket is a cut from the breast section just beneath the first five ribs, behind the foreshank. It is best slow cooked to melt the fat and break down the tissue to make it tender and moist. A Texas BBQ style will use a dry rub and smoke it for 6-8 hours at a low temperature. Some baste at the end with BBQ sauce, or just have it on the side for dipping.  Some also mop it with a sauce all day long as it cooks.

  I love how they do it in Texas. The beef absorbs the smoky flavor and it just melts in your mouth. You don’t even need to add BBQ sauce. If it does need a little something, or a kick, I like a tangy, vinegary and peppery BBQ sauce. Not to mention the side of onions and pickles, too.

  Only in Texas, though, did I get to do something that I thought was pretty darn cool. While standing in line at the local BBQ waiting to place my order, I got to choose my beer from an ice water trough of beer (and soda). They had bottle openers along the line encouraging you to drink while waiting. I love it! Now this was a line I didn’t mind waiting in.

  I chose a Shiner Bock, a brew from a long standing brewery in Shiner Texas (1909). It looked to be a good choice and I can’t remember if I ever had it. It was a nice beer even if a bit weak for my tastes. It certainly hit the spot.  I grabbed a second one on my second pass for more brisket.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/22/texas-bbq-with-shiner-bock/';

  
  

  
• 

  Open a beer bottle with a disposable lighter

  Posted: June 22nd, 2009, 2:12am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Open a beer bottle with a disposable lighter

  I keep a bottle opener on my keychain. Like my American Express card, I never leave home without it.

  But in case I ever do, at least I have some options available.

  WIRED How-To Wiki: Open a Beer Bottle With a Lighter

  (via Lifehacker)

  See also:

  • The paper bottle opener
  • Open a beer with a dollar bill
  • Beer Survival: open a beer bottle with a ring
  • 1000 ways to open a beer

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/21/open-a-beer-bottle-with-a-disposable-lighter/';

  
  

  
• 

  Sam Adams Light – for Dad

  Posted: June 21st, 2009, 6:00pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Sam Adams Light – for Dad

  Beer-a-Day #172

  Today is Father’s Day here in the States. As such, I am designating today’s beer as a toast to my own Dad.

  It was my Dad who instilled in me an appreciation of all things beery. For him, a beer was a reward for a hard day’s work and a job well done. The guy schlepped to work in the wee hours of the morning every day for decades, worked 50+ hours a week, then still found time to be our electrician, auto mechanic, plumber, carpenter, lumberjack, and mason. All in addition to being Dad.

  Now that I am a homeowner and have kids of my own, I have a much deeper appreciation of the man and all he did. As Mark Twain supposedly said, “When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.”

  My Father is retired now, and by all indications enjoying the heck out of puttering around his new house and doting on his grandchildren. Unfortunately, health considerations keep him from enjoying a beer except for rare occasions.

  I wanted to find a Schaefer for today, since that was his go-to beer back in the day. But they’re nigh-impossible to get now, if they’re even still being brewed. The F. & M. Schaefer Brewing Company was subsumed by Stroh’s Brewing, which in turn was subsumed by Pabst Brewing. Last I heard, Schaefer was only available in thirty-pack cans. It’s too bad, really. They had one of the best jingles ever, too.

  So, instead, I’ve picked up a light lager from the largest American brewer with its own brewing facilities. A Sam Adams Light. Because that’s what my Dad would pick out.

  Call your Dad today and tell him how much you appreciate him. While if you don’t he’ll never mention it, and if you do, he’ll poo-poo it and say your Mother did all the child-raising, it’ll still tickle him no end.

  Here’s to you, Dad!

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/21/sam-adams-light-for-dad/';

  
  

  
• 

  Starr Hill Northern Lights

  Posted: June 21st, 2009, 3:39am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Starr Hill Northern Lights

  Beer-a-Day #171

  I’ve only recently discovered this Virginia brewer, and my retailer had a bunch more styles in. IPA is probably my favorite style.

  Northern Lights is an extra-special India Pale Ale that is available from January through April. Characterized by its full-flavored bitterness and floral aroma, a perfect blend of barley and hops make this a very balanced IPA. For the craftbrew connoisseur, Northern Lights is a deliciously crafted piece of the heavens.

  Amber color with orange highlights; copious head. Loads of hops in the aroma. Grassy, grapefruity, spicy. Plenty more hops in the finish. This is a hophead’s beer.

  Starr Hill Northern Lights

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/20/starr-hill-northern-lights/';

  
  

  
• 

  Brooklyn Lager…in cans!

  Posted: June 20th, 2009, 2:47am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Brooklyn Lager…in cans!

  Beer-a-Day #170

  So, I was at my preferred retailer the other day, buying up another batch beer I’ve never had before, when I spotted something I never expected to see.

  Cans of Brooklyn beer.

  Get out! When did this happen?! Why wasn’t I informed?

  Too bad the cans are black. You’d think they would have learned the lesson of Miller Genuine Draft in black cans.

  So, while I’ve written about Brooklyn Lager before, I couldn’t not do it for the Beer-a-Day project.

  Pretty amber color, off-white head. I don’t have a bottle to do a side-by-side comparison, but this sure is tasty. Brooklyn remains one of my favorite breweries.

  Brooklyn Lager

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/19/brooklyn-lager-in-cans/';

  
  

  
• 

  Stoudt’s Scarlet Lady Ale

  Posted: June 19th, 2009, 12:34am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Stoudt’s Scarlet Lady Ale

  Beer-a-Day #169

  This English-style ale is brewed with Marris Otter and Caramel malts for a rich, reddish-copper color and smooth maly palate. The use of bittering & aroma addition hops balances the regal, sweet maltiness and imparts a softly perfumed aroma.

  ESB is one of my favorite styles, and I’ve always had a weakness for redheads.

  A lovely medium-dark amber with a beige head. Caramel malty goodness in the aroma. Nicely balanced with a just-right body. This is good stuff.

  Stoudt’s Flag Ship Beers

  Beer Wiki

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/18/stoudts-scarlet-lady-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Widmer Update

  Posted: June 18th, 2009, 4:29pm CEST by Ron

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Widmer Update

  On my recent trip to Austin Texas I saw the Widmer Hefeweizen on tap which I know I’ve had before but it was so long ago that I don’t even remember it. I reviewed the Widmer Drifter back in January and really loved it so I just had to try a tall glass of the Hefeweizen. I’m glad I did. It was great – it was a bright golden yellow with a thick chill haze. The citrus hop and yeast aroma was delightful and the taste that followed was refreshing and well balanced. One of the best wheat beers I’ve ever had.

  I recalled that distribution of Widmer to the northeastern U.S. was very spotty, even though I was told otherwise, but I was in for a pleasant surprise when I returned home. When I took a trip to restock my beer from my local candy store I found new candy. Widmer’s Drifter, Hefeweizen, and Top Dog Amber were sitting the shelf. They were also reasonably priced.

  I grabbed the Drifter (my new “go to”) and the amber which I found to be very nice, just not my favorite style. I’ve already gone back for more of the Hefeweizen (which they have carried in the past, by the way) because it is such a great summer beer.

  Now if I could only get my hands on their Broken Halo IPA…

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/18/widmer-update/';

  
  

  
• 

  Steinlager

  Posted: June 18th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Steinlager

  Beer-a-Day #168

  Uh-oh, it’s in a green bottle. Oh good, it’s not from Europe. Oh wait, it’s from New Zealand, which is even farther away.

  And then they go and mock American Football right there on the label. They’re not exactly endearing themselves to me, and I haven’t even opened the bottle.

  Once opened, the beer is obviously lightstruck. I get a waft of that skunky odor before I even pour it into a glass. Straw in color with a white head. For aroma, I get nothing but skunk. Not much taste, and what there is is pretty foul. This one will be poured down the drain.

  It might be good when it’s fresh, but unless I find myself in New Zealand I won’t ever be buying this again.

  Steinlager

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/17/steinlager/';

  
  

  
• 

  Hook & Ladder Golden Ale

  Posted: June 17th, 2009, 1:01am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Hook & Ladder Golden Ale

  Beer-a-Day #167

  Ron recently compared-and-contrasted this with a Leinenkugel’s Classic Amber, and this came out as his wife’s choice. Since I also tasted a Leinenkugel’s Classic Amber recently, it only seemed right to taste one of these as well.

  Besides, I like that this brewer donates some profits to charity and they’re local.

  This Golden Ale is deep in color with a pleasing malt aroma. A distinctive medium bodied beer that finishes crisply with a slight malt sweetness and essence of citrus flavor with a subtle finish of Willamette hops.

  

  I wouldn’t exactly call that a “deep” color, but it is a little darker than pale straw. Big, off-white head. Smells a bit fruity, but good. Mouthfeel is light with a crisp finish. It’s made with wheat but I hardly taste the wheat at all.

  I agree with Ron’s better half: it’s more rounded and would go well with typical summer foods.

  Hook & Ladder Brewing Company

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/16/hook-ladder-golden-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Wanna suck beer out of a tube?

  Posted: June 16th, 2009, 3:55pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Wanna suck beer out of a tube?

  I guess bottles and cans are passé.

  It looks like something an astronaut would use. Oddly, I picture an astronaut wearing a John Deere hat and with a big ol’ gut.

  Of course, it also looks like the juice pouches my kids occasionally have.

  BeerPaQ from the Beverage Pouch Group

  The CarboPouch™ development allows craft draft beer brewers to fill on-site, a clean, ready-to-go Single45™ or Single25™ pouch with spout and cap. Storage and shelf-life requires refrigeration. Low-carbonated water and shelf-stable energy drinks can also be filled. The organoleptic film structure ensures no off flavor. The patented film structure is designed to handle the pouch “stretch” after filling and carbonation expansion. The automatic filling process is such that there is no headspace after filling. The three-side seal pouch has a smooth side comfort grip feature. The combination of these factors makes the CarboPouch™ a true economical innovation for distribution of craft draft beers to the consumer’s home. Sports functions now have a package!

  The capacity of the Single45™ pouch is 16 oz. and the Single25™ capacity is 8 oz. StandUp Multi64™ (1.8 liter capacity) pouches are suitable for outdoor activities. Patent # 60,691,088

  Would you drink beer out of that?

  (via Boing Boing)

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/16/wanna-suck-beer-out-of-a-tube/';

  
  

  
• 

  NPR: Pairing beer and jazz

  Posted: June 16th, 2009, 5:35am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  NPR: Pairing beer and jazz

  I’m not a fan of jazz music, but I am a fan of National Public Radio. The idea of pairing beer with music isn’t new, but this is an interesting approach, pairing a particular song with a particular beer (and vice versa).

  The Six Pack: Pairing Summer Jazz And Beer : NPR Music

  On porches everywhere this summer, people are soaking up the sticky heat with beer in hand and music in the background. Jazz and beer are natural companions, but no one wants to mix the two inappropriately. So I [Lars Gotrich] approached the Washington City Paper’s “Beerspotter,” Orr Shtuhl, to pair bottles with Charles Mingus, Sun Ra and more.

  On a recent Sunday afternoon, Shtuhl and I picked up a selection of delectable, summery beers. Back on my front porch with two willing participants (thanks, Mark and Kelly), I would describe the artist and the song we were about to hear, play it and then ask The Beerspotter to pair the song with a beer based on its attitude, its backstory and its notes (and, yes, that does work both ways). Three hours later, we matched up six impeccable pairings.

  Interesting. At the very least I have a few beers that I’ve not heard of that I need to try to find.

  What’s a perfect beer/song pairing for you?

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/15/npr-pairing-beer-and-jazz/';

  
  

  
• 

  North Coast Old Stock Ale

  Posted: June 16th, 2009, 1:34am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  North Coast Old Stock Ale

  Beer-a-Day #166

  Unlike yesterday’s selection, I actually did buy an extra one of these specifically to cellar for a year or so.

  Like a fine port, Old Stock Ale is intended to be laid down. With an original gravity of over 1.100 and a generous hopping rate, Old Stock Ale is well-designed to round-out and mellow with age. It’s brewed with classic Maris Otter malt and Fuggles and East Kent Goldings hops, all imported from England.

  Deep brown with red highlights. Head dissipates quickly; it almost looks like brandy. Cherry, viney, a bit of vanilla. Big flavor; now that’s a sipping beer.

  North Coast Old Stock Ale

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/15/north-coast-old-stock-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Beer hydrates better after exercise than water

  Posted: June 15th, 2009, 3:39pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Beer hydrates better after exercise than water

  I guess I’m out of excuses for not exercising.

  Researchers in Spain have discovered that beer after a workout re-hydrates the body better than plain water.

  It’s Better To Drink Beer After Exercise Than Water

  Professor Manuel Garzon, a member of Granada’s medical faculty, made the finding after tests on 25 students over several months. Researchers believe that it is the sugars, salts, and bubbles in a beer that may help people absorb fluids more quickly.

  The subjects in the study were asked to run on a treadmill at temperatures of 104F (40C) until they were close to exhaustion. Once they had reached the point of giving up, researchers measured their hydration levels, motor skills, and concentration ability.

  Half of the subjects were given two half pints of Spanish lager to drink, and the other half were given just water.

  Garzon said that the rehydration effection in those who were given beer was “slightly better” than those who were given only water. He also believes that the carbon dioxide in beer helps quench thirst more quickly, and that beer’s carbohydrates replace calories lost during physical exertion.

  (via Uncle Jack)

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/15/beer-hydrates-better-after-exercise-than-water/';

  
  

  
• 

  Dogfish Head Burton Baton

  Posted: June 15th, 2009, 2:35am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Dogfish Head Burton Baton

  Beer-a-Day #165

  This is a limited release offering from Dogfish Head.

  A blend of oak-aged English strong ale and our 90 Minute I.P.A.. Citrus notes from Northwestern hops meld with vanilla notes from the oak.

  I almost considered cellaring this. But I’m not good with delayed gratification. Especially for something that sounds as delicious as this. Besides, I like this admonition on the label:

  Please share it with loved ones and hoard it from the non-believers.

  Beautiful deep amber in color, craggy head. Loads of aroma, with big citrusy hops and all that vanilla. It’s big and it’s good. I’ll be sipping this one.

  Dogfish Head Burton Baton

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/14/dogfish-head-burton-baton/';

  
  

  
• 

  Harpoon UFO Hefeweizen [Flickr]

  Posted: June 14th, 2009, 4:31am CEST by Hop Talk

  Enclosure: [download]

  Hop Talk posted a photo:

  

  
• 

  Flying Dog Woody Creek White

  Posted: June 14th, 2009, 12:12am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Flying Dog Woody Creek White

  Beer-a-Day #164

  Our tribute to the town we consider to be “Gonzo Ground Zero”… Woody Creek White is a traditional Belgian-style Wit Beer, brewed with unique ingredients like orange peel and coriander, resulting in a refreshing and slightly citrus flavor, perfect for the “Dog Days of Summer”.

  Pale and hazy, with a white head. Spicy and floral aroma. Crisp, with lemon zest, cloves, and a little bubblegum.

  Flying Dog Woody Creek White

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/13/flying-dog-woody-creek-white/';

  
  

  
• 

  Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale

  Posted: June 13th, 2009, 2:26am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale

  Beer-a-Day #163

  Forget about the car companies, this is the original hybrid, a cross between a Scotch Ale, an India Pale Ale, and an American Brown. Our Indian Brown Ale is well-hopped and malty at the same time (magical). The beer has characteristics of each style that inspired it; the color of an American Brown, the caramel notes of a Scotch Ale, and the hopping regiment of an India Pale Ale. We dry-hop the Indian Brown Ale in a similar fashion as our60 Minute IPA and 90 Minute IPAs. This beer is brewed with Aromatic barley and organic brown sugar.

  It’s been a long week. I deserve a reward.

  Deep brown in color with a tan head. It looks like chocolate. Smells sweet. Roasty, a little chocolately, with a very nice bitterness. Damn, this is good.

  Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/12/dogfish-head-indian-brown-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Spaten Premium Lager

  Posted: June 12th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Spaten Premium Lager

  Beer-a-Day #162

  This beer is our speciality. In 1894 Spaten became the first brewery in Munich to produce this brand of light lager.

  Golden in color with a well-balanced hop-flavor. The full rounded body is a superb balance between hops and a malty sweetness.

  Uh-oh. A European light lager in a green bottle.

  Pale straw with a white head. Floral aroma with a touch of sulfur. Would probably taste pretty good if it were fresh, but is rather lacking now.

  Spaten USA

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/11/spaten-premium-lager/';

  
  

  
• 

  Samuel Smith Winter Welcome Ale

  Posted: June 11th, 2009, 2:54am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Samuel Smith Winter Welcome Ale

  Beer-a-Day #161

  Somehow I missed this one when I did all those other Samuel Smith’s back in March. My favorite retailer was having a clearance and I guess this was one of the leftovers. At least it’s from 2008/2009.

  Throughout history, beer of somewhat higher alcohol and richness has been enjoyed for the winter holidays, when old friends get together to enjoy the season. Wassail, a festival to celebrate winter and the beer that goes with it, predates the Christian era. Winter Welcome is vintage-dated with a special label each year. Serve in a traditional tankard for the holidays.

  Clear and honey-colored, with an ecru head. Smells floral and a bit like caramel. Smooth, with more caramel in the flavor, pleasantly offset with some hop bitterness. I rather like it.

  Samuel Smith Winter Welcome Ale

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/10/samuel-smith-winter-welcome-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Rogue Dead Guy Ale

  Posted: June 10th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Rogue Dead Guy Ale

  Beer-a-Day #160

  In the style of a German Maibock, using our proprietary Pacman ale yeast. Deep honey in color with a malty aroma and a rich hearty flavor.

  Wow, I haven’t had one of these in ages. Probably not since the inception of Hop Talk.

  It’s pretty. And it’s malty but a good balance of bitterness to counteract the sweetness. I like it.

  Rogue Dead Guy Ale

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/09/rogue-dead-guy-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Leinenkugel’s Classic Amber

  Posted: June 9th, 2009, 2:12am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Leinenkugel’s Classic Amber

  Beer-a-Day #159

  Our signature all-malt lager is a celebration of genuine ingredients, time-honored brewing traditions and authentic craft beer flavor. With its brilliant amber color, premium blend of Pale, Caramel and Munich malts, and subtle, yet complex citric hoppiness, you simply can’t go wrong with a Classic.

  Well Ron liked this, his wife less so. Ron and I have similar tastes, but I haven’t been all that impressed with most of the Leinie’s I’ve had. Still, I’ll keep an open mind.

  Clear amber with plenty of off-white head. The aroma reminds me of lemongrass. The flavor has a bit of nuttiness to it, but rather light.

  I’m going to have to agree with Ron’s wife on this one. I’d drink it again, but I wouldn’t seek it out.

  Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co. Classic Amber

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/08/leinenkugels-classic-amber/';

  
  

  
• 

  Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat

  Posted: June 8th, 2009, 1:23am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat

  Beer-a-Day #158

  Brewed with select Wheat and Pale malt, Cluster hops and natural coriander, Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat has a soothing taste that will leave you speechless. Silver medal winner of the 2006 Great American Beer Festival and bronze winner of the 2006 World Beer Cup in the Herb & Spice category is like your very own sunset in a bottle.

  Well shucks, I don’t have any oranges. I’ll muddle through.

  Hazy yellow. Lots of coriander and citrus in the aroma. I am reminded of flowers.

  Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/07/leinenkugels-sunset-wheat/';

  
  

  
• 

  Cerveza Pacifico Clara

  Posted: June 7th, 2009, 4:34am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Cerveza Pacifico Clara

  Beer-a-Day #157

  My wife and I had some friends over this evening. With our two kinds of salsa we had salmon cooked on the grill with lemon, vinegar, and cilantro. A light, Mexican beer seemed an appropriate accompaniment. Pacifico fit the bill nicely.

  Pale straw with one finger of white head. Little aroma and very, very light taste. If you like Corona Extra this would be a good alternative.

  Pacifico Clara

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/06/cerveza-pacifico-clara/';

  
  

  
• 

  Fordham Copperhead Ale

  Posted: June 6th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Fordham Copperhead Ale

  Beer-a-Day #156

  Fordham’s flagship beer is our interpretation of the Düsseldorf style Altbier. Its deep copper hue is a result of the caramelized malted barley used. Copperhead is significantly hopped to provide its signature balanced flavor this ale is known for.

  This is brewed fairly local to me, and yet I’ve never had a Fordham beer. 

  Clear, coppery color. Good bunch of malt in the aroma. Pretty good.

  Fordham Brewing Co.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/05/fordham-copperhead-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Play fantasy football with the guys from Hop Talk

  Posted: June 5th, 2009, 9:00pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Play fantasy football with the guys from Hop Talk

  There’s only one sport I really watch, and that’s professional football*. There’s less than two months until training camps open.

  Nothing beats wiling away a Sunday afternoon (and evening) with some good beer and some good football. Toss in some bratwursts or some chili and it’s downright nigh perfection.

  A few years ago I’d played fantasy football for a few years. It was fun, but I stopped because I was so busy with wife, kids, work, a blog, and all. When a message from NFL.com dropped in my inbox, however, I decided to give it another whirl.

  To make it more interesting, I decided to create a private league exclusively for Hop Talk readers. Are you interested in joining us? There are twelve teams in a league, so the first ten people to send me an e-mail message to al [at] hop-talk [dot] com will get the password to join.

  Smack talking is, of course, encouraged.

   

  * American football, specifically the NFL, for you folks outside the U.S.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/05/play-fantasy-football-with-the-guys-from-hop-talk/';

  
  

  
• 

  Session #28: Think/Drink Globally

  Posted: June 5th, 2009, 6:00pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Session #28: Think/Drink Globally

  This edition of The Session is sponsored Brian Yaeger at Red, White, and Brew.

  The Session #28: Think/Drink Globally

  [U]s beer bloggers know that craft beer is to be supported year-round, and that it doesn’t just come from America. So, in honor of Global Craft Beer Forever, I pose everyone writes about the farthest brewery (including brewpubs) you have visited and specifically the best beer you had there. Again, not your favorite or any old brewery you’ve been to, but the one that is the longest haul away, be it by airplane, car, ferry, rickshaw, whatever. (If you blog about beer but have never been to a House of Brewing, get on it!) Then, the last part, since this exercise gives us an excuse to drink beer, do one of the following:

  • if you brought home a bottle while visiting the brewery and have it secreted away, crack it open.
  • if you don’t have any left from that visit but the particular beer is available where you live (or if not your fave from said brewery, another brand from it), go get one.
  • otherwise, find a local beer of the same style and do a little compare and contrast.

  Way back in 1998, I was recognized for my work accomplishments with a trip to Hawaii. We stayed on the big island in a beautiful resort, all expenses paid.

  This was also relatively early in my quest to consume more of and learn more about good beer. I’d visited a couple of the new brewpubs near home, so made sure to stop at the Kona Brewery and Pub.

  It was an awfully long time ago, so I don’t remember what beers we enjoyed that day. I do know, however, that we did enjoy them and I was disappointed that we couldn’t work in a second visit. I did make sure to get myself a glass and a t-shirt, however, and I still have them. (The shirt, apparently, is actually dyed with beer.)

  That’s the farthest brewery I’ve ever visited. I’d love to go back.

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/05/session-28-thinkdrink-globally/';

  
  

  
• 

  Leffe Blonde

  Posted: June 5th, 2009, 1:35am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Leffe Blonde

  Beer-a-Day #155

  Award-winning Leffe Blonde is a full-bodied deep golden ale that is surprisingly subtle and delicate. Belgium’s classic abbey ale is best served in its own chalice-shaped glass, accentuating the ale’s aroma and creating the perfect head.

  “Subtle and delicate.” Sounds like my wife.

  Unfortunately I don’t have the exact same glass so I had to make do. It sure is a pretty color, with that distinctive Belgian-ess in the aroma. I’m not always down with Belgian styles, but this is pretty good.

  Leffe

  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/04/leffe-blonde/';

  
  

  
• 

  Mountaineer Brewing Red Ale

  Posted: June 4th, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Mountaineer Brewing Red Ale

  Beer-a-Day #154

  Mountaineer Red Ale was designed by our brewers with full malt flavor in mind. This deep amber brew was crafted with rich caramel malts, Munich malts, and a special blenc of hops from New Zealand and the Pacific Northwest. You will find this ale well balanced and complex, a great choice anytime of year.

  Very malty aroma. It smells almost like a barleywine. Very sweet with a bit of roastiness. Not bad.

  Mountaineer Brewing

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/03/mountaineer-brewing-red-ale/';

  
  

  
• 

  Hacker-Pschorr Munich Gold

  Posted: June 3rd, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Hacker-Pschorr Munich Gold

  Beer-a-Day #153

  In Bavaria, where beer is an art form to some and a religion to the rest, Hacker-Pschorr Munich Gold is recognized as the benchmark of the lager style. The Hacker-Pschorr Brewery is known as Bavaria’s Heaven – “Himmel der Bayern.” Hacker-Pschorr’s Munich Gold represents the real thing from one of the oldest breweries in Munich.

  Gold was the first Hacker-Pschorr beer exported to the U.S. starting in 1865 and was honored with an award at the International Exhibit in 1876 in Philadelphia.

  Pale yellow, with an off-white head. Aroma is light. Taste is also light, with a little nuttiness. Good.

  Hacker-Pschorr Munich Gold

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/02/hacker-pschorr-munich-gold/';

  
  

  
• 

  Beer-a-Day Project: May recap

  Posted: June 2nd, 2009, 6:29pm CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Beer-a-Day Project: May recap

  1. Carlsberg Elephant
  2. Spaten Optimator
  3. Birra Moretti
  4. Weihenstephaner Original Premium
  5. Hacker-Pschorr Weisse
  6. König Pilsener
  7. Estrella Damm
  8. Boont Amber Ale
  9. Summer Solstice Cerveza Crema
  10. Heavy Seas Small Craft Warning Über Pils
  11. Brooklyn Pilsner
  12. Heavy Seas Red Sky At Night…
  13. Brooklyn Summer Ale
  14. Metolius Dolly Varden India Pale Ale
  15. Mendocino White Hawk IPA
  16. Stoudt’s Pils
  17. Carlsberg Premium
  18. König Ludwig Weissbier
  19. Widmer Brothers Hefeweizen
  20. Bitburger Premium
  21. Sea Dog Bluepaw
  22. Mountaineer Brewing Pale Ale
  23. Blue Point Spring Fling Ale
  24. Capitol City Brewing Organic Saison
  25. Orkney Skull Splitter
  26. Starr Hill The Love wheat beer
  27. Starr Hill Dark Starr Stout
  28. Starr Hill Jomo Lager
  29. Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA
  30. Dogfish Head Immort Ale
  31. Stella Artois

  January recap
  February recap
  March recap
  April recap

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/02/beer-a-day-project-may-recap/';

  
  

  
• 

  Brewery Ommegang Witte

  Posted: June 2nd, 2009, 1:18am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Brewery Ommegang Witte

  Beer-a-Day #152

  “Worth the wheat” proclaims the label, as well as

  Ommegang Witte is a traditional Belgian-style white ale. Its light body, frothy head, and quenching taste blend coriander, sweet orange peel and unmalted wheat into a flavor as bright and soft as summer clouds over a Flanders field.

  Barely a tint of yellow; cloudy, with a chunky white head. Lots of sweet aroma. Refreshing. This is good stuff.

  Brewery Ommegang Witte

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/06/01/brewery-ommegang-witte/';

  
  

  
• 

  Stella Artois

  Posted: June 1st, 2009, 12:00am CEST by Al

  ©Hop Talk - Use on other websites prohibited without express permission

  Stella Artois

  Beer-a-Day #151

  Another European light lager in a green bottle. Yippee. This is one of the most popular beers in the world and is one of flagships of InBev.

  Very pale yellow with a white head that dissipates fairly quickly. Seems like it’s only slightly lightstruck; I’m not getting much aroma. Flavor is very light and easy to drink.
  
  

  submit_url = 'http://hop-talk.com/2009/05/31/stella-artois/';