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Items by Chris Scott

Top Hops Beer Shop is Open in NYC

Posted: January 19th, 2012, 5:00pm CET by Chris Scott

I saw this pop up on Urban Daddy the other day and just got the press release below. Dying to go now. Top Hops Beer Shop: Merchants and Advocates of Great Beer Part Bottle Shop, Part Tasting Room, Part Classroom New York, NY [January 19, 2012] – Top Hops Beer Shop is now open [...]

Today in NYC, Shmaltz Celebrates its 15th Anniversary at 15 Bars

Posted: November 15th, 2011, 2:25pm CET by Chris Scott

From the press release: Shmaltz Brewing celebrates its 15th year of brewing with the Limited-Edition release of Genesis 15:15®. Happening Tuesday, November 15, 2011, beer bars across NYC will partner with Shmaltz for a one-night-only affair! The following 15 bars will have a keg of Genesis 15:15® on draft, starting at 5:15 pm: Queens Kickshaw, [...]

Birra Moretti Loves Pizza

Posted: October 19th, 2011, 8:15pm CEST by Chris Scott

They love it so much that they are running a contest which will be promoted in various pizza places and Italian restaurants in New York City, Boston, Chicago, and South Florida as well as their Facebook page. What are the prizes, you may ask? The ultimate prize of a trip for two to Naples, Italy [...]

GABF 2011 Winners

Posted: October 4th, 2011, 3:47pm CEST by Chris Scott

In case you haven’t seen it elsewhere, the GABF winners have been announced. View the PDF for details. Full press release below. 248 medals awarded; 18 first-time entering breweries earn medals; Indiana claims winningest entry rate Boulder, CO • October 1, 2011—The 2011 Great American Beer Festival® (GABF) competition drew an impressive field of [...]

NYC October Beer Events

Posted: September 28th, 2011, 4:00pm CEST by Chris Scott

Although NY Craft Beer Week has come and gone, that doesn’t mean there isn’t beery goodness to be had in NYC. Here’s a few upcoming events: Sat, 10/1: SingleCut Beersmiths tasting at Earl’s Beer and Cheese (East Harlem) I’ve been wanting to go to Earl’s for a while and this is the perfect reason since [...]

Manhattan Home Brew Tour Review

Posted: September 28th, 2011, 3:15am CEST by Chris Scott

A couple weekends ago, I heard about a Manhattan homebrew tour going on as part of NY Craft Beer Week. With a description like this, how could I resist going? On this intimate homebrew tour, you and 25 strangers—soon to become drinking buddies and friends—will venture inside the homes of three of the city’s finest [...]

4th Annual NY Craft Beer Week Starts Today

Posted: September 17th, 2011, 3:57am CEST by Chris Scott

Today through Sunday September 25, 2011 is the 4th Annual NY Craft Beer Week. Check out nycbeerweek.com for details including locations you can get your passport which gives you access to special promotions at the venues and the passport iPhone and Android apps (free and paid versions available). Coincidentally, I just moved to NYC. Unfortunately, [...]

Goose Island at Rattle n Hum

Posted: June 22nd, 2011, 12:51am CEST by Chris Scott

Bourbon County Stout and vanilla among others. This is the first time I’ve had the stouts on draft. Just as awesome and a bit more carbonated than the bottle. Still pure heaven in a glass either way. Filed under: Beer Pics

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Left Hand Dragon’s Milk

Posted: April 2nd, 2011, 5:54am CEST by Chris Scott

As close to a Goose Island Bourbon County Stout as I can get. And so, so good. Note: the original version of this post said Left Hand. The author was drunk and has been reprimanded. Filed under: Beer Pics

East vs West IPA Challenge at Rattle n Hum

Posted: March 30th, 2011, 1:50am CEST by Chris Scott

Good to be far from home and get a Cigar City beer I haven’t had (peach IPA). Filed under: Beer Pics

Nectar Ales Black Xantus

Posted: March 25th, 2011, 9:47pm CET by Chris Scott

OMG Filed under: Beer Pics

B (grade) Is for Beer

Posted: February 19th, 2011, 1:15am CET by Chris Scott

via Reddit Filed under: Beer Pics

Shmaltz Bittersweet Lenny RIPA

Posted: February 9th, 2011, 2:24am CET by Chris Scott

At Rattle n Hum NYC. Very tasty. Filed under: Beer Pics

Newcastle DraughtKeg

Posted: January 31st, 2011, 2:47am CET by Chris Scott

I was recently sent a Newcastle DraughtKeg to review so I brought it to a party to share and see what others thought of it. The keg holds 5 liters (10 pints) of Newcastle and includes it’s own tiny tap system that keeps it fresh for up to 30 days in your fridge or Krups [...]

Your Favorite Beer This Year?

Posted: December 8th, 2010, 1:26am CET by Chris Scott

Yeah, I know. There’s twenty-something days left in the year and things could change, but before everyone gets wrapped up in the holiday spirit/chaos take a minute and think: what was your favorite beer this year? Bonus points for why. Mine: Cigar City Final Push (Ratebeer / BA). As to why, there’s a couple reasons. [...]

Beer Savers Save Your Beer

Posted: October 13th, 2010, 1:08am CEST by Chris Scott

Ever want to save an open beer for the next day? While some may scoff at this proposition I’ve found that when dealing with good craft beer in bombers or high ABV beers there are times where half a beer is enough and a full one is too much. If you fall in this boat, [...]

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Stella Artois World Draught Masters Competition – Orlando Regionals

Posted: September 6th, 2010, 7:24pm CEST by Chris Scott

A couple weeks ago, the Stella Artois World Draught Masters competition regional semi-finals were held in Orlando at club Firestone. I was invited to attend but ended up being out of town for work. However, a couple friends went to check it out and gave me some notes and photos. Between that and the press materials, I almost feel like I was there

Contestants compete by pouring Stella according to their nine step pouring ritual:

The Purification: Use clean and rinsed branded glass.
The Sacrifice: Open the tap in one quick action and let the first drops of beer flow away.
The Liquid Alchemy Begins: Hold the glass just under the tap without touching it at a 45° angle.
The Head: Lower the glass to allow the natural formation of the foam head.
The Removal: Close the tap quickly and move the glass away so beer doesn’t drip into the glass.
The Beheading: While the head foams up and overflows the side of the glass, smooth it gently with a head cutter.
The Judgment: The right amount of foam is usually about 2 fingers.
The Cleansing: Clean the bottom and sides of the glass.
The Bestowal: Present the beer on a clean beer coaster with the logo facing the consumer.

Fifteen regional finalists and one wild card will compete in Boston on September 17 for the title of U.S. Draught Master and a spot in the World Draught Master competition in London on October 28. The Orlando winner was Grant Huff, seen here pouring the winning Stella.

Stella Artois World Draught Masters - Orlando - Firestone Live

More photos from my friend Jason at hoppd.com:

Beer, Boulder, and WordPress

Posted: June 30th, 2010, 8:23pm CEST by Chris Scott

Into beer and WordPress (or at least WordPress)? I’ll be giving a talk on WordPress caching at WordCamp Boulder on July 10. If you’re in the area come on out and listen to all these great speakers talk about all things WordPress.

Anyone planning on going? Any recommendations for where to go for good beer? Got any good jokes?

Bottle Opener Ring/Key Chain

Posted: June 27th, 2010, 4:01pm CEST by Chris Scott

Found via Boing Boing, this bottle opener ring (or keychain) is functional and bad ass. Click the pic for more photos or to buy one in your size.

Dundee Virtual Beer Tasting

Posted: June 23rd, 2010, 6:13pm CEST by Chris Scott

Last Thursday I participated in a “virtual beer tasting” put on by Dundee Brewing (@dundeebeer). Dundee sent out six pack with two each of the three beers for the tasting to the participants and Dundee’s brewer Jim McDermott walked us through tasting the Summer Wheat, Kölsch-Style Ale, and Stout via online video chat (kinda like Chatroulette but with more beer and less dongs).

Summer Wheat

This is an American wheat brewed with a bit of rye (40% wheat, 5% rye) and Chinook, Centennial, and Cascade hops. It uses an ale yeast and is unfiltered so it pours nice and cloudy. 4.5% ABV and 18 IBUs. This one surprised me. I wasn’t expecting to like it since I usually like stronger beers but it had a nice hop finish to it which made it more interesting. Great beach/pool/cookout beer.

Kölsch-Style Ale

Brewed with 5% wheat and Mt. Hood, Hallertau, and Galena hops this one comes in at 5.68% ABV and 10.5 IBUs. This was another good beer and one I’d buy for a cookout any time. Dundee suggested using this one to boil brats. I’m assuming they meant putting the beer in the boil but drinking it while boiling seems like a great pairing as well. This is available in the new Craft Pack along with the Stout, IPA, and Pale Bock Lager.

Stout

A bit on the sweet on the sweet/dry continuum, this stout is brewed with chocolate, coffee, caramel and four other yummy malts. 5.8% ABV and 15 IBUs. Yum. Yum. Yum! This was a really solid stout that I’ll be seeking out. This is available in the new Craft Pack along with the Kölsch-Style Ale, IPA, and Pale Bock Lager.

Thanks

Thanks to Dundee and Pete for sending me a sixer and letting me particpate in this. The format was interesting and it was good to hear what the brewer had to say as well as get feedback from the other bloggers, writers and other in the tasting. It is good to see Dundee brewing good beers and this definitely makes me think of them not just as the ones that make the Honey Brown. That’s a good thing.

Links to other write-ups on this tasting:

Newcastle Geordie Schooner

Posted: June 1st, 2010, 1:15am CEST by Chris Scott

WTF is a Geordie Schooner? That was my first thought when a package from Newcastle arrived with a CD, glass, and a bottle of Newcastle. It turns out the Geordie is the glass. From the press release:

Originally called the Wellington glass, it became so popular in the city of Newcastle that it was renamed the Geordie Schooner – a tribute to the local residents nicknamed “Geordies.” The city of Newcastle’s bartenders continue to serve Newcastle Brown Ale in the same glass, and now beer drinkers stateside can appreciate the tradition.

The Geordie Schooner’s style is designed to enhance the draught beer experience, creating a unique pour that highlights the beer’s incredibly smooth flavor. The robust glass shape is as functional as it is good looking. The wide rim traps the rich, caramel aromas, thereby enhancing the flavor. The Schooner’s nucleated bottom features an etched star that allows CO2 bubbles to escape out of the ale, retaining the creamy foam head to create a refreshing and lively taste until you reach the bottom of the glass.

Mine must have gone through the Ace Ventura treatment because it arrived a bit broken:

That didn’t stop me from pouring a chilled Newcastle in it though:

According to the release, this glass will show up in select bars and restaurants in the US (not sure about other countries) in a 16 and 20 ounce version.

In case you’re wondering what a “nucleated bottom” looks like, here’s the star etched in the bottom:

Has anyone seen this in the wild anywhere yet?

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Beer Newb’s 5 Things You Can Do to Celebrate American Craft Beer Week

Posted: May 23rd, 2010, 9:32pm CEST by Chris Scott

As you can tell from my posting frequency, I haven’t been keeping up very well with the world of beer. As such, I hadn’t seen Beer Newb yet. It was brought to my attention by my friend Sean who took the photo they are using in their article 5 Things You Can Do to Celebrate American Craft Beer Week. That’s me, second from the left

Beer Tasting at Celebration Town Tavern on 2/25/2010

Posted: January 28th, 2010, 12:08am CET by Chris Scott

Thanks to Bill for pointing out this beer tasting (and tweet up) at the Celebration Town Tavern in Celebration, FL on 2/25. From the event info:

We’ll kick it off at 6:30 and take it till whenever … If you have not heard the Tavern has 99 bottles of beer and an additional 8 on tap!

We will be sampling 4 new beers at the Tweet Up … vote on your favorite and we will add it to our Beer Menu!

You can get more details on the Town Tavern and the event on their Facebook page. I’m planning on going since it is on my way home from work and the Town Tavern has a good beer selection and food.

What Beer Should You Drink? Use This Handy Flowchart

Posted: December 14th, 2009, 6:47pm CET by Chris Scott

From Eating the Road comes this awesome flowchart on choosing the right beer:

Redhook Treblehook Barley Wine

Posted: October 18th, 2009, 11:22pm CEST by Chris Scott

Thanks to Redhook (well, actually their PR firm) I’ve now forgiven my UPS guy. See, a couple weeks ago he left a shipment from Apple sitting on my front doorstep instead of at the side door like he usually does. Luckily I was home and able to snatch my precious Apple cargo before someone else did. But just last week all was made right when he delivered a box with a Redhook Treblehook Barley Wine in it *and* left it by the side door. Bygones.

I opened the box to be greeted by another box wrapped in a red ribbon with the Redhook logo and 2009 Limited Edition in fancy gold lettering. I knew then that this was no ordinary box. This was a box that had a ribbon around it.

I resisted the urge to break the golden seal and brought the box into work the next day so I could share. I was happy to find not just a beer but also a glass.

I poured it in the glass and it was brown and had some head to it. Sorry, I suck at reviews and really care more about taste than anything else.

I liked this beer. It didn’t have as strong an alcohol taste and wasn’t as sweet as some barley wines but it was nice and smooth for a 10% ABV brew. If you like barley wines I don’t think you can go wrong with this one. Want some more details? Here’s what Redhook says about it:

Boasting big aromatic malts, Redhook Treblehook pours a dark gold with a velvety mouthfeel and a slightly bitter finish. Brewed in the style of a traditional American barley wine with a 10.1% ABV and 57 IBUs, Treblehook sets itself apart by playing up the hops to add depth and complexity. Dry-hopped vigorously throughout the six-month process, Treblehook’s strength comes from its ability to have a strong hop flavor while still allowing the malt characteristics to shine through.

“We wanted Treblehook to have all the classic barley wine characteristics,” said Doug MacNair, brewmaster for Redhook Ale Brewery. “We spent time getting the subtleties right, balancing the malts with a strong hop backbone to create Redhook’s take on the style.”

Here’s some other reviews that are probably better than this one:

A Good Beer Blog – Barley Wine: Treblehook, Redhook Ale Brewery
The Barley Blog – Redhook Treblehook Barley Wine
Just Beer – Redhook Treblehook Barley Wine

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New Belgium Spoofs “I’m On a Boat” with “I’m On a Bike”

Posted: October 11th, 2009, 3:37pm CEST by Chris Scott

Thanks to the Beer Runner for pointing out this video from New Belgium:

WPvideo 1.10

Around the World in 80 Beers

Posted: September 27th, 2009, 5:22pm CEST by Chris Scott

Interesting World map with beer labels representing the countries. I see at least one that looks out of place (Shiner for Chad). Anyone else?

Best River Beer Ever!

Posted: September 27th, 2009, 5:13pm CEST by Chris Scott

Found in a grocery store in Helen, GA. Lucky for me they had good beer as you can see by the Old Chub next to it. We passed on the Keystone Light and picked up some Magic Hat, SweetWater, Terrapin, and Dog Fish Head.

My Visit to Elizabeth Street Brewery

Posted: August 14th, 2009, 2:34am CEST by Chris Scott

This post is waaaaaaay overdue. But hey, that’s how I roll…tardy, bitches!

At the end of May, I was in San Francisco for WordCamp and to visit the mother ship of the company I work for, Voce Communications. The latter part is important because that’s how I met Richard Brewer-Hay. He’s a client of ours and the man behind the eBay Ink blog. But, most importantly, he is the proprietor of Elizabeth Street Brewery.

Elizabeth Street Brewery is not what first pops into your mind when you think of a brewery, but it is probably better than most breweries you’ve been to. ESB as it is called, is “a pub for the people, by the people” housed in what is the back end of Alyson and Richard’s garage at their house in Noe Valley. Lest you think this is just part of a garage, this is just part of a garage that TLC’s While You Were Out made it into a pub. They brew on the weekends (check their blog or @esbale on Twitter for details) and usually welcome visitors in for a pint. This is where they hone their brewing skills while scouting out a location for a “real” brewery and pub in the area.

Richard and Alyson were kind enough to open the pub for us after a long day at WordCamp and Richard shared his beers and stories with us. Time and maybe a few too many beers before and during our visit have made my memory a little foggy as to what we had, but I do remember the beer being great and the stories even better. If you’re in the area, be sure to check out what they are doing and ESB and stop by for a pint.

Here’s some photos from our night:

War is Hell

Posted: April 21st, 2009, 4:11am CEST by Chris Scott

I have been following the “Beer Wars” movie and associated PR news in the beerblogohopsosphere over the past couple weeks and really wanted to write someting. Not something about the movie since I didn’t see it, but something about what it brought out. I never could quite get my thoughts into even a semi-coherent form.

So, I’ll just let Jay Brookston take it from here. Not only does he sum up much of what I’ve been thinking over the past few weeks, but he is a much better writer than I. The latter should not be news to anyone but my mom: she thinks I’m special and would have chuckled at the “brewhaha” reference that I refrained from using.

Fail Whale Pale Ale

Posted: April 6th, 2009, 9:28pm CEST by Chris Scott

If only it was real…

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Calories in Dogfish Head Beers

Posted: March 25th, 2009, 6:19pm CET by Chris Scott

Dogfish Head has said the FDA is making them take the calorie counts off their web site. Since I actually refer to this info quite often, I’m putting it here for my reference. These were taken on 3/25/09. If you have any additions/corrections, please let me know in the comments.

60 Minute IPA: 209
90 Minute IPA: 294
Midas Touch: 307
Shelter Pale Ale: 168
120 Minute IPA: 450
Black and Blue: 290
Burton Baton: 320
Fort: 415
Red and White: 310
World Wide Stout: 372
Aprihop: 240
Chicory Stout: 185
Festian Peche: 160
Punkin Ale: 230

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Proposition 3-17: Make St. Patrick’s Day a US Holiday

Posted: March 8th, 2009, 3:03pm CET by Chris Scott

The fine folks at Guinness (standard disclaimers about fine folks apply) are promoting the Proposition 3-17 movement to get SPD made into a national holiday in the US. Check out the site for details and sign the petition. You can add their Facebook page to your profile and get credit for anyone that signs the petition from your page. What’s that good for? Well, your name will scroll across the marquis on the Prop 3-17 site. Don’t be greedy, this is about a holiday about beer (not really) so raise a pint and sign the petition!

If you need SPD paraphenalia, check out KegWorks. I’m eyeing the shot glasses made of dark chocolate.

In related news, I’m promoting the movement to use SPD in place of St. Patrick’s Day to save on letters and punctuation in these tough economic times.

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Orlando’s ‘Beer Bomb Bus Tour’ is Back

Posted: February 15th, 2009, 9:17pm CET by Chris Scott

After a long hiatus due to a broken bus, Mike is back to driving the Shipyard bus around Central Florida for the Beer Bomb Bus Tour. The next one is Sunday, February 22nd and leaves from Redlight Redlight (new location on Bennet Dr.) at 2PM. You’ll ride on the Shipyard bus to four bars in four towns where you’ll learn about a different beer at each bar. Your first specialty beer is included in the $40 ticket price as well as complimentary Shipyard on the bus.

I was on what I think was the last one of these in September, 2007 when the bus broke down on the way to the first bar. We made the best of it and made it to the first bar in Sanford and had a mini-tour that also ended there I’m looking forward to doing another one of these and would be there next weekend if I wasn’t going to be out of town.

Tickets are on sale at Redlight Redlight. For more info, see the Beer Bomb of the Month MySpace page.

Facebook Connect Added to Hail the Ale!

Posted: February 6th, 2009, 5:12pm CET by Chris Scott

If you visit Hail the Ale! (instead of just perusing our RSS), you’ll see a new item in the sidebar for Facebook Connect. This allows you to be part of the Hail the Ale! community. This means that you can log in to your Facebook account to comment here as well as having your fancy schmancy Facebook profile badge show up in the recent visitors list of the sidebar.

If that’s not enough, you even get a profile page here that shows your info with a link to your Facebook profile and a list of your comments. For example, here’s mine.

So, get to crackin’!

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Corona Light Grows Up

Posted: January 28th, 2009, 5:59pm CET by Chris Scott

Corona Light will soon be in a tall 12 oz. can. From the press release:

The new package, available in a 12-pack, will roll-out at retail in warm weather markets (Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, Nevada and Texas) in December, with remaining U.S. markets to follow in early 2009.

“We are excited to add the new Corona Light 12 oz. can to our Modelo Brand portfolio,” said Bruce Jacobson, executive vice president of sales for Crown Imports, Corona’s U.S. importer. “Corona Light is leading the imported light beer category, and this new package offers our wholesaler and retailer partners yet another high-end option for consumers to enjoy Corona Light at a wider variety of locations where bottles may not be offered.”

Their media rep was kind enough to send me a can so I can tell you that this can definitely is taller than a normal can. You’ll want to make sure you have a narrow enough can koozie for these.

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Go Read Dr. Beer Love

Posted: January 26th, 2009, 6:14pm CET by Chris Scott

Why? How about because John, one of the Beer Love duo, asked me to share a link to their blog with you? OK, if that’s not enough, how about that they have a mission statement posted right on their home page? Still not enough? How about that in said mission they use the word ‘tertiary’? Seriously, if that doesn’t seal the deal I don’t think we can be friends any more. Oh, also Dr. Beer Love has a whole slew of reviews and news for you to peruse.

Use TweepSearch to Find Twitter Users Interested in Beer

Posted: January 21st, 2009, 10:05pm CET by Chris Scott

Based on the number of follow notices I get each day to @hailtheale, there’s a keg load of Twitter users interested in following beer people. Today, TweepSearch came out which lets you search for Twitter users by keywords in their bios. Want to know who has “beer” in their bio? Here you go.

Twitter Taste LIVE Beer This Saturday

Posted: January 14th, 2009, 10:17pm CET by Chris Scott

On Saturday 1/17/09 at 8PM ET Twitter Taste LIVE (TTL) will hold their first beer event. The subject of the tasting is Introduction to Trappist Ales featuring Chimay Red, Chimay Tripel, Westmalle Dubbel, and Westmalle Tripel.

I couldn’t find much info. on the TTL site about the format, but it looks like you buy the aforementioned beers and someone will guide the tasting via Twitter updates which will show up on the event page. You can use their web interface to sign in to Twitter to post during the tasting and it will append your tweets with the #ttl hashtag. You could also just use your normal Twitter client and put the #ttl hashtag in there.

If you are interested, check out the event page, sign up, and obtain your ales. I’ll be attending and tweeting as @hailtheale.

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Sea World and Busch Gardens Killing Kittens!!!

Posted: January 5th, 2009, 10:51pm CET by Chris Scott

Well, not really, but getting rid of the free beer samples at the hospitality areas in both parks is tantamount to killing at least two kittens. While it has been a while since I’ve been to either park–this happens when you live too close to them–the free beer samples were a nice way to take a break from the screaming kids and other tourons.

I’m guessing that this is part of the A-B/InBev deal and the Busch Entertainment properties are positioning themselves for the inevitable sell-off. Still, I always liked the free beer. At first, I liked it for the obvious reason but then, as I came to appreciate beer more, I liked it because the hospitality areas had information about the beer, the brewing process, and A-B history.

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Littles Kings Acquired By Moerleins

Posted: December 31st, 2008, 10:15pm CET by Chris Scott

That’s the news according to Realbeer.com. From the article:

“What we’re about with the return of Little Kings is the same thing that we’ve been doing with Christian Moerlein Lagers and Ales the last four years, which is repositioning the brands to make them relevant with today’s consumers,” CEO Greg Hardman said.

While for many, this doesn’t mean much, Little Kings holds a special place in my heart. It was Little Kings that we used to buy while in high school and it became the beer of choice for the group I hung out with. It had more flavor than the light beers typical to most high school drinking sessions and, more importantly (at that time), it had a higher alcohol content. Good to see that the brand may make a comeback.

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Orlando Brewing’s “Brew Year’s Eve” Party

Posted: December 24th, 2008, 10:15pm CET by Chris Scott

From their email newsletter:

Live Music by: BIG JEF SPECIAL
Hors d’oeuvres, &
Mindnight Chapagne Toast!
9 PM to CLOSE
Tickets Online NOW!

Tickets are only $10. Unfortunately, the link to buy tickets online was a PayPal form so I can’t just easily link over to it but you should be able to get tickets at the brewery prior to New Year’s Eve but I’d definitely call to make sure.

My 2008 Predictions Come True

Posted: December 17th, 2008, 7:17pm CET by Chris Scott

On the first day of 2008 I posted a short list of predictions for this year. How’d I do? Here’s the rundown…

Craft Beer Sales Will Increase: While the year-end numbers aren’t out yet, at the midway point craft beer sales had increased by 11%. I’m confident that when the numbers come out for all of 2008 that we will see something very close to that.

The Drinking Age in the US Will Not Change: Nope, it didn’t.

2008 Will Be the Year of Consolidation: A-B and InBev, Magic Hat and Pyramid, and a few other smaller breweries all tied the knot.

Big Brewers Will Get Better at Creating “Craft” Beers: Bud American Ale is the notable standout here.

I Will Continue to Post Erratically: Self-fulfilling prophecy? Check.

Stay tuned for my first post of 2009 where I make more safe predictions and tout my lack of knowledge. Until then, happy holidays!

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Rate Your Beer Using Twitter With Beerdo!

Posted: November 19th, 2008, 6:37pm CET by Chris Scott

Beerdo! is a new (at least to me) site to allow you to rate your beer using Twitter. That means you can use any Twitter client or SMS to send ratings.

Rating is easy since all you do is @ message beerdo with the name of the beer followed by exclamation points for how many points to give it (from 1 - 5). For example to rate Bud Light Chelada with one star (unfortunately, they don’t have negative ratings) you’d send: @beerdo Bud Light Chelada !

You can see what people are rating at the Beerdo! site or on Twitter. Due to the volume of tweets, I wouldn’t follow them on Twitter but just check out their page.

It would be cool to be able to go to the Beerdo! site and see things like ratings for a beer, highest/lowest rated beers and what’s hot.

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Stone Orlando Kickoff at Red Light Red Light on 11/21/08

Posted: November 10th, 2008, 10:12pm CET by Chris Scott

According to their MySpace:

We’re so excited about Stone Brewing Co. coming to the area we’re putting 7 beers on draft!!! Stone Pale Ale, Stone IPA, Arrogant Bastard, Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard, Ruination IPA, Black IPA, and Smoked Porter. You can get a flight of 4 or a pint of any one! We’ll also have a special get a t shirt and pint glass too!

Note that they are in their new location on Bennet Road (looks like it is where the mexican place for a short while). I’m going to try to go to this depending on what I have going on that night/next morning.

Election Swing State Beer Tour

Posted: November 4th, 2008, 6:47pm CET by Chris Scott

In honor of today’s election, I’ll be drinking beers from the swing states. Here’s a list of possible candidates (get it?) for my Total Wine trip tonight. What will you be drinking?

Arizona:

Four Peaks 8th Street Ale

Pennsylvania:

Florida:

Tennessee:

Sadly, I couldn’t find any TN breweries that had a wide distribution. If you know of one, let me know in the comments.

Indiana:

Three Floyds Alpha King Pale Ale (not widely distributed, but well-known)

New Mexico:

Santa Fe Nut Brown

Nevada:

Suggestions?

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Vote for “Should I Drink That” Podcast and Win

Posted: October 23rd, 2008, 10:22pm CEST by Chris Scott

Not only would the fine gentlemen (and I use that term very loosely) at SIDT appreciate your vote for the 4th annual Podcast Awards, but they are sweetening the pot by offering a chance to win 2 free tickets to the Pittsburgh Brufest. So, click on over to SIDT for details as well as a link to their cool new tshirts.

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Review: Flying Dog Dogtoberfest

Posted: October 22nd, 2008, 5:52pm CEST by Chris Scott

A few weeks ago, Flying Dog sent me a bottle of their Dogtoberfest Fall seasonal. I’m a bit late on reviewing this since I had to wait for most of the cold that had invaded my body to leave so that I could actually taste what I was drinking.

According to Flying Dog (and I have no reason to doubt them), Dogtoberfest is a “traditional-style Marzen, brewed with 100% imported German ingredients”. This is a lager that uses Light and Dark Munich and Vienna malts and is hopped with German Perle and Hersbrucker hops. ABV is 5.3% and IBUs are 30.

From the first sip to the last, this was a really good beer. It isn’t as malty as some marzens like the Brooklyn Brewing Oktoberfest I had a few days ago, but it has a great flavor and is very drinkable. This is a good beer for tailgating, grilling out, or just chilling out. I’ll definitely be buying this one throughout the rest of the much-too-short Octoberfest beer season.

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Zima Gets Ze Axe

Posted: October 21st, 2008, 9:32pm CEST by Chris Scott

Good riddance to the end of a horrible chapter in what will hopefully be a short book on “malternatives”. Just typing that word made me throw up in my mouth a bit.

Funny Beer Video

Posted: October 4th, 2008, 12:23am CEST by Chris Scott

You know when people say they have a funny video for you to watch and it isn’t funny? Well, this isn’t one of them. Thanks to HTA reader Lars for sending this in.

Hello Beer, My Old Friend

Beer Themed Halloween Costumes

Posted: September 29th, 2008, 9:50pm CEST by Chris Scott

At the suggestion of a friend, I bring you some beer-themed Halloween costumes. These are all from Buy Halloween Costumes. I don’t get anything if you buy through them but I have used them in the past and their costumes are pretty good and they have a huge selection.

Captain 6 Pack:

I like this one since it is easy to do and you have an easy way to carry your beer with you. This would be even better to do if you are grossly overweight and the shirt looks more like a half shirt.

The Refreshinator:

This is Captain 6 Pack’s busty sidekick. Need I say more? Didn’t think so. This one would not be funny if you are grossly overweight. Well, actually…yeah, it would be funny.

Beer Pong Table:

Depending on the crowd at your Halloween party, wearing this will either make you the life of the party or the biggest douchebag there–even bigger than the guy dressed as an actual douchebag.

Beer Keg (Plus Size):

This one is for you husky kids. One-liners to use while wearing this one: “Pump my head”, “Free kegstands”, “I’m a half barrel of pure sex”, “Can I fill you up?”.

Beer Googles:

Are you lame and don’t want to commit to a costume? Try this great take on a classic joke that never gets old. NOTE: wearing these while driving is a bad idea.

Beer Garden Girl:

Prost! A word of warning for the ladies: wearing this to a party or bar will ensure at least one drunk guy will mistake you for a medieval servant and drunkenly exclaiming “Wench! Get me my beer!”. Right before puking on your shoes.

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Real Men of Genius

Posted: September 11th, 2008, 5:05pm CEST by Chris Scott

Well, not really…

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Some Beer T-shirts

Posted: September 2nd, 2008, 9:17pm CEST by Chris Scott

Small but good selection listed at PleaseDressMe.

Link via: Phil.

Beerdolier | Uncrate

Posted: August 13th, 2008, 6:52pm CEST by Chris Scott

The Beerdolier at Uncrate. A must for tailgating season.

Link via: Phil

Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, FL

Posted: August 7th, 2008, 1:41am CEST by Chris Scott

Joe at Cigar City Brewing in nearby (well, to me, at least) Tampa, FL emailed to let us know that he’s opening a new brewery. While that, in and of itself, is newsworthy what’s really cool is they are blogging the whole thing. Ever wonder what it takes to start a brewery? Well, check out their blog and see for yourself.

They are scheduled to open mid-to-late September of this year so if you’re in the Tampa, Orlampa, Orlando area be sure to check it out when they do. I’ll definitely be making the short road trip when they open.

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Video: Sexy Guinness

Posted: August 5th, 2008, 6:25pm CEST by Chris Scott

Video:Sexy Guinness. Probably NSFW.

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Beer Blog: Oktoberfest Girls

Posted: August 1st, 2008, 1:59pm CEST by Chris Scott

An entire blog dedicated to pictures of pretty girls at Oktoberfest (or at least holding large steins of beer). That’s what you’ll find at Oktoberfest Girls.

Review of Cocktails iPhone App

Posted: July 18th, 2008, 5:14pm CEST by Chris Scott

At bbumâ€™s weblog-o-mat there’s a nice view of the Cocktails app for the iPhone. If you have an iPhone or iPod Touch you have no excuse for not knowing how to make a drink.

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Flying Dog Hiring a Florida Sales Manager

Posted: July 17th, 2008, 6:42pm CEST by Chris Scott

Here’s the job listing for Flying Dog’s position for a Florida Sales Mgr. This would be my dream job if it wasn’t for the lack of 3 yrs. experience. Other than that small detail, I’m totally qualified.

For All You Do, InBev Bought You

Posted: July 15th, 2008, 12:32am CEST by Chris Scott

I’ve held off on posting about the pending negotiations of InBev purchasing A-B since until there is an agreement, a press release, and regulatory approval it doesn’t really matter that much to you and me. Well, yesterday two of the three were completed and A-B agreed to InBev’s offer to make sweet multinational behemoth love. This is being called a merger, but it seems like InBev made the moves and was calling the shots.

It looks like A-B will likely sell off its theme park business but will continue using its U.S. breweries to inflict sub-standard beer on North America. “The companies also said they remain commited to A-B’s wholesalers”. I pulled out my Merger Press Release to English Dictionary and found out this translates as: wholesalers will be getting the shaft after the dust settles.

iPint iPhone/iPod Touch Game

Posted: July 10th, 2008, 7:54pm CEST by Chris Scott

UPDATE 7/30/08: As Steve notes in the comments, iPint doesn’t show up in the iTunes store any more. Not sure why this is.

So, the iTunes App Store went live today and so did the 2.0 iPhone firmware (well, kinda…). Perusing the store, I saw a free app from Carling called iPint (iTunes link). The game involves sliding a pint down the bar and avoiding obstacles to get it into your friend’s waiting hands. The game uses the iPhone’s motion sensor to let you guide the pint.

When you get the pint in your friend’s hands, you are rewarded with a pint you can “drink” by tilting the phone.

iPint iPhone/iPod Touch Game

The game is nicely done and pretty fun but I wish they would have gone a little less heavy on the branding. Do you really need to see multiple Carling logos every second you play?

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Beer Makes Civilizations Stronger

Posted: July 10th, 2008, 1:40pm CEST by Chris Scott

George Will makes the case a bit more eloquently.

Link via: Daring Fireball

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Celebrate the 3rd of July With Beer Videos

Posted: July 3rd, 2008, 9:35pm CEST by Chris Scott

Two of them. First, from Wicked Awesome Films (via Tim) one explaining why Sam Adams is the best beer in the entire world.

Next, Asahi’s beer pouring robot (via Hack a Day).

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The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Cookbook

Posted: June 27th, 2008, 8:20pm CEST by Chris Scott

Beer and cooking are two of my favorite things (I also like long walks on the beach and don’t like mean people). My cooking has been nonexistent lately but The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Cookbook by John Schlimm may fix that. I haven’t had a chance to pick this up, but I do have some info from the author himself:

More than ten years in the making, The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Cookbook is an unprecedented collection of more than 400 food and drink recipes containing beer as a main ingredient. From scrambled eggs made with beer at breakfast and a cheese steak sandwich with onion rings or a beer burger and Chocolate Beershake for lunch, to a surf ‘n’ turf beer-infused combo of lobster and steak for dinner (and a midnight snack of chocolate-dipped strawberries), beer lovers can feast on brewskis at any time of the day. Every genre of food is included: appetizers, breads, soups and chili, salads, fruits and vegetables, sandwiches, sauces, marinades, beef, poultry, pork, wild game, stews, fish and seafood, past, and desserts.

With an introduction chronicling beer’s history, as well as hilarious beer quotes by the world’s most illustrious beer fans peppered amidst the recipes, The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Cookbook is a rousing tribute to a tasty icon more than 7,000 years in the making

Dave at Tailgating Ideas obtained a review copy and was kind enough to share his review. There’s another review at urbandaddy.

Have you read this? If so, what did you think?

Brew Music Fest at Orlando Brewing on 6/28/08

Posted: June 18th, 2008, 2:21pm CEST by Chris Scott

If you’re in O-town and like music and beer, check out Orlando Brewing’s Brew Music Fest on the 28th.

It runs from 4PM to midnight and features the following bands:

FAIRWEATHER FRIEND
X.O.X.O
THE SUGAR OAKS
MIRROR PAL
AN INTRODUCTION TO SUNSHINE
JOHNATHAN APPLESEED
69 FINGERS
THE ALVAREZ QUARTET

There is a food vendor on site (I’m assuming this is the Lunch Box which serves German food and soft preztels). Blankets & chairs are welcomed.

Hit the link above for all the details and to get your tickets. Since I’m a slacker at posting this, today is the last day to get advance tickets for $5 off so get moving.

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“Beer Money” - A Crime Novel Based on Beer

Posted: June 16th, 2008, 4:20pm CEST by Chris Scott

While it may not seem like it, I’m an avid book reader. Crime novels–especially those with an interesting theme (Randy Wayne White, Bob Morris, etc.)–are a genre I really enjoy. So, I was happy to see an email from Matthew Freeman who has authored a new crime novel that is based on beer! Here’s his description of “Beer Money”:

An Australian brewery executive has gone missing. Or has he? Joe Abbott
is paid by the man’s wife with a beer-sodden cheque to find out the
truth.

In doing so he locks horns with dodgy nightclub owners, a toupeed beer
baron, and endless eccentrics - plus, of course, a wild pig - all in the
twisted pursuit of a stash of missing money.

And he has time for a beer or ten along the way.

You can get more info. and purchase the book from the publisher. Any of our Austrailian readers seen this yet?

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Flying Dog “Mixed Pack” Coming This Summer

Posted: May 22nd, 2008, 12:53am CEST by Chris Scott

Putting on my beer blogging (as opposed to my beer drinking) hat for a minute, Flying Dog is one of my favorite breweries. They make my job easy by sending samples which include the details that people are interested in and they also have plenty of info. on their blog that I can crib from. Also, saying “Flying Dog blog” is fun–not as fun as “The Bob Loblaw Law Blog”, but I digress…

The latest package that the man in brown dropped off from Flying Dog contained their “Mixed Pack”. This is a four-pack: Kerberos Tripel, Gonzo Imperial Porter, Double Dog Pale Ale, and Horn Dog Barley Wine. These are all pretty strong beers–both in flavor and alcohol content–so a four pack is a good size. I like that there are four different beers so you get to try each one without committing to drinking four or six. According to their press kit, these should be on shelves this Summer.

Flying Dog Canis Major Mixed Pack

There were a couple other beers in the box, but I’ll save those for another post.

PBR Coffin

Posted: May 6th, 2008, 8:56pm CEST by Chris Scott

Surely you’ve seen the guy w/the PBR coffin by now. If not, here you go:

So, if you had no pride what beer label would you emblazon on your coffin? I’m going with Belzebuth.

Magic Pyramid Brew Hat

Posted: April 30th, 2008, 5:00pm CEST by Chris Scott

Magic Hat and Pyramid Breweries are planning to merge. According to the press release Magic Hat will acquire Pyramid so the name will just be Magic Hat which is less awesome that what I came up with but probably a much better business decision. West coast, meet east coast.

Beerguard T-Shirts from The Barley Blog

Posted: April 29th, 2008, 9:29pm CEST by Chris Scott

At least I’m assuming they are the ones that made this. Either way, I love the shirt (partial to the red myself).

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Beer Pics

Posted: April 29th, 2008, 7:11pm CEST by Chris Scott

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15th Annual Florida International Beer Festival 4/25/08

Posted: April 22nd, 2008, 3:42pm CEST by Chris Scott

This Friday from 6-10PM at Heritage Square park (where the homeless used to sleep on benches next to bronze alligators before the city took the benches out). Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. You can get advance tickets at:

Orlando Brewing (Orlando)
Crooked Bayou (Downtown)
Big C Liquors (University Blvd.)
Petty’s Specialty Foods (HWY 434)
Roget’s Fine Wine & Beer (Oviedo)
Inland Ocean Surf Shop (WP Village)
Friendly Confines (Waterford Lakes & WP)
Hurricane Grill and Wings (South Kirkman)

You can get more details at WHTQs site.

I found out last night that Crooked Bayou (not sure about the others) is only accepting cash so be prepared. Based on what I’ve seen at this and other local beer fests, getting your tix in advance is a good idea and keeps you from standing in line twice.

I’ll be there sporting a Hail the Ale! t-shirt and taking lots of pictures.

Earth Day Celebration at Orlando Brewing on 4/20/08

Posted: April 18th, 2008, 10:02pm CEST by Chris Scott

Beer, live music, and more beer. What else could you want?

Getting Ready for the Weekend

Posted: April 4th, 2008, 9:01pm CEST by Chris Scott

That’s what I’ll be doing, how about you?

Thanks to HTA reader Phil for the pic.

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Hail the Ale! Desktop Backgrounds

Posted: April 4th, 2008, 5:24pm CEST by Chris Scott

Go get them here. Most common desktop sizes (well, at least for Mac) are there. If you have a desktop size you don’t see there, let me know in the comments and I’ll add it.

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Review: Flying Dog Garde Dog

Posted: April 1st, 2008, 11:13pm CEST by Chris Scott

Flying Dog kindly sent a bottle of their spring seasonal Garde Dog to HTA HQ. Garde Dog is a Biere de Garde or “a beer for the keeping” according to the info. provided with said bottle. I really don’t know why you’d keep this since once I drank it, I immediately wanted to have another one. I can’t see keeping these around long in my fridge or at a party.

According to Beer Advocate, the Biere de Garde style:

[...] is golden to deep copper or light brown in color. They are moderate to medium in body. This style of beer is characterized by a toasted malt aroma, slight malt sweetness in flavor, and medium hop bitterness. Noble-type hop aromas and flavors should be low to medium. Fruity esters can be light to medium in intensity. Flavor of alcohol is evident.

I’d say that in this case, Flying Dog nailed it. This is a great, easy-drinking beer. It would be perfect for a party or to introduce someone who doesn’t normally drink craft beers to something that has great flavors without being too extreme in any direction.

For your video enjoyment, Flying Dog has put together an interview w/their Executive Brewer to talk about Garde Dog. I’m embedding it below, but check the link if you want the higher-res version or are seeing this in your feed reader.

Flying Dog Brewery Garde Dog Biere De Garde from Flying Dog Brewery on Vimeo.

Summer Beer Intern

Posted: March 28th, 2008, 8:51pm CET by Chris Scott

No, not here at Hail the Ale! (unless you like to work for free, pay for your own drinks, and look good blogging–if so, we should talk) but working for the Chief Beer Officer at Four Points Sheraton.

WHITE PLAINS, NY - March 26, 2008 - Corporate America was changed forever a year ago when Four Points by Sheraton appointed the world’s first-ever Chief Beer Officer (CBO), Scott Kerkmans. After a year in office the resident CBO has realized that a dream job can come with a nightmare work load. Scott is seeking a little sudsy help by kicking off a world wide search for a Best Brews Summer intern. The lucky lad or lass will assist the CBO with his Best Brews duties including beer tasting, trend research and brewery relations.

As part of his undertaking the resident CBO is seeking a yeasty soul over the age of 21 with a love for lager and a thirst for industry knowledge. “I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with someone who is as passionate about the brewing community as I am” said Kerkmans. The search for the Best Brews Summer Intern will kick off on March 26th with ads in the Wall Street Journal and a number of intern job boards like MonsterTrak and craigslist. This isn’t your frat brother’s job though, the internship will come with the frothy perks of tasting and toasting, but will also include learning the inner workings of the Four Points by Sheraton Best Brews program and the ever expanding craft beer industry and beer business. Like all executive internships, this position will start pouring in June and tap out in August.

Check out the press release for details.

Is it Friday Yet?

Posted: March 27th, 2008, 6:26pm CET by Chris Scott

HTA reader jarhead sent us this and it was perfect for the way I’m feeling today:

Check out savagechickens.com for other good cartoons written on post-it notes.

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Lakemaid Beer

Posted: March 26th, 2008, 8:23pm CET by Chris Scott

What do beer, mermaids and fishing lures have in common? Everything. Just ask Lakemaid Beer. The site is a creation of August Schell Brewing Company who brews the beer and Rapala Lures who provides the lures to land the Lakemaidens.

Pictured here is Miss Walleye although Miss Crappie caught my eye (no, I’m not making up the name, just the bad pun):

Thanks to HTA reader Jason for emailing this in.

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Homebrewing Info at BeerToBrew

Posted: March 25th, 2008, 9:42pm CET by Chris Scott

Irwin at BeerToBrew emailed to let us know about their site. According to their home page:

BeerToBrew is a website dedicated to bringing you useful information on homebrewing. Here you will find step by step instructions on how to make beer, as well as information on homebrewing equipment, ingredients, and recipes for a variety of beers. Our Homebrewers Online Store carries thousands of beer and homebrewing related videos, books, and merchandise. Being homebrewers ourselves, we want to bring you information and resources that you can use, and not bog you down in pointless details. Although some aspects of making beer may be intimidating if you haven’t tried it, the brewing process is actually very simple. Start making your own beer today!

I’ll be checking this out soon since I have the itch to start brewing and need to do some more research before I get going.

Silicone: Not Just for Boobies Any More

Posted: March 21st, 2008, 7:56pm CET by Chris Scott

That’s right, it may have been in your beer at some point. This article points out that brewers can use silicone to prevent brew kettles from bubbling over. Don’t worry, the silicone is filtered out of the beer. Or is it?…

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We’re #51!

Posted: March 20th, 2008, 7:29pm CET by Chris Scott

That’s what an email from Wikio told me. #51 in the Gastronomy category.

To numbers 1-50: Congratulations! But watch your back, we’re comin’ for you.

To numbers 52-100: SUCK IT!!!

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Boing Boing TV Reviews the Heineken Beertender

Posted: March 13th, 2008, 1:21am CET by Chris Scott

BBtv editor Joel Johnson reviewed the $300 Krupps Heineken Beertender. The best way to describe the video w/out spoiling it: fauxhawk.

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washingtonpost.com’s Beer Madness Bracket

Posted: March 12th, 2008, 7:56pm CET by Chris Scott

Screw March Madness, there’s Beer Madness:

Go to washingtonpost.com and fill out your first round bracket. Be sure to check back on the 16th and 23rd of this month and again on April 6 to see who advances.

Link via: KalamaBrew

WordPress Beer Theme

Posted: March 11th, 2008, 7:02pm CET by Chris Scott

If you’re using WordPress and have wondered how you can make your blog look like a sweet, foamy head of beer, wonder no more. Check out the WordPress Beer Theme.

YABB: Beers Of My Life

Posted: March 5th, 2008, 12:00am CET by Chris Scott

YABB = Yet Another Beer Blog. Don’t get me wrong, I’m always happy when another beer blog sprouts up. But, I wanted a way to note these in the post titles. So, there you go and here you are.

Anyway…check out Beers Of My Life. According to Matt, the author of said site:

MY ‘beer journal’ is just that, I talk about the many beers that I drink- cheap, expensive, domestic and imported I write about them all.

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Orlando Brewing

Posted: March 4th, 2008, 11:53pm CET by Chris Scott

Don’t go to Bennigan’s. That’s lame. Almost as lame as drinking green beer. Instead, go to Orlando Brewing (it was much more colorful in the announcement email but I’m too lazy to reformat):

COME CELEBRATE

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

AT ORLANDO BREWING!!!

INTRODUCING OUR “MAIBOCK” BEER

SATURDAY, MARCH 15TH

TAPROOM OPEN: 12PM-CLOSE

TRADITIONAL IRISH DINNER AVAILABLE

INCLUDES: CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE, SHEPHERD’S PIE, MURPHY’S CHOWDER, IRISH WHISKEY CAKE, AND ONE COMPLIMENTARY ORLANDO BREWING BEER

DINNER TICKETS: $25.00 IN ADVANCE . . . $30.00 DAY OF EVENT

DINNER SERVED @ 7PM

ENJOY LIVE . . .

IRISH MUSIC!!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW @ ORLANDO BREWING OR PURCHASE ONLINE

Check their site for the purchasing info.

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211,489,982 Barrels of Beer on the Wall

Posted: February 29th, 2008, 1:53am CET by Chris Scott

And now you have that annoying tune in your head too. But for a good reason: craft beer continues to kick ass and take names. I know this because the Brewers Association has released their 2007 Craft Beer Industry Statistics.

Some highlights:

Growth of the craft beer industry was 12% by volume for the first half of 2007.
The craft beer industry eclipsed 8 million barrels of craft beer produced
in the U.S. in 2007.
The microbrewery segment grew 21% in 2007, showing great interest in local brewers.
Craft beer sales share is 3.8% by volume and 5.9% by dollars.
Total U.S. Craft Beer Industry Annual Dollar Volume: $5.7 billion.

Clicky the linky for more details and some hot 3D exploding pie chart action.

Also, if it takes on average ten seconds to “take one down” signing the song, you’d need about 67 years to get to zero. And that’s for barrels…

Park City in Five Beers

Posted: February 27th, 2008, 10:02pm CET by Chris Scott

While I was in Park City last week I was happy to have a few Wasatch beers I had before, a few I hadn’t, and some other good local brews. I’d recommend all of these and the food at both Red Rock and Wasatch was as good as the beer.

Squatters Full Suspension at Deer Valley

Red Rock Black Bier at Red Rock Brewing

Wasatch Evolution Amber at Wasatch Brew Pub

Wasatch Hopalicious (cask) and Squatters Full Suspension at Wasatch Brew Pub

Where to Go for Good Beer in Park City, UT?

Posted: February 21st, 2008, 3:07am CET by Chris Scott

Since my lazyweb request worked so well for KC, I figured I’d give it a shot for my trip to Park City tomorrow. So, where should I go for a good beer or five? I’ll be staying in Park City and will definitely hit Wasatch and I’ll be in SLC for a bit tomorrow with a rental car and possibly some free time on Sunday, so where should I go?

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Beer Links for February 19th

Posted: February 20th, 2008, 1:31am CET by Chris Scott

Hail the Ale! beer links for February 19th:

[Confessions of a Beer Geek - Time to pay the Piper] Yet more hops news
[Appellation Beer- Sam Adams sharing hops with smaller brewers] More hops news
[Appellation Beer - Hops: Ugh, the saga continues] Are we going to have a Hops Supply Alert system?

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HopHead Homebrewing Fanatics

Posted: February 19th, 2008, 11:00pm CET by Chris Scott

So, you find yourself sitting at your computer asking yourself if there are any homebrew sites you should check out. Unless your computer can read your mind it probably just sits there sending penis spam but not really doing anything to answer your question. So…I’ll help you out. Check out HopHead Homebrewing Fanatics.

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Pompous Ass Coming to Orlando Brewing on Valentine’s Day

Posted: February 10th, 2008, 4:58pm CET by Chris Scott

No, Pompous Ass isn’t one of the bands that plays at Orlando Brewing but the brewery’s newest beer. Pompous Ass is a highly hopped ale with about three times (if I’m remembering the conversation I had with John there a few weeks ago correctly) the hops of their IPA.

I had a sample of this last night straight from the fermenter (it was conditioning) and it was damn good. Very hoppy but very drinkable. I was having too much fun drinking that and a few others that I forgot to ask what the IBUs were, but to me it seemed similar to a Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA.

This newest beer will be on tap starting on Valentine’s day so avoid the lameness of taking your sweetheart to an overpriced dinner at a crowded restaurant and stop by the brewery for some Pompous Ass.

Hail the Ale! Has a WebClip Icon and iPhone/iPod Touch Wallpaper

Posted: January 26th, 2008, 8:07pm CET by Chris Scott

File this under the category “Just because I could”. I added a WebClip icon to the site so if for some odd reason you create a home page bookmark to the site on your iPhone or iPod Touch, you’ll get a custom icon.

Also, here’s a wallpaper image you can use on your iPhone or iPod Touch:

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Beer Tasting Comic at Basic Instructions

Posted: January 19th, 2008, 11:15pm CET by Chris Scott

The always funny Basic Instructions comic had one recently about beer tasting titled “How to Be Patient”. Here’s the first couple panels–click through for the full comic.

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Beer Predictions for 2008

Posted: January 1st, 2008, 7:07pm CET by Chris Scott

As readers of this blog know, I don’t really know what I’m talking about. But, since this is a blog I’ll go ahead and make some predictions about beer in 2008 like I do know what I’m talking about. These may be generic enough to be gimmies or they could be totally uninformed or I could have pulled them out of my ass. Whatever the case, let me know what you think in the comments.

Craft Beer Sales Will Increase

This is an easy one. Last year, craft beer sales saw healthy increases. Not only that, but it seems like craft beer mindshare is still increasing and will continue to do so. This brings new craft beer drinkers into the fold. Also, more craft brewers are getting noticed or continuing their growth.

The Drinking Age in the US Will Not Change

Toward the end of 2007 there was much talk of the US drinking age. Nothing new as far as the arguments against it go, but the buzz was there for change or repeal. Call me cynical (really, I don’t mind), but when it comes to changing state laws–especially those tied to federal money–it takes a large disruption in the status quo to make any changes. I don’t know what group has a big enough stake in this to risk their position to push for it.

2008 Will Be the Year of Consolidation

We saw this trend gain steam at the end of 2007 and I think it will continue. Smaller brewers will continue to look at their competitors and see opportunities for combining their operations and/or brands to better compete in their current markets or expand to new markets.

Big Brewers Will Get Better at Creating “Craft” Beers

We should see Miller Lite’s craft series this year and A-B will likely continue on with their craft-styled beers. This year, I think we’ll see some of the biggies launch craft beers that look, smell, feel and taste like craft beers. Hopefully, this will get better beer in front of a larger audience. There will probably be some missteps along the way, but overall I think we’ll see some good beers.

I Will Continue to Post Erratically

As much as I like blogging, I know that I’ll continue to be pressed for time and at times lack motivation. I’ve been thinking about having some friends do guest blogging here so maybe I should put this on my (nonexistent) resolution list.

Where to Go for Good Beer in Kansas City?

Posted: December 21st, 2007, 5:08pm CET by Chris Scott

I’m off tomorrow to Kansas City and I’m looking for suggestions for good beer spots. We’re staying in Parkville so I’ll definitely be hitting the Power Plant. Those of you familiar with or from that area: what do you suggest?

Doppelbock Release Party at Orlando Brewing on 12/15/07

Posted: December 13th, 2007, 7:46pm CET by Chris Scott

From their email list:

DOPPELBOCK RELEASE PARTY!

This week has finally arrived. Come in and join the fun. We will have live entertainment and the release of Orlando Brewery’s Winter Fest Doppelbock.

WHERE: Orlando Brewery, 1301 Atlanta Ave.
WHEN: Saturday, December 15, 2007

If you’re in the area, check it out. Sadly I won’t make it but I plan on going soon after to try this one.

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Getting Total Wine’s Beer List

Posted: December 13th, 2007, 3:48pm CET by Chris Scott

If you have a Total Wine in your area you may have been like me and checked out their online inventory only to be disappointed that it only listed wine and spirits. Well, my buddy Phil was smart enough to contact them and they sent him a PDF of their Buying Guide which lists their beers (and wine and spirits) as well as prices.

It looks like the Buying Guides are specific to location and are compiled every few months. I’m assuming they also have printed versions available in-store, but I’ve never noticed one. Plus, I’m lazy so being able to browse this from the comfort of my recliner with a beer in hand makes me happy.

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Book Review: Beer and Philosophy

Posted: December 13th, 2007, 12:48am CET by Chris Scott

Beer and Philosophy: The Unexamined Beer Isn?t Worth Drinking is book about beer and philosophy (this is how all my grade school book reports started out, so it’s all I know..). It is a collection of short chapters from philosophers, beer lovers, beer makers, and beer drinkers–with most authors being more than one of those–and edited by a philospher and beer lover, Steven D. Hales. I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that Alan McLeod, a fellow beer blogger at A Good Beer Blog was one of the authors. I was sent a review copy of this book courtesy of the editor/publisher.

The book begins with a foreword from “The Beer Hunter” himself, Michael Jackson followed by an Editor’s Introduction. Both set the stage for the philosophical questions brought on, related to, and maybe even answered by beer. From there, Part 1 is The Art of Beer, followed by The Ethics of Beer. Not to be outdone, The Metaphysics and Epistemology of Beer and Beer in the History of Philosophy round out Parts III and IV. With the exception of Part 1 which has six chapters, the parts contain three chapters each. Since the chapters are written by different authors with very different backgrounds and writing styles, you may want to treat this like a collection of short stories and read one and let it sink in before tackling the next one.

Since this is a beer blog, here’s a quick list of the chapters written by beer folks:

The Beer Matrix: Reality vs Facsimile in Brewing by Garrett Oliver, the brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery.
Quality, Schmaility: Talking Naturally about the Aesthetics of Beer; or Why is American Beer So Lousy? by Martin Stack and George Gale. Martin Stack is an Associate Professor of Management at Rockhurst University who’s scholarly work is focused on the brewing industry.
Extreme Brewing in America by Sam Calagione, the founder of Dogfish Head.
Beer and Autonomy by Alan McLeod from A Good Beer Blog.
What’s a Beer Style by Matt Dunn, a homebrewer who wrote his biology master’s thesis on brewers yeast and evolution and is now completing his PhD in the History and Philosophy of Science.

These were my favorite chapters since they were written in a more natural writing style about topics I’m familiar with. In contrast, the chapters that were heavier on the philosophy ranged from very interesting to unreadable for me. I don’t fault the authors for this since they were writing about what they know in a more academic style that they are familiar with and for their audience.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone even if you don’t think you’re interested in philosophy. Many of the topics brought up by the authors were likely thoughts you’ve had while enjoying a beer but may not have taken the time to think about so it is nice to see someone take the ball and run with it. You can buy the book at Amazon (referral link which I make a few pennies from)