The Beer Thread

[Driftwood]

Wish there was a party with free Live Oak Hefeweizen.

[Five_Hole]

Anybody pick up Half Acre's Baume that was released today? Or maybe try previous years editions? Is it any good?

[markdurr]

512 is some good stuff.

and yea! i am excited/jealous for you alady. i wish i could join your shenanigans in austin.

[alady]

I wish you could too. Any hope to get up there for a day or two?

Also send me all yr beer recs.

[Driftwood]

Anybody pick up Half Acre's Baume that was released today? Or maybe try previous years editions? Is it any good?

I like stouts that are a kick in the teeth so it's not my thing but it's pretty good.

[claypoolfan]

Mrs. Drifty and me

So excited!

How will we recognize you?

I'm 6'6", kind of hard to miss, and I'll be with a 5'10" blond girl. Maybe I'll post a pic of myself tomorrow or wear a unique shirt I can post or something.

[getrowdy]

We'll find you. Dress warmly. The beer is in the back in a garage with no heat.

[falcozappa]

I'll be in my Leeds United shirt, celebrating a magnificent victory.

[falcozappa]

Anybody pick up Half Acre's Baume that was released today? Or maybe try previous years editions? Is it any good?

I liked Baume a lot. I think I got through about 4 growlers of it last season.

[claypoolfan]

We'll find you. Dress warmly. The beer is in the back in a garage with no heat.

Wait, seriously?

Ok, in that case I'll be in a black Columbia fleece (unless it's REALLY cold and I need an actual jacket in the event?), and some black Jordans with red laces...

[getrowdy]

I'm not kidding. lol

Last year we snagged a table inside and kept that for a while but the majority of the time everyone is out in the garage where the beer is. I will be wearing a red down jacket.

[claypoolfan]

Ok, change of plans cause my girlfriend is feeling ill, gonna be bringing a friend instead. So don't look for the blond, just the tall dude.

[fan o gano]

How to make "Faux Loko" (http://gizmodo.com/5889806/faux-loko-the-diy-drink-i-shouldnt-be-telling-you-about/gallery/1)

[reedeeda]

Wow, this sold out already.


I know. :(
I snoozed and lost.

[Driftwood]

1 hour till getting drunk with clouddead2!

[scottyh]

My friends and I are doing a beer tasting tonight. I think I'm going to bring Hopslayer and some other beers I picked up earlier.

[claypoolfan]

Didn't know Sierra Nevada had started offering cans. (http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/food/stew/chi-canned-beer-craft-beer-in-cans-reaches-sierra-nevada-20120302,0,493339.story)

[falcozappa]

A tallboy of Torpedo for me, please.

[falcozappa]

Sounds great. Hardcore package, anyone? Almost tempted just to get two venue packages and forget about the buffet.

Also, if the Rock Bottom tapping doesn't appeal next Thursday:

Fischman Liquors and Tavern (http://www.beermenus.com/places/2221-fischmans) is hosting its Bi-Weekly Beer and Food truck event where we combine some of the best craft brews with the cities finest food trucks. Come out and join us for a drink or two all while enjoying some savory dishes provided by the trucks! Meet some friends, meet some neighbors, or meet some new neighbors who may become new friends!



TAP THIS!!! is double taping from one of our favorite brewers!



This week we our proud to tap the Great Divide!

Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout
Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout iss Yeti Imperial Stout’s sophisticated sibling. They may be from the same clan, but they have entirely different personalities. Oak aging gives a subtle vanilla character, rounding out Yeti’s intense roastiness and huge hoppy nature. Who says you can’t tame a Yeti? 9.5% ABV


Espresso Oak Aged Yeti

A generous infusion of espresso adds yet another layer of complexity to this beer, combining with the vanilla oak character, intense roasty maltiness and bold hop profile to create a whole new breed of mythical creature. It’s official: You can now have Yeti with breakfast. 9.5% ABV



Hercules Double IPA

3 Time Medal Winner, Australian International Beer Awards

Hercules Double IPA is not for the faint of heart. It is, however, fit for the gods. Hercules delivers a huge amount of hops from start to finish. Its hefty backbone of nutty, malty sweetness balances its aggressive hop profile. 10% ABV

…and don’t forget our food trucks!

Meatloaf-A-Go-Go

America’s favorite meatloaf cupcakes are on the move! The Meatloaf Bakery’s Meatloaf-A-Go-Go™ food truck has hit the streets, offering a selection of some of our best selling recipes and daily specials.

Brown Bag Lunch
We take a slightly different approach to the distinctly American art of barbecue. We combine humble cuts of meat, regional American slow and low cooking techniques with the flavors and textures from our youth and the city we love. The result? Simple, soul satisfying bites which comfort and surprise you, all at the same time.

And always live music, to be announced soon!

Meatloaf-A-Go-Go is the food truck for the meatloaf bakery who make delicious meatloaf cupcakes, with mash instead of frosting.

Seriously, is nobody up for this? What other place offers $4 12oz drafts of Old Rasputin (http://www.fischmanliquors.com/) on their regular menu?

[scottyh]

http://www.denveroffthewagon.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Twisted-Pine-Ghost-Face-Killah.jpg

Finally got my hands on one.

[Unlikely Japan]

I want.

[scottyh]

It's in the fridge. My buddy said he couldn't make it through half a bottle.

[Unlikely Japan]

Was he drinking it with something else? I can't imagine drinking that by itself.

[Greg Nasty]

1 hour till getting drunk with clouddead2!

Wait, what was this?

[getrowdy]

It was night of the living ales at goose island on saturday. he's referring to claypool because he's tall. (he's tall but he's not clouddead tall)

[scottyh]

Was he drinking it with something else? I can't imagine drinking that by itself.

No idea. He just said he had tried it this past weekend and couldn't make it through the bottle.

[scottyh]

Holy. Shit.

I'm going to struggle to finish this.

[Greg Nasty]

Holy. Shit.

I'm going to struggle to finish this.

: /

I was hoping it would be good.

[scottyh]

Just a bit overpowering. I can't taste anything but the peppers.

[scottyh]

Found this quote on a beer blog. Amazing.


I chugged an entire Ghostface Killah while listening to Ghostface Killah on my bachelor party. I had never had a chili beer so I didn't really think it would be hot for some reason. Damn, I regretted that immediately. Ill remember it forever though

[falcozappa]

I liked these:


Not sure why anyone would drink this beer unless it is on some sort of a dare. I could not make it through a bottle and would only use it for cooking. The beer is just too spicy to to drink and you can not taste anything in the beer other than fire.


Flavor- HOLY SHNIKES! This one brought more heat and pepper than I think I've ever tasted in a drink! While the label does insist that you "keep away from children and the tepid of tongue", they did warm you! Not much flavors as far as malt or hop go because the chili peppers included are too strong

[falcozappa]

Gonna try and pick up some Pipeworks tomorrow:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/421122_10150836853725278_679285277_12429428_178204 7853_n.jpg

[alady]

Where are they selling Pipeworks?

I'm going to drink a Five Vulture tonight. Possibly on the porch, since I didn't get to drink outside yesterday :/

[teekoh]

It seems like they're delivering in waves. The places they got to first (Tuesday) sold out by the end of the day.

I know West Lakeview Liquors was supposed to have some.

[ArmenTamzarian]

Weird. I check the board for first time in like a year and see a mention of where I just was at an hour ago. Fischman's is doing a two bottle limit so it should last until tomorrow, but I don't know how many bottles they got. I think I saw Pipeworks only bottled around 1,000. Their Friends With Benefits members got an allotment, and then after that only ten other stores got bombers. There might be a rush right before their tapping/food truck thingy, so if you're looking to get Ninja vs. Unicorn, I recommend getting there early. I went to the first one and it was insanely crowded. If you've never been, the place is basically an old man bar, and for their first tapping event you could barely move in there.

[PulpAffliction]

I just bought a bunch of beer to celebrate my official employment.

I'm not drinking any because I'm still recovering from my cold, though.

[falcozappa]

Where are they selling Pipeworks?

I'm going to drink a Five Vulture tonight. Possibly on the porch, since I didn't get to drink outside yesterday :/

I'm hoping to pick one or two up from the tapping at Fischmans tomorrow. Fancy doing a BYOB pre-gig on Friday? I have a Groupon that I need to use sometime soon.

Nice on the outside drinking. I had a beer on the roof with MrsFZ when we were looking at Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. Breezy but not at all cold.

[falcozappa]

Weird. I check the board for first time in like a year and see a mention of where I just was at an hour ago. Fischman's is doing a two bottle limit so it should last until tomorrow, but I don't know how many bottles they got. I think I saw Pipeworks only bottled around 1,000. Their Friends With Benefits members got an allotment, and then after that only ten other stores got bombers. There might be a rush right before their tapping/food truck thingy, so if you're looking to get Ninja vs. Unicorn, I recommend getting there early. I went to the first one and it was insanely crowded. If you've never been, the place is basically an old man bar, and for their first tapping event you could barely move in there.

Yeah, an old man bar with old man bar prices, but an amazing beer list. It's quite the oddity.

[alady]

I'm hoping to pick one or two up from the tapping at Fischmans tomorrow. Fancy doing a BYOB pre-gig on Friday? I have a Groupon that I need to use sometime soon.

Nice on the outside drinking. I had a beer on the roof with MrsFZ when we were looking at Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. Breezy but not at all cold.

I could do that.

Didn't end up having a beer tonight after all :/

[ArmenTamzarian]

Oh I agree their tap list is unexpectedly outstanding, owner really knows his beers. Didn't know if anyone else had been there and didn't want people thinking they were getting Hopleaf or anything.

[falcozappa]

I just bought a bunch of beer to celebrate my official employment.

I'm not drinking any because I'm still recovering from my cold, though.
Yay! and Boo!


I could do that.

Didn't end up having a beer tonight after all :/
Yay! and Boo!


Oh I agree their tap list is unexpectedly outstanding, owner really knows his beers. Didn't know if anyone else had been there and didn't want people thinking they were getting Hopleaf or anything.
I go there for a pint or two if I'm getting the Metra out to the burbs.

[Willy]

New Glarus Brewery--Road Slush

[Driftwood]

Had Raspberry Tart from New Glarus among other things on tap at Vintage Brewing Company. The dubbel was probably the standout from their selection. Cask dunkelweizen was really good too.

[falcozappa]

Road Slush and Raspberry Tart are both delicious.

[claypoolfan]

Tonight, with some Sheffield's BBQ delivery:

http://www.ohtsuki-saketen.com/Pictures/boxweb/05st_bernardus_tripel750.jpghttp://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wTjGT4mvsPQ/TU8TriTLfWI/AAAAAAAAAoo/SYKSFQGuDCw/s1600/FlyingDogIPA.JPG

[falcozappa]

No Pipeworks left at Fischmans, but I'm loving the Great Divides. And the covers guy playing Yoshimi va is a nice surprise.

[PulpAffliction]

http://www.pitch.com/imager/boulevard-set-to-release-rye-on-rye/b/original/2545677/cbef/boulevard_rye_on_rye.png

Picked up some of these bad boys.

[scottyh]

http://allevents.in/Denver/Spring-Melt-Beer-Fest/329693060408609

Tomorrow night. eeeeeeeeee

[claypoolfan]

So it turns out Tampa has a lot of great breweries and beer. I've had lunch at a different one each day. I'll have a full beer report when I'm back but the definite standout has been Cigar City (http://www.cigarcitybrewing.com).

[Driftwood]

Haven't I been saying that for a while?

Really want to go there.

Cigar City that is. Not Tampa.

[claypoolfan]

Oh, never saw that if you have. It's pretty amazing, especially the jai alai and the red ale.

[Pablo Éluard]

Scotty Karate Scotch Ale

yum

[WretchedSkye2113]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gDFc0oqk2iY/T1WDVeERIgI/AAAAAAAAFCU/R9Hfxw7kXe4/s1600/beermap_large.png

[alady]

I had two Five Rabbit Huitzis and I am shithoused.

[Five_Hole]

I had two Five Rabbit Huitzis and I am shithoused.

Very tasty and as you've learned very strong.

[falcozappa]

It's been a good weekend for beer. Had the Stone Old Guardian Barleywine and some Expedition Stout and (randomly) a bottle of Great Lakes Christmas Ale yesterday. Having a couple of Little Sumpin' Sumpin's today.

[alady]

Very tasty and as you've learned very strong.

On an empty stomach no less :/

[markdurr]

so i may be headed to my first bottle share tomorrow night and i have never really been to one. any etiquette i should know about? is bringing a life and limb enough, or too much? if i brought a 2 year old, local, barleywine 12oz is that not enough? thanks to whomever answers!

[Driftwood]

It really depends how many people are there / how many hours you are going to be there.

I'd bring more than 12oz if you think you'll drink more than 12oz.

[markdurr]

okay cool. thanks drifty. i appreciate it.
i'll come back if i find a little bit more info on it.

[falcozappa]

Went out to a BYOB near North & Clybourn today, so I picked up a growler of CBC IPA, and had a pint of cask FrankenPorter whilst I was waiting. Both delicious.

[Driftwood]

Half Acre does growler fills of any brewery's growler right?

[falcozappa]

Yes indeedy. And I think they still do the 2 for $20 deal on Twosdays.

[PulpAffliction]

Fuck. I need to live in a state that allows growlers. :(

[falcozappa]

Wait, there are states that don't? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised given the existence of *splutter of indignation* dry counties.

[PulpAffliction]

Neither Missouri nor Kansas allow the practice.

Kansas liquor laws are bad, but not Utah levels of insanity, thankfully.

[stupka32]

Im drinking a hopslam and enjoying life.

[falcozappa]

It's difficult to do the first without doing the second.

[arbee]

The only place I have come across growlers around here is Central City Brewing Company, home of Red Racer.

[falcozappa]

Now The Hold Steady are in on the act (http://www.nme.com/news/the-hold-steady/62615) too.

[Driftwood]

Dear teekoh - am drinking the last Hop Sutra and it is lovely. Please bring more. <4

[Driftwood]

Also thinking of hosting Coachella viewing parties / beer sharing events. Do any days work better than others for everyone (13-15 April and 20-22 April).

[claypoolfan]

I'd probably be up for something during Weekend 1.

[falcozappa]

Weekend of 13-15 is out for me for sure (stag night weekend), but I think the next one is OK. I'll check when I get home.

[teekoh]

Dear teekoh - am drinking the last Hop Sutra and it is lovely. Please bring more. <4

Will do. We'll be heading that way for Easter, so maybe at one of the....


Coachella viewing parties / beer sharing events

....we'll be able to pass some along.

We had the Founders Imperial a while back which was delicious, and I had the Lagunitas last night which was very enjoyable. Reminded me of a lighter (in color) Sierra Nevada Celebration.

[getrowdy]

Anyone going out drinking real beer tomorrow?

[nanatod]

we're waiting until sunday to go anywhere, getrowdy, because southport and the rest of the neighborhood is just brutal on st. patrick's day. am thinking of going to go 4 food on sunday around lunchtime. have you been there?

[arbee]

Currently enjoying:

http://www.andrewsvirtualbrewery.com/images/blanche_chambly2.jpg

[PulpAffliction]

Anyone going out drinking real beer tomorrow?

I bought some of these because I figured I could use some cans:

http://craftcans.com/craftcanspics/8bitbig.jpg

[stelles75]

Today, the following brewery is hosting my "drinking club with a running problem":

http://www.fourfriendsbrewing.com/

We're gonna have about 70-90 people and we got great deals on kegs. Only $10 a person! If you get on a plane now, you might could make it!

[getrowdy]

I bought some of these because I figured I could use some cans:

http://craftcans.com/craftcanspics/8bitbig.jpg

You going to play some chiptunes while you drink it? :)

[Audiobully]

I attempted to order Dark Lord Day tix literally at noon, and they were already sold out. Yet, stubhub already had them up for re-sale. I'm seriously never going to drink their beer again. They've clearly let their popularity get to them and are now cashing in on it. Fuck them.

[Driftwood]

Lulwut? That's beyond dumb.

They could sell Dark Lord's at $100 a bottle straight to the consumer if they wanted and every bottle would probably get bought.

People post stuff on stub hub before they have it all the time.

Also if you really wanted to "take a stand" you'd have stopped drinking their beers years ago. Late to the game and whining about nothing. Sorry but it's true.

[Driftwood]

Remember this is the same brewery that could have sold bombers of Zombie Dust for close to $10 with all the hype after it being available on tap. They sold them in six packs for $12.

[Audiobully]

Lulwut? That's beyond dumb.

They could sell Dark Lord's at $100 a bottle straight to the consumer if they wanted and every bottle would probably get bought.

People post stuff on stub hub before they have it all the time.

Also if you really wanted to "take a stand" you'd have stopped drinking their beers years ago. Late to the game and whining about nothing. Sorry but it's true.

Guess what??? I've never tried to get DLD tix before due to not being able to go. First time trying and never experienced this stupid shit before. Therefore, I'm pissed and done with the dumbasses. Oh, and I have the right to be pissed if I damn well please.

On another note, I'll fucking enjoy the KBS I got yesterday fair and square (and for five fucking dollars).

[Driftwood]

Founders is a much bigger brewery than Three Floyds.

I guess you should be pissed at Lolla and stop supporting them if you don't get goldens?

[getrowdy]

Drank the Labyrinth black ale last night. Not by myself. Excellent!

[Audiobully]

Founders is a much bigger brewery than Three Floyds.

I guess you should be pissed at Lolla and stop supporting them if you don't get goldens?

Apples and Oranges. If I don't get a golden ticket, I have every chance to still get a ticket at a higher price. A more similar comparison would be aftershows. The only difference is that Lolla aftershows with super high demand generally do will call only and needing an ID to prove you are indeed the person who bought the ticket. That prevents scalping and other type things.

If I lose out when that's the situation, I could care less. I don't like not knowing is all. I was really, really looking forward to taking my dad to DLD and to have it sell out (or so they say) at 12:00:01 seems rather odd.

[PulpAffliction]

You didn't get a DLD ticket, so you now have every chance to still get a bottle or a ticket at a higher price.

[PulpAffliction]

Quit fucking whining, and drink a beer.

[Driftwood]

You didn't get a DLD ticket, so you now have every chance to still get a bottle or a ticket at a higher price.

Yeah basically this.

[Driftwood]

It's not a giant conspiracy dude - people travel from California to DLD. Did they announce how many tickets they sell?

[claypoolfan]

Man, I drank a lot of awful green beer yesterday. It was turrible.

[Driftwood]

Drinking a 120 Minute IPA right now. Nom nom nom.

[Audiobully]

I am drinking beer dudes. Got the seasonals from Central Waters, Sand Creek and Founders. Good shit.

[Audiobully]

Drinking a 120 Minute IPA right now. Nom nom nom.

God I wish they still distributed to Rockford. Oh Well.

[falcozappa]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3297/3612279803_1f24186500.jpg

Very good indeed, but nothing like 120min.

[Greg Nasty]

I don't really think I like hefeweizens all that much.

Thoughts?

[falcozappa]

Do you like bananas?

[Greg Nasty]

Generally, yes.

[falcozappa]

How about Belgian ales? It may be that you don't like yeasty beers.

[Greg Nasty]

See, I really like Belgians.

Maybe it was just a case of me not liking the particular brew I had.

It was Flying Dog's In-Heat.

One of the rare times I've drank a "good" beer and just thought, "I really don't get this"

[falcozappa]

Interesting. And you didn't drink it from the bottle?
Have you had other hefeweizens?

[Greg Nasty]

Totally drank it from the bottle.

I did it wrong?

[falcozappa]

See, I really like Belgians.

Maybe it was just a case of me not liking the particular brew I had.

It was Flying Dog's In-Heat.

One of the rare times I've drank a "good" beer and just thought, "I really don't get this"

I've not had In-Heat. It seems to get reasonable reviews (http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/68/2249) on beer advocate, but there are plenty of more highly rated hefeweizens. (http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/89)

[falcozappa]

Totally drank it from the bottle.

I did it wrong?

They're usually poured into a tall pint glass that's thin at the bottom but very wide at the top so that you get a big foamy head. This adds a bit of aroma to the experience. Although I do like to drink a beer from the correct glass, I do admit that it can become a little pretentious. But it definitely makes a difference for some beers.

http://www.beerquest1k.com/Assets/GlassFranziskaner%20Dunkel%20Hefe-Weissbier%20in%20Weizen%20Glass.JPG

[Driftwood]

Greg try Weihenstephaner Hefeweizen before you give up on the style. Probably the gold standard for the style and I think it's about $11 a six pack (you can also get the larger bottles for under $3). Tucher is another good option for cheaper. Ayinger if you want it really banana-y.

[Driftwood]

Also Live Oak Hefeweizen when in Austin is a must.

[Driftwood]

Also it's a style that really benefits from a glass and an aggressive pour because the yeast tends to separate and it provides a lot of the banana / clove notes

[claypoolfan]

Also not a big fan of hefeweizens, but my girlfriend tells me that the Sierra Nevada one is actually pretty good for a commonly-available cheaper brand.

[getrowdy]

Who wants to go drink beer tonight?

[teekoh]

Monday at Hopleaf I tried Brooklyn Brewing's Sorachi Ace (very good), FFF Cimmerian Sabertooth Berserker (yummy) and Green Flash Hop Head Red (meh+).

Over the weekend we made it out to Piece and Revolution where I was able to try the Barrel Aged Repo Man. So so good.

[falcozappa]

Monday at Hopleaf I tried Brooklyn Brewing's Sorachi Ace (very good), FFF Cimmerian Sabertooth Berserker (yummy) and Green Flash Hop Head Red (meh+).

Over the weekend we made it out to Piece and Revolution where I was able to try the Barrel Aged Repo Man. So so good.

Sorry I missed you guys. I had that too - great minds taste alike.

[teekoh]

It's all good. Had I thought about it sooner I would've tried earlier to see if you had plans. We'll be there some time soon, I'm sure. What else did you try?

I also grabbed a sixer of Zombie Dust and a bomber of Cypher to take home.

[Driftwood]

Berserker is back on tap?
Was KBS around too?

[Driftwood]

I only recall 4 times in recent memory having the same beer twice in one night at Hopleaf: 120 Minute, Berserker, Darkness and the Cigar City collaboration brew (what a great beer even for $10).

Would put all of those as 5s on Falco's beer rating scale (120 Minute on tap in particular - could be a 4.5 out of bottle)

[Driftwood]

Also all four of those trips were with boarders 120 Minute (buzz and arbee), Darkess (getrowdy), Berserker (pulp, falco and getrowdy) and Cigar City collab (falco).

Good times at Hopleaf. :)

[PulpAffliction]

Last night I had:

Evil Twin Soft DK (on tap!)
Ayinger Ur-Weiße
Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock

Delicious evening. Definitely drank them in the wrong order, but I'm not that upset about it.

[teekoh]

Berserker is back on tap?
Was KBS around too?

Yes
No

[markdurr]

Also Live Oak Hefeweizen when in Austin is a must.

representin'

also TK brought a huge haul from new orleans, LA. granted she isn't the most knowledgeable when it comes to beers, she did a nice job.
i personally gave her money for Hitachino. a guy runs a mini mart/beer station down the street from me. he often has Bells, 3Floyds, Russian River, Founders, ect. to trade (illegal to sell. :/)

therefore my haul was:
15 Espresso Stouts
4 White Ale bombers
3 Red Rice Ale bottles

i am definitely hanging out to quite a few of the Hitachino. i really want to see if he'll have some hopslam, or zombie dust. anything of the like.

[markdurr]

currently treating myself to:

Tin Roof
Perfect Tin Amber Ale:
http://www.tinroofbeer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/brews_can_bg.png

[marQ]

Anybody try Pipeworks End of Days milk stout? Opinions?

[markdurr]

ALSO:
http://beer47.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/hitachino-espresso-stout-2094.jpg

that is a delicious stout. i tried it for the first time last night and lovvvved it. wonderful mix of espresso, chocolate, smoked malt.

[Driftwood]

Anybody try Pipeworks End of Days milk stout? Opinions?

I tried it - beer was all over the place but in a good way. Would encourage trying if you like the Dogfish Head approach to brewing. Pass if you are more of a purist. Split the bomber with a friend.

[falcozappa]

Nice, where did you try it? I've not managed to get anything of theirs since those samples around a year ago. I agree that they taking a DH approach, although I'm expecting some decent Belgian styles from them too, in the fullness of time.

[Driftwood]

They were selling bottles at Binnys near GI Clybourn.

1 per customer. "Friends" got free bottles I think.

[getrowdy]

http://www.guysdrinkingbeer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/moleocho.jpg
http://www.popsonhops.com/mike/wp-content/labyrinth.png

Got these two at the Sauganash Whole Foods tonight. Third bottle of labyrinth I've bought. It's so good!

[teekoh]

We'll be at Fountainhead for the Dark Horse takeover in a little bit. Good list.

[scottyh]

We went on the Oskar Blues brewery tour this weekend. They give out free cans of Deviant to everyone involved. Also I tried Double Dry Hopped Deviant. Nommmm.

[teekoh]

Attn: Chicago beer people

The barrel-aged Plead the Fifth is the business. If you don't come out tonight, Fountainhead is doing flights of whatever they have left over tomorrow.

[claypoolfan]

Got really excited when I heard about the Old Town Pour House (http://www.oldtownpourhouse.com/). However, even with 90 taps it looks like most of them are pretty boring, and way too expensive where they're not.

[Driftwood]

Attn: Chicago beer people

The barrel-aged Plead the Fifth is the business. If you don't come out tonight, Fountainhead is doing flights of whatever they have left over tomorrow.

Yeah that's a pretty fantastic beer.

[teekoh]

I had that and the special reserve Black Bier. They were both delicious, but the above was way too good.

The lady had the oatmeal stout and the not-barrel-aged version. Love Dark Horse.

[Driftwood]

Non-barrel aged is really good stuff too. Always grab a 4-pack when I see it. Bargain for that quality RIS.

And yeah Special Reserve is very solid - wish more people did 7% ABV Black Bier / Schwarz Bier / Black Lager.

Want to try the 4 Elf if it is still on.

[teekoh]

Yeah, that and the Sasparilla Six looked good. I got to smell the Sasparilla cuz the server brought it to me by accident instead of the barrel aged. Like a really creamy, vanilla-y root beer.

[Driftwood]

Scored a ridiculous beer haul that included Dark Horse Double Crooked Tree, Bell's Hopslam, Oskar Blues Ten Fidy and Central Waters Bourbon Barleywine. :)

[stupka32]

I have only tried one of those.

[claypoolfan]

Scored a ridiculous beer haul that included Dark Horse Double Crooked Tree, Bell's Hopslam, Oskar Blues Ten Fidy and Central Waters Bourbon Barleywine. :)
Care to share where from?

[Driftwood]

A liquor store by my hotel in Madison, Wisconsin.

Last two don't even distribute to Chicago.

[falcozappa]

Better drink that Hopslam quickly, before it goes bad.

[alady]

Pretty sure we get Central Waters in Chicago.

[Driftwood]

Oh right we do now (and have been for almost a year) - do we get the bourbon barrel stuff in bottles? I've seen the stout on tap.

[alady]

Ah, I don't know about the bourbon barrel stuff specifically but we do get the brand.

[falcozappa]

Yeah, I have some BB aged CW stout at home. Yum!

[stupka32]

Better drink that Hopslam quickly, before it goes bad.

What?!?!?! I was planning on saving lots.

[Driftwood]

Barleywine is ranked higher. Bring the stout and we can share both. :)

[Driftwood]

What?!?!?! I was planning on saving lots.

Do not save. And stick it in the fridge if it's even going to be 2 months after purchase.

[falcozappa]

I'm sure it'll continue to be delicious, but the hoppiness of IPAs diminishes with time.

[falcozappa]

Barleywine is ranked higher. Bring the stout and we can share both. :)

Sounds good to me.

[stupka32]

Do not save. And stick it in the fridge if it's even going to be 2 months after purchase.

I put 3 6-packs in right away. I am sure it with be gone within 2 months

[falcozappa]

...if you need any assistance making them go....

[markdurr]

seriously. send some of hopslam or zombie dust this way.

monies will be sent in return.

[scottyh]

Sixpoint is coming to Chicago

http://chicagoist.com/2012/03/28/sixpoints_sexy_cans_coming_to_chica.php

[PulpAffliction]

seriously. send some of hopslam or zombie dust this way.

monies will be sent in return.

Oh, God. I would give so many monies for some fresh Zombie Dust.

Zombie Dust >>> Hopslam

[teekoh]

If you meet me in Iowa I could get some to you over Easter.

[Driftwood]

Guys this Central Waters Bourbon Barleywine. Tastes like a $15 bomber beer and I think it was $11 a 4-pack? Lulwut?

Also the Tallgrass Tripel is pretty nice and fruity too (Tripel in a 16 oz can? OOOF) and was $9 for a 4-pack of 16 oz cans.

[reedeeda]

OMG!

[ChiCity]

I drank awful beer at Busch Gardens today. Now I am kicking back with a 120 minute IPA

[PulpAffliction]

If you meet me in Iowa I could get some to you over Easter.

......what city? Aimes? Des Moines? This is possible. And I could give you beer to give to Drifty...

[reedeeda]

If yer in DM over Easter, we should all meet up for a beer.

[teekoh]

......what city? Aimes? Des Moines? This is possible. And I could give you beer to give to Drifty...



If yer in DM over Easter, we should all meet up for a beer.

I'll be closest to Des Moines, about 45 minutes south. We're driving up early Saturday morning and leaving Monday afternoon, so I imagine the best chance would be Saturday afternoon. Not sure how much time we'll have since the lady will probably want to hang with her family, but a swap could definitely happen.

Or y'all could just come to Peace Tree for the night. :)

[Driftwood]

I drank awful beer at Busch Gardens today. Now I am kicking back with a 120 minute IPA

Are you really? Because if so that's awesome.

[Driftwood]

You should all meet Teekoh at Peace Tree and get some Hop Sutra. That's a seriously awesome beer.

[scottyh]

Are you really? Because if so that's awesome.

I bought 2 bottles of 120 Minute the other night. And 2 bottles of Pliny. It's been a delicious IPA week so far.

[ChiCity]

Are you really? Because if so that's awesome.

Yes it was delicious...

[Driftwood]

It's even better on tap I think. Get some at the Lodge next time it's on. I think it's a little cheaper on tap too.

[ChiCity]

I think I may have at the Invasion.

[markdurr]

can we have a board beer meet up in new orleans?

also i had some Hitachino White Ale while studying for my spanish test yesterday evening.

[markdurr]

http://www.thebrewsite.com/images/beers/red-chair-nwpa.jpg

i'm trading my local mini mart 2 Hitachino Espresso Stouts for 2 Founder's Breakfast Stouts tomorrow. i am excited.
i love that mart.

[teekoh]

Anybody interested in heading to Fountainhead tomorrow night for the sours?

[alady]

Have any of you seen the Goose Island Bramble Rye in bottles? A friend in StL let me know he found some bottles, but I haven't seen it (admittedly haven't been looking).

[falcozappa]

Definitely haven't seen it. Maybe this is the week to use my Goose Island Groupon Google Offer.

[genghisnyc]

http://www.beerandcider.com.au/images/beer/innis_gunn/oak_aged_rum_cask.jpg

this was really good.

[Driftwood]

Really sad genghis did not partake in the beer tastings at ATP. :(

[genghisnyc]

i heard portishead played that festival.

[PulpAffliction]

Someone e-deliver a Geuze to my desk, pluhz.

This time-sheet is rapidly killing me.

[Driftwood]

Guys I had the most wonderful cocktail at Merchant yesterday. It was a play on a hefeweizen. They had a lemon wedge, the egg white caused a frothy head. It was cloudy and the right colour too - but even more delicious as it had lemongrass kombucha and earl grey tea liquer. And $6 to boot as they were debuting their spring cocktail menu yesterday. :) We also got bought a free round for being patient. Really want to start Cocktail Advocate.

Also they were giving away complimentary punch made from rose, acai liquer and watermelon at the end of the night. So refreshing.

[alady]

That's clever.

Have you been to any other good places this week?

[falcozappa]

http://www.beerandcider.com.au/images/beer/innis_gunn/oak_aged_rum_cask.jpg

this was really good.

Yeah, I think they're one of the first Scottish breweries (aside from Brewdog) to catch onto the barrel ageing thing. Which is surprising, given how many whiskey barrels must be kicking around there.

irt Drifty, I think beer cocktails are going to be the new big thing.

[Driftwood]

Cocktails weren't anywhere near as good but I really dug the vibe at Natt Spil. Food (dim sum) was good too.

Pizza Brutta and New Orleans To Go (very spicy) where good quick eats.

Distillery was a ton of fun before the show.

Good crepes and french presss coffee at Bradbury's. Did the chocolate and beer pairing at Great Dane. Himal Chuli. French toast at Cafe Crema. Another trip to Vintage Brewing ...

But yeah we went to Merchant 3 times in 4 days (though only for one drink on 2 occasions - their basic Whiskey Sour was phenomenal).

Been a great trip. :)

Not sure if we are stopping in Milwaukee for Noel Gallagher before returning to Chicago tomorrow. Really enjoyed High Noon Saloon. Cheap drinks, good taps, friendly bartenders.

[Driftwood]

Yeah, I think they're one of the first Scottish breweries (aside from Brewdog) to catch onto the barrel ageing thing. Which is surprising, given how many whiskey barrels must be kicking around there.

irt Drifty, I think beer cocktails are going to be the new big thing.

Well it wasn't a beer cocktail at all as there was no beer in it. They just enjoy being playful.

[Driftwood]

Also someone please review the sours at Fountainhead if they go.

[alady]

Really enjoyed High Noon Saloon. Cheap drinks, good taps, friendly bartenders.

Glad to hear this :)

Some friends did a New Glarus getaway this weekend, am curious to hear how that went.

[Driftwood]

That is one hell of a brewery (went on a prior trip). Very impressive.

Also love how even the sketchy dive bars support the fuck out of it.

Might have to do bowling while drinking Raspberry Tart / Belgian Red one day.

German / Swiss food was good too.

[alady]

They stayed somewhere that had a polka band playing Saturday night.

Love it.

[Driftwood]

Also Merchant has the best cheese curds. Battered in Ale Asylum Hopalicious and a dipping sauce containing stout and bacon? Yes please. Cheese itself was fresh too.

[alady]

Oh wow. Those sound amazing, but in terms of basic curds, Blue Moon are the ones to beat.

It's funny because I spent the weekend with a friend who lives right near Merchant but wasn't familiar with it at all.

[falcozappa]

Hungry now

[Driftwood]

You are telling me. Was too lazy to leave for lunch so I had a Ten Fidy. Best / worst decision.

[teekoh]

So really, we're gonna head to fountainhead in a few if anybody wants to join us.

[getrowdy]

If my back was better I would go. I've got to spend some time with the heating pad tonight. :(

[falcozappa]

Always love a Fountainhead, but I'm off to Kasabian in a bit.

[PulpAffliction]

Last night while watching the game:

Free State Iron Man Imperial Stout
St. Louis Gueuze Fond Tradition
Great Divide Espresso Oak Aged Yeti

[scottyh]

How'd you like the Yeti? They had a cask aged version of that last week at the brewery. So good.

[PulpAffliction]

My second time having it, actually. I really love it - smoky, bittersweet and just the right mouthfeel. Right up there with the Schlafly (Ethiopian) Coffee Stout as my favorite of the style.

[scottyh]

Well now I need to try that Schlafly. I don't think it's available in Colorado. :(

[PulpAffliction]

It's pretty much completely out of stock around here now, too. If I find another sixer, I'll stick it in the cellar and bring it with me when I pick my sister up from Fort Collins in May.

[scottyh]

Highlight of the morning is the news that I may meet you in May.

[Greg Nasty]

Highlight of the morning is your alliteration toward the end of that post.

[scottyh]

:)

[Audiobully]

Last night while watching the game:

Free State Iron Man Imperial Stout
St. Louis Gueuze Fond Tradition
Great Divide Espresso Oak Aged Yeti

I want one of these.

[Boomy]

Oh, God. I would give so many monies for some fresh Zombie Dust.

Zombie Dust >>> Hopslam

Saturday night was 3F's night for me:

Two ZDs
One Gumballhead

Also had two Oberons, so I veered off a bit. Everything was on draft--tasted extra fresh and snazzy! ZD on draft FTW.

[getrowdy]

Drinking one of these right now. I only have one more left. :(
http://thebeerfan.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/lagunitaslittlesumpinwild.jpg

[claypoolfan]

Sitting in Sheffield's right now enjoying a brisket sandwich and some flossmoor panama red, bout to go to the Brian Boru next.

[falcozappa]

Nice. Have you had the brisket sandwich at Hopleaf? I don't normally think of a brisket sandwich as anything special, but they've turned it into art.

[Driftwood]

Guys - do not fall asleep on this Central Waters Bourbon Barleywine if you see it at a store (I'm going to call around - buy an extra 4-pack for me and I'll pay you back if you see it).

Am an idiot for not picking up more than a four pack - stands up to the best Barleywines at FOBAB and was only $11 a 4-pack.

Still have one more to share with y'all and one to age.

[PulpAffliction]

BUY ME ONE, DRIFTY BOY.

[scottyh]

I'm trying to think of a Barleywine I've drank that was memorable. None are coming to mind. :(

[Driftwood]

Except for bourbon aged varieties I usually prefer English barleywines (as some American versions are just darker malt bill Double IPAs) - you should be able to find some JW Lees I'd imagine (gold standard for the English version).

[fiveiron83321]

since i am back in Chicago I am going to try and wrangle some Zombie Dust

[Driftwood]

You should at least be able to find it on tap somewhere via beermenus/chicago

[claypoolfan]

Now I'm at Rocks drinking Racer 5. It had turned into a good beer heavy weekend.

[falcozappa]

Picked up Cable Car Small Batch Pale Ale today on a whim. Looked interesting and was very cheap - we'll see how it fares.

[scottyh]

Picked up New Belgium Shift last night. It's pretty decent if you're drinking outside. A bit overpriced for what it is, though.

[Boomy]

since i am back in Chicago I am going to try and wrangle some Zombie Dust

Sweet--if you get some send it my way, too.

[teekoh]

Peace Tree's got a Bourbon Oak-aged version of their Porter on. It's toooooooo good. All sorts of vanilla/smoky deliciousness.

Imma see if I can bring a growler back.

[getrowdy]

drinking a new glarus IIPA. my last one. damn! it's good.

[Boomy]

Bought a six-pack of this tonight:

http://www.beerfm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/New-Belgium-Dig.jpg

[concertgoer]

Hi Boomy!

[Boomy]

Yo CG. Gearing up for Coachella, I take it???

[Andrew_VB]

how is that new belgium spring seasonal?

[Boomy]

I like it a lot. It's the second time I've picked up a sixer. I like Fat Tire and the seasonal beers from NB, so it's in my wheelhouse.

[concertgoer]

Yes
Three more days and then I am Cali bound!

[Boomy]

Yes
Three more days and then I am Cali bound!

Fug Yeah!

[scottyh]

how is that new belgium spring seasonal?

Dig? Much better if you can find it on tap.

[Andrew_VB]

interesting, thanks for the tips. i remember not liking whatever replaced 2 below this year. will try to find some dig as i've generally been a big new belgium fan.

[Boomy]

Dig? Much better if you can find it on tap.

Agreed--but I tend to take that stance on most beers.

[Beefy Toe]

http://www.savorsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Sam-Smith-Oatmeal.jpg

Excellent.

Edit: Paired with both carrot and chocolate cakes tonight.

[danzip53]

Has anyone has any Against the Grain beers from Louisville in Chicago yet? They claim they have their beers at several Chicago bars so I was just curious...also their beer is delicious

[falcozappa]

http://www.savorsa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Sam-Smith-Oatmeal.jpg

Excellent.

Edit: Paired with both carrot and chocolate cakes tonight.

Good stuff. One of my local breweries. I like how you can get so many of their beers over here, but I'd love to see some available on draft somewhere. Ideally on cask.

[scottyh]

http://www.dogfish.com/files/imagecache/bottleGridSize/palo-santo-marron.png

[falcozappa]

Uncanny. Just about to get one of those out of the fridge ready for Game Of Thrones.

[Driftwood]

Bottles by definition are uncanny.

[falcozappa]

It took me a moment there, but have a well deserved http://cdn.brownstoner.com/4dee5ca25d7f0-ba_dum_tsh.jpg

[Boomy]

http://beer.findthebest.com/sites/default/files/675/media/images/Zombie_Dust.jpg

[scottyh]

I'm gonna need to locate some of that when I'm in town.

[fiveiron83321]

http://beer.findthebest.com/sites/default/files/675/media/images/Zombie_Dust.jpg

i got some too when i was home :)

sitting in the basement in chicago...have to get my mom to send it soon

[scottyh]

90 Minute IPA

[Greg Nasty]

Bottles by definition are uncanny.

Oh dear, I love this post.

[scottyh]

I went beer shopping last night:

75 Minute IPA
90 Minute IA
Mikkeller Green Gold
Green Flash Le Freak
Bruery Saison de Lente
Lost Abbey Carnevale

[falcozappa]

Still never seen or tried the 75 minute. I need to remedy this sometime.

[scottyh]

Neither have I. I'll report back.

Also: if anyone wants beer from Colorado that cannot be purchased in Chicago, let me know. I'll be checking a bag on one of my 3 upcoming trips.

[claypoolfan]

I was in Whole Foods last night and they had a few bottles of the 120 Minute IPA.

I went to grab a couple of burgers to grill later, came back from the butcher, and all of them were gone.

I wept openly in the beer aisle.

[Boomy]

How much time elapsed for those to go so fast?

[Driftwood]

I was in Whole Foods last night and they had a few bottles of the 120 Minute IPA.

I went to grab a couple of burgers to grill later, came back from the butcher, and all of them were gone.

I wept openly in the beer aisle.

There was plenty at Binny's Lincoln Park last I checked. Just 1 per customer limit.

[Driftwood]

Neither have I. I'll report back.

Also: if anyone wants beer from Colorado that cannot be purchased in Chicago, let me know. I'll be checking a bag on one of my 3 upcoming trips.

Russian River. Russian River. Russian River.

But really - just bring a few bottles and we'll have a beer sharing night of all our #rare shit.

[claypoolfan]

Literally me walking by, going oooooh look at those, walking straight to the butcher from there asking for two burgers and getting them, being like hey you know what would go great with these burgers? Those beers. Walking back, and they were gone.

That being said, they were selling them in individual normal sized bottles and there were only three of them so someone probably just grabbed them all.

A woman also grabbed all the pretzel buns right in front of me while I was texting my girlfriend asking if she wanted pretzel buns. Pretty much got robbed left and right.

[Driftwood]

That's the only size they are sold it - 12 oz individual bottles. Beer is 18%. You can share one. $10 a pop.

[alady]

Russian River. Russian River. Russian River.

But really - just bring a few bottles and we'll have a beer sharing night of all our #rare shit.

Yes this. I have so much stuff sitting around. When are you in town, scoots?

[scottyh]

Russian River. Russian River. Russian River.

But really - just bring a few bottles and we'll have a beer sharing night of all our #rare shit.

Will do. I'll see if I can get some Pliny.