The Beer Thread

[getrowdy]

Being St. Patrick's Day and all... a good day to start talking about beer.

[stelles75]

Yes, yes... About to head uptown for some belgians.

[Driftwood]

Aw man this was my thread. Boo.

[getrowdy]

Oh no. I'm sorry. Can I delete it so you can start it?

At any rate, I'm bringing Some Three Floyd's Brian Boru Old Irish Red Ale to a party tonight.

[Driftwood]

Lulz I don't really care.

Oh Brian Boru is great. That and Great Lakes Conway are the two Irish Reds that I will give props to.

[TheCountofMonteDisco]

Guess I should be drinking, aye?

[getrowdy]

I had a Great Lakes Commodore Perry last night. It was quite enjoyable.

This was suppose to be in reply to drifty. I don't understand that function.

[stelles75]

All I have to say this morning is, fuck the Irish. My lord... Jamesons is rarely a good idea. Definitely not on that level. I'm too old for this, Riggs.

[kells bells]

Jameson isn't possessive!

Also, I think I found a new favorite bar yesterday. It had $2 Guinness, but that's not the only reason I love it.

[getrowdy]

Jameson isn't possessive!

Also, I think I found a new favorite bar yesterday. It had $2 Guinness, but that's not the only reason I love it.

Maybe it was a special? Sounds too good to be true. Are you going to tell us the name of it?

[kells bells]

I thought it was a special, but it's definitely not.

Christina's Place at Kedzie and Grace. Kinda out of the way, but it's great. The owner is an awesome Irish bastard named Rory.

[stealyourcarbon]

I used to live near there. Nice little hole-in-the-wall.

Also, after yesterday, I'm not drinking for awhile, but if I were, I'd be driving to Four Firkens next Tuesday to get the new O'Dell's Mercenary Double IPA. I sampled it last week and it is fantastic.

[kells bells]

You used to live here?

Why aren't you drinking for a while?

[stealyourcarbon]

You used to live here?

Why aren't you drinking for a while?

Yeah, I was in Chicago from 2005 to 2008.

I just drank a lot yesterday and I feel like garbage. I'm also trying to lose some weight before this destination wedding I'm in in April and I know beer has been my downfall. I'm sure I'll cave soon enough though.

[dmwade]

Christina's is an excellent bar. Can't beat $2 Guiness, all day, every day. Plus, they have karaoke on Saturdays - with a pretty decent song selection too.

[WretchedSkye2113]

http://www.mastodonrocks.com/sites/mastodonrocks/files/merch/preview/detail_beerstein.jpg

...I have never wanted something so terribly bad in my whole life.

[kells bells]

Christina's is an excellent bar. Can't beat $2 Guiness, all day, every day. Plus, they have karaoke on Saturdays - with a pretty decent song selection too.

Does it have food? They had a spread of Irish food yesterday, but I couldn't tell if it usually offers grub.

[falcozappa]

Darklord Day tickets went on sale ten minutes ago and are sold out already. I didn't manage to get one. :mad:

[getrowdy]

Bought some New Glarus today in WI. I got a four pack of the Apple Ale and something called Smoked Rye Ale. Hmmm.

[falcozappa]

Nice. I picked up some of their Snowshoe and their Coffee Stout last weekend, neither of which I've had before.

[dmwade]

Does it have food? They had a spread of Irish food yesterday, but I couldn't tell if it usually offers grub.

Not sure if it usually has food or not - never been there early enough to have need of the kitchen. That Irish spread was just a special St Pattys thing as far as I know.

[kells bells]

Well, yeah.

[brynrich]

I'm sure this was covered on the old board, but have any of you tried Big Flats yet?

[kells bells]

Nope, but Mr. Nasty has.

I just came across this today, too. Goose Island brewmasters taste it (http://www.avclub.com/chicago/articles/walgreens-big-flats-beer-with-goose-islands-brewma,52694/).

[brynrich]

In the past 24 hours I've heard several real-life friends mention it, noticed it at the store, and saw it in Friday's Red Eye. Got me wondering how it really is...

[kells bells]

If only it were so cheap that it didn't matter if you bought it, drank one, hated it and got rid of the rest.

[brynrich]

As you can tell, I was only mildly curious.

[Driftwood]

Enter an XRT contest for a six-pack.

[falcozappa]

Picked up some Founders KBS for the first time ever today. Can't wait to try it.

[Driftwood]

Picked up some Founders KBS for the first time ever today. Can't wait to try it.

Save a bottle for me plzzzzz.

It's on tap at The Publican.

[falcozappa]

I certainly will. I was lucky to pick it up at all - I was already buying some other beers, and I happened to see a 4 pack behind the counter (but not on display - on a very low down shelf with just books and other personal items). I asked if they were going to be selling it, and they said they were already, and that they only had two packs left. I said I'd take one pack, and I don't know where they went to pick it up from, but it definitely wasn't on any of the shelves in the store.

I'd love to try it on tap, but The Publican is not the easiest place to get to for me.

[getrowdy]

Last week I picked up the Brian Boru, Wilco Tango Foxtrot and another Mikkeller Beer Geek Brunch Weasel at Whole Foods. I was in Whole Foods tonight and all the Weasel was gone.

[Driftwood]

Kinda mad at myself for thinking this but Revolution > Haymarket.

[falcozappa]

Last week I picked up the Brian Boru, Wilco Tango Foxtrot and another Mikkeller Beer Geek Brunch Weasel at Whole Foods. I was in Whole Foods tonight and all the Weasel was gone.

I've been enjoying Brian Boru on draft at quite a few places.


Kinda mad at myself for thinking this but Revolution > Haymarket.

I've yet to decide - pretty even so far. Both a little pricey for food, and (for me) a little inconvenient to get to, especially Haymarket. But I like the beer pricing at Haymarket - it's easier to try lots of different beers. They also have a really good guest list.


Anyone doing the Rock Bottom tapping tomorrow?

[kells bells]

Kinda mad at myself for thinking this but Revolution > Haymarket.

In terms of food, beer, overall?

[falcozappa]

I'm guessing in terms of beer. Also, does Haymarket do casks?

[kells bells]

Yeah, I figured Driftwood would dig the veg-friendly offerings at Revolution.

[Driftwood]

Oh on vibe Haymarket wins because Revolution is always ridiculously packed and you've got to wait. I love that they have the 4oz pours for everything but you have sample pours of the Revolution beers as well (yeah it is $2 flat so not a good deal for the lower abv beers but it is there). I've enjoyed food at Revolution more but have only eaten at place once.

Guess I should wait and see till Pete has the barrel-aged stuff up and running (his real strength) but he seems to be using Amarillo on everything (and dry-hopping styles with Amarillo that usually have balance). Wish he would go back to using Simcoe more (like at Rock Bottom). I mean Mathias is still a world class beer but it is the only beer I have had that makes me want to tell people to go. This last time every beer had basically the same hop profile and resiny taste and the balance when the body came was the only distinguishing factor (the dry-hoped tripel was MUCH better than at Polar Beer Fest - it would be even better without the dry-hopping - tasty sweetness).

And while the guest list is larger at Haymarket, I still haven't seen anything that I must have off of it (Revolution had Zombie Dust on tap just recently) and they've just ventured all over the place in their beer styles offered (plus Eugene on cask as a stand by is always great). Strongly considering getting a $25 membership there.

[falcozappa]

Strongly considering getting a $25 membership there.

Yeah, I was thinking I might make my money back just on growler refills. Talking of which, I should try to take advantage of the two growlers for $20 deal on Tuesdays that Half Acre have.

[Driftwood]

Do you have to get one of their growlers for their growler fills there?

[scottyh]

http://beerimages.pintley.com/19417/Grand%2520Cru_22_HR_large.png

Stockpiled this stuff before it goes away. I'll have to ration. :(

[stupka32]

I still have one dancnig man left that I have rationed through the winter

[Nature Boy]

I still have one dancnig man left that I have rationed through the winter

Racist

[teekoh]

Srsly laughing a lot right now.

[dij22]

For all the C-U people, has anyone tried the new Murphy's Stout? It's so bad.

[falcozappa]

Do you have to get one of their growlers for their growler fills there?
No, last time I used one of theirs plus a Piece one. The only place that I know which allows you to use only their growlers is Rock Bottom. I've yet to get a growler from either Revolution or Goose Island, so I don't know what their policies are.

[falcozappa]

http://beerimages.pintley.com/19417/Grand%2520Cru_22_HR_large.png

Stockpiled this stuff before it goes away. I'll have to ration. :(

I seem to recall having this on draft somewhere recently. I've yet to have a Great Divide beer that I haven't loved.


I still have one dancnig man left that I have rationed through the winter

I think I have three in my New Glarus selection box, but I haven't opened it up yet.

[Driftwood]

No, last time I used one of theirs plus a Piece one. The only place that I know which allows you to use only their growlers is Rock Bottom. I've yet to get a growler from either Revolution or Goose Island, so I don't know what their policies are.

Oh I thought you were talking about Revolution (not Half Acre).

So where have you gotten them beyond Rock Bottom - Half Acre, Piece (I have empty growlers that could be filled)?

[falcozappa]

Just those three places in Chicago. I have three Growlers, so I don't feel I should need to buy anymore, but it'd be nice if everywhere accepted all the other ones. Its the only real mark against Rock Bottom. Talking of which - free beer there tomorrow.

[alady]

What's that?

[Greg Nasty]

Free beer when?

Might have to do that before the Warpaint show...

[falcozappa]

Rock Bottom tapping. I'll be there from around 5pm, although the official kick off will be 6pm.

[kells bells]

That sure sounds nice. I haven't been to the Rock Bottom here in a minute.

[falcozappa]

If you like your beer a) good and b) free, then I heartily recommend it.

[alady]

What's free?

[kells bells]

It means you don't have to pay.

[falcozappa]

The beer.

[alady]

You all are a bunch of sassypants.

I mean which beers are free.

[falcozappa]

Tomorrow they're tapping their Smoked Marzen. Sounds good to me.

[getrowdy]

Oh my god. I just tried the New Glarus Smoked Rye Ale. It's wonderful! Very scotch-like. Especially nice with some aged gouda. I likey!

[scottyh]

Tonight:

http://atlantabeermaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Great-Divide-Colette.jpg

[jcfrank2]

For all the C-U people, has anyone tried the new Murphy's Stout? It's so bad.

1. No it's not.
2. What's new about it?

[falcozappa]

Off to Rock Bottom shortly. Nobody else a fan of free beer, then?

Also, this event at Haymarket looks like it could be fun:

http://chicagoist.com/assets_c/2011/03/2011_03_21haymarketreenactment-thumb-554x850-609068.jpg

[alady]

I wanna dress up.

[teekoh]

I don't, but I'll play an anarchist for the day and get drunk.

[scottyh]

Anything to give me proper excuse to wander the streets of Chicago with a Molotov cocktail.

[getrowdy]

I want to be an Anarchist for a day!

[teekoh]

We should call up Vericuester to get tips.

[Greg Nasty]

We should call up Vericuester to get tips.

Worst anarchist.

[markdurr]

goose island selects busch to increase production (http://beeradvocate.com/forum/read/3645461)

hmm. i'm curious to see how this pans out.

[getrowdy]

$38.8 million

[markdurr]

yea that is crazy.

whats also crazy is that goose island sold 112,000 barrels to anheuser busch's 87.5 mil barrels in a year.

i know i'm wrong when i say this, but i really hope this isn't going to be a trend for microbreweries around the u.s.

[Driftwood]

Excited for the Fountainhead event tonight.

Thet GI buy-out probably isn't going to change anything except helping get BCS to the far corners of the world.

[falcozappa]

It'd sit easier with me if it wasn't a majority stake that had been sold.

[Driftwood]

i know i'm wrong when i say this, but i really hope this isn't going to be a trend for microbreweries around the u.s.

The alternative is to pull out of markets when demand gets too big (Three Floyds, Surly). I mean I'm sure there is a "happy" middle and all but ...

[markdurr]

i know, i was shocked to hear about three floyds. the girl who was up in chicago called to tell me that whole foods wouldn't hold any three floyds for her because the demand was too high.

but at the same time there has to be someway to meet in the middle. i know this is the easiest way, but there has to be a better way for the actual brewery sans a major corporation.

in the article they made it sound like nothing was going to be changing that much, but i think they were trying to make it easier to digest for the beer knurds.

[Driftwood]

There was big stink when that first 32 odd percent got sold to the AB affiliate but if anything Goose Island has been able to get many more of their better beers bottled (Belgian sours, versions of BCS etc) and regular BCS is available in CA and Europe.

[markdurr]

well thats good to hear.

how long ago were the first 32 sold?

[falcozappa]

Excited for the Fountainhead event tonight.
I think I'm going to be able to go to this, although I probably shouldn't stay out too late. What time were you thinking of going?

[Driftwood]

Sorry - misremembered my numbers - 42% sold and AB owns 32% of that (according to the article).

Happened in 2006, BCS hits West Coast in 2008.

Although on wiki it says Greg Hall is leaving as brewmaster? Bummer sauce - I only skimmed the article so I must have missed that. Hopefully most of the team is still staying.

[Driftwood]

I think I'm going to be able to go to this, although I probably shouldn't stay out too late. What time were you thinking of going?

Oh we will be there early - pretty much going the moment Nicole gets back from work so we'll be there at 5 or so. Will wait till Surly gets tapped if that is a later tapping but in that scenario it would be our last drink (so done at 8:30 max, if not sooner).

[falcozappa]

Sounds good to me. I won't be able to get there as early as you, but leaving by 8:30 sounds good. I'm fine with a short session.

Does it say where Greg Hall will be moving to? Or if he is retiring?

[Driftwood]

No future plans announced as far as I can tell - sure this will be discussed to death tonight among the patrons (Phil is anti-GI apparently as it is yet BCS will still be served lol).

Btw England vs Sri Lanka? Yikes.

[alady]

I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing. Could possibly mean that we'd get Goose Island back at Pitchfork (or even Lolla).

[alady]

Looks like Brett Porter (formerly of Deschutes) will be replacing Hall? This is not a bad thing.

[Driftwood]

Deschutes? Feeling a little better already.

[Driftwood]

But seriously - it would suck if he was ousted.

[Driftwood]

I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing. Could possibly mean that we'd get Goose Island back at Pitchfork (or even Lolla).

Glass half full (of BCS).

[alady]

Yeah (http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/food/stew/chi-goose-island-brewery-selling-20110328,0,2429454.story).

[falcozappa]

Btw England vs Sri Lanka Wales? Woohoo!!!
.

[falcozappa]

I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing. Could possibly mean that we'd get Goose Island back at Pitchfork (or even Lolla).

But were they only offering 312, or were there more interesting choices? I'd be more than happy with plain old GI IPA being available.

[Driftwood]

So GI Clybourn will still be Hall owned. Fulton vs Clybourn just went up another level.

[Driftwood]

But were they only offering 312, or were there more interesting choices? I'd be more than happy with plain old GI IPA being available.

IPA was available - for $4 at one point.

[scottyh]

If I can get 312 in Denver, I'll be happy.

[falcozappa]

For American pale wheat beers, I think Gumballhead is my favourite.

[markdurr]

Gumballhead probably tops my list as well.

and the fact that Deschutes dude is going to be on the GI crew is actually pretty exciting.

also in other beer news. I was approached by the specialty (wine, cheese, and beer) team leader from my store. she told me that our current beer buyer is stepping down, and she would love to see me apply for the position, which is pretty exciting. i'm sure i will apply for the position, but not sure if i will get the job. we shall see.

[Driftwood]

That sounds awesome.

In other news - can't wait for my friends to open their beer store. Hopefully they will be at Fountainhead today.

[alady]

That's awesome, Mark - hope it happens!

I do not care for Gumballhead.

[Greg Nasty]

I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing. Could possibly mean that we'd get Goose Island back at Pitchfork (or even Lolla).

Lolla is for Hoegaarden plz.

[Five_Hole]

Here are Greg Hall's thoughts on AB courtesy of TOC (http://timeoutchicago.com/restaurants-bars/13374729/greg-hall-talks-about-goose-island-and-anheuser-busch?CMPID=twTimeOutChicago).


Minutes after Goose Island sent out the press release about being acquired by Anheuser-Busch, my inbox was flooded with emails of concern from people—not food media mind you, but normal everyman Chicagoans expressing dismay at their local beer company getting swallowed up by a brewing giant. Greg Hall knew this would be the natural reaction, so he called me to try and set the record straight.

TOC Respond to the idea that you guys “sold out.”

Greg Hall People said we sold our souls in 2006 when we signed a distribution deal with AB but look at what’s happened since then. We are still craft brewers. That year we had just brought out Matilda as a seasonal and were eventually able to make it year-round. We introduced Bourbon County Stout and since then we were able to add variations on it, as well as add Sofie, Fleur, Juliet, Madame Rose, Pepe Nero and Nightstalker. That kind of innovation and dedication to producing craft beers is what drew AB to us.

TOC So how did the deal go down?

GH About six months ago we hired an investment banker to find money to help build a new brewery to keep up with demand. I mean, last year we had to kill three brands—Nut Brown, Oatmeal and Christmas—because we just couldn’t keep up with demand for everything. But as we found people who had the money to help us, they all wanted control and we didn’t want to give up control for obvious reasons. Then our friends at Anheuser-Busch, who’ve done a great job helping build our brand, called and said ‘let's talk.’ We said ‘Before we talk we want to make sure you know we want to keep brewing in Chicago, management in Chicago, decision-making in Chicago and we want to grow brands and add capacity.’ And they said ‘Great, that works for us.’ They’ve told us they’re committed to us because of who we are. I sat across the table from Dave Peacock [president of AB USA] and said ‘Why Goose and not Sam Adams or someone like that?’ and he said ‘We like your beers, brands and innovations, what you’re doing and want to do with beer and food and we like that you’re in Chicago.’

TOC Now what changes?

GH I hate to say nothing changes. Miguel, a brewer who has worked for us for 20 years, walked in to my office and asked the same thing: Is it going to change? And I said ‘Miguel, when’s the last year that nothing changed?’ and he said ‘Things change every year.’ Exactly. So we’ll continue to evolve by introducing new brands. Like we’re about to release Big John, because with AB helping us add capacity it will enable us to add new stuff and keep up with the growth of brands like Matilda, which has grown 100% in each of the last three years. [As for] immediate change, they’re going to help us buy a bunch of new outside 400-barrel tanks so we can make more beer. Other than that, probably the biggest difference in the short term is we’ll have even better distribution. We’re not adding new markets because we expect we’ll get better distribution in existing markets.

TOC And what about long term?

GH Well, we’ll see how the short-term capacity fix works and then it might be time to look toward a new, bigger brewery. And for me personally, I’m going to be here until April 30 in a brewmaster capacity then after that I’ll be on board as an advisor on beers, branding and strategy, working a minimum of three or four days a month.

TOC So you’ll just sail off into the sunset on the deal?

GH This was my ray of sunshine through the clouds. When you think about this, my father had worked for Container Corporation of America since his early ‘20s and had seen it grow while his influence with that company grew. And in the late 80s his company was sold and he had the opportunity to stay on but he had two kids in school so he hung it up and started his own thing, starting Goose when he was 45. Well, I’m 45, I have two kids in school and I’ve worked with same company since my 20s. So this is perfect timing. It gives me money to start something new and a little bit of flexibility. I can’t really talk about what I’ll be doing for another month or so but it won’t be beer. Think about it—if Goose Island was my Mt. Everest, climbing Mt. McKinley would be boring. I’ve already done the beer stuff. I’ve created a new style in bourbon stout, I’ve brought wild fermentation beers to a food community and the masses and there’s gotta be at least a dozen Goose brewers working as head brewers around the country and I’m terrifically proud of that. Now it’s time for something else.

[Driftwood]

Seriously what has happened post-2006 should be the benchmark. I know this is a majority stake versus a minority one but it doesn't make sense for AB to invest the first time around and then try and ruin it the second time around.

Also looks like Greg was ousted at all and this was a conscious choice on his part. That makes me happy.

[Driftwood]

I'm not saying a little part of me isn't disappointed - it sucks that AB is entering (Bud American) and investing in craft markets on the one hand and slamming craft beers in their ads on the other (those beers with so much flavour are hiding flaws lol). I just don't think there is any reason to think GI's quality will suffer.

[getrowdy]

I think I might stop by The Fountainhead after work.

[falcozappa]

I'm not saying a little part of me isn't disappointed - it sucks that AB is entering (Bud American) and investing in craft markets on the one hand and slamming craft beers in their ads on the other (those beers with so much flavour are hiding flaws lol). I just don't think there is any reason to think GI's quality will suffer.
I think it may be a case of "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em". There has been very little percentage growth in the economic markets recently to compare with the craft beer boom.


I think I might stop by The Fountainhead after work.
Cool. See ya there.

[Driftwood]

Pretty sure Fever Ray was playing at Fountainhead.

[kells bells]

Tried my first Great Divide at the Local Option on Saturday. Pretty delish.

[scottyh]

Which beer did you try?

[kells bells]

Belgica. Yum.

[markdurr]

i bought a sixer of Divine Reserve 11 yesterday (dub IPA) nothing too exciting.
i am more excited about my sixer of DR10 aging in my closet.

i also had summer pils on tap last night at the St Arnold brewery. love that beer.

[alady]

The BeerAdvocate gathering is this Sunday at the Clybourn Pub from 3-6pm. I wanted to let you all know that John Hall will also be at Clybourn on Sunday from 4-5pm during the gathering to have beers with all of you and field questions you may have about the news we shared earlier this week. Brett Porter will also be there throughout the event so that you all can have a beer with him and ask him about his take on beer and brewing.

As for what beer Goose Island will be sharing, we'll have our Four Star Black Saison on tap. 6.2% abv and brewed with pale, rye, chocolate, and special b malts, this farmhouse ale is hopped with pacific gem hops and has an aroma and taste dominated by notes of chocolate, pepper and dark fruits like figs and dates.

[Five_Hole]

As for what beer Goose Island will be sharing, we'll have our Four Star Black Saison on tap. 6.2% abv and brewed with pale, rye, chocolate, and special b malts, this farmhouse ale is hopped with pacific gem hops and has an aroma and taste dominated by notes of chocolate, pepper and dark fruits like figs and dates.

I had some of this last weekend and really enjoyed it.

[markdurr]

so i had my first founders double trouble last night. mmmm, that was good.

i'm thinking about doing a "99 bottles of beer on the wall" blog. more so for a good reason to drink 99 different beers, but also so i can bring it up in my interview when i interview for the beer buyer position.

[Audiobully]

Double Trouble is awesome. I actually love Founders as a whole. Backwoods Bastard is their best beer in my opinion.

[WretchedSkye2113]

omgomgomg

just found out that the Bling Pig Co. is having a Stone Brewing tap special next Thursday.

so. freaking. excited.

[Willy]

New Glarus Spotted Cow and Fat Squirrel still hands down my top two beers.

[hansford]

love spotted cow.

not sure if it is "top beer" quality, but I always drink it when it is available.

[falcozappa]

love spotted cow.

not sure if it is "top beer" quality, but I always drink it when it is available.
Agree on both counts. It's a good session beverage.

[getrowdy]

reliable

re: spotted cow

[Krentistthedentist]

love spotted cow.

not sure if it is "top beer" quality, but I always drink it when it is available.

Yeah, it was always my favorite when I went out w/ the finance club lawl.

[kells bells]

Goose Island dude also is at our Jewel on the 8th, but I'll be werkin.

Got some Aprihop tonight because why not? Never had it.

[Greg Nasty]

What is "Goose Island dude" doing at Jewels?

[WalterWhite]

Is ta henket available in bottles anywhere?

[kells bells]

What is "Goose Island dude" doing at Jewels?

I dunno...just saw the poster. Maybe pimping some samples? Maybe...maybe.

[alady]

Ooooh, I looooove Aprihop.

So, question. I've had some Abita Strawberry sitting around my house for like...a year probably. Still good?

[kells bells]

If you're a little squeamish, I know someone who would want it.

[teekoh]

omgomgomg

just found out that the Bling Pig Co. is having a Stone Brewing tap special next Thursday.

so. freaking. excited.

I know I'm wrong, but I really hope it's a Bling Pig.

Also, the only Founders I've had was a porter which I enjoyed.

[alady]

I need to have a party or something and clean out the back stock.

C'mon over and drink some old beer, you guys.

[WretchedSkye2113]

had Delirium Tremens and Dark Horse Oatmeal Stout tonight at Blind Pig.
delicious. and surprisingly intoxicating.

[kells bells]

I need to have a party or something and clean out the back stock.

C'mon over and drink some old beer, you guys.

I will do this, as long as you don't have the beer taking up your whole couch and floor space like dirftwood.

[kells bells]

had Delirium Tremens and Dark Horse Oatmeal Stout tonight at Bling Pig.
delicious. and surprisingly intoxicating.

:

[WretchedSkye2113]

..h'wat?

i dont even...just for bling pig?!

[alady]

I will do this, as long as you don't have the beer taking up your whole couch and floor space like dirftwood.

Nonono. It's not a Hoarders situation over here. I'm organized.

Some of the stuff has probably benefited from the aging, too.

[hansford]

can you buy spotted cow in chicago?

[hansford]

Some of the stuff has probably benefited from the aging, too.

i feel like that abita isn't one of those.

[alady]

can you buy spotted cow in chicago?

No. :(


i feel like that abita isn't one of those.

I suspect you are right.

[hansford]

No. :(



when do you go home again?
if it is close to a time I will be up there I might try to sweet talk you into picking up a sixer for moi.

"love you"

[alady]

Probably around Easter.

I'd be happy to do that "for a friend".

[hansford]

omj ima be up there easter weekend.

[alady]

Done and done.

[getrowdy]

I go up (to WI) almost every weekend for sheep herding training.

[hansford]

oh well shit.

[discountsounds]

Wine Discount Center sent out a newsletter this morning offering Unibroue La Fin du Monde for $7.99 per 750ml bottle or $89.99 per case of 12 with a free La Fin du Monde glass.

Not sure if those are good prices, but figured all y'all Beer Queers would want to know.

[Driftwood]

I have groupons for there that need to be used.

If you want to give me some wine recommendations a PM would be much appreciated.

[discountsounds]

Forgot to mention: not sure if the offer pops up on their website. If not, PM me with an email address and I'll forward.

[discountsounds]

So pissed I missed out on that Groupon. PM your email Draughtwood; posting from my BB is a royal pain.

[kells bells]

Hey I just bought some Abita Strawberry. I think I'll drink one and watch the White Sox and pretend it's summer.

[scottyh]

I want to watch the White Sox game. Damn work and lack of televised Sox games.

[alady]

I would just like to be drinking a beer.

[kells bells]

I would just like to do both and rub it in yo faces.

[arbee]

http://www.shanemacaulay.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/st-patricks-beer-hoegaarden-ss.jpg

[WalterWhite]

Hey I just bought some Abita Strawberry. I think I'll drink one and watch the White Sox and pretend it's summer.

That is my wife's current beer of choice.

[getrowdy]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WzyRC-60LEc/TYfLqkFrHKI/AAAAAAAAF08/qCuKPkUF9TY/s400/maharaja.jpg

I bought this because the label was pretty. Has anyone tried it?

[WalterWhite]

Yeah. It is the shit.

[arbee]

Driftwood?

[WalterWhite]

http://i.imgur.com/unrAI.jpg?

[teekoh]

I'mma go to Binny's tomorrow, I think. I need something to drink during tomorrow's baseball/basketball games.

[Driftwood]

Which binny's?

[teekoh]

Probably Orland Park. I think that's the closest one to me.

[stealyourcarbon]

Tickets to St Paul Summer Beer Fest procured.

http://www.stpaulsummerbeerfest.com/

[Nathan Wind]

had Delirium Tremens and Dark Horse Oatmeal Stout tonight at Blind Pig.


I've been to the Blind Pig twice and had a grand old time. Currently on the Citra of Brewdog's IPA is dead 4 pack:

http://www.brewdog.com/blog-article/ipa-is-dead0

Went to a Brewdog launch night the other day for one of their new ales. It was just ok unfortunately.

The IPA is dead is however bang on.

[Driftwood]

Someone drive me to Goose Island. I'm feeling lazy.

[teekoh]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WzyRC-60LEc/TYfLqkFrHKI/AAAAAAAAF08/qCuKPkUF9TY/s400/maharaja.jpg


Picked one of these up today, plus a six-pack of Two Brothers Monarch. My Binny's was already out of the Left Hand they got in and the 400-lb Monkey. :(

[Pablo Éluard]

Tickets to St Paul Summer Beer Fest procured.

http://www.stpaulsummerbeerfest.com/

:( I miss by 36 days, damn my age.

Are Schell's any good? I know they just bought Grain Belt and I've been loving Nordeast.

[Willy]

can you buy spotted cow in chicago?

All New Glarus products are sold in WI only. If hu are ever up in the Madison area I highly recommend goin to New Glarus (10-15 miles sw of Madison) and doing the brewery tour. The quality and the attention to detail blew me away.

[Driftwood]

Jesus that was far too much fun. Best GI experience ever.

[kells bells]

Why was today any better?

[Driftwood]

Best food. Everyone brought really good beer. Not too many people.

[Driftwood]

Also the story. Woah.

[kells bells]

One of these days, Alice...

[Driftwood]

Is dis a popular song?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsrfovOPcjk

[kells bells]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV1zul2aCM8

[Driftwood]

I knew what you were talking about I just wanted to know if you've heard that song before.

[kells bells]

no way jose.

[Driftwood]

Yeah huh.

Also I saw Glasses Man on Thursday and Friday.

Also it was a doppleganger on Thursday.

[kells bells]

And you didn't say hi?

[Driftwood]

Yeah I did. On Friday. On Thursday Bryn stared at him for a while and he looked annoyed.

[kells bells]

Because it was a doppelganger?

Also, I don't think he told me he saw you on Friday. At the Riv?

[Driftwood]

On the Lawrence bus after the show.

[WalterWhite]

save it for queen doppelpopolis!

[kells bells]

Ohhh. With his mistress.

[Driftwood]

Yeah I didn't want to say anything about the strange lady.

[getrowdy]

Yes the event at goose island was great. You are all losers for not showing up. Lots of good beer, the brewers were there, also the "owner" (for a little while), the food was excellent. Not too crowded. And and the crazy rich girl story.... verified.

[stealyourcarbon]

:

Are Schell's any good? I know they just bought Grain Belt and I've been loving Nordeast.

I love Nordeast.

Schell's is pretty good. It's cheap. Their 150th Anniversary Ale and their Zommerfest are really good. Firebrick is good too, for a lighter option.

[Driftwood]

Yes the event at goose island was great. You are all losers for not showing up. Lots of good beer, the brewers were there, also the "owner" (for a little while), the food was excellent. Not too crowded. And and the crazy rich girl story.... verified.

I'm honestly not buying. Imma research.

[teekoh]

I had a couple of Monarchs tonight. They were very good, but had a weird, almost salty finish.

[falcozappa]

I'm honestly not buying. Imma research.
Any results?

[Nathan Wind]

I knew what you were talking about I just wanted to know if you've heard that song before.

My parents are friends with one of Smokie. They were pretty big in the 70s and still tour. The song is just "Alice" but a comedian appropriated it into his show with added swearing. It became the first song to have the word fuck in it reach the UK top 10. Previously their tour bus crashed and their then singer died. All the royalties from that version of the song were then given to his widow.

[falcozappa]

Smokie (or one or two of them) used to frequent my local pub before it closed down. It reopened recently, so maybe they'll be back.

[getrowdy]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WzyRC-60LEc/TYfLqkFrHKI/AAAAAAAAF08/qCuKPkUF9TY/s400/maharaja.jpg

I drank this tonight. DAmn good!

[teekoh]

I'm gonna drink mine tomorrow night. Pretty excited.

[Driftwood]

There's plenty of me to go around guys.

[teekoh]

Ha.

[Driftwood]

Any results?

No. :( (well not really :( ).

Also Falco what was that tiny sip of beer you handed me?

[alady]

This is Friday:

Silver Cloud Bar & Grill invites you to our exclusive stout tasting! Home Brew Competion winners The Kasablanca Brew Team worked in conjuction with New Holland Brewery and Louis Glunz Beer to bring you the inaugral tapping of their winning brew the "Tall Dark & Handsome Stout". We'll be tasting this along side of the Old No. 38 stout, the St. Ambroise Oatmeal Stout and The Poet Stout. Join in all the action at Silver Cloud Bar & Grill. Only $1 per person for all four tastings! We'll kick things off at 7pm. After all who can resist the tall, dark and handsome.



Please contact our Event Coordinator at chicagoevents@rocketmail.com or (773) 716-7200 to sign up.

Limited space available. Guest must RSVP in advance to attend.

[getrowdy]

Also Falco what was that tiny sip of beer you handed me?

Is that code for something?

[falcozappa]

Is that code for something?
The red fox flies by night.


No. :( (well not really :( ).

Also Falco what was that tiny sip of beer you handed me?
Hmmmm. I remember the one you mean, but I forget the name.

[scottyh]

Great Divide is introducing their seasonal brews this weekend. One is completely new, I think. Really want to try it soon.

[stelles75]

http://blog.skimkim.com/wp-content/upload/pbr.jpg

[scottyh]

Best cheap beer.

[stelles75]

Awww... was trying to get a rise outta ya, but I failed. :D

And yes, it probably is. I drink a ton of it.

[BearDownBoilerUp]

I used to really not enjoy PBR but since moving to the city I've come to love it. I can't tell if its because I had no choice, or if it actually is better than the rest.

[LXscope]

I used to really not enjoy PBR but since moving to the city I've come to love it. I can't tell if its because I had no choice, or if it actually is better than the rest.

I'm surprised you posted this in this thread. Watch out, the beer snobs are gonna eat you up!

[scottyh]

I like PBR and High Life if I'm going to drink cheap beer. I can't stand Bud Light.

[BearDownBoilerUp]

I like PBR and High Life if I'm going to drink cheap beer. I can't stand Bud Light.

Oh my god those are my two favorite cheap beers, too! Where do we go from here?

[stelles75]

High Life, the shampoo of beers. I used to like it, but I find it extremely offensive anymore. That, MGD and Miller Lite... can't do it. Bud Light is my staple.

[scottyh]

We can always think back to this moment when we get into future disagreements.

[kells bells]

Pretty common opinion among the non-meatheads, though.

[dmwade]

Yep, if going on the cheap, PBR & High Life are the way to go. Bud Light, Miller Lite, etc just don't compare.

Did grab a 6er of GI Summertime over the weekend. Love summer seasonal time - GI, Sam Adams, New Belgium and many others have outstanding summer seasonals.

[scottyh]

People in Denver look at me like I'm a heathen when I buy a PBR. It's $1.50 a can - why the hell wouldn't I get PBR?

[BearDownBoilerUp]

Pretty common opinion among the non-meatheads, though.

awwww, kells called me a non-meathead!

<3

[kells bells]

awwww, kells called me a non-meathead!

<3

I was going to amend the statement, but I really don't know anything about you, Danny, and that's OK with me.

[BearDownBoilerUp]

I was going to amend the statement, but I really don't know anything about you, Danny, and that's OK with me.

It's OK that you accidentally gave me an almost-compliment, or that you don't know anything about me?

[Driftwood]

BDBU for ROTY!

[stelles75]

Both probably.

[getrowdy]

Yep, if going on the cheap, PBR & High Life are the way to go. Bud Light, Miller Lite, etc just don't compare.

If I'm going to drink cheap beer it better be freezing cold. That's the main criteria.

[markdurr]

lone star > pbr > pearl > old style (cheap beers)

i am having a modelo especial while sitting outside right now. wish i could make it a michelada right about now, but can't...

[teekoh]

PBR is good for cheap. I like MGD, though, but that's probably because it's been the staple in my family forever.

[BearDownBoilerUp]

MGD is one of few beers that I refuse to drink.

[LXscope]

Is Heineken considered a "cheap beer"?

[BearDownBoilerUp]

no

[jcfrank2]

lone star > pbr > pearl > old style (cheap beers)

Great logic! All four are owned by the same company, which outsources their production to a brewery that just changes the cans and labels on the line.

[kells bells]

Preeeetty sure I could tell the difference between PBR and Old Style.

[teekoh]

I've decided that the Monarch is not good, which is a first for me from Two Brothers.

[kells bells]

Is Heineken considered a "cheap beer"?

Kinda.

[LXscope]

Kinda.

I think in Europe it's definitely "the" cheap beer, from my understanding.

[alady]

My friend went out with a dude tonight who, when ordering a beer, was baffled by the (not that extensive) menu and was like "I'd normally get a Bud Light, but I want to try something different...can you bring me something that tastes like a Sam Adams?"

I lull'd.

[Greg Nasty]

High Life, the shampoo of beers. I used to like it, but I find it extremely offensive anymore. That, MGD and Miller Lite... can't do it. Bud Light is my staple.

Seriously?

I don't think I've ever had it without vomiting.

Awful.

[alady]

Don't mean to nitpick but when did we start using "anymore" like that? Feel like I've seen it used that way a few times on the board lately.

[kells bells]

Don't mean to nitpick but when did we start using "anymore" like that? Feel like I've seen it used that way a few times on the board lately.

I've been noticing it more often anymore, and I still hate it anymore.

[WalterWhite]

Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."
.

[carligula]

Don't mean to nitpick but when did we start using "anymore" like that? Feel like I've seen it used that way a few times on the board lately.

A friend of mine has been using it that way since I met her over 10 years ago. Definitely a pet peeve of mine.

Speaking of beer, it appears that Blue Moon is no longer using cute nicknames for their seasonal beers. I bought a case of the yellow-labeled "Summer Honey Wheat" the other day. I assume it's the same as the Honey Moon I drank last year. According to the website, Harvest Moon will now be the "Harvest Pumpkin Ale". I guess they figured if they couldn't come up with a Moon-themed name for the Winter Abbey Ale and Spring Blonde Wheat Ale they wouldn't use it for any of them. Still, a rose by any other name...

[stelles75]

Don't mean to nitpick but when did we start using "anymore" like that? Feel like I've seen it used that way a few times on the board lately.

You've probably only seen me use it that way (anymore). It's a grammatical habit of mine. Nitpick away.

[stelles75]

Seriously?

I don't think I've ever had it without vomiting.

Awful.

It's funny how people pretty much split down the middle with the big brands. Miller Lite seriously makes my stomach burn. Bud Light is just like water to me. *shrug*

[WalterWhite]

Still, a rose by any other name...

would also be owned by a brewing company that funds anti-gay initiatives?

[scottyh]

I love when people tell me that while drinking a Blue Moon. A lot of people don't see the connection.

[carligula]

would also be owned by a brewing company that funds anti-gay initiatives?

Tell me more...

Apparently Target has some shady charities as well, but I happen to buy most of my Blue Moon from them because it's across the street. I'm obviously an evil evil man.

[scottyh]

Well yeah.

[carligula]

If we didn't buy products from American companies that funded conservative agendas, what would be left?

[scottyh]

Pete Coors is really a terrible person, though.

[Nature Boy]

I'm obviously an evil evil man.

Obvious post is obvious.

[El Goodo]

If we didn't buy products from American companies that funded conservative agendas, what would be left?

So are you saying that one should not avoid supporting companies that work in opposition to one's own ideologies whenever possible?

[falcozappa]

If we didn't buy products from American companies that funded conservative agendas, what would be left?
Products from overseas companies that fund dubious agendas. Some delicious Nestlé, maybe.

[carligula]

So are you saying that one should not avoid supporting companies that work in opposition to one's own ideologies whenever possible?

I'm saying I don't really bother because I assume most major companies at some point did something I don't agree with. It comes from being skeptical and lazy.

[falcozappa]

Without wanting to sidetrack this thread too much, I'd be interested to hear people's thoughts on American Apparel.

[BearDownBoilerUp]

Without wanting to sidetrack this thread too much, I'd be interested to hear people's thoughts on American Apparel.

I don't "get" American Apparel. What separates them from Hanes?

[falcozappa]

As sartorially challenged as I am, I'm unable to answer that question. I was more interested in their business practices and general ethos.

[hansford]

I don't "get" American Apparel. What separates them from Hanes?

what separates banana republic from wrangler?

[hjkz1982]

I don't "get" American Apparel. What separates them from Hanes?

Quality. Softness. Style.

I just bought an American Apparel flex fleece hoody and it is one of my favorite sweaters I've ever owned.

[alady]

You've probably only seen me use it that way (anymore). It's a grammatical habit of mine. Nitpick away.

It's definitely not just you. That was the first time I noticed you using it anymore.

[alady]

Without wanting to sidetrack this thread too much, I'd be interested to hear people's thoughts on American Apparel.

Dov Charney is a vomitous excuse for a human being.

But they make really good tights. Or at least they used to.