Venn No One Cares Limited Release Brown Ale

Venn No One Cares Limited Release Brown Ale.

5.8% ABV, 20 IBU, Venn Brewing, Minneapolis, MN.

No One Cares about brown ales? Come on, I can name three or four guys off the top of my head. 

Dark brown coloring, large off-white head.

In the nose: soft, nutty, malty, touch of toffee, caramel and cream. Quite nice.

In the mouth: slightly sweet, minor hops, mostly malty. More nuttiness, caramel, toffee, et al. Plays nice and easy on the palate. Smooth and satisfying. More brown ales, please. 

No Gimmicks, No Hype: All-American Brown AleNo Gimmicks, No Hype: All-American Brown Ale

Malts: Domestic Pale, Cara 45, Munich 30, Chocolate
Hops: Warrior
Yeast: American Ale

Falling Knife Summer Break Pale Ale

 Falling Knife Summer Break Pale Ale. Galaxy, Citra, Simcoe, & Nelson.

5.9 % ABV, Falling Knife Brewing, Minneapolis, MN.

It’s a week before Labor Day. The mornings are getting chillier, and the leaves are poised to fall. It’s about  that I polish off the fourth can of this summer seasonal before summer is but another memory. 

And why did I pick up this one? Well, I like Pale ales and it was only $12. So tired of the $16+ over-hyped  IPAs. Let’s drink it....

All clouded up, ‘cause clarity isn’t cool. Bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: big citrus, orange and lemon, with a pinch of pineapple.Quite promising.

In the mouth: just a little juicy at the start, turning dry on the palate. Citrus tastes play big, with help from melon and grape. Light-bodied, crisp-ish, and refreshing. Tasty little one, this. I like it.

Sweetwater 420 Strain Train-wreck Hazy Double IPA

 Sweetwater Trainwreck Hazy Double IPA.

8% ABV, Sweetwater Brewing, Atlanta, GA.

All hazed-up, bright golden color, small ivory head.

In the nose: light fruity/ citric notes. Fairly quiet, all told. Let’s hope that the taste holds more.

In the mouth: just a little bit juicy, getting increasingly pulpy, bringing on loads of hoppy flavors. Spilling out orange marmalade, grapefruit, passionfruit, a bit of pineapple, a twist of mango. Stone fruit, apricot and peach, join the fun.  Bitterness is moderate, juicy/ fruity hop flavors are running the show, and now the booze enters center stage. 

I am digging this Big time.

Steel Toe Schwarzbier German-Style Dark Lager

Steel Toe Schwarzbier German-Style Dark Lager.

5.1% ABV, 22 IBU, Steel Toe Brewing, St. Louis Park, MN.

In the 10+ years of this blog, there have been only 11 appearances of a schwarzbier. And only one of them is from it’s fatherland, Germany. That would be Kostritzer. There are two from Dave’s BrewFarm, one from Japan, one from Brazil, and the rest from Minnesota and Wisconsin breweries. Hey, breweries of the world: make more schwarzbiers, because I want to drink them!

Leave it to Steel Toe to give us their version, but guys, did it have to take you ten years?

Nearly full-on blackness, almost complete opacity, short-lived brownish head.

In the nose: coffee and cocoa, together as one. Roasted malts. Toasty and sweet. So very nice.

In the mouth: the dark flavors that you would find in a porter or stout are playing in the field of dark German lagers. Toasty, roasty, coffee and a hint of cocoa and nuts.  Moderate bitterness, great balance, just  a bit of breadiness, and ever-so smooth. And ever-so tasty. 

I like a good schwarzbier, and this is one. A very good one. 

The style of Schwarzbier literally in German “black beer” originates from the Thuringia, Saxony and Franconia regions. So few German examples are exported, you may have never even come across this style. Lo and behold, the latest release in our ongoing brewers series is a true to style version. Deep mahogany in color with a ruby veil. The aroma is of chocolate and floral hops. The flavor has just enough of a dark chocolate character to provide interest, mild coffee, with a crisp dry finish. Very mild bitterness and supremely drinkable. This beer is as perfect on a hot summer day, as it is on a cool late summer night. It hits all the right highlights of a dark beer, while maintaining a light pilsner-like quality. Please enjoy our latest offering. Prost!

Color: Dark brown with ruby highlights

Aroma: Chocolate, floral

Flavor: Floral dark chocolate, clean, light on the pallet, dry mild bitterness finish.

Alcohol content by volume: 5.1%

International Bitterness Units: 22

Invictus Brewing Company & Centennial SMaSH IPA

Invictus Centennial SMaSH  IPA. And more about Invictus Brewing. 

5.7 % ABV. SMaSH IPA. Packaged 5/17/2021. Invictus Brewing, Blaine, MN. 

[Editor's note: It is now the middle of August, and I am finally going to share this post I wrote in early June about a taproom visit in late May. Because, brother, can I procrastinate.]

[Edit #2: I wrote the above on 8-15-21 and published it on 8-24, because I suck.]

Invictus Brewing of Blaine, Minnesota has appeared six times before here in the Bitter Nib. All of these were from samples dropped off by a sales rep for the brewery. (Thanks, Jon-Michael!)The first were from late 2019, and the last two were tasted and published post COVID-19 shut-down when I was no longer in any position to order beers from them. Alas, I missed my chance, for now. Maybe someday in the future I will have that power once more, and turn to them to take a spot on the taps. Wherever, whenever that may be.

Skip ahead to Sunday, May 30, 2011. And Dave feels like he's ready to go out among the public and visit some breweries. Where did I want to go? The northern suburbs of Minneapolis, starting with Invictus. This would be strange, as the city we all live in, (Dave, I, and Dave's brother, Sasha), the city of Minneapolis, had not dropped the mask mandate, but the rest of the state of Minnesota, save St. Paul, had. It would be my first time since the start of the pandemic entering a space without a mask mandate. When we reached the brewery, D. and S. put theirs on, and I followed suit. The hostess had one on, and the servers, as well, but none of the bartenders. We took ours off once finding our seats. One other human had one on, dangling off his chin.

Three days later, the mask mandate was lifted in Minneapolis. I'd wager that half the population is still wearing theirs, hedging their bets. 

That aside, I must note one regret right off the bat. I could have used some food, but didn't order some brunch from the restaurant next door, The Tipsy Steer. Why not? Can't explain myself. Another regret? Not knowing forehand that their supply had dwindled by a third. Some equipment malfunction rendered their normal 15 beer selection down to a mere 5. One was a passionfruit sour, then a cider, plus two I'd had before (the Avenger IPA and the amber ale called Blaine it On the Rain), plus a hazy IPA. I've said all that I need to say about the hazies. 

So I had the passionfruit sour, as did Sasha, and it was good, exactly as promised. I'd recommend it. But, as I've said many times, certain sours last longer than I care for, and this was one. I should have gone with a smaller sample. 

The place was full with the fine people of Blaine, Minnesota, practically bustling with them. No social distancing, they're over that stuff. Everyone is. Several TVs showed sports. It was a typical taproom, for the most part, but a bit too stuffed with the populace for me to be comfortable. What can you expect?Every community wants their taproom, even Blainians. 

So, I skipped the cider, and the hazy, although I tried Sasha's, and it was just as I expected. Had an Avenger to see if I still liked it, and I did. Excellent IPA. 

But, hearing the disappointment in Dave's voice when finding that the Centennial SMaSH was not on tap, I was elated to see that they still had crowlers of it on sale, in that cooler. And now, I will drink one. Here come the notes: 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lasting milky white head. 

In the nose: Citrus and pine galore. Lime, orange, and grapefruit. Lovely stuff. 

In the mouth: Big bitter slap from the start, then all is mellow and smooth. Malt (not specified anywhere I can find) rises up to catch time with the hops. Bitterness lingers on the palate and stays a spell. Just the way I like it. More citrus emerges on the palate, more orange, grapefruit, lemon, ending on a determined dry note. 

I love a long, lingering bitter after-taste, and I'm glad that I found it here. Yup, this is my kind of IPA.

I am curious about what other beers were available in the crowler format, but I stuck to one only. I have so many beers waiting to try, that even adding one more to that huge pile was against my best judgement. 

Of the three breweries we visited that day, I did pick up at least one beer each from them all, so I will include descriptions of the brewery and our visit along with notes on the crowlers and bottles. 

Cheers to you, Invictus Brewing of Blaine, that rare brewery based on a Victorian era poem by William Ernest Hensley. May you forever be the Master of your Fate, the Captain of your Soul. 

Out of the night that covers me,

      Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

      For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

      I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

      My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

      Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

      Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

      How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate,

      I am the captain of my soul.

Oliphant Ennui’d Citra Single Hop India Pale Ale

Oliphant Ennui’d Citra Single Hop India Pale Ale.

7.5% ABV. Oliphant Brewing, Somerset, WI.

This is perhaps a first. I am reviewing the first can from the four pack. Fixing those habits.

And at last I know the truth of the labels. Apparently, some slugs, “cellar slugs”, Josh tells me, are viewing various television programs or films. The first two in the Ennui’d  series, Galaxy and Mosaic, were based on actual, existing properties. This current one flew out of Josh’s brain. “Crime Train”, the NBC Movie of the Week. Or not. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lasting white head. 

In the nose: blast of citrus. Orange and lemon, grapefruit and pine. Pure and bright, hoppy and sunshiny. Lovely stuff. Heaven for the hophead.

In the mouth: more bright, more juicy, and a ton more citrusy. Moderate bitterness, medium bodied, easy drinking. Orange, grapefruit, lemon, and nothing but hoppy delights. Crisp, clean, bursting with hoppy deliciousness. I certainly can’t find a flaw here. Good upon good. 

I can’t say enough good things about this one. Hope they make more. 

Single Hop IPA with Citra Hops!

Shakopee Brewhall Daymonzee Maibock

 Shakopee Brewhall Daymonzee Maibock.

7.1% ABV, 31 IBU, Shakopee Brewhall, Shakopee, MN. 

I perhaps held off on this one for so long perhaps because I wasn’t in the mood for a maibock, or maybe the caricature on the label turned me off. I’m sure this Damon is a great guy, but that face, and that golf outfit... I don’t know, man. Let’s drink a beer....

Clear, amber/copper hue. Slim white head.

In the nose: malty sweetness, minor hops, all in a Tuetonic vein. 

In the mouth: more malty sweetness. Rich, almost buttery. Again, light hops. Smooth stuff, and tasty, too. I like a good maibock, and this is surely one of them. Bright and delicious. I’m enjoying this. 

Damon has turned the "new 40" and we are celebrating with a beer that captures the enthusiasm of a bright spring day - with its strong malt and honey backbone and balanced with hops we wonder where the pondering conversations will go.

Stacked Deck West Side Horizons West Coast IPA

Stacked Deck West Side Horizons West Coast IPA.

6.5% ABV, Stacked Deck Brewing, St. Paul, MN.

If there’s a West Coast IPA, I want to drink. If it’s from a brewery that rarely does them, I’m doubly interested. And this one’s been waiting too long In the queue...time to open it up....

Lightly hazed, crimson/amber color, slim, but stable, white color. Entirely the wrong look. 

In the nose: malt sweetness hits first, hops arrive on the side. Perfectly adequate for some kind of an IPA, but not West Coast. 

In the mouth: hops & malt converge in concert. There’s sweet and there’s bitter, fruity notes, and some juiciness. Hoppiness continues to play on the palate, and it lasts long into the finish. 

This is a passable IPA, I guess, but it bears no resemblance to a West Coast IPA in any way. I feel cheated. Taken. Played the fool. It seems like they had no idea what they were supposed to be doing. Can I ever trust Stacked Deck again? 

Simcoe + Amarillo

New Holland Dragon’s Milk 2021 Reserve 2

New  Holland Dragon’s Milk 2021 Reserve 2. Double Bourbon Barrel aged Stout with Madagascar & Indonesian Vanilla beans.

12.3% ABV, New Holland Brewing, Holland, Mi.

Absolute ebony, complete opacity, slim brown head.

In the nose: Vanilla pops out, loud and sweet. Chocolate hides below. Bourbon barrel effects are covered up. It’s a vanilla bomb. 

In the mouth: super sweet, though not unbearable. Full bodied, rich, dark and decadent. Vanilla is in the forefront of flavors, with cocoa slipping in from behind. Usual suspects of an Imperial, or a double  stout are missing. This one lacks, unfortunately. Needs more body, more richness, more flavors. More of a lot. It’s certainly not an improvement on the regular Dragon’s Milk.

Perennial Saison des Rêves

 Perennial Saison des Rêves.

5.2% ABV, Perennial Artisan Ales, St. Louis, MO.

Picking up this 4-pack was a no-brainer. I can trust Perennial with Belgians. It was merely $10.50. And the icing is the collaboration with Brasserie de la Senne. Or is it the cherry on top? Never mind, let’s drink it....

Slightly hazed, brilliant yellow tone, large and lovely snowy white head. 

In the nose: citrus and spice, Belgian yeast, barnyard funk and bubblegum. Maybe a pinch of banana.

In the mouth: a touch of tart at the front, followed by fruit, ending crisp and dry. Belgian sweetness lingers. Lean bodied, clean, delicious. Spicy notes hang on through the finish. Refreshing, delightful, and pretty much yum a dum dum. 

Saison des Rêves is the 2nd installment of our 10th Anniversary Collaboration series. Conceived over a series of emails with our new friend and idol Yvan de Baets we landed upon a spelt heavy saison recipe that speaks true to both of our outlooks on Saison. Snappy bitterness is coupled with a massive wave of melon and freshly cut wet grass from a dry hop of Huell Melon. Finally we naturally carbonated Saison des Rêves in cans and kegs for ultimate crushability. Drinking this beer reminds us of the freshly cut grass after a light rain of cantaloupe chunks, the first roll of a soccer ball over the morning dew on a chilly spring Midwest morning, and the version of He’s Gone from the 10/15/76 show in LA.  

Ommegang Neon Lights Hazy IPA

 Ommegang Neon Lights Hazy IPA.

4.3 % ABV, 30 IBU, Brewery Ommegang, Cooperstown, NY. 

Here I am, having another hazy, but only because it’s Ommegang. 

Lightly hazy. Bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: citrus and spice. Lemon in charge.

In the mouth: lean and lemony. It’s all about the citrus here, with some tropical on the side. Light bodied, lower alcohol...is this a session hazy? Hop bitterness is low, everything is smooth and easy-going. Do I like it, despite that it is the two styles of IPA that I eschew the most? Can't say that I do. 

Phosphorescent fruit aromas fly in this juicy, sessionable New England style IPA. Bright, refreshing,  and vividly Dry Hopped, it’s unfiltered glow will illuminate your senses. India Pale Ale. Hops: Citra. Mosaic. Topaz. Simcoe.

Modist Top Dead Center West Coast IPA

Modist Top Dead Center West Coast IPA .

6% ABV, Modist Brewing, Minneapolis, MN.

Modist made a West Coast IPA? Again? Is this one as good, or better? Let’s find out....

Mostly clear, but full of floaties. I don’t remember if they were in the first three, but this beer is not that old. Bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: bristling with citrus and pine. Orange, grapefruit, lemon. All the dankness is here.

In the mouth: hops pounce the palate, accompanied by appropriate bitterness. Enough, but not too much. Also known as, not as much as I want. Medium bodied, brief hoppy finish. Big fruit, big citrus, bitter and dry, just short of brittle. Meaning that there’s room for improvement. I like to try those attempts at West Coast IPAs by the breweries that succeed at the opposite, but I want them to nail it. This one is too juicy, nearly sweet, and doesn’t fully deliver the bitterness. I’ll go back to Alesmith, Sculpin, or Steel Toe. 

I just want them to nail it once, that’s all. Is it too much to ask?

West Coast IPA brewed with pale ale malt, Vienna malt and malted wheat then kettle hopped and dry hopped with our hand-selected Mosaic, Sultana, El Dorado cryo and Mosaic cryo. 

Odell Tree Shaker Imperial Mango IPA

Odell Tree Shaker Imperial Mango IPA.

8% ABV, 50 IBU, Odell Brewing, Fort Collins, CO.

Clear, bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: bold mango flavors hit as hard as the hops. Sweet fruity notes mix with high alpha acids. Beautiful blend with just enough of the dank. 

In the mouth: juicy malt plus grassy, citrusy hops. Mango meets citrus and a touch of the tropical. Moderate hop bitterness clings hard to the palate, sweetness hangs in the balance. It’s not too mango, nor is it too Imperial IPA. (You know, I wouldn’t complain if it were.)

Ripe, tropical mango and bright, citrusy hops combine to shake the senses in this Imperial Mango IPA. Complex hop notes of tangerine and grapefruit meld with subtly sweet mango to create a bold and juicy IPA.

Indeed The Queen Whiskey Barrel-aged Imperial Stout

Indeed The Queen Whiskey Barrel-aged Imperial Stout.

Canned: 2/06/20. 10.5% ABV, 55 IBU, Indeed Brewing, Minneapolis, MN.

Thoroughly black, utterly opaque, slim brown head.

In the nose: big cocoa and espresso. Deep and dark. Charcoal, molasses and more. Touch of vanilla. Barrel-aging effects are coming in. 

In the mouth: thick, rich, viscous. Massive mouthfeel. Some sweetness, just enough bitter, huge malt. Usual suspects at play in this RIS, all the richness and decadence, wrapped up in the whiskey barrel. All the depth is being plumbed, without going too far overboard. 

Yum, I must say, a dum dum. 

An Imperial Stout aged in whiskey barrels for 7 months, this beer pours pitch black with a creamy tan head. The aroma is a marriage of whiskey, oak, dark malts, vanilla and raisins, backed by an inviting mouthfeel full of smooth whiskey, dark chocolate, oak and vanilla flavors.

Sisyphus Tilt Warning DDH NE IPA

 Sisyphus Tilt Warning DDH NE IPA.

6.8% ABV, Sisyphus Brewing, Minneapolis, MN.

I hear you. Hey, Al, aren’t you boycotting the haze? Isn’t this your least favorite style? Even Steve said so, as I was buying it. Well, this is Sisyphus’ version, so I’m trying it out. What, was I going to buy two crowlers of Bottlecap Mosaic?

So. Lightly hazy, bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: nicely hopped. Citrus and stone fruit. 

In the mouth: hoppy, fruity flavors spilling on the palate. Apricot meets grapefruit. Minor bitterness. Good dose of malt. Smallest touch of sweetness. Very pleasant, and lacking what I look for in an IPA. Luckliy, Sam still makes the kind I like. 

Yeah, this has good hoppy flavors, but is bereft of all bitterness, so I will avoid it on tap. If that’s what you like, though, go ahead, knock yourself out. 

Lupulin Hen Pecks Fruited Wheat Ale

Lupulin Hen Pecks Fruited Wheat Ale.

5.5% ABV, 13 IBU, Lupulin Brewing, Big Lake, MN.

Highly hazed, bright crimson hue, long-lasting pinkish head.

In the nose: Strawberry? Raspberry? Nothing but berries and tart.

In the mouth: crisp, brisk, refreshing, fruity. Not to mention smooth. And not too tart, not too sweet, either. Medium bodied. Ends on a dry note. I’m enjoying this one. 

This beer is brewed in honor of Melissa, AKA Mother Hen, who not only deals with our shenanigans, but battles MS on a daily basis.  She loves raspberries and strawberries about as much as she loves us, so we brewed this fruited wheat ale. It's sweet and a little tart, just like her.  A portion of proceeds will be donated to the National MS Society to help her fight this clucking thing.  

Belching Beaver No Worries West Coast India Pale Ale

 Belching Beaver No Worries West Coast India PaleAle.

6.2 % ABV, 45 IBU.

Brewed and canned by Belching Beaver Brewing, Oceanside, CA.

I was amazed, perplexed, and delighted when I first saw this beer. A 6-pack of 16 ounce cans, 96 ounces, for $11.99. That’s unheard of. And it’s a West Coast IPA, my favorite kind. I guzzled those first five, and now it’s time to take notes on #6. And maybe get 6 more, if they haven’t sold out over the weekend.

Clear, bright golden hue, large and long-lasting brilliant ivory head. Lookin great.

In the nose: blast of citrus and pine. Grapefruit is king, with orange and lemon just behind.

In the mouth: fresh and zesty, bright and sunny, minimal malt, blessed with bitterness, overflowing with hoppy goodness. Near-perfect interpretation of the style. Good thing. I’d be sad if California breweries forgot how to make the stuff. Hop bitterness is just right here, not too hot, not too cool. Just flat out delicious.

No Worries IPA is the epitome of a true West Coast IPA, but with a twist of modern-day hops & aromas. This hop forward West Coast ale pours clear with a nice bubbly head. Aromas of dankness and tropical fruit jump from the glass. The first sip will tingle your taste buds, and as the bitterness mellows the hop flavors take over. Strata, Galaxy, Mosaic, Citra, and Amarillo hops all lend their characteristics to this delightful West Coast IPA. This crisp, balanced ale will grasp at your senses and surely enlighten your day.

Surly Get Loud! Hazy Wheat IPA

 Surly Get Loud! Hazy Wheat IPA . Fruity/ Hazy/ Thunderous.

7.2% ABV, Surly Brewing, Twin cities, Mn.

Once again, I’m finally composing notes on a beer I first acquired months ago, in a sampler pack that is no longer available. This will happen one more time. And then no more, he pledges...

(Another pledge: to hang onto my glasses, coasters, etc., with the original logo. I will not be replacing them with the new one.)

On with the beer: it’s hazy, all right, golden toned, small white head.

In the nose: soft and sweet, touch of tart, bit of fruit...banana & orange?

In the mouth: there’s wheat flavors here, and yeast, but just the barest bitterness. Okay, I get it, this one is a hazy IPA, with wheat malt, and, perhaps a Weizen yeast, but in no way does it resemble an IPA. They seldom do, these days. 

It is tasty, though, and smooth and refreshing. Decent enough and drinkable, but nothing to get excited about. This is why I am confused by the name and description.

Sometimes you want a beer to whisper. Sometimes you want it to shout. This hazy wheat IPA does the latter. Get Loud! brings the noise with a wheat ale’s fruit-forward tang and a citrus-heavy jolt of hops for a complex IPA that screams with flavor. 

Junkyard Jason Waterfalls New England IPA

 Junkyard Jason Waterfalls New England IPA. With Citra and Nelson Sauvignon. “Don’t Go, Jason Waterfalls!”

6.9% ABV, Junkyard Brewing, Moorhead, MN. 

I abandoned my ban on hazies in order to celebrate this delicious music based pun. It’s so funny! However, it’s not exactly original. There are at least 3 other beers out there of the same name. How was I to know that this was such a popular lyrical mishearing? Enough, let’s drink a beer...

All hazed out. Dull yellow color. Small white head. 

In the nose: soft and fuzzy. Citrusy. Yeasty-like.

In the mouth: A fuzzy, almost pulpy morass of an IPA. Pretty perfect rendition of the NE IPA Style, the kind I hate. As we go further, it’s brighter, happier, fruitier, white wine meets pineapple. Utterly lacking in bitterness, for those that like that, I guess. 

This New England Style IPA is absolutely splashing with Citra and Nelson Sauvin Hops! Jason Waterfalls will take your tastebuds for a wild adventure starting with a cool grape and ripe berry flavor, followed by bright hints of citrus, apricot, and tangerine. The smooth, fluffy mouthfeel of this roaring IPA will leave you chasing us for more! 

Fulton Band Together India Pale Ale

Fulton Band Together India Pale Ale .

5.7% ABV, 45 IBU. Fulton Beer, Minneapolis, MN.

You mean all I gotta do to support Minnesota’s Independent music stages is to drink some beers? Sign me up!

Clear, bright golden hue, lasting ivory head.

In the nose: Classic aromatics, a beautiful blast of citrus and pine.Fresh and floral.

In the mouth: crisp and clea,n, a barrage of exceedingly pleasant hoppiness bombards the palate. Just a bit juicy, but ending nice and dry. Some orange, a little grapefruit a little bit of lemon/lime. Light bodied, fresh and refreshing. Also, terrifically tasty. I gobbled up the first three of this pack, and I left it for can number four to take notes and exclaim, Dang, this is my kind of IPA. 

In  support of independent venues and promoters throughout Minnesota, a portion of the proceeds from Band Together India Pale Ale will go to support MNVIA.

It pours a clear golden straw with a foamy white head forming on top.  Fruity notes of grapefruit, citrus zest, a hint of pine, and sweet caramel malt.

Hammerheart Dublin Raid Peat-smoked Irish-Style Red Ale

 Hammerheart Dublin Raid Peat-smoked Irish-Style Red Ale .

7% ABV. Hammerheart Brewing, Lino Lakes, MN. 

Here we have a beer that recently showed up at the store in can form, and I could have sworn that it had appeared here in the Nib before. Nope, only the Barrel aged version. And I’m down to can #4, so let’s take some notes.

Dark brown coloring with crimson edges, nearly opaque, under a slim, brief ring of foam.

In the nose: peated malt and smoke hit first and hardest. Malty flavors lurk below.

In the mouth: sweetness starts it off, minor hop presence keeps the balance. Smooth stuff, and tasty, too. Smoke lingers long after the peat. Medium bodied with a long, malt- forward finish. I like a good peaty, Smokey Irish Ale and this is one.

Dublin Raid is an Irish-style Red Ale brewed using imported peat-smoked barley and fermented with Irish Ale yeast. 

Drumconrath Gaelforce IPA

Drumconrath Gaelforce IPA.

6.5% ABV, 72 IBU, Drumconrath Brewing, Fargo, ND. 

Clear, bright ruby red coloring, fine beige head,

In the nose: soft, malty, light bitterness. Some sweetness.

In the mouth: starts off malty, sweet, spicy. Grassy/ citrusy hop play on the palate, mixed with a slightly sweet malt flavor. This is the kind of American IPA who don't see much anymore. Almost a mix of an IPA with an Irish Red Ale. And I can dig it. 

Chimay Cinq Cents Tripel aka White

 Chimay Cinq Cents Tripel aka White aka Tripel.

8 % ABV. Bieres de Chimay, Belgium. 

Revisiting a beer I haven't had in a long time. 

Lightly clouded, bold amber/golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: fruit and spice, Belgian/ Trappist yeast. Candy sugar, bubblegum. Stone fruit and citrus. Classic.

In the mouth: Bright, bursting with fruit and spice. Belgian yeast in charge. Clean and lean. So much goodness going on here. Top notch triple. Sunshiney, boozy, sweet and spicy. Quite delicious. 

This one has never been my favorite  tripel, but my initial notes from January 2004 were unusually harsh and cruel. I gave it a 3.55/5, about 14 % below the average.  What was I on? Did I have an axe to grind  against this Trappist ale, or did I find a truly bad sample? Here are those seventeen year old notes: 

11.2 oz. bottle

Appearance; thickly opaque dark orange hue, with a full-flowering head of foam that dwindles and disappears almost immediately.

Aroma: sharp citrus, yeast, sour, must, ...that's it...

Taste: rather blase, little going on with the flavor, nothing to busy the palate.

Malt, yeast, thick citric, orangey feel, but little else, small, if any, hops, and fading flavor. Too sharp, too spicy, with little in the body and texture to balance that out. Feels drab, really, leaden, cardboard-y, actually. I don't re-visit this ale too often, so my memory is fuzzy whether this is supposed to taste so dreary.

Over halfway in, the fruitiness is broader, with more flavors swimming about, juicy, tropical fruits,pineapple, sweet, spicy, kicky...a far cry from the best tripels of Belgium. I may actually look into it, again, to investigate whether this sampling was inferior, and perhaps the brew was meant to taste much more amazingly. Until then...Chimay's is an underwhelming tripel experience.

I disagree, me of my early thirties, it's not that, it's actually pretty good. It's still not the best, but it's pretty damned good. Go drink it, people, forget what younger me said. 

Eastlake Kirby Pucker #25 Paloma-style Salted Sour Ale w/ grapefruit & lime

 Eastlake Kirby Pucker #25 Paloma-style Salted Sour Ale w/ grapefruit & lime.

? ABV, 25 IBU, Eastlake Brewery, Minneapolis, MN.

Brightish, yellow color, slim, soon-gone head.

In the nose: Sour. Salt. Grapefruit. There it is.

In the mouth: there it is, the salt, the sour, the grapefruit. Not much else. If that’s all you need, go for it. What else? Lemon...salt (I said that)...Sour (I said that too)...what else do you want? Appare ntly there is more going on than I was initially aware of of, aging on mezcal-soaked ash wood? Didn’t make an impression....sorry...ho hum. 

A modern gose, infused with ruby red, lime and orange zest matured on mezcal-soaked white ash wood

Boulevard Heavy Lifting West Coast Style India Pale Ale

 Boulevard Heavy Lifting West Coast Style India Pale Ale.

5.9 % ABV, 80 IBU, Boulevard Brewing, Kansas City, MO.

Here we have the penultimate bottle from a sampler pack. I already enjoyed the first two, so it’s note taking time. 

Mostly clear, with some chill haze, bright golden/orange-ish hue, slim white head.

In the nose: Dankness from the outset, citrus and pine aplenty. Hoppiness abounds.

In the mouth: Big, bracing bitterness grips the palate. Lush, juicy malt rushes in. Hop flavors never quit, but the bitter bite mellows and all ends nice and smooth. Candied fruit emerges and melds with the sticky icky. The dank reigns supreme. Right on the money, almost. But, close enough. Delicious. 

Our take on the West Coast-style IPA but in the Mid-coast. Expect grassy and resinous aromas with plenty of assertive bitterness. 

Malt: Pale malt, Munich malt, Chrystal light

Hops : Chinook, Cascade, Centennial 

Able Raspberry Hibiscus Wheat Ale

 Able Raspberry Hibiscus Wheat Ale.

5% ABV. Able Seedhouse + Brewery, Minneapolis, MN.

Clouded, light crimson color, perfect raspberry tint, slim white head on top.

In the nose: Tart and sweet, together. Berries are here, with a hint of hibiscus.

In the mouth: again, tart starts it off, with sweet berries behind. Fruit and tart at play on the palate. Minor bitterness, medium bodied, with a soft, dry finish. Smooth, refreshing, well-balanced. Never too anything, this, and easily enjoyed.

Wheat Ale conditioned on Raspberry and finished with Hibiscus

Rockwell Kazimierz Foeder Baltic Porter

 Rockwell Kazimierz Foeder Baltic Porter .

9.2% ABV. Rockwell Brewing Co., St. Louis, MO.

Complete blackness, utter opacity, slim brown head. 

In the nose: malty, rich, dark fruit, cocoa, gorgeous and inviting.

In the mouth: flavors from aroma unfold on the palate. Nothing but rich, smooth, chocolatey, full bodied, with a silky, malt finish. The alcohol is rising, now, bringing that pleasant feeling to the brain. Unfortunately, I’m not picking up anything foeder-y, ...maybe a touch, but ...not much.

Other than that, this my kind of beer. Bring on the Baltics!

Warpigs Bouffant Jellyfish American Sour Ale

Warpigs Bouffant Jellyfish American Sour Ale. With passionfruit and pink guava added. 

5.5% ABV, 13 IBU.

What on earth is a bouffant jellyfish and why does it look like an eldritch elder god? Who cares, let’s have a beer....

Clear, bright golden, slim white head.

In the nose: tropical fruit and tart from the start. Sweet and sour, together at last.

In the mouth: ooo, big pucker. Tart and fruit do a tango on the palate. Light bodied, fruity, refreshing. Tasty little number, here. If tropical fruit sours are your thing, by all means. 

Emerging from the depths like a long forgotten playlist, but this beer is no nightmare. This tantalizing American Sour Ale is a dream come true

Unmapped Cosmic Tiara Pale Ale

Unmapped Cosmic Tiara Pale Ale.

5% ABV, 48 IBU. Unmapped Brewing, Minnetonka, MN.

I didn’t get it at first, but the name of this beer is an anagram of the hops used. That classic duo, Citra and Mosaic. Can’t miss, right?

Mostly clear, with a slight chill haze, bright golden hue, large white head that settles quick. 

In the nose: bold citrus notes, orange, grapefruit, lime. Beautifully expressive.

In the mouth: nice dose of bitterness up front, grapefruit clings to the palate. Light bodied, crisp, clean, exceptionally refreshing. Hop bitterness hangs in for the long haul. Long, wonderfully bitter finish. There will probably be some who may take issue with the after taste, but not this Hop-head. I do enjoy a good pale ale and this is certainly one.

Delicious and delightfully downable. I’ll be back for more. 

Some say its an anagram for Citra & Mosaic. Others say its the beer of choice for interstellar royalty. We just think its a delicious sessionable pale ale! 

Cosmic Tiara is a crushable new addition to our year-round beer lineup. Subtle malt notes pair with a cascade of juicy and citrus fruit flavors that derive from healthy helpings of Citra and Mosaic hops.

Get ready to blast off- and don't forget the headgear!

Samuel Smith's Organic Pale Ale

Samuel Smith's Organic Pale Ale.

5 % ABV. 31 IBU. Samuel Smith's Old Brewery Tadcaster, Yorkshire, England. 

Over ten years into this blog thing and I'm still working on closing the gap on Samuel Smith's, one of my longtime favorite breweries. Let's drink a fairly fresh pale ale and look back at my long-ago notes later. 

Clear, coppery/bronze coloring, slim white head. 

In the nose: Soft and slightly sweet. A mite bit buttery, butterscotch, even, but not from any flaw. This is intentional for the style. Some fruitiness, touch of citrus.

In the mouth: Crisp and clean. Ever so slight hop bitterness, more malty. Malt and hops make for excellent balance and supreme drinkability. Medium bodied, very smooth and mellow. Perfect example of an English pub ale, pale ale par excellence. 

That's what I think now. But I had different thoughts in February of 2003, when I posted this to BeerAdvocate.com: Pours a huge, and well-retained creamy head, with a pale amber color. Aroma is soft, slightly floral, faint fruitiness, some citrus, but very mellow in the hop department. Overall, a sweetish palate, practically nil on the bitterness scale. 

Light texture, very easy mouthfeel, lacks some substance. Doesn't need any really, for the purposes of this style. It's a pub ale, with not so much flavor to take your attention from the football or the darts. Slightly coppery, tangy taste, a little buttery.

My least favorite Samuel Smith's beer, just too mild and pale for my taste, although perfect for what it tries to be. I compare all "pale ales", sometimes unfavorably, against hoppier American craftbrew versions.

Man, what a jerk I was! I gave it a 3.38/5, 13% below the average. Ignore what I said18 years ago. What a terminal snot. 

A delicately flavoured golden ale in which subtle fruity esters from the Samuel Smith yeast strain interact with a background of maltiness and fresh hops. Brewed with water, organic malted barley, organic hops and yeast; fermented in ‘stone Yorkshire squares’.

Wooden Ship Weather Report Hazy IPA

And here we have the first appearance here in the Nib of Wooden Ship Brewing in the Linden Hills neighborhood of Minneapolis, the latest new brewery in our city. (Although...do they predate Stormking? Not sure.)

This crowler was purchased on my late-July, Friday night visit to the brewery and was chosen because it was only available in crowler form, having run out on the tap line. Why pick this one, not one of my favorite styles? Good question. I could have chosen something I might have praised a little higher. But, I didn't. Perhaps a desire to grab it before it's gone? Silly me, a hazy IPA isn't going away. Or, is it? 

Also, I was going to save this to link in with a post with a larger emphasis on the brewery itself. That will come soon. I made another trip to this charming little joint south of Bde Make Ska and west of Harriet, and perhaps I'll adjoin one of those crowler reviews to my overall thoughts on the business at large. 

A question remains. Is the name of this beer a reflection on the "cloudy" nature of the Hazy IPA style, or because the folks behind the brewery are fans of Wayne Shorter, Joe Zawinul, Jaco Pastorius , et al? 

Wooden Ship Weather Report Hazy IPA.

5.8 % ABV. Wood Ship Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

All hazed up. Pale orange color. Not much head, if any. 

In the nose: Soft and slightly citric. Not too much happening here. 

In the mouth: Here come the hops. They're doing a fine, funky fandango on the palate once on board. Citrusy, with a whiff of the tropical. Just a little juicy. Easy-drinking, for sure, and tasty enough. 

Cloudy, soft, delicious IPA.

New Belgium 1985 IPA

New Belgium 1985 IPA.

6.7 % ABV, 30 IBU. New Belgium Brewing, Fort Collins, CO.

Clouded and hazy. Bright yellow color, large and lasting ivory head. Looking good. 

In the nose: Pineapple and passionfruit in charge, citrus (lemon, orange, minor grapefruit) just behind. 

In the mouth: Repeat of the aroma, now on the palate. Sweet and juicy, ultimately ending dry. Hop bitterness is low on this one. Pineapple bomb. Medium bodied, long, fruity finish. Tasty stuff. 

Good ol' tropical juicy/hazy and you can drink it. 

Like totally loaded with juicy mango flavor, 1985 takes you back to the future of Hazy IPA's. Buckle up!

Citra, Simcoe, Cascade hops 

Left Hand Found Fortune Dry-Hopped Double IPA

Left Hand Found Fortune Dry-hopped Double IPA.

8.7% ABV, 55 IBU. Left Hand Brewing, Longmont, CO. 

Getting down to the last can of a six-pack I bought back in April. I keep chipping away until all the old stuff is out of the fridge, and we can get to the fresh. 

Completely and utterly hazy, bright golden hue, short white head. 

In the nose: Big hop aromatics. Citrus and pine. Sufficiently dank. 

In the mouth: Nice bitter hop bite up front, accompanied by a bit of juicy stone fruit & citrus. It's fierce one, just the way I like it. Considerably hoppy, bitter, dank and dry. Medium bodied, long finish. This is definitely one to contend with. Grapefruit, orange candied apricot, and loads of lemon are on display on the palate, with that non-stop bitter blitz. And I can dig it. 

Deep in Eldorado Canyon, amidst the soaring sandstone cliffs, our brewers were inspired to create a beer as majestic as the panoramic vistas before them. With hop aromatics as towering as the rock formations, Found Fortune is a hidden trail to hop treasure. Dry-hopped with El Dorado, Galaxy and Citra, this Double IPA boasts a wealth of candied orange, juicy tropical fruits, and fresh-squeezed grapefruit. Take a journey through its haze and find a fortune in every glass.

Toppling Goliath Double Dry Hop Pseudo Sue Pale Ale

Toppling Goliath Double Dry Hop Pseudo Sue Pale Ale.

5.8% ABV, 48 IBU. Toppling Goliath Brewing, Deborah, IA.

Hazy and golden, small white head. 

In the nose: Soft, sweet, citrusy. Grapefruit, orange, and lemon, with a bit of tropical in the mix. 

In the mouth: Bright, juicy, soft, smooth. Bold citrus flavors shine, but bitterness is dulled. This is why the coveted "double dry hop" does not agree with yours truly. It neuters what makes pale ales and IPAs great. Fine. Whatever. It's all the rage. I can't fight it. All smooth and shiney and chock full of hoppy goodness. 

This was antoher case of where I just had to give it a try, if only to once again confirm my belief that the double dry-hop fad is not for me. Zero dry-hops, I say! Or, maybe, just one. And let's keep it at that!

This double dry hopped pale ale showcases the Citra hop for a well balanced beer that is delicate in body with a mild bitterness in the finish. Ferocious aromas of citrus and mango give a refreshing taste that is bright with just enough bite!

Inbound Mango Hibiscus Saison Petal Pounder

Inbound Mango Hibiscus Saison Petal Pounder. 

5.5 %ABV, 20 IBU. Inbound BrewCo, Minneapolis, MN. 

I've had a Petal Pounder Saison from Inbound before, but it wasn't with mango & hibiscus. Just hibiscus. Looks like it's time for a new review. 

Clear, bright crimson color, large white head that shifts down in an instant. 

In the nose: Clean. Fruity. Mango and  hibiscus, huh? Getting more of the latter than the former, so far. And none of the normal saison notes. 

In the mouth: Starts out crisp and fruity, then takes a turn for the tart. I'm not sure what mango is up to, but it's being upstaged by hibiscus. Light bodied, easy-drinking, refreshing. Sweet and floral. I kind of like this. You can't pick up any saison flavors, but that's okay. They serve as the base for the hibiscus and some small shred of mango. Even if you can't taste the mango, I feel that it's doing it's job, holding the hibiscus back just a bit. 

A fresh and floral saison brewed with a pounder's worth of real hibiscus petals plus juicy mango. Built for a season of pedals and petals.

Pipeworks Beyond Beyond Hazy Pale Ale

Pipeworks Beyond Beyond Hazy Pale Ale. 

6.8% ABV, Pipeworks Brewing, Chicago, IL.

Yes, I broke my vow against buying more hazies with this one. Because it was only a $3 single can, so what could it hurt, and who knows, maybe I'd like it. I do like to pepper this blog with Pipeworks from time to time, and so what if it's hazy, let's drink it. 

Oh, so hazy. Ever so cloudy, And yellow. With a slim white cap. 

In the nose: Citrus and tropical notes, with a whole lot of fuzz on it. Very mellow. 

In the mouth: Soft and gauze-like, Cotton mouth. Some say pillowy, but I ain't putting no pillow down my throat. Juicy hops flavors float on the palate. We get the mango and passionfruit, with a little lemon and grapefruit. Tropical takes the crown. 

This pale ale succeeds in the way that good hazies do, but fails in my eyes. I just wasn't made for these times. I want crisp and fresh, not soft and fuzzy. That's my kind of pale ale. And this is another. Maybe I'm missing out on the next evolutionary step. No, it is the children who are wrong. 

Hazy Pale Ale with Idaho 7, Cryo Simcoe and Citra hops. 

What is beyond the beyond...the beyond...the beyond... the beyond? Beyond Beyond seeks to answer our most existential questions with hops. Eh, not really. But! the combo of Idaho 7, Citra and Cryo Simcoe hops are bringing tropical, citrusy and mango-forward aromas and flavors that are beyond...beyond pale ale expectations.

This beer is smooth, tropical, with ripe mango vibes.

Odell Kindling Golden Ale To Spark Change

Odell Kindling Golden Ale To Spark Change.

5% ABV, 10 IBU, Odell Brewing, Fort Collins, CO.

Clouded, golden, slim white head. 

In the nose: Soft, slightly citric, grainy. Tiny bit tart. 

In the mouth: Soft, mild, clean, and mostly malty. Mild hop presence, smooth and easy-drinking, every inch an American golden Ale. Just tasty enough to make it worth drinking. Not too bad...and you say they donate to charity? 

Light in color bold in flavor. A clean ale that celebrates the maltiness of the beer with light fruity esters of peach, apricot, and apple with hints of citrus. A golden ale to spark change!

Surly Occult Philosophy Double Dry-Hopped Hazy Double India Pale Ale

Surly Occult Philosophy Double Dry-Hopped Hazy Double India Pale Ale.

9.2 % ABV. Double. Hop. Arcana. Surly Brewing, Mpls/B.C., MN. 

Hold on, Al, you're saying, aren't you supposed to be eschewing the hazies and the DDHs these days, in order to stave off inevitable disappointment? Well, yeah, but I make an exception for Surly, and I have to admit that it's mainly out of sentiment and nostalgia for the years 2006-2016. So, let's drink some...

Lightly hazed, bright golden/amber color, large and lasting creamy white head, looking good. 

In the nose: Bursting with citrus and overripe tropical fruits. Pine on the side. Candied fruit for dessert. 

In the mouth: Just a bit juicy at the start, then swallowed up by rich and delicious hop flavors, dank and fruity. Little bit of bitterness, but it remains low-key. Bright and shiny hop goodness keeps the tempo upbeat, the mood high, the feeling appealing. Then the booze crashes the party and makes with the merry. A lot of complexity in this one, and I find myself liking it. 

Read the tea leaves. Roll the bones. Reveal the final card. Delve into mysteries unknown with this hop-heavy and hazy double dry-hopped double IPA. Featuring Lotus, Mosaic, and Strata hops, this soft and juicy beer help you find fortune and favor deep within the swirling mists. 

Mankato Baltic Porter

Mankato Baltic Porter.

7.6 % ABV, 35 IBU. Mankato Brewing, Mankato, MN. 

Once more, we have the final can from a variety 12-pack. All the other beers in this package from Mankato Brewing have appeared here before. I bought the thing just to get to this one. And I'm glad for it. 

Deep and dark, full-on ebony, utterly opaque, with a rich brown ring of foam above. 

In the nose: Coffe and cocoa reign from above. Slight cinnamon and clove. Mostly malty. Very inviting, inherently promising. 

In the mouth: Smooth, sweet, and slightly bitter. Rich and malt-forward. Almost creamy. More coffee and chocolate, and a shimmer of dark fruit, to boot. Full-bodied, long, bittersweet finish. Absolutely delicious. 

More and more, I am happy and impressed by the breweries that don't chase the hype train, and continue to put out quality beers of a diverse range of styles. Sure, you've got sours and hazies, but where's your Baltic Porter, I ask? I'm glad I found this beer. 

Avast ya scurvy dogs, we'll swing ya from the yardarms if ye don't be wantin' a hardy porter for sailing through a dark winter. Baltic porters were brewed to withstand long voyages across the North Sea, and ye won't last a fortnight without this smoky, deep-layered malt brew and its pleasant acidic fruit flavor. Yo Ho!

Insight Hop Spin Rotating Series West Coast Double IPA

Insight Hop Spin Rotating Series West Coast Double IPA. Galaxy, El Dorado, Citra, Simcoe hops. 

8.2 % ABV. Brewed and canned by Insight Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

There's one guaranteed, sure-fire way to lure me into a beer, and it is a West Coast Double IPA. That style, done right, will always get me. Let's see if this one has the goods. 

Clear, bright golden hue, large and lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: Absolutely popping with citrus and pine. Grapefruit, orange, and deep woods/new-mown grass. Down Dank Alley. 

In the mouth: Fresh, zesty, and brimming with happiness. Bright, dark, and beautiful. The goods are indeed got. Powerfully dank, delicious, and bitter. Although, to be honest, I could use even more bitterness. But, these days, I take what I can get. 

A heavy-duty version of the our brewery's favorite style of IPA. Galaxy-forward dry hops add an intense citrus and peach aroma which sits comfortably on a classic West Coast hop lineup of El Dorado, Simcoe, and Citra. A light and delicately layered grain bill finishes just dry enough to balance out the leaky 8.2 % ABV. Big, bold, hoppy, clear IPAs like this are why we think West Coast is the best coast. 

Excuse me folks, I ... I think I have something in my eye.....

Junkyard Basement Business 2020 Barleywine in Rye Whiskey Barrels

Junkyard Basement Business 2020 Barleywine in Rye Whiskey Barrels. Aged in Willett Rye Whiskey Barrels. 

12.7 % ABV. Junkyard Brewing, Moorhead, MN. 

Clear, bright ruby coloring, slim head. 

In the nose: Sweet and malty, Cherry and vanilla, oak flavors, whiskey aplenty. Lightly burnt. Leather and fruit. So much of muchness. 

In the mouth: Dark fruits. Grape, plum, fig, with an edge of brandy. Brisk and brilliant. Full in the mouth, long, rich, ridiculously rewarding finish. Little bit of spicy character rolling on top the whiskey flavors. So very wonderful. 

God damn, this is pretty near perfect. I've been sitting on this for nearly a year, I think, and I wish I had bought another. I need one bottle to write about, and wish I had another to share with friends some day. This is definitely one that can keep for years and years and years. 

Final verdict: Certified Yum a dum dum. 

Aromas begin with notes of golden raisin and orange zest. Flavors of raisin, fig, and bourbon are complimented by an overall warming spice.

Deep Ellum IPA

Deep Ellum IPA.

7 % ABV, 70 IBU. Deep Ellum Brewing, Dallas, TX. 

And this is the last can from a 12-pack that I bought many months ago. I'm cleaning out the fridge of the stuff I've been passing by all this time, and once I scale back the backlog, I hope my reviews to be fresher than ever. Fingers crossed and cross my heart.

Clear, golden/amber hue, short, lace-leaving, ivory head. 

In the nose: Grapefruit is top of the heap here, followed by tangerine, orange and maybe mango. Nice. 

In the mouth: Bright and juicy at that start, with a big bite of bitterness that clings to the palate. Citrus and pine are in command. Slight sweetness, expressive fruity character, but ultimately ending on a dry note. Medium bodied, long bitter finish. Hey, I kind of like it. 

For an IPA to bear our hometown name, it better be potent. So we loaded it with our favorite American hops for a bitter punch. And with some over-the-top tropical fruit, citrus, pine and floral aromas and flavors, you’ve got one big Texas IPA, deserving of the Deep Ellum name.

Boulevard Tasting Room Series Hazy Pale Ale

Boulevard Tasting Room Series Hazy Pale Ale.

5.2% ABV. 35 IBU. Boulevard Brewing, Kansas City, MO. 

Another one from a big ol' box o' bottles. 

It's all hazy. You totally can't see through it. Also, bright golden hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: Soft and fuzzy, with citrus notes emerging emerging. 

In the mouth: Smooth and citrusy. Mild bitterness. Plenty of fuzz. Light body. Just enough hops on the palate to keep me happy. Not too shabby, there. 

We took our OG Pale Ale and kicked it up a notch with this fuller-bodied and hoppier Hazy Pale Ale. 

Malt: Pale malt, Wheat malt, Cara malt, Oats

Hops: Ekuanot. Cascade. Idaho 7. El Dorado

Hofbräu Hefe Weizen

Hofbräu Hefe Weizen. Munich Wheat Specialty. 

5.1 % ABV. Staatliches Hofbräuhaus München, Munich, Bayern Germany

This is only the second Hofbräu beer that I've ever had. The first was their Oktoberfest, a sample given to me over two years ago, in the before times when I bought beers for a bar and people gave me samples. How is that I've been putting off sampling more of their beers for so long? Lured by the new and the local so many times, I suppose. Well, I've going to keep trying all the beers of the world, not just the fresh and fancy ones. Let's drink this...

Lightly clouded, orange-ish hue, tall white head that shrinks down quickly..

In the nose: Big banana, with a dose of citrus and a side of clove. Spice to match the sweet. 

In the mouth: Sweet and smooth from the start. Citrus notes meet the banana, orange and lemon round it out. Exceptionally drinkable and refreshing, perfect for the summer season. The Hofbräu Hefe is not without it's charms, but doesn't stand up there with the best German weizens. I certainly wouldn't recommend it over Schneider Weisse or Weihenstephaner. 

Die obergärige „Münchner Weisse“ ist der Geheimtipp für alle Weißbier­genießer, die spritzige, prickelnde Erfrischung schätzen. Hell bernsteinfarben mit einer cremigen Schaumkrone und einem harmonisch fruchtigen Bukett entfaltet sich „Münchner Weisse“ mit einem Alkoholgehalt von 5,1% Vol. im Glas. Ihr Geschmack ist feinhefig, spritzig, aromatisch-estrig und mit einem mild-süßlichen Ausklang. Ein erfrischendes Vergnügen! 

Can't read German? Well, neither can 1, so let's find something in English. How about the back of the label? The origin of Hofbräu Hefe Weizen dates back to 1589 and since then the "Weisse" has a distinctive place in the history of HOFBRÄU MÜNCHEN. HOFBRÄU Hefe Weizen is characterized by it's sparkling, it's rich foam and naturally by it's unforgettable refreshing taste. 

Fair State Foamers Lime

 Fair State Foamers Lime.

4.6 % ABV Pale Lager Brewed with Flaked Corn and Lime Puree. 

Fair State Brewing Cooperative, Mpls/STP, MN

If you know me at all, you could probably guess the next statement I am about to make. This here beer is not one that I purchased due to any interest or compulsion, or any feeling that I just had to give it a try, or that it might please me in some way. No, it fell into my possession by gift or sampler or some other situation where I didn't have to pay for it. And if it's in the fridge, I have to write about it. There may be some instances where I bend that rule, but you'll never hear about it. 

I never tried the original Crankin' Foamers because I find the name to be idiotic and the concept repellant. 

Ooops, I did try it back in 2019. How soon I forget. And seems like I actually enjoyed it, somewhat, after all. I will now return you to the review already in progress:

No, no corn, please, and thank you. And here I am about to tackle the version with lime. Oh, goody. 

Hazy. Because, of course. You're not going to trick hipster's into drinking a cheap lager without leaving the haze. Dull gold, small head. 

In the nose: lime, lime, lime, and then lime. 

In the mouth: More lime. And nothing else. Do you like lime? This one's the limiest!Like I always say, Lime a lime lime!

I can't really say much about it. There's nothing here beyond the lime. But, it's not bad, actually, and you've got to mow you lawn some time, don't you, and don't you just love limes? This may be the beer for you. Me? Oh, hell, no. 

Foamers Lime is our idea of a perfect summer day, in can form. It’s our favorite drinking beer, Crankin’ Foamers, with some really choice lime puree thrown into the mix. Bright, zesty, juicy, maximally crisp and drinkable.