Fulton Moon Howler Hazy IPA

 

Fulton Moon Howler Hazy IPA.

6.5 % ABV, 35 IBU. Fulton Beer, Minneapolis, MN. 

Another hazy! Ooo, goody!

To the eye: Yup, that's hazy! Mostly. Brightish goldeny hue. Large and lush ivory head. 

In the nose: Floral, delicate, light & hoppy. Glides as lightly as a cloud. Quite beautiful. 

In the mouth: All soft-like and fluffy and stuff. Light and without a bite. But, tasty, easily consumable, and abuzz with citric deliciousness. Medium bodied, long, hoppy finish, very enjoyable. 

Hazy IPA with slight darkness and full of hops.

Finnegans Dead Irish Poet Coffee Stout

Finnegans Dead Irish Poet Coffee Stout. Stout brewed with Caribou Coffee. 

7% ABV, 38 IBU, Brewed & canned by Finnegans Brew Co., Minneapolis, MN. 

Dark brown color, bordering on black, full opacity, rich brown ring of foam floats above. 

In the nose: Coffee pops out rich, earthy, bittersweet. Moderate, but well appreciated. Chocolate malt aromas rest beneath. 

In the mouth: Coffee flavors dominates, and it's sharp, sweet, bitter. Gritty, earthy, roasty and toasty. Unfortunately, I feel that the richness and fullness of the original beer is lost here. Not exactly a proper combination of the two. Body is medium, finish is bittersweet. Bit on the thin side.  Overall, enjoyable, but I kept wanting more. 

Coffee forward with roasted malt and dark chocolate. Silky smooth mouth feel with a rich tight foam cap 

BlackStack After Careful Consideration DDH IPA

BlackStack After Careful Consideration DDH IPA.

7.5 % ABV, BlackStack Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

To the eye: Bright golden, nearly orange, large white head, impenetrable haze. A guy was asking at the store about hazies, and I said he needed to check out Local 755. "Are you sure?" he asked me, "it doesn't say on the label." They never do, I told him, and they always are. 

In the nose: Big citrus, with tropical on the side. Orange and pineapple aplenty. 

In the mouth:  Sweetness at the fore, not a trace of bitter. Lots of hoppiness, and plenty of mush. Bright and tasty, though. Nearly chewy, this. Lots of protein. Probably some fiber, too. 

I run out of words with these, sometimes. They all taste pretty much the same, and give me precious little joy. It's a whole thing, though, a lifestyle, a philosophy, an ethos, if you will. And it's not for me. 

Things happen fast around these parts. Sometimes you get time to ponder on it. Sometimes you just gotta go for it. Thoughtful additions of Azacca Cryo, Citra, Cashmere, Idaho 7 & NZ Motueka. Do what feels right. 

Metazoa Puppy Slumber Party Peanut Butter Milk Stout

Metazoa Puppy Slumber Party Peanut Butter Milk Stout.

6.4 % ABV, 28 IBU. Brewed and canned by Metazoa Brewing, Indianapolis, IN. 

Clear, dark brown body, ruby edges, small brownish head. 

In the nose: Big peanut butter aroma, sweet and chocolatey. 

In the mouth: Smooth and creamy, low hops, mostly malty. Peanut butter flavor comes through, but isn't too much. Very balanced, easy drinking. Chocolate and caramel malt flavors lie just below the pb. Very tasty stout, and I can dig it. 

Firestone Walker Hopnosis IPA

Firestone Walker Hopnosis IPA. Beer Before Glory. India Pale Ale.

6.7 %ABV. Firestone Walker Brewing, Los Robles, CA. 

Clear, bright gold, large and lasting white head. 

In the nose: Floral, fragrant, citrus and pine. Lovely.

In the mouth: Citrus splash at the front, accompanied by bitterness and slight astringency. Lingering lemon. Slightly sharp. Refreshing and delicious.  Chock full o' hoppy delights. Lean-bodied and ultra-drinkable. 

The Hop Ontology Project is our exploration of the ephemeral nature of the modern IPA. Hopnosis is a crisp West Coast IPA double dry-hopped with some of our favorite modern hop varieties from the USA and New Zealand.

Dugges Big Idjit Imperial Stout

 Dugges Big Idjit Imperial Stout. 

12 % ABV. Brewed and bottled by Dugges Bryggeri, Landvetter, Sweden.

Hey, everyone, let's have a Swedish beer. It's been a while. And let's make it an Imperial Stout, while we're at it. 

To the eye: Solid blackness, fully opaque, slim brown head. 

In the nose: deep and rich. Charcoal and chocolate, molasses and anise, roasty and smokey. Exceptionally intriguing. 

In the mouth: More depth, more deliciousness. Big and bold, huge and hearty, thick and powerful. Rich malts, chocolate and caramel convene with all those riches noted in the nose. Small sweetness, minor hops. Feels a little ...less than, though. I can't find a date on it, but it had been on the shelf at the store where I work since the day I started...sixteen months ago months ago. 

Dark malts since 2005. Dark Malts forever. This is a big and bold imperial stout, bigger and bolder than most. So, what does that make this beer then? An imperial (it's a word) stout. A more imperial stout? Let's just say it's big. Big Idjit. 

Drastic Measures Stupid Good Hazy IPA

Drastic Measures Stupid Good Hazy IPA.

6.6 % ABV. 60 IBU. Drastic Measures Brewing, Wadena, MN. 

Well, folks, here it is, only the third beer by this brewery in the Nib, and this will make the third hazy IPA by them. I really should have picked up another beer by them of another style by now, not sure why I never did. And this, one of their best known and most popular beers, appears at this time not because I have dropped my ban on the hazies, but because their new sales rep, my ol' pal Brenson, has shared samples and this can landed in my hands. Let's drink this with an open mind and try forget my feelings on the hazy trend which both bores and aggravates me at once.

Considerably dense and clouded, bright golden hue, thin, but lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: citrus notes and tropical, too. Subtle, but solid. 

In the mouth: Soft and delicate. Citrusy. Lacking any bitterness at all. Very mellow and toned down. Smooth and fuzzy. Just a little bit juicy. Mild on the palate. A bit too much on the sweet side, could  use even the slightest dose of bitter. Easily consumed. Good hazy, for those who like that sort of thing, and one certainly can drink it. (Personally, it's all ho-hum to me.)

I vow that I will try more beers from this brewery and they will not be hazies. 

So Good, It's ...See what we did there? When we first brewed this juicy Northeast style IPA, the immediate reaction was unanimous and there was only one name that seemed inappropriate. Since then, we've brewed a bunch more beers in this style, but this is the original...and the one that keeps people coming back for more. So, sit back, relax, and get Stupid!

This must be my problem. I don't relax and get stupid enough. 

Surly Midnight Manhattan Darkness Russian Imperial Stout

Surly Midnight Manhattan Darkness Russian Imperial Stout.

12 % ABV, Surly Brewing, Twin Cities, MN. 

There were three Darkness variants this year. I have chosen to review two of them. I tried one of the least popular ones, the Blueberry Crumble, at an event late last month, and it confirmed my decision not to spend $14 on a 16 ounce can I'm not going to like. I regret spending the $8 plus tax on the 10 ounce pour, as it was. (what were they thinking? Lemon shouldn't be any anywhere near an RIS.)

This one seems more promising. Rye Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout with Cherries and Orange Peel added. I remember tasting one of the first Darkness variants at a festival, and it was Manhattan-based. So, let's crack the can and see how it is. 

To the eye: It is dark as dark gets (hence the name), complete opacity, rich, if slim, brown head rings above.

In the nose: Roasted malt, bitter and sweet, well balanced, with cherries slowly emerging. Next comes the orange peel. I see how they are trying to emulate the Manhattan, but is that possible with an Imperial Stout? Most bourbons and whiskeys do not have the actual character of an Imperial Stout. It's asking too much. I am not one to complain that the true character of Darkness is still here. Now, let us drink. 

In the mouth: Rich, sweet, sightly fruity. Chocolate and citrus share top billing, with cherries popping in for a cameo. They keep on playing on the palate, doing a duet fandango on the tongue. Bitterness remains high (for an Imperial Stout), everything is kept in check. Very rich, very full, and full of Russian Imperial delights.

Inspired by the classic cocktail, our legendary Russian imperial stout gets aged on cherries and orange peels in bourbon barrels. First we drink Manhattan. Then we drink again.

Sierra Nevada Powder Day IPA

Sierra Nevada Powder Day IPA. Double Dry-hopped. 

7.7 % ABV, 45 IBU. Sierra Nevada Brewing, Chico, CA & elsewhere. 

Not long ago (gosh, a few hours ago, really),  I mentioned here my new-found love of the 12-pack of cans, not merely variety packs but 12, count 'em 12, of the same damned beer. You see, it just makes sense, financially. I'm so used to the 4 & 6-packs, cause I like to keep trying new things. But sometimes you need a lot of something that you can just grab and drink whenever and not worry about. Most people know this and act accordingly. And when you're me, you're all wrapped up in getting that new stuff and writing those reviews, but you need to take a break from that, don't you? Sure, you do. 

So, on the day that this one arrived at the store, I took home a 12-pack, due the economical advantage. A co-worker acted surprised. "You're that sure you're going to like it?" It's Sierra Nevada, how could I not like it? Maybe it won't be my favorite, but how often does that happen? Only a few get to be your favorite. Most are just beers you can drink and you kind of like. Also, I had been kicking myself for not buying Celebration in a 12-pack. 

Well, we're down to can 12, so it's note-taking time. Notes, ahoy!

Clear, bright golden color, snow-white head. 

In the nose: Fresh, vibrant, floral & fruity aromatics. Delivers the delightful hop aromas to satisfaction. 

In the mouth: Citrus hop flavors grace the palate first, some orange and grapefruit, with a dose of pine. Juicy, at first. Loads of hops at play, but the bitterness is a bit muted. As is the style. Just enough flavor and hop bitterness to keep me happy, but not enough to thrill me. And that's okay. Other people need their beers, too. 

I often have to talk people through beer jargon that is at times confusing. "I don't like beers that are too hoppy. This one says it's double dry-hopped. Will I hate it?" No, sir, you will not. Double dry-hopped means they left in twice the not-bitterness. Or something like that. 

Anyway, I liked this one. But, I think my next beer will have to be a little hoppier. Or, bitterer. 

Powder Day Double Dry-Hopped IPA. We started dry-hopping, and it snowballed into a full-on powder day. Notes of citrus, stone fruit, and melon pile high in a blizzard of lupulin powder.

Able Planes of Existence Mega Vanilla Stout

Able Planes of Existence Mega Vanilla Stout. Rested on Madagascar vanilla.

13 % ABV, Able Seedhouse + Brewery, Minneapolis, MN. 

Complete and thorough blackness, absolute opacity, rich brown head of foam holding down the fort. 

In the nose: roasted malt, chocolate and caramel, molasses, a hint of smoke, a touch of anise. Much going on here, much appreciated.

In the mouth: Comes on smooth and bittersweet, with sweetness slowly gaining the upper hand. More cocoa, some coffee, and the vanilla is perking up, unperceived in the aromatics. Big chocolate flavors dominate. Full bodied, full flavored, and not overtly vanilla, as I feared. 

Very nice. One of the best Ables I've ever had. 

Modern Times Sparkle Wolf West Coast Style IPA

Modern Times Sparkle Wolf West Coast Style IPA.

6.7 % ABV, Modern Times Beer, San Diego, CA. 

Let's take a break from drinking those hazy IPAs & pale ales that I don't actually like and just end up getting stuck with, and try one of the styles that I love. And this is from a San Diego brewery, so they have to know how to make one of these. Let's see how sparkly the wolf is....

Clear, with slight chill haze, bright golden hue, large and lasting, lace-leaving ivory head. Looking great. 

In the nose: Bold and beautiful. Beaming with citrus and pine. Out and out hopgasm. (new word I just made up.)

In the mouth: Just a little juicy at the front, then turning swiftly dry, and nearly brittle. Floods the palate with hoppy flavors, more orange, lemon, and grapefruit blended together with a twist of forest floor. A touch of stone fruit, to boot. Mellow malt and excellent integration. A terrific West Coast IPA, from a brewery better known for the hazies. Miracles can happen. 

Pear, watermelon, west coast. With el dorado, mosaic hops. And it's clear

Clown Shoes Reindeer Games Bavarian India Pale Ale

Clown Shoes Reindeer Games Bavarian India Pale Ale.

7 % ABV. Brewed and canned by Clown Shoes Beer, Boston, MA, and Windsor, VT. 

What on Earth is a Bavarian IPA? Is it a real thing or did Clown Shoes make it up? Let's drink now and find out later...

Clear and crimson colored, with a large and lasting off-white head. 

In the nose: Malt forward with plenty of hops on the side. Lightly floral. 

In the mouth: Warm and malty once more, with citrusy hop kick on the tongue. Juicy malts caress the palate, hops spread joy behind. Medium bodies, tasty, highly drinkable. I can't help but like this one. 

Yes we all know what the Super Bowl of the reindeer is…but did you know they also have an Olympics?

Beautiful, malt-forward and red-hued IPA that is crafted with both German and American hops and malts.

Montgomery Brewing The Juicy Haze Experience Imperial NEIPA

Montgomery Brewing The Juicy Haze Experience Imperial NEIPA.

9.5 % ABV. Brewed and bottled by Montgomery Brewing, Montgomery, MN.

And now I have another hazy NEIPA. I didn't ask for it, I didn't pay for it. It was a gift/sample. I can't/won't say no to free beer. So, I can not blame it for what it is and shall strive to see the good in it. 

To the eye: All hazed out, dull yellow color, long lasting ivory head. 

In the nose: Soft and citric. Orange peel, lemon and fuzz. 

In the mouth: Starts out bright and juicy on the palate, with softness and fuzziness along for the ride. Contains most of the characteristics of the better hazies. Great hop flavors, very little bitterness much to my consternation), soft and smooth, with oncoming alcohol strenth. Medium bodied, big citrus flavors, lemon and orange and a twist of grapefruit, exceptionally smooth.

I just have to repeat my mantra: "It's not for me, they didn't make it for me"....

Juicy yes, Hazy, yes. Packed with Enigma and Nelson Sauvin hops.

Destihl Strawberry Lemonade Sour Seltzer

Destihl Strawberry Lemonade Sour Seltzer.

5 % ABV, Destihl Brewing, Normal, IL. 

A seltzer? A SELTZER?!?, Al, your most hated of enemies? The anti-beer? Yes, I have a seltzer in my possession and I will review it. 

Edit: I don't have to review it. It's not a beer. But this is my blog, and I can write what I want and I feel that I haven't ranted against seltzers in a while. I've been holding it in for too long. Rant away! 

Clear and colorless. Bubbles. 

Nose: Hey, Strawberry Lemonade, just like they promised. 

Mouth: Oooh, sour. How about that strawberry lemonade flavor? Oh, there it is.  And now it's gone. That's what I love about hard seltzers. The lack of flavor. It's so refreshing. 

I'll say this about hard seltzers. It's a segment of the market that is here to stay, and they are also remarkably easy to make. It's a no-brainer to cash in on this. Those people who don't drink beer who got dragged to the brewery by their friends, spouse, associates., etc? Yeah, the people who don't like beer, they need something to drink, don't they?

But I also see people coming into the store wearing a Sierra Nevada t-shirt and they grab a White Claw and turn back around to check out. Who needs beer anymore when we got seltzer!

Or the young lady who pulled out her phone to look something up, maybe reviews of the seltzer she was looking at, and her phone has a sticker on it that reads: I (heart) hops. And she buys the seltzer. And nothing but. That's all she needs in her life now, hard seltzer. Where's your love now, formerly hop loving lady? It's gone, gone, gone. Tear that sticker off! You've betrayed your love of hops!

All over this land people are breathing sighs of relief that seltzer has saved them from beer. Yay, we have seltzer now, no more beer! Thank you, slightly flavored alcoholic fizzy water for rescuing me from beer!

How I hate them. 

(I feel like I have to say this. I don't really hate them. I don't hate anyway. That was just a Charlie Brown reference that 0.5 % of people who read this will get. They just disappoint me. And sadden me. Also, maybe disgust me?)

(God, I'm kidding! these are the jokes, people!)

(and, yes, I realize that some may have turned to the seltzers due to a low-carb diet or having celiac or any number of reasons, but this is my rant, damnit, and I'll rant it I want to!)

Schell's Snowstorm 2021 Oat Starkbier

Schell's Snowstorm 2021 Oat Starkbier.

6.1 % ABV, 25 IBU. August Schell Brewing, New Ulm, MN. 

I've taken far too long with this one. It's been out for two months. This year I wised up and bought a 12-pack, before even trying it. I just have faith that anything in this series will be good, and 12-packs are a sound value.That 12-pack of cans was purchased on December 11, according to my first check-in on Untappd. Now, 11 cans later, it is at last time to take some notes. And here we go...

First of all, what is a "oat starkbier"? Sources tell me that it is a completely invented designation, meant to stave off any comparisons to other beers of whatever style it would be named. "Starkbier" means "strong beer", and while 6.1 % ABV doesn't seem strong, it is compared to the typical German beer. And it's made with oat malt. How does it taste? Wait, first, what's it look like? 

Crystal clear, deep amber hued, large, lush cloud-white hue. 

In the nose:  caramel, moderate hops, slight sweetness. Lightly toasty. 

In the mouth: Brief little hop buzz on the palate, then the kiss of malts rushes up. Light bodied, easy drinking. Hearty malt flavors keep up persistent, if mild-ish, hop bitterness. Exceptionally smooth. A lot of tastiness in this little can. 

I always wish that the Snowstorm series beers were all darker and richer, but then I have to come to terms with the fact that they've been doing this for nearly 20 years (or more?), and they've never repeated anything. You certainly can't complain when it's at face value just a damned good, tasty beer. 

As every Midwesterner knows, no two snowstorms are ever alike and that’s what makes this brew so special. This year’s Oat Starkbier is a malt-driven dark lager meant for the coldest of winter nights. The creamy mouthfeel from the oats smooths out the toasty notes, amplifying the rich Munich malt before a crisp finish.

Eagle Park Immortal Soul Imperial West Coast Style India Pale Ale

Eagle Park Immortal Soul Imperial West Coast Style India Pale Ale. Brewed with Citra and Mosaic Cryo Hops. 

8.2 % ABV, Brewed and canned by Eagle Park Brewing, Muskego, WI. 

So, an Imperial West Coast IPA from Eagle Park and it's only $11.99 for the 4-pack? Guess I've got to try it. Let's see if a haze maker can do this style justice. 

To the eye: Not quite clear, but not too hazy, either. Deep golden/amber hue. Slim white head. 

In the nose: Citrus explosion, big and fruity. Lively lemon, orange and a twist of tangerine, slice of grapefruit on the side. 

In the mouth: Starts out fresh and juicy, plump and citrusy. Doesn't hardly resemble a West Coast IPA in the the least. Hoppiness grows on the palate as the alcohol starts to show. Medium bodied, long, hoppy finish. I like this as a double IPA, and I wouldn't be upset if they just called it an American IPA and left it at that. It lacks the dryness and the crisp bitter bite of a true West Coast IPA. Once again, I'm let down by someone advertising a West Coast and not delivering. 

Immortal Soul is an ever evolving double IPA, brewed to showcase the unique characteristics of various new and exciting hops. Every batch has the same malt bill, body, color, and bitterness but features a unique hop profile. Same Soul. Different Personality.

Bent Brewstillery I Am Jack's Complete Lack of Surprise DDH West Coast IPA

Bent Brewstillery I Am Jack's Complete Lack of Surprise DDH West Coast IPA. Hoppped with Citra and El Dorado. 

6.5 % ABV, 40 IBU. Bent Brewstillery, Roseville, MN. 

Utmost clarity, brightest golden hue, large and lovely ivory head. Looking fine. 

In the nose: floral, citric, and slightly piney. Orange and lemon with a twist of dank.

In the mouth: Crisp, clean, hoppy, and dry. Just enough bitterness to qualify. Medium bodied and easily quaffable. Flooded with citrus hop flavors. Shines brightly on the palate. Isn't quite what I want from a West Coast IPA, but that's probably the DDH-ing mucking up the parts I like best. Close enough, this time. 

Not too shabby, there, Bent, not too shabby. (In other words, I enjoyed it.)

West-coast IPA featuring El Dorado and Citra hops.

Elysian Punkuccino Coffee Pumpkin Ale

Elysian Punkuccino Coffee Pumpkin Ale. Coffee Pumpkin Ale with Cinnamon and Nutmeg. 

6 % ABV, Elysian Brewing, Seattle, WA. 

I know what you're thinking. It's the middle of January, Al, and you're drinking a pumpkin ale? It's funny how things work, isn't it? And this is the first of three. Well, look at it this way. I wasn't going to pay for this, and I didn't. "Experience BY: APR 22." 

Dark brown appearance, fully opaque, slim brownish head. 

In the nose: rich coffee-is nose, with a spicy kick. Nice blend of flavors, but nothing from the gourd. Smells fantastic.

In the mouth: Rich, earthy, nutty, spicy, coffee. And, again, nothing from pumpkin. Is it there at all, just swallowed up by the spice? It's slightly sweet and majorly malty. 

Punkuccino :: Coffee Pumpkin Ale. 

A pumpkin ale with the attitude of a world-weary barista, Punkuccino packs a short shot of Stumptown coffee toddy in your pint with just a shake of cinnamon and nutmeg. Pale, brown, biscuit, C-77 crystal, chocolate and kiln-coffee malts provide the body, German Northern Brewer lends a touch of bitterness, and lactose sweetens just a touch. Three pumpkin additions, in the mash, kettle and fermenter. 5% ABV.

Clown Shoes Mango Farm IPA

Clown Shoes Mango Farm IPA.

5.75 % ABV. Clown Shoes Beer, Boston, MN. 

Lightly hazed, bright golden hue, slim white head. 

In the nose: nicely hopped, with plenty of mango peeking through. Some citrus lurks below. 

In the mouth: First sip in, I'm unimpressed. Kind of a dud, and a rare miss from Clown Shoes. Neither the mango aspect or the IPA side of things really delivers. Just a little bit juicy, and hardly at all hoppy. 

Is it old? Let's look at the bottom of the can: Best by: 1/31/22. So, we've got a few weeks to go. 

Am I being too hard on this beer? No. It lacks life. Does not engage the palate in the slightest. Alas and alack.

This crisp and juicy IPA hits the spot like a freshly picked mango on a hot summer day. Mango puree and a hop bill including Mosaic, Cascade, Azacca, and Simcoe make Mango Farm an oasis of fresh fruit flavor. 

Samuel Smith India Ale

Samuel Smith India Ale. 

5 % ABV, Samuel Smith's Old Brewery Tadcaster, Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom. 

Clear, copper colored, slim, off-white head. 

In the nose: Crisp, clean, mineral, herbal, maybe. Slight fruitiness, but not the ones you're looking for. More like apple, pear, melon. Definitely an English ale.

In the mouth: Fresh and fruity, lightly bitter, judiciously hopped. Clean and mellow. Slightly sweet malt flavor. Light bodied and crisp. What should English IPAs taste like? This. It's all about the water. 

I love the beers of Samuel Smith, but this one has never been my favorite. My favor for English IPAs/Ales fell off long ago when I went heads over hills for American IPAs. I still love traditional English porters and stouts, though.

I addressed this when I first took notes on this way back in March of 2003, and I gave a 4.3/5, a good 16% above the average. Here are those notes: Color is a gorgeous ruby red, head is fine, full, and off-white in color. Aroma is overflowing with fruit: peach is on top, but we can also detect apricot, grapefruit, orange, citrus. Very sweet and inviting. So drink it already!

Deliriously delicious! This is a terrifically well-rounded IPA: not too hoppy, with malt providing just enough support. Very little bitterness upon the palate, and surprising for an ale with an aroma so redolent with sweet,delightful fruitiness. On the tongue, more fruit flavors come through, too. I'm picking up cherries, and melons, and good gosh, it's gorgeous. Extreme drinkability. Some minimal bitterness comes through on the palate, but not to trouble the average beer drinker. An excellent introductory IPA. Me, I like mine much hoppier.

A terrifically well-rounded brew, and very drinkable. Finish is simple, sweet, and ever-lasting. Another excellent Smith offering.

BlackStack Amarillo By Morning Strait West Coast IPA

 

BlackStack Amarillo By Morning Strait West Coast IPA.

7.8% ABV. BlackStack Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

Most of the BlackStack beers you see here the Nib fall into my possession due to the beer buyer's antipathy towards IPAs. He gets the samples and passes them on to me, unless he wants to throw someone else a bone. That's what happened with this one. Someone else got the sample. But I didn't mind spending $12 for a 4-pack of a style I like....that is if it's done right, and not sarcastically. I've been burned before. 

To the eye: clear (with a slight chill haze), bright golden hue, slim white head.

In the nose: Big grapefruit, with orange and lemon on the side. 

In the mouth: Brisk, crisp, and full of hops. So far, so good. Tons of citrus and a trace of pine. Bitterness all up and down on the palate. Tasty stuff. Clean and dry. This is hitting all the right notes. 

I don't know if George Strait is known for being a fan of IPAs, but it's a fitting tribute nonetheless. Strait up deliciousness.  

(By the way, this is one of at least two dozen beers by this name from breweries across the USA. Some name ideas are just too easy.)

We got together with our favorite Austin Oil Acolytes, Pinthouse Pizza, to give a little love to the king. An extremely tasty lot of Pinthouse's selected Amarillo from Oregon and our selected Amarillo from Washington. Amarillo By Morning, Amarillos On My Mind.

Does anyone know what an "oil acolyte" is? 

Arbeiter Mulled Wee Heavy

Arbeiter Mulled Wee Heavy.

9.9% ABV. Arbeiter Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

Opaque, dark brown color, small, brownish head. 

In the nose: Sweet, malty, spicy. Nutmeg and cloves. A little nuttiness. Lovely stuff. 

In the mouth: Smooth and creamy. Full of rich, malty flavors. Full bodied, but far from thick. Waves on waves of deliciousness greet the palate. More of the nutmeg, and maybe allspice? Just the right blend of spices hitting on the best bed of sweet, malty wee heavy. And what's this about 9.9% ABV? 

 I wish I had brought this to the Christmas gathering, but I can never be sure who's going to join in. See, there's the sober side of the family, and then the Budweiser side, who will tolerate an occasional Grain Belt, and my craft beer side seems to fluctuate in attendance year to year. 

Well, the middle of January is a good time for a toasty winter warmer like this. Hey, it'll be above zero degrees for the next two days, that's something to celebrate!

Bent Paddle Classic Cream Ale

 Bent Paddle Classic Cream Ale. Finest Ingredients. Superior Water.

5 % ABV. 19 IBU. Bent Paddle Brewing, Duluth, MN.

Cream ales are not a style I seek out. They are simply not made with me in mind. This one found it's way into my fridge via a Bent Paddle Adventure Pack, all in order to get to the Oatmeal Stout, which will be reviewed here soon. Though I don't pick cream ales on purpose, I can appreciate a good one. So, let's give this one some further examination. 

Clear, bright golden color, slim white head. 

In the nose: grainy, a little malty, slight nuttiness.

In the mouth: Crisp and clean, light bodied. Exceedingly drinkable. More of the grain and nut. Tastes just like a cream ale should. Refreshing and slightly sweet. Negligible hops/bitterness. (Remember how I said they don't make them for me?)

I'd recommend this one. If you like cream ales. 

Bent Paddle Classic is an easy-going beer for any beer drinker. Straight forward and light with a smooth, creamy finish. This beer brings things back to the basics - sometimes, all you want is a beer that tastes like beer. Classic.

Stacked Deck Going Dark Barrel Aged Imperial Stout

Stacked Deck Going Dark Barrel Aged Imperial Stout. 

ABV: ?, IBU: ?. Stacked Deck Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

This brewery closed back in October, didn't it? I think so. They had a big blow-out final night and released this beer. I was not there, but Ed was. One of the owners gave him a bunch of these, and he shared two with me. I had one and enjoyed it, so let's turn the last one into a blog post. Why not? Ain't no law against it. 

Stictly ebon, full opacity, large and lasting rich brown head. 

In the nose: Big barrel, huge bourbon. Charcoal, cheries, leather and licorice. Wrapped around deep cocoa.

In the mouth: All that joins the palate and in comes the maple syrup. Thick and delicious. Deep and dense. Slick and slightly sweet. Full bodied. Massively malty. Maple is king and reigns with it's Queen, the bourbon barrel. 

Stacked Deck Vegas Boat Show West Coast IPA

Stacked Deck Vegas Boat Show West Coast IPA.

7.3 % ABV, Stacked Deck Brewing, St. Paul, MN. 

And here we have a beer that I should have gotten to quite a while ago. (I could say that about a lot of stuff in the fridge, though.) It is possibly the last Stacked Deck beer to appear here. Maybe. We'll see. 

Clear, bright golden/nearly amber hue, full, frothy head, lace-leaving and lovely.

In the nose: Aromatics are not bad, but fail if meant to be considered in the West Coast style. Thry're not popping out a bold citrus bomb. More muted and mellow, spilling out berry, apple, melon, grape. 

In the mouth: Some bitterness up front, but not enough to be WC. Nice, tidy hoppiness and fruit factor in the flavor. Mellow mouthfeel, some sweet maltiness. Just a little juicy. Missing most of the attributes that make up a West Coast IPA. Needs to be bone dry and brittle. Needs to have C-hops shining bright. I fear that this is another example of a brewery known for hazies thinking that any thing clear is a West Coast style. Not bad for an American IPA, though. 

Too bad about these guys, though. I miss seeing new Brent Schoonover labels every other weeks.

Maybe I have one more around here somewhere....beer, that is, not Brent S. label. 

Humble Forager Frosty Winter Double IPA: Nelson Sauvin, Citra, Strata

Humble Forager Frosty Winter Double IPA: Nelson Sauvin, Citra, Strata.

8 % ABV. Humble Forager Brewery, Waunakee, WI. 

And here we have a Humble Forager beer that I might have bought with my own money, if it wasn't given to me for free. No mention of hazy, or New England, or DDH (not that I won't find out that it is once I crack 'er open.) No marshmallows or pastry or sour or seltzer. From everything we can see on this label, it seems that we are promised a normal beer. Could this truly turn out to be true? Let us find out...

to they eye: Oh, it's all hazed up all right. They can't not do it. Dull yellow. Large, bright white head. 

In the nose: Oooh, nice. Beautiful blend of citrus and pine notes. White wine notes enter in as well. 

In the mouth: Slightly fuzzy/yeasty/hazy. All kinds of gunk. Why doesn't anyone else want a clean IPA, I tells ya, yelling at the cloud. Full of hoppy flavors, but muddled up in the muck. 

See the problem is that I only check the front. 

On the side we read: "Our winter version of hazy DDH Double IPA is brewed with winter wheat, a dash of oats and a blend of base malts. Loads of hops were packed into the whirlpool throughout the fermentation and conditioning phase. This IPA boasts huge hop aromas and flavors of zippy citrus, dank kush, rich mango, and Bartlett pears. Take an adventure with us at www.humbleforagerbrewery.com. THINK GLOBALLY FORAGE LOCALLY LIVE HUMBLY DRINK ADVENTUROUSLY"

And the booze comes forth. And it's smooth and ....ugh..."pillowy"...with generous citrus and tropical tones to play on the palate. It's tasty, sure, but I'm still blasé' on the hazies. Don't see me stopping on that one. 

Modist Oatrich Double Stout

 

Modist Oatrich. Double Stout with flaked oats, malted oats, Golden Promise, Caramel malt & roasted Chocolate malts. 

7.5 % ABV. Modist Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

Deep black, fully opaque, short-lived brown head. 

In the nose: Roasty, malty, rich. Hints of cocoa and caramel. 

In the mouth: Majorly smooth and silky. Oats aplenty in the mouthfeel here. Much malt. Delicately played flavors of chocolate and caramel that dance delightfully on the palate. Full body, wonderful balance. Never too much anything. Beautifully free of gimmicks. Hardly a marshmallow or maple syrup in sight. This is a Modist beer? I can hardly believe it. 

Anytime Modist makes a beer that isn't yet another DDH Hazy IPA or some fruity sweet gimmicky thing, I want to try it. I'm glad I got to drink this one. 

Double stout brewed with flaked oats, malted oats, golden promise malted barley, T-50 caramel malt, chocolate malt and roasted midnight wheat malt.

Invictus Twin Cities Live It's 3 O'Clock Somewhere Hazy Pale Ale

Invictus Twin Cities Live It's 3 O'Clock Somewhere Hazy Pale Ale. Beer for the Unconquerable Soul. 

4.5 % ABV, 40 IBU. Invictus Brewing, Blaine, MN. 

And here we have a hazy pale ale. Usually, I eschew such offerings, for I have grown exceedingly weary of the hazies. But it was given to me, and I must always accept. Once in my possession, I must review. It is the way. 

It's hazy alright, and bright golden, with a slim white head. 

In the nose: Alive with citrusy hop notes, orange, lemon, tangerine. A hint of grapefruit. All smothered in fuzz. 

In the mouth: Bright and foggy at once. Juicy, shiny hops play on the palate. And below it's a murky mess with gobs of goopy glop. It's a hoppy, hazy pale ale and it can surely be drunk, but...I just find no joy in this. Pale ales should be crisp and clean, not mangled up in muck. Gets a solid "eh" out of me. 

La Doña Enmolada Mole Stout

La Doña Enmolada Mole Stout.

7 % ABV, 31 IBU. La Doña Cerveceria, Minneapolis, MN. 

Absolute ebony, complete opacity, rich brown head above.

In the nose: Chocolate first, rich and bittersweet. Big malt. Increasing heat. Loads of loveliness. 

In the mouth: Rich malt, deep and chocolate. Full bodied and well-rounded. Light smoke and slight heat tumbles in. Keeps things nice and spicy on the palate. Very enjoyable and I'm not one for the spices, normally. 

Mole stout with cacao and serrano peppers

Surly Castles In The Sky Hazy IPA

Surly Castles In The Sky Hazy IPA. Soft. Juicy. Billowing. 

7 % ABV, Surly Brewing, Twin Cities, MN. 

I'm not crazy 'bout the hazy. This much is known. But, it was in the Surly variety pack I bought. Why did I buy it? I'm not sure. So, let's see what it's all about, anyway. 

To the eye: Hold on, folks. I don't know if you can tell from the pic, but there are way too many particulates floating around  in this glass. The beer is not old enough to look like this (canned 10/20/21). It's unpleasant. It's also hazy, orange, with a slim white head. 

(Eventually, they settle to the bottom. Did I err in the pouring? I'm awful at following the protocols of the hazies and such.) 

In the nose: Citric and soft, slightly sweet. Fairly loud aromatics. Pleasant. 

In the mouth: More soft and fuzzy, with bright and shiny happiness. Citrus and tropical notes play on the palate. Juicy mouthfeel. Medium bodied, easy drinking. Not the haziest of hazies. Once again, Surly shies away from such. It's okay, if you like that sort of thing. I continue to not. 

Finnegans Huell Melon Helles

Finnegans Huell Melon Helles.

5.1 %, 31 IBU. Finnegan's Brew Co, Minneapolis, MN. 

Here's one from a variety pack. Not the current one, the previous one. Look, I said I would try to keep this thing more current and I mean it, I am trying, I promise you. 

Clear, bright golden hue, sizable ivory head. 

In the nose: Slightly sweet, floral, malty. 

In the mouth: Crisp, clean. Light. Slight malt. Brief hops. Ease of drinking is high. Tasty stuff. I'd even go to delicious. This one is done in no time. 

Helles style lager featuring Huell Melon hops for a nice floral and crisp beer

BrewDog Hazy Jane New England-style India Pale Ale

BrewDog Hazy Jane New England-style India Pale Ale.

5% ABV. BrewDog, Ohio.

Utterly hazed-out, bright golden hue, large, lush ivory head. 

In the nose: Beautiful aromatics, happiness abounds. Citrus and pine aplenty. A touch of the tropical. 

In the mouth: Big hop presence on the palate. Moderate bitterness. Smooth and easy-going. Definitely drinkable. Juicy citrus flavors, a twist of sweetness. Great consumablitly. Just doesn't move me, in particular. I know why people like hazies, but their reasons for liking them are my reasons for not. 

EMBRACE THE OPAQUE, 

The lower strength version of Hazy Jane which is now called Hazy O-G.

Arbeiter Spruced Sessionista

Arbeiter Spruced Sessionista.

4.7 % ABV, 23 IBU. Arbeiter Brewing, Minneapoils, MN. 

Clear, bright golden color, large ivory cap atop. 

In the nose: Lightly hopped, with the spruce coming up from behind. Floral, fruity. 

In the mouth: Light bodied, easy on the palate, with spruce flavor taking command from the start. Citrusy lemon and lime flavor melds with the spruce. A touch of stone fruit emerges as well. Exceptionally drinkable and full of lively delights. I like this one. 

Freshly cut blue spruce tips flash-frozen and flown in from Colorado and added to the standard Sessionista.

A clear, crisp crusher featuring Callista hops. Callista exhibits stone fruit aromas along with these more traditional hop elements.

Clown Shoes Space Cupcake India Pale Ale

Clown Shoes Space Cupcake India Pale Ale.

6% ABV, Clown Shoes Beer, Boston, MA. 

Clear, golden/amber color, large and lace-leaving white head. 

In the nose:  the nose: Dankness. Ripe citrus and stone fruit. Candied apricots meets orange peel. 

In the mouth: Juciy and dank at first, full on fruity, good blast of bitterness, before ending long and dry.  Medium bodied and extra crinkable. Loads of hoppy delights to be found here. Stone and citrus fruit flavors abound, festooned in brash bitterness. 

I like this one. The only problem is that it's over far too soon. 

Every Space Cupcake has been evil…until now.

This rebellious little turncoat thought he was fighting the good fight as a member of the Space Cake Armada. Turns out he was unwittingly an enforcer of galactic tyranny. One daring escape later (with a healthy dose of mayhem on the way out), the first Space Cupcake to escape the Armada is free to stop following orders and start following his moral compass.

Space Cake’s signature sweet malt backbone and juicy hop profile meet a sessionable ABV in this American IPA. Mosaic hops are front and center in the citrusy aroma and flavor this delectable IPA presents.

Destihl Peanut Butter Porter

Destihl Peanut Butter Porter. American Porter with Peanut Butter Flavor.  Nutty Chocolate Smooth. 

6.1 % ABV, 23 IBU. Destihl Brewing,Normal, IL. 

Dark brown. Thoroughly opaque. Full  brown head. 

In the nose: Nuts beat the drum form the first step. Peanutty, chocolatey, malty. Just enough sweetness, never too much. 

In the mouth: Silky smooth and full of peanut buttery goodness. Medium bodied, well balanced, just enough bitter to keep the sweet in check. All the parts convene in harmony. Good ol' drinking peanut butter porter. 

Chocolate & caramel notes from roasted malt collide with creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter, creating a luxurious combination on the palate. Subtle sweetness, medium body & creamy mouthfeel give way to a smooth finish, providing a liquid dessert sensation for the senses.

Lagunitas Stereohopic IPA Vol. 3 Citra & Nectaron Hops

Lagunitas Stereohopic IPA Vol. 3 Citra & Nectaron Hops.

7.2 % ABV, 65 IBU, Lagunitas Brewing, Petaluma & Chicago. 

To the eye: Clear, bright golden color, slim white head. 

In the nose: Citrus aplenty, highly hop forward. 

In the mouth: Bold, bright, fresh and lively. Citrus, citrus, and more citrus. Orange and lemon, with a splash of grapefruit, and a hint of berries and melon. Just a little juicy, but over all dry. Light bodied and extra-easy drinking. Long bitter finish. Heck of an IPA. 

Three Floyds Crushing Mass Barrel Aged Coffee Stout

Three Floyds Crushing Mass Barrel Aged Coffee Stout.

15.1 % ABV, 23 IBU. Three Floyds Brewing, Munster, IN.

Strictly ebony, complete opacity, slim brown head. . 

In the nose: Enormous aromatics, barrel and coffee comes spilling out. Intense. Deep. Dark. Extreme.  Almost too much. 

In the mouth: Amazingly rich,  incredibly thick. I will tire of superlatives to describe the effects of this one. We have plenty of coffee on the palte, and loads of barrel aging effects, the dark fruits and vanilla. The sweet, rich, earthy dark coffee flavors, the maple, the oak, the smoke, the incredible depth and richness. And Holy Shit, the ABV comes pounding in. Pretty goddamned awesome. 

Between the time when the oceans drank Atlantis, and the rise of the barrel-aged beers, there was an age undreamed of. And unto this, Crushing Mass, a barrel-aged coffee stout destined to reign with a terrifying roar. It is you, true believer, who can now taste the saga and relive the days of high adventure! 

Odell Positive Latitude Passion Fruit Imperial IPA

Odell Positive Latitude Passion Fruit Imperial IPA.

8% ABV, 75 IBU, Odell Brewing, Fort Collins, CO. 

Lightly (chill) hazed, bright golden color, dazzling ivory head, large and lasting. 

In the nose: Slightly sweet, tropical, and nicely hopped. 

In the mouth: Hop attack at the forefront, big with the bitterness. Fruit comes in quickly, but tit's nice and even, fine and mellow, and very refreshing. As refreshing a an Imperial IPA can be. Light bodied, never-ending flavors, with ABV slowly revealing itself, then digging in for the long haul. 

A positive delight. 

Change your state of mind and come with us on a journey to a Positive Latitude. Loaded with passion fruit and juicy hops that amplify the tropical notes, this Imperial IPA will whisk you away on your next adventure. 

Maine Beer Company Mean Old Tom Stout Aged on Natural Vanilla Beans

Maine Beer Company Mean Old Tom Stout Aged on Natural Vanilla Beans.

6.5 % ABV , Maine Beer Company, Freeport, ME. 

Strictly black, completey opaque, slim ring of creamy tan foam resting above.

In the nose: Sweet and creamy, minor hints of cocoa and coffee, toffee, caramel. Vanilla rules over all. 

In the mouth: Malt forward, naturally. Excellent balance. Vanilla is here, but not overpowering. Very mellow, and altogether cool. Cocoa and coffee mix well with vanilla beans, while shying away from too much sweetness. All in all, a wonderful beverage. More, please.

I was a little disappointed. I thought that this was named for a cat, not the owner's uncle. 

Our American-style stout aged on natural vanilla beans. Intense notes of coffee and dark chocolate lead way to subtle notes of natural vanilla. Flaked oats generate a silky mouthfeel. 

Indeed Cal-Ida West Coast Style IPA

Indeed Cal-Ida West Coast Style IPA. 

7 % ABV, 60 IBU. Indeed Brewing, Minneapolis, MN. 

Cal for California, Ida for Idaho-7 hops, I think.

To the eye: Clear, bright golden hue, large, looming ivory cap atop. 

In the nose: Gorgeous. Citric and floral meet. Vibrant grapefruit, orange and lemon/lime. Expressive hoppiness. 

In the mouth: Starts out juicy, pungent, bitter, dank. Better be some bitterness, or it's no West Coast IPA. Crisp, clean, bursting with hop bitterness, citrusy, dank goodness overflowing. Medium bodied, long hoppy finish. This one's got the goods. Could be a little drier, a little bit more bitter, just a touch brittle. But, we're nearly there, almost all the way to West Coast IPA perfection. We don't get there very often. Too many have lost the path. The old ways have nearly been forgotten, in the devotion to the fuzz and the fog, the sweet and the ...choke...pillowy. (Blech!) Let's hear it for real IPAs!

Thanks, Indeed! I knew you could do it! 

Haw River Mille Fleur Rustic Saison

Haw River Mille Fleur Rustic Saison. Dry-hopped Farmhouse Style. Blonde Ale brewed with malted spelt. 

5.8 % ABV, 28 IBU. Haw River Farmhouse Ales, Saxapahaw, NC. 

Lightly clouded, bright golden color, slim white head. 

In the nose: Belgian yeast funk, fruit, spices. Bright and barnyard-y. 

In the mouth: Tart at the front, then fresh and fruity. Citrus with a splash of stone. Lean bodied and malty. Minimal hops. Slightly sweet for a spell, then turning dry on the way out. Quite tasty. Good ol' easy drinking saison, how I like them when I find them. 

Thanks to Dave for sharing. 

With a name that translates to “a thousand flowers”, our saison is brewed with both malted barley and artisan spelt, offering up a fresh bouquet of both Crystal and Sorachi Ace hops and finishing dry & crisp on the palate.

Junkyard Jowls Mango-Tangerine Blueberry Sour

Junkyard Jowls Mango-Tangerine Blueberry Sour.

5.8 % ABV, Junkyard Brewing, Moorhead, MN. 

And here we have a beer that I certainly could have bought for myself if I had wanted to many months ago, but didn't, because I have been skipping the sours. How does it end up in my possession? Well, I brought too many beers to Christmas and so did my Fargo nephew Daniel, and we did a trade. And here we go....

To the eye: Thick, impenetrable, raspberry-ish look, thin red head. 

In the nose: oh, so fruity. Ever so fruity. Jammy. But it's mango-tangerine and blueberry, huh? Is that right? I certainly can't pick them apart. 

In the mouth: Big fruit. big pulp. Mostly sweet, some sour. Not enough to label it a "sour", not at all. I honestly can't taste anything but fruit. I mean, that's cool, that's nice, but it ain't beer no more. There's nothing beer-like about this. Nothing sour-like, either. Boy, oh, boy. 

Jowls is dripping with the most extravagant fruit combination! It attacks your tastebuds with tart blueberry and juicy tangerine. Pops of mango complete this sour, giving it a full, smooth sweetness! This fierce trio is so good, it will have you swimming through dangerous waters just to get another sip!

Eggenberg Urbock 23

 Schloss Eggenberg Urbock 23 Doppelbock.

10.5 %, 23 IBU. Schloss Eggenberg, Vorchdorf, Oberösterreich Austria. 

There is no evidence of my ever having this beer before. Which is strange. It seems that I should have had it, at least once, in the past 18. 19 years. Yet, it is not here on this blog, nor on BeerAdvocate. Neither have I reviewed it on RateBeer. Never. Not once. How is this possible?

So, Dave gave me a bottle that he'd been holding on to for too long. How could I have never had it? That seems so unlikely, yet all the evidence points at that not being the case. Guess I'd better drink it and write a damned review already. 

So, it's the Schloss Eggenberg brewery and their Urbock Doppelbock of 23 degrees. It's a product of Austria and a pale doppelbock. 

To the eye: Nothing pale about it. Dark crimson, burdundyish, no head...I do wonder how old this is...it looks pretty much dead. 

In the nose: plums, dates, leather. Dark malts, and overripe fruits. It's pretty long gone. Except for 1681, I can't find a date anywhere on the label. It's fallen off...

And now to drink!

Malty, fruity, rich and dead. There's a depth and a wealth of alcohol, but no fire. Chocolatey, caramely, ...but, lifeless. Again, I have no idea how old this bottle is, but it's definitely too old. I know I've tasted this in it's prime, but it must have been outside of my normal note-taking and internet logging. 

I'm enjoying this ghost of the thing that once was, imagining what it was before...and accepting what it is now...

Schloss Eggenberg Urbock 23° is one of the strongest beers in the world. We keep the Urbock 23° in our Schloss cellars for 9 months until it is dark gold and strongly matured. Urbock 23° has received the highest acknowledgments and honours at international exhibitions and world evaluations. It is brewed exclusively from natural raw ingredients after the purity requirement of 1516. Schloss Eggenberg Urbock is filled in a 0.33 litre designer bottle embossed with Schloss Eggenberg and in barrels for the export (20 and 30 litre).

Destihl Redbird Ale Expertly Crafted American Red Ale

Destihl Redbird Ale Expertly Crafted American Red Ale.

5.3 % ABV, 32 IBU. Destihl Brewing, Normal, IL. 

Clear, bright crimson coloring, large and lasting creamy off-white head. 

In the nose: Slightly sweet, rich, and malty. Flavors of cherry and apple pop out. 

In the mouth: More cherries, berries, apple. Lightly hoppy, more malt. Medium bodied, long malty finish. Hops are here, and well balanced. This is a tasty little number, and quite a nice rendition of the red ale style, which basically does not exist anymore. Very few people care about them anymore, but that's no reason they shouldn't be brewed and made available. Most of the people who think they want hazy IPAs probably really want red ales. 

American-style red ale brewed in honor of our Illinois state bird. Medium caramel sweetness balances pleasant hop bitterness, aroma and flavor. 

Firestone Walker Mind Haze Double IPA

Firestone Walker Mind Haze Double IPA.

8.3 % ABV, 35 IBU. Firestone Walker Brewing, Paso Robles, CA. 

All hazed up, of course, dull orange color, large and lush ivory head. 

In the nose: Soft and suffocated. Gauze covers all. Citrus and sweetness. Orange and grapefruit and...pixie dust? What? Something ethereal is happening, and you don't know what it is, now, do you, Mr. Jones? 

In the mouth: More sweetness, more sugar, and barely any bitter. Goopy and gunky. Juicy and thick with protein and yeast. Bold and brash citrusy hop flavors shine bright on the palate, but are deadened and dulled. The alcohol comes roaring in, swaddled in the haze. 

Here's the thing, you guys. I finished two cans of this before this one, from the variety pack, and I swallowed them without complaint, knowing what they were and just wanting something wet and hoppy to slide down my throat. But, something happens when I stop to seriously consider the beer. When I think of what it is and why it is. I recall a tasting we had at the store not too long ago, when I asked the rep doing the tasting about her favorite. Her response: the original, Mind Haze. Me: No, mine is the original, Union Jack, and also, Double Jack, no haze at all! I don't think she even knew about them.

Here we go again, old man yells at clouds, once more. 

It's a good double hazy, if that's your thing. Definitely not mine. 

A pillowy soft and smooth double hazy IPA boasting huge tropical notes of pineapple, mango, and melon balanced with light bitterness and sweetness.

"Pillowy", everyone. It's like having a pillow in your mouth.