Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Wolaver's India Pale Ale

Wolaver's India Pale Ale
Otter Creek Brewing Company got me. Never buy two sixpacks by same company at one time. Didn't realize they made Wolaver's beers until I got to car and looked at beer caps. The beer? Hops understated. Accompanying flavors lacking. Scent vague. Musty and indistinct. Not good enough.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Otter Creek Brewing Company Summer


Otter Creek Summer
Starting with the good stuff: Has very pleasing golden color!!! But...not much of a scent. Thin head. Can pick up on some wheat; otherwise it's low on flavor. Little bit of citrus maybe, but it's really slight. Very simple beer. Passable in a pinch. Not memorable.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Friday, June 15, 2012

Bad Service, Slimey Pork Sandwich Puts Fork in Brother Paul's as Viable Dining Option

“Why did we stop going to Brother Paul’s?”

This is the question I asked my wife when we were thinking of going to the Eagleville, Pennsylvania establishment a couple weeks ago. The reasons were somewhat vague in my head. I sort of remember friends of ours saying they got hassled about coming into play darts too late? I think there was something where another friend wanted a certain sort of glass for his beer and it was seen as a major affront by the staff. There may have even been something in there about a waitress being generally rude. But we couldn’t really remember so I figured we should make a return trip.

Anyway, now that we have returned, the reason for our lack of patronization over the last few years has been crystallized anew: The service blows. And the food isn’t much better.

Tale of the Pie: Colosseo Pizza

The truth is there was no burning desire within me to try Colosseo Pizza. My Mom and myself had just taken Saucy Jr. to the Philadelphia Zoo when she mentioned stopping someplace for pizza. She didn’t have a place in mind. She simply knew there was a place around the Community College of Philadelphia. Even after we had found the place and tried their pizza, I didn’t know the name of the place. I had to look it up later.

Colosseo Pizza.

Monday, June 11, 2012

King of the Case: Troegs Brewing Company


Wherein I will buy a variety case and decide what the best beer in it is.

HopBack Amber Ale
When it comes to beer, I am a hops man first. Often times, when beers put a major stress on malt, they risk losing me. But this seemed to me to be a pretty ideal balance of the two ingredients.

DreamWeaver Wheat
This was really great! The banana taste jumped out. Big-time lemony punch. So crisp and easy-drinking, yet oddly flavorful and complex. A truly superior beer.

Pale Ale
I definitely enjoyed drinking this, but I remember thinking that there wasn't a terrific complementary aspect to bolster the hops.

Sunshine Pils
This is pretty good. A very nice beer to drink six of on a hot summer day. However, if it is beer adventurousness you seek, it would probably be best to look to a different choice.

The Labels
Will be honest: Have never really liked Troegs labels. They seem very old-fashioned to me. So let's start with the clear loser: the Pale Ale does not grab the eye at all. Just a reddish "Pale Ale" stamp on a green label. Not good. HopBack Amber doesn't grab me visually either. That leaves Sunshine Pils' smiling sun character against the magical tree image of DreamWeaver Wheat. I'm going with DreamWeaver because it took a long time for me to realize that the branches were spelling out "Troegs." Pretty clever.

The Winner
First of all, I apologize for this edition of King of the Case. I drank this case nearly a month ago and took absolutely ZERO notes. You see, I thought about giving it up after I lost to Lew Bryson in the Beer Scene writer competition. Suddenly I was drinking the case not to review it but simply to drown my sorrows. At that point, it seemed a little odd to take notes on stuff like "mouthfeel" and "texture." This being said, we like the good people at Troegs and we don't think it is right for them to lose their case review simply because the readers of Beer Scene made an incredibly horrible decision, like so many myopic boxing judges! Luckily for us, it doesn't take notes to tell you that there is a clear winner in this case: DreamWeaver Wheat. This is a classic of the hefeweizen genre. If you see it at your local bar - especially on tap - make sure to purchase it. It should also be said that this was the Beer Scene selection for the area's best wheat beer. Damn them. Sometimes, they really do get it right!
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Beer Week 50 Word Special: Via Marconi Sports Bar & Restaurant

The following beers were consumed at Via Marconi Sports Bar & Restaurant during a Beer Week visit.


Dogfish Head Robert Johnson's Hellhound on My Ale
Beer was named after the legendary blues musician who alledgedly sold his soul to the Devil for the ability to play a mean guitar. Awesome. Perfect balance of hops and malt. Love the glass it was served in! A heavy, freaking goblet! Type of simple, effective beer Dogfish frequently avoids.


Dogfish Head Pearl Jam Twenty Faithfull Ale
Wasn't a Pearl Jam man. Or, I should say, I didn't think they won the Pearl Jam vs. Nirvana battle that divided America in the early 90s until Cobain exited stage left. They were OK. Like this weak, slightly winish beer. Maybe if it had been named after Kurt's band.


Port Brewing Mongo Double IPA
As I was drinking, wondered if it was a double IPA. Hops seemed too understated if it was (it was). Pours color between golden and amber. While it's somewhat light for my linking, it has an interesting makeup: California citrus kick emerges in finish rather than on surface.

Best of the Bunch: Dogfish Head Robert Johnson's Hellhound on My Ale
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Beer Week 50 Word Special: Capone's Restaurant

The following beers were consumed at Norristown's Capone's Restaurant during a Philly Beer Week visit.

Weyerbacher Last Chance IPA
A beer befitting the winner of Beer Scene Magazine's brewer of the year (even if I don't like them because they picked Lew Bryson over me for Writer of the Year). Citrusy. Subtly hopped. Pleasingly crisp. Dry, piney notes. Thick, persistent head. Simulates the West Coast style well.


Avery Brewing Company Maharaja Double IPA
An amber, almost brown color. Features a powerful hop scent and taste. There's a bit of caramel in there, a nice helping of grapefruit. There's a bit of an aftertaste, but not a bad one, one you don't mind sticking around. Smoothly textured, it's another winner from the Colorado masters.

The Lost Abbey Carnevale
Had once sampled this Saison on not one, but two consecutive trips to Fairmount's St. Stephen's Green. Was that good. Make it a third time. Despite alarmingly quick head dissipation, Belgian-style spicing pops. Has an easy-drinking summer feel and a bit of minty flavor in the finish.

Nebraska Brewing Company Hop God
Was listed as a combination Belgian Tripel and West Coast IPA, a description that grabbed my attention immediately. Ended up being a bit of a letdown to me. Pickled up more Tripel than IPA. Spicing registers, but it wasn't potent enough to live up to the hype.

Best of the Bunch: Avery Maharaja
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Great Beer, Nice Guys, and Some Borderline Creepy Tweets: A Night with Free Will Brewing Company

The other night (more like twelve days ago), I went to Chap’s Taproom for a couple of reasons. First of all, they had their Quizzo night going. Second, friends of ours were moving to Ireland for a decent stretch so we wanted to send them out with a good time. Quite frankly, the fact that the makers of Perkasie’s Free Will Brewing Company were going to be there had absolutely nothing to do with my walking through the doors on that late-May night.

Well, a few thoughts:
1)      We won in Quizzo and we didn’t even have to use our smartphones. Take that, technology. And cowardly users of said technology for Quizzo purposes.
2)      Our friends had a wonderful evening and have since touched down safely in the Emerald Isle, where I am sure they are having a swell time and eating lots of Lucky Charms.
3)      I sure am glad I got to taste the offerings of Free Will Brewing Company since the experience revealed them as seriously up-and-coming beer makers. Plus, they were darn nice guys.

A couple week’s remove from beer consumption will leave details about as scarce as ice sculptures in the Sahara so don’t expect much insight on the beverages here. Let’s just say their Destiny’s Wit was a crisp, refreshing wheat beer that I wouldn’t mind drinking several of on a warm summer afternoon. Their Citra Pale Ale, which has been reviewed on this site and beat Stoudt’s Karnival Kolsch in a hotly contested episode of Growler Wars, is a powerfully hopped specimen with notes of pine, caramel, grapefruit, and more. And the crown jewel of their collection – at least in this reviewer’s eyes – is the 7 Course Red Ale, a malty, smoky, almost stoutish monster that was so good it moved me to buy a growler of it two days after sampling it for the first time. It went on to beat Long Trail’s Double IPA, making the brewery the first ever to win two different segments of our Growler Wars series – an honor that unfortunately is worth about as much as a bunch of gold bricks would be to a man drowning in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
Needless to say, their beer is good. But the story doesn’t end there. I actually got to talk to the guys. When I realized that the guys from Free Will were going to be at the event, I threw a shout via Twitter, the incredibly powerful social media site for people who are naïve enough to think that other human beings actually care what they think. They returned with one saying they would like to meet me. After several missed opportunities and tweets back-and-forth, including one where I accidentally revealed that I had just returned from the process of urination, we were able to chat for a few minutes. Shockingly, considering the level of detail I passed along to Dominic Capece, co-owner and co-brewmaster (with John Stemler)of Free Will, he had no reluctance to shake my hand and he did not require that Chap’s Taproom supply him with armed guards before making my acquaintance.

Before I pass along some details about our conversation, you must realize a few things:
1)      It’s been a week.
2)      It was somewhat loud.
3)      I was somewhat drunk.
4)      I am somewhat socially inept.
5)      I am somewhat scared that Dominic could have considered our conversation off the record and that I could be sued or, worse, banned from purchase of 7 Course Red for the rest of my days above ground.

So here’s what I got. The guys got their start making beer at home and then they started making it for parties that a friend would host. The attendees at those parties enjoyed the brew so much that they decided to take it larger-scale. Right now, they have a small operation in Perkasie. They make the three beers that I stated above. They also do not bottle or can. The beer is only made for draft consumption. However, the gents are eyeing expansion (both real estate wise and beer genre wise) should growth continue at its current state. That growth includes not only the event at Chap’s, but the presence of their beer at establishments like Whole Foods Plymouth Meeting, where the Pizza Project purchased both growlers reviewed for the site. Although I did not ask what he does for a “living,” I also learned that Dominic has an actual day job. This is something that I was shocked to learn because, when you can make beer this endlessly drinkable, you really shouldn’t be wasting your time doing things as trivial as punching a clock or curing cancer. As I think back, I believe that is pretty much all of the details that I got out of Dominic before leaving due to my own borderline psychotic fear of pauses in the conversation. Other than the fact that he has wonderful, piercing eyes. Seriously, I’m glad my wife wasn’t there on this night. She probably would have left with him. The bastard!
So here is pretty much all you need to know about Perkasie’s Free Will Brewing Company: It’s very good beer made by very cool people. Try it if you see it on tap.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Friday, June 8, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Cricket Hill Brewing Company American Ale


Cricket Hill American Ale
In color, it is almost a brown ale. Not a very appealing scent. Malts are the element that jumps out most. Hops are there, but not a very good balance. There's not much in the way of supporting flavors here. It's a straightforward beer and not an exceptional one.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Old Forge Brewing Company Endless Summer Ale

Old Forge Endless Summer Ale
Bought this beer because I was attracted by the canned sixpack of 16-ounce pounders. A little bit of wheat taste. Little bit of hops. Little bit of an aftertaste. Basically, it has a little bit of flavor, period. Very disappointing purchase. Not much better than big-box light beers.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Thursday, June 7, 2012

McKenzie Brew House Makes a Great Meatloaf (and Plenty of Quality Beer)

I had heard a lot about McKenzie Brewhouse over the years so when one (somewhat) recently opened in Devon (or Berwyn, or whatever), a visit became a virtual inevitability. We're pleased to say that the visit was totally worthwhile, and I only hope that other people begin to agree so that this maker of good brews can remain in my area for a decent stretch of time.

We visited on a Sunday for lunch. The place was absolutely beautiful and supremely spacious. We were there with our young son so we were not going to be sitting at the bar, but a quick drive-by marked it as a fine place to sit and have a beer. From our table, we were able to view their brewing area. While there was no one at work on brewing, it was a nice touch to have such a transparent view of the operating systems and I imagine it would be fun to watch over a dinner during a busier time. And I wonder if that is a concern? True, we were there on a Sunday around noon in the summertime. When people think brunch, a brewery/restaurant probably isn't the first place they think of. But the lack of people certainly did have me worried that business may not be picking up as quick as ownership might like. Hopefully, these concerns are totally unwarranted.

Now to the beverages. I was the only person of our party to drink beer (friends went with Mimosa and Bloody Mary, respectively, while the wife went with a water, and the kid inexplicably chose chocolate milk) so I figured I would go all out. After downing a very decent, citrus-laced Application IPA, I called for a sampler. Along with the IPA, it featured a Saison, an American Pale Ale, a Belgian Wheat, a Belgian Pale Ale, a light beer, a stout, and a dreaded barleywine. As we were there to have lunch with our friends, I didn't take a ton of notes, but I do have a memory of which ones shined and which ones didn't. I've already mentioned that the IPA was agreeable, but I also found that the establishment excelled in the area of the Belgians. Both the Belgian Wheat and the Belgian Pale Ale were highlights. The unquestioned best was the Saison Vautour Farmhouse Ale. It absolutely soared with a "dry hoppiness" and a "significant addition of malted rye." (Uh....sorry about the quotes. I'm writing this write off of my beer stained souvenir sampler mat. I also found (and this is a shocker, because I despise the stuff) the barleywine to be quite tasty. Flavors were a lot more subtle than I've ever experienced in a barleywine. I almost think regular barleywine drinkers (if such creatures exist) might think it a little weak. But for someone like me, the thing was perfect.

In the area of duds, I have to touch on McKenzie Light. I understand the need to pander to the cretin who walks off the street and enjoys the refreshing taste of horse piss upon their lips, but this just wasn't good. It had a bitter, vinegary mouthfeel that I've never even experienced in a Coors Light forced into my hands at a frat house party. And while it is easy to dismiss this as a fine brewer not having his heart in the beverage for the common people, I will say that back in the day Rock Bottom (a similar sort of establishment in King of Prussia) made a very good light beer called Lumpy Dog Light. I would often get it despite its lack of heft due to its crisp, refreshing nature. Moral of the story: If you are not into making the light beer, just get it off the menu and force the beer amateur to try something new.

While I am not a fan of stouts, I also have to call bull on McKenzie's Oatmeal Stout. When you consider that the sampler mat describes the potion as "silky and smooth," it will come as some surprise when your first sip gives you the same off-putting, sour notes as the Light. Maybe I just got a bad batch, but if I was a big stout supporter and I bought a pint (and I had any courage or love of confrontation, of which I have none of either), I would ask for a refund.

Aside from the two beers I described, I would give McKenzie's a very nice B grade for their beers. But what of their food? Would its focus on the brews leave the food as a mere afterthought? Absolutely not. I can not vouch for their omelettes and such because I took the brunch road less traveled. That is right: I saw meatloaf on the menu and pounced. Many times, I find that people make a fundamental mistake when serving the dish. They simply don't give you enough. Look, if I am ordering meatloaf at noon it means that I am a hearty eater...and probably a bit of a freak. I want a finely cooked piece of meat, yes. But I also want it big. And McKenzie delivered with a sizeable portion and plenty of rich, flavorful gravy (not enough gravy being another common meatloaf faux pas). With my meal, I had the choice of gravy or BBQ sauce and the piece comes with onion rings and field greens (they quite nicely allowed me to substitute fries for onion rings because I quite simply can't think of something less appetizing to me than a big-ass fried onion). It was the sort of dish that, upon future visits to the establishment, will force me into a form of menu paralysis. You know, when you are looking at the all of the menu options, but your eyes keep moving back to the meatloaf subconciously. It was that good.

It should also be said that the service at McKenzie's was spectacular. As I said, our server did not have a lot of customers to take her attention away from us, but aside from being attentive, she was also courteous, friendly, knowledgeable about the beer, and actively engaging of our young one, making jokes and bringing him some materials to play with sans an eager plea from his parents.

All in all, McKenzie Brew House offers a very quality experience with good beer, delicious food, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in which to consume both. Hopefully, the customers are flocking while I am looking the other way. It would be nice to keep these guys in the neighborhood.
--

McKenzie Brew House
324 West Swedesford Road
Berwyn, PA 19312

McKenzie Brew House (Berwyn) on Urbanspoon


--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Viven Imperial IPA

Viven Imperial IPA
Had this beer at TJ's the other night as well. Was one of two double IPAs I tried that night. Other one was a bit better. That being said, I don't remember the name of the superior one. This was still good though. Try it if you get a chance!
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Pretty Things Beer & Ale Project Jack D'Or

Pretty Things Beer & Ale Project Jack D'Or
The Audubon Ale House has a pretty decent beer selection. Still, I was constantly intrigued when I would approach their freezer case and see the cool label art of this Massachusetts Saison. Lemony scent. Slightly bitter mouthfeel. Golden color. Effervescent head. Bit of a lingering aftertaste. Overall, quite fine.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Stillwater Stateside Saison

Stillwater Stateside Saison
Been a while since I tried this beer at TJ's. All I remember is I really liked it. And that I wished it had come in a bigger glass. And that it made me want to drink more beer from Stillwater. And that I forgot to take notes.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Copabanana: It Simply Hasn't Aged Well

I mentioned earlier in a post about Tapestry’s Cirque du Saison event that we had also hit South Street’s Copabanana. There is a reason for that: You see, the wife is pregnant. She is always hungry and she always has to pee. The hunger part: The barbecue sandwiches Tapestry was serving seemed to be recklessly overpriced so she wanted to go someplace else to eat. The pee part: We were looking for someplace else when she told me she had to go to the bathroom, so we had to end the hunt for the hot new Zagat-recommended hipster hangout to be named later and go to the closest place possible. That was Copabanana.

I will say that Copabanana used to be a major attraction for us during the days when we used to frequent the area. First of all, they made terrific margaritas and a wonderful variety of the drink at that. They also made some darn good nachos, some of the best in town if you were to ask us, and we fashioned ourselves as major nacho aficionados (in other words, we once struggled with weight issues).

Well, it has been a long time since our man-about-town salad days. These days, it takes a Congressional order to get us out of Norristown. And in the time between these two periods of our lives, it would appear that Copabanana has fallen on hard times. Its neon décor has become a bit quaint in these days where “authenticity” is in such high demand. Their menu lacks adequate beer choices, which is fairly rare in a time where Philadelphia has emerged as perhaps the greatest beer city in America. And…well, let’s just say, in order to eat outside we had to present a driver’s license that the establishment would hold onto until we had paid for our meal. The place’s clientele must leave something to be desired if a diner eating al fresco is being looked upon as a Watergate-burglar-in-training.

In any event, this being Philly Beer week, I WAS going to have a beer while eating. I perused the menu for options and there were few. There was Victory Golden Monkey, which is always an enjoyable treat. It can get you somewhat bombed though. There was Dogfish 90 Minute, which apparently qualifies as an adventurous IPA for the not-so-adventurous palette. And then there was Allagash White. I was very confused to see it on the menu. Therefore, I felt it was the one I had to try. It was just a classic, incredibly refreshing wheat beer. Even without a glass (none was offered and I was afraid to ask, fearing that I would fall victim to some sort of mysterious craft beer hate crime at the hands of one of the street’s consistently menacing passersby), the flavors popped. Orange. Something banana-esque. Some coriander spices. I might have gotten a second one if the service wasn’t a bit spotty, our waitress disappearing for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

For food, we ordered a plate of their primo macho nachos, a side of their Spanish fries, and an order of steak tacos. The nachos were still awesome, packed as they were with chili, jalapenos, salsa, and sour cream. It’s not a gourmet treat and you get the idea that the ingredients are extremely store-bought. (Kidding. I didn’t get the idea. I know it because I saw a manager coming back from a local store with, like, eight bags full of Ortega taco shells for making of the establishment’s tacos. Then I hilariously heard some nearby workers ragging on the poor sap because he had bought the wrong item. They needed tortilla chips, not taco shells. DUH!) Still, I believe that the item is worth the price of admission simply for the pure amount of accoutrements. I didn’t consume a naked chip. This is key.

The other items unfortunately did not earn any sort of rave, on a curve or otherwise. First of all, the steak tacos were served in some sort of odd soft shell. It wasn’t a full tortilla. It was cut in half or something. It was as if the establishment was afraid it was going to run out of shells (see previous note: it probably was). The actual steak was tough and overdone, and the flavor wasnonexistent. As for garnishments, the salsa was really scarce, the lime hard to detect, and the odd choice of a radish simply did not appeal. As for the Spanish fries, Copabanana’s website calls the dish “famous.” But if this is the case, they must be famous in the same way that Kim Kardashian or Paris Hilton is famous. In other words, it wasn’t earned and certainly isn’t based on merit and accomplishment. Nothing about the dish, slathered as it is with cheese and jalapenos, marks it as something you would want to experience a second time.

If you choose to go to Copabanana, I sure hope it is because you want to see a girl of moderate fitness wearing see-through, tight white jeans with black-and-white zebra striped underwear. That is there for the taking. Believe me, I saw it and still have not recovered. However, if you are there for a delicious meal and a diverse group of beer offerings, you might want to keep on walking.

Copabanana on Urbanspoon










--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Tapestry's Cirque de Saison Offers Good Beer, Lots of Fun, yet Unmet Expectations

I’m going to be honest: When I decided to hit up the South Street area’s Tapestry for my first event of Philly Beer Week, I was expecting something a little…bigger. I believe that is a little bit my fault. I chose the place because it was advertised as an outdoor street fair. I figured that if I was going to choose a Beer Week festivity to go to with my wife and kid in tow, an outdoor one with a balloon-animal maker seemed like a good one.  But, you see, it has been a while since I have been downtown. I had my Philly topography all screwed up. Where I was picturing some sort of expansive, whole-block-encompassing shindig, what I got was the side street outside of the restaurant blocked off for bystanders. While I was figuring there would be a station for all of the different Saison makers to dispense their products and, perhaps, share a bit of a lark about the brewing process, it was actually just behind the bar inside, and procurement of said suds was anything but easy-going, what with a veritable gaggle of partygoers fighting for elbow room around the tiny establishment’s bar. This being said, it was still a very enjoyable day, albeit one with serious caveats.

Friday, June 1, 2012

Growler Wars: Free Will vs. Long Trail

Two growlers. Two beers. Two frosted glasses. One winner.


Free Will Brewing Company 7 Course Red
I first had this beer at Chap's Taproom in Norristown (will do separate blog later) and, quite frankly, was blown away. It's got a reddish color. Almost brown. The malts shoot up the nose quickly as its brought up for the first sip. There's a dry, piney flavor that gives the beer an extra bit of character. Despite the full, complex flavors, it's smoothly textured. Smoky and almost stoutish, the beer just does not seem like the work of two guys from Perkasie. This is seasoned-veteran beer. A truly delicious specimen.


Long Trail Brewing Company Double IPA
Let's get the intangibles out of the way: It's a little bit of a cloudy golden color. The beer remains bubbly despite a ten-minute interval spent sipping the Free Will joint. Lively, full head. The scent is spectacular. Vibrant. Fruity. Citrusy. Floral. Truly one of the best aromas I've ever experienced in a beer. There is a very nice balance of hops and orangey flavor. Almost feels like a little bit of strawberry in the finish. If I were to have one complaint (and it would be nit-picky), I would say that it seems a tad bit light for a double IPA. Another application of hops and this beer might be completely next-level. While I have had a mixed experience with Long Trail, this is a completely legit IPA.

The Winner
Make no mistake about it: These are two exceptional beers. However, as a winner, I have to go with Free Will. The only (and I mean, only) reason I am going with Free Will is I don't believe Long Trail quite meets the grade of a double IPA. The hops are a little subtle for that genre of beer. So I am going to downgrade it slightly for not quite meeting its stated objective. While I believe 7 Course Red is the slightly better beer, the truth is, if you should see either of these beers on a tap near you, you should go ahead and make a purchase.
--


The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Rogue Chipotle Ale


Rogue Chipotle Ale
Very intriguing beer. Has distinct Rauchbier smokiness in scent and sip. Features classic amber color and genuine spiciness due to jalapeno pepper notes. Still, once you get past smokiness, flavors aren't particularly special. Type of beer you must have once, but might not want to down two of them.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Deal Alert: Pie in the Sky in Wayne

Today, LivingSocial is offering a delicious deal from Pie in the Sky Restaurant in Wayne. Pay $7 for $14 to spend on food and non-alcoholic drinks at Pie in the Sky, from the red, white, or gluten-free pizza with your favorite toppings to specialty sandwiches like the prosciutto, sharp provolone, cappicola, and Genoa salami sandwich or the sausage, peppers, and onions sandwich.

Get the deal >>
Visit Pie in the Sky >>

Pie in the Sky
102 East Lancaster Avenue
Wayne, PA 19087

--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Friday, May 18, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Oskar Blues Deviant Dale's IPA

Oskar Blues Deviant Dale's IPA
When I drank this, I wasn't taking notes. It was directly after a viewing. And the Sixers game where they closed out the Chicago Bulls was playing. Needless to say, I was distracted. I remember it being extremely hoppy. And slightly better than Russian River Damnation. That's saying something, right?
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Russian River Damnation


Russian River Damnation
Spy 12-ouncers of this in stores for $8. Saw it on tap at Philadelphia's St. Stephen's Green. Had to try it. It's a very good beer. But it's not worth $8 retail for a short bottle. For that, it would have to be UNPARALLELED! Maybe come with an E pill?
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Lavery Liopard Oir Farmhouse Ale


Lavery Liopard Oir Farmhouse Ale
When I go to Wegman's, I'm allowed two sixers and a 22-ouncer due to their Draconian regulations (I'm sure the rules are created by some idiotic entity). This week, chose this Erie, Pa. beer for big bottle. Was really rooting for it. But there were no elements of note.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Flying Dog Woody Creek Belgian Style White

Flying Dog Woody Creek Belgian Style White
After having a bust of a wheat in Widmer Brothers Hefeweizen, it is nice to have a white that makes you believe in the lighter ales. This beer by the quietly great Maryland brewery is a gorgeous, effervescent clear color. The orange notes and Belgian spices combine perfectly. Total class.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Widmer Brothers Hefeweizen

Widmer Brothers Hefeweizen
Not good. There's slight lemony aroma. Cloudy color is unattractive. Flavor doesn't pops. Hints of citrus and pepper, but really bland. In attempt to get flavor out, I did a little wine mouth-swish thing. Almost choked. Heard Portland beer was on the come, but this one was wack.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Ithaca Pale Ale

Ithaca Pale Ale
First thing that scared me about this beer was the pour. The head had disappeared from the top of the glass about 3.2 seconds after the thing was full. Very average beer. Malty scent. Little bit of orange, little bit of caramel. Copper color. Nothing really offensive, nothing particularly wonderful.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Goose Island India Pale Ale

Goose Island India Pale Ale
This one ranks as a major improvement over the previously sampled Honker's Ale. It has a powerful citrus scent, a pleasant color that falls between golden and amber, and a spikey hop flavor that really pops. Also features a smooth texture that makes it go down easy as session beer.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Great Divide Hercules Double IPA

Great Divide Hercules Double IPA
This is, quite simply, an awesome beer by one of the nation's most underrated craft beermakers. Made in Colorado, the beverage features vibrant hop flavor, serious citrus kick, low-level strawberry notes, pungent, flowery scent, and dry texture that sticks around after consumption. Packs major punch at 10% ABV.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Magic Hat Elder Betty


Magic Hat Elder Betty
Another loser for Magic Hat, a high-profile brewery that I believe makes more bad beers than good. Main attraction is elderberry. Fruity for my taste. Don't know what elderberry is. Must be similar to honeydew. That's what this beer tastes like. A honeydew beer. As bad as it sounds.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Goose Island Honkers Ale

Goose Island Honker's Ale
I've had a few English bitter-style beers. They never really appeal. The version by this Chicago-based brewery is no exception. There's a little pop if you really focus, but the malts are too subtle. Have to chalk it up to the genre. Too understated. Always seems flat.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Smuttynose Shoals Pale Ale

Smuttynose Shoals Pale Ale
First thing about this beer: coloring is brown for a "pale" ale. Then the aroma. Nails you right in the nostrils as you lift to lips. The sip? Cracks you with IPA-level hops yet goes down nice and smooth. Elite beer. Underrated brewery. Bonus: Wonderfully quirky bottle art.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Williamsburg Alewerks Wheat Ale

Williamsburg Alewerks Wheat Ale
Disappointing offering from brewery that had produced two decent hoppy bottles previous. Not much flavor. What little it has sticks around in form of a nasty aftertaste. Cloudy yellow color. Nonexistent scent. Plenty of wheat flavor (if you can call it that), but nothing there to serve as complement. Avoid.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Stoudts American Pale Ale


Stoudts American Pale Ale
Don't know what to say about this beer. On one hand, it's delicious, continuing a 2012 streak that's seen me experience numerous winners by the Adamstown brewery. Then again, the last four times I've tried to write this post, my computer's crashed. Good beer, Stoudts. But I'm moving on.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Leffe Blonde

Leffe Blonde
Like a trip in a time machine: Was one of my first steps toward craft beer many years back. Pours thick, creamy head and features a spicy yet slightly stale aroma. Belgian notes and citrus are strong. Was prepared to write off due to palette expansion, but it holds up.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Round Guys Original Slacker Ale


Round Guys Original Slacker Ale
Since I had no idea who the makers of this were prior to ordering (they're a brewery in Lansdale, Pennsylvania), was prepared to write off at first sip. But it's quality, with some really interesting composition. Drinks like simple ale, but with major rush of chocolate and malt in finish.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Southern Tier Iniquity


Southern Tier Iniquity
I was hesitant to try this beer since I've had mixed results with both black IPAs and products by New York's Southern Tier Brewing Company. But hops and stout flavor mix flawlessly. Picked up healthy amount of grapefruit and plenty of chocolate. A chocolate grapefruit. Sounds gross. But it works!
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Full Pint All In Amber

Full Pint All In Amber
Last time I had Full Pint beer, it was Chinookie IPA. Wasn't a fan. Had friend drive in from Pittsburgh for visit. Addressed Full Pint. In tribute, gave them another chance. All In Amber WAS better. Like how malts almost approach stout-flavor, yet its still crisp and easy-drinking.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: AleSmith Anvil Ale ESB

AleSmith Anvil Ale ESB
Have heard a lot about AleSmith Brewing Company recently. Based in San Diego, you would figure they would be able to produce a fine IPA. Only problem? Accidentally picked up the ESB instead of the IPA. No worries. IPA hoppiness. Significant piney notes. Complex maltiness, while retaining smooth finish.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Sixpoint Bengali Tiger

Sixpoint Bengali Tiger
American IPA by the lesser-known Brooklyn brewery that specializes in canned beers. Decent sized hop punch upon first sip. The amber beer contains a degree of citrus flavor, but it's a bit subtle for my taste. Not incredibly impressed. Hops are ample, but additional notes are fairly scarce.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Brooklyn Pilsner

Brooklyn Pilsner
Bought this beer in tribute to MCA (a.k.a., Brooklyn native and Beastie Boy Adam Yauch), then couldn't find time to write about it for a week. Nice hoppy character. Cloudy golden color. Wheaty flavor in the finish. Decent scent, although nothing spectacular. A solid, if not transcendent, beer.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/

Friday, May 4, 2012

Booze...in 50 Words or Less: Ommegang Witte

Ommegang Witte
Cooperstown, New York brewery's wheat ale features golden color, subtle citrus kick, and healthy amounts of Belgian spicing. Would be terrific beer to drink in the summer, with its light feel and session-beer ABV. A flawless specimen that leaves you impressed, yet lacks an element that creates excitement.
--

The Pizza Project
Just a nibble: http://twitter.com/ThePizzaProject
Single slice: http://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaProject
The full pie: http://thepizzaproject.blogspot.com/