bier girl blog

And we're back...almost

2010-09-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

Well, that sure was a long "trip". Let me tell you, those Jamaicans really do know how to throw a party!

No, I haven't been in the Caribbean for the last 15th months--I've actually been in twitterania. Basically, I found that posting tweets was a hell of a lot easier than writing up thoughtful full-length blog posts. Yes, I am a very very lazy Millennial.

While the blog has been less than active I have been pretty busy on the beer scene here in D.C. And the big news:

I'm moving to SquareSpace.com

Keep checking back over the next week or so and the new site www.LiBeerty.com should be up and running. To preview some of the things I'll be writing about include:

Conversations with Flying Dog's head brewer
Micro-breweries taking on the federal government
Liquor store privatization in Virginia?
Conversations with Dogfish Head east-coast distributor
A possible bier girl podcast

And more.

Until then, keep looking at the stars.

Wish You Were Here?

2009-05-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

As I sit in the fading evening light with the soothing trade winds tussling my tulle blouse I realize that old man winter died somewhere along the way. The damp chill is gone from the air, replaced by a moist warmth. The monsoon season seems to have dissipated just as I’m packing my bags for the Caribbean [don’t ask about Mexico *oink* *oink*]

So dear friends, in addition to letting the blog slip a little in recent weeks, I will be taking a vacation for a few days. But fear not, I will hopefully return with interesting stories about exotic brews like red stripe…really I’m thinking of starting a spinoff website dedicated to tropical cocktails.

Jam wicha later mon.

Psych 101: The Beer Aversion

2009-04-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

Stubbornness? No sense of adventure? Laziness? What is it about some people that they just seem to have an aversion to change?

In light of a recent interview with Keira Knightly admitting that she doesn't like beer and that it "tastes like piss water and it makes you belch," (I'm guessing Keira's never had a belgian ale) I'd like to talk about this phenomenon of the beer aversion.

There are some people [aka women] who for some reason or another absolutely refuse to touch beer with a 10-foot tongue. They'll suck on glasses of the worst rubbing-alcohol-with-red-dye that someone mislabeled as wine for an entire evening before they'll let their up-turned noses get anywhere near a glass of ale.

Perhaps they had a bad experience in college-- their first sips of natty bo quickly followed by one of the following pleasant experiences:
1. vomiting
2. ruined heels/nails/pantyhose/reputations
3. a brutal walk of shame

Or they just didn't like the taste. Fine. Understandable. I generally swear off a thing that gives me nothing but displeasure (certain boys aside of course). However, unlike these devoted anti-beerists, after my first unpleasant experiences I continued to try different varieties of beer and wine until I found brews/bottles that were palatable, nay, fantastically enjoyable.

My theory is that there is a specific personality trait that will make someone stick to "what they know" and what they are comfortable with regardless of how bad it is or how great something new might be. And this particular trait is in no way limited to the female of the species. In fact, I think men invented that outlook on life.

There is some value in sticking with what is comfortable. Like a relationships that isn't perfect or sub-optimal that person becomes family providing emotional support and a sense of stability. Food and beverages can be like that as well--you may know it as 'comfort food'. Mom's lumpy mashed potatoes may not be perfect, but you enjoy them and don't need to agonize over choosing and evaluating them. Comfort is fine...once in a while.

But some people retreat into comfort to the exclusion of new experiences that might bring different and even greater joy than old favorites.

Sigh* if only this type of logic could be applied to human relationships.

New Holiday: Biermas

2009-04-08T12:48:00.001-07:00

Beer-Mas. The only holiday you will ever need.

'Tis the Saison

2009-03-31T12:50:00.000-07:00

As the earth tilts once more, a nod toward the sun, I bask in the luxuriant glare of said starlight and know spring has arrived!

In celebration of the renewed life of the season and throwing caution to the lionesque wind, I decided to try a style of beer I've avoided for years: Saison.

Brewed at Brasserir Dupont in the French-speaking region of Belgium known as Wallonia, this brew combines the best of its bloodlines. It has a dry almost champagne-like finish and bubbling, but also has the big body and complexity that one would expect from a Belgian-beer. Saison (literally translating from French to “season”) is brewed in the cool month and lagered until the wamer months. The low-alcohol taste and carbonation make this refreshing but not weak or watery. Much like wine, the alcohol sneaks up on you. The name Saison is interchangeable with “farmhouse ale,” as a nod to the way it was once, and still is brewed (Brasserie Dupont is still a working farm) and the graininess and balanced note of citrus fruits reminds one of an al fresco dinner on the family farm and hours spent wasting time with loved ones on the veranda as the sun fades into a blissfully cool evening (if you happen to have such memories).

I chose the saison from Brasserie Dupont with no prior knowledge of the brewery or beer. I simply liked the yellow-checkered label, the slim neck, and the name (I live a stone’s throw from Dupont Circle in DC). Everything about the Dupont seemed to mesh with the beauteous weather. Little did I know that I had fortuitously chosen the best beer in the world (according to Men’s Journal in 2005).

Cozied up on my couch with the long-awaited tweets (birds not twitter) of various ornithological characters I let fly the cap. “Ah, oiu mon amour Brasserie Dupont, you have not let me down,” I thought to myself with a slight case of xenoglossy. The scent of citrus and yeast—something like lemon grass was pleasantly apparent. At first sip, the brew was sour, citrus, hops, carbonation. Not pleasant at first, but not distasteful. By the third sip it is not the lust of first scent I thought it would be, it is fully blossoming love: enduring and passionate love. This is most definitely the beginning of a beautifully long relationship.

Oh, Saison Dupont, I could stare into your sediment-clouded yellowness for all eternity.

I decline to comment any further on this marvelous drink. I advise you to go out find a pack for yourself, grab a friend or a good book and sit outside in the sun while you experience what is sure to become one of your new favorites.

More on Saison and Brasserie Dupont to follow.

A VOTRE SANTE!

Libeerty and Justice for Ale

2009-03-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know: I haven't posted in while.
No I'm not deep into a week-long bender as has been rumored. Honestly, I think I'm still recovering from the St. Pat's day/ Philly beer week fun [will have post sometime soon on that]. I have also been working a little on the new site and trying to figure out how interwebs works [www.libeerty.com].

I have been sticking to a strict diet of mostly light beers with a healthy dose of Anderson Valley Oatmeal Stout in the mix.

Anyway, check out the new site as it develops and please send me any suggestions you think might help.

Blog-to-ya soon

SKAL!

Happy Irish Stereotypes Day!

2009-03-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

I am not particularly a fan of St. Patrick's day [seeing as how it is semi-religious, a little racist, and encourages hoards of people to indiscriminately consume mass quantities of shitty beer]. That said, it is an opportunity to enlighten the masses about good beer and the benefits of beer consumed in moderation.

Despite the release of results from a recent study that shows even moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages (one per day) may increases the risk of prostate cancer, most of the research on the health effects of beer in recent years has been very positive (especially for ale-drinking females)

So here is my token Pat's day post. 9 great reasons to drink beer. This list comes straight from Allison Van Dusen's 2008 Forbes Magazine article (except for #9).

1.Protect your heart
Moderate Consumption of beer (and other alcohols) makes you 30 to 35% less likely to have a heart attack teetotalers.

2. Moderate alcohol consumption may raise HDL or "good cholesterol"

3. Beer for your Blood
Alcohol appears to be good for blood vessels, making them less likely to form a clot or for a clot to rupture and plug an artery. In an NIH study, men who reported drinking 120 to 365 days a year had a 20% lower cardiovascular death rate than those who drank one to 36 days a yea

4. Beer may protect against Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes.
Studies have shown that people with diabetes who drink moderately may be able to reduce their risk of coronary heart disease, their biggest killer. Research also indicates that a light drinking habit may help protect men and women from developing Type 2 diabetes. This may be a result of increased insulin sensitivity or anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Beer gives your Brain a Boost
A 2006 report published in a journal of the American Heart Association showed that moderate drinking may be associated with better cognitive function in women. Likewise, a 2003 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association said that adults over 65 who consume between one and six alcoholic beverages each week have a lower risk of dementia than non-drinkers and heavier drinkers.

6. Beer for Bones
Studies have shown that beer may play a role in preventing bone loss and rebuilding bone mass in men and young women--post menopausal women have not been seen to benefit. The effect is believed to be tied to the beverage's high silicon content. Excessive drinking, however, can lead to a greater number of bone fractures.

7. Feel Healthier
People who drink beer, spirits or wine tend to report fewer instances of ill health than those who abstain, according to a 2001 study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. The higher the consumption of total alcohol, researchers found, the lower the levels of subjective poor health.

8. Lower Risk of Death Overall:
A review of 50 studies has shown there's an inverse association between moderate drinking and total mortality under all scenarios for middle-aged and older adults, according to a 2005 report from the United States Department of Agriculture. The lowest risk of death appears to occur when people consume one to two drinks per day, likely a result of the protective effects against coronary heart disease and stroke.

9. Beer for Breasts
Through my own research, I also found that beer and wine may help slow down the progression of breast cancer.

So tonight, do a good deed, buy someone a *good beer and Enjoy!

Happy Saint Pat’s y’all.

Slainte

CO Kills Full-Strength Beer, But Hop Springs Eternal

2009-03-14T08:36:00.001-07:00

While Colorado law makers demonstrated their thorough disregard for free market and the individual by voting down the "grocery store" bill, (keeping full-strength beer out of grocery and convenience stores), consumers in Denver are not giving up hope.

Check out this video of the group from FreeColorado.com smashing bottles from the brewers who supported the protectionist liquor stores in their opposition to the bill.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Edp-CVQsL1c

CO Kills Beer Bill/Hopes of Consumers...for now.

2009-03-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday Colorado legislators recognized that laws regarding alcohol in that state “make no sense,” as Rep. Joe Rice the democrat from Littleton put it.
Knowing that the laws are ridiculously outdated and circuitous, they still didn't have the guts to correct the regulations because, as they asserted, passing the beer bill would only be “piecemeal”.
Really, the turnout out at the vote made them quake in their boots like a fan rooting for the guest team in a football game. They were just too damn timid to do the right thing. In my mind, that’s worth not voting for them in the future.

For fear of the ramifications of allowing full-strength beer in grocery stores, lawmakers in the state claimed that they will come back, perhaps with a ballot item, with a comprehensive reform plan for the state’s liquor policies.

That’s all well and good; regulatory reform is something more states should look into, especially with regard to post-prohibition policy, but in the mean time ditching the faux market for 3.2% beer would have been a baby step—not a misstep.

Bad move Colorado, bad move liquor stores. Now when they do come back with their “comprehensive legislation” they may attempt to completely liberalize liquor sales in CO allowing grocery stores and convenience stores the ability to sell all manner of alcohol. Perhaps all they’ll need to do is add a restaurant in the grocery stores…that’s easy enough.

I just hope, for the sake of consumers and truly innovative small businesses that lawmakers act quickly and do what is right instead of just doing what the loudest group tells them.

MADDness and Stupidity

2009-03-10T08:19:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry but these MADD people (who don't seem to realize that their acronym means crazy and not angry) have come up with what is probably the lamest argument yet to prevent grocery stores from selling full strength beer in Colorado grocery stores. Because, they say, grocery store check-out workers are often underage, if the store offers full-strength beer--these clerks won't be able to resist the temptation to take them or let their friends buy them without being carded.

The thing is, they can already basically do this. 3.2% ABV isn't that low. For example, both Yuenglin light and Heineken light have an ABV of 3.5%. Technically, these are "full- strength" beers so youngins can't find them in grocery stores...but they aren't that much stronger than the brew avaiable at Colorado convenience stores. So, are teens working in grocery stores pressured into selling 3.2% ABV brew to their friends?

Auschwitz Malt Liquor

2009-03-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

The most inappropriately named beer of all time? A new light brew for anorexic chicks with a sick sense of humor? Not really. Just the mistake of a small percent of youngsters across the pond. But thank your lucky lagers that Fox News can climb any molehill of a story and come off with a mountain of a headline:

Some of Britain's school kids think Auschwitz is a type of beer rather than a Nazi death camp, according to a new study.

A survey of around 1,000 high school students aged 11 to 16 found 10 percent of youngsters were unsure what was and 2 percent thought it was a brand of beer.

One percent thought it was a type of bread.

"We are not surprised by the results, although we are disappointed," said Stephanie Rose, of the London Jewish Cutltural Centre, who helped conduct the poll. "If we are not careful, the Holocaust will disappear into the realms of history like the battle of Trafalgar. It is vital that children are made aware of the effects of ignorance."

Philly Beer Week: Day 2

2009-03-06T09:42:00.000-08:00

Because I was lazy I didn't order tickets early enough they were all sold out and I missed the opportunity to participate in the great american craft fest. Instead, I ended up at the Isaac Newton's Brewer Luncheon with the lads of Left Hand Brewing Co. A pretty good substitute.

The Bar: Isaac's is, in my opinion, one of the best bars in the burbs. I have reserved any extensive review of the place because, as a regular, I am completely "too close to the subject" to evaluate it. I also don't want to say anything could rub the owners the wrong way and/or prompt hoards of people to start packing into my favorite spot. This barn-like building (which burnt down a few years back and was rebuilt) is a sacred convocation of people who truly appreciate the good things in life. As a way to unwind after a good day's work, the perfect way to spice up an afternoon break, or a place celebrate life with friends and family, Isaac's couldn't be better. It is a relaxed and inviting place where you can do some beer-tasting while hanging out with friends and getting a good meal and I can't say enough about the knowledgeable and amiable bartenders who are themselves true ambassadors for beer.

The Boys: I have to admit, I was already wobbly before I got up to talk with the guys (well, more wobbly than I am normally) after drinking IPAs for 2 hours. I approached the small crowd of admirers and they almost immediately brought me into the conversation. Eric and the other lads couldn't have been nicer.

I went right for the red meat (as it is my nature to bypass BS) and asked what was pissing them off policy-wise in Colorado. Chris Lennert and Dan (their PA sales rep) wandered off—probably sick of hearing about the subject, but Eric Wallace took the time to explain to me how the proposed liquor law change in Colorado would hurt small brewers in the state. House Bill 1192 would allow the sale of full-strength beer in grocery stores. Wallace explained why craft brewers are opposing the bill. I will have a more in-depth post on this issue soon. While I understand the precarious state-of-business for smaller brewers and the independent liquor stores that have agreed to carry their product, I am thoroughly for the liberalization of liquor laws; and action I see as the government correcting “sins of the past”.

I think, no matter what changes in the beer distributing legislation in CO that Left Hand will be able to find distribution and continue serving their loyal consumers who will demand their products in grocery stores based on their high-quality product and their extensive community involvement. Check out just a few of the organizations they work with in the Longmont-area community:

Big City Mountaineers

Longmont Humane Society

Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Community Food Share

Longmont Symphony Orchestra

Differing opinions aside, I found the guys very down-to-earth and I hope to run into the lads from Longmont at other Beer Week Events.

The Brew: I tried Left Hand's Twin Sister's IPA and was pleasantly surprised. I should note that I am pretty far from being a hop head. The hop profile on this one was pretty high, but the bitter bite wasn't sustained and the citrus and malt tones balanced the drink fairly well and gave it enough back bone that the drink was more refreshing than painful. See the following post for a description of IPA.

Day 1: Philly Beer Week

2009-03-06T06:42:00.000-08:00

As comic book nerds around the country gather to view the newly released Watchmen, beer nerds coagulate [like spilled refreshments on movie theater floors] to celebrate their mutual love of beer in the most bromantic city in the US: Philadelphia. Yes, as I posted about before, Philly Beer week has finally arrived!I am looking forward to attending at least one of the following events tonight. So, if you're around and you spot a stumbling blond with a tape recorder-- come and say hi and maybe guide me toward a chair ;)

for up to the minute updates on which events I'm covering you can check out my updates on the twitter: bierbabe@gmail.com

Things I'm thinking about doing tonight:

Meet the Brewer: Bill Covaleski of Victory Brewing Company 5:00 PM
Tria Washington Square West
12th and Spruce
Philadelphia

Meet The Brewer: Bob Klinetob of the Lion Brewery 5:00 PM
Cavanaughs-Rittenhouse
1823 Sansom St
Philadelphia

Meet the Brewer: Fred Karms of Hoppin' Frog 7:00 PM
Capone's
224 W. Germantown Pike

Meet the Beer Rep (and his boss): Dan Conway of Left Hand Brewery 8:00 PM
Good Dog Bar & Restaurant
224 S 15th St.
Philadelphia

Meet the Brewer: Curt Cameron of Thomas Hooker 7:00 PM
Teresa's Cafe & Next Door
124-126 N. Wayne Ave.
Wayne, PA

Duvel Green First Official Tapping In Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Eulogy Belgian Tavern
136 Chestnut St
Philadelphia

Meet The Brewer: Larry Bell of Bell's Brewing 9:30 PM
St. Stephen's Green
1701 Green Street
Philadelphia

Gag or Guzzle

2009-03-05T07:53:00.000-08:00

Definitely guzzle-worthy news coming out of Arkansas. The state became the 36th in the union to do away with idiotic (and clearly unconstitutional) blue laws that had previously prevented the sale of liquor on Sundays and the limiting of sales in restaurants on Sundays. Why Sunday? Because that's the day of worship...church meet state.

The Ozarks are well represented in the utterly fascinating history of moonshining in the US.

And the history of moonshining in the country is a thoroughly under-appreciated story of freedom fighters, patriots, and the true American spirit. To understand why prohibition will not ever work in this country I highly recommend the history channel show on Hillbillies.

The Artful Lager

2009-03-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

Ah, Gang Aft Agley: the little sly fox scotch ale with the big 'ole name taken from the lips of a poet whom can burn the palate with his words and singe the soul with imagery.

The poem "To a mouse" references the futile attempt at planning and how our schemes gang aft agley [that is often go awry]. The reference, as JoeSixpack pegged it in his review of the brew, is a buzzkill. But in the words of artist Ralph Steadman “Half of art is accident,”. You can’t have success without failures first, and in many cases, a marksman can hit a bulls eye even when he misses his target. I love that this ale has a name with bite (much like its taste).

I love beers where inspiration is splashed on the label. Not only does it give you something to talk about while you drink, but it also gives a glimpse into the mind of the brewer. Paying tribute to heroes that push us on is part of the motivation for all creative types: we want to make something that we and our friends can use and enjoy. Since most of our heroes are long passed the age of enjoyment (not to mention friendship), attributing a beer to one is a good way to share your appreciation with the collective spirit of fans all around the world.

So what are your favorite “inspired” brews? One of my personal favorites is the Flying Dog Gonzo Imperial Porter brew with the wonderful artwork by the aforementioned Ralph Steadman.

Axe the Tax

2009-03-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

There's a movement in Britain that I wish would make its way across the pond: private businesses blackballing politicians who make decisions that negatively impact their work.
Take for instance, Alistair Darling. Don't let the cutesy last name fool you, this guy 'aint nobody's darling--though I think he's been called every other name in the book.
The grass roots movement 'Axe the Tax' sprang up in opposition to Darling's presumption that he can stick his dirty little hands in the tills of UK pubs.

While the movement is making a good run of it, attracting barrels full of celebrity supporters, the tax has hit the UK pub scene hard. As reported by The Guardian, the tax is at fault for the closing of some 2000 pubs across the country and the loss of over 20,000 jobs (with 75k more jobs at risk).

But back to this hilarious idea of businesses actually retaliating by barring politicians. Can you imagine if US industries did this? Schwarzenegger and skeletor...uh, I mean Maria Shriver would never get a glass of wine again. She'd probably sober up and realize that Arnold doesn't look like the terminator anymore and that it wasn't just because she was she's shit-faced--she really can't understand a word he says.

All these politicians advocating taxes on oil companies' profits couldn't find a gas attendant to fill up their SUVs and would have to resort to using the hot air in their heads to fuel their travels.

Regulators stealing money from citizens and giving it to pet banks and firms to keep them in business will be relegated to using only these obviously inferior institutions and/or hiding their wealth in gold bars under their beds.

Oh what a world that would be.

giving to drink another day...

2009-03-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

While I know we all think laughter, family, friends, and heavy indulgence in our favored beverages can cure all ailments, sadly, there are some conditions that require more extensive treatment.

Everyone reading this has or probably will be touched by cancer at some point in their life. I know my life has been peppered with the two-syllable earth shatterer. My hope is that if it crops up again I will have a group of people to support me, and that is why I am asking for fans of the blog to considering sending a few dollars Al Johnson's way to help his family stay in their home while he fights off metastatic stage 3 testicular cancer. There is every reason to believe that Al can beat this disease. This fund is just to try and make sure that when he gets out of hospital he and his family have a place to return and move on with their lives.

A few dollars can help the Johnson's pay their monthly mortgage. So give up your morning coffee at the 'bucks, or have a cheaper glass of wine with dinner one night and send the saved $5 or so Al.

Keep on rockin' Al. Best wishes to you.

Bier Review: Valentine’s Day Edition

2009-02-21T16:29:00.000-08:00

Ommegange Chocolate Indulgence

Sunset on Valentine’s eve; imagine you are a sexy young zythophiliac sitting at a candlelit table anticipating a thoughtful and sentimental token of affection from your beau.

What would your sophisticated palette crave more than high-end chocolates?

What would raise the temp of your booze-filled cockles faster than the sight of long-stem roses?

For me, it was the site of Ommegang’s Chocolate Indulgence Stout in it’s champagne-style 9.4 oz bottle and the bouquet of chocolate and hops at the popping of the cork.

Okay, so it wasn’t actually a gift from that brutally handsome, beer-loving bloke of my fantasies; to dull the painful awareness that I was sans sweetheart on that day of forced displays of affection I made my way to Total Wine and More in Wilmington, DE (aka Mecca) before spending time with some of my best bros.

Released in October 2007 for the 10^th anniversary of the NY Brewery this limited edition stout pours like motor oil with a mocha colored 4-finger head that takes its time settling into a fine-lace producing layer.

The beer has a light fragrance of cocoa and coffee with a strong floral scent.

This brew has a big complex taste including coffee, toffee, and bitter chocolate with a heavy balance of bitters. The official brewery description says they used Hallertauer Perle hops. They didn’t mention the IBU but I imagine it is pretty high. Luckily, the malt in the drink is almost perfectly balanced to handle the hoppiness.

Along with the stout I also had some Sapporo chocolates which my bros were kind enough to bring back from their visit to the Sapporo factory in Japan. The quality of the chocolate was good, but most surprisingly, it actually tasted like beer! I have no idea how they did that. I wouldn't say I'd seek out that type of treat again, but it sure was cool. Thanks guys!

ommegang image via legal beer

Guzzle-worthy News Flash

2009-02-20T17:30:00.000-08:00

How can the

armed forces attract new blood in an age when recruits are fewer and farther between?

Forget about money for college, debt forgiveness, the appeal of travel, or the awesome uniforms. What recruitment officers should really be advertising is the, apparently, sweet-ass retirement set-up they offer veterans. After only 20 years of faithful service (if you’re over 60 years old) you can putter around the halls in style with your old war buddies, throw 6 quarters into the old beer machine and enjoy a cold and extra fizzy one. Where do I sign up?

Story from Washington City paper by way of Reason Magazine’s Blog Hit and Run

Pic from http://www.jitterbuzz.com/afrhsho.html

Taste the Kid Rockies?

2009-02-19T06:56:00.000-08:00

Ew. That's my first reaction to the news that Kid Rock is planning to brew his own beer. So, Kiddie that's the first consumer image problem you're going to have to overcome. Unless, as is my guess, Mr. Rock is planning to peddle his beer to the same audience he crafts his music for.

Okay, the Kid will have some adult supervision in the form of the team at Michigan Brewing Company which is actually going to develop and sell the brew with input from the rocker.
The real story here isn't that a celebeerty is making a shticky-drink. The real meat in this tale is that the Michigan economic growth authority (MEGA) kind of has the right idea when it comes to stimulating the economy. Rather than asking for hand outs like some people the MEGA is helping government get out of the way of industry by providing a tax credit in the amount of $722,957
What a great idea! Instead of stealing money from successful businesses and giving it to failing poorly managed businesses, just let good business people keep more of the wealth they create. This idea might just be crazy enough to work...

Philly Beer Week!

2009-02-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

It's here! It's here! Philly beer week has finally arrived!
I'm more excited than an alcoholic on St. Patty's day morning!
The wonderful week when all good boy and girl booze-hounds celebrate their love of the bubbling brew at restaurants, pubs, and random gatherings all around the city and burbs of brotherly imbibing.
So if you've been a good zythophile all year you should mark your calendar for some of the fantastic events on tap for this year's festival.

Some of the things I'm looking forward to:

Friday March 6th:

Opening Night in the wintergarden of the city's largest tower. That's classy.

Saturday March 7th:

12:30pm Philly Craft Beer Festival $45

5100 S Broad St
3rd annual Philly Craft Beer Festival featuring over 50 local, national, and international breweries.

2:30pm Ladies Beer Tea $30
The Belgian Cafe at 601 N 21st St
"High" Tea with savories, tea sandwiches & sweets, all paired with great beer.

6pm Founding Fathers Night: Larry Bell Meets Ben Fanklin
Kite and Key at 1836 Callowhill St
We all know how much philly loves to get all gussied up in drag...but this time you can get more than a deep lasting sense of shame! You can get Bells beer special and prizes being the best dressed!

Sunday March 8th:

2pm 2nd Annual Beer Week Chili Cook-Off
The Khyber at 52 S and 2nd St

Not sure how much I love the idea of a hundred drunk people eating loads of chili in close quarters, but hell it's free admission and anyone can enter 215-238-5888.

3pm Vintage Beer Brunch
Memphis Taproom on 2331 E Cumberland St
MT had the really awesome idea to offer 5 pairs of beers representing the old aged vintages alongside the fresh "uncellared" versions so that patrons can taste-test the differences

Monday March 9th

3-5pm Rogue Sampling
The Foodery at 837 N 2nd St
I've had and enjoyed Rogue ales before, really I'm just in it to meet the brewer John Maier. If he's anything like some of the other Rogues out there in Oregon I think we'll be fast friends.

7pm Meet the Brewer: Troegs & Their Dirty Little Firkin
The Belgian Cafe at 601 N 21st St
This just sounds like too much fun to miss! Troegs owner/brewers Chris & John will gravity pour their own firkin right on the firkin bar!

Tuesday, March 10th

4-6pm North Coast Walk of Shame
P.O.P.E. at 1501 E Passyunk Ave.
Tell your best "walk of shame" story and instead of just a painfully embarrassing memory you'll also get commemorative pint glass! It's like group therapy with souvenirs...and laughing.

6pm Meet 12 Percent Imports
Eulogy Belgian Tavern at 136 Chestnut St
Meet the bros with what could be the best job in the world. As they describe it, their professional objective is to "travel the world in search of the finest, hand-crafted ales available. And bring them home. We import beer for selfish reasons, but with the hope of letting others indulge in our spoils." So come on out and taste their new lineup.

or at the same time...

6pm Meet the Brewer: Hildegard Van Ostaden of Urthel
at Monks Cafe
meet the babe behind some wicked awesome brews!----->

Wednesday March 11

7pm Meet Beer Author: Joe Sixpack
Gullifty's Pizza Bar & Grill at 1149 Lancaster Ave. in Rosemont, PA
Meet the famous beer writer and genuinely nice guy (from what I hear). And for Joe's sake check out his website: http://joesixpack.net/

Friday March 13

11am Smoke 'Em If You've Got 'Em $15
Yards Brewing Company 901 N. Delaware Ave.
Get ready for grillerific summer with this feast of smoked beers and food stuffs!

Well, this post is long enough and I'm thirsty- so if you want to find out more about the events of the week get your ass over to http://www.phillybeerweek.org/
and find out for yourself.

Skål!

Gag or Guzzle: Oregon's Budget Solution

2009-02-17T13:19:00.000-08:00

With money-signs where their eyes should be legislators in Oregon have set their sights on brewers in the state. These lawmakers [hereby dubbed Oregonards] bring new meaning to the phrase "sin tax". For one thing, the amount they want to raise taxes is a sin-- 1,900%! Have you ever heard of such an astronomically large leap in taxes (this one 'aint based on inflation kiddies)? Second, it's a sin to raise taxes on production during a glorified depression! And lastly, the reason this could be called a sin tax is because they plan to use the funds to make up for their sins! The Oregonards are so inept at doing their jobs they let the deficit in the state budget bloat up to around $800 million. Rather than take their lumps and the proper amount of blame, they are simply going to steal the profits of businesses in the state.

As noted in this blog post, Oregon *was* a particularly attractive home for breweries thanks to some of the lowest state taxes in the country. If the tax hike is approved however, I'm almost certain that Oregon would have one of the highest tax rates on barrels. If I was a brewer I wouldn't take this shit. I'd put the millions of dollars this that would have gone toward the new tax and get my ass to a different, business friendlier state. Thing is, most lawmakers only think in my-term length. As long as they look good in "their term" and get reelected or get out scot-free they don't care what happens in the future. Hopefully their tax results in many many scots for legislators: very scot-ful. (Ironically, the expression scot-free comes from an old english word related to taxes)

Hopefully this will backfire quickly and result in a hangover that the Oregonards will feel for years.

This idea stinks like skunk and has one hell of a nasty aftertaste. = Gag

Gag or Guzzle: the BEER Act

2009-02-17T11:33:00.000-08:00

In this round of Gag or Guzzle we take a look at a proposal that has been shuffling around Washington, DC for a few years.

Earlier this month Rep. Earl Pomeroy a democrat from North Dakota alongside Iowa Republican Rep. Tom Latham introduced the B.E.E.R. Act which would slice the federal excise tax on barrels in half. Not only would this save countless jobs, prevent the closing of small brewers, and reduce the cost of beer for consumers, it would be one step closer to righting the wrong that is ANY theft of wealth from the productive efforts of individuals.

You can read more about it:
here and here and here

Maybe its just me but freshly cut taxes just make everything taste better. Let's just hope legislators can actually get 'er done this year.
This bill's for you-- definitely a guzzle worthy story.

pub haunt: Brickskeller

2009-01-28T05:39:00.000-08:00

1523 22nd St NW, Washington, DC

It has been a while since I've hung out at what was once a favorite haunt of mine: Brickskeller.
If you're in the least bit a zythophile living in the DC metro area you are aware of this joint. Heralded by Forbes Traveler [from which I have stolen the pic below] as one of the best american beer bars, its cellar is legendary. Almost as well known, however, is skeller's in-stock inconsistency. The menu says one thing and the waiter says another.

Shot-sized Version:

Crowd: 2 frat boys out of 5: At 6pm on Thursday night it was small groups of 22-30 year olds. Douchebaggery of the college variety is relatively low [though there is a noticeable hipster d-bag factor].

Hassle-factor: 2 winks out of 5: If you hunker down at a table, you might get a stare or a brave soul might toss a comment your way, but you can get away with typing on a laptop and drinking alone virtually uninterrupted. However, taking a seat at the bar or in the front room will open up your avenues for one-liners- or more likely, casual conversation about the fantastic beer selection.

Selection: 2.5 lipstick reapplications out of 5: Okay, I will probably get flak for the low-rating seeing as how the BS menu has like a thousand beers. The thing is, they rarely have all the beers they claim to, and the last time I was in, they had 2 out of 10 that I requested. I ended up going on the recommendation of the waiter which, sadly, was a mistake.

Service: 2 of 5 bar wenches: On a relatively slow night, my waiter left me hanging for an unforgiveable amount of time [with the skunky beer he’d recommended no less]. The snobby attitude of the wait-staff is as well-known around town as the almost fraudulent beer list.

Price: 2.5 paychecks out of 5: Sure they charge $6 for a bottle that I can get at Whole Foods for $3—but it’s pretty standard for a brew in a restaurant and given that a lot of the bottles are rarely offered at restaurants it ain't so bad.

And that phrase pretty much sums up Brickskeller: it ain't so bad/it ain't so great.

Triumphant return

2009-01-28T05:01:00.000-08:00

First, I must apologize for the lag between posts. I know all of my two readers have been waiting with breath bated, which means they have either suffocated or are at least suffering from respiratory problems similar to the ones I am just recovering from.

Second, winter is in full-swing here in the District. Limbs of city trees, covered with a thick layer of ice tinkle in the street light and Eskimo poseurs risk their own limbs and life walking and/or driving through slushy streets. Yes the deep freeze is on and much like the economy the social scene around here seems to have frozen to a halt as well. Ergo, I've gone back to haunting cozy old favorites and drinking gallons of thick bog-like bocks, strong ales, etc. Beers you can sink your teeth into are one of the only reasons to forgo moving to miami.

On the bright side, if I do want a cold drink I can save on the cost of ice.

pub review NYC

2009-01-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

11East 36^th Street New y11East 36^th Street New York

The Short and Sweet Version:

Crowd: 3.5 crow's feet out of five: At 4pm on Saturday it was mostly regulars (older gentlemen), couples on a date, 34 years+; dress included classic casual, bizter-chic, and outright professional gear.

Hassle-factor: 1 wink out of 5: pretty much as low as it gets i.e. a woman would have to strut in naked to get a little action- and even then it would only be to throw her out.

Selection: 5 lipstick reapplications out of 5: With over 50 draft beers on tap it doesn't get much better. There are also loads of microbrews in the bottle

Service: 5 of 5 bar wenches: Our waitress was a total doll; she was knowledgeable about the drafts, attentive, but left us to our own devices for most of our entire 2-3 hour session.

Prices: 3 paychecks out of 5: As is typical of any eastern city, the price of a full pint ranged from $6-$9.5 for drafts and higher for some of the larger bottles. For my money $10 flights that let you sample any 4 beers are a great bargain

The Tall and Dry Version:

Background:

Me and two of my closest friends blew into the Ginger Man after a grueling 13 block-schlep on a 30 degree afternoon. Weary and wind-chapped from our journey, I was instantly soothed by the environment of the Ginger Man. The warmth of the place, from the actual temperature to the dark wood it was drenched in, enveloped my psyche like a tight bear hug of a close relative.

We felt like regular old sea dogs descending into the belly of an ancient ship after a long day swabbing the deck. Of course, the only manual labor I had performed that day was to tame the wild beast I call my hair [blessed be a lazy Saturday in NYC]. The first thing I noticed upon entering was the W.C. Fields quote scribbled on the chalk board hanging in the foyer: "A woman drove me to drink I never had the decency to thank her,” indeed. I wonder if he was talking about his mother?

The Scene:

My diligent primping and multiple costume changes seemed lost on the 4pm crowd at Ginger’s; a piebald crew of yuppies-on-vacation and real old-timey new yorkers; you know the real new york men who built the city a hundred years ago with their bare hands and think the only way off the island of Manhattan is by swimming. Those fellows barely lifted a shaggy gray brow at my bare legs. They probably had wives at home who had been putting a hot meal on the table nightly for upwards of 50 years (how can young, albeit, very attractive legs tempt such a king?) Needless to say, this isn’t exactly the type of place where young men go on the prowl or women go to get free drinks. All of the younger blokes in the joint were either with their partners or, from what I could tell, their close buddies.

The Beers:

One of my favorite things about Ginger's apart from the ambiance was the ability to get a sample of four beers on draft for $10. Not only is this a great feature for the adventurous drinker (made possible only by Ginger Man’s extensive draft selection) it makes economic sense. I won’t lie; the most expensive draft beers had a little more gravity during my decision making process. We snuggled up in the sofas by the front of the bar and chose the colors for our palette:

Lagunitas Brown Shugga’ (CA):
Brewery: Lagunitas Brewing Co. Style: Barley Wine | ABV: 9.9%

Dark amber in color with light quickly dissipating head leaving fairly little lace. Low carbonation and nice sweet aroma. While the aroma was sweet like the shugga in its title, drinking this brew was like having someone shove a grapefruit in my mouth and pull it out of my nose [not the biggest fan of hops] Hops presence was like a 400 lb wrestler in the room-- clear from the tip of the tongue and down the back of the palate . The citrus flavors were tempered by hints of caramel covered raisins.

Vanilla Bean Brown Ale (NY):
Brewery: Flying Bison Brewing Co| Style: Brown Ale | ABV: 4.8%
Dark with only hints of amber at the edge, this black beauty at first whiff was actually quite a turn-off- the overwhelming scent of vanilla made me suspect someone in the brewery had an accident with a vat of vanilla extract. The taste, however, was pleasantly balanced; predominately sweet in flavor with a hint of toasted nuts and slight vanilla aftertaste. If the vanilla wasn't so present I might consider it refreshing.

Bourbon County Stout (IL):
Brewery: Goose Island| Style: Imperial Stout | ABV:11%
Greg Hall and the other brewmasters on Goose Island were not kidding around when they wandered into my dreams and stole the recipe for the Bourbon County Stout.
Pouring out like liquefied onyx, even when held up to the nearby window no light made it out (I imagine that, once inside, the rays of light found the brew to be so pleasant that they had no reason to leave). "Blimey!" I found myself shouting as the hearty aroma of oak and caramelized cherries rattled my olfactory. Biting into this masterfully crafted brew I immediately set it aside for the end, realizing that if I kept drinking I’d be done for the evening—the alcohol was clearly present but not unpleasantly so. The flavor was so pleasantly balanced with the clear winner being the malt but a definite and perfectly pitched hops background. I was reminded of the pleasant flavor of slightly overdone sugar cookies. This was by far my favorite beer of the evening. If I hadn’t been so thoroughly soused after a sample I would have ordered a full pint; hell, I will probably order a case of this stuff so, keep your eye out for another review of this one. Bravo Goose Island. Bravo.

That night I also had Stoudt Fat Dog Oatmeal Stout (PA)
Brewery: Stoudts Brewing Co. | Style: Oatmeal Stout | ABV:9%
Drier than I expected while still retaining malty-sweetness as the predominant flavor. Some chocolate and bitterness, but honestly, my taste buds were shot by the Bourbon County Stout. I will have to try Stoudts lineup another day.

Overall, the Ginger Man made me a very happy girl. I could easily see this pub turning into a home away from home if I lived in the city.

Skål!

New Year Welcome Wagon [Let's Fall Off]

2008-12-31T13:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the inaugural post of my blog; a fitting way to bid '08 adieu and get an early start on my '09 resolutions [one of which is to throw my booze-soaked and surprisingly insightful wit into the interwebula]
Eventually, I'll write an "about" page where I will tell you all the honest truth about who I wish I was and my lofty hopes about this blog [save the beer lovers, save the world], but in a conk shell this will serve as the wall onto which I will throw my al dente noodles of wisdom on bars, brews, babes & bros in southeastern PA--you know, the good stuff in life.

For me, brew is tethered to the environment in which it is imbibed, therefore it is useless to describe my opinions on a beer without spicing the review with the back-story and my perspective on the experience.

While, in the words of favorite bottle of mine, it's quite doubtful that you have the taste or sophistication to be able to appreciate a [gal] of this quality and depth, I hope you enjoy and find some use in the pearls I lay out. If you don't feel me or my style feel free to head to the safer territory of arbitrary numerical ratings on mouthfeel.