One A Day

Final Day 242 - Unibroue 17

2009-08-15T15:55:00.001-07:00

Unibroue - Unibroue 17
Chambly, Québec (CANADA)
ABV 10.0% Calories 280*

I visited mom today, it is her birthday and I sat there with her having a nice long conversation. We discussed a variety of topics from Taiwan's typhoon tragedy, to selling my house in Horseheads, NY. I let her know that she is going to be a grandmother again and that it is going to be another grandson! She was very excited and it was just nice to sit there under the sun and breath in all of her words of wisdom. She told me how lucky I am to have such a loving wife who supports me in whatever endeavour I choose. Like usual she suggested that I take initiative and prepare for the future with all my mind, body, and soul. I told her about my career, my life in general, and all my worries but she reassured me that all I needed to do, was to prepare now to ensure the I continue on the right path. She did laugh at me, unnecessarily, for still partaking in such immature games such as drinking a beer every day for 365-days. 'How is this suppose to prepare you to be a father', 'how does this bring you health, happiness, and growth'? I told her that sometime, the happiest part of my day is to relax and drink my beer (especially if it is one I know I will like); but after some contemplation she is right, the only growth I see is around my waist and on the scale. She tells me to stop playing stupid games and to focus on what is important. She tells me that I have become complacent in life and that I should break out of this cycle and try something new - the beer may make you happy and it may be fun, but it doesn't help you in preparing for the future. My mom is right as usual.

I don't know who follows this blog but I have mustered up the courage and will take my mom's advice and quit my quest for One-A-Day. I would still love to drink 365 beers and I will continue this blog until I do so, but it may take more than the original 365 days, it may take twice as long. I may miss my beers but I need to switch gears and try some new things. I want to go back to my mom next year and wow her with all my improvements, accomplishments, and growth. I can't be wallowing in mediocrity anymore. Next year mom, I'll have much more to tell you.

My last official beer in my One-A-Day run; I'm cracking open Unibroue's 17th Anniversary Ale to celebrate my mom's birthday. It is actually a very strong Dark Belgian beer - much too strong for my liking but still a very good beer if you can get your hands on one. I do have more beers in stock but I will take my time to enjoy them, love you mom.

*estimated

Day 241 - Danny's Irish Style Red Ale

2009-08-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

Moylan's Brewery - Danny's Irish Style Red Ale
Novato, CA (USA)
ABV 6.5 Calories 200*

Not nearly as flavorful and interesting as Moylan's IPA but a decent brew. At $1 less, it may be worth the purchase. However, I'd rather go with the Bear Republic and/or Blue Frog beers. Its nice that I'm drinking all of these CA microbrews relatively close to one another and can easily distinguish between the breweries that I like more over the breweries that plain suck. Moylan's has a bunch of beers including a Double IPA that I would love to drink; so they are in limbo until I gather more information.

*estimated

Day 240 - Moylan's IPA

2009-08-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

Moylan's Brewery - Moylan's IPA
Novato, CA (USA)
ABV 6.5 Calories 200*

A solid IPA; wouldn't expect anything less from another California micro-brew. I'm wondering if all the IPA's I enjoy have the same ingredients. The only drawback to this beer is the $4.99 I had to pay for a 22 oz. Much more than one should expect from a local brewery. Regardless, this is a great beer. If you can find it, have one.

*estimated

Day 239 - Fischer Amber

2009-08-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

Brasserie Fischer - Fischer Amber
Schiltigheim, France (FRANCE)
ABV 6.0 Calories 180*

My first beer from France after 239 days. Nothing memorable here; a very bland amber ale - nothing interest to note. The French should stick with fine cuisine (which, I'm not very interested in) and fine wine (also, not very interested in). I guess the only thing I really like out of France is french fries.

*estimated

Day 238 - Fire Rock Pale Ale

2009-08-11T18:08:00.000-07:00

Kona Brewing Co. - Fire Rock Pale Ale
Kona, HI (USA)
ABV 5.8% Calories 188

Another one from Kona; this Fire Rock is solid. Crisp and refreshing like it says on Kona's website. I would love to be sitting on the beach in Kona, with my feet up, watching the waves sipping on this Fire Rock. One of these days...

Day 237 - Longboard Island Lager

2009-08-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

Kona Brewing Co. - Longboard Island Lager
Kona, HI (USA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 100

My first beer from Hawaii. On my spreadsheet I just added a column for state so now I know that I've had beers from 16 states and to no surprise 70-80% of these domestic brews have been from California. I know there must be so many more awesome micro brews out there that aren't even found/sold in the CA market; only traveling to those areas could I get my hands on them. This Island Lager from Kona is decent - fairly plain in taste. The Red Rocket from Bear Republic blows the Kona out of the water. Maybe it is a good thing to live in CA.

Day 236 - Pyramid Haywire Hefeweizen

2009-08-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

Pyramid Brewery - Pyramid Haywire Hefeweizen
Seattle, WA (USA)
ABV 5.2% Calories 145

This is actually the same beer as the Pyramid Hefeweizen from Day 124 - however, since they tricked me with this new label and name, I'm counting it as another beer. Here is what I had to say the first time around (my sentiments hold true):

Decent Hefeweizen; a nice amber-ish color with little head. Simple flavor with nothing too spectacular. Light citrus taste; probably better from tap.

Day 235 - Dos Equis Lager

2009-08-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma Brewery - Dos Equis Amber
Monterrey, Nuevo León (MEXICO)
ABV 5.0% Calories 130

Love the commercials, not so much the beer. Had an interesting day today - went to the San Diego Zoo for the first time (I believe I went to the Wild Animal Park several years ago). The weather was mild, not too hot, but many of the animals were sleeping - i.e the giant pandas. Its also interesting that they sell beer at the zoo, I guess it is pretty normal but it just felt out of place. Nice dinner at Roy's to celebrate my mother-in-laws birthday.

Day 234 - Oregon Honey Beer

2009-08-07T01:49:00.000-07:00

MacTarnahan Brewery - Oregon Honey Beer
Portaland, OR (USA)
ABV 5.0%* Calories 160*

Glad it is Friday - found out we are having a boy today. Excited. Ecstatic. Should celebrate with more than one beer, instead we get pizza at BJ's and my favorite dessert - Pazooooooooki. This Oregon Honey Beer is sub-par. Look forward to drinking this and many more beers when my son turns 21 in 2031; man I will be old by then.

*estimated

Day 233 - Taddy Porter

2009-08-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

Samuel Smith Brewery - Taddy Porter
Tadcaster, Yorkshire (ENGLAND)
ABV 5.0% Calories 180*

I don't get it, this beer is also very highly rated. Maybe it is the epitome of English Porter, but I guess if you don't like English Porter it's like telling someone who's a vegetarian that this is the best steak in the world. I guess in this scenario, I'm the vegetarian.

*estimated

Day 232 - Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout

2009-08-05T18:49:00.000-07:00

North Coast Brewing - Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout
Fort Bragg, CA (USA)
ABV 9.0% Calories 369

Sweet dark beer. Nice over the hump beer, just wish the heat would leave us and I'd be riding home like a nice spring day in Moscow. This is a very dark and strong beer. Very good reviews; people who go out and purchase Imperial Stouts... generally like Imperial Stouts. If you've been following me, I much prefer the citrusy, hoppy, IPA. This North Coast beer is highly rated and I'm sure if you like a nice solid Imperial Stout, this would be on the top of your list. I just think it is far too heavy for a hot summer's night. Should drink this in the winter time.

Day 231 - Ruederich's Red Seal Ale

2009-08-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

North Coast Brewing - Ruederich's Red Seal Ale
Fort Bragg, CA (USA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 177

Man is it hot out here in our Inland Oasis. I got home from the sauna and decided to take the two dogs out to enjoy the sauna. Both dogs were pooped out of their minds when we got home. It's great to live in such a natural and perfect sauna-like environment. I had the Red Seal Ale today; not bad, had some interesting characteristics - I almost thought I had a lychee infused beer after the first few gulps. The beer is fairly hoppy, nice color but overall I enjoyed the Bear Republic and Blue Frog 'Red's' better. Not to knock North Coast because this is a good bear. Have one.

Day 230 - Karlovacko

2009-08-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

Karlovaċka Pivovara - Karlovacko
Karlovac, Croatia (CROATIA)
ABV 5.2% Calories 120*

Reminds me of Heineken. Don't think I could tell the difference in a blind taste test. This is the Croatian Heineken. No more for me.

*estimated

Day 229 - Shock Top Belgian White

2009-08-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

Anheuser-Busch - Shock Top Belgian White
Saint Louis, MO (USA)
ABV 5.2% Calories 168

Had a fun time getting up this morning; long night with the open bar, Heineken's, shots, wine, champagne, the works. This Shock Top was pretty bland, nothing compared to the Hoegaarden. Nice try. Going to go sleep now.

Day 228 - Heineken

2009-08-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

Heineken BV - Heineken
Zoeterwoude, Netherlands (NETHERLANDS)
ABV 5.0% Calories 110

It has taken me 228 days to drink one of the most proliferated beers in the world - Heineken is brewed in close to 40 countries and you'll find it in all parts of the world - about 170 countries to be exact. Since there is so much of this beer everywhere, I did my share and drank a good 6 or 9 of these; it was at a wedding, it was an open bar, what do you expect? Congrats to Jack and Michelle on beginning a beautiful life together. For the time being... no more Heineken for me.

Day 227 - Red Frog Ale

2009-07-31T18:02:00.000-07:00

Blue Frog Grog & Grill - Red Frog Ale
Fairfield, CA (USA)
ABV 6.5% Calories 170*

Another yummy beer from this microbrew up in the Bay Area. Nice and hoppy with plenty of subtle sweetness. Smells good, looks good. I like the frogs on both the Red and the Blonde. Definitely get your hands on one of these beers.

The ant wars have not ended. The floor steamer arrived and I did a bit of cleaning to get rid of any possible sweet trails, but now they are oozing out of the walls along the cupboards and onto our counter tops where even the slightest bread crumbs draw them out. I would gladly kill all the ants in this world if I could.

*estimated

Day 226 - Blonde Frog Ale

2009-07-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

Blue Frog Grog & Grill - Blonde Frog Ale
Fairfield, CA (USA)
ABV 6.75% Calories 180*

When you go to the movies without any expectations and come out like 'wow, that was Oscar worthy' - that is how I feel about this beer. Blue Frog? Who's ever heard of Blue Frog? Sadly, other than Stone Brewery (an hour from where I live) a lot of these magnificent micro-brews are in Northern California. How come I never knew about these breweries during my Cal days. It was always MDG's and Corona's (or whatever was on sale at Safeway). This Blonde Flog Ale is very hoppy and has intense flavors; almost like an IPA (maybe that is why I like it so much) as opposed to a regular blonde. If you can find one of these, you should definitely try one.

*estimated

Day 225 - Sol

2009-07-29T17:10:00.000-07:00

Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma Brewery - Sol
Monterrey, Nuevo León (MEXICO)
ABV 4.5% Calories 143

Its great that I'm keeping all my beer information on a spread sheet, it is so easy to look up all the Mexican beer's I've had so far and even find out when the last time it was that I had a Mexican beer. Sol was my drink of choice when wife and I were vacationing in Puerto Vallarta. I counted 44 drinks in 3 nights (4 days) at our all inclusive resort; I'd say a good 1/3 of them were Sol. Eat breakfast. Drink Sol. Lay at pool. Drink Sol. Sit in Jacuzzi. Drink Sol. Make babies. Drink Sol. Lunch. Sol. Dinner. Sol. It was great. Here in the US, in the comforts of my home, Sol is not so good - just another pissy cerveza; but I will never forget what you did for me in Mexico.

Day 224 - Fireman's Brew Brewnette Beer

2009-07-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

Fireman's Brew - Fireman's Brew Brewnette Beer
Woodland Hills, CA (USA)
ABV 10.8% Calories 200*

Its kind of funny, Fireman's Brew brews 3 different beers - this Brewnette is the only one that shows the alcohol content on the label. I wonder if it is the righteous thing to do, to warn would be drinkers of a 10.8% beer. Actually out of the 3, I like the Redhead Ale the most - but even that is mediocre compared to Bear Republic. Go Bears. The ant war continues.

*estimated

Day 222 - Fireman's Brew Redhead Ale

2009-07-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Fireman's Brew - Fireman's Brew Redhead Ale
Woodland Hills, CA (USA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 160*

Much better than yesterday's blonde; go firefighters. I feel like I'm a firefighter in my kitchen these days - we've been having ant wars for the better part of two weeks. We've used two different sprays (Hot Shots being the better one), baits, mass stompings, and vacuuming, etc. but the ants keep finding a way in. Our vacuum is just one big mass grave. I was actually waiting for the Eureka Steamer I ordered from Amazon to give the kitchen floor a good cleaning but it looks like it won't be here until tomorrow.

Back to the beer. Since this is similar to the Red Rocket and Genesis Ale, I would give this Redhead the bronze. Gold medal goes to the Red Rocket.

*estimated

Day 222 - Fireman's Brew Blonde Beer

2009-07-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

Fireman's Brew - Fireman's Brew Blonde Beer
Woodland Hills, CA (USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 140*

What a great story; this beer was started in 2000 by two fire figthers trying to brew the best beer for their fire fighting bretheren. It has grown to include coffee and other 'on-duty' drinks. The beer itself is 'ok'; not a big fan of blonde but it was smooth and easy to drink. They actually have a 'Brewnette' and 'Redhead' which I'll be trying tomorrow.

*estimated

Day 221 - He'Brew Messiah Bold

2009-07-25T23:24:00.000-07:00

Schmaltz Brewing Company - He'Brew Genesis Ale
Saratoga Springs, NY (USA)
ABV 5.6% Calories 160*

I ate an an Asian Buffet earlier this evening and am still up to the throat in fullness. Almost wanted to skip my beer but decided to pound one down and head to bed; should have chosen something lighter. This Messiah Bold has 'bold' flavors, it says it is a dark brown ale but it almost tastes like Red Rocket Ale from a few days earlier; a little less hoppy but similar tastes. Now I'm super bloated, no wonder I'm gaining the pounds... buffet and beer doesn't spell weight loss.

*estimated

Day 220 - Stiegl Weizen Gold (Hefeweizen)

2009-07-24T23:16:00.000-07:00

Stiegl Brewery - Stiegl Weizen Gold (Hefeweizen)
Salzburg, Austria (AUSTRIA)
ABV 5.0* Calories 150*

220; only 145 more to go :). This is a decent hefe; a fairly solid taste an an interesting smokey after tone. Great for a hot summer evening. I'm excited that it is Friday and that I don't have to do anything all weekend long. Will be nice to relax and have some more beers.

*estimated

Day 219 - Beck's

2009-07-23T23:22:00.000-07:00

Brauerei Beck & Co. - Beck's
Bremen, Germany (GERMANY)
ABV 4.9% Calories 143

Beck's is a very common beer here in the US, one of the more marketed German beers. Don't have anything good to say so I'll talk about the weather. It has been blazing here in SoCal, Corona is hot - doesn't seem to have much airflow in this region during the summer, just a conventional oven baking. And commuting on the motorcycle has been straight up nasty. It's like sitting in a sauna for an hour, I come home and need to change out of my clothes, but life goes on and hopefully I can get my hands on better beers to make me happy.

Day 218 - Red Rocket Ale

2009-07-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

Bear Republic Brewing - Red Rocket Ale
Healdsburg, CA (USA)
ABV 6.8% Calories 180*

Go Bears! Go Bears! This Red Rocket rocks. 3 for 3. Winner winner chicken dinner. Bear Republic rises in stature and blows other breweries behind. I would rather drink the 3 Bear Republic beers I've had so far over the top 3 best beers of any other brewery (outside of Chimay...). Beat it.

*estimated

Day 217 - Hop Rod Rye

2009-07-21T22:21:00.000-07:00

Bear Republic Brewing - Hop Rod Rye
Healdsburg, CA (USA)
ABV 8.0% Calories 200*

Wow, this is a good beer. Why haven't I drank any Bear Republic beers until this week? On the website they call this 'essentially a bold American IPA made with 20% rye malt.' I don't care what they call it, its great. This is 2 for 2 for Bear Republic, I have one more lined up for tomorrow, if BR goes 3 for 3, this brewery will catapult itself into my top 5. I know there are more BR beers at the local BevMo and I will be sure to stock up on others next time I visit.

*estimated

Day 216 - Racer 5 IPA

2009-07-20T23:42:00.001-07:00

Bear Republic Brewing - Racer 5 IPA
Healdsburg, CA (USA)
ABV 7.0% Calories 200*

I wonder if the owner/brewer of Bear Repbulic is a Cal alum; the brewery is north of San Francisco, almost near Mendocino County were all the pot heads are - sounds like a Cal grad to me. This Racer 5 is pretty darn good; one of the better beers I've had in a long time. Very hoppy with strong, bold flavors that tingle your taste buds. I've had beers from almost every part of the world but it all comes back to the West Coast IPA's; something about these new age brews that make me smile and want more. Can't wait until these 365 days are over; so I can just go out and buy the beers that I like. This will definitely be on my list.

*estimated

Day 215 - Żywiec Porter

2009-07-19T22:21:00.000-07:00

Żywiec Brewery - Żywiec
Żywiec, Poland (POLAND)
ABV 9.5% Calories 220*

This is eerily similar to the Baltika Porter I had a few days ago and just as bad. Not sure why anybody would like a beer like this - like drinking concentrated sugar water with alchol mixed in - in a formula gone bad. Polish beer really sucks.

*estimated

Day 214 - Erdinger HefeWeizen Dark

2009-07-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

Erdinger Weissbrau - Erdinger HefeWeizen Dark
Erding, Germany (GERMANY)
ABV 5.6% Calories 170

A German dark hefe; malty, rich, with the 'German' twinge, which I not a big fan of - drinking all these beers I realized that a lot of these older European brewers (German brewers to be exact) brew beers that may have been well liked 300-400 years ago but it just doesn't mesh with my Taiwanese American taste buds. I'm enjoying it only because its Saturday night but wish I had popped opened another Unibroue.

Day 213 - Éphémère

2009-07-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

Unibroue - Éphémère
Chambly, Québec (CANADA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 150*

Chalk up another one for one of my favorite breweries from up north beyond our borders. The Éphémère is a very light sweet beer with apple cider-ish taste - essentially a spiked apple-cider. Beer was easy to drink, bubbly but really not one of my favorites from Unibroue and with so many good beers, I probably wouldn't buy this again unless it was for guests who like sweet beer.

*estimated

Day 212 - Stone 13th Anniversary Ale

2009-07-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Stone Brewing - Stone 13th Anniversary Ale
Escondido, CA (USA)
ABV 9.5% Calories 300*

Strong, super bitter, and a slight sweetness to this beer. This is the 13th Anniversary Ale from Stone; you should get one and try it out. Here is what they have to say on Stone's website:

“Big, red, and a hop monster!”
1. This is the first time we’ve ever released the Imperial/Double Red style.
2. We used more pounds of hops per barrel than any beer we’ve ever made.
3. We used Chinook hops in the brewhouse for bittering and flavor, then dry-hopped this beer with a 50/50 blend of Simcoe and Centennial.
4. As an added bonus, we then dry-hopped it again, just prior to filtering and packaging. That’s right, our popular double dry-hopped process, for the first time ever in one of our bottled beers!

Really this beer is hopped-out. Had two sips and I'm buzzing.

*estimated

Day 211 - Red Nectar Ale

2009-07-15T14:47:00.000-07:00

Nectar Ales - Red Nectar Ale
Paso Robles, CA (USA)
ABV 5.4% Calories 150*

A very nice brew. An American Amber with as much bitterness as most IPA's - this Red Nectar definitely surprised me - I had no expectations since I just picked this right off the shelf at my local Albertsons. A solid beer, this brewery actually only brews 3 beers, one of them is an IPA the other a Hemp Ale - I will hopefully get my hands on their IPA for a taste.

*estimated

Day 210 - Cerveza Caguama

2009-07-14T23:27:00.000-07:00

Cerveceria La Constancia S.A. - Cerveza Caguama
San Salvador, El Salvador (EL SALVADOR)
ABV 3.2% Calories 100*

This sucks pretty bad. El Salvador sucks hard when it comes to beer making.

*estimated

Day 209 - Chang Beer

2009-07-13T23:04:00.000-07:00

ThaiBev - Chang Beer
Bangkok, Thailand (Thailand)
ABV 5.0% Calories 150*

I had quite a good time drinking this and other Thai beers in Phuket many years ago. I remember meeting a couple from Holland and had a night to remember... or forget. What is interesting is that Chang Beer is 5% ABV here in the US but is brewed with rice in Thailand at 6.4%; maybe that is why I had such a good time wandering the streets of Patong. Actually, this is a great 'Asian' beer - in my book it ranks up there with Taiwan Beer as best beers to drink 'till you drop.

*estimated

Day 208 - Mississippi Mud Black and Tan

2009-07-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

Mississippi Brewing - Mississippi Mud Black and Tan
Utica, NY (USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 160*

The first time I had this beer it was at a Claim Jumpers and I thought I was so cool drinking out of a big pint jug. It is hard for me to judge how good this black and tan is since its been so long since I've had a Guinness/Bass black and tan. The beer is a little dark, a little heavy for 5%, and doesn't go far with any bitter tastes or any other flavors for that matter. Maybe it is cool to just drink from a jug but it won't be on my shopping list for a long time. Plus how do you call yourself 'Mississippi' when you're brewed and bottled in Utica, NY? Lame.

*estimated

Day 207 - Cusquena

2009-07-11T23:13:00.000-07:00

Cervesur - Cusquena
Lima, Peru (PERU)
ABV 5.0% Calories 140*

I had a Peruvian beer on Saturday at a friends house watching UFC 100. I don't remember exactly which Peruvian beer I had but I think this is the one. I forgot the bottle and forgot the name. Hopefully I'll figure it and and edit this post if necessary. I group it with all the other Mexican cervazas; the aliens may have came down to Earth and built them a city in the clouds but they definitely did not teach them to brew beer.

*estimated

Day 206 - Anderson Valley Poleeko Gold Pale Ale

2009-07-10T20:58:00.001-07:00

Anderson Valley Brewing Company - Anderson Valley Poleeko Gold Pale Ale
Boonville, CA (USA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 160*

My fifth installment of these fine beers from Boonville, CA. This is a relatively bitter beer; not upon the entry but the aftertaste and it lingers for some time. The official description says the beer has an 'arousing abundance of hops, adds both a floral bouquet and a lively, citrusy finish'; I just taste mainly the hops - the citrus finish is almost non-existent in my books. Still a quality beer but lacks the star power of some of the better pale ale's & IPA's.

*estimated

Day 205 - Baltika 6 Porter

2009-07-09T22:52:00.000-07:00

Baltika Brewery - Baltika 6 Porter
Saint Petersburg, Russia (RUSSIA)
ABV 7.0% Calories 180*

This is the sweetest porter I've ever had - I've just had a few sips and I'm not sure I can go any further. It is almost like a sugary cough syrup. Not sure why I keep subjecting myself to these Baltika beers (this is my 6th); maybe I'm just a little anal and want to have all 1-9 and maybe because the beer is cheap and I need some fillers - its going to be a tough road to 365.

*estimated

Day 204 - Taj Mahal Premium Lager Beer

2009-07-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

United Breweries - Taj Mahal Premium Lager Beer
Bangalore, India (INDIA)
ABV 4.5% Calories 140*

Unless I was in India, sitting at an open air restaurant, dipping naan bread into some spicy authentic curry, overlooking the Taj Mahal at sunset - I'd probably never have this beer again. And if that is the case, I hope to meet this beer again soon.

*estimated

Day 203 - Asahi Super Dry

2009-07-07T23:24:00.001-07:00

Asahi Breweries - Asahi Super Dry
Tokyo, Japan (JAPAN)
ABV 5.0% Calories 130*

The last Asahi beer I had was on Christmas day last year; day 14 of this 365-days of beer. It's been a long road and I'm almost getting sick of beers - sometimes it is just too hot to drink a beer or I'm just too full to want to chuck one back. But I'm almost to my goal - I probably have 5 more pounds to gain and several hundred more dollars to invest. Asahi Super Dry is actually more malty than most Asian beers; probably not as easy to drink lots in one sitting. Its interesting, I've had beer from Taiwan, China, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and even New Zealand and Australian (if you count those as 'Asian') but I'm still missing my Korean beers - I'll have to remind myself to get some next time I'm at H-Mart.

*estimated

Day 202 - Kirin Light

2009-07-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Kirin Brewery - Kirin Light
Tokyo, Japan (JAPAN)
ABV 4.0%* Calories 95

I haven't had an Asian beer in quite some time - today it was perfect; I was shooting some hoops and it was burning up here in the Inland. The Kirin Light was exactly what I needed, a light, thirst quenching beer. No taste, but definitely easy and enjoyable to drink - much better than a Sam Adams Light. I think I could easily drink a few 22's in one evening.

*estimated

Day 201 - Young's Double Chocolate Stout

2009-07-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Wells & Young's - Young's Double Chocolate Stout
Bedford, England (ENGLAND)
ABV 5.2% Calories 160*

One day removed from 4th of July, I take in another Chocolate beer; this one from an English brewery. I'd have to say I'm not usually a big fan of English beers and that is why I chose to drink an American beer on the 4th of July, but I think I made a mistake - I should have drank this one yesterday, it would have been much more festive and it would have brought me more joy. This is a very interesting beer, it tastes like a spiked chocolate milk. I've only had 10-beers from England so far and this is probably my favorite. Good job with the chocolate. Yeah for Young's - Boo for Bayhawk.

*estimated

Day 200 - Bayhawk Chocolate Porter

2009-07-04T13:46:00.000-07:00

Bayhawk Ales - Bayhawk Chocolate Porter
Irvine, CA (USA)
ABV 5.4% Calories 180*

Happy anniversary America; thank goodness for income tax, property tax, and California's increased sales tax. Feels great to be an American sharing our wealth together. To celebrate I'm drinking a local beer from right around the corner - Bayhawk Ales in Irvine, CA. Too bad this beer stinks just as bad as our economy. It tastes like sour chocolate gone bad. Interesting flavor if you like sucking on feet. Try one just for the shits and giggles. Hopefully by this time next year, the economy will be better and Bayhawk will be out of business.

*estimated

Day 199 - Köstritzer Schwarzbier

2009-07-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

Köstritzer Schwarzbierbrauerei - Köstritzer Schwarzbier
Köstritz, Germany (GERMANY)
ABV 4.8% Calories 160*

Another beer von Deutschland - this one a dark beer. It's interesting that all of these German beers have such long histories and also brew under the 'Puritan Law'; but my palette simply yearns for a more modern, American flavor - I love the American micro-brews and they simply beat out all these old timers in my mind. Sorry, my taste buds are just not flattered by these fancy old school beers; maybe it is an acquired taste.

*estimated

Day 198 - Warsteiner Premium Verum

2009-07-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

Warsteiner Brewery - Warsteiner Premium Verum
Warstein, Germany (GERMANY)
ABV 4.8% Calories 160*

Since coming back from my little East Coast trip I've been a little lackadaisical about my postings. I'm not sure if it is the heat or just pure laziness that I haven't been updating on a daily basis - but rest assure, I am drinking my beers. This one out of Germany is a regular ole' pilsner, not my favorite type of beer but it is clean, crisp, and easy to drink. The logo on the bottle stands for "A Queen among the beers", which is a first - never thought any brewery would want themselves to be known as the 'Queen' of beers...

*estimated

Day 197 - Chambly Noire

2009-07-01T23:11:00.001-07:00

Unibroue - Chambly Noire
Chambly, Québec (CANADA)
ABV 6.2% Calories 172

Probably the only thing that I am jealous of Canadians (or rather Quebecans) is their ease of obtaining Unibroue beers. While in Montreal, you can go into a grocery store and pick up a slew of Unibroue's at 1/2 the price; many of them are very rare or probably not even exported to the states. This Noire is a decent beer; flavorful, malty, with tastes of coffee. Not sure if I could sit and have a few of these but one was definitely good.

Day 196 - Blanche de Chambly

2009-06-30T23:02:00.000-07:00

Unibroue - Blanche De Chambly
Chambly, Québec (CANADA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 132

Unibroue's white beer; very nicely done - drank it straight out of the bottle and it had wonderful character - tasted great, bitter, sweet, citrusy, all in one. I'd have to say Unibroue currently ranks as my favorite brewery; every beer is quality in its own regard.

Day 195 - Raison D'etre

2009-06-29T15:20:00.001-07:00

Dogfish Head - Raison D'etre
Milton, DE (USA)
ABV 8.0% Calories 220

My second Dogfish - my first (the 90 Minute IPA) still being one of my favorite; actually I should drink it again to see if I have a different opinion about it since I've gone through 185+ beers then... This Raison D'etre was a bit heavy, strong malty flavors - almost like drinking a coffee. A good beer but not nearly as good as my first Dogfish - I'm going to have to drink a few more from this brewery before I can decide if this micro-brew deserves to be in the upper echelon of breweries.

Day 194 - Landshark Lager

2009-06-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Margaritaville Brewing Co. - Landshark Lager
Jacksonville, FL (USA)
ABV 4.7% Calories 150

Crap beer from Florida. If you want a refreshing cerveza, get one brewed in Mexico.

Day 193 - Boreale Rousse

2009-06-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Brasseurs Du Nord - Boreale Rousse
Blainville, Quebec (CANADA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 160*

This is suppose to be Quebec's first red beer similar to the American Amber; it actually tasted great with my grilled steak. I'm wondering if beer just tastes better when you're on the road and when you are eating steak. I also love the polar bear mascot - there were several advertisements I saw, one of them was the polar bear as 'Venus' in Botticelli's "Birth of Venus". There were many more iterations from this brewery but I just couldn't fit them into my luggage or I would have brought home many many more polar bears. I actually had several more beers at a very lovely wedding in the evening; mostly Boston Lagers.

*estimated

Day 192 - Long Trail IPA

2009-06-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

Long Trail Brewing Co. - Long Trail IPA
Bridewaters Corners, VT (USA)
ABV 5.6% Calories 160*

One of the better IPA's I've had in awhile - and another Vermont native. Never heard of this brewery before and will probably not find any of these in CA but definitely a solid, hoppy, IPA. I see now that Long Trail has a double IPA - will have to find that one next time I'm on the East Coast.

*estimated

Day 191 - Magic Hat #9

2009-06-25T14:51:00.000-07:00

Magic Hat Brewery - Magic Hat #9
Burlington, VT (USA)
ABV 4.6% Calories 146

This was actually my favorite Magic Hat brew after tasting a few at the brewery. It is interesting because it is a pale ale infused with apricot flavor. The apricot flavor isn't overpowering and is actually a better fruit beer than some of the other ones I've had (strawberry/raspberry). The bartender at Magic Hat said that they are expanding and we should start seeing some of their brews out on the West Coast. I wouldn't mind drinking one of these #9's from time to time.

Day 190 - Magic Hat Wacko

2009-06-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

Magic Hat Brewery - Magic Hat Wacko
Burlington, VT (USA)
ABV 4.5% Calories 140*

Our hotel out in Burlington was actually only about a mile away from Magic Hat Brewery. Unfortunately there are no tours on weekdays but you could still walk through the brewery and view the production plant (which was far more impressive than the production plant at Stone Brewery). I wasn't very impressed with the tastings afterwards but I still picked up Wacko and #9 at the local grocery mart. This Wacko is nothing special (I'd much prefered the Southampton Double White); a little bland but definitely easy to drink. Some signs of fruitiness but not enough to give it any distinct flavor. Good summer beer.

*estimated

Day 189 - Southampton Double White

2009-06-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Southampton Publick House - Southampton Double White
Southampton, NY (USA)
ABV 6.7% Calories 180*

First day up in the Northeast and I get this little treat. It is along the lines of Hoegaarden (maybe even better because of its depth), a beautiful citrus witbier that dances in your mouth. My only regret is not seeking out more of these beers from Southampton, it will be hard to find here on the West Coast.

*estimated

Day 188 - Samuel Adams Blackberry Witbier

2009-06-22T18:01:00.001-07:00

Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) - Sam Adams Blackberry Witbier
Boston, MA (USA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 176

I'm disappointed with Sam Adams and their beers, but since they are so saturated in the market place, its one of those beers that you can't get away from even if you tried. Of course, I'll still drink them. Thank goodness this was the last one and I'm on a flight to the East coast in a few hours where I'm hopefully going to visit at least one brewery. I'll drink my beers but will have to catch up on the blogs next week.

Day 187 - Samuel Adams Pale Ale

2009-06-21T21:04:00.001-07:00

Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) - Sam Adams Pale Ale
Boston, MA (USA)
ABV 5.25% Calories 145

I've had a long day. I was a a friend's son's birthday party for most of the afternoon - had some beers before playing in our league basketball game. We started out slow, was down by 10 but came back winning in double digits. This Pale Ale is actually my 5th beer of the day (those empty calories are adding up) - and it isn't much better than any of these past few Sam Adam brews. Happy Father's Day to you all.

Day 186 - Samuel Adams Summer Ale

2009-06-20T19:46:00.001-07:00

Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) - Sam Adams Summer Ale
Boston, MA (USA)
ABV 5.2% Calories 150

I think I came into this 2nd round of Sam Adams with expectations too high. After over 150 beers in between I still held Sam Adams in very high regard (due in part to the Boston Lager) but after yet another mediocre Sam Adams beer I'm beginning to think that my fear of Sam Adams being a 'one-and-done' brewery is becoming reality. Other than Boston Lager all these other beers are C, and at best B beers. I'm starting to lump Sam Adams with the mega-breweries, great advertising, great distribution - but lacking the real uniqueness and qualities of a craft/micro-brewery. Sorry Sam, you've slowly shot yourself off my pedestal.

Day 185 - Samuel Adams Hefeweizen

2009-06-19T22:50:00.001-07:00

Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) - Sam Adams Hefeweizen
Boston, MA (USA)
ABV 5.4% Calories 184

Another Sammy another mediocre beer. The Hefewizen is crisp and clean and goes down smooth; slight sweetness and wheatie-ness to the beer. The beer tasted better near the bottom of the glass. No Boston Lager but definitely better than the Light. In terms of Hefewizen's, there are definitely better ones out there...

Day 184 - Sam Adams Light

2009-06-18T22:35:00.001-07:00

Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) - Sam Adams Light
Boston, MA (USA)
ABV 4.0% Calories 124

Spring has come and gone and now Summer is upon us; not since Winter have I had the pleasure of drinking a Sam Adams beer. I picked up a box of the mix Summer beers and will hopefully enjoy these more than the Winter beers. Although I've had this Sam Adams Light before I'm not sure why anyone would drink this over the Boston Lager. For a few extra calories (36), you have a much more flavorful and satisfying beer - let me take that back, the satisfaction is exponential. If I have a choice, I will never drink the Light over the original Boston Lager. My thoughts on Sam Adams so far: one extraordinary beer, top of the class - muddled with a smorgasbord of mediocre brews. This Sam Adams may even be sub-mediocre. Hopefully the remaining 4 Sam Adams brews will change my mind.

Day 183 - Bitburger Premium Beer

2009-06-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

Bitburger Brauerei - Bitburger Premium Beer
Bitburg, Germany (GERMANY)
ABV 4.8% Calories 146

Today is a big day, I am officially past the 1/2 way mark of my goal... only 182 more beers to go. Instead of counting up, it is time to count down. 183 days - a blink of an eye, a flutter of wings, yet life changing events have happened in such a short span. I am on my way to becoming a father - the due date just about coinciding with how many more beers I have to drink. At the same time I've also started to think more seriously about the direction of my life. Hopefully the more beer I drink the clearer things will get. Things are going to get more personal in the second half, they always do.

About this Bitburger, the first gulp was sweet like honey - then the flavor mellowed and truthfully, its nothing worth writing home about.

Day 182 - Sierra Nevada Porter

2009-06-16T22:22:00.001-07:00

Sierra Nevada Brewing - Sierra Nevada Porter
Chico, CA (USA)
ABV 5.6% Calories 158

I'm not usually a big fan of porters due to its full-body and over-maltiness. Sierra Nevada's Porter is actually quite tasty; roasty malty flavors pop out at you with some bitterness. However if I were to sit down and drink a six-pack, it would definitely be the Pale Ale - two would be one too many for this Porter. Enjoy slowly with some beef jerky.

Day 181 - Dixie Blackened Voodoo Lager

2009-06-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Dixie Brewing - Dixie Blackened Voodoo Lager
New Orleans, LA (USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 155*

Another Dixie brew with a cooler bottle and cooler name. Unfortunately with the same uninspiring flavor. I've never been to New Orleans but if I did, it would be for jazz, tits, and beads. Pass on the beer.

*estimated

Day 180 - Dixie

2009-06-14T21:06:00.001-07:00

Dixie Brewing - Dixie
New Orleans, LA (USA)
ABV 4.6% Calories 140*

In the last week I had two beers from Louisiana and my first beer from Texas. Today, I get a taste of Dixie from the heart of New Orleans. The brewery was actually severely flooded and damaged during Hurricane Katrina but has since made major strides in recovery. I'm wondering if the owners should have just taken the insurance money and retire. The beer really has no flavors. Maybe it is a good accompaniment to some good old spicy creole cuisine. Here in Califorina, we just have a Corona.

*estimated

Day 179 - Pete's Wicked Strawberry Blonde

2009-06-13T23:16:00.000-07:00

Pete's Brewing Co. - Pete's Wicked Strawberry Blonde
San Antonio, TX (USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 150*

Another fruity beer, another strawberry blonde, another beer I'd prefer to keep on the shelves. Maybe I'm just not into raspberry, strawberry, or any kind of 'berry' infused beers. Not much to write about - a beer with some strawberry flavor.

*estimated

Day 178 - Unibroue Terrible

2009-06-12T00:20:00.000-07:00

Unibroue - Unibroue Terrible
Chambly, Québec (CANADA)
ABV 10.5% Calories 250*

I've had 178 beers so far and I'd have to say that Unibroue is one of my top picks for best all around brewery. It still is in the running but this 'Terrible' beer was only mediocre. Don't get me wrong, it is still a solid beer - but maybe I'm just not as keen on these dark Belgians as some of Unibroue's other brews. Terrible, is very dark brown with a substantiate head. Deep malty flavors with a sweet aftertaste. Not better than the Unibroues I've had before - Maudite still sits on top of the list.

*estimated

Day 177 - Abita Purple Haze

2009-06-11T19:29:00.001-07:00

Abita Brewing - Abita Purple Haze
Abita Springs, LA (USA)
ABV 4.2% Calories 140*

Another Abita brew - this one an infused raspberry ale. It is hazy like the name states; no signs of purple, just a cloudy yellowish mix - dense enough that I couldn't see the image on the other side of my glass pint. Taste wise, there is a slight hint of raspberries - not far off from Lost Coast's Raspberry Brown. Other than the hint of Raspberry, the beer is actually pretty bland. Tasting these two beers I wouldn't put Abita up there with some of my favorite micro-brews.

*estimated

Day 176 - Abita Amber Beer

2009-06-10T22:26:00.001-07:00

Abita Brewing - Abita Amber Beer
Abita Springs, LA (USA)
ABV 4.5% Calories 140*

Brewed by a micro-brew 30 miles north of New Orleans, this Amber was slightly malty, mildly sweet, but lacking any significant flavor. Easy to drink and from what I see, probably a pretty cool place to visit. Have a few beers then head on down to Mardi Gras.

*estimated

Day 175 - Baltika 7 Export Lager

2009-06-09T22:06:00.000-07:00

Baltika Brewery - Baltika 7 Export Lager
Saint Petersburg, Russia (RUSSIA)
ABV 5.4% Calories 150*

I'm just glad that this is the last Baltika I have in stock - I know there are a few more out there but at least for the time being, I'll be able to get back to some more tasty beers. Again, this #7 lacked any distinction - easy to drink but after these 365-days, I'll probably never have another Baltika unless I'm in Eastern Europe.

*estimated

Day 174 - Baltika 2 Lager (Svetloye)

2009-06-08T19:16:00.001-07:00

Baltika Brewery - Baltika 2 Lager (Svetloye)
Saint Petersburg, Russia (RUSSIA)
ABV 4.7% Calories 140*

The 4th Baltika on my list - another dud. Although yesterday's Wheat Ale was pass-ably refreshing, this Pale Ale again lacks any distinctive taste or any hoppy goodness. Baltika is the the 2nd largest brewery (Heineken being the largest) and actually numbers its beers from 1-10 ('0' is a non-alcoholic drink) - hopefully I can taste all 10, but inevitably Russia isn't know for its beers so it should stick with vodka, communism, and leggy super models.

*estimated

Day 173 - Baltika 8 Wheat Ale

2009-06-07T21:47:00.001-07:00

Baltika Brewery - Baltika 8 Wheat Ale
Saint Petersburg, Russia (RUSSIA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 145*

The 3rd installment from this Russian brewery and my favorite so far. Nothing special to note; a very light wheat ale, not very citrusy - but smooth and crisp. Easy to drink and refreshing on this warm evening.

*estimated

Day 172 - Rogue MoriMoto Soba Ale

2009-06-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

Rogue Ales Brewery - Rogue MoriMoto Soba Ale
Newport, OR (USA)
ABV 4.8% Calories 145*

I've actually been looking forward to this beer for quite some time; the Rogue beers I've had so far have been above average. This Soba made beer piqued my interest and after a long day of mowing lawns and picking up around the house, I wanted to reward myself with a special beer. It pours a dirty, light amber color - smells a little fruity, and tastes semi-sweet with some hops. Maybe I expected too much but the beer is 'better than most' but really not worth the close to $6 price tag. I would rather pick up a six pack of Sam Adams Boston Lager and have a jolly good time than pay for this again. Definitely worth a try but I probably won't pick this one up again.

*estimated

Day 171 - Smmerfest Lager

2009-06-05T17:40:00.001-07:00

Sierra Nevada Brewing - Summerfest Lager
Chico, CA (USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 158

This just goes to show that a great beer from one brewery doesn't always translate into other great beers. I love Sierra Nevada's Pale Ale, but this seasonal Summerfest Lager leaves much to desire. A light pissy yellow, it doesn't have an distinguishing flavors. It a simple lager, crisp, malty and that is about it.

Day 170 - Saison Dupont

2009-06-04T22:24:00.001-07:00

Brasserie Dupont - Saison Dupont
Tourpes-Leuze, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 6.5% Calories 200*

Saison is the French word for seasons; this type of beer was originally brewed on farmhouses for the farm hand to drink during harvest. It is a bottle conditioned beer, meaning the final fermentation happens in the bottle. This Saison was sweet upon entry but then turned into a sour after taste; not in a pleasant way. The sour bitterness stays on your palette. Maybe the Saison beers are an acquired taste; one that I have not yet acquired. If I was a farmer, I would drink gatorade or if it had to be a beer - one of those light Mexican cervezas.

*estimated

Day 169 - Mighty Arrow Pale Ale

2009-06-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

New Belgium Brewery - Mighty Arrow Pale Ale
Fort Collins, CO (USA)
ABV 6.0% Calories 160*

One of many lesser known New Belgium beers, this Mighty Arrow is one of NB's seasonal brews and is named after a Border/Collie mix that 'ran' the brewery for 12 years. It is actually a fairly light beer - the initial taste was fabulous; citursy, hoppy, and a bit malty. About half way through, it tasted less citrusy/hoppy. I'd order the Fat Tire before this Mighty Arrow - but I am trying to get my hands or NB's Abbey and Trippel; if you know where I can land one of these, let me know.

*estimated

Day 168 - Pacifico Clara

2009-06-02T21:46:00.000-07:00

Grupo Modelo - Pacifico Clara
Mexico City, Mexico (MEXICO)
ABV 4.8% Calories 156

This isn't my picture but I do have the bottle; had dinner down at Miguel's - sub par food, sub par beer. I've had many Pacifico's in the past and although it is easy to drink and great to pound on a hot summer's day - it really is a pretty shitty piss beer. Have one and piss it out.

Day 167 - Lagunitas Maximus IPA

2009-06-01T20:21:00.001-07:00

Lagunitas Brewing - Lagunitas Maximus IPA
Petaluma, CA (USA)
ABV 7.5% Calories 220*

I'd probably prefer this IPA on steroids over yesterday's Alsakan IPA. This Maximus (how can you not like a beer named Maximus)has a bitter entry but is sweet in your mouth and then malty down your hatchet. Doesn't smell very appetizing - like citrus gone bad; but the overall impression is positive. If you sip it, you get a totally different flavor than gulping. Don't know what they put in this Maximus but it seems like they just throw it all in. Try one.

*estimated

Day 166 - Alaskan IPA

2009-05-31T20:48:00.001-07:00

Alaska Brewing - Alaskan IPA
Juneau, AL (USA)
ABV 6.2% Calories 170*

Pours a clean pale ale color with very little head - has a lovely pale ale scent. Semi-bitter, with tastes of some citrus spices (very little). A bit heavy and leaves your mouth malty. Not the best IPA out there but still one of the better beers I've had in the last week or so. The bottle art is pretty interesting; I never knew there were gnarly waves up in Alaska.

*estimated

Day 165 - Dos Equis Amber

2009-05-30T16:45:00.001-07:00

Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma Brewery - Dos Equis Amber
Monterrey, Nuevo León (MEXICO)
ABV 4.8%* Calories 150*

I love the Dos Equis commercials but the beer itself is sub-par. Nothing extraordinary about this beer - it isn't even that drinkable (in large quantities). I prefer the Sapporo or Taiwan beer over this Mexican brew - even the Modelo, Tecate, Corona are much more fun and easy to drink.

*estimated

Day 164 - Kingfisher Premium Lager

2009-05-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

United Breweries - Kingfisher Premium Lager
Bangalore, India (INDIA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 140*

This is actually an India beer but here in the US it is brewed by the Olde Saratoga Brewing Company in Saratoga Springs, NY. There is nothing really special about this beer - it lacks any distinctive taste and is a very plain lager. Easy to drink and refreshing but I won't be rushing out to the store to pick this one up anytime soon.

*estimated

Day 163 - Karl Strauss Woodie Gold

2009-05-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Karl Strauss Brewery - Karl Strauss Woodie Gold
San Diego, CA (USA)
ABV 4.6% Calories 120

Another solid Karl Strauss beer. Not sure why some people don't like this one either but I think its quite tasty. Simple, light, to the point - very much like a pale ale with less hops. A good balanced beer.

Day 162 - Karl Stauss Endless Summer Light

2009-05-27T21:26:00.000-07:00

Karl Strauss Brewery - Karl Strauss Endless Summer Light
San Diego, CA (USA)
ABV 3.3% Calories 110

I've had some Karl Strauss beers on tap before but this is the first time drinking it from a bottle. The Endless Summer Light is fairly refreshing and tasty for a beer that is 3.3% abv. Not as citrusy as Blue Moon but has a similar taste - a lighter version perhaps; with a hoppy finish. I've read some reviews that bash this beer, but I enjoyed it and would order one with wings next time I'm at a Karl Strauss restaurant.

Day 161 - Weihenstephaner Korbinian

2009-05-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

Brauerei Weihenstephan - Weihenstephaner Korbinian
Freising, Germany (GERMAN)
ABV 7.4% Calories 180*

Although another great tasting beer, this doppelbock Korbinian was too heavy - full-bodied and malty. I had half a glass and felt full. Great tasting with hints of chocolate and cherries - sweet aftertaste. I'll have to save the other half of this glass for later.

*estimated

Day 160 - Weihenstephaner Original Premium

2009-05-25T21:27:00.001-07:00

Brauerei Weihenstephan - Weihenstephaner Original Premium
Freising, Germany (GERMAN)
ABV 5.1% Calories 150*

Another Weihenstephaner beer; very pale in color and mellow in taste. Again, you can taste the quality - looks and pours like a Coors but is simply on a different level of beer. Has very light citrus flavors and goes down clean, crisp, and smooth. Weihenstephaner advertises itself as the oldest brewery in the world; I guess they've had 1000+ years to perfect the ingredients that goes into their brews. Not one of my favorites but quality nonetheless.

*estimated

Day 159 - Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dunkel

2009-05-24T22:28:00.001-07:00

Brauerei Weihenstephan - Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dunkel
Freising, Germany (GERMAN)
ABV 5.3% Calories 170*

Never heard of this beer before and was very surprised with its great taste and quality; probably the finest German beer I've had to date. This beer has a nice soft taste to it, a little sour, a little spicy - easy to drink and a top notch hefeweizen.

*estimated

Day 158 - Harbin Lager

2009-05-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

Harbin Brewery - Harbin Lager
Harbin, China (CHINA)
ABV 5.5% Calories 150*

A China brewery, founded by a Russian, owned by an American company - very interesting. The beer itself is a pissy color, light and easy to drink. Wheaty taste giving you a phlegmy after-taste. I'd go with the Sapporo or a Taiwan Beer any day.

*estimated

Day 157 - Sapporo Premium Beer

2009-05-22T17:51:00.001-07:00

Sapporo Breweries - Sapporo Premium Beer
Tokyo, Japan (JAPAN)
ABV 5.0% Calories 140

I haven't had an Asian beer (not including these past two Indian beers) in quite some time. In terms of enjoyment, I really enjoyed drinking this Sapporo; it was easy to drink, refreshing, and didn't have any of those weird tastes (Indian beer) or metallic underlying (English brews). Not a beer for flavor, but great to quench your thirst - good for sake bombs.

Day 156 - Yeti

2009-05-21T22:20:00.000-07:00

Yuksom Breweries - Yeti
Sikkim, India (INDIA)
ABV 7.0% Calories 175*

India is not known for its beer and there is good reason; although at 7%, this Yeti was bland and very little going for it in all regards. Have some curry, drink some Corona.

*estimated

Day 155 - Hen's Tooth

2009-05-20T18:13:00.000-07:00

Morland Brewing - Hen's Tooth
Suffolk, England (ENGLAND)
ABV 6.5% Calories 175*

Bottled in what looks more like a whisky bottle, this Hen's Tooth is yet another one of England's lackluster beers. It is decent and doesn't have the bad metallic taste of other English brews, but it just doesn't compare to even the mediocre craft beers I've had so far... my first and last. Another pass; forever.

*estimated

Day 154 - Firestone Double Barrel Ale

2009-05-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Firestone Walker Brewing - Firestone Double Barrel Ale
Paso Robles, CA(USA)
ABV 5.0% Calories 160

Another winner from Firestone; their one beer that can be found in most Southern California grocery marts. It is a very solid beer; not as flavorful as some other pale ales or IPA's but you can taste the quality ingredients, the malt, and a nice bitter finish - great for someone who doesn't like their beer too hoppy. Smooth, would definitely buy more of these in the future.

Day 153 - Old Thumper

2009-05-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

Shipyard Brewing - Old Thumper
Portland, ME (USA)
ABV 5.9% Calories 180*

Old Thumper is actually an English beer brewed by Ring Wood Brewery (as seen on the bottle); however the story is that the master brewer's apprentice was allowed to brew this beer for an American brewery (Shipyard Brewing Co.) and has been doing so for the last 15+ years. I've never heard of this beer and don't believe I've had a beer from Shipyard yet. I do like Old Thumper, which is a non-traditional English bitter (great, I'm not too fond of those 'traditional' English beers); it is malty with just the right amount of bitterness. All around decent beer.

*estimated

Day 152 - Scaldis

2009-05-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Brasserie Dubuisson - Scaldis
Leuze-Pipaix, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 12.0% Calories 200*

Advertised as the strongest beer produced in Belgium, the Scaldis comes in at a wine like 12%. It has a strong alcoholic scent but the taste itself masks the alcohol quite well. A fairly mellow taste and deceptively light. Today the Lakers beat Houston, we beat our opponents (basketball league), I get to drink this fairly sophisticated beer to end my Belgium week; all would seem perfect except for the fact that I screwed-up my knee during the first 4 minutes of our game...

*estimated

Day 151 - De Koninck

2009-05-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

Brouwerij De Koninck - De Koninck
Antwerp, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 5.0% Calories 178*

Probably the most toned down, 'drinkable' Belgian beer I've had so far; this says it all, "Amber coloured, top-fermented beer with a lively taste and velvet soft aroma".

Day 150 - Gulden Draak

2009-05-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

Brouwerij Van Steenberge - Gulden Draak
Ertvelde, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 10.5% Calories 300*

150 seems like a milestone but I still have 206 more beer to go! Today I drink the 10.5% Gulden Draak - it is deceptively sweet and easy to drink. It tastes almost like a dessert wine (and has the alcohol content to compete) - has several lovely note, pieces of citrus, and some minor spices. One of the few I've had so far this week that I would venture to drink again... and again.

*estimated

Day 149 - Maredsous 10 Triple

2009-05-14T19:22:00.001-07:00

Brouwerij Duvel Moortgat - Maredsous 10 Triple
Breendonk-Puurs, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 10.0% Calories 200*

At 10%abv you'd think there would be an overpowering taste of alcohol but it is not the case; an easy to drink beer (just don't know how many you can knock down) with a fruity sweetness to it. This is a strong, solid, Belgian triple but compared to my favorite Belgium beers, this one doesn't crack the list. I would probably prefer a nice IPA to most of the Belgian brews I've had so far this week.

*estimated

Day 148 - Sloeber Ale

2009-05-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

Brouwerij Roman - Sloeber Ale
Oudenaarde, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 7.5% Calories 175*

Sub-par Belgium brew; not much to be excited about here - will pass on this one in the forever future.

*estimated

Day 147 - Monk's Cafe Flemish Sour Ale

2009-05-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

Brouwerij Van Steenberge - Monk's Cafe Flemish Sour Ale
Ertvelde, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 5.5% Calories 160*

Definitely not what I expected, but I like it. From the initial scent, it almost mimics the English metallic beers that I'm not very fond of; but the taste is very unique. Not bitter at all, it has a refreshing sweetness and a mild sour aftertaste. It almost doesn't taste like a beer and maybe the surprise is why I enjoyed it so much. There is actually a restaurant/brewery in Philly named Monk's Cafe which is famous for the amount of Belgian beers on tap - will have to visit that place next time I'm traveling through the city of brotherly love.

*estimated

Day 146 - Duvel

2009-05-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Brouwerij Duvel Moortgat - Duvel
Breendonk-Puurs, Belgium (BELGIUM)
ABV 8.5% Calories 198

I'm starting a week of very special beers; my first (and hopefully not last) full week of Belgian beers. I've only had a handful of Belgian beers so far but it is clear that they are some of the best beer makers in the world. Today I drink the quintessential Belgian beer; Duvel. Other than Chimay, I always thought this was one of the better Belgian brews - I certainly hope for my sake that I am wrong; I had the Duvel once in Belgium and enjoyed it immensely, however, this time around I wasn't very impressed (maybe my expectations were too high). It is a strong beer at 8.5%, great yeasty, citrusy, flavor that covers the alcoholic content. Crisp, with a frothy head laced with bitterness. I would definitely have a Chimay over this any day and I do hope some of the other Belgian's I have are better than this Duvel.

Day 145 - Flying Horse Royal Lager Beer

2009-05-10T20:00:00.001-07:00

United Breweries - Flying Horse Royal Lager Beer
Bangalore, India (INDIA)
ABV 4.7% Calories 140*

Not a great beer - almost a fusion of Mexican cerveza and Asian lagers; but easy to drink and smooth. Has a little sweet aftertaste, pours a very pale yellow. Probably goes well with spicy Indian curry - I'd probably leave this one on the shelf next time we cross paths.

On a side note, happy Mother's Day to all.

*estimated

Day 144 - Stone Smoked Porter

2009-05-09T12:46:00.001-07:00

Stone Brewing - Stone Smoked Porter
Escondido, CA (USA)
ABV 5.9% Calories 200*

I have to say, I'm not a fan of most Porter's but this Stone Smoked Porter is the exception. It is a full-bodied, heavy beer, (which is the reason why I dislike most Porter's) but with a very unique smoked finish. It is very tasty and the malty heaviness stays with you; I finished the 22oz. in one sitting but can't imagine having more than that - this would go great with a nice juicy steak.

*estimated

Day 143 - Anderson Valley 20th Anniversary Imperial IPA

2009-05-08T13:28:00.001-07:00

Anderson Valley Brewing Company - Anderson Valley 20th Anniversary Imperial IPA
Boonville, CA (USA)
ABV 8.7% Calories 250*

This is an instant favorite; not sure if they make Imperial IPA's on a regular basis but this 20th anniversary has all the hoppy greatness I look for in a beer. It comes very close to the Dogfish; I will have to do a side-by-side taste test one of these days - actually once this is all said and done, I will plan an IPA fest and bring in all my favorite IPA's for a long night of tasting. I'll have to remember to pick up another bottle of this before they disappear from the shelves.

*estimated