BIG Crazy Beer

O'Fallon Pumpkin Ale * * * *

2011-09-24T16:27:00.001-07:00

We had a growler of Schlafly Pumpkin Ale last night. I think I like Schlafly better probably because of the higher alcohol content. They both have a great taste if you like pumpkin beers.

24oz. Busch Light!

2011-07-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

"Great Taste in an easy drinking light beer"

Crescent City Brewhouse

2011-05-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Beertastic Valentines Day *****

2011-02-11T16:37:00.001-08:00

La Chouffe 8% Alc./Vol. Product of Belgium. One of our Favorites. 5 stars out of 5.

This is a nice way to start off Valentines day weekend.

Per the bottle description:
"This Belgian micro brewery crafts La Chouffe with local Ardennes' spring water, top fermenting yeast, Pilsner malts and English Golding & Saaz hop and coriander for spice. Double fermentation produces natural carbonation and a small yeast deposit (lees) on the bottom of the bottle."

Augusta Brewing Co. Taster

2010-10-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Amie and I are trying the tasters. I am having Blonde Ale, hefeweizen, pumpkin, and Oktoberfest, so far so great.

Tin Mill Brewing Company Oktoberfest Beer

2010-10-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

We are in Hermann MO at Trappers restaurant. "A medium bodied beer with a smooth balance of rich malty sweetness and low hop bitterness.". It's good however a little bitter for Amie.

Sam Adams Octoberfest on draft at Growlers!

2010-10-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

I believe I have rated Sam Adams Octoberfest before and it is one of my favorites so I have to say this is a 5 out of 5 for me. They actually have a few Octoberfest beers on tap at Growlers I will have to try. Octoberfest or is it Oktoberfest with the traditional k? Either way it is a great month and great style of beer. Happy Friday and Cheers!

Surprisingly good Samuel Adams Pale Ale

2010-06-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

"that is all I have to say about that"

Chimay Fromage/cheese

2010-06-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

I get to have cheese from one of my favorite Breweries. My awesome
wife got this for me at Straubs in St. louis.

Samuel Adams Boston Lager glasses in action

2010-06-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you Joe and Jessi for the Sam Adams glasses. I am looking
forward to your wedding this Saturday. :-)

Brasseurs de la Grand-Place

2010-05-18T14:04:00.001-07:00

We have arrived in Brussels Belguim today. This is truly a beer
lovers Nirvana. Amie and I had the 4 tester at Brasseurs de la Grand-
Place this is a bar and brewery in the heart of the square "Grand
Place" a tourist area where the streets are closed to traffic and
there are tons of bars and restaurants. We had the 4 tastes of the
beers they brew. They were a blond, a dark, tripel, and a raspberry.
All good except the raspberry. The blond and tripel being my favorite
of course.

Beers at La Virgule Paris France

2010-05-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Started with a Grimbergen Blanche which is the best so far. Then a
Paulaner which is a Munich Geman beer. Now a 1664 which is a really
popular French beer. So popular you can buy it in a can at Mc Donalds
in a can. The Grimbergen was served with a lemon it was a wheat beer
which is our favorite.

Jenlain Ambree * * *

2010-05-13T12:34:00.000-07:00

Good/Average beer at Taverene de Cluny on the left bank of the river
Siene near Notre Dame in Paris Framce. We went in Notre Dame today
will climb the stairs tomorrow and go in the Louvre. Back to the beer
it is 7.5% alc. vol. It is brewed in Jenlain France www.duyck.com

Carlsberg Beer in Paris France * * * *

2010-05-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

We ate at "Castel Cafe" 5 Avenue De Suffren. They had 5 beers on
tap. I have never had Carlsberg before it was a light and tastful
beer. I am drinking wine(beaujolais & bourdeaux) of course, since we
are in Paris but I had to try the beer.

First Honeymoon Beer!

2010-05-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

A Bass and a Bud Light at the Chili's in St. Louis Airport. We are
waiting for our flight.

Trailhead Brewery Riverboat Rasberry * * *

2010-04-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

This is very light and tasty beer I think Schafly Rasberry is better.
"The tartness of raspberries and sweetness of malt are reminiscent of
this style's Belgian predecessors."

Blindfolded taste test.

2010-03-28T21:13:00.001-07:00

I had the idea to do a blind taste test because Amie thought she liked
Hoegaarden better than Duvel. We decided to expand the competition to
increase the complexity. So we did a blind folded taste test of
Hoegarden, Blue Moon, Belguim Sunshine Wheat, Duvel, and Bud Light.
We both participated in the test. We both picked Hoegaarden as our
favorite. Hoegaarden won however we both thought it with Bluemoon.
It was challenging, but one of the most identifiable beers was the bud
light. It has no aroma, it does not have any taste compared to the
other beers. It was funny to watch Amie's facial reaction when
drinking the Bud Light. She looked disgusted. The other beers are so
dynamic comparibly to bud light. Surprisingly the Duvel was second to
last place. Amie and I had a lot of fun with this test. I do have to
note the Hoegaarden glass was not the one depicted. We tried to keep
it consistent with the glasses. We cleaned our pallate with water and
crackers between drinks.

La Fin Du Monde by Unibroue * * * *

2010-03-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

I previously rated this beer as a 4 star beer, and said it required
more investigation. It is very good. It is 9% alcohol beer which is
nice. It is only $6 dollars a large 750ml bottle at Dierbergs. Amie
said it is very lemony. I am going to keep it at 4 stars for now.
Amie says she likes the Maudite the best, and she is the Unibroue
expert in this couple.

Target has Craft and Import Beer!

2010-03-27T12:16:00.001-07:00

I am surprised and impressed.

Maredsous * * * *

2010-03-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

This was very good beer both Amie and I enjoyed before dinner. Not
the best but it gets 4 stars out of 5. One reason I bought this beer
is it is from Belguim, which I will be visiting in May. I paid
$9.49 for the bottle at Dierbergs. The bottle had 1pt/9.4 oz. or
25.4oz. in a bottle. You might think that is alot for a beer but keep
in mind this is a high alcohol content beer 10% alc that has a strong
flavor. So comparitvtely you might spend that much on a bottle of
wine that has a similar alcohol content. Per the bottle: "Maredsous
Triple is a golden-bodied Belgian Triple with festive sparkle, creamy
body, and luscious head. Brewed following Benedictine tradition under
the supervision of Abbaye de Maredsous, this fine ale has been bottle-
refermented and aged for two months."

Pere Noel Hoppy Christmas Ale

2010-03-19T21:01:00.000-07:00

Drinking the last of the Christmas Ale before it is Spring. This was
a good Belgium beer. I enjoyed the hoppiness, it was good with the
Hooters hot wings we had tonight. Product of Brewery De Ranke,
Wevelgem, Belgium. Alc. 7% vol. 11.2 Fl. Oz.

Guiness * * *

2010-03-17T20:04:00.001-07:00

The most popular Irish beer. The only way to drink it is on tap.

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2010-03-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Amie and I stopped by the Blarney Stone on Telegraph Rd. In St.
Louis. It was so packed we left and went to Frankie G's.

Goose Island Honker's Ale * * *

2010-03-12T18:57:00.001-08:00

1904 Beer House at River City Casino - Checking it out tonight.

2010-03-12T16:29:00.001-08:00

Looking forward to going here tonight. http://www.rivercity.com/1904-Beerhouse.aspx

"TO DRINK IS HUMAN, AND BEER IS DIVINE."

1904 Beerhouse offers microbrews and oversized good times. Old-world charm melds with classic American bar fare and Midwestern hospitality to make this Beerhouse your favorite new watering hole. The menu consists of contemporary bar treats and special platters designed to share and pair with complementary ale. A 20ft long communal table located in the center of the room is a perfect starting point for an evening of fun. Choose from 100 beers spanning the world, with 32 beers on tap including River City's own house brew.

Brewery's, Bars, and Beers to check out in Brussels.

2010-03-12T15:55:00.001-08:00

Brewery's, Bars, and Beers to check out in Brussels. Say that fast 5 times :-)
I am searching for good Brewery's, Bars and Beers for Amie and I to check out in Brussels in May for our Honeymoon. Let me know if you have any suggestions. 7 days in Paris and 3 days in Brussels.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beer_in_Belgium
"Among the most famous are "Beer Planet" beer store in Brussels, "Beer Circus" restaurant in Brussels, "Chez Moeder Lambic," and "Delirium Café" in Brussels;"

There are so many beer bars, breweries, stores etc... in Brussels
http://beeradvocate.com/beerfly/list?&c_id=BE&city=Brussels&sort=name&sort=rating

Delirium Café http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%A9lirium_Caf%C3%A9

This Beer Circus has Lachoufe and Chimay ON TAP!
http://www.bier-circus.be/en/beers-on-tap/

Duvel is not to far. 22km or 13.6miles
http://www.duvel.be/pages/Main.aspx?culture=en&pageid=brouwerij/bezoeken/introductie

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duvel_Moortgat_Brewery

http://maps.google.com/maps?daddr=Breendonk,+Puurs,+Belgium&geocode=CTnDAtmezzNlFWTfCgMdXgFCAA&dirflg=&saddr=Brussels+Belguim&f=d&gl=us&sll=51.157816,4.391785&sspn=0.341932,0.883026&ie=UTF8&ll=50.911692,4.354706&spn=0.343753,0.883026&z=10

La Choufe
http://www.achouffe.be/en/rendez-nous-visite/visite/
This is quite a ways from Brussels.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantillon_Brewery
Cantillon Brewery (Brasserie-Brouwerij Cantillon) is a small Belgian traditional family brewery based in Brussels and founded in 1900. Although it has been managed by the Van Roy family after the last Cantillon left it to his son-in-law Jean-Pierre Van Roy, the name Cantillon has been kept.

Brussels Beer Primer
http://beeradvocate.com/beerfly/city/24

Smithwicks * * *

2010-03-10T17:26:00.001-08:00

Guiness's not as popular little brother as I like to refer to it as.
Irish imported Ale. Easier drinking than his older Guiness brother.
I have enjoyed this beer on many occasions. I feel it is lighter and
not as heavy as Guiness. The only way I can drink Guiness and
Smithwicks is Draft.

Sam Adams Seasonal Pilsner * * *

2010-03-06T18:20:00.001-08:00

It is good but its hoppy which I wasnt expecting for a pilsner. Amie
tried it and was surprised with the bitterness and it being hoppy.
Enjoying it with a bloomin onion at Outback.

Stella Artois * * *

2010-02-06T19:26:00.001-08:00

Imported from Belguim "Premium Lager Beer". "Belguims Original Beer
has been brewed by the same noble tradition in Belguim since 1366.".
It reminds me of some of the German style beers that are also a throw
back to the original. It is a good beer I could see myself
potentially at the Stella Artois Brewery with Amie in May for our
Honeymoon. It is a little plain, and common place tasting. It is
good for a lager, which is not my favorite style of beer.

Dude! Where is mine?

2010-02-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

Frankie Friday!

2010-02-05T17:30:00.000-08:00

I have been missing these trips to Frankies. Amie and I are at
Frankie G's on Telegraph in South County. I am drinking Bud Light
Wheat and she is drinking Amber Bock. All of the beers on tap here
are AB products. So not much of a selection, however, it is close to
home and great food. Welcome to the weekend!

Schlafly Quadrupel Ale * * * *

2010-01-30T19:58:00.000-08:00

Yummy! 12% alcohol by volume. Awesome! "Schlafly Quadrupel is, as
its name implies, a serious beer.". So much better than the diet
beer. This is a meal in itself.

Michelob Ultra * * *

2010-01-29T18:02:00.001-08:00

Not as good as Miller Chill but drinkable. "Superior Light Beer" It
is deffinetly light. The carbonation seems harsher and this tastes
more metallic than the Miller Chill. 2.6 grams of carbs, 95 Calories.

Miller Chill * * * *

2010-01-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

This is a 100 calorie beer that is actually tasty and smooth. I have
been tasting some low calorie beers this is the best so far.

Crown Valley Brewing Worktruck Wheat Beer * * *

2009-11-19T18:36:00.001-08:00

This is a local Microbrew Amie and I purchased a mix a six pack at a
small store in St Genevieve. Crown Valley Brewing was established in
2008 in St Genevieve. Woodtruck wheat is a German Style Hefeweizen
that has 5.3% alcohol by volume. It's an ok beer I would drink it
again. It is a 3 out of 5 star beer just average. It would be
difficult for a 5% beer like this to get more than 3 stars.
Considering the distance I would have to drive to get this beer I
would more likely get a Schafly Hefeweizen or a Boulevard Wheat. But
I do enjoy helping out the local brewers.

Gordon Biersch Brewery * * *

2009-11-13T16:59:00.000-08:00

I like this place. It does seem commercial in fact I asked the cab
driver and he said it was yuppy and that is fine by me. I tried all
the beers on tap they let me have tastes. I drank the hefeweizen
which was my favorite. I also drank a Czech Pilsner. The homemade
potatoe chips with blue cheese and bacon rock.

Hofbrauhaus in Las Vegas

2009-11-12T16:08:00.000-08:00

This place is awesome! It is a German style beer house. It is way
off the beaten path (the strip). I am enjoying a wheat beer which is
very refreshing after the long walk here. The waitress's are wearing
the Bavarian Costume (Beer girl/ Pauly Girl).

Samuel Adams Irish Red * * * *

2009-11-10T17:18:00.001-08:00

I always enjoy Irish Red this is good. I have to thank Jade for the
birthday gift. It was a sampler pack of Sam Adams.

Samuel Adams Blackberry Witbier * * *

2009-11-10T16:13:00.001-08:00

3 stars it is tasty the blackberry is just enough to taste and is not
over powering. This might be 4 stars. I drank this before and may of
given it 4 stars. As far as blackberry beers this is the best I have
had.

Unibroue Maudite * * * * *

2009-10-31T17:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! La Maudite "The Damned" very good beer Amie and I
are enjoying.

Summer is over :-(

2009-09-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

Summer is over sadly. Bike MS was a success and has ended. Cycling season is nearing an end for me. Time to start drinking beer! Of course my summer was full of drinking beer. For example the Case of Schlafly Helles Summer Style Lager that is gone. At first I regretted getting the case at Sams Club because it was not like I expected it. It was actually heavier and more of a German style lager than a light summer beer I thought it would be. Towards the end of the case I was sad to see it go.

Please Help John Raise Money for Multiple Sclerosis Society with Bike MS.

2009-08-19T02:58:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, in 2006 & 2008 I participated in the MS Bike Tour. I asked for help from many friends and family who gave very generously so I want to Thank You again for that. The MS Bike Tour is a two day 150 mile bicycle ride, on September 12th and 13^th in Columbia, MO, to raise money and awareness for the fight against Multiple Sclerosis. This fund raiser is very near to my heart as my Mother, Uncle, and a close friend of the family are living with Multiple Sclerosis. Which is why I feel compelled to contribute my time, money, and energy to this cause.

I am again riding with the Kaldi Coffee Team which was the 2nd largest team last year, with 116 members, and they were the Top Fundraising Team, with over $102,000 dollars raised for 2008.

I would appreciate your support in whatever amount you can donate even a $1 will help me towards my fund raising efforts. Click here to visit my donation page where you can donate by credit or debit card. If you would like to donate by check or cash just contact me and we can make arrangements. My fundraising ends on Sept 11^th just prior to the ride. Let me know if you have any questions.

Here is the full address for donations: http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/MOSBikeEvents?px=5358267&pg=personal&fr_id=9605

If you would like more information about the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, how proceeds from the MS Bike Ride are used, or the other ways you can get involved in the fight against MS, please visit http://nationalmssociety.org

Big Sky Brewing Co.

2009-06-27T12:05:00.001-07:00

Hey Tom! They have Big Sky Brewing Co. Beer at Dierbergs! I know you
said you could not find it in MO and only in IL.

Tripel Karmeliet

2009-06-26T21:15:00.001-07:00

Been awhile since I posted. This beer is a 3 or 4 out of 5 not sure
yet. It is good, I love belguim beers. "3 grain" beer, still brewed
after a 17th century recipe from the old Carmelite monastery of
Dendermonde. Blond robust smooth and fruity 3 grain ale, with final
fermentation in the bottle. Brewed with pride and patience after
Carmelite tradition with wheat, oats and barley. 100% natural ale.
www.bestbelgianspecialbeers.be

World beer cup gold medal. Exceptional World Beer Championships.
Gold Award European Beer Star. The Beer Tasting Gold Award.

Schlafly Barleywine-style Ale * * * * *

2009-05-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this from the first sip 5 stars.

Schlafly Growler * * * * *

2009-04-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

We went to the Schlafly Bottleworks yesterday for the Repeal
Prohibition Beer tasting.

We took home a growler of Schlafly Hefeweizen. The growler is one
half gallon or 64 fl. oz. The back of the Growler says that it can be
kept for one week but once open it must be drank in one or two days.
We thought best to drink it the next day so it did not go bad.

Amie thought the beer tasted a little flat, i thought i noticed that
as well, but I enjoyed it just fine. It is obviously probably best to
drink on the same day. I have previously had the raspberry
hefeweisen the same day which was great.

I gave it 5 stars because I enjoy Schlafly and really enjoy drinking
draft beer at home. I know lots of restaurants provide the growlers
and it is not unique to Schlafly but highly suggest trying it.

Schlafly Repeal Prohibition * * * * *

2009-04-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

It Rocks!

TGI Fridays Schlafly Kolsch * * * *

2009-04-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

$3.10 a pint all summer long!

Trailhead Brewing Co. * * * *

2009-04-11T11:24:00.000-07:00

So far so good. Having Lunch at this local microbrew located in St.
Charles MO.

Boulevard Wheat at Gulf Shores in Creve Coure * * * *

2009-04-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

Unibroue Trois Pistoles * * * *

2009-03-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

This is really good beer from Unibroue. 4 out of 5 stars 9% alc.
Bottle fermentation. Per the bottle: "Trois-Pistoles is a remarkably
mellow dark ale. To complement has a plesant aftertaste old port
wine.". The bottle says best before 09-03-11. Here I was thinking we
had to drink this before it got skunky. I guess since it is bottle
fermented it can last a long time which is cool.

Boulevard Brewing Co. Pale Ale * * *

2009-03-29T16:17:00.001-07:00

I have drank almost all the Boulevard Brewing Company's line of beers
they are all very good. I can not say that for all Brewerys. I am
rating this a 3 it could easily be a 4.

Boulevard Brewing Co. Lunar Ale * * *

2009-03-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

At least a 3 almost a 4. This is dark beer it is smooth lighter than
some of the other beers I have had.

Boulevard Brewing Long Strange Tripel * * * * *

2009-03-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

As you can see I bought a new Boulevard Brewing Smokestack series
glass. I thought I would use the glass for my favorite of the
series. This glass had a lot of sediment this is normal and good, it
is a little sweet. This is a bottle Conditioned Ale 9.0% alc. Batch#
T8123

Boulevard Brewing Co. Saison * * * *

2009-03-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yummy! I bought 3 Boulevard smokestack beers. This is the first of
three. Saison Bottle Conditioned Ale.

Boulevard Brewing Co. Bully Poter * * * *

2009-03-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

This is good beer 4 out of 5 stars. Check out my new Boulevard hat and Bully Porter T-shirt. I am not big on Porters but this was good. Pours very dark Amie didn't get a chance to try it I think she would of really enjoyed it. Best By Date 08/13/09. I purchased this and a few other Boulevard beers by doing the Mix a Six Pack at Friar Tucks on St Patrick's day. Big foamy head which you can see in one of my pics. Extremely dark brown looks black in color. It is always deceiving to me I see beers like Guinness and this Porter that are so dark and think it is going to be this thick soupy beer and it is quite the opposite. I liked the hoppiness (which Amie might not like that aspect) and reminded me of coffee too (I think Joe should try this beer). It is always interesting to drink a beer then look at some of the reviews and be like oh I didn't even pick up on that. I am a novice so it is still something new for me to articulate into words what I am tasting.

Beer Advocate gives it an A- with 319 reviews. http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/423/1262

Rate Beer gives it a 92 http://ratebeer.com/beer/boulevard-bully-porter/115/88493/

Per the bottle: "In the tradition of great ales we've added a small
amount of yeast to the beer just before packaging to produce a
secondary fermentation in the bottle. The yeast, which settles
naturally to the bottom of the bottle, encourages further maturation
and contributes to the beer's complex flavor.

See more info at http://blvdbeer.com/bullyporter.htm

Brasserie D'Achouffee La Chouffe * * * * *

2009-03-21T10:58:00.000-07:00

Yes sorry the glass is empty because I drank this last night during the Series Finale of Battlestar Gallatica. Amie might be embarrassed to be a BSG fan since it is a major Sci Fi show, but I love the show and I am very sad to see it end. Amie and I had some friends over to celebrate. The beer was gold in color and had a very big head.

This is a very good beer I have had this in the fridge for awhile salivating and waiting to drink it. It is not a solid 5 but it stands at that now. Beer Advocate gives it a A- so that made me feel more comfortable with my 5 rating. I have drank the beer before and was really surprised. I first had this wonderful beer at Growlers Pub in Sunset Hills with Amie probably early 2008. I got it thinking it would be a small bottle and not noticing the size. I almost always enjoy Belgian beers and this is a good example of one.

I went to La Chouffe's website http://www.achouffe.be/en curious what their glass's or mugs looked like since it says drink it from a "wide mouthed La Chouffe glass." I thought the red nosed gnome was kind of creepy but after visiting their site I think they are just trying to have him be a fun playful character.

Per the back of the Bottle.
"La Chouffee is brewed by the Atisans of the 21st Centuray at la brasserie d'Achouffe deep in the heart of Belgium's Ardennes mountains. The legend of gnomes (chouffes) who once brewed in this mysterious region provides the inspiration for this eccentric bottle conditioned, double fermented ale."

"This Belguim micro brewery crafts La Chouffe with local Ardennes' spring water top fermenting yeast, Pilsner malts and English Golding & Saaz hop and coriander for spice. Double fermentation produces naturual carbonation and a small yest deposti (lees) on the bottom of the bottle."

"Enjoy the golden color, dense white head and sweet-spicy flavor of La Chouffe. Server cool between 50 & 55 F and pour carefully into a wide mouthed La Chouffe glass to enjoy the full flavors and aromas of this ale from Belguims most eccentric brewery."

"Come and visit us at Brasserie D'Achooffee in the Ardennes mountains."

"In 2006 the Choffe gnomes discovered they have baseball-playing family at the Brewery Ommegang farmstead in Cooperstown, NY. Check them out at
http://www.ommegang.com

I am also a fan of the Ommegang Brewery and I am not understanding La Chouffe's goal with this statement on the back of their bottle. Well I did a little research and found out that the brothers who created La Chouffe were bought out by Duvel Moortgat in 2006. Duvel also owns the Ommegang beer line.

From the picture below you can see Brewtus (black and white cat) did not seem to be interested in La Chouffe he was more interested in bothering Calvin.

Obolon Premium * * *

2009-03-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

Produced in the Ukraine it was good it reminded me of a pilsner like
Budweiser.

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale * * * *

2009-03-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ok this is my last Christmas Beer for a long time. Good to end the winter season on such a good note we are only a couple days (Friday the 20th). Then I can begin tasting some spring beers. This was a very tasty and alcohol filled beer. 10% alcohol by volume. I am a sucker for high alcohol beer especially when it has such a complex taste like this beer does. As you can see Brewtus liked the beer too (at least the bottle). I was concerned about this beer being in the fridge since December. Amie and I bought way too much beer from Friar Tucks during Christmas Vacation. Apparently since it is a 'living ale' it can be aged for up to 15 years. I could of drank this next Christmas. Oh well I am trying to clear out the fridge of all the December Beer. It is a tough job. :-)

Per the back of the bottle: "Brewery St. Bernardus was founded in 1946 in Watou, Province of West Flanders in Belgium. These exceptional quality ales are brewed by using only the finest malts, local grown hops, yeast and artesian water pumped from a depth of 500 feet. After the brewing process these traditional ales are matured in tanks for three months before being bottle conditioned. The results is a naturally carbonated 'living ale' which can be aged for up to 15 years and will satisfy the taste of even the most discriminating connoisseurs."

"Bringing heavenly nectar within reach"
"St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is the youngest descendant in the illustrious family of delicious Abbey Ales brewed by brewery St. Bernardus since 1946. This specialty ale of 10% alc./vol. is characterized by its deep dark color with a creamy thick head, and a full almost velvety mouthful with a fruity nose. It's a seasonal ale, brewed annually for the Holiday Season. The long winter nights are perfect moments to savor this ale, with family and friends, and to enjoy its unique complex taste. "

Growlers Pub * * * * *

2009-03-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Amie and I went to Growlers last night for a St. Patricks Eve Dinner and drinks.
I love Growlers food and the 132 beers they have to drink 33 of which are on tap.

Carlow Brewing Curim Gold * * *

2009-03-17T19:19:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patricks Day! I picked some appropriate beers for yesterday
and today. This beer is an import from Ireland. Per the bottle:
"Celtic Wheat Beer, Fruity, aromatic, and refreshingly crisp.". This
was a good beer I would drink it again.

Irish "Holy Trinity"

2009-03-16T16:58:00.000-07:00

From left to right Harp, Guiness, and Smithwicks.

Sam Adams Boston Lager * * * *

2009-03-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

I may have rated this before and may have rated it a 3 out five
stars. However if I am to buy a keg of Sam Adams I think that
deserves a rating of 4 out 5 stars. Mmmm good. At one time I was not
a fan of Sam Adams because it was a bityer hoppy beer. Which I have
grown to like. My friend Joe has always been a fan. It is Joes
birthday this month so we got a keg of Sam Adams for his birthday party.

Samuel Adams Holiday Porter * * *

2009-03-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

Yes I know it is a little late for a "Holiday" beer, but I have a few
left. Spring is not here yet. It is tasty beer I am rating it a 3
out of 5. Per the bottle, "Samuel Adams Holiday Porter is a full-
bodied brew with a big toasty flavor that is both fulfilling and
refreshing. A special blend of malts balance the English hops to
deliver a smooth and delicious winter brew. Samuel Adams Holiday
Porter is a full-flavored porter inspired by the famous drink of
London's Victoria era luggage porters. Brewed with generous portions
of Caramel, Munich and Chocolate malt, this hearty porter finishes
with traditional English Fuggles and East Kent Goldings. Cheers! Jim
Koch"

I want to thank Joe for this fine beverage he shared with me.

Achel Trappist * * * *

2009-03-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

Authentic Trappist - Bruin Bier - Biere Brune. Imported from
Belgium. Now this us a beer! I love Trappist Ales. This is good.
This beer was very foamy when I poured it. It still has a head.
Mmmmmm good.

Tucher Kristall Weizen * *

2009-03-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

Well this is the second "Kristall" type beer it is ok but has a weird
metallic taste. It is very light, no body. I am going to rate it a 2
out of 5 stars. I would not buy it again. This is a I am drunk and I
am not worried about taste kind of beer.

AB/Inbev - Amberbock * * *

2009-03-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

Beers at Frankie G's Friday night. Amberbock is our favorite draft at
Frankie's.

Unibroue La Fin Du Monde * * * *

2009-02-28T15:48:00.000-08:00

This is a triple fermented beer that is very very good I almost think
it is a five star beer. More investigation will be required. :-)

Per the bottle: "The excellence of triple fermentation through a blend
of special yeasts gives this malt beverage LA FIN DU MONDE (The End of
the World) an exquisitely robust flavour of exceptional refinement.

Magic Hat #9 * *

2009-02-27T18:36:00.000-08:00

"Taste alright" per Amie she thought it smelled like Scrubbing Bubbles
I thought that was crazy till I smelled it and I could smell the
similarity. I did not like the first or second sip at all. I will
blame that on possibly not having a clean palate. I am half way
through the glass I even tried washing my mouth out with lemon water.
It is still not good this is a 2 out of 5 stars. So that means I
would drink it if it was free but I will not buy it. Sorry Magic Hat.

Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier * * *

2009-02-27T18:12:00.000-08:00

"The Worlds oldest brewery". It was good but a bit of a mettalic
taste. 3 out 5 stars.

Magic Hat Brewing Co. HI.P.A * * *

2009-02-26T20:02:00.000-08:00

The 3/4 Pint of Indian Pale Ale. It was good, it was extremely hoppy, just as their website says it is HIGHLY HOPPED. I would drink it again. I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars. It was almost too much to handle at first but I am going to contribute that to the fact I was eating Chinese food (crab rangoon) with it. This was one of the beers that Amie bought with the Magic Hat Brewing Company's Spring Fever 12pack during her travels out in North Carolina. I visited their website it is a very unique one very different navigation. http://www.magichat.net/

Per their website: http://www.magichat.net/springfever/beer

hI.P.A.

hI.P.A. is a highly hopped India Pale Ale and the Spring SeasonAle. A medium-bodied beer with a fresh and fruitful nose of vernal vitality. It begins and ends with a big hop bite that is itself forever balanced on the brink by a steady rhythm of malt. Dry-hopped for extra quenching in the face of heat and beat, it's an ideal accompaniment to chilling out, turning inward or sailing onward through the music of the night toward the dawn of the mind. It's the liquid way to say be here now lest you never come this way again.

About our Label Artist:
Stanley Mouse is widely heralded and otherwise internationally acclaimed for his iconographic concert posters for venues like the Fillmore Auditoriums and the Winterland Ballroom as well as his classic album covers for the Grateful Dead and other bands, Stanley Mouse is the man Bill Graham said 'put the face on rock and roll music.' Learn more at Mouse Studios.

Type: Spring India Pale Ale
Yeast: English Ale
Alcohol: 5.8
IBUs: 45
SRM: 7.0

Gravity: 16.5
Malts: Pale
Hops: Columbus
Extra Ingredients: Dry hopped with Columbus

Boulevard Brewing Company Blog * * * * *

2009-02-24T11:22:00.001-08:00

The Boulevard Brewing Company Blog gets 5 stars out of 5. I found out about their blog from using my own blog. Intersting eh? Well I will explain how. I use feedjit Live Traffic Feed as you can see on the lower right of my blog. So I can see where my visitors are coming from and I was surprised to see that someone visited my site from http://beermadehere.blogspot.com/ I checked it out and I was even more surprised that it is the blog of Boulevard Brewing Co and they have a link to my blog! It is a validation as a blogger to be linked somewhere especially a website that is established and directly related to your topic. My girlfriend and I are fans of Boulevard Wheat Beer and a Long Strange Triple. I checked out the blog and their main site. I became even more of a fan when I saw their "Green efforts" it was good to see a company recycling, and has a "green roof". I am a cycling enthusiast and I saw they held a bicycle race "2008 Boulevard Cup". I also read their FAQ http://boulevard.com/faq.htm I like that they are not going to expand outside the Midwest and will focus on covering this area well. They are a private company so no concerns of an Inbev buyout. So yes I liked their blog most importantly because I am linked on it. :-) So any other websites or Brewery's take note. Compliments get you everywhere. Thanks Boulevard Brewing Company!

Anheusuer/Inbev Bud Light * *

2009-02-23T19:30:00.000-08:00

Yes I drink Bud Light. It is like a dirty sin for true craft and micro brewery drinkers. I feel bad giving it press. I have heard some nasty things said about the AB products recently. With all the negativety put aside. I guess you could say I grew up on Bud Light meaning my first legal drink was a Bud Light. I was a Bud Light drinker till I learned about the wonders of microbrews. This bud light was free thanks to some friends that came over this weekend, but I would buy a bud light if I had to if a local brew was not available. Some bars all they have on draft is bud light. So it really makes it 3 stars but I didn't feel right doing that so i gave it a 2 stars. Bud is easy to drink and tasty, however after drinking this beer and then going to drink Schafly or Boulevard you see how void of taste and body it is. I have drank it many many times, for example at the many Cardinal games I have gone to where that is the most prominant beer on tap. It is really a shame what happened to AB with the
Inbev purchase. I really try to support local brewries which sadly AB is not truly any longer. They are a giant brewry owned by foreign company Inbev. Yes there are St. Louis employees. Yes the beer was brewed and bottled in St. Louis. I am torn about this being from St. Louis and I am not trying to sound like a beer snob. I think as you can see from some of the beers I have tried and will continue to try I will try anything. However I believe in supporting good local companies like Schlafly and Boulevard. More thoughts to come on this topic. I am sure you all have some opinions so feel free to share them. Thanks

Unibroue Raftman * * *

2009-02-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

Unibroue Raftman 3 stars, I enjoyed this beer I was torn and almost gave it a 4 out of 5 stars. Amie did not like the bitter after taste and would of given it a 2 or 3 stars. I was not drinking it out of the correct glass but it was a Unibroue Trois Pistoles glass. So I figured it was the beat I could do. I enjoyed the Raftman and look forward to trying it again.

According to the back of the bottle.
"This full bodied beer brewed from delicately smoked whiskey malt, offers a subtle bouquet and a delicious lingering aftertaste. Brewed in memory of those bygone masters of the forests who were always amenable to settling their differences over a beer and a shot of whisky."

Since	1995
Type	Specialty Ale brewed with whisky malt, refermented in the bottle
Alcohol	5.5 % alc./vol.
Color	Coral sheen
Taste	Smoked whisky malt, trace of hops, subtle caramel
Aroma	Smoked whisky malt
Shelf Life	2 years
Serving Suggestions	Smoked fish, meat and mildly spicy meals

Launched in March 1995, Raftman is a beer with a coral sheen that is slightly robust. It contains 5.5 percent alcohol and combines the character of whisky malt with the smooth flavours of choice yeast. It has a subtle and exceptional bouquet that creates a persistent smooth feel. Raftman complements fish, smoked meat and spicy dishes. .

It is brewed to commemorate the legendary courage of the forest workers These hard working men knew when to settle their differences and share their joie de vivre with a beer and a whisky.

The above description was accroding to: http://www.unibroue.com/products/raftman.cfm

If you get a chance to try it let me know what you think.

International Tap House Opened in Chesterfield MO

2009-02-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share some very exciting news. There is a new bar open in St. Louis or more exactly Chesterfield MO. and it is called the International Tap House (iTAP). I have not had the pleasure of visiting it yet but I have heard some positive things from my friend Tom who has been there. As you can tell from the name they have beer from all over the world. As you can see from the image they have 500 beers available 40 beers on tap all from 20 countries in one location.

Some interesting things to note they have the correct glass for each beer to be poured in. So not only do they have a large selection of diverse beer they want you to appreciate the beer the way the brewer wanted it be served.

Regarding food being served at iTAP, this is from the about us section of their website: "While we have 2100 cubic feet of coolers to chill beer to the perfect point we don't have a kitchen, but we do have a food menu. You won't go hungry at iTAP. Thanks to a partnership with our neighboring restaurants, order from us, we will get it from them and you can enjoy it with the perfect pour of beer."

I wanted to share this good news with all the St. Louis folks because I really enjoy and appreciate liquor stores, bars, and restaurants that have good and diverse beer selection (like my favorite Growlers). I have a feeling I am going to love the iTAP. I look forward to telling you about it in the near future.

Check out their website. http://www.internationaltaphouse.com /

They were also featured on KMOV check out this video.

http://www.kmov.com/video/?z=y&nvid=326901&shu=1

Avery Ale to the Chief * * *

2009-01-20T17:01:00.000-08:00

I bought this Avery beer back in October. I have been holding onto this beer till today inauguration day. The bottle says "We the Brewers of Avery Brewing Company, in order to form a more perfect ale, require new leadership that can liberate us from our quagmires in foreign lands embrace environmentally sound energy alternatives to imported oil; heal our ailing health care system; free us from tyrannical debt and resurrect the collapsing dollar. We hereby pledge to provide him with an ample amount of our Presidential Pale Ale to support in the struggle for the aforementioned goals!"

"Hail to the New Cheif!"

This is a good beer and a good day. It is a hoppy and strong beer. I enjoyed it and would drink it again.

Friar Tucks Beverages * * * * *

2009-01-04T13:03:00.001-08:00

Friar Tucks sells wine, cheese, hard liquors, drink mixers, and most importantly lots of beer with some beer & wine brewing supplies. Two locations in St. Louis more locations in IL. We have visited both St. Louis locations are awesome. They both opened in 2008 is my understanding. Crestwood in May and Fenton in November (I will double check these dates). The Crestwood MO location (9053 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63126) is 18,000 square feet it was an old Office Depot which is just down the hill past the Crestwood Westfield Shopping mall on the left. It appears larger or at least wider than the Fenton MO. location (792 Gravois Bluffs Blvd, Fenton, MO 63026) which is the picture above seems to have the same amount of beer available as the Crestwood location. I originally discovered the Crestwood location from word of mouth from a friend. We were driving back from my girlfriends parents on Gravois and ran across a sign for Friar Tucks in Fenton MO. Why is this a 5 out of 5 beer beverage store? They have a large selection possibly the largest I have seen in St. Louis. As you can see in the picture that is a long isle of just beer with more beer behind me to my left and on the opposite side of the isle they have more beer including some basic home brewing supplies like steeping malts, recipe kits, books, bottles, bottling equipment, one step sanitizer etc... In the very back of the store they have a walk in cooler for beer which contains a lot of common beers as well as not so common beers that are cold. They had about 9 different beers in the 5 liter kegs which I have been interested in. We are trying some of the beers out that come in the 5L to see if like any. Friar Tucks is going to be the primary source for our beer. In fact we have already purchased about $160 worth of beer in two trips to the two locations. On our second trip we did the "Mix a Six" pack which they have a really nice mix of beer for example we got a Bitburger beer for my brother in law to have since he had some when he was stationed in Germany. In closing this store is great, the only thing I would change is the prices they are average and I wouldn't say they are discount necessarily but still good. We talked to some of the folks at the Fenton store and they were knowledgeable and very nice. They live up to the motto they posted on their website "Bigger, Better, Beverage store" I am not the only person that thinks highly of Friar Tucks check out this review. http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/18803 a A+ and 4.55 out of 5. If you want to read more about Friar Tucks visit their website. http://www.friartuckonline.com

Growlers Pub Rocks * * * * *

2009-01-02T23:35:00.001-08:00

5 out 5

Brewtus likes Warstiener Oktoberfest * * *

2009-01-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

Yes that is our cat Brewtus.

Unibroue Blanche De Chambly * * * *

2008-12-31T00:30:00.000-08:00

I love unibroue brewing company. Amie initially introduced me to
Unibroue. This is a new Unibroue for me. We bought this in a 4 pack
sampler. It is a White Beer 5% alc./vol. According to the diagram on
the back of the bottle this is the incorrect glass to serve the beer
in. It should be in more of a flute shaped or champagne shaped glass.
Taste good regardless.

Weihenstephaner Kristall Weissbier * *

2008-12-29T20:38:00.000-08:00

2 out of 5 stars. The kristall meaning clear because it is filtered.
It tastes to manufactured. I did not like it but I wouldn't turn it
down if it was free, but I would not buy it again.

Moose Drool Brown Ale * * *

2008-12-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

Brewed by Big Sky Brewing Company Missoula, Montana. Alcohol 5.1% by
volume. My friend Tom provided this beer for me to try. He said it is not available in our area. He actually bought this beer from Chicago IL. From Goose Island restaurant/bar. My review and enjoyment of this beer determined that this is a good beer. It is smooth and lightly carbonated. It does have a strong distinct taste but it does not linger on the tongue. This is in the same category of Newcastle Brown Ale which is also a good beer I enjoy, however there is a stronger taste with the Moose Drool. It holds true to the entertaining name "Moose Drool" and artwork which is a moose standing in a lake with water or Moose Drool dripping from his mouth. I rate this a 3 out of 5 stars, which means it is average beer I would drink again and again. Thank you Tom!

Chimay Ale Blue * * * * *

2008-12-25T19:32:00.001-08:00

Grand Reserve. Chimay Blue comes in 3 bottle sizes the Magnum 150 cl (51 fl.oz.) bottle or the bottle I typically enjoy the 75 cl, (25.4 fl.oz.) or the smallest bottle which I have enjoyed as part of a gift set 3 pack 33 cl (11.2 fl.oz.) they are all 9% alc. vol.

Per the http://chimay.com website "Named Grande Réserve in 75 cl (25.4 fl.oz.) bottles, it is principally distinguished by its character of a strong beer. This is a beer whose fragrance of fresh yeast with a light, flowery rosy touch is especially pleasant.

Its flavor, noticed when tasting it, only accentuates the pleasant sensations perceived in the aroma , while revealing a light but pleasant touch of roasted malt. This top fermented Trappist beer , refermented in the bottle, is not pasteurized."

Bigcrazybeer Golden Ale * *

2008-12-25T16:57:00.000-08:00

This is my first attempt at brewing beer with a Mr. Beer kit.
Amie and I tried a bottle on Dec 5th about 3 weeks ago and it did not
taste good it was not tolerable it was a 0 or a 1 out of 5. It is
now tolerable and has progressed to a 2 out of 5 rating. I am proud
of this beer and very excited to drink it even though it is not as
good as my favorites. I think my excitement and enjoyment of the beer
is due to the fact I made it myself. It is similar to a good meal you
fix it always tastes better to you because you made it. If you enjoy
drinking beer I would highly suggest making your own beer. Start with
an easy to use Mr. Beer kit. I heard someone say "the Mr. Beer kit is
the easy bake oven for beer making". It is not that easy but it is fun.

Weihenstphaner Hefeissbier * * *

2008-12-25T14:37:00.000-08:00

Dunkel. From the "Worlds Oldest Brewery" Dark wheat beer very tasty.
3 out of 5 stars.

Long Strange Tripel * * * *

2008-12-20T21:10:00.000-08:00

By Boulevard Brewing Company. Kansas City MO. Smokestack series this
is 9 % alcohol by volume. This is a great beer I have had many times.

Per the bottle "Lately it occurs to us that if, back in 1989, you
planned on starting a brewery in the back of your capentry shop, you'd
have been wise to seek out someone like Harold "Trip" Hogue. A
collector of ancient Volvos, Trip was well qualified for the make-do
engineering required to coax recalcitrant equipment out of retirement
and into making the first Boulevard beers. Today, he is our longest-
tenured employee. We offer this rich, golden Tripel in grateful
tribute to dedication everywhere. More about Trip at http://smokestack.boulevard.com
"

Also check out one of the Brewer's You tube Video:

Direct Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBJXmG58Fn0

Schlafly Hefeweizen * * * *

2008-12-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

Unfiltered wheat another good beer to have on stock. I really like
the Schafly brewing company. Local here to St. Louis MO.

AB's American Ale * *

2008-12-19T20:35:00.000-08:00

This is Anhueser Busch's attempt at a new Ale probably trying to
compete with microbrews and other popular Ale's. Yes that is 2 out of
5 stars meaning I wouldn't order it, but if it is free I will drink
it. It did have a good odor and refreshing taste and surprisingly
light considering it's color. I did not like the after taste it left
maybe it was my palate at the time. We just arrived to Frankie G's
which is a favorite St. Louis bar and restaurant. I will have to give
Frankie G's a review at another time. I do want to give this
American Ale another try because I do think I would enjoy it more than
other AB products like bud light or budweiser. Plus I want to validate
it is really a 2 out of 5 stars. I will just have to figure out how
to get it without paying for it. Considering the saturation that AB
has in St. Louis it might end up being my only choice on the menu.

Boulevard Wheat * * * *

2008-12-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

Good! 4 out of 5 stars. Amie and I have enjoyed this beer many
times. It is good for casual drinking good beer to have on stock.

Per their website: http://smokestack.boulevard.com/unfilteredwheat.htm

STYLE: American-style Wheat Beer

AVAILABILITY: Year-round; bottles and draught

INGREDIENTS: Pale malt, unmalted soft red winter wheat. Magnum & Simcoe hops.

STARTING GRAVITY: 11.3 degrees Plato

ALCOHOL: 3.5% by weight, 4.4% by volume

BITTERNESS UNITS: 13 IBUs

AVERAGE EBC COLOR: 7.5

Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat Beer is a lively, refreshing ale with a naturally citrusy flavor and distinctive cloudy appearance. This easy-drinking American-style wheat beer has become our most popular offering, and the best-selling craft beer in the Midwest.

SENSORY DESCRIPTION: Subtle flavor profile with hints of wheat and grain works well as a compliment to lighter dishes. Mild sweetness compliments fruity dishes. Flavor hooks: subtle fruit

PAIRINGS: Very light foods including salads, sushi, vegetable dishes or fruity desserts. Grilled chicken and boiled, steamed or broiled seafood, breads and pizza. Feta, Gouda or Gruyere cheeses also pair well

Kasteel Bier * * * *

2008-12-17T20:10:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed this beer. It has a distinct taste. I like that it is 11%
alcohol content. It appeared very thick and dark brown which concerned
me till i enjoyed it. It has good fruity taste. Amie did not like it
in fact it gave her the heebie jebies spelling? She thought it tasted
like Samuel Smiths. Also thought it tastes like a barley wine. The
top of the bottle was corked and sealed like a champagne bottle. Very
good I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Broadway Brewhouse - Nashville TN * * * *

2008-12-15T15:46:00.000-08:00

Amie and I went to Nashville TN. and the Great Smokey Mountain National Park back in October for my birthday. The Broadway Brewhouse and Mojo was a bar we randomly picked from the hundred bars that are on Broadway in Nashville. If you haven't been to Nashville they have a strip of bars and restaurants that is very busy and also historic. A lot of country music stars got their first gigs in those bars. If you like country music and bar hopping this is your heaven. The neon sign I included with this post is the sign outside their bar you can see from the street.

I am writing about the Brewhouse for two reasons. One because they have 72 beers on tap which is incredible to find especially randomly. Two because it was a cool bar we enjoyed. We found out they had 72 beers on tap only after appreciating a couple Blue moon, which was one of the few beers we saw they had at the second bar which is actually the closest bar to the door and seemed most inviting. The couple next to us educated us on the large selection they had available. This is why you should always ask what they have on tap not just assume. It was a site to see to bad the pictures did not take well. It was basically a very long wall full of taps. One of the pictures I included on this post is from our seats looking out from the bar to the street. It was an open air front and we got to see all kinds of action. From the interesting selection of people, to the multiple bachelor and bachelorette parties. To the police interviewing a man that looked like he had been in a fight. They had this what I would believe to be very unique wall painting of a Blue Mood bottle which I included in the post as well.

We enjoyed a lot of good beer and met some new people. The couple that sat to our left the man wore a Jack Daniels hat and t-shirt he was a fan of Jack Daniels, Beer, and Colorado if I recall that is where they were from. The guy to our right was with his 7 other buddies that were part of a Bachelor party. The guy that sat next to me was a up beat but the rest of the party was the most depressing looking bachelor party I have ever seen. Looked more like a wake not a bachelor party. I think part of the reason the guy to my right took them "accidently" to a gay bar before they went to the Brewhouse. The bachelor was pissed because his buddy wasn't doing a very good job organizing the party.

The bar tender was good about having the drinks flowing but that was about it. I enjoy when bar tenders inform us interesting little tidbits like we have 72 beers on tap. I know we are also to blame for not asking or investigating but 72 beers is something to brag about. There was little to no conversation no fun, just serve drinks and take our food order. I like interactive bar tenders, that serve beer and are entertaining. They are a rare breed, a master of their craft and they earn every penny of their tips. Overall it was 4 out of 5 stars for the bar. Not 5 stars because of the bartender.

BOO! Bad AB/InBev! cuts 1,400 jobs

2008-12-15T15:22:00.000-08:00

I say boo! bad! because it is poor timing with Christmas and it will effect 1000 jobs in St. Louis. I read somewhere that this is to make of for the money that it cost to buy AB. However, this is typical with what I have seen when companies buy other companies they downsize because there is a lot of duplication between the two companies. They want to "synergize their synergy's" as the "Bob's" from Office Space would probably say.

http://money.cnn.com/2008/12/08/news/companies/anheuser_job_cuts/index.htm

Sweet Water Blue * * * * *

2008-12-03T20:22:00.000-08:00

By Sweetwater Brewing Company. Per the bottle "Sweetwater Blue is a
unique light bodies Ale enhanced with fresh blueberries and all
natural flavors. This euphoric experience begins with an appealing
blueberry aroma and finishes as a surprisingly thirst-quenching ale."

We feel the description above is accurate. The flavor is light and
slightly sweet. It has a hint of fresh blueberry taste and smell. On
a scale of fruit beer it is a 5 out of 5 stars. So in the fruit beer category we will give it a 5 out of 5 stars. It is not equal to traditional beers like Trappist ales and German or Belgium wheat beers. We feel it warrants the highest rating even though it is in a category of its own. Comparing it to other fruit beers it is far superior. The beer looks and tastes like beer it pours a clear golden color. The golden color is unlike AB's / Inbev Wild Blue's poor attempt at a blueberry beer which is more like a thick blue cough syrup than beer.

The only bad thing is Sweetwater is not available in Illinois,
Missouri, or Kentucky. My girlfriend travels to Tennesee and Georgia
where she replenishes our stock. Sweetwater Brewing Company is based
out of Atlanta Georgia.
"Don't float the mainstream"

Check out their website at : http://www.sweetwaterbrew.com/

Old Leghumper Robust Porter * * * *

2008-12-01T18:28:00.000-08:00

Made by Thirsty Dog Brewing Company. We descibe as good aroma,
moderate bodied. Not as thick as a Guiness. Smooth tasty beer with a
hint of chocolate. It gets an extra rating for it having entertaining
package.

Dunkel Weisse AB's Dark Wheat Ale * * *

2008-11-29T17:32:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed it but I would have to rate it a 3 out 5 stars. I would
drink it again but it would be last on my list of wheat beers.

Local St. Louis Liquor Stores

2008-11-29T10:48:00.000-08:00

Amie and I have been to Kaya's http://kayasimport.com/ they are close and they have more wine and a small beer selection in the back a few small shelves and some in the fridge. They have wine tastings every Friday (never attended) but I have friends that have and enjoy it.

We have also been a few times to the Clayton location (they have 4 locations) they have a nice beer selection in the back. http://www.wineandcheeseplace.com/

http://www.friartuckonline.com this is the store my friend Joe told me about in Crestwood on Watson Rd. 9053 Watson Rd.

http://lukasliquor.com 15921 Manchester Rd. Ellisville MO. my friend Tom told me about this store. He said its the largest Beer selection in St. Louis. that he has seen.
I like their blog. http://lukasstl.blogspot.com/

If you have any favorite stores please share. I would like to visit them and share with others.

Mini kegerators?

2008-11-29T10:38:00.000-08:00

I am very interested in getting one of these mini kegerators. I like this rather than the full kegerator because I don't forsee Amie and I drinking that much beer in 30 days. I think a keg is only good / fresh in one of those for 30 days from what I have read online. Just looking into what is involved with mini. REALLY interested and curios what beer you can get in the 5 Liter keg since that is what they hold. I have seen Heineken kegs with a Krups version of this even saw a TV commercial for it. I am not a big fan although haven't tried it in a few years my tastes have changed greatly. On a positive note we did see a Warsteiner 5L keg at the Grocery store that was interesting to Amie and I.

To bad these are so expensive $237.45.
http://www.kegerator.com/MBD5L-Avanti-Beer-Dispenser-Kegerator-Mini-Pub/MBD5L,default,pd.html

Healthy Bio Beer

2008-11-27T22:59:00.000-08:00

Eight biology students from Rice University have developed a brew that could extend human life, according to a report on discovery.com as of Nov. 10, 2008. They call their invention ‘Bio-Beer.’

"BioBeer, as it’s called, has three genes spliced into special brewer’s yeast that produce resveratrol, the chemical in red wine that is thought to protect against diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and other age-related conditions."

http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/11/10/beer-cancer-health.html

Sweet Water 420 Extra Pale Ale * * *

2008-11-26T21:54:00.001-08:00

Joe and I were apprectiating the 420 beer. We both agree we enjoy the
hoppiness. It's a good beer but we
Have to rate it 3.5. Amie does not like it is to hoppy it is not her
style of beer. I have enjoyed them enough to have three now. It is
described on the bottle as: "A crisp pale ale accentuated by a
stimulating hop character. Handcrafted with selected Malta and
pacific northwest hops. This kind beer compliments and occasions."

New Belgium Trippel * * * *

2008-11-26T18:56:00.000-08:00

Belgian Style Ale I am enjoying right now with Joe. Very tasty 4 out of 5 stars. I keep buying so they must be good. Joe says it's good.