A Beer Thread.

[Fpoonsie]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8120303130_8768d4df55.jpg

Picked it up from the local specialty beer shop a few mins ago. Fucking stoked.

[The Gemini Method]

http://brewminer.com/photos/1351262061_fa47223e8a_m.jpg

Picked it up from the local specialty beer shop a few mins ago. Fucking stoked.

That looks great! I like the vividness of the orange...enjoy, Fp.

[Fpoonsie]

Plan to!

Thanks, Gem.

[Sense]

I saw it a week ago in a Specs in Houston, how is it?

[Spurminator]

Any of you Dallasites tried the Temptress yet?

http://www.dallasnews.com/entertainment/headlines/20121114-bartenders-picks-the-best-craft-beers-in-d-fw.ece

[silverblk mystix]

Apologies if this has been mentioned already, am too lazy to go through the whole thread but I have a question or two;

I read a couple of articles and/or rankings of Hefeweizens and it appears that Franziskaner beer is pretty highly rated and is allegedly available to buy in Texas.

I found it at Magnolia Cafe in Austin and at the Gingerman? bar...and I will check em out but here is my question: Is anyone here aware of any place that would sell it as takeout? A liquor store that would sell cases and/or 6 pks?

Also, has anyone here tried the Franziskaner?


Thanks.

[scott]

Apologies if this has been mentioned already, am too lazy to go through the whole thread but I have a question or two;

I read a couple of articles and/or rankings of Hefeweizens and it appears that Franziskaner beer is pretty highly rated and is allegedly available to buy in Texas.

I found it at Magnolia Cafe in Austin and at the Gingerman? bar...and I will check em out but here is my question: Is anyone here aware of any place that would sell it as takeout? A liquor store that would sell cases and/or 6 pks?

Also, has anyone here tried the Franziskaner?


Thanks.

I've seen it in just about every HEB that has a half-decent import section. If you're in Austin, check out Whole Foods.

[silverblk mystix]

I've seen it in just about every HEB that has a half-decent import section. If you're in Austin, check out Whole Foods.

Well, I looked in about 3 HEB's and no luck, but I had completely forgotten about whole foods.

I hope to find it there! Thanks.

[Fpoonsie]

Was able to get my hands on one of these yesterday. Just finished it about an hour ago. Outstanding.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aasfUbkdkpg/TqCVlYNhI8I/AAAAAAAAQfw/SWy2O38Orps/s1600/Mikkeller+Black+Hole+Cognac.JPG

[baseline bum]

Was down in New Zealand and my favorite beer (by far) there was Emerson's London Porter. Not as good as a lot of stuff you can get in the US, though their mass-produced beers like Speights Gold Medal Ale and Tui absolutely murder our mass produced crap like Budweiser, Miller, Coors.

[CubanMustGo]

Well, I looked in about 3 HEB's and no luck, but I had completely forgotten about whole foods.

I hope to find it there! Thanks.

Spec's has 'em too. Probably a good deal cheaper than Whole Ripoff.

[leemajors]

Was down in New Zealand and my favorite beer (by far) there was Emerson's London Porter. Not as good as a lot of stuff you can get in the US, though their mass-produced beers like Speights Gold Medal Ale and Tui absolutely murder our mass produced crap like Budweiser, Miller, Coors.

Epic outta New Zealand has some pretty good shit too, found some in New Orleans at Stein's - Armageddon IPA is fantastic:

http://www.epicbeer.com/

[baseline bum]

Epic outta New Zealand has some pretty good shit too, found some in New Orleans at Stein's - Armageddon IPA is fantastic:

http://www.epicbeer.com/

I wonder if Epic might only be available in the North Island. I was interested in trying some of their stuff since I remember them doing a collaboration with Dogfish Head a couple of years ago, but I never saw any of their beer on the South Island (spent most of my time in a lot of very small towns out there).

[benefactor]

Tried some Mirror Pond Pale Ale while in Austin recently. Good stuff. Does Deschutes have any other good ones?

[silverblk mystix]

Spec's has 'em too. Probably a good deal cheaper than Whole Ripoff.


I'll check there too. Thanks.

[symple19]

Was down in New Zealand and my favorite beer (by far) there was Emerson's London Porter. Not as good as a lot of stuff you can get in the US, though their mass-produced beers like Speights Gold Medal Ale and Tui absolutely murder our mass produced crap like Budweiser, Miller, Coors.

Not really fair to compare ale to pilser... That being said, I think piss would come out ahead in a taste test against those three US drinks you mentioned

[baseline bum]

Not really fair to compare ale to pilser... That being said, I think piss would come out ahead in a taste test against those three US drinks you mentioned

Tbh not really fair to call Bud, Miller, Coors pilsner either.

[Wild Cobra]

Tried some Mirror Pond Pale Ale while in Austin recently. Good stuff. Does Deschutes have any other good ones?
I usually drink their Inversion IPA, Obsidian Stout, or Black Butte Porter.

[leemajors]

Their Hop Trip is also out right now, good stuff.

[Fpoonsie]

I saw it a week ago in a Specs in Houston, how is it?

Honestly, for a beer, it was just fine. It was Rogue, after all.

For a seasonal pumpkin ale, gotta be honest: coulda used a lot more pumpkin.

[baseline bum]

Tried some Mirror Pond Pale Ale while in Austin recently. Good stuff. Does Deschutes have any other good ones?

Their Black Butte Porter is maybe the best porter I have ever had. Absolute A+ stuff.

[benefactor]

I've never really been into porters but I may give it another go since I liked the pale ale so much. Thanks for the tip.

[leemajors]

I've never really been into porters but I may give it another go since I liked the pale ale so much. Thanks for the tip.

I think they may have a sampler pack if you have a Spec's nearby they may have it.

[Fpoonsie]

http://brewpublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Rogue-Bacon-Maple-Ale-at-Voodoo-Doughnut-Too.jpg

Picked some a' THIS up. Figure I'd save it for breakfast.

[Wild Cobra]

http://brewpublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Rogue-Bacon-Maple-Ale-at-Voodoo-Doughnut-Too.jpg

Picked some a' THIS up. Figure I'd save it for breakfast.
LOL...

Sorry, I don't mix my cereal (grain beer) with other breakfast items.

[Sense]

http://brewpublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Rogue-Bacon-Maple-Ale-at-Voodoo-Doughnut-Too.jpg

Picked some a' THIS up. Figure I'd save it for breakfast.

Expect it to taste exactly like the name..

[Wild Cobra]

Expect it to taste exactly like the name..
I'm actually OK with the maple. You can ferment maple in beer. The bacon... No thanks.

Scott...

Have you ever tried adding real Maple to your wort?

[Viva Las Espuelas]

http://brewpublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Rogue-Bacon-Maple-Ale-at-Voodoo-Doughnut-Too.jpg

Picked some a' THIS up. Figure I'd save it for breakfast.
i have a few friends and have read reviews that give this a big thumbs down.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

I went to Deep Ellum Brewery's 1st year anniversary tour and they released a honey doppelbock for it. Boy was it tasty but not too sweet. This one will sneak up on you. I highly recommend it
52VUACXIzFQ#!

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Any of you Dallasites tried the Temptress yet?

http://www.dallasnews.com/entertainment/headlines/20121114-bartenders-picks-the-best-craft-beers-in-d-fw.ece

nope but i really want to

[Fpoonsie]

i have a few friends and have read reviews that give this a big thumbs down.

Lulz. Yeah, the best I've heard about it so far is "it tastes weird."

[Spurstro]

Had this nice Weizenbock on Saturday... http://www.beer-universe.com/images/uploaded/beer/3884.jpg

[Wild Cobra]

Had this nice Weizenbock on Saturday... http://www.beer-universe.com/images/uploaded/beer/3884.jpg
A WeizenBock sure sound good right now...

[NFO]

i have a few friends and have read reviews that give this a big thumbs down.

lol. I hated it.

I think it is just a novelty to "try" it. But I will never get it again.

[silverblk mystix]

I just found out that Westside Alehouse near my neck of the woods carries Live Oak Hefe and Franziskaner Hefe in a Draft...so I will have to go check it out...

[leemajors]

got the last 4 pack of Narwhal at Sunrise:

http://beerpulse.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Narwhal_Label_Face_12oz.png

[Drachen]

Honestly, for a beer, it was just fine. It was Rogue, after all.

For a seasonal pumpkin ale, gotta be honest: coulda used a lot more pumpkin.

Just tried the Wells Banana Bread Beer and I felt the same way. It was a good beer, and I liked the direction it was going, but could have used a starker banana taste

http://www.theperfectlyhappyman.com/uploads/wells-banana-bread-beer.jpg

[monosylab1k]

LOL...

Sorry, I don't mix my cereal (grain beer) with other breakfast items.

Yeah, I wasn't a fan. It did indeed taste exactly as advertised, ans surprisingly that was copletely and thouroughly underwhelming.

[DUNCANownsKOBE]

All of the beer listed in this thread tastes like water (yes, I've tried them all). If the beer isn't 200+ calories a sip, $100 a bottle, and 10+% alcohol then I'm not interested.

[silverblk mystix]

All of the beer listed in this thread tastes like water (yes, I've tried them all). If the beer isn't 200+ calories a sip, $100 a bottle, and 10+% alcohol then I'm not interested.


Sure would feel a little "heavy" after 4 or 5 of those!

[leemajors]

All of the beer listed in this thread tastes like water (yes, I've tried them all). If the beer isn't 200+ calories a sip, $100 a bottle, and 10+% alcohol then I'm not interested.

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/185tnmdarm21dgif/original.gif

[DUNCANownsKOBE]

Sure would feel a little "heavy" after 4 or 5 of those!

Fuck that. Anyone who says you should only tailgate with light beer is a fuckin pussy, ya know, because drinking heavy beer for 4-5 hours straight is a totally practical and healthy activity. The beer I drink isn't even liquid. It's got more of a pudding-like texture but it's what real fuckin beer is. It actually tastes pretty gross and I feel like shit after about 5 sips, but drinking beer isn't about enjoying it. It's about being able to call people on a message board pussies for drinking less heavy beer than you drink.

[DUNCANownsKOBE]

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/185tnmdarm21dgif/original.gif
:lmao

[leemajors]

:lmao

figured you could put it in the rotation with the lopez gif :lol

[silverblk mystix]

Fuck that. Anyone who says you should only tailgate with light beer is a fuckin pussy, ya know, because drinking heavy beer for 4-5 hours straight is a totally practical and healthy activity. The beer I drink isn't even liquid. It's got more of a pudding-like texture but it's what real fuckin beer is. It actually tastes pretty gross and I feel like shit after about 5 sips, but drinking beer isn't about enjoying it. It's about being able to call people on a message board pussies for drinking less heavy beer than you drink.



Translation: I don't have refined taste buds so I will bash people who like quality beer.


It's ok. You can continue drinking your Bud light. No one is hating on you.

[DUNCANownsKOBE]

Bitch I fly to Belgium to buy my beer then I smuggle it back to America because it's illegal here. You wouldn't know what quality beer is if I had a bottle of it and shattered the bottle over your head.

[leemajors]

Deschutes Abyss should be making its yearly appearance in the next few weeks.

[Wild Cobra]

Deschutes Abyss should be making its yearly appearance in the next few weeks.
The release party for it was 11/15 at the Portland and Bend brewpubs.

link: The Abyss (http://www.deschutesbrewery.com/brew/the-abyss)

[leemajors]

Was speaking for TX Abyss fans, sorry. Takes a few weeks to make it down the chain.

[Wild Cobra]

Was speaking for TX Abyss fans, sorry. Takes a few weeks to make it down the chain.
I'll bet it does. Besides, I was just trying to make you envious, since I live near one of their two brewpubs.

Maybe I'll go out tonight to the Downtown Brew Pub. Even if I don't care for the imperial stout, I love their Obsidian on nitrotap.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Deschutes Abyss should be making its yearly appearance in the next few weeks.

Mmmmmmm. I was lucky to get some last year. Hopefully I can find some this year.

[mrsmaalox]

I have been indulging quite a bit lately in Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro. Smoooothe.

[leemajors]

Happy 4th Freetail! Congrats to Scott!

[Viva Las Espuelas]

DFW peeps definitely need to checkout The Craft & Growler. 99.9% Texas beers and on tap, obviously. They have some bottles. They get you when you buy a glass of beer so the growler is the way to go. A little under 30 beers on tap. Got me some Deep Ellum's Pollenator and Peticolas Wintervention. Tasty stuff

[Fpoonsie]

Rahr tweeting that Bourbon Barrel-Aged Winter Warmer'll be on shelves next week.

[loses. fucking. mind]

[baseline bum]

Specs has bombers of Double Bastard for sale today; amazing stuff.

http://legalbeer.com/images/stone%20double%20bastard.jpg

[Fpoonsie]

Strong stuff.

[baseline bum]

Strong stuff.

Yeah, at 11% ABV I wish they sold it in 4 packs or 6 packs of 12 oz bottles instead.

[Sense]

I think I like Lukcy 13asartd more than double bastard... had one couple weeks ago and wow it was tasty. I can't wait for The Abyss.

[Fpoonsie]

Yeah, at 11% ABV I wish they sold it in 4 packs or 6 packs of 12 oz bottles instead.

Agreed, but I guess it's supposed to be some a' that dick-swingin' ale.

[baseline bum]

I think I like Lukcy 13asartd more than double bastard... had one couple weeks ago and wow it was tasty. I can't wait for The Abyss.

Yeah, Lucky 13asartd gets just enough of that sweetness from the Double Bastard mixed in so that it's better than both Arrogant Oaked and Double Bastard.

[Fpoonsie]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/c67.0.403.403/p403x403/148250_10151287301199288_1725471703_n.jpg

Ft. Worth Central Market opened today w/ THIS display. [loses fucking mind]

[Viva Las Espuelas]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/c67.0.403.403/p403x403/148250_10151287301199288_1725471703_n.jpg

Ft. Worth Central Market opened today w/ THIS display. [loses fucking mind]

is that the bourbon barrell one? i saw the winter warmer 6 pack last week but had to restock on santa fe's java imperial stout.

[Fpoonsie]

is that the bourbon barrell one? i saw the winter warmer 6 pack last week but had to restock on santa fe's java imperial stout.

Yep! Just dropped today.

[Capt Bringdown]

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5298/5576764205_b37c64302b_z.jpg

Picked up one of these kits at my local import shop. I liter can & traditional Barvarian Maß glass. Beer is best when consumed in 1 liter increments.

[Drachen]

Soooooo. does anyone know where to get some Westvleteren XII? scott? Do you have any connections? Be cool to give the "world's best beer" a try.


http://www.lostinthebeeraisle.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/wv00004.jpg

Edit: I realize that this isn't gonna happen. LOL

[leemajors]

Rahr Winter Warmer is on shelves in Austin

[Jekka]

Deschutes Abyss should be making its yearly appearance in the next few weeks.
The only benefit to living in the boonies. No one knows how awesome these beers are and they were still available despite the stores getting 2 cases or less of each one.

http://i.imgur.com/9ppii.jpg (http://imgur.com/9ppii)

[Sense]

The only benefit to living in the boonies. No one knows how awesome these beers are and they were still available despite the stores getting 2 cases or less of each one.

http://i.imgur.com/9ppii.jpg (http://imgur.com/9ppii)

Lucky!! Hopefully I get lucky again this year, not too many people flock to the little liquor store in Nac, but they did kill pumpkintor in a few hours.

[Wild Cobra]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/c67.0.403.403/p403x403/148250_10151287301199288_1725471703_n.jpg

Ft. Worth Central Market opened today w/ THIS display. [loses fucking mind]
Am I seeing that right? $8.99 for a 12 pack?

Must be some pretty poorly brewed beer is it's that cheap.

[CubanMustGo]

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5298/5576764205_b37c64302b_z.jpg

Picked up one of these kits at my local import shop. I liter can & traditional Barvarian Maß glass. Beer is best when consumed in 1 liter increments.

Agree, except I greatly prefer the Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfest which was hard to come by around here this year.

[Fpoonsie]

Am I seeing that right? $8.99 for a 12 pack?

Must be some pretty poorly brewed beer is it's that cheap.

No. It's $8.99/650ml bottle. You can buy a case for $120 or so. It's my favorite beer.

[cantthinkofanything]

No. It's $8.99/650ml bottle. You can buy a case for $120 or so. It's my favorite beer.

I'm going to give this one a try...

[Jekka]

Lucky!! Hopefully I get lucky again this year, not too many people flock to the little liquor store in Nac, but they did kill pumpkintor in a few hours.

When we first moved out to NM in 2010, I found bottles of 2009 Abyss still floating around - I was used to having to get to the store the DAY that shit came out to get any. The first place I went didn't have any more Abyss because they had discounted them and put them on special and sold out, which still took over a week. The Ivan the Terrible is a limited 2400 bottle release, and they only got 12 bottles.

[leemajors]

No. It's $8.99/650ml bottle. You can buy a case for $120 or so. It's my favorite beer.

bomber cases are 12 not 24 fyi

[Fpoonsie]

bomber cases are 12 not 24 fyi

Ok. The guy at CM the other day tried to persuade me into getting a case, and quoted me a hundred and some odd dollar price. That wouldn't make sense, though, if it's only 12 (obviously).

[leemajors]

Ok. The guy at CM the other day tried to persuade me into getting a case, and quoted me a hundred and some odd dollar price. That wouldn't make sense, though, if it's only 12 (obviously).

:lol

[Wild Cobra]

No. It's $8.99/650ml bottle. You can buy a case for $120 or so. It's my favorite beer.
Why would I buy a case of 12 when I can buy 12 individuals for 107.88?

[symple19]

Had this for the first time tonight:
http://www.beeronthewall.com/media/beers/new-belgium-ranger-ipa-lg.gif

yum

[scott]

Soooooo. does anyone know where to get some Westvleteren XII? scott? Do you have any connections? Be cool to give the "world's best beer" a try.


http://www.lostinthebeeraisle.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/wv00004.jpg

Edit: I realize that this isn't gonna happen. LOL

Sorry just saw this.

Unfortunately, I haven't any kind of connection for this. None sent to Texas. Best bet would be to trade for it.

[Spurminator]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pv1fy_nGJs

Should be in stores soon.

[Sense]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pv1fy_nGJs

Should be in stores soon.

I've only had Hop Trapp by them, and it was on tap in Houston.. I don't think I've seen their beers in bottles anywhere, have they not expanded that far yet?

[Viva Las Espuelas]

I tried temptress and was a little disappointed. I'll have to try it again because I normally like those types of beers.

[Spurminator]

I've only had Hop Trapp by them, and it was on tap in Houston.. I don't think I've seen their beers in bottles anywhere, have they not expanded that far yet?

Just started bottling last weekend.

[Fpoonsie]

Pickin' some of this up tomorrow. The DFH and MBC collabo'.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BB7SKW7KP68/UBnYVVHHLgI/AAAAAAAAq8g/MAJZ_ed1gAg/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800

[leemajors]

Pickin' some of this up tomorrow. The DFH and MBC collabo'.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BB7SKW7KP68/UBnYVVHHLgI/AAAAAAAAq8g/MAJZ_ed1gAg/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800

Aye, there was a keg of it at the Draught House anniversary.

[Fpoonsie]

Aye, there was a keg of it at the Draught House anniversary.

Thoughts? It was on a list of the top 25 of 2012 (along w/ Rogue's Maple Ale and Mekkeller's).

[leemajors]

Thoughts? It was on a list of the top 25 of 2012 (along w/ Rogue's Maple Ale and Mekkeller's).

it was ok, I am generally not a huge fan of fruit adjuncts

[Fpoonsie]

Hmmm...I've liked some of MBC's other stuff, mostly for its lightness, considering I'm so prone to go after the stouts and other dark assortments.

[mrsmaalox]

Hmmm...I've liked some of MBC's other stuff, mostly for its lightness, considering I'm so prone to go after the stouts and other dark assortments.

If that's what you like I still recommend Left Hand's Milk Stout Nitro; super smooth and creamy, it was also on the top 25. I totally love it.

[leemajors]

I like Maui, their Imperial Coconut is solid.

[Sense]

I like Maui, their Imperial Coconut is solid.

That's probably the only one I've liked so far by them... not impressed with their ipa at all.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/c67.0.403.403/p403x403/148250_10151287301199288_1725471703_n.jpg

Ft. Worth Central Market opened today w/ THIS display. [loses fucking mind]

i found these at the Spec's in Temple today for a dollar cheaper on my way down to the Motherland. good stuff but I went to Petitcola's Wintervention right after and it's way way smoother. smoothest 10%, i think, i'll ever taste. it's pretty much heaven in a glass. can't wait to go to their 1st anniversary tour next week and try that vanilla bean Velvet Hammer cask. their regular Velvet Hammer is fantastic by itself, so i hope it's nothing too overkill. also, try their gabf gold medal winner, Royal Scandal.

[Sense]

can't wait for bigfoot!!!

[I. Hustle]

Temple? Next time you pass through stop bye and say hi.

[leemajors]

Agloco, finally had a Parabola last night. Absolutely delicious, nice little hints of vanilla in with the bourbon barrel.

[Fpoonsie]

Aye, there was a keg of it at the Draught House anniversary.

Liquid Breadfruit was phenomenal. I was only able to get 3 cans of it, the demand was so high, but...wow.

[Agloco]

Agloco, finally had a Parabola last night. Absolutely delicious, nice little hints of vanilla in with the bourbon barrel.

:tu

Yeah, its really good stuff. Im gonna have to try their other offerings as well. I haven't had time of late, but I'll head over to Scottsdale soon to scope out some fresh products.

[Wild Cobra]

A Parabola?

Does that mean that no matter where or when you drink it, it hits the spot?

[baseline bum]

:tu

Yeah, its really good stuff. Im gonna have to try their other offerings as well. I haven't had time of late, but I'll head over to Scottsdale soon to scope out some fresh products.

I'll be impressed when they make a Cantor Dust Ale, though the beeradvocate snobs would prob give it a measure of zero in their ratings.

[scott]

Agloco, finally had a Parabola last night. Absolutely delicious, nice little hints of vanilla in with the bourbon barrel.

Nice. Parabola is amazing.

I also really enjoy their Velvet Merlin (and the barrel aged version, Velvet Merkin) when I'm wanting a regular strength stout. Firestone Walker hits the money with everything they do it seems.

[Fpoonsie]

Picked up a couple a' DH's 120 Minute IPAs yesterday. Finally get to try them.

[I. Hustle]

IPA's are nasty. Why do you drink that shit? Serious question.

[baseline bum]

Picked up a couple a' DH's 120 Minute IPAs yesterday. Finally get to try them.

Tell us if they're good. I was kind of disappointed by the 90 Minute IPA, so I haven't bothered with their 120 Minute.

[leemajors]

120 is good but a little too sweet for me. the 75 may be my favorite.

[benefactor]

IPA's are nasty. Why do you drink that shit? Serious question.
It's like drinking a pale ale with over the top bitterness...at least the ones had were. Mirror Pond is about as strong as I go.

[Fpoonsie]

Tell us if they're good. I was kind of disappointed by the 90 Minute IPA, so I haven't bothered with their 120 Minute.

Will do. I'm not the BIGGEST fan of overly-hoppy beer, but I've always wanted to try this one each year (just in case), but kept missing it.

A friend loves IPAs, though, so I'll let her be the judge as far as its overall quality.

[baseline bum]

120 is good but a little too sweet for me. the 75 may be my favorite.

That's what I got out of the 90 Minute. I actually prefer the 60 since it has this kind of strange almost berry-like flavor on the tip of the tongue, which I have only seen elsewhere in the Sierra Nevada Southern Hemisphere Harvest Ale 2-3 years ago. Never knew Dogfish made a 75 minute IPA.

[Wild Cobra]

IPA's are nasty. Why do you drink that shit? Serious question.
It's an acquired taste, but a good IPA actually has good tasting bitters. It's not just bitter.

Just drinking beer for the first time is an acquired taste.

[Wild Cobra]

It's like drinking a pale ale with over the top bitterness...at least the ones had were. Mirror Pond is about as strong as I go.
LOL...

Mirror Pond is about as weak as I go.

[benefactor]

I find myself staying right in the middle. I haven't found anything much stronger that I've enjoyed and I've found that anything mainstream is just way too weak.

[I. Hustle]

It's like drinking a pale ale with over the top bitterness...at least the ones had were. Mirror Pond is about as strong as I go.


It's an acquired taste, but a good IPA actually has good tasting bitters. It's not just bitter.

Just drinking beer for the first time is an acquired taste.

Ok well I will still give others a try. I tried a couple at Flying Saucer and I had two different ones at Alamo drafthouse this past weekend. At the drafthouse I had Stash and I forgot the other one. I think it was redish I can't remember.

[Agloco]

I'll be impressed when they make a Cantor Dust Ale, though the beeradvocate snobs would prob give it a measure of zero in their ratings.

Ha!! Fractal Pale Ales?

Have you tried the "31" or Union Jack? I'm sniffing around for the latter this weekend.

[leemajors]

Ha!! Fractal Pale Ales?

Have you tried the "31" or Union Jack? I'm sniffing around for the latter this weekend.

Union Jack is good, Double Jack is even better! Wookie Jack is also tasty.

[Agloco]

Union Jack is good, Double Jack is even better! Wookie Jack is also tasty.


Thanks bud, I'll keep an eye out for those as well.

[Sense]

IPA's are nasty. Why do you drink that shit? Serious question.

You have to get used to it... first time I had them I hated them... but right now it's one of my favorite styles. The hoppier the better now.


Tell us if they're good. I was kind of disappointed by the 90 Minute IPA, so I haven't bothered with their 120 Minute.
Disappointed with 90 minute? :| I don't recommend you try 120 if that's the case, I'm assuming you thought 90 minute was more malty than hoppy.


It's like drinking a pale ale with over the top bitterness...at least the ones had were. Mirror Pond is about as strong as I go.
Mirror Pond is actually pretty weak, imo.. so much I never actually buy it.



I find myself staying right in the middle. I haven't found anything much stronger that I've enjoyed and I've found that anything mainstream is just way too weak.

If you are referring to IPA's.. my favorites from any store are usually Torpedo by Sierra Nevada and Dale's Pale Ale by Oskar Blues.


Union Jack is good, Double Jack is even better! Wookie Jack is also tasty.

I had Wookie Jack on my trip to Austin... WOW .. it was amazing!

I hear they're coming to Texas soon :)

[baseline bum]

Disappointed with 90 minute? :| I don't recommend you try 120 if that's the case, I'm assuming you thought 90 minute was more malty than hoppy.

If you are referring to IPA's.. my favorites from any store are usually Torpedo by Sierra Nevada and Dale's Pale Ale by Oskar Blues.

Yeah, I like my IPAs hoppier. Love Torpedo too, but Ruination is the king for me.

[Sense]

Yeah, I like my IPAs hoppier. Love Torpedo too, but Ruination is the king for me.

You should try Hopsickle, it's amazing and probably... probably one of the hoppiest beers I've had.


The after taste after a sip lasts a few minutes.. it's awesome.

[mrsmaalox]

I was invited to a couple of events at The San Antonio Cocktail Conference this weekend; can't make the one tonight because of the Spurs game, but I'm definitely going to tomorrow's Friendly Craft Beer Break. I'm assuming Blue Star (yuck), Freetail, and Ranger Creek will probably be participating, but I'm curious about other area breweries. Has anyone heard anything about this one?

http://www.sanantoniococktailconference.com/schedule/events/friendly-craft-beer-break/

[Sense]

I got a hold of some FunkMetal yesterday in Austin and my brother was able to get some RU-55, Victory at Sea, Sculpin, and Lagunita Sucks...


he's moving to Austin, so I'm going to make sure to have these types of hauls every time I visit him..


I also hear there's a place in Austin that has The Abyss :o

[leemajors]

I got a hold of some FunkMetal yesterday in Austin and my brother was able to get some RU-55, Victory at Sea, Sculpin, and Lagunita Sucks...


he's moving to Austin, so I'm going to make sure to have these types of hauls every time I visit him..


I also hear there's a place in Austin that has The Abyss :o

It sold out everywhere within an hour as far as I know.

[Sense]

It sold out everywhere within an hour as far as I know.

;) yes... as far as Austin knows! :P


We all know the people who order the cases always hang on to a few..

[leemajors]

;) yes... as far as Austin knows! :P


We all know the people who order the cases always hang on to a few..

A few months ago, I would have said that was true. Not anymore though, unless you can find one for 50% markup at Hyde Park Market. Stores are announcing on fb and twitter when they get shit and it flies off the shelves now. I've kinda given up on getting shit like Abyss for now in Austin.

[Sense]

A few months ago, I would have said that was true. Not anymore though, unless you can find one for 50% markup at Hyde Park Market. Stores are announcing on fb and twitter when they get shit and it flies off the shelves now. I've kinda given up on getting shit like Abyss for now in Austin.

Well we were told to go to a certain store and ask for a certain person about the abyss... unfortunately we were like 15 minutes late and the person left home :P

hopefully we have better luck Saturday.

[leemajors]

Well we were told to go to a certain store and ask for a certain person about the abyss... unfortunately we were like 15 minutes late and the person left home :P

hopefully we have better luck Saturday.

Sam at Sunrise used to hold shit for me, but he stopped. Sucks, but oh well. I'm stocking up on Uinta and Epic in SLC during Spring Break!

[Sense]

Sam at Sunrise used to hold shit for me, but he stopped. Sucks, but oh well. I'm stocking up on Uinta and Epic in SLC during Spring Break!

Anything that you know of going on in Austin this week/weekend?


I'm in town for the week

[leemajors]

there's a beer tasting at Sunrise Market on Friday - Adellbert's, Rogness and Ranger Creek. I don't know of anything else atm, the Beer Advocate thing at Draught was this last Sunday. If you have time on Friday, it's always a good time out at Real Ale's tasting room on Fridays outside of Blanco. Everyone that works there is pretty cool in my experience, I have had many beers with a few of those guys.

[mrsmaalox]

I visited Uncle Billy's at Barton Springs this weekend. I'd been wanting to get some more of their Insomniac Coffee Stout but they had a Smoked Out Stout, which was good but not as smoky as I like. My friend tried the new Tangerine Dream IPA and the Sgt. Stedenko Red Ale, which he said were both "okay", but preferred the Tangerine. Generally I was disappointed with what they had available, one stout and four pale ales; I heard customers asking for blondes or lagers but then opting for bottles of Lone Star instead when there were no other choices.

[leemajors]

A bunch of Uncle Billy's recently left to start a new place. I hope you didn't have the misfortune of trying their "BBQ"

[Sense]

there's a beer tasting at Sunrise Market on Friday - Adellbert's, Rogness and Ranger Creek. I don't know of anything else atm, the Beer Advocate thing at Draught was this last Sunday. If you have time on Friday, it's always a good time out at Real Ale's tasting room on Fridays outside of Blanco. Everyone that works there is pretty cool in my experience, I have had many beers with a few of those guys.

Thanks I'll keep those in mind!

[mrsmaalox]

A bunch of Uncle Billy's recently left to start a new place. I hope you didn't have the misfortune of trying their "BBQ"

:lol Actually I did. I had some pork ribs, I ordered them plain, sauce on the side. They tasted good but were very obviously injected and tenderized; he had that brisket-bacon burger and said it was good.

[mrsmaalox]

Getting ready to head out to the grand opening party at the new Branchline Brewing. Anyone going? There was a tasting at World of Beer a few weeks ago, and although I didn't sample anything, my friend enjoyed the selections. I'll see what they have to offer today :)

[Sense]

Getting ready to head out to the grand opening party at the new Branchline Brewing. Anyone going? There was a tasting at World of Beer a few weeks ago, and although I didn't sample anything, my friend enjoyed the selections. I'll see what they have to offer today :)

Won't be in San Antonio or else I would be there...



I had the pleasure of visiting Jester King Craft Brewery today, and wow.. it definitely lifted my spirits again after a weak trip to St. Arnolds.

10 dollars for a nice tulip(?) glass, and you get to try all of their beers.. including 3 guest beers.

It was unfortunate that I went the day it was windy,cold,rainy, and foggy.. but overall the beers more than made up for it. I recommend everyone to go if you haven't.

Also my brother apparently found a Whiskey Barrel Bigfoot :o, hopefully he opens it before I leave.

[leemajors]

Opened a 2012 Boulevard Rye on Rye last night. It was fucking fantastic, really deepened over the last year. Had some Templeton Rye alongside it, the barrels it was aged in.

[silverblk mystix]

I just finished my first mug of this;


http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/24326/69493



Hasn't gotten the best reviews but I found it at Whole Foods today and thought - why not?

So far so good...a little on the banana-y side but it is a nice change of pace and I can feel the buzz coming fast and hard....I likey!

[Fpoonsie]

http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff1/USPC40_2007/DSC00466.jpg

My local supplier is saving a bottle of this for me that's he getting tomorrow. 21.99/bottle, so I'm hopeful.

[Sense]

I just finished my first mug of this;
I had it and didn't like that it didn't seem controlled.. the carbonation was high and then it seemed to die off rather quick.. just killed it for me.
http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/24326/69493


Hasn't gotten the best reviews but I found it at Whole Foods today and thought - why not?

So far so good...a little on the banana-y side but it is a nice change of pace and I can feel the buzz coming fast and hard....I likey!



I had it and didn't like that it didn't seem controlled.. the carbonation was high and then it seemed to die off rather quick.. just killed it for me.


http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff1/USPC40_2007/DSC00466.jpg

My local supplier is saving a bottle of this for me that's he getting tomorrow. 21.99/bottle, so I'm hopeful.

You lucky SOB!


hey leemajors do you know the best spot to go to on your birthday? Perhaps a free pint? :D

I hear they're going to have the Abyss at a certain bar..

[leemajors]

I generally go to Draught cause I am friends with all the bartenders.

I had some Abyss this year and it wasn't as good as last year fresh, but those are always best after some aging.

[leemajors]

The beers I sent NFO should be there tomorrow. Sent him 2 cans of ABW Fire Eagle IPA, 2 cans of the Southern Star Pro-Am DIPA, and a bomber of St. Arnolds Endeavor.

[Sense]

The beers I sent NFO should be there tomorrow. Sent him 2 cans of ABW Fire Eagle IPA, 2 cans of the Southern Star Pro-Am DIPA, and a bomber of St. Arnolds Endeavor.

nice! Were you able to go to Black Star for The Abyss? Pretty much everyone that walked in there got it.. I also think ONE guy got away with a growler of it, some mistake or something .

[Viva Las Espuelas]

i've given up on trying to find the abyss. i'm simply enjoying Velvet Hammer.

[DPG21920]

i've given up on trying to find the abyss. i'm simply enjoying Velvet Hammer.

You in Dallas? On tap at Vickery Park.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

You in Dallas? On tap at Vickery Park.
yeah but i'm closer to the Plano one. i prefer it in the bottle though. i may check it out. thanks.

[leemajors]

nice! Were you able to go to Black Star for The Abyss? Pretty much everyone that walked in there got it.. I also think ONE guy got away with a growler of it, some mistake or something .

I've only been to Black Star twice, I am not a fan of their setup or their food. Firestone Walker is having a "launch party" at Draught House next week though, hopefully they will have some good stuff left over on Friday for me.

[Sense]

I've only been to Black Star twice, I am not a fan of their setup or their food. Firestone Walker is having a "launch party" at Draught House next week though, hopefully they will have some good stuff left over on Friday for me.

I heard Pizza Pinthouse was doing one too.. when is the one in Draught House? I'll make sure my brother goes to that one instead of Pizza Pinthouse.


and as far as Black Star, I didn't really like the set up, nothing really looked that comfortable. Vulcan was good but not really impressed with the other ones I had.

[leemajors]

I heard Pizza Pinthouse was doing one too.. when is the one in Draught House? I'll make sure my brother goes to that one instead of Pizza Pinthouse.


and as far as Black Star, I didn't really like the set up, nothing really looked that comfortable. Vulcan was good but not really impressed with the other ones I had.

The Draught one is next Thursday. Not sure how I feel about these "launch parties." The owner of Ballast Point showed up 90 minutes late to Pinthouse's launch party for them. He was getting drunk downtown apparently.

[boutons_deux]

Alcohol Blamed for 1 in Every 30 Cancer Deaths: Study
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_134037.html

[boutons_deux]

Beer Belly Myth: Study Claims That Beer Isn't Tied To Weight Gain, Has Health Benefits
The Telegraph reports that nutritionist Dr. Kathryn O’Sullivan recently authored the study, titled "Beer & Calories; A Scientific Review," on behalf of the beer industry

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/15/beer-belly-myth_n_2694912.html

:lol

[Fpoonsie]

Stop faggin up this glorious thread.

[leemajors]

Had a 75 Minute IPA last night, it was great. GF is doing the beer ordering at Antonelli's Cheese Shop now, I am trying to keep her updated on what is coming out and through who - maybe have a better chance of getting some rare bottles in town.

AFAIK 512 Double Pecan Porter bottles should be going out in early March. I got some inside info on this one luckily, my friend has worked there since they started up.

[mrsmaalox]

Late Valentine's Day gift----I can't drink this stuff so I'll probably just re-gift to the original gifter


http://img131.imagevenue.com/loc93/th_225557329_photo2_122_93lo.JPG (http://img131.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=225557329_photo2_122_93lo.JPG)

[leemajors]

Pliny is one of the best.

[I. Hustle]

Late Valentine's Day gift----I can't drink this stuff so I'll probably just re-gift to the original gifter


http://img131.imagevenue.com/loc93/th_225557329_photo2_122_93lo.JPG (http://img131.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=225557329_photo2_122_93lo.JPG)

Or you could make a trade for some salted caramel chocolate whatevers.

[NFO]

http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff1/USPC40_2007/DSC00466.jpg

My local supplier is saving a bottle of this for me that's he getting tomorrow. 21.99/bottle, so I'm hopeful.

$21.99!!!

Paid $16.99 here in Ohio.

Also just sent leemajors some beers for sending me some Texas. Sent him mostly Ohio stuff like White Raja and Old 21 from the Brew Kettle, Head Hunter IPA from FatHeads, Hop Dam (triple IPA) from Hoppin Frog and a Hopslam from Bells out of Michigan.

[leemajors]

Dallas area folk - Deep Ellum Brewing is hosting a Suds and Smoke event next week:

http://foodwaystexas.com/2013/01/suds-and-smoke-event/

Viva Las Espuelas, is Peticolas good? A friend of mine handles beer for a bar called Chicago House here drove up to get some kegs from there and I was wondering if their beers were worth checking out, saw you liked Velvet Hammer and they have some of that left.

Had some barrel aged Old Rasputin last night, the bartenders at Draught House said it was the most expensive keg they had ever ordered. It was pretty fucking good.

[Spurminator]

Velvet Hammer is great.

[Fpoonsie]

Peticola's Wintervention was pretty good. No idea if it's still available, though.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Peticolas is fucking great! I thought DEBC had good stuff but Peticolas is top notch. Velvet hammer is the smoothest 9% I've ever had. Wintervention is awesome and Royal Scandal, their 2012 Gold Medal GABF award winner, is awesome as well.

[Darius McCrary]

How are Ranger Creek beers? This place near me is going to have Small batch series 4, oatmeal pale ale, red headed stranger, and lucky ol sun on tap. I really dig bourbon barrel aged stuff, so I'm thinking of filling up on the Special batch, but never tried any if them.

[mrsmaalox]

Ranger Creek's Small Batch #4 is my favorite beer right now. It's their Mesquite Smoked Porter, another of my favorites, aged in their own bourbon barrels (they are a distillery also). I also like Lucky Ol' Sun, it's very crisp, light and fruity. Most of the people I know prefer the OPA best, but it's not for me.

[leemajors]

Ranger Creek's head brewer left to start his own place in Idaho a few weeks ago. Good luck Rob!

[alamo50]

I go to a beer tastery every month.
We come together to taste 6 special beers
This is the 2nd time I was blown away by a beer:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/c48.0.403.403/p403x403/560523_337543483012072_1726012572_n.jpg

[NFO]

I go to a beer tastery every month.
We come together to taste 6 special beers
This is the 2nd time I was blown away by a beer:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/c48.0.403.403/p403x403/560523_337543483012072_1726012572_n.jpg

I have had that Barleywine before as well. Very excellent, but does not come close to Three Floyds Behemoth barley wine.

[alamo50]

I'm gonna search that one NFO!

[NFO]

I'm gonna search that one NFO!

Probably would have to do a trade for that one. I live in Ohio (30 miles from the In border) and they are made in Indiana and they are hard for me to get. Good luck thought it is an amazing beer. I get as many as I can when they do make it to Ohio.

[leemajors]

Three Floyds is great, just had an Arctic Panzer Wolf three weeks ago, and love the Alpha King too. Their labels are amazing, one of my good buddies' tattoo artist has designed sone of their stuff before. Their booth at GABF is a must stop for me.

[NFO]

How is the availability of Three Floyds down in Texas?

[leemajors]

How is the availability of Three Floyds down in Texas?

Not available, the same friend's brother lived in Chicago for a while and would bring stuff down

[Sense]

Did you end up going to a release party for Firestone Walker?


My brother ended up going to the one in Draught House, he said he got a growler of Union Jack or Wookey Jack and tons of glasses.. and I think even bottles.

I'm so fucking jelly.

[leemajors]

Did you end up going to a release party for Firestone Walker?


My brother ended up going to the one in Draught House, he said he got a growler of Union Jack or Wookey Jack and tons of glasses.. and I think even bottles.

I'm so fucking jelly.

I had my daughter that night, but they still had plenty of Firestone beers left last night. My roomate went and picked me up a glass, though.

[Winehole23]

http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/cityofate/2013/03/senator_john_caronas_bill_coul.php

[leemajors]

http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/cityofate/2013/03/senator_john_caronas_bill_coul.php

all I can say is ugh. One of the few BOOMING businesses and they want to either hamstring or keep them neutered.

[leemajors]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/beestrofowler/dpp_zps49fc2c7b.jpg
:cry

[Sense]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/beestrofowler/dpp_zps49fc2c7b.jpg
:cry

My asshole brother got 4 of them.

[leemajors]

My asshole brother got 4 of them.

I'm working the taps at the Draught Anniversary in Oct, I will get plenty then!

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Boy was that pecan porter a let down.

[leemajors]

Lagunitas Fusion on tap around TX at the moment is pretty good if you like hoppy lagunitas beers.

[Fpoonsie]

http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/bella/revolver-beer-texas.jpg

Their "Blood and Honey" might be my new favorite beer. Holy shit.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/bella/revolver-beer-texas.jpg

Their "Blood and Honey" might be my new favorite beer. Holy shit.
i've been hearing a lot of good things about that beer. i'll just have to wait for the Big Texas Beer Fest. you going to that?

[Sense]

Soon... Scott.. soon.

[mrsmaalox]

I've been trying unsuccessfully to upload from my phone a photo of a frosty bottle of Cuban SWILL called "Bucanero" from my Caribbean vacation a couple of weeks ago. Ghastly. My friend is a Cuban cigar aficionado but a beer novice (worse than me; he lives on the edge with Shiner Bock lol) and we decided this Cuban stuff could be recreated by placing his cigar stub in a couple inches of Bud and leaving it outside on our balcony for a couple of nights. I opted for the $2/bottle Red Stripe (Jamaican not American) which was perfect but went down like water on that beach :)

[Darius McCrary]

Looks like Texas micro breweries are gonna lose quite a bit of money by losing their distribution rights. Deep Ellum Brewing company is quite angry.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Yep

[Darius McCrary]

http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/bella/revolver-beer-texas.jpg

Their "Blood and Honey" might be my new favorite beer. Holy shit.

This is a good beer but just doesn't feel right when i tried it. Was a cold day. Blood and honey will be perfect once it warms up and for warm afternoon drinking.

[Drachen]

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/food/2013/03/laws-reforming-texas-beer-laws-pass-to-full-senate-but-upset-some-brewers/

Good, bad, indifferent?

It sounds like there is more freedom for the various brewers, but with a lot of limits and checks. What do you guys think?

Is this a victory scott ?

Edit, I just went through and reread the damn thing.


Freetail’s Scott Metzger states that “I will contend until the day I di[e] that this was a victory for Texas craft brewers”

I don't know how I missed that, I wish I could pretend that I was being sarcastic with the question above, but I was not.

LOL


leemajors I guess my question was more targeted at the fact that the part that he developed was watered down a little and that the surprise bill that was introduced and passed was included, so did the good outweigh the bad. I got my answer in the article though.

[Darius McCrary]

Not for North Texas Breweries according to what I've read.

[leemajors]

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/food/2013/03/laws-reforming-texas-beer-laws-pass-to-full-senate-but-upset-some-brewers/

Good, bad, indifferent?

It sounds like there is more freedom for the various brewers, but with a lot of limits and checks. What do you guys think?

Is this a victory scott ?

I believe he helped make it happen, so I would assume so.

[leemajors]

Not for North Texas Breweries according to what I've read.

They can sell pints onsite now, which can only benefit them in the long run. I think Deep Ellum is being a bit short sighted, as Drachen's article states. Nothing great for everyone was gonna happen overnight, and hopefully things will continue to change. A couple years ago there was no chance of changes being discussed at all.

[TSA]

Just picked up a 22 of Ballast Point Indra Kunindra. Stout with curry, cumin, cayenne, coconut and kaffir lime. Holy shit is this good.

[Drachen]

Just picked up a 22 of Ballast Point Indra Kunindra. Stout with curry, cumin, cayenne, coconut and kaffir lime. Holy shit is this good.

Where did you get this

[leemajors]

Where did you get this

I think he is in SD, probably only available in CA. TX gets ballast point now but none of their special stuff.

[Drachen]

I think he is in SD, probably only available in CA. TX gets ballast point now but none of their special stuff.

Sad day.

[leemajors]

Just made my SLC beer run - grabbed Uinta Brewing: Sea Legs baltic porter, Dubhe Black IPA (4 pack), Birthday Suit Sour Brown Ale.

Epic Brewing: Big Bad Baptist Imperial Coffee Stout, Utah Sage Saison, Hopulent IPA, Imperial IPA. Would have got more but United's baggage fees suck.

Also got a bottle of High West Distillery's Double Rye Whiskey after trying a sampler of their spirits in Park City. Pretty tasty stuff.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

They can sell pints onsite now, which can only benefit them in the long run. I think Deep Ellum is being a bit short sighted, as Drachen (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=430)'s article states.i don't think they are. they're a brewery not a brewpub. i can see their beef with having to run a restaurant on top of running a brewery. DEBC and a lot of other breweries here in North Texas, and i'm sure everywhere else, sell to restaurants and will now be competing with them. that's another big investment these breweries have to take on.

[leemajors]

That's not what they are upset about. No brewpub in TX has the capacity to "compete" with a production brewery.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

yes. not the only thing they're upset about, but....."Here's the bottom line... the purchase and sale of distribution rights is legal - always has been. In the compromise, our rights were taken. I can't support that. No matter how much icing they throw on the cake. If I wanted to run a pub, I would have run a pub. We still can't sell our beer to go. So, now I'm looking at running a pub, alongside a manufacturing facility, all the while trying to make enough beer to supply both." debc's facebook

[leemajors]

I had seen this one the other day on twitter: "Deep Ellum Brewing Company
Mar 12 at 6:53pm ·
Such a huge step backward for microbreweries. Congrats to the regionals, brewpubs, and most especially the distributors for getting all you wanted. It only cost you.... OUR distribution value!! SB 639 is a terrible piece of legislation. To see it now being triumphed as a win for the craft community is an absolute travesty."

I just think they're being awfully melodramatic. I don't think anyone got everything they wanted.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

More "melodramatics" from North Dallas's Peticolas

Peticolas Brewing Company
SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2013

Anti-craft beer bill SB639 mars craft beer legislation
************** Anti-craft beer bill 639 takes away rights of Texas craft beer brewers.* Specifically, the proposed bill prohibits a brewer from selling its territorial distribution rights.* Currently, Texas brewers have the right to self-distribute their beer.* A brewer willing to sell its self-distribution rights and a wholesaler willing to buy those rights can enter into an agreement whereby the wholesaler purchases the brewer's right to distribute beer in a specified territory.* Proposed anti-craft beer bill 639 renders such practice illegal.* In essence, anti-craft beer bill 639 is a legal constraint on the freedom of willing buyers and sellers to exercise their rights in the free market.
*
*************** While anti-craft beer bill 639 prohibits a brewer from selling its own distribution rights, it does not prohibit a wholesaler from selling those same rights to another wholesaler.* In other words, a brewer could not sell its territorial rights, but a distributor holding such rights could freely sell them to another distributor.* Further, once a brewer signs with a wholesaler, it arguably cannot break the distribution agreement without compensating such wholesaler for the fair market value of the brewer's distribution rights.* So under anti-craft beer bill 639, a brewer cannot receive payment from a wholesaler for the brewer's distribution rights, a wholesaler can receive payment from another wholesaler for a brewer's distribution rights, and a brewer may actually have to pay a wholesaler to buy back its own distribution rights.* The free market exists for wholesalers under anti-craft beer bill 639, but not brewers.* *

We are against anti-craft beer bill 639.* Texas is notorious for its antiquated beer laws.* At a time when consumers are requesting more favorable beer legislation, anti-craft beer bill 639 pushes us in the opposite direction.* Are we headed down a slippery slope?* There is no guarantee that proposed 2015 legislation won't seek to go further and void additional brewer rights.* We cannot support any legislation that seeks to take away rights currently enjoyed by any brewer in Texas.* *

How did anti-craft beer bill 639 come into being?* Approximately one year ago, Texas Senator Carona created working groups to debate and draft potential craft beer legislation.* Upon completion, the working groups submitted craft beer bills 515-518.* Without any prior discussion of anti-craft beer bill 639, Senator Carona sponsored 639 as craft beer bills 515-518 were submitted to the Business and Commerce committee.* Last Monday, the newest revision of anti-craft beer bill 639 included language expressly incorporating it as part of the remaining package of craft beers bills (515-518).

*************** We now find ourselves in an awkward position.* Craft beer bills 515-518 become law only if anti-craft beer bill 639 is also enacted.* Literally lose rights in exchange for other rights. Support or fight the entire package. *We are discussing the issues, educating ourselves and weighing options.* We'll eventually come down on one side or the other, but we remain focused on analyzing the scenario created for us just 6 days ago.*

Unfortunately, the Texas legislature has not passed any favorable craft beer legislation in the last 20 years.* Texas craft brewers' only recent statutory victories resulted from claims asserted in federal court. *Should anti-craft beer bill 639 become law, we hope to join with other similarly situated brewers to challenge the legality of this legislation.*

Law over beer once again...dang it! *Alfred Brown Peticolas would be pleased.
Michael Peticolas at 4:01 PM

http://peticolasbrewing.blogspot.com/2013/03/anti-craft-beer-bill-sb639-mars-craft.html?m=1

Oh and Michael Peticolas, the owner, is a lawyer

[leemajors]

Scott's Blog Post:

http://blog.freetailbrewing.com/2013/03/14/on-deals-and-disagreements-beer-bills-move-forward/


On Deals and Disagreements: Beer Bills Move Forward

As has been widely reported, a deal was struck late Monday afternoon between The Texas Craft Brewers Guild, distributor groups, large brewers, and Open The Taps.

The final deal includes the following bills, and here is the final version of what they do (items in earlier versions of the bills but not listed below are not part of the final bills):

SB 515:

increases annual production limit of brewpubs from 5,000 barrels to 10,000 barrels
allows all brewpubs to sell to wholesalers
allows brewpubs who only sell alcoholic beverages made on-site to self-distribute up to 1,000 barrels per year from a single brewpub, and up to 2,500 barrels per year from all brewpubs owned by the same licensee
SB 516 & 517

creates a new Brewer Distributor permit, with a fee set at $250, which a production brewer under 125,000 barrels of annual production can obtain to self-distribute up to 40,000 barrels per year
SB 518

allows production breweries who are under 225,000 barrels of annual production to sell up to 5,000 barrels per year to ultimate consumers for on-site consumption
SB 639

codifies the 2010 TABC Marketing Practices Bulletin against the practice of “Reach-Back Pricing”, which is the practice where a manufacturer will adjust his price to a wholesaler based specifically on the price a wholesaler sells to a retailer. The new language goes on to specifically state that a manufacturer is still free to adjust prices as necessary, however it cannot be based on the wholesaler’s price to the retailer
outlaws a manufacturer from accepting payment specifically in exchange for an agreement setting forth territorial rights
sets forth language that specifically permits a manufacturer and a wholesaler to enter in contractual agreements that govern ordinary business, including but not limited to, allowances, rebates, refunds, services, capacity, advertising funds, promotional funds, or sports marketing funds
states the code does not prohibit a wholesaler from selling territorial rights of a manufacturer to another wholesaler
I am fully aware of the dissatisfaction of some members of our Guild at the provisions contained in the new 639, specifically “outlaws a manufacturer from accepting payment specifically in exchange for an agreement setting forth territorial rights.”

This provision of 639 came into being because wholesalers felt the practice of paying for territorial rights violated the tied-house provisions of the Alcoholic Beverage Code. TABC was asked to clarify such payments did, in fact, represent a violation of the TABC code. TABC’s response was not to say the practice was legal or illegal, but rather to say that they didn’t know and would benefit from legislative clarification. Thus, the original SB 639 contained this provision.

Recently, such payments have occurred in the marketplace and the practice is becoming more common, though certainly not the standard. At the same time, some of my closest colleagues in the industry have confided in me that they never received any payment for their distribution rights, because when they asked TABC, they were told it was illegal. It is important to stress that at no point has TABC or the Legislature specifically said this transaction was legal.

Throughout the course of the debate on this specific provision of 639, I fought tirelessly to earn the right of brewers to be able to sell the distribution rights. No one put up a bigger fight and no one took as much of a beating on this than me. Make no mistake, my position and the position of the Texas Craft Brewers Guild is that a brewer who builds a valuable distribution network through his or her right to self-distribute should be compensated for that value when he or she turns operations over to a distributor.

There was a point when it became very clear to me that this provision of 639 was going to move forward as the Legislature felt this activity should be illegal rather than specifically making it legal. This is up for every person to debate on their own, but I had come to understand with absolutely certainty that this practice was going to be outlawed one way or another. The debate was had, and the debate was lost by my side.

When that moment occurred, we immediately shifted gears to try to make this provision in 639 as palatable as possible (if it could even be done). This is where the language that sets forth other ways in which manufacturers and wholesalers comes from. While the specific payment in exchange for territorial rights was outlawed, for the first time in Texas history, we codified a series of other agreements that often occurred in the marketplace but had questionable legality.

I’m not just saying this to defend myself, but because I believe this is absolutely a true statement: without the work of the Guild, the provisions of 639 would have been a lot worse for Texas craft brewers. Not only did we curb some of the provisions in that bill, we gained rights that myself and some of my colleagues have been working on for almost a decade.

To be very clear: we did not “trade” the provisions of SB 639 in exchange for SB 515-18. Rather, we were able to greatly scale back 639 (including defeating the proposed severability language and mandated uniform pricing) while also gaining the rights enumerated in 515-18. For this, I will contend until the day I die that this was a victory for Texas craft brewers – and that first such victory since Brewpubs were legalized in 1993.

I welcome and encourage your feedback and discussion on this issue.

Was anyone Deep Ellum and Peticolas down there trying to actually work on the bill? It sounds like they made the best of a very bad situation with 639 to me, which would probably have sailed through unaltered.

[leemajors]

Anyone seen the Dogfish 61 around? IPA with Syrah must:

http://drinks.seriouseats.com/2013/03/new-beer-dogfish-head-sixty-one-ipa-with-syrah-grape-must-review.html?ref=title

[ShinerBlack]

Anyone else try batch 19 and surprised by how good it actually was? Was at heb this weekend and they were sampling it, I tried it and bought a 6 pack. Didn't drink it til today but was pleasantly surprised at how much taste it had and that it went down smooth with no shitty after-taste. Would definitely recommend it.

[mrsmaalox]

^^I love the beer tastings at HEB and Whole Foods, lots of good beers to discover! I got this one from an Italian brewery, Amarcord, last week and it was a very nice treat
http://www.birraamarcord.it/immagini/bottiglia-ama-bruna-piccola.jpg

[leemajors]

http://www.craftbeer.com/news/beer-release/bear-republic-brewing-company-to-release-black-racer-in-bottles?utm_source=feedburner


Bear Republic Brewing Company is adding another popular, award winning beer to their seasonal bottled offerings, Black Racer. Currently being bottled and kegged, Black Racer will be landing on shelves in select areas of California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, and Virginia during the first week of April. This will shortly be followed by distribution in Maryland, Texas, Ohio, Arizona, and additional California and New York markets.

Had this at GABF :tu

[Fpoonsie]

http://ww1.hdnux.com/photos/16/72/60/3910708/5/628x471.jpg

Picked up this and a bomber of St. Arnold's Divine Reserve today. :tu

[Viva Las Espuelas]

a bomber of St. Arnold's Divine Reserve today. :tu
Oh damn. Where?

[leemajors]

Nm, Austin list sorry. I know if you sign up on their site for the newsletter they email about current events near you.

[Fpoonsie]

My hook-up at the local, Denton specialty beer shop.

[Sense]

http://ww1.hdnux.com/photos/16/72/60/3910708/5/628x471.jpg

Picked up this and a bomber of St. Arnold's Divine Reserve today. :tu

How were both?

DR13 is still in stores here in Beaumont, I believe.. and on tap on some places.. I'm curious about that Game of Thrones beer..

[leemajors]

Had some Whisky Barrel Double Pecan Porter on tap last night at Draught House, very tasty. I have it on good authority they may do another batch before the end of the year :toast

[boutons_deux]

Craft Brews Slowly Chipping Away At Big Beer's Dominance

http://media.npr.org/assets/img/2013/03/17/craft_beers_wide-075859fd60a226df0e8f6f90f5b60b18abac95c5-s40.jpg

In the U.S., we drink $200 billion worth of the hops-brewed libation annually. What many Americans might not know is that most domestic beer, 90 percent in fact, is dominated by just two companies: Anheuser-Busch InBev and MillerCoors.

Innovators, however, are challenging that dominance in the form of craft beer breweries. Small mom-and-pop-style breweries — or regional breweries — now account for about 6 percent of domestic beer sales. That may seem like a small number, but it's been growing every year since the early 1990s, while big brewers' share is declining.

There are now more small breweries than there were before Prohibition, when beer was largely a regional business.

http://www.npr.org/2013/03/17/174571197/craft-brews-slowly-chipping-away-at-big-beers-dominance?ft=3&f=111787346&sc=nl&cc=es-20130324

[Winehole23]

http://www.kutnews.org/post/senate-approves-new-beer-rules

[mrsmaalox]

fyi---I just spotted 5 cases St Arnold's DR#13 at HEB 1604/281. If you want it get there fast, I just tweeted @SABeerExperts, they've been looking for it all week.

[Winehole23]

bills pass the TX Senate: http://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/state-politics/20130325-craft-brews-get-their-happy-hour-with-senate-passage-of-major-bills.ece

[leemajors]

Sense Join us on the patio BILLysOnBurnet - Friday April 5 @ 7PM for a super special CASK of 512 Brewing - Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter


Also, opened a 2011 Abyss the other night. Delicious.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Big Texas Beer Fest in 3 days. Yay.

This is just the special beers that are going to be there. I don't exactly what to think about that shock top beer being on there.
http://americancraftbeer.com/images/stories/article_images/2013/03/big-texas/big%20texas%20beer%20fest%202013%20beer%20list.jpg

[Sense]

Sense Join us on the patio BILLysOnBurnet - Friday April 5 @ 7PM for a super special CASK of 512 Brewing - Whiskey Barrel Aged Double Pecan Porter


Also, opened a 2011 Abyss the other night. Delicious.


Damnit I saw this late.. I was going to go to Austin today too, ended up not taking the trip.

I'll let my brother know see if he wants to show up.. thanks for the invite though!

[mrsmaalox]

New favorite beer: Wasatch Polygamy Porter :toast

[leemajors]

Real Ale's Anniversary Party is this weekend, they moved it up from June so it won't be so hot. It's always a blast:

http://realalebrewing.com/news/64-17anniparty

http://realalebrewing.com/images/17anni_flyer.jpg

[mrsmaalox]

^^ Planning on it! The Big Hops Growler Station and The Cerverceros here in SA have chartered a bus for $25 round trip.

[Sense]

^^ Planning on it! The Big Hops Growler Station and The Cerverceros here in SA have chartered a bus for $25 round trip.

Looks like you're getting the craft beer fever as well :P


Founders and Southern Tier are already in Texas! I'm super stocked.. also my brother told me Wookie Jack was in the shelves already at only 6.50 a bottle.. wow.

[RandomGuy]

Real Ale's Anniversary Party is this weekend, they moved it up from June so it won't be so hot. It's always a blast:

http://realalebrewing.com/news/64-17anniparty

http://realalebrewing.com/images/17anni_flyer.jpg

effing awesome. Somethign to take the kids to and get out and about!

[RandomGuy]

As I sit here at work, surrounded by beer my mind cannot help but to continually cycle back to the bottle of Harviestoun Ola Dubh 30 sitting in my fridge at home. Will tonight be the night I crack it open and savor it's greatness? Perhaps not... but at least I can dream in the meantime...

http://bierkraft.com/ProductImages/Harviestoun_Ola_Dubh_30_bottle_box.jpg

So fellow Club Beer Lovers... what is latest to occupy your beer daydreams?

Congrats on the recent legislative victory

[I. Hustle]

As I sit here at work, surrounded by morons, my mind can't help but cycle back to that case of Pabst Blue Ribbon sitting the ice chest/coffee table in my living room/bedroom.
http://blogs.villagevoice.com/forkintheroad/pbrv.jpg
Tatt courtesy of the World Famous KoriWhat.

[CosmicCowboy]

I just finished hooking up a new micro brewery in New Braunfels. Well, technically I didn't. My guys did.

[mrsmaalox]

effing awesome. Somethign to take the kids to and get out and about!

The weather will be perfect!

If any ST folks are gonna make it out there, let me know----I'll be meeting up with some friends there and it would be fun to hoist one with ya'll :toast

[leemajors]

That was pretty fun! Lines got a little insane for a bit, I waited at least 30 mins for a beer at one point then just stuck to cans.

[mrsmaalox]

That was pretty fun! Lines got a little insane for a bit, I waited at least 30 mins for a beer at one point then just stuck to cans.

:toast I had fun too! It all worked out well considering the large crowd and only one serving station---they could have easily accommodated another one in that humongous place. I just hit the canned beer once, I knew the 4Squared would be too hoppy for me, so I went for the Hans Pils and absolutely hated it! :lol So my only option was the lines to obtain the Brown Ale which is about the only Real Ale product I like. But it was a perfect afternoon, had a blast seeing all the dogs (my friend had the absolutely worst behaved dog there :rolleyes) and I successfully sweet talked a few drunk guys out of their glasses so I came home with a great assortment of glassware :D But with a couple of stops afterward, I am pretty "beered out" and ready to take a couple of weeks off.

[leemajors]

Dang, I love the Hans Pils.

[Sense]

My brother hooked me up with some 2XIPA and Wookey Jack yesterday.. I could have Wookey everyday and never get tired of it.

[Darius McCrary]

Has anyone tried Divine Reserve 13 on tap from a cask? I tried some this weekend and it was so so much better than the DR13 in bottles that i bought weeks ago that it almost tasted like a different beer.
I was wondering if the bottles i got had gone bad or something because the cask batch was incredibly good, different aroma, different finish, compared to my bottles.

[RandomGuy]

That was pretty fun! Lines got a little insane for a bit, I waited at least 30 mins for a beer at one point then just stuck to cans.

I ended up not going, because I didn't think thwere would be anything for the kids to do. Was there anything?

[Fpoonsie]

Had some of this DH limited release over the weekend. Outstanding.

http://brewkeep.com/images/blogs/20130312/dogfish-head-rhizing-bines.jpg

[leemajors]

Had some of this DH limited release over the weekend. Outstanding.

http://brewkeep.com/images/blogs/20130312/dogfish-head-rhizing-bines.jpg

that's the sierra collab? the previous were pretty good, think they were either dark ales or stouts.

[Fpoonsie]

that's the sierra collab? the previous were pretty good, think they were either dark ales or stouts.

Yeah, that's what it was. I knew it was a collab with SOMEone, as I was informed by "my guy."

Really good stuff, though. Wow.

[leemajors]

I ended up not going, because I didn't think thwere would be anything for the kids to do. Was there anything?

There were lots of kids out there, not sure about kid activities.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

I'd think mixing kids with a beer fest isn't the smartest route to go. Unless the kids are their parent's DD.

[RandomGuy]

I'd think mixing kids with a beer fest isn't the smartest route to go. Unless the kids are their parent's DD.

Beer is my kids' cultural heritage man. :D

Wife and I both have a lot of German in our backgrounds.

[Darius McCrary]

Has anyone tried Divine Reserve 13 on tap from a cask? I tried some this weekend and it was so so much better than the DR13 in bottles that i bought weeks ago that it almost tasted like a different beer.
I was wondering if the bottles i got had gone bad or something because the cask batch was incredibly good, different aroma, different finish, compared to my bottles.

Anyone?

[leemajors]

Anyone?

I usually wait a few months to try those, they can change a lot.

[Darius McCrary]

I thought DR13 was a one time release in bottles.

[leemajors]

I thought DR13 was a one time release in bottles.

I sit on stuff sometimes, and St. Arnolds usually brings a case or two to the Draught House Anniversary party in Oct.

[Darius McCrary]

I still have plenty i have not opened. Tried a 12oz bottle a week and a half ago, the same as when i bought them.

The cask DR13 was totally different.

[Sense]

If you're in Houston on 420.. Hit The Petrol Station, it's going to be tapping lots of goodies like creme brule and KBS.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

The Founder's guys are here in dfw for tastings with that KBS. Is it worth it? They're doing flights for $15. Eek.

[InRareForm]

http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/04/study-beers-taste-alone-gets-people-a-little-high/275047/

interesting

[leemajors]

The Founder's guys are here in dfw for tastings with that KBS. Is it worth it? They're doing flights for $15. Eek.

KBS is amazing but I think 4 packs go for ~$20, if you can find it.

[Capt Bringdown]

Looking forward to being in Munich next week. Augustiner Helles, my fave beer.
http://www.munichbeergardens.com/images/beer/thumb/Augustiner-Keller_001.jpg/600px-Augustiner-Keller_001.jpg

[NFO]

KBS is amazing but I think 4 packs go for ~$20, if you can find it.

About what it goes for here as well. Depending on the area you can find quite a bit of it around here.

[Sense]

The Founder's guys are here in dfw for tastings with that KBS. Is it worth it? They're doing flights for $15. Eek.

Founders makes some awesome beers, but their most "popular" at least nationwide I think is their KBS because imo it's one of the best stouts ... uh in the world?

Anyway Petrol Station is also going to have DFH burton baton, positive contact, and chateau jiahu,old curmudgeon, 2012 old guardian, Stone XVI ipa w/green tea, smoked porter w/ vanilla bean, DFH/Sierra rhizing bines on tap besides southern tier creme brûlée and KBS..

I wish I could go to that..

[leemajors]

baseline bum you check that Stone RuinTen? Damn hoppy, only $7.99 at my local store here in austin