The Beer Enthusiasts of Blacksburg

Style: Dubbel Purchased at: Vintage Cellar, Courtesy of DJ What makes this beer different: Quite Fruity & Spicy Will I be drinking this again: Yes Grade: A-   Comments:   On the 25th beer, I thought it would be best if I reviewed a beer created by a brewery I hold in HIGH esteem; Brewery Ommegang. You may remember them from an earlier review of one of my favorite Quads, Three Philosophers. Ommegangs foundation is in developing traditional Belgium style ales, and adding their twist to them. This ale is comprised of figs, honey, licorice, cloves, chocolate, toffee, spicy hops, and a plentiful amount of dried fruits. The aroma is very inviting and I just love how it feels in my mouth, mostly do to the delicate balance of carbonation. For a dubbel, this is one of my favorites; the Westmalle is still the favorite, but this classic American brewery has created another hit in my book! Ommegang Abbey Ale was presented to me for enjoyment at one of the many gatherings put

Style: Irish Red Ale Purchased at: Wine Gourmet What makes this beer different: Amarillo Hops Will I be drinking this again: Definitely ... Period! Grade: A- Comments:   This ale bodes a strong hoppy taste with a slight detection of toffee! There are no bubbles in the brew ... well that's a lie, but there is one bubble every 15 seconds or so. Kind of curious looking. I was worried that this thing would have no carbonation, but let me tell you, it has the PERFECT amount. This is unique ale, something worth searching for. It will run you about $7 a bottle, and you can't get it in a six pack ... but if you have the means to afford a crate regularly, give me a call and I'll be there! All things said, a fantastic brew and one worth trying at the very least; the beer gods demand that much :) Recommendations: Had this one by itself, but I think a nice marinated flank steak with some greens on the side would compliment the beer!

Style: Irish Ale Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Spicy, Earthy flavor! Will I be drinking this again: Yes. Grade: B+ Recommendations: Just like its big brother, the black lager, this pale ale is a winner! Smooth & crisp tones accent this hoppy ale. McSorley's Pale Ale is a mix between an English Ale and an Irish Red Ale. Word to the wise: You will find this brew quite drinkable, so don't lose track of how many you put back! Recommendations: Try pairing with a nice cut of prime rib and garlic mashed potatoes :) YUM

Style: Euro Dark Lager Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Heavy carbonation. Will I be drinking this again: Definitely. Grade: B+ Comments: First off, what an AWESOME beer! DJ turned me onto this beer, and its lighter sister the pale ale, and I love 'em. Thanks DJ! Ok, so the bad thing about this beer is that sometimes, just sometimes it leaves you wanting a little more flavor and oomph; that being said it is unbelievably drinkable and one of the best Irish Lager's I have had to date! Any day, any night, anytime this beer is refreshing and I would put my recommendation behind it. END OF BANTER! Recommendations: A must with a corned beef sandwich or traditional Ruben! Mouth watering :)

Style: Hefeweizen Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: The slight detection of banana. Will I be drinking this again: Maybe. Grade: C+ Comments: This hef is no match for a traditional Bavarian Hefeweizen. That being said, it is actually pretty good. It isn't the best beer I have ever had, but it is worth a try ... let's put it this way, I wouldn't turn it down if offered to me at a barbecue! It is an easy drink, with medium consistency. Recommendations: Have this one with a nice Italian grinder sandwich!