Beer 4 - Baltika Brewery Baltika 7

Style: Dortmunder/Export Lager
Purchased at: Vintage Cellar
What makes this beer different: A quick punch in the face; and BTW it's from Russia!
Will I be drinking this again: Probably, but not often.
Grade: C+

Comments:
This beer is just OK to me. I would usually consider it an average Eastern European pilsner, but there are two things that set it apart; (1) it is from Russia, which I find neat & (2) the bottle including presentation is subtle but eye catching.

Baltika 7 is a classic eastern european pilsner with honey and sugar overtones. The taste and waft are not very strong, but I must admit that the aftertaste lingers (which is a good thing for this beer). Bottom line is that this beer has a hint of complexity in it that should not be ignored. The lager has a clean, smooth taste and exhibits excellent lacing.

Recommendations:
Pours well with potato skins, pizza bites and mozzarella sticks! Also, beer mug will not suffice for this beer; complexity demands a bulb, bavarian, or czech pilsner. No exceptions! Enjoy.

Comments

Beer #11 - Buffalo Bill's Blueberry Oatmeal Stout

Style: Stout Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Blueberries! Will I be drinking this again: Yes. Grade: B Comments: Yes, another blueberry beer. But this one is more aligned to my tastes! The moment the aroma hits your nose, you smell the blueberries. But the smell can be deceiving, as the delicate blend of hops and barley in this beer contrast the blueberries in a wonderful way so they are not too strong. This is a full and heavy stout so be prepared. If you are looking to shake things up with something a little different than the norm, give this one a shot. If you don't like stouts or porters, this one is no different and I would stay away if I were you. Recommendations: Try this brew out with some hot wings and fried mozzarella while watching Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and watch Violet Beauregarde turn into a plump blueberry!

Beer #23 - McSorley's Irish Pale Ale

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

Beer #8 - Sea Dog Blue Paw Wild Blueberry Wheat Ale

Style: Fruit Beer Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Blueberries. Will I be drinking this again: Possibly; if in the mood. Grade: B- Preliminary Ranking: 6 Comments: Light in color and very light, fluffy head. I love blueberries in everything, and this beer is packed with 'em. Pretty smooth & sweet taste, not bitter. Sweet malt mixed with the blueberries make tis beer quite unique. Plenty of carbonation, no lacing. In Dabney's words, "It's interesting". This beer is more of a dessert to me, but it is an excellent fruit beer. Recommendations: Pair this brew with a slice of New York Cheesecake topped with blueberry sauce and it's a perfect combo. Magnifico!

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