Since 2017
If you're new to craft beer, or just not overly adventurous, theres a pretty good chance you've never tried a Gose-style beer. I am a little embarrassed to admit just how long it took for me to stumble upon this style, but once I did I knew I was onto a winner. As unappealing as it may sound at the outset, sour beers are (more often than not) delicious.
And here we are. The final full review of the six-beer competition that was Battle of the Beers - Summer Brews. This one is very much the traditional summer-style pilsner beer. This is in no way a bad thing. Light, crisp and refreshing pilsner style beer can be a God-send on a 100+ degree summer day in Texas.
Having now lived in the great state of Texas for a little over six years, Real Ale Brewing has cemented itself as one of my favorite breweries. From the first time I tried their Fireman's Four, I have been pleasantly surprised by each of their beers. Devil's Backbone, a tripel, is quite possibly the best of a great cast of beers from this Blanco based brewery.
Well, another month has come and gone and 2017 is passing in the blink of an eye. In the month of July, we reviewed 15 beers. It's time to rank them from worst to first! Starting with number 15:
In response to my previous review of Shiner Light Blonde, I was advised to try St Arnold 5 O'Clock Pils. What I enjoyed about Shiner's offering is the improved depth and flavor profile compared to the traditional American lagers such as Bud Light, Miller Lite and Coors Light.
As we come to the end of July, it may seem as though Summer is almost through. But here in South Texas, we are just starting to hit our stride of 100 + degree days. Summer sun means pools, beaches, rivers, barbecues and trying anything possible to beat the heat. Given the time of year, I took it upon myself to collect (and drink) a number of breweries' seasonal offerings, in the name of science. In this Battle of the Beers, I will be ranking these brews from worst to first.
New Belgium has developed a reputation for wonderful beer. Between its well known Fat Tire Ale, Voodoo Ranger IPA and plethora of other interesting beers, the brewery has developed its fans. To this point, I have not been one.
Oh Trader Joe's, the mecca for upper-middle class citizens looking for off-brand, high quality edible products. While I had never shopped here before, I knew many people who seemingly lived and died by the products available at the Californian retailer. And honestly, I wouldn't ever have thought to visit Trader Joe's and evaluate its beer offerings until I read this. Intrigued by Trader Joe's surprisingly deep roster of in-house brew, I decided to stop by and see what the fuss was about.
Sgt. Suds 