Days of the Beer, February 1

The beer for today is Great Divide St. Bridget's Porter.

Today is the Roman Catholic Feast Day of Saint Brigid of Kildare, also known as Brigid of Ireland.

Brigid lived from 451 to 525. She was a nun, abbess, and founder of several convents. Along with Patrick and Columba, she is one of Ireland's patron saints.

There are several stories that go with Brigid. Her father was a pagan, and named her after their goddess of fire. At an early age, she converted to christianity, and started her charity work, basically giving away the family fortune to the needy. She wanted to join a convent, and when she gave away her fathers jewel encrusted sword to a leper, he sent her away.

Another story was that she founded an Abbey in Kildare that was for both nuns and monks. At one point she was receiving the blessing as the Abbess from St. Mel. He accidentally read her the rite of consecration of a bishop, which cannot be rescinded, so she had the authority of a bishop from that point on.

Of course, the most famous story of St. Brigid was that she could turn her bathwater into beer. In The Life of St Brigid the Virgin:

On another extraordinary occasion, this venerable Brigid was asked by some lepers for beer, but had none. She noticed water that had been prepared for baths. She blessed it, in the goodness of her abiding faith, and transformed it into the best beer, which she drew copiously for the thirsty. It was indeed He Who turned water into wine in Cana of Galilee Who turned water into beer here, through this most blessed woman’s faith.

As to the beer:

Great Divide Brewing company is located in Denver Colorado.

St. Bridget, a legendary Irish saint, created a sensation by turning her bathwater into beer. What better way to celebrate her worthy miracle than with our zymurgistic tribute to her feat: St. Bridget’s Porter. St. Bridget’s is a smooth and elegant brown porter. Brimming with coffee and chocolate characteristics from dark barley malts, St. Bridget’s is carefully hopped to provide the perfect complement to its malty robustness. This beer is a “must have” beer for all porter lovers.

This beer is probably available where ever Great Divide beers are. It is in several of the better bars in Champaign Urbana. It has won several awards and is highly rated on both Beer Advocate and Rate Beer.

So, for the woman who turned water into beer, go have a St. Bridget's Porter.

Some info from Zythophile.

Days of the Beer, January 31

The beer for today is Lakefront Bridge Burner Strong Ale.

On January 31, 1846, the cities of Juneautown and Kilbourntown united as the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This happened as a result of the Milwaukee Bridge War, that was a conflict between the two regions.

Juneautown (east-side) and Kilbourntown (west-side) had developed quite a rivalry, most of it was because of Kilbourntown's founder, Byron kilbourn. He had tried to isolate Juneautown to make it more dependent on Kilbourntown. In 1840, the state legislature determined the ferry system on the Milwaukee River was inadequate, and ordered construction of a bridge. Kilbourn was against this, and the two towns argued over funding for the bridge. This led to Kilbourn destroying part of the bridge in 1845.

It was in the aftermath of the Bridge War, that led to the unification as the city.

As to the beer:

Lakefront Brewery is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It opened in 1987 and is located on the Milwaukee River.

Made with three styles of fresh American hops and fruity ale yeast that requires greater fermentation, it finishes with a dark amber appearance, spicy hop flavor and bold, malty backbone. The punch this potent brew packs reminds us all that when you want to make a point, you're better off making a statement.

The beer started out as a release for a beer festival, but there are plans to make it a year round brew.

Interestingly, the Juneau Avenue and Kilbourn Avenue bridges in Milwaukee, are about a quarter mile away from each other.

So, for the Bridge War, that ultimately resulted in the founding of Milwaukee, have a Bridge Burner.

Days of the Beer, January 30

The beer for today is BridgePort Ropewalk Amber Ale.

On January 30, 1962, two members of the high-wire act, the Flying Wallendas, were killed when their seven-person pyramid collapsed during a performance in Detroit, Michigan.

The Flying Wallendas got their name from a performance in Akron, Ohio, when the group all fell off the wire, and none were hurt. The next day, a reporter was quoted in a newspaper as saying "The Wallendas fell so gracefully that it seemed as if they were flying"; and that's how the name The Flying Wallendas came to be. Priot to that, they were known as The Great Wallendas.

In the 1962 incident, the group was performing the seven-person chair pyramid. The front man faltered and the pyramid collapsed. Three men fell to the ground, killing Richard Faughnan (Karl Wallenda's son-in-law) and Karl's nephew Dieter Schepp. Karl injured his pelvis, and his adopted son, Mario, was paralyzed from the waist down.

The Wallendas are famous for performing without a net. Their first performance without was at the Madison Square Garden, in 1928, when their net had been lost during travel.

The Wallendas still perform, with most of the performers being grandchildren of the founder, Karl Wallenda.

As to the beer:

BridgePort Brewing is located in Portland, Oregon.

Ropewalk is a mellow, malt-driven amber that dances a subtly sweet line. The balance of Crystal malt with a subtle dose of Northwest hops delivers a refreshing ale that makes for a great session beer. Originally brewed to mark our 20th anniversary, Ropewalk – which literally means “a long narrow building where rope is made” – is a tribute to our building’s roots as a rope factory, while also celebrating feats of daring everywhere.

The beer comes in at 5.6% ABV. Don't drink too many of these and try to walk a straight line.

So, for the Flying Wallendas who didn't make it off the ropewalk, have a BridgePort Ropewalk.

Days of the Beer, January 29

The beer for today is Great Lakes Holy Moses White Ale.

On January 29, 1754, Moses Cleaveland was born in Canterbury, Connecticut. Moses was a lawyer, politician, soldier and surveyor, who founded the city of Cleveland, Ohio in 1796.

Moses was a shareholder of the Connecticut Land Company, that purchased land in northeastern Ohio. They asked him in May 1796 to lead a survey of the purchases. On July 22, the party of about 50 people, landed at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River. When he climbed the bank, he saw a plain covered with forest, and thought it would be a good site for a city.

He surveyed the town into lots, and it was named Cleaveland, in his honor. After the expedition and survey, he went back to Connecticut and died November 16, 1806; never returning to Ohio or his city.

The town was basically renamed in 1830, when the first newspaper, the "Cleveland Advertiser" was established. The name Cleaveland was too long to fit on the masthead, so he dropped the "A".

As to the beer:

Great Lakes Brewing Company is located in Cleveland, Ohio. Holy Moses is a Belgian Wit style beer.

A complex and heavily aromatic ale with fruit, spice and other floral characteristics. Brewed with unmalted wheat and oats. 30 IBU.

The beer comes in at 5.4% ABV. Holy Moses used to be a year round offering, but has since stopped being that.

For the man who founded Cleveland, have a Holy Moses White Ale.

Days of the Beer, January 28

The beer for today is The Twisted Hop Challenger.

On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart after liftoff killing all seven astronauts on board.

The disaster occurred at 11:39 a.m EST. Disintegration began 73 seconds into the flight after an O-ring seal in the right solid rocket booster failed at liftoff. That failure allowed a flare to reach the external fuel tank.

The crew compartment and other vehicle fragments were recovered from the ocean floor after a long search and recovery operation.

The event was viewed live due to Christa McAuliffe, the first member of the Teacher in Space Project. (I know I was watching it in Biology class my freshmen year in high school. )

As to the beer:

The Twisted Hop is a brewery that produces traditional English style cask conditioned ales in Christchurch, New Zealand.

A well hopped and full bodied special bitter.

The beer comes in at 5% ABV.

Challenger is the name of a style of hops. It has an Alpha Acid content of 6.5 - 8.5%. It is commonly used in ESB's, Barley Wine's, Brown's, and Porter's. It was bred in England to be resistant to downy and powdery mildew. It is a dual-purpose hops and can be used for both bittering and aroma.

So, for the seven members of the Challenger disaster, have a Challenger beer.

Days of the Beer, January 27

The beer for today is Stone 06.06.06 Vertical Epic.

On January 27, 1968, Michael Allan Patton was born in Eureka, California. Patton is a singer, songwriter, composer and instrumentalist, best known as the lead singer of the band Faith No More from 1988 to 1998. He has also been the lead vocalist for Mr. bungle, Tomahawk, Lovage, Fantômas, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and Peeping Tom.

With Patton at the lead, Faith No More released four albums, The Real Thing, Angel Dust, King for a Day... Fool for a Lifetime, and Album of the Year. The Real Thing was the bands biggest commercial success. It had the song Epic.

As to the beer:

Stone Brewing Company is located in Escondido, California. Which is a short 748 mile drive from Eureka.

APPEARANCE: Dark brown to black with a tan head. AROMA: Fruity, phenolic yeast notes with dark malt roastiness. FLAVOR: Clove, smooth roasted malt, mild spiciness, and some hop bitterness. A dry finish with apparent alcohol. PALATE: Medium to full-bodied, good carbonation…no astringency. OVERALL: Very full and complex…not sure how it will develop.

So, for Mike Patton, grab yourself an Epic Ale.

Beer Review, Empyrean LunaSea ESB & Third Stone Brown

Friday and Saturday, I finally had the time to sit down and give my attention to the final two brews sent to me by Bill.

The last two were the LunaSea ESB, and the Third Stone Brown.

Friday night, during Battlestar Galactica, I had the Luna Sea. This one poured a golden brown, and had a head that seemed to dissipate rather quickly. It smelled a little hoppy, along with some sugary malt. It felt rather thinnish, but was effervescent beyond what would be expected from the thin head.

Originally, it tasted bitter, but wasn't too sweet. There was a bit of back of tongue bite of bitterness. As it warmed, through the somewhat disappointing episode of BSG, the hops started releasing more flavors. It went from just a slight bitter flavor, to releasing some pleasant citrus notes. It wasn't quite an orange juice, but it did have a nice citric acid feel to it.

It was a pretty good ESB. This could easily be a gateway beer. I've long thought that ESB's and some other ambers make really good conversion beers. (Kriddy's first few beers that she really enjoyed were along the same line as this beer; Birra Moretti La Rossa, and Jack of the Wood Greenman Ales (Asheville, NC) ESB.) This one was an easy to drink beer, at 6.3% ABV, it's not gonna get you totally wasted real quick, it'd take some serious pounding to get completely FUBAR.

Our brewer’s pride and joy, that’s why we call it “Extra Special.” Big, sweet, caramel and biscuit flavors are delicately balanced with crisp, cedary, Noble hops.

Saturday's geek-fest consisted of Doctor Who, on BBC-America. The two episodes on Saturday were Midnight, followed by Turn Left. I had the final beer of the set with these. The last one was Third Stone Brown.

This one was dark brown, the color of Coca-Cola. It had very little head, that stuck around. It smelled a little grapey, like grape gum. It had a medium thickness, nowhere near milk, but thicker than a soda.

The taste initially was grape or raisin. I didn't get as much malty ... um... brown-ness as I would have hoped; at least not at first. As it warmed, more of the malt profile emerged, but I was still getting a little of the grape. Scott thought it tasted like a homebrew (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). I got a bit of that characteristic from it as well, just something about it reminded me of brewing on my stove. The hops in it weren't really noticeable. Wow, just looked up the hops used in this, Tettnanger and Summit. Tett has an AAU of around 3.5-4.5%, whereas the Summit has 17 -19%. Jeebus, use enough Summit, and you'll have an IBU bomb. They must not use a whole lot of the Summit, as the hops profile wasn't that strong.

Of the three beers, the Vanilla Porter would probably be my favorite. It would be followed closely by the ESB. The brown was good, but it wasn't the brown for me.

Again, thanks to Bill for the care package from Nebraska.

*note* Bill, if you are going to be shipping products like this again in the future, do NOT ship it through the USPS.

Other items, such as alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor), are not considered hazardous but are prohibited and boxes displaying such markings are also prohibited.

Penalties for shipping prohibited substances can include fines, or imprisonment.

That's just for the USPS. UPS, Fedex... aren't federal, they may have rules against shipping things, but they (probably) can't send you to jail for shipping beer.

If a shipment does not comply with all FedEx requirements and applicable federal, state or local laws, FedEx reserves the right to refuse tender of the shipment, withhold the shipment from delivery, return the shipment to the shipper at the shipper’s expense or destroy it, at the sole discretion of FedEx.

That's a better option than jail.

Again, thanks. If you make it out here, or if I head west, I'll let you know, and we'll meet up for some beer.

Days of the Beer, January 26

The beer for today is Pacific Coast Gray Whale Ale.

On January 26, 2004, in Tainan City, Taiwan, a buildup of gas inside a decomposing sperm whale, measuring more than 55 feet long and weighing 50 tons, caused the whale to explode!

The explosion was reported to have splattered blood and whale guts over surrounding shop-fronts, bystanders, and cars.

As to the beer:

Pacific Coast Brewing is located in Oakland, California.

Pacific Coast Gray Whale Ale: Our house pale ale,medium body, amber, well balanced bitterness and sweetness. Bronze medal winner at the 1991 Great American Beer Festival.

I'm not sure if this beer would be a flavor explosion in your mouth, but, for the exploding whale of 2004, have yourself a Gray Whale Ale.

Days of the Beer, January 25

The beer for today is Goose Island Robert Burns Scottish Ale.

On January 25, 1759, Robert Burns was born. Burns is known as Rabbie Burns, Scotland's favourite son, the Ploughman Poet, the Bard of Ayrshire, and also as The Bard. Burns was a poet and lyricist. He is regarded as the national poet of Scotland.

His birthday is basically a national holiday in Scotland. January 25 is celebrated with Burns suppers around the world. A Burns supper may be formal or informal. Each informal supper will have some things in common, haggis, Scotch whisky and a poem or tow. Formal dinners have a standard format.

Burns died July 21, 1796, as a result of complications from a dental extraction. Others claimed it was because of his intempreance.

Burns poems and songs included, A Red, Red Rose; A Man's A Man for A' That; To a Louse; To a Mouse; The Battle of Sherramuir; Tam O'Shanter; Ae Fond Kiss; and Auld Lang Syne.

As to the beer:

Goose Island has two brewpubs in the Chicago area, Wrigleyville and Clybourn.

If you like a Single Malt Scotch from the Island of Islay, you’ll love our Scottish Ale. Brewed with Pale, Crystal and Peat smoked malt for the earthy aroma of a Scottish bog, Robert Burns Scottish Ale celebrates the poet’s birth with style.

This one comes in at 6.6% ABV. It is served in a pint glass for $6. It is currently on draft at the Clybourn location (I'm not sure of wrigley).

There are several other breweries that produce a Robert Burns beer including Belhaven and Barleys in Columbus, Ohio.

So, for Robert Burns, raise a glass of Scottish Ale, and humm a bar or two of Auld Lang Syne, of course that will probably piss off the person next to you, since they won't be able to get the song out of their head for a day or so.

Schlafly, the Saint Louis Brewery, will be hosting a Burns night.

BURNS' NIGHT 2009
Sunday, January 25, 5:00-10:00 p.m
The Schlafly Tap Room

(wow, I did this 2 years ago. But Schlafly is again having a Burns night from 5-10 pm. )

(In CU, Seven Saints is having an informal Burns night. )

Days of the Beer, January 24

The beer for today is Mikkeller Big Worse Barley Wine.

January 24 has been dubbed the worst day of the year. Accorking to Dr. Cliff Arnall, a U.K. psychologist, Jan. 24 is the "most depressing day of the year."

Arnall specializes in seasonal disorders, and created a formula that takes into account numerous feelings to devise peoples' lowest point. Using his formula, he pinpointed today as the worst day.

Even though the days get longer after the solstice, weather systems take hold in January, bringing low, dark clouds to Britain (and the rest of the world, it seems). Most people break their resolutions six to seven days into the new year, and by now, even those who've stuck it out longer have fallen off the wagon. Also, leftover holiday cheer has faded.

As to the beer:

Mikkeller is the gypsy brewery currently run by Mikkel Borg Bjergsø.

Big Worse is the long awaited big brother of the small test brew Big Bad Barley Wine. The idea behind Big Worse is still to make a simple yet heavy barley wine - just like it’s smaller brother. But this time both the alcohol and bitterness has been pumped up! Big Worse is both thick and sweet and is the perfect beer for desserts. Enjoy it now or keep it for many years. Best stored dark and at cellar temperature.

Ingredients :
Water, malt (pils and caramunich), candy sugar, hops (nugget, cascade and centennial) and ale yeast.

The beer comes in at 12% ABV. So it's strong enough to take away your winter blues, on this, the WORST day of the year.

Days of the Beer, January 23

The beer for today is Flossmoor Station Killer Kapowski.

On January 23, 1974, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen was born. Tiffani is best known for her roles as Valerie Malone in Beverly Hills, 90210; and as Kelly Kapowski in Saved by the Bell.

She was born in Long Beach, California. He uncle Roger Ernest attended college with Steven Spielberg and suggested to her, that she enter show business.

In 1987, Thiessen was crowned Miss Junior America. She won Teen magazine's "Great Model Search" in 1988. From 1989 to 1994, she played Kelly Kapowski on both Saved by the Bell, and Saved by the Bell: The College Years.

As to the beer:

Killer Kapowski is the bottled version of Flossmoor Station's Killer Kowalski. Flossmoor Station decided to bottle their Baltic Porter, and they submitted the label for government approval. The government wanted to ensure that Flossmoor had the rights to the name (apparently it only matters for bottle labels) and asked that they change it. Florrmoor changed the name to Killer Kapowski.

Our deep, dark, full-bodied lager. A slightly bittersweet chocolate aroma with a malty body that hints at dark fruits. It’s complex and very enjoyable with a touch of roast finish. This may be the best beer we make all year long. The bottled version is called Killer Kapowski.

If you look at the label, it has a wrestling ring on it, which makes more sense for the Killer Kowalski name, but everyone knows the beer is Killer Kowalski, so why really worry about it.

I had Killer Kowalski on March 29, 2008; and will be picking up a bottle or two of this in the near future. The Killer Kapowski release date is set for Feb 7, at 1 p.m. So, you can't have it yet. It will be sold for $10 a bottle.

Since you have to wait until Feburary 7, go out to Flossmoor and have a Killer Kowalski (on draft; if it is on draft now), and think of all the good times that you had watching Saved by the Bell.

Yes, this is the second girl from Saved by the Bell to have a beer day.

Days of the Beer, January 22

The beer for today is North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout.

On January 22, 1869, Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin, was born. Rasputin was a Russian mystic who had influence over Tsar Nicholas II, his wife Tsaritsa Alexandra, and their son Tsarevich Alexei. Rasputin has been called the "Mad Monk", others believed him to be a psychic and a faith healer.

Rasputin was alleged to be a member of a banned Christian sect called the khlysty. One of the cooler parts of the khlysts was that they believed the only way to get to know God, was to have him forgive you. Only after a man had sinned greatly could he be truly repentant and pleasing to God. Men and women who tried to lead virtuous lives pride themselves on their virtue.

Rasputin died December 29 (December 16 old style calendar), 1916. He was murded by several people. He was poisoned by red wine laced with a massive amount of cyanide (which failed). He was shot in the back (which failed). He was then shot three more times in the back (which failed). He was then clubbed into submission and thrown into an icy river. Three days later, his body was recovered, and the cause of the death was drowning, his arms were found in an upright position, as though he tried to claw his way out from under the ice.

As to the beer:

North Coast Brewing Company is located in Fort Bragg, California.

A rich, intense brew with a robust palate, a fruity nose and a warming finish. Very complex.

The beer is in the 100th percentile on Ratebeer, and is currently number 90 on the Beer Advocate top 100 list.

Old Rasputin is available in most places in Champaign-Urbana. It is at Crane Alley in bottles, is listed as being on draft at Radio Maria, and is available at Friar Tucks in four packs.


On a side note. Rasputin was alleged to have a massive penis. It is claimed that his killers castrated him and a maid found the organ later. Rumor has it that she kept it, and it was acquired by some female Russian expatriates living in Paris. Rasputin's daughter heard about it, and had it returned to her; she kept it until she died in 1977. The penis and other items were purchased at a flea market. It was going to be auctioned off but officials discovered the item was a sea cucumber or geoduck.

Another item claiming to be Rasputin's penis is a 13 inch long item that is held in the Russian museum of erotica in St. Petersburg, Russia. This item is also not able to be verified as being the Mad Monk's Member.

So, for Rasputin, go out and have yourself a HUGE glass of North Coast's Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout.

Days of the Beer, January 21

The beer for today is Browning's Louis XVI Guillotine ESB.

On January 21, 1793, Louis XVI, or Louis-Auguste de France, was beheaded. Louis was arrested on August 13, 1792 for High Treason and Crimes against the State. On January 15, 1793, the National Convention voted 693-0 guilty. The next day, 361 members voted for immediate death, 288 against death, and 72 for death... but later.

On Monday, January 21 1793, Citoyen Louis Capet, was guillotined in front of a cheering crowd. As he mounted the scaffold, he attempted a speech where he asserted his innocence and pardoned those responsible for his death. His speech was cut off by a drum roll. His head was then cut off... but not successfully on the first try.

As to the beer:

Browning's Brewery is located across the street from Slugger Field in Louisville, Kentucky.

In honor of Louisville's name sake,Louis the XVI Guillotine ESB is a medium bodied copper colored ale. Each batch uses a different single variety of hops to impart assertive bitterness and a mild aroma. So raise an extra pint of this special ale to Louis' bitter end.

So for Louis XVI getting the guillotine, have Browning's Guillotine ESB.

I had this beer on July 25 last year, at the brewery/brewpub. Kridz and I stopped there on our way to Asheville for Bele Chere.

Beer Review, Empyrean Dark Side Vanilla Porter

On Friday, I took the day off because I was gonna stay at Kridz and watch Battlestar Galactica all day (Sci-fi had a 14 hour marathon the ended with the new episode). Coincidentally, a box of beer showed up there that day.

This beer was sent from Bill L, a blog reader from Lincoln, Nebraska. Bill had asked if I had had any of the beer from Empyrean before. I hadn't so he offered to send me some of their beers.

Empyrean Brewing Company is Nebraska's oldest brewpub. They produce 7 full time beers, and have several seasonal beers. Bill sent me the Dark Side Vanilla Porter, Third Stone Brown, and LunaSea ESB.

Last night, I was finally able to devote some time to drinking (wow, how difficult my life must be to have to find time to drink); well it was just time to give the beer my full attention; If a guy is gonna send me beer, I'm not gonna just give it my half assed attention.

This one poured opaque. It wasn't black, but a very dark brown. There was a light brown, thin fizzy head. It seemed to have the same head the whole time, as though some bubbles came up from the bottom. At the end of the pour, it looked like some vanilla bean grounds came out of the bottle. It smelled rather malty, it also had a faint vanilla smell, and possibly some cherry. I had expected a stronger vanilla smell, but the beer was rather cold, so that probably held the nose in at first. It felt highly effervescent (remember the bubbles that came up from the bottom). It had a medium thickness, it wasn't quite milky, it reminded me of a quality rootbeer.

It started out with a strong malty flavor, with some vanilla. It had a decent slight bitterness and had some cherry (which I thought was odd; maybe I was just in a cherry mood). As the geer got lower in the glass, it seemed to have a slight coffee ground flavor to it, like a chocolate covered espresso bean, with a dash of vanilla. Ok, more like the bits that are left over in the bag of chocolate covered espresso beans, than the entire bean itself.

Overall, it was a pretty good beer. It wasn't as vanilla as I had expected, but it was good none-the-less. It could easily have become a vanilla bomb. Were this to be a specialty beer, I'd expect that, but since it's an everyday offering, the hints of vanilla probably make it more palatable. It reminded me of Michelob Winter's Bourbon Cask Ale.

Truly a one-of-a-kind. We balance coffee-like, dark roasted malts with the sweet, seductive flavor of vanilla beans. The result? A deliciously unique flavor.

Malts: 2-Row, Carastan, Chocolate, Aromatic
Hops: Challenger, Summit
Yeast: Ale
Other: Madagascar Vanilla Beans, Natural Vanilla Extract
Origianl Gravity: 14.5
IBUs: 23
Alcohol: 5.7% abv

Thanks for the beer Bill, I'll probably be able to get to the next one on Thursday.

If anyone else wants to send me beer...

Days of the Beer, January 20

The beer for today is Ommegang Inauguration Ale 2009.

Today, January 20, 2009, is the Inauguration of President Barack Obama (oddly, blogger's dictionary doesn't have his name in it yet).

Obama will be/is the 44th President of the United States. He won the presidency with 53% of the popular vote.

Obama will be sworn in at noon eastern time.

As to the beer:

Brewery Ommegang is located in Cooperstown, New York.

The TTB won’t let us call the beer Obamagang on the keg label. So it will be known legally as Inauguration Ale 2009, but the tap handles will be more . . . um . . . direct. The style lies between a porter and stout, with a bit of Kriek and a touch of chocolate blended in. It will be on draft only, beginning with the inauguration – in limited areas including DC, NYC, Syracuse, Philly, Chicago and Boston. We will donate a percentage of sales to charities in the respective cities where the beer is sold, and we’ve asked our distributors to match our donations and pick the local charities. (Also please note that the beer is not an endorsement of Obama.)

So, if you live around Washington D.C., New York, Syracuse, Philadelphia, Chicago, or Boston, go out and find yourself one of these beers. If you aren't in that area, there are several other beers you could drink. Bruisin Ales in Asheville, North Carolina has put together a list of some that you might consider.

So, for the new President, have yourself a beer. Regardless of is you supported him, he's your president now, so either have one in celebration, or one to drown your sorrows.

Here's hoping the next four years are better than the last 8 (at least in my opinion; individual results may vary).

Beers for Smart@ss. #7. Four Peaks Hop Knot

Michael, over at Beer Rant, was nice enough to have a beer for one of my friends who cannot consume alcohol until July.

He had a Four Peaks Hop Knot.

Michael, is also known as Smitty, on the Aleuminati.

So, that's just great, Smart@ss is now having beers drank in his honor, that I haven't even had yet!

Days of the Beer, January 19

The beer for today is New Holland The Poet.

On January 19, 1809, Edgar Allan Poe was born. Poe was a poet, short-story writer, editor and literary critic. He is considered to be the inventor of the detective-fiction genre. He is also credited with contributing to the emerging science fiction genre. He was the first well-known American write to try to earn a living through writing alone, which resulted in a financially difficult life and career.

Poe was born in Boston. He died October 7, 1849 in Baltimore. The cause of his death is unknown, but has been attributed to several things, alcohol, brain congestion, cholera, drugs, heart disease, rabies, suicide, and tuberculosis, among other things.

His poems include "Annabel Lee", Lenore", and of course, "The Raven".

His short stories include "The Fall of the House of Usher", The Murders in the Rue Morgue", "The Pit and the Pendulum", "The Masque of the Red Death", and "The Tell-Tale Heart".

As to the beer:

New Holland Brewing Company is located in Holland, Michigan.

This stout is sheer beer poetry. Let it warm to about 45 F and pour it into a glass to fully experience its rich, roasty flavors and hints of coffee and chocolate. One glass and you'll agree: The Poet is truly a rich, creamy brew of epic proportions.

I've had several different version of this beer. Some older bottles say it's a stout, others say it's an oatmeal stout. The beer is available locally at Jupiters at the Crossing, as well as at Friar Tucks.

So, for Edgar Allan Poe, have a Poet.

Days of the Beer, January 18

The beer for today is Moortgat Duvel.

On January 18, 1782, Daniel Webster was born. Webster was an American statesman before the American Civil War (Antebellum Period).

Webster was very nationalistic and articulate, which led him to become one of the most famous orators and an influential Whig leader.

Webster's "Reply to Hayne" in 1830 is regarded as "the most eloquent speech ever delivered in Congress."

Webster ran for president three times, but all failed. He died October 24, 1852 after falling from his horse and suffering a blow to the head. This was complicated by cirrhosis of the liver. He was well known for his debt, and his gambling and alcohol.

"The Devil and Daniel Webster" is a short story by Stephen Vincent Benet. It is a retelling of the Faust tale. It was published in 1937. In it, Webster defends a New Hampshire farmer who sells his soul to the devil.

As to the beer:

Brouwerij Moortgat is located in Breendonk-Puurs, Belgium. They produce several beer, including the Maredsous line, Duvel and St. Sebastiaan.

Four generations of the Moortgat family have brought together Pilsner malts, Bohemian hops, and a unique yeast strain to create this intense, aromatic and beguiling ale. This Belgian favorite is best enjoyed chilled (40 - 50 F) with discerning friends or good-looking strangers.

So, make today the Duvel and Daniel Webster.

Days of the Beer, January 17

The beer for today is De Proefbrouwerij Captain Cooker.

On January 17, 1773, Captain James Cook and his crew became the first Europeans to sail below the Antarctic Circle.

This crossing was part of Cooks second voyage, which lasted from 1772 to 1775. Cook was there in search of Terra Australis, a continent that supposedly lied in the southern hemisphere. Earlier it was assumed that there had to be another large continent in the south to counter-balance the large land masses in the north. On his first voyage, Cook had charted much of New Zealand and what would later be named Australia.

On his second trip, he commanded HMS Resolution. His expedition (along with another ship) circumnavigated the globe. Cook nearly encountered the mainland of Antarctica, but turned north towards Tahiti to resupply. He then turned south again to try to find the mythical continent.

As to the beer:

De Proef is based in western Flanders, Belgium. It's name is the nickname of brewmaster Dirk Naudts "the Prof".

A truly unique beer combining the best brewing traditions of Belgium with the natural goodness of manuka leaves, fresh picked from the native forests of New Zealand. When Cpt. James Cook first landed in New Zealand over 200 years ago, he brewed a beer using the leaves of the manuka tree in a quest to protect the health of his crew from vitamin C deficiency. Little did he know that the indigenous Maori people had been using manuka for centuries for its health giving properties. In 1996 the Mussel Inn refined Cook's original recipe and has since been harvesting fresh manuka from the surrounding hills to produce a beer of unique flavour and quality. Today, the same beer is being brewed in Belgium using the best of its brewing techniques and the same manuka leaves from New Zealand.

So, for Captain Cook crossing the Antarctic Circle, have a De Proef Captain Cooker.

Days of the Beer, January 16

The beer for today is Twains Billiards and Tap Twains Temperent Temperance Mild.

On January 16, 1919, the United States ratified the Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, authorizing Prohibition in the United States that began January 16, 1920.

The 18th Amendment was proposed on December 18, 1917. It was proposed by the United States Senate, following pressure from members of the temperance movement.

The temperance movement believed that no one should be able to drink. Prior to the passing of the amendment, there were more than 20 Temperance organizations, these included the American Temperance Societ, the Anti-Saloon League, the Sons of Temperance, and the Prohibition Party.

Some of the more prominent temperance leaders were Carrie Nation, Billy Sunday, James Black, and Wayne Wheeler.

The Eighteenth Amendment was repealed with the ratification of the Twenty-first Amendment, on December 5, 1933.

As to the beer:

Twain's Billiards and Tap is located in Decatur, Georgia. They've been open since 1996, and have brewed their own beer since November 2006. They are a brewpub, restaurant, and pool hall.

This session ale is aptly named. Beautiful amber color with a light nose, caramel flavors balance with subtle hops. 4.5% ABV

"Temperate temperance is best. Intemperate temperance injures the cause of temperance, while temperate temperance helps it in its fight against intemperate intemperance. Fanatics will never learn that, though it be written in letters of gold across the sky." Notebook, 1896

So, for the Temperance Movement, raise your glass to their success and thankfully their previous failure.



*Addendum*

As you are drinking, think about the influence that the New Dry's are having on today's society.

Think about the influence that MADD is having in pushing legislation through states.

The Southern Baptist Convention will not allow delegates who drink.

RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Greensboro, North Carolina, June 13-14, 2006, express our total opposition to the manufacturing, advertising, distributing, and consuming of alcoholic beverages; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge that no one be elected to serve as a trustee or member of any entity or committee of the Southern Baptist Convention that is a user of alcoholic beverages.

RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to take an active role in supporting legislation that is intended to curb alcohol use in our communities and nation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to be actively involved in educating students and adults concerning the destructive nature of alcoholic beverages; and be it finally

RESOLVED, That we commend organizations and ministries that treat alcohol-related problems from a biblical perspective and promote abstinence and encourage local churches to begin and/or support such biblically-based ministries.

Jesus wouldn't be welcome at a Southern Baptist Church.

Beware the New Dry's. They want to remove your freedom to drink, even in your own home. Fear mongering is their biggest weapon.

Beers for Smart@ss #2. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

The second beer consumed for Smart@ss was a Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. Were he able to drink alcohol, last night he would have enjoyed this hoppy beer.

The beer he would have had would have been about 5.2% ABV. It would have been a pretty dark gold to light brown color. It would have had a nice malt thickness to it, along with a good bitter kick.

I'm guessing he would have probably enjoyed it. It would probably go well with a Ribeye Steak Sammich from Billy Barooz, but I don't know if he needs anyone to eat steak sammiches for him. If he does, I'm also his man for that!

He's mentioned to me that his winter go-to beer is Leinenkugel Berry-Weiss, I'm not really wanting to drink that one, so if someone wants to have one of those and write up how much he would have really liked that beer, let me know when you are available to drink it, and we'll schedule a day for you.

Thanks
V

Days of the Beer, January 15

The beer for today is Titletown Brewing Bamberg Brew.

On January 15, 1967, the first Super Bowl was played in Los Angeles, California. The first game pitted the champion of the NFL, the Green Bay Packers, versus the champion of the AFL, the Kansas City Chiefs.

Green Bay won the game 35-10. Bart Starr was named the game MVP.

The game originated as part of the merger agreement between the NFL and the AFL. The tow leagues merged in 1966. As part of the conditions, the each leagues champion would meet to determine the "world champion of football".

The game got it's name from Kansas City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt who jokingly referred to the game as the "Super Bowl" after seeing his children playing with a Super Ball.

The Packers won the next Super Bowl, defeating the Oakland Raiders. Again, Bart Starr was the MVP. Green Bay had won NFL championships in '61, '62, and '65, and the city earned the nickname, "Title Town".

As to the beer:

Titletown Brewing Company is located in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Bamberg is considered a Rauchbier, or smoked beer.

We brewed this malty brown lager from eight diverse malts, including German beechwood smoked malt, English amber malt, and Wisconsin caramel malt. The result is a rich, smooth beer whose light smoky flavor enhances many foods.

So, for the first Super Bowl, in which the Kansas City Chiefs got smoked by the Packers, have a Titletown Bamberg Brew.

Beers for Smart@ss

At the top of this page, you'll see a little line that says, "I drink beer... so you don't have to". Well, one of my friends, can't drink beer, so someone's gotta do it for him.

So, until he can consume alcohol again in July, I'll be drinking a beer for him. I'm that nice of a guy.

The first Beer for Smart@ss was a Hennepin. I really enjoyed drinking this one for him.

This hoppy, farmhouse style ale has a champagne like effervescence with a crisp but light on the tongue finish. Similar to the Belgian Saison style , this beer serves well as an aperitif. Hennepin has a majestic golden hue. The style is called Grisette or farm house and is considered to be in the domain of the Belgian Saisons.

It definitely had a little bit of that farmhouse funkiness too it, nothing too overpowering, but was just the right amount of ... um... that weird flavor.

This will be a recurring segment on the vbg-log, so, if anyone else wants to have a drink for smart@ss, just let me know.

V

Days of the Beer, January 14

The beer for today is Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA.

On January 14, 1919, Andrew Aitken Rooney was born. "Andy" is an American radio and television writer. He became most famous as a humorist and political commentator with his weekly broadcast A Few Minutes With Andy Rooney which has been part of the CBS News program 60 Minutes, since 1978.

Rooney was born in Albany, New York. He attended Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in August 1941. He wrote for Stars and Stripes in London during World War II. He joined CBS in 1949 as a writer. He continued writing until his 60 Minutes segment began.

As to the beer:

Dogfish Head Brewery is located in Milton, Delaware.

Our flagship beer. A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.' A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!

The beer checks in at 6% ABV and has 60 IBU. If Dogfish Head beers are available in your area, 60 Minute is most likely one of them.

Kridz and I visited Dogfish Head on October 24. Their tour is pretty good, and you'll get to see the huge wooden vessels that they age their beers in. The gift shop is nice (I got a hat, bag, keychain, and shirt) and you get to sample some of their beers. If you are on a trip to the east coast, and somehow wind up in Delaware, go take the brewery tour, but call ahead, space is limited. The brewpub is located in Rehobeth Beach and is just a short distance from the ocean. I've been to the Atlantic before, but never had the opportunity to drink as good of beers on the beaches in Maine, as I did just off the beach in Delaware.

So, for the man at the end of 60 Minutes, have a 60 Minute IPA.

Days of the Beer, January 13

The beer for today is Watch City Brewing Company Hops Explosion IPA.

On January 13, 1968, Traci Bingham was born. On January 13, 1972, Nicole Eggert was born.

Bingham was best known for her role as Jordan Tate on Baywatch, between 1996 and 1998. Eggert was on Baywatch from 1992, to 1994.

As to the beer:

Watch City Brewing Company is located in Waltham, Massachusetts. They've been around since 1996.

HOPS EXPLOSION IPA Slightly darker and more body than Totem, Hops lives up to name with a powerful conflagration of hop flavor. This IPA would keep on interplanetary expeditions. For all of its hop persona it remains a balanced beer, with an underlying malt-sweetness to help soften the Hop impact.
1.056 S.G. ... 63 IBU's ... 6.2% ABV

Now time to get your knowledge on (although this may have been listed elsewhere in this blog)

Hops.

Hops is an ingredient in many "Natural Breast Enlargement" pills.

Used in the brewing of beer, hops contain a potent phytoestrogen called 8-prenylnaringenin which has 0.2-20% the potency of estradiol, the main human estrogen.

elsewhere on the webs...

Hops has also become notable, particularly in Europe, for having beneficial effects on the female endocrine system. This is due to it having a high content of flavonoids, a form of phtytoestrogens, and has led to it becoming a common ingredient in effective natural breast enhancement supplements. It has even been scientifically proven that taking hops alone will encourage breast development, some Doctors even claim drinking lots of beers which are high in hops will help to make breasts grow.

Hops can also help with irritable bowel syndrome and premature ejaculation, apparently.

So, for the two Baywatch girls who's birthday is today, have a Watch City Hops Explosion IPA. Then, think of how much BIGGER their boobs would be if they just would stop drinking water, and switch to drinking double and triple IPA's. Nicole Eggert wouldn't have had to have gotten the breast implants in 1993, and have them remove the next year... if only she knew about the wonders of hops.

Bar Review, It'll Do 2

Last night, Kridz and I went with one of her coworkers from the depotay (after the holiday partay) to It'll Do 2, 123 S. Mattis (in the Country Fair Shopping Center) Champaign.

It'll Do 2, was previously "Chiefs"which closed for some reason. Prior to that it was "Tommy G's" which also closed.

Many Many Many moons ago, my (then) Tuesday night pool team would have to play a game or two each session at Tommy G's. I didn't like that place, although there were some fond memories of when Beaird and I played pool with April, and with... damn, I can't remember her name, but she was awesome. Other than that (probably one night) every other time I was there, I didn't enjoy myself. There was the one time the guy I was playing put his hand on my neck because he didn't like something, oh yeah, he was playing barefoot at the time, and it's possible he was the manager/owner of the place.

The last time I was there, was with Meat, and Big Brad, and Donna. Meat's wife dropped me and him off, and then left due to some emotional reason, then Meat left, so Donna was nice enough to give me a ride home. I think some band was to be playing there that night, probably the Brat Pack. The beer I drank that night was a Goose Island 312, on draft... it was served in a frosty 22 oz mug. It seemed totally inappropriate.

It'll Do 2 (the first is in Arcola) just opened on Jan. 2. It looked the exact same as Chiefs. The difference I noted was the sign in the parking area had changed.

The beer selection, isn't really a selection. There was 312 on draft (still) and also Blue Moon. Then, there's the taps of Bud, Bud Light, Miller.... the list goes on. The bottle selection was similarly American Macro Lager based. There was a row of Guinness cans, along with Michelob, and I think a Dos Equis Amber.

Apparently Chiefs may have had some problems, and the new owner is trying to change things to prevent the same things. I heard him say that the first thing he did when he went in was to pull all the Rap and R&B out of the jukebox, so that may give you an idea to what the perceived problems were, and what he's trying to change the place into.

I'm not sure if they are trying to turn it into a "biker bar" but if he's got one that works, there's no reason to not try to do another.

The place used to have a greasy spoon kitchen, and I'm not sure if they are going to rev that back up again.

There are several pool tables, and if you get there early enough, the place will probably be rather quiet, if you just want a place to shoot. The last I was there, I remember the tables being $1 a rack, which is too expensive.

I'd compare this place to D.R. Diggers and the Phoenix. With some work, it might get up to a Boomerangs or maybe a Tumble Inn. Without an overhaul of the beer selection, and style of bar, it won't be Blind Pig, but then that's not what they are going for, at least I don't think.

It's not the bar for me. I feel uncomfortable there. Something about macro beer, country (nee... redneck) music, and screaming people just doesn't do it for me. Short of them magically having one of my most favoritest bands in the world play there, I won't be back.

But then, just because it's not the place for me, doesn't mean someone else won't like it. They may like it for the very reasons I don't. Ultimately, I felt rather beer snobbish there, I don't like feeling like a beer snob, but I was.

Funnily, the beer I ordered was PBR. A guy sitting at the bar commented that I was drinking rot gut (or something like that). So I struck up a beer conversation. (I don't mind PBR, and for the kitsch value, it's ok too) I asked if he'd tried the New Old Schlitz, and he said he didn't know about it. So we talked about the original recipe, and other stuff. That was one of the more interesting conversations I had that night, unless you count morphine, vicadin, muscle relaxers, a three day coma, hip degeneration...

Days of the Beer, January 12

The beer for today is New Glarus Unplugged Eisbock.

On January 12, 1967, Dr. James Bedford became the first person to be cryonically preserved with the intent of future resuscitation.

Bedford was a University of California psychology professor who had written several books on occupational counseling.

In June 1965, Ev Cooper's Life Extension Society offered to preserve one person for free, Bedford was accepted as the candidate. His body was frozen a few hours after he died of natural causes. His body was frozen by Robert Prehoda, Dr. Dante Brunol, and Robert Nelson. Nelson wrote a book titled We Froze the First Man.

His body was held in liquid nitrogen until 1982, then it was moved to Alcor Life Extension Foundation. His bydy was evaluated in May 1991, they think he's in good shape for being a dude-cicle.

Januaury 12 is "Bedford Day" among cryonic people.

As to the beer:

New Glarus Brewing Company is in New Glarus, Wisconsin.

This Eisbock was lagered a full year and then frozen to incomparable smoothness. This is a big and complex beer, suitable for laying down or consuming immediately, serve at 55 degrees Fahrenheit. A few times a year, we will cut Dan Carey loose to brew whatever he chooses, uncensored, uncut, UNPLUGGED. Always handcrafted, the bottle you hold is brewed for the adventurous soul. This is a very limited edition and we make no promises to ever brew this style again. Eisbock is the first of our Unplugged series of beers.

This beer is no longer made, but might make a comeback. On New Glarus website, Eisbock is listed as though it will be made again for release in November. Apparently, they pulled the recipe out of deep freeze.

So, unless you have a vintage 2002 bottle, you'll have to wait until November to get this again. But when you do, think of Bedford, and his frozen body, then wonder what his ABV might be now.

Days of the Beer, January 11

The beer for today is Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout.

It's MILK DAY!!!

On January 11, 1878, milk was first delivered in bottles. Prior to being delivered in bottles, milkmen filled customers' jugs.

The New York Dairy Company is credited with having the first factory that produced milk bottles.

As to the beer:

Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery is located in Farmville, North Carolina. They specialize in full flavored dark brews.

A traditional full-bodied stout brewed with lactose (milk sugar). The subtle sweetness imparted by the lactose balances the sharpness of the highly roasted grains which give this delicious beer its black color.

So, for the delivery of a milk bottle, have a bottle of Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout. Sadly, Duck-Rabbit isn't available very far outside of North Carolina, so you'll probably have trouble getting it delivered.

Days of the Beer, January 10

The beer for today is Wychwood Brewery Company Scarecrow/Circle Master.

On January 10, 1904, Raymond Wallace Bulcao was born. Ray was an actor who changed his name to Ray Bolger, and was best known for his portrayal of the Scarecrow and Kansas farmworker Hunk, in the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz.

Bolger was originally cast as the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow part was to be for Buddy Ebsen (Jed Clampet). Bolger managed to talk the studio into changing the roles. Ebsen later fell ill from the tinman makeup, and was replaced by Jack Haley.

Bolger appeared in more than 30 television shows and movies.

As to the beer:

Wychwood is located in Witney England. They produce beers under the Wychwood and Brakspear labels.

Circle Master is an organic golden pale ale at 4.7% ABV.

Circle Master is brewed using a unique blend of Plumage Archer Barley Malt, organically grown for us under the auspices of the Prince of Wales Duchy Estate in Gloucestershire. Whole leaf target hops, naturally grown in a single garden in Kent, are added to create a beer of exceptional taste and character. The Circle Master conducts a melody of refreshing citrus and delightful malt flavour, rounded off with a spicy bittersweet finish.

Circle Master is released in the U.S. as Scarecrow.

So, for the Scarecrow, have a Scarecrow.

Days of the Beer, January 9

The beer for today is Left Hand Snow Bound Winter Ale.

On January 9, 1968, it snowed in Mexico City. It also snowed on January 10, and 11. This is the only recorded snowfall there.

The average annual temperature of Mexico City if from 53 to 60 degrees. The lowest temperatures are usually registered in January and February, and it normally doesn't get colder than 23 degrees.

As to the beer:

Fight cabin fever! Made with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, hops, yeast, honey, orange zest, and other spices.

Originally, this beer was XXXmas Ale, but was changed to Snow Bound.

Here' Chipper Dave's review of the beer.

So, for those people in Mexico City, who haven't had snow for 41 years, have a Left Hand Snow Bound; while you are drinking it, try to imagine how horrible they will be driving the next time it snows.

Days of the Beer, January 8

The beer for today is Traquair Jacobite Ale.

On January 8, 1746, Bonnie Prince Charlie occupied Stirling as part of the Second Jacobite Rising.

The Jacobite Risings were a series of uprisings, rebellions, and wars in the kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, between 1688 and 1746. The uprisings were aimed at returning the House of Stuart to the throne after he was deposed by Parliament during the Glorious Revolutions.

The Second Jacobite Rising was known as "The Forty-Five".

As to the beer:

The Traquair House Brewery is managed by Catherine Maxwell Stuart. The brewery opened in 1965. The modern brewery was originally an 18th century domestic brewery that made beer for the house and estate workers.

The famous Bear Gates guarding the approach to Traquair House, near Pebbles, have been closed since 1745 - when the last person to pass through them was Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Now, 250 years later, the ancient Traquair Brew House celebrates the Jacobite cause by producing this potent spiced ale to a traditional fine recipe. Sip slowly and remember the old toast to the "King O'er the Water."

Traquair Jacobite comes in at 8% ABV. It is brewed to celebrate the 1745 rebellion. The beer is spiced with coriander.

So, for the rebellion of 1745, have a Traquair Jacobite Ale.

Days of the Beer, January 7

The beer for today is He'Brew Rejewvenator.

On January 7, 1858, Eliezer Ben-Yehuda was born. He was a key figure in the revival of Hebrew as a spoken language. He was born in Luzhky, of the Russian Empire (currently Vitsebsk Voblast, Belarus). He studied Hebrew and the Bible from age 3. By 12, he had read large portions of the Torah, Mishna, and Talmud. He studied ancient Hebrew at a yeshiva, where he was studying to be a rabbi.

In 1881, he moved to Palestine, and found a job teaching. He raised his son, Ben-Zion Ben-Yehuda, entirely in Hebrew, making his son the first native speaker of modern Hebrew.

Ben-Yehuda was the driving force behind the establishment of the Committee of the Hebrew Language, currently the Academy of the Hebrew Language. He was the author of the first modern Hebrew dictionary.

He died December 16, 1922, of tuberculosis, and was buried on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.

As to the beer:

He'Brew is a branch of Shmaltz Brewing Company. They are based out of San Francisco California.

Jewish tradition celebrates 2 New years; The 1st calendar month in spring historically came after the barley harvest. The High Holidays in Fall mark the creation of the world. Harvest to harvest - the perfect bookends for deliciousness! Arise noble Rejewvenator, infused for '08 with the sacred succulent Fig. O the history, O the shtick: Gen 3:7: "And their eyes were opened, and they knew that they were naked; they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves aprons." Time to get cooking! "Professed Wrestlers and Champions were in times past fed with figs." -Pliny, Roman naturalist. Romulus, mythic founder of Rome, and his twin Remus were nursed by a wild she-wolf under a fig tree. In 1857, Queen Victoria commissioned an 18 inch plaster fig leaf to adorn her cast of Michelangelo's David. "The statue that advertises its modesty with a fig leaf brings its modesty under suspicion." -Mark Twain. Buddha gained enlightenment meditating beneath a fig tree. Zechariah/Micah: "Nations shall beat their swords into plowshares...all will sit with his neighbor under his fig tree, with no one to be afraid." Fear not Shmaltzers - Grab your Newtons, rub your happy belly, strap on your fig leaf and your championship belt, abd prepare to blow your shofar... tis a new HE'BREW Beer season to rejoice. L'Chaim! Brewed for Schmalt Brewing Co.

So for the guy who rejuvinated the Hebrew language, have a He'Brew Rejewvenator.

Days of the Beer, January 6

The beer for today is Unibroue Éphémère Apple.

On January 6, 1966, Andrew Wood was born. Wood was the lead singer of the band Mother Love Bone. He died March 19,1990 shortly before the release of the band's debut album Apple, in July.

Mother Love Bone, was Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Bruce Fairweather, Greg Gilmore, and Andrew Wood. After Wood died, the band broke up, and Ament and Gossard went to form Pearl Jam. Shortly after the death of Wood, Gossard and Ament, along with Soundgarden's Chris Cornell, would write a tribute album for Wood, with the band name of Temple of the Dog.

As to the beer:

Unibroue is based out of Chambly, Quebec, Canada.

Éphémère is the third in a series of lively original-recipe beers that come and go before you know it. From season to season and year to year you'll find a different Éphémère beer.

There are several beers in the Éphémère line, including (but not limited to) apple, cassis, cranberry, peach, and raspberry.

So, for what would be Andrew Wood's 43rd birthday, have an Unibroue Éphémère Apple.

Days of the Beer, January 5

The beer for today is Free State Brewing Earhart's Amber.

On January 5, 1939, Amelia Mary Earhart was declared dead. Earhart had been missing since July 2, 1937, and was an aviation pioneer and author. She was the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross, that she was awarded as the first Aviatrix (female avaitor) to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Her plane was lost during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe in 1937. She disappeared over the central Pacific Ocean near Howland Island.

As to the beer:

Free State Brewing is located in Lawrence Kansas. It was opened in 1989, and was the first legal brewery in Kansas in over 100 years.

The Legend of Atchison born aviatrix Amelia Earhart lives on in Earhart’s Amber Ale. This delightfully balanced amber ale uses a blend of English Pale Ale, Caramel and Roasted Malts along with a bit of flaked barley to provide a smooth yet flavorful malt character. The malts are balanced with domestic Fuggles hops in the kettle and the hop back and a fine hop aroma comes from dry hopping with English challenger hops. Like its namesake, smooth yet bold, colorful and intriguing. O.G. 10.5/1042. Hops 15 IBUs

I'm unsure if this beer is still available, if you can get to Lawrence, and they have it, have a Free State Brewing Earhart's Amber.

Days of the Beer, January 4

The beer for today is Delirium Tremens.

On January 4, 1903, Topsy, an elephant with the Forepaugh Circus at Coney Island's Luna park was electrocuted. Topsy was deemed to be a threat to people, because she had killed three men.

Thomas Edison had suggested electrocution to kill the elephant, as it had been used for killing people since 1890. To ensure it worked, Topsy was fed carrots laced with 460 grams of potassium cyanide, before the 6,600 volts were sent through her body. She was dead in seconds.

The event was filmed by Thomas Edison.



As to the beer:

Delirium Tremens is made by Brouwerij Huyghe in Melle, Belgium. The beer comes in at 8.5% ABV, and is considered a Belgian Strong Ale.

The particular character and the unique taste of "Delirium Tremens" result from the use of three different kinds of yeast. Its very original packing, which resembles cologne ceramics, and the colourful label contribute to its success.
In 1997, Stuart A. Kallen nominated Delirium Tremens as "best beer in the world". A gold medal during the "world beer championships" in Chicago (1998) confirmed that worldwide recognition.

Delirium tremens, itself is an acute episode of delirium that is caused by withdrawal or abstinence from tranquilizers. When caused by alcohol, it happens in people with a history of constant, long-term alcohol consumption. Five percent of alcohol withdrawl cases turn into delirium tremens. DT can be fatal. If untreated, mortaltiy can be up to 35%, if treated the rate drops to around 5-15%.

The symptoms are confusion, disorientation, agitation and hallucinations. Additionally, there can be severe, uncontr4ollable tremors of the extremeties.

So, for Tipsy the electrocuted elephant, have a Delirium Tremens, but don't stop drinking, because that could kill you as well.

Days of the Beer, January 3

The beer for today is Maui Brewing Father Damien Abbey Ale.

On January 3, 1840, Jozef de Veusterwas born. Jozef later would become known as Father Damien. Damien was a Roman Catholic priest from Belgium. He is known for ministering to people who had leprosy, who were placed in medical quarantine on the island of Molokai in the Kingdom of Hawaii. He eventually contracted the disease, and died on April 16, 1889. He is considered to be a "martyr of charity".

Damien is the patron for people with Hansen's Disease, HIV and AIDS, as well as people who are outcasts.

He is not currently an official Saint yet, but is listed as Blessed.

As to the beer:

Maui Brewing company is located in Hawaii. Their beers are made in 7 barrel batches.

Fresh handcrafted Belgian Abbey Ale with a complexity of flavors. Fruit flavors like plum and cherry imparted from a special Belgian yeast mix with a variety of malt flavors.

It comes in at 9.6% ABV, and is comparable to Chimay Blue.

So, for the Blessed Father Damien, have a Father Damien abbey ale.

Days of the Beer, January 2

The beer for today is Søgaard Skipper Stowt.

On January 2, 1990, Alan Hale, Jr. died. Alan was born on March 8, 1918, and was best known as Jonas Grumby, or the Skipper, on Gilligan's Island.

Hale died from cancer, at the St. Vincent's Medical Center in Los Angeles. He was cremated and his ashes were scattered at sea.

Due to being connected with Gilligan's Island, he had difficulty getting acting roles later in his career. He co-owned a restaurant in West Hollywood "Alan Hale's Lobster Barrel" and would often greet customers in his Skipper hat.

As to the beer:

A very dark, almost black bottom fermented beer. Very heavily dried and dark types of malt has been used, which gices a hoppy character. This gives power and body to the beer as well as a sweet almost smoked flavour, which is in balance with the distinct bitterness. Prevously known as "Søgaard Porter"

The beer is 5.8% ABV, so if you drink enough, you might crash your boat. Søgaard's is out of Aalborg, Denmark.

So, for Alan Hale, the Skipper, have a Skipper Stowt.