While in Connecticut, Shane picked up a bottle of the Captain Lawrence Golden Delicious; a Apple Brandy barrel aged Belgian-style Tripel. Coming in at a rather massive 12% ABV, expect notes of booze, brandy, apple skins, Belgian yeast and candied sugar.
Walking through the aisle of a local beer and wine store, a big bottle with the word “Tripel” on it just popped out at me. That beer was the Long Strange Tripel from Boulevard Brewing Company, a year long offering from their Smokestack Series of beers. At 9% ABV, the Long Strange Tripel could be pretty potent, but hopefully the other flavors keep it in check.
Spring is in the air — no, it’s unfortunately not. It’s just the aroma of the Schlafly Saison I recently received from a friend. The Saint Louis Brewery currently has all its beer branded under the Schlafly name, and is growing rapidly. They’ve started looking to expand their operation to begin brewing in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Though, unfortunately for their Saison it won’t be growing with them, as this one I received is part of the very last batch they’ll be releasing.
Crispin Cider, a maker of “Super-Premium Natural Hard Apple Cider” from Minnesota, were extremely gracious in getting us started in reviewing Hard Ciders by sending a care package. The first one, and very first Hard Cider review, is from their Artisanal Reserve collection labeled Honey Crisp. Their 22oz bottle is labeled as “Smooth over ice with organic honey” and stands at 6.5% ABV.
The Dundee Brewing Company, part of the larger Genesee Brewing Company, are based out of Rochester, New York and are home to a variety of craft beer. They were even gracious enough to send me some samples of a few of their beers. Today, I’m starting with their Kölsch-style Ale, a refreshingly sessionable ale on the first day of summer!
