- Lagunitas Hop Stoopid
- Okocim Mocne (Malt Liquor)
- Bison Brewing Company Reunion: A Beer For Hope 2010
- Deschutes Hop in the Dark CDA
- Goose Island Night Stalker
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Saturday, May 28, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Saturday, May 21, 2011
BEERhunting ~ Kelley's Irish Pub
As a Vero Beach native, there are still an unfortunate amount of local haunts whose thresholds have not been crossed by yours beerly.
Tragic! Heresy! Pepe-le-pew!
And so I find myself bellying up to the bar with good company – Chris Martin takes a bow – and settling in amidst generations of décor as inviting as the neighborly generations seated around me. Wholly unassuming from the outside, possibly even intimidating, don’t be fooled for inside warmth invites and smiles welcome. Not large by any standard, what Kelley’s dismisses in largesse it more than makes up for in cozy service and comfort food that is all Irish.
Being my inaugural visit, all the faces were new but Chris recognized one of the bartenders who also apparently knows my Lovely from the days of Pearls Bistro. Pearls Bistro?! Now hold on there! I used to eat at Pearls Bistro all the time growing up. It was a family favorite, so much so my sister even had her wedding reception there. It’s a small town after all… When in Kelley’s be sure to belly up to the bar, ask for Stella, and know you will be treated right.
But enough of memories past, it’s liverwurst time. That’s right. Braunschweiger or Liverwurst or whatever you call it, if the name doesn’t give away some of the artery-clogging gout-inducing ingredients, that just means more for me. With a Guinness Draught in hand and a Harp in Chris’, the good times kept rolling. While Guinness on draft doesn’t woo me as she used to, the right time and place gave these five senses plenty to revel in.
On the downside, my Liverwurst sammich with onions arrived, well, without onion. A minor mishap, twas quickly resolved with a generous side of onions which I generously lavished on each bite. Equally lavished was tastebud-tingling sinus-clearing spicy mustard. Yowza! All sandwiched between two slices of rye bread for a savory jaw-stretching indulgence with chips and a side of pickle for company – lunch has arrived yesindeed. Finishing up our session was a dram of Tullamore Dew. Untasted before that afternoon, notes were forsaken in favor of simple savorance.
As Chris and I relaxed for just a little bit longer, a new Seagrams 7 bottle caught my eye. A taste later, I was reminded once more why stiff white suits in cold shiny buildings should stick to polishing their name plaques and leave the sacred nature of spirits to those who appreciate and those who honor. Crap is crap, after all, no matter what pretty name it may posture.
But I digress…
One thing which is not crap is Kelley’s Irish Pub. I wholly enjoyed my first expedition with plans for many more. A Vero Beach staple for a multitude of reasons, I encourage all looking for homely Irish fare to stop in for a pint, a dram, a bite of grub, and memories irreplaceable. When you do stop in, tell Stella that Kristyn and Laura say “Hi.”
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Tragic! Heresy! Pepe-le-pew!
And so I find myself bellying up to the bar with good company – Chris Martin takes a bow – and settling in amidst generations of décor as inviting as the neighborly generations seated around me. Wholly unassuming from the outside, possibly even intimidating, don’t be fooled for inside warmth invites and smiles welcome. Not large by any standard, what Kelley’s dismisses in largesse it more than makes up for in cozy service and comfort food that is all Irish.
Being my inaugural visit, all the faces were new but Chris recognized one of the bartenders who also apparently knows my Lovely from the days of Pearls Bistro. Pearls Bistro?! Now hold on there! I used to eat at Pearls Bistro all the time growing up. It was a family favorite, so much so my sister even had her wedding reception there. It’s a small town after all… When in Kelley’s be sure to belly up to the bar, ask for Stella, and know you will be treated right.
But enough of memories past, it’s liverwurst time. That’s right. Braunschweiger or Liverwurst or whatever you call it, if the name doesn’t give away some of the artery-clogging gout-inducing ingredients, that just means more for me. With a Guinness Draught in hand and a Harp in Chris’, the good times kept rolling. While Guinness on draft doesn’t woo me as she used to, the right time and place gave these five senses plenty to revel in.
On the downside, my Liverwurst sammich with onions arrived, well, without onion. A minor mishap, twas quickly resolved with a generous side of onions which I generously lavished on each bite. Equally lavished was tastebud-tingling sinus-clearing spicy mustard. Yowza! All sandwiched between two slices of rye bread for a savory jaw-stretching indulgence with chips and a side of pickle for company – lunch has arrived yesindeed. Finishing up our session was a dram of Tullamore Dew. Untasted before that afternoon, notes were forsaken in favor of simple savorance.
As Chris and I relaxed for just a little bit longer, a new Seagrams 7 bottle caught my eye. A taste later, I was reminded once more why stiff white suits in cold shiny buildings should stick to polishing their name plaques and leave the sacred nature of spirits to those who appreciate and those who honor. Crap is crap, after all, no matter what pretty name it may posture.
But I digress…
One thing which is not crap is Kelley’s Irish Pub. I wholly enjoyed my first expedition with plans for many more. A Vero Beach staple for a multitude of reasons, I encourage all looking for homely Irish fare to stop in for a pint, a dram, a bite of grub, and memories irreplaceable. When you do stop in, tell Stella that Kristyn and Laura say “Hi.”
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Draft Expansion Kick-Off @ Inlet Wines
**Featuring Tequesta Brewing Company's Der Chancellor (kolsch-style) and Gnarly Barley (american pale ale) along with many other fine examples of craft beer tastefulness. Stop in Friday to savor a beer or three and help support Good Beer, especially our Florida brewed brothers and sisters.**
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- De Koningshoeven La Trappe Quad
- Brooklyn Main Engine Start
- Great Divide Tripel
- Weyerbacher Tiny
- Fullers Vintage Ale 2010
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
BEERhunting ~ Mr. Manatees
It’s been a long while since this beer ambassador and burgundian extraordinaire has been on a beer hunt. Always in my deepest regards and utmost respect is the modern Beer Hunter (and Whisky Chaser) himself, the affable Michael Jackson. In my own humbly-bumbly way do I aspire to in some way open eyes, broaden minds, and curious tastebuds create. And so into the summer of 2011 do I once more test waters near and far for hidden jewels ripe with moments unforgettable wrapped in endless joy.
As a Vero Beach native (2nd generation thankyouverymuch), there are many landmarks that define our relaxing shores. A staple of natives and seasonals alike, Mr. Manatees has been serving the Treasure Coast for almost as many years as I have been alive. That’s thirty-something of my thirty-three years with no doubt that the Manatee will be around for at least another thirty-something. A steady formula and a commitment to being, well, Mr. Manatees, has created a Royal Palm Point staple I’ve visit via land and water. Fancy? No. Revolutionary? No. Totally local? Yes. The moment is what we make of it, so make of it I happily did.
It had been a few months since my last visit but I had faith little had changed, and I was right. If anything, yours beerly has changed in that long while since. One with the moment, I waltzed into Mr. Manatees with a hankering for her unique je ne sais quoi.
And just what would that be?
Domestic beer and comforting fried niblets of surf, turf, and gator tail. Gator tail notwithstanding, I wasn’t exactly there for the beer, but a recent munch had revealed a familiar staple – Samuel Adams Boston Lager. Occasionally on draft though easier to find in the bottle, she was a welcome sight for these beer geek eyes. As our waitress placed two bottles (sides checked for date freshness) along with two glasses on the table, frosted for Chris and non-frosted for me, happy days were here again.
Ground-breaking?
No.
But a far cry better than my choices behind macro doors number 1, 2, and B.O.R.I.N.G.
Speaking of our daily bread, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale would be a most refreshing addition.
Just saying…
With one Boston Lager sitting happy in my belly, along came another just in time for Manatee’s special of the day: coconut chicken sandwich. In fact, make that two coconut chicken sandwiches ala Boston Lager as Chris and I sat opposite each other in mirrored burgundian reflection. I’ve had coconut encrusted fish but never chicken and as my barren plate was taken away, I’d say the tastebuds indubitably approved. The chicken was tender, the coconut flakes golden and crisp, and together with the usual condiments and fries, the moment came, tasted, and conquered.
Bellies full from Boston to Florida, Chris and I slowly savored our time on the patio overlooking the Indian River and her adjoining canals. A landscape surely changed over time and circumstance, windows have replaced open air while A/C took the place of Mother Nature’s soothing breath. All in all though, the beer was good, food satiating, view nostalgic, and service pleasing. And while I am at it, be sure to preclude any and all meals with Mr. Manatee’s melt-in-the-mouth teriyaki steak bites. Medium-rare is my desire. Yours?
The verdict? You will just have to visit Mr. Manatees of Vero Beach and taste for yourself. Leave the day behind, even if only for a while, and enjoy the expected. I did.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
As a Vero Beach native (2nd generation thankyouverymuch), there are many landmarks that define our relaxing shores. A staple of natives and seasonals alike, Mr. Manatees has been serving the Treasure Coast for almost as many years as I have been alive. That’s thirty-something of my thirty-three years with no doubt that the Manatee will be around for at least another thirty-something. A steady formula and a commitment to being, well, Mr. Manatees, has created a Royal Palm Point staple I’ve visit via land and water. Fancy? No. Revolutionary? No. Totally local? Yes. The moment is what we make of it, so make of it I happily did.
It had been a few months since my last visit but I had faith little had changed, and I was right. If anything, yours beerly has changed in that long while since. One with the moment, I waltzed into Mr. Manatees with a hankering for her unique je ne sais quoi.
And just what would that be?
Domestic beer and comforting fried niblets of surf, turf, and gator tail. Gator tail notwithstanding, I wasn’t exactly there for the beer, but a recent munch had revealed a familiar staple – Samuel Adams Boston Lager. Occasionally on draft though easier to find in the bottle, she was a welcome sight for these beer geek eyes. As our waitress placed two bottles (sides checked for date freshness) along with two glasses on the table, frosted for Chris and non-frosted for me, happy days were here again.
Ground-breaking?
No.
But a far cry better than my choices behind macro doors number 1, 2, and B.O.R.I.N.G.
Speaking of our daily bread, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale would be a most refreshing addition.
Just saying…
With one Boston Lager sitting happy in my belly, along came another just in time for Manatee’s special of the day: coconut chicken sandwich. In fact, make that two coconut chicken sandwiches ala Boston Lager as Chris and I sat opposite each other in mirrored burgundian reflection. I’ve had coconut encrusted fish but never chicken and as my barren plate was taken away, I’d say the tastebuds indubitably approved. The chicken was tender, the coconut flakes golden and crisp, and together with the usual condiments and fries, the moment came, tasted, and conquered.
Bellies full from Boston to Florida, Chris and I slowly savored our time on the patio overlooking the Indian River and her adjoining canals. A landscape surely changed over time and circumstance, windows have replaced open air while A/C took the place of Mother Nature’s soothing breath. All in all though, the beer was good, food satiating, view nostalgic, and service pleasing. And while I am at it, be sure to preclude any and all meals with Mr. Manatee’s melt-in-the-mouth teriyaki steak bites. Medium-rare is my desire. Yours?
The verdict? You will just have to visit Mr. Manatees of Vero Beach and taste for yourself. Leave the day behind, even if only for a while, and enjoy the expected. I did.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Monday, May 09, 2011
Tequesta Brewing Kickoff @ Hurricane Grill & Wings VB ~ Friday May 13th
**See you all there!! Congratulations Matt and thanks JJTaylor for bringing this fine brewery to the Treasure Coast.**
Friday, May 06, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Ommegang Gnomegang
- Great Divide Anniversary Wood Aged Double IPA
- North Coast Old Stock Bourbon Barrel 2009
- Shipyard XXXX IPA
- Erie Brewing Drake's Crude Oatmeal Stout
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Friday, April 29, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Lost Coast 8 Ball Bourbon Barrel Stout
- Samuel Adams Revolutionary Rye
- Schmaltz Brewing HeBrew Jewbelation Twelve
- Lagunitas Hairy Eyeball
- Blue Point Blueberry Ale
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Thursday, April 28, 2011
BEERflections ~ Broken Barrel Tavern 2 Year Anniversary
I’ve been a fan of Kevin and his bastion of smoky BBQ delights, Broken Barrel Tavern, for two years now even if I wasn’t there for the very beginning. A newly remodeled strip mall on the corner of Babcock and Palm Bay Boulevard isn’t exactly what some would consider prime retail for artisanal beer, food, and spirit exploration. They would be wrong! A funny thing about expectations – they are made to be broken repeatedly, successfully, and tastefully.
Chilling at the bar for a few were yours beerly and her Lovely Laura. As the festivities rocked all around us, we scoped out the killer draft line-up ranging from the Avery Maharaja to Widmer Brrrrbon. Arriving around 7pm, the Avery Maharaja was already drained while other tapped offerings included Cuvee Alex La Rouge, De Dolle Oerbier, Dogfish Head Namaste, Great Divide 17th Anniversary, Harvieston Bitter & Twisted, Kasteel Rouge, Ommegang Gnomegang, Sierra Nevada Ovila Dubbel, and tapped right before our eager eyes, the Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers.
Chipotle Peppers – drank em and love em.
Heat and I don’t get along very well and the Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers from Stone had HEAT. Yowza! With our tastebuds a-tingle, Laura and I had set sights on the Barrel’s smoky spicy dry-rubbed St. Lois ribs but alas, we were too late. A mad dash on ribs early in the Anniversary celebrations had emptied Barrel’s fresh reserves for the day. Yes, they really are THAT GOOD. Our beer and food pairing intentions were crushed, but that’s okay because there is always next time. Keeping our bellies full in the meantime were the funkalicious blue cheese chips. Blue cheese melted and chunked atop crisp house chips along with roasted red pepper niblets for finger-licking lip-smacking enjoyment.
Always on the hunt for new beers to explore in contemplative savorance, I tasted my way through the Dogfish Head Namaste, De Dolle Oerbier, and finished with the aforementioned chipotle pepper infused Smoked Porter. An inspirational procession of flavors, they took me from Rehobeth Beach to the landlocked Burgundian pleasures of Belgium and all the way back to Escondido, California, home of my Love’s favorite brewery – Stone. Yum, Yum, and yum!
We didn’t win anything with our generous stash of raffle tickets despite our best drinking and eating intentions but it was fun trying. As night crept and we made our way home, I reflect on lessons and blessings. Having a family irrevocably changes one’s perspective priorities and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Home is where the heart is and the heart is home, forever and always.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Chilling at the bar for a few were yours beerly and her Lovely Laura. As the festivities rocked all around us, we scoped out the killer draft line-up ranging from the Avery Maharaja to Widmer Brrrrbon. Arriving around 7pm, the Avery Maharaja was already drained while other tapped offerings included Cuvee Alex La Rouge, De Dolle Oerbier, Dogfish Head Namaste, Great Divide 17th Anniversary, Harvieston Bitter & Twisted, Kasteel Rouge, Ommegang Gnomegang, Sierra Nevada Ovila Dubbel, and tapped right before our eager eyes, the Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers.
Chipotle Peppers – drank em and love em.
Heat and I don’t get along very well and the Stone Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers from Stone had HEAT. Yowza! With our tastebuds a-tingle, Laura and I had set sights on the Barrel’s smoky spicy dry-rubbed St. Lois ribs but alas, we were too late. A mad dash on ribs early in the Anniversary celebrations had emptied Barrel’s fresh reserves for the day. Yes, they really are THAT GOOD. Our beer and food pairing intentions were crushed, but that’s okay because there is always next time. Keeping our bellies full in the meantime were the funkalicious blue cheese chips. Blue cheese melted and chunked atop crisp house chips along with roasted red pepper niblets for finger-licking lip-smacking enjoyment.
Always on the hunt for new beers to explore in contemplative savorance, I tasted my way through the Dogfish Head Namaste, De Dolle Oerbier, and finished with the aforementioned chipotle pepper infused Smoked Porter. An inspirational procession of flavors, they took me from Rehobeth Beach to the landlocked Burgundian pleasures of Belgium and all the way back to Escondido, California, home of my Love’s favorite brewery – Stone. Yum, Yum, and yum!
We didn’t win anything with our generous stash of raffle tickets despite our best drinking and eating intentions but it was fun trying. As night crept and we made our way home, I reflect on lessons and blessings. Having a family irrevocably changes one’s perspective priorities and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Home is where the heart is and the heart is home, forever and always.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Saturday, April 23, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Deschutes Jubelale
- Petrus Aged Pale Ale
- Verhaeghe Echte Kriekenbier
- Petrus Oud Bruin
- Odell Brewing St. Lupulin Extra Pale Ale
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Friday, April 22, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Odell Brewing 90 Shilling Ale
- Schmaltz Brewing HeBrew Jewbelation Fourteen
- Schmaltz Brewing HeBrew Vertical Jewbelation
- Fort Collins Rocky Mountain IPA
- Mad River Brewing Steelhead Double IPA
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Brew & Grub Dinnerflections ~ April 13th 2011
When it comes to beer and food, there is no such thing as enough, and so the weekly Wednesday Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing at BrewGrrs was born thanks to the conspiring minds of Anthony, Rob, and yours beerly. Is a weekly dinner pairing still special when it’s weekly? In my naturally biased opinion, yes, and you can take my word for it. Better yet, is Vero Beach ala the Treasure Coast ready? If not, they will be soon whether they like it or like it. And what’s not to like, dangnabbit?! Good brews and good food are natural bedfellows to which I am the willing third party and so are you.
Last week’s inaugural dinner was a voyeur fest for me while this week I was attentively engaged in beer and food porn. Before starting my own flavorgasmic journey through three courses of plate licking proportions, I bounced around the kitchen, camera flashing, to catch creativity in action. A weekly venture through brewphoric culinary bliss? Bring it! This burgundian is armed and ready! But which will be mightier – the fork or the pen?
Our first course was a sushi lover’s treat. Fresh is as fresh as the Wednesday morning delivery of Norwegian Salmon we received. In cracking the lid on her chilled Styrofoam confines, I heard the gentle lapping of chilly Norwegian waters lap against rocks weathered by time and tradition. As a native Floridian who spent her youthful years fishing the Indian River and North Atlantic Ocean, tis tradition near and dear. Expertly plated, the avocado dill oil drizzle was creamy herbal temptation that lured me straight into melt-in-the-mouth Norwegian Salmon tartare tidbits briefly tossed in a sauce of mayo, soy, syracha, cumin, lime zest, cucumber, onion, and hand-chopped cilantro. Kept company by a deliciously burnt reduction of Guinness and soy, the tartare was paired with the limited release of Samuel Adams Rustic Saison. An impressive take on the historic Belgian Saison, it poured from a special faucet meant to temper the vivacious yeast while best presenting said beer’s flavorsations. Expect many good saisons to flow from its gleaming glory through the passing years, months, weeks, and days.
But I digress.
Joined by fellow beer dinner fanatic John B, we ogled, oogled, sniffed, snarfed, and moaned our way into the second course.
I’ve been a fan of Brooklyn Brewery for as long as I’ve been lucky enough to savor their classic fermentables. Garrett Oliver is a genius brewer, flavor advocate, burgundian, cocktailarian, and all around awe-inspiring gent I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting. Yet. One of the first few Brooklyn beers was the English inspired brown ale whose malty spicy caramelized savory designs scream for red meat. Yes, scream. One bite of the lip-smacking Brooklyn Brown Ale BBQ Black Angus pulled short ribs infusion and angels blushed while I lavished love on each succulent morsel. Poured perfectly was a perfectly fresh melon salsa. Pooled next to our Angus bounty was a plolenta that defied physics within its firmly melted ooey-gooey cheesy proportions. Accompanied by a glass of Brooklyn Brown Ale, the tastegasms were innumerable.
A moment please…
It is hard to believe but yes, burgundian pleasure does come in threes. I like a cookie and you like a cookie. I scream for ice cream and you scream for ice cream. Together with a little help from Ghirardelli chocolate chips and I’m transported to frolicking days of youth in just one bite. Blanche de Bruxelles infused white cookies sandwich Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream and a glass of Dogfish Head Palo Santo Marron met in a drum roll of spice, cookie, vanilla cream, chocolate crunch, tobacco leaf, earth, love, and bliss on earth. Sometimes simple is best and within that simplicity does one realize infinite pleasure in its infinite simplicity.
Confused? Good.
As night settled, John and I bid our separate ways home with a promise to meet again sooner than later. BrewGrrs weekly Wednesday Brew & Grub Dinner Pairings are another adventure into flavorspiration, and a welcome challenge for my muse. With both pen and tastebuds at the ready, I say Welcome!
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Last week’s inaugural dinner was a voyeur fest for me while this week I was attentively engaged in beer and food porn. Before starting my own flavorgasmic journey through three courses of plate licking proportions, I bounced around the kitchen, camera flashing, to catch creativity in action. A weekly venture through brewphoric culinary bliss? Bring it! This burgundian is armed and ready! But which will be mightier – the fork or the pen?
Our first course was a sushi lover’s treat. Fresh is as fresh as the Wednesday morning delivery of Norwegian Salmon we received. In cracking the lid on her chilled Styrofoam confines, I heard the gentle lapping of chilly Norwegian waters lap against rocks weathered by time and tradition. As a native Floridian who spent her youthful years fishing the Indian River and North Atlantic Ocean, tis tradition near and dear. Expertly plated, the avocado dill oil drizzle was creamy herbal temptation that lured me straight into melt-in-the-mouth Norwegian Salmon tartare tidbits briefly tossed in a sauce of mayo, soy, syracha, cumin, lime zest, cucumber, onion, and hand-chopped cilantro. Kept company by a deliciously burnt reduction of Guinness and soy, the tartare was paired with the limited release of Samuel Adams Rustic Saison. An impressive take on the historic Belgian Saison, it poured from a special faucet meant to temper the vivacious yeast while best presenting said beer’s flavorsations. Expect many good saisons to flow from its gleaming glory through the passing years, months, weeks, and days.
But I digress.
Joined by fellow beer dinner fanatic John B, we ogled, oogled, sniffed, snarfed, and moaned our way into the second course.
I’ve been a fan of Brooklyn Brewery for as long as I’ve been lucky enough to savor their classic fermentables. Garrett Oliver is a genius brewer, flavor advocate, burgundian, cocktailarian, and all around awe-inspiring gent I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting. Yet. One of the first few Brooklyn beers was the English inspired brown ale whose malty spicy caramelized savory designs scream for red meat. Yes, scream. One bite of the lip-smacking Brooklyn Brown Ale BBQ Black Angus pulled short ribs infusion and angels blushed while I lavished love on each succulent morsel. Poured perfectly was a perfectly fresh melon salsa. Pooled next to our Angus bounty was a plolenta that defied physics within its firmly melted ooey-gooey cheesy proportions. Accompanied by a glass of Brooklyn Brown Ale, the tastegasms were innumerable.
A moment please…
It is hard to believe but yes, burgundian pleasure does come in threes. I like a cookie and you like a cookie. I scream for ice cream and you scream for ice cream. Together with a little help from Ghirardelli chocolate chips and I’m transported to frolicking days of youth in just one bite. Blanche de Bruxelles infused white cookies sandwich Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream and a glass of Dogfish Head Palo Santo Marron met in a drum roll of spice, cookie, vanilla cream, chocolate crunch, tobacco leaf, earth, love, and bliss on earth. Sometimes simple is best and within that simplicity does one realize infinite pleasure in its infinite simplicity.
Confused? Good.
As night settled, John and I bid our separate ways home with a promise to meet again sooner than later. BrewGrrs weekly Wednesday Brew & Grub Dinner Pairings are another adventure into flavorspiration, and a welcome challenge for my muse. With both pen and tastebuds at the ready, I say Welcome!
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Friday, April 15, 2011
Brew & Grub Dinnerflections ~ April 6th 2011
For BrewGrrs inaugural weekly Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing, I was remiss to taste my way through each course but I made sure to take advantage of multiple photo opportunities. My sincere regrets for not savoring Anthony's flavor creations; sorry! Thankfully, near and dear friends Mike and Paula ensured that a nibble or three passed across my lips to caress my tastebuds in flavorphoria. Yum! As for reflecting on the brew part of the grub pairing...unfortunately not this time. But having savored the brews separately more than once, my burgundian imagination can come pretty close to the real thing. As I ready to write and reminisce on the second brew and grub pairing I shall leave you with...
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
BEERflections ~ Ballast Point Beer Dinner @ Town Crier Pub
A month seems so long ago and yet just like yesterday, time can be an intriguing reflection through which great beer and great food reminisce in prose and lyric. Beerotica for the mind’s eye but just what is beerotica…
One doesn’t have to travel far to find truly mouthwatering morsels of hand-crafted flavor exploration. As a native Veroite and self-discovered foodie, my own personal euphoric journey of beer and food is truly near and dear. Via the cool concrete of the well-traveled I-95, I found myself once more amidst the friendly faces of Town Crier, a land of beer and food not so far away.
Having never missed a Pub dinner to date, I was not about to miss the first of a brand new year. Joining me for the first time was my Lady Laura, reason alone for this dinner to be the best so far. Not to say the brews, food, and peeps also contributed to my night of tasteful indulgence but in the warm accompaniment of Love, life is always good.
How good?
As good as five courses of beer foodvinity can be.
I wish their previous chef George Citron well at his new culinary endeavor and he can rest assured that the Town Crier Pub is in good hands with Chef Kyle Greene. Ballast Point Brewery out of San Diego, California may be new to Florida but they are certainly not new to beer. I’ve said it before, I’m saying it now, and I’m sure I’ll say it again: great beers + great food = magic. Not the magic of fairy dust and unicorns but the very real magic of flavorvana.
Joining my Love and I at our table of awesomeness were fellow alum Mike and Paula (never missed a dinner), Mark Boland (never missed a dinner) and his own leading lady, Tammy, Joe, Lorraine and Duncan, Tara, and a beer dinner newb, Jenny. With camera at the ready, tastebuds raring, appetite rumbling, excitement crackled through the air as the first of five orgasm-inducing courses entered, followed by another and another until there were none. No matter the dinner, there has always been one course that rises above the others but not this time. A Town Crier first, all courses excelled equally. The bar has been raised high indeed. Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Astral projection aside, since I can’t choose nor do I desire to do so, a few titillating tidbits of beery food porn shall I expose here and now. The rest shall be left to the enviably hungry imagination.
Hungry and thirsty yet?
Burgundism came, tasted, and conquered once more. I know I alluded to earlier but it bears to be said again – best beer dinner yet. Not only were the pairings taste-on, but for the first time the portions were perfect. Chris, Kyle, and the crew are definitely taking off into a successful new horizon of burgundian indulgence, a new horizon me, my Love, and my posse of peeps will happily crest time and time again.
Since the February 28th dinner, there have been no further pairings. On the flipside, Ballast Point brews of all varieties have graced my fridge and will continue to do so. For sharing his personal passion for Ballast Point with we humble beer dinner geeks of the Treasure Coast, a generous thanks to Earl. Florida may be a bit behind the whole craft beerdom but not for long. Look out world, here we come and here I am!
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
One doesn’t have to travel far to find truly mouthwatering morsels of hand-crafted flavor exploration. As a native Veroite and self-discovered foodie, my own personal euphoric journey of beer and food is truly near and dear. Via the cool concrete of the well-traveled I-95, I found myself once more amidst the friendly faces of Town Crier, a land of beer and food not so far away.
Having never missed a Pub dinner to date, I was not about to miss the first of a brand new year. Joining me for the first time was my Lady Laura, reason alone for this dinner to be the best so far. Not to say the brews, food, and peeps also contributed to my night of tasteful indulgence but in the warm accompaniment of Love, life is always good.
How good?
As good as five courses of beer foodvinity can be.
I wish their previous chef George Citron well at his new culinary endeavor and he can rest assured that the Town Crier Pub is in good hands with Chef Kyle Greene. Ballast Point Brewery out of San Diego, California may be new to Florida but they are certainly not new to beer. I’ve said it before, I’m saying it now, and I’m sure I’ll say it again: great beers + great food = magic. Not the magic of fairy dust and unicorns but the very real magic of flavorvana.
Joining my Love and I at our table of awesomeness were fellow alum Mike and Paula (never missed a dinner), Mark Boland (never missed a dinner) and his own leading lady, Tammy, Joe, Lorraine and Duncan, Tara, and a beer dinner newb, Jenny. With camera at the ready, tastebuds raring, appetite rumbling, excitement crackled through the air as the first of five orgasm-inducing courses entered, followed by another and another until there were none. No matter the dinner, there has always been one course that rises above the others but not this time. A Town Crier first, all courses excelled equally. The bar has been raised high indeed. Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Astral projection aside, since I can’t choose nor do I desire to do so, a few titillating tidbits of beery food porn shall I expose here and now. The rest shall be left to the enviably hungry imagination.
First Course:
Curry jumbo lump crab salad resting atop mango coconut sauce accompanied by fresh avocado slices and paired with Wahoo White.
- Soft fresh melt-in-the-mouth hand lumped crab meat atop sweet mango coconut decadence tempers a spicy curry kick. As for the avocado, tis a treat unto itself and seafood’s natural bedfellow. Paired with the soothing essence of bubblegum, tropical fruits, moist breads, and sunshine, Wahoo Wheat was the beginning and the end.
Second Course:
Seared sea scallop amidst toasted almonds and tropical fruit salsa puree meets the Sculpin IPA.
- Sculpin is easily one of my favorite IPAs readily available within my sunny state of Florida. Crisp and dry, spicy and fruity, bitter and sweet, citrusy and grassy. Unsurprisingly, her flavors complemented and uplifted the savory succulent toasty caramelized tropical spicy delights that exploded with each bite. Hands down one of the best scallops ever savored in my life amidst a phantasia of seafoodsations.
Third Course:
Chorizo encrusted mahi-mahi rests atop a moat of creamy Creole sauce accompanied by Calico Amber Ale.
- When I pass from this world I want it to be with a warm crock of creamy Creole sauce in my hand. Holy mahi-mahi! May I have some more please…and please I did. (Yes, there are pictures) The tender mahi-mahi with its chorizo crust crunched and the sauce creamed as spicy heat tickled. With each quaff of the Calico Amber Ale, clean hops cut highlighted while a crisp malt backbone kept order of each flavor procession from fork to mouth and glass to lips.
Fourth Course:
Petite sirloin slathered with beautiful bacon onion marmalade surrounded by mushroom ragout and pubstershire sauce while the Big Eye IPA stood guard.
- Red meat, white meat, purple meat – if you kill it and cook it I will eat it. Just please, make mine as juicy red as possible please and thank you. The sauce was a sweet meaty succulent umami carnivoregasm. The only problem and a minor one at that was the omission of steak knives. Tender is as tender does but tender can do neither without her tablemate. Cutlery aside, the Big Eye IPA threw his malty weight into the mix, matching bite for quaff with caramelized melba crunch and hop spice.
Fifth Course:
Dense nutella-chocolate mousse with in-house candied hazelnuts accompanied by Victory At Sea, a coffee vanilla imperial porter.
- Consider this your exclusive beer ambassador expose to tempt, tantalize, and seduce. What appeared before my lovelorn eyes was neither dense nor daunting but demure and divine. Her nutty chocophoria floated across my tastebuds like a buxom goddess drifting through clouds of heavenly fluff – sensual and sexual. Ambrosia is alive and well at Town Crier Pub of Tradition, Florida, indeed.
Hungry and thirsty yet?
Burgundism came, tasted, and conquered once more. I know I alluded to earlier but it bears to be said again – best beer dinner yet. Not only were the pairings taste-on, but for the first time the portions were perfect. Chris, Kyle, and the crew are definitely taking off into a successful new horizon of burgundian indulgence, a new horizon me, my Love, and my posse of peeps will happily crest time and time again.
Since the February 28th dinner, there have been no further pairings. On the flipside, Ballast Point brews of all varieties have graced my fridge and will continue to do so. For sharing his personal passion for Ballast Point with we humble beer dinner geeks of the Treasure Coast, a generous thanks to Earl. Florida may be a bit behind the whole craft beerdom but not for long. Look out world, here we come and here I am!
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Monday, April 11, 2011
Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing @ BrewGrrs ~ April 13, 2011
**Another week has passed which means it's time for another fantastic journey through the scintillating sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of beer food harmony at BrewGrrs of Vero Beach, Florida. Also, last Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing we did partial pours in our special event glasses. NOT THIS TIME! From now on it's a full glass of each tasty brew to savor with each tasty course.**
Friday, April 08, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Boulder Killer Penguin 2008
- Magic Hat Howl
- Schmaltz Brewing Jewbelation 11
- Bluegrass Brewing Bourbon Barrel Stout
- Lagunitas Brown Shugga
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing @ BrewGrrs
**From 6pm - ? every Wednesday BrewGrrs will feature a 3 course dinner to tempt your tastebuds. We call it our Brew & Grub Dinner Pairing and not only do I like it, we think you will like it, too. Stop in and experience the flavorgasm of beer paired with food.**
Sunday, April 03, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Dubuisson Bush Ambree
- Hoppy Brewing Company Hoppy Stony Face Red Ale
- Cigar City Brewing Or
- Schmaltz Brewing HeBrew Monumental Jewbelation Tenth Anniversary Ale
- Schmaltz Brewing HeBrew Jewbelation Twelve
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Sierra Nevada Hops Into Spring @ BrewGrrs **TODAY**
**Wet those whistles cause Sierra Nevada is bringing the HOPS!!! Spring is here. I'm ready! Are you?**
Monday, March 28, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Blue Point American Pale Ale
- Cigar City Brewing Either
- Terrapin Moo-Hoo Chocolate Milk Stout
- Shmaltz Brewing Miraculous Jewbelation Eighth Anniversary Ale
- Shmaltz Brewing HeBrew Jewbelation 5766 Ninth Anniversary Ale
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
BEERflections ~ Bells Beer Blast @ BrewGrrs
For the inaugural brewery event at the still virgine venture of restaurateur and pilot, Robert Cobun, BrewGrrs wisely chose the bombastic Bells Brewery of Comstock, Michigan. Brainchild of the charismatically eclectic Larry Bell, his beers are broad in their flavor spectrum and style designs with a soft spot for stouts I am always willing to savor any day, any time, all the time. With time on my side, I started stashing kegs of brews both dark and delicious, mysterious too. While stouts are key to Bells brewdentity, there is another key ingredient which sets Bells apart from others: hops and honey.
Okay, technically two ingredients.
The beer in question is none other than the coveted Hopslam. Uber limited and seasonal only, at the start of every new year hopheads and beer geeks everywhere Bells is to be found (and sometimes beyond) eagerly await its release.
Bars galore plan extravagant Bells Bashes centered around this heavenly brew and BrewGrrs was no exception. With our own keg of deliciousness squirreled away along with a small mountain of sixtel barrels awaiting their time to shine, that moment arrived Wednesday February 23rd. On draft all day long were Best Brown, Special Double Cream, Cherry Stout, Java Stout, Expedition, Oberon, Two-Hearted, and a BrewGrrs staple, Amber Ale. Reading through such a stellar list, one will notice a glaring absence: Hopslam.
Fact: The best brews in life are worth waiting for.
Sign-up for Hopslam started at 7pm with the auspicious tapping going down at 8pm. Being a ¼ keg, the total glasses her stainless steel confines would relinquish averages 65 – 70 max. Her vessel of choice for the first of many brewery events was the ever dashing Samuel Adams Perfect Pint glass. Winos, grappa enthusiasts, and scotch fanatics (to name a few) have long heralded the benefits of a proper glass for the proper wine/spirit. Beer is no exception and all good brews deserve their own proper glass to showcase all that the five senses eagerly await to savor.
Come B-Day (that’s Brew Day for the uninitiated), beerholics from Vero Beach and beyond descended upon BrewGrrs to get their name on the Hopslam List. In-between sign-ups and tapping, eight other fantabulous Bells brews flowed nonstop from gleaming nozzles of fermentable delights into eager hands. Yum and yum! Having tasted all the beers in bottle form, it was a personal treat to relish the flavor symphony of such kegly treasures as the Cherry Stout, Best Brown, Java, Special Double Cream, and Expedition. The others I’ve savored many times over and shall continue to do so.
As 8pm knelled, I climbed atop my pedestal ala BrewGrrs bench upon which I crowned lucky Hopslam recipient after lucky Hopslam recipient. In no time flat, 48 minutes to be exact, thar she blew and Hopslam floweth no more…at least, not until next year. Hopslam may have flown the coop, but there were still other tastetastic Bells brews to enjoy which, judging by the sea of laughing smiling faces, they were and then some. As I left my pedestal with voice still intact and wandered amidst my merry posses of peeps, the warm melody of camaraderie, love, and beer filled my heart to overflowing. Though my own tears were kept in check, Rob, enjoying the festivities via Skype, couldn’t hold back wave after wave of proud happy tears.
Truly some of the best days in my life revolve around beer, beer and my Love who though unable to be there in person was there in my thoughts and in my heart.
Both during and after the festivities a few necessary tweaks were duly noted and stored for future brewery event reference. One in particular was that trying to read names is a big no-no and reading 50-50 ticket numbers is a big yes-yes. I apologize for all the names I butchered that night for there were plenty. And regarding glassware, as much as I love the Samuel Adams Perfect Pint, for special brewery events it is better to have a special glass of singular dedication.
As I reminisce, for BrewGrrs first major brewery event executed in short notice, the generous showing of veteran beerventers and newbies alike were beyond even my always optimistic dreams. To each and every one from brewery to distributor to the peeps who helped us shine that night not so long ago, Cheers!
Remember: Life is short. Drink good beer.
Until next time...
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Okay, technically two ingredients.
The beer in question is none other than the coveted Hopslam. Uber limited and seasonal only, at the start of every new year hopheads and beer geeks everywhere Bells is to be found (and sometimes beyond) eagerly await its release.
Bars galore plan extravagant Bells Bashes centered around this heavenly brew and BrewGrrs was no exception. With our own keg of deliciousness squirreled away along with a small mountain of sixtel barrels awaiting their time to shine, that moment arrived Wednesday February 23rd. On draft all day long were Best Brown, Special Double Cream, Cherry Stout, Java Stout, Expedition, Oberon, Two-Hearted, and a BrewGrrs staple, Amber Ale. Reading through such a stellar list, one will notice a glaring absence: Hopslam.
Fact: The best brews in life are worth waiting for.
Sign-up for Hopslam started at 7pm with the auspicious tapping going down at 8pm. Being a ¼ keg, the total glasses her stainless steel confines would relinquish averages 65 – 70 max. Her vessel of choice for the first of many brewery events was the ever dashing Samuel Adams Perfect Pint glass. Winos, grappa enthusiasts, and scotch fanatics (to name a few) have long heralded the benefits of a proper glass for the proper wine/spirit. Beer is no exception and all good brews deserve their own proper glass to showcase all that the five senses eagerly await to savor.
Come B-Day (that’s Brew Day for the uninitiated), beerholics from Vero Beach and beyond descended upon BrewGrrs to get their name on the Hopslam List. In-between sign-ups and tapping, eight other fantabulous Bells brews flowed nonstop from gleaming nozzles of fermentable delights into eager hands. Yum and yum! Having tasted all the beers in bottle form, it was a personal treat to relish the flavor symphony of such kegly treasures as the Cherry Stout, Best Brown, Java, Special Double Cream, and Expedition. The others I’ve savored many times over and shall continue to do so.
As 8pm knelled, I climbed atop my pedestal ala BrewGrrs bench upon which I crowned lucky Hopslam recipient after lucky Hopslam recipient. In no time flat, 48 minutes to be exact, thar she blew and Hopslam floweth no more…at least, not until next year. Hopslam may have flown the coop, but there were still other tastetastic Bells brews to enjoy which, judging by the sea of laughing smiling faces, they were and then some. As I left my pedestal with voice still intact and wandered amidst my merry posses of peeps, the warm melody of camaraderie, love, and beer filled my heart to overflowing. Though my own tears were kept in check, Rob, enjoying the festivities via Skype, couldn’t hold back wave after wave of proud happy tears.
Truly some of the best days in my life revolve around beer, beer and my Love who though unable to be there in person was there in my thoughts and in my heart.
Both during and after the festivities a few necessary tweaks were duly noted and stored for future brewery event reference. One in particular was that trying to read names is a big no-no and reading 50-50 ticket numbers is a big yes-yes. I apologize for all the names I butchered that night for there were plenty. And regarding glassware, as much as I love the Samuel Adams Perfect Pint, for special brewery events it is better to have a special glass of singular dedication.
As I reminisce, for BrewGrrs first major brewery event executed in short notice, the generous showing of veteran beerventers and newbies alike were beyond even my always optimistic dreams. To each and every one from brewery to distributor to the peeps who helped us shine that night not so long ago, Cheers!
Remember: Life is short. Drink good beer.
Until next time...
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Friday, March 25, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Guinness Foreign Extra Stout
- Sierra Nevada Hoptimum
- Ballast Point Victory At Sea
- Harpoon Triticus
- Cigar City Belgian Dubbel
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Modernone Grand Opening & BrewGrrs
Kill the Keg!!!
Help BrewGrrs kill our keg of Avery White Rascal so we can put Blanche de Bruxelles back on draft. Only you, our beer peeps and peepettes can help with this ever important task. To aid in the Killing of the Keg, Avery White Rascal is $2 off regular price until ALL GONE!! Stay tuned for further BrewGrrs specials for the grand opening weekend (Friday & Saturday) for the Modernone building.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
New Beer Reviews
The latest and greatest:
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
- Casablanca Casa Beer
- New Holland The Poet
- Surly Abrasive Ale
- 21st Amendment Fireside Chat
- Ass Kisser Double IPA
(original written works by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Friday, March 18, 2011
BrewGrrs & American Craft Beer Week
Yes, BrewGrrs will be participating in American Craft Beer Week 2011 for the entire week. While specific tantalizing tidbits are yet to come, I can at least fill all my beer peeps in on some of the works-in-detail:
A tease of participating breweries to entice and excite:
...and with more details to come so STAY TUNED!!!
- tapping of 2 kegs every day of the 1/6 size and of rare exotic funky designs
- a featured beer and food pairing every day
- brewery reps
A tease of participating breweries to entice and excite:
- Terrapin
- Cigar City Brewing
- Harpoon
- Dogfish Head
...and with more details to come so STAY TUNED!!!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
BEERflections ~ Coasters Belgian Beer Fest 2011
Back in my early beer geek days, I explored the landlocked fields of Belgium via the sunny sandy beaches of Vero Beach, Florida long before my own landlocked fields of irresistible beery temptation. Exploring the wide world of beers beyond my own windswept shores was more tantalizing, intriguing, and approachable than delving into what was then (in my mind) a rather chaotic home-state of craft beer affairs. Now my beery horizons linger near and as far away as the quaint town of Saignelegier, Switzerland. The vast world of artisanal fermented treasures is as approachably real as the sudsy nectar kissing one’s lips while flavors aplenty unravel in sensual scintillation.
But where does Belgium fall within all this new world beerness?
For a country so small, Belgium’s self-indulgent veracity for beer, food, and the powers that provide such visceral pleasures burgundism is no better proof of the good life. A contradiction of pride, humility, and faith rounds out their burgundian palate for which I have great personal affinity. Everywhere beer has taken me and continues to take me, I know without a doubt tis in continued thanks to Belgium.
Which brings me and my Love to the 2nd Annual Belgian Beer Fest at Coasters of Melbourne Beach. I missed last year’s inaugural fest but was determined not to miss this year's. So with my Love at my side, we sauntered up the road for a slice of Belgian bliss in sunny Florida.
After lazing around Vero together, Laura and I hit the interstate to make our way norther and faster. Naturally, I prefer the slow scenic cruise north via A1A but time was of the essence and beer was calling. The parking lot was deceptively sparse given the illusion of shopping plaza largesse, bur the packed quarters revealed beyond Coaster’s weather worn green doors spoke otherwise. Standing room only, we smuggled our way close enough to the bar to grab the attentions of the beertender and ordered a round to savor in waiting. The beer in question was none other than a collaborative brew between Coasters and Cigar City especially for Belgian Beer Fest 2011, an Abbey Dubbel brewed with plantains and raisins. As with all things that Cigar City brews, twas a divine concoction of earth, funk, hops, and Belgian inspiration with a Florida twist. Tempted by another round, I nonetheless explored other tasty pastures with a Scaldis 12 and finished with the long-missed Rodenbach Classic.
Adrift at sea, lost in customs, stuck in distribution…whatever the reason, the Rodenbach Classic has not graced our shores in years. Ironically, of the three Belgian beers I savored that night the Rodenbach Classic was the least pleasing. Maybe it has been too long since my tastebuds and she have commiserated, but overall I found her weak, watery, and nothing like her previously vaunted legacy. Others may ratchet it up to disassociation and delusion but I trust these tastebuds and I trust the beery recollections they are associated with. Having acquired similar sentiment from another fellow Belgian enthusiast long familiar with her tasteful designs, I hold doubly firm in my conclusions.
Food wise, Coasters specializes in pub grub and darn good pub grub at that. As our glasses slowly emptied, so too did our helpings of spinach artichoke dip and chips with salsa and cheese. Between the beers and the nibblies, Laura and mine inner Burgundians were duly sated.
Sharing in the jolly festivities (albeit at a different table) was fellow burgundian-in-arms, Jim Masterson. Other Veroites also made the trek northward to savor three days of beers and pubbery during the weekend of February 11th. We only made it up to Melbourne for the 12th but twas a Saturday night well spent. With midnight creeping round the bend, we cruised south along the mystical route of A1A to hearth and home. Love in hand, heart and belly sated, soul aglow, life was truly good. With another successful Belgian Beer Fest under their belt, I look forward to seeing how in 2012 Coasters bests themselves at the Burgundian game of life.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
But where does Belgium fall within all this new world beerness?
For a country so small, Belgium’s self-indulgent veracity for beer, food, and the powers that provide such visceral pleasures burgundism is no better proof of the good life. A contradiction of pride, humility, and faith rounds out their burgundian palate for which I have great personal affinity. Everywhere beer has taken me and continues to take me, I know without a doubt tis in continued thanks to Belgium.
Which brings me and my Love to the 2nd Annual Belgian Beer Fest at Coasters of Melbourne Beach. I missed last year’s inaugural fest but was determined not to miss this year's. So with my Love at my side, we sauntered up the road for a slice of Belgian bliss in sunny Florida.
After lazing around Vero together, Laura and I hit the interstate to make our way norther and faster. Naturally, I prefer the slow scenic cruise north via A1A but time was of the essence and beer was calling. The parking lot was deceptively sparse given the illusion of shopping plaza largesse, bur the packed quarters revealed beyond Coaster’s weather worn green doors spoke otherwise. Standing room only, we smuggled our way close enough to the bar to grab the attentions of the beertender and ordered a round to savor in waiting. The beer in question was none other than a collaborative brew between Coasters and Cigar City especially for Belgian Beer Fest 2011, an Abbey Dubbel brewed with plantains and raisins. As with all things that Cigar City brews, twas a divine concoction of earth, funk, hops, and Belgian inspiration with a Florida twist. Tempted by another round, I nonetheless explored other tasty pastures with a Scaldis 12 and finished with the long-missed Rodenbach Classic.
Adrift at sea, lost in customs, stuck in distribution…whatever the reason, the Rodenbach Classic has not graced our shores in years. Ironically, of the three Belgian beers I savored that night the Rodenbach Classic was the least pleasing. Maybe it has been too long since my tastebuds and she have commiserated, but overall I found her weak, watery, and nothing like her previously vaunted legacy. Others may ratchet it up to disassociation and delusion but I trust these tastebuds and I trust the beery recollections they are associated with. Having acquired similar sentiment from another fellow Belgian enthusiast long familiar with her tasteful designs, I hold doubly firm in my conclusions.
Food wise, Coasters specializes in pub grub and darn good pub grub at that. As our glasses slowly emptied, so too did our helpings of spinach artichoke dip and chips with salsa and cheese. Between the beers and the nibblies, Laura and mine inner Burgundians were duly sated.
Sharing in the jolly festivities (albeit at a different table) was fellow burgundian-in-arms, Jim Masterson. Other Veroites also made the trek northward to savor three days of beers and pubbery during the weekend of February 11th. We only made it up to Melbourne for the 12th but twas a Saturday night well spent. With midnight creeping round the bend, we cruised south along the mystical route of A1A to hearth and home. Love in hand, heart and belly sated, soul aglow, life was truly good. With another successful Belgian Beer Fest under their belt, I look forward to seeing how in 2012 Coasters bests themselves at the Burgundian game of life.
(an original written work by Kristyn Lier. plagiarism is not tolerated)
Beer For Life @ Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
**Be sure to reserve your spot for a night of Belgian revelry with Kristyn Lier ~ Beer Ambassador of the Free World, Jivin' Jim, and a line-up of tasty brews the likes of which you will gladly savor. Scrumptious nibblies will of course be provided and along with a full belly, you will go home knowing that your burgundian indulgence helped raise money for Cancer Research at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. See you there!!!**
WOB Viera News
Wells & Young's Meet and Greet!
Tomorrow,Thursday March 10th, the head brewmasters from Wells & Young's will be here for a meet and greet at 5 pm. They will be speaking about Wells and Young's, brewing in general, and will then follow up with a Q&A. Wells Bombardier and Young's Double Chocolate Stout will on draft as well as Well's Banana Bread in the bottle. They came all the way from England so don't miss this chance to meet them.
St. Patrick's Day!
Don't go anywhere else for your pint of Irish heaven, come to World of Beer on Thursday, March 17th, to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! We will be featuring beer specials with our favorite Irish imports. $4 Irish pints, $3 Harpoon Celtic Ale pints, $2 O'Hara's Irish Red and $1 Irish beer shots. Also we will have complimentary food at 6pm that includes corn beef & cabbage, and shepard's pie. The Brevard Police & Fire Pipe & Drum will be by in the 7 pm hour playing all your favorite Irish Music. Live Music with Matt Adkins & Jay DiBella starts at 9 pm. Cheers!
Beer 102!
Saturday March 26th, the president of the home brewers club will be back to expand your knowledge even further on how to brew beer. Also you will be tasting the batch of beer from the last class. Beer kits will be available for purchase. We had a great turn out from the last come early to get your seat on the patio. Class starts at 1 pm on the so don't be late!
Bracket Challenge!
It is time to register for the bracket challenge for March Madness. The challenge runs from March 14th to April 5th. Submit your bracket prediction for all (63) games in the Men's tournament after the teams are announced for a chance to win weekly local prizes and an overall grand prize of a $200 WOB gift card. Click here for more details.
New Bottles
New Drafts
Live Music This Week
Tomorrow,Thursday March 10th, the head brewmasters from Wells & Young's will be here for a meet and greet at 5 pm. They will be speaking about Wells and Young's, brewing in general, and will then follow up with a Q&A. Wells Bombardier and Young's Double Chocolate Stout will on draft as well as Well's Banana Bread in the bottle. They came all the way from England so don't miss this chance to meet them.
St. Patrick's Day!
Don't go anywhere else for your pint of Irish heaven, come to World of Beer on Thursday, March 17th, to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! We will be featuring beer specials with our favorite Irish imports. $4 Irish pints, $3 Harpoon Celtic Ale pints, $2 O'Hara's Irish Red and $1 Irish beer shots. Also we will have complimentary food at 6pm that includes corn beef & cabbage, and shepard's pie. The Brevard Police & Fire Pipe & Drum will be by in the 7 pm hour playing all your favorite Irish Music. Live Music with Matt Adkins & Jay DiBella starts at 9 pm. Cheers!
Beer 102!
Saturday March 26th, the president of the home brewers club will be back to expand your knowledge even further on how to brew beer. Also you will be tasting the batch of beer from the last class. Beer kits will be available for purchase. We had a great turn out from the last come early to get your seat on the patio. Class starts at 1 pm on the so don't be late!
Bracket Challenge!
It is time to register for the bracket challenge for March Madness. The challenge runs from March 14th to April 5th. Submit your bracket prediction for all (63) games in the Men's tournament after the teams are announced for a chance to win weekly local prizes and an overall grand prize of a $200 WOB gift card. Click here for more details.
New Bottles
- Erdinger N/A, .05% (Germany)
- Erie Drake's Crude, 6.9% (Pennsylvania)
- Great Divide Hercules Double IPA, 9% (Colorado)
- Great Divide Titan IPA, 7.1% (Colorado)
- Greens Gluten-Free Amber, 6% (Belgium)
- Radeberger Pils, 4.8% (Germany)
New Drafts
- Erie Drake's Crude, 6.9% (Pennsylvania)
- Victory Headwaters, 5.1% (Pennsylvania)
Live Music This Week
- Thursday - Groove Box
- Friday - Luis Rexach
- Saturday - Adam Moreno
Friday, March 04, 2011
Cigar City Brew News
Now on Tap:
Guest Taps:
Cask:
The Papaya IPA was just released yesterday, we have this available on draft at the tasting room and available in 750mL bottles. This beer was brewed as a fund-raising effort to benefit the Florida Brewer's Guild and their tireless support of small breweries right here in Florida. It will also be on tap tomorrow at the FBG Fest which is sure to be a blast! We should have some more Peach IPA back on tap for next week and Ben has been cranking beers out on our pilot system many of which will be hitting the taps soon too.
Don't forget about Hunaphu's Release Party coming up next Saturday. We should be updating the blog again in the next day or two with a tap list.
Cheers!
The CCB Crew
- Jai- Alai IPA
- Papaya IPA
- Pineapple-Lychee IPA
- Maduro Brown Ale
- Vanilla Maduro
- Cubano Espresso
- Jose Marti Porter
- El Lector Dark Mild
- Patio Tools Dry Irish Stout
- East India Spiced Porter
Guest Taps:
- Florida Beer Company SwampApe IPA
- Swamphead Cottonmouth Belgian Wheat Ale
Cask:
- Coconut Cocoa Dry Irish Stout - We will tap this around 5pm today.
The Papaya IPA was just released yesterday, we have this available on draft at the tasting room and available in 750mL bottles. This beer was brewed as a fund-raising effort to benefit the Florida Brewer's Guild and their tireless support of small breweries right here in Florida. It will also be on tap tomorrow at the FBG Fest which is sure to be a blast! We should have some more Peach IPA back on tap for next week and Ben has been cranking beers out on our pilot system many of which will be hitting the taps soon too.
Don't forget about Hunaphu's Release Party coming up next Saturday. We should be updating the blog again in the next day or two with a tap list.
Cheers!
The CCB Crew
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
WOB Viera News
Bracket Challenge!
It is time to register for the bracket challenge for March Madness. The challenge runs from March 14th to April 5th. Submit your bracket prediction for all (63) games in the Men's tournament after the teams are announced for a chance to win weekly local prizes and an overall grand prize of a $200 WOB gift card. Click here for more details.
Early Morning Project!
This Saturday, March 5th stay up late to catch Early Morning Project. The Tampa based duo will be performing at 9 pm that includes the production manager of the Blue Man Group from Las Vegas and our very own Just Dave. Come see this dynamic percussionist perform. Leading up to the highlight of the night, Chris will use his percussion talents on our empty beer kegs which will bring the house down. See you Saturday!
Customer Appreciation Day!
This Sunday, March 6th, is Liquid Aloha Day as well as Customer Appreciation Day! We are pulling out the barbecues for hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken and vegetables for all of customers. Also an ambassador from Kona Brewering Company will be here for our summer give aways at 4 pm. Grilling starts at 1:30 pm till the food is gone. Stop by, grab a great beer, grab some food and finish your weekend at WOB!
Mardi Gras!
This Tuesday March 8th it time to party. We will have $3 Abita drafts and great giveaways such as shirts, beads and more beads. Let's bring a little of New Orleans to Melbourne and have some fun!
Wells & Young's Meet and Greet!
Thursday March 10th, come meet the head brew master from Wells & Young's. The Brew Master will be here at 5 pm speaking about Wells and Young's, brewing in general, and will then follow up with a Q&A. Wells Bombardier and Young's Double Chocolate Stout on draft as well as Well's Banana Bread in the bottle. What a great beer week! Mark your calendar now.
New Bottles
New Drafts
Live Music This Week
It is time to register for the bracket challenge for March Madness. The challenge runs from March 14th to April 5th. Submit your bracket prediction for all (63) games in the Men's tournament after the teams are announced for a chance to win weekly local prizes and an overall grand prize of a $200 WOB gift card. Click here for more details.
Early Morning Project!
This Saturday, March 5th stay up late to catch Early Morning Project. The Tampa based duo will be performing at 9 pm that includes the production manager of the Blue Man Group from Las Vegas and our very own Just Dave. Come see this dynamic percussionist perform. Leading up to the highlight of the night, Chris will use his percussion talents on our empty beer kegs which will bring the house down. See you Saturday!
Customer Appreciation Day!
This Sunday, March 6th, is Liquid Aloha Day as well as Customer Appreciation Day! We are pulling out the barbecues for hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken and vegetables for all of customers. Also an ambassador from Kona Brewering Company will be here for our summer give aways at 4 pm. Grilling starts at 1:30 pm till the food is gone. Stop by, grab a great beer, grab some food and finish your weekend at WOB!
Mardi Gras!
This Tuesday March 8th it time to party. We will have $3 Abita drafts and great giveaways such as shirts, beads and more beads. Let's bring a little of New Orleans to Melbourne and have some fun!
Wells & Young's Meet and Greet!
Thursday March 10th, come meet the head brew master from Wells & Young's. The Brew Master will be here at 5 pm speaking about Wells and Young's, brewing in general, and will then follow up with a Q&A. Wells Bombardier and Young's Double Chocolate Stout on draft as well as Well's Banana Bread in the bottle. What a great beer week! Mark your calendar now.
New Bottles
- Brewdog Paradox Spring Bank, 10% (Scotland)
- Hoppin Frog Silk Porter, 6.2% (Ohio)
- Red Brick Helles Bock, 6.7% (Georgia)
- Terrapin Rye Squared, 9.5% (Georgia)
New Drafts
- He'Brew Genesis Ale, 5.9% (New York)
- Kona Fire Rock Pale Ale, 5.9% (Hawaii)
- Widmer Pitch Black, 6.5% (Oregon)
Live Music This Week
- Thursday - Adam Isgitt
- Friday - Christian Wilson Duo
- Saturday - Early Morning Project
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