Long, long ago there was a website similar to HBR, with a similar goal to try the worst of the worst to the best of the best, but with no preference between. They once wrote of a review of this tequila comparing its perfection to Keira Knightley in that there’s no single aspect that makes it perfect, but the entire thing – oh yes. While we may be harsher critics than they, it’s hard to deny they were on to something.
Oude Bae: 6.5 – It really captures the fact that this isn’t a sour meant to remind you of grapes, but that really there’s just a bunch of grapes in here. Overall the beer is a nice sour, but it goes that rose/champagne route a little too much and there’s only the semblance of a beer/wine balance here. It is still tasty though.
Price Average: $12 for 4-pack cans
Website: http://www.stillwater-artisanal.com/
We originally tried this as the recent Whiskey America Day Special and knew we had to get it into the review banks. We then however totally forgot which version we gave an intial A- too, and picked up the 110 Proof for funsies. While we’re almost certain this is not the same dram, that A- rating may show up again in some form.
Cinq Cent: 6.0 – It has got a copper kind of taste. There’s a nice malt and overall the flavour is okay but now worth the traditional hype of Trappist ales. The other problem is the amount of head. This was one of the few times a cork given a mere second or two of negligence decided to pop off on its own.
Price Average: $12
Website: http://chimay.com/us/
You would think having reviewed things with the word Presidente, that a mere mayor would know their place. However this tequila thinks it deserves your vote, but it will never get ours. Between the bullshit awards, the burn afterkick, and the fact we’d never buy this again – strap in folks.
BDG1: 7.5 – it’s mellow, and well spiced but does not have that super gravity feeling that many spiced/mellow beers have. It’s really really good. Overall this is a great entry into the revival of an old style.
Price Average: $14
Website: http://www.transmitterbrew.com/
Noblesse Oblige: 4.5 – It’s very upfront and there’s a nice citrus to it. The hop elements are powerful but not overpowering. Compared to the beer later this week of the same type it’s simply not as good, but the style has shown a lot of promise that we wish more made them. (Also Schwarzbier please)
Price Average: $12
Website: https://jesterkingbrewery.com/
Another day, another short batch style American vodka made from the humble potato. Now to make one thing clear – while this might come from some blue ice (doubtful in Idaho), the vodka is not blue. If that leaves you feeling blue, however – perk up, because this mixes like a champ.
