tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41944072129681771312024-03-12T21:40:49.774-07:00Nashville Beer Geek - Beer Reviews - News - EventsYour online guide to the Nashville Beer SceneSmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.comBlogger194125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-21268587905301008272015-11-09T10:29:00.001-08:002015-11-09T10:29:30.011-08:00Bells Brewery Launch Week Has Begun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rj0bqNXJX_A/VkDjyubGXEI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/5C4wkyi6MiI/s1600/bells.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rj0bqNXJX_A/VkDjyubGXEI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/5C4wkyi6MiI/s320/bells.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Hey craft addicts. I am still alive. Besides, who reads beer blogs when you have social media? The reason I came out of hibernation it to announces that Bells is now in Tennessee! As a Midwest native who has been drinking craft beer since 1990, I could not be more excited. <br />
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Many thanks to Curt and staff at Bounty Bev for landing them. My wallet is about to be a lot lighter. <br />
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As we speak, there are 14 taps on at 5 Points Pizza in East Nashville. There is a launch party at Craft Brewed at 5pm (I will be there with my Bells shirt). Tomorrow there is a tap takeover at 12 South Taproom. <br />
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For more information on launch week, visit this Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/935418636504379/" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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Now back to work. I am drooling on my keyboard as I think about a Fresh Two Hearted Ale that awaits me. <br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-19484528987906188792015-02-06T14:50:00.000-08:002015-02-06T14:50:16.702-08:00Tailgate Beer Taproom Grand Opening - Feb. 7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.phelanriessen.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/logo-tailgate-beer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.phelanriessen.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/logo-tailgate-beer.jpg" height="115" width="200" /></a></div>
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I have been watching the progress of the <a href="http://tailgatebeer.com/nashville-news/" target="_blank">Tailgate Beer Tasting Room</a> and it appears that they are ready to go. Not only will they have their own beers on tap, they have several local and regional beers as well. About 20 taps in all. It's definitely worth your time to check it out. <br />
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They will be open 12-11pm. There will be brewery tours throughout the day, along with performance from local artists. Sadly I have to work, but I may be able to swing by later in the evening. <br />
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Address is 7300 Charlotte Pike, Nashville Tennessee 37209.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-21809245690507914222014-12-09T08:39:00.004-08:002014-12-09T08:54:26.494-08:0012 Percent Imports To Land in Nashville!<a href="http://www.12percentimports.com/" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1418142017136_391"><img alt="12 Percent Imports" src="http://static.squarespace.com/static/525d6845e4b056c7e2aa22c8/t/525d75f3e4b0fe5f668808a8/1409319880440/?format=1500w" height="200" width="188" /></a><br />
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Hey craftheads! I am out of hibernation! To be honest, this blog is really more of a landing page/directory. Unless I want to post articles that agitate beer drinkers in order to get click revenue, there is no purpose for a traditional style beer blog. Social media gets the news out before I can get to the keyboard. So make sure all of you followers are in the facebook groups <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/77887267051/" target="_blank">Nashville Beer Geek</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/306256239397638/" target="_blank">Nashville Craft Beer Aficionados</a>.<br />
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I have some exciting news from my good fried <strong>Shea Pearsful</strong>, who is the portfolio manager at <strong>Delerium Wine and Spirits</strong>. Yes folks, <strong>12 Percent Imports</strong> is coming to the Nashville area. That means we will be getting <strong>Against the Grain, Stillwater,Evil Twin, Off Color, Omnipollo Tilquin, Hoften Dormal</strong>, and <strong>Local Option</strong>. And yes, Shea will be working hard to get allocations for limited releases. Look for this stuff to start hitting shelves Thursday.
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There will be two tap takeover events coming soon, so check the facebook group for update. There will be a 12 tap takeover at <strong>Hop Stop</strong>, and a 6 tap takeover at <strong>12 South Tap Room</strong>. <br />
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Our beer scene continues to grow and thrive thanks to all of you craft addicts.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-2613346461995413082014-03-15T14:49:00.000-07:002014-03-15T14:53:01.822-07:00FOUNDERS BREWING CO. EXPANDS DISTRIBUTION TO TENNESSEE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://boozedancing.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/founders-reds-rye-pa1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boozedancing.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/founders-reds-rye-pa1.png" /></a></div>
Yo craft addicts. Yes folks, I have been hibernating for quite a long time. But don't forget, I am Nashville's laziest beer blogger. Accept no substitutes. There is so much going on, so I strongly suggest you follow the <b>Nashville Beer Geek</b> facebook group in addition to <b>Nashville Craft Beer Aficionados</b>. I promise you will stay more current than this blog.
So what awakened me from my long nap? Founders! Yes they are coming to Tennessee. I had to change my underwear when I saw the following email in my inbox:
<blockquote>Founders Beer Will Be Available in Volunteer State in April 2014
<i>GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 14, 2014 - Founders Brewing Co. announced today that it is expanding its distribution territory to include the Volunteer State, with a network of distributors slated to represent the brand across almost the entire state of Tennessee beginning in April.
“We’ve been distributing in most of the states surrounding Tennessee for years,” said Co-Founder and CEO Mike Stevens. “Beer enthusiasts in Tennessee have been growing the craft beer scene, and they’ve been patient with us. We’re excited to be able to bring our beer to them.”
Founders distribution coverage will include the four major metropolitan areas of Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga and Knoxville. Residents of Tennessee can expect to find Founders’ year-round and seasonal products on draft in the first shipment. Bottles will begin arriving in the next shipment, and specialty releases will follow the brewery’s release schedule from there.
Founders recently announced distribution in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana in addition to Tennessee, bringing the brewery’s total distribution footprint to 31 states. For a list of all the states in which Founders is available and the brewery’s 2014 availability calendar, visit foundersbrewing.com</i>
</blockquote>
Folks, <b>Founders Reds Rye</b> is one of my desert island beers. It's simply the most drinkable rye pale ale on the planet. Another Michigan brewery <b>New Holland</b> launched yesterday at Flying Saucer. Now all we need is <b>Bell's</b> to come to TN for the trifecta. The craft beer pool is getting crowded, but I sure as hell don't mind. Until next time (hopefully some time this year), stay safe and don't let me catch you drinking shitty beer.
Cheers,
Smitty
Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-6324812622895196802013-06-04T20:35:00.001-07:002013-12-15T17:00:15.034-08:00Picnic® Summer Ale from Blackstone Brewing Co.® Returns <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SAZgTUWzcLs/Ua6xtpW-t9I/AAAAAAAAAg4/zFgMt2ArLzY/s1600/picnic_packaging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SAZgTUWzcLs/Ua6xtpW-t9I/AAAAAAAAAg4/zFgMt2ArLzY/s200/picnic_packaging.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong>Smitty's Review:</strong><br />
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<em>This pours a clear straw golden with a white head. Fruity and herbal nose. Lighter side of medium bodied with average carbonation. Initial flavor of cereal-like pale malts, which really came across more German in character than English. Dry finish with a lingering grassy and herbal bitterness. Extremely smooth and clean for an ale. If you are into California Commons and hop forward Pilsners, this seems like a blend of the two. Very good, simple, and perfect for those hot days or summer cookouts. </em><br />
<em></em><br />
<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><strong>Press Release:</strong></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Just in time to enjoy on summer’s
hottest days,</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Blackstone Brewing Company®, brewer of award-winning
ales since 1994, has brought Picnic</span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">®</span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">, an
English-style summer ale, back to Middle Tennessee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blackstone, which has operated Nashville’s
oldest brewpub since 1994, opened a state-of-the art brewing and bottling
facility in mid-2011.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Picnic</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">®</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> is described as a<strong> </strong></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">lighter
version of a classic Pale Ale that retains the wonderful flavors and aromas of
British Pale Ale malt and hops, while using a significant portion of wheat for
a lighter body and crisp finish. Blackstone brewed Picnic<strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">® </span></strong>with
imported barley malt and hops from Great Britain to create this authentic ale. First
introduced in summer 2012, Picnic<strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">®</span></strong> was selected by </span><a href="http://www.craftbeer.com/pages/stories/craft-beer-muses/show?title=the-beers-of-summermdash-craft-beers-summer-seasonals"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: blue;">CraftBeer.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> to be
featured in its “Beers of Summer - Craft Beer’s Summer Seasonals.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">“</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Picnic<strong><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">®</span></strong>
is a great beer; it is a hot weather refresher that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or
character,” said <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Stephanie
Weins, co-owner of Blackstone Brewing Co.®<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></o:p></span><br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Picnic</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">® </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">is available for a limited time,
both on draft and in bottles, at bars and stores in the Nashville, Clarksville,
Knoxville, and east Tennessee areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #6f3f11; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 12.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #6f3f11; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">About Blackstone Restaurant & Brewery<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">®</span>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: 160.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Opened in 1994, Blackstone
Restaurant & Brewery<b>®</b> is Nashville’s oldest and most popular
brewpub. Blackstone award-winning craft beers <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Chaser Pale<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">®</span>, Nut Brown
Ale, American Pale Ale</b> and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">St.
Charles Porter</b>® are brewed at both the brewpub and at the new,
state-of-the-art, brewing and bottling facility, Blackstone Brewing Company<b>®</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chaser Pale<b>®,</b> Nut Brown Ale and St.
Charles Porter® have been awarded medals at both the Great American Beer
Festival and the World Beer Cup; St. Charles Porter® is the most award-winning
Brown Porter in the history of the Great American Beer Festival. Visit </span><a href="http://www.blackstonebrewery.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.blackstonebrewery.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> for
additional information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-28949360323910471712013-05-16T17:27:00.000-07:002013-12-15T17:00:45.983-08:00May 2013 -New Brews and Other News<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cdznu-1mJtw/UZVsDB26bxI/AAAAAAAAAgo/qIlK0VK6nhs/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cdznu-1mJtw/UZVsDB26bxI/AAAAAAAAAgo/qIlK0VK6nhs/s1600/collage.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hello craft addicts. I am back…for now. It is I, Nashville’s
laziest beer blogger. Accept no substitutes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> I</span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> have not been out much because work has just been crazy.
What I can tell you is that <strong>Southern Tier Plum Noir</strong> and<strong> 2x Steam</strong>, <strong>Lagunitas
Imperial Stout</strong>, and <strong>Highland Imperial Kashmir IPA</strong> hit the shelves. It’s
probably too late, but if you can still find some<strong> Straight to Ale
Gorillanaught</strong>, it gets the hop head’s seal of approval. If there are any
<strong>Brandon Jones' </strong>beers left at the <strong>Yazoo</strong> tap room, I’d suggest you get over there right
now. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Speaking of <strong>Brandon Jones,</strong> the first annual <strong>Yazoo Funk Fest</strong>
was a phenomenal success. If you were not there, too funkin bad. What did you miss? <span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><strong>Yazoo 100% Brett Custersianus Amarillo Double Hopped Ale,
Yazoo Lichtenhainer Style Ale, Yazoo 100% Brett Fermented Hibiscus Ale, Yazoo
Wild Child , Yazoo Sour Cherry, Yazoo Drie Day - 100% Brett Fermented Ale aged
Grand Marnier Oak, Yazoo Brett Horyezons - 100% Brett Fermented Ale aged Rye
Whisky Barrel, and Yazoo/New Belgium Rufus</strong></span>. That’s just the Yazoo beers.
The guest beer list was outstanding! Too many to list, but off the top of my head there was <strong>Cantillon
100% Lambic Bio, Oude Gueuze Tilquin, Russian River Consecration, Rodenbach
Grand Cru, Orval, Saison Dupont, Panil Bariquee, Jolly Pumpkin Bam Biere, Samiclaus, Drie
Fonteinen Oude Gueuze, Leifman’s Goudenbond, Lost Abbey Saint’s Devotion</strong>, and
more. <strong>The Bloomy Rind</strong> brought some great cheeses. My favorites were Cabot
Clothbound Cheddar, Hop Devil, and Widmer. We had free access to roam around the
brewery and check out the new barrel room. An added bonus was that it was not
crowded(although that will change next year, now that the cat’s out of the bag).
Brandon and Linus brought their A game for the sourheads. You all have to take
your hats off to<strong> Linus Hall</strong>.The guy took his life savings and built Yazoo up to
what it is now. He lead the charge on the new beer tax overhaul legislation, brought
Brandon Jones on to start a barrel and sour program, and held the first sour
beer festival in town. Nashville is so lucky that he set up shop here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nashville’s craft beer boom continues at a pleasantly
alarming rate. I ran into <strong>Black</strong> <strong>Abbey</strong>’s Carl Meier at <strong>Cool Springs Brewery</strong>. He
tells me that August or September is their targeted opening date. We are in for
a real treat when they come online. <strong>Czann’s Brewing Co</strong>. beers are starting to
make appearance at various bars.<strong> Tennessee Brew Works</strong> is inching closer to
their opening. Last I heard, they are targeting for some time in June. <strong>Honkey
Tonk Brewing company</strong> applied for their beer permits for wholesaler and on/off
premise. <strong>Little Harpeth Brewing</strong> is under construction as well and is slated to
open sometime this summer.<strong> Jackalope, Fat Bottom</strong>, and <strong>Mayday</strong> are expanding
capacity. I should just get on the liver transplant list now. This is nuts.
Just five years ago, I was scrounging for ANY Nashville craft beer news. Now I
can’t keep up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back to <strong>Cool Springs Brewery</strong>. I stopped by for lunch and to
sample the <strong>Shaft Black IPA</strong> and the <strong>CircumSaison</strong> (an 8% saison with Mosaic
hops). Both were excellent. And their pizza lunch buffet is a great deal at
$8.99. I wish it were closer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You really need to check out <strong>Craft Brewed</strong> <strong>Nashville</strong>’s high
gravity store. Ryan did an awesome job. They have a great selection that is
VERY WELL organized. No tucking the beers in the corner or wherever there is a
spare square foot of floor space. Plus the hop forward beers are refrigerated. We already know that the low gravity side is a kick ass place to enjoy a beer, shop for six packs and singles, and fill a growler. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Rhizome Productions</strong> Brew At The Zoo will be held on May 31<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>.
Tickets are available <a href="http://rhizomeproductions.com/craft-events/brew-at-the-zoo-nashville-may-31-2103/" target="_blank">here</a>. And you know if <strong>Matt Leff</strong> is involved, it won’t
suck. Unfortunately I will be gone that weekend. It seems that all of his
events are held when I am out of town. Is this planned? Hmmm<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That’s it for now. It’s now back to work selling marching band stuff online. Until next time- cheers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Smitty <o:p></o:p></span><br />
Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-75461981184513636572013-03-17T08:49:00.003-07:002013-12-15T17:00:53.677-08:00Nashville Craft Beer Week <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.nashvillescene.com/imager/second-annual-nashville-craft-beer-week-looks-to-be-even-bigger-and-better/b/big/3254282/899f/1359603185-ncbw_logo_spot-01_opt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.nashvillescene.com/imager/second-annual-nashville-craft-beer-week-looks-to-be-even-bigger-and-better/b/big/3254282/899f/1359603185-ncbw_logo_spot-01_opt.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
Howdy craft addicts. I am down in Florida drinking Bells, Cigar City, Cascade, and more. But I feel that it's my duty to remind you that Nashville Craft Beer starts tomorrow. <a href="http://rhizomeproductions.com/craft-events/nashville-craft-beer-week-march-18-24-2013/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for a calendar of events. Lots of cool stuff going on.<b> Matt Leff</b> of <b>Rhizome Productions </b>did a wonderful job coordinating things this year. Off to the pool. <br />
<br />
Cheers!<br />
<br />
Smitty<br />
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Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-44183456347296921332013-02-05T21:05:00.000-08:002013-12-15T17:01:00.656-08:00Interview with Brandon Jones of Embrace the Funk<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj5L59nQGks/URHjNYGpAxI/AAAAAAAAAgA/gFgvaJfEyTE/s1600/brandon+jones+brewer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj5L59nQGks/URHjNYGpAxI/AAAAAAAAAgA/gFgvaJfEyTE/s1600/brandon+jones+brewer.jpg" /></a>For those of you who are active in the Nashville craft beer scene, you proabably know <strong>Brandon Jones</strong>. If you don't, you really need to get out more often. He is an avid beer hunter/trader and is constantly acquiring and tasting beers from around the world. He is the man behind the blog <a href="http://embracethefunk.com/" target="_blank">Embrace the Funk</a>, and has obtained interviews with the world's top brewers. Did I mention that he can brew? If not, now you know. The guy earned Tennessee homebrewer of the year in 2012. He had a text from <strong>Hill Farmstead's</strong> Shaun Hill comparing one of his sours to THE <strong>Russian River</strong>. Have I hyped him up enough? If so, good. To put it simply, his beers are great. In fact, I am drinking his Berliner Weiss from a 24 ounce bottle as I type (because I am too lazy to get a glass). <br />
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For those who have not tried any of his creations, the opportunity is coming soon. You heard right. He is now running the barrel program at <strong>Yazoo!</strong> Since I am Nashville's laziest blogger, I am going to stop here and past the interview, and let you all read for yourselves. Cheers! <em>- <strong>Smitty</strong></em><br />
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<span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> Congrats on getting TN Homebrewer of the Year .</span><br />
<strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> Thanks! That was quite an honor to finish out entering home brewing competitions on such a high note. It’s neat to know so many different judges in different cities thought enough of the beers I was trying to create. I’m still going to brew at home, but no more comps…which frees me up to judge the Sour Ale category now.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> What exactly is your role at Yazoo and how did that come about?</span><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> First I have to say I truly am ecstatic to have the chance to create sour and wild beers at Yazoo. All the people there just kick ass and are very good at what they do, so for me to get the chance to learn from each them is awesome. I’m not sure what or if I have an official title, although a few of us have jokingly said “Funk Wrangler”. But basically I oversee the Sour and Wild beer program. Which is pretty much anything from acquiring barrels, to sourcing different bacteria strains, to working with Linus on recipe formulation, to brewing, to sensory analysis for the beers. I’m lucky enough to have great support from all the Yazoo crew to help me with the program since this part operates on a bit of a weird schedule and is housed in a separate part of the brewery.I guess the Embrace the Funk part of the program officially came about this past summer. Yazoo already had success earlier in the year with Fortuitous (wow that release party was crazy fun!) so the market was definitely primed for locally produced sour beers. Linus and I have known each other for a few years and he’s tasted some of my beers from time to time. He’s read the tech articles and pro brewer interviews I’ve written on Embrace The Funk. So he and I had talked last spring at the City House Secret Beer Dinner (where I served my straight Lambic and Citra dry hopped Lambic) about sour beers, then the next day at the East Nashville Beer Festival we talked for a few minutes about possibly brewing something funky. So fast forward to summer when I had this funky barrel that was just emptied and needed to be filled. He and I came up with a plan for the beer and filled the barrel. About a month later and some initial tastings he asked me if I would like to team up with Yazoo for a sour/wild beer program….and of course that was a big fat Yes! A few weeks later I would ordering barrels and having cultures stepped up for Yazoo Embrace The Funk Series. It’s been a lot of fun gathering up equipment and building a sour beer program for Yazoo. I’m really excited to help bring these styles to Nashville.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty</strong>: Can you elaborate on different barrels you currently have set up?</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> Right now we have a Lambic style (hit the barrels in September), Flanders Red (hit the barrels in November), and a 100% Brettanomyces Brown Ale (hit the barrels in December). The 100% Brett is the most recent one I did. It’s currently aging in some amazing Port wine barrels from Arrington Vineyards. <br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> So what beers do you have planned with Yazoo in 2013 what are the target dates for release?</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> I’m still finalizing the plan, most of it will depend on what barrels I’m able to get. There are a couple specific types I’m aiming for, so hopefully they will become available. I think the 100% Brett beer will be ready in March.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> Will these be bottled?</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> Some will be bottled, but right now a lot of them will be draft only. I’ve got a few that will be very small batches only available at the taproom. <span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> Distribution or brewpub only?</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><strong>Brandon Jones:</strong>I think the plan is to release as many at the taproom as we can. <br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> Back in 2009, you brewed a special release at Yazoo titled "Brandon's Hop Blaster." Any chance that will make a comeback?</span> <br />
<strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> That was such an honor to brew a beer for Mark who was the brewer killed in a brewhouse accident at a Knoxville brewery. But I’m not sure what the chances of it coming back are, we’ve actually never talked about a re-brew…it had some great ratings on Ratebeer and sold out pretty quickly… since it was all late hops it might make a good Brett IPA Hop Project release…. LOL.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong> While Nashville has seen tremendous growth in craft beer, where do you think we are in regards to appreciation for brett beers and various sour styles?</span> <br />
<strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> I think in our area the appreciation and the want to appreciate is there. The beer drinker’s taste in Nashville is different now from where it was even 2 years ago. The main problems are education about these beer styles and easy access to the beers. Most people like the characteristics of sour/wild beers when they know what they are tasting and when they have good examples. One of my conversations with <strong>Lauren Salazar</strong> (who is the rock star blender at <strong>New Belgium</strong>) we were talking about initial sour beer tasting. She made a great point that stuck with me: A lot of people have in their head what “beer” tastes like and they are ready for one thing, but when they taste a sour beer for the first time they get something very different. Many times it’s really off putting and they never got the chance to decide if they like the style. So what I mean by the “want to appreciate” is there are a lot of craft beer fans and foodies in our area that want these exotic and sometimes delicate flavors in their beers, they have that desire to taste a locally made sour beer to see if they like it. So now that we have this program going our next step is to help educate, which has always been the number 1 goal of my website. The cool thing is I now get to continue helping to educate about sour/wild beer, but I now have at the same time a bigger stage and a more personal was of being able to do that thanks to Yazoo. <br />
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<span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Smitty:</strong>I know it's a rather generic question, but what's brewers had the biggest influence on you?</span> <br />
<strong>Brandon Jones:</strong> As far as sour and wild brewing it would be <strong>Vinnie Cilurzo</strong> of <strong>Russian River</strong>. He is one of the absolute kindest and most open brewers out there about his process/recipes. When I first got into sour brewing I emailed him a number of times and every time I got back an easy to understand answer that truly opened up new doors for me. He even gave me my first sour barrel. I’ve learned a lot directly from him and what he’s done at Russian River. I will forever be thankful for all the awesome advice I was able to get from a pioneer of American Wild beer. <br />
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></span><br />Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-10377416480989233302012-12-15T09:42:00.000-08:002012-12-17T12:55:50.674-08:00Blackstone Brewmaster Releases How-To Guide For Beer Lovers<strong><span style="color: black;"><em>This is a press release that I received and wanted to pass on. I have always been a fan of Blackstone and Dave Miller's work. - Smitty</em></span></strong><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_20ZCXJlPi4/UMy1EEN0nII/AAAAAAAAAfc/SL7SIb1UGZQ/s1600/BrewLikeAPro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_20ZCXJlPi4/UMy1EEN0nII/AAAAAAAAAfc/SL7SIb1UGZQ/s320/BrewLikeAPro.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dave
Miller is a legend among craft beer lovers. Two decades ago, he
authored one of the most influential homebrewing books ever released,
</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Dave
Miller’s Homebrewing Guide</i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">.
Since then, Miller has gone pro, as Brewmaster at the St. Louis
Brewing Company and then at Blackstone Restaurant and Brewery in
Nashville, Tennessee. His award-winning beer has earned international
recognition; Blackstone alone has won six World Beer Cups and eleven Great American Beer Festival Awards.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now,
Miller returns to the home brewery, this time with professional
insights. In </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Brew
Like a</b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>
</b></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Pro</b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">,
Miller shares the secrets of great draft and pub-style brewing, just
like the experts do it. Drawing the best techniques and practices
from the pub brewery, Miller includes complete setup plans for a home
system that requires just 18 square feet, and he offers recipes for
small batches of classic, all-grain brews that stay fresh in kegs for
months, eliminating the need for messy bottling.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UQFtIIKGspU/UMy1YrJy8PI/AAAAAAAAAfk/o_dt42zBPf0/s1600/Dave+Miller+(c)+Jeff+Frazier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UQFtIIKGspU/UMy1YrJy8PI/AAAAAAAAAfk/o_dt42zBPf0/s200/Dave+Miller+(c)+Jeff+Frazier.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miller
starts by explaining why he uses only all-grain brewing, rather than
substituting malt extract, to make superior–tasting beer. He then
delves into everything the reader needs to set up an efficient
all-grain home brewery and a draft system for serving fresh, cold
beer. From the brew kettle, to the mash/lauter tun and hot liquor
back, Miller details everything needed while avoiding expensive,
unnecessary equipment. </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Brew
Like a Pro</b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">
includes descriptions of brewing necessities such as quality
ingredients and the best cleaning and sanitizing products, followed
by explanations of brewing operations. Step-by-step instructions for
building the 5-gallon home brewery are then complemented by recipes
for popular ale styles that are easy to brew and suitable for
beginning all-grain brewers.</span></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miller’s
conversational tone, insider tips, and clear instructions make
pro-quality brewing as easy as it is enjoyable. Readers who are ready
to take their craft to the next level will be delighted to find a
clear, concise how-to guide in </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Brew
Like a Pro</b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Brew
Like a Pro</b></i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dave
Miller</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Storey
Publishing, December 2012</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Two-color,
illustrations throughout</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">272
pages, 6½" x 9" </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">$18.95
paper, ISBN 978-1-61212-050-8</span></span><br />
<br />Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-75456047582605660432012-12-08T17:36:00.001-08:002012-12-08T17:42:09.780-08:00December - New Brews and Other News<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_Z0PCH9QBE/UMPqm9gdXcI/AAAAAAAAAfA/O7nqe5Hqubw/s1600/305944_10152308270425177_1038478234_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_Z0PCH9QBE/UMPqm9gdXcI/AAAAAAAAAfA/O7nqe5Hqubw/s200/305944_10152308270425177_1038478234_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Geez. Where do I start? So much going in the Nashville craft beer scene. Let's start with a wrap-up of the 2nd Annual <strong>12 South Winter Warmer</strong>. <strong>Matt Leff</strong> at <a href="http://www.rhizomeproductions.com/">Rhizome Productions</a> continues to hit home runs with his beer festivals. It was so well-organized with so so many great beers. So many that I had palate fatigue by 2pm. Some of my favorites were<strong> Country Boy Barrel-aged Papaw's Imperial Red</strong>, <strong>Olde Hickory Event Horizon</strong>, <strong>Schlafly Black IPA</strong>, <strong>Calfkiller Christmas Bonus</strong>, and <strong>Green Flash/Cigar City Candela Rye</strong>. As far as sours go, I really enjoyed <strong>Rivertown Ville de River</strong> and <strong>Lucky Bucket Kriek</strong>. The best multi-faceted beer was <strong>Yazoo Wild Child</strong> (a collaboration with Brandon Jones). The extreme beer award goes to <strong>Cool Springs Brewery</strong> for the <strong>Scorpion King</strong>, which was a "chili beer" with Trinidad scorpion peppers. That floaty filled concoction packed some serious heat! I am sure that I am forgetting a few others, but I did not take notes this year. That is why I am Nashville's laziest beer blogger. <br />
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<strong>Lagunitas</strong> is supposed to be hitting the high gravity shelves next week. Be on the lookout for <strong>Lagunitas IPA</strong>, <strong>Hop Stoopid</strong>, <strong>Cappuccino Stout</strong>, <strong>Lil Sumpin</strong>, and <strong>Brown Sugga</strong>. Thank <strong>Cathy Bass</strong> at <strong>DET </strong>for bringing them to town. With <strong>Southern Tier</strong> (NY) coming in a few months back, it's been a good year for noobs. <br />
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I spoke with the guys from Indianapolis-based <strong>Flat 12 Brewery.</strong> They hope to be in distributing here around mid January. These folks know how to brew and get the Smitty stamp of approval. I am extremely excited about getting their <strong>Half Cycle IPA</strong>, which is <u>excellent</u>. I'll be drinking it by the gallons. It's that good.<br />
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If you are into growlers, there are two new options for filling up your glass. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheFillingStationNash">The Filling Station</a> at 1118 Halcyon offers about 25 taps, in addition to packaged craft beer. They offer 32 and 64 ounce fills. It's worth a visit if you are in the neighborhood. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheFillingStationNash#!/kaybobsgrill">Kay Bob's Grill and Ale</a> at 1602 21st Ave (Hillsboro Village/Vandy) just started offering growler fills. I have not been by to check it out, but I hear the prices are good. <br />
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<strong>Mayday Brewery</strong> in Murfreesboro is officially open. Tap room hours can be found on their <a href="http://maydaybrewery.com/">website</a>. I have not heard anything official as to when or where any kegs will make it into Nashville. For now, you just have to make the short trek to the Boro! Brewmaster "Wiz" Wisniewski brings his brewing experience from <strong>Goose Island</strong> and <strong>Two Brothers</strong> - so I am anxious to give their beers a try. Speaking of Goose Island, they have three of their flagship beers being distributed in Nashville. But what I am waiting for is the stuff coming out of their Fulton Street brewery. <br />
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<strong>Tennessee Brew Works</strong> is still shooting for a March opening. Location has yet to be determined. Follow the progress on their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/tnbrew?fref=ts">Facebook Page</a> or <a href="http://www.tnbrew.com/brewery">website</a>. In fact, their brewmaster is over in Belgium checking out the fabrication of their new equipment. <br />
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The <strong>Tennesse Craft Brewers Guild</strong> now has a <a href="http://www.tncraftbrewers.org/">website </a>. It's a non-profit organization with a mission of promoting and protecting craft brewers in Tennessee. I am glad to see this up and running, as this will also benefit us as consumers. Hopefully they can be successful in fixing some of these archaic beer laws and provide a level and profitable playing field for TN breweries. <br />
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That's it for now. I will amend this post if anything else comes up. If you are on Facebook, be sure to like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/groups/77887267051/">Nashville Beer Geek</a>, as well as <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/groups/306256239397638/">Nashville Craft Beer Aficionados</a>. Both groups are a great way to get the latest news, as well as get involved in the Nashville craft beer social scene. I have an Illini game to watch and some <strong>Schlafly Tasmanian IPA</strong> to drink. A second shipment arrived so I wanted to be sure I got mine before I let you in on it. Until next time - Hasta....<br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-77001411480325403412012-10-25T17:52:00.002-07:002012-10-25T17:53:33.349-07:0012 South Winter Warmer Tickets on Sale TomorrowThis is just a heads up for everyone to be at their computer at 9am CST tomorrow (10-26-12). Tickets are very limited due to the small size of this festival and they will sell out. The event will be held December 1st at Sevier Park. <br />
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<a href="http://www.12southwinterwarmer.com/">http://www.12southwinterwarmer.com/</a>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-74610709648772854112012-10-22T19:48:00.001-07:002012-10-22T20:05:43.909-07:00Beer Review- Schlafly Tasmanian IPA<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="http://schlafly.com/uploads/2012/09/27/tipa.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oea="true" src="http://schlafly.com/uploads/2012/09/27/tipa.png" width="174" /></a>Yeah yeah yeah. It has been a while and I have not been keeping up with the blog like I should. <strong>Brandon Jones</strong> of <a href="http://embracethefunk.com/">Embrace the Funk</a> had some fun pointing that out. But for those on <strong>Facebook</strong>- The <strong>Nashville Beer Geek</strong> page and <strong>Nashville Craft Beer Aficionados</strong> are a good way to stay current on the Nashville craft beer scene.</div>
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I figured that I would celebrate my reemergence with one of my favorite styles - IPA. It just so happens that <strong>Schlafly</strong> has just delivered their <strong>Tasmanian IPA</strong> to the Nashville market. This is single hop IPA using the Australian Galaxy hop, supported by a two row pale malt backbone. This sounds right up my alley.<br />
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Speaking of Schlafly....Schlafly beer dinner at Ruth's Chris this Wednesday. $75, includes tax & tip. Scott Shreffler & Stephen Hale, head brewer of Schlafly Tap Room will be guiding the pairings. Reserve your spot 615-320-0163 or salesnashville@ruthschris.com<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><strong>Schlafly Tasmanian IPA</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Saint Louis Brewery. -Maplewood, MO</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">ABV: 7% </span><br />
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<strong>Smitty's Review:</strong> Sampled at 45 degrees. Pours golden amber with a white head that dissipates to a ring. Just a tad darker than a typical Pilsner. The aroma is stellar- full of orange blossoms and pineapple. Medium bodied with average carbonation. The juicy hops bombard the palate right from the beginning, with citrus rind coming in mid palate. The attuenuation is perfect, not too dry but with enough residual sugars to compliment the galaxy hops. Extremely assertive and long bitter, resiny finish. Out of the fridge, I found the bitterness on the harsh side, but somewhere around 55 degrees it acheives perfect balance. <br />
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This is an outstanding single hop IPA. If you are into hoppy beers, this is a must try. I have had hundreds of IPAs, and this is upper echelon. For what it is, think it's perfect. I am told by retailers than it's moving fast. It's a limited release so don't wait.This beer will likely have a very short shelf life anyway, so the fresher the better. Worthy of a repeat buy. <br />
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• <strong>Rating*:</strong> 10 out of 10<br />
• <strong>Recommended Food Pairing:</strong> Mango salsa, marinated flank steak, Thai food, Carne Asada with pico de gallo<br />
• <strong>Beer Audience:</strong> Hop heads<br />
• <strong>Where to buy:</strong> High gravity craft beer specialty stores like Midtown, Frugal MacDoogal, J Barleycorn, Red Dog, Graces Plaza, etc. <br />
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<em>* rating system based on aroma (1 pt), appearance (1pt), palate (2 pts) flavor (3pts), comparison to other commercial examples of the style (3pts)</em><br />
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<br />Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-32914208324658250952012-07-20T17:54:00.002-07:002012-07-20T20:07:07.031-07:00I'm Baaaaaack<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IOYRTxf3Tr8/UAn9t34rivI/AAAAAAAAAdo/Mi_X359uuGg/s1600/rhizome.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IOYRTxf3Tr8/UAn9t34rivI/AAAAAAAAAdo/Mi_X359uuGg/s200/rhizome.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hello craft addicts. Yes, I am still alive and I still love
beer. The thing is- beer blogging pays nothing (at least for me). No cash. No
beer. Zilch. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, I only blog
when I am bored. Two jobs have kept me busy, but I did get a trip to NYC out of
it. I was able to visit <strong>Blind Tiger</strong>, <strong>Rattle and Hum</strong>,<strong> Pony Bar</strong>, and several
other notable beer bars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have been in and out of the loop, so hopefully I am not
forgetting anything. For starters, <strong>Turtle Anarchy</strong> is now open and kegs are
slowly making their way into distribution. I am hearing great things about <strong>Mike
Kraft’s</strong> flagship beers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Speaking of
Mike, <strong>Derrick Morse</strong> has taken Mike’s old position at <strong>Cool Springs Brewery</strong>, and
my fellow beer aficionados are raving about his beers as well. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Franklin is really making waves lately, so I
need to head out that way. I am sort of embarrassed that I have not already. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ohio-based <strong>Rivertown Brewing</strong> is now in distribution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for beers to trickle in on draft, and
eventually bottles. Sourheads be on the lookout for the unblended Lambic. It
was a big hit at the <strong>East Nashville Beer Festival</strong>. Not only that, when I was in
Dayton back in April, that was the most requested beer to bring back to the Nashville
crew. I brought back more than a case. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Nashville craft beer scene continues to grow, and I
think good portion of that growth can be attributed to <strong>Matt Leff</strong> at <strong>Rhizome
Productions</strong>. His first rate events are exposing more people to craft beer, and
his social media proficiency has helped unite beer aficionados around the area.
He is keeping quite busy. Don’t believe me? On August 17<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, tickets
go on sale for the <strong>Nashville Whiskey Festival</strong> (yeah it’s not beer, but they are
related). Visit <a href="http://nashvillewhiskyfestival.com/">nashvillewhiskyfestival.com</a> for more info. We are not done yet. We
have <strong>Beerfeast</strong>. That will be held on September 22 at the <strong>Flying Saucer</strong>, and
will feature 60 beers from over 40 brewers. Then there is this:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span class="messagebody2"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">OK ladies and gents. I have officially gotten Jeremy
Cowan founder of Shmaltz Brewing Company to come to Nashville! He will be doing
a speaking engagement/book tour on Sunday August 26th at the Gordon Jewish
Community Center. Tickets are $60 which includes breakfast during his speaking
engagement from 11am-1pm, and then from 1-5pm there will be a small scale
festival for 400 people, that will feature 10+ breweries with unlimited
samples. Tickets-</span><a href="http://ticketalternative.com/Events/19391.aspx" onmousedown="UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this), "CAQHLPwzwAQGTDUSQ0oBIk7jeBdpaYIlWmUDnKclIg5eHjA", event, bagof({}));" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3b5998; font-family: Calibri;">http://ticketalternative.com/<wbr></wbr>Events/19391.aspx</span></a></span></i></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And one more for the road. He has his paws in <strong>Live on the Green</strong>, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in which <strong>Rhizome Productions</strong> will be organizing the beer
tents. This live music event is every Thursday from September 6 through October
11. The event is free, but sadly the beer is not. As of now, you may see me
managing one of the beer tents. Let’s just hope Matt does not play a cruel joke on
me and put me in a Blue Moon tent. More info on acts and dates can be found at <em><a href="http://www.liveonthegreen.net/">www.<b>liveonthegreen</b>.net/</a></em></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I hear that Murfreesboro-based Mayday is getting closer to the
finish line. You can follow their progress through their blog at </span><a href="http://maydaybrewery.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #3b5998; font-family: Calibri;">http://maydaybrewery.blogspot.com/</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
. They are hoping to have production rolling around Mid-September.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Local homebrew guru <strong>Brandon Jones</strong> continues to get
interviews with rock star brewers via his blog <a href="http://www.embracethefunk.com/">Embrace the Funk</a>. As far as the
local beer blogosphere, he has really stolen my thunder as of late. He has also
stolen my carboys, which were supposed to be filled with a Brett Saison. Still
hoping for their safe return, filled with beer. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>I hope I covered everything. If not, I will amend this blog
entry. Sorry for bad grammar, long hiatus, and pale lager-esque beer journalism.
But at least it’s free! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span>Cheers,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><strong>Smitty<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
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</div>
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-78654759914642561822012-03-26T07:20:00.001-07:002012-03-26T07:20:20.263-07:00Nashville Craft Beer Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbBbhCqEGfA/T3B7FtfBcWI/AAAAAAAAAdE/NxwZtt_XZy0/s1600/NCBW_logo_bg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbBbhCqEGfA/T3B7FtfBcWI/AAAAAAAAAdE/NxwZtt_XZy0/s1600/NCBW_logo_bg.png" /></a></div>
That's right folks, <strong>Nashville Craft Beer Week</strong> starts today. <a href="http://www.nashvillecraftbeerweek.com/">Click here</a> to see a schedule of events and discounts. Kudos to Matt Leff at Rhizome Productions for putting this all together. <br />
<br />
You all have fun at <strong>East Nashville Beer Festival</strong>. Sadly I have to miss this one, as I will be heading down to Florida for some family time, scuba diving, and some beer. I can tell you that there will be some VERY nice suprise offerings. <br />
<br />
Cheers,<br />
<br />
SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-9076113568602425312012-03-10T18:39:00.001-08:002012-03-10T18:56:06.870-08:00Beer Review - Green Flash Rayon Vert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://208.76.82.9/~gre1958/images/x_large/aw8eBUm1986301605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://208.76.82.9/~gre1958/images/x_large/aw8eBUm1986301605.jpg" width="225" yda="true" /></a></div>
Before Green Flash Brewing Company offerings started to hit the shelves, the "better beer guys" over at <strong><a href="http://www.bountybev.com/">Bounty Bev</a></strong> were sampling the goods and gloating. One of them (he goes by <strong>Josh Scutella</strong>) made a crazy claim that the new <strong>Rayon Vert Belgian-Style Pale Ale</strong> was better than <strong>Goose Island Matilda</strong>. That's a pretty bold statement. It got me wondering. If it really was better than <strong>Matilda</strong>, how would it compare the classic <strong>Orval</strong>? I needed to find out for myself and wasted no time picking up four packs of <strong>Double Stout, Hop Head Red, West Coast IPA,</strong> and the beer in question - <strong>Rayon Vert.</strong> I was offered a bottle to review, but I was not about to wait. I love Green Flash and I had not tried this one yet. The suspense was killing me. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: orange;"><strong>Rayon Vert Belgian-Style Pale Ale</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: orange;"><strong>Green Flash Brewing Co. -San Diego, CA</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: orange;"><strong>ABV: 7% </strong></span><br />
<br />
<strong>Smitty's Review:</strong> Sampled at 50 degrees. Pours amber with a one finger retentive ivory head. Aroma of floral hops and lemony esters. Medium bodied with a semi-soft, fine carbonation. Flavor of Belgian pale malts, honey, and perhaps a hint of hibiscus. This is countered by a bold citrusy and grassy bitterness, which to me seems a tad more hop forward than other examples of this style. Dry and lemon grass finish with a hint of lemony funk. I agree with <strong>Brandon Jones</strong> (<a href="http://embracethefunk.com/">Embrace the Funk</a>) and <strong>Michael Semich</strong> (<a href="http://nashvillebeerhunter.com/">Nashville Beer Hunter</a>), the <em>Brettanomyces</em> yeast character is a little young. A little more time in the bottle will dry this out and perhaps add additional depth to this beer. But it's definitely enjoyable now and I high recommend it. It's a repeat buy for me. <br />
<br />
So is it better than <strong>Matilda</strong>? That is a close call. Josh may be on to something. I need revisit <strong>Matilda</strong> (not available in TN) and drink these side by side because it's very close. <strong>Rayon Vert</strong> is definitely the hoppier of the two. Better than <strong>Orval</strong>? Not for me, but <strong>Orval</strong> a classic and tough beer to take down. But as I stated earlier, <strong>Rayon Vert</strong> is young and will evolve in the bottle. Who knows where this beer will go. Since these are sold in 4 packs (THANK YOU), it's easy to set a few back and see how they develop.<br />
<br />
• <strong>Rating*:</strong> 9.5 out of 10<br />
• <strong>Recommended Food Pairing:</strong> Cheese (gouda, feta, gorgonzola, havarti, blue), white pizza, pork chops, rotisserie chicken, white fish, scallops<br />
• <strong>Beer Audience:</strong> Hop heads and Belgian beer enthusiasts<br />
• <strong>Where to buy:</strong> Craft beer specialty stores like Midtown, Frugal MacDoogal, J Barleycorn, Red Dog, Graces Plaza, etc. <br />
• <strong>Other Green Flash beers to try:</strong> Hop Head Red, Double Stout, Le Freak, Barleywine, West Coast IPA<br />
<br />
<em>* rating system based on aroma (1 pt), appearance (1pt), palate (2 pts) flavor (3pts), comparison to other commercial examples of the style (3pts)</em><br />
<br />Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-47141568457197233662012-02-14T08:40:00.001-08:002012-02-14T08:40:53.432-08:00Green Flash Tap Takeover at Flying Saucer Tonight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ej_AAiAhllw/TzqOi3rW_SI/AAAAAAAAAcs/MRYqek-wneo/s1600/green+flash.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ej_AAiAhllw/TzqOi3rW_SI/AAAAAAAAAcs/MRYqek-wneo/s1600/green+flash.bmp" yda="true" /></a></div>
I can not say enough good things about <strong>Green Flash Brewing Co.</strong>. I am beyond excited that <strong>Bounty Bev</strong> brought them to Nashville. If you have never had their beer, get your booty down to <strong>Flying Saucer</strong> at 5pm sharp <u>tonight</u>! Kegs and bottles will be pouring a plenty, including <strong>Imperial IPA, West Coast IPA, Hop Head Red,</strong> and <strong>Rayon Vert</strong>. Look for them in liquor stores later this week. <br />
<br />
Cheers,<br />
<br />
SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-71605608707365321582012-02-08T12:17:00.000-08:002012-02-08T12:18:25.486-08:00New Brewery Alert! Turtle Anarchy Brewing Co.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4iy8sbYQs/TzLYTCGEErI/AAAAAAAAAck/_oeM44RyQ0Y/s1600/tabc_tempbadge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="66" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4iy8sbYQs/TzLYTCGEErI/AAAAAAAAAck/_oeM44RyQ0Y/s320/tabc_tempbadge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Let me tell you right now, middle Tennessee is at start of a brewery growth spurt. Over the next 12-18 months you could see a half dozen new breweries open up (Fat Bottom, Czahns, Mayday, Black Abbey, etc.). <br />
<br />
<strong>Turtle Anarchy Brewing Company</strong> now has space, a brewer, and is installing equipment at their location in Franklin. <strong>Mike Kraft</strong> from <strong>Cool Springs Brewery</strong> will be the head brewer. No word on who will be taking over duties at Cool Springs. I am hearing that we could see beer as earlier as April. If you want to follow their progress, <a href="http://turtleanarchybrewingcompany.blogspot.com/">check out their blog.</a> <br />
<br />
If you have any official information on the other start up breweries, please send me info so I can post. <br />
<br />
Support your local brewery and Cheers!<br />
<br />
SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-66485116142578137282012-02-02T13:43:00.000-08:002012-02-02T15:54:19.279-08:00February - New Brews and Other News<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn9X4-vtcOg/TysDfeHE17I/AAAAAAAAAcc/ra_DAKKrX8o/s1600/NCBW_logo_bg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn9X4-vtcOg/TysDfeHE17I/AAAAAAAAAcc/ra_DAKKrX8o/s200/NCBW_logo_bg.png" width="200" /></a></div>I know I know. Some of this is old news. But for those who don't follow beer forums and social media, you always have me. <br />
<br />
For starters, mark your calendar for February 10 and be in front of your computer at 10 am. Why? The 2nd annual <strong>East Nashville Beer Festival</strong> tickets go on sale. They will, I repeat, WILL sell out. My guess is by the end of the day. <strong>Matt Leff</strong> of <strong>Rhizome Productions</strong> will be organizing this one again, so you know it will be a first rate festival. <a href="http://eastnashvillebeerfest.com/">Click here</a> for ticket info. <br />
<br />
Speaking of Matt Leff, he has organized the first ever <strong>Nashville Craft Beer Week</strong>. It runs March 26-31. Bookmark the <a href="http://www.nashvillecraftbeerweek.com/">web site</a> or join the Facebook group to keep up on the events and news. This guy never sleeps!<br />
<br />
<strong>Yazoo Hop Project 63</strong> has arrived on store shelves. This is one you definitely want to grab before it's gone, especially if you are a hop head. This batch of 2000 cases was brewed with the highly-regarded Australian Galaxy hop. According to the Yazoo blog, "it's got a wonderfully ripe fruity nose, with a long, lingering, and clean bitterness." I have a six and can't wait to try it. Don't forget to check the stamped date on the label to make sure you have the correct version. There is still some 62 floating around. For those that tried the <strong>Yazoo</strong> <strong>Fortuitious </strong>(a soured version of Sue) at <strong>12 South Winter Warmer</strong>, it's supposed to be in bottles soon. No firm date that I know of, but I am told it will be extremely limited and only available in select liquor stores. <br />
<br />
In about two weeks, you should start seeing beers from <strong>Green Flash</strong> on the shelves. This is exciting news folks! This brewery has been on my Nashville wish list for a long time. How good are they? I would put them in the same league as <strong>Bells, Founders, Three Floyds,</strong> etc. Look for <strong>West Coast IPA, Hop Head Red, Double Stout, Palate Wrecker, Le Freak, and Rayon Vert</strong>. I am hearing wonderful things about Rayon Vert, which is a <em>Belgian Pale Ale</em> in the vein of <strong>Orval </strong>and <strong>Goose Island Matilda.</strong> A big shout out to Curt and Josh at <strong>Bounty Bev</strong> for bringing these guys to town. <br />
<br />
On February 16th at 5:30pm, <u>you need</u> to be at <strong>12 South Taproom</strong>. <strong>Brooklyn Brewery</strong> will be tapping kegs of <strong>Brewmaster's Reserve Mary's Maple Porter</strong> (a debut) and <strong>Sorachi Ace</strong>. I almost forgot, and a cask of <strong>Brooklyn Blast</strong>! More info <a href="http://brooklynbrewery.com/blog/event/marys-maple-porter-sorachi-ace-draft-debut-12-south-taproom-nashville/">here </a><br />
<br />
Geez - things just keep getting better for the Nashville craft beer scene! My only complaint is that I can't keep up with everything. <br />
<br />
Cheers, <br />
<br />
SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-52982718416971411452012-01-20T15:45:00.000-08:002012-01-20T15:45:06.814-08:00An Update On Tennessee Senate Bill 2167Great work by <strong>Doug Brumley</strong> over at <strong>The Fledgling Brewer</strong>. Apparantly high gravity beer is not the target. <a href="http://www.fledglingbrewer.com/nashville-beer-scene/finneys-office-addresses-beer-impact-of-senate-bill-2167/">Read more</a>. However, it's still a huge concern the the language was vague enough that it <u>could</u> include craft beer. We still need to contact our legistlators to be sure that they exclude ALL high gravity beer in the final language. And for the record, I am not in favor of the <u>unelected</u> ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Commission) having discrentionary power to make rules in regard to liquor sales in TN. Stay tuned....<br />
<br />
SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-42082596916253117362012-01-20T09:20:00.000-08:002012-01-20T09:20:06.332-08:00Tennessee Legislators Want To Limit Sales of High Gravity BeerFor crying out loud. Just when craft beer is on the up and up, we have boneheaded legislators sneaking in a bill to kill the momementum. That in turn puts brewers and retailers at a disadvantage, and causes money to leave the state. <strong>Craig Mangum</strong>, Nashville Beer Geek's legal consultant (not really, just sounds cool), has analyzed the bill and with an op ed. If you have the time, please contact your legislator and voice your opposition to this bill. I have been told that phone calls have more impact than emails. <a href="http://www.beerlawblog.com/">Read more </a>(it's also reposted below)<br />
<br />
<em><strong><a href="http://www.beerlawblog.com/">From Craig Mangum' Beer Law Blog:</a></strong></em><br />
<br />
<em><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Big Brother wants to tell you how much high gravity beer you can buy and how many you can consume in one sitting. On Wednesday, a bill was introduced that requires the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission to limit the amount of “certain high alcohol content beverages” that a liquor store can sale to a customer in one day. The bill would also require the ABC to limit the amount of “certain high alcohol content beverages” that can be sold to a bar patron in a single day. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The bill as proposed is bad policy for too many reasons to list. Some of the highlights:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">I.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>The bill requires the ABC to set the limits. No discretion.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-align: justify;">The bill is straightforward in one regard; Tennessee ABC must pass rules and regulations restricting the sales of high alcohol content beverages. No discretion.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">II.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>The Bill passes the buck to the ABC to set the limit on how many high-alc beverages can be sold. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">If limited discretion to pass rules restricting the sale of high-alc beverages was bad, giving unlimited discretion on what limits can be set is worse. Is one high-grav beverage per sitting enough? What about a limit of one six pack per customer? The ABC has huge discretion in this area. Proponents of the bill will likely argue that the ABC will promote reasonable restrictions. Maybe it will (Though I would argue that any restriction is unreasonable). However, is this the type of discretion that should be given to non-elected officials? Moreover, the ABC could easily change its rules year to year and wouldn’t need legislative approval to do so. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">III.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>The bill only targets high-alc beer, not wine or spirits.</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Bill requires “certain high alcohol content beverages” be (further) regulated but does not define what constitutes a “certain high alcohol content beverage”. What high alcohol beverages are to be targeted? It is clear from the <a href="http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/billinfo/BillSummaryArchive.aspx?BillNumber=SB2167&ga=107" target="_blank"><span style="color: #bba021;">synopsis </span></a>of the bill and the language used that the intent of the bill’s sponsors is solely to regulate high-alc beer. The only type of “high content alcohol” mentioned in the synopsis of the bill is beer. Moreover, within the current Tennessee statutes only the definition of beer with more than 5% abw is labeled “high alcohol.” Wine is simply defined as fermented grape juice (not to exceed 21% abv). </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">While sales of wine and whiskey could certainly be restricted by the language of the bill (if beer above 5% abw is high alcohol, so is wine and spirits); the bill does not require that all “high alcohol content beverages” be regulated in this manner. Will the commission limit the amount of wine or whiskey that can be sold to a single customer in a single day? Don’t bet on it. This bill was clearly targeted at high alcohol beer.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">IV.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Bad for business.</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Tennessee certainly does not have the worst beer laws; that distinction belongs to Mississippi. However, it’s still not a stretch to state that Tennessee is not the most beer-friendly state. For Sierra Nevada to even consider Tennessee as a destination for its new brewery project, Tennessee’s laws had to change. This bill is a step backward. Even if the ABC sets “reasonable” restrictions, this bill does not promote a friendly climate for breweries, distributors or restaurants/bars. It is simply bad for business.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There are numerous other problems with the bill, such as how it will be enforced (will ABC require liquor stores create a daily list of people who buy high-alc beer and the quantity purchased?). At the end of the day, the State should not tell its citizens how many Dale’s Pale Ales (6.5% abv) they can have, especially when there is no limit on the amount of Sierra Nevada Pale Ales (5.6% abv) one can purchase. This is government paternalism at its worst. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Currently, the bill has been sent to the Senate <a href="http://www.capitol.tn.gov/senate/committees/government.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #bba021;">State & Local Government</span></a> committee and has yet to reach committee in the house. There is still time to contact your legislators and the committee members to stop this bill from passing. </div></em>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-31960015105006341522012-01-13T19:24:00.000-08:002012-01-13T20:02:32.883-08:00Beer Review - Sierra Nevada Ruthless Rye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qa870ULVBoo/TxD1pmpPDFI/AAAAAAAAAcI/ZEyOpnk3YlA/s1600/IMG_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qa870ULVBoo/TxD1pmpPDFI/AAAAAAAAAcI/ZEyOpnk3YlA/s320/IMG_0048.JPG" width="289" /></a></div><br />
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Do you like <strong>Sierra Nevada</strong>? Do you like hoppy rye beers? If so, you are in luck because <strong>Sierra Nevada Ruthless Rye</strong> hit Nashville shelves yesterday. It's a new beer in their portfolio that will be replacing <strong>Glissade</strong> as an early winter seasonal. Enough bs...let's pop the cap on this. <br />
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<strong>Sierra Nevada Ruthless Rye</strong><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. -Chico, CA</span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: #783f04;">ABV:</b><span style="color: #783f04;"> 6.6% </span></span><br />
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<b>Smitty's Review: </b>Sampled at 50 degrees. Pours medium orange amber with an ivory head that dissipates to a 1/8" retentive ring, sparce lacing. Medium bodied with average carbonation. Aroma of floral hops and sweet fruity ale esters, which has a house character that I recognize instantly. The malt profile is quite nice - in which the rye blends nicely with the toasty and caramelly notes. The bitterness is spicy and assertive, with almost a mild pepper-like quality to it. As far as attentuation, this definitely leans to the drier side. Long hoppy and dry finish, with a hint of orange and tea coming in as well. As it warms, I sense a small amount of alcohol. <br />
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This is an excellent beer and worthy of a repeat buy. I think <strong>Sierra Nevada</strong> has a winner, and I am not going to miss Glissade one bit. I love the label as well. But for those that do not like, or have a low tolerance for hops, you may want to pass on this one. <br />
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<b>• Rating*:</b> 9 out of 10<br />
<b>• Recommended Food Pairing:</b> Cured meats, soft buttery cheeses, pork loin, rotisserie chicken<br />
<b>• Value:</b> Moderate at $9.99 per six pack<br />
<b>• Beer Audience: </b>Hop heads<br />
<b>• Where to buy:</b> Craft beer specialty stores like Midtown, Frugal MacDoogal, J Barleycorn, Red Dog, Graces Plaza, etc. <br />
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<span style="font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">* rating system based on aroma (1 pt), appearance (1pt), palate (2 pts) flavor (3pts), comparison to other commercial examples of the style (3pts)</span></span>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-20619009612703107072011-12-08T07:01:00.000-08:002011-12-08T07:58:08.340-08:00Smitty's Tips for 12 South Winter Warmer<strong>I am excited, how about you guys? I know most of you have attended beer festivals and know the routine. But just in case there is anyone somewhat new to a high alcohol beer festival, I thought I would share some pointers. Please don't take this as me acting like some know-it-all. I am just trying to be helpful so that everyone has a blast. Cool?</strong><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rUr0HaPTOJo/TuDQOgP-oKI/AAAAAAAAAbc/3_vOLZxIIEA/s1600/passed+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" mda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rUr0HaPTOJo/TuDQOgP-oKI/AAAAAAAAAbc/3_vOLZxIIEA/s1600/passed+out.jpg" /></a>1. Unlike the summer beer festivals, these beers will be 40-50% higher in alcohol. So do the math. Twelve 2 ounce pours over 1 hour will be 24 ounces, which is about the size of a bomber. If you go at that pace for 4-5 hours drinking 9-11% beers, you are likely to get pretty messed up. Trust me on this - these beers sneak up on you FAST. There are over 100 beers, so you are unlikely to try them all. Just pace yourself and keep track of how much you are drinking. I have seen seasoned beer festival goers drink too much too fast. Let's just say - they did not remember much. I don't know about you all, but I want to remember the great beers I try. As they say, "It's a marathon, not a sprint." </div>2. Drink lots and lots of water. I drink water in between every beer. It keeps you hydrated in addition to slowing down your drinking pace. Sure it will be more trips to the porta john, but you'll thank me in the morning. <br />
3. Do not start the festival on an empty stomach. There will be great food vendors there as well, so refuel with more food midway through the festival. <br />
4. Beers will run out during the festival, so I suggest you hit the ones you really want to try first. I like to map my top 15 or 20 before hand. <br />
5. If there are people behind you in a serving line, be polite and step aside once you get your pour. Try not to congregate or chat at the serving table. It's an etiquette thing....<br />
6. Make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab home. .08 is the legal limit in TN and it does not take much to reach it, especially at a high gravity beer festival. A DUI will go on your permanent record and will cost you $3-$5000 and 48 hours jail time. It also jeopardizes the safety of others on the road. Don't risk it. That ends the PSA. <br />
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See you there!<br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-60898146002504573912011-12-05T06:21:00.000-08:002011-12-05T12:51:09.711-08:00December - New Brews and Other News<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vr95ZOKJkVA/TtzS15x8O0I/AAAAAAAAAbU/-mt0p7rBKu4/s1600/green+flash.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vr95ZOKJkVA/TtzS15x8O0I/AAAAAAAAAbU/-mt0p7rBKu4/s1600/green+flash.bmp" /></a></div>Seasons Greetings craft addicts. Lots to report this month. First, <strong>12 South Winter Warmer</strong> is this weekend. Unfortunately if you don't have a ticket, it's sold out. There will be over 100 beers to sample, many of which are special release, rare, or out of market beers. I will running around helping out organizer <strong>Matt Leff</strong> and other volunteers. Come up and say hi!<br />
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I am really excited about the announcement that <strong>Green Flash Brewing Co</strong>. is coming to TN. Hopheads rejoice! The west coast goodness will be arriving in January. Their Belgian stuff ain't bad either! Expect an appearance at <strong>12 South Winter Warmer</strong>. Read more below:<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Just wanted to let you Middle-TN folks know that we (BountyBev) will be releasing Green Flash to the Middle TN market in January of 2012! The initial launch will be with Hop Head Red, West Coast IPA, Le Freak and their new brett, belgian pale-Rayon Vert! It looks like Q1 of 2012 is gonna be a doozie! </span></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em></div><em></em><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cheers, </span></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Joshua Scutella </span></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Director & Better Beer Guy </span></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">BountyBev </span></em></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Have any of you tried beers from <strong>Calfkiller</strong>? If not, the <strong>Calfkiller Beer Dinner</strong> is a good opportunity not only to try the beers, but to meet the brewmasters as well. It will be held at the <strong>Flying Saucer</strong> on December 19th at 6pm. Read more below:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Calfkiller is a spectacular brewery that has become incredibly popular in the Nashville area,” said Brandi Allen, general manager of Flying Saucer. “The Sergio brothers are doing some amazing things at their brewery, and they have been great about showcasing some really fun elements in their beers. We know our guests are going to love whatever surprises they have in store for us!”</span></em></div><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Admission is $25 for U.F.O. members and $30 for non-members. The event is sure to reach capacity, so customers are urged to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased at Flying Saucer or by calling 615-259-3039.</span></em> <br />
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The <strong>Belcourt Theatre</strong> will be showing the documentary <strong>Beer Wars</strong> on December 15th. Doors open at 6:30pm and admission includes two free pints of Yazoo and a Q&A discussion panel afterwards. <a href="http://www.belcourt.org/events?id=77909">Click here</a> for pricing and ticket information. Sorry that I won't be there, but I have a brewery in Muster, IN to visit. Wink!<br />
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Midtown Wine and Spirits reports that they have received <strong>Lakefront IPA, Lakefront Holiday Ale, Ommegang Adoration, New Belgium Prickly Passion Saison,</strong> and <strong>Schlafly Christmas Ale</strong>. No word on my perennial favorite <strong>Sierra Nevada Celebration</strong>. <br />
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See ya at the Warmer! <br />
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Smitty<br />
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</div><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-82533404950337647932011-11-11T13:01:00.000-08:002011-11-11T13:01:27.602-08:00Beer Review- Stone Vertical Epic 11-11-11<h3 class="post-title entry-title"><a href="http://nashvillebeergeek.blogspot.com/2011/03/beer-review-lucky-bucket-ipa.html"></a> </h3><div class="post-header"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gt-QDdhJU2s/TW3BIVYbfdI/AAAAAAAAAW8/qEgtKaktwZc/s1600/lucky.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OuDJzMzWcvg/Tr2MwmH71aI/AAAAAAAAAbE/4941x27RSCU/s1600/vertical-epic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OuDJzMzWcvg/Tr2MwmH71aI/AAAAAAAAAbE/4941x27RSCU/s200/vertical-epic.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Happy Veterans Day everyone. Special thanks go out to all who have served our great country. I raise a glass to you all. Now on to the beer....<br />
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Far starters, I like <b>Stone Brewing Co</b>. They brew good beers and have great branding and marketing in the arena of craft beer. Plus they have one of the most impressive headquarters I have ever seen in my beer travels. If you are ever near Escondido, CA, I highly recommend you check out <b>Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens</b>. Since it's November 11, 2011, I figured that the new <b>Vertical Epic 11-11-11</b> would be the perfect beer to review.<br />
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<div style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Stone Vertical Epic 11-11-11<br />
</b></span></div><div style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stone Brewing Co. -Escondido, CA<br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: #783f04;">ABV:</b><span style="color: #783f04;"> 9.4% </span></span><br />
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<b>Smitty's Review: </b>Sampled at 50 degrees. Pours copper amber with a dissipating beige head. The aroma was nice, which smelled like cinnamon red hot candy and banana-esque esters. Medium bodied with average carbonation. The Belgian malt backbone is toasty with a hint of chocolate, but cinnamon and Anaheim chiles really take center stage here. They blend really well and do not overpower with spice or heat. Yeasty and warming finish, but perhaps too heavy on Belgian phenols that come across as medicinal and musty. While this beer is complex, I don't find the ingredients to be harmonious. I am probably going to be in the minority here, but this beer is sort of a letdown. It's more odd than it is enjoyable. I still think that any adventurous craft beer drinker should give this a try. It's only going to be around this one time, and they are flying off the shelves pretty fast to collectors. Feel free to comment on your impressions.<br />
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<b>• Rating*:</b> 6.75 out of 10<br />
<b>• Recommended Food Pairing:</b> This would ruin a meal for me, perhaps some mild white cheeses. <br />
<b>• Value:</b> Moderate at $8.49 per bomber<br />
<b>• Beer Audience: </b>Adventurous craft beer drinkers<br />
<b>• Where to buy:</b> Craft beer specialty stores like Midtown, Frugal MacDoogal, J Barleycorn, Red Dog, Graces Plaza, etc. <br />
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<span style="font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">* rating system based on aroma (1 pt), appearance (1pt), palate (2 pts) flavor (3pts), comparison to other commercial examples of the style (3pts)</span></span>Smittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194407212968177131.post-62427133992454140162011-11-04T07:27:00.000-07:002011-11-04T07:31:43.729-07:00New Brews & Other News - November<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmEIvqIgi_8/TrP1_ow_xjI/AAAAAAAAAa8/lCu90VRe6rE/s1600/yazoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmEIvqIgi_8/TrP1_ow_xjI/AAAAAAAAAa8/lCu90VRe6rE/s1600/yazoo.jpg" /></a></div>First the bad news. If you have not heard, <strong>Sierra Nevada Brewing Co</strong>. eliminated Tennessee off their short list. <strong>Doug Brumley</strong> over at <a href="http://www.fledglingbrewer.com/">Fledgling Brewer</a> broke the news. I have no hard feelings toward Sierra Nevada. Business decisions are not always easy to make among finalists. They have not released any explanations or listed factors that led to the elimination. Hopefully this will be a lesson to lawmakers that antiquated beer laws need to be changed because they are hindering economic growth. Speaking of Sierra Nevada, <strong>Celebration</strong> should be hitting the shelves any day now - how ironic.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: orange;">On the high gravity side:</span></strong> Abita has released <strong>25th Anniversary Vanilla Doubledog</strong>. It's basically an imperial version of Turb Dog with vanilla. I think I may need to try this one. <strong>Sweewater's</strong> winter spiced beer <strong>Festive Ale</strong> is also on the shelves, and very tasty. I know that this is a little late, but there may be a few bottles from the <strong>Samuel Adams Small Batch Series</strong> releases floating around. Look for <strong>Vixen Choclolate Chili Bock, Tasman Red IPA, Griffin's Bow Oaked Blonde Barleywine</strong>, and <strong>Third Voyage Double IPA. </strong><br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><strong>On the low gravity side:</strong> <span style="color: black;">Look for <strong>Yazoo Fall Lager</strong> anywhere Yazoo is sold. If you like a lager with an extra hop kick, you want to check this out.</span> <span style="color: black;">I also spotted <strong>Hop Project 60</strong> on the shelves.</span></span><br />
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<strong>The Music City Brewers Brewoff</strong> is this weekend. It is being held at the Mariott in Goodletsville. For more information, visit the website <a href="http://www.musiccitybrewers.com/brewoff.php">here.</a> <br />
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<strong>12 South Winter Warmer</strong> sold out in about 3 hours! Sadly, there are people scalping these tickets on Craiglist. I know that it's the norm for sold out events, but selling tickets for a CHARITY EVENT to line your own pockets is not cool. <strong>Matt Leff</strong> from <strong>Rhizome Productions</strong> really knows how to put a beer festival together. He is bringing in lots of special and limited release kegs, including an offering from Jackie O's (Athens, Ohio). Christmas will be coming early for the beer geeks and tickers.<br />
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For those of you attending, be sure you have a designated driver or take a cab home. Many of the beers will have a higher alcohol content and <u>will</u> impair your ability to legally drive, in addition to threatening the safety of others on the road. A DUI in TN is very costly and will be on your record for life. Be responsible. End of public service announcement. <br />
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That's it for now. I will try and find a beer to review in the next week or so. <br />
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Cheers <br />
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SmittySmittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13338526744402345565noreply@blogger.com1