William Clark

Purple Haze, from Abita Brewing Company is a Raspberry Wheat Beer that classify’s as a fruit beer. I enjoyed it by itself at the end of the evening and it was amazing. I wasn’t sure as to what to expect from a fruit beer because it was the first of its kind for me. The most important thing for me that it wasn’t overpowering with raspberries, but just a subtle hint at the finish. I believe the greatest time to enjoy this beer is after dinner with dessert or as dessert. It definitely would go great with cheesecake or something chocolatey.

I would recommend this beer to everyone wanting to try fruit beer. Its a great tasting American Wheat beer with a twist from the raspberry puree they added after filtration. So sit back and relax. A six pack of Purple Haze and a couple of friends would be a wonderful way to spend an evening.

Typically I prefer darker more bitter beer and if anything I like citrus. I was rather impressed by this beer though, and for my first experience I am sure that the next ones I try will definitely get better. The whole process of these tastings is extremely casual right now. Although I am sure that as I get further into my reviews I will start to refine my purchases to grab a true assortment of beer.

The Bitch Creek ESB by Grand Teton Brewing Co was a part of the 6 pack that I bought for the weekend. After Opening it last night, I realized that it was something that I have already had somewhere before on tap so I knew that I wasn’t going to be disappointed. My tasting notes follow the image below. Be sure to check out the review of the other beers that I’ve tasted that will come here soon.

I poured Bitch Creek into a pint glass and my first immediate reaction was to the darkness of the beer. It was slightly darker than a Newcastle ‘The One and Only’ and had a decent cream colored head that dissipated rather quickly. After the first taste I was surprised to not have much hints of caramel that I assumed I’d taste from the color of the beer. Instead of a sweet caramel taste it had good punch of bitterness, ending in a smooth well balanced finish. The taste of the beer is a little different from the smell and the look of it over all.

This was definitely a great beer and I would buy a 6 pack by its self for me and a Friend, or the next time I see it at a restaurant on tap. I also drank this beer with an amazing meal prepared by Jeff Clark which consisted of Grass fed Steak, mashed potatoes, home grown green beans with home made bacon bits and small yellow tomatoes. It paired very well with this meal, and would go great with any beef.

So for today, and the 4th of July Weekend as well I decided to go to Total Wine to pick up a mix and Match six pack of different craft brews from Around the US. Below is a photo of the six beers that I chose as well as a synopsis from the brewers themselves. My comments will be added later after I’ve tasted them.

Midas Touch – Dogfish Head Brewery

This recipe is the actual oldest-known fermented beverage in the world! It is an ancient Turkish recipe using the original ingredients from the 2700 year old drinking vessels discovered in the tomb of King Midas. Somewhere between wine & mead; this smooth, sweet, yet dry ale will please the Chardonnay of beer drinker alike.

Union Jack IPA – Firestone Walker

The newest member of the Firestone family, Union Jack is the aggressive IPA that you’ve been searching for. Citrus, pineapple, and a full chewy malt profile finish clean on your palate. Over 70 IBUs and 7.5% alcohol by volume, Union Jack won’t have any problem competing with the big India Pale Ales. A beer true to its origins; deeply hopped and bolstered for a long voyage.

Saison du Buff – Dogfish Head, Victory, and Stone

This beer is collaboration between Dogfish Head, Stone Brewing Co. (Escondido, CA), and Victory Brewing Company (Downington, PA).

The idea for this beer germinated way back in 2003 when the three guys (Sam from Dogfish, Greg from Stone and Bill from Victory) formed the BUFF alliance (Brewers United for Freedom of Flavor) – a noble endeavor with the goal to highlight the passion and camaraderie of the American craft brew movement.

So, BUFF didn’t really do anything (beyond talk a lot of talk) until 2010 when the three brewers finally got together to jointly brew at beer at the Stone Brewery. Saison du BUFF will first be brewed at Stone and then replicated at each of the other two breweries – same recipe, same ingredients, three different breweries throughout 2010.

Plans call for Saison du BUFF to be a 6% alc/vol Saison brewed with parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. This beer will be brewed three times, once at each brewery using the same recipe.

Solace – Firestone Walker

Firestone Walker presents Solace, an ode to warmer weather in the northern hemisphere. A hint of citrus fruit and clove aroma are followed by tangy dry malt flavor and a silky finish making it an approachable and refreshing session beer. We bring you this beer unfettered, a craftily unfiltered ale full of flavor and perfectly constructed to compliment those lazy warm days ahead. Ideal for washing down fish tacos or other south o’ the border-inspired dishes.

Bitch Creek ESB – Grand Teton Brewing Co.

Bitch Creek perfectly balances big malt sweetness and robust hop flavor for a full bodied, satisfying mahogany ale. Like the stream for which it is named, our Bitch Creek ESB is full of character… not for the timid.

Purple Haze – Abita

Purple Haze is a crisp, American style wheat beer with raspberry puree added after filtration. Therefore, you may see raspberry pulp in the beer. The raspberries provide the lager with a subtle purple coloration and haze, a fruity aroma, and a tartly sweet taste.

This beer is best served with salads or light fruit desserts, such as soufflés or chiffon cakes. Many people enjoy it with chocolate desserts. Purple Haze pairs well with certain cheeses, such as ripened Brie or any dessert made with Mascarpone. It’s also great paired with entrees prepared with fruit, especially citrus. Consider enjoying Purple Haze alone at the end of your meal as dessert