Sunday, March 7, 2010

Smokin' Hops

If you like smoky beers, Brewdog's Paradox is one for you. This is a beer that tastes like it has spent all night at a cigar and whiskey bar. And if you like hops, Bell's Hopslam is a winner. But if you like to smoke your hops, well, put those two together.

Initially, just like the Paradox solo, the blend greets you at the door with clouds of cigar smoke and a whiff of Scotch. But then the hops kicks in and the smoke turns into a more floral, sweeter aroma, as the smoke and the hops mingle. Maybe like someone lit a big joint in a cigar bar?

Complicated flavors in this feisty blend. And you do have to like to smoke.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

High Five

Friday was good - Sam's Quick Shop got this year's batch of Bell's Hopslam. After I enjoyed most of a sixpack this weekend, I looked at my beer fridge and got a notion of popping open a can of TenFidy from Oscar Blues AND a Hopslam. I knew I was taking a bit of a chance here, because these are two really intense, almost explosive beers. I considered wearing safety goggles. But then I just did it.

Wooowee!

High Five!

Big, malty SOB stoutness greets you at the door and then a hint of honey takes your hat and >>WHAM<< the hops delivers a whoppin' kick in the ass. Keep the change!