United States Beer Reviews
Although beer existed in the United States from its birth (and before), it wasn’t until Prohibition that the state of beer in America was truly united. Today, the United States is arguably the world’s most important beer market, where brewers enjoy the most freedom to practice and advance their craft. The market is a true melting pot of brewing styles and traditions, and the beer community is as vibrant as it is diverse. While things really got started during and as a result of the Prohibition Era (1919-1933), fermented drinks pre-date the country’s founding in 1776. Hailed as a land of opportunity, huge macrobrewing enterprises like AB InBev and MillerCoors co-exist alongside a growing number of small craft beer companies. A country built by immigrants, America has heavy European brewing influences. The number of influential breweries are too great to number, and the list continues to evolve as independent brewers push innovation in the craft and give the world more and more interesting lagers and ales to explore.
Trader Joe’s Vienna Style Lager
Color is a clear burnt orange, copper with a 1 finger head that dissipates quickly and leaves a slight film. Smells like a mix of malt and faint, floral hops- but the malt dominates. The taste consists of a sweet fruitiness right off the bat but the sweetness quickly...
Surly Abrasive Ale
Michael: Cold calling is a necessary evil. I’ve been doing it for a few months, now, and despite a bit of a tenure, was shocked off the phone today. I won’t bore you with the details, but needless to say a pint of something by Surly, specifically their Abrasive Ale,...
Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Coffee Stout
If you have not read our review of Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout by John and Michael (The Stout Boys) I would suggest doing so before you embark on this entry. I say this because the beers are identical as far as the malts, hops, IBUs, ABV of 13%, and color go....
Ellicottville Pale Ale
I have learned to be cautious about my expectations when opening a bottle of beer from a “Beer-of-the-Month-Club” selection. So when I popped the EBC Pale Ale I was delighted. Ellicottville is located in southwestern New York state. It has been called the...