Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Mustaches for Ulcers







OK, I'm going to get serious for just a moment. A fellow beer geek I met through my work with the Southern Beer Society is sick. OK he may not have testicular cancer or prostate cancer but he is still sick. He has ulcers...in his stomach. His name is Jonathan and he is one of the trio that makes up Monday Night Brewery. You may not have heard of them unless you're in the Atlanta area because they aren't like an established brewery yet, more like an indie brewery. Anyways, what can I do to help, you ask? You can do something. Grow a mustache. Mustaches are awesome. I'm pretty sure they are the in thing right now, especially in Hollywood and well, if Hollywood does it we should, right? Lots of cool people have mustaches: Wilford Brimley, Geraldo Rivera, Jason Giambi, Wade Boggs, the biker from the Village People, Lemmy from Motorhead, Hulk Hogan, Ron Jeremy, Tom Selleck, Frank Zappa and of course, Burt Reynolds. So make sure you do your part. Grow your mustache and head on over to http://www.mondaynightbrewery.com/ and post your pic!! If you are folically challenged or perhaps a woman, just put on a fake one, take your pic and get over there to support the cause!!
Stay Buddhalicious!!
The Beerbuddha










Beer Review: The Original Cave Creek Chili Beer


Leave it to me to actually buy what many consider to be the worst beer in the world. Come on folks, I had to try this beer, wouldn't you if you have the chance? This beer, brewed by The Chili Beer Company out of Cave Creek, Arizona, is "hand made in the small town of Tecate, Mexico" and "each chili pepper is lovingly dropped, by hand, in every bottle then the bottle is filled with a fine Mexican lager beer." Hmmm. The word "fine" and "Mexican lager" should never go in the same sentence together. That's an oxymoron if I've ever heard one. They also claim that this beer is "the most unusual beer in the world". That, I cannot argue with. So, with my trusty glass of milk, a trick I learned after eating a habanero pepper as a joke, I go to try The Original Cave Creek Chili Beer. Wish me luck!
Brewery: Chili Beer Company
Beer: The Original Cave Creek Chili Beer
Style: Chili Beer
ABV: 4.20%
Recommended Glassware: Pint glass
Food Pairings: Cuisine: BBQ, Latin Cheese: Monterey, Pepper Jack Meat: Fish, Smoked Meat
Serving Type: I used my Sam Adams glass
Appearance- The beer pours a clear straw color the head is there one second and gone the next. it disappeared quickly!! I poured the jalapeno from the bottle into the glass. Not sure if that is "recommended" or not.
Smell- The smell of jalapenos dominates. Not in a bad way. Kind of like jalapenos on a pizza or nachos.
Taste- It's not horrible. I expected a lot worse based on other reviews but it's not that bad. It's also not that spicy. Then again I do live in New Orleans. The spiciness hits me in the back of my throat but nothing bad. The beer part of this brew is Corona-esque.
Mouthfeel- Thin and watery with little to no carbonation.
Overall- Ok so not a horrible beer but not a great beer either. Taste like a Corona with a jalapeno in it. Not something I'd buy again unless I was buying it for novelty purposes. Do you dare me to eat the jalapeno? And no, I won't be finishing this beer. It ain't that good.


Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Beer Review: The Brothers Bernardus



On my recent trip to Orlando with the wife and daughter, to visit my family and the House of Mouse, I was fortunate enough to stop at a Total Wine. This place is pretty incredible as far as liquor stores go. The claim to have "8000 wines, 2000 spirits and 1000 beers in every store" and man were they right. The place was a Sam's Club of alcohol with huge bulk shelves stocked full of booze. I, of course, didn't care about anything but the beer section and what a wonderful section it was. Compared to our selection in Louisiana this was beer heaven. One of the many items I saw on the shelf was a St. Bernardus gift pack that came with 4 beers(Abt 12, Prior 8, Pater 6 and Tripel) and a glass! All for only $13.99! Damn great price in my opinion. I know, I know, ya'll are saying "Who gives a shit, I can get these beers anywhere", but unlike you lucky bastards that live in other states I can't get St. Bernardus in Louisiana(which should be changing in the next couple weeks I am told) so for me it was a big deal. Well anyway, I just recently finished up the last of that 4 pack and I thought it would be cool to review all 4 beers on the blog together. So without further ado here are my reviews.

Brewery: Brouwerij St. Bernardus NV

Beer: Abt 12

Style: Quadrupel

ABV: 10.50%

Recommended Glassware: Snifter, Tulip or Chalice

Food Pairings: Cheese: Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Swiss, Blue, Cheddar General: Digestive Meat: Game, Smoked, Beef

Serving Type: My St. Bernardus chalice of course.

Appearance- Poured a nice dark brown color with a thick tan head.

Smell- Great smells such as clove, banana, caramel and some mustiness which I find very nice.

Taste- Wonderful fruity taste to it. Nice hints of citrus and yeastiness. Alcohol wasn't overpowering. The malty sweetness is very nice.Mouthfeel- Medium body with medium carbonation.

Overall- What can I say other than this beer is incredible. I wish this one was available in New Orleans.

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Beer: Tripel

Style: Tripel

ABV: 8.00%

Recommended Glassware: Snifter or Chalice

Food Pairings: Cuisine: Mediterranean Cheese: Blue, Cheddar, Gorgonzola, Limburger Meat: Pork, Poultry

Serving Type: St. Bernardus chalice

Appearance- This one poured a nice amber color with a nice, big off-white head. Lacing was incredible.

Smell- Interestingly complex with hints of spice, yeast, bread and fruits.

Taste- A nice sweetness with hints of honey, banana, cloves and other spices I can't name. Has a nice dry finish. The alcohol is present.

Mouthfeel- Has a medium, smooth body with a lot carbonation.

Overall- A great triple but not my favorite of the bunch.

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Beer: Prior 8

Style: Dubbel

ABV: 8.00%

Recommended Glassware: Chalice

Food Pairings: Cheese: Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Swiss, Gorgonzola, Limburger General: Chocolate Meat: Beef

Serving Type: St. Bernardus chalice

Appearance- Poured a nice murky brown color with a nice huge off white head. Beautiful lacing.

Smell- Cloves, spices, figs and a nice malty breadiness as well.

Taste- Wonderful balance of hops and malts. Hints of caramel and also cloves and other spices. Yeastiness present.

Mouthfeel- Medium body with medium carbonation.

Overall- Great beer. Not as good as the Abt 12 but still a solid brew.

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Beer: Pater 6

Style: Dubbel

ABV: 8.00%

Recommended Glassware: Chalice

Food Pairings: Cheese: Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Swiss, Gorgonzola, Limburger General: Chocolate Meat: Beef

Appearance- This beer poured a nice dark brown with huge frothy tan head. Lacing was present throughout the life of the beer.

Smell- Huge fruit smells such as apples, citrus and dark fruits. A nice sweet biscuity smell with a slight hint of alcohol.

Taste- The wonderful fruit tastes really come through here. Mostly dark fruits but as in the smell I got apples and citrus also. There is an interesting brown sugar taste which is present as well.

Mouthfeel- This beer has a nice medium body with medium carbonation. It's an easy drinking beer.

Overall- Fantastic. Surprisingly my second favorite behind the Abt 12. I really enjoyed this beer a lot.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Beer Review: Terrapin Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout





OK, so normally I wouldn't drink an Imperial Stout during the middle of summer. To me stouts just aren't great beers to drink during the oppressive heat of an infamous New Orleans summer. Lagers, Pilsners, Wheats, Weizens or Wits. Those, to me, are good beers to drink while sweating your balls off.

So last night I'm making dinner for my wife and open my beer fridge to grab a nice tasty brew to pass the time and there staring back at me is this Terrapin Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout. It's been sitting in my fridge for months just waiting for me to consume it. In fact, if you look at my list of current beers in my fridge you'll see a bunch of stouts waiting their turn. I just can't bring myself to do it. But last night guys, I did it. I broke the unwritten rule of drinking a beer in its off-season and....I loved it! So let me stop rambling and get to the review!


Brewery: Terrapin Beer Company
http://www.terrapinbeer.com/

Beer: Terrapin Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout

Style: Imperial Stout

ABV: 8.10%

Recommended Glassware: Pint Glass, Snifter or Oversized Wine Glass

Food Pairings: Cheese: Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Swiss General: Chocolate, Digestive Meat: Beef, Smoked Meat, Grilled Meat, Game

Serving Type: I poured this beer into a nonic pint glass.

Appearance - Man this beer poured a oily black with a huge milk chocolate colored head!

Smell - The coffee aroma is SO overpowering but in a good way. Hence the name Coffee Oatmeal Stout.

Taste- Huge roasted coffee flavors dominate but also some hints of chocolate cocoa and some interesting spice I couldn't quite make out.

Mouthfeel - Extremely thick and and heavy. The carbonation was medium.

Overall - Incredible beer! Very tasty and would be a nice replacement for coffee in the morning or perhaps a beer for dessert. Nicely complex with a nice mix of flavors.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Bruisin Ales Is Shipping Beer!



Bruisin' Ales, one of the premier beer stores in the entire South, is shipping beer. That's right, shipping beer!! If you are going to order beers please make sure you do it from these folks. Julie and Jason Atallah have worked really hard in creating one of the best beer stores in the South. They bring in great quality beers and work really hard to bring better beer to the South. They can get some great North Carolina brews from breweries such as Duck-Rabbit, Highland and Green Man Ales. Visit their website at http://www.bruisin-ales.com/. Here is an intro from their website describing their store:



Bruisin' Ales, Asheville's renowned beer-only store, boasts nearly 700 brews from around the world (and around the corner). The small, colorful boutique shop in the heart of downtown is a treasure trove for beer lovers—specializing in Belgians, Belgian-style, American craft brews, and the very best from around the world. The unique bottle shop set-up allow customers to "Mix-a-Six."
Choose from the shelves or two coolers chocked full with a constantly rotating stock. A large selection of glassware, books, t-shirts, hats and other breweriana await. Visit the website for an up-to-date listing of available selections, as well as a beer blog and event calendar. Join the mailing list and get the early scoop of Bruisin' events.
Owned and operated by Jason and Julie Atallah since 2006, Bruisin' Ales has quickly become known in the beer world and was recently rated the #2 Best Beer Retailer Worldwide by
RateBeer Best 2008. The store has been featured in All About Beer, BeerAdvocate magazine, Ale Street News, and Southern Brew News.
Awesome!! So check these guys out today and place your order!! I know I will!
Stay Buddhalicious!!
The Beerbuddha

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Beer Etiquette from Merchant Du Vin


Here is a great email from Merchant Du Vin explaining "proper" beer etiquette. A great little read and some good rules to live by!

We’ve spoken at times about how when you are out to get a beer “on-premise” it’s almost always appropriate to tip well - servers are working evenings & weekends, and cleaning up your dirty glasses, so you can have a nice time. It’s always nice to say thanks to your server, to be a good customer.But what about guidelines regarding grabbing a beer with friends or co-workers? Here’s a few suggestions that may make your next beer with friends even more enjoyable—if you have suggestions of your own, feel free to reply and we may discuss them in a future e-news.

1. People are entitled to their own opinions about beer. Even if the beer reviews call it a “five-star A-plus,” even if it’s the first choice of five out of the six in the party … someone may just not care for it. For balanced enjoyment, don’t let the homebrewing, advanced-beer-hobbyist, double IPA fan order a huge, strong beer for someone who wants a soft, light cream ale or sweet dark lager.

2. If your group is buying rounds, don’t feel locked in by the second or third round. People drink at different paces. It’s OK to order a beer on your own if other folks aren’t ready; it’s certainly more polite than sitting with an empty glass or forcing someone else to hurry up and finish their beer faster than they want to.

3. Use a coaster. If your bartender or server doesn’t give you one, ask. A beer glass sitting directly on the bar or table sets some people’s teeth on edge—maybe someone in your party.

4. Be careful of beer vs. wine vs. cocktail comparisons. They are different. They all range in flavors. People are entitled to choices, but saying “I like wine better than beer,” can be upsetting to a beer lover. Try this: “I’m still searching for a beer I really like.”

5. Remember: your wine by the glass may be oxidized, and your cocktail may be expensive or slow to prepare on busy nights . . . your beer will likely be perfect, and delivered quickly.

6. Ask your server succinct questions about a beer you haven’t had. If he or she doesn’t know, that may be a sign that the bar or restaurant often tries a number of new and interesting beers - a good thing, huh?

7. When out for food, say this to a restaurant that offers limited variety of beer: “We prefer to find a variety of beers when ordering food.” (Then say) a. “Sorry, but we’re leaving now for a restaurant that has more than light lager. ” (Or) b. “We’ll stay, but we are a lot less likely to return until you bring in a wide range of beer flavors.”

8. It’s about flavor. Alcohol is a component to flavor; beer is not an alcohol delivery medium.

9. Beer is a value. Some places will charge more based on rent, overhead, neighborhood, etc. . . . but beer is generally a “flavor per dollar” bargain.

10. If you are a homebrewer, don’t broadcast your beer expertise to your friends unless they ask. While deep knowledge may enhance your beer enjoyment, it may disrupt somebody else’s enjoyment.

11. Be careful of generalizations like “I prefer dark beers,” or “I don’t like dark beers.” It’s like saying, “I like movies whose titles start with the letters A through L,” or “I don’t like red foods.”

12. Never order “a beer,” order by style, by variety, or by specific name. (As the late Michael Jackson said, would you order “a plate of food”?)

13. Be grateful for the variety of beer that is out there, from down the street or from a classic brewing nation. You are living in the best beer time in history.

14. Ask if a brand you are unfamiliar with is independent, or whether it’s owned by a large entity. Then, assuming the beer is good, decide whether it matters to you.

15. If you get a frosted mug or glass, politely ask your server if they have any non-frosted glassware, maybe for the next round. Cold kills flavor nuances.

16. Read beer publications. They are fun, sincere, useful, and they want readers.

17. Attend a beer dinner, tasting and/or a beer festival.

18. Never assume that a dark beer is high in alcohol.

19. Remember that brewers make wort—yeast makes beer. Brewers consider yeast to be something somewhere between a business partner and a beloved pet . . . or even a beloved child in some cases. Respect yeast!

20. Push your chair or barstool in after you get up!

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Beer Blogging Babes from the Blogosphere


Great title huh? Sounds like some sort of awesome 1960s sci-fi film doesn't it? No, it isn't a movie but rather my shout out to women of the beer blogging world.
Anybody who knows me knows that I am one of those guys that will fall for the BMC commercials that show women in next to nothing while wrestling in the mud, drinking beer or whatever. It doesn't matter, if they're half nude they have my attention. I'm a dude, what can I say? Or as my wife calls me, "a pig". And if you look out there in the beer world most of the women are portrayed as mindless big breasted hotties sipping on whatever beer is hot at the moment. As a former sales rep for one of the big boys I've been to a meeting in which they said Beer A is being targeted to women because it has no aftertaste. I swear to the almighty himself that was said at a meeting. Women just aren't getting the respect they deserve in the beer world but fortunately there are some women who are breaking the mold. These women are beautiful, intelligent and really know their beers and they are taking it upon themselves to teach not only other women but men as well about the growing world of craft beer. Sounds like the perfect woman, right guys? The following is a list of beer blogs or websites written by women that I find to be some of the best out there. If for some reason I have missed any that we should be reading please comment and let me know!! As usual, these are in no particular order.
Well, there you have it! My shout out to women beer bloggers! Ladies keep up the great work!!
Stay Buddhalicious!
The Beerbuddha






Abita Beer Dinner


For all you Baton Rouge people:
BATON ROUGE ABITA DINNER SERIES 2008

Saturday, August 23, 2008!Juban’s Restaurant 3739 Perkins Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Beer-Tails at 6:00PMSeating at 7:00PM$65 per person
All inclusive (beer, food, tax & gratuity) Call 225-346-8422 to make reservationsReservations are required and seating is limited--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As you arrive
Abita Amber from the Keg
To Begin
Wild Porcini Mushroom Dusted Seared Diver Scallop Set on an Abita Amber Dijon Reduction Served with Abita Amber
From the Garden
Panko & Caribbean Jerk Flash Fried Louisiana Crawfish Tails With Grilled Romaine Hearts and a Sweet Scotch Bonnet Vinaigrette Served with Abita Jockamo IPA
From the Gulf
Sweet Citrus Marinated Mini Louisiana Shrimp Kabobs with Bermuda Onion And Chili Lime Glaze Served with Abita Wit (Abita Select)
From the Forest
Pulled Ardeng Rabbit Legmeat, Duck-Pear Sausage, Benton’s Slab Bacon, Baby Carrots, Potato Dice And Creole Mustard Demi-Glace “Pot Pie” Served with Abita Fall Fest (Abita Seasonal)
From the Farm
Grilled Lollipop Colorado Lamb Chop with an Abita Purple Haze Glace de Viande And “Mushroomed” New Potato Served with Abita Purple Haze
To Finish
Housemade Sweet Potato Ice Cream and Abita Root Beer Float Served with Abita Root Beer… of course
Terry P. McDonner, Chef de Cuisine
Jason M. Juban, Sous Chef

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Baked Chicken Wings a la Brewski

Baked Chicken Wings a la Brewski

1 1/2 pounds chicken wings or drummettes

1 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1 bottle (12 ounces) beer

1) Cut tips from wings and discard. Cut wings at the joints into 2 pieces. Put the chicken into a bowl; sprinkle with the salt, thyme and pepper. Pour the beer over the chicken and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refridgerate for 2-6 hours.

2) Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a shallow baking pan with tin foil and spray with some nonstick cooking spray.

3) Drain the chicken, reserving some of the marinade. Place your wings on the baking pan in a single layer. Bake for 40 minutes or until the chicken is well browned on both sides. During baking make sure you turn and baste occasionally with the reserved marinade but not during the last 5 minutes of baking.

4) Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!!

Makes 6 servings

Friday, July 18, 2008

My Name is Beerbuddha and I Love Yuengling


OK, so as a "beer nerd", "beer advocate", "beer geek" or whatever it is you call people like myself , I'm not supposed to like beers like Yuengling. But I do. I love it a lot. I could lose my reputation(if I even have one!) and lose readers(reader? I think I may have at least one.)for admitting this. It's my session beer. You know, the beer I could drink every day and I would if I had access to it every day. You see, Yuengling isn't available in the state of Louisiana and that sucks. It means I have to ration my supply. It means that whenever I go on family trips to the east coast I make sure I reserve enough room in the Jeep and save enough money (only $8.99/12-pack at Total Wine in Orlando)to buy a case of it. When other beer fanatics are reserving room and saving money for that limited release that is so hoppy it makes your ass pucker, I'm coming back with what many consider an "average" beer. But it's not average to me. My dad introduced this beer to me not that long ago and I fell in love with it. Now, hold on, before you get your panties in a bunch, I'm not saying it's the best beer I've ever had but man it's close. For me it ranks so high because of it's drinkability and it's taste. It's a great tasting lager that goes down easy and quenches my thirst. I'm not always in the mood for some exotic craft beer but I can always go for a Yuengling. My name is Beerbuddha and I love Yuengling.
Stay Buddhalicious!
The Beerbuddha

The Environment and Beer



As many of you know I'm doing my best to change my ways and become more earth friendly. For those of you who are also attempting to be "green" by helping the environment you need to check out the blog The Beer Activist at http://beeractivist.wordpress.com/. Chris O'Brien is really informative and his blog is dedicated to beer and saving the world. There ain't nothing better than that! Chris writes for a whole bunch of beer magazines and websites such as Zymurgy, American Brewer and Mid Atlantic Brewing News. He even wrote a book called Fermenting Revolution: How to Drink Beer and Save the World, which will be my next read as soon as I'm done with Travels with Barley: A Journey Through Beer Culture in America by Ken Wells. Check Chris' site out today and maybe learn how to help future beer lovers enjoy tomorrow!

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Beer Review: Saison Dupont


Brewery: Brasserie Dupont



Beer: Saison Dupont


Style: Saison/Farmhouse Ale


ABV: 6.50%


Recommended Glassware: Pint Glass, Tulip or Oversized Wine Glass


Food Pairings: Cuisine: Curried, Thai Cheese: Camembert, Fontina, Asiago, Colby, Parmesan Gorgonzola, Limberger General: Salad Meat: Poultry, Fish, Shellfish


Serving Type: Bottle poured into an oversized wine glass


Appearance- This beer poured into the glass a hazy orange amber color with a nice fluffy white head. Sediment could be seen floating throughout glass. Lacing was present throughout the beer.


Smell - Huge earthy aroma, barnyard mustiness with bananas and cloves present as well.


Taste - Nice earthy taste with great citrus and banana flavors.


Mouthfeel - Medium body with medium high carbonation


Overall - A great tasty beer! I really enjoyed this beer a lot and can't wait to get another bottle.





Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Life Lessons


A philosophy professor stood before his class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with rocks, rocks about 2" in diameter.
He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled into the open areas between the rocks.He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was. The professor picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He then asked once more if the jar was full. This time the students were sure and they responded with a unanimous "Yes!"The professor then produced two cans of beer from under the table and proceeded to pour their entire contents into the jar -- effectively filling the empty spaces between the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The rocks are the important things - your family, your partner, your health, your children; things that, if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, your car."
The sand represented everything else. The small stuff. "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued "there is no room for the pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for your life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you."
"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out dancing. There will always be time to go to work, clean the house, give a dinner party and fix the disposal.""Take care of the rocks first -the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the beer represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of beers."
-anonymous

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Zephyrs Baseball and Beer



When you think of summer in America what comes to mind? Lazy days by the pool? Vacations? For those in New Orleans, the heat and humidity? One of the things that comes to my mind is baseball. Nothing is more American than baseball and in my opinion nothing signifies summer better than baseball. Hell, that's why baseball players are called the boys of summer. So when it comes to baseball in New Orleans what do we have? No, we don't have a pro team but we definitely have the next best thing: a minor league one! The Zephyrs! Tickets are only $9 and that's for the front row. Hell, you can even get tickets to sit on the levee! Name another ballpark in America where you can you sit on a levee to watch a baseball game? None that I know of. And what better to do at a baseball game than eat a hot dog and drink a nice cold beer. But for those of us who enjoy better beer what are we supposed to do about choices? Well I went to my first game of the season and was pleasantly surprised by what I found. I started the game with an ice cold Bud Light that my wife bought me. You know the story, not much taste and for $5 I could have just ordered a water. But lucky for me my 2 year old daughter started screaming she wanted french fries and the lady in front told me we had to go all the way to the food places at the 3rd base side. We, of course, were sitting all the way on the first base side. So with daughter in tow I began my long trek in search of fries. On the way I looked at all the little food places checking out what they had in terms of food and beer. It was your typical ball park stuff. Burgers, nachos, pizza, Budweiser, Miller and Coors. Nothing special. But when I got to the 3rd base side of the field the skies opened up and I was in ballpark heaven. The first place that caught my attention was this place called the Smokehouse. Nothing awesome in terms of beer but boys and girls they had Chicago style sausage, nachos covered with BBQ pork and even a brat with sauerkraut. MUCH better choices than on the 1st base side. Then I saw a little booth(sorry folks the name of the place escapes me at this moment) that had nothing but alcohol so naturally I stopped. I looked at the signs which announced their prices. Uh oh! They have Michelob as an import. That's not a good sign. But hey, I said to myself, at least they have Michelob. Not a shabby choice. But then I saw their entire beer selection. I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. OK folks, I'm not saying they had the best craft beer in town but for a ballpark this selection was pretty impressive. I saw the standards such as Bud, Miller and Coors but I also saw Corona, Heineken, Miller Chill, Michelob Ultra, Michelob Amber Bock, Sam Adams, Abita Amber and Stella Artois. Those last four were a wonderful surprise for me and I knew I just had to share this knowledge with my readers. I know, I know they aren't that great of choices but man at least they are choices!! So next time you go to a Zephyrs game go get your beer at the little place on the 3rd base side and make sure you give them shit about Michelob being an import. I did! Oh yeah, I did get my daughter the french fries. What do you think I am a douche bag?


Stay Buddhalicious!!


Beerbuddha

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

The Beer Buddha's Best of New Orleans: Beer Stores



The next installment in The Beerbuddha's Best of New Orleans is beer stores. As many of you know finding good beer in the New Orleans area is tough to do. Hell, I work at a store that has a great selection and to me it is still lacking. Thanks to the work of some(you know who you are) in this town we are getting some great beers. This is a list of the top 5 best stores that I think have the greatest selection of beer in the greater New Orleans area. If a reader sees that I'm missing one please let me know!! These are in no particular order.
1) Acquistapace's Supermarket- 125 E. 21st St, Covington- http://www.acquistapace.com/
3) Whole Foods- Metairie- 3420 Veterans Memorial Blvd- http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/list_stores.php?state=la
4) Martin Wine Cellar-Metairie- 714 Elmeer Ave- http://www.martinwine.com/
5) Steins Market and Deli- 2207 Magazine St- http://www.steinsdeli.net/

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

The Beer Buddha's Best of New Orleans: Beer Bars


New Orleans. One of the best drinking cities in the US. Ranked number 24 on Forbes.com's list of America's Drunkest Cities(http://www.forbes.com/2006/08/22/nightlife-cities-drunk_cx_de_nightlife06_0822intro.html). But, when it comes to beer bars and beer availability we are a virtual beer wasteland. We do however have some great beer drinking establishments and here is a list of the ones I think are the best in terms of beer availability and overall service. In no particular order.


1) The Bulldog-Uptown- 3236 Magazine St- http://bulldog.draftfreak.com/


2) D.B.A.- 618 Frenchman Street- http://www.drinkgoodstuff.com/


3) Lagers- 3501 Veterans Blvd- http://lagersmetairie.draftfreak.com/


4) The Bulldog- Mid City- 5135 Canal Blvd- http://bulldog-midcity.draftfreak.com/


5) Cooter Browns - 509 S. Carrollton- http://www.cooterbrowns.com/



Sunday, July 6, 2008

Beer Review: Saint Somewhere Lectio Divina



Photobucket
Brewery: Saint Somewhere Brewing Company http://www.saintsomewherebrewing.com/
Beer: Lectio Divina
Style: Belgian Strong Pale Ale
ABV: 8.0%
Recommended Glassware: Snifter, Tulip, Oversized Wine Glass
Food Pairing: General: Apertif, Digestive Meat: Game, Salmon
Serving Type: 750ml bottle poured into a chalice
Appearance- This beer poured a nice murky, amber color with a HUGE fluffy off white head which stay around awhile. Lacing is present throughout the life of this beer.
Smell- Tons of fruit smells are present such as cherry, strawberry, plums and hints of apple. Nice malty breadiness is present as well.
Taste- Taste and smell are very similar here with the fruits coming through. The sweet and tart fruit flavors are well balanced. Nice maltiness in the middle which leaves a nice sweetness in the mouth leaving you wanting more.
Mouthfeel- This is a nice medium body brew with medium carbonation.
Overall- Overall this is a great beer made by a small brewery. It's an easy drinking beer with an ABV that leaves you with a warm feeling. The size of the beer(750ml)means you're drinking a fair amount of beer so you need to be in the mood to drink a lot or share with a friend or two. It's once again nice to see an American(Tarpon Springs, FL) brewery making some damn good beer.

Friday, July 4, 2008

Beer Product: Chuggler Mug


So I was checking out a lot of the beer sites I frequently visit and usually I don't click on the ads but when I saw these busty, half naked beauties staring back at me I cracked and clicked. I'm a typical male how could I not click? Look at them!! Yes, yes they are chugging beer and I know I shouldn't be promoting the irresponsible consumption of beer but when hotties like these are staring at you how do you not click on them. Well anyway, by clicking on them I was transported to the site http://www.chuggler.com/ where they sell, get this, beer funnels. You know, those things we made out of parts we found at Walmart or Autozone for less than like a $1. They say that they are the "Ultimate Evolution of the Funnel" and have pictures of drunk coeds using their product to prove it. For a mere $15 you can buy one in black, blue, orange or green and get your drink on!! They even sell T-shirts(for girls only) and even replacement hoses. Well shit, I'm sold since they sell replacement hoses! Anyways, I'll stop teasing them. I'm not trying to make fun I actually think it's a pretty cool idea and wish I had come up with it first. I do have to question why they had to put "Not for use with alcoholic beverages" at the top of the page. What? Not for alcoholic beverages? What the hell is it for then and what are all those coeds drinking in the pictures? Lemonade? Damn disclaimers! That's an argument for a different blog however . Anyways, cool product for those who can't make their own beer funnel and don't mind spending $15 + S/H.

Stay Buddhalicious!

Beerbuddha





Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Beer Fridge Awesomeness


The beer fridge. Every man has had or has a beer fridge or at least should have had or should have. Mini version or regular version they are all stocked with tons of bottles of liquid goodness. But my question is why do we have beer fridges? What is wrong with their regular fridge? Is it the lack of space the wife designated for your beer in the family fridge? You know what I'm talking about guys! You know the bottom left hand corner which fits like only 2 six packs. Is it in your man room(I can't wait to have a man room!)because we all know a man room isn't a man room without a beer fridge. Or perhaps it is in your garage? And if you have a wine cooler in your man room I'll have to question as to whether or not you have a mangina. Yes, I did say mangina. My answer to the great question of why the beer fridge is simple. Because it's awesome. Think about it folks. It's a fridge which is there for the sole purpose of providing you with BEER. Every man needs a beer fridge. Must have one! So men, go out and get yourself a beer fridge today!! Tell your spouse you must have one and that it is necessary to maintaining your manhood. It doesn't matter what size just go get one! Once again thanks for listening to my rants! And yes, that is my beer fridge. No mangina here!


Stay Buddhalicious!


Beerbuddha

Beer Review: Westvleteren 12

Ok, so recently I got my hands on a Westvleteren 12 thanks to a very good friend, Vickie, who gave me one. Yes, she just gave me a Westy. She found out that I've never had one so she gave it to me. Damn I have good friends. The beer community is full of great people and Vickie is one of them. Anyway on to the Westy!

Westvleteren is a belgian brewery founded in 1838 inside the Trappist Abbey of Saint Sixtus of Westvleteren. The brewery brews three beers that have acquired an incredible reputation for taste and quality and are extremely hard to get because of limited availability and very limited distribution. For more info regarding the Westvleteren brewery and their beers go here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westvleteren_Brewery Now on to the tasting notes!

Name: Trappist Westvleteren 12
Style: Quadrupel
ABV: 10.20%
Recommended Glassware: Snifter, Tulip or Goblet
Food Pairing: Cheese: Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Swiss, Blue, Cheddar; General: Digestive; Meat: Beef, Smoked Meat, Game


Serving type: Bottle poured into an oversized wine goblet(all I had available)

Appearance- This beer poured a dark amber color with a huge off white head. Lacing was present throughout the entire beer.

Smell- Nice fruit smells with hints of alcohol. Has nice hints of raisins, dark cherries, chocolate and spices.

Taste- Incredible. Great tastes of dark fruits(plums, dark cherries), chocolate and spices(cloves, anise). The high ABV is hidden well.

Mouthfeel- Nice thick yet smooth mouthfeel with medium high carbonation.

Drinkability- This beer is absolutely incredible. Not quite a perfect 5 for me but damn close. I feel lucky to have been able to try one and now I want more.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

My first blog


OK so I don't pretend to be a writer nor do I pretend to be all knowing regarding beer. What I do know is that I love beer and I love talking about beer. I started this blog site to not only help others with beer questions they may have but also to help myself learn as well. When it comes to beer in the Gulf South we are lacking and I want to help change it. I believe for the most part I have started to help by bringing in new beers to the area and also getting people together for tastings and helping organize Martin Wine Cellars first ever beer dinner. On this site I plan on doing beer reviews, beer store reviews, beer bar reviews, tasting tips, glassware recommendations, beer and food pairing ideas and just general beer talk as well. I think you'll find that this site is free from the pretentiousness which hurts some sites and I hope to bring some fun to the beer world. Enjoy and remember to Stay Buddhalicious!!