Swearing, when judiciously employed, is brilliant. Sometimes, there’s simply no non-cuss word that will do, no mild alternative that can add the same perfect spice and flavor to a sentence. Arguably, one of the sweariest – and certainly one of the most quotable – films of all time is the Brit cult comedy Withnail and... View Article
I’ve gotten some strange responses over the years when I tell people that I’m a beer judge. Some people don’t believe it’s a real skill―“Is that like a bikini inspector?” or that it doesn’t involve work― “How hard is it to drink beer… frat boys must be experts.” Others think I must be quite sly... View Article
Our contributors reflect on the quest for rare beer. Act on the opportunity to buy several vintages of a particularly excellent beer, because getting a group together for a vertical tasting is a ton of fun and a great way to hone your pallet.―Rob Ulich For me, beer acquisition has transcended the concept of a... View Article
Three beers that were mentioned so often, they are in a class by themselves: the rare beers that everyone knows about, but few can buy. Alaskan Smoked Porter, Alaskan Brewing Co. (Juneau, AK) One of the most award-winning beers in the world, produced annually since 1988 from malt smoked at a Juneau salmon smokery. Wisconsin... View Article
There sometimes comes a moment in an evening of hospitality when the host recognizes that a guest is especially appreciative of good beer and offers, “I have something set aside that I think you’d enjoy.”
When it comes down to it, I’m really a draft guy. I like being at the spot when a rare beer is available by the glass: pour, pffft, it’s gone. Though I will take the occasional growler if it’s allowed! In which case, it’s worth making the trip to Selin’s Grove Brewing in Selinsgrove, PA,... View Article
A sip of beer is an illusory experience. The sensations are fleeting, and there you are, sniffing, exhaling, trying to express the moment before it is gone. Jerald O’Kennard, director of the Beverage Testing Institute, has some tips to sharpen your perceptions, and possibly even increase your enjoyment of your beer. 1. Build your sense... View Article
In front of you are two glasses of India pale ale. They both fit the parameters of the style: stronger in alcohol and containing more hops than a classic pale ale, but less of either than an imperial IPA. Both beers are medium gold in color, clear and bright. Both pour with small but persistent... View Article
Call me BeerMail. It is no secret that beer fanatics in a certain place (Yourtown, USA) in a certain time (right now) long to plant their lips upon a snifter, tulip or chalice of some rarified, vaunted, practically mythical ale. Likewise, it is no wonder that some people will go through the Ahabesque task of... View Article
