Why we picked it: While I've never been a fan, Bill abides by Long Trail and they truly are one of the forefathers of the microbrewery movement. Plus, this seems like an appropriate selection as we shift into winter brews. we do have back to back scoth ales to compare
What Long Trail has to say: A Vermont classic returns in 2017! Built to take the bite from a cold winter night, Hibernator features a rich malt base highlighted by warming notes of caramel and toffee. Don't sleep on this rich, robust winter brew. Last year we awoke the bears with a limited run of cans offered at our brewery in Bridgewater Corners. In 2017, we're culminating a year of throwing it back to our roots, by sending Hibernator out for a full run of distribution in 6pks and 12pks of 12 ounce bottles and on draught. Keep your eyes out for it as the weather cools down!
ABV: 6%
IBU: 32
Fun Fact: The first batch of Long Trail Ale® rolled off the line in 1989. Back then the brewery—known as the Mountain Brewers—was a modest brew house tucked into the basement of the Old Woolen Mill in Bridgewater Corners, with the goal to brew an affordable, American-made alternative to the pricey German and English exports that filled the shelves. At the time, the craft brewing industry in America was on the rise and Vermont was better known for maple syrup than beer. In 1989, Long Trail Ale® hit the taps at local watering holes; blazing the trail for Vermont's craft brewing industry.
Why we picked it: DC Brau is a fantastic local brewery, and this is a fall/winter brew none of us has had (which is kind of remarkable). It's also long boiled ABV.
What DC Brau has to say: Stone of Arbroath has a rich, sweet malty aroma with mellow notes of plum and brown sugar. The mouthfeel has a creamy softness with highlights of toffee and intense caramel that are derived from a lengthy 90 minute boil which encourages caramelizing of dense wort sugars. These complemented by a subtle roast character that finishes with a mild acridity that pleasantly coats ones mouth. Coming in at a warming and subdued 8% ABV it will definitely ruffle many a kilt this spring.
ABV: 8%
IBU: 30
Fun Fact: Arbroath is a former royal burgh and the largest town in the council area of Angus in Scotland, and has a population of 23,902. It lies on the North Sea coast, around 16 miles of Dundee and 45 miles from Aberdeen.
Why we picked it: It was a good value of a nice Flying Dog seasonal collaboration pack, and I was surrounded by stout lovers. I also have heard some people out there kind of like chocolate.
What Flying Dog has to say: Chocolate - because Lord knows the world doesn’t need another fruitcake. This Chocolate Milk Stout takes inspiration and ingredients directly from our friends at Salazon Chocolate Co. Roamers of the earth, pioneers of salted chocolate.
ABV: 6.3%
IBU: 20
Fun Fact: Salazon Chocolate is based in Eldersburg, Md. The origin story: "While on a backpacking trip in Utah during Spring 2009, we'd brought along the usual snacks. You know - energy bars, salty trail mixes, and as always, some organic dark chocolate bars (an energy-dense super food). Sitting around the campfire that night, it struck us that a simple, salted dark chocolate bar would be the perfect energy food. The idea for Salazon Chocolate was born."
Why we picked it: Atlas is a strong local brewery and we thought it would be a interesting contrast to yesterday's pale ale.
What Atlas has to say: Dance of Days is a pale ale generously hopped with beautiful and bright Citra and Mosaic hops. We add wheat malt to the grain bill of the Pale Ale to give the beer a robust body and silk mouth feel that perfectly compliments the floral and citrus flavors from two of our favorite hops. Named in homage to the DC punk scene, this well balanced Pale Ale has hop flavor and aroma for days.
ABV: 5.7%
IBU: 30
Fun Fact: The brew shares the name with the book, which is described as "The nation's capital gave birth to the most influential punk underground of the '80s and '90s. Dance of Days recounts the rise of trailblazing artists such as Bad Brains, Henry Rollins, Minor Threat, Rites of Spring, Fugazi, and Bikini Kill."
Why we picked it: Because variety is the spice of life and wanted to throw an organic-labeled one in the mix. I was secretly hoping it would include salmon.
What Fish Tale has to say: Remarkable bright with a crisp hop finish, Fish tale Organic Pale Ale is a beautifully balanced jewel of brewing. Its four organic malts impart a mellow sweetness that's amply matched by Yakima Cascade hops. Pale ale enthusiasts will treasure this ale as much as they love Cascadia, the beautiful land that inspired it!
ABV: 5%
IBU: 32
Fun Fact: From its home in beautiful Olympia, Washington, Fish Brewing Company has been hand-crafting ales of Northwest proportions since 1993. In 1996, we moved brewing operations across Jefferson Street and into the historic and spacious Skoog Building. (I just want use the word Skoog)
Why we picked it: Supporting local brews, this is a Frederick brewery and rye beer are nice addition to ensure we have a variety of styles and flavors.
What Monacacy has to say: A ruckus of complex flavor is carried in on the amber glow of torchlight. As tension builds between hop bitterness and the malty tones delivered by locally grown and malted grist, a perfect balance is achieved.The robust texture of rye allies itself with the flavors from specialty malts and hops to rebel against preconceived notions of beer. Unseat the crown. Start a Riot.
ABV: 6.2%
IBU: 70
Fun Fact: Founded in 2011, Moncacy in the old Ebert’s Ice Cream plant located in historic Downtown Frederick. How have I not been here?
Why We Picked It: It's an imperial, which is usually good and had a Thanksgiving theme. Plus, Bill wasn't looking when we snatched this one.
What Flying Dog Has to Say: A traditional Czech Pilsner dialed up a notch with light malt notes and a slightly floral and herbal hop character. Pair this 8.4% ABV bad boy with Aunt Kathy's hugs, Cousin Todd's humble brags and Grandpa Gary's fart
ABV: 8.4
IBU: 35
Notes: Apparently, there's a MadLibs like game on the label if you are paying attention.
