Craft Beer NYC

This unique fun little brew was commisioned to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Monty Python back in 1999.   14 years later- it's still going strong.   Ironically we only saw this for the first time this August at West Side Market.  I'm on the lookout for other Black Sheep brew's but according to their website The Holy Grail is the most popular in the US and Canada.   A nice variety of english malts and hops, this ale has a surprising fruity nose and an even bitter aroma suitable for a queen.   Tempering over burning witches provides a nice crisp finish. 4.7% ABV 6 out of 10 Spamalot's

A mysterious prophet once said that Left Handed people rule the world!  That might not be true, but we control the important parts of cultural life of all kinds including beer.  Left Hand Brewery was actually named after a Native chief, Niwot whose tribe spent winters in the Colorado area.  Niwot is the Southern Arapahoe word for Left Hand.  Has anyone remembered grabbing those cans of Guinness that have a nitrous capsule.   The folks at Left Hand have been the first brewers in the world to bottle the nitrous powered stout without the capsule being in the bottom of the bottle or can.   The Milk Stout has amazing flavor with hints of coffee, chocolate, if poured hard out of the bottle to unleash the creamy head of delight.  This is a true champion, can't compare to Guinness, but its a must try for anyone looking for a great American Stout.  9.0 out of 10 'South Paws' ABV 6.0%

River Horse Brewery from New Jersey is a new entry in the craft beer scene.  Started in 2007, based in Ewing, NJ, they have a diverse portfolio of brews.  Honestly I was not impressed by the Belgian Tripel Ale, it was overly bitter and not smooth at all.  The strong % provides a nasty aftertaste, and no River Horse can save the day- or is it a Hippo on the label? 10% ABV 4 out of 10 Jimmy Hoffa's-  keep it buried in the swamp http://www.riverhorse.com/html/started.php

Breckenridge Brewery is one of the original local breweries from Colorado that started in the early 90's.   Now available in 32 states- they are now producing over 50,000 barrels annually and have gotten into NYC Markets.   The Lucky IPA was the first Breckenridge selection I have tasted.   A decent IPA- bold smooth flavor filled with some of the best mountain hops Amarilla, Magnum, Perle, Cascade, Apollo, Fuggle, and Goldings.   The subtle tribute to the Tivoli Brewery History is an interesting American tale.  Started back in 1861 with the Gold Rush-  Colorado was home to the 2nd longest continuously operating brewery in the country when it closed in the 1960's.   Yuengling still tops the crown from Pennsylvania as the oldest. http://tivolibrewingco.com/the-tivoli-story/ 6.2% ABV 7.5 out of the 10 Denver Gold Nuggets http://www.breckbrew.com/about/story

I have to start this week's post saying that Watermelon flavored beer is something everyone should try!  This American style wheat beer is no gimmick.  Created by the master brewers at 21st Amendment know for their Live Free or Die IPA, especially for the summer season. Enjoy with a cool ocean breeze and remember one of the greatest surprise scenes in movie history while you study this unique and fun can design- Lady Liberty and Charlton Heston anyone?   Insert second Amendment meets the 21st Amendment joke here. 4.9% ABV 8.5 out of baltimore style 'watermelons' fresh off the docks!  http://21st-amendment.com/beers/hell-or-high-watermelon/