Anchor Brewing Our Special Ale (2011)

It's the end of another year and the begining of another beer blog post. I tried to be thematic with this month's selection and go with something...festive. Something...celebratory. Something...special. Ironically (or not) I chose exactly that, both literally and figuratively.

The Beer:
Anchor's Our Special Ale 2011 was my choice for a holiday beer to review for my blog. I traversed the aisles at my local beer distributor (who I am no longer patronizing due to some shoddy customer service) seeking something that was both iconic in it's tradition of producing well-known ales, while at the same time providing an offering that is both sought out and collected. And Anchor's seasonal selection fit that criteria perfectly. This is an ale that they have produced consecutively for 37 years often slightly adjusting the recipe but always remaining true to the intent behind providing a beer to be celebrated at the end of the year. And all that means just about nothing to me if the beer sucks. I mean, who cares about intent and tradition and legacy if you don't like the thing created just to fit those standards. It's kinda like the Charlie Brown holiday specials for me. I get it. They're tradition. They're nostalgic. They're...sweet? But I can't for the life of me stand them. I just don't get the appeal. Ok, the music was always enjoyable in those cartoons. But the whining, the complaining, the utter lack of humor. How the hell do these specials bring in such powerhouse ratings on TV year after year? I'll never understand it.
But back to the beer. As a whole, I was underwhelmed by this beer. But not due to it being bad or lacking anything. It was a perfectly acceptable spiced ale. Notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice were present. The taste was malty and sweet with a little kick of pine. The color was a deep, dark amber and it smelled just like Christmas (if that makes any sense...but it's exactly what I expected). Yet, because this is a beer that I had built up as being more than it was, I ended up let down. You see, year after year (uhhh...for the last 3 years) I had picked up a 6-pack of Our Special Ale with the intent on drinking one and saving one. Yet at the last minute, I'd always be invited to a holiday party without anything to bring. So, upon opening the 'fridge, I'd see it sitting there and take it with me. And every year, I'd drop it off on the counter of said party and before I could have one, they were all gone. So naturally, I believed that this beer was so good that merely upon seeing it, people were rushing to drink it. And although I was disappointed that I'd never get to sample it, I was content at being the party hero for bringing the greatest beer imaginable. After having it this year though, I've come to realize that I was simply going to parties with lots and lots of drunks happy that someone was bringing more alcohol to drink.

The Buzz:
There isn't a whole lot to talk about in regards to a buzz for this beer. It doesn't have a high abv, only 5.5%, and yet due to the heavy spicing of this ale, I had little desire to drink much more than the minimum 36oz. The combination of those two factors resulted in a night with little more than a minor tingle in the brain. I appreciated the fact that this beer wasn't an alcoholic bomb since it came in a 6-pack and therefor could allow for maximization consumption for this month's test. Often, with beers that I drink in 12oz intervals, I find myself pining for just a little more once my limit is reached. Yet, this time --- and possibly the first time --- I was happy that the opposite scenario presented itself and I could stop once the minimum was reached. Once again, this experience reminded me of those damn Charlie Brown cartoons. Where I was just happy to get to a commercial break when watching them with others so that I could flip the channel to something...ANYTHING...more entertaining. Seriously, I could never get past the first 15 minutes of listening to the bald bastard bitch about the most insignificant of issues. What a pussy...

The Hangover:
I suppose the one thing that I should be thankful for in regards to Our Special Ale is that (unlike other Anchor beers) when you just don't feel the need to drink a lot of it, you aren't punished the following morning.with an unjust hangover. When I awoke the next morning, outside of feeling a little dehydrated, there were no other symptoms pointing towards that of a hangover. I was able to function regularly throughout the day and even operated heavy machinery (that is, if you count a lawn mower as heavy machinery. I do, those fuckers are heavy). So, in continuing with my Charlie Brown analogies, this hangover felt much like the end of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" or "Charlie Brown, You're My Hero". When they're over, I'm both parts relieved and frustrated that I wasted my time with them.

The Verdict:
And now for a surprising twist...I really liked this beer. I really appreciate it on many many levels. The fact that it is tradition and an annual release in a small window around the holidays adds a certain level of panache to it that can't be quantified or judged. The same way eggnog sells like hotcakes from November to January, I understand the need to brew, buy, and drink a beer made just for this time of year. And even if it isn't perfect or lives up to your expectations, it's the anticipation that matters. The excitement to see a familiar product on the shelves year after year knowing that you can only get it for so long before it won't be around ever again (until the next year of course). The comfort, the reliability, the familiarity with something you have made into a tradition is immeasurable in terms of being good or bad. It just is. It reminds us that no matter how much has changed for better or worse, some things will always be there for you. Kinda like the way those damn Charlie Brown movies seem to do.

BrewDog Dogma

This blog appears to be catching up with me. It's about 11pm on November 30th. Rarely do I let a blog post go this late. And at a time of year when there are an abundance of special and seasonal releases, choosing what to drink and review is almost as daunting a task as getting this post done before the clock strikes midnight. While I aspire to randomly select what I drink and when, it's not beyond me to gravitate towards beers that others may not have heard of or tried. I enjoy hunting down rare brews and limited editions. Not only do I get to feel all special and unique amongst the beer-loving community, but I get to sample a product that was more likely a labor of love from the brewer than a labor of...well...labor. And, yet, with all that said, this month I consciously sought out to drink and evaluate something from the Scottish brewery known as BrewDog. Why? Because I'm a part-owner of it! Don't believe me? Read on.

The Beer:
As an owner of an emerging and respected brewery, I had to remind myself to remain partial to my evaluation and review process. In selecting a beer to drink, I looked past BrewDog's flagship beer, Punk IPA and instead delved into one of their slightly more niche offerings, Dogma. Similar to last month's entry, this beer is also classified as a spiced ale. Also similarly, the list of ingredients added to this brew are truly unique: guarana, California poppy, kola nut, & Scottish heather honey are not your average additions to any beer --- even one in the spiced ale category. When reading the label at the store (no, being a part-owner does not get me free beer. I pay just like everyone else does) I immediately thought that there was no way that I'd actually enjoy this one. Sure, it may different than much of what is on the shelf. It would probably be tolerable. It might even be tasty. But in no way did I think that it'd be something I'd buy again and again. And after the first 500mL bottle, I was fairly certain that my initial instincts would hold up. Dogma was a very sweet beer with a large hop aroma but little in bitterness laced in. The spice kick that I was able to note and enjoy in last month's beer was less present here despite equally compelling componenets and a significantly higher concentration. This wasn't a bad beer. Nowhere nearly as off-putting as I had expected it to be. But it wasn't something that I had to put down and take note of. I wasn't surprised in any way. And yet, by the time I was through the second bottle, I came to apprecaite Dogma for what it was - a non-traditional spiced ale with interesting ingredients reigned in to represent a serious take on a rising type of beer. Knowing what I know of BrewDog's brewing philosophy and marketing strategies, it was actually refreshing to see them attempt something more nuanced and subtle. It was also refreshing to know that my money is in a company that knows what it's doing!

The Buzz:
Whereas Dogma teetered around the Mendoza Line in terms of taste, it actually fell onto the right side of the curve when it came to a buzz. The two 500mL bottles packed a 7.8% abv and allowed me to maintain a respectable feel-good vibe. And again, without reffering to the label beforehand, I had preconceived notions of what exactly I was going to encounter in the realm of alcoholic content. You see, BrewDog is perhaps most notorious for pushing the limits of alcohol contained in what is technically considered a beer. They first released Tactical Nuclear Penguin with 32% abv. At the time it was the strongest beer ever produced on record. Shortly thereafter, they followed it up with Sink the Bismark, a 41% abv beer that was created solely to reclaim the title of most potent beer from Shorschbrau Brewery (hence the play on the title, with Bismark referrencing the famed warship from the country of which they were attempting to dethrone). Finally, in one last shot to again reclaim the title of strongest beer ever, BrewDog made a beer called The End of History. A 55% abv freeze-distilled beer that was packaged in the stuffed dead bodies of small animals. That is correct. Bottles of beer packed into the taxidermied corpses of small animals. Only 12 bottles were ever made, but THAT, is the definition of bad ass if you ask me! And yet another reason as to why I put my money into this company.

The Hangover:
After a night of drinking two bottles of a beer that was perfectly average in every regard, I sort of anticipated a hangover that would match. The sort of hangover that starts out a little rough upon first waking. Headache, stomachache, fatigue, dehydration. But one that disappears shortly after a coffee, some breakfast, a good shower, and some fresh air. And wouldn't you know it --- that is exactly what I got. Even though the quantity of beer consumed was on the lower end of my required limit, the combination of nearly 8% abv and what was likely a high sugar concentration in the beer resulted in what was a very average (although tolerable) hangover. While this wasn't my first taste or sample of a BrewDog beer, it was my first occasion of testing their beers on my physiology. Based on the results, I would (and likely will) attempt further experiments with some of their other offerings. Perhaps I should try out the aforementioned Punk IPA since it's readily available and comes in convenient (for this blog's purposes anyway) 4-packs. Whatever I choose, it will most certainly not be one of their extreme brews as both the abv AND price point would kill me. And I've already put enough money into BrewDog as is.

The Verdict:
BrewDog's Dogma was not quite what I had hoped it would be. But then again, I had mixed feelings on what I was expecting to experience in the first place. On the one hand, I wanted this beer to be perfect if only because I so strongly believe in BrewDog's philosphy and strategy in branding their beers. They take risks and don't apologize for their direction. They push limits and embrace collaboration. They're very similar to Stone Brewing here in the US and there is a reason that brewery is still a favorite of mine despite not producing any beers that I'd hold up as personal favorites (yet, that's not to say that I don't enjoy many of them immensely). If nothing else though, one must truly respect BrewDog for their beer-naming prowess. Where else would you find a beer just hovering above non-alcoholic content (1.1% abv) called Nanny State that was brewed in direct response to the criticism they received for the high strength of their beers. Yep, I'm pretty happy to be an investor in BrewDog. Can't you tell?

Bruery/Elysian/Stone La Citrueille Cèleste de Citracado

It's October 31st and all the kids have gone home for the night. Their baskets and bags filled with candy. It is truly one of the greatest holidays growing up from infancy through grade school. Then in high school and on through college, candy takes a back seat and in comes excuses to act a fool and dress (and oftentimes undress) even more absurd. Yep, Halloween pretty much hits on all notes. That is, until you get a little older and it falls on a work night. Then, the only thing to look forward to is sitting down with a great beer and writing about other great beers. At least that's how I perceive this holiday. And this month I try a special limited release of a collaboration brew from Stone Brewery, Elysian Brewery, and The Bruery. They've concocted an absolutely unique seasonal beer that takes a spin on the classic "Pumpkin Ale" with ingredients I've never even heard of much less tasted before.

The Beer:
Well this right here is a delightful beer I must say. Just downright delightful. Which, I suppose with the level of talent associated with this collaboration, should come as no surprise. But yet it did. I am not really a fan of spiced beers. And even less of one for pumpkin beers. Yet, at it's essence, that is what Stone, Elysian, & The Bruery guys made here. A spiced pumpkin beer. Yet they went the gourmet route. Rather than the traditional pumpkin flavors - cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves; This brew contains fenugreek, lemon verbena, and birch bark. Fenugreek for Christ's sake! When was the last time, or rather first time you've even heard the word fenugreek? That's the type of word that you make up when you're trying to impress someone about world knowledge. "'Excuse me sir, do you know the history of this painting?.' 'Oh, why yes I do. That painting is a classic relic from the FenuGreek era of the ancient Palpalonians. By the way, would you like to go get a drink?'" See! You could totally use that line in a museum the next time some attractive young lady asks you a question you haven't the faintest idea of the answer to.
But this beer was all about layers. From aroma to taste to palate, it was hitting on all notes for me. I can't exactly think of a point of reference for the aforementioned fenugreek or lemon verbena for that matter, but I've had my fair share of birch beers in the past. Granted they all fell into the root beer category, but I certainly was able to recall those sensory memories at times while drinking this beer. It was actually a refreshing beer. One that I'd gladly drink again and again, if only this weren't a limited release...

The Buzz:
Shortly after my first sip of La Citrueille, I was slightly concerned that I'd quickly down the three beers and thus give myself a fairly respectable buzz. Even with a low abv (just 5%), the rate of consumption for such a great beer might trigger a slightly drunken state that I'd normally achieve part way through only my 2nd beer. But, once again the excellent flavor profile packed into this beer allowed me to properly savor each sip, thus negating any binge buzz that might otherwise occur. So while any significant buzz never set in over the 90 minutes I took to drink the three beers, this was one of the truly rare and justified instances where I wished that I'd had a 4th beer to drink. Both because the taste was so great and also because any desired level of inebriation had yet to be reached. So while I may have been a beer short this particular night, I am now however determined to go out and buy some more bottles for future consumption and sharing. This is most certainly a beer I'd like others to taste, if only this wasn't a limited release...

The Hangover:
With the first 2/3rds of my monthly experiment done with, I had my fingers crossed that such an awesome beer wouldn't disappoint me in the third (and potentially most important) factor. And despite my lack of buzz and the low level of alcoholic content, I've had similar scenarios prove to be disastrous the following morning. So when I awoke early to find that I felt completely fine, I was at first elated and then quickly concerned that any return to sleep might somehow trigger a physiological response from my body to begin the toxin release via pain and punishment and fire and brimstone via fenugreek explosions out of every pore. Alas, after a couple more hours of rest, I woke for the day still feeling fine. La Citrueille Cèleste de Citracado had passed the test. Three for three. A total success. I'd like to be able to shake the hands of the various brewers who participated in this beer if only to let them know that I appreciate their efforts to step outside of the box and craft a truly unique beer with a distinct flavor set that perfectly balances the light crispness of a session beer with the depth and complexity of a seasonal powerhouse, all while preserving my delicate alcoholic reactions. Oh, if only this wasn't a limited release...

The Verdict:
If it hasn't already been made apparent from the previous three paragraphs, I am a big fan of this beer. Every element of La Citruille (aside from the absurd name) worked for me. It's not often that I'll restock my fridge with multiple beers I've already tried before. Occasionally, I'll pick up an old favorite every now and again or I'll order something I truly love when I see it on tap. But this is one of those instances where I am going to actively seek it out in the stores next time I'm out and buy a few more bottles. Being a seasonal style, it's something that I'd like to have stocked in the fridge to share around the coming holidays but also because when I see it now, it could easily be the last time I come across it because this is unfortunately only a limited release.

Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Juniper Black Ale (Camp #16)

Here is the final installment of my Sierra Nevada Beer Camp series. It's a fitting time to finish this series off as summer officially ended just a few days ago. As I prepare to write this last entry for the Beer Camp beers, it dawns on me that the varieties included in this package seem to represent the four seasons. The Double IPA representing spring, the California Common the summertime beer, the Weizenbock obviously a nod to Germany & Oktoberfest, and this Juniper Black Ale a very strong reference for winter's feel and flavors.

The Beer:
I had put off drinking this beer for quite some time. Not because I didn't want it or anything, but I always felt like there were better options in my fridge. Belgian blonde's, imperial porters, coffee stouts. Beers that I hadn't ever had before and ones that I knew I loved all seemed to jump ahead of Black Juniper Ale when it came decision time. But knowing that I had this blog to write and that I was committed to completing this series, I picked a Saturday night when I had little to do and nothing to watch. I opted to take my time with these beers doing my best to deconstruct the aromas, flavors, textures, and palates. I wanted to feel like I really knew what I was doing and understand what went into this beer. I even took notes! Something I swore I'd never do for these experiments as that isn't the type of behavior one would find themselves doing while at a bar or a party. Fortunately, those notes were taken via audio recordings on my phone halfway through the 2nd beer and I was too imbibed to save them properly. So, alas, once again I am to rely only on sensory memory alone to asses this beer.
As far as taste goes, this was an excellent beer. It's a spiced beer, although I found it to be very hoppy for something without the IPA label branded on it. I imagine that came from the junipers in addition to whatever hops were added in this batch. There was also a smokey element to the beer. Not quite in the same ways that smoked porters come across, but more in a smooth malty flavor. Possibly from the dark grains added to give this beer it's black color. All in all, I very much enjoyed the taste of it. Much more so than I had anticipated. It wasn't overly sweet or bitter and despite it's impressive alcoholic content, it was very drinkable. Something I'd definitely have again, especially if I was to ever find it on tap somewhere.

The Buzz:
Where the good time-happy flavors left off, the great time-super buzz kicked in! I was fairly certain that this beer would do its job in getting me tipsy being that it clocked in at a very nice 8.5% abv. Three of these babies in one night while catching up on all sorts of TV was sure to have me ready for silliness as the night went on. Fortunately I was joined by the lovely gang of Paddy's Pub from Philadelphia. And I must say, they are one wacky bunch! By the time I was halfway through my drinking session, I was in the greatest of moods and thoroughly enjoying my couch surfing time. I was also wishing that it was later in the year and cold and rainy out. This beer would make for the perfect cool, winter night by the fire. It was warming without being burning like liquors. I also was wishing that I owned a cabin in the Pacific Northwest overlooking the cliffs of the ocean and listening to waves crash beneath me. And in that cabin I'd have mounds of fresh hardwood that I chopped myself with an axe. My dogs would be curled up on the bearskin rug by the fire as I sat in an old rocking chair stroking my beard of epic proportions. Yes, this would be a glorious life. And my only neighbor would be miles away. And his name would be Ron Swanson. And we would eat bacon together like men do. And I would share with him this beer that I so thoroughly enjoyed!

The Hangover:
Fearing the worst the next morning, I awoke to the dogs begging to be fed as usual. With a headache that seemed to start at the crown of my skull and extend all the way to my liver, it had appeared that my fears were indeed warranted. I did my best to remedy the situation with Advil and a large glass of water. However, with the severity of this headache, I didn't have too high of hopes for later in the day. Miraculously though, I awoke a few hours later feeling much better. Not completely rid of the pain that existed in my cerebral lobes, but considerably better than I was just hours earlier. After a little food and a lot of coffee, the headache had more or less dissipated. As the day went on, I certainly didn't feel 100%, but I was happy to know that the Juniper Black Ale was both excellent to drink and not overly harsh on my body. Again, this great brew came through and has me excited to discover it some time down the road in some random bar.

The Verdict:
Another great beer from Sierra Nevada. This one is as good, if not better, than the California Common that came in the same pack. Where as that one evicted thoughts, emotions, and tastes of summer, the Juniper Black Ale took me to the other side of the calendar. The other two beers in this pack (the Double IPA & Weizenbock) were both middle of the road and fairly forgettable --- not that they were bad per se, just not something I'd really seek out and/or order again. All in all, this summer series of Sierra Nevada's experimental offerings has been excellent. They are a phenominal brewery that simultaneously pushes boundaries while brewing highly recognizable craft beers. In fact, I'm drinking their Estate Homegrown Ale 2011 right now...and its A-MAZING!

Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Weizenbock (Camp #37)

In this third installment of my summertime drinking series featuring Sierra Nevada's Beer Camp variety pack, I tackle their international entry of a Weizenbock, better known on this side of the Atlantic as a wheat beer. Generally not being a fan of wheat beers, I did my best to approach this particular beverage with an open mind and eager taste buds.

The Beer:
Immediately upon pouring my first beer for this month's test, I began to think about some food to pair this with. Typically, I don't do this as I like to experience the beer in its purity without the compliments of any other flavors or textures. I am aware that beers, much like wines, are often heightened by the pairing of a good food, be it cheese, nuts, fruit, or even ice cream. There is a logical and sensible reason as to why we eat and drink in tandem of one another. However, despite my cravings, I opted to drink this first beer on its own. And so I sat back and put on some season 3 of "True Blood" and began my observations. What came to mind first and foremost was naturally wheat and malty flavors. Less fruity than most wheat beers I've had in the past, and certainly more malty that those same experiences. But there was also a sweetness to the beer that I couldn't quite get a handle on. This wasn't tart fruit sweetness from something like a lambic. Nor was it a chocolaty sweetness often found in stouts. I was intrigued. I was curious. I was actually trying in earnest to smell and taste every sip to narrow down this flavor. Although I can't particularly say that I was enjoying the taste on its own merits, I was thinking hard enough about the flavor profile of a beer that I completely ignored the fact that Sookie walked in on Eric vampire-banging some stripper in his basement lair. So, either my fondness for genre-kink has dissipated, or my interest in all-thing beer has really skyrocketed since last summer.

The Buzz:
Without being able to figure out just what I was tasting layered within this Weizenbock, I found myself well into the second beer and second episode of my mini "True Blood" marathon. About half way through both (and not particularly enjoying either) two things began to occur to me: 1) at almost 2/3rds of the way into this experiment, I was not even buzzed; and 2) this beer was getting worse over time. Not worse in an undrinkable way, but worse in an undesirable way. It may have simply been the abundance of malt and lingering sweetness with each sip, but I was not exactly charging to the fridge to crack open the third beer. Naturally, in the name of science, I pushed forward and drank that third beer taking a break between #2 & #3 to go to the bathroom, have a small bite to eat and gear up for the third episode of "Crazy ol' Sookie & the Gang". Not long into the third beer, I found myself struggling to stay awake. And although I'm fairly certain it was not from a heavy buzz, maybe it was because the Weizenbock is just the type of beer to lull one into a state of rest. It is carb-heavy, it is dense, and without the punch of bitterness from distinct hops, it does little to keep your palate sharp and your mind fresh (or...uhh...flip that...).

The Hangover:
Unlike most of these monthly drinking sessions, this one was followed up by a day of work. Not a regular nine-to-five (or in my professional eight-to-six) day with a packed office and meetings and headaches (ok, there were headaches), but rather I went in on a Sunday to make up some work. Expecting a little hangover but nothing substantial, I was sure that I'd be alright. I was not. No, I felt like shit most of the time there. Not Lagunitas shit, but uncomfortable and tired shit. And while work on any Sunday would make one feel awful, I'd have to say that having no air conditioning at work and a lack of food options only compounded my misery. It wasn't until almost two-thirds of the way through the day that  I started to feel some relief. And additionally, throughout the entire day, no coffee, no water, no food, no mint could eliminate a lingering aftertaste that was thinly sweet and bready.  For the lack of enjoyment beyond the first beer, the payoff of a mild hangover that lasted the better part of my day was not worth repeating this test any time soon.

The Verdict:
As with all the Sierra Nevada Beer Camp beers, this one was interesting to try. Unlike the California Common however, this isn't one that I'd seek out regularly or really have again under normal circumstances. I'm not a wheat beer fan, so naturally I wouldn't choose their Weizenbock over another option if given the chance. That said, if I found myself at a Bavarian Hefeweizen Festival in the fjords of Sweeden and my only choices were wheat beers & pretzels, then yeah, I'd probably give this one another shot. As it stands though, the Weizenbock has been my least favorite of the three Beer Camp beers I've tried so far. Next month bring me the last variety and a chance to reflect on the entire series as well as the summer as a whole.


Oh yeah...that taste I couldn't figure out...it was banana!

Sierra Nevada Beer California Common (Camp #8)

Welcome to the second in a series of 4 tests trying each of the varieties offered in Sierra Nevada's Beer Camp 12-pack. This month, I give the ubiquitously named California Common a try.

The Beer:
One of the first things that I took notice of regarding this beer was the style. The other three varieties of beer in this pack are easily identifiable (Spiced Beer, Double IPA, & Weizen Bock). They say so on the labels or are easily categorized based on description. California Common, however, presented a bit of a mystery to me. Was this a lager? A Pilsner? A....Common? I was a little perplexed. And, as with all my monthly tests, I do no research beforehand but rather allow the tastes, aromas, flavors, and colors help guide my thoughts on the beer. So upon initially tasting the California Common, it immediately struck me as a lager. Was it brewed with bottom-fermenting yeasts? No clue. But the scents and appearance reminded me of  that of a mass-market BMC (Bud, Miller, Coors) beer. Or even one of the country's "premium" imported beers (funny story, while in a local bar this weekend, a couple from out-of-town came and sat down next to me & my wife and asked the bartender for a beer list. Now, this bar serves exclusively California Craft Brews. No exceptions, no excuses. Clearly, this couple didn't understand how they couldn't even have Bud Light available --- seriously, they said that out loud --- but when they asked if they carried any "premium" beers, the bartender was perplexed. She answered that many of their beers are seasonal releases, but none are labeled as premium. Well...too confused to continue, the couple put down the beer list and said they were going to go somewhere else because this place was weird. I guess that goes to illustrate that despite a growing craft beer culture here in Southern California, there is still a long way to go before it reaches the mainstream). Granted, there was a little more complexity to this particular beer than a Corona or Heineken; And it was certainly more tolerable with a better (neutral?) aftertaste. But as I continued to drink and made my way on to the second beer, the taste actually grew on me a little and lightened up a bit. That may not make much sense, but perhaps my palate was originally expecting something in line with an IPA (this is Sierra Nevada we're talking about here). However, as I drank more, I started to enjoy it more. Not particularly because of it's flavors but rather its texture. It was light and crisp and brought me back to the days of drinking in the summertime out in the yard while playing cards and getting wasted with friends. You know...what does everyone call them??? Oh yeah --- the good ol' days! By the time I was into my third beer, I thought that this was something I enjoyed because it was remarkably refreshing despite not being outstandingly flavorful. This may have been the first time that I appreciated a beer for something other than it's taste, appearance, or palate. What I appreciated most was its nostalgia!

The Buzz:
Being the least potent of the 4 varieties in this pack and coming from the same brewery; I didn't think that there was any feasible way this beer could make me any drunker than last month's Double IPA. In theory, the brewing process, while inherently different because of the difference in style, should be somewhat similar. Same water, same facilities, same equipment. And in all likelihood they were using similar malts & hops (if not the same type, from the same provider and grown in the same fields). So, how could a beer with a lower abv (6.5% in the California Common versus 8.5% in the Double IPA) make me feel drunker? Of course factors such as my diet, rate of consumption, etc. would play a role. But in all honesty, I don't vary the variables all that much. On Saturday nights (when I almost always do these experiments) I often eat the same sort of foods at the same times of the day. And, being that most of these tests take place over the course of 2-4 hours, there isn't a whole lot of room for wildly different pacing in the consumption. Yet, Sierra Nevada's California Common seemed to get me a bit drunker. By the end of the third beer I was craving a fourth (a good sign that a nice deep buzz has set in). And I was hungry (another sign that, at 11pm, the alcohol has done it's job well). Who knows exactly how or why such an aberration occurred. All that mattered to me was that California Common one again proved itself to be a beer that reminded me of good times of days past.

The Hangover:
So with all this nostalgia surrounding this interesting brew, would my hangover follow suit and provide me with the misery of my past? Well, after a decent sleep and waking up to help my wife paint our newly installed picket fence, I was nervous that it would! All the signs of death were there - headache, aches, pains, nausea, and sweats. The only thing that I couldn't confirm was the telltale signs of emitting alcoholic odors via my sweat. Whether that was present or not was masked by being outdoors and surrounded by fumes of paint. For the first hour or so, I was equally upset that a beer I enjoyed would do this to me, but also somewhat excited that perhaps I'd taken a big step in narrowing down a style of beer that I'm allergic to. California Common had all the traits of a Budweiser or Red Stripe or Coors Light. Except...you know...it was good! The other difference between this beer and those other, infinitely less appetizing beers was that unlike the hangover from those beers, this one disappeared rather quickly. After a couple hours of painting, I came in and had my coffee, took my shower and grabbed a quick bite to eat. Shortly after, I felt more or less fine. The intensity of my hangover from just hours earlier was all but gone. So whereas before I was conflictedly upset, now I was conflictedly elated. What was once a sure link between whatever allergy I might have to beer was now just another complication in narrowing down what (if anything) causes my body to react so harshly to certain brews.

The Verdict:
With such a roller coaster ride of thoughts regarding California Common, one might think that this beer was the missing link in my drinking experiences. But having gone through the full spectrum of thoughts on something as trivial as a beer, I can safely say that in the end this beer was really just above average. I'd certainly drink it again should Sierra Nevada ever regularly produce it. But I also wouldn't seek it out while at a bar or restaurant. Instead, it's the type of six-pack that I'd get when stocking up for a trip to tailgate before a baseball game. Or a day at the beach. Or a bar-b-que at a park. Or a pre-concert parking lot party before a Springsteen concert. Ahhhh, yes...the days of our past. Where we can't go back and can only relive them in our minds and senses. So I'll drink California Common again and it'll help me remember my first summer in my first house.