New Brew for March 28, 2006

Alesmith Speedway Stout - A couple people noticed the post yesterday and already snagged their bottles, but there are still a few left. If you want a bottle held for pick up I'd suggest calling us; I doubt it'll last more than a day or two.

Lagunitas Gnarlywine - We ended up getting eight cases of this very reasonably priced barleywine. This won't sell out as fast as the Speedway, but it's pretty popular so don't wait too long to stop in.

Deschutes Inversion IPA - I still haven't had a chance to drink one, but expect a review tomorrow. Early reports seem to indicate that it's very similar to the Hop Henge released a couple months ago, albeit in a slightly "toned-down" fashion.

Sierra Nevada Summerfest - I'm guessing this is the same as last year's recipe, but until I get a chance to try one here's the official line:

Commercial Description:
Summerfest is a delightfully refreshing example of a traditional style lager beer. While lighter in body than our ales, Summerfest displays significant hop aroma and a tangy hop bite. The long lagering period adds a smoothness that makes this beer a great summertime treat.

Bittering Hops: Perle & Saaz
Beginning Gravity: 11.8 Plato
Finishing Hops: Saaz
Ending Gravity: 2.7 Plato
Malts: Two-row Pale, Dextrin Malt, Munich
Yeast: Lager Yeast (bottom fermenting)

I could rant about "summer" beers coming out a week after the beginning of spring (or winter beers coming in October), but I suppose if they want to push the season that's their decision. It's tough to think about drinking summer beers when it's still rainy and in the 50's in PDX, but I suppose it's "summery" down in California by now. Either way, if you're in the mood for a summer seasonal this is your first opportunity.