Dundee Oktoberfest

Dundee Oktoberfest - 5.5% abv Limited Release Marzen Style Lager, born in Rochester NY. In a word: Boring. I think it's really an American style lager with some food coloring. It left no impression upon any of my senses except raising my interest level in trying a different kind of beer. Don't get me wrong, it isn't bad or undrinkable, it's very drinkable...and worth trying, especially if found on sale. It's just boring.
Beer Bloggles Score: 49%

Allagash Victor Ale

Allagash Victor Ale - 9.0% abv. Belgium style ale brewed with cabernet franc grapes in a highly limited annual release from the Allagash Tribute Series. I expected an unpleasant grape-flavored lambic, but instead surprisingly found a high quality Belgium-style ale with delicate notes of mild wine in a beautiful balance that finishes slightly spicy and tart. Well done Allagash!
Beer Bloggles Score: 91%

Ommegamg Tripel Perfection

Ommegang- Tripel Perfection: 8.9% abv. If ever the Atlantic Ocean suddenly closed up, Cooperstown NY would be merged with Belgium. At least that's how it seems by the successfully brewed Belgium style triple, an Ommegang Specialty Beer Program graduate, the second from the program finally emerging after three years development. I'll admit, they did an excellent job in all respects, but it still falls short of my favorite triple, the Gouden Carolus Tripel.
Beer Bloggles Score: 90%

Allagash Four Ale

Allagash Four Ale - 10% abv. Brewed with four malts, four sugars, four hop varieties, and fermented guess how many times? FOUR.  Guess what... it's a Belgium style Quadruple. Receiving a bronze in 2007 at the GABF, it's a brilliant quad knock-off. If you can find it, buy it and try it. If you can't, go to the brewery in Portland, ME and get in on the free tasting. Yes, that's a free beer tasting. 
Beer Bloggles Score: 82%

Southern Tier Mokah Stout

Southern Tier Mokah - 11.2% abv. Strong seasonal artisan stout brewed with chocolate and coffee. This is a real sweet treat. It's no daily drinker and you certainly won't want to slam down a few of them over horse shoes, or bring a cooler full to a NASCAR race. As with the other Southern Tier brews I've tried, it's remarkably well crafted and enjoyable, even when the style of beer isn't your type. Impressive. Try it.
Beer Bloggles Score: 89%

Chimay Grande Réserve

Chimay Grande Réserve - Blue Label. 9% abv. Perhaps the most common and highly successful brew from any of the seven Trappist breweries. Although not my favorite brew among the Trappists, it is delightful. Please pour it into a chalice and close your eyes for at least the first sip. Chimay also makes 4 kinds of cheeses. Anyone ever had any of them?
Beer Bloggles Score: 90%

La Trappe Quadrupel - Trappist Ale

La Trappe Quadrupel - Trappist Ale. 10% Abv. Strongest of La Trappe's brews. Oak aging brings out some wonderful flavor noticeable on the front and back end of each sip. From the first taste to the last, this beer captured my complete attention and quickly vaulted itself all the way to my #2 spot, making a run for the lead.This is a bold statement, but I love this beer. The Grand Cru is still safe...for now. Bravo to the Trappist monks at Koningshoeven!
Beer Bloggles Score: 99%

La Trappe Dubbel - Trappist Ale

La Trappe Dubbel - 7% abv. One of the seven authentic Trappist brewers in the world, from B.V.M. Abbey Koningshoeven. This beer defines a perfect Dubbel and will take you for a ride only a Monk could conjure.  
Beer Bloggles Score: 96%

Sierra Nevada Summerfest

Sierra Nevada Summerfest - 5% abv Pilsner-style lager. Bittersweet, not because of it's flavor but because it was the last summer seasonal in my beer fridge. Remarkable - not really. It may quench your thirst.  I find most pilsners boring, this being no exception.
Beer Bloggles Score: 70%

Southern Tier - Crème Brûlée Imperial Milk Stout

Southern Tier Brewing Co - Crème Brûlée Imperial Milk Stout. 9.6% abv. Summer seasonal from the artisan brewers in Lakewood, NY. Admittedly, this beer doesn't sound appealing at all. However, from the first whiff of it's indulgent aroma it will be etched into memory forever. One glass is enough in a sitting, but it's incredibly well done. Pairs great with conversation.
Beer Bloggles Score: 91%