Tap Room Tunesday & Diggin' the chews, brews & fellowship

EU Jacksonville - November 2012

Good evening! … just a quick note about tonight's Mini-Prowl.

First of all, I had a great meeting with Will Henley, Publisher of EU Jacksonville – more about that and my future involvement later. Be sure to pick up their latest issue where you will see our very own Robert Bergeron on the cover, featuring FLA Productions (George Deacon and Robert Bergeron), Whole Wheat Bread and details for Jax Film Fest!

After that, companion squired me over to Intuition Ale Works (720 King Street – 904.683.7720)  and upon reaching the establishment, I was amazed at how crowded it was for a Tuesday evening! … then, I remembered – it was Tap Room Tunesday and Canary in the Coalmine would start performing at 7:30 pm.

I also remembered that Dig Foods would be present offering their delicious vegan and organic pizza for those interested in trying it. Count me in!

Canary in the Coalmine

Entering the tap room, I was excited to see Lindsay and Staci serving behind the bar. Later, Sam came out from the back and assisted the girls as needed.

Sitting at the bar, we quickly ordered (description per Intuition's website):

Rail Spur Double IPA – (aged in oak bourbon barrels)
Aromas and flavors of tropical fruit, citrus peel and pine needles dominate this brew. Two row malted barley, Belgian Caramunich, and Victory malt were used to create a malt backbone that can handle 40 pounds of seven different hops and two dry hop additions. JBB Notes: WOW! … not normally a fan of bourbon-influenced beer but THIS one was delicious! … just enough hint of the oak bourbon barrel to make it very interesting!

Truck Stop Breakfast Stout
Breakfast stout with pure maple syrup and locally-roasted Lucky Dog coffee.

Intuition Ale Works, Punk Monk Dubbel

Sam brought out a sample of their Punk Monk Dubbel, being tapped tomorrow and described on their website:

Our seasonal Belgian-style dubbel pumpkin beer. We added 80 pounds of pumpkin to the mash and another 20 pounds to the kettle and used specially a formulated pumpkin pie spice blend to add hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and allspice. Aged on vanilla beans for 10 days.

Sam was right when he said it was more “roasty” than last year's – and Lindsay nailed it by saying “Oh, that's stupid! … it's so good!” … I thought companion was going to blow Truck Stop out his nose ...

Right before I went outside and ordered our pizza from Dig Foods (half Pumpkin and Roasted Red Kale and half Sweet Potato Cashew Cream and Olives), companion ordered another beer, Intuition Ale Works Oktoberfest, described on their website:

Dig Foods goodness!

Our seasonal Oktoberfest brew is a golden, medium bodied lager with a balanced noble hop profile.

By this time, our friend Greg Steele came in and we enjoyed listening to him describe his incredible trip up north visiting an impressive list of breweries, including Ommegang and Southern Tier. I was green with envy after hearing all of his exploits!

The pizza was outstanding and Staci informed me Dig Foods would soon be opening a food truck via Kickstart; Both halves of this rather healthy pizza was very satisfying - as was the warm and genuine fellowship we shared with Lindsay, Staci, Sam and Greg. Right before we left, Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom (aka Jax Beer Guy) joined us at the bar to grab a beer and eat some food he had brought in prior to heading home (school night for him and companion).

As we were leaving, we noticed Greg had meandered over to a table and was talking with three women. We went over to bid him farewell and were introduced to Sarah Choi and Jennifer Earnest Corrente of 2 Gutsy Girls.  Check back soon for more information about these two beautiful food bloggers!

My heartfelt thanks to Lindsay, Staci and Sam for their great service and for making us feel welcome every time we visit Intuition Ale Works during Jax Brew Bitch Prowls!

Intuition Ale Works

http://www.intuitionaleworks.com/

https://www.facebook.com/IntuitionAle

Canary in the Coalmine

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Canary-in-the-Coalmine/163619127002053

Dig Foods

https://www.facebook.com/digfoods

2 Gutsy Girls

http://www.2gutsygirls.com/

https://www.facebook.com/2GutsyGirls

EU Jacksonville

http://eujacksonville.com/

https://www.facebook.com/eujax?ref=ts&fref=ts

Highland Brewing Co. 15th Anniversary Auld Asheville Vintage Ale Tapping at Kickbacks Gastropub

Highland Brewing Co. Auld Asheville Vintage Ale

Fæder ure þu þe eart on heofonum
Si þin nama gehalgod
to becume þin rice
gewurþe ðin willa
on eorðan swa swa on heofonum.
urne gedæghwamlican hlaf syle us todæg
and forgyf us ure gyltas
swa swa we forgyfað urum gyltendum
and ne gelæd þu us on costnunge
ac alys us of yfele soþlice

Yes, I know you now are thinking the Jax Brew Bitch has finally had one too many pints – or that maybe I didn't notice one of my cats step across my keyboard right before I uploaded this blog post.

But what appears above is not the ramblings of an inebriated mind or the cat-astrophic result of migrating felines, it is actually some of the beginning verses of the Lord's Prayer – in Old English, or rather, Olde English.

Amazing how little this early language resembles our modern English!

I had this in mind as companion and I galloped our motorized steed over to Kickbacks Gastropub (910 King Street – 904.388.9551) to try some of the Highland Brewing Company's Auld Asheville Vintage Ale – an Old English-style ale - just tapped prior to our visit at 2:00 pm on Monday (June 25). It was my understanding Kirsten Oldham Kelley of Highland Brewing Company would be present to answer any questions during this spotlight on this very unique brew – one bearing little resemblance to other modern ales.

This ale is special because Highland brewed this for their 15^th Anniversary in 2009 and released it as a seasonal in December of that year. So, the Kickbacks Gastropub offering of this ale has been aging since 2009. Egads! … there was no way this wifman was going to miss out on nectar such as this!

Kickbacks Ale Angel, Jill

Entering Kickbacks, we encountered one of my Ale Angels, Jill serving as bartender for the day – a change from her long tenure there in working the night shift – a swap she certainly seems to enjoy!

Once we selected our seats at the bar, owner Steve Flores appeared and graciously greeted us. Steve always makes us feel so welcome and his dedication to his staff and customers establishes him as an effective role model for the young, lean and hungry entrepreneurs “biting at the bit” to get started one day. Confirming we were there for the Highland Brewing Auld Asheville, Steve texted Kirsten and learned she would be there at Kickbacks a little later that afternoon. Darn the luck! … we'd have to stick around!

Now this is how to do a Monday!

We ordered two of the Auld Asheville Vintage Ales, served in 6 oz. pours for $3.95 each – this ale is delicious! …. at 9.5% ABV, it can sneak up on you, so it's best to order two so that you can keep an eye on one while you drink the other. I was excited to note we had obtained the first two glasses of that tapping! … WooHoo! … the early Jax Brew Bitch captured the Brew! ...

Brendan, who we met in early Jax Brew Bitch days, is now with Champion Brands Team Hopheads and had entered Kickbacks in search of the Auld Asheville brew, as well. It was great seeing him and we discussed his association with Champion Brands and recent (CASK) activities.

Kashmir IPA & Auld Asheville Vintage Ale
on tap at Kickbacks Gastropub

Kirsten arrived with an entourage and after finding tables, came over to say hello to all of us and spoke of her duties within her current area of responsibility which includes the states of Florida, Alabama and Georgia! … Kirsten is an amazing woman holding a significant spot in the southeastern U.S. beer industry. She is obviously very effective and talented to have such a massive area to cover. While I was speaking with her, Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom arrived with the business cards for his new additional nom-de-plume, the Jax Beer Guy.

It was fun having a Monday-afternoon beer event of sorts and we all enjoyed talking about our appreciation for the Highland Brewing Company beers currently available at Kickbacks. Kirsten excused herself after awhile to return to her group.

On Highland’s website back in that 2009 Anniversary year, they described the Auld Asheville:

Highland Brewing Co. Auld Asheville Vintage Ale

“Auld Asheville Vintage Ale” - the name pays homage to the Scots Irish heritage of Highland’s mountain home. It is a style made famous by British brewers with their holiday offerings of old ales.

Auld Asheville Vintage Ale is a high gravity ale in the style of “Old Ales” or ‘English Strong” ales which are traditionally released just prior to the holidays. Contributing to the beer’s complexity is the use of three different yeast strains, two of which were imported from England. Because of the hopping levels, alcohol content, and the completeness of its attenuation with time in the tanks, it was noted “the product should cellar incredibly well and increase in complexity for at least the next year.”

Its taste is described as “having a bold profile from fine British Malts, woodsy and estery aromas from traditional British Ale yeast, and bittering from Styrian Bobek hops. The addition of Sterling hops provides a hint of spiciness in the nose.”

Dedicated to providing meaningful reviews, I decided to have another one – just to be sure I had a full appreciation for this ale, of course …

Then, I considered the other Highland Brewing Company's brews on tap – the Kashmir IPA and Razor Wit Belgian Wheat described on Highland's website:

Highland Brewing Company Kashmir IPA

A full-bodied India Pale Ale. This beer is golden in color with a moderate malty character with full hop flavor true to the classic ale that has traveled on sailing ships from England to India. Bold and brazen.

This is Highland’s version of the classic British beer which was designed to survive the long journeys from England to India on sailing ships. The higher alcohol content and much higher hop level provided the longevity necessary for the casks to arrive in India in a most drinkable condition. It is very often serious beer drinkers’ favorite style. Being “Just a wee bit different” we chose Kashmir, a controversial section of the Indian subcontinent in the north and matched it with a Madras inspired plaid from the south. Note: 6% ABV & 60 IBUs

Highland Brewing Company Razor Wit Belgian Wheat

Highland Brewing Co. Razor Wit Belgian Wheat

This Belgian-style Wit, or “white” ale, is an unfiltered wheat beer brewed with traditional ingredients and a Highland twist. Wits are conventionally brewed with noble hops, pale malt, unmalted wheat, orange peel, and coriander. We have made this beer our own by adding other unique spices to create complex aromatics, a refreshing taste, and a crisp finish. Light in color with a smooth body, Razor Wit is perfect for hot summer days and sultry summer nights. Note: 4.5% ABV & 25 IBU

Since I had recently had the Kashmir IPA, we ordered a Razor Wit to share. This was quite a contrast to the Auld Asheville but very flavorful – nice and spicy!

Only because I wanted to establish an ironclad perception of the Auld Asheville, companion and I shared one more. See how unselfishly I go the extra mile?

Kirsten re-appeared and cordially invited us, Brendan and Marc over to sit with them.

The fellowship was so enjoyable and I appreciated how Kirsten had invited us over and made the introductions. Her group had invaded and taken over two large tables under and near the draft beer list board  - and that area got quite busy with substantial amounts of food and beer making its way into “Kirsten's Corner”.

The aroma of the food made me hungry, so I suggested to companion we share the Jake 'N Bake pasta dinner described on Kickbacks Gastropub's menu:

Kickbacks Jake 'N Bake 

“Penne, chicken, shrimp, tomatoes, broccoli, cajun alfredo sauce and cheddar jack cheese, in a casserole-like amalgam”

Huge and delicious, served with your choice of a House or Caesar salad, this meal is a great value at $13.79. Plenty enough for me and companion to split and still have some to take home for later!

Marc said goodbye to the group and we stayed a little longer, enjoying discussions with Kirsten and her friends. All too soon, we had to start making our way home since it was a “school night” …

I bid ábéodan to Kirsten and were wonderful family and friends, looking forward to hopefully seeing them soon again in the future.

Jill as bartender and Mike as table server did a terrific job – sincere thanks to them for their consistent spectacular customer service!

The beautiful Kirsten ldham Kelley and JBB

My heartfelt appreciation to Kirsten Oldham Kelley of Highland Brewing Company and Steve Flores and the rest of his crew at Kickbacks Gastropub for a very enjoyable Monday-afternoon Jax Brew Bitch experience!

To those who may be reading, thank you again for doing so – and until I see you on future Prowls - “God þē mid sīe” ...

To view more photos from Kickbacks Gastropub and Highland Brewing Company, visit the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.324533604298922.76309.181100418642242&type=1&ref=notif&notif_t=like

Highland Brewing Company

http://www.highlandbrewing.com/

Kickbacks Gastropub

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

What does craft beer mean to you?

This is Day 7 of the National Craft Beer Week and having such a designation prompts one to ask:

“What does craft beer mean to me?”

This question ties the craft beer enthusiasts throughout the country together with a common thread. Whether prominently displayed in writing before you (as at the Craft & Import Beer Festival last night above interviewer Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom) or nestled quietly in your subconscious, the inquiry causes the craft beer consumer to take stock of his or her perception of the value which craft beer brings to their “personal table”. Note that one's level of involvement in “the industry” does not set any parameters in the basis for the question. We're talking beer-in-your-hand base perceptions as a consumer – forget the fact you might make your living by making, delivering, marketing or selling the product.

I considered it a “thoughty” question when I saw it emblazoned above Marc and it kept popping up in my mind as I “worked” the exciting event for blogging purposes. Upon further introspection, I have settled upon a few things which “craft beer” means to me.

It has opened a whole new adventure for me of course - writing about craft beer, its purveyors and the whole experience itself. I am firmly convinced the perceptions formed about bars and restaurants are forged the morning after – when you have had time to reflect on the “total value” of the whole experience. If I am indeed correct, this bodes well for the future of craft beer here in the Greater Jacksonville area.

Currently in and around Jacksonville, “Craft Beer” is offered at establishments already making the effort to provide a better quality beverage option and improved experience for their customers. Naturally, we Jacksonvillians want all of our purveyors to be so motivated and with our combined efforts, more and more will “see the light” and strive to improve their selections, their service and quality. That's why I go on the prowl … self-indulgently, of course – to highlight those places whose ownership and management are truly focused on their customers – and to Bitch Slap those who aren't.

Do we here in Jacksonville want to be seriously in the running one day for Beer City, USA? … then, we have to get it ALL right. We, as consumers, need to support ($) the local breweries, bars and restaurants AND their staff. Owners need to assure themselves they are soliciting and using feedback obtained from their customers regarding what they would like to see on the food and beer menus, what went well with their visit – or what made it a debacle.

The majority of our purveyors must “buy in” - to ACT upon the fact that the purpose of their business is to CREATE and KEEP their customers - and they must do ALL those things which make people WANT to do business with them. Common sense type stuff, huh? … then why are there still so many who don't keep that axiom in the forefront of their minds? … I say the good news is that it is a management style which can be mimicked and learned - old dogs can indeed learn some new tricks. No resting on laurels is allowed though – there are some lean and hungry young entrepreneurs out there – just waiting for their chance.

So, what else does “craft beer” mean to me?

“Beer” was always the mass-produced beverages when I was younger. As one of a group of fellow high-schoolers, sneaking away to the woods to consume whatever quantity one in the group had been able to secret away from their father's cache. I look back now and I have realized I was only drinking that beer for three reasons:

1)     there wasn't anything else, to speak of, available in Louisiana at the time;

2)     I didn't know any better any way;

3)     it was being offered to me by that cute boy I was interested in.

I went through the days, as many young adults, of hard liquor and though wild and exciting, it takes a toll on you. Craft beer is something I can sit and enjoy while being with friends - not drinking "for effect" - but drinking "for fellowship". Big difference!

"Crying in your beer" is a thing of the past - taprooms are happy places - as more and more bars decide to offer more craft beer, the stereotypical bars - where people go to drown their sorrows - will transform into places where happy people go to meet - and where lonely people can go to meet someone new in an upbeat environment.

Craft beer has also brought me (and companion) wonderful new friends from all walks of life. Thinking back to just a year ago, we had been in Jacksonville about a year and wondered how we were going to get out and develop a new circle of friends.

I had just started working out at the gym and we decided one evening to drop by Kickbacks where a co-worker of companion's had taken us one time before.

John was our server and he was quite displeased when I asked for an “Ultra”  - or something similar in calories. Companion made John a little happier by going with his suggestion – a porter or stout of some type. After I took a sip of companion's beer, I was hooked! … I then told John to select one for me – and the Jax Brew Bitch was born. Beginning with that experience, we have gained so many friends and interesting acquaintances.

Finally, “craft beer” has provided me with a mission. What I want to do is instill the motivation to those who have not tried craft beer to give it a whirl – my bet is that with all the styles out there, they will find one they will naturally gravitate toward.

I hope their experience will then become their passion  - and that the relationships they now have will be refreshed with exciting craft beer related activities - and that the new friendships they forge will be every bit as   endearing and gratifying as the ones WE have built, self-indulgently, enjoying “craft beer” via the Jax Brew Bitch.

To those who happen to be reading, I sincerely thank you for taking the time out of your day to do so. It means a great deal to me – and I look forward to seeing you – and meeting you – and getting to know you - on future Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.

http://www.craftbeer.com/pages/news-and-events/american-craft-beer-week

Tap's Blue Moon Tasting, round 2 ...

TeamHopHeads David Rigdon had mentioned during the Blue Moon tasting at Taps Bar & Grill in Fleming Island on Monday, March 5 that there would be another one at Taps in St. Johns the following Monday, March 12.

I hadn't figured I would go since companion was out of town, but Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom and Kristi kindly offered to tote me down there for the tasting.

It was my first visit to this establishment and I noticed it was noticeably smaller than the one in Fleming Island and had fewer taps – I also did not notice any tables equipped with the table-top taps. However, the place was very nice and the service was quite friendly and professional.

I had planned to order Blue Moon's Dark Chocolate Bacon Porter which I had voted as my favorite the previous week.  Blue Moon describes this nectar: “This deep-mahogany colored ale is brewed with hickory-smoked bacon and dark chocolate for a slightly sweet yet savory taste.” … most definite yummers …

Mile Marker 82 Islamorada IPA

However, I noticed they had Mile Marker Brewery's Mile Marker 82 Islamorada IPA on tap that evening! … WooHoo! … as close as I have found Mile Marker's brews to my house! … of course, I ordered that and a bowl of Taps's delicious chili.

 Mile Marker describes their Mile Marker 82 Islamorada IPA: “ Featuring Centennial & Sterling hops, Mile Marker 82 has lots of hop flavor and aroma but is easy on the bitterness. An IPA perfectly suited for Florida weather. Offers floral and citrus notes. Perfect for the first-time IPA'er or seasoned connoisseur.”

Although not as busy as the Fleming Island location was the previous Monday evening, Taps in St. Johns is a great place to visit – especially if you are in that neck of the woods.

Thanks to TeamHopHeads and Taps in St. Johns for a wonderful experience and to Marc and Kristi for the ride!

                                                                                          

http://www.tapsbarandgrill.com/

http://www.milemarkerbrewing.com/

To view more pics, visit the link below ...

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.260299740722309.63378.181100418642242&type=3

Procrastination is what I do best but this is a biggie ...

Since early January, out-of-town family health issues, a death in the family, the birth of my second niece and traveling with companion during his work-related trips made it difficult to focus as the Jax Brew Bitch. On top of that companion and I have both had a bout with the usual cold/flu symptoms.

However, now being “back in the saddle” and the “malts and hops neuron/synapse actuators” hummin' , I have been able to reflect a bit over the past few weeks about the times we DID get to enjoy some good chews and brews during our travels and here at home with our good friends.

JAN 22 thru FEB 04

Gulfport trip

Salvo's Seafood in Belle Chase, Louisiana – oysters, crawfish, catfish and crabs – specials during the week!

http://www.salvosseafood.com/

Darwell's Cafe in Long Beach, Mississippi – of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives fame – Crawfish Etoufee at lunch – unique eclectic atmosphere – good food but my recipe is still the best ;)

http://www.darwellscafe.com/

The Shed BBQ in Gulfport, Mississippi - Pulled Pork Plate with G-Maw’s Famous Beans and Momma Mia’s Mac Salad! … yummers! ,,, Happy Hour 2-for-1 Drafts – I had Lazy Magnolia Brewing Company's Southern Pecan Nut Brown Ale! … Woo-Hoo! … 2-for-1 ! …

Per Lazy Magnolia's website:

“Southern Pecan Nut Brown Ale is the first beer in the world, to our knowledge, made with whole roasted pecans. The pecans are used just like grain and provide a nutty characteristic and a delightful depth to the flavor profile. This beer is very lightly hopped to allow the malty, caramel, and nutty flavors shine through. The color is dark mahogany. Southern Pecan won a Bronze Medal in the 2006 World Beer Cup in the Specialty Beer category.”

http://theshedbbq.com/

http://www.lazymagnolia.com/ourbeer.php

FEB 05 thru MAR 01

Which brings me current up to last night, March 2! … we are blessed with good friends and fellowship with them in person and via text messages helped get us through the stressful times over the past couple of months.

So, about last night … we had originally planned to meet Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom at European Street for Happy Hour and a quick bite so that we could also meet his new friend, Kristi. What an amazing woman! … and so cute! I love her and she’s a new BFF.

However, Debbie contacted us and suggested we meet her at Riverside Liquors for a wine tasting at 5:30 pm. Upon arrival, we noticed Marc and Kristi were already there and we were soon joined by Vince, Debbie and some more of her friends.

It was my first visit to Riverside Liquors – and I was very impressed.

We had passed this establishment on foot and in vehicle many times since moving to Jacksonville, but never ventured inside. From the exterior, one unfamiliar with the history of this business would never know it possesses a very nice bar at the rear. Scott was our bartender for the evening and he was simply amazing – providing prompt and professional service with a smile to an impressively growing crowd.

I treated myself by sampling some of the flavorful wine being offered in the tasting but did not want to over-do since I knew I would be enjoying some brews, somewhere later. Companion indicated he was fully appreciating the Bells Two Hearted Ale he had requested from Scott … and then even better news: $3.50 for the glass poured from the bottle – and most all of their craft beers are available for that same price! …. WooHoo! … almost like drinking at home – but in a social setting! … of course, I had to have one of my own.

Bell's Brewery indicates the Two Hearted Ale:  is defined by its intense hop aroma and malt balance. Hopped exclusively with the Centennial hop varietal from the Pacific Northwest, massive additions in the kettle and again in the fermenter lend their characteristic grapefruit and pine resin aromas. A significant malt body balances this hop presence; together with the signature fruity aromas of Bell's house yeast, this leads to a remarkably drinkable American-style India Pale Ale.  Note: 7.0% ABV

We were all having so much fun and not wanting to leave, so companion and I decided to split one more and I asked him to surprise me – and a wonderful surprise it was! …

Companion selected Sierra Nevada's Bigfoot Barleywine Style Ale

Our award-winning barleywine boasts a dense, fruity bouquet, an intense flavor palate and a deep reddish-brown color. Its big maltiness is superbly balanced by a wonderfully bittersweet hoppiness.

Notes:

ABV: 9.6% !!!       IBU: 90

A wonderful venue for enjoying competitively-priced brews, we plan on making Riverside Liquors a regular stop on future Jax brew Bitch prowls!

http://riversideliquors.biz/

http://bellsbeer.com/brands/#Year_Round-1

http://www.sierranevada.com/beers/bigfoot.html

A chant began at our end of the bar dealing with sustenance which made me realize how hungry I was … so, the group splintered – the one of which we were members headed for Domo Crepes around the corner at 813 Lomax Street. The other sliver of our group had decided to eat at nearby Hovan.

Companion and I had enjoyed a sweet crepe on an earlier evening out at Domo Crepes, so I was looking forward to trying one of their “Savory Crepes”. I ordered the “Firecracker Chicken Crepe” - $8.49 and companion selected the “Firecracker Steak Crepe” - $8.99 and we split a bottled Corona with lime.

BOTH of the crepes were delicious! … while enjoying mine, I tasted companion's Firecracker Chicken crepe and I will be ordering that one next time.

Service was prompt and friendly – another thing which impressed me was their willingness to have other patrons come in after the posted closing time. Of course, this makes sense in running a business such as Domo Crepes, but aren't you amazed at how many establishments wave customers off who approach their doors right at closing time?

For the others at the table (Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom, Kristi, Vince and Debbie), this was their first visit to this establishment and apparently all were pleased. Thanks to Domo Crepes for a wonderful Jax Brew Bitch experience!

http://www.domocrepesetc.com/

We joined the rest of the group over at Hovan and enjoyed some great fellowship. We decided to share a hookah, a couple of Heinekens and a piece of baklava. It was splendid weather and we stayed outside until closing time. Great, friendly service and pleasant atmosphere indeed added to this wonderful evening. Thanks to   Hovan for their superior customer service!

http://www.hovan5points.com/

A suggestion was made to make our way over to Bold City Brewery so we saddled up the Jeep and met Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom, Kristi and Vince for a quick beverage before last call. Companion and I opted for their 1901 Red Ale, one of our favorites.

Bold City describes the 1901 Red Ale: “This is not your standard Red Ale. This is a very ‘malty’, ‘roasty’ and complex Red Ale. The roasted flavor comes from the high presence of roasted barley. With a very minimal
but high alpha hop addition, this Red Ale has become a favorite among patrons.“

Thank you to Bold City Brewery for always being a place to enjoy good brews and share some quality time with friends!

http://www.boldcitybrewery.com/index.php

Sadly, last call was sounded, motivating us to finish the evening – at Kickbacks Gastropub. The Jeep is much like Herbie from the old Disney movies when it hears we are heading there – and seems to always find a parking place in a designated parking spot.

Companion selected the Great Divide Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout and I opted for Ballast Point's Big Eye IPA .

Already one of our fav's, Great Divide Brewing's Oak Aged Yeti consistently delivers the eye-opening characteristics we enjoy. Great Divide's own description states this Oak Aged Imperial Stout:

“is Yeti Imperial Stout’s sophisticated sibling. They may be from the same clan, but they have entirely different personalities. Oak aging gives a subtle vanilla character, rounding out Yeti’s intense roastiness and huge hoppy nature. Who says you can’t tame a Yeti?”  Note: 9.5% ABV!!!

Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom was suggesting we try the Ballast Point Big Eye IPA, so I went along with his recommendation. So glad I did! … I've come a long way in my appreciation of hoppy IPAs and this one was outstanding!

Ballast Point Brewing Company uses the following description:

“If you have fallen for the IPA style like we have, Big Eye will be a welcome addition to your repertoire.  You’ll revel in Big Eye’s bitter, hoppy flavor thanks to the American Columbus and Centennial hops that are used to flavor and dry hop our flagship IPA.

We thank our hops every day that the English loved their bitters—or else the IPA style may not have been born to help the beer survive the journey from Cape Hope to India back in the 18th century.”

Notes: 7.0% ABV    IBU: 75

Seeing everyone around us eating, we gave in and ordered some basic food available at Kickbacks – mac 'n cheese and Ramen Noodles. Companion, of course, HAD to request the bacon on top of the mac 'n cheese – and yes, I had a few bites – so decadent for such a basic food item! … the Ramen was everything I remembered from my youth – and it just what I needed at that time of night!

Thank you to Steve and his crew at Kickbacks Gastropub for providing such a fitting end to an excellent Jax Brew Bitch evening!

http://greatdivide.com/

http://ballastpoint.com/

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

Starting out the Jax Brew Bitch New Year! Ring-a-ding-ding!

The holidays are never long enough, are they? …

On Monday Jan 2, late in the afternoon, I received a text from our friend Vince, asking if anyone was up to one last holiday Happy Hour … silly man … you're askin' the Jax Brew Bitch that question?

Although already comfortably clad in our “skivvies”, we neither wanted to miss out – or be labeled “slackers” - so we got dressed and met him and our friends, Teresa and Marco at European Street over in San Marco.

Companion and I split a Reuben Special which is smoked pastrami and corned beef, melted Swiss cheese with sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing – served hot on our choice of bread (sourdough) – mountain of chips. Yummers ….

We shared our Happy Hour  2-for-1 large glasses of Bold City Dukes Cold Nose Brown Ale and Lagunitas IPA.

Service was friendly and thorough but could have been a little more proactive. Overall, I was pleased with the waiter and the ambiance of the interior.

Second day of the new year … and starting it off well with back-to-back days of fine fellowship and food!

I hope each of you had a safe, memorable and blessed Christmas and New Years!

Thank you European Street for your amazing Happy Hour! … I'll definitely be back on future prowls ...

http://www.europeanstreet.com

http://www.boldcitybrewery.com

http://www.lagunitas.com

Motivated to invade one more establishment prior to the Jeep turning back into a pumpkin at midnight, I sent a text to Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom and he responded with a directive to meet at Kickbacks Gastropub. Setting the Jeep on auto-pilot, we found ourselves, once again, at a table inside Kickbacks.

Companion and I shared:

·         Lost Coast Brewery Winterbraun Brown Ale

·         Bell's Brewery Java Stout

·         Southern Tier Brewing Company Phin & Matt's Extraordinary Ale

WOW !!!  … all three were amazingly tasty …

Phin & Matt's is an eye-opening American style pale ale brewed with whole hops and malted barley. The taste was not affected (at least negatively) by the previous Java Stout, which of course had that strong coffee influence but with an initial suggestion of sweet chocolate followed up with a mild bitter finish.

The Winterbraun brown was not too surprising but very good and was it a wisp of nutmeg I held in my nostrils during the first sip? … seemed like it with a far-off note of licorice … definitely one I would like to have around the house!

Although I had warded off the freakin' Flying Fried Fairy after European Street, the good brews had to have something to accompany them, so we opted for an order of the Roasted Shrimp Dip – something I had not tried before. GLAD I DID!

The table got quiet all of a sudden as we all dug into this thick delicious dip with the accompanying multi-colored chips. So good … I think I will ask next time if I can substitute their bread for the chips – if so, this dish may replace the French Mushroom Dip as my fav. Get out today and go get some! … I'll be your hero.

The place was extremely busy but service was good – I was able to see Adrian and Kat quickly as they hustled through the establishment. Actually, it seems we were waited upon by a host of folks - all were friendly – and maybe a little tired - from all the holidays.

Nice beer, great friends and a wonderful fitting end to a Jax Brew Bitch holiday season!

Thank you to Steve and the crew at Kickbacks for helping us start 2012 so pleasantly!

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

http://www.lostcoast.com

http://www.bellsbeer.com

http://southerntierbrewing.com/index1.html

Sushi gave me an Intuition I would be CUT OFF at Kickbacks

Knowing Saturday evening (Dec 10) was probably going to end up being an “all-nighter” with all the stops we planned to make, I made sure I was rested, “aspirined” and famished when we picked up our friend Tina from her house and met Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom at Koja Sushi located at The Landing in downtown Jacksonville.

What a beautiful view of the river! … and there was a Christmas show being presented at The Landing performed by a talented youth group from St. Augustine – they were awesome. Overall, a very pleasant atmosphere during a very happy time of the year!

Wanting to pace myself for a marathon brews and chews outing, companion and I shared a Kirin Ichiban with our meal which consisted of (numbers per Koja's menu):

15. Fried Shrimp Roll ($ 4.95)

17. Spicy Tuna Roll ($ 4.95)

18. Spicy Salmon Roll ($ 3.95)

19. Yellowtail Roll ($ 4.95)

27. Eel Roll ($ 3.95)

28. Smoked Salmon Roll ($ 3.95)

Now, the basics I consider when judging sushi are:

A. Is the fish fresh or taste like yesterday's leftover bait?

B. Is it well-prepared or look like something hastily slapped-together?

C. Is the flavor something notable and unique? - due to the ingredients and their ratio to the whole

All of our selections passed both A and B. The Fried Shrimp Roll was okay but it tasted a little like the oil had not been changed recently and the greasy aftertaste was a little *ugh*. Understanding it WAS shrimp and fried at that, I've still had this type of roll better elsewhere.

The rest of the items were good but nothing really “knocked my socks off”. However, if I am in the area of The Landing and have a hankering for sushi, I would certainly go there again.

Service was very attentive and we appreciated our server's genuine smile and gracious manner. I wish I had noted his name ...

I first visited The Landing when companion and I traveled from our home in the U.S. Virgin Islands to Jacksonville for a business trip in 1995  – and the place was somewhat “happening” at that time – busy establishments and beaucoup shoppers – I could sense the energy.

Years later, when we would travel to Jax from our home near Orlando, we noticed sadly how the energy had waned. I hope it can be re-energized and I applaud those involved for their continuing efforts at The Landing, including Koja Sushi.

http://www.kojasushijax.com/

http://www.jacksonvillelanding.com/

Having dinner dealt with, it was on to more brew-related pursuits! ... our next stop was the IPA fest at Intuition Ale Works.

WOW! … the place was hoppin' – pun intended - and we could not even nudge our way in to the Tap Room – so, we found some available seats at a table in the also-crowded warehouse, from which we beheld the spectacle.

Our good friends, Teresa and Marco met us all there and they brought handsome nephew Ty and beautiful daughter-in-law Christina for their first visit to Intuition. Later, their friend Vince joined us, as well – he's hilarious!

Companion and I decided to maximize our exposure to the IPAs and shared (descriptions per Intuition's website):

• The Heel – Black Centennial IPA. Roasty malt notes complement the Centennial hop citrus notes.
• Cascade – Slightly spicy with strong citrus/grapefruit peel aroma.
• Anniversary IPA - Brewed and dry-hopped with Amarillo and Simcoe hops.

The Heel was very dark and was absolutely perfect for the cooler evening. Although I lean toward the darker brews, I am developing a taste for the lighter selections, as well – so I was quite proud of myself when I truly enjoyed the Cascade!

Based upon an earlier visit to Intuition, I had already become a fan of the Anniversary IPA, so a tongue-out “IN YOUR FACE!!!” to Ian (http://broopa.com/ ) -  I had MORE of the Anniversary IPA during your extended absence … less of the pie for you, bucko … by the way, did I mention how GOOD it was? … I'm so evil ... (see earlier blog post)

Congratulations to Intuition Ale Works for what must have been a successful IPA Fest! … thanks to Robin for working so tirelessly and graciously behind the bar in the warehouse! … that's one of the reasons she is one of my treasured Ale Angels! …

http://www.intuitionaleworks.com/

The ANSWER is: “Two spilled beers and a broken glass”

The QUESTION is: “How can you tell the Jax Brew Bitch had a great time at the bar?”

The last stop during our night of decadence was Kickbacks Gastropub and this was going to be Tina's first time inside the place. I think we may have scared her away for good ...

I don't think companion's rear had hit the chair at the high-top table before he had ordered Kickbacks Gastropub's extremely popular French Mushroom Spread and Fish & Chips for our group to share. The moans arising from our table surely distracted fellow-patrons, but we munched on.

Other friends happened by, including Teresa's and Marco's friend Vince we had met earlier at Intuition Ale Works. We were also pleased when Brewer Andrew Cattell of Intuition Ale Works pulled up a chair and visited with us for awhile.

The evening was going to end well, I just knew it – my “Suds Sensei”, John was our server – and between him and Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom, Tina had NO chance to slowly feel her way into the “World of Beercraft” - she was thrust in explosively!

I know our group ended up sharing / tasting a number of brews that evening including:

• Terrapin Beer Company's Wake 'N' Bake (most heavenly “yummers”)
• Sierra Nevada Brewing Company's Snowed In Stout
• Corsendonk Christmas Ale
• Delirium Noël
• Cigar City Warmer Winter Winter Warmer Ale

At some point during enjoying the brews noted above, a glass of Southern Tier's Crème Brulee was tragically spilled upon the table … *respectful moment of silence* … and later, another delightful brew was spilled with an accompanying broken glass. At that point, Tina declared me and Springfield Brew Crew Marc Wisdom as “CUT OFF!” (I believe THIS was about the time she began fearing for her personal well-being). Others in my group maintain I had something to do with the Crème Brulee spill-occurrence, but I doubt their veracity. However, BOTH events resulted in my most trusted Ale Angel, Kat, swooping in with experienced skill to deftly rid our table of the mishandled nectar and dangerous shards – performing not too much unlike “The Executioner” during “Amateur Nights at the Apollo Theater” - a man with a broom who would sweep performers off the stage if the highly vocal and opinionated audiences began to call for their removal . Thank you, Kat! - we appreciate your kindhearted and understanding attitude!

A special thank you to John and Kat and the kitchen staff st Kickbacks Gastropub for a wonderful and memorable experience for our friend Tina and a fitting end to a perfect Jax Brew Bitch evening! … sorry about the glass … Marc's fault …

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

http://terrapinbeer.com/

http://www.sierranevada.com/

http://www.corsendonk.com

http://www.delirium.be/bier/1/0/red.html

http://www.cigarcitybrewing.com/

http://southerntierbrewing.com/index1.html