An evening with Terrapin Beer Co.'s John Cochran & Spike Buckowski

at Kickbacks Gastropub

Look up “serendipity” in your Funk & Wagnalls – you'll find one meaning is “pleasant surprise” …

Serendipity reared its beautiful head a couple of weeks ago when David Rigdon of Champion Brands and Team Hopheads invited me to be a part of a group to sit with Terrapin Beer Company's owners and co-founders Brian "Spike" Buckowski (Brewmaster) and John Cochran (President) last Friday (Oct 26). Spike and John were traveling into Jacksonville that day to attend the following day's Florida-Georgia game and had agreed to do a few promotional events Friday evening.

Let me explain my excitement. I have spoken often of my initial foray into craft beer about a year ago when John Woodcock (then, of Kickbacks Gastropub) shamed me into letting him select something for me after I grossed him out by ordering (and drinking) an Ultra or something similar in calories.

with Spike Buckowski FL/GA TapTakeover

As I took baby-steps into this new exciting world of delicious and creatively developed brews, I seldom took notice of the brewery – I was concentrating on the name of the beer itself – so I could remember it the next time. Brewery names were not significant to me until I started dedicating significant effort to my blog in March of this year.

One of my earliest taste-bud explosive experiences was with Wake-N-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Stout. I'm sure I was told Terrapin Beer Company brewed this magnificent nectar but I was too focused on remembering “Wake-N-Bake” for that factoid to lodge in my memory.

Although I am now very aware of Terrapin Beer Company and the array of selections they offer, Wake-N-Bake still holds a position as one of my most favorites – and companion's.

So, David's invitation to speak with the honchos of the brewery thrilled me, of course – and I wanted to make sure my questions for them would be pithy, current and pertinent – important enough to me to even type them out.

Steve Flores and Spike Buckowski  - Kickbacks Gastropub

The meeting took place at Kickbacks Gastropub where owner Steve Flores had prepared the area for this get-together. As you are probably aware, Steve has collaborated with Terrapin in the past – notably, on the Spiked Wake-N-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Stout.

As background, a minority stake in the ownership of Terrapin Beer Company has recently been acquired by Tenth & Blake, the craft beer arm of MillerCoors. There was enough concern about this that Terrapin's website devoted their FAQ page to the buy-in by Tenth & Blake.

http://terrapinbeer.com/brewery/faq/

The concerns raised by Tenth & Blake having a seat at the Athens, Georgia “toropean” brewer's table were conceived by the underlying perceptions taking the verbal form of two questions:

1)     Did Spike and John really sell-out? … to now sail aimlessly and wealthily through the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean  … or to develop a hop farm in Viana do Castilo; or,

2)     Was Terrapin in dire financial straits?

At the outset, let me say the answer to 2) above is a resounding NO – the financial picture at Terrapin was and is fine – good and healthy.

The answer to 1) was more problematic for me – was the coverage of the Tenth & Blake buy-in on Terrapin's FAQ page merely “corporate-speak”? … you know, that never fear – “everything-is-rosy-type” marketing hype?

Why is the answer so important? … realistically, with the MillerCoors understandable focus points on the Environment, Labor and Safety (aka EPA , Teamsters and OSHA), if push comes to shove, will MillerCoors direct a realignment down-ladder as far as policies which would alter how Terrapin conducts business? … what they can brew? … when they can release? … where they can distribute?

The good news, dear fellow Terrapin Beer lovers is that my perception is that the answers provided at this meeting and on the FAQ page are the same and indeed sincere. Terrapin survives as an independent organization to brew and distribute at will – and with the same savvy Spike Buckowski and John Cochran have always shown in the birth and nurturing of their fabulous Terrapin Beer Company – over 10 years ago.

I had other questions for the pair and during the nearly three-hour meeting, John and Spike patiently and generously endured the questions – well, John more so than Spike. Spike was giving me a hard time about my questions – in a good-natured way, though.

2010 Spike & Jerome's Cuvee Délirante 

The whole table was pleased to be offered samples of the Collaboration Ale created by the joint creative efforts of Terrapin Beer Company and BFM (Brasserie Des Franches-Montagnes – based in Switzerland) known as Jérôme &Spike’s 2011 Barley Ryne.  Jérôme is BFM brewmaster Jérôme Rebetez and he traveled to Terrapin's brewery in Athens, Georgia to concoct this brew with Spike.

To provide comparisons in real-time, we were also provided samples of the previous year's Collaboration Ale from these two breweries, Spike & Jérôme’s Cuvée Délirante (Collaboration Ale). For this initial endeavor between the two brewmasters, Spike flew to Switzerland for the pair to work together – tough duty, huh? … makes you wonder what Spike's high school career counselor suggested he consider for a career – probably not anything as fulfilling as traveling the world to create commercially successful beers!

I was reminded of my initial taste of the first Spike & Jérôme’s Collaboration from almost a year ago – my newby taste-buds at that time being shocked at how tart and sour it was to me. Even then though, I could appreciate the fact it was because I was still a rookie in the craft beer world and would probably develop a taste for that type of beer. I did.

After tasting it during the meeting, I was happy to realize I really did enjoy it – but I could never drink a whole tulip of it – so yeasty and sour. Well, heck – who knows? … this time next year I could be drinking a growler of it. We'll see …

The newest collaboration was much smoother with the essence of a woodsy Barley Wine but not quite as heavy as others I enjoy. Note – I could drink A LOT of this one! … surprisingly drinkable, it could sneak up on you.

Florida Georgia Tap Takeover at Northstar Substation

Time passed all too quickly and there were other events John and Spike had agreed to – including ones involving Northstar Substation and Mellow Mushroom – but more about those in a follow-up post.

My heartfelt appreciation to David Rigdon of Champion Brands and Team Hopheads for the invitation to be involved in this very special meeting, to Steve Flores for providing the perfect setting and to Spike Buckowski and John Cochran for their generous gift of the Collaboration Ale and for graciously indulging my list of questions – typed and all.

To view more photos from John and Spike's visit and FL/GA Tap Takeover, please visit the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.369333766485572.89070.181100418642242&type=3

Terrapin Beer Company

http://terrapinbeer.com/

https://www.facebook.com/terrapinbeerco?fref=ts

John Cochran's Blog  – President of Terrapin Beer Company

http://johnatterrapin.wordpress.com/

BFM Website

http://www.brasseriebfm.ch/

Kickbacks Gastropub

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

Doing it old school style with Moon River Pizza and Pinglehead Brewing Company

Large and in charge at Moon River Pizza

Have you ever had your taste buds set for something in particular, then choose a place to dine and THEN realize it's Monday and your selected establishment is closed?

Well, it's happened more than once to me, so that's why I was particularly focused on my research for our culinary adventure options on Monday (June 18).

One intriguing special that evening of which I had learned was the “Old School Special” at Moon River Pizza (1176 Edgewood Avenue South – Murray Hill – 904.389.4442 ). A LARGE one-topping pizza and a pitcher of any beer they have for $20! … any beer??? … like, for instance, “Bold City Dukes Cold Nose Brown Ale?”, I asked hopefully when I called Moon River Pizza to confirm..

Our lovely server, Adrian at Moon River Pizza

Upon learning that Duke's Cold Nose Brown Ale was indeed included in the Special, companion and I were like two drifters, quickly off to see the world - for there's such a lot of world to see – and pizza to eat – and beer to drink!


A short drive later, we were parked right in front of Moon River Pizza and from outward appearances, I expected it to have a dimly lit older pizza-parlor interior – nothing wrong with that, by the way – that is just what I was expecting. Entering, I was amazed at the décor! … upbeat, upscale, eclectic, warm and welcoming, I knew at once this was going to become a regular spot on future Prowls!

We were cheerfully greeted at the counter by lovely Adrian, who took our order and invited us to sit wherever we wished. She noted that since we had arrived early in the evening, the pizza would be out rather quickly.

Of course, we ordered the pitcher of Bold City Duke's Cold Nose Brown Ale described on Bold City's website:

"This is a mild brown ale which is easily drinkable. A slight nuttiness and sweetness are present."

Large Meatball Pizza from Moon River Pizza

For our large one-topping pizza selection, we opted for the Meatball Pizza. Adrian was certainly right in her estimate of our pizza's ETA  - much quicker than expected!

As I mentioned, the “Old School Special” is a large pizza – large as in the “large” of companion's youth – heck, even MY youth – much larger than you get now at the pizza chains. Impressive quality – amazing flavor – and so huge, we had to stop half-way through and decided to take the rest home. This is DEFINITELY a great deal!

Just as we we asking for a to-go box for the half-pizza we still had remaining, my phone indicated an incoming call providing an exciting second stop on this Prowl, so we prepped ourselves to leave noting the crowd had increased significantly. This was a wonderful first experience – great food, service and ambiance. I am certainly going to try other menu items on future Prowls.

Make next Monday a “night out” for you and yours - grab your huckleberry friend, cross on over in style to the Murray Hill area and take advantage of this phenomenal – and delicious - value served up each Monday at Moon River Pizza!

My appreciation to Adrian and the rest of the staff at Moon River Pizza for excellent and friendly service and to the ownership and management of Moon River Pizza for providing a tremendous value on this first stop of that evening's Jax Brew Bitch Prowl!

To view more photos from Moon River Pizza, visit the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.321229884629294.75649.181100418642242&type=3

Moon River Pizza

http://www.moonriverpizza.net/

https://www.facebook.com/moonriverpizza

Bold City Brewery

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

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bold-City-Brewery/54391921191?ref=ts

Keegan from Brewer's Pizza and Pinglehead Brewing
Company, JBB and James

The incoming call had been from James from Champion Brands / Team HopHeads informing me that Pele's Wood Fire was tapping Pinglehead Brewing Company's Pinglehead Imperial Red Ale within the next few minutes and invited me to come over.

Being summoned to the Hawaiian Goddess of Fire is something not to be taken lightly, of course – and fully fueled by our mass consumption of great pizza and a whole pitcher of Bold City Brewery's Dukes Cold Nose Brown Ale, it took us no time to paddle our wa’akaukahi to the front of Pele's Wood Fire (2665 Park Street – 904.232.8545), our second visit there.

Opening the door to Pele's I wondered if we needed to offer a sacrifice to her prior to entering – a little concerning since we had nothing left to show for this Prowl thus far – other than half of the Moon River meatball pizza which I had stealthily stashed away in The Beast for safety. No one, even Pele herself, would venture into the confines of The Beast .

Pinglehead Red Ale

Instantly, I saw James, Keegan and a lovely young woman sitting as a group at the bar. James and Keegan were munching on something from Pele's Wood Fire kitchen which I'm sure was spectacular. They ALMOST even looked up from eating when I walked up to them – though, I didn't blame them – the food they were finishing smelled absolutely fabulous.

Companion and I selected bar stools next to these three and companion soon became occupied inspecting all the various 50 beers Pele's has on tap. Since we were there for the Pinglehead Red Ale, we both opted for that.

Pinglehead Brewing Company's website includes a description of this awesome ale:

“Pours a clear red body with an off-white colored head. Aroma is caramel sweet with floral undertones. Dry-hopping gives subtle floral hop flavors to compliment a smooth caramel malt backbone. A combination of mellow bitterness, candy sweetness and medium body result in a balanced, highly drinkable red ale.”

This is a great beer! … not just saying this to appease Pele's fiery disposition, always prone to aggressively protect her newly tapped beer  – but it is truly a righteous brew!. The Pinglehead Red is NOT a “middle-of-the road” red ale like several of those I have tried – those whose flavor is apparent but very subtle. Pinglehead Red Ale has in-your-face eye-opening flavor and I am very impressed with it.

I am somewhat more critical of red ales since my first  “Out-of-Jax-Craft-Brew Body Experience” occurred in San Diego at the moment I tasted the Red Trolley Red Ale brewed by the Karl Strauss Brewery. I fell in love with Red Trolley  - that's been my favorite for awhile -  and Pinglehead's Red Ale gets as close as any COULD, since I'm sure Red Trolley's No. 1 position in my palate is due in part to it being my first. It is SO special to me that companion carefully wrapped a six-pack in his suitcase for me returning from his last solo trip to San Diego (I've still got two bottles left!)

It's not that I'm overly fascinated with Red Trolley – heavens, no …I mean, all I did was send Red Trolley my phone number, address, e-mail address, a request to meet Red Trolley here in Florida and only a couple of “Thinking-of-You” e-cards … *Dear Diary, I wonder if Red Trolley will ever call me?” …

Seriously, Pinglehead Red Ale is one you MUST try – and you'll be able to find it at several places in the Greater Jacksonville area!

Although several orders of Pele's tremendously popular Tuscan Fries were floating about tempting me with each pass of my nostrils, I held off ordering since I was still stuffed from our earlier meal. Even companion mentioned he was still way too full to consider eating anything.

 With Jamie at Pele's Wood Fire

We were introduced to the lovely young woman sitting with James and Keegan – Jamie is her name and she really knows her beer! … being from the Pacific Northwest, she acquired a taste for craft brews early on. She is a regular at Pele's and it is obvious she is quite the popular girl there! … she is so sweet, funny and fascinating, I am SO glad I got the chance to meet her.

James mentioned the Pinglehead Red Ale was also on tap at Kickbacks Gastropub, just down the street … well, all right, then! … let's not let any tap go untried tonight! … let's get moving!

My sincere appreciation to James with Champion Brands / Team HopHeads for inviting me, to Keegan and Pinglehead Brewing Company for an inspired Red Ale and to the ownership and management at Pele's Wood Fire for making each visit an enjoyable stop on Jax Brew Bitch Prowls.  Mahalo nui loa!

Pele's Wood Fire

http://www.peleswoodfire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/peleswoodfire

Pinglehead Brewing Company

http://www.pinglehead.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Pinglehead

James, Fidel, Steve, JBB and Keegan at
Kickbacks Gastropub for Pinglehead night

Since we were already in the area, it took little time for us to be inside Kickbacks Gastropub (910 King Street – 904.388.9551).

Keegan and James had already staked out a high-top table near the kitchen and companion and I soon had another pint of the amazing Pinglehead Brewing Company's Pinglehead Imperial Red Ale in our hands.

Owner Steve Flores stopped by the table and said hello – notable because he is so busy while in the demolition phase of the structure next door, making way for the soon-to-be expansion! … I can't wait!

It is always a pleasant experience at Kickbacks Gastropub – Steve and his staff are so dedicated to their customers. I really enjoyed our time spent with Keegan and James and the Pinglehead Red Ale, sitting there in our home-away-from-home.

Charming beauties enjoying Pinglehead Red Ale
at Kickbacks Gastropub

Since it WAS a school night and The Beast turns into a horse-apple at midnight, we bid farewell to Steve and his crew, Keegan and James.

Thanks again to James of Champion Brands / Team HopHeads for inviting me, to Keegan for graciously discussing the Red Ale and future plans for Pinglehead Brewing Company and as always, to Steve and the gang at Kickbacks Gastropub – for truly caring about your customers from all walks of life – one reason Kickbacks is a regular stop for me and the perfect place to end that evening's Jax Brew Bitch Prowl.

To view more photos from Pele's Wood Fire and Kickbacks Gastropub for Pinglehead night, visit the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.320928051326144.75597.181100418642242&type=3

Kickbacks Gastropub

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub

Pinglehead Brewing Company

http://www.pinglehead.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Pinglehead

The Beast made it back to its stable at home and I quickly showered and settled into bed to check e-mail, respond to a few and make some notes about the evening. Companion followed suit and was soon next to me and we were discussing the night's events and how much we loved the Pinglehead Brewing Company Pinglehead Imperial Red Ale.

Later, as companion fell asleep, I found myself typing just one more e-card to Red Trolley Red Ale – wishing it well, thanking it for the good times – bemoaning the difficulty of maintaining long-distance beer relationships - and letting it know that I had found another Red Ale, much closer and probably better suited for the Jax Brew Bitch. Reviewing the completed message, I realized I was at a Red Ale crossroads – all I had to do was click “Send” …

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

Stone Brewing tasting at Engine 15, Euro St. Green Room and exploding cheeseburgers

Stone's Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard
and Stone's Russian Imperial Stout

The next evening (Wednesday, March 28),  we were on our way EARLY to Engine 15 for the Stone Brewing Company tasting. Having arrived a little late for the last tasting there, we had arranged our day to make sure we were there right at the start. You know, “The early Brew Bitch captures the stout” and all.

When we arrived, we noticed Dave Rigdon (Champion Brands – Team Hopheads) and James from Team Hopheads already set up and providing samples of Stone's Cali Belique Belgian Style IPA, Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard, Ruination IPA and Russian Imperial Stout.

Stone describes these brews, per their website:

Cali Belique Belgian Style IPA

“When reading the name "Stone Cali-Belgique IPA", "Cali" hints that it is a California-style IPA, and this brew has an undeniable Belgian influence, indicated by the word "Belgique" (which is how Belgium's French-speaking population says the word "Belgian"; the Dutch-speaking Belgians say "België"). We carefully selected a Belgian yeast strain that illuminates a fascinating new aspect of the beer that is otherwise quite simply Stone IPA. The result is both completely new and different, while still being recognizable as a Stone brew—and Stone IPA in particular. Think of it as an otherwise identical twin to Stone IPA that was raised in a Belgian culture. Literally.” - Notes: 6.9% ABV, 77 IBUs

Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard

“This is an aggressive beer. You probably won’t like it. It is quite doubtful that you have the taste or sophistication to be able to appreciate an ale of this quality and depth. We would suggest that you stick to safer and more familiar territory --- maybe something with a multi-million dollar ad campaign aimed at convincing you it’s made in a little brewery, or one that implies that their tasteless fizzy yellow beer will give you more sex appeal. Perhaps you think multi-million dollar ad campaigns make a beer taste better. Perhaps you’re mouthing your words as you read this.

Too many strive towards complacency as a goal. We grow up thinking that the ability to become complacent is the equivalence of success in life. True Arrogant Bastards know that this could not be further from the truth. The real beauty, richness and depth in life can only be found if the journey through life itself is looked upon as a constant chance to learn, live and find life’s passion. Passion threatens the complacent, and fills them with fear. Fear of the new, the deep and the different. We, on the other hand, seek it out. Endlessly, joyously...and aggressively. To this end we bring you the “OAKED Arrogant Bastard Ale.” Another reward for those seeking new sources of passion, and another point of dissension for those who are not.”  - Notes: 7.2% ABV

Stone Imperial Russian Stout

“Brewed in the authentic historical style of an Imperial Russian Stout, this beer is massive. Intensely aromatic (notes of anise, black currants, coffee, roastiness and alcohol) and heavy on the palate, this brew goes where few can - and fewer dare even try. The style originated from Czarist Russia's demand for ever thicker English stouts. Expect our version of this mysterious brew to pour like Siberian crude and taste even heavier! “ - Notes: 10.5% ABV, 65 IBUs

Stone Ruination IPA

“So called because of the "ruinous" effect on your palate! This massive hop monster has a wonderfully delicious and intensely bitter flavor on a refreshing malt base. One taste and you can easily see why we call this brew "a liquid poem to the glory of the hop!" Those who seek, crave and rejoice in beers with big, bold, bitter character will find true nirvana in Stone Ruination IPA! “ - Notes: 7.7% ABV, 100+ IBUs

Of course, I have always been a fan of the Russian Imperial Stout – strong, a lot of body. The Ruination IPA has that hop jolt I adore and is very smooth. The Celi Begian gave me the impression of “spicy banana”. The Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard was WOW! ... an amazing mix of bitter citrus and pine with oak. All were phenomenal, however.

Due to the motivation gained from the tasting, companion ordered a pint of the Russian Imperial Stout and I had an Oak Aged Arrogant Bastard. Mission accomplished for Team HopHeads!

Engine 15's Empanadas
ASK FOR THEM!

Jason, tap room manager from the Green Room had suggested we try Engine 15's empanadas. Although not on the menu, you can ask for them when placing your order.

The empanadas were amazing – Jason was so right! … others at our table started ordering them once they saw us inhaling them. Some even ordered a second helping.

Others joining us at our table that evening included Marc from Springfield Brew Crew and Kristi, Danny, his neighbor John and Ian who we met at Intuition Ale Works.

Another afternoon of great beer and fellowship with good folks!

Thank you to David Rigdon and James from Team Hopheads and the crew at Engine 15 for a memorable Jax Brew Bitch experience!

http://www.stonebrew.com/

http://www.engine15.com/home/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Engine-15-Brewing-Company/428033335437

To view more images visit the link below ...

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.273394179412865.66218.181100418642242&type=3

Danny was heading out of Engine 15 (after two orders of empanadas!) and casually mentioned he was bound for European Street where it was still Happy Hour! ... we were soon " Green Flag Racin' " just down the street to  the European Street Cafe (992 Beach Blvd).

Danny was at the bar as we arrived and Ryan was our friendly and experienced bartender. I knew I wanted another Kasteel Rouge, a delicious nectar I had frist tried just a few days earlier (see earlier blog post). Companion locked in on the tap indicating Terrapin Beer Company's Hopsecutioner was "in the house"!

We also met some of the other patrons, including Rich. Rich lives locally and serves our country in active duty with the military. He also loves beer!

I think it was Danny who started floating around a glass of the St. Bernardus Abt. 12 – also available on tap. I was feeling "very European" indeed guzzling ... uh ... I mean sipping both the Kasteel Rouge and St. Bernadus Abt. 12. Companion said something about the "night we met" and "always loving a two-fisted drinkin' gal" ... but I attributed that to the tasty, award-winning Hopsecutioner he was inhaling.

Terrapin's website includes the following info on that brew:

"This Killer IPA earns its name by using six different types of hops while still remaining an aggressive well balanced beer."

Malt: 2 Row Pale Malt,Munich, Pale Crystal 24L, Victory

Hops: Warrior, Chinook, Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo, Cascade (dry hop)

Awards: Gold Medal- 2010 Atlantic City Beer Festival (India Pale Ale)

ABV: 7.3%

IBU’s: 78

Okay, the empanadas companion and I had shared were wearing off ... our fellow patrons were applauding the growls being generated by our rather empty stomachs, so we knew it was time to eat.

I was able to swat the freakin' Fried Fairy away and we ordered (descriptions per their menu):

Blue Max ($8.50) - "Smoked pastrami and hot mustard, corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and blue cheese dressing. Served hot.”

and

Muffaletta ($8.50) - “Ciabotta bread filled with ham, Genoa salami, provolone, Swiss cheese, olive oil and olive salad mix. Served hot”

The Blue Max was the perfect sandwish to pair with the St. Bernardus! ... I love the blue cheese dressing!

The Muffaletta was delicious – and I am very partial to the original prepared daily at Central Grocery in New Orleans. The olive oil salad mix differs from that in the Crescent City, but it is unique and tasty!

As I posted in my blog a few days ago, the descriptions of the Kasteel Rouge and St. Bernardus Abt. 12 included  here again;

Kasteel's rather unique website contains this description for the Kasteel Rouge - “Castle Red is the fruit beer of the Castle range. Its unique dark red colour is obtained by mixing Castle brown that has been left to mature for at least 6 months with sour cherries. This beer has gastronomic qualities and can be drunk as an aperitif, with a BBQ, to accompany a dessert or simply as an outstanding real ale.

The website for St. Bernardus declares: “The absolute top quality in the hierarchy of the St. Bernardus beers. It is also the beer with the highest alcohol content (10.50 %). A dark ivory coloured beer with a high fermentation.
The show piece of the brewery. Thanks to its soft and unconditionally genuine aroma, the beer can be smoothly tasted. The Abt has a very fruity flavour.”

Thanks to Ryan and European Street Cafe – Jax Beach for providing the perfect setting for a memorable Jax Brew Bitch experience!

http://terrapinbeer.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Central-Grocery-New-Orleans/222083581138191

http://europeanstreet.com/

Jason & Christine at
Green Room Brewing

Danny was taking his leave of our group and we decided to venture forth on this Prowl to the Green Room Brewing's Tap Room (228 3rd Street North, Jax Beach). Bidding farewell to Ryan and Rich, we skipped on over there.

Upon entering, we were pleased to see Christine and Jason, Tap Room Manager. We let him know how right he was about Engine 15's empanadas and ordered pints of their Undertow Orange Blossom Barleywine and Shaka Oatmeal Stout.

Sweet, precious Diamond

The Shaka is somewhat sweet with a strong coffee influence. The Undertow was brewed with local orange blossom honey and has a noticeable citrusy body with what I perceived as honey and oak notes..

We had convinced Marc and Kristi to join us and we were easily able to carry on conversations owing to the sparse crowd at this late hour on a “school-night”.

Thanks to Christine and Jason for indulging our questions and extended discussions! … they are the best!

http://www.greenroombrewing.com/

http://www.facebook.com/GreenRoomBrewing

To view more images from Green Room Brewing, visit the link below

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.273396356079314.66221.181100418642242&type=3

Exploding Cheeseburger from
Philly's Finest Ice Bar

Exiting Green Room, for some reason (was it the Kasteel Rouge at European Street?), I was reminded of my ballet days as a little girl – so, I “couru”-ed myself to the Jeep. Climbing in, who else but the freakin' Fried Fairy had appeared once again. Unable to swat effectively, that fairy had the nerve to challenge me to eat the “Exploding Cheeseburger” at Philly’s Finest Ice Bar (1527 North 3^rd Street, Jax Beach).

We were pleased and impressed Philly’s Finest Ice Bar was still open and still serving burgers! … their menu describes the “Exploding Cheeseburger” as:

“Our “2-Wheeler” stuffed down the middle with extra, extra cheddar cheese sauce - $7.99” … extra-extra cheddar cheese sauce? … well then, “bring-it-on - bring-it-on” !

We ordered a pint (to share) of Bold City Brewery's Dukes Cold Nose Brown Ale described on their website as: “This is a mild brown ale which is easily drinkable. A Slight nuttiness and sweetness are present.”

The Exploding Cheeseburger was fabulous! … Served in two halves open-faced, it was a perfect substantial meal to share. Jacque was once again our gracious bartender/server and she did a great job.

Having embarked at such an early hour that day, it was sadly time to call an end to this Jax Brew Bitch Prowl – thank you to Jacque and Philly’s Finest Ice Bar for providing the perfect conclusion to this very exciting day!

The freakin' Fried Fairy was chuckling at me while winking once and disappearing from my shoulder on my way to the Jeep. Contentedly strapped into my seat and quickly falling to sleep, I realized THAT fairy is really not such a bad fairy, after all.

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

http://www.phillys-finest.com/

Summit tasting at Brewer's Pizza & poppin' caps at Kickback's

James with Team Hopheads

We were ready to Prowl on Tuesday (March 27) since we had stayed in the evening before and Brewer’s Pizza was having the perfect event – featuring Summit Brewing Horizon Red Ale. James, from Team Hopheads was there to answer questions about Summit and their brews.

 Hungry as we arrived, we quickly ordered their extremely popular Florida Smacker ($7.99) described on Brewer's website: “Our trademark 8” deep dish pizza with light, fluffy crust and golden brown crunchy sides,made with the finest mozzarella cheese and our famous sauce, including one regular topping.”

The Florida Smacker

So delicious! … and a very good value.

Joining us at the table were Vince, Debbie and Rick. Gabby was our friendly and effective server once again, making the experience even more enjoyable. Keegan dropped by to say hello  - and to see what we were drinking!

Summit Brewing Company describes their Red Ale: “An inspired hybrid that blurs the boundaries between IPA and Amber styles. The exceptional blend of American hops (including the harder-to-find Horizon variety) gives it an intense pine, citrus and earthy character in the nose and on the tongue.”

This was a somewhat lighter red ale than I expected. The 4.5% ABV and 60 IBUs makes it (to me) a middle-of-the-road red – a good choice for an everyday grab out of the fridge.

My flight plan ...

I ordered a Flight of the Brewer's Pizza brews (descriptions per their website):

Ambitious Monk - “Belgian Tripel, 9.3%, BA Rated - Notes: Golden body, sugary sweet malts, dangerously drinkable.” - Smooth and sweet – impressive brew!

Tailhook - “Brown Ale, 7.3%, BA Rated - Notes: Florida Wildflower honey, strong earthy hops.” - honey flavor noticeable – good body – a strong brown, in my book!

Pinglehead - “Imperial Red Ale, 8.3%, BA Rated - Notes: Medium bodied, dry hopped, caramel sweet finish.” - this one is growing on my significantly – I am partial to Karl Strauss (San Diego) Red Trolley Ale but this one is very close!

Landslide - “Double India Pale Ale, 8.0%, BA Rated - Notes: Pungent, floral, citrusy hops, heavy honey malts”. - Nice hop jolt – the citrus on the front end and honey on the back end  was my experience – very good!

Companion and I decided to then share Brewer's Pizza Moon Dance Sweet Stout noted on their website as: “Sweet Stout, 7.0%, BA Rated - Rich Chocolate, Sweet oats, Silky Body.” - As noted in an earlier blog post, I love this one!

Thanks to James from Team HopHeads, Gabby, Keegan and the rest of the staff at Brewer's Pizza for this delicious experience!

http://www.summitbrewing.com/

http://www.brewerspizza.com/home/

To view images from Brewer's Pizza visit the link below ...

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.273392369413046.66217.181100418642242&type=3

I guess Vince wanted to fatten me up. He invited me and companion to his abode for apple pie and Newcastle Brown Ale. Great combination! … the scrumptious apple pie was from Fresh Market and the Newcastle Brown Ale was from … Vince's fridge – well, I guess England since it is an English style ale now produced by Heineken International.

Thanks to Vince for the calories!

http://www.thefreshmarket.com/

http://newcastlebrown.com/

As I climbed into the Jeep to leave Vince's house, I noticed the brew fairy, Tinker Beer, was secured to my left shoulder and was whispering to me that  Kickback’s Gastropub had Dogfish Head brews on tap! … All right! … give Tink some more hoppy-dust!

The Jeep was already motorin' toward Kickbacks and we pulled into a convenient spot in the back. We were excited we were seated in an area being served by Jill, one of my Ale Angels.

We ordered two Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales offerings: (descriptions per their website):

Dogfish Head's Aprihop
sooo lacey

Aprihop IPA ($5.45) – Sooo lacey - “Aprihop is an American IPA brewed with Pilsner and Crystal malts. It's massively hopped -- in the continuous fashion, of course! -- and the flavor is complemented by the addition of apricots.

After fermentation, the beer is dry hopped with irresponsible amounts of Amarillo hops. The beer has a hoppy aroma, with the apricots playing a supporting role.

The flavor is rich with late hop flavors, and its bitterness is tempered by just the right amount of malt sweetness and fruity undertones from the apricots.” - Note: 7.0% ABV 50 IBUs – apricot very noticeable! … good hop jolt!

Dogfish Head's
Chicory Stout

Chicory Stout -($ 5.45) - “Chicory was one of the first beers we started brewing at our pub back when it opened in 1995. It's a dark beer made with a bunch of roasted chicory, organic Mexican coffee, St. John's Wort and licorice root. We use whole-leaf Cascade and Fuggle hops, as well as pale, roasted and oatmeal grains. Chicory is roasty and delicious, and it's a fantastic food beer. It pairs very well with chocolate!” - Note: 5.2% ABV  21 IBUs – not the strong chicory aftertaste like the New Orleans style coffee – great, lighter body stout smooth through the end.

Tinker Beer had instantly floated off to “hummingbird” the taps at the bar. I soon noticed the freakin' Fried Fairy had once again appeared and was pointing a crispy wing down to a selection on Kickback’s significant food menu.

Kickback's Jalapeno Bottlecaps

Fried Jalapeno Bottle Caps - $6.79 – Red and green breaded jalapeno bites served with jalapeno ranch dressing … okay, bring 'em on …

WOW! … we found by taking a bite of the jalapeno bottle cap, waiting about 30 seconds and then taking a swallow of the Aprihop, the Aprihop flavors were much more intense! ...

It was so good seeing Jill again and we were glad to hear the Kat was back at Kickback’s! She's my original  Ale Angel and a girl who knows and loves her beer! … Jill was a superb beer temptress that evening and she made us feel like we were home.

We were able to briefly speak with owner Steve Flores. His concern about quality, his staff and his customers is obviously paramount to him and Jacksonville is indeed blessed to have Kickback’s Gastropub - “beer central” of our community.

Thanks to Jill, Steve Flores and his staff at Kickback’s for consistently delivering the best - and for providing the PERFECT place to end a Jax Brew Bitch Prowl!

www.dogfish.com

http://www.facebook.com/kickbacksgastropub