Goose Island - King Henry

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

Magically stumbled across a bottle of this for $15 or $16. There were still 5 or 6 other bottles when I bought this. Had I been thinking, and also willing to go through the effort of trading, those probably could have netted me whatever my heart desires.

Well, it's a bourbon barrel aged barleywine. No hop presence. Really sweet, with the standard vanilla and oak notes. Its pretty enjoyable, but there's no way I would've been satisfied paying an outrageous price for this.

Mandy also found it unoffensive, which is a glowing review for a barleywine (especially one barrel aged).

Founders Pale Ale

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

Mildly bitter, a lot maltier than I expected. I wouldn't have picked out cascade hops unless I had looked at their website.

Its a fine beer, I wouldn't go out of my way to get it again though.

Schmaltz & Terrapin - Reunion Ale 11

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

This went well with humus and cheese. I was expecting a stout, based on the addition of cocoa nibs, vanilla and chili pepper, but its more of a strong ale. Hints of the cocoa nibs are definitely present. Its mildly sweet. The chili pepper is undetectable, which is disappointing. I'd pass. Nothing remarkable.

New Belgium - Belgo

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

This is a pretty enjoyable belgian IPA. Nice hop profile, not too bitter. Maybe a little too sweet? Definitely an IPA with belgian yeast vs. a hoppy belgian ale. On the style of raging bitch.

Founders Imperial Stout

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

Fresh this is a lot more bitter, especially with a lingering sharp bitter/burnt coffee aftertaste.

With one year on it, the bitterness has really dropped off. The aftertaste is now more chocolatey, with a hint of anise as well. Almost like a completely different beer. I like it a lot. I'll definitely age the remaining two I have from 2011.