Anchor - Our Special Ale 2012

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

After somehow missing the 2011 version last year, I picked myself up a 6 pack of the 2012 while at Trader Joe's.

A strong whiff of ginger. Fine enough. 

Maine Beer Co. - Peeper Ale

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

I've had this a few times in Maine on my various travels. It's a lemony pale ale. No real malt backbone although it describes itself as having a "pleasant malt body."

It would be a much better beer if they bottled (or canned) it in six packs and charged $10 for it instead of $6-7 for the 20 oz. Also, it would be better if I was drinking this in the middle of the summer.

Nice & pleasant, no reason to go out of your way for it though. Bonus points for their super simplistic labels.

Maine Beer Co. - Mean Old Tom

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

For a beer that boasts "aged on vanilla beans" there is hardly a hint of vanilla. The finish is overly harsh and bitter with an almost ashy taste. Very disappointing after the other solid beers from these guys.

I would not recommend this, or if you do happen upon a bottle, sit on it for a year or so to mellow out the bitterness. 

Widmer Bros - Shaddock IPA

From Joe Drinks Dinner and Stuff

Pretty acceptable. Could be a little more carbonated and slightly more bitter in the middle. The aftertaste really does taste like grapefruit. That is all.

Widmer - Falconer's Flight IPA

This was very enjoyable and had the great low price of $8 for the six pack. It shares the same hop as DC Brau's On the Wings of Armageddon and Public Ale.

Caramel and mild bready malt flavor. Moderate amount of bitterness, aroma is nice (could be a little stronger, but I'll take it). Recommended.