Beer Review: Brooklyn Monster

As I mentioned in the last post I would be writing some more reviews on my new favorite style, barleywines. I discovered Brooklyn Monster at Effin Gruven not too long ago –is anyone actually shocked? Brooklyn Brewery has yet to disappoint me and with a name like Monster, I knew I had to inquire about this new beer on the chalkboard. I asked the bartender what style of beer it is and the moment he said barleywine, I was sold. (And despite what certain friends may think, I did not choose the beer because it reminded me of Lady Gaga’s song “Monster,” although it certainly didn’t hinder me.

Appearance: Amber color, clear, very thin head, and good amount of carbonation.

Smell: Very fruity (cherries) and sweet mixed with malt. Similar smell to the few barleywines I’ve tasted.

Taste: With many high alcoholic beers typically comes that warming sensation and this was very present in Monster. The fruity complex flavors blend perfectly with the malt and hops. The ratio of malt to hops is just right making it not too bitter to drink.

Mouthfeel: Medium body with decent carbonation and dry finish.

Drinkability: Really delicious and it definitely embodies the style of the ale. Great on the palate and if it weren’t so strong, I would easily order a second one. A little note on the label says it’s great with cheeses or desserts and I must say that I did have a craving for cheese while drinking it. Next time I pick up a case, I’ll have to test it out.

Overall Rating: A

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Craft Brewer Up for James Beard Award

We beer lovers often get snubbed by the general public, foodies, and snoody wine drinkers. We’re kicked off to the side and stereotyped as fat men living in a van DOWN BY THE RIVER! I’m not a man nor am I fat and I live by the ocean dammit! But today we can celebrate a victory! For the second year in a row, a craft beer brewer has been nominated for a James Beard Award. For those who aren’t chefs or Food Network or Top Chef watchers, the James Beard Foundation is like the Grammy’s or Oscars for the food industry.

This year’s nominee is Sam Calagione of Dogfish Craft Brewery. He is nominated in the Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional category. Kind of shocking since the word beer isn’t in there…I mean beer is only the oldest alcoholic beverage and ranks number 3 for most popular beverage, but what do I know? Garrett Oliver of Brooklyn Brewery (big up to Brooklyn!) was nominated last year, making him the first brewer ever nominated for this highly highly prestigious award.

Calagione is most likely nominated thanks to his hit show on the Discovery Channel, Brewmasters. I feel so ashamed because I had no idea this show existed. I’ll make sure to do some research and hopefully catch a few episodes so I can report back to you. Any loyal followers catch this show?

I’m going to be perfectly frank, I hope Calagione kicks those winemakers’ asses and takes one home for the team. No disrespect to wine. I love wine. But I love beer more and I think we’re all a little tired of defending our drink of choice. The award show will take place on May 9. If he wins, party at my house with plenty of Dogfish ale. And by party I mean only 5 of my closest friends jammed in my room. I wish him luck!

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