Where’ve I been lately? Away from the computer, that’s where. Sorry there hasn’t been any snarky industry commentary or any of my absolutely gripping beer reviews. I’ve just been preoccupied with other things, primarily working my fingers to the bone and relaxing with a beer or two at home most nights.

As for the blog, I was forced to change the template because there were some issues with the layout. Anyway, it’s obviously got a new look, and I hope it’s not too harmful on the eyes. I did the best I could with what little talent I have, and included a couple features I hope are helpful.

Anyway, I did manage to have some fun over the weekend and take some notes on it, so don’t think I haven’t been fitting beer into my schedule whenever possible.

Sunday was a day to kick back, take in some afternoon hockey, and taste some fine beer. My friend Steve has been complaining about the amount of beer he has just sitting, not being consumed, and I’ve had the same problem as of late. What to do? Impromptu tasting, that’s what.

We supped some Lake Placid Ubu Ale, a musty, smoky, and rather complex brown ale with a light body. Not a bad way to start off. Then came the Regenboog ‘TSmisje Dubbel, brewed with honey and dates. The only Regenboog I’ve had was their Kerst, which really blew me away. However, this offering didn’t do as much for me. It was sweet and boozy, similar to an Old Ale, but with less of a syrupy malt flavor. Something about it didn’t overly impress me, but I like the idea behind it regardless.

Next was an Eel River Triple Exultation (which is an Old Ale) that I’ve been hanging onto for a while, and I’m almost positive it’s over a year old. I started taking some notes on it, but said screw it… that was one I wanted to soak up and let linger in the memory. Nevertheless, I recommend it.

Following this was a De Ranke Bitter XX and a Russian River Damnation to cap it off. Supposedly the “hoppiest beer of Belgium,” the De Ranke left me wanting, but more than likely because of all the hype it’s received over the years. Granted, it’s an IPA Tripel, and it possessed plenty of citrusy hop and pale malt flavors, but for some reason, I’m not a fan. It could be the fusion of style that gets to me; with Belgian sugar and a hopping that seems kind of misplaced, it makes for an odd match-up. I think Houblon Chouffe really nails it, but it seems like a tough combination to brew and have it come out somewhat balanced. Maybe I just need to sit down with another one of these, but at $17 or more a bottle, I may have to hold off on picking that one up again.

The Damnation (Batch 12), on the other hand, was quite a treat. Its aroma was biscuity, pale malt, and even a yeasty presence, with a backbone of citrus and banana-like notes. On the palate, it was a juicy, bready, and full of banana, which was offset by a perfect funky hop bitterness. The malt and sweetness made for a solid, well-balanced beer that had plenty of complexity and a smooth aftertaste of the aforementioned flavors.

There were some cheeses there: that absolutely excellent Black Diamond Aged Cheddar, a one year-old Gouda, and some Stilton-wrapped-in-something abomination. It wasn’t really a pairing per se, Steve just happened to have some cheese laying around, and purchased that Stilton one that came highly recommended (which we both found laughable). But regardless, it was a great afternoon to sit and chip away at our stockpiles.