Review: Victory Donnybrook Stout

This was enjoyed on tap at Tyler's in Durham as part of their Wednesday Pint Nights. This nitro pour had a creamy, thick head that stuck around a while. The first sip produced a surprisngly thin mouthfeel with a roasty caramel taste. The Donnybrook stout has a smooth drinkability, and with a reasonable alcohol content, you can drink a few without it being terribly filling or inebriating. I give this one a B+.

Big Boss Merlot Cask Belgian Brown

After seeing a note on beerinator.com about Big Boss' newest special release, I decided to stop by on the way home from work today. This is nothing like any beers I've had from Big Boss, and quite a great beer. Definite oak presence, and some nice fruitiness (from the Merlot I presume). I definitely recommend trying to get down to Horniblow's to try this special release!

Natty Greene's Coming to Raleigh!

http://www.gogoraleigh.com/2009/01/22/natty-greenes-coming-to-powerhouse-square/

Moving into the old Southend Brewery space. I've had great times at their Greensboro location, hopefully they keep the same quality offerings once they open up here in Raleigh.

Lone Rider Brewery - Raleigh

The first tour of this new Raleigh Brewery is tonight, Friday, Jan. 23 from 6 pm till 8pm. We are looking forward to seeing what they have to offer. Seems that their hefeweizen, dubbed Shotgun Betty is going to be their first regular release. I've heard that they also have a seasonal Robust Porter. Hopefully they will be a great addition to the ever-growing Raleigh beer scene.

Update:  Well the tour was packed, definitely a good sign.  There was even an appearance by NC State House representative Ty Harrell.  We were able to try both beers, as described above.  The porter was excellent, good creamy mouthfeel, and nice dark chocolate and coffee flavors.  Shotgun Betty was a bit sweet for my tastes, but it will surely be a popular selection at local watering holes.  Keg prices were very reasonable, at $124 for a 1/2 bbl and I believe $52 for a 1/6 bbl.  They are brewing on a 15 bbl system and said they were going to try and start bottling within 6-8 months.

Coming soon...