Brother Thelonius bottle
Brother Thelonius (9.4 per cent ABV) is not quite in the echelon of a Pliny the Elder, but definitely one of those American craft beers with international recognition. Brewed by North Coast in Fort Bragg, California, it is loosely described as a Belgian Style Ale, but this is a Quadrupel no doubt about it. Burnt caramel and tutti-frutti ester on the nose, with banana lollies and Liquorice Allsorts. Big golden syrup on the palate, with some brief stone fruit before a smoky bitterness rises into the finish. A recognisably American version of a Belgian classic, bringing more weight and bitterness but less earthy spice and yeast nuance. Belgian purists may find reason to look askance, but I appreciate confidently different take.

 

Bach Brewing Sticky Buds III

by | May 12, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

I’m far from ready to declare a favourite from this year's fresh hop season, but I surely have some contenders, and the third edition of Bach Brewing Sticky Buds (by way of Steam Brewing) is most definitely on the list.  Fresh Nectaron is the pick here, supporting a...
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by | May 12, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

It’s here… the full force of the fresh hop storm is upon us, and I find myself again in the (not so arduous) position of having vastly too many releases to choose from. So for this week’s feature, I’ll pick one that I’ve been most looking forward to reuniting with. ...
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by | May 12, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

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by | May 12, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

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by | April 13, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

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Haagen Lager

by | April 13, 2026 | Recommended | 0 Comments

As consumers, we all have two lines that constrain our habits.  Above, there’s the price ceiling, when the cost of beer gets above a certain point we’ll turn away.  That price ceiling has been talked about to death over the last five years (at least). ...
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