News From Beyond the Grave

I no longer am employed at Harper Corner Liquor store.

My former boss is telling people that I wanted to pursue other avenues of employment, and that I was doing very well. Needless to say, that is his story, not mine. Mine is that in the month of September, we lost our cat to infection, I got fired, and Joni's back went out. Frankly, I don't care what the guy wants to tell people. I don't work there any more, and (thankfully) whatever is going on there is none of my business. I found work at Riverridge Grill (a cafe out by K-Mart distributing, behind Hallmark) in early October, where I make a babysitter's wage, plus tips. In the meantime, I have applied for a Douglas County 9-1-1 Dispatch position as an operator. This may be the right kind of challenge I need, I think. I went through a testing and an interview throughout the month of October, and into early November. Now, pending a thorough background check, I may be seeing a career change in my future that doesn't involve slinging booze and handling very dirty money. You think regular money is dirty? You should look at Harper Corner's cash. Nasty...

Then, on October 31st, this year, Daniel Wolf Valentine passed away.

The man was blessed with the gift of artful conversation, and a dear friend of mine. I didn't even know that he was sick, and he was gone less than two weeks later. He was a compatriot of Auntie Mae's parlor in Manhattan, KS. Auntie Mae's, I feel, is the greatest bar I've ever been to, and Dan worked there. In turn, Mae's hosted an event to benefit Dan's surviving daughter, Alexis, raising over $10,000 for her to go to college. People got together from all over for this event, and I was one of them. I felt -- and still feel -- that I am privileged to have known Dan for who he was and what he means to the world he left behind.

I turned 32 on November 2.

That's right, I had a frickin' birthday. You want to fight about it?

And I drank some beer... On to new business...

We took off in early September for Colorado Springs, CO (Manitou Springs, to be more precise), drinking a number of various ales and lagers on tap from the likes of Phantom Canyon, Ska Brewery, and Bristol. Looking back, Hoptober was still available from New Belgium in Ft. Collins. Copper and malty, this cornucopia of five kinds of malt and five hop varietals, Hoptober stands up to the best of microbrews as a shining example of a well-balanced Oktoberfest. I also got a chance to try the Modus Hoperandi on tap from Ska Brewing Company. But really, my favorite was at...

Bristol Brewing Company

Colorado Springs, CO

This place just oozes love for the universe. Only positive vibes allowed at this brewery. I find the most familiarity with their Mass Transit Ale, the 6-pack of which features a VW Bus. They also, of course, make their own IPA they call Compass, which is pretty impressive as it stands, but dig this, they also pour the same beer, but with a nitro-charge. It was my first nitro-charged IPA, true, but as I sat and drank, I would have sworn it had turned an India Pale Ale into an Extra Special Bitter. It was quite memorable: rich sharp citrus and baseball-bat-pine tar with a deep chocolate malt brick wall in the back. This is a must if you are in the area.

Then I experimented at home...

I spent some time out of the box. I tried some He'brew Lenny's R.I.P.A. and was very impressed with what I tried. It cashes in at a pretty high price, but will not disappoint. I also discovered Avery Lane Riesling, a tasty mild Willamette Valley Riesling that rings up for about 8 bucks. Oh, and I noticed that the 4-packs of Boulevard Smokestack Series have hit the shelf, which is a very good deal. And I tried that new 21st Anniversary Pale Ale from Boulevard, as well. Wow. If you thought that you already had experienced their flagship Pale Ale, you must try this. As for myself, I did not know that Boulevard could take their Pale and turn it into a refined, even distinguished beverage worthy of a $12.00 price tag. Well, they have.

So please reset you tray tables and seat backs to their full and upright positions, friends.

I don't think that the upcoming ride is getting any more bumpy, but it definitely is coming up. Everything, as we should expect, is still moving forward. It is now my task to try and redirect all of my future correspondence from my new blog, The J-Train. I hope you're all doing well, and if you see me on Facebook, gimme a poke or something.

And, as always...

Stay thirsty, my friends.

More IPA News

Let's Call it a Draw...

When it comes to India Pale Ales, there are obviously a lot of choices out there. Today, after taking a closer look at my blog, I've noticed that I have presented a very glossed-over explanation of the IPA in all of its greatness, but haven't yet presented a comparative list to give better reference points from which to decide which beer best matches your palette. Today, I offer a better background explanation of the subtle differences between common India Pale Ale, Imperial variants, and hop/malt content. So, without further ado, I present to you all I have to offer in the world of IPAs. My next entry will focus on IPA alternatives (aka "lighter" beers, fruit beers, pilsners, and lagers). BUT FIRST...

IPA's You Should Try

Single Wide IPA, Boulevard Brewery

Kansas City, MO

This was the first IPA that I truly enjoyed purely for what it was. Granted, I've had the opportunity to try it on tap (at the Replay, of course), this IPA is super-clean and super-bright. The malt used doesn't have as dark of a complexion as many others I've seen on the shelf, but that doesn't keep this ale from packing a punch (59 IBU's). If you haven't tried many IPA's, this may be the one you should start with. Big grapefruit flavor right up front contrasts nicely with the huge hop undertones; to me, this is the essence of the American IPA.

Bridgeport IPA, Bridgeport Brewery

Portland, OR

Bridgeport Brewery is Oregon's first craft brewery, founded in 1985. Their India Pale Ale was one of the first to be made and mass distributed, making it a beer that many have had the opportunity to try. Most bars in Lawrence carry this beer in a bottle. At only 50 IBU's, this ale has won several awards from as far back as 1997, but doesn't carry with it the pretension of adherence to European or Belgian standards. A rich golden hue, this beer pours with a great white head, plenty of hop aroma, and a pleasant bitterness that doesn't overpower the sweet malt undertone.

Racer 5 IPA, Bear Republic Brewery

Healdsburg, CA

This IPA has a heavy malt sweetness, but the top notes of Cascade hops don't cut through the thickness like the Single-Wide IPA. A very deep flavor of malted hops permeates throughout the ale with heavy caramel and maple syrup aromas. A dark amber caramel color, this beer is a pleasant alternative to Single-Wide, and I would recommend it as a second step to take after the Single-Wide. Where Single-Wide offers sharp crisp top notes, the Racer 5 counters with a carefully balanced malted sweetness coupled with clean Cascade and Centennial flavor.

Modus Hoperandi, Ska Brewery

Durango, CO

This brand new IPA variant offers a happy medium of hops and malt that falls somewhere in between the Single-Wide and the Bridgeport IPA's. Not overly malted, the Modus Hoperandi has taken Emporia, Topeka, and Kansas City by storm, and is quickly becoming a local favorite. The way they put it themselves, Ska brewery claims that this ale is like that time you went on a vision quest with your native American friend and woke up in a pine forest full of grapefruit trees. My favorite conceptual idea of the brewery lies in the package design: it's sold in 6-packs of 12-oz. cans. Highly efficient, this snappy ale spins and swivels on one's palette like a skankin' pickle. Bright grapefruit up front like Single-Wide, yet sweet and sassy notes of pine resin from Pale malt, I could see this as being a proper third step in your journey down the IPA path (65 IBU's).

O'Fallon 5-Day IPA, O'Fallon Brewery

O'Fallon, MO

Okay, okay, okay... Months ago, I promised I would figure out what the 5-Day IPA was all about, and I have to admit that at first, I was quite dismayed by the customer response. Some people found the beer downright awful while some found it to be pleasant, sweet, and crisp (all my favorite qualities of a good IPA). They dry-hop this ale with 7 grains, 4 domestic hop variants, and a touch of class. The 5-Day time frame starts when they add dry whole hops to the top of the finishing tank, permitting it to add more hop flavor for an additional 5 days. This process ensures the proper top notes of Cascade and Glacier hops balances perfectly with the honest but direct malty sweetness up front. Let me put it this way: Give this 66 IBU IPA a try when you're ready to discover why this beer was selected as the Best Beer of St. Louis, 2008.

Hop Czar, Bridgeport Brewery

Portland, OR

Okay, now we're talking... This amazingly well-built beer is the next step in brewing perfection. Start with a deep caramel-copper color similar to the Racer 5, malted heavily. Next, triple hop each barrel with around 2 lbs of Cascade, Centennial, Nugget, and Chinook hops. Finish with an Imperial malt that takes the malt flavor just over the top, and you've got the Czar. The most bitter IPA of all I've tried (85 IBU's), I expected this beer to be less appealing than it truly is. The Imperial malt sweetness stands up to the citrus and grapefruit flavored hops nicely, making this ale (sorry to say, Single-Wide) my new favorite IPA. It's just well-built, and I don't know how else to put it. If you enjoy IPA's of various kinds, you must give this one a try. I dare you to find a better balance of bitter and sweet.

And I'm spent...

I hope that you find this information entertaining, enjoyable, and helpful (at times). Please, as always, enjoy your alcohol responsibly. All of these beers are available at Harper Corner, so feel free to swing by and take your pick. Until then...

Stay thirsty, my friends...

Springtime in Lawrence

Ah, Spring...

...that lovely time of year when one's thoughts turn to fresh produce at the Farmer's Market, the return of cargo shorts, sandals, and smoked St. Louis style ribs glistening with sauce. What's missing? Let's explore that, shall we?

First, let's catch up on old business...

Easter!

Honestly, if you're all about getting hammered on Easter while struggling to remember the lyrics to The Old Rugged Cross, then you've got more problems than I can address in this blog. The trick, though, is to sneak in a half-pint: they fit right in the inside pocket of that suit that you've worn every Easter for 15 years. All jokes aside, let's regard the drinking holidays for what they are. Easter, I have to declare, is the exact opposite of a "drinker's" holiday. After all, every real drinker knows that there are 2 real drinking holidays, which brings us to new business.

St. Patty's Day

Now we're talking, eh? St. Patty's Day offered the same kind of standard fare as always. We celebrated by playing the Pogues, Flogging Molly, and Dropkick Murphy's in random orders throughout the entire day. Hope you all woke up safe and in your own bed (or at least a safe one). For the time being, however, we still have some Boulevard Irish Ale in stock, and we have to make room for their newest seasonal addition, Boss Tom's Golden Bock. That means that we have no choice but to sell the Irish Ale at a ridiculous $5.99 while supply lasts. Last I checked, we only had a couple cases left, so get them while they're cheap.

But remember, there is one more drinker's holiday... And it's coming up... VERY SOON... Ladies and gentlemen, please brace yourself for my personal favorite drinker's holiday on the books...

Cinco de Mayo

Ay, ay, ay, ay!!! Arriba, baby!!! Holy crap, we're talking about Cinco de Mayo, we're talking about margaritas and mojitos and saannnnnngria. Cinco de Mayo is like the Fourth of July plus St. Patty's Day plus Mardis Gras divided by Easter. It is awesome. It's not too late in the season to be uncomfortably hot (like the 4th can be), but very rarely ends up a rainy day (like St. Patty's), it's the perfect excuse to take the day off to experiment with tequila (or mezcal), and it's my favorite holiday to go out. Henry's, a coffeehouse/bar downtown, makes a mad sangria for the 5th of May, and I strongly recommend trying one of the very one-of-a-kind margaritas from La Parilla, just down the street. If going out isn't your style, feel free to swing by and pick up some Landshark, Corona Light, or grab a cheap 12-pack of Tecate for just $9.99.

But wait, there's more...

For example, we picked up some Ginger Bee from Crabtree Brewery in Greeley, CO. Francis Ford Coppola's Diamond series reds are on the shelf for that special grilled steak dinner. Of course, if you're looking for a bright crisp white, we offer the Bianco pinot grigio as the perfect Coppola wine for the pedestrian connoisseur (that's right, Janet, I'm talking about you). Also, we have incredible sales on Bauer Haus Rieslings and Parrot Bay Mango and Pineapple Rum. All in all, I'd say that it's beginning to look a lot like Cinco de Mayo around the store, folks, and I think it's about time you swing on by. I'll see you around... Until then...

...stay thirsty, my friends.

IPA Panic

Now, I don't know about y'all, but I've been hearing a lot about the India Pale Ale, so I've done a little bit of research. If you've ever been curious about what made the IPA such a sought-after beverage, then this month has some interesting news in store for you...

New Beers

Ranger IPA

New Belgium Brewery

Ft. Collins, CO

Holy living crap. The New Belgium Brewery, which has astounded us silly with seasonal selections of spectacular splendor (like their spring selection in stock, the Mighty Arrow Pale Ale), brought forth a bounty of bouquets both bold and bubbly (like Blue Paddle), and flaunted funky flavors fastidiously refined (like Fat Tire and 1554), has never given us an India Pale Ale.

A Brief History Lesson

India Pale Ale was not created by Indians, but for them. Let me splain. England already had a huge domestic demand for their claim to fame, Pale Ale. However, they discovered that their ales sold better overseas (in India, most particularly) when catered to a more bitter flavor palette. In response, the English took lessons from Belgium, threw them out the window, and made rules of their own. They added more and more hops to the brew at key intervals, greatly increasing the hop (and alcohol) content of the final product, thus creating a more bitter product, thus increasing sales. However, even today, there is still some debate as to whether the hop additions were intended to turn profits overseas, or if the increased hop and alcohol content allowed the beer to survive the long trip to India. I like to think that, necessity being the mother of invention, the English needed enough ale to keep their trusty sailors drunk for pretty much the entire trip through the Atlantic -- and the Indian Ocean, to India -- from fricking England -- and still make a profit in sales. Traditional British Pale Ales would get skunky after a few days, and molded after a week. This would make sea travel harder on the guys who did all the work, namely, the hardcore alcoholics. If an army moves on its belly, a navy moves on its buzz. Either way you look at it, the India Pale Ale was created, and we all are better people for it.

Now, what was I talking about?

Oh, yeah, the New Belgium Brewery's newest creation is the Ranger IPA, which I am enjoying tonight. I, being a HUGE IPA fan, have to immediately think of my first favorite IPA: Single Wide IPA, from Boulevard Brewery in Kansas City, MO. I would recommend putting them side-by-side, just to see what would happen. I imagine it would be magical. The Boulevard IPA is bright, crisp, and even citrussy (if even such a word exists). The Ranger IPA adds a whopping 3 lbs. of hops per barrel, sporting sassy snippets of Simcoe, colossal colonies of Cascade, and a shower of shimmering Chinook hops. Ranger clocks in at an industry standard 6.5% alcohol, by volume (70 IBUs, if you're keeping score, at home), and claims a more caramel colored clad than its Kansas City cousin. The Ranger IPA starts off bright, but develops into a rich nutty snap that you have to try and try again. Knowing that this beer was made in Ft. Collins, CO, living in Lawrence, (fricking) Kansas, I have to say: drinking this beer, you can't help but feel like you're number one (go Hawks!).

Bearing this in mind...

There is a beer from O'Fallon Brewery in St. Louis, MO, coming in tomorrow, that is a 5 Day IPA. I have no idea what this means. To me, what it means is that I'll wind up spending my Valentine's Day swooning over hop variants instead of appreciating my wonderful and unbelievable First Mate and life long love (Joni, I love you!). Rest assured that when I find out what this 5-day time frame means, you, my faithful readers, will be among the first to know. From what I've gathered, hops are added at a number of different times when brewing an IPA, and it's an industry secret as to when they add the respective hops to create the right flavor balance, thus the system of IBUs (click here to read more on the IBU).

In addition...

We have a number of new wines that will be featured soon. Keep reading friends, and remember what Oscar Wilde said. "Everything in moderation, especially moderation." Of course, Mr. Wilde also said, "Nothing succeeds like excess."

Stay thirsty, my friends...

News From the Edge

Big Changes

Things are happening around the store, lately, kids. Big things. In case you haven't heard, Mandy, our very own tattoo-clad pirate princess has accepted a position at another Lawrence business as manager. This means that her unbelievable 10 years of slinging booze and 3 years of managing at Harper Corner are coming to an end. It is not without some sadness that I wish Mandy only the best of luck as she continues her way towards her personal and professional goals. Thank you, Mandy, for being a great boss, an efficient coworker, and a good friend.

New Products!!

IRON CITY BEER

Pittsburgh, PA

If you've been hanging around the Lawrence bar scene for as long as I have, you'll remember this beer that flourished in the downtown district around 5 years ago. Served originally in 16-oz. aluminum bottles, this lager is Pittsburgh's answer to PBR. This is a working man's beer, crafted for the Pittsburgh nation: a people raised on girders, grinders, and grog. While the aluminum bottles have given way to old fashioned glass, the six pack still sells at an affordable $4.99 for a limited time. Get some before Marc drinks it all!

Boulevard Smokestack

IMPERIAL PILSNER

Kansas City, MO

If you know what a Trappist beer is, then you know the Orval Trappist brewers of Belgium. For those who don't already know, let me break it down:

About a month ago, I had a customer (that's right, Matt, I'm talking about you) come in and discuss a beer that he tried this holiday season from a brewery called Chimay. I asked my O'Malley's rep about it, and was given a brief history/geography lesson concerning a series of 6 to 8 breweries that have a class, quite literally, of their own. For centuries, he explained, Cistercian Trappist monks have been brewing the same remarkably well-built beers with their own ingredients in the oldest traditions of their monastic lifestyle. Chimay and Orval are both Trappist breweries, along with maybe 5 others. Click here to learn more.

**** I have recently received word that this philosophy used by the Trappists extends beyond a simple dedication to beer, bread, and God. See, the way they saw things, God gave us grains to use to their ultimate end. Grains, only growing in the warmer months, could be converted into bread which would sustain them throughout the spring and summer. During this same time, the Trappists would brew and cask their beers, which would then age throughout the fall and winter, creating, "bread in a bottle." This combination of bread and bread in a bottle comprised the entirety of the Trappist monk's diet. ****

Jean-Marie Rock, a brewer from Orval brewery in Belgium, crafted a beer 30 years ago that signified his arrival in the beer-building world. He crafted a beer so complex, so contradictory, and so delicate that it was decided that it could only be released for very special occasions. This was 30 years ago. Let's flash-forward to today, more precisely, mid-January, at the Oread Hotel, the new monster resort/restaurant/high society hob nobbing hub on the hill. Boulevard makes their announcement and officially releases their newest collaborative effort: Jean-Marie Rock's Imperial Pilsner. At the Oread, you can purchase a bottle for $18.00. We've got 'em for $11.49. If you can at all afford it, please taste this piece of world brewing history.

TEMPRA TANTRUM

Spanish Wines

If you've been paying attention to our wines, you may have noticed that there has been a rather obvious trend of Spanish wines starting to build a larger canon in our collection. While it may be true that Spanish wines are trendy, there are a number of them that have made important statements with regards to complementing a meal. The Tempra Tantrum brand has a unique approach to building their wines, as they have taken their classic tempranillo and blended it with four different tasty reds that each satisfy different flavor palettes. For the dry red fans, they have tempranillo merlot and tempranillo cabernet (both perfect with steak or roast). For the sweeter red sippers, the tempranillo garnacha or tempranillo shiraz goes well with dark chocolate or rasperry dessert dishes. Keep in mind, you don't always have to pair your wine with food. One thing I like to pair Spanish wine with: tequila... WHAT??!! Yeah... That's right...

Stay thirsty, kids.

Welcome to the Future

It's 2010

...and I'd say that Stanley Kubrick was full of crap, dude. No Space Odyssey here, man! WTF?

Awesome Deals, Yo

So, you didn't hear it here, but I heard on the street that there's awesome deals down at Harper Corner. Seriously, didn't you hear? They've got, like, 18 packs of Coors Light 16-oz beers on sale, for like, $14.99! I'm not lying, man. Listen to this. I heard that tomorrow, like January 8th, right? Well, they're supposed to be getting some of that Lost Coast Winterbraun that has been cellared for a year at the warehouse, but they're selling it for cheap... Seriously, like... Really... Cheap... Also, they've got wicked sales on Buttershots, Jagermeister, Weller's Special Reserve, and a brand new cordial from right here in the states that calls itself a Nordic Libation. Let me put it this way, if Goldschlager and Rumple Minze were to have a baby, the lovechild would called ULLR (you-ler) and woul sell for around $2.29 for a 50 mL bottle. It's delicious. Let me tell you something, here, friends. If you mix all of these things together in equal protions, you may have the perfect way to forget that it's 6 frickin' degrees outside.

Tonight

I'm drinking the Leinenkugel's 1888 Bock, and let me tell you, I dig it. Leinenkugel's Brewery in Chippewa Falls, WI, reminds me of Goose Island: a good fan base, a wizened heritage, and a fine product line. The 1888 bock pours as a brown filtered beer, similar to Newcastle, maybe just a tint lighter. The mouth-feel of this simply-crafted beer is caramely, light, and slightly sweet; very distinct. This beer seems to be a hybrid beer,like a beer from the future, moreso than one from the past. If you've been drinking Budweiser and Busch for mostof your life, then this may be the beer that starts your journey off the beaten path. For my girlfriend, Joni, I bought a Lawrence favorite, Relax Riesling. This is a light, crisp, apple-y wine that screams for a cheese plate loaded with brie and gouda. Tonight, I've paired the Riesling with Yummy's Sun Dried Tomato Lebaneh and a Wheatfield's baguette sliced into wafer-thin crustini. Schmitt-Sohnne winery has a number of wines, such as Superstition, Kuhl (and also the "Way" Kuhl), and their hottest creation, Anything Goes (which, allegedly, goes with -- you guessed it -- anything), but the Relax series certainly has earned its place in the Book of Most Enjoyable Wines, if such a book exists.

Keep On Keepin' On

It's cold out there, friends. Really cold. In fact, I heard a customer tell me that it was going to be cold tomorrow, and I asked him how he would know what really cold was, you know what he said? He said, "I live in Alaska." I didn't really have anything to say after that. The man knows what cold is. I guess what I'm really trying to tell you is stay warm, out there, friends. And, of course...

Stay thirsty, my friends.

Customer Request

Seasons greetings, out there, friends!

We are now at that time of the year when things are getting very tight, particularly in the pocketbook-area. In addition, I have noted that there have been several requests for more knowledge on beer crafting and how one might even -- gasp! -- brew up a batch of one's own hand crafted beverage. To satisfy both of these customer requests, I have included here some helpful information that can get you on your way to brewing your own beer, no matter what level of brewer you may be.

Where do I go??

In Lawrence, there are, regrettably, no stores that cater to the home brewer. This leaves only the online market with which one may acquire the proper equipment and ingredients. However, there are a few places nearby (in Olathe and Shawnee), where you should be able to talk to someone face-to-face and get some hands-on help with home brewing:

Homebrew Pro Shoppe

2061 E Santa Fe

Olathe, KS

Bacchus & Barleycorn

6633 Nieman Rd

Shawnee, KS

What about online??

Of course, living in Lawrence, that are no home brew shops, which leaves only the ability to use the wonders of technology to get things. Listed here are some of the best websites you can use to learn more about how to brew beer at home:

www.howtobrew.com This website teaches you how to... BREW... Convenient like that, eh?

www.northernbrewer.com may be the best website to use, according to my resources. This website has a wide variety of products, from the advanced high-end home brewers all the way down to starter kits made for people who just want to give it a try. This website also has a pretty good deal for shipping, as $7.99 ships anything you want, no matter whether you're looking for a bottle-capper or a 20-gallon kettle.

www.williamsbrewing.com and www.morebeer.com are other websites website that cater to the home brewer, offering cutting edge recipes, new product info, and methods for brewing in your bathrobe.

How is that possible?

That Lawrence doesn't have any home brew stores? I don't have an answer to that one, chief. Maybe someone right now sees this blog and realizes that we really need one. The market for home brewers is growing just like the craft beer market has for the last 20 years, and it's no surprise. America was founded on hooch, kids. In the cramped basement speakeasy whiskey stills was where the first American revolutionaries met to overthrow British Rule. After all, even Sam Adams made beer. He also lit the tower lanterns when Paul Revere rode to inform the American revolutionary army: one if by land, two if by sea. If that's not some founding father folklore, I don't know what is. Lawrence does not have a home brew store, but, as all revolutionaries may already know, there is a guild. Click on the link to pay them a visit. Home brew is a lot closer to home than you might think.

Now, whether you're a hard-core seasoned veteran or a 21-year-old rookie, home brewing is a great way to test your mettle, to celebrate your freedom, and to actively participate in American history. As always, please be safe out there this holiday season, and stay thirsty, my friends.

Ho Ho Ho, bitches.

If this is your first visit to the Harper Corner News, then WELCOME. If not, then let's just drop the formalities and get to it, shall we?

BEER

O'Fallon's Cherry Chocolate Beer

O'Fallon's Brewery

St. Louis, MO

I don't know whether this is the first you've heard about this blissfully crafted beer, but I must insist that this is worth a try. Now, I know that there are still some classicists out there. I know who you are. I recognize you, from your resolute stroll towards the section with which you're most familiar to your product and price memorization, plus tax. Mr. Half-a-pint-of-Barton-vodka, good to see you. Oh, hello, Ms. Thirty-Pack-of-Busch, how's the renovation coming? But no one... NO ONE should think that they would not completely love this beer. If you can't find it in stock at Harper Corner, then find it somewhere. Oh, and don't forget the whipped cream.

Hop Rod Rye

Bear Republic Brewery

Healdsburg, CA

Rumor has it that the guys that started this brewery went to college with the same guys that started Sierra Nevada Brewery. Whatever the reason, they have got a serious product, here. The Hop Rod Rye ale has a rich, driven flavor that screams and rattles like a race track. Deep roasty rye flavor slams headfirst at no less than 55 mph into a bright citrus that rounds into a caramel undertone, and, at 22 ounces of oak, it creates a heavy, intimidating brew worthy of only the most serious beer drinker. People talk about a meal in a bottle, and that would be this. Perfect for the holidays, this beer reminds me most of chestnuts roasted on an open fire.

LIQUOR

Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

If you know the story of Sailor Jerry, then I won't bore you. My only statement I have to say is this. The Sailor answers to no man. He has no fleet of ships at his command, like the notorious Admiral Nelson. He has no crew to order about, like the cantankerous Captain Morgan. He is his own man. He is the Sailor! And here's how I like to enjoy him around the holidays:

Hot Buttered Rum

1 generous T brown sugar

1 cinnamon stick

Lemon Peel

6 whole cloves

boiling water

2-3 oz. Sailor Jerry

pat of Butter

Grated Nutmeg

Rinse a large glass with boiling water (dump out!), then add brown sugar, and a lemon peel studded with cloves. Pour in a little boiling water just until the sugar dissolves. Add rum, then fill to rim with boiling water. Stir, then place pat of butter on top. Sprinkle with grated nutmeg, then drink... Then drink again... Then drink a little bit more.

>>Now, I have to add, here, that the recipe for Hot Buttered Rum swears that you should never, under no circumstances, use a spiced rum for this recipe. I beg of you all to differ.<<

Old Charter Whiskey

Aged 8 years, this whiskey has the oomph to warm a body up on a cold snowy night (like tonight!), but also has the price of Jim Beam, a whiskey bottled in only half the time. This whiskey is smooth, it is genuine. It's the working man's whiskey. Old Charter is not a new player on the field, no. He is a seasoned pro, long-established in the industry for his remarkable ability to make the perfect holiday beverage:

The Hot Toddy

2-3 oz. Old Charter (Or other hard liquor, your choice)

1 oz. sugar syrup, or to taste

4 whole cloves

Generous pinch cinnamon

Lemon slice

Boiling water

Mix all ingredients in a mug. Let the cloves steep a few seconds, then top with grated nutmeg and call your neighbors. If they are fortunate enough to even witness what you are enjoying, they will then proceed to tell you how awesome you are. You can then ask them for a favor, if you want. If they agree to the favor, it is proper etiquette to then offer them a taste.

I hope that these reviews and suggestions give you all something to think about for the holidays. With snow on the ground, it's a great time to wall off the world, play hookie, and treat yourself to a hot toasty holiday beverage. We'll see you around the store, but until then...

Stay thirsty, my friends.

Bird Day

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving is that time of year that reminds us to be... well, thankful, I guess... It also is a time of transition: Riesling turns into mead, Octoberfest into winter brew, and the rambunctious Sailor Jerry snuggles willingly into the arms of hot butter and brown sugar. For the holidays this year, I plan on posting some of my favorite drink recipes up for the public to try. For the time being, I feel it necessary to pass on a few product highlights. Indeed, things have been busy at the Corner.

Mike's Hard Apple Cider

Usually, I don't consider sweetened malt beverages to be worth much attention. However, Mike's Hard Lemonade, a summertime favorite, has now come out with their seasonal winter beverage: Apple Cider. This is not only a poignant answer to other exclusively cider companies like Woodchuck or Hornsby's, it uses a distinctly winter flavor palette: deeply animated with subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Now, this tasty carbonated beer alternative not only serves as a great way to quench the thirst after a hard day of hauling 30 packs, it can be heated in the microwave. That's right. Pour your Mike's Cider into a glass and pop it into the microwave for a hot and toasty holiday treat sure to ease the most abrasive holiday blues.

Chaucer's Mead

Soquel, CA

We sell this mead year-round, but it is known by and large as the standard by which all other meads are measured. I've had mead from all over, and this seems to be the best by my liking. For those who are unaware, mead is a traditional holiday beverage used primarily by Northern Europeans, common in England, Sweden, and Switzerland. It is made from carefully fermented honey that is combined with things like orange rinds, lemon peels, and cinnamon sticks, and tastes very sweet with hints of floral notes that vary, depending on the flowers that the bees used to make the honey. Hot or cold, mead is the holidays in a cup.

Samuel Adams Winter Lager

If you've been paying attention to the news, you may have noticed that Sam Adams has now made a beer that rings in at around $150 a bottle. This beer is sold in a copper and ceramic bottle that replicates a brewing pot, takes around 12 years to create, and clocks in at around 27% alcohol. Now, I like Sam Adams beer. Like. In fact, I'm happy drinking their Winter Lager a few times every year it's in season, and that keeps me happy with the product, in general. The winter ale is crisp, not too hoppy, and not over-the-top on the cinnamon and nutmeg. Orange peel and coriander work their magic in this bold broth that, for some reason, makes me think of a very comfy sweater.

Sam Smith's Winter Welcome

Wow. This is good. Probably my favorite Winter Brew I've tried, so far. This beer is bold, unapologetically nutty, and full of English grit. Think Newcastle, times ten. You might find Sam Smith's to be an intimidating purchase, and there's a good reason for that. This stuff is packed with character; an old leather football helmet or baseball glove grooved with familiar fingerprints, the beer washes the palette in deep nutty caramel flavors saturated with malty hops. If you haven't tried this, do yourself a favor and pick one up. After all, at a mere $3.99 for a wine bottle full of world class beer, it sure beats $150.00.

I hope that this message finds everyone doing well, and feel free to swing by to give any of these suggestions a try. As always, stay thirsty, my friends.

Been far too long

The store will be seeing a few changes coming up in the next few weeks, mostly due to events that have taken place within the last week. So without further ado, I shall now attempt to catch all up to speed with the details of our attendance of the Glazer's annual beverage tasting last Monday.

BEER!!

We've got some new Octoberfests, of course, for the approaching fall months. So far, I've had the opportunity to taste three Octoberfest beers for the first time, one of which stood out far and above as the superior product.

Leinenkugel's Oktoberfest, Chippewa Falls, WI

Very clean and light tasting for an Octoberfest, this beer has sharp citrus notes that accent the floral notes of Cascade hops. I found this to be very drinkable, but not much "oomf" to it.

Samuel Adams' Ocktoberfest, Boston, MA

A bit darker and hoppier than its Wisconsin sister, this Octoberfest seems to be the brother. More of a bite to the hops flavor leaves less need to rely on a citrus backbone, as many Belgian ales do. This beer stood well on its own, though the depth of flavor wasn't as well- developed as I'd prefer.

New Belgium Hoptober, Ft. Collins, CO

When I glimpsed the ingredient list to this carefully crafted Colorado beer, I admit I balked. Five different hop varietals mashed together with wheat and rye sounds like it's going to be more like an IPA or Imperial style beverage, but this couldn't be farther from the truth. The complex hops flavors blend together nicely, creating a deep, rich caramel flavor that saturates the palette. This is what October should taste like, friends. Get some before it's gone.

WINE!!

Luna Freakout! White wine blend

Luna vineyards had a pinot grigio that we tasted just before the vendor broke out this amazing little number, Freakout!, worth every penny of the $12 bottle cost. Lots of character, the wine has subtle oak notes that give way to a well-rounded buttery kind of flavor reminiscent of a riesling or gewurstraminer. A very well-built wine, I could see this wine satisfying a variety of wine drinkers.

Argento Malbec, Argentina

This distinct Malbec had the tender gamy notes that define the Malbec flavor. Very big flavors pop out of the first sip of this classy red, notes of blueberries peeking through the many layers of rich dark chocolate. This red is would serve as a perfect aperatif; something to get the juices going for a great steak dinner or beef stew after a long day's harvest.

Adelsheim Vineyards, Oregon, Pinot Noir

Oregon has been known to be a hot commodity in the West for a good pinot noir. The only trouble is that very few Oregon wines make it this far east. Adelsheim Vineyards had a stand at the tasting, the first time the state's wines made it to the Great Plains, and you should definitely expect to see some serious pinot action in the near future at Harper Corner. This pinot is unbelievably high quality, notes of melon and berries married harmoniously in a wine that barely leans toward the sweet side of the scales. Good for dessert, good with dinner... Heck, it's good with breakfast.

LIQUOR

360 Cola Vodka, 360 Dutch Chocolate Vodka

When I first saw that 360 had a display of Dutch Chocolate vodka, I had to try it out. At 70 proof, this vodka has deep rich chocolate flavor that stops barely short of Holy Crap. But then I saw the true crown jewel: Cola flavored vodka. It seems that the only thing this little cocktail is missing is the bubbles. Not boozy, not subtle, this pure cola flavor outperforms any mass marketed cola in creation. I would compare it only to independent craft companies like Jones soda or Big Sky, some organic soda that focuses on extracting the pure citrus-like cola root flavor. This stuff is dangerous. Expect to see it on shelves soon.

New Amsterdam Gin

New Amsterdam has been around for some time, but this was the first time I had ever gotten the chance to try it out. Wow. They mixed a cocktail with gin, triplesec, and pineapple juice, something that I don't even think has a legitimate bartending name. New Amsterdam strips away the boozy qualities typical of gin leaving clean caper flavor perfect for mixing cocktails. I may have even found a new idea for making the perfect bloody mary (that's right, we use gin around here).

And that's about it for me today. I hope that these tidbits can help you find whatever it is that you'll most enjoy with your harvest dinners. Keep an eye out for the new products on our shelves, and until next time, Drink up!!

Happy Labor Day!!

Happy Labor Day to all you working stiffs, out there. I hope that the weekend has treated you all well, and pray that this message finds you all smoking various meats over large open barbecue pits. Enjoy this day that the government has kindly set aside for the working men and women who keep this country going, whatever it is that you do.

If you are looking for a good deal this fine Labor Day, swing by Harper Corner Liquor and pick up one of our last two cases of Michelob Wheat Sampler packs. They are 12 packs of bottles in 4 different wheaty flavors: Hop Hound Amber, Michelob Hefe Weizen, Shock Top Belgian White, and Michelob's Honey Wheat that rivals JW Dundee's Honey brown. At only $10.99 for the whole 12 pack, you have to admit that it is a deal priced just right for the holiday.

Keep safe out there, and remember: DON'T PUT LIGHTER FLUID IN THE SMOKER!!

College Colors Controversy

If anyone's been paying attention to the press lately, you've probably noticed that the Lawrence Journal-World has published an article sending up the new Anheuser-Busch marketing ploy to sell college-themed cases of beer. The new 24-packs of Bud Light include the local college colors decorating each can with limited-edition racing stripes allowing fans to celebrate their favorite college teams while enjoying their favorite brew.

The University of Kansas has been cited as having the opinion that the new college-themed can design supports underage drinking and advertises, in particular, to those under the age of 21.

Now, I understand why the university thinks that team colors on beer cans encourage team fans to drink more. However, keep in mind that we are in a world that has soda-pop style malt beverages like Mike's Hard Lemonade, Sparks, Joose, and wine coolers. The universities that threaten to sue Anheuser-Busch over the use of team colors run the risk of biting off more than they can chew. I figure that if soda companies don't have a case to sue malt beverage companies for creating similar sweet beverages containing alcohol, then universities should not be allowed to do so, either. Budweiser could make their beer in hot pink cans, and universities wouldn't care. It's only when the crimson and blue is donned on the cans that KU becomes concerned with underage drinking.

Honestly, doesn't it seem that KU is trying to claim ownership of the color combination of Red and Blue? What about the other colleges that have red and blue as their school colors? What about my high school that I graduated from? Seaman High School, in Topeka, KS, has red and blue as the school colors, yet no one from USD 345 is concerned with Budweiser's marketing strategy. Further, what about schools that already have the color scheme of blue and white (the standard colors on a Bud Light can)? Do they have the same right to sue?

As you can see, this issue is still a pretty hot topic in the town of Lawrence. I will keep the public informed as far as what is going on as I hear details. Until then, feel free to swing by and pick up your own limited edition 24 pack of Bud Light clad in your favorite school colors: crimson and blue.

Our Lager, which art in taverns...

If you're keeping score at home, we've covered a trio of wines from Spain (tempranillo) and Australia (shiraz-grenache and shiraz-cab. sauv.). On Sunday, we also had a tasting of beers.

Now, I don't know if everyone out there is as much of a beer fan as I am. I am a fan of beer: lagers, pilsners, hefe-weizens, dunkels, porters, stouts, and ales of all pales. Now, I must admit that when it comes to beer, I have no shortage on words, so I will attempt to keep my notorious long-winded-ness to a minimum. First, let me go over the beers we tried on Sunday's tasting.

Boulevard Pilsner
100% malt

NOTE: So from what I understand, Anheuser-Busch, Miller, and Michelob have all been making specialty beers lately in an effort to get a little bit of the craft beer business. With the cropping up of local breweries, the big beer companies realized that there is a growing market of discerning beer drinkers. Wanting a slice of the pie, they started crafting specialty beers like Landshark, American Ale, Shock Top, and Michelob's wheat series.

Boulevard Brewery out of Kansas City, founded in 1989, has been making moves to capitalize on their growth from the popularity of their dynamite Pale Ale, an exceptional Double Wide IPA (served in a champagne bottle), and their claim to fame, Boulevard Wheat. In response to encroaching businesses, Boulevard took a tip from the big boys by releasing a 100% malt beverage that sells right along side Budweiser and Coors... at the exact same price. If this story is not enough to pique your curiosity about this tasty toasty pils, let me assure you that this beer has subtle malt notes that smooth out to caramel, with character that keeps the flavors clean and very drinkable. All in all, I was impressed with the flavor of this beer, especially given the price.

Schlafly's Summer Beer
Lager

This crisp refreshing Summer beer comes from a brewery more noted for their stouts than their lagers, but the flavors are dead on, here. This beer is very clean, not too lemony, and surprisingly drinkable. Very few bottled beers remind me of the summer I spent drinking strip-n-go-naked's in Madison, WI, with my sister, and this beer did just that. Only this time, I didn't get hammered and pass out in Rodney's back yard. This beer doesn't have the kick that a lot of summer drinks have, which makes it ideal for cooling off after weeding, watering, and repotting the herbs on my balcony -- again.

And that's it! We now have 3 red wines and 2 beers sampled, so far. Make sure to check back in once every now and then to see what to try next. And, of course, if you have anything you want to share, feel free to stop by at Harper Corner Liquor Store.

And away we go...

I'm offering this blog as I experience the world of wines and liquors in the liquor store of my employment: Harper Corner Liquor store, in Lawrence, KS, located at the corner of 23rd Street and Harper. I don't know if anyone will find this resource helpful, but I will attempt to offer tidbits of information to the public at large on food and beverage pairings, local events that are scheduled, and other local news that affects the daily goings-on at Harper Corner, everyone's favorite neighborhood booze source.

TASTINGS
I would recommend having tastings of different wines and beverages with the ones who eat meals with you. These will be the people for whom you cook; your family, friends, or a special somebody. These are the people who will be eating and enjoying beverages with you, so knowing what rings their bells is good to keep in mind when pairing. We regularly have tastings at Harper Corner (sadly, only employees are allowed to attend), and learn the newest cutting edge wines and spirits emerging into the market. With that being said, don't hesitate to ask your friendly booze hound for an outsider's perspective, as well. We do, after all, have our fingers on the pulse of the booze nation. For an example, I will present the 3 wines and 2 beers we sampled at last night's meeting:

PENFOLD'S KOONUNGA HILLS: Australia
shiraz cabernet sauvignon
This wine is very well balanced, a deep rich red wine with moderately pointed dryness. I could see this going well with any beef dish or (perfect for the glorious weather we've been having) barbecue. Sweet berries start this wine off, developing smoothly with the tannins into a well rounded flavor that hits the whole tongue all at once. Overall, this was my favorite.

EGUREN: Spain
tempranillo
Spanish wines are pretty hot right now, and the price is right for this clean and dry red wine from Spain. Traditionally very well balanced, tempranillo can be heavy and full, or, as in this case, clean and precise. The clean grape flavor hits right on the tip with a distinct tartness while the tannins do their work on the sides and back of the tongue. Not as spicy as other tempranillos, but at around $8 a bottle, a very good deal.

ASS KISSER: Australia
fine red wine
I know, I know... It's a funny name. It is. Clever, even. It's wines like this that sell well without having the need for substance. After sampling this shiraz-grenache blend, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised. I expected something like Mad Housewife or Bitch: a wine full of character, but not much real distinction. I was surprised. This sweet red wine had very fruity undertones, heavy berry flavors, black and red currant, and a faint dryness that didn't overdevelop so far as to ruin the sweetness. The combination is impressive, and would pair with any table setting, particularly as a dessert wine.

It appears I am needed at the shop. So I will have to continue about the beers some other time. I hope these reviews find you doing well, and I hope that they aid you in making the best pairings of foods with beverages. Until then, drink up.