june state beer challenge - day 22

June 21, we all know this as the Summer Solstice, otherwise known as the first day of summer. Here in Texas, that just might as well mean we are now officially entering into the season of hell. It's an understatement to say that it gets hot down here, and everyone knows it. Five months of miserable, hot, sticky weather. The instant you walk outside your face perspires into an unrecognizable mess. During the summer in Texas, there is no ideal 'look.' Everyone looks the same...sweaty. It's kind of a joke, but seriously, it really sucks at times.

Thank God there's beer to cool us down and relax us!

Last night, I cracked open a bottle of Real Ale's Sisyphus, their 2010 version. Real Ale Sisyphus is a Barleywine style, which is similar to an Old Ale, just stronger and hoppier. If you're familiar with Greek mythology, you know the name Sisyphus. The story is that of an old king who was punished, and his punishment was to roll a large boulder up a hill. The catch: every time he pushed the boulder up, it rolled back down and he'd have to start all over...for eternity (sweet life).

I only found it appropriate to drink this beer since Texas summers seem to endure for an eternity. Just when we think it's gone, another triple digit humid non-rainy day hits. Oh well, like I said before, thank God there's beer to bring us back. Not only that, but I happen to love Sisyphus...er, the beer I mean. It's a lot maltier than the Barleywines I'm used to, but it still has a damn good hop presence.

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june state beer challenge - day 21

I'm happy to report that I am still holding strong during the June State Beer Challenge. This past weekend, Meggie and I went to Wimberley, TX for a good friend's wedding held at the Red Corral Ranch. Weddings are usually a challenge when it comes to getting craft beer. However, this wedding happened to be on a beautiful ranch where outside beer was welcome. The rehearsal dinner offered Real Ale's Fireman's #4, one of the more popular local options. This was a perfect beer for the rehearsal dinner, as it's a very drinkable beer for the hot outdoors. During the day on Saturday (before the wedding), many of us sat poolside. Southern Star (Blonde Bombshell and Pine Belt Pale Ale) was a favorite for me during this time, and they come in cans so it's a pool friendly beer. And for those of you who are wondering, of course I shared the wealth. Check out the cute cottage we got to stay in, and the basket of homemade goodies we got.

Last night was movie night, so I cracked open a Ranger Creek La Bestia Aimable. It's one of the easiest beers to drink, as it's very smooth and slightly tart and sweet. A lot of honey comes through on the nose, so it's a pleasant beer to sip throughout the night. At 9.4% abv, it's very surprising at how smooth it is and how little alcohol pungency is present. I highly recommend this one if you ever get a chance to try it.

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