Like most people, I'm spending my time these days cooking appetizer after appetizer to bring to various family functions. I would say it's tedious and stressful, but I actually like to cook. I like presenting my families with things I've made with my own hands (even if they're not entirely of my own design) and seeing their faces light up with taste pleasure. Tonight I'm bringing several snacks to Chris' family party, and tomorrow I'll bring a couple different items to my own family's dinner.
Usually when we see Chris' family, it ends up being a Sunday and we've, more often than not, had a pretty rough morning. My future mother-in-law likes to drink wine (who wouldn't?) and always offers me some, and I always decline. Not tonight, though. Hell no. When she asks to fill my glass I will say, "Yes, ma'am, and keep it coming," because damn it, it's Christmas. Jesus would want me to drink, I think. I mean, didn't he enjoy a glass or two with his bros? Come on. And tomorrow, when I find myself being pushed to the bitter end of my tolerance for...well, everything...will I have some wine? You bet I will. All of it. Having taken Wednesday off from work, I plan on enjoying Christmas the way it was meant to be enjoyed: while saying crazy shit to your family and not remembering any of it.
Ahh, holidays. I really have a nice, warm feeling about this.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
thirsty for dinner
This is one of those wastes of a day in which I find myself constantly hungry and with no real taste for anything. Luckily, my office decided to have a Christmas potluck today, and so any need my stomach or head could possibly come up with was met. How much food could seven people cram into their faces in eight hours? Oh, you'd be surprised. Or sickened. Because of this, I'm skipping dinner and rounding out the day with a beer. That makes sense, right?
On tonight's menu: Grand Teton Brewing Company's Sweetgrass American Pale Ale. Brassy in color, which I always get excited about, and a little cloudy, but not full of sediment or anything. Very clean, very crisp, with a great dry finish. RateBeer.com gave it an 84 (which is freaking good, if you don't know) and it won a gold medal in the APA category of the Great American Beer Festival. Not bad. Oh, and 6% ABV is pretty comfortable for a weeknight, you know?
I've never been super skilled at pairing food with beer, to be honest, so it's good that I'm drinking dinner tonight. I don't know if my palate is just that unrefined, but the onslaught of all those calories is just too much. In any case, this APA is pretty satisfying -- just as satisfying as a meal, perhaps. This time. Tomorrow is work leftovers (I don't think we even touched the pasta, and I don't know why we even had it with two pies, a cake, fudge, brownies, pigs in a blanket, pierogies, buffalo chicken dip, turkey dip, two cheese balls and...other stuff) so we're all set for a while.
So while the cats are silently judging me from under the Christmas tree for being so full and happy (hah! You only get to eat twice a day! Suck on that!), I'm going to go get another APA from the fridge and watch some "Happy Endings." You're welcome for the image.
On tonight's menu: Grand Teton Brewing Company's Sweetgrass American Pale Ale. Brassy in color, which I always get excited about, and a little cloudy, but not full of sediment or anything. Very clean, very crisp, with a great dry finish. RateBeer.com gave it an 84 (which is freaking good, if you don't know) and it won a gold medal in the APA category of the Great American Beer Festival. Not bad. Oh, and 6% ABV is pretty comfortable for a weeknight, you know?
I've never been super skilled at pairing food with beer, to be honest, so it's good that I'm drinking dinner tonight. I don't know if my palate is just that unrefined, but the onslaught of all those calories is just too much. In any case, this APA is pretty satisfying -- just as satisfying as a meal, perhaps. This time. Tomorrow is work leftovers (I don't think we even touched the pasta, and I don't know why we even had it with two pies, a cake, fudge, brownies, pigs in a blanket, pierogies, buffalo chicken dip, turkey dip, two cheese balls and...other stuff) so we're all set for a while.
So while the cats are silently judging me from under the Christmas tree for being so full and happy (hah! You only get to eat twice a day! Suck on that!), I'm going to go get another APA from the fridge and watch some "Happy Endings." You're welcome for the image.
Monday, December 17, 2012
a completely ridiculously long time ago...
...I decided to start a blog. And then I never wrote in it. So here we are, nearly two years later, and I am finally making myself accountable (well, my darling fiance has reminded me that I wanted to start a blog, because, come on, I went to five years of school for journalism for something, right? And I made him purchase a domain name and then keep paying for it for something, right?) and putting pen to paper. Fingers to keys, that is. In any case, I'm here, we're here, and I am accountable now.
It's been almost three years since the darling fiance (Chris, that's his name -- good; now I don't have to keep writing "darling fiance") and I bought our first house and promptly filled it with beer and wine. And cats. Well, just the two cats -- but a LOT of beer and wine. I had the idea that I'd be a star beer writer, so I took some tasting classes and spent a lot of money going to tap houses and microbreweries, and I learned something: while I actually am pretty damn good at this beer thing, my terrible allergies prevent me from fully tasting beer's notes and nuances. So that was out. And the blog sort of...died.
The interim hasn't been entirely without enlightenment, however. I know now that 60-year-old plaster walls need special hooks, cats will rip up ANY surface they get their godless claws on, cable TV is not all that necessary, and a glass of wine or a pint of beer after dinner is just as satisfying as working out. Most of the time.
So while I might not be able to fully realize my dreams of becoming Detroit's next greatest beer columnist, I can still regale the interwebs with my own versions of life lessons. I mean, seriously, don't I sound trustworthy?
It's been almost three years since the darling fiance (Chris, that's his name -- good; now I don't have to keep writing "darling fiance") and I bought our first house and promptly filled it with beer and wine. And cats. Well, just the two cats -- but a LOT of beer and wine. I had the idea that I'd be a star beer writer, so I took some tasting classes and spent a lot of money going to tap houses and microbreweries, and I learned something: while I actually am pretty damn good at this beer thing, my terrible allergies prevent me from fully tasting beer's notes and nuances. So that was out. And the blog sort of...died.
The interim hasn't been entirely without enlightenment, however. I know now that 60-year-old plaster walls need special hooks, cats will rip up ANY surface they get their godless claws on, cable TV is not all that necessary, and a glass of wine or a pint of beer after dinner is just as satisfying as working out. Most of the time.
So while I might not be able to fully realize my dreams of becoming Detroit's next greatest beer columnist, I can still regale the interwebs with my own versions of life lessons. I mean, seriously, don't I sound trustworthy?
Saturday, December 15, 2012
How Ferndale Got 8 Degrees Cooler
As an adult, going into candy stores, or even toy stores, is a bit of a...well, it’s usually pretty weird. Thank goodness for 8 Degrees Plato Beer Company.
Rich wood floors and shelves stocked with homemade salsa and jam, antique and vintage bar collectibles, meats and cheeses greet the customer upon entering, all illuminated by soft yellow lighting and backed by soft jazz music. A large picture window, at this time of year festooned with harvest-time flowers and the occasional pumpkin, faces 9 Mile in the downtown Ferndale business corridor.
Oh, and there’s beer. Lots and lots of beer.
More than 270 labels, in fact! Owner and proprietor Tim Costello lives his dream every day, surrounded by sparkling little soldiers of all shapes and colors. Since he left his former life -- 25 years as a traveling stand-up comedian -- Costello has found his new muse, and it comes out of brown, green and (sometimes) clear bottles. I share his muse, happily, frequently, and with relish.
“If you want a break down, we’re Michigan beers first, craft beers second, and imports last,” said Costello.
And Michigan beers have they. I marveled at the easily dozens of varieties of Dark Horse, Arbor Brewing, Atwater Block, Bell’s and Shorts, among others. Impressive doesn’t even begin to describe the place. Aside from those beers of my beloved home state, my eyes feasted upon brews I’d never even seen before, from California to Colorado, Canada to Holland. A regular globe-trotting beerventure.
The plan for 8 Degrees Plato -- named in regard to the measuring of density of beer wort during the brewing process -- is to change the face of the craft and local beer community. By opening his store on the edge of the downtown Ferndale business district, Costello and company have given the beer community more variety, more opportunity and more availability. I mean, it’s all about location, right?
“We want to be involved,” he said. “We want to uphold the standard that people expect of a Ferndale business. You’re going to come here to get your beer -- we’re a destination.”
Costello said people tend to spend anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes in the store, browsing and learning, even on their first visit. Though he claims to be no beer expert, he’s always willing to offer tips on foods to pair with your beer purchase and even recommendations for the beer newcomers. He has his favorites, sure, but wants his customers to explore their own interests and find what makes their palates sing.
“I guess you could say my favorite Michigan beer is...all of them,” he said.
By the end of the week, 8 Degree’s shelves are bursting with six packs and lined nearly three-to-four deep with single bottles.
And -- oh! Look! I can build my own six-pack! Well this is just some kind of night, isn’t it? Let’s get to the beer.
Round 1: Wolverine Dark Lager
Wolverine State Brewing’s web site asked me if I were afraid of the dark, and until now, I’d have had to say no. But after sipping this chocolatey, smooth, rich brew, I’d have to say...no, I’m still not afraid of the dark. The dark is delicious. This complex lager, rife with notes of smooth malts and hints of caramel, is fabulous with food or just on its own. At 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), it’s light enough to qualify as a session beer, but heavy enough to end your night relatively early. It was the first I’d seen of this beer (and brewery), but I implore you, my beer friends: if you see this bottle in a store, buy it and thank me. I’m on Facebook.
Round 2: Arbor Brewing Company Jackhammer Old Ale
This is not a session beer! Hear me! This beer will get you drunk, and right quick. At 9% ABV the Jackhammer Old Ale is supremely aware of its alcohol presence, and it will let you know, too. Chocolate and caramel malts dance around a sweet, almost fruity body, with a swift kick in the hops at its finish. I love it. Despite all that, the Jackhammer isn’t exactly heavy, but it carries weight. Does that make sense? It doesn’t matter. I’m already getting a buzz on.
Right about now I should mention that these brews were enjoyed on my comfy couch, in cozy pajamas. It’s come to my attention, as I age, that drinking a lot of beer, while wearing real clothes, is just no longer physically doable. I need some room.
Round 3: Tommyknocker Hop Strike Black IPA
As it turns out, I have a...thing...for IPAs. I have a tendency to drink one immediately upon entering a bar or brewery, thereby ruining my taste buds for the rest of my evening. That being said, I’m pretty proud I was able to hold off on this one. It was worth it. Out of Colorado, Tommyknocker’s Black IPA is like a breath of deep, dank air. It has a fabulous, rich nose and a clean, deep color. A smooth and balanced hoppiness complements its 7% ABV, making this a thoroughly enjoyable beer.
Round 4: New Holland Dragon’s Milk Ale
This is where my train officially derailed. I don’t know if I just happened upon a flawed bottle, or if Dragon’s Milk is supposed to taste this way, but I did not enjoy this beer. A strong alcoholic smell, much like nail polish remover, was noticeable after the pour, and continued into tasting. I couldn’t even locate the deep vanilla tones that New Holland expected me to find, and was both frustrated and disappointed. A solid 10% ABV beer (with such a cool name) doesn’t come around quite that often, so maybe I’ll give this one another try some day.
Round 5 (it’s a good thing I’m at home): B Nektar Zombie Killer Cherry Cyser
Yes, I know it’s not technically a beer, but this lovely was too sweet to pass up. With a taste like cold, refreshing juice on a hot summer day, Zombie Killer gave me the energy I needed to fight the undead apocalypse. It is made with Michigan tart cherry juice, and has been a very limited -- and popular -- release from B Nektar. Sipping on this reminded me of the good old days when mead was mead, and zombies were shambling, mindless brain-eating machines. Ahh.
Opened on October 7, 8 Degrees Plato hosts beer tastings every Friday night, free of charge. Costello encourages patrons to friend his store on Facebook to keep up with the tasting schedule, as well as when new inventory is added. As a supporter of the downtown Ferndale development, I urge all my readers to check this place out. It’ll make your night (or two!) and will certainly make the night of its gracious and knowledgeable owner.
8 Degrees Plato Beer Company is located at 611 W. 9 Mile, and can be reached at (248) 808.6477.
Rich wood floors and shelves stocked with homemade salsa and jam, antique and vintage bar collectibles, meats and cheeses greet the customer upon entering, all illuminated by soft yellow lighting and backed by soft jazz music. A large picture window, at this time of year festooned with harvest-time flowers and the occasional pumpkin, faces 9 Mile in the downtown Ferndale business corridor.
Oh, and there’s beer. Lots and lots of beer.
More than 270 labels, in fact! Owner and proprietor Tim Costello lives his dream every day, surrounded by sparkling little soldiers of all shapes and colors. Since he left his former life -- 25 years as a traveling stand-up comedian -- Costello has found his new muse, and it comes out of brown, green and (sometimes) clear bottles. I share his muse, happily, frequently, and with relish.
“If you want a break down, we’re Michigan beers first, craft beers second, and imports last,” said Costello.
And Michigan beers have they. I marveled at the easily dozens of varieties of Dark Horse, Arbor Brewing, Atwater Block, Bell’s and Shorts, among others. Impressive doesn’t even begin to describe the place. Aside from those beers of my beloved home state, my eyes feasted upon brews I’d never even seen before, from California to Colorado, Canada to Holland. A regular globe-trotting beerventure.
The plan for 8 Degrees Plato -- named in regard to the measuring of density of beer wort during the brewing process -- is to change the face of the craft and local beer community. By opening his store on the edge of the downtown Ferndale business district, Costello and company have given the beer community more variety, more opportunity and more availability. I mean, it’s all about location, right?
“We want to be involved,” he said. “We want to uphold the standard that people expect of a Ferndale business. You’re going to come here to get your beer -- we’re a destination.”
Costello said people tend to spend anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes in the store, browsing and learning, even on their first visit. Though he claims to be no beer expert, he’s always willing to offer tips on foods to pair with your beer purchase and even recommendations for the beer newcomers. He has his favorites, sure, but wants his customers to explore their own interests and find what makes their palates sing.
“I guess you could say my favorite Michigan beer is...all of them,” he said.
By the end of the week, 8 Degree’s shelves are bursting with six packs and lined nearly three-to-four deep with single bottles.
And -- oh! Look! I can build my own six-pack! Well this is just some kind of night, isn’t it? Let’s get to the beer.
Round 1: Wolverine Dark Lager
Wolverine State Brewing’s web site asked me if I were afraid of the dark, and until now, I’d have had to say no. But after sipping this chocolatey, smooth, rich brew, I’d have to say...no, I’m still not afraid of the dark. The dark is delicious. This complex lager, rife with notes of smooth malts and hints of caramel, is fabulous with food or just on its own. At 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), it’s light enough to qualify as a session beer, but heavy enough to end your night relatively early. It was the first I’d seen of this beer (and brewery), but I implore you, my beer friends: if you see this bottle in a store, buy it and thank me. I’m on Facebook.
Round 2: Arbor Brewing Company Jackhammer Old Ale
This is not a session beer! Hear me! This beer will get you drunk, and right quick. At 9% ABV the Jackhammer Old Ale is supremely aware of its alcohol presence, and it will let you know, too. Chocolate and caramel malts dance around a sweet, almost fruity body, with a swift kick in the hops at its finish. I love it. Despite all that, the Jackhammer isn’t exactly heavy, but it carries weight. Does that make sense? It doesn’t matter. I’m already getting a buzz on.
Right about now I should mention that these brews were enjoyed on my comfy couch, in cozy pajamas. It’s come to my attention, as I age, that drinking a lot of beer, while wearing real clothes, is just no longer physically doable. I need some room.
Round 3: Tommyknocker Hop Strike Black IPA
As it turns out, I have a...thing...for IPAs. I have a tendency to drink one immediately upon entering a bar or brewery, thereby ruining my taste buds for the rest of my evening. That being said, I’m pretty proud I was able to hold off on this one. It was worth it. Out of Colorado, Tommyknocker’s Black IPA is like a breath of deep, dank air. It has a fabulous, rich nose and a clean, deep color. A smooth and balanced hoppiness complements its 7% ABV, making this a thoroughly enjoyable beer.
Round 4: New Holland Dragon’s Milk Ale
This is where my train officially derailed. I don’t know if I just happened upon a flawed bottle, or if Dragon’s Milk is supposed to taste this way, but I did not enjoy this beer. A strong alcoholic smell, much like nail polish remover, was noticeable after the pour, and continued into tasting. I couldn’t even locate the deep vanilla tones that New Holland expected me to find, and was both frustrated and disappointed. A solid 10% ABV beer (with such a cool name) doesn’t come around quite that often, so maybe I’ll give this one another try some day.
Round 5 (it’s a good thing I’m at home): B Nektar Zombie Killer Cherry Cyser
Yes, I know it’s not technically a beer, but this lovely was too sweet to pass up. With a taste like cold, refreshing juice on a hot summer day, Zombie Killer gave me the energy I needed to fight the undead apocalypse. It is made with Michigan tart cherry juice, and has been a very limited -- and popular -- release from B Nektar. Sipping on this reminded me of the good old days when mead was mead, and zombies were shambling, mindless brain-eating machines. Ahh.
Opened on October 7, 8 Degrees Plato hosts beer tastings every Friday night, free of charge. Costello encourages patrons to friend his store on Facebook to keep up with the tasting schedule, as well as when new inventory is added. As a supporter of the downtown Ferndale development, I urge all my readers to check this place out. It’ll make your night (or two!) and will certainly make the night of its gracious and knowledgeable owner.
8 Degrees Plato Beer Company is located at 611 W. 9 Mile, and can be reached at (248) 808.6477.
Detroit History Runs Deep at the Grand Trunk Pub
 |
| Michigan beer is wholly appreciated at this historic pub. |
The foundation of the building, on Woodward just south of Campus Martius, is pre-Civil War and the location itself has seen many changes since it became a part of downtown. Originally the Traub Bros. & Co. jewelry store, it was later a men’s clothing store and then the Grand Trunk Railway’s ticket office, in 1910. In 1935 the Metropole Hotel turned it into a bar, and it has remained a pub ever since.
Detroit legend has it that Harry Houdini owned a magic shop in the lower level of the same building, but that is currently unconfirmed.
The bar features 14 Michigan beers on tap, with dozens more in bottles, as well as the obvious standbys. Cycling out the taps every four weeks or so makes it practically a new pub each month, so I think I should take advantage of what’s here while I can.
Round One: North Peak Diabolical IPA.
A nice, rusty color and mild head are warmly deceiving, which any drinker will discover with the first sip of this beer. The taste is sharp and bitter, with a mild zest to its finish. In researching this beer I discovered that the brewery it is produced in, in Traverse City, has been around since 1899 but the building was, originally, known as Big Daylight Candy Factory. I can’t think of a cooler item to switch to, as products go, than from candy to beer.
It is at this time my new friend, assistant manager and head bartender David Gregory, informs me that perhaps the Diabolical IPA wasn’t the very best way I could begin a night of professional beer tasting, since it’s so strong and might desensitize my taste buds. Too late. I figure I might as well visit the opposite end of the beer spectrum, so it’s on to number two.
Round Two: Dark Horse Too Cream Stout.
Oh my. Pitch black and reeking of chocolate, this is just happiness in a glass. It is my belief that a stout is not a stout until its head is nearly as brown as its body, and this is just beautiful. Stout beers, and cream stouts especially, can range in ABV from low, like Guinness, to high, which I’d consider this one to be, at 8%. I’d say it’s become my new, current favorite, but I know there are a lot of beers in the…well, on tap, so I’d better explore my options.
Round Three: Short’s The Magician.
The Short’s Brewing Company’s website claims their Magician is “the eloquent, swift and skillful master who makes things happen,” but I’m just not feeling this one. A dark red London ale, the Magician is smooth, with almost a bourbon taste and mouthfeel that lasts all the way down. To be honest, I feel genuinely surprised each time I take a sip of this 6% ABV enigma. The aftertaste is quick, mild and a relief. I think I need a break after that one.
While the Grand Trunk is known for being a destination beer bar, it is also trying to make its mark with beer education. On Saturday, December 19 the pub will be holding its second Dinner Club outing, pairing different beers with four different courses, all served in the space adjoining the bar, which the pub recently purchased. Attendees can look forward to gourmet meals prepared and combined with beers designed to accentuate each dish’s flavors.
If a guy were looking to take his lady on a date that would be fun for both of them, I’d say he hit the jackpot with that dinner.
Round Four: Arcadia Nut Brown.
I thought I’d never met a brown ale I didn’t like, but the sharp initial taste of this one put me off immediately. Letting it sit, the smoothness and solid, malty flavors come through and make its finish pretty pleasant. I can’t say I discovered much “nuttiness” to this one, nor can I say I’ve found a new best brown ale friend, but at 5.6% ABV it packs a nice, easy punch and left me fairly satisfied.
Round Five: Arcadia Hop Rocket.
When researching the Grand Trunk Pub I came across this name and after checking out the label on Arcadia’s website, I knew I had to have it: a 9% ABV Imperial IPA with so much dry, hoppy flavor my tongue almost dried out in my mouth. I love that. It pours clear and orange, with a small head and sharp smell. It has a highly carbonated feel and texture, which adds interest. I’ll be coming back again for this one.
In addition to all the Grand Trunk has to offer — history, delicious beer and food, assistance in learning about new brews — it is also a Cheers Detroit Community Scrip Reserve Bank. Patrons can exchange U.S. currency for Scrip, or Scrip for U.S. currency. The bills are at par with the U.S. Dollar, and currently, there is $4,500 worth of Detroit Cheers in circulation. Motor City Brewing Works and the Park Bar, both downtown, are also Reserves and at least 30 Detroit businesses accept this form of currency.
Yes, that’s right, Detroit has its own money.
“The Grand Trunk is really event-driven, being so close to Campus Martius,” said Gregory. ”This is a way to promote local, downtown business.”
Usually, Cheers are purchased in $3 increments, which is perfect for a pint at a great downtown bar.
Round Six (seriously, this is a lot of beer): Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA.
For how high in ABV this beauty is — another 9% — I am surprised at how smooth its initial taste is. This is big, bold and easily hides its alcohol content in sweet hops and mild carbonation. Dangerous and exhausting.
Three hours after arriving at the Grand Trunk Pub and I’m in love. And a little buzzed. The prospect of the taps changing out soon is exciting, as is the upcoming Dinner Club, and I can’t help but feel proud of the city for housing such a gem for such a long time. With this much history packed into a little bar, it’s enough to warm the heart, even during a Detroit winter.
The Grand Trunk Pub is located at 612 Woodward Avenue, and can be reached at (313) 961-3043.
As published on Examiner.com
Keeping the spirit alive at Jacoby’s
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| The massive wall of beers and liquors behind Jacoby's historic, original bar. |
With its foundation laid in the early 1800s, Jacoby’s is all exposed brick and dark wood; the perfect environment for sampling a Belgian strong ale or German dunkel. There are over 100 beers to try on tap and in bottles, and the staff is trained to be as knowledgeable as possible. Which is helpful, especially for someone with no problem trying new beers.
Round one: Goose Island IPA.
India Pale Ales are no joke, so starting off with one is not for the faint of, well, taste, I guess. An alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.9% and a smooth, clear golden orange color are standard with this kind of beer. Its taste is dry, malty and with a long, hoppy finish that satisfies any IPA fan. One pint of this could start a nice little buzz going, but why stop there?
Round two: Rogue Dead Guy.
A personal favorite, Dead Guy is considered to be in the style of a German Maibock, which is just a variation on Bock, or dark, strong lager. This beer, weighing in at 6.5% ABV, pours a hazy, orange brown color with a hop smell to make any beer lover smile. It’s easily drinkable and refreshing, and could be a great way to end the night, but since this is for research, I think I’ll pace myself.
Looking over the menu, it’s clear that the bar’s roots are solidly German, with few changes made in the nearly 110 years it’s been serving food. According to Jacoby’s history, many of these dishes were created in the building’s spacious upstairs, which was once a law library and the apartment in which the original owners, Albert and Mina Jacoby, lived. The traditional German dishes are still served today (from Mina’s original recipes, no less), and the second floor also boasts an incredible feature: the original stained glass windows bearing the couple’s names.
Manager Shannon Miner has been with the bar for two and a half years, and considers Jacoby’s a comfort; someplace like Cheers, where “everybody knows your name. We really do — come in once, and you’re a regular,” she said.
That said, I think it’s time to flex some more beer muscles.
Rounds 2.5 and 3: Hobgoblin and Spaten Optimator.
With so many taps just staring back from behind the bar, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. No worries, though, I handle this problem any time by asking for a sample. Any beer aficionado cum bartender worth his (or her, in this case) salt will appreciate the patron’s need to try before buying, and provide a shot glass full of the selected brew.
Hobgoblin, at 5.2% ABV, is beautifully ruby-colored and smooth all the way down. Overall, it is bitter, with a fruity and hoppy character that is both surprising and pleasing. I only had a shot, but I know a future pint when I taste one.
My second sample (so gracious are the bartenders at Jacoby’s: I hemmed over this one for several minutes before settling), the Spaten Optimator, didn’t impress me quite as much as Round 2.5. Although its appearance was much clearer, and its ABV higher, at 7.2%, the taste just fell flat. A Dopplebock, Optimator is a traditional German beer with hints of roasted malt and chocolate.
It is at this point that I am informed I can make my very own six-pack of bottled beers, and bring them home with me. Just one more thing Jacoby’s does to make its patrons more enthusiastic about this ancient drink. Soon, once the bar’s second floor reopens (remodeling), the staff will hold beer tastings so bargoers can learn about their favorite types of beer and sample styles from around the world. Right now I’m sticking to the States.
Round 4: Goose Island Pere Jaques.
On the Goose Island web site, this beer is considered a “perfect alternative to a glass of vintage port.” The bottle is subtle, clean, and the taste is strong. A Belgian style Abbey Ale, Pere Jaques is 9.0% ABV and it shows. Even split between two people, hard work is made of finishing the 22 ounce bottle. The beer’s intensity is fairly average, though the aftertaste is a long, rough ride. I don’t know if this one will make its way into my pint glass in the future, but having the bottle on the bar invokes a sort of…high-class feeling.
Round 5 (the final sud): Rogue Chipotle.
A cloudy, amber ale brewed with roasted chipotle peppers that brings a tear to the eye. Literally. This spicy drink isn’t as powerful as some beers made with peppers, but it does pack a punch. At 5.5% ABV it’s light enough to finish up the night and smooth enough to inspire some further research: according to Rogue Ales’ web site, this beer is dedicated to Spanish author Juan de la Cueva, who, in 1575, wrote of a Mexican dish that combined seedless chipotles with ale. My glass is raised.
All in all, the experience had at Jacoby’s Biergarten (for the traditional German in us all) is one to be had again and again. Being able to prop my elbows up on a bar that has been in use since 1904 and enjoy a classic German beer is something special, and Detroit certainly knows it. For the staff at Jacoby’s, just knowing they’re part of the city’s history is enough.
“Whenever anyone asks me where a good place is to go downtown, I just say, ‘Well…’” said Miner. “I have to say Jacoby’s. It’s got a great personality.”
For more info: Jacoby’s 624 Brush Street Detroit (313) 962-7067
As published on Examiner.com
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