Brew Detective: Barrel Brothers

Taking My Talents to New England

Windsor's Barrel Brothers is one of many west coast breweries deciding to bite on the New England style. Taking My Talents to New England is a deliciously smooth, flaked IPA. I was drawn to this four pack due to the name & label. The brewing information rests on jerseys. A flaming hop, influenced by the Miami Heat logo is the centerpiece and a rendering of a basketball court fills the background. Did I mention I love basketball?

It teeters toward the juicy side but it's not a total juice bomb. Flaked oats and wheat give it a foggy appearance without sacrificing hop forward flavor. As far as hazy IPAs go, this one is very well balanced and doesn't taste too sweet, nor does it have an abundance of particulates. Running the point is 2-Row malt. Vermont Ale Yeast is used to illicit its own unique set of characteristics. I highly recommend Taking My Talents to New England. Enjoy responsibly.

Hops: Citra, Denali, Mosaic, Bru-1
6.9% ABV | 35 IBU


eightychoices.

Need Your Love

Current Mood |

Curtis Harding | "Need Your Love" | Face Your Fear

Harding's voice seems too effortless, yet powerful and clear. Straight forward lyrics pierce with arrow-like precision. The band is tight, dig'n the bass yo. Check out Curtis Harding on tour or dive deeper into his studio catalog. 

eightychoices.

Brew Detective: Hen House | Blanc Helicopters

Hen House ~ IPA

Subtle juice aromas hit initially, and the slightest hint of funk, piquing curiosity. Heavy in color, a dialogue ensues, malty-oranges and hazy straw-yellows interact. It churns into the glass.

The first taste entertains a soft bitterness, which I preferred. The over all presentation is unique, yet not overwhelming. Helicopters highlights the Hallertau Blanc hops. A pleasing mixture of stone fruit and hop-induced lusciousness quarrel for attention—neither too sweet, nor too bitter. The hop prevails, yum. Blanc Helicopters is super drinkable. Dare I say, this is my favorite IPA from Hen House...

Be on the lookout for Blanc Helicopters (7%).

Enjoy Responsibly,

eightychoices.

Astral Plane

Current Mood

Valerie June | "Astral Plane" | The Order of Time

Is there a light?

You have inside you

Can't touch

A looking glass 

Can only show you

So much

Follow the signs

Slowly but steady

Don't rush

The day will come

When you are ready

Just trust

...

Is there a way?

For you to shine

Without fear

From other worlds 

But you can't say

What keeps you here

...

Is there a way?

For you to give it

Your all

Dreaming a dream

Of sweeter things great 

Or Small

Dancing on the astral plane 

Holy water, cleansing rain

Floating through the stratosphere

Blind, but yet you see so clear
...

There is a light
You have inside you
Can touch

Valerie's words are hymnal-like. Her poetic positivity makes me feel more than expected. "Astral Plane" registers with me. I would like to thank her for making me feel, and for telling me that I have a light. Thank you Valerie June. Here's to dancing on the Astral Plane and striving to shine our light. 

eightychoices.