Czech Republic Revisited: Velvet

Velvet Beer
Královský Pivovar Krušovice a.s. (The Royal Brewery of Krušovice ) Krušovice, Czech Republic. 5.1% ABV

Pours a nice amber with a Guinness type cascade effect. Thick long lasting head. Very smooth almost creamy mouthfeel with some sweet undertones. One of my favorite beers! This batch was hand delivered by my folks after a recent visit to the Czech Republic. The first time I discovered the beer was at a pub in Mikoluv, Czech Republic in 2003.

Available in Austin: Not commercially exported out of Czech Republic.
Beer Consumed During Writing: Velvet of course, had to sacrifice one for the photo.

Pauwel Kwak, Belgian Ale

Pauwel Kwak

Brewery Bosteels
Kerkstraat 96
9255 Buggenhout
Belgium
T:32-52-33.23.23

Chantal and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary tonight, we decided to toast the occasion with a bottle of Kwak while we rode in style to dinner in a stretch Lincoln. Very enjoyable beer, maybe it was the occasion that added to the enjoyment, but this one is on my list.

First brewed in 1791, a Belgian Ale (Dubbel)with an 8% ABV and typically served in a "yard glass" or in my case a Trappist glass. Very full body with a nice amber or cherry wood color, slightly sweet malt flavor, no bitter aftertaste like other Belgian ales. Malty and hoppy aroma with a white head. Ideal serving temp: 5 - 6c (41-43f).

The most noted aspect of this beer is the glass it is traditionally served in, prominently displayed on the label. This glass has a rounded bottom and requires the support of a wooden holder. The design of this glass stems from the days of the stagecoach. When a coach stopped at an inn, the horseman were required to stay with the horses. I have read two theories on this next part: one is beer "mugs" could not be held by thick gloved horseman, the enterprising brewer Pauwel Kwak created this special glass for them to hold with thick gloves. The second theory is the special shaped glass was created for it's ease to fit in a horse stirrup. Regardless it provided a much needed beer for thirsty travelers.

Available in Austin: Yes

The Bosteels Brewery also offers a Tripel Karmeliet and Deus.

Left Handed Brewing: Milk Stout

Left Hand Brewing Company
1265 Boston Ave
Longmont, CO 80501
303 772 0258

A full bodied 5.2% ABV, produced from 6 different malts. Coffee and vanilla on the nose. Pours a deep dark brown with a tan colored head. A pleasant roasted malt flavor with slight sweet taste and hints of chocolate.

One of my personal favorites!
Available in Austin: Yes