Tuesday, February 22, 2011

No friars were harmed in the consumption of this beer.

Brewery: 21st Amendment Brewery
Location: Cold Springs, MN
Name: Monk's Blood
Type: Belgian Dark Ale
ABV: 8.3%
From it's canned prison springs forth a torrent of rich ruby tinged tawny brown liquid which wears a snow white foam cap that hangs around for an insane amount of time. Seriously. The head on this thing has squatter's rights. Lots of activity in the glass as you can clearly see a good amount of carbonation going on. The bouquet on these 12 ounces of abbot's hemoglobin ale is full and sweet. Notes of dark cherry, vanilla, and figs all make a stop in the ol' nose region. Subtle hints of cinnamon dance around as if not quite invited yet not going to get kicked out of the party sort of way. The taste mirrors the smell almost note for note. Fruity, sweet, malty, and spicy flavors provide a full on taste bud frontal assault. The mouthfeel is medium bodied with a clean finish that provides a bit of that warming alcohol sensation. What I like about it is that the alcohol taste is not distracting at all and provides a great accompaniment to the robust flavors of the beer. Definitely not a warm weather beer but it is quite tasty. I've been on the hunt for this beer for about 2 years and I can't fully explain how happy I was to finally get my hands on it. Though I feel the experience was slightly marred by a fever and body aches. But I'm not looking for sympathy...yet, if you were to feel as if you wanted to send me some "Get Better Beers" I can supply you with an appropriate address that will be more than happy to receive said beers. A quick redemption for the fellas at 21st Amendment...the sins of Fireside Chat have been quickly absolved. Seek this beer. Exsanguinate you some holy hermits!
Take that Friar Tuck!

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