The unofficial online home for fans of the Old Dominion University Monarchs. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

Had Allagash Curieux today. Not quite sure what to think of it. Will have to make another go of it when I can work up the coin. I do like the fruity phenolic notes and the touch of whiskey that permeates.

Had my chance at CBS and passed. I ordered a case of something Polish imported last month and that dented the beer budget for the year. My local establishment has tempting options for further budget-busting but I have to remain steadfast. Oddly enough, they still have Founders Backwoods Bastard. Might spring for that next paycheck

I've been reading Mosher's "Tasting Beer" and I recently got caught up in the UK section, especially the various styles present/defunct/potential. I was a bit miffed that for Scottish ales, especially the lower-ABV part of the spectrum, there wasn't much representation in the US market. (ie. If I wanted a truly sessionable Scottish ale, I'd have to plan a hop across the pond) The idea of an easy-drinking, not-going-to-mess-you-up Scottish ale on draft here in the US enthralls me. There was a micro-craft beer pilot on tap at Alexandria's Portner Brewhouse that sounded interesting, something titled "Wee Scotsman" with all the toffee and malt sweetness (and perhaps a touch of peaty smokiness) but without the moderate to high ABV. Sad that I didn't go for it when I could. Anyone have any suggestions for stateside Scottish ales in that vein?

The UK focus has drawn my attention to Yards in Philly, mostly because of their English IPA and their Brawler British Mild ale. I've always leaned toward the European hops as far as IPAs are considered, but the concept of the malty sessionable pub beer has recently become a point of fascination for me.