This thread hasn't received a post in almost 4 months. Unacceptable!
Since I've had to severely cut back on my drinking, I don't have as many beer reviews as I would have many years ago. I've basically been doing taste testing by brand. Now living out in the Bay Area, there's absolutely no shortage of great beer. Here's what I've got so far:
Lagunitas Undercover Investigation Shutdown AleDrinking this now. Absolutely
fantastic beer. You'd think I work for Lagunitas with all of the positive reviews I write for their beer. Pours out to a beautiful dark amber/copper color. Sweet and citrusy, but a strong bitter finish. Or is it the other way around? This beer will assault your taste buds, and I mean that in the best possible way. Certainly not a beer for everyone though as it's quite unique. For me, it's a beer I savor with every sip. And at 9.3% ABV, it packs a punch. 9.5/10.
Lagunitas NightTime AleYup, another winner from Lagunitas. "Black" IPA. Piney, roasty, hoppy but not too hoppy. Full of flavor and really nicely balanced. Very highly recommended. 9/10.
Stone Ruination IPAI picked up a variety pack from Stone Brewing, which included Ruination IPA, "Delicious IPA", Arrogant **** Ale, and a "Cali-Belgique" IPA (all reviewed below). The Ruination IPA in my opinion was the best. Supposedly they don't make this anymore - but if you can find it, buy it. Especially if you like IPAs. Another beer that will assault your taste buds. And, among other wonderful things, you can actually taste the alcohol. If your idea of good beer is Miller Lite (or any light beer for that matter), then this beer is not for you. 9/10.
Stone Delicious IPAJust as the name says, the beer is delicious. Lemony, citrusy. Floral aroma. Good stuff. Probably more "drinkable" than Ruination for the average beer drinker, but not on par with Ruination. 8/10.