Reviews - Page 3

A photo of a 16-ounce can of Captain Lawrence Brewing Company's Golden Delicious, an ale aged in apple brandy barrels.

Captain Lawrence Golden Delicious: A Knock You On Your A.. Beer Review

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Buckle up, buttercup, because Captain Lawrence Brewing Company’s Golden Delicious is not your average beer. It’s more like a shot of brandy chasing a beer, or, for me, a beer chasing a shot of brandy. Either way, at 10% ABV, this apple-brandy-barrel-aged tripel is a potent brew that demands your full attention.

My first sip was a bit of a shock—a symphony of “Ahh!” and “What the…”—but like a fine wine (or a stiff drink), Golden Delicious mellows with each subsequent sip. The vanilla oak barrel flavor and the undeniable warmth of the alcohol gradually permeate your senses, transforming you into a full-fledged fan by the time you reach the bottom of the glass.

Just remember, this ain’t no regular beer. Don’t even think about cracking open a can of Golden Delicious if you’re behind the wheel. And if you plan on having more than one, make sure you’ve got a designated driver (or a comfy couch) and a few friends to help you walk.

As for accolades, Captain Lawrence claims Golden Delicious won first place in the 2023 Great International Beer Competition’s Strong Beer Category. And let’s not forget those shiny medals. The can also boasts a GABF Bronze Medal for Wood-and-Barrel-Aged Strong Beer in both 2008 and 2012. But honestly, who needs awards when you’ve got a beer this unique and unforgettable?

So, if you’re feeling adventurous and your liver is up for the challenge, give Golden Delicious a try. Just be prepared for a wild ride—and maybe have some aspirin on hand for the morning after.

  • Style: Belgian Tripel
  • ABV: 10%
  • IBUs: N/A
  • Awards: First place in the 2023 Great International Beer Competition’s Strong Beer Category
  • Awards: GABF Bronze Medal for Wood-and-Barrel-Aged Strong Beer in both 2008 and 2012
  • Brewer: Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Elmsford, New York-based craft brewery

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The Crisp Pilz, in a 12-ounce can from Sixpoint Brewery, stands out against a blue backdrop. The can features the Sixpoint Brewery logo at the top, followed by "The Crisp" in large blue letters and "Pilz" in smaller white letters inside a black boxed background.

The Crisp Pilz: Sixpoint Brewery’s Bold Pilsner Reviewed

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The Crisp Pilz by Sixpoint Brewery isn’t your typical light and refreshing pilsner. This brew is crafted for those who appreciate a full-bodied taste experience. It finishes with a dry, mildly bitter bite, making it a non-traditional pilsner that appeals to those who enjoy a hoppy edge. If you’re looking for a pilsner with character and a bit of a punch, The Crisp Pilz is worth a try.

  • Style: German Pilsner
  • ABV: 5.4 %
  • IBUs: 44
  • Brewer: Sixpoint Brewery, Brooklyn, New York-based craft brewery

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A can of Captain Lawrence Orange Crusher Citrus Lager with a white background. The can features a white label with orange accents, displaying the Captain Lawrence Brewing Company logo at the top.

A Subtle Review of Captain Lawrence Orange Crusher

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When I first laid eyes on the can of Orange Crusher Lager by Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, two things caught my attention: it was a lager, and it promised an orange flavor. In my mind, I envisioned a light, vibrant burst of citrusy goodness.

Based on my experience with other Captain Lawrence lagers, I expected it to be light in taste. Indeed, my first sip confirmed that this beer is subtle, with a mild bitterness and a delicate hint of orange peel and citrus. While it didn’t deliver an intense orange explosion, it offered a more nuanced and refined citrus touch, which makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a lightly flavored beer.

Orange Crusher Citrus Lager pours with a clear, pale yellow hue. The mouthfeel is light, crisp, and pleasantly carbonated. The slight citrus note keeps it interesting without being overbearing, and its lightness makes it incredibly easy to drink.

If you’re looking for a beer on the lighter side of the spectrum with just a hint of orange, Captain Lawrence Orange Crusher is the one for you. It’s a refreshing and pleasant option, especially for summer. Light and easy-going, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a subtly fruity beer. Its delicate citrus twist offers a mild yet enjoyable beer experience that’s definitely worth a try.

  • Style: Lager
  • ABV: 4.2 %
  • IBUs: N.A.
  • Brewer: Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Elmsford, New York-based, independently-owned craft brewery

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A 1-pint can of Moor's Brewing Company Pilsner beer with a black man featured on the can for a tasting review in the beer blog Denim BMC.

A Tasty Review of the Moor’s Brewing Company’s Pilsner

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The striking black face on Moor’s Brewing Company’s Pilsner instantly drew me in as I perused the stacked six-packs at my local Whole Foods. Curiosity piqued, and I couldn’t resist sampling a brew from this black-owned brewery. Though not a rarity in today’s world, it was my inaugural encounter, and as a seasoned beer enthusiast, I’ve sampled my fair share.

Founded by Damon Patton, Jamhal Johnson, and Anthony Bell, all hailing from Chicago’s South Side, Moor’s Brewing Company represents a rich local legacy. Upon first whiff, it’s evident: this is no ordinary brew. The aroma is a delightful bouquet of florals and fruits, enticing me to savor the scent before even taking a sip.

In terms of taste, Moor’s Brewing Company’s Pilsner leans more toward flavor than sheer refreshment, boasting a slightly cloudy hue and its own distinct flavor profile. With a touch more bitterness than your typical American Pilsner, it forgoes the crisp finish for a more robust palate. Yet, far from a flaw, this characteristic is par for the course in many craft pilsners.

And did I mention the aroma? It bears repeating—this beer smells absolutely divine. After just one glass, it’s clear: this Pilsner packs a punch. Moor’s Pilsner is a sleeper hit, its unique flavor growing more appealing with each sip. It’s the kind of brew that lingers on the palate, leaving you yearning for more. Without a doubt, it’s earned a spot on my list of must-have brews.

  • Style: German-style Pilsner
  • ABV: 6 %
  • IBUs: 30
  • Brewer: Moor’s Brewing Company, Chicago, Illinois-based, independent black-owned craft brewery
From left to right, a photo of Jamhal Johnson, Damon Patton, and Anthony Bell pose with a can of Moor's Brewing Company. The image links to a story titled: Moors Brewing Success and Pioneering the Path as a Black-owned Brewery, on the Making A Brand website.
From left to right, Jamhal Johnson, Damon Patton, and Anthony Bell, owners of Moor’s Brewing Company.

After tasting Moor’s Brewing Company’s Pilsner, you’ll have a greater respect for the craft and innovation that goes into their brews. You can learn more about their narrative and the pioneering path of their black-owned brewery by reading about them on Makingabrand.co, which I also wrote. Click on the image above to learn about Moor’s Brewing’s rich history and commitment to diversity in the craft beer business. Cheers to discovery, knowledge, and excellence!

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Hell or High Watermelon American wheat beer by 21st Amendment Brewery'

A Hell or High Watermelon Storied Review

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Years ago, my beer journey took a delightful turn with a sip of Hell or High Watermelon from 21st Amendment Brewery. Imagine a scorching summer day, a cozy beer bar by the park, and a group of friends after a satisfying bike ride. As a big fan of wheat beers, stumbling upon a watermelon-infused wheat brew on tap was a pleasant surprise. Curious, I took a sip. And wow, I was hooked.

That first taste sparked a hunt. Like a detective, I searched everywhere, hoping to find that elusive watermelon beer again. But alas, it disappeared like a fleeting summer breeze, leaving me wanting more. However, luck was on my side the following summer when, like an old friend, Hell or High Watermelon showed up again.

Fast forward to today. My palate has grown after sampling many fruity beers, yet I’m still in love with this American wheat. With each sip, memories of that first taste come flooding back. With its delicate, mellow watermelon essence and a crisp finish, Hell or High Watermelon is a quenching delight that’ll have you yearning for another sip.

Even though it’s not always available, I grab it whenever I can, especially in the hot summer months. To be real, a beer this good is worth waiting for. So, if you ever get the chance to try Hell or High Watermelon, consider yourself lucky. Enjoy it, savor it, and let its fruity charm take you to beer heaven. Here’s to the beer that started it all!

    • Style: American wheat brewed with real watermelon

    • ABV: 4.5 %

    • IBUs: 17

    • Seasonal: Available April through September

    • Brewer: 21st Amendment Brewery, San Leandro, California-based, independent craft brewery

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A one pint can of Tröegs Master of Pumpkins Ale is reviewed as one of the Best Seasonal Beers in the beer blog Denim Beer Machines & Coffee.
A one pint can of Tröegs Master of Pumpkins Ale, brewed in Hershey,Pennsylvania.

On Top—A Review of Tröegs Master of Pumpkins, One of the Best Seasonal Beers

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Autumn marks the return of flannel, bonfires, and the ever-popular pumpkin-flavored beers. In this competitive field, Tröegs Master of Pumpkins Ale has distinguished itself as a top contender.

If you’ve been doing your homework on the top pumpkin beers, you might’ve read my “Fluid List: The Best Pumpkin Beers Ranked,” where I ranked some of the best in the business (or, at least, those I’ve tasted). Master of Pumpkins didn’t just make the cut—it rose to the top, a testament to its craft and flavor profile.

After taking my first sip of Master of Pumpkins Ale, it became immediately clear that it was well-named. Oh, it’s not just a moniker; it’s a statement.

Master of Pumpkins Ale pours with an inviting, thick, creamy, off-white head that immediately catches the eye. The beer itself presents a rich, dark brown hue, evoking autumn evenings and a sense of rustic warmth. On the nose, the aroma delivers subtle hints of cinnamon, clove, and, of course, pumpkin—conjuring a nostalgic blend of fall scents. As for carbonation, it strikes a well-balanced medium, providing just enough effervescence to elevate the complex flavors without overwhelming the palate.


Founded in 1996 and hailing from Hershey, Pennsylvania, Tröegs Independent Brewing has a long-standing reputation for crafting award-winning beers. Among their seasonal offerings, Master of Pumpkins Ale stands out. Every ingredient, down to the longneck pumpkins, is locally sourced from Pennsylvania farms, lending the ale an unmatched level of authenticity.

Master of Pumpkins Ale isn’t just another seasonal offering—it’s a finely crafted masterpiece in the realm of pumpkin ales. If you get the chance, don’t hesitate to try it; it comes with my highest recommendation for an autumnal brew done right.

  • Style: Pumpkin Ale
  • ABV: 7.5 %
  • IBUs: 30
  • Available: Seasonal, available September through October
  • Awards: 2019 U.S. Beer Tasting Championship – Best of the Mid-Atlantic Spice Beer
  • Grain: Munich, Pilsner, Special B
  • Hops: German Northern Brewer
  • Yeast: Belgian Ale Yeast
  • Tasting Notes: nutmeg, cinnamon, caramel, vanilla bean
  • Brewer: Tröegs Independent Brewing, Hershey, Pennsylvania-based, independent craft brewery

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