I am dead set on trying everything that catches my eye this winter. I saw this beer on a shelf at the wine shop and felt compelled to get it due to all the press I feel I have been exposed to over the past two years. The price was in line with all of the other 22oz beers in the specialty section so whatever. I went to check in with this beer on untapped and was shocked by the reported 16% ABV. I was sure this wasn't right and upon further investigation my eyes were opened to how crazy this beer is. It is the 16th anniversary ale crafted by Schmaltz Brewing Company, made with 16 hops and 16 malts. So if you do the math Schmaltz brewing has been around since 1996 brewing the Hebrew brands of beers, and in 2007 the began the Coney Island line of freaky ales.
This beer was very strong in flavor. When I get a beer that is this complex I like spread out my tastings, and I needed the help finishing this bomb. The flavor was sweet, fruity, and semi boozy. I would recommend picking up two of these if it is in the budget and lagering one until next year. So how far can this idea of the big beer go? In my travels, people are always concerned with the body of beer, and the ability to have more than one. Beers of this weight should be poured in smaller servings, maybe 6 or 8 ounce pours in a glass that allows it to breath. Slow do and enjoy the big ones, they are hard to get and probably better served closer to room temperature. I get a kick out of the journey of nursing a big beer over an hour sometimes.
The brewers at Schmaltz have a great sense of adventure and provide beers for like minded people. Their website isn't flashy and they have very little merchandise. In the market their beers jump out at you with their sense of whimsy and humor. I have to warn you that the actual beer may punch you in the stomach. So pick one up, and head on over to www.shmaltzbrewing.com.
After nearly a year, it still taste like burning!
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