I have nothing to say. This is troublesome, as Victoria's eminent beer blogger, I should have lots to say. Perhaps I should substitute "eminent" with "only". Even Leapbeer is blogging about Victoria beers more than I am. Perhaps my articles are too short. Joe Wiebe's review of Central City's Imperial IPA was three times as long as mine. Making note to self: pull socks up, get off ass, do something.

In my defense, things have been quiet in the Victoria beer scene. Releases have been slight. Swan's does have the Tessier's Witbeir on tap, one of my favourites. Moon Under Water's summer hefe is not due out for a week or so. Lighthouse will have a new ale coming next week, whenever the caps arrive. Hoyne has a summer wheat beer (not hefe) with honey sourced withing walking distance.

There has not been any good news about beer/alcohol and health. Unless you count the Tim Stockwell media machine that says private BC liquor stores are killing us off. Mice got a bit of good press, demonstrating that they didn't get fat when given a rare nutrient found in beer.

Might as well fall back on an old formula; import beer review.

Ola Dubh 18 = 10/10

Ratebeer 3.84 99th percentile
Beer Advocate 93%

To smell this beer, is to understand the life of a Cooper. Roasted cocoa nibs, peat and ash aromas start the Pavlovian response. You don't sip this beer; it is more like chew. I don't mind a thick and full mouthfeel with abundant tastes of dark chocolate, pecans, whiskey, black berries and #2 HB pencils. Scotch vapours can sometimes fade, but Ola Dubh never leaves. The only downside to this beer is the bottle is too small. I would like to obtain a growler fill of this stuff! Look closely at the label. I want George's job: Master of Wood. 

Taste +5
Aftertaste +2
Alcohol Content +1 8%
Value +1
Appearance +1 (simple and elegant labeling with great description of beer)

This is one of those beers that they say you must try before you die; rather like Westvleteren and Pabst Blue Ribbon. PBR might actually hasten death.

Old Peculier (Theakston) = 7/10

Ratebeer 3.59 96th percentile
Beer Advocate 88th

An unassuming nose doesn't allude to this beers approaching greatness. There is only a faint whiff of lactose, earth and berries. The sip doesn't knock you over, but it does make you weep. It is all there in perfect balance: raisins, berries (blueberry, blackberry), sherry, caramel and Terra Firma. It is clean as a military barracks floor but a bit warmer. I wish I had bought two bottles.

Taste +4
Aftertaste +1
Alcohol Content 0 5.6%
Value +1
Appearance +1 (Classic English style label: a crest, bold lettering and words why this beer is awesome)

Tripel Exultation = 8/10
Ratebeer 3.59 96th percentile
Beer Advocate 85%

Order up! Today's special is vinous, figs and caramel in a glass. It comes with a side order of slick and warming sherry notes but not too burning. You can upgrade to a thin sherry with prunes, herbal and floral hops. For Dessert: extra alcohol vapours are on the house. A little thin for a big ABV.

Taste +3
Aftertaste +2
Alcohol Content +1 9.7%
Value  +1 barely
Appearance +1 full label and organic!