Scooter Chronicles

Over the course of the last two weeks I have had the opportunity to try some different beers. All of them were had during my travels, and sadly only one is theoretically obtainable here back at home.

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During my trip to Glens Falls, New York for work, we stayed in a hotel that was a two minute walk from a local brew pub. That being Davidson Brothers’. We ended up going there both nights for dinner. The chief engineer that I work for has the same taste in beer that I do, so it was a no-brainer for us. The second night was the choice of the Plant Manager who arranged the get-together with the contractors in town with us.

Davidson Brothers’ Dacker Ale
I had this beer both nights. It’s named after the Irishman Duncan Kincaid who came up with the recipe. Dacker was his nickname after raving about his time in the Adirondack Mountains. It’s a very solid ale, with a nice mix of malt and hops in the flavor, yet not overpowering. The first night I had the Bangers and Mash with it, and it was the perfect beer to go with the meal. Even the following night with my crab cakes (which weren’t all that great) it was a great go-along. They were selling six packs and cases of this, too. I was really tempted in getting bringing some home with me.

Davidson Brothers’ Smoked Porter
Even though we sat outside both nights, and they were fine summer evenings, I tried one of their porters on the first night. Usually best saved for winter, of course. This was a very good porter, yet I expected more of a smokey taste. Most porters have a smokey taste already, and the name gave me false indications that it would be more intense flavor-wise. But as I said, still a very good beer.

Davidson Brothers’ IPA
Before heading to Davidson’s the second night, some of us stopped in the hotel bar to have a drink and some appetizers. As it was, they had Davidson’s IPA on tap. It was the only good choice amongst the usual (Miller, Bud, Michelob, Coors, etc.). Though IPA’s are not my first choice, this turned into a very nice drinking beer. The hop flavor went very well with the cheddar cheese and shrimp rolls.

Davidson Brothers’ Irish Red Ale
The second night we went to Davidson’s I decided to try their Irish Red first. I quickly switched back to the Dacker. This was a very non-descript red ale and rather disappointing. Their web site says it has “a sweet maltiness and very nice hop flavor & aroma” Like the Geico caveman commercials, my response is “Uh, what?” Not to my taste buds.

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While in Detroit for my grandmother’s funeral, Marcia, my sister Jenn, and I went to Dragonmead Microbrewery. I also picked up a six pack of beer at the grocery store (rubbing it in to those of you living in Pennsylvania) of a Leinenkugel’s that I had yet to try.

Dragonmead’s Dead Monk Abbey Ale
What a delight this beer was. Even though on draught, it was served at a warmer temperature then I am used to, however like it’s supposed to be. This (I am sure) brought out more of the taste. A real nice mix of malts and hops and candi sugars. Out of the few Dragonmead brews I have tried, this is the best so far.

Dragonmead’s Cask Condition Imperial Stout
I tried this because, well, it was cask condition. And then was disappointed on how it didn’t seem any different then other good stouts I have had. Again, hype rears it’s ugly head. Still not a waste of time to drink, so don’t get me wrong.

Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat
Whoa! This was a really strong flavored beer. Though I think if I had it in a glass, and with a slice of orange, it would have made it even better. It was rather strong on the coriander, but that didn’t bother me. The lightness of the wheat made it a very enjoyable brew. This would be an excellent choice to go with smoked or grilled seafood. I really hope I can find another six pack of this one again.