Mix Your Own Shanty, Plus Beer Reviews and Specials

In beer news:

As a “warm-up” to the big one (Mondial), may we suggest bierfest next weekend in Blainville- Sat. May 15 –Sun. May 16,2010 . The address is 947 Curé-Labelle. Featured will be microbrewery reps and their beer samples, plus sausages from William J. Walter, plus a selection of antique cars (weather permitting). After Labatt’s disappointing bud light lime miller has found it ideal to integrate the market with a copycat “Miller Chill”. Why not do yourselves a favour and mix something at home? My suggestion is some kind of shanty or shanty gaff or panache. I like a strong beer,(Black Bull 10%, Blue Dry 10.1%, Black Label 10.1%, etc…) add any combination of ginger ale, ginger beer, lemon lime and even root beer along with the juice of one lime. Adjust to your taste, adding a sprinkle of salt, if too sweet. Put some ice cubes, if you want-make a pitcher- pour in tall glasses or beer mugs- enjoy!!!

As a special Mother’s Day treat, I decided to feature Unibroue’s Éphémère (Cassis – Black Currant) “beer on lees”. Only available a little over a year, it has made headway in a niche market- fruit-based ales. The dark berry perfume startles at first, but mingles subtly with apple, spice and hoppy flavours. Its orange-pink semi-opaque body delights the eye, as much as the label, featuring a fairy-pixie princess on a swing of flower vines. At 5.5% alc., I think many female fans of malted beverages will appreciate the attributes(and taste) of this interesting sensor’s experience (even mothers). Available almost everywhere, the price may vary between $4.49/750ml bottle to $5.99 at the prestige (read price gouging) establishments. Would pair well with pork chops and apple sauce, fruit based desserts, or a sunny afternoon on a lawn chair with friends.

P. S . On the poetic pun route,  regarding Éphémère, I’ve been heard saying,

 “If I’m here, I’ll drink beer!”

 

Vivat is another example of the fine triples France has to offer. Brewed by Brasserie du Cateau (Cambresis), using barley malt, wheat, hops, & yeast of finest quality, the end result is a sweet, blond, cloudy brew with a white, persistent head. First smells we perceive are the hops, & dry wheat, leading to tastes of mild apple, vanilla, and citrus mix. Overall, a well-balanced, pleasing beverage, worthy of a rounded meal, roast, meatloaf or meat pasta dish. At 8.3% alc, the price of $6.50 for a 750 ml bottle is conductive to any budget. Available at the SAQ, I highly recommend it!

More beer specials (until may 16th):

PA Supermarkets – Beck’s at $12.99 for 12 .

Adonis Supermarkets – Heineken and Stella Artois at $13.99 for 12.

-The Bugler