Don’t let that title mislead you. I didn’t brew it. I’m not that talented. While I would like to brew my own beer someday, this is not that day. So in the meantime, I went ahead and grabbed a bottle home-brewed by someone else. Which takes us to beer number 27, Batch 300 Tripel from The Bruery. Trust me, it was home-brewed.
While brewed and bottled by The Bruery this beer originated, like most crafts beer do, from a home brewer in nearby Redlands, CA. The Tripel won best in show of The Bruery’s third annual home brew contest. What made this year’s winner a little extra special was that it was The Bruery’s 300th batch and that the contest helped raise over $1,700 for a local free clinic. To get the full low-down on the contest and a list of all of the winners, click here.
As for the beer itself, I selected it mostly because I was intrigued by the fact that it was a home brew and because it fits my current summer theme. Much like last week’s Duvel, this Belgian-style Tripel is the perfect bottle of beer to complement a warm, summer’s day. It was brewed with Citra hops that give it a very fruity, citrus taste while being very hoppy at the same time. And you all know how much I like hoppy beers!
The citrus and the hops both come through on the smell of this beer and continue through the taste. It was also oak aged which gives you a smooth taste that lasts through the aftertaste. I thoroughly enjoyed this beer and was a little sad when I got to the bottom of the bottle. And that’s saying something. I think I’m really starting to warm up to Belgian-style ales. I never thought I would say that.
When it was all said and done, I was very pleased with my selection. Especially since I picked up a bottle the first day it came out. So all of you local readers have a chance to go grab this beer. And you really should. Batch 300 Tripel proudly kicks off the second half of the year with a “Thumb’s Up” as well as being named one of “52′s Faves.” The only thing is I don’t know how long it will be available. I might have to start stockpiling beers for when the year is up. You know, just so I can have at least one more…
Yay Redlands!