REVIEW-A-BREW:

Beer: Secret  Spot, with Madagascar Vanilla Bean, 11 ABV
Style: Imperial Stout
Brewery:  Green Room Brewing, Jacksonville Beach


About six weeks ago, June 17 to be exact, Green Room Brewing in Jax Beach threw its 6th year anniversary party. As is the brewery's anniversary tradition, the annual Secret Spot Anniversary Ale is released on that day. The Secret Spot is an Imperial Stout aged in Dominican Rum Barrels. While the brewery historically pours variants of the Secret Spot (think coffee, vanilla, coconut) on tap as part of the anniversary bash, this year, the brewery released bottles of the treated versions for the first time. 

REVIEW-A-BREW:

Beer: Big Deal Double IPA, 9.5 ABV
Style: Double IPA
Brewery: Darwin Brewing Co., Bradenton FL

Double IPAs (also known as "Imperial IPAs") generally consist of "more." As in more malt, more hops, and, more strength, in terms of a higher ABV, than its hop darling cousin, the IPA (India Pale Ale). Higher malt typically results in a smooth beer that exhibits greater sweetness. For those looking for a beer that's "big," a Double IPA ("DIPA") packs a punch in a smaller size pour -- the style is usually served in a snifter.

REVIEW-A-BREW:

Beer:           Big Deal Lager, 4.2 ABV
Style:           Helles Lager
Brewery:     Darwin Brewing Co., Bradenton FL

Today just so happens to be the First Day of Summer (officially speaking), so there's no better time to take a look at a beer that will make a great "summer beer." You know the kind: the ones you enjoy on the patio, at the beach or pool, with a BBQ, or, quite simply, anytime you're looking for a lighter, refreshing beer.