Beer of the Week: A Grand Cru from Belgium
I had never heard of a beer deemed “Grand Cru.” I had always thought that term applied to a region or wine with a special designation. But this week, The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper is going crazy for a very special bottle from St. Feuillien, produced by one of the world’s few female brewmasters. This Belgian doesn’t have to be kept in storage for some special occasion. It’s ready to drink now. Cheers!
Beer of the Week: Union Jack IPA
There is a history of successful people getting involved in the wine/beer business. Coppola made his way in film before Napa Valley cab, and the same is true of the Firestones. Yes, they made their name in tires first, but now – according to The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper – they’re also brewing excellent beer. Take this week’s pick, for example. It’s a fine India Pale Ale that commands attention from the start, and is likely to win over those beer drinkers who have grown weary with all of the IPAs out there today. Cheers.
Beer of the Week: Meantime Porter
This week, as the weather begins the slightest shift to milder temperatures, Michael Roper looks across the pond to London, where a relatively new brewer is producing a dynamite porter, in the classic style. Trust us, it’s not as heavy as it looks. Cheers.
Beer of the Week: Coup d’état
Revolution Brewing has been a bright spot in Logan Square since it started filling up loyalist’s growlers with frequency. Now, the Chicago brewer is branching out beyond the brewpub, selling a fantastic new Belgian-style saison. You can’t miss the dynamic bottle art, and if The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper enthusiastically recommends it, you know it’s worth a try. Cheers.
Gluten Free Beers Making Inroads In Chicago
The gluten free camp is doing a great job of getting their message out. Walking by my neighborhood grocery last night, I noticed a huge sign out front, promising “vegan and gluten free groceries.” Dozens of restaurants are now offering small sections dedicated to the GF crowd, and now even breweries are getting in on the action. But this week, Roper says only about one of them actually produces gluten free beer that tastes like beer. It is, of course from Illinois, and the Two Brothers have somehow managed to concoct a recipe that both GF and non-GF drinkers will enjoy. Cheers.
A Hopcentric, Hoptastic Beer of the Week
The Green Flash brewery isn’t known nearly as well as its fellow California brewer, Lagunitas, but this San Diego-based brewery is still producing some hoppy beers worth a look. This week, Michael Roper says their “Hop Head Red” is a red IPA that’s a bit spicier than normal, but if you’re into hops, then this one’s for you. Cheers.
