Michigan knows how to produce great beer. There are a number of breweries in the state, and the New Holland Brewing Company is among the best. This week’s Beer of the Week features one of New Holland’s deep, dark beers, coming in at a whopping 10% alcohol, so maybe drink it with a friend. Either way, … Continued
This week, The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper looks to Quebec, of all places, for an inspired BotW. It’s from the well-regarded Unibroue brewery, makers of such fine beers as Ephemere and Blanche de Chambly. He says it’s a perfect complement to the change in seasons. Cheers.
Many of us beer drinkers in Chicagoland (and beyond) love 3 Floyds Brewery. I’ve gone on the record several times about their fabulous new brewpub, with an upgraded kitchen and a menu that’s worth the drive. But their beers have become as legendary as the burgers at Kuma’s, and this week, The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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.
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
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 … Continued
This week, Michael Roper is turning to a lager, but not just any lager, mind you. This one contains rye, which isn’t seen as often as you’d think. It gives this beer – Hoss – from the Great Divide Brewery in Colorado, a hint of spiciness and keeps the alcohol level relatively low. Hope you … Continued
When you think of St. Louis beers, your mind probably wanders instantly to the behemoth, Anheuser Busch. But this baseball-obsessed city also has a great little brewery called Perennial Artisan Ales, where they’re producing a Belgian-style beer that The Hopleaf’s Michael Roper is really fond of this week. It’s only 5.9% alcohol and features … Continued