Matty D’s Beer Corner

The Elusive Unicorn

“For the red, white, and blue, and the freedom we deserve”

It might be a fridge-essential, a tailgate hit, the perfect Beirut can, or an off-the-beaten-path brew.  Maybe it came from a large production company, a local microbrewery, or from over the oceans.

The only common denominator is that it has to be beer. So crack open that cold one in your hand and listen in, maybe just maybe I’ll sway you onto your new favorite American pastime. 

Beer of the Week:

Dogfish Head 120-Minute IPA

Oh yes, oh yes I did. It took me over a year to procure of a case of Dogfish 120. This extremely rare “unicorn” of beers is only brewed 2 or 3 times a year and in very limited quantities. For any IPA lover out there, this is a must find. The 120-minute is an extremely heavy beer and one to be enjoyed, not chugged or consumed amongst other, lesser, beers. It rests anywhere between 15% to 20% ABV, my batch came in at 18%.

It is a completely unique taste, even from the 90-Minute IPA that Dogfish Head puts out. It begins with a sweet taste that mirrors a barleywine but very quickly leads you into the hoppy taste that you crave. But it is never too overwhelming and the alcohol, while noticeable, never crushes your pallet. Don’t be swayed away by the alcoholic smell. My mother tried a bottle with me and loved it even though she isn’t into overly bitter and alcoholic beers.

The big difference I found between the 120-Minute and other heavy-alcohol beers is that this still drinks like a beer. No need to sip it like whiskey on the rocks. That sets it apart and makes it “the holy grail for hopheads”. Just don’t forget the alcohol content and starting kicking them back.

I plan on storing a few away and allowing them to age, which I have heard is a great idea. Doesn’t mean it will stop me from finding this fantastic beer again soon. It is easily one of my favorite beers of all time and tops my IPA chart. Perfect for a nice treat while watching the Masters a couple of weekends from now.

If any readers or tweeters have any advice on beers to spotlight, give my a shout. Remember, America was built on beer and don’t let anyone tell you differently.

Never stop being merry!

Matty D