Evil Genius Blind Eye PA

After two brews at Monk’s, it was time to hit the street and find another bar. This section of Philly happened to be one that I was very familiar with. So, Katie and I walked a few blocks to Misconduct Tavern. I’ve been to Misconduct a few times before and it’s a pretty chill bar that always has something good on tap. Evil Genius is a Pennsylvania brewery that seemed to be all over beer week. So, I figured, why not try one of them?

ABV: 7.2%

Style: Belgian Style Pale Ale

Trivia: According to the brewery website, “Love Belgian Beers? Love Hops? Then this is the beer for you. A burst of citrus aromas and flavors meld themselves with that distinct Belgian flavor.”

Random: This beer isn’t even on BeerAdvocate yet.

This poured with a half finger of white head that dissipated quickly and left some lacing on the glass. The body was a hazy orange color with moderate, visible carbonation. The nose had Belgian yeast with some hops, pretty much exactly what the brewery advertised. The taste was definitely more towards the Belgian side and was teeming with Belgian yeast with the hops taking a backseat. I also got some golden fruit on the taste. The body was medium thickness with moderate carbonation. The finish was lengthy with the same Belgian yeast that was apparently from the nose through the taste. This was a pretty nice brew, although I thought it needed a touch more of a hop presence on it. I would definitely have this one again. It’s worth searching out.

Untappd Rating: 3.0/5.0

Holy Mackerel Special Golden Ale (2010)

Since I slacked off and didn’t review anything last night, this is looking like a two beer review night. I’m currently watching the Phillies game. Worley just walked another guy for bases loaded with one out. But, I really can’t complain, as they’re winning 4-0. So, this is yet another beer from the Massachusetts stash.

ABV: 8.5%

Style: Belgian Style Pale Ale

Trivia: According to the brewery website, “A strong golden ale brewed in the Belgian tradition. Dry yet flavorful – complex yet refreshing. Handcrafted in small batches using the finest all natural ingredients. Finest all natural Pilsner malt, Saaz Hops and Belgian Trappist yeast combine to create a fresh, Florida brewed version of a popular beer style with craft beer aficionados. Unfiltered, unpasteurized and with just a hint of spice this beer is meant to be savored slowly so as to enjoy the aroma as well as the taste. Vintage dated, excellent now but even finer with 2 years age. Pairs well with cheddar cheese, chicken or seafood.”

Random: This got a “D” grade from the Bros at Beer Advocate…can’t wait to try it…

First of all, I’m not a huge fan of the label art on this beer. It’s a little odd. But, I guess I can’t judge a book by its cover. Anyways, this beer poured with a one finger white head that dissipated quickly and left no lacing on the glass. The body was a hazy yellow color with a decent amount of carbonation on it. On the nose, I got lemon zest, peaches, a bit of Belgian yeast…and maybe a hint of spice? The taste was very similar to the nose. I got a bit of citrus, then Belgian yeast and some sweetness. I didn’t get much spice on it. The alcohol wasn’t really a factor either. The beer was decently thick and the carbonation was appropriate for the brew. What I didn’t like about this beer was the finish. There was almost a syrupy sweetness to it that just didn’t work for me. As I kept sipping the beer, the sweetness became overwhelming and generally unpleasant. It wasn’t a drain pour for me, but it wasn’t easy finishing it. I wouldn’t have this again.

Untappd Rating: 3.0/5.0