Testing Assignments, and the next meeting

Thanks to everyone who made it out last week for our first meeting at Kelvin Arms.  That was the most productive I had been all month.


The first test assignments were doled out, and Andy Goolsbee drew the high card to receive a bottle of Chimay Red Label to study for the benefit of the group.  Jim Redden got the sixer of Shiner Bock.  He and Shiner go way back, which fits the notion of revisiting an old standard with a critical eye very well.  Finally, Russell Ford got the Budweiser Michelada, which was a big can of beer with Clamato already mixed in.  His interpretation of this alcoholic abomination should be very interesting-- based on the gusto with which my lawn guy pounds one of these things before cutting my grass, Russell is in for a real treat.


A quick recap on the testing parameters:
Three specimens will be presented for consideration: the first, a craft beer or spcial-edition brew that represents the top tier of the brewmaster's trade; the second, a mass-market selection that might not othewise receive careful study from such an august organization as the Society; the third, a "beer" the likes of which a penurious college student would decline to sample.  Willing participants will draw cards, and the three highest cards get the honor of querying the samples in the comfort of their own places of repose.  Surviving testers will deliver a brief report on the sampled product.  Bonus points will be awarded for reviews that incorporate visual aids, or are presented in verse.  Points are meaningless.


The next meeting of the group will be held on Tuesday, February 1 at the Harp on Richmond Avenue, at 5:30 pm.  Andy, Jim and Russell will share their research results, and three new beers will be assigned, so don't miss it.


For more information on The Harp, click here.