This week in CBX: Scotsman-like conduct

Image by Flickr user Wolfrage

The good lads of the Charleston Beer Exchange clan are bringing you two very different rare beers this week, but both draw inspiration from Bonny Scotland.

Rare Beer Tuesday will see a 2007 vintage of Smuttynose Brewing's Scotch Ale hitting the growler station at 5 p.m.  This was a regular member of the Portsmouth, NH brewery's Big Beer Series, with each year's recipe and ABV varying slightly.  2007 is a hefty 8.2% ABV, and this particular keg was aged under "perfect conditions", presumably at the brewery.  It earns a B+ from BeerAdvocate, a 96 from Ratebeer, and a ringing endorsement from CBX via their blog.

Switching stylistic gears for Rare Bomber Thursday, Dark Heather Saison (7.5% ABV, B+, 89) from New Belgium Brewing will be available in pre-counter-pressure-filled bombers starting at 5 p.m.  This is a draft-only brew from the Fort Collins, CO brewery's Lips of Faith line.  If the commercial description is good enough for CBX, it's good enough for me:

This winter saison starts with pale and black barley malts creating a deep midnight hue with reddish highlights. The beer is spiced with cardamom, heather and black pepper for a touch of sweet that fades to a warm, peppery finish. Target and Saaz hops accentuate the spicing while the peppery notes balance nicely with the fruitiness of the saison yeast. The resulting dark saison is a lovely tongue tingler for those long winter nights.

Charleston Beer Exchange is located at 14 Exchange Street downtown.  You may buy their beers, but you'll never take their freedom.

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