Bootlegger's: Wildfire Wheat

5.2% ABV  17.7 IBU's

When I was on my value binge at Total Wine there was a 22 oz. bottle of Bootlegger's Wildfire Wheat for only $2.99. I couldn't resist...

When I got home and was ready to open the bottle I read the description and it said that it was a smoked beer to go along with the wildfire theme. I was a bit cautious at first because I have had a couple of smoked beers over the years and I haven't liked them.

I was pleasantly surprised though. There was just a little smokiness where you could detect it and enjoy it, but it wasn't overpowing at all. Kind of an interesing twist on a wheat beer.

Bootlegger's impresses me again!

Bootlegger's: Pumpkin Ale

6.1% ABV    17.8 IBU's

Tis' the season..... to drink pumpkin beer!

Let me start off first by saying that I love pumpkin pie. I have had a number of pumpkin beers over the years and I never seem to be satisfied with the pumpkin taste. Until now....

Bootlegger's Pumpkin Ale is by far the best pumpkin beer that I have had. It started off well, pouring a color that was just right. The pumpkin and spices were apparent in the aroma. The best part though was the taste. The pumpkin tasted very fresh and the spices were just right. Not super strong like eating a piece of pumpkin pie, but just the right amount where you could really enjoy drinking the beer.

Now my challenge is to find another bottle......

San Clemente 3rd Annual Micro Brew Fest

Saturday, April 20th was the 3rd Annual San Clemente Micro Brew Fest hosted by Left Coast Brewery. There were 16 breweries on hand from Orange County, San Diego County, and the Inland Empire. Combined with a couple good friends, some good music, and perfect weather.... it was bound to be a great day!






My first stop was Mother Earth Brewing Co. because I haven't had the chance to try their brews. I went for the Hop Diggity Double IPA and it was really good. Next was Inland Empire Brewing Co. (another one that I had yet to try). I went for the Victoria (American Strong Ale). Over to Bootlegger's Brewery for their Golden Chaos. Check in at The Bruery for a quick taste of White Oak (this is some great stuff). Time to head back to the shade to visit Left Coast Brewery for some Hop Juice (one of my favorites).


We started off strong so we took a few minutes to enjoy some good music from Aloha Radio.











Back to work... The day wouldn't have been right if we hadn't stopped by Hangar 24 for their Double IPA. I would have to say that this one is right up there with my favorite Double IPA's, especially on warm days because it goes down so smooth (It's kind of scary for 9% ABV).







Slowing it down a bit we used our last 4 taste tickets for Beachwood BBQ & Brewing's Pole Position IPA. Then off to Noble Ale Works for a Big Whig IPA. Last, but certainly not least was another stop at The Bruery for some Loakal Red and then finishing off at Hangar 24 with an Orange Wheat.













Overall this was a great event. For $25 presale (included 10 4-oz. tasters), I thought it was reasonably priced. The crowd was great and the brewery selection was good. The only real thing that needs a makeover was the food that was pretty run of the mill. If the weather is as nice as it was this year, I will definitely make it back next year!