Broken Speaker Episode 2: Da Beers

Welcome back for the second edition of Da Beers. If you haven't listened to our podcast yet you should probably go ahead and do that. If you want an even better experience, listen to the podcast while drinking these beers just like Greg and I were while we were making it. This week Greg and I both chose some phenomenal beers you won't want to miss.

Isolation Ale

This brew is produced by Odell Brewing Company which is based in Fort Collins Colorado. When I had my first sip, I thought to myself "now I'm ready for winter". Classified as a Winter Warmer, this beer sits at 42 IBUs and is 6.1% alcohol by volume making sure that it gives you that warm feeling inside on a cold night.

Initially I recognized the caramel malt flavors that reached by tongue, and I was pleasantly surprised that they were not overpowered by the hop notes. While 42 IBUs is not extremely high, I have had beers before where all you taste is the hops. Odell has done a great job at balancing the two flavors.

The only downside to a seasonal beer is that there is a very small window for people to try it. According to the Odell website, Isolation Ale is available from October through December. That means we are over halfway through Isolation season, so make sure you get out and try this one today! 

Archangel Cherry Wheat 

Greg's beer was the Archangel Cherry Wheat which is made by the North Peak Brewing Company. This brewery started in 1997 when an abandoned candy factory was purchased in downtown Traverse City Michigan. From what I can tell on their website, they try and use ingredients that are locally sourced in Michigan as much as they can for all of their beers.

While looking for this beer I noticed that the North Peak Brewing Company website Archangel listed as Summer Wheat rather than Cherry Wheat. Maybe this is a rather recent switch from the beer being a seasonal to going full time and they haven't updated their website? No idea, but you can definitely find reviews about this beer under both names.

Overall, it sounds like Archangel Cherry Wheat is a pretty solid choice for a drinkable beer according to various reviews and Greg's impression of it. The fact that this beer focuses on a locally sourced fruit to highlight is just the cherry on top of it all (see what I did there?).

All terrible jokes aside, try both of these beers if you get the chance and let us know what your opinion is on them. Also if you have any beers you think we should try in future episodes, mention them in the comments below.

Cheers!
-Brian