On Sunday I paid my second visit to the Convention Centre for the final day of the fair. This time instead of a band of beery types I had my wife and twin daughters with me so I was on my best behaviour. I started off with Trouble and O Brother’s collaboration; Blood Brother, a Blood Orange Black IPA. It was as good as you’d expect it to be given it’s pedigree.
I swung by Jack Cody’s and had some of their Hail Glorious St Patrick Stout which had been awarded a bronze medal. You’ll be glad to hear it’s being relaunched in a couple of weeks, just in time for Paddy’s Day!
I tried the Creo Chocolate and Cinnamon Imperial Stout next. Apparently it’s an aphrodisiac, the right job for Valentine’s Day. Two very topical brews in a row.
It being Sunday lunchtime we were all feeling a bit peckish. I had the very tasty focacia with pastrami and cheddar from Bretzel Bakery, the girls tried some of Dublin Cookie Company’s wares and my wife had some of Cornude’s Chocolate and Peanut Butter Popcorn. We all shared with each other and we were all happy.
Next I went to Cool Hand Brewing ( aka Big Hand Brewing in the UK) and tried some of their Smokin’ Gun Porter. Another very pleasant dark beer.
After that I tried the newly launched Notorious Red IPA from O’Hara’s. I can see myself having a few more of them when I’m down in Brewery Corner later this month.
I paid my second visit to the Soulwater stand and the lads talked me through their own two beers, Mutiny IPA and Renegade American Amber. They are both good but I preferred the Renegade, the brewer brings a wealth of experience from his time with Bath Ales and Beerd. At the moment they are brewing in Limerick with plans to set up their own brewery. I’m looking forward to seeing more from these guys.
It was just about time for me to leave and my last stop was at the Grand Cru Stand where I had a drop of Lagunitas Fusion XXXI . It was a bit of an unusual one to finish the afternoon off, mosaic hops and mangoes, kind of sweet and sour. All told a smashing weekend of amazing beer, great food and sound people, thanks for having me Alltech. Sláinte!
There is no questioning your dedication!
Someone has to do it!!
I’d say you were the very man for the job!