Saturday, December 05, 2009

Saturnalia MMIX, Day 2: Surveying the weekend's scene.

Saturnalia MMIX got under way yesterday at the Pizzeria & Public House, and I tried to take a nip of most contestants before enjoying a massively fat stogie.

Mike had cellared a keg each of 2008 releases of Three Floyds Alpha Klaus and Delirium Noel, and they are absolutely prime. With both, it seems that a slight oxidization has brought out complex malt flavors reminiscent of brown (or perhaps candi) sugar. Enjoy them before the arc shifts downward. Another favorite Saturnalia tipple of mine is the lone French cider currently on tap: Etienne Dupont Cidre Bouche Brut, with an ideal balance of sweetness and dryness.

All opening selections are in good condition, with the starting lineup being one for the lovers of malt among you.

Hopheads note: Sierra Celebration is as good as always, and more Saturnalia-listed hops are on the way in the days to come. Note also that WinterCoat Oatmeal Stout is a regular keg, not a firkin, meaning that there's room for a handpull. We'll check into our stock on Monday and see what's there.

Good news: The latest allotment of Franconian "Anstich" kegs is in Indianapolis, and you'll begin seeing them next Thursday, December 10. As before, we'll probably tap one on Thursday, two on Friday, and one on Saturday.

Bad news: As many as six of the pre-ordered Saturnalia from Shelton Brothers did not arrive, and probably will not. When I receive confirmation from the company, I'll let you know. Numerous other imported Saturnalia beers are scheduled to arrive from B. United International, and as soon as I receive word, it will passed along.

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