Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy. -- Ben Franklin

Inaugural Beer of the Week

Posted by Rob on Feb 11, 2008 - 09:23 am

Rogue’s HazelNut Brown Nectar. That’s right. They said “Nectar.”

This weekend, a few friends and I headed over to Mellow Mushroom for some brews, pretzels, and general merriment. (If you haven’t had the pretzels, get there and grab some ASAP (the Parmesan version, with marinara dipping sauce)). Anyway, when we arrived, I demanded that they all try a pint of the this week’s selection. After a few sips, all four announced that the Nectar was one of the best beers they’d ever had. We’re talking Top 5.

“So,” you’re thinking, “what’s so great about this brew?” The name says it all. This sweet, smooth brown ale has a delicious roasted hazelnut taste and just the right amount of bitterness. The flavors hide the alcohol very well, considering that it’s 6.2 %.  All in all it’s an extremely well balanced, easily drinkable beer. Most importantly, this is the first time that I’ve seen this beer on tap at the ‘Shroom, so make your way down there and grab a pint before it runs out. In case you’ve never been, it’s also worth noting that most beers at Mellow Mushroom are $3.50/pint—a great deal for their incredible selection, which happens to be the best in town.

If you’re looking for another libation to try at the ‘Shroom after you’ve depleted your nutty ambrosia, check out Highland’s Black Mocha Stout, Fuller’s London Porter, or Dogfish Head’s 90-Minute IPA. I’ll warn you—the 90-Minute is a bit strong (9% alcohol). You might want to ask the bartender for a sample before you delve into a full 16-oz’er. Then again, if you’re a fan of hoppier, more bitter beers like Pale Ale’s and IPA’s, then you’ll absolutely love it.

P.S. The Mellow Mushroom, at least the Winston location, serves beer in frosty pint glasses. One little problem: the colder a beer is, the more it numbs your taste buds. There’s a reason why beers from macro breweries like Bud and Miller are poured near absolute zero. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for an unfrosted glass: it’ll make sure you get the most out of every last drop. Slainte!