Raison D’EtreDogfish Head BreweryFour out of four mugs

Dogfish Head Brewery is renowned in the brewing world for constantly pushing the limits of what beer can be. Brewing up batches of stouts, IPAs and Belgians that clock in around 20 percent alcohol by volume, a brew like Raison D’Etre almost seems mundane. Calling it mundane, however, would be an insult.

Raison D’Etre is a deep red, strong Belgian-styled beer rich in flavor. According to Dogfish Head, the brewers use beet sugar, a traditional Belgian ingredient, along with green raisins and ‘a sense of purpose’ to make this unique brew.

The flavor is rich and smooth, but a bit dry. There are hints of coffee-like roasted grains and brown sugar with mellow fruit flavors of grape and cherry, to name a few. The moderate amount of hops used adds a grassy and earthy taste while expertly balancing the sweetness of the malt, sugar and raisins. Overall, this beer is reminiscent of a nice red wine and can be treated similarly. Serve in a wine glass or chalice and enjoy with a hearty meal with good friends.

If Raison D’Etre simply isn’t enough for someone at 8 percent alcohol, Dogfish Head also makes a stronger seasonally-available Raison D’Extra. Around a whopping 18 percent abv, the Extra is released every March to the delight of beer geeks all over the world.

Beer BitesSierra Nevada Crystal WheatThree out of four mugsA nice mix of earthy European hops and American malts in this unusual wheat beer.

Magic Hat Roxy RollesThree out of four mugsIt’s like Smithwick’s, but better. A creamy and smooth red ale with citrus hops flavor.

Wagner Valley IPAThree out of four mugsBig bitterness, but a lack of sharp hop flavor keeps this from being a truly great IPA.

Dos Equis AmberTwo out of four mugsThe best Mexican beer available here. Tastes like a watered down Sam Adams.

Published on January 30, 2007 at 12:00 pm