Half full or half empty?

January 30, 2012 by Jesse Barrios 

Getting our buzz on at the Winterfest Beer Festival

Having 45 beers within arms’ reach at the 2nd annual Winterfest Beer Festival at Big Dog’s Brewing Co., it’s safe to say most no one left thirsty … or sober.

An official commemorative pint glass purchased for $5 was the device that led the way to 45 reasons why Saturday should go down in infamy.
Tokens could be exchanged for beer samples, at one-fourth pour, half pour or a full pour increments.
The best deal was the start package — for $33, the pint glass and 30 tokens was the key to my evening’s bliss and happiness.
Unfortunately, I don’t have the memory to recall all 45 beers consumed, but here is a small list of Big Dog’s current seasonal brews that I do remember.

Rebel Red American Red (ABV 6.0%)
Properly named, UNLV alum will enjoy a nice smooth, spicy bite with a semi wheat and bitter following. The Rebel Red definitely appeals to all beer drinkers that will have many raising the red flag — in a good way.

Fire Dog Smoked Wheat (ABV 6.2%)
Living up to its name, this is the smokiest, woodsy tasting beer I’ve ever had. To put it simply, Fire Dog is amazing. I felt my desire for a BBQ brisket dinner fulfilled with this one — a unique bold taste that is either hated or loved. Fans of the strong barrel tasting whiskies and beef jerky will definitely have to give this a try. Finally, a savory beer that can be eaten with a steak.

Tyrone! My Man! Black IPA (ABV 7.5%)
A smooth dark IPA that combined sweet and bitter for flavoring. I’m not a fan of IPAs but this was one that I could see myself trying again. IPA drinkers who also enjoy dark beers will need to add this to their list.

Sled Dog Imperial Stout (ABV 9.5%)
A dark strong beer that resembles Guinness when poured. Like a Guinness, Sled Dog needs time to settle before drinking. A thick creamy head tops the beer that leads to a sharp clear taste like a Guinness served at the right temperature. Sled Dog Imperial is an Irish dark beer on a budget with all the great taste and alcohol content as well!

Dunkel Weizenbock (ABV 7.0%)
The Dunkel definitely had a lighter flavoring the rest. A not-so-heavy beer that could keep any beer pong game going. Although not officially a light beer due to ABV and calories, the Dunkel Weizenbock is a stepping stone for all Bud Light drinkers that are afraid to jump up to the Tyrone’s and Fire Dog beers.

On a side note, this beer fest wasn’t all about getting sloshed. Whenever a “Dunkel Weizenbock” or “Tyrone! My Man! Black IPA” was ordered, one dollar was donated to the Las Vegas chapter of the Humane Society of the United States. If you missed this chance for charity work, the next beer festival will be on April 28, for the “Peace, Love & Hoppy-ness.”