Brewery Feature: Cigar City!

It's pretty impressive that just after 3 years from opening, Cigar City Brewing has become the producers of some of the most highly elusive beers in the States. This brewery boasts a number of standard American styles; but with unique twists. From aging IPAs, to the most unusual additions to their Imperial Stout, Cigar City definitely puts out some interesting & amazing beers.

Their flagship beer, Jai Alai, is what most would consider a "standard" IPA. However Cigar City steps out of the norm with a unique approach to presenting an IPA, by aging it and even more interesting, on cedar wood. Thus, the Humidor Series: Cedar Aged Jai Alai results in a particularly pungent citrus hop presence and a uniqueness from the cedar wood, with a delicate dry finish, and one of the most unfiltered beers that I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. You really have to taste it to appreciate it's uniqueness and delicate undertones.

 Humidor Jai Alai 7.5%abv

Another standard offering that in turn has it's own unique twist is their Marshal Zhukov Russian Imperial Stout. This RIS was as viscous as could be with strong chocolate notes and an incredibly creamy mouth feel. I am under the impression that I received a bottle from a batch that was said to be under carbonated. I really don't doubt it, considering the thick, milkshake mouth feel, but regardless, it was still rather enjoyable.

 Marshal Zhukov Russian Imperial Stout; 11.5%abv

Thankfully, the "limited" edition of the Marshal Zhukov provided much redemption for it's base beer. Hunahpu's Imperial Stout may very well be the best Imperial Stout that I have ever had. With an already rich and creamy base, this version is brewed with Ancho & Pasilla Chilles, Peruvian Cocoa Nibs, Madagascar Vanilla beans, and cinnamon. This beer had so much complexity yet was incredibly balanced, and despite the high alcohol, it was very drinkable. Every ingredient described on the label was present at some point in this beer; truly an amazing feat to accomplish. This beer will be fairly hard to obtain, as it is an annual, brewery only release. However, it is definitely worth the effort if you are a fan of Imperial Stouts!

 Hunahpu's Imperial Stout; 11.5%abv

Growing up in Hawaii, guava juice was always a favorite of mine and when I first read about this beer I knew I had to try it. For the most part, this beer follows the guidelines of a traditional Saison,  but with the addition of Guava fruit came an increase in fullness of body and an almost pulpy mouthfeel. With a nice tartness & fair Guava presence, this beer was very unique and enjoyable.

Guava Grove Saison; 8%abv