First Course: Oaked Arrogant Bastard paired with Beemster Extra
Second Course: Imperial Russian stout paired with Roquefort
Third Course: Old Guardian Barleywine paired with Shaft’s Goldmine Blue
Fourth Course: Saison paired with Mobay
Fifth Course: Smoked Porter paired with Cave Aged Gruyere
Sixth Course: Sublimely Self-Righteous Black IPA paired with Aged Mahon
Seventh Course: Ruination IPA paired with Young Mahon
Palate cleansers consisting of grapes, melon, and bread were placed in front of us guests, but the pairings were so spot on that these palate cleaners were hardly needed. Strong emphasis on cutting power and contrast was apparent, and it was a nice surprise to find out that these delicious pairings came about almost as a whim. The cheeses were chosen first and then a member at Stone suggested the beers that were to be served along with them. The items had not been together beforehand but they got along like they had been working together for years. One of the most intriguing pairings for me was the Saison with Mobay. The resonance with those two was so utterly perfect that it felt as though they were made exactly for each other.
Last but not least, guests could purchase or bring their well used book, IPA: Brewing Techniques, Recipes and the Evolution of India Pale Ale and get it signed by the author himself, Mitch Steele. Not wanting to miss out, I purchased a copy myself and spoke a bit with Mitch as he signed the book.
All in all this was a delightful and educational event. Thank you Kalamazoo Beer Exchange for hosting, and for those of you who have not been there before, check out their website for more information about future fun beer savvy events.
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1st Course 1st Course
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2nd Course 2nd Course
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3rd Course 3rd Course
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4the Course 4the Course
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5th Course 5th Course
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7th Course 7th Course
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Gonzo's Biggdogg Brewers chatting w/ Mitch Steele Gonzo's Biggdogg Brewers chatting w/ Mitch Steele
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Signed by the Author! Signed by the Author!
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Kelly St. Louis and Mitch Steele presenting 1st Course Kelly St. Louis and Mitch Steele presenting 1st Course
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Our list of courses for the evening Our list of courses for the evening
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Palate Cleanser Plate Palate Cleanser Plate