I once heard that No Label Brewing Co. had baby changing stations in their restrooms. It’s true, they really do. Being the city dweller, non-conformist, no babies for me type of guy, I had always been a little hesitant about visiting NLBC. I mean their every daily line up of beers are good beers, but going to the brewery? No thanks, if I wanted to kick it with a bunch of people double fisting a Hefe and a “binky” gossiping about HOA’s and the latest Pixar film, I could crash the closest Chili’s. Plus, there is probably something in the water, right? Those were my thoughts before I went to Katy and visited the brewery. John showed me around and we drank some beer. If you have never met John, he is one of the nicest and coolest cats in the industry. The whole NLBC team was very friendly, and the vibe was cool, and relaxing. The real gem was finding out all the beers they make and are not available outside the brewery! Sons of anarchy… Have I been missing out on this? Yes, yes I have. Well, I am now a believer, and will be back here again soon. Oh, and the water is fine FYI… I tried it too.
Kiwi Wit 8.0
ABV: 5.5%
IBU: 14
This thing came out light and bright like an 8 year old genius. If you want over the top fruit or sweet, then this isn’t for you my friend. It does leave you with a little kiwi on the finish. This was a well done Pro-Am by James Carlyle and is available only at the Alamo Draft House or the brewery.
Forbidden Lavender Wit 7.8
ABV: 5.2%
IBU: 20
Here is the 2nd release of the Off Label Series. It not too floral on the nose, but you really pick up that lavender on the back side. This is like the Channing Tatum of beers, it’s not really my thing, but it’s obvious why the ladies love it. Sorry ladies, this doesn’t have a six pack, but next year you could see them out in 22oz bombers.
Storm Cellar Saison 8.6
ABV: 7.2%
IBU: 15
Rye Saison. A nice showing on this one. Great head, the 7.2% is well hidden in this complex yet crisp and satisfying brew. It will end up as part of the seasonal release, and I can’t wait to enjoy this on the back deck with a nice grilled redfish.
Cascade Hop Solo (Pale Ale) 8.3
ABV: 5.3%
IBU: 36
They went all in pre-flop with Aces and almost beg you to call them. Single Hop (cascade) and single malt (2 row). Nice creamy head, clean citrus nose, and finishes a little woody. No false advertising here, It is what is. You either like this style or not, but it is a solid rendition.
Nightmare on 1st Street 9.3
ABV: 9.3%
IBU: 15
Deep amber with a toasted almond head. Nose is rich with pumpkin, and you get a little pumpkin all spice on the finish. This is a top seed pumpkin beer of any kind of any brewer in any state.
Black Wit-O 8.2
ABV: 6.5%
IBU: 14
Looks great in a glass! Espresso in color with a nutty looking head. Made with chocolate wheat. Nice amount of anise on the finish. Great fall beer for Texas, because you need a full flavor beer without the weight in the 85 degree weather.
Eleven Amp IPA 8.5
ABV: 7.2%
IBU: 62
This is the newest year round release. Every brewery looking for success in the retail world needs to have a solid IPA and they have met the mark. It will soon be in every set in the city and trying to compete with El Hefe for the top selling 6 pack in their everyday line up.
Perpetual Peace 9.6
ABV: 11.62%
IBU: 24
I just Kant even! This is the second year they have made this barrel aged Wee Heavy, but the first time it has been offered in a bottle. This year they used Wild Turkey barrels. I am of the belief that if they plan on making this beer this good, then they should just rename it Perpetual Lust. When I drank this beer my eyes rolled back in my head and my toes curled. This thing is rich and full bodied like Selma Hayek and I could have enjoyed this for hours, but then it was over. Damn.
