I have slacked off in regards to Beer Appreciation, both in writing and tasting. I have had five beers since I last posted about the project, but only one since New Year’s. The new job, a little sickness, leftover beer from our Christmas party and just plain old laziness kept me from dipping into this special case.

I hope to get back on track soon. Until then, here are brief recaps of the ones I have tasted since my last post. I am more than halfway through the case now.

• Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale: One of my favorite beers out there so I give this high marks. It really has a great flavor and packs a punch. We had some for the Christmas party and I took some to the NYE party we attended so I have had more than the one Eric included in the case. I still see it out there so grab some if you are so inclined.
• Troegs Mad Elf: One of the beers I really wanted to try because of its unique nature. Color me unimpressed. I didn’t find it to be a bad beer, but just like No. 12 coming up, I don’t really get that much enjoyment when the ABV gets over 10 percent.
• Pennsylvania Brewing Co. St. Nikolaus Bock: This will rival the Rauchbier for my favorite beer in the case. I posted on Eric’s blog that while Bud Light was prattling on about drinkability, this beer really defined drinkability for me. I would get this beer again in a heartbeat.
• Samichlaus: Same story as the Mad Elf. I’m glad I tried a unique beer like this, but probably wouldn’t ever try it again. Well, maybe because it wasn’t that bad. Maybe I need to find a good food to match with these high ABV beers. I can say this for sure – I could definitely tell the punch it packed half way through the glass.
• Allagash Grand Cru: I had this a week or so ago and honestly don’t recall much about it. I enjoyed it, but nothing really stood out. One of the many beers in this set that I enjoyed and would try again if given the chance, but won’t go looking for.