In some respects I’m reluctant to write a review on a beer whose characteristics likely changed during an extended period of improper storage. However, this beer was GOOD and deserves to be mentioned. The best way to describe it would an “un” pale ale. Going beyond the obvious (it’s a lager not an ale), the beer was dark like a brown ale, smooth and maltly like a stout, and carried the aroma of cascade hops with virtually no bitterness. The aroma of the hops carried through the actual drinking of the beer leaving you with a pleasant after taste that was more of a memory than an actual flavor.  Topped with a firm silky head, this beer deserved better than to be poured unceremoniously into a paper cup. Oh well, who knew I was going to like it. I was just thirsty.

I would love to know what this beer tasted like when it was fresh.  Maybe I’ll find one someday.   At least I know that if I don’t like it that way I can bury it in my hot garage for a few years and have a diamond for my trouble.

UPDATE: They are back…but its just not the same. Stupid Katrina.

Faithful friends gathered drunkenly here today, I bring to you a review of joy and sadness. It is both a highlight of beer drinking, and a sad eulogy for an era gone by. And more and more sad southern preacher talk. Because the beer I have the sad pleasure of bringing you today stands as the best beer I’ve ever tasted. Dixie Blackened Voodoo. It is one of only two “six” rated beers I have ever had, and stands out so high on the list that I would bathe in the stuff…if I could get it ever again.

Which is why I carry the undertone of sadness. You see, thanks to that lovable hurricane we call Katrina, the Dixie Brewing Company was flooded and trashed. Then, because humans are such good creatures by nature, looters and thieves began breaking in and stealing all the equipment. NPR has the tale here. They claim they will be back in October of 2007, and I sincerely hope they do.

Blackened Voodoo is so yummy its hard to describe. Its jet black, super smooth, and drinks like an alcoholic Coke. I used to get these from the bar in Claim Jumper over and over again. Only the fact that I despised waiting in line for an hour to eat kept me from going more.

If the Dixie Brewing Company makes a comeback and begins to flow the voodoo again, I command you (by poking your little doll with sharp needles…voodoo get it?) to get one.