Rick’s interest in beer styles and brewing began in 1975, as a part of an interest in the culinary arts but his education in beer styles began with an introduction to Michael Jackson’s “The World Guide To Beer”. In those days imported beers were hard to come by to say the least. As that began to change, his appreciation and interest in various beer styles grew stronger. Some styles remained hard to find, so in 1991, Rick began home brewing. To increase his knowledge of the brewing process he became a member of the Cincinnati Malt Infusers homebrew club in 1996, where he served as Program Director and helps to conduct an annual BJCP exam prep class. Rick became a BJCP judge in 2004 and has risen to the rank of National. But most importantly, he loves beer! After all these years, he remains fascinated with the varied aroma and flavor experiences a beer can provide.
Citra Cannon by Heavy Seas Beer was judged as an American IPA, BJCP category 21A.
The aroma presents a moderately high level of lemons and kumquats with some additional pithy citrus character and just a hint of dankness. The style calls for at least a low level of malt character in the... Read More
Grainy malt is joined by low-level toasty notes before the spicy hop character takes over. Pouring a hazy, polished copper color topped with a big, frothy, off-white head, the clean fermentation is immediately apparent, with no sulfur or DMS elements. The grainy and toasty malt carries through... Read More
Pumpkin Spice Donut by Wild Leap Brew Co. was judged as BJCP Category 30B, Autumn Seasonal Beer with 26C, Belgian Tripel as the base style.
The beer opens with a really nice blend of pumpkin pie spice at near-equal balance of clove, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper... Read More
Tastes Like Beer by Low Road Brewing was judged as an American Lager, BJCP category 1B. The aroma opens with a moderate amount of bready malt and some lower levels of lightly spicy hops and a touch of floral. Maybe a slight touch of sulfur but otherwise a very clean... Read More
Double Sunshine Ruby Red Grapefruit by Lawson's Finest Liquids was judged as a BJCP category 29A, Fruit Beer, with 22A, Double IPA, as the base style.
Copious amounts of fresh grapefruit jump out of the glass. There are some accompanying citrus notes of lemon... Read More
Spot Coffee Stout by Flying Bison Brewing Co. was judged as BJCP category 30A Spice, Herb, Vegetable Beer
Coffee and roasted malts initially dominate the aroma but are eventually accompanied by a creamy impression. Rich coffee with cream is anticipated. Dark brown color with great clarity... Read More
