A 1998 Anchor Christmas Ale from dinner last night at Gramercy Tavern.
They have an incredible vintage beer menu there — I don’t know of anyone else doing something like that. It’s really great. We also had the 2001 Hitachino Nest Celebration Ale, and the 2003 Brooklyn Chocolate Stout. The Brooklyn was the first “vintage” beer I’ve ever had. At the brewery tour last month, we were able to compare the 2003 and 2007. I’m definitely going to pick up a case (if I can find it — my local deli still claims it’s on order) of their 2007 Chocolate Stout to set aside for a couple of years…
We also had the Hitachino Nest Sweet Stout which is really nice. It reminds me a lot of the vintage Brooklyn, but definitely not as sweet or strong, maybe closer to Keegan’s Mothers’ Milk, but with a stronger coffee flavor. I’ve been really impressed with Hitachino lately. They started brewing that beer label in 1996 “with a hint of our traditional sake brewing method.” Their Red Rice Ale is another one to try.
Lots of great beer and great food. I’m already planning the drink menu for my return visit. All in all, I think the ‘98 Christmas Ale may have been the winner of the night. I just wish I had tried the 2003 for a comparison.
