Cut Out Kid

Cellar Dweller: 2015 Begyle Brewing “Dr. Dreidel’s Imperial Chanukah Porter”

This cellar dweller pulled out a special beer for the church book club discussion of How To Be An AntiRacist by Ibram X. Kendi.

A bomber of Begyle Brewing’s “Dr. Dreidel’s Imperial Chanukah Porter, from 2015.” I wanted something big enough to stand up to the tough conversation that lay ahead, but approachable enough for anyone to drink, especially after this challenging and enlightening read.

Begyle’s barrel-aged collaboration with, brewer and chef, Cleetus Freidman was just what the doctor ordered. Silky, rich, boozy, but just the right amount of all three. Great lacing on the glass, light smoke on the nose, and smooth sailing on the palette.

I love that porters aren’t as viscous as stouts. Brewers don’t seem to barrel them as much, so when they do, I’m buying and trying. This one was aged for nearly five years, and on this night, it’s drinking well.

Dr. Dreidel’s Imperial Chanukah Porter, from 2015, definitely helped cut the deep conversation, and so did the monster cookies that Bud made. They might be the best cookies I’ve ever had? Wait a second, didn’t I give those up for lent?