Phil and the lovely Kimberlee recently headed out to north-west Illinois to visit the Galena Territory area. On the way they stopped by Lena Brewing and got an interview with brewers Tim and Andy, tasted some  samples and brought a selection of bombers back for show tastings.

With John Karwoski’s help, Mark and I try their 38° Hefe — 5.8% ABV 13 IBU, one of their most popular summer brews. This is followed by Póg Mo Thóin, Amber Ale – 4.5% ABV, 20 IBU.  We will have reviews of some of their other offerings in another show.

We then head to Generations Brewing, in Freeport IL, and bring back a couple of howlers of their special offerings.  Ken McMullen from Hopvine Brewing is on-hand to help us taste these and we start with Cherry Czar, a Russian Imperial Stout with cherry puree, 10.4% ABV, 58 IBU.
Last up is Tawny Ale, an oak-aged Irish strong ale, 6.9%, 22 IBU.
Play the show from our player below