At first, I didn’t want to do it. My friend Eric Trimmer from the Trouble Brewing blog was looking for people to take part in what he calls “Beer Appreciation.” In short, people pitch in to buy 24 cases of beer, then everyone gets one beer from each case. This way you can try some interesting and limited edition beers without having to buy a whole case thanks to PA’s stupid liquor laws.

I passed when he first asked, but then he needed some people to fill out the roster because he got more than 24, but less than 48 volunteers. I saw this as a sign from Bacchus that I needed to take part.

Well, Eric picked up the beers over the weekend, and I got my case Monday. The new mascot for the Man Cave, Buster the deer, guards my treasure in the photo. He keeps me company and gives me someone to complain to when the refs make a crappy call.

I’ll occasionally post my thoughts on the beers. I have only had one of them prior to getting this case – the Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale. I don’t usually get into porters and stouts, but I’ll give the ones in the case a try and see if it changes my opinion on them. But I cannot wait for some of these ales and lagers. Mmmm, ale and lager.