Our Special Ale 2009

Last night they played some college basketball game named after Jim Valvano and his V Foundation for Cancer Research. They showed lots of clips and tributes from friends and family and colleagues, and they also replayed his speech from the 1993 ESPY Award ceremony where he announced the creation of this Foundation just a few weeks before he died. Very touching and emotional ceremony. Jimmy V should be part of the required curriculum in our schools! So pay attention, and see how many (young) faces you recognize from 16 years ago, too.



Tonight I'm drinking Our Special Ale 2009 brewed by Anchor Brewing in San Francisco, California. This is their 35th Christmas Ale, and each year they use a different recipe for their creation. I love this brewery! The label has a beautiful tree on it.

The aroma is full of spices, smells like a gingerbread man with ginger and cinnamon, and it's nice and sweet. I think I smell a little pine as well, but that could just be my desire. Lovely aroma. The flavors are really good to start! They will remind you everything Christmas, from the cookies to the tree to your family. Sweet and malty with loads of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and even cloves. There are also some caramel and light chocolate flavors, too, and maybe a hint of licorice. A bit of hops keeps the malt and spices honest and blends terrifically in this beer. Very smooth. Medium carbonation is also a positive, just right. Excellent holiday beer that you should check out before it's gone!

The Gifts of Jimmy V: A Coach's Legacy

Pink Snuggie Blanket - Purchase BenefitsThe Breast Cancer Research Foundation

No Cure for Cancer--Denis Leary