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Jim Koebel

Jim Koebel's picture
Grand Master Beer Judge

Jim is a Grand Master beer judge and former Associate Exam Director for the Beer Judge Certification Program. He began enjoying good beer in the mid aughts and started homebrewing shortly thereafter. Regardless of style, Jim is always on the lookout for breweries that are good at what they do.

 

   

My reviews

Inceptus

Judges Rating:
84
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
21 / 24
Flavor:
34 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20

Moderate lactic and buttery aromas rise from this American Wild Ale, which take on more of a background character that's damp and earthy as it warms. This beer pours an opaque orange color, though there is no visible sediment. The white head disappears instantly – not uncommon in this style. The... Read More

Butta Cup

Butta Cup by Funky Buddha Brewery
Judges Rating:
75
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
18 / 24
Flavor:
30 / 40
Mouthfeel:
7 / 10
Overall Impression:
14 / 20

Butta Cup is a Double Brown Ale with added flavors, judged as BJCP Category 34C, Experimental Beer.  This beer starts with a burst of chocolate and peanut butter-like aromas, which hint at sweetness. They smell almost like kids' cereal at first, but become more subdued after a moment. A low... Read More

Aspall Grand Cru (Organic)

Aspall Grand Cru (Organic)

United Kingdom
Aspall Grand Cru (Organic), Aspall Cyder House
Description 

Rich, golden colour. Traditional bittersweet cyder-apple aroma with orchard fruit and floral notes. Palate initially slightly sweet, then mouthfilling and full bodied. Complex array of fruit flavours balanced by gorgeous soft tannins, producing a bone dry finish.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
6.8%

 

 


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Judges Rating:
95
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20

Aspall Grand Cru by Aspall Cider House (Organic) is  being judged as an English Cider, BJCP Category C1B. This cider is petillant and crystal clear. Its mellow aroma consists of apple and fruity acidity. It tastes mildly sweet with restrained fruity flavor, reminiscent of pear. The aftertaste is... Read More

Philly Special

Philly Special

Pennsylvania
United States
Philly Special, Iron Hill Brewery
Description 

This hazy beer may be considered a New England IPA, but its inspiration is pure Philly. Brewed with flaked oats and wheat, this beer features tropical fruit and resinous pine notes almost as intense as your passion for the home team. Whether you’re cracking one open at a tailgate or in your living room, you can just taste the brotherly love.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
6.7%
IBUs: 
16

 

 


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Judges Rating:
88
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
21 / 24
Flavor:
35 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20

Philly Special by Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant is a New England IPA brewed by Iron Hill Brewing, judged as BJCP Category 21B. Classic West Coast hops make up the aroma of this beer and include pine, lemon and resin. There's a note of passion fruit as well. The aroma overall is subdued. It... Read More

Liliko'i Kepolo

Liliko'i Kepolo
Judges Rating:
90
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
35 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20

A vacation in a glass, this cloudy, bright yellow beer contains a host of tropical fruit characteristics. Its aroma is alive with juicy grapefruit, lemon zest, coriander, pineapple, and white pepper. The flavor follows suit and jumps with passion fruit, light sweetness and pleasant acidity. The... Read More

Weekender

Weekender

Massachusetts
United States
Weekender, ZēLUS Beer Co.
Description 

Weekender is the perfect companion for your adventures. A pronounced malt-forward biscuit-like flavor from the Munich and Vienna malts, and subtly hopped with Hallertau to epitomize this German-Style lager. After you satisfy your appetite for adventure, reach for a Weekender!

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
5.3%
IBUs: 
25
Served at: 
40 - 45º F
Malts: 
Two-Row Pale Malt, Munich Malt, Vienna Malt, Carafoam
Hops: 
Hallertau Mittelfrueh

 

 


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Judges Rating:
94
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

Weekender by Zelus Beer Co. was judged as Category 4A, Munich Helles.

This beer is crystal clear and golden-colored with a tall, fluffy, white head. Bready, crackery malt aromas dominate the aroma, which overall is mild and pleasant. There is a low, spicy hop aroma in the background. Pils... Read More

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