My morning was filled with the Wee Bairn and I driving all over town looking for the illusive St. Arnold Divine Reserve 8.

I camped out at the Spec’s (a large local chain) before they opened this morning at 10. I was not the only one there and we were all sad to hear that they were doubtful that they were going to get any at all. This batch was smaller so there were not as many 6 packs to go around.

After some internal waffling, I decided to race up the freeway 40 minutes to the large Spec’s downtown. I grabbed Gideon and raced into the store only to be faced with the fact that they too were out. I slumped home, sure that this year, I was not going to get the strong scotch ale about which I have been dreaming. I found out later in the day that they sold out of 70 cases in 20 minutes.

I stopped for eggs and milk at the Kroger near my house. On a whim and a prayer, I cruised down the beer aisle. To my joy, the beer guy was putting two cases of Divine Reserve on the shelf. I almost kissed him (he was cute and holding beer, can you blame me?).

Two 6 packs are now resting comfortably in the Rochester fridge.

We will make them last as long as possible.

–Jane, all hail St. Arnold.

Ever since St. Arnold announced this year’s batch would be a Strong Scotch Ale, I have been waiting with bated breath. This week, on September 10th, my patience will be rewarded. I guess Thursday, I will have to go hang out at the liquor store to buy a couple six packs. It sells out fast, so you have to get there early and ask for it. Usually, they do not even bother to put it on the shelves. You have to go ask the beer guy for it.

Here is the YouTube video the brewery put together.

–Jane, slainte!

St. Arnold is up for the Best Down South Craft Brewery in a poll from The Full Pint. Go check out the list of breweries. You might be surprised to find one near you and vote for your favorite.

–Jane, loves a good pint

It is one of my favorite times of year… Oktoberfest time. We have a local brewery in Houston called St. Arnold and they make many delicious seasonal brews. They only brew a finite amount, so often you have to know when the brews are due out and then stalk the local liquor stores. They can disappear pretty quickly.

Last year at this time, I was with child and unable to partake of the seasonal offerings. This year, there are no such restrictions.

Mr. Rochester and I bought the last two six packs at our local store and we gleefully danced out with them. We did spare a second or two for the schmoes who missed the goodness, but our triumph won and we giggled like children in the cookie jar. Only this is much better than cookies.

–Jane, prost!