Tom: Extremely earthy and not overly sweet. Comes on very strong and just as your expecting that bitter drymouth you get from most IPAs, it finishes wet and refreshing. Definitely not a beer for your yellow-gargling sissies, but also not something you'll choke on after a few sips. 4.4/5

Grimbergen Double Ale

Rat: The "double" refers to the fact that it has gone two fermentations. As a result, this beer has a thick foamy texture to it, kind of like head but not that foamy. Also, its got a sweeter malty taste; its not bitter at all. I think I would like this beer in the winter. Consistent with the previous statement, I would not like it while sitting on a sunny beach. I guess I would reccomend trying it so you experience this double fermentation business, but I think I prefer single fermentation over all. 2.5/5

Arrogant Bastard Ale

Kyle: Very hoppy, but a thoutful spectrum of hoppy, instead of just overly bitter for bitter's sake. I'd compare it to Flying Dog's "Doggie Style" pale, but with a little too much fruity-bitter (cranberry, I guess). Still, the fact that I can draw Flying Dog comparisons makes Arrogant Bastard a champ in my book. The Bastard's cheeky too:

"This is an aggressive beer. You probably won’t like it. It is quite doubtful that you have the taste or sophistication to be able to appreciate an ale of this quality and depth. Maybe you should stick to safer and more familiar territory - maybe something with a multi-million dollar ad campaign aimed at convincing you it's made in a little brewery, or one that implies that their tasteless fizzy yellow beer will give you more sex appeal. Perhaps you think multi-million dollar ad campaigns make a beer taste better. Perhaps you're mouthing your words as you read this." 4.8/5.0

Shipyard Pumpkinhead

Rat: I don't like fruit (or vegetable) flavored beers usually because I think they do a diservice to the beer and to the fruit at the same time. However, of the flavored beers I've tried (cherry wheat, apricot, and other crap) this one was probably the best. Its got a mild pumpkin taste thats not overbearing, and that compliments the bitterness and sweetness of the ale. I would recommend trying a bottle or six pack but not going much more than that. 3/5

Samuel Smith's India Ale

Kyle: Wikipedia says it's an "independent" brewer. Don't know if that's quite a microbrewery. I had it at the Clay Pit, an Indian restaurant in Austin. It was hardly bitter at all, kinda surprisingly sweet for an IPA. Like banana nut bread. I didn't get much of an aroma. But my nose was runny from the curry. Gold foil around the neck makes me feel like I'm being bought. 2.7/5.0