Fentimans Dandelion & Burdock drink

I found this at World Market here in Chicago and I had no expectations whatsoever seeing as I have no idea what dandelion and/or burdock taste like. Fentiman's is a British company that offers several unique botanically brewed beverages from Victorian Lemonade and Ginger Beer to Shandy and Curiosity Cola.

Dandelion is a flower/weed and burdock is a flower/thistle, but this drink doesn't really taste at all like flowers. Thankfully, the drink is sweetened with pear juice and ginger and anise are also added. The pear and ginger are the two stand-out flavors, but there's a lot more going on. It's certainly not your typical one-note carbonated beverage. This drink is sweet, spicy and refreshing. Definitely a must try!
Overall Grade: B+

Southern Tier Creme Brulee Stout

After reviewing a handful of unique sodas, I finally have a chance to review a unique beer: Southern Tier Creme Brulee Stout. I picked this up at a wine and beer store called Armanetti's here in Chicago, and though it cost $10 for a 22 ounce bottle, this beer was well worth the steep price.


The first deliciously noticeable characteristic of this stout is the smell. The aroma screams caramel and vanilla and it is perhaps the best smelling beer I've ever smelled. After enjoying the sweet aroma for several seconds, I took my first sip and my taste buds were just as satisfied as my sniffer. The vanilla and caramel flavors dominate, but there are also hints of chocolate and coffee. I was surprised to read the 10% ABV on the bottle, as the combination of sweet flavors mask the alcohol pretty well. The sweetness may be overwhelming for some, but just as creme brulee isn't an everyday dessert, this certainly isn't an everyday beer. One glass per sitting was enough for me as this beer is a dessert in and of itself.
Overall Grade: A-