May 15, 2008
Chicagoist's "Beer of the Week:" Bell's Kalamazoo Royal Amber Ale
A conversation we had with our downstairs neighbor and good friend last night as we were preparing to clean out Sam's Wine and Spirits out of what was left of their closeout sale:
Her: Have you tried this beer yet?
Chicagoist: What is it?
Her: Kalamazoo Royal Amber Ale.
Chicagoist: I have.
Her: What does it taste like?
Chicagoist: Bell's Amber.
Her: Why do you say that?
Chicagoist: Because that's what it is.
You really have to give the propers to Larry Bell. While other companies repackage the same stuff under a different name, he went out and essentially announced that he would and was applauded for his efforts (now is as good a time as any to remind you to re-read Karl's interview with Larry Bell).
Bell's or Kalamazoo, a pint of this warmed us upon our return from New Glarus over the weekend at Skylark. One sip reminded us of the sweet malt, rich amber hue, and bitter finish we missed last spring in that time frame when Bell's was unavailable in Illinois. It was the perfect complement to a medium rare Skylark burger.
So, for being reminded of the simple things in life and for Larry Bell's chutzpah, we're naming Kalamazoo Royal Amber Ale Chicagoist's "Beer of the Week."
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From the earlier linked interview: "LB: These are new products. They're different recipes, they have their own unique flavor profiles.
While they do seem quite similar to my unrefined taste buds, I don't think it's fair to say it tastes like Bell's Amber "Because that's what it is."
I agree. While it's certainly closer to Bell's Amber than it is to Coors Light, it does have its own unique flavor.
If I remember correctly (and that's up for debate as I had quite a few of them the one time I've had the pleasure of tasting the new Kalamazoo beer--at the Midnight Juggernauts show) it has a slightly spicier flavor than the Bell's Amber.
So when can we get an updated list of the locations with Kalamazoo on tap?
Being a Kalamazoo native....... I want my beer!
Well, I can tell you that Double Door is now on the list.
I've had it at Motel Bar
Ted Theodore Logan, Kalamazoo native #2 here!
I know it's been said, but the name game with Bell's v. Kalamazoo Beer is just upsetting. Still, I love Bell's Beer.
Empty Bottle, too.
I saw this for sale at Whole Foods this week for nearly $10 for a six-pack. The old Bell's amber used to go for $7 or $8. I know it's good beer and all, but the inflation is annoying.
I was extremely delighted when 2 weeks ago my wife sent me a text message from the UP letting me know that she was going to be traveling back home with 3 six-packs of Bell's Amber.
If, as you say, Kalamazoo is close to Amber we'll have to give it a try.
Thanks for the post- I read the interview with Larry Bell several months ago, but didn't know K-zoo beers were available yet.
And speaking of closeout sales, I looked at Binny's website- they currently have Kalamazoo Amber on sale for $5.99/six pack. I called the local store and the clerk said "Oh man, that must be a mistake- I'd better get some for myself!" But sure enough, it was true!
south loop - hackney's has it.
i have yet to imbibe however. :-(