The Midnight Hour

Since the Gourmet Beer Law removed the 6% ABV restriction on Alabama beer, here are the top ten beers you’ll want to try that you couldn’t previously buy in Alabama.

10. Rogue Shakespeare Stout

OK, I cheated. At 6% ABV this was already legal in Alabama…but it’s so good I had to include it anyway. Rogue is one of my favorite breweries, and this is one of my favorite beers. Rogue is located in Newport, Oregon.

9. Terrapin Monk’s Revenge

A one-time release brew, Monk’s Revenge promises to bring the best of a Double India Pale Ale (IPA) and the best of a Belgian Tripel together in one beer. Terrapin Brewing Company out of Athens, Georgia is also one of my favorite breweries. 9.8% ABV

8. Torpedo Extra IPA

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company from Chico, California produces some great brews, and this IPA should be no exception. Introduced in January of 2009, this beer is quickly becoming a favorite among beer lovers. 7.2% ABV

7. Terrapin Big Hoppy Monster

Nothing tastes like a quality red ale with plenty of hops…and nothing tastes quite like Big Hoppy Monster.  8.3% ABV

6. Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

Beer Advocate rates this the 93rd best beer in America. Number 93 sounds like something you get for making the solar system out of styrofoam balls at the science fair, but in a competition comprised of thousands and thousands of beers, the top 100 are all outstanding! Dogfish Head makes a ton of great brews, including it’s 120 minute IPA at 20% ABV which still isn’t legal in Alabama. Dogfish Head Brewery is located in Milton, Delaware. 9% ABV

5. Rogue Double Dead Guy Ale

Rogue Dead Guy Ale is a familiar friend to beer lovers. Ruby Tuesdays generally carries Dead Guy on tap. Double Dead Guy refits the old favorite with 9% ABV for even more punch.

4. Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout

Russian Imperial Stouts aren’t for everyone…sometimes including me. However, Beer Advocate ranks Old Rasputin the 88th best beer on the planet. Produced by North Coast Brewing Company in Fort Bragg, California. 9% ABV

3. Ruination IPA

Named for its “ruinous effect on your palate,” Beer Advocate rates this IPA from Stone Brewing Company in Escondido, California the 78th best beer on the planet. A hoppy, bitter, and bold IPA. 7.7% ABV

2. Rye Squared Imperial Pale Ale

Terrapin Rye Pale Ale is brewed with rye instead of barley, giving the beer an incredibly unique and refreshing taste. Terrapin Rye Squared is exponentially better, and even more potent at 8.5% ABV.

1. Arrogant Bastard Ale

Another fine product of Stone Brewing Company that lives up to the condescending tone on its label (pictured below). At 7.2% ABV with a perfectly-balanced taste, this is a winner for everyone.