[phillamb168]

Sorry for the huge poll. It's time again to start planning for my huge summer bash (if any of you are in the area July 1st, let me know, you're welcome to attend). We're expecting around 50 people or so, got some live bluegrass scheduled, lots of food, etc.

This year I wanted to take advantage of a new KeyKeg connector to have a commercial beer on hand pump/beer engine. But I don't know enough about the American beers available to me to make a good decision. I've included a few non-US beers as well.

What do you think?

[erockrph]

What kind of tastes does the crowd have in beer? I'd go with an IPA if they can handle some bitterness, or an APA if they might shy from the bite.

[cheshirecat]

I would go with the Oatmeal Stout or Boont Amber. I've had the Oatmeal on pump before and it is a really perfect beer for it. Boont amber would also lend itself to a hand pump but my first choice would be e Oatmeal. Have fun, looks like it is going to be a great party!!!

[redbeerman]

A bluegrass band in France.  That sounds like it may be interesting, unless, of course, they are ex-pats from Kentucky.

[Hokerer]

A bluegrass band in France.  That sounds like it may be interesting, unless, of course, they are ex-pats from Kentucky.

They'll play bleugrass

[phillamb168]

LOL bleugrass. Well the lead singer is from Texas.

Crowd tastes are highly varied. What is the Boont amber like? How bitter/roasted/etc? And the Oatmeal? I've never had either of them.

[Mark G]

I've never had their oatmeal stout, but I highly recommend the amber. One of my favorites of that style. It's been a while since I've had it, but from what I recall, it's well balanced, with just enough bitterness to balance out the malt sweetness. It would definitely please a wide variety of palates, from those who aren't big beer drinkers to the beer geeks in the crowd.

[phillamb168]

I finally ended up going with Boont Amber. Eh. I was not terribly impressed with it - should have gone w/ Op & Top, honestly. Not worth the 150 Eur price tag.

[Mark G]

I finally ended up going with Boont Amber. Eh. I was not terribly impressed with it - should have gone w/ Op & Top, honestly. Not worth the 150 Eur price tag.

Bummer. Sorry for the recommendation. Maybe it doesn't travel well.