Sounds good guys. I did a little shopping and picked up a couple "research items". Grabbed an RIS (Ol' Rasputin), Scotch Ale (Belhaven Wee Heavy and McEwan Scotch Ale), Mead (Chaucer's), Barleywine (Avery Hog's Heaven), and a few others. Let me know if you've got any feedback from these selections.
I tried Ol Rasputin and am definitely considering partaking in the 08-08-08. They've got an extract recipe for me posted on AHS already too! Definitely a strong stout that packs a punch and you were right ScubaSteve, I don't think I'd want to try it on an empty stomach. I really enjoyed it though. They come in 4-packs, so I've only got two left!
McEwan was ok, but something put me off a bit, which is weird because I'm a fan of the Scottish Ales I've tried. Tomorrow I think I'll try the mead. My very first mead. I've had honey wine in Hungary but not sure if it's the same as American style.
I've only had one Belgian Strong Blonde (Pranqster) and wasn't a big fan. Let me know if you've got any offerings and I'll give them a shot. I'm always willing to try a new beer.
That's the update folks. I found some carboys on sale for $15 (LHBS sells them for $35) so I'm gonna pick up 2-3 and seriously consider conditioning some of these babies for the long haul. I am so excited. It's ok, WillPall, I don't have the patience either- that's why I'm taking full advantage of me being thousands of miles away from my brew.