Some of us got together on the day of “The Big Game” to take in some football, fellowship and brewing at Mark’s Man Cave (MMC). (No, I’m not going to throw that stuff at you again.) As much as I protested about having to perform brew duties at yet another event where everyone else sits around while I take care of the beer business, I was reminded that brewing beer was the sole purpose for which I have been and continue to be invited to events such as these. (If they would just offer to assist in any way once in a while. I’d be happy with them taking a slight interest in the process – faking it if need be. But no, “Gimme my beer!” is the pervasive attitude with this bunch. Not sure why I even bother. Guess it gives me something to do once in a while.)
Anyway, as much as I tried to appeal to the slightest hint of empathy and understanding from this bunch, none was to be had and it was decreed that I must get my brew on at this event – which means my participation in viewing “The Big Game” was minimal. In addition, they attempted to play on my emotions by getting overly excited at faux plays by hooping and hollering and then giggle like school girls as I might run over to see what was going on. News flash: I have just two emotions: Hungry and Tired. They were not given the satisfaction of an intriguing response from me. I know better. Besides, I am a responsible brewer who takes the duties seriously. Why would I abandon the kettle to go see what these chuckle heads were up to? I guess it was a good game from what I hear – but I wouldn’t know. Thanks guys.
The problem really was with the lack of pastor supervision at the event. Although two were invited, a total of zero thought it worthwhile to put in the effort to show. Oh yes, excuses were given and perhaps you have heard these before:
A man (Mark) once gave a great banquet (Big Game Gathering), and invited many; and at the time of the banquet (Game) he sent his servant (emails) to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. Yet another said, ‘The keg of Belgian Quad is about to be depleted and since it will probably be gone, I will not come.‘
Well fellas, the Quad was not gone and three additional Fieldpointe brews were available to keep the festivities lively (and tolerable). In addition to Mark’s assorted delicacies of nuts and shrimps, Dave brought two pizza pies. These along with the libations ensured that a good time was had by all (who attended).
‘For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my (Mark, David and Jerry’s) banquet. For many are called, but few are chosen.’
This brings me to the real reason of gathering: the beer. Because of the season, Mark’s Dorothy Doors don’t get much attention this time of year. How to make them still feel appreciated and part of the action during the off season? Answer: Doppelbock! Let’s use the cold to our advantage. Lagers make very rare appearances due to the advanced methods of temperature control needed. This is just the 3rd one attempted. The previous two were Maibocks brewed the past two spring breaks (March). No high tech temp control is used. Whatever the ambient garage temp happens to be at the time has to do. Last year it was on the warmer side but it still turned out OK. The 3rd rendition of Maibock will be brewed soon.
We don’t know what the temp is underneath the Dorothy Doors. I suppose a thermometer would be useful – but only if Mark knew how to read one. He has given up on using many of his life skills – he asks Alexa to do most of his thinking these days.
It is still on the cold side here in southeast WI so this is purely an experiment to see what happens. Provided Mark can leave his hands off, it will be left alone under the doors for the next month to 6 weeks. Wait and see will have to be the strategy employed here.
This brew session went extract to aide in ease and time so at least a few minutes of “The Big Game” could be viewed by this guy. (I think I remember seeing a commercial or two.)
Malts
- Golden Malt LME – 6.6 lb
- Munich Malt LME – 3.3 lb
- Pilsen Light DME – 3 lb
Hops
- Hallertauer Mittelfruh – 2 oz (60 min)
Yeast
- Fermentis Saflager W-34/70 – 2 packs
Projected Analysis
- OG – 1.073
- FG – 1.017
- ABV – 7.77%
- IBU – 29.1
- SRM – 8.1°
Here’s hoping for warmer weather soon!
