Delirium Noel

Delirium Noel has replaced Matilda as my favorite beer. Classified as a strong ale from Belgian brewery Brouwerij Huyghe, Noel holds a solid, creamy head and is simply filled with aromatic hops. The season is almost over, but if you see some of this left at the liquor store, change that situation immediately.

7 of 7

pink elephants

in Santa hats

Hop Devil

Hop Devil delivers on its name with a healthy dose of bitter hops. This beer isn't for everyone, but for something different for a beer enthusiast, this is a solid choice.

You'll know it's right for you if you pour it German style for maximum head on purpose.

5 of 7 stars

Binny's Beer Sale, Eliot Ness

To help us all recover from the shock of the hike in Chicago wine and liquor taxes, Binny's has decided to offer us consolation on that oft-overlooked art of brewing. Binny's is having a sale on Midwestern brewery beer. This is a great chance to try Goose Island Matilda that I mentioned a couple of days ago or to refresh your memory if you've already tried it. If you're looking for something different, try Eliot Ness Amber Lager from Great Lakes Brewery, which has an untouchable taste that's well-balanced and crisp.

Eliot Ness Amber Lager

6 of 7 Smile Points (all-star)

Beer Bistro

My wife and I stopped into the Beer Bistro on Madison last night for burgers and beers. She had the bistro burger, which is served with giardiniera, and I had the bacon cheddar burger. Neither of them was as good as the southwest burger she had last time, so when you're there go for that. Now that that's out of the way, on to the main attraction.

The beers on tap at Beer Bistro are continually rotated. There's always something new to try and they pay attention to the consistency and flavor of the beer. They clearly take pride in the beer they serve. (Unlike some other places: I'm looking at you, Boston Blackie's. Guinness in your hands is like matches to a two-year-old.)

The Leffe Brown was very good, with a subtle chocolately and nutty flavor and just the right weight. I'd recommend this beer. On the other hand, the Left Hand Beer Stout (pictured at right) left something to be desired though the head on this beer is surprisingly resilient. I could have turned the beer upside down and used the foam as a coaster.