Hello! To continue on the theme of seasonal holiday ales, I'm pairing a Very Bad Elf Special Reserve Ale from Ridgeway Brewing and Elf's self-titled debut album!
Released in 1972, "Elf" is the debut album by Ronald Padavona (aka Ronnie James Dio) and his heavy blues rock outfit known as Elf. The latter version of this band (sans the guitarist) would become the first incarnation of Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow by the way. In the tradition of the Rolling Stones, Humble Pie, and the Faces, Elf embodied a true, blues-based, heavy rock, bar-room sound. Songs like "Hoochie Koochie Lady," "First Avenue," "I'm Coming Back For You," "Sit Down Honey (Everything Will Be Alright)," "Dixie Lee Junction," and "Gambler Gambler" are raw, raunchy, and full of soul with a touch of honky-tonk. If not for the great tunes, this is a must own for any Dio fan for a chance to hear his early work.
Ridgeway Brewing's Very Bad Elf Special Reserve Ale is an English Pale Ale (EPA). Poured in a pint glass, the Very Bad Elf reveals a medium copper complexion with a thick, frothy head. The nose combines a malty and bready bouquet with citrusy and bitter hop elements along with some hints of honey and black tea. With a 7.5% ABV, the Very Bad Elf is a bit boozier than I expected, definitely boozier in flavor than most EPAs I've had, but still a good, solid brew. It is also sweeter than most EPAs, toffee, malt, and red apple notes mingle with more subtle hop flavors. It finishes clean, but with some smooth, buttery creaminess.
Cheers!! Happy holidays!!
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