And actually the growler is more like 5 beers so 18 > 4. I can't say that I've had all those beers, but I do like variety and am not a huge fan of the "bourbon" flavored beers. Now adding scotch to the equation is whole different discussion. I think I'd take the bird in hand vs. future trade of scotch - it's funny how even friends tend to forget things after the bargain is struck.
$60 for a four pack of (2) 07's and (2) 08's on ebay.
the stuff is so strong that it's best to split a bottle two or three ways.
In fact, if I were you, I'd probably throw in a little something extra, maybe a bomber or two of a beer or style you know he likes.
I am generally a big fan of Surly. Furious is its flagship IPA. It is pretty hoppy. Abrasive is a smaller batch offering at twice the price; Abrasive seems to attempt to set a record for hoppiest beer.
If I recall correctly, Odell Mercenary is in the same vein as Abrasive.
I like IPA alot, and like hoppiness. But for me, Furious, Mercenary and Abrasive exceed my personal happy hoppy meter. I'll pay less and prefer Odell St. Lupulin or its regular IPA. (I'm a really big fan of Surly Bender and Cynic-Ale - but those aren't IPAs).
But if it's a trade for something you don't like - then I'd say go for it. Odell and Surly are very high quality.
Question, is it really good to keep 2007 beer? I didn't think beer aged well.
Oxygen and light are what will skunk a beer. Most bottle caps will slowly allow in air over time. Growlers in particular aren't particularly air tight, especially after first opening.
For all it's Hamm's association, beer cans offer longest shelf-life.
Generally it's those with higher alcohol contents. I doubt anyone would want to drink a Bud Light from 2007 ;)The only one's I've aged usually have a 5 year window. I just saw someone recently mention they were doing a tasting of 20 straight years of someone's seasonal, would have made for a fun night.
By BA ratings those are all really good beers. I've only had the Zombie Dust personally.
Btw, the Zombie Dust is the #12 beer in the world according to BA - link may require a free account.
I'd do the trade personally since he's offering a variety of good beer and you said you didn't particularly like them in the first place. Plus you'll still have 2 left.
The label on the Bourbon County Stout says that the flavors should keep developing for 5 years. I've kept it in a cool dark corner of my basement so it should be fine. However, I think now is the time to drink it because it will probably fade over the next year or two.