Euro 2012: Semifinal Previews

I have watched a bunch of this Euro 2012 tournament.  I was in Brazil for the beginning of it, watching with my brother in law and the other soccer-crazed fans. Predictably, it is only the blue chip countries left in the tournament.  I watched the England v Italy quarterfinal match Sunday, which was quite uneventful, with Italy controlling possession but failing to convert any goals. A 2-0 result was equally likely as the 0-0 result with Italy winning in PKs.  England's woeful control of the ball, and few scoring opportunities, in spite of an average Italian backfield are definitely not re-assuring for supporters of the Red and White. 

Looking forward to the Semi-finals, we have two similar matchups.  The heavily favored Spanish and German teams go up against the Cristiano Ronaldo's (Portugal) and Italy, respectively.

Spain's dominant side, led by their flashy offensive scorers, are the favorite to win the tournament, but Germany's methodical wins in the early rounds may signify that they have a chance.  I like both favorites to go through to the final, but the are certainly not locks.  Spain has a better chance of getting an unlucky exit from a red hot Ronaldo, as Germany's offense has looked unstoppable and the feeble defense and inconsistent offense of the the Azzuri are unlikely to cause them much trouble. 

Recent Beers

 

Port Brewing: High Tide "Fresh Hop" IPA - This beer is extremely hoppy, even though it was brewed early October.  It's been over a month, but the fresh hops are still extremely noticeable.  The color is quite light and hazy, with an aggressive head.  First whiff of the beer is pure piney hops.  The beer is bitter, as it is an IPA and the alcohol is noticeable although it is only 6.5% ABV.  A delicious beer for sure.

 

Sixpoint: Diesel -  This is a seasonal offering from Brooklyn based Sixpoint.  It comes in 16oz bomber 4 packs, and I paid $8.99.  Although they consider this beer a stout it is 62 IBU's and uses fresh hops.   This beer is nearly a Black IPA it is so hoppy, but there is a solid stout backbone to it as well.  The beer looks great, extremely dark with a foamy head.  The smell is roasted coffee and piney hops.  Very drinkable.

 

Trader Joes: 2011 Vintage Ale - This delicious Belgian Strong Dark Ale is brewed for Trader Joe's by Unibroue in Quebec, Canada, the famous makers of Belgian style ales.  This corked and caged 750ml bottle is a bargain at $4.99 while supplies last at TJ's locations.  Although the beer clocks in at 9% ABV it is approachable.  The beer is very dark and has lots of spices and dark fruits like other BSDAs.  Not the most amazing or complex beer, but a bargain at this price point.

  

Harpoon: Munich Type Dark - An excellent Munich Dunkel Lager from local brewer Harpoon.  This came in the Winter mixed 12 pack and was my favorite beer.  Don't have tasting notes, but I enjoyed it!