I just received a new shipment of Russian River Pliny the Elder. This Double IPA is named after the Roman historian and naturalist who died in 79A.D. while observing the eruption of Vesuvius. Bottled on January 5, 2009, this beer is meant to be consumed young and not aged: 8 percent ABV. Get it while you can. $4.19/500ml.

There’s a new kid in town: The Bruery, located in Orange County, California. For those of us who are adventurous, this Belgian-style triple ale is brewed with rice and Thai basil: 8.5 percent ABV. But as with the Pliny, it is not made to age. $9.49/750ml.

Don’t hesitate, my selection changes almost daily. We are not stuck in the same-old, same-old here. If you want Loser Light, shop at the big boxes; its cheaper but who knows how long it’s been sitting on the floor (unrefrigerated).

Prost!