Had a Summer '08 YuleSmith I got in a trade. The nose was phenomenal, but it was a bit on the hot side and not as balanced as I would have liked. In retrospect I wish I had let it sit awhile longer. I was going for the whole "Christmas in July" thing, though.
Any suggestions for next friday?
LOCAL, it looks like you're in my neck of the woods. The Philly/Eastern PA/NJ area is blessed with some great breweries. Some good local choices that hit the spot this time of year are:
Victory Prima Pils (a true Czech Pilsner...nice, crisp and hoppy)
Troegs Sunshine Pils (similar, yet different)
Philadelphia Brewing Co. Rowhouse Red (a summer saison brewed with Rye)
Flying Fish Farmhouse Summer Ale (brewed right in your backyard...Cherry Hill!)
River Horse Hop Hazard Pale Ale (brewed up in Lambertville, NJ)
Stoudt's Gold (great for those that may be "squeamish" about craft beer)
These are just a few suggestions. I second Justin's call of finding someone knowledgeable in your area and getting suggestions. If you're ever in the DelCo area, let me know and I'll take you to some of our better distributors.