22 ounce bottle
poured into a tulip. 8.1% ABV. Stored and served at 55F.
Appearance: Burned amber with an ever-so-slight
haze. The bottle poured with a strong
head, and as it dropped it left a lovely lacing pattern on the edges of the
glass. All that remains are lonely,
little islands of passing bubbles (4.5/5).
Aroma: Brown sugar, caramel, and raisins. A little light roast coffee. The label told me that I should smell banana
bread, and as soon as I read that I did.
Thank you, power of suggestion (4.5/5).
Taste: There is a surprising lack of sweetness. The beer is built on a foundation of malt, but
it is very well attenuated and almost dry.
The holiday spices give the perception of liquid fruitcake (without all
that weird candied fruit). I get
suggestions of nutmeg, allspice, dates, and molasses. The alcohol gives it a comforting warmth
right there at the end (4/5)
Mouthfeel: Medium body, light carbonation (4/5).
Overall: The bottle stamp has been fairly worn, but I’m
pretty sure it says to “enjoy by” June something 2014. Well, I’ve stored it properly since I
purchased it in 2013 and I’m pretty sure I haven’t done it any harm. This is a very nice beer and dangerously
drinkable. I think an Old Ale should
probably not be so thoroughly fermented, but that may be a result of the three
plus years it’s been sitting in my cellar.
I probably ought to grab a fresh bottle and compare. Also, I wish I could try it without the “holiday
spices”, but just because I’m typically not a fan of “holiday spices” in my
beer. They are not overwhelming or
detracting at all. Ultimately, a very
enjoyable edition to the Old Ale arsenal (4.25/5).
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