This is a crisp, clean example of an aged ale. The first impression is a malt-forward aroma, with elements of bread crust, nutty grain, dark chocolate, and light toastiness. A hint of caramel or toffee adds complexity and fruity esters are subdued, indicating a clean fermentation. Hops make a... Read More
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Pete Garofalo
Beer Judge
A Grand Master IV beer judge, Pete has been appreciating good beers since the days when locating a tavern with two “alternative” taps was a major find. He has been a homebrewer since 1991 and an active member of the Beer Judge Certification Program since 1994. He formerly served on the BJCP Board of Directors as the Northeast/International representative and remains active as a judge.
My reviews
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
34 / 40
Mouthfeel:
6 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
36 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
The aroma of intense chocolate suggests a hot fudge sundae or a pan of freshly baked brownies. A malty edge provides an overall candylike impression. Some aspects of dried fruit are also present: raisin, fig, and cherry. The flavor is also rich in chocolate character, along with suggestions of... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
35 / 40
Mouthfeel:
7 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20
This hoppy interpretation of a Saison starts off with a yeasty, bread-like aroma that gradually melds with a honey sweetness. Perfumy hops mingle with some peppery phenols and hints of lemon zest, resulting in a very appealing bouquet. The flavor is somewhat of a surprise, with an intense... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
7 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20
Resinous, piney hop aromas are fresh and appealing, fading as caramel malt emerges. Fruity esters add an accent of strawberries and citrus fruit: tangerine and mandarin orange. A more restrained bready, grainy malt character is secondary. The initial flavor is quite caramelly sweet, with hints... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
A surprising whiff of coffee, dark chocolate and toasted malt is initially apparent. Hops are secondary with an earthy, herbal edge that is restrained. Spicy graininess adds a layer of depth to the considerably deep, rich malt character. The malty theme continues into the initial flavor, with... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20
Pungent, resinous hops greet the nose with traces of pine amidst the leafy, vinous essence. A low malt presence helps to support the pear and berry esters. Flavor follows suit, starting with a piquant hop character that is impressively fresh and appealing. Cherry and berry esters spring from the... Read More