Thursday, December 20, 2012

Smuttynose Winter Ale

 Smuttynose Brewing Co.   Portsmouth, NH

Notes:
Christmas/Winter Seasonal (Belgian Dubbel)
12oz Bottle
5.83% ABV
30 IBUs


Appearance:  Pours a dark, deep mahogany…very dense…some head did form, but only a light layering remained…(4/5)

Smell:  Sweet fig, brown sugar…think more sweet brown sugar smell than normal sweet cherry rock candy…apparent alcohol heat…mild malt, caramel, yeast and cream also…overall, a nice aroma…(3.5/5)

Taste:  Fantastic taste!  Very similar to the nose, candy sweetness, dark fruit, brown sugar, sweet malts and alcohol heat…there is subtle citrus flavor…smooth, rich, dark malt base…a hint of creaminess…warming spices come late, but finish brew nicely…(4/5)

Mouthfeel:  Medium body with medium to full carbonation…really, great feel on my tongue…smooth with very little residual taste…(3.5/5)

Overall:  This is definitely one of my favorite Christmas winter warmer seasonals I’ve had to date…outstanding flavor, mixed it just right and I have to say, I like the darker malts used here…nothing is overdone and everyone seems to know their roles…the nose could awaken a bit more and if it were a little heavier, this would be an unbeatable brew…as it is, it’s highly recommended for your next Christmas party and with it’s relatively low ABV, I certainly could drink this all night and be merry (and competent)…(4/5)

Score:

(3.78/5)

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