Style: English ESB
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Stockport, England
Appearance: Clear, golden honey color. Head disappeared immediately with no lacing.
Aroma: A sweet malty smell with a spicy hop aroma.
Taste: Toffee and grainy notes with a light roasted flavor. Slightly sweet at first, then quickly revealing the hop flavors. I have to admit that straight from the refrigerator, I was a bit disappointed, but the closer it came to room temperature, the more the flavors started to shine. The English malts come through much stronger as the beer warms and the hops blend in perfect harmony; sort of like a great dual guitar solo.
OK, that was silly, . . sorry.
Palate: Carbonation is almost undetectable, yet the body seems a bit thin and astringent while cold. As the beer warmed, the slight astringency disappeared and the mouth-feel became full, silky smooth and buttery.
As with so many great beers, if you try drinking this beer super cold, you'll miss out. Not sure this beer should be classified as an ESB; its flavor profile is more like a Pale Ale. Still, it's a solid rocker and worth a try.
Read more about this beer at my England page.
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