Stronghart - McMullen & Sons, Ltd.

Zimbo

United Kingdom (Scotland)

2.9/5  rDev -11.3%
look: 4 | smell: 2 | taste: 3 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 3

I always smell the beer in the bottle before I pour to get a first impression and this one had one of the 'stealthiest noses' I can remember, or more likely, forget.

Forms an easy half inch magnolia head and pours a pleasant deep reddish brown with many sparkling orange highlights. Very light carbonation. Flavour is more than just a bit restrained with some blunt bitterand borderline metallic notes with a quick cut off the end. Alcohol is very well hidden and body supports it without too many worries and just enough burr..

Not bad but I really can't see how the label can describe this as a 'Liquid Christmas pudding'. Not unless they're comparing it to the one from Aldi.

Serving type: bottle

10-13-2011 08:31:18 | More by Zimbo

jazzyjeff13

United Kingdom (England)

3.63/5  rDev +11%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 3.5 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 3.5

A 500ml bottle with a BB of Aug 2013. The front label features a large stag emblem that gives it a Christmas-like feel. Previously chosen by CAMRA as their 'Best Festive Ale'.

Poured into a Sam Smith's pint glass. A deep ruby hue with low carbonation. Produces a thick head of creamy off-white foam that lasts for several minutes before subsiding. Rich, fruity aroma of sweet roasted malt with notes of dried fruit, brown sugar, molasses and marzipan. Possesses a vinous quality - the label description of 'liquid Christmas pudding' isn't too far off. Also a fair whiff of booze in the background.

Tastes of sweet, fruity malt with a mild bitter finish. Notes of roasted grain, dried fruit, peel, brown sugar, molasses, stewed hops and subtle spice. Considerable alcoholic 'heat' upon swallowing, and a faint hint of buttery diacetyl. Mouthfeel is smooth and tingly, leaving the palate dry. Fruity malt aftertaste.

Pretty good - a complex flavour with lots going on. Smells better than it tastes - the astringent alcohol note is too prominant on the palate. Might improve if it was aged for a while. A decent strong ale; would make a nice digestif. Give it a whirl.

Serving type: bottle

09-20-2011 23:49:41 | More by jazzyjeff13