This beer’s a true gem: It pours dark brown with ruby-red highlights, excellent clarity, and a rocky, off-white crown. Complex but ultimately sweet, the aroma is a wonderful blend of caramel and brown sugar accented by a mild dark fruit note evocative of raisins or plums. The flavor begins with heavy-handed caramelized sugar, then moves into slightly toasted grains and some minor chocolate notes. Hops are minimal in both flavor and bitterness, lending just enough bite to cut the sweetness and make the beer more approachable. This is a full-bodied brew, but not heavy on the palate or cloyingly sweet. The alcohol is elevated but smooth, and the beer finishes clean and dry for the style.
