I picked this one up on a recent trip to the store. It was a new product that they hadn’t carried before and there was only one bottle left. Having known nothing about the beer, I assumed that it’s limited quantity was due to it being a popular item. So I greedily picked the last bottle from the shelf (on a side note, the shop has since been carrying this porter in larger quantities since my initial purchase).
Some quick research on the product that evening revealed it to be made by the same folks that make Carlsberg beer — on of my fathers favorite brews. I read up on a few other reviews and it seems a good number of folks really like this beer. Excited, I opened it up and poured.
Appearance
The porter pours nearly black with a decent rich, tan head that was sticky and long lasting.
Aroma
This one has a very pleasing aroma. Earthy and peaty notes rise off the top of the glass as an unsweetened chocolate presence sat in the background. Being a cigar fan, it reminded me of a nice, rich maduro.
Taste
This beer had me at the first sip. It’s a smooth, chewy porter with a very rich flavor. There’s an earthy malt presence in the forefront with elements of espresso and chocolate in the background. The beer finishes a little bitter, yet smoothly.
Overall
Ever since this first tasting a few days ago, I will definitely be picking up more of this one. It’s got such a rich body and complex taste, yet it’s easily drinkable and smooth. Coming in at 7.2% ABV, it’s a little higher than most porters, but nothing that should raise any alarms as a nice late evening warmer.
Rating: 4.5/5
