Heavy Seas Smoke On the Water
I’ve had my fair share of big beers from Heavy Seas’ Mutiny Fleet series of limited releases. Most of them have been middle-of-the-road for me, but there have been a couple that have risen above the rest. And while this not-quite-a-rauchbier is better than many in the same line of beers, it also at least brings to mind visions of Beavis and Butthead rocking out to Deep Purple’s “Smoke On the Water.”
Heavy Seas’ version of Smoke On the Water is a healthy 8% ABV smoked beer that tastes more like a robust porter with a decent little char from malt roasting. It’s full on the palate and carries with it a fairly well balanced array of flavors. I just wish that there was a bit more smoke in the mix.
Appearance
The beer pours a very dark brown with a light mocha cap that fell slowly to patchy surface film.
Aroma
I love the dark coffee roast on this beer. It’s the dominant aroma, but there are hints of a subtle char and cocoa, as well as a mild, peppery hop character.
Taste
The mouthfeel on this beer is like wading through a gloomy swamp — it’s pretty damn full on the tongue. Dark chocolate and roast coffee come in first as the brew transitions through to a light smoke before fading quickly to a subtle hop bitterness in the finish. There’s a touch of malt sweetness in the mix and the fairly high alcohol content is nicely masked. The beer drinks smooth.
Overall
I enjoyed this beer. It’s fullness was spot on and the flavors were solidly balanced, making for a well rounded and smooth drinking beer. I just wish that the smoke presence within it’s murky depths was more pronounced.
Rating:3.75/5