Cricket Hill Colonel Blides Cask Ale
The whole “Cask Ale” emblazoned across the label artwork on this beer had me a bit confused initially. Obviously, it’s not in a cask, nor has the beer been treated to any sort of barreling. I suppose it’s just another way of referring to the style since they are typically served from a cask. At any rate, on to the review.
I’ve only had one other product from New Jersey’s Cricket Hill and that was their pretty tasty Cricket’s Nocturne. Colonel Blides is also a tasty little brew. It’s an English style bitter that weighs in at an easy drinking 5.5% ABV. I found the beer well balanced with earthy character that I enjoyed a good deal.
Appearance
Colonel Blides pours a clear copper in color with a sizable, light tan head that fell to impressive lacing.
Aroma
Earthy hops, hints of citrus fruits and a light caramel malt backbone make for a rather mild, but well balanced nose.
Taste
A more pronounced hop character greets the tongue along with grainy malt, cereal and a touch of caramel. The hop profile isn’t aggressive by any means. It’s fairly earthy and has just the right amount of bitterness for the style, leaving a lingering tingle in the dry finish. The medium bodied brew has a moderate amount of crispness that makes for an easy drinking and refreshing brew.
Overall
Again, Cricket Hill surprise with another tasty little brew. Colonel Blides is a smooth drinking and balanced brew that has just the right amount of earthy hops and bready malt for a well rounded flavor. It’s a beer I could see myself grabbing again if I were in the mood for a bitter.
Rating: 3.5/5
