Left Hand Brewing Smoke Jumper
I like a good smoked porter, whether that be of the standard variety or one aged in rye whiskey barrels. There’s just something about he combination of a solid porter and a smokey char that really gets me excited. So, when I finally came across a bottle of Left Hand Brewing’s Smoke Jumper, an 8.8% ABV smoked Imperial Porter, it was a no-brainer to pick up a few.
It’s not often that you hear of a brewer smoking their own malts, but that’s just what Left Hand has done for this brew. What wood was used in the process, I do not know, but the smooth, smokey character of this brew tells me that the brewery has had some time to practice this craft. There’s a definite smokey char present throughout the life of the beer, but it’s not overwhelming with any sort of acrid bitterness that can come with too much smoke.
![Left Hand Brewing Smoke Jumper photo](http://www.thebarleyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/left-hand-smoke-jumper-2.jpg)
Appearance
Smoke Jumper pours a near opaque black in color with a cap of creamy, light brown foam.
Aroma
There’s a solid smokey char that dominates the aroma, but it’s not what I would call potent. There’s a smoothness to the smoke with hints of tobacco, chocolate, grain and a subtle meaty character.
Taste
There’s a meatier and smokier character to the flavor than the nose let on. It’s still not too strong and delivers with an incredible smoothness. Lingering smoke and alcohol warmth last a good long while in the drying finish. The smoke character isn’t abrasive or astringent as hints of cocoa and tobacco, as well, as a light malt sweetness persist throughout.
Overall
I really liked Smoke Jumper a ton. It packs a solid smokey character, but is just ridiculously smooth in delivering a rich, full-bodied drinking experience.
Rating: 4.25/5