Start 14-Day Trial Subscription

*No credit card required

Sal Mortillaro II's picture

Jack The Sipper

July, 2016
Judges Rating: 
91
Aroma: 
22 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
37 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
8 / 10
Overall Impression: 
18 / 20

This ESB pours a deep amber color with hazy clarity and a sustained, off-white, meringue-like head. Rich notes of bready malt with light toast and light caramel intertwine with a slight nutty base note of malt. English-style fruity esters interplay with a low, but present, earthy note from the hops as well as a very light cinnamon-like spiciness. Moderately intense malt flavor of toasty and nutty notes and treacle pudding lightly overshadows the moderate earthy and spicy hop notes present. The fruity esters help play up the perceived sweetness in this beer though the bitterness lingers after the swallow. The flavor of the beer is consistent from the sip through to the aftertaste. This is a very drinkable beer that appears to be relatively low in alcohol. A medium-light body and ample carbonation for the style lends a creamy note that enhances the treacle pudding (bready caramel) flavor. An exceptional example of the style, which appears to lean on the sweeter end. This would pair well with grilled meats where the sweetness of the malt would help mellow the char.