Start 14-Day Trial Subscription

*No credit card required

James Link's picture

Southern Tier Porter

November, 2015
Judges Rating: 
86
Aroma: 
20 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
35 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
8 / 10
Overall Impression: 
17 / 20

This American Porter produced a clean chocolate malt aroma that was somewhat subdued. Coffee notes were accompanied by hints of vanilla and only a faint wisp of hops, which were more earthy than floral. This beer was a deep mahogany in color, was very clear with a medium tan head.

As was evident in the aroma profile, roasted grain flavor was toned down (although the balance leaned in that direction) with very little malt sweetness apparent. Hops contributed mostly to bitterness and very little to flavor. Since the balance of an American Porter is more roast to malt (rather than hops to malt as with many other styles), this example left both a bit understated. This beer's body was medium to thin with conditioning and alcohol level appropriate for the style.

Cleanly brewed and very drinkable, this American Porter was on the lighter end of the spectrum.