 jerc (3212), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Dec 16, 2005 Updated: Jul 28, 2007
July 2007. 2006 Vintage Bottle courtesy of Mabel’s parents. Black body with a foamy tan head that fades fast. Very strong aroma of smoke, like a fire pit that has held repeated fires, or the lingering camp fire aroma that clings to clothing after a weekend camping trip. Smokey flavour is far too over the top for my liking, and is paired with a surprising amount of bitterness. Light hints of chocolaty malt are desperate for more recognition but held down by the dominant boorish smoke. Average to medium palate (3+) Very much not for me. 6-7/3+/5/3/12
December 2005. Bottle, 2004 Vintage. Very dark brown, almost black body. Moderate creamy tan head. Massively smokey aroma is fairly complex compared to the simplicity of some other smoke beers. Smoke in the flavour is not necessarily intense, but is pervasive and dominant, with mildly acrid acidity underlying, and some very distant malt and chocolate making subtle overtures indicating their wish to be invited to the party. Sadly they are firmly but politely rebuffed by the smokey bouncer at the door. Palate is a touch light actually. Nice beer that is not for me. The smoke really dominates despite protests to the contrary. Thanks to Harry for crossing this long awaited brew off my list.
Gooney (39), Oregon, USA
Oct 8, 2008 22oz bottle from Joe - Pours a nice rich dark color. Hint of coffee flavor and a bit of smoke. Great balance. Great beer.
hillfiiiiire (210), Atoka, Tennessee, USA
Oct 2, 2008 2006 vintage. Pours dark color with tan head. Aroma is smokiness mixed with some nice roasted malts and a little bit of caramel. Flavor has that "eating a smoked ham" character to it, but it isn’t overbearing in any way. A little coffee, roastiness, and overall tastiness going on. Palate is pretty full-bodied with a nice balance to the carbonation. Pretty good beer.
ketchepillar (278), Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Oct 2, 2008 Aroma: The smokiness mixes very well with caramel and roasted malt. Some coffee in there too. The smokiness is balanced, not overpowering. The finish is excellent with lots of roasted malts, coffee, a some rather quenching smokiness. Good thick mouthfeel with moderate carbonation. Great balance between porter and smoked.
crowderm (181), St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
Oct 2, 2008 Drinking this one for the Biden/Palin debate. Dark brown pour, thin wispy tan head. Meaty smoked aroma. Also malt and coffee. Same notes come through in the flavor. Flavor goes from roasted malt, to smoke, to a chocolatey finish. Very tasty. Mouthfeel might be a little bit on the thin side, but is still quite nice. Tasty beer overall.
taalhiker (111), Dayton, Ohio, USA
Sep 30, 2008 From bottle. Part of April Dayton Beertasting event. Pours black with a off white head. Sweet smoke smell. Taste is filled with malt, chocolate, coffee and vanilla. Strong effort as usual.
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