Lovely, if slightly thin, scottish ale. Subtle estery dark fruit, extremely malty body and lasting finish. Head diminished quickly. I wanted and expected more spice and a fuller taste from the holiday ale. Very drinkable, I believe crack was used as an adjunct to create longing as part of the palate.

Sweetly malty aroma, dark, vinous and fruity, with some brown sugar and toffee, light banana esters, slight roastiness and chocolate. Deep, dark red color, clear, with a slight but creamy head and sparse lacing. Flavor profile is almost entirely malty, sweet and dark, with notes of raisin, banana, cinnamon apple, toffee, licorice and vanilla. Very lightly spicy and somewhat syrupy finish, overall bitterness is negligible. Silky smooth mouthfeel, low effervescence, gently warming and medium-full body. Drinkable. Reminiscent of elements found in other beers such as McEwan's Scotch Ale and Old Peculier.