Saint Arnold Cask Honey Orange Christmas Ale

Formerly brewed at Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Style: English Strong Ale
Houston, Texas USA

Tap at The Orange Show, 10/24/09.
After busting the hell outta my ankle getting to the tap (A staircase led people down to what appeared to be a stage area, except that in front of the stage area was a 1 foot drop-off that was not all that visible due to poor lighting. Friggin’ hippie playground!) Anyway, I was very much looking forward to trying this beer; otherwise, why would I plunk down $22.50 to attend this thing? ’Cause I give a crap about The Orange Show building? Heck no. The building itself, while kinda cool, looks like a reject prop from Munchkin Land. Oh well. The beer pours a deep amber with a thick, creamy white head. An aroma of honey, orange peel bits, and a slight watermelon/pumpkin essence round out the nose. Flavor is a noticeable drop-off in quality. A soapy, bitter malt with buttery spice and rubbery honey invades the tongue and doesn’t let go. Nice mouthfeel, but the anitseptic-like quality of the flavor negates any pleasant feelings. A very disappointing beer; very chemical and choppy with a weird balance of flavors that leave the beer tasting both medicinal and old.