Thursday, December 1, 2011

Great Divide Brewing Co.'s Hibernation English-Style Old Ale

    
     It pours a pretty clear dark amber color.  Small skimming of head which seems to be sticking around from decent carbonation.  Huge malt aroma; getting lots of sweet candy and raisin.  Very rich; strong. Very toasty. Some plum-like esters mixed in.  Hops are very earthy and clean, but they are definitely taking a backseat to the malt.  Not smelling any alcohol, which at 8.7% is rather impressive.
     First thing I notice upon tasting is a very rich, dark crystal malt.  It's like a super robust caramel with a sharp sweetness.  Noticeable esters; no one particular fruit flavor seems to stand out.  I like to refer to this as "general fruitiness".  Well-balanced bitterness mixed with some spicy hop flavor.  No alcohol evident, but definitely gives off that warming sensation.  Full body; strong carbonation.
     Perfect seasonal.  Definitely the type of ale you kick back to with a fire going.  Solid for the style and just an overall very impressive brew.

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