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Incidentals: Shipped from Cali (thanks, k3n!). Bottle foamed over when opened. Seems to not take to agitation very well.

Appearance: Slightly above-average. Nice and dark, with a very frothy, thick head. The head is dissolving quickly, but at the junction of the beer it appears to be more robust. Beer appears to be filtered.

Smell: Hints of clove.

Taste: More strong flavor than is typical in a red ale, but it's justified. Very enjoyable flavor and aftertaste, which makes me want to have another sip. This 12 oz will not last long.

Mouthfeel: Leaves a nice bitterness on the tongue afterwards, good feel.

Drinkability: Not a beer to have many of in one sitting, but goes well with the holidays and soft jazz. It doesn't shout "Giftmas", but it definitely fits in with a night of jingle bells and crisp air.

Food accompaniment: Chestnuts. Preferably roasted over an open fire.

Served In: Pint Glass

Review from 10/04/06

Bought the last three bottles of this fine ale that were on closeout at Dennis Brothers. Poured from bomber into pint glass.

A - Dark garnet body with a slight haze to it. Thick, one finger head consists of tight, tiny bubbles.

S - Spicy hops, Centennial hops, sweet roasted malts, with a touch of spruce. Warm and inviting.

T - Starts out with the warm roasted malts, then works into the spicy hops and then the slightly fruity, citrus hops.

M - Medium to full bodied, very thick for a amber. Tiny bubbles tickle your tongue.

D - Nice hopped up amber here. Hops might be a little subdued as this is a bottle from last years batch.

Served In: Pint Glass