This strong ale pours a deep rich garnet red. brilliant clarity. firm off white head that fades fairly quickly.
The aroma is warm malt and alcohol warmth. Slight candy cherry sweetness. Mild woody character. little to no hop aroma.
Flavour is sweet and malty, again some candy like cherry/brandy sweetness Little perceptible hop flavour but enough bitterness to provide some balance. Warming alcohol but not hot.
Mouthfeel is very sweet and rich, not cloying but for sure a sipper. The wood character comes through as a bracing mild astringency in the very end of the sip.
Overall a very enjoyable winter warmer to sip sitting by the fire. Pared well with homegrown green corn tamales and the second wood fire of the 'winter'