This thread brings back the most pleasant of memories. My very first "real" or "craft" beer was a Grant's Scottish Ale sometime back in the early 80's. My grandfather was Scottish and I play pipes, and I sat down in a restaurant once to find a tent card urging me to try Grant's Scottish. Thinking it was Scottish, I ordered a pint.
I had never had anything like it. It was the first time I had tasted a real malt flavor, and the main taste I remember was that of caramel. I didn't know at the time that it was quite out of character for a Scottish ale, but it was also liberally laced with Cascade hops. Ignorance is bliss, and I loved it. It was my "gateway" beer, and although the quality could be uneven, I sought it out regularly, reveling in the times I'd happen into a bar with a fresh, well handled keg. It also opened my mind to trying other beers, and I soon learned what a huge, wonderful world was out there. You can't imagine my surprise when I learned it was actually made in Yakima, on the dry side of Washington where I had grown up.
Part of my glee in getting back into home brewing is the hope that I can recreate the taste of Grant's Scottish. Or maybe I should say recreating the taste I think I remember. No matter, the fun is in the journey.