First sip is not the kick in the teeth I feared. Instead, it's a sweet and complex beer that has strong flavors mixed with the subtleties that really seem like they support the impressive dark and sweet malt with their grainy, earthy depth. I wouldn't have expected a beer like this to be good for sipping, but I could likely sip it all night long. But, I am an Irishman, and that is not my way. Time to swig.
Tip-in is raisins and prunes. The tickle of carbonation is a rare treat - perfect. It doesn't burn harshly, and the beer isn't flat. instead, the carbonation compliments the dark of the beer with a lightness of spirit. The middle is a retard of sensation. It's not watery. Instead, it becomes a bit of a beer equivalent of just a big slab of meat. The malt is thick and flavorful without overwhelming anything. Instead, it enjoys just being a beer. As the finish arrives, the earth and twigs stick out and fill the mouth with the sweet malt diving deep and growing strong.
Bottom Line: Sublime and delightful. It surpasses its sibling.
5.0/5