Bull Run Bitter
Capitol City Brewing Company

 

This poured a dark clear amber with white head. It smelled malty and hoppy like a typical pale ale. It had a slight copper taste with a bit of lingering bitterness, and some malt for balance. It had a good body, not too thin, with a bit of carbonation. Overall this didn't have a very powerful flavor, but it wasn't too bad either.

Sparkling gilded copper. Skim coat of pale white bubbles that accumulate at the margins and left a handful of fine lines of delicate lace. No carbonation streams. Hop aromas of grass, bright florals, and also some EK Golding as well. The hop crispness leads the way and is nicely bright and slightly assertive. The grassy, floral, spicy flavors carry through into the finish and leave a nice lingering presence. Crisp and clean on the tongue. There is a bit of firm malt in the background, and it is barely apparent, but adds a bit of body and just a touch of toasty sweetness. Medium-light body and a moderate level of carbonation, this has the perfect mouthfeel. Highly enjoyable and drinkable, and a near perfect session beer at 4.3%. Bull Run Bitter is spot-on and well done.

Sampled at the Baltimore location.

Appearance: Very small head, no lacing. Nice honey color in the glass.

Smell: Very much in line with what I've come to expect in a bitter. Honey, light floral hops.

Taste: More bitter than I anticipated - good! I guess that's what makes it "extra special." Some caramel notes present as well.

Nothing objectionable or exceptionable about the mouthfeel. Drinkability is average-good.

A nice ESB - nothing that sets it apart from the other "nice" ESB's in its class. Sweetish malt with an appropriate amount of hops. Pleasantly fruity at the finish. A very good session ale when enjoyed on the brewery's Inner Harbor balcony overlooking the boat comings and goings.