Trouble Winter Ale
Town Hall Brewery

Deep violet color, smallish head. Aroma is subtle, but still some spiciness. I was told it was like a barleywine, which sold me, but I'm not getting the distinctive aroma I associate with the style. Some fruits, bright ones, cherries, etc. The fruitiness remains on the palate. Malt is high, hops a bit low. That's the difference, I now realize. My favorite barleywines always have a pronounced hop profile, and I'm thrown off by any that are less hoppy. Very tasty, very pleasurable this, very happy. I'm getting the feeling of a lambic here, with the touch of sourness required, although a little syrupy, a little buttery, even. Very merry, as in Christmas, very jubilant, as in New Year. Who needs champagne?