E.S.B. (Extra Special Bitter)
Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant

ESB poured from a 2 liter growler. An aggressive pour was required to get any sort of head, and the retention was unimpressive.

More importantly though, this is a great beer. The aroma is very nice and is strong with caramel (or burnt sugar more precisely I think) and malt. The taste is hoppy up front and finishes with a clean, strong malt flavor.

The moderate ABV will make this a great session beer. I don't think I'll have any problem finishing the growler while it's still fresh.

Appearance-dark red copper color with a huge two fingers of head, the head cascades about and then finally dissapearing, rings of lace are about. Exceptional clarity on the color, great looking beer.

Smell-caramel malts come through, hop nuances are there but overshadowed by the malt, some alcohol, malt dominates everything though.

Taste-bitter (go figure) caramel rushes the toungue followed by a quick hop florish (they stated they use German Magnum on the website) goes down very smoothly with a flourish of caramel and light bitterness, easy drinking.

Mouthfeel-effortlessly smooth with a light but flavorful body, leaves a wonderful aftertaste of caramel, leaves you wanting more, simply great.

Drinkability-a mild ale easily quaffed again and again, I had many pints, just a great bitter.

Overall-by far the best beer Gaslight produces, more robust, complex, and flavorful than a normal or mild bitter, yet still light enough to maintain a smooth bitter profile, an absolute must try.