Sledgehammer
Outer Banks Brewing Station

Appearance: Arrives at the bar with a dark copper color and a small head that leaves some lacing

Smell: Some fruit in the aroma

Taste: Starts out with a combination of both caramel and fruit; after the swallow, there is a good deal of bitterness that kicks in along with a coconut sweetness at the very end, that is long-lasting

Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied and slightly syrupy (although a touch thin for the style) with modest carbonation and much warmth in the finish

Drinkability: Flavorful and well-balanced; a darn good example of the style

The beer arrived on the table ruby amber brown with a hazy quality and an off-white and frothy head which fell slowly to lace the glass.

The aroma was strong fresh hop cone aroma (Amarillo according to the description). Following the hops came the malt impression which was caramel coupled with dark fruits and a bit of light spice.

The flavor was malty and hoppy followed with a strong caramel and candy flavor. Those malt and hop flavors were accented with a slight Belgian yeast spice. The beer was fruity with dark fruits of raisins and prunes being present. The hop flavors were resinous and piney with a definite alcohol presence.

The finish was dry with lasting malt impression long and pleasantly into the aftertaste. The body was full, but not quite chewy. The beer was served just a bit too cold.

Served in a 9 ounce brandy sniffer for $4. The description said the beer was made using a Belgian yeast.