5th Ocean Grand Ale
Moskovskaya Pivovarennaya Kompaniya

 

 

Must say that I was greatly impressed by the looks of this bottle - reminds me of a Russian Champagne. Well designed, a bit retro-esque and very Russian.
The beer itself pours into a pint glass with an enourmous head (4+ fingers, slightly off white) which seems to stay forever, leaving huge amounts of lacing behind. Golden amber colored ale, looks quite similar to London Pride but with even more "pride," much more golden shine.
Tastes very English ale-like, very well done with just enough amount of (close to) natural carbonation. Leaves a slightly boozy aftertaste but I prefer it that way. After having backed most of the 750 ml down, the yeast starts to feel somewhat annoying but still much better than any other European counterpart.
Altogether it is very pleasant to drink and gives an instant warmth, the kind that you get from winter ales. Could be from the 6.2%? Still it feels a bit different from your typical English ale, no mistake it is Russian. Can imagine it being served in Moscow on a red velvet carpet. This is what a Grand Ale should be, and the grand bottle is just the right amount to have at once.

 

 

Clear dark amber color with off-white head. Aroma has some alcohol and bready/crackery malt with some spicy grains. Taste starts sweet with some spicy grains and alcohol, harsh earthy bitterness on the finish. Light body, medium carbonation. Overall it's a quite boring and mediocre beer.