Traquair 2000
Traquair House Brewery

 

Almost mlind-tasted in that right now I only know the name and ABV% of the new beer.
L- Pours 'quite splashy' suggesting not a carb-bomb. Ie compare vs say some Milk Stouts which often pour almost silent due to carb content = viscosity. Lovely deep chestnut red, clear, with a 2cm dense fine-bubble pale tan head - holding v well, two thumbs up
S- Winter congestion means Smell is harder for me presently. What I do get is a hint of barrel, maybe liquor barrel?
T- That's better! I wonder if this is brandy-barrel aged... I don't think it's whisky, we'll see! Into bright brandy-like aspect, that is punchy and lingers on and on.... There is a brighter note too, liquor, or use of a bright hop? Hmmm. Don't overchill this, I'm sure it'll open up as the friedge-cold edge comes off it somewhat. I deal winter beer a slow-sipper to relish slowly.
F- It's clearly big at 9% but it's not thumping that on my palate, which is good brewing. It's big, has good richness but that is measured and not wearying. It's likely an occasional style for the majority to enjoy, the very opposite of a sessionable brew : )
O- Fascinating to try, well brewed and balanced with 'zero obvious flaws' distracting my enjoyment. I'm once again surprised to try beer this niche and good from a UK brewery I hadn't even heard of until last week.
330ml bottle bought from The Real Ale Store.
Rated/reviewed^ I'll now read the lable for any clues there: 'Judge Nought' on the neck lable, lol well that teaches me eh! Fermented in oak tuns, no liquor!, a suggested shelf life of 10 years, BBE at neck Oct-33. No sediment at bottle bottom = filtered. That's it!