Stoney Binks
Great Newsome Brewery

A 500ml bottle with a BB of Feb 2011, so it's a little past it's best. Picked up cheap from my favourite local beer specialist. The label describes it as a mellow amber ale. It also mentions that the name is taken from a shale bank located near the mouth of the Humber, from where stone was taken to build Hull.

Poured into a Sam Smith's pint glass. A hazy golden-amber hue with light carbonation. Residue in the bottle suggests conditioning with live yeast. Yields a small white head of foam that lasts for a minute or two. Sweet malty aroma with plenty of aromatic hops; floral, citrus and grainy notes abound.

A well-rounded malty flavour with aromatic hop bitterness. Slightly sweet, with notes of grain and citrus. The hoppy flavours are less prominent than the aroma might suggest. A dry, mildly bitter finish. Mouthfeel is smooth and faintly astringent. Aftertaste of malt and aromatic hops.

A well-crafted ale with some lovely flavours. The blend of sweet and bitter is well judged, and the aromatic hops add an extra dimension to the style. Give it a go if you encounter it.