Hermit Kingdom
Mystic Brewery

 

 

Hazy, dark gold color. Impressive four-finger head of foam that settles very slowly, leaving a bit of a mound. Thick streaks of lace on the glass throughout the tasting.

Clean, crisp pale malt smell. Similar to a macro lager but without the grainy aromas so typical. A touch of sourness.

First impression is that this is a beer that is a cross between a Saison and a lightly hopped pale ale. The finish says Saison with elements of pepper and milk. The start is a neutral pale malt base. In between, I get the sourness mentioned before and a variety of spices--nutmeg, white pepper, a touch of lemon and cardamom. The aftertaste is as complex as any beer I've ever had.

 

750ml brown bottle, purchased from brewery.

Perhaps one of the best heads I've seen in a while, chunks of lace are sticking to the glass. Clarity tis there within the golden hue. Smells of dandelion greens, taffy, cooked grain, and cherry blossoms. Impeccable crispness, so smooth and shows off some body. Clean and grainy, nutty and slightly toasty. Warming alcohol is pretty clean. Balance but bold, drinkable and complex, warming and approachable. Very different from the normal, well put together. I'd like to see more out of Mystic like this.