Charlie's Golden Strong Ale
Copper Kettle Brewing Company

 

Consistently delicious. The iteration aged in Laws whiskey barrels was actually significantly worse than the regular version.

 

 

 

 

 

I haven't had anything from Copper Kettle before and wanted to like something from them (because in all honesty their labels are awesome), and picked this up for about $7 today from World Market. I think most bombers are are a ripoff but for $7 I figured I'd check it out.

Pretty disappointing.

Nose was lacking, not really telling me anything about the beer. Flavor was barnyard, leather, lemon; dry and somewhat watery. For something at 8%, I'd at least expect to be getting a little blasted by booze, but it's pretty empty of anything distinguishing.

I thought it was a pretty average "attempt" at a Belgian Golden Strong, and they need to up their game. I wouldn't get this one again.

 

 

 

 

 

 

a very well made beer, rather true to belgian tradition, but its just not different or intriguing enough to get much excitement out of me. i have really dug these copper kettle beers, but this one is just like something like a duvel, and i am not sure i prefer this over that. in fact, i know i don't, the yeast isn't as robust, mature, or classic. i like its summer applicability though, the beer is very very light in color, almost crystal clear, and while it boasts all the aromas and flavors of a belgian made tripel, it is far lighter in looks, body, and most importantly for summer, residual sugar. like a cleaner take on the style, almost too clean, almost filtered looking and feeling, but there is some lingering yeast on the swallow which beefs it up just enough. the 8% abv is also really appropriate. its enough to fit the style spectrum, but not enough to make me canned after a bomber, which i always appreciate. really clean finish on it too, the absence of much sugar makes this far more drinkable. it opens up a fair bit in the yeast department with a little temperature. overall a very tasty beer that should be a real crowd pleaser, it just isn't distinct enough to be memorable for me, but i can't reasonably ask that from every bottle of beer i open, so well done copper kettle.

Amber color with an inviting foam in the wide Orval chalice. Plenty of tingle on the tongue. Full of aromatics with a fruity, flowery nose. Very clean and fresh in the mouth.

A medium weight brew. Reminiscent of champagne, with the bubbles and the winey notes. The aromas become more delirious as it warms up a little. Malty and a little tangy, but soft edges and a touch of sweetness. The yeasty flavors are just strong enough with a bitter note at the finish. I think this would compare favorably with Duvel, for instance, in a blink tasting.

A very pleasant brew that is restrained in every way, yet full of flavor. From the 22 oz bottle purchased At Grapevine Liquors on south Monaco. They did a great job on their labels.