Winter Heaven
Two Roads Brewing Company

Very nice pours entirely emptied two twelve ounce cans into a clear glass liter mug. A proper off-white head was formed, resting above a lightly copper-amber liquid that's bright and relatively translucent. Its aroma isn't poignant, but both sharp hops and malt can be detected. The taste is good, bolder than expected. The sharply piney hops supercede the malts, especially during the finish which transitions significantly bitter, clean and dry. The malt does its part, too. There is a subdued grainy layer to the taste and the body is pleasant for the style and hop bite this brings. Likely because of the bitterness, the ABV is noticed a bit more than its level would suggest, a minor complaint, especially if a sharp hop bite is wanted. The glass lacing was spotty, but that's another minor complaint about a brew that should make those that appreciate a brew with a significant bite.

 

A: crystal clear; copper colored; a 1 finger finely pored off white head that receded to a wispy cap with a moderate tight collar; OK lacing;

S: pineapple with orange in the background;

T: follows the nose through the middle; balanced between pineapple and orange at the end; mild bitterness on the finish the increases to medium in the aftertaste;

M: medium bodied; moderate carbonation; moderately dry finish;

O: nicely done;