Catcher In The Rye
The North Brewery

From a crowler that was filled 10 days ago. Let warm up to 50F.

Opaque dark mahogany brown , with a little light leaking through at the edges. One finger of medium tan head, that persists 2-3 minutes , leaving a thin ring .

Smell is chocolate cake batter, a little decayed wood, wet earth, and vanilla. Occasional, very brief hints of alcohol

Taste is chocolate liqueur , but less sweet, slight sour tang as with rye bread crust, and a slight spiciness. I don't taste the vanilla distinctly until right at swallow. Other than that, it does seem to be present, but more as a modifier of the chocolate notes ,smoothing it , and making it less bitter. Slight bitterness , showing up about half-way through, and lingering a little past finish.

Feel is smooth, oily, leaving the tongue slightly coated, with a little very, very fine carbonation tingle coming in late. I wish it had just a little more carbonation, but that's a minor point. It's fine as-is . No noticeable alcohol heat. After about 12 oz, I am starting to feel my ears warm a bit. :)

Overall, quite enjoyable. Wish it had more carbonation, but how this is, seems to be the standard for this brewery, so I just have to adjust , when drinking their beer. Np. ;) I love rye beers , so chose this one. The rye spiciness isn't as prominent as it often is with rye IPAs, but it, & the sour tang, are noticeable enough to appreciate. Very much recommend giving this a try, if you have the chance.