Heck Hound
Long Live Beerworks

 

 

 

 

Poured fresh from howler into 12oz glass.

Appears a slightly opaque orangish amber. Half finger head settles to thin film with ring around edges. Sticky lacing.

Malt-forward nose of brown bread, slight smokiness that opens up and becomes more prominent with warming. Has a slight hint of blue cheese aroma (I know this sounds weird, but it is a distinct smell that I don't know how else to describe) which works really well with the smokiness. Intriguing. Hops not that noticeable, which is fine for the style IMO.

Taste starts with a hint of bitterness and slowly transitions to sweet maltiness. The malt is apparent but gradual and not overpowering at all. Smokiness is not as apparent in taste, but it is there. Just a bit nuttier (think harvest/marzen-like malts) than I would prefer for what is billed as a "smoky red ale".

The mouthfeel is excellent with a stout-like silkiness and chewiness. The carbonation is there, but it is not at all prickly. While it feels heavy on the palate, this beer is still quite drinkable. Medium body.

Tried before with a tasting and came back again for a fill. Unique aroma, wonderful mouthfeel, good taste. So far this is my favorite from Long Live. I'd be interested to try this with a bit more bittering hops, or maybe spices. Still, totally holds its own. Highly recommend.

8oz +/- sample at the brewery 2/27/16. Very impressed with the smoke on this beer, typically brewers are heavy handed. However in this case it really is a creamy ale with just a bit of smoke. Shade is a little light for a red ale but the malts are there.

Bought a growler at the brewery, drank it at home in a pint glass. Refreshing and smooth, some citrus note. Not overwhelmingly hoppy or smoky. Good balance, good body, good carbonation. A winner.

32oz. howler filled on 1/30/2016 and served in a shaker pint. Pours a dull burnt orange hue with a tight, quarter inch, creamy, off-white head that exhibits excellent retention. Clarity is on the murky side. Nose expresses light smoked malt notes and a hint of cherry. Taste consistent with nose - nice delicate smokey notes; not overly meaty. Cherry character adds a nice dimension and smokey quality lightly lingers between quaffs. Mouthfeel is light-medium in body (but closer to light) with a mild, even carbonation and a trace of acidity that only really reveals itself after the first glass. Overall, I would classify this as a smoked beer as opposed to an "Irish Red' as stated under the style. A nice, easy-drinking smoked beer and a good introduction to the style. Nice job!