Honey Habanero
Frank Brewing Co.

Appearance: The nice gold body which has slight traces of cloudy particulate showcases ample carbonation that fuels the excellent retention that a finger and a half of head brings to the table. Sadly it does not lace at all.

Smell: This beer really needs warming to come out, but when it does slightly toasted bread malt hidden behind mild oranges and maybe a hint of a dry chili note is present.

Taste: Starts with a mild orange taste backed by a light toasty bread malt, as the orange then builds as suddenly the perfect volume of strong hot pepper spice comes forward which is really the core element that this beer brings as it lasts even past the light earth hop not finishes things off. Biggest complaint though, it's not very sweet at all. Where is the honey?

Mouthfeel: The carbonation is exceptionally well done, as it brings out the start and seems to knowingly dial back as the spicier note takes over and stops it from becoming too aggressive. The transitioning could use work, as that spice really does build up pretty quick. The aftertaste is dominated by the Haberno pepper (and I'm not sure how it could not) with maybe the barest hint of orange zest.

Drinkability: Light bodied and settles down very well, which I think is crucial for a beer with a high spicy pepper note. Easy drinking...it's got Habenro in the name, so of course it's not a guzzler but it's pretty clear that isn't the intention. It's a firey brew that is certainly fun to have, although I'm still upset that it's not sweet at all.

Final Thoughts: For a beer that lays claim to honey and marmalade, the distinct lack of sweetness is a disappointment. However, the bees on fire on the label and clear branding as a spicy ale make up for that fact. I think I may be a bit biased here because I don't get to have spicy chile beer very often, but they nailed the spice note as it is potent but never to the point where it is a smack in the face. Maybe that lost sweetness I can't pick it up is what is reigning this one in. Regardless, I wish I had picked up another can when I went to watch the Bulldogs play the Spitfires. Great stuff.