Festivalnoye
Durdin (Len)

Durdin's contribution to Moscow's ever growing Oktoberfest tradition. Served up only during the Fest in either a globular 1/2 liter glass mug or ceramic liter mugs. Comes out cloudy copper-tinted gold under a two finger white head with a good bit of body and excellent retention. The lacing, however, is very disappointing - essentially non-existent. The nose is also very, very mild, with just a hint of fresh bread. The mouth is light and reasonably prickly. The taste starts out a bit thin, almost watery, with some grain peeking through, followed by a bit of fruity sweetness in the middle, chased in turn by a decent hoppy bite. The finish is slightly dry, with espresso notes gnawing at the back of the throat. Globetrotterette declared it "too bitter," and the hops did become more pronounced as it warmed. I'd probably prefer a more assertive malt body, but by no means does this brew qualify as truly bitter. Nice effort.