Scottish Ale
Emmett's Brewing Company

 

Served in an imperial pint glass at the Palatine brewpub.

Nuthin' more Scottish to pair with this than high school basketball playoffs, amiright? Anyway, this stuff pours a deep ruby-tinged black-brown topped by a finger of tan foam. The nose comprises deep molasses, mild roasted malts, and a hint of light charcoal. The taste brings in more of the same, with the roast and smoke ratcheted up a couple notches. There's also a vague sense of singed heather or some such character, something that actually brings the idea of a Scottish ale to mind (assuming you acknowledge the existence of such a style). It's hard to explain; just believe me when I say it's a touch more complex than the smell and that it's tasty. The body is a light medium, with a light moderate carbonation and a dry finish. Overall, a very nice brew, one that may not be what most people think Scottish ales are, but one that's too enjoyable to care about such arbitrary matters as adhesion to style guidelines.