California Common
Carlyle Brewing Co.

Appearance: Pours with a thick, creamy head. Color is a mix between ruby red accents and some light brown. Light random lacing left behind at each level. Light active carbonation.

Smell: Buttery, doughy yeast aromas really dominate right off the bat. Amber malt and some light hop tones add some extra levels of complexity. A nutty, grainy backbone rounds out the aroma.

Taste: Creamy buttery yeast notes wash over the palate. Amber malt and a medium dark, slightly dry fruit body pops up after the front. Easy, well rounded grains bring this brew full circle and linger on the palate with continuing semi sweet cream tones.

Mouthfeel: Good combination of sweet and then lingering dryness. Carbonation is low but suits this brew well.

Overall: More of a slow sipper then a crushable lager due to dark, more complex aspects. Drank better closer to room temperature. Really enjoyed all the offerings I've had from Carlyle lately, maybe doing away with their pizza to focus on their beer was the correct decision!

Draught @ Brewpub: This one pours a fairly clear darker amber/golden color. It had a big off-white head with lots of lacing. There is a faint whiff of grapefruit and sour malts to the nose. The taste is fairly typical of this style. It was slightly sour with hints of fruit. This was a decent example of the beer.